+++ /dev/null
-This file describes how to use the scripts included in this archive.
-Yes, it desperately needs updating and expansion.
-
-corrtohtml.pl: translates the standard Project Aon correction report
-format into HTML corresponding to the changes log used with the
-Editor's Companion.
-
- corrtohtml.pl [correctionFile1 [correctionFile2 . . .]]
-
-create-css.pl: used by gbtoxhtml.pl to create a CSS file for use by
-the XHTML files.
-
- [not used from the command line]
-
-create-css-xhtml-single.pl: used by gbtoxhtml-single.pl to create a
-CSS file for use by the single file version of the XHTML.
-
- [not used from the command line]
-
-create-pdacss.pl: used by gbtopdaxhtml.pl to create a CSS file for
-use by the PDA version of the XHTML.
-
- [not used from the command line]
-
-frontfilter.pl: filters frontmatter files for links and common
-characters.
-
- frontfilter.pl frontmatterFile1 [frontmatterFile2 . . .]
-
-gbfixencoding.pl: interactively fix encoding errors in gamebook XML
- (requires ANSI escape sequences - tested on CYGWIN)
-
- gbfixencoding.pl inputXML outputXML
-
-gbfixquotes.pl: interactively encode quotation marks
- (requires ANSI escape sequences - tested on CYGWIN)
-
- gbfixquotes.pl inputXML outputXML
-
-gblint.pl: find common errors in gamebook XML - does not validate XML
-
- gblint.pl inputXML > errorList
- -s LINES skip first LINES
- -e MAX_ERRORS
-
-gbtodot.pl: converts an XML file to DOT graph representation of the
-choices.
-
- gbtodot.pl inputXML outputDOT baseURL
-
-gbtolatex.pl: creates a LaTeX file for conversion to PDF using
-pdflatex.
-
- gbtolatex.pl bookCode
-
-gbtopdaxhtml.pl: creates simplified XHTML for use by PDA utilities.
-
- gbtopdaxhtml.pl bookCode
-
-gbtopml.pl: creates PML version of the XML.
-
- gbtopml.pl bookCode
-
-gbtoxhtml.pl: processes an XML file into XHTML.
-
- gbtoxhtml.pl bookCode
-
-gbtoxhtml-all.pl: creates all of the books in XHTML. Uses
-gbtoxhtml.pl.
-
- gbtoxhtml-all.pl
-
-gbtoxhtml-single.pl: creates a single XHTML file.
-
- gbtoxhtml-single.pl bookCode
-
-mergecorrhtml.pl: merges correction log HTML into a preexisting file.
-
- mergecorrhtml.pl [options] inputHTML [correctionFiles]
- -b bookCode
- -u include corrections with unspecified title
-
-sortcorrhtml.pl: sorts correction log HTML into book order.
-
- sortcorrhtml.pl [correctionFiles]
-
-xmlize.pl: converts the proofread text format into a gamebook XML file.
-
- xmlize.pl numberOfSections
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-#
-# addcorr.pl
-#
-# addcorr.pl [inputCorrections HTMLfile(s)]
-#
-# Combines the operations of corrtohtml.pl, sortcorrhtml.pl, and
-# mergecorrhtml.pl into one simple command line. Anything that needs
-# to do anything more complex than this should use the three utilities
-# separately.
-#
-# The book code will be obtained from the input HTML filename. E.g.
-# 01fftd-changes.html provides the book code 01fftd. If for some reason
-# the input HTML filename doesn't hold the book code in the first
-# characters before the hyphen, use the three separate utilities.
-#
-# Anything that isn't specified on the command line will be prompted for.
-#
-# This program uses the most used pattern of using these three utilities.
-#
-# corrtohtml.pl -v -b bookCode inputCorrections
-# | sortcorrhtml.pl -v -s -b bookCode
-# | mergecorrhtml.pl inputHTML
-# > outputHTML
-#
-# This utility also has the side effect of creating a backup copy of
-# the inputHTML file.
-#
-######################################################################
-use strict;
-
-my $programName = "addcorr";
-my $usage = "$programName [inputCorrections HTMLfile(s)]\n";
-
-unless( -d $ENV{AONPATH} ) { die "\$AONPATH environment variable doesn't point to a directory"; }
-
-my $convert = $ENV{AONPATH} . "/bin/corrtohtml.pl";
-die( "Cannot find executable file \"$convert\"" ) unless( -x $convert );
-my $sort = $ENV{AONPATH} . "/bin/sortcorrhtml.pl";
-die( "Cannot find executable file \"$sort\"" ) unless( -x $sort );
-my $merge = $ENV{AONPATH} . "/bin/mergecorrhtml.pl";
-die( "Cannot find executable file \"$merge\"" ) unless( -x $merge );
-my $copy = "/bin/cp";
-die( "Cannot find executable file \"$copy\"" ) unless( -x $copy );
-
-my $optsProcessed = 0;
-my $bookCode = "";
-my $inCorr = "";
-my $inHTML = "";
-my $outHTML = "";
-my $verbose = 0;
-
-my %books = (
- '01fftd' => 1,
- '02fotw' => 1,
- '03tcok' => 1,
- '04tcod' => 1,
- '05sots' => 1,
- '06tkot' => 1,
- '07cd' => 1,
- '08tjoh' => 1,
- '09tcof' => 1,
- '10tdot' => 1,
- '11tpot' => 1,
- '12tmod' => 1,
- '13tplor' => 1,
- '14tcok' => 1,
- '15tdc' => 1,
- '16tlov' => 1,
- '17tdoi' => 1,
- '18dotd' => 1,
- '19wb' => 1,
- '20tcon' => 1,
- '21votm' => 1,
- '22tbos' => 1,
- '23mh' => 1,
- '24rw' => 1,
- '25totw' => 1,
- '26tfobm' => 1,
- '27v' => 1,
- '28thos' => 1,
- '01gstw' => 1,
- '02tfc' => 1,
- '03btng' => 1,
- '04wotw' => 1,
- '01hh' => 1,
- '02smr' => 1,
- '03toz' => 1,
- '04cc' => 1,
- 'tmc' => 1,
- 'rh' => 1
-);
-
-######################################################################
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 && not $optsProcessed ) {
- my $commandLineItem = shift @ARGV;
- if( $commandLineItem eq "--help" ) {
- print $usage and exit;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-v" ) {
- $verbose = 1;
- }
- else {
- unshift @ARGV, $commandLineItem;
- $optsProcessed = 1;
- }
-}
-
-if( $#ARGV > -1 ) {
- $inCorr = shift @ARGV or die "Couldn't get input corrections\n$usage";
- $inHTML = shift @ARGV or die "Couldn't get input HTML\n$usage";
-}
-else {
- while( $inCorr eq "" ) {
- print "Corrections File: ";
- $inCorr = <>;
- chomp( $inCorr );
- }
- while( $inHTML eq "" ) {
- print "Input HTML File: ";
- $inHTML = <>;
- chomp( $inHTML );
- }
-}
-
-while( $inHTML ne "" ) {
- die( "Cannot find corrections file \"$inCorr\"" ) unless( -f $inCorr );
- die( "Cannot read corrections file \"$inCorr\"" ) unless( -r $inCorr );
- die( "Cannot find HTML file \"$inHTML\"" ) unless( -f $inHTML );
- die( "Cannot read HTML file \"$inHTML\"" ) unless( -r $inHTML );
- die( "Cannot write to HTML file \"$inHTML\"" ) if( -f $inHTML && ! -w $inHTML );
-
- $bookCode = $inHTML;
- $bookCode =~ s{^([[:lower:][:digit:]]+)-.*$}{$1};
- die( "Unknown book code \"$bookCode\" (obtained from \"$inHTML\")" ) unless( exists $books{ $bookCode } );
-
- print "Bookcode: $bookCode\n" if( $verbose );
- # leave backup untouched while putting output in original filename
- print qx{$copy $inHTML $inHTML.backup};
- $outHTML = $inHTML;
- $inHTML = "$inHTML.backup";
-
- print qx{ $convert -v -b $bookCode $inCorr | $sort -v -s -b $bookCode | $merge $inHTML >$outHTML };
-
- $inHTML = "";
- $inHTML = shift @ARGV if( $#ARGV > -1 );
-}
+++ /dev/null
-;;; aon.el --- utilities for implementing Project Aon errata
-
-;; Copyright (C) 2003, 2004, 2005 Thomas Wolmer & Project Aon
-
-;; Author: Thomas Wolmer <thomas@powerpuff.org>
-;; Created: 17 Aug 2003
-;; Version: 0.13
-;; Keywords: aon
-
-;;; Commentary:
-
-;; This code provides support for implementing errata in the XML files
-;; Project Aon uses as "single sources" for the books it publishes. For
-;; more information on Project Aon, see http://www.projectaon.org/.
-
-;;; Change Log:
-
-;; 2003-08-17: 0.01: First nicely formatted version.
-;; 2003-08-24: 0.02: Fixed bugs in aon-find-errata-entry and aon-fix-markup,
-;; implemented aon-errata-jump and support functions.
-;; 2003-08-31: 0.03: Added default section id and title, and modified
-;; aon-get-sect-id and aon-get-sect-title, so that errata
-;; in the blurb gets listed correctly. Fixed some major
-;; problems in aon-errata-replace-all.
-;; 2003-09-07: 0.04: Improved usability: aon-errata-replace[-all] presents
-;; better prompt and a default text, and checks for "same"
-;; and null replacements. aon-errata-add also checks null
-;; input. All four user functions take an optional comment.
-;; 2003-09-14: 0.05: Now saves all input to the interactive functions to avoid
-;; losing them if the user changes the selection/point while
-;; answering the interactive questions. Fixed bug in
-;; aon-errata-add which asked you for a comment twice.
-;; Extended aon-fix-markup.
-;; 2003-10-12: 0.06: XEmacs does not put mouse-selected region in kill ring by
-;; default and does not have match-string-no-properties.
-;; Oops. Now things work in XEmacs, but regressions tests
-;; with GNU Emacs should probably be done too.
-;; 2003-10-31: 0.07: Used defconst to define some of the constants.
-;; 2003-11-12: 0.08: Flesh out the aon-nonindexed-sects definition
-;; 2004-05-09: 0.09: Fixed too greedy anchor tag regexp in aon-fix-markup &
-;; added more 04wotw sections to aon-nonindexed-sects
-;; 2005-02-05: 0.10: Added a function for inserting large illustrations
-;; 2005-05-06: 0.11: Added a function for inserting inline illustrations
-;; 2005-05-23: 0.12: Fixed bug in aon-re-get-errata-entry-id.
-;; 2005-05-29: 0.13: Introduced full footnote support.
-
-;; A slight limitation: We can only handle one illustrator at a time.
-
-(defvar aon-illustrator-name "Paul Bonner"
- "*")
-(defvar aon-large-illustration-width "386"
- "*")
-
-
-;;; Code:
-
-(defconst aon-nonindexed-sects
- (list
- ;; kai disciplines
- "camflage" "hunting" "sixthsns" "tracking" "healing" "wepnskll" "wepnskll"
- "mndblst" "anmlknsp" "mindomtr"
- ;; magnakai disciplines
- "wpnmstry" "anmlctrl" "curing" "invsblty" "hntmstry" "pthmnshp" "psisurge"
- "psiscrn" "nexus" "dvnation" "lcbonus"
- ;; magnakai improved disciplines
- "primate" "tutelary" "prncpln" "mentora" "scion" "archmstr"
- ;; grandmaster disciplines
- "mksumary" "wpnmstry" "anmlmstr" "deliver" "assimila" "hntmstry" "pthmnshp"
- "kaisurge" "kaiscrn" "nexus" "gnosis" "magi" "alchemy"
- ;; grandmaster improved disciplines
- "guardian" "sunkght" "sunlord" "sunthane"
- ;; gs lesser magicks
- "lessmcks" "sorcery" "enchant" "elementl" "alchemy" "prophecy" "psycmncy"
- "evcation" "staff"
- ;; gs higher magicks
- "highmcks" "thamtrgy" "telergy" "physirgy" "theurgy" "visionry" "necrmncy"
- ;; general
- "toc" "credits" "howcarry" "howmuch" "howuse" "evasion" "smevazn" "errintro"
- "errerr" "primill" "secill")
- "These sections are ignored for errata entries; the enclosing section is
-used instead (unless it is also 'nonindexed').")
-
-(defconst aon-default-sect-id "title"
- "The default section to assign an erratum to if none is found.")
-(defconst aon-default-sect-title "Title Page"
- "The title of the 'default section' (see `aon-default-sect-id').")
-
-;; Commonly used search regexps
-(defconst aon-re-errerr-sect "<section.*id=\"errerr\".*>"
- "Regexp used to locate the start of the errata entry list.")
-(defconst aon-re-get-sect-id "<section.*id=\"\\(.+?\\)\".*>"
- "Regexp used to find the id of asection.")
-(defconst aon-re-get-errata-entry-id "<p>(<a idref=\"\\(.+?\\)\".*>)"
- "Regexp used to find the id of an errata list entry.") ; and footnotes too!
-(defconst aon-re-get-title "<title>\\(.+?\\)</title>"
- "Regexp used to find the title of a section.")
-(defconst aon-re-get-footnote-num
- "<footnote id=\".+?\" idref=\".+?-\\([0-9]+\\)\">"
- "Regexp used to locate the sequence number of a footnote.")
-
-;; The errata item texts (as templates to be fed to 'format')
-;; These are only (hardcoded) reader-visible texts inserted by this hack!
-;; TODO: rename these variabled. defconst?
-(setq replaceditemtext " Replaced <quote>%s</quote> with <quote>%s</quote>%s.")
-(setq addeditemtext " Added <quote>%s</quote>%s.")
-(setq deleteditemtext " Deleted <quote>%s</quote>%s.")
-(setq replacedallitemtext (concat " Replaced all occurrences of <quote>%s"
- "</quote> with <quote>%s</quote>%s."))
-
-;; TODO: an optional second argument should be where the search starts,
-;; instead of at the beginning of the file
-(defun aon-get-sect-pos (sect)
- "Returns the start position of the named section.
-Useful for comparing the order of sections."
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char (point-min))
- (re-search-forward (format "<section.*id=\"%s\".*>" sect) nil t)
- (match-beginning 0)))
-
-;; TODO: rewrite this property fetching stuff, it is way too inefficient
-
-(defun aon-get-sect-property (regexp)
- "Returns a property, as selected by regexp, of the current indexed section."
- (save-excursion
- ;; if we're in an ignored section, go to its beginning and repeat search
- (if (member (aon-get-unchecked-sect-id) aon-nonindexed-sects)
- (progn
- (search-backward "<section" nil t)
- (aon-get-sect-property regexp))
- (aon-get-unchecked-sect-property regexp))))
-
-(defun aon-get-unchecked-sect-property (regexp)
- "Returns a property, as selected by regexp, of the current section.
-Unlike aon-get-sect-property, it does not checked if it is indexed."
- (save-excursion
- (and (re-search-backward regexp nil t)
- ;;(match-string-no-properties 1)))) ; Doesn't work in XEmacs
- (match-string 1))))
-
-(defun aon-get-unchecked-sect-id ()
- "Returns the id of the current section.
-Unlike aon-get-sect-id, it does not check if it is indexed."
- (or (aon-get-unchecked-sect-property aon-re-get-sect-id)
- aon-default-sect-id)) ; workaround for the blurb and such
-
-(defun aon-get-sect-id ()
- "Returns the id of the current indexed section."
- (or (aon-get-sect-property aon-re-get-sect-id)
- aon-default-sect-id)) ; workaround for the blurb and such
-
-(defun aon-get-sect-title ()
- "Returns the title of the current indexed section."
- (if (string= (aon-get-sect-id) "title")
- aon-default-sect-title ; workaround for the blurb and such
- (aon-get-sect-property aon-re-get-title)))
-
-(defun aon-find-errata-entry ()
- "Finds the insertion position in the errata entry for the current section.
-If no errata entry exists, returns nil."
- (save-excursion
- (let ((id (aon-get-sect-id)))
- (re-search-forward aon-re-errerr-sect)
- ;; locate the end of the errata list so that we don't search too far and
- ;; start finding footnotes instead
- (when (search-forward (format "<p>(<a idref=\"%s\">" id)
- (save-excursion (search-forward "</section>"))
- t)
- (search-forward "</p>") ; place position last in entry
- (match-beginning 0)))))
-
-(defun aon-create-errata-entry ()
- "Creates an errata entry for the current section.
-Returns the errata item insertion point in the new entry."
- (interactive) ;; for testing only
- (setq newerrataentry (format "<p>(<a idref=\"%s\">%s</a>)</p>\n"
- (aon-get-sect-id) (aon-get-sect-title)))
- (save-excursion
- (aon-goto-new-errata-list-entry-pos (point))
- (insert newerrataentry)
- (search-backward "</p>")
- (indent-according-to-mode)
- (point))) ; goto insertion point and make it be returned
-
-;; This function is HORRIBLY slow due to the calls to aon-get-sect-pos
-(defun aon-goto-new-errata-list-entry-pos (sectpos)
- "Places the point at the position where a new errata entry shall be created."
- (re-search-forward aon-re-errerr-sect)
- (search-forward "<data>")
- (setq endoferrata (save-excursion
- (if (search-forward "</data>")
- (point)
- (error "Could not find the end of the errata list!"))))
- (while (let ((id (save-excursion
- (if (re-search-forward aon-re-get-errata-entry-id
- endoferrata
- t)
- ;;(match-string-no-properties 1) ; Boohoo XEmacs
- (match-string 1)
- "footnotz" ; hack warning! to avoid getting too far
- ))))
- (unless (setq thissectpos (aon-get-sect-pos id))
- (error "Section %s has an errata entry but does not exist!" id))
- (< thissectpos sectpos))
- (forward-line 1)))
-
-;; TODO: Figure out some way not to create an errata entry before we know that
-;; it will work OK. As it is now, an empty errata entry may be left behind
-;; if an error occurs. But maybe that's not a problem??
-(defun aon-insert-errata-entry (errataentry id)
- "Adds an errata item to the current indexed section's errata entry.
-An errata entry is created if it does not exist."
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char (or (aon-find-errata-entry) ; if it is not found...
- (aon-create-errata-entry))) ; ...create the entry
- (insert (aon-format-errata-item id errataentry))))
-
-(defun aon-format-errata-item (id errataentry)
- ""
- (format "<!--%s-ITEM-->%s<!--/%s-ITEM-->" id errataentry id))
-
-(defun aon-format-erratum (id newtext)
- ""
- (format "<!--%s-->%s<!--/%s-->" id newtext id))
-
-(defun aon-format-erratum-empty (id)
- ""
- (format "<!--%s/-->" id))
-
-(defun aon-errata-replace (beg end newtext oldtext &optional comment)
- "Replaces the current region and records the replacement."
- (interactive
- ;; save all positions and string as the user may change the selection!
- (let* ((xbeg (region-beginning))
- (xend (region-end))
- ;;(xoldtext (car kill-ring-yank-pointer)) ; Boohoo Xemacs
- (xoldtext (buffer-substring-no-properties xbeg xend))
- (xnewtext (read-string (format "Replace '%s' with: " xoldtext)
- xoldtext))
- (cmnt (read-string "Additional comment (optional): ")))
- (list xbeg xend xnewtext xoldtext cmnt)))
- (cond ((string= newtext "")
- (error "No replacement! To delete text, use 'aon-errata-delete'."))
- ((string= newtext oldtext)
- (error "The replacement is the same as the original!")))
- (let* ((id (aon-get-new-errata-id "RE"))
- (errataentry (format replaceditemtext
- (aon-fix-markup oldtext)
- (aon-fix-markup newtext)
- comment)))
- (kill-region beg end)
- (insert (aon-format-erratum id newtext))
- (aon-insert-errata-entry errataentry id)))
-
-(defun aon-errata-delete (beg end oldtext &optional comment)
- "Deletes the current region and records the deletion."
- (interactive
- ;; save all positions and string as the user may change the selection!
- (let* ((xbeg (region-beginning))
- (xend (region-end))
- ;;(xoldtext (car kill-ring-yank-pointer)) ; Boohoo Xemacs
- (xoldtext (buffer-substring-no-properties xbeg xend))
- (cmnt (read-string "Additional comment (optional): ")))
- (list xbeg xend xoldtext cmnt)))
- (let* ((id (aon-get-new-errata-id "DE"))
- (errataentry (format deleteditemtext
- (aon-fix-markup oldtext)
- comment)))
- (kill-region beg end)
- (insert (aon-format-erratum-empty id))
- (aon-insert-errata-entry errataentry id)))
-
-(defun aon-errata-add (pos newtext &optional comment)
- "Adds text in the current position and records the addition."
- (interactive
- (let ((xpos (point))
- (string (read-string "Insert text: "))
- (cmnt (read-string "Additional comment (optional): ")))
- (list xpos string cmnt)))
- (if (string= newtext "")
- (error "No text to add!"))
- (let* ((id (aon-get-new-errata-id "AD"))
- (errataentry (format addeditemtext
- (aon-fix-markup newtext)
- comment)))
- (insert (aon-format-erratum id newtext))
- (aon-insert-errata-entry errataentry id)))
-
-(defun aon-errata-replace-all (beg end newtext oldtext &optional comment)
- "Replaces all occurrences of the current region and records the replacements.
-Stretches all over one indexed section, so it might affect text before the
-selected region as well! It is NOT very intelligent about abstaining from
-replacing text in markup that should not be touch, so don't even think about
-replacing, say, 'class'."
- (interactive
- ;; save all positions and string as the user may change the selection!
- (let* ((xbeg (region-beginning))
- (xend (region-end))
- ;;(xoldtext (car kill-ring-yank-pointer)) ; Boohoo Xemacs
- (xoldtext (buffer-substring-no-properties xbeg xend))
- (xnewtext (read-string (format
- "Replace all occurrences of '%s' with: "
- xoldtext)
- xoldtext))
- (cmnt (read-string "Additional comment (optional): ")))
- (list xbeg xend xnewtext xoldtext cmnt)))
- (if (string= newtext oldtext)
- (error "The replacement text is the same as the original!"))
- (let* ((id (aon-get-new-errata-id "RA"))
- (errataentry (format replacedallitemtext
- (aon-fix-markup oldtext)
- (aon-fix-markup newtext)
- comment))
- (saved-case-fold-search case-fold-search))
- (save-excursion
- (aon-goto-sect-start)
- (forward-line 1) ; workaround to avoid matching this section start
- (setq sectend (aon-get-sect-end))
- (setq case-fold-search nil) ; No case folded false matches thank you
- (while (re-search-forward (format "[^\"]\\\(%s\\\)[^\"]" oldtext) sectend t)
- (replace-match (aon-format-erratum id newtext) t t nil 1))
- (setq case-fold-search saved-case-fold-search)) ; Reset case folding
- (aon-insert-errata-entry errataentry id)))
-
-;; SLOW!!! And doesn't need to be recursive. Rewrite.
-(defun aon-goto-sect-start ()
- "Places the point at the start of the current indexed section."
- (interactive) ; for test purposes
- (if (member (aon-get-unchecked-sect-id) aon-nonindexed-sects)
- (progn
- (search-backward "<section" nil t)
- (aon-goto-sect-start))
- (search-backward "<section" nil t)))
-
-(defun aon-get-sect-end ()
- "Returns the end position of this section."
- (let ((nextopensect (save-excursion
- (search-forward "<section")))
- (nextclosesect (save-excursion
- (search-forward "</section>"))))
- (if (< nextclosesect nextopensect)
- nextclosesect ; return the end of this section
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char nextopensect) ; place inside nested section
- (goto-char (aon-get-sect-end)) ; goto end of that section
- (aon-get-sect-end))))) ; continue search for this section's end
-
-(defun aon-get-new-errata-id (type)
- "Returns a new unique errata item id."
- (let ((id (format "ERRTAG-%s-%s" type (point))))
- (save-excursion
- (while (search-forward (format "%s-" id) nil t)
- (setq id (format "%s1" id)))) ; append '1' and try again
- id))
-
-(defun aon-fix-markup (string)
- "Converts some markup in text from section to fit in an errata item."
- ;; Quotes - assume it is single quotes, double must be handled manually
- (while (string-match "<quote>" string)
- (setq string (replace-match "&lsquot;" nil nil string)))
- (while (string-match "</quote>" string)
- (setq string (replace-match "&rsquot;" nil nil string)))
- ;; TODO: Except for tags that shall become entities, maybe the rest can be
- ;; handled by a general transformation?
- ;; Link texts
- (while (string-match "<link-text>" string)
- (setq string (replace-match "<!--link-text-->" nil nil string)))
- (while (string-match "</link-text>" string)
- (setq string (replace-match "<!--/link-text-->" nil nil string)))
- ;; idrefs and similar
- ;; TODO: a complete idref does not need to be replaced!
- (while (string-match "<\\(a .*?\\)>" string)
- (setq string (replace-match (format "<!--%s-->" (match-string 1 string))
- nil nil string)))
- (while (string-match "</a>" string)
- (setq string (replace-match "<!--/a-->" nil nil string))) string)
-
-;; (defun aon-refix-markup (string)
-;; "Converts some 'fixed' markup in an errata item text to fit in a section.
-;; To be used when an erratum is undone and the replaced or deleted text from
-;; an errata item shall be re-inserted in the section."
-;; (while (or (string-match "&lsquot;" string)
-;; (string-match "&ldquot;" string))
-;; (setq string (replace-match "<quote>" nil nil string)))
-;; (while (or (string-match "&rsquot;" string)
-;; (string-match "&rdquot;" string))
-;; (setq string (replace-match "</quote>" nil nil string)))
-;; string)
-
-(defun aon-locate-errata-item-start ()
- "Return the starting position of the errata block the point is in.
-Currently, the point may not be within a comment start or end tag.
-Returns an error message if the point is not within an errata tag or if
-the errata structure is corrupt."
- (save-excursion
- (let ((prevcommentend (save-excursion (search-backward "-->" nil t)))
- (prevcommentstart (save-excursion (search-backward "<!--" nil t)))
- (nextcommentend (save-excursion (search-forward "-->" nil t))))
- (unless (and prevcommentstart nextcommentend)
- (error "Point is not within an errata item!"))
- (goto-char prevcommentstart)
- (cond
- ;; if we are at the start of an opening tag, it is OK
- ((looking-at "<!--ERRTAG-..-[0-9]+\\(-ITEM\\)?-->")
- (point))
- ;; if we are at the start of a content-free tag, we must check that
- ;; we were not outside that tag when we started.
- ((looking-at "<!--ERRTAG-..-[0-9]+/-->")
- (if (> prevcommentend prevcommentstart)
- (error "Point is not within an errata item!")
- (point)))
- ;; if we are at the start of a closing tag, we must check that we were
- ;; not outside that tag when we started, and then find the opening tag
- ((looking-at "<!--/\\(ERRTAG-..-[0-9]+\\(-ITEM\\)?\\)-->")
- (if (> prevcommentend prevcommentstart)
- (error "Point is not within an errata item!")
- (search-backward (format "<!--%s-->" (match-string 1)))))
- ;; if the comment was not an errata tag
- (t (error "Point is not within an errata item!"))))))
-
-(defun aon-errata-jump ()
- "If the point is within tags, jump to the corresponding erratum/errata item.
-In the case of a \"replace all\" erratum, jumps to the first location."
- (interactive)
- (let ((pos
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char (aon-locate-errata-item-start)) ; inefficient!
- (cond ((looking-at "<!--\\(ERRTAG-..-[0-9]+\\)-ITEM-->")
- (goto-char (point-min))
- (re-search-forward (format "<!--%s/?-->" (match-string 1)))
- (match-beginning 0))
- ((looking-at "<!--\\(ERRTAG-..-[0-9]+\\)/?-->")
- (goto-char (point-min))
- (search-forward (format "<!--%s-ITEM-->" (match-string 1)))
- (match-beginning 0))
- (t (error "This code can not be reached!"))))))
- (if pos (goto-char pos)
- (error "This code can not be reached!")))) ; should have received error
-
-;; TODO: Make the illustration functions add entries in the illustrations list
-
-(defun aon-illustration-large (number height caption)
- "Adds a large illustration at the insertion point.
-The illustrations list is not updated (TBD)."
- (interactive
- (let ((xnum (read-string "Illustration number: "))
- (xheight (read-string "Pixel height: "))
- (xcaption (read-string "Caption: ")))
- (list xnum xheight xcaption)))
- (let ((startpos (point))
- (endpos (save-excursion
- (insert (format "<illustration class=\"float\">\n<meta>\n<creator>%s</creator>\n<description>%s</description>\n</meta>\n<instance class=\"html\" src=\"ill%s.gif\" width=\"%s\" height=\"%s\"/>\n<instance class=\"pdf\" src=\"ill%s.pdf\" width=\"%s\" height=\"%s\"/>\n</illustration>"
- aon-illustrator-name caption number
- aon-large-illustration-width height number
- aon-large-illustration-width height))
- (point))))
- (aon-indent-block startpos endpos)))
-
-(defun aon-illustration-inline (filename height)
- "Adds an inline illustration at the insertion point.
-The illustrations list is not updated (TBD)."
- (interactive
- (let ((xfilename (read-string "File name: "))
- (xheight (read-string "Pixel height: ")))
- (list xfilename xheight)))
- (let ((startpos (point))
- (endpos (save-excursion
- (insert (format "<illustration class=\"inline\">\n<meta>\n<creator>%s</creator>\n</meta>\n<instance class=\"html\" src=\"%s.gif\" width=\"%s\" height=\"%s\" mime-type=\"image/gif\" />\n</illustration>"
- aon-illustrator-name filename
- aon-large-illustration-width height))
- (point))))
- (aon-indent-block startpos endpos)))
-
-;; TODO: Create a method that takes a function which adds text, and then
-;; indents the added text. Now each caller of this function must add some
-;; codes to handle start and end positions.
-
-(defun aon-indent-block (startpos endpos)
- "Indents the text between startpos and endpos.
-The positions need not be start or end of lines. Leaves point at end of block."
- (dotimes (i (count-lines startpos endpos))
- (indent-according-to-mode)
- (forward-line 1)))
-
-;; TODO: Clean up the whole footnote code, it is a mess.
-
-(defun aon-footnote-add (pos text)
- "Adds a footnote at the current position.
-Note that the footnote text must contain all <p>aragraph tags, and that line
-breaks are not allowed."
- (interactive
- (let ((xpos (point))
- (xtext (read-string "Footnote text: ")))
- (list xpos xtext)))
- (if (string= text "")
- (error "No footnote text!"))
- (let ((tpos (string-match "<p>" text)))
- (unless (and tpos (= 0 tpos))
- (error "Footnotes must contain <p>aragraph start and end tags!")))
- (save-excursion
- (let*
- ((sectid (aon-get-sect-id))
- (fblockstart (aon-find-footnote-block sectid))
- (fnum (if fblockstart
- (aon-get-next-footnote-num fblockstart)
- 1))
- (fid (format "%s-%s" sectid fnum))
- (fentry
- (format "\n<footnote id=\"%s-foot\" idref=\"%s\">%s</footnote>"
- fid fid text))
- (fref
- (format "<a id=\"%s\" idref=\"%s-foot\" class=\"footnote\" />"
- fid fid))
- (fnth (1+ (aon-count-previous-footnotes sectid)))
- (flistref
- (format "(<a idref=\"%s\">%s</a>)" sectid (aon-get-sect-title)))
- (flistinsertpos
- (aon-find-footnote-list-insert-pos sectid flistref fnth)))
- ;; First insert errata list entry
- (goto-char flistinsertpos)
- (let ((startpos (point))
- (endpos (save-excursion
- (insert "\n" text)
- (point))))
- (aon-indent-block startpos endpos))
- (goto-char flistinsertpos)
- (search-forward "<p>") ; no line-end-position in xemacs
- (insert flistref " ")
- ;; Then errata ref
- (goto-char pos)
- (insert fref)
- ;; And last errata entry in section errata block (which may be created)
- (if fblockstart
- (progn ; block exists, go to the right position in it
- (goto-char fblockstart)
- (dotimes (i (1- fnth))
- (search-forward "</footnote>"
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char fblockstart)
- (search-forward "</footnotes>")))))
- (goto-char (aon-create-footnote-block sectid)))
- (let ((startpos (point))
- (endpos (save-excursion
- (insert fentry)
- (point))))
- (aon-indent-block startpos endpos)))))
-
-(defun aon-create-footnote-block (sect)
- "Creates a footnote block and returns insertion point."
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char (aon-get-sect-pos sect))
- (search-forward "</meta>")
- (save-excursion
- (let ((spos (point))
- (endpos (save-excursion
- (insert "\n\n<footnotes>\n</footnotes>")
- (point))))
- (aon-indent-block spos endpos)))
- (search-forward "<footnotes>")))
-
-(defun aon-find-footnote-block (sect)
- "Returns the start of the footnote block of the current section, or nil."
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char (aon-get-sect-pos sect))
- (search-forward "</meta>")
- (let*
- ((datastart (save-excursion
- (search-forward "<data>")))
- (footstart (save-excursion
- (search-forward "<footnotes>" datastart t))))
- footstart)))
-
-(defun aon-get-footnote-num (pos)
- "Return the numerical sequence number of the footnote on the current line.
-If there are no more footnotes defined here, it returns nil."
- (interactive "p")
- (let ((fend (save-excursion
- (search-forward "</footnotes>"))))
- (save-excursion
- (and
- (re-search-forward aon-re-get-footnote-num fend t)
- (string-to-number (match-string 1))))))
-
-(defun aon-get-next-footnote-num (pos)
- "Returns the next footnote id number.
-This will always be the previously highest number plus one."
- (let ((seq '()))
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char pos)
- (while (setq x (aon-get-footnote-num (point)))
- (setq seq (cons x seq))
- (search-forward "</footnote>")
- (forward-line 1)))
- (if seq
- (1+ (car (sort seq '>))) ; prior highest + 1
- 1))) ; the first
-
-(defun aon-count-previous-footnotes (sect)
- "Based on the current position, counts the number of footnotes before..."
- (save-excursion
- (let ((sectstart (aon-get-sect-pos sect))
- (count 0))
- (while (re-search-backward
- "<a.+?idref=\".+?-foot\".+?class=\"footnote\".*?/>" sectstart t)
- (setq count (1+ count)))
- count)))
-
-(defun aon-find-footnote-list-insert-pos (sect ref nth)
- ""
- (save-excursion
- (let ((flistsectpos (aon-get-sect-pos "footnotz")))
- (if (= nth 1)
- (aon-find-new-footnote-list-entry-pos (aon-get-sect-pos sect))
- (progn
- (goto-char flistsectpos)
- (dotimes (i (1- nth))
- (search-forward ref))
- (end-of-line)
- (point))))))
-
-;; TODO: This code is mostly copied from the errata code. Merge them?
-
-(defun aon-find-new-footnote-list-entry-pos (sectpos)
- "Return the position where a new footnote list entry shall be created."
- (save-excursion
- (goto-char (aon-get-sect-pos "footnotz"))
- (search-forward "<data>")
- (forward-line 1) ; pos is now on the line of the first <p> (if it exists)
- (let ((endofflist
- (save-excursion
- (if (search-forward "</data>")
- (point)
- (error "Could not find the end of the footnotes list!")))))
- (while (let ((id (save-excursion
- (if (re-search-forward aon-re-get-errata-entry-id
- endofflist
- t)
- (match-string 1)
- "illstrat" ; hack warning! to avoid getting too far
- ))))
- (unless (setq thissectpos (aon-get-sect-pos id))
- (error
- "Section %s has a footnote list entry, but does not exist!"
- id))
- (< thissectpos sectpos))
- (forward-line 1)))
- (forward-line -1)
- (end-of-line)
- (point)))
-
-(global-set-key "\C-cr" 'aon-errata-replace)
-(global-set-key "\C-cd" 'aon-errata-delete)
-(global-set-key "\C-ca" 'aon-errata-add)
-(global-set-key "\C-cR" 'aon-errata-replace-all)
-(global-set-key "\C-cj" 'aon-errata-jump)
-;;(global-set-key "\C-cu" 'aon-errata-revert)
-
-(global-set-key "\C-cl" 'aon-illustration-large)
-(global-set-key "\C-ci" 'aon-illustration-inline)
-
-(global-set-key "\C-cf" 'aon-footnote-add)
-
-;; Errata examples
-;; <!--ERRTAG-RE-123--> <!--/ERRTAG-RE-123-->
-;; <!--ERRTAG-DE-456/-->
-;; Errata item
-;; <!--ERRTAG-RE-123-ITEM--> <!--/ERRTAG-RE-123-ITEM-->
-;; RE - replace
-;; DE - delete
-;; AD - add
-;; RA - replace all
-
-;;; aon.el ends here
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-# This script parses the errata list of a book in XML form and tries to
-# locate the added or replaced strings in the sections where they are now
-# supposed to exist. Things that are not found by the simple errata list
-# parsing code are just skipped. Nesting frontmatter sections are also
-# skipped.
-
-# Old History:
-# 2005-08-23 Tried to improve handling of <link-text> tags
-# 2005-03-12 Treat &thinspace; correctly.
-# 2003-03-16 Fixed reporting of false positived due to <link-text> tags
-# 2003-03-15 First version.
-
-$xmlfile = shift @ARGV;
-$xmlfile || die("usage: $0 <xml file>\n");
-$invalid = shift @ARGV;
-$invalid && die("usage: $0 <xml file>\n");
-
-open(ERRATA, $xmlfile) || die("Cannot read input file $xmlfile\n");
-open(SECTIONS, $xmlfile) || die("Cannot read input file $xmlfile\n");
-
-while(<ERRATA>) { # find errata list
- last if m/<section.*id="errerr".*>/;
-}
-die("No errata section!? Aborting.\n") if eof(ERRATA);
-while(<ERRATA>) { # find start of actual list
- last if m/<data>/;
-}
-die("No data in the errata section!? Aborting.\n") if eof(ERRATA);
-
-print("No matches for these errata entries were found:\n");
-
-# Now pick each paragraph (= errata) line
-ERRATALOOP: while(<ERRATA>) {
- next unless m/^\s*<p>/; # no paragraph = not an errata line
- last if m|</data>|; # end of the errata list
- ($sect) = m|\(<a (?:id="\w+?" )?idref="(\w+?)">.*</a>\)|;
- @reps = m|<quote>.*?</quote> with <quote>(.*?)</quote>|g;
- @adds = m|[Aa]dded <quote>(.*?(?=</quote>))</quote>|g;
- next unless @reps || @adds;
-
- # Now find section and append all contents into one string
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # locate section
- last if m/<section.*id=\"$sect\">/;
- }
- die("Could not find section $sect!? (This might be because the errata\nentry for it is not placed in the correct section order.) Aborting.\n") if eof(SECTIONS);
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # locate data
- last if m/<data>/;
- }
- die("Could not find any data in $sect!? Aborting.\n") if eof(SECTIONS);
- $text = "";
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # grab all section contents
- last if m|</data>|;
- if (m/<section/) { # oh no, nested sections - we cannot handle this well
- seek(SECTIONS, -length(), 1); # give the next section a chance
- next ERRATALOOP; # give up on this section
- }
- # Before adding the text to the section blob, modify <link-text> tags
- # since they are commented out in the errata entries
- s|<(/?)link-text>|<!--${1}link-text-->|g;
- $text .= $_;
- }
- die("Could not find the end of $sect!? Aborting.\n") if eof(SECTIONS);
-
- # The replacement may contain &[lr][sd]quot; which in the sections are
- # <quote> thingies. Translate these. Also ignore &thinspace; first and
- # last in the replacements.
- # Refactor the duplicated code below some day!
- foreach $rep (@reps) {
- $rep =~ s/\&l[sd]quot;/<quote>/g;
- $rep =~ s/\&r[sd]quot;/<\/quote>/g;
- $rep =~ s/^\&thinspace;//g;
- $rep =~ s/\&thinspace;$//g;
- if ($text !~ m/\Q$rep\E/) {
- print("Replacement \"$rep\" in $sect\n");
- }
- }
- foreach $add (@adds) {
- $add =~ s/\&l[sd]quot;/<quote>/g;
- $add =~ s/\&r[sd]quot;/<\/quote>/g;
- $add =~ s/^\&thinspace;//g;
- $add =~ s/\&thinspace;$//g;
- if ($text !~ m/\Q$add\E/) {
- print("Addition \"$add\" in $sect\n");
- }
- }
-}
-print("Checking finished!\n");
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-# This script parses the illustrations list of a book in XML form and checks
-# that the referred sections contain an illustration of the correct type, and
-# that the section titles are correct.
-
-# $Id$
-
-# $Log$
-# Revision 1.1 2005/08/23 19:32:28 angantyr
-# First checked in version.
-#
-
-# Old History:
-# 2005-08-22 Implemented handling of multiple instances of an illustration
-# 2005-04-02 Fixed a bad regexp for section ids.
-# 2003-03-23 First version.
-
-
-($xmlfile = shift @ARGV) || die("usage: $0 <xml file>\n");
-shift @ARGV && die("usage: $0 <xml file>\n");
-
-foreach $illtype ("primill", "secill") {
- open(ILL, $xmlfile) || die("Cannot read input file $xmlfile\n");
- open(SECTIONS, $xmlfile) || die("Cannot read input file $xmlfile\n");
-
- while(<ILL>) { # find illustrations list
- last if (m/<section.*id="$illtype".*>/i);
- }
- die("No illustrations section!? Aborting.\n") if eof(ILL);
- while(<ILL>) { # find start of actual list
- last if m/<data>/;
- }
- die("No data in the illustrations section!? Aborting.\n")
- if eof(ILL);
- print("No matches for these $illtype entries were found:\n");
-
- $lastref = "";
- $repeated = 0;
- # Now pick each paragraph (= illustrations) line
- ILLLOOP: while(<ILL>) {
- last if m|</data>|; # end of the illustrations list
- next unless m/^\s*<li>/; # no list item = not an illustrations line
-
- @refpairs = m|<a idref="(\w*)">(.*?)</a>|g;
-
- $i = 0;
- REFLOOP: while((@refpairn = @refpairs[$i++, $i++]) && (($sect, $title) = @refpairn) && $sect && $title) {
- if ($lastref eq $sect) { # Multiple illustrations in one section
- seek(SECTIONS, 0, 0);
- $repeated++;
- }
- else {
- $repeated = 0;
- }
-
- # Now find section
- FINDSEC: foreach $tryagain (1, 0) {
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # locate section
- if (m/<section.*id="$sect">/) {
- ($class) = m/class="(\S+)"/;
- last FINDSEC; # Don't try again
- }
- }
-
- # Start over
- seek(SECTIONS, 0, 0);
- if ($tryagain) {
- print("$title ($sect) appears not to be in correct order!\n");
- }
- else {
- print("Could not find $title ($sect) at all!\n");
- next REFLOOP;
- }
- }
-
- $lastref = $sect;
-
- my $secttitle;
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # locate data
- if (m/<title>/) {
- my $sectnumber;
- ($sectnumber) = m|<title>(.+)</title>|;
- if ($class =~ m/numbered/i) {
- $secttitle = "Section $sectnumber"
- }
- else {
- $secttitle = $sectnumber;
- }
-
- print("Illustrations entry section name '$title' does not match the\nsection name '$secttitle' of section with id $sect!\n")
- if (("$secttitle" ne "$title") && ("$sectnumber" ne "$title"));
- last;
- }
- }
-
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # locate data
- last if m/<data>/;
- }
- die("Could not find any data in $title!? Aborting.\n") if eof(SECTIONS);
-
- $foundit = 0;
- while(<SECTIONS>) { # find the illustration
- last if m|</data>|;
- #if (m/<section/) { # oh no, nested sections - we cannot handle this well
- # seek(SECTIONS, -length(), 1); # give the next section a chance
- # next REFLOOP; # give up on this section
- #}
-
- $foundit++
- if ($illtype eq "primill" && m/<illustration>/ || # Map
- $illtype eq "primill" && m/<illustration.+class="float".*>/ || # Normal large
- $illtype eq "primill" && m/<illustration.+class="inline".*>/ || # Action Chart
- $illtype eq "secill" && m/<illustration.+class="inline".*>/ || # Normal small
- $illtype eq "secill" && m/<illustration.+class="accent".*>/); # In use still?
- }
- die("Could not find the end of $title!? Aborting.\n") if eof(SECTIONS);
- if (!$repeated && !$foundit) {
- print("$secttitle ($sect) does not contain any matching illustration!\n");
- }
- elsif ($repeated >= $foundit) {
- print("$secttitle ($sect) contains too few matching illustrations!\n");
- }
- } # REFLOOP
- if (@refpairs > 2) { # This illustration appears multiple times
- seek(SECTIONS, 0, 0); # Do not warn if next illustration is not in order
- }
- } # ILLOOP
- close(SECTIONS) || die("What's this?");
- close(ILL) || die("What's this?");
-}
-print("Checking finished!\n");
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-
-use strict;
-
-my $programName = 'corrtohtml';
-my $usage = "$programName [options] [inputFile [inputFile2 ...]]\n" .
- "\t-b bookCode convert unspecified corrections to this book\n" .
- "\t-o outputFile\n" .
- "\t-i editorsInitials\n" .
-
- "\t-s strips book information\n" .
- "\t-v verbose reporting\n";
-
-my $optsProcessed = 0;
-my $outFile = "";
-my $editorInitials = "";
-my $stripBookInfo = 0;
-my $verbose = 0;
-my $bookCode = "";
-my $bookCodeReport = "";
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 && not $optsProcessed ) {
- my $commandLineItem = shift @ARGV;
- if( $commandLineItem eq "-b" ) {
- $bookCode = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
- &validateBookCode( $bookCode ) or die( "Error ($programName): unrecognized bookcode on command line \"$bookCode\"" );
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-o" ) {
- $outFile = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-i" ) {
- $editorInitials = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-s" ) {
- $stripBookInfo = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-v" ) {
- $verbose = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "--help" ) {
- print $usage and exit;
- }
- else {
- unshift @ARGV, $commandLineItem;
- $optsProcessed = 1;
- }
-}
-
-my @lines = <>;
-my $document = "";
-my %sectionDocLookup = (
- '_unknown' => '_unknown',
- 'toc' => 'toc',
- 'title' => 'title',
- 'dedicate' => 'dedicate',
- 'acknwldg' => 'acknwldg',
- 'credits' => 'acknwldg',
- 'coming' => 'coming',
- 'tssf' => 'tssf',
- 'gamerulz' => 'gamerulz',
- 'discplnz' => 'discplnz',
- 'camflage' => 'discplnz',
- 'hunting' => 'discplnz',
- 'sixthsns' => 'discplnz',
- 'tracking' => 'discplnz',
- 'healing' => 'discplnz',
- 'wepnskll' => 'discplnz',
- 'mndshld' => 'discplnz',
- 'mndblst' => 'discplnz',
- 'anmlknsp' => 'discplnz',
- 'mindomtr' => 'discplnz',
- 'mksumary' => 'discplnz',
- 'anmlctrl' => 'discplnz',
- 'curing' => 'discplnz',
- 'invsblty' => 'discplnz',
- 'psisurge' => 'discplnz',
- 'psiscrn' => 'discplnz',
- 'dvnation' => 'discplnz',
- 'wpnmstry' => 'discplnz',
- 'anmlmstr' => 'discplnz',
- 'deliver' => 'discplnz',
- 'assimila' => 'discplnz',
- 'hntmstry' => 'discplnz',
- 'pthmnshp' => 'discplnz',
- 'kaisurge' => 'discplnz',
- 'kaiscrn' => 'discplnz',
- 'nexus' => 'discplnz',
- 'gnosis' => 'discplnz',
- 'magi' => 'discplnz',
- 'kalchemy' => 'discplnz',
- 'powers' => 'powers',
- 'lessmcks' => 'powers',
- 'alchemy' => 'powers',
- 'sorcery' => 'powers',
- 'enchant' => 'powers',
- 'elementl' => 'powers',
- 'prophecy' => 'powers',
- 'psycmncy' => 'powers',
- 'evcation' => 'powers',
- 'highmcks' => 'powers',
- 'thamtrgy' => 'powers',
- 'telergy' => 'powers',
- 'physirgy' => 'powers',
- 'theurgy' => 'powers',
- 'visionry' => 'powers',
- 'necrmncy' => 'powers',
- 'staff' => 'powers',
- 'moonston' => 'powers',
- 'equipmnt' => 'equipmnt',
- 'howcarry' => 'equipmnt',
- 'howmuch' => 'equipmnt',
- 'howuse' => 'equipmnt',
- 'cmbtrulz' => 'cmbtrulz',
- 'evasion' => 'cmbtrulz',
- 'lorecrcl' => 'lorecrcl',
- 'lcbonus' => 'lorecrcl',
- 'levels' => 'levels',
- 'primate' => 'levels',
- 'tutelary' => 'levels',
- 'mentora' => 'levels',
- 'scion' => 'levels',
- 'archmstr' => 'levels',
- 'prncpln' => 'levels',
- 'imprvdsc' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'guardian' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'sunkght' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'sunlord' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'kaiwisdm' => 'kaiwisdm',
- 'sage' => 'sage',
- 'numbered' => 'numbered',
- 'part1' => 'part1',
- 'part2' => 'part2',
- 'ill1' => 'ill1',
- 'ill2' => 'ill2',
- 'ill3' => 'ill3',
- 'ill4' => 'ill4',
- 'ill5' => 'ill5',
- 'ill6' => 'ill6',
- 'ill7' => 'ill7',
- 'ill8' => 'ill8',
- 'ill9' => 'ill9',
- 'ill10' => 'ill10',
- 'ill11' => 'ill11',
- 'ill12' => 'ill12',
- 'ill13' => 'ill13',
- 'ill14' => 'ill14',
- 'ill15' => 'ill15',
- 'ill16' => 'ill16',
- 'ill17' => 'ill17',
- 'ill18' => 'ill18',
- 'ill19' => 'ill19',
- 'ill20' => 'ill20',
- 'passing' => 'passing',
- 'map' => 'map',
- 'action' => 'action',
- 'crsumary' => 'crsumary',
- 'smevazn' => 'crsumary',
- 'crtable' => 'crtable',
- 'random' => 'random',
- 'errata' => 'errata',
- 'errintro' => 'errata',
- 'errerr' => 'errata',
- 'footnotz' => 'footnotz',
- 'illstrat' => 'illstrat',
- 'primill' => 'illstrat',
- 'secill' => 'illstrat',
- 'license' => 'license',
- 'lic-pre' => 'license',
- 'lic-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-2' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-3' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-4' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-5' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-6' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-7' => 'license',
- 'lic-2' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-2' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-3' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-4' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-5' => 'license',
- 'lic-3' => 'license',
- 'lic-3-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-3-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-4' => 'license',
- 'lic-4-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-5' => 'license',
- 'lic-5-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-6' => 'license',
- 'lic-6-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-6-1' => 'license'
-);
-
-my %sectionTitleLookup = (
- '_unknown' => '_unknown',
- 'toc' => 'Table of Contents',
- 'title' => 'Title Page',
- 'dedicate' => 'Dedication',
- 'acknwldg' => 'Acknowledgements',
- 'coming' => 'Of the Coming of Grey Star',
- 'tssf' => 'The Story So Far . . .',
- 'gamerulz' => 'The Game Rules',
- 'discplnz' => '. . . Disciplines',
- 'powers' => 'Magical Powers',
- 'equipmnt' => 'Equipment',
- 'cmbtrulz' => 'Rules for Combat',
- 'lorecrcl' => 'Lore-circles of the Magnakai',
- 'levels' => 'Levels of . . . Mastery',
- 'imprvdsc' => 'Improved . . . Disciplines',
- 'kaiwisdm' => '. . . Wisdom',
- 'sage' => 'Sage Advice',
- 'numbered' => 'Numbered Sections',
- 'part1' => 'Part I',
- 'part2' => 'Part II',
- 'ill1' => 'Illustration 1',
- 'ill2' => 'Illustration 2',
- 'ill3' => 'Illustration 3',
- 'ill4' => 'Illustration 4',
- 'ill5' => 'Illustration 5',
- 'ill6' => 'Illustration 6',
- 'ill7' => 'Illustration 7',
- 'ill8' => 'Illustration 8',
- 'ill9' => 'Illustration 9',
- 'ill10' => 'Illustration 10',
- 'ill11' => 'Illustration 11',
- 'ill12' => 'Illustration 12',
- 'ill13' => 'Illustration 13',
- 'ill14' => 'Illustration 14',
- 'ill15' => 'Illustration 15',
- 'ill16' => 'Illustration 16',
- 'ill17' => 'Illustration 17',
- 'ill18' => 'Illustration 18',
- 'ill19' => 'Illustration 19',
- 'ill20' => 'Illustration 20',
- 'passing' => 'Passing of the Shianti',
- 'map' => 'map',
- 'action' => 'Action Chart',
- 'crsumary' => 'Combat Rules Summary',
- 'crtable' => 'Combat Results Table',
- 'random' => 'Random Number Table',
- 'errata' => 'Errata',
- 'footnotz' => 'Footnotes',
- 'illstrat' => 'Table of Illustrations',
- 'license' => 'Project Aon License'
-);
-
-if( $bookCode ne "" ) {
- $bookCodeReport = " [$bookCode]";
-}
-################################################################################
-# Normalize Lines and Whitespace
-
-foreach my $line (@lines) {
- $line =~ tr/\n\r/ /;
- $document .= $line;
-}
-$document =~ s/[[:space:]]{2,}/ /g; # collapse spaces
-$document =~ s/(\(er?\)|\(ne?\)|\(ft?\)|\(ce\)|\(cn\)|\(cf\)|\(re\)|\(rn\)|\(rf\)|\(\?\??\))/\n$1/g; # break lines
-$document =~ s/^[[:space:]]*\n//g; # remove blank lines
-@lines = split( m/ *\n/, $document );
-
-################################################################################
-# Translate
-
-my $commentRegex = qr{\[[[:space:]]*(([^[:space:]:]*)[[:space:]]*:)?[[:space:]]*([^]]*)\]};
-my $sectionNumberRegex = qr{^\(([^)][^)])*\) # type: $1
- [[:space:]]*
- ([[:digit:]]*[[:alpha:]]+[[:space:]]+)? # book: $2
- ([[:digit:]]+) # section: $3
- (?:[[:space:]]+
- \#([[:digit:]]+))? # issue: $4
- [[:space:]]*:
- (.*?) # correction: $5
- [[:space:]]*$}x;
-my $sectionIDRegex = qr{^\(([^)][^)])*\) # type: $1
- [[:space:]]*
- ([[:digit:]]*[[:alpha:]]+[[:space:]]+)? # book: $2
- ([^:[:space:]]*) # section: $3
- (?:[[:space:]]+
- \#([[:digit:]]+))? # issue: $4
- [[:space:]]*:
- (.*?) # correction: $5
- [[:space:]]*$}x;
-
-foreach my $line (@lines) {
- $line =~ s{&} {&}g; # escape for HTML
- $line =~ s{<} {<}g; # "
- $line =~ s{>} {>}g; # "
-
- while( $line =~ m{$commentRegex} ) {
- if( (not defined( $2 )) || $2 eq "" ) {
- $line =~ s{$commentRegex}{<div class="cm $editorInitials">$3</div>};
- } else {
- my $initials = lc( $2 );
- $line =~ s{$commentRegex}{<div class="cm $initials">$3</div>};
- }
- if( $3 =~ m/^[[:space:]]*$/ ) {
- warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: empty comment found\n" );
- }
- }
-
- if( $line =~ m{$sectionNumberRegex} ) {
- my $book = "";
- if( defined $2 ) {
- $book = lc( $2 );
- &validateBookCode( $book ) or die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: unrecognized bookcode in input corrections \"$book\"" );
- }
- elsif( $bookCode ) {
- $book = $bookCode;
- warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: entry with unspecified book coerced to $bookCode: $line\n" );
- }
-
- my $issue = "";
- if( defined $4 ) { $issue = $4; }
- my $caseFoldSection = lc( $3 );
- if( $book ne "" && not $stripBookInfo ) {
- $line =~ s{$sectionNumberRegex}{<div class="$1"><!-- $book--><a href="sect$caseFoldSection.htm">$caseFoldSection</a> #$issue:$5</div>\n};
- }
- else {
- $line =~ s{$sectionNumberRegex}{<div class="$1"><a href="sect$caseFoldSection.htm">$caseFoldSection</a> #$issue:$5</div>\n};
- }
- }
- elsif( $line =~ m{$sectionIDRegex} ) {
- my $caseFoldSection = lc( $3 );
- exists $sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection} && defined $sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}
- or die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: don\'t understand section ID \"$caseFoldSection\" in $line" );
- exists $sectionTitleLookup{$sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}} && defined $sectionTitleLookup{$sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}}
- or die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: section ID \"$caseFoldSection\" doesn\'t have an associated title" );
-
- my $book = "";
- if( defined $2 ) {
- $book = $2;
- chomp( $book );
- &validateBookCode( $book ) or die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: unrecognized bookcode in input corrections \"$book\"" );
- }
- elsif( $bookCode ) {
- $book = $bookCode;
- warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: entry with unspecified book coerced to $bookCode: $line\n" );
- }
-
- my $issue = "";
- if( defined $4 ) { $issue = $4; }
-
- if( $book ne "" && not $stripBookInfo ) {
- $line =~ s{$sectionIDRegex}{<div class="$1"><!-- $book--><a href="$sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}.htm">$sectionTitleLookup{$sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}}</a> \#$issue:$5</div>\n};
- }
- else {
- $line =~ s{$sectionIDRegex}{<div class="$1"><a href="$sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}.htm">$sectionTitleLookup{$sectionDocLookup{$caseFoldSection}}</a> \#$issue:$5</div>\n};
- }
- }
- else {
- die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: unable to parse line: $line\n" );
- }
-
- $line =~ s{class="\?\??"} {class="u"};
- $line =~ s{class="er"} {class="e"};
- $line =~ s{class="ne"} {class="n"};
- $line =~ s{class="ft"} {class="f"};
-
- if( $line =~ m/(\(.{,4}\))|(\[.{,4}\])/ ) {
- warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: possible malformed correction entry: $line\n" );
- }
-}
-
-################################################################################
-# Output Results
-
-if( $outFile ne "" ) {
- open( OUTFILE, ">$outFile" ) or die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: Unable to open output file \"$outFile\" for writing: $!" );
- print OUTFILE @lines;
- close( OUTFILE );
-}
-else {
- print @lines;
-}
-
-################################################################################
-# Subroutines
-
-sub validateBookCode {
- my ($bookCode) = @_;
-
- # bookCode typically has some space after real data
- $bookCode =~ s{[[:space:]]+}{}g;
-
- my %books = (
- '01fftd' => 1,
- '02fotw' => 1,
- '03tcok' => 1,
- '04tcod' => 1,
- '05sots' => 1,
- '06tkot' => 1,
- '07cd' => 1,
- '08tjoh' => 1,
- '09tcof' => 1,
- '10tdot' => 1,
- '11tpot' => 1,
- '12tmod' => 1,
- '13tplor' => 1,
- '14tcok' => 1,
- '15tdc' => 1,
- '16tlov' => 1,
- '17tdoi' => 1,
- '18dotd' => 1,
- '19wb' => 1,
- '20tcon' => 1,
- '21votm' => 1,
- '22tbos' => 1,
- '23mh' => 1,
- '24rw' => 1,
- '25totw' => 1,
- '26tfobm' => 1,
- '27v' => 1,
- '28thos' => 1,
- '01gstw' => 1,
- '02tfc' => 1,
- '03btng' => 1,
- '04wotw' => 1,
- '01hh' => 1,
- '02smr' => 1,
- '03toz' => 1,
- '04cc' => 1,
- 'tmc' => 1,
- 'rh' => 1
- );
-
- return exists $books{ $bookCode };
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/local/bin/perl -w
-
-# See the following about font-size-adjust:
-# http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-CSS2/fonts.html#font-size-props
-
-#"Verdana, Arial, Helvetica", "Georgia, Times New Roman, Times", "Courier New, Courier".
-
-#Commonly-installed typefaces on Macs and PCs
-# (Windows then Mac)
-#
-# Serif:
-# Georgia
-# MS Serif
-# Book Antiqua
-# Times New Roman
-#
-# Georgia*
-# New York
-# Palatino
-# Times
-#
-# Sans-serif:
-# Verdana
-# MS Sans Serif
-# Arial
-# Trebuchet
-#
-# Verdana*
-# Geneva
-# Helvetica
-# Chicago
-#
-# Monospace:
-# Courier New
-# Courier
-
-( $bookPath, $textColor, $backgroundColor, $scrollbarBaseColor, $scrollbarTrackColor, $scrollbarArrowColor, $linkColor, $alinkColor, $hlinkBackgroundColor, $hlinkColor ) = @ARGV;
-
-open( CSSFILE, ">${bookPath}/main.css" ) or die( "Can\'t output to file: \"${bookPath}/main.css\"\n\t$!" );
-
-print CSSFILE << "(END OF CSS)";
-html {
- /* scrollbar properties are currently IE specific (24 Aug 2002) */
- scrollbar-base-color: ${scrollbarBaseColor};
- scrollbar-track-color: ${scrollbarTrackColor};
- scrollbar-arrow-color: ${scrollbarArrowColor};
-}
-
-html, body {
- background-color: ${backgroundColor};
- color: ${textColor};
- font-family: Souvenir, Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;
-}
-
-#footnotes {
- font-size: 0.8em;
-}
-
-hr { margin-left: 0px; }
-
-ul.unbulleted { list-style-type: none }
-/* ul { list-style-type: none } */
-
-b { font-weight: bold }
-
-h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6 {
- margin-top: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- padding: 0px;
- text-align: left;
-}
-
-div.numbered h3 {
- text-align: center;
-}
-
-div.glossary h3 {
- text-align: center;
-}
-
-:link:focus, :visited:focus {
-}
-
-:link, :visited {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${linkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-:link:hover, :visited:hover {
- background-color: ${hlinkBackgroundColor};
- color: ${hlinkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-:link:active, :visited:active {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${alinkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-dt {
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.navigation, .signpost, .illustraion, .caption, .center {
- text-align: center;
-}
-
-.author {
- text-align: center;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.dedication {
- text-align: center;
- font-style: italic;
- font-weight: bold;
- margin-top: 15ex;
- margin-bottom: 15ex;
-}
-
-.copyright {
- text-align: center;
- font-style: italic;
-}
-
-.choice, .combat {
- text-align: left;
- margin-left: 15px;
-}
-
-.smallcaps {
- font-size: 0.8em;
-}
-
-(END OF CSS)
-
-close CSSFILE;
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-
-# See the following about font-size-adjust:
-# http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-CSS2/fonts.html#font-size-props
-
-#"Verdana, Arial, Helvetica", "Georgia, Times New Roman, Times", "Courier New, Courier".
-
-#Commonly-installed typefaces on Macs and PCs
-# (Windows then Mac)
-#
-# Serif:
-# Georgia
-# MS Serif
-# Book Antiqua
-# Times New Roman
-#
-# Georgia*
-# New York
-# Palatino
-# Times
-#
-# Sans-serif:
-# Verdana
-# MS Sans Serif
-# Arial
-# Trebuchet
-#
-# Verdana*
-# Geneva
-# Helvetica
-# Chicago
-#
-# Monospace:
-# Courier New
-# Courier
-
-#( $bookPath, $textColor, $backgroundColor, $scrollbarBaseColor, $scrollbarTrackColor, $scrollbarArrowColor, $linkColor, $alinkColor, $hlinkBackgroundColor, $hlinkColor, $hlinkLightBorderColor, $hlinkDarkBorderColor ) = @ARGV;
-
-( $bookPath, $textColor, $backgroundColor, $linkColor, $alinkColor, $hlinkBackgroundColor, $hlinkColor ) = @ARGV;
-
-open( CSSFILE, ">${bookPath}/main.css" ) or die( "Can\'t output to file: \"${bookPath}/main.css\"\n\t$!" );
-
-print CSSFILE << "(END OF CSS)";
-\@import url( more.css );
-
-html, body {
- background-color: ${backgroundColor};
- color: ${textColor};
- font-family: Souvenir, Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif;
-}
-
-#title {
- position: absolute;
- top: 0px;
- left: 0px;
- width: 550px;
- height: 100px;
- padding: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- margin: 0px;
-}
-
-#body {
- position: absolute;
- top: 95px;
- left: 100px;
- width: 450px;
- padding: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- margin: 0px;
-}
-
-#footnotes {
- font-size: 0.8em;
-}
-
-hr { margin-left: 0px; }
-
-p, ol, ul, dl, blockquote { text-align: justify }
-
-ul.unbulleted { list-style-type: none }
-
-b { font-weight: bold }
-
-h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6 {
- margin-top: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- padding: 0px;
- clear: left;
- text-align: left;
-}
-
-:link:focus, :visited:focus {
-}
-
-:link, :visited {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${linkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-:link:hover, :visited:hover {
- background-color: ${hlinkBackgroundColor};
- color: ${hlinkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.navigation :link:hover, .navigation :visited:hover {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${hlinkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-:link:active, :visited:active {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${alinkColor};
- text-decoration: none;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-dt {
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.navigation, .signpost, .illustraion, .caption, .center {
- text-align: center;
-}
-
-.author {
- text-align: center;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.dedication {
- text-align: center;
- font-style: italic;
- font-weight: bold;
- margin-top: 15ex;
- margin-bottom: 15ex;
-}
-
-.copyright {
- text-align: center;
- font-style: italic;
-}
-
-.choice, .combat {
- text-align: left;
- margin-left: 15px;
- width: 435px;
-}
-
-.smallcaps {
- font-size: 0.8em;
-}
-(END OF CSS)
-
-close CSSFILE;
-
-open( CSSFILE, ">${bookPath}/more.css" ) or die( "Can\'t output to file: \"${bookPath}/more.css\"\n\t$!" );
-
-print CSSFILE << "(END OF MORE CSS)";
-p {
- padding-top: 1px;
- padding-bottom: 1px;
-}
-
-div.numbered h3 {
- position: absolute;
- top: -56px;
- left: 404px;
- width: 39px;
- height: 18pt;
- margin: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- padding: 0px;
- font-size: 14pt;
- background-color: transparent;
- text-align: center;
- vertical-align: middle;
-}
-
-div.glossary h3 {
- position: absolute;
- top: -56px;
- left: 404px;
- width: 39px;
- height: 18pt;
- margin: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- padding: 0px;
- font-size: 14pt;
- background-color: transparent;
- text-align: center;
- vertical-align: middle;
-}
-
-img.accent {
- margin-top: 5px;
- margin-right: 10px;
- margin-bottom: 5px;
-}
-(END OF MORE CSS)
-
-close CSSFILE;
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/local/bin/perl -w
-
-( $bookPath, $textColor, $backgroundColor, $linkColor, $alinkColor ) = @ARGV;
-
-open( CSSFILE, ">${bookPath}/main.css" ) or die( "Can\'t output to file: \"${bookPath}/main.css\"\n\t$!" );
-
-print CSSFILE << "(END OF CSS)";
-html, body {
- background-color: ${backgroundColor};
- color: ${textColor};
- font-family: Souvenir, Times, serif;
-}
-
-#footnotes {
- font-size: 0.8em;
-}
-
-p, ol, ul, dl, blockquote { text-align: justify }
-
-ul.unbulleted { list-style-type: none }
-
-b { font-weight: bold }
-
-h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6 {
- margin-top: 0px;
- border: 0px none;
- padding: 0px;
- text-align: left;
-}
-
-:link:focus, :visited:focus {
-}
-
-:link, :visited {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${linkColor};
-/* text-decoration: none;*/
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-:link:hover, :visited:hover {
-}
-
-:link:active, :visited:active {
- background-color: transparent;
- color: ${alinkColor};
-/* text-decoration: none;*/
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-dt {
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.navigation, .signpost, .illustraion, .caption, .center {
- text-align: center;
-}
-
-.author {
- text-align: center;
- font-weight: bold;
-}
-
-.dedication {
- text-align: center;
- font-style: italic;
- font-weight: bold;
- margin-top: 15ex;
- margin-bottom: 15ex;
-}
-
-.copyright {
- text-align: center;
- font-style: italic;
-}
-
-.choice, .combat {
- text-align: left;
- margin-left: 5%;
-}
-
-.smallcaps {
- font-size: 0.8em;
-}
-
-(END OF CSS)
-
-close CSSFILE;
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl
-
-while( $ARGV[ 0 ] ) {
- $infile = shift @ARGV;
-
- @lines = ( );
- open( INFILE, "<$infile" ) or die "Bad input file \"$infile.\": $!";
- @lines = <INFILE>;
- close INFILE;
-
- foreach $line (@lines) {
- my $oldline = $line;
- $line =~ s/(\.\.\.|\.\s\.\s\.)/\&ellips\;/g;
- $line =~ tr/\t/ /;
- $line =~ s/\s{2,}/ /g;
- $line =~ s/\&\s/\&\; /g;
- $line =~ tr/\"\`\222\221/\'/;
- $line =~ s/(Random\sNumber\sTable)/<a idref=\"random\">$1<\/a>/gi;
- $line =~ s/(COMBAT\sSKILL|CLOSE\sCOMBAT\sSKILL|ENDURANCE|WILLPOWER|\bCS\b|\bEP\b)([^<])/<typ class="attribute">$1<\/typ>$2/g;
- $line =~ s/(Action\sCharts?)/<a idref=\"action\">$1<\/a>/gi;
- # \222 and \221 are some form of funky right and
- # left quotes not present in ascii (of course)
- $line =~ tr/\227/-/;
- # \227 is an em or en dash
-
- $line =~ s/^\s*(.*)\s*$/$1\n/;
- }
-
- print @lines;
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl
-
-while( <> ) {
- if( /"[^">]*&([^;]+);/ && $1 !~ /^link/ ) {
- warn "Entity $1 in attribute";
- }
- s{\&(apos|nbsp|iexcl|cent|pound|curren|yen|brvbar|sect|uml|copy|ordf|laquo|not|shy|reg|macr|deg|plusmn|sup2|sup3|acute|micro|para|middot|cedil|sup1|ordm|raquo|frac14|frac12|frac34|iquest|Agrave|Aacute|Acirc|Atilde|Auml|Aring|AElig|Ccedil|Egrave|Eacute|Ecirc|Euml|Igrave|Iacute|Icirc|Iuml|ETH|Ntilde|Ograve|Oacute|Ocirc|Otilde|Ouml|times|Oslash|Ugrave|Uacute|Ucirc|Uuml|Yacute|THORN|szlig|agrave|aacute|acirc|atilde|auml|aring|aelig|ccedil|egrave|eacute|ecirc|euml|igrave|iacute|icirc|iuml|eth|ntilde|ograve|oacute|ocirc|otilde|ouml|divide|oslash|ugrave|uacute|ucirc|uuml|yacute|thorn|yuml|ampersand|lsquot|rsquot|ldquot|rdquot|minus|endash|emdash|ellips|lellips|blankline|percent|thinspace|frac116|plus);}{<ch.$1/>}g;
-
- s{\240}{<ch.nbsp/>}g;
- s{\241}{<ch.iexcl/>}g;
- s{\242}{<ch.cent/>}g;
- s{\243}{<ch.pound/>}g;
- s{\244}{<ch.curren/>}g;
- s{\245}{<ch.yen/>}g;
- s{\246}{<ch.brvbar/>}g;
- s{\247}{<ch.sect/>}g;
- s{\250}{<ch.uml/>}g;
- s{\251}{<ch.copy/>}g;
- s{\252}{<ch.ordf/>}g;
- s{\253}{<ch.laquo/>}g;
- s{\254}{<ch.not/>}g;
- s{\255}{<ch.shy/>}g;
- s{\256}{<ch.reg/>}g;
- s{\257}{<ch.macr/>}g;
- s{\260}{<ch.deg/>}g;
- s{\261}{<ch.plusmn/>}g;
- s{\262}{<ch.sup2/>}g;
- s{\263}{<ch.sup3/>}g;
- s{\264}{<ch.acute/>}g;
- s{\265}{<ch.micro/>}g;
- s{\266}{<ch.para/>}g;
- s{\267}{<ch.middot/>}g;
- s{\270}{<ch.cedil/>}g;
- s{\271}{<ch.sup1/>}g;
- s{\272}{<ch.ordm/>}g;
- s{\273}{<ch.raquo/>}g;
- s{\274}{<ch.frac14/>}g;
- s{\275}{<ch.frac12/>}g;
- s{\276}{<ch.frac34/>}g;
- s{\277}{<ch.iquest/>}g;
- s{\300}{<ch.Agrave/>}g;
- s{\301}{<ch.Aacute/>}g;
- s{\302}{<ch.Acirc/>}g;
- s{\303}{<ch.Atilde/>}g;
- s{\304}{<ch.Auml/>}g;
- s{\305}{<ch.Aring/>}g;
- s{\306}{<ch.AElig/>}g;
- s{\307}{<ch.Ccedil/>}g;
- s{\310}{<ch.Egrave/>}g;
- s{\311}{<ch.Eacute/>}g;
- s{\312}{<ch.Ecirc/>}g;
- s{\313}{<ch.Euml/>}g;
- s{\314}{<ch.Igrave/>}g;
- s{\315}{<ch.Iacute/>}g;
- s{\316}{<ch.Icirc/>}g;
- s{\317}{<ch.Iuml/>}g;
- s{\320}{<ch.ETH/>}g;
- s{\321}{<ch.Ntilde/>}g;
- s{\322}{<ch.Ograve/>}g;
- s{\323}{<ch.Oacute/>}g;
- s{\324}{<ch.Ocirc/>}g;
- s{\325}{<ch.Otilde/>}g;
- s{\326}{<ch.Ouml/>}g;
- s{\327}{<ch.times/>}g;
- s{\330}{<ch.Oslash/>}g;
- s{\331}{<ch.Ugrave/>}g;
- s{\332}{<ch.Uacute/>}g;
- s{\333}{<ch.Ucirc/>}g;
- s{\334}{<ch.Uuml/>}g;
- s{\335}{<ch.Yacute/>}g;
- s{\336}{<ch.THORN/>}g;
- s{\337}{<ch.szlig/>}g;
- s{\340}{<ch.agrave/>}g;
- s{\341}{<ch.aacute/>}g;
- s{\342}{<ch.acirc/>}g;
- s{\343}{<ch.atilde/>}g;
- s{\344}{<ch.auml/>}g;
- s{\345}{<ch.aring/>}g;
- s{\346}{<ch.aelig/>}g;
- s{\347}{<ch.ccedil/>}g;
- s{\350}{<ch.egrave/>}g;
- s{\351}{<ch.eacute/>}g;
- s{\352}{<ch.ecirc/>}g;
- s{\353}{<ch.euml/>}g;
- s{\354}{<ch.igrave/>}g;
- s{\355}{<ch.iacute/>}g;
- s{\356}{<ch.icirc/>}g;
- s{\357}{<ch.iuml/>}g;
- s{\360}{<ch.eth/>}g;
- s{\361}{<ch.ntilde/>}g;
- s{\362}{<ch.ograve/>}g;
- s{\363}{<ch.oacute/>}g;
- s{\364}{<ch.ocirc/>}g;
- s{\365}{<ch.otilde/>}g;
- s{\366}{<ch.ouml/>}g;
- s{\367}{<ch.divide/>}g;
- s{\370}{<ch.oslash/>}g;
- s{\371}{<ch.ugrave/>}g;
- s{\372}{<ch.uacute/>}g;
- s{\373}{<ch.ucirc/>}g;
- s{\374}{<ch.uuml/>}g;
- s{\375}{<ch.yacute/>}g;
- s{\376}{<ch.thorn/>}g;
- s{\377}{<ch.yuml/>}g;
-
- print;
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -Tw
-#
-# Uses ANSI color escapes to highlight text and for cursor movement
-#
-
-use strict;
-
-my $usage = "Usage:\n\tgbfixquotes.pl INFILE OUTFILE\n";
-
-my $lineNumber = 1;
-
-my ($infile, $outfile);
-
-if( $#ARGV == 1 ) {
- $infile = shift @ARGV;
- $outfile = shift @ARGV;
-}
-else {
- die $usage;
-}
-
-if( $infile =~ m{(^.*$)} && -f $1 ) {
- open( INFILE, "<$1" ) or die "Error: unable to read from \"$infile\": $!\n";
-}
-else {
- die "Error: bad input file\n";
-}
-
-if( $outfile =~ m{(^.*$)} ) {
- open( OUTFILE, ">$1" ) or die "Error: unable to write to \"$outfile\": $!\n";
-}
-else {
- die "Error: bad output file\n";
-}
-
-while( my $line = <INFILE> ) {
- $line = &encodify( $line );
-
- print OUTFILE $line;
- ++$lineNumber;
-}
-
-close OUTFILE;
-close INFILE;
-
-################################################################################
-
-sub encodify {
- my ($line) = @_;
- my $modified = $line;
- my $replacements = 0;
-
- if( $modified =~ s{ ([[:space:]]) \& ([[:space:]]) }{$1<ch.ampersand/>$2}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ [[:space:]]+ - [[:space:]]+ }{<ch.emdash/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ (?<!\!) ([[:space:]])* -- ([[:space:]])* (?!>) }{$1<ch.emdash/>$2}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ [[:space:]]* \227 [[:space:]]* }{<ch.emdash/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ ([[:digit:]]) - ([[:digit:]]) }{$1<ch.endash/>$2}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ [[:space:]]* \227 [[:space:]]* }{<ch.endash/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ > [[:space:]]* \. [[:space:]]* \. ([[:space:]]* \.)? }{><ch.lellips/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ [[:space:]]* \. [[:space:]]* \. ([[:space:]]* \.)? }{<ch.ellips/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ (</?quote>) \1 }{<ch.thinspace/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ <quote> \' }{<quote><ch.thinspace/><ch.apos/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ \' </quote> }{<ch.apos/><ch.thinspace/></quote>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{ __+ }{<ch.blankline/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
- if( $modified =~ s{\%}{<ch.percent/>}xg ) { $replacements = 1; }
-
- if( $replacements ) {
- print "\033[2J";
- print &highlight( $line ) . "\n";
- print &highlight( $modified );
- print "\033[7m (a)ccept, (r)eject, (q)uit: [accept]\033[0m >> ";
-
- my $response = <STDIN>;
- chomp $response;
- if( $response =~ m/^[aA]$/ || $response eq "" ) { $line = $modified; }
- elsif( $response =~ m/^[qQ]$/ ) {
- print OUTFILE $line;
- while( $line = <INFILE> ) {
- print OUTFILE $line;
- }
- exit( 0 );
- }
- return $line;
- }
- else { return $line; }
-}
-
-sub highlight {
- my ($text) = @_;
-
- my $start = "\033[45;30m";
- my $encodedStart = "\033[40;35m";
- my $dashStart = "\033[46;30m";
- my $encodedDashStart = "\033[40;36m";
- my $stop = "\033[0m";
-
- $text =~ s{^[[:space:]]+}{}g;
- $text =~ s{ ([[:space:]]) \& ([[:space:]]) }{$1$start\&$stop$2}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.ampersand/>)}{$encodedStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.emdash/>)}{$encodedDashStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{ [[:space:]] (\&) [[:space:]] }{$dashStart$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{ ([[:space:]]+ - [[:space:]]+) }{$dashStart$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{ (?<!\!) ([[:space:]]* -- [[:space:]]*) }{$dashStart$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{ ([[:space:]]* \227 [[:space:]]*) }{$dashStart$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.endash/>)}{$encodedDashStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{ ([[:digit:]]) - ([[:digit:]]) }{$1$dashStart-$stop$2}xg;
- $text =~ s{ ([[:space:]]* \226 [[:space:]]*) }{$dashStart$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.lellips/>)}{$encodedStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{ > ([[:space:]]* \. [[:space:]]* \. ([[:space:]]* \.)?) }{>$start$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.ellips/>)}{$encodedStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{ ([[:space:]]* \. [[:space:]]* \. ([[:space:]]* \.)?) }{$start$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.thinspace/>)}{$encodedStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{ (</?quote> \1) }{$start$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{ (<quote> <ch.apos/>) }{$start$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{ (<ch.apos/> </quote>) }{$start$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.blankline/>)}{$encodedStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{ (__+) }{$start$1$stop}xg;
- $text =~ s{(<ch.percent/>)}{$encodedStart$1$stop}g;
- $text =~ s{(\%)}{$start$1$stop}xg;
-
- return $text;
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -Tw
-#
-# Uses ANSI color escapes to highlight text and for cursor movement
-#
-
-use strict;
-
-my $usage = "Usage:\n gbfixquotes.pl [options] INFILE OUTFILE\n\t-f \tforce attempted fixes in malformed places\n\t-s LINES\tskip lines\n";
-
-my $lineNumber = 1;
-my $skipLines = 1;
-
-my $tags = qr{(p)|(choice)};
-my $quoteMarks = qr{['`\221-\224]};
-my $notQuoteMarks = qr{[^'`\221-\224]};
-my $terminalPunctuation = qr{[.?!,]};
-my $notTerminalPunctuation = qr{[^.?!,]};
-
-my $spellNames = qr{(lightning[[:space:]]+hand)|(splinter)|(flameshaft)|(halt[[:space:]]+missile)|(strength)|(penetrate)|(energy[[:space:]]+grasp)|(slow[[:space:]]+fall)|(breathe[[:space:]]+water)|(power[[:space:]]+glyph)|(hold[[:space:]]+enemy)|(teleport)|(see[[:space:]]+illusion)|(mind[[:space:]]+charm)|(net)|(counterspell)|(sense[[:space:]]+evil)|(invisible[[:space:]]+fist)|(levitation)}i;
-
-my ($infile, $outfile);
-
-my $optsProcessed = 0;
-my $forced = 0;
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 && not $optsProcessed ) {
- my $commandLineItem = shift @ARGV;
- if( $commandLineItem eq "-f" ) {
- $forced = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-s" ) {
- $skipLines = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
- }
- else {
- unshift @ARGV, $commandLineItem;
- $optsProcessed = 1;
- }
-}
-
-if( $#ARGV == 1 ) {
- $infile = shift @ARGV;
- $outfile = shift @ARGV;
-}
-else {
- die $usage;
-}
-
-if( $infile =~ m{(^.*$)} && -f $1 ) {
- open( INFILE, "<$1" ) or die "Error: unable to read from \"$infile\": $!\n";
-}
-else {
- die "Error: bad input file\n";
-}
-
-if( $outfile =~ m{(^.*$)} ) {
- open( OUTFILE, ">$1" ) or die "Error: unable to write to \"$outfile\": $!\n";
-}
-else {
- die "Error: bad output file\n";
-}
-
-while( my $line = <INFILE> ) {
- if( $skipLines > $lineNumber ) { }
- elsif( $line =~ m{<($tags)[[:space:]>]} ) {
- my $tagName = $1;
- unless( $line =~ m{</$tagName>} ) {
- printWarning( "Warning ($lineNumber): <$tagName> found without </$tagName>, skipping tests for current line\n", $line );
- }
- elsif( $line =~ m{${quoteMarks}} ) {
- $line = "ify( $line );
- }
- }
- elsif( $forced && $line =~ m{${quoteMarks}} ) {
- $line = "ify( $line );
- }
- elsif( $line =~ m{</($tags)>} ) {
- printWarning( "Warning ($lineNumber): </$1> found without <$1>\n", $line );
- }
- elsif( $line =~ m{($quoteMarks)}x ) {
- printWarning( "Warning ($lineNumber): unescaped quotation character \"$1\" found outside tested context\n", $line );
- }
-
- print OUTFILE $line;
- ++$lineNumber;
-}
-
-close OUTFILE;
-close INFILE;
-
-################################################################################
-
-sub quotify {
- my ($line) = @_;
- my $modified = $line;
- $modified =~ s{
- $quoteMarks
- ($spellNames)
- $quoteMarks
- }
- {<spell>$1</spell>}xg;
- $modified =~ s{
- ([[:space:]])
- $quoteMarks
- ([[:alpha:]]+)
- $quoteMarks
- ([[:space:]])
- }
- {$1<quote>$2</quote>$3}xg;
- $modified =~ s{
- ([[:alpha:]][[:space:]]*)
- $quoteMarks
- ([[:space:]]*[[:alpha:]])
- }
- {$1\'$2}xg;
- $modified =~ s{
- ${quoteMarks}
- (${notTerminalPunctuation}+?
- ${terminalPunctuation})
- ${quoteMarks}
- }
- {<quote>$1</quote>}xg;
- $modified =~ s{
- ${quoteMarks}
- (${notQuoteMarks}+?)
- ${quoteMarks}
- }
- {<quote>$1</quote>}xg;
- print "\033[2J";
- print &highlight( $line ) . "\n";
- print &highlight( $modified );
- print "\033[7m (a)ccept, (r)eject, (q)uit: [accept]\033[0m >> ";
- my $response = <STDIN>;
- chomp $response;
- if( $response =~ m/^[aA]$/ || $response eq "" ) { $line = $modified; }
- elsif( $response =~ m/^[qQ]$/ ) {
- print OUTFILE $line;
- while( $line = <INFILE> ) {
- print OUTFILE $line;
- }
- exit( 0 );
- }
- return $line;
-}
-
-sub highlight {
- my ($text) = @_;
-
- $text =~ s{^[[:space:]]+}{};
- $text =~ s{(<quote>)}{\033[1;36m$1\033[0m}g;
- $text =~ s{(</quote>)}{\033[1;34m$1\033[0m}g;
- $text =~ s{(</?spell>)}{\033[1;35m$1\033[0m}g;
- $text =~ s{(\')}{\033[1;32m$1\033[0m}g;
- $text =~ s{($quoteMarks)}{\033[1m\033[43m$1\033[0m}g;
-
- return $text;
-}
-
-sub printWarning {
- my ($message, $line) = @_;
- print "\033[2J";
- print "$message\n";
- print &highlight( $line ) . "\n";
- print "\033[7m [continue]\033[0m >> ";
- my $response = <STDIN>;
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -Tw
-#
-# Each new section id requires adding it to the list (e.g. improved
-# disciplines).
-#
-###############################################################################
-use strict;
-
-my $endOfDTD = 0;
-
-my %sectionDocLookup = (
- '_unknown' => '_unknown',
- 'toc' => 'toc',
- 'title' => 'title',
- 'dedicate' => 'dedicate',
- 'acknwldg' => 'acknwldg',
- 'credits' => 'acknwldg',
- 'coming' => 'coming',
- 'tssf' => 'tssf',
- 'gamerulz' => 'gamerulz',
- 'discplnz' => 'discplnz',
- 'camflage' => 'discplnz',
- 'hunting' => 'discplnz',
- 'sixthsns' => 'discplnz',
- 'tracking' => 'discplnz',
- 'healing' => 'discplnz',
- 'wepnskll' => 'discplnz',
- 'mndshld' => 'discplnz',
- 'mndblst' => 'discplnz',
- 'anmlknsp' => 'discplnz',
- 'mindomtr' => 'discplnz',
- 'mksumary' => 'discplnz',
- 'anmlctrl' => 'discplnz',
- 'curing' => 'discplnz',
- 'invsblty' => 'discplnz',
- 'psisurge' => 'discplnz',
- 'psiscrn' => 'discplnz',
- 'dvnation' => 'discplnz',
- 'wpnmstry' => 'discplnz',
- 'anmlmstr' => 'discplnz',
- 'deliver' => 'discplnz',
- 'assimila' => 'discplnz',
- 'hntmstry' => 'discplnz',
- 'pthmnshp' => 'discplnz',
- 'kaisurge' => 'discplnz',
- 'kaiscrn' => 'discplnz',
- 'nexus' => 'discplnz',
- 'gnosis' => 'discplnz',
- 'magi' => 'discplnz',
- 'kalchemy' => 'discplnz',
- 'powers' => 'powers',
- 'lessmcks' => 'powers',
- 'alchemy' => 'powers',
- 'sorcery' => 'powers',
- 'enchant' => 'powers',
- 'elementl' => 'powers',
- 'prophecy' => 'powers',
- 'psycmncy' => 'powers',
- 'evcation' => 'powers',
- 'highmcks' => 'powers',
- 'thamtrgy' => 'powers',
- 'telergy' => 'powers',
- 'physirgy' => 'powers',
- 'theurgy' => 'powers',
- 'visionry' => 'powers',
- 'necrmncy' => 'powers',
- 'staff' => 'powers',
- 'moonston' => 'powers',
- 'equipmnt' => 'equipmnt',
- 'howcarry' => 'equipmnt',
- 'howmuch' => 'equipmnt',
- 'howuse' => 'equipmnt',
- 'cmbtrulz' => 'cmbtrulz',
- 'evasion' => 'cmbtrulz',
- 'lorecrcl' => 'lorecrcl',
- 'lcbonus' => 'lorecrcl',
- 'levels' => 'levels',
- 'primate' => 'levels',
- 'tutelary' => 'levels',
- 'mentora' => 'levels',
- 'scion' => 'levels',
- 'archmstr' => 'levels',
- 'prncpln' => 'levels',
- 'imprvdsc' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'guardian' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'sunkght' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'sunlord' => 'imprvdsc',
- 'kaiwisdm' => 'kaiwisdm',
- 'sage' => 'sage',
- 'numbered' => 'numbered',
- 'passing' => 'passing',
- 'part1' => 'part1',
- 'part2' => 'part2',
- 'map' => 'map',
- 'action' => 'action',
- 'crsumary' => 'crsumary',
- 'smevazn' => 'crsumary',
- 'crtable' => 'crtable',
- 'random' => 'random',
- 'errata' => 'errata',
- 'errintro' => 'errata',
- 'errerr' => 'errata',
- 'footnotz' => 'footnotz',
- 'illstrat' => 'illstrat',
- 'primill' => 'illstrat',
- 'secill' => 'illstrat',
- 'license' => 'license',
- 'lic-pre' => 'license',
- 'lic-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-2' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-3' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-4' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-5' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-6' => 'license',
- 'lic-1-7' => 'license',
- 'lic-2' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-2' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-3' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-4' => 'license',
- 'lic-2-5' => 'license',
- 'lic-3' => 'license',
- 'lic-3-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-3-1' => 'license',
- 'lic-4' => 'license',
- 'lic-4-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-5' => 'license',
- 'lic-5-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-6' => 'license',
- 'lic-6-0' => 'license',
- 'lic-6-1' => 'license',
-);
-
-my $errorCount = 0;
-my $maxErrorCount = 0;
-my $skipLines = 0;
-my $initials = "??";
-my $useCorr = 0;
-my $checkNonASCII = 1;
-my $language = 'en';
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 && $ARGV[ 0 ] =~ /^-/ ) {
- if( $ARGV[ 0 ] eq "-e" && $#ARGV > 0 ) {
- shift @ARGV;
- $maxErrorCount = shift @ARGV;
- }
- elsif( $ARGV[ 0 ] eq "-s" && $#ARGV > 0 ) {
- shift @ARGV;
- $skipLines = shift @ARGV;
- }
- elsif( $ARGV[ 0 ] eq "-i" && $#ARGV > 0 ) {
- shift @ARGV;
- $initials = shift @ARGV;
- }
- elsif( $ARGV[ 0 ] eq "--use-corr" ) {
- shift @ARGV;
- $useCorr = 1;
- }
- elsif( $ARGV[ 0 ] eq '--skip-ASCII-check' ) {
- shift @ARGV;
- $checkNonASCII = 0;
- }
- elsif( $ARGV[ 0 ] eq '--language' ) {
- shift @ARGV;
- $language = shift @ARGV;
- }
-}
-
-my $lineNumber = 1;
-my $currentSection = "_unknown";
-
-while( my $line = <> ) {
- my @section = ( $line =~ /<section[^>]+id="([^"]*)"/g );
- if( $#section > 0 ) { die( "Multiple sections begin at line $lineNumber\n" ); }
- elsif( $#section == 0 ) {
- if( $section[ 0 ] =~ /^sect[[:digit:]]+$/ ) {
- $currentSection = $section[ 0 ];
- }
- else {
- $currentSection = $sectionDocLookup{$section[ 0 ]};
- }
- }
-
- if( $skipLines >= $lineNumber ) {
- ++$lineNumber;
- next;
- }
-
- ##### Unescaped Characters
- if( $line =~ /[\200-\377]/ ) {
- if( $line =~ /\221/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped left single quotation mark(s)", "\221", "<quote>...</quote> or \'" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\222/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped right single quotation mark(s)", "\222", "<quote>...</quote> or \'" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\223/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped left double quotation mark(s)", "\223", "<quote>...</quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\224/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped right double quotation mark(s)", "\224", "<quote>...</quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\226/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped endash(es)", "\226", "&endash;" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\227/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped emdash(es)", "\227", "&emdash;" ); }
-# if( $checkNonASCII && $line =~ /(.{0,4}?)?([\x80-\xff])(.{0,4})?/ ) {
-# &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped non-ASCII character(s) in \"${1}[[HERE]]${3}\"; first found only", "$2" );
-# }
- if( $line =~ /(.{0,4}?)?([\x80-\x9f])(.{0,4})?/ ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unsafe non-ASCII character(s) in \"${1}[[HERE]]${3}\"; first found only", "$2" );
- }
-}
- if( $line =~ /'/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "unescaped apostrophe(s)", "'", "\' or <quote>...</quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /`/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "backtick(s)", "`", "\' or <quote>...</quote>" ); }
-
- # tab
-
- if( $line =~ /\t/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "TAB character found; convert to equivalent SPACEs" ); }
-
- # ampersand
- if( $line =~ /\&\s/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible malformed ampersand or escape sequence", "&", "&ersand;" ); }
-
- # emdash
- if( $line =~ /\s-\s/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable malformed emdash", " - ", "\&emdash;" ); }
- if( $line =~ /(?<!\!)--(?!>)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable malformed emdash", "--", "\&emdash;" ); }
-
- # endash
- if( $line =~ /([0-9])-([0-9]+)(?![^<]+>)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible malformed endash", "$1-$2", "$1\&endash;$2" ); }
-
- # ellipsis
- if( $line =~ /(\.\s*\.(\s*\.)?)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible malformed ellipsis", "$1", "\&ellips; or \&lellips;" ); }
- if( $line =~ /(\&ellips;)([^<[:space:]])/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "\&ellips; without space afterwards", "$1$2", "\&ellips; $2" ); }
- if( $line =~ /([[:space:]]\&ellips;)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "\&ellips; with preceding space", "$1", "\&ellips;" ); }
- if( $line =~ /([^>])(\&lellips;)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible \&lellips; used in place of \&ellips;", "$1$2", "$1\&ellips;" ); }
- if( $line =~ /(>\&ellips;)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible \&ellips; used in place of \&lellips;", "$1", ">\&lellips;" ); }
-
- # thinspace
- if( $line =~ m{(</?quote>)\1} ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable candidate for thinspace", "$1$1", "$1\&thinspace;$1" ); }
- if( $line =~ m{(<quote>)(\')} || $line =~ m{(\')(</quote>)} ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable canidate for thinspace", "$1$2", "$1\&thinspace;$2" ); }
-
- # blankline
- if( $line =~ /(__+)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable candidate for blankline", "$1", "\&blankline;" ); }
-
- # percent
- # It should be safe to assume that there will be a "]>" at the end of
- # internal DTD subset. Previous to the end of the internal DTD subset
- # "%" has special meaning and shouldn't be detected.
- if( $line =~ /]>/ ) { $endOfDTD = 1; }
- if( $endOfDTD && $line =~ /\%/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible candidate for percent", "\%", "\&percent;" ); }
-
- ##### OCR Errors
-
- if( $line =~ m{([^.?!:);>]</((p)|(choice))>)} ) { &printError( "??", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible missing punctuation", "$1" ); }
- if( $line =~ /((?<![iIeE]\.[eg])[.?!]\s+[a-z])/ ) { &printError( "??", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible bad initial capitalization", "$1" ); }
- if( $line =~ /([a-zA-Z][0-9][a-zA-Z])/ ) { &printError( "??", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable replacement of number for letter", "$1" ); }
- if( $line =~ />[^<]*-[[:space:]]/ ) { &printError( "??", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible retained end-of-line hyphen(s)" ); }
-
- ##### Obsolete Markup
-
- if( $line =~ /\&lsquot;/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable obsolete markup", "\&lsquot;", "<quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\&rsquot;/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable obsolete markup", "\&rsquot;", "</quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\&ldquot;/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable obsolete markup", "\&ldquot;", "<quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\&rdquot;/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable obsolete markup", "\&rdquot;", "</quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\"/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible obsolete markup", "\"", "<quote> or </quote>" ); }
- if( $line =~ /(\&link.[^;]+;)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "probable obsolete markup", "$1", "use <bookref.../> instead" ); }
- if( $line =~ /\&([^[:space:]]+);/ ) {
- unless( $1 =~ /^(?:link|inclusion)/ ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible obsolete markup", "\&$1\;", "<ch.$1/>" );
- }
- }
- if( $line =~ /(<a([^>]*) class="footnote"(.*?)>)/ ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "obsolete markup", "$1", "<footref$2$3>" ); }
-
- ##### Character Attributes
- if( $line =~ /[^>]((CLOSE\s+)?COMBAT\sSKILL)/ || $line =~ /((CLOSE\s+)?COMBAT\sSKILL)[^<]/ ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible missing markup", "$1", "<typ class=\"attribute\">$1</typ>" );
- }
- if( $line =~ /[^>](ENDURANCE)/ || $line =~ /(ENDURANCE)[^<]/ ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible missing markup", "ENDURANCE", "<typ class=\"attribute\">ENDURANCE</typ>" );
- }
- if( $line =~ /[^>](WILLPOWER)/ || $line =~ /(WILLPOWER)[^<]/ ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible missing markup", "WILLPOWER", "<typ class=\"attribute\">WILLPOWER</typ>" );
- }
-
- ##### Links
- if( $line =~ /[^>](random[[:space:]]+number[[:space:]]+table)/i ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible missing markup", "$1", "<a idref=\"random\">$1</a>" );
- }
- if( $line =~ /[^>](action[[:space:]]+charts?)/i ) {
- &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible missing markup", "$1", "<a idref=\"action\">$1</a>" );
- }
-
- ##### Others
- if( $line =~ m{<!--(?!/?ERRTAG)} ) { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "XML comment found (check for editor comments)" ); }
- if( $line =~ /([[:upper:]]{5,})/ &&
- $` !~ /<signpost>$/ &&
- (($language eq 'en' &&
- $1 ne "ENDURANCE" &&
- $1 ne "COMBAT" &&
- $1 ne "WILLPOWER" &&
- $1 ne "CLOSE") ||
- ($language eq 'es' &&
- $1 ne 'DESTREZA' &&
- $1 ne 'RESISTENCIA')) &&
- $1 ne "DOCTYPE" &&
- $1 ne "ENTITY" &&
- $1 ne "XVIII" &&
- $1 ne "ERRTAG" )
- { &printError( "ne", $currentSection, $lineNumber, "possible <signpost> needed", "$1", "<signpost>$1</signpost>" ); }
-
- #####
- ++$lineNumber;
-}
-
-unless( $endOfDTD || $skipLines > 0 ) { print "End of document reached without finding end of internal DTD subset \"]>\".\n"; }
-
-################################################################################
-
-sub printError {
- my ($type, $section, $line, $message, $original, $corrected) = @_;
- my $report = "";
-
- if( $useCorr ) {
- $report = "($type) $section: ";
- if( defined $original ) { $report .= "$original "; }
- if( defined $corrected ) { $report .= "-> $corrected "; }
- $report .= "[$initials: $message <line $line>]\n";
- }
- else {
- $report = "line $line ($section): $message";
- if( defined $original ) { $report .= " \"$original\""; }
- if( defined $corrected ) { $report .= " ($corrected)"; }
- $report .= "\n";
- }
-
- print $report;
-
- ++$errorCount;
- if( $maxErrorCount > 0 && $errorCount > $maxErrorCount ) { die "Maximum number of errors ($maxErrorCount) exceeded. Quitting.\n"; }
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-#
-# Created from gengraph.pl by Thomas Wolmer
-# 19 December 2002
-#
-# This program makes assumptions about the input XML file:
-#
-# * the title of the numbered sections is a simple number
-# * the title appears on a line by itself
-# * the numbered sections are followed by sections of class "backmatter"
-#
-################################################################################
-
-use strict;
-
-die( "gbtodot inputXMLfile outputDOTfile\n" ) if( $#ARGV + 1 < 2 );
-
-my $infile = shift @ARGV;
-my $outfile = shift @ARGV;
-my $baseURL = shift @ARGV;
-
-die( "Input file and output file the same: \"$infile\" \"$outfile\"\n" ) if( $infile eq $outfile );
-
-open( INFILE, "<$infile" ) or die( "Cannot read $infile: $!\n" );
-my @inlines = <INFILE>;
-close INFILE;
-
-my $graphName = $infile;
-$graphName =~ s/\.xml$//;
-
-open( OUTFILE, ">$outfile" ) or die( "Cannot write to $outfile: $!\n" );
-print( OUTFILE "digraph theGraph {\n nodesep=.1; \n ranksep=.2;\n ratio=auto;\n");
-print( OUTFILE " node [height=.3,width=.3,shape=ellipse,fixedsize=true,fontname=Arial,fontsize=8]\n");
-print( OUTFILE " edge [arrowsize=.7]\n");
-
-my $section = -1;
-my $combat = 0;
-my $smallIll = 0;
-my $ill = 0;
-my @attributes = ();
-my $backmatterFound;
-
-foreach my $line (@inlines) {
- if( $line =~ m|class="backmatter"| ) {
- last;
- }
- if( $line =~ m|<title>(\d+)</title>| ) {
- # Visualize the previous section's attributes
- if( $combat ) {
- push( @attributes, ( "color=firebrick1", "style=filled" ) );
- }
- # Assume that small and large illustrations never appear together
- if( $smallIll ) {
- push( @attributes, ( "fontcolor=DarkGreen", "label=\"s$smallIll\\n$section\"" ) );
- }
- if( $ill ) {
- push( @attributes, ( "fontcolor=blue", "label=\"i$ill\\n$section\"" ) );
- }
- if( defined( $baseURL ) ) {
- push( @attributes, ( "URL=\"${baseURL}sect${section}.htm\"", "" ) );
- }
-
- # Print out extra section data if needed
- if( $#attributes > 0 && $section != -1 ) {
-# print( OUTFILE " $section [", join( ',', @attributes ), "];\n");
- printf( OUTFILE " %03d [%s];\n", $section, join( ',', @attributes ) );
- }
- $combat = 0;
- $smallIll = 0;
- $ill = 0;
- @attributes = ();
- $section = $1;
- }
- elsif( $line =~ m|<choice\sidref="sect(\d+)">| ) {
-# print( OUTFILE " $section -> $1;\n" );
- printf( OUTFILE " %03d -> %03d;\n", $section, $1 );
- }
- elsif( $line =~ m|idref="sect(\d+)"| && $section != -1 ) { # misc links (should be pruned later)
- printf( OUTFILE " %03d -> %03d [style=dotted,dir=none];\n", $1, $section );
- }
-
- if( $line =~ m|<combat>| ) {
- $combat = 1;
- }
-
- if( $line =~ m|src=\"ill(\d+)| ) {
- $ill = $1;
- }
-
- if( $line =~ m/src=\"s(mall|ect)(\d+)/ ) {
- $smallIll = $2;
- }
-}
-
-print( OUTFILE "}\n" );
-close OUTFILE;
+++ /dev/null
-#!/bin/perl -w
-#
-# gbtolatex.pl
-# 10 April 2002
-#
-# Creates LaTeX gamebook from XML source. This should subsequently be
-# used to create a PDF or PostScript version.
-#####
-
-use strict;
-
-my $PROGRAM_NAME = "gbtolatex";
-my $XML_PATH = "xml";
-my $XML_SOURCE = "";
-my $PWD = `pwd`;
-chomp($PWD);
-my $BOOK_PATH = $PWD."/latex";
-my $TITLE_COLOR = "";
-my $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = "";
-
-# Programs
-#
-my $XMLPROC = "xalan";
-# my $XMLPROC = "/usr/local/bin/xmlto";
-
-# Check AONPATH
-my $DATADIR=$ENV{'AONDATA'} || $ENV{'AONPATH'}."/data";
-if ( ! -d "$DATADIR" ) {
- if ( ! defined($ENV{'AONPATH'}) && ! defined ($ENV{'AONDATA'}) ) {
- print STDERR "AONPATH environment variable not set, it should be defined to\n";
- print STDERR "wherever the AON files are.\n";
- } else {
- print STDERR "Cannot find $DATADIR !\n";
- }
- exit 1;
-}
-##
-
-unless( $ARGV[ 0 ] ) { die "Usage:\n\t${PROGRAM_NAME} book-code [LANGUAGE]\n"; }
-
-print "Reminder:\n\tDid you uncomment the LaTeX special character\n\tdeclarations in the book's XML file?\n";
-
-my $bookCode = $ARGV[ 0 ];
-my $language = $ARGV[ 1 ] || "";
-
-# TODO:
-# - convert the bookcode's if then else to a hash array
-# - allow usage of unknown book codes
-
-if( $bookCode eq "01fftd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01fftd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/01fftd";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.0,0.4,0.2";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "02fotw" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "02fotw.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/02fotw";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.0,0.6,0.6";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "03tcok" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "03tcok.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/03tcok";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.0,0.6,0.8";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "04tcod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "04tcod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/04tcod";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.0,0.0,0.6";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "05sots" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "05sots.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/05sots";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.8,0.6,0.0";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "06tkot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "06tkot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/06tkot";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.6,0.6,0.0";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "07cd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "07cd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/07cd";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.0,0.8,0.4";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "08tjoh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "08tjoh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/08tjoh";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.4,0.6,0.4";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "09tcof" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "09tcof.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/09tcof";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "1.0,0.6,0.0";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "10tdot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "10tdot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/10tdot";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "1.0,0.0,0.0";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "11tpot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "11tpot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/11tpot";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.5,0.5,0.4";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "12tmod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "12tmod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/12tmod";
- $TITLE_COLOR = "0.6,0.0,0.0";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-else{ die "Error:\n\tUknown book code.\n"; }
-
-chdir( "$DATADIR" ) or die( "Cannot open Project Aon data directory \"$DATADIR\": $!" );
-
-# If there is a LANGUAGE set use it
-if ( $language ne "" ) {
-# Languages are prefixes to the booknames in the files
- $XML_SOURCE =~ s/\.xml$/\.${language}.xml/;
-}
-
-# Check that the XML file is there
-if ( ! -r $DATADIR."/".$XML_SOURCE ) {
- die "Could not find source file $XML_SOURCE in $DATADIR!";
-}
-if ( ! -r $DATADIR."/latex.xsl" ) {
- die "Could not find LaTeX stylesheet (latex.xsl) in $DATADIR!";
-}
-
-
-# Create the output directory if it does not exist already
-print "Checking directory $BOOK_PATH...";
-if ( ! -d "$BOOK_PATH" ) {
- print "...creating";
- `mkdir -p "$BOOK_PATH"` || die "Could not create output directory $BOOK_PATH: $!";
-}
-print "..done.\n";
-
-my $OUTPUTFILE="$BOOK_PATH/$bookCode.tex";
-if ( $language ne "" ) {
-# Languages are prefixes to the booknames in the files
- $OUTPUTFILE =~ s/\.tex$/\.${language}.tex/;
-}
-
-# Run the XML preprocessor
-# TODO: use system() properly here and check return value
-print "Processing book $bookCode and storing result in $OUTPUTFILE...";
-# For Xmlto, which uses xsltproc:
-# (Does not work)
-# `$XMLPROC -v -o $BOOK_PATH -x ${DATADIR}/latex.xsl dvi ${DATADIR}/${XML_SOURCE}`;
-# Apache's Xalan:
-`$XMLPROC -xsl ${DATADIR}/latex.xsl -in ${DATADIR}/${XML_SOURCE} -out $OUTPUTFILE`;
-# Apache Xalan, Java version:
-# print qx{$JAVA org.apache.xalan.xslt.Process -IN $XML_PATH/$XML_SOURCE -XSL $XML_PATH/latex.xsl -OUT $BOOK_PATH/$bookCode.tex -PARAM title-color \"$TITLE_COLOR\" -PARAM use-illustrators \"$USE_ILLUSTRATORS\"};
-#
-print "...done\n";
-
-
-# End of script
-exit 0;
-
+++ /dev/null
-#!/bin/perl -w
-#
-# gbtoxhtml.pl
-# 10 April 2002
-#
-# Creates XHTML gamebook from XML source.
-#
-# $Id$
-#
-# $Log$
-# Revision 1.1 2005/04/26 04:47:54 jonathan.blake
-# Initial revision
-#
-# Revision 1.1 2002/10/22 16:20:26 jblake
-# Initial revision
-#
-#
-# Revision 1.3 2002/10/20 05:47:50 jblake
-# Added Highway Holocaust to the book list.
-#
-# Revision 1.2 2002/10/18 15:42:25 jblake
-# Added Grey Star the Wizard to the book list.
-#
-# Revision 1.1 2002/10/18 15:38:41 jblake
-# Initial revision
-#
-#####
-
-use strict;
-
-##
-
-my $PROGRAM_NAME = "gbtoxhtml";
-my $PATH_PREFIX = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/data";
-my $XML_PATH = "xml";
-my $BOOK_PATH = "xhtml-pda";
-
-##
-
-my $CREATE_CSS = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/bin/create-pdacss.pl";
-my $RXP = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/bin/rxp";
-my $CP = "/bin/cp";
-my $MV = "/bin/mv";
-my $TAR = "/usr/local/bin/tar";
-my $ZIP = "/bin/zip";
-my $BZIP2 = "/bin/bzip2";
-my $JAVA = "/usr/j2sdk1_3_0_02/bin/java";
-my $RM = "/bin/rm";
-
-##
-
-my $XML_SOURCE = "";
-my $TEXT_COLOR = "";
-my $LINK_COLOR = "";
-my $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "";
-my $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = "";
-
-##
-
-unless( $ARGV[ 0 ] ) { die "Usage:\n\t${PROGRAM_NAME} BOOK_CODE\n"; }
-
-print "Reminder:\n\tDid you comment out the LaTeX special character\n\tdeclarations in the book's XML file?\n";
-
-my( $bookCode ) = @ARGV;
-
-if( $bookCode eq "01fftd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01fftd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/01fftd";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#006633";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003300";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "02fotw" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "02fotw.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/02fotw";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003333";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#009999";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003333";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "03tcok" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "03tcok.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/03tcok";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003366";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#0099cc";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003366";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "04tcod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "04tcod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/04tcod";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#000033";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#000099";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#000033";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "05sots" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "05sots.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/05sots";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#cc9900";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "06tkot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "06tkot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/06tkot";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#404000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#999900";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#404000";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "07cd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "07cd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/07cd";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#00cc66";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003300";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "08tjoh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "08tjoh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/08tjoh";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#334033";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#669966";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#334033";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "09tcof" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "09tcof.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/09tcof";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#ff9900";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "10tdot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "10tdot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/10tdot";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#ff0000";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "11tpot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "11tpot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/11tpot";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#333300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#808066";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#333300";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "12tmod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "12tmod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/12tmod";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#990000";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "13tplor" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "13tplor.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/13tplor";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#333300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#666633";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#333300";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "15tdc" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "15tdc.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/15tdc";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#000033";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#6699cc";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#000033";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "01gstw" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01gstw.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/gs/01gstw";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330066";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#9900ff";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330066";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "01hh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01hh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/fw/01hh";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330066";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#9900ff";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330066";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "rh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "rh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/misc/rh";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#400000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#339933";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#400000";
-}
-else{ die "Error:\n\tUknown book code ($bookCode).\n"; }
-
-chdir( "$PATH_PREFIX" ) or die( "Cannot open Project Aon data directory \"$PATH_PREFIX\": $!" );
-print STDERR "Validating XML... ";
-system( "$RXP", "-Vs", "$XML_PATH/$XML_SOURCE" ) == 0 or die( "failed\n" );
-print STDERR "succeeded\n";
-
--d "$BOOK_PATH" or die( "Book directory does not exist or isn't a directory: $!\n" );
-
-print STDERR "Removing previous files in \"$PATH_PREFIX/$BOOK_PATH/\"...\n";
-qx{$RM $BOOK_PATH/*};
-print STDERR "Processing XSL Transformation...\n";
-print STDERR "Warning:\n\tdiscarding top-level output of transformation\n";
-print qx{$JAVA org.apache.xalan.xslt.Process -IN $XML_PATH/$XML_SOURCE -XSL $XML_PATH/xhtml-pda.xsl -OUT /dev/null -PARAM book-path \"$PATH_PREFIX/$BOOK_PATH\" -PARAM text-color \"$TEXT_COLOR\" -PARAM link-color \"$LINK_COLOR\" -PARAM use-illustrators \"$USE_ILLUSTRATORS\"};
-
-print STDERR "Creating CSS\n";
-print qx{$CREATE_CSS $BOOK_PATH \"$TEXT_COLOR\" \"\#ffffe6\" \"$SCROLL_BASE_COLOR\" \"\#e6e6cc\" \"\#ffffe6\" \"$LINK_COLOR\" \"$LINK_COLOR\" \"\#e6e6cc\" \"$LINK_COLOR\"};
-
-print STDERR "Copying archived image files...\n";
-qx{$CP images/$BOOK_PATH/*gif images/$BOOK_PATH/*jpg $BOOK_PATH};
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/local/bin/perl -w
-#
-# gbtolatex.pl
-# 10 April 2002
-#
-# Creates LaTeX gamebook from XML source. This should subsequently be
-# used to create a PDF or PostScript version.
-#####
-
-use strict;
-
-my $PROGRAM_NAME = "gbtopml";
-my $PATH_PREFIX = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/data";
-my $XML_PATH = "$PATH_PREFIX/xml";
-my $PML_PATH = "$PATH_PREFIX/pml";
-
-##
-
-unless( $ARGV[ 0 ] ) { die "Usage:\n\t${PROGRAM_NAME} book-code\n"; }
-
-print STDERR "Reminder:\n\tDid you declare the PML character entities in the XML?\n";
-
-my $bookCode = $ARGV[ 0 ];
-my $XML_SOURCE = "";
-my $BOOK_PATH = "";
-my $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = "";
-
-if( $bookCode eq "01fftd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01fftd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "02fotw" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "02fotw.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "03tcok" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "03tcok.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "04tcod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "04tcod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "05sots" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "05sots.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "06tkot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "06tkot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "07cd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "07cd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "08tjoh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "08tjoh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Gary Chalk:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "09tcof" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "09tcof.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "10tdot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "10tdot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "11tpot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "11tpot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "12tmod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "12tmod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH = "lw/";
- $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = ":Brian Williams:JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake:Jonathan Blake:";
-}
-else{ die "Error:\n\tUknown book code.\n"; }
-
-print qx{java org.apache.xalan.xslt.Process -IN $XML_PATH/$XML_SOURCE -XSL $XML_PATH/pml.xsl -OUT $PML_PATH/$BOOK_PATH/$bookCode.txt -PARAM use-illustrators \"$USE_ILLUSTRATORS\"};
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-
-use strict;
-
-my $gbtoxhtml = "$ENV{AONPATH}/bin/gbtoxhtml.pl";
-my @bookCodes = qw{ 01fftd 02fotw 03tcok 04tcod
- 05sots 06tkot 07cd 08tjoh
- 09tcof 10tdot 11tpot 12tmod
- 13tplor 14tcok 15tdc
- 01gstw 02tfc 03btng
- rh
- };
-
-foreach my $bookCode (@bookCodes) {
- print "\n" . ('~' x 10) . " $bookCode " . ('~' x 10) . "\n\n";
- print qx{$gbtoxhtml $bookCode};
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/local/bin/perl -w
-#
-# gbtoxhtml-single.pl
-# 10 April 2002
-#
-# Creates XHTML gamebook from XML source.
-#####
-
-use strict;
-
-my $PROGRAM_NAME = "gbtoxhtml-single";
-my $PATH_PREFIX = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/data";
-my $XML_PATH = "$PATH_PREFIX/xml";
-my $XHTML_PATH = "$PATH_PREFIX/xhtml-single";
-
-##
-
-unless( $ARGV[ 0 ] ) { die "Usage:\n\t${PROGRAM_NAME} book-code\n"; }
-
-my $CREATE_CSS = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/bin/create-css-xhtml-single.pl";
-my $RXP = "$ENV{'HOME'}/aon/bin/rxp";
-my $JAVA = "/usr/j2sdk1_3_0_02/bin/java";
-
-##
-
-my $BOOK_PATH = "";
-my $XML_SOURCE = "";
-my $TEXT_COLOR = "";
-my $LINK_COLOR = "";
-my $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "";
-my $USE_ILLUSTRATORS = "";
-
-##
-
-unless( $ARGV[ 0 ] ) { die "Usage:\n\t${PROGRAM_NAME} BOOK_CODE\n"; }
-
-print "Reminder:\n\tDid you comment out the LaTeX special character\n\tdeclarations in the book's XML file?\n";
-
-my( $bookCode ) = @ARGV;
-
-if( $bookCode eq "01fftd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01fftd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/01fftd";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#006633";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003300";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "02fotw" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "02fotw.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/02fotw";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003333";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#009999";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003333";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "03tcok" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "03tcok.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/03tcok";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003366";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#0099cc";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003366";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "04tcod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "04tcod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/04tcod";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#000033";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#000099";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#000033";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "05sots" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "05sots.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/05sots";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#cc9900";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "06tkot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "06tkot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/06tkot";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#404000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#999900";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#404000";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "07cd" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "07cd.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/07cd";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#003300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#00cc66";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#003300";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "08tjoh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "08tjoh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/08tjoh";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#334033";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#669966";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#334033";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "09tcof" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "09tcof.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/09tcof";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#ff9900";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "10tdot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "10tdot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/10tdot";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#ff0000";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "11tpot" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "11tpot.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/11tpot";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#333300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#808066";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#333300";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "12tmod" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "12tmod.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/12tmod";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#990000";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330000";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "13tplor" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "13tplor.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/13tplor";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#333300";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#666633";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#333300";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "15tdc" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "15tdc.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/lw/15tdc";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#000033";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#6699cc";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#000033";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "01gstw" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01gstw.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/gs/01gstw";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330066";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#9900ff";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330066";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "01hh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "01hh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/fw/01hh";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#330066";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#9900ff";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#330066";
-}
-elsif( $bookCode eq "rh" ) {
- $XML_SOURCE = "rh.xml";
- $BOOK_PATH .= "/misc/rh";
- $TEXT_COLOR = "#400000";
- $LINK_COLOR = "#339933";
- $SCROLL_BASE_COLOR = "#400000";
-}
-else{ die "Error:\n\tUknown book code ($bookCode).\n"; }
-
-qx{$JAVA org.apache.xalan.xslt.Process -IN $XML_PATH/$XML_SOURCE -XSL $XML_PATH/xhtml-single.xsl -OUT $XHTML_PATH/$BOOK_PATH/$bookCode.html -PARAM use-illustrators \"$USE_ILLUSTRATORS\"};
-qx{$CREATE_CSS $XHTML_PATH/$BOOK_PATH \"$TEXT_COLOR\" \"\#ffffe6\" \"$SCROLL_BASE_COLOR\" \"\#e6e6cc\" \"\#ffffe6\" \"$LINK_COLOR\" \"$LINK_COLOR\" \"\#e6e6cc\" \"$LINK_COLOR\"};
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-#
-# gbtoxhtml.pl
-#
-# Creates XHTML gamebook from XML source.
-#
-# $Id$
-#
-# $Log$
-# Revision 2.1 2006/03/04 01:07:43 jonathan.blake
-# Added parameter to pass the language of the document to the transformation.
-#
-# Revision 2.0 2006/02/28 23:50:54 jonathan.blake
-# Extensive overhaul and changed command line interface
-#
-# Revision 1.2 2005/10/13 00:48:47 angantyr
-# Put Paul Bonner as illustrator of the GS books.
-#
-# Revision 1.1.1.1 2005/04/26 04:47:33 jonathan.blake
-# Imported scripts
-#
-# Revision 1.8 2003/07/14 17:20:09 jblake
-# Modified for Xalan 2.5.1, added support for AONPATH
-# environment variable, commented out RXP validation.
-#
-# Revision 1.7 2002/11/10 07:52:15 jblake
-# Added more books.
-#
-# Revision 1.6 2002/11/10 03:57:50 jblake
-# Added some missing semicolons.
-#
-# Revision 1.5 2002/11/07 18:43:14 jblake
-# Added books (02fotw, 13tplor, and 15tdc) and added an illustrator to the list.
-#
-# Revision 1.4 2002/10/23 18:58:34 jblake
-# Added Flight from the Dark to the valid book list, and made
-# a change to the working directory in order to work with
-# Xalan-J 2.4.0.
-#
-# Revision 1.3 2002/10/20 05:47:50 jblake
-# Added Highway Holocaust to the book list.
-#
-# Revision 1.2 2002/10/18 15:42:25 jblake
-# Added Grey Star the Wizard to the book list.
-#
-# Revision 1.1 2002/10/18 15:38:41 jblake
-# Initial revision
-#
-# ///// To Do
-# * make the transformation more generic by using an xslt-params rule
-#
-#####
-
-use strict;
-
-delete @ENV{qw(PATH IFS CDPATH ENV BASH_ENV)}; # clean house for taint mode
-
-my $PROGRAM_NAME = 'gbtoxhtml';
-my $USAGE = "$PROGRAM_NAME [options]\n\t--book=[book code]\n\t--meta=[metadata file]\n\t--xml=[book XML]\n\t--xsl=[XSL transformation]\n";
-
-my $FILENAME_SEPARATOR = '/';
-
-my $RXP = '/home/projectaon/bin/rxp';
-my $CP = '/bin/cp';
-my $MV = '/bin/mv';
-my $TAR = '/bin/tar';
-my $ZIP = '/usr/bin/zip';
-my $BZIP2 = '/usr/bin/bzip2';
-my $JAVA = '/usr/bin/java';
-my $XALAN_JAR = '/home/projectaon/bin/xalan.jar';
-my $RM = '/bin/rm';
-my $CHMOD = '/bin/chmod';
-
-###
-
-my $bookCode = '';
-my $metaFile = '';
-my $bookXML = '';
-my $xhtmlXSL = '';
-
-my $verbose = 0;
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 ) {
- my $cmdLineItem = shift @ARGV;
- if( $cmdLineItem =~ /^--book=(.+)$/ ) {
- $bookCode = $1;
- }
- elsif( $cmdLineItem =~ /^--meta=(.+)$/ ) {
- $metaFile = $1;
- }
- elsif( $cmdLineItem =~ /^--xml=(.+)$/ ) {
- $bookXML = $1;
- }
- elsif( $cmdLineItem =~ /^--xsl=(.+)$/ ) {
- $xhtmlXSL = $1;
- }
- elsif( $cmdLineItem =~ /^--verbose/ ) {
- $verbose = 1;
- }
- else { die $USAGE; }
-}
-
-if( $bookCode eq '' ) { die "Unspecified book code\n$USAGE"; }
-if( $metaFile eq '' ) { die "Unspecified metadata file\n$USAGE"; }
-if( $bookXML eq '' ) { die "Unspecified book XML file\n$USAGE"; }
-if( $xhtmlXSL eq '' ) { die "Unspecified XSL transformation file\n$USAGE"; }
-
-if( -e $metaFile && -f $metaFile && -r $metaFile ) {
- open( META, '<', $metaFile ) or die qq{Unable to open metadata file ($metaFile): $!\n};
-}
-else { die qq{Improper metadata file ($metaFile)\n}; }
-
-my $meta = '';
-while( my $line = <META> ) {
- $meta .= $line if $line !~ /^[[:space:]]*#/;
-}
-close META;
-
-my $rulesString = '';
-if( $meta =~ /^[[:space:]]*$bookCode[[:space:]]*{([^}]*)}/sm ) {
- $rulesString = $1;
-}
-else {
- die "Book code ($bookCode) not found in metadata file or invalid file syntax\n";
-}
-
-my @rules = split( /[[:space:]\n]*;[[:space:]\n]*/, $rulesString );
-my %rulesHash;
-foreach my $rule (@rules) {
- if( $rule =~ /[[:space:]]*([^:]+)[[:space:]]*:[[:space:]]*(.+)$/s ) {
- $rulesHash{ $1 } = $2;
- }
- else {
- die "Unrecognized rule syntax:\n$rule\n";
- }
-}
-
-if( $bookXML =~ m{^([-\w\@./]+)$} ) {
- $bookXML = $1;
- if( -e $bookXML && -f $bookXML && -r $bookXML ) {
- system( $RXP, '-Vs', $bookXML ) == 0 or die( "XML validation failed\n" );
- }
- unless( defined $rulesHash{'book-path'} ) { die "Metadata file leaves output path unspecified\n"; }
- unless( -e $rulesHash{'book-path'} && -d $rulesHash{'book-path'} ) {
- my @dirs = split ( /$FILENAME_SEPARATOR/, $rulesHash{'book-path'} );
- my $dirPath = '';
- for( my $i = 0; $i <= $#dirs; ++$i ) {
- $dirPath .= $dirs[$i] . $FILENAME_SEPARATOR;
- if( -e $dirPath && ! -d $dirPath ) { die "Output directory name exists and is not a directory\n"; }
- unless( -e $dirPath ) {
- mkdir $dirPath or die( "Unable to create output directory ($rulesHash{'book-path'}): $!\n" );
- }
- }
- }
- unless( -e $rulesHash{'book-path'} && -d $rulesHash{'book-path'} ) {
- die "Unknown error creating output directory\n";
- }
-
- print qx{$RM $rulesHash{'book-path'}$FILENAME_SEPARATOR*};
- print qx{$JAVA -classpath "$XALAN_JAR" org.apache.xalan.xslt.Process -IN "$bookXML" -XSL "$xhtmlXSL" -OUT "$rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}foo.xml" -PARAM background-color "$rulesHash{'background-color'}" -PARAM text-color "$rulesHash{'text-color'}" -PARAM link-color "$rulesHash{'link-color'}" -PARAM use-illustrators "$rulesHash{'use-illustrators'}" -PARAM language "$rulesHash{'language'}"};
- print qx{$RM $rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}foo.xml};
-
- foreach my $cssTemplate (split( /:/, $rulesHash{'csst'} )) {
- $cssTemplate =~ m/([^${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}]+)t$/;
- my $templateFilename = $1;
- open( TEMPLATE, '<', $cssTemplate ) or die "Unable to open CSS template file ($cssTemplate): $!\n";
- open( STYLESHEET, '>', "$rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}${templateFilename}" ) or die "Unable to open stylesheet file ($rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}${templateFilename}) for writing: $!\n";
- while( my $templateLine = <TEMPLATE> ) {
- while( $templateLine =~ /%%([^%[:space:]]+)%%/ ) {
- my $name = $1;
- $templateLine =~ s/%%${name}%%/$rulesHash{$name}/g;
- }
- print STYLESHEET $templateLine;
- }
- }
- close TEMPLATE;
- close STYLESHEET;
-
- foreach my $imagePath (split( /:/, $rulesHash{'images'} )) {
- unless( -e $imagePath && -d $imagePath ) {
- die "Image path ($imagePath) does not exist or is not a directory\n";
- }
- print qx{$CP $imagePath${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}* $rulesHash{'book-path'}};
- }
-
- print qx{$TAR cf ${bookCode}.tar $rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}*};
- print qx{$ZIP -8 -q ${bookCode}.zip $rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}*};
- print qx{$BZIP2 -9 ${bookCode}.tar};
- print qx{$MV ${bookCode}* $rulesHash{'book-path'}${FILENAME_SEPARATOR}};
-}
-
-print "Success\n" if $verbose;
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-#
-# make-editor.pl
-#
-# Creates Editor Pack
-#
-#
-#####
-
-use strict;
-
-##
-
-if( $ENV{'AONPATH'} eq "" ) { die "Please set the AONPATH environment variable."; }
-
-my $PROGRAM_NAME = "make-editor";
-my $PATH_PREFIX = "$ENV{'AONPATH'}/data";
-my $XML_PATH = "xml";
-my $GRAPH_PATH = "svg";
-my $EDITOR_PATH = "editor";
-my $CHANGES_PATH = "$EDITOR_PATH/changes/data";
-my @EDITOR_INC = qw{*.* scripts/* style/* images/* changes/index.html changes/controls.html changes/scripts/* changes/style/*};
-
-##
-
-my $CP = "/bin/cp";
-my $MV = "/bin/mv";
-my $TAR = "/bin/tar";
-my $ZIP = "/usr/bin/zip";
-my $BZIP2 = "/usr/bin/bzip2";
-my $RM = "/usr/bin/rm";
-
-##
-
-my $verbose = 0;
-my $book = "";
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 ) {
- if( $ARGV[0] eq "-v" ) { $verbose = 1; shift @ARGV; }
- else { $book = shift @ARGV; }
-}
-
-chdir( "$PATH_PREFIX" ) or die( "Cannot open Project Aon data directory \"$PATH_PREFIX\": $!" );
-if( $book ne "" ) {
- print "Tarring SVG\n" if $verbose;
- print qx{$TAR cf editor-$book.tar $GRAPH_PATH/$book.svg};
- print "Zipping SVG\n" if $verbose;
- print qx{$ZIP -8 -q editor-$book.zip $GRAPH_PATH/$book.svg};
- print "Tarring Changes\n" if $verbose;
- print qx{$TAR uf editor-$book.tar $CHANGES_PATH/$book-changes.html};
- print "Zipping Changes\n" if $verbose;
- print qx{$ZIP -8 -q editor-$book.zip $CHANGES_PATH/$book-changes.html};
- print "BZIP2ing tar archive\n" if $verbose;
- print qx{$BZIP2 -9 editor-$book.tar};
-}
-else {
- print "Tarring Editor Companion\n" if $verbose;
- foreach my $item (@EDITOR_INC) {
- print qx{$TAR uf editor.tar $EDITOR_PATH/$item};
- }
- print "Zipping Editor Companion\n" if $verbose;
- foreach my $item (@EDITOR_INC) {
- print qx{$ZIP -g -q -8 editor.zip $EDITOR_PATH/$item};
- }
- print "BZIP2ing tar archive\n" if $verbose;
- print qx{$BZIP2 -9 editor.tar};
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-#
-# mergecorrhtml.pl
-#
-# mergecorrhtml [options] -i inputHTML [inputCorrections]
-# -b bookcode
-# -u include with unspecified bookcode
-# -v verbose reporting
-#
-# Merges _sorted_ HTML correction lists: one in a HTML file, one bare list. It
-# will dump any remaining corrections in the lists after completion. The chief
-# reasons that this should happen is if the lists aren't sorted. The correction
-# list in the input HTML should be surrounded by the following markers on lines
-# by themselves:
-#
-# <!--mergecorrhtml:BEGIN-->
-# [list goes here]
-# <!--mergecorrhtml:END-->
-#
-# Typical usage would be in concert with corrtohtml and sortcorrhtml:
-#
-# corrtohtml <correctionFile> | sorcorrhtml | mergecorrhtml -b <book> <html>
-#
-# Output will appear on standard out which would usually be redirected to file.
-#
-################################################################################
-
-use strict;
-
-my $programName = 'mergecorrhtml';
-my $usage = "$programName [options] inputHTML\n" .
- "\t-b bookcode\n" .
- "\t-u include unspecified book\n" .
- "\t-v verbose reporting\n";
-
-my $htmlRegex;
-my $corrRegex;
-my $issueRegex;
-my $markerRegex;
-
-################################################################################
-# Process command line
-
-my $optsProcessed = 0;
-my $inFile;
-my $bookCode = "";
-my $bookCodeReport = "";
-my $includeUnspecifiedBook = 0;
-my $verbose = 0;
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 && not $optsProcessed ) {
- my $commandLineItem = shift @ARGV;
- if( $commandLineItem eq "-b" ) {
- $bookCode = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-u" ) {
- $includeUnspecifiedBook = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-v" ) {
- $verbose = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "--help" ) {
- print $usage and exit;
- }
- else {
- unshift @ARGV, $commandLineItem;
- $optsProcessed = 1;
- }
-}
-
-if( $verbose ) {
- $bookCodeReport = " [$bookCode]";
-}
-
-$inFile = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
-
-$issueRegex = qr{[^#]+?(?:#([[:digit:]]+))};
-
-$htmlRegex = qr{^(<div.*?>)()<a(.*?)href="}; # unused capture to match other regex below
-if( $bookCode eq "" ) {
- $corrRegex = $htmlRegex;
-}
-elsif( $includeUnspecifiedBook ) {
- $corrRegex = qr{^(<div.*?>)(<!--[[:space:]]*${bookCode}[[:space:]]*-->)?<a(.*?)href="};
-}
-else {
- $corrRegex = qr{^(<div.*?>)(<!--[[:space:]]*${bookCode}[[:space:]]*-->)<a(.*?)href="};
-}
-$markerRegex = qr{^<div[[:space:]]+?class="section".*$};
-
-################################################################################
-# Read in HTML into which we're merging and correction HTML
-
-open( INFILE, "<$inFile" ) or die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: unable to open \"$inFile\" for read: $!\n" );
-my @lines = <INFILE>;
-close INFILE;
-
-#### Consume preamble
-
-while( $#lines > -1 && $lines[ 0 ] !~ m{^[[:space:]]*<!--mergecorrhtml:BEGIN-->[[:space:]]*$} ) {
- print shift @lines;
-}
-print shift @lines if( $#lines > -1 );
-
-my @inHTML;
-
-#### Get good stuff
-
-while( $#lines > -1 && $lines[ 0 ] !~ m{^[[:space:]]*<!--mergecorrhtml:END-->[[:space:]]*$} ) {
- if( $lines[ 0 ] =~ m/$htmlRegex/ ) {
- push( @inHTML, shift @lines );
- }
- elsif( $lines[ 0 ] =~ m/$markerRegex/ ) {
- shift @lines;
- }
- elsif( $lines[ 0 ] =~ m/^[[:space:]]*$/ ) {
- shift @lines;
- }
- else {
- die( "Error ($programName)$bookCodeReport: unrecognized input HTML: " . $lines[ 0 ] . "\n" );
- }
-}
-
-my @inCorr;
-while( my $corr = <> ) {
- push( @inCorr, $corr ) if( $corr =~ m{$corrRegex} );
-}
-
-################################################################################
-# Merge!
-
-my @sectSortOrder = &getSectSortOrder( );
-
-foreach my $section (@sectSortOrder) {
- my $issue;
- print "<div class=\"section\"><a name=\"$section\">$section</a></div>\n";
- while( $#inHTML > -1 && $inHTML[ 0 ] =~ m/$htmlRegex$section\.htm${issueRegex}/ ) {
- $issue = $4;
- while( $#inCorr > -1 && $inCorr[ 0 ] =~ m/$corrRegex$section\.htm${issueRegex}/ && $issue eq $4 ) {
- my $corr = shift @inCorr;
- my $comm = "";
- if( $corr !~ m{^.+?:[[:space:]]*<div[^>]+?class="[^"]*cm} ) { warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: discarding data in issue comment: $corr" ); }
- while( $corr =~ s{^.*?(<div[^>]+?class="[^"]*cm[^>]+>.*?</div>)}{} ) {
- $comm .= $1;
- }
- $inHTML[ 0 ] =~ s{</div>$}{$comm</div>}
- }
- print shift @inHTML;
- }
- while( $#inCorr > -1 && $inCorr[ 0 ] =~ m/$corrRegex$section\.htm/ ) {
- my $corr = shift @inCorr;
- $corr =~ s{$corrRegex}{$1<a$3href="};
- ++$issue;
- $corr =~ s{#:}{#$issue:};
- print $corr;
- }
-}
-
-################################################################################
-# Print the remainder of the input HTML and corrections
-
-if( $#inHTML > -1 ) {
- warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: input HTML probably out of order\n\tor unrecognized section--error near:\n\t" . $inHTML[ 0 ] . "\n" );
- print @inHTML;
-}
-if( $#inCorr > -1 ) {
- warn( "Warning ($programName)$bookCodeReport: input corrections probably out of order\n\tor unrecognized section--error near:\n\t" . $inCorr[ 0 ] . "\n" );
- print @inCorr;
-}
-
-print @lines;
-
-
-################################################################################
-################################################################################
-# Subroutines
-
-sub getSectSortOrder {
- return qw{
- _unknown
- toc
- title
- dedicate
- acknwldg
- coming
- tssf
- gamerulz
- discplnz
- powers
- equipmnt
- cmbtrulz
- lorecrcl
- levels
- imprvdsc
- kaiwisdm
- sage
- numbered
- part1
- sect1
- sect2
- sect3
- sect4
- sect5
- sect6
- sect7
- sect8
- sect9
- sect10
- sect11
- sect12
- sect13
- sect14
- sect15
- sect16
- sect17
- sect18
- sect19
- sect20
- sect21
- sect22
- sect23
- sect24
- sect25
- sect26
- sect27
- sect28
- sect29
- sect30
- sect31
- sect32
- sect33
- sect34
- sect35
- sect36
- sect37
- sect38
- sect39
- sect40
- sect41
- sect42
- sect43
- sect44
- sect45
- sect46
- sect47
- sect48
- sect49
- sect50
- sect51
- sect52
- sect53
- sect54
- sect55
- sect56
- sect57
- sect58
- sect59
- sect60
- sect61
- sect62
- sect63
- sect64
- sect65
- sect66
- sect67
- sect68
- sect69
- sect70
- sect71
- sect72
- sect73
- sect74
- sect75
- sect76
- sect77
- sect78
- sect79
- sect80
- sect81
- sect82
- sect83
- sect84
- sect85
- sect86
- sect87
- sect88
- sect89
- sect90
- sect91
- sect92
- sect93
- sect94
- sect95
- sect96
- sect97
- sect98
- sect99
- sect100
- sect101
- sect102
- sect103
- sect104
- sect105
- sect106
- sect107
- sect108
- sect109
- sect110
- sect111
- sect112
- sect113
- sect114
- sect115
- sect116
- sect117
- sect118
- sect119
- sect120
- sect121
- sect122
- sect123
- sect124
- sect125
- sect126
- sect127
- sect128
- sect129
- sect130
- sect131
- sect132
- sect133
- sect134
- sect135
- sect136
- sect137
- sect138
- sect139
- sect140
- sect141
- sect142
- sect143
- sect144
- sect145
- sect146
- sect147
- sect148
- sect149
- sect150
- sect151
- sect152
- sect153
- sect154
- sect155
- sect156
- sect157
- sect158
- sect159
- sect160
- sect161
- sect162
- sect163
- sect164
- sect165
- sect166
- sect167
- sect168
- sect169
- sect170
- sect171
- sect172
- sect173
- sect174
- sect175
- sect176
- sect177
- sect178
- sect179
- sect180
- sect181
- sect182
- sect183
- sect184
- sect185
- sect186
- sect187
- sect188
- sect189
- sect190
- sect191
- sect192
- sect193
- sect194
- sect195
- sect196
- sect197
- sect198
- sect199
- part2
- sect200
- sect201
- sect202
- sect203
- sect204
- sect205
- sect206
- sect207
- sect208
- sect209
- sect210
- sect211
- sect212
- sect213
- sect214
- sect215
- sect216
- sect217
- sect218
- sect219
- sect220
- sect221
- sect222
- sect223
- sect224
- sect225
- sect226
- sect227
- sect228
- sect229
- sect230
- sect231
- sect232
- sect233
- sect234
- sect235
- sect236
- sect237
- sect238
- sect239
- sect240
- sect241
- sect242
- sect243
- sect244
- sect245
- sect246
- sect247
- sect248
- sect249
- sect250
- sect251
- sect252
- sect253
- sect254
- sect255
- sect256
- sect257
- sect258
- sect259
- sect260
- sect261
- sect262
- sect263
- sect264
- sect265
- sect266
- sect267
- sect268
- sect269
- sect270
- sect271
- sect272
- sect273
- sect274
- sect275
- sect276
- sect277
- sect278
- sect279
- sect280
- sect281
- sect282
- sect283
- sect284
- sect285
- sect286
- sect287
- sect288
- sect289
- sect290
- sect291
- sect292
- sect293
- sect294
- sect295
- sect296
- sect297
- sect298
- sect299
- sect300
- sect301
- sect302
- sect303
- sect304
- sect305
- sect306
- sect307
- sect308
- sect309
- sect310
- sect311
- sect312
- sect313
- sect314
- sect315
- sect316
- sect317
- sect318
- sect319
- sect320
- sect321
- sect322
- sect323
- sect324
- sect325
- sect326
- sect327
- sect328
- sect329
- sect330
- sect331
- sect332
- sect333
- sect334
- sect335
- sect336
- sect337
- sect338
- sect339
- sect340
- sect341
- sect342
- sect343
- sect344
- sect345
- sect346
- sect347
- sect348
- sect349
- sect350
- sect351
- sect352
- sect353
- sect354
- sect355
- sect356
- sect357
- sect358
- sect359
- sect360
- sect361
- sect362
- sect363
- sect364
- sect365
- sect366
- sect367
- sect368
- sect369
- sect370
- sect371
- sect372
- sect373
- sect374
- sect375
- sect376
- sect377
- sect378
- sect379
- sect380
- sect381
- sect382
- sect383
- sect384
- sect385
- sect386
- sect387
- sect388
- sect389
- sect390
- sect391
- sect392
- sect393
- sect394
- sect395
- sect396
- sect397
- sect398
- sect399
- sect400
- ill1
- ill2
- ill3
- ill4
- ill5
- ill6
- ill7
- ill8
- ill9
- ill10
- ill11
- ill12
- ill13
- ill14
- ill15
- ill16
- ill17
- ill18
- ill19
- ill20
- passing
- map
- action
- crsumary
- crtable
- random
- errata
- footnotz
- illstrat
- license
- };
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl -w
-#
-# Sort Correction HTML
-#
-# Sorts input correction HTML. Can also filter out corrections for undesired
-# books.
-#
-# Assumes that corrections appear one per line. Good practice would be to pipe
-# the output of corrtohtml.pl to this function:
-#
-# corrtohtml.pl corrections | sortcorrhtml.pl
-#
-################################################################################
-
-use strict;
-
-my $progName = "sortcorrhtml";
-my $usage = "$progName [options]\n" .
- "\t-b bookcode exclude corrections specified for other books\n" .
- "\t-s strip book tags\n" .
- "\t-v verbose reporting\n";
-
-my $optsProcessed = 0;
-my $bookCode = "";
-my $bookCodeReport = "";
-my $stripBookInfo = 0;
-my $includeUnspecifiedBook = 0;
-my $verbose = 0;
-
-while( $#ARGV > -1 && not $optsProcessed ) {
- my $commandLineItem = shift @ARGV;
- if( $commandLineItem eq "-b" ) {
- $bookCode = shift @ARGV or die $usage;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-s" ) {
- $stripBookInfo = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "-v" ) {
- $verbose = 1;
- }
- elsif( $commandLineItem eq "--help" ) {
- print $usage and exit;
- }
- else {
- unshift @ARGV, $commandLineItem;
- $optsProcessed = 1;
- }
-}
-
-if( $verbose ) {
- $bookCodeReport = " [$bookCode]";
-}
-
-my @bookSortOrder = &getBookSortOrder( );
-my @sectSortOrder = &getSectSortOrder( );
-
-my %buckets = ( );
-
-my $corrRegex = qr{^.+?(<!--[[:space:]]*([^-]+?)[[:space:]]*-->)?<a href="([^.]+)[^#]+#([[:digit:]]*)};
-
-my $bookRegex;
-if( $bookCode ne "" ) {
- $bookRegex = qr{^.+?(<!--[[:space:]]*($bookCode)[[:space:]]*-->)<a href="([^.]+).htm};
-}
-
-my $stripRegex;
-if( $bookCode ne "" ) {
- $stripRegex = qr{<!--[[:space:]]*$bookCode[[:space:]]*-->};
-}
-else {
- $stripRegex = qr{<!--[[:space:]]*[^-]+?[[:space:]]*-->};
-}
-
-my @lines = <>;
-my $maxIssue = 0;
-
-foreach my $line (@lines) {
- if( $bookCode ne "" ) {
- ($line =~ m{$bookRegex}) or next; # skip other books
- }
-
- ($line =~ m{$corrRegex}) or die( "Error ($progName)$bookCodeReport: unrecognized correction: $line\n" );
- my( $book, $sect, $issue ) = ($2, $3, $4);
- $book = "unknown" unless defined $book;
- $issue = "unassigned" unless defined $issue && $issue ne "";
- $buckets{$book} = { } unless exists $buckets{$book};
- $buckets{$book}->{$sect} = { } unless exists $buckets{$book}->{$sect};
- $buckets{$book}->{$sect}->{$issue} = [ ] unless exists $buckets{$book}->{$sect}->{$issue};
-
- if( $stripBookInfo ) {
- $line =~ s/$stripRegex//;
- }
-
- if( $issue ne "unassigned" && $issue > $maxIssue ) { $maxIssue = $issue; }
-
- push @{$buckets{$book}->{$sect}->{$issue}}, $line;
-}
-
-foreach my $bookKey (keys %buckets) {
- my $found = 0;
- foreach my $book (@bookSortOrder) {
- if( $bookKey eq $book ) { $found = 1; }
- }
- unless( $found ) { die( "Error ($progName)$bookCodeReport: unknown book code: $bookKey\n" ); }
-
- foreach my $sectKey (keys %{$buckets{$bookKey}}) {
- $found = 0;
- foreach my $sect (@sectSortOrder) {
- if( $sectKey eq $sect ) { $found = 1; }
- }
- unless( $found ) { die( "Error ($progName)$bookCodeReport: unknown section: $sectKey\n" ); }
- }
-}
-
-for( my $i = 0; $i <= $#bookSortOrder; ++$i ) {
- for( my $j = 0; $j <= $#sectSortOrder; ++$j ) {
- for( my $k = 0; $k <= $maxIssue; ++$k ) {
- print @{$buckets{$bookSortOrder[$i]}->{$sectSortOrder[$j]}->{$k}} if exists $buckets{$bookSortOrder[$i]} && exists $buckets{$bookSortOrder[$i]}->{$sectSortOrder[$j]} && exists $buckets{$bookSortOrder[$i]}->{$sectSortOrder[$j]}->{$k};
- }
- while( $#{$buckets{$bookSortOrder[$i]}->{$sectSortOrder[$j]}->{'unassigned'}} > -1 ) {
- print shift @{$buckets{$bookSortOrder[$i]}->{$sectSortOrder[$j]}->{'unassigned'}};
- }
- }
-}
-
-################################################################################
-
-sub getBookSortOrder {
- return qw{
- unknown
- 01fftd
- 02fotw
- 03tcok
- 04tcod
- 05sots
- 06tkot
- 07cd
- 08tjoh
- 09tcof
- 10tdot
- 11tpot
- 12tmod
- 13tplor
- 14tcok
- 15tdc
- 16tlov
- 17tdoi
- 18dotd
- 19wb
- 20tcon
- 21votm
- 22tbos
- 23mh
- 24rw
- 25totw
- 26tfobm
- 27v
- 28thos
- 01gstw
- 02tfc
- 03btng
- 04wotw
- 01hh
- 02smr
- 03toz
- 04cc
- tmc
- rh
- };
-}
-
-sub getSectSortOrder {
- return qw{
- _unknown
- toc
- title
- dedicate
- acknwldg
- coming
- tssf
- gamerulz
- discplnz
- powers
- equipmnt
- cmbtrulz
- lorecrcl
- levels
- imprvdsc
- kaiwisdm
- sage
- numbered
- part1
- sect1
- sect2
- sect3
- sect4
- sect5
- sect6
- sect7
- sect8
- sect9
- sect10
- sect11
- sect12
- sect13
- sect14
- sect15
- sect16
- sect17
- sect18
- sect19
- sect20
- sect21
- sect22
- sect23
- sect24
- sect25
- sect26
- sect27
- sect28
- sect29
- sect30
- sect31
- sect32
- sect33
- sect34
- sect35
- sect36
- sect37
- sect38
- sect39
- sect40
- sect41
- sect42
- sect43
- sect44
- sect45
- sect46
- sect47
- sect48
- sect49
- sect50
- sect51
- sect52
- sect53
- sect54
- sect55
- sect56
- sect57
- sect58
- sect59
- sect60
- sect61
- sect62
- sect63
- sect64
- sect65
- sect66
- sect67
- sect68
- sect69
- sect70
- sect71
- sect72
- sect73
- sect74
- sect75
- sect76
- sect77
- sect78
- sect79
- sect80
- sect81
- sect82
- sect83
- sect84
- sect85
- sect86
- sect87
- sect88
- sect89
- sect90
- sect91
- sect92
- sect93
- sect94
- sect95
- sect96
- sect97
- sect98
- sect99
- sect100
- sect101
- sect102
- sect103
- sect104
- sect105
- sect106
- sect107
- sect108
- sect109
- sect110
- sect111
- sect112
- sect113
- sect114
- sect115
- sect116
- sect117
- sect118
- sect119
- sect120
- sect121
- sect122
- sect123
- sect124
- sect125
- sect126
- sect127
- sect128
- sect129
- sect130
- sect131
- sect132
- sect133
- sect134
- sect135
- sect136
- sect137
- sect138
- sect139
- sect140
- sect141
- sect142
- sect143
- sect144
- sect145
- sect146
- sect147
- sect148
- sect149
- sect150
- sect151
- sect152
- sect153
- sect154
- sect155
- sect156
- sect157
- sect158
- sect159
- sect160
- sect161
- sect162
- sect163
- sect164
- sect165
- sect166
- sect167
- sect168
- sect169
- sect170
- sect171
- sect172
- sect173
- sect174
- sect175
- sect176
- sect177
- sect178
- sect179
- sect180
- sect181
- sect182
- sect183
- sect184
- sect185
- sect186
- sect187
- sect188
- sect189
- sect190
- sect191
- sect192
- sect193
- sect194
- sect195
- sect196
- sect197
- sect198
- sect199
- part2
- sect200
- sect201
- sect202
- sect203
- sect204
- sect205
- sect206
- sect207
- sect208
- sect209
- sect210
- sect211
- sect212
- sect213
- sect214
- sect215
- sect216
- sect217
- sect218
- sect219
- sect220
- sect221
- sect222
- sect223
- sect224
- sect225
- sect226
- sect227
- sect228
- sect229
- sect230
- sect231
- sect232
- sect233
- sect234
- sect235
- sect236
- sect237
- sect238
- sect239
- sect240
- sect241
- sect242
- sect243
- sect244
- sect245
- sect246
- sect247
- sect248
- sect249
- sect250
- sect251
- sect252
- sect253
- sect254
- sect255
- sect256
- sect257
- sect258
- sect259
- sect260
- sect261
- sect262
- sect263
- sect264
- sect265
- sect266
- sect267
- sect268
- sect269
- sect270
- sect271
- sect272
- sect273
- sect274
- sect275
- sect276
- sect277
- sect278
- sect279
- sect280
- sect281
- sect282
- sect283
- sect284
- sect285
- sect286
- sect287
- sect288
- sect289
- sect290
- sect291
- sect292
- sect293
- sect294
- sect295
- sect296
- sect297
- sect298
- sect299
- sect300
- sect301
- sect302
- sect303
- sect304
- sect305
- sect306
- sect307
- sect308
- sect309
- sect310
- sect311
- sect312
- sect313
- sect314
- sect315
- sect316
- sect317
- sect318
- sect319
- sect320
- sect321
- sect322
- sect323
- sect324
- sect325
- sect326
- sect327
- sect328
- sect329
- sect330
- sect331
- sect332
- sect333
- sect334
- sect335
- sect336
- sect337
- sect338
- sect339
- sect340
- sect341
- sect342
- sect343
- sect344
- sect345
- sect346
- sect347
- sect348
- sect349
- sect350
- sect351
- sect352
- sect353
- sect354
- sect355
- sect356
- sect357
- sect358
- sect359
- sect360
- sect361
- sect362
- sect363
- sect364
- sect365
- sect366
- sect367
- sect368
- sect369
- sect370
- sect371
- sect372
- sect373
- sect374
- sect375
- sect376
- sect377
- sect378
- sect379
- sect380
- sect381
- sect382
- sect383
- sect384
- sect385
- sect386
- sect387
- sect388
- sect389
- sect390
- sect391
- sect392
- sect393
- sect394
- sect395
- sect396
- sect397
- sect398
- sect399
- sect400
- ill1
- ill2
- ill3
- ill4
- ill5
- ill6
- ill7
- ill8
- ill9
- ill10
- ill11
- ill12
- ill13
- ill14
- ill15
- ill16
- ill17
- ill18
- ill19
- ill20
- passing
- map
- action
- crsumary
- crtable
- random
- errata
- footnotz
- illstrat
- license
- };
-}
+++ /dev/null
-#!/usr/bin/perl
-#
-# xmlize.pl
-#
-# $Id$
-#
-# $Log$
-# Revision 1.1 2005/04/26 04:48:03 jonathan.blake
-# Initial revision
-#
-# Revision 1.2 2002/10/20 05:46:31 jblake
-# Fixed a couple of bugs in the handling of carriage returns and
-# added support for Freeway Warrior's CLOSE COMBAT SKILL.
-#
-# Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 03:18:35 jblake
-# Initial revision
-#
-#
-# 21 Jun 2002 - Fixed bug in tagging of character-attributes
-# 06 May 2002 - Incorporated funcionality of xmlize-all
-# 20 Oct 2001 - Added more spaces to xmlized lines to make 'em purty
-# in the final product
-# 19 May 2001 - Updated to conform to new gamebook DTD
-# 17 Apr 2001 - Repurposed as XMLizer
-# 24 Feb 2001 - Commented out some of the filtering in favor of
-# placing it in a separate script
-# 22 Feb 2000 - Added filtering for &
-# Padding ENDURANCE in combat <p> with spaces
-# 21 Feb 2000 - Added filtering for \t
-# 05 Feb 2000 - Added Action Chart linking
-# Added [] centering
-# Fixed the "A Giak" caps problem
-#
-######################################################################
-
-#use strict;
-
-#### Subroutines
-
-sub xmlize {
- my( $inline, $infile ) = @_;
-
- $inline =~ s/(\.\.\.|\.\s\.\s\.)/\&ellips\;/g;
- $inline =~ tr/\t/ /;
- $inline =~ s/\s{2,}/ /g;
- $inline =~ s/\s+$//;
- $inline =~ s/\&\s/\&\; /g;
- $inline =~ tr/\"\`\222\221/\'/;
- $inline =~ s/(Random\sNumber\sTable)/<a idref=\"random\">$1<\/a>/gi;
- $inline =~ s/(Action\sCharts?)/<a idref=\"action\">$1<\/a>/gi;
- # \222 and \221 are some form of funky right and
- # left quotes not present in ascii (of course)
- $inline =~ tr/\227/-/;
- # \227 is an em or en dash
-
- $inline =~ s/^\s*(.*)\s*$/$1/;
-
- if( $inline =~ /^\*/ ) {
- $inline =~ s/^\*\s*/ <ul>\n <li>/;
- $inline =~ s/\s*\*\s*/<\/li>\n <li>/g;
- $inline .= "</li>\n </ul>";
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^\d+\)\s/ ) {
- $inline =~ s/^\d+\)\s+/ <ol>\n <li>/;
- $inline =~ s/\s*\d+\)\s+/<\/li>\n <li>/g;
- $inline .= "</li>\n </ol>";
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^\<\!\-\-\spre\s\-\-\>/ ) {
- $inline =~ s/^\<\!\-\-\spre\s\-\-\>//;
- warn( "Warning: preformatted text in \"$infile\"\n" );
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^.+:\s+CLOSE\sCOMBAT\sSKILL/ ) {
- $inline =~ s/^(.+):\s+CLOSE\sCOMBAT\sSKILL\s+([0-9]+)\s+ENDURANCE\s+([0-9]+)/ <combat><enemy>$1<\/enemy><enemy-attribute class=\"closecombatskill\">$2<\/enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class=\"endurance\">$3<\/enemy-attribute><\/combat>/g;
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^.+:\s+COMBAT\sSKILL/ ) {
- $inline =~ s/^(.+):\s+COMBAT\sSKILL\s+([0-9]+)\s+ENDURANCE\s+([0-9]+)/ <combat><enemy>$1<\/enemy><enemy-attribute class=\"combatskill\">$2<\/enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class=\"endurance\">$3<\/enemy-attribute><\/combat>/;
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^(.*)\b(return|turn|go)([a-zA-Z\s]+?to )(\d{1,3})/i ) {
- $inline =~ s/^(.*)\b(return|turn|go)([a-zA-Z\s]+?to )(\d{1,3})(.*)/ <choice idref=\"sect$4\">$1<link-text>$2$3$4<\/link-text>$5<\/choice>/i;
- $inline =~ s/\s+<\/choice>/<\/choice>/;
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^\[/ ) {
- $inline =~ s/\[(.*)\]/$1/;
- $inline = " <signpost>$inline</signpost>";
- $inline =~ s/\s+<\/signpost>/<\/signpost>/;
- }
- elsif( $inline eq "" ) {
- }
- elsif( $inline =~ /^<!--(.*)-->/ ) {
- warn( "Warning: unknown comment \"$1\" in \"$infile\"\n" );
- }
- else {
- $inline = " <p>$inline</p>";
- $inline =~ s/\s+<\/p>/<\/p>/;
- }
-
-# Interferes with selecting a combat paragraph if done earlier
- $inline =~ s/(COMBAT\sSKILL|CLOSE\sCOMBAT\sSKILL|ENDURANCE|WILLPOWER|\bCS\b|\bEP\b)([^<])/<typ class="attribute">$1<\/typ>$2/g;
-
- return $inline;
-}
-
-#### Main Routine
-
-my $numberOfSections = shift @ARGV;
-
-print << "(End of XML Header)";
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd" [
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.characters SYSTEM "htmlchar.mod">
- <!ENTITY % latex.characters SYSTEM "ltexchar.mod">
- %xhtml.characters;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.links SYSTEM "genlink.mod">
- %general.links;
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.links SYSTEM "htmllink.mod">
- %xhtml.links;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.inclusions SYSTEM "geninc.mod">
- %general.inclusions;
-]>
-
-<gamebook xml:lang="en-UK" version="0.10">
-
-<!--
-
-\$Id\$
-
-\$Log\$
-
--->
- <meta>
- <title>[Insert Title]</title>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <!-- Frontmatter -->
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-(End of XML Header)
-
-for( my $sectionNumber = 1; $sectionNumber <= $numberOfSections; ++$sectionNumber ) {
-
- my $infile = "${sectionNumber}.txt";
-
- open( INFILE, "<$infile" ) or die "Input file \"$infile\" is not readable.\n";
-
- my @oldlines = ( );
- @oldlines = <INFILE>;
-
- close INFILE;
-
- my $title = shift @oldlines;
- my $section = shift @oldlines;
- my $illustration = shift @oldlines;
- chomp $illustration;
- $illustration =~ s/^Illustration\s+(\d+)\s+/$1/;
- $illustration =~ s/\r//g;
- shift @oldlines if( $illustration ne "" );
-
- my @newlines = ( "" );
- my $newline;
-
- # Parsing waits for an empty line to XMLize and store
- # the preceding lines.
- push( @oldlines, "" ) if( @oldlines[ $#oldlines ] ne "" );
-
- foreach my $oldline (@oldlines) {
- $oldline =~ s/\r|\n/ /g;
- $oldline =~ s/^\s*(\S*)\s*$/$1/;
- $oldline =~ s/\s\s/ /;
- if( $oldline ne "" ) {
- $newline .= (" " . $oldline);
- }
- else {
- $newline = &xmlize( $newline, $infile );
- $newline .= "\n" if( $newline ne "" );
- push( @newlines, $newline );
- $newline = "";
- }
- }
-
- print "\n\n <section class=\"numbered\" id=\"sect$sectionNumber\">\n <meta><title>$sectionNumber</title></meta>\n\n <data>\n";
- print @newlines;
- print " </data>\n </section>";
-}
-
-print << "(End of XML footer)";
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <!-- Backmatter -->
-
- </data>
- </section>
-</gamebook>
-(End of XML footer)
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd" [
- <!ENTITY % general.links SYSTEM "genlink.mod">
- %general.links;
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.links SYSTEM "htmllink.mod">
- %xhtml.links;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.inclusions SYSTEM "geninc.mod">
- %general.inclusions;
-]>
-
-<gamebook xml:lang="en-UK" version="0.11">
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 2.0 2006/03/27 19:20:27 jonathan.blake
-Minor change
-
-Revision 1.4 2006/03/24 20:05:31 jonathan.blake
-Fixed small transcription errors.
-
-Revision 1.3 2006/03/24 00:24:49 jonathan.blake
-Corrected some XML usage issues and tidied it up for publication.
-
-Revision 1.2 2006/03/15 22:06:47 jonathan.blake
-Changed all character entities to <ch.*/> although they should probably be written encoded characters
-
-Revision 1.1 2006/03/13 18:30:13 cvsuser
-Add new file
-
-Revision 1.15 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.14 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
-
-Revision 1.13 2002/12/04 06:20:29 jblake
-Cleanup.
-
-Revision 1.12 2002/11/17 04:22:21 jblake
-Fixed standardization issues.
-
-Revision 1.11 2002/11/14 17:42:48 jblake
-Corrected illustration dimensions, updated wording of
-footnotes, and changed some pending errata.
-
-Revision 1.10 2002/11/12 18:48:27 jblake
-Revision of illustration placement and fix of
-interbook links.
-
-Revision 1.9 2002/11/10 04:35:31 jblake
-Fixed issues with the markup of the illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.8 2002/10/27 00:57:43 jblake
-Fixed minor validity problems.
-
-Revision 1.7 2002/10/27 00:26:52 jblake
-jdougan - added secondary illustrations in front matter and text.
-Sizes standardized to 180x180 and need correction.
-
-Revision 1.6 2002/10/24 17:56:23 jblake
-Fixed a the previous log entry that made the comment end
-prematurely.
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/10/24 16:22:27 jblake
-Added an XML acknowledgement and corrected a misspelling: "Summerlund".
-
-Revision 1.4 2002/10/24 15:50:47 jblake
-Removed references to the Rules Clarifications - now obsolete.
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/10/24 15:23:49 jblake
-* Corrected lack of paragraphs in paragraphed lists
-* Renamed Section Clarifications to Footnotes and corrected
- the associated links
-* Indented the numbered sections
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/23 05:22:17 jblake
-Standardized the references to JC Alvarez.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:19:33 jblake
-Initial revision
-
--->
-
-<!--
-
-Todo:
-
-* Create alternate table of illustrations for Alvarez
-* so far, Alvarez illustrations included only in HTML
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Huida de la Oscuridad</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever y Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Ilustrado por Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.gary.chalk.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Proyecto Aon Español</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2006</year><month>3</month><day>26</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>Eres Lobo Solitario. En un devastador ataque los señores de la Oscuridad han destruído el monasterio donde aprendías las disciplinas de los señores del Kai.</p>
- <p>Eres ahora el único superviviente.</p>
- <p>Juras tomar venganza de esa destrucción. Pero primero debes ir a Holmgard para prevenir al Rey del inminente peligro. Los señores de la Oscuridad te persiguen sin darte tregua por todo el país y en cada página del libro tienes que enfrentarte a nuevos retos. Elige cuidadosamente tus disciplinas y tus armas, pues pueden ayudarte a triunfar en el viaje más fantástico y terrorífico de tu vida.</p>
- <p>Lobo Solitario es una apasionante serie de aventuras en las que tú eres el protagonista, tú tomas las decisiones y tú libras los combates utilizando únicamente los métodos que se indican en los libros.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Edición de Internet publicada por <a href="&link.project.website;">Proyecto Aon Español</a>. Esta edición trata de reflejar fielmente el texto completo de la versión original. Allí donde se han hecho mínimas correcciones, viene notificado en las <a idref="errata">Erratas</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Copyright del texto <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.<br />Copyright de las ilustraciones <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Copyright del texto <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.<br />Copyright de las ilustraciones <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.<br />La distribución de esta Edición de Internet está restringida bajo los términos de la <a idref="license">Licencia del Proyecto Aon</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Índice</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedicatoria</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">A Mel y Yin</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Agradecimientos</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Estaría especialmente encantado si la cesión de los derechos para distribuir mis libros a través de este medio se entendiera como mi <quote>regalo del milenio</quote> para todos aquellos devotos lectores que han mantenido la bandera del Kai ondeando alto, a través de todos los buenos momentos, y también en los no tan buenos. Me haría sentir muy orgulloso si esta inciativa pusiera los cimientos de una herencia duradera, asegurando la longevidad de Lobo Solitario haciendo mi creación libre y accesible fácilmente en la red para las actuales y futuras genereaciones. Por ellos, por nosotros, por Sommerlund y el Kai<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Proyecto Aon quiere, en primer lugar, agradecer a Joe Dever el hecho de ofrecernos generosamente los libros que tanto hemos amado desde su comienzo. También queremos mostrar nuestro agradecimiento y reconocimiento a los siguientes miembros del Proyecto Aon por su exhaustivo trabajo:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Créditos</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcripción</dt>
- <dd>Raúl Moreno</dd>
- <dt>Edición de ilustraciones</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>Edición XML</dt>
- <dd>Raúl Moreno</dd>
- <dt>Ilustraciones alternativas</dt>
- <dd>Alejandro Colucci (ilustraciones de la reedición de Timun Mas)<br />JC Álvarez (ilustraciones del texto y Carta de Acción)<br />Jonathan Blake (otros gráficos y tablas)<br />Michael Hahn (mapa)</dd>
- <dt>Lectores de prueba</dt>
- <dd>Juan Pablo Fernández (Lectura general del libro)<br />José Daniel Casado (Lectura general del libro)</dd>
- <dt>Edición PDF</dt>
- <dd>Javier Fernández-Sanguino</dd>
- <dt>Coordinación general</dt>
- <dd>Raúl Moreno</dd>
- <dt>Agradecimientos especiales</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake (y por extensión al resto de Proyecto Aon)</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>El Principio de la Historia</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el país nórdico de Sommerlund, durante siglos ha sido costumbre de los señores guerreros enviar a sus hijos al monasterio del Kai. Allí éstos son instruidos en las destrezas y disciplinas de sus nobles padres.</p>
- <p>Los monjes del Kai son maestros en su arte y los niños a su cargo les aman y respetan a pesar de la dureza de su adiestramiento. Pues un día, cuando hayan aprendido las especialidades secretas del Kai, volverán a sus casas equipados en cuerpo y mente para defenderse de la constante amenaza de guerra de los señores de la Oscuridad de Occidente.</p>
- <p>En tiempos pasados, durante la Edad de la Luna Negra, los señores de la Oscuridad hicieron la guerra contra Sommerlund. El conflicto fue una larga y encarnizada prueba de fuerza que concluyó con la victoria de Sommerlund en la gran batalla de la garganta de Maaken. El rey Ulnar y sus aliados de Durenor derrotaron a los ejércitos de los señores de la Oscuridad en el desfiladero de Moytura y les obligaron a retroceder hacia el abismo insondable de la garganta de Maaken. Vashna, el más poderoso de los señores de la Oscuridad, fue muerto por la espada del rey Ulnar, llamada Sommerswerd, la espada del sol. Desde entonces, los señores de la Oscuridad han jurado venganza contra Sommerlund y la dinastía de Ulnar.</p>
- <p>Hoy es el día de la fiesta de Fehmarh, cuando todos los señores del Kai se reúnen en el monasterio para asistir a la celebración. Es por la mañana. De repente una gran nube negra aparece en el horizonte por el oeste. Innumerables bestias de alas negras llenan el cielo hasta tal punto que el sol queda oculto por completo. Los señores de la Oscuridad, los inveterados enemigos de Sommerlund, atacan. La guerra ha comenzado.</p>
- <p>En esa mañana aciaga, tú, Lobo Silencioso (nombre que te ha sido puesto por el Kai), has sido enviado al bosque a recoger leña en castigo por tu falta de atención en clase. Cuando te dispones a regresar, descubres con horror una enorme y oscura nube de criaturas aladas que se precipitan sobre el monasterio.</p>
- <p>Arrojas al suelo la carga de leña y corres hacia la batalla que ya se ha entablado. Pero en la oscuridad artificial tropiezas y te golpeas la cabeza con la rama baja de un árbol. Al perder el conocimiento, lo último que ves a esa escasa luz son los muros del monasterio desplomándose.</p>
- <p>Permaneces muchas horas sin sentido antes de despertar. Ahora, con lágrimas en los ojos, contemplas la escena de destrucción. Alzando el rostro hacia el cielo azul juras vengarte de los Señores de la Oscuridad por la matanza de los guerreros del Kai. De pronto comprendes con toda claridad lo que debes hacer. Debes emprender un peligroso viaje a la capital para avisar al Rey de la terrible amenaza que se cierne sobre su pueblo. Pues ahora tú eres el último de los guerreros del Kai, ahora eres Lobo Solitario.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="tssf.gif" width="386" height="300" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Las Reglas del Juego</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Anotarás los resultados de tu aventura en la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>Durante tu instrucción como señor del Kai has adquirido pericia para la lucha, <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>, y aguante fisico, <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Antes de iniciar la aventura necesitas medir el grado de efectividad de tu aprendizaje. Para realizar esta evaluación toma un lápiz y, con los ojos cerrados, coloca el extremo no afilado sobre la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>. Si el lápiz señala 0, no cuenta.</p>
- <p>El primer número que obtengas de este modo representa tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>. Suma 10 a ese número y escribe el total en la casilla <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> de tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> (por ejemplo, si el lápiz apunta al 4 en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>, anota 14 en el recuadro <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>). Cuando tengas que luchar, tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> se opondrá a la de tu enemigo. Por eso es deseable tener una elevada puntuación en este apartado.</p>
- <p>El segundo número que elegirás en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a> representa tu capacidad de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Suma 20 a ese número y escribe el total en la casilla <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> (por ejemplo, si el lápiz señala el número 6 de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>, tendrás 26 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>).</p>
- <p>Si eres herido en el combate, pierdes puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Si en algún momento tus puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> descienden hasta cero, habrás muerto y la aventura habrá terminado. Los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> perdidos pueden ser recuperados en el transcurso de la aventura, pero la suma de dichos puntos nunca puede exceder del número total con el que has comenzado esta aventura.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Disciplinas del Kai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Durante siglos los monjes del Kai han sido maestros en las artes marciales. Estas artes reciben el nombre de disciplinas del Kai y se enseñan a todos los señores del Kai. Tú sólo has aprendido cinco de las disciplinas que se enumeran a continuación. La elección de las mismas puedes hacerla tú. Dado que todas estas disciplinas te serán de utilidad en algún momento de tu peligroso viaje, elígelas con cuidado. La correcta aplicación de una disciplina en el momento adecuado puede salvarte la vida.</p>
- <p>Cuando hayas escogido tus cinco disciplinas, anótalas en el recuadro DISCIPLINAS DEL KAI de tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="camflage">
- <meta><title>Camuflaje</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Esta disciplina posibilita a un señor del Kai confundirse con el medio que le rodea. En el campo puede ocultarse entre los árboles sin ser descubierto y pasar cerca de un enemigo sin ser visto. En una aldea o ciudad le permite parecer y hablar como un nativo de esa región y puede ayudarle a encontrar refugio o un lugar seguro donde esconderse.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Camuflaje</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hunting">
- <meta><title>Caza</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Esta disciplina garantiza a un señor del Kai que nunca morirá de hambre en el bosque. Siempre será capaz de cazar para obtener alimento, excepto en tierras yermas o desiertas. Esta habilidad también capacita a un señor del Kai para moverse con precaución cuando persigue a su presa. Si eliges esta disciplina, no tendrás necesidad de buscar comida cuando se ordena comer.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Caza: no hay necesidad de buscar comida cuando se ordena comer</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sixthsns">
- <meta><title>Sexto sentido</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Esta disciplina avisa a un señor del Kai del inminente peligro. También le revela el verdadero propósito de un extranjero o de un objeto extraño encontrado en su aventura.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Sexto sentido</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tracking">
- <meta><title>Rastreo</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gracias a esta disciplina, un señor del Kai toma el sendero más conveniente en el bosque, localiza a una persona u objeto en una aldea o ciudad y descifra huellas y rastros.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Rastreo</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="healing">
- <meta><title>Curación</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Esta disciplina puede utilizarse para reponer los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> perdidos en combate. Si posees esta destreza, puedes recuperar un punto de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> cada vez que pases por una sección del libro sin entrar en combate. Pero sólo puede ser usada si tus puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> han disminuido con respecto al número inicial. Recuerda que nunca pueden sobrepasarlo.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Curación: +1 punto de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> por cada sección sin combate</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wepnskll">
- <meta><title>Dominio en el manejo de armas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el monasterio del Kai, cada iniciado aprende a dominar un tipo de arma. Si este dominio ha de ser una de tus disciplinas, elige al azar un número en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>. El arma de las representadas a continuación a la que corresponda ese número será la que tú domines. Cada vez que luches llevando ese arma, sumarás 2 puntos a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>.</p>
- <p>El hecho de que domines un arma no quiere decir que inicies la aventura llevando ese arma concreta. Sin embargo, tendrás oportunidad de adquirir armas a lo largo de tu aventura. Si te toca el hacha, habrás tenido mucha suerte, pues ésta es la única arma que Lobo Solitario lleva desde el comienzo de la aventura, como se explica más detalladamente en el apartado dedicado al <a idref="equipmnt">equipo</a>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = DAGA</li>
- <li>1 = LANZA</li>
- <li>2 = MAZA</li>
- <li>3 = ESPADA CORTA</li>
- <li>4 = MARTILLO DE GUERRA</li>
- <li>5 = ESPADA</li>
- <li>6 = HACHA</li>
- <li>7 = ESPADA</li>
- <li>8 = ESTACA</li>
- <li>9 = ESPADÓN</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>No puedes llevar más de 2 armas. Si eliges esta disciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Dominio en el manejo de<ch.ellips/>: +2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> si se lleva este arma</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindshld">
- <meta><title>Defensa psíquica</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los señores de la Oscuridad y muchas de las malvadas criaturas a sus órdenes tienen la habilidad de atacarte usando la fuerza de su mente. La disciplina del Kai de defensa psíquica te libra de perder puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> cuando sufras este tipo de ataques.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Defensa psíquica: no se pierden puntos al ser atacado con acometidas mentales</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mndblst">
- <meta><title>Ataque psíquico</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Esta disciplina permite a un señor del Kai atacar al enemigo con la fuerza de su mente. Puede usarse al mismo tiempo que las armas normales y suma 2 puntos a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>. No todas las criaturas con las que te encontrarás en tu aventura pueden ser dañadas por el ataque psíquico. Cuando una criatura es inmune a este tipo de ataque, se te hace saber.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Ataque psíquico: +2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ></quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlknsp">
- <meta><title>Afinidad animal</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Esta disciplina capacita a un señor del Kai para comunicarse con algunos animales y para adivinar las intenciones de otros.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Afinidad animal</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindomtr">
- <meta><title>Poder mental sobre la materia</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando un señor del Kai domina esta disciplina puede mover pequeños objetos con los poderes de concentración de su mente.</p>
- <p>Si eliges esta diciplina, escribe en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>: <quote>Poder mental sobre la materia</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Si llevas a cabo con éxito la misión propuesta a Lobo Solitario en este primer libro, puedes añadir en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> del <bookref series="ls" book="02fsea" section="title">libro segundo</bookref> otra disciplina del Kai que tú mismo elijas. Esta disciplina adicional, junto con tus otras cinco destrezas y otros objetos especiales que hayas obtenido en el primer libro puedes usarlos en la próxima aventura de Lobo Solitario, que se titula <cite><bookref series="ls" book="02fsea" section="title">Fuego sobre el agua</bookref></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipo</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Vas vestido con el jubón y la capa verdes de un iniciado del Kai. Tienes pocas cosas con las que poder equiparte para sobrevivir.</p>
- <p>Todo lo que posees es un hacha (anótalo bajo el epígrafe Armas en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>) y una mochila conteniendo una comida (anótalo bajo el epígrafe Comidas en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>).</p>
- <p>Colgada del cinturón llevas una bolsa de cuero que contiene Coronas de oro. Para averiguar cuántas tienes, elige un número al azar de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>. Este número te indica la cantidad de Coronas de oro que posees al comienzo de la aventura (anota el número en la casilla Bolsa de la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>).</p>
- <p>Entre las humeantes ruinas del monasterio descubres un <a idref="map">mapa de Sommerlund</a> (anótalo entre los Objetos especiales en la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>) en el que figuran Holmgard, la capital, y muy al este el país de Durenor. Guarda el <a idref="map">mapa</a> dentro de tu jubón por razones de seguridad.</p>
- <p>También encuentras uno de los siguientes objetos:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>1 = ESPADA (Armas)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 = CASCO (Objetos especiales). Suma 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> a tu total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="helmet.gif" width="150" height="46" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="helmet.pdf" width="150" height="46" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>3 = Dos COMIDAS (Comidas)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="178" height="41" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="178" height="41" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>4 = COTA DE MALLA (Objetos especiales). Suma 4 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> a tu total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mail.gif" width="95" height="121" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mail.pdf" width="95" height="121" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>5 = MAZA (Armas)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>6 = POCIÓN CURATIVA (Objeto de la mochila). Puede hacerte recuperar 4 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de los que hayas perdido en combate. Sólo tienes
-cantidad suficiente para una dosis.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="150" height="62" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="150" height="62" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>7 = ESTACA (Armas)</p></li>
- <li><p>8 = LANZA (Armas)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>9 = 12 CORONAS DE ORO (Bolsa)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="pouch.gif" width="150" height="38" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="pouch.pdf" width="150" height="38" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>0 = ESPADON (Armas)</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>Para descubrir cuál de ellos encuentras, debes elegir un número al azar de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a> y localizar el artículo correspondiente en la lista. Anótalo en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>, bajo el epígrafe indicado entre paréntesis, y toma nota de cualquier efecto que pueda tener sobre tus puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>Cómo llevar el equipo</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Una vez que tienes tu equipo completo, la siguiente lista te indica cómo has de llevarlo. No necesitas tomar notas, pero puedes volver a consultar esta lista en el transcurso de la aventura.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>1 = ESPADA: se lleva en la mano.</li>
- <li>2 = CASCO: se lleva puesto en la cabeza.</li>
- <li>3 = COMIDA: va guardada en la mochila.</li>
- <li>4 = COTA DE MALLA: se lleva puesta alrededor del pecho.</li>
- <li>5 = MAZA: se lleva en la mano.</li>
- <li>6 = POCIÓN CURATIVA: va guardada en la mochila.</li>
- <li>7 = ESTACA: se lleva en la mano.</li>
- <li>8 = LANZA: se lleva en la mano.</li>
- <li>9 = CORONAS DE ORO: se guardan en la bolsa.</li>
- <li>0 = ESPADÓN: se lleva en la mano.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>Cuántos objetos puedes llevar</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Armas</dt>
- <dd>El número máximo de armas que puedes llevar es 2.</dd>
- <dt>Objetos de la mochila</dt>
- <dd>Como la cabida de la mochila es reducida, sólo puedes guardar en ella a la vez un máximo de 8 artículos, incluidas las comidas.</dd>
- <dt>Objetos especiales</dt>
- <dd>Los objetos especiales no se guardan en la mochila. Cuando encuentres alguno, se te indicará cómo has de llevarlo.</dd>
- <dt>Coronas de oro</dt>
- <dd>Se llevan siempre en la bolsa, que no puede contener más de 50 Coronas.</dd>
- <dt>Comida</dt>
- <dd>La comida se guarda en la mochila. Cada comida cuenta como 1 objeto.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Cualquier objeto que pueda serte de utilidad y del que puedas apoderarte durante la aventura y anotarlo en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>, en el texto aparecerá escrito con la inicial en mayúscula. Y a no ser que expresamente se diga que es un objeto especial, lo llevarás en la mochila.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>Cómo utilizar tu equipo</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Armas</dt>
- <dd>Las armas te ayudan en los combates. Si tienes la dísciplina del Kai de dominio en el manejo de armas y el arma adecuada, sumarás 2 puntos a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>. Si entablas combate sin armas, restarás 4 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> y tendrás que luchar con las manos. Si durante la acción encuentras un arma, puedes apoderarte de ella y usarla. (Recuerda que sólo puedes llevar 2 armas a la vez).</dd>
- <dt>Objetos de la mochila</dt>
- <dd>Durante tu viaje descubrirás diversos objetos útiles que puedes querer conservar. (Recuerda que sólo puedes cargar 8 objetos a la vez en la mochila). En cualquier momento en que no estés en combate tienes la posibilidad de cambiarlos o desecharlos.</dd>
- <dt>Objetos especiales</dt>
- <dd>Cada objeto especial tiene una finalidad o un efecto determinados. Unas veces esto se te dirá cuando descubras el objeto, otras te será revelado más adelante conforme avanza la aventura.</dd>
- <dt>Coronas de oro</dt>
- <dd>La moneda de curso legal en Sommerlund es la Corona, una pequeña moneda de oro. Puedes utilizar las Coronas de oro para pagar el transporte o la comida y hasta puedes usarlas como soborno. Muchas de las criaturas con las que te encontrarás poseen Coronas de oro o las tienen escondidas en sus guaridas. Cada vez que mates a una de estas criaturas puedes apropiarte las Coronas de oro que tenga y guardarlas en tu bolsa.</dd>
- <dt>Comida</dt>
- <dd>Necesitarás comer regularmente durante tu aventura. Si no tienes comida cuando se te ordene comer perderás 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Si has elegido la disciplina del Kai de la caza como una de tus cinco destrezas, no tienes necesidad de sacar una comida cuando se te dé la orden de comer.</dd>
- <dt>Poción curativa</dt>
- <dd>Esta poción puede devolverte 4 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de los que hayas perdido en combate. Sólo tienes cantidad suficiente para una dosis. Si durante la aventura encuentras otras pociones curativas, se te informará de cuáles son sus efectos. Todas las pociones curativas son objetos de la mochila.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Reglas para los Combates</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Habrá ocasiones durante tu aventura en que tendrás que luchar con algún enemigo. La <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> y los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> del enemigo se indican en el texto. La finalidad de Lobo Solitario en los combates es matar al enemigo reduciendo a cero sus puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y perdiendo él mismo los menos puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> posible.</p>
- <p>Al comienzo del combate, anota los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de Lobo Solitario y de su enemigo en las casillas correspondientes a resultados de los combates en la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>La secuencia de un combate es la siguiente:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Suma los puntos que hayas ganado gracias a tus disciplinas del Kai al total de tu actual <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Resta de ese total la <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> de tu enemigo. El resultado es tu puntuación en el combate. Anótala en la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>Ejemplo</p>
- <p>Lobo Solitario (<typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> 15) cae en una emboscada que le tiende Diablo Alado (<typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> 20). No existe la posibilidad de que Lobo Solitario eluda el combate. Por tanto debe resistir y luchar cuando la mencionada criatura se precipita sobre él. Lobo Solitario posee la disciplina del Kai de ataque psíquico, así que suma 2 puntos a su <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>, cuyo total será por consiguiente 17.</p>
- <p>De ese total resta la <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> de Diablo Alado, con lo que resulta una puntuación de -3 (17<ch.endash/>20 = -3), que es anotada en la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">Una vez que has obtenido tu puntuación en el combate</a>, elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Consulta la <a idref="crtable">Tabla de resultados de los combates</a>. En la hilera superior de recuadros figuran las distintas puntuaciones posibles de los combates. En la primera columna de la izquierda y en la última de la derecha aparecen los números correspondientes al que has elegido al azar en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>. Busca la casilla en la que se crucen la línea vertical trazada desde el recuadro superior donde aparezca tu puntuación en el combate y la línea horizontal trazada desde el número que hayas elegido al azar en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>. En esa casilla encontrarás los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> que han perdido Lobo Solitario y su enemigo en este asalto. (E representa los puntos perdidos por el enemigo; LS, los puntos perdidos por Lobo Solitario).</p>
- <p>Ejemplo</p>
- <p>La puntuación en el combate entre Lobo Solitario y Diablo Alado ha quedado fijada en -3. Si el número sacado en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a> es un 6, entonces el resultado del primer asalto del combate es:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lobo Solitario pierde 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</li>
- <li>Diablo Alado pierde 6 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>Anota en la <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> los cambios experimentados por los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de los participantes en el combate.</p></li>
- <li><p>A no ser que se te den otras instrucciones o que tengas la opción de eludir el combate, ahora comienza el próximo asalto.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repite la secuencia desde el <a idref="stage3">apartado 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Este proceso de combates continúa hasta que los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> del enemigo o de Lobo Solitario queden reducidos a cero. En ese momento el que tenga cero puntos es declarado muerto. Si el muerto es Lobo Solitario, la aventura habrá terminado. Si el muerto es el enemigo, Lobo Solitario continúa la aventura, pero con sus puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> disminuidos.</p>
- <p>En la página siguiente a la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a> aparece un <a idref="crsumary">resumen de las reglas para los combates</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Eludir el combate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Durante la aventura se te dará a veces la oportunidad de eludir el combate. Si ya has comenzado un asalto y decides rehuirlo, calcula el resultado de la forma habitual. Los puntos perdidos por el enemigo a consecuencia de ese asalto no se contabilizan si tú te evades.
-Únicamente Lobo Solitario puede perder puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> durante ese asalto, pero ése es el riesgo que implica escaparse. Sólo podrás huir si el texto de la sección correspondiente te permite hacerlo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Niveles de Entrenamiento Kai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El cuadro de más abajo indica los distintos rangos y títulos otorgados a los señores del Kai en cada etapa de su entrenamiento. Cada vez que hayas completado con éxito una aventura de la serie LOBO SOLITARIO, conseguirás una Disciplina Kai suplementaria y así podrás ascender progresivamente hacia el dominio completo de las diez Disciplinas Kai.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Postulante</li>
- <li>Novicio</li>
- <li>Aprendiz</li>
- <li>Discípulo</li>
- <li>Iniciado<ch.emdash/>Es el rango con el que emprendiste por primera vez una aventura de Lobo Solitario</li>
- <li>Aspirante</li>
- <li>Guardián</li>
- <li>Guerrero o Viajero</li>
- <li>Sabio</li>
- <li>Maestro</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Tras estas diez disciplinas Kai básicas existen otras Disciplinas Kai secretas, de orden superior, llamadas Magnakai. Adquiriendo la sabiduría del Magnakai, un señor del Kai puede progresar hacia el dominio supremo y convertirse en un Gran Señor del Kai.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>La Sabiduría del Kai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu misión será muy peligrosa, pues los señores de la Oscuridad y sus servidores son enemigos crueles y feroces que no conceden ni esperan clemencia. Utiliza el mapa para orientarte y seguir el camino más directo hacia la capital. Toma notas conforme vas avanzando a lo largo de la historia porque te serán de gran utilidad en futuras aventuras.</p>
- <p>Muchos objetos que encontrarás te ayudarán durante la aventura. Algunos objetos especiales te serán útiles en próximas aventuras de Lobo Solitario, mientras que otros no tendrán ninguna utilidad real. Por tanto, deberás elegir con mucho cuidado los que decides conservar.</p>
- <p>Hay muchas rutas que conducen hasta el Rey, pero sólo una implica un mínimo de peligros. Con una sabia elección de las disciplinas del Kai y una buena dosis de valor, cualquier jugador será capaz de llevar a cabo la misión, por reducidos que sean su inicial <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> o sus puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
- <p>El honor y la memoria de los señores del Kai te acompañarán en tu arriesgado viaje.</p>
- <p>¡Buena suerte!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Secciones Numeradas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Debes apresurarte, pues comprendes que es arriesgado permanecer entre los restos humeantes del derruido monasterio. Las bestias de alas negras pueden volver en cualquier momento. Tienes que partir hacia Holmgard, la capital de Sommerlund, e informar al Rey de la terrible matanza: que todos los guerreros más cualificados del Kai, a excepción de ti mismo, han perecido. Sin los señores del Kai para dirigir sus ejércitos, Sommerlund está a merced de sus antiguos enemigos, los señores de la Oscuridad.</p>
- <p>Conteniendo las lágrimas te despides de tus camaradas muertos. En silencio prometes que sus muertes serán vengadas. Te alejas de las ruinas y precavidamente desciendes por la abrupta pendiente.</p>
- <p>Al pie de la colina, el sendero se divide en dos direcciones, pero ambas conducen a un gran bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina del Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">Si deseas tomar el camino de la derecha, <link-text>pasa al número 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">Si deseas seguir el camino de la izquierda, <link-text>pasa al 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mientras corres entre los árboles que cada vez se van haciendo más espesos, los gritos de los giaks empiezan a extinguirse a lo lejos. Cuando ya casi has dejado atrás a tus perseguidores, chocas de frente contra una maraña de ramas bajas.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">Si te sale un número entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">Si te sale un número entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Siguiendo de cerca al oficial, atraviesas una puerta enmarcada por un arco y subes un corto tramo de escaleras que conduce a un gran vestíbulo. Allí entran y salen soldados llevando órdenes en adornados pergaminos a los oficiales que están estacionados junto a las murallas de la ciudad.</p>
- <p>Un hombre macilento y con el rostro surcado de cicatrices, vestido con la túnica blanca y púrpura de los cortesanos del Rey, se acerca a ti y te invita a que le sigas hasta la ciudadela.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">Si deseas seguir a este hombre, <link-text>pasa al número 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">Si deseas rehusar su invitación y volver a las calles atestadas de gente, <link-text>pasa al 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El pequeño bote se encuentra en muy mal estado. La madera está astillada y el fondo hace agua por varios lugares. Rápidamente tapas con un poco de barro los agujeros más grandes y achicas el agua. Esto parece mantener de momento la embarcación a flote. Cargas en ella tu equipo y empiezas a navegar río abajo usando como remo una rama que has recogido de la corriente.</p>
- <p>Al cabo de un rato oyes el sonido de caballos que galopan hacia ti por la orilla izquierda.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina del Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">Si deseas esconderte en el fondo de la barca, <link-text>pasa al número 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">Si deseas llamar la atención de los jinetes, <link-text>pasa al 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de caminar durante una hora por el sendero, éste tuerce poco a poco hacia el este. Llegas a una hondonada por donde corre hacia el sur, entre escarpados peñascos, un rápido arroyo. Al otro lado del vado que lo atraviesa, el sendero desemboca en un camino más ancho que va de norte a sur. Comprendiendo que si te diriges al norte te alejarás de la capital, doblas a la derecha del cruce y te encaminas hacia el sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Pasa al número 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Oyes el ruido lejano de caballos al galope. El sonido aumenta. Te escondes detrás de un árbol y esperas a que los jinetes se acerquen. Son la caballería de la Guardia Real, que llevan los uniformes blancos del ejército de Su Majestad.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="228" width="320" src="6.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect183">Si deseas llamarles, <link-text>dirígete al número 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">Si deseas dejarles pasar de largo y luego continuar tu camino a través del bosque, <link-text>dirígete al número 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Durante un tiempo que te parece una eternidad, la muchedumbre desbandada te arrastra como una hoja en los rápidos de una corriente. Luchas desesperadamente por mantenerte en pie, pero te encuentras débil y aturdido después de tantas penalidades y las piernas te pesan como si fueran de plomo. De repente divisas unas escaleras largas y estrechas que conducen al tejado de una taberna.</p>
- <p>Reuniendo tus últimas fuerzas te lanzas escaleras arriba y subes al tejado. Desde allí puedes contemplar una magnífica vista de las torres y agujas de Holmgard y las altas murallas de piedra de la ciudadela, resplandecientes a la luz del sol.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Desde all<ch.iacute/> puedes contemplar una magn<ch.iacute/>fica vista de las torres y agujas de Holmgard y las altas murallas de piedra de la ciudadela</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="673" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="673" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Las casas y demás edificios de la capital están construidos muy cerca unos de otros y es posible saltar de un tejado al siguiente. De hecho, muchos ciudadanos de Holmgard solían usar «el camino de los tejados» (como lo llamaban) cuando las intensas lluvias del otoño dejaban las zonas no pavimentadas de las calles convertidas en lodazales intransitables.</p>
- <p>Pero como sucedieron numerosos accidentes, un real decreto prohibió semejante costumbre. Después de reflexionar detenidamente, decides utilizar «el camino de los tejados», pues es tu única posibilidad de llegar hasta el Rey. Saltas y brincas por encima de varias calles y ya sólo una calle te separa de la ciudadela cuando te detienes al final de una hilera de tejados.</p>
- <p>La distancia que hay hasta la siguiente hilera es mucho mayor que las que has salvado hasta ese momento y sientes en el estómago una extraña sensación, como si lo tuvieras lleno de mariposas. Decidido a alcanzar la ciudadela, retrocedes unos pasos para tomar impulso y, con la sangre golpeándote en las sienes, das un salto desde el borde del tejado, volando sobre el vacío, fija la mirada en el tejado de enfrente.</p>
- <p>Escoge al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">Si te sale un número comprendido entre el 0 y el 2, <link-text>pasa al 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">Si te sale un número entre el 3 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu Sexto sentido te avisa de que al sur se libra una encarnizada batalla. Pero tu sentido común te dice también que el sur es la ruta más rápida hacia la capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Pasa al número 70</link-text> y elige tu ruta.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No puedes moverte. Una fuerza poderosa te sujeta y te deja rígido. Tienes los ojos fijos en la boca del esqueleto. Desde las profundidades de la tierra llega hasta tus oídos un zumbido sordo, como de millones de abejas enfurecidas. Un resplandor rojizo aparece en las cuencas de los ojos del rey muerto y el zumbido aumenta hasta convertirse en un rugido ensordecedor. Estás en presencia de un antiguo mal, mucho más viejo y más potente que los mismos Señores de la Oscuridad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">Si posees una gema vordak, <link-text>pasa al número 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">Si no la posees, <link-text>pasa al 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás sudando y te duelen las piernas. A media distancia ves un grupo de cabañas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">Si deseas entrar en una de ellas y descansar un rato, <link-text>pasa al número 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">Si deseas continuar tu viaje, <link-text>pasa el número 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rápidamente atraviesas la puerta de una cuadra y escondes la bata de cirujano entre la paja, pues es mejor ser reconocido como Señor del Kai que ser tomado por un curandero.</p>
- <p>Sin perder un segundo, sales en dirección hacia el Gran Salón, que se encuentra al otro lado del patio.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Pasa al número 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El guardaespaldas te mira con gesto de sospecha y cierra la puerta de golpe. Oyes voces dentro del carruaje. De repente la puerta se abre y aparece el rostro de un rico mercader.</p>
- <p>Te pide 10 Coronas de oro como pago por el viaje.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">Si tienes 10 Coronas de oro y quieres pagarle, <link-text>pasa al número 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">Si no tienes suficientes Coronas de oro o no quieres pagárselas, <link-text>pasa al 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero termina pronto en un gran claro. En medio del claro hay un árbol mucho más alto y más grueso que los que has visto en el bosque.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Entre las frondosas ramas puedes ver una casita a una altura entre veinticinco y treinta pies. No hay ninguna escala para subir a ella, pero el tronco nudoso del árbol te ofrece muchos salientes donde apoyar los pies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">Si deseas trepar al árbol y explorar la casita, <link-text>pasa al número 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">Si deseas proseguir tu camino, <link-text>pasa al 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Alcanzas la cima de una pequeña colina cubierta de árboles, en la que varias piedras forman un tosco círculo. De repente oyes un fuerte gruñido que parece provenir de detrás de una roca a tu izquierda.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">Si deseas empuñar el arma y disponerte a luchar, <link-text>pasa al número 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">Si prefieres evadirte corriendo lo más deprisa que puedas colina abajo, <link-text>pasa al 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Atraviesas un largo y oscuro túnel de ramas colgantes que aquí y allá se abre en amplios claros. En el centro de uno de esos claros, encima de una roca, hay una espada, envainada en una funda de piel negra. Una nota manuscrita ha sido atada a la empuñadura, pero está escrita en un lenguaje que tú desconoces.</p>
- <p>Puedes quedarte con la espada si así lo deseas y anotarla en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>Hay tres salidas del claro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">Si decides ir hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al número 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">Si decides ir hacia el oeste, <link-text>pasa al 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">Si decides ir hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Consigues desatar un caballo de las correas que lo atan al carruaje. Está aterrado por el olor de los lobos fatídicos que se aproximan y por los gritos de sus malvados jinetes, los giaks.</p>
- <p>Preparando tu arma, espoleas al asustadizo caballo en dirección hacia las bestias. Los giaks están a menos de cincuenta yardas de distancia y, conforme se acercan, blanden sus lanzas contra ti.</p>
- <p>Tú cargas contra ellos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192"><link-text>Pasa al número 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Levantas tu arma para atacar a la bestia, pero ésta, con sus colmillos afilados como cuchillas, te tira un bocado que está a punto de rebanarte la cabeza. Sacudido por el batir de sus alas, tienes dificultad para mantenerte en pie.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="17.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Deduce un punto de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> y pelea con el kraan.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kraan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Si matas a la bestia, desciende rápidamente de la colina para eludir a los giaks.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">Si sacas un 0, <link-text>pasa al 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">Si sacas un 1 o un 2, <link-text>pasa al 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">Si sacas un número entre el 3 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te despierta el ruido de tropas distantes. Ves al otro lado del lago las figuras con negras capas de los drakkarim y una manada de lobos fatídicos montados por sus jinetes. Encima de los árboles aparece un kraan, que se posa en el tejado de una choza de madera.</p>
- <p>Sobre el kraan cabalga una criatura vestida de negro. El kraan alza el vuelo y atraviesa el lago hacia el lugar donde tú estás escondido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina del Camuflaje, <link-text>pasa al 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">Si deseas penetrar más en el interior del bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">Si deseas luchar contra esa criatura, <link-text>pasa al 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Delante de ti, entre los altos árboles, divisas unos grupos de matorrales de color rojo oscuro: son zarzas provistas de punzantes espinas carmesí. El nombre vulgar de esas zarzas es el de adormideras, pues si alguien se pincha con sus agudas púas se debilita y adormece.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">Si posees la disciplina del Rastreo, <link-text>pasa al 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">Puedes evitar las adormideras volviendo al camino. <link-text>Pasa entonces al número 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">O puedes cruzar entre las zarzas e internarte más en el bosque. <link-text>Pasa en ese caso al número 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quienquiera que viviese allí, debió de salir precipitadamente y hace muy poco tiempo. Sobre la mesa quedan aún restos de comida y, al tocar una taza, notas que aún está caliente.</p>
- <p>Registras un arca y un pequeño armario y encuentras una Mochila, alimentos (suficientes para 2 Comidas) y una Daga.</p>
- <p>Si deseas apropiarte esos objetos, recuerda anotarlos en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>. Luego continúa tu misión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Pasa al número 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de cabalgar unas dos millas por el enmarañado bosque, adviertes que el terreno se vuelve pantanoso.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">Si es inferior al 5, el caballo se hunde de improviso en el espeso fango hasta el vientre. Si el número es el 5 o superior al 5, logras salir del pantano y <link-text>pasas al 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">Si estás atollado en el lodo, elige al azar otro número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>. Si esta vez el número es un 7 o inferior al 7, te sumerges en el lodo hasta los sobacos. El caballo lanza un último relincho desesperado cuando su hocico desaparece en el burbujeante fango. Si el número que has sacado es mayor que 7, logras librarte del lodo y pisar terreno firme y <link-text>pasas al 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">De lo contrario, tienes una última oportunidad. Elige de nuevo un número al azar. Si no es el 9, la ciénaga putrefacta te engulle por completo cobrándose una nueva víctima. Tu vida y tu misión acaban aquí. Si el número que te ha salido es el 9, <link-text>pasa al 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apartando de un golpe al jefe, echas a correr por el camino real. Entonces, detrás de ti, el chasquido funesto de una ballesta al ser tensada hace que un escalofrío te recorra la espina dorsal.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">Si sacas un número entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">Si sacas un número entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El corredor pronto se ensancha en un amplio vestíbulo. En el otro extremo, unas escaleras de piedra llevan a una enorme puerta. Dos velas negras a ambos lados de las escaleras alumbran débilmente el cuarto. Observas que la cera no se derrite y, al acercarte, notas que las velas no dan calor. Antiguos grabados cubren las paredes de piedra.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>An ornate pin appears to lock the door, but<br />there is also a keyhole in the lockplate</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="715" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="715" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Ansioso por salir de aquella tumba aciaga, examinas la puerta buscando un picaporte. Un alfiler adornado parece servir de pestillo a la puerta, pero en la chapa de la cerradura hay también un agujero para una llave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">Si tienes una Llave de oro y quieres usarla, <link-text>pasa al 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">Si posees la disciplina de Dominio mental sobre la materia, <link-text>pasa al 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">Si deseas quitar el alfiler, <link-text>pasa al número 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El mercader grita al cochero del carruaje que salte.</p>
- <p><quote>-¡Nos atacan!</quote> -exclama, desapareciendo por la ventana circular.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">Si decides saltar detrás de él, <link-text>pasa al número 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">Si decides ocupar el puesto del cochero y tomar las riendas del tiro de caballos, <link-text>pasa al número 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aterrizas en el tejado de enfrente con tal encontronazo que te quedas sin aliento y caes de espaldas torciéndote el cuello.</p>
- <p>Al cabo de un minuto más o menos, te das cuenta de que has conseguido cruzar la calle y estás sano y salvo. Al convencerte de ello, te pones en pie de un salto y lanzas un grito de alegría por tu habilidad y valor.</p>
- <p>En seguida recorres el tejado y desciendes por un canalón de desagüe a la calle. Ves los portones de la ciudadela abiertos y un carro tirado por dos grandes caballos que trata de salir. Los caballos están asustados a causa de los gritos de la multitud y ambos se encabritan haciendo que el carro choque contra el portón destrozando una de las ruedas delanteras. En la confusión que se origina ves una oportunidad de entrar sin ser advertido y rápidamente te deslizas en el interior antes de que los guardias cierren de golpe los portones.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Pasa al número 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con mucha precaución avanzas por el corredor hasta que llegas a un recodo que tuerce hacia el este. Una extraña luz verde se divisa a lo lejos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">Si deseas continuar, <link-text>pasa al número 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">Si deseas retroceder y probar por la ruta hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al número 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caminas por el sendero durante más de una hora, observando precavidamente el cielo por si el kraan te ataca de nuevo. Delante de ti, un gran árbol caído está atravesado en el sendero. A medida que te acercas, oyes voces que proceden del otro lado del enorme tronco.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">Si eliges atacar, <link-text>pasa al número 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">Si prefieres escuchar lo que dicen esas voces, <link-text>pasa al número 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al cabo de unos pocos cientos de yardas, el sendero se une con otro que va de norte a sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">Si deseas ir hacia el norte, <link-text>pasa al número 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">Si deseas ir hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A grandes zancadas te diriges al borde del agua y te preparas para combatir. El kraan y su jinete te han descubierto y cruzan el lago a toda velocidad, apenas unas pulgadas sobre la superficie del agua.</p>
- <p>El jinete lanza un alarido que te hiela la sangre. Es un vordak, un feroz lugarteniente de los señores de la Oscuridad.</p>
- <p>Se encuentra ya encima de ti y debes luchar contra él. Resta 2 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> a no ser que tengas la disciplina de Defensa psíquica, pues el vordak te está atacando con su fuerza mental y con una enorme maza negra.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect270">Si vences en la lucha, <link-text>pasa al número 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La gente está cansada y hambrienta. Han recorrido muchas millas desde que abandonaron su ciudad en llamas. De pronto oyes el batir de gigantescas alas. El sonido proviene del norte.</p>
- <p><quote>-¡Son kraans, kraans! Escondeos.</quote></p>
- <p>El clamor se extiende a lo largo del camino.</p>
- <p>Enfrente de ti, a un carro en el que van unos niños se le atasca una rueda en un surco del camino y se rompe. Los niños chillan aterrados.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="271" width="386" src="30.gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect194">Si deseas ayudar a los niños, <link-text>pasa al número 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">Si quieres salir corriendo y refugiarte entre los árboles, <link-text>pasa al 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tratas de confortar al herido lo mejor que puedes, pero sus heridas son graves y pronto vuelve a perder el conocimiento. Le cubres con su capa, te das media vuelta y te internas rápidamente en la espesura del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Pasa al número 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de cabalgar unas tres millas, ves a lo lejos las inconfundibles siluetas de cinco grandes lobos fatídicos. A lomos de ellos van los giaks. Parecen dirigirse hacia adelante, donde el sendero desciende hasta una pradera abierta. De repente, uno de los giaks se separa de los otros y retrocede por el camino en dirección hacia ti.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">Si deseas esconderte entre la maleza y dejarle pasar de largo, <link-text>vete al número 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">Si deseas combatir contra él, <link-text>pasa al número 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El suelo de la cueva está completamente seco y cubierto de polvo. Al explorar más hacia el interior, percibes el olor apestoso de carne podrida. Esparcidos en una grieta están los huesos, la piel y los dientes de varios animalitos. Entre esos restos descubres una pequeña bolsa de tela. La abres y encuentras 3 Coronas de oro que te guardas en el bolsillo. Después sales de la que parece ser la guarida de un gato montés y desciendes precavidamente de la colina.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Pasa al número 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>De improviso, una terrible aparición vestida de rojo se lanza sobre ti desde lo alto del cielo a lomos de un kraan. Su aullido te hiela la sangre. La bestia es un vordak, un feroz lugarteniente de los señores de la Oscuridad.</p>
- <p>Está encima de ti y debes luchar contra él.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A terrible apparition in red robes swoops down<br />from the sky on the back of a Kraan</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="694" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="694" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Resta 2 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> a menos que poseas la disciplina de Defensa psíquica, pues la criatura te ataca con el poder de su Fuerza mental y a la vez con una enorme maza negra.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El bosque se va volviendo más denso y la senda más enmarañada de zarzas espinosas. Descubres otra senda, que está casi completamente oculta por la maleza y se dirige hacia el este. Tu ruta actual parece que acaba entre los matorrales, así que decides seguir la nueva senda en dirección este.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Pasa al número 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La escala que conduce a la vieja atalaya está carcomida y, al subir por ella, se rompen varios escalones. Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">Si el número es un 4 o está por debajo de 4, caes al suelo, pierdes 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y <link-text>pasas al 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">Si el número es un 5 o está por encima del 5, no te caes y <link-text>pasas al 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te sientes cansado y hambriento y debes detenerte para comer. Después de hacerlo, vuelves sobre tus pasos a la ciudadela y empiezas a caminar alrededor de la alta e infranqueable muralla de piedra.</p>
- <p>Por el lado oriental descubres otra entrada, vigilada también por dos soldados con armaduras.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina de Camuflaje, <link-text>pasa al 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">Si deseas acercarte a ellos y contarles tu historia, <link-text>pasa al número 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Durante una hora o más sigues andando por el bosque a través de la rica vegetación de árboles y matorrales. Llegas a la orilla de un claro arroyo donde te detienes unos minutos para lavarte la cara y beber un poco de agua fresca.</p>
- <p>Sintiéndote revitalizado, cruzas la corriente y continúas adelante. Pronto percibes olor de humo de leña que parece provenir del norte.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">Si quieres investigar el lugar de donde viene el olor, <link-text>pasa al número 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">Si prefieres evitar el sitio de donde llega el humo, <link-text>pasa al 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unos segundos después, dos caritas peludas se asoman nerviosas por encima del tronco. Te dicen que son kakarmis y que los kraans están por todas partes. Al oeste quedan los restos de su poblado, que apenas son más que un montón de ruinas. Están buscando a los supervivientes de su tribu, que escaparon al bosque cuando los "alas negras" atacaron. Señalan detrás de ellos, al este del sendero, y te informan de que éste parece terminar allí, pero que si sigues a través de la maleza unas pocas yardas más, encontrarás una atalaya junto a la cual el camino se divide en tres direcciones. Toma la del este, que te conducirá al camino real que une la capital, Holmgard, con el puerto del norte, Toran.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Das las gracias a los kakarmis y les dices adiós.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Pasa al número 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Observando cuidadosamente las cabañas por si descubres alguna señal de la presencia de enemigos, rodeas el claro escondiéndote entre los árboles y matorrales. Vuelves al camino y te alejas a toda prisa de Fogwood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Pasa al número 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tres guardabosques pasan al galope por la orilla del río, seguidos de cerca por giaks montados en sus rugientes lobos fatídicos.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="533" width="386" src="41.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The Giak leader orders five of his troops<br />to open fire at you with their bows</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="701" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="701" />
- </illustration>
- <p>La orilla es escarpada y te divisa el jefe de los giaks, que ordena a cinco de sus guerreros que disparen contra ti sus arcos. Una lluvia de flechas negras cae sobre ti.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">Si decides remar río arriba lo más deprisa que puedas, <link-text>pasa al número 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">Si decides esconderte entre los árboles de la orilla opuesta, <link-text>pasa al número 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sigues el camino durante casi una hora hasta que llegas a una encrucijada.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">Si deseas continuar hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al número 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">Si prefieres dirigirte hacia el norte, <link-text>pasa al 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">Si decides aventurarte hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">Si escoges ir hacia el oeste, <link-text>pasa al 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>De detrás de la roca surge un enorme oso negro. Avanza despacio hacia ti, con la boca abierta y el rostro desfigurado por la cólera y el dolor.</p>
- <p>Adviertes que está malherido y que sangra por el pescuezo y el lomo. Debes luchar contra él.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Oso negro</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect195">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">Después de tres asaltos, tu posición te permite salir corriendo colina abajo. Si en este momento deseas evadirte del combate, <link-text>pasa al número 106</link-text> afrontando el riesgo de ser herido en la huida.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>De repente, el viejo sendero termina bruscamente junto al borde de una abrupta pendiente. En ésta el terreno es muy movedizo e inestable. Pierdes pie y caes de cabeza por el declive.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">Si el número está entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">Si el número está entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aquellos hombres no son lo que parecen. El jubón del jefe es auténtico, pero está manchado de sangre en el cuello, como si a su verdadero dueño le hubieran matado. Sus armas no pertenecen al ejército, sino que están costosa y profusamente adornadas como las armas fabricadas por los armeros de Durenor.</p>
- <p>El jefe lleva una ballesta colgada de su mochila. Intentar huir corriendo sería suicida de tu parte. Comprendes que debes combatir o de lo contrario te matarán tan pronto como bajes el arma.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Pasa al número 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Has recorrido unas dos millas y los árboles empiezan a estar más espaciados. Puedes ver una pequeña choza de madera a la orilla de un lago. Un hombre vestido con capa se acerca a ti y te ofrece llevaros en una balsa a ti y a tu caballo a través del lago por el precio de 2 Coronas de oro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">Si posees la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">Si aceptas el ofrecimiento, <link-text>pasa al número 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">Si rehúsas e intentas rodear el lago a caballo, <link-text>pasa al 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sin aliento y sudando, trepas hacia la cima de la colina. De pronto, una gran sombra alada cruza la ladera. Miras hacia arriba y ves un kraan que describe círculos en el aire sobre la cumbre. Detrás de ti los giaks están ganando terreno.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">¿Te quedas donde estás y combates desde allí a los giaks, aprovechando la ventaja que te da el encontrarte en una posición más alta que ellos? Si eliges esta alternativa, <link-text>pasa al número 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">¿O, rechinando los dientes, sigues ascendiendo hacia la cumbre de la colina? <link-text>Pasa entonces al número 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu Sexto sentido te avisa de que esas tropas no son lo que parecen. Detectas un aura de maldad alrededor de ellas. Están al servicio de los señores de la Oscuridad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">Debes abandonar el lugar lo más rápidamente posible antes de que te descubran. <link-text>Pasa al número 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al comenzar a leer la inscripción, observas una sombra que avanza hacia ti desde detrás del biombo.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">Si sacas un número comprendido entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">Si el número se encuentra entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El fragor de la batalla puede ser oído desde muy lejos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">Si deseas dirigirte hacia el campo de batalla, <link-text>pasa al número 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">Si deseas eludir el combate, cambia de dirección y <link-text>pasa al 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Subes por la orilla del río cubierta de árboles y divisas las empalizadas de unas fortificaciones que se pierden en la lejanía.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>La empalizada está derruida en varios lugares,<br />por donde los señores de la Oscuridad atacan</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="668" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="668" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A una distancia de unas dos millas se libra una batalla y la empalizada está derruida en varios lugares, por donde los señores de la Oscuridad atacan.</p>
- <p>La mayor parte de las fortificaciones permanecen desguarnecidas, pues los soldados han ido a prestar apoyo a los combatientes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">Hay una puerta en la empalizada. Si deseas aproximarte a ella, <link-text>pasa al número 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">Si prefieres escalar la empalizada, <link-text>pasa al 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahora que estás más cerca, te das cuenta de que las voces no son humanas. El sonido se asemeja más a una especie de gruñido o de chirrido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">Si posees la disciplina de Afinidad animal, <link-text>pasa al número 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">Si no, debes trepar al tronco y enfrentarte con lo que pueda ocultarse al otro lado. <link-text>Pasa al 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Un dolor punzante te lacera la pierna derecha, retorcida y aplastada por el peso de tu cuerpo. Desciendes tambaleándote hasta que al fin vas a caer en una zanja al pie de la colina, con tal fuerza que te quedas sin aliento y pierdes el sentido.</p>
- <p>Te despierta el agudo dolor de algo que se te hinca en el pecho y que resulta ser la punta de la lanza de un giak. Éste te saluda con un malicioso visaje de burla y desprecio, mientras te sujeta el brazo izquierdo contra el suelo. Instintivamente tratas de sacar tu arma, pero ésta no se encuentra en su lugar.</p>
- <p>Indefenso frente a los crueles giaks, lo último que ves antes de que toda luz se apague para ti es la punta afilada de una lanza giak que ha sido arrojada con violencia hacia tu cuello.</p>
- <p>Tu misión termina aquí.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Parece como si el cielo no escuchara tus plegarias. Una lanza pasa rozándote la cabeza y va a clavarse en el pescuezo de tu caballo. Lanzando un aullido de dolor, éste vuelca hacia adelante y los dos rodáis por el suelo, enredados en informe montón.</p>
- <p>Aturdido e inmovilizado por el peso del caballo muerto, lo último que recuerdas son las agudas y penetrantes puntas de las lanzas giaks.</p>
- <p>Has fracasado en tu misión.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el momento mismo en que el giak salta, te abalanzas sobre él y le atacas con tu arma, apartándole de la espalda del joven hechicero.</p>
- <p>De un salto vuelves a la carga golpeando al giak, que lucha denodadamente. Debido a la sorpresa de tu ataque, suma 4 puntos a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> mientras dure la pelea, pero recuerda restarlos otra vez tan pronto como ésta termine.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">9</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect325">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Oyes el graznido de una enorme bestia alada que sobrevuela los árboles. Es un kraan, servidor mortífero de los señores de la Oscuridad. Rápidamente te escondes bajo unos espesos matorrales hasta que los horribles graznidos se pierden en la lejanía.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">Ahora <link-text>pasa al número 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La cabaña tiene sólo una habitación. En ella ves una mesa de madera y dos banquetas, una cama hecha de fardos de paja atados, varias botellas de líquidos de colores y una alfombra recamada en el centro del suelo.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect164">Si eliges examinar las botellas, <link-text>pasa al número 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">Si prefieres levantar la alfombra, <link-text>pasa al 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">Si optas por salir de la habitación e investigar en el establo, <link-text>pasa al 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Echas a correr y bajas a buen ritmo por la ladera. Al oeste, el ejército de los señores de la Oscuridad parece una gigantesca mancha de tinta negra derramada entre las montañas y desparramándose por el valle.</p>
- <p>Después de correr durante veinte minutos divisas una manada de lobos fatídicos que descienden por una suave pendiente a tu derecha.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">Si decides tenderte entre las rocas al lado del camino y esperar a que pasen de largo, <link-text>dirígete al número 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">Si decides seguir corriendo, pero con el arma lista por si las bestias te atacan, <link-text>pasa al 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Escudriñando en la oscuridad, adviertes que unos toscos escalones han sido excavados en la tierra y que la boca de la cueva es de hecho la entrada de un túnel.</p>
- <p>Desciendes con cuidado por la resbaladiza escalera y al pie de la misma descubres en un rincón una cajita de plata.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">Si deseas abrir la cajita, <link-text>pasa al número 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">Si deseas volver a la superficie y continuar tu camino, <link-text>pasa al 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">Si deseas seguir explorando el túnel, <link-text>pasa al 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lo último que se te graba en la memoria antes de que la oscuridad te trague es el resplandor de un gran cuchillo curvo. Eres otra víctima del mago y de su hijo el salteador, el mismo que ahora te corta el cuello.</p>
- <p>Tu búsqueda acaba aquí.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al fin llegas a las fortificaciones de madera que rodean la ciudad. Mientras corres hacia un puesto de centinela, oyes los gritos excitados de los guardias que te animan. Gracias a los dioses te han reconocido a pesar de tu aspecto harapiento y sospechoso. La capa está desgarrada y hecha jirones, tienes la cara llena de arañazos y manchada de sangre, y el polvo del cementerio te cubre de la cabeza a los pies.</p>
- <p>Atraviesas chapoteando un arroyo poco profundo y avanzas tambaleándote hasta la puerta del campamento. Todo el horror del encuentro que has sufrido en el cementerio empieza a hacer mella en ti. Lo último que recuerdas antes de que el cansancio te haga perder el sentido es que te desplomas en los brazos tendidos de dos soldados que han acudido corriendo a ayudarte.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Pasa al número 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los «soldados» yacen muertos a tus pies. Eran bandidos que se dedicaban a robar a los refugiados de Toran y en las casas y granjas abandonadas de la región.</p>
- <p>Al registrarlos encuentras 28 Coronas de oro y dos Mochilas que contienen provisiones suficientes para 3 Comidas. Los bandidos iban armados con una ballesta y tres Espadas. La ballesta ha quedado inutilizada en el combate, pero las Espadas están intactas y puedes quedarte con ellas si lo deseas.</p>
- <p>Arreglas el equipo, diriges una mirada cautelosa hacia el oeste y prosigues tu marcha hacia las defensas exteriores de la capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Pasa al número 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El anciano te grita enfurecido. Te echa la culpa de la guerra y maldice a los señores del Kai, a los que acusa de ser agentes de los señores de la Oscuridad. Como no atiende a razones, tienes que luchar con él.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="63.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>El anciano te grita enfurecido</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="677" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="677" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Loco</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect269">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te despiertan los graznidos de un kraan que vuela en círculo sobre el carruaje. Es por la mañana temprano y el cielo está despejado y radiante. Divisas una manada de lobos fatídicos a menos de un cuarto de milla delante de ti, en el camino real. Se están preparando para atacar. Debes actuar con toda rapidez.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">Si decides recoger tu equipo y correr a refugiarte en el bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">Si decides soltar uno de los caballos y tratar de atravesar la formación de los lobos atacantes para ganar el camino libre al otro lado de la manada, <link-text>pasa al número 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tus sentidos te avisan de que ese lugar es maligno y debes abandonarlo lo antes posible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Pasa al número 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sobresaltado, te das la vuelta y ves a un fornido sargento y a dos soldados que corren hacia ti blandiendo sus espadas.</p>
- <p>Te aprestas a defenderte, pues parece que ellos están dispuestos a atacar primero y preguntar después. Pero de repente el sargento ordena a sus hombres que se detengan. Ha reconocido tu capa. Enfundan las espadas y te piden disculpas por su equivocación. El sargento manda a uno de sus hombres a buscar al capitán de la Guardia mientras te conduce hacia la puerta del Gran Salón.</p>
- <p>Allí te recibe un apuesto guerrero que escucha atentamente tu relato. Al acabar la narración de tu peligroso viaje a la capital, observas lágrimas en los ojos del valiente guerrero, quien te ruega que le sigas. Atraviesas espléndidos salones y corredores dentro del palacio. Su riqueza y grandiosidad admiran al que los contempla. En esto llegáis ante una gran puerta labrada, delante de la cual hacen guardia dos soldados con armaduras de plata.</p>
- <p>Estás a punto de ver al Rey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Pasa al número 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La disciplina de Rastreo te revela unas huellas recientes que recorren el sendero del sur.</p>
- <p>Son las huellas de un oso negro, animal famoso por su ferocidad. Decides que es mucho más seguro tomar la ruta del este.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Pasa al número 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de caminar un rato, llegas a un punto donde un sendero que va de oeste a este cruza tu presente ruta.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">Si deseas torcer al oeste, <link-text>pasa al número 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">Si deseas dirigirte hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás muy cerca de un poblado amigo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">Evita los espinos y <link-text>pasa al número 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te encuentras ante un puentecillo. Un camino bordea la corriente hacia el este. Y otro sendero mucho más estrecho se interna en el espeso bosque hacia el sur.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect8">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">Si deseas ir hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al número 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">Si deseas ir hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás sin aliento, pero no herido. Has caído unos quince pies desde el techo de una tumba subterránea. Las paredes son verticales y lisas y no puedes trepar por ellas. Un túnel abovedado sale de la tumba hacia el este. Delante de él está el sarcófago de un antiguo noble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">Si quieres abrir el sarcófago para ver si encierra algún tesoro, <link-text>pasa al número 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">Si prefieres salir de la tumba por el túnel, <link-text>pasa al 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al volverte, ves a un giak que te mira despectivo y abre sus mandíbulas afiladas como navajas. Debes pelear con él, pues es tu enemigo.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak + lobo fatídico</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect265">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te envuelves en tu verde capa para camuflarte entre el follaje y las rocas. Escudriñando atentamente el sendero, ves con gran sorpresa que los hombres no son soldados del Rey.</p>
- <p>Son drakkarim, que se cuentan entre los guerreros más crueles de los señores de la Oscuridad. Han debido de disfrazarse de soldados del Rey para poder llegar hasta esa zona del bosque. Agradeciendo a tu adiestramiento en el Kai el haberte salvado la vida, te alejas sigilosamente de la corriente y te adentras en el bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243"><link-text>Pasa al número 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los kraans y sus jinetes aterrizan en el camino a escasos diez pies del lugar donde tú estás escondido.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="74.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Los giaks desmontan de los escamosos lomos de los kraans y se dírigen hacia ti con las lanzas en alto y listas para atacar. Te han descubierto.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">Si decides luchar contra ellos, <link-text>pasa al número 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">Si decides huir sin demora, corriendo hacia el interior del bosque, <link-text>pasa al 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inspeccionando cuidadosamente la orilla, divisas a tres hombres que van vestidos de verde y montan en veloces caballos. Reconoces en ellos a los guardabosques fronterizos, un regimiento del ejército real que vigila las fronteras occidentales. Uno de ellos está herido y cabalga echado sobre el pescuezo de su caballo.</p>
- <p>Les persiguen de cerca una manada de veinte lobos fatídicos. Los jinetes giaks disparan sus flechas contra los guardabosques, que van cayendo alrededor de ellos. Uno es derribado de su caballo y rueda por la orilla del río, con una flecha atravesándole la pierna derecha.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">Si deseas ayudar al guardabosques, <link-text>pasa al número 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">Si deseas permanecer oculto y dejarte llevar por la corriente río abajo, <link-text>pasa al 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect76-1-foot" idref="sect76-1">
- <p>Guarda este objeto como una Gema Vordak. Aunque en principio el texto dice que la guardas en tu jubón, eso lo haces de forma temporal hasta que la echas más tarde en tu mochila. No es un Objeto Especial. (cf. <a idref="sect304">Sección 304</a>)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>La Gema desprende un intenso calor y te quema la mano. Pierdes 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Rápidamente la agarras con el borde de la capa y <footref id="sect76-1" idref="sect76-1-foot">la introduces en el bolsillo de tu jubón.</footref> ¡Una Gema de ese tamaño debe de valer cientos de Coronas!</p>
- <p>Sonríes por tu buena fortuna, montas a caballo y partes por la senda del sur.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect118"><link-text>Pasa al número 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los giaks de las montañas no están acostumbrados a perseguir a sus presas a través de bosques y pronto los dejas atrás, hasta que finalmente el sonido de sus gruñidos y maldiciones desaparece por completo.</p>
- <p>Cuando estás convencido de que han desistido de darte caza, te detienes unos minutos para recobrar el aliento y examinar tu equipo. Con las imágenes del monasterio derruido aún vivas en tu memoria, vuelves a meter en la mochila tus escasas pertenencias y sigues adelante.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19"><link-text>Pasa al número 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando el carruaje pasa velozmente junto a ti, saltas a la escalerilla de la parte posterior y logras asirte a ella. Te incorporas afianzando los pies sobre el peldaño más bajo de la escalerilla, que sirve de acceso a la puerta trasera del carruaje. De repente la hoja superior de la puerta se abre y te encuentras ante un enfurecido guardaespaldas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">Si decides informarle de que eres un señor del Kai y que tienes un mensaje urgente para el Rey, <link-text>pasa al número 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">Si decides ofrecerle Coronas de oro para que te lleve sano y salvo a la capital, <link-text>pasa al 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">Si decides atacar al guardaespaldas con tu arma, <link-text>pasa al 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llegas a un puentecillo que cruza una rápida corriente. Al otro lado del puente, el sendero tuerce hacia el sur. Atraviesas el puente y sigues el sendero.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Pasa al número 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tambaleándote hacia atrás cruzas la puerta delantera, agarrándote con las dos manos el pecho quemado. De la tienda salen oleadas de humo y debes huir corríendo antes de que el mago o su hijo el salteador te atrapen.</p>
- <p>Vuelves a la calle principal y te pierdes entre el tropel de la muchedumbre.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al cabo de casi una hora, los kraans y sus crueles jinetes se desvanecen por el oeste. Cuando los asustados refugiados empiezan a salir del bosque, oyes a lo lejos un galopar de caballos. El sonido se acerca. Permaneces escondido y esperas a que los jinetes se aproximen más. Son de la caballería de la Guardia Real, con los uniformes blancos del ejército de Su Majestad.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="228" width="320" src="6.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect183">Si deseas llamarles, <link-text>pasa al número 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">Si prefieres continuar tu marcha por la linde del bosque hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al número 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El gigante gourgaz yace muerto a tus pies. Sus malvados seguidores disparan sus dardos contra ti y después se repliegan detrás del puente. Los soldados del Príncipe forman con sus escudos una barrera protectora alrededor de ti y del jefe muerto de los gourgaz. Negras flechas pasan silbando junto a tu cabeza.</p>
- <p>El Príncipe moribundo te mira a los ojos y dice:</p>
- <p>-Señor del Kai, debes llevar un mensaje a mi padre. El enemigo es demasiado poderoso para que podamos detener su avance. El Rey debe mandar a buscar lo que se encuentra en Durenor o todo estará perdido. Toma mi caballo y cabalga hacia la capital. Que los dioses y la buena suerte te acompañen.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="82.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Te despides del Príncipe, montas en su blanco corcel y te diriges hacia el sur por el sendero del bosque. La batalla aún prosigue a tus espaldas, pues los soldados del Príncipe rechazan otro asalto en el puente.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Pasa al número 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llevas recorrida una milla aproximadamente cuando tres soldados surgen de debajo de un puentecillo. Te ordenan parar y tirar al suelo tus armas y tu equipo.</p>
- <p>Los soldados están manchados de sangre y sin afeitar. Su jefe lleva el jubón de un soldado de la guarnición de Toran.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">Si posees la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al número 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">Si aceptas hacer lo que te ordenan, <link-text>pasa al número 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">Si deseas disponerte a luchar contra ellos, <link-text>pasa al 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">Si les pides que te digan lo que quieren, <link-text>pasa al número 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el momento en que sientes que el aire agitado por las alas del kraan te sacude la espalda, saltas del caballo y, rodando por el suelo, vas a parar a una zanja fangosa al lado del camino.</p>
- <p>Estás ileso y rápidamente te pones de pie y corres a buscar refugio entre los árboles. Pero cuando has recorrido un pequeño trozo de terreno, ves que el kraan vuela en círculo sobre tu cabeza preparándose para otro ataque en picado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Pasa al número 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La senda es ancha y va derecha hacia una gran espesura. Allí los árboles son muy altos y están insólitamente quietos. Caminas más de una milla y de pronto oyes un siniestro aleteo sobre tu cabeza. Miras hacia arriba y descubres sobresaltado la negra silueta de un kraan, que se lanza en picado para atacarte.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">Si empuñas tu arma y te aprestas a luchar, <link-text>pasa al número 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">Si eludes el combate y te internas en el bosque hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al número 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pronto llegas a otro cruce de caminos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">Si deseas proseguir viaje hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al número 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">Si quieres dirigirte hacia el norte, <link-text>pasa al 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">Si prefieres ir hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect42">Si eliges el camino hacia el oeste, <link-text>pasa al 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Centrando tus poderes en la cerradura, tratas de visualizar el mecanismo interno. Poco a poco su imagen aparece en tu mente. Está viejo y herrumbroso, pero aún funciona. Te amenaza el peligro de perder tu concentración cuando un ligero «clic» te confirma que tu esfuerzo no ha sido inútil.</p>
- <p>Quitar el alfiler es una tarea más sencilla. Lo levantas fácilmente de la cerradura y lo dejas caer al suelo. La puerta de granito gira sobre sus ocultos goznes hacia ti y la luz mortecina y grisácea del cementerio penetra en la tumba.</p>
- <p>La salida está cubierta de hierbajos y sufres muchas pequeñas cortaduras en la cara y en las manos al abrirte paso hacia la superficie. Te sobresalta un ruido repentino. Te vuelves y ves la calavera de un esqueleto que se ríe de ti.</p>
- <p>Ciego de pánico, corres por la horripilante necrópolis hacia la puerta meridional.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Pasa al número 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con gran cautela exploras los alrededores de la roca. Descubres a un soldado que está tendido de espaldas. A su lado hay una lanza y un escudo. El escudo lleva pintado un pegaso blanco, el emblema del Príncipe de Sommerlund. Es un soldado del Príncipe y apenas sí está consciente. Su uniforme se encuentra hecho jirones y puedes apreciar una profunda herida en su brazo izquierdo. Al acercarte a él, parpadea y abre los ojos.</p>
- <p>-Cúreme, señor -implora-. Casi no siento el brazo izquierdo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">Si posees la disciplina de Curación y deseas utilizarla con este hombre, <link-text>pasa al número 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">Si no posees esa destreza o no quieres usarla, <link-text>pasa al 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Envuelto en una nube de polvo y rocas sueltas, desciendes a la carrera por la abrupta ladera de la colina. El kraan aún vuela en círculo sobre tu cabeza como si quisiera dirigir a los giaks contra ti.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">Si el número es un 0 o un 1, <link-text>pasa al 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">Si está entre el 2 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">Si está entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Se hace de noche y pronto te encuentras inmerso en la más total oscuridad. Tratar de proseguir caminando sería inútil, pues a buen seguro te perderías. Después de atar el caballo a un árbol, te envuelves en la verde capa del Kai y caes en un sueño desasosegado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Pasa al número 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La pequeña tienda está a oscuras y huele a humedad. Libros y botellas de todos los tamaños y colores llenan los numerosos anaqueles. Cuando cierras la puerta, un perrillo negro empieza a ladrarte. Un hombre calvo aparece por detrás de un gran biombo y te da la bienvenida. Cortésmente te pregunta por el objeto de tu visita y te ofrece algunos de sus artículos desde el mostrador de cristal.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="91.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect198">Si posees la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">Si deseas examinar esos artículos, <link-text>pasa al número 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">Si prefieres declinar su ofrecimiento y volver a la calle, <link-text>pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te tiras en plancha entre unos matorrales justo a tiempo, pues una lluvia de negras flechas procedente de un grupo de árboles acribilla el lugar donde tú estabas unos segundos antes. Cubriéndote con tu capa para confundirte con los espesos arbustos, corres por el bosque como alma que lleva el diablo, tratando de huir lo más rápidamente posible de los hombres emboscados. Toda la zona está infestada de giaks y debes escapar a la mayor velocidad. Continúas corriendo sin descansar durante más de una hora hasta que encuentras un camino forestal bastante recto que conduce hacia el este. Sigues por ese camino, atento a cualquier señal que pueda revelarte la presencia de enemigos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13"><link-text>Pasa al número 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te das la vuelta y corres hacia las escaleras en el preciso momento en que un enorme bloque cae con gran estruendo detrás de ti. La cámara en la que estabas queda completamente bloqueada. Al salir a la luz del día, vislumbras a tu espalda la figura encorvada de un viejo druida que levanta su bastón. Un segundo más tarde, un rayo relampagueante estalla a tus pies. Sin perder un segundo echas a correr colina abajo, maldiciendo por aquel retraso, pero dando gracias a tu Sexto sentido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Pasa al número 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El mago, al ver que has matado a su hijo, se vuelve y sale corriendo por la puerta trasera.</p>
- <p>En la bolsa del salteador encuentras 12 Coronas de oro y otras 4 en una caja de madera debajo del mostrador. Examinas detenidamente las pociones y la varita mágica y pronto compruebas que no son más que falsificaciones baratas. De hecho la tienda está llena de imitaciones. Moviendo la cabeza con gesto de desagrado, regresas a la calle principal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pronto tropiezas con un estrecho sendero que atraviesa el bosque de norte a sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">Si deseas seguir el sendero en dirección hacia el norte, <link-text>pasa al número 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">Si deseas ir hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al número 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Conteniendo la respiración, aprietas el puño alrededor de tu arma y te dispones a atacar. La tensión es insoportable. Los giaks están tan cerca que el hedor de sus cuerpos sucios te apesta. Les oyes maldecir en su extraño lenguaje de alienígenas. Después dejan el repecho y empiezan a trepar hacia la cumbre. Cuando estás seguro de que se han marchado, respiras al fin libremente y te limpias el sudor de la frente.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">Si deseas seguir explorando la cueva, <link-text>pasa al número 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">Si deseas abandonar la cueva y bajar de la colina por si los giaks vuelven, <link-text>pasa al 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ante tus ojos una feroz batalla tiene lugar sobre un puente de piedra. El choque metálico de las armas y los alaridos de hombres y bestias resuenan a través del bosque. En medio del combate ves al Príncipe Pelathar, el hijo del Rey. Lucha contra un gigantesco gourgaz gris que blande un hacha negra sobre su escamosa cabeza. De repente el Príncipe cae herido por una flecha negra que le atraviesa el costado.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="97.gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>El choque metálico de las armas y los alaridos de hombres<br />y bestias resuenan a través del bosque</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="689" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="689" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect255">Si deseas defender al Príncipe caído, <link-text>pasa al número 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">Si deseas echar a correr hacia el bosque, <link-text>pasa al 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los guardias parecen creer tu historia y se inclinan an te ti por respeto a tu rango de señor del Kai. Uno de ellos tira de un cordón oculto que hace sonar una campana y los enormes portones se abren suavemente. Te invitan a entrar y oyes cómo la puerta se cierra detrás de ti.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Pasa al número 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te lanzas en plancha hacia la maleza en el mismo instante en que la bestia pasa rozándote la cabeza. Te vuelves rápidamente y ves cómo el kraan gira en el aire disponiéndose a atacar de nuevo. Te incorporas y corres a ínternarte en la espesura del bosque en busca de una mayor seguridad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Pasa al número 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El frío corredor dobla de repente hacia el este. Percibes un resplandor verdoso que ilumina el túnel a lo lejos. Al acercarte a rastras, ves que el corredor desemboca en una gran cámara.</p>
- <p>La extraña luz parece emanar de un enorme cuenco situado en lo alto de un trono de granito. Sobre una columna enfrente del trono se alza una estatua. Semeja una serpiente alada curvada en forma de S.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="100.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect161">Si deseas sentarte en el trono, <link-text>pasa al número 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">Si quieres examinar la estatua, <link-text>pasa al número 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">Si prefieres buscar la salida de la cámara, <link-text>pasa al 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El estruendo de la batalla se extingue pronto a tus espaldas, pero el silencio que le sigue se ve turbado por una voz dentro de ti que te acusa de ser un cobarde al haber abandonado a un ser humano, a un semejante en peligro. Tratas de desechar esos remordimientos de conciencia diciéndote a ti mismo que tu misión es con mucho lo más importante y que no sólo la vida del joven hechicero, sino las vidas de todos tus paisanos dependen de que tú llegues vivo a la capital.</p>
- <p>De repente ves a lo lejos un grupo de guerreros giaks y rápidamente buscas refugio y te escondes. Pero es demasiado tarde. Los giaks te han localizado y debes correr lo más velozmente que puedas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Pasa al número 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A medida que desciendes por la rocosa pendiente hacia el cementerio de los antepasados, percibes una extraña neblina que se adensa sobre ese lugar gris y prohibido, ocultando el sol y cubriendo el cementerio con una perenne oscuridad. Al acercarte, un escalofrío te recorre el cuerpo.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="102.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Con un sentimiento de profundo pavor entras en la espeluznante necrópolis.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Pasa al número 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero, que se ha ido cubriendo de maleza, conduce a una confluencia donde enlaza con otro ramal que se dirige hacia el este.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">Si deseas tomar este ramal, <link-text>pasa al número 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">Si prefieres continuar hacia el nordeste, <link-text>pasa al 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los muros están húmedos y llenos de limo. El aire rancio te produce ahogo y telas de araña te rozan el rostro. Una sensación de pánico te atenaza el estómago conforme el túnel se va volviendo cada vez más tenebroso.</p>
- <p>Llegas a un lugar donde el túnel se cruza con un corredor que va en dirección norte-sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">Si deseas torcer hacia el norte, <link-text>pasa al número 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">Si quieres ir hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A lo lejos, posado sobre la rama de un viejo roble, hay un cuervo negro.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect298">Si posees la disciplina de Afinidad animal puedes llamar a este pájaro y <link-text>pasa al número 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">Si no posees esa destreza o no quieres utilizarla, <link-text>pasa al 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Entre tanto, llegas a la orilla de un arroyo de aguas heladas y rápidas. La blanca corriente cae en cascada sobre las rocas musgosas y desaparece hacia el este.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">Si deseas seguir el curso del arroyo hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al número 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">Si prefieres explorar aguas arriba, <link-text>pasa al 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al atravesar corriendo la cámara, tropiezas con las calaveras haciéndolas pedazos. Adviertes que dentro de cada calavera hay una burbujeante jalea gris que bulle y cambia de forma. De esa masa reluciente parecen brotar unas alas y hocicos semejantes a los de los murciélagos. Con horror y repugnancia te precipitas hacia el corredor de salida y logras escapar en el preciso momento en que un pesado rastrillo cae con estrépito cerrando completamente la cámara.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Pasa al número 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Vuelas por el aire describiendo un arco hacia el tejado de enfrente. Todo parece desarrollarse a un ritmo muy lento. Divisas abajo, en la calle, el hervidero humano, y a tu derecha, en el alero de un tejado, un nido de gorriones. Oyes sus gorjeos sobresaltados cuando aterrizas con gran estrépito en el otro lado. Pero ése es el último sonido que oirás jamás. Las tejas saltan en pedazos y tú caes atravesando los cuatro pisos de la taberna «La zapatilla verde» y rompiéndote la columna vertebral por varios sitios.</p>
- <choice>Tu misión y tu vida terminan aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lo único que hay debajo de la alfombra es polvo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">Puedes examinar más de cerca las botellas <link-text>pasando al número 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">O puedes salir de la cabaña y explorar el establo <link-text>pasando al 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apuntas rápidamente y lanzas la roca a la cabeza del giak con todas tus fuerzas. Pero observas con espanto que el giak se agacha y la roca pasa sobre su cabeza sin hacerle ningún daño. Debes actuar inmediatamente si quieres salvar al hechicero.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Pasa al número 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unos pocos minutos después de alejarte del cruce, ves a lo lejos una pequeña cabaña de madera con un establo. Al llegar inspeccionas el interior a través de una ventana lateral. La cabaña parece abandonada.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">Si deseas entrar en la cabaña, <link-text>pasa al número 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">Si deseas explorar el establo, <link-text>pasa al 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>De repente la enorme roca detrás de la cual estás escondido rueda hacia un lado y te encuentras frente a dos giaks que profieren sonoros gruñidos e intentan matarte. La boca de la cueva es muy estrecha, por lo que sólo puedes luchar contra los giaks de uno en uno.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect33">Si vences, puedes seguir examinando la cueva. Para ello <link-text>pasa al número 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">También puedes salir de la cueva y descender de la colina. Para ello <link-text>pasa al número 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect113-1-foot" idref="sect113-1">
- <p>Cada Comida de Laumspur puede ser consumida cuando se te pida hacer una comida, en cuyo caso debes realizar una comida o perder 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. El Laumspur también puede ser consumido en cualquier otro momento para restaurar <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> sin tener el significado de hacer una comida.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de caminar durante más de una hora, atraen tu mirada unas flores rojas y brillantes que crecen junto a unas matas de musgo. Reconoces la planta: se trata del laumspur, una hierba rara y hermosa, muy apreciada por sus propiedades curativas.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="113.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Te arrodillas, arrancas un puñado de laumspur y lo guardas en la mochila. Puedes comer de esa hierba para recuperar puntos perdidos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Cada comida de laumspur te devuelve 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y has recogido hierba <footref id="sect113-1" idref="sect113-1-foot">suficiente para 2 comidas.</footref> Después de cerrar la mochila, continúas tu misión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">Si deseas dirigirte al nordeste, <link-text>pasa al número 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">Si deseas dirigirte al este, <link-text>pasa al 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Logras persuadir al caballo para que se eche en el suelo y empiezas a cubriros a los dos con ramas y hojas secas. Oyes el aleteo del kraan cuando éste pasa volando por encima de los árboles. Vuelve de nuevo y describe círculos sobre el lugar donde tú estás, pero pronto se retira a través del lago.</p>
- <p>Entonces tú decides partir también, no sea que el kraan vuelva con refuerzos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Pasa al número 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al entrar en una de las cabañas tropiezas y caes rendido en el suelo. Huele como si algo estuviera puesto a cocer. Ves una olla que cuelga sobre unos rescoldos medio apagados y una gran mesa de madera preparada para la comida. Quienquiera que viviese en la cabaña debió de abandonarla precipitadamente aquella misma mañana. En una jarra hay agua y sobre la mesa una hogaza de pan tierno.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect150">Si decides tomar un rápido almuerzo, <link-text>pasa al número 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">Si decides explorar la cabaña, <link-text>pasa al 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">Si prefieres salir y continuar tu camino, <link-text>pasa al 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al salir del agua fangosa te recibe una andanada de negras flechas. Corres a refugiarte entre los árboles y esperas a que los giaks se alejen de la orilla opuesta para proseguir a pie tu camino hacia la capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Pasa al número 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El hombre está malherido y a punto de morir. Si posees la disciplina de Curación, puedes aliviar el dolor de sus heridas, pero éstas son tan graves que tú no eres capaz de curarlas sólo con tus conocimientos. El soldado pierde el sentido. Procuras acomodarle lo mejor posible al pie de un gran roble antes de partir. Luego reemprendes tu marcha hacia el nordeste a través del espeso bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Pasa al número 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Espoleas al caballo para que descienda al galope por el largo y recto sendero. A lo lejos divisas la silueta de Holmgard recortada contra el horizonte, con sus altas murallas y agujas resplandeciendo al sol de la mañana. El sendero por el que avanzas empalma con un camino que va de norte a sur. Es la principal calzada de portazgo que une el puerto nórdico de Toran con la capital. Te diriges hacia Holmgard, siempre vigilante por si aparece algún kraan en el claro cielo de la mañana.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Pasa al número 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al abrirte camino penosamente entre las zarzas, las espinas te desgarran la capa y te hacen profundos arañazos en los brazos y en las piernas. Unos quince minutos más tarde logras salir de los zarzales y tambaleándote sigues andando entre los árboles.</p>
- <p>Resta 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de los que tengas actualmente, por las heridas que has sufrido.</p>
- <p>Te sientes algo aturdido y los párpados te pesan como losas. De pronto te encuentras al borde de una empinada pendiente cubierta de árboles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">Si deseas bajar por la pendiente con el mayor cuidado posible, <link-text>pasa al número 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">Si consideras que en tu actual estado de somnolencia no te encuentras en condiciones de arriesgarte a efectuar ese difícil descenso, camina por el borde de la pendiente <link-text>pasando al número 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Oyes detrás de ti el estruendo de los sanguinarios giaks que están matando a los caballos que tiran del carruaje. Te arriesgas a echar un rápido vistazo por encima del hombro y ves un kraan que alza el vuelo. ¿Va a atacarte a ti o su interés se centra en otra presa? La sombra que cada vez se agranda más sobre tu cabeza te indica que tú eres la víctima pretendida por el kraan. Éste se lanza en veloz picado hacia ti.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">Si esperas a que el kraan te ataque para saltar de la silla, <link-text>pasa al número 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">Si te diriges hacia el bosque a la mayor rapidez posible, <link-text>pasa al 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">Si agachas la cabeza, rezas al cielo pidiéndole buena suerte y sigues galopando a pesar de todo, <link-text>pasa al 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de andar durante unos pocos minutos ves a un extraño personaje vestido de rojo, que permanece de pie delante de ti en medio del camino. Te vuelve la espalda. Su cabeza está cubierta con una capucha. Sobre su brazo derecho extendido se encuentra posado el cuervo negro que viste anteriormente.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="121.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Sobre su brazo derecho extendido se encuentra posado el<br />cuervo negro que viste anteriormente</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect342">Si deseas llamar a este personaje, <link-text>pasa al número 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">Si quieres aproximarte a él cautelosamente, <link-text>pasa al 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">Si prefieres empuñar tu arma y atacarle, <link-text>pasa al 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inmediatamente el caballo percibe tu comunicación y se tranquiliza. Te diriges hacia el hermoso animal y le acaricias la cabeza para calmarle. Notas que está asustado y confuso. Montas en él y le conduces al camino, reanudando tu marcha hacia el sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Pasa al número 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al morir la criatura, su cuerpo se disuelve poco a poco en un repugnante líquido verde. Observas que la hierba y las plantas sobre las que se esparce el humeante fluido se marchitan y mueren. En el suelo, junto al cuerpo caído, hay una Gema que parece valiosa.</p>
- <p>Un poco más adelante, en el mismo sendero, divisas un gran destacamento de giaks que corren hacia ti.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">Si deseas tomar la Gema, <link-text>pasa al número 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">Si prefieres alejarte de allí a toda prisa, <link-text>pasa al número 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dentro de la caja encuentras 15 Coronas de oro y una Llave de plata. Si deseas conservar la Llave, acuérdate de anotarlo en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">Puedes continuar explorando el túnel si <link-text>pasas al número 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">O puedes salir de él y descender de la colina <link-text>pasando al 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero desemboca en un gran claro. Descubres en la tierra unas extrañas huellas de garras. Son huellas de kraans. Por el número de las huellas y la extensión del terreno hollado estimas que han debido de posarse allí, en las últimas doce horas, por lo menos cinco de esas malignas criaturas.</p>
- <p>En el otro extremo del claro ves dos salidas. Una conduce al oeste, la otra al sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">Si posees la disciplina de Rastreo, <link-text>pasa al 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">Si deseas tomar el sendero del sur, <link-text>pasa al número 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">Si deseas ir hacia el oeste, <link-text>pasa al 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cabalgas internándote con rapidez en el bosque. En silencio das las gracias al Príncipe por tan buen caballo, pues aunque el terreno es una maraña de zarzas y raíces no ha tropezado una sola vez. Pronto dejas atrás a los lobos fatídicos y concedes un descanso al caballo. Ha oscurecido rápidamente y es casi de noche.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">Si deseas seguir de frente, <link-text>pasa al número 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">Si prefIeres torcer a la izquierda (en la dirección del sendero que dejaste mucho más atrás), <link-text>pasa al 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de una hora de marcha, los drakkarim se detienen de repente al ver acercarse por el sendero a una enorme criatura recubierta de grises escamas. La bestia se aproxima y tú puedes percibir su fétido aliento. Lanzando un rugido te atenaza la cabeza con sus poderosas manos palmeadas. Lo último que oyes es el agudo chasquido de tu cuello al romperse.</p>
- <p>Tu búsqueda y tu vida acaban aquí.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al apartar precavidamente el denso follaje, te horrorizas ante lo que contemplan tus ojos. En un pequeño claro delante de ti, tres giaks han atado a un hombre a una estaca y están prendiendo fuego a un montón de matorrales que han apilado a sus pies. Por su jubón le reconoces: es un guardabosques de la frontera, uno de los hombres del Rey que vigilan el reino cerca de las montañas de Durncrag en el oeste. Han debido de golpearle con saña y está casi inconsciente.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">Si posees la disciplina de Caza, <link-text>pasa al número 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">Si no la posees, debes atacar ahora a los giaks para salvar la vida al guardabosques. <link-text>Pasa al número 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llegáis a las puertas principales de la capital y tú contemplas asombrado las altas murallas de la ciudad. Con sus doscientos pies de altura, las murallas de Holmgard han resistido los estragos del tiempo y los ataques de los señores de la Oscuridad. El oficial y tú atravesáis corriendo el túnel, de unas cien yardas de longitud, que cruza la entrada y finalmente os detenéis delante de la atalaya principal. Multitudes de soldados y civiles entran y salen precipitadamente de ella.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">Si deseas seguir aún al oficial, <link-text>pasa al número 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">Si crees que tienes más posibilidades de llegar por tu propia cuenta a la ciudadela del Rey, <link-text>pasa al número 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pronto alcanzas un pequeño claro en medio del bosque. En el centro del claro hay un banco, que ha sido tallado en el tronco de un árbol. Estás hambriento y tienes que tomar ahora una comida.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect28">Cuando hayas acabado, si decides abandonar el claro por el camino del sur, <link-text>pasa al número 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">Si eliges el sendero más estrecho que conduce hacia el este, al interior del bosque, <link-text>pasa al 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de recorrer aproximadamente un cuarto de milla, oyes gritos y ruidos como truenos delante de ti. Al acercarte distingues un claro en el que reconoces las ruinas de Raumas, un antiguo templo en el bosque.</p>
- <p>Un destacamento de giaks compuesto por unos veinte o treinta poderosos guerreros está atacando las ruinas desde todos los lados. La mayoría de los giaks están ya muertos o agonizan entre los restos de las columnas de mármol, pero los restantes aún asaltan a los que pueden esconderse en el interior. De repente, un rayo azul relampagueante desbarata la primera fila de giaks, dispersando en todas direcciones a los guerreros que se tambalean bajo el peso de sus armaduras. Un giak más alto que los demás y vestido con una malla negra de pies a cabeza maldice a sus soldados y los fustiga con un látigo de púas.</p>
- <p>Aprestando tu arma avanzas hasta el borde del claro y, escondiéndote en el denso follaje, tratas de avistar a los defensores. Con gran asombro descubres que las ruinas son defendidas por un joven, más o menos de tu misma edad. Reconoces su túnica de color azul celeste, recamada de estrellas. Es un joven teúrgo del gremio de magos de Toran: un aprendiz de brujo.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="131.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Es un joven teúrgo del gremio de magos de Toran: un aprendiz de brujo</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Cinco giaks cargan contra el aprendiz enarbolando sus lanzas y el joven retrocede apresuradamente entre las ruinas. Luego se vuelve y levanta la mano izquierda, de cuyos dedos brota un rayo de llamas azules que bate a los rugientes giaks. Cerca de donde tú estás escondido pasa corriendo un giak que va a subirse a una de las columnas del templo. Lleva entre los dientes una larga daga de hoja curvada y se dispone a saltar sobre el joven brujo, que permanece en pie de espaldas a él.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">Si deseas lanzar un grito para poner en guardia al joven hechicero, <link-text>pasa al número 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">Si quieres salir de tu escondite y atacar al giak antes de que salte, <link-text>pasa al número 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">Si decides agarrar un trozo de mármol y arrojárselo a la cabeza al giak, <link-text>pasa al número 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">Si prefieres dar media vuelta y alejarte del campo de batalla retrocediendo hacia el interior del bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El guardaespaldas te mira con gesto de sospecha y cierra de golpe la puerta. Oyes voces que parlotean dentro del carruaje. De repente la puerta vuelve a abrirse y aparece la cara de un rico mercader. Reconoce tu capa del Kai y te pide disculpas por el comportamiento de su servidor.</p>
- <p>Te dice que han sido atacados varias veces desde que salieron de Toran: por los kraans, por los bandidos y salteadores. Creían que tú podías ser otro bandido. El interior del carruaje está lleno de sedas y especias. El mercader te invita a comer y tú aceptas agradecido. Después de la suntuosa comida, la fatiga de tan penosas experiencias acaba venciéndote y sumiéndote en un profundo sueño.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Pasa al número 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al aproximarte a la estatua, en su superficie de piedra aparecen varias grietas. De repente la estatua estalla: una auténtica serpiente alada se libera de su manto pétreo y te ataca.</p>
- <p>Debes combatir a esa criatura.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Serpiente alada</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>(El animal es inmune al Ataque psíquico.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">Si ganas la pelea, <link-text>pasa al número 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Utilizando tus destrezas detectas huellas de giak alrededor del perímetro del claro. Las huellas son recientes y de ellas deduces que esos crueles servidores de los señores de la Oscuridad han estado en esa zona hace menos de dos horas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">Prevenido por este conocimiento, si decides explorar las cabañas, <link-text>pasa al número 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">Si prefieres evitar el claro, <link-text>pasa al número 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Oteando por encima de la abrupta orilla del río ves junto al borde del agua ramas que ha arrastrado la corriente. Un enorme tronco de árbol está varado en el barro de la ribera al lado de una barquilla.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect223">Si deseas servirte del tronco para flotar río abajo, <link-text>pasa al número 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">Si quieres usar la barquilla, <link-text>pasa al número 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los giaks se van acercando y después se arrastran por el suelo como si se dispusieran a atacar súbitamente. Ves las afiladas puntas de sus lanzas y oyes su lenguaje grave y gutural. El más corpulento de los dos giaks grita:</p>
- <p>-¡Orgadak taag! ¡Nogjat aga ok!</p>
- <p>Y te ataca.</p>
- <p>Debes luchar sucesivamente contra los dos giaks. Suma 1 punto a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> durante esta pelea, ya que tienes a tu favor la ventaja de estar en una posición más elevada.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect313">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect137-1-foot" idref="sect137-1">
- <p>Cuenta las 20 Gemas como un Objeto Especial.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando la ú1tima de esas sucias criaturas muere, la luz verdosa empieza a extinguirse. Descubres que dentro de cada una de las calaveras rotas hay una Gema. Tomas <footref id="sect137-1" idref="sect137-1-foot">20 de esas Gemas</footref> antes de que la cámara se sumerja en la más completa oscuridad. Recuerda anotarlas en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>Rápidamente abandonas a los bichos muertos de la cripta y prosigues tu camino.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Pasa al número 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Preparas tu arma y sales al encuentro del enemigo. Son dos giaks de las montañas y debes luchar contra ellos de uno en uno.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect291">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El patio interior bulle de actividad. Los soldados de caballería esperan junto a sus inquietos caballos las órdenes que les transmiten los comandantes de sus unidades reunidos en el Gran Salón. A su vez ellos llevan esas órdenes con gran rapidez a los defensores de las fortificaciones exteriores. Tan pronto como unos parten, otros regresan, a menudo sin aliento y heridos.</p>
- <p>Apenas si has dado media docena de pasos a través del patio cuando oyes una voz grave que retumba:</p>
- <p>-¡Detengan a ese hombre!</p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Pasa al número 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás en un claro en el que han sido talados varios árboles y con ellos se ha construido una tosca atalaya. Del pie de la torre tres caminos parten en diferentes direcciones.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="140.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect14">Si tomas el sendero del sur, <link-text>pasa al número 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">Si eliges el sendero del este, <link-text>pasa al 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">Si prefieres seguir el sendero del sudoeste, <link-text>pasa al 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">Si decides trepar a la atalaya, <link-text>pasa al 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu Sexto sentido te avisa de que algunas de las criaturas que atacaron el monasterio están registrando los dos caminos en busca de supervivientes de su ataque. Sin embargo, tú puedes evitar esos dos caminos atravesando la espesura del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">Si deseas encaminarte hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al número 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">Si quieres atajar a través del denso follaje en dirección nordeste, <link-text>pasa al 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Divisas las altas murallas blancas y grises y las resplandecientes torres de Holmgard, sus banderas ondeando desde las almenas a la fresca brisa de la mañana. El río Eledil, que nace en las montañas occidentales de la cordillera Durncrag, sigue su curso atravesando la capital hasta ir a desembocar en el golfo Holm. Un gran ejército negro desciende de los picos de las montañas y avanza implacable hacia la ciudad.</p>
- <p>A tu derecha puedes ver el camino real que a través de la ondulada llanura conduce a Holmgard. Yendo por él puedes alcanzar en una hora las fortificaciones externas de las defensas de la ciudad, pero la mayor parte del tiempo estarías al descubierto y serías vulnerable al ataque de los kraans. En cambio, delante de ti, un ancho y fangoso río fluye perezosamente hacia el Eledil. Podrías nadar por él hasta la capital, amparado por la vegetación de las orillas del río. Por último, a tu izquierda se halla el cementerio de los antepasados. Esas tumbas y monumentos ruinosos de una edad olvidada ocultarían tu avance, pero se trata de una zona prohibida. Innumerables horrores sin nombre duermen impacientes entre esas ruinas. esperando hacer presa en el imprudente intruso.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect58">Si quieres probar suerte por el camino real, <link-text>pasa al número 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">Si consideras que tienes más probabilidades de llegar a la capital por el río, <link-text>pasa al número 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">Si eres tan valiente como para afrontar los peligros desconocidos que te acechan en el cementerio de los antepasados, <link-text>pasa al número 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pronto emerges del bosque y encuentras un importante camino real. Como puedes reconocer, es la calzada principal que une el puerto de Toran al norte con la capital al sur. Calculas que, espoleando al caballo, puedes llegar a la capital al día siguiente por la mañana.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Pasa al número 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con gran esfuerzo te abres camino entre aquella aglomeración de gente a lo largo de la calle principal hacia la ciudadela que se divisa a lo lejos. La multitud corre a la desbandada de un lado a otro, aterrada al oír los graznidos de los kraans que vuelan en círculo sobre sus cabezas.</p>
- <p>En aquellas apreturas te roban un objeto de la mochila. Si ya no tienes mochila, pierdes un arma. Acuérdate de anotarlo en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>Un caballo desbocado que tira de un carro pasa a la carrera junto a ti y te arroja contra una puerta. Quedas aturdido y pierdes 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Al ponerte en pie tambaleándote, la puerta se abre de súbito y te ataca un anciano decrépito con una cuchilla de carnicero. Está completamente loco y debes luchar contra él o emprender la huida.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">Si eliges luchar, <link-text>pasa al número 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">Si deseas eludir el combate, <link-text>pasa al 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sientes como si te atropellara un carro o una carreta. Al caer de bruces, lo último que recuerdas antes de sumirte en la oscuridad es el sabor a polvo del camino y el terrible dolor de la espalda.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Pasa al número 165</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de cabalgar aproximadamente una milla te derriba del caballo una flecha que pasa rozándote la frente. Pierdes 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
- <p>Al ponerte de pie, ves una patrulla de drakkarim que sale del bosque a ambos lados del camino. Has caído en una emboscada y debes escapar hacia el interior del bosque lo más rápidamente posible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Pasa al número 154</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect147-1-foot" idref="sect147-1">
- <p>La formulación del texto de esta sección da por hecho que llegas a ella desde la <a idref="sect28">Sección 28</a>. Únicamente si has llegado a esta sección desde la <a idref="sect42">Sección 42</a>, lee la última frase y las opciones como sigue: <quote><ch.lellips/>Mientras comes, observas que el camino comienza a torcer hacie el norte. Si deseas seguirlo, <a idref="sect28">pasa al número 28</a>. Si quieres deshacer el camino andado, <a idref="sect42">pasa al número 42</a>.</quote></p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llevas caminando unos pocos minutos cuando descubres una musgosa cabaña algo alejada del camino. Tienes hambre y debes tomar aquí una comida o perderás 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Mientras comes, observas que el camino comienza a torcer hacia el este. <footref id="sect147-1" idref="sect147-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect42">Si deseas seguirlo, <link-text>pasa al número 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">Si quieres deshacer el camino andado, <link-text>pasa al número 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Abriendo la puerta de una patada, entras como una tromba en la casa de labor. Un kraan planea en el cielo sobre el edificio, lanzando un graznido de victoria, pues de sus garras pende una víctima. Te pones en pie y compruebas que estás solo. Pero apoyado contra el hogar hay un martillo de guerra. Puedes tomarlo si quieres.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">Si deseas permanecer en la casa, <link-text>pasa al número 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">Si crees que es más seguro internarte en el bosque, puedes aventurarte a salir corriendo y <link-text>pasar al número 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">Si decides explorar la habitación en la que te encuentras, <link-text>pasa al número 199</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mientras cabalgas por el camino real, notas que está empezando a oscurecer. Pronto se hará completamente de noche y será imposible ver los peligros que pueden acecharte. Decides ocultarte y descansar a orillas del bosque hasta que amanezca.</p>
- <p>Cuando te convences de que nadie puede descubrirte, te arropas con la verde capa y al poco tiempo te duermes con un sueño intranquilo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Pasa al número 256</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aunque un poco quemado, el guiso sabe bien (pero no es suficiente para una comida) y el agua fresca te calma la sed. Cuando llevas más de media hora descansando en aquella cabaña, caes en la cuenta de repente del retraso que ello supone para tu viaje.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">Prepara tu equipo y ponte en marcha. <link-text>Pasa al número 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Si te concentraras en la cerradura, podrías mover el mecanismo y abrir la puerta. Luego podrías levantar con tu fuerza psíquica el alfiler y sacarlo de la chapa para no ser presa de las posibles trampas que pueden accionarse cuando la puerta se abra.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina de Poder mental sobre la materia para abrir esa cerradura y levantar el alfiler, <link-text>pasa al número 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">Si deseas quitar el alfiler, <link-text>pasa al número 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El herbolario te ofrece una selección de pociones especiales. Unas sirven para aumentar las fuerzas, otras vuelven invisible al que las bebe, otras otorgan el don de la cautela y otras comunican el poder de convertirse en forma gaseosa. El hombre abre el cajón inferior del mostrador para enseñarte una magnífica vara mágica. Dice que es una poderosa arma contra todas las criaturas del mal y que te hará invulnerable en la batalla. Te señala la misteriosa inscripción que cubre la negra vara.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>El herbolario te ofrece una selección de pociones especiales</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="656" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="656" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect49">Si quieres inclinarte sobre el mostrador para leer la extraña inscripción, <link-text>pasa al número 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">Si te interesan más las pociones, <link-text>pasa al 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ante ti se alzan las altas murallas blancas y grises y las resplandecientes torres de Holmgard, con las banderas de la ciudad ondeando desde las almenas a la fresca brisa de la mañana. El río Eledil, que nace en las montañas occidentales de la cordillera Durncrag, sigue su curso hasta ir a desembocar en el golfo Holm. De los picos de las montañas desciende un gran ejército negro que avanza implacable hacia la capital.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="153.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Puedes ver a tu derecha el camino real que por la ondulada llanura conduce a Holmgard. Yendo por él al galope puedes alcanzar en menos de una hora las fortificaciones exteriores de las defensas de la ciudad, pero la mayor parte del tiempo estarías al descubierto y serías vulnerable al ataque de los kraans. Enfrente de ti, un ancho río fluye perezosamente hacia el Eledil. Si abandonas el caballo podrias nadar por ese afluente hasta las fortificaciones exteriores, amparándote en la vegetación de las orillas. A tu izquierda se halla el cementerio de los antepasados. Esas tumbas y monumentos en ruinas de una edad olvidada ocultarían tu avance, pero se trata de una zona prohibida. Horrores innumerables y sin nombre duermen impacientes en ese lugar esperando atacar al imprudente que se atreva a entrar en él.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">Si quieres probar suerte por el camino real, <link-text>pasa al número 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">Si crees que tienes más probabilidades de llegar a la capital por el río, <link-text>pasa al número 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">Si tienes el valor de afrontar los riesgos desconocidos del cementerio de los antepasados, <link-text>pasa al número 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás conmocionado por la herida y caminas tambaleándote entre los árboles como un ciego.</p>
- <p>De repente caes hacia adelante como si te hubieran arrebatado el suelo bajo los pies. Has caído en la trampa de un cazador. Al mirar hacia arriba ves a cuatro drakkarim que te apuntan con sus arcos. Sus feos rostros te hacen visajes de burla y desprecio.</p>
- <p>Mientras todo oscurece, lo último que sientes son las negras flechas de sus arcos penetrando profundamente en tu pecho.</p>
- <p>Has fracasado en tu misión.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando tú te acercas, el grupo de gente cesa de hablar. Deduces de sus expresiones que han reconocido tu verde capa del Kai. Muy despacio, uno de los hombres te tiende la mano en señal de amistad y dice:</p>
- <p>-Señor, hemos oído el rumor de que el Kai ha sido destruido. Que los cielos sean alabados si no es así. Temíamos que todo estaba perdido.</p>
- <p>Tú no les dices nada acerca de la destrucción del monasterio, pues son refugiados procedentes de Toran y han perdido todo cuanto poseían. Ahora su única esperanza es que los señores del Kai dirijan el ejército a la victoria. Te enteras de que el puerto del norte fue atacado por mar y aire y de que las fuerzas de los señores de la Oscuridad eran mucho más numerosas que la valiente guarnición del Rey. Les aseguras que Sommerlund no será vencido y les deseas suerte en su viaje.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Pasa al número 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Negras flechas se clavan en el barro a tu alrededor. En la inclinada pendiente de la orilla del río aparecen más giaks que disparan contra ti. No hay donde refugiarse en esa orilla del río.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect294">Si deseas tirarte al agua y nadar a favor de la corriente, <link-text>pasa al número 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">Si quieres atravesar el río a nado para buscar refugio entre los árboles de la otra orilla, <link-text>pasa al 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El bosque empieza a aclararse hasta que finalmente descubres ante ti un camino entre los árboles. El camino está lleno de gente que se dirige hacia el sur. Muchos empujan carros de mano en los que transportan sus posesiones.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">Si deseas unirte a los refugiados y enterarte tal vez de más cosas sobre lo que ha sucedido en el norte, <link-text>pasa al número 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">Si prefieres continuar hacia el sur, pero bajo el amparo de los árboles del bosque, <link-text>pasa al 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La Llave encaja y la cerradura se abre. Empujas la puerta y te encuentras frente a un extraño anciano. En su mano derecha tiene un bastón. De repente, un rayo relampagueante sale disparado del bastón y te hiere en el pecho. Pierdes 6 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. Gritando de dolor apartas de un golpe al anciano y subes corriendo las escaleras hacia la luz del día. Estás a la mitad de la subida cuando el viejo te lanza otro rayo.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <p>Si el número está entre el 0 y el 5, el rayo no te da y se estrella contra la pared.</p>
- <p>Si el número se encuentra entre el 6 y el 9, el rayo te alcanza en la espalda y pierdes otros 4 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
- <p>Si sobrevives, llegas al exterior dando tumbos y maldiciendo tu mala suerte. Pues fue mala suerte descubrir por casualidad el templo secreto de la secta de malvados druidas. Pero eres afortunado de haber escapado con vida. Rápidamente vuelves al camino, que ahora se pierde al otro lado de la colina.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small15.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small15.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Pasa al número 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu plan no da resultado, pues el mercader no te permite entrar en su carruaje. De pronto da un chasquido con los dedos y el guardaespaldas echa mano de su cimitarra.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">Si quieres luchar con él, <link-text>pasa al número 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">Si decides saltar del carruaje en marcha y escapar corriendo, <link-text>pasa al 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">Si está entre el 0 y el 4, eres descubierto y <link-text>pasas al número 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">Si el número está entre el 5 y el 9, los lobos fatídicos no te descubren y se alejan lentamente por el otro extremo de la pendiente. <link-text>Pasa al número 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando te sientas en el trono, la serpiente de piedra avanza despacio sobre su columna. De repente un frío sudor comienza a recorrerte el cuerpo. Empuñas el arma con mano temblorosa por si la serpiente te ataca. De la cabeza de esa extraña estatua surge una roja lengua bífida que se hunde en el cuenco de luz verde encima de tu cabeza. Lentamente la lengua emerge sujetando una Llave de oro que, con gran sorpresa tuya, deja caer en tu regazo. Un panel en la pared oriental se abre con un ruido metálico poniendo al descubierto una salida.</p>
- <p>Tomas la Llave y sales de la cámara lo más rápidamente posible.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Pasa al número 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al aproximarte a los hombres, les llamas. Ellos se vuelven para mirarte y tu sientes un escalofrío y el corazón comienza a latirte con violencia: son drakkarim disfrazados que de repente cargan contra ti. Te derriban al suelo, te atan con cuerdas y te arrastran tras ellos a lo largo del camino. Te han quitado la mochila y las armas, pero no te han registrado la ropa ni despojado de las Coronas de oro. Se ríen amenazadoramente y comentan con todo detalle las torturas que te esperan en su campamento.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">Si posees la disciplina de Poder mental sobre la materia, <link-text>pasa al número 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">Si no posees esa habilidad, <link-text>pasa al 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al cabo de casi media hora notas que la corriente se vuelve más impetuosa. Alzando la cabeza para mirar sobre la superficie del agua, descubres que te estás acercando a un remolino en medio de una gran curva del río. Si te atrapa, es seguro que te ahogarás, así que nadas raudamente hacia la orilla derecha y continúas tu misión a pie, cargando con todo tu equipo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Pasa al número 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de abrir con cuidado los tapones de las botellas hueles su contenido. Parece que son diferentes clases de vinos. De pronto te fijas en una botellita que estaba medio oculta por las otras. Le quitas el tapón y por el olor reconoces que es aléter, una poción vigorizante de color anaranjado.</p>
- <p>Puedes quedarte con esta poción y beberla antes de alguna pelea. Aumentará en 2 puntos tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> mientras dure la lucha. No te olvides de anotarla en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> y de tacharla cuando la hayas usado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">Después decides explorar el establo <link-text>pasando al número 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te despiertas con fiebre. Ante tus ojos desfilan imágenes que en seguida se desvanecen. El dolor de la espalda es muy intenso y te hace gritar para desahogarte. Sientes sobre tu frente un paño frío y húmedo y vislumbras el rostro preocupado de una joven. Un anciano le susurra algo al oído y luego desaparece de tu vista. La muchacha se arrodilla a tu lado y te conforta con palabras amables y tranquilizadoras. Pero la luz vuelve a extinguirse rápidamente y de nuevo te hundes en una total oscuridad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212"><link-text>Pasa al número 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás en presencia de un gran mal. Tu mente es sometida a prueba por un ser poderoso e intemporal y debes defenderte. La lucha ha comenzado y tu cordura está en peligro. Se trata de una prueba larga y tortuosa durante la cual experimentas muchas apariciones fantásticas y terribles que te tientan y espantan. Después de ella pierdes 4 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y caminas vacilante hacia el túnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Pasa al número 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llevas recorrida aproximadamente una milla cuando divisas dos piernas que asoman por detrás de una gran roca.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">Si posees y decides utilizar la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al número 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">Si deseas examinarlas más de cerca, <link-text>pasa al número 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">Si prefieres evitar el encuentro con la persona a quien pertenezcan esas piernas y seguir tu camino por el bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trepas al techo del opulento carruaje y te acurrucas entre los baúles y fardos del equipaje. La noche pronto cubrirá con su oscuridad el camino. Un viento frío sopla del oeste y te arropas en la capa para resguardarte de él. Escuchas voces debajo de ti en el carruaje y percibes un aroma de carne adobada que te hace la boca agua. Eso te recuerda que estás hambriento y que debes comer ahora.</p>
- <p>La fatiga de tantas peripecias acaba por vencerte y te duermes con un sueño intranquilo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Pasa al número 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al pasar junto a las calaveras, cada una de ellas gira lentamente como para vigilar todos tus movimientos. Has atravesado media cámara cuando oyes el agudo crujido de huesos que se rompen. En esto ves unas formas horribles que asoman por el interior de las calaveras y extienden sus alas.</p>
- <p>Diez criaturas aladas y viscosas te atacan y debes combatir contra ellas como si fueran un único enemigo.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bichos de la cripta</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect23">Puedes eludir el combate después del primer asalto y escapar a través del corredor abovedado <link-text>pasando al número 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">Si vences en el combate, <link-text>pasa al 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El túnel está oscuro y en su interior el aire es mucho más frío que fuera. Avanzas con mucha precaución apoyando una mano en la pared del túnel para ayudar a tu sentido de la orientación. Después de caminar durante unos tres minutos en total oscuridad, percibes un olor a podrido delante de ti, semejante al de carne putrefacta. Si tienes una antorcha y yesca, enciende la antorcha para ver por donde vas.</p>
- <p>De repente algo muy pesado se precipita desde el techo sobre tu espalda y te hace caer de rodillas. Es un alacrán zapador y debes luchar contra él, pues trata de estrangularte con sus largos tentáculos viscosos.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="530" width="386" src="170.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Es un alacrán zapador y debes luchar contra él, pues trata de estrangularte con sus largos tentáculos viscosos</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="684" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="684" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Alacrán zapador</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">7</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Si no tienes antorcha, resta 3 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> durante esta lucha. El alacrán zapador es inmune al ataque psíquico e insensible a la afinidad animal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás en el lindero mismo del bosque cuando tu caballo se encabrita agonizante. El kraan ha hincado sus garras en las patas traseras del caballo e intenta tirarte al suelo batiéndote con sus alas. El cruel jinete giak chilla con deleite al azuzarte con su lanza. Saltas de la silla y corres a refugiarte entre los árboles, abandonando al pobre caballo moribundo entre las garras del kraan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Pasa al número 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Se hace de noche y pronto te rodea la oscuridad. Seguir adelante no tiene sentido, pues es seguro que te perderías. Atas el caballo a un árbol y te envuelves en la verde capa del Kai. En seguida te quedas dormido, pero tu sueño es desasosegado.</p>
- <p>Te despierta el sonido lejano de tropas. Ves al otro lado del lago las negras figuras de los drakkarim y una manada de lobos fatídicos. Un kraan aparece encima de los árboles y se posa en el tejado de una choza de madera. Está montado por una criatura vestida de rojo. El kraan levanta el vuelo y empieza a cruzar el lago hacia el sitio donde tú estás escondido.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="172.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect114">Si deseas usar la disciplina de Camuflaje para ocultarte tú y tu caballo, <link-text>pasa al 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">Si deseas cabalgar hacia el interior del bosque para escapar del kraan, <link-text>pasa al número 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">Si deseas disponerte a luchar contra esa bestia, <link-text>pasa al 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al llegar a la puerta oyes el estruendo que produce una losa gigante que cae del techo. Giras sobre ti mismo y ves que la salida está bloqueada.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">Si tienes una Llave de plata, puedes intentar abrir la puerta <link-text>pasando al número 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">Si no posees una Llave de plata, <link-text>pasa al número 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llevas casi una hora flotando río abajo y la corriente se ha vuelto mucho más impetuosa. Eres arrastrado hacia un remolino que hay en el centro de un meandro del río. Comprendes que, si te atrapa ese remolino, tendrás muy pocas posibilidades de librarte de morir ahogado. Te arrojas al agua y, cuando empiezas a nadar en dirección a la orilla, tienes la mala suerte de perder la mochila y las armas. Sin tu equipo llegas a la ribera, que está cubierta de árboles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Pasa al número 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Haciendo señas con los brazos a la caballería que se aproxima, reconoces en esos jinetes a guardabosques del ejército real, leñadores aguerridos que vigilan la revuelta frontera occidental del reino. Tu alegría al verles pronto se desvanece cuando descubres que huyen de una manada de lobos fatídicos montados por vociferantes giaks. Flechas negras caen sobre los guardabosques a medida que los lobos fatídicos se les acercan más y más.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">Si posees la disciplina de Camuflaje, <link-text>pasa al número 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">Si deseas ponerte a cubierto y esconderte, <link-text>pasa al número 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">Si quieres cruzar a la otra orilla, <link-text>pasa al número 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te escondes detrás de unos espesos arbustos de manera que el lobo fatídico y su jinete no vean tu caballo blanco. Afortunadamente consigues no ser descubierto: la bestia pasa de largo al trote y desaparece por el camino que tú has seguido.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small17.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small17.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect253">Si deseas atacar a los restantes lobos fatídicos y a sus jinetes, <link-text>pasa al número 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">Si decides continuar internándote en el bosque, <link-text>pasa al 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Registras todos los armarios de la pequeña cabaña, pero no encuentras nada de utilidad o de valor. Te das cuenta de que has perdido demasiado tiempo allí y debes proseguir tu viaje sin más tardanza.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Pasa al número 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu destreza te permite reconocer las botas y polainas de un soldado del Rey. Presientes que el hombre está herido y necesita ayuda.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">Si deseas ayudarle, <link-text>pasa al número 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">Si prefieres dejarle allí, <link-text>pasa al 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Has sido divisado por los guardias, que te apuntan con sus ballestas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">Si decides levantar las manos sobre la cabeza y caminar despacio hacia ellos, <link-text>pasa al número 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">Si deseas correr a refugiarte entre los árboles, <link-text>pasa al 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te ven alzar el arma y al instante te atacan.</p>
- <p>Si decides luchar contra ellos, debes hacerlo de uno en uno.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Jefe</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Soldado 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Soldado 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect62">Si matas a los tres, <link-text>pasa al número 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">Si deseas eludir la lucha, <link-text>pasa al 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect181-1-foot" idref="sect181-1">
- <p>Al final del segundo párrafo dice: <quote>Has perdido las armas y el equipo.</quote> Puedes ignorar esta información a no ser que te hayas rendido a los bandidos (esto es, si has llegado a esta sección procedente de la <a idref="sect205">Sección 205</a>). No hagas cambios en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>. La orden se refiere a lo que ocurre en la <a idref="sect205">Sección 205</a>, pero también se puede llegar a esta sección desde la <a idref="sect22">Sección 22</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instintivamente te agachas y te tiras al suelo para esquivar la saeta de la ballesta. El bandido dispara y notas que la saeta te roza el brazo izquierdo desgarrándote la manga del jubón. Das gracias a los dioses por tu buena suerte y echas a correr con toda la rapidez que te permiten tus piernas.</p>
- <p>Los otros bandidos no tienen ballestas y pronto desisten de darte caza. Después de correr un buen trecho, les dejas muy atrás. <footref id="sect181-1" idref="sect181-1-foot">Has perdido las armas y el equipo,</footref> pero no la vida.</p>
- <p>Te detienes lo suficiente para vendarte el brazo herido y luego continúas caminando hacia las defensas exteriores de la capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Pasa al número 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tres guardabosques pasan al galope por la orilla del río, perseguidos de cerca por giaks montados en rugientes lobos fatídicos. Pero la disciplina de Camuflaje te salva de ser descubierto. El destacamento de malvados giaks prosigue su persecución sin dirigir una sola mirada al río.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Pasa al número 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El oficial ordena a sus hombres que se detengan y te pregunta qué vas buscando. Le dices quién eres y cómo el monasterio del Kai ha sido destruido. Tu información le entristece profundamente. Te ofrece un caballo y te ruega que le acompañes a ver al Príncipe Pelathar, el hijo del Rey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">Si aceptas, <link-text>pasa al número 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">Si decides declinar su ofrecimiento, <link-text>pasa al 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El carruaje corre sin gobierno y dando tumbos por el desigual terreno que bordea el camino. Con gran dificultad consigues conducir a los caballos espantados al camino y detener el carruaje.</p>
- <p>Una rápida búsqueda en su interior te permite encontrar 40 Coronas de oro, una Espada y provisiones suficientes para 4 comidas. Si deseas quedarte con todos esos artículos, anótalos en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>La fatiga de tantas penalidades acaba por vencerte. Debes tomar una comida. Después te quedas profundamente dormido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Pasa al número 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aguzas la vista y escudriñas los árboles tratando de descubrir algún indicio del arquero escondido. No tienes que esperar mucho, pues al momento un intenso dolor te lacera el pecho y el empuje de tres negras flechas te derriba de espaldas. Dos de ellas se te han clavado profundamente entre las costillas y la tercera te ha atravesado el muslo.</p>
- <p>Lo último que ven tus ojos son las altas copas de los árboles encima de ti y una gran libélula verde que se posa sobre la hebilla de tu cinturón.</p>
- <choice>Tu vida y tu misión terminan aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los kakarmi desaparecen entre la densa maleza y tú te encuentras pronto perdido. Después de andar sin rumbo durante casi dos horas, oyes el sonido de una corriente de agua. Decides investigar más de cerca.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Pasa al número 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dos caras peludas aparecen por encima del tronco. Y dos pares de ojos miran fijamente tu arma. Ambos animalitos lanzan un grito de terror y, saltando del tronco, desaparecen en el interior del bosque.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="187.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect186">Si deseas seguirlos, <link-text>pasa al número 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">Si prefieres dejarlos en paz y continuar tu camino, <link-text>pasa al número 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ves cómo la sombra del kraan se agranda a tu alrededor. De repente te ataca y te derriba boca abajo con la fuerza de su acometida.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <p>Si el número así obtenido está entre el 0 y el 6, el kraan te arrebata la mochila. Pierdes así todo tu equipo.</p>
- <p>Si el número está entre el 7 y el 9, Conservas intacta la mochila, pero resultas herido en ambos brazos. Pierdes 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y corres a refugiarte entre los árboles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Pasa ahora al número 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Agradeces el entrenamiento del Kai y tu rapidez de pensamiento, pues el pantano podía haber resultado tan mortífero como cualquier drakkarim o kraan.</p>
- <p>Te preocupa el tiempo que has perdido y te apresuras a reemprender la marcha a través del bosque hacia el sur. Ves delante de ti una ancha senda que conduce en esa dirección.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118"><link-text>Pasa al número 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caminas tres millas por la orilla del río hasta que topas con los restos de una barcaza. Parece haber servido de refugio a alguien, pues a través de una abertura en la cubierta ves una cama y utensilios de cocina.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small19.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small19.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect20">Si deseas explorar la barcaza, <link-text>pasa al número 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">Si quieres proseguir tu camino, <link-text>pasa al 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El guardaespaldas desenvaina una gran cimitarra y la esgrime sobre tu cabeza.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Guardaespaldas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect24">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">Si durante la lucha deseas eludir el combate, puedes saltar del carruaje en marcha <link-text>pasando al número 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ves las mandíbulas de afilados colmillos de los lobos fatídicos y oyes los horribles gritos de los giaks. Dos de ellos vienen derechos contra ti. Tu caballo salta sobre las bestias que se aproximan y las cocea hasta tirarlas al suelo, salvándote de una muerte cierta. Golpeas con furia a un giak abriéndole una ancha herida en la cabeza. De pronto, como por un milagro, has atravesado la manada de lobos y sigues al galope por el camino despejado.</p>
- <p>Pero una sombra te persigue. Es un kraan que se lanza en picado. Su blanco eres tú.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">Si te desvías del camino y tuerces para ponerte a resguardo entre los árboles, <link-text>pasa al número 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">Si, haciendo caso omiso del kraan, continúas galopando por el camino a la mayor velocidad posible, <link-text>pasa al número 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La bestia y su jinete yacen muertos. Encuentras un Pergamino medio oculto entre el cinturón del giak. Puedes tomarlo si lo deseas, pero recuerda anotarlo en tu Carta de Acción. Los otros lobos fatídicos se lanzan a la carga contra ti por el sendero.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">Si deseas combatir contra ellos, <link-text>pasa al número 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">Si deseas escapar al interior del bosque, <link-text>pasa al 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Saltas hacia el carro. La gente corre en todas direcciones cuando los kraan atacan y se llevan por los aires tenebrosos a sus pobres víctimas. Un enorme kraan planea sobre el carro y tres rugientes giaks saltan de su lomo sobre los espantados caballos. Debes pelear contra ellos o abandonar el carro y correr a refugiarte en una casa de labor cercana.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">Si deseas luchar con los giaks, <link-text>pasa al número 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">Si quieres salir corriendo hacia la casa de labor, <link-text>pasa al 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Limpiando la sangre del oso de tu arma, descubres la boca de una cueva escondida detrás de la roca desde la que te atacó el oso.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">Si deseas investigar en la cueva, <link-text>pasa al número 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">Si decides proseguir tu camino, <link-text>pasa al número 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sigues al hombre que te conduce a una pequeña biblioteca fuera de la sala principal. Empuja uno de los numerosos libros que se alinean en las estanterías a lo largo de las cuatro paredes y oyes un clic metálico. Una sección de la librería se desliza lentamente hacia atrás y deja al descubierto un pasadizo secreto.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">Si deseas seguir al hombre por el pasadizo, <link-text>pasa al número 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">Si no quieres entrar en el oscuro corredor, sal del ayuntamiento y vuelve a la calle. <link-text>Pasa en ese caso al número 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El drakkar yace muerto en el fondo de la balsa. Tiene una Espada corta y 6 Coronas de oro que si quieres puedes quedarte. Arrojas el cadáver al agua, donde flota unos pocos segundos antes de desaparecer en el fondo helado.</p>
- <p>Agarrando el timón, conduces la balsa al otro lado del lago, donde desembarcas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Pasa al número 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Presientes que hay alguien más detrás de la mampara. En la tienda reina una extraña atmósfera de maldad. Mantente en guardia, algo no va bien.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">Si deseas salir a la calle, <link-text>pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">Si decides examinar los artículos del mostrador, <link-text>pasa al número 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La mayor parte de los armarios y cajones están vacíos. Quienquiera que viviese allí se llevó casi todas sus posesiones. Aun así consigues reunir en el sótano fruta suficiente para una comida. Anótala en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Pasa al número 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Comienza a hacerse de noche. Las sombras de los árboles se tornan más largas y oscuras. Cuando te dispones a hacer un alto y descansar, ves a través de los árboles filas de gentes que caminan hacia el sur por una amplia calzada. Te acercas y divisas un gran carruaje de mercader en medio de una nube de polvo. Va tirado por seis potentes caballos y avanza mucho más deprisa que el resto de los vehículos. Podría ser para ti un medio de llegar con mayor rapidez a la capital.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Te acercas y divisas un gran carruaje de mercader<br />en medio de una nube de polvo</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="692" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="692" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect168">Si deseas utilizar la disciplina de Camuflaje y esconderte entre los bultos del equipaje atados en el techo del carruaje, <link-text>pasa al número 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">Si decides saltar al carruaje, <link-text>pasa al número 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sigues el abrupto sendero durante casi una hora hasta que descubres delante de ti una bifurcación de la que sale una senda más ancha que conduce hacia el sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">Si deseas dirigirte hacia el sur por la nueva senda, <link-text>pasa al número 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">Si quieres ir hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">Si prefieres encaminarte hacia el oeste, <link-text>pasa al 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Espoleando a tu caballo, bajas al galope el largo tramo de camino en dirección hacia la capital. Al cabo de unos pocos minutos, el caballo aminora de pronto su marcha hasta que se para cojeando. Desmontas y alzándole la pata delantera la examinas. Maldices tu mala suerte al comprobar que ha perdido la herradura y se ha lastimado malamente la pezuña. No tienes más remedio que abandonarlo y proseguir a pie lo más deprisa que te sea posible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Pasa al número 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>De repente un punzante dolor te abrasa el pecho al estallar algo contra él en medio de una explosión de chispas rojas.</p>
- <p>Pierdes 10 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. A través del humo ves que el mago se dispone a arrojarte otro explosivo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">Si aún te quedan 10 o más puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>, <link-text>pasa al número 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">Si tienes menos de 10 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>, <link-text>pasa al 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de caminar durante una hora, llegas a una bifurcación. El sendero por el que vas continúa hacia el sur y allí se le une otro sendero que proviene del oeste. Comprendes que el sendero del oeste te llevaría de nuevo a la región pantanosa, así que prosigues hacia el sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Pasa al número 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect205-1-foot" idref="sect205-1">
- <p>Asegúrate de borrar todos los objetos y contenedores de tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> (por ejemplo Armas, Mochila, Objetos especiales y bolsillos del cinturón).</p>
- <p>El autor puede no haberse dado cuenta de que el Colgante de la Estrella de Cristal y el <a idref="map">Mapa de Sommerlund</a> pueden encontrarse entre los objetos perdidos. Simplemente puedes decidir quedarte con esos objetos si es que los tienes. No obstante, si prefieres llevar a cabo una interpretación estricta del texto, lo justo sería que no mires el <a idref="map">mapa</a> si no tienes el <a idref="map">Mapa de Sommerlund</a> como objeto en la mochila.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Su jefe recoge <footref id="sect205-1" idref="sect205-1-foot">el equipo que tú has echado a un lado</footref> y te indica que te adelantes por el camino. Muecas burlonas aparecen en los rostros de los otros dos hombres y de repente te das cuenta de que no son soldados. Tratas reparar tu error y escapar de ellos echando a correr hacia la lejana capital.</p>
- <p>Oyes detrás de ti el sonido fatídico de una ballesta al ser tensada y un escalofrío de terror te recorre la espina dorsal.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">Si el número está entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al número 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">Si está entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero desemboca pronto en un camino real donde un poste indicador señala hacia Toran al norte y hacia Holmgard al sur. Tú te diriges hacia el sur, donde está la capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Pasa al número 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La senda se une pronto con una ancha calzada que cruza la corriente por un puente de piedra. Un poste de señales en el puente apunta hacia Toran al norte y hacia Holmgard al sur. La calzada está atestada de gente que se dirige hacia el sur. Algunos empujan carritos de mano en los que llevan sus posesiones. Te reúnes con la columna de refugiados y marchas hacia la capital.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="207.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect30"><link-text>Pasa al número 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Las crueles criaturas te atacan con sus lanzas. Debes luchar contra ellas como si fueran un solo enemigo.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">13</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect148">Si vences, puedes correr a refugiarte en la casa de labor <link-text>pasando al número 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">O puedes volver al bosque <link-text>pasando al 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ves ante ti un corredor que asciende en pronunciada subida. Cuando llegas a lo más alto del mismo, una puerta de piedra se desliza hacia un lado descubriendo otro pasadizo.</p>
- <p>Te introduces por la abertura, que al instante se cierra con un crujido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Pasa al número 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En la misma puerta te detiene un oficial del ayuntamiento y te pide que le expliques el motivo de tu presencia alli. Con toda serenidad le informas de que tienes un mensaje urgente para el Rey y él se apresura a llevarte a la cámara del burgomaestre.</p>
- <p>Un distinguido anciano, vestido con una túnica de color púrpura oscuro, te saluda y escucha tu historia. Después te toma del brazo y te conduce a una biblioteca contigua, cuya puerta cierra tras él. Empujando uno de los miles de libros que se alinean en las estanterías, acciona y descorre un panel secreto en la pared. Luego te hace señas para que le sigas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">Si deseas seguirle por el oscuro pasadizo, <link-text>pasa al número 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">Si no te fías plenamente de ese hombre y prefieres salir del ayuntamiento, <link-text>pasa al número 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caminas por un corredor iluminado por una luz mortecina. El corredor desemboca en una gran cámara cuadrada con una puerta de roble en la pared opuesta.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">Si posees la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">Si deseas cruzar la cámara para ir hacia la puerta, <link-text>pasa al número 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">Si prefieres salir a la superficie y continuar tu viaje, <link-text>pasa al 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando te despiertas, del dolor sólo te queda el recuerdo. Restituye los puntos de RESISTENCIA que habías perdido, hasta recuperar la cantidad original. Un hombre de elevada estatura vestido con una blanca túnica está de pie delante de ti, con una escudilla llena de hierbas en las manos. Después de echar las hierbas en un cazo de agua hirviendo, se vuelve para saludarte.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Un hombre de elevada estatura vestido con una<br />blanca túnica está de pie delante de ti, con una escudilla<br />llena de hierbas en las manos</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <p>-Has estado muy cerca de la muerte y has contemplado su rostro, señor del Kai, pero la vieja Parca aún no te ha reclamado para que pases a formar parte de su rebaño. Estás curado en el cuerpo, pero presiento que estás herido en el espíritu. ¿Qué es lo que tanto te preocupa?</p>
- <p>Reconoces en aquel hombre a uno de los médicos más antiguos del Rey. La paloma que lleva bordada en oro en las mangas de la túnica es el emblema de su respetada profesión. Le cuentas al venerable anciano los acontecimientos que han tenido lugar en el monasterio y tu peligroso viaje para ver al Rey.</p>
- <p>Asiéndote del brazo con delicadeza te ayuda a levantarte de la cama y te ruega que le acompañes. Observas que te encuentras en una habitación ricamente decorada, de la que sale un largo corredor engalanado con tapices. Poco a poco caes en la cuenta del lugar en que te hallas.</p>
- <p>Es la ciudadela de Holmgard y estás a punto de ver al Rey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Pasa al número 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Has estado caminando penosamente por el bosque durante casi dos horas. Te asalta el temor de haberte perdido, temor que comienza a parecerte realidad. Aparte del graznido lejano y ocasional de algún kraan, no has visto ni oído ninguna otra señal que delate la presencia de enemigos en esa parte del bosque. Al descender de un rocoso promontorio divisas algo insólito en la enmarañada espesura.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Pasa al número 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero se va estrechando cada vez más hasta que desaparece por completo entre la densa maleza. No puedes seguir adelante en esa dirección, por lo que debes volver al claro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Pasa al número 125</link-text> y toma el camino del sur.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sales a un pequeño claro. En medio de él ves los restos del esqueleto de un enorme animal. Hacia el sur arranca un estrecho sendero que se pierde en la lejanía.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="215.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect346">Si deseas examinar el esqueleto, <link-text>pasa al número 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">Si prefieres continuar tu camino, <link-text>pasa al 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Le tocas con una mano la frente y con la otra el brazo herido y sientes cómo el calor de tus poderes curativos sale de tu cuerpo y comunica fuerzas al herido.</p>
- <p>Te dice que se llama Trimis y que es un soldado del ejército del Príncipe Pelathar. El Príncipe y sus tropas están librando batalla en la región del sur, donde una gran fuerza de los señores de la Oscuridad ha asaltado el puente de Alema. Durante la batalla, Trimis ha sido arrebatado en el aire por un kraan que luego le ha dejado caer en el bosque.</p>
- <p>Acomodas lo mejor posible al soldado y continúas tu misión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Pasa al número 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Escapas rápidamente del loco y doblas la esquina entrando por una oscura callejuela de casas pequeñas y apretadas unas contra otras. Al final de la callejuela, sobre una puerta verde, cuelga un letrero que dice:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small21.gif" width="386" height="125" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small21.pdf" width="386" height="125" />
- <instance class="text">
- <signpost>Kolanis<ch.emdash/>Mago y Herbolario</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect91">Si deseas penetrar en la tienda, <link-text>pasa al número 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">Si prefieres esperar hasta estar seguro de que el loco ha desaparecido y entonces volver a la calle principal, <link-text>pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tus sentidos te revelan que hacia ti se dirigen no sólo caballos. Entonces percibes a lo lejos agudos graznidos, el grito de guerra de los giaks. Por el número de graznidos y maldiciones calculas que deben de ser más de doce giaks y probablemente otros tantos lobos fatídicos. ¡Comprendes que descubrir tu presencia quizá no sea una idea tan buena como pensabas!</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Pasa al número 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lo que resta de ti está incrustado unos cinco pies en las escaleras sobre las que te encontrabas, aplastado bajo un gigantesco bloque de granito.</p>
- <choice>Tu misión y tu vida acaban aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El guardaespaldas desenfunda una cimitarra y arremete contra tu cabeza.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Guardaespaldas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect24">Si le vences, <link-text>pasa al número 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">Si deseas eludir el combate en cualquier momento de la lucha, puedes saltar del carruaje en marcha <link-text>pasando al número 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Precavidamente te acercas a la base de la empalizada. Los troncos están toscamente cortados y presentan numerosos salientes en los que puedes apoyar los pies para trepar por ellos. Al llegar a lo alto de la valla, te encuentras frente a una ballesta. El soldado que la sostiene ante tu cara te indica por señas que desciendas por una escala de madera. Sin discutir con el soldado, bajas lentamente por la escala.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="221.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Pasa al número 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Más adelante descubres un camino forestal que se bifurca.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">Si decides utilizar la disciplina de Rastreo, <link-text>pasa al número 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">Si deseas tomar el sendero del sur, <link-text>pasa al número 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">Si eliges el del este, <link-text>pasa al número 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con gran esfuerzo consigues remover el pesado tronco de la orilla. Haces un envoltorio con tu equipo y lo escondes en un hueco del tronco. Después pones éste a flote y te subes en él. La corriente pronto te empuja río abajo.</p>
- <p>Al cabo de unos siete minutos, oyes el sonido de caballos por la orilla izquierda.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">Si deseas esconderte detrás del tronco, <link-text>pasa al número 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">Si decides ponerte en pie y llamar la atención de los jinetes, <link-text>pasa al 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Has cabalgado varias millas sin avistar señal alguna de refugiados ni de enemigos. Te diriges hacia una elevada sierra que se encuentra a media distancia de allí. Desde ella es posible que divises la capital.</p>
- <p>Al alcanzar la cumbre, la vista que contemplas te llena de esperanza, pero aún tienes que enfrentarte con un reto.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Pasa al número 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reconoces el lenguaje de los kakarmi, una raza inteligente de animales que viven en los bosques de Sommerlund y cuidan de ellos. No tienes nada que temer de estos seres, pues son muy tímidos y amables en su manera de comportarse. Utilizando la disciplina de Afinidad animal les llamas en su extraña lengua nativa.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">Si les dices:<br/>-No temáis, soy un amigo;<br/><link-text>pasa al número 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">Si les dices:<br/>-Soy un señor del Kai. No deseo haceros ningún daño. Sólo quiero hablar con vosotros;<br/><link-text>pasa al número 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al principio el descenso es muy fácil, pero para ver con nitidez y las piernas te flaquean. Los arañazos que te has hecho con las plantas de adormidera empiezan a afectarte y súbitamente resbalas y caes de cabeza sumiéndote en una total oscuridad.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">Si el número está comprendido entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">Si está entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahora permaneces hundido hasta la cintura en el agua fangosa. El aire está infestado de pequeños insectos que te pican en la cara y se te meten por las narices. Algo se te enrosca alrededor de la pierna. Es una víbora de los pantanos y debes luchar con ella.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Víbora de los pantanos</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">6</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect271">Si en la pelea pierdes puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>, <link-text>pasa al número 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">Si matas al animal sin perder ningún punto de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>, <link-text>pasa al 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero continúa hacia el este, pero pronto desaparece entre la espesa maleza.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">Si prosigues tu camino en esa dirección, cortando la maleza con tu hacha, <link-text>pasa al número 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">Si te diriges hacia el sur, por donde los matorrales son menos densos, y sigues a través del bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El kraan planea sobre tu cabeza, levantando polvo con el batir de sus enormes alas negras. El polvo se te mete por los ojos y la nariz y empiezas a toser. Entonces la bestia te ataca.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small22.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small22.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Debes pelear con ella a muerte. A causa del polvo, resta 1 punto de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kraan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Si le vences, puedes elegir entre estas posibilidades:</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">Puedes registrar el cadáver del kraan <link-text>pasando al número 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">O puedes continuar tu viaje por el sendero del este <link-text>pasando al número 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A lo lejos distingues las siluetas de soldados en unas barcazas que han tendido a modo de puente a través del río. Oyes los roncos rugidos de los lobos fatídicos que vuelven por la orilla opuesta.</p>
- <p>Por una vez desechas toda precaución y corres a lo largo de la ribera hacia las distantes barcazas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Pasa al número 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás a punto de preguntarle el precío de las pocíones cuando el biombo de bambú se viene abajo con gran estrépito y un joven salta sobre ti. En la mano sostiene una larga daga de hoja curvada.</p>
- <p>Está encima de ti y debes luchar para salvar la vida.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Salteador</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect94">Si le matas en 4 asaltos, <link-text>pasa al número 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">Si después de 4 asaltos aún sigues combatiendo, <link-text>pasa al 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">Puedes dejar el combate después de 2 asaltos escapando por la puerta delantera. Si deseas hacerlo, <link-text>pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El jefe, de grosero aspecto, se acerca a ti y te dice:</p>
- <p>-Nuestras exigencias son muy simples, amable señor: la bolsa o la vida.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">Si deseas luchar contra ellos, <link-text>pasa al número 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">Si decides echar a correr, <link-text>pasa al 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al cabo de casi una hora das alcance al caballo y consigues tranquilizarlo. Te has alejado bastante al norte de la cabaña, pero confias en que encontrarás el camino de vuelta.</p>
- <p>Montas a caballo y, dejando atrás la cabaña, reanudas el viaje hacia el sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Pasa al número 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Saltas del carruaje en marcha, pero caes en muy mala postura y te rompes un tobillo. Sientes un dolor terrible y pronto pierdes el conocimiento.</p>
- <p>Por desgracia no vuelves a recobrarlo. Quizá te interese saber que tu cabeza sirve ahora de adorno a la silla de montar de un kraan.</p>
- <choice>Tu vida y tu misión acaban aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El caballo del Príncipe es realmente un magnífico animal, rápido y seguro. Galopa por el tortuoso sendero como si fuera una calzada recta. Al fin, el ruido de la batalla se extingue a lo lejos.</p>
- <p>Tienes hambre y debes tomar una comida mientras cabalgas.</p>
- <p>Al cabo de varias millas el sendero termina bruscamente en una bifurcación. Hay en ella un poste de señales, pero alguien lo ha cortado y derribado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">Si decides utilizar la disciplina de Rastreo, <link-text>pasa al 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">Si deseas torcer a la izquierda, <link-text>pasa al número 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">Si quieres doblar a la derecha, <link-text>pasa al 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect236-1-foot" idref="sect236-1">
- <p>Acuérdate de borrar la Gema Vordak de tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>. Si tienes dos Gemas, sólo tienes que borrar una de ellas. La <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> perdida es permanente para el resto de la aventura.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>La Gema flota en el aire sobre la boca del esqueleto del rey, brillando con un intenso fulgor rojo. De repente una ardiente llamarada carmesí hace explosión desde el sarcófago y <footref id="sect236-1" idref="sect236-1-foot">destroza la Gema por completo.</footref> La onda explosiva te arroja contra la pared opuesta y caes inconsciente.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="236.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small23.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small23.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Cuando despiertas, la cámara está totalmente vacía. El esqueleto del rey y el sarcófago han desaparecido. Tú pierdes 6 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y tu inicial <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> queda reducida en 1 punto para el resto de tu vida.</p>
- <p>Te pones en pie con gran cuidado y te diriges tambaleándote hacia el túnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Pasa al número 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Utilizas al máximo tu disciplina del Kai y rápidamente excavas un profundo hoyo en la tierra movediza de la arbolada ladera. Te envuelves en la capa y cubres con algunas ramas sueltas tu improvisado refugio.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">Si te sale un número entre el 0 y el 4, no eres descubierto y <link-text>pasas al número 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">Si sacas un número entre el 5 y el 9, no tienes esa suerte y <link-text>pasa al número 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero serpentea entre pequeñas colinas cubiertas de bosques y fin almente conduce hasta unas ruinas. Un fuego ha debido de arder allí hasta hace poco tiempo, pues las cenizas aún están calientes y echando humo. Presientes en ese lugar un posible peligro.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small24.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small24.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect42">Puedes partir en dirección sur <link-text>pasando al número 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">O puedes dirigirte hacia el norte <link-text>pasando al número 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mientras te internas velozmente en el bosque, oyes el aleteo del kraan que vuela sobre los árboles y desaparece hacia el norte. Sigues cabalgando durante casi una hora hasta que llegas a un claro. Del otro extremo del mismo arranca un sendero que conduce hacia el sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">Si deseas atravesar el claro y seguir ese sendero, <link-text>pasa al número 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">Si prefieres bordear el claro y tomar el sendero más adelante, <link-text>pasa al número 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero atraviesa una sierra de colinas boscosas y cambia de dirección hacia el este.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Pasa al número 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El hechicero hace caso de tu grito de aviso y se vuelve a tiempo para disparar un rayo de ardiente energía contra el giak. La cabeza del guerrero se desintegra en llamas y su cuerpo cae retorciéndose hasta quedar hecho un montón informe al pie de la columna.</p>
- <p>El oficial de los giaks te ve y grita a su intimidada tropa:</p>
- <p>-¡Ogot! ¡Ogot!</p>
- <p>Los soldados huyen a la desbandada de las ruinas buscando ponerse a salvo en el bosque lejos de aquel lugar.</p>
- <p>El joven hechicero se enjuga la frente y se acerca a ti tendiéndote la mano en señal de gratitud y amistad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Pasa al número 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La tapa del sarcófago se desliza hasta el suelo con un sordo crujido. Contemplas los restos de un antiguo rey que yace rodeado aún de su tesoro. Una corona muy adornada ciñe todavía su calavera. Las mandíbulas del esqueleto están abiertas y la boca parece una oscura sima sin fondo. Se oye un retumbar lejano que parece surgir de las profundidades de la tierra.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="242.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect166">Si posees la disciplina de Defensa psíquica, <link-text>pasa al número 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">Si no la posees, <link-text>pasa al 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al cruzar raudamente el bosque, tropiezas y caes por una escarpada pendiente yendo a parar a un sendero oculto que hay abajo. Sobre el sendero yace un cadáver. Pertenece a un giak, un servidor malvado y cruel de los señores de la Oscuridad. Hace muchos siglos sus antepasados fueron utilizados por los señores de la Oscuridad para que les construyeran la ciudad infernal de Helgedad, situada en las tierras volcánicas y desérticas del otro lado de la cordillera Durncrag. La construcción de la ciudad fue una larga y torturante pesadilla y sólo los más fuertes de los giaks sobrevivieron a la atmósfera calurosa y venenosa de Helgedad. La criatura que yace ante ti es un descendiente de aquellos esclavos giaks. Le ha matado un golpe de espada que le ha abierto la cabeza. A su lado reposa una Maza. Si lo deseas, puedes tomar ese arma.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">Continúa por el escondido sendero <link-text>pasando al número 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tus sentidos te indican que no estás solo. Corres un gran peligro. Vuelve a la superficie lo más rápidamente que puedas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Pasa al número 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Una lluvia de flechas golpea el agua encima de ti, pero se hunden sin causarte ningún daño mientras te diriges buceando hacia la orilla opuesta.</p>
- <p>Rápidamente sales del río y corres a refugiarte entre los árboles, lejos del alcance de los giaks, que vuelven a montar en los lobos fatídicos para proseguir la persecución.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Pasa al número 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando la balsa se encuentra en medio del lago, el hombre deja de remar y se pone de pie. Se ríe amenazadoramente y se quita la capucha mostrándote el rostro. Es un drakkar y debes luchar con él.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Se ríe amenazadoramente y se quita la capucha<br />mostrándote el rostro. Es un drakkar y debes luchar<br />con él</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="677" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="677" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect197">Si le vences, <link-text>pasa al número 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El mercader parece furioso y llama a su guardaespaldas. Debes pensar algo rápidamente.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">Si decides ofrecerle algo de más valor de entre los objetos que llevas en la mochila, <link-text>pasa al número 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">Si te dispones a combatir contra el guardaespaldas, <link-text>pasa al 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llegas al pie de la colina y corres a internarte en el bosque. Al cabo de unos pocos minutos descubres un antiguo sendero forestal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">Si deseas seguirlo en dirección hacia el norte, <link-text>pasa al número 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">Si decides dirigirte hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bajas unas escaleras de piedra que conducen a una gran cámara. Te espera un espectáculo macabro. En la pared opuesta hay una puerta, rematada por un arco, que da acceso a un oscuro corredor. La extraña luz verdosa procede de dos filas de calaveras que reposan sobre columnas de piedra. Están situadas unas frente a otras formando un horripilante pasillo a través de la cámara.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">Si deseas cruzar la cámara para dirigirte hacia la puerta arqueada, <link-text>pasa al número 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">Si decides atacar a las calaveras, <link-text>pasa al 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Saltando desde lo alto del tronco, te plantas delante de los dos peludos animalitos. Reconoces que son kakarmi, una inteligente raza de animales que habitan y cuidan los bosques de Sommerlund. Antes de que puedas pedirles disculpas por tu brusca aparición , los aterrorizados kakarmi se escabullen a la carrera desapareciendo en la espesura.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small25.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small25.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect186">Si deseas seguirlos, <link-text>pasa al número 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">Si prefieres continuar tu camino, <link-text>pasa al número 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tienes suerte, pues no parecen haberte descubierto. Lentamente pasan de largo y pronto desaparecen por el otro extremo de la sierra. Tú reemprendes la carrera.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Pasa al número 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el centro del pequeño claro ves a un grupo de personas que hablan con gran excitación y haciendo exagerados gestos con las manos. Son dos niños, tres hombres y una mujer. Llevan al hombro unos fardos en los que han envuelto sus posesiones. Sus ropas parecen de buena hechura y caras, pero están desgarradas y llenas de polvo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">Si deseas acercarte a ellos y preguntarles quiénes son, <link-text>pasa al número 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">Si prefieres evitar el encuentro y seguir adelante con tu misión, <link-text>pasa al número 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los lobos fatídicos se abalanzan sobre ti y debes luchar contra ellos de uno en uno.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="291" src="253.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Lobo fatídico 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Lobo fatídico 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Lobo fatídico 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Lobo fatídico 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect278">Si los matas a todos en la pelea, <link-text>pasa al número 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La habilidad de Rastreo te revela que varios rastros arrancan del sendero de la derecha en dirección hacia el de la izquierda. Las huellas pertenecen a lobos fatídicos. Los señores de la Oscuridad utilizan a semejantes bestias como exploradores de sus ejércitos. Son criaturas malvadas y a menudo montan en ellas giaks. El sendero de la izquierda conduce hacia Holmgard y el de la derecha hacia las montañas de Durncrag. Puedes elegir la ruta que quieras.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">Si deseas torcer a la izquierda, <link-text>pasa al número 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">Si quieres girar a la derecha, <link-text>pasa al 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La criatura que tienes enfrente de ti es un gourgaz, un reptil de sangre fría que habita en las profundidades de las traidoras marismas de Maakenmire. Su alimento preferido es la carne humana.</p>
- <p>La Espada del Príncipe yace a tus pies. Puedes tomar y utilizar este arma si quieres. El gourgaz se dispone a atacarte y debes librar contra él una lucha a muerte.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gourgaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Esta criatura es inmune al Ataque psíquico.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te despiertan los graznidos de unos kraans que vuelan muy alto encima de ti en el claro cielo de la mañana. Te restregas los ojos y miras hacia arriba a través de las ramas de los árboles. Divisas a tres de esas asquerosas bestias que pasan volando hacia el norte.</p>
- <p>Estás seguro de que no te han visto, pero por si vuelven es mejor que emprendas ahora mismo la marcha. Montas a caballo y cabalgas hacia el sur por el camino real.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Pasa al número 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En la pared de la derecha descubres una puerta de piedra, pero no parece haber medio alguno de abrirla.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">Si deseas examinar la estatua, <link-text>pasa al número 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">Si quieres sentarte en el trono, <link-text>pasa al número 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Utilizando la disciplina de Poder mental sobre la materia, desatas las cuerdas que te sujetan las manos. Esperas a tener una oportunidad para escapar y correr a refugiarte lo más rápidamente que puedas en la densa maleza. Negras flechas te pasan silbando, pero ya estás muy adentro del bosque y de nuevo a salvo. Has perdido la mochila y las armas, pero sigues con vida e ileso. Continúas avanzando a través de la espesura.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Pasa al número 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En aquel recinto el frío es cada vez más intenso. En el aire percibes un creciente olor a sulfuro. Oyes un sonsonete a lo lejos. Suena como si procediera de algún sitio en otra parte de la cueva. En la pared de piedra se abre una hendidura por la que aparece el extremo de una negra vara. De súbito la vara dispara un rayo azul relampagueante y te hiere en el pecho.</p>
- <p>Sientes que la vida se te escapa poco a poco y lo último que ves es la figura de un anciano con negras vestiduras que levanta una daga sobre tu cuello.</p>
- <choice>Tu vida y tu misión acaban aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mientras nadas hacia la orilla, ves al guardabosques despatarrado al borde del agua. Te acercas a él, pero compruebas que en la caída se ha roto el cuello y está muerto.</p>
- <p>De repente dos giaks saltan sobre ti desde lo alto de la orilla y debes combatir contra ellos. Estás desarmado y tienes que luchar con las manos desnudas. Resta 4 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> y pelea contra ellos de uno en uno.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect156">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sudando y sin aliento apartas la densa maleza y ves a un kraan que vuela sobre el carro. Tres crueles giaks saltan del lomo de la bestia espantando a los caballos y avanzan con sus lanzas enhiestas contra los desvalidos niños.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">Si deseas volver corriendo al carro y defender a los niños, <link-text>pasa al número 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">Si prefieres adentrarte en el bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El mercader toma el oro que le ofreces y da un chasquido con los dedos. Entonces su guardaespaldas te ataca con la cimitarra.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">Si quieres luchar, <link-text>pasa al número 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">Si eliges eludir el combate, salta del carruaje en marcha y <link-text>pasa al número 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con gran precaución sigues la corriente, que se dirige hacia el este. De pronto divisas a lo lejos algo que te hace detener.</p>
- <p>En medio del agua turbulenta, como una gran presa negra, yace un kraan muerto. Te acercas a rastras, escondido entre el follaje, y ves tres flechas profundamente clavadas en el pecho de la bestia. Atrapado bajo el peso del kraan está el cuerpo de su jinete. Se trata de un giak, un malvado servidor de los señores de la Oscuridad. Hace muchos siglos sus antepasados fueron empleados por los señores de la Oscuridad para que les construyeran la ciudad infernal de Helgedad, en la región volcánica y desértica situada al otro lado de la cordillera Durncrag. La construcción de la ciudad fue una larga y torturante pesadilla, y sólo los más fuertes de los giaks sobrevivieron a la atmósfera calurosa y venenosa de Helgedad. Esta criatura es un descendiente de aquellos esclavos giaks. Debe de haber muerto ahogado. La bolsa del giak contiene 3 Coronas de oro (Puedes quedarte con ellas si quieres).</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="263.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small26.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small26.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect70">Puedes continuar corriente abajo, <link-text>pasando al número 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">O puedes apartarte de la corriente y seguir tu camino a pie a través de las arboledas de las colinas hacia el sur <link-text>pasando al número 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No te has alejado mucho cuando oyes el fragor de una batalla hacia el oeste.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">Si deseas dirigirte al lugar de donde proviene el ruido, <link-text>pasa al número 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">Si prefieres continuar hacia el sur, <link-text>pasa al 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rápidamente te internas en el bosque antes de que aparezcan más lobos fatídicos o kraans.</p>
- <p>Después de caminar por espacio de más de una hora, llegas a lo alto de una rocosa colina. La vista que desde allí contemplan tus ojos te llena de esperanza. Pero aún debes afrontar un reto desalentador.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Pasa al número 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La bestia se retuerce en los estertores de la agonía sobre el suelo de piedra negra. Entonces la puerta de la pared de la derecha se abre con un chasquido metálico y deja al descubierto un corredor. Te escabulles a toda prisa por esa puerta secreta y un instante después se cierra de golpe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Pasa al número 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tapándote la nariz con la capa te aproximas cautelosamente a la bestia muerta. El olor acre y fétido de su negra sangre te revuelve el estómago, pero estás decidido a seguir adelante. Entonces reparas en una gran bolsa atada a su pecho. Al abrir la bolsa, encuentras en ella un Mensaje escrito en una piel de animal.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="267.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Al abrir la bolsa, encuentras en ella un Mensaje<br />escrito en una piel de animal</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="644" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="644" />
- <instance class="text">
- <blockquote>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Orgadak shada taag okak<ch.emdash/>orgadak ok<ch.emdash/>nara ek ash jek eg Helgedad.</quote></foreign></p>
- </blockquote>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>En el fondo de la bolsa hallas también una Daga. Puedes quedarte, si lo deseas, con ambas cosas: el Mensaje y la Daga.</p>
- <p>Te alejas del cadáver y continúas andando por el sendero hacia el este.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Pasa al número 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Durante unos pocos minutos has permanecido inconsciente, pero en seguida vuelves en ti haciendo un supremo esfuerzo. Con precaución y agradecido por seguir con vida, te apoyas en los hombros de los soldados del Rey y caminas vacilante hacia las defensas exteriores de la ciudad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Pasa al número 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El loco yace muerto a tus pies. Aparecen en la puerta dos soldados, que inmediatamente te felicitan. Te dicen que el lunático se había escapado y que ellos llevaban dos días buscándole. Uno de los soldados te entrega una recompensa de 10 Coronas de oro y se ofrece a escoltarte hasta la ciudadela.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">Si aceptas su ofrecimiento, <link-text>pasa al número 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">Si prefieres confiar en tu propio sentido de la orientación, <link-text>pasa al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Oyes los gritos furiosos del enemigo procedentes del otro lado del lago. Debes partir de allí antes de que aparezcan más kraans. Montas en tu corcel y cabalgas hacia el interior del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Pasa al número 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te sientes muy débil. El veneno de la víbora ha penetrado en tu sangre y los músculos se te tensan o aflojan involuntariamente. De repente las piernas se te doblan y te hundes en el agua fangosa casi hasta la cabeza.</p>
- <p>Tu vida acaba aquí.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dirigiendo vigilantes miradas hacia lo alto del cielo, avanzas raudamente por el camino. Recuerdas que esa ruta conduce a Fogwood, un pequeño grupo de cabañas que han sido habitadas por una familia de carboneros durante cerca de cincuenta años. Al cabo de veinte minutos llegas al borde de un claro donde se agrupan las cabañas formando un pequeño círculo. No hay ni rastro de la habitual mezcla de niebla y humo a la que debe su apropiado nombre Fogwood (Bosque Brumoso) y las cabañas están desacostumbradamente silenciosas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">Si posees la disciplina de Rastreo, puedes <link-text>pasar al número 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">Si no posees esa habilidad, prepara tu arma y acércate con precaución a las cabañas. <link-text>Pasa al número 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahora se divisan las fortificaciones exteriores de la ciudad. Alineadas a través del río, una hilera de barcazas amarradas una a otra forman una barricada flotante. También ves soldados que corren a lo largo de las empalizadas y oyes el ruido de una batalla, un ruido casi imperceptible, que parece provenir del oeste.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small27.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small27.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect179">Si deseas aproximarte a las barcazas, <link-text>pasa al número 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">Si quieres refugiarte entre los árboles, <link-text>pasa al 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En tu precipitación por huir del enemigo tropiezas con la raíz de un árbol y caes patas arriba levantando un remolino de polvo y hojas. En seguida te pones de pie y, atravesando la maleza que cubre la base de la colina, corres hacia el interior del bosque. Al cabo de casi veinte minutos de carrera descubres que has perdido el arma (o armas). Pero al menos conservas la vida y la mochila. Limpiándote la mugre de la cara continúas adelante entre los árboles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Pasa al número 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Has seguido el serpenteante sendero durante unos veinte minutos cuando oyes un batir de alas por encima de los árboles. Miras hacia arriba y ves a un enorme kraan que se aproxima desde el norte, proyectando con sus alas negras una gigantesca sombra sobre los árboles.</p>
- <p>Montadas en él van dos criaturas armadas con largas lanzas. Son giaks de las montañas, feos y pequeños seres llenos de odio y maldad. Hace muchos siglos, sus antepasados fueron empleados por los señores de la Oscuridad en la construcción de la ciudad infernal de Helgedad, situada en los desiertos volcánicos que hay al otro lado de la cordillera Durncrag. La construcción de la ciudad fue una larga tortura y sólo los más fuertes de los giaks sobrevivieron a la atmósfera asfixiante y venenosa de Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Rápidamente te lanzas en plancha buscando el amparo de un gran árbol cuando el kraan pasa volando sobre tu cabeza. El corazón te late con violencia y das gracias a tus rápidos reflejos que te han salvado de ser descubierto.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">Si el número que te depara la suerte está entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">Si está entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Agarras el hacha y consigues abrirte camino cortando ramas de la enmarañada maleza hasta que sales a una zona donde el bosque se aclara. Tu capa está desgarrada por varios sitios y te has magullado la pierna derecha encima de la rodilla.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="281" width="326" src="276.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213">Pierdes 1 punto de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y <link-text>pasas al número 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al despertar te encuentras tendido en el suelo, al pie de una escarpada pendiente, en medio de una maraña de altas hierbas. Echas en falta la mochila y el arma y te duele la cabeza. No sabes cuánto tiempo has permanecido inconsciente, pero en cualquier caso comprendes que debes continuar tu misión sin más tardanza.</p>
- <p>Te pones de pie y descubres la mochila, que está intacta. En cambio el arma se ha partido en dos y es, por tanto, inservible. Acuérdate de tacharla en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>. (Si tienes más de un arma, sólo una de ellas se ha roto y puedes elegir cuál.) Recoges rápidamente la mochila y partes hacia el bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Pasa al número 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Abandonas con presteza el sendero y emprendes el galope por el camino que conduce a la capital. Al llegar al punto donde los lobos fatídicos se pararon, divisas más allá de un prado la calzada principal que une el puerto nórdico de Toran con Holmgard. Deberías alcanzar la capital al día siguiente por la mañana.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Pasa al número 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Subes gateando por las rocas movedizas y entras en la cueva. Inmediatamente empujas una gran piedra para tapar la entrada.</p>
- <p>Al cabo de unos pocos minutos ves a los giaks que han llegado al rocoso repecho ante la boca de la cueva. Con sus malignos ojos amarillentos buscan cualquier grieta que pueda haber en la ladera de la colina. Están tan cerca que tienes la certeza de que te descubrirán en cualquier momento.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">Si el número que te toca en suerte está entre el 0 y el 6, <link-text>pasa al 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">Si está entre el 7 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al comenzar tu escalada oyes un batir de alas que se acerca por el oeste. ¡Son kraans! Por el ruido que hacen calculas que deben de ser por lo menos diez, quizá más. Maldices tu mala suerte, pues la ladera de la colina no te ofrece ningún refugio si te atacan desde el aire. Durante ese difícil ascenso te será casi imposible rechazar un ataque y al mismo tiempo permanecer en pie.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">Si decides empuñar tu arma y quedarte completamente inmóvil, en la esperanza de que los kraans no te descubran, <link-text>pasa al número 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">Si prefieres bajar a toda prisa por la ladera y ponerte a resguardo en el túnel, <link-text>pasa al 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mientras corres entre los árboles oyes el horrible cacareo de los giaks que te pisan los talones. Pronto los árboles comienzan a estar más espaciados y enfrente de ti ves una colina rocosa.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">Si sales a campo raso para subir a la colina, <link-text>pasa al número 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">Si cambias de dirección y continúas corriendo a través del bosque, <link-text>pasa al número 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mirando por encima de las cabezas del gentío descubres que uno de los establecimientos que hay frente a la puerta principal es el consultorio de un médico. De repente se te ocurre un atrevido plan. Abriéndote paso a codazos entre la multitud, logras llegar al otro lado de la calle. Entras en el consultorio, pero dentro no hay señales de vida, aparte de un loro de brillantes colores encerrado en una jaula junto a la ventana.</p>
- <p>Te pones una bata blanca de médico y eliges unos cuantos frascos. Después vuelves con gran trabajo ante la puerta principal.</p>
- <p>-¡Es una urgencia! -gritas tratando de engañar a los guardias que te dan el alto y preguntan qué quieres -. La mujer del cocinero real<ch.ellips/> va a tener un hijo.</p>
- <p>Los guardias dudan un momento, pero tú les aseguras que se trata de un caso muy urgente y te dejan entrar. Uno de los portones se abre medio metro y un guardia te empuja bruscamente a través de la estrecha abertura y te introduce en el patio interior.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Pasa al número 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te encuentras a escasa distancia del extraño encapuchado cuando el cuervo grazna avisando a su dueño, quien inmediatamente gira en redondo. Se te hiela la sangre en las venas al contemplar el horrible rostro de un vordak, un lugarteniente de los señores de la Oscuridad y uno de los inmortales. Debes luchar contra él.</p>
- <p>Debido a la sorpresa de tu ataque, puedes sumar 2 puntos a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> sólo para el primer asalto.</p>
- <p>Para el segundo asalto y los siguientes resta 2 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>, a menos que poseas la disciplina de Defensa psíquica, pues el vordak te ataca con el poder de su fuerza mental, así como con una gran maza negra.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect123">Si le vences, <link-text>pasa al número 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Atravesar el cementerio no va a ser fácil, pues el terreno es desigual y está cubierto de zarzas espinosas. Estas zarzas malignas te desgarran la capa y te producen cortaduras en las piernas. El aire es sofocante y no corre ni una brisa. De las criptas abiertas emanan gases fétidos y los oídos te zumban debido al persistente ruido de un murmullo lejano.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Atravesar el cementerio no va a ser fácil, pues el<br />terreno es desigual y está cubierto de zarzas espinosas</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="683" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="683" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Con gran precaución te acercas a una abertura entre dos antiguos pilares y apartas las zarzas con la mano envuelta en la capa. De pronto el suelo se hunde bajo tus pies y caes arrastrado por un derrumbamiento de tierra y piedras.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Pasa al número 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con un golpe sordo el bloque de mármol se estrella contra la espalda del giak abriéndosela por el medio. El soldado cae lentamente de rodillas y luego queda postrado sobre las ruinas del suelo. Contento de tu habilidad, corres a ayudar al joven hechicero.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Pasa al número 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mensajeros de la muerte, y ávidos de transmitir sus noticias, los lobos fatídicos te rodean y atacan. Tú combates con gran valentía, pero es inútil, pues son demasiados contra ti.</p>
- <p>Sientes que la vida se te escapa con la sangre que derramas y una eterna oscuridad empieza a envolverte. La última imagen que recuerdas es el resplandor de la luz del sol sobre las torres de Holmgard.</p>
- <p>Has fracasado en tu misión.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sendero desaparece pronto por completo en una maraña de espinos y abetos de bajas ramas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">Si decides volver a la bifurcación y dirigirte hacia el este, <link-text>pasa al número 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">Si decides abrirte camino poco a poco a golpe de hacha a través de la maleza en la dirección que llevas, <link-text>pasa al número 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al llegar a las empalizadas de las fortificaciones, la gran puerta de roble se abre y entras rápidamente. Un sargento, manchado de sangre y fatigado por la batalla, llama a un oficial, que se acerca a ti y reconoce tu capa.</p>
- <p>-Señor ,¿ Dónde están los demás miembros del Kai? Necesitamos desesperadamente vuestra sabiduría. Los señores de la Oscuridad nos acosan con sus crueles acometidas y hemos sufrido muchas bajas.</p>
- <p>Informas al bravo oficial del terrible final de tus compañeros y de la urgente misión que tienes que cumplir avisando al Consejo regio. Sin decir palabra, el oficial ordena a un soldado que traiga dos caballos. Montáis en ellos y partís al galope hacia las altas murallas de Holmgard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Pasa al número 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los dos guardias parecen cansados e inquietos. Sostienen nerviosamente las alabardas en posición horizontal utilizándolas para apartar a quienes se acercan demasiado a la puerta. Una mujer furiosa ataca a uno de ellos, golpeándole el pecho con los puños cerrados y haciéndole caer contra el otro guardia. Los tres se derrumban en un amasijo de brazos y piernas debatiéndose con esfuerzo. Viendo en esa caída tu oportunidad, te abalanzas sobre la palanca que abre los portones y tiras de ella.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="289.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Te deslizas en el interior y la puerta se cierra tras de ti sin que los guardias te hayan visto entrar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Pasa al número 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dentro de una larga caja hay una Vara envuelta en piel. Puedes tomar ese arma si quieres. Cierras la caja y desciendes por la escala al claro, procurando pisar sólo en los escalones intactos.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small29.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small29.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Pasa al número 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los dos giaks yacen a tus pies, con los cuerpos retorcidos y sin vida. Una rápida búsqueda te permite descubrir 6 Coronas de oro, 2 Lanzas y 1 Daga.</p>
- <p>Puedes quedarte con las Coronas y la Daga o una de las Lanzas. Acuérdate de anotarlos en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>El kraan se fue volando durante el combate y el camino está ahora despejado. Te ajustas la mochila y continúas tu misión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Pasa al número 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lo último que experimentas en esta vida es la sensación de ser tragado por el vacío de las tinieblas. En este mundo no queda de ti nada, pues has pasado al reino de la existencia sin tiempo. Te has convertido en esclavo de un antiguo mal.</p>
- <p>Tu aventura termina aquí.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon te dice adiós agitando la mano y se aleja de las ruinas. Tú prosigues tu misión y continúas caminando a través de espesos bosques. No has avanzado mucho cuando adviertes que varios pares de ojos amarillentos te vigilan desde la maleza, a tu izquierda. De repente una negra flecha pasa rozándote la cabeza. Es una emboscada de giaks y debes salir corriendo lo más velozmente que puedas para escapar de ella.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Pasa al número 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Permaneces sumergido bajo el agua el mayor tiempo que te es posible. Finalmente subes a la superficie y ves a los giaks a lo lejos. Has perdido el arma (o las armas) y la mochila, pero al menos estás aún vivo.</p>
- <p>Sales del agua fangosa y sigues tu viaje bajo el amparo de los árboles que se alinean en la orilla derecha.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">Si el número está entre el 0 y el 2, <link-text>pasa al número 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">Si está entre el 3 y el 6, <link-text>pasa al 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">Si está entre el 7 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de caminar durante unos quince minutos, de repente una flecha negra pasa silbando junto a tu cabeza y va a clavarse en un árbol. Instintivamente te agachas y empuñas tu arma.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">Si deseas permanecer donde estás para tratar de descubrir al arquero oculto, <link-text>pasa al número 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">Si quieres correr a refugiarte en la maleza más densa, <link-text>pasa al 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Presientes que allí se esconde algún enigma. Librándose batallas por todas partes y estando las fuerzas de los señores de la Oscuridad tan cerca, ¿cómo es que ese hombre se ha quedado en el bosque?</p>
- <p>Percibes una extraña aura de maldad alrededor de él y declinas su ofrecimiento.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Pasa al número 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Utilizando las destrezas que te enseñaron tus maestros en el arte de la Caza, avanzas sin ser descubierto a través del follaje. En menos de un minuto te hallas justamente detrás de la estaca a la que está atado el guardabosques y a escasa distancia de ella. Las ramas apiladas a sus pies están ardiendo y una nube de humo envuelve a la pobre víctima. Empuñas el hacha y corres hacia él, oculto por el humo. No necesitas más que un hachazo para cortar sus ataduras y liberarle. Después le arrastras hacia el interior del bosque. Al internarte por él oyes los gritos de los giaks que descubren que su prisionero ha desaparecido literalmente en una nube de humo.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="610" width="386" src="297.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Pasa al número 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El ave vuelve despacio la cabeza y te maldice. Un instante más tarde echa a volar por encima de los árboles y pronto desaparece. Sobresaltado por lo que acabas de oír, estás ahora seguro de que el pajarraco era un explorador de los señores de la Oscuridad y probablemente va a informarles de tu paradero.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small30.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small30.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect121">Si deseas continuar tu marcha por el camino, <link-text>pasa al número 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">Si decides dejar el camino y seguir a través del bosque, <link-text>pasa al 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pronto te das cuenta de que estás penetrando en un bosque pantanoso. Continuar en esa dirección sería peligroso y apenas avanzarías.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">Si deseas seguir adelante, <link-text>pasa al número 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">Si prefieres cambiar de dirección y encaminarte hacia terreno más firme, <link-text>pasa al número 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Llevas andando más de una hora y durante todo ese tiempo te has mantenido vigilante por si descubrías alguna señal de kraans en el cielo. Dos veces has divisado en lo alto sombras sospechosas y en ambas ocasiones tus rápidos reflejos te han salvado de ser capturado. Ahora estás hambriento y debes tomar una comida.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">Después puedes proseguir tu viaje <link-text>pasando al número 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu disciplina del Kai te revela que el sendero del oeste muere un poco más allá.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">Así pues, eliges el sendero del sur y <link-text>pasas al número 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">Si el número que has sacado está entre el 0 y el 2, <link-text>pasa al 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">Si está entre el 3 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El bosque en esa zona se aclara y se hace más montuoso. Apenas te oculta en caso de ser atacado desde el aire. Por eso corres de árbol en árbol para evitar que los kraans te descubran. Pero a escasa distancia detrás de ti oyes aullidos de lobos fatídicos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">Si posees la disciplina de Camuflaje, <link-text>pasa al número 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">Si no, <link-text>pasa al 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect304-1-foot" idref="sect304-1">
- <p>Anota este objeto de mochila como una Gema Vordak.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>La Gema despide un calor increíble y te quema la mano. Pierdes 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
- <p>En seguida la agarras con el borde de la capa y <footref id="sect304-1" idref="sect304-1-foot">la introduces en la mochila.</footref> Una Gema de ese tamaño debe de valer cientos de Coronas. Pero los giaks están muy cerca y sus flechas pasan rozándote la cabeza, por lo que te das media vuelta y corres a refugiarte en el bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Pasa al número 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A través de la puerta abierta de la primera cabaña ves el cuerpo de un carbonero que yace boca abajo en el suelo toscamente empedrado. Le han asesinado clavándole una lanza en la espalda. Los muebles y demás utensilios de la cabaña han sido destrozados y ni un solo objeto permanece intacto.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="373" src="305.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>No hay duda de que aquello es obra de los malvados giaks, a quienes encanta destruirlo todo. Un rápido examen de las demás cabañas te revela una historia semejante de asesinato y destrucción. En la última cabaña que registras encuentras una Lanza giak, lo que confirma tus sospechas. Puedes quedarte con ese arma si lo deseas.</p>
- <p>Más decidido que nunca a llevar a feliz término tu misión, reemprendes la marcha por el camino.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Pasa al número 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>El sonido de la batalla se desvanece poco a poco detrás de ti. De repente algo te derriba al suelo. Son tres drakkarim que han saltado sobre ti desde un árbol. Forcejeas con ellos, pero es inútil, pues son demasiados contra ti, y muy fuertes.</p>
- <p>Lo último que oyes son los espantosos gruñidos de los drakkarim cuando levantan sus lanzas para ensartarte con ellas.</p>
- <choice>Tu vida y tu misión terminan aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te resulta fácil trepar a ese árbol. Te recuerda los muchos árboles a los que trepabas y explorabas de niño en las cercanías de Toran cuando querías arrancar fruta o contemplar desde lo alto el bello paisaje de Sommerlund.</p>
- <p>Empujas la puerta de la casita y la abres. En un rincón de la pequeña cabaña está acurrucado un viejo ermitaño. En su rostro descubres un gesto de gran alivio cuando reconoce tu verde capa del Kai. Te dice que toda aquella zona está infestada de giaks y que ha podido contar más de cuarenta kraans que han pasado volando sobre su cabaña en las últimas tres horas. Se dirigían hacia el este.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Empujas la puerta de la casita y la abres. En un<br /> rincón de la pequeña cabaña está acurrucado un viejo<br />ermitaño</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="672" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="672" />
- </illustration>
- <p>El anciano se acerca a un aparador y vuelve con una bandeja llena de fruta fresca. Le das las gracias y guardas la fruta en tu mochila. Hay suficiente para una comida. El ermitaño saca también un magnífico Martillo de guerra y lo coloca sobre la mesa que hay junto a la puerta.</p>
- <p>-A ti te hace más falta que a mí<ch.emdash/>dice-. Por favor, toma este fiel Martillo de guerra.</p>
- <p>Puedes quedarte con el arma, pero sólo si la cambias por otra de las que tú tengas, pues es el único medio con que cuenta el ermitaño para defenderse del enemigo.</p>
- <p>De nuevo das las gracias al anciano y bajas con cuidado del árbol para proseguir tu misión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Pasa al número 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La puerta del establo está abierta y oyes la respiración de un caballo que se encuentra en el oscuro interior. De repente el caballo nota tu presencia y sale corriendo como una exhalación, empujándote al suelo. Pierdes 1 punto de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">Si quieres utilizar la disciplina de Afinidad animal, <link-text>pasa al número 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">Si deseas ir en busca del caballo huido, <link-text>pasa al 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No has dado ni diez pasos cuando el cuervo lanza un graznido que pone en guardia al extraño encapuchado. Este se da la vuelta y profiere un grito penetrante que te hiela la sangre y te atenaza el estómago. Es un vordak, un lugarteniente de los señores de la Oscuridad, uno de los inmortales. Al instante una patrulla de giaks aparece a su lado y te ataca. Combates valientemente, pero la desigualdad de fuerzas es muy grande.</p>
- <p>Lo último que recuerdas es la presión glacíal de los dedos esqueléticos del vordak al cerrarse alrededor de tu cuello.</p>
- <choice>Tu vida y tu misión terminan aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Descubres un pequeño letrero, casi borrado, en la pared de un edificio de enfrente.</p>
- <p>Recuerdas que las sesiones de la Corte regia se celebran dentro de la ciudadela y estás seguro de que la calle de la izquierda conduce hacia allí.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small31.gif" width="386" height="102" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small31.pdf" width="386" height="102" />
- <instance class="text">
- <signpost>Corte Regia<ch.emdash/>1 Milla</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Pasa al número 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La ladera de la colina es abrupta y la tierra movediza y resbaladiza. Miras de soslayo sobre tu hombro y ves a dos giaks que salen del bosque y empiezan a ascender en tu persecución. Cuando te encuentras a mitad de camino de la cima, descubres a tu derecha una cueva, casi completamente oculta por un corrimiento de tierras.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">Si posees la disciplina de Camuflaje, <link-text>pasa al número 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">Si deseas esconderte en la cueva, <link-text>pasa al número 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">Si decides evitar la cueva y seguir subiendo por la ladera hasta la cumbre, <link-text>pasa al número 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Maldices tu mala suerte. Parece que la naturaleza y los señores de la Oscuridad se han puesto de acuerdo contra ti, pero ello no hace vacilar tu determinación de llegar hasta el Rey.</p>
- <p>Te limpias el barro viscoso de la ropa, te das media vuelta y sigues hacia el interior del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299"><link-text>Pasa al número 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Limpias tu arma quitándole la fétida sangre del giak y desciendes rápidamente por la ladera de la colina antes de que el kraan descubra a sus jinetes muertos. A menudo resbalas en las rocas movedizas y ruedas por el suelo.</p>
- <p>Resta 1 punto de tu <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> por las cortaduras y arañazos que te has hecho en las piernas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Pasa al número 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tardas casi una hora en alcanzar la ciudadela. Cuando llegas allí descubres que los ciudadanos de Holmgard son víctimas del pánico y de la confusión. Tu acompañante se acerca a los guardias revestidos de armaduras que están apostados ante la entrada principal y les informa de que traes un mensaje urgente para el Rey.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">Si te sale un número entre el 0 y el 6, <link-text>pasa al 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">Si el número está entre el 7 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al número 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el envoltorio de ropas de mujer hay un pequeño bolso de terciopelo que contiene 6 Coronas de oro y una Pastilla de jabón perfumado. Puedes quedarte con estos objetos y proseguir tu viaje.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small32.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small32.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Pasa al número 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En tu precipitación por escapar del enemigo tropiezas con la raíz de un árbol y caes de cabeza levantando una nube de polvo y hojas. Empuñando el arma atraviesas la maleza que cubre el pie de la colina y corres a internarte en el espeso bosque. El kraan ha dejado de volar sobre ti, pero si te das la vuelta puedes ver las siluetas de los dos giaks en la cumbre de la colina.</p>
- <p>Limpiándote la suciedad de los ojos, te estremeces al darte cuenta de que te has hecho una gran magulladura en la frente. Sin más tardar te refugias a todo correr en el interior del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Pasa al número 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instintivamente saltas de las escaleras y aterrizas en el suelo empedrado. Tu rápida reacción te ha salvado la vida, pues un enorme bloque de granito ha caído del techo y aplastado las escaleras delante mismo de la cerradura.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="287" width="372" src="317.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Aturdido, pero ileso, te pones en pie. Desde arriba, por el agujero que ha dejado el bloque de granito, se filtra en la cámara un rayo de luz grisácea y mortecina. A través de ese agujero del techo ves una maraña de hierbajos y el cielo nuboso. Trepas hasta la abertura y sales de la tumba. Después te diriges lo más deprisa posible hacia la puerta sur de la necrópolis. Divisas entonces las empalizadas de las fortificaciones exteriores de la ciudad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Pasa al número 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dos soldados y un sargento van corriendo hacia ti con las ballestas apuntándote a la cabeza. Cuando están más cerca reconocen tu capa del Kai y un gesto de alivio aparece en sus rostros.</p>
- <p>-Señor -dice el sargento-, ¿dónde están los otros miembros del Kai? Necesitamos de- sesperadamente vuestra sabiduría. Los señores de la Oscuridad nos acosan con sus crueles ataques y hemos tenido muchas bajas.</p>
- <p>Informas al valiente soldado del aciago final de tus compañeros y de la urgente misión que te lleva a ver al Rey. Te conduce hasta las barcazas y allí un oficial y tú montáis a caballo y os dirigís hacia las elevadas murallas y hacia la puerta principal de Holmgard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Pasa al número 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La viscosa criatura lanza un prolongado y horrible alarido y cae muerta. Estás a punto de dejarte vencer por el pánico. A gatas te acercas al cadáver de la bestia y le arrancas de las mandíbulas lo que crees que es tu cinturón. A lo lejos ves luz y corres hacia allí lo más velozmente que te es posible. Cuando por fin sales al aire libre te desplomas en el suelo cubierto de hojas y jadeando tratas de recuperar el aliento.</p>
- <p>Poco a poco te incorporas y compruebas que sigues llevando puesto el cinturón: después de todo no lo habías perdido. Lo que has arrancado de las fauces del alacrán zapador es una correa de cuero con una pequeña bolsa y una Daga en su funda colgando del medio de la correa. Rompes la hebilla y encuentras en su interior 20 Coronas de oro. Puedes quedarte con la Daga y con las Coronas de oro si eres capaz de hacerlo.</p>
- <p>Sintiéndote un poco mejor, recoges tu equipo y sigues hacia el este a través del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Pasa al número 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mientras corres a campo abierto hacia el bosque, un kraan se lanza en picado sobre ti y te clava las garras en un brazo. Antes de que puedas contraatacar, la bestia escapa volando y graznando con fría malicia.</p>
- <p>Te adentras en el bosque, pero has perdido 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Pasa al número 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caminas durante casi una hora por la orilla del serpenteante río. Más allá del siguiente meandro se oye débilmente un ruido de batalla. Con mucha precaución subes a una escarpada colina para tener una mejor vista de la zona.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Pasa al número 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Después de una penosa escalada que se te antoja durar una eternidad, alcanzas la cumbre de la abrupta colina. A tu espalda, por encima de las copas de los árboles, pueden verse las ruinas aún humeantes del monasterio. Al norte se eleva hacia lo alto una columna de negro humo. Pequeñas llamas anaranjadas ondean bajo ese humo. Una profunda pena se adueña de ti cuando compruebas que lo que está ardiendo es el puerto de Toran.</p>
- <p>De repente, un grito agudo encima de ti te avisa de que un kraan se dispone a atacarte. Se encuentra a escasa distancia y se lanza en picado para matarte.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">Si quieres permanecer donde estás y pelear contra él cuando se halle a tu alcance, <link-text>pasa al número 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">Si deseas eludir su ataque y escapar bajando por el otro lado de la colina, <link-text>pasa al número 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desde lo alto de la atalaya puedes otear sobre los árboles en todas las direcciones. Al norte, muy lejos, una columna de negro humo se eleva hacia el cielo. Pequeñas llamas de color anaranjado ondean debajo. Sientes una profunda tristeza al comprobar que lo que está ardiendo es el puerto de Toran. Del sudoeste el viento trae hasta tus oídos el rumor de una batalla. No tiene lugar a mucha distancia, a lo sumo a unas cinco millas de allí.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="323.gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small33.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small33.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>En el suelo de la atalaya hay una caja alargada.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">Si deseas abrir la caja, <link-text>pasa al número 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">Si prefieres descender por la escala, con cuidado de pisar sólo en los escalones intactos, y alejarte de la atalaya, <link-text>pasa al número 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te pones la capucha y te agachas para esconderte detrás de las rocas que obstruyen la boca de la cueva. Conteniendo la respiración te acurrucas haciéndote una bola y te cubres por completo con la verde capa. Unos pocos minutos más tarde los giaks llegan al saliente rocoso delante de la cueva. Con sus malignos ojos amarillentos buscan cualquier grieta que pueda haber en la ladera de la colina.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Después, maldiciendo en su extraña lengua, se alejan del saliente y siguen ascendiendo hacia la cumbre de la colina. En silencio agradeces a tus viejos maestros del Kai el haberte enseñado la disciplina de Camuflaje que probablemente te ha salvado la vida en esta ocasión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">Si deseas explorar la cueva, <link-text>pasa al número 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">Si prefieres salir de ella y bajar de la colina por si los giaks regresan, <link-text>pasa al número 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al verte salir del bosque, el oficial giak grita a sus tropas que huyen acobardadas de las ruinas y corren a refugiarse en el bosque:</p>
- <p>-¡Ogot! ¡Ogot!</p>
- <p>Agitando en dirección hacia ti el puño cerrado, el giak de la negra cota de malla vocifera antes de escapar él también:</p>
- <p>-¡Raneg rogag ok, orgadaka okak rogag gaj!</p>
- <p>En el escenario de la batalla cuentas más de quince cadáveres giaks que yacen entre las derruidas columnas de Raumas.</p>
- <p>El joven hechicero se enjuga la frente y va a tu encuentro tendiéndote la mano en señal de amistad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Pasa al número 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Con mucho cuidado introduces la Llave y le das la vuelta en el sentido de las agujas del reloj. Oyes un ligero sonido metálico : la Llave funciona. Levantas el afiler y la gran puerta de granito gira lentamente hacia ti sobre ocultos goznes. La media luz grisácea del cementerio penetra en la tumba. La salida está cubierta de zarzas y te haces muchos cortes en la cara y en los brazos al abrirte camino penosamente hasta la superficie.</p>
- <p>Al mirar atrás, ves cómo la puerta de la tumba se cierra muy despacio y una risa cruel e inhumana parece surgir del suelo mismo que pisas. Invadido por un ciego pánico, corres a través de la horripilante necrópolis hacia la puerta sur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Pasa al número 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A los pocos minutos divisas a los kraans, que pasan volando sobre la cima de la colina en tu persecución. En un cálculo rápido puedes contar por lo menos dieciséis de esas horribles criaturas. A lomos de cada una de ellas van montados dos giaks. Estos están armados con largas lanzas y llevan unos cascos puntiagudos de bronce mate. Oyes los excitados gruñidos de los giaks, que te han descubierto.</p>
- <p>Saltas para alcanzar la entrada del túnel que está unos veinticinco pies más abajo, pero te enganchas las botas en un matorral espinoso y quedas colgando de él cabeza abajo, desamparado, inerme y vulnerable. Afortunadamente tu final es rápido. Cuando la primera lanza giak te atraviesa el corazón, mueres al instante.</p>
- <choice>Tu vida y tu misión acaban aquí.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al morir esa criatura, su cuerpo se disuelve poco a poco en un asqueroso líquido verde. Observas cómo la hierba y las plantas debajo del humeante fluido empiezan a marchitarse y mueren. Pero una gran Gema, al parecer muy valiosa, yace en el suelo junto al cuerpo putrefacto.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">Si deseas apoderarte de la Gema, <link-text>pasa al número 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">Si prefieres alejarte de allí lo más rápidamente posible, <link-text>pasa al 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al descender de la sierra hacia el cementerio de los antepasados percibes una extraña niebla que envuelve ese lugar tenebroso y prohibido, ocultando el sol y sumiendo el cementerio en una perpetua oscuridad.</p>
- <p>Un frío horrible te cala hasta los huesos, tu caballo se espanta y, por más que lo animas, se niega a continuar acercándose a aquel terrible lugar. Así que tienes que prescindir del caballo y seguir a pie.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Pasa al número 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fatigado por tantos esfuerzos, te paras a descansar unos pocos minutos junto a un árbol caído. Descubres un gran envoltorio bajo el tronco.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">Si deseas examinar el contenido del envoltorio, <link-text>pasa al número 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">Si prefieres dejarlo donde está y continuar tu misión, <link-text>pasa al 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rodeada de zarzas espinosas y apretadas raíces, ves la entrada de un túnel que desaparece en el interior de la ladera. La boca tiene aproximadamente siete pies de altura y algo más de diez pies de anchura. Al acercarte a ella notas una leve brisa que proviene del negro fondo. Si el otro extremo del túnel tiene salida por la ladera contraria de la colina, te ahorraría muchas horas de dificil ascenso. Pero también podría encubrir peligros desconocidos.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small34.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small34.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect170">Si deseas entrar en el túnel, <link-text>pasa al número 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">Si prefieres escalar la colina, <link-text>pasa al 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caminas durante casi diez minutos por un oscuro y tortuoso corredor. Luego subes por una empinada escalera hasta una pequeña puerta de madera. El hombre presiona un pestillo secreto y la puerta se abre. Entras en un gran dormitorio lujosamente decorado, con un enorme baño de mármol que ocupa un rincón de la habitación. El hombre te sugiere que te refresques mientras él va a solicitar para ti una audiencia con el Rey.</p>
- <p>Te das un rápido baño y te pones unas blancas vestíduras que te han preparado sobre una gran mesa de mármol. Al cabo de un rato el hombre vuelve y te conduce por un largo pasillo revestido de espléndídos tapices. Finalmente llegas ante una gran puerta custodiada por dos soldados con armaduras de plata.</p>
- <p>Estás a punto de ver al Rey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Pasa al número 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cortando ramas con el hacha te has abierto camino a través de la densa maleza durante casi media hora cuando oyes un aleteo por encima de los árboles. Miras hacia arriba y distingues la silueta de un kraan que se aproxima desde el norte. Es uno de los monstruos que han atacado el monasterio, y sobre su lomo van montadas dos criaturas de piel grisácea armadas con largas lanzas.</p>
- <p>Esas criaturas son giaks de las montañas, malvados servidores de los señores de la Oscuridad, llenos de odio y maldad. Hace muchos siglos, sus antepasados fueron empleados por los señores de la Oscuridad en la construcción de la ciudad infernal de Helgedad, situada en las tierras volcánicas y desérticas del otro lado de la cordillera Durncrag. La construcción de la ciudad fue una larga tortura y sólo los más fuertes de los giaks sobrevivieron a la calurosa y venenosa atmósfera de Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Oculto por los árboles, estás temblando y procuras quedarte completamente quieto mientras el kraan pasa volando sobre tu cabeza y desaparece hacia el sur. Cuando estás seguro de que se ha alejado, sigues avanzando a través del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Pasa al número 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cuando la corriente desaparece en la rocosa ladera de la colina, miras hacia arriba y ves en el camino a cuatro soldados y a su oficial. Llevan uniformes del ejército real.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Miras hacia arriba y ves en el camino a cuatro<br />soldados y a su oficial. Llevan uniformes del ejército<br />real</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect48">Si quieres usar la disciplina de Sexto sentido, <link-text>pasa al número 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">Si quieres utilizar la disciplina de Camuflaje y esperar a que se alejen, <link-text>pasa al 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">Si deseas acercarte a ellos, <link-text>pasa al número 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al acercarte, la negra ave echa a volar por encima de los árboles y pronto desaparece de tu vista. Exploras el árbol sobre el que estaba posada, pero no encuentras en él nada fuera de lo normal. Decides no perder más tiempo, que es para ti precioso, y emprender de nuevo la marcha por el camino.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="335.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect121"><link-text>Pasa al número 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Corres hacia el claro y sorprendes a los giaks. Sin vacilar un instante te lanzas sobre el más próximo a ti y le derribas. Antes de que su cuerpo choque en su caída contra el suelo, está muerto. Los otros giaks desenvainan sus curvas espadas y te atacan. Debes pelear contra ellos de uno en uno.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect117">Si vences, liberas al guardabosques y <link-text>pasas al número 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>En el mismo momento en que quitas el adornado alfiler, un fuerte crujido te ensordece.</p>
- <p>Elige al azar un número de la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">Si el número así obtenido está entre el 0 y el 4, <link-text>pasa al 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">Si está entre el 5 y el 9, <link-text>pasa al 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al despertar te encuentras tendido al pie de una escarpada pendiente en una maraña de altas hierbas. Echas en falta la mochila y el arma y tienes un tremendo dolor de cabeza. No sabes cuánto tiempo has estado inconsciente, pero comprendes que es hora de reanudar la marcha. Te pones en pie y descubres tu mochila y tu arma en lo alto de la pendiente. Han debido de caérsete cuando rodabas por el suelo. Las recuperas sin más tardanza y reemprendes tu camino a través del bosque.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Pasa al número 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te apartas rápidamente hacia un lado en el preciso momento en que una larga daga hace añicos el cristal que cubre el mostrador. Un joven de tez morena te ataca y debes luchar contra él.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Salteador</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect94">Si le matas en 4 asaltos, <link-text>pasa al número 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">Si después de 4 asaltos sigues combatiendo, <link-text>pasa al 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">Puedes eludir el combate escapando por la puerta delantera en cualquier momento de la pelea si <link-text>pasas al número 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Galopas al encuentro del lobo fatídico y de su jinete y enarbolas tu arma dispuesta para el ataque. El giak te ve y desenvaina su cimitarra. Debes pelear contra el giak y el lobo fatídico como si fueran un solo enemigo.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak + lobo fatídico</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect193">Si vences en esta lucha, <link-text>pasa al número 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los guardias no creen tu historia y se niegan a dejarte entrar. Tu acompañante desaparece entre la multitud y te quedas solo debiendo valerte por tus propios medios en la revuelta ciudad.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Los guardias no creen tu historia y se niegan a<br />dejarte entrar</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="668" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="668" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Asombrado y abatido por la negativa de los guardias, eres arrastrado por el tropel de gente hasta que te encuentras frente a la entrada del ayuntamiento. El edificio se alza en un extremo del puente de los Gremios, que cruza el río Eledil cerca del lugar donde éste desemboca en el golfo Holm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">Si quieres utilizar la disciplina de Rastreo, <link-text>pasa al 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">Si deseas entrar en el ayuntamiento, <link-text>pasa al número 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">Si prefieres buscar otra forma de introducirte en la ciudadela, <link-text>pasa al 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tu voz resuena entre los árboles y el encapuchado se vuelve lentamente para mirarte. Sientes que el corazón te late con violencia y la sangre se te hiela en las venas al descubrir que el extraño personaje no es un ser humano. Es un vordak, un monstruoso lugarteniente de los señores de la Oscuridad y uno de los inmortales. Un penetrante alarido te retumba en los oídos y la horrible criatura levanta una enorme maza negra por encima de su cabeza y carga contra ti. Temblando de miedo, sientes que el vordak te acomete también con la fuerza de su mente.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="342.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Resta 2 puntos de tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>, a menos que poseas la disciplina de Defensa psíquica. Debes pelear contra esa criatura, que es inmune al ataque psíquico.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect123">Si vences, <link-text>pasa al número 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Estás enredado en una masa de enmarañadas ramas y raíces. Al fin logras soltar la mano derecha, empuñar el hacha y abrirte camino muy despacio a través del follaje hasta llegar a una zona de bosque menos denso. Tienes la capa desgarrada en varios sitios y te has cortado y magullado malamente el brazo izquierdo encima del codo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">Pierdes 2 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> y <link-text>pasas al número 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te encuentras débil y aturdido. Ya no sientes las piernas, que se niegan a sostenerte. Tratas de arrastrarte hasta la puerta, pero el salteador se abalanza sobre ti y te sujeta contra el suelo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Pasa al número 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Te cubres con la capucha de tu verde capa del Kai y contienes la respiración mientras el kraan vuela en círculo por encima de ti. Pasados unos pocos minutos, oyes las furiosas maldiciones de los giaks. El ruido de las alas del kraan se apaga al desaparecer la bestia y sus jinetes por el oeste. Tus rápidos reflejos te han salvado de ser capturado y probablemente asesinado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">Puedes volver al camino <link-text>pasando al número 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">O seguir a cubierto bajo los árboles si <link-text>pasas al número 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Profundamente clavada entre las costillas del esqueleto hay una Lanza. Está en buen estado y puedes apropiártela si quieres y eres capaz.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">Para alejarte del claro, <link-text>pasa al número 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Los árboles empiezan a estar más espaciados y delante de ti distingues la silueta de una vieja cabaña de troncos bajo un roble. La cabaña parece abandonada y en ella apenas queda algo de aparente valor. Abres un pequeño cofre que hay cerca de la puerta principal y descubres unos manojos de ramas atadas con fuertes cuerdas. Uno de los extremos de los manojos está untado de brea. Son Antorchas. Junto al cofre hay una Espada corta y Yesca. Puedes quedarte con la Espada, la Yesca y una Antorcha si quieres, pero no dejes de anotarlas en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.</p>
- <p>Al salir cierras la puerta de la cabaña y te diriges hacia el nordeste por un sendero cubierto de maleza.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Pasa al número 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Al levantar la pierna para sacudirte la víbora muerta, el corazón te da un vuelco, pues descubres que era una víbora roja de los pantanos. ¡No se conoce cura para su picadura venenosa! Te das cuenta de que seguir en esa dirección sería suicida. Vuelves cautelosamente sobre tus pasos hasta que pisas de nuevo terreno firme y puedes proseguir tu misión.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Pasa al número 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect349-1-foot" idref="sect349-1">
- <p>En libros posteriores se presupone que tienes el medallón de la Estrella de Cristal y se te pregunta si lo posees para saber si has conocido a Banedon con anterioridad. También puede ser útil o no en otras situaciones. Tú decides si conservas o no el medallón.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Es un joven rubio, de ojos profundos y melancólicos. Su rostro muestra señales de agotamiento y mugre de la batalla. Su larga túnica azul celeste también lleva las huellas de una vida muy dura a la intemperie. Te estrecha la mano y te hace una reverencia.</p>
- <p>-Permíteme que te exprese mi eterno agradecimiento, señor del Kai. Mis poderes estaban a punto de agotarse. Si no hubieras acudido en mi ayuda, temo que habría acabado mis días ensartado por una lanza giak.</p>
- <p>Se encuentra muy débil y le tiemblan las piernas. Le sostienes del brazo y le ayudas a sentarse sobre una columna caída. Después escuchas atentamente lo que va a decirte.</p>
- <p>-Me llamo Banedon. Soy oficial de la Hermandad de la Estrella de Cristal, el gremio de magos de Toran. El maestre de la hermandad me ha enviado a tu monasterio con este mensaje urgente.</p>
- <p>Saca de debajo de su túnica un sobre y te lo tiende.</p>
- <p>-Como ves, he abierto la carta y he leído su contenido. Cuando estalló la guerra, yo viajaba por el camino real con dos compañeros. Los kraans nos atacaron y al huir por el bosque los perdí.</p>
- <p>La carta avisa a los señores del Kai que los señores de la Oscuridad han juntado un gran ejército al otro lado de la cordillera Durncrag. El maestre de la hermandad urge al Kai para que cancele las celebraciones de Fehmarn y se prepare para la guerra.</p>
- <p>-Me temo que hemos sido traicionados -sigue Banedon, con la cabeza agachada en actitud pesarosa-. Un miembro de mi hermandad, un hermano llamado Vonatar, había investigado los misterios prohibidos de la magia negra. Hace diez días denunció a la hermandad y mató a uno de nuestros jefes. Desde entonces ha desaparecido. Corre el rumor de que ahora ayuda a los señores de la Oscuridad.</p>
- <p>Le cuentas a Banedon lo que ha sucedido en el monasterio del Kai y tu propósito de avisar al Rey. En silencio Banedon se quita del cuello una cadena de oro y te la entrega. De la cadena cuelga un pequeño medallón de la Estrella de Cristal.</p>
- <p>-Es el símbolo de nuestra hermandad y en esta hora aciaga tú y yo somos verdaderos hermanos. Es también un talismán de la buena suerte. Ojalá te proteja en lo que te queda de camino.</p>
- <p>Le das las gracias, te pones la cadena alrededor del cuello y tapas el medallón de la <footref id="sect349-1" idref="sect349-1-foot">Estrella de Cristal</footref> con el borde de tu jubón. (Recuerda anotarlo en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>.)</p>
- <p>Banedon se despide de ti.</p>
- <p>-Debemos alejarnos de este lugar, no sea que los giaks vuelvan con refuerzos y acaben con nosotros. Que la buena suerte y los dioses te acompañen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Pasa al número 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Entras en la Cámara de Estado, un salón magnífico, lujosamente decorado en blanco y oro. El Rey y sus más inmediatos consejeros están estudiando un gran mapa extendido sobre una mesa de mármol en el centro de la cámara. En sus rostros aparecen hondas huellas de preocupación y concentración. En el salón se hace un profundo silencio cuando tú informas al Rey de la muerte de tus compañeros del Kai y de tu peligroso viaje hasta la ciudadela. Cuando acabas tu relato, el Rey se acerca a ti y toma tu mano derecha entre las suyas.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="350.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>El Rey y sus más inmediatos consejeros están<br />estudiando un gran mapa extendido sobre una mesa de<br />mármol en el centro de la cámara</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="672" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="672" />
- </illustration>
- <p>-Lobo Solitario, has dado muestras de abnegado valor, cualidad que debe poseer todo auténtico señor del Kai. Tu viaje hasta aquí ha estado lleno de peligros y, aunque las noticias que nos has traído son para nosotros un doloroso golpe, el espíritu de tu determinación es como un rayo de esperanza en esta hora funesta. Has honrado la memoria de tus maestros y por ello te alabamos.</p>
- <p>Recibes las alabanzas y el agradecimiento cordial de todos los consejeros, honores que hacen que un cierto rubor aparezca en tu rostro juvenil. El Rey levanta la mano y todas las voces se callan.</p>
- <p>-Has hecho todo lo que Sommerlund puede exigir a un hijo leal, pero el país aún te necesita. Los señores de la Oscuridad son de nuevo poderosos y su ambición no conoce límites. Nuestra única esperanza reside en Durenor, en el poder que ya una vez derrotó a los señores de la Oscuridad hace siglos. Lobo Solitario, eres el último de los señores del Kai y posees las destrezas requeridas. ¿ Quieres ir a Durenor y traer la Espada del Sol ? Sólo con ese don de los dioses podemos aplastar este mal y salvar a nuestro país.</p>
- <p>Si aceptas ir en busca de la Espada del Sol, comienza tu aventura en el libro segundo de la serie de Lobo Solitario titulado:</p>
- <p><cite><bookref series="ls" book="02fsea" section="title">Fuego sobre el agua</bookref></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Mapa de los Lastlands</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/jpeg" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- <instance src="map.png" width="512" height="384" class="pml" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.gif" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Carta de Acción</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="121" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <p><typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ>:
- <br /><typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>:</p>
- <p>Disciplinas del Kai:</p>
- <ol><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /></ol>
- <p>Armas:</p>
- <ol><li /><li /></ol>
- <p>Bolsa:</p>
- <p>Comidas:</p>
- <p>Objetos de mochila:</p>
- <ol><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /></ol>
- <p>Objetos especiales:</p>
- <ol><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /><li /></ol>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Resumen de Reglas para los Combates</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Suma a tu <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> todos los puntos extra que te proporcionen tus disciplinas del Kai.</li>
- <li>Resta de esa cantidad la <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> de tu enemigo. El número resultante es tu puntuación en el combate.</li>
- <li>Elige al azar un número en la <a idref="random">Tabla de la Suerte</a>.</li>
- <li>Consulta la <a idref="crtable">Tabla de resultados de los combates</a>.</li>
- <li>Busca en la hilera superior de recuadros tu puntuación en el combate y la casilla en que se cruce su vertical con la horizontal del número que hayas obtenido al azar y que figura en las columnas de los extremos de la izquierda y de la derecha. (E indica los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> perdidos por el enemigo; LS, los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> perdidos por Lobo Solitario).</li>
- <li>Continúa el combate desde el apartado 3 hasta que uno de los contrincantes muera. Esto sucede cuando los puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> de dicho contrincante quedan reducidos a cero.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>Eludir el Combate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Sólo puedes hacerlo cuando el texto de la aventura te ofrece esta oportunidad.</li>
- <li>Inicias el asalto de la forma habitual. Los puntos perdidos por el enemigo no se toman en cuenta y sólo Lobo Solitario pierde puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>.</li>
- <li>Si el libro te brinda la oportunidad de evadirte en vez de combatir, puedes aprovechar esa oportunidad en el primer asalto o en cualquiera de los siguientes asaltos.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Tabla de Resultados de los Combates</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Tabla de la Suerte</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Erratas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introducción</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Las publicaciones que se han hecho de la colección tienen ciertos errores. Podemos encontrar errores de traducción, en las secciones de destino de las opciones, etc. En la edición on-line están corregidos la mayoría de ellos, y se enumeran a continuación. Si aun así adviertes algo que necesite ser corregido, por favor contacta con el <a href="&link.staff.contact;">Equipo de Proyecto Aon Español</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Listado de Erratas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">Las Reglas del Juego</a>) Eliminado <quote>que figura al comienzo de este libro. Para sucesivas aventuras puedes copiar o fotocopiar esta carta</quote>. Eliminado <quote>, que aparece al final del libro</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Disciplinas del Kai</a>) Cambiados todos los símbolos de punto y coma (;) por dos puntos (:) en las descripciones de las disciplinas. Cambiados todos los puntos detrás de signo de cerrar paréntesis, en vez de antes.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipo: Cómo utilizar tu equipo</a>) Cambiados todos los puntos detrás de signo de cerrar paréntesis, en vez de antes.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Reglas para los Combates</a>) Eliminado <quote> en las páginas 222<ch.endash/>223 del libro</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="levels">Niveles de Entrenamiento Kai</a>) La sección de Niveles de Entrenamiento Kai no aparecía en el libro original, pero ha sido añadida para información del lector.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">La Sabiduría del Kai</a>) Eliminado <quote>reproducido al principio de este libro</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Reemplazado <quote>espada</quote> por <quote>Espada</quote>, porque se puede coger.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Modificada la última opción que conducía a la <a idref="sect331">Sección 331</a> para que lleve a la <a idref="sect316">Sección 316</a> igual que sucede en la <a idref="sect89">Sección 89</a>, parelela a ésta.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Camuflaje) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Rastreo) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) La versión original del libro conducía en esta sección a la <a idref="sect272">Sección 272</a>, que es incorrecto. Ahora usamos la sección correcta, <a idref="sect273">273</a>, como en las ediciones más recientes del libro.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Reordenadas las opciones. La opción que originalmente estaba la primera (sobre quitar el alfiler) es ahora la última. La opción sobre la Llave de oro que antes era la última, está ahora la primera. Además se ha añadido <quote>y quieres usarla</quote> después de <quote>Llave de oro</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Camuflaje) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Modificada la elección que conducía a la <a idref="sect286">Sección 286</a> por la <a idref="sect251">Sección 251</a>. Muchos lectores se han dado cuenta de que había un error aquí, pero asumían que los números originales simplemente habían sido invertidos, dando a Lobo Solitario la oportunidad de sobrevivir ocultándose de una muerte segura. Con el cambio de sección, no hay posibilidad de muerte automática aquí. Ocultarte se supone que te garantiza una supervivencia segura. La prueba de que esta corrección es acertada es que no hay ninguna otra forma de llegar a la <a idref="sect251">Sección 251</a>, y así todo encaja perfectamente.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Modificada la elección que conducía a la <a idref="sect140">Sección 140</a> por la <a idref="sect252">Sección 252</a>. Si lees la <a idref="sect222">Sección 222</a>, te darás cuenta de que la elección que lleva a la <a idref="sect252">Sección 252</a> es la de la ruta del este. Por tanto, sólo la <a idref="sect140">Sección 140</a> te debe conducir hasta el oso del que el Rastero se supone que te está advirtiendo en esta sección.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>) Reemplazado <quote>atravesándole la pierna izquierda</quote> por <quote>atravesándole la pierna derecha</quote> para ajustarse al texto original en inglés.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Reemplazado <quote>destreza,</quote> por <quote>destreza o no quieres utilizarla,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>) Sustituido <quote>a pesar de todo; pasa</quote> por <quote>a pesar de todo, pasa</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Rastreo) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Añadido <quote> u objetos en ella</quote> en el segundo párrafo.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Reemplazado <quote>martillo de guerra</quote> por <quote>Martillo de guerra</quote> porque puedes cogerlo.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Añadido <quote>Si deseas quitar el alfiler, pasa al número 337.</quote> Ésta es la otra posible elección que completaría la extraña sección original con una única opción. Con un lenguaje más rico podríamos darle más sentido a la nueva opción, como, por ejemplo, <quote>Si deseas quitar el alfiler con tus manos,</quote> pero para preservar al máximo la integridad del texto, simplemente hemos copiado la opción de la <a idref="sect23">Sección 23</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Movida la segunda opción (sobre Camuflaje) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Camuflaje) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Reemplazado <quote>retener</quote> por <quote>quedarte</quote> para dar más sentido al texto.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Invertido el orden de las opciones.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Cambiada la opción que conduce a la <a idref="sect215">Sección 215</a> por la <a idref="sect15">Sección 15</a>. La opción original parece tener sentido, pero realmente no lo tiene si se mira un mapa de secciones. La indicación de que la sección correcta es la <a idref="sect15">15</a> está demostrada porque no es accesible desde ninguna otra (mientras que la <a idref="sect215">Sección 215</a> sí lo es) y además la <a idref="sect15">15</a> conduce de vuelta a la <a idref="sect201">Sección 201</a> cuando coges la dirección opuesta.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Movida la segunda opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Rastreo) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Rastreo) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Camuflaje) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Sexto sentido) a la primera posición, cambiando <quote>prefieres</quote> por <quote>quieres</quote>, y movida la primera opción (que conduce a la <a idref="sect162">Sección 162</a>) a la última posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Movida la última opción (sobre Rastreo) a la primera posición.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) <quote>Vonatar,</quote> en el octavo párrafo, es citado como <quote>Vonotar</quote> en los siguientes libros de Lobo Solitario.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crtable">Tabla de Resultados de los Combates</a>) Reemplazado <quote>-11 o más</quote> por <quote>-11 o menos</quote> en las posibilidades de Puntuaciones en el Combate.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Notas a pie de página</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Guarda este objeto como una Gema Vordak. Aunque en principio el texto dice que la guardas en tu jubón, eso lo haces de forma temporal hasta que la echas más tarde en tu mochila. No es un Objeto Especial. (cf. <a idref="sect304">Sección 304</a>)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Cada Comida de Laumspur puede ser consumida cuando se te pida hacer una comida, en cuyo caso debes realizar una comida o perder 3 puntos de <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ>. El Laumspur también puede ser consumido en cualquier otro momento para restaurar <typ class="attribute">RESISTENCIA</typ> sin tener el significado de hacer una comida.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Cuenta las 20 Gemas como un Objeto Especial.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect147">147</a>) La formulación del texto de esta sección da por hecho que llegas a ella desde la <a idref="sect28">Sección 28</a>. Únicamente si has llegado a esta sección desde la <a idref="sect42">Sección 42</a>, lee la última frase y las opciones como sigue: <quote><ch.lellips/>Mientras comes, observas que el camino comienza a torcer hacie el norte. Si deseas seguirlo, <a idref="sect28">pasa al número 28</a>. Si quieres deshacer el camino andado, <a idref="sect42">pasa al número 42</a>.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Al final del segundo párrafo dice: <quote>Has perdido las armas y el equipo.</quote> Puedes ignorar esta información a no ser que te hayas rendido a los bandidos (esto es, si has llegado a esta sección procedente de la <a idref="sect205">Sección 205</a>). No hagas cambios en tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>. La orden se refiere a lo que ocurre en la <a idref="sect205">Sección 205</a>, pero también se puede llegar a esta sección desde la <a idref="sect22">Sección 22</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>) Asegúrate de borrar todos los objetos y contenedores de tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a> (por ejemplo Armas, Mochila, Objetos especiales y bolsillos del cinturón).</p>
- <p>El autor puede no haberse dado cuenta de que el Colgante de la Estrella de Cristal y el <a idref="map">Mapa de Sommerlund</a> pueden encontrarse entre los objetos perdidos. Simplemente puedes decidir quedarte con esos objetos si es que los tienes. No obstante, si prefieres llevar a cabo una interpretación estricta del texto, lo justo sería que no mires el <a idref="map">mapa</a> si no tienes el <a idref="map">Mapa de Sommerlund</a> como objeto en la mochila.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Acuérdate de borrar la Gema Vordak de tu <a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a>. Si tienes dos Gemas, sólo tienes que borrar una de ellas. La <typ class="attribute">DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</typ> perdida es permanente para el resto de la aventura.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Anota este objeto de mochila como una Gema Vordak.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) En libros posteriores se presupone que tienes el medallón de la Estrella de Cristal y se te pregunta si lo posees para saber si has conocido a Banedon con anterioridad. También puede ser útil o no en otras situaciones. Tú decides si conservas o no el medallón.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Tabla de Ilustraciones</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>La siguiente lista muestra todas las secciones que contienen ilustraciones en este libro:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Ilustraciones Principales</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Ilustración I (<a idref="sect7">Sección 7</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración II (<a idref="sect23">Sección 23</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración III (<a idref="sect34">Sección 34</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración IV (<a idref="sect41">Sección 41</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración V (<a idref="sect51">Sección 51</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración VI (<a idref="sect63">Sección 63</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración VII (<a idref="sect97">Sección 97</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración VIII (<a idref="sect121">Sección 121</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración IX (<a idref="sect131">Sección 131</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración X (<a idref="sect152">Sección 152</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XI (<a idref="sect170">Sección 170</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XII (<a idref="sect200">Sección 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XIII (<a idref="sect212">Sección 212</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XIV (<a idref="sect246">Sección 246</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XV (<a idref="sect267">Sección 267</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XVI (<a idref="sect284">Sección 284</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XVII (<a idref="sect307">Sección 307</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XVIII (<a idref="sect334">Sección 334</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XIX (<a idref="sect341">Sección 341</a>)</li>
- <li>Ilustración XX (<a idref="sect350">Sección 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="action">Carta de Acción</a></li>
- <li><a idref="map">Mapa de los Lastlands</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Ilustraciones Secundarias</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sólo se cita la primera aparición de cada ilustración secundaria.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect13">Sección 13</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect30">Sección 30</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect57">Sección 57</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect70">Sección 70</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect76">Sección 76</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect81">Sección 81</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect91">Sección 91</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect105">Sección 105</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect112">Sección 112</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect115">Sección 115</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect130">Sección 130</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect135">Sección 135</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect142">Sección 142</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect156">Sección 156</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect158">Sección 158</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect161">Sección 161</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect176">Sección 176</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect187">Sección 187</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect190">Sección 190</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect205">Sección 205</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect217">Sección 217</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect229">Sección 229</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect236">Sección 236</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect238">Sección 238</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect250">Sección 250</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect263">Sección 263</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect273">Sección 273</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect279">Sección 279</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect290">Sección 290</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect298">Sección 298</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect310">Sección 310</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect315">Sección 315</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect323">Sección 323</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect331">Sección 331</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-<!-- JC Alvarez<ch.apos/>s illustrations: DO NOT DELETE
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect17">Section 17</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect41">Section 41</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect63">Section 63</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect74">Section 74</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect97">Section 97</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect102">Section 102</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect121">Section 121</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect131">Section 131</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect140">Section 140</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect153">Section 153</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect170">Section 170</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect172">Section 172</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect187">Section 187</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect207">Section 207</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect263">Section 263</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect289">Section 289</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect297">Section 297</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect342">Section 342</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect350">Section 350</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map of the Lastlands</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect6">Section 6</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect30">Section 30</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect82">Section 82</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect91">Section 91</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect100">Section 100</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect113">Section 113</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect215">Section 215</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect221">Section 221</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect236">Section 236</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect242">Section 242</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect253">Section 253</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect267">Section 267</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect276">Section 276</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect305">Section 305</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect317">Section 317</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect323">Section 323</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect335">Section 335</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
--->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We are also grateful for the generosity of Rob Adams, Paul Bonner, Gary Chalk, Melvyn Grant, Richard Hook, Peter Andrew Jones, Cyril Julien, Peter Lyon, Ian Page, Graham Round, and Brian Williams for contributing their portions of the world of Magnamund to Project Aon. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Gamebook Document Type Definition v0.11 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-This DTD was designed around XML 1.0.
-
-This gamebook DTD is aimed primarily at the books under development by
-Project Aon (http://www.projectaon.org/). Future versions may be of
-more general utility.
-
-$Id$
-
-Change Log:
-
-26 December 2005 (version 0.11.4)
- * Added link.attributes and the optional "series" attribute to
- "bookref", and fleshed out the "bookref" and "footref"
- descriptions.
-
-5 December 2005 (version 0.11.3)
- * Corrected ATTLISTs of character elements
- * Added "ch.apos", "ch.frac116", and "ch.plus" elements
-
-9 April 2005 (version 0.11.2)
- * Added the following inline elements: "bookref", "footref".
- * Added the character elements to replace the use of character
- entities (except in attributes). These allow a processor (e.g.
- a XSL transformation) to decide how characters should be
- represented, not this DTD.
-
-18 April 2003 (version 0.11.1)
- * Added the following inline elements: "onomatopoeia", "spell",
- "item".
-
-27 January 2003 (version 0.11.0)
- * Moved the optional "footnotes" element between the "meta" and
- "data" elements.
-
-10 January 2003 (version 0.10.4)
- * Removed the "inline.content" entity from the declaration of the
- contents of the "blockquote" element. This will break some existing
- documents.
-
-7 January 2003 (version 0.10.3)
- * Made the "src", "width", and "height" attributes of the "instance"
- element IMPLIED.
-
-4 January 2003 (version 0.10.2)
- * Moved the specialized character entity definitions into module
- files.
-
-5 October 2002 (version 0.10.1)
- * Added the "lellips" and "minus" entities and changed the definition
- of the "emdash" entity.
-
-5 September 2002 (version 0.10.0)
- * Added the "quote" element.
-
-31 August 2002 (version 0.9.1)
- * Added the "xml:lang" attribute to the "core.attributes" entity.
- Although this could be used for most elements, it is primarily
- aimed at the "foreign" element.
-
-6 July 2002 (version 0.9)
- * Replaced the "caption" element and the "illustrator" attribute with
- the use of the "meta" element.
- * Renamed the "illustration-instance" element to simply "instance".
- * Removed the "character-attribute" element.
- * Added the "typ" element for typographical markup.
- * Removed the "shortname" attribute.
-
-1 June 2002 (version 0.8.3)
- * Removed the "marker" attribute from the "footnote" element.
-
-29 April 2002 (vesion 0.8.2)
- * Changed the content of the "enemy" element from "#PCDATA" to
- "%inline.content;".
-
-4 April 2002 (version 0.8.1)
- * Added the "thinspace" entity
-
-3 April 2002 (version 0.8.0)
- * Added the "thought" element.
- * Added the "foreign" element.
-
-15 March 2002 (version 0.7.0)
- * Changed the name of the "illustration-set" element to "illustration"
- and changed the name of the "illustration" element to
- "illustration-instance".
- * Made many minor changes to bring the DTD up to current practice.
-
-11 May 2001 (version 0.6.0)
- * Removed the "publication-date" element.
-
-5 May 2001 (version 0.5.0)
- * Added facilities for transformation to LaTeX - mainly appropriate
- character escapes.
- * Added the "marker" attribute to the "footnote" element.
-
-1 May 2001 (version 0.4.0)
-
- * Added the "link" element to the set of allowable "meta" elements.
- Although not a Dublin Core meta-data element, it's functionality
- adds a lot to the document.
-
-30 April 2001 (version 0.3.0)
-
- * Changed the basic orgranization of the sections by allowing them to
- have their own meta section instead of a "section-title" element.
- * Changed the name of the "section-data" element to simply "data".
-
-17 April 2001 (version 0.2.0)
-
- * Changed some of the block and inline elements in order to make them
- more useful.
-
-14 April 2001 (version 0.1.0)
-
- * First revision
- -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Table of Contents -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!--
-
- I. Entities
- A. General Entities
- B. Character Entities
- II. Hierarchical Elements
-III. Block Elements
- IV. Inline Elements
- V. Character Elements
-
- VI. Appendices
- A. Valid Document Example
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Entities -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: General Entities :::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY % character.content "ch.apos | ch.nbsp | ch.iexcl | ch.cent | ch.pound | ch.curren | ch.yen | ch.brvbar | ch.sect | ch.uml | ch.copy | ch.ordf | ch.laquo | ch.not | ch.shy | ch.reg | ch.macr | ch.deg | ch.plusmn | ch.sup2 | ch.sup3 | ch.acute | ch.micro | ch.para | ch.middot | ch.cedil | ch.sup1 | ch.ordm | ch.raquo | ch.frac14 | ch.frac12 | ch.frac34 | ch.iquest | ch.Agrave | ch.Aacute | ch.Acirc | ch.Atilde | ch.Auml | ch.Aring | ch.AElig | ch.Ccedil | ch.Egrave | ch.Eacute | ch.Ecirc | ch.Euml | ch.Igrave | ch.Iacute | ch.Icirc | ch.Iuml | ch.ETH | ch.Ntilde | ch.Ograve | ch.Oacute | ch.Ocirc | ch.Otilde | ch.Ouml | ch.times | ch.Oslash | ch.Ugrave | ch.Uacute | ch.Ucirc | ch.Uuml | ch.Yacute | ch.THORN | ch.szlig | ch.agrave | ch.aacute | ch.acirc | ch.atilde | ch.auml | ch.aring | ch.aelig | ch.ccedil | ch.egrave | ch.eacute | ch.ecirc | ch.euml | ch.igrave | ch.iacute | ch.icirc | ch.iuml | ch.eth | ch.ntilde | ch.ograve | ch.oacute | ch.ocirc | ch.otilde | ch.ouml | ch.divide | ch.oslash | ch.ugrave | ch.uacute | ch.ucirc | ch.uuml | ch.yacute | ch.thorn | ch.yuml | ch.ampersand | ch.lsquot | ch.rsquot | ch.ldquot | ch.rdquot | ch.minus | ch.endash | ch.emdash | ch.ellips | ch.lellips | ch.blankline | ch.percent | ch.thinspace | ch.frac116 | ch.plus">
-
-<!ENTITY % inline.content "#PCDATA | a | bookref | footref | em | strong | thought | foreign | quote | cite | code | br | typ | onomatopoeia | spell | item | %character.content;">
-
-<!ENTITY % block.content "p | ul | ol | dl | table | blockquote | illustration | combat | choice | signpost | hr">
-
-<!ENTITY % core.attributes "
- class CDATA #IMPLIED
- xml:lang CDATA #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!ENTITY % link.attributes "
- idref IDREF #IMPLIED
- id ID #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!ENTITY % cell.align.attributes "
- align ( left | center | right | justify | char ) #IMPLIED
- char CDATA #IMPLIED
- valign ( top | middle | bottom | baseline ) #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::: Character Entities ::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY lt "&#60;"><!-- left angle bracket -->
-<!ENTITY gt ">"> <!-- right angle bracket -->
-<!ENTITY amp "&#38;"><!-- ampersand -->
-<!ENTITY apos "'"> <!-- apostrophe = single quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY quot """> <!-- double quotation mark -->
-
-<!--
-
-It is the responsibility of the document to define relevant character
-entities in its internal subset. See also Character Elements below.
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Hierarchical Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-
-<!ELEMENT gamebook ( meta, section+ )>
-<!ATTLIST gamebook
- version CDATA #REQUIRED
- xml:lang CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "version" attribute represents the revision number of the gamebook
-DTD. This allows gamebook processors to make decisions about the
-suitability of the data.
-
-The "xml:lang" attribute specifies the primary language of the
-document. The data should conform to the IETF RFC1766.
-
- http://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc1766.txt
-
-Examples:
-
- <gamebook version="0.11" xml:lang="en-UK">
- <meta . . .> . . . </meta>
- <section . . .> . . . </section>
- . . .
- </gamebook>
-
- <gamebook version="0.11" > . . . </gamebook>
-
--->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::::: meta Element ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-<!--
-
-The children of the meta element are designed to directly translate to
-the Dublin Core Element Set v1.1. For a description of each Dublin
-Core element, visit the following URL:
-
- (http://dublincore.org/documents/1999/07/02/dces/)
-
-Although many Dublin Core elements will probably never have any real
-relevance to gamebooks, all are included for completeness's sake.
-
-[editor: add dc: namespace to isolate dublin core elements
- http://dublincore.org/documents/2001/10/26/dcmi-namespace/ ]
-
-Note: The "link" element doesn't correspond directly to any Dublin
-Core element. It has been added here for required functionality.
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT meta ( title | creator | subject | description | publisher | contributor | date | type | format | identifier | source | language | relation | coverage | rights | link)*>
-<!--
-
-The "meta" element represents underlying information about the
-document. It should contain any number of the Dublin Core 1.1
-elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <meta>
- <title . . .> . . . </title>
- <creator . . .> . . . </creator>
- . . .
- </meta>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT title ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST title
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT creator ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST creator
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT subject ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST subject
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT description ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST description
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT publisher ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST publisher
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT contributor ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST contributor
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT date ( year, month, day )>
-<!ATTLIST date
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "date" element has been extended beyond the specification made in
-the Dublin Core. It should contain "year", "month" and "day" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <date>
- <year . . .> . . . </year>
- <month . . .> . . . </month>
- <day . . .> . . . </day>
- </date>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT year ( #PCDATA )>
-<!--
-
-The year should be specified in full digit numeric format.
-
-Example:
-
- <year>2001</year>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT month ( #PCDATA )>
-<!--
-
-The month should be specified in numeric format with January as "1",
-February as "2", etc.
-
-Example:
-
- <month>4</month>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT day ( #PCDATA )>
-<!--
-
-The "day" element specifies the day of the month in numeric format.
-
-Example:
-
- <day>14</day>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT type ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST type
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT format ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST format
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT identifier ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST identifier
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT source ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST source
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT language ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST language
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT relation ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST relation
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT coverage ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST coverage
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT rights ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST rights
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT link EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST link
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
- idrefs IDREFS #IMPLIED>
-<!--
-
-The "link" element has been added to the Dublin Core elements to
-represent relationships to other parts of the document. The "idrefs"
-attribute has been added to allow relationships that are held with
-more than one part of the document.
-
-Examples:
-
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
-
- <link class="friends" idrefs="dedicate cmbtrulz" />
-
--->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: section Element ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT section ( meta, footnotes?, data )>
-<!ATTLIST section
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "section" element represents one hierarchical level of data.
-Section elements can be nested (inside the "data" element) in
-order to create more complex data representations.
-
-A "section" element can used as a linking element. The most useful way
-to utilize this is to make it a named anchor and thus the target of a
-"choice" element.
-
-Examples:
-
- <section>
- <meta><title . . .> . . . </title></meta>
- <data . . .> . . . </data>
- <footnotes . . .> . . . </footnotes>
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta><title . . .> . . . </title></meta>
- <data . . .>
- . . .
- <section id="dedication">
- <meta><title . . .> . . . </title></meta>
- <data . . .> . . . </data>
- </section>
- . . .
- </data>
- </section>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT data ( %block.content; | section )*>
-<!ATTLIST data
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "data" element contains the main data contained within
-a section. Note that a nested section structure can be created by
-including a "section" element within the content of the "data"
-element.
-
-Examples:
-
- <data>
- <p . . .> . . . </p>
- <combat . . .> . . . </combat>
- . . .
- </data>
-
- <data>
- <section . . .> . . . </section>
- </data>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT footnotes ( footnote )*>
-<!ATTLIST footnotes
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "footnotes" element represents the collection of extra-textual
-information contained within "footnote" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote . . .> . . . </footnote>
- <footnote . . .> . . . </footnote>
- . . .
- </footnotes>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT footnote ( %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST footnote
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "footnote" element contains extra-textual information. It can be
-used as a linking element and can thus be used to refer back to a
-named anchor within the document.
-
-Example:
-
- <data . . .>
- <p . . .>This paragraph requires an appropriate
- <a id="reference" idref="footnote-reference" . . .>footnote</a>.
- </p>
- . . .
- </data>
- <footnotes . . .>
- <footnote id="footnote-reference" idref="reference">
- <p . . .>This is the appropriate footnote.</p>
- </footnote>
- . . .
- </footnotes>
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Block Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::::::: Lists :::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT ul ( li )*>
-<!ATTLIST ul
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "ul" represents an unordered list.
-
-Example:
-
- <ul>
- <li . . .> . . . </li>
- <li . . .> . . . </li>
- . . .
- </ul>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT ol ( li )*>
-<!ATTLIST ol
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "ol" element represents an ordered list.
-
-Example:
-
- <ol>
- <li . . .> . . . First Item . . . </li>
- <li . . .> . . . Second Item . . . </li>
- . . .
- </ol>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT li ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST li
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "li" element is a generic list item used within both ordered and
-unordered lists (i.e. "ol" and "ul" elements).
-
-Examples:
-
- <ul . . .>
- . . .
- <li>list item</li>
- <li>another list item</li>
- . . .
- </ul>
-
- <ol . . .>
- <li>first list item</li>
- <li>second list item</li>
- . . .
- </ol>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT dl ( dt, dd? )*>
-<!ATTLIST dl
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "dl" element represents a list of terms and their definitions.
-
-Example:
-
- <dl>
- <dt . . .> . . . First Term . . . </dt>
- <dd . . .> . . . First Term's Definition . . . </dd>
- . . .
- <dt . . .> . . . Second Term . . . </dt>
- <dd . . .> . . . Second Term's Definition . . . </dd>
- <dt . . .> . . . Third Term with No Definition . . . </dt>
- </dl>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT dt ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST dt
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "dt" element represents a definition term within a definition
-list. It should be immediately followed by its definitions contained
-within "dd" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <dl . . .>
- . . .
- <dt>Definition Term</dt>
- <dd . . .> . . . Definition . . . </dd>
- . . .
- </dl>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT dd ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST dd
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "dd" element contains a definition.
-
-Example:
-
- <dt . . .> . . . Term to be defined . . . </dt>
- <dd>Definition of the term.</dd>
-
--->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::::::: Tables ::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT table ( tr )*>
-<!ATTLIST table
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "table" element represents tabular data. It's data is organized
-within rows.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT tr ( th | td )*>
-<!ATTLIST tr
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "tr" element contains a collection of "th" and "td" elements that
-represent one row of a "table".
-
-Example:
-
- <table . . .>
- . . .
- <tr>
- <th . . .> . . . </th>
- <td . . .> . . . </td>
- . . .
- </tr>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT th ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST th
- %core.attributes;
- %cell.align.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "th" contains a table header used to label a particular row or
-column of tabular data.
-
-Example:
-
- <tr . . .>
- . . .
- <th>Row Label</th>
- <td . . .> . . . </td>
- <td . . .> . . . </td>
- . . .
- </tr>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT td ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST td
- %core.attributes;
- %cell.align.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "td" element contains one cell of tabular data.
-
-Example:
-
- <tr . . .>
- . . .
- <td>Cell data</td>
- . . .
- </tr>
-
--->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::: Miscellaneous :::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT p ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST p
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "p" element contains a paragraph.
-
-Example:
-
- <p>This is a (short) paragraph.</p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT blockquote ( %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST blockquote
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "blockquote" element contains a lengthy quotation which isn't
-contained within a paragraph.
-
-Example:
-
- <blockquote>
- <p>There was once a Kai monk from Sommerlund . . .</p>
- </blockquote>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT combat ( enemy, enemy-attribute+ )>
-<!ATTLIST combat
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "combat" element contains one combat represented by the enemy's
-name and attributes.
-
-Example:
-
- <combat>
- <enemy . . .> . . . </enemy>
- <enemy-attribute . . .> . . . </enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute . . .> . . . </enemy-attribute>
- . . .
- </combat>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT enemy ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST enemy
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "enemy" element contains an enemy's name.
-
-Example:
-
- <combat . . .>
- . . .
- <enemy>12-foot Giak</enemy>
- . . .
- </combat>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT enemy-attribute ( #PCDATA )*>
-<!ATTLIST enemy-attribute
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "enemy-attribute" element contains one particular attribute which
-describes an enemy.
-
-Example:
-
- <combat . . .>
- . . .
- <enemy-attribute>30</enemy-attribute>
- . . .
- </combat>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT choice ( %inline.content; | link-text )*>
-<!ATTLIST choice
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "choice" element contains the text describing a choice presented
-within a section. It's a linking element and therefore can link to
-the place to which the choice leads.
-
-The choice element can contain "link-text" elements which suggest text
-that should be used by the user agent to represent the hyperlink.
-
-Example:
-
- <section id="section12" . . .> . . . </section>
- . . .
- <choice idref="section12">If you would like to fight the 12-foot Giak,
- <link-text . . .> . . . turn to 12. . . . </link-text>
- </choice>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT link-text ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST link-text
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "link-text" element contains text which is suggested for use by
-hypertext user interfaces to represent one end of a hyperlink.
-
-Example:
-
- <choice . . .>
- . . .
- <link-text>the unfortunately ubiquitous "Click Here!"</link-text>
- . . .
- </choice>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT illustration ( meta?, instance+ )>
-<!ATTLIST illustration
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-
-<!--
-
-The "illustration" element contains a set of alternate
-representations of a particular illustration.
-
-Example:
-
- <illustration>
- <meta> . . . </meta>
- <instance . . .> . . . </instance>
- <instance . . .> . . . </instance>
- . . .
- </illustration>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT instance ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST instance
- %core.attributes;
- src CDATA #IMPLIED
- width CDATA #IMPLIED
- height CDATA #IMPLIED
- mime-type CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "instance" element describes one instance of an illustration.
-
-The "src" attribute is a URL for the data file for the illustration.
-
-The "width" and "height" attributes contain the dimensions of the
-illustration.
-
-The "mime-type" attribute can contain an appropriate label for the
-format of the illustration file (e.g. "image/png" or "image/jpeg").
-
-The "instance" element can contain block or inline content that
-is intended to replace graphical illustrations.
-
-Example:
-
- <illustration . . .>
- . . .
- <instance src="17.gif" width="386" height="532" type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="" width="" height="" type="text" >
- [content here]
- </instance>
- . . .
- </illustration>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT signpost ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST signpost
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "signpost" element contains the text of a sign or message that
-should be presented offset from surrounding text.
-
-Example:
-
- <signpost>RENDALIM'S LABORATORY</signpost>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT hr EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST hr
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "hr" element designates a horizontal rule. Since this is a
-presentational tag, it should be used sparingly in cases where new
-logical divisions of the text begin which aren't given a unique
-title.
-
-Example:
-
- <hr />
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Inline Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!ELEMENT a ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST a
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
- href CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "a" element is used to contain inline content that should be a
-hypertext anchor. The "a" element should not contain another linking
-element (e.g. "a", "bookref", "footref").
-
-The "href" attribute is added to allow a reference outside of the
-document itself.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <a idref="section12" id="foo">Section 12</a>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT bookref ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST bookref
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
- series CDATA #IMPLIED
- book CDATA #REQUIRED
- section CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "bookref" element is used to contain inline content that should be a
-hypertext anchor to another book.
-
-The "series" attribute is a tag that denotes the series of the book that
-the link points to. The attribute may be left out if the book is part of
-the same series as the one containing the link.
-
-The "book" attribute is a tag that denotes the book that the link points
-to. This is not necessarily a URL.
-
-The "section" attribute is a tag indicating which section to link to.
-This is not necessarily a URL. The attribute may be left out if no
-particular section is referred to.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <bookref series="lw" book="11tpot" section="sect33">
- The Prisoners of Time: Section 33
- </bookref>
- . . .
- </p>
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <bookref book="04wotw">Book 4</bookref>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT footref ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST footref
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "footref" element is used to indicate the position of a reference
-to a "footnote" element. It should normally not contain any text.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- You lose 3EP.<footref id="footref1" idref="footnote1"/>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT em ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST em
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "em" element contains text that should be emphasized. Although not
-part of the DTD and therefore not guaranteed or required to be so, the
-text should be typeset with an italic font.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <em>You are being attacked!</em>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT strong ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST strong
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "strong" element contains text that should be emphasized. Although
-not part of the DTD and therefore not guaranteed or required to be so,
-the text should be typeset with a bold font weight.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <strong>If</strong> you have the Talisman of Supreme Obscurity,
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT thought ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST thought
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "thought" element contains text that is the character's thoughts or is
-an overheard thought. Although not part of the DTD and therefore not
-guaranteed or required to be so, the text should be typeset with an italic
-font face.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- Lone Wolf heard the words <thought>Die Northlander!</strong> echo in
- his mind,
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT foreign ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST foreign
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "foreign" element contains a phrase in a non-native language.
-Although not part of the DTD and therefore not guaranteed or required
-to be so, the text should be typeset with an italic font face.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- The Giak horde attacked <foreign>en masse</foreign>.
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT quote ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST quote
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "quote" element contains an inline quotation.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>The Giak yelped <quote . . .>Oww!</quote></p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT cite ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST cite
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "cite" element contains the title of a sited resource.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT code ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST code
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "code" element contains data that should be interpreted as literal
-input to a computer (e.g. email addresses and URIs).
-
-Example:
-
- <code>http://www.projectaon.org/</code>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT br EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST br
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "br" indicates a required line break. Its use should be confined
-to documents such as poems that require a particular line structure.
-
-Example:
-
- <blockquote . . .>
- . . .
- There once was a Kai monk from Sommerlund<br />
- Who always wore a cummerbund<br />
- . . .
- </blockquote>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT typ ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST typ
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "typ" element is used to denote purely typographical markup. For
-example, bold font face, italics, and smaller font are purely of
-typographical concern. Take care to not use this in place of logical
-markup such as the "em" element when it is more appropriate.
-
-Example:
-
-The <typ class="bold">Project Aon</a> volunteers.
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT onomatopoeia ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST onomatopoeia
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "onomatopoeia" element is used to denote words that imitate a
-sound (e.g., "whoosh", "bang").
-
-Example:
-
-The <onomatopoeia>clang</onomatopoeia> of the bell is deafening.
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT spell ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST spell
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "spell" element contains the name of a magic spell.
-
-Example:
-
-Having had no success with his female peers, the acolyte learned the
-forbidden <spell>Attract Opposite Gender</spell> spell.
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT item ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST item
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "item" element contains the name of an item that the reader can
-pick up or interact with.
-
-Example:
-
-Her <item>Sword</a> lay just out of reach.
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Character Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-The character elments provide a hook to specify a character without
-specifying the exact representation in target formats. The exact
-representation used is the responsibility of the processor (e.g XSLT
-stylesheet.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.apos EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.apos %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.nbsp EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.nbsp %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- inverted exclamation mark, U+00A1 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.iexcl EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.iexcl %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- cent sign, U+00A2 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.cent EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.cent %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.pound EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.pound %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.curren EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.curren %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.yen EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.yen %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.brvbar EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.brvbar %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sect EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sect %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.uml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.uml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.copy EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.copy %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ordf EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ordf %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.laquo EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.laquo %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.not EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.not %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.shy EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.shy %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.reg EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.reg %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.macr EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.macr %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.deg EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.deg %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.plusmn EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.plusmn %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sup2 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sup2 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sup3 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sup3 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.acute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.acute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.micro EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.micro %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.para EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.para %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.middot EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.middot %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.cedil EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.cedil %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sup1 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sup1 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ordm EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ordm %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.raquo EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.raquo %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac14 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac14 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac12 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac12 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac34 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac34 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.iquest EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.iquest %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Agrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Agrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Aacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Aacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Acirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Acirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Atilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Atilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Auml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Auml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Aring EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Aring %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.AElig EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.AElig %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ccedil EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ccedil %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Egrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Egrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Eacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Eacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ecirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ecirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Euml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Euml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Igrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Igrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Iacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Iacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Icirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Icirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Iuml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Iuml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ETH EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ETH %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ntilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ntilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ograve EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ograve %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Oacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Oacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ocirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ocirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Otilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Otilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ouml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ouml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.times EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.times %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Oslash EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Oslash %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ugrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ugrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Uacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Uacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ucirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ucirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Uuml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Uuml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Yacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Yacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.THORN EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.THORN %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.szlig EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.szlig %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.atilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.atilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ecirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ecirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.igrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.igrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.iacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.iacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.icirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.icirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.eth EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.eth %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
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-
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-
-<!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.uacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.uacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ucirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ucirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
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-
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-
-<!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.yuml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.yuml %core.attributes;>
-
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: Special Characters :::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!-- ampersand -->
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-
-<!-- opening left quotation mark -->
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-
-<!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.rsquot EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.rsquot %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
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-
-<!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.rdquot EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.rdquot %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- mathematical minus -->
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-
-<!-- endash -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.endash EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.endash %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- emdash -->
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-
-<!-- ellipsis -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ellips EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ellips %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
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-
-<!-- blank line to be filled in -->
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-
-<!-- percent sign -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.percent EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.percent %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks - added mainly for LaTeX's sake -->
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-
-<!-- vulgar fraction one sixteenth = fraction on sixteenth -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac116 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac116 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- mathematical plus -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.plus EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.plus %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Appendices -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::: Valid Gamebook Document Example :::::::::::::: -->
-<!--
-This document is not intended to document current practice in Project
-Aon. It is merely here to demonstrate the concepts of the Gamebook
-DTD. For current practice, please refer to published XML files.
--->
-
-<!--
-
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd">
-
-<gamebook version="0.11" xml:lang="en-UK">
-
-<meta>
- <title>Flight from the Dark</title>
- <creator>Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date><year>2001</year><month>10</month><day>24</day></date>
- <rights>Copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="section1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>You must make haste for you sense it is not safe to linger by the smoking remains of the ruined monastery. The black-winged beasts could return at any moment. You must set out for the Sommerlund capital of Holmgard and tell the King the terrible news of the massacre: that the whole <ch.eacute/>lite of Kai warriors, save yourself, have been slaughtered. Without the Kai Lords to lead her armies, Sommerlund will be at the mercy of their ancient enemy, the Darklords.</p>
- <p>Fighting back tears, you bid farewell to your dead kinsmen. Silently, you promise that their deaths will be avenged. You turn away from the ruins and carefully descend the steep track.</p>
- <p>At the foot of the hill, the path splits into two directions, both leading into a large wood.</p>
-
- <choice idref="section85">If you wish to take the right path into the wood, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section275">If you wish to follow the left track, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section141">If you wish to use your Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- <footnotes>
- <footnote><p>Later books use <quote>Sommlending</quote> as the possessive adjective for Sommerlund, contrary to the use of the word <quote>Sommerlund</quote> in the third sentence. This is probably not a typo, but a reflection of Joe Dever<ch.apos/>s later expansion of the vocabulary of Magnamund.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-</section>
-
-<section id="section17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon to strike at the beast as its razor-fanged mouth snaps shut just inches from your head. Buffeted by the beating of its wings you find it difficult to stand.</p>
-
- <illustration>
- <instance src="1.gif" width="386" height="532" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Deduct 1 point from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight the Kraan.</p>
-
- <combat>
- <enemy>Kraan:</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute>16</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute>24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
-
- <p>If you kill the creature, you quickly descend the far side of the hill to avoid the Giaks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the Random Number Table.</p>
-
- <choice idref="section53">If you pick 0, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section274">If you pick 1<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section316">If you pick 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-</section>
-
-<section id="section53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
-
--->
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Gary Chalk</strong>. Nacido en 1952, creci<ch.oacute/> en el ambiente rural de Hertfordshire (Gran Breta<ch.ntilde/>a). Su gran inter<ch.eacute/>s por la historia le llev<ch.oacute/> a tomar parte desde los quince a<ch.ntilde/>os en juegos de guerra, un hobby que a<ch.uacute/>n hoy cultiva. Despu<ch.eacute/>s de obtener su licenciatura en Dibujo hizo pr<ch.aacute/>cticas durante tres a<ch.ntilde/>os en un estudio y consigui<ch.oacute/> el titulo de profesor de Arte y Dibujo. Trabajando como ilustrador de libros infantiles empez<ch.oacute/> a interesarse por los juegos de aventuras, inter<ch.eacute/>s que le ha conducido a ilustrar varios juegos de gran <ch.eacute/>xito como Cry Havoc, Starship Captain y Battlecars (este <ch.uacute/>ltimo en colaboraci<ch.oacute/>n con Ian Livingstone). Pero quiz<ch.aacute/> la obra que le ha dado m<ch.aacute/>s fama sea el juego del Talism<ch.aacute/>n, que ha obtenido un <ch.eacute/>xito enorme.</p>
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- General Inclusions Module v0.3 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-These inclusions define commonly used snippets of text.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw SYSTEM "jdbiolw.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.joe.dever.bio.gs SYSTEM "jdbiogs.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.joe.dever.bio.fw SYSTEM "jdbiofw.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.gary.chalk.bio.lw SYSTEM "gcbiolw.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw SYSTEM "bwbiolw.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.ian.page.bio.gs SYSTEM "ipbiogs.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.paul.bonner.bio.gs SYSTEM "pbbiogs.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.melvyn.grant.bio.fw SYSTEM "mgbiofw.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.joe.dever.endowment SYSTEM "endowmnt.inc">
-<!ENTITY inclusion.project.aon.license SYSTEM "license.inc">
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- General Links Module v0.3 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-These entities define URLs of general utility.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY link.project.website "http://www.projectaon.org/es/">
-<!ENTITY link.staff.contact "http://www.projectaon.org/es/contact.htm">
-<!ENTITY link.license "http://www.projectaon.org/es/license/">
-<!ENTITY link.gary.chalk.website "http://www.garychalk.com/">
-<!ENTITY link.the.affair.website "http://www.theaffair.co.uk/">
-<!ENTITY link.paul.bonner.website "http://www.paulbonnerart.com/">
-<!ENTITY link.melvyn.grant.website "http://www.melgrant.com/">
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- XHTML Characters Module v0.1 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-This module defines the mapping between the character entities used in
-the Project Aon instances of Gamebook XML and the ISO-8859-1
-characters.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY nbsp " "><!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
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-<!ENTITY pound "£"><!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY curren "¤"><!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY yen "¥"><!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY brvbar "¦"><!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sect "§"><!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY uml "¨"><!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY copy "©"><!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordf "ª"><!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY laquo "«"><!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY not "¬"><!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY shy "­"><!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY reg "®"><!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY macr "¯"><!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY deg "°"><!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY plusmn "±"><!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup2 "²"><!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup3 "³"><!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY acute "´"><!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY micro "µ"><!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY para "¶"><!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY middot "·"><!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY cedil "¸"><!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY sup1 "¹"><!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordm "º"><!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY raquo "»"><!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac14 "¼"><!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac12 "½"><!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac34 "¾"><!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY iquest "¿"><!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Agrave "À"><!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aacute "Á"><!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
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-<!ENTITY Egrave "È"><!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Eacute "É"><!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ecirc "Ê"><!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Euml "Ë"><!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Igrave "Ì"><!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iacute "Í"><!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Icirc "Î"><!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iuml "Ï"><!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ETH "Ð"><!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ntilde "Ñ"><!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ograve "Ò"><!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Oacute "Ó"><!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ocirc "Ô"><!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Otilde "Õ"><!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ouml "Ö"><!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY times "×"><!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Oslash "Ø"><!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ugrave "Ù"><!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uacute "Ú"><!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ucirc "Û"><!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uuml "Ü"><!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Yacute "Ý"><!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY THORN "Þ"><!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY szlig "ß"><!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY agrave "à"><!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aacute "á"><!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY acirc "â"><!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY atilde "ã"><!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY auml "ä"><!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aring "å"><!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aelig "æ"><!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ccedil "ç"><!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY egrave "è"><!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eacute "é"><!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ecirc "ê"><!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY euml "ë"><!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY igrave "ì"><!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iacute "í"><!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY icirc "î"><!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iuml "ï"><!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eth "ð"><!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ntilde "ñ"><!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ograve "ò"><!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY oacute "ó"><!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ocirc "ô"><!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY otilde "õ"><!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ouml "ö"><!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY divide "÷"><!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY oslash "ø"><!-- latin small letter o with stroke, = latin small letter o slash, U+00F8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ugrave "ù"><!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uacute "ú"><!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ucirc "û"><!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uuml "ü"><!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yacute "ý"><!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY thorn "þ"><!-- latin small letter thorn, U+00FE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yuml "ÿ"><!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: Special Characters :::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY ampersand "&"><!-- ampersand -->
-<!ENTITY lsquot "'"><!-- opening left quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rsquot "'"><!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY ldquot """><!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rdquot """><!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY minus "-"><!-- mathematical minus -->
-<!ENTITY endash "-"><!-- endash -->
-<!ENTITY emdash "--"><!-- emdash -->
-<!ENTITY ellips " . . ."><!-- ellipsis -->
-<!ENTITY lellips ". . . "><!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
-<!ENTITY blankline "_______"><!-- blank line to be filled in -->
-<!ENTITY percent "%"><!-- percent sign -->
-<!ENTITY thinspace ""><!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks - added mainly for LaTeX's sake -->
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- XHTML Links Module v0.1 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-These entities define link URLs between books when using XHTML. Note
-that the facility hasn't been added to link between book series
-although it would be trivial to do so.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY link.01fftd "../../lw/01fftd/title.htm">
-<!ENTITY link.02fotw "../../lw/02fotw/title.htm">
-<!ENTITY link.03tcok "../../lw/03tcok/title.htm">
-<!ENTITY link.04tcod "../../lw/04tcod/title.htm">
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- <p><strong>Ian Page</strong> was born in London in 1960. Since the age of sixteen he has pursued a successful career as a singer/songwriter. With the band Secret Affair, he had a string of chart hits to his credit including <cite>Time for Action</cite> and <cite>My World</cite>. His interest in the fantastic worlds of <quote>Sword and Sorcery</quote> dates back to his early teens, and to his love of the novels of J.R.R. Tolkien and Michael Moorcock. It was in 1979, when Joe Dever introduced him to role-playing games, that his involvement in the world of Magnamund began. He contributed greatly to the development of the southern reaches of this fantastic world, and worked closely with Joe on several other role-playing games projects that include TV and radio appearances.</p>
- <p>Ian has since re-entered the music industry with a band known as <a href="&link.the.affair.website;">The Affair</a>.</p>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels and editor for the World of Lone Wolf series, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong> naci<ch.oacute/> en el a<ch.ntilde/>o 1956 en Woodford Bridge (Essex, Gran Breta<ch.ntilde/>a). Al concluir sus estudios, trabaj<ch.oacute/> como m<ch.uacute/>sico en unos importantes estudios de grabaci<ch.oacute/>n de Londres. En un viaje de negocios a Los <ch.Aacute/>ngeles en 1977 descubri<ch.oacute/> el juego de encarnar personajes titulado Dungeons and Dragons (Mazmorras y Dragones), que inmediatamente le entusiasm<ch.oacute/>. En 1982 gan<ch.oacute/> en los Estados Unidos el Advanced Dungeons and Dragons Championship, en el que era el <ch.uacute/>nico competidor brit<ch.aacute/>nico. Desde entonces ha participado en numerosos programas de radio y televisi<ch.oacute/>n y su nombre ha aparecido muchas veces en la prensa en relaci<ch.oacute/>n con este hobby. Las aventuras de Lobo Solitario son la culminaci<ch.oacute/>n de muchos a<ch.ntilde/>os de trabajo consagrados por el autor a crear y desarrollar el mundo fant<ch.aacute/>stico de Magnamund. Joe Dever proyecta revelar en pr<ch.oacute/>ximos libros nuevas maravillas de las Lastlands.</p>
+++ /dev/null
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Licencia del Proyecto Aon</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 de Mayo de 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- LaTeX Characters Module v0.1 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-This module defines the mapping between the character entities used in
-the Project Aon instances of Gamebook XML and the ISO-8859-1
-characters. It is targeted at LaTeX as the output encoding.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY nbsp "~"><!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
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-<!ENTITY sect "\S "><!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY uml "\"{ }"><!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY copy "\copyright "><!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordf "?"><!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY laquo "?"><!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY not "\not "><!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY shy "\-"><!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY reg "?"><!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY macr "\={ }"><!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY deg "?"><!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY plusmn "?"><!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup2 "?"><!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup3 "?"><!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY acute "\'{ }"><!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY micro "?"><!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY para "\P"><!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY middot "?"><!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY cedil "\c{ }"><!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY sup1 "?"><!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordm "?"><!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY raquo "?"><!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac14 "?"><!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac12 "?"><!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac34 "?"><!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY iquest "?`"><!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Agrave "\`{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aacute "\'{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Acirc "\^{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Atilde "\~{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Auml "\"{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aring "\AA"><!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY AElig "\AE"><!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ccedil "\c{C}"><!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Egrave "\`{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Eacute "\'{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ecirc "\^{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Euml "\"{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Igrave "\`{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iacute "\'{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Icirc "\^{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iuml "\"{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ETH "?"><!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ntilde "\~{N}"><!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ograve "\`{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Oacute "\'{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ocirc "\^{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Otilde "\~{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ouml "\"{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY times "?"><!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Oslash "\O"><!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ugrave "\`{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uacute "\'{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ucirc "\^{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uuml "\"{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Yacute "\'{Y}"><!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY THORN "?"><!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY szlig "\ss"><!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY agrave "\`{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aacute "\'{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY acirc "\^{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY atilde "\~{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY auml "\"{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aring "\aa"><!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aelig "\ae"><!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ccedil "\c{c}"><!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY egrave "\`{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eacute "\'{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ecirc "\^{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY euml "\"{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY igrave "\`{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iacute "\'{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY icirc "\^{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iuml "\"{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eth "ð"><!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ntilde "\~{n}"><!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ograve "\`{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY oacute "\'{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ocirc "\^{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY otilde "\~{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ouml "\"{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY divide "?"><!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY oslash "\o"><!-- latin small letter o with stroke, = latin small letter o slash, U+00F8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ugrave "\`{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uacute "\'{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ucirc "\^{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uuml "\"{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yacute "\'{y}"><!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY thorn "?"><!-- latin small letter thorn, U+00FE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yuml "\"{y}"><!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: Special Characters :::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY ampersand "\&"><!-- ampersand -->
-<!ENTITY lsquot "`"><!-- opening left quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rsquot "'"><!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY ldquot "``"><!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rdquot "''"><!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY minus "-"><!-- mathematical minus -->
-<!ENTITY endash "-"><!-- endash -->
-<!ENTITY emdash "--"><!-- emdash -->
-<!ENTITY ellips "~\ldots "><!-- ellipsis -->
-<!ENTITY lellips "\ldots ~"><!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
-<!ENTITY blankline "\_\_\_\_\_\_\_"><!-- blank line to be filled in -->
-<!ENTITY percent "\%"><!-- percent sign -->
-<!ENTITY thinspace "\,"><!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks -->
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Paul Bonner</strong> is the illustrator of the World of Lone Wolf series of gamebooks. His childhood love of <quote>folk-tales, fairy-stories, <cite>The Hobbit</cite>, Scandanavian tales, myths, and sagas</quote> led Paul Bonner to spend four years at Harrow, a London art school, on an illustrating course of study.</p>
- <p>His artwork for the <cite>World of Lone Wolf</cite> series is among his earliest professional work. He subsequently started freelancing for Games Workshop and later accepted a full-time position. He worked there for a few years before moving on to produce full-colour artwork (which Games Workshop had not required from him). He moved to Copenhagen, Denmark and again began to work as a freelance illustrator.</p>
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- PML Characters Module v0.1 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-This module defines the mapping between the character entities used in
-the Project Aon instances of Gamebook XML and the ISO-8859-1
-characters.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY nbsp "\a160"><!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY iexcl "\a161"><!-- inverted exclamation mark, U+00A1 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY cent "\a162"><!-- cent sign, U+00A2 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY pound "\a163"><!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY curren "\a164"><!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY yen "\a165"><!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY brvbar "\a166"><!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sect "\a167"><!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY uml "\a168"><!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY copy "\a169"><!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordf "\a170"><!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY laquo "\a171"><!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY not "\a172"><!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY shy "\a173"><!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY reg "\a174"><!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY macr "\a175"><!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY deg "\a176"><!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY plusmn "\a177"><!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup2 "\a178"><!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup3 "\a179"><!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY acute "\a180"><!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY micro "\a181"><!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY para "\a182"><!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY middot "\a183"><!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY cedil "\a184"><!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY sup1 "\a185"><!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordm "\a186"><!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY raquo "\a187"><!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac14 "\a188"><!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac12 "\a189"><!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac34 "\a190"><!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY iquest "\a191"><!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Agrave "\a192"><!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aacute "\a193"><!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Acirc "\a194"><!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Atilde "\a195"><!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Auml "\a196"><!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aring "\a197"><!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY AElig "\a198"><!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ccedil "\a199"><!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Egrave "\a200"><!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Eacute "\a201"><!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ecirc "\a202"><!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Euml "\a203"><!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Igrave "\a204"><!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iacute "\a205"><!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Icirc "\a206"><!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iuml "\a207"><!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ETH "\a208"><!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ntilde "\a209"><!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ograve "\a210"><!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Oacute "\a211"><!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ocirc "\a212"><!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Otilde "\a213"><!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ouml "\a214"><!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY times "\a215"><!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Oslash "\a216"><!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ugrave "\a217"><!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uacute "\a218"><!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ucirc "\a219"><!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uuml "\a220"><!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Yacute "\a221"><!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY THORN "\a222"><!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY szlig "\a223"><!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY agrave "\a224"><!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aacute "\a225"><!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY acirc "\a226"><!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY atilde "\a227"><!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY auml "\a228"><!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aring "\a229"><!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aelig "\a230"><!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ccedil "\a231"><!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY egrave "\a232"><!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eacute "\a233"><!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ecirc "\a234"><!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY euml "\a235"><!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY igrave "\a236"><!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iacute "\a237"><!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY icirc "\a238"><!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iuml "\a239"><!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eth "\a240"><!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ntilde "\a241"><!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ograve "\a242"><!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY oacute "\a243"><!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ocirc "\a244"><!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY otilde "\a245"><!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ouml "\a246"><!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY divide "\a247"><!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY oslash "\a248"><!-- latin small letter o with stroke, = latin small letter o slash, U+00F8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ugrave "\a249"><!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uacute "\a250"><!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ucirc "\a251"><!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uuml "\a252"><!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yacute "\a253"><!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY thorn "\a254"><!-- latin small letter thorn, U+00FE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yuml "\a255"><!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: Special Characters :::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY ampersand "&"><!-- ampersand -->
-<!ENTITY lsquot "\a145"><!-- opening left quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rsquot "\a146"><!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY ldquot "\a147"><!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rdquot "\a148"><!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY minus "-"><!-- mathematical minus -->
-<!ENTITY endash "\a150"><!-- endash -->
-<!ENTITY emdash "\a151"><!-- emdash -->
-<!ENTITY ellips "\a133"><!-- ellipsis -->
-<!ENTITY lellips "\a133"><!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
-<!ENTITY blankline "_______"><!-- blank line to be filled in -->
-<!ENTITY percent "%"><!-- percent sign -->
-<!ENTITY thinspace "\a160"><!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks - added mainly for LaTeX's sake -->
-
-<!ENTITY bullet "\a149"><!-- bullet, only used in PML -->
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd" [
- <!ENTITY % general.links SYSTEM "genlink.mod">
- %general.links;
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.links SYSTEM "htmllink.mod">
- %xhtml.links;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.inclusions SYSTEM "geninc.mod">
- %general.inclusions;
-]>
-
-<gamebook xml:lang="en-UK" version="0.11">
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.13 2007/05/12 17:51:33 jonathan.blake
-minor footnote issues
-
-Revision 1.12 2007/05/11 23:28:05 jonathan.blake
-Fixed illustration dimensions
-
-Revision 1.11 2007/05/11 19:01:54 jonathan.blake
-Fixed small illustration references and dimensions.
-
-Revision 1.10 2007/05/10 23:24:50 jonathan.blake
-Final (I mean it this time) changes prior to republication
-
-Revision 1.9 2007/05/07 23:34:55 jonathan.blake
-minor illustration dimension fix
-
-Revision 1.8 2007/05/07 22:53:23 jonathan.blake
-special thanks, errata fixes, and fixing illustration dimensions
-
-Revision 1.7 2007/03/17 00:08:34 jonathan.blake
-Updating footnote markup
-
-Revision 1.6 2006/12/20 00:13:05 jonathan.blake
-Added text-only illustrations for RNT and CRT. Refined the text-only illustration for Action Chart.
-
-Revision 1.5 2006/12/06 23:23:20 jonathan.blake
-Correct publication date.
-
-Revision 1.4 2006/11/25 04:45:51 jonathan.blake
-Corrections for most pending errors, and modernization of markup.
-
-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
-Adding Paul Haskell as an Illustration Transcriptionist
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 00:37:35 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-Revision 1.15 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.14 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
-
-Revision 1.13 2002/12/04 06:20:29 jblake
-Cleanup.
-
-Revision 1.12 2002/11/17 04:22:21 jblake
-Fixed standardization issues.
-
-Revision 1.11 2002/11/14 17:42:48 jblake
-Corrected illustration dimensions, updated wording of
-footnotes, and changed some pending errata.
-
-Revision 1.10 2002/11/12 18:48:27 jblake
-Revision of illustration placement and fix of
-interbook links.
-
-Revision 1.9 2002/11/10 04:35:31 jblake
-Fixed issues with the markup of the illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.8 2002/10/27 00:57:43 jblake
-Fixed minor validity problems.
-
-Revision 1.7 2002/10/27 00:26:52 jblake
-jdougan - added secondary illustrations in front matter and text.
-Sizes standardized to 180x180 and need correction.
-
-Revision 1.6 2002/10/24 17:56:23 jblake
-Fixed a the previous log entry that made the comment end
-prematurely.
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/10/24 16:22:27 jblake
-Added an XML acknowledgement and corrected a misspelling: "Summerlund".
-
-Revision 1.4 2002/10/24 15:50:47 jblake
-Removed references to the Rules Clarifications - now obsolete.
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/10/24 15:23:49 jblake
-* Corrected lack of paragraphs in paragraphed lists
-* Renamed Section Clarifications to Footnotes and corrected
- the associated links
-* Indented the numbered sections
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/23 05:22:17 jblake
-Standardized the references to JC Alvarez.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:19:33 jblake
-Initial revision
-
--->
-
-<!--
-
-Todo:
-
-* Create alternate table of illustrations for Alvarez
-* so far, Alvarez illustrations included only in HTML
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Flight from the Dark</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.gary.chalk.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2007</year><month>5</month><day>11</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the sole survivor of a devastating attack on the monastery where you were learning the skills of the Kai Lords. You swear vengeance on the Darklords for the massacre of the Kai warriors, and with a sudden flash of insight you know what you must do. You must set off on a perilous journey to the capital city to warn the King of the terrible threat that faces his people: For you are now the last of the Kai you are now <strong>Lone Wolf</strong>.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
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- <p class="dedication">To Mel and Yin</p>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
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- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Ryan Landek</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Paul Haskell<br/>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (text illustrations and action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Michael Hahn (map)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Mark Laird (Sections 36<ch.endash/>70 and 281<ch.endash/>315)<br />Christian Leonhard (Sections 106<ch.endash/>140 and 211<ch.endash/>245)<br />Brad Phelps (Sections 176<ch.endash/>210)<br />Michael Richey (Sections 1<ch.endash/>35 and 316<ch.endash/>350)<br />Tyson Torres (Sections 71<ch.endash/>105, 141<ch.endash/>175 and 246<ch.endash/>280)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Kl<ch.ouml/>cker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Ingo Kl<ch.ouml/>cker</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Pedro Almeida, Tony Lenzo, Laurence O<ch.apos/>Toole</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
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- <p>In the northern land of Sommerlund, it has been the custom for many centuries to send the children of the Warrior Lords to the monastery of Kai. There they are taught the skills and disciplines of their noble fathers.</p>
- <p>The Kai monks are masters of their art, and the children in their charge love and respect them in spite of the hardships of their training. For one day when they have finally learnt the secret skills of the Kai, they will return to their homes equipped in mind and body to defend themselves against the constant threat of war from the Darklords of the west.</p>
- <p>In olden times, during the Age of the Black Moon, the Darklords waged war on Sommerlund. The conflict was a long and bitter trial of strength that ended in victory for the Sommlending at the great battle of Maakengorge. King Ulnar and the allies of Durenor broke the Darklord armies at the pass of Moytura and forced them back into the bottomless abyss of Maakengorge. Vashna, mightiest of the Darklords, was slain upon the sword of King Ulnar, called <quote>Sommerswerd</quote>, the sword of the sun. Since that age, the Darklords have vowed vengeance upon Sommerlund and the House of Ulnar.</p>
- <p>Now it is in the morning of the feast of Fehmarn, when all of the Kai Lords are present at the monastery for the celebrations. Suddenly a great black cloud comes from out of the western skies. So many are the numbers of the black-winged beasts that fill the sky, that the sun is completely hidden. The Darklords, ancient enemy of the Sommlending are attacking. War has begun.</p>
- <p>On this fateful morning, you, Silent Wolf (the name given to you by the Kai) have been sent to collect firewood in the forest as a punishment for your inattention in class. As you are preparing to return, you see to your horror a vast cloud of black leathery creatures swoop down and engulf the monastery.</p>
- <p>Dropping the wood, you race to the battle that has already begun. But in the unnatural dark, you stumble and strike your head on a low tree branch. As you lose consciousness, the last thing that you see in the poor light are the walls of the monastery crashing to the ground.</p>
- <p>Many hours pass before you awake. With tears in your eyes you now survey the scene of destruction. Raising your face to the clear sky, you swear vengeance on the Darklords for the massacre of the Kai warriors, and with a sudden flash of realization you know what you must do. You must set off on a perilous journey to the capital city to warn the King of the terrible threat that now faces his people. For you are now the last of the Kai<ch.emdash/>you are now the Lone Wolf.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="tssf.gif" width="386" height="300" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
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- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord you have developed fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points <!--ERRTAG-RE-12598-->fall to zero or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12598-->, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never go above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Disciplines</title>
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- <data>
- <p>Over the centuries, the Kai monks have mastered the skills of the warrior. These skills are known as the Kai Disciplines, and they are taught to all Kai Lords. You have learnt only five of the skills listed below. The choice of which five skills these are, is for you to make. As all of the Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your perilous quest, pick your five with care. The correct use of a Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your five Disciplines, enter them in the Kai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="camflage">
- <meta><title>Camouflage</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Kai Lord to blend in with his surroundings. In the countryside, he can hide undetected among trees and rocks and pass close to an enemy without being seen. In a town or city, it enables him to look and sound like a native of that area, and can help him to find shelter or a safe hiding place.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Camouflage</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="hunting">
- <meta><title>Hunting</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Lord will never starve in the wild. He will always be able to hunt for food for himself except in areas of wasteland and desert. The skill also enables a Kai Lord to be able to move stealthily when stalking his prey.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Hunting: no need for a Meal when instructed to eat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="sixthsns">
- <meta><title>Sixth Sense</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Lord of imminent danger. It may also reveal the true purpose of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tracking">
- <meta><title>Tracking</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to make the correct choice of a path in the wild, to discover the location of a person or object in a town or city and to read the secrets of footprints or tracks.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Tracking</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="healing">
- <meta><title>Healing</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline can be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in combat. If you possess this skill you may restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to your total for every numbered section of the book you pass through in which you are not involved in combat. (This is only to be used after your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) Remember that your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> cannot rise above its original level.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill write <quote>Healing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wepnskll">
- <meta><title>Weaponskill</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Kai monastery, each initiate is taught to master one type of weapon. If Weaponskill is to be one of your Kai Disciplines, pick a number in the usual way from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and then find the corresponding weapon from the list below. This is the weapon in which you have skill. When you enter combat carrying this weapon, you add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with a weapon does not mean you set out on the adventure carrying that particular weapon. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons in the course of your adventures. If you pick the axe, you are lucky enough to be skilled in the one weapon Lone Wolf is carrying from the start of the adventure. (Explained fully in the <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment section</a>.)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = Dagger</li>
- <li>1 = Spear</li>
- <li>2 = Mace</li>
- <li>3 = Short Sword</li>
- <li>4 = Warhammer</li>
- <li>5 = Sword</li>
- <li>6 = Axe</li>
- <li>7 = Sword</li>
- <li>8 = Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>9 = Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>You cannot carry more than 2 weapons. If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponskill in <ch.blankline/> +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points if this weapon carried</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindshld">
- <meta><title>Mindshield</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Darklords and many of the evil creatures in their command have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Kai Discipline of Mindshield prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindshield: no points lost when attacked by Mindblast</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mndblst">
- <meta><title>Mindblast</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This enables a Kai Lord to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used at the same time as normal combat weapons and adds two extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Not all the creatures encountered on this adventure will be harmed by Mindblast. You will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlknsp">
- <meta><title>Animal Kinship</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to communicate with some animals and to be able to guess the intentions of others.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindomtr">
- <meta><title>Mind Over Matter</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Discipline enables a Kai Lord to move small objects with his powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mind Over Matter</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 1 of Lone Wolf, you may add a further Kai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.02fotw;">Book 2</a>. This additional skill, together with your five other skills and any Special Items that you have picked up in Book 1, may then be used in the next adventure of the Lone Wolf series which is called <cite><a href="&link.02fotw;">Fire on the Water</a></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
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- <data>
- <p>You are dressed in the green tunic and cloak of a Kai initiate. You have little with you to arm yourself for survival.</p>
- <p>All you possess is an Axe (note under Weapons on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and a Backpack containing 1 Meal (note under Meals on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). Hanging from your waist is a leather pouch containing Gold Crowns. To find out how many, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. This number equals the number of Gold Crowns you possess at the start of the adventure. (Note the number in the Belt Pouch section of the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>You discover amongst the smoking ruins of the monastery, a <a idref="map">Map of Sommerlund</a> (note under Special Items on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) showing the capital city of Holmgard and the land of Durenor, far to the east. You place the <a idref="map">Map</a> inside your tunic for safety.</p>
- <p>You also find one of the following:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>1 = Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 = Helmet (Special Items). This adds 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="helmet.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="helmet.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>3 = Two Meals (Meals)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>4 = Chainmail Waistcoat (Special Items). This adds 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mail.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mail.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>5 = Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>6 = Healing Potion (Backpack Item). This can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total, when swallowed after combat You only have enough for one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>7 = Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>8 = Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>9 = 12 Gold Crowns (Belt Pouch)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="pouch.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="pouch.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>0 = Broadsword (Weapons)</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>To discover which of the above you find, you must pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and find the corresponding article on the list. Note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You don<ch.apos/>t need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>1 = Sword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>2 = Helmet<ch.emdash/>worn on the head.</li>
- <li>3 = Food<ch.emdash/>placed in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>4 = Chainmail Waistcoat<ch.emdash/>worn on the body.</li>
- <li>5 = Mace<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>6 = Healing Potion<ch.emdash/>carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>7 = Quarterstaff<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>8 = Spear<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>9 = Gold Crowns<ch.emdash/>carried in the Belt Pouch.</li>
- <li>0 = Broadsword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill and the correct weapon, it adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember you can only carry two weapons at once.)</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry eight items in your Backpack at once.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>The local currency is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Gold Crowns can be used on your adventure to pay for transport, food or even as a bribe! Many of the creatures that you will encounter possess Gold Crowns, or have them hidden in their lairs. Whenever you kill a creature, you may take any Gold Crowns that it has and put them in your Belt Pouch.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Kai Discipline of Hunting as one of your five skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</dd>
- <dt>Healing Potion</dt>
- <dd>This can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is only enough for one dose. If you discover any other potions during the adventure, you will be told then of their effect. All Healing Potions are Backpack Items.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions on your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows.</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Kai Disciplines to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is ambushed by a Winged Devil (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but must stand and fight as the creature swoops down on him. Lone Wolf has the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 17.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Winged Devil<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.minus/>3 (17 <ch.minus/> 20 = <ch.minus/>3). <ch.minus/>3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and Winged Devil has been established as -3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- <li>Winged Devil loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are bestowed upon Kai Lords at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf series, you will gain an additional Kai Discipline and gradually progress towards mastery of the ten basic Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Novice</li>
- <li>Intuite</li>
- <li>Doan</li>
- <li>Acolyte</li>
- <li>Initiate<ch.emdash/>You begin the Lone Wolf adventures with this level of Kai training</li>
- <li>Aspirant</li>
- <li>Guardian</li>
- <li>Warmarn or Journeyman</li>
- <li>Savant</li>
- <li>Master</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Beyond the ten basic skills of the Kai Master await the secrets of the higher Kai Disciplines or <quote>Magnakai</quote>. By acquiring the wisdom of the Magnakai, a Kai Lord can progress towards the ultimate achievement and become a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission will be one of great danger, for the Darklords and their servants are a cruel and fierce enemy who give and expect no mercy. Use the <a idref="map">map</a> to help you steer a correct course for the capital. Make notes as you progress through the story, for they will be of great help in future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will aid you during the adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>There are many routes to the King, but only one involves a minimum of danger. With a wise choice of Kai Disciplines and a great deal of courage, any player should be able to complete the mission, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> or <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <p>The honour and memory of the Kai Lords will go with you on your perilous journey.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must make haste for you sense it is not safe to linger by the smoking remains of the ruined monastery. The black-winged beasts could return at any moment. You must set out for the Sommlending capital of Holmgard and tell the King the terrible news of the massacre: that the whole <ch.eacute/>lite of Kai warriors, save yourself, have been slaughtered. Without the Kai Lords to lead her armies, Sommerlund will be at the mercy of their ancient enemy, the Darklords.</p>
- <p>Fighting back tears, you bid farewell to your dead kinsmen. Silently, you promise that their deaths will be avenged. You turn away from the ruins and carefully descend the steep track.</p>
- <p>At the foot of the hill, the path splits into two directions, both leading into a large wood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to use your Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to take the right path into the wood, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to follow the left track, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you dash through the thickening trees, the shouts of the Giaks begin to fade behind you. You have nearly outdistanced them completely, when you crash headlong into a tangle of low branches.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you have picked a number 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you have picked a number 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staying close to the officer, you follow him through an arched portal and up a short flight of stairs to a long hall. Soldiers run back and forth bearing orders on ornate scrolls to officers stationed around the city wall.</p>
- <p>A haggard and scar-faced man dressed in the white and purple robes of the King<ch.apos/>s court approaches you and bids you follow him to the citadel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to follow this man, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to decline his offer and return to the crowded streets, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a small one-man canoe in very poor condition. The wood has split and warped, and the craft appears to be leaking in several places. You quickly patch up the worst of the holes with some clay and bail out the water. This seems to stop the leaking for the moment. Stowing your equipment at the bow, you set off downstream, using a piece of driftwood as a paddle.</p>
- <p>After a short while, you hear the sound of horses galloping towards you along the left bank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to hide in the bottom of the canoe, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to try to attract their attention, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After about an hour of walking, the track slowly bears round to the east. You reach a shallow ford where a fast-flowing brook runs on a steep rocky course towards the south. Just beyond the ford is a junction where the track meets a wider path running north to south. Realizing that the north path will take you away from the capital, you turn right at the junction and head south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the distance you can hear the sound of horses galloping nearer. You crouch behind a tree and wait as the riders come closer. They are the cavalry of the King<ch.apos/>s Guard wearing the white uniforms of His Majesty<ch.apos/>s army.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="228" width="320" src="6.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="323" height="191" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to call them, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you wish to let them pass and then continue on your way through the forest, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For what seems an eternity, the rush of the crowd carries you along like a leaf on a fast-flowing stream. You desperately fight to stay on your feet, but you feel weak and dizzy from your ordeal, and your legs are as heavy as lead. Suddenly, you catch a glimpse of a long, narrow stone stairway that leads up to the roof of an inn.</p>
- <p>Gathering the last reserves of your strength, you dive for the stairs and climb slowly up to the top. From here you can see the magnificent view of the rooftops and spires of Holmgard, with the high stone walls of the citadel gleaming in the sun.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>From here you can see the magnificent view<br />of the rooftops and spires of Holmgard</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The houses and buildings of the capital are built very close to each other, and it is possible to jump from one roof to the next. In fact many of the citizens of Holmgard used to use the <quote>Roofways</quote> (as they are known) when the heavy autumn rains made the unpaved parts of the streets too muddy for walking. But after many accidents, a royal decree forbade their use.</p>
- <p>After careful thought, you decide to use the <quote>Roofways</quote>, as they are your only chance of reaching the King. You have hopped, skipped and jumped across several streets and you are only one street away from the citadel when you come to the end of a row of rooftops.</p>
- <p>The jump to the next row is much further than anything you have tried before, and your stomach begins to feel as if it were full of butterflies. Determined to reach the citadel, you turn and take a long run-up to the jump. With blood pounding in your ears, you sprint to the edge of the roof and leap into space, your eyes fixed on the opposite rooftop.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have picked a number that is 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If the number if 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Sixth Sense warns there is a fierce battle raging in the south. Your common sense tells you that the south is also the quickest route to the capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text> and choose your route.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cannot move: you are being held rigid by some powerful force. Your eyes are drawn towards the mouth of the skeleton. From deep in the earth you hear a low humming, like the sound of millions of angry bees. A dull red glow appears in the empty eye sockets of the dead King and the humming increases until your ears are filled with the deafening roar. You are in the presence of an ancient evil, far older and stronger than the Darklords themselves.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you possess a Vordak Gem, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are sweating and your legs ache. In the middle distance you can see a group of cottages.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to enter a cottage and rest for a while, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to press on, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly dodge into the doorway of a stable and hide your surgeon<ch.apos/>s cloak in the straw, for it would be better to be seen as a Kai Lord than as a charlatan.</p>
- <p>Without wasting a second, you set off towards the Great Hall on the other side of the courtyard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodyguard looks at you with great suspicion and then slams the door shut. You can hear the sound of voices inside the caravan. Suddenly the door swings open and the face of a wealthy merchant appears.</p>
- <p>He demands 10 Gold Crowns as payment for the ride.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you have 10 Gold Crowns and wish to pay him, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you do not have enough Gold Crowns or do not wish to pay him, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path soon ends at a large clearing. In the centre of the clearing is a tree much taller and wider than any others you have seen in the forest.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Looking up through the massive branches you can see a large treehouse some twenty-five to thirty feet above the ground. There is no ladder, but the gnarled bark of the tree offers many footholds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to climb the tree and search the treehouse, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you would rather press on, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the top of a small wooded hill on which several large boulders form a rough circle. Suddenly you hear a loud growl from behind a rock to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to draw your weapon and prepare to fight, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you would rather take evasive action by running as fast as you can over the hill, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through a long, dark tunnel of overhanging branches that eventually opens out into a large clearing. On a stone plinth in the centre of the clearing is a Sword, sheathed in a black leather scabbard. A handwritten note has been tied to the hilt, but it is in a language which is foreign to you.</p>
- <p>You may take the Sword if you wish, and note it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>There are three exits from the clearing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you decide to go east, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you decide to go west, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you decide to go south, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to free a horse from the straps securing it to the caravan. It is frightened by the scent of the approaching Doomwolves, and the cries of their evil riders<ch.emdash/>the Giaks.</p>
- <p>Preparing your weapon, you spur your skittish horse towards the oncoming beasts. They are less than fifty yards away and they are lowering their lances at you as they get nearer and nearer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">You are charging head-on towards each other. <link-text>Turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon to strike at the beast as its razor-fanged mouth snaps shut just inches from your head. Buffeted by the beating of its wings you find it difficult to stand.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="17.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Deduct 1 point from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight the Kraan.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kraan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you kill the creature, you quickly descend the far side of the hill to avoid the Giaks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you pick 0, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you pick 1<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you pick 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken by the sound of troops in the distance. Across the lake you see the black-cloaked figures of Drakkarim and a pack of Doomwolves and their riders. A Kraan appears from above the trees and lands on the roof of the small wooden shack.</p>
- <p>It is ridden by a creature dressed in red. The Kraan takes off and begins to fly across the lake to where you are hidden.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to ride deeper in the forest, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to fight the creature, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just ahead through the tall trees you can see clumps of dark-red gallowbrush, a thorny briar with sharp crimson barbs. The common name for this forest weed is <quote>Sleeptooth</quote>, for the thorns are very sharp and can make you feel weak and sleepy if they scratch your skin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">You can avoid the Sleeptooth by returning to the track. <link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">Or you can push on through the briars, deeper into the forest, by <link-text>turning to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It seems that whoever lived here left in a great hurry<ch.emdash/>and they must have left quite recently. A half-eaten meal still remains on the table, and a mug of dark jala is still warm to the touch.</p>
- <p>Searching a chest and small wardrobe, you find a Backpack, food (enough for two Meals), and a Dagger.</p>
- <p>If you wish to take these items, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You continue your mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden about two miles into the tangle of trees when the ground becomes very marshy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">If it is below 5, your horse has suddenly plunged into thick mud up to its belly. If the number is 5 or above, you manage to steer clear of the morass and may now <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you are stuck, pick another number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If this time the number is 7 or less, the mud engulfs you up to your armpits. Your horse gives one last despairing scream as its muzzle disappears into the bubbling mud. If you scored above 7, you drag yourself on to firm ground and <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If not, then this is your last chance! If you pick any number except a 9, the foul-smelling bog sucks you under and claims another victim. Your life and your mission end here. But if you have picked a 9, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Knocking aside the leader, you sprint off along the highway. Then behind you the ominous click of a crossbow being cocked sends a shiver down your spine.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you have picked a number 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you have picked a number 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor soon widens into a large hall. At the far end, a stone staircase leads up to a huge door. Two black candles on either side of the stone steps dimly illuminate the chamber. You notice that no wax has melted, and as you get nearer you can feel that they give off no heat. Ancient engravings cover the stone surfaces of the walls.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>An ornate pin appears to lock the door, but<br />there is also a keyhole in the lockplate</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="714" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="714" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Anxious to leave this evil tomb, you examine the door for a latch. An ornate pin appears to lock the door, but there is also a keyhole in the lockplate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you have a Golden Key and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to remove the pin, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The merchant shouts to the driver of the caravan to jump. <quote>We<ch.apos/>re under attack!</quote> he cries, disappearing through a circular window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you decide to jump after him, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you decide to run through the caravan and grab the reins of the horse team, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with such a crash on the opposite roof, that the wind is knocked out of you and you lie flat on your back with your head in a spin.</p>
- <p>It takes a minute or so for you to realize that you<ch.apos/>ve made it and are perfectly safe. When you are sure you are all right, you jump up and let out a shout for joy at your skill and daring.</p>
- <p>Quickly you find a way across the roof and climb down a long drainpipe to the street below. You see the large iron doors of the citadel open, and a wagon drawn by two large horses tries to leave. The horses are frightened by the noisy crowd and they both rear up, causing the wagon to smash a front wheel against the door. In the confusion, you see a chance to enter and quickly slip inside just as the guards slam the doors shut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you move along the corridor until you come to a sharp eastward turn. A strange greenish light can be seen in the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you wish to continue, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to go back and try the southern route, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along this path for over an hour, carefully watching the sky above you in case the Kraan attack again. Up ahead, a large tree has fallen across the path. As you approach, you can hear voices coming from the other side of the massive trunk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you choose to attack, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you choose to listen to what the voices say, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few hundred yards, the path joins another one running north to south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to go northwards, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to head south, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stride out to the water<ch.apos/>s edge and prepare yourself for combat. The Kraan and its rider spot you and begin to speed across the lake barely inches above the surface.</p>
- <p>The rider lets out a scream that freezes your blood. He is a Vordak, a fierce lieutenant of the Darklords.</p>
- <p>He is upon you and you must fight him. Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, for the creature is attacking you with its Mindforce as well as with a huge black mace.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The people look tired and hungry. They have come many miles from their burning city. Suddenly, you hear the beat of huge wings coming from the north.</p>
- <p><quote>Kraan, Kraan! Hide yourselves!</quote> the cry goes up all along the road.</p>
- <p>Just in front of you, a wagon carrying small children breaks down, its right wheel jammed in a furrow. The children scream in panic.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="271" width="386" src="30.gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to help the children, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you<ch.apos/>d rather run for the cover of the trees, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to comfort the injured man as best you can, but his wounds are serious and he is soon unconscious again. Covering him with his cape, you turn and press deeper into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden about three miles when, in the distance, you spot the unmistakable silhouette of five large Doomwolves. Riding on their backs are Giaks. They seem to be going on ahead to where the path leads down into an open meadow. Suddenly, one of the Giaks leaves the others and begins to ride back along the path towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to hide in the undergrowth and let him pass, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to fight him, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The floor of the cave is quite dry and dusty. As you explore deeper in the half-light, you detect the stale odour of rotting flesh. Littering a crevice are the bones, fur and teeth of several small animals. You notice a small cloth bag among these remains which you open to discover 3 Gold Crowns. Pocketing these coins, you leave what appears to be the lair of a mountain cat and carefully descend the hill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without warning, a terrible apparition in red robes swoops down from the sky on the back of a Kraan. Its cry freezes your blood. The beast is a Vordak, a fierce lieutenant of the Darklords.</p>
- <p>He is above you and you must fight him.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A terrible apparition in red robes swoops down<br />from the sky on the back of a Kraan</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="691" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="691" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, for the creature is attacking you with the power of its Mindforce as well as with a huge black mace.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you win, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The forest is becoming denser, and the path more tangled with thorny briars. Almost completely hidden by the undergrowth, you notice another path branching off towards the east. Your current route seems to be coming to a prickly end, so you decide to follow the new path eastwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old watchtower ladder is rotten and several rungs break as you climb. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If the number is 4 or lower, you have fallen. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If the number is 5 or higher, you do not fall. <link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are feeling tired and hungry and you must stop to eat. After your Meal, you retrace your steps back to the citadel and begin to walk around the high, indomitable stone wall.</p>
- <p>You discover another entrance on the eastern side, guarded as before by two armoured soldiers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to approach them and tell your story, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For half an hour or more you press on through the forest, through the rich vegetation and ferns. You happen upon a small clear stream where you stop for a few minutes to wash your face and drink of the cold, fresh water.</p>
- <p>Feeling revitalized, you cross the stream and press on. You soon notice the smell of wood smoke which seems to be drifting towards you from the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to investigate the smell of wood smoke, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you would rather avoid the source of this smoke, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few seconds, two small furry faces nervously appear over the top of the trunk. They say they are Kakarmi and tell you that the Kraan are everywhere. To the west lie the remains of their village but little is left of it now. They are trying to find the rest of their tribe who took to the forest when the <quote>Black-wings</quote> attacked. They point behind them<ch.emdash/>east along the path<ch.emdash/>and tell you that the trail appears to be a dead end, but that if you continue through the undergrowth for a few yards more, you will find a watchtower where the path splits into three directions. Take the east path. This leads to the King<ch.apos/>s highway between the capital city<ch.emdash/>Holmgard<ch.emdash/>and the northern port of Toran.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="316" height="145" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="316" height="145" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You thank the Kakarmi, and bid them farewell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Keeping a careful watch on the huts for any sign of the enemy, you make your way around the clearing under the cover of the trees and bracken. Rejoining the track, you hurry away from Fogwood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Three rangers gallop past the river bank, closely followed by the Giaks on their snarling Doomwolves.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="533" width="386" src="41.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The Giak leader orders five of his troops<br />to open fire at you with their bows</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="694" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="694" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The bank is steep and you are spotted by the Giak leader who orders five of his troops to open fire at you with their bows. Their black arrows rain down on you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you decide to paddle downstream as fast as you can, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you decide to head for the cover of the trees on the opposite bank, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the track for nearly an hour when you come to a crossroads.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you wish to continue east, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you would rather head north, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you decide to venture south, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">Or if you prefer to go west, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From behind the rock a huge black bear comes into view. It advances slowly towards you, its mouth open and its face lined in anger and pain.</p>
- <p>You notice that it is badly wounded and is bleeding from its neck and back. You must fight it.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Black Bear</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you win, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">After three rounds of combat, you position yourself so that you can run down the hill. If you wish to evade at this time then <link-text>turn to 106</link-text> and chance being wounded as you flee.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without warning, the old track ends abruptly at the edge of a steep slope. The ground here is very loose and unstable. You lose your footing and fall headlong over the edge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you have picked a number that is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>These men are not what they seem. The tunic of the leader is genuine but it is heavily bloodstained around the collar, as if its true owner had been murdered. Their weapons are not army issue, but expensive and lavishly decorated like the weapons made by the armourers of Durenor.</p>
- <p>The leader has a crossbow slung over his pack. An attempt to run would be suicide. You decide that you must fight them or you will surely be murdered as soon as you drop your weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered about two miles when the trees ahead thin out. You can see a small wooden shack on the edge of a lake. A cloaked man approaches you and offers to row you and your horse across the lake for a fee of 2 Gold Crowns.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you accept the offer, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you refuse and try to ride around the lake, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless and sweating, you claw your way towards the summit of the hill. Suddenly, a large winged shadow passes across the hillside. You look up to see a Kraan circling the peak above. Behind you the Giaks are gaining ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">Do you stand and fight the Giaks where you are, using the high ground to your advantage? If so, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">Or do you grit your teeth and press on towards the peak of the hill? <link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Sixth Sense warns you that these troops are not all they seem. You can detect an aura of evil about them. They are in the service of the Darklords.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">You must leave here quickly before you are spotted. <link-text>Turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you begin to read the inscription, you notice a shadow moving towards you from behind the screen.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you have chosen a number that is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of fighting can be heard in the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to continue towards the sound of battle, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to avoid the fighting, change direction and <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the wooded bank of the river and see the log walls of the fieldworks disappearing into the distance.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The log wall has collapsed in several places<br />where the Darklords are attacking</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="673" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="673" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A battle rages about two miles away and the log wall has collapsed in several places where the Darklords are attacking.</p>
- <p>Most of the fieldworks ahead are unmanned, the soldiers having left to supply reinforcements for the raging battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">There is a gate in the log wall. If you wish to approach it, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you would prefer to climb over the wall instead, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you are closer, you can make out that the voices are not human. The sound is more like a kind of grunting and squeaking.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If not, you must climb over the tree and face whatever lurks on the other side. <link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A searing pain tears through your right leg as it is twisted and crushed by the weight of your body. Down and down you tumble, until you finally land in a ditch at the base of the hill with such force that the wind is knocked out of you and you lose consciousness.</p>
- <p>You are awoken by the sharp pain of something stabbing your chest. It proves to be the tip of a Giak spear. You are greeted by the malicious sneer of its owner as he pins your left arm to the ground. Instinctively you reach for your weapon but it is no longer there.</p>
- <p>Defenceless against the cruel Giaks, the last thing that you see before all light fades is the jagged point of a Giak lance hurtling down towards your throat.</p>
- <p>Your mission ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It would seem that the heavens have not heard your prayers. A spear whistles past your head and embeds itself in the neck of your galloping horse. With a shriek of pain, the horse topples forward and you both roll in a tangled heap on the highway.</p>
- <p>Dazed and pinned down by the weight of the dead body of your horse, the last thing you remember are the sharp penetrating spearheads of the Giak lances.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your mission.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just as the Giak makes his leap, you race forward and strike out with your weapon<ch.emdash/>knocking the creature away from the young wizard<ch.apos/>s back.</p>
- <p>You jump onto the struggling Giak and strike again. Due to the surprise of your attack, add 4 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight but remember to deduct it again as soon as the fight is over.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">9</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you win, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the scream of a large winged beast above the trees. It is a Kraan, a deadly servant of the Darklords. Quickly you hide beneath the thick fronds of fern until the horrible shrieks have passed away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">Now <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cabin has only one room. In it you see a wooden table and two benches, a large bed made of straw bales lashed together, several bottles of coloured liquids and an embroidered rug in the centre of the floor.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="322" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you choose to take a closer look at the bottles, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you choose to pull back the rug, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you choose to leave the room and investigate the stable, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bracing yourself for the run, you head off down the ridge at a steady pace. To the west, the army of the Darklords looks like a giant pot of black ink that has been spilled between the mountains and is spreading into the land below.</p>
- <p>You have been running for twenty minutes when you catch sight of a pack of Doomwolves lining a shallow ridge to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you decide to flatten yourself against the rocks along the side of the road and wait until they pass, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you decide to carry on running, but draw your weapon just in case they attack, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Peering into the darkness, you notice that rough stairs have been cut into the earth and that the mouth of the cave is in fact the entrance to a tunnel.</p>
- <p>Carefully descending the slippery stairway, you notice a small silver box on a shelf at the bottom of the staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you want to open the silver box, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to return to the surface and press on, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to investigate the tunnel further, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The last thing you remember before darkness engulfs you is the flash of a long curved steel knife. You have become yet another victim of the Sage and his robber son<ch.emdash/>the very one who has just slit your throat!</p>
- <p>Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At last you can reach the wooden fieldworks surrounding the outer city. As you race towards a sentry post, you can hear the excited shouts of the guards cheering you on. Thank the gods that they recognize you, for you must appear a ragged and suspicious figure. Your cloak is torn and hangs in tatters, your face is scratched and blood-smeared and the dust of the Graveyard covers you from head to toe.</p>
- <p>Splashing through a shallow stream, you stagger towards the gate. The full horror of the Graveyard encounter begins to catch up with you. The last thing you recall before exhaustion robs you of consciousness, is falling into the outstretched arms of two soldiers who have run from the fieldworks to help you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The <quote>soldiers</quote> lie dead at your feet. They were bandits who were stealing from the refugees of Toran, and from the abandoned houses and farms in the area.</p>
- <p>Searching their bodies you find 28 Gold Crowns and two Backpacks containing enough food for 3 Meals. They had been armed with a crossbow and three Swords. The crossbow has been damaged in the fight, but the Swords are untouched and you may keep one if you wish.</p>
- <p>You adjust your equipment, give a cautious glance towards the west and continue your run towards the outer defences of the capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wild old man is screaming at you. He blames you for the war and curses the Kai Lords as agents of the Darklords. He will not listen to reason and you must fight him.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="63.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The wild old man is screaming at you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="681" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="681" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Madman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you win, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken by the cries of a Kraan circling above the caravan. It is early morning and the sky is clear and bright. You can see a pack of Doomwolves less than a quarter of a mile away along the highway ahead. They are preparing to attack. You must act quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you decide to gather your equipment and run for the cover of the trees, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you decide to cut free one of the horses and try to break through the attacking Doomwolves to the clear road beyond, then <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses scream at you that this place is very evil. Leave as quickly as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Startled, you turn around to see a burly sergeant and two soldiers running towards you, their swords drawn as if to strike.</p>
- <p>You prepare to defend yourself for it looks as if they are about to attack first and ask questions later; but suddenly the sergeant calls his men to a halt. He has recognized your cloak. They put away their weapons and apologize many times for their mistake. The sergeant orders one of the men to fetch the captain of the Guard as he leads you to the doors of the Great Hall.</p>
- <p>You are greeted by a tall and handsome warrior who listens intently to your story. When you have finished the account of your perilous journey to the capital, you notice a tear in the brave man<ch.apos/>s eye as he bids you to follow him. You walk through the splendid halls and corridors of the inner Palace. The richness and grandeur are a wonder to behold. You eventually arrive at a large carved door, guarded by two soldiers wearing silver armour.</p>
- <p>You are about to meet the King.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Discipline of Tracking reveals to you fresh paw prints leading off along the south path.</p>
- <p>They are the prints of a black bear, an animal renowned for its ferocity. You decide the east path would be a much safer route.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a short walk, you reach a junction where a path crosses your present route heading from west to east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to turn west, <link-text>go to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to head east, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are very near a friendly village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">Avoid the gallowbrush and <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have reached a small bridge. A track follows the stream towards the east. A much narrower path disappears into thick forest towards the south.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you wish to go east, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to go south, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are winded but not hurt. You have fallen fifteen feet or so through the roof of an underground tomb. The walls are sheer and you cannot climb them. An arched tunnel leads out of the tomb towards the east, in front of which lies the sarcophagus of some ancient noble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to open the sarcophagus to see if it contains any treasure, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to leave via the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn to face a sneering Giak and the razor-fanged jaws of its mount. You must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak + Doomwolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you win, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pulling your green cloak about you, you blend into the foliage and rocks. Peering carefully up at the track, you are shocked to see that they are not the King<ch.apos/>s men at all.</p>
- <p>They are Drakkarim, some of the Darklords cruellest troops. They must have disguised themselves as soldiers of the King in order to get this far into the forest. Thanking your Kai training for saving your life, you silently slip away from the stream and push on into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243"><link-text>Turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kraan and its riders land on the track barely ten feet from where you are hidden.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="74.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The Giaks leap from the scaly backs of the Kraan and move towards you, their spears raised to strike. You have been seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you decide to fight them, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you decide to run deeper into the forest without delay, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Peering out carefully, you can see three green-clad men on horses racing along the bank. You recognize them as <!--ERRTAG-RE-93708-->Border Rangers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93708-->, the regiment of the King<ch.apos/>s Army that police the western borders. One of them is wounded and is slumped over the neck of his horse.</p>
- <p>Close behind follow a pack of twenty Doomwolves. Their Giak riders are firing arrows at the rangers which fall all around them. One ranger drops from his horse and rolls down the river bank, a black arrow deeply embedded in his right leg.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to help the ranger, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to stay hidden and drift downstream, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect76-1-foot" idref="sect76-1">
- <p>Record this item as a Vordak Gem. Though the text says you originally keep it in your jacket pocket, this is a temporary place to keep it before stowing it in your Backpack. It is not a Special Item. (cf. <a idref="sect304">Section 304</a>)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Gem feels very hot and burns your hand. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You quickly grab it with the edge of your cloak and slip it into the pocket of your jacket.<footref id="sect76-1" idref="sect76-1-foot"/> A Gem that size must be worth hundreds of Crowns! You smile at your good fortune, mount your horse and ride off along the south track.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect118"><link-text>Turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Mountain Giaks are unaccustomed to pursuing their prey through forests and you soon outdistance them, until finally the sound of their grunts and curses disappears completely.</p>
- <p>When you are satisfied that they have given up the chase, you stop for a few minutes to catch your breath and check your equipment. With the memory of your ruined monastery still blazing in your mind, you gather up your meagre belongings and push on.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19"><link-text>Turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the caravan careers past, you leap for the tailboard and manage to hold fast. Pulling yourself upright, you find that you are standing on the bottom rung of a ladder leading to the rear door of the wagon. Suddenly the top half of the door flies open and you are confronted by the angry face of a bodyguard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you decide to inform him that you are a Kai Lord with an urgent message for the King, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you decide to offer him Gold Crowns for safe passage to the capital, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you decide to attack the guard with your weapon, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to a small footbridge across a fast-flowing stream. On the other side of the bridge the path turns south. You cross the bridge and follow the path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stumble backwards through the front door, clutching your burnt chest with both hands. Smoke is billowing from the shop and you must run<ch.emdash/>before the Sage or his robber son catch you.</p>
- <p>You make it back to the main street and lose yourself in the rush of the crowds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After nearly an hour, the Kraan and their cruel riders vanish towards the west. As the shocked refugees start to emerge from the woods, you can hear the sound of horses in the distance galloping nearer. You stay hidden and wait as the riders come closer. They are the cavalry of the King<ch.apos/>s Guard wearing the white uniforms of His Majesty<ch.apos/>s army.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="228" width="320" src="6.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to call to them, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you would rather continue along the forest edge towards the south, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The giant Gourgaz lies dead at your feet. His evil followers hiss at you and then fall back from the bridge. The Prince<ch.apos/>s soldiers form a protective wall around you and their dying leader with their shields. Black arrows whistle past your head.</p>
- <p>The dying Prince looks up into your eyes and says, <quote>Kai Lord, you must take a message to my father. The enemy is too strong, we cannot hold him. The King must seek that which is in Durenor or all is lost. Take my horse and ride for the capital. May the luck of the gods ride with you.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="82.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You bid a sad farewell to the Prince, mount his white steed and head south along the forest path. The battle still rages behind you as the Prince<ch.apos/>s men fight off another assault on the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have run about a mile when three soldiers appear from beneath a small footbridge. They demand that you halt and drop your weapons and equipment.</p>
- <p>They are bloodstained and unshaven. Their leader is wearing the tunic of a soldier of the Toran garrison.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to do as they say, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to prepare to fight them, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you demand to know what they want, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just as you feel the air beating on your back, you slip free of your horse and roll over<ch.emdash/>landing with a splash in a muddy ditch by the side of the highway.</p>
- <p>You are uninjured, and you quickly scramble to your feet and make a dash for the cover of the trees<ch.emdash/>but with thirty yards left to run, you see the Kraan circling above for another dive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path is wide and leads straight into thick undergrowth. The trees are tall here and unusually quiet. You walk for over a mile when suddenly you hear the beating of large wings directly above you. Looking up, you are shocked to see the sinister black outline of a Kraan diving to attack you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you draw your weapon and prepare to fight, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you evade the attack by running south, deeper into the forest, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach another crossroads.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to journey east, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to head north, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you prefer to go south, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect42">Or if you wish to turn west, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Focusing your powers on the lock, you try to visualize the inner mechanism. Gradually its image appears in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye. It is old and corroded but it still functions. You are in danger of losing your concentration when a subtle click confirms that your effort has not been in vain.</p>
- <p>The pin is an easier task. Slowly it rises out of the lock and falls to the floor. The granite door swings towards you on hidden hinges and the grey half-light of the Graveyard floods into the tomb. The exit is overgrown with graveweed and you suffer many small cuts to your face and hands as you fight your way through to the surface. You are startled by a sudden noise. You turn to see the disembodied head of a corpse laughing at you.</p>
- <p>In blind panic, you race through the eerie necropolis towards the southern gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cautiously peer around the rock to see a soldier lying on his back. By his side is a Spear and shield. On the shield is the painting of a white pegasus<ch.emdash/>the Prince of Sommerlund<ch.apos/>s emblem. He is one of the Prince<ch.apos/>s soldiers, and he is only just conscious. His uniform is badly torn, and you can see that he has a deep wound in his left arm. As you move nearer, his eyes flicker open. <quote>Heal me, my Lord,</quote> he begs. <quote>I can barely feel my arm.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you possess and wish to use the Kai Discipline of Healing on this man, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you do not possess the skill, or do not want to use it, then <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a cloud of dust and loose rocks you career down the steep hillside. The Kraan is still circling above as if waiting to direct the Giaks after you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you have picked 0<ch.endash/>1, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If it is 2<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night falls and you are soon engulfed in total darkness. To press on would be useless, for you would be sure to lose your way. Tethering your horse to a tree, you pull your green Kai cloak about you and fall into a restless sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The small shop is dark and musty. Books and bottles of every size and colour fill the many shelves. As you close the door, a small black dog begins to yap at you. A bald man appears from behind a large screen and bids you welcome. He politely enquires as to the nature of your visit and offers you a choice of his wares from the glass counter.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="91.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to look at his wares, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you would rather decline his offer and return to the street, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive for cover not a moment too soon, for a hail of black arrows scream out of the woods and bombard the area where you were standing seconds before. Pulling your cloak around you to blend into the dense bracken, you dash through the forest and away from the hidden ambushers as fast as possible. This entire area is infested by Giaks and you must escape as quickly as you can. You run without rest for over an hour until you happen to fall upon a straight forest path heading towards the east. You follow the path, taking care to keep watch for signs of the enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13"><link-text>Turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run for the stairs just as a large block falls with a crash behind you. The room you were in has been completely sealed off. As you escape into the daylight, you glimpse behind you the crooked figure of an old druid as he raises his staff. A second later, a bolt of lightning explodes at your feet. You do not stop but run headlong down the hill, cursing the delay but thankful for your Sixth Sense.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Sage, seeing that you have killed his son, turns and runs from the shop by a back door.</p>
- <p>You find 12 Gold Crowns in the robber<ch.apos/>s purse and another 4 Gold Crowns in a wooden box under the counter. Carefully examining the potions and the wand you soon realize that they are all cheap counterfeits. In fact the entire shop is full of imitations. You shake your head and return to the main street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon stumble upon a narrow forest track running from north to south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to set off along the track towards the north, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to go south instead, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding your breath, you tighten your grip on your weapon and prepare to strike. The tension is unbearable<ch.emdash/>the Giaks are so close that the foul stench of their unwashed bodies fills your nostrils. You hear them curse in their strange alien tongue and then leave the ledge and start to scramble towards the peak. When you are sure they have gone, you finally exhale and wipe the sweat from your eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to explore the cave further, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to leave the cave and descend the hill in case the Giaks return, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahead of you, you can see a fierce battle raging across a stone bridge. The clash of steel and the cries of men and beasts echo through the forest. In the midst of the fighting, you see Prince Pelathar, the King<ch.apos/>s son. He is in combat with a large grey Gourgaz who is wielding a black axe above his scaly head. Suddenly, the Prince falls wounded<ch.emdash/>a black arrow in his side.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="97.gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The clash of steel and the cries of men<br />and beasts echo through the forest</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="692" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="692" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you wish to defend the fallen Prince, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to run into the forest, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards seem to believe your story and bow with respect to your rank of Kai Lord. One of them pulls a concealed bell-rope and the huge doors start to swing open. They usher you inside and you hear the doors close behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive into the undergrowth just as the beast screams past your head. You quickly look back to see the Kraan turning in the air in preparation for another dive. You scramble to your feet and run deeper into the safety of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cold corridor suddenly makes an abrupt turning towards the east. You notice a greenish glow that lights the tunnel in the far distance. As you creep nearer you can see that the corridor opens out into a larger chamber.</p>
- <p>The strange light seems to emanate from a large bowl resting upon the top of a granite throne. On a plinth in front of the throne stands a statue. It looks like a winged serpent curved in the shape of an <quote>S</quote>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="100.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to sit on the throne, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you wish to examine the statue, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to look for an exit from this chamber, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The noise of battle soon fades behind you but the ensuing silence is broken by a voice in your head that accuses you of being a coward, and deserting a fellow human in danger. You try to rid yourself of your nagging conscience by telling yourself that your mission is far more important, and that not only is the life of the young magician in peril but the lives of all your countrymen depend on you reaching the capital alive.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the sight of a Giak war party in the distance makes you quickly take cover and hide. But it is too late<ch.emdash/>they have spotted you and you must run as fast as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you descend the rocky slope towards the Graveyard of the Ancients, you are aware of a strange mist and cloud that swirls all around this grey and forbidding place, blocking the sun and covering the Graveyard in a perpetual gloom. A chill creeps forward to greet your approach.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="102.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>With a feeling of deep dread, you enter the eerie necropolis.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The overgrown path leads to a junction where another track branches off towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to take this path, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you would rather continue towards the northeast, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The walls are dank and slimy. The stale air chokes you and cobwebs brush across your face. You can feel panic grip your stomach, as the tunnel gets darker and darker.</p>
- <p>You reach a junction where the tunnel meets a corridor leading from north to south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you wish to turn north, <link-text>go to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to go south, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the distance, perched on the branch of an old oak tree is a jet-black raven.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, you may call to this bird by <link-text>turning to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you do not possess this skill or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually you come to the edge of a fast-flowing icy stream. The white water cascades over the mossy rocks and disappears towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you wish to follow the stream to the east, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you would rather explore upstream, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Running across the room, you lash out at the skulls, smashing them to fragments. You notice that inside each skull is a bubbling grey jelly that seems to writhe and change its shape, sprouting bat-like wings and suckers from its glistening form. In horror and loathing, you race for the exit corridor and escape just as a heavy portcullis falls with a crash, completely sealing off the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fly in an arc through the air towards the opposite roof. Everything seems to be happening in slow motion. You see the teeming crowds below in the street, and a nest of callysparrows in the eaves of a roof to your right. You hear their startled cries as you land with a crash on the other side. But it is the last sound that you will ever hear. The tiles splinter and collapse and you fall through the four floors of the <quote>Green Slipper Inn</quote> breaking your back in several places.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only thing under the carpet is dirt!</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">You may take a closer look at the bottles by <link-text>turning to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">Or you can leave the room and investigate the stable by <link-text>turning to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly take aim and hurl the rock at the Giak<ch.apos/>s head as hard as you can, but to your horror the creature ducks and the rock arcs harmlessly over its back. You must act immediately to save the wizard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only a few minutes after leaving the junction, you see in the distance a small log cabin and stable. On arrival you check the interior through a side window. The cabin looks deserted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to enter the cabin, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to search the stable, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the large rock you are hiding behind is rolled aside and you are faced by two snarling Giaks intent on your death. The cave mouth is a narrow entrance and you can only fight the Giaks one at a time.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you win, you may explore the cave further by <link-text>turning to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">Or you may leave and descend the hill. <link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect113-1-foot" idref="sect113-1">
- <p>Each Meal of Laumspur may be consumed when prompted for a Meal, in which case it fulfils the Meal requirement in addition to restoring 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Laumspur may also be consumed at any other time to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> without having any significance as a Meal.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been walking for over half an hour when your eye is caught by some bright red flowers growing near to a mossy bank. You recognize the plants to be Laumspur, a rare and beautiful herb much prized for its healing properties.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="113.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Kneeling down, you pick a handful of Laumspur and place it in your Backpack. You may eat this herb to regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Each Meal of Laumspur will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, and you have gathered enough for two such Meals.<footref id="sect113-1" idref="sect113-1-foot"/> Closing your pack, you continue your mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to head northeast, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to head east, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You coax the horse to lie down and begin to cover him and yourself with branches and dead leaves. You hear the wings of the Kraan as it passes over the trees. It returns and circles above you, but soon retreats back across the lake.</p>
- <p>You decide to leave now, in case it returns with some of its friends.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stumble into the first building and fall to the floor exhausted. You can smell cooked meat. You notice a small cauldron hanging over the embers of a dying fire, and a large oak table that has been set for a meal. Whoever lived here must have left in a great hurry this very morning. There is water in a jug and a loaf of fresh bread on the table.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you decide to take a quick Meal, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to search the building, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you would rather leave now and continue your run, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you climb out of the muddy water, black arrows fall all around you. Quickly, you dash for the cover of the trees and wait for the Giaks to leave the opposite bank, before continuing on foot towards the capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man is badly injured and near to death. If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, you may ease the pain of his wounds but he has been so seriously hurt he is beyond repair by your skills alone. He soon lapses into unconsciousness. You try to make him as comfortable as possible beneath a large forest oak, before leaving and pressing on through the thick woodland towards the northeast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spur your horse to a gallop and race down the long straight path. In the far distance you can just make out the silhouette of Holmgard on the horizon, its high walls and tall spires glinting in the morning sun. Your path joins a highway running from north to south. It is the main turnpike road between the northern port of Toran and the capital. You set off towards Holmgard, your eyes peeled for Kraan in the clear morning sky.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gallowbrush tears your cloak and scratches deep into your arms and legs as you slowly force your way through. Fifteen minutes later you emerge from the briars and stagger onwards between the trees.</p>
- <p>Deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current score for the wounds you have sustained.</p>
- <p>You feel a little dizzy as you push on, and your eyelids seem very heavy. You suddenly find yourself at the edge of a steep wooded slope.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to slide down the slope as carefully as you can, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not feel that you are up to the risk of this tricky descent in your present sleepy state, walk around the edge of the ridge by <link-text>turning to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Behind you can hear the blood-crazy Giaks killing the caravan horses. You risk a quick glance over your shoulder and see a Kraan start to climb high into the air. Will it attack you or is it interested in something else? The dark shadow that is gradually getting larger all around you tells you that you are its intended victim. The Kraan is diving full speed at you!</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wait until it is about to strike, then jump from the saddle, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you head as fast as you can for the trees, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you put your head down, pray to the heavens for good luck and gallop on regardless, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes walking you see a stranger, clad in red, standing in the centre of the track ahead. He has his back towards you, and his head is covered by the hood of his robes. Perched on his outstretched arm is the black raven that you saw earlier.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="121.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Perched on his outstretched arm is the<br />black raven that you saw earlier</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="678" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="678" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to call the stranger, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to approach the stranger cautiously, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you would rather draw your weapon and attack, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately the horse senses your communication. He calms down. You walk towards the beautiful animal and stroke his head reassuringly. You sense that he is frightened and confused. Mounting him, you lead him off to the path and head south once again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the creature dies, its body slowly dissolves into a vile green liquid. You notice that all of the grass and the plants beneath the smoking fluid are beginning to shrivel and die. A large valuable looking Gem lies on the ground near to the decaying body.</p>
- <p>Further along the track you can see a large war party of Giaks running towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to take the Gem, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you would rather leave it and run, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the box you find 15 Gold Crowns and a Silver Key. If you wish to keep the key, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">You can continue to investigate the tunnel by <link-text>turning to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">Or you may leave and descend the hill by <link-text>turning to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path opens out into a large clearing. You notice strange claw prints in the earth. Kraan have landed here. By the number of prints and by the size of the area disturbed, you judge that at least five of the foul creatures landed here in the last twelve hours.</p>
- <p>You see two exits on the far side of the clearing. One leads west, the other south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to take the south path, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to take the west path, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride deeper and deeper into the forest. Silently you thank the Prince for such a fine horse, for although the ground is a tangle of briars and roots, he never once falters. The Doomwolves are soon left far behind and you bring your horse to a halt. The light has faded fast and it is almost night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to press on ahead, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to bear left (the same direction as the path you left far behind) then <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After an hour of marching, the Drakkarim suddenly halt as a large, grey scaly creature approaches along the track. As the beast draws closer, you can smell its fetid breath on your face. It lets out a roar and grabs your head in its powerful webbed hands. The last thing you hear is the sharp crack of your spine snapping.</p>
- <p>Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully parting the dense foliage, you are horrified by the sight that meets you. In a small clearing ahead, three Giaks have tied a man to a wooden stake and are setting fire to a mass of brushwood bundled at his feet. You recognize his tunic as that of a <!--ERRTAG-RE-134226-->Border Ranger<!--/ERRTAG-RE-134226-->, one of the King<ch.apos/>s men who police the kingdom near the Durncrag mountains of the west. He has been badly beaten and is nearly unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you do not, you must attack the Giaks now in order to save the ranger<ch.apos/>s life. <link-text>Turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the main gates of the capital, and stare in awe at the height of the city<ch.apos/>s walls. Two hundred feet high, the walls of Holmgard have withstood the ravages of both time and the Darklords. You and the officer race through the tunnel of the inner gatehouse, one hundred yards in length, and finally halt outside the doorway of the main watchtower. Great crowds of soldiers and civilians are running to and fro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to continue following the officer, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you feel that you stand a better chance of making your way to the King<ch.apos/>s citadel on your own, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a small clearing in the woods. A bench, carved from a fallen tree is set in the centre of the clearing. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal here.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="321" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect28">When you have finished, if you decide to leave the clearing by the south way, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">Or if you prefer the smaller track that leads eastwards into the forest, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered about a quarter of a mile when you hear shouting and a noise like thunderclaps ahead. Edging nearer, you soon make out a clearing that you recognize to be the site of the ruins of Raumas, an ancient forest temple.</p>
- <p>A war party of Giaks, some twenty-five to thirty strong, are attacking the ruins from all sides. Many more of the Giaks are dead or dying among the broken pillars of marble, but still they assault whatever is hidden inside. Suddenly, a bolt of blue lightning rips through the front rank of Giaks sending the armour-clad creatures tumbling in all directions. A Giak, taller than the others and dressed from head to foot in black chainmail, curses at his troops as he whips them forward with a barbed flail.</p>
- <p>With weapon ready, you move to the edge of the clearing, under cover of the thick foliage, and try to catch a glimpse of the defenders. To your amazement, the ruins are being defended by a young man no older than yourself. You recognize his sky-blue robes, embroidered with stars. He is a young theurgist of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-137630-->Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137630-->: an apprentice in magic.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="131.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A young theurgist of the Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Five Giaks charge forward, their spears raised to stab the apprentice as he hurriedly retreats deeper into the ruins. You see him turn and raise his left hand just before a bolt of blue flame shoots from his fingertips into the snarling Giak soldiers. Close to where you are hidden, you see a Giak scuttle past and climb one of the pillars of the temple. He has a long curved dagger in his mouth and he is about to jump on the young wizard standing below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to shout a warning to the wizard, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to run forward and attack the Giak when he jumps, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to pick up a chunk of temple marble and throw it at the Giak<ch.apos/>s head, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">Or if you would rather turn and leave the battle area, and run back into the woods, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodyguard looks at you with great suspicion and slams the door. You can hear voices chattering inside the caravan. Suddenly the door swings open and the face of a wealthy merchant appears. He recognizes your Kai cloak and apologizes for his servant<ch.apos/>s behaviour.</p>
- <p>He says that they have been attacked several times since they left Toran: by Kraan, by bandits, and by robbers. They thought you may have been a bandit. Inside, the caravan is full of silks and spices. The merchant offers you food which you gratefully accept. After your sumptuous Meal, the fatigue of your ordeal finally overcomes you and you slip into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the statue, several cracks appear in its stone surface. It suddenly explodes before you as a real Winged Serpent breaks free of its stone mantle and attacks you.</p>
- <p>You must fight the creature.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Winged Serpent</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>(This creature is immune to Mindblast.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your skills, you detect Giak tracks around the perimeter of the clearing. The prints are fresh and you can tell that these cruel minions of the Darklords were in this area less than two hours ago.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">Forewarned by this knowledge, if you decide to investigate the huts, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you would rather avoid the clearing, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Peering over the steep undercut of the river bank, you can see a tangle of driftwood along the water<ch.apos/>s edge. A large tree trunk has grounded on the clay bank next to a small canoe.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to use the log to float down the river, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to use the canoe, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giaks get nearer and then crouch down as if preparing themselves to pounce. You can see the sharp serrated points of their spears and hear their low guttural speech. The larger of the two creatures screams, <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Orgadak taag! Nogjat aga ok!</quote></foreign> and attacks you.</p>
- <p>You must fight each of the Giaks in turn. Add 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> during this fight, as you have the advantage of the higher ground in your favour.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you win, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect137-1-foot" idref="sect137-1">
- <p>Count the 20 Gems as one Special Item.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the foul creatures die, so the greenish light starts to fade. You notice that in each of the broken skulls lies a Gem. You take these 20 Gems<footref id="sect137-1" idref="sect137-1-foot"/> before darkness engulfs the chamber. Remember to mark these on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>You quickly leave the dead Crypt spawn and press on.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prepare your weapon and advance to meet the enemy. There are two Mountain Giaks and you must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you win, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The inner courtyard is a bustle of activity. Cavalry scouts are waiting beside their nervous horses for messages from their unit commanders inside the Great Hall. They take orders with great speed to the defenders of the outer fieldworks. No sooner do they gallop off, than other scouts return, many of them breathless and wounded.</p>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen steps across the courtyard when you hear a deep voice boom out. <quote>Stop that man!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in a clearing where several trees have been cut down to make a rickety watchtower. Below the tower are three paths leading off in different directions.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="140.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you take the south path, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you take the east path, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you take the southwest path, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you decide to climb the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Sixth Sense has warned you that some of the creatures that attacked the monastery are searching the two paths for any survivors of their raid, but you can avoid both tracks by making your way through the undergrowth of the woods.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to head south, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">Or if you wish to cut through the heavier foliage towards the northeast, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see the tall grey-white walls and glimmering spires of Holmgard, its banners fluttering from the battlements in the fresh morning breeze. Stretching out towards the west, the River Eledil traces its course from the mountains of the Durncrag range to the Holmgulf. But from below the mountain peaks you can see a vast black army marching relentlessly on towards the city.</p>
- <p>To your right you can see the highway heading off over the rolling plain towards Holmgard. At a run you could reach the outer fieldworks of the city defences in an hour, but you would be in the open for most of the time and vulnerable to attack by Kraan. However, ahead of you, a wide and muddy river drifts sluggishly towards the Eledil. You could use the cover of the river banks and swim towards the capital. Or towards your left lies the Graveyard of the Ancients. These tombs and crumbling monuments to a forgotten age would conceal your approach, but it is a forbidden area. Many are the unnamed horrors that lie there in restless sleep, waiting to consume the unwary trespasser.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you will try your luck by the highway, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you feel that you stand a better chance of reaching the capital via the river, then <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">Or if you are brave enough to risk the unknown perils of the Graveyard of the Ancients, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon emerge from the woods onto a main highway. You recognize it as being the main road between the port of Toran in the north and the capital in the south. Spurring your horse on, you estimate you will reach the capital by morning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight your way through the press of bodies along the main street towards the citadel in the distance. City folk are rushing to and fro in the grip of panic, as the cries of Kraan are heard circling high above.</p>
- <p>In the crush, <!--ERRTAG-RE-149741-->one item is stolen<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149741--> from your Backpack. If you no longer have a Backpack or if you have no Backpack Items, you lose a Weapon. Remember to take this off your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>A runaway horse and cart career past and knock you into a doorway. You are stunned and you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. As you stagger to your feet, the door bursts open and a decrepit old man attacks you with a meat cleaver. He is quite insane and you must fight him or take evasive action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you choose to fight, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to evade a fight, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel as if you have been run down by a cart or wagon. As you fall forward the last thing that you remember before the darkness overcomes you, is the taste of the sandy road and the terrible pain in your back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden about a mile when you are knocked from your horse by an arrow grazing your forehead. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you pull yourself to your feet, you see a patrol of Drakkarim emerge from the woods on either side of the road. You have been ambushed and must evade them as quickly as possible by going into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect147-1-foot" idref="sect147-1">
- <p>The wording of this section assumes that you have come from <a idref="sect28">Section 28</a>. If you have just reached this section for the first time from <a idref="sect42">Section 42</a>, read the last sentence and two choices as follows: <quote><ch.ellips/>As you eat you notice that the path starts to curve towards the north. If you wish to follow it, <a idref="sect28">turn to 28</a>. If you wish to return the way you have come, <a idref="sect42">turn to 42</a>.</quote></p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes walking, you find a mossy hut set back from the path. You are hungry and must eat a Meal here or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. As you eat you notice that the path starts to curve towards the east. <footref id="sect147-1" idref="sect147-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to follow it, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you wish to return the way you have come, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kicking open the door, you dive into the farmhouse. A Kraan soars overhead, letting out a shriek of victory, a victim hanging in its claws. Getting to your feet, you find yourself alone. But propped against the fireplace is a Warhammer. You may take this Weapon if you wish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you want to stay in the farmhouse, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you would feel safer in the forest, you can make a dash by <link-text>turning to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to search the room further, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you ride along the highway, you notice that light is getting worse. It will soon be completely dark<ch.emdash/>and impossible to see any dangers that may lurk ahead. You decide to hide and rest at the wood<ch.apos/>s edge until morning.</p>
- <p>When you are satisfied that no one can see you, you pull your warm green cloak about you and drift off into an uneasy sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although a little overcooked, the food tastes fine (although it is not enough for a whole Meal) and the clear water slakes your thirst. You have spent nearly half an hour resting in this house when you suddenly realize the delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">Prepare your equipment and leave. <link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you concentrate on the keyhole, you could move the mechanism of the lock and open it. You can then make the pin levitate and free it from the lockplate, avoiding falling prey to any traps that may be set off as the door unlocks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you wish to use your Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter to open this lock and levitate the pin, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to remove the pin, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The herbalist offers you a selection of special potions. Some increase your strength; some induce invisibility; some give you great powers of stealth; and others give you the power of turning yourself into a gaseous form. The man pulls open the bottom drawer of the counter to reveal a magnificent wand. He says that it is a powerful weapon against all evil creatures, and that it will make you invulnerable in battle. He points to the mystical inscriptions which cover the black staff.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The herbalist offers you a selection of special potions</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="647" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="647" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to lean over the counter and read the strange inscriptions, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you are more interested in the potions, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you are the tall grey-white walls and glimmering spires of Holmgard, the city<ch.apos/>s banners fluttering from the battlements in the fresh morning breeze. Stretching out towards the west, the River Eledil traces its course from the mountains of the Durncrag range to the Holmgulf. But below the mountain peaks you can see a vast black army marching relentlessly on towards the capital.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="153.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>To your right you can see the highway heading off over the rolling plain towards Holmgard. At a gallop you could make the outer fieldworks of the city<ch.apos/>s defences in less than an hour, but you would be in the open for most of the time and vulnerable to attack by Kraan. Directly ahead of you, a wide river drifts sluggishly towards the Eledil. If you abandoned your horse, you could swim towards the outer defences under cover of the river banks. Or there is a final alternative. To your left lies the Graveyard of the Ancients. These tombs and crumbling monuments to a forgotten age would conceal your approach but it is a forbidden area. Many are the unnamed horrors that lie there in restless sleep, waiting to consume the unwary trespasser.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you will try your luck by the highway, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you feel that you stand a better chance of reaching the capital via the river then <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">Or if you are brave enough to risk the unknown perils of the Graveyard of the Ancients, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are dizzy from your wound and you stumble through the trees like a blind man.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you fall forward as if the ground has been snatched from beneath your feet. You have fallen head-first into a hunting pit. As you look up, you can see four Drakkarim levelling their bows at you, evil sneers spreading simultaneously across their ugly faces.</p>
- <p>As the world darkens, the last thing you feel are the black shafts of their arrows deep in your chest. You have failed in your mission.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach, the group of people stop talking. You can see by their expressions that they recognize your green Kai cloak. Slowly, one of the men extends his hand in friendship and says, <quote>My Lord, we had heard a rumour that the Kai were destroyed. Heaven be praised that it is not so. We feared all was lost.</quote></p>
- <p>You do not tell them of the destruction of the monastery, for they are refugees from Toran and have lost everything they owned. Their only hope now is that the Kai Lords will lead an army to victory. You learn that the northern port was attacked from both air and sea, and that the forces of the Darklords far outnumbered the King<ch.apos/>s brave garrison. You reassure them that Sommerlund will not fall and wish them luck on their journey ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Black arrows embed themselves in the mud all around you. More Giaks have appeared on the steep slope of the river bank and are firing at you. There is no cover on this side of the river.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to dive into the water and swim with the current, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to swim across to the cover of the trees on the other bank, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The forest begins to thin out until finally you can make out a road through the trees ahead. The highway is full of people heading south. Many are wheeling their possessions along on handcarts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to join the refugees and perhaps learn more of what has happened in the north, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you would prefer to continue to move south but under cover of the trees, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Key fits and the lock opens. You pull back the door to find yourself face to face with a strange old man. In his right hand is a staff. Suddenly a bolt of lightning shoots from the staff and hits you square in the chest. You lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gasping with pain, you knock the old man aside and run up the steep staircase towards daylight. You are halfway up the stairs when he fires another bolt at you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If the number is 0<ch.endash/>5, the bolt misses you and shatters part of the wall.</p>
- <p>If the number is 6<ch.endash/>9, then you have been hit in the back and lose a further 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>If you survive, you stagger out into the daylight and curse your bad luck. It was only by an unlucky chance you discovered the secret temple of a sect of evil druids. You are very lucky to have escaped with your life. You quickly rejoin the path which now disappears over the hill.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small15.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small15.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ploy does not work, for the merchant will not allow you to enter his caravan. Suddenly he clicks his fingers and the bodyguard grasps the hilt of his scimitar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">You must fight him by <link-text>turning to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">Or you must jump clear of the speeding caravan. <link-text>Turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If it is 0<ch.endash/>4, you have been seen. <link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, they do not spot you and they slowly file away along the far side of the ridge. <link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you sit down, the stone serpent slowly moves forward on its plinth. You suddenly break out in a cold sweat and grasp your weapon with trembling fingers in case it should attack. A red forked tongue appears from the head of this strange statue and dips into the bowl of green light above your head. Slowly the tongue re-emerges holding a Golden Key which, to your surprise, it drops into your lap. A panel in the east wall clicks open to reveal an exit.</p>
- <p>You take the Key and leave as quickly as possible.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you get nearer to the men, you call to them. As they turn to face you, your skin turns cold and your heart pounds, for they are Drakkarim in disguise. Suddenly they charge at you. Forced to the ground, you are tied up with ropes and dragged behind them along a track. They take your Backpack and Weapons, but do not search your cloak or find your Gold Crowns. They cackle menacingly to themselves, and talk at great length of the tortures that await you at their camp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After nearly an half an hour you feel the current getting stronger. Looking out across the surface you can see that you are approaching a whirlpool in the middle of a large river bend. You will surely drown if caught in its current, so you quickly swim towards the right hand river bank and continue your mission on foot, carrying all your equipment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully opening the seals on each of the bottles, you sniff at the contents. They all seem to be different types of wine. Suddenly a smaller bottle tucked behind the others catches your eye. Pulling out the glass stopper, you recognize the smell to be that of Alether, a Potion of Strength, which is orange in colour.</p>
- <p>You may keep this Potion and swallow it before you fight. It will increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of your fight. Be sure to mark it down on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and to strike it off once you have used it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">You now decide to investigate the stable by <link-text>turning to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake in a fever. Images swim before your eyes and then fade completely. The pain in your back is intense and you cry out for relief. You feel a cool, damp cloth placed on your forehead and glimpse the worried face of a young woman. An old man whispers in her ear and then he disappears from view. The girl kneels at your side and comforts you with words of kindness and reassurance, but the light quickly fades and darkness engulfs you once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212"><link-text>Turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in the presence of a great evil. Your mind is being probed by a powerful and timeless being and you must shield yourself. The struggle has begun and your sanity is at stake. It is a long and <!--ERRTAG-RE-169126-->torturous<!--/ERRTAG-RE-169126--> ordeal, during which you experience many fantastic and terrible apparitions that tempt and appal you. After this you must lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and stagger towards the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been travelling for about a mile when you notice two legs sticking out from behind a large boulder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you possess and wish to use the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to take a closer look, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you would rather avoid meeting their owner and press on into the forest, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull yourself to the top of the opulent caravan and nestle among the travelling cases and bags. Night will soon engulf the highway. A chill wind blows from the west and you pull your cloak around yourself to keep warm. You listen to the voices below and you can smell the mouthwatering aroma of spiced meat. It reminds you that you are very hungry and must now take a Meal.</p>
- <p>The fatigue of your ordeal finally catches up with you and you drift off into a restless sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pass each skull, it slowly turns, as if watching your every move. You are halfway across the room when you hear the sharp crack of bone splitting. Suddenly you see hideous shapes hatching inside the skulls, and stretching their wings.</p>
- <p>Ten slimy winged creatures attack you, and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Spawn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect23">You may evade more fighting after the first round of combat and run for the archway by <link-text>turning to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel is dark and the air is much cooler than outside. You carefully advance with one hand on the tunnel wall to aid your sense of direction. You have been in total darkness for three minutes when you detect the foul smell of decay ahead, similar to rotting meat. If you have a Torch and Tinderbox in your Pack, you may light the Torch to see your way ahead.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, something heavy drops from the tunnel ceiling onto your back and you fall to your knees. It is a Burrowcrawler and you must fight it, for it is trying to strangle you with its long slimy tentacles.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="530" width="386" src="170.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>It is a Burrowcrawler and it is trying to strangle you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="666" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="666" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Burrowcrawler</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">7</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you do not have a torch, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> during this fight. The Burrowcrawler is immune to Mindblast and Animal Kinship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you win, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are at the very edge of the wood when your horse rears up in agony. The Kraan has sunk its claws deep into the horse<ch.apos/>s hind legs and is trying to knock you to the ground with its wings. The ghoulish Giak rider squeals with delight as he stabs at you with his spear. You jump to the ground and dash for the trees, leaving the poor dying horse in the clutches of the Kraan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night falls and you are soon engulfed in darkness. To press on any further would be futile, for you would be sure to lose your way. Tethering your horse to a tree, you pull your green Kai cloak about you and fall into a restless sleep.</p>
- <p>You are awoken by the sound of troops in the distance. Across the lake you see the black shapes of Drakkarim and a pack of Doomwolves. A Kraan appears from above the trees and lands on the roof of the small wooden shack. It is being ridden by a creature dressed in red robes. The Kraan takes off and begins to fly across the lake to where you are hidden.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="172.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Camouflage to hide yourself and your horse, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to ride deeper into the forest to escape the Kraan, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to prepare to fight the creature, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the door you hear the crash of a giant stone slab as it falls from the ceiling. Turning around, you see that your exit is now blocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you have a Silver Key, you may try to open the door by <link-text>turning to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you do not possess a Silver Key, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After nearly an hour of drifting downstream, the water current becomes quite strong and you can see that you are being drawn towards a whirlpool near the centre as the river curves round. You know that if you are caught in the swirling water, you stand very little chance of escaping a watery death. You dive into the muddy river and as you begin to swim towards the shore you unfortunately lose your Backpack and Weapons. Without your equipment, you reach the wooded bank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Waving your arms at the approaching cavalry, you recognize them to be <!--ERRTAG-RE-176294-->Border Rangers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-176294--> of the King<ch.apos/>s army, tough woodsmen who police the troubled western frontier of the kingdom. Your relief at seeing them soon fades when you realize that they are fleeing from a pack of Doomwolves with snarling Giak riders. Black arrows are dropping all around the rangers, as the vicious Doomwolves get nearer and nearer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you wish to take cover and hide, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to make for the other bank, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hide behind some thick bushes so that the Doomwolf and its rider will not see your white horse. Luckily it works<ch.emdash/>the beast lopes past and vanishes down the track that you have just come along.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small17.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small17.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to attack the remaining Doomwolves and their riders, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to press on deeper into the forest, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search all of the cupboards in the small cottage but do not find anything of use or value. You decide that you have wasted enough time here and must press on without further delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skill enables you to recognize the boots and leggings of a King<ch.apos/>s soldier. You can sense that the man is wounded and in need of help.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to aid him, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you would rather leave him here, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been spotted by the guards who level their crossbows at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to raise your hands above your head and walk slowly towards them, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to run for cover in the trees, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>They see you raise your weapon, and they instantly attack you.</p>
- <p>If you decide to fight them, you must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Soldier 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Soldier 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you kill all three of them, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect181-1-foot" idref="sect181-1">
- <p>According to the <cite>Summer Special 1985</cite> issue of the <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter</cite>, <quote>the bandits took everything you had, including your Helmet and crowns.</quote></p>
- <p>If you have turned to this section from <a idref="sect205">Section 205</a>, you may ignore this statement. Do not adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The statement was referring to what happens in <a idref="sect205">Section 205</a>, but you can arrive at this section from <a idref="sect22">Section 22</a> where you would have surrendered to the bandits.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you duck, and dive to avoid the crossbow bolt. The bandit fires and you feel the sleeve of your jacket tear as the missile grazes past your left arm. You thank the gods for your good fortune and sprint on.</p>
- <p>None of the other bandits have bows and they soon give up the chase. As you sprint off into the distance, you leave them all far behind. You have lost your Weapons and Equipment,<footref id="sect181-1" idref="sect181-1-foot"/> but not your life.</p>
- <p>You stop just long enough to strap up your wounded arm and then continue along the road towards the outer defences of the capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Three rangers gallop past the river bank, closely followed by the Giaks on their snarling mounts<ch.emdash/>the Doomwolves. But your Camouflage skill has saved you from being spotted. The pack of evil Giaks continue on their chase without even glancing at the river.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The officer orders his men to halt and asks you your business. You tell him who you are, and how the monastery has been destroyed. He is deeply saddened to hear your news. He offers you a horse and asks you to accompany him to Prince Pelathar, the King<ch.apos/>s son.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you accept, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you decide to decline his offer, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The caravan is out of control and is bumping wildly through the rough ground that borders the highway. With difficulty you eventually steer the frightened horses back onto the road and halt the caravan.</p>
- <p>A quick search of the interior reveals 40 Gold Crowns, a Sword and enough Food for 4 Meals. If you wish to keep any of these items, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The fatigue of your ordeal finally catches up with you. You must eat a Meal after which you fall into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You narrow your eyes and scan the trees for some sign of the hidden archer. Your wait is not a long one, for a moment later a sharp pain tears through your chest and you are thrown back by the force of three arrows. Two of the black shafts have sunk deep into your rib cage, and the third has pierced your thigh.</p>
- <p>The last thing that you see is the canopy of fern trees above and a large green dragonfly as it settles on your belt buckle.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kakarmi disappear into the dense undergrowth and you soon find yourself lost. After nearly two hours of walking you hear the sound of running water. You decide to investigate a little closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two furry faces appear over the top of the trunk. Both pairs of eyes stare at your weapon and the two creatures let out a shriek of fright. Leaping from the trunk, they disappear into the forest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="187.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to follow them, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to let them go and continue, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see the shadow of the Kraan getting larger all around you. It suddenly strikes, pitching you forward onto your face with the power of its attack.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, the Kraan has ripped away your Backpack.You have lost the Pack and all the Equipment that was inside it.</p>
- <p>If the number picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, your Backpack is intact but you have been wounded in both arms. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and run to the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">Now <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thank your Kai training and your quick thinking, for that bog could have proved as deadly as any Drakkarim or Kraan.</p>
- <p>You are worried about losing time, and push on further into the trees towards the south. Ahead of you, you see a wide path that also leads south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118"><link-text>Turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk for three miles along the water<ch.apos/>s edge until you chance upon a wrecked river barge. It appears to have served as shelter for someone, as you can see a bed and some cooking utensils through a hole in the deck.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small19.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small19.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to search the barge, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to press on, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodyguard unsheathes a large scimitar and strikes at your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bodyguard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you win, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to evade more combat during the fight, you can jump from the speeding caravan by <link-text>turning to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the razor-fanged mouth of a Doomwolf and hear the hideous cries of the Giaks. Two of them are coming straight for you. You are saved from certain death when your horse jumps at the approaching beasts, knocking them both to the ground. You lash out at the Giak and open a large wound in his head.<ch.ellips/> and then suddenly, as if by a miracle, you<ch.apos/>re through and racing on down the highway, clear of the rest of the pack.</p>
- <p>But a shadow follows you. It is a Kraan and it has started to dive. Its target is you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you veer off the highway towards the cover of the trees, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you press on regardless of the Kraan, and gallop flat out down the highway, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The beast and its rider lie dead. You notice a Scroll tucked into the Giak<ch.apos/>s belt. You may take this if you wish, but remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The other Doomwolves are charging along the path towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to fight them, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to escape into the woods, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint towards the wagon. People are running everywhere in panic as the Kraan make their attack, carrying their poor victims off into the darkening sky. A large Kraan is hovering above the wagon and three snarling Giaks drop from its back onto the startled horses. You must fight them or leave the wagon and run to the safety of a nearby farmhouse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to fight the Giaks, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to run to the farmhouse, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the bear<ch.apos/>s blood from your weapon, you notice the mouth of a cave hidden behind the rock from which the bear attacked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to investigate this cave further, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to press on, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the man into a small library off the main hall. He pushes one of the many books on the shelves which line all four walls, and you hear a metallic click. One section of the bookcase slowly slides back to reveal a hidden passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to follow the man into the passage, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you do not want to enter the dark corridor, leave the guildhall and return to the street. <link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar lies dead at the bottom of the ferry. He has a Short Sword and 6 Gold Crowns which you may keep if you wish. You push the body into the water where it floats for a few seconds before disappearing into the icy depths.</p>
- <p>Grabbing the pole, you steer to the other side of the lake and abandon the ferry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can sense that there is someone else behind the screen. There is a lingering aura of wickedness around this shop. Be on your guard<ch.emdash/>something is wrong here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to return to the street, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to examine the goods in the glass counter, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Most of the cupboards and drawers are empty. Whoever lived here took nearly everything they owned with them, but you do manage to scrape together enough fruit in the cellar for one Meal. You may mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night is starting to close in. The shadows of the forest are growing longer and darker. Just as you are about to stop and rest, you see through the trees a line of people moving south along a wide highway. Moving closer, you notice a large merchant<ch.apos/>s caravan in the centre of the dusty turnpike. It is drawn by six large horses and is moving much faster than any of the other traffic. This could be your chance to reach the capital as quickly as possible.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You notice a large merchant<ch.apos/>s caravan<br />in the centre of the dusty turnpike</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="694" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="694" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Camouflage to hide in among the packing cases strapped to the roof, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to jump onto the caravan, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the rough track for nearly an hour when you notice ahead of you another wider path branching off towards the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you wish to turn south along the new path, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">But if you wish to head east, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">Or if you wish to go west, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Urging your horse forward, you gallop down the long stretch of highway towards the capital. After only a few minutes your horse suddenly slows and finally limps to a halt. You dismount and examine its raised right foreleg. You curse your ill luck, for you see that it has thrown a shoe and injured its hoof quite badly. You will have to leave him here and proceed on foot as quickly as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You suddenly feel a searing pain shoot through your chest as something explodes against you in a shower of red sparks.</p>
- <p>You lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Through the smoke, the Sage is preparing to throw more explosives at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you have 10 or more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points left, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you now have less than 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After an hour of walking you arrive at a junction. The path continues south and another path joins it from the west. You realize that the west path will lead you back to the marsh, so you continue southwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect205-1-foot" idref="sect205-1">
- <p>Make sure to erase all items and item containers from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e. Weapons, Backpack, Special Items, and Belt Pouch).</p>
- <p>The author may not have realized that the Crystal Star Pendant and <a idref="map">Map of Sommerlund</a> might be among the items lost. You may decide to simply keep these items if you have them. If you do choose a strict interpretation of the text, however, then it<ch.apos/>s only fair that you shouldn<ch.apos/>t look at the <a idref="map">map</a> if you are without the <a idref="map">Map of Sommerlund</a> item.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Their leader picks up your discarded Equipment<footref id="sect205-1" idref="sect205-1-foot"/> and ushers you along the road ahead. An evil grin spreads across the face of the other two men, and you suddenly realize that they are not soldiers after all. You make a break for it and run away from there, sprinting towards the distant capital.</p>
- <p>Behind you, the ominous click of a crossbow being primed sends a shiver down your spine.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path soon joins a highway where a signpost indicates Toran to the north and Holmgard to the south. You turn south towards the capital.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track soon reaches a larger road which crosses the stream via a stone bridge. A signpost at the bridge points north to Toran and south to Holmgard. The road itself is jammed with people moving south, some pushing their possessions along on handcarts. You join the refugee column and head towards the capital.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="532" width="386" src="207.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect30"><link-text>Turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghoulish creatures thrust their spears at you and attack. Fight these creatures as a single enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">13</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win, you can run to the safety of the farmhouse by <link-text>turning to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">Or you can return to the woods by <link-text>turning to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see ahead a corridor sloping upwards, and as you reach the top of this slope, a stone portal slides across to reveal another passage ahead.</p>
- <p>You step through the opening which then quickly closes with a crunch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just inside the door, you are stopped by a journeyman of the Guildhall and asked to explain your intrusion. You calmly inform him of your urgent message for the King, and he hurries you into the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s chambers.</p>
- <p>A distinguished old man in deep purple robes turns to greet you and listens to your story. Taking you by the arm, he leads you into an adjoining library and closes the door. Pressing one of the many thousands of books, he releases a secret panel in the wall and beckons you to follow him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to follow him into the dark passage, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you are not completely happy about this man and wish to leave the Guildhall, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along a dimly lit corridor which opens out into a large square room, with an oak door in the far wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to walk across to the door, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you would prefer to return to the surface and continue your journey, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you awake, the pain is but a memory. Restore all lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your original score. A tall man dressed in white robes stands before you, a bowl of herbs in his hands. Placing the leaves into a kettle of boiling water, he then turns to greet you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A tall man dressed in white robes stands<br />before you, a bowl of herbs in his hands</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="673" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="673" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You have passed close to death and have seen his face, Kai Lord, but the Grey One has not claimed you for his flock. You are healed in body but I sense that you are wounded in spirit. What is it that troubles you so?</quote></p>
- <p>You recognize the man to be one of the King<ch.apos/>s senior physicians, for the gold embroidered emblem of a dove upon his sleeve is the sign of his respected vocation. You tell the aged cleric of the events at the monastery and of your perilous journey to the King.</p>
- <p>Raising you gently from the bed by your arm, he bids you follow him. You notice that you are in a lavishly decorated room which leads out through a long corridor lined with tapestries. It slowly dawns on you just where you are.</p>
- <p>This is the citadel of Holmgard and you are about to meet the King.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been trudging through the forest for nearly two hours. The nagging fear that you are lost begins to seem a reality. Apart from the occasional cry of a Kraan in the far distance, you have seen or heard no evidence that the enemy is in this part of the forest. As you descend a rocky hillock, you see something unusual in the tangled woods ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path gradually narrows until it disappears completely into a mass of dense vegetation. You cannot go any further on this route and therefore you must return to the clearing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text> and take the south path.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge into a small clearing. In the centre you see the skeletal remains of a large animal. To the south a narrow track leads off into the distance.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="215.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to examine the skeleton, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you would rather press on, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Placing one hand on his forehead and the other on his wounded arm, you feel the warmth of your healing powers leave your body and give strength to the injured man.</p>
- <p>He tells you his name is Trimis and he is a soldier in Prince Pelathar<ch.apos/>s army. The Prince and his troops are engaged in battle to the south, where a large force of the Darklords<ch.apos/> creatures are attacking the bridge of Alema. During the fight, he had been snatched into the air by a Kraan, and dropped into the forest.</p>
- <p>You make the soldier as comfortable as possible before continuing on your mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly escape from the madman and dodge along a dark alleyway where the houses are small and cramped together. At the very end is a green door with a sign above it that says:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small21.gif" width="386" height="124" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small21.pdf" width="386" height="124" />
- <instance class="text">
- <signpost>Kolanis<ch.emdash/>Sage & Herbalist</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to enter, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to wait until you are sure the madman has disappeared and then return to the main street, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses reveal that more than just horses are heading towards you. You can just make out the very high shrieks of Giak war-cries in the distance. By the number of cries and curses you estimate that there are over a dozen Giaks, and probably Doomwolves as well. You decide that advertising your existence is perhaps not quite such a good idea after all!</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All that remains of you now is embedded five feet into the stairs on which you were standing, beneath a vast granite block.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodyguard unsheathes a scimitar and lunges for your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bodyguard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you win, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to evade combat at any time during the fight, you can jump from the speeding caravan by <link-text>turning to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you approach the base of the log wall. The tree trunks are rough-hewn and afford plenty of footholds for your climb. As you reach the top of the wall, you come face to face with a crossbow. The soldier holding it in your face motions for you to descend a wooden ladder to the ground. You do not argue with him. Slowly you descend the ladder.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="221.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you go on you discover a forest path that divides at the point you join it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to use your Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you wish to take the south fork, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to take the east fork, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After quite a struggle, you manage to free the heavy trunk from the river bank. Gathering your equipment in a bundle, you stow it on top of the log and then slowly wade out into the river. The current soon takes you and you drift slowly downstream.</p>
- <p>After twenty minutes you hear the sound of horses along the left bank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to hide behind the log, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to climb onto the log and prepare to catch the riders<ch.apos/> attention, then <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden several miles and have seen no sign of refugees or of the enemy. You race on towards a high ridge in the middle distance. You should be able to see the capital from there.</p>
- <p>As you reach the peak, the sight that meets you on the far side is one of hope<ch.emdash/>but there is still one challenge you know you have to face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the language to be that of the Kakarmi, an intelligent race of forest animals that live in, and care for the forests of Sommerlund. You have nothing to fear from these creatures as they are very timid and gentle in their behaviour. Using your skill of Animal Kinship, you call to them in their strange native tongue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you say <quote>Do not be afraid, I am a friend,</quote> <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you say <quote>I am a Kai Lord. I wish you no harm. I must talk with you,</quote> <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first the descent is quite easy, but you soon find it difficult to see clearly and your legs feel very weak. The <quote>Sleeptooth</quote> scratches are affecting you, and suddenly you pitch forward and slip head-first into darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are now up to your waist in slimy water. The air is thick with small insects that sting your face and clog your nose. Something wraps itself around your leg. It is a Marshviper and you must fight it.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Marshviper</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">6</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the combat, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you kill it without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path continues eastwards but soon disappears into thick undergrowth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you continue east, cutting through the vegetation with your axe, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you head south to where the bushes are less dense, and then press on through the forest, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kraan hovers above you, raising dust with the beat of its huge black wings. The dust gets into your eyes and nose, and you start to cough. Now the beast attacks.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small22.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small22.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You must fight it to the death. Because of the dust, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 1 point.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kraan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you win you have a choice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">Will you search the body by <link-text>turning to 267</link-text>?</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">Or will you continue along the east path by <link-text>turning to 125</link-text>?</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the far distance, you can make out the silhouette of soldiers on barges that are strung out in a line across the river. You can hear the low growls of Doomwolves returning along the opposite bank.</p>
- <p>For once you throw caution to the wind and sprint along the river bank towards the barges in the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to ask the price of the potions when the bamboo screen crashes down and a young man leaps at you. He has a long curved dagger in his hand.</p>
- <p>He is upon you and you must fight for your life.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Robber</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you kill him within 4 rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you are still fighting after 4 rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">You may evade more fighting after 2 rounds of combat by dashing through the front door. If you wish to do this, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rough-looking leader approaches you and says, <quote>Our needs are simple, kind sir. Your money or your life!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to fight them, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to run, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After nearly an hour, you catch up with the horse and succeed in calming him down. You are now north of the cabin, but you are confident of finding your way back.</p>
- <p>Mounting the horse, you ride back past the cabin, and press on towards the south once again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump clear of the speeding caravan but land very badly and break your ankle. The pain is terrible and you soon lose consciousness.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately you never wake up, but it may be of interest to you that your head is now adorning the saddle of a Kraan.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Prince<ch.apos/>s horse is indeed a magnificent animal, fast and sure of foot. You gallop along the twisting track as if it were a straight highway, until the noise of battle has disappeared far behind you.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and must eat a Meal during your ride.</p>
- <p>After several miles, the path stops abruptly at a junction. There is a signpost, but it has been hacked down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to use your Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you wish to turn left, <link-text>go to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to turn right, <link-text>go to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect236-1-foot" idref="sect236-1">
- <p>Remember to erase the Vordak Gem from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you had two Gems, you need erase only one. The <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss is indeed permanent.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Gem hovers above the mouth of the skeleton king, glowing a fierce red. Suddenly, an explosion of searing crimson flame lashes upwards from the sarcophagus, destroying the Gem completely.<footref id="sect236-1" idref="sect236-1-foot"/> You are thrown against the far wall and knocked unconscious.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="236.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small23.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small23.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>When you awake, the chamber is completely empty. The skeleton king and the sarcophagus have vanished. You have lost 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, and your initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> is reduced by 1 point for the rest of your life.</p>
- <p>You carefully get to your feet and stagger towards the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make full use of your Kai Discipline and quickly burrow deep into the loose earth of the wooded hillside. Covering yourself with your cloak, you pull a loose branch across your hastily dug shelter.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you have picked a number 0<ch.endash/>4, then you have passed undetected. <link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have picked a number 5<ch.endash/>9, then you are not so lucky! <link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path meanders between several small, wooded hills and eventually leads to a ruined log cabin. It seems that it had burnt down not so long ago, for the ashes are still warm and a haze of smoke still lingers. You sense possible danger here.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small24.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small24.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect42">You may leave by the south route by <link-text>turning to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">Or you may take the north track by <link-text>turning to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you push on into the forest, you hear the wings of the Kraan pass above the trees and disappear northwards. You ride on for nearly an hour until you come to a clearing. On the far side is a track that leads off to the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you wish to enter the clearing and take the south exit, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you would rather skirt the edge of the clearing and pick up the track further on, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path leads along a ridge of wooded hillocks and changes direction towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wizard heeds your cry and spins around just in time to loose a searing bolt of energy at the Giak. The creature<ch.apos/>s head disintegrates in flames and its twitching body falls in a heap at the foot of the pillar. The Giak officer sees you and shouts, <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ogot<ch.ellips/> Ogot!</quote></foreign> to his cowering troops, who quickly run away from the ruins to the safety of the forest beyond.</p>
- <p>The young wizard wipes his brow, and walks towards you, his hand extended in gratitude and friendship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lid of the sarcophagus slips to the floor with a dull crunch. You are looking at the remains of an ancient king, who lies still surrounded by his treasure. An ornate crown is still in position on his skull. The jaw of the skeleton is wide open and the darkness of the mouth seems strangely bottomless. A distant rumbling can now be heard from deep in the earth.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="242.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurrying through the forest, you stumble and fall down a steep slope which drops you in a heap on a hidden path below. On the path is a dead body. It is a Giak, a spiteful and ghoulish servant of the Darklords. Many centuries ago, their ancestors were used by the Darklords to build for them the infernal city of Helgedad, which lies in the volcanic wastelands beyond the Durncrag range of mountains. The construction of the city was a long and torturous nightmare, and only the strongest of the Giaks survived the heat and poisonous atmospheres of Helgedad. This creature that lies before you is a descendant of these Giak slaves. It has been killed by a sword blow to its head, and by its side lies a Mace. You may take this Weapon if you wish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">Continue along the hidden path by <link-text>turning to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tell you that you are not alone. You are in very great danger. Return to the surface as quickly as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrows hit the water above you, and drop harmlessly past as you swim beneath the surface towards the opposite bank.</p>
- <p>Quickly you wade out of the river and dash for the trees. You are now out of range of the Giaks, who remount their Doomwolves and continue their chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the ferry reaches the middle of the lake, the man stops rowing and stands up. He laughs menacingly and pulls back the hood of his cloak to reveal himself. He is a Drakkar and you must fight him.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>He laughs menacingly and pulls<br />back the hood of his cloak. He is<br />a Drakkar and you must fight him</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="684" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="684" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The merchant looks angry. He calls to his bodyguard. You must think of something quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you decide to offer him something of greater value that you have in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you prepare to fight the bodyguard, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the base of the hill and hurry into the forest. After only a few minutes you discover an old forest track.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to follow this track north, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to follow this track east, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You descend a flight of stone stairs that lead to a large chamber. A macabre sight awaits you. Directly opposite, across the large stone room, is an ornate archway with a corridor leading into the darkness beyond. The strange green light radiates from two lines of skulls each resting on a stone plinth. They face each other to form an eerie walkway across the room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to walk across the room to the archway, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to attack the skulls, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Leaping from the top of the trunk, you land in front of two small furry creatures. You recognize that they are Kakarmi, an intelligent race of animals that inhabit and tend the forests of Sommerlund. Before you can apologize for your dramatic entrance, the frightened little creatures scurry off into the forest.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small25.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small25.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to follow them, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to continue, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are lucky, they do not seem to have spotted you. They slowly move on and have soon disappeared along the far side of the ridge. You continue your run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the centre of a small clearing you see a group of humans talking excitedly and gesturing wildly with their hands. There are two children, three men and a woman. Their belongings are wrapped in bundles which they carry slung over their shoulders. Their clothes look well made and expensive but they are dirty and torn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to approach them and ask who they are, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to avoid them and continue onwards on your mission, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Doomwolves are soon on you and you must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="291" src="253.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you kill them all in battle, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Tracking ability tells you that several trails from the right path lead off in the direction of the left path. They have been made by large wolves. The Darklords use such beasts to scout for their armies. They are vicious creatures and are often ridden by Giaks. The left path leads towards Holmgard, and the right path leads off towards the Durncrag mountains. The choice of route is yours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you wish to turn left, <link-text>go to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to turn right, <link-text>go to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature that you now face is a Gourgaz, one of a race of cold-blooded reptilian creatures that dwell deep in the treacherous Maakenmire swamps. Their favourite food is human flesh!</p>
- <p>The Prince<ch.apos/>s Sword lies at your feet. You may pick up and use this weapon if you wish. The Gourgaz is about to strike at you<ch.emdash/>you must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gourgaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you win, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken by the cries of Kraan high above you in the clear morning sky. Rubbing your eyes, you peer upwards through the canopy of branches to see three of the loathsome creatures fly off towards the north.</p>
- <p>You are sure you have not been spotted, but perhaps it would be best to leave now<ch.emdash/>just in case. You mount your horse and ride south along the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find a stone portal in the east wall, but there does not appear to be any way of opening it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you wish to examine the statue, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to sit on the seat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, you untie the ropes binding your hands. You wait for a chance to make a break for it and then sprint as fast as you can into the dense undergrowth. Black arrows whistle past you, but you are soon deep among the trees and safe again. You have lost your Backpack and Weapons but you have your life and limbs intact. You continue to push on into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is getting colder. You gradually notice the smell of sulphur in the air. You can hear chanting in the distance. It sounds as if it is somewhere in another part of this cave. A slit in the stone wall opens, and the end of a black staff begins to appear. Suddenly a bolt of blue lightning leaps from the staff and hits you in the chest.</p>
- <p>As your life slowly drains away, the last thing you see is an old man dressed in black robes raising a dagger above your throat.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swimming towards the bank, you can see the ranger spread-eagled at the water<ch.apos/>s edge. You reach him but only to find that he has broken his neck in the fall and is dead.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, two Giaks jump on you from above and you must fight them. You are unarmed and must fight the Giaks with your bare hands. Deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you win, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sweating, and out of breath, you part the dense undergrowth to see a Kraan hovering over the wagon. Three ghoulish Giaks drop from its back, startling the horses. They advance upon the helpless children with their spears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to run back to the wagon and defend the children, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you want to run deeper into the forest, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The merchant takes your Gold and clicks his fingers. His bodyguard attacks you with his scimitar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to fight, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to evade combat, jump clear of the speeding caravan by <link-text>turning to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, you follow the stream as it makes its way towards the east. Suddenly you notice something in the distance that brings you to a halt.</p>
- <p>Lying in the rushing water like a great black dam is a dead Kraan. You creep nearer, under cover of the foliage, until you see three arrows deep in the beast<ch.apos/>s chest. Trapped beneath the beast is the body of its rider. It is a Giak, a spiteful and malicious servant of the Darklords. Many centuries ago, their ancestors were used by the Darklords to build the infernal city of Helgedad, which lies in the volcanic wastelands beyond the Durncrag range of mountains. The construction of the city was a long and torturous nightmare, and only the strongest Giaks survived the heat and poisonous atmospheres of Helgedad. This creature is a descendant of these Giak slaves. It seems that this one must have drowned. The Giak<ch.apos/>s pouch contains 3 Gold Crowns. (You may take these if you wish.)</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="263.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small26.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small26.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect70">You may continue downstream, by <link-text>turning to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">Or you may leave the stream and make your way on foot through the wooded hills to the south by <link-text>turning to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have not gone far when you hear the sound of battle to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to follow the sound, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you would rather continue south, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly move off into the forest before more Doomwolves or Kraan appear.</p>
- <p>You have walked for more than an hour when you reach the top of a rocky hill. The sight that befalls you on the other side is one of hope. But there is also a daunting challenge to be faced.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the beast writhes in its final death agony on the black stone floor, the portal in the east wall clicks open to reveal a corridor beyond. You quickly dash through the secret door just as it crashes shut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Covering your nose with your cloak, you cautiously approach the dead beast. The sharp smell of its fetid black blood makes your stomach churn, but you are determined to press on. Then you notice a large saddlebag strapped to its chest. Opening the bag, you find a Message written on an animal skin.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="267.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Opening the bag, you find a message</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="648" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="648" />
- <instance class="text">
- <blockquote>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Orgadak shada taag okak<ch.emdash/>orgadak ok<ch.emdash/>nara ek ash jek eg Helgedad.</quote></foreign></p>
- </blockquote>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>Deeper in the bag is a Dagger. You may keep both the Message and the Dagger if you wish.</p>
- <p>You leave the body and continue eastwards along the path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You black out for only a few minutes before you are revived with a measure of strong spirit. Feeling weary but thankful to be alive, you lean on the shoulders of the King<ch.apos/>s men and you stagger towards the outer defences.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The madman lies dead at your feet. Two soldiers soon appear at the doorway and immediately congratulate you. They tell you that he was an escaped lunatic whom they had been tracking for the last two days. One of the soldiers gives you 10 Gold Crowns reward money and offers to escort you to the citadel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you accept his offer, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you would prefer to trust your own sense of direction, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the angry cries of the enemy drift across the lake. You must leave here before more Kraan appear. You mount your steed and push on further into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel very weak. The poison of the snake has entered your bloodstream and you can feel the muscles of your body involuntarily tightening and relaxing. Your legs suddenly collapse beneath you and you feel the slimy water of the marsh close over your head.</p>
- <p>Your life ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Keeping a watchful eye on the sky above, you move quickly along the track. You recall that this route leads to Fogwood, a small cluster of huts that have been used by a family of charcoal burners for nearly fifty years. After twenty minutes you reach the edge of a clearing where the huts are grouped in a small circle. There is no sign of the usual mist of wood smoke which gives Fogwood its apt name, and the huts are unusually quiet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, you may <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you do not possess this skill, you prepare your weapon and stealthily approach the huts. <link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The outer fieldworks of the city can now be seen. Drawn across the river is a line of barges chained together to form a floating barricade. You can also see soldiers running along the log walls of the fieldworks, and you can hear the faint noise of battle drifting from the west.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small27.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small27.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to approach the barges, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to take cover in the trees, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In your haste to avoid the enemy, you catch your foot in a tree root and you are pitched head over heels in a tumble of dust and leaves. You quickly get to your feet and, crashing through the undergrowth at the base of the hill, you run into the forest. You have been running for nearly ten minutes when you discover that you have lost your Weapon(s). Well, at least you still have your life and your Backpack. Wiping the grime from your face, you push on through the trees ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have followed this twisting track for about twenty minutes when you hear the beating of wings high above the trees. Looking up you see a large Kraan approaching from the north, its huge black wings casting a gigantic shadow on the trees below.</p>
- <p>On its back are two creatures armed with long spears. They are Mountain Giaks<ch.emdash/>small ugly creatures full of hatred and malice. Many centuries ago, their ancestors were used by the Darklords to build the infernal city of Helgedad, which lies in the volcanic wastelands beyond the Durncrag mountain range. The construction of the city was long and <!--ERRTAG-RE-249381-->torturous<!--/ERRTAG-RE-249381-->, and only the strongest of the creatures survived the heat and poisonous atmosphere of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Quickly you dive for the shelter of a large fern tree as the Kraan passes overhead. With heart pounding, you pray that your quick reactions have saved you from being spotted.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reaching for your Axe you manage to hack your way through the tangle of wood and twisted branches to the clearer forest beyond. Your cloak is torn in several places and your right leg is badly bruised above the knee.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="281" width="326" src="276.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213">Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you awake, you find yourself lying at the foot of a steep slope in a tangle of tall grasses. Your Backpack and Weapon are missing and your head aches. You cannot tell how long you have been unconscious, but you realize that you must not delay in pressing on with your mission.</p>
- <p>Standing up, you see your Backpack is intact but the Weapon is broken in two and is now useless. Remember to cross it off your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (If you have more than one weapon, only one of them is broken<ch.emdash/>you may choose which one it is.) You quickly pick up your Backpack and move off into the trees ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly leave the path and gallop off along the track heading towards the capital. When you reach the point where the Doomwolves stopped, you can see just beyond a meadow the main highway which runs from the northern port of Toran to Holmgard. You should reach the capital by morning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clamber over the loose rocks and into the mouth of the cave, and then quickly turn to push a large rock over the entrance.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes you see the Giaks on the rocky ledge outside, their evil yellow eyes furtively searching every crevice of the hillside. They are so close that you feel sure that they must spot you any second now.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you begin your climb, you hear the beat of wings approaching from the west. Kraan! By the noise they are making you estimate there are at least ten, perhaps more. You curse your bad luck, for the hillside offers no cover from the sky. If you are attacked during this difficult climb, you will find it nearly impossible to fight back and remain upright at the same time.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you decide to draw your weapon and remain completely still, in the hope that the Kraan will not spot you, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you decide to quickly descend the hillside and take cover in the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you race through the trees you can hear the horrible cackle of the Giaks close behind you. Soon the trees start to thin out and directly ahead you can see a rocky hillside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you break cover and climb up the hill, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you change direction and continue your run through the forest, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Looking above the heads of the crowd, you notice that one of the shops opposite the main gate is the timbered surgery of a city physician. Suddenly, a bold plan springs to mind. Bracing yourself against the tide of bodies, you struggle across to the other side of the street. You quickly enter to find that there is no sign of life, apart from a brightly coloured parrot in its cage by the window.</p>
- <p>Taking a selection of small bottles you slip on a white surgeon<ch.apos/>s cloak, and fight your way back to the main gate. <quote>An emergency!</quote> you bluff, as guards stop and question you. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s the royal cook<ch.apos/>s wife<ch.ellips/> she<ch.apos/>s having a baby.</quote></p>
- <p>The guards hesitate for a moment, but you assure them that the matter is most urgent and they decide to let you in. One of the great doors swings open about two feet, and you are roughly pushed through the narrow gap into the courtyard beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are only ten feet or so away from the robed stranger when the raven squawks a warning to its master who instantly spins around. You are frozen in your tracks by the hideous apparition of a Vordak, a lieutenant of the Darklords and one of the undead. You must fight him.</p>
- <p>Due to the surprise of your attack, you may add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of combat only.</p>
- <p>Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the second and subsequent rounds of fighting, for the creature is attacking you with the power of its Mindforce as well as with a large black mace!</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you win, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your passage through the Graveyard will not be easy, for the ground is broken and covered with a thorny graveweed. This wicked briar tears your cloak and cuts your legs. The air hangs heavy and still. Foul gases seep from open crypts and the haunting murmur of distant whispering fills your ears.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Your passage through the Graveyard is not<br />easy, the ground is broken and<br />covered with thorny graveweed.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Carefully, you approach a gap between two ancient pillars, and part the graveweed with your cloaked hand. Suddenly, the ground collapses beneath you and you fall in a tumble of earth and stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a sickening thud, the chunk of marble cracks open the back of the Giak<ch.apos/>s head. The creature drops to its knees and slowly falls forward, down to the ruins below. Elated by your skill, you race forward to aid the young wizard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Messengers of death<ch.emdash/>and ones eager to deliver their news<ch.emdash/>the Doomwolves surround and then attack you. Valiantly you fight, but it is to no avail for there are too many of them.</p>
- <p>As your life<ch.apos/>s blood seeps away and eternal dark approaches, the last sight you remember is the glint of sunlight on the spires of Holmgard.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your mission.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track soon disappears completely into a tangle of thorny brambles and low-branched fir trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you decide to return to the junction and head east, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you decide to hack your way slowly through the undergrowth in this present direction, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the walls of the fieldworks, the large oak gates open and you are quickly hurried inside. A sergeant, bloodstained and battle-weary, calls to an officer who turns and recognizes your cloak.</p>
- <p><quote>My Lord,</quote> he says. <quote>Where are the other Kai Masters? We are in desperate need of their wisdom. The Darklords press us most cruelly and casualties are high.</quote></p>
- <p>You inform the brave officer of the terrible fate of your kinsmen, and the urgency of your mission to seek the King<ch.apos/>s council. Without saying a word, he motions to a soldier to bring forward two horses. You both mount and gallop off towards the high city wall of Holmgard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two guards look tired and anxious. They nervously hold their royal halberds in front of themselves, using the weapons to push away anyone who comes too close to the gates. An angry woman attacks one of them, pounding his chest with her clenched fists making him fall against the other guard. All three collapse in a struggling heap of flailing arms and legs. Seeing your chance, you dash forward and pull the large lever which opens the great doors.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="289.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You slip inside and the doors close without either of the guards seeing you enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the long box is a Quarterstaff wrapped in leather. You may take this Weapon if you wish. You close the box and descend the ladder to the clearing below, taking care to use only the sound rungs.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small29.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small29.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two Giaks lie at your feet, their bodies twisted and lifeless. A quick search reveals 6 Gold Crowns, 2 Spears and a Dagger.</p>
- <p>You may keep the Gold and take either the Dagger or a Spear. Remember to mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The Kraan flew off during your battle, and the track is now deserted. You adjust your Backpack and continue your mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The last thing that you experience of this life is the feeling of being sucked into the void of darkness. No trace of you remains in this world, for you have passed into a realm of timeless existence. You have become a slave of an ancient evil.</p>
- <p>Your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a wave of his hand, Banedon leaves the ruins and you continue your mission, pushing on through the thick woods ahead. You have not gone far when you realize several pairs of yellow eyes are watching you from the undergrowth to your left. Suddenly, a black arrow skims the top of your head. It is a Giak ambush and you must run as fast as you can to escape it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staying underwater for as long as you can, you finally surface to see the Giaks far behind you. You have lost your Weapon(s) and Backpack but at least you are still alive.</p>
- <p>You wade out of the muddy water and continue your journey under cover of the trees that line the right-hand bank.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If the number you pick is 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If the number is 3<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have continued your journey for about fifteen minutes when suddenly a black arrow whistles past your head and embeds itself in a tree. Instinctively you duck and draw your weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to remain where you are in order to try and spot the hidden archer, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to run for the cover of denser undergrowth, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense something is wrong. With fighting all around and the forces of the Darklords so near, why has this man stayed in the forest? You feel a strange aura of evil about him and decline his offer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the skills taught to you by your masters in the art of Hunting, you inch your way through the foliage undetected. In less than a minute you are directly behind, and only a few feet from, the stake to which the ranger is tied. The wood is alight and great clouds of smoke are engulfing the poor victim. You take your axe and run forward, hidden by the smoke. One blow of your axe is all that is needed to sever his bonds, and you pull him free and back into the safety of the forest. As you press on into the forest, you hear the shrieks of the Giaks as they discover that their prisoner has literally disappeared in a cloud of smoke!</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="610" width="386" src="297.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The head of the bird slowly turns and it curses you. An instant later, it flies off above the trees and has soon disappeared. Shocked by what you have heard you are now sure that the fledgling was a scout of the Darklords and is now probably on its way to inform them of your whereabouts.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small30.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small30.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to continue your journey along the track, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to leave the track and continue through the forest instead, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon realize that you are walking deeper into a wooded marsh. To continue in this direction will be slow and hazardous.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to continue, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to change direction and head towards firmer ground, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk for over an hour, during which time you keep a constant vigil for any sign of Kraan in the sky above. You have twice spotted their tell-tale shadows in the sky and on both occasions your quick wits have saved you from capture. You are now very hungry and must eat a Meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">You may now continue on your journey by <link-text>turning to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Discipline reveals that the west path is a dead end.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">You choose the south path and <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If the number is 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The forest here is sparse and hilly. It does not give much cover from an attack from the air. You move as quickly as you can from tree to tree, to avoid the Kraan but you can hear the sound of Doomwolves close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect304-1-foot" idref="sect304-1">
- <p>Record this Backpack Item as a Vordak Gem.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Gem feels incredibly hot and burns your hand. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You quickly pick it up with the edge of your Kai cloak and slip it into your Backpack.<footref id="sect304-1" idref="sect304-1-foot"/> A Gem that size must be worth hundreds of Crowns. But the Giaks are very close and their arrows whistle past your head as you turn and run for the safety of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the open doorway of the first hut, you can see the body of a charcoal burner lying face down on the rough stone floor. He has been murdered, stabbed in the back by a spear. All his furniture and belongings have been smashed and broken and not one piece remains intact.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="373" src="305.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>This is the evil handiwork of Giaks without any doubt, for they delight in the destruction of all things. A quick check of the other huts reveals a similar story of murder and wreckage. In the last hut that you search, you discover a Giak Spear<ch.emdash/>proof of your suspicions. You may keep this Weapon if you wish.</p>
- <p>More determined than ever now to succeed in your mission, you continue along the track.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of battle gradually fades behind you. Suddenly, you are pulled to the ground. Three Drakkarim have dropped from a tree above. You struggle but it is useless for there are too many of them for you and they are very strong.</p>
- <p>The last thing that you hear is the vicious snarls of Drakkarim as they raise their spears.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your climb is swift and easy. It reminds you of the many trees that you climbed and explored near Toran as a child, when you wanted to pick fruit or to look out over the beautiful countryside of Sommerlund.</p>
- <p>Pushing open the treehouse door, you see an old hermit huddled in the corner of the small cabin. A look of great relief spreads across his face as he recognizes your green Kai cloak. He tells you that this area is full of Giaks, and that he has counted over forty Kraan flying over his home in the last three hours. They were heading east.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Pushing open the treehouse door,<br />you see an old hermit huddled in<br />the corner of the small cabin</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <p>He scurries over to a cupboard and returns with a plate of fresh fruit. You thank him and place the fruit in your Backpack. There is enough for one Meal. The hermit also produces a fine Warhammer and lays it upon a table by the door. <quote>Your need is greater than mine, Kai Lord,</quote> he says. <quote>Please take this trusty Warhammer if you so wish.</quote></p>
- <p>You may take this Weapon only if you exchange it for another Weapon already in your possession, for it is the only defence that the hermit has against the enemy.</p>
- <p>Thanking the old man, you carefully descend the tree and continue on your mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stable door is open and you can hear the breathing of a horse from inside the darkened interior. Suddenly, the horse senses your presence and rushes past, knocking you to the ground. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to chase after the runaway horse, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than ten paces when the raven squawks a warning to the stranger. Turning to face you, the robed creature utters a piercing screech that freezes your blood and grips your stomach with fear and panic. It is a Vordak, a lieutenant of the Darklords and one of the undead. Within seconds, a host of Giaks appear at its side and attack you. You fight bravely but you are greatly outnumbered.</p>
- <p>The last thing you remember is the icy grasp of the Vordak<ch.apos/>s skeletal fingers as they close around your throat.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice a small faded sign on the wall of a building opposite.</p>
- <p>You remember that the royal court sessions are held within the citadel and you are sure that the west road must lead there.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small31.gif" width="386" height="104" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small31.pdf" width="386" height="104" />
- <instance class="text">
- <signpost>Royal Court<ch.emdash/>1 Mile</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hillside is steep and the earth is loose and slippery. You chance a swift glance over your shoulder and see the two Giaks emerge from the woods. They start to climb after you. About halfway from the peak of the hill, you spot a cave to your right, almost totally hidden by a landslide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to hide in the cave, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to avoid the cave and continue your climb to the peak, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You curse your ill luck. It seems that nature and the Darklords have conspired against you, but it does not shake your determination to reach the King.</p>
- <p>Wiping the sticky mud from your clothes, you turn and press on into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299"><link-text>Turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the foul Giak blood from your weapon, you quickly descend the hillside before the Kraan spots its dead riders. Many times you lose your footing on the loose rocks, falling several feet.</p>
- <p>Deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for cuts and bruises to your legs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you nearly an hour to reach the citadel. When you arrive you find that the citizens of Holmgard are in panic and confusion. Your escort approaches the armoured guards at the main entrance and tells them of your urgent message for the King.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you have picked a number that is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wrapped in a bundle of women<ch.apos/>s clothing is a small velvet purse containing 6 Gold Crowns and a Tablet of Perfumed Soap. You may take these items and continue your journey.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small32.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small32.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In your haste to avoid the enemy, you catch your foot in a tree root and you are pitched head over heels in a tumble of dust and leaves. Crashing through the undergrowth at the base of the hill, you quickly pick up your weapon and run into the thick forest. The Kraan is no longer circling above, but you can make out the silhouette of two Giaks on the peak of the hill behind.</p>
- <p>Wiping the grime from your eyes, you wince as you discover a large bruise on your forehead. Without delay, you run deeper into the safety of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you dive away from the stairs, and land on the stone floor. Your quick reactions have saved your life, for a vast granite block has fallen from the ceiling and crushed the steps, just in front of the lockplate!</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="287" width="372" src="317.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Shaken but still in one piece, you get to your feet. A shaft of dull grey light is seeping into the chamber from above, where the stone block was. Through a hole in the ceiling you can see a tangle of graveweed and the cloudy sky above. You clamber out of the tomb and head for the arched south gate of the necropolis as fast as possible. The pointed log walls of the city<ch.apos/>s outer defence works are now visible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two soldiers and a sergeant run towards you, their crossbows aimed at your head. As they get nearer, they recognize your Kai cloak and a look of relief spreads across their faces.</p>
- <p><quote>My Lord,</quote> says the sergeant, <quote>where are the other Kai Masters? We are in desperate need of their wisdom. The Darklords press us most cruelly and our casualties are high.</quote></p>
- <p>You inform the brave soldier of the fate of your kinsmen, and the urgency of your mission to see the King. He takes you back to the barges where an officer accompanies you on horseback towards the high walls and the main gate of Holmgard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The slimy creature lets out a long, ghastly death-cry and collapses. You are near to panic and scramble to your feet, grabbing what you think to be your belt from the jaws of the dead beast. You can see light in the far distance, and you sprint for it as fast as you can. When you finally emerge into the daylight, you fall onto the leafy ground and fight for breath in painful gasps.</p>
- <p>Slowly sitting upright, you notice that you are still wearing your belt<ch.emdash/>you had not lost it after all. What you grabbed from the jaw of the Burrowcrawler was a leather strap with a small pouch and a sheathed Dagger halfway along it. You break open the clasp to find it contains 20 Gold Crowns. You may take both the Dagger and the Crowns if you are able to.</p>
- <p>Feeling a little better now, you gather your Equipment together and push on eastwards into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you race across the open field towards the wood, a Kraan dives at you and claws your arm. Before you can fight back, it has flown off again, shrieking with cold malice.</p>
- <p>You enter the wood, but you have lost 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk for nearly an hour along the twisting river<ch.apos/>s edge. Beyond the next turn you can hear the faint noise of battle. You carefully climb a steep hillock to get a better view of the area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After what seems an eternity of struggling, you reach the peak of the steep hill. Behind you, above the canopy of trees, you can see the still smouldering remains of the monastery. To the north, a column of jet-black smoke rises high into the sky. Small orange tongues of flame flicker at its base. Your heart sinks as you realize that the port of Toran is ablaze.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a piercing cry above warns you that a Kraan is about to attack. It is about thirty yards away and diving for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you are going to stand and fight it as it swoops down, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you are going to evade its attack and slide down the other side of the hill, away from the Kraan, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the top of the tower you can see above the trees in all directions. Far to the north, a column of jet-black smoke rises high into the sky. Small orange tongues of flame flicker at its base. Your heart sinks as you realize that the port of Toran is ablaze. From the southwest, the wind carries the noise of battle. It is close; no more than five miles at most.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="323.gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small33.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small33.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>On the floor of the watchtower is a large oblong box.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to open this box, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you would prefer to descend the ladder, and leave the tower, taking care to use only the good rungs, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull up your hood and drop down behind the rocks that litter the mouth of the cave. Holding your breath, you curl up into a tight ball, and completely cover yourself with your green cloak. Only a few minutes later the Giaks clamber over the rocky ledge outside, their evil yellow eyes furtively searching every crevice of the hillside.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="218" height="189" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="218" height="189" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Then cursing in their strange tongue, they leave the ledge and start to climb towards the peak. You silently thank your old Masters for teaching you the Kai Discipline of Camouflage<ch.emdash/>it has probably saved your life on this occasion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to explore the cave, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to leave and descend the hill in case the Giaks return, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon seeing you emerge from the woods, the Giak officer shouts <quote>Ogot! Ogot!</quote> to his cowering troops, who flee the ruins and run to the safety of the forest.</p>
- <p>Shaking his mailed fist at you, the black-clad Giak screams, <quote>RANEG ROGAG OK<ch.emdash/>ORGADAKA OKAK ROGAG GAJ!</quote> before leaving. Surveying the scene of battle, you count over fifteen Giak dead lying among the broken pillars of Raumas.</p>
- <p>The young wizard wipes his brow and walks towards you, his hand extended in friendship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You carefully insert the Key and turn it clockwise. You hear a dull click<ch.emdash/>the Key works. You lift out the pin, and the large granite door slowly swings towards you on hidden hinges. The grey half-light of the Graveyard floods into the tomb. The exit is overgrown with graveweed and you suffer many cuts to your face and arms as you fight your way through to the surface.</p>
- <p>Looking back, you see the tomb door slowly close and a cruel inhuman laugh seems to rise out of the very ground on which you stand. In blind panic, you race through the eerie necropolis towards the south gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within a few minutes, you can see the Kraan hovering over a hilltop behind you. At a quick count you can make out at least sixteen of these horrible creatures, each of which has at least two Giaks riding upon its back. They are armed with long spears and wear tall pointed helmets of dull bronze. You hear the excited grunts of the Giaks. They have spotted you.</p>
- <p>You jump for the entrance of the tunnel some twenty-five feet below, but your boot gets caught in a thorny briar and you hang helplessly upside down<ch.emdash/>weaponless and vulnerable. Fortunately for you the end is swift: As the first Giak lance pierces your heart, death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the creature dies, its body slowly dissolves into a vile green liquid. You notice that the grass and plants beneath the smoking fluid are beginning to shrivel and die. But a large valuable looking Gem lies on the ground near to the decaying body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to take the Gem, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you would rather leave as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you descend the ridge towards the Graveyard of the Ancients, you are aware of a strange mist and cloud that swirls all around this grey and forbidding place, blocking the sun and keeping the Graveyard in perpetual gloom.</p>
- <p>A creeping chill seems to penetrate your very bones. Your horse becomes startled and no matter how you urge him on, he refuses to go any nearer to this dreadful place. So you must leave your horse and press on by foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fatigued by your exertions, you stop to rest for a few minutes at a fallen tree. You notice a large bundle, beneath the trunk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you wish to examine the contents of the bundle, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to leave it where it is and continue your mission, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Surrounded by thorny briars and closely packed roots, you see the entrance of a tunnel disappearing into the hillside beyond. It is approximately seven feet in height and just over ten feet wide. As you get closer, you can feel a slight breeze coming from the inky blackness. If the other end of this tunnel emerges on the far side of the hill, it could save you many hours of difficult climbing. But it could also harbour unknown danger.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small34.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small34.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to enter the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you would prefer to climb the hillside, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk for nearly ten minutes along a dark and winding corridor, and then start to climb a steep staircase to a small wooden door. The man presses a secret catch and the door opens. You enter a large, plushly decorated bedroom with a huge marble bath that takes up one corner of the room. The man suggests that you refresh yourself here whilst he seeks an audience with the King.</p>
- <p>You quickly bathe and change into some white robes that have been left out on a large marble table. Shortly, the man returns and leads you through a long corridor lined with exquisite tapestries. You finally arrive at a large door guarded by two soldiers wearing silver armour.</p>
- <p>You are about to meet the King.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have cut your way through the thick undergrowth for nearly half an hour when you hear the beat of wings high above the trees. Looking up you can just make out the shape of a Kraan approaching from the north. It is one of the monsters that attacked the monastery and on its back are two grey-skinned creatures armed with long spears.</p>
- <p>These are Mountain Giaks<ch.emdash/>evil servants of the Darklords, full of hatred and malice. Many centuries ago, their ancestors were used by the Darklords to build the infernal city of Helgedad, which lies in the volcanic wastelands beyond the Durncrag range of mountains. The construction of the city was long and <!--ERRTAG-RE-294191-->torturous<!--/ERRTAG-RE-294191--> and only the strongest of the Giaks survived the heat and poisonous atmosphere of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Hidden by the trees, you freeze, keeping absolutely still as the Kraan passes overhead and disappears towards the south. When you are sure that it has gone, you move off once again into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the stream vanishes up into the rocky hillside, you can see on the track above four soldiers and their officer. They wear the uniform of the King<ch.apos/>s army.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You can see on the track above four soldiers and their<br />officer wearing the uniform of the King<ch.apos/>s army</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Camouflage and wait for them to pass, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to approach them, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach, the black bird flies off above the trees and soon disappears from view. You search the tree on which it was perched but find nothing unusual. Rather than waste any more precious time, you continue off along the track.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="288" width="288" src="335.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect121"><link-text>Turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush into the clearing and take the Giaks completely by surprise. Without a moment<ch.apos/>s hesitation, you strike out at the one nearest to you. He is dead before his body hits the ground. The other Giaks <!--ERRTAG-RE-296725-->unsheathe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-296725--> their curved swords and attack you. You must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Giak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you win, you free the ranger and <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just as you remove the ornate pin, a loud crack deafens you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If the number picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you awake, you find yourself lying at the foot of a steep slope in a tangle of long grasses. Your Backpack and Weapons are missing and your head aches violently. You cannot tell how long you have been unconscious, but you realize that time is running out and you must press on. Standing up, you notice your Backpack and Weapon on the slope above. They must have broken free when you fell. You quickly retrieve them and move off into the trees ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly sidestep just as a long dagger shatters the glass top of the counter. A swarthy youth is attacking you and you must fight him.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Robber</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you kill him within 4 rounds of Combat, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you are still fighting after 4 rounds of Combat, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">You may evade combat by escaping through the front door at any stage of the fight, by <link-text>turning to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gallop forward to meet the oncoming Doomwolf and rider, your Weapon raised to strike. The Giak sees you and unsheathes his scimitar. You must fight both Giak and Doomwolf as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak + Doomwolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards do not believe your story and refuse to let you enter. Your escort disappears into the crowd and you are left alone to find your way in this confused city.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The guards do not believe your story<br />and refuse to let you enter</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="672" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="672" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Shocked, and then dejected by such a rebuff, you are carried along by the crowds until you find yourself at the entrance to the Guildhall. It stands at one side of the Guild Bridge which crosses the River Eledil near where it joins the Holmgulf.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to use the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you wish to enter the Guildhall, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to search for another route into the citadel, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your voice echoes through the trees, the stranger slowly turns to face you. Your heart pounds and your <!--ERRTAG-RE-301862-->blood<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301862--> freezes as you realize that the stranger is not human. It is a Vordak, a hideous lieutenant of the Darklords and one of the undead. A piercing scream fills your ears, and the creature raises a huge black mace above its head and charges at you. Frozen with horror, you can also feel the Vordak attacking you with the force of its mind.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="342.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield. You must fight this creature. It is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you win, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are held by the mass of tangled branches and roots. Eventually you free your right hand, grab your Axe and hack your way slowly through the foliage to the clearer forest beyond. Your cloak is torn in several places and your left arm is cut and badly bruised above the elbow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are weak and dizzy. You can no longer feel your legs and they refuse to bear your weight. You try to crawl for the door but the robber jumps on you and pins you to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull up the hood of your green Kai cloak and hold your breath as the Kraan circles above. After a few minutes, you hear the frantic curses of the Giaks. The beating of Kraan wings fades, as they disappear towards the west. Your quick reactions have saved you from capture and likely death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">You can now return to the track, by <link-text>turning to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">Or push on under cover of the trees. <link-text>Turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lodged deep in the rib cage of the skeleton is a Spear. It is in good condition and you may take it if you wish and are able to.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">To leave the clearing, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trees start to thin out, and just ahead you can make out the silhouette of an old log cabin beneath an oak tree. This hut seems to have been abandoned and there is little of apparent value left behind. Opening a small chest near the main door, you discover bunches of twigs that have been tied together with strong twine. One end of the bundle has been coated with pitch. They are Torches. Next to the chest is a Short Sword and a Tinderbox. You may take them and a Torch if you wish but make sure that you mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Closing the door of the cabin, you head off along an overgrown path towards the northeast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Raising your boot to kick away the dead snake, your heart skips a beat as you realize that it was a Red Marshviper. There is no known cure for its venomous bite! You decide that to go any further in this direction would be suicide. Carefully retracing your steps, you eventually reach firm ground and continue on your mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect349-1-foot" idref="sect349-1">
- <p>Later books assume that you keep the Crystal Star Pendant and ask you if you possess it to see if you<ch.apos/>ve ever met Banedon. It also may or may not be useful in other situations. You may decide whether or not to keep the Pendant.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>He is a young blond-haired youth with deep brooding eyes. His face is lined with exhaustion and the grime of battle, and his long sky-blue robes bear evidence of living rough in the wilds. He shakes your hand and bows. <quote>My eternal thanks, Kai Lord. My powers are nearly drained. Had you not come to my aid, I fear I would have ended my days atop a Giak lance.</quote></p>
- <p>He is weak and unsteady on his feet. You take his arm and sit him down upon a fallen pillar where you listen intently to what he has to say.</p>
- <p><quote>My name is Banedon. I am journeyman to the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, which is the <!--ERRTAG-RE-306915-->Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306915-->. My Guildmaster has sent me to your monastery with this urgent message.</quote> He removes a vellum envelope from inside his robes and hands it to you.</p>
- <p><quote>As you see, I have opened the letter and read its contents. When the war started, I was on the highway with two travelling companions. The Kraan attacked us and we lost each other in the forest during our escape.</quote></p>
- <p>The letter is a warning to the Kai Lords that the Darklords have mustered a vast army beyond the Durncrag range. The Guildmaster urges the Kai to cancel the celebrations of Fehmarn and prepare for war.</p>
- <p><quote>I fear we were betrayed,</quote> says Banedon, his head bowed in sorrow.</p>
- <p><quote>One of my order, a brother called Vonotar, had explored the forbidden mysteries of the Black Art. Ten days ago he denounced the Brotherhood and killed one of our Elders. He has since disappeared. It is rumoured that he now aids the Darklords.</quote></p>
- <p>You tell Banedon what has happened at the monastery, and of your mission to warn the King. Silently, he removes a gold chain from around his neck and hands it to you. On the chain is a small Crystal Star Pendant. <quote>It is the symbol of my Brotherhood, and we are both truly brothers in this hour of darkness. It is a talisman of good fortune<ch.emdash/>may it protect you on your road ahead.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank him, place the chain around your neck and slip the Crystal Star<footref id="sect349-1" idref="sect349-1-foot"/> inside your shirt. (Remember to mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Banedon bids you farewell. <quote>We must leave this place lest the Giaks return with more of their loathsome kind to put an end to us. I must return to my Guild. I bid you farewell, my brother. May the luck of the gods go with you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the Chamber of State, a magnificent hall decorated lavishly in white and gold. The King and his closest advisers are studying a large map spread upon a marble plinth in the centre of the chamber. Their faces are lined with worry and concentration. A silence fills the hall as you tell of the death of your kinsmen and of your perilous journey to the citadel. As you finish your story, the King approaches and takes your right hand in his.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" height="520" width="386" src="350.gif" />
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The faces of the King and his closest advisers<br />are lined with worry and concentration</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Lone Wolf, you have selfless courage: the quality of a true Kai Lord. Your journey here has been one of great peril and although your news comes as a grievous blow, the spirit of your determination is like a beacon of hope to us all in this dark hour. You have brought great honour to the memory of your Masters, and for that we praise you.</quote></p>
- <p>You receive the praise and heartfelt thanks of the entire hall<ch.emdash/>an honour that brings a certain redness to your young face. The King raises his hand and all the voices cease.</p>
- <p><quote>You have done all that Sommerlund could have asked of a loyal son, but she is greatly in need of you still. The Darklords are powerful once more and their ambition knows no bounds. Our only hope lies within Durenor with the power that once defeated the Darklords an age ago. Lone Wolf, you are the last of the Kai<ch.emdash/>you have the skills. Will you journey to Durenor and return with the Sommerswerd, the sword of the sun? Only with that gift of the gods may we crush this evil and save our land.</quote></p>
- <p>If you wish to accept the quest of the Sommerswerd, begin your adventure with Book 2 of the Lone Wolf adventures:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.02fotw;">Fire on the Water</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Map of the Lastlands</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/jpeg" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- <instance src="map.png" width="512" height="384" class="pml" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.gif" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="385" height="121" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <p>
- <line><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- <line><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- </p>
- <p>Kai Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Weapons:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Belt Pouch: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Meals: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Backpack Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Special Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character <!--ERRTAG-RE-316950-->fall to 0 or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-316950-->.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <table summary="This table provides the endurance losses sustained by the hero and enemy as a result of combat.">
- <caption>Combat Results with combined hero and enemy endurance losses</caption>
-
- <colgroup span="1" />
- <colgroup span="13" />
-
- <tfoot>
- <tr>
- <td colspan="14">Combat results are given enemy's endurance loss first followed by the hero's endurance loss. For example, "12/0" means that the enemy loses 12 endurance points while the hero loses 0 endurance points. A combat result of "k" means that the combatant is killed. For example, "0/k" means that the enemy loses 0 endurance points while the hero is killed.</td>
- </tr>
- </tfoot>
-
- <tbody>
- <tr>
- <th rowspan="2" scope="col">Random Number</th>
- <th colspan="13" scope="colgroup">Combat Ratio</th>
- </tr>
-
- <tr>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-11 or lower</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-10/ -9</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-8/ -7</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-6/ -5</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-4/ -3</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-2/ -1</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">0</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">1/ 2</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">3/ 4</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">5/ 6</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">7/ 8</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">9/ 10</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">11 or higher</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">1</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/6</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/4</td>
- <td>7/4</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">2</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">3</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">4</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">5</th>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">6</th>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/6</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/1</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- <td>16/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">7</th>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/1</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">8</th>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>8/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/1</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">9</th>
- <td>5/3</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">0</th>
- <td>6/0</td>
- <td>7/0</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- </tbody>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- <instance class="text">
- <table>
- <tr>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>8</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>7</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>3</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote> Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote>. Replaced <quote>on 4</quote> with <quote>on the number 4</quote>. Removed <quote> on the last page of this book</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-12598-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to zero</quote> with <quote>fall to zero or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12598-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Discipline section</quote> with <quote>Kai Disciplines section</quote>, removed <quote> on the last page of the book</quote>, and capitalized all occurrences of <quote>discipline</quote>. Replaced <quote>fully in <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment section</a></quote> with <quote>fully in the <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment section</a></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Added periods to the sentences describing the Helmet and Chainmail Waistcoat.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment: How to use your equipment</a>) Added a period to the second from last sentence in the Weapons subsection.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed a superfluous period in the second paragraph of the first example. Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote> and replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="levels">Levels of Kai Training</a>) The Levels of Kai Training section did not originally appear in this book, but has been added for the reader's information.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Kai Wisdom</a>) Removed <quote>on the back cover of the book </quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>Sommerlund</quote> with <quote>Sommlending</quote> and made the last choice (about using Sixth Sense) the first.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Moved the last choice (about the Tracking Discipline) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Changed the last choice that led to <a idref="sect331">Section 331</a> to lead to <a idref="sect316">Section 316</a> instead in order to parallel <a idref="sect89">Section 89</a>. It doesn<ch.apos/>t make sense to skip the section describing the tumble downhill.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Moved the choice about the Camouflage Discipline into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Moved the choice about the Tracking Discipline into the first position and replaced <quote>Gallowbrush</quote> with <quote>gallowbrush</quote>: you can't pick it up.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>Jala</quote> with <quote>jala</quote> and <quote>dagger</quote> with <quote>Dagger</quote>. The original versions of this book had this section lead to <a idref="sect272">Section 272</a>, which is incorrect. We are using the correct section, <a idref="sect273">273</a>, as used in more recent editions.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) The text is unchanged but we have concatenated some of the paragraphs for the dice rolls for clarification.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Added a comma after <quote>0<ch.endash/>4</quote> in the first choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Reordered the choices. The choice that was originally first (about removing the pin) is now last. The choice about the Golden Key was originally last and is now first. Also added <quote>and wish to use it</quote> after <quote>Golden Key</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>unmistakeable</quote> with <quote>unmistakable</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Added a comma after <quote>4 or lower</quote> in the first choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Added a blank line before the decisions and reversed their order.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Moved the last choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Made the choice that led to <a idref="sect286">Section 286</a> to lead to <a idref="sect251">Section 251</a> instead. Many readers have realized that there was an error here but assumed that the original numbers for the choices should simply be reversed, giving Lone Wolf a chance at survival for hiding and certain death for riding on. Actually, there is no certain death possibility here. Hiding is supposed to grant you certain survival. The proof of this correction is that there is no other path to <a idref="sect251">Section 251</a>, and it works perfectly.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>crossbow had</quote> with <quote>crossbow has</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Made the choice that led to <a idref="sect140">Section 140</a> to lead to <a idref="sect252">Section 252</a> instead. If you read <a idref="sect222">Section 222</a>, you<ch.apos/>ll notice that the choice leading to <a idref="sect252">Section 252</a> is the east track. Indeed, only <a idref="sect140">Section 140</a> may lead you to the bear of which Tracking is supposed to warn you in this section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Replaced <quote>Gallowbrush</quote> with <quote>gallowbrush</quote>: you can't pick it up.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Moved the last choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Moved the last choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-93708-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>border rangers</quote> with <quote>Border Rangers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93708-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Added another <quote>s</quote> after <quote>posses</quote> in the last choice and moved that choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>Graveweed</quote> with <quote>graveweed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Moved the last choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote> and <quote>skill,</quote> with <quote>skill or do not wish to use it,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Replaced <quote>cavemouth</quote> with <quote>cave mouth</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>Gallowbrush</quote> with <quote>gallowbrush</quote>: you can't pick it up.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Split the first sentence which was actually two independent clauses into two sentences to fix it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Moved the last choice (about the Tracking Discipline) into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-134226-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>border ranger</quote> with <quote>Border Ranger</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-134226-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-137630-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magicians Guild of Toran</quote> with <quote>Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137630-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Added <quote> or if you have no Backpack Items</quote> to the second paragraph.<!--ERRTAG-RE-149741-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>one Item is stolen</quote> with <quote>one item is stolen</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149741-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Added <quote>If you wish to remove the pin, turn to 337.</quote> This is the only other possible choice for what is a strangely one-sided option in the original text. More flavourful language might make more sense, such as <quote>If you still wish to remove the pin with your hands,</quote> but to best preserve the integrity of the text, we simply copied the choice from <a idref="sect23">Section 23</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>head first</quote> with <quote>head-first</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-169126-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>tortuous</quote> with <quote>torturous</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-169126-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Moved the last choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Moved the second choice (about the Camouflage Discipline) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Moved the last choice (about the Camouflage Discipline) into the first position.<!--ERRTAG-RE-176294-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>border rangers</quote> with <quote>Border Rangers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-176294-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Deleted a superfluous space after the word <quote>wish</quote> at the very end of the second sentence.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Reversed the order of the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Changed the choice that led to <a idref="sect215">Section 215</a> to lead to <a idref="sect15">Section 15</a> instead. The original choice appears to make sense, but does not work out in a map. The indication that the correct section is really <a idref="sect15">15</a> is the fact that it is not otherwise accessible (though <a idref="sect215">Section 215</a> is) and <a idref="sect15">15</a> leads back to <a idref="sect201">Section 201</a> when taking the opposite direction.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Moved the second choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>) Replaced <quote>war cries</quote> with <quote>war-cries</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Replaced <quote>rough hewn</quote> with <quote>rough-hewn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>) Moved the last choice (about Tracking) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>head first</quote> with <quote>head-first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Moved the last choice (about Tracking) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>spreadeagled</quote> with <quote>spread-eagled</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Capitalized <quote>message</quote> in the second sentence of the second paragraph, since that is how retrievable items are supposed to be represented, and to be consistent with the first time the item is mentioned in this section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>) Replaced <quote>wary</quote> with <quote>weary</quote>. We hardly think Lone Wolf would be wary among the King<ch.apos/>s soldiers.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>wood-smoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-249381-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>tortuous</quote> with <quote>torturous</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-249381-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote><a idref="sect113">Turn 113</a></quote> to <quote><a idref="sect113">Turn to 113</a>.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Graveweed</quote> with <quote>graveweed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Moved the last choice (about Camouflage) into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>, <quote>fnd</quote> with <quote>find</quote>, and <quote>half way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>Graveweed</quote> with <quote>graveweed</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-294191-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>tortuous</quote> with <quote>torturous</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-294191-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Moved the last choice (about Sixth Sense) into the first position, and move the first choice (that leads to <a idref="sect162">Section 162</a>) into the last position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-296725-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>unsheath</quote> with <quote>unsheathe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-296725-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Moved the last choice (about Tracking) into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-301862-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bloods</quote> with <quote>blood</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301862-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) <quote>Vonatar,</quote> from the seventh paragraph, is spelled <quote>Vonotar</quote> in later Lone Wolf books.<!--ERRTAG-RE-306915-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magician<ch.apos/>s guild of Toran</quote> with <quote>Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306915-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-316950-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to 0</quote> with <quote>fall to 0 or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-316950-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect23">Section 23</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect34">Section 34</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect41">Section 41</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect51">Section 51</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect63">Section 63</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect97">Section 97</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect121">Section 121</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect131">Section 131</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect152">Section 152</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect170">Section 170</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect212">Section 212</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect246">Section 246</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect267">Section 267</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect284">Section 284</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect307">Section 307</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect334">Section 334</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect341">Section 341</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map of the Lastlands</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a></li>
- <li><a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect13">Section 13</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect30">Section 30</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect57">Section 57</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect70">Section 70</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect76">Section 76</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect81">Section 81</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect91">Section 91</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect105">Section 105</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect112">Section 112</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect115">Section 115</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect130">Section 130</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect135">Section 135</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect142">Section 142</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect156">Section 156</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect158">Section 158</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect161">Section 161</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect176">Section 176</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect187">Section 187</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect190">Section 190</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect205">Section 205</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect217">Section 217</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect229">Section 229</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect236">Section 236</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect238">Section 238</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect250">Section 250</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect263">Section 263</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect273">Section 273</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect279">Section 279</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect290">Section 290</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect298">Section 298</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect310">Section 310</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect315">Section 315</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect323">Section 323</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect331">Section 331</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-<!-- JC Alvarez<ch.apos/>s illustrations: DO NOT DELETE
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect17">Section 17</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect41">Section 41</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect63">Section 63</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect74">Section 74</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect97">Section 97</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect102">Section 102</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect121">Section 121</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect131">Section 131</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect140">Section 140</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect153">Section 153</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect170">Section 170</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect172">Section 172</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect187">Section 187</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect207">Section 207</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect263">Section 263</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect289">Section 289</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect297">Section 297</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect342">Section 342</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect350">Section 350</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map of the Lastlands</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect6">Section 6</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect30">Section 30</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect82">Section 82</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect91">Section 91</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect100">Section 100</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect113">Section 113</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect215">Section 215</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect221">Section 221</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect236">Section 236</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect242">Section 242</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect253">Section 253</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect267">Section 267</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect276">Section 276</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect305">Section 305</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect317">Section 317</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect323">Section 323</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect335">Section 335</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
--->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
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-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.13 2005/10/09 14:26:23 angantyr
-Corrected the last oversights and issues found by Simon. Ready to publish!
-
-Revision 1.12 2005/10/01 21:32:17 angantyr
-Fixed some recent errata and added/updated footnote entries having to do
-with insufficient WILLPOWER. Also made some small illustrations adjustments.
-
-Revision 1.11 2005/08/21 20:41:53 angantyr
-Added/modified footnotes and modified small illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.10 2005/08/14 19:38:21 angantyr
-Corrected various *ne issues.
-
-Revision 1.9 2005/08/12 23:23:51 jonathan.blake
-Minor updates and illustration corrections.
-
-Revision 1.8 2005/08/10 18:42:03 jonathan.blake
-Added small illustration 8 to Section 148.
-
-Revision 1.7 2005/07/04 14:53:54 jonathan.blake
-Added copyright notices and biography for Paul Bonner.
-
-Revision 1.6 2005/06/27 17:21:02 jonathan.blake
-Reordered the small illustration list and fixed the link to Section 161 in that same list
-
-Revision 1.5 2005/06/25 23:45:08 jonathan.blake
-Added illustration markup in Powers section
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/04/21 15:52:00 jonathan.blake
-Secondary illustrations placed. Replacement illustration for section 264 commented out. Illustration Transcription credit needs placing.
-
-Completed primary illustration information. Added commented notes for secondary illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/11 20:19:27 angantyr
-Initial Freepository revision, of the 2004-06-20 version of the file.
-
-Revision 1.17 2003/03/25 21:20:45 jblake
-Included new entities and fixed recently reported errors.
-
-Revision 1.16 2003/03/18 23:59:25 jblake
-Inserted Ian Page bio and revised Joe Dever's.
-
-Revision 1.15 2003/03/18 23:00:00 twolmer
-- Fixed errata and other problems.
-
-Revision 1.14 2003/03/16 06:00:00 twolmer
-- Fixing mistakes & oversights found by Ingo
-
-Revision 1.13 2003/03/12 23:15:00 twolmer
-- Implemented the remaining *errata between sections 40 to 150.
-- Inserted all the footnotes & updated the footnotes list.
-- Fixed two mistakes (missing '(Backpack Item)' for Pestle and Mortar
- somewhere, non-encoded apostrophes in the errata list) by my
- co-implementor
-
-Revision 1.12 2003/03/11 20:19:27 jblake
-Checkin of errata changes.
-
-Revision 1.11 2003/03/11 17:30:30 twolmer
-Checkin of errata corrections.
-2003-03-10:
-- Implemented agreed *ne up to section 150 (including this portion of the
- errata list)
-- Implemented agreed *errata up to section 40
-
-Revision 1.10 2003/03/11 17:28:14 jblake
-Checkin previous to Thomas Wolmer's changes.
-
-Revision 1.9 2003/02/17 16:00:00 twolmer
-2003-02-16:
-- Added achrbpch.gif and removed junk from the action chart section.
-- updated the todo list below
-- fixed the bad silver ring/charm fix (49, 161, errata)
-
-Revision 1.8 2003/02/10 15:30:00 twolmer
-2003-02-09:
-- Fixed long lines that "something" had broken with '!<newline>'
-- Fixed *ne stuff as described by Simon
-- Added missing errata entry for "Shadow Gate" > Shadow Gate in tssf.
-
-Revision 1.7 2003/02/09 16:30:00 twolmer
-updating to current DTD
-2003-02-07:
-- Updated DTD version
-- Moved footnotes to the DTD-prescribed locations
-- Inserted a few more comments
-2003-02-08:
-- Added/fixed one more errata entry (section 21)
-- Added map, sect264.gif and corrected the action chart
-- Updated the todo list below
-
-Revision 1.6 2003/02/09 16:20:52 jblake
-Checkin before Thomas's submission
-
-Revision 1.5 2003/01/18 15:00:00 twolmer
-2003-01-18:
-- inserted blurb and copyright
-- fixed link from Dedication to go to "coming" instead of "tssf"
-- fixed misformed footnotes and added contents to the section 264 footnote, according to how riddle footnotes in the LW books are written
-- fixed the map section title
-- inserted large illustration placeholders (commented out)
-- fixed disordered Errata entries
-
-Revision 1.4 2003/01/12 16:00:00 twolmer
-Checkin of Thomas Wolmer's work
-2003-01-06:
-- changed all raw apostrophes and obsolete "s
-- changed http://www.projectaon.org/ to &link.project.website;
-- changed [removed reference to old staff email] to &link.staff.email;
-- changed ../tfc/title.htm to &link.02tfc;
-- added myself to the XML credits :-)
-- in the meantime, gave the map a slightly more credible title
-- changed some map links from href to idref
-2003-01-11:
-- merged in changes from sanctum copy dated 2003-01-10
-- added some errata comments
-- included Rules For Combat
-- included Combat Rules Summary
-- encoded acute accent in Kleasa - but it is most inconsistently used!
-- included current version of the license
-- added footnotes section content (for the existing footnotes)
-- added table of illustrations contents (map & action charts)
-- included errata list from old HTML version, adjusted to current conventions
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/10/18 16:19:56 jblake
-Fixed organization of Powers and Equipment sections.
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/18 15:35:27 jblake
-Corrected some errors in document organization and fixed indentation.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:20:01 jblake
-Initial revision
-Change Log:
-- inserted front matter sections
- &emdash;did not update acknowledgments
- &emdash;combat Rules not pasted pending validation of work done.
-- pasted empty back matter from TPoT; did not change combat rules here.
-- amended creator short and medium; deleted creator long
-- updated publication date
-- deleted rights information
-- updated for emdash and endash
-- section 13: changed "baited breath" to "bated breath" (which is proper - "bated" in this instance is short for "abated", as in shortened)
-- reformatted "Redeemer" medallion poem to <thought> (from <i>)
-- Section 142: capitalized Jailer's (Keys) (also section 176, 243)
-- section 180: changed markup from <i> to <foreign>
-- Section 221: changed markup on Tanith's spells from <i> to <foreign>
-- changed all instances of " to &(l/r)dquot;
-- Dragon's Teeth and Redeemer in &(l/r)dquot; throughout
-- Section 350: changed markup on <i>Kundi</i> magic to <em>
-
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>Grey Star the Wizard</title>
- <creator class="short">Ian Page and Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Ian Page<br />Illustrated by Paul Bonner<br />Edited by Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.ian.page.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.paul.bonner.bio.gs;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>10</month><day>08</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p><strong>In the World of Lone Wolf a new hero has arisen&emdash;Grey Star the Wizard</strong></p>
- <p>You are Grey Star. From the core of a raging storm you appeared&emdash;a human child, ship-wrecked and orphaned, a gift of hope to the exiled Shianti sorcerers. Ever since that fateful night they have raised you as one of their own, teaching you the mysteries of their magic in preparation for an epic quest.</p>
- <p>The time has now come. You must find the legendary Moonstone and with its power crush the evil Wytch-king of Shadaki. For only you can save the land of your birth from the cruel grip of his empire. But be warned! Ahead lies a terrifying journey into the unknown where survival or death confronts you with every turn of the page.</p>
- <p><strong>The World of Lone Wolf</strong> is an exciting adventure series in which you are the hero, you make the decisions, and you fight the combats using the unique systems included in the book.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Concept copyright © 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.<br />Text copyright © 1985 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Paul Bonner.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Concept copyright © 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk<br />Text copyright © 1985 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Paul Bonner.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Joe Dever,<br />without whom&ellips;</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="coming" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Ryan Cross<br />Max Silvestri</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Replacement Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Christopher Lundgren (map and small illustrations)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Ryan Cross (front matter and sections 1&endash;105)<br />Simon Osborne (sections 106&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Ryan Cross<br />Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
- <!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd> -->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br />Patrick Kalinauskas</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="coming">
- <meta>
- <title>Of the Coming of Grey Star</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a place to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this new-found land.</p>
- <p>To the delight of the Shianti, the race of man first emerged at this time and they watched his early struggle towards civilization with eager concern. Like gods the Shianti seemed to the minds of primitive men. Tall and proud, shining with a radiance that spoke of magic and arcane mystery, the Shianti moved among them and with their powers of wizardry, aided man in his development.</p>
- <p>As the centuries passed, man fell to worship of the magical Shianti and the power of these wizards grew even stronger. With hungry hearts they sought to unlock the mysteries of knowledge, sending their minds into other planes of existence and strange worlds beyond the sphere of the material plane. Their foresight was now unmatched and the power of their thought was mighty indeed. It was at this time that they created the Moonstone. Woven of the very fabric of the astral plane of Daziarn, this translucent gem was the greatest achievement of Shianti wisdom. It was the binding force of all Shianti magic, containing the combined might of all their wizardry, the sum of all their knowledge. The Golden Age of the Shianti had come and the Moonstone was the instrument of their dominion throughout all Magnamund. Man stood as little more than a shadow, blinded by the shining white light of Shianti glory. But, in creating the Moonstone, the unwritten laws of nature had been transgressed. For the Moonstone, like the Shianti themselves, was something outside of man's own world; it defied the natural order laid down by the creators of the Magnamund and disrupted the balance that the gods had designed.</p>
- <p>The Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon and mother of all men, showed herself to the Shianti and spoke to them of the destiny of man: <quote>The children of this world must claim their inheritance. Their time has come and they must learn to stand alone. They are lost in their worship of you and the day draws ever nearer when they will covet the power of the Moonstone.</quote></p>
- <p>And the Shianti said: <quote>Forgive us, Great Goddess, for we intended no harm. We love mankind even as you do. We have sought to do good and protect your children from harm.</quote></p>
- <p>But Ishir replied, <quote>Of this there can be no doubt, but this world is not your realm. Man must be free to pursue his destiny alone, and you must leave, for you trespass on his domain.</quote></p>
- <p>The Shianti were filled with sorrow. They feared a return to the void and to their lonely wandering, and pleaded with Ishir that she might allow them to remain. Ishir was filled with pity for them. She spoke again, saying, <quote>If you are to remain, you must obey my command. You must take a vow never to interfere with mankind's fate. As a token of good faith you must lay aside the Moonstone, and return it to the plane where it belongs.</quote></p>
- <p>Solemnly, the Shianti agreed. The vow was sworn before Ishir, and the Moonstone was returned to the Daziarn. The Shianti then moved south to the Isle of Lorn. They encircled their new home with a web of enchantments, magical mists and mage winds to prevent man from ever finding their place of refuge in the Sea of Dreams. Knowledge of the Shianti faded with time, save in southern Magnamund where it became enshrined in legend, and the worship of them endured. Priests of the Shianti religion preserved their teachings and patiently awaited the day when the <quote>ancient ones</quote> would return, bringing with them lasting peace and the blessing of a new golden age.</p>
- <p>Two thousand years strode by and man advanced as Ishir had foretold. He built great cities and cultivated the land; his kingdoms rose and fell; he made war and loved and laughed and became master of his fate. But a new power was emerging in the province of Shadaki. There Shasarak the evil Wytch-king ruled. The black necromancer commanded an army of brutal soldiers and had a devoted following of men who upheld his religion of demonic worship and sacrificial rites. Devotees of the Shianti and other religious cults were persecuted in a merciless purge. Ruthlessly, the Wytch-king destroyed all his opponents and began a terrible war with the peoples of the neighbouring provinces. From the ruins of war Shasarak shaped the Shadakine Empire, subjugating whole nations to his evil rule. As the provinces fell to his might, the Shianti looked on helplessly, bound by their vow to the Goddess Ishir never to interfere in the affairs of man.</p>
- <p>On the night of the crowning of Shasarak as Overlord of the Shadakine Empire, a great storm broke upon the Sea of Dreams, a storm that raged with unnatural intensity. Lashed by wind and rain, illuminated by wild lightning, the waters heaved and danced in fury to the thundering music of the storm, unchecked by even the enchantments of the Shianti. When finally the tempest died, the Shianti looked out in amazement on the shattered hull of a ship drifting towards their shore. Never before had this occurred, for the enchantments and mage winds had kept them secure from the curiosity of man by forcing him to sail close to his own land.</p>
- <p>The Shianti went quickly to the ruined ship where they found only one survivor&emdash;a baby. They perceived the sudden arrival of this human child as a sign of great portent, and they conceived a plan by which they might lawfully aid mankind. They named the orphan child Grey Star, because a star is the symbol of hope in the Shianti faith, and because of the silver streak in the child's jet-black hair. In the shadow of the wrath of the Goddess Ishir, they raised the child as one of their own and taught him their secrets. Diligently they set about their instruction, for their aim was to provide a saviour for mankind. Armed with the might of Shianti wizardry and wisdom, their hope was to create an adversary equal in power to the evil Wytch-king of Shadaki, for they realized that only with the death of Shasarak would man once more be free to determine his destiny.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="coming" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grey Star, trained in the secret arts of a Shianti wizard. Sixteen years have passed since you arrived on the Isle of Lorn, the hidden realm of the Shianti race, when you are called to a meeting of your Shianti masters.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> says Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, <quote>you have been summoned to this meeting so that we may lay before you a quest of great importance. Your people, the race of man, are slaves of an evil tyrant, Shasarak the Wytch-king of Shadaki. He has made pacts with demons and has captured the spirits of the dead who do his bidding as undead slaves. He has the power to control the minds of men; none can resist him and the land of your birth cries out in fear of the cruel hand that crushes its heart. No power remains intact to challenge the might of the Wytch-king. Our ancient vow to the Goddess Ishir forbids us from intervening in the fate of man, and the Moonstone now lies hidden on another plane. We have taught you the ways of Shianti magic in the hope that one day you would take up this quest&emdash;to recover the Moonstone and use its power to destroy the Wytch-king. You are human. No vow prohibits you from leaving the Isle of Lorn, nor are you forbidden to aid mankind in any way you choose. No charge is laid upon you to accept the quest, yet if you refuse, your people will be doomed to a choice between slavery and destruction at the hands of the Wytch-king of Shadaki.</quote></p>
- <p>Bravely and without hesitation, you give Acarya your decision, but your voice trembles as you speak: <quote>I accept the quest of the Moonstone. What must I do?</quote></p>
- <p>There are sighs of relief all round. <quote>You have made us proud this day, son of man,</quote> says Acarya, smiling. <quote>The Moonstone lies hidden in the Daziarn plane, which can only be entered by locating its portal. We know this can be found in the lands of men: it is called the <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>. However, it rarely remains in any one location for more than a day and is invisible to human sight. For this reason you must seek out the Lost Tribe of Lara, a race of primitive but magical creatures we call the Kundi. They possess the gift of astral vision, which enables them to see the Shadow Gate. Once, long ago, the Kundi inhabited the forests and mountains of Lara. Before the Shadakine army invaded the free provinces of the south, they passed through the mountains of Lara, using the Morn Pass. There the Shadakine army were frequently ambushed and delayed by the Kundi, who always disappeared into the safety of the forests before the Shadakine could retaliate. Finally, in desperation, the Wytch-king burnt the forests, and the Kundi were forced to flee. To this day, no one is sure where the Kundi went, and consequently men refer to them as the Lost Tribe of Lara. Your first task is to find the lost tribe and persuade them to guide you to the Shadow Gate. Your training is incomplete but you must begin without delay. The Shadakine Empire now stretches to the very shores of the Sea of Dreams, and the power of the Wytch-king grows with each passing day. Our presence is known to him and his attention is often turned towards us, probing our defences and testing the measure of our powers. He is hungry for new conquest, and though he fears us, the day is sure to come when he will cross the Sea of Dreams to challenge the Shianti.</quote></p>
- <p>Acarya places his hands upon your shoulders and looks deeply into your eyes. <quote>The fate of humanity and of the Shianti depends on the success of your quest. Find the Moonstone, Grey Star.&ellips; You are our only hope; if you fail then all is lost.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="powers" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2"><p>There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1"><p>It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To keep a record of your adventure, use the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Before you set off on your adventure, you must discover how well your Shianti masters have prepared you for your quest by determining your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;your state of mind&emdash;<typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>&emdash;and your physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To do this take a pencil and, with eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have a <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> of 26). If you decide to use a spell or utilize the power of your Wizard's Staff, then you will lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero, you may not use any of your spells<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote" /> or your Wizard's Staff.<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote"/> Lost <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, and it is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to rise above the total with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p>The third number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). If you are wounded in combat, you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure but can never rise above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="powers">
- <meta>
- <title>Magical Powers</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="powers-1-foot" idref="powers-1"><p>If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you start your adventure, your education in the ways of wizardry is incomplete. You have mastered only <em>five</em> of the seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-24101-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24101--> that the Shianti call the <typ class="ital"><!--ERRTAG-RA-24205-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24205--></typ>. The choice of which <!--ERRTAG-RA-24244-->five Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24244--> these are, is up to you. All of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-24205-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24205--> will be of use to you at some point on your quest, so choose them with care. Your survival may depend on the correct use of a <!--ERRTAG-RE-24435-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-24435--> at the right time.</p>
- <p>The seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-24101-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24101--> available to you are listed below. When you have chosen your <!--ERRTAG-RA-24244-->five Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24244-->, enter them in the Magical Powers section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sorcery">
- <meta><title>Sorcery</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="386" height="122" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="sorcery-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="sorcery-ill" class="accent-illustration" />This <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> allows a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than any other Magical Power, and is most effective when your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points are high.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-->, write <quote>Sorcery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="enchant">
- <meta><title>Enchantment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="386" height="130" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="enchant-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="enchant-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-->, write <quote>Enchantment</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="elementl">
- <meta><title>Elementalism</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="386" height="118" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="elementl-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="elementl-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-->, write <quote>Elementalism</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Alchemy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="386" height="121" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="alchemy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="alchemy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />A wizard who possesses the <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e., <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>), or temporarily improve various abilities (e.g., <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>). The use of Alchemy may also allow a wizard to alter the nature of substances (e.g., change lead into gold), but the necessary ingredients and the correct equipment (e.g., a pestle and mortar) must be at hand. The use of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> of Alchemy drains no <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> write <quote>Alchemy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prophecy">
- <meta><title>Prophecy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="386" height="123" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="prophecy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="prophecy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> of Prophecy allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> of Prophecy.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-->, write <quote>Prophecy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psycmncy">
- <meta><title>Psychomancy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="386" height="126" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="psycmncy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="psycmncy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />This <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-->, write <quote>Psychomancy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evcation">
- <meta><title>Evocation</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="386" height="131" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="evcation-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="evcation-ill" class="accent-illustration" />Mastery of this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228--> permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-->, write <quote>Evocation</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="staff">
- <meta><title>Wizard's Staff</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="386" height="120" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="staff-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="staff-ill" class="accent-illustration" />Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="powers-1" idref="powers-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in close combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and multiply the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy, accordingly. For example, if you chose to expend 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on your attack, all enemy <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses would be multiplied by three.</p>
- <p>If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="powers" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-1-foot" idref="equipmnt-1">
- <p>This Special Item can be used in combat as if it were a normal Weapon. The Jewelled Dagger's bonus to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> should only be applied when the Jewelled Dagger is used in combat. You should not use your Wizard's Staff at the same time. This would incur the normal −6 penalty to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for not using your Wizard's Staff.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may decide that the Jewelled Dagger may be wielded together with your Wizard's Staff, and thus confers its bonus in all close combats. This makes the Jewelled Dagger a much more useful item.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-2-foot" idref="equipmnt-2"><p>The bonus to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score provided by the Magic Talisman is added to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score only once and does not prevent your score from falling to zero.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-3-foot" idref="equipmnt-3"><p>If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wear the grey robe and hooded cloak of a Shianti Wizard. Your only weapon is your Wizard's Staff (note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under Weapons). You wear a Backpack containing 4 Meals (note under Meals on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), and you have been given a <a idref="map">map of the Shadakine Empire</a> (note under Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) which you place inside your robe.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen Alchemy as one of your Magical Powers, then you will have a leather pouch for herbs and potions hanging from your belt. The Herb Pouch contains the following:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>2 empty Vials for carrying potions</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Saltpetre</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Sulphur</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>Mark these 4 items in your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Your Herb Pouch will carry a maximum of eight items.</p>
-
- <p>On your last day on the Isle of Lorn, your Shianti Masters offer you the following gifts to aid you in your quest. According to Shianti custom, you may choose one of them. They are:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Jewelled Dagger (Special Item) This adds 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in combat.<a id="equipmnt-1" idref="equipmnt-1-foot" class="footnote"/></li>
- <li>Magic Talisman (Special Item) This adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total.<a id="equipmnt-2" idref="equipmnt-2-foot" class="footnote"/></li>
- <li>Vial of Laumspur (Backpack Item) This restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>When you have made your choice, mark the item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under the headings given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> totals.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Wizard's Staff&emdash;Carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Backpack&emdash;slung over the shoulder.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Jewelled Dagger&emdash;tucked into your belt.</li>
- <li>Magic Talisman&emdash;worn on a chain around your neck</li>
- <li>Vial of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is <em>two</em>. Your Wizard's Staff counts as one weapon.</dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack, When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
-
- <dt>Nobles (Shadakine currency)</dt>
- <dd>These are carried in your the pocket of your robe.</dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
-
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.<a id="equipmnt-3" idref="equipmnt-3-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>Your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> depends on your Wizard's Staff. If you do not possess your Staff when you enter combat you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat without a weapon, deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry <em>two</em> weapons at once.)</dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember that you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at any one time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</dd>
-
- <dt>Currency</dt>
- <dd>The currency of the Shadakine Empire is the Noble, which is a small jade stone. The system of money is alien to the Shianti, and for this reason you begin your adventure with no money. Whenever you kill an enemy, you may take any Nobles belonging to him and keep them in the pocket of your robe.</dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
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- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Grey Star's aim during the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while at the same time losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li>
- <p>Calculate your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total, based on the weapon you are using. (Remember, if you enter combat without your Staff, you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points.)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p><a id="stage3">If you are using your Wizard's Staff</a>, decide how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use. (Remember, you must expend at least 1 point.) Enter this number on your Combat Record in the box marked <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Grey Star (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> 23) is ambushed by a Deathgaunt (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but he can use his Wizard's Staff against the creature as it swoops down on him. He subtracts the Deathgaunt's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −5. (15 − 20 = −5). −5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio. Grey Star decides to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, which is noted on the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> box of the Combat Record.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>When you have decided upon the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use, and have determined your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a> on the inside back cover of the book. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked. (The random numbers appear on the side of the chart.) You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by Grey Star. To calculate the number lost by the enemy, multiply this by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points that Grey Star elected to use. Now you have the final number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Grey Star and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; GS represents points lost by Grey Star.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Grey Star and the Deathgaunt has been established as −5, and Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used as 2. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Grey Star loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Deathgaunt loses 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, multiplied by 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, giving a total of 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in all.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat, and Grey Star's amended <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Grey Star are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Grey Star is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Grey Star proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
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- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Grey Star may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- </section>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="sage">
- <meta>
- <title>Sage Advice</title>
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- <p>You are about to embark on a quest of great peril, for your journey will take you to an unknown land that is dominated by evil. Refer to the <a idref="map">map</a> and make notes as you progress through the story: they are sure to be of great help to you in future adventures.</p>
- <p>You will discover items that could be of help to you on your quest. Some Special Items may aid you in future Grey Star adventures, others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Be cautious in your use of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, as your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is the energy source for your Magical Powers and your Wizard's Staff. A score of zero <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points will leave you weak and vulnerable to attack, unable to offer effective resistance.</p>
- <p>Follow the path of wisdom, Wizard Grey Star. The way of fools is the road to destruction.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
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- <title>Numbered Sections</title>
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- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>It is a grim, chill morning, your last on the Isle of Lorn. With quaking heart, you enter the sacred temple of Amida to receive the silent blessing of your Shianti masters. They stand around you, heads bowed in meditation. At length, the ceremony ends and Maiteya, your old friend and teacher, steps forward, and grasps you firmly by the shoulders. You look into his glittering eyes and see yourself reflected there, for the eyes of the Shianti race are not coloured like man's but have pupils that cast reflections like mirrored glass.</p>
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- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>With quaking heart you enter the sacred temple of Amida</description>
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- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> he says, a warm smile lighting his serene face, <quote>the time has come for you to leave. Far will you travel and perilous is your course. Be not afraid, yet do not fear caution. Though you go with the teaching and blessing of the Shianti and carry the might of the Wizard's Staff, stealth and secrecy will be your allies. Let not courage defeat wisdom. Go now and seek the Kundi race that are called the Lost Tribe of Lara. You are the instrument of our will, bearer of our hope. Ever will your quest be in our minds and hearts.</quote></p>
- <p>Without a word, you turn and leave the temple, not looking back until you reach the shore, where a sail boat awaits you. With a gentle sigh, you bid farewell to the island of your youth and push the little craft into the cold waters of the Sea of Dreams. You jump into the boat and set sail, making a westward course for the distant mainland of the Shadakine Empire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it to aid your voyage, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-52324-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-52324-->, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The way leads south through the farms and paddy fields of the region. The path keeps firmly to the line of the Azan River as it curves towards the great Azagad Gorge, a great pitted canyon of weathered limestone columns. In order to maintain the secrecy of your presence, you avoid the homesteads that nestle by the river.</p>
- <p>You walk for two long days and must consume 2 Meals or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The regulated squares of the rice fields become fewer and fewer, and finally give way to a flat expanse of unyielding plains called the Wilderwastes, which are devoid of human habitation. That night, you make camp on the leeward side of a small outcrop of hills.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24"><link-text>Turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You leave the road, and after travelling a short way through the thickening trees, you discover a small clearing sheltered by a large, overhanging Acacia tree.</p>
- <p>You decide to rest here. You are hungry and must eat 1 Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, and 2 Meals (if you have any left) must be given to Tanith and Shan. (Remember to cross all these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>You have no blankets and dare not start a fire for fear of revealing your hiding place, but fortunately it is a warm night. Shan and Tanith insist that you sleep while they take it in turns to keep watch. Wryly, you point out that it is the first time that they have agreed about anything.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you decide to take up their offer, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you would prefer to take the first watch, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You vault on to the dead tree, using your Staff for support. Hauling yourself to the top, you reach out and grab the thick branch of a Giant Azawood. Your chest contracts with pain every time you draw breath and the humid, fetid air clings to the sides of your throat. Slowly and painfully, you climb the tall tree while the columns of insects march relentlessly towards you, their pincers gnashing and clacking in crazed fury.</p>
- <p>Grimly you ignore the savage pain of your wounded leg. Looking up you gasp with dismay, for a line of Cave Mantiz has somehow gained the branch above your head. Those behind are nearly upon you, and in desperation, you clamber along the nearest branch. The further you crawl along the narrowing tree limb, the greater the swaying of the branch as it bends under your weight.</p>
- <p>You turn to see a line of insects scurrying along the branch towards you: there is no escape. With one last effort of will you use all your remaining <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in an attempt to clear the branch of the Cave Mantiz.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You hurl a bolt from your Staff at the plant that threatens Shan. It is quickly destroyed by the searing blue flame, but the effort has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
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- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
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- <p>Suddenly, you are aware that creepers are clutching at your legs. As you crash to the ground, a tendril coils around your throat and pulls you towards the poison barbs of another Yaku plant. You are being slowly strangled to death and must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You push onwards into the heart of the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote>. The sun beats savagely on your heads. You lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to heat exhaustion before you reach the far side of the gorge and sight the Great Wall of Azakawa.</p>
- <p>In the evening light you regard with awe the towering cliff-face, stretching like a vast curtain of rock from east to west as far as the eye can see.</p>
- <p>You press on, anxious to reach the Azanam by nightfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You learn that the girl's name is Tanith. She is a novice in the ways of witchcraft and is in the service of Mother Magri, her protector and guardian. She is very beautiful and has long, dark, unkempt hair and wild green eyes. <quote>They say that you are a wizard and that you challenged the truthsay of the Kazim Stone,</quote> she says, curiously.</p>
- <p><quote>Of course,</quote> you reply, a little boastfully, wishing to impress this ragged but winsome creature.</p>
- <p><quote>That is very bad,</quote> she says, shaking her head. <quote>Mother Magri will have you tortured. The ways of the Shadaki are very cruel. Tonight, you will be taken to the Darkling Room and you will experience great pain and terror.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Then I must escape this place,</quote> you say, fearfully. <quote>Can you help me?</quote></p>
- <p>Tanith gazes at you, a frightened expression on her face. <quote>No&ellips; No&ellips; The danger&ellips; I cannot&ellips; I dare not!</quote> She takes a dried flower from the pocket of her dress, and sprinkles its powdered petals into your food. <quote>This will help fortify you before your ordeal,</quote> she explains, her voice trembling. <quote>I can do no more.</quote></p>
- <p>She jumps to her feet. <quote>I'm sorry&ellips;</quote> She falters, a longing note in her voice, and then she disappears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
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- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You crawl into the shelter of the tiny cave, scarcely large enough to contain you, and immediately notice a small tunnel leading upwards. The ghostly mist of Lake Shenwu lingers on the cave floor, dimly lighting the rough-hewn ceiling and walls.</p>
- <p>You are tired and need to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to sleep here, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you would rather enter the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Bravely you fight off the soldier Mantiz, but soon the whole nest is upon you and, in a matter of minutes, they have stripped your flesh to the bone.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end tragically, here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You get up and walk over to Tanith, who looks up with a startled expression.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> she gasps, <quote>I&ellips; I could not resist. I am sorry&ellips;</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you have the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Before the Shadakine come any nearer, you loose a bolt of force from your Staff, killing one of them outright. The attack has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The remaining warrior hangs back. At first you think that he has simply lost his nerve, but then notice with sinking heart that more Shadakine are approaching from behind. They are armed with crossbows, which are aimed directly at you.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender or die,</quote> shouts one of the Shadakine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to surrender, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you decide to attack, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to turn and make a run for it, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
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- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect12-1-foot" idref="sect12-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
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- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points<a id="sect12-1" idref="sect12-1-foot" class="footnote" />, you are able to cut a path through the smoking remains of the Yaku. Soon you are completely free of them, and in the fading light you come within sight of the Great Wall of Azakawa.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The forest is very near and it is a dark night. Fortunately, you have not been seen. Diving into the undergrowth at the forest's edge, you lie as still as possible as the Shadakine chariot rattles past at breakneck speed. The vicious blades on the wheel hubs flash as the chariot passes dangerously close to your hiding place.</p>
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- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
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- <p>You wait with bated breath for several minutes after it has passed, but the chariot does not return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>It is a sleep from which you will not awaken. The poisonous mist overwhelms you as you slumber. The cave has become your tomb, and your body will never be found.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
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- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect15-1-foot" idref="sect15-1"><p>The exact nature of this restoration of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is unclear. There is a general consensus that you should multiply your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores by 1.5. I.e. you may add one half of your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points value to your score, remembering that you may not exceed your starting value; and you may add one half of your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> value to your score, irrespective of whether this exceeds your starting value.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
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- <data>
- <p>You leave the Chansi Hills far behind and cross the Suhni River once more, following its winding course through the dense forest. Tanith continues to summon small game, a sight which you still find disturbing. Shan leads you through the forest, but this time you encounter no Shadakine patrols.</p>
- <p>You are not required to exert any Magical Power and may restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to the value of one half your current totals. (Remember that unlike your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total, your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total may never exceed the number with which you started your adventure.)<a id="sect15-1" idref="sect15-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you agree to the paltry price of 20 Nobles, the old man brightens visibly. He hands you the 20 jade stones and you place them in the pocket of your robe. Mark these on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>You try to coax some information from him and ask about the legend of the Lost Tribe of Lara. However, he is reluctant to talk, looking away from you and shifting uneasily from one foot to the other, seemingly anxious to be gone.</p>
- <p><quote>Try the Inn of the Laughing Moon at the end of yonder street,</quote> he mutters finally. <quote>You'll find plenty of traveller's talk there.</quote></p>
- <p>Following the direction of his finger, you see a dark, narrow street leading from the harbour area. When you turn back to face him, you find that you are alone. The old man has disappeared into the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you want to enter the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you would rather explore the harbour front, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You step into the thick, muddy water and immediately scream in pain. Your flesh feels as if it is on fire. You fall head first into the poisonous waters of Lake Shenwu, and in a matter of minutes, you have drowned.</p>
- <p>Lake Shenwu has claimed another victim, and you have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It appears your new companions put great faith in your leadership; a faith that is only slightly shaken when you admit that you have very little idea of where to go. You explain that your quest is to find the Lost Tribe of Lara (though you do not tell them its origin or true purpose), and suggest that Shan guides you. <quote>There is no obligation upon you to remain with me, though,</quote> you tell Tanith and Shan. <quote>You are free to do as you please.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I, for one, have no other place to go,</quote> says Tanith. <quote>Mother Magri was a cruel mistress and I would gladly aid any opponent of the rule of the Wytch-king and his servants.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And I, too,</quote> says Shan. <quote>But which way shall we go? We must keep moving, for it is certain that the Shadakine are searching for us.</quote></p>
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- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>There is a pause while you all consider the problem</description>
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- <p>There is a pause while you all consider the problem. Finally you ask if they have any suggestions. Shan's advice is to journey south to the Azanam, which he believes to be the most likely haunt of the lost tribe, and he offers to guide you there.</p>
- <p><quote>But if you are wrong,</quote> says Tanith, <quote>we will have journeyed far and into great danger unnecessarily. We need guidance. Three days' travel to the north of here lives Jnana the Wise, a hermit sage, <quote>He Who Serves No Master</quote>. I can take you to him.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you have the Medallion of the <quote>Redeemer</quote> <em>and</em> the Vial of Pink Liquid, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you decide to take Shan's advice, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you wish to seek the counsel of Jnana the Wise, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel is very narrow and you have to crawl on your hands and knees. It slopes gently upwards, and as you continue, your body is squeezed tighter and tighter between the smooth stone walls. You feel that you must soon suffocate in the claustrophobic darkness. Then, finally and with great relief, you reach the end of the tunnel and pull yourself through, panting and sweating.</p>
- <p>It is still pitch dark, but you are able to stand, and you sense that you are in some kind of cavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you have a Torch and Tinderbox and wish to light the Torch in order to take a look around, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you would rather exert 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to create a small glow from your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you do not have either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-69543-->these items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-69543-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are left with only seconds in which to regret your foolish decision. The Shadakine warriors do not feel the least compunction about shooting a man in the back, and your body is soon fatally punctured by a crossbow bolt.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You journey along the road and, to Shan's surprise, discover that it is deserted. <quote>I can't understand it,</quote> he says, puzzled. <quote>This road is usually teeming with traders.</quote></p>
- <p>You have been walking for three hours when you sight a wagon parked by the roadside. A group of men are sitting around a camp fire near a small grove of trees. <quote>Wait here,</quote> says Shan. <quote>I'll see if I can get some information out of these merchants about the road that lies ahead.</quote></p>
- <p>He returns shortly, carrying a short sword. He smiles broadly. <quote>A bargain,</quote> he says. <quote>Only 5 Nobles. It must be worth at least 20. Always ready to strike a bargain with a fool,</quote> he beams.</p>
- <p><quote>What about the road?</quote> asks Tanith, impatiently. <quote>Why is it empty?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The Shadakine are searching for us,</quote> he replies. <quote>The roads and bridges have been closed until they discover us. These merchants were stranded and have made camp.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We'll have to keep to the cover of the forest from now on,</quote> you say, worried. You enter the forest and continue your journey cautiously.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run up the curving tunnel but are forced to stop after a little way. The low-ceilinged passage is now in total darkness, and you cannot even see your hand stretched out before your face.</p>
- <p>If you have a Torch and Tinderbox, you may light the Torch to help you to see your way. If you do not have a Torch, or would prefer not to use it, you may expend 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point creating a light from the tip of your Wizard's Staff. This light will last until you extinguish it, and you will not have to use any more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to keep it alight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you choose to continue in darkness, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose to light your way, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stepping as lightly as you can, you turn right, with Shan following close behind. At the end of the corridor are two stairways&emdash;both leading upwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-72876-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72876--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>. (Note this section number first as you will need to return to it later.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to take the left stairway, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to take the right stairway, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall into an uneasy sleep in which you are troubled by strange dreams. You wake with a start in the middle of the night to see Tanith crouched over the dying embers of the campfire, which glows with a dull, yellow light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to investigate, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to pretend that you are sleeping, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the small antechamber. It was here that Mother Magri subjected you to the test of truth, using the Kazim Stone. The terrible, glowing sphere stands in the centre of the empty room on a small table; it is giving off a faint light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you wish to take the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to leave the antechamber immediately, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Glancing behind, you notice a small, weasel-faced man ducking in and out of the shadows cast by the flickering torchlight. You are being followed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to act as if nothing has happened, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to confront the weasel-faced man, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you would prefer to leave the market square and make a run for it, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your Staff still crackling with wild energy, illuminating the alleyway, you turn around and run towards the narrow street for all you are worth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In one swift, fluid movement, you rise to stand upon the shoulders of those who bear you. The mob lets out a rousing cheer that peters into silence as you dive into the mass of people packed tightly behind you. Your fall is cushioned by their bodies, and unharmed, you quickly scramble to your feet.</p>
- <p>You hear the unmistakable sound of people crying out in pain as two Shadakine warriors beat a bloody path through the human wall that separates them from you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to aid the people you have just deserted, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you would rather escape under the cover of the ensuing chaos, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the river begins to narrow, the once clear waters of the Azan River become a murky brown. Close to the banks, there are many shallow inlets where stagnant pools and swamps are overgrown with clumps of rope-like tendrils. These tendrils form the branches of a large plant called the Yaku. The tendrils are sensitized vines that snake across the ground towards a pool or into the main river, for the rest of the limestone canyon is arid. At the heart of the Yaku plant is a cluster of sharp points, and Shan warns you to keep well clear of these poisoned barbs.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Stagnant pools and swamps are overgrown with clumps of rope-like tendrils</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="602"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="602"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>It becomes increasingly hard to remain close to the river's edge without clusters of Yaku tendrils blocking your path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to move further away from the Azan River and the difficult ground that borders it, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you would prefer to keep to the river, thus following a direct path to the Wall of Azakawa and the cloud forests of the Azanam that lie beyond, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect30-1-foot" idref="sect30-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is impossible to see which Yaku stem the tendrils are attached to, so you attack the wriggling cluster with a wide, sweeping stroke of your Staff across them all; you exert 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.<a id="sect30-1" idref="sect30-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>You have made the right decision; you have severed all the tendrils that threatened you. You are safe&ellips; for the moment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are very tired. Wearily, you close your eyes and call on the Elementals for their aid. Your chant ends, and at first, it seems that you have failed. Then you hear the sound of rushing water: a gigantic wave rises up further along the river. The foaming, white crest of the wave towers above the bridge in the shape of an outstretched hand. The watery fingers clench to form an immense fist that smashes on to the bridge, crushing it as though it were made of matchsticks, and drenching the three of you, as it washes the bridge downstream.</p>
- <p><quote>Such power!</quote> Tanith exclaims, her eyes shining with childish delight and admiration.</p>
- <p>The spell has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Skilfully you wield your Staff, shielding yourself from the creature's deadly touch as it passes overhead. You watch as the Quoku climbs in the sky, flying in a wide circle to position itself for its next attack.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the Quoku dives towards Shan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to attempt a long-range attack on the Quoku, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to try to defend Shan from the attack, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith is talking quietly, addressing her words to the fire. <quote>No Mother, I will not&ellips; I cannot&ellips;</quote> A diminutive figure shivering by the dwindling fire, she is obviously greatly distressed. Perhaps her conscience troubles her?</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to investigate, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to leave Tanith to the privacy of her own thoughts, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The alley is deserted. Peering into the dark shadows, you step cautiously into the darkness. Suddenly you are grabbed from behind and a knife is held at your throat.</p>
- <p><quote>Turn around,</quote> a voice whispers, menacingly. <quote>Slowly, or I'll cut your throat. Then hand over your money.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly you turn to face the shabby thief.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you do not have any money, or have money but do not wish to hand it over, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you prefer to hand over your money, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the flaring light, you see a narrow chamber with smooth walls. It looks like neither a natural cavern, nor like anything a man might carve. The floor is strewn with dead leaves, twigs, a few scattered bones and ancient dust. Leading from the cavern is another tunnel, slightly wider than the one you have just come through. A cool breeze is coming from it, and freshens the musty air.</p>
- <p>You are falling asleep on your feet, and throwing caution to the wind, you decide that you will rest here, for the cavern looks as if it has been deserted for a very long time. You extinguish your light and lie down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>My name is Tanith,</quote> the girl announces. <quote>What's yours?</quote> You tell her your name, still stunned at her apparent coldness.</p>
- <p><quote>I am learning the ways of witchcraft in the service of Mother Magri,</quote> she continues. <quote>She says you're a wizard; is that true?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Of course,</quote> you reply, a little boastfully. For some reason, you wish to impress this beautiful, young girl with wild, unkempt hair&emdash;all ragged and black&emdash;and penetrating, green eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>That is very bad. Mother Magri will have you tortured as an enemy of the Wytch-king. She will take you to the Darkling Room.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Then I must escape,</quote> you blurt out. <quote>Can you help me?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I've often dreamed of leaving here,</quote> she says wistfully. <quote>Perhaps you could take me with you?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes&ellips; yes,</quote> you say, willing her to aid you. She pauses, a blank expression on her face. <quote>But it would take more than a boy and a fat man to do that,</quote> she snaps angrily, suddenly breaking into peals of girlish laughter. And she flounces away wearing a smug expression, and leaving you with your hopes shattered.</p>
- <p><quote>She must have come to taunt us,</quote> says Shan. <quote>Such spiteful people these Shadakine!</quote> You finish your food and try to conceive a plan that will gain your freedom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to try to sleep in order to build up your strength, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you do not wish to sleep, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A quick search of the body reveals the Jailer's Keys (a Special Item which you carry in your hand) and 3 Nobles. You may keep <!--ERRTAG-RE-84614-->these items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-84614--> and also his Dagger if you wish. Remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>There is no other exit from this room and you head back towards the other stairway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days you trace a path along the Suhni River as it winds through the heart of the forest. You carry no provisions, but Tanith is able to provide food for you all. She displays an uncanny control over animals, calling to the mesmerized creatures in a strange language and then coolly wringing their necks.</p>
- <p>On your journey, you manage to avoid the frequent Shadakine patrols that dog your path, and as you are not required to use any magic, you may restore 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current totals.</p>
- <p>You discover clumps of the Laumspur herb growing along the river and decide to pick some of it. If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, you may store it in your Herb Pouch. Remember to mark the Laumspur on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Swallowing it will regain 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you do not have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-86045-->Power of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-86045-->, you must swallow the Laumspur while it is fresh to regain 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and may not store it.</p>
- <p>As you are picking the Laumspur, three Shadakine warriors burst out of the forest. You have been ambushed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moving under cover of the forest's edge, Shan leads the way along a worn path. Unexpectedly, he stops, head tilted to one side, listening intently. <quote>What is it?</quote> you whisper.</p>
- <p><quote>I heard a shout, ahead of us. Listen!</quote> In the distance, you can hear angry voices and the ring of steel against steel. Cautiously, you creep forward and peer through the dense undergrowth.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The knights are defending a heavily laden wagon</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="622"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="622"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Six armoured knights, clad in blue and red robes, are battling with twenty Shadakine warriors. The knights are defending a heavily laden wagon that stands in the middle of a wide stone bridge. Perched on the wagon sits an unarmed man, richly clothed, looking fearfully upon the battle. He and his knights are outnumbered. Though skilled swordsmen, as the many Shadakine dead attest, they are hard-pressed, and have little chance of holding the bridge.</p>
- <p><quote>They don't stand a chance,</quote> you murmur.</p>
- <p><quote>But these are no ordinary soldiers,</quote> replies Shan. <quote>Look at the design on their shields&emdash;a mountain crowned with two stars. They bear the Royal Arms of Durenor. These are Knights of the White Mountain, warrior lords of Durenor, a free kingdom in the far north.</quote></p>
- <p>If you are to continue your journey south along the Azan River, you will have to somehow pass this battle without the Shadakine seeing you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to go to the aid of the Knights of the White Mountain, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to try to skirt around the battle and cross the road, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dash away from the harbour and along the narrow street, darting like a hunted beast among the doorways and shadows. Tall warehouse buildings rise up on either side of the street, and the only sound you can hear is that of your own footsteps.</p>
- <p>You have run only a short way when you reach a crossroads. The right and left turnings lead into alleyways, while the narrow street continues ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to turn into the left alleyway, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to turn into the right alleyway, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you would rather continue along the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are running down a long winding passage. There are many doors leading from the corridor but you have no way of knowing which to open. You look ahead and a chill runs down your spine. At the far tend of the passage you see someone approaching, wielding a tall staff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are now held by an ever-increasing number of creepers that curl around your body. With cries of frustration, Shan slices away the creeper that is wound round your neck and arms. But he fears he is fighting a futile battle; for the poison barbs of the Yaku plant wave inches from your face. You are both enmeshed in a web of tightening vines. To your dismay, you lose hold of your Wizard's Staff, and watch helplessly as it rolls out of reach. You must make a life or death decision and only seconds remain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you possess the Jewelled Dagger of your Shianti Masters, and wish to strike at the Yaku plant before it impales you upon its poison barbs, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you possess any other Weapon (other than your Staff) and wish to attack the crimson heart of the Yaku, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to tell Shan to plunge his sword into the Yaku plant, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect43-1-foot" idref="sect43-1"><p>You cannot keep Shan's Backpack. Any items you decide to keep must be transferred to your own Backpack, or perhaps to your Herb Pouch if you have one and want to keep the Small Vial of Laumspur.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lake is very wide. The roar from the Shenwu Falls is deafening. The waters fall hundreds of feet before cascading into the swirling currents below. Beyond the area of the waterfall the lake is strangely still. A writhing mist hangs suspended in the air. The mist is strangely luminous and allows you to see the foul yellow water beneath. Around the edge of the lake, the ground is completely bare; you cannot see a single living thing. You empty Shan's Backpack and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Small Vial of Laumspur (restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>2 Torches</li>
- <li>Coil of Rope</li>
- <li>Tinderbox</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of <!--ERRTAG-RE-92578-->these items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-92578-->, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<a id="sect43-1" idref="sect43-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <p>The mist gives off an acrid, choking vapour that racks your lungs. Coughing, you survey the sheer cliffs, towering ramparts of stone that stretch to the east and west in a vast semicircle. Directly above these cliffs is the Azanam, your final goal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-93067-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93067--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to explore the basin and the area around Lake Shenwu, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to try to find a way of scaling the cliffs, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an almighty blow, you cleave the skull of the Quoku in two. It emits a chilling shriek and falls back, writhing and twitching for a few seconds before finally expiring. But it is a hollow victory, for the lifeless body falls on to Shan's prone form.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to move the corpse of the Quoku, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you would rather continue your journey, skirting around the perilous ravine, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb a short flight of stairs. At the top of the stairs is a closed wooden door. You can hear muffled conversation and sporadic laughter coming from behind the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to open the door, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to head back and take the other stairway, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expending 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you cause the tip of your Wizard's Staff to glow; its eerie light sends shadows dancing across the walls and ceiling of the cavern. You see that the cavern is empty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35"><link-text>Turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Looking up, you see that the tunnel leads to an almost vertical shaft; the glare of sunlight blinds your eyes. Cursing breathlessly, you jump up and catch hold of a thick plant root protruding from the earth wall of the shaft and begin to climb. The narrow shaft is barely wide enough to let you pass and the climb is difficult and slow. Halfway up the shaft you cry out: you are stuck in a bottle-neck and can no longer move.</p>
- <p>The first of the enraged soldier Mantiz enters the shaft, and reaching out with its extended forelegs, it makes a grab for your flailing legs. A slash of burning pain ravages your right leg as a spurt of acid strips your calf to the bone. You lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>With a desperate cry, you squeeze yourself through the gap and pull yourself free. Your leg is numb and hinders your climb, but with a superhuman effort you reach the top of the shaft. You have reached the surface at last and find yourself in a large clearing, surrounded by towering trees and dense, green foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bridge covers a large area and the magic shield that you place over it costs you 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The extreme mental exertion has cost you dear. Your legs buckle under and you fall to the ground, barely conscious. Tanith and Shan pull you to your feet and half carry you into the shelter of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a few deep breaths and then run towards the ravine. You hurl yourself off the edge, high into space, and sail over the yawning chasm. With limbs flailing and hands reaching out desperately for the other side, you begin to descend.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have the Silver Charm of Jnana the Wise, you may add 1 to this figure.</p>
- <p>If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is greater than 10, you may add 2 to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If it is 7&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can approach the main harbour gate, Shadakine war chariots thunder into the harbour area. The crowd scatters in terror, but the people cannot escape the rotating blades of the chariot wheels. Horrified, you watch as the Suhnese people are ruthlessly mown down by the Shadakine.</p>
- <p>Suddenly one of the chariots swerves and hurtles towards you. You hear the insane laugh of the driver, and as he draws closer, you see that his eyes have no pupils.</p>
- <p>You have barely a few seconds in which to act before the chariot is upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to dive into the narrow street on your right, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look down and notice that the Kazim Stone lies in the fire. Tanith stole it from your Backpack while you slept. (Delete this Backpack Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You gaze into the Stone and see the haggard face of Mother Magri staring back at you. <quote>Now I have you, you young fool,</quote> she hisses.</p>
- <p>The glow of the fire grows more intense and bursts into renewed flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102"><link-text>Turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake the following morning, drained and depressed. Your traumatic experience has caused you to lose 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point during your sleep.</p>
- <p><quote>We must go on,</quote> insists Shan, <quote>to make her sacrifice worthwhile.</quote></p>
- <p>You know he is right, and wearily, you get to your feet and pull on your Backpack to continue your journey. <quote>We will reach the Azagad Gorge this afternoon if we set a good pace,</quote> says Shan.</p>
- <p>As the sun reaches its zenith, you notice how hot and humid the atmosphere has become. The plains of the Wilderwastes are now barren: a dry desert of ugly rocks and boulders stretches before you. You have many more days of travelling ahead of you and your food supplies are running low. The Azan River begins to narrow as you draw nearer to Lake Shenwu, the source of the river, lying beneath the Wall of Azakawa and the Shenwu Falls. Beyond that, lies the Azanam, home of the Lost Tribe of Lara.</p>
- <p>Shan draws your attention to a wooden shack to the east. It is a strange sight so far from civilization.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to investigate, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you would rather continue your journey, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You do not wish to arouse the fisherman's suspicions any further. For this reason, you are unable to bring about the necessary state of meditation that enables you to see into the future. Instead, you reach out with your senses in an effort to determine the fisherman's true nature. Totally unaware of your intentions, he continues to haggle over the price of the boat as you probe the invisible aura that surrounds him.</p>
- <p>You sense that the one-eyed man means you no harm. He is the harbour watchman, a petty con-man who prowls round the harbour, spying on the illegal actions of smugglers and shady traders who he then forces to buy his silence. He is offering you half the true value of your boat. However, your <!--ERRTAG-RE-101780-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101780--> tells you that you might be glad of some money in the near future, and this may be your only chance of gaining some. You allow the watchman to cheat you.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head east, away from the line of the Azan River and into the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote>. Further from the river, the limestone pinnacles are spaced at closer intervals, and you are forced to weave a zigzagging path between them. Though the ground is free from foliage, your progress is just as difficult as before, since it proves impossible to walk in a straight line for more than twenty paces before a stony column of huge, wind-worn rock blocks your path.</p>
- <p>After an hour, you become lost in the dense maze of impassive rocks. The afternoon sun beats down mercilessly, as it slowly crosses the sky.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-102996-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102996--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you wish to turn left, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to turn right, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you wish to continue straight ahead, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait in silence, pondering the best course of action. A detachment of five Shadakine warriors, carrying crossbows, comes marching along the road; they halt to load their weapons only a few yards in front of you. If they should use their weapons against the brave knights on the bridge, the knights will have no hope of beating them off.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you possess the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it to aid the beleaguered knights, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you wish to attack the crossbowmen with your Wizard's Staff at long range, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you would prefer to make a surprise attack on the crossbowmen, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still held above the heads of the crowd, you close your eyes and try to concentrate. The noise and confusion about you makes visualization very difficult and you must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points before the illusion is complete. To your horror, you see that the two Shadakine warriors have begun to hack a bloody path through the mob towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you wish to continue with your spell of Enchantment, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to break your trance and come to the aid of the defenceless crowd, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect57-1-foot" idref="sect57-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively Shan has thrown himself to the ground. With your Staff thrust up high into the air you tear a hole in one of the Quoku's wings; it shrieks with pain before crashing to the ground. Your attack has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="sect57-1" idref="sect57-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to attack the Quoku again, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you wish to escape, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days, you head north towards the Chansi Hills. During this time you regain 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The dense forest provides ample cover for your journey and you manage to avoid the occasional Shadakine patrols quite easily.</p>
- <p>You carry no provisions but Tanith is able to feed the whole party. Demonstrating an uncanny mastery over animals, she is able to summon small birds down from the trees and rabbits from their burrows. Then, after calling the mesmerized creatures to her, she coolly wrings their necks. Considering her part done, she insists that Shan should do the cooking and a disgruntled Shan agrees.</p>
- <p>Coming at last to the forest's edge, where it borders on the Chansi Hills, you discover clumps of wild Laumspur growing along the river bank. If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, you may take some of the Laumspur and store it in your Herb Pouch. (Remember to mark this clump of Laumspur on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) Swallowing it will enable you to regain 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you do not have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-107136-->Power of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107136--> and wish to regain 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, you must eat the Laumspur while it is fresh; you cannot take it with you.</p>
- <p>You find a shallow ford crossing the Suhni River and stop to stare at the solemn hills ahead. <quote>We must go up into the hills to find the cave of Jnana,</quote> says Tanith.</p>
- <p>Suddenly Shan cries out, <quote>The enemy is upon us; look&emdash;the Najin are coming.</quote> He points up at the sky.</p>
- <p>Looking up, you see a cloud of ape-like beasts with grey skins and black, bat-like wings that propel them towards you at great speed. <quote>Do not fear,</quote> Tanith says rushing forward.</p>
- <p><quote>But Grey Star,</quote> says Shan, <quote>these monsters are slaves of Shasarak, the Wytch-king. We are betrayed.</quote></p>
- <p>The Najin swoop towards you, flying low along the line of the hills.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to attack the Najin, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to wait for them to draw closer, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are hungry and must eat a Meal now or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Finally, you lie down and quickly fall into a deep sleep. The night passes without incident, and your refreshing rest restores to you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Then, you are woken by a strange sound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65"><link-text>Turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without stopping for breath, you head up the next flight of stairs. You can hear Shan puffing and blowing behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to take the right-hand stairway, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to take the one on the left, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you look up, and for the first time you notice several squat shapes perched on top of the limestone columns nearby. <quote>Quoku,</quote> whispers Shan. <quote>I thought they were a myth.</quote></p>
- <p>The Quoku stare with unblinking, bulbous eyes. Like giant toads, their mottled, green skin is covered with ridges and warts, and their pale throats expand like bubbles as they emit their sonorous croaking call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to try to slip past the Quoku without disturbing them, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to attack the Quoku perched on the column nearest to you, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you wish to make a run for it, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With heavy heart you greet the dawn. The old Shianti priest lies dead upon his pallet. After a short time the young girl who brought you food appears. <quote>Here&emdash;eat,</quote> she says, poking another bowl of rice through the bars of the dungeon door.</p>
- <p><quote>The old priest,</quote> you say, pointing to his body, <quote>is dead.</quote></p>
- <p>The girl glances towards the old man. <quote>I will tell Mother Magri. Perhaps she will want to steal his soul while it still lingers here,</quote> she says, matter-of-factly. <quote>He was a silly priest. He deserved to die. But, perhaps my mistress can put him to some useful task.</quote></p>
- <p>You and Shan stare at her, stunned at the coolness of her tone and the casual way in which she dismisses the torment of a man's soul. She stares back, unconcerned; her face is a picture of childish innocence, and she seems unaware that she has said anything shocking.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to attempt a conversation with the girl, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If not, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Fool!</quote> she hisses. <quote>You have sealed your doom and I will not be a witness to it.</quote></p>
- <p>She turns and leaves the circular chamber as it fills with a great number of Shadakine warriors. You are hopelessly outnumbered and the exit is blocked. Without your Staff you are powerless to resist the cruel Shadakine, who mercilessly cut you down where you stand.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mind probes into the near future. Your Magical Power tells you that there is danger lurking in the alleyways. You must continue along the narrow street to avoid it.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can hear a scuttling noise and the sound of a heavy object being dragged along the ground. Hurriedly you jump to your feet. By the pale light that filters through the tunnel you crawled through, you can see another tunnel leading out of the chamber. The sound is coming from there.</p>
- <p>You dash to the far wall, pressing your body close to the tunnel entrance. You hope to be able to surprise whoever, or whatever, is approaching. It is you, however, who is surprised. After a few seconds a huge insect, at least three feet long and tugging laboriously at the carcass of a dead reptile, clambers into the chamber. Intent on its labour it does not notice you, poised to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you are wearing the Yabari Ointment, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If not, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Even before you can lift your Staff, a crossbow bolt flies past your head and plunges into the neck of the Shadakine warrior, who falls with a surprised look on his brutal face. The officer and his men hoot with laughter at the plight of their own comrade.</p>
- <p>While the first crossbowman reloads, the other looses a bolt at you. The arrow burrows painfully into your shoulder and you lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. At the expense of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you fire a blast at the bowman; he falls dead. The first crossbowman has now reloaded and you know that the odds on your surviving another bolt are very slim. Even if you manage to kill the crossbowman, you will have to fight the officer, and already your shoulder is beginning to stiffen. You are unlikely to be able to fight well in your present state.</p>
- <p>You surrender to the Shadakine, throwing yourself at their mercy; a quality they seem rather short of.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you charge at her, she smiles bitterly. <quote>Fool,</quote> she says; <quote>you have sealed your doom.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can reach her, she slips through the exit. You make to follow, but the room suddenly fills with Shadakine warriors. They pour into the room in overwhelming numbers through the trap door and the exit that Tanith has used.</p>
- <p>The last sound you hear is the voice of Mother Magri ordering your death from within the safety of their ranks.</p>
- <p>You have failed. Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The waters of Lake Shenwu give off a foul stench. The heady vapours of this strange, yellow lake are thick and cloying. Your lungs feel tight and your breathing is laboured.</p>
- <p>You came across the remains of a creature you do not recognize. Its bones have been stripped bare, how you cannot guess, for there is no sign of life. Your head feels heavy and your vision is blurring. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to continue your exploration of Lake Shenwu, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you would prefer to climb the slope of the shallow basin and survey the base of the Wall of Azakawa, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall asleep once more; this time you will never waken. Something dark and terrible leaps from the fire, and steals your life and soul.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest; your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your thoughts in meditation, weaving a web of enchantment and attempting to influence the minds of the Shadakine warriors who are fighting on the bridge. Suddenly the Shadakine officer in command turns and sees the crossbowmen. His face contorts in fury. He barks a command and ten of his warriors turn and charge towards the crossbowmen who look on in amazement. You have created the illusion that the crossbowmen are Knights of the White Mountain and, believing that the enemy are challenging their rear, the Shadakine have turned to attack this new threat. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>With a blood-curdling cry, the Shadakine warriors hurl themselves at the line of crossbowmen who instantly loose a volley of crossbow bolts, killing five of their fellow countrymen. The crossbowmen then throw down their weapons and flee along the road with the remainder of their outraged comrades chasing at their heels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you now wish to fire at the remaining Shadakine warriors on the bridge from the safety of your hiding place, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to charge into the fray, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The thief lies dead at your feet. After searching the body, you find your money plus another ten Nobles, which you may keep. You may also keep the thief's Dagger. (Don't forget to mark these items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>You leave the alley and return to the narrow street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The insect is unaware of your presence, and you keep very still. It continues to drag the reptile carcass across the room. Finally it disappears through the narrow entrance of the other tunnel, and you breathe a sigh of relief. You seize this opportunity and scramble up the larger of the two exits and into another sloping tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the remaining contents of the vial, you burn away the lock of the door. You no longer have any Ezeran Acid and must discard the contaminated vial. (Delete Ezeran Acid from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>The lock falls away, and cautiously, you push open the door to reveal another landing. You step on to the landing and face two more stairways, one leading to the left and one to the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-120046-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120046--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>. (Note down this section number first as you will need to return to it.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to take the left-hand stairway, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to take the right-hand stairway, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call encouragingly across to Shan who stares nervously over the edge of the precipice into the deep crevasse. <quote>Come on Shan, its easy. Quick now, there's no time to lose!</quote></p>
- <p>Shan returns your gaze with a doubtful expression on his face. He shakes his head. <quote>I can't do it,</quote> he says, weakly; <quote>I'll never make it across.</quote></p>
- <p>You persuade him to throw his Backpack across to lighten his load, but he still lacks the nerve.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you have a coil of Rope, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If not, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Following the road, you enter the forest. <quote>This road is busy by day,</quote> Shan informs you. <quote>Many merchants and traders use it to reach the Port of Suhn. If we are to hide ourselves and rest, we must leave the road and venture deeper into the forest for safety.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The <quote>pedlar</quote> speaks the truth,</quote> says Tanith, glaring haughtily at Shan, daring him with her eyes.</p>
- <p>Shan turns purple with rage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3"><link-text>Turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a knife flashes at your throat. Raising your Staff, you unleash a blast of energy (costing you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point) that narrowly misses the murderous cut-throat.</p>
- <p>With a yelp of shocked surprise, the cut-throat turns tail and rushes back down the alley. You realize that while you remain here you are in danger. Retracing your steps, you watch him run into the narrow street and turn a corner. You follow the sound of his footsteps for a while, but soon you can hear nothing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab the Kazim Stone and throw open the door of the antechamber. Standing in the circular room you see Tanith the young girl in the service of Mother Magri. <quote>Grey Star,</quote> she says; <quote>at last I've found you.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Beware,</quote> Warns Shan. <quote>She is a Shadakine slave; she cannot be trusted.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to attack the young girl, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to question her, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dust storm continues to rage furiously; it gives no sign of abating. As darkness falls there seems to be no alternative other than to sleep here for the night, and hope that you will be able to continue your journey in the morning. You are hungry and must eat a Meal now or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The night passes without incident and you regain 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The following morning you continue on your way, following the banks of the Azan as it leads through the Wilderwastes and into the Azagad Gorge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gently, you shake the sailor by the shoulder. <quote>Your pardon sir, are you feeling all right?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p>The sailor opens his bleary eyes and frowns at you. <quote>Who wants to know?</quote> he snarls.</p>
- <p>And before you have spoken another word, the angry sailor jumps to his feet and takes a wild swing at you, upturning the table and spilling ale everywhere.</p>
- <p>You are knocked off your feet, and hurled backwards to the floor. You must lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Dazed, you feel someone grab you by the collar and push you through the door. You tumble into the market square outside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Shan at your side, you run to the top of the stairs. Above your head is a trap door. You throw it open and step into a circular room. There are two exits. Through the crack around the door opposite, you can see a faint, yellow glow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to open this door, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you wish to take the other exit, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking careful aim, you send a bolt of white lightning into the backs of the Shadakine crossbowmen, killing two outright at the expense of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The three remaining men look dazed and confused at this surprise attack. Shan can contain himself no longer, and before you can prevent him, he jumps to his feet. Brandishing his sword, he charges towards the remaining crossbowmen, emitting a loud warbling cry. He is so close to them that you dare not risk another long-range assault for fear of killing him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you wish to follow Shan to protect him, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you would rather leave Shan to his fate, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tentatively you push open the door and enter a smoky room. The inn is filled with the sounds of contending voices, shouting drunkards and the laughter of serving girls. The customers are many and varied: merchants, seamen, fishermen and all sorts of travellers rub shoulders here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you have no money to buy a drink, or would prefer to save it, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to buy a drink at the bar, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The insect stops and lifts its head. Its antennae wave in the air, searching all around. Suddenly, it fixes its many-faceted eyes upon you and, before you can react, squirts a jet of brown fluid from a hollow horn on the centre of its head. You dodge to one side and the fluid misses you, hitting the floor. You look down at where it landed and see that it is eating into the stone. The insect opens its pincer-like jaws and drops the reptile corpse. Then, it scuttles back the way it came.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to attack the insect with your Wizard's Staff before it escapes, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to chase after the creature, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In desperation, you raise your Wizard's Staff and unleash a crackling charge of energy that arcs above the heads of the crowd, and into the heart of the nearest Shadakine warrior. Your mind is in turmoil and you exert 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on the attack due to its undisciplined state. The Shadakine warrior screams in pain and falls to the ground; blue smoke coils from the blackened wound in his chest.</p>
- <p>With howls of delight, the crowd surges forward and falls upon the remaining Shadakine warrior as he lashes out desperately all around him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to seize this opportunity to jump to the ground, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you would rather finish off the remaining Shadakine warrior, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake the following morning feeling refreshed after a good night's sleep. Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Both Tanith and Shan have already risen and are waiting expectantly for you to lead the way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You repeat your prophecy to Shan, and taking his arm, you break into a trot, pulling him after you, though he seems to need little encouragement. Unfortunately your sudden movement attracts the attention of the Quoku, and a chorus of loud and rapid croaking fills the evening air.</p>
- <p>The Wall of Azakawa is still many miles away and you pray that you will be able to outdistance the Quoku. Even if you should be able to reach the cliff-face, you know no way of crossing beyond the wall into the Azanam. With a growing dread, you fear that your run will be in vain. Unless you can find somewhere to hide, or think of a swift way of scaling the cliff once you reach it, you will be caught. But despite your doubt, you keep running: you have no choice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a shudder, you step outside the pentacle and speak the sibilant words of the <quote>forbidden tome</quote> known as the <spell>Song of the Dead</spell>. The ghost of the priest sighs and says, <quote>It is done. Take the Amulet from the body of my former life. It will serve as a charm against the evil dead.</quote> You take the Amulet, which hangs by a silver chain around the dead priest's neck, and place it around your own. (Mark this Amulet as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>All is silent. Slowly, the cell grows colder. The sound of distant moaning fills your ears, followed by a mournful wailing that chills the soul, which gradually rises in pitch and volume. The dead have come to claim their vengeance. The use of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-131670-->Power of Evocation<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131670--> has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. A howling wind sweeps through the cell and the door bursts open. You turn and grab Shan's arm. He has stood, pale and rigid with fear, throughout your exchange with the dead.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Shadow forms are flowing out of the walls and floor</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="657"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="657"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Quickly,</quote> you hiss. <quote>Come with me.</quote> You run through the door and into the corridor outside. Shadow forms are flowing out of the walls and floor, and everywhere spirit shapes fly in all directions. You turn to your right and see the horribly mutilated corpse of the jailer. Still clenched in his mortifying fist is a small Dagger. You may take <!--ERRTAG-RE-132686-->this item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-132686--> if you wish. (Remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under the Weapons section.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to take the Jailer's Keys and free the other prisoners on this level, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to take the left stairway without delay, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to take the right stairway, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect88-1-foot" idref="sect88-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt of force that arches through the air into the ranks of Shadakine warriors kills one of them at a cost to you of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The knights gain ground at their opponents' expense due to the confusion of the Shadakine, who are now being attacked from the front and rear.</p>
- <p>The distance over which you are fighting necessitates the use of a great deal of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, and you realize that you can only increase your effectiveness by moving closer to the Shadakine. An attack from the rear at this time would almost certainly turn the battle in your favour. With this in mind, you burst out of the undergrowth and charge into the battle with a fearsome yell. Shan, puffing and panting behind you, swings his sword feebly. The knights on the bridge give a rousing cheer as you appear, and the Shadakine are pushed back as their resistance begins to falter. And then you are upon them: you rain blows in all directions, throwing them into disorder and wounding a warrior at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="sect88-1" idref="sect88-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter how hard you try, you are unable to shake off the man who is following you. Soon he is joined by two Shadakine warriors. You have no alternative but to make a run for it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The campfire bursts into vivid flame, flaring high into the air. Wreathed in the lurid light is the figure of Mother Magri, who intones the words of a spell in a strange, guttural tongue.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> says Tanith, <quote>beware!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you possess the <!--ERRTAG-RE-135449-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135449--> and wish to create a magical shield about yourself, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to attack the figure of Mother Magri, shimmering above the fire, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your Staff down on the creature's unprotected rump. Its legs curl and crumple beneath it. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you kill the insect.</p>
- <p>Close inspection reveals the insect to be a Cave Mantiz. The Cave Mantiz live in colonies below ground in much the same way as their cousins the ants. They burrow their nests from the stone by dissolving it with a potent acid that they store in their bodies. You have entered a Mantiz nest, and despite the perils therein, you are greatly encouraged. If you can find your way through the maze of Mantiz tunnels, you should be able to reach the surface above the Wall of Azakawa and enter the Azanam.</p>
- <p>Your excitement is tinged with apprehension as you continue along a tunnel that is growing darker and darker. If you wish to expend 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point on lighting your Staff, you may: this light will last until you extinguish it without the use of any further <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If you have a Torch and Tinderbox, you may wish to use the Torch for light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you choose to proceed in darkness, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you prefer to light your way, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-137396-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137396--> warns you that you must go left. The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-137498-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137498--> has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Now return to the adventure number you have noted down.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old Shianti priest is about to speak, when he gives a great gasp and dies in your arms. With tears in your eyes, you turn to Shan. <quote>He is dead,</quote> you say sorrowfully.</p>
- <p>The merchant hangs his head. <quote>Then we are doomed,</quote> he groans.</p>
- <p>You sit back, deep in thought. You are tired and quickly fall asleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258"><link-text>Turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect94-1-foot" idref="sect94-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staff held high, spraying magical fire from its tip, you charge the Shadakine with unflinching fury. Shan struggles in your wake.</p>
- <p>The Shadakine warriors are thrown into disorder as they attempt to meet this new threat from the rear. Due to their confusion, the knights are able to press home their advantage, gaining ground on their opponents and raising your spirits with shouts of encouragement. You rain fearful blows in all directions with your Wizard's Staff. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point<a id="sect94-1" idref="sect94-1-foot" class="footnote" />, you fell the nearest Shadakine warrior. Much to his surprise, Shan claims another.</p>
- <p>Tanith now reappears armed with a loaded crossbow. Coolly, she aims it at the Shadakine officer. He falls to the ground dead, a crossbow bolt protruding from his neck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the dungeon door, looking through the keyhole as you consult with Shan. Your Magical Power of Sorcery should enable you to produce sufficient energy to break down the door, but it is certain to require large amounts of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to exert a force great enough to burst the lock. You have no way of telling just how much <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> the spell will use, and once you have begun you will be committed to seeing it through to the end.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to force the door with the Magical Power of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you do not wish to use <!--ERRTAG-RE-140127-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-140127-->, or lack sufficient reserves of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, <link-text>return to 172</link-text> and select another power.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In an instant, your quick reflexes have saved you. You release a bolt of energy, costing 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, that blasts the creature's head apart. The wound in your leg has lost you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, and painfully you clamber to your feet, limping from the swarming death behind you. You reach a shaft that leads into the tunnel from above. You peer up it and see light. A way to the surface at last!</p>
- <p>Clinging with trembling fingers to the nearly smooth sides of the shaft, you drag yourself up. Desperately, you haul your way up, kicking and stamping at the nightmare that advances from below. Using your last reserves of energy, you finally come to the top of the shaft. You are in a wide glade, surrounded by towering trees and dense foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Continuing on through the market square, you notice your pursuer stop to talk with two Shadakine warriors. He is pointing in your direction and gesturing excitedly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to run from the market square, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you would rather try to lose yourself in the crowd, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the creature, but it soon disappears from view. The tunnel curves slowly upwards, and before long you are plunged into darkness once more. You stop running.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have a Torch and Tinderbox and wish to light the Torch, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you would rather exert 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to create a small glow from your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not have either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-142635-->these items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-142635-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Leaping to your feet, you charge at the backs of the unsuspecting crossbowmen, your staff swinging and blazing a trail of magical fire. Shan attempts the same dramatic gesture, clumsily waving his sword, but fails to achieve the same effect.</p>
- <p>Before the crossbowmen are able to release their arrows, you are upon them. Add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> owing to the surprise of your attack, plus a further 2, owing to Shan's presence. You must fight the crossbowmen as one enemy and to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Crossbowmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you win the combat and wish to attack the Shadakine on the bridge, at long range, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you win the combat and wish to charge the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been prowling around the harbour for some time. So far all you have discovered are closed buildings, and shifty strangers passing in and out of the shadows, carrying mysterious loads.</p>
- <p>You spot two soldiers patrolling the waterfront. Their heads are shaven save for a long plume of hair that flows from the centre of their scalps. They wear armour of black enamelled steel, decorated with gold designs, and carry lethal-looking scimitars at their sides. They are Shadakine warriors, and they are shouting at you to remain where you are.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to run away from them, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to obey the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect101-1-foot" idref="sect101-1"><p>It seems odd that Shan would not return your weapon. You may choose to assume that you get it back once the battle is over.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first of the Najin is almost upon you when you unleash the power of the Wizard's Staff, killing one of the shrieking creatures in mid-air and scattering the others in all directions; you have used up 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You unleash the power of the Wizard's Staff, killing one of the shrieking creatures in mid-air</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="657"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="657"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>No!</quote> screams Tanith, running off into the barren hills. The Najin rally and gather around you, hovering. Yammering wildly, the first of the little creatures attacks you.</p>
- <p>There are nine Najin and they attack one at a time, attempting to claw and bite you. If you have another weapon, you pass it to Shan who then adds 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. (Remember to delete this weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<a id="sect101-1" idref="sect101-1-foot" class="footnote"/>)</p>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">9</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">7</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 5</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">8</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 6</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">12</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 7</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">9</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 8</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Najin 9</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you are still alive after five rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A flash of bright light ignites within the fire and seems to leap into your mind. You cry in pain, as if a piece of your mind has been torn away. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Stunned, you stagger backwards. The form of Mother Magri fades and is replaced by an impenetrable darkness that hovers at the heart of the fire. Two blank eye-slits and a gaping mouth are all you see as the black shadow leaps towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Though you have beaten the Cave Mantiz, the remaining horde of deadly insects overruns you and tears you to pieces where you stand.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It soon becomes impossible to avoid the massed clusters of Yaku vines, and gingerly you step through, passing close to the spiky hearts of these deadly plants.</p>
- <p>Your foot brushes a tendril. Instantly it writhes into life, coiling around your ankle with deceptive speed. You lose your balance and fall to the ground. Immediately you feel yourself being dragged towards the core of the Yaku plant, which lies only yards away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to slash at the tendril that has knotted itself around your ankle, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to unleash a bolt at the centre of the Yaku plant, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice a spare seat and sit down. Also seated at the table are three others, one of whom may be able to help you locate the Lost Tribe of Lara. You try to decide with whom to attempt a conversation.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>lso seated at the table are a tattooed sailor, a drunken merchant and a hooded character</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-150498-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-150498-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to speak to the tattooed sailor who sits snoring beside you, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you would rather talk to the merchant, clad in a gaudy robe and furs, and laughing drunkenly to himself in the seat opposite, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to speak to a hooded character, cloaked in black, sitting quietly in the shadows in the corner, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave Jnana and the Chansi Hills. Tanith walks in accusing silence; she obviously holds you responsible for a foolish act. You wend your way back to the Suhni River and cross it once more. You have been walking for perhaps half an hour when suddenly three Shadakine warriors burst out of the forest&emdash;you have been ambushed!</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect107-1-foot" idref="sect107-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shan stands motionless, his body frozen with fear. With one hand he holds his sword shakily aloft, while he covers his eyes with the other, peeping through the gaps between his fingers as the Quoku rushes towards him.</p>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points<a id="sect107-1" idref="sect107-1-foot" class="footnote" />, you punch a flaming hole through one of the Quoku's wings and it shrieks in pain. The injured beast is knocked awry; it veers sharply to the left and crashes to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to finish off the Quoku, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you would prefer to make another run for it, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the torchlight you can again see your surroundings. The ceiling of the tunnel is very low, and you are forced to walk with your body bent over uncomfortably. At the end of the tunnel the exit widens, and standing a little straighter, you continue on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spend a great deal of time preparing yourself, pacing up and down the cell, while Shan looks on, mystified. When you feel you have reached the correct mental state, you focus your attention on the door. Your initial exertion of will has little effect and you gradually increase the strength of the spell. You have already used up 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points when the door begins to creak on its hinges, the thick wood warping. With a surge of effort you throw enough power at the door to use up 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The timbers snap and the joists squeal, but still the lock will not give. A last desperate attempt produces 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points of energy that splinters the door. A mighty noise echoes down the corridor as the door crashes to the ground. You have used 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and lost 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the prolonged strain!</p>
- <p>You and Shan rush to the top of the steps and out into the corridor. Already, further down the passage to your right, you can hear someone shouting. You recognize the voice of the jailer and the sound of his clanking keys.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to confront the jailer, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to go in the opposite direction, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect110-1-foot" idref="sect110-1"><p>This is the correct solution to the riddle in <a idref="sect264">Section 264</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the rune begins to glow, burning its secret message into your mind.<a id="sect110-1" idref="sect110-1-foot" class="footnote"/> Its meaning gradually becomes clear. You hear the following words in your mind:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><thought>In Azanam the tribe of Lara dwell, no longer lost.<br />Beyond the gorge of Azagad, when the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote> are crossed.</thought></p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim and discharge a bolt of power straight at the top of the column. The Quoku lets out a long, chattering squeal of pain, but survives the force of the 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points of energy that you have exerted. Gouts of black blood flow from the ragged wound in its wing.</p>
- <p><quote>Its hide must be tougher than armour to have survived that,</quote> you gasp.</p>
- <p>You are unnerved and make a dash for it; Shan is already running.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer for the harbour and, as you near the stone quayside, you stand to furl the sail. You cut a dramatic figure: hair flowing in the wind; the reddening glow of the setting sun at your back, casting your shadow upon the shallow waters of the Sea of Dreams.</p>
- <p>The harbour is very busy; crowds of people rush to and fro. Sailors and fishermen line the harbour wall, busily unloading their crafts in an effort to finish before nightfall. You notice a flurry of activity further along the quayside; by the time you reach it, a small crowd has gathered, and you can hear the murmur of excited conversation. You throw up a rope and eager hands reach out to clutch the line, mooring the boat for you.</p>
- <p>The crowd has grown and it is now obvious that you are the focus of their attention. You hear snatches of conversation: <quote>An Ancient One, an Ancient One from beyond the Sea of Dreams&ellips;</quote>; <quote>See you there? Surely a Shianti walks amongst us?</quote>; <quote>Saw him myself. Came right out of the east, calm as you please!</quote>; <quote>God of legend, saviour of our people, hail, hail!</quote></p>
- <p>Hands stretch out in greeting while others try desperately to touch your robe, pushing and pulling, as more and more people struggle for a glimpse of your face. <quote>Who but a god could cross the Sea of Dreams. Save us, Lord!</quote> the crowd begins to shout. <quote>Destroy the evil Shadakine. Throw down the Wytch-king!</quote></p>
- <p>You can feel the growing hysteria, and to your dismay, you are lifted up on the shoulders of some of the crowd and carried in the direction of two armed soldiers, who are rushing towards you with their swords drawn.</p>
- <p><quote>Destroy the Shadakine warriors, Lord!</quote> someone shouts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to do as the crowd suggests, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to try to escape the crowd and the Shadakine warriors, and possess the Magical Power of Enchantment, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you would rather try to escape without the aid of magic, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb around the cave and head upwards. Gradually, the cliff-face becomes sheer and smooth, and soon you can no longer find another handhold: the nearest crevice in the cliff-face lies just out of reach. Your body is racked with fatigue and you barely have enough energy to continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to reach for the crevice with an outstretched hand, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you wish to accept defeat at the Wall of the Azakawa, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate the power of your mind and hurl the magical energy of Sorcery at the door. At first nothing happens, but eventually, after exerting 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, the lock snaps and the door swings open.</p>
- <p>You cross to the other side of the landing where stairways lead off to the left and right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-159803-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-159803--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>. (Note down this section number first, as you will need to return to it.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to take the left-hand stairway, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you would rather take the right-hand stairway, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you cause your Staff to light. The light from the Staff will now last until you extinguish it&emdash;you will not need to expend more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to keep it alight.</p>
- <p>You continue along the tunnel, stooping because of the low ceiling. At last it widens slightly: you have come to the end of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gather up the power of your thought, forming a mental shield against the groping fingers of the Kazim Stone. A cloud of displeasure passes across Mother Magri's face. The magic of the Stone hovers at the edge of your senses; the explorative fingers probe your defence, searching for a weakness, a breach in the psychic wall. Your flesh prickles and creeps as the power of the Stone pries and pulls at your will, yet still you keep it at bay (at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). The old woman scowls, intent upon the glowing Stone.</p>
- <p>The intensity of the stone increases and you must use another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to match its strength. Mother Magri glares at you, her face twisted with frustration. She doubles the force of the Stone's power, her eyes straining and her breathing beginning to quicken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to use another 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to withstand this assault, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you would prefer to try to exert the influence of your will against your opponent from behind your shield of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Shadakine are spoiling for a fight, having tracked you for a day. Spitting war-cries, their white eyes rolling, they charge towards you. In berserk fury, the first of the Shadakine runs straight into the path of your staff, and you dispatch him easily at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The events of the past few days have improved your battle skills immensely.</p>
- <p>The two remaining Shadakine are more cautious than their dead comrade, circling and snarling, jabbing at you with their sword tips as if taunting a caged animal. You cannot evade and must fight them to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Shadakine Warriors</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you win, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing at the foot of the towering cliffs, you look up. The cliffs are smooth and sheer; there seems no way of climbing them. The curling wisps of mist from Lake Shenwu swirl below, and you move across the scree at the base of the Azakawa Wall, searching for a way up. Your head feels fuzzy and you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you see a crack in the cliff a few feet above your head. It is a small niche, but is large enough to hide a man.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to investigate the crack in the cliff, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to return to the Shenwu Falls and the area around Lake Shenwu, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without hesitation, Shan obeys. Bringing his sword up above his head, he bellows a cry and plunges it deep into the Yaku plant. The tendrils that hold you shudder, tighten, then suddenly wilt, freeing you both as the plant writhes in the throes of death.</p>
- <p>You have lost 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the struggle.</p>
- <p>Shan has saved your life and you thank him through the pain of your bruised and battered ribs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect120-1-foot" idref="sect120-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl yourself into the mass of fighting soldiers. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point<a id="sect120-1" idref="sect120-1-foot" class="footnote" />, you throw down two Shadakine warriors. Shan disarms a third with a lucky blow.</p>
- <p>The Shadakine warriors have become disordered by your attack, but you are still surrounded by four of them, who originally were commanded to guard the rear. You must fight them as one enemy and to the death. Shan adds 3 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Rearguard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you are still alive after three rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two Shadakine warriors stand before you. <quote>What are you doing lurking around here?</quote> asks one, prodding your chest with his fingers.</p>
- <p>You fumble for some excuse, observing that the Shadakine's eyes are completely white&emdash;they have no pupils. You try to persuade the two soldiers that you are a local fisherman, but they are deeply suspicious of your story and appearance and arrest you on the spot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to resist the arrest by attacking the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you do not want to reveal your powers and purpose at this time, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With great care, you step forward into the darkness, following the tunnel by running your hand along the wall. After a few minutes, the tunnel ends. You stumble blindly in the dark. Suddenly there is a terrible pain in your right leg as it is grabbed in a pincered grip. You are dragged to the floor and devoured silently by an enemy that you will never see.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fortunately you have your Staff with you. You lash out with it at Mother Magri, expending 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. However, your Staff passes right through her: she is only an apparition, created by the power of her thought. She cackles hideously and begins to chant:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-unknown"><quote>Mundi Kleasá&emdash;Sorti Magri,<br />Shasarak Shinto, Gordus Shando&ellips;</quote></foreign></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The apparition of Mother Magri dissolves, to be replaced by a sinister shadow, an impenetrable blackness at the heart of the raging fire. Two eye-slits and a gaping mouth are all you see as the shadow creature lunges towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide on Enchantment as your mode of escape: perhaps the jailer could be persuaded to open your cell door? A plan forms and you sink into a deep trance, weaving an elaborate illusion in your mind.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire! Fire!</quote> you shout, pounding on the door of your cell. Shan looks at you strangely, for there is no sign of any smoke. <quote>Jailer, open up before the whole place burns down!</quote></p>
- <p>After a little encouragement, Shan is soon persuaded to join in the charade and begins rushing around madly, yelling and pounding his fists on the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Soon, the jailer comes limping down the corridor and stops outside your cell. <quote>I thought I could smell smoke,</quote> he comments. He can see great plumes of fire raging in the middle of the dungeon and billowing smoke escaping under the door. He is completely fooled by your illusion and his rattling keys are soon in the lock. The door is thrown open and you and Shan bound up the steps and out into the corridor. The puzzled jailer is left peering into the cell, wondering why the flames of the fire give off no heat.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to pounce on the jailer while he has his back to you, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you would prefer to run to the right, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to turn left along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch up the dead Jailer's Keys and run along the corridor, unlocking each door as fast as you can. One by one, the doors are thrown open, and prisoners pour into the corridor, rushing in all directions. If you decide to keep the Keys, mark them as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to go back along the corridor to take the left stairway, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to go back along the corridor to take the right stairway, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to enter a narrow passageway at this end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Najin land and encircle you. Their leader steps forward, yammering and pointing to the hills ahead. <quote>They wish to lead us to Jnana,</quote> says Tanith. <quote>He is their master.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I do not like this, Grey Star,</quote> says Shan. <quote>It is common knowledge that these beasts are used by the Wytch-king and the forces of Shadaki as spies and messengers. Surely this Jnana is a servant of the enemy?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to follow the Najin, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to leave the Chansi Hills, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Shadakine warrior crumples and falls, the excited mob roar their approval. They hail you as a hero and crowd around you cheering. A new sound floats on the harbour wind and the uproar subsides. You can hear the clatter of pounding hooves and the rumble of thundering wheels. A wave of panic ripples through the crowd. <quote>The Wheels of Death!</quote> someone shouts.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Three war chariots, driven by whip-wielding Shadakine, hurtle into the harbour. The chariot wheels have blades protruding from their hubs, and as the Shadakine plough into the crowd, the blades scythe down anyone in their path.</p>
- <p>In the confused panic, you see a chance to escape into a dark, narrow street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to run towards the main entrance, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to run down the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Shan huddle together. You are surrounded by writhing tendrils, though, for the moment, they seem reluctant to attack. <quote>If ever a garden needed weeding&ellips;</quote> murmurs Shan.</p>
- <p>Somehow, you must get past the deadly Yaku. They have you trapped. <quote>We need something to divert their attention for a while,</quote> you say thoughtfully.</p>
- <p><quote>Don't look at me!</quote> Shan replies, wide-eyed.</p>
- <p>Despite your desperate plight, you cannot help smiling. <quote>Of course not,</quote> you answer, <quote>but perhaps there is another way&ellips;</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use <!--ERRTAG-RE-173595-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-173595--> to escape, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you possess the Magical Power of Enchantment and some Calacena Mushrooms and wish to use this method of escape, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you do not have either of these Magical Powers, or do not wish to use them, you may attempt to fight your way out by <link-text>turning to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the fearful Stone where it lies and throw open the door of the antechamber. Standing in the circular room is Tanith, the young girl in the service of Mother Magri. <quote>Grey Star,</quote> she says. <quote>At last, I've found you.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Beware,</quote> warns Shan. <quote>She is a Shadakine slave. She cannot be trusted.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to attack the young girl, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to question her, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are beginning to tire. Suddenly Tanith reappears, leading a wizened old man who is shouting angrily in a strange language. At his command the Najin cease to attack, flying up into the air and off into the distance as swiftly as they came. <quote>Fools!</quote> curses the old man, dropping to his knees by the body of a dead Najin. <quote>My children, my eyes and ears,</quote> he moans bitterly. <quote>They meant you no harm. I sent them out in greeting.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Jnana,</quote> says Tanith, pleading. <quote>They did not know; they did not understand.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Why did you bring them here, Tanith?</quote> asks the blind, old man.</p>
- <p><quote>We seek the Lost Tribe of Lara,</quote> you say, humbly.</p>
- <p><quote>You seek your doom then,</quote> Jnana replies. <quote>The way to the Azanam is fraught with peril. Go now, you are not welcome here.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike up a conversation with the red-faced merchant. His name is Shan Li, a trader familiar with all parts of the Shadakine empire and many strange lands beyond. Carefully, you steer the conversation to the subject of the Lost Tribe of Lara.</p>
- <p><quote>Ah now,</quote> begins the drunken merchant with some relish, <quote>the legend, eh? Well, there are many stories, and in my travels I have heard most of them. No word of the Laranese have I ever heard in the far north, the free kingdoms of the Lastlands, nor here in the Shadakine Empire. No indeed, the only story I ever heard that seemed authentic came to me in the city of Elzian where I was trading with the Magicians of Dessi. There I heard a story of the exile of the Lost Tribe to the cloud forests of the far south, that perilous place named the Azanam. Others, though, speak of the forested Shuri Mountains.</quote></p>
- <p>In a very loud voice, the merchant begins relating one of the many stories he has heard about the Laranese. You notice that many people are fuming to stare, muttering and whispering. Before you can attempt to quieten him, a hand grabs your shoulder. You and the merchant have been arrested by four burly Shadakine guards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you point your Staff towards the bridge, Tanith rises, takes a running jump onto the back of a crossbowman and spoils his aim barely seconds before he releases a bolt intended for Shan. With the practised ease of a professional killer, she skilfully cuts the throat of the crossbowman with her knife.</p>
- <p>Meanwhile, you unleash a fork of crackling energy, which brings down a Shadakine warrior standing by the bridge, at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203"><link-text>Turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Submissively you hand over your money pouch. With a mock bow, the cut-throat takes it, grinning fiendishly. <quote>And now a little silence from you, sir,</quote> he sneers. He lunges at you with great speed. The cut-throat is trying to kill you and you must fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cut-Throat</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">12</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect27">You may evade after 2 rounds of combat if you are still alive; <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you would rather fight to the death, and you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You are right, Tanith,</quote> you say, <quote>we need counsel. But who is this Jnana, and can he be trusted?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>He has no love of the Shadakine for, fearing the power of his wisdom, they blinded him many years ago in the ignorant belief that they could prevent his far sight by putting out his eyes. He sides with no one. He can be trusted. We must head for the Chansi Hills, which lie to the north of here. Come, follow me.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your horror you see another insect, larger than the first, blocking the exit of the tunnel. You have entered a Cave Mantiz nest. The Cave Mantiz live in colonies below ground, burrowing their nest out of stone by dissolving rock with the potent acid stored in their bodies.</p>
- <p>If you can find your way through this maze, you should be able to reach the surface above the Wall of Azakawa and enter the Azanam. But first you must deal with the creature that stands rearing before you. It is a soldier Mantiz and its clacking pincers and clawing, outsize forelimbs tell you that it does not intend to let you pass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Treading lightly and with great caution, you move forward. You look all around, your eyes searching for an enemy lurking in the shadows, waiting to spring out at you from behind a rock or boulder.</p>
- <p>Shan is trembling visibly now and moves to draw his sword, but you motion him to stay his hand lest the sound should alert some dangerous beast. Still you can see nothing, but the strange croaking call persists, increasing in frequency and echoing all around.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it to identify the nature of your danger, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-181335-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-181335-->, or would prefer not to use it, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Shan the merchant hot on your heels, you dash up the stairs which lead to a small landing. There are two exits. The left exit is blocked by a heavy wooden door. To the right is an open archway leading into a narrow corridor. In the distance, you can hear the sound of screams and falling masonry. The ground below your feet trembles.</p>
- <p><quote>Which way?</quote> asks Shan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>. (Note down this section number first, as you will need to return to it afterwards.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to take the left exit, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you would prefer to turn to the right, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach desperately for a handhold, your foot slips and you fall away from the cliff-face. You plummet towards the ground, stomach churning and heart beating faster&emdash;but not for long. As you hit the stony ground, your body is broken, and you are killed instantly.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate the power of your thought and, at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, a shimmering field of energy encircles you. The form of Mother Magri disappears from the heart of the fire to be replaced by a far more sinister vision. A great shadow of impenetrable darkness appears in the flames of the fire. You see two blank eye-slits and a gaping mouth as the shadow creature lunges towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun has begun to set. Far ahead of you, heading west, you sight a small group of fishing boats. You see growing numbers of these craft as you continue on your way, occasionally spotting larger seagoing vessels. Then your heart gives a leap of joy. You can make out the distant shape of a coastline and a harbour full of hundreds of fishing boats and sail ships. In the orange glow of the setting sun, the domes and spires of a city point challengingly towards the sky. This is the Port of Suhn, the first city you have ever seen.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>This is the Port of Suhn</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="636"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="636"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to enter the port before nightfall, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to wait for darkness to descend, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the sloping tunnel is an exit. You pass through and discover an even larger tunnel, curving away to the right and left. As you stand there, trying to decide which way to go, you hear the scrape of gigantic insect legs.</p>
- <p>A large soldier Mantiz is scurrying towards you from the right of the tunnel, pincers snapping and large, outsize forelimbs clawing at the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push the heavy wooden door and give a cry of frustration: the door is locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you have the Jailer's Keys, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to try to open the door through the use of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to try to open the door through the use of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to take the right-hand archway, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give a cry of pain. Your future screams agonizingly in your mind. <quote>Death! Death and Danger!</quote></p>
- <p>With a great effort you try to locate the exact source of the danger but your senses only shout that it is all around, to the left and the right, above and below, in front and behind. In the darkness of your fear you understand one thing: you must keep moving, for it is the present that holds the greatest peril.</p>
- <p>The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-186763-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186763--> has cost 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point, owing to the shock of the experience.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to explore the basin and the area around Lake Shenwu, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you would prefer to find a way to scale the cliffs, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All day long you have weighed in your mind which of your Magical Powers may best aid your escape, and as night falls, you prepare to make a decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crossbowmen's expressions change to those of astonishment as the berserk merchant rushes towards them, red-faced and screaming comically in a strangled voice. Lunging ineptly with his sword, he engages the three crossbowmen with a series of eccentric strokes, none of which find a target.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to fire another long-range attack at the warriors on the bridge from the safety of your hiding place, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you want to help Shan, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you would prefer to charge the Shadakine warriors on the bridge, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing in the centre of the large clearing, hemmed in on all sides by giant Azawood trees and clumps of sprawling undergrowth, you stand and catch your breath. A look around the glade reveals a number of holes in the floor&emdash;entrances, no doubt, to similar shafts to the one you have left.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="148"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="148"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>In a relentless tide, hundreds of Cave Mantiz pour out of these holes and stream towards you. Suddenly a pair of waving antennae appears in the entrance of a shaft close to where you stand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you wish to fire a bolt from your Wizard's Staff into the shaft by your feet, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to dash straight into the undergrowth, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Tanith,</quote> you say, <quote>you serve Mother Magri. What do you intend to do?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I know where your Staff is hidden,</quote> she replies. <quote>I can take you to it and help you to escape if you will take me with you. Decide quickly. There is great danger here and we have little time.</quote> You hear the running feet of the Shadakine guards coming from the stairs below and the voice of Mother Magri, barking orders and cursing the Shadakine in an angry tone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you agree to Tanith's request, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you choose to ignore her words, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Squinting in the dusky light, you see a webbed hand appear over the edge of the defile. Shan gives a groan of disbelief as the wounded Quoku heaves itself on to the ragged plain. Doggedly it moves towards you, dragging its tortured body, possessed of an inhuman vitality.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You haul Shan to his feet and point to the south. <quote>Look,</quote> you say, <quote>we have nearly reached Lake Shenwu; one last effort now.</quote> You pull Shan to his feet and stagger across the plain at a painfully slow pace. Relentlessly, the Quoku trails behind, slowly gaining on you.</p>
- <p>With a cry of frustration, you see that your way ahead is blocked by a deep ravine that stretches nearly six feet across. The creature is not far behind you and you realize that there is not time enough to circle around the ravine. The Wall of Azakawa lies tantalizingly beyond reach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to jump across the ravine, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to stand and fight the Quoku, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>A Kleasá!</quote> Tanith screams. <quote>A Soul-eater!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description><quote>A Kleasá!</quote> Tanith screams. <quote>A Soul-eater!</quote></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="649"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="649"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You must fight the Kleasá to the death. For every round of combat, subtract 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your total. If you have erected a magical shield of Sorcery, subtract 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for every round of combat as the Kleasá tries to claw at your soul.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kleasá</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you are still alive after four rounds of combat or have defeated the Kleasá within three rounds, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power of the Kazim Stone is overwhelming; it undermines your resistance, and pries into the corners of your mind; it disturbs the dust of your memories and trespasses upon the hidden chambers of your dreams.</p>
- <p>Mother Magri's eyes widen with spiteful pleasure. You are powerless to prevent her intrusion into your mind. You try to blank your thoughts, searching for the safety of the Shianti way, the solace of meditation, but it is useless. The Kazim Stone is too strong.</p>
- <p><quote>There now&emdash;I see it,</quote> rasps Mother Magri, scrutinizing the vague shapes and shadows of the Stone. <quote>Something's there, some hidden purpose or grand design. Agh! It is protected. Some power hides it. More wizard's sorcery no doubt. Will this mist never part?</quote></p>
- <p>The hours of your ordeal pass slowly. Mother Magri chants and intones every charm and spell in every language that she knows, but she cannot penetrate the curtain that enfolds your memory, shrouding that part of your mind that bears your quest. It must be Shianti enchantment bestowed, without your knowing, by the masters of the Isle of Lorn. However, Mother Magri does not relent, and you lose 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You feel the growing pull of insanity and a raging madness clamouring in your ears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total is above zero or you have the Magic Talisman of the Shianti, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total has now fallen to zero or lower, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It should be possible for an alchemist to mix a potion of acid capable of destroying the metal lock of the cell door, though you will need the correct ingredients to make up the following formula:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><strong>Ezeran Acid Potion</strong></p>
- <ul>
- <li>1 part Sulphur</li>
- <li>1 part Saltpetre</li>
- <li>1 part Ezeran Crystals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Mix over a gentle heat.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you have the ingredients in your Herb Pouch and an empty vial to mix them in, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you do not have all these ingredients, you must select a <!--ERRTAG-RE-195642-->different Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-195642--> to aid you in your escape; <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way to the shack. It looks deserted. The door hangs half open, and the windows are overgrown with an innocuous, yellow/brown weed called Ogosho, indigenous to this area. You hear a rustling sound coming from within.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to enter the shack, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to use the element of surprise and burst in through the door, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you think Shan should investigate, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you close the door you hear the sound of running feet. Four Shadakine warriors are approaching. You turn the key in the lock. <quote>Hurry, Grey Star,</quote> Shan calls. <quote>There is no time to lose.</quote></p>
- <p>The Shadakine are beating at the door, shouting furiously for you to open it. Next, you hear the sound of heavy thumping as they try to force the door open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-197097-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197097--> and wish to bar the door, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you do not have <!--ERRTAG-RE-197276-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197276--> or would prefer not to use it, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grit your teeth against the pain of your wound as the ferocious Cave Mantiz springs towards you, its barbed claws thirsting for your vulnerable flesh.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cave Mantiz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect4">You may evade this combat after one round by <link-text>turning to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a brave but futile act. You release a colossal beam of death at the Shadakine charioteer just as the horses trample you underfoot, crushing every bone in your body and killing you instantly.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Tanith and Shan at your side, you look towards the battle on the bridge. The Knights of the White Mountain have killed many Shadakine warriors, but it looks as though this time they will be defeated.</p>
- <p><quote>We must go to their aid,</quote> you say. You approach the bridge, intending to attack the Shadakine from the rear. Tanith has disappeared, so with Shan following, you prepare to charge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to attack the Shadakine officer in command, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you would prefer to attack the main Shadakine force, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing in the market square. It is bustling and full of life. Hundreds of stall owners are selling their wares by torchlight. You wander round the square, looking at the stalls and the items for sale there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not have <!--ERRTAG-RE-199818-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199818-->, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire down the shaft, using 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The enclosed space of the shaft transforms the energy beam into a fireball that hurtles into the tunnel below. Soon, the shaft is clogged with the charred remains of insects.</p>
- <p>You limp into the tangled undergrowth, gasping with pain due to the prolonged effort of running on your injured leg. The dense foliage and huge Azawood roots make for slow progress as you stumble through the brush. The Cave Mantiz have not given up their pursuit and swarm through the forest depths at an alarming speed. Thousands of enraged insects scuttle and scurry towards you. Your heart pounds, and you fear that you cannot outrun them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232"><link-text>Turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-200999-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200999--> should enable you to burst the door open, but it will use up a great deal of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to break the lock. You have no way of telling how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points will be required, and once committed to this spell you will have to follow it through to the finish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you still wish to use Sorcery to open the door, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-201566-->Power of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-201566--> and would rather use that to open the door, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to enter the open archway to the right, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gently you tip the liquid into the old man's mouth. After a short while, his eyes clear and a little colour returns to his cheeks. <quote>Thank you, brother,</quote> he says. <quote>That was kindly done. I would return your kindness, but first I must sleep&ellips; sleep&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>You finish your food and sit back, deep in thought. You feel exhausted and fall into a deep sleep, chanting Shianti words of peace and meditation to calm your mind and free your thoughts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hopping, fluttering Najin lead you into the stark, featureless hills. Eventually you come to a small cave entrance perched on a narrow ridge, overlooking a steep fall to the outlying hills below.</p>
- <p>An old man sits cross-legged before the cave entrance, staring out across the heights with sightless eyes. Without lifting his head or looking in your direction, he speaks. <quote>Who comes? Who disturbs the solitude of Jnana?</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>It is I, Tanith,</quote> she says. <quote>I bring Grey Star, a great wizard who dares to oppose the evil Wytch-king. He is in need of counsel.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I seek the Lost Tribe of Lara,</quote> you say, <quote>for I have a quest and need their aid.</quote></p>
- <p>The old man is silent for a while. <quote>You must go south to the great jungle of the Azanam. The way is fraught with danger, for you must pass through the great Azagad Gorge and the towers of stone known as the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote>.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The Azagad Gorge is a vast canyon and the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote> are the great limestone pinnacles that stand throughout the gorge,</quote> explains Shan. <quote>The Azagad Gorge ends at the great cliffs known as the Wall of Azakawa; the Shenwu Falls lie at their centre. Beyond and above the cliffs is the great cloud forest of the Azanam.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>It is a strange land, full of weird and hostile beasts,</quote> warns Jnana. <quote>You are unprepared for such a journey, but I will offer you such gifts as I have to aid you.</quote></p>
- <p>He brings the following items from his cave and motions to you to take your choice.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Silver Charm (a Special Item that Jnana claims will bring good luck)</li>
- <li>Enough food for 5 meals</li>
- <li>Broadsword (Weapon)</li>
- <li>2 Potions of Laumspur (they each restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; may count as Backpack Items or Herb Pouch Items if you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-204744-->Power of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204744-->)</li>
- <li>Coil of Rope (Backpack Item)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember that your Backpack can hold a maximum of eight items.</p>
- <p>Shan and Tanith are also given food, backpacks and weapons of their choice. Gratefully, you thank Jnana for his aid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you possess the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If not, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking careful aim, you fire at the chariot as it crosses the bridge. Because of the distance between you and your target the attack costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your shot misses narrowly, falling just short of its target, but the fiery blast startles the team of black horses and causes the driver to lose his control over them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run through the open archway and into a narrow passage that slopes downwards at a steep angle. As the passage becomes darker, a feeling of disquiet overcomes you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333"><link-text>Turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <!-- WOLM: storyline glitch; Shan might already have a sword -->
- <p>The dead bodies of the Shadakine lie at your feet. A thorough search reveals 10 Nobles and 2 Meals. Shan takes a sword from one of the bodies, smiling at you cheerfully. <quote>Souvenir,</quote> he says in jest.</p>
- <p>You may take the other Sword if you wish. Remember to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before continuing on your journey towards the Azan river.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kleasá seems to be growing stronger as it erodes your will. No matter how badly you damage the fabric of the creature, you cannot alter the phantom's ability to feed on your spirit.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the creature grows, wrapping its whole body around you, engulfing you in a terrible darkness. You lose 5 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you are still alive, and your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score has now fallen to zero or less, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you are still alive, and your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is above zero, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and stride purposefully towards the man who has been following you. Unfortunately, before you can reach him, he calls out to two Shadakine warriors and they advance towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to try to escape from them, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to confront the two Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Run&emdash;both of you!</quote> you shout to your companions.</p>
- <p>Both Tanith and Shan ignore your command, bravely standing their ground by your side, though neither has a weapon. The chariot has now reached the bridge and it thunders on towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to unleash a long range attack at the chariot, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to stand your ground and allow the chariot to draw closer, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sail lifts and you head out into the ever deepening waters. The Shadakine coast lies far to the west, and you prepare for a long voyage. Two monotonous days and a night pass. During this time you must consume 2 Meals (cross these off your list of Backpack Items) and lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to fatigue, since you have had very little sleep, constantly ensuring that the ship maintains a steady course.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can approach the bridge, a crossbowman who has broken away from Shan's bungled attack, jumps into the foliage where you are hidden. He levels a loaded crossbow at your heart, grinning fiendishly. Suddenly his expression freezes in a grimace of pain. He falls forward and you see that Tanith's knife protrudes from his back. With a sigh of relief you bless her timely appearance.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly,</quote> she snaps. <quote>Shan is in trouble. Help me.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect203"><link-text>Turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you have a prepared vial of Ezeran Acid, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you do not have this potion, you can try to open the door with your Magical Power of Sorcery: <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you would prefer to take the right-hand exit, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A quick search of the body reveals 5 Nobles, which you may keep. You may also keep the guard's Sword if you wish. (Remember to mark <!--ERRTAG-RE-211312-->these items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-211312--> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">Now head for the other flights of stairs by <link-text>turning to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect172-1-foot" idref="sect172-1"><p>You are forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calmly you sift through <!--ERRTAG-RE-211706-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-211706--> and the extent of your mastery of them to determine the most effective choice. You make your decision.<a id="sect172-1" idref="sect172-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to try to escape with the aid of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to use the <!--ERRTAG-RA-212048-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-212048--> of Enchantment, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you would rather use Elementalism, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to use the <!--ERRTAG-RA-212048-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-212048--> of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you wish to use the <!--ERRTAG-RA-212048-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-212048--> of Psychomancy, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to use the <!--ERRTAG-RA-212048-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-212048--> of Prophecy, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you would rather contact the spirit realm of the dead through the use of Evocation, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Fool!</quote> she says, angrily. <quote>Now I must destroy you.</quote> She points your Staff at you and unleashes a mighty blast that plunges directly into your heart. The burning bolt fells you instantly; you have become a victim of your own power.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shan is exhausted and you are obliged to help him along. The sky is full of Quoku, circling above you like expectant vultures. Ahead you can see the great Shenwu Falls that feed into Lake Shenwu, the source of the Azan River.</p>
- <p>Shan whimpers in hoarse sobs. <quote>I can't go on&ellips; I can't go on&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You must!</quote> you shout at him.</p>
- <p>A few hundred yards further on, Shan collapses to the ground, his body racked with fatigue. You look behind and see a familiar, yet amazing, sight&ellips;</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You have power, young stranger,</quote> murmurs Mother Magri. <quote>I sense some wizardry in you. How came this to be I wonder? Whom do you serve?</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description><quote>I sense some wizardry in you,</quote> murmurs Mother Magri</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="639"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="639"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>If you do not resist the power of the Kazim Stone, your quest and its origin will be revealed to this servant of the Wytch-king.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RA-215009-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RA-215009--> and wish to use it to destroy the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RA-215009-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RA-215009--> and wish to use it to try to shield your mind from the probing power of the Stone, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you would rather resist the power of the Stone with <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Panting for breath, your heart pounding against your ribs, you step on to the landing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you have the Jailer's Keys and wish to lock the door behind you, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you would prefer to save time and continue immediately, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are too weak to resist and your soul is devoured by the dark phantom. You fall to the ground, a lifeless shell; you are another victim of the malice of Mother Magri and the dark servants of the Shadakine Empire.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A young girl brings three bowls of rice, and lingers for a while to stare at you through the iron grille of the door. You thank the girl kindly for this simple act. <quote>Blessed is the giver, richer through the giving of a gift,</quote> you say, according to the old Shianti custom. Startled, the young girl disappears.</p>
- <p>You go over to the old man, who is obviously dying, and offer him some food. <quote>Twenty years,</quote> he rants, gripping your arm. <quote>Twenty years I've been here, for no crime at all. Soon I will die.</quote> Sadly, you learn that the old man was once a Shianti priest, a worshipper of the memory of your Shianti masters, imprisoned for his religion and for keeping alive the memory of the Shianti.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you have some Laumspur and wish to ease the old man's suffering, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you do not have any Laumspur, or would rather keep it, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Raising your Staff, you attack the Yaku. A fiery bolt burns into the heart of the plant and it releases its grip immediately. The attack has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly Shan falls to the ground, emitting a startled cry; a snaking creeper is wrapped tightly around his legs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to loose a bolt at the Yaku as it drags Shan towards its centre, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to rush to Shan's side, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see two Shadakine warriors standing in the chariot as it rumbles towards you. Just as you are about to hurl a beam of force at them, Tanith steps in front of you, directly in the chariot's path. She calls out in a shrill voice. <quote><foreign>Katta Chi!</foreign></quote></p>
- <p>To your surprise, the team of horses suddenly rears up, neighing in panic and confusion. <quote>I was taught the mastery of beasts long ago,</quote> she cries, beaming with pride.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With deep concentration you send your thoughts out to the elemental plane, unsure as to the kind of aid the elementals will send. The cost of this is 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>The clouds above your head darken, and with a smile you realize the nature of the help that has been sent to you. A sudden shower drenches the plants around you, their red hearts growing pale and their sharp barbs opening out into rows of tubules, drinking in the rarity of water from the sky.</p>
- <p>As the plants lie limp and quiescent, you and Shan jump, with unchallenged ease, past the lethal Yaku and on towards your goal. As night begins to fall, Shan gives a sigh of relief: far off in the distance you catch your first glimpse of the Great Wall of Azakawa.</p>
- <p>You break into a stumbling run, anxious to reach the boundary of the Azanam before nightfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to make another dash for it, and, turning in the direction of the Wall of Azakawa, you break into a run, Shan lagging at your heels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect183-1-foot" idref="sect183-1"><p>Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>One stall in particular catches your eye. A sign reads:</p>
- <signpost>MADAM TARLAS&emdash;HERBAL CURES & REMEDIES<br />APOTHECARY TO NOBLEMEN & KINGS</signpost>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The stall is full of potions and salves and the dried leaves and roots of many different plants, some of great power and others of no use at all. Your trained eye notices several items for sale that could be of great use to you as an alchemist. They are:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>1 Jar of Ezeran Crystals (which produce an acid capable of melting metal when combined with sulphur). Cost: <em>5 Nobles</em></li>
- <li>Pestle and Mortar (Backpack Item). Cost: <em>5 Nobles</em></li>
- <li>1 Bottle of Naphtha (a volatile, inflammable liquid). Cost: <em>2 Nobles</em></li>
- <li>2 Vials of Laumspur (a healing potion that will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed). Cost: <em>2 Nobles each</em></li>
- <li>1 Vial of Graveweed Essence (a strong poison). Cost: <em>1 Noble</em></li>
- <li>1 Vial of Alether (a potion that will increase <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points when swallowed before an attack). Cost: <em>2 Nobles</em></li>
- <li>1 Bundle of dried Azawood Leaves (a base constituent that will charm up to 4 magical potions). Cost: <em>5 Nobles</em></li>
- <li>3 Tarama Seeds (swallowing 1 seed permits a wizard to use his Wizard's Staff, or Magical Power, without losing any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points; they take up no room in your Herb Pouch or Backpack).<a id="sect183-1" idref="sect183-1-foot" class="footnote"/> Cost: <em>3 Nobles each</em></li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any number of <!--ERRTAG-RE-223249-->these items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-223249-->. Items that do not fit in your Herb Pouch must be carried as extra Backpack Items. Remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn left and resume your journey. As you wind in and out of the pillars, you use the sun to guide you, keeping in a southerly direction.</p>
- <p>As evening begins to fall, Shan sighs with relief. The columns have become less dense, and far ahead, you can see the Great Wall of Azakawa. It is a huge cliff-face, many hundreds of feet high, stretching from east to west as far as the eye can see. Directly ahead of you, at the top of the sheer cliffs, you glimpse a huge cascading waterfall: the Shenwu Falls.</p>
- <p>You move faster, anxious to reach the boundary of the Azanam before nightfall, and to leave this barren land of nightmarish scenery and strange inhabitants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>For pity's sake, what on Earth are you doing now?</quote> questions Shan in a complaining tone.</p>
- <p><quote>Hush,</quote> you retort, closing your eyes to concentrate on preparing a holding spell to bar the door. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you create a magical barrier to bar the door. It will take the Shadakine guards some time before they will be able to break it open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to take the left stairway that leads from the landing, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you would prefer to take the right stairway, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you creep away, hoping that the Quoku will not notice you. Though you dare not look back, you hear the rustle of movement on the top of the nearest column where a very large Quoku is perched.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Senseless with exhaustion, you are dragged forcibly from the chamber, down long flights of stairs and into the darkness of the dungeons of the Hall of Correction. Your senses rail against the ominous and overpowering feeling of oppression that seems imbued into the walls of the place. A tortuous scream fills the air, followed by the sound of brutal laughter. <quote>What was that?</quote> you whisper, hoarsely.</p>
- <p><quote>You'll find out soon enough,</quote> one of the Shadakine replies. <quote>Jailer! Lock this one up!</quote> A tattered cripple lurches towards you, a large bunch of keys rattling at his side.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Here, Master Turnkey. Lock him up nice and safe now.</quote></p>
- <p>The jailer limps forwards, a mad and joyous expression on his face. <quote>Marvellous, simply marvellous,</quote> he giggles. <quote>Another guest. How wonderful to meet you.</quote></p>
- <p>An iron-shod door is unlocked and you are thrown into a dark and foul-smelling pit. You fall headlong down a flight of steps and lose consciousness before coming to rest on the straw-covered floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you have been arrested at the Inn of the Laughing Moon, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If not, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly you retrace your way back down the cliff, clawing and stretching for every precarious gap in the rock. Your descent proves tedious and tiring. At length, you reach the small cave and haul yourself inside.</p>
- <p>Careful to make as little sound as possible, you explore the tiny cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you are confronted by the Shadakine officer. He gives a crazed yell before hurling himself at you.</p>
- <p>The officer is a formidable opponent, and you can not safely evade combat without risking being cut down by this fanatic. You must fight him to the death. Since Shan is with you, add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Officer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We go south,</quote> you say to Shan.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> he replies. <quote>I only pray that I am not leading you on a fool's errand.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>With you leading, what else could it be?</quote> says Tanith under her breath, smiling sweetly at Shan. Within minutes, the two are trading curses and insults.</p>
- <p><quote>We have no time for this,</quote> you admonish them. <quote>Shan, lead the way.</quote> Abashed, he obeys.</p>
- <p><quote>At the heart of this forest,</quote> he says, <quote>the Suhni River is joined by the Azan River. The Azan River will lead us all the way to this Azanam. We have a choice of two routes to the Azan. North of here is the Suhni River, which leads west, finally merging with the Azan. South lies the Great Suhn Road, which we left last night; it crosses the Azan further south. Which way, Grey Star?</quote></p>
- <p>Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> before making your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to find the Azan River by travelling first north and then west, following the Suhni River, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you would rather travel first south and then west along the Great Suhn Road, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Concentrating your will, you tap the raw energy of Sorcery from the <!--ERRTAG-RE-230633-->Astral plane<!--/ERRTAG-RE-230633--> and form it into a ball of pure thought, holding it poised in your mind, ready to hurl into the Kazim Stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to draw 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points into your mind, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to draw 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points into your mind, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to draw 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>(Remember to adjust your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total to its new value before turning to the appropriate section.)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are smothered in an all-consuming darkness. Somewhere, seemingly far off, a muffled cry reaches your ears. It is Shan. <quote>Tanith, you must save him,</quote> he cries. Then you hear Tanith's clear and brave voice for the last time&ellips;</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect193-1-foot" idref="sect193-1"><p>The Yabari Ointment can be applied at any time and is effective until it is washed off or until this adventure is over. If you choose to apply the ointment, delete this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> but make a note that you instead are now wearing the ointment.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="sect193-2-foot" idref="sect193-2"><p>Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you tell Jnana that you are versed in the arts of Alchemy, he offers you the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pestle and Mortar (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li>Packet of Ezeran Crystals</li>
- <li>Jar of Yabari Ointment (a salve that will keep insects away and disguise the human scent)<a id="sect193-1" idref="sect193-1-foot" class="footnote"/></li>
- <li>4 Tarama Seeds (swallowing 1 seed of this rare flower permits a wizard to use his Wizard's Staff, or Magical Power, without expending any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points; they take up no room in your Backpack or Herb Pouch)<a id="sect193-2" idref="sect193-2-foot" class="footnote"/></li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of these items. Carry them in your Herb Pouch unless otherwise indicated. Remember to mark <!--ERRTAG-RE-233541-->the items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-233541--> you take on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you throw the Rope towards Shan, but overwhelmed by his fear, he is unable to catch it; you make three attempts before Shan grabs hold of it. You watch the injured Quoku come to a halt a short distance from Shan as the terrified merchant is trying to tie the Rope around his waist with fumbling fingers. You wait, your nerves on edge, ready to pull Shan across the ravine, once he has secured the Rope. Still the Quoku comes no closer, and before you can guess the reason, it is too late!</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The narrow street widens and grows lighter. The source of the light is the window of a grim, stone building at the end of the street which opens on to the market square. Above the doorway of the building hangs a sign which reads:</p>
- <signpost>INN OF THE LAUGHING MOON</signpost>
- <p>You decide that you must try to find some information from the Suhnese inhabitants. Perhaps you can pick up some clues about the whereabouts of the Lost Tribe of Lara.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to try to gain this information in the market square, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you would rather enter the Inn of the Laughing Moon, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist your body in the air and leap to the ground. The frenzied crowd have focused all their attention and hatred on the remaining Shadakine warrior, allowing you to lose yourself in the throng. Pushing and shoving, you battle through the press of bodies and try not to think about the warrior's ghastly fate at the hands of the bloodthirsty mob.</p>
- <p>You are standing at the corner of a dark, narrow street that leads out of the harbour. The only other exit is the crowded main entrance, through which people are still pouring, attracted by the commotion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to leave the harbour by the main entrance, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to leave the harbour by the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed and ferocity of the soldier Mantiz is astonishing. The creature attacks. You cannot evade combat and must fight this deadly opponent to the death.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The speed and ferocity of the soldier Mantiz is astonishing</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="639"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="639"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Soldier Mantiz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crack of timber makes you start, and you turn to see an axe smashing through the door. The Shadakine warriors are chopping down the door and it will not hold for long.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to run up the stairway that leads from the left of this landing, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you would prefer to take the stairway on the right, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing in a small dell. Ahead lies the Suhni River and beyond the river, a forest. <quote>Come,</quote> says Tanith, <quote>there is a bridge nearby. We must cross the bridge to gain the safety of the forest before we can rest.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The witch speaks the truth,</quote> comments Shan, returning the girl's icy glare contemptuously. Though you have barely rested, you continue onwards, coming at last to a wide road that crosses the Suhni River by means of a large, ornate bridge.</p>
- <p><quote>It will not be long before the Shadakine come searching for us,</quote> says Tanith. <quote>Have you a spell that would destroy this bridge and hinder their pursuit?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to destroy the bridge with the <!--ERRTAG-RA-238719-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-238719--> of Elementalism, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you would prefer to create a barrier with the aid of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-238719-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-238719--> of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you would rather conserve your energy, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the dark, narrow street. Tall warehouse buildings rise up on either side, casting deep pools of shadow that hide your passing. You have walked a short distance when you come to a crossroads. The right and left turnings lead into alleyways, while the narrow street continues ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to turn into the left alleyway, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to turn into the right alleyway, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you would rather continue along the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you waken, night is falling. Your rest has greatly refreshed you: restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>It is clear that you will have to use one of your Magical Powers if you are to escape the tortures of the Darkling Room. Carefully, you weigh in your mind which of <!--ERRTAG-RE-240588-->your Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-240588--> will best effect your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand up in the boat, close your eyes, and with your hands raised, you enter the required trance state with practised ease, chanting in the secret language of the elementals, and sending out the power of your thought to the elemental plane.</p>
- <p>A few moments pass. The breeze begins to lift and the sail fills. You open your eyes and smile with satisfaction. All around are the fleeting forms of Wind Sprites, air elementals sent to hasten your voyage. Then a sudden gust of wind appears out of nowhere and the little boat lurches forward, throwing you to the deck; with a whoop of delight, a Gale Wraith has thrown itself into the taut sail and is propelling the boat forward with great force.</p>
- <p><quote>I thank thee, powers of the air,</quote> you shout with joyous courtesy, struggling to sit up in the boat to steer her on the right course. The spell has been successful and required little power. Deduct 1 point from your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She swiftly retrieves her knife and wipes the blood on the dead man's tunic before pouncing on the two soldiers that threaten Shan.</p>
- <p>In seconds, you and Tanith have engaged the two remaining crossbowmen, much to the relief of Shan, whose eyes are now bulging with fear. The Shadakine offer no surrender, and you must fight them to the death. Since you have the aid of Tanith and Shan, you may add 4 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Shadakine Crossbowmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you win, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect204-1-foot" idref="sect204-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points<a id="sect204-1" idref="sect204-1-foot" class="footnote" /> you lash out at the tendril that holds Shan. The energy beam slices through the creeper. It withers instantly and releases him.</p>
- <p>In the time that it has taken you to free Shan, two more creepers have crawled towards you. One is curled around your right leg; the other grips your left ankle. The creepers must belong to different Yaku plants, for you can feel yourself being pulled in two directions. Once more you are dragged to the ground and the pain becomes unbearable as your body is stretched apart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">As you are forcibly dragged to the ground you may fire at the heart of the nearest Yaku plant, which is only a Staff's length away, by <link-text>turning to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you would prefer to attack the Yaku vine holding your right leg, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to attack the Yaku vine on your left leg, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push a key into the lock and turn it: it is the wrong key. Dismayed, you try another.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the door is pulled open from the other side. A Shadakine warrior stands in the doorway. With an astonished cry, he draws his sword and attacks.</p>
- <p>Add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight owing to the advantage of surprise and Shan's help.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">15</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to evade this combat (which you may do at any time by fleeing down the right-hand exit), <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swallow the mushrooms and wait for the effect to take a hold. The pink fungi enable you to communicate with the vicious plants, sending out waves of passivity. Soon the plants become dull and docile and you are able to tread a safe path through them.</p>
- <p>The light is fading when at last you come within sight of the Great Wall of Azakawa.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Torch sputters and goes out, plunging you into darkness. There is no time to make another light, and you swing blindly at your enemies who soon overwhelm you.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you emerge from the forest you see a detachment of five Shadakine warriors, carrying crossbows, marching along the road towards you. You are now trapped between them and the battle on the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you wish to attack the crossbowmen at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you would prefer to charge the crossbowmen, using the element of surprise to full advantage, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speak to the man shrouded in shadow, noting the wooden, fish-shaped amulet hung around his neck. This is the symbol of the silent order of <quote>Redeemers</quote>, a religious sect persecuted throughout the Shadakine Empire, though their purposes remain a mystery.</p>
- <p>Instead of replying, the black-robed pilgrim puts a finger to his lips and hands you two <!--ERRTAG-RA-247209-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247209-->: a vial, containing a Pink Liquid, and a Medallion, inscribed with a rune. If you wish to keep these <!--ERRTAG-RA-247209-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247209-->, mark the Vial of Pink Liquid as a Backpack Item and the Medallion as a Special Item (worn around your neck) on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Before you can examine these <!--ERRTAG-RA-247209-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247209--> more closely, four Shadakine warriors burst into the inn. They seem to be looking for someone. Without a word, the <quote>Redeemer</quote> leaves.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a mug of ale is placed in front of you. The affable merchant sitting opposite has bought you a drink; he is shouting a happy greeting to you and asking your name.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to accept the drink, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you would rather leave the inn, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the other side but stagger and fall, rolling over and over upon the dusty plain. You are shaken and bruised by the fall: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect211-1-foot" idref="sect211-1"><p>You must have the Power of Evocation in order to attempt to raise the dead priest.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Focusing your mind, you reach out into the future, expending 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The way is not clear, but repeatedly you are shown a vision of the dead Shianti priest. You are being urged to raise the old priest's spirit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you wish to do this,<a id="sect211-1" idref="sect211-1-foot" class="footnote"/> <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you have already attempted the spell of Evocation or wish to ignore the vision, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text> and select another Magical Power.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have entered a small room. A Shadakine guard is sleeping in a chair, his back turned towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to attack the Shadakine guard, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you prefer to leave the room as quietly as possible and take the other stairway, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must move quickly now. You enter an unguarded tunnel that lies to the left and break into a run. At length, you come to the two exits: one slopes upwards, the other, downwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to enter the passage sloping upwards, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to enter the passage sloping downwards, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you would prefer to return the way you came, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lock clicks open. <quote>Thank the gods,</quote> you breathe.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank the jailer,</quote> quips Shan, wiping the sweat from his brow. You throw open the door and discover another landing. There are two stairways, one leading to the left and the other to the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-251279-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251279--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>. (Note down this section number first as you will need to return to it.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to take the left stairway, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you would prefer to take the right stairway, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect215-1-foot" idref="sect215-1"><p>If you have arrived here from <a idref="sect156">Section 156</a>, there is no description of how the Shadakine officer is killed. This appears to be an oversight by the author.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="sect215-4-foot" idref="sect215-4"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- <!-- footnote sect215-2 was deleted -->
- <footnote id="sect215-3-foot" idref="sect215-3"><p>Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Shadakine officer dies,<a id="sect215-1" idref="sect215-1-foot" class="footnote"/> the Knights of the White Mountain give a victorious cheer and charge forwards. The Shadakine that remain continue to fight, but eventually falter and retreat into small groups. With their numbers divided into small pockets of resistance, the knights are quickly able to overcome them, demonstrating their superior fighting skills in one to one combat. The Shadakine warriors fight to the last man and you expend another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point before the battle is over.<a id="sect215-4" idref="sect215-4-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>As soon as the fighting is over, the unarmed man jumps down from the wagon on to the bridge. <quote>My thanks, stranger. A timely arrival indeed,</quote> he says, smiling broadly.</p>
- <p>His name is Madin Rendalim, a Durenese herbwarden, famous throughout the Lastlands of the fair north for his knowledge and skill in the healing arts. He is journeying through the provinces of the Shadakine Empire seeking the Druse tree, and the clear, sticky resin beneath its bark&emdash;the only known cure for the terrible Red Death plague.</p>
- <p><quote>I had found the Druse tree growing some distance from here, in the Forest of Fernmost at the foot of the Kashima Mountains. I was returning to Port Suhn to journey back to my home in Hammerdal when these ill-mannered Shadakine brutes refused to let us pass. They have closed the roads around Suhn it seems, searching for some fugitives or outlaws.</quote></p>
- <p>As a sign of his gratitude he offers you the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Potion of Rendalim's Elixir (restores 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>Enough food for 5 Meals</li>
- <li>Pestle and Mortar (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li>3 Tarama Seeds (1 seed permits the use of a Magical Power or Wizard's Staff without the loss of any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points)<a id="sect215-3" idref="sect215-3-foot" class="footnote"/></li>
- <li>Sealed pouch of Calacena Mushrooms (the spores of these mushrooms may enhance the illusions of those using the <!--ERRTAG-RE-255346-->Power of Enchantment<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255346-->).</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of these items. Carry them in your Herb Pouch unless otherwise indicated, or unless you have no Herb Pouch, in which case carry them in your Backpack. Remember to mark <!--ERRTAG-RE-255408-->the items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255408--> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>When you have made your choice, he offers Shan and Tanith a selection of gifts. At last, you bid the herbwarden and his brave bodyguard farewell, requesting that they mention your encounter to no one.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately, you twist towards the plant. The Dagger misses the centre of the Yaku plant by an inch but there is no time for a second blow. You are wrenched into the crimson heart of the Yaku.</p>
- <p>The pain of a hundred barbs plunging into your face soon fades as you fall into the oblivion of death.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you begin to fish for information. The shrewd eyes of the innkeeper narrow, and he leans towards you, speaking in a low voice. <quote>If it's information you're after, you'd best remember that these are dangerous times,</quote> he says, <quote>and dangerous talk costs lives they say, if you take my meaning sir,</quote> he adds, stretching his upturned palm towards you.</p>
- <p>You drop one Noble into his hand, but he only shakes his head saying, <quote>And life doesn't come cheap, now, does it sir?</quote></p>
- <p>The innkeeper only closes his hand when you have given him another four Nobles. (Remember to cross these off your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) <quote>Now then young master, what was it exactly that you wanted to know?</quote> Anxiously, you enquire after the legend of the Lost Tribe of Lara.</p>
- <p><quote>The Lost Tribe!</quote> he exclaims, incredulously. With a frightened expression, the innkeeper stands back. <quote>Never been outside Suhn in all my life,</quote> he splutters, <quote>and that's forbidden talk, against Shadakine law. You'd best try them over there,</quote> he says, pointing to a nearby table. <quote>They're travellers throughout these lands.</quote> The innkeeper pockets your money and dashes away to another part of the bar before you can protest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the afternoon of the third day you have reached the point where the Azan River joins the Suhni. Shan is a good guide; he has read the trail well, and you have made good progress.</p>
- <p><quote>A few miles south of here lies the village of Iwo,</quote> says Shan. <quote>There the great Suhn Road crosses the Azan River, but we must be on our guard as we approach the bridge.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can react, Shan is being enclosed in the deathly embrace of the venomous Quoku, its wings obscuring him from sight and sealing his inevitable doom. You shudder with revulsion and look away as a wave of nausea rises in your throat.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you take up Shan's backpack and move on to Lake Shenwu. You dare not look back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In denying the dead, your soul is forfeit. Your spirit is wrenched from your body and hurled into the abyss to suffer eternal torment at the hands of the masters of darkness.</p>
- <p>Your quest is over, but your torment continues&emdash;forever!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> you say, <quote>lead on.</quote></p>
- <p>Tanith gives a sigh of relief and points towards the antechamber of Mother Magri. <quote>This way,</quote> she says, running into the room. With Shan muttering about death and destruction, betrayal and butchery, you follow her.</p>
- <p><quote><foreign>Casas Indu</foreign>,</quote> she calls, and a hidden door slides open, revealing a dark space behind. <quote>It's a secret passage,</quote> she explains. <quote>Here is your Staff and Backpack.</quote> She takes a torch from the wall, and its light reveals a small compartment roughly hewn from stone and a sloping passage heading downwards. You take the Backpack and Staff from their hiding place and turn to Tanith. <quote>What now?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Down the passage&emdash;hurry!</quote> she replies. You and Shan run down the passage. Tanith follows swiftly. <quote><foreign>Casas Sendra</foreign>,</quote> she intones, and the secret door slides shut.</p>
- <p>If you have the Kazim Stone and there is room in your Backpack, you may place it there for safekeeping. Remember to mark this Backpack Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292"><link-text>Turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn left, following the broad curve of the tunnel as it veers right. As you turn the bend you see a large soldier Mantiz up ahead. It is larger than the worker Mantiz that you saw earlier. Its forelegs are oversized claws and the upper segment of its body and its head rises vertically above its abdomen.</p>
- <p>The soldier Mantiz is guarding an exit off to the right of the curving tunnel in which you stand. Attracted by your light, the Mantiz turns its bulbous eyes towards you and begins to snap its pincers in agitation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to attack the soldier Mantiz at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to charge the soldier Mantiz, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you would prefer to head back the way you came, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you turn into the alleyway, the pungent smell of rotting garbage fills your nostrils. Rats feed in the gutters, and the stink from the open sewer is overpowering. However, for the moment, you seem relatively safe. Now you must seek out some information on the possible whereabouts of the Lost Tribe of Lara. You must also try to keep your motives secret from the local Suhnese.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you wish to seek this information in the alley, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you would prefer to head back to the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Death to the Shadakine!</quote> you scream, caught up in the berserk fury of the mob. With a triumphant cry, the crowd deposits you on the ground and then withdraws to form a circle around you and the warrior. The Shadakine stands sweating and panting before you; his eyes dart wildly in every direction but he sees no escape. As the jeering crowd hurls insults and taunts at the trapped soldier, you notice that the shaven-headed warrior's eyes are totally white, completely lacking pupils. Resolutely, he steps forward, sword and teeth bared, snarling his defiance. <quote>To the death then, boy,</quote> he spits.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Shadakine steps forward snarling his defiance</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You cannot avoid the combat owing to the circle of people around you and must fight the Shadakine to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you win, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have run halfway up the flight of stairs when the door at the top is thrown open by a Shadakine guard. The Shadakine behind draw closer, and the guard at the top calls to the warriors from the guard room you were running towards. You are trapped.</p>
- <p>Your last memory is of Shan's resigned stare as he succumbs to death at the hands of the Shadakine.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter into a duel of wills with the power of the Stone. The yellow glow of the Kazim Stone flares brighter and brighter, its burning fingers tearing at your mind. Beads of perspiration appear on your forehead as you exert your powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>The combined <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores of Mother Magri and the Kazim Stone are 50. Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> scores and subtract this total from 50.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If your final score is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If your score is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press on, keeping close to the line of the river, and very soon you enter the Azagad Gorge. The hot sun burns down fiercely on the arid surface of the canyon floor, and the distant horizon is distorted by the haze of shimmering heat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You choose to go right and find it easier to maintain a constant direction. Gradually the towers of the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote> become less dense. Soon the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote> have disappeared altogether and you realize that the Wall of Azakawa does not lie ahead as it should. Shan stops and looks around the dusty plain. He groans as he sights the Azan River lying way off to the west.</p>
- <p><quote>We've been heading north&ellips; We're back in the Wilderwastes!</quote> he moans, slapping his forehead with his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to head west, pick up the Azan River and head back into the Azagad Gorge, by your original route, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to retrace your steps, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect229-1-foot" idref="sect229-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bolt of energy slices into the Yaku plant. Its tendrils tense, leaping into the air before falling lifelessly to the ground. Your attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.<a id="sect229-1" idref="sect229-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>To your relief, you see that Shan has managed to free himself from the grip of the other Yaku plant.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish, at long range, to attack another Yaku plant threatening Shan, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you would prefer to attack the cluster of tendrils slithering towards you, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you waken, your head aches and your vision is blurred. Realization of your terrible plight come flooding back, and you lift your head to look around. In the far corner sits the now sober and miserable figure of Shan Li, the merchant from the Inn of the Laughing Moon.</p>
- <p><quote>So they got you too, friend,</quote> says Shan Li, wryly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Owing to the speed of its approach and the steep angle of its attack, you are unable to let off a long range blast at the Quoku. Bringing its back legs forward and using its body and outstretched wings as a wind-break the creature comes to an abrupt halt and lands smoothly. It has barely touched the ground, a few feet away, when it leaps towards you, limbs spread-eagled.</p>
- <p>There are strange suckers on the tips of its fingers and toes, and its warty skin oozes with a glistening poison. The creature is trying to engulf you in the folds of its wings in a poisonous and fatal embrace.</p>
- <p>You must avoid contact with the creature's poisonous skin at all costs. Subtract 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat, because of the defensive nature of your tactics.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Quoku</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are forced to a sudden halt, for the way ahead is blocked by a fallen tree. You turn and see a large soldier Mantiz rushing towards you, and you gasp in frenzied desperation. You are trapped! Wounded and bloody, you prepare to deter yet another attack, fear gripping your heart with an icy chill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing your ground, you wait as the Quoku draws near, bracing yourself against attack. It stops a few yards away, regarding you with a baleful expression.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, and without warning, the Quoku opens its mouth and grabs at Shan with a long proboscis-like tongue that wraps tightly around his arms and chest. Shan screams with fear and revulsion as he is dragged towards the venomous mouth of the Quoku. You have seconds in which to act.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Shan is dragged towards the venomous mouth of the Quoku</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="628"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="628"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking the right turn, you are immediately stopped in your tracks by a terrifying sight. A large soldier Mantiz is running towards you, pincers snapping and large, oversize forelimbs clawing at the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press your fingertips against each of the keys, maintaining a vision of the door lock in your mind. One key feels right; you insert it into the lock and turn. The cost of this spell is 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214"><link-text>Turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pressing your hand to the cell wall, you reach out with the power of your thought and search for guidance. You hear the moaning cries of the dead; the suffering torment of tortured souls that have passed through this place assails your mind. You hear voices chanting. <quote>Call the priest&ellips; call the priest&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>The cost of this Magical Power is 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">Now <link-text>return to 172</link-text> and select a power to aid you in your escape.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Something snaps. A keystone in your brain crumbles, bringing the temple of your mind to the ground in shattered fragments: the Kazim Stone has destroyed your mind.</p>
- <p>You live the rest of your life, a raving madman, wandering the countryside, wielding a Staff you cannot use, and pursuing a quest you can never achieve.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk ahead, still unsure of the correct direction. You feel as if you are wandering aimlessly around the sheer crags of rock, with their crowns of stony spires that give no clues to your whereabouts. An hour passes before a familiar sound greets your ears. It is the faint murmur of the waters of the Azan River. You spot a Yaku plant, and then another, then Shan gives a snort of disgust. <quote>That rock over there,</quote> he says, indicating a large overhanging shelf; <quote>I recognize it. On the other side of that rock is the river bank. We're back where we started!</quote></p>
- <p>Dismayed, you realize that he is right. This is the place where you first left the Azan River to avoid the Yaku plants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to leave the bank of the river once more and head east, back towards the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote>, before turning south, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you would prefer to give up and take your chances with the thick undergrowth of Yaku plants along the river's edge, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Staff and loose a bolt of white fire at the insect. Your aim is true, and the bolt sears into the head of the soldier Mantiz. The insect crumples and falls dead to the ground. The attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Carefully, you advance and step over the smoking body of the soldier Mantiz. You enter the passage that it was guarding and soon come to two exits, one sloping downwards, the other sloping upwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to enter the upward-sloping passage, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to enter the downward-sloping passage, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to return the way you came, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run towards Shan. Quickly you realize that you will probably not reach him in time to save his life. You have no choice but to try to free him the quickest way you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn into a street leading from the square and break into a run. Behind, you hear the cry of a Shadakine, ordering you to halt.</p>
- <p>You have turned into a busy high street, crowded with people, and try as you may you cannot clear a way through them. Suddenly the crowd scatters, diving for cover. Twenty yards ahead stand three Shadakine warriors: an officer and two crossbowmen with weapons loaded and aimed at your heart.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Ahead stand three Shadakine warriors with weapons loaded</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="637"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="637"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Halt, or you're dead!</quote> shouts the Shadakine officer, savagely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to obey his order, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you want to attack them, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you would rather turn and try to make a break for it, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stones are very slippery and the river is wide at this point. You will need all your powers of concentration to prevent yourself falling into the foul water.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If your total is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If your total is 19 or less, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without warning you attack the jailer who, despite his frail appearance, responds to your attack with savage blows. Owing to Shan's assistance and the element of surprise, you may add 4 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. You cannot evade and must fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Jailer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">8</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">14</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you win the fight you may keep the jailer's Dagger (mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Weapon).</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to take the Jailer's Keys and free the other prisoners on this level, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you wish to head in the direction that the jailer came from, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to head in the opposite direction, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you near the forest, Tanith gives a startled cry. <quote>Look!</quote> she shouts, pointing behind her. <quote>They come, the Shadakine come.</quote></p>
- <p>In the distance, you see a chariot hurtling across the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to make a dash for the forest, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect245-1-foot" idref="sect245-1"><p>Make sure to restore your Wizard's Staff, Backpack and Backpack Items to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Here,</quote> she says, <quote>they are both yours if you promise to take me with you. I know the secret ways out of here. I will lead you.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> says Shan, <quote>be on your guard. This witch is a Shadakine slave. How can we trust her?</quote> The Shadakine guards are drawing near.</p>
- <p><quote>We have no choice,</quote> you reply. <quote>We have to trust her.</quote></p>
- <p>You agree to Tanith's bargain, and she hands over your Staff and Backpack.<a id="sect245-1" idref="sect245-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <quote>Follow me,</quote> she says, opening a door to her right. You both rush through and she closes it behind you, dropping a bar across it to delay your pursuers. You are in a small, sparsely furnished chamber.</p>
- <p><quote>The citadel is honeycombed with secret passages that wind into the hill it stands upon. We will take one of these routes,</quote> she says, confidently. She walks to the centre of the room and takes hold of an iron ring that is attached to a flagstone. She pulls on the ring, lifting the flagstone away to reveal a dark passage below. She takes a torch from the wall and enters the passage. <quote>Come now, they will soon be on our heels.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow without hesitation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292"><link-text>Turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldier Mantiz springs into action, rushing forward to meet your charge. It is a swift and deadly opponent, and you will need all your skill to break through the dizzying slash and thrust of its large forelegs and nipping pincers. You cannot evade and must fight the soldier Mantiz to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Soldier Mantiz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A piercing cry wakes you with a start. The sickly, old Shianti priest is sitting bolt upright in bed, silhouetted by the pale rays of the moon that shine through the high window of your cell.</p>
- <p><quote>A vision, a vision,</quote> he cries, <quote>sent from my masters.</quote> He turns and points a gnarled finger towards you. <quote>You&ellips;</quote> he shouts, <quote>you must be helped&ellips; Come closer, young one.</quote> He rises to his feet, stumbles towards you and whispers in your ear. <quote>I would repay your kindness,</quote> he says, leaning forward. <quote>No doubt, you and your friend wish to escape from this terrible place?</quote> he asks. Quickly you nod your assent; pressing the old man to continue. <quote>In my time here, I have learned the safest route of escape. Other prisoners have told me of it.</quote> His strained, bloodshot eyes pierce yours with a mad ferocity. <quote>I know no way of passing through the door of this cell, but the way beyond the dungeon door is-</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly he gives a great sigh and falls to the floor. With tears in your eyes, you turn to Shan, who looks anxiously at you. <quote>He is dead,</quote> you say, sorrowfully. The merchant hangs his head. <quote>Then we are doomed,</quote> he groans.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect248-1-foot" idref="sect248-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slash the tip of your Wizard's Staff across the tendril that is wrapped around your ankle. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point<a id="sect248-1" idref="sect248-1-foot" class="footnote" />; you burn through the tough vine and free your foot. You clamber to your feet only to see the tendrils of another Yaku plant snaking towards you.</p>
- <p>With a frightened yell Shan falls to the ground; a Yaku tendril is coiled around both his legs. He hacks at it desperately with his sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to free Shan by attacking the tendril that drags him towards the waving spines of the Yaku, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you wish to strike at the heart of the Yaku plant that attacked you, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to loose a bolt of energy at the centre of the Yaku plant attacking Shan (at long range), <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dodging around the limestone pillars, you enter a sloping defile. It is very steep and requires considerable effort, reducing your climb to a crawl.</p>
- <p>Finally, you reach the top and pause for breath. The narrow pass opens on to an open plain of sun-baked rock and cracked stones, broken only by sparse lines of gullies and ravines.</p>
- <p>You turn and look back along the pass. Shan has fallen far behind, having covered less than half the distance up the slope. To your horror and amazement, you see a creature enter the far end of the defile. It is the wounded Quoku, its body caked with black blood. The creature refuses to die! It creeps along painfully, drawing inexorably nearer to Shan who seems unaware of the danger below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to shout a warning to Shan, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you would prefer to hurry to his side, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Since the corpse of the Shianti priest is still in the dungeon with you, you decide to summon his departed spirit and ask for its aid. With a wedge of rock, you scratch out a ragged pentacle in the dirt of the dungeon floor. Taking a deep breath, you slowly and carefully fall into a trance state. You focus on the body of the dead priest, sending out an echoing call to the spiritual plane. Your mind fills with the groaning cries of disembodied spirits and visions of phantoms with strange, pale faces.</p>
- <p>Shan the merchant backs away in terror as the translucent Shade of the old priest materializes above its discarded, earthly body, shimmering with a silvery light that illuminates the darkness of the cell. <quote>I have come, Grey Star,</quote> the Shade says in a hollow voice. <quote>My aid I give thee, but you must pay the price of the dead if I am to free you. Wilt thou pay this price?</quote></p>
- <p>Your heart is full of fear as you realize that you must agree to the dead man's price without knowing what it will be.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you wish to accept the dead priest's bargain, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you feel that you must refuse, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just as the two soldiers break through the wall of injured and fleeing people, the illusion takes effect.</p>
- <p><quote>Let me down. Let me down!</quote> an old woman croaks angrily. The approaching warriors and those who carry you on their shoulders stare at you in disbelief. You have transformed yourself into an old woman carrying a walking stick, or at least that is what the others see.</p>
- <p><quote>Torment a poor old woman would you?</quote> you screech, thumping those nearby on the back, slapping a few heads and tweaking an ear or two before prodding a Shadakine warrior with your Staff. <quote>And as for you,</quote> you cry indignantly, <quote>have you no shame? Order this rabble to let me down and show some respect for a woman of my years.</quote> With this, you begin another shower of slaps and thumps to the great amusement of the Shadakine.</p>
- <p>Slowly, you are lowered to the ground. Grumbling, you hobble away while puzzled and suspicious eyes look on. However, the Shadakine Warriors are completely fooled, slapping their thighs and roaring with laughter as the stunned crowd disperses in angry silence. A sense of unrest emanates from those who remain behind, and you know that you must leave the harbour area quickly, before your illusion is challenged. An illusion is easily dispelled by one who disbelieves in the image or picture that Enchantment places in the mind, and a visual illusion is hard to maintain for long periods, as details tend to fade and waver after a time, losing their consistency and revealing flaws to the cynical observer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you want to leave by the main entrance to the harbour, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you would prefer to turn into a dark, narrow street, leading from the harbour area, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the shack and see dust-laden furniture and a clutter of spades, picks and sieves stacked in one corner. Suddenly a yellow-spotted lizard scuttles out from under the table and dashes towards you.</p>
- <p><quote>It's all right,</quote> says Shan. <quote>It's a Jerbokan&emdash;they're harmless.</quote> The frightened lizard scampers past you and out through the door.</p>
- <p>Shan begins to rummage around while telling you that the former occupants were probably jade prospectors, since the Azan River is said to carry deposits of jade, the precious stone used to make Noble pieces. He finds some appetising smoked meat and shares it equally, offering you enough food for 5 Meals. (Remember to mark these on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) A further search reveals nothing else of value, and you leave the shack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have climbed only halfway up the steps when the door at the top is thrown open by a Shadakine guard. He regards you with shocked surprise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to turn and run back down the stairs and head for the other stairway, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to attack the Shadakine guard, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your eye, you trace the tendril that holds Shan back to the main stem. Taking careful aim, you fire at the heart of the plant, destroying it easily at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Immediately Shan is released and he scrambles over to your side as two more creepers wind themselves around your legs. The creepers belong to different Yaku plants, and you feel yourself being pulled in two directions at once. Again you drop to the ground and howl in agony as the two Yaku plants attempt to wrench your body apart.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speeding chariot swerves into a skid and turns over on to its side, throwing the two Shadakine warriors from the vehicle as it flips over. Unfortunately, they are both unharmed, and they jump quickly to their feet and charge towards you, scimitars drawn. It is too late to avoid the attack and in order to protect your unarmed companions, you must fight the Shadakine to the death!</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Shadakine warriors</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Quoku keep their distance, circling above your heads in lazy spirals. You crouch behind the cover of the large, overhanging rock, trying to guess their next move. <quote>Why don't they attack?</quote> asks Shan. <quote>You must have given them a scare. Perhaps they've given up?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>They're surprised, not scared,</quote> you reply. <quote>They're planning their next move. While we're holed up in these rocks they lose the advantage of attacking from the air; we're too enclosed for them.</quote></p>
- <p>Daylight has almost faded when the Quoku fly in a line towards you, each one coming as close as it dares before turning away. Soon they are swooping so close that you find it hard to resist the urge to duck.</p>
- <p>A large rock crashes to the ground by your feet, followed by another. <quote>They've been ranging-in on us,</quote> you say, <quote>judging the distance before hurling rocks at us.</quote> Another rock thuds to the ground, dangerously close.</p>
- <p><quote>Their aim is improving,</quote> Shan remarks.</p>
- <p>You cannot remain where you are any longer: you are sitting targets. You resolve to make a break for it, and begin to judge the frequency of the stone-throwing Quoku. <quote>Now&emdash;run!</quote> you shout to Shan.</p>
- <p>You burst out into the open to a cacophony of Quoku cries. In seconds, you realize your mistake: you have played into their hands. Poised on top of the overhanging rock is the largest Quoku you have ever seen. The huge monster rears up, its yellow eyes glaring with hatred, the poison glistening upon the warts of its slime-encrusted flesh. It leaps and swoops down on you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you wish to stand and fight the Quoku, as it hurtles upon you, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you prefer to keep running, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect257-1-foot" idref="sect257-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop back down the slope, half running, half sliding on the gravel of the gully. With Shan at your back, you confront the unyielding Quoku once more.</p>
- <p>Using the advantage of standing on the higher ground, you deal the Quoku a crushing blow, sending it tumbling down the slope in a landslide of loose stones and dust. It finally comes to rest in the scree. Your attack has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="sect257-1" idref="sect257-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sad and troubled mind is further disturbed by the death of the priest, and your sleep is plagued with nightmares of torture and persecution.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect259-1-foot" idref="sect259-1">
- <p>There are numerous unanswered questions with this combat. The addition of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is straightforward, but which attribute do you lower when wounded in this mental combat? A mental combat would suggest that you will lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> as this is the measure of you mental strength. It is possible to have a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score which would mean that the combat would only come to an end when the Darkling Room's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> was lowered to 0. Using you true <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is the less paradoxical route.</p>
- <p>In either case, if your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> or <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is lowered during a round of combat, do you then adjust your combined <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score which is serving as your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for this combat.</p>
- <p>There are no easy answers to these questions. It is up to the reader to decide which solution is most appropriate.</p>
- <p>Also, you cannot use your Wizard's Staff in this combat; since the combat is mental in nature, it would be inappropriate to us it, which means that you should not be able to use <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to multiply your opponents loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inexplicably, the brooding fear that lurks within you is rising uncontrollably. Shan is shaking, his face panic-stricken. Gingerly, you step through the soft mud of the quagmire. The air smells pungently sweet&emdash;a cloying odour that is hard to identify. You cannot escape the feeling that there is someone or something else in the cavern, but it is difficult to see in the eerie darkness. The sucking ooze pulls at your feet, and in the distance you see a faint light from another passage on the far side of the cavern.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star!</quote> shrieks Shan, looking down, his eyes wide with terror. For the muddy cavern floor is comprised of hundreds upon hundreds of corpses, piled high upon each other to form a ghastly mire. Shan is screaming hysterically, but before you can calm him the aura and spirit of this awful place overwhelms your mind, filling it with nightmarish visions.</p>
- <p>You are in the Darkling Room of Mother Magri, and you must combat its fear if you are ever to leave. Add together your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and use this total as your mental <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, to be pitted against the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of the Darkling Room.<a id="sect259-1" idref="sect259-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <combat><enemy>Darkling Room</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn away and set a swift pace along the tunnel. The soldier Mantiz gives chase, and you break into a run. The fearful creature is gaining on you when suddenly you see another of its kind coming from the opposite direction, its long feelers and claws reaching out in anticipation. You are trapped between them and must fight them both together.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Soldier Mantiz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake and raise your body slowly. Your head is pounding, and your vision is blurred. Realization of your terrible plight comes flooding back, and you look around you. In the corner sits a hunched and groaning figure, dressed in furs and gaudy robes now stained with dirt. He sits with his hands clasped over his pot belly. <quote>Welcome,</quote> he says, sardonically.</p>
- <p>You talk to the little man and he tells you about himself. His name is Shan Li, a trader familiar with all parts of the Shadakine Empire and many strange lands beyond. He is a harmless merchant, arrested a few hours ago while in the middle of a drunken reverie in an establishment called the Inn of the Laughing Moon, a popular watering hole for travellers and strangers to the Port of Suhn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blade misses its target. Slowly you are dragged into a clutch of crimson needles. As the barbs sink into your flesh, your body stiffens with paralysis, relaxing only when death comes mercifully to claim you.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your leg is numb and hinders your climb, but somehow you reach the top of the shaft without falling. You feel the brush of an insect's feeler across your leg, and you shudder. A surge of adrenalin rushes through your veins, and you clear the last few feet of the shaft with a tremendous physical effort.</p>
- <p>You have made it to the surface at last, and blinking in the sunlight, you view a large clearing surrounded by towering trees and dense, green foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect264-1-foot" idref="sect264-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you remember the Medallion given to you by the <quote>Redeemer</quote> in the Inn of the Laughing Moon. You take it out and stare intently at the rune inscribed upon it. Surely there is some clue here. You take out the pink potion that the <quote>Redeemer</quote> gave you and pull out the stopper of the vial. Sniffing the contents, you recognize the scent of Calacena: a mushroom whose spores induce visions much prized by magicians and illusionists. With some trepidation, you swallow the potion and discard the contaminated vial. (Delete this Backpack Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You stare once again at the Medallion as the potion begins to take effect.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect264.gif" width="386" height="286"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect264.pdf" width="386" height="286"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A close examination of the rune inscribed upon the Medallion will tell you which section number to turn to next.<a id="sect264-1" idref="sect264-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you cannot solve the riddle of the rune and wish to take Shan's advice, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you cannot solve the riddle of the rune and wish to seek the counsel of Jnana the Wise, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Staff erupts into fiery power, and you aim a blast at the Shadakine warriors, injuring the sword arm of one at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. You must fight the remaining Shadakine to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The evening is full of the sound of the throaty Quoku call. You both put on a burst of speed, glancing over your shoulders at your pursuers. To your horror, you see that they are no longer on the ground! Instead, they are gliding up into the air, limbs thrust out to reveal large flaps of membrane that stretch from their forelegs to their back legs to form gigantic wings. <quote>You didn't tell me they could fly!</quote> you shout to Shan.</p>
- <p><quote>I didn't know they even existed until an hour ago,</quote> he apologizes, wheezing, already short of breath. <quote>We'll never outrun them now.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Quoku hurtles towards you with astonishing speed</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>More Quoku are leaping from their towers of stone, pushing high into the air with their powerful back legs and then gliding in circles around their columns, drifting with the warm air currents. The first of the creatures climbs gently, rolls to one side and then pulls into a steep dive. The Quoku hurtles towards you with astonishing speed: a hawk in pursuit of its prey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to try to evade the diving Quoku, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Panting heavily you sprint up the steep slope of the tunnel. You glance over your shoulder to see many soldier Mantiz scurrying towards you. The tunnel opens into a circular chamber. Leading from the chamber are three exits: two stone corridors, one leading east and one other west, and a narrow tunnel made of earth leading south. You can hear the clack of the insect horde's pincers echoing along the tunnel. You dare not hesitate now.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to leave the circular chamber by the east corridor, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to take the western exit, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you would prefer to take the southern exit, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Clambering inexpertly upwards from the base of the cliff, you reach the small cave. You are exhausted. Your thoughts are becoming confused and it is difficult to think clearly. The stagnant odour of the mist above Lake Shenwu fills your eyes and mouth, and your senses rail against it. Inexplicably, you lose another <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and you feel your body weaken.</p>
- <p>You pull your head above the lip of the cave and peer in. The interior of the tiny cave is rough-hewn and very small.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to crawl into the cave and explore its interior, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to continue to scale the towering cliff, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sudden as a whiplash, the Quoku opens its mouth to reveal a long, hollow tongue curled like a proboscis, which lashes at Shan, coiling around his waist and dragging him towards the amphibian monster.</p>
- <p>Shan clings to the end of the Rope for all he is worth.</p>
- <p>You pull as Shan's ghastly shrieks echo throughout the gorge, but the Quoku is stronger than you, and the Rope is dragged from your friction-burnt hands. (Delete this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You know that there is no time to lose. Though you do not have your Wizard's Staff, you must make your escape. Hastily, you finish your bowl of rice containing the powdered petals (restore 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and try to conceive a plan that will secure your freedom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to try to sleep now in order to build up your strength, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If not, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to look for aid on the elemental plane. You drift into a trance and begin to chant, meditating on your need and hoping that the elemental spirits will understand the nature of your predicament. The chant over, you wait. At first, all is quiet and you fear that you have failed. Then a rumbling noise echoes below your feet, and a shuddering tremor makes you stumble.</p>
- <p><quote>Stand by the wall, away from the centre of the cell,</quote> you warn Shan. A large crack appears in the ground, widening to a great hole as the head and shoulders of an Earth Giant smash through the floor. You view the gnarled features of the elemental and his rough, mottled skin of clay with fear and apprehension. Earth Giants are the most stupid of elementals, and you doubt if this one will be able to understand fully your needs.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Escape?</quote> says the Earth Giant, in a stony voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes&ellips; escape,</quote> you say eagerly.</p>
- <p><quote>Tunnel. Wizard follow&ellips; earth is safe&ellips; no danger&ellips; come.</quote> The vast head disappears, leaving a great chasm in the ground.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly Shan, follow me,</quote> you say, jumping into the open ground. Shan jumps into the darkness behind you, and you follow the Earth Giant as it burrows a tunnel, pushing with its great shoulders and clawing at the dirt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run pell mell along the tunnel, stopping abruptly at the end. For you have made a terrible mistake. The tunnel opens into a vast chamber full of thousands of worker Cave Mantiz and an even greater number of Mantiz larvae.</p>
- <p>Enraged at your intrusion, the worker Mantiz surge towards you. You turn back and run as fast as your legs will carry you. Jets of acid burn your arms and legs, and you cry out in pain (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>But there is worse to come. Blocking the exit of the tunnel are two soldier Mantiz. You must force your way past these insects if there is to be any hope of escaping the furious horde.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Soldier Mantiz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">15</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If the combat lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Giant bursts into a vast cavern, dark with filthy, black mud. <quote>Man make tunnel here&ellips; you go up&ellips; me go down now&ellips; goodbye.</quote></p>
- <p>With these words, the Earth Giant descends into the ground, the floor rippling to cover his descent as he burrows out of sight. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>You and Shan stand alone in the gloomy cavern, a vague feeling of disquiet stirring in your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a painful jolt, you slam into the lip of the ravine and grab hold of a jutting rock with just one hand. Your grip is slipping. Frantically you search for a secure handhold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It seems as if you have only just fallen asleep when morning comes. With aching limbs, you rise to see that Tanith and Shan are already up and waiting for you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote><foreign>Kleasá Tanith, Mundi Gudro</foreign>,</quote> chants Tanith, repeating the words over and over.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the darkness is lifted, and you see Tanith throw herself on to the raging fire. The black shadow of the Kleasá flies towards her. As the Kleasá engulfs her burning body, she gives one last, agonized cry, <quote>Grey Star, do not fail!</quote></p>
- <p>The fire erupts, and in a blinding flash, both Tanith and the Kleasá disappear. All that remains is a splash of smoking embers. You swoon and lapse into unconsciousness where you lie.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52"><link-text>Turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ready for action, you throw open the door, but there is no one there. Warily you enter the shack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and search into the future. Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-315290-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-315290--> tells you that the way south, towards the Azanam, is to your left. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184"><link-text>Turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect279-1-foot" idref="sect279-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With some difficulty, you shear through the vine that pulls at your right leg, using up 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="sect279-1" idref="sect279-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Shan leaps to your rescue, hacking wildly at the tendril that holds your left ankle. With three clumsy blows, he cuts through the wriggling creeper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The harbour is full with ships of varying kinds, though there is little sign of life. Mooring the small boat, you step on to the stone quayside and survey the harbour area.</p>
- <p><quote>Psst!</quote> a voice hisses at you from out of the darkness. Startled, you spot the crouching form of a one-eyed Suhnese fisherman. <quote>Come far have we?</quote> he asks, patronizingly. <quote>And in such secrecy too! Got something to hide have we? Lurking out there at the edge of the bay till nightfall&ellips; tsk, tsk, very suspicious.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>In vain, you try to convince the one-eyed Suhnaman that you have nothing to hide. <quote>Saw your sail a long way off,</quote> he sneers. <quote>Perhaps you're a smuggler, or on the run, I'll be bound. Come now, young master. You can't fool me. What'll you offer to buy my silence?</quote></p>
- <p>With a helpless shrug, you tell him that you have no money. At first, the fisherman seems very angry, but eventually he offers to buy your boat for 20 Nobles, though you cannot be sure that this will keep him quiet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you agree to sell your boat, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you would rather not sell your boat and wish to continue into the Port of Suhn, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Quoku hovers in the air and then sweeps down in an attempt to poison you with its venomous touch.</p>
- <p>The slightest contact with this monster's flesh could spell death for you. You must fight defensively. Deduct 1 point from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Large Quoku</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You may only fight one round of combat as the Quoku flies past.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is still more than 10, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If it is less than 10, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Urgently you call out to Shan. He looks down, and seeing the grotesque creature that is stalking him, he redoubles his efforts. With uncharacteristic speed he scrambles up the slope, dislodging clouds of dust and gravel with his scurrying feet. As he comes within reach he clutches at your outstretched hand, and you haul him over the edge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The raging storm howls all around. Fine dust lashes at your face, courses through your hair and seeps into your mouth until you can hardly breathe. Relentlessly you press on, staggering exhausted against the wind. The choking sand causes you to lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. At last the storm subsides, and you find yourself on the other side of the Wilderwastes, at the edge of the Azagad Gorge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With panic growing like a twisted knot in your belly, you turn back the way you came. As you reach the end of this tunnel, you are confronted by two soldier Mantiz out to find the human invader in their midst. Just as you prepare to attack, two more come running from the other direction. You are heavily outnumbered, and there is no escape. You must fight all four insects as one enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you are carrying a lit Torch, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you are not carrying a Torch, you must proceed with the battle now.</p>
- <combat><enemy>4 Soldier Mantiz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Another bolt pierces the heart of the Yaku plant, releasing Shan and costing you 2 more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Terrified, he leaps to his feet and runs towards you, stopping only when he is standing next to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With sweating hands, you fumble with the large bunch of Keys, trying to find one that matches the shape of the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-321661-->Power of Psychomancy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321661-->, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have this Magical Power, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If the number you have picked is 0, 2, 4, 6 or 8, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If it is 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With reckless audacity spurred on by fear, you jump on to the chitinous abdomen of the Cave Mantiz. Before they can react, you have thrown yourself into the shaft, scratching and scrabbling for a handhold in the smooth sides.</p>
- <p>Slowly you pull yourself up. A worker Mantiz sends a jet of acid up the shaft, catching your leg. You almost fall as the shock of pain ravages your flesh, burning your calf. (You must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect263"><link-text>Turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fling the energy ball at the Kazim Stone. The cost of propelling this thought mass costs an extra 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>There is a tremendous flash as the two forces clash and the energy envelopes the stone. White light fills the room, momentarily blinding you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Sit, child,</quote> says the old woman, gesturing to the chair opposite. <quote>I am Mother Magri, seer of the Kazim Stone, Law Giver to the city of Suhn, Truthsayer of Shadaki in the service of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.</quote> The old crone peers at you with hypnotic eyes. <quote>Look into the Kazim Stone, boy,</quote> she commands, <quote>that the truth may be revealed.</quote></p>
- <p>Unable to resist, your eyes are drawn by the power of the Stone as it shines brightly, filling the chamber with a lurid yellow glow. With a gasp of horror, you feel fiery fingers reach into your mind and clutch at your will. Your mind is being read by a potent magical force.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is less than 15, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If it is more than 15, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldier Mantiz lies dead at your feet. Stepping lightly over the insect's carcass, you enter the passage that it was guarding. After a few minutes the passage splits into two, one tunnel sloping up, the other sloping down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to enter the passage sloping up, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to enter the passage sloping down, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to go back the way you came, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only other occupant of the cell is a sick old man who lies, barely moving, upon a wooden pallet. Your Wizard's Staff and Backpack have been taken from you, but you still possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-325469-->any items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-325469--> not carried in the Backpack (for example, your Herb Pouch).</p>
- <p>Shan turns towards you. <quote>Innocent. I am innocent of any crime, save the possession of a loud voice and the consumption of too much ale. It is said that those who enter the Hall of Correction are never seen again. Surely, they will not leave us to rot in this hell-hole. What ever am I to do?</quote></p>
- <p>You talk with the merchant for some time, discovering many stories about the Lost Tribe of Lara: of their flight into the Shuri Mountains, and the legend of their pilgrimage beyond the Kashima Mountains into the Unknown Valley and the Forest of Fernmost. You find yourself growing to like this little man with his dry humour and ironic quips.</p>
- <p><quote>I'll guide you anywhere you want to go, if you can get us out of here,</quote> he says, half joking; but he can see by the look in your eyes that you take his offer seriously, and that to you escape is not an impossible dream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dark passage seems interminably long, and the three of you are panting for breath before you reach its end. The winding tunnel opens into a large, natural cavern. You rush through the cave mouth and down the steep slope of a hill, stopping only when you reach the bottom. You gasp for breath, your chest heaving and your limbs aching.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The dark passage seems interminably long</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you have the Amulet of the Shianti priest, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn your back on the impassable cliffs and make your way to the waterfall. Here, the strange vapours of the lake are most concentrated. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to try to swim across the lake, towards the waterfall, to see what lies beyond, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to make another circuit of the lake to investigate the cliffs on the other side of Lake Shenwu, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Burdened with grief, you stumble like a blind man, trailing Shan's backpack on the ground behind you like a dog on a leash. You stagger into the deepening shadows and welcome the inky darkness of nightfall. You are now friendless and alone in a barren wasteland.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is less than 10, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If it is greater than 10, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter how hard you resist, the Stone continues to force its way into your mind. Every muscle in your body is tensed, and your nerves are shredded.</p>
- <p><quote>Resistance is futile,</quote> says Mother Magri. Her words spur you on, and you redouble your efforts. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as you struggle, and still the Stone drains your will.</p>
- <p>Fortunately, it is your body that fails you first, and you slump forwards on to the floor, a beaten shell. But the purpose of your mission is safe, for the moment.</p>
- <p><quote>Such is the fate of all who refuse the truthsay of Mother Magri,</quote> she sneers. <quote>Guards! Throw this one into the dungeon. It seems the stranger desires to hide something of importance.</quote> She then turns towards you, her sinister voice just penetrating your ravaged mind. <quote>There are other ways of extracting the truth.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the raging assault of the Darkling Room is silent. You grab Shan, who is kneeling in the mud beside you, and drag him towards the far passage, anxious to leave before the Darkling Room can muster another attack.</p>
- <p>You stumble into a long, winding passage and run for all you are worth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41"><link-text>Turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect297-1-foot" idref="sect297-1"><p>These empty Vials may be used later to contain potions. Some Vials are useless once contaminated.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the straw of the dungeon floor to make a small fire which Shan lights by striking two stones together, you heat the mixture until the crystals have completely dissolved. You plug the stopper into the vial and shake it vigorously. When you are satisfied that the yellow potion is well mixed, you walk over to the door and sprinkle a little of the contents on the lock. A small cloud of yellow gas forms.</p>
- <p>Shan looks on, impressed, as the metal of the lock begins to bubble and melt. You have used only half of the potion, and the lock is already eaten away. You may keep the remainder of the potion in your Herb Pouch for future use. (Mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Ezeran Acid in the appropriate section.) However, you have used all your Sulphur and Saltpetre to make the potion. (Remember to erase these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, although you may keep the two empty Vials, which still count <!--ERRTAG-RE-331987-->as items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-331987-->, in your Herb Pouch.<a id="sect297-1" idref="sect297-1-foot" class="footnote" />)</p>
- <p>The remnants of the lock fall away, and you push the door open. You and Shan step quietly into a corridor leading to the left and the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to go right, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to go left, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you fire into the group of workers, throwing them into confusion. The power of the Staff kills one and injures another, causing it to send a spray of its acid all around, injuring another. Seizing your chance, you burst into the centre of the confusion and make a running jump for the shaft above.</p>
- <p>As you run, you step into a pool of acid that burns through your boot, splashing deadly droplets that sear your flesh (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Too breathless to cry in pain, you reach out and cling to a shallow handhold in the smooth shaft.</p>
- <p>The confusion beneath has bought you the time you need to haul yourself up the shaft, and you climb, with agonizing slowness, to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263"><link-text>Turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>So be it, wizard,</quote> says the old hag. Once more, she draws the power of your assault, bending it to her will and hurling it back. <quote>Farewell.</quote></p>
- <p>The force of her attack ignites a wall of pain and white flame in your mind. The very fabric of your soul is torn apart, and you collapse to the ground, an empty shell.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect300-1-foot" idref="sect300-1"><p>Keep note of your Backpack Items in case you should find your Backpack again later.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your arms in a gesture of surrender and are immediately seized and led away. Your Wizard's Staff and Backpack are taken from you, and your hands are tied behind your back.<a id="sect300-1" idref="sect300-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <p>You are frog-marched through the city and taken to a large, black stone citadel, called the Hall of Correction where, despite your pleas of innocence, you are unceremoniously dumped. <quote>You can tell your story to Mother Magri now, stranger,</quote> growls one of the Shadakine. <quote>The Test of Truth will sort you out soon enough.</quote></p>
- <p>Roughly, you are pushed up a long flight of stone stairs and into a small, bare antechamber. An old woman sits at a wooden table. In front of her is a crystal ball, glowing with a dim, yellow light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sleep proves both rewarding and refreshing. You have a strange dream in which Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, appears before you. He raises his hands in blessing and chants gently in the tongue of his people. Briefly, you catch a glimpse of the Temple of Amida and a circle of Shianti wizards standing with their hands raised to the sky.</p>
- <p>They have sent the power of their thoughts to aid you. Their blessing strengthens your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, increasing it by 10 points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shan casts a sheepish glance at you and nervously enters the shack. After a brief pause, he returns with a relieved look on his face. <quote>It's all right,</quote> he says, <quote>the place is deserted.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote>. Trudging through the hot sun, you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to dehydration and heat exhaustion.</p>
- <p>More by luck than judgement, you come, eventually, to the Great Wall of Azakawa. Evening has begun to fall, and in the dwindling light you survey the great cliffs, stretching from east to west as far as the eye can see.</p>
- <p>You increase your pace, wishing to reach the Azanam before nightfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect304-1-foot" idref="sect304-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point<a id="sect304-1" idref="sect304-1-foot" class="footnote" />, you burn through the vine that clasps your ankle. The force of the tendril pulling at your leg causes you to spin to the right, whipping you towards the ugly spines of the Yaku.</p>
- <p>Shan leaps to your rescue, slashing at the tendril that threatens to drag you to your doom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You refuse the Shade's price, for you have heard that the dead are seldom fair.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> says the old priest's spirit, <quote>I cannot free you. I will, however, freely give advice, since I now perceive that you are a servant of the Shianti race, as I was. If you can find a way past the door of your cell, turn right into the corridor beyond. When you reach the end of the corridor, take the left stairway, and thereafter always turn left and always ascend until you reach the surface. In this way you will reach the gate to freedom. Take no other route, for there only death awaits. Goodbye, Grey Star, and accept my blessing.</quote></p>
- <p>The old priest's Shade disappears. The cost of this Magical Power is 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">Now <link-text>return to 172</link-text> and select <!--ERRTAG-RE-338775-->another Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338775--> to aid your escape (you may not choose Evocation a second time).</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the jutting rock falls away, and you plunge into the gaping chasm to your death.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You charge at the wounded Quoku, raising your Staff and readying yourself to deliver a great scything blow.</p>
- <p>The enraged Quoku leaps at you, and hurriedly you jump to one side, smashing your Staff down on the creature's back. It drops to the ground, knocked senseless by your mighty blow.</p>
- <p>Seizing your chance, you sprint away with Shan in tow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking a deep breath, you plunge into the seething mass and attempt to confront the Shadakine before more people are hurt. Buffeted and crushed by the confused and frightened Suhnese, rushing in all directions, you fight your way to the heart of the chaos.</p>
- <p>Through a gap in the crowd you sight the two soldiers, blindly slashing at the terrified crowd. You are standing directly behind them, but the Shadakine are too close to other members of the crowd for you to risk launching an energy bolt from your Staff. Without hesitation, you charge into the fray, Staff whirling above your head. You catch the two warriors completely unawares as you attack them from behind, spurred on by a rousing cheer from the crowd. Owing to the surprise of your attack, add 4 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat, remembering to deduct them again as soon as the fight is over.</p>
- <p>The Shadakine swing at you with their deadly, gleaming scimitars. You must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warriors</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you win, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The unsuspecting guard looks on in amazement as you charge to attack. Owing to the surprise of your challenge, you may add 4 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect137">You may evade this combat at any time and head for the other flight of stairs by <link-text>turning to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dead bodies of the soldier Mantiz lie all around you. There is no time to relish the glory of your victory, for the far end of the tunnel is already filling with many more Mantiz, certainly too many for you to challenge single-handed.</p>
- <p>You dash in the opposite direction and soon arrive at the point where the tunnel divides in two. There can be no going back this time, and you have but seconds to choose which passage to take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to take the passage sloping upwards, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to take the passage sloping downwards, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect311-1-foot" idref="sect311-1"><p>Keep note of your Backpack Items in case you should find your Backpack again later.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are seized roughly by the triumphant Shadakine who lead you away, grinning maliciously. Your Backpack and Staff are taken from you, and your hands are tied.<a id="sect311-1" idref="sect311-1-foot" class="footnote"/> For more than an hour you are marched through the streets of Suhn, coming at last to a large, black stone citadel built on a broad hill overlooking Suhn. This is the Hall of Correction, an instrument of Shadakine law more concerned with punishment than order.</p>
- <p>A burly Shadakine guard grabs you by the shoulders, pressing on your wound where the crossbow bolt's shaft still protrudes; pain shoots through your body. He drags you through the heavy iron doors and throws you to the floor of a sparse, stony entrance hall. The wound has opened again, and warm blood runs down your arm. <quote>I'm bleeding,</quote> you say to the brutish Shadakine guard. <quote>I need a Healer. This quarrel must be removed and the wound dressed.</quote></p>
- <p>The Shadakine guard looks at you contemptuously. <quote>Wound?&ellips; Dressed?&ellips;</quote> He snorts with disgust. <quote>That's just a scratch. I've had far worse fighting in the Old Wars of the Empire. No <quote>Healers</quote> on the field then. Where's your grit, boy?</quote> He steps towards you and grabs at the bolt shaft.</p>
- <p><quote>NO!</quote> you shout, horrified. But before you can stop him, he has torn the bolt from your shoulder, complete with barbed head. You feel that you must faint with pain.</p>
- <p><quote>Healers&ellips; dress the wound&ellips; hmph!</quote> the Shadakine mutters to himself. He produces a flask and pulls out the stopper. <quote>This'll stop the greenrot,</quote> he says, pouring a clear liquid over the wound in liberal quantities, washing away the blood. The liquid burns like acid, but it quickly staunches the bleeding. The Shadakine laughs and thumps you on the back, making you flinch.</p>
- <p>The crude battlefield remedy has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point, but the treatment is effective, and the injury heals without complications, although you will have a livid scar on your shoulder for the rest of your life.</p>
- <p>You are pushed up a long flight of stone stairs and into a small antechamber. An old woman sits at a wooden table, her shrunken flesh lit up by the dim yellow light of the crystal ball before her.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have found the Guard room. Six Shadakine warriors overcome their initial surprise and pounce on you, killing you.</p>
- <p>You have failed to escape the Hall of Correction, and your quest is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reaching out with your senses, you probe the minds of those seated near you. <!--ERRTAG-RE-346263-->Your Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-346263--> reveals to you that the cloaked character in the corner wishes to help you. Indeed, it seems he is waiting for some sign from you. He is a member of a holy order known as the <quote>Redeemers</quote>, pilgrims devoted to a life of silent prayer and the study of the healing arts.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the ball of energy into the Kazim Stone at the cost of another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. Immediately, the assault on your mind stops. The glow of the Stone erupts into a blinding, white light as your ball of power penetrates it. Mother Magri raises her eyebrows and shrugs confidently. She pulls the charged mass of energy towards her and throws your ball of energy back, only now it is greater in strength. As it envelopes you, you lose half your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you wish to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to duplicate her attack, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you do not want to do this, you must use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to extinguish the deadly circle of light that engulfs you. <link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for either of these options, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely, you wreak a trail of destruction with your whirling Staff, but it is already too late. The swarm of worker Mantiz behind have reached you. You are dragged to the ground, and screaming in agony, you are torn into a thousand pieces.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest come to a terrible end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip and fall into the waters below. As you hit the water, you try to scream, for the water is burning your flesh. Water pours into your open mouth; there is no hope of escape. You sink, unconscious, to the bottom. You have been poisoned by Lake Shenwu.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You expend a great amount of energy in attempting to move the heavy body of the dead Quoku. Within seconds, you fall paralysed to the ground: the poison that covers the Quoku's warty skin is lethal. You will never know if Shan survived or not.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plunge into the waters of Lake Shenwu. You begin to swim when suddenly you feel as if your flesh is on fire. Your body weakens, and you start to sink. The waters of Lake Shenwu are poisonous, and even its vapour can kill in a matter of hours. Within a few seconds, you have drowned.</p>
- <p>Your life and mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Half dazed with fatigue, you stumble in the darkness and fall headlong down a slope of loose shale, finally coming to rest at the bottom. (You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point in your fall.)</p>
- <p>You are in a wide, shallow basin, on the banks of Lake Shenwu, and you peer around, straining your eyes to see in the darkness of the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect320-1-foot" idref="sect320-1">
- <p>These losses are in addition to any you may have already sustained in your duel with the Kazim Stone.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the amazement of Mother Magri, the light of the Kazim Stone is suddenly snuffed out. You slump forward, exhausted by your exertions, and Mother Magri jumps to her feet, howling curses and abuse.</p>
- <p><quote>You dare to resist!</quote> she screams. <quote>Guards! Throw this one into the dungeons. It seems that sterner measures are needed to wring the truth from our fledgling wizard,</quote> and she smiles wickedly.</p>
- <p>You have exerted 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points<a id="sect320-1" idref="sect320-1-foot" class="footnote" /> in this duel with the Kazim Stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">Now <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have entered the jailer's private chamber. He turns and sees you, letting out a startled cry. He draws a small Dagger and charges at you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Jailer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">8</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect137">You may evade this combat at any time and head for the other flight of stairs, by <link-text>turning to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cleave a chaotic path of destruction, clearing the way ahead with only seconds to spare. The swarm of raging worker Mantiz are snapping at your heels, and gouts of acid burn into the tunnel walls.</p>
- <p>You hurry through the exit of the tunnel and turn the corner to run into another passage, the worker Mantiz barely a few feet behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw the ball of energy at the Kazim Stone at the cost of another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The Stone flares, turning an angry red as the attack hits home. The energy field of your attack lingers and then, to your surprise, is absorbed by the Stone which glows even brighter.</p>
- <p><quote>So it's a fight you want, is it?</quote> Mother Magri snarls. She flings the ball of power back at you, now doubled in strength, and as it envelopes you, you lose half your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to turn the attack against her, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you do not wish to do this, you must use 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to extinguish the energy field that surrounds you (or you will lose further <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). <link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Too late you realize that he is standing in the doorway of the Guard room. A group of Shadakine warriors pour out of the doorway and bear down on you from above, mercilessly hacking you to pieces.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The limestone towers&emdash;with their tall, ragged peaks&emdash;cast lengthening shadows across the broken floor of the gorge. Silhouetted in the orange glow of the evening sun, they unnerve you with their brooding silence.</p>
- <p>A strange creaking sound echoes above the muted rush of the Shenwu Falls. It sounds like an old, rusty door being opened very slowly. It must be the noise of an animal, although it is quite unlike the cry of any beast that you have ever known. You hear the sound again over to your right, and then again, ahead of you, as if in answer.</p>
- <p>A sense of grave danger washes over you, and Shan, infected by your disquiet, has paled with fear. With slow, careful steps, you move forwards. The hairs on the back of your neck prickle, and you have the distinct feeling that many eyes are watching you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily, you agree to accept the dead priest's offer.</p>
- <p><quote>So be it,</quote> drones the Shade. <quote>For my part, I will give you the help you seek, since I now perceive that you are a servant of the great Shianti race, as once was I. You must turn right beyond the door of this cell and, when you reach the end of the corridor, take the left stairway. Thereafter always turn left and always ascend, until you reach the surface. In this way you will come to the inner courtyard where the gate to freedom stands. Take no other route, for death awaits you any other way.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What then is the price I must pay?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>You must free the dead of this place. Step outside the pentacle and speak the forbidden tome that will release the wronged souls that have died here. The dead desire their revenge on those who cruelly murdered them. Deny them not, for your soul will be forfeit if you do.</quote></p>
- <p>You are filled with dread. It is forbidden by Shianti law to free the dead upon the Earth, for once freed by the <quote>forbidden tome</quote>, they can never be controlled. They will roam the Earth eternally, able to act in any way they choose, whether for good or ill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you agree to speak the tome, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you deny the dead, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head south across the desolate plain, but after a few minutes Shan stops, shielding his eyes with his hand as he peers eastwards. <quote>Can you feel it?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p>At first you are not sure what he means, but then you notice that the atmosphere has changed. A wind has started up, and tumbleweeds and pools of fine brown dust eddy in busy spirals. Shan points towards the horizon and you spot a great cloud of dust rolling towards you.</p>
- <p><quote>Dust storm,</quote> says Shan. <quote>Looks like a mean one.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to head back to the shack and take cover, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you would rather keep moving on towards the Azanam, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the line of the river and pick your way south. Owing to your long exposure to the scorching sun, you must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. When at last you come to the point where the Yaku plants grow, you resolve to stay with the river and overcome the difficulties of the dense undergrowth, as best you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Staff burns a great hole in the nearest Yaku plant, killing it instantly at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. Unfortunately, it was not an attacker, and still the two Yaku plants pull at you with an evertightening grip. You grit your teeth against the pain. Your right leg is being wrenched from your body and you must lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Quoku dives towards you, you suddenly change direction, sprinting towards an overhanging rock-face that will shield you from attack. As you dive into the hollow space beneath the overhang, you turn to see the creature screech with horror as the low curve of its high speed dive brings it on a collision course with the ceilinged wall behind. It flaps its wings desperately, climbing at an acute angle and only just gaining enough height to clear the wall. Shan gives a shout of delight. <quote>Quick thinking,</quote> he says, laughing through his fear. <quote>Maybe these bird-brained frogs are a bit stupid, eh?</quote></p>
- <p>You smile and give him a reassuring nod. Privately, you are not so sure that they are.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A deft blow with your Staff wounds the Quoku, making a long slash across its soft underbelly which you can see as it flies over your head. The Quoku clutches at its wound and tumbles to the ground, but it quickly recovers and launches itself once again into attack, crying with the fury of an animal in pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to fight the Quoku, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you would prefer to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With fear surging through every nerve, you dart into the east tunnel. The insect horde sweeps towards you, and a soldier Mantiz, faster than the others, reaches out and claws at your leg, raking a crimson weal of pain along your calf. With a howl of agony, you stumble and&emdash;half diving, half falling&emdash;roll along the ground, twisting to face the creature as it rears up before its prey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you have 2 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points with which to use your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are walking along a steeply sloping passage that grows darker as it heads deeper. It is almost pitch black when you come to a vast open cavern. With fear in your heart, you step into the cavern, your feet squelching on the filthy, black mud that is the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the end of the sloping passage. It opens into a larger tunnel that divides and curves away to the left and right. As you look around, you realize where you are.</p>
- <p>You have entered a Cave Mantiz nest. The Cave Mantiz live in colonies below ground in much the same way as their smaller cousins, the ants. They burrow their nests out of hard stone, dissolving the rock with a potent acid stored in their bodies. If you can find your way through the maze of the nest, you should be able to reach the surface above the Wall of Azakawa and enter the Azanam.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you wish to take the left passage, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to take the right passage, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You realize that there is no hope of Shan's survival. You have lost a valued friend, and now you must continue your journey alone. You pick your weary way around the ravine and press on towards the Shenwu Falls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Suhnese are rushing in all directions as the Shadakine rain sword blows on anyone unfortunate enough to be standing too close. Quickly you survey the scene. You note that there are two exits from the harbour area: one is the main entrance, but this is blocked by the cruel Shadakine who seek to control the riot; the other is a narrow street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to leave the harbour by the narrow street, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to leave the harbour through the main entrance, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap into attack, causing the Quoku to release the unconscious Shan.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Quoku</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head down the corridor with Shan following close behind. Two stairways lead from the corridor, and you must choose which to take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-365015-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-365015--> and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>. (Note down this section number as you will need to return to it later.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to take the left stairway, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to take the right stairway, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the bar, the innkeeper booms out in a loud voice, <quote>Greetings, young stranger. What is your pleasure?</quote></p>
- <p>You order a mug of ale, which costs 1 Noble. (Remember to mark this from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to begin a conversation with the innkeeper, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Running west along the empty corridor, you notice that the tunnel begins to slope upwards. As it narrows, you see a group of worker Mantiz ahead, intent on some task. Sunlight streams down through a shaft above their heads. You see that they are boring into the rock in front of them, and suddenly you realize that this passage is unfinished.</p>
- <p>A swarm of crawling soldier Mantiz lies behind you, their pace and numbers increasing; you are trapped between them and the wall of the unfinished tunnel. Your only hope is the vertical shaft above the burrowing workers, for you are sure that the surface lies beyond; but first, you must pass the workers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to attack them with your Wizard's Staff before they have had a chance to see you, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you wish to try to jump on to the back of a Cave Mantiz standing directly below the opening of the shaft, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without once missing your footing, you reach the other side of the Azan River. You head towards the cliffs but your reactions are slow, and you are becoming increasingly uncoordinated. You slip and fall to the ground. (Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.)</p>
- <p>By the yellow light of the mists of Lake Shenwu, you survey the cliffs once more. The cliffs on this side of the lake are jagged and pitted with myriad cracks and crags.</p>
- <p>You decide to try to climb the cliffs at this point. With groping hands, you reach for the small crevices and crannies of the cliff-face. After climbing for a while you see a small cavern directly above your head. Kicking with your feet, you scramble in.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect342-1-foot" idref="sect342-1"><p>There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. This appears to be an oversight which is not easily correctable.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect342-1" idref="sect342-1-foot" class="footnote"/>With an immense effort of will, you haul yourself up and over the edge of the precipice, scraping your body over the razor-sharp rocks and tearing the flesh of your hands and arms, leaving bloody weals of pain. Blood courses freely down your limbs from these wounds, and you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the banks of Lake Shenwu. The easiest point to cross is where the Azan River starts, for Lake Shenwu is its source. The waters here still glint a dirty yellow colour, although the luminous mist is less dense. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point as a sleepy feeling begins to overtake you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you wish to try to wade across the River Azan, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you would rather try to jump across the stepping stones, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon, you come to a wide basin below the Shenwu Falls and the Great Wall of Azakawa. You are standing by the banks of Lake Shenwu, and in the eerie darkness it is a strange and disturbing sight.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You come to a wide basin below the Shenwu Falls and the Great Wall of Azakawa</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="581"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="581"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate, trying to visualize the threat before it happens, but you receive no vision from the future and conclude that whatever is menacing you must be something unknown to your experience. Instead, your mind rings with the warning: <quote>Death from above.</quote> The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you and your companions stop to catch your breath, you turn and look behind. The citadel looms high above you, its bleak stone walls crumbling to the ground. It is enveloped by a strange mist, and the shadowy forms of the dead dance around it. Stone by stone they raze the prison to the ground. The shrieks and howls of the Shadakine echo beneath the starlit sky as they meet a grisly death at the hands of their past victims.</p>
- <p><quote>Was it you who called the dead?</quote> asks Tanith, her eyes wide. You nod, a chill running down the length of your spine.</p>
- <p><quote>A horrible death,</quote> she remarks coolly. <quote>Shasarak would have approved.</quote> She seems unaware of the ironic nature of her statement as you hang your head in shame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Head bent low, you hurl yourself into the narrow tunnel. It slopes upwards, becoming narrower as it winds and curls like a snake. Ahead you see a lone worker Mantiz coming towards you, holding a large leaf in its pincers. Without hesitation, you dive over the Cave Mantiz, scraping your back against the walls and ceiling of the converging tunnels. A gout of acid misses your body by inches as you tumble to the ground on the other side of the insect. You roll over twice before leaping to your feet once more.</p>
- <p>Countless numbers of snapping, malicious insects pursue you, but far ahead you see a dim light which fills you with hope. A faint gust of air blows against your cheek, making you certain that this tunnel connects with the surface. You focus on the dim light and force your aching legs to propel you onwards.</p>
- <p>As you draw nearer the flood of light, you see that the tunnel ends at a blank wall. Your spirits sink: are you trapped after all?</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass into a state of shock, a semi-conscious state that blanks your mind, screening it from the Kazim Stone. Mother Magri gives a frustrated cry. You are beyond her grasp, safe in a realm of oblivion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is Tanith, the girl in the service of Mother Magri. She is carrying your Wizard's Staff and Backpack. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> she calls. <quote>I've found you at last.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We are trapped!</quote> shouts Shan. At the other end of the passage you can hear the echo of running feet and the rasping voice of Mother Magri ordering her Shadakine warriors to find you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to attack the young girl, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to try to persuade her to relinquish your Staff and Backpack and let you pass, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>A great hooting yell signifies the presence of others in the leaf-green light of the tree tops. Some forty apelike men with long tails swing bundles of smoking leaves at the end of lengths of vine. The smoke gives off a choking stench that throws the huge insects into confusion. Within a few moments, they have dropped from the branches of the tree or are scurrying back along the trunk, fleeing from the swirling fumes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The strange stunted men use their tails to swing from tree limb to branch with astonishing ability, and flush out the insect invaders with practised ease</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="772" height="626"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="772" height="626"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Through watering eyes, you watch the strange, stunted men using their tails to swing from tree limb to branch with astonishing agility, flushing out the insect invaders with practised ease. These are the Kundi. You have found the Lost Tribe of Lara.</p>
- <p>As you watch the one-sided battle draw to a close, two sets of hairy arms grab you and lift you bodily into the air. Your ape-like abductors carry you through the giddy heights, leaping and swinging from tree to tree, tossing you like a bale of hay. You are being carried through a fine mist of cloud, from which the Azawood tree draws much of its moisture. Up here, in the highest levels of the forest, is a complex of wooden houses and platforms. You are dumped unceremoniously outside the largest of these tree houses: the house of the Kundi king.</p>
- <p>The old king regards you with undisguised displeasure. <quote>I am Okosa, Kundi king&emdash;why you come and who are you?</quote></p>
- <p>Quietly you tell the king of your quest for the Moonstone of the Shianti, your search for the Shadow Gate and your need of the magical Kundi vision to guide you there.</p>
- <p><quote>You no Shianti&ellips; You bring creeping death from below&ellips; Kundi guide you nowhere,</quote> he says, eyeing you suspiciously. No matter how you try, you cannot convince him that you are a Shianti wizard and that you were trying to escape from the terrible Mantiz attack, not leading it. He turns his back on you with a derisive snort.</p>
- <p><quote>I can make great magic,</quote> you say hopefully, <quote>ancient magic, <cite><!--ERRTAG-RE-377024-->The Way of the Shianti<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377024--></cite>.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Wytch-king make magic, Shadakine make magic. This prove nothing,</quote> the king replies with a dismissive wave of the hand.</p>
- <p><quote>How then, can I prove the truth of my words to you?</quote> you ask, helplessly.</p>
- <p>The Kundi King gives you a sly look over his shoulder, eyebrows raised. <quote>Prove?</quote> he says. <quote>Yes, you prove many things, I think, when Urik, wise elder of the Kundi Tribe, has words with you. Then you see some <em>Kundi</em> magic! Not Shadakine spells and whispers.</quote></p>
- <p>Patiently, you wait. Faintly, you can hear the jingling of tiny bells and a hoarse voice chanting a monotonous rhythm, tunelessly. At length, a wizened old Kundi is led into the room. He is covered in bird feathers and numerous small bells, and his mad, bulging eyes roll around their sockets. The Kundi king and the old Kundi's escorts look to him with reverence, for he is their Shaman and a respected figure in their society. To your eyes, however, he looks faintly ridiculous, shambling around you in a comic, bowlegged dance, waving and rattling a strange, fur-covered talisman in your face and repeating his dissonant litany in an endless monotone. Your own instinctive powers tell you that no magic is being performed here, and you look with interest, curious to see what happens next. Suddenly the mad old Kundi falls silent. He is short of breath, his bony chest wheezing. He bares the blackened stumps of his rotten teeth, and pressing his face close to yours, so close that you can smell the stink of his fetid breath, he speaks to you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>A wizened old Kundi covered in bird feathers and numerous small bells is led into the room</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="617"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="617"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You no look like Shianti,</quote> he says, looking you up and down with a theatrical gesture.</p>
- <p><quote>Shianti <em>wizard</em>,</quote> you correct, drawing no response.</p>
- <p><quote>You no feel like Shianti,</quote> Urik continues, running his leathery fingertips along the filthy, tattered remains of your robe. He wrinkles his nose. <quote>You no smell like Shianti&ellips; smell more like swamp!</quote> he says, exploding into a great fit of hoarse laughter, clapping his hands with glee.</p>
- <p><quote>You see Shianti, you say?</quote> he then asks, his eyes narrowing.</p>
- <p>You nod your assent.</p>
- <p><quote>The youngest Kundi child knows the <quote>riddle of the Shianti</quote>. If you have truly looked upon them, then you will know the answer.</quote></p>
- <p>The fate of your quest hangs upon the words of a child's nursery rhyme, it seems. Okosa, the Kundi king, agrees to grant you a guide to the Shadow Gate, only if you can answer the old Shaman's rhyme. Anxiously, you listen to his words, burning them into your mind.</p>
- <p><quote>Answer me this, wizard&ellips;</quote></p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>Wise Shianti and Kundi man,
- <br />Look eye to eye in tree,
- <br />Shianti man see Kundi man,
- <br />But what does Kundi see?</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The solution to the rhyme can be found in part two of the Grey Star series:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.02tfc;">The Forbidden City</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Shadakine Empire</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acpowers.gif" width="386" height="123" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="achrbpch.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Calculate your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> based on the weapon that you are using.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>If using your Wizard's Staff, note the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to expend.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-383249-->Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383249--> Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. GS indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Grey Star.)</li>
- <li>Multiply the enemy's lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used.</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Grey Star loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced <quote>IN THE WORLD OF LONE WOLF A NEW HERO HAS ARISEN&emdash;GREY STAR THE WIZARD</quote> with <quote><strong>In the World of Lone Wolf a new hero has arisen&emdash;Grey Star the Wizard</strong></quote>, <quote>Shadakine</quote> with <quote>Shadaki</quote> and <quote>GREY STAR</quote> with <quote><strong>The World of Lone Wolf</strong></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="coming">Of the Coming of Grey Star</a>) Replaced <quote>gods, the</quote> with <quote>gods the</quote>, <quote>Earth</quote> with <quote>Magnamund</quote>, <quote>us Great</quote> with <quote>us, Great</quote>, <quote>remain you</quote> with <quote>remain, you</quote>, <quote>new found</quote> with <quote>new-found</quote> and <quote>rule. And as</quote> with <quote>rule. As</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced the second occurrence of <quote>&ldquot;Shadow Gate&rdquot;</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>, <quote>day no</quote> with <quote>day, no</quote>, <quote>eyes, &lsquot;The</quote> with <quote>eyes. &lsquot;The</quote> and <quote>Star&ellips;</quote> with <quote>Star.&ellips;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>at the front of this book. If you run out of space, you can copy out the chart or have it photocopied</quote> and <quote>on the last page of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>adventure and</quote> with <quote>adventure, and</quote> and all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>, <quote>alchemy</quote> with <quote>Alchemy</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>prophecy</quote> with <quote>Prophecy</quote>, <quote>fortell</quote> with <quote>foretell</quote>, <quote>Chart..</quote> with <quote>Chart.</quote> and <quote>quarterstaff yet</quote> with <quote>quarterstaff, yet</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RA-24101-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>magical powers</quote> with <quote>Magical Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24101-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-24435-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-24435-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-24244-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>five powers</quote> with <quote>five Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24244-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-25228-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power</quote> with <quote>Power</quote>, except in the description of the Wizard's Staff.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25228-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-24205-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>lesser magicks</quote> with <quote>Lesser Magicks</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24205-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>six</quote> with <quote>eight</quote> according to a correction made in a Lone Wolf Club Newsletter, <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>, <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote>, <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote> within the Herb Pouch contents list, all occurrences of <quote>Item).</quote> with <quote>Item)</quote>, <quote>notes but</quote> with <quote>notes, but</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>your Belt Pouch</quote> with <quote>the pocket of your robe</quote> and <quote>Shianti and</quote> with <quote>Shianti, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Replaced <quote>of chart</quote> with <quote>of the chart</quote>, <quote>to random</quote> with <quote>to the random</quote>, <quote>to 0</quote> with <quote>0 or below</quote>, and <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sage">Sage Advice</a>) Removed <quote>at the front of this book</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-52324-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-52324-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) Replaced <quote>road and, after</quote> with <quote>road, and after</quote>, <quote>clearing, sheltered</quote> with <quote>clearing sheltered</quote>, <quote>points. Your remaining 2 Meals must be given to Tanith and Shan.</quote> with <quote>points, and 2 Meals (if you have any left) must be given to Tanith and Shan.</quote> and <quote>place but</quote> with <quote>place, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Replaced <quote>desperation you</quote> with <quote>desperation, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) Replaced <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Replaced <quote>rough hewn</quote> with <quote>rough-hewn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>turn to 102</quote> with <quote>turn to 90</quote>. <a idref="sect90">Section 90</a> was unreachable in the original and fits well in the context of the story here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>points you</quote> with <quote>points, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>edge you</quote> with <quote>edge, you</quote> and <quote>passed but</quote> with <quote>passed, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>tomb and</quote> with <quote>tomb, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote> with <quote>restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>your Belt Pouch</quote> with <quote>the pocket of your robe</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>Shenwu and</quote> with <quote>Shenwu, and</quote>, <quote>minutes you</quote> with <quote>minutes, you</quote> and <quote>victim and</quote> with <quote>victim, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Replaced <quote>I for one have</quote> with <quote>I, for one, have</quote>, <quote>I too,</quote> with <quote>I, too,</quote>, <quote>moving for</quote> with <quote>moving, for</quote>, <quote>Tanith, &lsquot;We</quote> with <quote>Tanith, &lsquot;we</quote> and <quote>&lsquot;He Who Serves No Master&rsquot;</quote> with <quote>&ldquot;He Who Serves No Master&rdquot;</quote>. Added <quote> <em>and</em> the Vial of Pink Liquid</quote> to the first choice, since <a idref="sect264">Section 264</a> assumes that you possess both Items.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>continue your</quote> with <quote>continue, your</quote> and <quote>Then finally</quote> with <quote>Then, finally</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-69543-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these Items</quote> with <quote>these items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-69543-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>back and</quote> with <quote>back, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) Replaced <quote>shortsword</quote> with <quote>short sword</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Replaced <quote>darkness and</quote> with <quote>darkness, and</quote> and <quote>it and</quote> with <quote>it, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>stairways both</quote> with <quote>stairways&emdash;both</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-72876-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72876-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>camp-fire</quote> with <quote>campfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote> and <quote>terrible glowing</quote> with <quote>terrible, glowing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>alley-way</quote> with <quote>alleyway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Replaced <quote>bodies and unharmed you</quote> with <quote>bodies, and unharmed, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>ends and at first it</quote> with <quote>ends, and at first, it</quote> and <quote>foaming white</quote> with <quote>foaming, white</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>long range</quote> with <quote>long-range</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Removed the first choice which read <quote>If you have the Kazim Stone, turn to 51.</quote> since it does not fit into the context of the story, and it is partially redundant as <a idref="sect10">Section 10</a> contains the same choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>shadows you</quote> with <quote>shadows, you</quote> and <quote>menacingly, &lsquot;Slowly</quote> with <quote>menacingly. &lsquot;Slowly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>light you</quote> with <quote>light, you</quote> and <quote>wind you</quote> with <quote>wind, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>beautiful young</quote> with <quote>beautiful, young</quote> and <quote>hair, all ragged and black, and</quote> with <quote>hair&emdash;all ragged and black&emdash;and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Replaced <quote>jailer's</quote> with <quote>Jailer's</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-84614-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these Items</quote> with <quote>these items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-84614-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>journey you</quote> with <quote>journey, you</quote>, <quote>magic you</quote> with <quote>magic, you</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>Alchemy you</quote> with <quote>Alchemy, you</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-86045-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Power of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-86045-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>distance you</quote> with <quote>distance, you</quote> and <quote>robes are</quote> with <quote>robes, are</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>street and</quote> with <quote>street, and</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>alley-way</quote> with <quote>alleyway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>1 small vial of Laumspur</quote> with <quote>Small Vial of Laumspur</quote>, <quote>1 Coil of Rope</quote> with <quote>Coil of Rope</quote>, <quote>A Tinderbox</quote> with <quote>Tinderbox</quote> and <quote>semi-circle</quote> with <quote>semicircle</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-92578-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these Items</quote> with <quote>these items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-92578-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-93067-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93067-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>Half-way</quote> with <quote>Halfway</quote> and <quote>cry you</quote> with <quote>cry, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>) Replaced <quote>silver Charm</quote> with <quote>Silver Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>driver and as he draws closer you</quote> with <quote>driver, and as he draws closer, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>Special Item</quote> with <quote>Backpack Item</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) Replaced <quote>Azan river</quote> with <quote>Azan River</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-101780-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101780-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-102996-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102996-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Replaced <quote>Then after</quote> with <quote>Then, after</quote>, <quote>Alchemy you</quote> with <quote>Alchemy, you</quote> and <quote>points you</quote> with <quote>points, you</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-107136-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Power of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107136-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>matter of factly</quote> with <quote>matter-of-factly</quote> and <quote>body, is dead.&rsquot;</quote> with <quote>body, &lsquot;is dead.&rsquot;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>alley-ways</quote> with <quote>alleyways</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect65">65</a>) Replaced <quote>Salve of Yabari ointment</quote> with <quote>Yabari Ointment</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>room, finally</quote> with <quote>room. Finally</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>acid</quote> with <quote>Acid</quote> and <quote>cautiously you</quote> with <quote>cautiously, you</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-120046-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120046-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Replaced <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote>crossbowmen emitting</quote> with <quote>crossbowmen, emitting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>desperation you</quote> with <quote>desperation, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>Shan and, taking</quote> with <quote>Shan, and taking</quote>, <quote>out-distance</quote> with <quote>outdistance</quote>and <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>this Item as</quote> with <quote>this Amulet as</quote>, <quote>fear throughout</quote> with <quote>fear, throughout</quote>, <quote>floor: and</quote> with <quote>floor, and</quote>, and <quote>jailer's</quote> with <quote>Jailer's</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-131670-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Evocation</quote> with <quote>Power of Evocation</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131670-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-132686-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this Item</quote> with <quote>this item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-132686-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>camp-fire</quote> with <quote>campfire</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-135449-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>Power of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135449-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>Tinderbox you</quote> with <quote>Tinderbox, you</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-137396-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137396-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-137498-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137498-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-140127-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-140127-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>instant you</quote> with <quote>instant, your</quote> and <quote>points and</quote> with <quote>points, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>creature but</quote> with <quote>creature, but</quote> and <quote>upwards and</quote> with <quote>upwards, and</quote>. In the second choice, replaced <quote>If you have your Wizard's Staff and wish to use it to cast a light</quote> with <quote>If you would rather exert 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to create a small glow from your Wizard's Staff</quote> as in <a idref="sect19">Section 19</a> since you will always have your Staff, but not necessarily the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to use it.<!--ERRTAG-RE-142635-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these Items</quote> with <quote>these items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-142635-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced <quote>5 Shadakine</quote> with <quote>Shadakine</quote> and <quote>combat, and</quote> with <quote>combat and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>warriors and</quote> with <quote>warriors, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>fades, and</quote> with <quote>fades and</quote> and <quote>eyeslits</quote> with <quote>eye-slits</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Replaced <quote>Mantiz the</quote> with <quote>Mantiz, the</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-150498-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-150498-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>) Replaced <quote>low and</quote> with <quote>low, and</quote> and <quote>straighter you</quote> with <quote>straighter, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>right you</quote> with <quote>right, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Put semicolons between the items in the list of overheard conversation and changed <quote>Dreams.&rsquot; &lsquot;Save</quote> to <quote>Dreams. Save</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote> and <quote>hand turn</quote> with <quote>hand, turn</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-159803-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-159803-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replaced <quote>Sorcery,turn</quote> with <quote>Sorcery, turn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Replaced <quote>war cries</quote> with <quote>war-cries</quote>, <quote>fury the</quote> with <quote>fury, the</quote>, <quote>staff and</quote> with <quote>staff, and</quote> and <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>below and</quote> with <quote>below, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>suddenly, wilt</quote> with <quote>suddenly wilt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>care you</quote> with <quote>care, you</quote> and <quote>minutes the</quote> with <quote>minutes, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>eyeslits</quote> with <quote>eye-slits</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>jailer's</quote> with <quote>Jailer's</quote> and <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>Calacena mushrooms, and</quote> with <quote>Calacena Mushrooms and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-173595-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-173595-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>Shan, &lsquot;She</quote> with <quote>Shan. &lsquot;She</quote> and <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Replaced <quote>lightly, and</quote> with <quote>lightly and</quote> and <quote>danger,turn</quote> with <quote>danger, turn</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-181335-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-181335-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>stairs, which</quote> with <quote>stairs which</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>far sinister</quote> with <quote>far more sinister</quote> and <quote>eyeslits</quote> with <quote>eye-slits</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>sail-ships</quote> with <quote>sail ships</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-186763-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186763-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>escape and, as</quote> with <quote>escape, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>long range attack</quote> with <quote>long-range attack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>) Replaced <quote>floor, entrances</quote> with <quote>floor&emdash;entrances</quote> and <quote>undergrowth turn</quote> with <quote>undergrowth, turn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>) Replaced <quote>screams, &lsquot;a</quote> with <quote>screams. &lsquot;A</quote> and added to the choice text <quote> or have defeated the Kleasá within three rounds</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>prys</quote> with <quote>pries</quote>, <quote>zero, or</quote> with <quote>zero or</quote> and reversed the order of the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>, <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote> and <quote>crystals</quote> with <quote>Crystals</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-195642-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>different power</quote> with <quote>different Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-195642-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Replaced <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-197097-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>Power of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197097-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-197276-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197276-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-199818-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199818-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>pain, due</quote> with <quote>pain due</quote> and <quote>pounds and</quote> with <quote>pounds, and</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-200999-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>Power of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200999-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-201566-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Power of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-201566-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>) Replaced <quote>A Silver Ring</quote> with <quote>Silver Charm</quote>, <quote>A Broadsword</quote> with <quote>Broadsword (Weapon)</quote>, <quote>2 potions of Laumspur</quote> with <quote>2 Potions of Laumspur</quote>, and <quote>A coil of Rope</quote> with <quote>Coil of Rope</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-204744-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Power of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204744-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Removed the parentheses.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>) Replaced <quote>creature you</quote> with <quote>creature, you</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>alive and</quote> with <quote>alive, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>you,&rsquot;</quote> with <quote>you!&rsquot;</quote> and <quote>long-range</quote> with <quote>long range</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) Replaced <quote>west and</quote> with <quote>west, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>crossbowman, who</quote> with <quote>crossbowman who</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>) Replaced <quote>acid</quote> with <quote>Acid</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-211312-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these Items</quote> with <quote>these items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-211312-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-211706-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-211706-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-212048-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power</quote> with <quote>Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-212048-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>power young</quote> with <quote>power, young</quote>, and <quote>willpower</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RA-215009-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>Power of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-215009-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Removed the line of periods from the first item and replaced <quote>1 jar of Ezeran crystals</quote> with <quote>1 Jar of Ezeran Crystals</quote>, <quote>with sulphur)</quote> with <quote>with sulphur).</quote>, <quote>A Pestle and Mortar</quote> with <quote>Pestle and Mortar</quote>, <quote>1 bottle of Naptha</quote> with <quote>1 Bottle of Naphtha</quote>, <quote>1 vial of Graveweed essence</quote> with <quote>1 Vial of Graveweed Essence</quote>, <quote>1 vial of Alether</quote> with <quote>1 Vial of Alether</quote>, <quote>1 bundle of dried Azawood leaves</quote> with <quote>1 Bundle of dried Azawood Leaves</quote>, and <quote>seeds</quote> with <quote>Seeds</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-223249-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these Items</quote> with <quote>these items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-223249-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>away hoping</quote> with <quote>away, hoping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Replaced <quote>visited</quote> with <quote>been arrested at</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Replaced <quote>way Grey</quote> with <quote>way, Grey</quote>, <quote>north, and</quote> with <quote>north and</quote>, and <quote>south, and</quote> with <quote>south and</quote>. Removed <quote>at the front of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>) Replaced <quote>plane, and</quote> with <quote>plane and</quote>. Changed the second choice to lead to <a idref="sect314">Section 314</a> instead of <a idref="sect150">Section 150</a> and the third choice to lead to <a idref="sect288">Section 288</a> instead of <a idref="sect320">Section 320</a>. These sections were unreachable in the original and make much more sense in the context of the story.<!--ERRTAG-RE-230633-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>astral plane</quote> with <quote>Astral plane</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-230633-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) Replaced <quote>A Pestle and Mortar</quote> with <quote>Pestle and Mortar (Backpack Item)</quote>, <quote>A packet of Ezeran crystals</quote> with <quote>Packet of Ezeran Crystals</quote>, <quote>1 jar of Yabari ointment</quote> with <quote>Jar of Yabari Ointment</quote>, and <quote>seeds</quote> with <quote>Seeds</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-233541-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the Items</quote> with <quote>the items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-233541-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>) Replaced <quote>waist, with</quote> with <quote>waist with</quote>,<quote>closer and</quote> with <quote>closer, and</quote>, and <quote>Shan but, overwhelmed</quote> with <quote>Shan, but overwhelmed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>street, which</quote> with <quote>street which</quote> and <quote>sign, which reads.:</quote> with <quote>sign which reads:</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect199">199</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-238719-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power</quote> with <quote>Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-238719-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced all instances of <quote>alley-ways</quote> with <quote>alleyways</quote>. Added the following choice: <quote>If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <a idref="sect64">turn to 64</a>.</quote> This is to parallel <a idref="sect40">Section 40</a>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-240588-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>your powers</quote> with <quote>your Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-240588-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>eyes and with your hands raised you</quote> with <quote>eyes, and with your hands raised, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>leg, the</quote> with <quote>leg; the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) Replaced <quote>fungi enables</quote> with <quote>fungi enable</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Replaced <quote>light and</quote> with <quote>light, and</quote> and <quote>enemies, who</quote> with <quote>enemies who</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>crossbowmen with your Wizard's Staff, at long range,</quote> with <quote>crossbowmen at long range with your Wizard's Staff,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>vial of Pink Liquid</quote> with <quote>Vial of Pink Liquid</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RA-247209-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247209-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Replaced <quote>length you</quote> with <quote>length, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced <quote>breath</quote> with <quote>breathe</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-251279-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251279-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) Replaced <quote>fight but</quote> with <quote>fight, but</quote>, <quote>1 potion of Randalim's Elixir</quote> with <quote>Potion of Rendalim's Elixir</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>herb warden</quote> with <quote>herbwarden</quote>, <quote>A Pestle</quote> with <quote>Pestle</quote>, <quote>3 Tarama flower seeds</quote> with <quote>3 Tarama Seeds</quote>, and <quote>Sealed pouch of Calacena mushrooms</quote> with <quote>Sealed pouch of Calacena Mushrooms</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-255346-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Enchantment</quote> with <quote>Power of Enchantment</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255346-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-255408-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the Items</quote> with <quote>the items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255408-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Replaced <quote>barbs, plunging</quote> with <quote>barbs plunging</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>It it's</quote> with <quote>If it's</quote>, <quote>table. &lsquot;they're</quote> with <quote>table. &lsquot;They're</quote>, and <quote>narrow and</quote> with <quote>narrow, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>) Replaced <quote>well and</quote> with <quote>well, and</quote> and <quote>Village</quote> with <quote>village</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Replaced <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>, <quote>intones and</quote> with <quote>intones, and</quote>, Replaced <quote>mark it as a Special Item</quote> with <quote>mark this Backpack Item</quote>, <quote>wall and</quote> with <quote>wall, and</quote>, <quote>compartment, roughly</quote> with <quote>compartment roughly</quote>, and <quote>stone, and</quote> with <quote>stone and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>alley-way</quote> with <quote>alleyway</quote> and <quote>gutters and</quote> with <quote>gutters, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote> and <quote>closer and</quote> with <quote>closer, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>back and</quote> with <quote>back, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Replaced <quote>toes and</quote> with <quote>toes, and</quote> and <quote>long-range</quote> with <quote>long range</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>bloody you</quote> with <quote>bloody, you</quote>, <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>, and <quote>defer</quote> with <quote>deter</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) In the last sentence of the first paragraph, replaced the comma with ellipsis and followed the sentence with ellipsis.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>staff</quote> with <quote>Staff</quote> and <quote>true and</quote> with <quote>true, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>Jailor</quote> with <quote>Jailer</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) Replaced <quote>reply; &rsquot;we</quote> with <quote>reply. &lsquot;We</quote>, <quote>bargain and</quote> with <quote>bargain, and</quote>, and <quote>says confidently</quote> with <quote>says, confidently</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>continue &lsquot;In</quote> with <quote>continue. &lsquot;In</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>amazement you</quote> with <quote>amazement, you</quote>, <quote>gulleys</quote> with <quote>gullies</quote>, <quote>top, and</quote> with <quote>top and</quote>, <quote>steep, and</quote> with <quote>steep and</quote>, and <quote>Shan, who</quote> with <quote>Shan who</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>strange pale</quote> with <quote>strange, pale</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>least, that</quote> with <quote>least that</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) Replaced <quote>value and</quote> with <quote>value, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">253</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced <quote>eye you</quote> with <quote>eye, you</quote> and <quote>plants and</quote> with <quote>plants, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>unharmed and</quote> with <quote>unharmed, and</quote> and <quote>skid, and</quote> with <quote>skid and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>air, we're</quote> with <quote>air; we're</quote>, <quote>close, that</quote> with <quote>close that</quote>, <quote>say; &lsquot;judging</quote> with <quote>say, &lsquot;judging</quote> and <quote>seconds you</quote> with <quote>seconds, you</quote>. Changed the choice which led to <a idref="sect306">Section 306</a> to lead to <a idref="sect107">Section 107</a> instead. The original book led the reader to an inappropriate instant death section. This may not be the most elegant way to correct this problem, but it seems to be the best compromise.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>) Replaced <quote>feet and</quote> with <quote>feet, and</quote>, <quote>Magri and</quote> with <quote>Magri, and</quote>, and <quote>sweet, a</quote> with <quote>sweet&emdash;a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>chase and</quote> with <quote>chase, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>pounding and</quote> with <quote>pounding, and</quote> and <quote>back and</quote> with <quote>back, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>veins and</quote> with <quote>veins, and</quote>, <quote>leg and</quote> with <quote>leg, and</quote>, and <quote>clearing, surrounded</quote> with <quote>clearing surrounded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>contents you</quote> with <quote>contents, you</quote>, <quote>trepidation you</quote> with <quote>trepidation, you</quote>, and <quote>Special Item</quote> with <quote>Backpack Item</quote> (to be consistent with <a idref="sect209">Section 209</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>power and</quote> with <quote>power, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>) Replaced <quote>shoulder</quote> with <quote>shoulders</quote> and <quote>speed; a</quote> with <quote>speed: a</quote>. Changed the second choice which led to <a idref="sect333">Section 333</a> to lead to <a idref="sect330">Section 330</a> instead.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote> and <quote>tongue, curled</quote> with <quote>tongue curled</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>legs and</quote> with <quote>legs, and</quote> and <quote>you intrusion</quote> with <quote>your intrusion</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>lifted and</quote> with <quote>lifted, and</quote>, <quote>last agonized</quote> with <quote>last, agonized</quote> and <quote>erupts and in a blinding flash both</quote> with <quote>erupts, and in a blinding flash, both</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect278">278</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-315290-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-315290-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect281">281</a>) Replaced <quote>air, and</quote> with <quote>air and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote>hand and</quote> with <quote>hand, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>) Replaced <quote>breath</quote> with <quote>breathe</quote> and <quote>subsides and</quote> with <quote>subsides, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced <quote>tunnel you</quote> with <quote>tunnel, you</quote> and <quote>outnumbered and</quote> with <quote>outnumbered, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>is is</quote> with <quote>is</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-321661-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Psychomancy</quote> with <quote>Power of Psychomancy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321661-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>Shazarak</quote> with <quote>Shasarak</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>) Replaced <quote>time discovering</quote> with <quote>time, discovering</quote> and <quote>Mountains and</quote> with <quote>Mountains, and</quote>, <quote>man, who</quote> with <quote>man who</quote>, <quote>Belt Pouch</quote> with <quote>Herb Pouch</quote>, <quote>Lara, of</quote> with <quote>Lara: of</quote>, <quote>joking. But</quote> with <quote>joking; but</quote>, and <quote>eyes, that</quote> with <quote>eyes that</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-325469-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>any Items</quote> with <quote>any items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-325469-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Replaced <quote>waterfall to</quote> with <quote>waterfall, to</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>man trailing</quote> with <quote>man, trailing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>) Replaced <quote>struggle and</quote> with <quote>struggle, and</quote>, <quote>mind, &lsquot;There</quote> with <quote>mind. &lsquot;There</quote>, <quote>tensed and</quote> with <quote>tensed, and</quote>, and <quote>on and</quote> with <quote>on, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>long winding</quote> with <quote>long, winding</quote> and <quote>atttack</quote> with <quote>attack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>acid</quote> with <quote>Acid</quote>, <quote>However you</quote> with <quote>However, you </quote> and <quote>sulphur and saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Sulphur and Saltpetre</quote>, <quote>fire, which</quote> with <quote>fire which</quote>, and <quote>potion and</quote> with <quote>potion, and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-331987-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>as Items</quote> with <quote>as items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-331987-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>chance you</quote> with <quote>chance, you</quote> and <quote>run you</quote> with <quote>run, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>more she</quote> with <quote>more, she</quote> and <quote>apart and</quote> with <quote>apart, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>Correction, where despite</quote> with <quote>Correction where, despite</quote>, <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>, and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>) Replaced <quote>dream, in</quote> with <quote>dream in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Replaced <quote>pause he</quote> with <quote>pause, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>tendril that threaten</quote> with <quote>tendril that threatens</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>however freely</quote> with <quote>however, freely</quote>, <quote>Goodbye Grey Star and</quote> with <quote>Goodbye, Grey Star, and</quote>, and <quote>172, and</quote> with <quote>172 and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-338775-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>another power</quote> with <quote>another Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338775-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>away and</quote> with <quote>away, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>chance you</quote> with <quote>chance, you</quote> and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>staff</quote> with <quote>Staff</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced <quote>challenge you</quote> with <quote>challenge, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>time and</quote> with <quote>time, and</quote> and <quote>single handed</quote> with <quote>single-handed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>shoulders pressing</quote> with <quote>shoulders, pressing</quote>, <quote>acid but, it</quote> with <quote>acid, but it</quote>, <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>, <quote>Shadakine, who</quote> with <quote>Shadakine who</quote>, and <quote>from you and</quote> with <quote>from you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>) Replaced <quote>Correction and</quote> with <quote>Correction, and</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-346263-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Your power</quote> with <quote>Your Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-346263-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>Staff. But</quote> with <quote>Staff, but</quote> and <quote>ground and, screaming</quote> with <quote>ground, and screaming</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>scream for</quote> with <quote>scream, for</quote>, <quote>water you</quote> with <quote>water, you</quote> and <quote>escape, you</quote> with <quote>escape. You</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>seconds you</quote> with <quote>seconds, you</quote>, and <quote>weakens and</quote> with <quote>weakens, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>exhaused</quote> with <quote>exhausted</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>heels and</quote> with <quote>heels, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>surprise is</quote> with <quote>surprise, is</quote>, <quote>want is</quote> with <quote>want, is</quote>, <quote>this you</quote> with <quote>this, you</quote>, <quote>Stone, at</quote> with <quote>Stone at</quote>, and <quote>Stone, which</quote> with <quote>Stone which</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>lime stone</quote> with <quote>limestone</quote>, <quote>towers with their tall, ragged peaks, cast</quote> with <quote>towers&emdash;with their tall, ragged peaks&emdash;cast</quote>, <quote>old rusty</quote> with <quote>old, rusty</quote>, <quote>again, over</quote> with <quote>again over</quote> and <quote>right and</quote> with <quote>right, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>plain but</quote> with <quote>plain, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>sun you</quote> with <quote>sun, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>rock face</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>) Replaced <quote>ground. But</quote> with <quote>ground, but</quote> and <quote>underbelly, which</quote> with <quote>underbelly which</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote> and <quote>stumble, and half diving, half falling, roll</quote> with <quote>stumble and&emdash;half diving, half falling&emdash;roll</quote>. Added <quote>2 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points with which to use</quote> to the first choice. You will always have your Staff, but not necessarily the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>friend and</quote> with <quote>friend, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Replaced <quote>corridor and</quote> with <quote>corridor, and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-365015-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-365015-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Replaced <quote>voice.</quote> with <quote>voice,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>ahead intent</quote> with <quote>ahead, intent</quote>, <quote>them and</quote> with <quote>them, and</quote>, and <quote>beyond. But</quote> with <quote>beyond; but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Replaced <quote>slow and</quote> with <quote>slow, and</quote> and <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>razor sharp</quote> with <quote>razor-sharp</quote> and <quote>wounds and</quote> with <quote>wounds, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>happens. But</quote> with <quote>happens, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Replaced <quote>mist and</quote> with <quote>mist, and</quote> and <quote>Shazarak</quote> with <quote>Shasarak</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced <quote>light, which</quote> with <quote>light which</quote>, <quote>light, and</quote> with <quote>light and</quote>, and <quote>grow</quote> with <quote>draw</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>agility, and flushing</quote> with <quote>agility, flushing</quote>, <quote>unceremoniously, outside</quote> with <quote>unceremoniously outside</quote>, <quote>things I think,</quote> with <quote>things, I think,</quote>, <quote>Tribe has</quote> with <quote>Tribe, has</quote>, <quote>bells and his</quote> with <quote>bells, and his</quote>, <quote>here and you</quote> with <quote>here, and you</quote>, <quote>teeth and</quote> with <quote>teeth, and</quote>, <quote>&lsquot;riddle of the Shianti&lsquot;</quote> with <quote>&ldquot;riddle of the Shianti&rdquot;</quote>, <quote>rhyme it</quote> with <quote>rhyme, it</quote>, <quote>king agrees</quote> with <quote>king, agrees</quote>, <quote>nursey</quote> with <quote>nursery</quote>, and <quote>series.</quote> with <quote>series:</quote> and added the name of the next book.<!--ERRTAG-RE-377024-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the Way of the Shianti</quote> with <quote>The Way of the Shianti</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377024-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Added a fourth step <quote>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</quote> in the first step list. Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-383249-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Turn to <!--a idref="crtable"-->Combat</quote> with <quote>Turn to the <!--a idref="crtable"-->Combat</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383249-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) This Special Item can be used in combat as if it were a normal Weapon. The Jewelled Dagger's bonus to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> should only be applied when the Jewelled Dagger is used in combat. You should not use your Wizard's Staff at the same time. This would incur the normal −6 penalty to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for not using your Wizard's Staff.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may decide that the Jewelled Dagger may be wielded together with your Wizard's Staff, and thus confers its bonus in all close combats. This makes the Jewelled Dagger a much more useful item.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) The bonus to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score provided by the Magic Talisman is added to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score only once and does not prevent your score from falling to zero.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) The exact nature of this restoration of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is unclear. There is a general consensus that you should multiply your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores by 1.5. I.e. you may add one half of your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points value to your score, remembering that you may not exceed your starting value; and you may add one half of your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> value to your score, irrespective of whether this exceeds your starting value.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) You cannot keep Shan's Backpack. Any items you decide to keep must be transferred to your own Backpack, or perhaps to your Herb Pouch if you have one and want to keep the Small Vial of Laumspur.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) It seems odd that Shan would not return your weapon. You may choose to assume that you get it back once the battle is over.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) This is the correct solution to the riddle in <a idref="sect264">Section 264</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) You are forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) The Yabari Ointment can be applied at any time and is effective until it is washed off or until this adventure is over. If you choose to apply the ointment, delete this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> but make a note that you instead are now wearing the ointment.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) You must have the Power of Evocation in order to attempt to raise the dead priest.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) If you have arrived here from <a idref="sect156">Section 156</a>, there is no description of how the Shadakine officer is killed. This appears to be an oversight by the author.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) Make sure to restore your Wizard's Staff, Backpack and Backpack Items to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>) There are numerous unanswered questions with this combat. The addition of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is straightforward, but which attribute do you lower when wounded in this mental combat? A mental combat would suggest that you will lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> as this is the measure of you mental strength. It is possible to have a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score which would mean that the combat would only come to an end when the Darkling Room's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> was lowered to 0. Using you true <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is the less paradoxical route.</p>
- <p>In either case, if your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> or <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is lowered during a round of combat, do you then adjust your combined <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score which is serving as your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for this combat.</p>
- <p>There are no easy answers to these questions. It is up to the reader to decide which solution is most appropriate.</p>
- <p>Also, you cannot use your Wizard's Staff in this combat; since the combat is mental in nature, it would be inappropriate to us it, which means that you should not be able to use <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to multiply your opponents loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) These empty Vials may be used later to contain potions. Some Vials are useless once contaminated.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Keep note of your Backpack Items in case you should find your Backpack again later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Keep note of your Backpack Items in case you should find your Backpack again later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) These losses are in addition to any you may have already sustained in your duel with the Kazim Stone.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. This appears to be an oversight which is not easily correctable.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect1">Section 1</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect18">Section 18</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect29">Section 29</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect39">Section 39</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect87">Section 87</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect101">Section 101</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect105">Section 105</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect140">Section 140</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect149">Section 149</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect197">Section 197</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect233">Section 233</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect241">Section 241</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect266">Section 266</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect292">Section 292</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect344">Section 344</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Shadakine Empire</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect5">Section 5</a>, <a idref="sect179">Section 179</a>, <a idref="sect254">Section 254</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect13">Section 13</a>, <a idref="sect127">Section 127</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect34">Section 34</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect109">Section 109</a>, <a idref="sect124">Section 124</a>, <a idref="sect187">Section 187</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect146">Section 146</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect148">Section 148</a>, <a idref="sect342">Section 342</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect161">Section 161</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect183">Section 183</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect264">Section 264</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect271">Section 271</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect280">Section 280</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
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- </data>
- </section>
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-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.19 2007/05/20 22:00:17 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.18 2007/05/01 19:04:01 Wibbleboy
-o Further changes in response to suggestions in Wiki, plus changes regarding zero endurance.
-
-Revision 1.17 2007/04/30 17:54:31 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.16 2006/10/27 14:22:32 Wibbleboy
-o Added small illustrations for puzzles
-o Corrected image heights to match updated images.
-o Made changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
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-Revision 1.14 2006/09/12 08:48:28 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
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-Revision 1.13 2006/09/06 09:01:32 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few formatting errors
-o Implemented series-wide consistency changes
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-Revision 1.12 2006/09/05 14:29:29 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few formatting errors
-o Made a few changes in response to wiki entries.
-o Removed obsolete errata comment text in header
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-Revision 1.11 2006/08/08 15:31:14 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few Errata entries
-o Updated errata and footnote lists.
-o Initial provisional placement of small illustrations
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-Revision 1.10 2006/08/07 15:26:33 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few minor non-errata typos.
-o Added footnotes regarding ammo deductions
-o Updated errata and footnote lists.
-o Began adding small illustrations
-
-Revision 1.9 2006/07/31 11:09:25 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few minor non-errata typos.
-o Added link to book 2
-o Added footnotes regarding ammo deductions
-o Updated errata and footnote lists.
-
-Revision 1.8 2006/07/28 09:05:30 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few minor non-errata typos.
-o Replaced 'potassium iodine' with 'potassium iodide'.
-o Started a new paragraph for Cutter's speech in section 253.
-o Updated errata list.
-
-Revision 1.7 2006/06/19 08:19:11 Wibbleboy
-Made errata changes for consistency with other books in series.
-
-Revision 1.6 2005/12/19 12:49:28 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few minor non-errata typos.
-o Replaced 'Denton county' with 'Denton County', 'Gulley' with 'Gully' and 'key-in' with 'key in'.
-o Updated item lists using capitals, replaced with initial capitals for consistency.
-o Updated errata list, adding missed and new entries as required.
-
-Revision 1.5 2005/12/17 21:36:37 angantyr
-- Fixed some DTD compliance (tiny structural stuff)
-- Updated header, title and acknowledgement parts (incl. bios and links)
-- Added footnote positions (for well-formedness)
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/12/07 12:42:40 Wibbleboy
-Applied misc formatting changes to match manual of style.
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-Revision 1.3 2005/12/05 21:27:42 jonathan.blake
-Fixed various issues including creating a table for weapon types and replacing character entities with character elements.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/11/30 00:11:15 cvsuser
-Major update to fix pending erratum and non-erratum reports.
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:16 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
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-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
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-Revision 1.2 2002/10/20 04:28:52 jblake
-Added filtered frontmatter and reported errata in comments.
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-Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 04:05:12 jblake
-Initial revision
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-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Highway Holocaust</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.fw;
- &inclusion.melvyn.grant.bio.fw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>12</month><day>17</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, the Freeway Warrior, champion and protector of Dallas Colony One. A murderous gang of HAVOC clansmen, led by the psychotic Mad Dog Michigan, are bent on destroying your fragile colony as it crosses the wastelands of Texas on the first stage of a life-or-death exodus to the California coast. These bike-riding clansmen are a formidable enemy: armed, cunning, and extremely dangerous, capable of launching a lightning raid at any time, day or night. You will need all your wits about you if you are to defend your people and reach your destination intact!</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Melvyn Grant.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Melvyn Grant.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Rus and Sue</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="dtd" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Iain Smith<br />Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Iain Smith (frontmatter)<br />Matthew Reynolds (sections 1&endash;105, 246&endash;280)<br />Simon Osborne (sections 106&endash;245, 281&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Iain Smith<br />Jonathan Blake<br />Simon Osborne<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Neil McGrory<br />Mark Baumann</dd>
- <!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd></dd> -->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Iain Smith</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Nicholas Matzen</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dtd">
- <meta>
- <title>Dateline to Disaster</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="calstory" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><strong>1990-1998</strong><br />Rise of global terrorism on an unprecedented scale. Political violence funded by organized crime syndicate called HAVOC<ch.emdash/>The Hijack, Assassination and Violent Opposition Consortium.</p>
- <p><strong>1998-2003</strong><br />The governments of many small and impoverished nations fall into the hands of HAVOC. International terrorists receive arms, training, and shelter in these 'Badlands'.</p>
- <p><strong>2003-2008</strong><br />Raids on oil and gas installations, assassinations, and the kidnapping of prominent world statesmen become commonplace as HAVOC attempt to terrorize the civilized world into submission. Despite public outrage and growing international tension, the major powers steadfastly refuse to give in to HAVOC's demands.</p>
- <p><strong>2008</strong><br />President of the United States and General Secretary of Supreme Soviet both assassinated at emergency summit meeting. US, USSR and major European nations create the World Defence League and declare war on HAVOC. The Badlands are invaded, key HAVOC bases destroyed, and thousands of HAVOC agents are captured.</p>
- <p><strong>2009</strong><br />HAVOC leaders imprisoned for life in 'Deep Pens'<ch.emdash/>maximum security gaols located deep underground<ch.emdash/>to prevent their escape or release by HAVOC agents still at large.</p>
- <p><strong>2010</strong><br />New leadership emerges to unify the scattered remnants of HAVOC and plan revenge.</p>
- <p><strong>2011</strong><br />A WDL train transporting seventeen 100-kiloton nuclear warheads, destined to be neutralized and dismantled, is attacked by HAVOC agents. The train is destroyed and its deadly cargo stolen.</p>
- <p><strong>2012 New Year's Day</strong><br />HAVOC hijack a WDL news satellite and broadcast a chilling ultimatum. They have planted the seventeen stolen warheads in major cities throughout the US, USSR and Europe. They call for the immediate release of all HAVOC agents held in Deep Pens, plus the payment of $2 trillion in gold bullion, or they will trigger the warheads one by one until their demands are met in full. A twenty-four hour deadline is set. WDL leaders declare emergency and request that the deadline be extended. HAVOC refuse.</p>
- <p><strong>2nd January</strong><br />First warhead detonated at Brie Nuclear Energy Plant, ten miles south of Paris, France. Blast and radioactive fallout claim millions of lives. HAVOC repeat their demand and extend deadline by twenty-four hours.</p>
- <p><strong>3rd January 'The Day'</strong><br />World Defence League agents discover location of HAVOC command headquarters on an island in the South Pacific Ocean. Immediately orders are given to infiltrate and destroy the HQ and its occupants. The assault is swift and decisive; the complex is quickly overrun and its inhabitants are killed. Yet, ironically, as the news of this victory is being relayed around the world, HAVOC enact their ultimate revenge. A transmitter hidden on the island, fitted with a time-delay mechanism, clicks on, sending its high-frequency radio signal to a communications satellite orbiting the earth. This signal is amplified and returned to earth where, simultaneously, it triggers the remaining nuclear warheads. The initial explosions set off a disastrous chain reaction that feeds on civil and military nuclear installations all across the northern hemisphere. Hundreds of millions of people are killed within days, and many more perish during the years that follow, falling victim to the lingering radioactivity and the severe climatic changes that affect the earth.</p>
- <p><strong>2012-2019</strong><br />Gale force winds sweep across the world, carrying enormous amounts of dust into the upper atmosphere and preventing much sunlight from reaching the earth's surface. Temperatures plummet, deterring survivors from remaining above ground. Communications are disrupted by gamma radiation, making all radio, cable and satellite contact impossible. Small colonies of survivors develop in total isolation from one another during these years of darkness.</p>
- <p><strong>2019-2020</strong><br />Gradually, the dust storms die down and the sun penetrates the atmosphere, thawing the earth's frozen surface. Radiation has decayed to tolerable levels, and survivors emerge to reclaim what little remains of the world they once knew.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="calstory">
- <meta>
- <title>Cal's Story</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dtd" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, a survivor, born on Thanksgiving in the year 2000 AD. When you cast your mind back to the time before 'The Day', you recall your two brothers and your sister, your parents' house in California, and summer vacations spent cruising the blue Pacific off Catalina Island aboard your father's boat. They are your fondest memories, yet your most vivid recollections are of winter vacations, when the family would drive to Dallas to spend Christmas with Uncle Jonas and Aunt Betty-Ann. Of all your Texan Christmases, the 2011 visit was the most memorable. It was also the last time you saw your family alive.</p>
- <p>Your parents had decided to cancel the trip to Dallas that year. The oil shortage had pushed up the price of gasolene to $30 a gallon, and only the rich could afford to drive long distances, even in cars equipped with solar-pacs. You were so disappointed when you heard the news that you decided to walk the 1300 miles to Dallas, and would have done so had your father not caught up with you three miles from home. Then, when Uncle Jonas and Aunt Betty-Ann got to hear of it, they fixed it with your parents so that you at least could spend Christmas with them at their ranch near Denton.</p>
- <p>From the moment they met your charter flight at Addison Airport you knew it was going to be a vacation to remember. Uncle Jonas was an oilman. He had been one ever since he graduated from the University of Texas in '95 with a degree in geology. Earlier that summer he had been put in charge of construction at a shale-oil mine near Austin, the very first of its kind in Texas, and as a special Christmas treat he promised to take you on a guided tour of the whole underground complex.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>On New Year's Day 2012, the three of you started out early on the road to your uncle's mine, located on the Austin Chalk, over 200 miles south of Dallas. The trip would take at least two days, with an overnight stop in Waco. For, in an effort to conserve energy, the Federal government had imposed a speed restriction of fifteen miles per hour on all state highways. It was a slow journey, and despite the sombre radio bulletins that gave news of HAVOC's latest threats, you can still remember your excitement at the thought of exploring those tunnels deep below the earth.</p>
- <p>Your arrival at the mine was met by a military patrol, posted there by the World Defence League. The job of the patrol was to prevent sabotage; oil installations all over the world had become one of HAVOC's primary targets in their campaign of terror. The mine was officially closed for the New Year's recess but Uncle Jonas had right of access at all times and, after checking his papers, the patrol allowed you in. It was a massive complex and, for security reasons, it was totally self-supporting. A central shaft serviced the many working levels to which there were attached laboratories, workshops and even refineries for processing the precious crude oil after it had been extracted from the rock. Uncle Jonas was explaining the function of these refineries, 300 feet below the surface, when it happened.</p>
- <p>The ground shuddered when the shock waves from the first distant explosions reached the mine, and you remember thinking that it must be the start of an earthquake, the like of which you had experienced many times at home in California. But as the levels nearest the surface began to collapse and the central shaft filled with falling rubble, you realized the awful truth. The unthinkable had happened. </p>
- <p>At first there was no way of telling the extent of the surface devastation. Below ground, the safety generators had automatically switched into operation when the main power supply failed, and the tremors faded quickly, encouraging your aunt and uncle to believe that the damage above was superficial. Uncle Jonas was confident that the military would mount a rescue operation and that you would be brought out within a few days<ch.emdash/>a week at the most. Aunt Betty-Ann was also optimistic. After all, there were emergency supplies, enough to feed 200 men for a whole month. Little did she know that the three of you would end up consuming all of those supplies, or that the mine would become your home, your shelter and your prison for the next eight years of your lives.</p>
- <p>It was a month after 'The Day' when the three of you accepted that there would never be a rescue operation. Many days had been spent in silence, hoping and praying for the sounds of excavation or a voice on the radio link to the surface. But all that could be heard was the static crackle of the gamma radiation which was blanketing the earth. Uncle Jonas proposed that an attempt be made to reach the surface by tunnelling through the blocked central shaft. It was an awesomely dangerous feat, to dig vertically through 300 feet of compressed concrete rubble and twisted steel girders, but there was no other way you could ever hope to escape from the mine. Progress was painfully slow but the work gave you all a sense of purpose, a reason to go on, even though you feared what could be awaiting you on the surface.</p>
- <p>Those years spent in the mine taught you invaluable lessons in survival. Uncle Jonas showed you how to refine gasolene from crude oil to keep the generators alive; to coax fresh water from porous rock; to manufacture spare parts in order to maintain vital machinery. Aunt Betty-Ann, who had at one time been a nurse and a high school teacher in Denton County, attended to your education and made sure that you stayed fit and healthy. Their love and support enabled you to grow during those dark days underground despite the enormous sense of loss you felt for your parents, brothers and sister. You vowed then that one day you would repay their kindness by protecting and caring for them.</p>
- <p>It was early September in the year 2019 when finally you broke through to the surface. Aunt Betty-Ann was convinced that radiation levels would still be dangerously high, and at first she was against leaving the mine. But, during the last few months of your incarceration, the static that had always jammed the radio wavelengths had gradually cleared, and Uncle Jonas was able to persuade her that this meant it was now safe to live above ground.</p>
-
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- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
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- <p>When you first emerged from the mine, you thought you were on the surface of another planet. Surely this could not be Earth? Few structures had survived the blizzards and intense cold that had swept around the world in the years following 'The Day', and now, after the dust had settled and the sun returned, the once-fertile plains of Austin resembled little more than a desert of parched and broken rock, littered with the artefacts of an absent civilization. During the first few days, when you set out to explore this wilderness, it was easy to believe that you were the only survivors. But on the morning of the fifth day, Uncle Jonas made a chance radio contact with a family called Ewell who were living near the ruins of McKinney, thirty miles north of Dallas. They told him that they had been in touch with a handful of other groups who had managed somehow to survive the holocaust. Most were isolated, unable to move due to lack of fuel, food, or water. They had urged those who could travel to join them in McKinney, to start a new community, and some were already on their way. Your uncle and aunt also accepted their invitation. McKinney was not very far from Denton, and they were curious to see if anything remained of their ranch. They planned to return home, salvage whatever they could that might be of use, and then move on to McKinney. The Ewells were enthusiastic, but they warned that not everyone who had survived wanted to establish a new community. The ruins of Dallas and Fort Worth were controlled by gangs of criminals who fought with each other and terrorized anyone seeking to reestablish law and order. They advised you to avoid them at all costs when travelling north.</p>
- <p>Interstate Freeway 35 was the only highway still intact amid the devastation that surrounded the mine. It offered a direct route home to Denton, if only transportation could be found, for Uncle Jonas considered conditions far too dangerous to attempt such a long journey on foot. It took more than a week to discover a vehicle that was still serviceable. It was an old school bus, one that had been parked in an underground lot and had survived the years of sub-zero blizzards. With a few new parts, a tankful of gas and a lot of hard work it was eventually brought back to life.</p>
- <p>Provisions, including a small generator, were hoisted out of the mine and stowed aboard before you began the journey back to the ranch. The noisy old bus bumped along the rock-strewn freeway that stretched northward across an empty sea of dust. It was a harrowing sight. Hardly a trace remained of what were once thriving communities, and the once-populous cities of Temple and Waco had barely enough buildings still standing to qualify as small towns.</p>
- <p>It was not until you reached the outskirts of Fort Worth that you encountered signs of human habitation. The road ahead was blocked by a line of wrecked autos, and at your approach a group of hard faced men and women, clad in composite costumes of leather and rivetted steel, suddenly popped up from behind this barricade. Uncle Jonas was suspicious and slowed the bus almost to a halt. Suddenly they produced handguns and rifles and began to take aim at the windshield, and he knew it was not the time to stop to ask for directions! He told you and Aunt Betty-Ann to brace yourselves, then stamped his foot on the gas and drove the bus straight through the wall of cars, scattering the punks like ten-pins in a strike. The bus was shot at many times as it sped through Fort Worth, but the street gangs had been caught out and you managed to escape from the ruined city before they could give chase.</p>
-
- <p>When you got to Denton you discovered that the ranch, like all the other nearby dwellings, had been reduced to a heap of broken bricks and shattered timbers. The sight greatly upset your aunt, and Uncle Jonas felt it better not to stop but to continue overland to McKinney. It was easy to find where the Ewells lived, for their ranch was the only place in town that was still standing. It looked more like an old frontier post than a ranch, with its fortified perimeter wall, lookout posts and stake-filled moat. But, after your brush with the citizens of Fort Worth, it was easy to understand the need for these defences.</p>
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- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
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- </illustration>
-
- <p>'Pop' Ewell, the seventy-year-old grandfather of the Ewell family, was the leader of this small colony of survivors; it was he who had urged Uncle Jonas to join them when they had first made radio contact. The colony numbered less than a dozen at the time of your arrival, yet as the airwaves became clearer, soon this number had more than doubled to twenty five. It was decided that a name was needed to identify the settlement. The name 'Dallas Colony One' was adopted<ch.emdash/>'DC1' for short<ch.emdash/>and from that day on everyone worked hard to make DC1 a secure haven for those seeking refuge from the hostile wastelands and marauding city gangs.</p>
- <p>'Cutter' Jacks was one such refugee. Before the holocaust he had been chief mechanic at the International Grand Prix Circuit near Lake Dallas, and his incredible skill and knowledge of engines was soon to prove invaluable to the colony. He taught you how to drive, and from a pile of old wrecks that you helped him salvage from the circuit he built you a powerful, customized car. You used it to patrol the highways north of the city, keeping a lookout for gangs of city punks who frequently mounted raids to steal or destroy DC1's supplies. 'Cutter' also taught you to shoot, and it was your prowess with a gun and your skill behind the wheel that was to earn you the begrudging respect of your enemies who took to calling you 'Freeway Warrior'.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Six months after you arrived at DC1, the colony was faced with a major crisis. A heat wave was causing a drought that threatened to destroy the food supply. Crops were failing and the colony's artesian well<ch.emdash/>its only source of uncontaminated water<ch.emdash/>was beginning to dry up. The drought was also provoking more attacks from the city punks who were desperate for food and water. Their common need united them and they posed a very real threat to the security of DC1.</p>
- <p>It was the last day of May 2020 when Pop Ewell made radio contact with another colony who were based in the city of Big Spring, 300 miles west of McKinney. It appeared that their situation was completely the reverse of DC1's: they had plenty of food and water but they were desperately short of fuel. They told of their contact with survivors in Tucson, Arizona, who were also without fuel. The Tucson colony reported that the territories west of the Sierra Nevada mountains had been spared the worst effects of the radioactive blizzards that had devastated the rest of the country and, miraculously, much of southern California was still widely populated. It had survived the last eight years virtually intact. When you heard the news you could hardly believe your ears. Perhaps your family were alive. You might be reunited after all!</p>
- <p>Pop Ewell called for a meeting to decide how best to deal with the crisis now facing DC1. Everyone agreed that to stay at McKinney would lead to eventual death, either slowly from starvation or suddenly at the hands of the murderous city gangs. The only option open to DC1 was to try to reach California; only there lay any real hope for the future of the colony. Your decision was relayed to the survivors at Big Spring and a deal was struck to rendezvous with them as soon as possible. DC1 would exchange fuel for food and water, and together they would join up with the Tucson colony for the final journey to California.</p>
- <p>Preparations began almost immediately. Morale was so high that a heady sense of adventure and optimism enveloped everyone. Few guessed just how fraught with danger the journey would be.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="calstory" />
- <link class="next" idref="sskills" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before embarking on your adventure, you must first determine your personal characteristics and the weapons and provisions with which you are equipped. An <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> has been supplied on which to record and amend these details as the adventure unfolds.</p>
- <p>Your personal characteristics comprise two basic attributes: <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To discover your initial <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero. Add 10 to the number you have picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your Action Chart (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 5 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total of 15). When you fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat, your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be measured against that of your enemy, so a high score in this section is desirable.</p>
- <p>To discover your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level, repeat the process, but this time add 20 to the number you have picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 8 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a total <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score of 28). If you are wounded in combat, or injured at any other time during your adventure you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If, at any time, your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total falls to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. You can regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the course of the adventure, but your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level can never rise above your initial score.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="sskills">
- <meta>
- <title>Survival Skills</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Ever since the day you returned to the surface, you have endeavoured to develop your skills and natural instincts fully in order to best defend yourself and your colony.</p>
- <p>Listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> are your five basic Survival Skills:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="driving">
- <meta><title>Driving</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ability to control powered vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles and trucks.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="shooting">
- <meta><title>Shooting</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your familiarity and experience in the use of missile weapons, such as pistols, machine pistols, shotguns and rifles.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="fldcraft">
- <meta><title>Field craft</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your knowledge and experience of all aspects of outdoor survival.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="stealth">
- <meta><title>Stealth</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your physical fitness, the speed of your reflexes and your dexterity.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="perceptn">
- <meta><title>Perception</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your intelligence, your ability to evaluate information, your education and your mental alertness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Your ability in each of these five individual skills is measured in skill points. You begin with 3 points per skill. Before starting the adventure, you may allocate an additional 4 skill points to your list of five Survival Skills. These 4 extra points can be used to improve one or more of your five skills. During your adventure, all five skills will be severely tested, therefore the higher the individual skill level, the better your chances of survival. You may allocate your 4 additional points entirely how you like.</p>
- <p>When you have decided where to allocate your 4 additional skill points, make a note of the totals in the Survival Skills section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (In your first adventure, your total number of skill points should be 19: five skills x 3 points each = 15, plus 4 additional skill points = 19 points.)</p>
- <p>If you complete successfully the mission set in Book 1 of the Freeway Warrior series, you may add an additional 4 points to your Survival Skills in Book 2. These additional points, together with any equipment and provisions that you possess at the end of Book 1, may then be used in the next Freeway Warrior adventure, which is called <cite><a href="&link.02smr;">Slaughter Mountain Run</a></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="sskills" />
- <link class="next" idref="weapons" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apart from your clothing, a number of useful items form your basic equipment. These comprise a Backpack, and a belt on which hangs your Ammo Pouch, Medi-kit, Water Canteen and Hunting Knife. In addition to these items, you possess a <a idref="map">Map of Central Texas</a>, which you carry tucked inside your leather jacket.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="backpack">
- <meta><title>Backpack</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Up to ten separate items may be stored and carried in your Backpack at any time. However, if more than three items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 1 point. If more than six items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 2 points; and if you carry a full Backpack (containing ten items) your Stealth level will be reduced by 3 points.</p>
- <p>In order to equip yourself for the task ahead, you may choose up to four items from the following list:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">SOLAR TORCH</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE (High Explosive) GRENADE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">BINOCULARS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">COMPASS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">CB RADIO</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">SIGNAL FLARE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">THREE MEALS</typ> (each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">FLEXIBLE SAW</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">GEIGER COUNTER</typ></li>
- </ul>
-
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- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
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- </illustration>
-
- <p>List the items you have chosen on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have picked four items, adjust your current Stealth level accordingly.</p>
- <p>Opportunities may arise during your adventure for you to pick up useful items. These items will appear in the text in bold print and, unless you are instructed otherwise, they can be stored and carried in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>You will need to eat regularly. If you do not possess any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="ammpouch">
- <meta><title>Ammo Pouch</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Your Ammo Pouch is where you store any spare ammunition for firearms. It can hold a maximum of the following:</p>
- <p>
- 40 rounds of 9mm calibre Pistol/Machine Pistol ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 20 rounds of 7.62mm calibre Rifle ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 10 rounds of 12-gauge calibre Shotgun ammunition
- </p>
- <p>When carrying mixed calibres of ammunition, use this equation to check how much space you have left in your Ammo Pouch:</p>
- <p>4 x 9mm rounds = 2 x 7.62 rounds = 1 x 12 gauge round</p>
- <p>Additional ammunition can be carried in your Backpack. Ammunition occupies one space for each quantity that is equal to (or less than) the maximum that can be carried in one Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="medikit">
- <meta><title>Medi-kit</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>A well-stocked Medi-kit can make all the difference to your chances of survival should you suffer injury in the field or as a result of combat. It contains useful first aid supplies, such as dressings, antiseptics, antibiotics, water purification tablets, sulfonamides, pain killers, potassium iodide tablets (to delay absorption of radioactivity) and sutures.</p>
- <p>For convenience, these medical supplies are grouped into units. To find how many units you have in your Medi-kit, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals 10) and add 2. Your total score equals the number of units with which you begin your adventure. To keep a record of them, circle the appropriate number of unit symbols in the Medi-kit section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The maximum number of units you can carry in your Medi-kit is twelve.</p>
- <p>You may use your Medi-kit units to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; each unit used in this way restores 3 points. Units cannot be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in lieu of a Meal or Water when instructed to eat or drink.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="canteen">
- <meta><title>Water Canteen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Water is essential to life, and your life will depend on having a sufficient, uncontaminated supply. You will need to drink regularly during your adventure. One drink is equivalent to half a pint and your canteen holds exactly two pints of water: enough for one day's needs. When instructed to drink, be sure to tick off one box in the Water section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you do not have any Water when instructed to drink, you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="weapons">
- <meta>
- <title>Weapons</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="close">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>These weapons aid you in hand-to-hand fighting. You begin your adventure armed with a Hunting Knife which, when used in close combat, adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Note this Hunting Knife in the Close Combat Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you find a close combat weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it. Close combat weapons will appear in the text with a close combat skill number, for example, Machete (3). This number indicates how many points this weapon will add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in a hand-to-hand fight.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of close combat weapons you may carry is <em>two</em>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="missile">
- <meta><title>Missile Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>There are four types of missile weapon:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>PISTOL</li>
- <li>MACHINE PISTOL</li>
- <li>SHOTGUN</li>
- <li>RIFLE</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You begin your adventure armed with only one of these weapons. Make your choice and then record the weapon you have chosen, together with its calibre and rate of fire details, in the Missile Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>In order to be able to use a missile weapon, you must have sufficient ammunition of the correct calibre. The following list shows the calibre of each weapon, the amount that is used every time the weapon is fired, and the number of rounds that you possess at the start of your adventure:</p>
-
- <table>
- <tr><th></th><th>Calibre</th><th>Rate of Fire</th><th>Initial No. of Rounds</th></tr>
- <tr><td>PISTOL</td><td>9mm</td><td>1</td><td>8</td></tr>
- <tr><td>MACHINE PISTOL</td><td>9mm</td><td>6</td><td>30</td></tr>
- <tr><td>SHOTGUN</td><td>12-gauge</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr>
- <tr><td>RIFLE</td><td>7.62mm</td><td>1</td><td>4</td></tr>
- </table>
-
- <p>The initial number of rounds should be noted in the Ammo Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Missile weapons cannot be used if you run out of ammunition or possess rounds of the wrong calibre. However, the opportunity may arise for you to replenish your supply of ammunition and/or discover a weapon of the correct calibre.</p>
- <p>You may carry a maximum of three missile weapons. However, for every missile weapon that you carry (excluding your initial choice), you must reduce your Stealth level by 1 point.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Close Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="weapons" />
- <link class="next" idref="numbered" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions when you will have to fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level will both be given in the text. Your aim in close combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero or below while losing as few of your own <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible.</p>
- <p>At the start of a close combat, enter both your own and your enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Close Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for close combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through the use of close combat weapons to your current <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example<br />Cal Phoenix (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 17) is attacked by a Renegade Clansman (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 18). He is not given the opportunity to evade close combat, but must stand and fight his adversary. Cal Phoenix is armed with a Hunting Knife, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total CLOSE COMBAT SKILL of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Renegade Clansman's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.plus/>1 (19 <ch.minus/> 18 = <ch.plus/>1). He notes this <ch.plus/>1 on his <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>After working out your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the number that you have picked (the random numbers appear down the side of the chart). You now have the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Cal Phoenix and his enemy in this round of close combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; CP represents points lost by Cal Phoenix.)</p>
- <p>Example<br />The Combat Ratio between Cal Phoenix and the Renegade Clansman has been established as <ch.plus/>1. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 4, then the result of the first round of close combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Cal Phoenix loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Renegade Clansman loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, start the next round of close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from stage 3.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This procedure continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Cal Phoenix are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead. If Cal Phoenix is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Cal Phoenix proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points possibly reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">Summary of the Close Combat Rules</a> appears on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade close combat. If you have already engaged in a round of close combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored; only Cal Phoenix may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but that is the risk of running away! You may evade combat only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a week of careful preparation, the colony is ready to begin the long trek to Big Spring. Three vehicles have been picked to make up the convoy: the school bus, your customized roadster, and a gasolene tanker that was salvaged from an old drilling site at nearby Greenville. Cutter and your uncle have rigged up a square canvas canopy to hide the tanker's tell-tale cylindrical body, which now holds over 5,000 gallons of petroleum, siphoned from the underground storage tanks at the Ewell ranch. In this fuel-starved world, gasolene is the most valuable of all commodities. If the city gangs were to discover that DC1 were transporting such a precious load they would stop at nothing to capture it.</p>
- <p>Most of the colony will be travelling aboard the bus, which will be driven by your uncle. Cutter will drive the tanker and you, acting as scout, will drive your roadster at the head of the convoy. With the bus full of passengers, luggage is limited to essential supplies only; everything else will be destroyed before leaving McKinney. At dawn, on the day before the convoy is to set off, a thorough check is made of the vehicles and provisions. There is enough food and water to reach your destination but, apart from your personal weapons, the colony has very few firearms with which to defend itself.</p>
- <p>Long Jake Bannerman, a former roustabout from Gainsville, has volunteered to drive north and search for weapons and ammunition. His brother once owned a hardware store in Sherman and kept his stock of sporting guns locked in the basement. Although they may have to be dug out there is a good chance that they have survived intact. Everyone agrees that it is worth a try, and so Jake, equipped with a CB radio, a shovel, and a rusty revolver, sets out for Sherman in his beat-up old truck.</p>
- <p>Two hours later he radios a message from Sherman. He has found rifles and ammunition, but his truck has broken down and he is now stranded in the town. He has also found a survivor<ch.emdash/>a teenage girl<ch.emdash/>and he requests that you come to pick them up as soon as possible. Uncle Jonas agrees. He tells him to sit tight and wait for you to arrive.</p>
- <p>'Trust Jake to go an' maroon hi'self with a gal!' grumbles Uncle Jonas, wryly. 'Cal, you better git your body up to Sherman and haul 'em back here. An' no messin' with street punks on the way, y'hear!'</p>
- <p>'We'll be back in time for breakfast!' you reply, cheerily, as you slide behind the wheel of your roadster and fire up its throaty V-8 engine. Then, with a farewell wave, you power the car out of McKinney and speed northwards to Sherman along what remains of Highway 75.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press your face against the metal stock of your machine pistol, take careful aim at the enemy sniper perched on the building opposite, and squeeze the trigger.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If your total score is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to search the bodies for items that may help you survive when you hear the mob ascending the stairs. Immediately you abandon the idea and concentrate on making an escape. At the end of the corridor is an open window. Below is an alleyway that passes to the rear of the bar. Without a moments hesitation, you climb out onto the ledge and leap to the ground, landing with a jolt that leaves you breathless. Gasping for air, you stagger along the alley and out into a deserted street. The jump has robbed you of stamina but at least you didn't break any bones.</p>
- <p>Desperately you look for somewhere to hide while you recover. An old boarding house opposite seems to be the answer to your prayers, and you cross the street and enter before the mob reappears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recall that these letters are the chemical symbol for sodium chloride<ch.emdash/>common salt. You have stumbled upon a huge stockpile of a substance that is vital to human survival, yet one that is becoming harder to find with every passing day. In your excitement you let out a shout and can barely stop yourself from dancing around the crate in sheer delight.</p>
- <p>You decide to take as many tubs of salt as you can carry and return to the convoy without delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect5-1-foot" idref="sect5-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull and release the bolt of your G-12, then level the barrel at the leading dog as it gets ready to make its leap. Hurriedly you squeeze off a burst of fire that rips through its chest and sends its lifeless body spinning backwards among the rest of the pack.<a id="sect5-1" idref="sect5-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The death of their brother, and the noise and fury of your weapon, brings the pack to a sudden halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bullet clips you, drawing a crimson line across the top of your right forearm before it ricochets off the steering wheel: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You wince at the pain and curse your unseen attacker, but you do not lose control of your roadster. Stoically you staunch the bleeding and continue to lead the convoy on its detour around Westbrook.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moonlight pours in through a large hole in the roof, illuminating the interior of the store. Judging by the nature of the debris littering the floor, this place was once a liquor store. Most of its stock was consumed by the Skulls when they first took over the town, but after a careful search, you discover a <typ class="item">Bottle of Bourbon</typ> still intact.</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep this item, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">To leave the store and continue, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your pistol, take aim at the widest part of the clansman's torso, and hold your breath as you get ready to fire.</p>
- <p>Add your Shooting skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If your total score is now 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If your total score is now 16 or more, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your bullet hits home, striking the machine gunner squarely in the chest and spinning him away from the window with the force of its impact. You breathe a little easier. Then a long burst of fire echoes from inside the building, causing you to duck involuntarily. But this time you are in no immediate danger. Your single shot proved fatal and, in the throes of death, your enemy has emptied a full magazine into the walls and shattered ceiling of the drugstore.</p>
- <p>Remember to erase one 9mm round from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">To continue, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land heavily, slip, and lose your footing. Desperately you throw out your hands to stop yourself from falling, and you manage to grab the edge of the door itself. But your legs are now being dragged along the freeway at forty miles an hour: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 = 10) and add to it your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If your total is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If your total is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your caution was well placed. As you focus on the town you count over twenty motorcycles parked at random along the highway. Their riders are looting the stores and houses nearby, and much of what they have found lies heaped beside their machines. Suddenly a pinpoint of light climbs into the sky and explodes with a brilliant white flash that illuminates the surrounding landscape.</p>
- <p>'What do you make of that?' you say, as Cutter and Kate join you to find out what is wrong.</p>
- <p>'It's a signal flare,' replies Kate. 'I think they've seen us.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The climb is steep and tortuous but you manage to reach the top of the gully in one piece. Carefully, you pick your way around the edge until you happen upon a narrow path that ascends towards the flickering light on the mountainside above. As you draw closer, you see that the light is being cast by a small fire burning at the entrance to a cave. You approach with caution. As you draw level with the cave, you are greeted by a strange and curious sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A gnawing pain, brought on by the exertion of opening your backpack, stiffens your right hand. You grit your teeth and persist until your aching fingers locate the tip of your survival flare. With care you remove it from the pack and position it between the ropes that bind your body in such a way as to avoid burning yourself when you set it off.</p>
- <p>Less than a dozen clanswomen and children are on the street when you decide to fire the flare. There is a flash of red light at your side as it erupts into life, then you are engulfed by a huge cloud of choking crimson smoke. The flare alerts the clanswomen who immediately raise the alarm while you struggle against your smouldering bonds.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If the number is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your hand and give the signal to stop. The tanker and the bus slow to a halt and, as you bring your own vehicle to a standstill, you switch off the ignition and reach for your gun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you are using a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you are using a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you are using a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you are using a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you strike your killing blow, you raise your eyes, expecting to see the other clansman reloading, but instead he discards an empty magazine and turns to run back to his bike. He has exhausted his ammunition and has decided to make his escape before you have a chance to return fire. As he rides off, Kate reaches the top of the slope and suggests that you search the body of the one who did not get away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach for a close combat weapon as the first of the pack reaches the highway and comes bounding towards you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>You know too well that one scratch from an infected dog will seal your doom.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="649" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="649" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You have encountered rabid dogs before and know only too well that just one scratch from an infected beast will seal your doom. You must fight with speed and skill if you are to survive this deadly attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rabid Dog</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <choice idref="sect113">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If the fight lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes just four seconds for the clansman to pump thirty bullets into the side of your roadster. Several of the special armour-piercing loads pass straight through the thin metal sheeting that encases the driving compartment, and wound you in a line from your shoulder to your thigh. The force of their impact knocks you across the passenger seat and, as you fall, you pull the steering wheel and send the car veering wildly out of control. It careers off the road and rolls over and over until finally it explodes with a tremendous roar.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here on Freeway 20.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you break cover, gunfire erupts from all sides. In the hope of making yourself a difficult target you zigzag towards the door, but your manoeuvre is anticipated and a stream of bullets tears up the ground ahead, dangerously close. Long Jake shouts encouragement, and you are within a few feet of the doorway when a sharp burning sensation lances your right forearm: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the sudden pain of your wound, you force yourself forwards and fall headlong through the doorway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and your mouth fills with a thick, hot liquid. You have been hit in the face by a sniper's bullet, fired from a diner on the other side of the highway, and your wound is fatal. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Westbrook.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect20-1-foot" idref="sect20-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the keypad puzzle in <a idref="sect152">Section 152</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you tap the number 20 on the keypad,<a id="sect20-1" idref="sect20-1-foot" class="footnote" /> there is a sharp <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia> and the steel door swings inwards to reveal the shelved walls of a strongroom beyond. You smile with satisfaction at having cracked the university's door code: the number in the last column of each row is the sum of the numbers in the first two columns, minus the number in the third column.</p>
- <p>Curious as to what lies within, you enter the strongroom and inspect its dusty shelves. This concrete vault contains the documentation of experiments and small quantities of what were once considered precious metals<ch.emdash/>gold, platinum, silver and titanium. After a thorough search you find three items that you may be able to put to practical use:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Geiger Counter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Altimeter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Radiation Suit</typ> (occupies two item spaces in the Backpack)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">To leave the strongroom and return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You react swiftly to the danger by pulling the steering wheel to the left and leaning with your car as it swerves across the freeway. A moment later you hear the metallic whine of the bullet as it ricochets off the edge of your windshield. Tiny fragments of the high-velocity bullet pepper your headrest but you survive the attack unscathed. Quickly you recover control of your car and signal to the others to accelerate. By the time the unknown sniper has reloaded his rifle, you and the convoy are speeding away from the bridge, obscured by a cloud of dust.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Obstructions are few on this stretch of Freeway 35. Most of the wrecks that once choked this route into Fort Worth now lie in dusty heaps at the side of the road, their bodies having been stripped of serviceable parts long ago by city gang scavengers. The piles of auto-shells steadily increase as you near the outskirts of Fort Worth, warning you of the increasing likelihood of ambush and prompting you to keep your eyes peeled for anything that could pose a threat to the convoy.</p>
- <p>To your left, you can see the buildings of downtown Dallas perched precariously around the edge of a huge crater. These once-gleaming towers of mirrored glass and steel now lie black and broken, like a circle of charred bones. It is a murderously chilling sight.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>At a junction on the outskirts of Fort Worth, you decide to leave Freeway 35 and follow a safer route that will take you around the city. The remains of Highway 820 serve your purpose well, until you reach another junction where the Jacksboro Highway crosses your path. In order for the convoy to connect with Freeway 20, the interstate highway that leads all the way to Big Spring, you must traverse one major obstacle<ch.emdash/>the Trinity River.</p>
- <p>You consult your <a idref="map">map</a>. There are two places where the convoy can cross the Trinity, both of them close by. Two miles further along Highway 820 there is a bridge over Lake Worth. Two miles north, along the Jacksboro Highway, another bridge crosses the river at a place called Lakeside Village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to check out the bridge at Lakeside Village, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you decide to continue along Highway 820, and attempt to cross the Trinity River at Lake Worth, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect23-1-foot" idref="sect23-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You squeeze the trigger and immediately the rider throws his hands to his face.<a id="sect23-1" idref="sect23-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He swoons, falls backwards, and then tumbles from the saddle. Before the sidecar rider can jump free, the speeding machine careers off the road into the wall of an office building, and explodes in a searing ball of flame.</p>
- <p>With grim satisfaction you stare at the burning wreckage, but your gaze is soon distracted by a column of motorcycles<ch.emdash/>the main body of the clan<ch.emdash/>as it rides into view. They are now less than a mile from the bridge. 'C'mon you two!' shouts Cutter. 'It's time to go.' The tanker has made it across the platform and is now parked with the other vehicles on the far side of the river. Kate is running towards you from the factory, and as she reaches the bridge, you call out to her: 'Set the bomb! I'll cover you!'</p>
- <p>Tensely you watch the clansmen as they gun their bikes along the freeway, and you glance repeatedly over your shoulder, praying for Kate to signal that the bomb is ready. Then the front line of bikers open fire with their machine pistols, and suddenly the air is filled with the whine and whistle of bullets. 'It's ready!' shouts Kate, and takes off across the bridge at a run.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score and your Stealth skill total. (Note: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If your total is 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If your total is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thumb back the switch and point the narrow beam of light at the ground. To your surprise you are standing on the edge of a deep gully, the remains of a dried-out stream that once gushed and tumbled down this rocky mountainside.</p>
- <p>Carefully, you pick your way around the gully and follow a narrow path that ascends towards the flickering light. As you draw closer, you see that the light is being cast by a small fire burning at the entrance to a cave. You switch off your torch and approach with caution. As you draw level with the cave, you are greeted by a strange and curious sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to unsheathe your weapon moments before the rattlesnake lunges at your legs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Diamondback Rattlesnake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of its attack, you have only one chance of killing the snake before it bites you. Conduct the first round of combat using the normal combat procedure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If the snake loses the greater number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the initial round, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you lose the greater number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the initial round, do not deduct them from your total, but instead <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you unsling your shotgun and trombone a 12-gauge shell into the breach. The machine gunner disappears from view, reappearing a moment later with his reloaded gun held at waist level, ready to fire.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>In one swift, smooth movement you bring your gun to your shoulder and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If the total is now 0-5, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the muzzle flash of his rifle and feel a red-hot pain cut across the top of your head as the bullet creases your scalp. In the next instant you feel a tremendous jolt as your roadster hits the rifleman and sends his broken body spinning through the air. You brace yourself against the wheel, but Kate is thrown forwards against the dashboard and gashes her forehead. At first you fear that she is badly injured, but she recovers quickly and, using dressings from her Medi-kit, she attends selflessly to your head wound before treating her own. As a result of her prompt treatment, you do not lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect28-1-foot" idref="sect28-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you unsling your rifle you glance at the breach, taking note of the red tag which indicates that a round is chambered ready to fire. Then swiftly you raise the gun to your shoulder, flick the safety and take aim at the leading dog. You fire as it leaps and your bullet passes clean through its body, killing it instantly and wounding another in the pack behind.<a id="sect28-1" idref="sect28-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to fire a second round at these rabid dogs and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have run out of ammunition, or choose not to fire a second round, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your back bent beneath the combined weight of your equipment, fifty pounds of salt and the thick roll of polythene sheeting that is slung around your shoulders, you slowly make your way back to the convoy. The sight of you staggering out of the campus, half-hidden beneath the mountain of items you have salvaged, provokes a loud roar of laughter from the bus. Cutter Jacks and Uncle Jonas come to your aid, both resisting the urge to poke fun at you. When they discover what you are carrying, their mouths drop open in amazement.</p>
- <p>Word spreads and everyone is suddenly eager to congratulate you. You decide to keep one of the tubs (mark the <typ class="item">Salt</typ> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item<ch.emdash/>if you already carry the maximum number, you must discard another item in favour of this one). As soon as all your precious discoveries are loaded safely on the bus, you climb back into your roadster and lead the convoy along the southbound carriageway of Freeway 35.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The billowing smoke threatens to suffocate you before you have a chance to break free. Frantically you pull at the ropes until they give, then you stagger out of the smoke, coughing and retching violently: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>No sooner have you recovered from the effects of the smoke than you are faced with another peril. An Indian clansman is running at you, holding a wide-bladed machete above his head. With a scream, he leaps forwards and takes a swipe at your neck.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>An Indian clansman is running at you, holding a wide-bladed machete above his head.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Choctaw</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stoop to pick up one of the spent cartridges, an empty 7.62mm casing. As you are inspecting it, a heavy weight lands on your back, forcing you to your knees: you have been smothered by a large rope net thrown from the roof of the sheriff's office.</p>
- <p>The silence is shattered by a riot of noise as a dozen screaming clansmen surround your struggling form. Grasping hands snatch your weapons (erase all your missile and close combat weapons from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) before they drag you<ch.emdash/>still ensnared in the net<ch.emdash/>through the entrance doors and along a narrow corridor. At the far end of the corridor, a pair of evil-smelling clansmen pull you out of the net and throw you head first into an empty cell. As the heavy iron door clangs shut, you stagger wearily to your feet and survey your spartan surroundings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you possess either a <typ class="item">File</typ> or a <typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ>, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glance over your left shoulder to see the biker hauling himself into a crouching position in readiness to leap into the seat beside you. Quickly you reach for your Hunting Knife and prepare to receive his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bronx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your need to remain in control of the roadster throughout the combat, reduce your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutter and Kate leave the bus and come forward to find out what is wrong. 'I'm not sure I like the look of this place,' you say, pointing along the road towards Coahoma.</p>
- <p>Cutter produces a pair of binoculars from a leather case slung over his shoulder, and presses them to his eyes. 'Your senses are servin' you right, Cal,' he says, quietly, as he scans the town. 'Here, take a look at this.'</p>
- <p>You take the glasses and, when you focus on the town, you can see over twenty motorcycles parked along the highway. The riders are looting the stores and houses nearby, and much of what they have found lies heaped beside their machines. Suddenly a pinpoint of light climbs into the sky and explodes with a brilliant white flash that illuminates the surrounding landscape. 'What do you make of that?' you say, uneasily.</p>
- <p>'It's a signal flare,' replies Kate. 'I think they know we're here.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scratches that cover the walls of the trench indicate that it was excavated entirely by hand. You scan the surrounding landscape through your lenses, hoping to find some clue as to the identity of the person who dug the trench. Almost immediately you notice a group advancing towards you from the north. Slowly you increase the magnification until the figures become clear: two scrawny-looking men are leading a pack of five alsatian hounds in your direction.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals zero).</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If the number you have picked is equal to, or less than, your current Perception skill level, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If it is greater than your current Perception skill level, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A deafening roar fills the bar as both barrels of a Browning Citori GII shotgun are discharged almost simultaneously. The heavy loads rip through the front of the counter and hit you in the side, spinning your body with the numbing force of their impact, and dislodging most of the rickety shelves that line the wall. The last thing you see, as darkness descends, is a jumble of bottles and glasses cascading towards your face.</p>
- <p>Your life and your journey end here in Cross Plains.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you cruise along the deserted freeway you glance frequently to the north, on the lookout for a dust cloud that would herald the arrival of the Detroit Lions. But no matter how hard you try to concentrate on your role as convoy scout, you cannot seem to think of anything but your growing affection for Kate. An hour later, as you reach Colorado City, your romantic daydreaming is brought to an abrupt end as a serious problem looms into view.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The apex of the bridge that carries Freeway 20 across the Colorado River has collapsed, leaving a gap nearly eight feet wide. You stop the convoy and Cutter examines the damage. He returns to report that the bridge is not beyond repair. 'It's gonna take at least three hours, maybe four, to rig a ramp across that gap strong enough to support the tanker,' he says, squinting at the bridge.</p>
- <p>At length it is decided that you should scout along the river for another place to cross, while the colony sets to work building a ramp. Then, if your search proves fruitless, at least the repair of the bridge will be well under way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to scout along the river to the north, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you decide to scout along the river to the south, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'You may not need these, but have 'em anyway,' says Kate, holding out two 12-gauge cartridges.</p>
- <p>'Every little helps,' you reply, gratefully, as you take them from her hand (remember to note these on your Ammo Pouch). You press the shells into your gun's magazine and chance another look over the edge of the slope to fix the enemy's position in your mind.</p>
- <p>'I'll go left,' whispers Cutter.</p>
- <p>'Whenever you're ready,' you reply, and tense your body in preparation for the run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A 1960s Thunderbird convertible, its bodywork and chrome gleaming as if it were only a day old, glides towards you like something out of a dream. Behind the driver stands a tall figure with dark, hungry eyes. He is dressed as an Indian chief, with a lamella breastplate and a magnificent head-dress of eagle feathers which frames his stern face. The car draws to a halt and proudly the chief addresses the crowd that kneels before him.</p>
- <p>'We of the Nanoc are the chosen ones,' he cries, his words drawing the reply 'be it so' from his clan. 'By the strength of our faith have we been spared the great wrath of Hastsezini, god of fire. Now, the time has come for us to reclaim the land of our forefathers. I, Chief Drawoher, call upon Heng, the Thunder Spirit, to bring rains to quench the thirsty earth.'</p>
- <p>On hearing his words, several of the clan get to their feet and begin to dance around the totem, chanting as they raise their faces to the sky. 'This night Heng will hear our call,' says the chief, excitedly. Then he points at you with his tomahawk and utters the chilling words. 'This night shall we offer this soul as sacrifice to the spirit of thunder.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside, the colony are huddled on the ground with their hands over their heads, waiting for the bridge to blow. A few seconds after you enter the church and take cover next to Kate, there is a tremendous flash, followed almost immediately by a deafening roar like a violent earthquake that shakes the walls and floor. Dust and debris fall from the rafters but miraculously no one is injured, and when finally the tremors cease and you go outside to survey the scene, all you can see is a vast cloud of dust hanging over the place where the Colorado City bridge once spanned the river.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231"><link-text>Turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cradle your rifle in your left hand and, with your right, you work a round into the chamber. The moving shadow of your enemy half fills the window as you raise your weapon, flick back the safety catch and take aim at his chest.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If the total is now 0-5, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scream at your people to get away from the window as hurriedly you load, raise, and then aim your rifle at the rider's chest.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If your total score is 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If your total score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The road to Cross Plains is virtually free of the craters and other hazards that have plagued your journey so far, enabling you to drive at speed at last. You are glad of the cooling breeze but you cannot shake off your presentiment that danger awaits you in Cross Plains. Tyre tracks in the dust, some no more than a few days old, indicate that this highway is used by other four-wheeled vehicles.</p>
- <p>When the town appears in the distance, caution prompts you to stop your car at a derelict gas station. You park it under cover, inside an empty repair shop at the rear of the building, then venture into Cross Plains on foot.</p>
- <p>Tyre tracks zigzag the main street, but you can see no sign of the vehicles that made them. The place itself appears deserted and unremarkable, yet your mind warns you to stay alert. At a junction near the centre of the town you notice something unusual: a tall wooden pole, carved and painted in the fashion of an old Comanche totem, has been erected in the middle of the street.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your current Stealth and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If your total score is now 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take hold of the crate, ready to wrench it open but, to your surprise, the wood is infested with dry rot and crumbles to dust under the slightest pressure. You strip away the flaky timbers to discover hundreds of square plastic tubs, held together by a sheet of clear polythene<ch.emdash/>just what your uncle wanted! Using your hunting knife, carefully you lay open the sheet, peeling it away from the tubs, and rolling it up for future use.</p>
- <p>On the tubs themselves are blue and white labels that display the letters: NaCl.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Perception skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If the total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With trembling hands, you rip open your Medi-kit and inspect the vaccines and serums that you are carrying. To your relief you discover that one of your kits contains an ampoule of Dysalomine, a synthetic anti-rabies vaccine. Quickly you break open the sealed top and expose the sterile tip of the hypodermic syringe that is fitted to the ampoule. Then you inject the half cubic inch of life-saving vaccine into your forearm.</p>
- <p>Remember to erase one Medi-kit unit from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of relief washes over you when you discover that there is an ampoule of snake bite serum in your Medi-kit. Quickly you administer the injection and the pain slowly subsides (remember to erase one unit from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). As the serum takes effect, it makes you nauseous, causing you to retch violently: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Eventually these side effects disappear, but they leave you shaky and dehydrated.</p>
- <p>You must now take two Drinks (or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you climb back into your roadster and return to the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive at a ridge of high ground that overlooks the ruins of Denton. The place is familiar<ch.emdash/>you have stopped here many times over the past few months during your routine patrols of the area, to check that the town was not being used as a base by the gangs who were raiding McKinney. Although you cannot see anything out of the ordinary, you sense that something is wrong, that there is a hidden danger lurking in Denton. Your skin prickles at the thought of investigating the ruins lest your suspicions prove correct, but, on the other hand, the convoy must reach the freeway. You consider your options carefully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you possess some <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to return to the convoy and tell them to avoid Denton, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide to ignore your fears and investigate the ruins, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to throw yourself to the ground but before you reach it you are hit in the side and spun out into the open. A starburst of pain explodes in your head and the taste of blood fills your mouth. You have been hit in the face by a tracer shell and death is virtually instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Colorado City.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Consciousness returns slowly and painfully. With your head pounding fit to burst, you ease yourself into a sitting position and gaze upon your new surroundings. You are in a prison cell, empty save for a wooden bunk. A solitary open window, criss-crossed with pitted steel bars, provides the only source of light and ventilation, and a heavy steel door the only means of access. You no longer possess any weapons or backpack equipment (be sure to erase all your missile and close combat weapons, together with any items you were carrying in your Backpack) but you still possess your Medi-kit, Ammo Pouch and Water Canteen.</p>
- <p>Standing on the edge of the bunk, you are able to peer through the bars at an alleyway that runs along the rear of the building, which you recognize to be the sheriff's office. However, without weapons, or any other means of dislodging the bars, you have no hope of escaping through the window.</p>
- <p>An hour later you hear your captors laughing in the corridor outside. A key rattles in the lock and the cell door swings back to reveal a barrel-chested clansman, clad in a suit of black leather which is adorned with sharpened metal studs. He fixes you with his small bloodshot eyes, and sneers contemptuously.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>The cell door swings back to reveal a barrel-chested clansman.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="590" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="590" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'You scoutin' for the Skulls, ain't you boy?' he says, his hand caressing the butt of a pistol that is holstered on his hip. 'That 'roach Alcatraz sent you here t'check us out, didn't he?' Resentful mutterings fill the corridor outside, urging the beady-eyed clansman to settle the matter by shooting you.</p>
- <p>'Do I look like a Skull?' you ask defensively.</p>
- <p>'Maybe not,' he growls, 'but if you ain't a Skull, what are you doing nosin' around Albany?'</p>
- <p>Choosing your words with care, you manage to convince the clansman and his cohorts that you are a loner, desperately short of food and water, who ran across the town by chance and decided to enter in search of supplies. The clansman, who calls himself Manhattan, seems impressed by your story and invites you to join his gang, who are known as the 'Kickers'. You have little option but to accept his invitation in the hope that once you are released from the cell you will be able to escape.</p>
- <p>'Good!' snarls Manhattan. He informs his men of your decision and orders them to make preparations for the Rite'. When you ask what 'the Rite' is, he narrows his eyes and sniggers. 'You must earn the right to become a Kicker,' he explains, grimly. 'You must prove to us that you are worthy.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The biker beats you to the draw. His shot hits you in the left shoulder, passing clean through and knocking you flat on your back with the force of its impact: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You struggle to reach your shotgun and return fire, but before you can squeeze the trigger, a shot from the slope fells your assailant. The others rush quickly to your aid and tend to your wound with supplies brought from the bus. Your shoulder aches viciously, but no bones are broken and, as soon as you are bandaged, you go to help the others search the bodies of the three dead bikers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your return is met with great relief and joy that Maria is safe. Juan and Rosita<ch.emdash/>Maria's parents<ch.emdash/>cannot thank you enough for finding their child, and the others, especially your uncle and aunt, heap you with praise. After the excitement has abated you venture out into the storm once more, this time with Cutter, to retrieve food and other vital supplies from the bus.</p>
- <p>'This is one heck of a blue norther,' he says, as you climb aboard the bus. 'Reckon it could hold us here for a day or two before it blows itself out.'</p>
- <p>'I sure hope you're wrong,' you reply, as you prise open the floor hatch that gives access to the luggage hold from inside the bus. 'Take a look at this.' A fetid smell rises from the compartment, the smell of rotten food.</p>
- <p>'Dadburn it! That's all we need right now!' exclaims Cutter, as he examines the swollen food parcels at arm's length. 'The heat's put paid to these rations. Now we're really in for a hard time.'</p>
- <p>The colony react to the news of the spoiled food with silent disbelief. What little that can be saved is carefully shared out, but it amounts to barely a day's ration per person. 'If we don't find some food to replace what we've lost,' says Aunt Betty-Ann, as she distributes the last of the stone-hard bread, 'it'll be a convoy of skeletons that drives into Big Spring.'</p>
- <p>'Well, at least we've got enough water,' replies Pop Ewell. 'We can live for three weeks without food, but we'd all be dead in three days without water.'</p>
- <p>Some people save their ration but you decide to eat yours before finally settling down to sleep (if you currently have food in your Backpack you must now erase it; all food, including personal supply, was pooled before distribution).</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you creep around to the back of the diner and peer through the cracked window of the rear door. Two men are kneeling on either side of the open front doorway, their eyes fixed on your car. Carefully you test the handle of the door: it is unlocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you possess a missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to control your car but you are powerless to prevent it from crashing through the parapet of the bridge. The shock of the impact, when it hits the surface of the lake thirty feet below, renders you unconscious. Slowly the toxic waters of Lake Worth fill your lungs and, painlessly, you drown.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are ten yards from your car when you hear a sound that makes you freeze in your tracks: it is the distinctive warning of a diamondback rattlesnake.</p>
- <p>The snake is close to your left foot, its wide-headed body perfectly camouflaged by the surrounding rocks. Slowly it uncoils itself and bares its venomous fangs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you have a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to draw a close combat weapon to meet an attack by the snake, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you decide to back away from the snake as slowly as you can, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All six bullets catch your enemy as he turns, hitting him in the side and lifting him into the air with the force of their deadly impact. He disappears from sight, and you hear him crash down upon the broken glass that carpets the floor of the drugstore.</p>
- <p>Remember to erase six 9mm rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">To continue, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is nearly dusk when the clansmen and their chief reappear. Slowly the shiny Thunderbird drives towards you, positioned at the head of a torchlit procession of men and women dressed in strange, ceremonial robes. Chief Drawoher brings the line to a halt before the totem and calls for silence. Then he extols the virtues of Heng, the Thunder Spirit, and asks that he grant their request for rain. The clansmen form a wide circle around you and, as their leader steps forwards, they chant loudly and hypnotically.</p>
- <p>With a glint of madness in his eyes, the chief unsheathes the sacrificial dagger, a blade carved from the bone of a buffalo, and holds it above his head. 'You die so that the land may live!' he screams, his voice barely audible above the drone of his followers. In desperation, you remove your free hand from behind your back and attempt to grab his wrist as he brings the dagger down towards your heart.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Field Craft and Stealth skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If your total score is now 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If it is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Painfully you drag yourself to your feet. You wait until the footfalls of the patrol have passed out of earshot and then venture out into the park once more. You manage to avoid another patrol before escaping from the amusement park and meeting up with Cutter at the truck depot. You are both relieved to discover that the place is empty and unguarded, and quickly you make your way to the stores building. You find the records office, but without electricity you cannot access the computer files to pinpoint the exact location of the spare you need. With horror you realize that in order to find a new steering linkage you will have to search every one of the 1,600 storage bays that occupy the building.</p>
- <p>'We'll be here forever if we have to search the shelves,' you whisper.</p>
- <p>'I guess you're right,' replies Cutter, 'but I think I know a quicker way of finding what we need. Follow me.'</p>
- <p>Intrigued by Cutter's reply, you follow him out of the stores building, across a parking lot, and into another section of the depot that is marked:</p>
- <signpost>ZONE 3: MUNICIPAL VEHICLE SERVICING</signpost>
- <p>After searching four of the dozen service bays, finally he discovers what he is looking for: a school bus. 'Cal, you keep y'eyes open while I strip the linkage out o' this baby. Give me an hour an' we'll be on our way.'</p>
- <p>Nervously you stand guard at the door to the service bay while Cutter works. All is quiet until, forty minutes later, you see something moving among the vehicles on the far side of the parking lot: it is a drunken clansman. Slowly he staggers nearer, taking alternate gulps from bottles clutched in either hand. He is about to pass by when Cutter drops a spanner. The ringing noise pierces his drunken stupor and prompts him to investigate.</p>
- <p>'Trouble on its way!' you whisper to Cutter, but your warning is too late. The clansman comes lumbering through the open door, brandishing his bottles like clubs. He sees you and screams an oath as he gets ready to launch his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chickamauga</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is another burst of fire, and the bullets whistle over your head as you run the last few yards to cover. Kate is in front of you. She dives, and you see her land safely behind the rocks just moments before you make your leap. The jagged stones skin your hands and knees, but your fear blocks out the pain, making you concentrate on finding a way out of the ambush.</p>
- <p>Carefully, you raise your head and peer through the foliage. One of the clansmen is beginning to move around the edge of the hollow, while his partner kneels and waits to give covering fire. Your fear turns to indignation when you realize that he is going after your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you possess a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect58-1-foot" idref="sect58-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the rumbling sound of your gunfire rolls out across the lake bed, the figure throws his hands to his face, staggers drunkenly and then falls heavily to the ground.<a id="sect58-1" idref="sect58-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His body remains still, convincing you that your shooting has proved deadly accurate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to search the body, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you decide to press on with the crossing, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip the extinguisher out of your pack and point its hose at the base of the fire. The trigger releases a stream of foam that quickly smothers the oily flames and brings the fire to an abrupt end.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait until Cutter reaches the safety of the alley before you set off towards the amusement park. Silently, like a cat, you pad across the open ground, before gaining entry to the park itself by wriggling under its rusty chain-link fence. The deserted rides look strange and scary in the moonlight. The shapes play tricks on your imagination, and when a patrol of Skull clansmen suddenly appears at the entrance to the park, you panic and dive for cover through the nearest doorway.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Current Stealth and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If your total score is now 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is dusk before you are able to escape from Albany under cover of the failing light. With relief you discover that your roadster is still parked at the farm where you left it, and quickly you climb in and accelerate away.</p>
- <p>When you reach Moran you find that the convoy is awaiting your return with trepidation. Because you are so long overdue, they feared that you had fallen foul of Mad Dog Michigan and his bikers. You tell them what happened to you in Albany, and everyone agrees that, with darkness less than an hour away, it is too dangerous to continue.</p>
- <p>The night in Moran passes uneventfully and at first light the convoy sets off cross-country towards Abilene. The arid, stony bed of Hubbard Creek leads the convoy southwest, back towards Freeway 20. Shortly after midday you reach the freeway from which you can see the outskirts of Abilene less than five miles distant.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect62-1-foot" idref="sect62-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over an ounce of lead shot hits the clansman in the chest, bringing him crashing to the ground.<a id="sect62-1" idref="sect62-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As he disappears from sight, his partner unleashes a long burst of automatic fire that powders the scree above and behind you. When the firing stops, you raise your head and peer through the bushes, expecting to see your enemy reloading. Instead he discards his empty magazine and turns to run away. He has exhausted his ammunition and has decided to make his escape before you have a chance to return fire.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are sure that the coast is clear, you rise cautiously and then help Kate to her feet. The sound of a motorcycle riding away into the distance reassures you that your ambusher has fled, and confidently you scramble up the slope and go to examine the body of the one who did not get away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pull yourself free from beneath Copperhead's body, the Flick Knife (2) drops from his lifeless hand. (If you decide to keep this weapon, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>.)</p>
- <p>Another burst of fire echoes from across the street, and once more Long Jake urges you to take cover in the store. With your pulse racing, you jump to your feet and sprint, head down, towards the darkened doorway.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If the total is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect64-1-foot" idref="sect64-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch (if any).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dogs rush towards you, undaunted by your valiant attempts to stop them.<a id="sect64-1" idref="sect64-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As one pounces at your chest, you grab a close combat weapon and prepare to defend yourself as best you can.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rabid Dog</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you win, and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If the fight lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bullet clips the flesh above your left elbow and spins you to the ground: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You clutch your injured arm to feel warm blood oozing through your fingers as you crawl along the ground towards your car. A second shot passes over your head and you notice the muzzle flash of the sniper's gun; he is hiding in the doorway of a diner on the other side of the highway. Two motorcycles are parked at the side of the building indicating that he is not alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only items you find of practical value are a <typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ> and a first aid box. The box contains dressings and antiseptics sufficient for two Medi-kit units.</p>
- <p>If you choose to keep either of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The voice seems to be drifting from the east, so you change direction and head towards it. After a few minutes there is a lull in the storm and, as the dust settles, you are able to see the ruins of a candy store standing close to the school's perimeter fence. Once more you call out her name and a voice replies, faintly, 'Help me <ch.ellips/> I'm in here.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If your current Perception skill total is 4 or less <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You relay the message to the others and they begin to laugh. 'I think the heat's finally got to you, Cal!' jokes Hammer Harlan. 'Here, let me listen to those 'phones. Ain't nothin' wrong with my hearin'.' You pass him the headphones, but before he has had a chance to put them on, the insect-like sound of a small engine draws all eyes to the west.</p>
- <p>'Well, I'll be<ch.ellips/> !' mutters Hammer, scarcely able to believe his eyes. High in the azure sky you see a tin flying machine with fragile, bat-shaped wings. Spellbound, the colony watches as the plane circles above the town and comes in to land on the stretch of freeway that approaches the bridge. Slowly the pilot extricates himself from the tiny, motorized hang glider, and gives a friendly wave as he strides towards the group.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>'The name's Rickenbacker,' he says, removing his goggles and shaking Uncle Jonas by the hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="588" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="588" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'The name's Rickenbacker,' he says, removing his goggles and shaking Uncle Jonas by the hand. 'I'm from Big Spring. I saw y'all while I was scoutin' the freeway and thought I'd drop by. Shame about the radio: 'fraid my set's seen better days.'</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker warns the colony that a large group of clansmen is riding towards the town from the east. They are less than five miles distant and closing fast. He also tells you about another gang of bikers, a clan called the 'Mavericks', who have been the bane of the Big Spring colony for the last six months. They control the city of Lubbock, 100 miles to the north, and their raiding parties are in the area foraging for food. 'I know the next thirty miles ain't gonna be easy for you folks, but there's a big welcome waitin' for y'all at Big Spring,' he says, as he gets ready to take to the air once more. 'Don't delay now. We're countin' on you to make it through.'</p>
- <p>As soon as he is airborne, the colony sets to work on the bridge with renewed vigour. The Lions are closer than anyone dared imagine and everyone is eager to get across the river before they show up. When Cutter announces that the bridge is safe, you drive the roadster across the platform and park it on the freeway ready for a fast getaway. The colony crosses over on foot, and Cutter drives the empty bus across the bridge. The platform creaks and shudders, but Cutter is able to cross safely to the far side. Together with Kate, the three of you return to help guide Uncle Jonas and the tanker across.</p>
- <p>Just as the front wheels are about to mount the platform, Kate screams a warning: The Lions are here!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you possess a missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or have exhausted your supply of ammunition, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A rush of adrenalin sharpens your senses, making you super-aware of the deadly situation. You react with lightning speed, steering your car out of the path of the oncoming wreck yet avoiding the myriad other obstacles that litter the bridge and threaten to send you to your doom. With consummate ease you overcome these dangers and resume your position in line behind the tanker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step over the dead body of your enemy and rush along the centre aisle to help defeat the other three Mavericks who are aboard. Your arrival inspires the colony, and swiftly they help you to overcome these brutal bikers.</p>
- <p>You are helping to carry their bodies towards the door of the bus when you notice an orange light flickering outside the rear window. You decide to take a closer look and, when you peer through the glass, you are horrified to see that one of the Mavericks is holding a Molotov cocktail<ch.emdash/>a bottle filled with an inflammable mixture of oil and gasolene<ch.emdash/>fused with a gasolene-soaked rag. The rag is burning and, as he brings his motorcycle alongside the bus, he gets ready to hurl the bottle through the window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you possess a missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the men places his weapon on the floor in order to take something from his pack, and you launch your attack. You fell the unarmed man with a crushing blow to his neck, then you turn to face his partner. Unfortunately, he is armed and his gun is pointing at your chest.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If your total score is now 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If your total score is now 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick the safety catch off and rest your shotgun across the rollbar of your roadster in order to steady your aim. At 200 yards, the figure appears little more than 1/16 inch high and, as you squeeze the trigger, you pray that your buckshot load will have enough power to reach that far.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total. Now decide how many rounds you wish to fire (minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds). For every round you fire, add one point to your current score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If your total score is now 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 16 or more, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'You'll be needing one of these,' says Pop Ewell, handing you a CB transceiver. 'It'll do no good if you find Maria but can't find your way back here.' You take the handset (mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>; if you already possess the maximum number of Backpack Items, you must discard one in favour of this item), thank him, and then join the others to decide on a search plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off for Mineral Wells, you consult with Cutter and Uncle Jonas and devise a plan of action. It is decided that after you have investigated the source of the radio transmission, you will drive south on the remains of Highway 281 and rendezvous with the others at Santo, the next town west along the freeway, where the convoy intends to make camp for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you emerge from the water, you notice that your boots are covered with mud and you stop to scrape them clean. Unfortunately, you are standing directly in front of a nest of scorpions, and it is not until you are stooping to pick up a stick that you spot the danger. Swiftly you withdrew your hand just in time to save yourself from their deadly sting.</p>
- <p>Shaken by this close encounter, you must now take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you climb back into your roadster and return to the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swerve to the left and then to the right to deter the rider from making a leap for it, but he is a brave and determined adversary. He makes his jump and lands with a crash on the trunk of your car, his outstretched hands grabbing at the rollbar to prevent himself from falling to his death. You try to dislodge him by braking heavily then accelerating away again, but still he remains glued to your car like a barnacle to a ship's hull. The other bikers yell encouragement as he pulls himself slowly towards the driving compartment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you do not possess this missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect77-1-foot" idref="sect77-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At this range your bullet hits the clansman with devastating accuracy, passing through his heart and killing him instantly.<a id="sect77-1" idref="sect77-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He throws his hands in the air and falls forward. As he disappears from sight, his partner unleashes a long burst of fire that powders the scree behind you. When the firing stops, you raise your head and peer through the bushes, expecting to see your enemy reloading. Instead he discards his empty magazine and turns to run away. He has exhausted his ammunition and has decided to make his escape before you have a chance to return fire.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are sure that the coast is clear, you rise cautiously and help Kate to her feet. The sound of a motor cycle riding away into the distance reassures you that your ambusher has fled, and confidently you scramble up the slope and go to examine the body of the one who did not get away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a superhuman effort, you leap and dive across the hood of your roadster in an attempt to avoid being caught by the burst of automatic fire. Bullets follow you across the car, piercing the side and glancing noisily off the case-hardened rollbar. One of the hollow-tipped slugs creases your thigh, making you cry out loudly with the sudden pain: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your scream convinces the biker that he has killed you, and he turns his attention elsewhere. You drag yourself into your car and start the engine without being seen, and swiftly you accelerate away, steering your roadster towards the tail-lights of the bus as it crashes through a group of bikers and escapes onto the freeway. A few random shots ricochet off the trunk as you follow the bus out of Santo, but within minutes you pass out of range and the gunfire ceases.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A searing wave of heat scorches your hands and face, forcing you to retreat from the flames. The sleeves of your jacket ignite and you suffer painful first and second degree burns before you can extinguish the fire: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you are still alive after sustaining this injury, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of the top when suddenly you lose your footing and plummet once more into the gully. This time the fall proves fatal; you crash head first into the rocky base and shatter your skull. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is locked, but one swift kick is all that is needed to shatter its corroded bolt and gain entry to the warehouse. For a few seconds, as your eyes adapt to the darkness, you are blind: you have no idea of the layout of the building, and you fail to see the scar-faced clansman advancing towards you with a sharpened meat hook in his hand. Only the sound of glass breaking beneath his feet alerts you to his presence and saves you from his first, vicious swipe. Quickly you recover and reach for a close combat weapon as he makes his second attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Trans-am</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <choice idref="sect314">If you win and the combat lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'OK, it's worth a look,' agrees Uncle Jonas, when you tell him you want to search the university campus before the convoy takes the freeway south. 'See if you can rustle up some polythene sheeting. We're mighty short an' we'll be needin' some real bad as soon as we hit the desert. We'll wait right here for you an' keep an eye on the road. Any trouble then jus' give a holler.'</p>
- <p>With your uncle's request in mind, you drive towards the centre of the campus in search of what was once the chemistry faculty. Most of the buildings are just burnt-out, rubble-filled shells, their contents either buried beyond reach or looted months ago by roving city gangs. A shattered sign indicates the entrance to the building you seek, and your hopes rise when you notice that it is the least damaged structure on the campus.</p>
- <p>Inside, the sound of your footsteps echoes along the dusty corridors as you make your way down to the basement storage levels. To your disappointment you discover little remaining there of practical value.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you wish to continue your search, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you decide to call off your search and return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to the ground, roll over and then spring to your feet just in time to see the clansman casting aside his empty pistol in frustration. He shouts for help, calling to his partner to cut you down, but you are now too close for the other clansman to risk a burst of fire. With a yelp of surprise, the clansman reaches for a knife as you make your attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Electra-glide</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of your attack, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a deep breath and launch yourself at the exit. However, the stripy-faced youth, whom you encountered earlier wielding a lasso, appears at the doorway, blocking your escape. He reaches for his revolver, which is tucked into his belt, but before he can point and fire, you lash out with your foot and send it spinning from his hand. He screams with pain and anger as he lunges at your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mosquito</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you a few minutes to clear the rubble away from the engine compartment, but your efforts are not in vain. Some of the engine components are still serviceable and could prove useful as spares for the colony's bus.</p>
- <p>Below are listed the items worth salvaging from the wreck. You may take two from the list, all of which are Backpack Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Distributor Cap</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Condenser</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Gas Modifier</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Oil Plug</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Fan Belt</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Spark Plugs</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Regulator</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these spares, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">To return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the window of a room on the second floor you watch as the mob floods out of the alley and into the street below. They divide into two groups and begin searching the adjoining streets, seemingly convinced that you are still out in the open. Silently you crouch by the window, awaiting the chance to slip out of Cross Plains unseen. While you are lying low, you must take a drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. It is dusk before you are able to escape from the town. With relief you discover that your roadster is still parked at the gas station, and quickly you climb in and accelerate away.</p>
- <p>When you reach Rising Star you find that the convoy is awaiting your return with trepidation. Because you are so long overdue, they feared that you had fallen foul of Mad Dog Michigan and his bikers. You tell them what happened to you in Cross Plains and everyone agrees that, with darkness almost upon you, it is too dangerous to continue.</p>
- <p>The night at Rising Star passes uneventfully and at first light the convoy sets off cross-country towards Abilene. The arid, stony bed of Pecan Bayou provides excellent cover from the surrounding high ground and leads the convoy northwest, back towards Freeway 20. Shortly after midday you reach the freeway, from which you can see the outskirts of Abilene less than five miles distant.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding your breath to steady your nerves, you stare along the barrel of your shotgun and focus your aim on the driver's crash helmet.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If your total score is now 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With practised ease you cup your pistol in both hands, thumb back the safety catch, and take aim at the shadow that fills half the window frame. The machine gunner is levelling his reloaded weapon to fire again when you squeeze off your first shot.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If the total is now 0-7, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The glare of a dozen motorcycle headlights follow in the wake of the convoy. The Mavericks who survived your brief but devastating visit to Coahoma are now in pursuit, and they are closing the gap swiftly. Shots are fired from the back of the bus, bringing down two of the leading bikes, but they do not prevent the others from moving alongside. Anxiously you watch in your rear-view mirror as the pillion riders risk their lives to jump aboard. The few who survive the leap without falling under the wheels gain entry by kicking their way through the windows.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>The pillion riders risk their lives to jump aboard the bus.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="587" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="587" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly the bus loses speed. You sense that something is seriously amiss and you go back to find out what is wrong. You wave the tanker on, then slow almost to a standstill in order to allow Cutter to catch up. As he draws nearer you see that a running battle is taking place on board. You accelerate, bringing your roadster alongside the boarding door, then you tell Kate to move over into the driving seat and take the wheel. As soon as she has control of the car, you coil yourself like a spring and leap towards the door of the bus.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Stealth skill level, and make a note of the total in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Now, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If the total is 22 or less, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If the total is 23 or more, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the two figures shamble to the edge of the highway and stare at you with vacant eyes. Your spirited dispatch of their dogs has not worried them in the slightest, neither do they appear unduly concerned for their own safety. You stand your ground, challenging them to attack if they dare. They laugh. It is a pitiful, thin sound, which makes your flesh crawl. You return their empty stares, noting with disgust the ulcer-like sores that cover their pale, greyish skins, their almost complete lack of hair and their teeth, black with decay. Your disgust turns to pity, however, when suddenly you realize why they show no fear: they are both afflicted with terminal radiation sickness. Death is already their companion.</p>
- <p>'Where are you from?' you call, anxious to discover if there is a hot spot<ch.emdash/>a zone of radioactivity<ch.emdash/>nearby.</p>
- <p>'Cisco,' comes the reply.</p>
- <p>You take some dressings from your Medi-kit and place them on the ground in front of you (erase one Medi- kit unit from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), then you turn and walk back to your roadster. The dressings may be of little comfort to these two Rad-vics (the name your colony gives to victims of high-dosage radioactivity), but they may know others who will benefit from them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You break free and stagger out of the smoke, coughing and retching: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. With streaming eyes, you consider the two routes that offer a chance of escape. You can either run east along the main street and back towards your car, retracing the route by which you entered Cross Plains; or you can run in the opposite direction and attempt to hide in the maze of alleys that once serviced the town stores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to run east, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you decide to run west, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab a blanket and rush forward to fight the blaze. Several of the colony follow your example and, although you suffer from burns and toxic smoke, you manage eventually to quash the flames.</p>
- <p>To find out the extent of the injuries you suffered whilst fighting the fire, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If the number you have picked is 0-3, lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If it is 4-6, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If it is 7-9, lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">To continue, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The colony is divided in opinion. Roughly half urges an investigation of the signal; the other half believes, like you, that it would be foolish to risk walking into an ambush on the dubious merits of such a patchy broadcast.</p>
- <p>A vote decides the course of action in your favour, and the convoy prepares for the next stage of its journey to Santo. You lead the way along Freeway 20 and, as you pass by the outskirts of a town called Brock, the sun dips reluctantly below the horizon. A full moon brightens the twilight and the temperature drops rapidly until you find yourself shivering in the cold night wind.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>It takes forty minutes to reach Santo, and another twenty to find a site on which to set up camp overnight. Uncle Jonas orders that the vehicles be drawn into a circle, like a ring of wagons in the wild west, to offer the best protection against the threat of a night raid. Lots are drawn to see who will stand the first watch; unfortunately, you pick the shortest straw.</p>
- <p>It is an hour after midnight when you see a cluster of lights in the middle distance. They are less than a mile away to the east, and approaching at speed. With only a few minutes at most before the bikers reach the camp, you sound the alarm.</p>
- <p>Like a pack of screaming demons the marauding bikers descend on the convoy, shooting wildly as they weave in and out of the circle. One of the bikers guns his machine towards you, forcing you to dive aside to avoid being ridden down. You are staggering to your feet when another attacks you from behind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If your total is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lake occupies the centre of a saucer-like depression and, as you bring your roadster to a halt at the edge of this rocky rim and stare down at the shimmering water below, you are heartened to see that clumps of vegetation are growing close by: a sure sign that the water is not contaminated.</p>
- <p>The sides of the depression are steep and covered with loose shale. Rather than risk a fall, you suggest to Kate that perhaps you should go down to the lake alone. When you reach it, she could throw the containers to you, and then help you with them when you climb back out. The idea does not impress her. 'It's been so long, I can't remember the last time I took a dip in some real water. I'm sick a' washin' in sand. If you think I'm gonna hang around up here while you splash about down there, you've got another think comin', buster!'</p>
- <p>With that she grabs two of the plastic containers and lowers herself over the edge. Seconds later you hear her scream and you rush forward to see her tumbling head-over-heels towards the lake. She hits the water with a loud splash and disappears from view. Briefly she surfaces, thrashing her arms and shouting: 'Help, Cal! I can't swim!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess a <typ class="item">Rope</typ>, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tyres shriek in protest as you slam on the brakes and wrench the steering wheel hard over to the right simultaneously. The suspension shudders under the strain as the car veers away violently from the ambulance, missing the twisted shell by a few inches. Your driving skill and quick reactions have saved you from certain death.</p>
- <p>Quickly you recover control of your roadster and accelerate towards the distant ridge. The bikers soon lose interest in the chase and peel away to return to the town, pausing only to curse and fire a few ill-aimed shots at your back as you make your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198"><link-text>Turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect96-1-foot" idref="sect96-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire fails to bring down the clansman, but it passes close enough to make him veer away from the edge of the slope.<a id="sect96-1" idref="sect96-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Cursing your luck, you shoulder your weapon and turn to Kate.</p>
- <p>'I've got to stop him before he reaches the roadster,' you say. Kate protests, but you are determined to save your car, and reluctantly she agrees to cover you as best she can with a tiny Derringer pistol that she carries in her boot.</p>
- <p>'I call it 'Chihuahua',' she quips, as she cocks the double-hammers and gets ready to fire. 'It don't look much but it makes one helluva noise!'</p>
- <p>You scan the slope. When you have picked out the best place to make your climb, you break cover and zigzag along the shore towards it. Immediately, the machine gunner opens up on you. Kate replies with a single shot, and he diverts his fire back to the rocks and bushes. Swiftly you claw your way to the top of the slope and run straight at the clansman, grimly determined to intercept him before he can do any damage. He sees you approaching, draws a pistol, and empties it at your chest.</p>
- <p>Add your Stealth skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If your total is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gingerly, you examine the wounds sustained during your fight. Most were caused when you hit the hard surface of the road, but several of the cuts and scratches that criss-cross your arms were made by the teeth and claws of the dog. Fear knots your stomach as you realize that you must have been infected with the rabies virus.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect98-1-foot" idref="sect98-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the keypad puzzle in <a idref="sect255">Section 255</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you tap the correct number on the keypad,<a id="sect98-1" idref="sect98-1-foot" class="footnote" /> there is loud <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia> and the steel door creaks inwards to reveal the shelved walls of a strongroom beyond. You smile with satisfaction at having cracked the university's door code: the number of the last column of each row is the sum of the number of the first two columns, minus the number in the third column.</p>
- <p>Intrigued by what lies within, you enter the strongroom and peer along the dusty shelves. The vault contains the documentation of experiments and quantities of what were once considered precious metals<ch.emdash/>gold, platinum, silver and titanium. After a thorough search, you find three items that may be put to practical use:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Geiger Counter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Altimeter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Radiation Suit</typ> (occupies two item spaces in the Backpack)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">To leave the strongroom and return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The convoy is too far away to see that you need help, and you dare not stand up and signal to them for fear of being hit. Two more bullets smack the side of your car and then you hear the sound of a rifle bolt being worked frantically back and forth: the sniper's gun has jammed. While he is trying to clear it, you dash across the highway and take cover behind the two motor cycles. You stop there just long enough to sabotage their engines, then you advance along the side of the diner towards an open window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you possess an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Much of Abilene lies in the shadow of a bank of cloud, which has darkened the land since mid-morning. At first the unexpected arrival of this cloud cover cheered the colony, for it brought with it a welcome respite from the burning heat and promised a possible end to the drought. Unfortunately, these initial hopes were soon shattered.</p>
- <p>As you approach the city a fierce wind arises. It sweeps down from the north and lashes the convoy, not with rain, but with blinding clouds of grit and sand. Within the space of half an hour the colony is engulfed in a ferocious duststorm that threatens to bury you all without trace. At the first opportunity you signal to the others to pull off the elevated freeway and seek shelter from the storm. The danger of grit finding its way into the engines of the convoy vehicles, causing them irreparable damage, is uppermost in your mind, and anxiously you search for shelter.</p>
- <p>A signpost looms out of the swirling dust, pointing to what was once a high school. You signal to Cutter to follow you into the school yard, but the storm is reaching its peak and you are forced to halt before you can see the school itself. Quickly the colony disembarks and blindly you lead them in single file, heads bowed against the stinging wind, until you reach the school building. Fortunately, it still has a roof and four walls, and offers adequate protection from the storm. Once inside, Aunt Betty-Ann decides to take a roll call to make sure everyone is present. She is about to begin when Rosita Rodriguez cries out in anguish, 'Maria! Where is my Maria? She is not here!'</p>
- <p>A check of the school reveals that Rosita's little six-year-old girl is missing. She was with the family when they left the bus and must still be close by, but with the storm now at its peak, everyone knows that her chances of survival outside are slim. Uncle Jonas calls for three volunteers to search for Maria, and immediately you step forward, as do Cutter and Kate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the rollbar of your roadster to steady your hand, you level your pistol and take aim at the distant figure. At 200 yards, your target appears little more than 1/16 inch high. It will take a great deal of skill and considerable luck to hit such a small target, using a pistol.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total. Now decide how many rounds you will fire at the target (minimum: one round; maximum: six rounds). For every round you fire add one point to your current score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rest the magazine of your G-12 on the side of the auto wreck and, as the enemy vehicle speeds nearer, you pull back the firing bolt and focus your aim at the driver's head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If your total score is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutter pats you on the shoulder: it is the signal to move. Silently, like a snake, you crawl across the open ground on your stomach, inching your way nearer to the entrance of the alley, which is sandwiched between two mounds of stinking garbage. A clansman appears from the shadows and you freeze in your tracks. With bated breath you watch as he dumps a sack of rubbish onto one of the mounds before turning around and disappearing into the dark.</p>
- <p>By the time you reach the alley it is deserted. Cautiously you advance along it, your knife held ready just in case you are forced to silence one of the town's inhabitants. The alley ends near the centre of the mall, where the remains of a huge marble fountain lie scattered across the tiled floor. The shop-lined avenues appear empty, so you enter the mall and make your way towards the truck depot. You have just turned a corner when you see a patrol of four Skull clansmen.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>A patrol of four clansmen appears.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="588" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="588" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Instantly you dive through the doorway of a store to your right and crouch in the shadows. The patrol swaggers past the store without noticing you, and soon their footfalls have passed out of earshot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to search the store, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you decide to leave the store and continue, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the wheel hard over to the left in the desperate hope that your move will spoil the sniper's aim. A moment later you hear the metallic whine of his bullet as it ricochets off the edge of your windshield. Tiny fragments of the high-velocity bullet pepper your neck and shoulder (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the sudden pain does not cause you to lose control of your vehicle. You recover quickly and signal to the others to accelerate. By the time the unknown sniper has reloaded his rifle, you and the convoy are speeding away from the bridge, obscured by a cloud of dust.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bury the bodies of the three dead bikers<ch.emdash/>along with their motorcycles<ch.emdash/>in the gully, and then take stock of your surroundings. Traces of a paved road that disappears towards the west are found, and Cutter Jacks, who lived only a few miles from Lake Lewisville before 'The Day', identifies it as the remains of State Highway 407.</p>
- <p>'This'll get us back on course,' he says, confidently. 'Follow this baby and we'll make Freeway 35 in under an hour.'</p>
- <p>Twenty minutes later, you can make out Freeway 35 in the distance, its long, concrete body bleached and quaking beneath the fiery sun. The road you are following passes beneath it but, as you draw closer, you notice a ramp coiling away to your right giving access to the freeway.</p>
- <p>A few hundred yards beyond the ramp you see another. It leads to the ruins of a once prestigious group of buildings<ch.emdash/>the North Texas State University.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to search the university, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you decide to lead the convoy onto Freeway 35, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you search your Medi-kit for an ampoule of snake bite serum, but to your horror you discover that it is the one medicament that you do not possess. The pain in your leg begins to fade, to be replaced by a numbness that spreads rapidly throughout your lower body. Soon you are paralysed from the chest down and unable to drag yourself out of the blazing sun. In less than an hour you fall victim to heatstroke and lapse into an unconsciousness from which you never awaken.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Lake Thomas.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you reach for your gun as the first of the pack reach the highway and come bounding towards you. You have encountered rabid dogs before and know only too well that just one scratch from an infected beast will seal your doom. You must shoot fast and accurately if you are to survive this encounter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you are using a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you are using a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you are using a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you are using a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout at your people to get away from the window as hurriedly you raise your pistol, take aim at the rider's chest and squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You vault over the trunk and land feet-first in the driving seat, your hand poised to switch on the ignition. The engine growls, but before you can shift gear and speed away, there is another burst of gunfire. It shatters the windshield and forces you to throw yourself across the passenger seat to avoid being caught in a deadly crossfire. Then a savage voice screams a command and the firing ceases. You chance a glance over the dashboard and see, to your astonishment, a leather-clad punk come running towards you from out of the ruins. Long Jake takes aim. He fires, missing by a hand's breadth. Undeterred, the grim-faced renegade leaps into the car beside you, cackling like a maniac as he lunges for your throat with his flick knife.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Copperhead</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of the attack, you must fight the first round of combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One by one the clansmen appear in the street, emerging from stores and other buildings. They advance towards you, brandishing knives and axes, and you are forced to run for your life.</p>
- <p>As you run past the entrance to a bar, a large group appears on the sidewalk less than twenty yards ahead. Shots ring out, forcing you to dive for cover inside the bar. Fortunately the place is deserted, but the angry screams of the mob grow louder as they near the bar. Quickly your eyes scan the gloomy interior, searching for a way out or for a place to hide. Two possibilities present themselves: the staircase to the first floor, and the counter at the rear of the bar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to ascend the stairs to the first floor, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to hide behind the counter, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shotgun roars and spits out a deadly cloud of buckshot, catching the ambusher full in the chest. Briefly you see him thrown backwards through the air before his lifeless body crashes down upon the rubbish-strewn floor of the derelict drugstore. You eject the spent shell but keep your gun trained on the window in case he was not alone. After a minute of silence you lower your weapon and begin to breathe a little easier.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Remember to erase one 12-gauge round from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">To continue, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you unshoulder your gun, slip the safety catch, and lower the barrel towards the ground. The rattlesnake darts its head forward and attempts to bury its fangs in your ankle. Its attack is all over, though, the moment you squeeze the trigger: at such close range your gunfire rips the snake apart (remember to erase the appropriate amount of ammunition from your Ammo Pouch).</p>
- <p>You must now take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you climb back into your roadster and return to the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sidestep the dead dog as it falls limply to the ground, anxious to avoid the deadly virus that still thrives within its foaming saliva. To your relief the other dogs halt in their tracks. Turning, they run away, scattering in all directions as they leave the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If, during your close combat with the rabid dog, you lost 4 or more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you lost 3 or less <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see Kate dive safely into cover and are about to follow her when suddenly the dust erupts around your feet and you feel a sharp pain cut across the back of your right calf: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You hobble the last few yards to cover, your wound making you grit your teeth. Another burst of fire cuts through the bushes within inches of your skull. Fear blocks out the pain, making you concentrate on finding a way out of the ambush.</p>
- <p>Carefully, you raise your head and peer through the foliage. One of the clansmen is beginning to move around the edge of the hollow, while his partner kneels and waits to give covering fire. Your fear turns to indignation when you realize that he is going after your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you possess a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Making full use of the broken ground and heaps of wreckage as cover, you circle the mysterious observer and creep up on him from behind. So that you can find out why he is spying on the convoy you decide to try to overpower him. However, he hears you approaching and spins around to face you, his hand reaching for a dagger concealed in his boot.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Stake-out</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the transceiver out of your Backpack, flick the power switch on and key in the frequency that Pop Ewell monitors aboard the bus. 'Red Phoenix to DC1,' you say, using your emergency call sign. 'I'm pinned down by sniper fire. It's coming from the diner across the street. Suspect two clansmen. Request assistance.'</p>
- <p>The tiny speaker crackles into life and you hear Cutter's voice reply: 'Hang in there, Cal. I'll circle 'round the back and flush 'em out.'</p>
- <p>A minute later you see Cutter jump down from the bus and scurry across the rock-strewn ground behind the diner, cradling a shotgun, which he loads as he runs. He disappears behind the building, then a few moments later you hear a burst of gunfire and see a swarthy-faced man, dressed in western clothes, come running out of the front door with a pistol in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you possess a missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken fewer than a dozen steps when suddenly the ground disappears beneath your feet. With a yelp of horror, you scrabble at the air as you fall head first into a steep-sided gully.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals 10). The number you pick is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose as a result of your fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you are still alive, adjust your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total and <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fling yourself over the counter, landing heavily on a floor carpeted with broken glass and pools of stale liquor. Your knees and elbows bleed freely (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) from the deep cuts you sustain, and you cannot prevent a scream of agony from escaping your lips. Your cry is answered by a malicious laugh, and you hear a shotgun being cocked ready to fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your Stealth skill total is 4 or more, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If your total score is now 0-2, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If it is 3-6, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If it is 7-10, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly Cutter appears, his face lined with worry. He soon relaxes when he sees that you are alive. 'I reckon these guys were members of the Maverick gang that Rickenbacker warned us about,' he says. 'Seems that the Lions ain't the only ones we gotta look out for.'</p>
- <p>Cutter helps you search the bodies and the diner. You discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (with four rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Rifle (with four rounds of 7.62mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen containing enough water for three Drinks</li>
- <li>Serum, sulfonamides, and dressings, sufficient for three Medi-kit units.</li>
- <li>Flick Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Club (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>As soon as your flat tyre has been repaired, and the highway swept clear of spikes, you climb back into your roadster and lead the convoy on towards Big Spring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once the convoy is clear of the bridge, Cutter pulls over to the side of the highway and you stop in line behind him and the tanker. Uncle Jonas jumps down from his cab and together you run forward to check the damage to the bus. The front and sides are riddled with bullet holes, many of which have penetrated the engine and passenger compartments, yet, miraculously, no one has been killed or seriously injured. Aunt Betty-Ann appears at a window and reports that four members of the colony have been hit. She says not to worry<ch.emdash/>they have minor wounds and she is sure they will pull through.</p>
- <p>The radiator is leaking coolant but Cutter is confident that he can have it fixed within an hour. 'It's a real shame we've got so few guns aboard,' grumbles Cutter, as he sets to work sealing the perforated radiator mesh. 'It ain't no fun being the target for them punks when you don't get a chance to shoot back.'</p>
- <p>A hundred yards along the highway you see a sign that points to a road leading off to the east. It says:</p>
- <signpost>CARSWELL AIR FORCE BASE</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to investigate the base while Cutter finishes his repairs, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you decide to stay with the convoy, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly your windshield shatters and you feel something burn deep into your chest. The broken glass spins before your eyes and a terrifying numbness spreads from your chest to your limbs. Kate screams in terror, then silence engulfs you as your roadster slams into the side of a derelict gas station and explodes in a brilliant ball of orange flame.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here in Coahoma.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you near the centre of the corral, you throw yourself forward and reach out for the knife. Your fingers close around the hilt, but your enemy grabs your wrist and twists it, forcing you to drop the blade: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gasping at the sudden pain, you stagger back, allowing him to pick up the fallen knife. With an evil guttural laugh, he raises the blade above his head and comes stalking towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Meltdown</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb into your roadster and leave the air force base, arriving back at the convoy minutes later, just as Cutter completes his repairs. You have little to show for your search of Carswell but, as Uncle Jonas is fond of saying, every little helps.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295"><link-text>Turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your pistol with both hands, draw a breath through clenched teeth, then take careful aim at the enemy sniper perched on the building opposite.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If your total score is now 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If your total score is now 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a cotton bandana tied around your nose and mouth, and the collar of your leather jacket pulled close to your face, you set off into the storm. With visibility less than five yards, you must rely on your sense of hearing for some indication of the child's position. Repeatedly you call her name, hoping she will reply, yet all you hear is the incessant howling of the wind.</p>
- <p>You reach the edge of the school grounds and find a hole in the perimeter fence. A few feet beyond it stands the side wall of a derelict candy store. Once more you call out her name and a faint voice replies: 'Help me<ch.ellips/> I'm in here.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If your current Perception skill total is 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your pulse racing you jump to your feet and spring, head down, towards the darkened doorway.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If the total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull over in order to check the battle damage and allow the rest of the convoy to catch up with you. Fortunately the vital rear sections of your roadster<ch.emdash/>the fuel tank, axle and tyres<ch.emdash/>are still intact. Most of the damage has been absorbed by the trunk and the fender, but the incident makes you sorely aware of the need for better protection, and you make a mental note to ask Cutter to help you reinforce the bodywork at the first opportunity.</p>
- <p>A few minutes later the convoy arrives. Having passed the burning remains of your adversaries the others are relieved to find you still in one piece. You inform them that the bikers were Detroit Lions, probably scouts, and that you suspect that the clan is no more than thirty miles away. 'Well, at least those two you ran into won't be reporting our position to Mad Dog, or anyone else for that matter,' says Cutter, wryly.</p>
- <p>'Even so,' says Uncle Jonas, 'we daren't afford t' stop too long in any one place. We gotta keep ahead o' that pack all the way to Big Spring.'</p>
- <p>The next town on the freeway is Sweetwater. Most of the buildings are still standing, although few have roofs as a result of yesterday's storm. Except for a few hungry coyote that have come down from the hills looking for jack rabbits, the place is deserted.</p>
- <p>Cutter signals for you to stop. The engine of the bus is overheating and, despite the risk of a clan attack, it must be allowed to cool down. The others take the opportunity to search the town for food, and you busy yourself by refuelling your roadster. 'What do you make of that, Cal?' says Uncle Jonas, as you finish rewinding the tanker's fuel pipe. He is standing on the cab of the tanker, pointing at a shimmering ribbon of light to the south of the town. You climb up beside him and immediately you see that it is the sun reflecting off the surface of a small lake. 'Water!' you both exclaim, excitedly.</p>
- <p>The chance of replenishing the colony's depleted water supply is too good an opportunity to miss. Uncle Jonas helps you load some empty plastic containers onto your roadster, and Kate volunteers to come with you to help fill and carry them. As soon as she is aboard, you start the engine and drive off towards the distant lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A pack of five dogs suddenly appears at the side of the road, their stealthy approach concealed by the mound of loose earth excavated from the highway trench. At first glance they look like alsatians, but you soon see that these dogs are much larger and fiercer. They fix you hungrily with their feral eyes, their mouths slavering and foaming as they stalk forward. Then two figures come into view behind them, gaunt and pale despite the desert sun. With a rasping scream, they command the dogs to attack and immediately the pack obeys.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few yards of the bus when something heavy hits you squarely in the back, slamming you to the ground. Gasping for breath, you fight to free yourself from the steely clutches of a biker who has pounced on you. Desperately you struggle as he tightens his claw-like hands around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kroon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of the attack, you are unable to draw a close combat weapon until the start of the second round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the men places his weapon on the floor in order to take something from his pack and you launch your attack. You burst through the door and fire your gun at the armed man, killing him instantly. You turn to face his partner, but his reflexes are far quicker than you expected. He hurls a wooden club at your head and you are forced to use your gun to bat it aside. Before you recover your aim, he leaps at you and wrestles you to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Belushi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the ferocity of his attack, you are unable to draw a close combat weapon until the start of the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the bolt of your G-12, priming it to fire, then rest its stubby barrel on the rollbar of your roadster to steady your aim. At 200 yards your target appears little more than 1/16 inch high. It will demand great skill and considerable luck to hit such a small target with a machine pistol.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill level. Now decide how many bursts of fire you intend to launch at the target (minimum: one burst; maximum: five bursts ). For every burst, add one point to your current score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 12, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect132-1-foot" idref="sect132-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your gun, take aim and kill the Maverick machine gunner with a shot to the head.<a id="sect132-1" idref="sect132-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As he falls, you turn your weapon on the remaining biker, but he is using Kate as a shield and you dare not fire for fear of hitting her. With anger and fear welling up inside you, you reluctantly lower your gun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the food out of your Backpack and hurl it down into the trench. As soon as the dogs scent the aroma of the food, they switch their attention to the hollow and leap in feet-first. Then the two men appear. They shamble to the edge of the trench and stare at you with vacant eyes. The skilful way in which you distracted their dogs does not seem to have antagonized them in the slightest, nor do they appear unduly concerned for their own safety. You stand your ground, challenging them to attack if they dare. They laugh. It is a pitiful, thin sound that makes your flesh crawl. You return their empty stares, noting with disgust the ulcer-like sores that cover their pale, greyish skins; their almost complete lack of hair; and their teeth, black with decay. Your disgust turns to pity, however, when suddenly you realize why they show no fear: they are both afflicted with terminal radiation sickness. Death is already their companion.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>They are both afflicted with terminal radiation sickness. Death is already their companion.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="698" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="698" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'Where are you from?' you call, anxious to discover if there is a hot spot<ch.emdash/>a zone of radioactivity<ch.emdash/>nearby.</p>
- <p>'Cisco,' comes the reply.</p>
- <p>You take some dressings from your Medi-kit and place them on the ground in front of you (erase one Medi-kit unit from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), before turning and walking back to your roadster. The dressings may be of little comfort to these two Rad-vics (the name your colony gives to the victims of high-dosage radioactivity), but they may know others who will benefit from them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>These plastic containers are quite unlike anything you have seen before, and you are curious but suspicious: why have they been left untouched when everything else has been either looted or destroyed? Rather than risk opening what may turn out to be a bowlful of dangerous chemicals, you step away from the crate and quickly leave the basement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">To return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see a cloud of dust approaching, then the roar of 100 motorcycle engines fills the air as the Detroit Lions come racing along the freeway into Colorado City. 'You gotta hold 'em off until we've got this baby across,' shouts Cutter, as he waves frantic signals to Uncle Jonas, who is having to fight to keep the tanker in a straight line. The sight of the makeshift platform sagging under the weight of the heavy vehicle makes your stomach churn.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>'Count on us!' you shout in reply, then turn and follow Kate as she runs back towards the town.</p>
- <p>As you reach the end of the bridge you notice two ideal defensive positions. One is a three-storey factory that overlooks the freeway; the other is an auto wreck overturned on the approach ramp to the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to hide behind the auto wreck, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you decide to take cover inside the factory, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dying screams of their chief dispels the trance into which the clansmen have fallen, but before they can act, you jump into the Thunderbird and twist the ignition key. The moment the antique engine growls into life, you stamp on the gas pedal and accelerate away from the crowd. In a cloud of dust and blue smoke you leave Cross Plains and return to the gas station where you parked your roadster. Before ditching the Thunderbird you search it thoroughly and discover that the trunk contains a Pistol and three rounds of 9mm ammunition. Then, with night drawing in, you climb into your own car and drive away at top speed.</p>
- <p>When you reach Rising Star you find that the convoy is awaiting your return with trepidation. Because you are so long overdue, they feared that you had fallen foul of Mad Dog Michigan and his bikers. You tell them what happened to you in Cross Plains and everyone agrees that, with darkness almost upon you, it is too dangerous to continue.</p>
- <p>The night at Rising Star passes uneventfully and at first light the convoy sets off cross-country towards Abilene. The arid, stony bed of Pecan Bayou provides excellent cover from the surrounding high ground and leads the convoy northwest, back towards Freeway 20. It is shortly after midday when you reach the freeway, from which you can see the outskirts of Abilene less than five miles distant.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The journey southwest to Lake Lewisville is a slow and arduous trek across rough terrain, but one that cannot be avoided as you skirt around Denton. When finally you sight the dry lake, it is clear that crossing it will be a dangerous business as the convoy will make an easy target to anyone occupying the surrounding high ground. You must get the convoy across in the shortest time possible.</p>
- <p>The bed of the lake is littered with rusted car wrecks and old household machinery. Between these heaps of twisted scrap are avenues covered with slabs of broken earth that jut upwards at all angles, their sharp edges baked hard by months in the furnace-like heat. The bus and the tanker, both heavily laden, are soon reduced to a snail's pace for fear of shredding their tyres, and you are forced to stay close in case they break down or fall victim to an ambush.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If the number you have picked is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If it is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the ground. Your speedy reactions save you from being cut in half by the deadly tracer shells. The air is alive with bullet fragments and pieces of twisted metal, and you dare not raise your head for fear of being hit. Out of the corner of your eye you see Kate aiming her rifle from the window of the factory. She shoots and immediately the machine gun fire ceases. You look up to see the rider clutching his face with both hands. He swoons, falls backwards, and then tumbles from the saddle. Before the sidecar rider can jump free, the speeding machine careers off the road into the wall of an office building, and explodes in a searing ball of flame.</p>
- <p>With a smile you signal a thumbs-up to Kate and she returns your salute with a wave. A few minutes later a column of motorcycles<ch.emdash/>the main body of the clan<ch.emdash/>rides into view. They are now less than a mile from the bridge. 'C'mon you two!' shouts Cutter. 'It's time to go.' The tanker has made it across the platform and is now parked with the other vehicles on the far side of the river. Kate is running towards you from the factory and, as she reaches the bridge, you call out to her: 'Set the bomb! I'll cover you!'</p>
- <p>Tensely you watch the clansmen as they gun their bikes along the freeway, and you glance repeatedly over your shoulder, praying for Kate to signal that the bomb is ready. Then the front line of bikers open fire with their machine pistols, and suddenly the air is filled with the whine and whistle of bullets. 'It's ready!' shouts Kate, and takes off across the bridge at a run.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score and your Stealth skill total. (NOTE: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If your total is 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If your total is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are sure that the old hermit is bluffing and that he will say anything to cadge a ride with the colony. 'Sorry, old timer,' you say, as you make ready to leave the cave, 'the bus is full an' we're short o' food. Anyway, you'd be safer to stay here than come with us. There's a whole heap o' trouble on our tail.'</p>
- <p>'I ain't afraid o' trouble,' retorts the hermit proudly, 'an' I promise I'll be no burden to y'all. I'm rightly useful when it comes to huntin' an' findin' water. An' besides, if you want that bus o' yours back on the road, you need me to tell you where to find a new steering linkage.'</p>
- <p>It seems that you have no choice but to take the hermit with you. If he is bluffing about the replacement part, both he and the bus will not be going anywhere. Reluctantly you agree to his proposition and tell him to collect his things.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257"><link-text>Turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glance at your magazine, checking that there are sufficient rounds for a burst of fire, then pull and release the bolt. The metal stock feels hot against your cheek as you take aim at the clansman's chest and squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Add your Shooting skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If your total score is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With fear in your heart you spring towards the centre of the corral and dive with both your hands outstretched. The instant your fingers close around the hilt, you roll aside, avoiding by inches the vicious kick that your adversary aims at your head. Swiftly you find your feet and move on to the attack as your enemy falters.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Meltdown</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Grabbing the rollbar that protects the driving compartment, you pull yourself feet-first into the driving seat and reach out for the ignition. The engine growls responsively, but its powerful roar is all but drowned by a sudden eruption of gunfire. Bullets shatter the windshield, forcing you to throw yourself across the passenger seat to avoid being caught in a deadly crossfire. Then a savage voice screams a command and the shooting ceases. You stay down and make a grab for the gear shift, but before you can speed away, a leather-clad punk leaps into the car beside you, cackling like a maniac as he draws his knife.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Copperhead</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of his attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 for the first round of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fleeing man sees you and fires twice, but his aim is awry and the bullets pass high above your head. You raise your gun and order him to stop but he ignores your call. He shoots again and you return fire, killing him cleanly with a shot to the heart.</p>
- <p>Cutter appears and beckons you over to the diner. Inside the doorway lies the body of another man, a rifle resting across his bloodstained chest. 'I reckon these two were from that Maverick gang that Rickenbacker warned us about,' says Cutter, as he searches through the dead man's pockets. 'Seems like the Lions ain't the only ones we gotta look out for.'</p>
- <p>You help Cutter search the bodies and the diner. You discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (with two rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Rifle (with two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen containing enough water for three Drinks</li>
- <li>Serum, sulfonamides, and dressings, sufficient for three Medi-kit units.</li>
- <li>Flick knife (2)</li>
- <li>Club (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>As soon as your flat tyre has been repaired and the highway swept clear of spikes, you climb back into your roadster and lead the convoy on towards Big Spring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the bulky roll of polythene sheeting slung over your shoulder, you hurry back to the convoy as quickly as you can. Uncle Jonas greets you with a broad grin and offers to help you stow your find aboard the bus. 'That'll come in right useful if we run short o' water,' he says, as he slams shut the stowage door. 'We can use it to rig up a solar still.'</p>
- <p>Once everyone is aboard, you start the roadster and lead the convoy in single file onto the southbound carriageway of Freeway 35.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you bring your rifle to your shoulder, draw a breath through clenched teeth, then take careful aim at the enemy sniper perched on the building opposite.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If your total score is now 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dispatch the last of the attacking rats and wait until the others have disappeared before you get down from the counter. Still shivering with the shock of your horrific encounter, you search the store in case Maria is here. You are almost relieved to discover no trace of her; at least she has been spared the terrifying experience that you have just endured. You are about to leave to continue your search when your transceiver crackles into life. It is Kate, and she has good news: she has found Maria and she is on her way back to the school. You acknowledge her call, then tune your handset to Uncle Jonas' signal, using it to guide you back to base.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The walls of this trench bear no marks made by picks or shovels, leading you to suspect that the hollow was excavated entirely by hand. You are wondering who on earth would undertake such a task, when you hear a chilling sound: the baying of hounds.</p>
- <p>The city gangs of Fort Worth keep packs of vicious pit bull terriers, many of whom you have encountered and laid to rest. But nothing you have met in the past has prepared you for the horror that faces you now.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to maintain your grip, but the injuries sustained by your legs as you are dragged along the freeway sap the very last of your strength. Your grip fails and you fall beneath the rear wheels of the bus: death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a mile beyond the junction, the highway passes through a corridor of petrified trees, the pitiful remains of a fertile city park that thrived before the holocaust. Then it crests a ridge of high ground that overlooks the sickly, tainted waters of Lake Worth. The bridge ahead is blocked by a manned barricade, and you slow to a halt, signalling to the others to pull off the road to avoid being seen.</p>
- <p>Cutter is the first to join you, his eagle eyes fixed on the barricade as silently he assesses its strength. Uncle Jonas and Hammer Harlan are the next to arrive and they are quick to ask Cutter for his opinion. 'Ain't nothing fancy down there,' he says, almost casually. 'They got a few cars strung out in a line, that's all. I figure if we was to hit 'em hard enough, you can bet yer boots we'd bust through their centre like a bull through a wicker fence.'</p>
- <p>'We can't risk damaging a vehicle,' says Hammer, wiping the sweat from his brow. 'If we smash a rad or rip a tyre, we can kiss goodbye to our hopes o' seein' Big Spring.'</p>
- <p>'True enough,' replies Cutter, stroking his stubbly chin. 'But I've got an idea that'll give us a better-than-evens chance o' cuttin' through without a scratch.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is not until you reach the town of Trent, seven miles beyond the bridge, that you consider it safe to slow down and allow the convoy to resume its cruising speed. The sniper attack and the burning midday sun have left you shaking and streaming with sweat. You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The battered houses and stores of this Texan town slip past and once again a featureless plain of broken, sun-baked earth stretches before you. Your pulse has just returned to normal when you notice, out of the corner of your eye, something that sets it racing once more. Less than a mile to the north a small cloud of dust is moving across the plain parallel to the freeway. Slowly it draws nearer until you can hear the sound of two motorcycles and glimpse the ugly faces of their riders. They are both standing to help balance their bouncing machines, and as they approach the freeway, they open their throttles and lift their front wheels in a display of bravado. They draw level with your roadster, one on either side, and you notice the symbol that is painted on the sides of their fuel tanks. It is the head of a lion with its teeth bared: the symbol of the Detroit Lions clan.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>You hear the sound of two motorcycles and glimpse the ugly faces of their riders.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="584" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="584" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The clansman to your right shouts something but the rush of wind steals his words. You sense something land in the car, and when you turn to look, you are horrified to see a live grenade lying on the passenger seat beside you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your Driving and Stealth skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If your total score is now 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and your mouth fills with a thick, hot liquid. You have been hit in the face by three of the sniper's bullets. Your wounds are fatal; death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Colorado City.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect152-1-foot" idref="sect152-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heavy steel door is held shut by an electronic lock. At first you suspect that the lock has jammed, its power having run down long ago, but as soon as you touch the keypad, a blue LED display glows into life above it.</p>
- <p>Eleven numbers appear, arranged in three rows. There are four numbers on the top row, four on the second, and three on the third:</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
-
-<!--
- <table>
- <tr><td>2</td><td>12</td><td>5</td><td>9</td></tr>
- <tr><td>4</td><td>20</td><td>7</td><td>17</td></tr>
- <tr><td>12</td><td>12</td><td>4</td><td>-</td></tr>
- </table>
--->
- <p>You study the rows of numbers carefully, looking for a pattern. By tapping on the keypad the number that is missing from the last row, you will release the lock and open the door.</p>
- <p>When you think you know the missing number, turn to the entry that bears that number.<a id="sect152-1" idref="sect152-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you cannot work out the correct answer, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect153-1-foot" idref="sect153-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your short burst of fire catches the clansman across the midriff and doubles him over as he runs.<a id="sect153-1" idref="sect153-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As he crashes to the ground, his partner panics and begins to fire wildly, powdering the scree behind you. When the firing stops, you raise your head and peer through the bushes, expecting to see your enemy reloading. Instead he discards his empty magazine and turns to run away. He has exhausted his ammunition and has decided to make his escape while he still can.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are sure that the coast is clear, you rise and help Kate to her feet. The sound of a motorcycle riding away into the distance reassures you that your ambusher has fled, and confidently you scramble up the slope and walk over to examine the body of the one who did not get away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your instincts tell you that something is wrong. There is no trace of fear in the voice, neither does it sound like Maria. She comes from a Mexican family, and although she has been raised among the English-speaking people of DC1, she has picked up her mother's strong Spanish accent.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you approach the store and peer through a crack in the door. Inside you see two bearded men, armed with clubs, waiting to ambush you the moment you enter. There is no sign of Maria, so quickly you turn around and hurry away to resume your search of the school grounds.</p>
- <p>A few minutes later your transceiver crackles into life. It is Kate, and she has good news: she has found Maria and she is on her way back to the school. You acknowledge her call, then tune your handset to Uncle Jonas' signal, using it to guide you back to base.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your roadster to a halt on a ridge that overlooks the ruins of Denton. The place is familiar<ch.emdash/>you have stopped here many times in the past few months during the routine patrols of the area, to check that the town was not being used as a base by the gangs who were raiding McKinney. The ruins look deserted but you decide to check them anyway just to make sure.</p>
- <p>Having driven through the town and seen nothing unusual, you are turning around to return to the convoy when you hear the sound of motorcycle engines being kicked into life. Three bikes burst out of a building in the centre of the town and come racing after you, their riders whooping like Red Indians. All three machines are carrying pillion passengers, who are armed with an assortment of weapons. As the first bike draws level, its passenger gets ready to leap into the seat beside you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to this number your current Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If your total is now 0-9, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fifty miles of broken highway lie between you and the town of Albany. By mid-afternoon the temperature has climbed above 110<ch.deg/> Fahrenheit, and the combined effects of the scorching heat and the poor road surface begins to take its toll on those travelling aboard the crowded bus. As you approach the outskirts of a small town called Moran, Cutter signals for you to stop. 'We've got six people down with heat exhaustion and four more on the brink,' he says, his face awash with sweat. 'We've got to get 'em out of this travelling oven and let 'em rest awhile in the shade.'</p>
- <p>You suggest that the convoy waits in Moran while you go on ahead to make sure that Albany is safe to enter. By the time you have checked it out and returned, the worst of the afternoon heat will have passed and the colony will be better able to continue. Before you leave for Albany you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Unless you possess a tub of <typ class="item">Salt</typ>, you must reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 4 points, due to excessive salt loss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cry out in pain as the poison courses up your leg. You clutch the wound and strike a second blow at the snake, but it retreats swiftly, disappearing among the rocks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it the number of Medi-kit units you possess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If your total score is now 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'You had better take this with you,' says Pop Ewell, reaching into a satchel that he carries over his shoulder. He removes a hand-held transceiver and offers it to you. 'It's tuned to 153 megahertz. I'll be listenin' out for you the whole time you're away.'</p>
- <p>You take the <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ> (mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item<ch.emdash/>you must discard another item in its favour if you already carry the maximum quota of items), check the setting and make sure there is sufficient power left in its miniaturized solar-pac before you walk to your roadster.</p>
- <p>'Good luck, Cal,' says Uncle Jonas, as you switch on your ignition and check your instrumentation. 'Don't take no unnecessary risks, y'hear!'</p>
- <p>With a wave, you bid him farewell, before accelerating the roadster along the highway that leads to Mineral Wells.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you raise your shotgun, you shout at your people to get away from the window. Their screams of terror fill your ears as you take aim at the rider's chest and squeeze the trigger.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two miles and two hours later you reach the opposite side of the lake. Half an hour further on, the convoy makes a rest stop and takes stock of its surroundings. Traces of a paved road that disappears towards the west are found, and Cutter Jacks, who lived only a few miles from Lake Lewisville before 'The Day', identifies it as the remains of State Highway 407. 'This'll get us back on course,' he says confidently. 'Follow this baby and we'll make Freeway 35 in under an hour.'</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Twenty minutes later, Freeway 35 appears in the distance, its long, concrete body lying bleached and quaking beneath the fiery sun. The road you are following passes beneath it but, as you draw closer, you notice a ramp coiling away to your right, giving access to the freeway.</p>
- <p>A few hundred yards beyond the ramp you see another. It leads to the ruins of a once prestigious building<ch.emdash/>the North Texas State University.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to search the university, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you decide to lead the convoy onto Freeway 35, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your <a idref="map">map</a> of central Texas as your guide, you leave Colorado City and follow the remains of State Highway 208 north towards Lake Thomas. You are hoping that the dam marked there on your map is still intact, for most dams have a service road running across the top.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>An hour later you arrive at Lake Thomas to find that the dam is still standing. Excitedly you stop the car and start walking towards it. As you get nearer you see that the service road is no wider than a garden path: the bus and the tanker will never be able to cross the river here. Sadly you return to your car.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your Field Craft and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If your total score is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You park beside the control tower, switch off the engine, then wait. Only when you are sure that the area is deserted do you leave your vehicle and enter the derelict building. A spiral staircase leads to the main control room where once-sophisticated technology now lies scorched and twisted beyond recognition. You open a service hatch to find yourself staring at the skeletal remains of an air force sergeant.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>You open a service hatch to find yourself staring at the skeletal remains of an air force sergeant.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="587" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="587" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You regain your composure quickly and move to close the hatch. Then you notice that a holster and ammunition pouch are still attached to the dead soldier's belt, and your scavenger's instincts get the better of you.</p>
- <p>The holster contains a Pistol and the pouch holds twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition. If you decide to keep either of these items, amend your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a> and Ammo Pouch accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">To leave the control tower, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from Meltdown's body and turn to face the cheering crowd. Manhattan comes striding towards you, his face beaming, delighted that you have disposed of his would-be rival. 'Nice work, kid. I knew y'was a Kicker when I first set eyes on you,' he says glibly. Then he calls to one of his sidekicks and says something to him that you cannot hear. 'Follow Tweet,' he says, nodding to his grimy, one-eyed helper. 'He'll give you some chow and make sure you get some new equipment. Come see me in an hour<ch.emdash/>I've got a special job for you.'</p>
- <p>Tweet takes you to a motel near the centre of town, where he offers you enough food for one Meal, enough water for two Drinks, and a choice of the following weapons, ammunition and equipment:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Machine Pistol plus twenty rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Pistol plus six rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Rifle plus six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- </ul>
- <p>(You may take only one of the three weapons listed above.)</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">File</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Geiger Counter</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>(You may take any number of the above Backpack Items.)</p>
- <p>After you have eaten and re-equipped yourself, you ask to be allowed to visit the latrine. Tweet points to a restroom in the Motel's lobby and tells you to be quick: Manhattan does not like to be kept waiting. Once inside, you discover what you were hoping to find: a window. The small window overlooks an old parking lot, and seconds later, you jump down into it.</p>
- <p>You have been gone less than a few minutes when Tweet raises the alarm. Soon the town is swarming with clansmen searching for you. In desperation you hide in an old timber yard, where you wait patiently for the chance to slip out of Albany unseen. While you are lying low, you must take a drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect164-1-foot" idref="sect164-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hollow sound of your gunfire echoes across the dry lake bed and for a moment your target is obscured by smoke.<a id="sect164-1" idref="sect164-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As the cloud thins, you see that your efforts were in vain. The black figure is now running away from the tree towards a motorcycle that is lying on its side. Frantically he pulls the machine upright, kicks it into life, and makes a speedy escape.</p>
- <p>Helpless to prevent him from getting away, you signal once more to the others to restart their engines and continue with the difficult crossing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With terror gnawing at your insides you reach down and take hold of the grenade. In the next instant you hurl it out of the car and slam your foot down on the gas pedal. Seconds later there is a dull thud, and in your rear-view mirror you see the biker to your left disappear in a ball of orange flame as the grenade explodes underneath his motorcycle and ignites the fuel tank.</p>
- <p>Cutter sounds the bus's horn to alert you to the position of the remaining clansman. He is coming up fast on your blind side and, as he draws level, he jerks a machine pistol from his saddle-bag, cocks the bolt with his teeth, and opens fire</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If the number you have picked is 0-1, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If it is 2-5, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If it is 6-9, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push away the lifeless body of your enemy and spring like a tiger towards the boarding door of the bus. Inside, chaos reigns. Behind the driver's seat, Kate and Uncle Jonas are grappling with a fat clansman in a desperate attempt to prise a vicious machete from his hand. Meanwhile, the central aisle is blocked by a running battle as Hammer Harlan and Juan Rodriguez fight to defend the women and children from two fur-clad bikers. Their screams of terror merge with the curses of the clansmen, filling the bus with a chilling cacophony of noise. You act swiftly and decisively, plunging your hunting knife into the backs of the two bikers, and dispatching the third with a thrust to his heart.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the sound of a horn echoes from the other side of the camp, and you see the tanker, with Cutter at the wheel, start to move away. 'Quick, Cal!' shouts your uncle. 'Get back to your roadster an' follow Cutter. We're breakin' out o' here right now!'</p>
- <p>You leap from the bus and sprint towards your car as fast as your aching legs will allow. One of the bikers, dressed in a riding suit of tattered red leather, sees you running and stops his machine in order to draw his machine pistol. He is the leader of the clan and he intends to add you to the long list of those he has killed.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to this your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If your total is now 0-5, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If it is 6-10, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fatigue of your journey and the glare of the afternoon sun prevent you from noticing the shiny metal spikes that lay strewn across the highway. As you enter the town, there is a loud bang and your steering wheel shudders violently. You pull over to the side of the road and give an emergency signal to the convoy to stop immediately and not to follow you into Westbrook.</p>
- <p>The tyre on the right-side front wheel is completely flat. Wearily you climb out of the driving seat and go to inspect the damage. As you stoop to remove the spike, a shot rings out.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is now 9-14, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If your total is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect168-1-foot" idref="sect168-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift your gun and squeeze the trigger, trusting your aim to instinct alone.<a id="sect168-1" idref="sect168-1-foot" class="footnote" /> At the same time, the double muzzle flash of your enemy's weapon lights up the gloomy interior, making you cry out in anticipation of being caught by its deadly blast. But luck is with you. The shotgun spits its cloud of lead away to your right and you survive unscathed. Your enemy is not so lucky. Your gunfire hits him squarely in the chest, killing him instantly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using what scraps of cloth are available, you cover your nose and mouth before setting off into the storm. You pass the colony's vehicles and walk out onto the main street. With visibility less than five yards, you must rely solely on your sense of hearing for some indication of the child's location. Repeatedly you call her name, hoping she will reply, yet all you hear is the incessant howling of the dust-storm.</p>
- <p>As you cross the street, you catch what sounds like a young girl's voice drifting on the wind. You shout her name and a voice answers faintly: 'Help me<ch.ellips/> I'm here!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess a pair of <typ class="item">Goggles</typ>, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'We won't be a' skirtin' 'round this place,' says Cutter, casting a critical eye over the surrounding landscape. 'The land here's too craggy. The bus and the tanker'd not get a hunnerd yards. Nope, our only chance is to hit 'em before they get muled up. If we go now we could cut straight through that lil' ol' town and be on our way to Big Spring before they know what's happened!'</p>
- <p>The plan is put to Uncle Jonas and he agrees that it is the colony's best chance of reaching Big Spring before nightfall. Kate volunteers to ride shotgun with you at the head of the convoy. Uncle Jonas will follow in the tanker and Cutter will close up behind with the bus, enabling those with guns to man the back window and keep any pursuers at bay.</p>
- <p>Within a few minutes the plan is relayed to the colony and the vehicles are drawn up in line, ready to run the Coahoma gauntlet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210"><link-text>Turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tap in several numbers at random, in the hope that you will be lucky enough to hit upon the correct one. Unfortunately, after your sixth unsuccessful attempt, the lock de-activates, making further attempts at opening the door useless.</p>
- <p>Conscious of the amount of time you have spent in the basement, you decide to return to the colony without further delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect172-1-foot" idref="sect172-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have aimed too high: your gunfire passes over the driver's head, alerting his partner to your position.<a id="sect172-1" idref="sect172-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He returns fire, sending a hail of bullets into the wreckage that shields you. They strike with devastating effect, the deadly tracer shells blowing the rusty metal to pieces.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathlessly you climb the iron staircase to the roof. Three times your foot plunges through the rust-weakened steps and three times you nearly fall, but each time you manage to recover your footing and drive yourself onwards. Shots ring out and bullets fly, drawing sparks as they slam into the ironwork; the manic shouts of the angry mob echo loudly in the alley below.</p>
- <p>After what seems like an eternity you reach the top of the fire escape and stagger onto the warehouse roof. You are feeling light-headed and nauseous due to the combined effects of heat, exertion and fear. Your vision swims in and out of focus and you are finding it difficult to concentrate.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 19 or more, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If your total score is now 0-4, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect174-1-foot" idref="sect174-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear your enemy scream and catch a brief glimpse of him in your rear-view mirror when his body hits the dusty ground behind your speeding car.<a id="sect174-1" idref="sect174-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The other bikers lose interest and soon give up the chase. They peel away, cursing and firing ill-aimed shots at your back as you make your escape from Denton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198"><link-text>Turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn out the pockets of the dead clansman and empty the leather satchel that he carried over his shoulder. Among his personal effects you discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (no ammunition)</li>
- <li>Machine Pistol (no ammunition)</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Enough food for two Meals</li>
- <li>Water Canteen</li>
- <li>Enough water for three Drinks</li>
- <li>Enough pain killers, antibiotics, and dressings for five Medi-kit units</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Gold Nugget</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>You are sifting through his possessions, trying to decide which ones to keep (remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you keep any of the items), when you hear Kate calling to you to come and look at the dead man's motorcycle. Its fuel tank bears the same lion's head symbol as those of the two scouts you encountered on the freeway, but it is what Kate has found inside the saddle-bag that is of greater interest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spring to your feet and run at the exit. However, the stripy-faced youth, whom you encountered earlier wielding a lasso, suddenly appears in the doorway, blocking your escape. As he reaches for a revolver, which is tucked into his waistband, you lower your shotgun and fire. Only one barrel discharges<ch.emdash/>the other misfires<ch.emdash/>but the blast is great enough to lift your adversary off his feet and send him cartwheeling out of the door.</p>
- <p>You leap over his body and run along an alley that leads into a side street. You hear the mob yell out when they find the body, and you know that they will press their pursuit, so frantically you search for somewhere safe to hide. An old boarding house on the corner of the street looks like the answer to your prayers. You enter before the mob reaches the end of the alley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Let's go!' says Cutter, and simultaneously you leap into action. Your sudden appearance draws a volley of shots from a shallow gully situated twenty yards ahead, and a wave of fear knots your stomach as the bullets whistle past your head. Then Kate and the others open fire and force the bikers to duck behind their parapet of earth.</p>
- <p>On the far side, Cutter races across the rocky ground as fast as his skinny legs will carry him. A biker pops out of the gully like a jack-in-the-box and fires his pistol at your friend's lanky form, missing him by inches. Cutter fires back, a snap shot from the hip that hits the biker full in the chest, sending him spinning backwards into the trench. Three more bikers appear, panicked by the death of their confederate. One falls victim to covering fire; the second is felled by Cutter's second barrel; but the third escapes the crossfire and comes running out of the gully straight at you. He yelps with horror as he sees you, skids to a halt, and levels his pistol at your face.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting and Stealth skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If the total is now 0-9, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake ten hours later in a schoolroom bathed in bright sunlight. The storm has passed during the night and the sun has returned, bringing with it the oppressive heat. 'Ninety-two degrees already,' says Cutter, tapping at an old mercuric thermometer that hangs on the wall. 'And it's not yet eight o'clock. Today's a day for fryin' eggs on the sidewalk<ch.ellips/> if we had any eggs, that is.'</p>
- <p>Soon the colony is busy making preparations to leave. After clearing away the dust you check your roadster thoroughly, making sure that the fuel is clean and that the engine runs as smoothly as ever. Meanwhile, Cutter oversees a group who are working on the bus and Uncle Jonas heads another team who are servicing the tanker. The others, led by Kate, search the school for anything that could be useful on the road ahead. By mid-morning the convoy is back on the road, following Freeway 20 away from the dust-blown ruins of Abilene on the next stage of the journey west.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>You have been driving for little over an hour when you see a bridge in the distance and notice a glint of sunlight bouncing off a point near the centre of the parapet. Not until you are within 100 yards of the bridge do you realize what is causing the refraction: it is the telescopic sight of a sniper's rifle and it is aimed directly at you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add it to your Driving and Stealth skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If your total is now 8-13, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If your total is now 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the first opportunity, you pull the roadster over to the side of the freeway and wait for the convoy to catch up. You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>A few minutes later the tanker and the bus come thundering out of Coahoma. Apart from a few extra bullet holes, they both appear to have survived the run intact. You restart your engine and accelerate away, confident that the colony will reach Big Spring before sunset, but when you glance in your rear-view mirror you spot something that sets your pulse racing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89"><link-text>Turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You squeeze the trigger and feel the butt of your rifle kick your shoulder. Your enemy has no time to cry out as the bullet finds its mark with deadly accuracy. It passes straight through his heart, killing him instantly.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Remember to erase one 7.62mm round from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">To continue, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you tear open your Backpack and remove the Rope. You slide down the slope, riding the shale feet-first, and, as you near the bottom, get ready to throw Kate your line. Twice you cast it across the water to no avail. Then, on the third attempt, she manages to grab it and you are able to pull her, breathless and bedraggled, onto the muddy shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The twin beams of your headlights cast a white corridor of light along Freeway 20 as you overtake and pull in to take your place at the head of the convoy. With the memory of the biker's raid still fresh in your mind, you cast frequent glances in your rear-view mirror to make sure that the clansmen are not on your tail.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The road climbs steadily for several miles as it approaches the mountains of Erath County. A signpost reflects the glare of your lights, announcing your entry to the town of Thurber, which once had a population of 5,006. You contemplate that figure, wondering how many, if any, inhabitants are still alive, when you are distracted by a light flashing in your mirror. It is the bus: Uncle Jonas is signalling for you to stop.</p>
- <p>You reach the bus soon after Cutter and hear him asking what is wrong. Uncle Jonas says nothing. He simply tugs at the steering wheel and watches in dismay as it spins freely on the hub. 'Looks like we've got ourselves a big problem,' says Cutter, peering under the front wheel arch. 'The steering linkage has sheared clean in two. I'd guess that rough ride out o' Santo did for it good and proper.'</p>
- <p>'Can you fix it?' asks Uncle Jonas.</p>
- <p>'Not without welding gear, or a replacement part,' he replies, dejectedly. 'I guess we'd better stop here for the night. Looks like we won't get much further in this ol' bus, anyhow.'</p>
- <p>An uneasy silence descends on the colony once news of the breakdown spreads. Cutter continues to inspect the bus but you decide to return to your roadster and snatch a few hours sleep. You are staring at the surrounding mountains, lost in thought, when you see a pinpoint of light flickering in the darkness. With your pulse racing, you grab your gun and set off to take a closer look.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the man hurries towards your car, he sees you crouching behind the engine and panics, shooting wildly. He empties his pistol and then, in frustrated anger, he leaps across the hood of your roadster and jumps on you, wielding the butt of his gun like a cosh.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Six-pac</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the ferocity of his attack, you are unable to draw a close combat weapon until the start of the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually you enter the last storage room: it contains two objects that stir your curiosity. The first is a large wooden crate, seemingly overlooked by whoever looted the other basement rooms, and the second is a reinforced steel door that is set into the far wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to take a closer look at the crate, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you wish to investigate the steel door, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you choose to examine neither the crate nor the door, you can return to the convoy; <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On your arrival at Colorado City you discover that the colony has been busy during your absence. Using materials salvaged from the ruins of nearby factories, they have managed to put down a platform that spans the gap in the middle of the bridge. Now Cutter is supervising the strengthening of this platform to ensure that it will withstand the weight of the loaded tanker, the heaviest of the convoy vehicles.</p>
- <p>You tell everyone that you were unable to find an alternative way across the river, expecting the news to be met with disappointment. But most of the colony greets your scouting report with a nod of approval, a reaction that baffles you until Kate offers an explanation. 'That explosive we found at Lake Sweetwater is now under the bridge,' she says, pointing towards the newly laid platform. 'Once we're all on the other side, I'll trigger the timer and two minutes later<ch.ellips/> boom! No bridge! It might not stop the Lions chasing us but it should keep 'em off our backs until we reach Big Spring.'</p>
- <p>You are about to take a closer look when Pop Ewell calls everyone to the bus. He has made radio contact with Big Spring. 'Here, Cal,' he says, handing you the headphones, 'your ears are younger than mine. See if you can figure out what they're saying.'</p>
- <p>You slip on the headphones and listen to a voice that is almost completely obscured by the hiss and crackle of static. You close your eyes and concentrate as hard as you can in an effort to understand what is being said. 'The guy says he's going to pay us a visit,' you say, hesitantly, suspecting that you have not heard the message correctly. Then the static fades and clearly you hear the words: 'Be with you soon. Watch the skies!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The whole of your right arm aches painfully from the exertion of opening your pack, but you ignore the pain and persist until your fingers locate the loops of your flexible wire saw. With care you remove it, slip it around the ropes that bind you, and slowly work it back and forth until they part. Less than a dozen clanswomen and children are on the street, but you bide your time, waiting for the right moment to make your move.</p>
- <p>Carefully you consider the two escape routes that appear open to you. You can either run east along the main street and back towards your car, retracing the route by which you entered Cross Plains; or you can run in the opposite direction and attempt to hide in the maze of alleys that once serviced the town stores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to run east, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you decide to run west, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The biker screams as your killing blow pierces his heart. He throws his arms wide and tumbles backwards out of the car, his lifeless body falling directly beneath the front wheel of his partner's motorcycle and causing his friend to somersault over the handlebars. The other bikers lose interest in you and soon give up the chase, allowing you to escape from Denton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198"><link-text>Turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Yahoo! There she is!' screams Cutter, pointing excitedly at a fortified settlement that has just appeared in the distance. 'Big Spring! We've made it!'</p>
- <p>All the hardships that have been suffered <foreign xml:lang="fr">en route</foreign> are instantly forgotten when the members of the colony look upon their destination. Suddenly the bus is filled with laughing, crying, cheering people as everyone reaffirms their hope that this journey is the first step towards the civilization they once knew.</p>
- <p>A green flare climbs into the darkening sky and bursts over the town, signalling that the Big Spring colony has seen you approaching. Pop Ewell makes radio contact, and passes on their welcome. 'They say the freeway gate is open. All we got t' do is drive straight in.'</p>
- <p>The Mavericks seemed to give up the chase as soon as they saw the flare, and now the freeway looks deserted. You join Cutter at the front of the bus and scan the landscape for some sign of your roadster, but the only other vehicle you can see is the tanker, trundling along a few hundred yards ahead.</p>
- <p>A few minutes later you see your car in the distance, parked at the side of the freeway. As you draw nearer you get ready to wave to Kate. Your heart almost stops when, with horror, you see that two motorcycles are parked alongside, and Kate is embroiled in a desperate hand-to-hand struggle with their riders. 'Stop the bus, Cutter!' you shout. 'It's Kate; she's in trouble.'</p>
- <p>Cutter slows the bus and you leap out onto the freeway and run towards Kate. 'Help me, Cal!' she screams, as the Mavericks try to bundle her, kicking and punching, into a sidecar attached to one of their machines. A blow to the back of her head with the stock of a machine pistol brings an end to her resistance. Then, as you approach, the biker turns and fires a long burst from the hip.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>The Mavericks try to bundle Kate, kicking and punching, into a sidecar.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="581" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="581" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you total is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Strawn is held by a gang o' renegades,' says Mountain Goat, looking west along the freeway in the direction of the town. 'There's 'bout forty of them. They was kicked out o' San Angelo six months ago after they tried to take over the Angelo clan from Mekong Mike. He sure whomped 'em real good. Those that got away came north an' settled here. They're known as 'the Skulls' on account o' their shaved heads, an' their leader is a real mean dude called Alcatraz. He an' his gang have got Strawn sewn up like a genuine fortress, just in case Mekong Mike should ever get the idea to come an' pay 'em a surprise visit.'</p>
- <p>Dangerous though it would be, a raid on Strawn must be attempted. Cutter proposes that you and he should be the ones to go: he can identify the part that is needed, and you are by far the fittest member of the colony. You swallow your fear and agree to go with him at first light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect190-1-foot" idref="sect190-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire brings down another of the slavering dogs and the others halt in their tracks.<a id="sect190-1" idref="sect190-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Turning, they run away, scattering in all directions as they flee the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect191-1-foot" idref="sect191-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Raising your weapon, you trust to instinct alone as you point it at the intruder and squeeze the trigger.<a id="sect191-1" idref="sect191-1-foot" class="footnote" /> At the same time, the double muzzle flash of his shotgun lights up the gloomy interior, and you cry out in pain as birdshot peppers your right arm and shoulder: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>You stagger backwards and lean against the wall in order to stay on your feet. Your enemy is not so fortunate. Your gunfire has hit him full in the chest, killing him instantly.</p>
- <p>Remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">To continue, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your enemy collapses dead at your feet, a starburst of pain explodes in your head and darkness engulfs your vision. You have been struck from behind with the butt of a shotgun, which knocks you unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep your eyes focused on the clansman as you unshoulder your weapon. He is now less than 100 yards from the roadster and drawing closer with every passing second.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try tapping in several numbers at random, in the hope that you will be lucky and hit the correct number by chance. Unfortunately, after your sixth try, the lock de-activates, making any further attempts to open the door useless.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to examine the crate, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you choose to leave the basement and return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'One of them's heading for the roadster,' you say, watching anxiously as the clansman scurries around the rim. 'I'm going to stop him before he gets there!' Kate protests, but you are determined to save your car, and reluctantly she agrees to cover you as best she can with the tiny Derringer pistol that she carries in her boot.</p>
- <p>'I call it 'Chihuahua',' she quips, as she cocks the double-hammers and gets ready to fire. 'It don't look much but it makes one helluva noise!'</p>
- <p>You scan the slope. When you have picked out the best place to make your climb, you break cover and zigzag along the shore towards it. Immediately, the machine gunner opens up on you. Kate replies with a single shot and he diverts his fire back to the rocks and bushes. Swiftly you claw your way to the top of the slope and run straight at the clansman, grimly determined to intercept him before he can do any damage to your roadster. He sees you approaching, draws a pistol, and, still running, empties it at your chest.</p>
- <p>Add your Stealth skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If your total is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The success of your daring night raid is applauded by the colony. Mountain Goat is especially pleased that you found the part needed to fix the bus, and he is quick to remind everyone that without his help the mission would not have been possible.</p>
- <p>After a few hours' rest, you help Cutter and Uncle Jonas install the new steering linkage. Then you fill your roadster's fuel tank with gasolene piped from the tanker and prepare to lead the convoy on the next stage of the long journey west.</p>
- <p>You leave Freeway 20 and travel cross-country in order to bypass Strawn. Later in the afternoon you rejoin the highway as it approaches Lake Leon and the town of Eastland. You are two miles from Eastland when you spot an obstruction in the far distance that appears to he blocking the entire road. However, you are aware that the constant heat haze can play strange tricks on your vision, so you signal to the convoy to halt while you scout ahead.</p>
- <p>A mile along the highway you discover that the obstruction is in fact a trench that has been dug diagonally across the road. It is sufficiently deep along its whole length to wreck any vehicle attempting to cross it at speed. You bring your car to a halt and step out onto the sun-scorched asphalt in order to take a closer look at this curious excavation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you possess a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ> or <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively, you turn your back to the blast and cover your face and hands. The burning liquid splashes your leather jacket and sets it alight, but you are able to extinguish the flames before your back is badly burned: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219"><link-text>Turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On your speedy return to the convoy, Uncle Jonas tells you that a moving cloud of dust was sighted to the north soon after you left to scout Denton. Judging by the short time it took to cross the horizon, he suspects that it could only have been made by a large gang of bikers on the move. 'We'd best swing aroun' Denton by the southwest,' he says, squinting at a tattered old route map that he has spread across the hood of your roadster, 'just in case it was some o' them Yankees you tumped in Sherman.'</p>
- <p>You gaze at the now-empty horizon and nod in agreement. 'You take point, Cal,' he says, as he folds his map and goes off to pass word of the detour to Cutter and the others. You see fear and uncertainty in their eyes as Uncle Jonas explains the sudden change of plan. As soon as he is back behind the wheel of the bus, you start your engine and lead the convoy away to the southwest, towards a parched bowl of cracked and barren land that was once the bed of Lake Lewisville.</p>
- <p>You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">To continue, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The voice seems to be coming from directly ahead. Slowly you advance until the dark outline of a toy store looms out of the storm. You approach and, as you reach its open door, you are relieved to see little Maria sitting cross-legged in the middle of the store. She is playing happily with a large furry bear, totally oblivious to the panic her disappearance has caused.</p>
- <p>You radio the good news to Cutter and Kate, and tell them to return to the colony. Then you gather up Maria and her new playmate in your arms, cover her head to protect her from the storm, and switch your transceiver to Uncle Jonas' signal to guide you back to the school.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spring to your feet and run towards the platform, weaving back and forth in order to present the Lions with a difficult target. Kate and Cutter are screaming encouragement, inspiring you to greater effort when you reach the centre of the bridge. Bullets are flying everywhere: whistling, singing, smacking into the asphalt on either side of your feet as you sprint the last few yards. As you pass the tanker, Cutter steps in front of you and grabs your jacket to slow you down. He points to the ruins of a nearby church and tells you to follow him there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize at once the chemical symbol for sodium chloride<ch.emdash/>common salt: you have stumbled upon a huge stockpile of a substance that is vital to human survival, yet one that is becoming harder to find with every passing day. In your excitement you give a shout and can barely stop yourself from dancing around the crate in sheer delight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to take as many tubs of salt as you can carry and then return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to investigate the steel door before leaving the basement, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You force yourself to breathe deeply, giving your blood the oxygen it craves. As your pulse steadies and your vision clears, you see a second fire escape that services the far side of the building. Slowly you make your way towards it, taking care to avoid the many holes that puncture the roof, then you race down the steps and escape along a deserted passage that leads to a derelict timber yard. There, behind a stack of rotting fencing posts, you crouch, waiting for a chance to escape from Albany. While you are lying low, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you creep along the side of the diner and peer around the corner. The front door is open and you can make out the shadowy shapes of the two men as they move about inside. Patiently you wait for the best moment to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you possess a missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The road stretches before you, empty and silent, shimmering beneath the early morning sun. With the temperature already in the mid-nineties, you are grateful for the cool breeze that whips through your hair as you speed across the barren flats. The tracks made by Long Jake's tyres are still fresh in the dust that blankets the highway, and you trail them all the way to the outskirts of Sherman, where you discover his pick-up abandoned near an old gas station.</p>
- <p>A line of footprints disappears towards the centre of the town, and, as you follow them along the main street, you catch sight of Long Jake, a rifle in his hand, waving at you from the doorway of his brother's store. Behind him stands a girl. She looks eighteen, maybe younger. Judging by the state of her clothing she must have been through a pretty rough time. You bring your roadster to a halt in front of the store and, nervously, Long Jake motions you to enter. 'Quick, Cal!' he hisses. 'Get over here!'</p>
- <p>You are barely out of the driving seat when a burst of machine gun fire rings out across the street. Bullets hit the ground near your feet and a number of holes appear, stitched in a jagged row across the trunk of your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to get back into your roadster and try to escape this ambush, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to dive to the ground and take cover, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foul smell of their unwashed bodies dissuades you from searching through the pockets of your two attackers. However, their clubs lie on the ground nearby and you may keep one if you wish (record it on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a> as a Club (2)).</p>
- <p>A search of the store reveals no trace of Maria, and you are about to leave to look elsewhere when your transceiver crackles into life. It is Kate, and she has good news: she has found Maria and she is on her way back to the school. You acknowledge her call, then tune your handset to Uncle Jonas' signal and use it to guide you back to base.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your gun and take aim at the moving figures, but in the poor light it is difficult to separate the bikers from your own people. You hesitate, and in that split second your weapon is kicked from your grasp. A burly clansman, his head shaved and tattooed, drags you from under the tanker and attempts to choke you to death with his bare hands.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cuttisark</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of the attack, you are unable to draw a close combat weapon until the start of the second round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wade out of the water, your boots heavy with cloying river mud, and stop to scrape away the muck. Unfortunately, you are standing directly over a nest of scorpions, and when you stoop to pick up a stick, you receive a painful sting on the palm of your hand.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it the number of Medi-kit units you currently possess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If your total score is now 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Here Cal, take this,' says Uncle Jonas, offering you his sawn-off shotgun. 'When you git in close you won't need to be too fussy where you point this beauty.'</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>You take the gun and check that both barrels are loaded. 'I'll go left,' whispers Cutter.</p>
- <p>'Whenever you're ready,' you reply, tensing your body in preparation for the run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden sound to your left betrays the hiding place of a would-be ambusher. You spin on your heel, drawing your hunting knife and tensing yourself in expectation of an attack. Lurking in the doorway is a scrawny youth dressed in tattered buckskin. His clothes, and the coloured stripes that mark his face, remind you of books you read when you were young; books with pictures of Red Indian braves, who fought the cowboys of the old West. The youth screams a curse and casts a rope lasso around your shoulders, but before he can draw it tight, you sever it with one sweep of your razor-sharp blade. His scream echoes across the street and draws forth others of his kind all of them dressed in similar Red Indian costumes. They advance towards you, brandishing knives and axes, and you turn and run in fear for your life.</p>
- <p>As you run past the entrance to a small bar, another group appears on the sidewalk less than twenty yards ahead. Shots ring out, forcing you to dive for cover inside the bar. Fortunately the place is deserted, but the angry screams of the mob grow louder by the second. Quickly you scan the gloomy interior, searching for a way out or a place to hide. Two possibilities present themselves: the staircase to the first floor, and the counter at the rear of the bar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to ascend the stairs to the first floor, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to hide behind the counter, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You check your rear-view mirror and see both Cutter and Uncle Jonas giving you a thumbs up. 'Hold on tight,' you shout to Kate, your voice almost lost as you rev your engine. 'Here we go!'</p>
- <p>You move away, keeping an eye on your mirror to make sure that you do not outdistance the rest of the convoy. Then, as you approach the outskirts of the town, Kate raises her shotgun and gets ready to greet the Maverick clansmen who are brave, or foolish, enough to stand in your way. Gunfire erupts from the windows of the nearby buildings and bullets whistle past, fired from all directions. Kate opens up in reply, empty cartridge cases spewing from her gun as she picks off the renegade bikers with chilling accuracy. Then the first of the obstacles appears and you stamp your foot to the floor. The force of your car's acceleration hits you like a kick in the back. The car screams through the town, scattering motorcycles and riders, its rear wheels trailing a blue haze of friction-burnt rubber.</p>
- <p>The last few buildings are flashing past on either side when you see a solitary figure standing in the middle of the highway ahead. As you scream towards him, coolly he raises a rifle and takes aim at your windshield.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>Coolly the figure raises a rifle and takes aim at your windshield.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If the number you have picked is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If it is 3-8, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The familiar outline of McKinney appears on the horizon and you increase speed. You are keen to return as quickly as you can and warn the colony of the danger now approaching from the north. Your return is met with mixed feelings: all are upset to hear that Long Jake is dead, and many are disappointed that you could not save the cache of rifles and ammunition that he found. However, all, without exception, are thankful that you are still alive and, despite the threat of a revenge attack by Mad Dog Michigan, they welcome Kate to the colony with open arms.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>In the light of this new threat to your safety it is decided that the colony should not wait until tomorrow to begin its long journey west. With all the major preparations already completed, the convoy is loaded and ready to move off within the hour. All that remains to do, once the convoy is at a safe distance, is to set fire to the ranch. This will destroy the supplies you are forced to leave behind, preventing them from falling into the hands of either Mad Dog Michigan, or the murderous city gangs of Dallas and Fort Worth.</p>
- <p>Once the Ewell ranch is ablaze, you lead the convoy cross-country towards Denton. There you hope to pick up Freeway 35 and follow it south on the first stage of your journey to Big Spring. Two miles outside Denton, you signal to the others to halt while you go ahead and make sure that the town is empty and the freeway is clear of obstructions.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Add together your current levels of Field Craft and Perception. Now, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 = zero) and add this to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total is now 6-12, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If it is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip inside the diner and use the overturned tables and chairs for cover. One of the men places his weapon on the floor in order to take a home-made cigar from his pack, and when the other man strikes a match and offers it to him, you launch your attack. You fell the man holding the match with a crushing blow to his neck, then you turn to face his partner, but his reflexes are far quicker than you expected. He hurls his lighted cigar at your face and you are forced to slap it aside with the back of your hand. Before you recover, he leaps at you and wrestles you to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Belushi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the ferocity of his attack, you are unable to draw any close combat weapons until the start of the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a tremendous effort, you leap and dive across the hood of your roadster to avoid being caught by the burst of automatic fire. Bullets follow you across the car, piercing the side and glancing noisily off the case-hardened rollbar, but your swift reflexes save you from being hit.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are safely under cover you let out a scream that convinces your enemy that he has killed you. He turns his attention elsewhere, and you are able to pull yourself into the car and start the engine without being seen. Swiftly you accelerate away, steering your roadster towards the tail-lights of the bus as it crashes through a group of bikers and escapes onto the freeway. A few random shots ricochet off the trunk as you follow the bus out of Santo, but within minutes you pass out of range and the gunfire ceases.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you bring your shotgun to your shoulder, draw a breath through clenched teeth, and take aim at the enemy sniper perched on the building opposite.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If your total score is now 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step over your dead enemy and look around for his revolver. Just then you hear the angry screams of the mob as it draws closer, and you abandon your search, slamming shut the door and bracing it with a piece of scrap wood. It is a desperate measure and the wood will not hold them for long, but it could buy you the precious seconds you need to get away.</p>
- <p>A back alley leads into a side street where, frantically, you search for somewhere safe to hide. An old boarding house opposite looks like the answer to your prayers, and quickly you cross the empty street and enter the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dead bikers sport snake tattoos around their throats, marking them as members of the Arlington Vipers gang. Your colony has encountered many from this gang during the past few months; they often led night raids on the DC1 settlement at McKinney.</p>
- <p>In addition to three pistols and a shotgun, which are given to some of the colonists aboard the bus who have no weapons, a search of the bikes and bodies reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Two Knives (2)</li>
- <li>Enough food for three Meals</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Mirror</typ></li>
- <li>Enough antiseptic and pain killers for two Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Water Canteen</li>
- <li>Enough water for two Drinks (1 pint)</li>
- <li>Twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Three rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Telescope</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">File</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. After your exertion, you must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">To continue, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You accelerate a split second before the angry clansman empties his machine pistol into your car in one long burst of fire. The special armour-piercing loads penetrate the rear, many of them passing clean through the trunk and out the far side. Miraculously, you escape with just a grazed rib, the bullet having been stopped by the thickness of your driving seat (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Had it travelled two inches further it would have severed your spine!</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door lies a mass of heavy machinery: an engine that once powered a thrilling space ride, which was the biggest attraction of this provincial town park. You glimpse the obsolete engine as you dive and manage to twist aside at the last moment. Although you graze your shoulder (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), you save yourself from crashing head first against its stainless-steel casing.</p>
- <p>As you recover, your hand locates the sharp implement that caused your wound. It is a Crowbar (2). If you wish to keep this item, record it on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a> as a close combat weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56"><link-text>Turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All those whose clothes have been set alight by splashes of the burning gasolene-and-oil mixture, are dragged away from the blaze and smothered with blankets. Miraculously, nobody is seriously burnt, but the bus itself is still ablaze and the flames and fumes are beginning to spread rapidly towards the front.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you possess a <typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ>, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'We gotta get out<ch.ellips/>' you say, turning towards Long Jake. But your words of warning stick in your throat when you catch sight of him lying on the floor, unmoving, his chest wet with blood. You reach for a Medi-kit and rush to his side, but it is too late; he caught the worst of the shotgun blast and nothing can be done to help him now.</p>
- <p>'Watch the street,' shouts the girl, as she moves forward to search the body of Long Jake's killer. 'This dude you've wasted has some real mean kin. They'll soon get to wonderin' what's hap'ning in here and'll come to check us out.' She pockets some cartridges, snatches up the killer's shotgun, and hurriedly reloads it as she moves towards the door. From out of the ruins opposite step three punks armed with pistols. Slowly they advance, their movements stiff with caution.</p>
- <p>'Make a run for the car,' she says. 'I'll cover you.' You nod in agreement and take a deep breath before launching yourself out of the doorway. The punks stop and shoot wildly at your moving form, but their nerve deserts them when the girl opens fire, and they soon melt away into the ruins. You reach your roadster, start the engine, then beckon to the girl to follow. The moment she is safely aboard, you drop the clutch and stamp your foot on the gas pedal. The engine roars and the back wheels spin, sending up great clouds of dust and loose stones, but the car does not move forwards. Panic knots your stomach as you feel the rear end snaking sideways<ch.emdash/>you are losing control. Then the tyres grip the road and you are thrown back in your seat as you screech away, accelerating like a rocket along the main street that leads out of Sherman.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to dodge the swathe of bullets, but your reactions are dulled by fatigue and injury and you cannot avoid being hit in the chest and arm: lose 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you are still alive after this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your anxiety you manage to get a few hours sleep before dawn. As the sky brightens, Uncle Jonas voices his fear that the vehicles are far too exposed out on the highway, where they can easily be spotted and will be sure to attract another raid like the one you endured last night at Santo. Cutter agrees, so before you set off for Strawn he fixes a line to the back of the tanker and tows the bus into a nearby gully.</p>
- <p>There, Uncle Jonas and the others set to work dismantling the broken steering linkage, while Mountain Goat draws a map of Strawn, showing the location of the truck depot. He hands the sketch to Cutter, and you and he check your equipment and bid farewell to the others before setting off.</p>
- <p>Two hours later you catch sight of the fortified town. It is perched on a ridge of high ground and enjoys an unobstructed view over the surrounding land. You note its perimeter wall, constructed of rubble and old cars, and the crudely built watchtowers that command its freeway approaches. It seems to you that it would be impossible for a large group, or even a single vehicle to approach this town undetected, yet the rocky terrain that surrounds it enables you and Cutter to crawl to within a few hundred yards of the perimeter wall without being seen.</p>
- <p>Patiently you observe the inhabitants of Strawn while waiting for night to fall. During your long vigil you must eat a Meal (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and take two Drinks (or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You identify two weak links in the defensive wall: one is an alley that services an old shopping mall; the other is a chain-link fence that surrounds a derelict amusement park at the edge of town. Cutter suggests that you enter Strawn separately in order to minimize the risk of being seen, then meet at the depot itself. He offers you first choice of approach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to enter Strawn via the alley, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you decide to enter the town via the amusement park, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your goggles on you are able to discern the dark outline of a toy store directly ahead. You approach and, as you reach its open door, you are relieved to see little Maria sitting cross-legged in the middle of the store. She is playing happily with a large furry bear, totally oblivious to the panic her disappearance has caused.</p>
- <p>You radio the good news to Cutter and Kate, and tell them to return to the colony. Then you gather up Maria and her new playmate in your arms, cover her head to protect her from the storm, and switch your transceiver to Uncle Jonas' signal to guide you back to the school.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the convoy and tell the others the disappointing news, that the bridge at Lakeside Village is out. There is only one alternative<ch.emdash/>the bridge across Lake Worth. As you take your place at the head of the column and lead the convoy along Highway 820, you can only pray that it has not suffered a similar fate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In your weakened condition you fail to notice that you are standing at the edge of a gaping hole and, as you shuffle forwards, you tumble straight into it. Automatically you throw out your hands to grasp at anything that will arrest your fall, but before your fingers find purchase, your head glances a supporting beam and you are knocked unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to control your fear as slowly, inch by inch, you back away from the deadly rattlesnake. You have made a wise move: the snake is terrified and only too eager to escape a confrontation. As soon as it sees you retreating, it too backs off.</p>
- <p>As you watch the snake slither away you breathe a deep sigh of relief. You must now take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you climb back into your roadster and return to the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutter points to the side of the highway, where a length of crash barrier lies curled and twisted like a petrified metal snake. 'We could rig that piece to the front of the bus,' he says, indicating a v-shaped section shorter than the rest, 'and use it like one o' those ol' fashioned batterin' rams. It'll protect the engine an' wheels an' pack one heck of a punch.'</p>
- <p>Uncle Jonas looks sideways at Cutter, his eyes narrowed, his face drawn and serious. Then his expression softens and he starts to laugh. 'Why you sly old son of a gun. Trust you to figure out a way.'</p>
- <p>Fifteen minutes later, the barrier is firmly roped and braced to the front of the bus. Cutter volunteers to take the wheel and lead the attack, with Uncle Jonas driving the tanker and you bringing up the rear in your roadster. If all goes to plan, the bus will smash through the barricade, leaving a gap wide enough for both the tanker and you to follow in its wake.</p>
- <p>As soon as everyone is in position, Cutter gives the signal to move. Fortunately, the bridge is below you, at the bottom of a steep hill, enabling the bus to build up a good speed. Your heart quickens as the convoy gathers pace, and nervously you watch as your speedometer needle moves further around the dial.</p>
- <p>The bus is fifty yards from the barricade when the defenders open fire, their automatic weapons filling the air with wave upon wave of lead. The vast bulk of the tanker shields you from this hail of death, but your heart goes out to those aboard the bus who must be bearing the brunt of this withering fire. Then you hear a tremendous crash as the bus slams into the barricade, and moments later you see the tanker shudder as it widens the gap that Cutter has made. It ploughs through with ease, but in doing so, it catches and spins the torn wreckage directly into your path. A cold chill runs down your spine as the twisted wreck of a car comes hurtling towards your windshield.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>The tanker catches and spins the torn wreckage directly into your path.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="586" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="586" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Driving and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If your total is now 0-10, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If your total is now 11-14, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If your total is now 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman screams his death cry and crashes to the ground. Quickly you prise the Machete (3) from his hand and scan the street in search of an escape route. (Remember to record the Machete on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Carefully you consider the only two routes that appear open to you. You can either run east along the main street, and back towards your car, retracing the route by which you entered Cross Plains; or you can run in the opposite direction and attempt to hide in the maze of alleys that once serviced the town stores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to run east, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you decide to run west, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect229-1-foot" idref="sect229-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire and immediately the sniper clutches his chest.<a id="sect229-1" idref="sect229-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He gives a loud scream and then tumbles over the parapet, landing with a thud on the sidewalk below. With grim satisfaction you stare at his body, but your gaze is distracted when a column of motor cycles<ch.emdash/>the main body of the clan<ch.emdash/>rides into view. They are now less than a mile from the bridge. 'C'mon you two!' shouts Cutter. 'It's time to go.'</p>
- <p>The tanker has made it across the platform and is no parked with the other vehicles on the far side of the river. You leave the factory and run back towards the bridge. When you reach the position that Kate is defending, you say breathlessly: 'Set the bomb<ch.ellips/> I'll stay here and cover you!'</p>
- <p>Tensely you watch the clansmen as they gun their bikes along the freeway, and you glance repeatedly over your shoulder, praying for Kate to signal that the bomb is ready. Then the front line of bikers open fire with their machine pistols, and suddenly the air is filled with the whine and whistle of bullets. 'It's ready!' shouts Kate, and takes off across the bridge at a run.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> POINTS score and your Stealth skill total. (Note: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level).</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If your total is 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If your total is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attacker screams and falls backwards out of the car, disappearing into the cloud of dust that is being kicked up by your heavy-duty racing tyres. But no sooner has one danger passed than another looms into view. The combat has distracted your attention from the land ahead and, as you regain full control of the roadster, you find yourself hurtling straight towards the overturned wreck of an ambulance.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If your total is now 3-8, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Debris from the explosion lies scattered across the ground for hundreds of yards. Cutter is worried that the vehicles may have been wrecked, but after a thorough check the damage is found to be superficial. As soon as the colony are back on board the bus, you slip behind the wheel of your roadster and lead them away from Colorado City. You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You have been driving for no more than twenty minutes when you see in the distance a small cluster of weathered buildings shimmering in the heat. A sign informs you that you are now approaching the town of Westbrook.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Perception skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If your total score is now 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If your total score is now 21 or more, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch carefully as the group draws closer, noticing several things that make you feel uneasy. The dogs look much larger than ordinary alsatians, and flecks of white foam drip from their mouths as they tug and snap repeatedly at their heavy chain leashes. By contrast, the two handlers appear painfully thin and gaunt, the skin on their faces unnaturally pale despite the burning desert sun.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Rather than await their arrival, you decide to return to your roadster and leave, but you have taken barely a dozen steps towards your car when the dogs emit blood-curdling howls and come racing across the rocky ground towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you possess enough food for three Meals, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you do not possess this much food, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab your rifle, pull back its bolt, and let it spring forward to chamber a round. With the safety off and the tangent sight set at 200 yards, you rest the barrel across the rollbar of your roadster and take aim at your distant target. At this range the figure in black appears little more than 1/16 inch high, but this does not cause you any worries. You are used to hitting targets up to half a mile away, using this rifle.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total. Now decide how many rounds you wish to fire (minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds). For every round you fire, add one point to your current score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You breathe a sigh of relief when you discover that there is an ampoule of anti-toxin in your Medi-kit. Quickly you administer the injection and the pain slowly subsides. As the anti-toxin takes effect, it makes you nauseous, causing you to retch violently: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Eventually these side effects disappear, but they leave you shaky and dehydrated.</p>
- <p>You must now take two Drinks (or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you climb back into your roadster and return to the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The broken ground is illuminated by the full moon but, after a short while, the shadow of Washout Mountain intrudes across your path and soon you find yourself in pitch darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you possess a <typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ>, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you fumble for the grenade, but in your panic you knock it off the seat and it rolls into the passenger foot well, beyond the reach of your outstretched hand. Suddenly there is a tremendous flash and you are thrown into the air. Then darkness engulfs you and you cease to think or feel or be.</p>
- <p>Your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glance over the wing of your car just long enough to pinpoint the muzzle flash, then duck back and wait for a break in the firing. There is a sudden silence. You chance a second glance and spot a shadowy figure, silhouetted in the window, withdrawing an empty magazine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you are using a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you are using a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you are using a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you are using a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout at your people to get away from the window as the Maverick hurls his fire-bomb. Their screams of terror fill your ears as they scramble across the seats in a desperate attempt to escape the blast. You hear a sharp crack as the bottle strikes the glass, then there is a brilliant flash of orange and yellow light as it smashes through the window and bursts into flames.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If the number you have picked is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If the number is 3-9, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chief smiles as the colour drains from your face, then he motions to his driver who slowly drives him away. The clan continues to dance around you for nearly an hour before dispersing to prepare for your sacrifice. During this time you manage to free one hand, and furtively you work at undoing the buckles of your Backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you possess a <typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ>, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you possess a <typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ>, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The white plastic tubs are unlike any container you have seen before. You are curious but suspicious: why should they have escaped untouched when everything else in the university has either been looted or destroyed? Rather than risk opening what may turn out to be a tub of hazardous or poisonous chemical, you back away from the crate and leave the basement quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">To return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab his wrist but you have mistimed your action and you cannot maintain your grip. He breaks free and, with a maniacal scream, plunges the dagger deep into your unprotected chest. Red hot pain fills your body, but the agony is soon replaced by a terrifying numbness. The last thing you see is the triumphant smile fixed on your killer's face.</p>
- <p>Your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are winded by your fall and lie for several minutes staring helplessly at the starry sky. Gradually you recover your senses and manage to pull yourself unsteadily to your feet. A cursory check of your equipment reveals that your <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ> is smashed to pieces, together with the second Backpack item listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (erase both of these items from your list).</p>
- <p>As your strength returns, you resolve to climb out of the gully as quickly as you can.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth and Field Craft skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If your total score is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the derelict factory and take up your position at a top floor window that overlooks both the freeway and the bridge. Below you can see Kate. She is crouching behind the auto wreck with a rifle in her hands. Nervously you count the passing seconds, your eyes fixed on the road.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The first of the Lions appears: it is a motorcycle and sidecar. A lion's head flag flutters from an aerial fixed to the rider's saddle, and a heavy-calibre machine gun is mounted in front of his partner's chair. As soon as they see the tanker they open fire, sending a stream of tracer bullets arcing towards the bridge. The fiery shells tear great holes in the asphalt and riddle Kate's position, but bravely she holds her ground. You rest your weapon on the window ledge and watch the enemy vehicle through your gunsight as it speeds towards the bridge. You are about to fire when a single shot echoes along the street, and you see the rider throw his hands up to his face. Seconds later the speeding machine careers off the road, slams into the wall of an office building, and explodes in a searing ball of flame.</p>
- <p>With grim satisfaction you stare at the burning wreckage, but your gaze is soon distracted by something moving across the roof of the building opposite. It is a clansman, dressed wholly in black leather and wearing a visored crash helmet. He stops at the corner, unslings a rifle, and takes careful aim at the bridge. Your pulse quickens when you see that the barrel of his gun is pointing directly at Kate.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>Your gaze is distracted by something moving across the roof of the building opposite. It is a clansman.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect124">If the gun you are holding is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait until the man is about to jump, then you brake heavily and swerve towards the motorcycle. The rider senses your move and stamps on the rear brake, locking his back wheel and slewing his machine sideways along the road. The passenger is sent flying. He hurtles through the air like a rock from a catapult, and crashes against the trunk of your car with a sickening thud. You hear him groan and catch a glimpse of his body in your rear-view mirror, lying broken on the stony ground as you accelerate away towards the ridge. The other bikers lose interest and soon give up the chase. They return to the town, pausing only to curse and fire a few ill-aimed shots at your back as you make your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198"><link-text>Turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fortunately, the injuries you sustained during your fight with the rabid dog were caused by rough contact with the road surface, and not by contact with the animal's infected fangs. You check yourself carefully, cutting away any parts of your clothing that show traces of the deadly saliva.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop your containers and slide down the slope, riding the loose shale feet-first. As you near the bottom you dig in your heels, using the speed of your descent to lever you forwards into a perfect dive. You reach Kate in a matter of seconds, but she is struggling so fiercely that it takes many minutes before you are able to get hold of her and swim towards the shallows. Eventually, breathless and bedraggled, you crawl out of the water and collapse side by side on the muddy shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hell you will!' shouts Cutter in reply, and looses off a round from his old Colt .45 to reinforce his answer. You glance over the top of the slope and try to estimate the enemy's strength. The punks are well hidden but three motorcycles are visible in the distance. 'It's a bluff', you whisper. 'I reckon there can only be six of them at most.'</p>
- <p>The muffled sounds of crying can be heard aboard the bus as the children take fright at the unexpected sound of gunfire. Uncle Jonas and Harvey Harlan, known affectionately as 'Hammer Harlan' by the rest of DC1, jump out of the boarding door and run towards you, both of them cradling loaded shotguns. Hurriedly you make a plan: Uncle Jonas, Kate and Hammer will stay here and give covering fire while you and Cutter circle around behind the punks' positions and attempt to flush them out into the open. It is a bold move but one that must be attempted. If the punks manage to pin you down until more of their gang arrive, then the fate of the convoy will be sealed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you possess a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you do not possess this missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instantly you drop to the ground and take cover behind the engine compartment of your car. A glance over the hood invites another shot; it passes within inches of your scalp and makes you duck, but not before you notice the muzzle flash of the sniper's gun. The ambusher is hiding in the doorway of a diner on the other side of the highway. Two motorcycles are parked at the side of the building, indicating that he is not alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutter helps you to hide the clansman's body in the trunk before returning to the front of the bus to finish his work. Meanwhile, you search inside and find an old tool bag that looks ideal for transporting the heavy linkage. Cutter completes the job and stows the linkage in the bag. Together you carry it out of the service bay and across the parking lot towards the exit.</p>
- <p>Weighed down by the heavy load, you find it impossible to move quickly and your escape from Strawn takes several hours to accomplish. You manage to avoid the Skull clan's perimeter patrols, but it is not until mid-morning of the following day that eventually you arrive back at the colony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you close in on them, the machine gunner unsheathes a hunting knife and runs forward to meet your advance. He curses vilely as he sweeps the blade through an arc towards your throat. You back away and avoid its razor-sharp tip, but the Maverick follows up his advantage and lunges at your heart.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Warhol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An eerie silence is broken by Long Jake, who shouts out: ''Taint over yet, Cal. There's more of them damn peckerwoods hidin' out there somewhere!' As if to prove his point, two single shots ring out, almost simultaneously, and ricochet off the storehouse wall. Watch your sides,' Jake yells. 'Don't let 'em circle you.'</p>
- <p>You sense someone, or something, moving among the ruined shops away to your right. They are trying to get into a position where they will have a clear shot at you. If you are to survive this ambush you had better find somewhere less exposed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to make a dash for the store, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you decide to jump into your roadster and take off along the main street, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A violent gust blows you off your feet and rolls you along the ground. Wearily you rise to your knees and radio Cutter for assistance, telling him what you have heard. He replies that it was probably a trick of the storm, and that you must continue the search or, if the wind is too strong in your area, abandon it and return to the school. Less than a minute later you hear the voice again, and desperately you try to pinpoint its source.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Perception skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If your total score Is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Better set up your transceiver before you go, Cal,' says Pop Ewell, 'so's you can call us if you get in a fix.'</p>
- <p>'Use the 153 megahertz band,' says Cutter. We'll have someone here listenin' out for you the whole time you're away.'</p>
- <p>You set your radio to the chosen frequency and make sure there is sufficient power left in its miniaturized solar-pac before you get ready to leave.</p>
- <p>'Good luck, boy,' says Uncle Jonas, as you switch on your ignition and check your instrumentation. 'Don't take no unnecessary risks, y'hear!'</p>
- <p>With a wave, you bid him farewell, before accelerating the roadster along the highway that leads to Mineral Wells.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw back the bolt of your C-12 and shout at your people to get away from the window as you hurriedly take aim at the rider's chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect255-1-foot" idref="sect255-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The steel door appears to be held shut by an electronic lock. You suspect it to be jammed, its power source run down long ago, but as soon as you run your fingers over the keypad, an LED display glows into life above it.</p>
- <p>Eleven numbers appear, arranged in three horizontal rows. There are four numbers on the top row, four on the second, and three on the third:</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
-
-<!--
- <table>
- <tr><td>8</td><td>7</td><td>9</td><td>6</td></tr>
- <tr><td>94</td><td>20</td><td>37</td><td>77</td></tr>
- <tr><td>52</td><td>57</td><td>11</td><td>-</td></tr>
- </table>
--->
-
- <p>You study the rows of numbers carefully, looking for a pattern. By tapping on the keypad the number that is missing from the last row, you will release the lock and open the door.</p>
- <p>When you think you know the missing number turn to the entry that bears that number.<a id="sect255-1" idref="sect255-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you cannot work out the correct answer, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your fingers close around the chief's wrist, you twist his hand aside with all the strength you can muster. He screams in frustration and tries to counter your unexpected move by grabbing at your throat with his free hand. In the desperate struggle the blade passes within an inch of your chest. He tightens his grip until you can no longer breathe, but you fight tenaciously to maintain your hold. The tip of the dagger wavers, dangerously close, then jerks upwards and cuts through your bonds. Instinctively you lash out with your freed hand and knock the chief down with a forceful punch to the jaw. By the time he has recovered and staggered to his feet, you have stripped away the remaining ropes and freed yourself from the totem. He still holds the dagger, but he is alone<ch.emdash/>his clansmen are deeply entranced and oblivious to the struggle that is taking place before them.</p>
- <p>'Heng will be appeased!' screams the chief, and lunges once more at your heart.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>'Heng will be appeased!' screams the chief, and lunges once more at your heart.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="582" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="582" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Chief Drawoher</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'You'll never regret this,' he says, excitedly, and scurries away to the rear of the cave to collect his meagre belongings. He reappears a few minutes later with a tattered rucksack on his back, and offers to lead the way down the steep hill. During the descent he tells you that Strawn is the next town due west. Before 'The Day', a large service depot that repaired buses and trucks was located there. If the part you need still exists, the service depot at Strawn is the place where you are most likely to find it.</p>
- <p>Upon reaching the bus, you find that the reaction of the colony to Mountain Goat is less than enthusiastic. Most, especially the women, are horrified at the thought of having to share the bus with a smelly, flea-ridden hermit, and angrily they voice their protest.</p>
- <p>Not until they have heard how he can help to get the bus moving again do they change their minds.</p>
- <p>'Where is this depot?' asks Cutter.</p>
- <p>'It's six miles west o' here,' pipes Mountain Goat, eager to appear helpful.</p>
- <p>'Good. At first light, Cal can drive us there and you can help locate the part we need.'</p>
- <p>'Mmmm<ch.ellips/> OK,' replies Mountain Goat, hesitantly, 'but first I think there's something y'all should know.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You attempt to dodge the gunfire, but your legs are too weak to propel you quickly enough. Three of the six shots hit you in the body, wounding you fatally. As your life's blood ebbs away and darkness encroaches, you see the flash of the explosion that destroys your roadster.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Lake Sweetwater.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly your fingers go numb as the biker lashes out at your hand with the heel of his boot, sending your pistol spinning high into the air. You curse the loss of a good weapon (remember to delete this Pistol from your list of missile weapons), and fumble for your Hunting Knife as your attacker gets ready to leap into the seat beside you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bronx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Because of your numb hand and your need to remain in control of the roadster throughout this combat, reduce your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you dive away from the window, your speedy reactions saving you from being cut down by the swathe of bullets. Then you hear a man scream and abruptly the firing ceases. You chance a glance out of the window to see the sniper falling from the parapet, clutching at his chest as he crashes to the sidewalk below. With a smile you signal a thumbs-up to Kate and she returns your thanks with a wave of her rifle.</p>
- <p>A few minutes later a column of motorcycles<ch.emdash/>the main body of the clan<ch.emdash/>rides into view. They are now less than a mile from the bridge, 'C'mon you two!' shouts Cutter. 'It's time to go.'</p>
- <p>The tanker has made it across the platform and is now parked with the other vehicles on the far side of the river. You leave the factory and run back towards the bridge. When you reach the position that Kate is defending, you say breathlessly: 'Set the bomb<ch.ellips/> I'll stay here and cover you!'</p>
- <p>Tensely you watch the clansmen as they gun their bikes along the freeway, and you glance repeatedly over your shoulder, praying for Kate to signal that the bomb is ready. Then the front line of bikers open fire with their machine pistols, and suddenly the air is filled with the whine and whistle of bullets. 'Its ready!' shouts Kate, and takes off across the bridge at a run.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score and your stealth skill total. (NOTE: if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If your total is 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If your total is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect261-1-foot" idref="sect261-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch your Beretta 92 from its holster and flick back the safety as you level it at the leading dog. You take aim between its wild, feral eyes, but as you squeeze the trigger it leaps up and your bullet strikes low, catching it in the throat.<a id="sect261-1" idref="sect261-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The dog crashes to the ground, mortally wounded, yet the others continue to advance, undeterred. They leap across the body of their injured brother and hurl themselves at your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total. Now decide how many rounds you wish to fire at the remaining dogs (minimum: one round; maximum: five rounds). For every round you fire, add 1 point to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If your total score is now 1l or more, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger forwards, grimly determined to prevent them from abducting Kate, despite the agony of your wounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you possess a missile weapon, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scream as you pull on the wheel in the desperate hope of avoiding the wreck that is now spinning towards your car. There is a violent jolt, and you are flung against the dashboard as the wreck clips the side of your vehicle and cartwheels into the lake: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Dazed and bloodied by the injury to your face, you fight to regain control of your car as it veers wildly from side to side.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If the total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If the total is now 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, you push the barrel of your rifle through the bush and flick the adjustable rear sight to a range setting of sixty yards. The wooden stock feels uncomfortably warm against your cheek as you take aim at the running clansman. Holding your breath, slowly you squeeze the trigger.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Add your Shooting skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total score is now 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to dodge aside but the front wheel of the motorcycle runs over your right calf, forcing you to the ground with a painful jolt: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the pain, you manage to roll under the tanker and crouch beside the rear axle.</p>
- <p>In the flickering light of the campfire you see two bikers skid to a halt, then hurriedly step away from their machines. Both draw knives as they run towards the open door of the bus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to unshoulder a weapon and open fire on the bikers, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you choose to leap to your feet and try to intercept them before they enter the bus, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quick, defensive action has saved you from a venomous bite. Your blow causes the rattlesnake to fall limply to the ground, unconscious. Before it revives, you move forward and finish it with a crushing blow to the head, then you step back and wipe the sweat from your forehead with the back of your hand.</p>
- <p>You must now take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you climb back into your roadster and return to the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'What is it?' you ask, curiously.</p>
- <p>'The guy you killed back there in the store, the one who wasted Long Jake, well, his name was Stinger,' she replies, as if the name should mean something to you.</p>
- <p>'So, what of it?' you say, quizzically.</p>
- <p>'Well<ch.ellips/> he was Mad Dog Michigan's brother. When the others report what has happened to him, Mad Dog's gonna be after us for sure. The guy's a psycho. Believe me, I know. He'll stop at nothing to get even.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw a breath through clenched teeth, check that the safety catch is off, then focus your aim near the centre of the driver's crash helmet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If your total score is now 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, the stores show signs of having been looted recently. Lockers, drums, and crates that were once full of spares and munitions lie discarded in heaps on the floor. You climb across the debris, searching among the empty ammunition lockers. After nearly an hour of painstaking work, you manage to find just three rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a Hammer (2).</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep these items, amend your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a> and Ammo Pouch accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">To leave the stores, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lead the convoy along the split and cratered surface of State Highway 571, across a wasteland of bleached hills and scorched scrub. In the distance you see mountains<ch.emdash/>the twin summits of Caddo Peaks and the craggy outline of Spring Mesa<ch.emdash/>standing sharp and clear against the backdrop of a cloudless sky. By mid-afternoon the temperature has climbed to 110<ch.deg/> Fahrenheit, and the combined effects of the heat and poor road surface begin to take their toll. Two miles inside Comanche County, the tanker is forced to halt with an overheated engine. Luckily, the breakdown occurs within sight of the Sabanna River, now little more than a torpid stream, and enough water is soon collected to enable the tanker to continue. (If you wish, you can refill your Water Canteen at the river at the cost of one Medi-kit unit).</p>
- <p>Gradually the road turns westwards and climbs towards high plains country. Then, as you approach the outskirts of a town called Rising Star, Cutter signals to you to stop. 'We've got six people down with heat exhaustion, and four more on the brink,' he says, his face awash with sweat. 'We've got to get 'em out of this travelling oven and let 'em rest awhile in the shade.'</p>
- <p>You suggest that the convoy waits in Rising Star while you go on ahead to make sure that Cross Plains is safe to enter. By the time you have checked it out and returned, the worst of the afternoon heat will have passed and the colony will be in better shape to continue. Before you leave for Cross Plains you must take a drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Unless you possess a tub of <typ class="item">Salt</typ>, you must reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total by 4 points, due to excessive salt loss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After two hours of painfully slow driving, the convoy reaches the far side of the lake, only to discover a hostile reception awaiting it. Just as you had suspected, the spy you saw earlier was a city gang member, one of a group of bikers out foraging for food. He has alerted the others in his group and now they lie in ambush, like a pack of hungry jackals, waiting for the convoy to come within range of their guns.</p>
- <p>You have just cleared the top of the slope that marks the old shoreline of Lake Lewisville when the bikers make their presence felt. A volley of shots ricochet off the hood and side of your roadster, forcing you to swerve to a halt. Grabbing your gun, you leap out of the car and scream a warning to the others as you take cover at the edge of the lake. Cutter and Kate come running up the slope to join you but, just as they reach your side, a harsh voice yells out: 'There are more than thirty of us here and we're armed to the teeth. You don't stand a chance. Throw down your weapons and surrender and we'll spare your lives!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon every ounce of your strength to save yourself from falling under the wheels of the bus. Painfully, you pull yourself aboard and, as you stagger up the short flight of steps towards the driver's seat, you see Cutter locked in a vicious struggle with a blond-haired Maverick, who is trying desperately to wrestle the wheel from his hands.</p>
- <p>As you approach, the Maverick releases Cutter and tries to grab you by the throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Emteevee</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to avoid two more patrols before escaping from the mall and meeting up with Cutter at the truck depot. You are both relieved to discover the place empty and unguarded, and quickly you make your way to the stores building. You find the records office, but without electricity you cannot access the computer files to pinpoint the exact location of the spare you need. With mounting fear you realize that in order to find a new steering linkage you will have to search every one of the 1,600 storage bays that occupy the building.</p>
- <p>'We'll be here forever if we have to search the shelves,' you whisper. 'I guess you're right,' replies Cutter, 'but I think I know a quicker way of finding what we need. Follow me.'</p>
- <p>Intrigued by Cutter's reply, you follow him out of the stores building, across a parking lot and into another section of the depot that is marked:</p>
- <signpost>ZONE 3: MUNICIPAL VEHICLE SERVICING</signpost>
- <p>After searching four of the dozen service bays, finally he discovers what he is looking for: a school bus. 'Cal, you keep y'eyes open while I strip the linkage out o' this baby. Give me an hour an' we'll be on our way.</p>
- <p>Nervously you stand guard at the door to the service bay while Cutter works. All is quiet until, forty minutes later, you see something moving among the vehicles on the far side of the parking, lot: it is a drunken clansman. Slowly he staggers nearer, taking alternating gulps from the bottles clutched in either hand. He is about to pass on his way when Cutter drops a spanner. The ringing noise pierces his drunken stupor and prompts him to investigate.</p>
- <p>'Trouble on its way!' you whisper to Cutter, but your warning is too late. A moment later, the clansman comes lurching through the open door, brandishing his bottles like clubs. He sees you and screams an oath as he gets ready to launch his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chickamauga</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you are walking back to your roadster, you fail to hear the warning rattle of a diamondback rattlesnake that is lying coiled among the rocks immediately in your path. When you step on its perfectly camouflaged body, it lunges, sinks its fangs into your left leg, and then slips away before you have a chance to retaliate.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it the number of Medi-kit units you currently possess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If your total score is now 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect275-1-foot" idref="sect275-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your enemy's reactions are lightning fast. He throws himself down behind the window and your gunfire passes harmlessly through the now empty frame.<a id="sect275-1" idref="sect275-1-foot" class="footnote" /> An instant later, the unexpected sound of running feet makes you spin on your heel. A leather-clad punk, his skull shaved and sprayed with rings of metallic brown paint, is charging at you from the ruins with a knife held high in his hand. You raise your weapon, but before you can squeeze the trigger, he dives full length and catches you in the chest with the crown of his head. His attack slams you backwards to the ground and, gasping for breath, you struggle to grab hold of his wrist before he can make use of his deadly blade.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Copperhead</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the suddenness of his attack, you must fight the first two rounds of combat unarmed and with your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> reduced by 2 points. If you are still alive at the start of the third combat round, you will then be able to draw your Hunting Knife.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the pin and hurl your grenade through the open window. It bounces noisily on the tiled floor of the diner, startling the men and causing them to cry out in surprise. Moments later their cries are lost amid the deafening roar of an explosion. Silence follows but you wait for the acrid smoke to clear before venturing inside to see what remains of your would-be killers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119"><link-text>Turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to pick up and inspect one of the empty cartridge cases when you hear something moving above you. Immediately you dive to your left, acting purely on instinct, a reflex that saves you from being caught beneath a heavy rope net dropped from the roof to the sheriff's office by two thin-faced punks. It falls, smothering the ground where, only seconds before, you were standing.</p>
- <p>The silence is shattered by a riot of noise as a dozen clansmen rush out of the surrounding buildings, screaming and brandishing an assortment of weapons. Escape is your only thought as they start to close in, and swiftly you jump to your feet and race towards an alley that runs alongside the sheriff's office. Bullets ricochet off the wall as you turn the corner, urging you to quicken your pace, but you are brought to a sudden halt when you see that the alley is a dead end. With a howling, bloodthirsty mob in hot pursuit, you search desperately for a way out.</p>
- <p>You can see only two routes that offer an exit from this alley. One is a iron staircase<ch.emdash/>the rusty remains of an old fire escape<ch.emdash/>that leads to the roof of a warehouse; the other is a door at ground level that leads into the same building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to climb the staircase to the roof, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you decide to enter the door at ground level, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rear of your car judders as it scrapes along the parapet of the bridge, yet, despite the rough ride and the stinging pain of your facial wounds, you manage to regain control of the roadster and steer it towards the rear of the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two shots are fired almost simultaneously, filling the bar with a deafening explosion of noise. They rip open the front of the counter less than five feet from where you are crouching, bringing down most of the rickety shelves that line the back wall. Amid a cascade of bottles and glasses, you scurry towards the end of the counter, your eyes fixed on a door situated beneath the staircase. Above it, an unlit sign reads:</p>
- <signpost>EXIT<ch.emdash/>FIRE ESCAPE USE IN CASE OF EMERGENCY</signpost>
- <p>'I reckon this constitutes an emergency,' you mutter, as you get ready to break cover and run towards the door. Just as you are about to leave your hand brushes against the stock of a sawn-off shotgun that is lying on a shelf beneath the counter. Both hammers are cocked and the chamber tags show that both barrels are loaded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to take this weapon, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you decide to ignore it, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the school in time to see Kate handing little Maria back to her parents. Juan and Rosita Rodriguez cannot thank her enough, and everyone else, including yourself, is full of praise for her. As the excitement begins to wane, Cutter approaches and asks you to brave the storm once more, this time to retrieve food and other vital supplies from the bus. Willingly you agree.</p>
- <p>'This is one heck of a blue norther,' he says, as you climb aboard the bus. Reckon it could hold us here for a day or two before it blows itself out.' 'I sure hope you're wrong,' you reply, as you prise open the floor hatch that gives access to the luggage hold from inside the bus. 'Take a look at this.' A fetid smell rises from the compartment: the smell of rotten food. 'Dadburn it! That's all we need right now!' exclaims Cutter, as he examines the swollen food parcels at arm's length. The heat's put paid to these rations. Now we're really in for a hard time.'</p>
- <p>The colony react to the news of the spoiled food with silent disbelief. What little that can be saved is carefully shared out, but it amounts to barely a day's rations per person. If we don't find some food to replace what we've lost,' says Aunt Betty-Ann, as she distributes the last of the stone-hard bread, 'it'll be a convoy of skeletons that drives into Big Spring.'</p>
- <p>'Well, at least we've got enough water,' replies Pop Ewell. 'We can live for three weeks without food, but we'd all be dead in three days without water.'</p>
- <p>Some people save their ration but you decide to eat yours before finally settling down to sleep (if you currently have food in your Backpack you must now erase it; all food, including personal supply, was pooled before distribution).</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sudden glint of sunlight on glass alerts you to a potential danger. Two hundred yards away to your left, on a ridge of high ground that overlooks the lake, you see a dark figure crouching beside a petrified tree, observing your progress through a telescope. The only people likely to be in this area are scouts or food foragers from one of the Fort Worth street gangs. If this spy manages to alert his gang, the colony might never make it out of Lake Lewisville alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you have a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you decide to go after the spy on foot, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you choose to ignore the spy and continue crossing the lake, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gunshots are unbearably loud in the confines of the diner. A starburst of pain explodes in your head: you have been hit in the face by two 9mm bullets. They penetrate your skull, causing death instantly.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Westbrook.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cold sweat bathes your face as you rip open your Medi-kit and inspect the vaccines and serums. Fear turns to panic when you discover that you have no Dysalomine, the anti-rabies vaccine. Terrified of what will happen to you if you are unable to find some Dysalomine in the next few days, you jump into your roadster and race back to the colony.</p>
- <p>Your worst fears are realized when you discover that there is no Dysalomine aboard the bus. Immediately, Uncle Jonas organizes a search of nearby towns in the hope of discovering a supply in a hospital or derelict drug store, but all attempts prove fruitless.</p>
- <p>Ten days later, unable to drink due to fever and muscle spasms, you slip into a coma from which you never regain consciousness.</p>
- <p>Your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes half an hour to reach Santo and rendezvous with the colony. They have set up camp on a knoll of bare ground that overlooks a watercourse known as Pinto Creek, now completely dry. Uncle Jonas orders that the vehicles be drawn into a circle, like a ring of wagons in the wild west, to offer the best protection against the threat of a night raid. Lots are drawn to see who will stand the first watch; unfortunately, you pick the shortest straw.</p>
- <p>It is an hour after midnight when you spot a cluster of lights in the middle distance. The bikers are less than a mile away to the east, and approaching at speed. With only a few minutes at most before they reach the camp, you sound the alarm.</p>
- <p>Like a pack of screaming demons the marauding bikers descend on the convoy, shooting wildly as they weave in and out of the circle. One of the bikers guns his machine towards you, forcing you to dive aside to avoid being ridden down. You are staggering to your feet when another attacks you from behind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If your total is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If your total is now 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more you glance in your mirror and see the biker coax his machine into your slipstream. Behind him the convoy is barely visible, the bus and tanker cannot match the speed that you have maintained in your race against the clansmen. Then you see your enemy reaching inside his leather jacket. He withdraws a grenade, pulls out the safety pin with his teeth, and gets ready to lob it into your car. Immediately you stamp on the brake pedal and fight with the steering wheel to keep the roadster in a straight line as it screeches to a halt. A moment later there is at tremendous jolt as the clansman crashes into the rear of your car. An instant later he somersaults over your head, wide-eyed with terror, before disappearing behind the central crash barrier that divides the freeway. A muffled boom and a plume of dust marks the violent demise of yet another Detroit Lion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race up the carpeted stairs, but as you reach the top you are confronted by two savage-looking women, both armed with knives. For a moment they stare at you with hatred blazing from their eyes, then simultaneously they emit a hideous shriek and launch themselves upon you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>Two savage-looking women, both armed with knives.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="580" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="580" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Lipsync</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Catsup</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must fight each of these women in turn. Owing to the speed and ferocity of their attack, you are unable to use a missile weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you win both combats and together they take seven rounds or less to complete, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If the combats take eight or more rounds to complete, when added together, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steering with only your left hand, you snatch your Beretta auto from your shoulder holster with your right hand and thumb back its safety catch. The ruins are beginning to thin out and, as you hit the stony, pot-holed wasteland that surrounds the town, you dare not take your eyes off the ground ahead for fear of crashing. Without turning your head, you point your pistol over your left shoulder and squeeze the trigger in the hope of hitting your attacker.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting and Perception skill totals. For every bullet you decide to fire, add an additional point to your total (but be sure to erase them from your Ammo Pouch).</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If your total score is now 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If it is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The roar of 100 motorcycle engines fills the air as the Detroit Lions come racing along the freeway into Colorado City. 'Y'better take this, Cal,' says Kate, handing you a Rifle that she found while you were away. 'I think you'll be needin' it real soon.' You draw back the bolt and work a cartridge into the breech, noting that there are only two 7.62mm rounds remaining in the magazine (remember to record all three of these 7.62mm rounds<ch.emdash/>one in the breech and two in the magazine<ch.emdash/>in the Ammo Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>'You gotta hold 'em off until we've got this baby across,' shouts Cutter, as he waves frantic signals to Uncle Jonas, who is having to fight to keep the tanker in a straight line. The sight of the makeshift platform sagging under the weight of the heavy vehicle makes your stomach churn.</p>
- <p>'You can count on it!' you shout in reply, then turn and follow Kate as she runs back towards the town.</p>
- <p>As you reach the end of the bridge you notice two ideal defensive positions. One is a three-storey factory that overlooks the freeway; the other is an auto wreck overturned on the approach ramp to the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to hide behind the auto wreck, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you decide to take cover inside the factory, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed of your reactions saves you from the wheels of the motorcycle. You hit the ground, roll over to lessen the impact, then take cover beneath the belly of the tanker. In the flickering light of the campfire you see two bikers skid to a halt, then hurriedly step away from their machines. Both draw knives as they run towards the open door of the bus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to unshoulder a weapon and open fire on the bikers, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you choose to leap to your feet and try to intercept them before they enter the bus, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself forward and your swift reflexes save you from being cut in half by a swathe of bullets. As you rise to your feet once more, the shooting stops with a dull <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia>, a sound that tells you that the gun is now empty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you do not have a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has the first dog fallen dead at your feet, than another is leaping through the air towards your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Second Rabid Dog</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach for your weapon as the Maverick clansman draws back his arm to hurl the Molotov cocktail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you are using a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you are using a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you are using a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you are using a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect293-1-foot" idref="sect293-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by instinct alone, you swing your gun around and squeeze the trigger.<a id="sect293-1" idref="sect293-1-foot" class="footnote" /> At the same time, the double muzzle flash of your enemy's weapon lights up the store, and you cry out in pain as a fistful of birdshot clips your right shoulder: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your wound is superficial. However, your enemy is not so lucky. Your gunfire hits him squarely in the chest, killing him instantly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A solitary open window, criss-crossed with pitted steel bars, provides the only source of light and ventilation in the cell. Standing on the edge of the wooden bunk you are able to peer through the bars at an alleyway that runs along the rear of the building. But without your weapons, or any other means of dislodging the bars, you cannot hope to escape this way.</p>
- <p>An hour later you hear your captors laughing in the corridor outside. A key rattles in the lock and the cell door swings back to reveal a barrel-chested clansman, clad in a suit of black leather, which is adorned with sharpened metal studs. He fixes you with his small, bloodshot eyes, and sneers contemptuously.</p>
- <p>'You scoutin' for the Skulls, ain't you boy?' he says, his hand caressing the butt of a pistol that is holstered on his hip. 'That 'roach Alcatraz sent you here t'check us out, didn't he?' Resentful mutterings fill the corridor outside, urging the beady-eyed clansman to settle the matter by shooting you.</p>
- <p>'Do I look like a Skull?' you ask, defensively.</p>
- <p>'Maybe not,' he growls, 'but If you ain't a Skull, what you doing nosin' around Albany?'</p>
- <p>You choose your words with care, managing to convince the clansman and his cohorts that you are a loner, desperately short of food and water, who ran across their town by chance and decided to enter in search of supplies. The clansman, who calls himself Manhattan, seems impressed by your story and invites you to join his gang, which is known as the 'Kickers'. You have little option but to accept his invitation in the hope that once you are released from the cell you will be able to escape.</p>
- <p>'Good!' snarls Manhattan. He informs his men of your decision and orders them to make preparations for 'the Rite'. When you ask what 'the Rite' is, he narrows his eyes and sniggers. 'You must earn the right to become a Kicker,' he says, grimly. 'You must prove to us that you are worthy.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as Cutter has the engine running smoothly and everyone is back on board the bus, you return to your roadster and lead them west to Weatherford.</p>
- <p>As the afternoon wears on, the rays of the sun cast a blood-red hue on the surrounding landscape. Ahead, the freeway cuts a straight line due west, towards the high peaks of the Edwards Plateau that pierce the horizon like a row of sharpened flints, jagged and blue. You stare into the distance, trying to relax and not think about the dangers you have faced today, or the unknown perils that lie ahead.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>An hour later you catch sight of Weatherford and signal the convoy to stop. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Despite the delays, the convoy is making better time than expected, and with at least an hour of light still remaining, it is decided that it would be best to press on to the next town and make camp there overnight.</p>
- <p>You are finishing your food when suddenly Pop Ewell calls to everyone to hurry to the bus. He has located a broadcast on his CB radio set, and he is as excited as a youngster on Christmas morning. 'Listen to this,' he says, holding up the earphones. A faint call sign can be heard above the crackle of static, broadcasting the same message repeatedly: 'Radio K.L.F.M. Mineral Wells<ch.ellips/> Radio K.L.F.M. Mineral Wells<ch.ellips/>'</p>
- <p>'That's a town about twenty-five miles northwest o' here,' says Cutter, scratching his scalp. 'It's not where we're planned on headin' but it would be worth checking out.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to volunteer to go to Mineral Wells and investigate the source of the radio broadcast, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you choose to ignore the broadcast and insist that the convoy continues along its chosen route, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets whistle across the open ground, hitting the side of the bus with a ringing whine. Silhouetted against the skyline, the convoy makes an easy target for whoever is firing at you from the town. Anxious for the safety of the colony, you search for cover and see a shallow gully away to your right. Immediately you steer the convoy towards it. The sides of the depression hide the vehicles from view and enable you to bypass Westbrook safely and continue along the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, Kate examines a package she has removed from the saddle-bag. It is about the size of a man's shoe, covered with a shiny black plastic wrapping, and has a keypad and timer attached to its side.</p>
- <p>'Well, it looks like we got ourselves one mighty big fire-cracker here,' she says, offering it to you for inspection.</p>
- <p>'What is it?' you ask.</p>
- <p>'About seven pounds of military grade Zevatec explosive; enough to make a hole the size of this lake.'</p>
- <p>'That's some fire-cracker!' you reply, uneasily.</p>
- <p>'Don't worry, it's safe,' she assures you, taking the explosive from your trembling hands. 'I saw the Lions use this stuff in Oklahoma. It's as stable as clay until you prime and time it, then<ch.ellips/> boom! I think I'll hang on to it. It could come in useful.' She slips the Zevatec into her bag and then walks back towards the lake.</p>
- <p>'C'mon Cal,' she says. 'We'd better hustle that water. When that scout gets back to the Lions, Mad Dog's gonna be hot on our heels.'</p>
- <p>You fill the containers and hurry back to Sweetwater as fast as you can. When you tell Uncle Jonas what has happened at the lake, he cancels the food search and recalls everyone to the bus. As soon as all are safely aboard, you head back onto the freeway and begin the sixty-six mile journey to Big Spring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you drive through the centre of the town, your nerves like coiled springs as you scour every inch of the ruins for some sign of life. Having reached the far side of Denton and seen nothing untoward, you decide to turn your car around and head back towards the convoy. Then you hear the sound of motorcycle engines being kicked into life, and suddenly three bikes burst out of a wooden building near the centre of the town and come racing towards you, their riders whooping like Red Indians. All three machines are carrying pillion passengers who are armed with an assortment of weapons. As the first bike draws level, its passenger gets ready to leap into the seat beside you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your current Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If your total is now 0-10, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull your T-shirt up to cover your nose and mouth before venturing out into the storm. Visibility is less than five yards and, with the dust constantly gusting into your eyes, you must rely heavily on your sense of hearing for some indication of the child's location. Repeatedly you call out her name, hoping she will reply, yet all you hear is the incessant howling of the wind.</p>
- <p>A wide avenue leads you to a baseball park on the edge of the school grounds. For a few seconds the wind drops and you are able to see a small grocery store on the other side of the avenue, its front door hanging off its hinges. You can make out a thin, faint sound coming from inside the store.</p>
- <p>You run towards the entrance, eager to get inside before the wind picks up and you lose sight of the building altogether. The stench of rotting food assails your nostrils the moment you enter the store, making your stomach churn, but you force yourself to ignore it and continue your search. You call Maria's name and hear the sound again: it is coming from behind the cellar door. In the eerie half-light you find the latch and lift it. 'Don't be afraid, Maria. It's Cal,' you say, hoping to reassure and comfort the girl, but when you push open the door it is not little Maria who greets you.</p>
- <p>A seething flood of squealing rats swarm out of the doorway and break like a wave against your feet. You scream in shocked surprise and drag yourself onto a nearby counter as the ravenous rodents run amok. Most of the pack ignore you, but there are a few that have developed a taste for human flesh, and determinedly they claw their way up the counter in an effort to get at your legs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rat Pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a rush of wind, like a sound of a whip before it cracks, then something tightens around your body, pinning your arms to your sides. Fear wells up inside when you realize that you have been lassoed. Desperately you struggle to grab the rope that is biting into your flesh, but you are pulled roughly to the ground before you can break free.</p>
- <p>Cursing wildly, you blink the dust from your eyes in time to see a scrawny youth advancing towards you, his hands tugging and shortening the rope to maintain his hold on you. He is dressed in tattered buckskin, and his cheeks and forehead are painted with coloured stripes. His strange appearance reminds you of books you read when you were young; books with pictures of Red Indian braves who fought cowboys of the old West. The youth gives a warbling scream and more of his kind appear, all of them dressed in similar Red Indian costumes. With howls of delight they jump on you, take your missile and close combat weapons (erase these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), and hold your arms securely behind your back while the youth retrieves his lasso. Then, without a word of explanation, they drag you to the centre of the street and tie you to the totem pole.</p>
- <p>The sound of a car horn echoes in the distance and your captors cease their whooping. The moment the vehicle glides into view, they throw themselves to their knees and bow their heads devoutly. Open-mouthed, you stare at the approaching car, scarcely able to believe your eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The harsh staccato of the biker's machine pistol fills your ears and a starburst of pain explodes in your chest and head. Darkness engulfs you as you tumble to the ground, cut down by a deadly swathe of hollow-nosed bullets.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey end here at Santo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect302-1-foot" idref="sect302-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire smashes the window and hits the Maverick rider in the upper chest, killing him instantly.<a id="sect302-1" idref="sect302-1-foot" class="footnote" /> With the Molotov cocktail still gripped in his hand, his lifeless body tumbles from the motorcycle and hits the road with terrific force. There is a flash as the bottle disintegrates, then his body and the bike are consumed by a ball of roaring flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you had suspected, the spy was a city gang member, a scout for the Arlington Vipers judging by the snake tattoo that encircles his throat. You have encountered many from this gang during the past few months; they often led night raids on the DC1 settlement at McKinney.</p>
- <p>You roll the dead scout over onto his chest and quickly search through his rucksack and pockets. You discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Two Knives (2)</li>
- <li>Pistol (containing three rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Mirror</typ></li>
- <li>Enough food for two Meals</li>
- <li>Enough pain killers for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li>Water Canteen</li>
- <li>Enough water for one Drink (1/2 pint)</li>
- <li>Five rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Two rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Telescope</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">To return to the convoy and continue with the crossing, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before venturing out into the storm, all three of you turn your transceivers to the same frequency so that you can remain in radio contact with each other throughout the search. Uncle Jonas also possesses a handset, and he selects his to transmit a signal on another frequency. By selecting that channel, and monitoring its signal strength, you should be able to find your way back to the school.</p>
- <p>The three of you decide to split up and search different areas, thereby maximizing your chances of finding Maria quickly. The school building will have prevented her from wandering to the south, leaving three directions in which to search: north, west and east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to search to the north, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to search to the west, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you decide to search to the east, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A scrawny old man, dressed in an assortment of evil-smelling rags, sits cross-legged beside the fire. He pokes at the crackling flames with the handle of an old branding iron, and mumbles continuously and incoherently under his breath. At your approach, he raises his eyes and stares at your gun, yet you sense that it does not worry him unduly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>A scrawny old man, dressed in an assortment of evil-smelling rags.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="581" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="581" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'Saw your lights on the road,' he croaks, a toothy smile cracking several layers of dirt that have built up around his nose and mouth. 'Said to m'self, those folks will come a' callin'. Best whup up a real larrupin' meal to make 'em feel right welcome.' He jabs his metal rod into the fire and spears the blackened remains of a large rat. Proudly he holds it up and nods enthusiastically, as if he were about to serve you a prime T-bone steak. Your stomach turns when he offers you the charred carcass. You refuse politely.</p>
- <p>'You gone an' broked down, ain't you boy?' he says, pointing at the convoy on the highway below. 'What exactly's the problem? You never know, maybe I kin help you out. You'd not be the first folks that ol' Mountain Goat'd set right.'</p>
- <p>Half-heartedly you tell the old hermit about the breakdown, suspecting that he is just wasting your time. When you have finished, he smiles once more, and taps the side of his nose with a greasy forefinger. 'I know just where you can lay y'hands on the part you need to fix that ol' bus o' yours,' he says, smugly.</p>
- <p>'Where?' you reply.</p>
- <p>'If you agree to take me with you, I'll tell you where. Is it a deal?'</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you agree to his proposition, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you refuse it, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dodge aside, your lightning reflexes saving you from the gunman's bullets, and then leap towards his chest. You are determined to wrestle him to the ground before he has a chance to reload his pistol and fire again.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Belushi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the determination of your attack, increase your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself down, your hand reaching automatically for a weapon even as you hit the ground. Then you roll over and over towards your car and take cover behind the engine compartment. Now the street is silent once more. With the blood pounding in your ears you force yourself to listen for a sound that will betray the whereabouts of your hidden attacker.</p>
- <p>'He's in the drugstore!' shouts Long Jake, his voice drawing another burst of fire from a building directly opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rest the butt of your pistol on the side of the auto wreck and, as the enemy vehicle speeds nearer, you cock the hammer and focus your aim at the driver's head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If your total score is now 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If your total score is now 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the group draws closer you notice several things about them that stir your curiosity. The dogs look much larger than ordinary alsatians, and great flecks of white foam drip from their jaws as they tug and snap repeatedly at their heavy chain leashes. By contrast, the two handlers appear painfully thin and gaunt, the skin of their hands and faces unnaturally grey despite the burning desert sun.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Suddenly the handlers see you and release the chain leashes. With a rasping scream, they command the dogs to attack and immediately the pack obeys.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick back the safety catch and automatically check to see that the 'F' marker is showing. Then you slide the barrel under the thorny bush and take aim at the clansman's chest.</p>
- <p>Add your Shooting skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If your total score is now 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch beneath the window and listen to the voices of the two men inside the diner. They think that you are still hiding behind your car, and you hear them speculating as to whether or not you are wounded. You have the element of surprise and you decide to use it to your advantage by launching a sudden attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to enter the diner by the rear door, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you choose to enter the diner by the front door, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a brief conference with Uncle Jonas and the others, they agree to wait here at the junction while you go off and scout the bridge at Lakeside Village. If it proves safe, you will return and lead them across.</p>
- <p>It takes you less than five minutes to reach Lakeside Village and, to your relief, you find it deserted. However, your hopes of an easy crossing are dashed: the bridge across the Trinity no longer exists<ch.emdash/>it collapsed several years ago.</p>
- <p>You are preparing to turn back when you notice an old school bus, almost identical to the colony's vehicle, lying on its side amid the rubble of a derelict building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to investigate the old bus, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you decide to ignore it and return to the convoy, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land on the boarding platform and manage to grab the handrails to prevent yourself from falling backwards out of the door. Then you pull yourself up the short flight of steps towards the driver's seat, where Cutter is locked in a vicious struggle with a blond-haired Maverick, who is trying desperately to wrestle the wheel from his hands.</p>
- <p>As you approach, the Maverick releases Cutter, spins around and tries to grab you by the throat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>The Maverick spins around and tries to grab you by the throat.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="587" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="587" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Emteevee:</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman collapses at your feet, his fingers clasping the fatal wound that you have dealt him. You pick up his Meat Hook (2), which lies nearby, swallowing uneasily as you inspect its razor-sharp tip (if you wish to keep this weapon, remember to record it on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>). You are about to search his body when you hear the mob approaching the warehouse door. Quickly you run to the far side of the building and escape through a door that leads to a deserted passage. At the end of the passage you discover a derelict timber yard where, behind a stack of rotten fencing posts, you crouch, waiting for the chance to slip out of Albany. While you are lying low, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way back to the convoy, aware that less than a few hours of daylight remain. Cutter and Uncle Jonas greet your return with a nod and a wave, both of them itching to get underway. Quickly you climb into your roadster, switch on the ignition and lead them single file onto the southbound carriageway of Freeway 35.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A blow to the back of your legs sends you sprawling across the bodies of your two slain enemies: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You drag yourself to your feet and, as you turn, you see the grinning face of the youth whom you encountered earlier, who tried in vain to lasso you. He reaches for his revolver, which is tucked into his belt, but before he can point and fire, you lash out with your foot and send it spinning from his hand. He screams in frustration, then dives at you, closing his fingers around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mosquito</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swerve aside as the clansman empties his machine pistol in one long burst of fire. Most of the bullets either penetrate the trunk or pass harmlessly over the car, due to the speed of your reactions. In frustrated anger the biker hurls his empty weapon at you, but that too misses you by a wide mark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you watch the town shrinking in your rear-view mirror, the shock of your encounter, especially the death of Long Jake, makes you shiver despite the burning midday heat. 'D'you know those guys?' you ask, anxious to make some sense of the situation.</p>
- <p>'Yeah,' replies the girl, her voice shaky, 'though not by choice.'</p>
- <p>As you race back along the highway to McKinney, the girl, whose name is Kate Norton, tells you about the events leading up to your meeting. She comes from Kansas City and is one of the lucky few who have managed to survive there since the holocaust. A month ago her colony was attacked and wiped out by a gang of motorcycle renegades called 'the Lions'. Their leader, who calls himself Mad Dog Michigan, took a liking to her and spared her life. He was once a high-ranking HAVOC agent who had escaped from Pontiac Deep Pen near Detroit, and he and his gang, most of whom were also HAVOC escapees, were heading for the Fort Hood Military Reserve near Killeen, the largest armoury in the whole of the United States.</p>
- <p>'He hopes to find enough weapons and ammunition there to equip the other HAVOC clans who are in control of cities all along the eastern seaboard. Once he's armed his army he'll take over the rest of the country,' she says, her blue eyes brimming with tears. 'Three days ago the Lions reached Oklahoma City. They were desperate for food, so Mad Dog decided to camp there and forage the surrounding area. Until then they'd always been kept closely guarded, but while most of them were away I managed to steal a bike and escape. I was beginning to think I'd made it. I was wrong. I ran out of fuel just north of Sherman and had to ditch the bike. I met up with your friend this morning when he walked into town. Soon after he'd told me all about you and your colony and your plans to head west, those guys back there arrived. Mad Dog sent them to find me.' She pauses to wipe her tears and brush the tangle of windswept blonde hair away from her beautiful face.</p>
- <p>'I'm really sorry about what happened to Long Jake. It's all my fault.'</p>
- <p>'Don't blame yourself,' you say, trying to console her. 'It's over now. Once we get back to DC1 and take off for Big Spring, Mad Dog and his gang will be just a bad memory.'</p>
- <p>'I hope you're right, Cal,' she says, unconvinced.</p>
- <p>'Sure I'm right. Killeen is south o' here an' we're headin' west. He'll miss us by miles.'</p>
- <p>'Maybe,' she replies, her voice wavering and hesitant, 'but there's something else you ought to know.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the Colorado River as it wends its tortuous course south. The level of the water is very low, but the sheer banks dash all hope of fording this once-mighty river.</p>
- <p>All the smaller bridges south of Colorado City are no longer standing. An hour slips past, and you are just about to turn around and rejoin the others, when you happen upon a section of the bank that slopes gently towards the river. You stop the car and start walking towards it, hopefully. Standing at the water's edge, you see that the river is unusually dark. You decide to test its depth and begin to wade across, but you have taken less than a dozen steps and the water is already up to your chin. Sadly you return to the bank.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your Field Craft and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If your total score is now 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect320-1-foot" idref="sect320-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pump a cartridge into the breach and take aim at the leading dog. You fire as it leaps, the full force of your shot catching it squarely in the chest.<a id="sect320-1" idref="sect320-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Its lifeless body somersaults backwards into the rest of the pack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to fire a second round at the rabid dogs, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have run out of ammunition, or choose not to fire a second round, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are soon swallowed up in the network of narrow alleyways, and are able to shake off the few clansmen who attempted to pursue you. Eventually you emerge onto a wider street that is lined with dilapidated stores. Rather than take the risk of staying on the street, you decide to hide in one of these buildings and wait until the heat dies down. Fortunately you choose a hardware store that still has a cache of stock hidden on the first floor, and you discover the following items that could prove useful:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Two Knives (2)</li>
- <li>1 Rifle</li>
- <li>Six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Enough food for two Meals</li>
- <li>Enough medical supplies for three Medi-kit units</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Goggles</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items be sure to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>From a window on the first floor, you watch as a large group of Indian clansmen pour out of an alley opposite. They divide into two groups and begin searching the adjoining street, seemingly convinced that you are still out in the open. Silently you crouch by the window, awaiting the chance to slip out of Cross Plains unseen. While you are lying low, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>It is dusk before you are able to escape from the town. With relief you discover that your roadster is still parked at the gas station where you left it, and quickly you climb in and accelerate away.</p>
- <p>When you reach Rising Star you find that the convoy is awaiting your return with trepidation. Because you are so long overdue, they feared that you had fallen foul of Mad Dog Michigan and his bikers. You tell them what happened to you in Cross Plains and everyone agrees that, with darkness almost upon you, it is too dangerous to continue.</p>
- <p>The night at Rising Star passes uneventfully, and at first light the convoy sets off cross-country towards Abilene. The arid, stony bed of Pecan Bayou provides excellent cover from the surrounding high ground and leads the convoy northwest, back towards Freeway 20. It is shortly after midday when you reach the freeway, from which you can see the outskirts of Abilene less than five miles distant.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dogs are gaining ground quickly and they will be upon you before you are able to jump into your roadster and escape. You turn to face them as they reach the edge of the highway, and a chill runs down your spine as you stare into their hungry, feral eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frozen by the terrifying sight of the car spinning towards your windshield, you fail to react quickly enough. The wreckage slams into the driving compartment of your roadster, killing you instantly.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey end here at Lake Worth.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You get to your feet and start off towards the platform at the centre of the bridge, weaving back and forth as you run in order to present the advancing clansmen with a difficult target. But you have covered barely twenty yards when the fatigue of your ordeal suddenly catches up with you. You cannot catch your breath and your legs feel like they are clothed in lead. You stumble and fall. For a while you crawl on your hands and knees, then stagger painfully to your feet as you near the platform. The colony screams encouragement from the other side of the river, inspiring you to greater effort, but suddenly a line of bullets cuts across your path and you feel a terrible pain in your back. Rapidly the pain fades, giving way to a numbness that spreads through the lower half of your body. Unable to feel your legs, you are helpless to prevent yourself from falling off the edge of the platform into the Colorado River.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly the sun dips below the horizon, relinquishing its reign to a full moon and a clear night sky. The landscape is shrouded in a ghostly twilight and, as the miles slip past, the temperature steadily drops.</p>
- <p>It takes a little over twenty minutes to reach Mineral Wells. It seems no different to a handful of other towns through which you have passed today: it is derelict, decayed and deserted. As you drive along the main street, you scan the rooftops in search of a radio mast, and, almost immediately, you discover what you seek. On the roof of a three-storey building at the end of the street is the tripod-like structure. The upper section of the mast has long since collapsed, but the remaining lower section is still intact, sufficient in length to carry a call-signal as far as Weatherford.</p>
- <p>Stopping outside the building, you fasten your jacket against the chill night air, then enter to find the dusty halls and offices of a commercial radio station awaiting you. In a studio at the top of the building you discover what you are looking for. Slumped over a control panel is the body of Doctor Drool, former ace DJ and anchor-man of Radio K.L.F.M. Beneath his skeletal hand is the button that controls the station call-sign, a transmission that has played continuously for the last eight years.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>Slumped over a control panel is the body of Doctor Drool, former ace DJ.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="587" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="587" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You use your CB radio to call the convoy and tell them what you have found. Then you cut the power to the control panel, pausing briefly to sign-off for the last time on behalf of the Doctor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to search the radio station, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you decide to return to the convoy without delay, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You freeze with the sudden realization that you are a sniper's target. Mentally you will your hands to turn the wheel, yet physically they refuse to respond. You see a second flash, brighter than the first, and feel something punch you hard in the chest. The bridge and the road ahead begin to spin before your eyes, and a terrifying numbness spreads from your chest to your limbs. Before your car slams into a pillar of the bridge and explodes in a brilliant ball of orange flames, you have already surrendered to death.</p>
- <p>Your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a squeal of tyres, you accelerate away, retracing your route along Freeway 20 towards the convoy. As you drive, you are haunted by images of the two Rad-vics that you encountered at the trench: the chilling memory of their gaunt, grey faces has awakened your deepest fears. The road crests a rise and you see the convoy parked less than a quarter of a mile away. The welcoming sight distracts you from your morbid thoughts, but the relief is to be short-lived.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>As you bring your roadster to a halt alongside the bus, you see Cutter standing on the roof, a pair of battered binoculars pressed to his eyes. 'Looks like we're goin' to have company real soon,' he says, staring at a large cloud of dust that is advancing towards Eastland from the northeast. 'I reckon there's over 100 bikes out there on the prairie, and they're all headin' this way. Looks like that Mad Dog Michigan decided not to go to Killeen after all!'</p>
- <p>'I think we should head for Cisco and lay low until they pass,' says Uncle Jonas, but he soon changes his mind when you tell him about your encounter at the trench.</p>
- <p>'Abilene would be safer,' says Kate, leaning out of a window of the bus. 'But we'll have to pass wide of Cisco to get there.'</p>
- <p>Cutter convenes a hasty conference to decide the best way to reach Abilene. The terrain in this area is too rocky to attempt a cross-country detour at speed, so you must use what little remains of the secondary highways in order to reach your goal. After studying the <a idref="map">map</a> and staring at the surrounding plain from the roof of the bus, you determine two possible routes: northwest via the town of Albany, or southwest via the town of Cross Plains. The colony is undecided as to which route would be best, and so, as convoy scout, the decision is left to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you decide to take the highway northwest to Albany, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you choose to take the southwest route through Cross Plains, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the muzzle flash of his rifle and hear the bullet as it whistles over your head. Then in the next instant you feel a tremendous jolt as your roadster hits the rifleman and sends his broken body spinning through the air. You brace yourself against the wheel, but Kate is thrown forwards against the dashboard and gashes her forehead. At first you fear that she is badly injured, but quickly she staunches the wound with dressings from her Medi-kit, and then reloads her empty shotgun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you set foot in the store, two hands reach out of the darkness, grab you by the jacket lapels and pull you away from the doorway. Immediately, there is a long burst of fire and a hail of bullets scythes the air where you were standing only moments before.</p>
- <p>'These ain't no ordinary punks,' growls Long Jake, peering cautiously over the edge of the bullet-shattered window frame. 'They're scouts for a Yankee gang that's headin' this way, looking to take over. They're a mite anxious to get their hands on her, too,' he says, nodding towards the girl who is crouching behind the store counter, her eyes wide with fright.</p>
- <p>'What do they want with her?' you ask, but before Long Jake can reply there is a flash and a deafening explosion. The store's rear door is blown inwards and a searing wave of heat and flying debris knocks you off your feet. Stunned by the blast, you rise unsteadily and reach for a weapon. A grey shape fills the rear entrance, its outline fuzzy in the smoke and dust that hovers there. Then the shape draws into focus and you see the silhouette of a tall man, lean and sinewy, his thin mouth set in a cruel sneer.</p>
- <p>'Look out!' screams Long Jake, as the figure leaps through the doorway, a shotgun held before him ready to fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current Shooting, Stealth and Perception points (when added together) total 8 or more, then add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total is now 0-3, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If it is 4-6, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger away from the nest, clutching your hand to your chest and cursing your bad luck. Then the horror of what has befallen you registers and frantically you search your Medi-kit for an ampoule of anti-toxin. Fear knots your stomach when you discover that it is the one medicament that you do not possess. The pain in your hand begins to fade, to be replaced by a numbness that spreads rapidly throughout your body. Soon you are completely paralysed and unable to drag yourself out of the blazing sun. In less than an hour you fall victim to heatstroke and lapse into an unconsciousness from which you never awaken.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here on the banks of the Colorado River.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinded by the sudden darkness, you fail to see the heavy machinery that is positioned just inside the doorway. You collide with it and gash your scalp: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you survived the injury, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch behind the wrecked car and watch as Kate disappears into the factory. Minutes later you see her face at a window on the top floor and notice the barrel of her gun resting on its ledge. Nervously you count the passing seconds, your eyes fixed on the road ahead.</p>
- <p>The first of the Lions appears: it is a motorcycle and sidecar. A lion's head flag flutters from an aerial fixed behind the rider's saddle, and a heavy-calibre machine gun is mounted in front of the chair. As soon as they see the tanker they open fire, sending a stream of tracer bullets arcing towards your position. As the fiery shells rip through your cover, you fight the urge to throw yourself down on the ground, and take aim at the approaching vehicle. You know that you must make your shot count, for if just one of the tracer shells were to pierce the tanker, it would ignite the fuel and blow it sky high.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect308">If the gun you are holding is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without taking your eyes off your target, you unsling your G-12, draw back its fixing bolt and flick the selector to burst-fire. Your enemy is reloading a fresh magazine, locking it in place with the heel of his palm, when he sees you. With a scream of fear, he attempts to get away from the open window as you let loose your first burst of fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If the total is now 0-6, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The evil-sounding laughter is cut short by a deafening roar as both barrels of a Browning Citori are discharged at the counter. The heavy loads rip through the front, bringing down most of the rickety shelves that line the back wall. A cascade of bottles and glasses rains down on your head, causing you further injury as you scurry towards the end of the counter: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Ahead, beneath the staircase, you see a door with an unlit sign above it that reads:</p>
- <signpost>EXIT<ch.emdash/>FIRE ESCAPE</signpost>
- <signpost>USE IN CASE OF EMERGENCY ONLY</signpost>
- <p>'I reckon this constitutes an emergency,' you mutter, as you get ready to break cover and run towards the door. Just as you are about to leave your hand brushes against the stock of a sawn-off shotgun that is lying on a shelf beneath the counter. Both hammers are cocked and the chamber tags show that both barrels are loaded.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to take the weapon, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you decide to ignore it, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Looks like you got your bath sooner than you expected,' you say, gently brushing aside a few tangled strands of blonde hair that are hanging down in front of her face.</p>
- <p>'That's the second time you've saved my life,' she says, sheepishly. 'It's getting to be a habit.' She smiles, holding you with her eyes as she kisses her own hand and touches it to your cheek. You feel drawn towards her and, as your lips meet and you feel the tenderness of her touch, it is as if nothing else in the world exists.</p>
- <p>The illusion of peace is shattered by a burst of gunfire. 'What the<ch.ellips/> ?' you cry, as bullets slap the water and punch a line of holes along the muddy shore.</p>
- <p>'Clansmen!' shouts Kate, pointing across the lake at two figures silhouetted against the cloudless sky. Quickly you grab her by the arm and run towards the cover of some rocks topped with thorny foliage, growing less than twenty yards away. The clansmen snigger as they raise their machine pistols to fire at your fleeing forms.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rotten wood splits and crumbles under the slightest pressure, enabling you to open the crate with your bare hands. Inside, you discover hundreds of square plastic tubs, bound together with tape into units of twelve. Sealing the whole consignment is a vast sheet of clear polythene<ch.emdash/>just what your uncle wanted! Using your hunting knife, you slit open the sheeting at the corners, remove it from the tubs and fold it away carefully for future use.</p>
- <p>The tubs themselves are each adorned with blue and white labels that display the letters: N a C l.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Perception skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If the total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At gunpoint you are led from the cell and taken across town to a broken-fenced corral around which the clansmen have gathered. This site is all that remains of the Albany Stockyards and Rodeo that once thrived here during the late 1990s. Its No. 1 enclosure is to be the place of your initiation into the Kicker clan.</p>
- <p>Lying on the ground at the centre of the corral is your Hunting Knife, and beyond it, leaning against the wooden rails of the corral, is your adversary. As punishment for a breach of clan discipline, Manhattan has chosen him to fight against you in 'the Rite'. It is a dubious honour, for he knows that his life will be forfeit if he fails.</p>
- <p>The rules of the initiation ceremony are simple. When Manhattan fires his pistol, you must both dash towards the knife. The one who reaches it first will then hold the advantage in the hand-to-hand combat that follows. The combat is to the death; only he who survives the fight will be declared a worthy clan member.</p>
- <p>The crowd grow silent and nervously you wait for Manhattan to fire. His shot rings out, and you launch yourself towards the centre of the corral.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- <description>The combat is to the death; you both launch yourself towards the centre of the corral.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="586" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="586" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the place where it enters the town, the surface of the freeway glitters as if it were covered with hundreds of tiny mirrors. You narrow your eyes to focus on these glimmering points of light, and a chill runs down your spine when you realize what they are. The highway is covered with metal spikes.</p>
- <p>You signal to the convoy to halt and then inform the other drivers<ch.emdash/>Cutter and Uncle Jonas<ch.emdash/>of what you have seen. 'We'll have to circle around this place,' says Uncle Jonas. 'We can't risk our tyres on this stretch o' road. According to that Rickenbacker guy, this land's now bandit territory.'</p>
- <p>'I bet they're responsible for spikin' the road,' says Cutter. 'It'll be gettin' dark soon an' I sure don't wanna be bushwhacked while changing tyres. Besides, we're gettin' real close to home. I'm sure we all'd like to make camp tonight in Big Spring.' You nod your agreement.</p>
- <p>The three of you decide to detour the town and pick up the freeway a few miles further on. You lead the convoy cross-country, but as you draw level with the town you hear the sound of gunfire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If your total is now 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the heavy Zeiss binoculars to your eyes and slowly scan the ruins. There is little to confirm your suspicions: rolling tumbleweed and the shimmering heat of early afternoon are the only movements you observe among the derelict remains of Denton. Then something catches your eye at the entrance to an alley near the centre of the town. Your pulse quickens when you recognize it. It is a haze of oily blue smoke<ch.emdash/>the exhaust fumes of a motorcycle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to enter Denton and take a closer look, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you decide to return to the convoy and warn them to avoid Denton, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect340-1-foot" idref="sect340-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have aimed too high and, as the window disintegrates, your gunfire passes harmlessly over the head of the Maverick rider.<a id="sect340-1" idref="sect340-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He hurls his fire-bomb, and screams of terror fill your ears as your people scramble across the seats in a desperate attempt to escape the blast. You hear a sharp crack as the bottle strikes the edge of a seat, then there is a brilliant flash of orange and yellow light as it smashes and bursts into flames.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If the number you have picked is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If the number is 3-9, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Don't be afraid, Maria,' you call. 'Cal's here.' You push open the door to the candy store and enter, half-expecting little Maria to come running towards you with open arms, but the greeting you receive is not at all what you had in mind. Two bearded men, dressed in rags and clutching wooden clubs, step out of the shadows.</p>
- <p>'Hello, Cal!' whines the taller of the two men, sarcastically. 'Have you come to rescue me?' Then, without warning, he swings his club at your head, forcing you to duck to avoid being knocked senseless.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Abilene Hobos</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of their attack, you are unable to make use of a close combat weapon during the first two rounds of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The overturned fuselage of an Amcorp DL-70, a wide-bodied military transport plane, blocks the entrance to this derelict air force base. Casually you swerve around the wreckage and drive across the perimeter fence, knocked flat by the same blast that destroyed the plane eight years ago. Cruising along the main runway, you cast your eye over the hangars and buildings that once serviced this base. Most have either collapsed or been wrecked by city gangs, but there are still a few that could be worth investigating.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to explore the control tower, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to investigate the stores, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The drive to Albany takes you across a rolling plain that once fed a million head of longhorn cattle. Now the once-lush grassland is a vast desert of parched and blistered earth, completely devoid of life. The town stands at the centre of this bald prairie, its battered wooden houses and stores clustered haphazardly in groups on either side of a single main street. You stop your car half a mile from the town and park it in the shade of an old farm building, before venturing into Albany on foot.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The first building that you see is the ruins of the Shackelford County Sheriff's office. Spent cartridge cases litter the ground around its entrance, marking the site of a recent gunfight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your current Stealth and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If your total score is now 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect344-1-foot" idref="sect344-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your bullet hits the clansman in the chest and knocks him clean off his feet.<a id="sect344-1" idref="sect344-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As he disappears from sight, his partner unleashes a long burst of fire that powders the scree behind you. When the firing stops, you raise your head and peer through the bushes, expecting to see your enemy reloading. Instead he discards his empty magazine and turns to run away. He has exhausted his ammunition and has decided to make his escape before you have a chance to return fire.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are sure that the coast is clear, you rise cautiously and help Kate to her feet. The sound of a motorcycle riding away into the distance reassures you that your ambusher has fled, and confidently you scramble up the slope and go to examine the body of the one who did not get away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you brake and spin the wheel in an attempt to avoid hitting the wreck, but your action causes the front brakes to overheat and seize. The tyres fail to grip on the loose stony surface and, with an ear-piercing screech, you slam sideways into the ambulance and turn over. The impact splits the gas tank wide open and a friction spark ignites the fuel, transforming your car in the blink of an eye into a huge, blazing fireball.</p>
- <p>Your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first thing you notice about the dingy cell is the solitary open window, criss-crossed with pitted steel bars, that provides the only source of light and ventilation. Standing on the edge of the wooden bunk, you are able to peer through the bars at an alleyway that runs along the rear of the building. The bars themselves are badly corroded and, after a few minutes' work, you are able to break and bend enough of them to enable you to escape.</p>
- <p>At the end of the alleyway you discover a derelict timber yard where, behind a stack of rotten fencing posts, you crouch, waiting for the chance to slip out of Albany. While you are lying low, you must take a drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the distance you see the sun resting on the peak of Signal Mountain, and you estimate that no more than an hour of daylight remains. Then a freeway mileage sign looms into view, its paint blistered and barely legible. You slow down and read:</p>
- <signpost>BIG SPRING 16 MLS</signpost>
- <p>The sign coaxes a cheer from those aboard the bus and renews your hopes of completing the first stage of your long journey west. A few miles further on you see another sign. This announces that you are approaching the town of Coahoma. With the memory of what happened at Westbrook still fresh in your mind, you decide to bring the convoy to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ> or a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ>, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect348-1-foot" idref="sect348-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your arm and fire your shotgun without aiming.<a id="sect348-1" idref="sect348-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The speed of your reflexes and the spread of the Double-A target load guarantee that your enemy will never point his pistol at anyone again.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>As the smoke clears, you see Cutter approach the gully and reload his gun as he stares over the edge at the lifeless bodies of your ambushers. You are soon joined by the others and together you search their bodies for useful items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect349-1-foot" idref="sect349-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have aimed too low: your gunfire hits the stone parapet of the roof, alerting the sniper to your position.<a id="sect349-1" idref="sect349-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Quickly he lifts his assault rifle, swings the barrel around towards the factory, and focuses on your window. You glimpse a muzzle flash a split-second before the ledge and frame are blown to pieces by a dozen high-velocity bullets.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If your total score is now 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seething with anger you watch as the remaining biker climbs astride his machine and kicks it into life. You rush forward in a brave but hopeless attempt to save Kate from being abducted: the Maverick clansman accelerates away before you can even get near. As you watch his fleeing form disappear into the night, you promise yourself that you will get Kate back, no matter what it takes. You run towards your roadster, determined to follow him and rescue Kate, but your plans are frustrated when the bus pulls up close by and Cutter shouts a warning. 'There's a whole mess o' lights headin' this way, Cal. I'm sure it's the Lions. We've got to move now or they'll catch us before we get inside Big Spring.' Reluctantly you agree with Cutter. It would be madness to drive alone into the Detroit Lions.</p>
- <p>The convoy enters the fortified gates of Big Spring and receives a rapturous welcome from the colonists of the settlement. The mood is celebratory, for your arrival marks the start of an alliance that is destined to grow stronger over the forthcoming months. You have completed the first stage of your difficult journey and, although your achievement is overshadowed by Kate's abduction, your mission is a success.</p>
- <p>For you, Cal Phoenix, champion and protector of Dallas Colony 1, the journey continues in Book 2 of the Freeway Warrior series, entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.02smr;">SLAUGHTER MOUNTAIN RUN</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Map of Central Texas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Melvyn Grant</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acskills.gif" width="386" height="123" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="308" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="accombat.gif" width="386" height="358" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
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-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acammo.gif" width="386" height="363" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acweapns.gif" width="386" height="383" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-<!--
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
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-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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--->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> any extra points gained through use of a close combat weapon.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> score of your enemy from your total. The resulting number is the Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio along the top of the chart and cross-reference it with the random number you have picked. (E indicates enemy's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. CP indicates Cal Phoenix's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from stage 3 until one combatant has zero <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or below, this is when he is declared dead.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>If the text offers the chance of taking evasive action instead of entering into combat, you may evade in the first round of combat or in any subsequent round.</li>
- <li>If you decide to evade after a round of combat, ignore all points lost by the enemy in that round: only Cal Phoenix loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
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- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
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- <data>
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- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="dtd">Dateline to Disaster</a>) Replaced <quote>training and</quote> with <quote>training, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="calstory">Cal's Story</a>) Replaced <quote>re-establish</quote> with <quote>reestablish</quote>, <quote>Denton county</quote> with <quote>Denton County</quote>, <quote>fuel, food or water</quote> with <quote>fuel, food, or water</quote>, and <quote>Tuscon colony</quote> with <quote>Tucson colony</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>if you pick a O</quote> with <quote>if you pick a 0</quote>, <quote>On pages 6 and 7 you will find an Action Chart</quote> with <quote>An Action Chart has been supplied</quote>, <quote>the Random Number Table at the back of this book</quote> with <quote>the Random Number Table</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote>survival skills</quote> with <quote>Survival Skills</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>For ease of use during play it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>map of Central Texas</quote> with <quote>Map of Central Texas</quote>, <quote>potassium iodine</quote> with <quote>potassium iodide</quote>, <quote>H.E. (High Explosive) GRENADE</quote> with <quote>HE (High Explosive) GRENADE</quote>, <quote>C.B. RADIO</quote> with <quote>CB RADIO</quote>, and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote>as <ch.plus/>1 If </quote> with <quote>as <ch.plus/>1. If </quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>are reduced to zero, at which point the one whose score is zero is declared dead.</quote> with <quote>are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead.</quote> and <quote>with a reduced ENDURANCE point score</quote> with <quote>with his ENDURANCE points possibly reduced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>syphoned</quote> with <quote>siphoned</quote>, and <quote>C.B. radio</quote> with <quote>CB radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Added missing period after <quote>Random Number Table</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>GEIGER COUNTER</quote>, <quote>ALTIMETER</quote> and <quote>RADIATION SUIT</quote> with initial capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gunner</quote> with <quote>machine gunner</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>indian</quote> with <quote>Indian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>under way</quote> with <quote>underway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>indian</quote> with <quote>Indian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>N a C l</quote> with <quote>NaCl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>dislodgng</quote> with <quote>dislodging</quote>, <quote>Skull,'</quote> with <quote>Skull?'</quote>, and <quote>'the Kickers'</quote> with <quote>the 'Kickers'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>thunderbird</quote> with <quote>Thunderbird</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>south-west</quote> with <quote>southwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect65">65</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. Radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) Replaced <quote>First Aid Box</quote> with <quote>first aid box</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>) Replaced <quote>'the Mavericks'</quote> with <quote>the 'Mavericks'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>shooting skill</quote> with <quote>Shooting skill</quote> and <quote>(minimum - one round; maximum - four rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. transceiver</quote> with <quote>CB transceiver</quote>, and <quote>C.B. Radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. Radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>needin</quote> with <quote>needin'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Replaced <quote>DISTRIBUTOR CAP</quote>, <quote>CONDENSER</quote>, <quote>GAS MODIFIER</quote>, <quote>OIL PLUG</quote>, <quote>FAN BELT</quote> with initial capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>It it is 7-9</quote> with <quote> If it is 7-9</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>shouting :</quote> with <quote>shouting: </quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gunner</quote> with <quote>machine gunner</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>GEIGER COUNTER</quote>, <quote>ALTIMETER</quote> and <quote>RADIATION SUIT</quote> with initial capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced <quote>H.E. Grenade</quote> with <quote>HE Grenade</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. Radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum - one round; maximum - six rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: six rounds)</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>feet first</quote> with <quote>feet-first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replaced <quote>key-in</quote> with <quote>key in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Added missing period after <quote>(0 equals 10)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>Water Canteen, containing</quote> with <quote>Water Canteen containing</quote> and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>gutteral</quote> with <quote>guttural</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum - one round; maximum - five rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one burst; maximum: five bursts)</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gunner</quote> with <quote>machine gunner</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Replaced <quote>feet first</quote> with <quote>feet-first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Replaced <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>south-west</quote> with <quote>southwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>feet first</quote> with <quote>feet-first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>( with</quote> with <quote>(with</quote>, <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>, <quote>Water Canteen, containing</quote> with <quote>Water Canteen containing</quote>, and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>) Replaced <quote>assess</quote> with <quote>assesses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Replaced text based number puzzle with illustration.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Replaced <quote>red indian</quote> with <quote>Red Indian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>) Replaced <quote>take its toll of those</quote> with <quote>take its toll on those</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. Radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Replaced <quote>Ammo pouch</quote> with <quote>Ammo Pouch</quote> and <quote>once sophisticated</quote> with <quote>once-sophisticated</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>) Replaced <quote>rear view mirror</quote> with <quote>rear-view mirror</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>de-activates</quote> with <quote>deactivates</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>anti-biotics</quote> with <quote>antibiotics</quote> and <quote>H.E. Grenade</quote> with <quote>HE Grenade</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Replaced <quote>rope</quote> with <quote>Rope</quote> and <quote>feet first</quote> with <quote>feet-first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>) Replaced <quote>Erath country</quote> with <quote>Erath County</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>womped</quote> with <quote>whomped</quote> and <quote>come 'an pay</quote> with <quote>come an' pay</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>) Replaced <quote>de-activates</quote> with <quote>deactivates</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gunner</quote> with <quote>machine gunner</quote> and <quote>hellava</quote> with <quote>helluva</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>south-west</quote> with <quote>southwest</quote> (x2).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gun fire</quote> with <quote>machine gun fire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>red indian</quote> with <quote>Red Indian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) Replaced <quote>out-distance</quote> with <quote>outdistance</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Replaced <quote>Three rounds of 12-gauge shotgun ammunition</quote> with <quote>Three rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>) Replaced <quote>and 'll</quote> with <quote>and'll</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced <quote>breathlessly:'Set </quote> with <quote>breathlessly: 'Set </quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced <quote>across the bridge. at a run.</quote> with <quote>across the bridge at a run.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233">233</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum - one round; maximum - four rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds)</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. Radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) Replaced <quote>feet first</quote> with <quote>feet-first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. radio</quote> with <quote>CB Radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gunner</quote> with <quote>machine gunner</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">253</a>) Started a new paragraph for Cutter's speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced text based number puzzle with illustration.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>) Replaced <quote>pistol</quote> with <quote>Pistol</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>Cmon</quote> with <quote>C'mon</quote> and <quote>Comanche county</quote> with <quote>Comanche County</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>camp fire</quote> with <quote>campfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) Replaced <quote>water canteen</quote> with <quote>Water Canteen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Replaced <quote>auto-wreck</quote> with <quote>auto wreck</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>camp fire</quote> with <quote>campfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>'the Kickers'</quote> with <quote>the 'Kickers'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B. radio</quote> with <quote>CB radio</quote> and <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>red indian</quote> with <quote>Red Indian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>red indian</quote> with <quote>Red Indian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>fininshed</quote> with <quote>finished</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>ain't you' boy?'</quote> with <quote>ain't you boy?'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>rear view mirror</quote> with <quote>rear-view mirror</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect321">321</a>) Replaced <quote>indian</quote> with <quote>Indian</quote> and <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>C.B.</quote> with <quote>CB radio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>, <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote> (x2), and <quote>south-west</quote> with <quote>southwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>set in cruel sneer.</quote> with <quote>set in a cruel sneer.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>letters,</quote> with <quote>letters:</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Replaced <quote>bushwacked</quote> with <quote>bushwhacked</quote>, <quote>Rickenbaker</quote> with <quote>Rickenbacker</quote> and <quote>fusilage</quote> with <quote>fuselage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>) Replaced <quote>Shackelford county sheriff's office</quote> with <quote>Shackelford County Sheriff's office</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>,<a idref="sect42">42</a>,<a idref="sect96">96</a>,<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>zig-zag</quote> with <quote>zigzag</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>,<a idref="sect24">24</a>,<a idref="sect80">80</a>,<a idref="sect105">105</a>,<a idref="sect117">117</a>,<a idref="sect177">177</a>,<a idref="sect222">222</a>,<a idref="sect242">242</a>,<a idref="sect296">296</a>,<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>,<a idref="sect73">73</a>,<a idref="sect85">85</a>,<a idref="sect138">138</a>,<a idref="sect163">163</a>,<a idref="sect229">229</a>,<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>Backpack items</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>,<a idref="sect162">162</a>,<a idref="sect205">205</a>,<a idref="sect218">218</a>,<a idref="sect269">269</a>,<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Replaced <quote>Weapons list</quote> with <quote>Weapons List</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>,<a idref="sect78">78</a>,<a idref="sect103">103</a>,<a idref="sect105">105</a>,<a idref="sect127">127</a>,<a idref="sect144">144</a>,<a idref="sect160">160</a>,<a idref="sect169">169</a>,<a idref="sect173">173</a>,<a idref="sect181">181</a>,<a idref="sect188">188</a>,<a idref="sect196">196</a>,<a idref="sect213">213</a>,<a idref="sect295">295</a>,<a idref="sect297">297</a>,<a idref="sect299">299</a>,<a idref="sect303">303</a>,<a idref="sect315">315</a>,<a idref="sect321">321</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="calstory">Cal's Story</a>,<a idref="sect105">105</a>,<a idref="sect160">160</a>,<a idref="sect257">257</a>) Replaced <quote>'the Day'</quote> with <quote>'The Day'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Added missing period after <quote>from your total</quote>. Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>Combat Results Table</quote> with <quote>Close Combat Results Table</quote>, and <quote>zero ENDURANCE points</quote> with <quote>zero ENDURANCE points or below</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) This is the correct answer to the keypad puzzle in <a idref="sect152">Section 152</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch (if any).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) This is the correct answer to the keypad puzzle in <a idref="sect255">Section 255</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect16">Section 16</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect30">Section 30</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect68">Section 68</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect89">Section 89</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect103">Section 103</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect133">Section 133</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect162">Section 162</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect188">Section 188</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect210">Section 210</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect227">Section 227</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect243">Section 243</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect256">Section 256</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect286">Section 286</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect305">Section 305</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect313">Section 313</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect325">Section 325</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect337">Section 337</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map Of Central Texas</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="calstory">Cal's Story</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect22">Section 22</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect26">Section 26</a></li>
- <li><a idref="calstory">Cal's Story</a></li>
- <li><a idref="calstory">Cal's Story</a></li>
- <li><a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a></li>
- <li></li>
- <li><a idref="calstory">Cal's Story</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect135">Section 135</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect343">Section 343</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect17">Section 17</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect2">Section 2</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect152">Section 152</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect255">Section 255</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-</gamebook>
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-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.15 2007/05/12 17:56:56 jonathan.blake
-minor footnote issue
-
-Revision 1.14 2007/05/11 23:28:05 jonathan.blake
-Fixed illustration dimensions
-
-Revision 1.13 2007/05/10 23:24:50 jonathan.blake
-Final (I mean it this time) changes prior to republication
-
-Revision 1.12 2007/05/07 22:53:43 jonathan.blake
-special thanks and fixing illustration dimensions
-
-Revision 1.11 2007/02/02 20:13:38 jonathan.blake
-Fixing a few more br elements
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-Revision 1.10 2007/02/02 20:02:19 jonathan.blake
-Corrections for all pending errata, further updates to latest DTD
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-Revision 1.9 2006/12/07 01:38:13 jonathan.blake
-Removing superfluous footnote data
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-Revision 1.8 2006/12/06 23:31:50 jonathan.blake
-Correcting title.
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-Revision 1.7 2006/12/06 23:23:41 jonathan.blake
-Correct publication date.
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-Revision 1.6 2006/12/06 23:20:42 jonathan.blake
-Minor corrections.
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-Revision 1.5 2006/11/27 18:25:09 jonathan.blake
-Minor corrections
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-Revision 1.4 2006/11/27 18:14:35 jonathan.blake
-Modernizations by Simon.
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-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
-Adding Paul Haskell as an Illustration Transcriptionist
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-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 00:53:10 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-Revision 1.9 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
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-Revision 1.8 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
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-Revision 1.7 2002/12/04 06:21:41 jblake
-Cleanup.
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-Revision 1.6 2002/11/12 18:49:50 jblake
-Fix of interbook links.
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-Revision 1.5 2002/11/10 05:40:15 jblake
-Fixed illustration issues and some minor fixes.
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-Revision 1.4 2002/10/27 06:22:58 jblake
-Added errata and large illustrations' dimensions.
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-Revision 1.3 2002/10/27 03:05:01 jblake
-Added missing backmatter and did extensive validity corrections.
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-Revision 1.2 2002/10/27 00:11:59 jblake
-Update includes Jeff Dougan's XMLizations.
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-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:33:16 jblake
-Initial revision
-//////////////////////////
-
-Change log:
-- Updated publication date to 2002/10/24
-- Inserted information for Gary Chalk primary illustrations
-- made substitutions of &emdash; and &endash;
-- inserted code for secondary illustrations in text and front matter, with all set to 60 x 60 pixels, as I don't have a good way to get size measurements on them here. (weapons.gif set to 180 x 180).
-- Deleted "Rules Clarifications" section
-- inserted footnotes (except for that in section 200, which is now superfluous)
-- replaced special characters with escape sequences
-
-To do:
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--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Fire on the Water</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">
- <line>Joe Dever</line>
- <line>Illustrated by Gary Chalk</line>
- </creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.gary.chalk.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2007</year><month>5</month><day>11</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>Last of the Kai Lords. Bitter war rages through your homeland as the evil Darklords of the west lay siege to the capital. The King has sent you on a desperate journey to retrieve the only power in Magnamund that can save your people: the Sommerswerd, the sword of the sun. Ahead of you lie terrible dangers<ch.emdash/>ferocious sea-storms, the tunnel of Tarnalin, and the ghostly death-hulks of Vonotar the Traitor. But only you can save your land from the devastation of the Darklords.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">
- <line>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.</line>
- <line>Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.</line>
- </rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>
- <line>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.</line>
- <line>Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.</line>
- <line>Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</line>
- </p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">For Titus, Ben Ryan and Victoria</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jason Gaerke</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Jonathan Blake</line>
- <line>Paul Haskell</line>
- <line>Simon Osborne</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Jonathan Blake</line>
- <line>Jeff Dougan</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>JC Alvarez (action charts)</line>
- <line>Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)</line>
- <line>Michael Hahn (map)</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Simon Osborne (Sections 1<ch.endash/>210 and 246<ch.endash/>350)</line>
- <line>Tony Wrigley (Sections 211<ch.endash/>245)</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Mike Feldman</line>
- <line>Ingo Kl<ch.ouml/>cker</line>
- <line>Mark Laird</line>
- <line>LeRoy McSwain</line>
- <line>Simon Osborne</line>
- <line>Thomas Wolmer</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Tony Lenzo, Laurence O<ch.apos/>Toole, and Keith Sheldon</dd>
- </dl>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the northern land of Sommerlund, it has been the custom for many centuries to send the children of the Warrior Lords to the monastery of Kai. There they are taught the skills and disciplines of their noble fathers.</p>
- <p>In olden times, during the Age of the Black Moon, the Darklords waged war on Sommerlund. The conflict was a long and bitter trial of strength that ended in victory for the Sommlending at the great battle of Maakengorge. King Ulnar and the allies of Durenor broke the Darklord armies at the pass of Moytura and forced them back into the bottomless abyss of Maakengorge. Vashna, mightiest of the Darklords, was slain upon the sword of King Ulnar, called <quote>Sommerswerd</quote>, the sword of the sun. Since that age, the Darklords have vowed vengeance upon Sommerlund and the House of Ulnar.</p>
- <p>You are Lone Wolf, a young Kai initiate who was learning the secret skills of the Kai Lords. Two days ago, your peaceful country was plunged into war when a vast Darklord army suddenly invaded Sommerlund and completely destroyed the Kai Monastery. All the Kai Lords were in attendance for the feast of Fehmarn, and all were killed as the monastery was surrounded and destroyed, the walls collapsing in on the assembled company. You, the only Kai Lord to survive the massacre, vowed then to avenge their deaths. You knew your first task had to be to warn the King, for without the Kai Lords to lead her armies, your country, Sommerlund, would be unable to mobilize in time to drive the Darklords back.</p>
- <p>Your journey to the capital was perilous indeed. The enemy had overrun much of the country and were marching upon Holmgard, the capital itself. But despite the many dangers, you fought your way through to the capital and delivered your warning to the King<ch.apos/>s court. There you were greatly praised for your skill and bravery but told your mission was not complete: with the Kai Lords dead, there remained only one power in all of Magnamund that could save your people from the Darklords<ch.emdash/>the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <p>After the defeat of Vashna, the Sommerswerd had been bestowed upon the allies of Durenor as a mark of trust and allegiance that exists between the two kingdoms. In return, King Alin of Durenor gave Sommerlund a magnificent golden ring bearing the royal arms of Durenor. This ring is known as the Seal of Hammerdal. At that time, King Alin vowed that if ever the shadow of the west should rise again to threaten Sommerlund, Durenor would come to the aid of her ally.</p>
- <p>The King has given you the Seal of Hammerdal. Your quest is to travel to Durenor to fetch the Sommerswerd back. But meanwhile the enemy have broken through the outer defences to the capital and are preparing to besiege the city wall. As Captain D<ch.apos/>Val of the King<ch.apos/>s Guard leads you to the Royal Armoury to equip you for your mission, the King<ch.apos/>s words keep coming back to you:</p>
- <p><quote>Forty days, Lone Wolf. We have strength to stand against them for only forty days.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord you have developed fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it <!--ERRTAG-RE-10688-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-10688--> the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points <!--ERRTAG-RE-12811-->fall to zero or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12811-->, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never go above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed Book 1 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you will already have your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a> which you can now carry over with you to Book 2. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items that you held at the end of Book 1 and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>Through your experiences in <bookref series="lw" book="01fftd">Book 1</bookref> you have learned new skills, and you may choose one extra <a idref="discplnz">Kai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Now read the <a idref="equipmnt">section on equipment</a> for Book 2 carefully.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over the centuries, the Kai monks have mastered the skills of the warrior. These skills are known as the Kai Disciplines, and they are taught to all Kai Lords. You have learnt only five of the skills listed below. The choice of which five skills these are, is for you to make. As all of the Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your perilous quest, pick your five with care. The correct use of a Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your five Disciplines, enter them in the Kai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="camflage">
- <meta><title>Camouflage</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Kai Lord to blend in with his surroundings. In the countryside, he can hide undetected among trees and rocks and pass close to an enemy without being seen. In a town or city, it enables him to look and sound like a native of that area, and can help him to find shelter or a safe hiding place.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Camouflage</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hunting">
- <meta><title>Hunting</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Lord will never starve in the wild. He will always be able to hunt for food for himself except in areas of wasteland and desert. The skill also enables a Kai Lord to be able to move stealthily when stalking his prey.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Hunting: no need for a Meal when instructed to eat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sixthsns">
- <meta><title>Sixth Sense</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Lord of imminent danger. It may also reveal the true purpose of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tracking">
- <meta><title>Tracking</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to make the correct choice of a path in the wild, to discover the location of a person or object in a town or city and to read the secrets of footprints or tracks.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Tracking</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="healing">
- <meta><title>Healing</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-<p>This Discipline can be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in combat. If you possess this skill you may restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to your total for every numbered section of the book you pass through in which you are not involved in combat. (This is only to be used after your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) Remember that your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> cannot rise above its original level.</p>
-
-<p>If you choose this skill write <quote>Healing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wepnskll">
- <meta><title>Weaponskill</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Kai monastery, each initiate is taught to master one type of weapon. If Weaponskill is to be one of your Kai Disciplines, pick a number in the usual way from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and then find the corresponding weapon from the list below. This is the weapon in which you have skill. When you enter combat carrying this weapon, you add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = Dagger</li>
- <li>1 = Spear</li>
- <li>2 = Mace</li>
- <li>3 = Short Sword</li>
- <li>4 = Warhammer</li>
- <li>5 = Sword</li>
- <li>6 = Axe</li>
- <li>7 = Sword</li>
- <li>8 = Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>9 = Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with a weapon does not mean you set out on the adventure carrying that particular weapon. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons in the course of your adventures. You cannot carry more than 2 weapons.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponskill in <ch.blankline/> +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points if this weapon carried</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindshld">
- <meta><title>Mindshield</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Darklords and many of the evil creatures in their command have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Kai Discipline of Mindshield prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindshield: no points lost when attacked by Mindblast</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mndblst">
- <meta><title>Mindblast</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This enables a Kai Lord to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used at the same time as normal combat weapons and adds two extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Not all the creatures encountered on this adventure will be harmed by Mindblast. You will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlknsp">
- <meta><title>Animal Kinship</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to communicate with some animals and to be able to guess the intentions of others.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindomtr">
- <meta><title>Mind Over Matter</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Discipline enables a Kai Lord to move small objects with his powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mind Over Matter</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 2 of Lone Wolf, you may add a further Kai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <bookref series="lw" book="03tcok">Book 3</bookref>. This additional skill, together with your five or six other skills and any Special Items that you have picked up in Books 1 and 2, may then be used in the next adventure of the Lone Wolf series which is called <cite><bookref series="lw" book="03tcok">The Caverns of Kalte</bookref></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guard Captain D<ch.apos/>Val leads you to the Royal Armoury where your green tunic and Kai cloak are taken from you to be repaired and cleaned. While you await their return, Captain D<ch.apos/>Val hands you a pouch of Gold for your journey. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you may enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (If you successfully completed <bookref series="lw" book="01fftd">Book 1</bookref>, you may add this sum to the total of any Crowns you may already possess.)</p>
- <p>On a large table in the centre of the armoury, a number of items have been laid out for your choice. You may take any two of the following:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Short Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Two Meals (Meals)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Chainmail Waistcoat (Special Items). This adds 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mail.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mail.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Healing Potion (Backpack Item). This can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total, when swallowed after combat You only have enough for one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Shield (Special Items) This adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in combat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="shield.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="shield.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Broadsword (Weapons)</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you are already carrying Weapons from <bookref series="lw" book="01fftd">Book 1</bookref>, you can take this opportunity to exchange one or both of them.</p>
- <p>List the two items you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You don<ch.apos/>t need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Short Sword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Food<ch.emdash/>placed in the Backpack</li>
- <li>Chainmail Waistcoat<ch.emdash/>worn on the body.</li>
- <li>Mace<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Healing Potion<ch.emdash/>carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Spear<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Shield<ch.emdash/>slung over the shoulder when not in combat otherwise in the hand.</li>
- <li>Broadsword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill and the correct weapon, it adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry eight items in your Backpack at once.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</p>
- <p>Enter on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> a <a idref="map">map</a> that you found in the ashes of the Monastery.</p>
- <p>You begin this section with the Seal of Hammerdal, a ring that you wear on your right hand. Enter it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under Special Items.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The local currency is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Gold Crowns can be used on your adventure to pay for transport, food or even as a bribe! Many of the creatures that you will encounter possess Gold Crowns, or have them hidden in their lairs. Whenever you kill a creature, you may take any Gold Crowns that it has and put them in your Belt Pouch.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Kai Discipline of Hunting as one of your five skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Healing Potion</dt>
- <dd><p>This can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is only enough for one dose. If you discover any other potions during the adventure, you will be told then of their effect. All Healing Potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows.</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Kai Disciplines to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is ambushed by a Winged Devil (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but must stand and fight as the creature swoops down on him. Lone Wolf has the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, to which the Winged Devil is not immune, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 17.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Winged Devil<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.minus/>3. (17 <ch.minus/> 20 = <ch.minus/>3). <ch.minus/>3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and Winged Devil has been established as <ch.minus/>3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- <li>Winged Devil loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are bestowed upon Kai Lords at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf series, you will gain an additional Kai Discipline and gradually progress towards mastery of the ten basic Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Novice</li>
- <li>Intuite</li>
- <li>Doan</li>
- <li>Acolyte</li>
- <li>Initiate<ch.emdash/>You begin the Lone Wolf adventures with this level of Kai training</li>
- <li>Aspirant</li>
- <li>Guardian</li>
- <li>Warmarn or Journeyman</li>
- <li>Savant</li>
- <li>Master</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Beyond the ten basic skills of the Kai Master await the secrets of the higher Kai Disciplines or <quote>Magnakai</quote>. By acquiring the wisdom of the Magnakai, a Kai Lord can progress towards the ultimate achievement and become a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission will be one of great danger, for the Darklords and their servants are a cruel and fierce enemy who give and expect no mercy. Use the <a idref="map">map</a> to help you steer a correct course for the capital. Make notes as you progress through the story, for they will be of great help in future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will aid you during the adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>There are many routes to the Hammerdal, but only one will enable you to retrieve the Sommerswerd and return to Sommerlund with the minimum of danger. A wise choice of Kai Disciplines and a great deal of courage, will enable any player to complete the mission, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> or <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <p>The fate of your country hangs on the success of your perilous quest.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain D<ch.apos/>Val and his guards escort you to the citadel gate where a small covered wagon awaits you. As soon as you clamber in, the gates are thrown open and you are hurried away through the crowded streets of Holmgard. After a short but uncomfortable journey, the wagon stops and the driver pulls open the canvas flap.</p>
- <p><quote>This is the quay, my lord. There is your ship, the Green Sceptre.</quote> As he speaks the driver points across the quay to a sleek trade caravel anchored near to the harbour wall.</p>
- <p><quote>The first mate<ch.apos/>s name is Ronan. You will find him waiting for you across the square at the Good Cheer Inn.</quote> Then the driver bids you farewell and quickly disappears into the teeming crowds.</p>
- <p>You reach the inn to find the front doors locked and the window shutters barred. You are trying to decide what to do next when a hand grabs your arm and you are pulled into the darkness.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to draw your weapon and attack your unknown assailant, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you wish to try and pull free of his grasp, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are travelling along a narrow section of coast road which follows a dizzy course beneath high, overhanging cliffs. A rockfall has blocked the road ahead and you must stop to clear it. You are helping the driver to lever a large rock from the path of the carriage, when you hear the sound of falling rocks. A boulder crashes down from the overhanging cliff, killing the driver before you can make any attempt to save him. He was standing less than six feet away from you at the time of his death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a small alleyway behind the shop, at the end of which you can see a horse tethered to a post.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to take this animal and flee the village, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you do not want to take the horse, leave the alleyway by <link-text>turning to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tavern is full of brigands and drunks, the good-for-nothing crews of trading ships moored at the jetty, all singing and drinking while some try their strength at arm-wrestling. All are so engrossed that nobody notices you enter. In a far corner, you see the fishermen that robbed you. They are seated at a round table covered with empty ale tankards. You know that if you are to reach Durenor in time, you must retrieve the Seal of Hammerdal and your gold.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to confront the fishermen, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to talk to the innkeeper at the bar, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to try and win some Gold Crowns at arm-wrestling, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door bursts open and in rushes a Helghast, its black sword raised. You strike the creature as it enters the hold and open a terrible gash in its chest. It lets out a hideous cry but although badly wounded, it leaps forward to attack you. You must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>It is an undead creature. Double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that it loses, due to the power of the Sommerswerd. It is immune to Mindblast. If you kill the creature, you may leave via the open hold door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The boy has spotted you following him. Once outside, he turns and runs south. You give chase but he has soon disappeared into the maze of alleyways and warehouses lining the waterfront.</p>
- <p>You turn east into Oxyoke Way and walk past another entrance to the trading post A little further on, you notice a sign above the door of a small shop:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Meki Majenor<ch.emdash/>Armourer and Weaponsmith</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to enter the weaponsmithy, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to continue walking east, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dorier jumps away from the table and draws his sword. In an instant, his brother Ganon is by his side. You must fight them both as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dorier + Ganon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the surprise of your attack, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of this combat only. Because of their combined strength of will, a skill developed during their training as knights, they are immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sleep is deep indeed<ch.emdash/>and it is a sleep from which you will never awaken. During the night you are bitten by a sandsnake. Its deadly venom takes only seconds to work.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is early morning on the fifteenth day of your quest when you open your eyes to the breathtaking spectacle of Hammerdal, the mountain city. The capital of Durenor, unlike other cities in the Lastlands, does not need man-made fortifications. The encircling peaks of the Hammerdal range offer a far more secure protection to the people within.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The King<ch.apos/>s Tower, a magnificent</line>
- <line>structure of glass and stone</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="686" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="686" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The carriage speeds through the lush farmlands surrounding the city with its many towers and wide streets. On a hill in the very centre of Hammerdal stands the King<ch.apos/>s Tower, a magnificent structure of glass and stone. As the carriage halts at the tower gates, you suddenly realize for the first time that as a wielder of the Sommerswerd, your destiny is to become part of the oldest legend of the Lastlands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pocket the ticket (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and the man takes you to a coach that is waiting near the east gate of the seaport. It is empty and you take a seat near one of its circular windows. You are relieved to find that the seat is quite comfortable, for the journey to Port Bax will take seven days.</p>
- <p>Stowing your equipment beneath the seat, you settle back in comfort and doze off.</p>
- <p>When you awake, there are five other passengers and the journey to Durenor has already begun.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If the number you have picked is 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If the number you have picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Covering yourself with your Kai cloak, you hide inside a large wooden barrel. But it is to no avail, for in less than a minute the trapdoor is thrown open and four angry villagers drop to the stone floor, torches and swords held high in their hands. As you are dragged kicking from the cellar, the screams of the crowd drown your pleas for mercy.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain Kelman unlocks a display case and removes a Samor board. The beautifully carved playing pieces are already in position when he carefully sets it down upon the table.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>After somewhat reluctantly <!--ERRTAG-RE-48175-->agreeing to a wager<!--/ERRTAG-RE-48175--> of 10 Gold Crowns, you begin the game.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, you may add 2 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If your total score is now 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If your total score is now 7<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense reveals that the left path is the quickest route to Port Bax. You adjust the load of your equipment on your back and set off once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155"><link-text>Turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the contest begins, you use your Kai Discipline to weaken your opponent<ch.apos/>s concentration. Beads of sweat stand out on his forehead and his eyes gradually close as he withers under your relentless Mindblast. In less than a minute he has collapsed to the floor completely unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>His look of suspicion changes to one of surprise. <quote>I believed you to be a trickster, Kai Lord. I must confess that I had planned to teach you a lesson you would not have forgotten in a lifetime. Please forgive my doubts but your story sounded so grave that I refused to believe it for fear it be true. I am sworn to the defence of the border and I cannot leave this tower, but I offer you any of my possessions if they may aid you on your quest.</quote></p>
- <p>He places the following items on a large oak table and invites you to take your choice:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Healing Potion (restores 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>Enough Food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Backpack</li>
- <li>12 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>As you are about to leave the tower, he points out the direction you should take.</p>
- <p><quote>When you reach the Rymerift, take the track northwards. You will come to a bridge guarded by the King<ch.apos/>s men. When they ask for the password, answer them with the word <quote>sunset</quote>. The road beyond the Rymerift leads to Port Bax. Godspeed Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the brave warrior and leave. You must abandon your horse at the watchtower, for it would be impossible to pass through the dense trees on horseback.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pick up an ale glass and smash it across the edge of the table. The jagged glass is razor-sharp. As you draw it across the back of your left hand, a long cut appears trickling blood. Covering this wound with your right hand, you concentrate and feel the warmth of your power as the wound heals. When you remove your right hand, no trace of the cut or any scar remains. The sailor stares at you in amazement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have pulled yourself halfway through the deck when the door to the hold below bursts open. A Helghast runs shrieking towards you. You cannot escape in time and it badly wounds you in the legs with its black sword. You lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and drop to the hold. You must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>It is an undead creature, so remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that it loses in this combat as a result of the power of the Sommerswerd. This creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you kill the Helghast, you may leave the hold by the open door. <link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street ahead is completely blocked by wagons which are being unloaded onto a merchant ship. You follow the street as it turns east into Oxyoke Way. To your left is another entrance to the Ragadorn Trading Post. Beyond that you notice a smaller shop with a sign above the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Meki Majenor<ch.emdash/>Armourer and Weaponsmith</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to enter the trading post, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you would rather investigate the weaponsmithy, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to continue walking east, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than twenty yards away, a small search party is marching along the wet cobblestones. You run towards the darkened doorway of a small shop and quickly enter to avoid the mob. With your heart pounding in your chest, you pray that you have not been spotted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow this rat-infested street as it drops steeply to the wharfs and jetties of the River Dorn. From the edge of the waterfront, you see the Ragadorn bridge. It is the only crossing between the east and west sides of this sleazy port. Pushing your way through the crowds of people on the bridge, you enter a rubbish-strewn thoroughfare known as East Trade Lane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trickster lies dead at your feet. Rolling him over with your foot, you remove several cards from the sleeves of his jacket and throw them on the table. The crowd soon disperses and the tavern is a bustle of noise and activity once more. The other card players retrieve their gold from the table and leave the remainder for you.</p>
- <p>To find out how much has been left on the table, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. (In this instance, 0 = 10 instead of zero.) Now multiply this number by 3. The total is the number of Gold Crowns that are on the table. You may also take the Card Sharp<ch.apos/>s Dagger if you wish. Remember to mark all the items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>As the body is being dragged outside, you walk to the bar and call for the innkeeper. You press a Gold Crown into his hand and ask for a room for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the morning you are awoken by the cry of the deck watchman: <quote>Wreckage off the starboard bow!</quote></p>
- <p>Quickly dressing, you climb up on deck and join the captain at the rail.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You chase the furry creature as it hurries along a narrow, twisting passage for nearly ten minutes and are about to give up the chase when the passage opens out into a huge torchlit cavern. A stunning sight greets your eyes. The cavern houses an entire colony of these strange creatures, all busy sorting through and examining a vast pile of strange objects littering the centre of the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is the crypt of Killean the Overlord. He had been ruler of Ragadorn, but he and many others in Ragadorn died during an outbreak of Red Death plague three years ago.</p>
- <p>You suddenly recall a journeyman of your monastery called Swift Fox. He told you tales of his many travels to Ragadorn. The Red Death killed over half the population here. It also killed Swift Fox.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to return to the tavern, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to head west along Tomb Street, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to head east along Watchtower Street, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Casting your eye around the crowded tavern, you notice that many of the local villagers are playing various gambling games. Near to the main door, a young rogue has three upturned wooden cups on the table in front of him. He spins them around and challenges anyone to point out the cup that contains a small glass marble. If they guess correctly, he will pay them double the money they have gambled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense or Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you do not have either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are staring into the hollow eye sockets of a walking corpse. Twisted and disfigured though he is, you recognize Captain Kelman. You are in fact standing upon the deck of the Green Sceptre which sank during the storm twenty-eight days ago, and which has been raised from its murky grave this very morning to join the death-hulk fleet.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>Twisted and disfigured though he is,</line>
- <line>you recognize Captain Kelman</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="669" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="669" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The dead captain extends a broken hand towards you and a ghastly voice begs you to lay down the Sommerswerd: <quote>Put down your sword and my soul will be spared this torment.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to place the Sommerswerd upon the deck, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to attack the zombie captain, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk for over three hours along the lonely coast road before night begins to fall. You are very tired and you decide to get some sleep and continue at dawn. You remember the tales told by your Kai masters of the Wildlands between Sommerlund and Durenor, where packs of wild dogs roam the wastelands at night.</p>
- <p>With these stories in mind, you decide to spend the night in the safety of a large leafy tree at the edge of the road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">Your rest is very refreshing. Restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (if any have been lost on your adventure so far), and <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cowardly Szalls squeal in terror and run in all directions to avoid your blows. They have soon fled from the clearing and you turn to help the dying man. He is barely alive and far too weak to talk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish carefully to remove the spear from his chest <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you would rather search his pack for useful Items <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the lock and slide back the hatch cover. The sudden draught of air causes flames to billow out of the hold. You stumble backwards, clutching your burnt face. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire! Fire!</quote> the cry goes up.</p>
- <p>In panic the crew fight to put out the flames. It takes over an hour to control the blaze. The damage is considerable<ch.emdash/>the entire store of food and fresh water was in that hold, and the fire has completely ruined both, as well as weakened the structure of the ship.</p>
- <p>As you stand surveying the wreckage, the captain approaches you, his face blackened by the smoke. He is carrying something in a bundle under his arm. <quote>We must talk in private, my lord,</quote> he says quietly.</p>
- <p>Without replying, you turn and follow him below to his cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land on the rotting timbers and crash straight through to the deck below. You are unharmed by the fall, but the stench of decay that fills your nostrils is overwhelming. You clamber up and unsheathe the Sommerswerd. Four ghastly zombies stagger out of the gloom, their twisted hands extended towards your throat. You must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zombie Crew</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>They are undead creatures, so remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that they lose due to the power of the Sommerswerd. They are immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect31-1-foot" idref="sect31-1">
- <p>If you do not have a Backpack, you may choose to assume here that you are outfitted with one by Rhygar.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first meeting with the Lord-lieutenant comes as something of a shock. You had perhaps half expected him to be a servile old man, as are the envoys of the southern lands that plague your King<ch.apos/>s court with their delegations. The man clad in heavy chainmail standing before you is neither old nor servile. You are soon to learn that Lord-lieutenant Rhygar is an exceptional man.</p>
- <p>Born of a Sommlending father and a Durenese mother, he has become something of a legend in this city. In the last decade, he has led an alliance of the nations to victory against the invading Ice Barbarians of Kalte. Wise in peace, fierce in war, you could not have wished for better company on your quest for the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <p>Rhygar orders that a sumptuous meal be served. It is by far the best food you have tasted since the war began. During the feast, you recall the events that have brought you to Port Bax, and reflect on the daunting challenge that still lies before you. After the meal, Rhygar sends for his physician who attends to your wounds. His potions restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Then he advises you to sleep, for you are to leave with the Lord-lieutenant for Hammerdal in the morning.<footref id="sect31-1" idref="sect31-1-foot"/></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Early next day, you are taken to an enclosed garden at the rear of the consulate where Rhygar and three of his best soldiers await you on horseback. They are to be your bodyguard and guides on the 230 mile ride to Hammerdal. The streets of Port Bax are just beginning to come to life as you ride through the town. Passing under the moss-covered city gate, you now feel confident that your mission will succeed.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake at dawn to the sound of a shrill cockcrow. You can see the crooked streets of Ragadorn through a veil of heavy rain beating down on the cobblestones outside. It has been six days since you left Holmgard and you are still 200 miles from Port Bax.</p>
- <p>You are in the loft of a very large coach station. A group of green-clad men have arrived and have started to clean out one of the coaches. You overhear one of them say that the coach leaves for Port Bax at one o<ch.apos/>clock this afternoon and that the journey will take seven days.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and must eat a Meal here or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">After the Meal, if you decide to approach the coachmen and ask to buy a ticket for the journey to Port Bax, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you would rather descend the ladder to the street outside, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The other travellers stare with horror and disbelief at what you have done. Before you can explain yourself, there is a loud crash as the front door is thrown open. In rush six armoured soldiers led by the innkeeper. They are the town guard, and the one-eyed innkeeper is screaming at them to arrest you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to fight them, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to escape by the rear door, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you close the door of your cabin, you hear the frantic shouts of the crew as they prepare to fight off the attackers. Suddenly you hear the dull thud of something hitting the rear deck followed by the shrieks of creatures you know only too well<ch.emdash/>Giaks! The Zlanbeast are dropping nets of Giaks <!--ERRTAG-RE-68919-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-68919--> the ship. The door of your cabin bursts open and you are faced by three of the hideous grey-skinned creatures. Their jagged swords are covered in blood. You cannot evade and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">14</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stepping over the unconscious soldier, you quickly dash past the tower into the forest. If more guards appear they are likely to attack first and ask questions later.</p>
- <p>You have been walking for over two hours when you come to a fork in the road by a stunted oak tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to take the left fork, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to take the right fork, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The food tastes delicious and it is only a matter of minutes before you empty your plate. You decide to take a short nap before meeting the others in the bar room. But as you are about to lie down, a terrible pain grips your stomach. Your legs buckle and you fall trembling to the floor. You feel as if your whole body is on fire. One word repeats itself over and over again in your mind<ch.emdash/>poison<ch.ellips/>poison<ch.ellips/>poison<ch.ellips/></p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you have some Laumspur, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you have neither of the above, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the coach it is warm and dry. Shaking the rain from your Kai cloak, you notice three other passengers on board: two women and a man who is snoring loudly. One of the women looks up and smiles.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Inside the coach, it is warm and dry</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>We should reach Ragadorn in six hours, she says, placing her basket on the floor so that you can sit beside her. You learn that she lives in Ragadorn and she tells you a little about the port.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Since Killean the Overlord died three years ago, Ragadorn has been ruled by Lachlan, his evil son. He and his mercenaries are nothing but pirates. They bleed the people dry with their heavy taxes, and if anyone complains, they are quietly disposed of. It<ch.apos/>s a sorry state of affairs. If you take my advice you<ch.apos/>ll leave Ragadorn as soon as possible.</quote></p>
- <p>During the journey you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> Points.</p>
- <p>Then in the distance you hear a bell tolling. You look out of the window to see the city wall of Ragadorn. The coach passes through the west gate and pulls to a halt. As you jump to the ground, you are greeted by the awful smell of this dingy seaport. A rusty sign nailed to a wall says <quote>Welcome to Ragadorn</quote>.</p>
- <p>The woman tells you that you can board a coach to Port Bax at the coach station near the east gate of the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to walk north into Westgate Lane, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to head south along East Bank Walk <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you want to walk east into Axe Lane, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab the shaft of the spear and thrust it upwards into the rib cage of the Helghast. It screams in agony and rage, and releases its grip on your throat. You roll away in time to see the hideous creature fall writhing on the ground, desperately trying to pull the spear from its body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to grab the shaft of the spear and drive it deeper into the Helghast, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to run away as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At dusk the coach stops at an inn on the coast road to Port Bax. The cost of a room for the night is 1 Gold Crown for coach passengers and 3 Gold Crowns for anyone else. As you are about to enter, the coach driver demands to see your ticket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you have a ticket for the journey to Port Bax, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not have a ticket, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The muster of the army and the preparation of the Durenese fleet takes fourteen days to complete, during which time you remain as a guest of the king in Hammerdal. As each day passes, you despair for your besieged countrymen of Holmgard and pray that they have enough strength to resist the Darklords until you return.</p>
- <p>Every day of your reluctant exile you devote long periods to exercise and meditation. You are also visited by a Durenese herbwarden called Madin Rendalim, who is famous throughout the Lastlands for his knowledge and skill in the healing arts. He restores all the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you may have lost so far on your adventure, and he gives you a potent Laumspur potion that will restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if swallowed after combat. (Mark this under Backpack Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>He is also the bearer of some sad news. The body of Lord-lieutenant Rhygar was found in the forest near to the entrance to Tarnalin. He was killed by Helghast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in luck, for the boat has seen your distress signal and is heading towards you. It is a small fishing boat from the port of Ragadorn. The fishermen are a rough-looking bunch, but they wrap you in a warm blanket and offer you some food. The captain suggests that you sleep, as it will be two or three hours before they arrive back in Ragadorn.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to take his advice, restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you prefer to stay awake and keep watch for any other survivors of the storm, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that someone is on the cliff above and that you were the intended victim of their attack. Someone is trying to kill you!</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swing the Sommerswerd in a wide arc and hit four of the zombies in one sweep, but no sooner do their corpses drop to the deck than others press forward to take their place. You will never kill them all before they overwhelm you. As they start to tear at your cloak, you are forced to dive overboard into the sea to avoid certain death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The venom is in your bloodstream. Your arm feels numb and you are beginning to sweat. The last sound you hear is the gentle lap of the surf and the cries of vultures high above.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are galloping along the forest road towards the cloaked riders when you see one of them raise a black staff high above his head. A knot of twisted black steel crowns the tip and it is starting to flow with a vivid blue flame. You are just ready to strike when a searing bolt of energy hurtles from the evil staff and explodes beside you. Thrown sideways by the force of the blast, you tumble into the undergrowth.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If it is 8<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try hard to remember the significance of the orange door, but without success.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to enter this shop, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect47-1-foot" idref="sect47-1">
- <p>You must have learned the password (i.e. have read <a idref="sect15">Section 15</a>) during this same adventure (not only during a previous reading) in order to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldiers quickly descend from the roof of the hut and grab their spears. They advance towards you and one of them shouts, <quote>Password, stranger!</quote><footref id="sect47-1" idref="sect47-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you know the correct password for this bridge, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pointing at a jug of ale on the bar, you tell the sailor to watch very closely. Closing your eyes, you concentrate on the jug until you can picture it in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye. As you will the jug to rise in the air, you hear the sailor gasp in amazement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days and nights, the fleet of Durenor spread canvas and sail swiftly towards the Holmgulf. But although the voyage is fast, each ship in the fleet is cursed by misfortune. Sails tear, ropes mysteriously untie themselves and timbers warp and leak. The men become short-tempered in the cramped quarters and fighting, often to the death, is commonplace. By the third night of the voyage, Lord Axim is close to despair.</p>
- <p><quote>Never have I suffered such a wretched journey. No enemy has been sighted nor battle fought, yet half my men are either ill or wounded, and we have lost two of our finest ships. We have been jinxed by an evil moon. How I pray that it would wane, for even if we were to arrive in Holmgard this very night I fear we are too weak to break the siege.</quote></p>
- <p>As he speaks, you can see the dawn of the next day breaking. You think it may bring promise of relief, but the calm waters that now surround the fleet contain a far deadlier threat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A priest suddenly leans forward and donates another Crown to the plate and the coach is allowed to continue on its way. <quote>Perhaps you can return the favour sometime in the future, my son,</quote> he says and returns to his seat before you can reply. But you notice how strange it is that the hood of his robe keeps his face in constant shadow.</p>
- <p>You are soon across the swollen river and the journey continues.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After nearly an hour, the coach stops at the shrine of Kalanane. It is said that this shrine is built upon the grave of King Alin, the first ruler of Durenor, and all around the shrine grow clumps of Laumspur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to pick some of this herb, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you do not, return to the coach by <link-text>turning to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly from out of the darkness above, there is a blood-chilling cry. You look up to see the glowing red eyes of a Helghast as it charges down the steps straight at you. You scream in terror and frantically search for a weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you have a Magic Spear, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear whispering among the crew and catch the words <quote>ghost-ships</quote> and <quote>cursed voyage</quote>, but the whispering stops when the captain<ch.apos/>s voice calls for all hands on deck. A silence descends on the Green Sceptre as Captain Kelman addresses the crew in a loud voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Men, we are three days<ch.apos/> sail from Port Bax, but with a strong wind and a stout heart we<ch.apos/>ll drop anchor and feast there in two. The fire has claimed many of our provisions and rations are hereby cut to one meal a day. A guard shall be placed upon the freshwater cask. But we are strong. We shall endure. Any man found thieving will receive a hundred lashes. That is all.</quote> The crew seem unhappy at the captain<ch.apos/>s decision, but none of them dares to challenge his authority.</p>
- <p>Later that afternoon, you are invited by both the crew and by the captain to take your evening meal with them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to eat with the captain, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you wish to eat with the crew, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you race through the door, you are knocked off your feet by the force of a spear thrust into your chest. As the moonlight fades, the last thing you see of this world is a circle of screaming villagers as they stab and hack you to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A large man dressed in a leather apron is busily sharpening a fine Broadsword. He is seated at a grindstone that sends a shower of sparks high into the air every time he touches the blade to it. He bids you good evening and offers you the Broadsword.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote><ch.apos/>Tis a fine blade, wrought of Durenese steel. It can be yours for only 12 Gold Crowns.</quote></p>
- <p>If you wish to purchase this Broadsword, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you leave this shop by the front door, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you leave by the rear door, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper hands you a key. <quote>Room 4, second left at the top of the stairs. I expect you out an hour after dawn.</quote></p>
- <p>Your room contains nothing more than a bed, a chair and a small table. You lock the door and prop the chair against it for good measure, before settling down to sleep. You resolve to find some other route to Durenor in the morning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the back of his gloved hand, the guard knocks the gold from your grasp and it drops into the dark waters of the Rymerift. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to determine how much gold you have lost (0 = 10 Gold Crowns).</p>
- <p><quote>We would not sell the security of our land so cheaply,</quote> he says. <quote>Only a bandit or a fool would try to bribe a soldier of Durenor, and I fancy that you are both.</quote></p>
- <p>Unfortunately, you have insulted their honour and they intend to teach you a harsh lesson.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Bad luck, Lone Wolf. Your strategy is daring, but I think I have you now.</quote></p>
- <p>The captain moves his ornate keystone across the board and you realize that the game is lost. You congratulate him on his mastery of Samor and hand over 10 Gold Crowns.</p>
- <p><quote>Perhaps another game tomorrow evening? Never let it be said that I am not a fair man,</quote> the captain says. <quote>Perhaps,</quote> you answer cautiously. You bid the smiling captain goodnight before returning to your cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spur your horse towards a cloaked Helghast that is about to strike a helpless soldier. This creature is immune to Mindblast and can only be wounded by a magical weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you have a Magic Spear, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you do not, you must evade the combat and dive into the cover of the forest. <link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Halvorc stares in shocked disbelief.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Halvorc</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">8</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He is unable to fight back for the first two rounds due to the surprise of your attack. Do not deduct any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you may lose during these first two rounds. If he is still alive for the third round of combat, he comes at you with a dagger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the pouring rain, you can just make out the dark shape of a city patrol marching towards you. If they should stop you and ask your business in Ragadorn, you could end up in the dungeons of Lachlan the Overlord. Rather than risk being arrested, you retreat along Black Knight Street and quickly turn into Sage Street as the soldiers march past.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect62-1-foot" idref="sect62-1">
- <p>If you have the <quote>necessary papers</quote>, you only have the option of not showing them if you have the Seal of Hammerdal.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a large room full of ledgers and files. A man wearing the uniform of a Durenese naval officer is seated opposite at a large desk. He peers at you inquisitively from behind a huge book and says, <quote>You must have pressing business in the naval quadrant to apply for a red pass at this late hour. I shall need to see your access papers and proof of your commanding officer<ch.apos/>s authorization.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you have collected the necessary documents on your quest, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.<footref id="sect62-1" idref="sect62-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not have the documents he requires, or do not wish to show them to him, you will have to risk showing him the Seal of Hammerdal. <link-text>Turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you do not have either the Seal or the documents, leave the room and return to the outer hall by <link-text>turning to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken during the night by the weight of something on your chest. You slowly open your cloak and are horrified to see a sandsnake nestling beneath.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you want to try to grab this deadly snake behind its head and throw it into the road, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to jump up and brush the snake away, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahead you can see a passenger wagon similar in design to those that use the coast roads of Ragadorn. The horses have been cut free and it appears to be deserted. You notice the bodies of three soldiers lying beneath it. Their uniforms are heavily bloodstained.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you wish to search the wagon for food and equipment <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you would rather ignore the wagon and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you run along Watchtower Street, you hear the curses of the guard fading behind you. You reach Tomb Square, and spot four soldiers marching up Tomb Street towards you. Quickly you head south to avoid them. You have been running along the cobbled street for nearly ten minutes when you spot a large stable and coach station in the gloom ahead. Under cover of the darkness, you enter and spend the night safely hidden in the hay-loft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you raise the glowing blade, the zombie captain pulls an evil-looking dagger from inside his tattered jacket. You must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zombie Captain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">15</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Be sure to remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points your enemy loses due to the power of the Sommerswerd. The zombie captain is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly deduce that the impostor must have escaped by the main entrance to the tavern, and if he is still in the harbour area he must be in or around the main square.</p>
- <p>You search the buildings and alleyways round the square but there is no sign of him at all. Rather than waste more time in a fruitless search, you return to the quayside and untie a small coracle from its mooring. As you row towards the Green Sceptre you begin to feel uneasy that so early in your mission your enemies seem already to have found you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard<ch.apos/>s expression changes to a sneer of contempt. <quote>I am a soldier of Durenor. Your gold will not help you here.</quote></p>
- <p>Unfortunately you have insulted his honour and he intends to teach you a harsh lesson.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the cloaked strangers removes a black staff from beneath his robes and holds it aloft. A blue flame ignites at the twisted iron tip and a searing blast of energy leaps towards you. There is a deafening crack as the bolt is turned away by Rhygar<ch.apos/>s shield.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>One of the cloaked strangers holds aloft a black staff</line>
- <line>and a blue flame ignites at the twisted iron tip</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="653" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="653" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Give no quarter,</quote> cries the Lord-lieutenant as he attacks the cloaked staff-bearer. His sword slices clean through the robed stranger but he remains unharmed. You suddenly realize why he does not bleed. He and his sinister companions are Helghast, fell captains of the Darklords. They have the ability to adopt human form but are invulnerable to normal weapons. The Helghast lets out a hideous scream that tears at your mind. Blinded by the sudden pain, you trip and fall into the dense undergrowth of the wooded hillside. Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from this attack by the Helghast<ch.apos/>s Mindforce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gasp with pain as the serpent<ch.apos/>s fangs sink deeply into your arm. Grabbing the snake behind its ugly head, you rip away the thrashing creature and hurl it into the long grass. But your wound is deep and inflamed by venom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you have a Crystal Star Pendant, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slam the door shut and draw the bolt. The shop is dark but you can still make out a staircase to your right, a trapdoor in the centre of the floor and another door in the opposite wall. Suddenly there is a crash as an axe splinters a panel of the door behind you. You have been spotted entering the shop and the mob are breaking down the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you decide to open the trapdoor and hide in the cellar, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you leave the room by the other door, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you decide to run up the stairs, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper takes your Gold Crown and places a foaming tankard of ale on the bar. The ale is strong and fortifying. Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to your current total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to talk to the innkeeper, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you want a room for the night, pay the innkeeper 2 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to enter an arm-wrestling competition, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The climb is very difficult, for you have only one free hand<ch.emdash/>the other holds the glowing hilt of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <p>You eventually reach the rim of the tower and quickly hook a leg over the narrow ledge. You are about to jump into the tower and attack when a thin voice makes you freeze.</p>
- <p><quote>How I shall delight in the irony of your death, Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>The sorcerer is standing in the far corner of the tower, his left hand pointing at your head. <quote>Your quest has failed Lone Wolf. Now you must die!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A blinding flash of orange flame shoots from his hand towards your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336"><link-text>Turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Placing your hands upon his chest, you try to seal the open wound. He has lost a lot of blood and although he is sweating heavily, his skin is cold to the touch. His eyes suddenly roll open and he shouts a garbled warning.</p>
- <p><quote>Pirates<ch.ellips/>Lakuri pirates<ch.ellips/>beware the red sails<ch.ellips/>repel boarders!</quote></p>
- <p>The captain is soon unconscious once more. You wrap him in blankets and place a cushion beneath his head, but he has drifted off into a sleep from which he will not awake. Back on deck, the bodies of the dead crew have been gathered together. Captain Kelman approaches you and hands you a vicious-looking black scimitar.</p>
- <p><quote>This is no pirate sword, Lone Wolf. This weapon was forged in the furnaces of Helgedad. It is a Darklord blade.</quote></p>
- <p>It is daunting news. If the Darklords have allied the Lakuri pirates to their cause, the voyage to Durenor will be a perilous one. You fling the black sword into the sea and return to the Green Sceptre. As you set sail for the east, you watch as the Durenor merchantman slips beneath the waves.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a musty office where two men sit hunched over desks bowed beneath the weight of books and papers.</p>
- <p><quote>Good evening, sir,</quote> says one of the men, his long waxed moustache twitching as he speaks. <quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-102954-->Sir requires<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102954--> a merchant<ch.apos/>s pass?</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can reply, the man passes to you a fistful of complicated forms. <quote>If sir would care to sign these, I can issue sir<ch.apos/>s pass immediately. The fee is 10 Gold Crowns.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to sign the forms and purchase a white pass, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you do not have enough money or do not wish to purchase the pass, leave this office and return to the hall by <link-text>turning to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tearing open his bloodied robes, you are shocked to discover there is no evidence that he was your would-be assassin. All that you find are 2 Gold Crowns and a Dagger. You may take these Items if you wish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During the period of your Kai training, your masters taught you many of the languages and dialects of northern Magnamund, one of which was Szall. The creatures in this clearing are Szalls and they are screaming at you that the wounded man is not a man at all. They say he is a Helghast, a powerful shape-changing servant of the Darklords.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you believe that they are telling the truth, check what the man has in his pack by <link-text>turning to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you suspect that the Szalls are lying to stop you interfering with their spiteful game, fend them off with your weapon by <link-text>turning to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect78-1-foot" idref="sect78-1">
- <p>If you have a Chainmail Waistcoat, you must discard it. You are not allowed to <quote>risk drowning</quote>. This is just flavourful text, not a real option.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive backwards, but only just in time to avoid the falling mast as it smashes straight through the deck. You stagger upright and peer into the mass of shattered timbers. Pinned beneath the broken mast is the lifeless body of Captain Kelman.</p>
- <p>As you stare in horror, a loud crack fills the air as the storm breaks open the already damaged hull of the Green Sceptre. As the ship breaks up you are hurled over the side and into the raging sea.</p>
- <p>Gasping for air, you claw your way up to the surface but strike your head on a hatch cover. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and pull yourself <!--ERRTAG-RE-106008-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-106008--> this makeshift raft. If you are wearing a Chainmail Waistcoat, you must discard this now or risk drowning.<footref id="sect78-1" idref="sect78-1-foot"/> In the grey light of the storm, you watch as the broken ship sinks beneath the heaving sea. You are feeling dizzy and very sick. Hanging on to the cover with all your strength, you gradually slip into unconsciousness.</p>
- <p>When you eventually awake, the storm has passed. The only trace of the Green Sceptre is the hatch cover on which you lie. By the position of the sun you suppose it to be late afternoon. In the distance, you can see a small fishing boat and beyond it, the coastline stretches out along the horizon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to use your cloak to try to signal to the fishing boat, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you want to ignore the boat and paddle towards the shore instead, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect79-1-foot" idref="sect79-1">
- <p>The Sommerswerd is a weapon-like Special Item. The +10 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus referred to for Weaponskill is a combination of the +8 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> that the Sommerswerd grants naturally and +2 for Weaponskill with Short Sword, Sword, or Broadsword (as each of them grant proficiency with the Sommerswerd). It is not an additional bonus. When used in combat, treat it like a one-handed sword, regardless of Weaponskill bonus. The text or footnotes will always remind you to double your enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss if it is undead.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power coursing through your body so overwhelms your senses that you become oblivious to your surroundings. You instinctively raise the blade above your head where a shaft of sunlight suddenly catches upon its very tip and floods the chamber with a blinding white glow. At that moment the true power of the Sommerswerd is revealed to you.</p>
- <p>This weapon was forged long before the Sommlending, the Durenese or the Darklords dwelt in the Lastlands. Its makers were of a race that men would now call gods. To release the power that it contains, only a Kai Lord may wield it. Should it be used in combat by anyone who is not a Kai Lord, its power will fade and be lost forever.</p>
- <p>When used in combat, the Sommerswerd will add 8 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> (10 points if you possess the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill with swords). It has the ability to absorb any magic that is used against its bearer, and it doubles the total of all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by undead enemies (e.g. Helghast) in combat. It is the only weapon in all of Magnamund that can kill a Darklord, and for this reason the Darklords are bent on thwarting your quest.</p>
- <p>You now realize you hold the only power in Magnamund that can save your people. Slowly the light starts to fade and you become aware of Lord Axim<ch.apos/>s hand upon your shoulder.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, Lone Wolf, there is much preparation for your return to Sommerlund.</quote></p>
- <p>You sheathe the Sommerswerd in its jewelled scabbard and follow Lord Axim as he leaves the King<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <p>Make the necessary adjustments to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total now that you possess the Sommerswerd.<footref id="sect79-1" idref="sect79-1-foot"/> Note the powers of the sword under the Special Items section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>At that moment the true power of the</line>
- <line>Sommerswerd is revealed to you</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The knight sheathes his broadsword and ushers you inside the tower. You follow him to a large room at the top of a flight of stone steps, where a log fire blazes warmly.</p>
- <p><quote>If you are who you claim to be, you must be in possession of the Seal of Hammerdal. Show it to me,</quote> he orders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to show him the Seal, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you do not have the Seal, or do not wish to show it, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake the following morning to the cries of the lookout from high in the crow<ch.apos/>s nest above.</p>
- <p><quote>Longboat adrift off the port stern!</quote></p>
- <p>You climb up on the deck and meet the captain, bracing yourself against the fresh breeze. Less than fifty yards off the port stern, a damaged longboat bobs up and down in the heavy sea. On board are three men huddled together against the wind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you are certain that the angry mob have passed, you jump from the hay-wain and run stealthily along the street, dodging from one shadow to the next. To your left there is a shop with a sign above the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Gunio<ch.apos/>s Weaponsmithy</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>There is a light in the window and the door is open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to enter this shop, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you would rather continue your escape, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of Barnacle Street there is a junction. It is now very dark and you will have to find shelter soon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to turn left into Cooper Way, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to turn right into Unicorn Street, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just inside the main door sits a kindly old man with a long beard. He is studying a huge leather-bound book that rests on a lectern before him. He has not noticed you enter the city hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to ask him the way to the consulate of Sommerlund, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to leave and try to find your own way there, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Viveka kicks over the table. Her reactions are lightning-fast and you have not gained the advantage of surprise over her. She draws her short sword and attacks you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Viveka</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There are many ships of all sizes and nationalities moored on this side of the harbour. The River Dorn, which divides the city of Ragadorn, is always busy.</p>
- <p>You are about to give up your search, when you spot the thieves<ch.apos/> fishing boat. There is nobody aboard, but a thorough search of the cabin reveals a Mace and 3 Gold Crowns hidden inside a folded hammock. The hammock bears a label that reads:</p>
- <signpost>North Star Tavern<ch.emdash/>Barnacle Street</signpost>
- <p>You take the Mace and Crowns and return to Stonepost Square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you choose to go east along Barnacle Street <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to go south along Westbank Wharf, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you choose to head north along Booty Walk, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you raise your weapon and strike at the knight, you realize too late that you have made a dreadful mistake, for he is a champion swordsman and the soldiers are from the <ch.eacute/>lite regiment of King Alin IV<ch.apos/>s bodyguard. Thinking you are a Helghast, they quickly surround you and cut you to pieces.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life come to a tragic end here in Tarnalin.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although night has fallen, a full moon casts a bright light upon the village. Behind the tavern, you see a small wheelwright<ch.apos/>s shop with two horses hitched to a hay-cart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to take a horse and escape, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to hide in the wheelwright<ch.apos/>s shop, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you jump, you are spotted by the driver. He quickly stops the coach and turns to confront you, a sword already in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to stop and pay him for the ride, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to attack him, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two Szalls and three angry villagers are running up the stairs to attack you. You must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Villager 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Szall 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">6</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">9</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Villager 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">14</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Szall 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">5</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">8</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Villager 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect132">You may evade the fight at any time by jumping through a window. To do so, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect91-1-foot" idref="sect91-1">
- <p>Remember that you must take the Backpack in order to carry any of the Backpack Items.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect91-2-foot" idref="sect91-2">
- <p>It is probably fair to consider both Meals as only one item of the merchant<ch.apos/>s cargo.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The boy is thrown out of the trading post by two black-clad guards. The merchant thanks you and offers you the choice of any two Items of his cargo:<footref id="sect91-1" idref="sect91-1-foot"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Enough Food for 2 Meals<footref id="sect91-2" idref="sect91-2-foot"/></li>
- <li>Backpack</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>30 Feet of Rope</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Choose any two of the above Items and record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. After thanking the merchant, you leave by a side door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hideous creature lets out one last cry as it collapses at your feet. As you step back to avoid the putrid smell of its rotting corpse, you see three more Helghast advancing towards you. To remain here would be suicide. You shout a warning to Rhygar as you turn and flee for the safety of the woods.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183"><link-text>Turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Deduct however many Crowns you wish to give to the beggars from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. They thank you, but many other beggars have appeared and demand that you give them money as well. You eventually push through the crowd and continue on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You urge the captain to investigate the vessel, but he ignores your plea and orders the crew to continue with their duties. As the trading ship disappears from view, you stare at it and wonder why the captain was so reluctant to do anything.</p>
- <p>You descend below deck and take care to lock the door of your cabin behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spur your horse through the tangle of trees until you enter a small clearing. Six Szalls are jumping excitedly around the writhing body of a man on the ground. A strangely carved spear is stuck in his chest, and lying dead beside him is the body of a Knight of the White Mountain. The creatures are shrieking at each other and appear to be unconcerned with the man<ch.apos/>s obvious agony.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, a healing potion or some Laumspur, and you want to try to save the man<ch.apos/>s life, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you wish to attack the Szalls, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense warns you that this place harbours evil. You are standing directly outside the orange door when something strikes you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have noticed during your rigorous training exercises with the Sommerswerd that your Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense has become more sensitive than ever before: you knew exactly what Madin Rendalim<ch.apos/>s sad news was long before he actually told you. You may find that your improved Sixth Sense will be an important advantage upon your return to Holmgard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152"><link-text>Turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense reveals that there are no tracks in this part of the Durenor forest, but it does tell you the correct direction to Port Bax. However, the forest that lies before you is so dense that you will have to abandon your horse at the watchtower before you can continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to press on towards Port Bax, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you want to investigate the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following morning you are woken by the cry of the ship<ch.apos/>s lookout from high up in the crow<ch.apos/>s nest.</p>
- <p><quote>Ship ahoy off the port bow!</quote></p>
- <p>You clamber up a narrow ladder and join the captain at the stern. <quote>Your eyes are younger than mine, see what you can make of her, my lord,</quote> he says, and hands you an ornate telescope.</p>
- <p>You can make out the red sails and black flag of a Lakuri pirate warship on the horizon.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A veil of sea fog has rolled across the still ocean from the broken spine of land known as the Kirlundin Isles. Strange dark shapes hide within this mist. They are growing larger, and slowly the distinct outlines of ships become plain.</p>
- <p><quote>Prepare for battle!</quote> The admiral<ch.apos/>s cry is repeated along the many decks of the Durenese fleet.</p>
- <p><quote>All hands on deck!</quote></p>
- <p>As the black ships approach through the fog, a horrific sight befalls you. They are death-hulks, sunken ships crewed by the living corpses of drowned sailors. They have been summoned to the surface by great wizardry, and they are closing for battle. Suddenly the fog vanishes, and you can now see that the death-hulks bar the entrance to the Holmgulf. In the centre of the line is their sinister flagship. Swiftly it sails towards you, a huge ram protruding from its black prow. As it rips its way through the hull of the Durenor, you hear the admiral<ch.apos/>s last desperate order.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>Their sinister flagship swiftly sails towards you,</line>
- <line>a huge ram protruding from its black prow</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="663" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="663" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Abandon ship!</quote></p>
- <p>You are now in the thick of the enemy fleet and the Durenor is sinking fast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to jump <!--ERRTAG-RE-126686-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126686--> the deck of the death-hulk flagship, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to dive into the sea and try to swim to another Durenese ship, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you burst into his cabin, the captain looks up in surprise from his chart table. <quote>Fire in the hold,</quote> you gasp, breathless from your run.</p>
- <p>In an instant, the captain is through the door and ordering the crew to fill buckets with water and gather blankets to smother the fire. By the time you reach the forward hold, the smoke is dense. Suddenly the ship is thrown into a frenzy as flames erupt from the hatch cover. It takes over an hour to contain the blaze and the damage is great. The entire store of food and fresh water was in that hold, and the hull has been badly weakened.</p>
- <p>The captain climbs out of the smoking hold and approaches you, his face black with soot. He is carrying something in a bundle under his arm. <quote>We must talk in private, my lord,</quote> he says quietly. Without replying, you turn and follow him to his cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tarnalin is a wonder to behold. Over a hundred feet in height and width, the tunnel runs to the capital on the far side of the Hammerdal range. Usually it is alive with the traffic of wagons and people to and from Port Bax. But as you enter, you find it deserted except for an overturned fruit cart. The road that disappears into the torchlit tunnel is empty and quiet.</p>
- <p>As you walk along the paved road, you get an uneasy feeling that perhaps the Helghast have arrived at Tarnalin before you. You have been walking for nearly an hour when the tunnel splits in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to take the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect103-1-foot" idref="sect103-1">
- <p>If you do not have a Backpack, remember that you cannot carry this Meal of Laumspur and must consume it immediately or abandon it.</p>
- <p>This Meal of Laumspur may be consumed when prompted for a Meal, in which case it fulfils the Meal requirement in addition to restoring 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Laumspur may also be consumed at any other time to restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points without having any significance as a Meal.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Laumspur is a delicious herb, much sought after in the Lastlands for its healing properties. You have picked enough for one Meal. Eating this meal will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total.<footref id="sect103-1" idref="sect103-1-foot"/> (Remember to add this to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You wrap the herb up, and return to the coach with the other passengers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fishermen stare at you with open mouths as if they have just seen a corpse return from the dead. Suddenly one of them kicks over the table and they make their escape through the back door of the tavern. In one bound, you leap over the table and pursue them out of the tavern, into the darkness beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to continue your chase, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to let them go, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately for you, the rope has been nearly cut in two by a sword blow, and it is likely to snap under your weight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to see if the rope and your luck holds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect106-1-foot" idref="sect106-1">
- <p>The Magic Spear is a weapon-like Special Item. Remember that you only get a Weaponskill bonus in this fight against the Helghast if you have Weaponskill with Spear. Depending on your interpretation of the rules, you may also be restricted from using a Shield, as a Spear is considered to be two-handed.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The carved spear is made of metal, yet it feels as light as if it were made of wood. You notice the shaft is covered in runes and magic emblems. As you carefully pull it from the man<ch.apos/>s chest, he gives a long sigh of relief. You are about to examine his wound, when you feel a searing pain shoot through your head. It is so strong and painful that you collapse to the ground. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are amazed to see the man jump to his feet, and then horrified to see the dreadful change that comes over him. The skin of his face appears to writhe and change colour, growing darker and shrinking as it decays on his skull. His eyes burn with a bright red glow and long fangs protrude from his bottom jaw. You choke with fear as you realize it is a Helghast, a nightmarish agent of the Darklords. It is attacking you with its powerful Mindforce. If you do not have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, you will lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round of combat that you fight with this creature. Normal weapons cannot harm it and it is immune to Mindblast. You can only wound it in combat with the Magical Spear.<footref id="sect106-1" idref="sect106-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy>Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this creature and you must fight it to the death.</p>
- <p>If you win the combat, you can keep the Spear. Mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under the Special Items section as a <quote>Magic Spear.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect320">Continue your adventure by <link-text>turning to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain orders his crew to go alongside. As they board the trader, you are shocked by the sight that awaits you. Dead sailors cover the deck, many pierced by arrows. It seems they must have put up a desperate fight to defend their cargo, but not a trace of it remains in any of the ship<ch.apos/>s holds. Below deck, you discover the captain in his cabin. He is very badly wounded and near to death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the wheels jams in a deep rut and three of the large wooden spokes are shattered. You are forced to stop and replace the wheel before you can continue to Port Bax. You volunteer to help the driver by levering the coach axle with a small tree trunk, so that the spare wheel can be slid into position.</p>
- <p>You are pushing down on the stout branch with all your strength, when the horses suddenly rear up and race forward. The trunk springs back and catches you square in the face, knocking you backwards to the ground. You are stunned and you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The driver is not so lucky. The coach has run over him. As the poor man dies in your arms, his last words are: <quote>No accident<ch.ellips/> I saw <ch.emdash/></quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinking the foul water from your eyes, you can see that the flagship of the death-hulk fleet is now ablaze. Black smoke is pouring from the decks, and tongues of orange and yellow flame flicker from its rotten black hull.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly, you are aware of the beating of wings directly above you. You are shocked to see a Kraan hovering above, trying to grab at you with its sharp claws. Its hooked talons catch your cloak and suddenly you are snatched up into the air. But it is to be a short flight. You draw the Sommerswerd and sink it into the soft belly of the creature. With a shriek of agony, it releases its grip and you fall. You pray that luck will be on your side and that you will land safely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard does not believe you, and he attacks you with his sword.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Watchtower Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you do not have a weapon, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">You may evade the fight at any time by <link-text>turning to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards reluctantly lower their weapons and allow you to cross the bridge. As you slip past, they stare at you and whisper to each other. Once you are safely across the Rymerift, you quickly hurry on your way in case they change their minds and arrest you. After nearly an hour of walking along the forest road, you arrive at a junction where a signpost points to the east.</p>
- <signpost>Port Bax<ch.emdash/>3 Miles</signpost>
- <p>You smile and set off eastwards. You should be there in just under an hour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You suddenly remember what he said about the shop with the orange door. It is the headquarters of the Silent Brotherhood, Lachlan<ch.apos/>s notorious secret police. To enter here would be more perilous than entering a roomful of Drakkarim!</p>
- <p>You quickly turn away from the orange door and hurry northwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect113-1-foot" idref="sect113-1">
- <p>It is likely that the information provided here is a combination of the information given to you previously by Banedon and the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, both of which you must have in order to receive the Crystal Star Pendant.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>He is Vonotar the Traitor, renegade wizard from the Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran. He is a master of the black arts and now possesses great power which the Darklords themselves have given him. It was his agents who tried to assassinate you during your quest, and it is he who commands the death-hulk fleet. Destroy Vonotar and you will destroy the evil force that gives power to the death-hulks and their crews.<footref id="sect113-1" idref="sect113-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect73">You may climb the tower and attack Vonotar by <link-text>turning to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you do not wish to risk your life against this powerful magician, escape from this ship by jumping overboard, and <link-text>turning to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have walked for over three hours along this lonely coast road when night starts to fall. The land is flat and barren, and you have seen no sign of life here at all. You finally decide to rest beneath the branches of a large tree standing close to the highway. Making a pillow of your backpack, you pull your warm Kai cloak around yourself and drift off into a deep sleep.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If the number is 4<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect8">If the number is 8<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The area around the watchtower door has been cleared of foliage, and the ground is well-trodden. You are looking for a lock or keyhole in the iron-clad door when it suddenly opens. Standing before you is a Knight of the White Mountain, a broadsword held in front of his face.</p>
- <p><quote>State your purpose and mark your words well. My steel will be my answer if you lie!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to tell this knight the true purpose of your mission to Durenor, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you want to lie about why you are here, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you want to draw your weapon and attack the knight, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect116-1-foot" idref="sect116-1">
- <p>Neither Discipline literally gives you the ability to see through clay. Rather, Sixth Sense intuitively clues you into the marble<ch.apos/>s location and Mind Over Matter allows you to see the marble in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye in the process of moving it telekinetically.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai Discipline, you can tell which cup hides the marble, for to you, the clay is as transparent as glass itself.<footref id="sect116-1" idref="sect116-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 5 to it. This equals the number of Gold Crowns that you win before the rogue suspects something is wrong and ends the game.</p>
- <p>With gold in your purse once more, you return to the bar and hand over 1 Gold Crown for a room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a large passenger wagon similar to those used by highway travellers of Sommerlund. The driver pulls the horses to a halt and stares at you from under the wide brim of his hat. You ask where he<ch.apos/>s bound for.</p>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>re bound for Ragadorn<ch.emdash/>due there by noon today. A seat will cost you 3 Gold Crowns, but you can ride on the roof for only one.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to ride inside, pay the driver 3 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you would prefer to ride on the roof, pay him 1 Gold Crown and <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you cannot pay the fare, you must let the coach continue and begin your journey on foot. <link-text>Turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bid Rhygar farewell and enter Tarnalin. Over a hundred feet in height and width, the tunnel runs to the capital on the far side of the Hammerdal range, and is lit by torches for its entire length. The highway through the mountain is usually alive with the traffic of merchants to and from Port Bax, yet now the entrance and interior are deserted except for an overturned fruit wagon. As you walk deeper into Tarnalin, a doubt nags at you. Have the Helghast arrived here first?</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The strange creature is wearing a splendid</line>
- <line>jacket of patched leather and carrying</line>
- <line>what appears to be a spear</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="592" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="592" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You have been walking for half an hour when you see a strange creature on top of a wagon in the road ahead. It is two feet high and resembles an overgrown marsh rat. You assume it is some sort of tunnel dwelling rodent until you notice that it is wearing a splendid jacket of patched leather and carrying what appears to be a spear. As you get nearer, it suddenly turns to face you. Its whiskered nose is sniffing the air and its bright black eyes are peering into the gloom. It sees you and scampers off into the darkness of a smaller tunnel to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to follow this creature, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to ignore it and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shattered beams, pieces of planking and torn sails litter the white-flecked waves. It is all that remains of a merchant ship. But then suddenly you notice a body clinging to a broken hatch cover. A rope ladder is quickly lowered and the poor man is brought aboard.</p>
- <p><quote>Pirates!</quote> is all he says before collapsing to the deck. The man is wrapped in a large blanket and taken below. He has suffered many wounds and is close to death.</p>
- <p><quote>This crime bears the mark of the Lakuri pirates,</quote> the captain confides in you, <quote>but it is unusual to run across them in these waters. They must be in search of a rich cargo to sail so far from their tropical islands.</quote></p>
- <p>As the ship resumes its course for Durenor, you cannot help but wonder if that <quote>rich cargo</quote> is you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Luck is with you, for you land safely on the deck of the <cite>Kalkarm</cite>, a Durenese warship. The soldiers here have been involved in a desperate battle but have fought off the enemy and are cutting the grappling ropes that hold the ship to a death-hulk. From out of the smoke strides Lord Axim, his face bloodied and his shield badly scarred.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank the gods you are alive, Lone Wolf. The fight has been bitter and our losses are high, but I am heartened indeed to see you standing before me now,</quote> he says and leads you to the ship<ch.apos/>s rail. <quote>Look yonder, their flagship is ablaze.</quote></p>
- <p>Through the fog of war you can see that the huge death-hulk is slowly sinking beneath a plume of dense black smoke. The <cite>Kalkarm</cite> is eventually freed and slowly it manoeuvres out of the tangle of wreckage. A wind begins to stir, filling its tattered sails and carrying away the smoke of battle. Lord Axim orders the Royal Arms of Durenor to be hoist aloft so that other ships can rally to the <cite>Kalkarm</cite>. For the first time since the battle began, you can now see the other Durenese ships. It is an amazing sight for as the enemy flagship sinks beneath the waves, so every death-hulk on the horizon returns to its watery grave.</p>
- <p><quote>Their sorcery is broken. We have won this battle,</quote> says Lord Axim. And within a few minutes, not one of the death-hulks remains afloat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225"><link-text>Turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you run along Lookout Street, you quickly reach the waterfront where the River Dorn separates the east and west sides of the city. To your left is the Ragadorn Bridge, an ugly construction of rusted iron that provides the only connection between the two halves of Ragadorn. With the shouts of the street thieves echoing in your ears, you push your way through the people crowding the bridge. By the time you have got across, the street thieves have given up the chase, and you enter a rubbish-strewn thoroughfare known as East Trade Lane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This street follows the city wall northwards. On your right you notice a shop with a bright orange door. Unlike all of the other shops in this street, it bears no sign above it. You suddenly remember the tales of a Kai Lord who returned from a visit to Ragadorn about a year ago. He mentioned this orange door in one of his many stories.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If not, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A strange power is coursing through your body. Instinctively you raise the blade above your head and a shaft of sunlight suddenly catches the edge of the sword and floods the King<ch.apos/>s chamber with a blinding white glow.</p>
- <p>But almost immediately the light starts to fade and you are aware of Lord Axim<ch.apos/>s hand upon your shoulder. <quote>Come, Lone Wolf. There is much to prepare for your return to Sommerlund.</quote></p>
- <p>You sheathe the Sommerswerd in its jewelled scabbard and follow Lord Axim as he turns and leaves the King<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly search her body but find no evidence that she was your would-be assassin. You discover 42 Gold Crowns, a Short Sword and a Dagger. Take any of these items if you wish, and mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly dash through the side door of the tavern and run the length of the alleyway towards the main square. Through the crowds of people you can see many boats and coracles tied up to the quayside. The thugs are close behind and you must act quickly.</p>
- <p>Untying one of the small boats, you jump from the harbour wall and land with a crash, splintering the wooden seat. It has one paddle which you use to make your way towards the Green Sceptre, anchored three hundred yards across the water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man pulls a hidden bell-rope, and suddenly four armed guards burst into the room.</p>
- <p><quote>These documents are forgeries. No doubt you are a spy, or worse perhaps? No matter, you<ch.apos/>ll soon find out how we deal with criminals in Port Bax. Take him away.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can explain, you are seized by both arms and marched away to the city gaol. All your equipment is confiscated, including all Special Items and Weapons, and you are thrown into a cell full of evil-looking villains. You notice that several of these ruffians bear the strange tattoo of a serpent on their left wrist: the sign of Vonotar the Traitor. By the time the guards have examined your possessions and realized your true identity, you have been strangled to death by the wizard<ch.apos/>s evil agents.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest come to a tragic end here in Port Bax.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake at dawn to the sound of heavy rain falling on the cobbled streets outside.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It has been six days since you left Holmgard, and you must eat a Meal here or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You gather your equipment and leave the room. As you descend the rickety stairs, you see the innkeeper cleaning the floor with a mop and bucket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to ask the innkeeper how you can get to Durenor, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to leave the inn without speaking to him, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A golden glow runs the length of the Sommerswerd as you raise it high above your head, ready to face your enemy. You are confronted by six grisly zombies and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zombie Crew</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>They are undead creatures, so remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points they lose as a result of the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you win, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass several narrow warehouses lining the waterfront, and reach the harbour wall. Here the road bears sharply to the right into Tomb Street.</p>
- <p>Marching along the centre of this street are four heavily armed city guards. Rather than be stopped and possibly arrested by these soldiers, you dodge into an alleyway off to your right. The guards suddenly halt opposite the alley entrance. If one of them should turn his head, you will be spotted for sure. Behind you is a small window, leading into a crowded tavern.</p>
- <p>Without a second<ch.apos/>s hesitation, you climb through the window as quickly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4"><link-text>Turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The priest approaches you and says, <quote>You need to rest, as we all do. I understand your problem my friend. Please allow me to practice what I humbly preach,</quote> and with these words he leads you to the bar and places a Gold Crown into the hand of the innkeeper. <quote>A room for my friend,</quote> he says and smiles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ask them what they want of you. In answer, they simultaneously produce long, curved daggers from inside their jackets. Their leader steps forward and demands your gold. As you hesitate, he shouts, <quote>Take <ch.apos/>im!</quote> and all three attack you.</p>
- <p>Deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight them bare handed. You must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Street Thief Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Street Thief 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Street Thief 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">You may evade them during the combat by <link-text>turning to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you kill all three thieves, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash to the muddy street in a shower of broken glass. You are winded by the fall, but otherwise unharmed. An angry villager armed with a cudgel tries to smash your skull, but you roll aside, jump to your feet and sprint away down the twisting street before he has struck his blow. Then an ugly Szall on horseback charges towards you with a raised spear. He is about to stab you when you sidestep and grab the weapon, pulling it and the Szall from the saddle.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep the Spear, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to stab the Szall with his own spear, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to mount his horse and escape, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Looking directly into the sailor<ch.apos/>s eyes, you concentrate your Mindblast at his open hand. Suddenly the man falls backwards from his chair, clutching his hand as if he had just picked up a red-hot coal. When you explain what has happened to him, he looks at you in amazement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly from out of the darkness there is a blood-chilling cry. You find yourself staring into the glowing eyes of a Helghast. As it tries to close its fingers around your throat, you scream in terror and fall to the ground. The hideous creature tears at your tunic, rending the cloth with its black claws.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>You find yourself staring into the</line>
- <line>glowing eyes of a Helghast</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="677" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="677" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you have a Magic Spear, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The knight points to the woods behind you and says in a gruff voice, <quote>There is your shelter.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can reply, he has stepped back into the tower and bolted the heavy door. The forest here is very dense and the undergrowth is a tangle of weeds and briars. It will prove impossible to enter the wood on horseback, so you must abandon your mount before continuing on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The fare to Port Bax is 20 Gold Crowns,</quote> says the coachman in a gruff Ragadornian accent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you have 20 Gold Crowns and wish to purchase a ticket, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you do not have enough money for the fare, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach a junction where Beggar Lane turns south into Black Knight Street. A few yards along there is another lane called Anchor Street, which heads off towards the east. The rain has become much heavier now.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to head south along Black Knight Street, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to head east along Anchor Street <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been walking for nearly two hours when you reach the peak of a hill and see the Durenor forest stretched out before you. The road bears eastwards and enters the trees at a point where a large wooden tower has been built. You can see the silhouette of a soldier on guard.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to continue on your journey towards the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you would rather avoid the guard, make a wide detour and enter the forest further south by <link-text>turning to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The training that you received in the art of Hunting has taught you to recognize most of the poisonous and non-poisonous fruits to be found in northern Magnamund. These purple fruits are Larnuma, a sweet and nutritious food. You quickly eat your fill and then store enough of them in your Backpack for 2 Meals.</p>
- <p>Beyond the Larnuma trees, you notice a wide coast road that disappears towards the east and the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to head east, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to head west, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both guards stare at the Seal in awe. The legend of the Seal of Hammerdal is well known to all the people of Durenor. It is said that of all the lost treasures of Durenor, the Seal of Hammerdal is the one they would not wish returned. The anxious faces of the two guards show they clearly realize its significance.</p>
- <p>One of the guards escorts you across the Rymerift and along a forest road that eventually ends at a junction. A signpost points to the east.</p>
- <signpost>PORT BAX<ch.emdash/>3 MILES</signpost>
- <p><quote>I must leave you now and return to the Rymerift. I fear that war will soon cast its black shadow upon this land and I shall be needed at the border. Godspeed to you Sommlending, godspeed.</quote></p>
- <p>You watch for a few minutes as the soldier returns along the forest track before you set off eastwards. You should arrive in Port Bax within the hour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the mast smashes into the deck, a splintered beam hits your head and you are knocked overboard. Gasping for air, you fight your way to the surface and catch hold of a hatch cover. You are half-stunned. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You pull yourself <!--ERRTAG-RE-165537-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-165537--> this makeshift raft and cling to it with all your strength. If you are wearing a Chainmail Waistcoat, you must discard it now or otherwise you will be drowned for sure.</p>
- <p>You feel dizzy and sick. As the heaving sea buffets you relentlessly, you gradually slip into unconsciousness. When you awake many hours later, the storm has passed. By the position of the sun, you judge it to be late afternoon. In the distance you can see a small fishing boat and beyond it, on the horizon, land. The only trace of the Green Sceptre is the hatch cover on which you now sit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to use your cloak to try to signal to the fishing boat, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to ignore the boat and paddle towards the shore, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man takes your money and hands you a white pass that is valid for the next seven days. You thank him and leave the building. Outside you turn left and walk towards the guards at the end of the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head south and follow the quayside until you come to a junction where the street heads off towards the east. Most of the shops in this street are still closed except for one to your right. There is a sign above the door.</p>
- <signpost>Jinelda Koop<ch.emdash/>Alchemist: Magical Potions Bought and Sold</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to enter the shop, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A large Noodnic, wearing a brightly coloured cloak of patchwork silks, orders several of his people to arm themselves and drive you out of the hall. When you speak to them in their own language, a hush of astonishment fills the cavern. Never before have they encountered a human being who could actually speak their tongue. For some of them it is too much to grasp, and they stare at you open-mouthed, their furry little arms hanging loosely by their sides.</p>
- <p>Then the large Noodnic addresses you, saying he is the leader of this colony. His name is Gashgiss and he welcomes you and invites you to join him on top of a raised platform in the centre of the chamber.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The large Noodnic, wearing a brightly coloured</line>
- <line>cloak of patchwork silks, addresses you</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Yooze notta Dureneeze man-man, eh? Whereza yooze come za from, eh?</quote> questions Gashgiss, in his strange Noodnic accent.</p>
- <p>You tell him that you are a Sommlending on your way to Hammerdal. He looks at you nervously, then asks, <quote>Yooze notta Blackscreamerz, eh?</quote> You realize that the <quote>Blackscreamerz</quote> that Gashgiss refers to are Helghast. You learn that two of them arrived in Tarnalin over two hours ago, and caused quite a panic in the main tunnel. Gashgiss knows where they are lying in ambush, waiting for you to appear.</p>
- <p><quote>Iza show yooze z<ch.apos/>way past zem, eh?</quote> he offers. You nod your agreement and follow him down the steps of the platform, to the hall below.</p>
- <p>The Noodnics seem to have overcome their shock and react to you now as if you were one of them. Before you leave, a pretty female Noodnic offers you some food for your journey ahead. There is enough for two Meals. You thank her for her generosity and then follow Gashgiss along one of the many passages leading out of the cavern. After an hour of trekking through the dark, he stops and points towards a shaft of light that is pouring through a crevice in the far distance. <quote>Yooze goez left, yooze be zafe,</quote> he says.</p>
- <p>You thank Gashgiss for his help and silently thank your Kai masters who taught you the skill of Animal Kinship. The many years of instruction have probably saved your life. You squeeze through a fissure in the rock wall and drop three feet to the pathway below. You are thinking how kind the Noodnics were when you discover that they have stolen all your gold! You will have to mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">Continue along the tunnel and <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect145-1-foot" idref="sect145-1">
- <p>Due to the loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> after taking the potion, it is probably intended that you may not restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from eating the Laumspur as you normally would.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are becoming weaker and weaker. After what seems an eternity of painful struggle you find the Laumspur and force yourself to swallow the dry leaves. Within seconds you are violently sick, after which you drift off into a restless sleep.</p>
- <p>It is nearly an hour before you awake and you still feel dreadfully ill. Deduct 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<footref id="sect145-1" idref="sect145-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>As you slowly regain your strength, the shock of what has happened soon turns to anger. You grab your equipment and stagger out of the room, intent on confronting your would-be assassin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You were right. The cloud is made of huge Zlanbeast and many Kraan, a smaller species but one that is just as deadly. Hanging below their black bellies are nets full of Giaks. As the Zlanbeast descend on the Green Sceptre, a net of shrieking Giaks crashes <!--ERRTAG-RE-172186-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172186--> the deck behind you. Some are crushed in the fall, but many more have survived and waste no time attacking you. You must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small15.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small15.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Giaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">15</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses reveal that the path is a dead end. The only way that you can cross the Rymerift and reach Port Bax is via the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wrap yourself in your Kai cloak and raise the hood. The driver shouts and whips the horses and soon you are on your way along the tree-lined coast road to Ragadorn. During the journey, you talk to the driver and learn some useful things about the seaport of Ragadorn.</p>
- <p>Ever since Killean the Overlord died three years ago, Ragadorn has been ruled (or misruled according to the driver) by his son, Lachlan. It seems that he and his men are nothing more than pirates. They tax the people heavily, and murder all who oppose them.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and during the coach ride, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>At last, in the distance, you can just make out the city wall of Ragadorn. A bell is tolling<ch.emdash/>it rings twelve times. Eventually the coach passes through the west gate of the wall and pulls to a halt.</p>
- <p><quote>If you want to get to Durenor, you can catch a coach from the stable at the east gate. Best hurry mind, it leaves at one o<ch.apos/>clock,</quote> the driver tells you.</p>
- <p>You thank the driver for the advice and jump to the cobblestones below. For the first time, you suddenly notice the awful stench of this dirty seaport. A rusty sign nailed to a rot-infested house says <quote>Welcome to Ragadorn</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to go north along Westgate Lane, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to head south along East Bank Walk, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to head east into Axe Lane, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can sense that this guard is a loyal Durenese soldier. If you were to attempt to bribe him, he would be likely to consider it a grave insult and attack you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to show him the Seal of Hammerdal, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you would prefer not to show it, if you do not have it, or if you wish to pretend to be a merchant on your way to Port Bax, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect150-1-foot" idref="sect150-1">
- <p>You may now resume the use of Hunting to fulfil the Meal requirement, as you are now headed into the Durenor Forest east of the Wildlands.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spur the horse along the twisting village street across a wooden bridge and up a steep path towards the crest of the cove. In the light of the moon, you catch a glimpse of a signpost pointing eastwards.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="none" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Port Bax<ch.emdash/>50 Mls</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>You ride all night without sleep. As the dawn breaks, you are greeted by a startling change of landscape. The barren Wildlands have given way to moors and waterlogged fens. And a dark shadow runs the length of the eastern horizon for as far as the eye can see. This is the Durenor forest, the natural frontier of the mountain kingdom where it borders the untamed Wildlands. It is indeed a welcome sight.<footref id="sect150-1" idref="sect150-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>You are no more than a day<ch.apos/>s ride from Port Bax, but you are tired after your night ride and you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> Points. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, you may use this skill to trap a wild moor-rat or marsh-bird for your breakfast.</p>
- <p>After an hour<ch.apos/>s ride you come to a fork in the road. There is no signpost.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to take the left fork, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to take the right fork, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your skill to mimic the gruff Ragadornian accent, you bluff the guard, saying that there is a fight in Tomb Square. You say that the city watch have been overpowered, and that he is needed at once.</p>
- <p>To see if your bluff has been successful, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If the number you have chosen is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is early in the morning of the thirty-third day of your quest, when you ride into Port Bax with Lord Axim at your side.</p>
- <p>The preparations for war have been completed. The galleons of the Durenese war fleet lie at anchor in the harbour, impatiently awaiting the order to set sail for Sommerlund. On board each ship are many brave soldiers from the mountain kingdom, a tough army of skilled warriors, eager to face the Darklords in battle. Each man has sworn to avenge their besieged allies, or die in the attempt.</p>
- <p>You are to sail back to Holmgard aboard the flagship Durenor, a warship whose great curving prow and tall masts emphasize its sheer power and strength. You and Lord Axim are taken aboard and welcomed by Admiral Calfen, commander of the fleet, and then the fleet prepares to set sail.</p>
- <p>In less than an hour, the harbour lies far behind you. The domes of Port Bax are now merely dots on the horizon.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If the number is 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You forget about the rogue with his cup and marble game and instead watch a card game in progress near the tavern stairs. You notice that one of the players is cheating.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to challenge the man, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you would rather ignore what you have seen, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crew<ch.apos/>s quarters are cramped and stifling. But despite a lack of space and a poor evening meal (so poor in fact that you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points!) the men are pleased that their invitation was accepted and you are treated as an honoured guest.</p>
- <p>After supper, they invite you to play <quote>Portholes</quote> with them, and wager a little gold on the fall of the dice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to try your luck, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you would prefer to decline the offer, bid them goodnight and return to your cabin by <link-text>turning to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After travelling a mile along the left track, you arrive at a long stone bridge. At first glance, the river that it crosses seems to be swollen and in danger of flooding the banks. Then you realize that this is the Rymerift. The waters of the Rymerift are two miles across at the widest point and over a mile deep for most of its length. Here, the land has slipped away and a natural gap has appeared separating Durenor from the rest of Magnamund.</p>
- <p>There is a signpost at the entrance to the stone bridge.</p>
- <signpost>Port Bax<ch.emdash/>3 Miles</signpost>
- <p>You breathe a sigh of relief, for you are on the correct path and should be in the city within the hour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The driver becomes very angry and shouts, <quote>There<ch.apos/>s a long walk ahead of you, stranger,</quote> as he slams the door in your face. You cannot afford to buy a room for the night, so you decide to bed down with the horses in the stable next door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard is furious and charges down the stairs at you, his sword raised above his head. If you do not have a weapon, remember to deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight the guard open-handed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Watchtower Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect65">You may evade this combat at any time by <link-text>turning to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The priest does not seem to be surprised by your attack, and he draws a black sword from beneath his robes.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Priest</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You eventually come to a halt at the base of a huge fir tree. You try to stand, but the pain in your legs and side is so great that you collapse and lose consciousness. It is a sleep that will spare you the pain of the Helghast blades, but it is also a sleep from which there is no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Forgive me my lord, I did not mean to startle you.</quote> The man seems nervous, and the open hand that is extended towards you is shaking quite visibly.</p>
- <p>With some caution you accept the gesture of friendship, and sit with the man at a tavern table. The place is deserted save for a couple of mice gnawing at a large chunk of cheese.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small17.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small17.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Captain Kelman has instructed me to take you to the Green Sceptre, but only if I am sure that you are the Kai Lord they call Lone Wolf. Can you prove your identity?</quote> You decide you must show your mastery of one of your Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to demonstrate your Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you wish to demonstrate your Kai Discipline of Mindblast, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you wish to demonstrate your Kai Weaponskill, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to demonstrate your Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to demonstrate your Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you do not possess any of the above Kai skills, or if you do not wish to demonstrate your skill, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shop appears to be empty. You wait and look at the merchandise for nearly five minutes, but still no one appears. You are about to leave when you notice a map hanging inside the door. It is a plan of the Port of Ragadorn. The Ragadorn stables and coach station is clearly marked near the east gate of the city. This is where land transport can be found to take you to Port Bax. You memorize the map route to the east gate and leave the shop. You run back to Axe Lane and turn east into Sage Street. At the end of this winding lane you arrive at the Ragadorn Bridge, the only connection between the east and west sides of the city. You push your way across the crowded bridge and run along the cobblestones of East Trade Lane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He bellows his battle-cry and lunges at your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Knight of the White Mountain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect244">You may evade combat at any time by running into the trees and <link-text>turning to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>ve a full sail and a sharp prow. There<ch.apos/>s not a warship on the northern seas that<ch.apos/>ll catch the Green Sceptre,</quote> said the captain.</p>
- <p>He is proved right, for the pirate ship soon disappears over the horizon. <quote>Twenty-five years at sea and I<ch.apos/>ve never known the Lakuri pirates to venture this far north to raid,</quote> he said, stroking his beard thoughtfully. <quote>They must be after a valuable cargo to sail so far from their tropical islands.</quote></p>
- <p>As the captain descends below deck to his cabin, you get an uneasy feeling that the valuable cargo may be you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have walked for nearly a mile along this deserted tunnel when you see a flight of steps cut into the rock-face to your left. They lead to a platform which runs the length of the tunnel ceiling. It is used to service the torches.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to climb the steps and investigate the platform, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to ignore the steps and continue on your journey, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Placing the gold in your pouch, you remove the Seal and hand it to her. She snatches it and examines it closely. As you leave the shop, you hear her sniggering quietly to herself, and you wonder if you have done the right thing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way up a flight of stairs and <!--ERRTAG-RE-190168-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-190168--> the crowded deck. Fierce battle rages all around you as the Durenese fleet is engulfed by the rush of ghostly death-hulks. Suddenly a flash of searing flame shoots from a tower at the rear of the death-hulk you are on, and explodes into the side of a Durenese warship less than fifty yards away. You watch with horror as soldiers leap from the deck, their clothes and hair in flames.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>Soldiers leap from the deck, their</line>
- <line>clothes and hair in flames</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="658" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="658" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to investigate the tower, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to escape from this ship, jump overboard by <link-text>turning to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You play a daring strategy, Lone Wolf. But I think I have you now.</quote></p>
- <p>Captain Kelman moves his ornate keystone across to your side of the board with a triumphant smile. But it soon fades to a look of shock as you unexpectedly counter his move. <quote>Stalemate,</quote> you reply coolly. The captain stares at the board in disbelief.</p>
- <p><quote>The skills of the Kai never cease to amaze me,</quote> he says, slowly scratching his head. He is still staring at the Samor board when you finally bid him goodnight and return to your cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly, one by one, the other travellers appear and stare in shock at the dead coachman. <quote>We must bury him,</quote> says the priest.</p>
- <p>You silently nod your agreement and prepare a grave in which to lay the corpse. As you all walk back to the coach, you discuss what should be done.</p>
- <p><quote>I know the road to Port Bax. I had better drive the coach,</quote> volunteers Halvorc.</p>
- <p><quote>I do hope we<ch.apos/>re not blamed for his death,</quote> says the priest nervously.</p>
- <p><quote>It was an act of the gods,</quote> says Dorier.</p>
- <p><quote>I shall testify to that,</quote> says Ganon. <quote>Lies are never spoken by Knights of the White Mountain.</quote></p>
- <p>It is true that in Durenor, a true knight will speak only the truth whether for his own good or ill. His words seem to reassure the priest and you are all soon once more on the road heading towards the eastern horizon. It is late in the afternoon when you arrive at a coach station in a small coastal village known as Gorn Cove, which is mainly populated by outcasts, thieves and Szalls.</p>
- <p>The death of the coachman is met by the villagers, with great suspicion, but Dorier<ch.apos/>s words convince them that it was accidental.</p>
- <p>There is only one inn at the village, a tavern known as the Forlorn Hope. Its state of disrepair is typical of all the other hovels in this poor sea village. A room for the night costs 1 Gold Crown.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you can pay for the room, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you cannot, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the gaming-house and walk dejectedly back towards the coach station. In the distance you can see the east gate of the city. Waiting below it is the coach to Durenor. You must get to Port Bax<ch.emdash/>the future of Sommerlund depends on it. You slip past the guard and board the coach without him seeing you enter. As the departure time gets nearer, five other passengers climb into the coach and seat themselves around you. The guard slams the door and you begin your journey to Port Bax.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If the number is 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard looks at your white card and sneers, <quote>This is a merchant<ch.apos/>s pass. It<ch.apos/>s of no use to you here. You must have a red pass to gain access to the naval quadrant.</quote> He flicks the card back at you and returns to his post at the gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Behind the trees you notice a wide coast road running from east to west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to head east, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to head west, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense warns you that there is something evil hiding in the darkness of the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to climb the stone steps and confront it, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to sprint past the steps and platform, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you want to run back to the junction and take the left path, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a magnificent emporium in which are displayed some of the finest goods of northern Magnamund. Even at this late hour, the trading post is busy, as captains and rich merchants haggle over the sale or exchange of their cargoes. The owner of the trading post appears to be a young warrior, who presides over the auction of goods from an ornate chair held up by four massive chains. His men are all dressed in black armour, and on their shields they bear the emblem of a black ship on a red crest.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Then, by chance, you notice a small boy steal a money pouch from the belt of a merchant, and slip it into his boot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you decide to grab the boy and make him hand back the pouch, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you follow the boy outside and steal the pouch from him, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you just ignore what you have seen, and examine the goods for sale, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The knight steps towards you and says, <quote>I<ch.apos/>ve yet to meet a peasant who could afford to buy his own horse. You are not a peasant, but I<ch.apos/>d wager you to be a thief.</quote></p>
- <p>With a flick of his broadsword, he unhorses you and heavily you fall to the ground. Instinctively, you draw your weapon in self-defence as the knight attacks you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>It seems our bird has flown,</quote> says the captain, pointing to a longboat moving swiftly towards another ship on the horizon. <quote>She flies no flag, and her hull is of a strange shape. I<ch.apos/>ve ne<ch.apos/>er before seen the like.</quote></p>
- <p>You watch as the longboat reaches the mysterious ship. As if by magic a sea fog appears from nowhere and engulfs the vessel. Moments later, both the ship and the fog have disappeared.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days and nights, you have ridden along the highway as it follows its route up the river valley of the Durenon. In the distance are the peaks of the Hammerdal Mountains, one of the highest ranges in all Magnamund. The capital lies at the very centre of those mountains.</p>
- <p>It is now the morning of the fourteenth day of your quest. You have made camp near a waterfall where the fast-flowing Durenon drops over 120 feet. You are about to leave, when a group of six hooded riders appears on the forest highway above, blocking your exit from the camp.</p>
- <p>Lord-lieutenant Rhygar demands that they let you pass, adding that you bear a royal dispatch. In Durenor, it is a treasonable offence to hinder a King<ch.apos/>s messenger, but unfortunately, the cloaked riders do not seem impressed by his warning, and they remain where they are.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>Lord-lieutenant Rhygar demands that they</line>
- <line>let you pass as you bear a royal dispatch</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>If you do not care for reason, perhaps our swords will turn your tails,</quote> says Rhygar. He draws his sword, and orders his men to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to follow Rhygar, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you do not want to attack the riders, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you re-enter the tavern, you can see that most of the sailors are clustered around the centre table to watch an arm-wrestling contest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to enter the contest, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to talk with the innkeeper, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although the delicious smell of the food is making your mouth water, you suspect that something is very wrong. You set the tray down by the door. Your hunger has made you tired, and you decide to take a short nap before meeting the others in the bar.</p>
- <p>When you awake, you see the bodies of two dead rats lying beside the food tray<ch.emdash/>they have been poisoned. The shock soon turns to anger when you realize that the poison was in the food intended for you.</p>
- <p>You grab your equipment and leave the room, intent on discovering your would-be assassin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai Discipline of Camouflage, you can hide undetected in the hay-cart until it is safe to come out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to hide in the hay-wain, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you would rather take a horse and leave the village, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to enter the wheelwright<ch.apos/>s shop, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You conclude that the crew are either blind or have no intention of rescuing you. The fishing boat continues on its course out to sea and, without seeming to notice you, disappears over the horizon. Pulling off a loose plank from the hatch cover, and using it as a makeshift oar, you set about paddling towards the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This street seems dirtier and smellier than the one you have just been down. The cluttered window of a shop to your left catches your attention. In the window are many useful Items, all of which bear a price tag.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword<ch.emdash/>4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Dagger<ch.emdash/>2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Short Sword<ch.emdash/>3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Warhammer<ch.emdash/>6 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Spear<ch.emdash/>5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Mace<ch.emdash/>4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Fur Blanket<ch.emdash/>3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Backpack<ch.emdash/>1 Gold Crown</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may enter and purchase any of the above Items. Remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. When you have completed your purchases, you continue your way along Sage Street, towards the Ragadorn Bridge. This bridge is the only connection between the east and west sides of the port and you push your way through the crowds of people and carts. You find yourself in a rubbish-strewn thoroughfare known as East Trade Lane.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small19.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small19.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must find shelter for the night or you will risk being arrested by the city guard. Your Kai sense tells you that the best course of action is to return to the tavern and ask the innkeeper for a room. Refreshed by a comfortable night<ch.apos/>s sleep, you can then make plans to reach Durenor first thing in the morning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The forest drops away steeply at the edge of your campsite, and in your haste you trip and fall headlong through the trees.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If the number is 9, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Drakkar dies at your feet, the pirates falter at the sight of such a powerful warrior floored, and then flee to their sinking ship. Captain Kelman rallies his crew and leads them against the retreating enemy, driving them into the water with the fury of the attack.</p>
- <p>The Green Sceptre pulls free of the pirate ship, which keels heavily to starboard.</p>
- <p><quote>Our thanks, Kai Lord.</quote> The captain grasps your hand. <quote>We are proud and thankful to have you with us.</quote> A cheer resounds along the deck, and the crew voice their praise.</p>
- <p>You help tend the wounded whilst repairs are carried out to the damaged prow. Within the hour, the wind fills the sails and you are back on course for Durenor once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you race along the corpse-littered deck, two Drakkarim warriors emerge from a doorway and attack you by surprise. You must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect286">You may evade at any stage of the combat by diving into the sea. <link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you kill them both in combat, you can then jump to the deck of a nearby Durenese ship by <link-text>turning to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing opposite a large building with a sign on the wall:</p>
- <signpost>RAGADORN STABLES AND COACH STATION</signpost>
- <p>A green-clad coachman is sitting next to a notice board that reads, <quote>Port Bax<ch.emdash/>Journey Time<ch.emdash/>7 Days</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to approach the coachman and ask to buy a ticket for the journey to Port Bax, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you have no money, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A quick search of their bodies reveals the following Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Spears</li>
- <li>2 Swords</li>
- <li>6 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to take any of these, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>You roll the bodies into the Rymerift and then run across the bridge in case anyone saw the incident. The forest track continues for over an hour before you arrive at a junction, where you see a signpost.</p>
- <signpost>Port Bax<ch.emdash/>3 Miles</signpost>
- <p>You adjust your equipment and set off towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quick wits and skill have saved you from a venomous bite. As the snake disappears into the long grass beyond the road, you gather together your Backpack and climb the tree, where you spend the rest of the night safely above the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Impostor!</quote> he cries, and draws his weapon. Before you can react to his attack, his sword has grazed your arm and you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. He runs at you and knocks you backwards through the open doorway. In a tangle of limbs and curses, you both fall headlong down the watchtower stairs. You stagger to your feet, but the knight is already up and searching for his broadsword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to fight him, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you would rather abandon your horse and run for the safety of the trees, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the edge of a steel rule to prise open the lock, you suddenly feel a sharp pain in your chest. A cunning trap has been laid, and as you open the box, a small needle shoots out and embeds itself in your flesh. It is tipped with a deadly poison. You die instantly.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the avenue, the cobbled street turns abruptly to the right. Opposite this point is a tall, white stone building with a plaque above the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Port Watchtower<ch.emdash/>Harbour Authority</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>You can see that the cobbled street ends at a high stone wall. There is a large red gate in this wall and it is guarded by two soldiers. Beyond the gate, you can make out the masts of ships moored in the harbour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to enter the port watchtower, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to approach the red gate, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The drunken sailors roar with delight, money changes hands and bets are settled. You notice your opponent wink at two of his henchmen. They begin to move towards you. Without a moment<ch.apos/>s hesitation, you rise from the table and punch the sailor so hard in the face that he somersaults backwards crashing into his surprised friends. You leave them sprawled in a heap on the floor.</p>
- <p>As you reach the tavern door, an ugly sailor draws his sword and blocks your escape. But before you have a chance to do anything, there is a loud thud and he falls to his knees. Behind him stands the serving girl, a large wooden club in her hand, smiling at you. You thank her, and wink as you race out of the door and into the darkened street beyond.</p>
- <p>After running blindly in the dark for many minutes, you notice a stable and coach station through the gloom ahead. With the shouts of angry sailors still ringing in your ears, you run to the building and climb a ladder where you spend the night safely hidden in the hay-loft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The voyage to Sommerlund is one of ill omen. Deep black storm clouds gather on the horizon, and a fierce wind relentlessly torments the restless sea. At night, great bolts of lightning tear open the darkness, followed by a rolling thunder so loud that it shakes every timber of the flagship. Many of the soldiers aboard the fleet are mountain-dwellers, unaccustomed to the shift of the sea. By the third day, over half their number are so ill as to be unable to stand. Lord Axim is close to despair.</p>
- <p><quote>How I pray that this storm will lift, for even if the fleet arrives intact, I fear our men will be too weak to break the enemy.</quote></p>
- <p>Then, as if in answer to his prayer, the dawn of the next day heralds an end to the raging storms. But the calm waters now surrounding the fleet contain a danger far greater than any storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect194-1-foot" idref="sect194-1">
- <p>It is likely that the author did not realize that the Crystal Star Pendant and <a idref="map">Map of Sommerlund</a> would or might be among the items lost. You may choose to simply keep either or both of these items if you have them, despite the instructions. Alternatively, you may choose to assume that they are with the Seal of Hammerdal and be recorded on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if and when you find it. If you do choose to interpret the text strictly, you should not look at the <a idref="map">map</a> if you are without the <a idref="map">Map of Sommerlund</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you awake, you are shocked to find yourself lying beneath a wooden jetty, and the shallow water surrounding you fills your nostrils with a foul stench. As you stand, your head throbs violently as if you had been knocked unconscious. This is exactly what has happened to you, and your Gold, your Backpack, your Weapons and all your Special Items (including the Seal of Hammerdal) have been stolen by the fishermen.<footref id="sect194-1" idref="sect194-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>With a groan of despair, you climb out of the slimy water and pull yourself <!--ERRTAG-RE-216376-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216376--> the jetty. Looking up you see a faded sign.</p>
- <signpost>Welcome to Ragadorn</signpost>
- <p>You fear the rumours about this place are true. It is nearly dark and it has started to rain. You must find the Seal if you are to persuade the Durenese to give you the Sommerswerd. Looking round, you see a large market square with a stone signpost in the centre, indicating the various roads that lead off the square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to go east along Barnacle Street <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to go south along Westbank Wharf, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to go north along Booty Walk, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you would rather go west back to the jetty, and search for the fishing boat, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been travelling for nearly two hours when the driver shouts, <quote>Toll bridge ahead. One Crown apiece.</quote></p>
- <p>Looking out of the window, it is pouring down with rain but you can just make out a wooden bridge and a log cabin in the distance. The driver halts the coach at the log cabin and an ugly creature appears at the doorway. It is a warty-skinned Szall, a harmless and cowardly breed of Giak. They have been natives of the Wildlands since the Age of the Black Moon, when thousands of their kind migrated from the Durncrag Mountains to avoid the tyranny of Vashna, the mightiest of the Darklords.</p>
- <p>The Szall demands one Gold Crown from each passenger before the coach will be allowed to pass. The other passengers each place one Crown upon a small plate and hand it to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you have enough gold to pay the toll, do so and continue on your journey by <link-text>turning to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you have no money, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect196-1-foot" idref="sect196-1">
- <p>Remember to erase the Seal of Hammerdal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart.</a></p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>King Alin IV sits alone in his domed tower, viewing his mountain domain through one of the many portals of tinted glass. You and Lord Axim are formally announced as you enter the chamber, and you respectfully bow to his Majesty. Then, Lord Axim removes the Seal of Hammerdal from your finger and walks over to the King<ch.apos/>s side.<footref id="sect196-1" idref="sect196-1-foot"/> For nearly an hour they talk, their sombre faces reflecting the seriousness of the situation. There is a short pause of silent meditation, and King Alin suddenly rises from his throne and addresses you for the first time.</p>
- <p><quote>Alas, the Darklords have woken once more, and once more does Sommerlund come in search of our aid. I had prayed that my reign would be remembered as a time of peace and fulfilment, but in my heart I knew it was to be otherwise.</quote></p>
- <p>The King removes a golden key from the pocket of his white robe and inserts it in a marble dais standing in the centre of the chamber. A gentle humming fills the room, as the stone cover slides back to reveal the hilt of a golden sword.</p>
- <p><quote>Take the sword, Lone Wolf. It is foretold that only a true son of Sommerlund can release the powers that lie within its blade.</quote></p>
- <p>As you grasp the glowing hilt, a tingling sensation runs up your arm and radiates throughout your body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As dawn breaks, a fierce storm rises and you are woken by the violent rocking of the ship. The floor of your cabin is awash, and the shouts of the crew can hardly be heard above the howling wind. You quickly dress, gather up your equipment and make your way to the deck.</p>
- <p>You are soon joined by the captain, who takes hold of your arm and orders you to return to your cabin. Suddenly, as you start to go down, there is a thunderous crack as, high in the rigging, part of the mast snaps. You look up to see the shattered pole falling towards you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If the number you have picked is 1<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If the number is 0, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than twenty yards when your horse rears up and bolts. You are thrown to the ground and you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Brushing the dirt from your cloak, you curse as the animal disappears out of sight. You will have to continue your journey from here on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper pockets the Crown and says in a mocking voice, <quote>You can get there by putting one foot in front of the other<ch.emdash/>like this,</quote> and with a loud laugh he walks behind the counter and disappears into the kitchen beyond. You curse his trickery and leave the inn, pausing only, in your anger, to kick over his bucket of dirty water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143"><link-text>Turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By the time you reach the bar, the others are all seated at a large table awaiting your appearance. Drawing closer to the table, you realize you have found your would-be assassin. You will have to attack without giving any warning to your enemy, so study your fellow travellers carefully and then make your decision.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The others are all seated at a large table</line>
- <line>awaiting your appearance</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="772" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="772" height="589" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <blockquote>
- <p>[The following descriptions are of the illustration that originally appeared in the print editions:</p>
- <p>Viveka is seated at one end of the table, with a wary expression on her face. One arm is on the table near a large mug of ale, with her finger tapping the edge. As usual, she is dressed in battle gear.</p>
- <p>Ganon is seated between Viveka and Halvorc, with a sombre look on his face. He is in the uniform of the Knights of the White Mountain and has a meal and wine cup in front of him.</p>
- <p>Dorier is standing behind his brother Ganon, with a more gentle expression. The hilt of his sword is visible between his Knight of the White Mountain uniform and his cloak. Another wine cup on the table appears to belong to him.</p>
- <p>Halvorc is seated comfortably between Ganon and Parsion, giving you an ugly sneer. His hand strays close to a small ale mug.</p>
- <p>Parsion is sitting on the side of the table close to you, but with his body turned to the side, opposite Viveka. His hand, which has a snake painted or tattooed on the wrist, is holding a medium-sized ale mug. He regards you out of the corner of his eye from beneath the large hood of his robe.]</p>
- </blockquote>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to attack the Knight of the White Mountain called Dorier, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to attack the merchant called Halvorc, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to attack the adventuress called Viveka, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you with to attack the priest called Parsion, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to attack the Knight of the White Mountain called Ganon, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise, the snake hisses and strikes at your arm. You dodge to one side, but are you quick enough to avoid its deadly fangs?</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to find out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldier salutes and allows you to pass through the red gate. You walk into an open square lit by the tall beacons lining the quayside. To your relief, you sight the marble pillars of the Sommerlund Consulate, and the familiar sun-flag of your country flying above it in the fresh night breeze.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small21.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small21.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you climb the stone steps, you are recognized by the Sommlending guards on duty at the main door. They disappear inside and quickly return in the company of a tall grey-haired official. His anguished expression suddenly changes to a smile of joy as he beholds your ragged Kai cloak and tunic.</p>
- <p><quote>Hope beyond hope! Thank the gods that you live, Kai Lord. The scant news that has reached us from the west has caused us great alarm.</quote></p>
- <p>You are ushered inside and taken immediately to the envoy of Sommerlund, Lord-lieutenant Rhygar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Feeling hungry?</quote> you say, peering at the two busy house mice in the far corner. <quote>Perhaps you would care for some cheese?</quote></p>
- <p>Using your Kai Discipline, you order the two mice to bring the cheese to you. The sailor looks on in amazement as the two furry creatures deposit the cheese at your feet and then scurry away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The keen sight you have developed through your Kai Discipline of Tracking has enabled you to identify the talisman that sits on top of the black staff. It is the crescent and crystal star emblem of the Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran in northern Sommerlund. This man is a renegade of the guild and a traitor to your country.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to climb the tower and attack this treacherous magician, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you do not wish to risk your life against this powerful sorcerer, jump overboard by <link-text>turning to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper frowns at you and points to a side door. <quote>If you can<ch.apos/>t afford a room, you can go and sleep in the stable.</quote></p>
- <p>As you walk towards the exit, you feel the stare of the other passengers burning into your back. The door is slammed shut and you stand shivering in the cold night air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are woken during the night by the baying of wolves in the distance. Rather than risk being torn to pieces in your sleep, you climb the tree and spend the rest of the night in safety, high above the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have walked less than a hundred yards when the track disappears over the edge of a precipice towards the deep waters of the Rymerift below. It is impossible to go on any further in this direction. You will have to return along the path and cross the river at the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have just passed the wagon when you hear a noise behind you. Spinning around, you scan the walls and ceiling but you can see nothing in the gloom of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crew start to whisper. You hear the words <quote>ghost-ship</quote> and <quote>cursed voyage</quote>, but the muttering stops when the captain<ch.apos/>s voice booms out an order for all hands on deck. Only the creaking of the timbers can be heard as Captain Kelman climbs to the rear deck to address the crew.</p>
- <p><quote>Men, we<ch.apos/>re three days<ch.apos/> sail from Port Bax. The fire has robbed us of our provisions and our freshwater has been fouled. We shall have to steer a new course for Ragadorn, where we shall make good our repairs and replenish our stores. That is all.</quote></p>
- <p>The crew seem pleased by the captain<ch.apos/>s announcement, and set about their duties with renewed vigour.</p>
- <p>Then the captain turns to you. <quote>We<ch.apos/>re about eight hours from Ragadorn, my lord. My orders are to see you safely to Port Bax and pass you into the care of the Sommlending consul, Lord-lieutenant Rhygar. But time is not our ally and I fear the repairs may take a week or more to complete. When we drop anchor, you will have to find your own route to Durenor<ch.emdash/>by sea with us or alone by the coast road.</quote></p>
- <p>As you return to your cabin, the King<ch.apos/>s words haunt your thoughts: <quote>Forty days, Lone Wolf. We only have strength to stand against them for forty days.</quote> You do not have long to complete your dangerous mission.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place both hands on your stomach and try to fight back the pain as you concentrate on focusing your skill. The familiar warmth of your healing power numbs the pain, but the poison is very strong and your struggle is not yet over.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. May the luck of the gods steer your choice, for your life now hangs on the number that you pick.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The consulate of Sommerlund?</quote> he says in surprise, somewhat taken aback by your sudden appearance. Then, recovering himself, he says, <quote>Why, of course! It is in Alin Square, near the harbour. Turn right when you leave and right again at the end of the avenue. That will take you to the Red Gate. You<ch.apos/>ll need a red pass to enter, as the consulate is in the naval quadrant of the city. It<ch.apos/>s a restricted area.</quote></p>
- <p>You ask the man how you can obtain a red pass.</p>
- <p><quote>From the captain of the port watch,</quote> he says. <quote>You<ch.apos/>re obviously a stranger to Port Bax; there are few indeed that do not know the answer to that question. The port watchtower is at the end of the avenue, just as you turn for the Red Gate.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the old man and leave the city hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you are without a weapon and he is an expert swordsman. The fight is desperate and short. He runs you through the body with a swift lunge, and as he kicks you from the roof of the wagon, you feel nothing. You are already dead.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb to the top of a pile of sheaves of hay and pull your warm Kai cloak around your shoulders to keep out the chill wind. You quickly fall asleep, little knowing you will never open your eyes again. One of the other passengers on the coach who is an agent of the Darklords creeps out and assassinates you in the dark chill of the night. Do you know who it was?</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest have come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once you are inside, you are immediately aware that this is not a shop at all. The room is cold and bare except for a large table in the centre. You notice sinister large iron manacles attached to each of its corners.</p>
- <p>You are in the headquarters of the Silent Brotherhood, Lachlan<ch.apos/>s notorious secret police. With a mounting feeling of terror, you remember the tale of another Kai Lord; of how he had been captured and accused of spying. He had escaped after being tortured for three days and nights. You are not to be so fortunate. The door has automatically locked and soon the Silent Brothers, who are at this moment observing you through peep-holes in the wall, will come for you.</p>
- <p>It may interest you to know that after a long week in the prison of the chief inquisitor you did not let a single Kai secret pass your lips. It is a record that has yet to be equalled, but not one that spared your life.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Thirty yards along on the left side of the street, you hear the sound of merriment drifting out of a large ramshackle building. There is a creaking sign above the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small22.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small22.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>The North Star Tavern</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you want to enter the tavern, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to continue along Barnacle Street <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days and nights the mighty fleet of Durenor steers swiftly towards the Holmgulf, a strong wind filling the sails of the warships. But although the voyage is fast, the soldiers<ch.apos/> confidence and eagerness for battle has slowly faded as if their will has been drained by some invisible vampire. Lord Axim is close to despair.</p>
- <p><quote>This black mood that haunts our decks is the evil work of the Darklords. I know of their power to turn a man<ch.apos/>s mind, but the curse that befalls us is a sorcery we cannot even see to destroy. How I pray that this spell would end, for even if we arrive at our destination, I fear that we are too weak in mind to break our foe.</quote></p>
- <p>As if in answer to his prayer, the black curse seems to be lifted from the fleet with the dawning of the next day. But the spell is replaced by a threat far deadlier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The big man looks at you and says in a cynical voice: <quote>The coach station. A coach leaves for Port Bax this afternoon. For a Gold Crown I<ch.apos/>ll tell you how to get there.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to pay him, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to leave the inn now, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look up from the dead captain to see the macabre faces of the other crew members. They are surrounding you. There are at least twenty of them and they are armed with cutlasses and axes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">You can fight them by <link-text>turning to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">Or you can attempt to evade by grabbing a nearby rope, and swinging across to the deck of a Durenese warship. <link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Already the venom is taking effect. Your wounded arm feels stiff and a cold sweat has broken out on your brow. Quickly you remove the Pendant that Banedon gave you at the Ruins of Raumas. Using a sharp point of the star, you cut a deep V through the two puncture holes made by the fangs, and suck out the venom.</p>
- <p>The charm is lucky indeed<ch.emdash/>and so are you. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points but not your life. You decide to climb the tree and spend the rest of the night safely above the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Searching the body, you discover all you need to prove that he was the assassin. Inside his pockets, you find a half-empty vial of gnadurn sap, the deadly poison that was used to taint your food. Then there is a scroll written in Giak, giving details of your expected arrival in Port Bax. He must have located you at Ragadorn and hatched his murder plans there. You notice that the weapon he carries is a Darklord blade, fashioned of black steel and forged in the furnaces of Helgedad, the infernal city of the Darklords beyond the Durncrag range. Only there in all of vast Magnamund can black steel be made. But the final proof of his true identity is the serpent tattoo on his left wrist. The harbour thugs who attempted to kill you before you had even left Holmgard bore exactly the same mark.</p>
- <p>His purse contains 23 Gold Crowns which you may keep. Do not forget to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The floor of the tavern is covered with the blood and bodies of the people you have killed. Outside in the main street you can hear the chant of a mob. The local inhabitants believe that you are a mad murderer and they intend to lynch you. Quickly, you make your escape through the rear door as the sound of the mob gets closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88"><link-text>Turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After taking care to close his door, the captain opens the mysterious bundle and tips the contents <!--ERRTAG-RE-242228-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-242228--> his cabin table. A large charred earthenware jug and several blackened rags drop in a heap. They give off a strange oily smell.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>Captain Kelman opens the mysterious bundle and</line>
- <line>a large charred earthenware jug drops out</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="596" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="596" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>This was no accidental fire,</quote> he says solemnly. <quote>This was an act of sabotage. The forward hold is a food store yet I find this oil jug and these soaked rags upon the floor. Someone on this ship is prepared to risk his life to stop us reaching Durenor.</quote></p>
- <p>You both stare at the burnt rags as if they hold the answer to your questions. Suddenly a cry from up on deck breaks the silence.</p>
- <p><quote>Ship Ahoy! Ship off the port bow!</quote></p>
- <p>Grabbing his sword and telescope, the captain disappears through the door and up the ladder to the deck above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to follow him, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you would rather make a quick search of his cabin, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard stares at the magnificent ring in awe. The legend of the Seal of Hammerdal is well known to the people of Durenor. It is said that of all the lost treasures of the Durenese, the Seal of Hammerdal is one that they would not wish returned. The guard<ch.apos/>s anxious face shows he clearly recognizes the ring<ch.apos/>s dreadful significance.</p>
- <p><quote>I will not hinder your urgent mission, but I cannot help you except to set you on the road for Port Bax. Continue on this forest path and you will come to a fork near a stunted oak tree. Take the left track<ch.emdash/>it is the quickest way.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the loyal guard, and push on once more into the forest. A mile or so along the road, you come to the fork and take the left track. It leads to a stone bridge across the Rymerift. The waters of the Rymerift are over one mile deep and up to two miles at its widest point. Near to the bridge you find a signpost.</p>
- <signpost>Port Bax<ch.emdash/>3 Miles</signpost>
- <p>You breathe a sigh of relief for you should arrive there in under an hour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following morning you are woken by the cry of seagulls as they wheel and soar above the clipper. The wind is strong and it fills the sails. You breakfast with Captain Kelman who is in better spirits than the previous day. He tells you that the Green Sceptre is making good speed and should arrive at Port Bax, the main Durenese seaport, within a week. Suddenly you hear a cry from the crow<ch.apos/>s nest.</p>
- <p><quote>Land off the port bow! Land a<ch.apos/>port!</quote></p>
- <p>You and the captain climb up on deck and brace yourselves against the fresh sea breeze.</p>
- <p><quote>That<ch.apos/>s Mannon, the southernmost island of the Kirlundin chain,</quote> says the captain, pointing towards the sharp rocky coastline in the distance. <quote><quote>Wreck Point</quote> the traders call it. Many a ship has ended her days upon those granite teeth.</quote></p>
- <p>Captain Kelman hands you an ornate telescope with which to take a closer look. The sharp rocks are festooned with the splintered skeletons of ships that have run aground, or were dashed against the shore in a storm. You stare in fascination at the shattered hulls, imagining the terrifying scenes of their destruction. Then, suddenly, high above the pinnacles of stone hovers a black shadow, like a small rain cloud. It seems to be moving towards you. Suddenly you realise what the <quote>cloud</quote> really is. It is a swarm of large Zlanbeast and possibly some Kraan. The alarm is shouted along the deck: <quote>Prepare for battle!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to stay on deck, ready your weapon and <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you wish to return to your cabin, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seventy Durenese warships left Port Bax, but only fifty now enter the Holmgulf. The battle has claimed many brave men including Admiral Calfen, who died aboard the flagship Durenor, the first ship to be sunk. But despite the heavy loss, a great victory has been won, a victory which inspires the Durenese soldiers with new strength so that the past ordeal of both the voyage and the battle are now forgotten. As their optimism and determination return, all are eager to reach Holmgard and raise the siege.</p>
- <p>It is dusk on the thirty-seventh day of your quest when you sight the spires of Holmgard on the horizon. The city still stands defiantly against the army of Darklords, although constantly under siege. Flickering in the darkness you can see the small fires which burn throughout the capital. A confident Lord Axim joins you at the prow.</p>
- <p><quote>The moonless sky will aid us this night. We shall enter the harbour unseen. Come the dawn, my men will scatter the wretched foe like dead leaves upon the wind of a storm.</quote></p>
- <p>As you enter Holmgard harbour at the head of the Durenese fleet, you unsheathe the Sommerswerd and prepare to fulfil your destiny.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper speaks with the gruff tone of a native Ragadornian. You discover from him that this seaport is ruled by Lachlan, son of Killean the Overlord who died three years ago of the dreadful Red Death plague. The innkeeper does not speak highly of Lachlan, whom he calls the <quote>Prince of Thieves</quote>.</p>
- <p><quote>He and his mercenaries bleed the people dry with heavy taxes, and if y<ch.apos/>complain, you end up in the harbour with a dagger in your back.</quote> The big man shakes his head and pours another round of ale for the drunken sailors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to buy a room for the night pay the innkeeper 2 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to try your luck at winning some Gold Crowns at arm-wrestling, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Marching along the centre of the street are four heavily armed city guards. Rather than risk being arrested, you quickly dodge into an alley on your left. The guards suddenly halt opposite the entrance. If one of them should turn his head, you will be spotted for sure. Behind you is a small window that leads into a crowded tavern. Without hesitation, you climb in as quickly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4"><link-text>Turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect228-1-foot" idref="sect228-1">
- <p>It is not made clear that the left path leads to the east and the right path to the west, even though it does so in parallel sections. (cf. <a idref="sect171">Section 171</a>)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>They are Larnuma trees and their fruit is very nutritious as well as being sweet and juicy. After your Meal you feel much stronger. You pick enough fruit for 2 Meals and store it in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Looking behind the trees, you see a wide coast road that stretches into the <!--ERRTAG-RE-250221-->distance to the left<!--/ERRTAG-RE-250221--> and right.<footref id="sect228-1" idref="sect228-1-foot"/> There are no signposts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to go left, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to go right <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sense warns you that the wagon contains an evil presence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you wish to enter the wagon, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you want to dash past the wagon and run for safety, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you want to return to the junction and take the right hand tunnel, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the street until it turns abruptly eastwards into Beggar Lane. You can see how this street got its name, for there are scores of ragged men, women and children huddled in doorways, all holding out their begging bowls.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small23.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small23.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you walk towards the junction at the end of the street, you are assailed from all sides with pleas for gold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you wish to give any of your gold to these beggars, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to push them aside and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The back door opens <!--ERRTAG-RE-252737-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-252737--> a small square, in the centre of which is a large tomb. The fishermen have disappeared into the gloomy streets; all that is except one who has slipped on the wet cobblestones and knocked himself out. He is lying in the gutter with his face submerged in a puddle.</p>
- <p>You roll him over with your foot and search him. You discover 5 Gold Crowns, a Dagger, and to your great relief the Seal of Hammerdal on his finger. Mark on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those items you take with you and continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to return to the tavern, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to study the tomb, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to head west along Tomb Street, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to head east along Watchtower Street, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than twenty yards from the tower when the guard steps forward and demands to know your business. You notice that the soldier is wearing the red coat of a Durenese man-at-arms, and realize that you have reached the border of Durenor. You need to find some way of getting past him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you decide to say you are a merchant on your way to Port Bax, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you decide to offer him a bribe, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you want to show him the Seal of Hammerdal (if you still have it), <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>re bound for Ragadorn<ch.emdash/>due there by noon today,</quote> he says, his face almost completely hidden by the wide brim of his hat. <quote>A seat below will cost you 3 Crowns, but you can ride on the roof for only one.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to ride inside the coach, pay the driver 3 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you would prefer to stay on the roof, pay him one Gold Crown and <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you cannot pay the fare, you must leave the coach and walk. <link-text>Turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can defend yourself, the Helghast has smashed into you and you both fall <!--ERRTAG-RE-255863-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255863--> the highway below.</p>
- <p>It may be some comfort to learn that your death was swift and painless. Your neck was instantly broken and you were spared the agony of the Helghast<ch.apos/>s black fingers tearing and burning their way through your throat. The Seal of Hammerdal is now on its way to Holmgard, which will now fall to the Darklords.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the landing of the next floor, you hear the door crash open and the angry mob pour through. At the top of the stairs, a Short Sword hangs on a hook by the fireplace. You may take this weapon if you wish. Looking around you, you see that there is only one way to escape from this room and that is to jump through the window to the street below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to jump through the window, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to stand and fight the mob as they run up the stairs, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly panic strikes. The ship is thrown into a frenzy of activity as sailors grab buckets and blankets with which to fight the fire. Flames are roaring through the hatch cover, and it takes over an hour to contain the blaze. The damage to the ship is great. The entire store of food and fresh water has been destroyed and the mid-section of the ship badly weakened.</p>
- <p>The captain appears from out of the smoking hold and approaches you, his face black with soot. He is carrying something in a bundle under his arm.</p>
- <p><quote>We must talk in private my lord,</quote> he says quietly.</p>
- <p>Without replying, you turn and follow him to his cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dead zombies lie around your feet. By now, the soldiers<ch.apos/> fear of the undead has turned to sheer hatred. A chorus of Durenese battle-cries resounds along the deck. You lead the charge along a boarding plank and <!--ERRTAG-RE-258314-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258314--> the deck of the death-hulk, cleaving the zombie crew aside like a scythe through wheat. Then suddenly a black-cloaked figure blocks your path, a twisted sword held in its shrunken black hand. It is a Helghast, and you must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>It is an undead creature, so remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that it loses as a result of your possessing the Sommerswerd. It is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect238-1-foot" idref="sect238-1">
- <p>You only receive the free silver token once, regardless of how many times you enter the gaming-house. The restriction on Weapons inside the gaming-house is merely flavourful text and has no effect on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect238-2-foot" idref="sect238-2">
- <p>In the game of <quote>Cartwheel</quote>, the number 0 is adjacent to the number 9. For example, if you bet on 9, and the silver ball falls on 0, you win 5 Gold Crowns for every 1 that you staked.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Opposite the coach station is a narrow street leading to a gaming-house with a sign outside.</p>
- <signpost>No Weapons Allowed Inside</signpost>
- <p>You are excited by the chance of being able to win some gold and you quickly enter. Any Weapons you may have must be left with a guard at the door. You can recover your Weapons when you decide to leave. You are given a silver token worth 1 Gold Crown, that can only be used in this gaming-house.<footref id="sect238-1" idref="sect238-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>The entrance hall opens out into a huge room where many gambling games are in progress. One that catches your eye is called <quote>Cartwheel</quote>. At one end of a long table, an attractive young woman spins a black dish divided into ten sections marked 0<ch.endash/>9. As the dish spins, she drops a small silver ball into it which eventually comes to rest in one of the numbered sections. Several merchants are seated around the table and they are betting heavily on the fall of the silver ball.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>An attractive young woman spins a black dish</line>
- <line>divided into ten sections marked 0<ch.endash/>9</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <p>To play <quote>Cartwheel</quote>, you must first decide the number you would like to bet on and just how many Gold Crowns you would like to stake. Make a note of these numbers and then pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick exactly the same number, you win 8 Gold Crowns for every 1 Gold Crown that you gamble. If the number you pick is immediately before or after the correct choice,<footref id="sect238-2" idref="sect238-2-foot"/> you win 5 Gold Crowns for every 1 Gold Crown that you stake. There is a limit to how much you can win on this table: 40 Gold Crowns.</p>
- <p>You may play as many rounds of <quote>Cartwheel</quote> as you wish until either you lose all your Gold Crowns or you decide to pick up your winnings (maximum of 40 Gold Crowns).</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you have lost all your Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you have winnings to collect, or if you wish to withdraw with what money you have left, leave the building and <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to apply your hands to the injured man<ch.apos/>s chest, but the Szalls are pulling at your cloak and trying to drag you away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you do not possess this skill, you must attack the Szalls in order to save the man<ch.apos/>s life. <link-text>Turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After three uneventful days at sea, you find shipboard life rather dreary. If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you may have lost on your adventure so far are restored. This will bring your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score back to your original one. If you do not possess the skill, restore half of any points you have lost in combat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small24.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small24.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>On the afternoon of the fourth day, you are talking with an injured sailor up on deck when you smell smoke seeping from the hold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to enter the hold, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you wish to shout <quote>Fire!</quote> <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to warn the captain, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hush descends on the tavern as the man you have accused turns to face you.</p>
- <p><quote>You<ch.apos/>ve got a careless tongue, stranger,</quote> he says menacingly. <quote>It should be cut out before it does any more harm.</quote> He draws a curved dagger and attacks you. The crowd form a circle around you both, preventing either of you from escaping. You must fight this man to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Trickster</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect242-1-foot" idref="sect242-1">
- <p>The Sommerswerd is a weapon-like Special Item. The +10 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus referred to for Weaponskill is a combination of the +8 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> that the Sommerswerd grants naturally and +2 for Weaponskill with Short Sword, Sword, or Broadsword (as each of them grant proficiency with the Sommerswerd). It is not an additional bonus. When used in combat, treat it like a one-handed sword, regardless of Weaponskill bonus. The text or footnotes will always remind you to double your enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss if it is undead.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Much of your time at Hammerdal is taken up by training with the Sommerswerd. Day by day your skill with the wondrous blade improves, and as you progress, so you learn more of its marvellous properties.</p>
- <p>When you use the sword in combat it will add 8 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total (10 points if you possess the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill with any sword). It has the ability to absorb any magic used against you and doubles the total of all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by undead enemies (e.g. Helghast) during combat.<footref id="sect242-1" idref="sect242-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>You also come to realise that it is the only weapon in all of Magnamund that can kill a Darklord, and for this reason above all others they are determined to destroy you before you reach Durenor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152"><link-text>Turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seeing their master slain, the Giaks falter and retreat towards the stern. Captain Kelman rallies his crew and attacks, leading his men against the snarling creatures and driving them back until they leap into the sea to avoid the rain of swords. Knowing the battle to be lost, the Kraan leave the masts and fly back to the distant coastline.</p>
- <p><quote>Our thanks, Kai Lord,</quote> the captain says and shakes your hand. <quote>We are proud and thankful to have you with us.</quote></p>
- <p>A cheer resounds along the deck as the crew voice their praise.</p>
- <p>You help tend the wounded whilst repairs are carried out on the damaged masts. Within two hours they are complete, the wind fills the sails and you continue your voyage to Durenor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push on through the dense forest for nearly three hours before you discover a track heading north, running parallel to the Rymerift, whose rushing waters are over one mile deep. In the distance, you spot a bridge that spans the dark water at a narrow point. A small hut with a flat roof has been erected in the centre, on top of which stand two soldiers. A sign points across the bridge.</p>
- <signpost>PORT BAX</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to cross the bridge, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to avoid the bridge and continue along the path, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn east into Oxyoke Way and notice a sign above the door of a small shop to your left.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="300" height="137" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="300" height="137" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Meki Majenor<ch.emdash/>Armourer and Weaponsmith</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to investigate the weaponsmithy, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to continue walking east, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the guards steps forward and demands to see your pass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have a white pass, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you have a red pass, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not have a pass, you will be refused entry to the harbour. <link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are mesmerized by the falling mast and feel totally powerless to escape. As you are crushed beneath the enormous weight of splintering timber, the last thing that you remember are the horrified faces of Captain Kelman and his crew staring down at you.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you lay the golden sword upon the deck, the zombie captain dives at you and pins you down. His strength is unnatural. As he sinks a dagger into your throat, the last thing you hear is a hideous laugh of victory.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During the course of the afternoon<ch.apos/>s journey, you chat with your fellow travellers and learn about their backgrounds.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>You chat with your fellow travellers</line>
- <line>and learn about their backgrounds</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Sitting opposite are two brothers named Ganon and Dorier. They are knights in the Order of the White Mountain, warrior lords of Durenor who have pledged allegiance to protect the country from raids by the bandits of the Wildlands. They own a castle and land near Port Bax. Next to them sits Halvorc the merchant. His nose is swollen and his face is badly bruised thanks to Lachlan, the Overlord of Ragadorn. A little misunderstanding about port taxes lost him his cargo and most of his gold. Seated by the far door is a priest called Parsion. Like you, he is a Sommlending who has journeyed across the Wildlands by coach on his way to Port Bax. Beside you sits a young woman called Viveka. She is a mercenary adventuress who earns her gold by fighting for it, and sells her services to the highest bidder. She is returning to Port Bax having collected payment for a successful adventure in Ragadorn.</p>
- <p>Not wishing to reveal your true identity, you have pretended to be a simple peasant. The travellers seem unaware of the war that now rages in Sommerlund.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldier looks at you with a disbelieving stare.</p>
- <p><quote>Where are your goods? Where is your horse or wagon? Merchants never travel to Port Bax on foot. You are no merchant<ch.emdash/>a bandit more like, desperate to put distance between yourself and some foul deed best left untold. Go back to where you have come from, scum. We have no need of the sort of goods you sell.</quote></p>
- <p>If you are to get past this border guard alive, you will have to come up with an alternative plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to walk away, make a wide detour and enter the forest further south, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you want to try and bribe the guard, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you choose to reveal the Seal of Hammerdal (if you still possess it), <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is nearly dark when the small fishing boat passes through the harbour entrance of Ragadorn. You have still seen no sign of survivors from the storm and you fear the worst.</p>
- <p>You notice that three of the fishermen are acting very suspiciously. They whisper to each other and their eyes often glance at your money pouch. As the boat sails into the estuary of the River Dorn, they surround you and demand that you hand over all your gold. You are about to fight them when an unexpected blow from behind knocks you to the deck. You see one of the fishermen raise his foot. As it strikes your head, suddenly everything fades into darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194"><link-text>Turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to remember some of the stories told to you by an old Kai master called Wise Hawk. He was envoy to Port Bax for many years, and he knew and loved this city as well as any native Durenese. You recall him saying that the consulate overlooked Alin Square in the naval quadrant of the city. There is a sign to your left pointing along the avenue.</p>
- <signpost>Naval Quadrant<ch.emdash/>1/2 Mile</signpost>
- <p>Certain this is the right direction, you walk confidently along the tree-lined avenue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This street follows the harbour wall towards the River Dorn where it then turns south into Booty Walk. As you pass the warehouses lining the waterfront, you recognize the stone signpost in the centre of the square ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to continue south, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to walk along Barnacle Street and return to the tavern, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days and nights you have followed the highway to the capital as it runs parallel to the River Durenon. The river valley is a wide belt of rich, cultivated land that climbs towards the Hammerdal Mountains, one of the highest ranges in all of Magnamund.</p>
- <p>It is on the morning of the fourteenth day of your quest, when six cloaked men appear at the edge of your camp. Lord-lieutenant Rhygar is the first to draw his sword. With a voice of authority he demands an explanation for their intrusion. In reply, they unsheathe black swords. Rhygar shouts to his men to prepare for combat as the cloaked strangers advance towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to draw your weapon and prepare to fight, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you do not want to fight, you can evade by running into the woods before combat begins by <link-text>turning to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking hold of your weapon, you demonstrate the Kai skills of balance and speed, as taught to you by your Kai masters. With breathtaking speed, as you spin and twist the weapon around your head and body, the movement of your hands becomes a dazzling blur. To finish your display of Weaponskill, you strike the edge of a pewter plate and send it spinning across the room so fast that it embeds itself in the cellar door.</p>
- <p>The sailor watches in amazement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass the stone steps and continue along the highway. You have just passed under the platform when you hear a noise above you. You stop and stare upwards but you can see nothing in the gloom of the tunnel ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This rubbish-strewn cobbled street runs between rows of ramshackle, rot-infested houses and shops. The few inhabitants of Ragadorn that you see appear a cheerless lot, their faces haggard and drawn. They shuffle through the gloom, hunched against the pouring rain, their eyes fixed on the cobblestones at their feet. Then you reach a junction where Axe Lane bends towards the north and another street heads off towards the east.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small25.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small25.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to continue north and enter Black Knight Street, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to head east, enter Sage Street by <link-text>turning to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stench of the ship is making you choke. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You must get out of this vile hold or you will suffocate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you wish to climb through the shattered deck, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to leave the hold through a door in the far wall, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the pouring rain, you can make out the dark shape of a city patrol marching towards you. Rather than risk being stopped and possibly arrested, you dash into a nearby shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain orders the ship to go alongside and pick up the three men. They are fishermen from the Sommerlund port of Tyso. Their boat was attacked last night by pirates, and they are the only survivors.</p>
- <p>You give them food and warm clothing and they can barely hold back their tears of gratitude. As you prepare to continue your journey to Durenor, one of the men offers you a fine Sword as a token of his thanks. If you wish to accept this gift, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The road follows a course along a high, grassy ridge for many miles before turning northwards to the coast. You pass a village where the houses curve in a circle around a large pond of stagnant water. As you ride through, a gaggle of Szall children come running towards you, shouting and throwing stones.</p>
- <p>You descend into the deep valley beyond and gradually the moor gives way to richer land that has been cleared and ploughed. The hillside opposite is heavily wooded. You are not far from the coast and you can see the tall cliffs with their multicoloured bands of rock jutting out into the ocean.</p>
- <p>Then just as you are passing through a small copse, you hear desperate cries for help off to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to aid the <!--ERRTAG-RE-281741-->people<!--/ERRTAG-RE-281741--> in trouble, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to ignore their desperate pleas, continue riding along the road by <link-text>turning to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect262-1-foot" idref="sect262-1">
- <p>The Potion of Orange Liquid is probably Alether, but the text does not give you the ability to recognize it. Therefore, you should not use it as such.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect262-2-foot" idref="sect262-2">
- <p>You have lost your Backpack and therefore cannot carry the Meal or the Orange Potion<ch.emdash/>further adding to its uselessness.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard roughly pushes you aside and runs out of the watchtower towards Tomb Square. There is a small room off the staircase and you decide to enter and search it before he returns. In it you discover:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Enough Food for 1 Meal</li>
- <li>6 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Potion of Orange Liquid<footref id="sect262-1" idref="sect262-1-foot"/></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to take any of these items,<footref id="sect262-2" idref="sect262-2-foot"/> mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>As you are leaving, you collide with another guard and you both tumble down the stairs, but before he can gather his senses, you have sprinted off into the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65"><link-text>Turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man stares at the Seal with a look of shocked dismay. Without saying a word, he gets up from his chair and beckons you to follow him up a flight of spiral stairs that lead to a domed chamber. Here you meet the captain of the port watch. He listens intently as you tell of the war in Sommerlund and of your urgent mission.</p>
- <p><quote>Issue a red pass immediately,</quote> he orders. <quote>Top priority.</quote></p>
- <p>You collect your pass, leave the port watchtower and hurry along the street towards the harbour guards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Focusing your powers of concentration on the snake<ch.apos/>s head, you will it to slither away in search of food. Slowly but surely your psychic suggestion works, and the snake eventually uncoils itself and vanishes into the long grass. Breathing a sigh of relief, you decide it would be safer to climb the tree and spend the rest of the night above the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At dusk on the tenth day of your quest, you experience your first sight of the magnificent city of Port Bax. Like a diamond set in the green velvet shore, the towers of the city glimmer in the pale light of a waxing moon. To the north is the harbour and the formidable war fleet of the Durenese navy. To the east, beyond the moss-covered city wall, stretches the forest of Durenor. And there, on the crest of a hill, stands a castle tall and proud, the crowning glory of this beautiful port.</p>
- <p>You enter Port Bax through an unguarded gate in the green city wall, and make your way through the darkening streets towards the harbour.</p>
- <p>As you turn into a tree-lined avenue, you notice the wide stone steps of a domed building to your right. You stop to read the brass plaque.</p>
- <signpost>CITY HALL</signpost>
- <p>Despite the late hour, the main doors are open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to enter the city hall, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to continue on your way towards the harbour, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you enter, a bell rings and a small man in a padded leather jerkin bids you welcome. He is busy polishing a rusty suit of armour with a wire brush. The price of his weapons are displayed on a wooden board above the counter:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Swords 4 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Daggers 2 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Broadswords 7 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Short Swords 3 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Warhammers 6 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Spears 5 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Maces 4 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Axes 3 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Quarterstaffs 3 Gold Crowns each</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above weapons if you have enough money to do so. The weaponsmith will also buy any Weapons that you may already have for 1 Gold Crown less than the price shown on his wooden board. Mark any necessary changes on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before bidding him goodnight and returning to the street.</p>
- <p>At the end of Oxyoke Way, on your right you find a large stable and coach station. It is now very dark and you must find somewhere to spend the night. Climbing a ladder at the side of the building, you spend a comfortable night hidden in the hay-loft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you surface, you see that battle now rages all around you and the sea is choked with the bodies of the dead and drowning. You manage to swim thirty yards and scramble over the rail of a Durenese warship. Here, a bitter struggle is being waged against a long death-hulk that has grappled alongside. The zombies have clambered aboard and are slaughtering the terror-struck Durenese soldiers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to draw the Sommerswerd and charge into battle, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to jump <!--ERRTAG-RE-288964-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-288964--> the long death-hulk, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You are indeed a Kai Lord,</quote> says the sailor, but the astonishment on his face quickly changes to an unpleasant sneer.</p>
- <p><quote>Or should I say you were!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>You turn to see three harbour thugs</line>
- <line>advancing towards you</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As he speaks, a door crashes open behind you and you turn to see three harbour thugs advancing towards you. Each is armed with a scimitar and you have no choice but to fight all three as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Harbour Thugs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect125">You may evade after two rounds of combat by running through a side door. <link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horrific sight of the writhing creature fills you with loathing for the Darklords and their evil minions.</p>
- <p>When the Helghast has finally crumbled to nothing and you are quite sure that it has been destroyed, you remove the Magic Spear and wipe the tip on its smouldering robe.</p>
- <p>Anxious to leave this place, you run down the tunnel as fast as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ganon rolls away from his chair and draws his sword. An instant later his brother Dorier is by his side. You must fight them both as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ganon + Dorier</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the surprise of your attack, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of combat only. Because of their exceptional strength of will, they are immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the tower archway and climb a stone stair where you are suddenly confronted by an armoured warrior. His head is encased in a steel helm and he wears the emblem of a black ship on a red crest. He steps forward and draws his sword saying, <quote>Halt and give the password!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to attack him, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to evade him by running from the tower, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Someone or something is approaching the door of the hold from the other side. If you climb out through the shattered deck, you will leave your legs vulnerable to attack from below and there is no other way out. You sense that it is an evil creature of some considerable power. Raise the Sommerswerd and prepare for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to strike when your assailant shouts, <quote>I am Ronan, my lord. I mean you no harm.</quote></p>
- <p>You manage to divert your blow at the last moment and your weapon smashes the back of a wooden chair. The beads of sweat that have broken out on the sailor<ch.apos/>s face appear to confirm that he speaks the truth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">Lower your weapon and <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A quick search of the bodies reveals a Sword, 6 Gold Crowns and a Mace. Take what you wish and mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Before you can leave by the front door, more angry villagers have forced their way into the shop. You can only leave now by the first-floor window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132"><link-text>Turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You become weaker and weaker until your body finally surrenders to the welcoming arms of death. Your assassin has successfully completed his mission.</p>
- <p>Your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A grim-looking sailor is challenging all-comers to an arm-wrestling contest. He is so confident of winning that he will pay 5 Gold Crowns to anyone who beats him. As you approach his table, a serving girl whispers in your ear, <quote>Be careful stranger, he is an evil man. He breaks the arms of those who lose, and murders any who beat him.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small26.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small26.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you face the sailor across the table, bets are made throughout the tavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have this skill, conduct the wrestling contest as if you were in combat. The first one to reach 0 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, loses the match.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Sailor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>When the contest is over, restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the same total that you had before the contest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you lose, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you win the contest, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As Rhygar and his men gallop nearer to the riders, one of the cloaked horsemen draws a black staff from beneath his robes. A fierce blue flame shoots from its tip and explodes beneath Rhygar<ch.apos/>s horse, sending him head over heels into the dense undergrowth. Rhygar<ch.apos/>s men furiously attack with their swords. Their sharp blades slice clean through their enemies<ch.apos/> cloaks and bodies, and then you realize that they are having no effect. For these are Helghast, fell captains of the Darklords. They have the ability to adopt human form but they are invulnerable to normal weapons. The cloaked staff-bearer gives a hideous laugh that tears at your mind. He is using a very powerful Mindblast against you. You know you are outnumbered by a superior enemy and you must act quickly if you are to survive this ambush at all.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to abandon your horse and dive for cover in the thick undergrowth, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to aid Rhygar<ch.apos/>s men, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You desperately wave your Kai cloak above your head until you are near to exhaustion.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to see if your effort has been rewarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the creature to be a Noodnic, an intelligent but mischievous mountain-dwelling native of Durenor. The Noodnics inhabit a maze of smaller shafts and fissures that honeycomb the Hammerdal Mountains, and live off whatever they can steal from the merchant caravans that travel the Tarnalin. It occurs to you that if you can catch the Noodnic, you may be able to learn if the Helghast are hiding within the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to follow the Noodnic, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you would rather let it go and continue on your journey, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sleep deeply without being disturbed before rising at dawn, gathering your equipment and joining the others as they board the coach.</p>
- <p>For two days and nights, the coach follows the trade route across the flat, treeless Wildlands. It stops only to allow the driver to sleep. But on the morning of the ninth day of your quest, there is an unfortunate accident.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You beg the captain to pick up the unfortunate castaways but he ignores your pleas and orders the crew to continue with their duties. As the longboat disappears from view, you have a premonition that a similar fate awaits you. Shaken by the thought, you descend below decks and retire to your cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both soldiers stab at you with their spears and try to force you off the bridge. As you lash out at one, the other dodges past you and attacks you from behind.</p>
- <p>You cannot evade and you must fight them both to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bridge Guard 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Bridge Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare in awe at the variety of merchandise. Silk and spices from the opulent bazaars of Vassagonia; jewels from the mines of Bor; the finest weapons and armour from the smithies of Durenor; furs from the Brumalmarc of Kalte; cloth from Cloeasia; and all kinds of food and drink cover the tables.</p>
- <p>Near the centre of the trading post you notice that the prices are displayed on large pieces of stretched vellum. One of the signs in particular catches your eye:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Swords 4 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Daggers 2 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Broadswords 6 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Spears 5 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Fine Foods 2 Gold Crowns per Meal</li>
- <li>Gold Rings 8 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Fur Blankets 3 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Backpacks 1 Gold Crown each</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you have enough money, you may purchase any of the above Items. When you have concluded your purchases, you may leave the trading post by a side exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect284-1-foot" idref="sect284-1">
- <p>You need not adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in regards to your Weapons or Backpack.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, the soldiers surround you and take your Weapons and Backpack.<footref id="sect284-1" idref="sect284-1-foot"/> The knight steps forward and raises the visor of his helm.</p>
- <p><quote>Who are you? What is your purpose in Tarnalin?</quote> he demands in a gruff voice.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The knight is Lord Axim of Ryme, commander</line>
- <line>of King Alin<ch.apos/>s personal bodyguard</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="653" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="653" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You tell him that you are a Kai Lord from Sommerlund on an urgent mission to King Alin. He seems unconvinced by your words until you show him the Seal of Hammerdal. Then, without hesitation, he orders his men to return your belongings and ushers you through the wall of wagons. Beyond, you can see a horse-drawn carriage waiting in the centre of the crowded tunnel.</p>
- <p><quote>Back to Hammerdal without delay,</quote> he orders the driver, and you are thrown back in your seat as the coach moves off at breakneck speed.</p>
- <p>You soon learn that the knight is Lord Axim of Ryme, commander of King Alin<ch.apos/>s personal bodyguard. He was on his way to Port Bax when the Helghast entered Tarnalin. He and ten soldiers were the only ones to survive a deadly encounter with these evil creatures.</p>
- <p>During your ride through the Tarnalin, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The journey to the capital will take five hours and you are advised by Lord Axim to get some rest. As you slowly drift off to sleep, you begin a dream about the Sommerswerd. You picture a triumphant return to Holmgard and the defeat of the Darklord siege. Perhaps it will be a good omen of events to come?</p>
- <choice idref="sect9"><link-text>Turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel the snake<ch.apos/>s fangs catch in the arm of your tunic, but that is all. You are lucky that the only damage done was to your clothing. As the serpent disappears into the long grass, you quickly climb the tree and spend the rest of the night safely above the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the water and swim submerged for over a minute to avoid the falling bodies and burning debris of the battle. When you are finally forced to the surface for air, you catch a glimpse of a sight that raises your hopes of fulfilling your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109"><link-text>Turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your concentration on the small, brass lock. After a few seconds, you hear a faint click that tells you that the inner latch is now unlocked. Inside is a scroll bearing the royal seal of Sommerlund and containing confidential orders about your mission to Durenor. As you put the box back into its hiding place, you notice that a deadly trap had been hidden in the lid. Your Kai Discipline has saved you from the swift death of a poison needle. Closing the drawers, you quickly check that nothing looks as though it has been disturbed before joining the captain on deck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without uttering a word, the knight points to the woods behind you and returns to the watchtower. He disappears inside and bolts the door.</p>
- <p>The forest here is very thick and the undergrowth is a tangle of weeds and briars. It will be impossible to enter the wood on horseback. You realize you will have to abandon your mount and continue on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are welcomed by an old woman dressed from head to toe in white. She smiles and offers you a delicious cup of jala. Your experience of Ragadorn so far makes you suspicious of the dark liquid and you politely refuse her offer. As you push the steaming mug away, she notices the <!--ERRTAG-RE-306625-->Seal<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306625--> on your finger.</p>
- <p><quote>What a magnificent ring! Is it for sale?</quote> she asks, her eyes lighting up with excitement. You tell her firmly that it is not but she will not accept your refusal. She offers you any choice of the hundreds of potions that fill the glass cabinets behind her counter. As you turn to leave, she offers you 40 Gold Crowns.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to accept her offer, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to leave the shop, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The food smells delicious, but you notice that there are two or three drops of clear liquid on the side of the plate and another on the tray. At first you suspect that it is only water, until you touch the fluid and notice that it is sticky. You recognize it as sap from the gnadurn tree, a deadly poison used by assassins because of its lack of flavour or scent. The shock of your discovery soon turns to anger and you race out of the room, intent on discovering the identity of your enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The forest here is extremely dense and the undergrowth is a tangle of bushy weeds. You ride for a mile in either direction and discover no track or path near the watchtower. If you are to reach Port Bax you must dismount and enter the forest on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been walking in the rain for over three hours when you are confronted by seven horsemen. They are mercenaries employed by the Overlord of Ragadorn and they bear his emblem, a black ship on a red crest, upon their shields.</p>
- <p>They demand that you hand over all your gold or they will kill you. When they discover that you have no gold, they chase you and eventually cut you down with their longswords. As you lie dying on the road, the last sight that you remember is the outline of Ragadorn on the distant horizon.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This road eventually ends at a deserted forest cabin. Although it is furnished, a layer of fine dust covers everything inside and indicates that this place has not been used for several months. It is a dead end, and you have wasted precious time. You must return to the fork and take the left path without further delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155"><link-text>Turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you wrap the injured man in a large blanket, he drifts off into a sleep from which he will never awake. Back on deck, the bodies of the dead crew have been laid together.</p>
- <p>Captain Kelman approaches and hands you a vicious-looking blade. <quote>This is no pirate sword, Lone Wolf. This weapon was forged in the furnaces of Helgedad. It is a Darklord blade.</quote></p>
- <p>You cast the evil sword into the sea where it quickly sinks beneath the waves, and return to the Green Sceptre. As the crew make ready to set sail for the east, you watch with sorrow as the Durenese trader sinks beneath the waves.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A creature, much larger than the others and dressed in a magnificent robe of patchwork silk, screams an order in their strange language. All of the furry creatures arm themselves with spears and swords that look as if they have been crafted from broken wagon spokes and broom handles. With a strange battle-cry that sounds like <quote>Gashgiss<ch.emdash/>Nashgiss</quote>, they charge towards you. Your curiosity soon gives way to the realization that you must evade them or be trampled to by the sheer weight of their numbers.</p>
- <p>You turn and sprint along the narrow corridor until their angry cries begin to fade. You reach the entrance to where the passage connects with the main tunnel, and continue your journey from there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The people flee the tavern as the town guard attack. There are six of them and you must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Town Guard Sergeant</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Town Guard Corporal</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Town Guard 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Town Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Town Guard 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Town Guard 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect88">You may evade at any time by running out of the back door, and <link-text>turning to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you kill all of the town guard in combat, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Halfway along this street on the left-hand side is a large stable and coach station. As it is now completely dark, you decide to enter. You spend the night safely hidden in the hay-loft of the stables.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the footsteps behind you quicken, and you spin round just in time to see them draw their daggers to attack you. You must deduct 4 points from Your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight them open-handed. They attack you one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Street Thief Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Street Thief 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Street Thief 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">You may evade the combat at any time by <link-text>turning to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you win the combat and kill all three street thieves, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect299-1-foot" idref="sect299-1">
- <p>See the <a idref="errata">erratum</a> for this section for details of the gameplay changes made to this section. Note: the results of the choices presented here are discussed.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>For six hours you run without rest. The Helghast are on the highway and you are forced to make your way through the steep and wooded foothills to avoid the risk of capture. Many times you feel that you just cannot go on, that the pain and the fatigue are too much to bear. But each time you falter, you are spurred on by Rhygar. You marvel at his endurance, for he is not a young man and he is clothed in the heavy armour of a Sommlending knight.</p>
- <p>By nightfall, you have reached the entrance to Tarnalin, the western tunnel through the Hammerdal Mountains. The three tunnels of Durenor were excavated during the age of the Black Moon, and each tunnel is over forty miles long and passes through the huge circle of the Hammerdal range to the capital. The tunnels provide the only access to the city.</p>
- <p>Rhygar sits beside you and takes some bread and meat from his pack. <quote>Eat this, Lone Wolf. You must sustain your strength for the journey to Hammerdal, for from here you must venture alone through the Tarnalin. I shall remain here and hold the enemy back for as long as I have the strength to fight. Do not argue<ch.emdash/>that your mission should succeed is the only thing that matters.</quote></p>
- <p>If Rhygar is to hold off the Helghast, he will need a magic weapon as his own sword is of no use against the creatures.<footref id="sect299-1" idref="sect299-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to give him your Magic Spear, so that he can defend the tunnel entrance, or if you do not possess a Magic Spear, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess a Magic Spear but do not wish to give it to Rhygar, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you paddle towards the sleek trade caravel, you notice to your surprise that the boarding ladder is being pulled up. A mean-looking sailor leans over the gunwale and curses at you. He seems to think that you are a refugee trying to stowaway on board. But when you shout that you are Lone Wolf and you were ambushed by an impostor at the tavern, the ladder is soon lowered again. As you climb over the side of the ship, you are met by a tall man in a gold-braided uniform. His face is almost totally covered by a shock of bright red hair and a bright red beard.</p>
- <p><quote>Haul anchor!</quote> he booms. The crew spring into action as if their very lives depended on it.</p>
- <p>The captain ushers you below to his cabin where he pours two glasses of wanlo, a strong spirit. His face shows concern as you tell him what has happened.</p>
- <p><quote>There is evil treachery at work and the enemy already has plans afoot to thwart your quest,</quote> he begins when you<ch.apos/>ve told your tale. <quote>It seems that you have lost the element of surprise<ch.emdash/>and I have lost a courageous first mate. Let us only hope that the voyage to Durenor be swift and safe.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small27.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small27.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You leave him to go up on deck just in time to see the outline of Holmgard on the horizon. With mixed feelings of pride and apprehension, you descend the stairway to your cabin as the last spire of the capital disappears from view.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">If the number that you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>1, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If the number is 2<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If the number is 4<ch.endash/>5, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If the number is 6<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If the number is 8<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the bodies and discover 3 Gold Crowns, 3 Daggers and a Short Sword. If you wish to take any of these, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect302-1-foot" idref="sect302-1">
- <p>If you have stated your mission to the Knight (i.e. you have read <a idref="sect80">Section 80</a>), then you should ignore the words <quote>climb the watchtower stairs and</quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stepping over the body, you climb the watchtower stairs and<footref idref="sect302-1-foot" id="sect302-1"/> quickly search the living quarters. You find:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Healing Potion (restores 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>Enough Food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Backpack</li>
- <li>12 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Take whatever Items you wish and quickly leave the watchtower in case someone discovers you.</p>
- <p>You realize that the forest is very thick in this area and you will have to abandon your horse and continue on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Piles of rotting garbage litter this stretch of the waterfront, giving off such an evil smell that you are forced to cover your mouth and nose with your cloak. Ahead to your left, you notice the glow of torchlight streaming from an open door. Above the door is a sign.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Ragadorn Trading Post<ch.emdash/>Merchandise Bought and Sold</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to enter the trading post, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to continue on your way south, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It may be of some consolation to learn that your death was mercifully swift. The Helghast<ch.apos/>s fingers tore and burnt their way through your throat within a few seconds. But now the Seal of Hammerdal is on its way to the Darklords<ch.apos/> city of Helgedad.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a shocked silence as you scoop up the 5 Gold Crowns from the table and turn to leave, but as you reach the tavern door, an ugly thug draws his sword and blocks your exit. Just as you are wondering what to do, there is a loud thud, and the man keels over <!--ERRTAG-RE-323352-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-323352--> the floor. Behind him, to your surprise stands the serving girl with a large wooden club in her hand. You thank her politely and race out of the door into the darkened street beyond.</p>
- <p>After running for ten minutes in the dark, you spot a large stable and coach station through the gloom ahead. With the shouts of angry sailors still ringing in your ears, you quickly enter the building and spend the night safely hidden in the hay-loft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldier stabs at your chest with his spear, but you quickly sidestep and it merely grazes your arm. The guard is determined to fight but you do not want to have to kill him in combat, so you decide to try and knock him unconscious.</p>
- <p>Fight the following combat as normal, but double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy. When his <!--ERRTAG-RE-325953-->score reaches zero or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-325953-->, you will have succeeded in knocking him out. All <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose still count as wounds and are deducted from your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Border Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you successfully reduce his <!--ERRTAG-RE-326475-->points to zero or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326475-->, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards look angry and ready to attack. You will have to think of something quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you decide to offer them a bribe, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you decide to show them the Seal of Hammerdal (if you still have it), <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you think it is safer to draw your weapon and attack, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sailor called Sprogg sits beside you and explains the rules of the game <quote>Portholes</quote>. First he shows you two diamond-shaped dice made of red glass. <!--ERRTAG-RE-325241-->Each die<!--/ERRTAG-RE-325241--> has ten sides and they are numbered 0<ch.endash/>9. Each player rolls both dice and adds the numbers together (0 = zero). If anyone throws two 0<ch.apos/>s, they shout <quote>portholes</quote> and automatically win.</p>
- <p>Each player stakes 3 Gold Crowns per throw. There are two other players in the game and they all place their stake money into a hat before the dice are rolled.</p>
- <p>Pick two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> for each of the other two players, and note these scores down. Now pick two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> for yourself. If your total is higher than the other players, you win 6 Gold Crowns. If either of the other players beat your score, you lose 3 Gold Crowns. You may leave the game at any time, but you must stop playing if you lose all your Crowns (bad luck!).</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">When you finally decide to leave, you may return to your cabin by <link-text>turning to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you advance along the deck, the hideous creatures turn and flee from the golden light of your sword. You notice something strange about this death-hulk, something familiar, but you are not quite sure what it is. Suddenly, a ghastly voice behind you cries out your name.</p>
- <p>You raise the Sommerswerd and spin around to face the voice. The sight that confronts you fills your senses with a mortal terror.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach the end of Oxyoke Way where it is crossed by another street running north to south. It is now so dark that you are unable to read the street signs. You must find shelter for the night. To your right you see a light above a sign.</p>
- <signpost>Ragadorn Stables and Coach Station</signpost>
- <p>Under cover of the dark, you enter by a side entrance and spend the night safely hidden in the hay-loft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect311-1-foot" idref="sect311-1">
- <p>If you have not already been told, the Helghast are the riders who attacked your party. Helghast are <quote>fell captains of the Darklords. They have the ability to adopt human form but are invulnerable to normal weapons.</quote></p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to rest face downwards in a tangle of thick bracken. The ringing of steel and the horrible cries of the Helghast echo through the trees around you. You are stunned and cannot move until a hand grabs your arm and pulls you upright. It is Rhygar. His face is bloodied and his armour is battered and charred.</p>
- <p><quote>We must flee these demons, Lone Wolf.<footref id="sect311-1" idref="sect311-1-foot"/> Strength and steel will not avail us here.</quote></p>
- <p>You glimpse the silhouette of six Helghast on the forest road above. Their minds bent on the slaughter of Rhygar<ch.apos/>s men, they fail to see you both slip away under cover of the wooded hillside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299"><link-text>Turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you awake to a cold and rain-swept dawn, the branches of the tree and your Kai cloak have kept you warm and dry during the night. Looking along the coast road, in the distance you can see a wagon heading towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to get down from the tree and flag it down, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to try to jump <!--ERRTAG-RE-330010-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330010--> it as it passes beneath your branch, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect313-1-foot" idref="sect313-1">
- <p>Erase the Magic Spear from your Action Chart.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gruesome death-cries of the Helghast finally fade and you risk stopping for a few seconds to catch your breath. You wince as you discover that the creature<ch.apos/>s fingers have burnt into your neck. The wounds are very sore and painful and you must lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Tearing the edge of your tunic, you make a bandage before continuing on your journey through the Tarnalin tunnel.<footref id="sect313-1" idref="sect313-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect314-1-foot" idref="sect314-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if you turn to <a idref="sect178">Section 178</a>. Depending on how strictly you interpret the text, you may also need to deduct 3 points if you turn to <a idref="sect290">Section 290</a> (remember that Hunting cannot be used to fulfil the Meal requirement in the Wildlands).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper is a thin old man with only one eye. He hands you a key and points to a balcony opposite. <quote>Number two, the red door,</quote> he says.</p>
- <p>The other travellers each pay their one Crown, collect a key and make their way across the crowded tavern floor towards the stairs.</p>
- <p><quote>We must make plans for tomorrow.</quote> says Dorier. The others all nod in agreement. <quote>I suggest we meet here in the bar in one hour to decide what to do.</quote></p>
- <p>As you close the red door of your room, for some unknown reason you recall the words of Captain Kelman when you left Holmgard harbour: <quote>There is evil treachery at work when the enemy already has plans afoot to thwart your quest.</quote></p>
- <p>An hour has nearly passed when your thoughts are disturbed by a knock at the door. It is the innkeeper and he is carrying a tray of hot food.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The innkeeper, a thin old man with only</line>
- <line>one eye, is carrying a tray of hot food</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="649" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="649" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>With the compliments of one of your friends,</quote> he says, and leaves before you can ask which one. The food smells most appetizing. You have not eaten today and now you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to eat the hot food put before you, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you do not want to eat this food, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.<footref id="sect314-1" idref="sect314-1-foot"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Keeping one eye on the door, you quickly search the drawers of an ornate chart table. There does not appear to be anything unusual about the contents. You find mainly charts, island maps and navigational instruments. You are about to abandon this fruitless search when you notice a small lever hidden below the tabletop. You push it and a panel flips open to reveal a small wooden box with a brass lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to prise open the lock, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to replace the box and join the captain on deck, before he suspects something is wrong, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following morning you are woken by the cry of the ship<ch.apos/>s lookout high in the crow<ch.apos/>s nest: <quote>Ship ahoy! Ship off the starboard bow!</quote></p>
- <p>You climb up on deck and brace yourself against the fresh sea breeze. On the horizon, you can see the wooded coastline of eastern Sommerlund, but in the middle distance is a merchant ship that looks badly damaged. It is low in the water and has only one mast remaining intact. It flies the flag of Durenor but the flag is upside down, a signal of distress.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shriek of the dying Szall is soon echoed by your own death-cry as two crossbow bolts embed themselves in your back.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing in a large, empty hall. Opposite are two doors, each with a brass sign above them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to enter the door marked <quote>White Passes</quote>, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to enter the door marked <quote>Red Passes</quote>, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to leave and approach the guards at the end of the street, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street ends abruptly at a large stone watchtower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to enter the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to return to the tavern, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search in his pack and are horrified to find that it contains a scroll of human skin upon which a message has been written in a strange runic script. The only word that you can make out is <quote>Kai</quote>. You also find an evil-looking dagger with a black blade, and a block of cold obsidian.</p>
- <p>These items bear the signs of the Darklords<ch.apos/> craft. Something is very wrong here. You drop the pack as quickly as if it were red-hot and turn to mount your horse. To your dismay, you find it is no longer there: the Szalls must have stolen it. Wearily, you realize you will now have to continue your journey on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The meal is poor. It is made up of yesterday<ch.apos/>s leftovers, and what the captain tells you as you finish your meagre supper confirms your suspicions.</p>
- <p><quote>I have a confession to make, Kai Lord. The fire destroyed our entire food store; we had barely enough in the galley for this meal. I fear that we will have to survive on a diet of fresh fish until we reach Port Bax.</quote></p>
- <p>Unless you have food in your Backpack, the poor meal leaves you hungry and you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>After dinner, the captain challenges you to a game of Samor, a board game a little like chess, involving skilful strategy and bluff. To add a little excitement, he suggests a small wager.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you wish to accept his offer, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you wish to decline the game, bid the captain goodnight and return to your cabin to sleep by <link-text>turning to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a strong aura of evil surrounding these cloaked riders. Your Kai sense warns you not to follow Rhygar and his men on their impetuous charge. You shout a warning to them to stop them attacking, but it is too late. You cannot be heard above their battle-cries and the thundering hooves of their mounts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow this dingy street until it turns sharply eastwards into Lookout Street. In the far distance, you can see the River Dorn which separates the east and west sides of Ragadorn.</p>
- <p>As you walk through the pouring rain, three suspicious men appear from an alley to start to follow you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to stop and confront these men, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to continue walking, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you would prefer to run towards the river, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Will you:</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">Say you are lost and ask for shelter for the night? <link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">Pretend to be a peasant looking for work? <link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">Decide to ask directions for Port Bax? <link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the left tunnel is the quickest route to Hammerdal by about two miles. Just before you reach the junction you come across a large puddle in the centre of the highway. You notice that two sets of footprints, about the size and shape of a man<ch.apos/>s boot trail away from the water and lead off into both tunnels. The prints are still wet and you judge that they were made within the last twenty minutes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to enter the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to enter the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain orders the crew to hoist all the sails to attempt to outrun the vessel, but the pirate ship is fast and is trying to cross the bows of the Green Sceptre. A collision seems imminent.</p>
- <p><quote>Prepare to ram,</quote> the captain cries, as the side of the red-sailed warship looms up directly in front of the prow. There is an enormous crack of splintered timber as the Green Sceptre punches a large hole into the side of the pirate ship, and you are thrown to the deck with a jolt.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>The black-clad shape of a Drakkarim warrior</line>
- <line>is advancing towards you, a large</line>
- <line>broadsword raised</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="624" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="624" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As the pirates clamber aboard, you are horrified to see the black-clad shape of a Drakkarim warrior in their midst. He has spotted you and he is advancing towards you, a large broadsword raised above his head. You must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect327-1-foot" idref="sect327-1">
- <p>If you do not have 6 Gold Crowns, the boy will sell the papers to you for however many you have, including zero. These papers need not be marked on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (and thus do not require a Backpack to carry them in). Without these papers, it would be possible to wander endlessly in Port Bax.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are slowly walking back along the cobbled street, trying to think of the best course of action, when a young boy approaches you. <quote>I can get you into the harbour, mister,</quote> he says, <quote>but it<ch.apos/>ll cost you.</quote></p>
- <p>He produces an envelope containing a sheaf of official-looking papers. <quote>These<ch.apos/>ll get you a red pass at the port watchtower. All yours for only 6 Gold Crowns.</quote><footref id="sect327-1" idref="sect327-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>If you wish to buy the documents, pay the boy 6 Gold Crowns. If you refuse them, he will soon lose interest in you and will disappear. When you have made your decision, you return to the port watchtower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to enter, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you would rather walk back along the tree-lined avenue to the city hall and enquire how you can reach the consulate of Sommerlund, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect328-1-foot" idref="sect328-1">
- <p>If you have ever been given a Crystal Star Pendant, turn to <a idref="sect113">Section 113</a>, regardless of whether or not you have lost it, or whether or not you have Tracking. The Tracking option should only be used if you have never received the Crystal Star Pendant.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two zombies try to block your passage but you cleave them in half with one sweep of the Sommerswerd. You are at the foot of the tower and you can now see a hunchbacked man in crimson robes above you. He wears a tall, curved tokmor, a magician<ch.apos/>s head-dress. It bears the emblem of a serpent. In his right hand is a black staff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess a Crystal Star Pendant, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.<footref id="sect328-1" idref="sect328-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to climb the tower and attack the hunchback, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to escape from this ship by jumping overboard, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Congratulations, Lone Wolf,</quote> says the captain, as he wipes the sweat from his furrowed brow, <quote>you are a masterful player.</quote></p>
- <p>He reaches into his waistcoat pocket and hands you a small pouch containing 10 Gold Crowns. You thank him for the game and offer him the chance to win back his stake the following evening. With a wry smile, he accepts your offer and bids you goodnight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">Return to your cabin by <link-text>turning to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within seconds, you are violently sick and then drift off into unconsciousness. It is nearly an hour before you awake. You feel dreadfully ill but you have survived the poison. Deduct 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. As you slowly regain your strength, the shock of what has happened turns to anger. You grab your equipment and stagger out of the room, intent on discovering the identity of your would-be assassin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly search the dead guard and discover a Sword, a Dagger and 3 Gold Crowns. You may take any of these Items and mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you hear the sound of iron-shod boots descending the stone steps, and you look up to see another watchtower guard on the landing above. As you run into the street, you can hear him cursing you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65"><link-text>Turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a Helghast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>It is attacking you with a powerful Mindblast. If you do not have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, you will lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round of combat that you fight it. This creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">You may evade at any stage of the fight by diving into the forest, and <link-text>turning to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sailor who claimed to be First Mate Ronan seems to have escaped during the fight. You quickly search the bodies of the harbour thugs, but find nothing of value. However, you do notice that each of them has a tattoo of a serpent on their left wrist. Whoever sent them to kill you must already know of the importance of your quest.</p>
- <p>You leave the tavern by the side door and discover the dead body of a sailor lying beneath some stairs. Inside the collar of his bloodstained jacket is a tag bearing the name <quote>Ronan</quote>. This must be the real Ronan. He has been murdered. You cover the body and turn towards the quay, where the Green Sceptre is anchored about three hundred yards from the harbour wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to use one of the many small boats or coracles that are roped to the quayside, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to hunt down the impostor who pretended to be Ronan, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few miles, the track becomes tangled and overgrown, until all trace of it has completely disappeared. The ride becomes slow and difficult as you strain to avoid the bogs and potholes of this moor.</p>
- <p>After several hours you reach the edge of Durenor forest, and above the ferns, you notice a tall watchtower. A spiral of smoke rises lazily from a hidden chimney.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to enter the forest and investigate the tower, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to ignore the tower and search for a forest track, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice a sign hanging outside a small shop.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small29.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small29.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <signpost>Klaspar<ch.emdash/>Astronomer and Sage</signpost>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to enter this shop and ask how you can reach Durenor, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to ignore this shop and continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a fraction of a second, the searing burst of flame changes direction in mid-air and is drawn towards the blade of the Sommerswerd. The bolt of energy disappears into the golden blade like water into a drain. (You remember that the Sommerswerd has the power to absorb magic. This power has saved you from certain death.)</p>
- <p>The sorcerer curses you, pulls a jewel from his ornate tokmor and throws it at your feet. There is a flash of flame and a cloud of choking green gas billows up in your face, filling your nostrils with its acidic smell. You are forced to jump to the deck below to avoid the poisonous gas, and you just catch a glimpse of the sorcerer as he frantically paddles a small boat away from the death-hulk flagship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to dive into the sea and swim after him, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to fight your way back to a Durenese warship, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect337-1-foot" idref="sect337-1">
- <p>Though you keep your Backpack itself, you lose everything it contained in addition to your Weapons and the Chainmail Waistcoat, if you had one. This was clarified by Joe Dever in Lone Wolf Club Newsletter #2.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you are only fifty yards offshore, you slip into the waves and swim towards land. When you finally reach the beach, you sink your fingers deep into the wet sand and slowly claw your way up the beach to the shelter of some dunes. You are exhausted and very hungry. The only possessions that you have saved are your Gold Crowns, your Backpack and any Special Items that you did not discard in the storm. Any weapons that you possessed before the storm have been lost.<footref id="sect337-1" idref="sect337-1-foot"/> Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. However, a few hundred yards away, you notice clumps of small twisted trees laden with purple fruit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to eat this fruit, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you do not wish to eat this fruit, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect338-1-foot" idref="sect338-1">
- <p>If you choose to run away, erase the Magic Spear from your <a idref="action">Action Chart.</a></p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grasp the haft of the spear and level it at the approaching Helghast. It shrieks a desperate cry for it knows that it cannot avoid being impaled on the sharp tip of your spear. The shock of impact knocks you backwards and you crash to the highway below, losing 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The Helghast hits the ground barely seconds later, driving the spear through its black heart, and dying instantly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to remove the spear, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you would rather leave the spear where it is and run away from here as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.<footref id="sect338-1" idref="sect338-1-foot"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After only half an hour, the coach is stopped by some armed horsemen. They wear the black ship and red crest emblem of Lachlan the Overlord of Ragadorn. They demand gold in payment for what they call <quote>exit taxes</quote>: one Crown from each passenger. The other travellers each place a Crown on a small plate and hand it to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you can pay the tax, do so and the coach will be allowed to go on its way. <link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you have no money, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been walking along the deserted tunnel for a further half-hour when the highway splits in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to enter the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to enter the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shattered beams and torn sails are all that remain of the unfortunate merchant ship. You ask the captain to search for survivors but he ignores your plea and orders the crew to continue their duties. As the wreckage gradually disappears from view, the nagging fear that a similar fate could await you makes your throat dry. You descend below deck and take care to lock the cabin door behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He is a mountain of a man, completely bald and with large gold rings hanging from each ear. He looks at you suspiciously and says, <quote>Ale is one Gold Crown, a bed for the night is two. Which do you want?</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small30.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small30.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to buy some ale, pay the innkeeper 1 Gold Crown and <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to stay here for the night, pay the man 2 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you want neither, but merely wish to ask him a little bit about Ragadorn, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that you were the intended victim of this supposed accident. One of the passengers is trying to kill you!</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense reveals to you that the strangers are Helghast, fell captains of the Darklords. They have been sent from the Darklord city of Helgedad on a mission of assassination. They have the ability to take on the appearance of humans and they are immune to normal weapons and Mindblast.</p>
- <p>You turn to shout a warning to Rhygar as you run for the safety of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183"><link-text>Turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A fierce battle now rages throughout the ship as the evil Giaks fight to win control of the Green Sceptre. Perched high up in the masts, the Kraan are rending the sails with their talons and razor-sharp teeth whilst the Zlanbeast have flown back towards Wreck Point to pick up more nets of malicious Giaks.</p>
- <p>Through the body-strewn decks, a menacing shape looms. Both Giaks and sailors are cut down by the creature as it advances towards you. It is a Drakkar, a cruel warrior of the Darklords. Raising his <!--ERRTAG-RE-358734-->jet-black<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358734--> broadsword, he attacks and you must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect346-1-foot" idref="sect346-1">
- <p>The restriction on Hunting in the Wildlands applies only to the ability to fulfil instructions to eat a Meal automatically. You may still use Hunting when prompted to do so. However, until given further notice, you must obey instructions to eat Meals as if you did not have Hunting. This includes the instruction in this same section; you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points right now if you neither pay for the Meal nor consume one from your Backpack.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The driver nods and hands back the ticket. The inn is warm but poorly furnished. You must eat a Meal here which will cost you 1 Gold Crown unless you have a Meal in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>The Kai Discipline of Hunting cannot be used on your journey through the Wildlands, as it is a barren wasteland inhabited only by creatures called Szalls, a weak and cowardly breed of Giak.<footref id="sect346-1" idref="sect346-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you can afford the 1 Gold Crown for the room, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you have no money, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of this street is a large stable. To your right, you can see some of the mob searching the shops and houses. Suddenly, one of them sees you and raises the alarm. <quote>There he is<ch.emdash/>there<ch.apos/>s the murderer!</quote></p>
- <p>There is no time to think. You rush into the stable and freeing one of the horses you leap on its back. As you ride out into the moonlight, an axe flies through the air and grazes your shoulder. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and make your escape into the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sailor<ch.apos/>s face changes from a smile to a sneer at your reply. He quickly moves away from the table.</p>
- <p><quote>Perhaps neither you nor I are all we claim to be. No matter. You will not live long enough to discover who I really am!</quote> You hear a door crash open behind you. Spinning round, you see three harbour thugs moving towards you. Each is armed with a scimitar and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Harbour Thugs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect125">You may evade after two rounds of combat by using a side door, and <link-text>turning to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered nearly three miles when you see a group of wagons in the distance. They have been strung out across the highway to form a barricade. Soldiers in red uniforms line the roofs of the wagons and a large crowd of people have gathered behind them. You can hear their excited chatter echoing along the tunnel. As you get closer, there is a sudden silence as all eyes turn to stare at you. A detachment of ten soldiers, led by a knight whose shield bears the royal arms of Durenor, advances towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you wish to attack these soldiers, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to raise your hands and walk towards them, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holmgard has suffered much since your departure. Many of the shops and houses you remember passing on your way to the quay, are little more now than heaps of ashes. The Darklords<ch.apos/> army with their evil engines of war surround the walls, and the flaming arcs of fireballs shooting through the <!--ERRTAG-RE-364171-->air continually<!--/ERRTAG-RE-364171--> light the night sky as they rain down on the streets below. The people fight the fire as best they can, but they are hungry and exhausted and close to surrender. At first, as it enters the harbour, the fleet is mistaken for the enemy and cries of despair can be heard all along the quay. But as the first of the soldiers set foot in the city and unfurl the royal arms of Durenor, the news of your return spreads quickly. The cries of despair have changed to a chorus of cheers: <quote>The Kai Lord has returned.</quote></p>
- <p>You are standing at the top of the great watchtower, high above the main gate of the city, when the first light of dawn creeps slowly over the horizon. Thousand upon thousand of the black-clad enemy are massed around the city wall, huddled like beetles in the trenches that cover the plain. In the midst of this horde, a great red tent has been erected bearing the symbol of a broken skull. It is the mark of Zagarna, Lord of Kaag, a Darklord of Helgedad. His great ambition is the destruction of Holmgard; his fiercest desire to lead his army to victory over the House of Ulnar and claim Sommerlund for his own.</p>
- <p>But victory is not to be his this day. Raising the Sommerswerd high above your head, a shaft of dawn sunlight catches upon the tip of the golden sword and a brilliant flash of blinding white flame runs the entire length of the blade. The power of the Sommerswerd electrifies you. Your senses reel and now your body reacts instinctively. You lower the Sommerswerd and point the blade towards the tent of Lord Zagarna. There is a mighty roar as the power of the sun-sword is unleashed in a searing white beam. The tent explodes and a brilliant fireball of white flame mushrooms skyward. A long and terrible cry rends the air. It is Lord Zagarna. The leader of the evil army is no more.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <line>There is a mighty roar as the power of the sun-sword</line>
- <line>is unleashed in a searing white beam</line>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="772" height="586" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="772" height="586" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Gripped with fear and panic, the vast black army rise up and run in chaos from the city wall. The impossible has happened, their invincible master is slain. Again the Sommerswerd has returned to defeat them. The army and the allies of Durenor ride out of the city gates in pursuit of the panic-stricken enemy as they run blindly towards the Durncrag Mountains. The victory is yours. Holmgard is saved and the murder of the Kai has finally been avenged.</p>
- <p>But for you, Lone Wolf, a life of high adventure has only just begun. A new challenge awaits you and the Sommerswerd in Book Three of the Lone Wolf series:</p>
- <p><cite><bookref series="lw" book="03tcok">The Caverns of Kalte</bookref></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Map of the Lastlands</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/jpeg" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.gif" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="385" height="182" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <p>
- <line><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- <line><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- </p>
- <p>Kai Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Bonus Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/>: 6th Discipline if you've completed one Lone Wolf Adventure successfully</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Weapons:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Belt Pouch: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Meals: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Backpack Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Special Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character <!--ERRTAG-RE-373801-->fall to 0 or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-373801-->.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <table summary="This table provides the endurance losses sustained by the hero and enemy as a result of combat.">
- <caption>Combat Results with combined hero and enemy endurance losses</caption>
-
- <colgroup span="1" />
- <colgroup span="13" />
-
- <tfoot>
- <tr>
- <td colspan="14">Combat results are given enemy's endurance loss first followed by the hero's endurance loss. For example, "12/0" means that the enemy loses 12 endurance points while the hero loses 0 endurance points. A combat result of "k" means that the combatant is killed. For example, "0/k" means that the enemy loses 0 endurance points while the hero is killed.</td>
- </tr>
- </tfoot>
-
- <tbody>
- <tr>
- <th rowspan="2" scope="col">Random Number</th>
- <th colspan="13" scope="colgroup">Combat Ratio</th>
- </tr>
-
- <tr>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-11 or lower</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-10/ -9</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-8/ -7</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-6/ -5</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-4/ -3</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-2/ -1</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">0</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">1/ 2</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">3/ 4</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">5/ 6</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">7/ 8</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">9/ 10</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">11 or higher</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">1</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/6</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/4</td>
- <td>7/4</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">2</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">3</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">4</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">5</th>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">6</th>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/6</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/1</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- <td>16/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">7</th>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/1</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">8</th>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>8/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/1</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">9</th>
- <td>5/3</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">0</th>
- <td>6/0</td>
- <td>7/0</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- </tbody>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance class="text">
- <table>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>6</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>6</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced <quote>seastorms</quote> with <quote>sea-storms</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>. Removed <quote> that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied.</quote> Split the last paragraph into two starting with <quote>Through your experiences</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-10688-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-10688-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-12811-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to zero</quote> with <quote>fall to zero or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12811-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Discipline section</quote> with <quote>Kai Disciplines section</quote>. Capitalized all occurrences of <quote>discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed the <quote>1=, 2=,<ch.ellips/></quote> in the <quote>How to carry your equipment</quote> section. These were obviously carried over from <bookref series="lw" book="01fftd">Flight from the Dark</bookref><ch.apos/>s random number equipment assignment, which is now obsolete.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Removed <quote> on the last page of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="levels">Levels of Kai Training</a>) The Levels of Kai Training section did not originally appear in this book, but has been added for the reader<ch.apos/>s information.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Kai Wisdom</a>) Removed <quote> on the back cover of the book</quote> and replaced <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Replaced <quote>Sandsnake</quote> with <quote>sandsnake</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-48175-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>agreeing a wager</quote> with <quote>agreeing to a wager</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-48175-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>razor sharp</quote> with <quote>razor-sharp</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>Fox He</quote> with <quote>Fox. He</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Capitalized <quote>wildlands</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Lord-Lieutenant</quote> with <quote>Lord-lieutenant</quote>. Replaced <quote>lord-lieutenant</quote> with <quote>Lord-lieutenant</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-68919-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-68919-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>rib-cage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>Lord-Lieutenant</quote> with <quote>Lord-lieutenant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced the first word <quote>The</quote> with <quote>A</quote>. This is the first time you meet the priest<ch.emdash/>the introduction to the other coach members comes later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Moved the Animal Kinship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>it, their</quote> with <quote>it. Their</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Replaced <quote>staffbearer</quote> with <quote>staff-bearer</quote> and <quote>Lord-Lieutenant</quote> with <quote>Lord-lieutenant</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-102954-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sir, requires</quote> with <quote>Sir requires</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102954-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect78">78</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-106008-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-106008-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>, and <quote>enemies, eg Helghasts, in</quote> with <quote>enemies (e.g. Helghast) in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>leatherbound</quote> with <quote>leather-bound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Moved the Camouflage choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>) Moved the choice to heal the wounded man into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-126686-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126686-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>magician<ch.apos/>s guild</quote> with <quote>Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Moved the Animal Kinship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position and replaced <quote>Pick</quote> with <quote>If not, pick</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>king<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>King<ch.apos/>s</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>Vonatar</quote> with <quote>Vonotar</quote>, and <quote>jail</quote> with <quote>goal</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>If you have no Weapon, deduct</quote> with <quote>Deduct</quote> since Lone Wolf has had no opportunity to acquire Weapons.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Moved the paragraph about keeping the Magic Spear before the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>well-known</quote> with <quote>well known</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-165537-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-165537-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-172186-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172186-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>marshbird</quote> with <quote>marsh-bird</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>succesful</quote> with <quote>successful</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Replaced <quote>warfleet</quote> with <quote>war fleet</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-190168-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-190168-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>gaming house</quote> with <quote>gaming-house</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position. Replaced <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote> in the illustration<ch.apos/>s caption. Replaced <quote>Hammerdal mountains</quote> with <quote>Hammerdal Mountains</quote>, and <quote>king<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>King<ch.apos/>s</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) <quote>Useful</quote> in the last sentence of the first paragraph didn<ch.apos/>t need to be capitalized.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Replaced <quote>sommersaults</quote> with <quote>somersaults</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) Replaced <quote>ill-omen</quote> with <quote>ill omen</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-216376-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216376-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>Lord-Lieutenant</quote> with <quote>Lord-lieutenant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>) Replaced <quote>housemice</quote> with <quote>house mice</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>magician<ch.apos/>s guild</quote> with <quote>Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>king<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>King<ch.apos/>s</quote> and <quote>Lord-Lieutenant</quote> with <quote>Lord-lieutenant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Replaced <quote>assasinates</quote> with <quote>assassinates</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>says in a cynical voice.</quote> with <quote>says in a cynical voice:</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-242228-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-242228-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) There was a superfluous comma between <quote>dreadful</quote> and <quote>significance</quote> in the first paragraph.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-250221-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>distance to left</quote> with <quote>distance to the left</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-250221-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.<!--ERRTAG-RE-252737-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-252737-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-255863-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255863-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect237">237</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-258314-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258314-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) <quote>he</quote> has now been capitalized.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) Replaced <quote>(eg</quote> with <quote>(e.g.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>weaponskill</quote> with <quote>Weaponskill</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-281741-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>person</quote> with <quote>people</quote> to agree in number to the second choice.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-281741-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>warfleet</quote> with <quote>war fleet</quote>. Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-288964-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-288964-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect274">274</a>) Replaced <quote>first floor</quote> with <quote>first-floor</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) It makes sense to restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the total you had before the match regardless of whether you win or lose. We changed this to be more clear. The original read:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>If you lose, restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the same total that you had before the contest, and <a idref="sect192">turn to 192</a>.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>staffbearer</quote> with <quote>staff-bearer</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Replaced <quote>Hammerdal mountains</quote> with <quote>Hammerdal Mountains</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>Jala</quote> with <quote>jala</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-306625-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>seal</quote> with <quote>Seal</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306625-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>If you do not have a Weapon, you</quote> with <quote>You</quote> since Lone Wolf has had no opportunity to acquire Weapons.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">Section 299</a>) The original edition of this book reads: <quote>If you wish to give him your Magic Spear, so that he can defend the tunnel entrance, <a idref="sect102">turn to 102</a>. If you do not possess a Magic Spear, or do not wish to give it to Rhygar, <a idref="sect118">turn to 118</a>.</quote> Later editions came out reversing these two choices (i.e. the first choice leads to <a idref="sect118">Section 118</a>, the second choice to <a idref="sect102">Section 102</a>). Both of these versions are very problematic to game flow and inspired a controversy among the members of Project Aon. The version that you see in our text is a mixed scenario intended to most closely match the author<ch.apos/>s surmised original intention, even though it does not appear in either previously published version.</p>
- <p>If you wish to use either of the previously published versions, then refer to the appropriate choice as listed here. Discussion of the different versions follows:</p>
- <p>Original version: The choices appear to serve no other purpose other than punishing Lone Wolf with certain death for mercifully handing Rhygar the Spear. The fact that this version was revised and the path that Lone Wolf is given in the <cite>Legends of Lone Wolf</cite> series also both appear to refute the correctness of this version.</p>
- <p>Revised version: Under this version, it is impossible for Lone Wolf to succeed without taking the left path back at the beginning of the Durenor Forest (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>), ignoring the warning of the Szalls, and fighting the Helghast. This directly contradicts the statement in <a idref="kaiwisdm">Kai Wisdom</a> that a wise choice of Disciplines enables you to succeed regardless of your starting <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- <p>Project Aon version: Although never previously published, this scenario allows Lone Wolf to succeed despite giving the Magic Spear to Rhygar.</p>
- <p>Replaced <quote>Hammerdal mountains</quote> with <quote>Hammerdal Mountains</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>Wanlo</quote> with <quote>wanlo</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-323352-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-323352-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-325953-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>score reaches zero</quote> with <quote>score reaches zero or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-325953-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-326475-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>points to zero</quote> with <quote>points to zero or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326475-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-325241-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Each dice</quote> with <quote>Each die</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-325241-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>) Replaced <quote>rainswept</quote> with <quote>rain-swept</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-330010-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330010-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Moved the Hunting choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Moved the Mind Over Matter choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect321">321</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Added <quote>This creature is immune to Mindblast.</quote> to the end of the final paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position. Replaced <quote>pot-holes</quote> with <quote>potholes</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Moved the Hunting choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-358734-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358734-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-364171-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>air, continually</quote> with <quote>air continually</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-364171-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-373801-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to 0</quote> with <quote>fall to 0 or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-373801-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect9">Section 9</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect26">Section 26</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect37">Section 37</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect79">Section 79</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect100">Section 100</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect118">Section 118</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect134">Section 134</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect144">Section 144</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect166">Section 166</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect176">Section 176</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect222">Section 222</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect238">Section 238</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect249">Section 249</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect268">Section 268</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect284">Section 284</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect314">Section 314</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect326">Section 326</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map of the Lastlands</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a></li>
- <li><a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect4">Section 4</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect12">Section 12</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect18">Section 18</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect31">Section 31</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect41">Section 41</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect55">Section 55</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect62">Section 62</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect73">Section 73</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect82">Section 82</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect95">Section 95</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect109">Section 109</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect127">Section 127</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect138">Section 138</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect146">Section 146</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect150">Section 150</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect160">Section 160</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect173">Section 173</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect181">Section 181</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect191">Section 191</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect202">Section 202</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect215">Section 215</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect230">Section 230</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect240">Section 240</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect257">Section 257</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect276">Section 276</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect300">Section 300</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect303">Section 303</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect335">Section 335</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect342">Section 342</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
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-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.10 2007/05/20 22:00:17 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.9 2007/04/30 17:55:17 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.8 2006/09/14 14:48:00 Wibbleboy
-o Made various errata/non errata changes.
-o Updated errata section to combine all changes for a given page in a single entry.
-
-Revision 1.7 2006/09/12 08:49:08 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.6 2006/09/07 14:05:53 Wibbleboy
-o Added ammo usage footnotes
-o Corrected various errata and non-errate errors.
-
-Revision 1.5 2006/09/06 09:01:34 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few formatting errors
-o Implemented series-wide consistency changes
-
-Revision 1.4 2006/06/19 08:21:47 Wibbleboy
-Made errata changes for consistency with other books in series.
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/12/07 12:43:22 Wibbleboy
-Applied misc formatting changes to match manual of style.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/12/01 17:19:47 Wibbleboy
-Major update: added front/backmatter, corrected numbered references, added illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:16 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 05:26:08 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-<meta>
- <title>Slaughter Mountain Run</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.fw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.fw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>12</month><day>17</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, the Freeway Warrior, champion and protector of Dallas Colony One. From the sanctuary of Big Spring your convoy of survivors begins the next stage of its life-or-death exodus: a journey to the fortified border town of El Paso, a destination that lies hundreds of miles beyond the sun-scorched wasteland of West Texas. In Slaughter Mountain Run your mission is to rescue Kate Norton from the clutches of your arch enemy<ch.emdash/>the HAVOC leader Mad Dog Michigan. You have just seven days to free her and to rendezvous with the colony before it runs the gauntlet of fire that protects the only mountain road to El Paso.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Mick, Michelle and Ryan</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="dtd" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Mohamed Sha'Aidil</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Iain Smith</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Mohamed Sha'Aidil, Iain Smith</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne, Iain Smith</dd>
- <!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd></dd> -->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dtd">
- <meta>
- <title>Dateline to Disaster</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><strong>1990-1998</strong><br />Rise of global terrorism on an unprecedented scale. Political violence funded by organized crime syndicate called HAVOC<ch.emdash/>The Hijack, Assassination and Violent Opposition Consortium.</p>
- <p><strong>1998-2003</strong><br />The governments of many small and impoverished nations fall into the hands of HAVOC. International terrorists receive arms, training, and shelter in these 'Badlands'.</p>
- <p><strong>2003-2008</strong><br />Raids on oil and gas installations, assassinations, and the kidnapping of prominent world statesmen become commonplace as HAVOC attempt to terrorize the civilized world into submission. Despite public outrage and growing international tension, the major powers refuse steadfastly to give in to HAVOC's demands.</p>
- <p><strong>2008</strong><br />President of the United States and General Secretary of Supreme Soviet both assassinated at emergency summit meeting. US, USSR and major European nations create the World Defence League and declare war on HAVOC. The Badlands are invaded, key HAVOC bases destroyed, and thousands of HAVOC agents are captured.</p>
- <p><strong>2009</strong><br />HAVOC leaders imprisoned for life in 'Deep Pens'<ch.emdash/>maximum security gaols located deep underground<ch.emdash/>to prevent their escape or release by HAVOC agents still at large.</p>
- <p><strong>2010</strong><br />New leadership emerges to unify the scattered remnants of HAVOC and plan revenge.</p>
- <p><strong>2011</strong><br />A WDL train transporting seventeen 100-kiloton nuclear warheads, destined to be neutralized and dismantled, is attacked by HAVOC agents. The train is destroyed and its deadly cargo stolen.</p>
- <p><strong>2012 New Year's Day</strong><br />HAVOC hijack a WDL news satellite and broadcast a chilling ultimatum. They have planted the seventeen stolen warheads in major cities throughout the US, USSR and Europe. They call for the immediate release of all HAVOC agents held in Deep Pens, plus the payment of $2 trillion in gold bullion, or they will trigger the warheads one by one until their demands are met in full. A twenty-four hour deadline is set. WDL leaders declare emergency and request that the deadline be extended. HAVOC refuse.</p>
- <p><strong>2nd January</strong><br />First warhead detonated at Brie Nuclear Energy Plant, ten miles south of Paris, France. Blast and radioactive fallout claim millions of lives. HAVOC repeat their demand and extend deadline by twenty-four hours.</p>
- <p><strong>3rd January 'The Day'</strong><br />World Defence League agents discover location of HAVOC command headquarters on an island in the South Pacific Ocean. Immediately orders are given to infiltrate and destroy the HQ and its occupants. The assault is swift and decisive; the complex is quickly overrun and its inhabitants are killed. Yet, ironically, as the news of this victory is being relayed around the world, HAVOC enact their ultimate revenge. A transmitter hidden on the island, fitted with a time-delay mechanism, clicks on, sending its high-frequency radio signal to a communications satellite orbiting the earth. This signal is amplified and returned to earth where, simultaneously, it triggers the remaining nuclear warheads. The initial explosions set off a disastrous chain reaction that feeds on civil and military nuclear installations all across the northern hemisphere. Hundreds of millions of people are killed within days, and many more perish during the years that follow, falling victim to the lingering radioactivity and the severe climatic changes that affect the earth.</p>
- <p><strong>2012-2019</strong><br />Gale force winds sweep across the world, carrying enormous amounts of dust into the upper atmosphere and preventing much sunlight from reaching the earth's surface. Temperatures plummet, deterring survivors from remaining above ground. Communications are disrupted by gamma radiation, making all radio, cable and satellite contact impossible. Small colonies of survivors develop in total isolation from one another during these years of darkness.</p>
- <p><strong>2019-2020</strong><br />Gradually, the dust storms die down and the sun penetrates the atmosphere, thawing the earth's frozen surface. Radiation has decayed to tolerable levels, and survivors emerge to reclaim what little remains of the world they once knew.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far</title>
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- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
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- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, a survivor, born in California on Thanksgiving Day in the year AD 2000. In 2012, whilst on winter vacation at your Uncle Jonas' and Aunt Betty-Ann's ranch in Texas, you were invited to visit a shale-oil mine near Austin, the first of its kind in Texas. As Chief of Construction, your uncle was proud to take you on a guided tour of the whole underground complex, which, for security reasons, was totally self-supporting. It was during this tour on 3 January 2012, that the unthinkable happened.</p>
- <p>You remember how the ground shuddered when the shock waves from the first distant explosions reached the mine. Immediately you assumed it was the start of an earthquake, which you had experienced many times at home in California. However, as the levels nearest the surface began to collapse and the central elevator shaft filled with rubble, you realized the awful truth: the holocaust. At first there was no way of telling the extent of the surface devastation. Below ground, the safety generators had switched into operation automatically when the main power supply failed, and the tremors had faded quickly, which encouraged your aunt and uncle to believe that the damage above was superficial. Uncle Jonas was confident that the military would mount a rescue operation and that you would be brought out within a few days, a week at the most. Aunt Betty-Ann, too, was optimistic. After all, there were emergency supplies<ch.emdash/>enough to feed 200 men for a whole month. Little did she know that the three of you would end up consuming all those supplies, or that the mine would become your home, your shelter and your prison for the next eight years of your lives.</p>
- <p>It was early September in the year 2019 when eventually you broke through to the surface. When first you set eyes on the landscape surrounding the mine, it was like looking at the surface of another planet. Few structures had survived the blizzards and intense cold that had swept around the world in the years following 'The Day', and now, after the dust had settled and the sun had returned, the once-fertile plains of Austin resembled little more than a desert of parched and broken rock, littered with the artefacts of an absent civilization.</p>
- <p>During the first few days, when you set out to explore this wilderness, it was easy to believe that you were the only survivors. But on the morning of the fifth day Uncle Jonas made chance radio contact with a family called Ewell who were living near the ruins of McKinney, thirty miles north of Dallas. They told him that they had been in touch with a handful of other groups who had managed somehow to survive the holocaust. Most were isolated and unable to move due to lack of fuel, food, or water. They had urged those who could travel to join them in McKinney to start a new community there, and some people were already on their way. When your uncle and aunt accepted their invitation, the Ewells were enthusiastic, but they also warned you to be wary<ch.emdash/>not everyone who had survived wanted to establish a new community. The ruins of some large Texan cities, such as Dallas and Fort Worth, were controlled by gangs of criminals who fought with each other and terrorized anyone seeking to reestablish law and order. They urged you to avoid these gangs at all costs.</p>
- <p>It took more than a week to discover a vehicle that could transport you to McKinney. It was an old school bus, one that had been parked in an underground lot and had survived the years of sub-zero blizzards. With fuel and spares salvaged from the mine, you managed to coax it back to life, and then set off on your journey north.</p>
- <p>When you arrived at the town, it was easy to find where the Ewells lived<ch.emdash/>their ranch was the only place that was still standing. It looked more like an old frontier post than a ranch, with its fortified perimeter wall, lookout posts and stake-filled moat. However, after being ambushed and shot at by the city gangs of Fort Worth during the final stages of your journey, you fully appreciated the need for these defences.</p>
- <p>'Pop' Ewell, the seventy-year-old grandfather of the Ewell family, was the leader of this small colony of survivors, and it was he who had urged Uncle Jonas to join them when they had first made radio contact. The colony numbered less than a dozen at the time of your arrival, yet, as the airwaves became clearer and new contacts were made, soon this number had more than doubled to twenty-five. It was decided that a name was needed to identify the settlement. The name 'Dallas Colony One' was adopted, known as 'DC1' for short. From that day on, everyone worked hard to make DC1 a secure haven for those seeking refuge from the hostile wastelands and marauding city gangs.</p>
- <p>'Cutter' Jacks was one such refugee. Before 'The Day' he had been chief mechanic at the International Grand Prix Circuit near Lake Dallas, and his incredible skill with, and knowledge of, engines was soon to prove invaluable to the colony. He taught you how to drive, and from a pile of old wrecks that you helped him salvage from the circuit, he built you a powerful, customized car. You used it to patrol the highways north of the city, keeping a lookout for gangs of city punks who frequently mounted raids to steal or destroy DC1's supplies. Cutter also taught you to shoot. It was your natural prowess with a gun, and your skill behind the wheel, that was to earn you the begrudging respect of your enemies, who took to calling you 'the Freeway Warrior'.</p>
-
- <p>Six months after you arrived at DC1, the colony was faced with a major crisis. A heat wave was causing a drought that threatened to destroy the food supply. Crops were failing and the colony's artesian well, its only source of uncontaminated water, was beginning to dry up. The drought was also provoking more attacks from the city punks, who were desperate for food and water. Their common need had united them and now they posed a very real threat to the security of DC1.</p>
- <p>It was the last day of May, 2020, when Pop Ewell made radio contact with another colony who were based in the city of Big Spring, 300 miles west of McKinney. Their situation was completely the reverse of DC1's: they had food and water in plentiful supply but they were desperately short of fuel. They told of their contact with survivors in Tucson, Arizona, who were also without fuel. The Tucson colony reported that the territories west of the Sierra Nevada mountains had been spared the worst effects of the radioactive blizzards that had devastated the rest of the country and, miraculously, much of southern California was still widely populated. In fact, it had survived the last eight years virtually intact. When you heard the news you could hardly believe your ears. Perhaps your family was still alive. After all that had happened, there was now a real hope that one day you might be reunited with them.</p>
- <p>A meeting was held to decide how best to deal with the crisis facing DC1. Everyone agreed that to stay at McKinney would lead eventually to death, either slowly from starvation or suddenly at the hands of the murderous city gangs. The only choice open to DC1 was to try to reach California; only there lay real hope for the future of the colony. The decision was relayed to the survivors at Big Spring and a deal was struck to rendezvous with them as soon as possible. DC1 would refuel them in exchange for food and water, and together they would join up with the Tucson colony for the final stage of the journey to California.</p>
- <p>Careful preparations were made for the long trek, and three vehicles were chosen to make up the convoy: the school bus, your customized roadster, and a gasolene tanker laden with 5000 gallons of petroleum siphoned from underground storage tanks at the Ewell ranch. Supplies of food and water were adequate but the colony lacked sufficient firearms and ammunition with which to defend itself. So, on the day before the convoy was due to leave, one of the colonists was sent north to search the town of Sherman for weapons. He radioed back to say that he had found a cache of hunting rifles and ammunition, but that his truck had broken down and he was stranded in the town. He had also found a survivor<ch.emdash/>a beautiful teenage girl<ch.emdash/>and he requested that you be sent to Sherman to pick them up. As soon as you arrived you were ambushed by the scouts of a brutal gang of bikers known as the Detroit Lions and, in the ensuing gun battle, you killed Stinger<ch.emdash/>the scouts' leader.</p>
- <p>Later, you learned that the girl, Kate Norton, was the sole survivor of a Kansas City colony, which had been attacked and wiped out by the Detroit Lions. The Lions' leader, who calls himself 'Mad Dog Michigan', had taken a liking to her and spared her life. Mad Dog had once been a high-ranking HAVOC agent. He had escaped from Pontiac Deep Pen near Detroit, and he and his gang, most of whom were also HAVOC escapees, were heading for the Fort Hood Military Reserve near Killeen, Texas, the largest armoury in the whole of the United States. There he hoped to find enough weapons to equip the other HAVOC clans who were now in control of cities all along the eastern seaboard. Kate had managed to steal a motorcycle and escape from their camp, but Mad Dog had been determined to get her back. He sent his brother<ch.emdash/>Stinger and a handful of his best scouts to track her down. They had finally caught up with her at Sherman.</p>
-
- <p>When Mad Dog learned that you had killed his brother, he vowed to get even with you at any price. He abandoned his plans to loot Fort Hood and embarked instead on a relentless pursuit of your colony as it crossed the sun-scorched wastelands of central Texas. The journey to Big Spring was fraught with great danger. Yet, in spite of the many perils you faced, perhaps because of them, you felt yourself falling in love with Kate and you sensed that she, too, was becoming increasingly fond of you.</p>
- <p>Sadly, the convoy was only a few miles from Big Spring when disaster struck. The land surrounding the settlement was controlled by a gang of bikers, a renegade clan called the 'Mavericks' who had been the bane of the Big Spring colony for many months. As the convoy drew nearer to its destination, the Mavericks launched an attack, and, in the running battle that ensued, they captured and abducted Kate. The convoy entered the fortified gates of Big Spring to a rapturous welcome from the colonists of that settlement, but for you the mood of celebration was soured by the vivid memory of Kate's abduction. You vowed to rescue her, and, from that moment on, every waking minute of every day at Big Spring was spent thinking about little else.</p>
- <p>By chance it transpired that the leader of the Mavericks, a blond-haired murderer called Amex Gold, was a former HAVOC agent who had served under Mad Dog Michigan before 'The Day'. He offered to join forces with the Lions, and, as a token of his loyalty to his former commander, he returned Kate to him. Together, the Lions and the Mavericks launched a hasty attack on Big Spring. However, although they outnumbered the colony by more than three to one, they were unable to breach the settlement's fortified perimeter wall, and were repelled with heavy losses.</p>
- <p>On the day after the attack, Pop Ewell discovered the radio frequency that the clansmen were using and was able to eavesdrop on their communications. He learned that Mad Dog had ordered another HAVOC clan, based in New Orleans, to come and reinforce his command; they were expected to arrive within the week. He also overheard Mad Dog arrange a meeting with Mekong Mike, the leader of the Angelinos, a gang that controlled the city of San Angelo. He wanted him as an ally and was prepared to offer guns and ammunition in return for his help in destroying the Big Spring colony.</p>
-
- <p>Two days later, Mad Dog Michigan set off for San Angelo at the head of a motorcycle pack 200 riders strong. Those few clansmen who remained with Amex Gold tried myriad tricks to convince the colony that the Mavericks and the Lions still surrounded Big Spring in strength, but to no avail. The senior members of the newly enlarged colony convened a meeting at which it was decided that, with the clansmen now at their weakest, and with the appearance of the New Orleans gang expected at any time, a breakout had to be attempted without delay.</p>
- <p>There is only one way for the colony to reach Tucson overland and that is to follow the remains of Interstate Freeway 10 through the arid, mountainous territory of western Texas. Precisely half-way between Big Spring and Tucson is situated the city of El Paso, which is chosen as the colony's first destination. The city lies at the end of a long, steep and tortuous stretch of mountain highway, and few doubt that the journey to El Paso will prove the most exacting test of strength and endurance any of you are ever likely to face during your long journey to California.</p>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
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- <data>
- <p>Before embarking on your adventure, you must first determine your personal characteristics and the weapons and provisions with which you are equipped. An <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> has been supplied on which to record and amend these details as the adventure unfolds.</p>
- <p>Your personal characteristics comprise two basic attributes: <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To discover your initial <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero. Add 10 to the number you have picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your Action Chart (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 5 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total of 15). When you fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat, your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be measured against that of your enemy, so a high score in this section is desirable.</p>
- <p>To discover your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level, repeat the process, but this time add 20 to the number you have picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 8 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a total <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score of 28). If you are wounded in combat, or injured at any other time during your adventure you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If, at any time, your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total falls to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. You can regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the course of the adventure, but your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level can never rise above your initial score.</p>
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- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="sskills">
- <meta>
- <title>Survival Skills</title>
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- <data>
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- <p>Ever since the day you returned to the surface, you have endeavoured to develop your skills and natural instincts fully in order to best defend yourself and your colony.</p>
- <p>Listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> are your five basic Survival Skills:</p>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="driving">
- <meta><title>Driving</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Your ability to control powered vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles and trucks.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="shooting">
- <meta><title>Shooting</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Your familiarity and experience in the use of missile weapons, such as pistols, machine pistols, shotguns and rifles.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="fldcraft">
- <meta><title>Field craft</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Your knowledge and experience of all aspects of outdoor survival.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="stealth">
- <meta><title>Stealth</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Your physical fitness, the speed of your reflexes and your dexterity.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="perceptn">
- <meta><title>Perception</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Your intelligence, your ability to evaluate information, your education and your mental alertness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <p>Your ability in each of these five individual skills is measured in skill points. You begin with 3 points per skill. Before starting the adventure, you may allocate an additional 4 skill points to your list of five Survival Skills. These 4 extra points can be used to improve one or more of your five skills. During your adventure, all five skills will be severely tested, therefore the higher the individual skill level, the better your chances of survival. You may allocate your 4 additional points entirely how you like.</p>
- <p>When you have decided where to allocate your 4 additional skill points, make a note of the totals in the Survival Skills section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(If this is your first Freeway Warrior adventure, your total number of skill points should be 19: five skills x 3 points each = 15, plus 4 additional skill points = 19 points.)</p>
- <p>If you complete successfully the mission set in Book 2 of the Freeway Warrior series, you may add an additional 4 points to your Survival Skills in Book 3. These additional points, together with any equipment and provisions that you possess at the end of Book 2, may then be used in the next Freeway Warrior adventure, which is called The Omega Zone.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
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- <data>
- <p>Apart from your clothing, a number of useful items form your basic equipment. This comprises a Backpack, and a belt on which hangs your Ammo Pouch, Medi-kit, Water Canteen and Hunting Knife. In addition to these items, you possess a <a idref="map">Map of Western Texas</a>, which you carry tucked inside your leather jacket.</p>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="backpack">
- <meta><title>Backpack</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Up to ten separate items may be stored and carried in your Backpack at any time. However, if more than three items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 1 point. If more than six items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 2 points; and if you carry a full Backpack (containing ten items) your Stealth level will be reduced by 3 points.</p>
- <p>In order to equip yourself for the task ahead, you may choose up to four items from the following list:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">SOLAR TORCH</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE (High Explosive) GRENADE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">BINOCULARS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">COMPASS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">CB RADIO</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">ROPE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">THREE MEALS</typ> (each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">FLEXIBLE SAW</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">SIGNAL FLARE</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the items you have chosen on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have picked four items, adjust your current Stealth level accordingly.</p>
- <p>Opportunities may arise during your adventure for you to pick up useful items. These items will appear in the text in bold print and, unless you are instructed otherwise, they can be stored and carried in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>You will need to eat regularly. If you do not possess any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="ammpouch">
- <meta><title>Ammo Pouch</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Your Ammo Pouch is where you store any spare ammunition for firearms. It can hold a maximum of the following:</p>
- <p>
- 40 rounds of 9mm calibre Pistol/Machine Pistol ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 20 rounds of 7.62mm calibre Rifle ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 10 rounds of 12-gauge calibre Shotgun ammunition
- </p>
- <p>When carrying mixed calibres of ammunition, use this equation to check how much space you have left in your Ammo Pouch:</p>
- <p>4 x 9mm rounds = 2 x 7.62 rounds = 1 x 12 gauge round</p>
- <p>Additional ammunition can be carried in your Backpack. Ammunition occupies one space for each quantity that is equal to (or less than) the maximum that can be carried in one Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="medikit">
- <meta><title>Medi-kit</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>A well-stocked Medi-kit can make all the difference to your chances of survival should you suffer injury in the field or as a result of combat. It contains useful first aid supplies, such as dressings, antiseptics, antibiotics, water purification tablets, sulfonamides, pain killers, potassium iodide tablets (to delay absorption of radioactivity) and sutures.</p>
- <p>For convenience, these medical supplies are grouped into units. To find how many units you have in your Medi-kit, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals 10) and add 2. Your total score equals the number of units with which you begin your adventure. To keep a record of them, circle the appropriate number of unit symbols in the Medi-kit section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The maximum number of units you can carry in your Medi-kit is twelve.</p>
- <p>You may use your Medi-kit units to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; each unit used in this way restores 3 points. Units cannot be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in lieu of a Meal or Water when instructed to eat or drink.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="canteen">
- <meta><title>Water Canteen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Water is essential to life, and your life will depend on having a sufficient, uncontaminated supply. You will need to drink regularly during your adventure. One drink is equivalent to half a pint and your canteen holds exactly two pints of water: enough for one day's needs. When instructed to drink, be sure to tick off one box in the Water section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you do not have any Water when instructed to drink, you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="weapons">
- <meta>
- <title>Weapons</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
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- <data>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="close">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>These weapons aid you in hand-to-hand fighting. You begin your adventure armed with a Hunting Knife which, when used in close combat, adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Note this Hunting Knife in the Close Combat Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you find a close combat weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it. Close combat weapons will appear in the text with a close combat skill number, for example, Machete (3). This number indicates how many points this weapon will add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in a hand-to-hand fight.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of close combat weapons you may carry is <em>two</em>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="missile">
- <meta><title>Missile Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>There are four types of missile weapon:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>PISTOL</li>
- <li>MACHINE PISTOL</li>
- <li>SHOTGUN</li>
- <li>RIFLE</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Unless you are continuing to use weapons from a previous Freeway Warrior book, you begin your adventure armed with only one of these weapons. Make your choice and then record the weapon you have chosen, together with its calibre and rate of fire details, in the Missile Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>In order to be able to use a missile weapon, you must have sufficient ammunition of the correct calibre. The following list shows the calibre of each weapon, the amount that is used every time the weapon is fired, and the number of rounds that you possess at the start of your adventure:</p>
-
- <table>
- <tr>
- <th></th>
- <th>Calibre</th>
- <th>Rate of Fire</th>
- <th>Initial No. of Rounds</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>PISTOL</td>
- <td>9mm</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>8</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>MACHINE PISTOL</td>
- <td>9mm</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>30</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>SHOTGUN</td>
- <td>12-gauge</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>RIFLE</td>
- <td>7.62mm</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
-
- <p>The initial number of rounds should be noted in the Ammo Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Missile weapons cannot be used if you run out of ammunition or possess rounds of the wrong calibre. However, the opportunity may arise for you to replenish your supply of ammunition and/or discover a weapon of the correct calibre.</p>
- <p>You may carry a maximum of three missile weapons. However, for every missile weapon that you carry (excluding your initial choice), you must reduce your Stealth level by 1 point.</p>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Close Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="weapons" />
- <link class="next" idref="numbered" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions when you will have to fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level will both be given in the text. Your aim in close combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero or below while losing as few of your own <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible.</p>
- <p>At the start of a close combat, enter both your own and your enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Close Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for close combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through the use of close combat weapons to your current <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example<br />Cal Phoenix (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 17) is attacked by a Renegade Clansman (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 18). He is not given the opportunity to evade close combat, but must stand and fight his adversary. Cal Phoenix is armed with a Hunting Knife, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total CLOSE COMBAT SKILL of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Renegade Clansman's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.plus/>1 (19 <ch.minus/> 18 = <ch.plus/>1). He notes this <ch.plus/>1 on his <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>After working out your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the number that you have picked (the random numbers appear down the side of the chart). You now have the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Cal Phoenix and his enemy in this round of close combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; CP represents points lost by Cal Phoenix.)</p>
- <p>Example<br />The Combat Ratio between Cal Phoenix and the Renegade Clansman has been established as <ch.plus/>1. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 4, then the result of the first round of close combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Cal Phoenix loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Renegade Clansman loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, start the next round of close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from stage 3.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This procedure continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Cal Phoenix are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead. If Cal Phoenix is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Cal Phoenix proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points possibly reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">Summary of the Close Combat Rules</a> appears on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade close combat. If you have already engaged in a round of close combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored; only Cal Phoenix may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but that is the risk of running away! You may evade combat only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Throughout a long and moonless night, the colony loads up and manhandles into line the vehicles that are to transport you west to Tucson. Preparations for the breakout did not begin until an hour after sundown, for Amex Gold has men positioned on nearby Signal Mountain with orders to observe and report all activity within Big Spring. These lookouts are especially vigilant; their leader is expecting the colony to attempt an escape and they know that their lives will be forfeit should they fail to predict exactly when it will occur.</p>
- <p>In near-blackness you service and refuel your roadster by sense of touch alone, while all around you the chill night air is alive with movement and whispering as your fellow colonists furtively attend to their allotted tasks. Although you cannot see them you know exactly the positions of the five other road vehicles that comprise the convoy. At the head of the line, twenty paces back from the west freeway gate, is the armoured tow truck that will lead the breakout. The driver is 'Pecos' Pete Tyler, and beside him you can picture his brother Rex riding shotgun. In the open back of their truck is Rickenbacker, a former flying circus stunt pilot, who has chosen to ride out in the open so that he can look after 'Icarus'<ch.emdash/>his motorized hang glider<ch.emdash/>which by now he will have carefully dismantled and strapped aboard. Next in line are two Amcorp Landcruisers<ch.emdash/>solar-assisted roadbuses that carry the Big Spring colonists, and behind them is positioned the gasolene tanker with Uncle Jonas at the wheel. The DC1 school bus is next and your roadster last, the back marker until the convoy is clear of Big Spring.</p>
- <p>Once your preparations are complete you leave your vehicle and feel your way along the side of the school bus towards the boarding door. Cutter is sitting in the driver's seat, staring thoughtfully at the night sky, his face lit by the faint green glow of the instrument panel.</p>
- <p>'Cal, you'd better get back and watch out for Pecos Pete's signal,' he says, on seeing you at his side. 'We're outta here in fifteen minutes.'</p>
- <p>'I've decided I'm not goin' to Tucson with the convoy,' you reply, your voice steady and resolute. 'I'm not gonna abandon Kate. I'm the only hope she's got of cuttin' loose o' that psychopath Mad Dog Michigan, and I'm not gonna betray that hope. He's sure to have taken her with him to San Angelo, and I've thought out a plan to spring her from there while he's busy fixin' a deal with the Angelinos gang.</p>
- <p>'I understand how you feel, Cal,' says Cutter, sympathetically, 'but you've a duty to the rest o' the colony that you can't just ignore. You're the convoy scout, the convoy's eyes and ears. We're gonna need you to get us across the mountains in one piece.'</p>
- <p>'Rickenbacker in his micro-glider can scout for the convoy. With a CB on board he could stay in radio contact with Pop and be your eyes in the sky. He'd make the best scout the convoy could ask for,' you reply, convincingly.</p>
- <p>Cutter stares at you in silence then, begrudgingly, he nods in agreement. 'OK, Cal. As soon as we're safely away from here I'll talk to the others and get them to listen to your plan. But first we've gotta concern ourselves with gettin' out o' here in one piece<ch.emdash/>agreed?'</p>
- <p>'Agreed,' you reply, relieved that at last you have told someone your decision to rescue Kate.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the discordant blare of an auto horn splits the silence: it is Pecos Pete's signal to the other drivers to start their engines. Quickly you return to your roadster and, as you fire up its engine, you see the twin tail lights of the school bus shrinking in the dark as it heads towards the now-open freeway gate. The breakout has begun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to push open the door when you notice a thin, almost transparent cord wrapped around the inside handle. It rises to a shelf above the door, where it is attached to a large glass storage jar. Carefully you ease open the door a few inches, take hold of the cord between your fingers and snap it before entering the kitchen. Having deactivated this primitive trap, you make your way silently towards the bar at the front of the building.</p>
- <p>As you enter, you search the darkened interior for some sign of Haskell, but you cannot see where he is. Rather than risk his mistaking you for a clansman, you whisper his name as you advance cautiously into the bar.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If the total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If the total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansmen dive aside as you crash through their barrier and accelerate across the open ground towards the safety of the southern ruins. But they recover quickly and soon the staccato hammering of their assault rifles is echoing in your wake. Bullets slam into the rear of the jeep and whistle past your head as you steer the vehicle towards the remains of a building with an open, unobstructed entrance. Bullets continue to ricochet off the bodywork until you skid to a halt inside the derelict building, where you abandon the jeep hurriedly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect4-1-foot" idref="sect4-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crack of your pistol shot is echoed by the clansman's shocked scream.<a id="sect4-1" idref="sect4-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He drops the knife and clutches his hands to his wound before crashing lifelessly to the floor. With fear in their eyes, the other two reach for their pistols as they back away hastily from the guard's bloodstained body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow tears open the sniper's chest and flings him to the floor like a torn puppet. With a gurgling groan he rolls over on to his back and dies, his rifle still clutched in his hands. (If you wish to keep this weapon, you discover that it contains eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>You walk to the window and shout an 'all clear' to the others in the street below before you turn to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having chosen to stop here and rest, you pull off the highway and search among the ruins for a safe shelter. You are looking for a place where you will be able to hide the roadster and observe the road; if the Angelinos appear during the night, you will need as much forewarning of their arrival as possible in order to make a successful getaway.</p>
- <p>Only one place meets your needs: a warehouse and factory complex near the middle of the town. The cracked and tarnished facia above its entrance tells you that this was once the Eldorado Woolen Mills. You park the roadster in a covered lot at the rear, then settle yourselves on the first floor in a workshop that has an unobstructed view of the highway. You must now eat a Meal (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Kate curls up beside you and falls asleep in your arms, while you, heavy with fatigue, force yourself to stay awake and watch the highway. Your vigilance pays off when, two hours later, you see a line of lights in the double doors leading to the kitchen and you head straight for them.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If the number you have picked is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If the number is 3-9, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This corridor services a number of offices and conference rooms before it ends at a wide staircase leading downwards. You descend three floors and discover the remains of a large private restaurant which, along with the kitchen, occupies most of the sub-basement level. A small 'fire exit' sign hangs over the double doors leading to the kitchen and you head straight for them.</p>
- <p>As you are crossing the restaurant floor, your rumbling stomach reminds you that you have yet to eat anything today. Then the thought occurs to you that there could still be some canned food in the kitchen, and you decide to search it before you leave the building.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate grips your hand tightly as you descend with a group of the cave people into the depths of the Sonora caverns. An astounding speleological feast greets your eyes as you follow them through a series of monumental caves that have been eroded over millions of years by subterranean rivers and streams. The group stops frequently at specially prepared defensive hides, which are virtually impossible to see. One or two of their number, armed with rocks, spears and slings, occupy each of these positions. At once you see that it is their intention to lure the clansmen into the caverns and fight them here, where, despite their lack of firearms, the odds are in their favour.</p>
- <p>Soon the sound of gunfire begins to penetrate the caverns, announcing the arrival of the clansmen. You stop with Kate and crouch behind a clump of stalagmites, while the three remaining cave people arm themselves with rocks and take up a position on a ledge directly above a narrow defile. For several minutes the sound of gunfire and the screams of the wounded fill the caves with clamouring echoes. Then two of the Angelinos appear at the entrance to the defile and come running towards you. The cave people hurl their rocks and bring an Angelino crashing to the ground with a broken skull, but his partner avenges his death by sweeping them from the ledge with one long burst of automatic fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you do not have one, or have exhausted your ammunition, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your left is the open doorway of an empty locker room and you slip inside quickly to avoid being seen by the two guards. Having already removed the grenade from your pack, you set its variable timer to detonate four seconds after the pin is pulled. A quick glance into the corridor lets you know the guards' position; you pull the pin and lob the grenade at them.</p>
- <p>In the confines of the corridor the grenade explodes with devastating effect. Even though you are in an adjacent room, shielded from the direct blast, the concussion makes your ears ring and leaves you gasping for breath. You grab a towel that is hanging behind the door and use it to cover your mouth as you run down the smoke-filled corridor. The clansmen lie dead at the foot of the stairs. As you leap over their bodies and ascend the steps, you see the door to the observation block begin to open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect10-1-foot" idref="sect10-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You chamber a round and take aim at the first clansman as he scurries between the rocks that litter the edge of the service area. He is less than thirty yards away when you squeeze off your first shot and bring him crashing to the ground.<a id="sect10-1" idref="sect10-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His partner hesitates, then abandons his stealthy approach and comes running towards you, screaming hysterically, his machine pistol blazing at his hip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you have sufficient ammunition and wish to fire again, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not have sufficient ammunition to fire a second time, or choose not to fire, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate rushes over to the dead man's bike and salvages a machine pistol, while you return to the car and finish the repair. The sight of their leader dead leaves the remaining clansmen in a state of confusion, which lasts just long enough for you to complete your wheel change and jump back into the car with Kate.</p>
- <p>As you reach the top of the bank and speed away towards the distant highway, you glance over your shoulder to see the Angelino scouts cradling their leader's body on the bank of the South Concho River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three long, hot, tedious hours you sit watching the two clansmen through your binoculars (during which time you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You see them finish their meal and then attend to the repair of one of their motorcycle engines. You are beginning to fear that they have no intention of ever leaving the bridge, when another biker appears atop a ridge of high ground on the far side of the river. He approaches them and stops briefly to talk. Then the two clansmen mount their machines and follow him back across the bridge, accelerating away to the south.</p>
- <p>Once you are sure that it is safe to continue, you start your engine and drive towards the bridge. As you approach the entrance you see the remains of the clansmen's campfire, its ashes still smouldering.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to stop and search the area around the campfire, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you decide to cross the bridge and press on towards San Angelo, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait until Haskell has disappeared into an alley that runs alongside the bar, then you approach the front door cautiously and peek inside. Remnants of food lie scattered across the tables and, judging by the amount of fresh garbage strewn on the floor, a large group of clansmen were here not so long ago.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you hear the sound of breaking glass. It comes from the rear of the building and you sense that Haskell must have something to do with it. Fearing that he is involved in a fight, you enter the bar and call out his name.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If the total score is 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If the total score is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hail of automatic rifle fire tears into the sides and rear of the jeep as you crash your way through the barrier and accelerate across the open ground. You are twenty yards from the safety of the southern ruins when two bullets penetrate the jeep's gasolene tank.</p>
- <p>The steel-jacketed rounds cause a spark that ignites the fuel, and, in one chilling instant, the vehicle is transformed into a blazing fireball. A kaleidoscope of shapes assails your eyes as the jeep somersaults end-over-end, before you are engulfed by a wave of searing white heat that kills you instantly.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life come to an end here in San Angelo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From a position high among the tiers, you look down at the rows of empty seats that encircle the dusty arena and observe the preparations taking place around the perimeter track. This stadium once hosted international sporting events, many of which were televised and beamed live around the world. Now it plays host to a sporting event of a very different kind. The Angelinos have challenged the Lions to put forward four of their best riders for a twenty-lap motorcycle race around the arena. The track itself reminds you of an old film you saw when you were a child, a film about the wild chariot races that took place in Ancient Rome. Today's event is meant to be a friendly challenge to celebrate the signing of their alliance, but with clan honour at stake the race will undoubtedly be fought out in deadly earnest.</p>
- <p>Facing you, on the far side of the stadium, is the glass-fronted observation block that was once used by television and radio commentators. Your curiosity is aroused by it when you notice that the door to the block is heavily guarded. Fixedly you stare at its full-length windows and count five occupants: four clansmen and one blonde-haired girl. You cannot see her face clearly, but you know that she is Kate Norton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bullets whine as they ricochet off the side of the Chevrolet and pass within inches of your body. You reach cover and Kate tosses her machine pistol to you over the side of the roadster. You catch it near the ground, but before you can draw back the firing bolt and return fire, you spot the outline of a man standing away to your right. He is armed with a pistol and he has you dead in his sights.</p>
- <p>'Do like the man said, buddy, or take your last breath,' he says, and reluctantly you let the G-12 slip to the ground.</p>
- <p>'Ain't no good you hidin' in there, honey,' says the voice from the pay booth. There is a pause, then slowly Kate climbs out of the car and stands beside you.</p>
- <p>The man with the pistol is tall and muscular and dressed in green army fatigues. His blond hair is cropped close to his head and his eyes are hidden behind a pair of dark sunglasses. With his pistol still aimed at your heart, he walks slowly towards you, stopping at the entrance to the pay booth. Two more men in uniform emerge from the doorway<ch.emdash/>the rifleman and one other, armed with a sawn-off shotgun.</p>
- <p>'They don't look like clan punks, Sarge,' says the rifleman.</p>
- <p>'We're not,' interrupts Kate. 'We're running from the clans.'</p>
- <p>Bemused, the blond-haired man scratches his chin and turns to say something quietly to his two companions. It is then that you notice the faded sergeant stripes and the circular globe-of-the-world emblem that adorn his sleeve. Instantly you recognize the latter: it is the emblem of the World Defence League. At length, he turns to face you once more and says, in a friendlier tone, 'I think you two had better tell us your story.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mad Dog Michigan is poised to shoot you dead when suddenly a loud cheer fills the stadium. Ricky Riot, the top Angelinos rider, has just crossed the line and won the race, and it is this victory cry that distracts Mad Dog's aim at the vital second. His shot goes awry, hitting the lifeless body of Mekong Mike, who is slumped at your feet. He fires again but this time the pistol jams. In desperation he hurls the weapon at your head. You dive to avoid it and it glances off your shoulder: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When you get to your feet your enemy is speaking into a radio handset. In his hand he now holds another pistol and, with a cruel sneer, he raises it and takes deliberate aim at your head. He is about to squeeze the trigger when Kate appears behind him with a wooden stool clutched unsteadily in her hands. With one fell stroke she smashes it down upon his head and leaves him sprawled unconscious on the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect18-1-foot" idref="sect18-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman is no more than ten feet away when you spring up from your hiding place and bring your barrel to bear. Your gunfire catches him in the side and spins him backwards to the slippery floor.<a id="sect18-1" idref="sect18-1-foot" class="footnote" /> For a moment he shudders, then falls still as his last breath escapes from between his blood-flecked lips.</p>
- <p>Kate moves forward to check that he is dead and to search his body. She keeps what she needs: his machine pistol, a quantity of ammunition and his water canteen, and offers the rest of his possessions to you:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- <li>Enough sulfonamides for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li>Flick Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are ready, you retrace your way along the defile and return to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect19-1-foot" idref="sect19-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire catches the fleeing clansman in the neck and lifts him clean out of the saddle.<a id="sect19-1" idref="sect19-1-foot" class="footnote" /> In your rear-view mirror you see him bounce off the highway, roll over, and then disappear from view amongst a tangle of dead sagebrush at the side of the road. His bike continues in a straight line for almost a minute until, with a loud crash, it finally flips end-over-end and bursts into flames.</p>
- <p>Less than a mile along the highway you happen upon a deserted stretch of Freeway 87, running directly across your path. You join it, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms your suspicions: you are approaching the outskirts of Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The convoy is travelling at break-neck speed as it passes through the blazing ruins of Allamore and enters the pass beyond. Sweat trickles down your face as the ominous peak of Slaughter Mountain looms out of the smoke, and you witness the vicious battle taking place on its lower slopes. The bodies of slain Mavericks and Mexicans lie at the side of the freeway, tangled among the smoking remains of motorcycles and trucks once loaded with looted provisions. Small groups of desperate men are waging bitter hand-to-hand battles among this carnage, whilst others blaze away with automatic weapons, hiding in their foxholes dug by hand from the barren, stony soil.</p>
- <p>The arrival of the convoy brings a lull in the fighting. Some turn their guns on you and a hail of bullets begins to rake either side of the colony vehicles. The tow truck approaches a bend in the freeway, and, as it turns, you see a Maverick kneeling at the side of the road with a missile launcher perched on his shoulder. He tracks the truck, but a burst of Mexican fire makes him dive for cover. When he appears again he no longer has the truck in his sights: he has you in his sights!</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A Maverick kneeling at the side of the road with a missile launcher perched on his shoulder.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="621" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="621" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The only way you can hope to avoid being hit by the missile is by taking evasive action immediately.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If your total score is 11-15, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If your total score is 16 or more, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman unsheathes his knife and slashes at your throat with a wide sweep of his tattooed arm. You duck beneath this vicious swipe, and before he can catch you with a back-handed slice; you drive your fist into his stomach. He doubles over and staggers back, but he recovers quickly and springs forward with unexpected speed, his vice-like fingers scrabbling to get a grip on your neck.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Harley-D</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The enemy has been winded by your punch, therefore you may add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Concealed beneath the piles of old documents, you discover a padlocked hatch. Three well-placed kicks remove the lock and, when you lift the hinged trapdoor, you find a large, hermetically sealed storage bin, which is filled with cigarettes, packed neatly in cartons of 200. Although you have no personal need for these cigarettes, you know that there are those who would willingly trade food or fuel for them.</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep a <typ class="item">Carton of Cigarettes</typ>, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. One carton counts as one Backpack item.</p>
- <p>Having satisfied yourself that there is little else of worth here, you leave the cabin and return to your roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect23-1-foot" idref="sect23-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deadly bullets miss you by inches and you dive to the floor in case the unseen gunman decides to fire again. Then you hear running footsteps approaching, and as they get louder, you raise your weapon and fire at the door.<a id="sect23-1" idref="sect23-1-foot" class="footnote" /> There is a scream from inside the kitchen, and you hear a body fall heavily to the tiled floor amid a crash of broken glass and crockery.</p>
- <p>Just inside the door you discover the body of a clansman. Judging from the long-horned skull that you find painted on the back of his leather vest, you have just laid to rest your first Angelino. On the floor nearby you find his weapons and equipment: a Machine Pistol (containing eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition) and a Backpack, which holds the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ></li>
- <li>HE Grenade</li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Small Blanket</typ></li>
- <li>Enough bandages, sulfonamides, and antiseptics for three Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>In addition to these items, a search of the kitchen also reveals the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Meat Cleaver (3)</li>
- <li>Bread Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Enough canned food for five Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of the items in either list, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the kitchen, you hide the clansman's body in an empty refrigerator. Then you hurry through the fire escape door and make your way up a flight of rusty steps that leads to a service alley at the rear of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track leads to a cluster of log cabins and adobe huts that look as if they have only recently been constructed. Nearby, erected around the entrance to a cave, you see a palisade and, standing at the gate in this wall of logs, you notice a large group of men, women and children. They are dressed in animal skins, and their faces and hair are dyed with bright colours. At your approach they scurry inside the gate and take cover behind their log wall.</p>
- <p>The instant you bring your roadster to a halt you smell the strong, oily aroma of gasolene. With trepidation you inspect the bullet-riddled trunk and discover, to your horror, that gasolene is gushing from the spare fuel containers. They are so badly holed that an attempt at repairing them would be futile. The roar of your pursuer's motorcycle is growing louder, and Kate urges you to abandon the car and take cover with the others behind the wall of logs. You nod your agreement and run towards the gate but as you get nearer, a man steps forward to block your access. He is holding a loaded bow. A flint-tipped arrow is drawn taught to his lips and he is pointing it at your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A man steps forward to block your access. He is holding a loaded bow.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="623" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="623" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If the number is 4-6, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If the number is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The end of the heavy motorcycle drive chain hits the back of your head and raises an angry weal across your right shoulder: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Stunned by the force of the blow, you keel over and land face-down in the river. For a few seconds, you remain there, unmoving, until the taste of the bitter, putrid water brings you to your senses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect26-1-foot" idref="sect26-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the trigger and immediately duck your head behind the roadster's reinforced steel door.<a id="sect26-1" idref="sect26-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The speed of your reflexes saves you from being hit by the Maverick's gunfire as, in the throes of death, he empties his pistol into the side of your car.</p>
- <p>With the screams of the other clansmen ringing in your ears, you force yourself to concentrate on restarting your roadster. This time, despite an almost overwhelming urge to stamp the pedal straight through the floor, you take your foot off the gas as you turn the ignition switch. The move works<ch.emdash/>the engine roars back to life<ch.emdash/>and within seconds you are accelerating away from the Mavericks with your eyes glued firmly on the convoy's tail lights, glowing red in the distance. A few poorly aimed bullets chase your escape but you soon catch up with the school bus and pass beyond range of the clansmen's guns.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect27-1-foot" idref="sect27-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull back and release the slide of your pistol, feeding a bullet into the breach, then take careful aim at the first clansman as he scurries between the rocks that litter the edge of the service area. He is less than twenty yards away when you squeeze off your first shot and bring him crashing to the ground.<a id="sect27-1" idref="sect27-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His partner hesitates, then abandons his stealthy approach and comes running towards you, screaming hysterically, his machine pistol blazing at his hip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you have sufficient ammunition and wish to fire again, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not have sufficient ammunition to fire a second time, or choose not to fire, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate manages to pull the snapping dog from your arm and dispatch it swiftly with a pistol shot to the head.</p>
- <p>Its fangs have penetrated the leather sleeve of your jacket and gouged your arm (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but you are relieved to see that there are no signs that the animal was rabid.</p>
- <p>Quickly you regain full control of the roadster and steer it towards the Christoval bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake shortly after dawn, your neck stiff and aching after an uncomfortable night's sleep. Little light is filtering from the surface of this underground lot, but there is sufficient for you to be able to take stock of your surroundings and make sure that you are alone. After checking your equipment, you leave your roadster and ascend to the surface, where you make a mental note of this location before beginning your trek towards the downtown stronghold of the Angelinos.</p>
- <p>The heat is bearable at this early hour and you encounter no sign of the city's occupants as stealthily you make your way through the shattered streets. An hour later you reach the southern section of their perimeter wall and stop to observe those who are guarding it. They look like a motley group of criminals armed with an assortment of weapons and equipment, much of which appears rusty and incapable of functioning. All that identifies them as Angelinos is the symbol they wear on their jackets and T-shirts: the skull of a long-horned steer.</p>
- <p>After having studied the defences and watched the guards for the better part of an hour, you decide that the best place to gain entry to the stronghold is through an office block that interrupts the perimeter wall. The wooden planks that have been used to seal it are warped and split, and gaining entry to the building should not prove too difficult. Patiently you wait for the right moment before you break cover and sprint across the rubble-strewn street towards the main entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You radio back to the convoy that you have sighted something suspicious in the hills to the south. You bring your roadster to a halt, and, as the convoy draws closer, Cutter disembarks and comes running forward to find out more. You point out the place on the ridge where you saw the reflections, and he scans the area with his powerful binoculars.</p>
- <p>'Whatever was up there has gone now, Cal,' he says. 'If it was clan scouts you saw then we'd better keep on movin' before they rustle up enough of their kin to bushwhack us.'</p>
- <p>You keep a watchful eye on the ridge as you lead the convoy along this section of the freeway. Anxiously you expect an ambush to take place at any time, but, despite your fears, an attack does not materialize. At length, the stores and houses of Van Horn appear on the road ahead. The town looks deserted but you decide to take no chances. You bring the convoy to a halt within a mile of the town limits and, accompanied by Sergeant Haskell, you leave your roadster and enter on foot to check that the place is safe for the convoy to pass through.</p>
- <p>The tumbledown buildings are deathly quiet as you walk along the main street of Van Horn, and you notice nothing out of the ordinary until you reach a bar near the centre of the town. A motorcycle is parked beside the entrance, its fuel tank emblazoned with the ace of spades emblem of the Mavericks clan. You decide to search the bar and, if possible, try to capture and question the bike's owner. Haskell suggests that it would be a good idea if one of you were to enter by the rear door and you nod your agreement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to enter the bar from the rear, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you choose to enter the bar through the front door, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An agonizing pain cuts into your chest and the warm taste of blood fills your mouth. Then the pain gives way to a terrifying numbness that robs you of all sensation. In a moment you see the sniper working another round into the chamber of his rifle. Then he points the muzzle at your head and darkness engulfs you.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here in Brogado.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stamp on the brake pedal and spin the wheel to the right, causing your car to twist about and slide sideways along the highway. The sudden shriek of your tyres and the sight of your roadster hurtling towards him broadside on makes the clansman panic. He empties his magazine yet not one of the armour-piercing loads hits your roadster. Horrified, he fumbles to reload his weapon, but before he can do so he is hit by the rear of your car and sent tumbling over the side of the bridge.</p>
- <p>His confederate has managed to start his bike and is racing across to the other side. You slam the gear shift into low and give chase, determined to prevent him from warning Mad Dog Michigan that you are coming to pay him a visit. Beyond the bridge you chase the biker up a steep incline to the top of a ridge and, as you crest the top, you see him gunning his machine towards Freeway 87, less than half a mile away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you wish to draw a weapon and fire at the biker while you are pursuing him, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you decide to try to ram him off the road, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you stop the car and peer through your binoculars at the little town of Christoval.</p>
- <p>'Can y'see what's kickin' up that dust?' asks Kate.</p>
- <p>'Looks like a pack of wild coyote fighting among themselves,' you reply, as you focus on the action taking place at the centre of the town.</p>
- <p>'Hey, Cal,' she replies, tugging at your sleeve; 'that ain't the dust I'm talkin' about.'</p>
- <p>Lowering your lenses, you turn to see her pointing back along the highway at another dust cloud, which is fast approaching. You do not need binoculars to be able to see that it is being kicked up by a pack of bikers, who have come racing out of San Angelo.</p>
- <p>'I think it's time we were movin' on,' says Kate, uneasily.</p>
- <p>'I think you're right,' you reply, as hurriedly you reach for the ignition switch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your speed and sure-footedness save you from the merciless flames. Your jacket is blackened with soot and the legs of your jeans are smouldering, but you escape from the blazing library without sustaining any injury.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110"><link-text>Turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect35-1-foot" idref="sect35-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bellowing like an angry bull, you burst through the kitchen doors with your gun held before you, ready to fire. To your left you sense a movement and you turn to face it. A clansman is crouching in front of a food locker, trying to prise the door open with the edge of a meat cleaver. When he sees you his eyes open wide with shock.</p>
- <p>'I'd drop it!' you shout.</p>
- <p>'I'll drop you!' he screams in reply, and draws the cleaver back in preparation to throw it at your chest.</p>
- <p>You shoot once and hit the clansman in the head, the force of your gunfire spinning his body across the kitchen floor and killing him instantly.<a id="sect35-1" idref="sect35-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Slowly you lower your smoking barrel and walk forward to search the body of your would-be attacker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a moment the clansman shudders at your feet as his last breath escapes from between his blood-flecked lips. Then his eyes glaze over and he succumbs to the endless sleep of death. Kate moves forward to check that he is no longer a threat and to search his body. She keeps what she needs: his machine pistol, a quantity of ammunition, and his water canteen, and offers the rest of his possessions to you:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- <li>Enough sulfonamides for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li>Flick Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are ready, you retrace your way along the defile and return to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are almost relieved to see that the cause of your irritation is a small, brown, spindly legged spider. Casually you raise your right hand to slap it from your arm, but just as you bring your hand down, Kate's eyes widen with fear. 'No!' she says. 'It's a Fiddleback!'</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If the number you have picked is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If it is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reaching over your head, you grasp the rounded handle of your shotgun and unsheathe it from its storage place behind your seat. It is loaded, and a glance at the breach tells you that the safety catch is set to fire. The moment the clansman sees you resting the twelve-gauge barrel on the door, he veers across to the left lane of the highway as quickly as he can. You smile when you realize the purpose of this manoeuvre: he is trying to increase his chances of survival by making it as difficult as he can for you to shoot at him with your right hand.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving and Shooting skill scores. Now decide how many rounds you wish to fire at the clansman (minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds), and add the number of rounds to your skills total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total score is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gully approaches with frightening speed. Horrified, you watch as the front of your roadster nosedives into the hollow and pitches the car end-over-end. There is darkness, then there is a searing flash of white light that totally engulfs your vision as the fuel tank ruptures and explodes.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at the foot of Slaughter Mountain.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect40-1-foot" idref="sect40-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>On a count of three you step out into the corridor, raise your pistol, and fix your sights on the guard who is standing to the left of the stairs. You fire a body shot and see him twist backwards, clutching his chest.<a id="sect40-1" idref="sect40-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Then you swing across to his partner, knowing only too well that you must make your second shot count just as effectively. But his reactions prove razor-sharp, and when you do get him in your sights you are shocked to find that you are staring at the muzzle of a machine pistol.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score, and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If your total score is 18 or less, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If your total score is 19 or more, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you cannot identify these clansmen, you estimate that their pack is more than 400 riders strong. It would be disastrous for the convoy to run head-on into a group of such size, and you hurry back to the colony as quickly as you can to break the bad news.</p>
- <p>With a pack of bikers approaching from the north, a large Mexican clan crossing the border to the south and the threat of a Maverick ambush to the west, the prospects of reaching El Paso unscathed now look decidedly unpromising. With no time to discuss the situation at length, the convoy reverts to the original plan: to stay on Interstate 10 and approach El Paso from the west. It is the shortest, most direct route, even though there is a very real chance of falling prey to a Maverick ambush.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few moments you are blinded by a deluge of stones and stinking water as you drive through the aftermath of the explosion. Then your vision and your windshield clear and you see the opposite bank. Another grenade explodes behind you but the main force of the blast is diverted and you escape unscathed.</p>
- <p>As you reach the top of the bank and speed away towards the distant highway, you glance over your shoulder to see the clansmen drawn up in a line along the bank of the South Concho River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Repeatedly you pump the gas pedal and work the ignition, but the engine refuses to start. Then a bullet smacks into the passenger door and another ricochets loudly off the hardened steel plates that protect the rear of your driving seat, making you duck your head involuntarily. Cursing your luck, you realize suddenly that your frantic efforts to restart the engine have caused it to flood with fuel.</p>
- <p>Running footsteps approach from all sides and angry voices scream abuse in your direction. You grab your weapon and, as you turn to face the moving shadows, you find yourself staring into the steely-blue eyes of a Maverick gunman. A Smith and Wesson model 459 pistol is clasped in his right hand, its nickel-plated barrel pointing straight at your face. As the Maverick begins to squeeze his trigger, you raise your gun and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If your total score is 9-12, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If your total score is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate discovers that you are carrying an anti-toxin in your Medi-kit that will neutralize the Fiddleback's bite. She breaks open the ampoule and forces the bitter liquid into your mouth, washing it down with a few drops of water from your canteen (remember to erase this Medi-kit unit from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>It is slow to work, but gradually you recover as the anti-toxin breaks down the poison circulating in your bloodstream: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush forward to take Kate in your arms and she yields to your embrace with a kiss that is warm and passionate. 'I thought I'd never see you again, Cal,' she says, her voice trembling and her wide blue eyes brimful with tears of joy. 'They told me you were dead.'</p>
- <p>'Do I look dead?' you reply, half-jokingly.</p>
- <p>'No <ch.ellips/>' she laughs. 'You look just great.'</p>
- <p>Then the sound of running feet alerts you both to approaching danger. Before Kate knocked him out, Mad Dog radioed his men and reported your presence in the observation block. Now a dozen of his toughest clansmen are racing along the corridor in answer to his call.</p>
- <p>'Let's get outta here, Cal!' says Kate, and starts to run towards a fire escape door. You follow her, pausing briefly to snatch the map that the two clan leaders were studying when you burst into the room. (Record this <typ class="item">Mad Dog Map</typ> in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; you carry it tucked inside your jacket and therefore you need not record it as a Backpack item.)</p>
- <p>You race to catch up with Kate as she runs along the gantry that lies on the other side of the door. A burst of machine pistol fire echoes in your wake as the first of Mad Dog's men enter the observation room. Bullets begin to scream past on either side of you. Twenty yards along the iron gantry you come under additional fire from clansmen in the stadium below.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Kate runs along the gantry that lies on the other side of the door.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="630" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="630" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Add your Stealth skill score to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If your total score is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If your total score is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more you take to the road. As you approach the town of Broome, the sun is low in the sky and the burning heat has given way to the cooler temperature of early evening. You are contemplating whether or not to stop at this town when, from around a bend in the freeway ahead, a large group of bike-riding clansmen surges towards you.</p>
- <p>Panic washes over you like an icy shower as you search desperately for somewhere to hide. To your left you see a derelict construction site; to your right, a used car lot. You must act quickly if you are to avoid being seen by the oncoming riders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to steer your car towards the construction site, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to try to hide in the used car lot, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the extinguisher from your pack and tear out the pin that locks its trigger. The heat is beginning to draw wisps of smoke from the sleeves of your leather jacket as hurriedly you take aim at the blazing bookcase. Immediately you squeeze the trigger, a cloud of carbon-dioxide quashes the flames and buys you both the few seconds you need to escape from the burning library.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only heavy construction materials, such as steel girders and concrete panels, remain readily identifiable amongst the dust-covered debris that surrounds the roadster. However, after a brief search of the site, you discover a cache of tools and equipment stored in what was to have been the basement of an office block. After sifting through the cache, you separate the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Welding Torch</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Oxyacetylene</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Bolt Cutters</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Copper Rods</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these Backpack Items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Having satisfied yourself that nothing else of use has been overlooked, you return to your roadster and resume your journey to San Angelo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect49-1-foot" idref="sect49-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sharp report of your rifle is echoed by the clansman's shocked scream as your bullet passes straight through his body and punches a hole in the observation window behind.<a id="sect49-1" idref="sect49-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He drops his knife and clutches his hands to his wound before crashing lifelessly to the floor. With fear in their eyes, the other two reach for their holstered pistols as hurriedly they back away from the guard's bloodstained body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sergeant Haskell is only too willing to speak to his command unit at El Paso. He gives his call sign Palmito Four Zero<ch.emdash/>and as soon as it is confirmed as valid, the El Paso garrison relays news of what is happening in their area. Parts of the city and the military reserve are under siege from HAVOC-led Mexican clansmen. They warn that Fabens is a Mexican base, and that they have barricaded the east freeway approach to that town. In closing, they tell you to contact them again if you make it through Fabens. They do not sound very optimistic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you steer away from the pump house, you look in your mirror to see the biker speeding towards the apex of the roof. He is within a few inches of the top when it suddenly caves in beneath his front wheel and he is flung head-first over the handlebars. With a scream of terror he cartwheels through the air and lands heavily on his back at the edge of the freeway. Winded by the fall, he cannot summon enough strength to roll away as his bike comes crashing down upon him.</p>
- <p>Certain in the knowledge that he could not possibly have survived such a terrible crash, you return to the highway and begin the next stage of your journey to San Angelo. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms your suspicions: you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect52-1-foot" idref="sect52-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the security valve puzzle in <a idref="sect129">Section 129</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The valve clicks open<a id="sect52-1" idref="sect52-1-foot" class="footnote" /> and the tell-tale aroma of gasolene rises from the tank to greet your nostrils. A fuel gauge on the inside edge of the valve shows you that the tank contains 125 gallons of premium unleaded gasolene, more than sufficient for your needs. When the others come to inspect your handiwork they congratulate you unstintingly.</p>
- <p>After filling the tank of your roadster, Sergeant Haskell and his men set about destroying the remainder of the fuel to prevent it from falling into the hands of Mad Dog Michigan's clansmen. Then, with a view of the station ablaze in your driving mirror, you set off west along Freeway 10 to keep your rendezvous with the convoy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Automatically you check to see that your safety catch is set on 'Fire'. Then you take a deep breath as you get ready to make your move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If the weapon you are holding is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You mistime your exit and have to brake heavily to avoid crashing into the freeway barrier. Then, as you struggle to rectify your mistake, a wave of bullets rips into the hood and punches a line of frosted holes across the windshield. One of the slugs gouges a spoonful of flesh from your shoulder before embedding itself in your driving seat: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Spurred on by the sudden pain, you turn your car around and accelerate up the ramp towards the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When eventually you regain consciousness, you feel as though you have broken every bone in your body (lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Fortunately, your bones are still intact and, as your strength returns, you look around for some means of escaping from the shaft.</p>
- <p>Eventually you discover a service hatch in the roof of the elevator. The bolts undo with little resistance and you are able to lower yourself into the elevator compartment. Without power, the doors will not respond to the control buttons, but an emergency crank located in the floor allows you to wind them open by hand.</p>
- <p>Beyond the doors you discover the remains of a large private restaurant which, along with its kitchen, occupies most of the sub-basement level. A small 'fire exit' sign hangs over the double doors leading to the kitchen and you head straight towards them. As you are crossing the restaurant floor, your rumbling stomach reminds you that you have yet to eat anything today. Then the thought occurs to you that there could still be some canned food in the kitchen and you resolve to search it before you leave the building.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is midday when you rejoin Interstate 10 to continue your drive west. The sun is at its height and it feels as if it has pushed the temperature to five degrees above unbearable. To save fuel you try to keep your speed below twenty-five miles per hour, even though the lack of a cooling breeze drives you to distraction.</p>
- <p>You were hoping to be able to scavenge some fuel in Ozona, the first town through which you were due to pass, but when you arrive there you find that it has been totally destroyed. A gently sloping mound of dust and rubble is all that remains of this town. You are forced to continue without respite, and throughout the long, hot drive, the experience of Ozona is repeated many times before you reach Bakersfield in the early evening.</p>
- <p>During your drive you must take three Drinks or lose 9 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are both tired and suffering from mild heat exhaustion, but after having at last reached a town that is still standing, you agree that you must search for fuel and water before it gets dark. As the town is divided in two by the freeway, you decide to split up and search one half each.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to search the north side of Bakersfield, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you choose to search the south side of Bakersfield, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are expecting a rough reception as you drive into town, but your fears are misplaced. The only inhabitants you see as you speed through Sterling City are a pack of feral cats scavenging for food amongst the debris and rotting garbage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After your meal you try to think where you might find some gasolene. Sergeant Haskell and his men<ch.emdash/>Marines Gunter and Knott<ch.emdash/>have searched every square inch of Fort Stockton and know that there is none to be had here.</p>
- <p>'What we need is an old road map,' says Haskell. 'One that would show us where the freeway rest stops and gas stations in this area were located.'</p>
- <p>'I've got a map,' you volunteer, and take from your jacket the map that you snatched from Mad Dog Michigan's table at the stadium in San Angelo.</p>
- <p>'Hey, where did you get this?' says Haskell, as he examines the notes and other markings that have been made on the map of the United States. You tell him its origins and he scrutinizes it at length. Finally, he comments, 'What you've got here is a blueprint of a major HAVOC operation to take over the country. This is one hot piece of property: it shows clan strengths, supply areas, HAVOC strongholds, controlled cities, everything<ch.emdash/>even pockets of WDL resistance on the eastern seaboard. We've gotta get this to El Paso. If there's anything left of WDL headquarters then they must be warned about what is happening in the East.'</p>
- <p>'OK,' you reply, uneasily, 'but what about fuel? My roadster has barely enough to make it another twenty miles. All we need is enough gas to get as far as Kent in time for the rendezvous with the colony. Then we can refuel from the tanker and you can catch a ride with us all the way to Fort Bliss.'</p>
- <p>'There's a rest stop here,' replies Haskell, pointing to the map at a place on Interstate 10 that is half-way between Fort Stockton and a town called Brogado. 'There's no knowing if there's still any gas in its storage tanks but it's our only hope. It looks like a 25-mile-drive<ch.emdash/>do you think you can make it?'</p>
- <p>'I can try,' you reply. 'Like you say, it's our only hope.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heat of the sun hits you like a blazing hammer as you walk back to your roadster. Slowly you ease yourself into the driving seat and pause for a few moments to look at your <a idref="map">map</a>. You estimate that Sterling City is a little over thirty miles away, less than an hour's drive if the highway and your luck hold out.</p>
- <p>You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before you leave this ruined town, a place once known as Garden City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the ground, and avoid being hit in the chest. However, you do not escape from the arrow altogether. It clips your leg and draws an angry red line across your thigh: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>At that moment your pursuer roars up the track, closely followed by the other Angelino scouts, whom you encountered at the bridge. You scream a warning to Kate as a double burst of machine gun fire strafes the palisade. The bullets pass over your back and hit the archer in the chest, dropping him in a tangled heap on the threshold of the gateway.</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and rush forward to help Kate drag his body away, so that the gate can be closed. The other members of the settlement come to your aid, and, once the gate is secure, they point to the cave mouth and urge you to enter. You do not want to abandon your roadster to the Angelinos, but to stay here and attempt to fight would be suicidal. Reluctantly you leave the gate and follow them into the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gunfire stops and you hear the unmistakable sound of the Angelino reloading his machine pistol. Finally, he draws back its firing bolt and starts walking slowly towards your position.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you are holding a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you are holding a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you are holding a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you are holding a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect62-1-foot" idref="sect62-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At such close range, the blast from your shotgun virtually rips the clansman in two.<a id="sect62-1" idref="sect62-1-foot" class="footnote" /> With a gurgling scream he crashes down in the middle of the table before rolling lifelessly to the floor. Hurriedly the other two reach for their pistols as, with fear in their eyes, they back away from the clansman's torn and bloodstained body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Mexican clansman drops lifelessly to the ground, and quickly you step forward to search his body. He was the one crew member who escaped from the truck, and in his pockets you discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Enough antiseptics and sutures for two Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114"><link-text>Turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You perch yourself near the top of the wall and pick out a building on the opposite side of the killing zone: it is the ruins of a fire station. You tell Kate that, when she is running, she should focus all her thoughts and efforts on getting inside that place as quickly as she can. With the clan patrol growing ever nearer, you whisper to Kate to get ready to run.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score and your Stealth skill score. (Note: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If your total is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If your total is 11-16, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If your total is 17 or more, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you draw your gun and slip off the safety catch. The clansman is less than six feet away when he sees you crouching on the dry river bed. His eyes widen and he opens his mouth to scream a warning to his partner, but it is a scream of pain that leaves his lips when you open fire at his chest. (Remember to erase the appropriate number of rounds from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>As the clansman's body topples into the gully, you catch sight of his partner running head-down towards the bridge. He pauses to grab a machine pistol from his motorcycle before diving for cover behind one of the iron bridge supports. Seconds later he reappears and fires a stream of bullets at your position.</p>
- <p>You keep your head low and wait for a lull in the shooting before you break cover and return fire at the clansman.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill score. For every round of fire that you wish to discharge at your opponent, add 1 point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If your total score is now 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to find your way back to the roadster without running into the clansmen and waste no time in making a hasty escape from Eldorado. The enemy are slow to react to your getaway and you are more than ten miles from the town before you see their headlights in your driving mirror. Your speedy escape may have wrong-footed them, but they have caught up quickly. Fearing that you will not be able to out-run them, you leave the highway and hide your roadster behind a rocky ridge that runs parallel to the road. The sound of their engines grows louder as they approach, then fades quickly as the pack roars past, oblivious to your presence. With the immediate threat now gone, you decide to remain where you are and get a few hours sleep before continuing your journey at dawn.</p>
- <p>In the clear light of early morning you can see for miles across the rocky plain that surrounds the highway south of Eldorado. It appears empty, although you remain on the alert every second of your drive to Sonora, the next town marked on your <a idref="map">map</a>, for it is in this direction that the Angelinos were heading when they passed you last night. You are less than a mile from the ruins of Sonora when you are greeted by the welcome sight of Interstate 10, stretching east-to-west across your path. This is the freeway you hope will take you all the way to your rendezvous with the colony at Kent, and then on through the mountains to El Paso.</p>
- <p>You join the freeway and enjoy the feel of a firmer, clearer road surface beneath your wheels as you begin the long drive west. Still you can see no sign of the Angelinos, and Kate voices her hope that they have decided to search Sonora, thinking you may have hidden there last night. You want to agree with her, but suddenly, in the distance, you see something that proves her wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the smoke thins, you see that the grenade has made very little impression on the padlock. The door is still secure and, reluctantly, you abandon your attempt at gaining entry to the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep as still as you can and try not to breathe as a Detroit Lion clansman rummages through a tool box less than four feet from where you are hiding. Fortunately, he finds what he is looking for quickly, returns to the cab, and restarts the engine. Shortly the truck stops once again, but this time you notice that it has drawn up alongside three others in a section of the stadium that has been turned into a pits area. You slip away from the truck before the driver disembarks, and make your way through the crowds of clan mechanics and riders towards an empty section of the arena.</p>
- <p>From a position high among the tiers, you look down at the rows of empty seats that encircle the dusty arena and observe the preparations taking place around the perimeter track. This stadium once hosted international sporting events, many of which were televised and beamed live around the world. Now it plays host to a sporting event of a very different kind. The Angelinos have challenged the Lions to put forward four of their best riders for a twenty-lap motorcycle race around the arena. The track itself reminds you of an old film you saw when you were a child, a film about the wild chariot races that took place in Ancient Rome. Today's event is meant to be a friendly challenge to celebrate the signing of their alliance, but with clan honour at stake the race will undoubtedly be fought out in deadly earnest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>This stadium once hosted international sporting events, now it plays host to a one of a very different kind</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="1024" height="786" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="1024" height="786" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Facing you, on the far side of the stadium, is the glass-fronted observation block that was once used by television and radio commentators. Your curiosity is aroused by it when you notice that the door to this block is heavily guarded. Fixedly you stare at its full-length windows and count five occupants: four clansmen and one blonde-haired girl. You cannot see her face clearly, but you know that the girl you are looking at is Kate Norton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It feels good to be able to drive once more at a speed that is faster than the brisk walking pace to which you have limited yourself over the past fifty fuel-conscious miles. It is also a great relief not to have to walk the thirty miles to Kent, for they are mostly uphill where the freeway traverses the northern slopes of the Davis Mountains. During this part of your journey you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You reach Kent late in the afternoon. At this hour the dusty little town lies in the shadow of the Apache Mountains, and, after spending hours in the relentless glare of the sun, you are thankful for the cooling shade. You have arrived a day ahead of your planned rendezvous with the convoy. The highway and surrounding area show no sign of their having arrived before you, so you decide to try to relax here while you wait for the convoy to show.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Placing your hand under the dashboard, you pull down a handful of cables and isolate two<ch.emdash/>a red one and a black one<ch.emdash/>that are connected to the ignition lock. Quickly you rip these out and touch the exposed copper braids together. There is a bright blue spark and immediately the engine growls into life. After twisting the wires together, you throw the jeep into low gear and take off towards an open section of the perimeter wall. A wheeled screen partially blocks this access point, which is guarded by two clansmen armed with automatic assault rifles.</p>
- <p>You are fifteen yards from the screen when suddenly they realize that you have no intention of stopping.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If your total is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total is 5-7, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If your total is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman's bullets whistle within inches of your head, and tear chunks of mineral from the stalagmites behind which you have dived. Razor-sharp splinters pepper your face and you skin your hands and knees as you land heavily on the jagged, unyielding stone floor: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Moments later the gunfire ceases and you hear the clansman utter an agonized scream. You lift your head in time to see him staggering slowly towards you, his eyes wide with pain as he works his hands frantically behind his back as if he were trying to clutch at something. Then his body stiffens, and, as he falls to the floor, you see what it was that he was trying so desperately to clasp. It is the spear-like tip of a broken stalactite, hurled from the ledge above the defile by a mortally wounded caveman in a last desperate act of defiance.</p>
- <p>Kate moves forward to check that the clansman is dead and to search his body. She keeps what she needs: his machine pistol, a quantity of ammunition and his water canteen, and offers the rest of his possessions to you:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- <li>Enough sulfonamides for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li>Flick Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are ready, you retrace your way along the defile and return to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mighty V-8 engine growls like an angry tiger as a quart of fuel is force-fed into the cylinders. The effect is breathtaking and immediate: the roadster surges forward and you feel as if you are being sucked into your driving seat as it gathers speed rapidly.</p>
- <p>For a few vital seconds the thrill of the acceleration distracts your attention from the panel truck. By mischance the vehicle reaches the bottom of the embankment, glances off a heap of debris, and is sent spinning wildly across the freeway. Your heart leaps into your mouth the moment you see it appear directly in your way.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Haskell continues to question the clansman until finally he replies. A trickle of blood escapes from his lips as, with his dying breath, he says: 'Mad Dog'll make sure you never get through <ch.ellips/>'</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of their engines is getting louder with every passing second and yet you are unable to find a safe way down to the river bed<ch.emdash/>it is far too steep. Desperately, you drive back and forth along the edge of the bank until a volley of shots echoes across the plain and the first of the clansmen's bullets start to whistle past. You have been seen.</p>
- <p>Quickly you abandon your attempt to hide and steer your roadster back on to the freeway in a frantic bid to outrun the pack. The fastest bikes give chase and relentlessly they pursue you until the leader is within twenty yards of your tail. With mounting fear, you glance in your rear-view mirror to see him draw a stubby-barrelled weapon from a tube strapped to the fuel tank. At first you think it is a sawn-off shotgun, but then you recognize the weapon and your heart sinks. It is a D-40<ch.emdash/>a laser sighted grenade launcher. You see the muzzle flash, then moments later there is a deafening explosion. The last sensation you feel is that of being hurled skyward, surrounded by fire and fragments of your roadster.</p>
- <p>The armour-piercing grenade has penetrated the trunk and exploded the spare fuel tanks you were carrying. Tragically, your mission and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A battered Chevrolet pick-up is parked with its hood raised at one of the station's four gasolene pumps. It looks far cleaner than any of the other auto wrecks that lie scattered around the town, and your suspicions are further aroused when you notice a large black pool of oil on the ground beneath the engine compartment. You stop your roadster alongside and step out to investigate it.</p>
- <p>'Hey, this oil's still wet,' you say to Kate, as you dab your index finger in the pool. You are wiping it clean on the leg of your jeans when you hear an unexpected reply. 'Drop your weapons <ch.ellips/> or I'll drop you!'</p>
- <p>It is a man's voice and it is coming from inside a derelict pay booth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to obey the command, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you decide to dive for cover, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You help Kate to her feet and check that her windpipe has not been damaged by the clansman's attack. Her throat is badly bruised, and although you can tell she is in great discomfort, stoically she ignores the pain and suggests that you both get out of here before the dead man's confederates turn up. After stooping to snatch his pistol, she follows closely in your wake as you hurry south towards the ruins of the Sears megamarket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At your killing blow, your adversary drops in a limp and lifeless heap at your feet. Meanwhile, his confederate has run back to his motorcycle and armed himself with a machine pistol. You dive aside just in time to avoid his first burst of fire, and, as you scurry for cover, you retrieve the pistol that you had kicked from his dead partner's hand.</p>
- <p>With a vengeful scream, the clansman comes running at you, firing his machine pistol from the hip. Bullets tear up the ground where you lie, forcing you to stand up and meet this madman head on. Quickly you cock the pistol and take aim at his chest as he comes bounding across the rock-strewn highway, his teeth bared and his eyes blazing with hatred.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If your total is now 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hand the rounds to Kate (remember to erase these from your Ammo Pouch) before you start work on changing the damaged front wheel. Quickly she reloads her pistol as the clan scout leader, believing that you are now out of ammunition, comes riding across the river, howling curses and whirling a heavy motorcycle chain in his left hand. The moment her gun is ready, she takes aim and silences the screaming Angelino with a single shot to the heart. The sight of him crashing into the river stuns the remaining clansmen just long enough for you to complete your wheel change and jump back into the car.</p>
- <p>As you reach the top of the bank and speed away towards the distant highway, you glance over your shoulder to see the scouts retrieving their leader's body from the South Concho River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You discover that the light is seeping into the tunnel from around the edges of a circular metal hatch in the ceiling. Carefully you press your shoulder to the heavy plate and lift it, hoping that it will lead to a way out of the stadium. However, the first thing you see as you push the cover from the hole are scores of running, booted feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If the total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If the total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>News of the radio contact with El Paso is relayed to the rest of the convoy. It is decided that the barricade at Fabens should be scouted before any attempt at a breakthrough is made. As convoy scout, the mission automatically falls to you, but in view of the increased danger you are likely to face, Sergeant Haskell volunteers to accompany you.</p>
- <p>Before you leave you are given the opportunity to replenish your Ammo Pouch with rounds donated by the other colonists:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Five rounds of 7.62mm-calibre ammunition</li>
- <li>Nine rounds of 9mm-calibre ammunition</li>
- <li>Four rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take only one of these calibres. When you have made your choice, remember to amend your Ammo Pouch record accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wheels and tyres squeal as you stand on the brake pedal in a desperate but futile attempt to halt the skidding roadster. Then, with a shuddering jolt, the car slams sideways into the service bay door and comes to an abrupt halt. The reinforced passenger door withstands much of the impact, but the crash leaves you concussed and badly bruised (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Wincing from the pain of your injuries, you try to keep as still as possible as the pack of clansmen, fifty riders strong, roar past the lot. Soon they have gone and, despite your pain, your spirits are raised by the thought that there will now be at least fifty less of Mad Dog's men to face when you reach San Angelo.</p>
- <p>After satisfying yourself that the damage to your roadster is superficial, you cast your eyes around the derelict car lot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to search the lot, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to leave and continue your journey to San Angelo, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press your lenses to your eyes and focus on the distant ridge. Two men are climbing towards the crest of Black Peak, and although you cannot identify them, you can see that they are carrying rifles. They reach the crest, pause briefly to stare at the freeway, then continue across to the far side and disappear from sight.</p>
- <p>You return to your roadster and keep a watchful eye on the ridge as you wait for the convoy to close up the gap. Then, when the vehicles are once again visible in your driving mirror, you continue along the freeway. Anxiously you expect an ambush to take place at any time, but, in spite of your fears, an attack does not materialize.</p>
- <p>At length you see the stores and houses of Van Horn appear on the road ahead. The town looks deserted but you decide to take no chances. You bring the convoy to a halt within a mile of the town limits and, accompanied by Sergeant Haskell, you leave your roadster and enter on foot to check that it is safe for the convoy to pass through.</p>
- <p>The tumbledown buildings are deathly quiet as you walk along the main street of Van Horn, and you notice nothing out of the ordinary until you reach a bar near the centre of the town. A motorcycle is parked beside the entrance, its fuel tank emblazoned with the ace of spades emblem of the Mavericks clan. You decide to search the bar and, if possible, try to capture and question the bike's owner. Haskell suggests that it would be a good idea if one of you were to enter by the rear door and you nod in agreement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to enter the bar from the rear, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you choose to enter the bar through the front door, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sharp, burning pain erupts in your right calf as a bullet, fired from below, hits you and gouges a furrow of flesh from the back of your leg: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth, you hobble to the end of the gantry, to where a covered staircase leads down to the vast area located below the stadium tiers. Kate helps you as best she can by supporting your weight, but you are bleeding heavily and you are soon forced to stop for fear of fainting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you possess at least one Medi-kit unit, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you have no Medi-kit units left, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You force yourself to breathe slowly in an attempt to calm your racing heart. The clansman's footsteps seem unbearably loud as you wait for the right moment to launch your ambush. With sweating palms, you lift your rifle, then, as he comes to a halt, you rise up from your hiding place, aim and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All the houses and stores of this forgotten town have collapsed long ago, all, that is, except for two. Both of these sorry, sand-blown shells stand on either side of an alley at the edge of town, and it is here that you decide to park your roadster. Quickly you discover that the buildings were once a hardware store and a tiny, one-pump gas station.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to investigate the derelict hardware store, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to take a closer look at the gas station, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn the handle and gently push open the door. You have taken but one step into the kitchen when a large glass storage jar falls from a shelf above your head and smashes down on your unprotected skull: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Wincing from the pain of your wound, you notice that the jar was attached by a thin cord to the inside handle of the door: it had been placed there deliberately. Not only have you lost some blood, but this primitive trap may have also lost you the element of surprise.</p>
- <p>With your nerves on edge, you advance through the kitchen and into the bar beyond. As you enter, you whisper Haskell's name in case, in the darkened interior, he mistakes you for a clansman.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If the total score is 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If the total score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With numbing force, you slam the coyote's head against the dashboard and fracture its skull. Immediately, its jaws slacken and Kate is able to pull the creature away by the scruff of its neck and bundle it out of the car. You are shaken but uninjured by the attack, the thickness of your leather sleeve having protected you from the coyote's fangs. Quickly you regain full control of the roadster and steer it with consummate ease towards the Christoval bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cabin door is unlocked. With the toe of your boot you push it open and cast a sceptical eye over the debris that lies within. The hut was once used to store all the food mart's routine paper documentation, most of which now lies scattered across the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to sift through the documents, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you choose to abandon the hut and continue your search elsewhere, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To avoid being seen by the two guards, you slip inside a doorway to your left and discover that it leads to an empty locker room. Having already removed the signal flare from your pack, you glance quickly into the corridor in order to establish where the guards are standing. Then you hold the flare out at arm's length, point it in their direction, and pull its ignition cord. (Remember to erase this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>In the confines of the corridor the flare erupts with devastating effect, its crimson smoke and hissing flame blinding and choking the two clan bodyguards. You grab a towel, which is hanging behind the door, and use it to cover your mouth as you run down the smoke-filled corridor. When you reach the stairs, the clansmen are incapable of defending themselves and you silence them swiftly with a close combat weapon. You are half-way up the stairs when you see the door to the observation block start to open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes all night for you to dismantle, cut, re-align and weld the damaged chassis. It is a difficult task, made even more so by fatigue, but the lessons you learnt when you helped Cutter to build this roadster over six months ago now prove invaluable. You work continuously, taking a break only when Kate sights a pack of Angelinos to the north. You turn off your torch and watch from the cover of the rocks as they pass along the highway heading south. Then, once they have disappeared, you resume the daunting task of repairing the crash damage.</p>
- <p>It is an hour after dawn when the repairs are finally completed. In the clear light of early morning you can see for miles across the rocky plain that surrounds the highway south of Eldorado. It appears empty, although you remain on the alert every second of your drive to Sonora, the next town marked on your <a idref="map">map</a>, for it is in this direction that the Angelinos were heading when they passed you last night. You are less than a mile from the ruins of Sonora when you are greeted by the welcome sight of Interstate 10, stretching east-to-west across your path. This is the freeway you hope will take you all the way to your rendezvous with the colony at Kent, and then on through the mountains to El Paso.</p>
- <p>You join the freeway and enjoy the feel of a firmer, clearer road surface beneath your wheels as you begin the long drive west. Still you can see no sign of the Angelinos, and Kate voices her hope that they have decided to search Sonora, thinking you may have hidden there last night. You want to agree with her, but suddenly, in the distance, you see something that proves her wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you strike your killing blow, a loud cheer fills the stadium. Ricky Riot, the top Angelinos rider, has just crossed the line and won the motorcycle race. Mekong Mike curses you with his dying breath and, as he falls to the floor, you suddenly realize that Mad Dog Michigan is watching you from the opposite side of the map table. He finishes speaking into a radio handset and then, with a cruel sneer, levels his pistol, taking deliberate aim at your head. He is about to squeeze the trigger when Kate appears behind him with a wooden stool clutched unsteadily in her hands. With one fell stroke she smashes it down upon his head, leaving him sprawled unconscious on the floor.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>With one fell stroke Kate smashes the stool down upon Mad Dog Michigan's head.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive and roll behind an auto wreck for cover. As you come to a halt, a second shot rings out and a puff of dust rises from the road near the place where you first landed. Angered by this attempt to kill you, and by the heart-rending moans of wounded Marine Gunter, you decide to flush this sniper out and even the score. Kate and the others are pinned down on the other side of the street and cannot move without exposing themselves to the sniper's sights. Only you can reach the drug store entrance with some degree of cover.</p>
- <p>When a third shot hits the helpless Gunter, your anger explodes. Despite Kate's pleas to stay down, you spring to your feet and sprint towards the drug store entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a loud cheer as the stadium gate opens, then the waiting bikers start up their machines and begin entering in single file. Amid all this activity you leave your hiding place and cross the wide avenue that encircles the stadium. None of the clansmen appears to notice as you walk boldly around to the east side of the arena, to a place where a large section of the wall has collapsed, leaving a heap of rubble that rises to within ten feet of the remaining wall. The coast is clear and so, with the blood pounding loudly in your ears, you clamber to the top of the heap and attempt to scale the wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk around the building and notice that it has no windows or other means of access. Nothing hints at what is stored inside, and the more you consider it, the more intrigued you become.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you possess a <typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ>, and wish to use it to try to cut through the padlock, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you possess an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it to blow open the doors, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you choose to ignore the building and its unknown contents and search elsewhere, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect95-1-foot" idref="sect95-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Simultaneously you step into the corridor and raise your rifle to your shoulder. The guard to the left of the staircase sees you but has no time to shout a warning before your bullet finds its mark.<a id="sect95-1" idref="sect95-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He spins backwards and falls heavily at the foot of the stairs as you work another round into the breach. Then you swing the barrel towards his partner, knowing only too well that you must make your second shot count just as effectively, but by the time you have him in your sights you are shocked to find that you are staring into the muzzle of his machine pistol.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If your total score is 19 or less, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If your total score is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man stares at you with fear in his eyes. He is on the brink of releasing the bow string when your pursuer comes roaring up the track, closely followed by the other Angelino scouts. You scream a warning to Kate and throw yourself down as a double burst of machine gun fire strafes the palisade. The bullets pass over your head and hit the archer in the chest, dropping him in a tangled heap on the threshold of the gateway.</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and rush forward to help Kate drag his body away so that the gate can be closed. The other members of the settlement come to your aid, and, once the gate is secure, they point to the cave mouth and urge you to enter. You do not want to abandon your roadster to the Angelinos, but to stay here and attempt to fight would be suicidal. Reluctantly you leave the gate and follow them into the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The biker laughs as he opens fire. Vivid yellow muzzle flashes and a stream of empty cartridge cases pour from the side of his assault rifle. Then the bullets strike home, punching a line of frosted holes through the toughened windshield. Fragments of flying glass graze your face {lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but miraculously the bullets fail to find you. He empties his entire magazine into the front of your roadster yet still it comes screaming towards him. Horrified, he fumbles to reload his weapon, but before he can do so he is hit by your front fender and sent spinning over the side of the bridge.</p>
- <p>Meanwhile, his confederate has managed to start his bike and is now racing across to the other side. You wrench the gear shift into low and give chase, determined to prevent him from warning Mad Dog Michigan that you are coming to pay the Lions an unexpected visit. Beyond the bridge, you chase the biker up a steep incline to the top of a ridge. As you crest the top, you see him gunning his machine towards Freeway 87, less than half a mile away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you wish to draw a weapon and fire at the biker while you are pursuing him, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to try to ram him off the road, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Uncle Jonas hands you a Signal Flare to use once the breach has been blown. You tell the others to watch for your flare. When they see it, they are to start their engines, drive through the Fabens barricade in breakout formation, and not stop until they reach El Paso.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch tensely as the bikers ride into the town. You give a silent prayer that they will pass through Eldorado without stopping, and, to your relief, your prayer is answered. With the immediate threat gone, you decide to remain where you are and get a few hours' sleep before waking Kate and continuing your journey at dawn.</p>
- <p>In the clear light of early morning you can see for miles across the rocky plain that surrounds the highway south of Eldorado. Although it appears empty, you remain on the alert every second of your drive to Sonora, the next town marked on your <a idref="map">map</a>, for it is in this direction that the Angelinos were heading when they rode through Eldorado last night. You are less than a mile from the ruins of Sonora when you are greeted by the welcome sight of Interstate 10, stretching east-to-west across your path. This is the freeway you hope will take you all the way to your rendezvous with the colony at Kent, and then on through the mountains to El Paso.</p>
- <p>You join the freeway and enjoy the feel of a firmer, clearer road surface beneath your wheels as you begin the long drive west. Still you can see no sign of the Angelinos, and Kate voices her hope that they have decided to search Sonora, thinking you may have hidden there last night. You want to agree with her, but suddenly, in the distance, you see something that proves her wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>What little of Sterling City that survived the icy, post-holocaust years has long since been gutted or looted by gangs of roving clansmen. Many have left their mark, sprayed on the sides of auto wrecks or scrawled in jagged letters across warehouse walls.</p>
- <p>You bring your roadster to a halt and survey the ruins for some sign of life. The place reminds you of the city punk zones of Fort Worth, and, as you scour the shadowy doorways, an uneasy feeling grows in the pit of your stomach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to stay on the freeway and drive through Sterling City, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you decide to leave the freeway and make a detour around the town, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A search of the dead Angelino's body reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Eight rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Enough antibiotics for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for two Drinks)</li>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Goggles</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>Parked beside the entrance to the store, from where the Angelino first appeared, you discover his motorcycle. You use it to transport Kate and the welding equipment back to your roadster and immediately set to work on repairing the damage. It takes all night for you to dismantle, cut, re-align and weld the damaged chassis. It is a difficult task, made even more so by fatigue, but the lessons you learnt when you helped Cutter to build this roadster over six months ago prove invaluable.</p>
- <p>You work continuously, and it is not until an hour after dawn that the repairs are finally completed. In the clear light of early morning you can see for miles across the rocky plain that surrounds the highway south of Eldorado. It appears empty, although you remain on the alert every second of your drive to Sonora, the next town marked on your <a idref="map">map</a>, for it is in this direction that the Angelinos were heading when they passed you last night. You are less than a mile from the ruins of Sonora when you are greeted by the welcome sight of Interstate 10, stretching east-to-west across your path. This is the freeway you hope will take you all the way to your rendezvous with the colony at Kent, and then on through the mountains to El Paso.</p>
- <p>You join the freeway and enjoy the feel of a firmer, clearer road surface beneath your wheels as you begin the long drive west. Still you can see no sign of the Angelinos, and Kate voices her hope that they have decided to search Sonora, thinking you may have hidden there last night. You want to agree with her, but suddenly, in the distance, you see something that proves her wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Their eyes widen with a mixture of awe and avarice when you produce the bottle of bourbon from your Backpack. Greedily, the short clansman snatches it from your hands and takes a large gulp of the liquor. Then his partner takes a swig, replaces the cap, and grins delightedly.</p>
- <p>'You jus' bought yourself a grandstand seat, fella,' he says, slipping the bottle inside a satchel he carries slung over his shoulder. His companion eyes him with distrust, and begrudgingly he agrees to help you into the stadium. Once more you climb the pile of rubble, but this time you are accompanied by the two clansmen. They help you over the wall and then return to the avenue, chuckling and celebrating their good fortune.</p>
- <p>From a position high among the tiers, you look down at the rows of empty seats that encircle the dusty arena and observe the preparations taking place around the perimeter track. This stadium once hosted international sporting events, many of which were televised and beamed live around the world. Now it plays host to a sporting event of a very different kind. The Angelinos have challenged the Lions to put forward four of their best riders for a twenty-lap motorcycle race around the arena. The track itself reminds you of an old film you saw when you were a child, a film about the wild chariot races that took place in Ancient Rome. Today's event is meant to be a friendly challenge to celebrate the signing of their alliance, but with clan honour at stake the race will undoubtedly be fought out in deadly earnest.</p>
- <p>Facing you, on the far side of the stadium, is the glass-fronted observation block that was once used by television and radio commentators. Your curiosity is aroused by it when you notice that the door to the block is heavily guarded. Fixedly you stare at its full-length windows and count five occupants: four clansmen and one blonde-haired girl. You cannot see her face clearly, but you know that the girl you are looking at is Kate Norton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect103-1-foot" idref="sect103-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire hits the sniper in the chest and flings him against the wall.<a id="sect103-1" idref="sect103-1-foot" class="footnote" /> With a gurgling groan, he slides to the floor and rolls over on to his crimson-stained stomach, his rifle still clutched in his hands. (If you wish to keep this weapon, you discover that it contains eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>You shout an 'all clear' to the others in the street below and then turn to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bullet smacks into the passenger door and another ricochets loudly off the hardened steel plates that protect the headrest and back of your driving seat. The sound makes you flinch involuntarily, but you suppress your fear and force yourself to concentrate. You take your foot off the gas as you turn the ignition switch, despite an almost overwhelming urge to stamp the pedal straight through the floor. Too much gas would flood the engine for sure, leaving you stranded, a sitting duck for those Mavericks who are now beginning to close in on all sides.</p>
- <p>Your restraint pays off; the engine roars into life and within seconds you are accelerating away from the barricade, your eyes glued firmly on the convoy's tail lights. A few poorly aimed bullets chase your escape but you soon catch up with the school bus and pass beyond the range of the Maverick's guns.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only hope you have of repairing your crippled roadster is to return to Eldorado and search all the derelict garages and service stations for some welding equipment. Tired and dejected, you abandon the car and begin the long walk back to town. You have covered less than a mile when, to your dismay, you see a line of motorcycle headlights approaching.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If your total score is 24 or less, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If your total is 25 or more, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>News of your escape into the southern ruins of San Angelo is relayed to Mad Dog Michigan. Already he has told the Angelinos that you have assassinated their leader and, in the prevailing emergency, he has appointed himself their new commander. He orders the Angelinos to saturate the southern sector and to kill both of you on sight.</p>
- <p>You manage to reach the megamarket without further clan encounters, and are relieved to find that your roadster has remained undisturbed since you left it this morning. It takes a few frustrating minutes to start the engine, but as soon as it is running smoothly you leave San Angelo as fast as you can, heading south on the remains of Highway 277.</p>
- <p>While you are driving, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect107-1-foot" idref="sect107-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At such close range, your burst of automatic fire lifts the heavy clansman clean off his feet.<a id="sect107-1" idref="sect107-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He screams, and with a crash he lands on his back in the middle of the table, before rolling lifelessly to the floor. The other two reach for their pistols as hurriedly they back away from the clansman's bloodstained body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swerve and accelerate to avoid the missile, and it hits the ground a few feet behind the trunk of your roadster. The blast takes your breath away, but you recover quickly and bring your car under control with consummate skill. In your mirror you see the convoy coming under small-arms fire, but it is light and sporadic and it claims no victims. Soon you are all safely out of the battle zone and racing away from the Slaughter Mountain run towards Sierra Blanca.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a light to help you, it is easy to follow the thick power cables that line the walls of the service tunnel. For fifteen minutes you walk without interruption until you reach a wider section where a ladder ascends to a circular steel hatch fitted flush to the tunnel ceiling. Kate suggests that it could be worth investigating, and you lift up the heavy steel cover carefully and look out. Kate was right: the sight that greets you is the entrance gate to the Reagan Memorial Stadium.</p>
- <p>After waiting until there is little clan activity in the immediate area, you emerge from the shaft and make your way quickly into the ruins of the southern central sector of the San Angelo stronghold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate catches you as you emerge from the library and pulls you a safe distance away. Moments later, the roof of the library collapses with a loud, splintering crack, and clouds of sparks whirl into the night, carried upward by the strong, gusting wind. Silently you look at Kate's smoke-blackened face, and then at the blazing library, and you realize just how lucky you both are to have got out of that inferno alive.</p>
- <p>By the time you recover fully from your ordeal and return to your roadster, the storm has blown itself out. The eastern sky is lightening as dawn approaches, and you decide to leave Bakersfield now, before the sun rises and the temperature becomes unbearable. Beyond the town, the freeway climbs steadily towards a distant line of mountains that shimmer on the horizon. You keep your speed as low as possible and cover forty miles with your fuel gauge nudging the zero mark. Then the silhouette of Fort Stockton appears on the road ahead and your hopes of finding some gas are rekindled.</p>
- <p>The first thing you see upon entering the town is a gas station. Like everything else, the station appears deserted, but there is something about this building that makes your skin prickle with presentiment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scorched bones of a coyote lie scattered around the ashes of the campfire, the remnants of the meal that you watched the two clansmen share. Where their motorcycles were parked you discover a <typ class="item">Leather Face Mask</typ>. If you decide to keep this item, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Satisfied that nothing of importance has been missed, you return to your roadster and begin the next stage of your journey to San Angelo. Less than a mile beyond the bridge you see a deserted stretch of Freeway 87. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms your suspicions: you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You abandon your cover and shadow the two clansmen as they circle around to the rear. An old tyre rack propped against the side of a derelict car wash offers you a good defensive position, and quickly you scurry towards it. You reach the rack in time to see the Lions halt. For a moment they duck out of sight, but soon they reappear and come running half-crouched with guns at the ready, towards your newfound hiding place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If the weapon you are using is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If the weapon you are using is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If the weapon you are using is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shout is met by silence. You are about to repeat it when a burst of machine gun fire rings out and six ragged holes suddenly appear in the centre of the kitchen door.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If the number you have picked is 0-1, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If it is 2-5, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If it is 6-9, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You start your car and steer it back on to the freeway towards Fabens. Ten minutes later, you see the town in the distance, and once more you hide your roadster in the yucca forest before going forward to scout the clan-held town.</p>
- <p>A formidable barricade has been thrown across the freeway approach. It consists of auto wrecks filled with earth and broken chunks of concrete, stacked three deep. It would be virtually impossible for the convoy to break through this barrier. On the perimeter of the town, the Mexicans have dug pits to entrap any vehicles attempting to bypass the barricade. It looks hopeless, but if you are to reach El Paso, you must find a way through this freeway defence.</p>
- <p>After observing the barricade at some length, Sergeant Haskell evolves a plan to blow a hole in it that is large enough to allow the convoy through in its entirety. You return to Fort Hancock and inform the colony of the plan. Then a message is sent to El Paso, requesting that they be ready and waiting to receive you once you break through.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you possess a <typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ>, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hold your breath and try not to move as the clansman rummages through a tool box less than four feet from where you are crouching. Unfortunately, the dust he is stirring up causes you to sneeze, betraying your presence. Suddenly, one of the gasolene drums is rolled aside and you feel two strong hands grab your jacket and drag you to your feet.</p>
- <p>'What are you up to?' growls the scar-faced Detroit Lion, his stinking breath making you pull away in disgust. 'Sabotage, is it?' he spits, accusingly.</p>
- <p>'Nah <ch.ellips/> I ain't no saboteur,' you reply, stalling for time, as you let your hand drift slowly towards your close combat weapon. I'm an Angelino who jus' wants t'see the race. I'm supposed to be patrolling the south zone but ain't nothin' ever happens down there. Gimme a break, will ya?'</p>
- <p>As your fingers close around your weapon, you see something that makes you hesitate. At the rear of the truck you glimpse a large crowd of clansmen who are queueing to enter the stadium. The sight dissuades you from attacking your accuser, and instead you decide to try offering him a bribe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you possess a <typ class="item">Bottle of Bourbon</typ>, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself against the damp stalagmites and gently flick your shotgun's safety catch to 'fire'. The clansman's footsteps seem unbearably loud as you wait for the moment to launch your ambush. As he comes to a halt, you rise up from your hiding place and open fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total score is 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If your total score is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are twenty yards out from the wall when a burst of machine gun fire echoes across the open ground. Bullets graze the rubble just a few feet ahead and ricochet into the air with a piercing whine. Kate looks over her shoulder and begins to slow her pace to allow you to catch up, but you scream at her to keep running and she obeys your command.</p>
- <p>When you are half-way across the gap, a wave of exhaustion descends on you like a lead blanket. Painfully your thigh muscles tighten until, in the throes of cramp, you stumble and fall. Desperately you try to rise but more shots ring out and you feel something sharp and searing, like a red-hot dagger, pierce your side. Your vision swims in and out of focus and the last thing you see, before total darkness descends, is Kate as she reaches the fire station.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here in San Angelo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tyres and brakes squeal like banshees as you fight to bring the roadster to a rapid halt. Moments later, the panel truck flashes past, missing the front fender by inches, and overturning on the wreckage-strewn highway. Your skill and keen reflexes have saved you from colliding with the truck, but the sight of the convoy fast disappearing along the freeway makes you feel very uncomfortable. You change into low gear and pump the gas pedal, but nothing happens. The engine has stalled. Frantically you reach for the ignition to bring the car back to life before the surviving Mavericks close in and attempt to put an end to yours.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Driving and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If your total is now 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If it is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before he can draw his gun, you land a punch to the side of the clansman's head that sends him reeling to the ground. Kate collapses against the rear door, her hands clasping her throat as she gasps painfully for breath. You are about to help her stand when the clansman lashes out with his foot and brings you down with a vicious kick to the knee: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Before you can recover fully, he leaps on you and tries to strangle you to death with his powerful hands.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hang-Ten</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and fury of his attack, you are unable to draw a close combat weapon until the third round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'This should open the gate nice and wide,' says Haskell, as he takes the Leviathan from your hands and settles himself into position at the edge of the freeway.</p>
- <p>'Stand clear!' he shouts, and then releases the trigger mechanism and sends the high explosive missile screaming towards the centre of the barricade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you retrieve your weapon and step outside into the corridor. There, lying next to the siren. you see the guard's machine pistol. (If you decide to take this weapon, you discover that its magazine contains twenty-four rounds of 9mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>You pick up the siren and switch it off as you run towards the iron staircase. You are half-way up the steps when you see the door to the observation block start to open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Her gunfire silences the screaming Angelino. He throws his arms wide and tumbles backwards out of the saddle. The sight of him crashing into the river stuns the remaining clansmen just long enough for you to complete your wheel change and jump back into the car. As you reach the top of the bank and speed away towards the distant highway, you glance over your shoulder to see the scouts retrieving their leader's body from the South Concho River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The case-hardened steel padlock is difficult but not impossible to cut. Eventually it gives and you are able to gain access to the hangar-like building. Inside you discover an armoured truck, one of many that were once used by banks to transport cash and bullion around Texas. This one was hijacked shortly before 'The Day', and was brought here where its cargo was to have been shared out by the robbers. However they never had a chance to divide and spend their loot, and the vehicle still contains over thirty million dollars in cash, a sum now completely worthless.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The armoured truck still contains over thirty million dollars in cash, a sum now completely worthless.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="617" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="617" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The truck's fuel tank is a quarter full, but it is diesel oil and cannot be used in your roadster. Cursing your luck, you search the truck and the building for anything that may be of practical use and you discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Air Pump</typ></li>
- <li>Distilled Water (enough for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Engine Oil</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Monkey Wrench</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>Dusk is beginning to give way to darkness and you are anxious to return to the roadster before the evening light fades completely. Having satisfied yourself that you have overlooked nothing of value, you leave the building and return to your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Very little of any practical use remains intact within the cars that are littered around the lot. However, a search of the service bay uncovers the following items that may be of help to you on the road ahead:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Engine Oil</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these Backpack Items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Having satisfied yourself that nothing else of use has been overlooked, you return to your roadster and resume your journey to San Angelo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the immediate area for a track or some other means by which you can ascend the peak, but your efforts are to no avail. Reluctantly, you are forced to abandon your investigation and return to your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210"><link-text>Turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Judging from the long-horned skull that you find painted on the back of his leather vest, you have just laid to rest your first Angelino. On the floor, close to where you first spotted him, you find his weapons and equipment: a Machine Pistol (containing eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition) and a Backpack, which holds the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Small Blanket</typ></li>
- <li>Enough bandages, sulfonamides, and antiseptics for three Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>In addition to these items, a search of the kitchen also reveals the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Meat Cleaver (3)</li>
- <li>Bread Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Enough canned food for five Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of the items in either list, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the kitchen, you hide the clansman's body in an empty refrigerator. Then you hurry through the fire escape door and make your way up a flight of rusty steps that lead to a service alley at the rear of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first two clansmen to enter the workshop fall victim to your gunfire. The others duck back and crouch either side of the doorway as their leader, a wiry biker with a badly broken nose, offers you the chance to give yourselves up. Defiantly you both refuse.</p>
- <p>Seconds later a clutch of grenades are thrown into the workshop and they explode with a thunderous flash. You are both mortally wounded in the blast, and when the Angelinos finally summon enough courage to storm into the room, they find you dead in each other's arms.</p>
- <p>Your journey and your life end here in Eldorado.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as the clansmen have disappeared from sight, you break cover and run, half-crouched, towards their jeep. Kate circles around to the other side and climbs into the passenger seat while you search for the ignition. To your horror, you discover that the ignition keys are missing.</p>
- <p>Add together your Field Craft and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect129-1-foot" idref="sect129-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the three dials that are set into the top of the security valve. Each is divided into three segments, and each segment displays a number. One of the segments on the third dial has numbers which can be altered by hand. Carefully you consider the numbers and soon realize that they are part of a coded combination lock. By turning the adjustable numbers on the third dial to the correct total, you will release the lock and open the valve.</p>
- <p>Consider the following numbers carefully. When you think you know what the missing number is, turn to the entry which bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect129-1" idref="sect129-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you cannot solve the security code, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite pulling your T-shirt to your face to filter out the dust, the heat and the cloying air conspire to sap your strength: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Determinedly you continue your search and, after nearly half an hour of exhausting work, you uncover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Siren</typ></li>
- <li>Six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Hunting Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tenon Saw</typ></li>
- <li>Four rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Plastic Tube</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">File</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember to make a note on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> of any of the items that you decide to keep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">To continue, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter an alley that runs alongside the bar, and make your way to the rear door. Through a cracked glass panel you can see the kitchens. They are empty, but remnants of food lie scattered across the tables and, judging by the amount of fresh garbage strewn on the floor, a large group of clansmen must have eaten here not so long ago.</p>
- <p>You test the handle and discover that the door is unlocked.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Eldorado, the imaginary land of riches,' you say sardonically, as you scan the tumbledown buildings of this derelict Texan town. 'Somehow I jus' don't reckon we'll find any riches here.'</p>
- <p>'I guess you're right,' says Kate. 'But we might find us somewhere to rest up a while. I sure could use a few hours' sleep.'</p>
- <p>The dangers you have encountered during the day have kept you mentally and physically alert, but now that the immediate threat has passed, the fatigue of your ordeal catches up with you all at once. Your need to rest makes the thought of stopping here almost irresistible, but, no matter how tired you feel, you cannot ignore the fact that you are being hunted by the Angelinos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to stop and rest in Eldorado, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you decide to continue driving, despite your fatigue, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Coughing and popping, the roadster lurches to a halt in the middle of the highway. You try to restart the engine but it refuses to run smoothly for more than a few seconds at a time. You are running over all the possible faults that could have caused the breakdown when suddenly you remember the comp-aid digipad that Cutter fitted to the dashboard while you were in Big Spring. He had salvaged the unit from the wreck of a '99 Mercedes Malibu Coup<ch.eacute/> and modified it so that you could use it to run an automatic systems check on your roadster. Hurriedly you tap in your access code and immediately the unit's LCD identifies the fault : <ch.ellips/> FUEL FILTER <ch.ellips/></p>
- <p>It takes you an hour to dismantle, clean and replace the fuel filter, during which time you must take 2 Drinks or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to dehydration.</p>
- <p>The fault rectified, the engine starts sweetly the first time you touch the ignition. You accelerate away but within a few minutes you see something in the distance that makes you slow to a snail's pace.</p>
- <p>It is a girder bridge that carries the highway across the North Concho River. The bridge is intact and passable, but you are worried by the sight of a lazy plume of wood smoke rising from a spot near its approach ramp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Sergeant Haskell beside you, you drive out of Sierra Blanca, heading west on Interstate 10. A few miles later, you see a forest of strange plants growing on either side of the freeway. They are ten to twenty feet high, with stiff, spiky leaves and topped with white, bell-like flowers.</p>
- <p>'Those are yuccas,' says Haskell, clearly amused by your open-mouthed reaction at seeing these almost science-fictional plants for the first time.</p>
- <p>'I'm amazed they've survived where everything else has failed,' you reply. 'They must be good at adapting to their new environment.'</p>
- <p>'That's the key to survival, Cal. We all have to adapt if we are to survive.'</p>
- <p>You keep your car at a steady sixty miles per hour until the ruins of Fort Hancock loom into view. Like Sierra Blanca, this town is deserted, having been looted by the Mexicans months ago. Sergeant Haskell radios back to the convoy to tell them that the town is safe to enter. When they arrive, you continue towards Fabens to scout the barricade.</p>
- <p>You are less than three miles from Fort Hancock when you see a vehicle approaching on the highway ahead. Rather than run the risk of a head-on confrontation, you pull your car off the freeway and hide it among the yuccas. As the vehicle grows nearer, you see that it is a military truck, loaded with munitions, and manned by a group of Mexican clansmen. Both you and Sergeant Haskell realize that if this truck is allowed to reach Fort Hancock, it could destroy the colony's hopes of ever seeing El Paso.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using strips of cotton torn from the bottom of your T-shirt, Kate bandages your wound as best she can. Her speedy action stops the bleeding and enables you to continue your escape. The wide corridor into which you have emerged is empty at present, but the sound of running footsteps is growing louder with each passing second, and it will not be very long before this area is teeming with clansmen. Kate points to a service hatch, almost invisible against the dirt-encrusted wall, and suggests that you hide there. You nod your agreement and help her to prise open the rusty hatch door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a desperate attempt to reach him before he can cock and fire his gun, you race towards your adversary and launch yourself at his chest. The shock of seeing you charging at him makes him hesitate for a few vital seconds, and when your fists connect with his body, the force of impact leaves him winded and stunned. Still he fights to free himself from your grip, and, as he wriggles free, he unsheathes a knife from his boot and lunges at your neck.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rockblitz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of your attack, and your first strike, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wearily you search through the ruins of stores that are still standing at the centre of the town. A derelict food mart holds out promise of supplies, but once inside you realize that it must have been looted months ago. At the rear of the building, inside a fenced compound, you see a storage cabin. The door is closed and it shows no obvious signs of ever having been forced open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to enter the compound and search the storage cabin, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you decide to ignore the cabin and continue your search elsewhere, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect138-1-foot" idref="sect138-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to ignore the hail of bullets whistling past on all sides as coolly you crouch down and adopt a two-handed combat stance in order to steady your aim. The clansman is wild with fury, but a single shot to the head, delivered with chilling precision, is all it takes to stop him dead in his tracks.<a id="sect138-1" idref="sect138-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Before you bury these two Detroit Lions, you search their bodies and their bikes, and discover the following useful items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (containing three rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Leather Face Mask</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li>Machine Pistol (containing eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Enough pain killers for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- </ul>
- <p>There remains no trace of the bikers or their machines when eventually you complete the grisly task of burial. Wearily you return to your roadster and begin the next stage of your journey to San Angelo. Less than a mile beyond the bridge you see a deserted stretch of Freeway 87. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms that you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are half-way through the door when your foot becomes caught among the burning shelves and you are sent sprawling to the ground. Quickly you recover and press on with your escape, but as a result of your fall, you sustain painful first-degree burns to your hands (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and lose one item from your Backpack (erase one item of your choice).</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">Make the necessary amendments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and then <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The coyote is in a frenzy of pain and fear. No matter how hard Kate strikes it with her pistol, the beast refuses to relinquish its grip on your arm. In desperation she tries to drag the dog away, but this also pulls your arm off the steering wheel and causes the car to swerve sideways and go into a violent skid. You slam on the brakes and bring the roadster to a juddering halt, throwing the coyote hard against the dashboard, but still it remains fixed to your arm. The only way you are going to free yourself of this creature is by killing it in close combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wild Coyote</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">7</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you win and the fight takes four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you win and the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter through a gaping hole in the store's front window. The shattered remains scrunch loudly beneath the soles of your boots as you explore its darkened interior. The place is a shambles, the fittings and stock having been exposed to the elements for many years. It is a relief to be out of the midday sun but you soon experience difficulty with your breathing for the air is becoming saturated with a fine dust stirred by your movement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to continue your search of this dust-choked store, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you decide to return to your roadster and leave the town, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect142-1-foot" idref="sect142-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you check your magazine and cock the firing bolt as the first clansman scurries between the rocks that litter the edge of the service area. He is less than twenty-five yards away when you squeeze off your first burst of fire and bring him crashing to the ground.<a id="sect142-1" idref="sect142-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His partner hesitates, then abandons his stealthy approach and comes running towards you, screaming hysterically, his own machine pistol blazing furiously at his hip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you have sufficient ammunition and wish to fire again, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not have sufficient ammunition to fire a second time, or choose not to fire, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush forward, pausing briefly at the bottom of the staircase to check that the two guards are no longer a threat. Lying across the bloodstained chest of one of the men is a machine pistol (if you wish to take this weapon, you discover that it contains twenty-four rounds of 9mm ammunition) and attached to the belt of the other is an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>.</p>
- <p>Stepping over the bodies, you begin to ascend the stairs to the observation room, but you are only half-way up when you see the door start to open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate succeeds in giving enough covering fire to keep the clansmen pinned down, while you retrieve the spare tyre, jack and wheel brace from the trunk of the car. But in doing so she empties her gun, and she has no spare ammunition with which to reload.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you possess at least six rounds of 9mm ammunition, and wish to give them to Kate so that she can reload her pistol, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess less than six rounds of 9mm ammunition, and wish to give them to Kate, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you possess no 9mm rounds whatsoever, or do not wish to give any that you have to Kate, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The frightened man lowers his aim and sends the arrow thudding into the ground at your feet<ch.emdash/>a warning shot. At that moment your pursuer comes roaring up the track, closely followed by the other Angelino scouts whom you encountered at the bridge. You scream a warning to Kate and throw yourself down as a double burst of machine gun fire strafes the palisade. The bullets pass over your back and hit the archer in the chest, dropping him in a tangled heap on the threshold of the gateway.</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and rush forward to help Kate drag his body away, so that the gate can be closed. The other members of the settlement come to your aid and, once the gate is secure, they point to the cave mouth and urge you to enter. You do not want to abandon your roadster to the Angelinos, but to stay here and attempt to fight would be suicidal. Reluctantly you leave the gate and follow them into the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman curses you with his dying breath, then keels over and falls heavily across his dead partner's body. Your limbs ache viciously from the bruises and fatigue of your ordeal, and before you can carry on you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Once you have fully recovered, you decide to bury your enemies. But first you search both bodies and the bikes, and discover the following useful items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Machine Pistol (containing twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Enough pain killers for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li>Pistol (containing four rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Leather Face Mask</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>There remains no trace of the bikers or their machines when eventually you complete the grisly task of burial. Then wearily you return to your roadster and begin the next stage of your journey to San Angelo. Less than a mile beyond the bridge you see a deserted stretch of Freeway 87. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms that you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the bar and return to the convoy to tell the colony what has happened. After considering the likelihood of running into a Maverick ambush on the way to Sierra Blanca, probably in the narrow pass that separates Slaughter Mountain from Devil Ridge, the maps are consulted. A proposal is put forward by Sergeant Haskell that the convoy detours north, across the Salt Lakes to Cornudas, and approach El Paso on Highway 62. It looks like the safest route to follow and it is soon agreed.</p>
- <p>The convoy is turned around and you lead it north, but you have not travelled very far when you see something on the road ahead that forces another change of plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow Kate as she runs through the debris towards an exit at the rear. You watch as she races through the open doorway and collides head-on with a clansman, who is hurrying into the building. The two rebound off each other and fall to the ground, stunned and bruised. Drunkenly, the clansman grabs Kate by the throat and fumbles for a pistol that is holstered beneath his shoulder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you do not have a missile weapon, do not wish to use one, or have insufficient ammunition, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your roadster to a halt beside the pick-up but leave the engine idling in case you have to make a fast getaway. After checking to make sure that it is not booby-trapped, you lift the hood and take a look at the truck's engine. The ground beneath it is stained black where oil has leaked from a shattered sump; the damage looks irreparable.</p>
- <p>Inside the cab you find a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ> attached to the dashboard. It has its own self-contained power supply and the unit is still in good working order. Having satisfied your curiosity, you return to your car and continue on your way to San Angelo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to spend the night in the library's main hall. After clearing a space near the centre, you build a small campfire, using a few of the many thousands of books that line the walls. Then, once it is ablaze, you help Kate to prepare the food she has found. Outside, the weather has grown steadily worse. Thunder rolls across the surrounding plains and the jagged flashes of forked lightning illuminate the roiling clouds of dust with increasing regularity.</p>
- <p>'I don't like it<ch.emdash/>it looks real bad,' you say, as you stare anxiously out of the window at the raging storm.</p>
- <p>'It ain't all bad,' replies Kate. 'At least we don't have to worry 'bout Mad Dog's boys showin' up outta the blue.'</p>
- <p>The food and wine taste delicious (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and, after eating your fill, you both settle down to sleep in front of the glowing embers of the campfire.</p>
- <p>It seems as though you have only just closed your eyes when you are stirred to consciousness by a loud crackling sound and the acrid smell of smoke. Horror fills your senses when you open your eyes to see yourself surrounded by a blazing wall of yellow flame. Lightning struck the library roof while you were asleep, starting a fire that has been fuelled by the shelves of dust-dry books, and which has now spread to the main hall where it threatens to consume you both.</p>
- <p>Quickly you wake Kate and together you fight your way towards the main door. You are within ten feet of the exit when a burning bookcase falls across your path.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You and Kate are within ten feet of the exit when a burning bookcase falls across your path.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="622" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="622" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you possess a <typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ>, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The coarse staccato sound of a machine pistol and the sight of a clansman's grinning face are the last sensations you experience as a dozen bullets rip into your chest. Mercifully, the bullets deliver a quick and painless death.</p>
- <p>Your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A parting blow with the edge of your newfound weapon stuns the clansman and drops him to the floor. You call to Kate, telling her to follow you, and immediately she moves out from her hiding place. As she passes the clansman, she stoops to snatch his machine pistol from the floor and then quickly follows in your footsteps as you retrace your way along the defile and return to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass between the shattered stores and houses of Broome with your nerves on edge, half-expecting to run into a clan patrol or fall prey to an ambush. Yet your visit passes without incident and soon you find yourself back on the open freeway, heading southeast to San Angelo. You are hungry, and during your drive you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When you first see San Angelo, the sun is a quarter hidden below the skyline, its soft red glow reflecting upon a cluster of tall buildings that stand at the city's centre. They are the ravaged shells of banks and state offices that were the pride of this once-prosperous city before 'The Day'. Surrounding them, for many miles, is a sea of dust and rubble. Your skin prickles when you realize that this is all that remains of the city's suburbs, an area that once was home to more than a million Texans.</p>
- <p>You are about to drive towards the centre when you notice that a fortified wall has been erected around the tall buildings of the downtown area, and the northern freeway approaches are controlled by roadblocks. It would be near-suicidal to approach any closer, so you make a wide detour around the city limits and try an approach from the south.</p>
- <p>It takes nearly two hours to reach the south side of San Angelo, by which time night has fallen. Fortunately, your decision to go south has paid off: this section of the city is virtually uninhabited by the Angelinos and your approach goes undetected.</p>
- <p>Hidden by the darkness, you are able to get within a mile of the downtown area before you encounter any sign of clan activity. You know that if your rescue of Kate is to be successful you must not allow your roadster to fall into enemy hands, and with this thought in mind, you search for somewhere safe to leave it while you venture into the downtown area on foot.</p>
- <p>An underground parking lot situated below the looted ruins of a Sears megamarket provides just such a safe haven, and it is here that you hide your car. You are tired after the rigours of your journey, so you decide to get a few hours' sleep and attempt your rescue at first light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a moment you are blinded by a deluge of stones and stinking water as you drive through the aftermath of the explosion. Then, as you catch sight of the opposite bank, there is another blast and you feel your steering wheel pulling sharply to the left.</p>
- <p>'We've lost a tyre,' you shout, as you battle to get the car on to dry land. You succeed in reaching the far bank and skid sideways to a halt. You both leap out quickly and take cover behind the engine compartment. The clansmen seem to have exhausted their supply of grenades, but they are all armed with machine pistols and they proceed to empty them in your direction.</p>
- <p>Kate draws her pistol and prepares to give covering fire while you inspect the damage. The front left tyre has been shredded by shrapnel and is beyond repair. You will have to replace it with the spare tyre you carry in the trunk. However, in order to retrieve it, you will have to expose yourself to bursts of machine pistol fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score. Now add the combined figure to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If the resulting total score is 28 or less, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If the total score is 29 or more, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With dismay, Kate tells you that she can find no anti-toxins in your Medi-kit. Using blankets dragged from the store room, she tries to make you as comfortable as possible as the first shivers of fever begin to grip your pain-wracked body. She cleans the inflamed wound and tries to comfort you as best she can while, over the next three hours, your body battles to overcome the toxin in your blood: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you are still alive after sustaining such a grievous shock to your system, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You act purely on instinct, yet the speed and precision of your actions are enough to save your life. Skilfully you decelerate, using the roadster's gears and brakes in unison to prevent the car from ramming into the panel truck. Then, before the engine stalls or the surviving Mavericks are able to close in, you pump the gas and take off once more, your eyes now glued firmly on the tail lights of the school bus. A few poorly aimed bullets chase your escape but you soon catch up with the convoy and pass beyond the range of the Maverick's guns.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Haskell dispatches three of the four clansmen, and the survivor manages to escape into the yucca forest. You are about to give chase when he says, 'Let him go, Cal. He won't get far on his own. Let's see what they had on board the truck.'</p>
- <p>You discover several crates and lockers filled with munitions: mortars, anti-tank weapons, heavy machine guns and the like. However, you cannot find any ammunition for these weapons. You are about to set fire to the truck, to prevent them from falling into the hands of other clansmen, when you discover one item that could be of some use after all.</p>
- <p>In a sealed locker at the bottom of the heap, you discover a portable Leviathan ground-to-air missile, a weapon with approximately eight times the destructive power of a bazooka. If you wish to keep this <typ class="item">Leviathan Missile</typ>, you must reduce your Stealth score by 2 points due to its size and weight.</p>
- <p>Having set fire to the truck, you return to your roadster. You are just about to climb in when you feel an arm snake around your neck and pull you backwards into the yucca forest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Guerrero</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of his attack, do not erase any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points your enemy may lose in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tighten your grip on your close combat weapon as the door handle turns. The door flies open and you stare at the startled face of your enemy as you spring forward and strike the first blow. Your speedy attack opens a gash across his forehead and knocks the pistol from his hand. He reels back, clutching his face, and immediately you press forward to strike again, eager to silence him before he can raise the alarm.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Armalite</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the fury and surprise with which you launched your first strike, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain during the first two rounds of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you win and the fight takes five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push open the doors and enter the gloomy kitchen. Out of the corner of your eye you notice a movement. You turn around and see a clansman crouching in front of a food locker, trying to prise the door open with the edge of a meat cleaver. He sees you and his eyes open wide with shock. Before you can draw a weapon and fire, he draws the cleaver back and hurls it at your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The clansman draws the meat cleaver back and hurls it at your chest.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="541" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="541" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'It's them!' cries Knott, as he sights the convoy vehicles trundling along the freeway towards Kent. Led by Pete Tyler's tow truck, the convoy pulls into the town with all horns blaring and everyone shouting their relief and delight that the rendezvous has been accomplished. It is a joyous reunion, made especially happy by the return of Kate to the colony.</p>
- <p>After the excitement has abated you settle down to discuss the more serious matters at hand. From his vantage place in the sky, Rickenbacker has been able to track the movements of Amex Gold and his Maverick clansmen. A large contingent have been shadowing the convoy and are now in ambush somewhere in the mountains ahead. Also, Pop Ewell has monitored by radio the movements of a large Mexican clan, who have crossed the border in search of fuel and food. And, to make matters even worse, Mad Dog Michigan has linked up with the 'Saints', the clan from New Orleans, and now they too are somewhere in the vicinity.</p>
- <p>'Looks like we're surrounded by enemies,' says Cutter, volunteering his opinion. 'Seem's to me we've got to keep movin' if we're to stand a cat's chance o' gettin' to El Paso in one piece.'</p>
- <p>His opinions are shared by the majority, and so it is decided to leave Kent this afternoon and press on to El Paso without delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman's eyes widen with a mixture of awe and avarice when you produce the bottle of bourbon from your Backpack. Greedily he snatches it from your hands, pulls the cork, and up-ends the bottle into his mouth. Five gulps later he replaces the cork and grins delightedly.</p>
- <p>'You jus' bought yourself a grandstand seat, fella,' he says, hiding the bottle inside his jacket.</p>
- <p>Still grinning, he returns to the cab and restarts the engine. Shortly the truck stops once again, but this time it is parked alongside three others in a section of the stadium that has been turned into a pits area. You leave the truck and slip away through the crowds of mechanics and riders towards an empty section of the arena.</p>
- <p>From a position high among the tiers, you look down at the rows of empty seats that encircle the dusty arena and observe the preparations taking place around the perimeter track. This stadium once hosted international sporting events, many of which were televised and beamed live around the world. Now it plays host to a sporting event of a very different kind. The Angelinos have challenged the Lions to put forward four of their best riders for a twenty-lap motorcycle race around the arena. The track itself reminds you of an old film you saw when you were a child, a film about the wild chariot races that took place in Ancient Rome. Today's event is meant to be a friendly challenge to celebrate the signing of their alliance, but with clan honour at stake the race will undoubtedly be fought out in deadly earnest.</p>
- <p>Facing you, on the far side of the stadium, is the glass-fronted observation block that was once used by television and radio commentators. Your curiosity is aroused by it when you notice that the door to the block is heavily guarded. Fixedly you stare at its full-length windows and count five occupants: four clansmen and one blonde-haired girl. You cannot see her face clearly, but you know that she is Kate Norton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You know that you must prevent the truck from reaching Fort Hancock, and the only sure way to do that is to ambush it. You leave the roadster and take up a position at the edge of the freeway. When the truck is twenty yards away, Sergeant Haskell opens fire at its tyres with his machine pistol. The bullets explode the tyres, causing the driver to lose control and run the truck into the freeway crash barrier. It hits a broken section of the barrier at speed and is tipped on to its side, spilling its cargo and crew across the highway. Only four of the Mexicans survive the crash: the driver and three others, who were riding in the back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you possess a missile weapon, and wish to use it <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect163-1-foot" idref="sect163-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plan to use the siren to lure the guards away from the stairs to a place where you can ambush them. To your left is an open doorway and quickly you slip inside to avoid being seen. You find that it leads to an empty locker room, and here you remove the siren from your pack and set its volume switch to maximum before pushing it outside into the corridor. Then you take your missile weapon and use its barrel to reach out and trigger the siren.</p>
- <p>In the confines of the corridor the sound is deafening. Immediately the two guards come rushing forward to investigate, and, as they appear outside the locker room, you raise your gun and fire.<a id="sect163-1" idref="sect163-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The Detroit Lion opens his mouth but his dying scream is lost in the siren's blare. The Angelino survives your gunfire and leaps through the doorway to kick your weapon from your hands. Instinctively you reach for a close combat weapon as the burly Angelino unsheathes his hunting knife and attacks.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Purple Haze</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Get down Kate!' you shout, as you dive to the ground and roll for cover behind the abandoned pick-up. But before you make it, two shots ring out almost simultaneously, one from a rifle and the other from a pistol.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If the total is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If the total is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gun your roadster towards the battered wooden gates of the site and smash your way through them. The ground beyond is covered with loose stones and, to your horror, you feel the nose of your car sliding away to the right. The steel skeleton of an office block looms before you as you fight to correct your front wheel skid.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If your total is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Angelino scout skids his bike to a halt and lays it on its side. Then, while he feels he still has the advantage, he comes running at you, swinging his chain in one hand and brandishing a hunting knife in the other.</p>
- <combat><enemy>B-52</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>At the start of the third round of combat, you may add two points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, owing to the help you then receive from Kate in fighting this clansman.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For seventeen miles you follow the 137 south. The surface of the highway is so poor that were it not for the line of shattered telegraph poles that run parallel to the road you would find it impossible to tell the difference between the highway and the open ground. It takes you an hour to reach a junction where the remains of another highway, the 158, cuts east/west across your path. Its condition is marginally better and, for the first time since you left Stanton, you are able to increase your speed to thirty miles per hour as you head east towards Sterling City. From there you will make your way along Freeway 87 to San Angelo.</p>
- <p>It is nearly noon when you see a ramshackle town appear out of the heat haze that dances on the road ahead. Now the temperature is well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and, as you drive along its deserted main street, you think about stopping to rest for a while in the shade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you decide to stop at this town, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you choose not to stop but to continue driving to Sterling City, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you emerge from the caverns you are astounded to see that the Angelinos have been completely overwhelmed by this colony of cave dwellers. The few clansmen to have survived the ambush have been trussed up like turkeys and are being guarded by a circle of spear-wielding women. The rest of the colony are so busy stripping and searching the bodies of those they have killed that they fail to notice you and Kate, as you leave the entrance quietly and make your way back to the roadster. You admire their bravery but there is something about these people, something about their appearance and their silence, that unsettles you.</p>
- <p>You inspect the damage to the truck. Your fears are confirmed: you no longer have sufficient fuel to reach Kent. You siphon the tanks of the clansmen's bikes, and save what you can from the bottom of the two perforated fuel canisters, but you estimate that in total you have only enough to take you 120 miles.</p>
- <p>As you are leaving, you notice that the cave people are preparing a funeral pyre for those who were killed in the fighting. It strikes you as a very sensible and civilized way to dispose of the dead, and makes you think that perhaps your suspicions about these people were groundless after all. Your illusions about the cave people are soon shattered, however, when Kate points out that they are not burning the dead at all: they are cooking them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56"><link-text>Turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slow your roadster to a halt and, with your hand held to your forehead to shield your eyes from the glare of the evening sun, you try to discern the source of the dust cloud.</p>
- <p>'It's no good,' you say in frustration, 'I can't tell what's going down in that town.'</p>
- <p>'Me neither,' says Kate, 'but I've got a pretty good idea what's going on back there.'</p>
- <p>She points back along the highway at another dust cloud, which is fast approaching. You do not need binoculars to be able to tell that the dust is being stirred up by a pack of bikers that have come racing out of San Angelo.</p>
- <p>'I think it's time we were movin' on,' says Kate, uneasily.</p>
- <p>'I think you're right,' you reply, as, hurriedly, you reach for the ignition switch. 'Let's detour around this town and follow the river. We can pick up the highway again at Eldorado.'</p>
- <p>'OK,' she replies, 'but step on it Cal. Those bikes are movin' real fast.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect317"><link-text>Turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sniper fires as he turns and his bullet drills deep into your chest. You feel yourself lifted into the air, and the warm taste of blood gushes into your mouth. Then you hit the floor and the momentary pain gives way to a terrifying numbness that robs you of all sensation. In a moment, you see the sniper working another round into the chamber of his rifle. Then he points the muzzle at your head and a total darkness engulfs your vision.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here in Brogado.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scream with terror as you realize that you are falling face-first into an elevator shaft. In desperation, you throw out your arms to try to stop yourself from falling, and the sleeve of your leather jacket catches on the raised head of a bolt protruding from the wall. There is a violent jolt, and for a moment it feels as if you have been yanked into the air by your wrist. Then the cuff is torn away completely and you continue to fall into the darkness.</p>
- <p>Seconds later you land on the roof of the elevator with a numbing crash and instantly lose consciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rise at dawn and spend the morning servicing the engine of your roadster, while Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott take it in turns to act as lookout from the roof of a Baptist church, the tallest building still standing in Kent. It is two hours before noon when you hear a faint buzzing noise, high in the sky towards the northwest. You search the cloudless expanse and your hopes soar as you see Rickenbacker's motorized hang glider circling above the town. He comes down and makes a low pass, waving his arms excitedly as he flies directly over the roadster. Then he is gone, rising above the surrounding peaks and returning the way he came.</p>
- <p>An hour passes before Knott sights a cloud of dust on the eastern horizon. You are all gathered in the town, waiting expectantly for the convoy to arrive, but he cannot be sure that it is the convoy that is coming. At such a distance it could be a gang of marauding clansmen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your nerves stretched almost to breaking point, you lower the cover gently into position and whisper to Kate to continue along the tunnel.</p>
- <p>By feeling her way along the thick cables that festoon the walls of this service shaft, she is able to make progress in the dark. More than half an hour later you emerge into a wider section where a faint light seeps down from glass bricks embedded in the ceiling around a circular steel hatch. A ladder ascends to the hatch and Kate suggests that this one could be worth investigating. You agree, and when you lift up the heavy steel cover carefully and look out, she is proved right: the sight that greets you is the entrance gate to the Reagan Memorial Stadium.</p>
- <p>After waiting until there is little clan activity in the immediate area, you climb out of the shaft and make your way quickly into the ruins of the southern central sector of the San Angelo stronghold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to dodge the speeding arrow but it catches you in the side and pierces your rib cage. For a moment you feel nothing. Then a searing pain rips through your chest and a swirl of colour obliterates your vision. You crash to the ground and fight desperately for your life, but it is a fight you can no longer win.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at the entrance to the caverns of Sonora.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the cover afforded by the undercut banks of Lacy Creek you are able to creep to within twenty yards of the bridge unseen. The harsh, greasy smell of roasted coyote wafts over your hiding place as silently you watch the taller of the two clansmen fan the campfire with his hat, while his partner kneels down and carves himself a large slice of the blackened meat. He chews it without enthusiasm before finally spitting it out in disgust.</p>
- <p>'Goddamn dogmeat!' he growls. 'I ain't never gonna git used to it.'</p>
- <p>He gulps a mouthful of water from his canteen as he rises to his feet. Your pulse quickens as he turns and starts to walk straight towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you have a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect176-1-foot" idref="sect176-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets rip into the tyre rack and whistle past you on all sides as the clansman rushes your position. Calmly you stay hidden until you hear his gun stop in midburst, then you spring to your feet and fire at point-blank range, hitting him in the chest.<a id="sect176-1" idref="sect176-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He doubles up, falls forward and lands in a lifeless heap at your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Yet another shot rings out and another scream is heard in the street below. You have got to stop this sniper before he massacres your companions at his leisure, and purposefully you look to your weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or have insufficient ammunition, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With tyres screeching, you turn on to the bridge and gun your car across it at top speed. Beyond the span you find a secondary road that has barely survived the post-disaster years. A sign flashes past, identifying it as Road 1989, but you fail to see this number as you fight to avoid the boulders that lay strewn in your path.</p>
- <p>Kate has drawn her pistol and is firing over her shoulder at a biker, who is closing fast. A pair of belt-fed machine guns are mounted atop the headlamp of his motorcycle, and he fires them in devastating bursts whenever the roadster fills his sights.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A biker is closing fast. A pair of belt-fed machine guns are mounted atop the headlamp of his motorcycle</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <p>So concerted is the fire that you are both forced to cower in your armour-backed seats to avoid being hit. Then another sign appears on the road ahead, pointing to a winding dirt track that leads away to the left. It reads:</p>
- <signpost>TO THE CAVERNS OF SONORA</signpost>
- <p>You are desperate to avoid the machine gunning biker and so decide to take the track. At least its winding course will give him less opportunity to riddle the trunk with bullets.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24"><link-text>Turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment the clansman sees you draw your pistol he veers across to the left lane of the highway. You smile when you realize the purpose of his manoeuvre: he is trying to make it as difficult as he can for you to shoot at him with your right hand.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving and Shooting skill scores. Now decide how many rounds you wish to fire at the clansman (minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds), and add the number of rounds to your skills total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'At this rate we'll reach Interstate 10 in an hour,' you say, but Kate does not reply: exhaustion has got the better of her and she has drifted off into a deep sleep. Without her conversation to stimulate you, fatigue eats away at your concentration and gradually you lose interest in the road ahead. You fall asleep at the wheel and reawaken only when the roadster veers off the highway and crashes into a rocky spur.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the number you have picked is 0-7, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If it is 8-9, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect181-1-foot" idref="sect181-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step sideways into the corridor with your shotgun held at waist level. The guard to the left of the staircase sees you and tries to shout a warning but his words are lost in the boom of your gunfire.<a id="sect181-1" idref="sect181-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The force of the shot flings him against the wall, and as you swing the barrel towards his partner, you know only too well that you must make your second shot count just as effectively. But his partner's reactions prove razor-sharp, and as you focus on him you are shocked to find yourself staring into the muzzle of his machine pistol.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If your total score is 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If your total score is 16 or more, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull on the steering wheel and swerve heavily to the left in order to avoid the missile, but you cannot prevent it from hitting your car. The armoured tip penetrates the engine compartment, entering from below the wheel arch and exploding in the middle of the fuel injection system. In a split second, your roadster is transformed into a ball of flame: death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at the foot of Slaughter Mountain.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The derelict gas station shows signs of having been looted some time during the past few months. Its underground gasolene storage tank has been siphoned of fuel, and the contents of its workshop lie broken and scattered across the dusty floor. Carefully you sift through what little remains and uncover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crowbar (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Regulator</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Box of Matches</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tow Chain</typ> (ten-feet length)</li>
- <li>Hammer (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">To continue, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell Kate to follow you as you dive for cover among the rocks that border this section of the highway. Your speedy reactions save you from being seen by the pack of Angelinos as they race along the highway, heading south. You stay hidden until their lights have disappeared, then you resume your long walk back to Eldorado.</p>
- <p>Three hours later you reach the town and begin a systematic search of all the buildings. In the ruins of a repair shop you discover what you need: a <typ class="item">Welding Torch</typ> and a cylinder of <typ class="item">Oxyacetylene</typ>. You are dragging these items out of the building when suddenly, from the shadow of a doorway, a gruff voice barks an order: 'Stay where you are and put your hands up!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect339"><link-text>Turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets are slamming into the gantry from all sides but a combination of luck and speed saves you from being hit. At the far end is a covered staircase leading down to an internal thoroughfare, one of many that honeycomb the vast area below the stadium tiers. This wide corridor is empty at present, but the sound of running footsteps is growing louder with each passing second, and it will not be very long before the area is teeming with clansmen. Kate points to a service hatch, almost invisible against the dirt-encrusted wall, and suggests you hide there. You nod your agreement and help her to prise it open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive aside, but your reactions are not quick enough to save you from the cleaver's spinning blade. It slices through the arm of your jacket and lays open half an inch of flesh below your right bicep: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You grit your teeth against the pain as you try to stand, but before you are back on your feet, the clansman comes rushing across the kitchen with a knife in his hand. Instinctively you leap away from his first strike, and manage to kick the weapon from his hand when he stabs at you a second time. Angered by your moves, he leaps for your throat and tries to drag you to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rockblitz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the pain of your wounds, your reactions are still lightning fast. You beat the clansman to the draw and, in a fraction of a second, you save yourself from his murderous intentions.</p>
- <p>You are in too much pain to try to attempt a burial and, mindful of the time you have lost already, you make only a brief search of the bodies. You discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (containing four rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li>Machine Pistol (containing twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Enough pain killers for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Wearily you return to your roadster and begin the next stage of your journey to San Angelo. Less than a mile beyond the bridge you see a deserted stretch of Freeway 87. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms that you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a long and laborious search of all the stores in this part of Bakersfield, you discover absolutely nothing of any practical value. Having exhausted both your energy and your patience, and with dusk already giving way to darkness, you abandon your search and return to your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rotten timbers are easily torn away from the front door and in minutes you have gained access to the building. In the middle of the lobby you discover a stainless steel replica of an oil derrick, standing twelve feet high, on which there is an inscription that reveals the former owners of the block:</p>
- <signpost>THE LONE STAR OIL <ch.amp/> GAS COMPANY</signpost>
- <p>In order to emerge somewhere inside the perimeter wall, you must discover an exit on the north side of this building, so you set off immediately in that direction. Beyond the lobby area you can see a row of elevator doors, and two corridors disappearing to the left and right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to explore the right-hand corridor, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to search the left-hand corridor, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect a movement in the shadows barely a second before there is a bang and a muzzle flash, which illuminates a corner of the bar. You react by reflex, throwing yourself at the floor. The speed of your reaction saves you from a serious wound as a 9mm bullet clips your leg and embeds itself in the wall: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Seconds later, Haskell bursts into the bar and fires three shots into the corner. There is a loud groan followed almost immediately by the sound of a heavy body falling off a chair. He rushes to your side, and as soon as he is sure that you are not seriously injured, he goes to take a look at who he has shot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333"><link-text>Turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stepping back from the dead Angelino, you inadvertently trip over the barrel of his machine pistol. (If you decide to keep this weapon, you discover that its magazine contains twenty-four rounds of 9mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>Quickly you regain your balance and start to run towards the iron staircase, but you are only half-way up it when you see the door to the observation block begin to open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The biker stands up as he approaches the ramp. Then, as his machine takes to the air, he pulls back on the handlebars and throws his weight forward over the front wheel. Man and motorcycle soar through the sky, then make a perfect rear wheel landing at the edge of the freeway.</p>
- <p>Confident that you can match his feat of daring, you accelerate towards the pump house and brace yourself as the front wheels begin to rise. Unfortunately, the roof is not strong enough to support the weight of your car and it collapses before you are airborne. Horrified, you watch as the front of your roadster nosedives into the ditch, pitching the car end-over-end. Then a searing flash of white light engulfs your vision as the fuel tank ruptures and explodes.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself forward and only just avoid being hit by the arrow as it whistles within inches of your scalp. At that moment your pursuer roars up the track, closely followed by the other Angelino scouts whom you encountered at the bridge. You scream a warning to Kate and throw yourself down as a double burst of machine gun fire strafes the palisade. The bullets pass over your back and hit the archer in the chest, dropping him in a tangled heap on the threshold of the gateway.</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and rush forward to help Kate drag his body away, so that the gate can be closed. The other members of the settlement come to your aid, and, once the gate is secure, they point to the cave mouth and urge you to enter. You do not want to abandon your roadster to the Angelinos, but to stay here and attempt to fight would be suicidal. Reluctantly you leave the gate and follow them into the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate places her shots carefully in an effort to conserve ammunition. The effectiveness of her covering fire keeps the clansmen pinned down long enough for you to retrieve the spare tyre, jack and wheel brace from the trunk of the car.</p>
- <p>As you start work on changing the damaged front wheel, you see the clan scout leader riding down the opposite bank towards the river. Believing that you are now out of ammunition, he has decided that he will be the one to enact his clan's revenge on you for the killing of Mekong Mike. Howling curses, and whirling a heavy motorcycle chain above his shaved head, he rides his bike into the shallow river. He is half-way across when Kate takes aim and silences his screaming with a single shot to the heart. The sight of him crashing into the river stuns the remaining clansmen just long enough for you to complete your wheel change and jump back into the car.</p>
- <p>As you reach the top of the bank and speed away towards the distant highway, you glance over your shoulder to see the Angelino scouts retrieving their leader's body from the fetid waters of the South Concho River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can regain control of the car, it slams broadside against a steel pillar and comes to an abrupt halt. The reinforced passenger door withstands much of the impact, but the sudden jolt leaves you concussed and badly bruised (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Wincing from the pain of your injuries, you try to keep as still as possible as the pack of clansmen, fifty riders strong, roars past the site. Soon they have gone and, despite your pain, your spirits are raised by the thought that there will now be at least fifty less of Mad Dog's men to face when you reach San Angelo.</p>
- <p>After satisfying yourself that the damage to your roadster is superficial, you cast your eyes around the derelict construction site.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to search the site, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to leave and continue your journey to San Angelo, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moments after you reach the safety of the street, you turn to see the roof of the library collapse with a loud, splintering crack. Clouds of sparks whirl into the night, carried upward by the strong, gusting wind. Silently you look at Kate's smoke-blackened face, and then at the blazing library, and you realize just how lucky you both are to have got out of that inferno alive.</p>
- <p>By the time you have recovered fully from your ordeal and returned to your roadster, the storm has blown itself out. The eastern sky is lightening as dawn approaches and you decide to leave Bakersfield now, before the sun rises and the temperature becomes unbearable. Beyond the town, the freeway climbs steadily towards a distant line of mountains that shimmer on the horizon. You keep your speed as low as possible and cover forty miles with your fuel gauge nudging the zero mark. Then the silhouette of Fort Stockton appears on the road ahead and your hopes of finding some gas are rekindled.</p>
- <p>The first thing you see upon entering the town is a gas station. Like everything else, the station appears deserted, but there is something about this building that makes your skin prickle with presentiment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect197-1-foot" idref="sect197-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>In what is a split-second reaction, you throw yourself to the ground as the guard opens fire: it is a move that saves your life. Soft-nosed bullets whistle past your head and ricochet off the walls as you struggle to bring your gun to bear once more. You squeeze off a snap shot and immediately the machine gun fire ceases as the guard, mortally wounded, keels over backwards and slumps to the ground.<a id="sect197-1" idref="sect197-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Now you are back on your feet and rushing forwards, but as you reach the iron staircase and begin to climb, you see the observation room door start to swing open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the grenade, but it glances off the edge of an auto wreck and is deflected away from the ammunition chest. It explodes with a brilliant white flash that illuminates the barricade and draws the clansmen's attention to your position. Frantically you run for the safety of the yucca forest, but before you have taken a dozen steps, you are cut down by a long burst of automatic fire.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here at the Fabens barricade.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously the clansman glances over his shoulder as you close in for the kill. His red-rimmed eyes stare fearfully from his dusty face as he struggles to coax more power from his failing machine. Then, in desperation, he veers off the highway and takes to the open ground. You are determined not to let the clansman escape, and so you pull the steering wheel hard over to the left and pursue him as he guns his bike cross-country towards Freeway 87.</p>
- <p>An empty concrete drainage ditch runs parallel to the freeway, wide enough to deter the biker from attempting to ride straight across it. He veers away, and you chase him along its edge for nearly half a mile before finally he plucks up enough courage to try to get across. Ahead, a derelict pump house appears, straddling the ditch, its angular roof offering itself as a ramp that could be used to launch a jump on to the freeway. The clansman takes one last look at you over his shoulder and then, with a scream of fearful exhilaration, he winds back the throttle and points his bike at the pump house roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to attempt to follow the clansman across the ditch, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you decide to steer your roadster away from the pump house, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Six black-clad bikers are riding along Interstate 10 towards the rest stop. Affixed to the rear of their saddles are long, whiplash aerials, which are topped with black pennons that bear a lion's head symbol. You stare at these small black flags and a tingle runs down your spine: it is the emblem of the Detroit Lions clan.</p>
- <p>The bikers catch sight of your roadster and bring their machines to a halt a hundred yards from the rest stop. Then all six spread out and, using the rocks and boulders that litter the landscape, they make their way forward slowly. Sergeant Haskell orders Gunter and Knott to take cover and open fire at the advancing clansmen; they must not be allowed to capture or destroy the fuel tank.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The bikers spread out and make their way slowly towards you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="637" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="637" />
- </illustration>
- <p>From behind an old gas pump you watch as two of the Lions start to edge their way around the service area. They are trying to circle around the rest stop and launch an attack from the rear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you possess a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or have insufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the other side of the hatch you discover an electrical cable duct that is just large enough to accommodate both of you in some discomfort. You enter first, then Kate squeezes in, closing the hatch behind her. It is now pitch black and very claustrophobic. Outside you can hear the angry screams and pounding feet of the clansmen as determinedly they try to track you down. The news of Mekong Mike's death has been broken to the Angelinos and you have heard more than one of them vow that they will kill you when they find you. The only escape route open to you now is to descend the rusty rungs of the iron service ladder on which you stand.</p>
- <p>Forty rungs later you reach the bottom of the shaft. You can feel the walls of a tunnel leading away to your right, but it is too dark for you to see where it leads or what it contains.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you possess a <typ class="item">Box of Matches</typ> or a <typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ>, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you do not possess either of these items, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before the spider is brushed aside, it bites into your skin and injects its toxin. Almost immediately you are gripped by a terrible pain that courses up your arm and radiates across your chest. Frantically Kate searches through your Medi-kit for an anti-toxin, as the effects of the Fiddleback's bite drag you to your knees in agony.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it the number of Medi-kit units that you possess currently.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total score is now 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have fallen into the shaft of a private elevator that was once used to service the executive penthouse suites of the Lone Star Oil <ch.amp/> Gas Company. The elevator itself is located on the sub-basement level, three floors below where you have fallen in, and it is upon its roof that you finally crash to your doom.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here in San Angelo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A long and laborious search of all the stores in the same block as the food mart yields the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Water Canteen (empty)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Camera</typ></li>
- <li>Enough antiseptic solution for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Microscope</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Scissors</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Gold Wristwatch</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these items, remember to amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Dusk is beginning to give way to darkness and you are anxious to return to the roadster before the evening light fades completely. Having satisfied yourself that you have overlooked nothing of value, you leave the block and return to your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond Sterling City the freeway follows a wide, dust-filled gully that was once the North Concho River. You are staring at this dead watercourse, trying to imagine what the river must have looked like before 'The Day', when a road sign flashes past. You stop the car and turn back to read it. It says:</p>
- <signpost>BROOME<ch.emdash/>2 MILES</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scout leader gives a loud, malicious laugh as he steers his bike towards the front of your roadster. As he rides past, he leans over and lashes out at your unprotected back with his chain.</p>
- <p>Add together your Perception and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If your total is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If your total is 6-8, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'What exactly you offerin' in return for a free ride and a ringside seat, eh?' replies the clansman.</p>
- <p>Slowly you unshoulder your Backpack and flip open the buckles. 'Choose,' you say, inviting him to look at the items you are carrying. Roughly he pulls the pack from your hands and tips the contents on to the floor of the truck.</p>
- <p>'I'll take these two,' he says. 'You can keep the rest o' the junk.'</p>
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those items which you have noted in the second and third sections of your Backpack Items list. These are the items chosen by the clansman in return for free passage into the stadium. If you possess less than two Backpack Items, you must erase either two Medi-kit units or one close combat weapon instead.</p>
- <p>With a smile on his face, the clansman pockets your bribe and returns to the cab. He restarts the truck but shortly it stops once again. He has drawn up alongside three other trucks in a section of the stadium that has been turned into a pits area. You leave the truck and slip away through the crowds of clan mechanics and riders towards an empty section of the enclosure.</p>
- <p>From a position high among the tiers, you look down at the rows of empty seats that encircle the dusty arena and observe the preparations taking place around the perimeter track. This stadium once hosted international sporting events, many of which were televised and beamed live around the world. Now it plays host to a sporting event of a very different kind. The Angelinos have challenged the Lions to put forward four of their best riders for a twenty-lap motorcycle race around the arena. The track itself reminds you of an old film that you saw when you were a child, a film about the wild chariot races that took place in Ancient Rome. Today's event is meant to be a friendly challenge to celebrate the signing of their alliance, but with clan honour at stake the race will undoubtedly be fought out in deadly earnest.</p>
- <p>Facing you, on the far side of the stadium, is the glass-fronted observation block that was once used by television and radio commentators. Your curiosity is aroused by it when you notice that the door to the block is heavily guarded. Fixedly you stare at its full-length windows and count five occupants: four clansmen and one blonde-haired girl. You cannot see her face clearly, but you know that she is Kate Norton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your pulse racing, you raise the binoculars to your eyes and focus on the approaching bikers. They ride machines bedecked with a strange symbol: a priest or some other holy man, dressed in flowing white robes, with a halo above his head. It looks a curiously pious symbol for a clan to adopt, until you remember that before 'The Day', the name of the professional football team based in New Orleans was 'the Saints'. Suddenly you realize that this pack of riders, some 400-500 strong, are the New Orleans clan that Mad Dog Michigan sent for. It would be disastrous for the convoy to run head-on into a group of this size, and you hurry back to the colony as quickly as you can to break the bad news.</p>
- <p>With the New Orleans clan approaching from the north, a large Mexican clan crossing the border to the south, and the threat of a Maverick ambush to the west, the prospects of reaching El Paso unscathed now look decidedly unpromising. With no time to discuss the situation at length, the convoy reverts to the original plan: to stay on Interstate 10 and approach El Paso from the west. It is the shortest, most direct route, even though there is a very real chance of falling prey to a Maverick ambush.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you spin the wheel to the left and brace yourself as the roadster slews sideways across the wreckage-strewn highway. Before it comes to a halt, there is a sudden and violent jolt that sets the car spinning like a top in the opposite direction. The panel truck has clipped the rear fender and the force of the impact leaves you dazed and gasping for breath: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The sight of the convoy fast disappearing along the freeway is all that is needed to bring you rapidly to your senses. You turn the wheel and pump the gas pedal, but the engine has stalled and the car does not respond. Instantly, you reach for the ignition to bring the car back to life before the Mavericks close in and put an end to yours.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current Driving and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If your total is now 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If it is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a watchful eye on the ridge as you wait for the convoy to close the gap. Then, when the vehicles are once again visible in your driving mirror, you continue along the freeway. Anxiously, you expect an ambush to take place at any time, but, despite your fears, it does not materialize.</p>
- <p>At length the stores and houses of Van Horn appear on the road ahead. The town looks deserted but you decide to take no chances. You bring the convoy to a halt within a mile of the town limits and, accompanied by Sergeant Haskell, you leave your roadster and enter on foot to check that it is safe for the convoy to pass through.</p>
- <p>The tumbledown buildings are deathly quiet as you walk along the main street of Van Horn, and you notice nothing out of the ordinary until you reach a bar near the centre of the town. A motorcycle is parked beside the entrance, its fuel tank emblazoned with the ace of spades emblem of the Mavericks clan. You decide to search the bar and, if possible, try to capture and question the bike's owner. Haskell suggests that it would be a good idea if one of you were to enter by the rear door and you nod your agreement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to enter the bar from the rear, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you choose to enter the bar through the front door, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expectantly you keep an eye on your rear-view mirror as you power your roadster along the rock-strewn asphalt of Highway 277. You are convinced that the Angelinos will soon be on your tail, yet you have covered fifteen miles and still there is nothing to indicate that you are being pursued. You are beginning to relax when Kate points to a small town in the distance. It is built around a bridge that crosses a stream of shallow black water that was once known as the South Concho River. Near the middle of this town, on the highway approach to the bridge, is a rising cloud of dust.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch behind the rack and fumble for a close combat weapon as the clansman's bullets pepper your position. Then you see Kate running towards you with a machine pistol in her hands. She opens fire at the clansman, but he returns fire and one of his bullets smashes the barrel of Kate's gun, rendering it useless. In the next instant he leaps on to the rack but, before he brings his weapon to bear, you lash out and smash his knee with the edge of your hand. He drops his gun and falls forward, landing on top of you with a jolt that leaves you breathless.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The clansman drops his gun and falls forward.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="627" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="627" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Kalashnikov</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade combat and must fight the clansman to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once across the North Concho River you begin your journey to San Angelo in earnest. Less than a mile beyond the bridge you reach a deserted stretch of Freeway 87. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms your suspicions: you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman's footsteps seem unbearably loud as you wait for the moment to launch your ambush. You check that your G-12 is 'safety off' and set to burst fire then, as the footsteps halt, you rise up from your hiding place and open fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If your total score is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor is walled from floor to ceiling with exotic hardwood panels that give off a rich, earthy aroma. Innumerable doors, all identical and all giving access to what were once executive offices, march past on either side, while you stride along with your eyes focused on the distance, searching the gloom for something that resembles an exit.</p>
- <p>The corridor turns left and, after a short distance, left again, and you find yourself faced by a door that is different to all the others. It is fitted flush to the wall and it has no handle or sign to indicate where it leads. You push against it but it does not open, and you can hear nothing when you place your ear to its surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to try to barge open the door, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you decide to abandon your search in this direction and return to the lobby, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to find Kate sitting on the hood of the roadster, sifting through a box of items she has found. She, too, has been unable to find any fuel, but she has salvaged enough food for a decent evening meal.</p>
- <p>'I even found some wine from your home state,' she says, proudly holding out a bottle of Californian dry white for your inspection.</p>
- <p>'That's great,' you reply, with a smile. 'Now all we need is a corkscrew!'</p>
- <p>As night draws in and the temperature falls, a strong wind arises that whips along the freeway, howling like an angry ghost. You sense that it is the prelude to a storm and you suggest to Kate that you look for somewhere to shelter. An old brick-built library standing close by seems like a good bet: the walls are strong and it still has a roof, which is more than can be said for over ninety per cent of the Bakersfield buildings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach down into the passenger foot-well and retrieve your rifle. Fortunately you know that the weapon is loaded and all you have to do is thumb back the safety catch to make it ready to fire. The moment the clansman sees you rest the barrel on the door, he veers across to the left lane of the highway as quickly as he can. You smile as you realize the purpose of this manoeuvre: he is trying to increase his chances of survival by making it as difficult as he can for you to shoot at him with your right hand.</p>
- <p>Keeping the roadster in a straight line, and the sheer force of the rushing wind whipping around the end of the rifle's barrel, make it impossible for you to take aim. You try to get as near to your enemy as you can before squeezing the trigger, but just as you are about to fire, you hit a pot-hole and lose your grip.</p>
- <p>Add your Stealth skill score to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If your total score is 32 or less, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If your total score is 33 or more, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to wake Kate but she is in a deep sleep and does not respond immediately. When at last you succeed in rousing her it is too late to attempt a quick getaway by car.</p>
- <p>You watch tensely as the bikers ride into the town. You give a silent prayer that they will pass through Eldorado without stopping, but to no avail. They bring their machines to a halt in the middle of the town and begin a search of the surrounding ruins. 'They mustn't find us,' you whisper, as you look around the workshop for somewhere to hide. 'If they do we're as good as dead.'</p>
- <p>The sound of footsteps echoes through the building as you help Kate to conceal herself in an old stationery cupboard. Once she is well hidden, you slip inside an adjoining storage room that is filled from floor to ceiling with musty mohair blankets. Minutes later, you hear a clansman walk into the workshop. You hold your breath and listen to his every move, but your concentration is suddenly broken when you feel something crawling up the back of your left hand.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If your total score is 22 or less, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If your total is 23 or more, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The time Sergeant Haskell used to observe the barricade was well spent. He noticed that the Mexican clansmen have positioned an anti-tank weapon behind it, which doubtless they will bring into action if it is needed. Littered around it are several dozen boxes of shells. If one of those boxes were to explode, it would set off the others and destroy most of the central section of the barricade. Haskell has an incendiary grenade which would do the job, but in order to make sure that it landed in the correct place<ch.emdash/>in one of the boxes of ammunition<ch.emdash/>one of you would have to go to the barricade and place it there. Neither of you are keen to volunteer for this mission, so you decide to settle it on the toss of a coin. Sergeant Haskell calls and, unfortunately, you lose.</p>
- <p>Haskell gives you the incendiary grenade and you hand him your signal flare. Then, when the number of Mexican clansmen on guard are at their fewest, you leave the cover of the yucca forest and creep towards the barricade.</p>
- <p>Ten yards from the wall of cars you see an opportunity to throw your grenade into an open ammunition chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If your total score is 6-7, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It occurs to you that the colony may still be close enough for radio contact. As it may be the last chance you will get to speak to them before your rendezvous at Kent one week from now, you decide to give it a try. You invert the handset of your CB and key in the frequency that Pop Ewell monitors aboard the school bus. But, for some unknown reason, the frequency is saturated with static and you are unable to transmit. You search for a clear channel and, by chance, you lock on to part of a two-way conversation:</p>
- <p>'OK Gold<ch.ellips/> Sit tight and quit y'bellyaching<ch.ellips/> I'm sending some o' my men back to cover it. You just put a tail on 'em <ch.ellips/> keep 'em in sight. We'll let 'em run a while and then hit 'em when they reach the mountains. D'you copy<ch.ellips/> over?'</p>
- <p>There is a loud burst of static, then a voice replies:</p>
- <p>'I copy <ch.ellips/> Gold out.'</p>
- <p>The channel falls silent and you are left staring at the handset, trying to make some sense of what you have just overheard. Then you hear quite a different sound, a sound that sends a shiver of fear coursing down your spine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the thin saw-cord through the closed hasp of the padlock and work it back and forth. You have made barely a dozen strokes when the metal saw-cord snaps with a loud ping (erase this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you possess an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ> and wish to use it to blow open the door, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you wish to abandon your attempt to gain entry to the building, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman screams like a maniac as he unsheathes his bowie knife. He is barely five feet away when coolly you raise your gun, point it at his bullet-laden chest, and squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect223-1-foot" idref="sect223-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you raise your gun and press the muzzle against the centre of the door as the muffled footsteps come closer and closer. They stop, and for a few agonizing seconds all you can hear is the relentless pounding of your heart. You are very tense and, when you see the handle start to turn, you snatch the trigger and blast a hole clean through the door.<a id="sect223-1" idref="sect223-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>In the cramped confines of the store room your gunfire is deafening. Yet above its roar you hear the scream of a clansman as he catches the blast full in the chest. You get ready to fire again, in case he was not searching alone, but when you kick open the door and spring out, you find only one Angelino, and he is lying dead in the middle of the workshop floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336"><link-text>Turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you drive towards the bridge, fearful yet curious to know what you may find there. You are less than 400 yards away when you see the source of the smoke: a campfire, over which two clansmen are busily cooking the stringy torso of a coyote. They hear your engine noise and turn their bearded faces to stare in your direction. Suddenly, as if they had received an electric shock, they leap to their feet and start running towards their motorcycles, which are parked at the entrance to the bridge. One of them unsheathes an automatic rifle from the saddle of his bike, whilst the other tries frantically to kick his machine into life.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>One of the clansmen unsheathes an automatic rifle whilst the other tries frantically to kick his machine into life.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="594" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="594" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You know that you must act immediately if you are to prevent them from getting away, so you point your vehicle directly at their position and stamp your foot down on the accelerator. Fifty yards from the bridge, with the hot wind screaming past your face, the armed clansman drops to one knee and takes aim at your windshield.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If your total score is 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your left you notice the open doorway of an empty locker room and quickly you slip inside to avoid being seen by the two guards. In order to reach the observation room door you will have to deal with these guards as quickly and efficiently as possible. A glance into the corridor establishes their position before you act.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you possess a missile weapon and sufficient ammunition for two rounds of fire, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not possess enough ammunition for two rounds of fire, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unable to crack the code, reluctantly you abandon the storage tank and content yourself with siphoning what you can from the fuel tanks of the dead clansmen's motorcycles. Unfortunately, your efforts net you barely enough gasolene to reach Brogado<ch.emdash/>the next town on the freeway. As you pull away slowly from the service area you are not the only one who is praying that you will find some fuel in Brogado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'What are you carryin' in that bag o' yours?' says the short clansman, pointing his stubby finger at your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Slowly you take off your pack and flip open the buckles. 'What do you want?' you say, inviting them to look at the items you are carrying. Roughly, the clansman pulls the pack from your hands and tips the contents on to the ground.</p>
- <p>'I'll take these two,' he says.</p>
- <p>'And I'll have these,' says his partner. 'You can keep the rest o' the junk.'</p>
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those items which you have noted in the first four sections of your Backpack Items list. These are the items chosen by the two clansmen in return for their help in getting you into the stadium. If you possess less than four Backpack Items, you must make up the difference by erasing Medi-kit units instead.</p>
- <p>With broad smiles on their faces the two clansmen pocket your bribe. 'You jus' bought yourself a grandstand seat, fella,' says the taller of the two as, once again, you climb the pile of rubble. This time you are accompanied by the two clansmen who help you over the wall and then return to the avenue, chuckling and congratulating each other on their good fortune.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you draw a close combat weapon and steady yourself for the assault. Like a tiger you leap through the open door and scan the darkened room. A figure is crouched at the window, and, as he turns, you run forward, raising your hand to strike.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If your total is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If your total is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick open your pouch and give Kate your last few remaining bullets before you start to change the damaged front wheel. Quickly she reloads her pistol as the clan scout leader, believing that you are both out of ammunition, comes riding across the river, howling curses and whirling a heavy motorcycle chain in his left hand. The moment her gun is ready, she takes aim and fires at the foul-mouthed Angelino.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If the number is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drive away from the construction site and pass between the shattered stores and houses of Broome with your nerves on edge, half-expecting to run into a clan patrol or fall prey to an ambush. Yet your departure passes without incident and soon you find yourself back on the open freeway heading southeast to San Angelo. You are hungry, and during your drive you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you do your best to staunch the bleeding, Haskell continues to question the Maverick. Finally, on the brink of death, the clansman changes his mind and begins to speak. He says that he is a Maverick outrider, a scout, one of a large group sent here to ambush the Big Spring colony. While drunk, he fell off his bike and broke his leg. Unable to ride, his fellow scouts left him here with the promise that he would be collected when they returned. His group are fighting a Mexican clan near Sierra Blanca. He says that the Mexicans are trying to steal their supplies.</p>
- <p>Haskell asks him about Mad Dog Michigan, but he refuses to answer. A trickle of blood escapes from his lips and, with his dying breath, he says: 'Mad Dog'll make sure you never get through <ch.ellips/>'</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With armed clansmen less than fifty yards away, you dare spend only a minute searching the truck for useful items. In the brief time that you allow yourself, you discover the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough medical supplies for six Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Fire Axe (3)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">CB Radio</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Foil Blanket</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">To leave the fire station, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your hand reaches out to push open one of the doors you hear a faint sound, like a human cough, coming from the kitchen beyond. Instantly you freeze in your tracks and reach automatically for a missile weapon. As you ease off the safety catch, you contemplate your next move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you decide to kick open the door and rush into the kitchen, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you decide instead to shout, 'Come outta there with your hands up!', <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crash brings the car to an abrupt halt and you are brought back to full consciousness when your chest is slammed by the hub of your steering wheel: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Kate is saved from serious injury by her seat belt harness, which she had fastened before she fell asleep. The bone-breaking jolt of the crash has awoken her and, disorientated and bleary-eyed, she asks why you have stopped.</p>
- <p>'We ran out of road,' you say, sheepishly, as you stagger out of the driving seat and go to inspect the damage. Your heart sinks when you discover that the front chassis, the frame on which the wheels and engine are mounted, is badly bent out of shape. To repair this damage you will need to cut and re-weld the buckled frame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you possess a <typ class="item">Welding Torch</typ> and <typ class="item">Oxyacetylene</typ>, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you do not possess both these items, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire hits the Maverick in the midriff, forcing him to his knees. His first shot misses you, and through clenched teeth he spits out a curse as he struggles to raise his pistol for a second attempt. He is on the brink of death, and rather than waste precious ammunition, you choose not to fire again. It proves to be a fatal mistake.</p>
- <p>His pistol is not a standard factory model; it is a weapon that has been customized to fire in fully-automatic mode. With his last ounce of strength he thumbs the selector to auto, and, as he falls forward, he empties the fourteen-round magazine in your direction. Sharp, stinging cores of pain erupt in a line across your chest as the 9mm bullets find their mark. The pain is unbearable, and seems to fill your entire body, but it soon gives way to a numbness that robs you of all sensation. Within a space of a few seconds you slip from consciousness and into a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the grenade from your Backpack and tie it to the padlock with strips of cloth torn from an oily rag that you find on the ground nearby. Then you set the timer for ten seconds, pull the pin and take cover inside the gas station.</p>
- <p>Precisely ten seconds later, the grenade explodes with a deafening bang.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If the number you have picked is 0-5, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If it is 6-9, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate emerges from her hiding place and helps you search the dead clansman's body. Apart from his pistol and a quantity of 9mm ammunition, which Kate chooses to keep, you discover that he was carrying the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li>Bandages and Antiseptics (enough for two Medi-kit units)</li>
- <li>Hunting Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ></li>
- <li>Three rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Bolt Cutters</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you keep any of these items, be sure to amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>As soon as you have hidden his body beneath a heap of blankets, you gather up your equipment and leave the workshop before his disappearance is noticed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without illumination progress is painfully slow, and gradually the fear that you are becoming hopelessly lost saps your confidence. After a short while, you see a glimmer of light shining through a crack in the ceiling. It is very faint, but it is sufficient for you to be able to discern the outline of a ladder ascending towards it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to climb the ladder and investigate the source of the light, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to ignore the ladder and the crack of light, and continue along the darkened service shaft, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you reach the street, Kate and the others are standing in a circle around Gunter, staring at his inert body. You reach for your Medi-kit, but Sergeant Haskell looks up and shakes his head, and you leave the pouch unbuttoned.</p>
- <p>Without speaking, the sergeant and Knott take Gunter's body away for burial and you and Kate busy yourselves by searching the station wagon. This vehicle belonged to the sniper, and inside you discover the following items, which he looted from the store:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough medicines and dressings for six Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Enough tinned food for eight Meals</li>
- <li>Enough water for three Drinks</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You are able to siphon two gallons of fuel from the gas tank, enough to propel your roadster across the remaining thirty miles to Kent. As soon as the two marines return from their sad duty, you load up and take off along the freeway, heading west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself against the hot earth and pray that the clansman will stop before he reaches you, but when he is less than six feet away he catches a glimpse of your shoulders and automatically he reaches for his pistol. You sense something is wrong and you look up to see his sneering face. You are galvanized into action: with a superhuman effort you leap from the river bed and drag the clansman, screaming, to the ground before he is able to cock his pistol. A blow to the wrist disarms him, sending his gun skittering across the rocks, but he recovers quickly and rearms himself with a dagger drawn from his boot.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ray-Ban</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of your attack, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you win and the fight takes three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly, you let your gun slip to the ground as the muzzle of a rifle emerges from the darkened doorway.</p>
- <p>'You too, honey,' says the disembodied voice, and Kate obeys, tossing her machine pistol out of the car so that it lands deliberately near your feet.</p>
- <p>'Don't even think about it,' says another voice, away to your right.</p>
- <p>From behind a wrecked auto steps a tall, muscular man, dressed in green army fatigues. His blond hair is cropped close to his head and his eyes are hidden behind a pair of dark sunglasses. Pistol in hand, he walks slowly towards you, then stops at the entrance to the pay booth. Two more men in uniform emerge from the doorway<ch.emdash/>the rifleman and one other<ch.emdash/>armed with a sawn-off shotgun.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>From behind a wrecked auto steps a tall, muscular man, dressed in green army fatigues. </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="628" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="628" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'They don't look like clan punks, Sarge,' says the rifleman.</p>
- <p>'We're not,' interrupts Kate. 'We're running from the clans.'</p>
- <p>Bemused, the blond-haired man scratches his chin and turns to say something quietly to his two companions. It is then that you notice the faded sergeant stripes and the circular globe-of-the-world emblem that adorn his sleeve. Instantly you recognize the latter: it is the emblem of the World Defence League. At length, he turns to face you once more and says, in a friendlier tone, 'I think you two had better tell us your story.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only way you can think of getting past the two guards is by luring them away from the stairs and launching a surprise attack, so you draw a close combat weapon and start to scream for help. Immediately the two guards come rushing forward to investigate your cries. As they appear outside the locker room, you leap out and strike the first man a heavy blow to the throat. The Detroit Lion opens his mouth to scream but nothing comes. Mortally wounded, he falls to his knees and is pushed aside by his Angelino partner as he tries desperately to fell you with the stock of his machine pistol. You dodge the blow and manage to force the weapon out of his hands. As it clatters to the floor, you leap forward and wrestle the guard to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Purple Haze</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and surprise of your attack, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your driving skill and swift reflexes enable you to regain control of the roadster. With barely inches to spare, you steer it away from the service doors and swing it around to a halt alongside the service bay. Immediately, you cut the engine and try to keep as still as possible as the pack of clansmen, fifty riders strong, roar past the lot. Soon they have gone and your spirits are raised by the thought that there will now be at least fifty less of Mad Dog's men to face when you reach San Angelo.</p>
- <p>After satisfying yourself that the clansmen have gone, you cast your eyes around the derelict car lot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to search the lot, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to leave and continue your journey to San Angelo, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the grenade and it lands neatly in the centre of the ammunition chest. Without waiting for it to explode, you turn and sprint for the safety of the yucca forest. As you are running from the barricade, a clansman catches sight of you and opens fire with his machine pistol. Bullets kick up the dirt around your feet, but you manage to reach cover without sustaining any wounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect245-1-foot" idref="sect245-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jab the barrel of your gun into the clansman's ribs and squeeze the trigger. At point blank range the effect is awesome; he is torn away from Kate and spun around like a top.<a id="sect245-1" idref="sect245-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His whirling dance of death finally comes to a halt when he hits the wall of the alley in which you are standing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76"><link-text>Turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect246-1-foot" idref="sect246-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>While he was firing, unbeknown to you, the clansman moved forward and he is now lying flat on his stomach behind the rear wheel of his motorcycle. So when you return fire it is aimed at the wrong place and it rattles harmlessly off the iron bridge support where you first saw him take cover.<a id="sect246-1" idref="sect246-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Before you realize your error, he opens up once again and sweeps the gully with a long burst of automatic fire. Pain lances your forearm and shoulder as you stop two of his twenty high-velocity bullets.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance 0 equals 10) and add 1 point. The total is equivalent to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you must lose as a result of your wounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you have survived the shooting, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to dodge behind the stalagmites to avoid the clansman's fire, but your reflexes are dulled by fatigue and your movements are uncertain. A line of bullets punctures your chest and the taste of blood fills your mouth. As you fall to the ground, strangely you feel no pain, only an irresistible desire to sleep.</p>
- <p>Moments later the clansman falls victim to Kate's pistol, but it is a shot you do not hear, for you have already slipped into the timeless embrace of death.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here in the caverns of Sonora.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The surly clansman clutches at his wounds, curses, then falls dead at your feet. Judging from the long-horned skull painted on the back of his leather vest, you have just laid to rest your first Angelino. On the floor close by, you find his weapons and equipment: a Machine Pistol (containing eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition), a Knife (2), and a Backpack, which holds the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Small Blanket</typ></li>
- <li>Enough bandages, sulfonamides, and antiseptics for three Medi-kit units</li>
- </ul>
- <p>In addition to these items, a search of the kitchen also reveals the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Meat Cleaver (3)</li>
- <li>Bread Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Enough canned food for five Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of the items in either list, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the kitchen, you hide the clansman's body in an empty refrigerator. Then you hurry through the fire escape door and make your way up a flight of rusty steps that leads to a service alley at the rear of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within ten minutes of escaping from the Angelinos, you are back on Highway 277 and heading south. Even so, you keep your foot firmly on the gas pedal until the South Concho River has disappeared from your rear-view mirror. Ahead, the highway crosses an especially bleak and barren landscape, seemingly devoid of even the hardiest flora and fauna. It looks more like a moonscape than a landscape, and were it not for the setting sun and the welcome cool of dusk, you could easily believe that somehow you had been transported to the surface of another world.</p>
- <p>It is almost dark when the outline of a town appears on the horizon, its shattered buildings thrown into relief by the ashen moonlight. A battered sign reflects the glare of your headlights and announces your approach to the town of Eldorado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132"><link-text>Turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cloud of fearful anticipation hangs over the convoy as it passes through Van Horn and begins the journey to Sierra Blanca. You feel especially vulnerable as the freeway approaches the narrow mountain pass between Devil Ridge and Slaughter Mountain. Even the names of these landmarks serve to increase your dread of what could happen there.</p>
- <p>You are a little over five miles from Van Horn when you hear gunfire in the distance, and see a pall of black smoke rising into the cloudless sky. At its base, the buildings of a tiny town called Allamore are feeding the flames, and in the pass beyond this burning town, a gun battle is raging between the Mavericks and a group of invading Mexican clansmen. You assess the situation and decide that the best hope for the convoy lies in speed and surprise. If you can drive straight through this battle zone while both sides are busy shooting at each other, the convoy will be long gone before either side can redirect all its firepower.</p>
- <p>With trepidation, the colony agrees to your plan and the convoy is drawn up into its break-out formation, with Pete Tyler's tow truck leading the way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you fight to regain control of your roadster, you glimpse in your rear-view mirror your rifle hitting the road and disintegrating on impact (erase this gun from your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>). The biker throws back his head and laughs as he veers off the highway and takes to the open ground. Angered by the loss of your weapon, but still determined not to let the clansman escape, you pull the steering wheel hard over to the left and pursue him as he guns his bike cross-country towards Freeway 87.</p>
- <p>An empty concrete drainage ditch runs parallel to the freeway, wide enough to deter the biker from attempting to ride straight across. At the last minute, he veers away and you chase him along its edge for nearly half a mile before finally he plucks up enough courage to try to get across. Ahead, a derelict pump house appears, straddling the ditch, its angular roof offering itself as a ramp that could be used to launch a jump on to the freeway. The clansman takes one last look at you over his shoulder and then, with a scream of fearful exhilaration, he winds back the throttle and points his bike at the pump house roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to attempt to follow the clansman across the ditch, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you decide to steer your roadster away from the pump house, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes an hour to refuel the convoy vehicles and prepare for the next stage of your journey. You are to take over as scout now that the colony is about to push deeper into the mountains. The increasing altitude and the unpredictable thermal air currents here make it too dangerous for Rickenbacker to continue in his role as air scout.</p>
- <p>Five miles out from Kent, you cross a dry watercourse once known as the Salt Draw and begin a slow climb into the Apache mountains. To your left you can see a high ridge, known locally as the Black Peak, and it is here that you sight something that makes you suspicious. A glint of sunlight is reflecting repeatedly at a point near the crest of this ridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to stop your roadster and investigate these reflections, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you choose to ignore them and continue along the freeway, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you search along the dashboard, the seats, and the foot-wells, but you find nothing that even vaguely resembles an ignition key. However, you do uncover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Shotgun (with two rounds of 12-gauge ammunition)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen {with sufficient water for two Drinks)</li>
- <li>Antiseptic Dressings (enough for one Medi-kit unit)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>As you are unable to start the jeep, you are forced to abandon it and take cover, once more, amongst the ruins. You perch yourself behind a wrecked car that is balancing on top of the wall and cast your eyes across to the far side of the killing zone.</p>
- <p>One building stands out from all the others: it is the ruins of a fire station. There is still no sign of the clansmen, so together you agree to make a dash for that building. You tell Kate that, when she is running, she should focus all her thoughts and efforts on getting inside the place as quickly as possible. If anything happens, on no account should she stop for you.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score and your Stealth skill score. (Note: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If your total is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If your total is 11-16, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If your total is 17 or more, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the wheel hard over to the right and power your roadster towards the used car lot. A wrecked auto lies overturned with its trunk partially blocking the entrance, and, as you drive through the gap, you clip its rear fender. Immediately, the wreck flips around and slams into the side of your car, sending you skidding towards the steel doors of a service bay.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If your total is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the door handle turns, you clench your fist and get ready to strike. Suddenly the door flies open and, for a frozen moment, you are staring at the startled face of your enemy as you spring forward and land a solid punch to his throat. Your speedy attack knocks the pistol from his hand and sends him reeling backwards, croaking like a sick toad as he clutches frantically at his injured larynx. Immediately you press forward to strike again before he can recover.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Armalite</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the fury and surprise with which you launched your first strike, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain during the first two rounds of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you win and the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the machine gun bullets grazes your side and spins you to the floor: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You grit your teeth in pain as you try to stand, but before you are back on your feet, the door bursts inwards and a clansman comes rushing out of the kitchen with a machine pistol in his hands.</p>
- <p>Instinctively you leap up and grab the barrel. Owing to the speed and the unexpectedness of your bold move, you succeed in wrenching the gun from his grasp before he can fire again. Desperately he lashes out with his foot and kicks the weapon aside as he resumes his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rockblitz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to the ground. Then you look up at the front of the drug store for some indication of where the shot was fired from. A second shot rings out and you pinpoint the sniper's location just a moment before a stinging sensation assails your eyes. The bullet has hit the road surface a few inches in front of your face, and a handful of grit has been kicked up into your eyes: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Angered by this deliberate attempt to kill you, and by the heart-rending moans of the wounded Marine Gunter, you decide to flush this sniper out and even the score. Kate and the others are pinned down on the other side of the street and cannot move without exposing themselves to the sniper's sights. Only you can reach the drug store entrance with some degree of cover.</p>
- <p>When a third shot hits the helpless Gunter, your anger gives way to a grim determination. Despite Kate's pleas to stay down, you spring to your feet and sprint towards the drug store entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect258-1-foot" idref="sect258-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shoot less than a second before the Maverick discharges his pistol, yet your aim is deadly accurate. You deal him a fatal wound to the head that spins him sideways with the force of its impact.<a id="sect258-1" idref="sect258-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Unfortunately, the pistol in his hand is not a standard factory model: it is a weapon he has customized to fire in fully-automatic mode. The selector is set to auto and, as he falls to the ground, he squeezes the trigger and empties the fourteen-round magazine in a line across your car.</p>
- <p>A sharp, stinging core of pain erupts in your left arm as one of the 9mm bullets finds its mark: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. With determination, you force yourself to ignore the agonizing pain and concentrate instead on escaping from the clutches of the other Maverick clansmen. Again, you attempt to start the car, but this time you take your foot off the gas as you turn the ignition switch, despite an almost overwhelming urge to stamp the pedal straight through the floor. The move works<ch.emdash/>the engine roars back to life<ch.emdash/>and within seconds you are accelerating away from the barricade, your eyes glued firmly to the convoy's tail lights. A few poorly aimed bullets chase your escape but you soon catch up with the school bus and pass beyond range of the Maverick's guns.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You freeze, your stomach pinched tight with fear as you try to ignore the crawling sensation that is now moving rapidly up the sleeve of your jacket. Outside, you hear the clansman leaving the workshop and, as soon as you are sure he has gone, you push open the door and step out of the store room.</p>
- <p>By now the tickling sensation has reached your bicep. When Kate emerges from her hiding place, you tell her what is wrong and ask her to remove your jacket carefully. Gently she lifts it off your shoulders and gasps when she sees the spider that is perched on your arm.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Kate gasps when she sees the spider that is perched on your arm.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="574" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="574" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Add together your Field Craft and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If your total is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It comes as a relief to discover that the town of Sierra Blanca is deserted. Here the convoy halts to assess the damage and treat those who were wounded during the run. Cutter is among those who need treatment, having stopped a bullet in his left forearm. However, although you can tell he is in considerable pain, he does his best to hide it.</p>
- <p>Kate greets you with a kiss that leaves you in no doubt about how pleased she is to see you alive and in one piece. Together you go to the school bus for some food and water (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and while you are there, you listen to Pop Ewell as he tries to make radio contact with the WDL unit in El Paso. After several attempts, he manages to raise them, but they refuse to acknowledge his call unless he gives a WDL security call sign, a sort of radio password that will prove he is not a clansman trying to trick his way into the city stronghold.</p>
- <p>'Cal, will you go an' fetch Sergeant Haskell. I think we'll be needin' his help to solve this,' says Pop, and eagerly you oblige.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to pull yourself over the wall and gain access to the stadium without being seen. From a position high among the tiers, you look down at the rows of empty seats that encircle the dusty arena and observe the preparations taking place around the perimeter track. This stadium once hosted international sporting events, many of which were televised and beamed live around the world. Now it plays host to a sporting event of a very different kind. The Angelinos have challenged the Lions to put forward four of their best riders for a twenty-lap motorcycle race around the arena. The track itself reminds you of an old film you saw when you were a child, a film about the wild chariot races that took place in Ancient Rome. Today's event is meant to be a friendly challenge to celebrate the signing of their alliance, but with clan honour at stake the race will undoubtedly be run in deadly earnest.</p>
- <p>Facing you, on the far side of the stadium, is the glass-fronted observation block that was once used by television and radio commentators. Your curiosity is aroused when you notice that the door to the block is heavily guarded. Fixedly you stare at its full-length windows and count five occupants: four clansmen and one blonde-haired girl. You cannot see her face clearly, but you have a strong feeling that the girl is Kate Norton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab Kate by the wrist and take cover among the rocks that border the highway, but it is already too late. You have been seen by the approaching Angelinos and, as they get nearer, they fan out and encircle your position. Their newly elected leader, a wiry biker with a badly broken nose, offers you the chance to give yourselves up. Defiantly you both refuse.</p>
- <p>Their first attempt to capture you leaves five of them dead. Rather than risk losing any more of his men, the leader orders grenades to be thrown. They explode with a thunderous flash and you are both mortally wounded in the blast. Then they spray your position with automatic fire. When the Angelinos finally summon enough courage to close in, they find the two of you lying dead in each other's arms.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your journey and your life end nine miles south of Eldorado.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel a jolt against your shoulder as one of the clansmen stubs his toe against the raised edge of the cover and is sent sprawling to the ground. Quickly you try to replace the hatch but it is roughly pulled aside by the angry Angelino. The instant he sees your face, he draws his pistol and empties it into the shaft. Pain erupts in your head and chest as seven heavy .45-calibre slugs knock you off the ladder. The last thing you hear, as you plummet into the darkness, is Kate's echoing scream of horror.</p>
- <p>Your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You signal to Kate to come over to your position and immediately she obeys. You point to the two circling clansmen and she nods her silent understanding of the situation. Together you abandon your cover and shadow the two men as they circle around to the rear. An old tyre rack propped against the side of a derelict car wash offers you a good defensive position, and quickly you scurry towards it. Kate reaches the rack first, in time to see the Lions halt. For a moment they duck out of sight, but soon they reappear and come running, half-crouched, with guns at the ready, towards your newfound hiding place.</p>
- <p>Kate cocks her machine pistol and takes aim as the first clansman scurries between the rocks that litter the edge of the service area. He is less than twenty yards away when she squeezes off a burst of fire, bringing him crashing to the ground. His partner hesitates, then abandons his stealthy approach and comes running towards you, screaming hysterically, his own machine pistol blazing furiously at his hip. Bullets rip into the tyre rack and one smashes the barrel of Kate's gun, rendering it useless. In the next instant, he leaps on to the rack but, before he brings his weapon to bear, you lash out and smash his knee with the edge of your hand. He drops his weapon and falls forward, landing on top of you with a jolt that leaves you breathless.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalashnikov</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade combat and must fight the clansman to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bullets whistle past within inches of the scout leader's head, but he continues undaunted. He steers his machine towards the front of the roadster and, as he rides past, he lashes out at your unprotected back with his length of heavy chain.</p>
- <p>Add together your Perception and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If your total is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If your total is 6-8, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect266-1-foot" idref="sect266-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your head and take aim at the bridge, but before you squeeze the trigger you notice that the clansman is no longer there: he has changed his position. He is now lying flat on his stomach behind the rear wheel of his motorcycle. Swiftly you swing around and open fire at the bike. Your gunfire rips into the rear tyre and catches the clansman full in the face, killing him instantly.<a id="sect266-1" idref="sect266-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Before you bury them you search both bodies and the bikes, and discover the following useful items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (containing four rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Leather Face Mask</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li>Machine Pistol (containing twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Enough pain killers for one Medi-kit unit</li>
- </ul>
- <p>There remains no trace of the bikers or their machines when eventually you complete your grisly task of burial. Wearily you return to your roadster and begin the next stage of your journey to San Angelo. Less than a mile beyond the bridge you see a deserted stretch of Freeway 87. You join the freeway, heading south, and within a few minutes you catch sight of a town on the road ahead. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms that you are approaching Sterling City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the far end of a block of derelict stores is a blue, star-shaped sign that marks the site of a Lone Star gas station. You hurry along the dusty street, hopeful of finding some fuel, but you are met with disappointment. All the security caps have been sawn off the gasolene storage tanks and not a drop of their precious contents remains.</p>
- <p>The gas station itself has been ransacked and nothing of value remains, but at the rear of the building you discover something that stirs your curiosity. It is a large storage facility with heavy double doors, which are chained and padlocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you possess <typ class="item">Bolt Cutters</typ>, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your reserves of nervous energy, you race up the last few steps and lash out at the door with the sole of your boot. The door flies wide open and slams against the wall, sending the red-headed clansman who was about to investigate the noise, sprawling flat on his back.</p>
- <p>Inside the observation room you see two men<ch.emdash/>one dressed in a flamboyant mix of bright colours and the other attired in sombre black<ch.emdash/>seated at a table with a map of the United States spread before them. A muscular clansman, his chest criss-crossed with cartridge belts, stands behind the man in black and beyond him, huddled in the corner of the room, is Kate. Clearly she has suffered at the hands of Mad Dog Michigan and the sight of her bruised face and her pained, despairing expression stirs you to a fit of rage.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Inside the observation room.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="621" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="621" />
- </illustration>
- <p>For a frozen moment the room is deathly quiet, then the man in black barks an order and the bullet-belted clansman rushes forward, drawing a wide-bladed bowie knife as he runs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you possess a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not have sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your escape from the building goes unnoticed by the few clan patrols that are operating in the area. Mekong Mike has brought most of his men up to the central and northern sectors, partly as a show of strength to Mad Dog Michigan and partly as a precaution in case Mad Dog's talk of an alliance turns out to be a bluff, and he is really here to try to take over the city.</p>
- <p>The further you venture north, the more clan activity you find, and you are forced to stay hidden for longer periods as you snake your way through the ruins towards the centre of the stronghold. You are working on the assumption that Kate is with Mad Dog Michigan, and he is likely to be found where the number of clansmen is greatest.</p>
- <p>It is shortly before noon when you catch sight of a building that dominates the centre of San Angelo<ch.emdash/>the Reagan Memorial Stadium. Scores of motorcycles and their riders are gathered around its entrance where two large, tattered banners are fluttering symbolically in the breeze. One bears the lion's head mark of the Detroit Lions clan; the other is emblazoned with the long-horned steer skull symbol of the Angelinos clan. From your location opposite the entrance you overhear two Angelinos talking. You learn that some sort of motorcycle race is to take place here this afternoon, to celebrate the signing of a pact between the two clans. Now you feel sure that Mad Dog and Kate are here somewhere inside the stadium, and you apply yourself to finding a way in.</p>
- <p>After watching the entrance for over an hour, only two options appear open to you. You can try to hide in one of the trucks that are carrying spares for the clansmen's bikes, in the hope that they will enter the stadium before the race; or you can attempt to scale the stadium wall at one of the many places where it has partially collapsed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you decide to try to stow away in one of the service trucks, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you decide to attempt to climb over the wall, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly there is a bang and a muzzle flash illuminates the far corner of the bar. You throw yourself at the floor immediately, but you are not swift enough to avoid being clipped in the thigh by a 9mm bullet: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Seconds later Haskell bursts into the bar and fires three shots into the corner. There is a loud groan followed almost immediately by the sound of a heavy body falling off a chair. He rushes to your side and, using his own Medi-kit, staunches your wound with a sulfonamide pad and a bandage. Once he is sure you are not seriously injured, he goes to take a look at who he has shot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333"><link-text>Turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect271-1-foot" idref="sect271-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move out into the corridor, your G-12 machine pistol held chest high, ready to fire. Your finger grazes the trigger and a burst of automatic fire sweeps the guards in a deadly figure-of-eight pattern, dropping them in a tangled heap at the foot of the stairs.<a id="sect271-1" idref="sect271-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect143"><link-text>Turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the grenade and it lands neatly in the centre of the ammunition chest. Unfortunately, as you are running from the barricade, a clansman catches sight of you and opens fire with his machine pistol.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance 0 equals 10). The number you have picked is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose as a result of being caught in the machine gun fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you survive your wounds, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mortified by the sight of the truck veering wildly across your path, you can barely open your mouth in time to scream before the front of your car collides with the side of the truck. The engine compartment crumples under the force of the impact and both front tyres explode simultaneously, flipping your vehicle end-over-end like a discarded toy. A kaleidoscope of shapes assails your eyes as the roadster cartwheels along the freeway. Then you are engulfed by a wave of searing white heat as the fuel tank ruptures and ignites in an enormous ball of flame.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life come to an abrupt end less than five miles from Big Spring.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have reached the place where the highway passes through the Finlay Mountains, and from this high point you have a commanding view over the valley and salt lakes beyond. You stop to survey the scene and, to your horror, you see a huge group of clansmen riding across the valley, heading towards Van Horn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansmen dive aside as you crash through their barrier and accelerate across the open ground towards the safety of the southern ruins. They recover quickly and soon the staccato hammering of their assault rifles is echoing in your wake. With twenty yards left to go, five bullets rip their way through the jeep's rear tyres, which explode with a tremendous bang. For a moment you lose control as the vehicle slews sideways, rises on two wheels and then comes to a sudden halt. Quickly you abandon it and run for cover.</p>
- <p>Ahead, you see the ruins of a fire station. You shout to Kate and point at the building; immediately she acknowledges your message with a thumbs-up. Then a string of bullets ricochets off the rubble-strewn ground around your feet, kicking up a cloud of dust that engulfs your whole body. Kate looks over her shoulder with fear stark in her eyes, but when you scream that you are OK, and tell her to keep running at all costs, her expression relaxes and she obeys your command willingly. More shots ring out, but they fall short of their mark and you reach the ruins of the fire station unscathed. Inside, you discover that much of the roof has collapsed, although you can see that one vehicle, a paramedic truck, has survived the devastation virtually intact.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to search this vehicle, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you choose to ignore it and press on with your escape, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The unmistakable roar of motorcycle engines is coming from the direction of Broome, and, as you focus on that distant town, you see a tell-tale cloud of dust rising above its ruins. You know that it can only be a large pack of clansmen and that you must find somewhere to hide yourself and your roadster before they show up.</p>
- <p>The dried-out bed of the North Concho River offers the only feasible place to take cover from the approaching bikers. Quickly you pull off the freeway and search for a place to enter the river bed as the first of the bikers comes riding out of the town.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and to it your perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive behind the wing of the car and cover your head with your arm as the heavy motorcycle drive chain whistles towards you. It catches your shoulder a glancing blow that leaves its mark in the shape of an angry read weal: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Pained by the blow, you grit your teeth as you turn to face your two-wheeled adversary.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both bullets hit you with deadly accuracy: one in the head and the other in the heart. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here at Fort Stockton.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab the pistol grip of your G-12 and glance down at the breach to make sure that the cocking lever is set ready to fire. The moment the clansman sees you resting the barrel on the door, he veers across to the left lane of the highway as quickly as he can. You smile when you realize the purpose of his manoeuvre: he is trying to increase his chances by making it as difficult as he can for you to shoot at him with your right hand.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving and Shooting skill scores. Now decide how many bursts of fire you wish to unleash at the clansman (minimum: one burst; maximum: four bursts), and add the number to your skills total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If your total score is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total score is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The spider is swept from your arm and sent spinning into a dark corner of the workshop. Quickly you move forward, intending to crush it beneath your boot, but it has already scurried into the safety of the woodwork and no trace of it remains.</p>
- <p>'You were lucky, Cal,' says Kate. 'A bite from that little fella would have made you real sick.'</p>
- <p>'Yeah,' you reply uneasily, as you wipe the sweat from your brow, 'that was close.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to leave Fort Stockton at dawn the following morning, but the weather deteriorates, putting a swift end to your plans. For two days and nights the town is hit by lightning storms and tornadoes, forcing you to remain in the basement of the motel. It is not until the morning of the sixth day of your mission that the tornadoes blow themselves out and you are able to leave the town in safety.</p>
- <p>With Kate beside you, and the three marines clinging to the hood and trunk of your roadster, you crawl the twenty-three miles from Fort Stockton to the Balmorhea rest stop that Haskell found on your map. It is located at the entrance to a pass through the Barrilla Mountains and at first glance it appears to have suffered extensive damage in the recent storms. You bring the roadster to a halt with your fuel tank virtually empty, and it is with great trepidation that you and Sergeant Haskell go to inspect the fuel storage tanks while Kate and the others watch the road.</p>
- <p>Of the eight underground fuel tanks located beneath the gas station area, only one looks promising. Of the others, six are empty and one is contaminated with diesel oil. A coded security valve locks the access pipe to the tank and, after a brief examination, you realize that the code must be cracked if you are to get at the contents. Any attempt to break off or cut through the valve would be sure to cause a spark that would blow the tank, and whoever was tampering with it, sky high.</p>
- <p>You are studying the valve when you hear Marine Gunter shout a warning: 'Clansmen on the freeway!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck to avoid the spinning cleaver, and it whistles over your head to strike the tiled wall with a ringing clang. Cursing you, the clansman reaches for a machine pistol that is propped against the food locker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you possess a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or lack sufficient ammunition to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With seconds to spare, you steer your roadster away from the brink of disaster. Your rear tyres spin along the edge of the gully, kicking up great clouds of stones and dust before they grip and propel you back on to the freeway.</p>
- <p>In your mirror you see the convoy coming under small-arms fire, but it is light and sporadic and it claims no victims. Soon you are all safely out of the battle zone and racing away from the Slaughter Mountain run towards Sierra Blanca.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you strike the killing blow, Kate grabs the dead coyote by the scruff of its neck and bundles it out of the car. The pack-handlers have gathered together the rest of their surviving coyote and intend to set them on you as you try frantically to restart the engine. The mountain dogs bound forward, snapping and howling. Kate draws her pistol and fires, bringing down three of the leading dogs in as many shots and buying you the few precious seconds you need to coax the roadster back to life. Then, with a cloud of dust and burnt rubber, you say farewell to the pack as you take off along the main street towards the Christoval bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the freeway and drive due east across the dusty plain. In the distance you can see a derelict ranch house and traces of a highway that pass close by. You are about to drive past the ranch when you notice a pick-up truck parked outside an adjoining barn. Judging by the condition of the vehicle's bodywork it is still serviceable.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to take a closer look at the pick-up truck, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you decide to ignore the truck and press on with your detour around Sterling City, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of seeing you rushing towards him with a weapon in your hand, causes the sniper to panic. He fires his rifle before he has even brought the barrel to bear on you, and the bullet thuds harmlessly into the floor.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Renegade Sniper</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and ferocity of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a fit of panic, the archer releases his bow string and sends his primitive arrow whistling towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If your total score is 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If it is 13-18, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If it is 19 or more, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you first see San Angelo, the sun is a quarter hidden below the skyline, its soft red glow reflecting upon a cluster of tall buildings that stand at the city's centre. They are the ravaged shells of banks and state offices that were the pride of this once-prosperous city before 'The Day'. Surrounding them, for many miles, is a sea of dust and rubble. Your skin prickles when you realize that this is all that remains of the city's suburbs, an area that was once home to more than a million Texans.</p>
- <p>You are about to drive towards the centre when you notice that a fortified wall has been erected around the tall buildings of the downtown area, and that the northern freeway approaches are controlled by roadblocks. It would be near-suicidal to approach any closer, so you decide to make a wide detour around the city limits and try to approach from the south.</p>
- <p>It takes you nearly two hours to reach the south side of San Angelo, by which time night has fallen. Fortunately, your decision to go south pays off; this section of the city is virtually uninhabited by the Angelinos and your approach goes undetected. Hidden by the darkness, you are able to get within a mile of the downtown area before you encounter any sign of clan activity. You know that if your rescue of Kate is to be successful you must not allow your roadster to fall into enemy hands, and with this in mind, you search for somewhere safe to leave it while you venture into the downtown area on foot.</p>
- <p>An underground parking lot situated below the looted ruins of a Sears megamarket provides just such a safe haven, and it is here that you hide your car. You are tired after the rigours of your journey, so you decide to get a few hours' sleep and attempt your rescue at first light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retrace your steps all the way back to the front lobby, continue across it, and enter the other corridor. This services a number of offices and conference rooms before it ends at a wide staircase leading downwards. You descend three floors and discover the remains of a large private restaurant which, along with its kitchen, occupies most of the sub-basement level. A small 'fire exit' sign hangs over the double doors leading to the kitchen and you head straight for it.</p>
- <p>As you are crossing the restaurant floor, your rumbling stomach reminds you that you have yet to eat anything today. Then the thought occurs to you that there may still be some canned food in the kitchen, and you resolve to search it before you leave the building.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On every side, a desolate plain of arid, lifeless earth stretches to the horizon. The highway meanders across this wasteland, following the gentle curve of a dry watercourse that the ranchers and oilmen of this county once knew as Lacy Creek.</p>
- <p>You have been driving for half an hour when you see a signpost, its blistered metal plate announcing your approach to the Sterling county line. As you cross this boundary, your engine begins to splutter and backfire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually, the clansmen return to their motorcycles and ride out of Eldorado, heading south. With the immediate threat now gone, you decide to remain where you are and snatch a few hours' sleep before continuing your journey at dawn.</p>
- <p>In the clear light of early morning you can see for miles across the rocky plain that surrounds the highway south of Eldorado. It appears empty, although you remain on the alert every second of your drive to Sonora, the next town marked on your <a idref="map">map</a>, for it is in this direction that the Angelinos came when they left Eldorado last night. You are less than a mile from the ruins of Sonora when you are greeted by the welcome sight of Interstate 10, stretching east-to-west across your path. This is the freeway that you hope will take you all the way to your rendezvous with the colony at Kent, and then on through the mountains to El Paso.</p>
- <p>You join the freeway and enjoy the feel of a firmer, clearer road surface beneath your wheels as you begin the long drive west. Still you can see no sign of the Angelinos, and Kate voices her hope that they have decided to search Sonora, thinking you may have hidden there last night. You want to agree with her, but suddenly, in the distance, you see something that proves her wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect292-1-foot" idref="sect292-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ambush catches the clansman by surprise. But your aim is poor, and although your gunfire wings him and makes him cry out in pain, it does not prevent him from returning a burst of fire at your position.<a id="sect292-1" idref="sect292-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If your total score is 17 or less, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If your total score is 18 or more, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The convoy leaves the sanctuary of Big Spring with its headlights blazing and its gas pedals pressed flat to the floor. The deafening motor noise rolls across the surrounding land like thunder, and the twisted auto wrecks that litter this section of Freeway 20 seem to flash past with ever-increasing speed as you accelerate your car into the slipstream of the school bus. Above, you see a smoky pinpoint of fire climb into the night sky, then explode with a brilliant flash. It is a signal flare, and it has been launched by the startled group of Maverick gang lookouts, who are manning a barricade less than half a mile ahead.</p>
- <p>The barricade comprises a line of old cars and other debris that has been dragged into a haphazard line across the freeway. As the tow truck screams towards its centre, you can just hear the crackle of automatic gunfire above the roar of the convoy's engines. Then, with a grinding crash, the truck slams into the barricade and ploughs straight through without slowing. Torn and buckled sheets of rusty metal are spun skywards, together with the bodies of those Mavericks too slow to jump clear. Still in line, the convoy follows Pecos Pete through the ragged gap carved by his truck. As you approach it, you grit your teeth and tighten your grip on the steering wheel.</p>
- <p>To your right you notice the steep embankment that borders this section of the freeway. An old panel truck is perched near the top of the slope, held there in defiance of gravity by blocks of concrete that are wedged in front of its wheels. Feverishly two Mavericks are trying to pull away these chocks and, as you reach the gap, they succeed. Your stomach churns as the panel truck comes careering down the embankment on a collision course with your car.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The panel truck comes careering down the embankment on a collision course with your car.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to try to avoid the runaway panel truck by swerving to the left, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to brake heavily in an attempt to avoid a collision, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you decide to accelerate in an attempt to get out of its path, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell Uncle Jonas and the others to watch for your flare. You will fire it as soon as a breach has been made in the barricade. When they see it, they are to start their engines, drive through the barricade in break-out formation and stop for nothing until they reach El Paso.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Half-way across the open ground there is a sudden burst of machine gun fire and a line of bullets slams into the rubble near your feet. A ricochet cuts you across the back of your left hand and you cry out in pain as you cradle the wounded limb to your chest: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Kate looks over her shoulder, her face aghast, and begins to slow down to allow you to catch her. But you scream that you are OK, and order her to keep running at all costs.</p>
- <p>More shots ring out, but they fall wide of their mark and you are able to reach the fire station ruins. Much of the roof has collapsed, although you can see that one vehicle, a paramedic truck, has survived the devastation virtually unscathed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to search the vehicle, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you choose to ignore it and press on with your escape, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull over to the side of the road and focus your lenses on the distant bridge. Two clansmen, both stripped to the waist, are roasting something on a spit that is suspended over a small campfire. Their motorcycles are parked beside them, nose-to-tail across the road, so that they obstruct the entrance to the bridge. The two men appear to be occupied with the cooking of their meal and are, for now, unaware of your presence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to launch a surprise attack on these two clansmen, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you prefer to stay where you are and wait for them to leave the bridge, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An agonizing pain cuts across your chest and the warm taste of blood fills your mouth. Then the terrible pain gives way to a terrifying numbness. For a moment the corridor swims in and out of focus, then darkness engulfs you as you relinquish your hold on life.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here in San Angelo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The roadster hits an outcrop of rock, which forces the right side of the vehicle into the air. Desperately you fight to correct the roll but it is already too late: the car is out of control. You can barely open your mouth in time to scream before the roadster flips over and bursts into flames.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait until the stadium gate opens and the crowd of clansmen starts to enter before you make your move. Purposefully, you stride across the wide avenue that surrounds the stadium, trying not to look directly at any of the bikers or attract their attention. One of the trucks in particular has caught your eye and you head straight for it. It is towing a trailer that contains two powerful-looking motorcycles, and you are convinced that they are to be used in the races. If any of the trucks are to enter the stadium then this one surely will.</p>
- <p>There is nobody in the truck and its rear door is unlocked, so quickly you climb aboard and find yourself a hiding place behind two large drums of gasolene. After a few minutes, you hear somebody climb into the cab and start the engine. Then the truck moves away and you sense by its direction that it is approaching the stadium gate. You see the shadow of the arch fall across the trailer and then suddenly the vehicle halts. Your heart pounds in your chest as you hear the rear doors creak open and sense someone clambering aboard.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If your total score is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It feels good to be able to drive once more at a speed that is faster than the brisk walking pace to which you have limited yourself over the past twenty-five fuel-conscious miles. It is also a great relief not to have to walk the fifty or so miles to Kent, for they are mostly uphill, as the freeway passes through the ruined town of Brogado and traverses the northern slopes of the Davis Mountains. During this part of your journey you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You reach Kent shortly after noon, a day ahead of your planned time of rendezvous with the convoy. The highway and surrounding area show no sign of their having arrived before you, so you decide to try to relax here and recoup your strength while you wait for the convoy to show.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Painfully aware that Kate has run out of bullets, you start work on changing the damaged front wheel with frantic vigour. The clan scout leader, confident that you are both out of ammunition, comes riding across the river, howling curses and whirling a heavy motorcycle chain in his left hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you have either a Shotgun or a Rifle, and possess sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kate draws her pistol and fires at the approaching clansman, who flattens himself against the floor for cover. He returns fire and his bullets hack through the stalagmites behind which you are hiding, mowing them down as if they were sheaves of dry straw.</p>
- <p>Kate rises to fire again but her pistol jams. With a mocking laugh, the Angelino gets to his feet and advances, confident that she is no longer a threat. In desperation she throws her pistol at him, a move so sudden that it takes him aback. The pistol hits him in the face and he drops his weapon and clutches his hands to his bleeding nose. Instinctively, you snatch a broken stalagmite from the floor and rush forward to attack the clansman with it before he has a chance to retrieve his fallen machine pistol.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You snatch a broken stalagmite from the floor and rush forward to attack the clansman with it.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="620" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="620" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Chinatown</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to his wound, and the speed of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">You can evade the fight at any time by <link-text>turning to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You complete your detour of Sterling city without incident and rejoin Freeway 87 a few miles south of the town. The hour you spent driving across the dusty plain has made you very thirsty, and you must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The freeway follows a wide, rock-strewn gully that was once the North Concho River. You are staring at this dead watercourse, trying to imagine what the river must have looked like before 'The Day', when a road sign flashes past. You stop the car and turn back to read it. It says:</p>
- <signpost>BROOME<ch.emdash/>2 MILES</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your car to a halt at the side of the road and approach Black Peak on foot. However, you have not gone very far when the ground becomes too steep to continue without the use of climbing aids. Unless you can find a track you will be forced to abandon your investigation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For the next hour you wind your way through the ruined city, crawling over the rubble and sprinting across every open area to minimize the risk of being seen. At length you reach a place that overlooks the southern perimeter wall. There you stop to settle your nerves and catch your breath. In a hushed voice, you tell Kate the whereabouts of your roadster, just in case you do not make it out of San Angelo.</p>
- <p>'Don't talk like that, Cal,' she says, gripping your hand as if her life depended on it. It scares me.'</p>
- <p>You tell her as much as you can about your planned rendezvous with the colony; how in six days from now you are to meet at Kent. There is so much you want to tell her, but the sudden arrival of four clansmen in an open-topped jeep puts an abrupt end to your conversation. The vehicle screeches to a halt and the four grim-faced men leap out, brandishing machine pistols. The driver grunts something and they fan out and start searching the ruins.</p>
- <p>Beyond the wall there is fifty yards of cleared ground separating the stronghold from the ruins of the southern suburbs. To reach your roadster, you will somehow have to cross this killing zone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to climb over the wall and make a run for it before the clansmen get any nearer, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to stay hidden until they pass, and then attempt to steal their jeep and drive across the cleared ground, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beneath a road bridge, a line of Angelinos is strung out across the freeway, each one sitting astride his bike with a rifle or a machine pistol resting across the handlebars. They are the clansmen whom you saw last night. Having realized that they must have passed you in the dark, they are waiting patiently for you to show up.</p>
- <p>To your right you see an exit ramp that ascends to the bridge itself and, as the clansmen open fire, you steer your car towards it to avoid the withering hail of bullets.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your Driving and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Violently the roadster swerves left and right, and you almost lose your rifle as you fight to regain control. As soon as you have the car back on a straight line, you bring the barrel to bear on your enemy and squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving and Shooting skill scores. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If your total score is 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total score is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the clansman's body and run to where Kate is standing. She looks a little shell-shocked but is otherwise unharmed, and together you return to the front of the service area in time to see the sole surviving Detroit Lion making a speedy escape back along the freeway.</p>
- <p>Sergeant Haskell and his men cheer his retreat, then conduct a search of those who did not get away. Although few personal possessions are found, they do recover some weapons and ammunition and you are offered a choice from the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Machine Pistol</li>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Five rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>While the sergeant and his men dispose of the bodies, you return to the gasolene storage tank and set to work on cracking its security code.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you regain control by steering into the skid. Then, as the wheels begin to grip, you bring the car around in a spectacular 180-degree turn and simultaneously cut the engine. You try to keep as still as possible as the pack of clansmen, fifty riders strong, roar past the site. Soon they have gone and your spirits are raised by the thought that there will now be at least fifty less of Mad Dog's men to face when you reach San Angelo.</p>
- <p>After satisfying yourself that the clansmen have gone, you cast your eyes around the derelict construction site.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to search the site, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to leave and continue your journey to San Angelo, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your foot holding the gas pedal flat to the floor you roar towards Christoval with a score of angry Angelinos hot on your heels. On entering the town, you see that the coyote on the road ahead are fighting each other in two separate packs. Each pack is being urged on by men who are conducting some sort of wager on the outcome of the fight. So engrossed are they in the dog fight that they seem oblivious of the fact that you are speeding straight towards them. It is not until you sound your horn and flash your headlamps that the men and dogs begin to scatter, but by then it is too late for some of them.</p>
- <p>The car shudders as you plough into a dozen of the fighting dogs, sending them spinning into the air. One tumbles over the windshield and lands between you and Kate. Maddened by the pain of its wounds, it lunges at you and closes its fangs around your right forearm. Desperately, Kate tries to pummel it unconscious with the butt of her pistol as you fight to maintain control of the speeding car.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The coyote closes its fangs around your right forearm. Desperately, Kate tries to pummel it unconscious with the butt of her pistol.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="619" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="619" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If your total is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If it is 9-12, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If it is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize the brown, thin-legged arachnid by the dark, violin-shaped marking on the back of its head. It is <foreign xml:lang="latin">Loxoceles Reclusa</foreign><ch.emdash/>a poisonous Fiddleback spider.</p>
- <p>Nervously you watch the spider while Kate salvages a scrap of stiff board from the rubbish-strewn floor. She tells you to keep absolutely still, for she intends to try to knock it off your arm with one quick flick of the card.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If the number you have picked is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If it is 3-9, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see the first rays of dawn light in your rear-view mirror as you pull out from behind the bus and start to overtake the convoy. As you draw level with the tanker, a watery spray speckles your windshield and you catch the strong, unmistakable smell of gasolene in the air. A stream of the precious liquid is escaping from a bullet hole in the tanker's side, and, as you draw level with the cab, you signal anxiously to Uncle Jonas to stop at the first opportunity.</p>
- <p>You have covered less than a mile when the freeway approaches the ruins of Stanton, a town long since looted and forgotten by the Mavericks, and you bring the convoy to a halt. Pecos Pete offers to help Uncle Jonas patch up the damage, and while you are waiting for them to finish their work, you ask Cutter to help you tell the rest of the colony your plan to rescue Kate. At first there are many who think you are being crazy and irresponsible. But gradually, after listening to Cutter's pleas on your behalf, they relent and finally consent to your rescue attempt.</p>
- <p>Your plan is to go it alone to San Angelo. When you arrive there you will infiltrate the town while Mad Dog Michigan and his gang are busy wheeling and dealing with the Angelinos. Once you have found and rescued Kate, you will leave the city and make your way west to rendezvous with the convoy at a town called Kent, situated at the fork where Freeway 20 joins Interstate 10. The rendezvous is planned to take place exactly seven days from now. If either you or the colony fails to get there by midday, the party that does arrive is to assume the worst and press on to El Paso without delay.</p>
- <p>Before you leave, two large plastic containers, filled with sufficient fuel to enable you to complete the 400-mile detour you have in mind, are loaded into the trunk of your roadster. Then, with the tanker repaired and your preparations complete, the colonists, especially your aunt and uncle, bid you an emotional farewell. They are fearful of what might befall you, but all, without exception, admire your bravery and determination to save the girl you love.</p>
- <p>Silently you watch the convoy rumble out of Stanton until it has passed beyond the western horizon. The sun has now risen, and the pot-holed remains of State Highway 137 can be seen cutting a straight line to the south. A wave of uncertainty unsettles your stomach as you think about the difficult mission you have set yourself, but you are quick to dismiss these fears.</p>
- <p>'I've got a job to do and I'm gonna see it gets done!' you shout, as you start your engine and point your car southwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In order to prise the dead dog from your arm, you are forced to stand up in your driving seat. Meanwhile, the pack handlers have gathered together the rest of their surviving coyote and now intend to set them on you. They yell an order, and the mountain dogs bound forward, snapping and howling. Kate replies by drawing her pistol and firing, bringing down three of the leading dogs in as many shots. She buys you the few precious seconds you need to free yourself from the dead coyote, but before you can lower yourself behind the wheel, the handlers return fire and you feel something thump you in the back. You feel no pain and, almost fearing to acknowledge that you have been hit at all, you reach for the ignition and bring the roadster back to life, Then, with a cloud of dust and burnt rubber, you say farewell to the coyote and take off along the main street towards the Christoval bridge.</p>
- <p>Kate heard the impact made by the bullet and, fearing the worst, she leans over to take a look at your back. You hear her breathe a sigh of relief as she discovers that the bullet has lodged itself in the bottom of your water canteen.</p>
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> any water that you may have been carrying in your canteen. You need not erase the canteen itself as it can be repaired and is still serviceable.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove the grenade from your pack and set the timer to four seconds. Then you ease out the pin, roll the cylindrical explosive into the sniper's room and quickly turn your face away from the door. The deep thud of the explosion shakes the walls and sends a gout of smoke and flame gushing into the corridor. When the smoke clears, you rush into the room and find the sniper lying dead at the foot of the window with his rifle still clutched in his hands. (If you wish to keep this weapon, you discover that it contains eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>You shout an 'all clear' to the others in the street below and then turn to leave the flame-scorched room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are nearly at the top of the wall when you lose your footing and fall backwards. In a cloud of dust and loose debris, you tumble head-over-heels down the heap and come to an abrupt and painful halt in the avenue below: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>'What were you up to?' growls the shorter of two ugly-looking Detroit Lions who have appeared suddenly and are now standing over you.</p>
- <p>'Why ain't you using the North Gate, eh? That's where the Angelinos are supposed to be meetin'.'</p>
- <p>Stiffly you clamber to your feet and begin to brush away the thick layer of dust that covers you completely, until you realize that it is the dust that is concealing the fact that you are not an Angelino.</p>
- <p>'I'm an Angelino who jus' wants t'see the race. I'm supposed to be patrolling the south zone, but ain't nothin' ever happens down there. Gimme a break you guys, will ya?'</p>
- <p>A grin spreads slowly across the faces of the two Lions as they see a chance to make some easy pickings. They agree to get you into the stadium, but at a price; you will have to bribe them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess a <typ class="item">Bottle of Bourbon</typ>, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heat and flames force you back from the entrance, and as you reach the centre of the hall, you look around desperately for another way out but every exit is now ablaze.</p>
- <p>Using a heavy rug from the floor, you cover Kate's head and tell her to make a dash for the main door. Bravely she obeys your command without hesitation, and she succeeds in escaping through the tunnel of flame and out into the street beyond. Heartened by her success, you raise your jacket over your head, take a deep breath and sprint after her.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the highway and drive across the stony ground that borders the town of Christoval and the South Concho River. The land here is far too rough for you to be able to drive at speed and, as you glance in your mirror, you are sorely aware that the bikers are closing the gap. Your only chance of escape is to find a way across the river and get back on to the highway.</p>
- <p>Kate too senses the danger, and knows what must be done. She keeps her eyes peeled on the river, looking for somewhere suitable to cross, while you negotiate a way through the boulders that lie scattered in your path.</p>
- <p>'Over there, Cal!' she shouts, pointing to a shallow-sided section of the river bank. Immediately you steer towards it and power your car down the gentle slope towards the foul-smelling water. Here, the tainted river is less than a foot deep and the rocky bed provides a firm grip for your tyres.</p>
- <p>You are half-way across when you hear a dull thud. Suddenly there is a flash of orange-red flame and a column of splintered rocks and black water erupts from the river a few feet ahead. The clansmen are firing grenades!</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If the number you have picked is 4-9, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect318-1-foot" idref="sect318-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire misses the clansman by a wide mark, causing him to throw back his head and laugh.<a id="sect318-1" idref="sect318-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Then he veers off the highway and takes to the open ground. You discard your weapon, but you are as determined as ever not to let the clansman escape, so you pull the steering wheel hard over to the left and pursue him as he guns his bike cross-country towards Freeway 87.</p>
- <p>An empty concrete drainage ditch runs parallel to the freeway, wide enough to deter the biker from attempting to ride straight across. At the last minute he veers away and you chase him along its edge for nearly half a mile before finally he plucks up enough courage to try to get across. Ahead, a derelict pump house looms, straddling the ditch, its angular roof offering itself as a ramp that could be used to launch a jump on to the freeway. The clansman takes one last look at you over his shoulder and then, with a scream of fearful exhilaration, he winds back the throttle and points his bike at the pump house roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to attempt to follow the clansman across the ditch, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you decide to steer your roadster away from the pump house, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect319-1-foot" idref="sect319-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you pump a cartridge into the breach of your shotgun and level the barrel at the first clansman as he scurries between the rocks that litter the edge of the service area. He is less than fifteen yards away when you fire your first shot, bringing him tumbling to the ground.<a id="sect319-1" idref="sect319-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His partner hesitates, then abandons his stalking approach and comes running towards you, screaming hysterically, his machine pistol blazing at his hip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you have sufficient ammunition and wish to fire again, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not have sufficient ammunition to fire a second time, or choose not to fire, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using bandages and a sulfonamide pad, Kate dresses your leg as quickly as she can. Her speedy attention to your leg restores 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. (This is in addition to the 1 point you gain automatically through the use of a Medi-kit unit.)</p>
- <p>The wide corridor into which you have emerged is empty at present, but the sound of running footsteps is growing louder with each passing second, and it will not be very long before the area is teeming with clansmen. Kate points to a service hatch, almost invisible against the dirt-encrusted wall, and suggests that you hide there. You nod you agreement and help her to prise open the rusty hatch door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell the soldiers who you are and how you came to be here in Fort Stockton. At first, they listen to your fantastic account with cool scepticism. They cross-examine you both in an attempt to find a flaw in your story, but when they are unable to find any, their attitude begins to change. By the time they have finished their interrogation, you have managed to win their respect and admiration.</p>
- <p>Once they are convinced that you are genuine colonists they recount their own tale. They are WDF marines who, before 'The Day', were stationed at an underground tracking facility in Brownsville, Texas. Twelve of their unit survived the post-holocaust years, but soon after their return to the surface they were the victims of a clan attack. They were the only survivors of the attack and were forced to flee Brownsville on foot. Eventually they managed to find a vehicle that worked<ch.emdash/>the pick-up truck<ch.emdash/>and had got this far when the fuel ran out and the engine broke down. They are trying to reach their command headquarters at Fort Bliss, located just north of El Paso, where they hope to rejoin remnants of their unit. They arrived in Fort Stockton three days ago and have been prevented from continuing their journey on foot by the blistering day temperatures and the fierce night storms that have swept down from the Barrilla Mountains.</p>
- <p>They have set up camp in the ruins of a nearby motel and they invite you there to share their food and drink, and to formulate a plan to find some fuel for your roadster. Their provisions are basic but you receive them gratefully: restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Something sharp punches you in the stomach and nausea washes over you in a wave that leaves you gasping for breath. Fearfully you clasp your hand to your midriff and feel warm blood oozing between your fingers, yet you feel no pain. Aware that you have been shot and that the shock of your wound is numbing your senses, you force yourself to get clear of the door in case the unseen gunman fires again.</p>
- <p>You have taken just five steps when your vision begins to dim and your legs refuse to support your weight. You fall forwards and hit the floor face-first, but still you feel nothing, save the creeping numbness that slowly robs you of the will to live.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your mission and your life end here at San Angelo.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your pulse is racing as you wait for the optimum moment to launch your ambush. The clansman's footsteps seem unbearably loud but still you hesitate. He stops and instinctively you spring to your feet, aim and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total score is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If your total score is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once you are safely across the bridge, you keep your foot on the gas pedal until the town of Christoval disappears from your rear-view mirror. Ahead, the highway crosses an especially bleak and barren landscape, seemingly devoid of even the hardiest flora and fauna. It looks more like a moonscape than a landscape, and, were it not for the setting sun and the welcome cool of dusk, you could easily believe that you had been transferred to the surface of another world.</p>
- <p>It is almost dark when the outline of a town appears on the horizon, its shattered buildings thrown into relief by the ashen moonlight. A battered sign reflects the glare of your headlamps and announces your approach to the town of Eldorado.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132"><link-text>Turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By feeling your way along the thick cables that festoon the walls of the tunnel, you are able to make reasonable progress in the dark. More than half an hour later you reach a wider section where a faint light seeps down from glass bricks embedded in the ceiling around a circular steel hatch. A ladder ascends to the hatch and Kate suggests that it could be worth investigating. You agree, and you lift up the heavy steel cover carefully and look out. Kate was right: the sight that greets you is the entrance gate to the Reagan Memorial Stadium.</p>
- <p>After waiting until there is little clan activity in the immediate area, you emerge from the shaft and make your way quickly into the ruins of the southern central sector of the San Angelo stronghold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swerve to the right to avoid the speeding missile, and your swift reactions save you from receiving a direct hit. The armour-tipped projectile burrows into the ground close to your rear wheel, and the resultant explosion buffets your trunk and sends the roadster into a skid. Desperately you fight to regain control as you slide off the freeway and career towards a deep gully.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If your total is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman glances nervously over his shoulder as the sound of your engine growls louder and louder in his ears. You are drawing very close now, and you can see that he is having difficulty maintaining his speed. His red-rimmed eyes stare fearfully from his dusty face as he struggles to coax more power from his failing machine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If the missile weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sergeant Haskell and yourself dispatch the clansmen with a volley of well-aimed shots (erase two rounds from your Ammo Pouch) before taking a closer look at what they were transporting. You discover several crates and lockers filled with munitions: mortars, anti-tank weapons, heavy machine guns and the like. However, you cannot find any ammunition for these weapons. You are about to set fire to the truck, to prevent the weapons from falling into the hands of other clansmen, when you discover one item that could be of some use after all.</p>
- <p>In a sealed locker at the bottom of the heap, you discover a portable Leviathan ground-to-air missile, a weapon with approximately eight times the destructive power of a bazooka.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You discover a portable Leviathan ground-to-air missile.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="545" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="545" />
- </illustration>
- <p>If you wish to keep this <typ class="item">Leviathan Missile</typ>, you must reduce your Stealth score by 2 points due to its size and weight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">To continue, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fighting back your fear, you try to ignore the sound of the engines and concentrate instead on finding a place where you can descend the steep bank and enter the river bed. Your determination pays off and you are able to get yourself and your roadster under cover before the clansmen are close enough to spot you. With bated breath you watch as the pack, fifty riders strong, roar along the freeway. The sight of them passing raises your spirits a little, for at least there will now be fifty less to face when you reach San Angelo.</p>
- <p>When the pack are nothing but a cloud of dust on the northern horizon, you start up your engine and head back on to the freeway towards Broome.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foul-mouthed scout leader is half-way across the river when Kate snatches your gun, takes aim and silences the screaming Angelino for good with a single shot to the heart. The sight of him crashing into the river stuns the remaining clansmen just long enough for you to complete your wheel change and jump back into the car. Kate leaps in beside you, stows your gun behind your seat and shouts: 'Let's get outta here!'</p>
- <p>As you mount the top of the bank and speed away towards the distant highway, you glance over your shoulder to see the scouts retrieving their leader's body from the South Concho River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the noise of the explosion fades and the smoke thins, you approach the door to discover that the padlock no longer exists. Firmly you push open the shrapnel-pitted door and enter the hangar-like interior. Inside you find an armoured truck, one of many that were once used by banks to transport cash and bullion around Texas. This one was hijacked shortly before 'The Day', and was brought here, where its cargo was to have been shared out by the robbers. However, they never had a chance to divide and spend their loot, and the vehicle still contains over thirty million dollars in cash, a sum now completely worthless.</p>
- <p>The truck's fuel tank is a quarter full, but it is diesel oil and cannot be used in your roadster. Cursing your luck, you search the truck and the building for anything that may be of practical use and you discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Air Pump</typ></li>
- <li>Distilled Water (enough for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Engine Oil</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Monkey Wrench</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>Dusk is beginning to give way to darkness and you are anxious to return to the roadster before the evening light fades completely. Having satisfied yourself that you have overlooked nothing of value, you leave the building and return to your car.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The force of the bullets throws you flat on your back, knocking your weapon clean out of your hands. You lie there winded for a few seconds, then you grit your teeth and try to rise, but a wave of pain robs you of your strength and you slip and fall heavily against the body of the dead clansman at the bottom of the gully.</p>
- <p>Then you hear a sound that chills your blood: the running footfalls of the biker as he rushes forward to finish you off. Desperately you look around for a weapon and notice a pistol tucked into the waistband of the dead clansman. The biker's face appears above the edge of the gully at precisely the same moment that your fingers close around the pistol grip. Simultaneously you curse each other, then take aim and fire at each other's head.</p>
- <p>Add your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If your total is now 22 or less, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If your total is now 23 or more, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Clutching your wounded leg, you hobble after the sergeant and find him in the corner of the bar, kneeling beside a clansman who is bleeding from a chest wound. You also notice that the man's leg is set in splints, as if recently broken, and that the leather jacket he wears is marked with the Maverick ace-of-spades symbol.</p>
- <p>Haskell lifts his head from the floor and asks him what he is doing here. Stubbornly, the dying clansman refuses to answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you have a Medi-kit unit and wish to use it to treat the clansman's wound, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you do not possess a Medi-kit unit, or do not wish to use one on a man who just tried to kill you, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than twenty yards from the fire station when a volley of shots echoes across the open ground. Bullets ricochet off the rubble-strewn ground near your feet and Kate looks over her shoulder with fear stark in her eyes. You scream that you are OK and order her to keep running at all costs. More shots ring out, but they too fall wide of their mark and you are able to reach the fire station ruins unscathed.</p>
- <p>Inside you discover that much of the roof has collapsed, although you can see that one vehicle, a paramedic truck, has survived the devastation virtually unscratched.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to search this vehicle, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If choose to ignore it and press on with your escape, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You identify the brightly dressed clansman as Mekong Mike, for his tanned and moustached face bears a long-horned steer skull tattooed across the forehead. The other man, who is dressed in a black, wide-shouldered leather jacket, can be none other than Mad Dog Michigan himself. He looks older than you had imagined him, his receding hair greying slightly at the temples, yet despite his age there is no doubting the unmistakable aura of power that surrounds him. For a moment you stare into his cold grey eyes and glimpse the vengeful evil that lurks there. Then you remember the danger of your situation.</p>
- <p>Mekong Mike has drawn his pistol, but before he can fire, you rush forward and whip his wrist with the barrel of your gun. He yelps in pain and drops the Beretta auto to the floor, but there is a blade in his other hand and it is flashing towards your chest. Desperately you turn it aside. You have lost the advantage of surprise, however, and Mekong Mike seizes the initiative.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mekong Mike</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you win and the combat lasts seven rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you win and the combat lasts eight rounds or longer, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cupboard door creaks open and Kate emerges from her hiding place, her face lined with fearful concern until she sees that you are unharmed. She suggests that you search the dead clansman's body, but even as the words are leaving her lips, you hear the other clansmen rushing up the stairs to the first floor, drawn by the sound of their confederate's dying scream.</p>
- <p>Only two options are open to you as the Angelinos come running along the corridor towards the workshop: you can stand and fight, or you can leave by jumping from the first floor window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to stand and fight the approaching clansmen, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you choose to escape while you still can, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You deliver your killing blow, sending your adversary sprawling to the ground, limp and nerveless. His companion was unable to get a clear shot at you while the two of you fought hand-to-hand, so he decided that he would join in. You look to the bridge and see him running across the highway at you with a flick knife held before him at arm's length. He is screaming like a madman as he launches his first attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Supa-Nova</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bullet passes close by your shoulder, yet you reach the drug store entrance unscathed. The rear of the station wagon occupies most of the doorway, it having been parked there with its tailgate open. Inside, the luggage compartment is stacked with items looted from the store.</p>
- <p>The store's interior is very dark and it takes a few seconds for your eyes to adjust. When they do, you see a staircase at the back and you approach it cautiously. You have reached the first floor landing when there is another shot, and at once you sense the sniper's location: a room at the far end of the corridor. Silently you creep to within inches of the open door and steel yourself for an attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you possess an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, you drop the welding equipment and obey the command. Then a swarthy Angelino steps out of the shadows with a pistol in his hand. He sniggers with delight unable to hide his glee at having captured you both single-handedly and reaches into his pocket with his free hand. He removes a pair of handcuffs and tosses them casually at Kate's feet before ordering her to put them on your wrists.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Angelino tosses a pair of handcuffs casually at Kate's feet.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="560" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="560" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Kate stoops to pick up the handcuffs. But the instant her hand closes on them she hurls them back at the grinning Angelino, hitting him squarely in the face. Immediately you take your cue and spring forward, grabbing his gun before he has a chance to recover his composure. You wrestle it from his grasp, but already he is reaching for a knife, which he carries concealed in his boot. He unsheathes it and lashes out, forcing you to dive aside to avoid its razor-sharp tip.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Yellow-Cab</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the help you receive from Kate in overcoming the enemy, you may add 2 points to your close combat skill for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You back off a dozen paces to give yourself a good run at the door, then you charge forward and barge it with your shoulder. There is a tremendous crack, the door gives way, and you feel yourself falling head-first into a deep, dark hole.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If the number you have picked is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If it is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chain sails within an inch of your scalp as you duck behind the wing of your roadster. An instant later you retaliate by hurling your brace at the scout leader's bike. The tool jams between the spokes of his front wheel, causing the machine to up-end and slam its rider face-first into the river bank. Then the heavy machine crashes down with a sickening crunch, crushing the Angelino to death under the weight of its l000cc engine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you leave the car lot and return to the freeway. You pass between the shattered stores and houses of Broome with your nerves on edge, half-expecting to run into a clan patrol or fall prey to an ambush. Yet your departure passes without incident and soon you find yourself back on the open freeway heading southeast to San Angelo. You are hungry, and during your drive you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick your hand and the tickling sensation stops, as do the footsteps of the clansman. He has heard you moving. There is a click of a pistol hammer being cocked and then you hear his footsteps once more as slowly he approaches the store room door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you possess a close combat weapon, and wish to draw it to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you decide to launch an unarmed attack if the clansman opens the door, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Repeatedly you pump the gas pedal and, gradually, after a bout of coughing and popping, the engine clears and begins to pick up speed. Confident that the fault has rectified itself, you relax and accelerate away.</p>
- <p>You have driven ten miles when, on the horizon, you see a girder bridge appear. It carries the highway across the North Concho River, and, although it appears to be intact and passable, you are worried by the sight of a lazy plume of wood smoke that is rising close to its approach ramp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having briefed the convoy, you return to Sergeant Haskell on the freeway outside Fabens.</p>
- <p>'The convoy's ready to roll straight through here as soon as they see my signal flare,' you inform him.</p>
- <p>'That's great. Now all we need to do is open up the gate and let 'em go.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you possess a <typ class="item">Leviathan Missile</typ>, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you do not possess this weapon, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The race is about to begin. Eight bikers are drawn up in a line at one end of the arena, each man standing astride his machine and revving its engine in response to the loud cheers of the clansmen watching. The riders have their eyes fixed on a pot-bellied Angelino who is perched atop a wooden tower in the centre of the track. Above his head he holds a chequered flag, and, as he brings his arm down, the crowd screams and the riders surge away from the line.</p>
- <p>Under cover of the noise and commotion of the race, you approach the observation block. An enclosed corridor leads to a flight of iron stairs where two burly clansmen<ch.emdash/>one an Angelino, the other a Detroit Lion<ch.emdash/>stand on guard with machine pistols at the ready. At the top of the stairs is the door to the block itself. The noise of the crowd and the roar of the motorcycles have helped you so far, but the race is now into its fourteenth lap, and you know that if you are to succeed in freeing Kate you must get past these guards and storm the observation block before the race ends.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you possess an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you possess a <typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you possess a <typ class="item">Siren</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you possess none of these items, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is almost noon when you drive into Brogado. The storm-shattered ruins of this mountain town do not inspire much hope of finding fuel, and, after making a thorough search of its two gas stations, your initial fears are confirmed: one station has been looted and the other has been gutted by fire.</p>
- <p>It is beginning to look as though you will have to walk the last thirty miles to Kent when Marine Gunter sees a station wagon backed up to the entrance of a drug store, and he calls it to your attention. All five of you are walking along the main street towards the vehicle when a shot rings out from the first floor window of the store, and Gunter is brought to the ground, clutching his bloodstained chest.</p>
- <p>'Sniper!' shouts Sergeant Haskell. 'Hit the deck!'</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If your total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect348-1-foot" idref="sect348-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unshoulder your gun and take aim in one swift, fluid movement. The clansman is drawing back the bolt of his G-12 when you unleash a round, catching him full in the chest. The force of your gunfire lifts him off the kitchen floor and kills him instantly.<a id="sect348-1" idref="sect348-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Slowly you lower your smoking barrel and walk forward to search the body of your would-be killer.</p>
- <p>Judging from the long-horned skull painted on the back of his leather vest, you have just laid to rest your first Angelino. On the floor nearby you find his weapons and equipment: a Machine Pistol (containing eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition) and a Backpack, which holds the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Water Canteen (containing enough water for three Drinks)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Small Blanket</typ></li>
- <li>Enough bandages, sulfonamides, and antiseptics for three Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>In addition to these items, a search of the kitchen also reveals the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Meat Cleaver (3)</li>
- <li>Bread Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Enough canned food for five Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of the items in either list, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the kitchen you hide the clansman's body in an empty refrigerator. Then you hurry through the fire escape door and make your way up a flight of rusty steps that leads to a service alley at the rear of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prime your weapon and spring into the room like a tiger. A man is crouched by an open window, and, as you move towards him, he turns to meet your attack with a rifle clutched firmly in his hands. Instinctively, you raise your gun and fire a snap shot from the hip.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <p>If the weapon you are using is a Shotgun or a Machine Pistol, add 2 points to your total. If the weapon you are using is a Pistol or a Rifle, subtract 1 point from your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If your total score is now 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a brilliant flash followed by a thunderous explosion that rips a wide hole in the centre of the barricade. Those clansmen who have survived the blast run in confusion as the hot remnants of their mighty wall rain down on their heads. Haskell fires the flare, and within a few minutes the convoy appears, thundering along the freeway with the tow truck in the lead. You climb back into your roadster and follow in their wake as they stream through the shattered barricade and on towards El Paso unchallenged.</p>
- <p>You receive a warm welcome from the WDL troops, who are defending the city and the military reserve. Then you celebrate the success of your mission and your bold defeat of the Mexican clansmen at the Fabens barricade.</p>
- <p>You have indeed earned the right to celebrate, for you have freed Kate from her abductors and reached El Paso, thereby achieving everything you set out to do when you left Big Spring one week ago.</p>
- <p>The celebrations continue in El Paso for several days until the victorious mood is soured by the arrival of Mad Dog Michigan, and an army of clansmen over a thousand strong. He has persuaded the Mexicans to join his cause and now they surround El Paso with a ring of steel.</p>
- <p>Mad Dog has promised to avenge the death of his brother. Now he reaffirms that vow and delivers the additional threat that neither you, nor any of your colony, will ever get out of El Paso alive.</p>
- <p>For you, Cal Phoenix, the chance to defy Mad Dog Michigan's threat and continue your life-or-death journey to California awaits you in Book 3 of the Freeway Warrior series entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.03toz;">THE OMEGA ZONE</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Map of Western Texas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>???</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acskills.gif" width="386" height="123" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="308" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="accombat.gif" width="386" height="358" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acammo.gif" width="386" height="363" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acweapns.gif" width="386" height="383" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-<!--
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
--->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> any extra points gained through use of a close combat weapon.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> score of your enemy from your total. The resulting number is the Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio along the top of the chart and cross-reference it with the random number you have picked. (E indicates enemy's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. CP indicates Cal Phoenix's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from stage 3 until one combatant has zero <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or below, this is when he is declared dead.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>If the text offers the chance of taking evasive action instead of entering into combat, you may evade in the first round of combat or in any subsequent round.</li>
- <li>If you decide to evade after a round of combat, ignore all points lost by the enemy in that round: only Cal Phoenix loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="dtd">Dateline to Disaster</a>) Replaced <quote>training and</quote> with <quote>training, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>re-establish</quote> with <quote>reestablish</quote>, <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>, <quote>'the Freeway Warrior'.</quote> with <quote>the 'Freeway Warrior'.</quote>, <quote>fuel, food or water</quote> with <quote>fuel, food, or water</quote>, and <quote>'the Mavericks'</quote> with <quote>the 'Mavericks'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>if you pick a O</quote> with <quote>if you pick a 0</quote>, <quote>On pages 6 and 7 you will find an Action Chart</quote> with <quote>An Action Chart has been supplied</quote>, <quote>the Random Number Table at the back of this book</quote> with <quote>the Random Number Table</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote>survival skills</quote> with <quote>Survival Skills</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>For ease of use during play it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>map of Western Texas</quote> with <quote>Map of Western Texas</quote>, <quote>potassium iodine</quote> with <quote>potassium iodide</quote>, <quote>C.B. RADIO</quote> with <quote>CB RADIO</quote>, and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote>as <ch.plus/>1 If </quote> with <quote>as <ch.plus/>1. If </quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>are reduced to zero, at which point the one whose score is zero is declared dead.</quote> with <quote>are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead.</quote> and <quote>with a reduced ENDURANCE point score</quote> with <quote>with his ENDURANCE points possibly reduced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Replaced <quote>gun fire</quote> with <quote>gunfire</quote> and <quote>monumentous</quote> with <quote>monumental</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Replaced <quote>gun fire</quote> with <quote>gunfire</quote> and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>Small blanket</quote> with <quote>Small Blanket</quote>, <quote>Medi-kits units</quote> with <quote>Medi-kit units</quote>, <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>, and <quote>unleash a round of fire at the door</quote> with <quote>fire at the door</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Replaced <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>bushwack</quote> with <quote>bushwhack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>manouevre</quote> with <quote>manoeuvre</quote> and <quote>(minimum equals one; maximum equals four)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>gun fire</quote> with <quote>gunfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>H.E. Grenade</quote> with <quote>HE Grenade</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>) Replaced <quote>queueing</quote> with <quote>queuing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Replaced <quote>gun fire</quote> with <quote>gunfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>) Replaced <quote>Plastic tube</quote> with <quote>Plastic Tube</quote> and <quote>Four rounds of 12-gauge Shotgun shells</quote> with <quote>Four rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Replaced <quote>Coupe</quote> with <quote>Coup<ch.eacute/></quote> and <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>south-east</quote> with <quote>southeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Replaced <quote>despatches</quote> with <quote>dispatches</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Replaced <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect178">178</a>) Replaced <quote>machine-gunning</quote> with <quote>machine gunning</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect179">179</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum equals one; maximum equals four)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: four rounds)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>syphoned</quote> with <quote>siphoned</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>syphoning</quote> with <quote>siphoning</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>south-east</quote> with <quote>southeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Applied bold style to <quote>Foil Blanket</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>gun fire</quote> with <quote>gunfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>weapons list</quote> with <quote>Weapons List</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>) Replaced <quote>dispairing</quote> with <quote>despairing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum equals one; maximum equals four)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one burst; maximum: four bursts)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Replaced <quote>gun fire</quote> with <quote>gunfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>someobody</quote> with <quote>somebody</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>Loxoscees reclusa</quote> with <quote>Loxosceles Reclusa</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced section references. The original text directed the reader to sections <a idref="sect161">161</a> and <a idref="sect207">207</a>, however those references are the result of being apprehended by a single clansman in section <a idref="sect115">115</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Replaced <quote>botton</quote> with <quote>bottom</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>south-east</quote> with <quote>southeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Replaced <quote>H.E. Grenade</quote> with <quote>HE Grenade</quote> and <quote>checkered</quote> with <quote>chequered</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>,<a idref="sect152">152</a>,<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>,<a idref="sect23">23</a>,<a idref="sect36">36</a>,<a idref="sect63">63</a>,<a idref="sect71">71</a>,<a idref="sect101">101</a>,<a idref="sect126">126</a>,<a idref="sect138">138</a>,<a idref="sect146">146</a>,<a idref="sect183">183</a>,<a idref="sect187">187</a>,<a idref="sect232">232</a>,<a idref="sect248">248</a>,<a idref="sect266">266</a>,<a idref="sect308">308</a>,<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced CCS Bonuses in <quote>[]</quote> with <quote>()</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>,<a idref="sect64">64</a>,<a idref="sect124">124</a>,<a idref="sect207">207</a>,<a idref="sect227">227</a>,<a idref="sect253">253</a>) Replaced <quote>Backpack items</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>,<a idref="sect123">123</a>,<a idref="sect153">153</a>,<a idref="sect205">205</a>,<a idref="sect208">208</a>,<a idref="sect288">288</a>,<a idref="sect303">303</a>,<a idref="sect321">321</a>,<a idref="sect331">331</a>) Replaced <quote>'the Day'</quote> with <quote>'The Day'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>,<a idref="sect49">49</a>,<a idref="sect62">62</a>,<a idref="sect107">107</a>,<a idref="sect143">143</a>,<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>,<a idref="sect111">111</a>,<a idref="sect150">150</a>,<a idref="sect175">175</a>,<a idref="sect224">224</a>,<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>camp fire</quote> with <quote>campfire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>Combat Results Table</quote> with <quote>Close Combat Results Table</quote>, and <quote>zero ENDURANCE points</quote> with <quote>zero ENDURANCE points or below</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) This is the correct answer to the security valve puzzle in <a idref="sect129">Section 129</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect20">Section 20</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect24">Section 24</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect45">Section 45</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect68">Section 68</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect91">Section 91</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect123">Section 123</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect159">Section 159</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect178">Section 178</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect212">Section 212</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect241">Section 241</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect259">Section 259</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect268">Section 268</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect293">Section 293</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect302">Section 302</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect310">Section 310</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect328">Section 328</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect339">Section 339</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map Of Western Texas</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
-<!--
- <li><a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect339">339</a></li>
--->
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-</gamebook>
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-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.16 2005/10/09 15:01:05 angantyr
-One last fix in the errata.
-
-Revision 1.15 2005/10/09 14:26:23 angantyr
-Corrected the last oversights and issues found by Simon. Ready to publish!
-
-Revision 1.14 2005/10/01 21:32:17 angantyr
-Fixed some recent errata and added/updated footnote entries having to do
-with insufficient WILLPOWER. Also made some small illustrations adjustments.
-
-Revision 1.13 2005/08/21 20:46:13 angantyr
-Added/modified footnotes and modified small illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.12 2005/08/15 17:16:09 jonathan.blake
-Fixed the laughable "Isle of Loin" OCR error.
-
-Revision 1.11 2005/08/15 16:42:39 jonathan.blake
-no message
-
-Revision 1.10 2005/08/14 19:44:15 angantyr
-Corrected various *ne issues.
-
-Revision 1.9 2005/08/12 23:23:51 jonathan.blake
-Minor updates and illustration corrections.
-
-Revision 1.8 2005/08/10 20:04:22 jonathan.blake
-Fixed a number of issues centering on the Black Rod and also Section 103.
-
-Revision 1.7 2005/07/14 17:36:39 jonathan.blake
-Fixed issues from Editor and Simon's reports about captions.
-
-Revision 1.6 2005/07/13 03:47:27 jonathan.blake
-Added illustrations for Powers section.
-
-Revision 1.5 2005/07/12 14:20:28 jonathan.blake
-Made valid. Still needs Bonner's Powers illustrations, reorder small illustration list.
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/04/21 15:53:05 jonathan.blake
-jffdougan said: Added illustrations, implemented minor approved fixes
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/21 17:54:55 angantyr
-Initial Freepository revision, of the 2004-06-20 version of the file.
-
-Revision 1.7 2003/10/25 16:00:00 twolmer
-2003-10-17:
-- fixed the errata entry for sect307
-- changed the filenames of the magicks illustrations
-2003-10-18:
-- fixed illustrationns list
-2003-10-23:
-- removed some junk
-
-Revision 1.6 2003/10/16 03:08:56 Jon
-Removed spurious numbers from the <creator class="long">
-
-Revision 1.5 2003/10/15 18:00:00 twolmer
-finally implementing the errata
-2003-08-30:
-- fixed *ne and added missing errata entry
-2003-08-31:
-- started fixing errata - with errata tags!
-2003-09-07:
-- fixed errata up to section 100 (well actually 96)
-2003-09-14:
-- fixed the rest of the errata except some open issues
-- implemented most footnotes, some not reviewed!
-- populated the Footnotes section
-2003-10-07:
-- added Chris's illustrations in the powers section (preliminary only)
-2003-10-12:
-- added the rest of the outstanding errata and footnotes after Jon's comments
-- encoded Shield of Sorcery as a <spell>
-
-Revision 1.4 2003/02/17 16:00:00 twolmer
-2003-02-16:
-- DTD 0.11 (well, it was already OK since there's no footnotes
-- added map and action chart
-- updated contributions
-
-Revision 1.3 2003/01/20 01:00:00 twolmer
-2003-01-15:
-- Chewing through the frontmatter...
-2003-01-17:
-- Fixed copyright, dedication, blurb
-2003-01-18:
-- fixed link encoding problems in sections 32, 130, 168
-- sorted Simon's errata list below
-- finished frontmatter, applied standard errata fixes there
-- fixed all the quote stuff
-- encoded all á and é
-- encoded all the &emdash; and &endash;
-- added backmatter (copied from GStW), including some errata entries
-- marked lots of errata stuff in the sections
-2003-01-19:
-- compiled an even better errata list below
-- fixed lots of *ne errors
-- fixed some of the more encoding-critical errata
-- validated the file
-
-Remains:
-- loads of errata
-
-Revision 1.2 2003/01/20 00:57:33 jblake
-Checkin of changes prior to Thomas Wolmer's checkin.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 05:53:46 jblake
-Initial revision
-
--->
-<!--
-Small illustration summaries:
-small1: starburst
-small2: barren hillside, conifers in the background
-small3: city skyline
-small4: ruined cityscape through rain
-small5: plains, hills/mountains in background
-small6: Deathgaunt head
-small7: vertical canyon walls
-small8: spellbook
-small9: equipment bundle
-small10: ruined cityscape (looks very similar to small4 - better scan of same?)
-small11: sword, axe, & shield
--->
- <meta>
- <title>The Forbidden City</title>
- <creator class="short">Ian Page and Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Ian Page<br />Illustrated by Paul Bonner<br />Edited by Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.ian.page.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.paul.bonner.bio.gs;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>10</month><day>09</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the Wizard Grey Star. Your quest is to retrieve the legendary Moonstone and with its power throw down the evil Wytch-king. You must find the Shadow Gate&emdash;doorway to the magic realm where it lies hidden. When the moon is full, the Shadow Gate appears&emdash;in Desolation Valley beyond the Mountains of Morn, where you must dare <!--ERRTAG-RE-6558--><strong>The Forbidden City</strong><!--/ERRTAG-RE-6558-->.</p>
- <p>The Wytch-king will try to track you down. His slaves will dog your every step&emdash;the cruel warriors of Shadaki, the phantom spirit of the Deathgaunt and the dark horror of the demon <!--ERRTAG-RE-6876-->Kleasá<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6876-->. Only your <!--ERRTAG-RE-6952-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6952--> and the might of your Wizard's Staff can protect you in a terrifying adventure of madness, magic and menace!</p>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-7203--><cite>The World of Lone Wolf</cite><!--/ERRTAG-RE-7203--> is an exciting adventure series in which you are the hero, you make the decisions, and you fight the combats using the unique systems included in the book.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Concept copyright © 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk. <br />Text copyright © 1985 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Paul Bonner.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Concept copyright © 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.<br />Text copyright © 1985 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Paul Bonner.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Julie</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="coming" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Ryan Cross</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan <br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Replacement Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Christopher Lundgren (map and small illustrations)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
-<!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd> -->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <!-- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd />-->
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="coming">
- <meta>
- <title>Of the Coming of Grey Star</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a pace to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this new-found land.</p>
- <p>To the delight of the Shianti, the race of man first emerged at this time and they watched his early struggle towards civilization with eager concern. Like gods, the Shianti seemed to the minds of primitive men. Tall and proud, shining with a radiance that spoke of magic and arcane mystery, the Shianti moved among them and with their powers of wizardry, aided man in his development.</p>
- <p>As the centuries passed, man fell to worship of the magical Shianti and the power of these wizards grew even stronger. With hungry hearts they sought to unlock the mysteries of knowledge, sending their minds into other planes of existence and strange worlds beyond the sphere of the material plane. Their foresight was now unmatched and the power of their thought was mighty indeed. It was at this time that they created the Moonstone. Woven of the very fabric of the astral plane of Daziarn, this translucent gem was the greatest achievement of Shianti wisdom. It was the binding force of all Shianti magic, containing the combined might of all their <!--ERRTAG-RE-7887-->wizardry<!--/ERRTAG-RE-7887-->, the sum of all their knowledge. The Golden Age of the Shianti had come and the Moonstone was the instrument of their dominion throughout all Magnamund. Man stood as little more than a shadow, blinded by the shining white light of Shianti glory. But, in creating the Moonstone, the unwritten laws of nature had been transgressed. For the Moonstone, like the Shianti themselves, was something outside of man's own world; it defied the natural order laid down by the creators of the Earth and disrupted the balance that the gods had designed.</p>
- <p>The Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon and mother of all men, showed herself to the Shianti and spoke to them of the destiny of man: <quote>The children of this world must claim their inheritance. Their time has come and they must learn to stand alone. They are lost in their worship of you and the day draws ever nearer when they will covet the power of the Moonstone.</quote></p>
- <p>And the Shianti said: <quote>Forgive us, Great Goddess, for we intended no harm. We love mankind even as you do. We have sought to do good and protect your children from harm.</quote></p>
- <p>But Ishir replied, <quote>Of this there can be no doubt, but this world is not your realm. Man must be free to pursue his destiny alone, and you must leave, for you trespass on his domain.</quote></p>
- <p>The Shianti were filled with sorrow. They feared a return to the void and to their lonely wandering, and pleaded with Ishir that she might allow them to remain. Ishir was filled with pity for them. She spoke again, saying, <quote>If you are to remain, you must obey my command. You must take a vow never to interfere with mankind's fate. As a token of good faith you must lay aside the Moonstone, and return it to the plane where it belongs.</quote></p>
- <p>Solemnly, the Shianti agreed. The vow was sworn before Ishir, and the Moonstone was returned to the Daziarn. The Shianti then moved south to the Isle of Lorn. They encircled their new home with a web of enchantments, magical mists and mage winds to prevent man from ever finding their place of refuge in the Sea of Dreams. Knowledge of the Shianti faded with time, save in southern Magnamund where it became enshrined in legend, and the worship of them endured. Priests of the Shianti religion preserved their teachings and patiently awaited the day when the <quote>ancient ones</quote> would return, bringing with them lasting peace and the blessing of a new golden age.</p>
- <p>Two thousand years strode by and man advanced as Ishir had foretold. He built great cities and cultivated the land; his kingdoms rose and fell; he made war and loved and laughed and became master of his fate. But a new power was emerging in the province of Shadaki. There Shasarak the evil Wytch-king ruled. The black necromancer commanded an army of brutal soldiers and had a devoted following of men who upheld his religion of demonic worship and sacrificial rites. Devotees of the Shianti and other religious cults were persecuted in a merciless purge. Ruthlessly, the Wytch-king destroyed all his opponents and began a terrible war with the peoples of the neighbouring provinces. From the ruins of war Shasarak shaped the Shadakine Empire, subjugating whole nations to his evil rule. As the provinces fell to his might, the Shianti looked on helplessly, bound by their vow to the Goddess Ishir never to interfere in the affairs of man.</p>
- <p>On the night of the crowning of Shasarak as Overlord of the Shadakine Empire, a great storm broke upon the Sea of Dreams, a storm that raged with unnatural intensity. Lashed by wind and rain, illuminated by wild lightning, the waters heaved and danced in fury to the thundering music of the storm, unchecked by even the enchantments of the Shianti. When finally the tempest died, the Shianti looked out in amazement on the shattered hull of a ship drifting towards their shore. Never before had this occurred, for the enchantments and mage winds had kept them secure from the curiosity of man by forcing him to sail close to his own land.</p>
- <p>The Shianti went quickly to the ruined ship where they found only one survivor&emdash;a baby. They perceived the sudden arrival of this human child as a sign of great portent, and they conceived a plan by which they might lawfully aid mankind. They named the orphan child Grey Star, because a star is the symbol of hope in the Shianti faith, and because of the silver streak in the child's jet-black hair. In the shadow of the wrath of the Goddess Ishir, they raised the child as one of their own and taught him their secrets. Diligently they set about their instruction, for their aim was to provide a saviour for mankind. Armed with the might of Shianti wizardry and wisdom, their hope was to create an adversary equal in power to the evil Wytch-king of Shadaki, for they realized that only with the death of Shasarak would man once more be free to determine his destiny.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="coming" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grey Star, trained in the ancient lore of a Shianti Wizard. For sixteen years you dwelt in safety on the Isle of Lorn, the hidden realm of the magical Shianti race, until Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti sent you upon a dangerous quest to save your own people, the race of man, from Shasarak, the tyrannical Wytch-king of Shadaki. Held by their ancient vow to the goddess Ishir, the Shianti are unable to leave their island and come to the aid of man themselves. As a human, no such promise prohibits you from leaving the island and you have been sent to recover the Moonstone and use its power to throw down the Wytch-king.</p>
- <p>The Moonstone, an artefact possessing the combined force of all Shianti power, is hidden on the Daziarn plane, which can only be entered by finding one of its portals. You seek the Shadow Gate, but it never remains in one place for longer than a day and is invisible to human sight. For this reason you began to search for the <quote>Lost Tribe of Lara,</quote> a race of magical, but primitive creatures called the Kundi. They possess the gift of Astral Vision, enabling them to see magic portals and gateways to other planes and dimensions. Once, the Kundi inhabited the forests of the Mountains of Lara. When Shasarak's Shadakine army first invaded the free provinces of the south, they came by way of the Mountains of Lara, through the Morn Pass. The Shadakine armies were constantly ambushed and delayed by the Kundi as they made their way south, and the Kundi always eluded them, disappearing into the dense forest before the Shadakine could retaliate. Finally, in desperation, the Wytch-king burnt down the mountain's forests and the Kundi were forced to flee from his wrath and disappeared. Only the vision and the guidance of a Kundi man will enable you to enter the Daziarn plane and find the Moonstone, and less than a month ago you began your search.</p>
- <p>Voyaging across the Sea of Dreams, you came first to the city of Suhn, the largest port in the Shadakine Empire. There you befriended a cheerful merchant named Shan Li, a widely travelled man with a wry sense of humour. Your questions about the Lost Tribe, enemies of the Shadakine Empire, aroused much suspicion. You were taken to the dungeons of the House of Correction, the Shadakine prison of Suhn and subjected to the truthsay of Mother Magri, Shadakine Wytch and Law-giver. With the power of the Kazim Stone, she attempted to read your mind, but you were able to preserve the secret of your quest.</p>
- <p>It was with the help of Tanith, a young, beautiful girl, learning the ways of wytchcraft in the service of Mother Magri, that you made your escape from the House of Correction. Her courage and intelligence were invaluable as you escaped the pursuit of the Shadakine. With Shan as your guide you eventually turned south and headed toward the region known as the Azanam, for it seemed likely that the Lost Tribe might be found there. But the vengeance of Mother Magri was not so easily avoided. Using the power of the Kazim Stone, she summoned a Kleasá, a demon shadow that feeds upon the soul and will of others, since it has no soul of its own. Neither your Magical Powers, nor the might of your Wizard's Staff seemed able to defeat the Kleasá and it had almost destroyed you when Tanith cast a spell and called the demon against her. She was totally consumed by the Kleasá and both disappeared in flame. Her brave sacrifice saved your life.</p>
- <p>With a heavy heart, you and Shan continued south, entering the arid desert of the Azagad Gorge. Here, Shan fell, poisoned and consumed by a Quoku, the flying amphibian indigenous to those parts. After a desperate chase through the tunnels of a Cave Mantiz nest (giant insects that lair within the cliff) you eventually reached the jungles of the Azanam, and there, high in their towering treetop home, you found the Lost Tribe of Lara. But your arrival was met with great suspicion: the Kundi did not believe that you had been sent by the Shianti. In the house of Okosa, the Kundi King, Urik the wise, their strange, eccentric shaman and elder of their tribe, challenged you to prove you were truly sent by the Shianti by answering a strange riddle:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>Wise Shianti and Kundi man<!--ERRTAG-AD-21154-->,<!--/ERRTAG-AD-21154-->
- <br />Look eye to eye in tree,
- <br />Shianti man see Kundi man,
- <br />But what does Kundi see?</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>To discover the answer to the riddle and to continue your search for the Moonstone and the Shadow Gate that leads there, turn to <a idref="sect1"><!--ERRTAG-RE-21566-->Section 1<!--/ERRTAG-RE-21566--></a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="powers" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>If you have completed <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>, your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score will be zero before you begin this book. It doesn't seem fair to start this book with only 10 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, so you may choose to create a new <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score by choosing a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and adding 20. You may also choose to add the 10 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point bonus to this new score.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may wish to use your original <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score from the beginning of <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>, and add 10 bonus points to this.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2"><p>If you choose Alchemy as your new Magical Power, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a> section.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-4-foot" idref="gamerulz-4"><p>There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-3-foot" idref="gamerulz-3"><p>It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you have already completed <a href="&link.01gstw;"><!--ERRTAG-RE-22045--><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite><!--/ERRTAG-RE-22045--></a> (<a href="&link.01gstw;">Book 1</a> of the World of Lone Wolf series), you already have your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and your <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-->s. In the course of your adventure your powers of wizardry have grown and so you may add 10 to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> and choose one more <a idref="powers"><!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355--></a><a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote" />. All weapons and Special Items that you held at the end of <a href="&link.01gstw;">Book 1</a> should be entered on a fresh <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You are now ready to begin this adventure.</p>
- <p>If this is your first adventure, read on&ellips;</p>
- <p>To keep a record of your adventure, use the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Before you set off on your adventure, you must discover how well your Shianti masters have prepared you for your quest by determining your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;your state of mind&emdash;<typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>&emdash;and your physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To do this take a pencil and, with eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have a <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> of 26). If you decide to use a spell or utilize the power of your Wizard's Staff, then you will lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero, you may not use any of your spells<a id="gamerulz-4" idref="gamerulz-4-foot" class="footnote" /> or your Wizard's Staff.<a id="gamerulz-3" idref="gamerulz-3-foot" class="footnote"/> Lost <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, and it is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to rise above the total with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p>The third number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). If you are wounded in combat, you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure but can never rise above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="powers">
- <meta>
- <title>Magical Powers</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="powers-1-foot" idref="powers-1"><p>If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you start your adventure, your education in the ways of wizardry is incomplete. You have mastered only <em>five</em> of the seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-->s that the Shianti call the <typ class="ital"><!--ERRTAG-RA-23432-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23432--></typ>. The choice of which <!--ERRTAG-RA-24762-->five Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24762--> these are, is up to you. All of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-23432-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23432--> will be of use to you at some point on your quest, so choose them with care. Your survival may depend on the correct use of a <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355--> at the right time.</p>
- <p>The seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-->s available to you are listed below. When you have chosen your <!--ERRTAG-RA-24762-->five Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24762-->, enter them in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-->s section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sorcery">
- <meta><title>Sorcery</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="386" height="122" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="sorcery-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="sorcery-ill" class="accent-illustration" />This <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> allows a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than any other <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-->, and is most effective when your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points are high.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-->, write <quote>Sorcery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="enchant">
- <meta><title>Enchantment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="386" height="130" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="enchant-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="enchant-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-->, write <quote>Enchantment</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="elementl">
- <meta><title>Elementalism</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="386" height="118" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="elementl-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="elementl-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-->, write <quote>Elementalism</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Alchemy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="386" height="121" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="alchemy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="alchemy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />A wizard who possesses the <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e., <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>), or temporarily improve various abilities (e.g., <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>). The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-29662-->Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-29662--> may also allow a wizard to alter the nature of substances (e.g., change lead into gold), but the necessary ingredients and the correct equipment (e.g., a pestle and mortar) must be at hand. The use of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> of Alchemy drains no <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> write <quote>Alchemy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prophecy">
- <meta><title>Prophecy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="386" height="123" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="prophecy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="prophecy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> of <!--ERRTAG-RA-302781-->Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RA-302781--> allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> of <!--ERRTAG-RA-302781-->Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RA-302781-->.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-->, write <quote>Prophecy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psycmncy">
- <meta><title>Psychomancy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="386" height="126" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="psycmncy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="psycmncy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />This <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-->, write <quote>Psychomancy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evcation">
- <meta><title>Evocation</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="386" height="131" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="evcation-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="evcation-ill" class="accent-illustration" />Mastery of this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836--> permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-->, write <quote>Evocation</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="staff">
- <meta><title>Wizard's Staff</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="386" height="120" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="staff-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="staff-ill" class="accent-illustration" />Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="powers-1" idref="powers-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in close combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and multiply the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy, accordingly. For example, if you chose to expend 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on your attack, all enemy <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses would be multiplied by three.</p>
- <p>If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="powers" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-1-foot" idref="equipmnt-1"><p>If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <!-- WOLM: formatting aligned with GStW, this is is not noted as errata -->
- <data>
- <p>You wear the grey robe and hooded cloak of a Shianti Wizard. Your only weapon is your Wizard's Staff (note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under Weapons). You wear a Backpack containing 4 Meals (note under Meals on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), and you have been given a <a idref="map">map of the Shadakine Empire</a> (note under Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) which you place inside your robe.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen Alchemy as one of your <!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-->s, then you will have a leather pouch for herbs and potions hanging from your belt. The Herb Pouch contains the following:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>2 empty Vials for carrying potions</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Saltpetre</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Sulphur</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>Mark these 4 items in your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Your Herb Pouch will carry a maximum of eight items.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Wizard's Staff&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Backpack&emdash;slung over the shoulder.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is <em>two</em>. Your Wizard's Staff counts as one weapon.</dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack, When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
-
- <dt>Nobles (Shadakine currency)</dt>
- <dd>These are carried in the pocket of your robe.</dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
-
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given Capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.<a id="equipmnt-1" idref="equipmnt-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>Your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> depends on your Wizard's Staff. If you do not possess your Staff when you enter combat you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat without a weapon, deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry <em>two</em> weapons at once.)</dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember that you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at any one time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</dd>
-
- <dt>Currency</dt>
- <dd>The currency of the Shadakine Empire is the Noble, which is a small jade stone. The system of money is alien to the Shianti, and for this reason you begin your adventure with no money. Whenever you kill an enemy, you may take any Nobles belonging to him and keep them in the pocket of your robe.</dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="sage" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Grey Star's aim during the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while at the same time losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Calculate your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total, based on the weapon you are using. (Remember, if you enter combat without your Staff, you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points.)</p></li>
- <li><p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p><a id="stage3">If you are using your Wizard's Staff</a>, decide how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use. (Remember, you must expend at least 1 point.) Enter this number on your Combat Record in the box marked <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Grey Star (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> 23) is ambushed by a Deathgaunt (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but he can use his Wizard's Staff against the creature as it swoops down on him. He subtracts the Deathgaunt's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −5. (15 − 20 = −5). −5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio. Grey Star decides to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, which is noted on the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> box of the Combat Record.</p></li>
- <li><p>When you have decided upon the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use, and you have determined your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it With the random number that you have picked. (The random numbers appear on the side of the chart.) You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by Grey Star. To calculate the number lost by the enemy, multiply this by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points that Grey Star elected to use. Now you have the final number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Grey Star and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; GS represents points lost by Grey Star.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Grey Star and the Deathgaunt has been established as −5, and Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used as 2. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Grey Star loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Deathgaunt loses 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, multiplied by 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, giving a total of 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in all.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat, and Grey Star's amended <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Grey Star are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Grey Star is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Grey Star proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points reduced.</p>
-
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Grey Star may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sage">
- <meta>
- <title>Sage Advice</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to embark on a quest of great peril, for your journey will take you to an unknown land that is dominated by evil. Refer to the <a idref="map">map</a> and make notes as you progress through the story: they are sure to be of great help to you in future adventures.</p>
- <p>You will discover items that could be of help to you on your quest. Some Special Items may aid you in future Grey Star adventures, others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Be cautious in your use of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, as your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is the energy source for your Magical Powers and your Wizard's Staff. A score of zero <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points will leave you weak and vulnerable to attack, unable to offer effective resistance.</p>
- <p>Follow the path of wisdom, Wizard Grey Star. The way of fools is the road to destruction.</p>
- <p>Good luck.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta>
- <title>Numbered Sections</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is silent. Okosa, the Kundi king, his servants, and Urik, the old Shaman of the Kundi tribe, look on intently as you concentrate on the strange riddle. Suddenly, the solution crystallizes in your mind.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><thought>Wise Shianti and Kundi man,<br />Look eye to eye&ellips;</thought></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Of course! The eyes of the Shianti race have pupils like mirrored glass. Anyone looking into the eyes of a Shianti would see themselves reflected there.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><thought>Shianti man see Kundi man<br />But what does Kundi see?</thought></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The Kundi man would see <em>himself!</em></p>
- <p>You give your answer. At once, the tension in the atmosphere evaporates. The expressions on the faces of the assembled Kundi men change to a mixture of awe and respect, and Urik bows low. <quote>Welcome friend,</quote> he says, simply.</p>
- <p>King Okosa steps forward and grips your hand firmly. <quote>Forgive us,</quote> he says. <quote>These troubled times&ellips; Shadakine wear many disguises. Evil have many faces. We give all help to Shianti child now we know he speak truth.</quote></p>
- <p>You breathe a great sigh of relief, for without the aid of the Kundi your quest is doomed to failure. Only the eyes of a Kundi man are able to see the magical Shadow Gate, the door you must open before entering the realm of the Daziarn Plane where the Moonstone of the Shianti is hidden.</p>
- <p>The exhaustion and fatigue of your adventure on your way to the cloud forest floods through you like a great wave that washes through your tired limbs. Before you can speak your thanks, you fall into a faint.</p>
- <p>Through the haze of a dream, your senses pass from sleep to waking. Opening your eyes, you see the wrinkled face of Urik, gazing intently into your own. <quote>How&ellips; how long?</quote> you falter.</p>
- <p><quote>Three days. Three nights. Deep sleep have healing ways&emdash;is true?</quote> Urik replies. You sit up in the hammock that has been your resting place these past three days and look around. Bright sunlight streams in through the window of the wooden chamber. The events of the past weeks rush through your mind. With some surprise, you note that your body is unmarked after the horrors of your ordeal. Even the Mantiz bite on your leg has disappeared.</p>
- <p><quote>Kundi magic,</quote> Urik explains, mysteriously. Your tattered, grey robes, washed and repaired, are laid out for you, and when you have breakfasted on fresh <!--ERRTAG-RE-45701-->rainwater<!--/ERRTAG-RE-45701--> and honey cakes, you are led out to meet King Okosa once more. You marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the cloud forest that is the home of the Kundi people. Urik leads, shambling along with his comical, bow-legged walk and toothless smile and you cross the wooden walkways that connect the tree houses of the Kundi. They nestle amongst the highest branches of giant Azawood trees, whose towering heights and leafy peaks draw moisture from the clouds themselves: the wooden turrets of a forest castle surrounded by an ocean of cloud.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The wooden turrets of a forest castle, surrounded by an ocean of cloud</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="635"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="635"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You are brought before the Kundi king once more. He and his advisers are gathered in the largest of the tree houses and old Urik ushers you in. <quote>You are well?</quote> the king asks. You nod your head and thank him and his people for treating you with such kindness.</p>
- <p><quote>Long ago,</quote> the king continues, <quote>before Wytch-king, Shasarak, rose in the north, the Shianti and Kundi tribes&emdash;great friends. Shianti need magical sight of Kundi to look into other worlds, see other planes. Only Shianti can go there. Only Kundi can see there&ellips; We help each other. Learn many things. But when Shianti leave, Wytch-king lead Shadakine peoples against us, burning the forests of our home in Mountains of Lara. Now, Shianti send great wizard to destroy evil Wytch-king, throw down Shadakine. Kundi men give all their help, in honour of our friendship. How we aid you?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I must travel to the Daziarn plane and reclaim the Moonstone of old,</quote> you reply. <quote>My masters tell me that I must seek out the Shadow Gate, the doorway that is invisible to all but the eyes of the noble Kundi. I ask you for a guide to take me there.</quote></p>
- <p>The king creases his brow. <quote>Shadow Gate come and go; never in one place for long,</quote> says King Okosa. <quote>Kundi eyes must see far; make prophecy for next place Shadow Gate appear. Only the keenest eyes among us can help you. I will name your guide.</quote> You search amongst the faces of those present, wondering which of the brave Kundi men will be chosen. <quote>Grey Star, I give you Urik the Wise,</quote> says the king, with a gesture of the hand.</p>
- <p>You look with some surprise at Okosa's choice. Urik smiles back, a great toothless grin, and bows humbly. The Shaman looks far too old and frail to be able to face the likely dangers ahead, but without the <quote>sight</quote> of the ageing Shaman, your quest is hopeless. Perhaps, you think doubtfully, he has other talents?</p>
- <p><quote>Waste no time. Start now,</quote> Urik says. <quote>Urik find Shadow Gate. Wizard see some <em>Kundi</em> magic now!</quote> He flashes you a sly smile. Not for the first time, you get the feeling that Urik is mocking you with his jibes about magic and wizards, as if he knows some great secret that others do not.</p>
- <p><quote>I work a great spell,</quote> he announces to everyone, like an actor addressing an audience. <quote>Stand back! Give me room! I must find the Shadow Gate.</quote> A large circle forms and you watch Urik stride to the centre, his tail lashing and eyes glaring. You watch with some curiosity as he turns around and around, slowly at first, gradually increasing speed. He breathes deeply and often, hissing as he expels each breath from his lungs. Rags and feathers flutter and the tiny bells that he is wearing ring furiously. Soon, he is shouting and gibbering like a lunatic, arms waving in the air. You are barely able to suppress a snort of laughter but quickly check yourself, noticing that the Kundi look on with sombre expressions. Suddenly, Urik gives an ear-piercing scream, ceases his crazed, whirling dance and spins to the floor, where he collapses in a heap. Startled, you go to help him but feel a restraining hand on your arm. <quote>No,</quote> a young Kundi man whispers. <quote>It is the trance. The rite is over&emdash;the visions come.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You mean there's more!</quote> you exclaim. Indeed, the show is not yet over. Urik has been silent for a short time, save for the panting of his protesting lungs. He sits up, straight-backed and stiff-limbed, his eyes wide and staring.</p>
- <p><quote>I see mountains!</quote> he moans. <quote>Black mountains! And beyond&ellips; a wide valley, dead land, ash and dust. Everywhere darkness, darkness and&ellips; I&ellips; I see it&emdash;the Shadow Gate&emdash;beneath the light of a full moon.</quote></p>
- <p>After heated discussion, all are agreed that the black mountains of Urik's vision must be the infamous Mountains of Mom, and the dead lands beyond, Desolation Valley, a wasted plain that lies on the other side of the mountains&emdash;the site of an ancient calamity. As Urik saw a full moon shining above the Shadow Gate, the Kundi are sure that it will appear somewhere in Desolation Valley at that time.</p>
- <p><quote>Already it is the time of the new moon,</quote> says King Okosa.</p>
- <p><quote>Two weeks,</quote> you breathe.</p>
- <p><quote>Two weeks, Grey Star,</quote> says the king, <quote>and two hundred miles of Shadakine country, difficult mountains and unknown wilderness, lie <!--ERRTAG-RE-51012-->ahead. You<!--/ERRTAG-RE-51012--> have little time.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What do you think, Urik?</quote> you say.</p>
- <p>Urik's ugly old face breaks into a knowing smile. <quote>Little time&ellips; much to do!</quote> he says, jovially. <quote>Urik have plan&emdash;cover many miles in just one day, leave Azanam far behind.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But how,</quote> you ask. <quote>When?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Great wizard must learn much patience,</quote> he replies. <quote>You will see. Be ready to leave tomorrow at first light.</quote> Urik will say no more and quickly leaves. You turn to the Kundi king. He merely shrugs his shoulders.</p>
- <p><quote>Ways of the wise are strange,</quote> he says, <quote>and who dare question the path of wisdom?</quote> he finishes, cryptically. Like many Kundi sayings, it is one that begs no answer. It seems you have no choice other than to wait until tomorrow's dawn to find out the Shaman's plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Urik has routed out a supply of Lianor and hands you three of the blue tubers. Each tuber counts as one Meal and you store them in your Backpack. You set off at once, for the success of your quest depends on haste.</p>
- <p>You travel for two days, through the swamp forest, clambering over a jumble of twisted roots. It is a tiring journey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you do not have this Power, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the Pipes and blow but no sound emerges. Despite your brave efforts, you are cut down by the brutal Shadakine before the howling mob has reached you.</p>
- <p>Your quest has failed and your life is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A vast, amorphous mass of slime and mud, wreathed with vines and dead vegetation, rises up out of the quagmire you have just passed. It reaches out and grabs you while you remain entranced, and presses you against its filth-encrusted body in a crushing bear hug. (Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) You are being held by a Swamp Giant and it intends to squeeze the life out of you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>A mass of slime and mud rises up out of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-63316-->quagmire; it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-63316--> is a Swamp Giant</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Swamp Giant</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess the Magic Talisman of the Shianti, add 2 to this score.</p>
- <p>If you possess the Silver Charm of Jnana the Wise, add 1 to this score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If your total is now 0&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If your total is now 8&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wizard skilled in the use of Sorcery is able to use the power of a Mind Gem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you possess this <!--ERRTAG-RE-54835-->Special Item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-54835-->, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you do not have a Mind Gem, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still within the vision, you point towards the Element of Air. It floats towards you and you feel it entering the domain of the Earth. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When you open your eyes, you see that the Shadakine have already reached the edge of the lake. Their leader shouts commands and they move into position, loading their weapons and preparing to fire. There is no sign of the Air Elementals.</p>
- <p>The Shadakine leader gives a shout and the Shadakine warriors release a volley of crossbow bolts in your direction. Instinctively, you and Urik dive to the ground. You are dismayed; it seems that the <!--ERRTAG-RE-55869-->Elementals<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55869--> have failed you. Then suddenly, a burst of astonished cries comes from the Shadakine as a colossal gust of wind tears past you. Looking up, you watch as the volley of quarrels is swept up and away by a whirlwind of dust and debris. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-56160-->Elemental<!--/ERRTAG-RE-56160--> stands, man-high before you, the faint outline of a pair of eyes shining up from within the depths of its form. It is a Whirlghast, and the bolts of the Shadakine are unable to pass through it.</p>
- <p><quote>Urik,</quote> you call, <quote>can we do anything about the Eijalfish?</quote> Another volley of bolts flies towards you, but they are spun in all directions by the Whirlghast. Urik produces a small boomerang from his tunic. Its edge is lined with a row of razor-sharp teeth. <quote>I try,</quote> he says.</p>
- <p>Taking careful aim, he throws the boomerang towards the eyestalks of the Eijalfish. His aim is true; the boomerang slices an eye from its stalk before returning to land at his feet. Green blood marks the spot where the Eijalfish once lingered. <quote>We go now?</quote> Urik asks, a mischievous grin on his face as he bends to pick up his weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you regain consciousness you find yourself in a bed in the Shadakine fortress. Urik is with you, his eyes full of concern. <quote>How did I get here?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Samu, he carry you here. Him big man&ellips; fierce warrior.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How did the battle go?</quote> Urik tells you of the victory of the Freedom Guild and the complete rout of all Shadakine forces within the city. A small blow has been struck for freedom against Shasarak, the evil Wytch-king.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133"><link-text>Turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip into a deserted side street, Urik tut-tutting in your ear.</p>
- <p><quote>Such noise! Such fuss! Wizard like to prove himself, eh?</quote></p>
- <p>You give Urik a hard stare but resist the urge to snap back at him. <quote>How are we going to get out of here?</quote> you mutter.</p>
- <p><quote>Who knows; start another fire perhaps?</quote> replies Urik, sarcastically. You turn to face Urik and begin to argue until suddenly Urik falls quiet and pales; he points behind you. You turn to see a tall shadow looming towards you out of the darkness, a huge, bloody broadsword in one hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great shambling mass moves ponderously towards you. You can discern the outline of arms and legs but no more. It reaches out, seeking to hug you in a deathly embrace.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Swamp Giant</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gap in the undergrowth that leads into the clearing is very narrow and the Shadakine can pass through only a few at a time. Three Shadakine warriors charge towards you, bellowing a savage <!--ERRTAG-RE-59625-->battle-cry<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59625-->. To your surprise, Urik produces a small boomerang edged with razor-sharp teeth. He wields it with great skill and accuracy. With a stunned cry, the first of the Shadakine falls to the ground, his sword arm severed by Urik's deadly weapon. Two Shadakine remain and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warriors</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Since the swamp region is an infertile place unlikely to yield food, Urik hands you enough Lianor for three Meals. Each tuber counts as one Meal and you store them in your Backpack. As you descend the hill, the air becomes increasingly humid, impairing your breathing. You step on to the mud flat and begin to make your way across. You have travelled no more that a mile when, suddenly, Urik sinks into a bog. With great effort, you manage to pull him free. Another mile or so and it is you who stumbles into a bog. Fortunately, Urik acts quickly and pulls you to safety. Solemnly Urik informs you that the bogs are likely to become more frequent from now on. If you should both become trapped at the same time, there will be no escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it to lessen the danger, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not have this Magical Power or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave your state of trance in time to see a large greenish mass of slime and mud rise from the mire. You step back and prepare for combat. The amorphous mass of dead vegetation and trailing creepers is a Swamp Giant and it is hungry for your blood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You locate the glow of the Kazim Stone. There, you encounter the mind of the Shadakine Wytch, intent upon her labours over the Stone&emdash;so intent, in fact, that she fails to notice your <!--ERRTAG-RE-62229-->presence, hovering<!--/ERRTAG-RE-62229--> at the edges of her mind, gauging its power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The answer comes swiftly. A crossbow bolt sings through the air, released by a Shadakine who is hidden by the tall marsh grass. The Ooslo screeches with pain as the bolt penetrates its body.</p>
- <p>You, Urik, and the wounded Ooslo drop like a stone towards the murky waters of a shallow lake that is dotted with small sand banks. As you fall, you pray that the water will be deep enough to save you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are loath to waste time: only ten days remain for you to reach Desolation Valley. Nevertheless, you cannot but wonder just who, or what, could be following you.</p>
- <p>The evening draws in and still there is no sign of your pursuer. Urik sights a small grove of trees and suggests that you shelter there for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to do as Urik suggests, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to trap your pursuer before sleeping, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it to discover the identity of your pursuer, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you wake, a chill fever grips your body; it is the touch of the Deathgaunt, spreading through your veins like a river of ice. You are too weak to travel any further today and your body is hungry for sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you possess the Magical Power of Alchemy and have some Azawood leaves in your Herb Pouch, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If not, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk down to the bank of the fast-flowing river. It is not particularly wide, but Samu warns you that its current is swift enough to sweep a man away if due caution is not exercised. He goes first, diving into the river and swimming with long, powerful strokes. Each of you follows in turn.</p>
- <p>As you reach the centre of the river, you gasp as the current buffets you and, inadvertently, you swallow some of its brackish water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 15 or higher, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 14 or lower, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The momentum of your attack carries you past the shouting courtiers and through the archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to turn left along the passage outside, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to turn right along the same passage, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect20-1-foot" idref="sect20-1"><p>Turn directly to <a idref="sect149">Section 149</a> if the Magdi is still alive after 4 rounds. Do not finish the combat.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path back to the waterway is blocked by the advancing Shadakine and you are forced to enter a dense border of gnarled, lichenous trees, which hamper your movement. Within minutes, the Shadakine are upon you. A large Magdi hound breaks through their ranks and leaps towards you before you are able to unleash an attack with your Staff.</p>
- <p>You cannot evade combat with the Magdi and must fight it to the death. Due to the magical powers of their maker, Shasarak, the Magdi have a natural resistance to magic and you must subtract 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Magdi Hound</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect149">If the combat lasts for more than 4 rounds, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.<a id="sect20-1" idref="sect20-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you win the combat in <!--ERRTAG-RE-67004-->4 rounds or less<!--/ERRTAG-RE-67004-->, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Shadakine have seen you and are howling into the attack, as you propel the power of your thought towards the Elemental plane. Which Element do you require to aid you?</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you choose Air, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you choose Fire, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you choose Water, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you choose Earth, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I think we should find out who it is,</quote> you say. <quote>We'll lay a trap.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I am a warrior of the plains,</quote> says Samu. <quote>This is an easy matter.</quote> You make camp and build a huge fire. As soon as you have done this, Samu leaves, telling you not to move from the grove until he returns.</p>
- <p>Dusk gives way to dark, and you and Urik grow more and more apprehensive. Suddenly you hear a strangled cry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage eventually opens on to the Mountains of Morn. It is night and a full moon shines brightly in the sky. Below is the barren expanse of Desolation Valley: a vast wasteland of melted rock and craters. The plain is covered with pot-holes, and, as the wind blows across them, they sigh like a tortured soul moaning at the mountains. <quote>How long has the full moon shone?</quote> you ask Urik.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The barren expanse of Desolation Valley. A vast wasteland of melted rock and craters</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="649"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="649"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>I know not,</quote> he <!--ERRTAG-RE-69071-->says, <quote>but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-69071--> Shadow Gate very near. Down below ground.</quote> Without hesitation, you begin to sprint across the plain and Urik follows. Gone is all your weariness and fatigue now that you are near your goal. The pot-holes lead downwards but there are hundreds of them; which way should you go?</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a gruesome sight slithers from one of these holes. Its long, snaking body is bone white and skeletal; but its pale eyes, without pupils, reveal a deadly malice, a blind evil. It is a Scree Wyrm and it is slithering towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to fight the Scree Wyrm, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Sorcery has no effect on the Deathgaunt. The creature's body is formed in the spirit world and is invulnerable to your attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you follow the winding course of the waterway. Your nerves are racked with tension as you hear the Shadakine beating at the tall marsh grass. The Magdi hounds have been unable to pick up your scent and Urik's animal cunning ensures that you remain hidden from them. The terrain lends itself to easy concealment and soon the frustrated cries of the Shadakine fade into the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu throws the door shut and Hugi, with his vast knowledge of locks, triggers the door lock with one of the many strange tools he carries for that purpose. The passage winds on for many miles and soon you have lost all sense of direction, and can no longer tell whether you are travelling towards the Mountains of Morn or away from them. Finally, the passage ends and a secret hatch opens on to the balcony of an ornate building. The balcony overlooks a vast hall where you witness a strange sight.</p>
- <p>An old man in tattered ermine robes sits upon a broken throne, surrounded by a bizarre gathering of people. Two guards in rusty armour stand either side of him as the ragged assembly of mad courtiers dances a stately pavane without music. Two stairways lead from either side of the balcony into the hail and these are the only exits; it is impossible to walk down these stairs without being seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to walk down the stairs, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you wish to charge through the strange court and try to fight your way out, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are weak with exhaustion, your strength is waning, and you have taken a number of small but painful wounds all over your body. You stumble but Samu bears you up, and you are rushed through the archway and into the passage beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to turn left along the passage, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to turn right, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shrill sound of exotic bird song rouses you from your light, uncomfortable slumber, and the red stain of the morning sun regards you balefully. Your body is a mass of insect bites and you have lost 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the assault of vampiric Blood Nymphs. Urik has also suffered and, for the first time since you have known him, displays an ill-tempered frown.</p>
- <p>You continue your journey and, by late afternoon, you have left the peril of the swamplands behind. You now stand at the northern edge of the Gurlu Marshes. Gleaming in the distance you glimpse the faint outline of the city of Karnali, overlooking the sparkling waters of the Suhni River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sustaining your <!--ERRTAG-RE-73840-->Staff's<!--/ERRTAG-RE-73840--> energy against the Kazim light costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. You must attempt to master the Kazim light through the force of your will to prevent its owner from exerting her will over the Shadakine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, expending a total of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points this turn, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to use 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, expending a total of 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points this turn, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you wish to use 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, expending a total of 5 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points this turn, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run in the opposite direction, following Urik, who takes great care to skirt the edges of the bog that held you so recently. Unaware of the lurking peril, the Shadakine swordsman blunders forward and immediately sinks in the bog. You hear him shouting frantically for help as you press on anxiously.</p>
- <p>Urik leads as you trace the winding course of a shallow waterway that cuts through the tall grass. An unnatural howl sounds from somewhere behind you; it is the chilling call of the Magdi, the monstrous two-headed hounds created by the Wytch-king Shasarak. You keep to the line of the waterway in the hope that it will disguise your scent from the Magdi hunting dogs, and try to put as much distance between them and yourself as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Warward's mind is already weak with fear and it is a simple matter to exert your power over his brain and grip it with a murderous compulsion. Suddenly, the Warward walks towards the Shadakine Wytch, unable to resist the desire to slay that you have placed in his mind.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Warward walks towards the Shadakine Wytch, unable to resist the desire to slay</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Before the Wytch can resist, the Warward strangles her to death. Immediately the light of the Kazim Stone is extinguished and the Shadakine warriors before the fortress falter. With a jubilant cry, the soldiers of the Freedom Guild charge forwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Urik and Samu volunteer to hunt out some wild game in order to collect enough food for the remainder of your journey.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If the number you have picked is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If the number you have picked is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been severely weakened by your combat with the madmen and lack the strength to escape from the throne room as fast as your companions. As you fall behind, the mad courtiers leap upon you. They are vicious and unrelenting in their attack and before Samu can help you, you have been torn to pieces by the howling mob.</p>
- <p>Your life and quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within the vision in your mind, you point towards the Element of Fire and, crackling with energy, it moves forwards. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You open your eyes to see the Shadakine moving into position at the edge of the lake. The Shadakine who leads them is shouting instructions as they load their crossbows and prepare to attack. Unsuspecting, they take aim, failing to notice the smoke that is rising behind them.</p>
- <p>Then before a single bolt has been released, a startled Shadakine breaks cover, leaping to his feet and slapping maniacally at his clothes. Within seconds he is wreathed in flames and the uniforms of his comrades have begun to smoulder. Desperately, one of the Shadakine hurls himself into the <!--ERRTAG-RE-78706-->lake, and immediately the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78706--> Eijalfish speeds towards him. Urik does not wait to see the outcome of this encounter and dives into the waters of the lake, splashing out towards the farther shore. Without hesitation you follow his example, the sound of the screaming Shadakine ringing in your ears.</p>
- <p>You reach dry land and scramble out of the water. A fearful howl crosses the lake and your blood runs cold. Urik cocks his head to one side. <quote>They have fierce Magdi hounds, their hunting dogs,</quote> he says. He points to a shallow waterway that winds its way through the tall grass. <quote>We move now. Keep to water. Hide scent. Come!</quote> You both move off, stepping cautiously along the channel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Whoever is following bears you no malice. You sense that you have encountered this person before but the meeting must have been very brief, since you cannot identify him. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>You stop and make camp in the grove of trees as Urik suggested. Samu volunteers to scout out the area to make sure that you are not attacked in the night and he has been gone only a few minutes when you hear a strangled cry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, the Shadakine fortress erupts into flames, sending Shadakine warriors rushing from their barracks into the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the west passage. It rises steadily and eventually opens into a small cave<!--ERRTAG-AD-93287--> with an opening that overlooks a large gorge<!--/ERRTAG-AD-93287-->. Beneath the light of the full moon you see miles and miles of contorted rock. It looks as if it has been melted in a furnace.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You find the skeletal remains of several bodies but as you lift a skull to examine it, it crumbles to dust in your hand.</p>
- <p>You search the cave and find a Silver Knife. You may keep this Special Item, which can be worn on your belt. (Remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You head back along the passage until you come to the circular cavern once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to take the passage leading east, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to take the passage leading north, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is dark and empty. You can see no other way out of the throne room and turn to leave.</p>
- <p><quote>Wait!</quote> says Hugi, suddenly. <quote>I thought&ellips; yes, I'm sure&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What's up?</quote> asks Urik. <quote>Thief go mad too?</quote></p>
- <p>Hugi traces a line with his finger along a panel in the wall behind the throne. Suddenly, the panel swivels to reveal a passage leading down. <quote>I thought as much,</quote> he grins. <quote>The gap looked too wide; it reminded me of the Great Tomb of Naugorin, far to the east in the Shuri Mountains.</quote></p>
- <p>Before Hugi launches into a long dissertation on his past criminal conquests, you step forward. <quote>Into the passage,</quote> you order and, dutifully, they all file in.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hugi selects a key and opens the door with <!--ERRTAG-RE-82974-->consummate<!--/ERRTAG-RE-82974--> ease. The room is full of shadows but, as your eyes adjust to the light, you see a huddle of people crouched in the corner. They are gnawing on a large bone. They seem frightened by your <!--ERRTAG-RE-83228-->appearance. Suddenly<!--/ERRTAG-RE-83228--> the largest of them stands, screams a frantic cry and runs straight at you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wildman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You seize the chance to slip away and, turning down a side street, you and Urik leave the battle far behind you. However, almost immediately, you are forced to stop. At the end of the street stands a tall, shadowy figure, a huge broadsword in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are taken to a building that might once have been a temple. Here, the ragged crowd throws you into a deep pit. You are now in total darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you wish to make a light from your Staff, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You almost succeed. But, as the Shadakine step back, looking ready to break and run, and Sado's brave army of freedom fighters charge forward, the Shadakine Wytch tightens her grip over the minds of her countrymen and they hold their ground. Shifting emotions of fear, anger and frenzy contort their snarling features. The use of this spell has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As the line of freedom fighters collides with that of the Shadakine warriors you give a smile. The Freedom Guild are superb soldiers, and despite the power of the Shadakine Wytch, the strength of their charge punches a great <!--ERRTAG-RE-85433-->hole in<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85433--> the Shadakine defence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wall of fire glows more brightly, for a moment only, before returning to its normal intensity. The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-91671-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-91671--> has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to fire at the wall of flame with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to walk through the wall of fire, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A crossbow bolt flashes through the air, heading straight for you, but your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> deflects it and you are unharmed.</p>
- <p>The Ooslo bird is flying lower now, as it approaches its nesting place in the Gurlu Swamp. As soon as you are flying low enough to jump to the ground, link tells you to untie the vine that is knotted around you. You do as he asks and you both fall to the ground, tumbling through a swathe of marsh grass, which cushions your landing. Sitting up, link gives the Ooslo bird a comic wave as it continues, unheeding, back to its nest.</p>
- <p><quote>Shadakine near. We go now,</quote> Urik states. Immediately, he breaks into a stumbling trot, following the course of a shallow waterway that cuts through the tall marsh grass. A few minutes later, a chilling howl stops you dead in your tracks: the Shadakine have hunting dogs, the terrible Magdi hounds. As you move away once more, you keep to the waterway in an effort to hide your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect45-1-foot" idref="sect45-1"><p>After taking the Karmo potion and fighting your opponent, halve your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores. It is at your discretion whether you should apply the penalty to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> before or after halving your score. The former option is the most beneficial.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Growing beside a small pool of murky water, you notice the yellow flowers of a Karmo bush. If you possess an empty <!--ERRTAG-RA-87880-->Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RA-87880-->, you may squeeze the clear liquid that is contained within the buds of the flower into the <!--ERRTAG-RA-87880-->Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RA-87880-->. This potion, when taken before combat, will double your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point totals for the duration of the combat. However, the side effects of the Karmo potion can be fatal. After taking the potion you must pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. The number that you pick equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose due to the side effects (0 = zero).<a id="sect45-1" idref="sect45-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the dingy passage as it wends its way through the slate grey rock. Soon, you reach a wider cavern, where the ceiling is much higher. In the faint glow of a swarm of mineflies, you make out a staircase that ascends to the surface. Shafts of moonlight shine down the stairwell, twinkling on the wet stone steps. By the stairs you notice a large sack propped against the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to examine the sack, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to ignore the sack, you can climb the stairs to the surface, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your frustration, the wind begins to blow but gently&emdash;the Elementals have misunderstood your need. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to try again, <link-text>return to 290</link-text> and choose a different Element.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and would prefer to use it, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You totter on unsteady feet. Your struggles have made you feel faint with exhaustion. A strong hand grips your shoulder to steady you. You look up and see Samu, the giant warrior that you freed from the slave train of the Shadakine, outside the walls of Karnali. He has joined the Freedom <!--ERRTAG-RE-90470-->Guild, it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-90470--> seems. <quote>Are you all right?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p>You nod. <quote>I will be.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Then I must away,</quote> says Samu, drawing his massive broadsword and brandishing it in the air. <quote>The Shadakine filth must be purged from the face of the world!</quote> He speaks with a terrible vehemence, as if he would be happy to complete the whole task himself. He then turns and lopes towards the Shadakine with an easy, athletic stride.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133"><link-text>Turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although the Wytch's attention is concentrated elsewhere, your initial assault on her mind proves unsuccessful: the power of the Kazim Stone protects her. Now, completely alerted to the peril that threatens her, she wrenches her attention away from the warriors at the fortress and focuses all her powers, and those of the Kazim Stone, upon you. At once, the morale of the Shadakine warriors sinks and they flee in confusion. With a cheer, the men of the Freedom Guild move forward to storm the <!--ERRTAG-RE-91716-->fortress, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-91716--> you barely notice them, for you are now locked into a duel of wills with the Shadakine Wytch. A crimson haze fills the sky where the forces of the Mind Gem and the Kazim Stone clash.</p>
- <p>The combined <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score of the Wytch and the Stone is 40. Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores and subtract this total from 40.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If your final score is 15 or higher, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If your final score is 14 or lower, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the city far behind, as you and Urik struggle to match the pace of the giant's long stride. You head north for the Belzar River, which traces a westerly course towards the Mountains of Morn and the infamous dead lands. By the time you reach the river, night is upon you and you are nearly asleep on your feet. You tell the giant that you are too exhausted to continue and he stops to allow you to make camp. He has a supply of food which he shares with you before you fall into a deep sleep by the gentle lapping of the waters of the Belzar River.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The following morning, you continue on your journey. The Belzar Hills on the far side of the river seem to frown upon you as you pass and you are troubled by a gnawing doubt. Urik seems to share this doubt and he continually looks over his shoulder with an anxious expression on his face. When you stop at midday to rest, you voice your doubt to your companions.</p>
- <p><quote>There is a simple explanation,</quote> says Samu, confidently. <quote>We are being followed.</quote></p>
- <p>You dart a startled look at Urik. <quote>I think Samu speak truth,</quote> he says.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to lie in wait and ambush whoever is following you, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to press on, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the vision of your mind, you point towards the being that represents the Element of Earth. Slowly, it lumbers forward as if its body is too heavy for the strength of its limbs. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You open your eyes and see that the Shadakine have reached the edge of the lake. The officer in command is shouting orders as the warriors take cover, loading and priming their weapons and preparing to fire. There is no sign of the Earth Elemental and, fearfully, you reflect on the notorious stupidity of Earth Elementals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you decide that the Earth Elemental will fail, and have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to create a <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> about yourself to deflect the arrows of the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If not, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing before a crumbling bridge that crosses the left-hand fork of the Belzar River, you gaze, awestruck, at the desolate city that rests beneath the shadow of the mountains. In your darkest dreams, you have never known a place so eerie and forbidding: the blackened shards of the city walls reach hauntingly into the sky; clumps of black weed grow between pieces of crumbling masonry, and the twisted heights of ancient spires and crippled towers point accusingly at the heavens; an awful gloom hangs in the air and an atmosphere of brooding menace emanates from the heart of the city.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You look at the faces of your brave companions; Urik's wrinkled face, so often creased with laughter, now set in a frown; the hard countenance of brave Samu, the sundered king; and the angular, hawkish features of Hugi, whose eyes gleam greedily. You notice how pale they look, almost sickly, and a vague disquiet stirs in the back of your mind.</p>
- <p>You approach the bridge and Hugi looks at it, his eyes full of doubt. <quote>Is it safe?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>It's stood here for centuries,</quote> Hugi answers.</p>
- <p>The swift-flowing water looks black and uninviting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to cross the bridge, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to swim across the river, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I can guarantee your safety when you leave Karnali if you will agree to aid an attack we have planned against the Shadakine garrison of the city,</quote> offers Sado. <quote>Help us, Grey Star; we need you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to aid Sado in his struggle against the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you decide to refuse, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing in a huge cavern. Eyes gleaming greedily, Hugi shoulders past you and runs headlong down the carved stone steps that lead to the cavern floor. <quote>This must be the place!</quote> he says, excitedly. Immediately, he begins to search the chamber, scrabbling among the rocks and debris and then, with a jubilant cry, he unearths an old and rusty chest. In an instant, he has removed his wallet of thief's tools and, with practised ease, sets about the lock. Swiftly, he masters the challenge, flicking open the lid with a hungry look. His face drops. <quote>Books!</quote> he snarls contemptuously.</p>
- <p>You walk over to his side and peer down at the leather-bound tomes. A closer examination reveals a shocking surprise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on the magical energy of the Astral plane, you hurl your power against the Kazim light that shines above the heads of the advancing Shadakine warriors. At first, you throw 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point against it, but this challenge serves only to attract attention to yourself and the Shadakine Wytch immediately sends the full power of the Kazim Stone against you. The numbing blast that washes through your mind loses you <!--ERRTAG-RE-98843-->8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ><!--/ERRTAG-RE-98843--> <!--ERRTAG-RE-98892-->points, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98892--> because the Wytch has diverted the power of the Kazim Stone away from the <!--ERRTAG-RE-99025-->warriors, the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-99025--> morale of the Shadakine is severely shaken and, with a cheer, the men of the Freedom Guild move forward to storm the fortress.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you have survived the initial blast of the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Earth Elemental does not come in time. A volley of quarrels flies towards you, ripping into your flesh and inflicting terrible wounds.</p>
- <p>Your quest is over. When the Earth Elemental does eventually arrive, he takes you down into the cold dark earth of his home&emdash;your final resting place.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make camp in the small grove of trees. Samu scouts the area to make sure that your pursuer is not lurking nearby. Suddenly, you hear a strangled cry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Several minutes pass. With familiar tardiness, the Earth Elemental obeys your summons and the ground beneath the fortress begins to <!--ERRTAG-RE-100437-->tremble. Great<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100437--> blocks of masonry tumble to the ground, driving the Shadakine from their barracks and out into the street. You have used 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now you must run to keep away from their deadly touch. Fortunately, the Deathgaunts are unable to move quickly and you are able to create some distance between them and yourselves, but you are weary from past assaults, and soon find yourself stumbling and staggering through the grey dust of the dead plain. You trip and fall, exhausted, but Samu sweeps you up in his strong arms.</p>
- <p>For a full day, Samu carries you but, despite his enormous strength, eventually he, too, becomes too tired to continue. Panting for breath, he sets you down before collapsing to the ground. Hugi estimates that you are now only a day away from the Forbidden City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to go without sleep and continue travelling through the night, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you have the Magical Power of Evocation and wish to use it to protect yourself while you sleep, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy and a remaining Azawood leaf<!--ERRTAG-AD-101960--> and wish to use it<!--/ERRTAG-AD-101960-->, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu enters the grove of trees. Held in a headlock, and gurgling pleas for release, is a scrawny-looking man, dressed in a leather jerkin and bright scarlet breeches immediately you recognize him as the thief who tried to steal your money in the cavern of the Freedom Guild. <quote>What are you doing here? State your <!--ERRTAG-RE-102536-->purpose!<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102536--></quote> you say, leaping to your feet. The thief lets out a long gurgle by way of reply.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Held in a headlock is a scrawny man, the thief from the cavern of the Freedom Guild</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>What are you doing here?</quote> you repeat, angrily. Samu tightens his grip on the thief's neck.</p>
- <p><quote>Being&ellips; strangled!</quote> he squawks, clawing desperately at the thick arm around his neck.</p>
- <p>You give Samu a nod and the brawny giant releases his grip. The thief collapses to the floor in an untidy heap, choking for breath and rubbing his bruised throat. Urik chortles with laughter. <quote>Get up!</quote> you command.</p>
- <p>The thief staggers to his feet, an indignant expression on his face as he brushes the dust from his clothes. <quote>What have you got to say for yourself, thief?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>I am Hugi of Suhn,</quote> he says, haughtily.</p>
- <p><quote>Was it you who tried to rob me in Karnali?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>For that oversight I apologize, Master Wizard,</quote> he says, barely disguising the smirk on his hawkish face. <quote>If I had known that you were bound for the Forbidden City, I would have offered my services at once.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How came you by that information?</quote> you snap angrily.</p>
- <p><quote>I&ellips; er&ellips; listened at the door after Sado sent me out,</quote> he replies innocently.</p>
- <p><quote>Shall I kill the spy now?</quote> asks Samu, menacingly.</p>
- <p><quote>Spy?&emdash;Spy?</quote> Hugi chokes. <quote>I am no spy. I am the greatest thief in all Karnali! What need have I for spying?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You not very good at picking Grey Star's pocket,</quote> Urik points out.</p>
- <p><quote>Nevertheless,</quote> says Hugi, testily. <quote>Thief I am. Spy I am not.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>That still does not explain why you are following us. Why should the Forbidden City interest you?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Ahhh!</quote> sighs Hugi, <quote>the Forbidden City! Legends speak of priceless statutes&emdash;remnants of the ancient people who Once lived there. But I have found none who dared go there. When I heard that you were bound for the City of the Dead, I chose to follow. Then, this great brute stepped out of nowhere and tried to strangle me to death.</quote></p>
- <p>Samu glares at Hugi. <quote>Shah I kill him now?</quote> bellows the giant, eagerly. Hugi steps back in alarm.</p>
- <p><quote>No, wait. Hugi, what do you know of our quest&emdash;whom do you serve?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>I know nothing of any quest and I serve no man but myself. All I ask is that you allow me to accompany you to the Forbidden City. I am not unskilled in my own small way,</quote> he sniffs, immodestly.</p>
- <p><quote>If he is half as good as he thinks, he could be useful,</quote> comments Urik.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, and if he is a spy, we daren't let him go, though I'll not kill a man for the sake of a suspicion. You're coming with us, Hugi.</quote> Broadly, the thief begins to smile. <quote>And Samu, if he tries to escape&ellips; break one of his legs.</quote> Samu grins ferociously as Hugi's face drops.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214"><link-text>Turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can fire your Staff again, the Magdi lunges at you. You attempt to parry the beast's charge with your Staff but its weight and the momentum of its attack hurl you to the ground. You thank the gods that there is only one of them to contend with as you grapple with the enraged animal. The Magdi's jaws snap dangerously close to your throat but you twist your body away and leap to your feet.</p>
- <p>You cannot evade combat, and must fight the creature to the death. Due to the Magdi's resistance to magic, you must subtract 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Magdi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect149">If the combat lasts for more than 5 rounds, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you win the combat in 5 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is poisonous and, as it affects your body, you panic and begin to sink. Hugi and Urik have already reached the other side but, as soon as Samu sees you struggling, he strikes out towards you. With strong hands he grabs your robe and pulls you to the surface. Panting and gasping for breath, he hurls you to the safety of the river bank and slowly you crawl up the bank. The water you have swallowed has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Suddenly, Urik gives a <!--ERRTAG-RE-107695-->cry: <quote>Samu!</quote><!--/ERRTAG-RE-107695--></p>
- <p>You turn in time to see Samu's flailing arms disappear beneath the surface of the water. You are stunned and dismayed. He disappears completely from sight, swept away by the waters of the poisonous Belzar River.</p>
- <p>With tears in your eyes, you walk in silence towards the walls of the Forbidden City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points into the Red Jewel in an effort to control the Deathgaunt. But the Deathgaunt's mind is not its own; it is being commanded from a point outside this world and the sinister spectre advances.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, your Magical Power of Prophecy tells you that the north passage leads out of the tunnel complex and on to the plain of Desolation Valley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to take the passage leading north, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to take the passage leading east, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the creature dies, its body melts away, leaving only a pile of mud and filth that once gave it form. Urik gives a shout of congratulation and you nod in acknowledgement; you are too tired to talk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to continue with your previous use of the Power of Prophecy, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within the darkness of a dream, you hear a voice whispering; it is calling your name, over and over again. Glowing with a sickly light, the figure of a man stands like a sinister vision. His face obscured by shadow. His grey robe is tattered and torn; his long bony claw-like fingers are covered by charred, black flesh. He points a crooked finger at you. <quote>You will fail. Your power does not suffice. This fool's errand is to no end.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>NO!</quote> you shout into the emptiness.</p>
- <p><quote>Turn aside, Grey Star. Turn aside. You dare not stand against me.</quote> The grim figure casts aside his hood and the shadow passes to a blood-red light, revealing a hideous face. Half of the face is missing and, in its place, a metal plate gives shape to the ruined visage of wasted flesh and scarred tissue. One eye is shrunken and sightless, while the other burns with the intensity of the sun. A gaze of unbearable malice focuses on your heart. <quote>Desist, Wizard&emdash;or I will rend the very soul from your body.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I will not!</quote> you scream into the darkness. A look of rage contorts his twisted features and the single eye burns into you. You are looking upon the face of Shasarak, Wytch-king of Shadaki, who has come to taunt and torment you as you sleep.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>A gaze of unbreakable malice focuses on your heart: you look upon Shasarak, Wytch-king of Shadaki</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You fear me now, foolish child, and you think that you have mastered fear. I will teach you the true meaning of terror. I will make you yearn for death as if it were your true love!</quote> Shasarak raises his clawed, decaying hand and clutches his fingers in the air: 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point is drawn effortlessly from your body.</p>
- <p>You wake up screaming.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By sustaining a trance, you will be able to predict the location of the bogs and quicksand before you come across them. A prolonged trance will cost you 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If, for some reason, you have to break your trance before you have crossed the swamps, and you wish to use the spell again in order to <!--ERRTAG-RE-112234-->continue, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-112234--> will need to use a further 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to use the Power of Prophecy, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw more energy into the Shield, restoring it to is former strength at a cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, but there is no third volley, only an unnerving silence. The Eijalfish is joined by another, and together they begin to circle the islet.</p>
- <p>You are trapped without food or supplies and the Shadakine seem content to wait it out. As the sun begins to set, you hear the sound of movement from the direction of the Shadakine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to fire in the direction of the movement, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you would prefer to attack the Eijalfish, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you would prefer to wait for nightfall, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Uselessly, it begins to rain. The use of the Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to try again, <link-text>return to 290</link-text> and choose a different Element.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Power of Enchantment and would prefer to use it, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is poisonous and the shock, as the poison runs swiftly through your system, throws you into confusion. You are already weak from your exertions and unable to resist the strong current. Before Samu is able to swim back and attempt to rescue you, you have sunk to the bottom of the river.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The atmosphere is heavy and humid, and it is hard to breathe. The effort of walking causes you to lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point as your lungs labour against the damp, cloying air. The sun begins to set and the exhausted state of your body requires that you stop to rest for the night even though you are still within the confines of the swamp. Urik locates a bare, dry hillock and you stop there for the night. The air is alive with nocturnal insects and among them, to your dismay, you notice the distinct vermilion bodies of winged Blood Nymphs.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Deathgaunt looks on as you usher your three companions within the protection of the pentacle. You possess no Magical Power capable of damaging this creature, for its body is not of the real world; your <!--ERRTAG-RE-115985-->Wizard's Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115985--> cannot help you here. You remain within the pentacle and continue to chant the warding words of Evocation. Eventually, with a whispered cry of frustration, the Deathgaunt dematerializes.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You press on through the barren wilderness, more anxious than ever to reach your goal. The Deathgaunt has given up its attack for now but it is not destroyed and could return at any time. That night, with the black Mountains of Morn looming above you, you stop to make camp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you possess the Magical Power of Alchemy and have some Azawood leaves in your Herb Pouch, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If not, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Walking along the dusty street, a sudden prickling sensation at the back of your neck warns you that danger lurks nearby. You feel as if a hundred pairs of eyes are watching your every move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you possess the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you do not possess this Power or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give Urik a nod and then dive into the water, swimming with all your might away from the Shadakine. A flurry of quarrels slices the water around you. Unharmed, you splash to the water's edge, grateful to be moving into the cover of the tall reeds that line the bank.</p>
- <p>Panting for breath, both you and Urik run, half-crouched, through the undergrowth. A desperate chase begins as the Shadakine leave their hiding places and start to run after you. Urik leads the way, running along a shallow waterway that cuts through the tall marsh grass like a path. From behind, the chilling howl of hounds reaches your ears. Urik stops briefly and turns to you. <quote>They have hunting dogs, terrible Magdi Hounds. We move slow and quiet now&emdash;keep to water&emdash;hide scent. I am old Kundi&emdash;cannot run,</quote> he wheezes, the hint of an apology in his voice.</p>
- <p>Stealthily, you both creep away with all the speed you can muster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the city by the north gate. Here the Suhni River and the Belzar River meet. By following the Belzar River west, you will come directly to the Mountains of Morn and the Forbidden City of Gyanima. You set off.</p>
- <p>You have travelled only a short way when you see a tall figure running towards you at great speed. It is Samu and you stop to wait for him.</p>
- <p><quote>You go to the Mountains?</quote> he asks, pointing to the west. You tell him that this is so. <quote>Once, I was king of a great tribe&emdash;the Masbaté nomads of the Great Lissan Plain. Now, I am the only survivor. The Wytch-king saw the end of my people. The Shadakine fought and hounded us across the plains in their great chariots, led by the evil Wytch-king. Long we resisted him, but what use are swords and spears and brave warriors against the black arts? A great plague of demons sealed our doom. Shasarak has deprived me of my family and my people.</quote></p>
- <p>He looks at you with smouldering eyes. <quote>I will come with you. You will have need of strength as well as bravery. You have mine.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Urik gives you a look of bewilderment. You nod confidently, as if you know exactly what you are doing. The bizarre procession of madmen and mad women moves at a stately pace through the wide archway that leads from the throne room. Samu looks as solemn as ever but Hugi's face wears an expression of astonishment. You enter a dim, candlelit hall dominated by a long table. Rats scuttle across the table, running for their bolt holes as the assemblage enters the room. You sit down and wait to see what happens next. <quote>Dinner is served,</quote> announces a gaunt, grey-faced servant. A limping, squeaking, three-wheeled trolley is pushed into the room. At the far end <!--ERRTAG-RE-120711-->of the table<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120711-->, the deranged king moistens his lips with his coated tongue and tucks the table cloth into the top of his torn silk shirt. The tarnished silver dish is uncovered and a wave of revulsion churns your stomach: on the silver platter is a hideous array of human limbs.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The deranged king prepares to dine</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="631"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="631"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The king stands up, brandishing a rusty carving knife. <quote>Would you like an arm or a leg?</quote> he enquires innocently.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to accept, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you wish to refuse, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it to help you make your choice, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wretches fight with each other in a contest to be the first to leave. Once they have slain one of their kind they rush through the door. Outside, the street is now full of wretches and you scour the room to try to find another exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly, you unfasten the knotted vine. Urik let out a yell as you both plummet towards the ground at frightening speed. Your fall is broken by the sucking ooze of the marshy ground <!--ERRTAG-RE-122318-->below, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-122318--> you are still bruised and must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Nearby, you can hear the shouts of the Shadakine Warriors as they search for you. You are surrounded by tall reeds and rushes and, for the moment, you are out of sight. You keep very still. The Shadakine are beating at the marsh reeds with large sticks, trying to flush you out. Just as a booted foot passes inches from your face, you suddenly realize that you are sinking.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You hide in the tall reeds as the Shadakine seek you out</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="624"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="624"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to struggle out of the quicksand into which you are being drawn, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you would prefer to keep still, at least until the Shadakine have passed, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, Urik leads you along while you sustain a trance state. Your mind is full of a thousand images of future events and you are able to discern which is solid land and which is not until suddenly, a disturbing vision forms in your mind. You see yourself in combat with a terrible monster that has risen from a dark pit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to break your trance, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to continue as you are, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You begin to chant, scratching the shape of the pentacle into the ground. The Deathgaunt gives a cry of frustration and surges towards you. You feel its frozen touch before the pentacle is fully formed and you lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The deadly chill fever drags you into unconsciousness as the Deathgaunt's spell takes effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu sets the pace, reaching forward with great strides to lead you across the gently undulating plain that lies between Karnali and the mountains of the west. The Belzar Hills on the far side of the river cast a shadow across the waters, as though disapproving of your choice of destination.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As the miles slip by, a growing feeling of uneasiness nags at your mind. You notice that Urik is constantly looking over his shoulder, his face clouded with uncertainty. In the afternoon, you stop to rest and you voice your doubts to Samu and Urik. <quote>Ah! So you, too, have noticed!</quote> says Samu. <quote>I felt this just after we set out. I fear we are being followed.</quote> Startled, you flash a look at Urik.</p>
- <p><quote>Me think it true,</quote> he says.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to lie in wait, to ambush whoever is following you, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to continue, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you have defeated the Shadakine warriors, the clearing is now full of raging soldiers. Wary of the power of your Staff they avoid further risk to themselves and send in a Magdi. The beast lunges at you, its claws and fangs thirsting for your blood.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Magdi Hound</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stunned by the swiftness of your evasion, the wretch stands back, <!--ERRTAG-RE-126444-->immobile, as<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126444--> you charge into the attack. Add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat, due to the speed of your manoeuvre.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dead City Wretch</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon, you are lost in a maze of alleys and side streets, all lined with small buildings. Above are a confusion of criss-crossing walkways.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you wish to climb a wooden stair that leads up to one of the walkways, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to enter one of the small dwellings, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Urik points to a place directly below him. <quote>Here,</quote> he says. <quote>It is here!</quote> There is no way down, other than via the pot-holes. Another Scree Wyrm slithers out of one of the holes and crawls towards you from out of its shadowy lair.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you do not have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You point towards the Water Elemental and it rolls forward, cascading towards the Earth. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You open your eyes to see that the water of the lake is starting to boil with activity. The Eijalfish begins to circle in confusion, distressed at the buffeting it is receiving. Urik regards the bubbling water with interest. <quote>You want to swim?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell your companions of your intention and, at your word, and praying that your bravado will discourage attack, all four of you run down the stairs, yelling and shouting. It is an ill-founded hope. The dancers stop and stare at you with crazed expressions.</p>
- <p>The mad guards of the insane king are the first to <!--ERRTAG-RE-129225-->countercharge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-129225-->, with the raving courtiers at their back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Shadakine falls, his body a smouldering ruin and, under the command of their tall, ferocious-looking leader, the Shadakine warriors fall back into the cover of the tall grass. A fearsome howl alerts you to a further danger. Two large hounds, each with two monstrous horned heads, come bounding out of the grass towards you. They are Magdi, hideous creations of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.</p>
- <p>Your nerve almost fails you at the sight of these terrifying beasts and you stand transfixed. Then, you hear Urik shout at you: <quote>We must flee.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to stay and fight the Magdi, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you would prefer to run, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You labour through the mud and slime, gingerly probing ahead with your Staff as you pass among the rancid pools and dark, sluggish streams.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magic Talisman of the Shianti, add 2 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If your total is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If your total is 5&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Air!</quote> you shout in the sibilant tongue of the Elementals. At once, a host of Gale Wraiths sweeps across the lake, fanning the flames to white-hot. Eventually they blow out the <!--ERRTAG-RE-131291-->fire, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131291--> the massive rise in temperature has burnt both you and Urik to <!--ERRTAG-RE-131411-->cinders<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131411-->.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect91-1-foot" idref="sect91-1"><p>You are forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I have great need for haste, Sado,</quote> you say, <quote>but I will help you this night. What must I do?</quote></p>
- <p>A fire lights in Sado's eyes. <quote>I thank you, Grey Star, in the name of the people of Karnali.</quote></p>
- <p>He tells you of his need for a diversion that will lure the bulk of the Shadakine force outside their walled <!--ERRTAG-RE-132032-->city-fortress<!--/ERRTAG-RE-132032-->. You consider your Magical Powers, trying to decide which would best accomplish this.<a id="sect91-1" idref="sect91-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run forward along the main street as fast as your legs will carry you. The deserted street is full of old buildings, many of which are still intact. Their strange designs prevent you from guessing their original purpose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to enter one of these buildings, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to leave the main street in case the summons of the Gatekeeper is answered, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake to the sound of exotic bird song. You resume your journey and, by late afternoon, have left the peril of the swamplands far behind. When you reach the northern edges of the Gurlu Marshes, you see, gleaming in the distance, the city of Karnali and the bright waters of the Suhni River.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All you find in the banqueting room is a pile of human bones and some rats that are gnawing on them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to look for Hugi in the throne room, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to leave the palace without Hugi, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All is silent once more. A third volley of bolts does not appear. Fortunately, the Shadakine are unaware that their attacks are weakening your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> and have decided that further assaults are useless.</p>
- <p>An hour passes. Then, from out of the reeds, a large barrel arcs through the air, a dark liquid spurting from holes drilled into the sides. It splashes into the lake. <quote>What are they up to?</quote> you murmur.</p>
- <p><quote>Who can say?</quote> replies Urik. <quote>Shadakine have much cunning.</quote> More barrels are thrown into the lake. Gradually, the thick liquid they contain forms a film on the water, reflecting the light of the setting sun, and soon the entire lake is polluted by the black liquid.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a lighted torch sails through the air <!--ERRTAG-RE-135188-->and, as<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135188--> it hits the water, ignites the oily surface, transforming the lake into a raging inferno. You are surrounded by flames and soon your clothes begin to smoulder; you wince as the intense heat sears your flesh. Urik fixes you with a panicked stare, primeval fear of fire twisting his features.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to attempt to swim <!--ERRTAG-RE-135747-->underwater<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135747-->, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you remove the Black Rod from the pocket of your <!--ERRTAG-RE-136036-->robe, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136036--> feel the latent energy that it contains. This was Shasarak's master key, an instrument of his power when Taklakot was his domain. Your skill enables you to detect that it will open the door.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Magdi falls to the ground dead, you turn and race through the thickening trees with Urik labouring above you, clinging to the branch of a tall tree. He offers you his hand and hauls you up on to the branch. Silently you hide in the tree and watch as the Shadakine dash past. When they are out of sight, Urik gives you a wink and you drop to the ground and head back the way you came. When you return to the clearing there is no sign of the Chaksu.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Grimly, you ignore the searing pain in your shoulder and clamber to your feet. Immediately, you are spotted by the Shadakine and a hail of quarrels flies towards you. You slump unconscious to the ground, your heart punctured by one of the many bolts penetrating your body.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior is amazed when an old beggar carrying a stick comes charging to attack him. He pays you scant regard until your Staff springs into life, shattering the illusion that deceived him. Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in the first round of combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warrior:</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ground ahead, which looks so solid, gives way as you prod it with your Staff. Instinctively you take a step backwards. Ripples cross the surface of the quagmire and it starts to bubble furiously. Suddenly, a huge greenish mass of slime and mud, bedecked with trailing creepers and dead vegetation, rises up out of the pit. You have disturbed a Swamp Giant and now you must fight it!</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By using the summons of the Chaksu Pipes, you could seek the aid of the mighty Chaksu in fighting the Shadakine. An attack from the swamp would also serve to divert attention away from any action within the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you wish to aid Sado and the Freedom Guild in this way, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If not, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-139751-->Sadly, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-139751--> do not live long enough to see the sun set. The source of the movement amongst the Shadakine is a warrior who is creeping into position behind you. As you stare intently ahead, a crossbow bolt thuds into your back, throwing you forwards into the murky green water.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cover of the tome is emblazoned with a Shianti rune. A deep dread stirs in your heart as you slowly translate the meaning of the symbol&emdash;Shasarak. This symbol can mean but one thing: your mortal enemy, Shasarak the Wytch-king, is a Shianti Master! If you decide to keep the book, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item. At the bottom of the chest you notice a slender Black Rod, with the rune of Shasarak upon its silver tip. If you wish to keep this Black Rod, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item (which you carry in a pocket of your robe).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Meanwhile, Hugi has busied himself with his search for gold. <quote>No gold&ellips; nothing,</quote> he blubbers.</p>
- <p><quote>Come now, we have no time for this, Hugi. Is there another way out of here?</quote></p>
- <p>Disgruntled by the lack of treasure, Hugi ambles to the far side of the cavern and points to an outcrop of rough-hewn granite. <quote>Here is a door,</quote> he says, <quote>but it is magic-locked. A problem for you to solve, eh Wizard?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you possess the Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you have the Power of Sorcery and possess 3 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to use on the door, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242"><!--ERRTAG-AD-156493-->If you possess insufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to use any of these powers, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-156493--></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the archway and into the city. <quote>Gatekeeper, would you mind holding my horse for me?</quote> asks Hugi, holding out the reins of an imaginary horse. The Gatekeeper accepts the non-existent reins and leads the imaginary horse away. Hugi shrugs. <quote>Sorry, I couldn't resist it,</quote> he says with a smirk.</p>
- <p>You walk along the deserted street, past old buildings, many of which are still intact, although, due to the strangeness of their designs, it is impossible to guess their original purpose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to explore one of these buildings, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to continue along the main street, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Magdi leap into action as the quailing slave unchains them. You unleash a mighty blast from your Staff at one of the hounds, knocking the Magdi off its feet but, to your dismay, despite the intensity of your attack the Magdi clambers snarling to its feet, shaking both heads, as if dazed. The attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The Magdi have a high resistance to magic.</p>
- <p>Meanwhile, the other Magdi continues towards you at an alarming speed, its great drooling jaws thirsting for your flesh. The hound is almost upon you and its muscles coil, ready to leap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to stand and fight the Magdi, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you prefer to evade the attack, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu and Urik do not return until nightfall. You cook the fresh meat they have caught over the fire and, when their catch is shared equally among the party, you find you have enough food for four Meals.</p>
- <p>The following morning you enter the region called the dead lands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> forms around you but its power cannot resist the translucent creature that advances towards you, for it is a Deathgaunt, a creature from the spirit world, raised by the Wytch-king to assail you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a weak smile, you thank the <!--ERRTAG-RE-144870-->king. <quote>Either<!--/ERRTAG-RE-144870-->,</quote> you say with a gulp of dismay. As the nightmare banquet continues, you and your companions watch with mounting horror as the court feasts on human flesh.</p>
- <p><quote>We have to get out of here,</quote> whispers Hugi, his face tinged with green.</p>
- <p>Having dined to satiety, the king rises. <quote>And now, dear guests and friends of Gyanima,</quote> he nods in your direction, <quote>I must retire to my chamber. A good morrow to you all.</quote> The king departs. Soon, the courtiers leave and you make your way from the banquet hall. Now you are alone, you decide to try to find a way out of the palace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to return to the throne room, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you wish to enter a passage to your left, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to enter a passage to your right, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wall of fire six feet high springs up in front of you; forcing the Shadakine charge to halt abruptly. You beat a hasty retreat while the civilian mob and the Shadakine stare at each other in stunned silence, separated by a widening sheet of flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9"><link-text>Turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ground certainly felt solid enough when you probed ahead with your Staff but with your next step you are sucked down with great force. You disappear below the surface so quickly that Urik is unable to help you.</p>
- <p>Your life is over and your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The land beyond the Mountains of Morn, the region that is called Desolation Valley, was once the heart of a great kingdom, a nation called Taklakot. One day, a mighty wizard came amongst them, and he bore a great gift, so they thought. It was a magical stone which harnessed the fire of the sun. The people of Taklakot grew in knowledge but it was a power gained without wisdom and a great calamity befell them. Somehow, the fire of the Sun stone was released and in a single day an entire race was wiped from the face of the Earth. The barren land you see around you is the result of that fateful day; its curse still lingers.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But what of the Forbidden City? Why does it still stand?</quote> asks Samu.</p>
- <p><quote>The mountains that surround the valley held the blast. The Forbidden City, or Gyanima as it was called, stands beyond those mountains. It was built to guard the pass through the mountains and is the only remnant of a dead civilization.</quote> A greedy light gleams in Hugi's eyes. <quote>The value of its treasures is immeasurable,</quote> he breathes.</p>
- <p>Your Shianti training and lifestyle have taught you to place no value on material wealth and you soon lose interest in Hugi's tales of hidden gold. Once more, you ponder the incredible bleakness of the place. You gaze across the Belzar River, and to the hills beyond, and an involuntary shiver runs down your spine. Drifting down from the hills, you see an eerie, chilling sight. A ghostly, pallid form floats across the river, its hands outstretched towards you; it whispers with a voice like grating stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to fire a bolt of magical energy from your Staff at the ghostly form, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to wait for it to come closer, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you have the Magical Power of Evocation and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect112-1-foot" idref="sect112-1"><p>Remember to deduct the total from your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score before turning.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kazim light begins to falter. The Shadakine Wytch is weakening. Sustaining the challenge against the Kazim light costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="sect112-1" idref="sect112-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to maintain the same level of attack, expending 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point altogether this round, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to increase your attack by 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, giving a total of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points expended this round, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to increase your attack by 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, giving a total of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points expended this round, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kleasá does not advance, it is reluctant to leave the defence of the Shadow Gate. Tanith looks out to you with hope in her eyes. You lift your Wizard's Staff and aim it at the demon shadow, which radiates a strange black light.</p>
- <p>Tanith's expression changes to one of horror. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> you hear her cry, her voice muffled by the proximity of the other world. <quote>Stay your hand!</quote> The wild fire of your Staff tears towards the Kleasá and, as the bolt of energy hits the creature, it is Tanith who recoils in pain. Somehow, the Kleasá is making Tanith the victim of its pain. The Kleasá emits a chilling laugh full of scorn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122"><!--ERRTAG-RE-151394-->If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and with to use it to attack the Kleasá<!--/ERRTAG-RE-151394-->, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and possess the Mind Gem,<!--ERRTAG-AD-151599--> and wish to use them both against the Kleasá,<!--/ERRTAG-AD-151599--> <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229"><!--ERRTAG-RE-166812-->If you wish to use the Black Rod of Shasarak<!--/ERRTAG-RE-166812-->, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall to the ground, unconscious. Your efforts have tested your body to the limit and you have lost a further 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to mental and physical exhaustion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your struggling only causes you to sink deeper into the mire. Urik reaches out with his long tail and loops it around your Wizard's Staff. He pulls hard as you cling to the Staff with both hands. <quote>No struggle,</quote> Urik whispers. <quote>Relax and quicksand let you free. If you resist, quicksand drag you harder.</quote> You do as he says and, immediately, you stop sinking. Within minutes, Urik is able to grab your hand, and soon you are free.</p>
- <p>Before you can thank Urik, you hear a loud cry. <quote>There they are!</quote> A crossbow bolt whistles past your face&emdash;you have been seen by the Shadakine huntsmen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to turn to face your enemy, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you would rather evade them, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a wild, dirt-encrusted man, clothed in tatters of dusty rags, jumps on you from the roof of a small building to your left, sending you sprawling to the floor in a cloud of black dust. With an animal howl, he attempts to tear out your throat with his bare teeth.</p>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of the wretch's attack, subtract 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dead City Wretch</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win the <!--ERRTAG-RE-154138-->combat, <link-text>turn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-154138--> to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to fight fire with fire and hurl a bolt of flaming energy at the wall of fire. Your attack is ineffective: the wall of flame neither flickers nor wavers. You have expended 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your attack. (Remember to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hidden in the tall marsh reeds, a Shadakine takes careful aim and fires a crossbow bolt at you. The Ooslo screeches with pain as the bolt penetrate its body. It is a deadly wound and you fall like a stone, hurtling towards a shallow lake that is dotted with small sand banks. You pray that the water is deep enough to contain your fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you concentrate on the future. You perceive that there are four humans in the building and that one of them is ready to pounce. If you wish to enter this building, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight that is sure to follow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish the enter the building, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to continue down the main street, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Old Kundi have idea,</quote> says Urik, suddenly. He produces a small hollow sphere of metal, which is attached to a short metal chain. <quote>Give me Azawood leaf!</quote> he demands. He places the Azawood leaf inside the hollow sphere and asks you to light it with your Staff. As the smoke of the slow-burning leaf begins to drift up from holes in the sphere, he whirls the ball above his head. You see his plan, recalling that, with a similar device, the Kundi men saved you from certain death when the Cave Mantiz attacked you in the cloud forest of the Azanam.</p>
- <p>Urik steps outside the circle of protection and begins to advance on the Deathgaunts. Immediately, they step back in fear of the cloud of smoke that Urik is carrying towards them. As they retreat, Urik breaks into a shambling run and plunges into their midst. With a fearful moan, the Deathgaunts fade and Urik shouts in triumph.</p>
- <p>You have used 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points through the use of Evocation, and one Azawood leaf. Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before sleeping, you hunt out a Yabari bush. When pounded into an ointment and smeared into the skin, its roots are a potent protection against insect bites. Eventually, despite the <!--ERRTAG-RE-157695-->half-light<!--/ERRTAG-RE-157695--> of the gloaming, you find a Yabari and set about making the ointment. When you have finished, you take the ointment back to Urik and you both cover yourselves thoroughly before settling down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kleasá remains within the Shadow Gate, for its purpose is to guard it. Tanith gazes out at you with a tormented expression on her face. Using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you throw the Power of your Sorcery at the shadow creature. Tanith staggers with a mute cry. <quote>No, Grey Star!</quote> she screams. <quote>The Kleasá is using me as a shield.</quote> The Kleasá laughs maliciously.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you have the Mind Gem and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229"><!--ERRTAG-RE-174101-->If you wish to use the Black Rod of Shasarak<!--/ERRTAG-RE-174101-->, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Magdi leap at you, their fangs and claws seeking your vulnerable throat. You cannot evade combat and must fight the Magdi as one enemy. Due to the magical skills of their maker, Shasarak, the Magdi have a strong resistance to magic. You must therefore subtract 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Magdi Hounds</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to the remains of an elaborate archway carved into the city wall. The gate collapsed long ago and the street beyond is bleak and deserted. You take a deep breath and start <!--ERRTAG-RE-159939-->forward. You<!--/ERRTAG-RE-159939--> have taken one step when a voice cries out: <quote>Who goes there?</quote></p>
- <p>The head and shoulders of a bony old man pop through a window high above the shattered gate. He regards you suspiciously with wild, bloodshot eyes. His filthy, matted hair hangs down over his shoulders and he waves a broken, rusty sword. <quote>Speak now!</quote> he continues. <quote>I can't open the gate until you tell me.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>A bony man regards you with wild eyes</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="645"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="645"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Puzzled, you look at the archway and then up at the grime-encrusted man. You can see no gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to humour the Gatekeeper, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to ignore the ravings of the old man, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Water explodes around you as you hit the lake. You career downwards, water swirling and bubbling all about you, until you hit the bottom. Fortunately, the water has slowed your descent and you survive the fall without injury.</p>
- <p>Although encumbered by your Backpack and Staff, you manage to kick out strongly towards the surface, your lungs bursting for air. Emerging into the air, gasping for breath and choking, you look around for some sign of Urik. Moments later, he breaks through the surface of the water, grinning fiercely. <quote>Greetings, Wizard,</quote> he says, spitting water and coughing, <quote>you are well?</quote> You give a curt nod before splashing towards a sandy islet.</p>
- <p>The islet is located near the centre of the lake. Dense clumps of reeds surround its dull, green waters and beyond them, you can hear the shouts of the Shadakine as they seek you out. <quote>We must hide&emdash;get away from here. We're too exposed,</quote> you say urgently to Urik, making to step into the water. You feel Urik's restraining hand on your shoulder.</p>
- <p><quote>Wait!</quote> he says, pointing ahead. You follow the direction of his arm. A host of multi-coloured birds has taken off in alarm from the surface of the lake. The blur of colour draws your eye to something immediately below them that is moving straight towards you.</p>
- <p>Two pale eyes on slender stalks protrude above the water, cold and emotionless, their irises no more than red slashes. <quote>Eijalfish,</quote> says <!--ERRTAG-RE-162466-->Urik. <quote>Very<!--/ERRTAG-RE-162466--> big. Very poisonous. Very dangerous! And now, Shadakine come&ellips; is not good.</quote> Sure enough, you hear the sound of the Shadakine hunting party, beating at the dense foliage as they draw closer. In a few minutes, they are sure to discover you, stranded here in the middle of the lake.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Two pale eyes protrude above the water, cold and emotionless</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to create a magical shield capable of deflecting missiles, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to attack the Eijalfish with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is still dark when you are woken by Urik the following morning. <quote>Come, Wizard&emdash;no time for sleep now, time for haste.</quote> Still groggy with sleep, you rise, take up your Backpack and Staff and make ready to leave.</p>
- <p><quote>What about food?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Food?</quote> Urik sniffs, derisively. <quote>Food grows on the land&ellips; water falls from sky&ellips; down from mountain river&ellips; only foolish man wish to carry the earth and the sky upon his back in little bag. Come now.</quote></p>
- <p>Urik disappears through the door of your room and you have no choice but to follow. You follow Urik in the half light as he clambers along the wooden walkways of the Kundi colony. The air is warm and damp with dew and the clouds hang low above the trees of the Azanam. Already, Urik has nearly disappeared from sight in the thick mist and you struggle to match his pace as he steps nimbly from one platform to another. Soon the Kundi village is far behind and you are travelling along the thick branches of the giant Azawood trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-171243-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-171243-->, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes more than a day to find your way out of the palace and even longer to escape the Forbidden City. The slow and laborious climb into the Mountains of Morn takes a further three days and on the eve of the third day, you look up with a sinking heart to see the shining face of a full moon. The Shadow Gate appears somewhere in the desolate valley below. When the moon eventually passes to its next phase; you are still searching for a way down from the mountains. The sickness that afflicts the dead lands and the Mountains of Morn eventually takes its toll and one by one you and your companions die in the desolate wilderness.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It does not require a prophet to predict the outcome of your situation. As you attempt to gaze into the future, twenty trained soldiers aim their crossbows at you. You tumble to the ground, a mass of bolts buried in your chest, and pass swiftly from this world.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steeling yourself for the long march through the night, you strike out and pray that the Deathgaunts do not appear. You are already tired, and the chill fever that the Deathgaunts have inflicted on you is wearing down your resistance.</p>
- <p>Stumbling with fatigue through the inky black night, you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points through lack of <!--ERRTAG-RE-166547-->sleep, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-166547--> your heart lifts when, with the coming of dawn, you see the shattered outline of a city couched in the hills at the foot of the mountains at the point where the Belzar River forks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52"><link-text>Turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run down a long road that runs parallel to the city wall, the mob still at your back. You are forced to an abrupt halt by the sight of another pack of madmen heading straight towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you wish to climb a flight of stairs that leads to a wooden walkway above your head, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you decide to enter one of the small houses that face the city wall, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the jewel and stare at it intently. The giant continues to look confused.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-174497-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-174497-->, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the might of your Wizard's Staff and its flame shoots towards the spectre on the water. To your surprise, <!--ERRTAG-RE-168225-->however, it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168225--> passes straight through, inflicting no damage. This creature is a Deathgaunt, an undead being summoned to the world of the living by the Wytch-king himself. Your unsuccessful assault has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect133-1-foot" idref="sect133-1"><p>If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>That night, the streets of Karnali are filled with joyous celebration. The surviving Shadakine are flushed out from their bolt-holes and imprisoned in the dungeons beneath their own fortress. It is a great victory for the brave fighters of the Freedom Guild, for at last, after many years of oppression, the people in this small corner of the Shadakine Empire are free.</p>
- <p>In a chamber in the Shadakine fortress, you sit with Urik and Sado of the Long Knife, who toasts you with a huge goblet of wine. <quote>To you, Grey Star,</quote> he says, <quote>I give my thanks and good wishes. Long may you endure.</quote></p>
- <p>But Urik sits in the corner and grumbles: <quote>Much celebration. Small victory. Shadakine Empire,</quote> and he stretches his arms wide apart, <quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-169533--><em>Big</em><!--/ERRTAG-RE-169533-->!</quote> Then placing his thumb and forefinger together, <quote>City of Karnali, small.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Urik is right,</quote> you say, <quote>but at least this is a beginning.</quote> And you smile warmly at Sado.</p>
- <p><quote>Where will you go now, Grey Star?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p><quote>West, to the Mountains of Morn&emdash;and beyond.</quote></p>
- <p>Sado gapes. <quote>To <!--ERRTAG-RE-170018--><quote>the dead lands</quote><!--/ERRTAG-RE-170018-->!</quote> he exclaims. <quote>But this is folly. None return from there. There is a sickness on the land that kills <!--ERRTAG-RE-170204-->all, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-170204--> the Mountains of Morn are impassable.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>There must be some way through them,</quote> you say, <quote>and I will find it.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>There is only one known pass,</quote> Sado continues, <quote>but it holds the greatest peril of all&emdash;Gyanima, the Forbidden City&ellips; the City of the Dead!</quote> He shakes his head solemnly. <quote>Will you not turn away from this reckless course?</quote></p>
- <p>You shrug. <quote>There is no other way. Urik's vision leads to Desolation Valley and my quest takes me there.</quote></p>
- <p>Sado falls silent and an uncomfortable quiet follows. Finally, you rise and bid Sado goodnight, for you intend to leave Karnali the following morning. <quote>I had hoped you would remain, Grey Star,</quote> he says. <quote>You are a powerful ally and I have great need of strength. Soon, the Wytch-king will seek to destroy our freedom. Without your help, our liberty may prove short-lived. Moreover, you choose a path of doom, heedless of my words of warning.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Fear not, Sado of the Long Knife,</quote> you reply. <quote>If I achieve my goal, there will be freedom for all ensnared by the cruel grasp of the Wytch-king. I do not intend to fail.</quote></p>
- <p>You leave the chamber, and close the door behind you. Despite your courageous words, a creeping uncertainty is stirring in your heart. <quote>Hmph!</quote> snorts Urik. <quote>Him brave man&ellips; but have small mind.</quote> He places a finger to his nose. <quote>Him see only this far. Young Wizard learn quickly&ellips; carry blessing of wise Shianti. You will not fail.</quote> You pray that the old Kundi man is right.</p>
- <p>You rise the following morning and prepare to leave. Your sleep has restored to you 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. Sado enters your chamber to bid you farewell. <quote>I have come to apologize for my harsh words last night,</quote> he says. <quote>It is not for me to question the way of Wizards. I am but a simple soldier. I have brought gifts by way of recompense.</quote> He lays before you the following <!--ERRTAG-RA-179317-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-179317-->:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for 5 Meals</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-172550-->Short Sword<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172550--> and Sheath (hung on a belt)<a id="sect133-1" idref="sect133-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-172651-->Backpack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172651--></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-172736-->2 Potions of Laumspur <!--/ERRTAG-RE-172736-->(<!--ERRTAG-RE-172803-->swallowing one potion<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172803--> restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-172942-->Coil of Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172942--></li>
- </ul>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You may take any or all of these <!--ERRTAG-RA-179317-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-179317-->. Remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu has a great, bloody gash on his shoulder but he has managed to slay his opponent. Now the crowd of mad courtiers attempts to halt your path; they are unarmed but filled with a raging intensity. Desperately, you try to fight your way out of the throne room.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Courtiers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you survive 3 rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unsure of your direction and physically <!--ERRTAG-RE-174093-->exhausted, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-174093--> move along the passage, unable to run any faster than a slow trot. Suddenly you hear the shouts of the enraged courtiers pursuing you once more and Hugi gives a shrill whistle. <quote>Let's hide in here,</quote> he calls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to do as Hugi suggests, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you possess the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect136-1-foot" idref="sect136-1"><p>Remember to deduct the total from your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score before turning.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You increase the power of your attack and, for one brief moment, the Kazim light is extinguished, but only to flare again with increased vigour. The Shadakine look around them; a strange mixture of fear and ferocity contorts their faces.<a id="sect136-1" idref="sect136-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to sustain the same intensity of attack, expending 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point this round, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to increase your attack by 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point making a total of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points expended this round, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw a wide pentacle around the area you have chosen to rest in. At the cost of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you chant a spell of protection that will prevent the Deathgaunts from attacking. Fighting your sense of unease, you settle down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As before, you soak the leaf and leave it to smoulder at the centre of the company. You then lie down on the ground, hungry now for sleep. (Remember to delete the Azawood leaf from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You set about the task of creating a grand illusion. A Guildsman guides you to the fortress and you begin to focus your power upon it. There are many soldiers within and it takes a considerable time to exert your influence over them. Finally, after exerting 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you are able to cease your trials. Hundreds of Shadakine pour forth from their barracks, slapping and scratching at the hordes of crawling insects that only they can see and feel. They open the gates to the fortress and run into the street where Sado's army, disguised as civilians, lies in wait.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A crossbow bolt slices through the air. You gasp with pain as it penetrates your shoulder (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Urik looks up in alarm. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> he shouts. <quote>You all right?</quote> You grit your teeth against the pain and nod. A dark stain of blood spreads across your robe. The Ooslo bird is losing height rapidly and, before the Shadakine are able to release another bolt, you are flying low enough to jump to the ground. At Urik's instruction you untie the vine, wincing with the pain of your wound, and fall to the ground without further injury.</p>
- <p>You tumble through a vast swathe of marsh grass that grows chest-high, and stretches in all directions. Urik gets to his feet and comes to inspect your wound. Bravely, you make to withdraw the shaft that protrudes from your shoulder but Urik stays your hand. <quote>No, not yet. Much bleeding if you pull the spike. We need herbs&ellips; stop bleeding&ellips; stop infection, yes?</quote> You nod in agreement. <quote>Come follow old Kundi. Find good herbs very near.</quote> He moves away, his eyes searching the ground, and you follow. Soon you reach a shallow waterway that cuts through the tall marsh grass like a trail. There, Urik finds what he is looking for and sits you down beside the little stream. <quote>Urik cannot find anything to stop pain but make sure wound heal. I must hurt you now&emdash;I am sorry.</quote></p>
- <p>With a hand both swift and sure, he pulls the bolt from your shoulder: you hiss with pain. He tears away the material of your sleeve and presses his steady hand to the wound. Then, cupping his hand, he takes some water from the stream and cleans the wound. Next, to your surprise, he grabs a handful of mud from the bottom of the stream and smears it over the injury. The cool mud eases the fire in your shoulder and, as it dries, quickly staunches the bleeding. He cleans the torn shreds of your sleeve and knots them like a bandage around your shoulder. <quote>Is good?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p><quote>I thank you, Urik,</quote> you reply. He pats your hand, affectionately.</p>
- <p><quote>No need for thanks,</quote> he says. <quote>Wise old Kundi know healing ways. Pain stop soon.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly, a terrible sound reaches your ears; a moaning howl like that of an animal in pain. Urik's face darkens and he helps you to your feet. Crouching, so that you remain hidden, you both peep across the top of the marsh grass in the direction of the sound. In a small clearing, some two hundred yards away, you see a frightened peasant&emdash;a Shadakine slave. He is struggling to control two snarling hounds who tug at the lengths of thick chain fixed to their harnesses. They are huge and fierce: each has two heads with a single horn growing at the centre of each, and <!--ERRTAG-RE-180230-->outsized<!--/ERRTAG-RE-180230--> fangs show through their slavering jowls. <quote>Master! Master!</quote> the slave calls to a tall Shadakine, undoubtedly the officer in charge. <quote>The Magdi&emdash;they smell something.</quote> The tall Shadakine officer screws up his eyes; a wicked smile plays across his face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to attempt to evade by following the waterway, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to attempt a long range attack with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are now engaged in a duel of wills. The combined <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score of the Wytch and her Stone is 40. Add together your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores and subtract this total from 40.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If your final score is 15 or higher, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If your final score is 14 or lower, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking care to shield yourself from the yellow glare of the Kazim light, you trace the shaft to its source within the fortress. The Shadakine Wytch fails to notice your presence, lurking like a crimson corona at the edge of her mind. The strain of her effort to uphold the courage of so many of her countrymen shows plainly on her pock-marked face.</p>
- <p>You then notice another mind in the chamber of the Wytch. It is that of the Warward, Kiro, the hard-faced military governor of the Shadakine garrison in Karnali. He is sweating profusely, his fear of the wrath of the Wytch-king weakening him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to control the mind of the Warward, Kiro, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to control the mind of the Shadakine Wytch, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out the red jewel. Drawing on the Power of Sorcery from the Astral plane, you project your will into the Gem and it begins to glow, shining with a blood-red light. You throw this power at the Kleasá and attempt to bend it to your will. Tanith's body becomes rigid and, stiffly, she turns her head towards you. The Kleasá remains unaffected and emits a chill laugh. You have used 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to use your Magical Power of Sorcery against the Kleasá, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229"><!--ERRTAG-RE-200965-->If you wish to use the Black Rod of Shasarak<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200965-->, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the evil cunning that you have come to expect of the Shadakine, they use their slaves as a human wall, thus preventing the masked attackers from bringing their full force to bear for fear of killing the innocent people they have come to free.</p>
- <p>You notice that the chains that manacle the slaves are all linked to one metal ring at the end of the line. If you can break the chain at this point, you will be able to free all the slaves at a stroke. Standing by this link-pin is the Shadakine slavemaster. Fearlessly, you charge. The slavemaster's eyes widen with surprise but he appears unshaken by your advance. He clutches at a red Gem at his neck and, as he does, his personal slave steps forward. Seven feet tall and with powerful muscles bulging beneath his ebony skin, he fixes you with a blank expression as he raises his huge broadsword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to attack the black giant, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to unleash a long-range attack on the slavemaster, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You mark your pentacle in the dust and begin to chant. The Deathgaunts come no further but remain outside the reach of the spell, whispering. The four of you stand huddled within the pentacle, each regarding the Deathgaunts with frightened eyes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Deathgaunts come no further but remain outside the reach of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-202815-->spell, whispering<!--/ERRTAG-RE-202815--></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="646"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="646"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> says Samu in a hushed tone. <quote>They have not departed. We cannot remain here forever.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>They can,</quote> comments Urik.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you possess some Azawood leaves, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you do not have any Azawood leaves, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no time to cast an illusion as the Shadakine are advancing fast. Instead, you try to place the compulsion to flee into their minds.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. You may add 3 to this number if you possess the Chaksu Pipes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If the number you have picked is <!--ERRTAG-RE-186211-->6&endash;12<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186211-->, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and send the power of your thought forwards in time. The use of this Magical Power costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The source of the movement is a Shadakine warrior attempting to get behind you, and your best course of action is to fire at the warrior before he can make his move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect148-1-foot" idref="sect148-1"><p>If you have not already done so, mark the Black Rod as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the Black Rod and point it towards the door.<a id="sect148-1" idref="sect148-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Willing the door to open, you notice a thin beam of yellow light strike the surface and silently it swings open to reveal another passage sloping upwards into the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to pass through the door, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you prefer to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the great damage you are inflicting on the Magdi, the enraged beast refuses to die. Try as he might, Urik is of no use&emdash;his old limbs and physical weakness make him incapable of hand to hand combat. He can only watch with fear and apprehension. His concern is so great that he fails to notice the band of Shadakine warriors stealing up on you through the dense undergrowth. As a result, you are quickly overpowered by the gloating Shadakine and, at a word from their tall sour-faced captain, the Magdi obediently ceases its attack.</p>
- <p><quote>Not much of a catch,</quote> sneers the captain, <quote>but good sport, eh?</quote> Your Staff and Backpack are taken from you and your wrists and ankles are tightly bound with leather thongs. <quote>And this is a pretty toy,</quote> he says, weighing your Staff in his hands. <quote>But tell me, who are you, boy? Speak!</quote> You remain silent. <quote>Lost your tongue, have you? Well that can be arranged, permanently!</quote> He gives you a stinging blow across the face, smiling grimly. Urik struggles angrily against the restraining hands that hold him. <quote>Be still <quote>monkey-man</quote>,</quote> he scowls, <quote>or you'll be tasting some of the same.</quote> He returns his hateful gaze to you. <quote>What are you then, boy? What do you know of the Freedom Guild? You are their spy perhaps? You serve the rebel army, do you not?</quote></p>
- <p>Still, you remain silent. You have no knowledge of the Freedom Guild he has mentioned but the thought that there exists a form of organized resistance to the evil of the Shadakine Empire is a comfort. With a look of disgust, the captain turns away. <quote>The Warward, <!--ERRTAG-RE-189306-->Kiro, will<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189306--> find out all he needs to know on our return to Karnali,</quote> he says threateningly, <quote>and Mother Niya's truthsay is hard to refuse.</quote></p>
- <p>You are unable to repress a shudder as you are reminded of the truthsay of Mother Magri and her awful Kazim Stone when first you came to the trader's city of Suhn. The Wytches of Shadaki are among the most powerful of Shasarak's servants, upholders of his corrupt law in all the major cities of the Empire.</p>
- <p><quote>Move, you scum!</quote> the captain shouts at his men. <quote>We must reach Karnali as soon as possible.</quote> He glances sideways at you, one <!--ERRTAG-RE-190011-->eyebrow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-190011--> raised. <quote>There's more to this strange pair than meets the eye,</quote> he says under his breath.</p>
- <p>You and Urik are carried by slave bearers, slung to long wooden poles like hunting trophies. Your ankles and wrists are constantly bound and you are offered the barest of scraps of food and a minimum of water. By the second day of travelling, you have lost 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and you begin to wonder if you will survive the journey as you linger in a weak, semi-conscious haze that makes the casting of any spell impossible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must eat a Meal now or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Time passes and soon you lose track of the passing hours in the pitch dark. You curse your ill-fortune, thinking that you will have to use the power of your Staff to blast a way out of your prison, but you are feeling weak and still you have to reach Desolation Valley, which is bound to hold other dangers for you. You are roused from this moody reflection by the sound of shouting voices and the noise of a struggle from above. Suddenly, the door of your prison is thrown open. Looking down on you is the broad smiling figure of Samu, bloodied broadsword in hand. <quote>But how&ellips;?</quote> stutters Hugi.</p>
- <p><quote>The river carried me way downstream before I was able to resist its current,</quote> says Samu. <quote>I've been looking all over for you. Fortunately, I was nearby when you were captured. I saw them bring you down into this crypt.</quote> He turns and slashes at a wretch who is trying to drag him away from the door. The wretch is swatted like a fly and Samu turns back to face you. <quote>Come now. We must hurry.</quote></p>
- <p>He pulls you out, each in turn, stopping to deliver a kick at two wretches who block the doorway from the crypt. <quote>This way,</quote> he says, indicating a narrow passage that leads upwards. <quote>These creatures seem reluctant to travel this passage. They will not follow us, I think.</quote> You run along the passage as fast as you can with Samu protecting the rear. At the end of the passage is a heavy door. Urik swings it open and charges through.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hardly daring to breathe, you and Urik remain crouched within the dense marsh grass. A Shadakine warrior pauses to look around only a few yards from your hiding place. He takes a step towards you, then gives a startled cry as he sinks into the quicksand which once held you. His cries for help alert a number of his fellow warriors who come to his aid, hurling jeers and insults at his apparent stupidity.</p>
- <p>Urik gives a satisfied nod and gestures for you to follow him. With quiet, tentative steps, you move away from the clamour of the Shadakine warriors, exploiting this unexpected distraction to the full. When Urik is satisfied that you have placed a sufficient distance between you and your enemy, he motions for you to sit down. With sure hands he breaks the quarrel that is embedded in your shoulder. <quote>Make no sound,</quote> whispers Urik, before pulling the bolt. You grit your teeth as he tugs at the shaft and <quote>swallow</quote> the pain. A shallow stream trickles close by and he uses its waters to clean the wound. <quote>There is good medicine here,</quote> he says, plunging his hand into the stream and withdrawing a fistful of mud, which he daubs liberally over your injury. The mud feels cool against the throbbing pain of your shoulder <!--ERRTAG-RE-193971-->and, as<!--/ERRTAG-RE-193971--> it dries, it staunches the bleeding. You thank Urik for his aid.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a chilling howl reaches your ears, sending a shiver of fear down your spine. Cautiously, Urik rises to peer along the tops of the chest-high marsh grass, searching for the source of the howl. He quickly ducks his head and turns to speak, a worried look on his face. He tells you that the Shadakine have hunting dogs and are preparing to release them. They are the Magdi: ferocious hounds with two heads&emdash;the creation of the Wytch-king Shasarak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to stand and fight the Magdi, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you prefer to run from the Magdi, following the shallow waterway that cuts through the grass, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shake your head, moulding the force of your will in an attempt to draw a <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> before you once again. <quote>We must,</quote> says Urik, urgently. But it is too late. Before you are able to complete the Shield, a hail of bolts darkens the sky. With a gasp of pain, you expel your last breath, falling back into the murky waters of the lake, your body pierced by several crossbow bolts.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The overwhelming cut and thrust of your attack has cleared a path to the large archway that is the only exit from the throne room. <quote>Now, Grey Star!</quote> shouts Samu, and with Urik and Hugi between you, you run towards the archway, thrusting glancing blows at anyone who comes too close.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is 9 or less, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If the number is 6&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ignore their evil taunting and continue towards the mountains. Slowly, the Deathgaunts drift towards you, filling your heart with panic as they draw closer and closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The confidence of the Shadakine is visibly shake when your discharge of fiery magic completely incinerates a warrior. The use of your Staff has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. You are amazed, your powers seem greatly increased since last you use them. A blast as potent as the one you have just released would normally have drained a great deal of your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>. You smile with grim satisfaction as the shocked Shadakine dive for cover.</p>
- <p>The Shadakine officer is quickly frying to restore order as the shaken Shadakine scramble behind the cover of the tall marsh grass. He orders them to ready weapons and prepare to fire. Soon, the Shadakine will be able to bring the full force of their weapons against you. You feel that you are in a hopeless situation. The Shadakine are not short of supplies and will be content to wait out this siege. Meanwhile, you have no food and no cover.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to attempt to swim away, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you possess the Magical Power of Prophecy an wish to foresee the outcome of your predicament, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The thick foliage of the marsh makes for ideal cover and the latticed network of small waterways and streams, tributaries of the Suhni River delta, are sure to confuse any tracks that you might leave. The whole verdant expanse of the Gurlu Marshes is one huge natural maze.</p>
- <p>The air is thick with humidity and an abundance of insect life. Splashing through the dark mud of the stream, you struggle to maintain a fast pace, and your efforts are well rewarded. Eventually, the sound of pursuit and the hoarse cries of the Shadakine fade into the distance. It seems that you have shaken off your pursuers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call over to Samu. <quote>Guard this entrance,</quote> you say, tying the Rope around you and indicating the hole you intend to descend into. He gives a grim nod. <quote>Hugi!</quote> you say, <quote>feed the Rope down gently.</quote></p>
- <p>With these words, you leap to the edge of the hole and begin to lower yourself down slowly. You land safely at the bottom and wait for Urik to clamber down. A lifetime of tree-life has made him more than capable of climbing safely to the ground beside you.</p>
- <p>You are standing in the middle of a honeycomb made of stone. The light of the full moon streams through the holes in the surface of the plain and the maze is bright with translucent light. Urik sniffs the air, <quote>Follow me,</quote> he says. With tension mounting in your heart, you prepare to meet your enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike a final blow, the Gatekeeper fails dead. Suddenly a host of half-naked, wild-eyed people round a street corner and surge towards you. There are over a score of men, women and children, all howling with murderous intent. Horrified, you turn and run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The urgent fury of your Staff throws the Shadakine warrior into the air and he falls to the ground, a scorched and bloody thing. The attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The mob surge forward to attack the Shadakine, hurling bricks and stones at their hated enemies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You deepen your concentration, pouring more energy into your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>, so that it grows in size to include Urik within its field of protection. This costs you another 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If the number you have picked is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A long and thorough search reveals nothing. He is not in the passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to look for Hugi in the banqueting room, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to look for Hugi in the throne room, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to continue without Hugi, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect162-1-foot" idref="sect162-1"><p>As you have used your Power of Evocation against the Deathgaunts, you should deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. (cf. <a idref="sect120">Section 120</a>)</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are trapped. The Deathgaunts remain where they are, whispering taunts and goading you to attack them if you dare. You have no choice other than to step outside the pentacle.<a id="sect162-1" idref="sect162-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Heedless of the danger to yourself, you turn and fire at the Shadakine as they tramp through the marsh grass. A bolt of force rips into the nearest Shadakine as he fumbles to reload his weapon and he falls to the ground in a blinding sheet of magical flame. Your attack has cost you only 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. You are amazed at the effect of your attack at such little cost. You conclude that your powers must have increased greatly since last you used your Staff in combat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A second Shadakine warrior confronts you, his crossbow levelled at your chest. Suddenly, before you are able to attack, Urik produces a weapon of his own. It is a small boomerang, its edges lined with a row of razor-sharp teeth. With great skill and accuracy he hurls the boomerang at the Shadakine, inflicting a fatal neck wound. Urik runs forward and retrieves his weapon from the Shadakine's neck.</p>
- <p>An enemy <!--ERRTAG-RE-203800-->swordsman<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203800--> bursts out of his hiding place among the foliage and charges towards you, his scimitar whirling above his head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to evade combat altogether, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove the long sturdy Rope from your Backpack and tie it around your waist. <quote>If I should fall, haul me up,</quote> you say. Samu nods. <quote>We'll do the same for you on the other side.</quote></p>
- <p>With your heart in your mouth, you run across the bridge; you feel a slight tremor through the stone. <quote>It doesn't look too good!</quote> you shout across to Samu. He ties his end of the Rope around his waist and, gingerly, begins his crossing. He has reached the middle of the bridge when it starts to crumble. Large slabs of stone fall away and Samu is forced to run. But he is too late&emdash;the bridge collapses at the centre and Samu disappears. Although Hugi and Urik have a tight hold of the Rope, Samu's great bulk, plus the downward pull of his fall, snatches it from their hands. You are dragged forward: the Rope is still tied around your waist!</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is 12 or higher, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is 11 or lower, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you return to the trance state that has guided you through the swamp. The air is teeming with life: the song of strange birds; the scurrying of furred rodents disturbed by your passing; and the steady hum of insects. Yet, all your attention is focused on the dim and distant future as you steer an eccentric course between the stagnant pools and ponds that are alive with creatures of every imagining.</p>
- <p>The humid atmosphere makes every step a labour and you make slow progress. When sunset finally comes, you are still in the swampland, and fatigue forces you to rest for the night. The sheer exertion of walking causes you to lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Urik sights a stretch of dry land and you head towards it, relieved to cease the strain of maintaining your trance. The air is alive with nocturnal insects and, to your dismay, you notice the distinct, vermilion bodies of winged Blood Nymphs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-214623-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-214623-->, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw open the nearest door and enter the building which, after a quick search, proves to be empty. As you start to leave, Urik shouts a warning, but it is too late. Just as you walk through the door a Dead City wretch coshes you with a wooden club. You do not have time to react and the blow knocks you unconscious. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>When you regain consciousness you are lying in the dark with your Wizard's Staff by your side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to make a light from your Staff at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A powerful wind blows through your hair as the Shadakine fall upon you, cuffing you to pieces with their curved scimitars.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage has been carved from the bedrock of the Mountains of Morn. At the end of the corridor is a wall of fire, burning with a fierce intensity. You stop, deep in thought. <quote>How are we to pass through that?</quote> Samu asks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-208862-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-208862--> of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to fire at the wall of flame with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to pass through the wall of flames, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely, Samu charges at the Deathgaunt, launching a flurry of strokes at it with his broadsword. To your dismay, the blade passes through the body of the Deathgaunt, which remains completely unaffected. <quote>Grey Star,</quote> the Deathgaunt says, in a soft echoing whisper. <quote>I have come for you.</quote> It reaches out a transparent hand and lays it on your head. An icy chill rushes through your body and you are instantly drained of 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is now 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total has now fallen to 9 or lower, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place your hand upon the door and concentrate hard. The key that opens the door is the Black Rod<!--ERRTAG-DE-229487/-->.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><!--ERRTAG-RE-229727-->If you wish to use the Black Rod to open the magic-locked door<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229727-->, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you would rather use the Magical Power of Sorcery to open the door and possess 3 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cowering with fear, you step back, flinching at the sight of the sinister spectre. Silently, it reaches out a transparent hand and touches your forehead. The cold of the Deathgaunt's touch freezes your very soul. You fall to the ground, plunging into the dark well of unconsciousness. You have lost 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If <!--ERRTAG-RE-211489-->your current<!--/ERRTAG-RE-211489--> <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is now 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is now 9 or lower, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In desperation, you hurl the Black Rod of Shasarak at the shadow beast. The demon towers above you and your heart is filled with dread as the Kleasá is unharmed by the impact of the Black Rod. The rod falls with a clatter to the rocky floor and swiftly, the Kleasá stoops and picks it up.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>That evening, Samu and Urik return with an abundance of game, wild berries and Lianor. After the meat has been cooked and the food shared out, you find that you have far more food than you can carry. You may carry as much food as you wish but remember that one Meal counts as <!--ERRTAG-RE-220402-->one item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-220402--> in your <!--ERRTAG-RE-212763-->Backpack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-212763-->.</p>
- <p>The following morning you pass into the region known as the dead lands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on the energy of the Astral plane, the source of power for the magic of Sorcery. You draw just 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point of energy (cross this off your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and cast it at the Gem. Immediately, it begins to glow with a rosy hue. As you merge your power with that of the Gem you begin to understand its true nature. The Gem is a transmitter of thought, a device capable of increasing and amplifying mental energy. This is how it enables others, even the unskilled, to exert control over the minds of men. Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-213699-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-213699--> of Sorcery will allow you to transmit this power great distances.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to exert 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your attempt to control the mind of the user of the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to exert 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your attempt to control the mind of the user of the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach a tall, dusty building with a high-domed roof. You turn the door handle. Nothing happens; it is locked. As you release the handle, you hear the scuffle of naked feet coming from behind the door. The thief, Hugi, produces a large set of keys. <quote>Do you want it opened?</quote> he asks, confidently.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you want him to open the door, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump to the door to impede their escape and deal wide, slashing blows at the wretches. Despite their fear, they fight back with all the strength their wasted bodies will allow.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Dead City Wretches</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Finally the second dog weakens and dies and you breathe a sigh of relief. You have expended a great deal of energy in the fight but, at Urik's insistence, you travel as fast as the muddy ground will allow, following the winding course of the shallow waterway and crouching low below the line of the tall marsh grass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you cast an illusion transforming your companions and yourself into the guise of ragged courtiers. When the guards and the crowd have rushed past, you run in the opposite direction. <quote>Follow me!</quote> says Hugi. <quote>I've found a way out of here.</quote> He leads you back to the throne room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lunge at the giant but his reflexes are surprisingly quick and your blow misses. With colossal strength, the giant brings his sword down on your neck, killing you instantly.</p>
- <p>You are dead. Your quest has failed.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a brief pause, the group of Shadakine warriors comes wading through the marsh grass. The leader barks commands, ordering his men into positions that provide them with cover. There is no sense of urgency in their actions and they seem unconcerned by the possibility that you may pose any kind of threat to them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to make a long-range attack with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you <!--ERRTAG-AD-217680-->possess the Magical Power of Sorcery, and <!--/ERRTAG-AD-217680-->wish to form a <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> around you, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on the vibrant energy of your will, shaping it to your needs by creating a shimmering force field before you. <quote>Urik,</quote> you call, <quote>behind me quickly.</quote> Urik obeys. The tension mounts as you await discovery.</p>
- <p>The use of this Magical Power has, so far, cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183"><link-text>Turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu appears at your side and attacks the writhing creature with his broadsword. Hugi and Urik grab you by your cloak and pull you away from the fight as Samu's sword cuts back and forth in wide sweeping arcs. <quote>He more danger to you than Scree Wyrm,</quote> shouts Urik, pointing at Samu, who is lost in a berserk fury.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Samu, lost in a berserk fury, battles with the Scree Wyrm</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly, a loud cry makes you start. It is Hugi&emdash;he is struggling in the bony coils of another Scree Wyrm. You dare not attack the creature with a blast from your Staff for fear of hitting the struggling thief.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you decide to engage the creature in close combat, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you do not wish to attack the Scree Wyrm, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brief moments that pass before the first of the Shadakine spots you feel like an eternity. Instantly he throws himself to the ground and rolls behind a rock at the edge of the lake. He shouts to his comrades and the tall rushes shiver and sway as the warriors approach.</p>
- <p>You hear a sharp command and, immediately afterwards, a dozen crossbow bolts whistle through the air only to be deflected by your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>. All falls strangely silent. Suddenly, a second volley of quarrels shoots towards you, only to be deflected in the same way. This time, however, you feel your Shield weaken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to expend more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to strengthen your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to leave it at the same strength, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been walking down the passage for several minutes when Samu suddenly notices that Hugi is missing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to go back along the passage to look for Hugi, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to look for Hugi in the banqueting room, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to look for Hugi in the throne room, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to continue without Hugi, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the ferocious hound snapping at your heels, you and Urik thread your way along the shallow waterway leading from the bog. Sadly the muddy ground slows your progress and you are unable to <!--ERRTAG-RE-221532-->outrun<!--/ERRTAG-RE-221532--> the wild beast. Instead, you stop suddenly and swing your Staff in an arc that smashes into the Magdi's snout. It is not a serious injury but your bravado has paid off. The Magdi is too stunned to move against you, one head lolling uselessly to one side in a daze and the other too confused to understand what has happened.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to kill the Magdi, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to flee, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hugi examines the bridge <!--ERRTAG-RE-222293-->closely. After<!--/ERRTAG-RE-222293--> a short spell of deliberation, he turns and says, <quote>It will bear our weight, but it would be best if we cross one at a time. Who wants to go first?</quote> He steps away, indicating that he has no intention of crossing first.</p>
- <p>Urik gives him a disapproving look and steps forward. <quote>I am Kundi, an old man, but do not fear to cross.</quote> After scowling at Hugi, he runs across the bridge as fast as his old bones will allow. A cloud of dust falls from the bridge and a couple of loose stones tumble and fall into the black water below.</p>
- <p><quote>Me next,</quote> says Hugi, running across the bridge with nimble feet before anyone can try to take his place. His light passage makes no impression on the bridge and he calls across to you and Samu. <quote>It's perfectly safe,</quote> he says, unhelpfully.</p>
- <p>Samu turns to you: <quote>I am the heaviest. You should go next.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you do not have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a short wait, a Rock Giant burrows its way into the passage. It strides purposefully through the wall of flame and does not return. You have learnt nothing and the wall of flame remains. The use of this spell has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to fire at the wall of flame with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to walk through the wall of fire, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim a bolt of energy from your Staff at the nearest crossbowman and fire. A streak of white-hot fire slices through the air, exploding into a massive wall of flame that engulfs the howling Shadakine warrior. The man is completely incinerated and all that remains is a smoking crater in the ground. The Ooslo gives a cry of distress, soaring up into the air at high speed. Below, the Shadakine break and scatter in all directions, plunging into the tall marsh reeds that surround them.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The effect of your attack leaves you quite amazed. Your powers are greatly increased since last you used them. At the cost of only 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points (remember to deduct these from your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total), you have delivered an attack that, previously, would have drained a great deal more.</p>
- <p>You are now high in the air and the Shadakine have all moved out of sight. You begin to wonder, however, exactly how to control your feathered mount. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If the number you have picked is 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If the number you have chosen is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You totter on unsteady feet. The exertion has made you weak but the supportive hand of Samu bears you up. <quote>Are you all right?</quote> he asks. You nod. <quote>Then I must away,</quote> says Samu, drawing his great sword. <quote>The Shadakine must be purged from my land forever!</quote> He turns and runs towards the noise of battle with an easy, athletic stride. Your efforts have drained you of 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kazim light gutters as the energy of your Staff absorbs and consumes its fulvous light. The Shadakine stand frozen, their faces racked with fear and uncertainty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are wrenched towards the very edge of the falling bridge. Helplessly, Samu dangles at the end of the Rope, looking at the fast-moving waters of the Belzar. <quote>I&ellips; I can't hold it,</quote> you shout in a strained voice to Urik and Hugi. They start forward, but as they step on to the bridge, bricks and stones fail into the river at an alarming rate. <quote>Stop!</quote> you scream, <quote>or we're all doomed!</quote></p>
- <p>Before anyone can act; the strain on the Rope is suddenly released and you fall backwards. Samu, seeing your plight, has cut the Rope with his sword, allowing himself to fall into the running water. Horrified, you watch as Samu struggles against the current. Then he is gone; there is no trace. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> Urik shouts. <quote>Come away&ellips; the bridge!</quote> Eyes blurred with tears, you stagger away from the bridge. Too numb to speak, the three of you walk towards the gate of the Forbidden City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pour more energy into your <spell><!--ERRTAG-RE-228226-->Shield of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-228226--></spell> so that Urik and the Ooslo bird are secure within its protection. This exertion costs you 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. It is a wise move as you soon find out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Black Rod suddenly erupts into flame in your hand. You scream with pain as the yellow fire shoots up your arm and explodes within your body. You fall to the ground before the Shadow Gate. Tanith calls out your name but you have no ears to hear; you are a victim of the malignant fire of Shasarak. The last sound that you hear is the Wytch-king's snarling laughter.</p>
- <p>You have failed before the very gateway of your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following morning, Urik scouts the ground. You both decide to head for the city of Karnali which stands on the northernmost edge of the Gurlu Marsh, on the far side of the Suhni River. Urik explains that you are about to enter the heart of the swamp and the danger is sure to increase. He takes you to the top of a low hill and you survey the land ahead. You have the choice of two routes. To the north-west, the land comprises a mixture of low, twisted bushes and shrubs, further on, a jungle of gnarled, lichenous trees. The more direct route lies to the north but the land there is more perilous. Tall marsh grass abruptly gives way to a broad expanse of <!--ERRTAG-RE-229924-->quagmire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229924--> and bog, interspersed with squat, black trees and stagnant pools. Urik tells you that the ground is highly treacherous, containing concealed quicksand and soft mud.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to take the slower route to the north-west, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you wish to take the more direct route to the north, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stark land is silent: no bird sings, no flower grows. The silence is oppressive and your senses recoil against the evil of the place. You have entered <quote>the dead lands</quote>.</p>
- <p>As you walk, you kick up clouds of ash and dust. Everywhere it is impossibly grey&emdash;the very soil has been charred to cinders. <quote>How&ellips;</quote> you breathe into the silence, <quote>how in the world did this happen? What could blight the land as utterly as this?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You do not know the legend?</quote> asks Hugi, surprised.</p>
- <p>You shake your head. <quote>Go on,</quote> you say, if only for the comfort of another human voice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the giant charges towards you, the silver flame of your Staff kills the slavemaster instantly. The use of this spell has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The giant falters, apparently confused. He shakes his head and looks at his sword as if it was not his own. The Gem around the slavemaster's neck continues to glow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to attack the <!--ERRTAG-RE-231868-->giant, <link-text>turn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-231868--> to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to take the Gem from around the dead slavemaster's neck, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wretch lies dead at your feet. Hugi taps you on the shoulder and points down the street. A swarm of howling wretches is charging towards you. There are hundreds of them: a ragged, tattered army of madmen, besmirched with grime and dust. The curse of the city of the dead is upon them. It is the curse of a life spent amongst mouldering ruins and decay, of an existence that has endured against the utter desolation of <quote>the dead lands</quote>.</p>
- <p>Immediately, you turn and run, as do Hugi and Urik. The wailing pack are close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84"><link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hold the Gem tightly in your hand and allow its power to flood through you. Immediately, your mind is assailed by a multitude of memories, for the Gem is ancient. You sense the good and ill-wills of those who have possessed the Gem in the past; easiest to define is the evil of the Shadakine slavemaster who owned it last. Uncomprehending of its power, he had used it for petty thefts and crimes, manipulating those who had earned his displeasure.</p>
- <p>You gradually come to understand the true nature of the Gem. It is a transmitter of thought, a <!--ERRTAG-RE-241339-->magical item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-241339--> capable of increasing and amplifying mental energy. It is capable of controlling only one mind at a time, but your Magical Power of Sorcery will enable you to transmit this power across a great distance. The use of the Power of Psychomancy has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>You exert 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and attempt to control the mind of the user of the Kazim Stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate the power of your mind, shaping your will to the creation of a magical force field. You complete your spell just in time to deflect the dark cloud of crossbow bolts that whistle towards you. Angered by his failure, the Shadakine officer orders his men to reload. A second volley comes hurtling towards you, only to be deflected in the same way, but this time, your Shield weakens.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to expend more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on strengthening your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is the last day of your tortuous journey. You are roused by the cries of the Shadakine and, a few minutes later, you are dumped on the ground by the slave bearers. <quote>Beware, the fighters of the Freedom League!</quote> You see little of the battle that ensues. You glimpse many soldiers with red veils over their faces and the fall of the cruel Shadakine captain.</p>
- <p>Finally, the battle ceases and you and Urik are freed from your bonds by the red-veiled soldiers. <quote>My thanks,</quote> you say, as your Staff and Backpack are returned to you.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You are lucky, friend,</quote> says one of the soldiers. <quote>We are only scouts, clearing the way for tomorrow's attack upon a Shadakine slave train.</quote> You are given food and enjoy a comfortable sleep that restores to you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Closing your eyes, you summon a vision of the future at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-244150-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-244150--> tells you that the wall of flames will not burn you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deadly clutch of the Deathgaunt forces you to your knees. You are already too weak to resist and you quickly pass into the realm of the undead to join the ranks of Shasarak's army of tormented souls.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you cast about yourself the illusion that you are an old beggar and hurriedly cross the street. The escort look on in amazement and, totally confused, flee the wrath of the advancing Shadakine. Urik, however, with his long tail and eccentric feathered dress, attracts the attention of the Shadakine, one of whom charges straight at him with his sword held high.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to fire a long-range attack from your Staff at the Shadakine warrior threatening Urik, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you wish to charge the Shadakine and fight with him in close combat, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wide road, the great Suhn Road, runs parallel to the river. You see a long line of men, women and children marching slowly along the road away from the city like forsaken souls journeying towards their doom. Shadakine warriors walk up and down the line, brandishing their flails brutally.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> says Urik, <quote>I thought&ellips; There are others here in marsh. They&ellips;</quote> Before he can finish, a wave of men pour out of the brush that lines the marsh and run towards the column of slaves with a roar, waving their swords above their heads. They wear veils over their faces, but otherwise share no common uniform.</p>
- <p>The few Shadakine guards fall into defensive positions along the road, but the swiftness of the ambush prevents them from deploying effectively. Only a few of the veiled soldiers are felled by a volley of crossbow bolts before the Shadakine are beset by their attackers. <quote>Shall we?</quote> you ask Urik. A broad smile creases his old face and he gives vent to a bellowing yell as he shambles out of the brush towards the fray as fast as his old bones will permit. You follow close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144"><link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense the dismay of the Wytch as plainly as if it were your own, as you quench the light of her Kazim Stone. Quickly, you withdraw your power before she finds some other way to attack you&emdash;you feel very faint after your prolonged test of minds. You have exerted 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and lost 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect206-1-foot" idref="sect206-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wielding your Staff high above your head, you wait for your chance to strike. Hugi manages to wriggle free from the coils of the beast and, as he rolls clear, you bring your Staff down with a mighty blow. A crackle of energy rips through the creature as your Staff crushes its head. The Scree Wyrm contracts into a knot and flips over and over in the throes of death to disappear from sight into one of the many pot-holes that dot the plain. You have lost 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point effecting this attack.<a id="sect206-1" idref="sect206-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect207-1-foot" idref="sect207-1"><p>You are forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sado prepares his men to charge. A familiar yellow light attracts your attention, shining from the highest turret of the fortress. It can only be the light of the Kazim Stone, a powerful instrument of pain in the hands of a Shadakine Wytch.</p>
- <p>The yellow glow expands and then envelopes the flagging soldiers who stand before the fortress. You see their resolve tighten as the Kazim Stone robs them of their fear. <quote>Sorcery!</quote> breathes Sado in a desperate voice. You feel the gaze of Sado and his men burning into you like an accusation. Slowly, the Shadakine advance, tightening the ragged line of their defence in preparation for a <!--ERRTAG-RE-241378-->counterattack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-241378-->; they move like automatons as the Kazim Stone burns into their minds.<a id="sect207-1" idref="sect207-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it against the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it against the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to challenge the power of the Kazim Stone with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Casting your mind back, you recall seeing a proliferation of Mustow pods growing in the Gurlu Marshes. These strange, fungal growths are renowned for their pungent odour when broken open. At your command, a large number of these are brought to you by some of Sado's followers. You order that the Mustow pods be hurled over the walls of the fortress in large numbers, and soon many Shadakine can be seen pouring out of their barracks, eyes streaming, as the Mustow pods explode within the fortress, emitting great clouds of foul-smelling gas. The gates are thrown open and a horde of Shadakine spill into the street where Sado's army, disguised as civilians, lie in wait.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature floats across the river. Within the shimmering tatters of its grey robe, you perceive the dim outline of a tormented and eyeless face. It is a Deathgaunt, an undead spirit raised by Shasarak, the Wytch-king, to roam the world of the living.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the fire rages all around, you fall into the trance state necessary to transport your mind to the Elemental plane. A silent scream of fear howls amidst images of fire and such is the urgency of your need, you expend 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The smoke and heat are beginning to choke you and still no answer comes from the Elemental plane. Urik suddenly slumps to your feet, barely conscious.</p>
- <p>Your mind is then offered a strange vision, further evidence of the growth of your powers and the strength of your mastery over the Lesser Magicks. Four humanoid figures appear, representatives of the four Elements of Earth, Wind, Fire and Water, their bodies formed of the Element they represent. Each bows in turn, aims outstretched in a humble gesture. You must choose the Element you wish to help you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you require the aid of the Element of Air, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you choose the Element of Water, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you choose the Element of Fire, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you choose the Element of Earth, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brace yourself for combat but the man in the shadows quickly sheathes his sword and steps out of the darkness. It is Samu, the ebony giant you saved from the mind grip of the slavemaster. He strides towards you, hand outstretched in a gesture of greeting. <quote>You are leaving Karnali?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p><quote>I must,</quote> you say, solemnly. <quote>I must reach Desolation Valley beyond the Mountains of Morn before the turning of the next full moon.</quote></p>
- <p>Samu raises his eyebrows in surprise. <quote>You are going into the dead lands?</quote> he asks. <quote>None has ever returned from there: you will perish for sure.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I have to try, or die in the attempt. There's too much at stake.</quote> You briefly describe the nature of your quest and its ultimate goal: to throw down the Wytch-king and all his works.</p>
- <p>Samu is silent for a while, deep in thought. Once, he was a proud king, the ruler of a nomadic people called the <!--ERRTAG-RE-245937-->Masbaté<!--/ERRTAG-RE-245937-->, a warrior nation that dwelt upon the rolling savannah of the Great <!--ERRTAG-RE-246059-->Lissan<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246059--> Plain. Of his brave people, only he remains, the sole survivor of the depredations of the Wytch-king of Shadaki; riven of his family, his nation and of hope by the cruelty of an inhuman tyrant. With smouldering eyes that hint at his bitter loss, he looks down on you. <quote>I will come with you, I think,</quote> he says. <quote>You will have need of my strength to partner your bravery.</quote></p>
- <p>You thread your way among the dark, deserted streets of Karnali and leave by the west gate. With a man such as this by your side, how can you fail?</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We are friends, Gatekeeper. Open up now,</quote> you say, uncomfortably.</p>
- <p><quote>State your business,</quote> the Gatekeeper replies.</p>
- <p><quote>We are merchants,</quote> continues Hugi, taking up the charade. <quote>Here to trade our silks for the rich treasures of Gyanima.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What's the password?</quote> the Gatekeeper snaps. <quote>You can't come in if you don't know the password.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Crows foot!</quote> says Hugi immediately and more than a little hopefully.</p>
- <p>The Gatekeeper holds his hand out in front of his face and looks it up and down as if checking off an invisible list. <quote>No, that was yesterday. You've given me the <!--ERRTAG-RA-247640-->Luneday<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247640--> password.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But today is <!--ERRTAG-RA-247640-->Luneday<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247640-->,</quote> replies Hugi indignantly.</p>
- <p><quote>It is?</quote> says the Gatekeeper, astonished. Mutely, all three of you nod your heads. <quote>Very well then, you may pass.</quote></p>
- <p>The Gatekeeper vanishes and moments later reappears in the archway, lifting the non-existent bar on the non-existent gate and ushering you in with a show of great respect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A minute passes and the door slides shut as silently as it opened. Gradually, you sense that the room is becoming colder. A chill wind rises from nowhere, sending a shiver down your spine. It is not ordinary cold air causing you to tremble, it is the familiar presence of a Deathgaunt. It materializes in the centre of the cavern, close to where you stand. <quote>Welcome,</quote> it hisses <!--ERRTAG-RE-248793-->menacingly, as<!--/ERRTAG-RE-248793--> it stretches out its wispy fingers to claw at your soul. You fight to hang on to life, but it is a fight that you cannot win. Here, in the chamber of Shasarak the Wytch-king, the Deathgaunt draws on a power that you cannot resist, and you are borne swiftly from the realm of the living.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before going to sleep that night, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The following morning you continue your journey. Hugi has made no attempt to escape, but he keeps very quiet, especially when Samu is around.</p>
- <p>As the miles pass by, the Mountains of Morn loom larger in the distance, aloof and forbidding. The land is becoming sparse of vegetation as you approach the region known as <quote>the dead lands</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you have no more food in your Backpack and want to gather supplies before going any further, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you have enough food to complete your quest, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steeling yourself, you launch a massive bolt of mental energy at the magic-locked door. There is a deafening shriek as the bolt glances off the granite surface and explodes into the ceiling of the chamber. A shower of rock and dust rains down and a shock wave throws you to the floor. You realize that the door is held by a power far greater than your own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224"><!--ERRTAG-AD-272010-->If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-272010--></choice>
- <choice idref="sect242"><!--ERRTAG-RE-272227-->If you do not possess either of these skills, or do not wish to use them<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272227-->, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The broad, dark leaves of the Azawood tree are much sought after by alchemists and magicians, for the smoke of the burning leaves is said to grant protection against the forces of evil, and when dried and crushed, they can be sprinkled into various potions as a charm to increase magical potency.</p>
- <p>You may break off three of these leaves and place them in your Herb Pouch. Remember to mark these <!--ERRTAG-RA-259336-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-259336--> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and don't forget that your Herb Pouch can hold only a maximum of <!--ERRTAG-RE-251729-->eight<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251729--> <!--ERRTAG-RA-259336-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-259336--> at any one time.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257"><link-text>Turn to <!--ERRTAG-RE-251871-->257</link-text>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251871--></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night falls before Samu and Urik return. They have caught fresh game and Urik has discovered a store of Lianor. After the meat has been cooked over the fire and the food shared equally amongst the four of you, you discover that there is enough food for six Meals.</p>
- <p>The following morning, you come to the region that men call <!--ERRTAG-RE-252419--><quote>the dead lands</quote><!--/ERRTAG-RE-252419-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dwarfed by the looming shadow beast, you step forward. You offer the Black Rod of Shasarak with a terrible fear in your heart. The demon surges towards you and the Black Rod is drawn from your grasp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A flash of gleaming white light leaps from your Staff, tearing open the darkness of the night. The pallid glow of the Kazim light shrinks, curls, and is utterly consumed by the force of your challenge. The Shadakine panic and run, casting their weapons and armour aside as they scatter in all directions. The soldiers of the Freedom Guild give vent to a victorious cry as Sado of the Long Knife leads them into the fortress of stone.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>A flash of gleaming white light leaps from your staff, tearing open the darkness of the night</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect48">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is 15 or higher, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is <!--ERRTAG-RE-253812-->12&endash;14<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253812-->, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is 11 or lower, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As politely as you can, in the face of your obvious horror at the provender laid before you, you refuse. The deranged king's face contorts with fury. <quote>You dare to insult the Imperial Court of Gyanima!</quote> he roars. At once the assembled nobles turn into a snarling mob.</p>
- <p><quote>Guards!</quote> The guards of the king, armed with javelins, enter the banqueting room. Their aim is deadly and true. Before you have had the opportunity to defend yourself, your heart is impaled upon a steel point.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You begin to climb the stairway but you have only taken a dozen steps when suddenly they collapse, dropping you, Urik and Hugi to the ground in a cloud of dust and rotten wood. You have lost 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the fall.</p>
- <p>As you are picking yourselves up, a crowd of wretches pours into the side street. A large, hairy man carrying a wooden club, gives you a malicious grin. <quote>Big trouble,</quote> comments Urik, as you are led away by the mob.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41"><link-text>Turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell Sado of your plan and he nods his approval. You leave the large cavern and ascend into the city. Standing on a city wall, you place the Pipes to your lips and blow. The sound is very <!--ERRTAG-RE-255831-->high-pitched<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255831--> and you can hear nothing but Urik places his hands to his ears. An hour later, you see some movement on the edge of the swamp: the Chaksu have answered your call just as you had hoped. Quickly, you leave the city wall and tell Sado to proceed with the rest of his plan&emdash;to attack the Shadakine garrison housed in a fortress in the heart of the city.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Disguised as ordinary citizens, you, Urik and Sado lie in wait on a street that borders the granite fortress of the Shadakine. As the first of the Chaksu smashes down the east gate of the city, the alarm is raised and a host of Shadakine warriors pours out of the fortress to meet the peril.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> and fire. At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you hurl a bolt of force in the direction of the movement. A bright plume of flame erupts among the marsh reeds and a terrible scream breaks the heavy silence of the swamp. A Shadakine warrior staggers to his feet, a ball of raging fire. Wreathed in flames, he stumbles through the foliage, clawing desperately at his body before plunging into the lake to extinguish the fire. As he hits the water, the two Eijalfish dart towards him.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>We go?</quote> asks Urik, half-rising to his feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to use this chance to swim away, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you would prefer to recreate your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> instead, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare at the magic-locked door and concentrate on the secret that will open its lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you possess the Black Rod, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a small clearing that is sheltered by a <!--ERRTAG-RE-258284-->toa tree<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258284-->. Curled in its shade, you see a strange, reptilian creature, four feet long, with large, soft eyes that look at you pleadingly with more than a hint of human intelligence. A large wound oozes blood from its side. Urik explains that it is a young Chaksu, a much sought after beast. The adult grows to as much as ten feet in height and Chaksu hide is an expensive commodity, much in demand due to its toughness and elasticity. It is said that the wealth of the city of Karnali that stands on the edge of the Gurlu Marshes was built upon its trade in Chaksu hides and hunters frequently come to the marshes in search of their fortune.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>A young Chaksu, a much sought after beast</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="639"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="639"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Chaksu are capable of a primitive form of mind speech and you can clearly sense its distress. As Urik moves to tend its wound, the Shadakine break from cover and come running straight at you. It was these same Shadakine that injured the young Chaksu, leaving it for dead when they sighted you and Urik.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to make a stand in this clearing and protect the Chaksu from further harm, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to flee, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a state of anxiety, you throw the force of your will into the formation of a <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>. Your undisciplined state of mind and the need for haste rather than precision, causes you to expend as much as 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The air shimmers before you but you have acted wisely and just in time to deflect the volley of quarrels that flies towards you. At last, the Earth Elemental makes his presence known. A ripple, like a single fold moving across the land, emerges beneath the feet of the Shadakine warriors. <!--ERRTAG-RE-260256-->Then, suddenly, a<!--/ERRTAG-RE-260256--> miniature earthquake erupts beneath their feet scattering those not killed.</p>
- <p><quote>Urik,</quote> you say, <quote>is there anything you can do about the Eijalfish?</quote> He gives <!--ERRTAG-RE-260509-->you a broad<!--/ERRTAG-RE-260509--> grin and produces a small boomerang lined with rows of tiny, razor-sharp teeth. He throws the boomerang at the eye stalks of the Eijalfish. Neatly, it slices an eye before twisting in the air and returning to land at his feet. A slick of green blood discolours the water where the Eijalfish was.</p>
- <p><quote>Time to go?</quote> says Urik, still grinning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to build a <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> around yourself at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you have the Mind Gem and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to draw on the energy of the Astral plane and throw it against the creature at the cost of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call on the Element of Water in the language of the Elementals. In the space of a heartbeat, the waters of the lake swirl and rise high into the air dispersing the flames.</p>
- <p>A ball of water and flame splashes your arm, burning through the material of your robe and scorching your flesh. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, the crisis has passed and the water settles back to its former self, the flames now extinguished.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rippling shadow of the Kleasá blurs momentarily and the yellow eyes like fangs shine with hunger that almost forces you to step back, such is the intensity of the malice glinting there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to fire a beam at the Kleasá, using the power of the Black Rod, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to throw the Black Rod at the Kleasá, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you wish to give the Black Rod to the Kleasá, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With eyes closed, you send the power of your thought racing out to the Elemental plane, the realm of the powers of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. At the expense of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you make contact but a strange phenomenon occurs that you have never encountered before. Instead of the silent aid of the Elementals, you are confronted by four humanoid beings of normal stature but each composed of the element that it represents. You give a grim smile; surely this is evidence of the growing mastery of <!--ERRTAG-RA-271671-->your Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-271671-->? Each of the beings gives a bow, their arms opened wide in a gesture of humble service.</p>
- <p>You must choose which Element you wish to aid you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you choose the Element of Air, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you choose the Element of Fire, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you choose the Element of Earth, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you choose the Element of Water, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With closed eyes and at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you concentrate on the future. You try to uncover the nature of your peril and your vision warns you of an imminent attack. A wild, filth-encrusted man, dressed in rags jumps from the roof of a small building to your left. With a sure-footed <!--ERRTAG-RE-269658-->sidestep<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269658--> you dodge aside and then turn to face him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to fire a long-range attack at the man who claws the ground where you once stood, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to close in and fight him hand-to-hand, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to evade combat by running into a side street, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trembling as the icy cold washes through your body, you sink to your knees, hovering on the very edge of unconsciousness. The Deathgaunt fades and as you see it dematerialize, you fall into darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tip the contents of the sack on to the rough stone floor. The moonlight illuminates a grisly assortment of bones and skulls. Hugi wanders over to your side, his curiosity aroused by the promise of plunder. He kicks the tangle of bones and uncovers a small velvet pouch. Eagerly, he snatches the bag to his chest and rips open the drawstring. The little sack contains five Nobles and a Gold Tooth. Hugi grins, his teeth glinting in the ashen light as he swiftly pockets the money. He offers the Gold Tooth to you as your share of the loot. If you wish to keep the Gold Tooth, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item and keep it in a pocket of your robe.</p>
- <p>The others are getting restless&emdash;they are eager to reach the surface. Without further delay you lead them up the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release a beam of radiant energy at the sickly yellow light of the Kazim Stone. The Kazim light flickers and fades briefly before surging back with renewed vigour. Your attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to throw more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points into your attack, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you possess the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-267769-->Waist-deep<!--/ERRTAG-RE-267769--> in the marsh, you keep perfectly still, counting the rapid beat of your heart but not daring even to breathe. Very gradually you feel yourself sinking. Urik has fallen on solid ground, but looks completely unharmed. You look towards him, helplessly. He places a finger to his lips and slowly reaches out for your Staff which, miraculously, you have managed to retain. After what seems an eternity, he grasps the end of your Staff and begins to pull. As the shouts of the Shadakine grow fainter, Urik manages to pull you free.</p>
- <p>Just as you are thinking how lucky you have been, you hear a new and ominous sound, a discordant howling that makes your blood run cold. Cautiously, you raise your head and peer along the tops of the rushes. Standing in a small clearing, some two hundred yards off, you see a frightened-looking peasant&emdash;a Shadakine slave. He is barely able to control two snarling hounds, who tug at the lengths of chain attached to their harnesses. These are no ordinary hounds: they each have two heads with a single horn protruding from each, and a pair of <!--ERRTAG-RE-268916-->outsized<!--/ERRTAG-RE-268916--> fangs showing through their slavering jowls. Urik peers over your shoulder and swears under his breath. <quote>Big trouble, Wizard,</quote> he mutters. <quote>They catch our scent pretty soon.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly the peasant calls out. <quote>Master! Master!</quote> he cries to a tall Shadakine, undoubtedly the officer in charge. <quote>The Magdi&emdash;they smell something.</quote> The tall Shadakine officer screws up his eyes, a wicked smile playing across his face. You must act and quickly. There is no time to prepare any elaborate magic before the Shadakine officer releases his monstrous hounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">A shallow waterway leads away from the bog and if you wish to enter this, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you prefer to attempt a long-range attack with your <!--ERRTAG-RE-269838-->Wizard's Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269838-->, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plunge into the waters of the lake and splash your way to the far shore. Suddenly a volley of arrows burrows into your flesh, inflicting mortal wounds. Your body stiffens and you sink to the bottom of the lake.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wield the Power of Sorcery against the door. In a flash of sparks, your energy bolt ricochets off the granite surface and slams into the cavern floor inches from Hugi's feet. You sense that the door is held by a power far greater than your own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224"><!--ERRTAG-AD-293821-->If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-293821--></choice>
- <choice idref="sect242"><!--ERRTAG-RE-2940381-->If you do not possess either of these skills, or do not wish to use them<!--/ERRTAG-RE-2940381-->, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the red Mind Gem and stare at it for a few minutes&emdash;you have never used anything like this before. You must now decide on the most effective way of fighting the Kazim light that controls the Shadakine like puppets.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you wish to attempt to control the mind of the user of the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you wish to try to wrest control of the minds of the approaching Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sky darkens and storm clouds gather to hurl gouts of rain upon you, as you are cut to pieces by the advancing Shadakine.</p>
- <p>Your quest is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This wall of fire is nothing but an illusion, cast long ago by the wizard of Taklakot. Something of great importance must lie beyond this stone doorway. You pass through the flames and, as you cross the threshold, the flames simply melt away: you have dispelled the wizard's illusion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wretch tumbles across the floor in a cloud of dirt and dust, stunned and dazed by the speed of your evasion. He never regains his feet; you throw a blast from your Staff that tears his body apart. Your attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually you become aware that the temperature is dropping. A chill wind rises from nowhere and a shiver runs down your spine. But it is not the cold air that causes you to shake, it is the familiar presence of a Deathgaunt. It materializes in the centre of the cavern, close to where you stand. <quote>Welcome,</quote> it hisses, menacingly, its icy talons clutching at your life and soul. You fight to hold on to your life but it is a fight you cannot win. Here, in the chamber of Shasarak the Wytch-king, the Deathgaunt draws on a power that you cannot resist and swiftly you are borne away from the realm of the living.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run across the plain, half-dragging Urik along with you. <quote>Where is it?</quote> you cry, desperately.</p>
- <p><quote>Down&ellips; below our feet. I feel it but cannot see it.</quote></p>
- <p>The Scree Wyrm slithers towards you and Samu battles the monster as it tries to coil around him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to try to help Samu, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If not, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is well known by experienced Wizards that Earth Elementals are notoriously stupid and slow to act. Before you have a chance to discover what kind of help was sent, the Shadakine have hacked you to pieces.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you ascend the staircase, taking care not to slip on the slimy steps. As you near the surface, you catch your first glimpse of the full moon that shines down on the desolate plain of Taklakot. It is covered with pot-holes and as the night wind blows across them, they sigh and wail like some monstrous creature in pain. <quote>How long has the full moon been shining?</quote> you ask Urik.</p>
- <p><quote>Me know not,</quote> he says, shrugging his shoulders. Once more you push on across the moonlit valley, taking pains to avoid the many fissures and holes that crack the surface. <quote>I feel the Shadow Gate,</quote> says Urik suddenly. <quote>It below the ground.</quote></p>
- <p>At that moment there is a long, baleful cry and a gruesome sight emerges from the shadow of a crevice; a snake-like creature, its body is bone-white and skeletal. <quote>Scree Wyrm,</quote> breathes Hugi, his voice shaking with fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to stand and fight the Scree Wyrm, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to evade it, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You discover a small door at the far end of the hall which opens on to a narrow alley. A loud banging warns you that the wretches are attempting to break down the door of the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to enter the alley, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Magdi crumples and falls lifelessly to the ground but still the Shadakine remain. They each wear a menacing grin, sensing victory. The tall Shadakine captain steps forward. <quote>Surrender yourself, Wizard. You cannot hope to win.</quote> As he speaks, the Chaksu utters a long trilling cry like a forlorn plea for help. The captain laughs scornfully, but his smug, self-satisfied expression changes to one of terrified disbelief as two large Chaksu burst out of the undergrowth, roaring with fury and searching for their lost offspring. The largest of the Chaksu, and mother of the young Chaksu you have protected, reaches out and grabs the Shadakine officer by the neck. With a deathly grip, she lifts him off the ground. His eyes bulge and his face turns <!--ERRTAG-RE-277805-->purple; he<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277805--> is asphyxiated before she hurls him to the ground breaking his body in several places. With a triumphant howl, the Chaksu rush towards the Shadakine, who are running in all directions. Those Shadakine who are too slow of foot are mercilessly broken underfoot; the carnage is terrible to behold.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Two large Chaksu burst out of the undergrowth, roaring with fury in search of their lost offspring</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>When no Shadakine remain, the Chaksu turn and bow low before the mother sweeps her baby into her arms. Although they do not speak, their thanks echo in your mind. They give you a small set of wooden pipes. Should you need help, you have only to blow the pipes and they will come to your aid. Gratefully, you accept the Chaksu Pipes and place this Special Item in a pocket in your robe. (Remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) Then, the Chaksu are gone, trampling the thick foliage as if it were matchwood.</p>
- <p><quote>&thinspace;<quote>Great in might is the power of kindness</quote>,</quote> says Urik, quoting from <cite>The Way of the Shianti.</cite></p>
- <p><quote>&thinspace;<quote>Oft comes help when help is unlooked for</quote>,</quote> you reply, anxious not to be outdone. Urik chuckles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After you have been going down the passage for a few minutes, you notice that Hugi is missing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to walk back along the passage and search for him, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to look for Hugi in the throne room, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to continue without Hugi, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The darkening sky blossoms like a vast purple flower as the sun sets. The chirping of cicadas fills the air and you both decide to stop and rest. Urik gathers up handfuls of berries and offers you a strange new food, a blue fungus that grows beneath the soil. Cautiously you bite into it then smile with surprise, for it is delicious and tastes remarkably like cured meat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>It is called Lianor,</quote> says Urik. <quote>Grows everywhere, yet hard to find. The secret gift of the Earth. Urik sees the secret places below the ground. Is it good?</quote> You nod and hungrily finish the delicious fungi. The Lianor is packed with goodness and you may restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You rest beneath a twisted <!--ERRTAG-RE-280559-->toa tree<!--/ERRTAG-RE-280559--> while Urik stands watch; eventually you drift off into a peaceful sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194"><link-text>Turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A patch of brush and foliage is pulled aside to reveal a concealed entrance. Following Sado, you enter a wide tunnel lit with torches. <quote>This tunnel leads all the way to our secret headquarters beneath the city of Karnali,</quote> he says.</p>
- <p>The tunnel twists and turns for many miles before opening into a large cavern. You and Urik are given food and wine, and while you eat, he tells you of his army&emdash;the Freedom Guild, a rebel band resisting the rule of the Shadakine Empire.</p>
- <p><quote>Karnali was the last city to fall to Shasarak,</quote> Sado explains. <quote>The spirit of unrest was never truly crushed, and so we fight on in our small way, striking blows against the Wytch-king whenever we may. Our attacks are based in the marshes, for we hope to avoid the retribution of the Warward, Kiro against our people by making him believe that we come from outside the city. The Shadakine waste much effort patrolling the marsh, seeking to flush us out, and attention is drawn away from the city. Only our fear that the citizens of Karnali would be punished for our<!--ERRTAG-RE-282018--> actions prevents<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282018--> us from rising up within the city walls. And,</quote> he shrugs, <quote>our numbers are small while the Shadakine maintain a heavy garrison. But what of you?</quote></p>
- <p>A thin man comes and begins to clear away your plates and empty wine goblets. He brushes past you and, to your amazement, attempts to pick your pocket. <!--ERRTAG-RE-282421--><quote>You, man!</quote> <!--/ERRTAG-RE-282421-->shouts <!--ERRTAG-RE-282493-->Sado, <quote>What<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282493--> do you think you're doing? Guards, arrest this man.</quote></p>
- <p>He turns and apologizes to you, explaining that the bulk of his army is recruited from the criminal ranks of the city. You explain your quest and the land that you seek. Sado's eyes widen with astonishment. <quote>Then the legends are true?</quote> he gapes. <quote>The Shianti still exist!</quote></p>
- <p>You nod. <quote>If my quest should finally succeed and I retrieve the Moonstone, the full might of their wisdom and magic will be turned against Shasarak,</quote> you tell him.</p>
- <p><quote>How the people would rejoice to know that a Shianti walked among us once more,</quote> says Sado, <quote>though I understand the need for secrecy. Nevertheless,</quote> he continues, his eyes lighting up, <quote>I would ask a boon of you. Tonight, we attempt our most daring stratagem against the corrupt rule of the Shadakine. Stand with us in battle tonight, aid us if you will. With the might of a Shianti Wizard in our ranks, who knows what we could achieve! Help the Freedom Guild, Grey Star, in our struggle to free the people of Karnali.</quote></p>
- <p>He looks, a searching gaze on his face, with an intensity that almost crackles with energy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you have the Chaksu Pipes, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you do not have the Chaksu Pipes, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Samu engages the first of the guards and you are both surprised at his ability to match Samu's fighting skill, for the guard looks so ill and pale. However, he is a trained soldier and he fights with the preternatural strength of a madman.</p>
- <p>You are distracted from Samu's confrontation as the second guard charges at you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The evening is drawing in. Suddenly, Urik stops and bids you listen. Just off the waterway, you can hear the quiet whimpering of a creature in distress.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to investigate the sound, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you prefer to ignore the sound, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Jaws clamped together with grim determination, you increase the power of your attack. Your nerves scream and your body protests at the concentration of <!--ERRTAG-RE-285655-->life-force<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285655--> that your are transmitting through the incandescence of your <!--ERRTAG-RE-285769-->Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285769-->.</p>
- <p>The Kazim light is faltering to a jaundiced glow in the sky. The Shadakine Wytch is weakening.</p>
- <p><quote>Now I've got you!</quote> you whisper, hoarsely, clinging to your power with every fibre of your being.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the archway and into the main street. Immediately, the gatekeeper rings a cracked bell and hurries down the stairs of his guardroom to charge at you in a raging fury. He wields his broken sword with little skill but he seems possessed of unnatural strength and savagery.</p>
- <p>If you choose to <!--ERRTAG-RE-286603-->fight, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286603--> must fight the Gatekeeper to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gatekeeper</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to avoid the combat <!--ERRTAG-RE-286946-->completely, <link-text>turn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286946--> to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A missile whistles past your shoulder and embeds itself in the throat of the deadly Scree Wyrm. It is a razor-edged boomerang&emdash;Urik's weapon. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-287427-->Scree Wyrm<!--/ERRTAG-RE-287427--> convulses violently, hurling Hugi to the ground close by your feet. The little Kundi man waits patiently for the creature's <!--ERRTAG-RE-287616-->death-throes<!--/ERRTAG-RE-287616--> to cease before daring to retrieve his weapon. With a swift tug, he wrenches it free and kicks the lifeless carcass into the crevice from which it emerged.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature floats towards you across the Belzar River, its tattered robe shimmering with a silvery light. You can see the dim outline of an eyeless face locked in torment.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You send your thoughts racing out to the Elemental plane in a desperate plea for help but the Elementals do not answer your plea, for this is a Deathgaunt, one of the undead raised by the Wytch-king <!--ERRTAG-RE-288431-->Shasarak<!--/ERRTAG-RE-288431-->, and against it the Elemental powers cannot prevail. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon realize that Urik's eccentric, shambling gait is not due to senility, but is one that he has adapted to suit his environment: his bow legs, the rolling rhythm of his stride, and his long tail, enable him to trot along the narrowest of branches with ease. Meanwhile, you are left tottering along, your back bent in a curious balancing act, and your eyes averted from the ground, far below.</p>
- <p>By mid-morning, you have reached the edge of the rain forest of the Azanam and are overlooking the Azagad Gorge. Far below, you can make out the sharp pinnacles of rock known as the <quote>Dragon's Teeth</quote> which cover the canyon floor. It was through this gorge that you came in search of the Azanam, and the lost Kundi tribe. There it was that your friend and guide, Shan Li the merchant, died so terribly, devoured by a poisonous Quoku, the flying amphibians that inhabit the desolate land. Your silent reverie is interrupted by the sound of Urik calling to you from above. <quote>Azagad hold sad memories for Grey Star?</quote> he enquires sympathetically. You nod your head, not thinking to ask how he knew what was on your mind. <quote>No time for sorrow now&ellips; time fly! Catch.</quote> He throws you a length of vine cut from the tree on which he stands. You take up the creeper and look at it in puzzlement. <quote>Make yourself a harness and tie it on&emdash;good and tight,</quote> he orders. You do as he suggests and before you can question his purpose, he produces a carved flute. He places it to his lips and begins to play a strange melody quite unlike any music you have ever heard before.</p>
- <p>The music lasts for some time. Eventually, Urik puts down his pipe and looks expectantly at the sky. <quote>What now?</quote> you ask, a hint of cynicism in your voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Look&ellips; see!</quote> he replies. Far away you can see a tiny speck on the skyline. <quote>Ooslo bird&ellips; love Kundi music.</quote> The dark speck grows larger and soon you are able to make out the awkward, disproportionate shape of an Ooslo bird. Long-necked and small bodied, the bird's great wings flap without rhythm or grace. It is a strange creature.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You make out the awkward shape of an Ooslo bird, a strange creature</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="609"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="609"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As the bird draws nearer, Urik takes up his pipe once more and plays. Eventually, the bird settles on a nearby branch, craning its neck and twisting its head, an expression of rapt fascination in its big, saucer-like eyes. Urik ties the other end of vine into a lasso. He stops playing and, with amazing accuracy, throws the lasso over the Ooslo's head. As the loop of the vine falls and tightens around the bird's neck, it gives a squawk of alarm. Only now does the nature of Urik's plan to <quote>cover many miles in just one <!--ERRTAG-RE-291628-->day</quote> dawn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-291628--> on you.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, you are dragged up into the air by the Ooslo bird. Urik gives an excited whoop of delight, leaping into the air and grabbing at your legs, dangling there as the bird flies higher. <quote>What do we do now?</quote> you shout, swinging wildly in the air, the old Kundi man clinging to your legs and grinning maniacally.</p>
- <p><quote>Ooslo bird fly home now&ellips; back to Gurlu Marshes. Ooslo&emdash;strong flier. Take us far&ellips; and good fun, eh?</quote> The Ooslo bird squawks loudly and Urik hoots back with a howl of wild laughter.</p>
- <p>Despite the discomfort of the vine that chafes under your arms and the dizzying heights of your aerial journey away from the Azanam, you finally admit to yourself that Urik's dangerous and eccentric plan has saved you many miles of walking and perhaps days of wandering. Far below, the landscape rushes by and by late afternoon the scenery has completely changed. Ahead lie the marshy wastes of the Gurlu Swamplands, the nesting place of the Ooslo bird.</p>
- <p>The Ooslo bird begins to fly lower, its voluminous wings flapping erratically as it checks its speed. You are wondering how you are to land safely when Urik shouts up to you. He is pointing ahead. <quote>Big trouble. Hunters,</quote> he says. Sure enough, you can see a party of men armed with crossbows. With horror, you recognize the party to be comprised of Shadakine warriors, soldier slaves of the Wytch-king, Shasarak. It is evident that you have been spotted, as the warriors are running this way and that, shouting and busily priming their weapons. The ground speeds by over twenty feet below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to untie the vine and risk the fall, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you prefer to attack the party of hunters with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you possess the Power of Sorcery and prefer to create a magical shield about yourself, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you are able to fire your <!--ERRTAG-RE-293978-->Wizard's Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293978-->, you must drop your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>. Taking careful aim, you hurl the might of your Staff at the Eijalfish. Immediately, a sheet of flame blankets the water of the lake, throwing the charred body of the Eijalfish into the air atop a great waterspout. Radiant droplets of fire and water are flung in all directions across the boiling lake. The use of your Staff has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Time to go?</quote> asks Urik.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to swim away, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you prefer to recall your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell>, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the sight of your Wizard's Staff and in the light of the damage it has inflicted on their fellows the wildmen rise up in fear and make a run for the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to stop them from leaving by attacking them, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you wish to conserve your energy and let them go, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wretches break down the door. Many fall dead before they are able to reach <!--ERRTAG-RE-295511-->you; however<!--/ERRTAG-RE-295511-->, the overwhelming press of numbers is too much, even for the might of the Wizard's Staff. You are taken prisoner and kept in a dark room for many days before you are killed by the wretches of the Forbidden City.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Fire!</quote> you shout in the language of the Elementals. Suddenly the lake erupts into one gigantic fireball that engulfs both you and Urik in searing flame.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Your life and your mission have come to a fatal end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect262-1-foot" idref="sect262-1"><p>As you are using your Wizard's Staff against the Scree Wyrm, you should deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staff raised above your head, you wait for your chance to strike. Samu's defence against the Scree Wyrm is a dizzying blur of sword strokes. The Wyrm's attack weakens and, as it does, you strike out with the might of your Staff. A bolt of power shudders through the fearful creature as its body tenses before flopping lifelessly to the ground.<a id="sect262-1" idref="sect262-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Disdainfully, Samu gives the carcass a kick and the creature disappears through one of the pot-holes that litter the desolate plain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You begin to call up your <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> as before. Then suddenly you realize the reason for the movement amongst the Shadakine. The realization comes too late: a crossbow bolt thuds into your back, fired by a soldier who has crept behind you. With a shout of pain you fall, face forwards, into the water of the lake.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You point the Rod at the Kleasá and its yellow beam of light strikes its body. You watch as the light is absorbed by the darkness of the creature; the Black Rod begins to feel warm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you wish to stop your attack, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you wish to continue with your attack, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are alerted by the cries of your companions. The Deathgaunt has returned! It ignores the efforts of the company to block its advance and speeds towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you have the Magical Power of Evocation, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you do not have this Power, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your Magical Power of Sorcery, you are able to free the giant's mind of the control that the slavemaster has over him. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you extinguish the light of the jewel around his neck. It is a Mind Gem and, with the fading of its power, the giant returns to true consciousness. As he does, he turns and deals the slavemaster a killing blow. In turn, you raise your Staff and shear through the master link that holds the other slaves in chains. With a cheer, they break away from the battle.</p>
- <p>If you wish to take the Mind Gem from the slavemaster's dead body, mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. <!--ERRTAG-RE-302634-->The Mind Gem is worn around your neck.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-302634--> The giant offers you his thanks before turning to charge into the battle. You follow close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the steeply sloping passage. An hour passes and Urik begins to sniff the air. <quote>Shadow Gate drawing <!--ERRTAG-RE-299968-->near,</quote> he<!--/ERRTAG-RE-299968--> says. You increase your pace to match the quickening beat of your heart. At last, the passage opens on to a small, circular cavern: exits lead north, east and west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to take the passage leading north, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to take the passage leading west, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to take the passage leading east, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you possess the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to conserve your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> in case you are required to face greater perils in the future. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number <!--ERRTAG-RE-301021-->Table</a>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301021--></p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If the number you have picked is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see the dim outline of an <!--ERRTAG-RE-301504-->eyeless, tormented<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301504--> face. The shimmering, silvery creature is a Deathgaunt, an undead spirit freed by Shasarak, the Wytch-king, to roam the world of the living.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You attempt to cast the illusion of a warrior moving to attack it but the Deathgaunt is not fooled. It passes through the illusion and dispels it. The use of this <!--ERRTAG-RE-301884-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301884--> has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He throws open the door and you slip inside. Panting, Urik slams the door shut behind him. Within moments it seems that the whole of the mad court of the king is hammering on the door. You survey the interior of the room with dismay for there is no other exit. Samu is trying to keep the baying crowd from forcing the door but even his great strength cannot hold it shut for long.</p>
- <p><quote>There must be another way out,</quote> says Hugi, calmly, as if he has all the time in the world. He begins to run his hands along the walls of the small room, knocking with his knuckle against the smooth stone. Then he hears a hollow tone. <quote>Here!</quote> he exclaims.</p>
- <p>A wooden panel falls away in Hugi's hand to reveal the latch of a hidden door. It is locked but Hugi produces a wallet full of small knives and pieces of wire and selects a length of fine copper with which to pick the lock. <quote>Hurry!</quote> says Samu. <quote>This door will not hold.</quote></p>
- <p>Skilfully, Hugi opens the door to reveal a passage leading downwards. You run down into its darkness, little knowing what lies ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner have you slain the Magdi than the second hound comes charging towards you. Without hesitation, you turn and run, the Magdi in hot pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>There!</quote> says Urik, pointing. Beneath the opalescent light you see a great pool of darkness.</p>
- <p><quote>Where?</quote> you <!--ERRTAG-RE-304096-->say. <quote>I<!--/ERRTAG-RE-304096--> see only a dark&ellips;</quote> You stop abruptly in the middle of your sentence as a vast, looming shadow ripples and takes shape. Standing guard over the site of the Shadow Gate is a creature of shadow. A Kleasá, sent by Shasarak to thwart your final attempt to step through the door and into the Daziarn plane. These servants of evil feed on the energy of human souls, draining their being like a vampire drinking of life's blood.</p>
- <p>Cowering within the black light of the Kleasá, you see Tanith&emdash;tormented prisoner of Shasarak and victim of the Kleasá.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to fire a blast from your Staff at the creature, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and the Mind Gem and wish to use them both against the Kleasá, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229"><!--ERRTAG-RE-330115-->If you wish to use the Black Rod<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330115-->, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The slithering Scree Wyrm snakes towards you, the bones of its opaque body clacking as they pass through the cinders and dust of the valley. You raise your Wizard's Staff and prepare for combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Scree Wyrm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you win the combat in 3 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If the fight lasts for 4 rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking careful aim, you hurl the might of your Wizard's Staff at the Eijalfish. A sheet of flame blankets the water of the lake, throwing the charred body of the Eijalfish high into the air atop a great waterspout. Radiant droplets of fire and water are flung in all directions across the boiling lake. The distant cries of the Shadakine warn you that they have seen the conflagration and now know your position. The use of your Staff has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to use this chance to swim away, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to wait and do battle with the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following day, you, Urik and the fighters of the Freedom Guild are ensconced in the tall grass at the edge of the marsh. In the distance gleams the city of Karnali overlooking the Suhni and Belzar Rivers. Along the Great Suhn Road that leads east away from Karnali, you see a long line of men, women and children: slaves of the Shadakine. Warriors walk up and down the line, brandishing flails with needless ferocity. Suddenly, the charge is sounded and a wave of men pours out of the brush and runs towards the column of slaves.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Suddenly, the charge is sounded and the fighters of the Freedom Guild fall upon the slave train</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="626"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="626"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The Shadakine <!--ERRTAG-RE-307675-->guards fall<!--/ERRTAG-RE-307675--> into defensive positions along the road, but the stealth of the ambush outmanoeuvres them and they have no time to deploy effectively. <quote>Shall we?</quote> you ask Urik. He grins broadly and gives vent to a bellowing yell before shambling out of the brush towards the fray as fast as his old bones will allow. You follow behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144"><link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The battle is nearly won. Able to avoid killing the slaves, the veiled soldiers overwhelm the Shadakine slave guards. As the last cries of battle fade away, the few surviving Shadakine attempt to flee: to a man they are cut down without mercy.</p>
- <p>One of the masked attackers approaches you. <!--ERRTAG-RE-308601--><quote>Stranger,</quote> he<!--/ERRTAG-RE-308601--> says, <quote>our leader, Sado of the Long Knife, wishes to speak to you.</quote> You follow the soldier and arrive before Sado of the Long Knife. He has put aside his veil to reveal a lean, haggard face and eyes of piercing blue.</p>
- <p><quote>My thanks,</quote> says Sado with a polite bow. <quote>Your timely arrival was most welcome. We return now to the marshes; the attack will not have gone unnoticed and we must move swiftly to avoid the retribution of the Shadakine of Karnali. Will you accompany us?</quote></p>
- <p>You and Urik walk beside Sado as his small army of a hundred men move into the cover of the marshes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The abruptness of Samu's fail drags you forward with a jolt. At the same time the Rope is pulled from Hugi and Urik's grasp.</p>
- <p>The Rope is still tied around your waist but; already weakened by the rigours of your adventure, you lack the strength to hold Samu's bulk and you too are dragged into the fast running waters of the Belzar River. The current and the poisonous black waters swiftly overwhelm you.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shape the force of your will, building a shimmering <spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell> around yourself at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This will only serve as protection for yourself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you wish to expend further <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and extend your Shield to protect Urik, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish also to include the Ooslo bird behind your Shield, at a still greater cost of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to conserve your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on the energy of the Astral plane and focus it upon the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your attempt to open the door, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to use 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your attempt, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to use 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your attempt, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a tremendous effort, you endure the rigours of the mental duel for over an hour but eventually you succumb to the power of the stone. You sink into a dark well of insanity. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-311936-->Kazim Stone<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311936--> breaks your spirit and your will to live and finally the tiny conscious part of your being still remaining lets go and your heart forgets to beat.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate your mind on the events of the near future at a cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. If you do not accept the king's offer, he will have you killed. Your vision extends no further than this.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108"><link-text>Turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Special Item that you hold in your hand is a Mind Gem. The magical jewel holds the mind of the giant under its malign control. With a small exertion of your will, you snuff out the Mind Gem's light. Awareness floods back into the giant's mind as he recovers control of his own mind. <quote>My thanks,</quote> he bellows. If you wish to keep the Mind Gem, you may wear it round your neck.</p>
- <p>You raise your Staff and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point; use it to shear through the master link that holds the Shadakine slaves in chains. They give a cheer and break away from the battle in great numbers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run, plunging into the cover of the dense undergrowth. With a gasp of pain, you suddenly pitch forward, landing face downwards in the muck of the swamp with a crossbow bolt protruding from your shoulder. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. With a groan, you attempt to rise to your feet but Urik urges you to remain where you are. The shouts and movements of the Shadakine tell you that they are very close.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to get to your feet and continue with your escape, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to follow Urik's advice, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You descend the stairway with as much dignity as you can muster. The dancers continue as if your appearance were the most natural thing in the world. The old man gets to his feet and waves a regal hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome friends. Welcome!</quote> he says. <quote>Your arrival is most timely. The banquet is about to begin. Pray tell me your names.</quote> His mad, red-rimmed eyes glint dangerously.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to continue with your bluff, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to make a run for it, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A great gust of wind blows down the shaft towards the flame but the fire does not flicker. Suddenly, you realize that the wall of fire is an illusion. The use of this Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beads of perspiration form on your forehead and your whole body trembles with the strain of sustaining your attack. Your senses whirl and you feel as if you are going to black out. <quote>Now!</quote> you shout to <!--ERRTAG-RE-315948-->Sado. <quote>Charge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-315948--> your men&ellips; now!</quote> you repeat through clenched teeth.</p>
- <p>Instantly, Sado gives the command and his small heroic army charges forward with blood-curdling cries. The light above the Shadakine warriors is abruptly snuffed out and the Shadakine quail with fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is 12 or higher, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is 11 or lower, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect287-1-foot" idref="sect287-1"><p>You may be forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Sado, I am sorry but I must refuse. My quest demands it.</quote></p>
- <p>A look of fury passes momentarily over Sado's face. <quote>Very well,</quote> he answers sadly. <quote>Then I will ensure your safe conduct from the city to aid you on your quest.</quote></p>
- <p>A small escort of soldiers in disguise leads you and Urik through the city streets. Suddenly, you notice that you are passing the stone fortress of the Shadakine&emdash;you have been duped by Sado, he has gone ahead with his plan. A huge mob of Karnalese civilians armed with sticks and stones charges towards the fortress, and you are trapped between the enraged mob and the Shadakine who are leaving the fortress to <!--ERRTAG-RE-317448-->counterattack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-317448-->. Urik curses as you turn to face the Shadakine.<a id="sect287-1" idref="sect287-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you have the Chaksu Pipes and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you have the Power of Enchantment and wish to conceal your appearance, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to release a long-range attack at the advancing Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the force of your will against the door. The rock trembles and a crackle of energy snakes across its surface, but to no avail. The door is held by a force far greater than your own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224"><!--ERRTAG-AD-345164-->If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-345164--></choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you do not possess this skill, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beset by perils and magic, the Shadakine line breaks in fear and confusion. Sado of the Long Knife gives the command and his brave army surges forward with a victorious cry to storm the fortress. The use of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-328049-->Power of Enchantment<!--/ERRTAG-RE-328049--> has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate hard, sending your thought to the Elemental plane of existence. <!--ERRTAG-RE-319453-->Humanoid<!--/ERRTAG-RE-319453--> representatives of the four Elements of Earth, Air, Wind and Water appear before you and you must choose which one you wish to aid you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you choose Air, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you choose Fire, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you choose Earth, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you choose Water, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is dawn and you are sweating with a fever (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>You wake your companions and begin your journey without delay, your heart still quaking with fear. Your leaden feet carry you through the fields of dust and the grim monotony of the landscape dampens your spirits. Your companions eye you with concern. When you stumble and fall with weariness, they lift you to your feet and you are comforted a little.</p>
- <p>Suddenly Hugi gives a cry of alarm and you spin round. You gasp with fear as you see three Deathgaunts drifting after you, their arms outstretched in a sinister greeting, as if you were already one of their kind. You hear their evil voices whispering insidiously in your mind. <quote>Go no further&emdash;only doom awaits you,</quote> they chant.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-321049-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321049--> of Evocation and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you prefer to continue, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the power of the Astral plane to the Jewel and it begins to glow. However, as you try to impose your will upon the Shadakine, you realize that the Mind Gem's power can only be brought to bear on one mind at a time. You have used 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point in your attempt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you wish to attempt to control the mind of the user of the Kazim Stone, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it against the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to challenge the power of the Kazim Stone with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out to the Elemental plane and ask for the help of the Elementals. Representatives of the four Elements appear before you and you must choose which one you wish to help you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to be aided by the Element of Air, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to be aided by the Element of Earth, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to be aided by the Element of Water, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to be aided by the Element of Fire, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your heart pounding you scamper across the bridge; a slight tremor runs through the stone. <quote>I think its starting to go!</quote> you shout across to Samu.</p>
- <p>Gingerly, he starts to cross but as he reaches the middle of the bridge, the stone cracks and, abruptly, Samu disappears from view. You rush to the edge of the collapsing bridge and look down into the water. Briefly, you see a pair of flailing arms as Samu struggles valiantly against the fast current; and then he is gone. The bridge continues to crumble but; unheeding, you stare at the black water, your eyes blurred with tears.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star!</quote> Urik shouts. <quote>Come away&ellips; the bridge!</quote> Heedless of its fragile state, you walk slowly from the bridge, too numb to speak. Without looking back, the three of you walk towards the gate of the Forbidden City in silence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the creature draws nearer, hurriedly you scratch a pentacle into the dusty ground with the tip of your Staff. The shining being is a Deathgaunt, an undead spirit raised by Shasarak to roam the realm of the living. As you begin to chant the warding words of Evocation, the creature hesitates, then stops, hanging as if suspended just above the ground. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72"><link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The elegance of the mime is interrupted by the clatter of your feet and shout of the king, who stares at you, furiously. <quote>Stop them!</quote> he cries.</p>
- <p>The mad guardsmen of the insane king's court charge you, with a mass of raving courtiers at their back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking a deep breath, you plunge into the water. Urik follows directly after. Hampered by your Staff and Backpack you make slow progress and soon your lungs feel ready to burst but you cannot surface for air. You must discard your Backpack to avoid drowning. (Remember to cross this item and all its contents from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Freed of the encumbrance of your Backpack, you kick out and soon reach the edge of the lake. You break the surface, gulping at the air as you scramble away from the flame. As you cross from the water to the land, you suffer mild burns on the exposed flesh of your hands (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p>Injured and exhausted, you throw yourself into the haven of tall marsh grass. Urik staggers to your side, water cascading from his sodden clothes. You lie still for a while to regain your breath, then suddenly a chilling howl freezes your blood. Urik cocks his head to one side, then wearily clambers to his feet. <quote>They have hunting dogs,</quote> he says, urgently. <quote>One&ellips; maybe two terrible Magdi Hounds.</quote> He points to a shallow waterway that disappears through the tall grass like a trail. <quote>We move now&emdash;slow and silent. Keep to water. Hide scent. Come.</quote></p>
- <p>You both creep away, stepping tentatively along the channel between the reeds as a knot of fear rises in your stomach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a sleep that gives you no rest. Through a dark haze, the ghastly figure of Shasarak appears. <quote>And still you persist&emdash;fool!</quote> he spits. <quote>I see that my friends were unable to make you see the error of your ways,</quote> he says, scornfully. <quote>Perhaps this will better persuade you.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Through a dark haze the ghastly figure of Shasarak appears</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="648"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="648"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With a gesture of his ruined hand, he shows you the vision of a young girl, sobbing, surrounded by a pool of darkness. With a dull ache in your heart you recognize the girl. It is Tanith, the Wytch girl who helped you escape from a Shadakine prison in the Port of Suhn and finally leapt to her death to save you. Now, trapped upon another plane, she weeps alone, her eyes wild with fear. <quote>Tanith!</quote> you call into the void of your dream.</p>
- <p>Shasarak laughs, savagely. <quote>She cannot hear you, Wizard. No one can hear her now. She is mine to torment as and when I wish. And my imagination knows no limit in the matter of torment&emdash;in that field I rule supreme.</quote> The Wytch-king begins to laugh with malicious glee, relishing Tanith's plight and your misery at witnessing it. <quote>Turn aside, Grey Star, or she is lost.</quote> With the howl of Shasarak's mocking laughter ringing in your ears, you wake with a start. You have lost 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point during the night.</p>
- <p>In the grey light of dawn you trudge towards the Forbidden City, your companions walking silently by your side. Soon, you are able to see the outline of the city in the distance. A few more hours and you will be standing before its gates. There is only one solution to the sinking of your heart and the mounting ache that racks your mind: you must complete your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52"><link-text>Turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect299-1-foot" idref="sect299-1"><p>If you use a leaf from a Bundle of dried Azawood Leaves, the Bundle now has three leaves left.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out one of the huge leaves and unfold it. Before going to sleep, you soak the leaf in the river and place it on the dying embers of the fire. The smoke of the Azawood leaf should, hopefully, prevent the Deathgaunt from approaching. <!--ERRTAG-RE-336135-->You have used one Azawood leaf.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-336135--> Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.<a id="sect299-1" idref="sect299-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>The pungent aroma of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-329493-->Azawood leaf<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329493--> fills you nostrils as you sink into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the throne room once more and see Hugi, scratching around in the dark, searching the chamber and examining the walls. He turns with a startled look and regards you with a guilty expression.</p>
- <p><quote>Still looking for treasure?</quote> you say.</p>
- <p>He smiles nervously and shrugs. <quote>I thought there might be another way out of here,</quote> he says.</p>
- <p><quote>Thief is good liar,</quote> says Urik, nodding to himself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You burst into the crumbling house and Hugi slams the door shut. The room is full of cobwebs and shadows. As your eyes adjust to the light, you see a huddle of ragged people gnawing on a large bone. They look at you with starving eyes and the largest gets up and charges at you with an animal yell.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wildman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the dark passage and enter the throne room once more. Hugi is there, searching the chamber and testing the walls by knocking them. He turns with a startled expression and looks at you, guiltily.</p>
- <p><quote>Still looking for treasure?</quote> you say. He smiles nervously and shrugs.</p>
- <p><quote>I thought there might be another way out of the palace,</quote> he says.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the line of Shadakine warriors charge towards you, one of them, a burly spearman, charges straight at you with a blood-curdling scream. You raise your <!--ERRTAG-RE-331963-->Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RE-331963--> and attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159"><link-text>Turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn to Samu. <quote>Guard this entrance,</quote> you say to him, <quote>I'm going down.</quote> Gingerly, you lower yourself into a hole and begin to clamber down. Halfway down the pot-hole, you slip and fall to the bottom, slightly injuring your leg, though you are still able to walk on it. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Urik follows you down. After a life spent among the tree tops, he has no difficulty with the climb. You are both standing in the midst of a honeycombed labyrinth of stone. The light of the full moon streams through the holes in the surface of the plain and the maze is bright with translucent light.</p>
- <p>Urik sniffs the air and points. <quote>Follow me.</quote> With tension mounting in your heart, you prepare to meet your goal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Special Item that you hold in your hand is a Mind Gem. As the light of the jewel fades, Samu, the giant slave, shakes his head and then looks at you, a spark of intelligence in his eyes as he recovers the control of his mind.</p>
- <p><quote>My thanks,</quote> he says with a bow.</p>
- <p>With one mighty blow, Samu shatters the master link that holds the Shadakine slaves in chains. They give a cheer and break away from the battle.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep the Mind Gem, you may wear it around your neck<!--ERRTAG-DE-336950/-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">Now <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the banqueting room and walk down the passage to enter the throne room once more. Hugi is there, searching and scratching around the dark chamber. As you walk into the room he turns with a startled expression on his face. <quote>Ah, there you are!</quote> he says guiltily, with a nervous laugh.</p>
- <p><quote>Still looking for treasure eh, thief?</quote> says Samu with a grim look.</p>
- <p>Hugi shrugs sheepishly by way of apology.</p>
- <p><quote>I thought there might be another way out of here,</quote> he says.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cause the tip of your <!--ERRTAG-RA-334885-->Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RA-334885--> to emit a dim glow that illuminates the interior of your prison. You are in a large, low-ceilinged chamber, littered with shards of fallen masonry. Urik and Hugi lie in a far corner. They both remain silent. What use are words now? (The cost of creating a light from your <!--ERRTAG-RA-334885-->Staff<!--/ERRTAG-RA-334885--> has been 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.)</p>
- <p>You curse your bad luck. You are sure that some wizardry is required to free you from this prison, but you are weak and still have to reach Desolation Valley. It is sure to hold other dangers for you. You are suddenly distracted from this moody introspection by the sound of shouting voices, and the noise of a struggle coming from above. Suddenly, the door of the chamber is thrown open. Looking down on you is the figure of Samu, smiling broadly, sword in hand. <quote>How?</quote> you cry in disbelief.</p>
- <p><quote>The river carried me downstream before I was able to resist its current,</quote> says <!--ERRTAG-RE-335965-->Samu. <quote>I've<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335965--> been looking for you everywhere. Luckily for you, I was nearby when the wretches of this city caught you. I saw them bring you to this crypt. Wait a moment.</quote> Swiftly, he turns and slashes at a wretch who is trying to drag him away from the door. He swats his assailant like a fly then turns to face you once more. <quote>Come, we must hurry.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Samu turns and slashes at the wretches who try to drag him from the door</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>He pulls each of you out in turn, and stops to deliver a kick at two wretches blocking a doorway that leads from the crypt. <quote>This way,</quote> he says, indicating a narrow passage that leads upwards. <quote>These creatures seem reluctant to travel this passage. They will not follow, I think.</quote></p>
- <p>You run down the passage as fast as you can with Samu protecting the rear. At the end of the passage is a heavy door. Urik swings it open and you all dash through.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Wretches falls to the ground, you hear the angry roar of a mob that has formed outside. Desperately, you look around the room and try to find another exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call out to the Element of Earth in the strange language of the Elemental plane. As the fire around you burns brighter, the exposed flesh on your face and hands suffers minor burns; lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Then, looming like a giant shadow in the fire, the huge form of an Earth Demon storms towards you. It is impervious to the flames and quickly it reaches towards you with huge, gnarled hands, sweeping you both up into a protective embrace. You can smell the damp scent of freshly turned soil as it holds you close. <quote>Where?</quote> it asks impassively.</p>
- <p>Earth <!--ERRTAG-RE-338105-->Elementals<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338105--> are noted for their stupidity but when you point to the far edge of the bank, it begins to stride forward deliberately. Its vast bulk shields you from the burning lake and it sets you down safely among the chest-high marsh grass. Wordlessly, it turns away, slowly melting back into the ground until it is gone.</p>
- <p>A shallow waterway leads out of the marsh grass, cuffing through it like a path. Suddenly, a terrible sound rends the air, a howling that holds your spine in an icy grip. The Shadakine have hunting dogs&emdash;the ferocious Magdi Hounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Despite the soullessness of the being, the Kleasá emits a great howling yell of triumph and expands like a great black cloud of terror. With the Black Rod in its possession it is freed from the mastery of Shasarak&emdash;free to roam the universe at will.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Kleasá emits a great howling yell of triumph</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As the Kleasá soars up into the air, its shape extended like a great bat's wing, the Shadow Gate truly appears before you: a great, grey arch, a window to other worlds filled with formless mists and nightmare glimpses. Tanith stands before you on the other side of the threshold and, without hesitation, you step through.</p>
- <p>Your further journeys in the Daziarn plane will be chronicled in book three of the Grey Star <!--ERRTAG-RE-339666-->series, entitled<!--/ERRTAG-RE-339666--></p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.03btng;">Beyond the Nightmare Gate</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Shadakine Empire</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acpowers.gif" width="386" height="143" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="achrbpch.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Calculate your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> based on the weapon that you are using.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>If using your Wizard's Staff, note the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to expend.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn <!--ERRTAG-RE-342430-->to the <a idref="crtable">Combat<!--/ERRTAG-RE-342430--> Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and <!--ERRTAG-RE-342582-->cross-reference<!--/ERRTAG-RE-342582--> to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. GS indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Grey Star.)</li>
- <li>Multiply the enemy's lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used.</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Grey Star loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-6558-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>THE FORBIDDEN CITY</quote> with <quote><strong>The Forbidden City</strong></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6558-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-6876-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kleasa</quote> with <quote>Kleasá</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6876-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-6952-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical powers</quote> with <quote>Magical Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6952-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-7203-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>THE WORLD OF LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote><cite>The World of Lone Wolf</cite></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-7203-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="coming">Of the Coming of Grey Star</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-7887-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wizadry</quote> with <quote>wizardry</quote>. This was fixed in later editions of the book.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-7887-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>)<!--ERRTAG-AD-21154-ITEM--> Added <quote>,</quote> at the end of the first line of the riddle.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-21154-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-21566-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>section 1</quote> with <quote>Section 1</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-21566-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>at the front of this book. If you run out of space, you can copy out the chart or have it photocopied</quote> and <quote>on the last page of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>adventure and</quote> with <quote>adventure, and</quote> and all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-22045-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>GREY STAR THE WIZARD</quote> with <quote><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-22045-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-22355-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>magical power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-22355-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote> and <quote>quarterstaff yet</quote> with <quote>quarterstaff, yet</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-29662-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>alchemy</quote> with <quote>Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-29662-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-302781-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>prophecy</quote> with <quote>Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-302781-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-23432-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>lesser magicks</quote> with <quote>Lesser Magicks</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23432-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-24762-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>five powers</quote> with <quote>five Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-24762-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-25836-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power</quote> with <quote>Power</quote>, except in the description of the Wizard's Staff.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-25836-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>, <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote>, <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote> within the Herb Pouch contents list, <quote>notes but</quote> with <quote>notes, but</quote>, <quote>Shakadine</quote> with <quote>Shadakine</quote> and <quote>Shianti and</quote> with <quote>Shianti, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sage">Sage Advice</a>) Removed <quote> at the front of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>&lsquot; Stand back!</quote> with <quote>&lsquot;Stand back!</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-45701-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rain-water</quote> with <quote>rainwater</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-45701-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-51012-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ahead, You</quote> with <quote>ahead. You</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-51012-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-63316-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>quagmire, it</quote> with <quote>quagmire; it</quote> in the caption of the illustration.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-63316-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-54835-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>special Item</quote> with <quote>Special Item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-54835-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-55869-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>elementals</quote> with <quote>Elementals</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55869-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-56160-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>elemental</quote> with <quote>Elemental</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-56160-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-59625-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59625-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-62229-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>presence. hovering</quote> with <quote>presence, hovering</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-62229-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-67004-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>less than 4 rounds</quote> with <quote>4 rounds or less</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-67004-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-69071-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>says. &lsquot;but</quote> with <quote>says, &lsquot;but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-69071-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-73840-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>staff's</quote> with <quote>Staff's</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-73840-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-78706-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>lake and immediately, the</quote> with <quote>lake, and immediately the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78706-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>)<!--ERRTAG-AD-93287-ITEM--> Added <quote> with an opening that overlooks a large gorge</quote> and added an extra paragraph break before the last sentence of the first paragraph, in order to make text make sense.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-93287-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-82974-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>consumate</quote> with <quote>consummate</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-82974-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-83228-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>appearance, Suddenly</quote> with <quote>appearance. Suddenly</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-83228-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-85433-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>hole on</quote> with <quote>hole in</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85433-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-91671-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-91671-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-87880-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-87880-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-90470-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Guild it</quote> with <quote>Guild, it</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-90470-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-91716-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fortress but</quote> with <quote>fortress, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-91716-ITEM--> Switched the section numbers given for the two choices, to avoid unreasonable consequences of high <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-98843-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>8 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></quote> with <quote>8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote>. Since there is a question of whether you have survived this section or not, and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> loss cannot kill you, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> was likely what was intended.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98843-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-98892-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>points but</quote> with <quote>points, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98892-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-99025-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>warriors the</quote> with <quote>warriors, the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-99025-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-100437-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>tremble.Great</quote> with <quote>tremble. Great</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100437-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>)<!--ERRTAG-AD-101960-ITEM--> Added <quote> and wish to use it</quote> to the last choice, as there is no reason why it should be mandatory to use an Azawood leaf.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-101960-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-102536-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>purpose?</quote> with <quote>purpose!</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102536-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-107695-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cry &lsquot;Samu!&rsquot;</quote> with <quote>cry: &lsquot;Samu!&rsquot;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107695-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-112234-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>continue you</quote> with <quote>continue, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-112234-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-115985-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Wizard's staff</quote> with <quote>Wizard's Staff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115985-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Black Mountains of Morn</quote> with <quote>black Mountains of Morn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-120711-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>of table</quote> with <quote>of the table</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120711-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect78">78</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-122318-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>below but</quote> with <quote>below, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-122318-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-126444-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>immobile as</quote> with <quote>immobile, as</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126444-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-129225-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>counter-charge</quote> with <quote>countercharge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-129225-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-131291-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fire but</quote> with <quote>fire, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131291-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-131411-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>a cinder</quote> with <quote>cinders</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131411-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-132032-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>city fortress</quote> with <quote>city-fortress</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-132032-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-135188-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>and as</quote> with <quote>and, as</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135188-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-135747-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>under water</quote> with <quote>underwater</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135747-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-136036-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>robe you</quote> with <quote>robe, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136036-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-139751-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sadly you</quote> with <quote>Sadly, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-139751-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>)<!--ERRTAG-AD-156493-ITEM--> Added <quote>If you possess insufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to use any of these powers, turn to 242.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-156493-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-144870-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>king.&lsquot;Either</quote> with <quote>king. &lsquot;Either</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-144870-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-151394-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you wish to attack the Kleasá with the Magical Power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and with to use it to attack the Kleasá</quote> in the first choice.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-151394-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-AD-151599-ITEM--> Added <quote> and wish to use them both against the Kleasá,</quote> in the second choice.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-151599-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-166812-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you have the Black Rod of Shasarak and wish to use it</quote> with <quote>If you wish to use the Black Rod of Shasarak</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-166812-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-154138-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>combat <!--link-text-->turn</quote> with <quote>combat, <!--link-text-->turn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-154138-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-157695-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half light</quote> with <quote>half-light</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-157695-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-174101-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you have the Black Rod of Shasarak and wish to use it</quote> with <quote>If you wish to use the Black Rod of Shasarak</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-174101-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-159939-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>forward, you</quote> with <quote>forward. You</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-159939-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-162466-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Urik &lsquot;Very</quote> with <quote>Urik. &lsquot;Very</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-162466-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-171243-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-171243-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-166547-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sleep but</quote> with <quote>sleep, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-166547-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-174497-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-174497-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-168225-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>however it</quote> with <quote>however, it</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168225-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Replaced <quote>farewill</quote> with <quote>farewell</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-169533-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>BIG</quote> with <quote><em>Big</em></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-169533-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-170018-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the deadlands</quote> with <quote>&ldquot;the dead lands&rdquot;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-170018-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-170204-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>all and</quote> with <quote>all, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-170204-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-172550-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A Short Sword</quote> with <quote>Short Sword</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172550-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-172651-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A Backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172651-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-172736-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>2 potions of Laumspur </quote> with <quote>2 Potions of Laumspur </quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172736-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-172803-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>swallowing 1 potion</quote> with <quote>swallowing one potion</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172803-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-172942-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A coil of Rope</quote> with <quote>Coil of Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172942-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-179317-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-179317-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-174093-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>exhausted you</quote> with <quote>exhausted, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-174093-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>asks</quote> with <quote>asks.</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-180230-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>out-sized</quote> with <quote>outsized</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-180230-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>) Switched the section numbers given for the two choices, to avoid unreasonable consequences of high <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-200965-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you have the Black Rod of Shasarak and wish to use it</quote> with <quote>If you wish to use the Black Rod of Shasarak</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200965-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-202815-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>spell whispering</quote> with <quote>spell, whispering</quote>in the caption for the illustration.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-202815-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-186211-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>7&endash;12</quote> with <quote>6&endash;12</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186211-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-189306-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kiro will</quote> with <quote>Kiro, will</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189306-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-190011-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>eyebow</quote> with <quote>eyebrow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-190011-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-193971-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>and as</quote> with <quote>and, as</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-193971-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Made the choice leading to <a idref="sect27">Section 27</a> its own paragraph to better fit our format for the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-203800-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>swordman</quote> with <quote>swordsman</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203800-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-214623-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-214623-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-208862-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical Power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-208862-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-229487-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> that lies within the chest</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-229487-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-229727-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you wish to take the Black Rod and use it to open the magic-locked door</quote> with <quote>If you wish to use the Black Rod to open the magic-locked door</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229727-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-211489-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>your Current</quote> with <quote>your current</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-211489-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect173">173</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-212763-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-212763-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-220402-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>one Item</quote> with <quote>one item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-220402-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-213699-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magical power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-213699-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>)<!--ERRTAG-AD-217680-ITEM--> Added <quote>possess the Magical Power of Sorcery, and </quote> in the second choice.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-217680-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Changed the choice which led to <a idref="sect300">Section 300</a> to lead to <a idref="sect302">Section 302</a> instead. This section was unreachable in the original and fits well in the context of the story here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-221532-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>out-run</quote> with <quote>outrun</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-221532-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-222293-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>closely, After</quote> with <quote>closely. After</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-222293-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>right? he</quote> with <quote>right?&rsquot; he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-228226-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Shield of sorcery</quote> with <quote>Shield of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-228226-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-229924-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>guagmire</quote> with <quote>quagmire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229924-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-231868-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>giant. <!--link-text-->turn</quote> with <quote>giant, <!--link-text-->turn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-231868-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-241339-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical Item</quote> with <quote>magical item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-241339-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-244150-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-244150-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-241378-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-241378-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-245937-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Masbalé</quote> with <quote>Masbaté</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-245937-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-246059-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Lisson</quote> with <quote>Lissan</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246059-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-247640-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>luneday</quote> with <quote>Luneday</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-247640-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-248793-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>menacingly as</quote> with <quote>menacingly, as</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-248793-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced <quote>mountains of Morn</quote> with <quote>Mountains of Morn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) Changed the choice to use Psychomancy to lead to <a idref="sect170">Section 170</a> rather than <a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>. <!--ERRTAG-AD-272010-ITEM--> Added <quote>If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, turn to 224.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-272010-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-272227-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you do not possess this skill</quote> with <quote>If you do not possess either of these skills, or do not wish to use them</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272227-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-251729-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>six</quote> with <quote>eight</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251729-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-251871-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>257<!--/link-text--></quote> with <quote>257<!--/link-text-->.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251871-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-259336-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-259336-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-252419-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the dead lands</quote> with <quote>&lsquot;the dead lands&rsquot;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-252419-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-253812-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>12 to 14</quote> with <quote>12&endash;14</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253812-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-255831-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>high pitched</quote> with <quote>high-pitched</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-255831-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-258284-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Toa-tree</quote> with <quote>toa tree</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258284-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-260256-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Then suddenly a</quote> with <quote>Then, suddenly, a</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-260256-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-260509-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you broad</quote> with <quote>you a broad</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-260509-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-271671-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>your power</quote> with <quote>your Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-271671-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-269658-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>side step</quote> with <quote>sidestep</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269658-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Changed the third choice which led to <a idref="sect289">Section 289</a> to lead to <a idref="sect146">Section 146</a> instead. This section fits better in the context of the story as it goes into particulars about how Enchantment is actually used.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-267769-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Waist deep</quote> with <quote>Waist-deep</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-267769-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-268916-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>out-sized</quote> with <quote>outsized</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-268916-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-269838-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wizard's Staff</quote> with <quote>Wizard's Staff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269838-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect237">237</a>) Changed the choice to use Psychomancy to lead to <a idref="sect170">Section 170</a> rather than <a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>. <!--ERRTAG-AD-293821-ITEM--> Added <quote>If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, turn to 224.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-293821-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-2940381-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you do not possess this skill</quote> with <quote>If you do not possess either of these skills, or do not wish to use them</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-2940381-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-277805-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>purple, he</quote> with <quote>purple; he</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277805-ITEM--> Made Urik's quote from The Way of the Shianti a separate paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-280559-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Toa tree</quote> with <quote>toa tree</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-280559-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">253</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-285655-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285655-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-285769-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>staff</quote> with <quote>Staff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285769-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-286603-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fight you</quote> with <quote>fight, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286603-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-286946-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>completely <!--link-text-->turn</quote> with <quote>completely, <!--link-text-->turn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286946-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-287427-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Scree Wrym</quote> with <quote>Scree Wyrm</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-287427-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-287616-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>death throes</quote> with <quote>death-throes</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-287616-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-288431-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Shazarak</quote> with <quote>Shasarak</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-288431-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-291628-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>day&rsquot;, dawn</quote> with <quote>day&rsquot; dawn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-291628-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-293978-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Wizard's staff</quote> with <quote>Wizard's Staff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293978-ITEM--> Made the last sentence a separate paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-295511-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you, however</quote> with <quote>you; however</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-295511-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-302634-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>The Mind Gem may be placed in your Backpack where it will count as a Backpack Item, or it can be worn around your neck.</quote> with <quote>The Mind Gem is worn around your neck.</quote>, in order to avoid rules ambiguities.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-302634-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-299968-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>near.&rsquot; he</quote> with <quote>near,&rsquot; he</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-299968-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-301021-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Table<!--/a--></quote> with <quote>Table<!--/a-->.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301021-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-301504-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>eyeless tormented</quote> with <quote>eyeless, tormented</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301504-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-301884-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical Power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301884-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-304096-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>say &lsquot;I</quote> with <quote>say. &lsquot;I</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-304096-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-330115-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you have the Black Rod and wish to use it</quote> with <quote>If you wish to use the Black Rod</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330115-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-307675-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>guards falls</quote> with <quote>guards fall</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-307675-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-308601-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>&lsquot;Stranger&rsquot; he</quote> with <quote>&lsquot;Stranger,&rsquot; he</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-308601-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-311936-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kazim stone</quote> with <quote>Kazim Stone</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311936-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">248</a>) Changed the choice which led to <a idref="sect300">Section 300</a> to lead to <a idref="sect302">Section 302</a> instead. This section was unreachable in the original and fits well in the context of the story here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-315948-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sado, &lsquot;Charge</quote> with <quote>Sado. &lsquot;Charge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-315948-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-317448-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-317448-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Changed the choice to use Psychomancy to lead to <a idref="sect170">Section 170</a> rather than <a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>.<!--ERRTAG-AD-345164-ITEM--> Added <quote>If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, turn to 224.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-345164-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-328049-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Enchantment</quote> with <quote>Power of Enchantment</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-328049-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-319453-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Huminoid</quote> with <quote>Humanoid</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-319453-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-321049-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magical power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321049-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Changed the third choice which led to <a idref="sect208">Section 208</a> to lead to <a idref="sect234">Section 234</a> instead. <a idref="sect208">Section 208</a> is clearly inappropriate, and this change was made in some editions of the book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-329493-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Azawood leaves</quote> with <quote>Azawood leaf</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329493-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-336135-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>You have two Azawood leaves remaining.</quote> with <quote>You have used one Azawood leaf.</quote>, as you did not necessarily have three leaves to begin with.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-336135-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-331963-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>staff</quote> with <quote>Staff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-331963-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-336950-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> or keep it in your Backpack where it will count as a Backpack Item</quote>, in order to avoid rules ambiguities.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-336950-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-334885-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>staff</quote> with <quote>Staff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-334885-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-335965-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Samu, &lsquot;I've</quote> with <quote>Samu. &lsquot;I've</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335965-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-338105-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>elementals</quote> with <quote>Elementals</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338105-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>Beyond The Shadow Gate</quote> with <quote>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-339666-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>series entitled</quote> with <quote>series, entitled</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-339666-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Added a fourth step <quote>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</quote> in the first step list. Replaced <quote>of chart</quote> with <quote>of the chart</quote>, <quote>to random</quote> with <quote>to the random</quote> and <quote>to 0</quote> with <quote>0 or below</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-342430-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>to <!--a idref="crtable"-->Combat</quote> with <quote>to the <!--a idref="crtable"-->Combat</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-342430-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-342582-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-342582-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) If you have completed <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>, your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score will be zero before you begin this book. It doesn't seem fair to start this book with only 10 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, so you may choose to create a new <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score by choosing a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and adding 20. You may also choose to add the 10 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point bonus to this new score.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may wish to use your original <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score from the beginning of <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>, and add 10 bonus points to this.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) If you choose Alchemy as your new Magical Power, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a> section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Turn directly to <a idref="sect149">Section 149</a> if the Magdi is still alive after 4 rounds. Do not finish the combat.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) After taking the Karmo potion and fighting your opponent, halve your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> scores. It is at your discretion whether you should apply the penalty to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> before or after halving your score. The former option is the most beneficial.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) You are forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Remember to deduct the total from your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score before turning.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Remember to deduct the total from your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score before turning.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) If you have not already done so, mark the Black Rod as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) As you have used your Power of Evocation against the Deathgaunts, you should deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. (cf. <a idref="sect120">Section 120</a>)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) You are forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) From this point in the story, this book suffers from a game design problem in that many sections give you options between using different forms of magic, but no option for what to do if your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score has reached zero or below. If you encounter such a situation, you may choose one of the options anyway and continue subtracting <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, or you may conclude that Grey Star has failed his mission and that the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) As you are using your Wizard's Staff against the Scree Wyrm, you should deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) You may be forced to choose to use a Magical Power, even though all the Powers that are available to you may require you to use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than you currently possess. If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points required to use the Power you select. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) If you use a leaf from a Bundle of dried Azawood Leaves, the Bundle now has three leaves left.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect1">Section 1</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect4">Section 4</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect23">Section 23</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect31">Section 31</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect60">Section 60</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect66">Section 66</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect76">Section 76</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect78">Section 78</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect124">Section 124</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect125">Section 125</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect145">Section 145</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect182">Section 182</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect219">Section 219</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect225">Section 225</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect247">Section 247</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect257">Section 257</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect275">Section 275</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect298">Section 298</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect307">Section 307</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect310">Section 310</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Shadakine Empire</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect37">37</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect50">50</a>, <a idref="sect81">81</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect52">52</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect71">71</a>, <a idref="sect249">249</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect72">72</a>, <a idref="sect209">209</a>, <a idref="sect213">213</a>, <a idref="sect256">256</a>, <a idref="sect269">269</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect103">103</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect117">117</a>, <a idref="sect163">163</a>, <a idref="sect188">188</a>, <a idref="sect223">223</a>, <a idref="sect258">258</a>, <a idref="sect261">261</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect133">133</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect200">200</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect222">222</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
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-
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-
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-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.13 2005/10/13 17:17:09 angantyr
-...and use the right copyright year. Sigh.
-
-Revision 1.12 2005/10/13 16:49:47 angantyr
-Added Paul Bonner in the copyright tags.
-
-Revision 1.11 2005/10/09 14:26:23 angantyr
-Corrected the last oversights and issues found by Simon. Ready to publish!
-
-Revision 1.10 2005/10/01 21:32:17 angantyr
-Fixed some recent errata and added/updated footnote entries having to do
-with insufficient WILLPOWER. Also made some small illustrations adjustments.
-
-Revision 1.9 2005/08/21 20:53:15 angantyr
-Added/modified footnotes.
-
-Revision 1.8 2005/08/14 19:52:04 angantyr
-Fixed various *ne issues.
-
-Revision 1.7 2005/08/12 23:23:51 jonathan.blake
-Minor updates and illustration corrections.
-
-Revision 1.6 2005/08/11 22:14:54 jonathan.blake
-Modified small illustrations placements according to discussions on mailing list.
-
-Revision 1.5 2005/07/13 03:52:27 jonathan.blake
-Added illustrations for Powers section and reordered small illustration list. Needs placement of small6.gif and small8.gif.
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/04/21 15:53:05 jonathan.blake
-jffdougan said: Added illustrations, implemented minor approved fixes
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/04/01 22:31:03 jonathan.blake
-Illustration code added by jffdougan - still needs dimensions
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/21 17:59:53 angantyr
-Initial Freepository revision, of the 2004-06-20 version of the file.
-
-2004-06-20:
-- Final(?) update at the end of the comment period.
-
-2004-06-13:
-- Implementing the changes before the comment period.
-
-2004-05-15 ehswolm:
-- Prepared for generation of preview.
-
-2004-05-13 ehswolm:
-- Implementing Jon's judgements for the unclear issues.
-
-2004-05-09:
-- Implemented most of the footnotes and some additional errata.
-
-2004-05-08:
-- Implemented most of the errata, except unclear issues.
-
-2004-04-11:
-- Started implementing errata...
-
-2004-04-04:
-- Implemented all known *ne.
-
-2004-01-24:
-- Fixed most of the *ne collected this far.
-- Updated acknowledgements
-- Removed the huge errata suggesting list in the revision comment below,
- it's all in the EC now
-
-2003-12-30, session 1:
-- Updated the acknowledgements section
-- Made some technical XML changes
-- refreshed the main <meta> block.
-- Linkified "map"
-- Restored "the pocket of your robe" in Equipment.
-- Updated the cation chart to look like 02tfc
-- inserted Chris's illustrations
-2003-12-30, session 2:
-- fixed *ne (non-encoded links 121->139, 160->154, 174->104)
-- separated choices in 174 (*errata, but had to be done to endode the links)
-- encoded some left behind entities in the blurb
-- fixed obsolete illustration filenames
-- replaced the hardcoded license with an &inclusion;
-- created errata list entries for some stuff that has already been corrected
- due to copy-paste from earlier books
-- populated the illustrations section
-
-Revision 1.3 2003/01/16 20:30:26 jblake
-Validity fixes.
-Revision 1.2 2003/01/15 21:00:00 jdougan
-Checkin of Jeff Dougan's work.
-
-- correctly typset Kleasá in all five occurrences
-- Pasted in back matter from GStW; removed items from Errata list.
-- Marked up Front Matter, using cut-and-paste from 01GStW Version 1.4 (12 January 2003) whereever possible
-- Fixed a choice coding issue in section 121 caused by having 2 choices in 1 paragraph
-- &emdash;, &endash;, and ' codings
-- added <thought> markups to the Guardian's speeches.
-- inserted blurb, dedication, and text for section 105.
-- Deleted duplicated errata lists
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/21 21:36:12 jblake
-Initial revision
-
--->
-<!--
-Secondary illustration summaries:
-small1: multiple glowing orbs
-small2: egg-shaped stone on a pedestal
-small3: plume of smoke (I think)
-small4: leaning tower
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-small8: wild-haired woman
-small9: fist rising out of fog
-small10: the ethetron
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Ian Page</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Ian Page<br />Illustrated by Paul Bonner<br />Edited by Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.ian.page.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.paul.bonner.bio.gs;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>10</month><day>13</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the Wizard Grey Star, chosen hero of an ancient magical race&emdash;the Shianti. To find the Moonstone, source of all Shianti wisdom, you must venture <!--ERRTAG-RE-2974--><strong>Beyond The Nightmare Gate</strong><!--/ERRTAG-RE-2974-->.</p>
- <p>Dare you enter a realm of mystery, a world of gods and demons? For somewhere in this twilight region is the secret of the Moonstone. Only you can find it and with its power throw down the evil Shasarak and save mankind. Your journey will take you across the grey plains of the Neverness, past the dark enchantments of the Crystal Tower, and on towards perils undreamed of. Armed only with the Wizard's Staff and the magical spells of the Shianti, you must step into a nightmare world where only the bravest will survive!</p>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-3604--><cite>The World of Lone Wolf</cite><!--/ERRTAG-RE-3604--> is an exciting adventure series in which you are the hero, you make the decisions, and you fight the combats using the unique systems included in the book.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Concept copyright © 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.<br />Text copyright © 1986 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1986 Paul Bonner.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Concept copyright © 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.<br />Text copyright © 1986 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1986 Paul Bonner.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Pat and David</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="coming" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Mike David</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Replacement Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Christopher Lundgren (map and small illustrations)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Ryan Cross (Sections 36&endash;70)<br />Simon Osborne (front matter, Sections 1&endash;35, 71&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Christopher Lundgren<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
-<!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd>-->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br />Patrick Kalinauskas</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="coming">
- <meta>
- <title>Of the Coming of Grey Star</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a place to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this new-found land.</p>
- <p>To the delight of the Shianti, the race of man first emerged at this time and they watched his early struggle towards civilization with eager concern. Like gods, the Shianti seemed to the minds of primitive men. Tall and proud, shining with a radiance that spoke of magic and arcane mystery, the Shianti moved among them and with their powers of wizardry, aided man in his development.</p>
- <p>As the centuries passed, man fell to worship of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-7321-->magical<!--/ERRTAG-RE-7321--> Shianti and the power of these wizards grew even stronger. With hungry hearts they sought to unlock the mysteries of knowledge, sending their minds into other planes of existence and strange worlds beyond the sphere of the material plane. Their foresight was now unmatched and the power of their thought was mighty indeed. It was at this time that they created the Moonstone. Woven of the very fabric of the astral plane of Daziarn, this translucent gem was the greatest achievement of Shianti wisdom. It was the binding force of all Shianti magic, containing the combined might of all their wizardry, the sum of all their knowledge. The Golden Age of the Shianti had come and the Moonstone was the instrument of their dominion throughout all Magnamund. Man stood as little more than a shadow, blinded by the shining white light of Shianti glory. But, in creating the Moonstone, the unwritten laws of nature had been transgressed. For the Moonstone, like the Shianti themselves, was something outside of man's own world; it defied the natural order laid down by the creators of the Earth and disrupted the balance that the gods had designed.</p>
- <p>The Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon and mother of all men, showed herself to the Shianti and spoke to them of the destiny of man: <quote>The children of this world must claim their inheritance. Their time has come and they must learn to stand alone. They are lost in their worship of you and the day draws ever nearer when they will covet the power of the Moonstone.</quote></p>
- <p>And the Shianti said: <quote>Forgive us, Great Goddess, for we intended no harm. We love mankind even as you do. We have sought to do good and protect your children from harm.</quote></p>
- <p>But Ishir replied, <quote>Of this there can be no doubt, but this world is not your realm. Man must be free to pursue his destiny alone, and you must leave, for you trespass on his domain.</quote></p>
- <p>The Shianti were filled with sorrow. They feared a return to the void and to their lonely wandering, and pleaded with Ishir that she might allow them to remain. Ishir was filled with pity for them. She spoke again, saying, <quote>If you are to remain, you must obey my command. You must take a vow never to interfere with mankind's fate. As a token of good faith you must lay aside the Moonstone, and return it to the plane where it belongs.</quote></p>
- <p>Solemnly, the Shianti agreed. The vow was sworn before Ishir, and the Moonstone was returned to the Daziarn. The Shianti then moved south to the Isle of Lorn. They encircled their new home with a web of enchantments, magical mists and mage winds to prevent man from ever finding their place of refuge in the Sea of Dreams. Knowledge of the Shianti faded with time, save in southern Magnamund where it became enshrined in legend, and the worship of them endured. Priests of the Shianti religion preserved their teachings and patiently awaited the day when the <quote>ancient ones</quote> would return, bringing with them lasting peace and the blessing of a new golden age.</p>
- <p>Two thousand years strode by and man advanced as Ishir had foretold. He built great cities and cultivated the land; his kingdoms rose and fell; he made war and loved and laughed and became master of his fate. But a new power was emerging in the province of Shadaki. There Shasarak the evil Wytch-king ruled. The black necromancer commanded an army of brutal soldiers and had a devoted following of men who upheld his religion of demonic worship and sacrificial rites. Devotees of the Shianti and other religious cults were persecuted in a merciless purge. Ruthlessly, the Wytch-king destroyed all his opponents and began a terrible war with the peoples of the neighbouring provinces. From the ruins of war Shasarak shaped the Shadakine Empire, subjugating whole nations to his evil rule. As the provinces fell to his might, the Shianti looked on helplessly, bound by their vow to the Goddess Ishir never to interfere in the affairs of man.</p>
- <p>On the night of the crowning of Shasarak as Overlord of the Shadakine Empire, a great storm broke upon the Sea of Dreams, a storm that raged with unnatural intensity. Lashed by wind and rain, illuminated by wild lightning, the waters heaved and danced in fury to the thundering music of the storm, unchecked by even the enchantments of the Shianti. When finally the tempest died, the Shianti looked out in amazement on the shattered hull of a ship drifting towards their shore. Never before had this occurred, for the enchantments and mage winds had kept them secure from the curiosity of man by forcing him to sail close to his own land.</p>
- <p>The Shianti went quickly to the ruined ship where they found only one survivor&emdash;a baby. They perceived the sudden arrival of this human child as a sign of great portent, and they conceived a plan by which they might lawfully aid mankind. They named the orphan child Grey Star, because a star is the symbol of hope in the Shianti faith, and because of the silver streak in the child's jet-black hair. In the shadow of the wrath of the Goddess Ishir, they raised the child as one of their own and taught him their secrets. Diligently they set about their instruction, for their aim was to provide a saviour for mankind. Armed with the might of Shianti wizardry and wisdom, their hope was to create an adversary equal in power to the evil Wytch-king of Shadaki, for they realized that only with the death of Shasarak would man once more be free to determine his destiny.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="coming" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grey Star, trained in the ancient lore of a Shianti Wizard. For sixteen years you have dwelt in safety on the Isle of Lorn, the hidden realm of the magical Shianti race, until Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, decides to send you upon a dangerous quest: to save your own people, the race of man, from the tyrannical Wytch-king of Shadaki, Shasarak. Held by their ancient vow to the goddess Ishir, the Shianti are unable to leave their island either to come to the direct aid of man or to retrieve the Moonstone, which possesses the combined forces of all Shianti powers and lies hidden on another plane. As a human, no vow prohibits you from leaving the island and you have been sent to recover the Moonstone and commanded to use its power to defeat the Wytch-king. The Moonstone is hidden on the Daziarn plane, which can be entered only by finding one of its portals.</p>
- <p>Your quest begins with the search for the Shadow Gate, a doorway to the Daziarn that never remains in one place for longer than a day and is invisible to the human eye. To help you find the Shadow Gate you first seek the Lost Tribe of Lara, a race of magical but primitive creatures called the Kundi, who possess the gift of astral vision, enabling them to see the gateways to other worlds and dimensions.</p>
- <p>On first arriving at the Port of Suhn, the major trading port of the Shadakine Empire, you are befriended by Shan Li, a merchant who serves as your guide through these strange and foreign lands. A short while after, you are captured and imprisoned in the House of Correction, the prison of Suhn and citadel of Mother Magri, a Wytch in the service of Shasarak. Tanith, a young girl learning the ways of wytchcraft comes to your rescue. She helps you escape from the dungeons of Mother Magri and later sacrifices herself, calling the shadow demon, the Kleasá, against her to save you from its attack.</p>
- <p>After many more adventures you come, at last, to the Azanam, the treetop home of the Kundi. They give you Urik the Wise, an old Kundi Shaman, to guide you to the Shadow Gate. The two of you cross the dangerous lands of the Shadakine Empire, pursuing Urik's vision which leads you, finally, to the Forbidden City of Gyanima in the Mountains of Morn. Beyond is Desolation Valley and there you find the Shadow Gate. However, it is guarded by one of Shasarak's many slaves, a demon Kleasá; in fact the very Kleasá that captured Tanith, who stands in the Gateway, eternal prisoner of Shasarak unless you can free her. Finally you discover a way of releasing the Kleasá and opening the Gate.</p>
- <p>Bidding farewell to Urik, you prepare to enter the Gate.<!--ERRTAG-DE-16506/--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="powers" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1"><p>This section of the rules implies that you must re-pick all three scores&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>&emdash;even though you may have already completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books and therefore appears to be a mistake. In order to preserve rule consistency among the books, you may choose to retain your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores and only re-pick you <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2"><p>If you have completed book two but not book one, it seems reasonable to add 25 to the number you picked.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-4-foot" idref="gamerulz-4"><p>There are sections in the <cite>Grey Star</cite> books that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-3-foot" idref="gamerulz-3"><p>It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To keep a record of your adventure, use the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-16714/-->.<!--ERRTAG-DE-16788/--></p>
- <p>Before you set off on your adventure, you must discover how well your Shianti masters have prepared you for your quest by determining your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;your state of mind&emdash;<typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>&emdash;and your physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>.<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> To do this take a pencil and, with eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-17293/-->. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
-
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
-
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>. Add 20 to this number if this is your first Grey Star adventure, 25 if you have completed book one successfully, 30 if you have also completed book two.<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote" /> Write the total in the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and this is your first adventure, you would have a <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> of 26). If you decide to use a spell or utilize the power of your Wizard's Staff, then you will lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero, you may not use any of your spells<a id="gamerulz-4" idref="gamerulz-4-foot" class="footnote" /> or your Wizard's Staff.<a id="gamerulz-3" idref="gamerulz-3-foot" class="footnote" /> Lost <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points can be regained during the course of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-18846-->adventure, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-18846--> it is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to rise above the total with which you start your adventure.</p>
-
- <p>The third number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). If you are wounded in combat, you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure but can never rise above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="powers">
- <meta>
- <title>Magical Powers</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="powers-1-foot" idref="powers-1"><p>The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Powers again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Powers again. If you have have completed at least one previous adventure, you may choose one additional Power from the list. If you choose Alchemy as your new Magical Power, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a> section.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="powers-2-foot" idref="powers-2"><p>If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>If this is your first Grey Star adventure, your education in the ways of wizardry is incomplete: you have mastered only five of the seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-20262-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20262--> that the Shianti call the <!--ERRTAG-RA-20303-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20303-->. The choice of which <!--ERRTAG-RE-20426-->five Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-20426--> these are, is up to you. If you have completed either books one or two or both of the Grey Star adventures, you may choose six of the seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-20262-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20262-->.<a id="powers-1" idref="powers-1-foot" class="footnote" /> All of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-20303-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20303--> will be of use to you at some point on your quest, so choose them with care. Your survival may depend on the correct use of a <!--ERRTAG-RE-20838-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-20838--> at the right time.</p>
- <p>The seven <!--ERRTAG-RA-20262-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20262--> available to you are listed below. When you have chosen your <!--ERRTAG-RE-21111-->five or six Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-21111-->, enter them in the Magical Powers section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sorcery">
- <meta><title>Sorcery</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="386" height="122" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="sorcery-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="sorcery-ill" class="accent-illustration" />This <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> allows a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than any other Magical Power, and is most effective when your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points are high.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-->, write <quote>Sorcery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="enchant">
- <meta><title>Enchantment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="386" height="130" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="enchant-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="enchant-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-->, write <quote>Enchantment</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="elementl">
- <meta><title>Elementalism</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="386" height="118" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="elementl-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="elementl-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-->, write <quote>Elementalism</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Alchemy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="386" height="121" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="alchemy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="alchemy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />A wizard who possesses the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e., <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>), or temporarily improve various abilities (e.g., <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>). The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-25052-->Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-25052--> may also allow a wizard to alter the nature of substances (e.g., change lead into gold), but the necessary ingredients and the correct equipment (e.g., a pestle and mortar) must be at hand. The use of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> of Alchemy drains no <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> write <quote>Alchemy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prophecy">
- <meta><title>Prophecy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="386" height="123" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="prophecy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="prophecy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />The <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> of <!--ERRTAG-RE-26064-->Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26064--> allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> of <!--ERRTAG-RE-26585-->Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26585-->.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-->, write <quote>Prophecy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psycmncy">
- <meta><title>Psychomancy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="386" height="126" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="psycmncy-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="psycmncy-ill" class="accent-illustration" />This <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-->, write <quote>Psychomancy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evcation">
- <meta><title>Evocation</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="386" height="131" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="evcation-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="evcation-ill" class="accent-illustration" />Mastery of this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.</p>
- <p>If you choose this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-->, write <quote>Evocation</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="staff">
- <meta><title>Wizard's Staff</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="386" height="120" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="accent" id="staff-ill">
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="112" height="141" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p><a idref="staff-ill" class="accent-illustration" />Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this <!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-->Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638--> you must deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="powers-2" idref="powers-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in close combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and multiply the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy, accordingly. For example, if you chose to expend 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on your attack, all enemy <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses would be multiplied by three.</p>
- <p>If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="powers" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-1-foot" idref="equipmnt-1"><p>If you have completed a previous adventure, you keep all equipment you had at the end of that adventure. You do not receive any new equipment, unless you have just selected Alchemy as your sixth Magical Power, in which case you receive a Herb Pouch with contents as indicated in this section.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-2-foot" idref="equipmnt-2"><p>If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wear the grey robe and hooded cloak of a Shianti Wizard. Your only weapon is your Wizard's Staff (note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under Weapons). You wear a Backpack containing 4 Meals (note under Meals on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), and you have been given a <a idref="map">map of the Shadakine Empire</a> (note under Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), which you place inside your robe.<a id="equipmnt-1" idref="equipmnt-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>If you have chosen Alchemy as one of your Magical Powers, then you will have a leather pouch for herbs and potions hanging from your belt. The Herb Pouch contains the following:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>2 empty Vials for carrying potions</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Saltpetre</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Sulphur</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>Mark these 4 items in your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Your Herb Pouch will carry a maximum of eight items.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Wizard's Staff&emdash;Carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Backpack&emdash;slung over the shoulder.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is <em>two</em>. Your Wizard's Staff counts as one weapon.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd><p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack, When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Nobles (Shadakine currency)</dt>
- <dd><p>These are carried in the pocket of your robe.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
-
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.<a id="equipmnt-2" idref="equipmnt-2-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> depends on your Wizard's Staff. If you do not possess your Staff when you enter combat you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat without a weapon, deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry <em>two</em> weapons at once.)</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember that you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at any one time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd><p>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Currency</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of the Shadakine Empire is the Noble, which is a small jade stone. The system of money is alien to the Shianti, and for this reason you begin your adventure with no money. Whenever you kill an enemy, you may take any Nobles belonging to him and keep them in the pocket of your robe.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="sage" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Grey Star's aim during the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while at the same time losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Calculate your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total, based on the weapon you are using. (Remember, if you enter combat without your Staff, you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points.)</p></li>
- <li><p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p><a id="stage3">If you are using your Wizard's Staff</a>, decide how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use. (Remember, you must expend at least 1 point.) Enter this number on your Combat Record in the box marked <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Grey Star (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> 23) is ambushed by a Deathgaunt (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but he can use his Wizard's Staff against the creature as it swoops down on him. He subtracts the Deathgaunt's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −5. (15 − 20 = −5). −5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio. Grey Star decides to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, which is noted on the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> box of the Combat Record.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>When you have decided upon the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use, and have determined your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-39627/-->. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it With the random number that you have picked. (The random numbers appear on the side of the chart.) You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by Grey Star. To calculate the number lost by the enemy, multiply this by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points that Grey Star elected to use. Now you have the final number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Grey Star and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; GS represents points lost by Grey Star.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Grey Star and the Deathgaunt has been established as −5, and Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used as 2. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Grey Star loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Deathgaunt loses 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, multiplied by 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, giving a total of 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in all.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat, and Grey Star's amended <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or4 Grey Star are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Grey Star is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Grey Star proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears <!--ERRTAG-RE-42159-->in the back of this book<!--/ERRTAG-RE-42159-->.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Grey Star may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sage">
- <meta>
- <title>Sage Advice</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to begin a quest of utmost importance and terrible danger. Beware, for you enter a world quite different from the one you leave behind. Here, even the natural laws are strange and you will need all your wits and cunning to survive in this alien world.</p>
- <p>You will find items that might be of assistance. Some Special Items will help you on your quest, others may be of no use at all. You must decide what to keep.</p>
- <p>Be cautious in your use of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, as your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is the energy source for your Magical Powers and your Wizard's Staff. A score of zero <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points will leave you weak and vulnerable to attack, unable to offer effective resistance.</p>
- <p>Follow the path of wisdom, Wizard Grey Star. The way of fools is the road to destruction!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith takes you by the hand and you step forward into a tunnel of swirling mist. As the outline of the Shadow Gate fades behind you, you gaze at your new surroundings. Horrified, you perceive strange shapes and pale faces writhing within the tunnel wall. The faces stare at you vacantly, mouthing indistinguishable words, and you walk along the tunnel to a barrage of murmuring voices, muffled cries, moaning and sobbing. Tanith looks at you but says nothing, the terror in her eyes mirroring your own. <quote>Such a place could drive a man insane,</quote> you say, quietly.</p>
- <p>The two of you walk faster into the unknown, your hearts pounding with anticipation. Finally, the tunnel opens on to a vast plain of white cloud suspended beneath a sunless sky. Stepping on to this twilit plain, you notice that the light of the sky casts no shadow and disappears into absolute blackness above your head. Looking down, you can see no solid ground beneath the cloud, which somehow supports you. Like the Shadow Gate before, the tunnel of mists fades away and you find yourself staring out across the bleak silence of the Daziarn. Scanning the distant horizon, you sight the outline of a building. Tanith tugs your arm. <quote>Look!</quote> she says, pointing away to the left. You follow the direction of her outstretched arm to see the hunched figure of a man, gliding slowly across the plain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to head towards the distant building, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to question the man, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There are mirrors of every conceivable size and variety hanging both on the walls and the ceiling. You can see only one other exit from the room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to search the room, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you wish to leave by the other exit, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith takes a step towards Drear, her mind bewitched by his enchantment. You resist the power of his call, using the strength of your will but you expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points before Drear's spell is completely banished from your mind.</p>
- <p>With an anguished cry, Drear suddenly vanishes and Tanith regains her senses with a start. <quote>I was almost his to command,</quote> she comments, breathless and frightened.</p>
- <p><quote>Come,</quote> you reply, <quote>to the Crystal Tower. We are sure to learn something of the Moonstone there.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you set down the heavy statue and a sigh of relief escapes the Elessi's lips. <thought>I am the Guardian of the Screaming God,</thought> he says in a clear, musical tone. <thought>Before you continue this madness, let me tell you of that which you seek to steal.</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you agree to the Guardian's request, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not agree to the Guardian's request and wish to take up the statue and continue, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If your total is now 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is now less than 20, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Academicians gave you a detailed description of the Threnogem and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you search for it with your mind. It is very near. To your surprise, you sense no magical presence or power; whatever power the Threnogem might possess, it is now inactive. Your vision leads you to a long avenue paved with crystal stones. At the end of the avenue stands a magnificent palace. The Threnogem awaits you there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262"><link-text>Turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you raise your Staff and hurl a bolt of magical fire at the nearest Elessi. He falls to the ground and his companions recoil in horror.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add this number to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If your total is now 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If it is less than 15, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take one step forward and instantly a sword drops from above, fatally skewering your head.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are looking into a large, circular room full of mirrors. It is completely empty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to enter the room, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you search the future to help you make the correct decision. Your vision tells you that the Elessi is able to read your mind and, indeed, has already done so. The truth alone will suffice here; you must trust the Elessi to understand that you were forced by others to commit your action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You study the inscription again, only to find that the words have changed once more. Tanith reads the inscription aloud:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>Ware the hunters, beasts of prey,
- <br />Five in number, <!--ERRTAG-RE-54254-->feared by name:<!--/ERRTAG-RE-54254-->
- <br />The widow woman, patient weaver;
- <br />The tireless runner, shadow-seeker;
- <br />Bird of fire, the treasure lover;
- <br />Arrow-swift, his keen-eyed brother;
- <br />But only he who walks without feet
- <br />May pass this door of mystery.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to try the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to try the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to try the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to try the <!--ERRTAG-RE-51976-->Spider Key<!--/ERRTAG-RE-51976-->, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to try the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to strike the door with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are now close to the foot of the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to walk to the one-sword flagstone directly at the base of the stairs, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to step on to the two-sword flagstone next to it, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to step on to the two-sword flagstone that lies directly behind the foot of the stairs, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to move in the direction of the main entrance and on to the two-sword flagstone behind you, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to step on to the centre stone that bears just one sword, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find Oz-na-Mun sitting before his shack, staring at a tall mass of moist, red clay before him. His gaunt face is full of sorrow and he does not even look up when you approach. <quote>So you have come,</quote> he says, flatly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Oz-na-Mun is sitting before his shack, staring at a mass of red clay</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="643"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="643"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You knew I was coming?</quote> you reply, surprised.</p>
- <p><quote>He has been here; your shadow brother, your dark self. There was a girl with him also.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I seek the Moonstone of the Shianti,</quote> you state. <quote>Do you know where it is and how it may be found?</quote></p>
- <p>The sad-eyed man looks at you solemnly. <quote>There is a mountain, the Moaning Mountain it is called. In the side of the mountain is a cavern and at the end of the cavern is a Gate from this realm to the next, a place known as the Vale of Peace. The people of the Vale are wise and friendly; they will show you the way to the hidden realm of the Moonstone. Here, take this map of the Moaning Mountain.</quote> He gives you a cloth map showing the location of the cavern. Mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and carry it in a small pocket inside your robe.</p>
- <p><quote>But first you must leave this realm and save the girl.</quote> You nod your head. <quote>You will have to bargain with the Master.</quote> You look puzzled and the man explains: <quote>All who come to the Realm of Paradox may ask for a gift from the god and, if it is within his power, he must give it. But beware his bargains. He has many cruel gifts; gifts such as these.</quote> Oz-na-Mun raises his hands and you look at them with horror. They are the hands of a giant and are grossly out of proportion with the rest of his body.</p>
- <p><quote>Once, I was a great sculptor and in my home realm of Meledor I was respected by all. But I hungered for greater success. I took up the company of a mage and one night we summoned the <!--ERRTAG-RA-59122-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-59122--> together. His spirit came easily, for the realm of Meledor and the Realm of Paradox are joined. I told him <!--ERRTAG-RE-55764-->that I desired<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55764--> the greatest hands in the world that I might make the greatest sculptures in the world. He said he could grant me my wish on condition that I remain in his realm until completion of my first work. I agreed and as soon as I was brought here, I discovered that my hands had been transformed. However, they were not as I had wished: they were clumsy, rough, fit only for digging clay not shaping it. I have never made another piece.</quote> He curls a huge hand into a fist and punches the shapeless mass before him. <quote>Beware the bargains of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-59122-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-59122-->. He is a malevolent god.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What does he want with the girl, Tanith?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>He will bargain with her, also.</quote> He tells you that you can summon the <!--ERRTAG-RA-59122-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-59122--> by calling to him for audience. <quote>But beware! The bargains of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-59122-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-59122--> are in keeping with the law of Paradox: opposites and contradictions.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>There is no other way of saving Tanith,</quote> you reply, sadly. <quote>I must summon the <!--ERRTAG-RA-59122-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-59122-->.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to control the craft but make such a bumpy landing that you are hurled from the machine. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to injuries sustained in the fall. The Ethetron grinds to a noisy, juddering halt but fortunately, like yourself, it has survived the impact.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You perceive that the realm you have entered harbours many illusions: the waters of a blue ocean, rippling with foam-crested waves, roll above your head where the sky should be; below, green hills undulate between mountains balanced upon their peaks; a huge fist rises up, poised to smash down upon you but you pass through it as if it were a phantom. All around is the sound of crazed laughter. A man who believed in the reality of these illusions would stand at the threshold of madness. With the strength of your will you challenge the illusions that surround you; instantly the nightmare vision disappears.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drear is working a subtle magic on your mind. Closing your eyes, you concentrate the power of your will, and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, summon the magical energy of the Astral plane. But your Power of Sorcery appears to have no effect. Perhaps Drear's magic does not obey the same laws as your own and is beyond your control?</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to attack Drear with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to resist Drear's call without the aid of magic, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must act quickly, before he can pronounce sentence, for you are sure that the sentence can only be death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to rush at the man, and attempt to fight him bare-handed, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it to create a shield around yourself, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it to summon your Staff into your hand, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you have a Mind Gem and wish to use its power, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you possess a silver Elessi Pipe and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing on the battlements of the Crystal Tower. You see a skylight and, with Tanith following, you enter a dark room. Two cold, black eyes watch your every move as, cautiously, you advance into the room. A slight sound from above causes you to glance at the ceiling, where a hideous, leathery-winged creature is preparing to attack. There is no time to evade; you must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Daemonak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessi stops playing his strange, silver <!--ERRTAG-RE-64782-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64782--> and, at long last, the terrible pain in your head ceases. The Elessin guards drag you to your feet. Your brain reels from the assault of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-64974-->pipes<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64974--> and you are powerless to resist them. With a guard holding each arm, you are marched to a massive palace that lies at the very heart of the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pulling back the steering lever, you draw more power and coax the flying machine to climb. Soon, the Crystal Tower is nothing but a speck on a barren grey landscape. Taking out the Gyronome, you discover that you are travelling in the right direction. Presumably, there is more than one route that leads from the Neverness. The sound of the Gyronome grows louder as you climb higher into the featureless sky.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the craft lurches forwards and you are pitched to the floor. You feel a tingling sensation throughout your body and, as you stagger to your feet, you gaze upon a wondrous sight. You are flying through a clear, sunlit sky. The wind is rushing past your face and, below, the land is fresh and green.</p>
- <p>You have passed through an invisible barrier or Gate that connects the Neverness with this realm. In the distance you can see a city, gleaming brightly beneath the sun: it is the Singing City of the Elessin.</p>
- <p>You sway as the wind buffets the ship. You struggle to regain control as the Ethetron violently bucks and reels. You are disoriented by the sudden change and, clumsily, you try to make a landing.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Talisman of the Shianti, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total is now 4&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RE-66987-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RE-66987--> agrees to your request and Tanith comes running towards you. She looks at the Jahksa uncertainly, disturbed by his awesome presence. The Jahksa sneers at Tanith and looks back with eyes that burn with hatred.</p>
- <p>Now the Master tells you his terms. He demands that your request to be reunited with Tanith be extended to include the Jahksa. For the Jahksa is named <quote>Grey Star</quote>, too. It bows, a sly smile playing across its lips.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shrug off the grasp of the Elessi and raise your Staff to strike. Owing to the surprise of your attack, a few well-aimed blows are all that is required to <!--ERRTAG-RE-64119-->dispatch<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64119--> the Elessin; your attack costs you 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Only one Elessi remains. He backs away and places a small, silver <!--ERRTAG-RA-68157-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-68157--> to his lips. Immediately, a terrible screaming fills your head and you gasp with pain as the shriek of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-68157-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-68157--> claws at your mind.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If they total 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If they total more than 20, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add this number to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If your total is now 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is less than 20, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, you pick your way around the tower, but you are unable to find a door and soon find yourself back where you started. Bemused, you sigh and frown in puzzlement. <quote>If someone bothered to write that inscription, they must have bothered to make a door,</quote> you say to Tanith.</p>
- <p><quote>It must be hidden,</quote> she replies. With a shrug, you turn back and stare at the Crystal Tower once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to read the inscription again, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to search for a door on the left side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to search for a door on the right side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the Jahksa has summoned an Elemental wind against you. He must be unconcerned for his own safety and bent on your destruction whatever the cost. The use of this Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you do not possess this Power or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to attack the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you weave a shimmering wall of sorcery around yourself. The Elessi raises his jewelled crozier and carries out the sentence. Nothing happens. The Elessi looks at you in amazement; the power he sought to bring to bear on you has failed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have landed in a large field. In the distance you see the hazy outline of a city, gleaming in the sunlight. You take out the Gyronome and its tone confirms that you are in the Realm of the Singing City. Several people are running towards you from the city; they are fair haired, have strange, circular ears and are dressed in short, white togas. They are calling to you in a language you do not understand.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>They soon reach you and chatter enthusiastically as they point excitedly at both the Ethetron and the sky. You smile and nod and try to communicate with them the best you can. Their soft voices have a flute-like sound and their language, incomprehensible though it is, possesses a lilting, musical quality that is pleasing to the ear. They are Elessin and they are asking you to accompany them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to go with the Elessin, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you decide that it would be wiser to refuse, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately ahead, the bank of rolling cloud is fast transforming into a violent storm. Quickly, it surrounds the Ethetron. The Jahksa has summoned against you the Elementals that have served you so well in the past. You close your eyes and call out in the sibilant tongue of the Elemental spirits.</p>
- <p>Within the depths of your trance, four figures stand before you representing the principal Elements of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you desire the aid of the Fire Elemental, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you desire the aid of the Water Elemental, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you desire the aid of the Earth Elemental, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you desire the aid of the Air Elemental, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sentence is death. Before you can react, the Elessi lifts his jewelled crozier and a searing pain fills your head. The terrible noise drills into your brain, bursting your ear drums and hurling you to the floor in agony.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bend down and examine the inscription and read:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
-<quote>A life that's spent at odds with death,
-<br />Can dull the mind&emdash;the broadsword's edge.
-<br />But even-tempered swords and heads,
-<br />Fall easy where the foolish tread.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <p>While crouching, you catch sight of the ceiling. A dense mass of swords are suspended, points downward, in the air above your head. You feel sure that there is a connection between these swords and those inscribed in the flagstones.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to step on the flagstone directly ahead of you that bears two swords, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to step on the flagstone to the left that bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you decide to step on the flagstone ahead and slightly to the right that bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There are many crevices and projections in the wall and you climb it with little difficulty. Unfortunately, the other side of the wall is smooth and falls sheer, twenty feet to the ground below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you possess a Rope and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you decide to jump, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you hurl a flaming bolt at the screeching eagle that is rushing towards you. Your attack devastates the bird in an explosion of golden feathers and magical flame but somehow the eagle manages to stay <!--ERRTAG-RE-72562-->airborne<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72562-->. You raise your Staff and prepare to engage the eagle in close <!--ERRTAG-RE-72678-->combat.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72678--></p>
- <p><quote>Wait, Grey Star,</quote> says Tanith, her voice hard and forceful; <quote>I can handle this.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to allow Tanith to deal with the eagle, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you decide to ignore her command, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Above your head, where the sky should be, the blue waters of an ocean roll, rippling with foam-crested waves. Below, green hills and fields shift and move like water. The Ethetron rocks violently. You are no longer able to choose between up and down, left or right. Mountains stand upon their peaks; towns and cities drift past; night becomes day, and day becomes night in quick succession; a huge fist rears up, poised to strike, then passes through you like a phantom. All around you is the sound of crazed laughter.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect67">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is less than 12, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Anxiously you search around but there is no indication that this realm contains any peculiar features. Then a strange symmetrical shape, quite unlike a star, catches your eye. You steer the crippled Ethetron towards the object and, when you are close enough to <!--ERRTAG-RE-77482-->recognize<!--/ERRTAG-RE-77482--> it, you give a gasp of joy. It is a Trianon, a creation of the Shianti; instinctively you know that this must be the place where the Moonstone is hidden.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a fearsome shriek distracts your attention from the ancient Shianti tomb. The starlit sky is now full of terrible creatures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you cause the tip of your Wizard's Staff to glow with a dull light. The feeble light merely confirms that you are in the midst of an impenetrable blackness, devoid of all sound and movement but at least the light holds your terror at bay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith takes out the Dragon Key and begins to chant. The Jahksa realizes what she is doing and aims a blow at her. With a lightning reflex you are able to jolt his arm and spoil his aim. A cloud of magical fire explodes a few feet from Tanith but she does not flinch as she nears completion of her spell. The sound of leathery wings and the looming shadow of a dragon now threaten your dark twin. He curses and swiftly his body becomes transparent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Staff. Drear makes no attempt to defend <!--ERRTAG-RE-76225-->himself, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-76225--> you strike him with a mighty blow that costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. As the magical fire of your attack breaks the silence of the Neverness, Drear vanishes without a trace. Tanith regains her senses abruptly and shakes her head to clear her mind. <quote>I was almost his to command,</quote> she says with shocked disbelief.</p>
- <p><quote>Come,</quote> you reply, <quote>to the Crystal Tower. We are sure to learn something of the Moonstone there.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly, you draw out the Mind Gem and attempt to master the <!--ERRTAG-RE-77047-->Elessi, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-77047--> he is a powerful telepath and easily resists your power. Unperturbed, he carries out the sentence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28"><link-text>Turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a curt nod you keep walking, praying all the time that your bluff will work. The guard says nothing more and, with a sigh of relief, you walk unhindered into the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out and touch the statue. To your surprise, it feels warm and life-like. You concentrate your Power of Psychomancy (at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point) and, as you focus your power upon the statue, a violent surge shudders through your body and a terrible, inhuman scream echoes momentarily in your brain. The force of the blast throws you backwards to the floor and you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>You stare at the statue with a mixture of horror and loathing: it is alive!</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are walking forwards when suddenly a sword falls from the ceiling and skewers you from head to toe. You keel over in an ever-widening pool of blood.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fortunately, the Fire Sprites realize that you do not wish to set fire to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-81878-->Ethetron, but as<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81878--> there is little else to burn, they do not come to your aid. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-79202-->point. If<!--/ERRTAG-RE-79202--> you wish, you may maintain this trance state and seek the aid of one of the other Elements.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you desire the aid of the Earth Elemental, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you desire the aid of the Water Elemental, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you desire the aid of the Air Elemental, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to cease using Elemental Magic, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make it to the foot of the stairs without injury. Tanith traces out a similar course and, still alert and ready to act, you ascend the stairs.</p>
- <p>At the top of the stairs there is a narrow landing from which there is only one exit through a very heavy door. You try the handle and, to your delight, discover that it is open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to rush into the room beyond, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to open the door just a crack and peer in, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking Tanith by the arm, you make to move away. Drear is working a subtle magic, an enchantment that is hard to resist, and Tanith has already succumbed to his power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to attack Drear with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to use the Magical Power of Sorcery, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to resist Drear's call without the aid of magic, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger through the palace entrance. The Elessin follow but keep a respectful distance. You view the long flight of steps leading down from the palace with trepidation. You dare not discard the statue for you are sure that it is only the Elessin's fear of it that keeps them from attacking you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add this number to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If your total is now 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is now less than 20, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With smiling faces and much laughter, the Elessin lead you to their home. As you draw closer to the Singing City, you gaze in wonder upon the dazzling display of glass and fragmented light that gleams beneath the bright sun. Rainbows of colour splash from the delicate spires and splendid ivory towers that point towards the sky. Like the distant ringing of a million tiny <!--ERRTAG-RE-82691-->bells, the music<!--/ERRTAG-RE-82691--> of the city reaches your ears. You hear the warm resonance of a shifting bass accompanied by pure, whispering harmonies as delicate as a <!--ERRTAG-RE-82885-->breeze, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-82885--> you are awestruck by the magnificence of the city. The Academicians told you that the Elessin are cruel <!--ERRTAG-RE-83049-->creatures, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-83049--> their city suggests a purity of spirit beyond any mortal imagining.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Singing City with its delicate spires and splendid ivory towers</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="610"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="610"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You pass through the arched gateway of the city and walk along a long avenue of crystal paving stones.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the lonely terror of the absolute darkness your voice is swallowed up by the fathomless void. However, the chant conjures fond memories of your gentle Shianti masters and your fear swiftly subsides. You are gratified that even here, in this terrible limbo, the power and wisdom of the Shianti is still within your grasp. You regain 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a door. To your surprise, you and Tanith find yourselves standing in a circular chamber filled with a milky-white light. Your heart lifts when you recognize that the source of the light is the Moonstone itself. <quote>So you found it at last,</quote> says a voice behind you. It is the Jahksa.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You and Tanith find yourselves in a circular chamber filled with milky-white light</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wall has many crevices and projections and the foliage makes climbing easy. However, when you reach the top, you look down to see that the other side of the wall is smooth with a sheer drop to the ground of at least twenty feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you possess a Rope and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessi raises the jewelled crozier and prepares to carry out his sentence. At the expense of 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you wrench your Wizard's Staff from his hand and draw it towards you. The Elessi watches amazed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to fire a long-range attack at the Elessi, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to try to engage the Elessi in close combat, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hastily, you walk across the plane of clouds, crossing the Neverness and gaining on the Crystal Tower, which gleams faintly with a strange light. The tower is built from great shards of black <!--ERRTAG-RE-86063-->crystal, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-86063--> its design is entirely alien to your eyes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Crystal Tower gleams faintly with a strange light</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are still losing height as the greyish mist contained in the glass dome seeps from the Ethetron. Swerving like a tiny insect to avoid the weird creatures, you battle for control but the ship is becoming harder and harder to steer. Then, suddenly, they are no longer there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shake your head and the guard looks at you with a puzzled frown. He directs a stream of unintelligible phrases at you and you curse under your breath. Now you're really in trouble!</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you wish to make a run for it, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to nod your head, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to shake your head and continue, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have not taken more than a few steps when Tanith's scream causes you to look up. A sword hurtles towards you and slices cleanly through your chest, inflicting a fatal wound.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only available source of water is from within the storm clouds that surround you and, to the howling delight of the Jahksa, it begins to rain heavily. The use of this spell has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. You may maintain this trance state if you wish and seek the aid of another Elemental spirit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you desire the aid of the Fire Elemental, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you desire the aid of the Earth Elemental, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you desire the aid of the Air Elemental, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to stop using Elemental Magic, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-88915-->point, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88915--> reach out with your mind, seeking guidance from the future. You sense an imminent catastrophe if you take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth. The statue is a source of evil power and it is only the Threnogem that keeps this evil at bay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon you are back where you started, having completed a circuit of the Crystal Tower. To your immense surprise, however, there is now a door beneath the metal plate. Tanith has an incredulous look upon her face. <quote>There is strange sorcery at work here,</quote> she comments.</p>
- <p>The iron-shod door is tall and uninviting. You try the handle but the door is locked. You notice a keyhole and five Keys hanging on five hooks by the door. Each Key has been shaped into the likeness of a beast.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The iron-shod door is locked and five keys are hanging by it</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to use the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to use the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to use the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to use the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to try the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to read the inscription above the door, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to strike the door with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a brave cry you launch yourself at the Elessi. He is surprised by your bold move and you are able to drag him to the ground. Amidst a tangle of thrashing limbs, you attempt to wrestle him into submission. As you are fighting without a weapon, you must deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total for the duration of the fight, unless you possess a Jewelled Dagger, in which case, deduct only 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Elessi Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you are still fighting the Elessi after three rounds of combat but have the higher <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total,<!--ERRTAG-AD-95106--> and wish to cease fighting,<!--/ERRTAG-AD-95106--> <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you have already killed the Elessi after three rounds, or choose to fight to the death, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fasten the Rope around a glass gargoyle and slide down to the street below. The Rope is still fastened to the top of the wall and you must leave it there. (Remember to delete the Rope from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. ) You turn and head down the street. You have only gone a short way when you are alerted by a shout: an Elessi is calling to you. Without hesitation, you run away from him but the Elessi calls for the aid of others and soon a crowd of Elessin are in hot pursuit. You turn the first corner that you come to and find yourself running across a lawn of blue grass. You can see no hiding place. The cries of the Elessin draw closer as you reach an ornate fountain in the centre of the lawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to jump into the fountain, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to keep running, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You work your way down the steps of the palace and enter the avenue of crystal that leads from the Singing City. Moving at a painfully slow pace, you finally reach the grove of trees where your flying machine is hidden. You drag the statue on board and turn to the controls. The Ethetron rises up into the air and, using the Gyronome to guide you once more, you soon feel the strange tingling sensation that indicates that you are crossing the realms of the Daziarn.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect278"><link-text>Turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out the Gyronome. To your surprise it is still emitting its familiar, high-pitched note. You are further confused when you discover that the device continues to sound at the same volume wherever you point it. You depress the foot bar. The mist within the glass dome begins to swirl and its ghostly light grows <!--ERRTAG-RE-94429-->brighter, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94429--> there is no sensation of movement, even with the bar pressed all the way down to the floor. You fear that you are stranded&emdash;becalmed upon an alien sea.</p>
- <p>A thread-like line of white light in the distance gives you fresh hope. Your flesh begins to tingle&emdash;an unpleasant sensation that seems to be drawing the strength from your body (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The horizon of white light thickens until it splits the darkness in two, and yawns like an infernal chasm. Terrified, you hurtle towards the momentous shaft at an incredible speed.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The horizon of white light splits the darkness in two</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="622"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="622"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to try to slow your pace, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to continue at the same speed, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are wasting valuable <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points assaulting the door and decide to return your attention to the five Keys.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to try the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to try the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to try the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to try the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to try the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Master explains the route you must take towards a place called the Moaning Mountain. He goes on to reveal that in the side of the Moaning Mountain is a cavern and at the end of the cavern there is a <!--ERRTAG-RE-100193-->Gate out<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100193--> of the realm that leads to a place called the Vale of Peace. The people of the Vale are wise and friendly and will show you how to reach the Realm of the Moonstone.</p>
- <p>He then returns Tanith to <!--ERRTAG-RE-96703-->you, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96703--> your joy is subdued when the Master demands his terms: you may only leave the realm if the Jahksa accompanies you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more you begin the arduous climb. The decorations carved upon the crystal surface of the tower wall have become more intricate and difficult to negotiate. You pray that your luck will hold but it is not enough to save you. With a cry, you slip and fall, crashing to the ground far below.</p>
- <p>Your life and quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you fire at the leading bird. Your aim is good. With a distraught cry, the bird drops from the sky, streaming smoke behind it in a coiling plume.</p>
- <p>The remaining creatures appear undaunted by their fellow's plight and soon fall upon you. Clinging to the rail of the Ethetron, they strain their long necks to peck at you. The damaged Ethetron can barely support their weight and slowly but surely you are being dragged into the swirling mist below. One of the birds swoops in attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-bird</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gingerly, you set one foot on the first of the palace steps. Your muscles are screaming with the strain of carrying the statue. Suddenly, you trip and fall. You hear the terrified shouts of the Elessin gathered around as you and the statue tumble down the stairs.</p>
- <p>The statue hits the bottom with a resounding <onomatopoeia>crash</onomatopoeia> and the Threnogem rolls out from its mouth. With dismay you watch it rolling away. The Elessin scream in terror.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shaking your head, you convey to them that you do not wish to accompany them. They become gently insistent and one takes hold of your arm and gestures towards the city. The laughter subsides. The Elessin are unarmed but you are unsure of their intentions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to go with the Elessin, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to continue to refuse them, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you prefer to attack the Elessin with your Wizard's Staff and possess 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points or more, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Welcome to the realm of the impossible, Paradox, land of contradictions!</quote> booms a voice from overhead. <quote>What gift do you seek from the <!--ERRTAG-RA-104225-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-104225-->?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I seek a girl; her name is Tanith,</quote> you cry, <quote>and one who is named Oz-na-Mun.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>So be it!</quote> replies the <!--ERRTAG-RA-104225-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-104225-->. <quote>The bargain is struck. These things you shall have and then you must return to me and make payment.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can ask the nature of this <!--ERRTAG-RE-100594--><quote>payment</quote>, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100594--> find yourself standing upon firm ground, looking out across a vast quarry of red soil. Your Ethetron lies close at hand. On the other side of the quarry you can see smoke rising from a rough wooden shack. You push the nightmare visions from your brain and head towards the shack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Chaos-birds wheel around the becalmed Ethetron as Tanith chants over the Key. They move to <!--ERRTAG-RE-101244-->attack, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101244--> are thrown suddenly into a panic by the sight of a giant golden eagle, winging towards them.</p>
- <p>The fight is terrible to behold as the eagle tears and claws a bloody path through the Chaos-birds. Suddenly, the lifeless corpse of a dead Chaos-bird hurtles towards the craft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out the Pipe, place it to your lips, and blow. The Elessi laughs&emdash;he is protected against the effects of the weapon. Unaffected, he carries out his sentence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28"><link-text>Turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the wall of the tower and lay your hands upon its smooth surface. You concentrate and, eventually, a verse appears in your mind:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
-<quote>There is no door. You must climb the tower,
-<br />Or smite the wall with a Wizard's power.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to try to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to search for a door on the right side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to search for a door on the left side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to examine the crystal wall immediately below the metal plate that bears the inscription, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to attack the crystal wall with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out and pluck the jewel from the statue's mouth. Swiftly, you turn, ready to run but before you can escape, a distant sound reaches your ears. Quiet at first, it develops into a scream and begins to fill the palace. The awful sound is coming from the mouth of the statue and freezes you where you stand.</p>
- <p>The ground begins to tremble and cracks appear in the glass walls. You can hear the tinkling of shattering crystal. The hideous wail grows in volume and soon you cannot block out the sound even when you cover your ears.</p>
- <p>Within seconds you are crushed beneath shards of broken glass and debris. You have released the Screaming God and the Singing City is doomed.</p>
- <p>Your quest and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Again you refuse but they will not accept your refusal. Two of the Elessin grab at your arms, obviously intending to force you to accompany them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to go with the Elessin, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you wish to fight off the Elessin, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you are flying high in the air, there is very little chance that an earthbound spirit will be able to help you. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. If you wish, you may maintain your trance state and seek aid from one of the other Elemental spirits.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you desire the aid of the Fire Elemental, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you desire the aid of the Water Elemental, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you desire the aid of the Air Elemental, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to cease using Elemental Magic, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift your foot, decreasing the pressure on the bar and, hopefully, slowing the Ethetron. The white light is blinding: your head is swimming, your brain reeling, and your body trembling; lose a further 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first they are distant specks but they are moving towards you at high speed and soon you are able to distinguish details. You give an involuntary gasp: the creatures have oily, purple-black skins with slickly matted feathers; their eyes protrude like two swollen bruises from the sides of their heads and their cry is hoarse like the ringing of a cracked bell. The Ethetron moves <!--ERRTAG-RE-106632-->sluggishly<!--/ERRTAG-RE-106632--> as the very last of the grey mist seeps from its dome. You turn the ship towards the Trianon but the malformed birds (if birds they are) are gaining on you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The creatures have oily, purple-black skins with slickly matted feathers</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="599"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="599"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to attack one of the Chaos-birds at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to wait for the Chaos-birds to draw nearer, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aimlessly you wander through the city streets. After observing the Elessin for some time, you realize that your disguise is some sort of uniform. The whole city is very peaceful and the constant music very soothing but soon you notice that the music is changing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you regain control of the flying machine you begin to slow down. You make a rather bumpy landing in a field but both you and your craft survive it unharmed. You take out the Gyronome and its shrill call confirms that you are now in the Realm of the Singing City. Away to your left and in the distance the city glints beneath the warm sunlight. Suddenly you notice several figures heading in your direction, though they are still far off.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to hide yourself and the Ethetron, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to wait where you are, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect78-1-foot" idref="sect78-1"><p>As you are using your Power of Elementalism against the Chaos-birds, you should deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and send out the power of your thought to the Elemental plane.<a id="sect78-1" idref="sect78-1-foot" class="footnote" /> A raging wind blows around you, whipping the birds into confusion so that they are unable to attack. Unfortunately, you are now unable to manipulate the damaged craft and find yourself affected as badly as the Chaos-birds. A sudden gust sends you hurtling into the side of the Trianon and the sound of a collision fills your ears.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add the number you have picked to your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If the total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If the total is less than 9, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The music of the Singing City has changed, and is now a rhythmic accompaniment to the sound of many voices, singing and chanting. You follow the sound and come to a long avenue, paved with crystal stones. At the end of the avenue stands a gigantic palace, and at the foot of its grand staircase, are amassed a large crowd of Elessin, all singing in perfect unison. Standing before them is a man, robed in white and gold, with golden hair and blue eyes. In his left hand he holds a jewelled crozier. He seems to be conducting a religious ceremony or ritual. You guess that the Threnogem lies within the palace.</p>
- <p>Transfixed by the beauty of the Elessin's music, you wait for the ceremony to end, and at length, the crowd disperses and the man with the golden hair returns into the palace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to mount the steps and enter the palace, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to wait for nightfall, that you might investigate the palace in secret, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessin guards do not attack you immediately. Several fall dead under fire of your Wizard's Staff as you move like a whirlwind among their ranks. Soon, however, they overcome their awe and many place silver <!--ERRTAG-RA-115421-->pipes<!--/ERRTAG-RA-115421--> to their lips and blow. Suddenly, a terrible pain fills your head as the sound of the Elessin <!--ERRTAG-RA-115421-->pipes<!--/ERRTAG-RA-115421--> tears at your mind. With an anguished cry you fall to the ground and slip into unconsciousness.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drear has worked a subtle magic on your mind and soon you are totally under his control. He is an insane wanderer, an astral vagrant devoted to a purposeless life of journeying. Casting aside your Staff and Backpack you trek after Drear, doomed to follow in his nomadic footsteps <!--ERRTAG-RE-114958-->forever<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114958-->.</p>
- <p>Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith takes the Eagle Key and begins to chant. The Jahksa makes to attack but once more you successfully fend off his blows, for though he possesses a supernatural strength, you possess far greater fighting skill, aided by your Wizard's Staff. Before the Jahksa can attack again, an eagle's cry fills the air. It screams towards him and a look of panic contorts his face. The eagle is an awesome enemy and the Jahksa chooses not to fight it. Rapidly, his body grows transparent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ethetron is thrown from the sky, flinging you and Tanith to your deaths.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ethetron rocks and lurches as you try to steer her in tight curves and turns to evade the looming creatures of the mist. It is hard to control and the cracked glass dome of the craft glows feebly.</p>
- <p>Miraculously you pass beyond the monsters. You look back to see them disappearing into the mist and you realize that they are more like plants, fixed and rooted but able to attack anything within range.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spot a grove of trees nearby and drag the Ethetron into it, covering the craft with twisted deadwood and branches. Then you crouch within the grove and wait. Peering out, you watch as four people approach. Each is dressed in a short, white toga; their hair is blonde and they have strange, circular ears. They are laughing and talking in a language you cannot understand but you cannot help but notice the soft, flute-like quality of their light, musical voices.</p>
- <p>These people are Elessin, citizens of the Singing City. They are searching methodically and thoroughly, without hurrying, and, as they draw closer to the grove, you realize that they will soon discover your hiding place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you have 4 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points remaining and wish to ambush the Elessin and attack them with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to wait and do nothing, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fly through the mind-numbing visions shifting constantly around your craft. Eventually, the unrestrained madness of the sky gives way to a more sober panorama as a vast sea unfolds beneath you. The multi-coloured waters writhe and roll and monstrous half-shapes pierce its oily surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not have <!--ERRTAG-RE-115368-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115368-->, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your Staff held in both hands, you brace yourself for the eagle's first strike as it swoops down at an incredible speed. The golden bird crashes into you with a force that knocks you off your feet. In a terrifying confusion of slashing talons, flapping wings and the crazed pecking of its hooked beak, you struggle desperately to fend off the giant bird.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Eagle</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you are still alive after three rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can feel the presence of the Air Elementals that the Jahksa has already summoned as they twist and coil around you. You must choose between summoning more winds to blow against the magical storm, or trying to master those that surround you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you wish to master the winds that surround you, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to summon your own powers of the air, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step on the flagstone and, to your relief, no sword drops. The stairway is ahead and to the left, the tower entrance is behind, and the small doorway is to the left and behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to step on the flagstone that is ahead and to the left of you and bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to step forward on to a flagstone bearing two swords, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to step on the flagstone that is diagonally behind you in front of the small door and bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out the Copper Coin and give it to the guard who regards it closely. Thinking that you have <!--ERRTAG-RE-117992-->successfully<!--/ERRTAG-RE-117992--> bribed the Elessi, you turn to walk away. Immediately the Elessi guard grabs your arm. Your heart misses a beat but the Elessi is smiling as he returns the Copper Coin to you. You realize that the coin is not the currency of the Singing City but a kind of pass key or identity disc.</p>
- <p>Anxious to place as much distance as possible between you and the guard, you turn and walk into the city at a brisk pace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You begin the arduous climb once again. There are many intricate decorations carved on the crystal wall of the tower that make your climb harder but your skill is great and your luck good and, with a sigh of relief, you eventually reach the top. Pausing for only a moment to catch your breath and rest your aching limbs, you then begin to haul on the Rope as Tanith scrambles towards you and she is soon at your side. You turn to survey your new surroundings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up the heavy statue. Terrified, the Elessin fall back, looking at you with outrage and fear in their eyes. Staggering beneath the weight of the statue, you pick your way slowly across the hall. The Elessin do not try to stop you; they fear the statue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 16 or less, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is more than 16, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The three remaining Elessin each take silver <!--ERRTAG-RE-124588-->pipes<!--/ERRTAG-RE-124588--> and place them between their lips. They blow in unison and a terrible screaming sound tears into your brain. You gasp with pain and fall to the ground, covering your ears in a desperate attempt to block out the terrible noise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately, you are standing in the court of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-124820-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-124820-->. The high walls ripple with light as the strange architecture of the Master's hall changes constantly. In the centre of the hall, upon an obsidian throne, is seated the <!--ERRTAG-RA-124820-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-124820--> himself, ruler of the Realm of the Paradox. He makes a disturbing sight: a giant over thirty feet in height, his facial features and characteristics are in a state of constant flux, continually melting into new and hideous guises. You glimpse dark and loathsome creatures, beasts and beings of indescribable horror, writhing within this awesome god.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Chaos-master continually melts into new and hideous guises</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="646"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="646"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Welcome to the Master's court!</quote> he bellows. <quote>Allow me to introduce my guests.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly a dark-robed figure walks into the hall. He wears a hood and carries a black staff. Following immediately behind is Tanith. She gives you a brave smile.</p>
- <p><quote>May I present the Wizard, Grey Star.</quote></p>
- <p>A deep dread stirs in your heart. Suddenly, the robed figure pulls back his hood to reveal your own face staring at you. <quote>Welcome, brother,</quote> says your twin. <quote>I have long looked forward to this meeting.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You point back through the gate in the direction you have just come. He gives you a puzzled look and utters a string of unintelligible phrases. You stand frozen to the spot, mouth agape. He reaches out his hand and speaks again and suddenly you realize that he is asking you for something. His voice becomes harsh as he is forced to repeat himself and he fixes you with a suspicious glare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to show him the Glass Rod, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to show him the Parchment, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to show him the Gold Coin, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you wish to show him the Silver Coin, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to show him the Copper Coin, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you try to wrest control of the winds from the Jahksa. Rigidly, he stands at the far end of the craft, testing his power against yours. The storm howls and the little craft shakes and swerves wildly. The ferocious winds carry the ship along but the Jahksa still exerts control over the storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to expend another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to cease your struggle for control of the storm, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to attack the Jahksa with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To break down the door with the might of your Wizard's Staff, follow the usual rules of combat, consulting the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a> as if the door were an opponent. Disregard any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Door</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect61">You may cease attacking the door at any time; <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you continue and break down the door, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Chaos-birds circle ominously overhead. Tanith chants over the key. She summons up a small, furry spider no bigger than her hand and gives you a desperate and helpless glance. Swiftly the birds attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up your Wizard's Staff and hold it poised above the Elessi leader's head. You have beaten him into submission. The palace is full of <!--ERRTAG-RE-125392-->Elessin<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125392--> <!--ERRTAG-RE-125450-->guards, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125450--> they stay back fearful to act while their leader is threatened.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to slay the Elessi leader, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to attack the Elessin guards, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to make a grab for the statue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously, you approach the Crystal Tower. You can see no door but, a little above head height, there is a metal plate. Inscribed upon the plate is some writing but the letters are unfamiliar.</p>
- <p><quote>Can you read it?</quote> asks Tanith.</p>
- <p><quote>No,</quote> you reply. Yet, as you speak, the lettering is slowly transforming and soon you find that you can read the inscription:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
-<quote>From south of here, to west and north,
-<br />Then east and south once more,
-<br />A circle's motion rings the charm
-<br />That finds the Vanishing Door.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You ponder the strange words and try to unravel their meaning. 'A riddle?' queries Tanith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to search for a door on the left side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to search for a door on the right side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you summon up a mage wind of your own. The increased turbulence causes the craft to rock crazily from side to side but has little effect on the Elementals summoned by the Jahksa.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to call a halt to your spell of Elementalism, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to increase the power of your spell, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the red jewel and focus your power upon it. The Gem begins to glow and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you reach out and close the Elessi guard's senses. As he stares blankly ahead, you steal past him and into the palace unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your eyes closed you concentrate and create an enchantment to place in the minds of the Elessin. You convince them that they have completed their search and suggest that they return to their city. Unaware that they have been charmed, they obey. The use of this spell has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The maddening chaos surrounding you is too much to bear; your mind lacks the strength of will to resist the distorted reality. In a short time you lose control of your mind and the Ethetron plunges into the undulating hills below.</p>
- <p>Your adventure is over. Your quest and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are led to a high-ceilinged chamber lit by a curious, pulsing light. The room is filled with strange, ornate machines of gleaming metal. Lights flicker and you hear a throbbing hum and a continual, metallic, mechanical ring. Several Academicians tend the machines, pushing buttons and pulling levers, though to what purpose you cannot guess.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star, Tanith&emdash;allow me to introduce you to Crabkey, one of our greatest and most ingenious inventors.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description><quote>Allow me to introduce Crabkey, one of our most ingenious inventors</quote></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You recognize the shabby man who turns to greet you; he was the man who sat in the armchair when you first entered the chamber of the Academicians. In the strange lurid glow of the laboratory his shadowed, bulging eyes make him appear even more sinister than before. <quote>We meet again,</quote> you say uncomfortably.</p>
- <p>Crabkey stares at you without speaking. Spittlethrift breaks the silence: <quote>Mr <!--ERRTAG-RE-130648-->Crabkey is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-130648--> the inventor of the machine that will enable you to journey to the Realm of the Singing City, <!--ERRTAG-RE-134180-->aren't you, Crabkey<!--/ERRTAG-RE-134180-->, old chap?</quote> Crabkey continues to stare at you insolently. With a slow blink of his huge eyes, he makes an unintelligible sound in the back of his throat and nods.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, yes,</quote> says Spittlethrift half to himself. <quote>Come now, young Wizard and pretty mistress Tanith, come see his wonderful creation.</quote> Mounted on a small dais in the centre of the laboratory is a most unusual machine. <quote>This,</quote> says Spittlethrift proudly, <quote>is the Ethetron, the flying machine that will carry young Grey Star through the realms of the Daziarn, and to the Singing City to fetch our prize.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> says Tanith suddenly, <quote>and what of me?</quote></p>
- <p>Spittlethrift falters and emits an <!--ERRTAG-RE-131603-->embarrassed<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131603--> cough, <quote>Ah, yes&ellips; <!--ERRTAG-RE-135637-->well&ellips;<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135637--></quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, what of Tanith?</quote> you demand angrily.</p>
- <p><quote>The girl stays here,</quote> says Crabkey, speaking for the first time in a harsh, rasping voice, <quote>to make sure you keep your part of the bargain and do not fail to return.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>She will be perfectly safe, I assure you,</quote> says Spittlethrift, apologetically. <quote>But surely you understand our position. What is to stop you flying away and never returning?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And if I refuse?</quote> you snap at Spittlethrift.</p>
- <p><quote>We will not allow you to use the Ethetron or show you how to fly it,</quote> retorts Crabkey. <quote>You will be doomed to remain within the Neverness for all eternity. You will&emdash;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You will, on the other hand,</quote> Spittlethrift interjects hastily, <quote>receive the Ethetron as a gift from us when you return&emdash;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>With the Threnogem,</quote> Crabkey interrupts once more, ignoring a glare of warning from Spittlethrift, who has now begun to sweat profusely. <quote>And we will return Mistress Tanith to you, of course,</quote> he finishes. Tanith clenches her fists and glares furiously at the two little men. Both step back a little from her fiery gaze. <quote>Know this, little man,</quote> she hisses, prodding Spittlethrift in the chest with one, long-nailed finger. <quote>I am not without power. If you seek to deceive us&ellips; I'll crush you like the toad that you are! I am a Shadakine Wytch, not a mere girl to be hoarded or bartered like a piece of spare luggage!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, yes, of course,</quote> says Spittlethrift, wiping his brow with the back of his shaking hand. <quote>I understand.</quote></p>
- <p>You smile quietly to yourself. Tanith's angry bluff has shaken both Spittlethrift and Crabkey. Though Tanith does possess many uncanny powers taught to her while in the service of Mother Magri, a powerful Wytch in the service of the Shadakine Empire, her skills lie chiefly in her mastery of animals and nature and in a bravery that surpasses many warriors of greater stature. Tanith turns to you, the fire dying in her wild, green eyes. <quote>Accept their offer, Grey Star,</quote> she says. <quote>I do not fear this over-fed worm, or that slinking weasel.</quote></p>
- <p>You sense that Tanith is far more afraid than she admits but the success of the quest is as important to her as it is to you and without the Ethetron it is unlikely that you will succeed. <quote>Very well,</quote> you say. <quote>Show me how the machine works. What must I do?</quote></p>
- <p>Sullenly, Crabkey shows you the machine. Spittlethrift, pale and perspiring, remains silent, his chubby hands fluttering nervously at his side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116"><link-text>Turn to 116.</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect106-1-foot" idref="sect106-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ferocious wolf falls dead at your feet, magical fire still blazing from the fatal wound that you have inflicted.</p>
- <p>To enter the Crystal Tower you must choose from the remaining Keys.<a id="sect106-1" idref="sect106-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you choose the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you choose the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect107-1-foot" idref="sect107-1"><p>If the Elessi leader has been holding your Wizard's Staff until now, you can now take it back.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessi leader lies dead at your feet.<a id="sect107-1" idref="sect107-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Stunned by the unexpected loss of their leader, the guards look on in horror. You must act quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to attack the Elessin guards, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to pick up the statue, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately the Chaos-birds swarm towards you. The first flies at Tanith and instinctively you rush to protect her.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-bird</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you win, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you touch the ground, the flying machine shatters and disintegrates. The impact kills you and your torn and broken body is thrown with the other shattered fragments across the cloud plane of the Neverness.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ready for combat and eager to maintain the element of surprise, you burst into the room. You enter a room full of mirrors and devoid of life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and concentrate and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you create your illusion. A shout attracts the guard's attention and quickly he descends the palace stairway to investigate. Silently, you ascend the stairs and enter the palace before the guard returns to his post.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Summoning all your <!--ERRTAG-RE-138019-->strength, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-138019-->, at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you hurl a powerful blast at the Crystal Tower. The white light of your Staff hits the wall squarely but its magical fire is scattered by the wall's resistance.</p>
- <p><quote>This is hopeless,</quote> says Tanith. <quote>There must be some other way into the tower.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to try to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you prefer to examine one of the many black holes in the cloud plane, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to examine the section of the wall immediately below the metal plate that bears the inscription, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk to the end of the corridor and through an archway of incandescent light. You are momentarily blinded and when you can see again you find yourself facing the door once more. The Jahksa roars with laughter. <quote>The great Shianti Wizard&ellips; fooled by a Shianti illusion, hah!</quote></p>
- <p>Again you try to enter but again you find yourself outside the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to attack the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to enter one of the doors along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on the formation of a magical shield, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk to the other end of the avenue and arrive at the foot of a large stairway that leads into the glass palace. It is the most impressive building in the city and you are puzzled to find it completely empty. You wonder if it is a temple, where people gather only at certain times, or perhaps it is a sacred place and only a select few are allowed within its walls. Your instincts tell you that you are sure to discover the Threnogem here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to mount the steps and enter the palace, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to wait for nightfall, so that you might investigate the palace unseen, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><thought>This was once the realm of the Demon, Steth-Amon, a master of sound,</thought> the <!--ERRTAG-RE-140985-->Guardian<!--/ERRTAG-RE-140985--> recounts. <thought>We, the Elessin, were created his slave singers, a choir of the damned. His was the music of dissonance; it could drive men insane or lure them and possess their minds. Long we laboured in his service. However, we sought the beauty of harmonious music, the melody of accord and we conceived of a plan to overthrow our lord. We created the Threnogem, a tool of silence, for without silence music has no meaning. Then, while he slumbered, we dropped the Threnogem into his open mouth and silenced him, robbing him of his power over us. He froze in the position you see him now, for the statue is Steth-Amon, mastered by the silence of the Threnogem. That you seek to take the statue from our realm is pleasing to us, for all our power has been devoted to giving life to the Threnogem and keeping Steth-Amon silent. If the Threnogem is removed from his mouth the demon will be released. All we ask is that you do not remove the Threnogem while you are in our domain. If you wish, we will help you carry the statue to your flying machine.</thought></p>
- <p>You agree to the Guardian's offer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ethetron is quite unlike anything you have seen before. It has a railed platform, and is shaped like a saucer, except that its stern is pointed like a lizard's tail. It bears a large glass dome in its centre. Passing through the top of the dome is a single black shaft like the mast of a sailing ship. The single sail resembles a giant bat's wing and is made of a strange material that shimmers like water and looks like metal but is like fabric to the touch. A closer inspection of the glass dome reveals that it contains a swirling, grey-white mist.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Ethetron's tail is like a lizard's, its sails like bats' wings</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="628"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="628"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>It is the raw stuff of the Daziarn, unformed power for the craft,</quote> explains Crabkey. <quote>Without it, the craft would fall from the sky. To steer,</quote> he continues, <quote>you must operate this lever&emdash;pull to climb, push to dive, left and right as normal. To draw more power from the glass dome you must press this metal bar at your feet; to slow down, release it. If you apply no pressure, the craft will remain where it is; if you push the lever to the left or right without power, the craft will spin on its axis. Beware, these controls are very sensitive. You need apply very little pressure to make the craft change its course.</quote></p>
- <p>When Crabkey is satisfied that you understand the controls, he introduces you to another Academician, Slypate, who hands you a shining sphere of red and yellow metal. <quote>This is a Gyronome. There is no north, east, west or south in the plane of the Daziarn, nor is there time as you perceive it,</quote> says Slypate. <quote>The only way of finding the Singing City is with the aid of this device. When you draw it out, it will emit a sound if you are heading for the Singing City. The louder the note, the surer your course. To return to the Crystal Tower, the Gyronome must be absolutely silent. It is very accurate: I invented it myself,</quote> he says with pride. You take the Special Item and place it in your pocket. (Remember to mark the Gyronome on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Soon you are ready to leave. The Academicians offer you the choice of the following <!--ERRTAG-RA-148465-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-148465--> to aid you in your quest. (Remember that you may carry only <!--ERRTAG-RE-148584-->two Weapons<!--/ERRTAG-RE-148584--> and a maximum of eight <!--ERRTAG-RA-148465-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-148465--> in your Backpack.)</p>
- <ul>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-144901-->Short Sword<!--/ERRTAG-RE-144901--> (carried in a sheath worn at your belt)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-145027-->Length of strong Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145027--> (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-145125-->Potion of Healing<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145125--> (restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed; carried in Backpack)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-145293-->Backpack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145293--></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-145363-->Spear<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145363--> (carried in the hand)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>As you climb into the Ethetron, the massive double windows of the laboratory are drawn open. The restraining ropes are untied and the glass dome of the flying machine glows with a ghostly light. You coax the Ethetron forwards and you glide gently through the open windows and out of the Crystal Tower. You look out across the bleak, featureless expanse of the Neverness with its strange, sunless sky and vast plane of unending cloud. You press lightly on the foot bar and the machine gathers speed. You take out the Gyronome. It is silent at first, then as your machine speeds away from the Crystal Tower it begins to emit a tone. You move the instrument around in the air and find, to your surprise, that its tone becomes louder when you point it towards your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to fly at a lower altitude, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it to guide you, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it on the Gyronome, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a lull in the fighting and the Jahksa steps back. Poised to place the killing blow, you look on in frustration as the dark twin swiftly fades, his body becoming ever more transparent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect118-1-foot" idref="sect118-1"><p>If you have already opened this door, you do not need to do it again. If you have opened the door but chosen <em>not</em> to step through it, you can now choose to do so (turn to <a idref="sect125">125</a>), or to walk back to the large stairway (turn to <a idref="sect239">239</a>). If you have both opened and ventured inside the door, you must turn to <a idref="sect239">239</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step on the flagstone: nothing happens. You are now standing before the wooden door. You try the handle and find that the door is locked.<a id="sect118-1" idref="sect118-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to blast the door with your Wizard's <!--ERRTAG-RE-147044-->Staff, <link-text>turn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147044--> to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you have a prepared <!--ERRTAG-RE-147195-->Vial of Ezeran Acid<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147195-->, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy and possess some <!--ERRTAG-RE-147390-->Ezeran Salts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147390-->, <!--ERRTAG-RE-147446-->Sulphur<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147446-->, <!--ERRTAG-RE-147504-->Saltpetre<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147504-->, and a <!--ERRTAG-RE-147576-->Pestle and Mortar<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147576-->, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to use it to open the door, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both you and Tanith make your way to another of the strange gaps in the cloud plane only to discover that the many holes in the plane are alike, differing only in size.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to enter one of these black holes, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to continue towards the Crystal Tower, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you hurl a bolt of magical flame at the guard that illuminates the night. With a scream of pain, the guard falls dead. Without hesitation, you make a dash for the palace entrance as distant shouts reveal that the alarm is being raised.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wander the city until it grows dark and then make your way back to the palace. Hiding in the shadows, you observe the palace guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to attack the guard at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you have a Mind Gem and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-149885-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149885--> of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-149665-->Otherwise, you will have to<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149665--> try to sneak up behind the guard, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If the number you have picked is 6&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head across the cloud plane towards the hunched figure. The man turns and looks at you, apparently unsurprised by your sudden appearance. He is dressed in grey, tattered rags and, with a start, you see that the flesh of his hands and face is almost transparent, revealing the veins, bones, and tissue that lie beneath his skin.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The hunched figure is dressed in grey rags and the flesh of his hands and face is almost transparent</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="635"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="635"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>No peace. No peace,</quote> he mutters to himself. <quote>So many interruptions&ellips; the passage of strangers, asking directions and breaking the silence.</quote> He gazes at you with a sad but steady stare. <quote>I am Drear, wanderer between worlds,</quote> he says, as if reciting a litany. <quote>Sailor upon pointless seas, traveller of timeless lands, born of a world grown old and tired. You are in the Neverness, my children, the unformed and unclaimed void of the Daziarn, where no one yet resides.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What of yonder building?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>The Crystal Tower, home of the Academicians, scientists and scholars from another plane. They are mad, my friend. Do not waste your time with them. Instead, follow me and find peace in the calm of wandering; shed all purpose and responsibility. Come, follow! I seek the salvation of silence, the tranquillity of endlessness.</quote></p>
- <p>He beckons insistently and, with a glazed expression, Tanith steps forward. Persuasive, inviting, and increasingly irresistible, Drear's hypnotic voice pulls at your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you wish to follow Drear, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to turn away, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a flurry of savage blows you engage the Jahksa.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Jahksa</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you are still alive after three rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door disintegrates. With Tanith by your side, you enter a large, circular room. A wide, ornate stairway ascends at the far side of the room. The only other visible exit is a door to your left. On the walls are hung many strange paintings and the flagstones of this gloomy hall bear many strange designs; the one on which you are standing bears an inscription.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to look at the paintings, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to examine the floor, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to climb the stairway, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to enter the door on your left, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk down the stairs into a dimly lit cellar full of rusty armour. You have entered the tower's store room and the weapons of countless adventurers lie corroding at your feet. A tangle of cobwebs brushes against your face as your attention is caught by the glint of new metal. A closer examination reveals a large <!--ERRTAG-RE-153806-->Bunch of Keys<!--/ERRTAG-RE-153806-->. If you wish to keep the <!--ERRTAG-RE-153894-->Bunch of Keys, mark it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-153894--> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item<!--ERRTAG-DE-154041/-->.</p>
- <p>You climb back up the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call down to Tanith, who nods that she is ready. Your muscles are tired from the exertions of your climb and, panting heavily, you begin to pull on the Rope. Tanith is already overburdened by the added weight of your Backpack and her climb up the tower is made more difficult by the swinging of your Wizard's Staff. Suddenly, she gives a terrible scream and falls away from the tower. Her abrupt departure from the Rope jerks you from the ledge and you plummet to the ground after her. Neither of you survives the fall.</p>
- <p>Your quest has failed and your adventure is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer into the gloom of the wooden hut. Two figures are sitting in the centre of the room: a gaunt-faced man in rags and Tanith. Your heart leaps with joy. <quote>At last!</quote> you cry. <quote>I've found you!</quote> Tanith and the gaunt-faced man turn and look at you with grief-stricken faces. They edge back to a corner of the room as you approach.</p>
- <p><quote>Get back!</quote> Tanith screams. <quote>Go away; leave me alone.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But&ellips; Tanith&ellips;</quote> you falter, <quote>it's me, Grey Star, your friend.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You're no friend of mine, evil one!</quote> she spits. <quote>You serve Shasarak now. You told me that yourself in the Crystal Tower.</quote> She and the man huddle together, cowering in fear. <quote>Get out! Get out!</quote> she screams hysterically, throwing a cup at your head.</p>
- <p>She believes that the Black Wizard, who bears your likeness, is truly you and that you have fallen into the service of evil. No matter how hard you try to explain, she will not understand. You feel sure that her fear is unnatural; for even if she does believe you have turned to evil, you have never before known her to exhibit such fear. She must have been placed under a powerful spell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to speak to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-162223-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RE-162223-->, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess a Mind Gem and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to try to rid Tanith of the enchantment which holds her, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue down the long passage, your footsteps ringing on the marble floor. You can feel another's presence nearby but can see no one. A milky glow emanates from the end of the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to enter one of the rooms at the side of the passage, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Ethetron is torn from the air by a strange, eyeless creature. Its huge, razor-sharp teeth close around the flying machine.</p>
- <p>Your quest and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Skilfully, you manoeuvre the Ethetron and align it with the nearest black hole. Taking a deep breath, your heart beating with anticipation, you plunge into the darkness of the unknown.</p>
- <p>First there is silence; then, fear. You fight back a rising wave of panic in the absolute blackness, absolute silence, absolute stillness. You cannot return the way you came.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you wish to try to cast a light with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to chant the Shianti prayer of mind discipline to beat back the rising wave of madness that you feel engulfing your reason, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to take out the Gyronome, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step back and cease fighting. You sense that the Jahksa is trying to wear you out. He smiles a knowing smile that makes your flesh creep.</p>
- <p><quote>Won't fight, eh?</quote> he says and, with a sudden flick of his staff, he sends an arc of fire pluming towards Tanith. She throws herself to the ground, escaping injury. The Jahksa is doing all he can to delay and divert you from your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you possess the Eagle Key of the Crystal Tower or have given it to Tanith to carry, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you possess the Wolf Key or have given it to Tanith to carry, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you possess the Dragon Key or have given it to Tanith to carry, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you do not have any of these Keys or do not wish to use them, <!--ERRTAG-RE-164888-->you are forced to fight the Jahksa. <link-text>Turn to 123</link-text><!--/ERRTAG-RE-164888-->.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the inscription once again, certain that it contains the secret of the missing door.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
-<quote>From south of here, to west and north,
-<br />Then east and south once more,
-<br />A circle's motion rings the charm
-<br />That finds the Vanishing Door.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to search for a door on the left side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to search for a door on the right side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you decide to examine the crystal wall immediately below the metal plate that bears the inscription, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A final blow with your Staff and the creature falls dead at your feet. But there are many more of them swooping around your head and dragging at the Ethetron.</p>
- <p>Tanith stands by your side. If you have a weapon, you may give it to Tanith to help her defend herself. If you do, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the remainder of your combats against the Chaos-birds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If not, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I ask no favour and will pay no price,</quote> you tell the <!--ERRTAG-RE-168224-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168224-->.</p>
- <p><quote>So be it. But you will never leave this realm until you pay the price.</quote></p>
- <p>There is silence. Where once there were myriad illusions and visions there is now only a vast sea, which stretches endlessly below; multi-coloured, writhing and rolling, it conceals fearsome half-shapes. And there is no horizon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not have this Power or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push the steering lever forward but, due to your inexperience, you push too hard and suddenly the flying machine lurches into a dive. Your stomach knots with fear as you plummet towards the ground with increasing speed. The shrill tone of the Gyronome becomes a shrieking in your ears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you wish to pull back the steering lever and increase the pressure on the foot bar, drawing more power, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to pull back the steering lever and decrease the pressure on the foot bar, using less power, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to pull the lever left, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to pull the lever right, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to continue heading in the direction indicated by the Gyronome, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessi guard takes the Silver Coin. He returns it with a shrug, says something, and then returns to his post at the entrance to the palace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have a Copper Coin and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you have a Parchment and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a Glass Rod and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The eagle is severely injured by the flame of your Wizard's Staff but it remains determined to fight you. Making an abrupt turn in mid-air, the gigantic bird falls upon you in a flurry of clawing talons, flapping wings and wildly incessant pecking. Desperately, you try to fend off the attack with your Staff.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Eagle</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point but this time you feel the balance of power shift in your favour. Before your enemy is able to pour extra force into his <!--ERRTAG-RE-165742-->counterspell<!--/ERRTAG-RE-165742--> you order the wind spirits away. At the abrupt change in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-165856-->force<!--/ERRTAG-RE-165856--> of the wind the Ethetron lurches violently and, as you struggle with the controls, the Jahksa staggers backwards. Tanith seizes her chance and, rushing furiously, she runs headlong into the Jahksa and heaves him over the rails. You both give a triumphant shout of joy and you quickly bring the Ethetron under control.</p>
- <p>As you draw closer to the Moaning Mountain you soon locate the cavern in its side and, with some skilful manoeuvring, you line up the ship with the yawning cavern mouth.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You soon locate the cavern in the side of the Moaning Mountain</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="643"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="643"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your pounding heart beats so loud that you fear the Elessi will hear it. He does not and, with capable ease, you strike the guard a blow to the base of his skull that renders him unconscious. You chance a cautious glance into the darkness before running into the palace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Though dangerously close to the ground, the craft glides smoothly out of its dive as you pull back on the lever. Your heart is pounding and, still shaken, you ease back the foot bar once the Ethetron is level once again. You are perhaps less than twenty feet above the ground and you notice that the Gyronome is piping even more loudly now that you are flying so low.</p>
- <p>In the distance looms the shadow of the Crystal Tower surrounded by black holes&emdash;the result of the Academicians' mining of the raw material of the Neverness. How are you to reach the Realm of the Singing City? Should you fly into the ground as the Gyronome suggests, or through one of the black holes of the cloud plane?</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to enter a black hole, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to fly into the ground, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you wish to gain altitude, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith is summoning the creature of the Key from the Crystal Tower. Before the Jahksa can act, the spirit of the giant wolf leaps at him, throwing him to the ground. But even as he falls his body becomes transparent as he escapes from this realm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you release your grip on the storm the craft lurches violently. The wind is so powerful that it carries the Ethetron along in its wake but the little craft will not take much more of this punishment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to attack the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk around the tower and soon find yourself back where you started. To your surprise, there now stands a door where before there was only a blank section of wall. Tanith looks at you, incredulous. <quote>Strange sorcery is at work here,</quote> she says. You nod in agreement.</p>
- <p>The large, iron-shod door stands tall and uninviting. You try the handle and find, as you expected, that the door is locked. You notice that there is a keyhole and, hanging on five hooks alongside the door, are five Keys. Each Key is fashioned in the shape of a beast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to try the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to try the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to try the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to try the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to try the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to read the inscription above the door, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to strike the door with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect144-1-foot" idref="sect144-1"><p>There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. This appears to be an oversight which is not easily correctable.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect144-1" idref="sect144-1-foot" class="footnote" />As you pick your way through the rubble and scorched timber you see an old woman kneeling in the ashes searching for items that have survived the fire. As you walk over to her, she looks up with a start, her face contorted with fear.</p>
- <p><quote>You&ellips; you&ellips; have come back,</quote> she whimpers, and scrambles to her feet and rushes away. You wander through the village for some time, generating the same response in all you meet. You decide to move on and find another village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you stalk the guard, but his keen ears detect a movement and he whirls round and spies you creeping in the shadows. Instantly he raises a silver <!--ERRTAG-RE-178663-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178663--> to his lips and blows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you call up your Power of Prophecy. The Jahksa is in the Trianon. You spin round to see him leaning against one of the walls, the familiar sneer playing across his features&emdash;your features.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Gyronome does not lie, but your Power of Prophecy is unable to reveal anything else from the realm you inhabit. Probing into the near future, you see little more than your attempt to reach ground level. Have you <!--ERRTAG-RE-172924-->foreseen<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172924--> your own death? The use of this Magical Power cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to fly lower, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it on the Gyronome, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect148-1-foot" idref="sect148-1"><p>As you are using your Wizard's Staff against the Jahksa, you should deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The raging wind helps the Ethetron to stay airborne without power and, while the Jahksa is in a trance state communing with the Elementals, you take up your Staff. It is difficult to take accurate aim because of the violent movements of the craft and yet, with remarkable calmness and precision, you fire a direct hit into the Jahksa's chest.<a id="sect148-1" idref="sect148-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He leaps back and, with magical flames still smouldering in the remains of his robe, he staggers towards you. Without hesitation, Tanith rushes at the Jahksa and thrusts him over the rail. She gives you a look of triumph and you cannot resist a cheer.</p>
- <p>The storm blows itself out and quickly you bring the Ethetron back on course. You soon reach the Moaning Mountain and locate the cavern. With some skilful manoeuvring, you line up the ship with the opening and enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and concentrate on the near future. There is no immediate danger in the room of mirrors; it is what lies beyond that should cause you to be wary. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect150-1-foot" idref="sect150-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are already familiar with Tanith's power over beasts, learned when she served Mother Magri, the Shadakine Wytch. You pray that the alien nature of the Daziarn does not hamper her skill. As the giant eagle attacks you, she steps forward and calls out with a shrill voice, <quote>Katta sheen, suono kow!</quote></p>
- <p>With a cry of frustration, the eagle releases its grip.</p>
- <p>You let out a sigh of relief as it climbs into the featureless sky and disappears from view.</p>
- <p>If you now wish to keep the Eagle Key, mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<!--ERRTAG-DE-175943/--> You must choose from the remaining Keys; only one will open the door to the Crystal Tower.<a id="sect150-1" idref="sect150-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you choose the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you choose the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a frown, the Elessi guard returns the Copper Coin and ushers you down the steps, away from the palace. You decide it would be prudent to wait until nightfall before trying to slip into the palace unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121"><link-text>Turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-176907-->point, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-176907--> touch the Gyronome with your mind. The device is not magical but mechanical. Reaching out for a trace of its previous owner, Slypate, you see a vision of the old Academician working on his invention with loving care. There is nothing evil about the device. Why then does the Gyronome point to the ground?</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to fly lower, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The beast roars and speeds towards you at an alarming pace. It rears its large horned head and bares its yellow fangs, preparing to blast <!--ERRTAG-RE-177792-->dragon-fire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-177792--> at you. The penetrating stare of its old, veined eyes fills you with dread.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, Tanith steps forward. <quote>Katta sai, juno keese,</quote> she shouts, speaking the words of command that give mastery over all beasts to the Wytches of Shadaki. The dragon slows in mid-flight, hovers and finally settles its great bulk on the ground. It bows its huge head meekly to Tanith and makes to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to speak with the dragon, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take careful aim and fire at the Jahksa, using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. However, he has seen you and raises his staff to fend off the bolt of flame.</p>
- <p><quote>Many thanks, brother,</quote> he shouts, <quote>for feeding the fire.</quote></p>
- <p>You realize the truth of what he says. He is tricking you into behaving like an enemy of the Vale people. Without their help you will never find the Gate that leads to the realm of the Moonstone. It is important that you show these people that you are their friend.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to engage the Jahksa in personal combat, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gulping a deep breath, you jump to the ground. You land heavily and a stab of pain runs up your leg: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Fortunately, the injury is not serious and you find you are able to walk with little difficulty. You enter a busy street and mix with a crowd of Elessin. Your disguise ensures that you are not challenged as you walk through the city, searching for a clue to the whereabouts of the Threnogem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you do not have this Power, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are already well versed in the ways of illusions and enchantments and, although half the strange, chaotic sights are enough to drive a man insane, you are able to challenge the illusion and dispel it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your heart thumping against your ribs you rush past the guard. He shouts some kind of insult at your back but does nothing. You breathe a sigh of relief and enter the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At last you come to the Moaning Mountain. You find the cavern and, after some careful manoeuvring, you edge the flying machine forward into the depths of the lonely peak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Heedless of the flames, you climb on to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-181681-->rooftop<!--/ERRTAG-RE-181681--> close to where the Jahksa stands. <quote>So!</quote> he exclaims. <quote>It's sport you want.</quote></p>
- <p>He whirls his staff around his head and, with a bloodcurdling yell, aims straight for your legs as you balance on the narrow roof. Swiftly, you parry, incandescent sparks flying where your staves make impact. The Jahksa is beginning to weaken and a powerful blow sends him reeling back along the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pick up the road out of sight of the poor survivors and follow it to the next village. This village is also ablaze. No one attempts to put out the fire; instead, everyone stares at a figure dancing maniacally on the roof of a house. It is a familiar and disturbing sight: Jahksa. Even now he is hurling bolts of magical flame into the thatched and wooden <!--ERRTAG-RE-182734-->roofs<!--/ERRTAG-RE-182734--> of the village houses.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Everyone stares at a figure dancing maniacally on the roof of the house</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="641"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="641"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you wish to attack the Jahksa at long range, <link-text>turn <!--ERRTAG-RE-182908-->to 154<!--/ERRTAG-RE-182908--></link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unsure of the correct decision and hopeful that the future will offer you some guidance, you decide to use your Power of Prophecy. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you send your thoughts forward in time. You sense that there is great danger in the Keys, though you are unable to determine its exact nature. The wrong choice could be fatal. A vision of the metal plate above the door forms in your mind; a vital clue lies hidden in the words inscribed upon it. You break your trance to consider your next course of action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to try the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to try the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to try the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to try the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to try the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to read the inscription above the door, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to strike the door with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Grey Star, look!</quote> cries Tanith, anxiously. You spin round to see the Jahksa leaning against the wall. A sly smirk creases the face that is also your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to attack your double and have at least 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points remaining, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to walk to the end of the corridor, where you can see a glowing, milky-white light, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on the formation of a magical shield, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Awareness suddenly glimmers in Tanith's face. Slowly she comes to her senses as if awakening from a deep sleep. <quote>Grey Star,</quote> she says, quietly. <quote>Is it really you?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, it's really me,</quote> you reply, with a warm smile.</p>
- <p><quote>I thought&ellips;</quote> she says with a dry sob. <quote>It was in my mind&ellips; the Black Wizard, he had your face. He took me from the Crystal Tower and brought me here. By the time I realized it wasn't you, the <!--ERRTAG-RA-192805-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-192805--> had asked me what gift I desired. I asked for you, Grey Star, and the <!--ERRTAG-RA-192805-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-192805--> told me that the Black Wizard was you. Then my mind was full of fear and loathing. I&emdash;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You don't have to explain. It's all right. I understand.</quote></p>
- <p>Outside, a strange, yet familiar voice sends a chill down your spine. <quote>How touching; how noble. Such understanding,</quote> it sneers. You rush outside to see a hooded figure dressed all in black. Slowly, deliberately, the hood is pulled aside to reveal your own face staring back at you. <quote>Greetings, brother,</quote> says your voice. <quote>We meet at last.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the lever back as far as it will go in an attempt to bring the craft out of its dive but now you lack power and the machine continues to gain downward momentum. You are too close to the ground to save yourself and the Ethetron crashes, killing you instantly.</p>
- <p>Your quest and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A violent gust tears into the craft and, with a resounding <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia>, the mast snaps. The Ethetron flips out of control and falls at a startling speed. There is no time to save yourself before the Ethetron explodes into the ground. There are no survivors.</p>
- <p>Your life is over; your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the Parchment stolen earlier from the dead Elessi and hand it to the guard. He eyes it suspiciously. Having read the Parchment, he hands it back and stands aside. He says something and you nod. The guard seems satisfied and you enter the palace.</p>
- <p>The sight takes your breath away. The interior comprises just a single hall. The high ceiling is supported by hundreds of transparent columns filled with a coloured liquid that stirs sluggishly within. But it is the glittering column of light at the far end of the hall that draws your attention as it changes colour and swirls like a lazy shining whirlpool. You walk towards it and, as you grow nearer, something else attracts your attention. The pillar is illuminating a grotesque but life-like statue of an infant child sat cross-legged on the floor, its face that of an old man. The statue is about three feet high and in its open, upturned mouth rests the Threnogem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Crystal Tower looms larger as you draw nearer; its buttresses, balustrades and cornices jutting at impossible angles. Some of the tower's ornamentation seems to disappear completely when looked at from certain directions, as if parts of the tower do not belong to this dimension at all. You also notice that, with growing frequency, the cloud plane is perforated with black holes of varying sizes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to investigate one of these holes, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you prefer to press on without any delay, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The craft spins, spiralling downwards at great speed. You pull and push on the lever and the foot bar but the machine's crazy descent soon throws you from the craft into mid-air. There is no time for defensive action as you hurtle to the ground, smashing into it seconds after the Ethetron.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and begin to chant. The Vale villagers flinch visibly, convinced that you mean to hurt them. You carry on regardless. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you cause it to rain. The fire is raging quite heavily and you are doubtful that the shower you have raised is of sufficient intensity to quench the fire. You prepare to throw another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point into the spell but stop suddenly as the villagers give a great gasp. A cold evil throbs at your back.</p>
- <p>You spin round to face the Jahksa. <quote>Why do you waste your energies so?</quote> the Jahksa enquires. <quote>On these simpletons and peasants.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And why have you shown yourself?</quote> you ask. <quote>These people now know that I did not burn their villages. Surely you hoped that they would cast me out without telling me where the Gate to the next realm can be found?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Your unimpressive display of <!--ERRTAG-RE-191971-->weather-working<!--/ERRTAG-RE-191971--> has sufficed,</quote> he snorts, derisively. <quote>You have saved the people and all live happily ever after,</quote> he sneers, sarcastically. <quote>But other dangers await you.</quote> So saying, the Jahksa disappears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You show the Gold Coin to the guard. He takes it and inspects it closely. With a nod he hands it back and then speaks to you once more. Apparently he requires something else before he will allow you into the palace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you have a Silver Coin and wish to give it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have a Copper Coin and wish to give it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you have a Parchment and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a Glass Rod and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The greyish mist in the Ethetron's glass dome is slowly seeping through the crack in the glass. The creatures of the mist writhe and gyre in their hunger and you struggle desperately with the controls as the ship sinks lower and lower, becoming an easier target for the hideous beasts. You swerve amongst them like a tiny insect flying through a forest of swaying trees. Add together your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If the total is 16 or more, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If the total is less than 16, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout down to Tanith and she prepares to climb. Taking a deep breath, you haul on the Rope, dragging Tanith towards you. She does her best to scramble up the tower but the weight of your Backpack and the encumbrance of your Wizard's Staff make climbing very difficult for her. Soon, she is on the ledge beside you. Another fifty feet remain to be climbed and you must repeat the process to reach the top of the tower.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Silver Charm of Jnana the <!--ERRTAG-RE-194756-->Wise, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194756--> may add 1 to this number. If you have the magical Talisman of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-194882-->Shianti, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194882--> may add a further 1 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If your total is now 6&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You exert the power of your mind upon the lock. At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you turn the tumbler of the lock mechanism. The door swings open to reveal a narrow flight of stairs, leading downwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to step forward, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to go back to the large stairway, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sky-blue sea with foam-crested waves rolls where the sky should be. Green hills and fields ripple and undulate like an ebb tide and the Ethetron begins to rock violently. Mountains stand on their peaks and towns and cities float haphazardly in the air. Night becomes day and day becomes night in the blink of an eye. A huge fist rears up, poised to strike, then passes through you like a phantom. All around you is the sound of crazed and forlorn laughter.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Mountains stand on their peaks and cities float haphazardly in the air</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have this Magical Power, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If the total is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If the result is less than 20, <link-text>turn <!--ERRTAG-RE-196878-->to 104<!--/ERRTAG-RE-196878--></link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to a long avenue paved with crystal stones. At the far end of the avenue is a huge palace constructed entirely of glass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to explore the city, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you decide to investigate the glass palace, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>So, Wizardling, we meet again. The Moonstone awaits us. But who shall claim <!--ERRTAG-RE-197810-->it, I<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197810--> wonder?</quote> he sneers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to attack your likeness and have at least 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points remaining, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to continue to the end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on the formation of a shield, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect177-1-foot" idref="sect177-1"><p>You must choose whether to keep the individual buds or to mix potions from them. You may not do both.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your trained eye picks out an extremely rare and useful plant that is growing on the hillside: the Senara, a flowering bush whose unripe buds have a <!--ERRTAG-RE-198717-->restorative<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198717--> effect. Chewing one of these large, yellow buds will restore 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. You may pick up to five of <!--ERRTAG-RE-198913-->these Buds<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198913-->; keep them in your Herb Pouch (remember that your Herb Pouch can contain a maximum of <!--ERRTAG-RE-199056-->eight items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199056-->). If you have a <!--ERRTAG-RE-199139-->Pestle and Mortar<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199139--> you may mix a preparation that will restore 5 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points with one <!--ERRTAG-RE-199296-->dose, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199296--> you will need a <!--ERRTAG-RE-199365-->Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199365--> in which to keep the <!--ERRTAG-RE-199440-->Potion<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199440-->. You may mix as many <!--ERRTAG-RE-199516-->Potions<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199516--> as you have <!--ERRTAG-RE-199581-->Vials<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199581-->.<a id="sect177-1" idref="sect177-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the snarling beast lunges, you thrust upwards with your Staff, dealing the wolf a powerful blow to the body. With a howl, the wolf is knocked aside and you close upon it to attack as it prepares to pounce once more.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Wolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Get out of my mind!</quote> she screams, desperation and pain in her voice. Quickly you extinguish the glow of the Gem for fear of damaging her mind. Outside, you hear a voice that sends an icy chill coursing through your body.</p>
- <p><quote>How sad. Tragic. Such a waste of energy on a girl who despises you.</quote> You rush out of the room to see a hooded figure dressed in black. Slowly the hood is pulled away to reveal your own face looking back at you. <quote>Greetings brother,' sneers a voice identical to your own. 'We meet at last.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lungs feel ready to burst and, with a spluttering gasp, you surface and gulp in huge breaths of air. Unfortunately, you are spotted by an Elessi who is searching the area. You are forced to surrender and a clutch of Elessin guards march you away to a huge palace in the centre of the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wall is, once more, totally unharmed by your attack. A further search reveals nothing. You cannot find, or feel, anything that indicates the presence of a doorway. <quote>Perhaps there is no door?</quote> Tanith suggests.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to try to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you prefer to examine one of the many black holes in the cloud plane, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect182-1-foot" idref="sect182-1"><p>If the Elessin confiscated your Weapons, including your Wizard's Staff, these are now returned to you.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the delighted cheers of the Elessin, the statue of the Screaming God is carried from the palace and away from the Singing City.<a id="sect182-1" idref="sect182-1-foot" class="footnote" /> It is taken to the grove of trees where your flying machine is hidden and loaded aboard. <thought>Many thanks, Grey Star,</thought> says the Guardian. <thought>Today you give us our freedom. Is there some way we can repay you?</thought></p>
- <p><quote>I seek the Moonstone of the Shianti,</quote> you say. <quote>Long ago they hid it somewhere on the plane of the Daziarn, our name for the realms gathered here. Can you tell me exactly where it is hidden?</quote></p>
- <p>The Elessi shakes his head. <thought>I have never heard of such a thing but there is one who surely might. In the Realm of Paradox lives one called Oz-na-Mun, he of the mighty hand. He is wise and knowledgeable; perhaps he will know.</thought></p>
- <p><quote>How may I find this Realm of Paradox? My only guide is this.</quote> You show the Guardian the Gyronome. <quote>And it can only guide me between here and the Neverness.</quote></p>
- <p><thought>Give this thing to me,</thought> he says. He closes his eyes, places the Gyronome close to his mouth, and begins to sing into it very softly. <thought>Now the Gyronome will guide you,</thought> he says, <thought>though you may never return to the Singing City. I have changed the power of the device so that it will seek the Realm of Paradox instead of our own; it will still return you to the place you call the Neverness while it is silent.</thought></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>I thank you,</quote> you say, boarding the Ethetron. <quote>Farewell.</quote> To a chorus of joyful singing and the blessing of the Elessin you carefully rise into the air with your perilous cargo. Once more you feel a strange tingling sensation as you leave the realm of the Elessin <!--ERRTAG-RE-204346-->forever<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204346-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278"><link-text>Turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Tanith run into the burning village. The effect is dramatic. <quote>He is back,</quote> you hear someone scream. They cower before you, their eyes bright with fear.</p>
- <p><quote>I mean you no harm! I want to help,</quote> you <!--ERRTAG-RE-204861-->cry, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204861--> all remain silent, regarding you with horrified stares. <quote>How can I help?</quote> you shout. A rock thuds at your feet by way of reply. You cannot see who threw it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it to help the villagers of the Vale, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you would prefer to move on and find another village, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessi guard gives a startled cry as you burst into a sprint and run along a street of countless windows. The guard raises the alarm and, looking over your shoulder, you now see that there are at least ten guards pursuing you. Turning the first corner you come to, you find yourself crossing a lawn of blue grass. The cries of the Elessin draw nearer and you curse your bad luck, for you can see no immediate hiding place. An ornate fountain lies in the centre of the lawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to jump into the fountain, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to keep running, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shield is barely formed when the Jahksa attacks you with his staff, but it successfully deflects the ball of <!--ERRTAG-RE-206493-->white-hot<!--/ERRTAG-RE-206493--> fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to fire at your double and have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to continue to the end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect186-1-foot" idref="sect186-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a final blow you beat off the eagle and it crashes to the ground, dead. Your body is covered with numerous wounds but none of them are serious.</p>
- <p>You must choose between the remaining Keys; only one will open the door to the Crystal Tower.<a id="sect186-1" idref="sect186-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you choose the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you choose the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-207841-->What?</quote> booms<!--/ERRTAG-RE-207841--> a voice from above. <quote>Who dares to challenge the design of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-215223-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-215223-->? Speak, petty mortal!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>They were but illusions, <!--ERRTAG-RA-215223-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-215223-->. I saw the truth beyond them,</quote> you reply.</p>
- <p><quote>Truth is but illusion. Reality is but a mortal dream. What do you seek, dreamer?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I'm looking for a girl; her name is Tanith.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Know this, mortal. You are in the Realm of Paradox&emdash;my realm. It is a world of <!--ERRTAG-RE-208415-->possibilities<!--/ERRTAG-RE-208415--> and contradictions. None may find what they seek unless they pay the price.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What price?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>My price. Will you pay it?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to agree to the condition of the strange god, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you refuse his terms, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fend off the growing number of creatures with increasingly desperate blows; you are beginning to tire. The ghostly light of the Ethetron's power source is almost extinguished, yet the Trianon of the Shianti still lies tantalizingly close. The birds crowd around you, hovering and fluttering on their stubby wings as the Ethetron sinks closer to the swirling mists below.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-birds</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have thrown the flying machine into a spin. Despite your frantic efforts you are unable to pull the Ethetron from its spiralling fall and it smashes to the ground, sending debris and wreckage flying in all directions. You are killed instantly on impact.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest are now over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect190-1-foot" idref="sect190-1"><p>There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. This appears to be an oversight which is not easily correctable.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect190-1" idref="sect190-1-foot" class="footnote" />When at last you come to the village you find that it is nothing but a smouldering ruin. <!--ERRTAG-RE-210369-->Cautiously, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-210369--> peer out from the cover of the thick foliage that surrounds the small wood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to go into the village and find out what has happened, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you prefer to move on and find another village, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect191-1-foot" idref="sect191-1"><p>If you carry any other Weapon in addition to your Wizard's Staff, the Elessin have confiscated this too (but not any weapon-like Special Items). Note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the palace and walk down a vast hall containing hundreds of transparent columns, each filled with a coloured liquid. You are met by a tall man with golden hair and piercing blue eyes. He is cloaked in white robes and carries a jewelled crozier in one hand, your Wizard's Staff in the other.<a id="sect191-1" idref="sect191-1-foot" class="footnote" /> At his command, the Elessin guards leave.</p>
- <p>The golden-haired man frowns at you, his piercing gaze almost forcing you to turn your head away. It is as if he can see into your very soul. A voice echoes in your mind: <thought>You have slain my people; why?</thought> The man is telepathic and, because the language of the mind is universal, you are able to understand what he is thinking.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to explain your crimes by telling the Elessi the truth, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to deny all knowledge of these crimes, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire a bolt of energy at your twin that wreathes around him like a snake of fire, but it is you who cry out in pain. Reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total by half (round up fractions to the nearest whole number).</p>
- <p><quote>Would you destroy yourself, brother?</quote> laughs the evil creature, horribly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to turn your back on the creature and walk to the end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to enter one of the doors along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To use your Magical Power of Psychomancy you must touch the object you wish to learn more about. The use of this Magical Power costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you wish to touch the door, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to take the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to hold the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to hold the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to take the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to take the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unleash a blast of magical fire aimed directly at the creature. Combat may last for only two rounds before you will have flown past it.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Creature of the Mists</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you survive, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When, at last, you surface for air, the area is deserted. You step out of the fountain. Your clothes soon dry in the sun as you wander through the streets of the fabulous city, in search of a clue to the whereabouts of the Threnogem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you do not have this Power, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the Glass Rod and offer it to the guard. His suspicion is aroused; he throws you an unblinking glare and says something in his curious language. Nervously you consider what else you might offer him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have a Copper Coin and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you have a Silver Coin and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have a Gold Coin and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you have a Parchment and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect197-1-foot" idref="sect197-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wings spread wide, the dragon takes to the air and soon disappears from sight. Once more you thank Tanith for saving your life. If you wish to keep the Dragon Key, mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<!--ERRTAG-DE-216409/--></p>
- <p>You must now choose from the remaining Keys since only one of them can open the door to the Crystal Tower.<a id="sect197-1" idref="sect197-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you choose the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you choose the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you choose the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both you and Tanith search the room thoroughly but all you find is a small Prism. If you wish to keep this Special Item, place it in the pocket of your robe and remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you now wish to leave the room the way you came in, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you wish to leave by the other exit, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift up your head and shout: <quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-225840-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225840-->, I call thee!</quote> There is a great swirling of colour and flashing light. You have summoned the Master of Paradox.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Tanith still close by your side you enter a large, square room. The walls are made of the same black crystal as the outer wall of the tower. A large, ornate stairway ascends from the room and the only other visible exit is a door to your left. There are many paintings on the walls. The flagstones on the floor of the gloomy hall bear the carvings of swords. The one you are now standing on bears an inscription.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to look at the paintings, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to examine the floor, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to make for the stairs, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to head for the door on the left, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you draw closer to the village, you realize it is on fire. The occupants are running backwards and forwards with buckets of water but they are fighting a losing battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to try to help the villagers, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you prefer to move on in search of another village whose occupants might be able to tell you how to find the hidden realm of the Moonstone, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fabricate a reason for your presence in the Realm of the Elessin, claiming ignorance of any deaths by your hand. The golden-haired man is furious. Once more his voice echoes inside your head; and the words give you cause to fear. <quote>You lie!</quote> he says. <quote>Prepare to meet sentence.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is less than 12, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ethetron hits the ground, smashing into a thousand tiny pieces. You are killed on impact, a mercifully quick <!--ERRTAG-RE-220475-->death, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-220475--> your body is never found.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are facing the door, with the stairway to your right and the tower entrance to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to step forward on to the flagstone bearing two swords, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to move diagonally to the right, stepping on to the flagstone bearing one sword, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The overwhelming force of your attack beats the birds away for the moment. The Ethetron grinds to a complete halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you have the Keys to the Crystal Tower, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78"><!--ERRTAG-RE-242218-->If you possess the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-242218-->, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you have neither of these, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With all the concentration you can muster, you search for a door, running your hand along the crystal wall in the hope of finding a hidden seam or hinge. Soon you are back where you started and you have found nothing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to examine the crystal wall immediately below the metal plate that bears the inscription, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to try to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to attack the crystal wall with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-222913-->point, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-222913--> summon up your Power of Prophecy and try to discover how Tanith has been so affected. However, all that you can ascertain is that the Black Wizard and the <!--ERRTAG-RA-231410-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-231410--> are responsible for her condition.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to expend another <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point searching for the Black Wizard, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to speak with the <!--ERRTAG-RA-231410-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-231410-->, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess a Mind Gem and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to try to rid Tanith of the spell which enchants her, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You mount the steps and stand before the palace entrance. Suddenly, an Elessi guard comes striding towards you, speaking in a commanding tone, his hand outstretched. He requires something from you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have a Gold Coin and wish to give it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you have a Silver Coin and wish to give it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have a Copper Coin and wish to give it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you have a Parchment and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a Glass Rod and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach down and pick up the statue. It is surprisingly heavy. With a gasp, the Elessin reel back, horrified expressions on their faces. Staggering, you inch your way along the hall towards the exit.</p>
- <p><thought>In the name of all that is sacred!</thought> screams the voice in your head. <thought>You know not what you bear.</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is 16 or less, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is more than 16, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If Spittlethrift speaks the truth in saying that you cannot leave the Neverness without the aid of the Academicians, then you have little choice. Tanith flashes <!--ERRTAG-RE-225926-->you a look<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225926--> that says, <quote>I do not trust him.</quote> But you can only shrug a reply. You agree to steal the Threnogem from the Elessin of the Singing City.</p>
- <p><quote>Good, good. Marvellous, in fact,</quote> says Spittlethrift, joyously. <quote>Come with me to the laboratory.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ignore the man, who soon disappears from view. You continue across the cloud plane towards the building and soon you can make out the shape of a tall tower, gleaming faintly with a strange, brittle light. The tower appears to be constructed from great shards of black crystal, and its architecture possess an alien quality that is both puzzling and intriguing.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You breathe deeply to try to steady yourself for the jump. You land a little awkwardly and injure your ankle: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You have sprained it, and you are forced to hobble along the deserted street and into a long, crystal-paved avenue beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Believing that Tanith is held by means of enchantment, you decide to fight like with like. Tanith and the gaunt man are still cowering in the corner of the room. Patiently you sit down on a wooden chair opposite and begin the trance. You know that you cannot dispel Tanith's illusion; you must enable her to do that herself if she is to be free.</p>
- <p>When you have shaped the illusion in your mind you transfer it to hers. You begin to recall, moment by moment, all the events that you and she have shared. You start from the time when you first met in the dungeons of Mother Magri and she, a serving girl in the Wytch's service, offered you food and pity. You go on to describe her role in your escape. Still her illusion is not broken. Tanith's breathing becomes more rapid and sweat breaks out upon her brow. Her face is torn by conflicting emotions as you strain to maintain your illusion: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to expend a further <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to continue your spell, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to give up, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tense with anticipation, you wait as the figures draw near. Each wears a short white toga; they have blonde hair and strange, circular ears.</p>
- <p>As soon as they arrive they begin speaking to you in a language you cannot understand. Their voices are soft and flute-like and there is a lilting quality to their speech. These are <!--ERRTAG-RE-229317-->Elessin, inhabitants<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229317--> of the Singing City. Excitedly, they chatter on, pointing at both the Ethetron and the sky. You soon realize that they wish you to go to the Singing City with them.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Elessin have soft, flute-like voices and wear short togas</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="611"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="611"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to go with the Elessin, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to attack them with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The webbed claw rakes the side of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-229962-->Ethetron, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229962--> your swift reflexes save you from certain death. As the monstrous limb sinks back into the mist, Tanith points to a crack that has appeared in the glass dome that contains the power which drives the craft. The Ethetron starts to lose height, sinking slowly into the swirling mystery below.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, there is a hideous roar and seven eyeless heads on long, slender necks wave before you like monstrous flowers in a breeze. Twenty feet tall, with teeth like razors, they sway this way and that, blindly seeking you out. A giant head sways barely a few feet away and a yawning mouth bears down on you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Seven eyeless heads on long, slender necks wave before you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to attack the creature with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you wish to manoeuvre between the long-necked monsters, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the Gate, past a shimmering waterfall, and into the foothills of a mountain range towards a lush, green valley. You land the Ethetron and you and Tanith disembark.</p>
- <p>Everywhere is a growing, verdant splendour. The air is fresh and invigorating and you suddenly realize that you have not eaten since you crossed the Shadow Gate. You mention this to Tanith and she nods in agreement, pointing to the berries of a nearby bush. Perhaps more familiar natural laws apply in this realm. You eat your fill of the delicious berries; restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to their great nutritional value.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Everywhere is a growing, verdant splendour</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you do not have this Magical Power, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fasten one end of the Rope around your waist and hand the other end to Tanith. When she has secured her end of the Rope, you hand her your Wizard's Staff and Backpack, since you will need as little encumbrance as possible while you attempt the difficult climb ahead. <quote>When I reach a ledge,</quote> you say to Tanith, <quote>I'll try to haul you up.</quote></p>
- <p>She nods, a look of concern etched into her pretty face. <quote>Be <!--ERRTAG-RE-232522-->careful, Grey<!--/ERRTAG-RE-232522--> Star.</quote></p>
- <p>Taking a deep breath you begin the ascent.</p>
- <p>Select a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Silver Charm of Jnana the Wise, add 1 to this total. If you possess the magic Talisman of the Shianti, add a further 1 to this total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If your total is 6&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Jahksa snatches the Moonstone, and with a triumphant yell, turns to face you, brandishing his staff menacingly. <quote>Prepare to die, Wizardling,</quote> says the Jahksa, viciously. You raise your Staff, ready to fight for possession of the Moonstone. Suddenly, Tanith stays your hand, begging you not to fight.</p>
- <p><quote>Something terrible will happen if you fight this creature,</quote> she says, imploringly. <quote>Grey Star, I sense <!--ERRTAG-RE-233688-->it!<!--/ERRTAG-RE-233688--></quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you refuse to fight with the Jahksa, as Tanith suggests, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to fight the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you can force Tanith's mind to overcome the spell that binds it, you will help her to dispel the illusion. You light the Mind Gem with the power of your will and focus its red glow on Tanith. You repeat to Tanith, over and again, that she is under a spell and urge her to resist. You have used 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point when suddenly Tanith cries out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is greater than 10, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you are sure that none of them are looking in your direction you burst from your hiding place, your Staff blazing with magical fire. Several are slain before the remaining Elessin realize what is happening. They make no attempt to fight back and, after a short combat (that costs you 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points), <!--ERRTAG-RE-235311-->only one Elessi<!--/ERRTAG-RE-235311--> remains standing. You raise your Staff to strike him as he places a slim, silver <!--ERRTAG-RA-244160-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-244160--> to his lips and blows. Suddenly your head is filled with a screaming pain as the shrill whistle of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-244160-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-244160--> drills into your brain.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If the total is 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If the total is more than 20, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find yourself in a dark corridor. You proceed cautiously along the passage, edging past the stone statues that, oddly, are placed at random on the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to examine one of these statues more closely, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to continue without investigating the statues, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dash into the palace. You have only a few moments in which to find the Threnogem and escape. You run along the massive hall, past rows of transparent columns that contain a shifting, coloured liquid, and press on towards a swirling pillar of light at the far end of the hall. Beneath the whirlpool of light you see a grotesque statue of an infant child with an old man's face. In its open mouth rests the Threnogem.</p>
- <p>You are rushing towards the statue when suddenly a voice shouts out in your head. <thought>Stop!</thought> it demands.</p>
- <p>Instinctively, you spin round and see a tall figure draped in white robes, with long, golden hair. He holds a jewelled crozier in his hand and is commanding you, telepathically, to stop. A crowd of Elessin enters behind him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to attack the man with the golden hair, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to do as the man demands, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the section of wall just below the metal plate but discover nothing. There is no sign of a concealed door, hinge or seam.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to try to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to attack the crystal wall with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to examine one of the many black holes in the cloud plane, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out and touch the statue. With a start, you realize that this was once a living creature that has been turned to stone by magical means. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plunge into the fountain seconds before the Elessin turn the corner. You hold your breath and hope that the guards will have passed before you have to surface for air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is greater than 20, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total is 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you bend down and examine the statue, you give an involuntary shudder. The statue emanates a potent evil; it is the source of a terrible demonic power. Suddenly a voice echoes in your mind: <thought>Stop!</thought></p>
- <p>You spin round to see a tall man with golden hair standing at the far end of the hall. He is robed in white and carries a jewelled crozier. Behind him crowd a group of Elessin guards. The man is speaking to you telepathically. The language of the mind is universal and you are able to understand him clearly. He orders you to remain exactly where you are.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to do as he says, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to attack the tall, golden-haired man at long range with your Wizard's Staff, and have more than 5 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out and take the Eagle Key. Tanith cries a warning, causing you to spin round. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> she screams, pointing up at a dark speck high in the featureless sky.</p>
- <p>The speck grows larger and larger and soon you hear the sound of beating wings. A giant eagle is hurtling towards you, its chilling scream breaking the silence. Its hooked beak and cruel talons are poised to tear your flesh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to fire a long-range attack with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you wish to wait and fight the eagle in close combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to a main road that crosses your path into the valley. It leads into a village, which you can see in the distance, hugging a small wood of squat trees. Strangely, there is a lot of smoke rising from the village.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lay your hands upon the door and drift into a state of deep concentration. Immediately you sense that the door gives off a powerful aura, a strange magic that is totally new to you. The enchantment is resistant to your Power of Psychomancy but your instincts tell you that one of the five Keys will unlock the door. Still deep within your trance state you try to choose the Key that will open the door to the Crystal Tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to touch the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to touch the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to touch the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to touch the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to touch the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you enter the building and find yourself in a massive hall with tiered balconies looming high above you. You walk past many rows of transparent columns filled with a slow-moving coloured liquid and, in the distance, you see a swirling whirlpool of light.</p>
- <p>The light illuminates a grotesque statue, three feet in height and formed of a strange, greenish metal. The statue has the body of a child sat cross-legged on the floor but bears the shrivelled face of an old man. In its open, upturned mouth rests the Threnogem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to examine the statue more closely, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect231-1-foot" idref="sect231-1"><p>Remember that you may only use those Keys you possess.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Of course!</quote> you shout to Tanith. <quote>The Keys! We must use the Keys!</quote> With an understanding nod, she takes the Keys.</p>
- <p><quote>Which one?</quote> she asks.<a id="sect231-1" idref="sect231-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you choose the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you choose the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you choose the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you choose the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Though you have no idea what the guard is saying to you, you appear to have made the right response. He allows you to pass and you breathe a sigh of relief as you enter the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swerve aside but you are seconds too late. The gigantic hand slaps you from the air like an irritating fly and you are smashed into the ground. There is no chance of survival.</p>
- <p>Your quest and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk forward on to the flagstone. Nothing happens.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you now wish to trace a course to the stairway, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to make your way to the door, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gingerly you reach forward and take the Wolf Key. Before you are able to insert it into the lock, a long, low growl causes the hairs on the back of your neck to stand on end. You peer into the dim shadows of the Neverness where you can just make out the crouched form of a wolf-shape as it glares at you with burning eyes. Then, with a fierce snarl, the huge, grey wolf springs at your <!--ERRTAG-RE-246936-->throat, its<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246936--> teeth bared.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If the number you have picked is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Power of Prophecy shows you what you feared most: Shasarak's Jahksa. Your dark twin is somewhere close at hand and there is terrible evil in his heart. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lose 1 more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point as you deepen your trance in the hope of locating the Black Wizard. The vision is a disturbing one, for all you can see is yourself, standing where you stand now in a trance state, searching for yourself. Is the Realm of Paradox able to affect your Power this way?</p>
- <p>Your trance is suddenly broken by the sound of your own laughter; but you are not laughing. With dread in your heart, you open your eyes; what you see before you causes your skin to crawl with fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are now the centre of attention. Your clothes and appearance distinguish you considerably from the Elessin and soon a great crowd surrounds you. Their faces are warm and welcoming and you sense no danger. The press of the crowd carries you down the long avenue and ahead you see a huge palace, more beautiful than the other buildings. You head towards it, the Elessin laughing and singing around you.</p>
- <p>Eventually, you reach the bottom of a massive glass stairway that leads into the palace itself. Before the entrance at the top of the staircase stands an imposing figure draped in white and golden robes. You climb the steps, leaving the Elessin at the bottom. The man greets you; he has long, golden hair and sparkling blue eyes and holds a jewelled crozier in his hand. He is the leader of the Elessin. With a welcoming gesture, the man ushers you into the palace. Any plan for the secret theft of the Threnogem is shattered and you decide to allow events to run their natural course in the hope that an opportunity will soon present itself. With diplomacy in mind, you bow and follow the golden-haired man into the magnificent palace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to decide on a route back to the stairway, finding the darkness of the other doorway sinister and uninviting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to walk to the stairs by stepping on the flagstone that bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to walk to the stairs by stepping on the flagstone that bears two swords, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect240-1-foot" idref="sect240-1"><p>You may keep any Keys that you have already noted on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may also keep any Keys that you have not used&emdash;which might be the Eagle Key, the Wolf Key, the Spider Key and/or the Dragon Key. List all Keys to the Crystal Tower as a single Backpack Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (noting which Keys are included). If you do not want to carry the Keys in your Backpack, you can let Tanith carry them, but you must then note down that you cannot access them if Tanith is not with you.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the Key from the hook and place it in the lock. You have guessed correctly: the Key fits. You unlock the door, push it open, and take a deep breath before entering the Crystal Tower. Suddenly the Serpent Key vanishes into thin air!</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the remaining Keys, mark them as Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you decide to carry them, they must be kept in your Backpack unless you give them to Tanith to carry, in which case note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<a id="sect240-1" idref="sect240-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man leads you into a vast hall. Its incredibly high ceiling is supported by hundreds of transparent columns that contain a <!--ERRTAG-RE-251549-->many-coloured<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251549--> liquid. At the far end of the hall is a pillar of swirling light that illuminates a <!--ERRTAG-RE-251713-->grotesque but life-like statue<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251713--> of a child. <thought>Welcome,</thought> says a voice in your head, <thought>to the Palace of the Screaming God.</thought> Instinctively you spin round to look at the man with the golden hair. He is a <!--ERRTAG-RE-259054-->telepath, and since<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259054--> the language of the mind is universal, you are able to understand everything he says. <thought>I am the Guardian of the Threnogem,</thought> he informs you. <thought>And you are Grey Star. Pray tell me, why have you come to the Realm of the Elessin?</thought></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>In the palace of the Screaming God there is a grotesque but life-like statue of a child</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="610"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="610"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to attack the Guardian of the Threnogem, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to snatch the Threnogem from the statue's mouth and try to break out of the Palace of the Screaming God, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to tell the Guardian your true purpose, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect242-1-foot" idref="sect242-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Wait, dragon,</quote> you call, as the mighty beast makes to leave. <quote>What do you know of these Keys? Which one will open the Crystal Tower? What lies beyond?</quote></p>
- <p>The dragon peers down at you, a wisp of smoke curling from its nostrils and winding around its long, reptilian head. <quote>Little Wizard,</quote> he says in a deep, rumbling voice, <quote>thy friend hath mastered a dragon. What more couldst thou seek to achieve?</quote> You say <!--ERRTAG-RE-253378-->nothing, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253378--> with a weary tone, the dragon continues. <quote>Each Key can summon the beast in whose likeness it hath been fashioned. These are not true beasts but spirit creatures. He who can master beasts may master these creatures also, otherwise he will be slain by them.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Which Key opens the door to the Crystal Tower?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Of this, I cannot speak, save to tell that the answer lies hidden in the words above the door,</quote> the dragon answers reluctantly. With these words, the dragon lifts its broad wings and soars into the sky, swiftly disappearing from view.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep the Dragon Key, mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<!--ERRTAG-DE-254306/--></p>
- <p>You turn and read the inscription once more:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>Ware the hunters, beasts of prey,
- <br />Five in number, feared by name;
- <br />The widow woman, patient weaver:
- <br />The tireless runner, shadow-seeker;
- <br />Bird of fire, the treasure lover;
- <br />Arrow-swift, his keen-eyed brother;
- <br />But only he who walks without feet
- <br />May pass this door of mystery.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You must now choose from the remaining Keys.<a id="sect242-1" idref="sect242-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you choose the Spider Key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you choose the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you choose the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Now I have you,</quote> he says with a snarl. He raises his staff to meet your attack, and there is a blinding clash of magical fire that fills the room with light.</p>
- <p><quote>No, Grey Star,</quote> Tanith shouts. <quote>Do not fight him.</quote></p>
- <combat><enemy>Jahksa</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect218">You may stop fighting at any time by <link-text>turning to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you lose the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a gargoyle of glass mounted on the wall. You fasten the Rope to it and gently slide down to the deserted street. The Rope is still fastened to the top of the wall and you must leave it there. (Delete <!--ERRTAG-RE-264258-->this item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264258--> from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You walk along the street, which leads to a long, crystal-paved avenue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><thought>This was once the realm of the Demon, Steth-Amon, Master of Sound. We, the Elessin, were created his slave singers, a choir of the damned, and long did we labour in his service. His was the music of dissonance, designed to drive his victims insane or to lure them with its enticements. Steth-Amon would sow seeds of discord and clamour in the realms of mortals so that they would join him and then be doomed to lives of misery under his dominion. But we, the Elessin, conceived of a plan to overthrow him, for we desire the beauty of music: harmony and the melody of accord. We created the Threnogem, a tool of silence, for without silence there can be no true music. While he slumbered we dropped the Threnogem into his open mouth and silenced him. Robbed of his power, the power of his mighty voice, he froze as you see him now.</thought></p>
- <p>He gestures towards the statue beneath the swirling pillar of light. <thought>We built this place to contain him and called it the Palace of the Screaming God. Each day we sing our song, giving force to the Threnogem so that the Screaming God should remain forever silent. All our power is dedicated to this single act, for his was a great evil. If the Threnogem is removed, the Screaming God will be released. Those who have sent you upon this quest know not of this, or else they do not care. Perhaps they desire to free the Screaming God, or wish your death. However, there is a way for you to fulfil your bargain and do us a great service, too.</thought></p>
- <p>Yet another bargain! <quote>What is it you wish me to do?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><thought>Take the statue with you,</thought> the Guardian replies. <thought>Take it in your flying machine and remove it from this realm. Give the statue, with the Threnogem inside it, to the Academicians. Let them guard it as we have done. It would be just.</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you wish to agree to the Guardian's request, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you do not trust the Guardian, and wish to try to overpower him and steal the Threnogem, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tower wall is smooth and sheer and the climb extremely difficult. Your progress is further impeded by the illusory nature of the tower: crevices and projections that make up the strange designs that ornament the tower sometimes disappear from view just when you reach for a handhold. Eventually, you complete the climb and find yourself crouched upon a narrow ledge, <!--ERRTAG-RE-259504-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259504--> up the tower. Now you must attempt to haul up <!--ERRTAG-RE-259609-->Tanith, still<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259609--> standing below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Silver Charm of Jnana the Wise, add 1 to this number. If you possess the magic Talisman of the Shianti, add another 1 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If your total is now 5&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are soaring through a starlit sky, myriad tiny <!--ERRTAG-RE-264401-->pinpoints<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264401--> of light shining above. Tanith clutches your arm and points below at a swirling gaseous incandescence, lit by sporadic bursts of violet lightning. Suddenly, a huge, webbed claw as tall as a house, with green, shining skin rises up out of the mists.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Add together your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If the total is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If the total is less than 15, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With considerable skill and speed you kill another two Elessin. Your attack costs you 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Now only one Elessi remains. He places a small, silver <!--ERRTAG-RA-270869-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-270869--> between his <!--ERRTAG-RE-261276-->lips, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-261276--> at once a terrible screaming fills your ears. You gasp with pain as the shriek of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-270869-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-270869--> bores its way into your mind.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If the combined total is 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If the total is more than 20, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RE-271107-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271107--> has placed you in an impossible situation, as was his intention. You are being forced to take your enemy with you on your quest, the success of which he seeks to prevent.</p>
- <p>You and Tanith walk back to the Ethetron, the Jahksa close behind. With a smirk, he, too, squeezes into the little craft. As you rise into the air and steer towards the Moaning Mountain, you rack your brains for a way of ridding yourself of your enemy, standing at the far end of the craft and grinning maliciously at you.</p>
- <p>There is little you can do, for your attention is devoted to operating the controls that keep the Ethetron in flight. Your nerves are constantly on edge; the Jahksa is in an ideal position to bring the craft down in the writhing sea below and you are plagued by the thought that the Jahksa can predict your every move.</p>
- <p>A large bank of storm clouds ahead spells trouble. The Jahksa has been silent for a long time and you wonder if he has summoned an Elemental storm against you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to attack the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you do not wish to use your Magical Powers at this <!--ERRTAG-RE-263451-->time, or<!--/ERRTAG-RE-263451--> do not possess either of the above, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Splendid! Splendid!</quote> says a cheerful voice. You spin round to see a little fat man, dressed head-to-toe in a black gown. He claps his pudgy hands together and smiles happily.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Spittlethrift claps his pudgy hands together and smiles happily</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Who are you?</quote> you ask, still breathless.</p>
- <p><quote>I am Spittlethrift, scholar, professor and master of the Crystal Tower. Yes, yes&ellips; a tower of learning, a veritable pillar of wisdom and knowledge, ha, ha, indeed!</quote> He takes a pair of wire-framed spectacles and places them on the end of his smudge of a nose. <quote>You are not <!--ERRTAG-RE-264296-->alone, I<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264296--> see.</quote> He squints at Tanith. <quote>Most pleasing, enchanting&ellips; yes, yes, well done! You have passed the test; you will suffice.</quote> He turns towards the door and flutters his hands in an agitated manner. <quote>Come now, you must meet the rest of us. Oh yes, delightful, engaging, so wonderfully entertaining!</quote></p>
- <p>The excitable little man leaves the room, still chuckling to himself, and you follow close behind. Soon, he ushers you into a dim room, which is dusty and full of cobwebs. The air is stale and thick with tobacco smoke and seated opposite in a large armchair is a thin, straggling man, roughly Spittlethrift's height, with bulging, shadowy eyes. Reclining in various positions around the room are several others, all approximately Spittlethrift's height, and all similarly dressed.</p>
- <p><quote>Gentlemen, gentlemen, we have guests, brave adventurers who have solved the complications of our dark abode. May I <!--ERRTAG-RE-265340-->introduce&ellips;<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265340--></quote></p>
- <p>He casts a questioning glance in your direction and, hesitantly, you say, <quote>The Wizard, Grey <!--ERRTAG-RE-265518-->Star, and the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265518--> lady, Tanith.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, yes, Grey Star and Tanith,</quote> Spittlethrift repeats, unnecessarily. He turns to face you. <quote>And we are the Academicians. Welcome.</quote> He bows politely, as do the remaining scholars in the dingy room. After shaking hands with more than twenty <!--ERRTAG-RE-265887-->Academicians, all<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265887--> with very curious <!--ERRTAG-RE-265963-->names, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265963--> are led from the room to Spittlethrift's study. There he explains to you the cryptic nature of the Crystal Tower and the <!--ERRTAG-RE-266156-->Academicians'<!--/ERRTAG-RE-266156--> purpose on the Daziarn plane.</p>
- <p><quote>We are scholars, my dear boy,</quote> says Spittlethrift. <quote>Inventors, scientists, inquisitors of the unknown. Here, on the Daziarn plane, we have been able to turn our dreams, our ideas, our very thoughts into reality. It is the nature of this place. Time, space, the fundamental laws that govern existence in the material world&emdash;all can be adjusted, altered, ignored even! That is why we choose to live here. Others have changed their world within the Daziarn to suit their purpose. The demons and devils of good and evil reside here, creating their surroundings as best it suits them. There are gods and their ilk, and stranger forces beyond all imagining. Their thoughts, hopes, fears and intentions weave the fabric of their realms. We do not seek to dominate or master the realm we inhabit&emdash;we live only within our tower. The Neverness&emdash;the unformed cloud that surrounds us&emdash;is the fabric of the Daziarn, unclaimed and untainted. It is this that we use for our&ellips; experiments.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You mean the black holes that surround the tower?</quote> you enquire.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, yes,</quote> Spittlethrift replies.</p>
- <p><quote>But why is the tower so dangerous?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Ah!</quote> says Spittlethrift. <quote>Let me assure you that it is not for our simple amusement, nor is it due to a malicious dislike for visitors, that our tower has been built to test the cunning, the wits, the wiles, and the bravery of those who dare to enter.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And those who fail?</quote> asks Tanith, scornfully. <quote>What happens to them?</quote></p>
- <p>The little man clears his throat, uncomfortably, dismissing Tanith's question with a wave of his hand. <quote>No matter of importance. You have succeeded; you've triumphed. You have proved yourselves capable of fulfilling a great quest.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I am already upon a quest,</quote> you say. <quote>I have no time for another.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>That is what you <!--ERRTAG-RE-268334-->think, m'boy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-268334-->,</quote> says Spittlethrift. <quote>But you've yet to understand. You are in the Neverness. The Neverness leads nowhere, borders on nowhere, is nowhere. Without our help you will never leave it. Embark upon our quest and we will grant you the means to travel freely about the Daziarn. Refuse, and you will remain here, perhaps forever.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You threaten me?</quote> you say menacingly, rising to your feet.</p>
- <p><quote>No, no!</quote> splutters the scholar, hastily. <quote>I merely state the facts. The Neverness is a wilderland between the realms of the Daziarn but it does not connect the realms as the mountains, seas and roads in your world do. We, however, have found a way to travel the realms and can grant you the means to do so if you will perform a simple task for us.</quote> You say <!--ERRTAG-RE-269228-->nothing, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269228--> Spittlethrift goes on. <quote>There is a place, a city of glass, called the Singing City, inhabited by a race called the Elessin. We wish you to journey to the Singing City and steal the Threnogem from them. It is a stone, said to emit music and control the emotions of all who hear its melody. The Elessin have put it to evil use; we merely wish to explore its powers. You will be helping the enslaved and furthering our search for knowledge. Please will you help <!--ERRTAG-RE-269749-->us, Grey<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269749--> Star?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you wish to help Spittlethrift and the Academicians, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you feel you must refuse, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Chaos-birds circle overhead and Tanith chants over the Key as the birds form up to attack. As they hurtle towards you, the giant wolf that Tanith summons rears up to meet <!--ERRTAG-RE-270512-->them, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-270512--> it is not sufficiently strong to resist the charge of all the evil birds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect252-1-foot" idref="sect252-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove the Spider Key from its hook and grasp it tightly. A strange tingling sensation travels from your fingertips all the way up your arm. The Key shimmers and then transforms into a real spider the size of your palm. Tanith screams with fright and, before you have time to react, you feel a sharp, stinging pain. In seconds, the poison injected by the spider is coursing through your veins; lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>If you are still alive, you must choose from the remaining Keys.<a id="sect252-1" idref="sect252-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you choose the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you choose the Wolf Key, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Concentrating even harder, your temples throb with the effort of sustaining the trance state as you think through your adventures with Tanith in the lands of the Shadakine Empire. When, finally, you reach the confrontation with the shadow demon, the Kleasá, at the campfire south of Suhn, Tanith begins to murmur in choked sobs, <quote>Could it be? Is it really you?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to expend a further <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to continue your spell, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to give up, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elessi's suspicions have been aroused. He reaches out with his hand and speaks again in a harsh and authoritative tone. He is demanding something from you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to show him the Glass Rod, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to show him the Parchment, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to show him the Gold Coin, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you wish to show him the Silver Coin, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to show him the Copper Coin, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Looking for me?</quote> asks a contemptuous voice. You look up and see a hooded figure dressed in black, carrying a long, black staff. Slowly the hood is pulled away to reveal your own face staring back at you. <quote>Greetings, brother,</quote> your own voice laughs, coldly. <quote>We meet at last.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairway is directly in front of you, the entrance behind, and the smaller door to your left. Having decided that you wish to head for the stairs, you must now choose your route.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to walk to the flagstone in the centre of the room that bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to step on to the flagstone bearing two swords directly in front of you, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk over to one of the black holes situated close by. Peering in you can see only an absolute, impenetrable blackness. <quote>Perhaps these, too, are Gateways,</quote> suggests Tanith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to put your hand into the hole, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to enter the hole, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to continue towards the Crystal Tower, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without hesitation you turn back down the stairs. You hear the soft, leathery flap of the lizard's feet as it pursues you. <quote>Quickly,</quote> Tanith gasps. <quote>It's right behind us.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to turn and attack the beast, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to run to the room of mirrors, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You explain your quest in detail; you tell of the Academicians who hold Tanith in the Crystal Tower, and of your need to give them the Threnogem. Patiently the Guardian listens to your story without interruption, nodding occasionally. When you have finished, the Guardian tells you the true nature of the Threnogem and of the strange statue in which it rests.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are soon discovered. Laughing musically, the Elessin pull aside the branches and undergrowth that hide you. Feeling rather foolish, you allow yourself to be led out of the grove. The Elessin also discover your Ethetron. They chatter, excitedly, pointing at both the flying machine and the sky as they speak. You soon realize that they wish you to go to the Singing City with them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to go with the Elessin, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to refuse, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you throw down the door with a sheet of magical fire. As the door falls from its hinges and crashes to the ground, a narrow flight of stairs is revealed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to step forward, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to go back to the large stairway, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your <!--ERRTAG-RE-278140-->surprise, the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-278140--> palace appears deserted. Perhaps it is a temple where people meet only at certain times, or a sacred place, which only a select few are allowed to enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to mount the steps and enter the palace, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to wait for nightfall to attempt to investigate the palace under cover of darkness, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Heart pounding, you spin round, your Staff held in readiness to attack. The lizard bursts into the room. With a look of horror it instantly tries to leave but it is too late. Its own baleful gaze, a gaze which turns others to stone, is reflected on itself. It stops dead in its tracks, a victim of its own fatal power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Feeling a little <!--ERRTAG-RE-279356-->apprehensive, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-279356--> attempt to gauge the height of the tower. It stands at least 30 metres tall: the climb will be arduous and dangerous.</p>
- <p><quote>I'm going to try to climb it,</quote> you say to Tanith.</p>
- <p><quote>Do you think you can make it?</quote> She shakes her head doubtfully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you possess a Rope and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you do not have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You break the trance and breathe out through clenched teeth. Tanith is confused. She tries to make sense of the visions that you have placed in her mind and the magical compulsion that forces her to fear you. Outside, you hear a voice that sends an icy chill through your body.</p>
- <p><quote>How sad. Tragic. Such a waste of energy on a girl who despises you.</quote> You rush out of the room to see a hooded figure dressed entirely in black and carrying a long, black staff. Slowly, deliberately; the hood is pulled away to reveal your own face looking back at you. <quote>Greetings, brother,</quote> sneers a voice identical to your own. <quote>We meet at last,</quote> it laughs, mockingly.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you walk towards the exit, an iron door slides shut in front of you, cutting off your access. There is only one other exit and you decide to investigate it rather than deal with the problem of the closed iron door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out the Glass Rod, unaware of its purpose or use. The guard looks at the Rod, then at you and, before you can stop him, he reaches out and snatches away the hood that covers your dark hair. Instantly he grabs you <!--ERRTAG-RE-281657-->and, within seconds, a<!--/ERRTAG-RE-281657--> large group of Elessin rushes out of a blue glass building and surrounds you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to try to fight your way to freedom, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you decide to surrender, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-282221-->point, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282221--> search for some warning of danger and discover that the door is locked to prevent something from getting out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295"><link-text>Turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the hole into total darkness and begin to fall. You try to scream but can make no sound. You are doomed to tumble forever in eternal silence, through a realm of nothingness.</p>
- <p>Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly, at first, a muted scream comes from deep within the frozen figure, growing in volume until it reaches a hideous roar. The dissonant wail freezes you to the spot. You cover your ears but you cannot block out the sound. The ground begins to tremble and the palace shudders and begins to fall. Within minutes you are crushed beneath shards of falling debris. You have released the Screaming God and the Singing City is no more.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shriek of the Elessi's <!--ERRTAG-RE-293617-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293617--> is the last sound you will ever hear. Clutching your tortured head in agony, you crumple and fall to the ground.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shape of monstrous proportions rears up and shoots a white-hot plume of dragon-fire at you, heralding your terrible and instantaneous death. In a huge and soaring ball of <!--ERRTAG-RE-284119-->flame, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-284119--> pass from this world, slain by the dragon that has been called to destroy you.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Jahksa has chosen to leave this realm and his body is dematerializing before your eyes. <quote>Thanks for the entertainment, Wizardling&ellips;</quote> he sneers as he <!--ERRTAG-RE-284624-->disappears, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-284624--> you hear his fading voice, <quote>we shall meet again.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I shall look forward to that,</quote> you say, through gritted teeth.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, Grey Star,</quote> says Tanith, <quote>we must speak with Oz-na-Mun if we are to find our way out of this place.</quote></p>
- <p>You find Oz-na-Mun in his shack. The gaunt-faced man looks up at you with solemn eyes. <quote>The evil one&emdash;has he gone?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes,</quote> says Tanith. <quote>He will not return.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Good. You have my sympathy, Grey Star. It must be a terrible trial to have a foe such as he.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>It is Shasarak who is the foe,</quote> you say, <quote>and he is cunning. For surely there is something that each of us fears in ourselves. What better opponent than a creature that wears my shape, knows my thoughts, and can anticipate my moves.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I hear that you seek the Moonstone,</quote> says Oz-na-Mun. You nod your reply. <quote>I have prepared a map for you. It will guide you to the Gate by which you can leave this realm. There is a mountain that lies nearby. It is called the Moaning Mountain because of the sound of the wind that blows through it. In the side of the mountain is a cavern: the Gate is there. The Gate leads to a place that people call the Vale of Peace. The people of the Vale are wise and kind and they will show you the way to the hidden realm of the Moonstone.</quote> He hands you the Cloth Map. (Mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; it can be carried in a small pocket inside your robe.)</p>
- <p>You bid farewell to Oz-na-Mun and return to the Ethetron. Soon you are heading for the Moaning Mountain and the Gate that will carry you from the Realm of Paradox to the Vale of Peace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head towards the gate and the Elessin guard regards you with a look of astonishment. He speaks to you but you can only shrug, for you do not understand. He offers no <!--ERRTAG-RE-286928-->threat, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286928--> bows, and with a welcoming sweep of his hand bids you pass through the gate. You enter a long avenue of crystal stones, alert for the slightest sign of danger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I will take what is mine,</quote> he says. He reaches out to take the Moonstone, a greedy gleam in his eyes. You have seconds in which to act.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to attack the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If not, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With one final effort you throw a further <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point into your attempt to reach Tanith. The effort is strenuous and also costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Your illusion is almost over and you begin to fear that you will fail but, as you reach your reunion with Tanith at the Shadow Gate, a glimmer of recognition lights in her eyes. <quote>Is it true?</quote> she whispers. <quote>Is it really true?</quote> Unsteadily, she climbs to her feet and walks towards you with slow, faltering steps. She stands before you and you sense that you have broken through the barrier that covered her mind. You reach out and draw her near to you.</p>
- <p><quote>It's me,</quote> you whisper.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> she sobs. <quote>I thought&ellips; it was in my mind&ellips; the Black Wizard, he had your face. He took me from the Crystal Tower and brought me here. The <!--ERRTAG-RA-298227-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-298227--> asked me what gift I desired and I asked for you, Grey Star. Then the <!--ERRTAG-RA-298227-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-298227--> told me that the Black Wizard was you and then my mind was full of hate and loathing. <!--ERRTAG-RE-288977-->I&ellips;<!--/ERRTAG-RE-288977--></quote></p>
- <p><quote>You don't have to explain; it's all right, I understand,</quote> you say. From outside the shack, a sneering voice sends an unnatural chill through your body.</p>
- <p><quote>How touching; how nice. Such understanding.</quote> The evil voice laughs, mockingly. You run outside to see a hooded figure in a black robe carrying a black staff. Slowly, deliberately, the hood is pulled aside to reveal your own face; your own eyes stare back at you as if you were looking into a mirror. <quote>Greetings, brother,</quote> says your voice, with a bitter laugh. <quote>We meet at last.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up the Key. As you go to place it in the lock, a terrifying sound freezes you to the spot. First, you hear the rattling of wings, then you see a looming shadow of huge proportions; it is a dragon of old! Green and scaly, the monstrous winged reptile hurtles towards you, its razor-like teeth bared to the sunless sky. A bright plume of flame trails from its mouth and the heat of the flame sears your face. In moments the dragon will be upon you. Bravely, you step forward and prepare to meet this terrifying challenge. <quote>Wait!</quote> screams Tanith. <quote>Let me deal with this!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to ignore Tanith and engage the dragon in close combat, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you decide to follow Tanith's advice, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect278-1-foot" idref="sect278-1"><p>If you left your Backpack in the Ethetron, you now regain access to it and all of the items therein.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are back in the Neverness; the bleak, sunless sky and the unending plane of grey cloud stretches away from you.<a id="sect278-1" idref="sect278-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Soon you sight the familiar shape of the Crystal Tower and land the craft close to its door. <quote>Spittlethrift!</quote> you shout. <quote>I have returned. Come, take your prize.</quote> A window in the tower opens and the face of Spittlethrift appears. He is ashen-grey and trembling with fear.</p>
- <p><quote>Go away!</quote> he calls. <quote>We've nothing else to give you. The girl&ellips; she was not ours to give in the first place.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>It is I, Grey Star,</quote> you shout. <quote>Open up. I have brought the Threnogem as I promised.</quote></p>
- <p>The little man stares down at you, shocked and afraid. <quote>But&ellips; but,</quote> he stammers, <quote>you have only just left, you&ellips; you were changed, so full of darkness and&ellips; this is not possible!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Let me in,</quote> you demand, <quote>or it will be the worse for you.</quote></p>
- <p>The window slams shut and after a short wait, Spittlethrift throws open the door. <quote>Is it really you?</quote> he asks, incredulous.</p>
- <p><quote>What has happened?</quote> you demand, growing angry. <quote>Where is Tanith? Return her to me!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>She is gone. You&ellips; or, should I say, someone like you was here but a short while ago. We could not understand the change in you, you had so much more power. We were afraid. We gave up the girl, even though the Threnogem had not been brought back to us.</quote></p>
- <p>After more questioning, you are able to piece together what happened while you were in the Realm of the Singing City. It seems that someone who looked exactly like you, clad in a black robe, came to the Crystal Tower. He had an evil countenance and was able to master the Academicians easily. They gave up Tanith to the Black Wizard and he left. He had been asking questions about the Realm of Paradox and one named Oz-na-Mun, the man with the mighty hand. It appears that he was on his way there. The Academicians say that he had no craft but was able to travel the realms at will.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If your Gyronome has been blessed by the Guardian of the Screaming God, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If it has not, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You seem to be attracting a great deal of attention. Many Elessin are watching you and some have even started to follow you along the street. A few Elessin children are pulling at your robe and some of the adults come forward to question you. They receive a helpless shrug in reply.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make a complete circuit of the beautiful city. There is no other gateway, although you notice a section of city wall, sheltered by an arch and covered with thick, blue foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to try to climb the city wall, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to enter the city through the city gate, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you possess a Mind Gem and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you possess the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to try to pass the guard undetected, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Chaos-birds are circling the becalmed Ethetron as Tanith chants over the Key. They draw together, ready to attack but then suddenly break into shrieks of alarm. Like you they can hear the rustle and flap of leathery wings beating the air. The birds are thrown into a panic as the howling dragon falls upon them. The Ethetron is buffeted as the dragon and the Chaos-birds battle in mid-air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I must refuse,</quote> you say to Spittlethrift. <quote>Mine is an urgent quest. The needs of many weigh heavily upon my shoulders.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Ah now,</quote> Spittlethrift replies. <quote>This is unfortunate.</quote> Suddenly, the many Academicians in the room rise as one and, before you can act, you and Tanith are held firmly by many hands and your Staff is snatched away.</p>
- <p><quote>Crabkey,</quote> calls Spittlethrift to the spindly man who now holds Tanith, his dagger at her heart, <quote>take the girl away.</quote></p>
- <p>You struggle against the restraining grip of the Academicians. <quote>If you so much as harm her&ellips; .</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, yes,</quote> says Spittlethrift, smoothly. <quote>Fear not.</quote> Tanith is led from the room. <quote>Our intention is merely to persuade you of the importance of our quest. She will be quite safe if you comply with our wishes.</quote></p>
- <p>You cast Spittlethrift a scowl. <quote>Very well. Since you offer me no choice&ellips; .</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Indeed, indeed. I thought you would see things our way. Now, come along&emdash;to the laboratory. I will show you the wondrous craft that will take you to the Singing City.</quote></p>
- <p>You are led to a high-ceilinged chamber, lit with a curious, pulsating light and containing many strange and ornate machines of gleaming metal. Having attended to the imprisonment of Tanith, Crabkey enters the laboratory.</p>
- <p><quote>Allow me to introduce you properly to Mr Crabkey,</quote> says Spittlethrift. In the lurid glow of the laboratory his shadowed, bulging eyes make him look more sinister than before. <quote>Mr Crabkey is the inventor of the machine that will enable you to make your journey, aren't you Crabkey, old chap?</quote> Crabkey stares at you with his large, baleful eyes. With a slow blink, he makes an unintelligible sound in the back of his throat and nods.</p>
- <p><quote>Here,</quote> says Crabkey, <quote>is the Ethetron.</quote> Mounted on a small dais in the centre of the laboratory is a most unusual machine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116"><link-text>Turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lack the strength to carry the heavy statue and struggle to bear its weight. Suddenly the Elessin cry out in alarm and rush to take the Statue from <!--ERRTAG-RE-297964-->you, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-297964--> before they reach you, the statue slips from your grasp and falls to the ground with a <onomatopoeia>crash</onomatopoeia>. The Threnogem rolls from the mouth of the statue and the Elessin throw themselves to the ground in abject terror.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your head is filled with the shrieking agony of the Elessi's <!--ERRTAG-RE-308930-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-308930-->. You lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Suddenly, the Elessi turns and runs back towards <!--ERRTAG-RE-298654-->the city<!--/ERRTAG-RE-298654-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Tanith at your <!--ERRTAG-RE-298974-->side, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-298974--> walk over and investigate one of the strange holes in the cloud. Peering in you see an absolute blackness, silent and still.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you wish to put your hand into the hole, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to enter the hole, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your final blow fells the Jahksa. He falls to the ground, a smile frozen on his lips, the Moonstone clenched in his hand. <quote>You think you have beaten me,</quote> his voice echoes. <quote>But I am you. You have slain yourself.</quote></p>
- <p>With the Moonstone, an instrument of truth, Shasarak's mockery of you has become truth. You have killed yourself.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect287-1-foot" idref="sect287-1"><p>You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith's ringing cry comes to your rescue. Her mastery over animals, taught to her by Mother Magri the Shadakine Wytch, saves you from the wolf. At her command, it shies away and lopes into the darkness.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep the Wolf Key, mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<!--ERRTAG-DE-300544/--></p>
- <p>You now have the choice of the remaining Keys; only one will let you into the Crystal Tower.<a id="sect287-1" idref="sect287-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you choose the Spider key, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you choose the Eagle Key, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose the Dragon Key, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose the Serpent Key, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have now used 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in your use of the Power of Prophecy. You soon come to the dwelling of Oz-na-Mun. He lives in a rough wooden shack within a circle of withered trees. Nearby, there is a vast pit of blood-red soil. You land the Ethetron and call out his name.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You show the guard the Parchment. He glares back at you and swiftly pulls the hood from your head, exposing your dark hair. He cries out and grabs your arm. Within <!--ERRTAG-RE-301797-->seconds, a<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301797--> large group of Elessin emerges from a blue glass building by the gate. You are quickly surrounded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to try to fight your way out, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to surrender, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corpse of a slain <!--ERRTAG-RE-302339-->Chaos-bird<!--/ERRTAG-RE-302339--> collides with the Ethetron and sends it spiralling through the air. You grab for the rail as the flying machine spins towards the Trianon and collides, throwing debris and machinery in all directions.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add that number to your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If the total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If the total is less than 9, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature facing you is called a Jahksa. It is a creation of Shasarak; an apparition in the likeness of a living spirit, in this case, yours. <quote>Are you afraid, Grey Star?</quote> taunts the Jahksa. <quote>There is nothing to fear but yourself,</quote> he sniggers.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Tanith appears at the door of the shack and looks at the two of you in bewilderment. She sways as if about to faint and you rush to her side. The Jahksa snorts derisively. <quote>How weak you are, Grey Star. Petty friendships, loyalties, and your honourable quest for the Shianti stone&emdash;how can you expect to defeat the Wytch-king, he who possesses the might of the Shianti and freedom from their foolish teachings, with such weaknesses?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>They are my strengths as <!--ERRTAG-RE-303897-->well, Jahksa<!--/ERRTAG-RE-303897-->,</quote> you reply, coolly.</p>
- <p>The Jahksa spits on the ground at your feet. <quote>That for your strength, Wizardling.</quote> He turns his back to you, then suddenly spins back, wielding a black staff in a wide arc. But you were expecting a trick and lift your Staff in time to block his blow. As the staves collide, their magical fire crackles and splits the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to fight the Jahksa, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tower wall is smooth and <!--ERRTAG-RE-304717-->sheer, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-304717--> the climb extremely difficult. Your progress is further hampered by the illusory nature of the tower: crevices and projections that appear to ornament the tower disappear from view when approached from a different angle.</p>
- <p>Just as you reach for a projection, you slip and plummet to the ground. The impact kills you immediately.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest are over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith points nearby to a clump of Laumspur, a healing herb. Chew on a clump of the fresh Laumspur to restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When evening comes you are still high on the sides of the valley. Far below, you can see a <!--ERRTAG-RE-305576-->settlement, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-305576--> rather than stumble in the dark, you decide to stay where you are and sleep in the warm, dry air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-306007-->points, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306007--> cast a magical veil around the Elessi's mind so that he will not see you passing. You creep out from behind the bushes and enter the city. Hypnotized, the Elessi continues to stare straight ahead, a blank expression on his face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a great roar, the door is thrown open and a huge, brown-skinned lizard moves out on to the landing. It has two stunted forelimbs that end in five-fingered hands and a <!--ERRTAG-RE-306695-->large, impassive<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306695-->, fish-cold eye in the middle of its head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you wish to turn and run, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to stand and face the lizard, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling wolf leaps and throws you to the ground. It inflicts a terrible bite, causing the loss of 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you are still <!--ERRTAG-RE-307328-->alive, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-307328--> must now fight the animal to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Wolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you have not beaten the wolf after three rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you beat the wolf within three rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staggering under the weight of the statue, you move towards the exit. The terrified Elessin hang back to let you pass, their faces full of fear. You leave the palace and view the long flight of stairs that leads from it with apprehension.</p>
- <p><thought>Please stop,</thought> pleads the voice that rings in your head. <thought>We mean you no harm&ellips; . What you are doing is madness!</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to do as he says, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you do not trust the Elessin and are determined to press on, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the corridor and eventually come to the bottom of a flight of stairs. You mount the steps and arrive at a landing. A cell door leads off it. It has been <!--ERRTAG-RE-308946-->locked, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-308946--> the key is still in the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you do not have this Power, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unsure that you can trust Spittlethrift, you draw on your Power of Prophecy and try to gain some further insight into the little man's offer. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you probe his mind. You sense that both lies and truths are contained within the Academician's words, though you sense that he means you no physical harm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to look into the future to try to find out more about your own possible fate (at the cost of 1 more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point), <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to refuse his request, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you wish to accept, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer the Ethetron along a dark tunnel in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-310431-->mountain, just<!--/ERRTAG-RE-310431--> wide enough to <!--ERRTAG-RE-310505-->accommodate<!--/ERRTAG-RE-310505--> the craft. An eerie moaning wind passes along the tunnel and you remember why the Moaning Mountain is so called. You see light at the end of the tunnel and, as you approach, a shimmering curtain of water. This is the Gateway to the Vale of Peace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the red jewel and pour the power of your thought into it. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> <!--ERRTAG-RE-311221-->point, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311221--> stun the Elessi's mind so that he will not see you passing. You then creep from the bushes and through the gate; the guard stares ahead, blankly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually you find yourself standing before the tall tower. Its strange, black walls glow with an eldritch quality that is both fascinating and unnerving. You can see no door to the tower but, just above head-height, there is a metal plate. Inscribed upon the plate are some strange symbols. <quote>What does it say?</quote> asks Tanith.</p>
- <p><quote>I do not know,</quote> you reply. <quote>It is written in a language that I do not recognize.</quote> Yet, even as you speak, the symbols on the metal plate <!--ERRTAG-RE-312052-->change, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312052--> you find that you can read the inscription after all:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>From south of here, to west and north,
-<br />Then east and south once more,
-<br />A circle's motion rings the charm
-<br />That finds the Vanishing Door.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You ponder the strange words, trying to determine their meaning. <quote>A riddle?</quote> queries Tanith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to search for a door on the left side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to search for a door on the right side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly, you drag the statue of the Screaming God from the Ethetron and <!--ERRTAG-RE-313221-->re-board<!--/ERRTAG-RE-313221--> the craft. You pull her into the air, gaining height with all the speed you can muster. A tingling sensation tells you that you are about to leave the Neverness; you glance back at the Crystal Tower. A chilling scream reaches your ears. It grows louder and louder and the tower begins to crumble. Suddenly you realize that you did not warn the Academicians of the peril of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-313663-->Screaming God<!--/ERRTAG-RE-313663-->. One of them must have taken the Threnogem from the statue and freed the demon. There is now nothing you can do to help as you pass into the Realm of Paradox.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The force of the impact sends you tumbling through the air. Then a hand grips yours: Tanith has caught you. She has a firm grip on the Trianon and soon pulls you up. <quote>How do we get inside?</quote> she asks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect305-1-foot" idref="sect305-1"><p>If you choose to keep them, note the Coins and a maximum of one Medallion as Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you choose to keep more than one Medallion, the rest must be carried in your Backpack where they take up one space each.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dead bodies of the Elessin lie all around you. Badly shaken by your ordeal, your head still ringing from the assault of the Elessin Pipes, you are too stunned to chase after the surviving Elessin and, instead, subject the bodies to a quick search. You find the following <!--ERRTAG-RA-323958-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-323958-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>3 Elessin Pipes</li>
- <li>3 Emerald Medallions</li>
- <li>1 Parchment covered with Elessin script</li>
- <li>1 Silver Coin</li>
- <li>1 Gold Coin</li>
- <li>2 Copper Coins</li>
- <li>1 Glass Rod</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may keep any of these <!--ERRTAG-RA-323958-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-323958--> (remember that you may carry a maximum of eight articles in your Backpack). Except for the Coins, which you carry in a pocket of your robe, and one of the Emerald Medallions, which may be worn around your neck, all the <!--ERRTAG-RA-323958-->items<!--/ERRTAG-RA-323958--> are carried in the Backpack.<a id="sect305-1" idref="sect305-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thank the Vale people for their kindness but insist that your quest is urgent and will brook no delay. You ask if they will show you to the Gateway to the Realm of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-315768-->Moonstone, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-315768--> they agree. That night they take you to the Silver Lake, which lies high in the mountains. They instruct you and Tanith to climb aboard the Ethetron and fly above the lake. As the night grows older, and the moon climbs higher in the sky, the waters are bathed in a beautiful shimmering light, like that of polished silver. Then, they say, must you fly into the lake itself, for it is the Gate and the moon its key.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Vale people take you to the Silver Lake which lies high in the mountains</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="641"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="641"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You do exactly as they say and when you reach the surface you discover no water at all; merely the passing touch of something as light as gossamer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the gate, the guard speaks to you in his own tongue. <quote>Meski?</quote></p>
- <p>A knot of panic twists in your stomach as you try to guess what he has said.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to nod your head and pass through the gate, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to shake your head and pass through the gate, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to try pointing behind you, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to say nothing and hurry through the gate, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staff raised in readiness for battle, you turn to attack the lizard. But one chilling glance from its cold and deadly eye transforms you to stone where you stand.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RA-328513-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-328513-->'s braying laughter fills the hall as he watches the stunned expression on your face. <quote>Are you not amused?</quote> he roars.</p>
- <p>You study your identical twin opposite and sense an aura of evil. It is a creation of Shasarak, sent to thwart your final bid to claim the Moonstone. In the Shianti language such a creature is known as a Jahksa, the spiritual apparition of one already living, a perversion of nature and a being of great evil. Without the human emotions of guilt, remorse and sorrow, a Jahksa has no conscience or morals, and is a passionless killer.</p>
- <p><quote>And now,</quote> intones the <!--ERRTAG-RA-328513-->Chaos-master<!--/ERRTAG-RA-328513-->, when the echo of his laughter has finally subsided, <quote>tell me what it is you seek?</quote> Carefully, you weigh in your mind what you should ask.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you possess a Cloth Map of the Moaning Mountain and wish to ask for Tanith to be returned to you, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you do not possess this Special Item but still wish to ask for Tanith's return and enquire how you may reach the Realm of the Moonstone, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, within the space of a heartbeat, the white-light horizon appears to turn inside out, its near and far sides interchanging. Then, with a lurch, you are hurled into a bright shaft and catapulted into a clear, sunlit sky. Wind rushes at your face and the land far below is as green and fresh as that in your own world. Buffeted by the wind, you struggle to control the Ethetron as it rocks and reels wildly in the wind-torn sky. Still dazed by the experiences of the past few minutes, you cannot help but manipulate the control clumsily.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Talisman of the Shianti, add 2 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total is now 4&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing exactly in the centre of the room. Anxiously you glance up at the lethal sword-points poised above your head. You are facing the stairway, with the smaller doorway to your left and the main entrance behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to step forward on to a two-sword flagstone, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to move diagonally to the left, on to a one-sword flagstone, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to move diagonally to the right, on to a one-sword flagstone, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to move towards the doorway on your left by stepping on to a two-sword flagstone, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The acid is very potent. Carefully, you pour it over the lock and watch with satisfaction as the iron lock bubbles and steams like boiling lava. In <!--ERRTAG-RE-321319-->moments, the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321319--> lock has melted clean away. You push the door open to reveal a narrow flight of stairs, leading downwards into blackness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to step forward, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to go back to the large stairway by stepping on the flagstone that bears one sword, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to go back to the large stairway by stepping on the flagstone that bears two swords, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You face impossible odds&emdash;you are outnumbered by over ten to one. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you slay the nearest Elessi with a rapid sweep of your Staff. But the other Elessin do not attempt to retaliate. Instead, one of them places a silver <!--ERRTAG-RE-333811-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-333811--> to his lips and blows. A savage pain echoes in your head and you fall to the ground with an agonized cry: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab Spittlethrift by the shoulders. <quote>The Realm of Paradox,</quote> you say, shaking him roughly; <quote>how do I get there?</quote> You shake the little man again.</p>
- <p>Dazed, he replies: <quote>We will adjust the Gyronome. It will take a little time.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I have no time. Perhaps the impostor has slain her already.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We will hurry,</quote> replies Spittlethrift, who scuttles off to see about the task.</p>
- <p>Time drags on inexorably. You pace the room until, eventually, Spittlethrift and Slypate return with the adjusted Gyronome and follow you to the Ethetron. Hastily, you drag the statue of the Screaming God from the craft and dump it at the tower door. Then you take to the air once more.</p>
- <p>Just as the tingling sensation that heralds the crossing of the realms begins, you hear a terrible sound in the distance. It is a moaning wail that chills your heart. Looking back, you see that the Crystal Tower is falling. Suddenly, you realize that you did not warn the Academicians of the peril of the Screaming God. One of them must have removed the Threnogem from the mouth of the statue. You can do nothing for them now. As you look away, your eyes are greeted by a strange sight: the Realm of Paradox.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you do not have this Power or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk towards the Singing City and its dazzling display of glass and fragmented light. Delicate spires point towards the sky and you can hear the distant ringing of countless tiny bells and a warm, resonant humming of shifting timbre, accompanied by pure harmonies that whisper like the breeze. You are stunned by the sheer splendour of the city. The Academicians told you that the Elessin were cruel <!--ERRTAG-RE-324990-->people, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-324990--> their dwelling suggests a purity and an advanced civilization.</p>
- <p>As you approach the city gate, you see an Elessi standing beneath the large, curving arch of crystal. He carries no weapon but he marches before the gate as if he were a guard. He has not seen you yet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to enter the city through this gate, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to try to find another way into the city, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you possess a Mind Gem and wish to use it to pass the guard undetected, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you possess the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it to pass the guard undetected, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><thought>I am the Guardian of the Screaming God,</thought> he says, the words ringing in your mind with a clear, musical tone. <thought>Before you continue with this madness, let me tell you of that which you seek to steal. You cannot know the danger of what you do.</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you agree to the Guardian's request, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you do not trust him, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Of one thing you are certain: Spittlethrift spoke the truth when he said that you cannot leave the Realm of the Neverness without his <!--ERRTAG-RE-326690-->help, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326690--> therefore you cannot complete your quest for the Moonstone without accepting the task they have appointed you. You see a vision of yourself, alone, standing upon a strange machine with a curiously shaped sail and a large glass dome at its centre. You wonder what has become of Tanith and why you journey alone. You have expended 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>With a mind crowded with doubts and uncertainties, you agree reluctantly to undertake the quest to steal the Threnogem. <quote>Good, good, marvellous,</quote> says Spittlethrift, joyfully. <quote>Come with me&emdash;to the laboratory.</quote></p>
- <p>Tanith shakes her head, the look in her eyes revealing her deep mistrust of Spittlethrift and his kin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly and carefully you step on to your chosen flagstone. Nothing happens and you breathe a sigh of relief.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you now wish to step on to the flagstone bearing one sword in front of the door, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to step on to the flagstone ahead of you bearing two swords, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to step on to the flagstone that is ahead and to the right bearing one sword, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>These chemicals, when mixed together with crystals, ground into a powder and then heated, produce a metal-destroying acid. If you do not have a Tinderbox, you must exert 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point in heating the mixture. If you have an empty <!--ERRTAG-RA-328700-->Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RA-328700-->, you may keep the <!--ERRTAG-RE-328777-->Ezeran Acid<!--/ERRTAG-RE-328777--> in it (mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). If you do not have an empty <!--ERRTAG-RA-328700-->Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RA-328700-->, you must use up all the acid on the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch as the Elessin head back towards their city. When they are a sufficient distance away, you follow, keeping out of sight. Their path leads you to the gate of the city and, crouching behind a bush, you watch as they enter.</p>
- <p>The city is a dazzling display of glass and crystal. Delicate spires and ivory towers point to the sky. You listen to the music of the city: a faint ringing like a million tiny bells and a warm, resonant bass accompanied by pure harmonies that sigh like a spring breeze. The Academicians told you that the Elessin are cruel <!--ERRTAG-RE-329826-->creatures, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329826--> their dwelling suggests purity and an advanced civilization. Beneath the curving crystal arch of the city gate, an Elessi stands. He has no <!--ERRTAG-RE-330026-->weapons, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330026--> he marches before the gate as if he were a guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to enter the city through this gate, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you decide to try to find another way into the city, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you possess a Mind Gem, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to try to pass the guard undetected, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With all the speed you can muster you sprint down the stairs and along the corridor of statues. Tanith is close behind as you rush into the room of mirrors. To your horror, an iron door falls to block your escape. You have no choice&emdash;you must turn and face the monster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263"><link-text>Turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an impetuous yell you hurl yourself at the Elessi. He falls to the ground and you wrestle desperately with each other. If you are fighting without your Wizard's Staff, you must deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total for the duration of the fight. If you possess a Jewelled Dagger, subtract only 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Elessi Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you have not defeated the Elessi after three rounds of <!--ERRTAG-RE-331983-->combat, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-331983--> still have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-332055-->greater<!--/ERRTAG-RE-332055--> <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total,<!--ERRTAG-AD-340775--> and wish to cease fighting,<!--/ERRTAG-AD-340775--> <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you kill the Elessi within three rounds, or choose to fight to the death, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kneel down and reach, tentatively at first, with your hand into the strange black gap in the clouds. Your hand totally disappears and you hastily withdraw it. You are unharmed. It is almost as if your hand had left this realm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to enter the black hole, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to explore any of the other gaps in the cloud, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you decide to continue towards the Crystal Tower, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes without incident. You feel refreshed and revitalized by your rest and you may restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. As you move on to the low ground, a vague feeling of disquiet stirs inside you. It is a familiar feeling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to continue, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out towards a Shianti rune carved deep into the wall. A door appears and opens slowly. You enter the Trianon and prepare to fulfil your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two deft blows knock aside the two Elessin that hold you. With a startled <!--ERRTAG-RE-334524-->cry, another<!--/ERRTAG-RE-334524--> Elessi backs away but a scything blow from your Staff kills him instantly. You have used 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The remaining Elessi places a slim, silver <!--ERRTAG-RA-346340-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-346340--> to his <!--ERRTAG-RE-334790-->lips, and suddenly your<!--/ERRTAG-RE-334790--> head is filled with a screaming pain as the high-pitched shriek of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-346340-->pipe<!--/ERRTAG-RA-346340--> tunnels into your mind.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If the total is 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If the total is more than 20, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For what seems like an <!--ERRTAG-RE-335454-->eternity, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335454--> fly over the Chaos Sea. Eventually, you sight a row of barren cliffs, black and forbidding. You increase the Ethetron's speed and soon you are flying overland.</p>
- <p>You sight a large quarry, dug out of the blood-red soil. You fly low and circle the huge quarry, noticing a small wooden shack at the centre of a copse of withered trees. You decide to land and investigate the shack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely you stand your ground, ready to receive the lizard's charge. But a single chilling glance from the lizard's deadly eye transforms your flesh to stone.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch down and reach your hand, tentatively at first, into the hole. It disappears totally and you hastily withdraw it. You are, however, unharmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to enter the black hole, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to return to the Crystal Tower and attempt to climb it, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The people of the Vale emit a great cheer. Fires throughout the village are already beginning to dwindle without the Jahksa there to stoke them afresh. The village elders ask if you would like to stay with them as honorary guest at a great feast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you wish to stay with them, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you feel that you must go, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no other gate to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-337667-->city, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-337667--> you are reluctant to try to bluff your way past the guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to try to climb a sheltered section of the city wall, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to try your luck at the city gate, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly, you hide the bodies of the Elessin in the undergrowth within the grove of trees. It is likely that the Elessin who escaped will raise the alarm and you carefully consider your next course of action: should you enter the Singing City as you are or should you adopt a disguise? To disguise yourself as an Elessi means leaving your Backpack behind. However, you must attempt to enter the city before evidence of your crime is discovered and that means that you cannot wait for nightfall to try to sneak into the city.</p>
- <p>Whatever decision you make, you now face great danger. You are an intruder in an unknown city, unfamiliar with the language or customs of its people and intent on stealing their most precious artefact.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you decide to disguise yourself as an Elessi, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you decide to attempt to enter the city as you are, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You show him the Gold Coin. He shakes his head and frowns as he speaks to you. He is becoming very suspicious. Once more he holds out his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to show him the Glass Rod, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to show him the Parchment, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you wish to show him the Silver Coin, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to show him the Copper Coin, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Staff and, with deadly accuracy, hurl a bolt of force at the golden-haired man. He is thrown to the ground, engulfed by a cloak of magical flame. Your attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. His Elessin guards cry out in <!--ERRTAG-RE-340344-->horror. There<!--/ERRTAG-RE-340344--> are ten of them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to attack the Elessin guards and possess more than 10 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to grab the statue, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lawn is bordered by a high wall of transparent glass: you have come to a dead end. Before you can take further evasive action, the Elessin surround and capture you. You are forced to surrender and they march you to a gigantic palace in the centre of the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The statues are disturbingly life-like. Each one is characterized by a tortured expression or pose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to continue, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and search the future with the power of your thought. Your Power of Prophecy tells you that the black gap in the clouds contains a fathomless void but reveals no more. The use of this Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to enter the black hole, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to put your hand into the hole, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you prefer to continue towards the Crystal Tower, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spend another day and night with these happy, simple people. The beauty of the vibrant valley is a welcome relief from the hardships of your quest, however worthy the cause. The time spent with the people of the Vale has a beneficial effect, restoring 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tanith radiates a happiness and gaiety that you have seldom seen before. You ask about the Gate that leads to the Realm of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-343220-->Moonstone, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343220--> the elders tell you of the Silver Lake.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>That night, you and Tanith are led up into the mountains to a large lake. They tell you to board the Ethetron and fly above the beautiful lake. Then, when the moon has climbed to its highest point in the sky you must fly into the water, for the lake is the Gateway to the Realm of the Moonstone and the light and power of the moon its key. You do as they <!--ERRTAG-RE-352392-->instruct, and with<!--/ERRTAG-RE-352392--> a wave, you dive towards the Silver Lake, but as you break the <!--ERRTAG-RE-343770-->surface, it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343770--> is not water that washes over <!--ERRTAG-RE-352553-->you but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-352553--> awe and wonder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Summoning the might of your Wizard's Staff, you hurl its power at the sheer, crystal surface of the tower wall. An arc of magical fire hurtles towards the wall but is deflected. The wall remains unharmed. You have expended 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point in your futile assault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to use another 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in a more concentrated attack against the wall, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to try to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to examine one of the many black gaps in the cloud plane, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With amazing <!--ERRTAG-RE-345017-->agility, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345017--> catch the Staff as it flies towards you and, in one swift, fluid movement, you whirl the Staff above your head and unleash a fiery bolt of magical flame at the Elessi. The blast throws him up in the air to fall to the ground beneath a plume of smoke. Your attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107"><link-text>Turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing at the start of a long corridor. There are more than a hundred doorways leading from this passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to explore the corridor, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Outnumbered by more than ten to one, you decide to surrender. Restrained by the Elessin guards, you are taken to a huge palace at the very heart of the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Amazingly, before you can unleash the final, killing blow, the Jahksa's body begins to fade, becoming more and more transparent.</p>
- <p><quote>Farewell, Wizardling. I will await you in the next realm,</quote> he <!--ERRTAG-RE-346677-->says, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-346677--> disappears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect344-1-foot" idref="sect344-1"><p>Make a note on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> that you have left your Backpack and all Backpack Items in the Ethetron. You will not have access to them again until you return to the Ethetron.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wonder if all the Elessin are fair-haired. Fortunately, one of them is wearing a kind of hood that you can use to disguise your own black hair. You don the loose-fitting toga of one of the Elessi and make sure that you have all the items they carried. <!--ERRTAG-RE-347181-->Unfortunately, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-347181--> will have to leave your Backpack <!--ERRTAG-RE-347273-->behind, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-347273--> you decide to keep your Staff in spite of the suspicion it may arouse.<a id="sect344-1" idref="sect344-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Satisfied that your disguise is as convincing as you can possibly make it, you set out for the Singing City.</p>
- <p>It is a beautiful sight: a dazzling display of glass and crystal, twinkling in the sun like a rainbow. Delicate spires and towers reaching for the sky in perfect symmetry. Then the music of the city reaches your ears: the faint ringing of a million tiny bells and a warm, resonant humming that changes pitch at various intervals to the accompaniment of pure harmonies as delicate as a spring breeze. You are awestruck by the magnificent splendour of the city. The Academicians told you that the Elessin are cruel creatures but this place suggests a civilization that appreciates beauty.</p>
- <p>At length, you arrive at the gate to the city. An Elessi stands beneath a large curving arch of crystal, dressed in similar clothes to yourself. He is probably a guard, although he carries no weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to enter the city through this gate, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you wish to try to find another way into the city, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a trance state and try to discover a future vision of <!--ERRTAG-RE-348837-->Tanith, but<!--/ERRTAG-RE-348837--> you can find no trace of her. Your vision urges you on another course: to seek the one called Oz-na-Mun, he of the mighty hand. Your destiny is somehow linked with that of this man and he will help you to find Tanith and leave this realm.</p>
- <p>If you wish to exert one more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you may use your vision to guide you to the place where Oz-na-Mun dwells.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to continue with your use of the Power of Prophecy, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Since you are unable to take the Threnogem from the statue's mouth, the only solution is to steal the whole statue. You approach the grotesque figure but, before you can attempt to lift it, you hear a voice echo urgently in your mind: <thought>Stop!</thought> it cries. Instinctively you spin round to see a tall figure draped in white. He holds a jewelled crozier high in his hands. He has the power of <!--ERRTAG-RE-350098-->telepathy, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-350098--> with it he is ordering you to remain where you are. A number of Elessin guards crowd close behind him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to attack the man, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to do as the man says, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you prefer to ignore him and pick up the statue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Closing your eyes, you send the power of your thought into the future in search of a clue that will help you find the door. The image that forms in your mind is identical to that of the plate bearing the inscription:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>From south of here, to west and north,
-<br />Then east and south once more,
-<br />A circle's motion rings the charm
-<br />That finds the Vanishing Door.</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Your Power of Prophecy is usually of more use than this, your visions of the future far clearer. You conclude that the door is masked by magic and that the inscription is the only clue that can help you find it.</p>
- <p>Frustrated, you read the inscription again. You have expended 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point; adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to search for a door on the right side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to search for a door on the left side of the tower, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to climb the tower, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to examine the wall immediately below the metal plate that bears the inscription, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take out the Silver Coin and show it to the guard. He makes an angry-sounding remark and slaps your hand away before repeating his demand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to show him the Glass Rod, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to show him the Parchment, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to show him the Gold Coin, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to show him the Copper Coin, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gently, you move forward, but as your foot steps on to the flagstone, a great broadsword falls from the ceiling, killing you instantly.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Triumphantly, the Jahksa deals a killing blow. You feel a searing pain tear through your body, but miraculously you are not slain. The Moonstone, instrument of judgement and truth, has made a reality of Shasarak's mockery of you. In killing you the Jahksa has killed itself. With a howl, the Jahksa dissolves into black shadows and returns to the spirit realm from whence it came.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With a thrill of <!--ERRTAG-RE-353877-->anticipation, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353877--> take up the Moonstone. It flares, as if in <!--ERRTAG-RE-353983-->recognition, at<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353983--> the touch of your hand. It glows with a warm, familiar feeling as it nestles in the palm of your hand. Tanith's eyes are wild and shining with triumph. You have fulfilled your pledge and completed the quest&ellips; almost. Armed with the might of the Moonstone, you now possess the only known power that could throw down the evil Wytch-king, Shasarak. But that is another story, and the day is yet to come.</p>
- <p>The final conflict in your fight against the Shadakine Empire is concluded in Book 4 of the Grey Star saga, <!--ERRTAG-RE-358789-->entitled<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358789-->:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Shadakine Empire</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acpowers.gif" width="386" height="143" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="achrbpch.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Calculate your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> based on the weapon that you are using.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>If using your Wizard's Staff, note the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to expend.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-357255-->Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat<!--/ERRTAG-RE-357255--> Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and <!--ERRTAG-RE-357407-->cross-reference<!--/ERRTAG-RE-357407--> to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. GS indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Grey Star.)</li>
- <li>Multiply the enemy's lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used.</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Grey Star loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data><p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-2974-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>BEYOND THE NIGHTMARE GATE</quote> with <quote><strong>Beyond The Nightmare Gate</strong></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-2974-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-3604-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>THE WORLD OF LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote><cite>The World of Lone Wolf</cite></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-3604-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="coming">Of the Coming of Grey Star</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-7321-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magicial</quote> with <quote>magical</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-7321-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-16506-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> To step through, <!--a idref="sect1"-->turn to 1<!--/a-->.</quote>, as the reader is not meant to pass by the rules sections..<!--/ERRTAG-DE-16506-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-DE-16714-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> at the front of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-16714-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-16788-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> If you run out of space, you can copy out the chart or have it photocopied.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-16788-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-17293-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> on the last page of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-17293-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-18846-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>adventure and</quote> with <quote>adventure, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-18846-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) Replaced <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote> and <quote>quarterstaff yet</quote> with <quote>quarterstaff, yet</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RA-20303-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>lesser magicks</quote> with <quote>Lesser Magicks</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20303-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-20262-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>magical powers</quote> with <quote>Magical Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-20262-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-20838-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-20838-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-20426-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>five powers</quote> with <quote>five Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-20426-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-21111-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>five or six powers</quote> with <quote>five or six Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-21111-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-21638-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power</quote> with <quote>Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21638-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-25052-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>alchemy</quote> with <quote>Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-25052-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-26064-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>prophecy</quote> with <quote>Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26064-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-26585-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>divination</quote> with <quote>Prophecy</quote> as in <a href="&link.01gstw;"><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite></a>, to avoid confusion.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26585-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>, <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote>, <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote> within the Herb Pouch contents list, <quote>notes but</quote> with <quote>notes, but</quote> and <quote>Shianti and</quote> with <quote>Shianti, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-39627-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-39627-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-42159-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on the page after the <!--a idref="random">Random Number Table</a--></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-42159-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-51976-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Spider key</quote> with <quote>Spider Key</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-51976-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-54254-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>feared by name;</quote> with <quote>feared by name:</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-54254-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-55764-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>that desired</quote> with <quote>that I desired</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55764-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-59122-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-59122-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-64782-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64782-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-64974-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipes</quote> with <quote>pipes</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64974-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-66987-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-66987-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-64119-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64119-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-68157-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-68157-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-72562-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>airborn</quote> with <quote>airborne</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72562-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-72678-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>combat</quote> with <quote>combat.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72678-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-77482-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>recognise</quote> with <quote>recognize</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-77482-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-76225-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>himself and</quote> with <quote>himself, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-76225-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-77047-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Elessi but</quote> with <quote>Elessi, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-77047-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect41">41</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-78999-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ethetron but</quote> with <quote>Ethetron, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78999-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-79202-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>point If</quote> with <quote>point. If</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-79202-ITEM--> Changed the last choice to lead to <a idref="sect165">Section 165</a> instead of <a idref="sect33">Section 33</a>, as <a idref="sect33">Section 33</a> does not fit into the context of the story here.<!--ERRTAG-RE-81878-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ethetron but, as</quote> with <quote>Ethetron, but as</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81878-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-82691-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bells the music</quote> with <quote>bells, the music</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-82691-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-82885-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>breeze and</quote> with <quote>breeze, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-82885-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-83049-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>creatures but</quote> with <quote>creatures, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-83049-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-86063-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal and</quote> with <quote>crystal, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-86063-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Changed the last choice to lead to <a idref="sect165">Section 165</a> instead of <a idref="sect33">Section 33</a>, as <a idref="sect33">Section 33</a> does not fit into the context of the story here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-88915-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>point you</quote> with <quote>point, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88915-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>)<!--ERRTAG-AD-95106-ITEM--> Added <quote> and wish to cease fighting,</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-95106-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-94429-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>brighter but</quote> with <quote>brighter, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94429-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-96703-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you but</quote> with <quote>you, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96703-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-100193-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Gate, out</quote> with <quote>Gate out</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100193-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-100594-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>&lsquot;payment&rsquot; you</quote> with <quote>&lsquot;payment&rsquot;, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100594-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-104225-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-104225-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-101244-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>attack but</quote> with <quote>attack, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101244-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Changed the last choice to lead to <a idref="sect165">Section 165</a> instead of <a idref="sect33">Section 33</a>, as <a idref="sect33">Section 33</a> does not fit into the context of the story here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-106632-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sluggisly</quote> with <quote>sluggishly</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-106632-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-115421-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Pipes</quote> with <quote>pipes</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-115421-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-114958-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>for ever</quote> with <quote>forever</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114958-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-115368-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115368-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-117992-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sucessfully</quote> with <quote>successfully</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-117992-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-124588-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipes</quote> with <quote>pipes</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-124588-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-124820-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-124820-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-125392-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>elessin</quote> with <quote>Elessin</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125392-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-125450-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>guards but</quote> with <quote>guards, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125450-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-130648-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Crabkey, is</quote> with <quote>Crabkey is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-130648-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-131603-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>embarassed</quote> with <quote>embarrassed</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131603-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-134180-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>aren't you Crabkey</quote> with <quote>aren't you, Crabkey</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-134180-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-135637-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>well&ellips; .</quote> with <quote>well&ellips;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135637-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-138019-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>strength and</quote> with <quote>strength, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-138019-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-140985-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>statue</quote> with <quote>Guardian</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-140985-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-144901-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A Short Sword</quote> with <quote>Short Sword</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-144901-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-145027-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A length of strong Rope</quote> with <quote>Length of strong Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145027-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-145125-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A potion of Healing</quote> with <quote>Potion of Healing</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145125-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-145293-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A Backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145293-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-145363-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>A Spear</quote> with <quote>Spear</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145363-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-148465-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-148465-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-148584-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>two weapons</quote> with <quote>two Weapons</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-148584-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-147044-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Staff <!--link-text-->turn</quote> with <quote>Staff, <!--link-text-->turn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147044-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-147195-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>vial of Ezeran acid</quote> with <quote>Vial of Ezeran Acid</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147195-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-147390-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ezeran salts</quote> with <quote>Ezeran Salts</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147390-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-147446-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147446-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-147504-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147504-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-147576-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pestle and mortar</quote> with <quote>Pestle and Mortar</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147576-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Changed the second choice to lead to <a idref="sect100">Section 100</a> instead of <a idref="sect302">Section 302</a>, as <a idref="sect100">Section 100</a> was previously not reachable and it fits well into the context of the story here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-149885-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magical power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149885-ITEM--> Moved the random number option last and <!--ERRTAG-RE-149665-ITEM--> replaced <quote>If you wish to</quote> with <quote>Otherwise, you will have to</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149665-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-153806-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bunch of Keys</quote> with <quote>Bunch of Keys</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-153806-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-153894-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Keys, mark them</quote> with <quote>Bunch of Keys, mark it</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-153894-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-154041-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> and carry them in your Backpack</quote> to avoid rules ambiguities.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-154041-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-162223-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-162223-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-164888-ITEM--> Replaced <quote><!--link-text-->turn to 83<!--/link-text--></quote> with <quote>you are forced to fight the Jahksa. <!--link-text-->Turn to 123<!--/link-text--></quote> in the last choice, as <a idref="sect83">Section 83</a> does not fit into the context of the story.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-164888-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-168224-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168224-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-165742-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>counter-spell</quote> with <quote>counterspell</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-165742-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-165856-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>foorce</quote> with <quote>force</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-165856-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-178663-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178663-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect147">147</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-172924-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>forseen</quote> with <quote>foreseen</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-172924-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-175943-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> It must be carried in your Backpack or you may give it to Tanith to carry, in which case note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-175943-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-176907-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>point you</quote> with <quote>point, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-176907-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-177792-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>dragon fire</quote> with <quote>dragon-fire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-177792-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-181681-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>roof-top</quote> with <quote>rooftop</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-181681-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-182734-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rooves</quote> with <quote>roofs</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-182734-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-182908-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>to154</quote> with <quote>to 154</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-182908-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-192805-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-192805-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-191971-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>weatherworking</quote> with <quote>weather-working</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-191971-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-194756-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Wise you</quote> with <quote>Wise, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194756-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-194882-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Shianti you</quote> with <quote>Shianti, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194882-ITEM--> Switched the order of the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Split the last two choices into separate paragraphs for formatting reasons.<!--ERRTAG-RE-196878-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>to104</quote> with <quote>to 104</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-196878-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-197810-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>it I</quote> with <quote>it, I</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197810-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-198717-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>restoring</quote> with <quote>restorative</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198717-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-198913-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these buds</quote> with <quote>these Buds</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198913-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199056-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>six Items</quote> with <quote>eight items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199056-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199139-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pestle and mortar</quote> with <quote>Pestle and Mortar</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199139-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199296-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>dose but</quote> with <quote>dose, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199296-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199365-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199365-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199440-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>potion</quote> with <quote>Potion</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199440-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199516-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>potions</quote> with <quote>Potions</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199516-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-199581-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>vials</quote> with <quote>Vials</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199581-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-204346-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>for ever</quote> with <quote>forever</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204346-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-204861-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cry but</quote> with <quote>cry, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204861-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-206493-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>white hot</quote> with <quote>white-hot</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-206493-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-207841-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>What?&rsquot;booms</quote> with <quote>What?&rsquot; booms</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-207841-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-208415-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>possibilites</quote> with <quote>possibilities</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-208415-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-215223-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-215223-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-210369-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Cautiously you</quote> with <quote>Cautiously, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-210369-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-216409-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> If you wish to carry it, it must be kept as a Backpack Item or you may give it to Tanith to carry, in which case remember to note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-216409-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect199">199</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-225840-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225840-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-220475-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>death and</quote> with <quote>death, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-220475-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-242218-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you possess the Magical Power of Sorcery, have more than 6 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points remaining, and wish to use your power to move the Ethetron</quote> with <quote>If you possess the Magical Power of Elementalism and wish to use it</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-242218-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-222913-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>point you</quote> with <quote>point, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-222913-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-231410-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-231410-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-225926-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you look</quote> with <quote>you a look</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225926-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-229317-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Elessin; inhabitants</quote> with <quote>Elessin, inhabitants</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229317-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-229962-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ethetron but</quote> with <quote>Ethetron, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229962-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-232522-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>careful Grey</quote> with <quote>careful, Grey</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-232522-ITEM--> Switched the order of the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-233688-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>it.!</quote> with <quote>it!</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-233688-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-235311-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the Elessi</quote> with <quote>only one Elessi</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-235311-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-244160-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-244160-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-246936-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>throat its</quote> with <quote>throat, its</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246936-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-251549-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>many coloured</quote> with <quote>many-coloured</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251549-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-251713-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>grotesque, but life-like, statue</quote> with <quote>grotesque but life-like statue</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251713-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-259054-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>telepath and, since</quote> with <quote>telepath, and since</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259054-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-253378-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>nothing and</quote> with <quote>nothing, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253378-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-254306-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> It must be kept as a Backpack Item or you may give it to Tanith to carry, in which case note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-254306-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-264258-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this Item</quote> with <quote>this item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264258-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-259504-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259504-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-259609-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Tanith still</quote> with <quote>Tanith, still</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259609-ITEM--> Switched the order of the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-264401-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pin-points</quote> with <quote>pinpoints</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264401-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-261276-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>lips and</quote> with <quote>lips, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-261276-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-270869-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-270869-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-263451-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>time or</quote> with <quote>time, or</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-263451-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-271107-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271107-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-264296-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>alone I</quote> with <quote>alone, I</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264296-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-265340-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>introduce&ellips; .</quote> with <quote>introduce&ellips;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265340-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-265518-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Star and the</quote> with <quote>Star, and the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265518-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-265887-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Academicians all</quote> with <quote>Academicians, all</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265887-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-265963-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>names you</quote> with <quote>names, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265963-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-266156-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Academician's</quote> with <quote>Academicians'</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-266156-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-268334-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>think m'boy</quote> with <quote>think, m'boy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-268334-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-269228-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>nothing and</quote> with <quote>nothing, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269228-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-269749-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>us Grey</quote> with <quote>us, Grey</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-269749-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-270512-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>them but</quote> with <quote>them, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-270512-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-278140-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>surprise the</quote> with <quote>surprise, the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-278140-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-279356-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>apprehensive you</quote> with <quote>apprehensive, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-279356-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-281657-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>and within seconds a</quote> with <quote>and, within seconds, a</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-281657-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-282221-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>point you</quote> with <quote>point, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282221-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-293617-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293617-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-284119-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>flame you</quote> with <quote>flame, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-284119-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect273">273</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-284624-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>disappears and</quote> with <quote>disappears, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-284624-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect274">274</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-286928-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>threat but</quote> with <quote>threat, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286928-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-288977-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>I&ellips; .</quote> with <quote>I&ellips;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-288977-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-298227-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-298227-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-297964-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you but</quote> with <quote>you, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-297964-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-298654-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>he city</quote> with <quote>the city</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-298654-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-308930-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-308930-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-298974-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>side you</quote> with <quote>side, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-298974-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-300544-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> It must be kept as a Backpack Item or you may give it to Tanith to carry, in which case note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-300544-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-301797-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>seconds a</quote> with <quote>seconds, a</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-301797-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-302339-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos bird</quote> with <quote>Chaos-bird</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-302339-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-303897-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>well Jahksa</quote> with <quote>well, Jahksa</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-303897-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-304717-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sheer and</quote> with <quote>sheer, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-304717-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-305576-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>settlement but</quote> with <quote>settlement, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-305576-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-306007-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>points you</quote> with <quote>points, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306007-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-306695-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>large impassive</quote> with <quote>large, impassive</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306695-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-307328-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>alive you</quote> with <quote>alive, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-307328-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-308946-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>locked but</quote> with <quote>locked, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-308946-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-310431-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>mountain just</quote> with <quote>mountain, just</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-310431-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-310505-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>accomodate</quote> with <quote>accommodate</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-310505-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-311221-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>point you</quote> with <quote>point, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311221-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-312052-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>change and</quote> with <quote>change, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312052-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-313221-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>reboard</quote> with <quote>re-board</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-313221-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-313663-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Screaming Statue</quote> with <quote>Screaming God</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-313663-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-323958-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-323958-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-315768-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Moonstone and</quote> with <quote>Moonstone, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-315768-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-328513-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Chaos-Master</quote> with <quote>Chaos-master</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-328513-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-321319-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>moments the</quote> with <quote>moments, the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321319-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-333811-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-333811-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-324990-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>people but</quote> with <quote>people, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-324990-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect317">317</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-326690-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>help and</quote> with <quote>help, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326690-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-328700-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-328700-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-328777-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ezeran acid</quote> with <quote>Ezeran Acid</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-328777-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-329826-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>creatures but</quote> with <quote>creatures, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329826-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-330026-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>weapons but</quote> with <quote>weapons, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330026-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-331983-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>combat but</quote> with <quote>combat, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-331983-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-332055-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>greatest</quote> with <quote>greater</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-332055-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-AD-340775-ITEM--> Added <quote> and wish to cease fighting,</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-AD-340775-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-334524-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cry another</quote> with <quote>cry, another</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-334524-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-334790-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>lips and, suddenly, your</quote> with <quote>lips, and suddenly your</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-334790-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-346340-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Pipe</quote> with <quote>pipe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-346340-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-335454-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>eternity you</quote> with <quote>eternity, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335454-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-337667-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>city and</quote> with <quote>city, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-337667-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-340344-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>horror, there</quote> with <quote>horror. There</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-340344-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-343220-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Moonstone and</quote> with <quote>Moonstone, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343220-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-343770-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>surface it</quote> with <quote>surface, it</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343770-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-352553-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you, but</quote> with <quote>you but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-352553-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-352392-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>instruct and, with</quote> with <quote>instruct, and with</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-352392-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-345017-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>agility you</quote> with <quote>agility, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345017-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-346677-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>says and</quote> with <quote>says, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-346677-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-347181-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Unfortunately you</quote> with <quote>Unfortunately, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-347181-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-347273-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>behind but</quote> with <quote>behind, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-347273-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-348837-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Tanith but</quote> with <quote>Tanith, but</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-348837-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-350098-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>telepathy and</quote> with <quote>telepathy, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-350098-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-353877-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>anticipation you</quote> with <quote>anticipation, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353877-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-353983-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>recognition at</quote> with <quote>recognition, at</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353983-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-358789-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>titled</quote> with <quote>entitled</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358789-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Added a fourth step <quote>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</quote> in the first step list.<!--ERRTAG-RE-357255-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Turn to <!--a idref="crtable"-->Combat</quote> with <quote>Turn to the <!--a idref="crtable"-->Combat</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-357255-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-357407-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-357407-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) This section of the rules implies that you must re-pick all three scores&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>&emdash;even though you may have already completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books and therefore appears to be a mistake. In order to preserve rule consistency among the books, you may choose to retain your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores and only re-pick you <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) If you have completed book two but not book one, it seems reasonable to add 25 to the number you picked.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) There are sections in the <cite>Grey Star</cite> books that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in Section 175 of <cite><a href="&link.04wotw;">War of the Wizards</a></cite>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Powers again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Powers again. If you have have completed at least one previous adventure, you may choose one additional Power from the list. If you choose Alchemy as your new Magical Power, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the <a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a> section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) If you have completed a previous adventure, you keep all equipment you had at the end of that adventure. You do not receive any new equipment, unless you have just selected Alchemy as your sixth Magical Power, in which case you receive a Herb Pouch with contents as indicated in this section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect78">78</a>) As you are using your Power of Elementalism against the Chaos-birds, you should deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) If the Elessi leader has been holding your Wizard's Staff until now, you can now take it back.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) If you have already opened this door, you do not need to do it again. If you have opened the door but chosen <em>not</em> to step through it, you can now choose to do so (turn to <a idref="sect125">125</a>), or to walk back to the large stairway (turn to <a idref="sect239">239</a>). If you have both opened and ventured inside the door, you must turn to <a idref="sect239">239</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. This appears to be an oversight which is not easily correctable.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) As you are using your Wizard's Staff against the Jahksa, you should deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) You must choose whether to keep the individual buds or to mix potions from them. You may not do both.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. This appears to be an oversight which is not easily correctable.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Remember that you may only use those Keys you possess.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect240">240</a>) You may keep any Keys that you have already noted on your Action Chart. You may also keep any Keys that you have not used&emdash;which might be the Eagle Key, the Wolf Key, the Spider Key and/or the Dragon Key. List all Keys to the Crystal Tower as a single Backpack Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (noting which Keys are included). If you do not want to carry the Keys in your Backpack, you can let Tanith carry them, but you must then note down that you cannot access them if Tanith is not with you.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect278">278</a>) If you left your Backpack in the Ethetron, you now regain access to it and all of the items therein.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) You may only choose a Key that you have not already tried.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) If you choose to keep them, note the Coins and a maximum of one Medallion as Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you choose to keep more than one Medallion, the rest must be carried in your Backpack where they take up one space each.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Make a note on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> that you have left your Backpack and all Backpack Items in the Ethetron. You will not have access to them again until you return to the Ethetron.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect12">Section 12</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect45">Section 45</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect47">Section 47</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect50">Section 50</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect56">Section 56</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect60">Section 60</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect75">Section 75</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect94">Section 94</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect105">Section 105</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect116">Section 116</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect122">Section 122</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect138">Section 138</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect160">Section 160</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect174">Section 174</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect214">Section 214</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect215">Section 215</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect216">Section 216</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect241">Section 241</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect250">Section 250</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect306">Section 306</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Shadakine Empire</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect14">14</a>, <a idref="sect32">32</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect26">26</a>, <a idref="sect77">77</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect59">59</a>, <a idref="sect182">182</a>, <a idref="sect338">338</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect67">67</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect163">163</a>, <a idref="sect179">179</a>, <a idref="sect236">236</a>, <a idref="sect255">255</a>, <a idref="sect265">265</a>, <a idref="sect276">276</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect211">211</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect228">228</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect247">247</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect291">291</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect350">350</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
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-Revision 1.10 2007/05/12 18:20:22 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.9 2007/05/12 17:59:51 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.6 2007/05/07 22:53:56 jonathan.blake
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-
- <meta>
- <title>The Caverns of Kalte</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">
- <line>Joe Dever</line>
- <line>Illustrated by Gary Chalk</line>
- </creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.gary.chalk.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2007</year><month>5</month><day>11</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>last of the Kai Lords. You have defeated the Darklords and saved your land from their devastation. But Vonotar the Traitor has escaped to the frozen wastes of Kalte and now rules over the Ice Barbarians. Your people demand that Vonotar be made to pay for his treachery. So great is the outcry that the King is obliged to promise that the evil traitor will be brought back to Holmgard, and made to stand trial for his crimes. For you, Lone Wolf, the King<ch.apos/>s promise is the start of a quest that will pit you against a hated foe, deep within the dangerous Caverns of Kalte.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">
- <line>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.</line>
- <line>Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.</line>
- </rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>
- <line>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever.</line>
- <line>Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Gary Chalk.</line>
- <line>Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</line>
- </p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">For Caroline Sheldon</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Daniel Nash</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Jonathan Blake</line>
- <line>Paul Haskell</line>
- <line>Simon Osborne</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Jonathan Blake</line>
- <line>Jeff Dougan</line>
- <line>Oblio Leitch</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>JC Alvarez (action charts)</line>
- <line>Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)</line>
- <line>Michael Hahn (map)</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Simon Osborne (Sections 1<ch.endash/>70 and 281<ch.endash/>315)</line>
- <line>Vito Trifilo (sections 71<ch.endash/>105, 141<ch.endash/>280, and 316<ch.endash/>350</line>
- <line>Tony Wrigley (Sections 106<ch.endash/>140)</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>
- <line>Mike Feldman</line>
- <line>Ingo Kl<ch.ouml/>cker</line>
- <line>Mark Laird</line>
- <line>LeRoy McSwain</line>
- <line>Simon Osborne</line>
- <line>Thomas Wolmer</line>
- </dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Scott Ferguson, James Marshall, Peter Smyth</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the northern land of Sommerlund, it had been the custom for many centuries to send the children of the Warrior Lords to the monastery of Kai. There they were taught the skills and disciplines of their noble fathers.</p>
- <p>You are Lone Wolf, and you are now the last of the Warrior Lords of Sommerlund. One year ago, the ancient enemy of your people<ch.emdash/>the Darklords of Helgedad<ch.emdash/>suddenly invaded Sommerlund and completely devastated the Kai monastery. All of the Kai warriors were in attendance for the feast of Fehmarn, and all except you were massacred.</p>
- <p>You fought your way to Holmgard, the capital of your country, where the King sent you upon a desperate quest for help. Your mission was fraught with great danger, for Sommerlund had been betrayed by one of its own magicians<ch.emdash/>Vonotar the Traitor. His agents sought to kill you at every opportunity, but your skill and strength defeated their evil aims. You returned to Holmgard at the head of a great fleet<ch.emdash/>the allies of Durenor<ch.emdash/>and destroyed the Darklord army that besieged your capital.</p>
- <p>Much of Sommerlund was ruined by the war. The rich farmlands were laid waste and many towns were razed to the ground. But the Sommlending are a tough people and were undaunted by the enormous task that lay ahead. They set about the rebuilding of war-torn Sommerlund with such determination that now, one year later, few of the scars of war remain visible.</p>
- <p>For the crucial part that you played in the victory, the King has bestowed upon you the rank and title of <ch.apos/>Fryearl of Sommerlund<ch.apos/>, a rare honour for one so young. The ruins of the Kai monastery and much of the surrounding lands are now <ch.apos/>Fryelund<ch.apos/> under your protection.</p>
- <p>Work to rebuild the monastery was about to commence when disturbing news from the north prompted the King to summon you to the capital. Many merchants, returning from the summer trading expeditions to Kalte, told of the fall of the Brumalmarc<ch.emdash/>the leader of the Ice Barbarians. The description of the hunchbacked magician who has succeeded the fierce Brumalmarc fits only one man<ch.emdash/>Vonotar the Traitor.</p>
- <p>After the defeat of the Darklords, Vonotar escaped to the frozen wastes of Kalte. He made his way to the ice fortress of Ikaya where, through deception, he tricked the cruel Brumalmarc into adopting him as his magician. It was a mistake that was to cost the barbarian leader his fortress and his life.</p>
- <p>The news that Vonotar still lives spreads like wildfire throughout Sommerlund. Thousands of Sommlending surround the capital and demand that Vonotar be made to pay for his treachery. So great is the outcry that the King is obliged to promise that the evil traitor will be brought back to Holmgard, and made to stand trial for his crimes.</p>
- <p>For you, Lone Wolf, the King<ch.apos/>s promise is the start of a quest that will pit you against a hated foe, deep within the hostile Caverns of Kalte.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord you have developed fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it <!--ERRTAG-RE-10410-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-10410--> the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points <!--ERRTAG-RE-12477-->fall to zero or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12477-->, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never go above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you will already have your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and Kai Disciplines which you can now carry over with you to Book 3. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items that you held at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You may choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Kai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf adventure you have successfully completed; then read the <a idref="equipmnt">section on equipment</a> for Book 3 carefully.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over the centuries, the Kai monks have mastered the skills of the warrior. These skills are known as the Kai Disciplines, and they are taught to all Kai Lords. You have learnt only five of the skills listed below. The choice of which five skills these are, is for you to make. As all of the Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your perilous quest, pick your five with care. The correct use of a Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your five Disciplines, enter them in the Kai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="camflage">
- <meta><title>Camouflage</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Kai Lord to blend in with his surroundings. In the countryside, he can hide undetected among trees and rocks and pass close to an enemy without being seen. In a town or city, it enables him to look and sound like a native of that area, and can help him to find shelter or a safe hiding place.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Camouflage</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hunting">
- <meta><title>Hunting</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Lord will never starve in the wild. He will always be able to hunt for food for himself except in areas of wasteland and desert. You are aware that most of Kalte is an icy desert and that opportunities for successful hunting will not arise. But this skill is still very useful for it also enables a Kai Lord to move with great speed and dexterity.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Hunting</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sixthsns">
- <meta><title>Sixth Sense</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Lord of imminent danger. It may also reveal the true purpose of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tracking">
- <meta><title>Tracking</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to make the correct choice of a path in the wild, to discover the location of a person or object in a town or city and to read the secrets of footprints or tracks.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Tracking</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="healing">
- <meta><title>Healing</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline can be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in combat. If you possess this skill you may restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to your total for every numbered section of the book you pass through in which you are not involved in combat. (This is only to be used after your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) Remember that your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> cannot rise above its original level.</p>
-
- <p>If you choose this skill write <quote>Healing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wepnskll">
- <meta><title>Weaponskill</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Kai monastery, each initiate is taught to master one type of weapon. If Weaponskill is to be one of your Kai Disciplines, pick a number in the usual way from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and then find the corresponding weapon from the list below. This is the weapon in which you have skill. When you enter combat carrying this weapon, you add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = Dagger</li>
- <li>1 = Spear</li>
- <li>2 = Mace</li>
- <li>3 = Short Sword</li>
- <li>4 = Warhammer</li>
- <li>5 = Sword</li>
- <li>6 = Axe</li>
- <li>7 = Sword</li>
- <li>8 = Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>9 = Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with a weapon does not mean you set out on the adventure carrying that particular weapon. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons in the course of your adventures. You cannot carry more than 2 weapons.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponskill in <ch.blankline/> +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points if this weapon carried</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindshld">
- <meta><title>Mindshield</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Vonotar and many of the evil creatures under his command have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Kai Discipline of Mindshield prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindshield: no points lost when attacked by Mindblast</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mndblst">
- <meta><title>Mindblast</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This enables a Kai Lord to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used at the same time as normal combat weapons and adds two extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Not all the creatures encountered on this adventure will be harmed by Mindblast. You will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlknsp">
- <meta><title>Animal Kinship</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to communicate with some animals and to be able to guess the intentions of others.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindomtr">
- <meta><title>Mind Over Matter</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Discipline enables a Kai Lord to move small objects with his powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mind Over Matter</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 3 of Lone Wolf, you may add a further Kai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <bookref series="lw" book="04tcod">Book 4</bookref>. This additional skill, together with your six or seven other skills and any Special Items that you have picked up in Books <bookref series="lw" book="01fftd">1</bookref>, <bookref series="lw" book="02fotw">2</bookref> and <bookref series="lw" book="03tcok">3</bookref>, may then be used in the next adventure of the Lone Wolf series which is called <bookref series="lw" book="04tcod"><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite></bookref>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving the northern port of <!--ERRTAG-RE-22585-->Anskaven<!--/ERRTAG-RE-22585-->, you are escorted to the City Hall and equipped with special winter boots, a tunic, a fur-lined cloak and mittens. You are given a <a idref="map">Map of Kalte</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you may now enter this number in the <ch.apos/>Gold Crowns<ch.apos/> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total of any Crowns you may already possess. Remember you can only carry fifty Crowns.)</p>
- <p>Before you set sail, you are given the choice of the following items (in addition to those you already possess, but remember you may only carry two weapons). You may take any two of the following:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Short Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Padded Leather Waistcoat (Special Items). This adds 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="plw.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="plw.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Warhammer (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items). This restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is only enough for one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Special Rations (Meals). This counts as one meal. (See <quote>How to Use Your Equipment</quote> before deciding)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Broadsword (Weapons)</p></li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the two items you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You don<ch.apos/>t need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Short Sword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Padded Leather Waistcoat<ch.emdash/>worn on the body.</li>
- <li>Spear<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Mace<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Warhammer<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Axe<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur<ch.emdash/>carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Special Rations<ch.emdash/>carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Broadsword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill and the correct weapon, it adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry eight items in your Backpack at once.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Sommerlund is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Gold is especially valuable in Kalte, and you may find that your Gold Crowns will be useful, especially if used as a bribe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Stored on your ice-sledge, along with your tent and other equipment, is enough food for you to complete your mission. If this food, or any you may have in your Backpack, is unavailable to you when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. As Kalte is an icy desert you will be unable to use the Kai Discipline of Hunting to obtain a Meal (see <quote>Hunting</quote> in the <a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a> section).</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is only enough for one dose. If you discover any other potions during the adventure, you will be informed of their effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows.</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Kai Disciplines to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is ambushed by a Winged Devil (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but must stand and fight as the creature swoops down on him. Lone Wolf has the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, to which the Winged Devil is not immune, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 17.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Winged Devil<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.minus/>3. (17 <ch.minus/> 20 = <ch.minus/>3). <ch.minus/>3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and Winged Devil has been established as -3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- <li>Winged Devil loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are bestowed upon Kai Lords at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf series, you will gain an additional Kai Discipline and gradually progress towards mastery of the ten basic Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Novice</li>
- <li>Intuite</li>
- <li>Doan</li>
- <li>Acolyte</li>
- <li>Initiate<ch.emdash/>You begin the Lone Wolf adventures with this level of Kai training</li>
- <li>Aspirant</li>
- <li>Guardian</li>
- <li>Warmarn or Journeyman</li>
- <li>Savant</li>
- <li>Master</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Beyond the ten basic skills of the Kai Master await the secrets of the higher Kai Disciplines or <quote>Magnakai</quote>. By acquiring the wisdom of the Magnakai, a Kai Lord can progress towards the ultimate achievement and become a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission will be fraught with great danger, for Kalte is a bleak and hostile land and your foe is a master of cunning. Use the <a idref="map">map</a> to help you plot your course to the ice fortress of Ikaya. Make notes as you progress through the story, for they will be of great help in future adventures. Many things that you find will aid you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>There are many routes to the ice fortress of Ikaya, but only one will enable you to capture Vonotar and return to Sommerlund with the minimum of danger. A wise choice of Kai Disciplines and a great deal of courage should enable any player to complete the mission, no matter how weak his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> or <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures is not essential for the success of this quest.</p>
- <p>The betrayal of your country can be avenged by bringing the traitor to justice.</p>
- <p>Good Luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Even before you accepted the task of bringing Vonotar to justice, preparations were being made for your voyage to Kalte. The captain of the Sommlending warship <cite>Cardonal</cite>, having returned from a long Kaltersee patrol, was ordered to await your arrival at <!--ERRTAG-RE-38180-->Anskaven<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38180-->. During the night, food, ice equipment and Kanu-dog teams were taken on board. The mission was highly secret<ch.emdash/>only senior members of the crew were told the true nature of the voyage that lay ahead.</p>
- <p>The plan is to set you ashore at Halle Bluff, drop anchor and await your return. An <ch.eacute/>lite team of trusted guides will lead you from the bluff to Ikaya. Once inside the ice fortress, you are to hunt down and capture Vonotar, and then return with your guides to the ship. Your mission must be accomplished within thirty days at most, for winter is closing in and no ship can withstand the grip of the Kalte pack-ice. If you do not return in time, the captain will be forced to set sail without you.</p>
- <p>For six days, the <cite>Cardonal</cite> sails across the stormy Kaltersee without running into a storm; but every day the temperature steadily drops until a layer of ice covers the decks. On the morning of the seventh day, the snow-capped island of Tola is sighted on the horizon. Soon after, a light wind rises from the west.</p>
- <p>At first, there appears to be little danger, but within half an hour a furious blizzard is blowing, and all sight of land quickly vanishes in the scudding drift. All day the furious gale rages. Tremendous winds slice the tops of the huge grey waves and water crashes over the decks, masts and rigging of the ship, freezing almost immediately into solid ice. The sides of the ship become several feet thick with sea water. It is not until early evening that the weather clears, and although the wind still blows strongly, the force of the gale is spent.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You are soon to discover that the gale has blown the ship nearly thirty miles off course, along the lip of the Ljuk ice shelf. You know that to return to Halle Bluff would waste a precious day, so you decide to land on the ice shelf and start your mission from there.</p>
- <p>As the last of the Kanu-dogs are carried ashore, your guides tell you of the two possible routes to Ikaya from here. The first route involves a hundred and thirty mile trek to Cloudmaker Mountain and then, following the difficult terrain of the Viad Glacier, a further hundred miles must be covered before you arrive at the ice fortress. The alternative route involves a longer journey of nearly one hundred and eighty miles into the Hrod Basin, followed by a trek of a hundred miles through Storm Giant Pass to Ikaya. Even if the weather and your luck hold good, either route will involve ten days of hard trekking before you reach your goal. You should consult the <a idref="map">map of Kalte</a> before making your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you wish to attempt the shorter, but more difficult Viad Glacier route, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to take the longer, but easier Hrod Basin and Storm Giant Pass route, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your right, you notice that a stone door is cunningly concealed by an intricate wall carving. A close examination of the carving reveals a lever.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to pull this lever, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you do not wish to pull the lever, you may continue climbing the stairs by <link-text>turning to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch with a mixture of fascination and revulsion as each segment of the creature shatters and then slowly dissolves into the ice. Soon, all that remains of the Crystal Frostwyrm are the undigested contents of its stomach. To your surprise, in the centre of this mess of fetid flesh and bone, you can see the shank of a Silver Key.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to take this Key, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you would rather ignore it and look for a way to open the fortress door, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect4-1-foot" idref="sect4-1">
- <p>It may not make much sense to record this particular Bone Sword as a Special Item, considering that all other Bone Swords in this book are recorded as normal Weapons.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hide the body under the staircase and quickly search it. You discover a Bone Sword and a Blue Stone Disc. If you wish to keep either or both of these items, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Special Items<footref id="sect4-1" idref="sect4-1-foot"/>. You leave the body and run quickly up the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see two men in ragged clothes, huddled together beside a fire that seems to be burning inside a small metal bowl. Over the flames, the skinned carcass of a small animal is roasting on a spit. The men are old and toothless, and they have a strange glint of madness in their slanted eyes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Two men in ragged clothes are huddled together beside a small fire</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="654" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="654" />
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to approach them and ask for some of their food, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to attack them, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to ignore them and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You advance into the darkness, feeling ahead with your weapon for any obstruction. For some distance, the tunnel continues northwards before turning sharply to your right. A few feet ahead, you can now see light streaming from another portal. Beyond this a staircase descends into the dark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to look through the portal, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to continue towards the stairs, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the black slab explodes into hundreds of razor-sharp splinters of stone. Your back is grazed and your ears ring, but otherwise you are unharmed. By taking refuge in the corner of the chamber, you have escaped serious injury. It now seems apparent that the monolith was designed to guard against or ensnare trespassers. A powerful glyph, a spell of protection, must have been placed upon it by an ancient mage.</p>
- <p>As the black dust slowly settles, you notice that a panel in the north wall has opened to reveal a darkened exit from the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to try this exit, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to try to open the door by which you entered, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect8-1-foot" idref="sect8-1">
- <p>You may wish to note the fact that you have put on this oil on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. However, it does not take the space of any item and only affects you for the duration of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The smell is revolting, and you try desperately to hold your breath as you smear handfuls of the slimy grease inside your jacket. As the oil penetrates your skin, you feel a warm glow as if you were near a fire: the more grease you apply, the warmer you become. You also notice that the awful smell is gradually fading.<footref id="sect8-1" idref="sect8-1-foot"/></p>
- <p><quote>When it soaks into your skin, you lose your sense of smell,</quote> says Fenor.</p>
- <p><quote>Just as well,</quote> replies Dyce. <quote>I don<ch.apos/>t think I could stand living with myself otherwise!</quote></p>
- <p>Baknar oil gives excellent insulation from the bitter cold of Kalte, and it may save you valuable <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the near future.</p>
- <p>Irian regains consciousness and is soon scooping out the Baknar carcass for himself. Light is now fading fast and you decide to pitch camp in this narrow pass. You prepare a meal, and then you each take it in turns to sit watch, just in case the Baknar decide to return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You desperately fight against the agonizing pain, but it is so intense that you soon lose consciousness, and within a few minutes your will has been completely drained<ch.emdash/>you have become a helpless slave, unable to resist Vonotar<ch.apos/>s psychic commands. He orders you to pick up the Ice Barbarian<ch.apos/>s sword and draw it across your throat. Powerless to resist, you kill yourself with one quick flick of your wrist.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life come to a tragic end.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect10-1-foot" idref="sect10-1">
- <p>You may only examine each liquid once.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack contains four ornate glass vials. They hold red, orange, green and black liquids.</p>
- <p>Which one do you wish to examine?<footref id="sect10-1" idref="sect10-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect90">Red? If so, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">Orange? If so, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">Green? If so, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">Black? If so, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>The pack may be used as a Backpack unless you already possess one.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">You may leave this chamber at any time and continue northwards along the corridor by <link-text>turning to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to ask who the current ruler of Ragadorn is, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to ask the name of the river that divides Ragadorn into east and west, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to ask the name of the tavern in Barnacle Street, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The equipment is quickly unpacked and distributed among you. Your share is enough food for 3 Meals, Sleeping Furs, and a Rope. Remember to mark these on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and note that Sleeping Furs take up the same amount of room as two normal Items in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>You cannot take the Kanu-dogs with you across the mountains, and you are forced to abandon them here with the sledges. A rope is secured to each person and you set off towards a narrow pass between the dark and sullen peaks. At first, the climb is quite easy; but soon the smooth ice becomes steep and difficult to cross. A wind rises that piles drifts of loose snow against the broken ice, and visibility is quickly reduced to a few yards. The drifts are deceptive and often deep. On two occasions, you sink up to your chest and have to be dug out by the others.</p>
- <p>That night, the tent is erected on a table of ice-covered granite overhanging a deep ravine. You are exhausted and almost fall asleep over your evening Meal. (Remember to deduct this Meal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p><quote>Do you understand any of the Ice Barbarian language?</quote> asks Dyce, trying to stimulate conversation. <quote>Myjavik is one of the few Ice Barbarian words I know.</quote></p>
- <p>When you ask him what it means, he pauses before answering you. <quote>Terror<ch.ellips/> <quote>Myjavik</quote> means terror.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a tremendous noise outside the tent. It sounds like the roar of a large animal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to draw your weapon and investigate the noise, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you prefer to hold your breath and keep as still as possible, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a lever in the wall and a spy-hole in the centre of the door. Peering through the spy-hole, you see a strange sight. A man in a dark robe is kneeling in the centre of a pentacle chalked on the floor of the chamber. His head is bowed and he seems to be in a trance.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to pull the lever and open the door, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to leave him where he is, and continue exploring the main corridor, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two men stare at you in horror and fumble for their weapons.</p>
- <p>You have killed one of them before the other attempts to fight back. He is desperate and attacks you with great fury. You will have to fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">14</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You carefully examine the keyhole to assess your chances of being able to pick the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you have a Dagger in your possession, or a Bone Sword, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you do not have the above skill or weapons, you should leave the chamber and investigate the stairs by <link-text>turning to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect16-1-foot" idref="sect16-1">
- <p>You may choose which Backpack Items to discard, as it is not specified. If you have fewer than two items in your Backpack, then you get away with losing one or zero items.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You only just manage to slip through the gap as the stone door slams shut. Unfortunately, if you are wearing a Backpack, two separate Items have been crushed and must be discarded here.<footref id="sect16-1" idref="sect16-1-foot"/> Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and continue along the passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize that you are suffering the first effects of snow-blindness. Unless you act now, the more painful symptoms of this malady will soon appear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to cover your eyes with a blindfold, and keep them covered at least until you make camp later today, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you do not like the idea of being blindfolded, and prefer to risk snow-blindness, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect18-1-foot" idref="sect18-1">
- <p>Remember to erase this Weapon or weapon-like Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your weapon sinks into the swirling wind, an agonizing blast of intense cold runs through the full length of your arm. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and stagger back, clutching your frostbitten arm to your chest. You have lost your weapon and the cyclone is growing stronger and stronger, forcing you to retreat towards a corner of the temple.<footref id="sect18-1" idref="sect18-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to try to escape towards the darkened archway beyond, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to continue retreating into the corner of the temple, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint along the ice bridge and dive for Dyce<ch.apos/>s hand, but it is too late. Barely a second before you reach him his grip falters and he plummets backwards into the gaping void. A shiver runs down your spine as his scream fades into the darkness below. You are staring helplessly into the gorge when Irian begins to shout: <quote>There, over there<ch.emdash/>I<ch.apos/>m sure I saw something.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>His grip falters and he plummets backwards into the gaping void</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="684" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="684" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You strain your eyes, hoping to see something, anything, but the gorge is as black as midnight. You turn to see Irian pointing, not at the gorge, but towards the western horizon. <quote>Look over there,</quote> he says, indicating a ridge in the distance. Two fur-clad warriors are standing on top of a large platform of ice. They are looking in your direction, alerted, no doubt, by Dyce<ch.apos/>s dying scream.</p>
- <p><quote>Ice Barbarians,</quote> says Fenor, his voice shaking with fear. <quote>If they reach Ikaya before us, we<ch.apos/>re as good as dead!</quote></p>
- <p>You are now fifteen miles from the ice fortress and less than three hours of daylight remain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you wish to press on, in the hope that you will outrun the Barbarians, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to attack them to prevent them warning others, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The body of the Helghast bubbles and dissolves a your feet, a vile green gas seeping out from beneath its robes. As you stare in revulsion at the decomposing corpse, you suddenly realise that this foul creature must have been sent here to kill Vonotar<ch.emdash/>there can be no other reason for its being here. The Darklords of Helgedad crave Vonotar<ch.apos/>s death in payment for his failure at the Battle of Holmgulf, and have discovered his whereabouts. The wizard must have discovered the Helghast and imprisoned it within the pentacle until he could devise a way of permanently destroying it.</p>
- <p>You gingerly touch your wounded throat and thank the gods that you possess the Sommerswerd; its powers have once again saved your life. Turning into the main corridor, you quickly leave behind the smoking remains.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chill air whistles past, and then you suddenly crash <!--ERRTAG-RE-59623-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59623--> a ledge of ice, over thirty feet below. You are winded and badly shaken, but still conscious. The cries of your guides soon change to shouts of joy and amazement when they see you stagger to your feet. You look upwards to see Fenor leap safely across the crevasse. Seconds later, a rope is thrown down and you are pulled to safety.</p>
- <p>You have lost your Kanu-dogs, your sledge with its provisions, and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. After an anxious discussion, your guides agree to continue the mission, although they know that the hardships will now be doubly severe. Then in the distance, Irian spots a narrow passage at the edge of the ice shelf at a point where it meets the Hrod Basin. You continue your journey, and by nightfall you have reached the shelter of this pass and decide to set up camp.</p>
- <p>Checking the remaining food stores, you realize that rations will have to be cut by half if all of you are to reach Ikaya. You lose another 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the scant evening Meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A powerful spell is shielding this lock from your mind. You concentrate until sweat stands out on your forehead, but still you are unable to break through.</p>
- <p>Rather than attempt to open the chest by force, you reluctantly decide to leave it, and explore the staircase instead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are lucky. Baknar are known to sleep for anything up to three days, especially after they have eaten a huge meal. This Baknar will sleep for another twenty-four hours at least. You slip past the creature, and leave the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take careful aim and hurl the Diamond along the corridor. It bounces just in front of the Ice Barbarian and then comes to rest behind the staircase. His attention is caught by the noise and the gleam of the Diamond, and he leaves his post to investigate. You seize your opportunity to run up the stairs undetected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that one of the creatures has a Triangle of Blue Stone hanging on a chain around its neck. You may take this if you wish, and put it round your neck. Mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>Wiping your weapon, you quickly push on, in case other Kalkoth should appear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect26-1-foot" idref="sect26-1">
- <p>The two Bone Swords are normal Weapons.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apart from the Bone Swords, you also find a Dagger and a Mace: both carved from solid bone.<footref id="sect26-1" idref="sect26-1-foot"/> The Ice Barbarians also have curious Bracelets attached to their left wrists. They are plain, without mark or inscription, and appear to be made of solid gold.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to take one of the Bracelets, put it on your wrist and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, and <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you do not wish to take a Bracelet, you may continue your exploration, and <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stumble along the bleak rock-face for nearly an hour, finding nowhere to shelter from the bitter wind. Unless you have rubbed Baknar oil into your skin, you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the extreme cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to push on and continue your search for shelter, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to dig a hole in the snow with your hands, and try to shelter here for the night, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping your blood-spattered face, you stagger out of the cell into the wide corridor beyond. In the distance you can see a junction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you wish to search the Ice Barbarian<ch.apos/>s body, you must drag it into the light of the corridor, and <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to press on with your mission as quickly as possible, close the cell door and continue along the corridor towards the junction. <link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crevasse is opening wider and wider. You see Fenor jump clear and land safely at the edge of the chasm. You too are about to jump when you discover to your horror that your left foot is caught in the sledge ropes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you have neither of the above, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If the number you have picked is 1<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If the number you have picked is 0, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage continues for a few yards before turning sharply to the east. Directly ahead, you can see light seeping from a crack in the wall. Looking closer, you see a secret door and a small stone lever. You pull the lever and the door slides open to reveal a wide, well-lit corridor. To your left, less than ten yards away, is a junction. To your right, you can see a closed stone door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to examine the door, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to head left towards the junction, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The statue rises slowly from the altar and advances towards you. As it comes closer, you feel an intense chill radiating from its smooth, stony skin. However, its movements are stiff and uncertain<ch.emdash/>you could easily dodge its outstretched arms.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The statue rises slowly from the altar and advances
-towards you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="709" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="709" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to attack this strange statue, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to dodge past it and run towards the archway beyond, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect32-1-foot" idref="sect32-1">
- <p>If in a previous passage you have already fought or killed any of these Kalkoth, mark off the damage that you inflicted on them before resuming the fight. If the earlier fight statistics only listed two Kalkoth because you sneaked up on the Kalkoth and killed one, ignore the statistics for Kalkoth 3.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the creatures leap at you from beneath the waterfall, you must fight them one at a time.<footref id="sect32-1" idref="sect32-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">8</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at all during this combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you win the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Throwing the boy <!--ERRTAG-RE-70145-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-70145--> the sledge, you grab the whip and lash the Kanu-dogs, driving them for everything they are worth. The Ice Barbarian scouts immediately give chase, shouting to the boy in their strange Kalte language.</p>
- <p>You have covered less than a hundred yards when the boy leaps from the sledge into a deep snowdrift. At the same time, a volley of bone-tipped arrows whistle past your head, and one grazes your shoulder. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Although the boy is free, two scouts continue to pursue you; but your dog team is fast, and you have soon outdistanced them and their arrows.</p>
- <p>By nightfall, you reach the very edge of the Viad Mountains. These awesome granite mountains rise vertically out of the ice and snow; they will be impossible to cross on this cold and moonless night. A wind rising in the west heralds a night blizzard. You must find shelter or you will die of exposure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you have the Kai Discipline either of Tracking or of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to search northwards, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to search southwards, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You suddenly realize that you possess an Effigy of this hideous creature. Taking the Effigy from your pocket, you hold it before you. It begins to glow with a strange iridescence that holds the creature mesmerized. Vonotar has lost control of the creature and it is yours to command. The wizard, realizing he has lost, retreats from the moat. Loi-Kymar arrives at your side. He is breathless and is trying to say something to you.</p>
- <p><quote>Use it Lone Wolf<ch.ellips/> send it<ch.ellips/> against Vonotar!</quote></p>
- <p>You will the monster to capture and hold Vonotar and it instantly obeys your command. The traitor shrieks with terror and faints as the slimy tentacles close around him. You notice Loi-Kymar hurl a handful of powdered herbs into the moat. Within seconds, a mass of vines and creepers coil upwards, forming a bridge across the moat to the Brumalmarc Throne. Once safely across, you will the creature to release Vonotar and return to the moat. Obediently it slithers into the darkness and the crystal blocks slowly rise.</p>
- <p><quote>Tie him, Lone Wolf,</quote> shouts Loi-Kymar, as he searches for his Guildstaff. <quote>And be sure to strip him of his rings and amulets<ch.emdash/>he is a master of trickery. We would not want him to miss his special homecoming to Sommerlund.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow Loi-Kymar<ch.apos/>s instructions and make sure that Vonotar is securely tied.</p>
- <p><quote>Ah! Here she is!</quote> the old magician eventually cries triumphantly, discovering his Guildstaff amongst the tangle of vines at the base of the throne. He is anxious to leave so you thank him for his help and pass him your map of Kalte, pointing out the position of the ship <cite>Cardonal</cite>.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.apos/>ll not be needing that,</quote> he replies. <quote>Maps are invariably wrong; I prefer to rely on my own sense of direction.</quote></p>
- <p>Loi-Kymar raises his Guildstaff and a dazzling beam of light flows from its tip. He makes three wide sweeps of the air and the Hall of the Brumalmarc is transformed into an umbrella of colour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You get an uneasy feeling that someone or something is watching you. You leave the tent and peer into the night for some sign of life, but the snow and the darkness hide everything. Reluctantly, you return to the tent and go to sleep with one hand by your weapon in case of a surprise attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb over fifty steps before reaching the archway. As you catch your breath, you notice that a billowing and swirling veil of mist completely covers the arch, hiding whatever lies beyond. You suddenly realize that the temperature is much colder around this archway.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense and if you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian and therefore possess 7 Kai Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, but have not yet reached the Kai rank of Guardian, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you do not possess the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, prepare yourself for attack and pass through the archway by <link-text>turning to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the darkness you have stepped into a narrow but very deep fissure in the ice floor. You fall over fifty feet and break both legs as you crash into a jagged outcrop of rock. You are unable to move and there is no one to rescue you.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After ten minutes of searching the room, you discover an old fur Backpack and a long coil of Rope. You may take the Backpack only if you do not already wear one. The Rope counts as two Backpack Items, as it takes up extra space.</p>
- <p>Finally satisfied that there is nothing else of value in this junk-filled room, you leave and continue your exploration along the east passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237"><link-text>Turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>So far, so good. The guards do not seem to be paying you any attention. You pretend to adjust the laces of your boot and hide the bowl behind a pilaster. You return to the kitchen and wait for the fumes to take effect. In less than a minute, the Ice Barbarian guards have collapsed to the floor, and you can approach the hall safely. To your delight, you discover that one of the magnificent jewelled doors is unlocked. Preparing yourself for attack, you gently push the door ajar and enter Vonotar<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have fallen over thirty feet but have landed safely in a deep snow drift. Clawing the cold snow from your eyes, you are astounded by the sight that greets you. A vast cavern spreads out as far as your eyes can see: huge stalactites of crystal hang from the icy ceiling and the constant dripping of melted snow fills the air with a strangely musical sound.</p>
- <p>You are looking upon an uncharted world that few Sommlending have ever seen, for you are staring upon the caverns of Kalte. This massive underground labyrinth was built by the Ancients many ages before the Sommlending, or even the Darklords, set foot in Magnamund. Its wide avenues, temples and halls once echoed to the sounds of a race of creatures for whom the ice was a natural home. M<ch.apos/>lare bowls still hang from the roof, shedding an eerie, eternal light.</p>
- <p>You follow a wide melt-water channel for over two miles until it disappears beneath a wall of shimmering ice. An ice bridge leads to a tunnel that soon splits in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to take the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you wish to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect41-1-foot" idref="sect41-1">
- <p>You may still keep the Blue Stone Triangle (you need not erase it from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Removing the Blue Stone Triangle from around your neck, you press it into the granite wall. It is a perfect fit. You immediately feel a tremor running through the ledge on which you are standing, followed by the grinding noise of stone upon stone. The door opens, but after it has opened less than three feet, it begins to close.</p>
- <p>Without a moment<ch.apos/>s hesitation, you dive into the fortress and the door crashes shut behind you.<footref id="sect41-1" idref="sect41-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your magnificent sword and assail the door. A bright shower of sparks illuminates the room as each blow of the Sommerswerd bites into the ancient stone. The blade glows a fiery gold as you strike the door time and time again. The Sommerswerd will eventually destroy the door, but it may take many hours to cut a hole large enough for you to escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to continue beating the door with the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to give up, you can leave by the previously concealed northern passage, and <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the golden sword and sever the ropes with one blow. Your foot is free, and you leap from the sledge barely seconds before it disappears into the crevasse. Quickly, Fenor runs to your side and pulls you away from the crumbling edge. You have lost your Kanu-dogs, your sledge and provisions, but not your life. You both jump the widening gap and join the others.</p>
- <p>Despite the loss of equipment, your guides agree to continue the mission even though they know that the hardships will now be far greater. In the distance, you can see a narrow passage at the edge of the ice shelf where it joins the Hrod Basin. By nightfall, you have reached the shelter of this narrow pass and you decide to set up camp.</p>
- <p>You make a check of the remaining food stores and realize that rations will have to be cut by half if you are all to reach Ikaya. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the small evening Meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Follow me,</quote> says Loi-Kymar. <quote>I<ch.apos/>ve listened to the sounds of Ikaya for over a year, and the secret sliding doors and the hidden routes here are no <!--ERRTAG-RE-81998-->mystery to me. I have<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81998--> learnt more about these corridors and passages from the confines of my cell than Vonotar has discovered with all of his cunning.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow the old magician through a network of secret passages and tunnels, up long flights of stairs and into chambers dark and cold. At the top of one very steep staircase, you come to a stone door. A strange, sickly smell is seeping from a small spy-hole. <quote>The kitchens,</quote> whispers Loi-Kymar, showing his distaste for Ikaya cuisine by sticking out his tongue and grimacing.</p>
- <p>You can see that this secret door opens next to a fireplace in which burns a roaring fire. Hanging over the fire is a large stone cauldron of gruel. Two Ice Barbarians sit at a table nearby with empty bowls in front of them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you possess a Potion of Black Graveweed, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you possess a Potion of Green Gallowbrush, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not possess either of these potions, you can open the secret door and launch a surprise attack upon the unarmed Ice Barbarians, by <link-text>turning to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect45-1-foot" idref="sect45-1">
- <p>The Silver Key referred to here must be a Special Item. If you have a Backpack Item called a Silver Key, it does not count.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The faces of grotesque and distorted creatures adorn the surfaces of the chest. Their obscene expressions and unnatural proportions make you shudder with revulsion. Set into the centre of the lid is a large stone block carved with a hideous face, the mouth of which is shaped around a keyhole.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you possess a Silver Key,<footref id="sect45-1" idref="sect45-1-foot"/> <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove the Firesphere from your jacket, quickly split open the two halves and place them upon the narrow ledge behind. The Javek hisses loudly, both its heads weaving and darting at you in rage. It is desperate to attack, but it will not approach the Firesphere. Instead, it attempts to slither round the flames, but the ledge is very narrow<ch.emdash/>no more than a foot wide. It cannot pass without singeing itself. Eventually, angry but powerless, the strange reptile resigns itself to failure and disappears back along the ledge and into the passageway beyond.</p>
- <p>You can now retrieve your Firesphere and continue your exploration.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to pick the lock for nearly half an hour before conceding defeat. You have exhausted every possible angle and sequence, but still the lock refuses to open. Reluctantly, you sheathe your weapon, leave the chamber and investigate the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian passes within six inches of your hiding place. He pauses before walking back along the corridor. You breathe a sigh of relief<ch.emdash/>you have not been discovered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to escape on tiptoe along the northern corridor, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to attack the Ice Barbarian from behind, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have climbed fifteen feet to a thin ice ledge. From here you have a clear view of the fissure. You think you have caught a glimpse of someone when suddenly the ice gives way beneath your feet, and you fall headlong in a tumble of granite and snow. You prepare yourself for the shock of impact, but you plunge straight into a crevasse, hidden beneath a layer of powdery snow. You finally come to rest in a deep drift some two hundred feet below the surface.</p>
- <p>Blinded, dazed and half-suffocated by snow, you begin to claw your way out of this icy grave. When you eventually free yourself, you are astounded by the sight that greets you. A vast corridor disappears into the distance as far as the eye can see. Huge stalactites of crystal hang from the icy ceiling, and the constant drip of melting snow fills the corridor with a strangely musical sound. You shout for help until your throat becomes dry and sore, but your guides do not hear you. You still have your weapon(s), Gold Crowns and any Special Items, but you are without a Backpack, as it is still in your tent. Looking up, you see that the hole through which you have fallen is now just a tiny speck on the roof of the passage. You notice that the strange light of the ice corridor seems to come from large stone bowls hanging from the ceiling. These are M<ch.apos/>lare bowls, a source of eternal light discovered by the Ancients many ages ago. You soon realize that your guides may never find out where you are, and quickly resolve to follow the passage in the hope of finding some other exit. After two hours of walking, you arrive at a junction where the passage splits in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to follow the passage to the left, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to follow the passage to the right, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Have you located the Ancient Temple of Ikaya and found a Glowing Crystal?</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you do not have it, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the Doomwolves are sleeping deeply. There is a chance that you can slip past them, overpower the Ice Barbarian guard, and close the cell door before they awake. However, you know that this is very risky and the odds are against you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you are brave enough to enter a cell full of Doomwolves, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not want to take the risk, you must leave and descend the stairs. <link-text>Turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you climb the slippery stone ramp, the sound of cracking ice makes you spin round. The large mound of crystals at the base of the ramp is beginning to move. The crystals are alive! You stare in disbelief as the mound is transformed into a writhing mass of crystal coils. The coils unwind, and the ice creature slithers towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to evade this creature and run towards the stone door, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to fight it, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you mistime your dive with disastrous consequences. Both of your legs are crushed by the closing door and you slowly bleed to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The glass is very delicate and it takes all your concentration and skill to avoid smashing the stem.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of either Mind Over Matter or Mindblast, add 3 to the number that you picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If your total score is now 5<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect55-1-foot" idref="sect55-1">
- <p>The permanent loss referred to here is probably just the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss, and not the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than a hundred feet from the top when the pain begins to fade. Eventually, you no longer feel anything with your hands: all sensation below your forearms is totally numbed by frostbite.</p>
- <p>With one last effort, you reach a narrow ice shelf where you can kneel and rest. But you soon discover to your dismay that it is impossible to climb any further<ch.emdash/>you are faced by sheer walls of ice that offer no hand holds in their smooth surfaces. You will have to return the way you came. It is over four hours before the feeling returns to your hands. The frostbite is serious and you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. In addition to this, you also lose 2 points from your initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. This loss is permanent and will affect you for the rest of your life.<footref id="sect55-1" idref="sect55-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>It takes a further five hours to reach the bottom in safety. Exhausted and in great pain, you steel yourself to find another exit from this icy hell-hole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Upon my soul, a Kai Lord!</quote> he exclaims, his eyes now wide with astonishment.</p>
- <p><quote>How I<ch.apos/>ve prayed for freedom, for deliverance from this infernal place. And although hope never deserted me, I never expected such an illustrious rescuer.</quote></p>
- <p>In the middle of his excitement, the old man is suddenly disturbed by a fit of coughing that leaves him pale and exhausted. It is a few minutes before he can speak again. <quote>My name is Loi-Kymar. I am an elder of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-93667-->Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93667--> of Toran,</quote> he says, slowly removing a small crystal star pendant, the symbol of the guild, from beneath his tattered robes. The guild is known as the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and the magician shows his pendant as proof of his identity. You ask him how he came to be imprisoned here in Ikaya, many hundreds of miles from his native Toran.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><quote>My name is Loi-Kymar. I am an elder of the Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild of Toran,</quote></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="662" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="662" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Vonotar, that unspeakable <!--ERRTAG-RE-94585-->wretch, is responsible<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94585--> for my plight. Days before the Darklord invasion of Sommerlund, he betrayed your Kai masters to win power<ch.emdash/>the black power of death and darkness. However, he failed to play his part in the war plans his evil masters had laid. The Darklords do not tolerate such weakness<ch.emdash/>mercy has no place in their brutal minds. In the bitterness of defeat, they sought to destroy Vonotar for his crime of failure. Vonotar knew that I possessed the only means to effect an escape from their vengeance, for my Guildstaff has the power of teleportation. He tried to steal it and flee to the safety of Ikaya by himself, but he learnt that its power is not for all men to share; only I am blessed with its secret. He was angry and would have murdered my kinspeople had I not agreed to bring him here, so I had no choice but to do so.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Ever since, I have been a prisoner in this cell. Vonotar has tortured my body and my mind, but I have not divulged the secret of my Guildstaff, which he now keeps in the Hall of the Brumalmarc. For if I were to tell him, my life would no longer be of any value.</quote></p>
- <p>You tell Loi-Kymar of your mission and of the events that have led to your meeting. He offers to show you a route through Ikaya to the Hall of the Brumalmarc where Vonotar now resides as ruler, and if you can retrieve his Guildstaff, he promises to teleport you to the coast in time to rendezvous with your ship.</p>
- <p>For the first time since you fell into the caverns of Kalte, you feel confident that your mission can now succeed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192"><link-text>Turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The next day is bitterly cold. A fierce northerly wind blows relentlessly, beating your face, and drying your lips until they crack and bleed. Your nose begins to run but the mucus instantly freezes on your lips. The sun is obscured by a thick layer of falling snow that mutes the light. Snow mounds and small potholes in the ice become invisible, and the journey is often brought to a halt when a sledge overturns or jams.</p>
- <p>Great strain is put on your eyes by the constant glare as you search for the rough ice on the ground which is so hazardous. By midday, your vision has become a blur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cone of frost rips into the vines and freezes them in an instant. They become brittle and collapse under your weight. Without hesitation, you sprint across the falling bridge and dive <!--ERRTAG-RE-97798-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97798--> the far platform just as the vines completely disintegrate.</p>
- <p>You have made it safely across the moat, but you are now lying at Vonotar<ch.apos/>s feet. He sneers at you and points his crystal rod at your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kalkoth charges <!--ERRTAG-RE-98307-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98307--> the lake and immediately falls through the ice. Beneath the frozen surface, a shadow speeds towards the helpless creature as it thrashes wildly in the icy water, snatching it suddenly into the depths. An unnatural stillness descends and all that remains now is a large patch of red water, spreading slowly beneath the ice.</p>
- <p>You quickly scramble towards the jagged outline of the tunnel on the far side of this lake. As you reach the solid ice of the bank, you notice something strange lying there. It is a small triangle of blue stone on a neck chain. If you wish to keep this Blue Stone Triangle, slip the chain over your head and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">Enter the tunnel by <link-text>turning to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen steps when a brilliant crackle of blue energy arcs between the two staves. You see the white statue beginning to move as if activated by the surge of power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to attack the creature before it rises from the altar, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to remain perfectly still and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to run for the darkened archway beyond, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect61-1-foot" idref="sect61-1">
- <p>This peculiar ending is the only time in the entire Lone Wolf series where you can fail your mission without actually dying. Despite the fact that it may take quite a bit of effort to get here, it does not count as a completion for this adventure. You still may not use your character in future adventures.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a covered balcony running round the perimeter of an open courtyard. Suddenly you hear the dull tone of a stone bell as it tolls in a watchtower high above the fortress<ch.emdash/>the alarm bell. The balcony and the courtyard below are completely deserted, except for a wind sledge near to the courtyard gate.</p>
- <p>You decide to take a chance, and descend a flight of steps to discover that the sledge is loaded with food and equipment from Ljuk. With the whole of Ikaya alerted to your presence, it is now impossible to complete your mission. There is nothing else you can do but make your escape on the wind sledge, while there is still time.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice>Ten days from now, you will reach your ship the <cite>Cardonal</cite> and regretfully report that you have failed your mission.<footref id="sect61-1" idref="sect61-1-foot"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the light gradually fades, a blizzard blows across the open ice shelf and batters relentlessly against the tent. The flapping canvas and the pain in your fingers and toes are beginning to wear on your nerves; you wish you had never set foot in this icy hell. Then, in the middle of the night, the wind rips away the edge of the canvas and the full force of the gale scatters your equipment and provisions. You are forced to spend the rest of the night on your elbows, clinging with frozen fingers to the edge of the tent. Your sleeping furs fill with a half frozen slush, and, by dawn, your clothes are stiff with ice. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, before <link-text>turning to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow this passage northwards until it turns abruptly towards the west. A few yards ahead, a flight of stone steps ascends to an archway thirty feet above. Just past the staircase, you notice another stone door, with a lever in the wall next to it. The lever is raised and the door is closed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to climb the stairs, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to investigate the door, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You get the uneasy feeling that danger lurks along both tunnels. Although you sense that the northern tunnel is the more perilous of the two, you feel sure that it is the quickest route to Ikaya.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to enter the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to take the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The buttons have jammed. No matter how hard you try you cannot make them budge. You have no choice but to abandon the altar and leave the temple by the northern archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The barb of a Kalkoth<ch.apos/>s tongue holds a powerful venom, with which it paralyses its victims before devouring them. The venom takes only a few seconds to act. Stung by the barb, you quickly fade into unconsciousness. It is a sleep from which there will be no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man jerks his head back as if suddenly woken from a trance. <quote>Who<ch.apos/>s there?</quote> he whispers, his deep-set eyes peering into the gloom above. <quote>Is anyone there, or does madness now befriend me?</quote> You extend your hand through the portal and chance a wave to show your whereabouts. <quote>The Gods be praised,</quote> he cries, jumping excitedly to his feet. <quote>My name is Tygon. I am a merchant from Ragadorn. The Ice Barbarians kidnapped me and my cargo, and brought me here. I now await an audience with their new Brumalmarc, the Sommlending sorcerer called Vonotar. It seems that he will decide my fate. If you free me, I<ch.apos/>ll help you as best I can.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you have a Rope, you can lower it through the portal and help the man to climb out of his cell by <link-text>turning to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you do not possess a Rope, or if you do not want to help him, you can continue along the corridor towards the stairs by <link-text>turning to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Ice Barbarian moves closer, he suddenly lets out a blood-curdling scream and lunges at your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than twenty yards when you see a patrol of six Ice Barbarians marching towards you along the corridor. Then, to your left, you notice a small flight of stairs leading down into a darkened chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to run down these stairs and hide from the patrol, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to run back to the landing and take the north corridor, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Quick, we must pack up and leave immediately,</quote> shouts Fenor, the howling wind carrying his words away into the night. <quote>Kalkoth never hunt alone. There<ch.apos/>s sure to be others nearby<ch.emdash/>they can smell blood miles away.</quote></p>
- <p>The tent is dismantled and you quickly leave, Dyce leading the way and you guarding the rear. You have covered less than fifty yards when disaster strikes. Blinded both by the darkness and the wind, Dyce fails to see that the path comes to an abrupt end at the edge of a sheer precipice. You freeze with horror as you hear the screams of your guides fading into the darkness. With death threatening from all sides, you cling in desperation to the frozen rock-face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you have coated yourself with Baknar oil, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you have not applied this oil to your skin, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can sense that the Ice Barbarian child has a bone dagger hidden in his boot. He is trying to reach it so that he can attack you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">Forewarned by your Kai sense, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You carefully examine the altar and the two black staves protruding from its surface. The cyclone continues to howl but while you carry the Firesphere, it will not advance towards the altar.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You notice that where the statue once lay, two stone buttons have risen from the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guides look at you as if you are mad, and refuse to ride with you. At first, the Kanu-dogs are reluctant to approach the gorge, but with some encouragement from your whip they soon change their minds. There is less than six inches of ice on either side of your sledge runners, and all your concentration is needed to keep to the centre of this frozen bridge. You are less than fifteen feet from the other side when there is a tremendous crack and the sledge shudders violently.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If the number you have picked is 8<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone walls of the corridor are covered with strange carvings, which cast deep shadows. Using your skill, you hide yourself in their gloom. The Ice Barbarian walks slowly towards you, his movements tense and unsteady. Your skin crawls as you notice for the first time his white pupil-less eyes. Holding your breath, you pray that he has not seen you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tracks have been made by dangerous and carnivorous creatures called Baknar. If you run into them in the confines of a dark and narrow tunnel, your chances of survival will be very slim indeed. Although your Kai Discipline has enabled you to identify the tracks, you are unable to sense which tunnel the Baknar occupy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to take the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue upwards until you reach a narrow stone door. Like the other doors you have seen so far, it is controlled by a wall lever. This door also has a small spy-hole cut into its centre. Carefully placing your eye to the aperture, you peer into the small room beyond. There, lying on the floor of the cell, are three sleeping Doomwolves. In the north wall, a cell door is open, and the outline of an Ice Barbarian<ch.apos/>s back can be seen filling the archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting or Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you do not have either of these skills, you can open the door and attack the Doomwolves by <link-text>turning to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you would rather back away from the cell door and descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the pungent smell of distilled Graveweed, a very powerful poison. Even the vapour is enough to make your head spin and your vision blur. Quickly you discard the broken glass and cover your nose with the sleeve of your jacket; you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the effects of the poisonous vapour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Preparing yourself, you pull back the flap of the tent and quickly leave. The wind has become much stronger, and it whips the fine snow into small eddies, obscuring your vision. A shadow to your right betrays the Baknar as it lopes towards you. There is no time to evade its attack and you must fight the creature to death.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A shadow to your right betrays the Baknar as it lopes
-towards you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="660" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="660" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Baknar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You open the door just enough to be able to pour the Vial of Graveweed into the bubbling gruel. You have not long to wait for the Ice Barbarians to eat what will be their last supper. You are now free to explore.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small15.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small15.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The kitchen is small and surprisingly well stocked with herbs. <quote>These must have come from the trading post at Ljuk,</quote> says Loi-Kymar, peering at the many jars and bottles. He takes several of the herb jars and crams them into the pockets of his robes. You are anxious to leave in case other guards should enter, but the old magician seems completely engrossed in his new discoveries. He opens two small jars, and mixes the contents together, urging you to eat with him. <quote>It will give you strength, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says. As you eat the dry leaves, you feel a warm glow radiating throughout your body. Restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the raging Kalkoth charges out of the tunnel, you wait until the last possible moment before you dive.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>1, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If the number you have picked is 2<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to hide the dead body under the stairs when you hear strange cries and low screams drifting down the corridor. A group of Ice Barbarians are advancing towards you. You are momentarily stunned by the sight of these warriors, for they are hideously mutated. With fear and revulsion welling up inside, you scramble the stairs to a wide landing where a corridor runs north to south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to run northwards, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to run southwards, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cave is cold and slopes very steeply away into the darkness. You have covered sixty yards before you notice a light in the distance. As you get nearer, you hear noises.<ch.nbsp/>.<ch.nbsp/>. animal noises.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to draw your weapon and charge, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you want to try to creep closer and spy on whatever is there, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian mutants seem to be controlled by a hideous creature lurking in the shadows of a distant doorway. This monster resembles an abnormally large human head with two feet protruding beneath. It has no torso or limbs, but has a long reptilian tail with which to maintain its balance.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian mutants attack simultaneously, and you must fight them as one creature. They are immune to Mindblast. At the same time their strange controller is attacking you with its Mindforce. Unless you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to this attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian Mutants</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect84-1-foot" idref="sect84-1">
- <p>You may record this Special Item as a Blue Stone Triangle which you wear around your neck.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that the Kalkoth has a blue triangle of stone on a chain around its neck. Suddenly you realize the significance of this strange amulet. Grabbing the blue stone, you race back to the fortress door and press it into the wall recess.<footref id="sect84-1" idref="sect84-1-foot"/> It is a perfect fit.</p>
- <p>You become aware of a faint tremor running through the ledge on which you are standing, followed by the grinding noise of stone upon stone. The door opens, but it has only opened three feet when there is a loud crack, and it starts to close. Without a second<ch.apos/>s hesitation, you dive into the fortress and hear the massive door crash shut behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days and nights, you fight your way northwards across the tortuous glacier. Falls, bruises, cut shins, awkward crevasses, razor-edged ice and the constant bitter wind all conspire to sap your strength. However, you count yourself very lucky to have avoided a blizzard, and after a fatiguing trek you eventually reach the shelter of Cloudmaker Mountain in time to set up camp there for the night.</p>
- <p>This huge mountain is over thirteen thousand feet high, and shaped like a giant shark<ch.apos/>s fin. As the cold west winds blow around its peak, great plumes of cloud trail away across the Viad glacier. It is this strange phenomenon which gives the mountain its apt name.</p>
- <p>You soon find an ideal campsite among the shattered fissures of the rock-strewn base. Quickly the tent is up and you are under canvas once again. You have left the tent to answer a call of nature when you discover, purely by chance, the faint glow of torchlight from a small crack in the rocks above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to investigate this strange light, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to ignore it and return to the tent, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You insert your blade and try to locate the locking mechanism. The keyhole is unusually deep and it is very difficult to manipulate the tip of the blade successfully.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill with the weapon that you are now using, you may add 3 to the number that you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If your total is 0<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If your total is 8<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race towards the corner where you saw the creature, only to find that the corridor turns abruptly westwards. A few yards ahead, a flight of stone steps ascends towards a dark archway thirty feet above. Just beyond the staircase, the corridor continues to another stone door. The lever in the wall by the door is raised, and the door is closed. There is no sign of the strange creature.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to climb the stairs, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to investigate the room, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect88-1-foot" idref="sect88-1">
- <p>Picking a 9 for your Combat roll does not result in instant death<ch.emdash/>only picking a 9 for the extra Random Number pick described results in death.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the two-headed serpent slithers along the ledge, you can clearly see the open jaw of its second head and the yellow, curved fangs, dripping with venom. Peeling off your thick jacket, you wind it around your left forearm. You can now use your padded arm to shield yourself from one deadly head as you strike at the other. This creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The two-headed serpent slithers along the ledge</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="657" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="657" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Javek</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">15</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during this combat, do not subtract them from your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total. Instead, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you pick is 0<ch.endash/>8, the Javek has sunk its fangs harmlessly into your padded arm, and you may continue the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>However, if you pick a 9 at any time, the fangs have punctured your arm.<footref id="sect88-1" idref="sect88-1-foot"/> The venom of a Javek is the most powerful natural poison in all of Magnamund. In a few seconds your heart stops, and your paralysed body falls into the abyss. Your mission ends here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian shouts at you in a deep unnatural tone. You have been seen. Cursing your bad luck, you quickly unsheathe your weapon. Wheeling round, you see the Ice Barbarian pulling a lever in the far wall. Three snarling Doomwolves race out of a concealed archway and charge towards you. They attack you one at a time, and you must fight each of them to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the grime from the stopper, you unscrew it and carefully sniff the red liquid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you do not have this skill, you are suspicious of the possible ill effects of this fluid and discard it. <link-text>Return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect91-1-foot" idref="sect91-1">
- <p>You may wish to note the fact that you have applied this oil on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. However, it does not take the space of any item and only affects you for the duration of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hold your breath as you wipe handfuls of the slimy grease inside your jacket. But as the oil penetrates your skin, you feel a warm glow, as if you were near an open fire. The more grease that you apply, the warmer you become. You also notice that the terrible smell is gradually fading away.<footref id="sect91-1" idref="sect91-1-foot"/></p>
- <p><quote>Once it<ch.apos/>s in your skin, you can<ch.apos/>t smell a thing,</quote> says Irian, calling the others to take some Baknar oil. This oil is excellent insulation against the freezing temperatures of Kalte, and may well help you in the near future. As you return to your tent, only the Kanu-dogs seem to object to the smell. They whine and bury their noses in the snow as you walk past.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the passage for several minutes until it takes a left turn. To your dismay, you see that a huge fissure has opened, destroying most of the walls and floor of this new passage. The gaping hole is dark and wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you do not possess a Rope, you will have to retrace your steps and explore the other tunnel. <link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle for nearly five agonizing minutes before your will completely drains away. You have become a mindless automaton. Unable to resist Vonotar<ch.apos/>s psychic commands to kill yourself, you throw yourself on the blade of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have slipped and fallen into the icy water; the shock makes you scream out in pain as cramp bites into your legs. You fight with all the strength you have to reach the bank, but it is a desperate struggle.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, you are lucky. You drag yourself from the icy water and lie exhausted on the bank. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice>If the number you have picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, the icy water soon paralyses your arms and, within minutes, you drown. Your mission ends here.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The intense cold and relentless buffeting of the cyclone quickly drain all your reserves of strength. A numbness sweeps over you as the Ice Demon claims your body for itself, eager to begin a new and powerful existence. For the creatures of Ikaya, and eventually all of Kalte, it is the dawning of a new and terrible age of tyranny, but one which you will not live to see.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wrapping yourself in your white cloak, you take cover behind a stalagmite near to the lake<ch.apos/>s edge. Holding your breath and keeping as still as possible, you listen to the footsteps and growls of the Kalkoth, as they draw nearer and nearer.</p>
- <p>To see if your Kai skill has saved you from detection, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If at any time you have smeared Baknar oil into your skin, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If your total score is now 9<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This corridor is lined with arched stone pilasters, several feet thick, behind which you can hide. Twenty yards ahead, you see an Ice Barbarian warrior standing guard at the bottom of a flight of wide stone steps. Moving quickly to one side, you realize that if you are to get past this guard successfully, you will either have to distract his attention or silence him for good.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you possess a Diamond, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to distract him with some Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you decide to attack him, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense the presence of someone or something lurking inside the fissure, although you cannot tell if their intentions are good or evil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to explore the fissure, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to return to the tent, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you draw your mighty blade, a golden glow illuminates the darkness of the passage. The Helghast shrieks and steps back, its eyes glowing red with hatred and fear. It recognizes the power you wield, a power that can bring about its eternal destruction. In desperation, it attacks you with a powerful Mindblast. Unless you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, you must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round of combat that you fight this creature. The Helghast is immune to Mindblast, but as one of the undead it is especially vulnerable to the Sommerswerd. Be sure to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points it loses due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hunchbacked traitor gasps with astonishment at your sudden appearance, but quickly regains his senses and makes a dash towards a door in the far wall. The Ice Barbarians draw their swords, but their reactions are slow and unsteady. You knock them aside before they can strike at you, and sprint after the disappearing magician.</p>
- <p>The door leads to a landing with two staircases. A spiral staircase descends to your right, and a small flight of stairs ascends to an arch to your left. There is no sign of Vonotar in this chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to descend the spiral staircase, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to ascend the stairs to the arch, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are most fortunate that Baknar sleep long and deeply, sometimes for up to three days after a large meal. But you have now made sure this creature will never waken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">Leave the chamber and <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A secret compartment slides open at the base of the left altar staff. Inside, you discover a small statuette, a Stone Effigy of a strange tentacled creature.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Effigy, slip it into your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to activate the buttons again, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to leave the temple, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following day, a strong wind rises from the north. Hour upon hour, it blows relentlessly into your face. The Ljuk ice shelf becomes a mass of twisted slabs of ice, jutting upwards at every angle. Progress is slow and difficult. By midday, you are shivering with cold; your lips are cracked and bleeding and the icy blasts have covered you with a thin film of snow.</p>
- <p>You steer your sledge through a narrow passage at the edge of the ice shelf where it meets the Hrod Basin. Here you are sheltered from the wind, and for the first time today you can see ahead quite clearly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The three Baknar jump from the ice wall and land with a
-crash on the sledges</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="654" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="654" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly, shrieks from above warn you that you are not the only creatures seeking shelter here. Within seconds, three large Baknar jump from the ice wall and land with a crash on the sledges. Your fellow driver, Irian, is thrown against the ice and collapses unconscious. You are prevented from going to his aid by a hungry carnivorous Baknar. There is no hope of evading it; you must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Baknar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You eventually arrive at a large stone door. Unlike the others, this has no lever to activate it, but you do notice that a small slot has been cut in the nearby wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you possess a Blue Stone Disc, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you do not have this Item, you will have to return along the corridor and head south by <link-text>turning to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have fallen over a hundred-and-fifty feet into a massive snow drift. You are shaken and winded but otherwise unharmed. It takes nearly half an hour to tunnel your way clear and when you finally stagger out of the powdery snow, you are astounded by the sight that greets you. A huge underground cavern spreads into the distance. Stalactites of crystal hang from the icy ceiling and the constant dripping of melting snow fills this ice world with an eerie, musical sound. You are looking at an uncharted world that few Sommlending have ever seen, for you have fallen into the caverns of Kalte. This chamber is a tiny part of a massive underground labyrinth built by the Ancients, many ages before the Sommlending or even the Darklords set foot in Magnamund. Its wide avenues, temple and halls once echoed with the sound of a race of creatures for whom the ice was a natural home. M<ch.apos/>lare bowls still hang from the roof, bathing the chamber with their eternal light.</p>
- <p>You shout towards the opening high above, but there is no reply. Irian and Fenor have given you up for dead, and they are now trying to make their way back to the <cite>Cardonal</cite>.</p>
- <p>The sides of the cave are steep and sheer. To climb up to the surface from here would be impossible. In the distance, to the north, you notice a rough-hewn tunnel. There is also a similar tunnel to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to explore the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to explore the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leap to your feet, you see three Ice Barbarians advancing towards you along the corridor. The fur-clad warriors are armed with vicious bone swords, each encrusted with sharp teeth along the blade. Even in the surprise of their attack you notice the strangeness of their eyes: they are completely white and have no pupils at all.</p>
- <p>They attack you as if they were possessed of one mind, lunging at you simultaneously and dodging your blows in unison. You must fight them as one enemy. They are immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarians</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect145">You may evade at any time by crawling back into the chamber and escaping by the north passage. <link-text>Turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you peer into the large ice cavern beyond, you are horrified to see three large, ugly creatures fighting and clawing at each other. They are fighting over the mutilated carcass lying at their feet. They are Kalkoth, savage predators of Kalte.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you have smeared Baknar oil into your skin, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you have not coated yourself with Baknar oil, you can avoid the Kalkoth by retracing your steps back to the other tunnel. <link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to attack the squabbling creatures, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the patrol march past and you wait until their footsteps start to fade before you climb the stairs. A sudden cry from inside the chamber startles you, and you spin round to see an Ice Barbarian looming out of the dark. He is attacking you with a bone-tipped spear.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You can evade combat after one round by running up the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If, at this time, you wish to head south (right), <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to head north (left), <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attack is swift and deadly. Neither of the Kalkoth will ever wake from their sleep. You make a quick search of the cavern floor but find nothing of value. A growl in the distance makes you anxious, and you quickly leave via the north tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone door grinds open to reveal a small, dimly lit chamber. A black monolith, eight feet high, stands directly in front of you. It is covered with strange symbols. You advance to get a clearer look, when the door suddenly begins to close behind you. There is no lever inside this chamber.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you wish to take a dive through the shrinking gap, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you prefer to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door slides open to reveal a wide, well-lit corridor running north to south. The low rumbling noise you detected earlier seems much louder here than in the darkness of the passage behind. To your left you see a door and in the distance, a junction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to investigate the junction, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you decide to close the secret door and to continue exploring the dark tunnel, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you all bed down for the night in your warm sleeping furs, Fenor prepares a nutritious Meal of dried meat in Wanlo, a potent spirit.</p>
- <p>With the strong wind beating upon the roof of the tent, you slip into a deep sleep. But your dreams are nightmares filled with ghastly images of Vonotar the Traitor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reactions have enabled you to avoid being crushed by the closing door. You adjust your equipment and set off along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than fifty yards when you arrive at another cavern. Lying upon a raised dais of ice in the centre of the frozen chamber is a Baknar, a fierce and carnivorous ice creature. It seems to be sound asleep and the remains of an animal lie scattered around the slab. In the far wall of the chamber lies another tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to creep stealthily past the Baknar, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to attack the creature, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You discover that many of the bones scattered among the stalagmites are of human origin. Shattered skulls, skeletal hands and rib cages lie half buried in the ice. You are about to abandon your search when a small box made of carved bone catches your eye.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you wish to open this box, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you prefer to leave it, you can examine the fortress door by <link-text>turning to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pour the healing Potion <!--ERRTAG-RE-149114-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149114--> your sore and broken skin. Immediately, you feel the soothing effects of the fluid. The pain fades and the swelling begins to subside. The Glowing Gem is a cursed Doomstone, and the power it contains is deadly to all living creatures. Had you not possessed a Laumspur Potion, the effects of the Doomstone would certainly have killed you. You discard the deadly Gem and the now empty <!--ERRTAG-RE-149229-->vial of Laumspur<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149229-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and continue along the corridor by <link-text>turning to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gale dies away during the night and dawn arrives calm and still. On the horizon to the far north, you can see Ikaya, the ice fortress. The huge crystal-towered stronghold is a wondrous sight, made all the more marvellous because it appears to hover upside down upon a large cloud. <quote>Kalte mirage,</quote> says Dyce. <quote>There<ch.apos/>s no dust in the air here<ch.emdash/>the land is reflected in the clouds. That<ch.apos/>s Ikaya, but the real fortress is over the horizon. It cannot be more than forty miles away now.</quote> Dyce grabs a spade and starts to dig out the Kanu-dogs that have been buried by snow. You wake the others and eat a Meal before setting off once more.</p>
- <p>It is midday when you reach the edge of a deep gorge. It is over forty feet wide, and there appears to be no way of crossing it. You are forced to travel along the gorge to the east. Eventually, after three miles, you discover a narrow ice bridge. However, the centre of the bridge is frighteningly thin and narrow: it looks incapable of supporting the weight of a loaded sledge.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You can now see the real Ikaya upon the horizon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to risk taking the sledge across the ice bridge, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to unload the sledge and ferry the equipment across piece by piece, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you decide to leave the sledge here and continue on foot, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He is frail and weak, far too weak to climb. You tell him to tie the rope around his waist so that you can haul him out of the prison. Slowly he follows your instructions. As you draw him up, you are shocked to discover that he weighs no more than a child. You quickly pull him to the comparative safety of the passage. Now you must find out who he is.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56"><link-text>Turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Great chunks of ice are falling away from the underside of the bridge, and a wide split appears. You manage to keep the sledge on course and reach the far side of the gorge, but you soon discover that a sledge runner is broken and irreparable. You are forced to abandon the sledge and continue on foot, but it still contains some useful equipment. Some of this you may take and store in your Backpack (remembering your maximum of eight Items in total):</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for up to 5 Meals (each counts as 1 Item)</li>
- <li>Sleeping Furs (counts as 2 Items)</li>
- <li>Tent (counts as 3 Items)</li>
- <li>Rope (counts as 2 items) </li>
- </ul>
- <p>Fenor, Irian and Dyce quickly follow you across, but as they reach the centre of the bridge, disaster strikes. Dyce catches his foot in the cracked surface and trips. You watch in horror as he slips over the edge. But he catches the edge and hangs on by his fingertips.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Help me, help me!</quote> he cries, slowly losing his grip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you want to try to rescue Dyce, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you feel it is too dangerous to try to rescue him, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The raging wind tears at your clothes, and bombards you with sharp flumes of ice and rock. As you raise the Sommerswerd, an intense howling fills your ears. It is a cry of horror and desperation. You strike at the core of this demon, slicing through the cyclone and into the fabric of its being. In an instant, the wind and the ghastly wailing cease<ch.emdash/>all that remains are the shattered pieces of a hollow statue scattered on the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to search the altar and alcove of this temple, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to leave, you may exit via the northern archway. <link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are on the very brink of losing your concentration when the rope around your foot loosens and drops away. You dive from the sledge barely seconds before it crashes into the crevasse. The dreadful cries of the Kanu-dogs can be heard as they plummet hundreds of feet into the darkness. Quickly, Fenor runs to your side and drags you away from the crumbling ice edge. You have lost your dog team, your sledge and most of your food, but at least you are still alive.</p>
- <p>You and Fenor jump the widening gap and join the rest of your party. After much discussion, the guides agree to continue with the mission even though the hardships will now be doubly severe. In the distance, you see a narrow passage at the edge of the ice shelf where it meets the Hrod Basin. By nightfall, you reach the shelter of this icy pass and camp there for the night. A quick check of your remaining food reveals the need to cut rations by half if all of you are to reach Ikaya. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the poor evening Meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Loi-Kymar hands you some strips of cloth with which to plug your nostrils. You take a deep breath, pick up the bowl of smoking herbs and leave the kitchen. Using your Kai Discipline of Camouflage to blend in with the shadows of the corridor, you edge your way nearer and nearer to the unsuspecting guards. You leave the bowl in the shadow of a pilaster and return to the kitchen to wait for it to take effect.</p>
- <p>In less than a minute, the Ice Barbarians collapse to the floor and you approach the Hall of the Brumalmarc undetected. You are delighted to discover that one of the great jewelled doors is unlocked. Preparing yourself for attack, you gently push the door ajar and enter Vonotar<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The beast is upon you, its long, barbed, venomous tongue darting at you. You must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at all during this combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you win the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can sense an alien life-force somewhere on the other side of the archway. Concentrating your skill, you try to determine whether it is good or evil. You focus your mental powers until you are almost in a trance, but it is no good<ch.emdash/>you cannot identify it. At least you have been forewarned by your Kai Discipline of some presence and you prepare yourself to enter the misty arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After two hours of carefully exploring the passage, you are aware that it has gradually descended over two hundred feet. You eventually reach a vast ice vault, the centre of which is filled with a lake. The frozen surface is very thin, and the water beneath it looks dark and deep. You kneel at the edge of the lake, peering into its mysterious depths. Suddenly you see a large black shape pass close to the surface. There is something alive beneath the ice<ch.emdash/>and it is enormous. Then behind you, you hear the growls of a Kalkoth. The noise is coming from the tunnel. There is only one other exit from this vault which is on the other side of the frozen lake.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Suddenly you see a large black shape pass close to the
-surface of the ice</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="654" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="654" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to run across the surface of the lake, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to stand and fight the Kalkoth, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that the ceiling and walls of the corridor are covered with strange carvings. They seem to depict small cyclones or tornadoes, gradually changing shape into almost human form. Although puzzled by the strange hieroglyphs, you continue until you reach a point where the tunnel takes a sharp right turn. Only a few feet along the northern wall is another stone door. The lever in the wall next to it is raised and the door is firmly closed. Several yards further ahead, a flight of steps disappears upwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to investigate the door, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to continue up the stairs, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that this Helmet has magical properties that can aid you in combat. You detect no evil surrounding this Item or the stone chest in which it lies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to take this Helmet and put it on, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you are still suspicious of its possible ill effects, leave it untouched and explore the stairs by <link-text>turning to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the stone door grinds open, the man jerks his head back in surprise. <quote>Who<ch.apos/>s there?</quote> he whispers, in a thin strangled voice. His eyes glint from beneath the shadow of his ragged hood. Suddenly he seems to recognize you and jumps excitedly to his feet.</p>
- <p><quote>The Gods be praised, a Kai Lord! My name is Tygon. I<ch.apos/>m a merchant from Ragadorn. The Ice Barbarians kidnapped me in Ljuk and brought me here. I now await an audience with their new Brumalmarc, the Sommlending sorcerer they call Vonotar: it seems that he shall decide my fate. But if you free me from this sorcerer<ch.apos/>s pentagram, I<ch.apos/>ll aid you as best I can.</quote></p>
- <p>You recognize the pentagram to be a circle of binding, a magical prison that can only be broken from the outside. You can easily wipe away part of the circle and free this man.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to free him, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you have ever visited Ragadorn, you can ask him some simple questions about the city, to allay any suspicions you may have about who he claims to be, by <link-text>turning to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you prefer to close the cell door and return to the main corridor, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The barb of the Kalkoth<ch.apos/>s tongue holds a powerful venom with which it paralyses its victims before eating them. It takes less than five seconds to affect you and you are unconscious before your head hits the snow.</p>
- <p>When you awake, you feel something heavy pressing down on your chest. It is the corpse of Irian. As you struggle to your feet, a bleak sight greets you through the early morning mist. Your guides are all dead and the remains of your equipment is scattered across the ledge. The bodies of two Kalkoth lie in the bloodstained snow; both have died from sword wounds. Numbed by cold and shock, you stagger about for nearly an hour searching for your Backpack, before you realize you are still wearing it.</p>
- <p>Although still shocked you eventually discover a steep path that leads away from the ledge. The winds of these hostile mountains are bitterly cold. If you have not applied Baknar oil to your skin, you lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155"><link-text>Turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run back past the junction and along the east passage. An Ice Barbarian warrior blocks your path, but you run straight at him. With a bone-jarring thud, you shoulder him aside and keep on running until you reach a staircase. You are halfway up the stairs when you hear the eerie screams of your unnatural pursuers. At the top of the stairs, a corridor runs north to south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to go north, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to head south, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that these buttons are an ancient lock of some kind. If pressed in the correct order, they may reveal a secret compartment or chamber. But there is also the possibility that, if pressed in the wrong order, they may activate a trap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to press the buttons, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you do not wish to take the risk of setting off a trap, you can leave the temple by <link-text>turning to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect132-1-foot" idref="sect132-1">
- <p>It is probably acceptable to eat a Meal right now, if you have one, to avoid this <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unless you have just eaten a Meal, you lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from hunger.<footref id="sect132-1" idref="sect132-1-foot"/> You continue along the tunnel for over a mile, but you soon become tired and stop to sleep. You awake feeling refreshed, but have no idea just how long you have been sleeping<ch.emdash/>the light of these caverns never changes, be it day or night.</p>
- <p>You continue onwards, mile after mile, passing through a series of huge ice halls containing towering pillars of crystal. In one vast chamber, you are mesmerized by the beautiful sight of a shimmering crystal ceiling. But beyond this chamber lies an even greater spectacle. A narrow passage leads on to a ledge running around the brink of a huge chasm, over half a mile wide. As you edge your way around this awesome void, you try not to look down into its wind swept depths, many miles below.</p>
- <p>You have been on the ledge for only a few minutes when a noise behind you makes you glance back. To your horror, you see you are being followed by a monstrous, two-headed serpent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you have the Kai Discipline of either Tracking or Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you do not have these skills, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A M<ch.apos/>lare bowl hangs from the ceiling directly above the fissure.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to try to attach your rope to the bowl and swing across, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you do not wish to risk falling into the fissure, return along the passage and take the other route by <link-text>turning to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following morning, you awake at dawn to the welcome sight of Fenor preparing a hot breakfast. He passes you a steaming bowl, and you gratefully eat its contents. Then you begin loading the equipment <!--ERRTAG-RE-168665-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168665--> the sledges for today<ch.apos/>s journey.</p>
- <p>It is a beautiful morning. The wind has dropped and the air is fresh and clear. The Kanu-dogs are strong and eager to be off, and for most of the day the ice is smooth and the running easy. By nightfall, you have reached Syem Island, a pinnacle of granite rising through the ice shelf to a height of four hundred feet. You make camp to the leeward side of the island in order to avoid the worst of the night winds.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If the number you have picked is 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If the number you have picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Disc fits and the door opens. As you pass through, it quickly slides shut behind you.</p>
- <p>You find yourself in a short corridor leading to a curtained arch. Carefully, you part the curtains and peer into a large chamber. You are wise to be so cautious. Standing less than ten feet away is Vonotar the Traitor. In front of him are two Ice Barbarians and he is placing gold bracelets on their wrists. As the doorway behind you is now sealed, it seems you have no alternative but to launch a surprise attack and attempt to capture Vonotar. Steeling yourself, you charge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, you are hurled backwards as the ice bridge begins to fall apart. For a few seconds, the sledge balances like a see-saw on the brink; you hear the terrified screams of your guides who are unable to reach you. Their voices are the last sound you will ever hear before the edge of the chasm crumbles away. In a tumble of snow and equipment, you fall to your death two thousand feet below.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door grinds open and you enter, ready for attack. You have killed two of the sleeping beasts before the Ice Barbarian and the remaining Doomwolf have time to react. But they both dive at you simultaneously, and you must fight them as one enemy. They are partially immune to Mindblast. If you possess this Discipline, add only 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian + Doomwolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect138-1-foot" idref="sect138-1">
- <p>Even when conducting an extra combat round for evading, you are still subject to turning to <a idref="sect66">Section 66</a> if you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have surprised the Kalkoth, and manage to kill one of them before they can turn and fight back. The remaining two beasts attack one at a time, trying to sting you with their barbed tongues.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during this combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you win the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">You may evade the fight by <link-text>turning to 277</link-text>.<footref id="sect138-1" idref="sect138-1-foot"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect139-1-foot" idref="sect139-1">
- <p>The Laumspur Potion referred to here is specifically referred to as Red, which indicates a special concentrated Potion. The regular Laumspur Potion offered in the Equipment section does not qualify.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are suddenly aware of a dull throbbing pain in your side. The skin beneath the pocket in which you placed the Glowing Gem is now raw and swollen. You feel dizzy and nauseous, and you are having great difficulty in standing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you possess a Red Potion of Laumspur<footref id="sect139-1" idref="sect139-1-foot"/>, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you do not possess this Potion, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He pulls a hidden bone knife and slashes the back of your hand. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and drop the struggling child. The boy quickly runs off towards his father, who has now regained his senses and is unsheathing a vicious, tooth-encrusted sword of bone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man pauses for a few seconds and then answers, <quote>Killean the Overlord.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you now wish to wipe away the pentagram and free him, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you do not wish to free him, close the cell door and return to the main corridor by <link-text>turning to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike it, the mineral splinters into hundreds of silver shards. The rock begins to crack open but the Kalkoth are nearly upon you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>5, the overhanging rock collapses and seals off the cave. You can now make your way back to the other tunnel by <link-text>turning to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If the number you have picked is 6<ch.endash/>9, the rock does not fall and you must fight the Kalkoth. <link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cone of frost tears through the vines, freezing them instantly. They become brittle and begin to collapse under your weight. You try to leap to safety but it is too late, for the bridge falls away and you are thrown head first into the moat. The last thing you see is Vonotar<ch.apos/>s evil sneer as he points his crystal rod at your head.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plummet into the darkness and crash into an ice ledge over one hundred feet below. Your spine is shattered and you are dead long before your body finally comes to rest in the soft snow on the floor of the crevasse.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage is short and you quickly arrive at another stone chamber. Ahead you can see a flight of stone stairs leading to a darkened archway high above. At the foot of the stairs, still upright and in armour, are the skeletal remains of an ancient tomb keeper. A large black sword rests in the skeleton<ch.apos/>s bony fingers.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>At the foot of the stairs, still upright and in armour,
-are the skeletal remains of an ancient tomb keeper</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="704" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="704" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to ignore the skeleton and climb the stairs, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to attack the skeleton, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gingerly inch your way back to the rear of the sledge<ch.emdash/>but you hear the cracking of ice <!--ERRTAG-RE-178113-->as the crevasse<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178113--> opens wider and wider. <quote>Jump!</quote> shouts Fenor, as the sledge topples into the widening void.</p>
- <p>You steady yourself to try to leap to safety but your left foot becomes entangled in the ropes and equipment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you possess neither of the above, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If the number you have picked is 1<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If the number is 0, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search every square inch of the door and surrounding wall, but there appear to be no unusual features. You are examining the stone ramp when a loud roar freezes your blood. A Kalkoth has entered the ice hall. You turn to see the creature bounding towards you<ch.emdash/>its jaws are wide open, revealing its barbed tongue. You cannot evade the Kalkoth and you must fight it to the death.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the course of the combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you win the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway down the staircase when you run straight into a patrol of Ice Barbarians. You attempt to fight your way past them, but they are heavily armoured and equipped with swords and spears. You slay many of them before you are surrounded and suffer your death-blow.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You skilfully sidestep as the Ice Barbarian scout stabs at you with a bone-tipped lance.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to see if you have avoided his blow. If you have the Kai Disciplines of Tracking, Hunting or Sixth Sense, you may add 2 to the number that you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If your total is now 5<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your blow splinters the smooth white surface of the statue. A freezing blast of wind hisses from the crack and, within seconds, a film of glistening ice covers every inch of the chamber. Unless you have applied Baknar oil to your skin, you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the sudden drop in temperature.</p>
- <p>To your mounting horror, you see that the wind is taking the shape of a small cyclone. It is drawing all the loose ice and rock of the chamber towards its core. You have released an Ice Demon and it is intent on your destruction.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You have released an Ice Demon and it is intent on your
-destruction</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="643" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="643" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn immediately to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you possess a Firesphere, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to attack the swirling cyclone with a weapon, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to try to escape into the distant archway, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the hideous beast dies at your feet, you hear Dyce shouting: <quote>Quick, we<ch.apos/>ve got to get away from here. Kalkoth never hunt alone.</quote></p>
- <p>Grabbing your Backpack, you follow Dyce and Irian along a steep mountain path, up and away from the ice ledge. But you have covered less than fifty yards when disaster strikes. Blinded by the darkness and icy wind, Dyce fails to see that the path comes to an abrupt end at the edge of a sheer precipice. You freeze in horror as you hear your guide<ch.apos/>s screams fading into the darkness ahead. With death threatening from every side, you cling in desperation to the frozen rock-face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you have applied Baknar oil to your skin, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to distract his attention by throwing some Gold Crowns into an alcove directly opposite to him.</p>
- <p>Firstly, write down the number of Gold Crowns you are going to throw. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. (0 = 10)</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If the number you have picked is equal to or less than the number that you have written down, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If the number you pick is greater than the number that you have written down, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are nearly across the lake when catastrophe befalls you. Your right foot crashes through the ice and holds you fast at the knee. You fight to free your leg but it is no good; it is completely trapped. A few seconds later, there is a tremendous crack of splintering ice as the lake monster breaks through to the surface. In terror you see the razor-sharp teeth and black slimy head of the ancient horror bearing down on you. This is the last thing you see before it swallows you whole.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are bleeding very badly from a wound in your right leg. It seems as if the flow of blood will never stop, so you tie a makeshift tourniquet around your thigh. You stagger to your feet and survey the damaged chamber.</p>
- <p>The monolith must have been designed to guard against or ensnare trespassers. A powerful glyph, which is a spell of explosive power, was obviously placed on it long ago.</p>
- <p>You notice a panel in the north wall has opened to reveal a darkened exit from this chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to explore this new exit, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to try to open the door by which you entered, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dawn mists are quickly cleared by the icy mountain wind. Tired, shocked and frozen to the bone, you claw your way up the cruel rock-face until you finally reach the safety of a wide ridge. You are very hungry and must eat a Meal here before you continue or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Remember to subtract the Meal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The ridge joins another which you struggle across, only to find yourself at the top of a terrifying descent. To reach the narrow mountain pass one thousand feet below, you must go down a steep and perilous ice staircase.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is less than 10, deduct 2 from the number that you have picked. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is greater than 20, add 1 to the number that you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If your total is now -2<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total is now 3<ch.endash/>10, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the aroma of concentrated Gallowbrush, or <quote>Sleeptooth</quote> as it is commonly called in Sommerlund. This is the thorny briar your Kai masters once used to induce sleep when tending to ill or injured horses. This distilled brew made from the plant is a very powerful sleeping Potion. If you wish to keep the Potion, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect157-1-foot" idref="sect157-1">
- <p>Remember to erase this potion from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the Potion from your Backpack and carefully open the door just wide enough to be able to empty the contents of the vial into the bubbling cauldron.<footref id="sect157-1" idref="sect157-1-foot"/> You do not have to wait long for the Ice Barbarians to fall asleep after their meal.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small15.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small15.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The kitchen is small and surprisingly well stocked with herbs. <quote>These are from the Trading Post at Ljuk,</quote> says Loi-Kymar, peering closely at the labelled jars, several of which he crams into his pockets. Opening two herb jars, he mixes the contents, and offers them to you. <quote>It will give you strength, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says. You eat the dry leaves and feel a warm glow radiating throughout your body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">Restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total, and <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Ice Barbarian scout is on skis, you will only be able to fight one round of combat before the momentum of his attack carries him past you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian Scout</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you sustain a higher <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss than the enemy in this one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If the Ice Barbarian scout loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you in this one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you both lose exactly the same number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in this one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man stares you straight in the eye and says, <ch.apos/>The Ragad.<ch.apos/></p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you now wish to wipe away the pentagram and free him, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you do not want to free him now, close the cell door and return to the main corridor by <link-text>turning to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your transport to Ikaya consists of two sledges, each drawn by a team of six Kanu-dogs. This sturdy <!--ERRTAG-RE-191812-->breed is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-191812--> native to Kalte and make ideal sledge dogs. Their thick tawny coats and powerful chests, as well as their vigour and enthusiasm even in the coldest climates, make them well suited to the work ahead.</p>
- <p>On board each sledge is enough food and equipment for the mission. Your three guides, Irian, Fenor and Dyce, are all experienced trappers. They are skilled at survival in the icy desert, and know of the many unseen dangers.</p>
- <p>Once the dogs are harnessed, you and Dyce climb aboard your sledge and signal to the others to lead the way. As you stare across the frozen expanse of the Ljuk ice shelf, you can see a white glare on the distant horizon. This is the Viad Glacier wall, the point where the flow of ice meets the frozen sea. Through the crisp, clear air of Kalte it looks no more than six miles away at most, but in reality it is nearer sixty miles away.</p>
- <p>You make good progress on the first day and as darkness approaches, you decide to set up camp for the night. You halt inside a circle of ice pillars that have been forced upwards by the constantly moving ice shelf. The sledges are drawn together and the tent is erected beside them. Once the canvas is secured and the Kanu-dogs have been settled for the night, you begin to prepare your evening meal. Suddenly, a terrifying roar is heard outside the tent.</p>
- <p><quote>By the gods!</quote> cries Irian. <quote>A Baknar!</quote></p>
- <p>Baknar are large carnivorous creatures that dwell near the Kalte coastline. Their usual prey are Gallings or the smaller Ostrels that live at the sea<ch.apos/>s edge. But this Baknar has been attracted by the scent of the dogs. It is about to attack and eat several of your sledge dog team.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to leave the tent and attack the Baknar, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian slowly advances, his white pupil-less eyes sending a shiver down your spine. In his right hand, he clutches a bone scimitar. Although it is raised to strike, his movements are stiff and unsteady as if he were attacking against his will. He is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sledge is unpacked and the equipment is ferried across piece by piece. Everything is going according to plan until the sledge itself is brought over the gorge. Dyce is steering it, taking great pains to keep it in the centre of the narrow bridge, when suddenly the two lead Kanu-dogs slip and fall into the gorge. They hang helplessly in their harnesses, howling and kicking at the air. Dyce frantically pulls on the reins to try and prevent the others from falling as well, but his efforts are in vain. One by one, the other four dogs are pulled from the bridge by the increasing weight of those below.</p>
- <p><quote>Jump, Dyce, jump!</quote> screams Irian, as the last dog plummets into the void. Dyce leaps clear just as the sledge topples into the gorge, but he lands on the narrowest section of ice and loses his footing.</p>
- <p><quote>Help me, help me!</quote> he cries, his fingers clawing at the slippery ice.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you wish to attempt to save Dyce, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you feel there is no way you can save him, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you lower the lever, a stone door slides across and seals off the rubbish-strewn chamber. When you raise the lever, the stone door slides open once again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to enter the room and investigate its contents, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to continue along the east passage, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tentacled horror rises from the moat and attacks you. You glimpse Vonotar raising his black staff and fixing his gaze towards Loi-Kymar. He is attacking the old magician with his Mindforce. You realize that if Loi-Kymar is killed, the secret of the Guildstaff will die with him.</p>
- <p>Before you can do anything else, you must fight the monster to the death. This is an Akraa<ch.apos/>Neonor: one of the undead. Remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by this enemy during the combat, due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akraa<ch.apos/>Neonor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you win the combat in five rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If the combat takes longer than five rounds, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of his attack has knocked you to the ground. By the time you have staggered to your feet, you see that he has stopped and removed his skis.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the bottom of the staircase you discover a new tunnel going northwards. You are about to follow it when your hand touches a lever protruding from the wall to your right. A closer examination reveals a secret door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to open the door, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to continue along the new tunnel, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gale gradually drops, the air clears, and the Viad Glacier is revealed in all its splendour. The even surface of ice crystals look like a carpet of snow glittering with gems of every hue<ch.emdash/>yellow, violet, blue, green, orange and crimson; yet the crystals are of such brilliance, they would put any jewel in the shade. The ice wall rises over eight hundred feet and for the main part it is a smooth but very steep climb. Although the weather is fine, it takes the best part of a day to climb the glacier<ch.apos/>s edge. All of the equipment has to be unloaded and taken to the top of the glacier where it is repacked <!--ERRTAG-RE-200050-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200050--> the sledges. The Kanu-dogs do hardly anything but fight, and your food is so shaken up in the climb that a gruesome mush is all that remains of it.</p>
- <p>By the end you are exhausted. With daylight fading fast, you decide to pitch camp in the shelter of a natural ice bowl, and settle down to a much deserved night<ch.apos/>s rest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If the number you have picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step <!--ERRTAG-RE-200920-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200920--> the quartz, you sense a vibration that runs up your leg to your knee. You see that, within the flagstone, a dull light pulsates and a humming sound can be heard emanating from the altar.</p>
- <p>With your heart pounding, you prepare yourself for an attack and slowly advance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the massive door, you desperately cast your eyes over it in the hope of discovering a way to make it open. The door is completely smooth; it has no handle, lock or keyhole. The creature will soon reach the top of the ramp, and you are about to cry out in desperation when you notice a block of granite set into the nearby wall. It has a small triangle cut into its surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you possess a Blue Stone Triangle, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the edge of your cloak, you wipe away a section of the pentagram that is wide enough to let the man escape. You notice that he is painfully thin and unsteady on his feet.</p>
- <p><quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-201948-->My thanks, Kai Lord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-201948-->. I shall endeavour to repay your kindness some day, if we ever escape from this fortress</quote> he says. <quote>You had best lead, for my eyes ail me. I have suffered snow-blindness and the pain still lingers on.</quote></p>
- <p>You lead the way into the passage and are about to turn north into the main corridor, when a pair of steely-fingered hands suddenly close around your throat from behind. A hideous cry betrays the merchant<ch.apos/>s true identity: he is a Helghast, a deadly shape-changing servant of the Darklords. He has tricked you into releasing him from the pentagram, and he now intends to murder you.</p>
- <p>You desperately fight for air as his skeletal fingers burn and tear at your throat. You lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you are still alive, you manage to break free of his grip, but you must now fight this creature to the death. Due to the surprise of its attack, you cannot swallow any potions before the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stopper in this Vial is jammed and you have to take great care not to break the slender glass neck. It gradually loosens and you sniff the orange liquid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you have the Kai Discipline of either Sixth Sense or Weaponskill, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you do not possess either Discipline, you become suspicious of this potion and decide to discard it. <link-text>Return to 10</link-text> and decide your next course of action.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decline Irian<ch.apos/>s offer and return to the tent. However, the others, having congratulated you, leave the tent and join Irian. You watch in amazement as they, too, grab handfuls of Baknar oil and smear it inside their clothing.</p>
- <p>Later that night, you eventually get to sleep but only after plugging both nostrils with cloth. The others seem oblivious to the dreadful smell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Hall of the Brumalmarc is a vast chamber constructed of crystal blocks rising to a central plateau. On this stands the Brumalmarc throne, as old as Ikaya itself. There, Vonotar sits, surrounded by the tomes and eldritch trappings of a necromancer. He is wrapped in study and does not see you enter the hall. He remains oblivious to your presence until Loi-Kymar sneezes.</p>
- <p><quote>Who dares disturb me?</quote> he hisses, rising from the Brumalmarc throne, his eyes searching for an intruder. Upon seeing you, he emits a horrified gasp and fumbles for his black staff. He has the look of a criminal who has been discovered in the act of some dreadful crime. Quickly you raise your weapon and begin to climb the crystal pyramid. You know that you have little time to reach him if you are to overpower and capture him alive.</p>
- <p>You reach the edge of the plateau in time to see a wide circle of blocks descending around the throne. Between you and Vonotar, a deep moat is forming. Then from the depths of the moat you hear a ghastly, inhuman gibbering. You brace yourself for combat but are totally unprepared for the horror that now faces you. From out of the dark slithers a huge, ghoulish, green monster. Its deformed head is a mass of tentacles and suckers that ooze a putrid black slime. At the centre of this writhing mass a hideous yellow eye pulsates. Vonotar has control over this monster and he is directing it towards you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>From out of the dark slithers a huge ghoulish green
-monster over which Vonotar has control</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="663" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="663" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you possess an Effigy, <link-text>turn immediately to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you do not possess an Effigy but do possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you have neither of the above, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kalkoth is dead but its growls still seem to echo around the cavern. You suddenly realize that another of the beasts is now thundering down the tunnel towards you. It is the Kalkoth<ch.apos/>s mate, and she is hell-bent on revenge. You now have only one possible escape route: you must cross the lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sidestep the hissing creature and strike a blow at its head that would maim any mortal warrior. To your horror, the Helghast advances towards you unscathed. It is a powerful captain of the undead, and is immune to normal weapons. An agent of the Darklords, it has been sent to kill Vonotar for his failure at the Battle of Holmgulf. Now free from the pentagram that imprisoned it, the Helghast can complete its mission and return to the rewards and praise of its masters.</p>
- <p>You cry out in terror as the Helghast<ch.apos/>s fingers rend and burn at your throat. But your cries fade unheeded in the dark passage; only death will end your agony.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Running for the tunnel entrance, you quickly leave the icy river far behind. You follow the tunnel for countless hours as it bends its way northwards. It becomes impossible to recall what hour of the day it is; the perpetual half-light of these caverns never changes. Through fissures in the wall of the tunnel, you catch glimpses of other chambers, and you marvel at the sheer scale of the labyrinth.</p>
- <p>You are nearly asleep on your feet when you suddenly detect the aroma of cooked meat. It is coming from a chamber just a few yards ahead to your right. You are very hungry and must soon eat a Meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to investigate the chamber, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to ignore the chamber and continue, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the pungent smell of distilled Graveweed. This black concentration is a very powerful poison, and you quickly replace the stopper to prevent the noxious fumes from escaping. If you wish to keep this Potion, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been following the Ice Barbarian scouts for nearly two hours when a fierce ice squall rises from the west. The terrain becomes very broken with drifts of snow hiding the razor-sharp ridges and undulations of the ice beneath. For the Ice Barbarian scouts with their skis (fashioned from the ribs of Kalte mammoths), the treacherous surface presents no problems. But to cross it on foot is a slow and painful ordeal.</p>
- <p>The biting wind whips across the glacier, bringing with it clouds of fine snow that obscure your vision. You realize the danger of being caught in the open in the middle of a Kalte blizzard, and signal to the others to call off the chase. Walking towards your scouts, you suddenly plummet through the surface of the ice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bold plan springs to your mind. If you pose as an Ice Barbarian, you may be able to place the bowl of herbs near to the guards; in the dim light of the corridor, the smoke would be difficult to detect. Loi-Kymar agrees to your suggestion and prepares a mixture of herbs to prevent you succumbing to the fumes yourself.</p>
- <p>Clad in the furs of an Ice Barbarian, you march along the corridor with the bowl hidden inside your jacket.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the snow-swept gloom you can make out two small pinpoints of red light. They are growing larger. Suddenly, in the gloom you see the shape of a large and hideous, four-legged creature. It leaps at you, its red eyes glowering and its fanged mouth open to reveal a long barbed tongue, lashing towards your face.</p>
- <p><quote>Agh! A Kalkoth!</quote> screams Fenor. He rushes to your side, holding a sword high in his hand. He attempts to strike at the creature<ch.apos/>s tongue. But the creature is already upon you, and you must fight it.</p>
- <p>In spite of Fenor<ch.apos/>s attack the beast only seems to be interested in you. Fenor does not receive any wounds as he stabs at it from behind.</p>
- <p>Deduct an additional 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from the Kalkoth<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total for each round of combat you fight. This represents the damage inflicted by Fenor.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during this combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you kill the creature without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Gold Crowns clatter along the corridor, but do not have the desired effect. The Ice Barbarian remains at his post, seemingly unaware of the gold now lying just a few feet away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to attempt this ploy again, <link-text>return to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you have no more Gold Crowns or do not wish to attempt this ploy again, you can attack the guard by <link-text>turning to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you prefer, you can go back along the corridor, past the junction, and explore the west corridor by <link-text>turning to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You discover a low passage that opens out into a cavern full of stalagmites. There are two exits in the opposite ice wall; both disappear into darkness. In the snow around the entrances of both tunnels are many strange tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to explore the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint towards the northern corridor as fast as your twisted ankle will allow.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If your total is now 4<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel is short and soon leads you to a small cavern. In the centre of the cavern lie two corpses, both human. In spite of the freezing temperature, they are badly decomposed; they have obviously been dead for a very long time. Both are attired in furs and one still has a flint dagger grasped in his hand. From the position of the bodies, it looks as if they killed each other in a desperate fight.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small17.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small17.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to search the corpses, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you wish to continue, you may leave this cavern by the tunnel in the far wall. <link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to retrace your steps and take the other tunnel, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your power upon the lock, but you find it difficult to visualize the inner mechanism.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, you may add 2 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If your total is now 5<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dead Ice Barbarian<ch.apos/>s child cowers over his father<ch.apos/>s body and stares at you with hatred blazing in his eyes. You notice that the other Ice Barbarian scouts are closing in and you must act quickly to save yourself.</p>
- <p>You decide to use the boy as a hostage, but he is like a wild animal. He bites, scratches and kicks to free himself from your grip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you close the Bracelet around your wrist, a terrible pain shoots through your head. You are being attacked by a powerful Mindforce, which is draining your will.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, <link-text>turn immediately to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The next day, thick snow clouds have descended over the Ljuk ice shelf and there is little wind. As you draw closer to the edge of the glacier, the surface of the ice shelf becomes very rough and broken. Slabs of solid ice jut out at every angle, forming difficult obstacles. You are forced to dismount from the sledges and manhandle them across the hummocks and ridges, as you try to reach the smoother slope of the distant Viad Glacier.</p>
- <p>You have covered half a mile when ahead you see a large crevasse. This great crack in the ice is only two or three feet wide; but it extends for over a mile in either direction. For safety<ch.apos/>s sake, you agree to tie a rope around your waists and link up together. Should one person fall into a crevasse, the others should be able to pull him out.</p>
- <p>You cross this narrow fissure successfully, only to find yourselves in a maze of crevasses. Thin layers of snow hide their locations, and you only detect their presence by testing the ground with your weapon.</p>
- <p>You have covered less than half a mile when you come to a crevasse over eight feet wide. You stare downwards, but there is no light to be seen in the black yawning void. Your sledges are ten feet long and could bridge the gap. But if the icy edge were to collapse, you could lose all your equipment at once.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to unload the sledges and use them as a bridge, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to jump across with the Kanu-dogs, and then pull the sledges after you, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue along the corridor for over fifteen minutes until you reach a massive stone doorway, twenty feet high. Placing your ear to the warm surface, you feel the stone vibrating and hear low rumbling noises. Like the other stone doors of Ikaya, this entrance has a lever in the nearby wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you wish to pull the lever and enter, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you do not wish to enter, you can return to the junction and take the east passage by <link-text>turning to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Letting the boy go free at the last possible moment, you grab the sledge whip and lash the dogs, driving them for everything they are worth. On all sides, flurries of arrows whistle past you and several thud into the framework of the empty sledge. A couple of the Ice Barbarian scouts give chase, but your dog team is now much faster and you soon outdistance even their arrows.</p>
- <p>By nightfall, you reach the very edge of the Viad Mountains. This vast granite range rises sheer out of the ice and snow and presents you with an impassable barrier on such a moonless night. Meanwhile a wind arises in the west, heralding a night squall. You must find shelter or you will surely perish in the blizzard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you have the Kai Discipline of either Tracking or Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you do not have either of these skills, you can look for shelter towards the north by <link-text>turning to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you prefer, you can search towards the south by <link-text>turning to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shaking with shock and exhaustion, you finally reach the pass just as night is about to fall. In the distance, you see a small cave located directly beneath a frozen waterfall. The wind has become much stronger and you decide to take shelter in the cave for the night. However as you enter, you are surprised to see a shaft of light falling from a fissure at the rear of the cave.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You cautiously approach the strange glow, but fail to see a snow covered crevasse and fall in a tumble of snow and ice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you possess a Glowing Crystal, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have cuts and bruises on both legs and your nose bleeds from striking it against a stalactite. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but you can count yourself very lucky: you narrowly escaped stepping into a deep fissure hidden in the darkness. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skill and patience finally pay off. A subtle click indicates you have been successful, and as you remove your blade, the great stone lid slowly opens to reveal a magnificent Silver Helmet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to wear this splendid helmet, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to leave it in the stone chest, you may continue your exploration towards the stairs by <link-text>turning to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leap across to the opposite ledge, a tremor shakes the ice and the crevasse suddenly widens. You slip, hitting your head on the edge as you drop into the gaping void. The cord attaching the safety rope to your belt snaps, and you fall into darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The struggle is desperate but in your very desperation you find the strength to survive.</p>
- <p>Any weapon(s) you had has been dragged from your grasp and, bombarded by ice and stone, you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. However, you manage to crawl to the safety of the northern archway. You are now unarmed but grateful to be alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see another passage leading out of the cavern towards the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to creep past the sleeping creatures towards the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you do not want to take the risk of waking them, you can return the way you have just come and enter the other tunnel by <link-text>turning to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to attack the sleeping creatures, you can do so by <link-text>turning to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor ends at a large stone door. Unlike the others, this door has no lever to open it, but you do notice that a small slot has been cut into a nearby wall. You are examining the slot when you are disturbed by a howling mob of mutated Ice Barbarians, advancing along the corridor towards you. You prepare for combat but there are too many of them for you. Although you fight bravely, they eventually overwhelm you and stab you to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After nearly a mile, the ice-walled tunnel opens out into a beautiful grotto. Melt-water cascades over a large outcrop of silvery mineral, which casts a dazzling display of reflections.</p>
- <p>You can see that there is a small cave beneath the waterfall, which disappears into the silver rock. There appear to be no other exits from the grotto.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to enter the cave, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to return along the passage and take the other tunnel, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghastly tentacled horror rises out of the moat and attacks you. You must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akraa<ch.apos/>Neonor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>During the combat, you glimpse Vonotar, his black staff raised, fixing his gaze on Loi-Kymar. He is attacking the old man with the force of his mind. If Loi-Kymar is killed, the secret of his Guildstaff will die with him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you win the combat in seven rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If the combat lasts more than seven rounds, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bowl creaks and splinters of stone fall from the ceiling as you swing across the black fissure, but you are lucky; the Rope holds and you land safely on the other side. With a flick of your wrist you retrieve the Rope and set off along the passage.</p>
- <p>You have gone only a few yards when you notice an arched stone door to your left, adorned with strange carvings. These carvings depict hundreds of skeletons entwined around smooth blocks of stone. To the side of the door you see that a lever in the wall is raised.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small19.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small19.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to pull the lever and open the door, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Kalkoth stop roaring. They have picked up the scent of Baknar oil on your skin. Within seconds they appear and charge towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you wish to stand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to turn and run, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A small spy-hole has been cut into the centre of the door. You cautiously peer through and see the old man in blue robes who you saw before through the portal above the cell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to open the door, pull the lever in the nearby wall and <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to ignore the old man, continue along the corridor towards the junction by <link-text>turning to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Baknar are fierce and dangerous creatures. They are afraid of only one thing<ch.emdash/>fire. Grabbing a torch from the pile of equipment, you light it and leave the tent.</p>
- <p>The wind has become much stronger since you first made camp. It whips the fine snow into small whirlwinds that sting your eyes. A moving shadow to your right betrays the Baknar as it lopes towards you. It is preparing to pounce when it sees your guttering torch and shrieks in terror. Seconds later, it has disappeared into the darkness. A quick check of the Kanu-dogs reveals that they are all safe, although still understandably nervous. To ensure that the Baknar does not attack again, you all take it in turns to sit watch that evening, torches and weapons at the ready.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During the night, a fierce blizzard rages, burying your makeshift shelter in over twelve feet of snow. The cold numbs your hands and feet and slowly drains the strength from your body. You slip into a sleep from which you will never awake, for you suffocate to death beneath the snows of Kalte.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding your equipment and your breath, you try to land as quietly as you can on the dusty floor of the corridor. Unfortunately, you twist your ankle in the fall and cannot stifle a yelp of pain. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Then, to your horror, you see an Ice Barbarian seated less than thirty feet away to your left. His head is slowly turning in your direction. However, a quick glance to your right reveals another corridor heading north, less than fifteen feet from where you now kneel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you do not have this skill, you can try to run for the north corridor and pray that the Ice Barbarian does not see you. <link-text>Turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you prefer, you can attack and attempt to silence the Ice Barbarian before he can raise the alarm, by <link-text>turning to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see the shadowy outline of the hideous creature as it charges towards you along the tunnel. It is blind with rage and hungry for blood. You suddenly realize that if you dive aside as the creature leaps from the tunnel, it may just miss you and plunge headlong <!--ERRTAG-RE-234861-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-234861--> the thin ice of the lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to try to dive aside when the Kalkoth charges from out of the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to stand and fight it when it appears, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian sees you approach and draws his bone sword. He moves to the centre of the bottom stair to prevent you running past him.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you win the combat within four rounds, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you win the fight in more than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All night you cling to the frozen rock-face. The icy wind whips you and you shiver uncontrollably as you fight to stay conscious. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, the Baknar oil keeps you from losing all your essential body warmth and on this desperate occasion, it saves your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155"><link-text>Turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A tooth-encrusted Bone Sword lies at the Barbarian<ch.apos/>s side. You may take this weapon if you wish. You search his body and also discover a Gold Bracelet on his left wrist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you wish to take the Gold Bracelet, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>. (Put it on your wrist and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you do not wish to take the Bracelet, make your way quickly along the corridor towards a distant junction by <link-text>turning to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cyclone is tearing at your clothes and bombarding you with chunks of ice and rock. You grit your teeth and try to run but the cold saps your strength, and you are forced to claw your way along the wall to avoid being sucked into the swirling vortex.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is less than 10, deduct 3 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If your number is now <!--ERRTAG-RE-237434-->-3<ch.endash/>3<!--/ERRTAG-RE-237434-->, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If your number is now 4<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you arrive back at the tent, Dyce cooks a delicious Meal that fills your stomach and raises your spirits. You have made good progress and, in spite of the physical hardships, you feel confident and eager to continue.</p>
- <p>Irian fetches the sleeping furs from the sledge and you all prepare for a good night<ch.apos/>s sleep. The only clothes you ever remove are your boots<ch.emdash/>the few days that you have spent in this desolate land have taught you much about survival. As you take off your boots, you take care to leave them in the shape of your feet: in these temperatures, your soft boots soon freeze as hard as stone, making them agony to put on next morning if you don<ch.apos/>t. Unlacing the boots requires bare fingers, and you constantly have to pause and thrust your hands back into your mittens to avoid frostbite setting in. Curled up in your furs, your teeth chattering, and the wind howling outside, you eventually fall into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You point the Sommerswerd towards Vonotar<ch.apos/>s crystal rod. In an instant, the cone of frost arcs away from the bridge and shatters against the golden sword. You hear Vonotar curse you as, once again, the power of the Sommerswerd saves you from his destructive magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, the Kalkoth has picked up your scent and launches an attack on your hiding place. Its huge paw swipes at you and claws open the sleeve of your jacket. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You realize you can only escape this creature by running across the lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to escape from the Kalkoth, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to fight it, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Turning a corner, you breathe a sigh of relief. Behind you all is silent. But you become aware that the low rumbling sound you detected earlier is much louder in this corridor. A few yards along to your left, a short passage leads to a closed stone door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to investigate the door, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to continue along the corridor towards the north, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than a mile when the first of the Ice Barbarian scouts appear to the north on skis. At first, there are only two of the fearsome warriors, but they are soon joined by three others. They are large, muscular and bedecked with furs. Some of them wear bone armour. Despite their size, they glide across the snow with an almost feline grace and speed. Each of them has a pole attached to his back from which a small flag flutters.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a bone-tipped arrow whistles past your knee and embeds itself in the sledge. An Ice Barbarian scout skis past to your right. He is less than ten yards away and you can clearly see his slanted eyes and sharp cheek-bones. You suddenly realize that what you had mistaken for muscle and fur is in fact an Ice Barbarian child. Each scout is carrying a large backpack containing a small child. These children are armed with small bone bows, and they fire a constant stream of arrows as their fathers ski nearer and nearer.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Each Ice Barbarian scout is carrying a backpack
-containing a child armed with a bone bow</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="640" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="640" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly Irian falls, an arrow buried in his back. Dyce runs to his aid but is shot down before he has taken a dozen steps. Fenor is hit. An arrow passes straight through his throat. He bravely staggers on for nearly a minute before collapsing in the snow. You are on your own. An Ice Barbarian scout skis past to your left and returns towards you head on. He has a spear under one arm, which is levelled at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you wish to fight the Ice Barbarian scout, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to try and escape, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monolith suddenly explodes, sending hundreds of razor-sharp shards screaming through the air. You are pierced by the stone shrapnel and thrown to the far wall by the sheer force of the blast. You lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bone box contains a beautiful Diamond. Its many facets gleam and sparkle, even in the dim half-light of the ice hall. In Sommerlund, a jewel of this size and quality would be worth thousands of crowns. If you wish to keep the Diamond, slip it into your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">You can now examine the fortress door by <link-text>turning to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the low rumbling noise echoing throughout this part of Ikaya is much louder along the west corridor than the east. There is something unnatural about its tone that makes you feel uneasy. You decide to avoid the west corridor and set off towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349"><link-text>Turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The next day is bitterly cold. A strong wind from the west blows relentlessly as you steer your sledge towards the Hrod Basin. The snow clogs your eyes and your lips crack and bleed, but by midday you reach the edge of the basin. Irian and Dyce<ch.apos/>s sledge arrives at the ice wall first and they eagerly encourage you onwards.</p>
- <p>Without any warning, a great crack appears between the two sledges, opening with a tremendous roar, until you are faced by a huge dark crevasse. Frantically you pull on the reins but it is too late to prevent your Kanu-dog team from disappearing into the void. Your sledge is left balancing on the edge of the crevasse, while the team of howling Kanu-dogs dangle helplessly in their harnesses below you. Very carefully, you risk a glance into the chasm. You see that the first two dogs have broken free and dropped over one-hundred-and-fifty feet to a ledge below. One of them appears to be dead. The other is badly injured and whimpers beside the still body of its comrade. Suddenly, a shudder jolts the sledge and you gasp with fright.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to crawl with Fenor to the rear of the sledge, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you decide to try to leap clear of the sledge <!--ERRTAG-RE-246372-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246372--> the cracked ice, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor in which you now stand is far warmer than the icy cavern outside. For the first time in many days, you can lower the hood of your cloak and remove your mittens without risking frostbite.</p>
- <p>You notice that the stone passage ascends to a landing where another passage branches off to the east. M<ch.apos/>lare bowls hang at regular intervals along the arched ceiling, their unnatural light illuminating the carved walls.</p>
- <p>As you approach the landing, you notice an archway leading into a small room beyond. A strange sight meets your eyes. Ragged furs, pottery shards and the debris of hundreds of years seem to have been thrown into this chamber. A large lever protrudes from the wall beside the archway.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to enter the room and investigate the contents, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to pull the lever, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to explore eastwards along the passage, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill, you press yourself into the shadow cast by a pilaster. The Ice Barbarians pass within six inches of you, but do not detect that you are there. Once you are sure that they have disappeared, you emerge from the shadows and continue along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sledge contains the following equipment. You may take any of the following Items and store them in your Backpack, but remember that your Pack can only hold a maximum of 8 Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough Food for 1<ch.endash/>5 Meals (each Meal counts as 1 Item)</li>
- <li>Tent (counts as 3 items)</li>
- <li>Sleeping Furs (counts as 2 items)</li>
- <li>Long Rope (counts as 2 items)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Dyce volunteers to return to the <cite>Cardonal</cite> with the Kanu-dog teams and the sledge, while the rest of you push on towards Ikaya, the ice fortress.</p>
- <p>Ikaya was carved out of the Hrod Range many ages ago, by a race of creatures that have long since disappeared. Thousands of years passed before the Ice Barbarians migrated here from the Uncharted Void, claiming Ikaya for themselves. Their leaders, the <ch.apos/>Brumalmarc<ch.apos/> as they are called, have ruled over Kalte from the safe shelter of this fortress ever since.</p>
- <p>You have covered nearly five miles when Irian suddenly points to the west. <quote>There<ch.ellips/> over there. I<ch.apos/>m sure I saw something.</quote></p>
- <p>You halt and strain your eyes to try to identify something unusual in the monotonous landscape of ice and snow.</p>
- <p><quote>Look over there!</quote> shouts Fenor, pointing towards a ridge less than a mile away. Two fur-clad warriors are standing on top of a large slab of ice. They are staring at you.</p>
- <p><quote>Ice Barbarians!</quote> whispers Irian, his voice shaking with fear. <quote>If they beat us to Ikaya, we<ch.apos/>re as good as dead.</quote></p>
- <p>You are still ten miles from the ice fortress and less than two hours of daylight remain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you wish to ignore the Ice Barbarians and press on to Ikaya, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to attack them, and try to prevent them warning others, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Twenty feet directly below the portal, you can see a man dressed in a dark cloak. He is kneeling in the centre of a large pentagram, which is chalked on the floor of the dingy cell.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to call to the man, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you decide to remain silent, leave the portal and continue on your way along the passage towards the stairs by <link-text>turning to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stopper is sealed with wax. If you wish to break the seal, you must risk smashing the thin glass of the Vial.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small21.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small21.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to attempt to break the seal, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you are suspicious of the contents and do not wish to risk breaking the Vial, leave it and <link-text>return to 10</link-text> to choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You frantically pull at your trapped foot and free it just as the sledge topples over into the crevasse. Fenor rushes to your side and pulls you away from the crumbling edge of this void. You both safely jump the widening gap and join the others.</p>
- <p>You have lost your dogs, your sledge and most of your food, but you are alive. In spite of the loss and the additional hardships that will result, your guides agree to continue the mission.</p>
- <p>In the distance you can see a narrow passage at the edge of the ice shelf where it joins the Hrod Basin. By nightfall, you have reached the shelter of this narrow pass and decide to set up camp. A quick check of your remaining food soon reveals the need to cut rations by half in order to reach Ikaya. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the meagre evening Meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone buttons rise less than an inch above the smooth altar surface. You notice that they are each surrounded by strange, barely perceptible, hieroglyphs, eroded by the passage of time. You now have to decide in which sequence you will press the buttons. If you possess the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, you can depress the buttons without actually touching them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you decide to press the left button then the right, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you decide to press the right button, then the left, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you decided to press them both together, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on all your powers of concentration to levitate the bowl of fuming herbs, and send it hovering among the corridor. You bring it to rest in the shadow of the pilaster and watch its effects with great curiosity; for in less than a minute, the Ice Barbarian guards have collapsed to the floor.</p>
- <p><quote>Now<ch.apos/>s our chance,</quote> whispers Loi-Kymar, and he ushers you out of the kitchen. You approach the Hall of the Brumalmarc undetected and discover that one of the magnificent jewelled doors is unlocked. Drawing your weapon, you gently push the door ajar and enter Vonotar<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the serpent to be a Javek, a two-headed and deadly poisonous ice snake. As it slithers nearer, you can clearly see the open jaw of the second head and the yellow, curved fangs dripping with venom. It moves very quickly and you know that you will not be able to outrun it along this narrow ledge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you possess a Firesphere, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you do not, you must prepare to fight. <link-text>Turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Helghast smoulders and decays at your feet, a vile green gas seeping from beneath its robes. As you stare at the remains, you realize that this creature must have been sent here to kill Vonotar by the Darklords who crave Vonotar<ch.apos/>s death for his failure at the Battle of Holmgulf. The evil wizard must have discovered the Helghast and imprisoned it within a pentagram until he could devise some way of killing it for good.</p>
- <p>You gingerly touch your wounded throat and thank the gods that you wield the Sommerswerd<ch.emdash/>its power has once again saved your life. You turn and quickly descend the stairs, leaving behind the Helghast<ch.apos/>s foul remains.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that something is very wrong here. There are no mines in Kalte, and, as a result, not only gold but all metals are considered rare and precious. The only means by which Ice Barbarians can obtain metal is by fur trading at Ljuk each summer, and then it is only steel that interests them. You suspect therefore, that these bracelets are worn by force rather than choice. If you wish to put on one of the Gold Bracelets, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you take a Bracelet, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to ignore the Bracelets and continue your exploration of Ikaya, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes nearly an hour to cross, but you eventually make it in safety. The ascent of the glacier is a daunting task. The ice wall is smooth but very steep, rising over eight hundred feet. All of the equipment has to be unloaded from the sledges and ferried to the top of the glacier, where it is repacked piece by piece. The Kanu-dogs do hardly anything but fight amongst themselves and your food gets so shaken up, that all that remains to eat that evening is an unsavoury mess.</p>
- <p>On the summit of the glacier wall, you pitch tent in the shelter of a natural ice bowl and settle down to a much deserved rest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If the number you have picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the liquid to be distilled Laumspur, a herb of great healing properties. This concentrated Potion is powerful enough to restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you wish to keep this Vial, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>return to 10</link-text> and decide your next course of action.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man hesitates and then answers. <quote>Why, the Rusty Anchor Inn, of course.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you now wish to wipe away the outside of the pentagram and free him, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you do not wish to free him, close the cell door and return to the main corridor by <link-text>turning to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a short walk, you arrive at a massive ice hall full of crystal stalagmites and stalactites. The floor is covered with animal tracks and bones, yet the vast hall seems empty and still. You notice that the northern wall is a completely smooth surface of granite blocks stretching upwards to the icy ceiling, over one hundred feet above. You suddenly realize that you are staring at the foundation stones of Ikaya<ch.emdash/>you have reached the ice fortress.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You arrive at a massive ice hall full of crystal
-stalagmites and stalactites</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="683" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="683" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Partially obscured by a large mound of crystals, you can just make out a ramp leading up to a massive stone door in the fortress wall. Your discovery brings renewed hope. If you can gain entry to Ikaya and quickly capture Vonotar, there is still time to reach your ship, the <cite>Cardonal</cite>, before the pack-ice starts to freeze.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to cross the icy hall and examine the stone door, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you decide to stop and search the bone-littered floor, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Gold Bracelet snaps shut around your wrist, a terrible pain shoots through your head. You are being attacked by a powerful Mindforce, that is trying to drain your will.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, <link-text>turn immediately to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you do not possess this Kai Discipline, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach the bottom of a flight of broad stone steps that ascends northwards to a landing, thirty feet above. The centre of each step has been worn smooth by the feet of the countless creatures that once inhabited the lower levels of cold Ikaya. As you climb, you wonder how long you will remain undetected. So far you have neither seen nor heard any other living soul in these deserted passages.</p>
- <p>You have the element of surprise on your side; you now pray that Vonotar is unprepared for an intruder from the depths of his own fortress. You reach the landing and pass through an empty hall, towards a darkened archway beyond. Here, the passage splits and branches off towards the east and west. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to take the east passage, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you decide to take the west passage, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two days that follow are sheer hell. Ridges formed by deeply fissured ice-mounds continually bar your way, and you are forced to dismount and manhandle the sledges across them. Progress is slow. The Kanu-dogs are nervous and take fright at the slightest instance and the sledges frequently capsize and spill their loads.</p>
- <p>A haze of fine snow obscures your vision. On two occasions, Fenor and Irian slip into crevasses and have to be pulled out by their safety ropes. Then your sledge meets with a similar mishap. Dyce volunteers to be lowered into the crevasse on the end of a rope, and unloads the damaged sledge so that it is light enough to be hauled out. After two hours of backbreaking effort, the sledge is dragged from the void, but only for you to discover that it is damaged beyond repair and will have to be abandoned.</p>
- <p>A gale rises from the west, and blows so fiercely that you have difficulty in standing. Within a few minutes, the conditions have become so bad that you are obliged to pitch a tent and wait for the gale to die down. Hour after hour, the wind buffets the tent relentlessly. As you slowly drift off to sleep, you can only dread what the next morning may bring; you are totally unaware of the amazing sight that awaits you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly lose consciousness. You have succumbed to the baneful power of an ancient Doomstone, a power that is deadly to all living creatures. Death is inevitable and comes quickly.</p>
- <p>It may be of consolation to learn that your body is soon discovered by an Ice Barbarian guard, who presents it (together with the Doomstone) to Vonotar. The traitor is so elated by your death, that he orders your body to be encased in ice and displayed like a trophy in his hall. However, the radiations of the Doomstone will cause the evil wizard months of suffering and eventually bring about his own death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall over thirty feet and land flat on your back in the snow-filled crevasse. You are surrounded by sharp stalagmites and jagged ice, but you have miraculously escaped death and injury. Shaken, but thankful to be alive, you stagger to your feet and grasp a crystal stalagmite for support. You slowly become aware that you can see your hands quite clearly. A faint light is seeping from a fissure to your left. With curiosity getting the better of your natural caution, you stagger across the crevasse floor and explore this mysterious cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian is on his knees when you enter combat; he cannot react to your attack during the first two rounds. Ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose during the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone door is perfectly smooth. No hinges, locks or levers are visible from inside the room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you do not possess it, you can only leave this room via the passage in the north wall. <link-text>Turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are remarkably lucky. Hidden by the darkness is a deep fissure into which you nearly stepped. With a few extra bruises to your knees and shins, you press onwards towards the distant light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You carefully make your way across the temple floor until you are standing next to the altar. The statue seems cold and lifeless, but you sense that someone or something is trapped within. You can almost hear their desperate cries for release.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to strike the statue with a weapon, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you do not possess a weapon, or if you wish to leave the temple, head towards the northern archway by <link-text>turning to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the beast shrieks a ghastly death-cry, the horrible stench of its body fills your nostrils. Even the Kanu-dogs wrinkle their noses in disgust and shy away from the evil smell.</p>
- <p>When Irian appears at your side with a skinning knife, you wince at the thought of skinning this dreadful creature. You watch with distaste as Irian cuts open the beast from throat to belly, and peels back the thick white fur. You cannot believe your eyes when he scoops out handfuls of thick oil from inside the skin and smears it all over his face and body. <quote>Baknar oil,</quote> he shouts enthusiastically. <quote>Keeps you dry and warm. Better than fur for keeping out the Kalte ice.</quote> He offers you a handful of the vile oil.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small22.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small22.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to accept his offer, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If the thought of smelling like a vat of rancid cheese does not appeal to you, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You depress the lever and the stone door slides aside to reveal a large chamber. It is cold, stale and empty, except for a granite chest lying near the east wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to make a closer examination of the chest, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to ignore the chamber and continue up the stairs instead, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old man slowly raises his head. His eyes look tired and bruised. The congealed blood of several wounds mats his long grey beard. He struggles to his feet and peers into the darkness above. <quote>Who lurks there? Is that you Vonotar? Show yourself, worm, or be gone. I<ch.apos/>ll not cower from you, nor will I hide my loathing. You will never break me, traitor!</quote> he shouts, defiantly shaking his scrawny fist in the air.</p>
- <p>You cannot mistake his accent, for it is identical to your own. The old man is one of your countrymen, a Sommlending from the northern port of Toran.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you possess a Rope, you can lower it to the floor and rescue the old man from the cell by <link-text>turning to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you do not have a Rope, or if you do not wish to rescue him, you can continue along the passage by <link-text>turning to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>About three hundred feet from the base of the ice staircase, you become dizzy and lose your footing. You try desperately to hang on to the rock-face, but your fingers are numb with the cold and you fall to your doom in the valley below. The perfectly preserved remains of your body will be found by explorers, two thousand years from now.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that a group of warriors is approaching from the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">Take the north corridor by <link-text>turning to 104</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The glass shatters in your hand, and the black liquid splashes over the stone table. Cursing your misfortune, you carefully sniff the few remaining drops lying in a curve of jagged glass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you have ever <!--ERRTAG-RE-272490-->visited the Graveyard of the Ancients and survived<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272490-->, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you have not, you are suspicious of this pungent liquid, and quickly discard the broken glass. <link-text>Return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the afternoon, your journey towards the glacier gradually becomes far more laborious. The blood vessels in both your eyes begin to swell until you feel as though your eyeballs are being tattooed with red-hot needles, or as if your eyelids are full of grit and sand.</p>
- <p>Fenor is the first to notice your condition, and he halts the sledges. <quote>Snow-blindness,</quote> he says, tearing an old rag into long strips of bandage. <quote>If you go on like that, you<ch.apos/>ll go mad with pain before nightfall</quote></p>
- <p>You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your sore eyes are swathed in bandages and you are made to lie amongst the equipment at the rear of the sledge. Then the trek continues. By nightfall, you reach the edge of the Viad Glacier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Your time has come,</quote> shouts a voice, but it is Loi-Kymar and not Vonotar who now speaks. A knot of herbs flies through the air and hits Vonotar squarely in the chest. In an instant, the hunchback wizard is engulfed in a tangle of vines that ensnare him from head to toe. Loi-Kymar bridges the moat with creepers and joins you on the platform.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>In an instant, the hunchback wizard is engulfed in a
-tangle of vines</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="685" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="685" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Be sure to remove his rings and amulets,</quote> he says, as he busily searches for his Guildstaff. <quote>He is a master of trickery. We would not want him to miss the special homecoming that awaits him in Sommerlund.</quote></p>
- <p>You marvel at the old man<ch.apos/>s composure. After such a desperate fight, he seems completely unruffled. <quote>Ah! Here she is,</quote> he announces triumphantly as he withdraws his Guildstaff from beneath the Brumalmarc throne.</p>
- <p>You pass him your map of Kalte and point out the location of the <cite>Cardonal</cite> <quote>I<ch.apos/>ll not be needing that,</quote> he replies, a little contemptuously. <quote>Maps are invariably wrong<ch.emdash/>I prefer to rely on my own sense of direction.</quote> The old magician raises his staff and a dazzling beam of light shoots from its tip. He makes three wide sweeps of the air and the Hall of the Brumalmarc is transformed into an umbrella of colour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kalkoth hits you with such force that you tumble backwards onto the thin ice of the lake. You are concussed, and unconscious of the sharp teeth that now engulf your sinking body.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the west wall of the corridor you see another stone door, with a small spy-hole cut into the centre revealing a cell on the other side. An old man is huddled in the far corner of the cell, his face and hair matted with blood and dirt. His blue robes are so filthy that the crescents and stars embroidered on them are almost totally obscured.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to open the cell door, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you decide to ignore this old man, and continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Discipline of Tracking reveals to you that the left tunnel heads north and the right tunnel heads east. Ikaya is about fifty miles to the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to take the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you decide to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door crashes shut, sealing the exit to the passage outside. Gradually you become aware of a vibration in the floor; but it lasts for only a few seconds and is followed by a dull click. Your gaze is drawn back to the black monolith. A crack has appeared in its surface. It runs the entire circumference of the slab and it is getting wider and wider.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you decide to press yourself into a corner of the chamber, and take cover beneath your cloak, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shiver runs up your spine as Dyce<ch.apos/>s screams fade away into the dark gorge. You are staring into the inky blackness when Irian suddenly shouts: <quote>There<ch.ellips/> over there. I<ch.apos/>m sure I saw something.</quote></p>
- <p>You turn to see him pointing not at the gorge but towards the west. <quote>Look, over there,</quote> says Fenor, who is also pointing, but at a ridge of ice in the middle distance. Two fur-clad warriors are standing on top of a large slab of ice. They stare in your direction alerted no doubt by Dyce<ch.apos/>s scream.</p>
- <p><quote>Ice Barbarians,</quote> whispers Irian, his voice shaking with fear. <quote>If they reach Ikaya before us, we<ch.apos/>re as good as dead.</quote></p>
- <p>You are still fifteen miles from the ice fortress and less than three hours of daylight remain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you wish to try and outrun the Ice Barbarians, and press on to Ikaya, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you decide to attack them to prevent them raising the alarm, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sweat breaks out on your forehead as you concentrate on shielding your mind from this psychic attack. Your assailant, whoever or whatever it is, is a very powerful enemy; you know that you must rid yourself of the Bracelet if you are to survive the agony of this mind combat. In order to discard the Gold Bracelet, you will have to break your Mindshield.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 = 10). If you possess the Kai Discipline of Hunting or Sixth Sense, you may deduct 2 from the number you have picked. The resulting total is the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose before ridding yourself of the accursed Bracelet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you are still alive, make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action"><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></a> and <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fenor suddenly leaps to his feet and grabs his sword. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s a Kalkoth. Quickly, arm yourselves or we are done for.</quote> The others fumble for their weapons as Fenor disappears out into the snow. Almost immediately, there is a piercing scream of agony and something is hurled against the tent. The tent collapses and you find yourself lying face to face with Fenor<ch.apos/>s mutilated body.</p>
- <p>Gripped by sudden fear and panic, you scramble out of the tangled chaos and unsheathe your weapon. The hideous shape of a large, four-legged monster leaps at you. Its red eyes glow like hot coals and its fanged mouth is wide open to reveal a long barbed tongue. It is upon you and you must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during this combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you kill the creature without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Due to the surprise of your attack, you strike twice before the Ice Barbarian can react. You do not lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the first two rounds of combat. If the Ice Barbarian is still alive for the third round of combat, he draws a bone scimitar and attacks you. He is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the landing below, you stumble and graze your leg. Sprawled on the stone steps, you notice a gap in the left wall. A door has been cunningly concealed by the intricate carvings. Looking more closely, you see a small lever, which you quickly pull.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The child kicks and bites at your arm like a wild animal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>Otherwise, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to see if you manage to hang on to him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If the number you have picked is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect263-1-foot" idref="sect263-1">
- <p>Even when conducting an extra combat round for evading, you are still subject to turning to <a idref="sect66">Section 66</a> if you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Because the passage is narrow, you must fight the Kalkoth one at a time. Their long venomous tongues flicker, ready to sting you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">11</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Kalkoth 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">8</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the combat, <link-text>turn immediately to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">You can evade the fight at any time by <link-text>turning to 277</link-text>.<footref id="sect263-1" idref="sect263-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you win the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a massive chamber, ill-lit and icy cold: a hidden temple of the Ancients. The floor is made from slabs of quartz and granite and is littered with rock and ice. Your eye follows a line of tall pillars leading towards a sacrificial altar set into an alcove in the northern wall. Upon this altar lies a strange statue, which seems to be carved from smooth white stone. At its head and feet, black staves rest upright in holes bored into the altar stone.</p>
- <p>To the left of the altar there is a darkened archway, through which a flight of stairs ascends out of view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to cross the temple and advance towards the staircase, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to cross the temple floor by stepping only on the quartz flagstones, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to cross the temple by stepping only on the granite flagstones, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This strange creature is a Crystal Frostwyrm, a scavenging beast now living on the remains of the unfortunate creatures who have entered the cavern. Its hard skin is almost transparent, and its internal organs can be seen pulsating inside. A large mouth opens in the crystalline head to reveal row upon row of jagged crystal teeth. Your back is pressed to the stone door and there is no way to evade the monster. You must fight the creature to the death. It is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>This strange creature is a Crystal Frostwyrm and you must
-fight it to the death</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="616" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="616" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Crystal Frostwyrm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You desperately try to release your foot but the sledge is already toppling into the void. With one last effort, you wrench your foot clear, but it is too late to avoid the fall. As you tumble into the crevasse, you hear the horrified screams of your guides fading above you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Loi-Kymar suddenly points to the pocket in which you have put the Glowing Crystal. <quote>Why do you carry a Doomstone, Kai Lord? Are you unaware of the danger it holds?</quote></p>
- <p>You quickly remove the Crystal and show it to the magician. <quote>Agh!</quote> he cries, as if to look upon it causes him pain. <quote>Cast it away before we both succumb to the sickness. It is a cursed gem of the Ancients, it can only bring sickness and death to any mortal who covets its beauty.</quote> Reluctantly, you obey Loi-Kymar<ch.apos/>s wishes and throw the Crystal away. Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to crack the seal in exactly the right place, and thereby avoid smashing the thin glass stem. The vapour rising from the black liquid is sharp and pungent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you have ever visited the Graveyard of the Ancients, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you have not, you quickly replace stopper of the Vial. The vapour is making you nauseous, and you decide against keeping this suspicious fluid. <link-text>Return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach a tunnel on the far side of the chasm and follow it for many miles. You eventually arrive at an enormous chamber, the ceiling of which towers five hundred feet above you. An icy wind, blowing through the many fissures that crack the ceiling, whips around the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to search for a way of climbing up and out through the fissures, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you decide to press on and look for an exit on the far side of the hall, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarians are taken completely by surprise. You have killed one of them before the other has time to react to your attack. He is unarmed but determined to fight you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attack has caused the Ice Barbarian scout to lose his balance. He tumbles in a flurry of snow and broken skis. The fur-clad child rolls clear of his father<ch.apos/>s backpack and lies face downwards in the snow, less, than ten feet away.</p>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian scout is badly dazed by the fall, but is already attempting to stagger to his feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to attack the Ice Barbarian scout before he fully regains his senses, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to grab the child as a hostage and try to escape, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the vile Akraa<ch.apos/>Neonor quivers and dies, Vonotar breaks off mind combat and runs back towards the Brumalmarc throne.</p>
- <p>Loi-Kymar is badly shaken but he has survived the ordeal. He quickly joins you at the edge of the moat and casts a handful of herbs down into the darkness. Within seconds, a mass of vines and creepers coil upwards to form a bridge. You are halfway across the bridge when Vonotar suddenly reappears, a crystal rod held high in his hand. He takes aim at the mass of creepers and a chilling cone of frost hurtles from <!--ERRTAG-RE-292685-->the rod<ch.apos/>s tip<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292685-->.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small23.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small23.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess it, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If the number you have picked is 4<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are to travel to Ikaya by sledge. Two sledges have been loaded with enough food, and equipment for the mission, each drawn by a team of six Kanu-dogs. This sturdy <!--ERRTAG-RE-293810-->breed is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293810--> native to Kalte and make ideal sledge dogs. Their thick tawny coats and powerful chests, as well as their renowned vigour and enthusiasm make them well suited to the harsh work ahead.</p>
- <p>Your three guides, Irian, Fenor and Dyce, are all experienced trappers. They are skilled at survival in this icy desert, and have experienced its many unseen dangers. Once the dogs are in harness, you and Irian climb aboard your sledge and signal to the others to lead the way.</p>
- <p>Staring across the frozen expanse of the Ljuk ice shelf, you see the white glare of the Hrod Basin edge. <quote><ch.thinspace/><quote>Ice-Blink</quote> they call it,</quote> says Irian, his eyes glinting from deep inside the hood of his fur jacket. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s the reflection of the ice shelf. It looks no more than four miles away at most, but it<ch.apos/>s nearer forty than four. The air of Kalte can be very deceptive.</quote></p>
- <p>The weather is bright and windless and you make excellent progress on the first day. As darkness sets in, you decide to set up camp for the night. The sledges are drawn together, and the tent is erected in the salient away from the wind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You carefully examine the altar, and the two black staves protruding from its surface. The crackling arc of energy that linked these staves seemed to die at the very moment you plunged the Sommerswerd into the cyclonic demon. You notice that where the statue had lain, two stone buttons have now risen from the surface of the altar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to press the buttons, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to leave the temple, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel is low and narrow and gradually descends towards the light of a distant cavern. As you reach the tunnel<ch.apos/>s end, you peer cautiously into the cavern beyond, in case you disturb something better left alone. Your caution is well placed, for in the centre of the icy cavern lie two large furry creatures. The remains of a shredded carcass lie on the snow around them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, Tracking or Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you do not possess any of the above skills, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach the junction where the corridor meets another running from east to west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting or Tracking, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to head east, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you decide to go west, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run back into the cave as fast as you can, but the Kalkoth are familiar with this route and they are gaining on you. As you reach the frozen waterfall, you notice the slab of a silvery mineral overhanging the cave mouth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you possess a weapon, you may strike this outcrop and attempt to block the cave, by <link-text>turning to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you do not, you will have to stand and fight the creatures as they emerge from the cave. <link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first blow scatters the bones of the skeleton all over the chamber. It seems that it was nothing more than the harmless remains of an old tomb guard. A closer examination of the sword reveals that the blackness is nothing more than pitted iron. You lower your weapon and slowly climb the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Baknar are known to sleep for up to three days after a feast. By the number of freshly stripped bones littering the chamber, this Baknar is likely to be asleep for many hours. You slip past the snoring creature and leave the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Key is coated with a corrosive digestive acid that burns through your mittens and attacks your fingers. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You drop the Key and plunge your hand into the snow to ease the pain. If you still wish to keep the key, you can wipe it in the snow before placing it in your pocket, but remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item. You must now search for a way of opening the fortress door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cover your nose with your sleeve and turn away from the carcass. Irian has regained consciousness, and is quick to begin scooping out some Baknar oil for himself.</p>
- <p>The light is fading fast and you decide to pitch camp here for the night. After a meal has been prepared and eaten, you volunteer to sit watch, in case the Baknar should decide to return. Spending a sleepless night huddled against the cold night winds seems infinitely preferable to sharing a tent with your guides stinking of Baknar oil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian was armed with a Spear. You may take this Weapon if you wish. You search the body and discover a curious disc of blue stone. If you wish to keep the Blue Stone Disc, put it in your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">At the top of the stairs, if you wish to go left (north), <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to go right (south), <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is closing fast; there is very little space left through which to escape.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, you may add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If your total is now 5<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If your total is now 8<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few hundred yards, you find yourself in a huge cavern that spreads out in all directions as far as the eye can see. You have entered the caverns of Kalte and are now looking at an uncharted world that few Sommlending have ever seen. This massive underground labyrinth was constructed by the Ancients many ages before the Sommlending set foot in Magnamund. Its wide avenues, temples and arenas once echoed to the sounds of a race of creatures for whom the ice was a natural home. M<ch.apos/>lare bowls still hang from the ceiling bathing the caverns in their eternal light.</p>
- <p>You trek steadily northwards for nearly six hours, until you arrive at the bank of a fast-flowing melt-water river. On the opposite bank, you see a tunnel leading off into the distance. You can find no apparent way of crossing the deep water, except by using the ice-floes bobbing up and down on the surface. By jumping from one floe to the next, you could get to the opposite bank, but it will not be easy. You will have to jump at least three of the icy slabs to reach the other side.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, you may add 2 to the number you have picked. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is less than 8, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If your total score is now <ch.minus/>2<ch.endash/>+3, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If your total score is now 4<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the door slides back, you are horrified to see the blank pupil-less eyes of the Ice Barbarian staring directly at your face. A low, unnatural cry comes from his open mouth, and in an instant the Doomwolves are awake and snarling.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small24.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small24.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to escape, you must turn and run back down the stairs. <link-text>Turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lance has grazed your shoulder blade and knocked you to the ground. As you scramble to your feet, you see that the Ice Barbarian scout has stopped and removed his skis. He advances towards you with an evil-looking bone sword in his hand. You prepare for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ice Barbarian screams a low, unnatural cry. You have been spotted and you know you must silence him quickly before he alerts the whole of Ikaya to your presence. You turn to fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>That night, a gale sweeps across the open ice shelf and buries your tent in snow. During your sleep, the canvas is forced in upon the four of you and your sleeping furs become soaking wet. You awake at dawn with terrible cramp in both of your legs. It takes nearly an hour of massaging your frozen limbs before you can stand properly. You are beginning to wish that you had never set foot in this icy hell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to remove most of the hardened wax that covers the stopper, and ease the reluctant seal from the fragile glass stem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship or if you have reached the Kai rank of Aspirant (you are skilled in six Kai Disciplines) or above, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you do not possess this Kai Discipline, or if you have not yet reached the required Kai rank, you are suspicious of the dank mouldy smell of this liquid. You quickly put the Vial down. Now <link-text>return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone door moves slowly to one side. It reveals a narrow archway that is full of billowing and swirling mist, hiding whatever it is that lurks beyond. You notice a severe drop in temperature.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense and if you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian (you are skilled in seven Kai Disciplines), <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense but have not yet reached the rank of Guardian, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you do not have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, you prepare yourself to fight and pass through the misty arch. <link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you awake, you sense that something has changed. It takes nearly a minute to realize that the incessant howling of the night winds has ceased. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s a beautiful morning,</quote> says Irian cheerfully, his head appearing through the tent flap. You quickly climb out of your sleeping furs and stare out over the icy landscape. The Kalte air is fresh and clear. You see a strong mirage in the distance that seems to throw the land up much higher than it could possibly be.</p>
- <p><quote>We should make it to <quote>The Rock</quote> by nightfall,</quote> says Fenor, as he busily pulls a reluctant Kanu-dog into its harness. <quote>Best to make camp there tonight. The shelter is good; this far from the sea, a blizzard can whip across the shelf from nowhere in a few minutes. I<ch.apos/>ve known trappers to be blown for miles if they<ch.apos/>re careless or unlucky enough to be caught out on the shelf with no cover.</quote></p>
- <p>That day, the Kanu-dogs pull strong and true, for the going is smooth across the ice shelf. By nightfall, you have reached <quote>The Rock</quote>, a splinter of granite that has thrust through the ice shelf. Its curious shape reminds you of the King<ch.apos/>s citadel in Holmgard. You make camp to the leeward side of <quote>The Rock</quote>, to avoid the worst of the night winds.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The massive door slides open to reveal a long stone causeway, spanning a vast chamber that is bathed in the orange glow of fiery furnaces. A gust of hot, putrid air wafts over you and a deafening noise assails your ears. Fifty feet below the causeway, great stone vats hang suspended over roaring flames. Each vat is full of bubbling slime writhing and contorting as if it were alive.</p>
- <p>Fear and revulsion grip your stomach as you begin to grasp the sinister secret of this hall. Row upon row of stone plinths bear the mutilated corpses of Ice Barbarians, their skins peeled back and pinned open. Each corpse is attended by hideous creatures, a ghoulish legion of mutants crawling and slithering across the blood-drenched floor. This hall is a place of great evil, a nightmarish laboratory, a temple of the Black Art of Necromancy constructed by Vonotar the Traitor.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>This hall is a place of great evil, a nightmare
-laboratory</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Across the causeway, another doorway suddenly slides back to reveal four Ice Barbarian mutants. As they shuffle towards you, a mixture of horror and pity overwhelms your senses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to fight these creatures, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to flee from this terrible place, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures in this cavern are Kalkoth, savage and cruel predators of Kalte. Their favourite prey is Baknar, and it is the remains of one of those animals spattered across the floor of the cavern. There is another passage leading off towards the north, but it is on the far side of the cavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to creep past the sleeping Kalkoth, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to retrace your steps and take the other tunnel heading north, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to attack these sleeping creatures, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Destroying the door in this way is an extremely strenuous task. You will need to eat two Meals after the six hours of labour or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to fatigue.</p>
- <p>When you finally cut hole large enough through which to escape, you discover that you have attracted some unwanted attention.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On seeing you enter, the two old men jump to their feet and flee from the chamber along a smaller passageway. Their screams of panic echo loudly throughout the caverns.</p>
- <p>You are very hungry and quickly consume the cooked animal, pausing only to spit out the bones. You then notice that the fire is burning in a strange, half-spherical metal bowl. The other half of the sphere lies on the icy floor nearby and you find that both halves fit together perfectly. When you open it, you discover that the fire still burns inside. If you wish to keep this Firesphere, place it inside your jacket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">Return to the tunnel by <link-text>turning to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, the guards suspect that something is amiss and challenge you in their strange language. You have no alternative but to attack them before they can raise the alarm. However, the fumes of the smoking herbs are affecting the Ice Barbarians and this will aid you in the following combat. You need fight only 3 rounds of combat before the guards collapse unconscious to the floor.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarians</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you are still alive after the combat, you can signal to Loi-Kymar to approach the hall.</p>
- <p>To your delight you discover that one of the magnificent jewelled doors is unlocked. You gently push it ajar and enter Vonotar<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been walking along the passage for less than five minutes when it veers sharply northwards. Just ahead, to your left you can see a large stone door; the lever is up and the door is closed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to pull the lever and open the door, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to continue northwards, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You discover a curious Triangle of Blue Stone attached to a chain. It is held tightly in the skeletal hand of one of the corpses, and you are forced to smash the finger-bones in order to examine the necklace more closely. If you wish to keep this Blue Stone Triangle, slip it over your head and wear it inside your jacket. Mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small25.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small25.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect315">You may leave the chamber by a tunnel in the far wall, by <link-text>turning to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">Or you can retrace your route and take the other tunnel by <link-text>turning to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unless you have used the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, bolts of blue energy leap from the black slaves and catch you squarely in the chest. You are thrown backwards by the force of the charge, and left lying on the cold temple floor. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you used the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, the raw energy arcs harmlessly between the two staves and you are not injured.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to try to activate the buttons again, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to leave the temple, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days and nights, you trek northwards across the bleak and inhospitable glacier. Irian and Fenor have both suffered from severe snow-blindness, and the relentless north wind seems to sap everyone<ch.apos/>s strength. On the morning of the fourth day on the glacier, the wind finally drops. A bearing can now be taken to find out your exact position. To everyone<ch.apos/>s dismay Irian announces that you have veered a long way off course.</p>
- <p>You turn to face the ancient grey peaks of a mountain range, looming up out of the northern snow. It is a bleak and forbidding sight. <quote>The Myjaviks,</quote> says Dyce, disappointment written all over his bearded face. <quote>We<ch.apos/>ve come too far east.</quote></p>
- <p>The Myjavik Mountains now lie between you and Ikaya. To cross them will mean having to leave the sledges and Kanu-dogs, packing your equipment on your backs and continuing on foot. There is an alternative, but it could lose you two precious days: you can retrace your route to the glacier and resume the march from there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you wish to abandon the dogs and sledges, and cross the Myjavik Mountains on foot, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you decide to lose two days and trace your way back to the Viad Glacier, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>re on the same level as the Hall of the Brumalmarc,</quote> whispers Loi-Kymar, peering through a crack in the kitchen door. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s at the end of this corridor.</quote></p>
- <p>Two Ice Barbarians stand beside the jewel-encrusted doors that lead to the great hall. They are covered from head to toe in strange bone armour, and armed with crystal swords. The old wizard steps back from the door and says: <quote>We must deal with them silently and swiftly.</quote> He takes three jars from his pockets and mutters a strange incantation as he mixes the contents together in a stone bowl. There is a pitcher of water on the table. He splashes a few drops <!--ERRTAG-RE-320442-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-320442--> the herbs, and wisps of blue smoke arise. <quote>This will silence the guards if we can move it close enough to them.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you do not possess any of the above Kai Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have descended over two hundred feet before you finally reach the bottom of the crevasse. It is completely dark except for a pinpoint of light in the far distance. You head towards the light, but progress is slow and painful. Large chunks of broken rock and ice litter the crevasse floor, and in the darkness you are constantly walking into, or falling over them.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, you may add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>1, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If your total is now 2<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If your total is now 8<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect303-1-foot" idref="sect303-1">
- <p>Remember to erase the Silver Key you just used from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You insert the Key and turn it clockwise. A click confirms that it works. Slowly the shank of the Key slips from your grip and disappears into the lock<footref id="sect303-1" idref="sect303-1-foot"/> and the great stone lid opens to reveal a magnificent Silver Helmet.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small26.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small26.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to put this splendid Helmet on your head, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to leave the Helmet where it is, you can explore the stairs by <link-text>turning to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mighty sword illuminates the passage with its golden glow. The Helghast shrieks a hideous cry and retreats, its eyes glowing a fiery red with hatred and fear. It recognizes the power you wield, a force that spells death and eternal destruction to its kind. In blind panic, it attacks you with a powerful Mindblast. Unless you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, you must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round of combat you fight with this creature. It is immune to Mindblast. However, because the creature is one of the undead, remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that it loses due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heavy beast rolls off the sledge and lies motionless on the ice. Fenor has managed to light a torch and is thrusting the flaming brand at the other two Baknar. They are terrified by the fire and quickly turn and flee. You cheer as they disappear and turn to congratulate your brave guides, but are stunned to see that they have already started to skin the dead Baknar. You watch with disgust as Dyce opens the beast from throat to belly with his sharp hunting knife. He quickly pulls back the white fur and scoops out handfuls of thick oil from under the skin. The smell of this oil is horrible, so horrible in fact that even the Kanu-dogs bury their noses into the snow to avoid it. You cannot believe your eyes when the two guides start to rub this vile oil all over their faces and inside their clothes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>They have already started to skin the dead Baknar</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="719" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="719" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Baknar oil,</quote> shouts Fenor enthusiastically. <quote>Nothing like it for keeping warm and dry.</quote> He pulls his hand from the dead beast and offers you a fistful of the putrid jelly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to accept his offer, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If the thought of smelling like a vat of rancid cheese does not appeal to you, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pass through the archway, you notice a lever set into the dark stone wall. You pull it and a door slides across, sealing the temple behind you. The temperature is warmer and you can hear a low rumbling sound somewhere in the distance. Ahead, you can see a light at the end of a dark passageway. You discover that it is shining out of an oblong portal, close to the floor, through which you can see a corridor ten feet below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to squeeze through the portal and drop into the corridor, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you decide to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Preparing yourself for combat, you signal to the others to attack. The Ice Barbarians soon realize the danger and flee towards the west. To your dismay, you see that they are equipped with skis and can make a speedy escape. They have small poles attached to their fur-clad backs from which strange blue flags flutter. <quote>Convoy scouts,</quote> says Irian, shielding his eyes from the glare of the snow. <quote>Their blue <quote>Banach</quote><ch.emdash/>their back flags<ch.emdash/>mean they<ch.apos/>re scouts from a sledge pack. They<ch.apos/>re probably on their way back from the trading post at Ljuk; their convoy can<ch.apos/>t be more than a few miles away<ch.emdash/>five at the most.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small27.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small27.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you wish to press on to Ikaya and try to outrun the Ice Barbarians before they return with reinforcements, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you wish to follow the scouts westwards and find out more about their convoy, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect308-1-foot" idref="sect308-1">
- <p>Mark this Special Item as a Silver Helm. If you are already wearing another Helmet, you must discard it if you wish to keep this new find. The text is somewhat ambiguous on this matter, but it is likely that the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus is magical in nature, and not the result of any physically protective value it might have (which may very well be nil).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite its size, the Helmet feels light and comfortable. Mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.<footref id="sect308-1" idref="sect308-1-foot"/> If worn during combat, it will increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points. The lid of the chest slowly closes and you leave the chamber, elated by your magnificent discovery. You continue along the corridor and explore the staircase ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make a quick search of the bodies and discover that one of them has a triangle of blue stone hanging by a chain around his neck. If you wish to keep this Item, put the chain round your neck and mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>You are very hungry and you quickly consume the cooked animal, pausing only to spit out its bones. Then you notice that the fire is burning in a strange, half-spherical metal bowl. The other half of the sphere lies on the icy floor nearby. You find that both halves fit together perfectly. When you open them, you discover that the fire still burns inside.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Firesphere, put it inside your jacket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>You finish the last scraps of food, and return to the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132"><link-text>Turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You break open the Firesphere and an intense howl fills your ears. The cyclone halts. It will not advance towards you whilst you hold this sphere of guttering flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to leave the temple, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to search the altar and alcove, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the Potion to be distilled Alether, a potion of strength. Your Kai masters used Alether to increase their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> in battle, and there is enough concentrated Alether in this Vial to increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 for the duration of one combat. For it to be effective you must swallow it immediately before you fight. If you wish to keep this Vial, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>return to 10</link-text> and choose your next course of action.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You desperately claw at your foot, but the sledge is already beginning to fall into the crevasse. As you tumble hundreds of feet into the void, the last sound that you hear are the horrified cries of your guides fading above you.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mutants lie dead at your feet. You are about to step over them and attack their controller, when more of the unfortunate wretches appear at his side. You are greatly outnumbered and you must escape now, or you will surely perish in this evil hall. You sprint back to the door and run the length of the main corridor, as fast as your shaking legs will carry you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have explored only a hundred yards of the rock-face when you discover a large fissure<ch.emdash/>the entrance to a cave. In your eagerness to escape from the bitter wind you quickly enter and, in the darkness, fail to notice the crevasse that divides this cave in two. In a tumble of ice and stone, you fall head first into the dark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a large hall where the pressure of the moving ice has opened a large crevasse in the floor. The crevasse is over sixty feet wide, and there is no apparent way of crossing it. As you stare into the chasm, you notice that rough steps have been cut into the side, descending into the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to descend these steps, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you decide to retrace your route to the other tunnel entrance, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is an aura of power encircling the Gold Bracelet that makes you feel uneasy. The Ice Barbarians rely on tooth and bone for their weapons because there are no mines in Kalte. Not only gold but all metals are considered rare and precious; you have never heard of the Ice Barbarians trading their furs for any metal other than steel. Jewellery is of no interest to these hard and cruel hunters. You suspect that this Bracelet was worn by force and not by choice. If you wish to take and wear the Gold Bracelet, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you take the Bracelet, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you decide to leave it, make your way along the corridor towards the distant junction by <link-text>turning to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone portal creaks open but grinds to an abrupt halt halfway across. The gap is a little over two feet wide and you are only just able to squeeze through to the chamber beyond. The air in the room is cold and stale; this chamber has obviously lain undisturbed for many thousands of years. Stone shelves are stacked high with bottles and flasks. On a table in the centre lies a beautiful pack full of different coloured potions.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to examine these ancient potions, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to leave the chamber and continue northwards, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can sense that the Baknar is desperate for food. Your Kai Discipline will be useless, for you will not be able to order it away from the camp now that it has detected the Kanu-dogs. However, you know that Baknar are fearless hunters, fearless except when it comes to one thing<ch.emdash/>fire. Grabbing a torch from a pile of equipment, you light it and race out of the tent. It is dark and snowing heavily, but a movement to your right betrays the Baknar as it lopes towards you. It is preparing to pounce when the sight of the guttering flames makes it shriek with terror. A second later, it has turned and disappeared into the night.</p>
- <p>The Kanu-dogs are safe, but to make sure that the Baknar does not return, you agree to take it in turns to sit watch with a torch and a weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take careful aim and throw the Gold Crowns along the corridor. Distracted by the sudden noise, the warrior draws his bone sword and investigates. Your plan has worked; he is busy searching for Gold Crowns on his hands and knees and he fails to see you creep past and ascend the stairs. Remember to adjust the number of Gold Crowns on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to hang on to the struggling child, and remove a bone dagger from his boot to prevent him stabbing you in the back.</p>
- <p>The Ice Barbarians have drawn themselves up into a circle around you, but they dare not attack while you are holding one of their children as a hostage. Holding the bone dagger to the child<ch.apos/>s throat, you slowly inch your way towards the sledge. You soon realize that you will never be able to outdistance them on a loaded sledge. You will have to think of something<ch.emdash/>and quickly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The Ice Barbarians circle around you but they dare not
-attack while you hold one of their children as hostage</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="636" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="636" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to cut the equipment loose, free the Ice Barbarian child, and escape on the unloaded sledge, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to cut loose the equipment but keep the boy with you as a hostage during your escape, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the twisting ice passage for many miles until you stumble upon a grotto. A small melt-water stream divides the cavern and another passage leads off towards the north. As you jump across the narrow stream, you notice a small Blue Triangle of Stone lying in the icy water attached to a neck chain. If you wish to keep the Blue Stone Triangle, put it around your neck and tuck it into your jacket. Mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>A brighter light emanates from the passage ahead, and you can see a large hall in the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you race across the slippery surface, the ice begins to crack. Glancing behind, you see the Kalkoth has stopped at the edge of the lake. It seems to be terrified of the dark shadow that you saw earlier under the ice; the shadow that has just reappeared less than twenty feet from where you are now. With panic rising in your throat, you turn and run, praying all the way for the ice and your luck to hold out.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If the number you have picked is 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb over a hundred stone steps before arriving at a narrow landing.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, Tracking or Hunting, add 3 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If your total is now 5<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the vile Akraa<ch.apos/>Neonor dies at your feet, you glimpse the hunchback descending from his platform and scurrying off towards a distant door. You turn to chase him but freeze when you see the body of Loi-Kymar lying motionless below. He is dead, killed in psychic combat with the traitor. With anger welling up inside, you raise your weapon and sprint after Vonotar, now intent upon his death.</p>
- <p>The door leads to a long corridor, at the end of which is a curtained arch. You tear the curtain aside and continue on your chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The next morning arrives bright and windless. The sun pierces the thin layer of cloud, bathing the east in a soft pink glow. This beautiful vision reminds you that your Kai masters once told you that the light of Kalte is unlike anywhere else in Magnamund. With tent and equipment packed, you leave the pass and venture out <!--ERRTAG-RE-343205-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343205--> the Hrod Basin; one hundred miles of open ice now lie between you and Storm Giant Pass.</p>
- <p>At first, the journey is easy. The Basin has been worn smooth by the wind and no crevasses lurk unseen beneath the hard, dense snow. But at dawn on the third day, events take a turn for the worse. You are awoken from a deep sleep by Dyce shaking your shoulder. He is frightened. <ch.apos/>What<ch.apos/>s wrong?<ch.apos/> you ask, still bleary-eyed and sleepy.</p>
- <p><quote>Ice Barbarians<ch.ellips/> on the horizon. Twenty, maybe more. Five wind sledges and a warrior escort. I think they<ch.apos/>ve seen us.</quote></p>
- <p>In an instant, you have all climbed out of your sleeping furs and begun to pack away the tent. Dyce is correct, they are Ice Barbarians and they are heading towards you from the west. <quote>If they catch us, we<ch.apos/>re as good as dead,</quote> says Fenor, as he ties the last of the equipment to the sledge.</p>
- <p>The Ice Barbarians of Kalte are a fierce and war-like race of nomads. For thousands of years they have travelled this icy wasteland, trapping furs and herding mammoths. Their only contact with the rest of Magnamund is through the trading post of Ljuk. In summer, when the coast around Ljuk is free from ice, they journey there to trade their furs for weapons and tools, as there is no iron or wood in Kalte. They hate all except their own kind, and kill anyone they find who dares to trespass in their icy domain. You soon hear their war-cries less than three miles distant, and for the first time since you landed, you pray for a blizzard to hide your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a period of intense concentration, the image of the lock gradually takes form in your mind. The lock is shielded by a spell, but your Kai skill and your determination prove the stronger power. A click confirms the success of your effort, but you are greatly fatigued and lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Then silently, and of its own accord, the great stone lid opens to reveal a magnificent Silver Helmet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to put this Helmet on, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you would rather leave it where it is, you can explore the stairs by <link-text>turning to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach nearer to Ikaya, the recent encounter with the Ice Barbarians plays on your mind. Will you be able to outrun them or are they planning an ambush at this very moment? Both Irian and Fenor look very anxious and little is said as you trek across the difficult terrain. But your worries distract your attention from more familiar danger. You are less than eight miles from the fortress when the snow gives way beneath you and you plunge into a hidden crevasse.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If the number you have picked is 9, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In spite of his frail physique, the man climbs with surprising speed and dexterity. You pull him through the portal and retrieve your Rope. <quote>The stairs,</quote> he says, pointing into the darkness. <quote>Our escape lies that way, but you had best take the lead; my eyes ail me. I have suffered the snow-blindness and my vision is just a blur.</quote></p>
- <p>You pack your Rope and lead the way along the passage. You are about to descend the stairs when a pair of skeletal hands close around your throat from behind. A hideous cry betrays the <quote>merchant<ch.apos/>s</quote> true identity. He is a Helghast, a deadly shape-changing servant of the Darklords, and he has tricked you into releasing him from his cell. He is intent on murdering you.</p>
- <p>You desperately gasp for air as the skeletal fingers tear and burn at your throat. You lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you are still alive, you can break free from his steely grip. You must now fight this creature to the death. Due to the surprise of the Helghast<ch.apos/>s attack and the injury it has inflicted on your throat, you are unable to swallow any potions prior to the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you do not possess it, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The noises that you hear are Kalkoth. There are three of these vicious creatures, inhabitants of the mountains of Kalte. They are predatory killers and their favourite prey is Baknar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you have smeared Baknar oil into your skin, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you have not applied Baknar oil to your skin, you can avoid the Kalkoth by retracing your route back to the entrance of the other tunnel, by <link-text>turning to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to attack the creatures, you can <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon arrive at the bottom of a spiral staircase; there seems to be no alternative but to climb it. After ascending over two hundred steps, you arrive at a long passage which ends at a balcony. Thirty feet below, you see Vonotar the Traitor standing in front of two Ice Barbarian warriors. He is placing a gold bracelet upon the wrist of one of them, and is unaware of your presence. There are no stairs from here to the chamber below, but there is a door at the end of the balcony.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small29.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small29.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you have a Rope, you can climb down and attempt to capture him by <link-text>turning to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you do not have a Rope, you can descend the spiral staircase by <link-text>turning to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you prefer, you can investigate the door at the end of the balcony by <link-text>turning to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following day, the weather becomes bitterly cold. Wind from the north brings a hail of ice that stings your face. Your lips soon split and bleed. By midday, you are engulfed in a blizzard that makes progress slow and tiring. The howling wind forces you to dismount from your sledge and push it. You feel utterly exhausted. Your hands and toes are numb with the cold; the sweat from your exertions freezes to your skin, lining your boots and mittens with a layer of ice.</p>
- <p>By the time you reach the glacier<ch.apos/>s edge, it is nearly nightfall. You are all so exhausted that you barely have the energy to pitch your tent and eat a Meal. Disaster has all but overtaken you. You have frostbite in your toes, fingers and nose, and unless you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, you lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the top of the stairs is a wide landing where a corridor runs north to south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense or Hunting, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to head north, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to go south, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reactions have saved you. The tip of the Ice Barbarian<ch.apos/>s lance tears your sleeve, but that is all. But, in an instant, the scout has turned and halted. He unfastens his skis with one swift, practised action, and draws a bone sword. You must prepare for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hidden panel opens near the right stave. Inside, you discover a beautiful Glowing Crystal. It is warm to the touch. If you wish to keep this Glowing Crystal, slip it into your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A hidden panel opens near the right stave and inside is a
-beautiful glowing crystal</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="663" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="663" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to activate the buttons again, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to leave the temple, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find that the icy rock-face offers many handholds, but you cannot find a secure grip with your fur mittens on; but if you remove your mittens in order to climb, you know that frostbite is inevitable.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to risk your life and your hands, you can continue to climb by <link-text>turning to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you decide to abandon your climb, you can descend to the hall below and search for another exit by <link-text>turning to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than twenty yards when you arrive at the foot of another staircase. You ascend to the top where you see a faint light in the distance, spreading along the floor of the dirt-encrusted passage. It is another portal. Through the opening, you can see an old man huddled in the corner of a cell twenty feet below. His hair is matted and the dirt that clings to his blue robes almost obscures the crescents and stars embroidered on them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you wish to call to the old man, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scout flashes past and stops less than twenty feet away. With a well-practised action, he removes his skis in an instant and draws a vicious-looking bone sword. You must prepare for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step over the bodies of the Ice Barbarians, you catch a glimpse of a grotesque creature staring at you from the corner of a passage to your left. Even though you see it for the briefest moment, it is long enough to send a shiver down your spine. It resembles an enormous man<ch.apos/>s head. But one that has sprouted feet and a long scaly tail. Although it wears a hooded cloak, there is no trace of a torso beneath it. As it scurries off, your heart pounds at the thought of what horrors may lie ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you wish to pursue the strange creature, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you wish to search the bodies of the dead Ice Barbarians, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within ten minutes, frostbite has eaten into your hands and feet. On this exposed rock-face the icy winds often exceed a speed of one hundred miles an hour. You last for thirty minutes before severe exposure robs you of all consciousness, and you plummet to your death three thousand feet below.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the bodies out of the kitchen and prop them behind the secret door. When you return, Loi-Kymar is busy examining the bottles of herbs that line the kitchen shelves. He pockets several jars and mixes the contents of two others in a small stone bowl. He offers you a handful of the dry leaves and urges you to eat them. <quote>They will restore your strength, Lone Wolf.</quote> You eat the sweet tasting herbs and feel a warm glow radiating throughout your body. Restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small30.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small30.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can sense the presence of a powerful life-force beyond the misty arch. As you concentrate, you suddenly recall a tale told to you when you were a small child, <quote>The Legend of the Vagadyn Gate</quote>. This was a tale of Ice Demons and how they once fought a war to be able to leave their world and come to Kalte. They were formless creatures, without shape and substance, and existed as pure energy in another dimension, beyond the confines of space and time. The Ice Demons discovered the Vagadyn gate, a sort of door between their world and Magnamund; they fought each other to enter this gate, unaware of the fate that awaited them. The Ancients had also discovered the gate. As the Ice Demons passed through the Vagadyn, their spirits were imprisoned in crystals by the cunning Ancients, who harnessed the power of the Ice Demons to build Ikaya. The M<ch.apos/>lare bowls that light the fortress each contain the spirits of lesser Ice Demons trapped within. You also remember that the tale warns against destroying the crystal prisons: if an Ice Demon is released it will seek to claim the body of its rescuer.</p>
- <p>Forewarned by your Kai skill, you enter the misty arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Discipline of Tracking reveals that the right tunnel heads east and the left tunnel heads north. You are now directly beneath Cloudmaker Mountain. Consult the <a idref="map">map of Kalte</a> before you decide which tunnel to enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you decide to take the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you decided to take the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your enemies can only attack you one at a time due to the narrow confines of the cell. You must fight them individually in the following order. The Ice Barbarian is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Ice Barbarian</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fortress door is completely smooth; it has no visible lock, hinge or keyhole. However, turning your attention to the granite wall you notice that one of the massive blocks is different to all the others. A small triangle has been cut into its surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you possess a Blue Stone Triangle, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and concentrate on blocking out the attacking Mindforce. You gradually control the pain, just enough to be able to tear the Bracelet from your wrist and hurl it to the floor. Cursing your misfortune, you stagger unsteadily towards the junction at the far end of this corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dyce makes it across to the opposite ledge safely, although Irian slips and has to be hauled out of the glacier by his waist rope. You and Fenor are still on this side of the crevasse. It is your turn to jump.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, you may add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If your total is now 4<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor is poorly lit and it would be easy for you, skilled as you are in the art of hunting, to approach the guards under cover of the shadows.</p>
- <p>Covering your nose from the fumes of the bowl, you edge your way along the wall towards the unsuspecting guards. Placing the bowl in the shadow of a pilaster, you stealthily return to the kitchen to await its effect. In less than a minute, the Ice Barbarians collapse to the floor and you can approach the Hall of the Brumalmarc undetected.</p>
- <p>To your delight you discover that one of the great jewelled doors is unlocked. Preparing yourself for attack, you gently push the door ajar and enter Vonotar<ch.apos/>s chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Discipline reveals to you that there are a network of caves less than a couple of hundred yards to the south. You abandon the sledge and search southwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure, have you discovered and kept a Glowing Crystal?</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you do not have it, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect350-1-foot" idref="sect350-1">
- <p>Later books will contradict what is said concerning the Daziarn. The portal Vonotar is thrown into is known as a Shadow Gate, which in this case, is what leads to the Daziarn Plane, a realm from which no one has ever returned.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the colours fade, you become aware of a sudden drop in temperature. You now stand upon the Ljuk ice shelf at a point less than half a mile from where the <cite>Cardonal</cite> lies at anchor. Loi-Kymar and Vonotar are close by, both shivering in the chill morning air. Within minutes you are sighted by the ship<ch.apos/>s lookout and a longboat is despatched. As a wriggling Vonotar is hoisted unceremoniously aboard the <cite>Cardonal</cite> and deposited in the brig the captain is the first to congratulate you on your skill and daring.</p>
- <p><quote>But how did you manage to return so quickly?</quote> he asks incredulously. <quote>We were not expecting you for another ten days.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Let us say,</quote> interrupts Loi-Kymar, <quote>that the wisdom of the Kai and the lore of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-365765-->Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild<!--/ERRTAG-RE-365765--> can surpass the limitations of even time itself.</quote></p>
- <p>A puzzled expression crosses the captain<ch.apos/>s face, but it is gradually replaced by a smile as he begins to understand the magician<ch.apos/>s curious answer.</p>
- <p>Your journey to <!--ERRTAG-RE-367210-->Anskaven<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367210--> is swift, but you are saddened by your memories of the brave guides that were left behind. Your arrival in the port is greeted by an anxious crowd. They fear that your early return is a sign of your mission<ch.apos/>s failure. When the news of Vonotar<ch.apos/>s capture becomes known, your warrior skills are required once again; this time in the defence of your enemy against the seething mob of outraged Sommlending that assault <!--ERRTAG-RE-367698-->Anskaven<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367698--> gaol. Safe passage is eventually secured to Toran, where trial awaits the traitor.</p>
- <p>Upon the dawn of the feast of Maesmarn, in the depths of the Guildhall of the Crystal Star, <!--ERRTAG-RE-366739-->Vonotar the Traitor<!--/ERRTAG-RE-366739--> is tried by his brotherhood and found guilty of his terrible crimes. He is led away in silence to the deepest chamber of the Guildhall, wherein lies the Daziarn: a portal of total darkness, the door of an eternal prison from which there can be no escape.<footref id="sect350-1" idref="sect350-1-foot"/></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Vonotar is led away to the deepest chamber of the Guildhall wherein lies the Daziarn: the door of an eternal prison from which there can be no escape</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="772" height="588" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="772" height="588" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You are the avenger of <!--ERRTAG-RE-367580-->his crimes, and it is you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367580--> who cast the wretched traitor into the limbo of Daziarn. Your mission is now completed. You have survived the caverns of Kalte and freed Sommerlund from the menace of Vonotar.</p>
- <p>But the heat of battle and the challenge of a new and desperate quest awaits you in Book Four of the Lone Wolf series entitled:</p>
- <p><bookref series="lw" book="04tcod"><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite></bookref></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Icy Wastes of Kalte</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="769" height="586" class="html" mime-type="image/jpeg" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.gif" width="1024" height="768" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="385" height="214" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <p>
- <line><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- <line><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- </p>
- <p>Kai Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Bonus Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/>: 6th Discipline if you've completed one Lone Wolf Adventure successfully</li>
- <li><ch.blankline/>: 7th Discipline if you've completed two Lone Wolf Adventures successfully</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Weapons:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Belt Pouch: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Meals: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Backpack Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Special Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character <!--ERRTAG-RE-373958-->fall to 0 or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-373958-->.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <table summary="This table provides the endurance losses sustained by the hero and enemy as a result of combat.">
- <caption>Combat Results with combined hero and enemy endurance losses</caption>
-
- <colgroup span="1" />
- <colgroup span="13" />
-
- <tfoot>
- <tr>
- <td colspan="14">Combat results are given enemy's endurance loss first followed by the hero's endurance loss. For example, "12/0" means that the enemy loses 12 endurance points while the hero loses 0 endurance points. A combat result of "k" means that the combatant is killed. For example, "0/k" means that the enemy loses 0 endurance points while the hero is killed.</td>
- </tr>
- </tfoot>
-
- <tbody>
- <tr>
- <th rowspan="2" scope="col">Random Number</th>
- <th colspan="13" scope="colgroup">Combat Ratio</th>
- </tr>
-
- <tr>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-11 or lower</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-10/ -9</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-8/ -7</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-6/ -5</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-4/ -3</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-2/ -1</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">0</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">1/ 2</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">3/ 4</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">5/ 6</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">7/ 8</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">9/ 10</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">11 or higher</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">1</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/6</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/4</td>
- <td>7/4</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">2</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">3</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">4</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">5</th>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">6</th>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/6</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/1</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- <td>16/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">7</th>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/1</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">8</th>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>8/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/1</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">9</th>
- <td>5/3</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">0</th>
- <td>6/0</td>
- <td>7/0</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- </tbody>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance class="text">
- <table>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>8</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>7</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>3</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></a>) Replaced <quote>hunch-backed</quote> with <quote>hunchbacked</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced all occurrences of the abbreviation <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>. Replaced <quote>Combat Skill, Endurance Points</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</quote>. Removed <quote> that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-10410-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-10410-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-12477-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to zero</quote> with <quote>fall to zero or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12477-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Discipline section</quote> with <quote>Kai Disciplines section</quote>. Capitalized all occurrences of <quote>discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote> (see the front of this book)</quote> and capitalized <quote>map</quote>. Replaced <quote>come in useful</quote> with <quote>be useful</quote>, <quote><a idref="discplnz">Kai Discipline</a> section</quote> with <quote><a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a> section</quote>, and <quote>ice-sledge along</quote> with <quote>ice-sledge, along</quote>. Replaced <quote><quote>Food</quote> on page 22</quote> with <quote><quote>How to Use Your Equipment</quote></quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-22585-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Anskavern</quote> with <quote>Anskaven</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-22585-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>appears on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="levels">Levels of Kai Training</a>) Replaced <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Kai Wisdom</a>) Removed <quote> at the front of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>ice-fortress</quote> with <quote>ice fortress</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>pack ice</quote> with <quote>pack-ice</quote>. Replaced the word <quote>becoming</quote> with <quote>become</quote> in the fourth paragraph. Removed <quote> at the front of the book</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-38180-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Anskavern</quote> with <quote>Anskaven</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38180-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-59623-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59623-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>rock face</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Moved the Tracking or Sixth Sense choice into the first position.<!--ERRTAG-RE-70145-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-70145-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>cretaure</quote> with <quote>creature</quote> and <quote>home-coming</quote> with <quote>homecoming</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect44">44</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-81998-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>mystery to me, I have</quote> with <quote>mystery to me. I have</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81998-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) Replaced <quote>ice-creature</quote> with <quote>ice creature</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Added a quotation mark at the end of the fourth paragraph due to technical limitations in our XML.<!--ERRTAG-RE-93667-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magician<ch.apos/>s Guild</quote> with <quote>Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93667-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-94585-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wretch is responsible</quote> with <quote>wretch, is responsible</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94585-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-97798-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97798-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-98307-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98307-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Made the last sentence its own paragraph to better fit our format for the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Made the north tunnel choice lead to <a idref="sect321">Section 321</a> instead of directly to <a idref="sect235">Section 235</a>. This section is reacted from <a idref="sect105">Section 105</a> where that is indeed the section for the north tunnel. This prevents penalizing the reader for using Sixth Sense by not being able to obtain the Blue Stone Triangle.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Moved the Camouflage choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>firesphere</quote> with <quote>Firesphere</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Split the word <quote>anytime</quote> into <quote>any time</quote> in the fourth paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>dimly-lit</quote> with <quote>dimly lit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Moved the Hunting choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-149229-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Vial of Laumspur</quote> with <quote>vial of Laumspur</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149229-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-149114-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149114-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Moved the Camouflage choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-168665-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168665-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-178113-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>as crevasse</quote> with <quote>as the crevasse</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178113-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Moved the Firesphere choice into the second position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Replaced <quote>rock face</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Moved the choice regarding leaving the tent into the last position.<!--ERRTAG-RE-191812-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>breed are</quote> with <quote>breed is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-191812-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-200050-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200050-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-200920-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200920-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-201948-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>My thanks Kai Lord</quote> with <quote>My thanks, Kai Lord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-201948-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>) Switched the order of the choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>) Replaced <quote>ice-wall</quote> with <quote>ice wall</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Replaced <quote>out distance</quote> with <quote>outdistance</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>) Added the choice <quote>If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <a idref="sect127">turn to 127</a>,</quote> to parallel the same situation in <a idref="sect326">Section 326</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-234861-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-234861-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) Added <quote>the</quote> before <quote>Kai Discipline</quote> in the first link.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-237434-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>-3 to 3</quote> with <quote>-3<ch.endash/>3</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-237434-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-246372-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246372-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>much-deserved</quote> with <quote>much deserved</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>pack ice</quote> with <quote>pack-ice</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>matts</quote> with <quote>mats</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-272490-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>visited the Graveyard of the Ancients</quote> with <quote>visited the Graveyard of the Ancients and survived</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272490-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Split the first paragraph into two paragraphs and moved the Sixth Sense choice between the two. Replaced <quote>posses</quote> with <quote>possess</quote> and <quote>Pick</quote> with <quote>Otherwise, pick</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Moved the choice regarding lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-292685-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>its tip</quote> with <quote>the rod<ch.apos/>s tip</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292685-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect273">273</a>) Replaced <quote>well-suited</quote> with <quote>well suited</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-293810-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>breed are</quote> with <quote>breed is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293810-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Moved the Hunting or Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced <quote>fast flowing</quote> with <quote>fast-flowing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>fingerbones</quote> with <quote>finger-bones</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-320442-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-320442-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Added the choice <quote>If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <a idref="sect127">turn to 127</a>,</quote> to parallel the same situation in <a idref="sect326">Section 326</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>something- </quote> with <quote>something<ch.emdash/></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>warlike</quote> with <quote>war-like</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-343205-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343205-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense or Hunting choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>dirt encrusted</quote> with <quote>dirt-encrusted</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Replaced <quote>vicious looking</quote> with <quote>vicious-looking</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Removed <quote> at the front of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> of the last paragraph with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote> and replaced both occurrences of <quote>Captain</quote> with <quote>captain</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-365765-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magician<ch.apos/>s Guild</quote> with <quote>Magicians<ch.apos/> Guild</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-365765-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-367580-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>his crimes and it is you</quote> with <quote>his crimes, and it is you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367580-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-366739-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Vonotar the traitor</quote> with <quote>Vonotar the Traitor</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-366739-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-367210-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Anskavern</quote> with <quote>Anskaven</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367210-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-367698-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Anskavern</quote> with <quote>Anskaven</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367698-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-373958-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to 0</quote> with <quote>fall to 0 or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-373958-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect5">Section 5</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect19">Section 19</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect31">Section 31</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect56">Section 56</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect78">Section 78</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect88">Section 88</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect103">Section 103</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect125">Section 125</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect145">Section 145</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect173">Section 173</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect216">Section 216</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect235">Section 235</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect252">Section 252</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect265">Section 265</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect292">Section 292</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect305">Section 305</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect320">Section 320</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect334">Section 334</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Icy Wastes of Kalte</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a></li>
- <li><a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect13">Section 13</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect26">Section 26</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect36">Section 36</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect45">Section 45</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect61">Section 61</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect79">Section 79</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect72">Section 72</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect83">Section 83</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect91">Section 91</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect102">Section 102</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect110">Section 110</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect117">Section 117</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect119">Section 119</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect133">Section 133</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect147">Section 147</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect184">Section 184</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect191">Section 191</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect201">Section 201</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect221">Section 221</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect225">Section 225</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect245">Section 245</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect272">Section 272</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect285">Section 285</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect298">Section 298</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect303">Section 303</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect307">Section 307</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect317">Section 317</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect330">Section 330</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect340">Section 340</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
- </section>
-</gamebook>
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-<!--
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-$Id$
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-Revision 1.9 2007/05/20 22:00:17 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
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-Revision 1.8 2007/05/01 19:07:12 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
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-Revision 1.7 2006/09/14 14:48:20 Wibbleboy
-o Made various errata/non errata changes.
-o Updated errata section to combine all changes for a given page in a single entry.
-
-Revision 1.6 2006/09/12 08:49:44 Wibbleboy
-o Added ammo usage footnotes
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.5 2006/09/06 09:01:34 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few formatting errors
-o Implemented series-wide consistency changes
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-Revision 1.4 2006/06/19 08:22:53 Wibbleboy
-Made errata changes for consistency with other books in series.
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-Revision 1.3 2005/12/07 12:44:23 Wibbleboy
-Applied misc formatting changes to match manual of style.
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-Revision 1.2 2005/12/05 14:10:23 Wibbleboy
-Major update: added front/backmatter, corrected numbered references, added illustrations.
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-Revision 1.1 2005/11/28 17:38:30 jonathan.blake
-Was committed under the incorrect name 03oz.xml. Committing under the new name 03toz.xml.
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-//// CVS Revision as 03oz.xml ////
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:16 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
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-//// RCS Revision Log ////
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-Revision 1.2 2002/10/21 22:29:55 jblake
-Added a comment containing what we have of the frontmatter.
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-Revision 1.1 2002/10/21 19:47:36 jblake
-Initial revision
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-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-<meta>
- <title>The Omega Zone</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.fw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.fw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>12</month><day>17</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, the Freeway Warrior, champion and protector of Dallas Colony One. The third stage of your life-or-death exodus to the California coast takes your colony of survivors across the wastelands of New Mexico and Arizona, a region still blighted by lethal radioactivity. Can you find the safe route through to the sanctuary of Tucson, or will you and your people perish in the desolation of The Omega Zone?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1988 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1989 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1989 Melvyn Grant.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Chris Baird of Citrus Heights, Ca.<br />and<br />Mike Malone of Katy, Tx.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="dtd" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
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- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Philip Baccus</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Iain Smith</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan (frontmatter)<br />Frank Prather (sections 1&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dtd">
- <meta>
- <title>Dateline to Disaster</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><strong>1990-1998</strong><br />Rise of global terrorism on an unprecedented scale. Political violence funded by organized crime syndicate called HAVOC<ch.emdash/>The Hijack, Assassination and Violent Opposition Consortium.</p>
- <p><strong>1998-2003</strong><br />The governments of many small and impoverished nations fall into the hands of HAVOC. International terrorists receive arms, training, and shelter in these 'Badlands'.</p>
- <p><strong>2003-2008</strong><br />Raids on oil and gas installations, assassinations, and the kidnapping of prominent world statesmen become commonplace as HAVOC attempt to terrorize the civilized world into submission. Despite public outrage and growing international tension, the major powers steadfastly refuse to give in to HAVOC's demands.</p>
- <p><strong>2008</strong><br />President of the United States and General Secretary of Supreme Soviet both assassinated at emergency summit meeting. US, USSR and major European nations create the World Defence League and declare war on HAVOC. The Badlands are invaded, key HAVOC bases destroyed, and thousands of HAVOC agents are captured.</p>
- <p><strong>2009</strong><br />HAVOC leaders imprisoned for life in 'Deep Pens'<ch.emdash/>maximum security gaols located deep underground<ch.emdash/>to prevent their escape or release by HAVOC agents still at large.</p>
- <p><strong>2010</strong><br />New leadership emerges to unify the scattered remnants of HAVOC and plan revenge.</p>
- <p><strong>2011</strong><br />A WDL train transporting seventeen 100-kiloton nuclear warheads, destined to be neutralized and dismantled, is attacked by HAVOC agents. The train is destroyed and its deadly cargo stolen.</p>
- <p><strong>2012 New Year's Day</strong><br />HAVOC hijack a WDL news satellite and broadcast a chilling ultimatum. They have planted the seventeen stolen warheads in major cities throughout the US, USSR and Europe. They call for the immediate release of all HAVOC agents held in Deep Pens, plus the payment of $2 trillion in gold bullion, or they will trigger the warheads one by one until their demands are met in full. A twenty-four hour deadline is set. WDL leaders declare emergency and request that the deadline be extended. HAVOC refuse.</p>
- <p><strong>2nd January</strong><br />First warhead detonated at Brie Nuclear Energy Plant, ten miles south of Paris, France. Blast and radioactive fallout claim millions of lives. HAVOC repeat their demand and extend deadline by twenty-four hours.</p>
- <p><strong>3rd January 'The Day'</strong><br />World Defence League agents discover location of HAVOC command headquarters on an island in the South Pacific Ocean. Immediately orders are given to infiltrate and destroy the HQ and its occupants. The assault is swift and decisive; the complex is quickly overrun and its inhabitants are killed. Yet, ironically, as the news of this victory is being relayed around the world, HAVOC enact their ultimate revenge. A transmitter hidden on the island, fitted with a time-delay mechanism, clicks on, sending its high-frequency radio signal to a communications satellite orbiting the earth. This signal is amplified and returned to earth where, simultaneously, it triggers the remaining nuclear warheads. The initial explosions set off a disastrous chain reaction that feeds on civil and military nuclear installations all across the northern hemisphere. Hundreds of millions of people are killed within days, and many more perish during the years that follow, falling victim to the lingering radioactivity and the severe climatic changes that affect the earth.</p>
- <p><strong>2012-2019</strong><br />Gale force winds sweep across the world, carrying enormous amounts of dust into the upper atmosphere and preventing much sunlight from reaching the earth's surface. Temperatures plummet, deterring survivors from remaining above ground. Communications are disrupted by gamma radiation, making all radio, cable and satellite contact impossible. Small colonies of survivors develop in total isolation from one another during these years of darkness.</p>
- <p><strong>2019-2020</strong><br />Gradually, the dust storms die down and the sun penetrates the atmosphere, thawing the earth's frozen surface. Radiation decays to tolerable levels, and survivors emerge to reclaim what little remains of the world they once knew.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dtd" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, a survivor, born in California on Thanksgiving Day in the year AD 2000. In 2012, whilst on winter vacation at your Uncle Jonas' and Aunt Betty-Ann's ranch in Texas, you were invited to visit a shale-oil mine near Austin; it was the first of its kind in Texas. As Chief of Construction, your uncle was proud to take you on a guided tour of the whole underground complex, which, for security reasons, was totally self-supporting. It was during this tour on 3 January 2012, that the holocaust began.</p>
- <p>You remember how the ground shuddered when the shock waves from the first distant explosions reached the mine, and how you thought it was the start of an earthquake, the like of which you had experienced many times at home in California. But, as the levels nearest the surface began to collapse and the central elevator shaft filled with rubble, you realized the awful truth. At first there was no way of telling the extent of the surface devastation. Below ground, the safety generators had automatically switched into operation when the main power supply failed, and the tremors had faded quickly, which encouraged your aunt and uncle to believe that the damage above was superficial. Uncle Jonas was confident that the military would mount a rescue operation and that you would be brought out within a few days, a week at the most. Aunt Betty-Ann, too, was optimistic. After all, there were emergency supplies<ch.emdash/>enough to feed 200 men for a whole month. Little did she know that the three of you would end up consuming all those supplies, or that the mine would become your home, your shelter and your prison for the next eight years of your lives.</p>
- <p>It was early September in the year 2019 when eventually you broke through to the surface. When you set eyes on the landscape surrounding the mine, it was like looking at the surface of another planet. Few structures had survived the blizzards and intense cold that had swept around the world in the years following 'The Day', and now, after the dust had settled and the sun had returned, the once-fertile plains of Austin resembled little more than a desert of parched and broken rock, littered with the artefacts of an absent civilization. During the first few days, when you began to explore this wilderness, it was easy to believe that you were the only survivors. But on the morning of the fifth day Uncle Jonas made chance radio contact with a family called Ewell, who were living near the ruins of McKinney, thirty miles north of Dallas. They told him that they had been in touch with a handful of other groups who had managed somehow to survive the holocaust. Most were isolated and unable to move due to lack of fuel, food, or water. They were urging those who could travel to join them in McKinney to start a new community there, and some were already on their way. When your uncle and aunt accepted their invitation, the Ewells were enthusiastic but they also warned you to be wary<ch.emdash/>not everyone who had survived wanted to establish a new community. The ruins of some large Texan cities, such as Dallas and Fort Worth, were controlled by gangs of criminals who fought with each other and terrorized anyone seeking to reestablish law and order. They urged you to avoid these gangs at all costs.</p>
- <p>It took more than a week to discover a vehicle that could transport you to McKinney. It was an old school bus, which had been parked in an underground lot and had survived the years of sub-zero blizzards. With fuel and spares salvaged from the mine, you managed to coax it back to life; then you set off on your journey north. When you arrived at the town, it was easy to find where the Ewells lived, as their ranch was the only place that was still standing. It looked more like an old frontier post than a ranch, with its fortified perimeter wall, lookout posts and stake-filled moat. Having been ambushed and shot at by the city gangs of Fort Worth during the final stages of your journey, you recognized the need for such defences.</p>
- <p>'Pop' Ewell, the seventy-year-old grandfather of the Ewell family, was the leader of this small colony of survivors, and it was he who had urged Uncle Jonas to join them when they had first made radio contact. The colony numbered less than a dozen at the time of your arrival, yet as the airwaves became clearer and new contacts were made, this number had soon more than doubled to twenty-five. It was decided that a name was needed to identify the settlement and 'Dallas Colony One' was adopted, 'DC1' for short. From that day on, everyone worked hard to make DC1 a secure haven for those seeking refuge from the hostile wastelands and marauding city gangs.</p>
- <p>'Cutter' Jacks was one such refugee. Before 'The Day' he had been chief mechanic at the International Grand Prix Circuit near Lake Dallas, and his incredible skill and knowledge of engines was soon to prove invaluable to the colony. He taught you how to drive, and from a pile of old wrecks that you helped him salvage from the circuit, he built you a powerful, customized car. You used it to patrol the highways north of the city, keeping a lookout for gangs of city punks who frequently mounted raids to steal or destroy DC1's supplies. Cutter also taught you to shoot, and it was your natural prowess with a gun and your skill behind the wheel that were to earn you the begrudging respect of your enemies, who took to calling you the 'Freeway Warrior'.</p>
-
- <p>Six months after you arrived at DC1, the colony was faced with a major crisis. A heat wave was causing a drought that threatened to destroy the food supply. Crops were failing and the colony's artesian well, its only source of uncontaminated water, was beginning to dry up. The drought was also provoking more attacks from the city punks, who were desperate for food and water. Their common need had united them and now they posed a very real threat to the security of DC1. It was the last day of May, 2020, when Pop Ewell made radio contact with another colony, who were based in the city of Big Spring, 300 miles west of McKinney. Their situation was completely the reverse of DC1'S: they had food and water in plentiful supply but they were desperately short of fuel. They told of their contact with survivors in Tucson, Arizona, who were also without fuel. The Tucson colony reported that the territories west of the Sierra Nevada mountains had been spared the worst effects of the radioactive blizzards that had devastated the rest of the country and, miraculously, much of southern California was still widely populated: it had survived the last eight years virtually intact. When you heard the news you could hardly believe your ears. Perhaps your family were still alive. After all that had happened, there was now a real hope that one day you might be reunited with them.</p>
- <p>A meeting was held to decide how best to deal with the crisis facing DC1. Everyone agreed that to stay at McKinney would lead to eventual death, either slowly from starvation or suddenly at the hands of the murderous city gangs. The only choice open to DC1 was to try to reach California; only there lay real hope for the future of the colony. The decision was relayed to the survivors at Big Spring and a deal was struck to rendezvous with them as soon as possible. DC1 would give them fuel in exchange for food and water, and together they would join up with the Tucson colony for the final stage of the journey to California.</p>
- <p>Careful preparations were made for the long trek, and three vehicles were chosen to make up the convoy: the school bus, your customized roadster, and a gasolene tanker laden with 5000 gallons of petroleum siphoned from underground storage tanks at the Ewell ranch. Supplies of food and water were adequate but the colony lacked sufficient firearms and ammunition with which to defend itself. On the day before the convoy was due to leave, one of the colonists was sent north to search the town of Sherman for weapons. He radioed back to say that he had found a cache of hunting rifles and ammunition, but that his truck had broken down and he was stranded in the town. He had also found a survivor<ch.emdash/>a beautiful teenage girl<ch.emdash/>and he requested that you go to Sherman to pick them up. As soon as you arrived you were ambushed by the scouts of a brutal gang of bikers known as the Detroit Lions and, in the ensuing gun battle, you killed Stinger<ch.emdash/>the scouts' leader.</p>
- <p>Later you learned that the girl<ch.emdash/>Kate Norton<ch.emdash/>was the sole survivor of a Kansas City colony, which had been attacked and wiped out by the Detroit Lions. The Lions' leader, who calls himself 'Mad Dog Michigan', had taken a liking to her and spared her life. Mad Dog was once a high-ranking HAVOC agent who had escaped from Pontiac Deep Pen near Detroit, and he and his gang, most of whom were also HAVOC escapees, were heading for the Fort Hood Military Reserve near Killeen, Texas, the largest armoury in the whole of the United States. There he hoped to find enough weapons to equip the other HAVOC clans who were now in control of cities all along the eastern seaboard. Kate had managed to steal a motorcycle and escape from their camp, but Mad Dog was determined to get her back. He sent his brother<ch.emdash/>Stinger<ch.emdash/>and a handful of his best scouts to track her down, and they had finally caught up with her at Sherman.</p>
-
- <p>When Mad Dog learned that you had killed his brother, he vowed to get even with you at any price. He abandoned his plans to loot Fort Hood and embarked instead on a relentless pursuit of your colony as it crossed the sun-scorched wastelands of Texas. The journey to Big Spring was fraught with great danger, and yet, in spite of the many perils you faced<ch.emdash/>perhaps because of them<ch.emdash/>you felt yourself falling in love with Kate. Moreover you sensed that she was becoming increasingly fond of you. Sadly, the convoy was only a few miles from Big Spring when disaster struck. The land surrounding the settlement was controlled by a gang of bikers, a renegade clan called the 'Mavericks' who had been the bane of the Big Spring colony for many months. As the convoy drew nearer to its destination, the Mavericks launched an attack, and, in the running battle that ensued, they captured and abducted Kate. The convoy entered the fortified gates of Big Spring to a rapturous welcome from the colonists of that settlement, but for you the mood of celebration was soured by the vivid memory of Kate's abduction. You vowed to rescue her, and from that moment on every waking minute of every day at Big Spring was spent thinking about little else.</p>
- <p>By chance it transpired that the leader of the Mavericks, a blond-haired murderer called Amex Gold, was a former HAVOC agent who had served under Mad Dog Michigan before 'The Day'. He offered to join forces with the Lions, and, as a gesture of his loyalty to his former commander, he returned Kate to him. Together the Lions and the Mavericks launched a hasty attack on Big Spring, yet, although they outnumbered the colony by more than three to one, they were unable to breach the settlement's fortified perimeter wall, and were repelled with heavy losses. On the day after the attack, Pop Ewell discovered the radio frequency that the clansmen were using and was able to eavesdrop on their communications. He learned that Mad Dog had ordered another HAVOC clan<ch.emdash/>the Saints<ch.emdash/>who were based in New Orleans, to come to reinforce his command; they were expected to arrive within the week. He also overheard Mad Dog arrange a meeting with Mekong Mike, the leader of the Angelinos, a gang who controlled the city of San Angelo. He wanted him as an ally and was prepared to offer guns and ammunition in return for his help in destroying the Big Spring colony. Two days later, Mad Dog Michigan set off for San Angelo at the head of a motorcycle pack 200 riders strong. Those few clansmen who remained with Amex Gold tried all manner of tricks to convince the colony that the Mavericks and the Lions still surrounded Big Spring in strength, but to no avail. The senior members of the newly enlarged colony convened a meeting at which it was decided that, with the clansmen now at their weakest, and with the appearance of the New Orleans gang expected at any time, a breakout had to be attempted without delay. There was only one way for the colony to reach Tucson overland and that was to follow the remains of Interstate Freeway 10 through the arid, mountainous territory of western Texas. Precisely half-way between Big Spring and Tucson is the city of El Paso. To reach this city in one piece became the convoy's goal, for it lay at the end of a long and tortuous stretch of mountain highway, undoubtedly one of the toughest you would have to face on your journey to California.</p>
- <p>Under cover of darkness, the convoy escaped from Big Spring and sped westwards, now your vow to rescue Kate could at last be attempted and, at the first opportunity, you told the colony of your plans. Reluctantly they let you leave the convoy and go to San Angelo, where you intended to infiltrate the meeting between the Lions and Angelinos in the hope of finding Kate there. Your skill and daring were rewarded: you were able to locate and rescue Kate from under the very noses of the clan leaders. During your escape from their city you killed Mekong Mike, the Angelinos' leader, and stole a map from Mad Dog Michigan. Later you discovered that this map contained vital details of a HAVOC operation to take over the whole of the United States.</p>
- <p>As you escaped westwards from San Angelo, you encountered three soldiers, survivors from a World Defence League outpost in southern Texas, who were also heading for El Paso where the remnants of their command group were stationed. You joined them and together you made a rendezvous with the convoy at the entrance to the only passable road through the Apache Mountains. A fierce battle was raging along this pass, between the Mavericks and a renegade clan of Mexicans, who had crossed the border in search of food and supplies. The convoy was forced to run the gauntlet of their gunfire before finally reaching its goal. Upon entering the city, you received a warm welcome from the WDL command group who were defending the military reserve of Fort Bliss. They celebrated your arrival for several days until the victorious mood was soured by the appearance of Mad Dog Michigan and an army of clansmen over 1,000 strong. He had persuaded the Mexicans to join the Lions, the Mavericks and the Saints, all of whom were now united to his cause. The situation was desperate. Faced by overwhelming odds the WDL command tried to negotiate with Mad Dog but he rejected their attempts with disdain. He sent a reply to the command leader, Captain Frankland, in which he reaffirmed his vow to avenge his brother's death. His aims were brutally simple: he promised that neither you, nor any of the colony, would ever leave El Paso alive. He set up headquarters in Ciudad Juarez, on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande, from which he directed his clan army to encircle and lay siege to the colony.</p>
-
- <p>For two weeks, he launched repeated attacks calculated to weaken your defences. The colony withstood the assaults, but this constant attrition began to erode your hopes of ever being able to break out of El Paso and reach Tucson intact. Then a radio message was intercepted that was to turn the desperate situation into a crisis. A clan convoy of trucks was leaving Zaragoza bound for Mad Dog's headquarters in Ciudad Juarez. On board were enough high explosives to blow Fort Bliss and everyone in it to sightless atoms. Something had to be done to prevent Mad Dog from using these explosives. Out of desperation was born a daring plan to save the lives of the colony and disrupt the enemy just long enough for you all to break out of El Paso.</p>
-
- <p>The plan is to destroy the explosives as soon as they reach Ciudad Juarez to prevent Mad Dog Michigan from using them against the colony. It is a dangerous and potentially suicidal mission, too difficult for one man alone, so Captain Frankland offers to lead the mission and calls for three volunteers to accompany him. WDL Sergeant Haskell and WDL Marine Knott accept the challenge, but no one else steps forward readily to fill the remaining place. The future of the colony hinges on the success of this mission, and with this thought paramount in your mind, you summon up the courage to volunteer as the fourth member of the team.</p>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="sskills" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before embarking on your adventure, you must first determine your personal characteristics and the weapons and provisions with which you are equipped. An <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> has been supplied on which to record and amend these details as the adventure unfolds.</p>
- <p>Your personal characteristics comprise two basic attributes: <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To discover your initial <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero. Add 10 to the number you have picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your Action Chart (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 5 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total of 15). When you fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat, your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be measured against that of your enemy, so a high score in this section is desirable.</p>
- <p>To discover your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level, repeat the process, but this time add 20 to the number you have picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 8 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a total <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score of 28). If you are wounded in combat, or injured at any other time during your adventure you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If, at any time, your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total falls to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. You can regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the course of the adventure, but your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level can never rise above your initial score.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="sskills">
- <meta>
- <title>Survival Skills</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ever since the day you returned to the surface, you have endeavoured to develop your skills and natural instincts fully in order to best defend yourself and your colony.</p>
- <p>Listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> are your five basic Survival Skills:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="driving">
- <meta><title>Driving</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ability to control powered vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles and trucks.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="shooting">
- <meta><title>Shooting</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your familiarity and experience in the use of missile weapons, such as pistols, machine pistols, shotguns and rifles.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="fldcraft">
- <meta><title>Field craft</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your knowledge and experience of all aspects of outdoor survival.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="stealth">
- <meta><title>Stealth</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your physical fitness, the speed of your reflexes and your dexterity.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="perceptn">
- <meta><title>Perception</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your intelligence, your ability to evaluate information, your education and your mental alertness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Your ability in each of these five individual skills is measured in skill points. You begin with 3 points per skill. Before starting the adventure, you may allocate an additional 4 skill points to your list of five Survival Skills. These 4 extra points can be used to improve one or more of your five skills. During your adventure, all five skills will be severely tested, therefore the higher the individual skill level, the better your chances of survival. You may allocate your 4 additional points entirely how you like.</p>
- <p>When you have decided where to allocate your 4 additional skill points, make a note of the totals in the Survival Skills section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(If this is your first Freeway Warrior adventure, your total number of skill points should be 19: five skills x 3 points each = 15, plus 4 additional skill points = 19 points.)</p>
- <p>If you complete successfully the mission set in Book 3 of the Freeway Warrior series, you may add an additional 4 points to your Survival Skills in Book 4. These additional points, together with any equipment and provisions that you possess at the end of Book 3, may then be used in the next Freeway Warrior adventure, which is called:</p>
- <p>California Countdown</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="sskills" />
- <link class="next" idref="weapons" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apart from your clothing, a number of useful items form your basic equipment. This comprises a Backpack, and a belt on which hangs your Ammo Pouch, Medi-kit, Water Canteen and Hunting Knife. In addition to these items, you possess a <a idref="map">Map of New Mexico/Arizona</a>, which you carry tucked inside your leather jacket.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="backpack">
- <meta><title>Backpack</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Up to ten separate items may be stored and carried in your Backpack at any time. However, if more than three items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 1 point. If more than six items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 2 points; and if you carry a full Backpack (containing ten items) your Stealth level will be reduced by 3 points.</p>
- <p>In order to equip yourself for the task ahead, you may choose up to four items from the following list:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">SOLAR TORCH</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE (High Explosive) GRENADE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">BINOCULARS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">COMPASS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">CB RADIO</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">ROPE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">THREE MEALS</typ> (each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">FLEXIBLE SAW</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">BOX OF MATCHES</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the items you have chosen on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have picked four items, adjust your current Stealth level accordingly.</p>
- <p>Opportunities may arise during your adventure for you to pick up useful items. These items will appear in the text in bold print and, unless you are instructed otherwise, they can be stored and carried in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>You will need to eat regularly. If you do not possess any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="ammpouch">
- <meta><title>Ammo Pouch</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Your Ammo Pouch is where you store any spare ammunition for firearms. It can hold a maximum of the following:</p>
- <p>
- 40 rounds of 9mm calibre Pistol/Machine Pistol ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 20 rounds of 7.62mm calibre Rifle ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 10 rounds of 12-gauge calibre Shotgun ammunition
- </p>
- <p>When carrying mixed calibres of ammunition, use the equation below to check how much space you have left in your Ammo Pouch:</p>
- <p>4 x 9mm rounds = 2 x 7.62 rounds = 1 x 12 gauge round</p>
- <p>Additional ammunition can be carried in your Backpack. Ammunition occupies one space for each quantity that is equal to (or less than) the maximum that can be carried in one Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="medikit">
- <meta><title>Medi-kit</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>A well-stocked Medi-kit can make all the difference to your chances of survival should you suffer injury in the field or as a result of combat. It contains useful first aid supplies, such as dressings, antiseptics, antibiotics, water purification tablets, sulfonamides, pain killers, potassium iodide tablets (to delay absorption of radioactivity) and sutures.</p>
- <p>For convenience, these medical supplies are grouped into units. To find how many units you have in your Medi-kit, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals 10) and add 2. Your total score equals the number of units with which you begin your adventure. To keep a record of them, circle the appropriate number of unit symbols in the Medi-kit section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The maximum number of units you can carry in your Medi-kit is twelve.</p>
- <p>You may use your Medi-kit units to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; each unit used in this way restores 3 points. Units cannot be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in lieu of a Meal or Water when instructed to eat or drink.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="canteen">
- <meta><title>Water Canteen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Water is essential to life, and your life will depend on having a sufficient, uncontaminated supply. You will need to drink regularly during your adventure. One drink is equivalent to half a pint and your canteen holds exactly two pints of water: enough for one day's needs. When instructed to drink, be sure to tick off one box in the Water section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you do not have any Water when instructed to drink, you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="weapons">
- <meta>
- <title>Weapons</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="close">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>These weapons aid you in hand-to-hand fighting. You begin your adventure armed with a Hunting Knife which, when used in close combat, adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Note this Hunting Knife in the Close Combat Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you find a close combat weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it. Close combat weapons appear in the text with a close combat skill number; for example, Machete (3). This number indicates how many points this weapon will add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in a hand-to-hand fight.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of close combat weapons you may carry is <em>two</em>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="missile">
- <meta><title>Missile Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>There are four types of missile weapon:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>PISTOL</li>
- <li>MACHINE PISTOL</li>
- <li>SHOTGUN</li>
- <li>RIFLE</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Unless you are carrying over weapons from a previous Freeway Warrior book, you begin your adventure armed with only one of these weapons. Make your choice and then record the weapon you have chosen, together with its calibre and rate of fire details, in the Missile Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>In order to be able to use a missile weapon, you must have sufficient ammunition of the correct calibre. The following list shows the calibre of each weapon, the amount that is used every time the weapon is fired, and the number of rounds that you possess at the start of your adventure:</p>
-
- <table>
- <tr>
- <th></th>
- <th>Calibre</th>
- <th>Rate of Fire</th>
- <th>Initial No. of Rounds</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>PISTOL</td>
- <td>9mm</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>8</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>MACHINE PISTOL</td>
- <td>9mm</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>30</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>SHOTGUN</td>
- <td>12-gauge</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>RIFLE</td>
- <td>7.62mm</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
-
- <p>The initial number of rounds should be noted in the Ammo Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Missile weapons cannot be used if you run out of ammunition or possess rounds of the wrong calibre. However, the opportunity may arise for you to replenish your supply of ammunition and/or discover a weapon of the correct calibre.</p>
- <p>You may carry a maximum of three missile weapons. However, for every missile weapon that you carry (excluding your initial choice), you must reduce your Stealth level by 1 point.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Close Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="weapons" />
- <link class="next" idref="numbered" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions when you will have to fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level will both be given in the text. Your aim in close combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero or below while losing as few of your own <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible.</p>
- <p>At the start of a close combat, enter both your own and your enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Close Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for close combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through the use of close combat weapons to your current <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example<br />Cal Phoenix (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 17) is attacked by a Renegade Clansman (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 18). He is not given the opportunity to evade close combat, but must stand and fight his adversary. Cal Phoenix is armed with a Hunting Knife, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total CLOSE COMBAT SKILL of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Renegade Clansman's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.plus/>1 (19 <ch.minus/> 18 = <ch.plus/>1). He notes this <ch.plus/>1 on his <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>After working out your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the number that you have picked (the random numbers appear down the side of the chart). You now have the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Cal Phoenix and his enemy in this round of close combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; CP represents points lost by Cal Phoenix.)</p>
- <p>Example<br />The Combat Ratio between Cal Phoenix and the Renegade Clansman has been established as <ch.plus/>1. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 4, then the result of the first round of close combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Cal Phoenix loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Renegade Clansman loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, start the next round of close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from stage 3.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This procedure continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Cal Phoenix are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead. If Cal Phoenix is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Cal Phoenix proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points possibly reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">Summary of the Close Combat Rules</a> appears on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade close combat. If you have already engaged in a round of close combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored; only Cal Phoenix may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but that is the risk of running away! You may evade combat only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your decision to join Captain Frankland's group provokes a mixed reaction among the original members of Dallas Colony One. They put on a brave face and applaud your courage, outwardly proud that one of their number will be part of his team, but they cannot mask their fear for you, not knowing what awaits you beyond the perimeter wall of the Fort Bliss stronghold.</p>
- <p>Using maps and equipment salvaged from the military reservation and adjoining airport, Captain Frankland and Sergeant Haskell formulate a plan of action. At midnight, the team will leave the stronghold and attempt to slip unseen through the surrounding enemy cordon. After that the El Paso city ruins should provide enough cover for you to avoid the clan patrols as you make you way south towards the Rio Grande, where only one bridge across the river still stands<ch.emdash/>the Stanton Street Toll Bridge. The approaches are known to be guarded but the bridge itself is rarely occupied. The plan is to cross the river by this bridge, using a service walkway that runs directly beneath its central span.</p>
- <p>On the Mexican side of the bridge lies Ciudad Juarez, the sprawling, derelict shanty town where Mad Dog Michigan (in deference to Santiago<ch.emdash/>the Mexican clan leader) has based his operations. The convoy of explosives is due to arrive there at two o'clock tomorrow morning. The team must locate and destroy the trucks and their deadly cargoes as quickly as possible, using contact mines. The resulting explosions are sure to cause panic among the clansmen surrounding Fort Bliss. They will also provide a clear signal to the colony, who will, by then, be ready to exploit the confusion and break through the cordon. Once clear, they are to follow Interstate 10, firstly north towards Las Cruces, then west towards your intended destination<ch.emdash/>the city of Tucson.</p>
- <p>For you, the real danger begins as soon as the mission is accomplished. Once the explosives have been destroyed, the team must hijack a clan vehicle and escape from Ciudad Juarez as best it can. If all goes to plan, you will rejoin the colony at the New Mexican town of Deming, 100 miles northwest of El Paso, at noon the following day. If the team fails to make this rendezvous the colony will continue regardless.</p>
- <p>The few hours before midnight pass quickly. The colony uses the cover of darkness to prepare their vehicles for the breakout. Kate will be driving your roadster, and you use this as an excuse to spend what little time there is left before the mission with her, supposedly briefing her on the quirks and idiosyncrasies of the car. Everyone is aware that she already knows everything there is to know about your car but no one is insensitive enough to make any comment.</p>
- <p>At five minutes to midnight, Captain Frankland calls you to join the team. 'You take good care of my car, y'hear,' you whisper, as reluctantly you free yourself from Kate's tender embrace.</p>
- <p>'Only if you promise to take good care of yourself,' she replies, her voice wavering as she tries to control the fear that is simultaneously tightening her throat and churning her stomach.</p>
- <p>'Don't worry, Kate. I've got a feeling that everything's gonna work out just fine. You'll see. Tomorrow we'll be together again in Deming.'</p>
- <p>I hope so, Cal,' she says, 'I dearly hope so.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave your Backpack and gun with Sergeant Haskell, select a close combat weapon, and then follow Captain Frankland towards the jeep. The two Mavericks are oblivious to your presence as you circle around stealthily and creep towards the rear of their vehicle. A heavy, belt-fed machine gun, mounted on a column behind the front seat, half-conceals your approach, and you are soon crouching behind the jeep itself.</p>
- <p>With bated breath you wait for Frankland's signal. Having satisfied himself that the surrounding area is clear, he nods his head and together you leap on the unsuspecting clansmen from behind.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If your total score is 21 or less, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If it is 22 or more, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the tailgate and land on the sloping rubble. The debris is loose and you nearly lose your footing, but you recover quickly when a scything burst of gunfire shatters the rocks near your feet. You scramble towards the front of the truck, a fearful hail of bullets chasing you every step of the way.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If your total is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If your total is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect4-1-foot" idref="sect4-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your target falls to the ground, but you cannot be sure if he has been hit or if he is diving for cover.<a id="sect4-1" idref="sect4-1-foot" class="footnote" /> You move away from the window in case he tries to return fire, and with nerves on edge, you wait a full minute before chancing another glance out of the window. The assassin is nowhere to be seen, and you fear that he may have gained access to the courthouse. With gun in hand, you peer into the passage outside, then through the banisters at the entrance and lobby below: all are empty.</p>
- <p>You decide to make your escape from the courthouse while you can. The passage leads to a staircase, at the bottom of which is a fire exit. Through a crack in the door, you see that the yard outside is empty, so you push open the locking bar and pass through. You have taken only a few steps from the door when the assassin rushes around the corner of the courthouse with his rifle in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Again the siren blares from above the east gate but this time it is an alarm signal. Knott responds by slamming his foot to the floor and steering the lumbering truck towards the west gate. Harsh voices curse, then gunshots ring out.</p>
- <p>'Get down!' shouts Captain Frankland, as the bullets rip through the thin canvas covering and ricochet off the rear of the driver's cab. Instantly you flatten yourself to the floor, which leaps and shudders against your cheek as the truck rams into the west gate. The rot-infested doors offer little resistance: they are wrenched from their hinges and sent spinning through the air to disintegrate on landing.</p>
- <p>More shots are fired but none seem to find their target. You risk a glance over the tailgate to see the race track receding into the distance. In the street outside the track, a handful of determined Angelino clansmen are kick-starting their motorcycles in readiness to pursue you. You know just how dangerous these bikers can be, so you raise your gun and rest its barrel on the tailgate, waiting for the clansmen to come within range.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'It could be the sniper,' whispers Knott, wide-eyed with fear. Immediately the two of you step off the trail and crouch behind the nearest tree. Without daring to breathe, you stare fixedly at the forest ahead, glimpsing movements among the foliage. Then you catch sight of a man's bearded face and Knott, his nerves stretched to breaking point, draws his pistol and looses off three rounds in quick succession.</p>
- <p>The bullets rip open the bark of a pine tree less than a foot from where the man is standing. Startled, he freezes with shock, then he takes to his heels and crashes noisily through the foliage in his desperation to get away.</p>
- <p>'Ha! That's seen him off,' says Knott.</p>
- <p>'Yeah,' you reply, but your voice is tinged with doubt. You are not convinced that a crack HAVOC assassin would have allowed himself to have been seen so easily, or have behaved in such a way when coming under fire. 'Let's make sure he doesn't come back,' you say, and beckon Knott to follow as you give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bright yellow bulldozer with its earth scoop lowered is trundling along the main street on a head-on collision course with the truck. The shock of this unexpected attack makes Knott panic. He slams his foot on the brake, bringing the truck to a grinding halt. There is a moment of dead silence when the engine stalls, then the peace is shattered as Captain Frankland screams at Knott to start the engine and get the truck out of the path of the oncoming bulldozer.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A bright yellow bulldozer, its earth scoop lowered, is on a collision course with the truck.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="636" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="636" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The impending collision has distracted your attention from the rear of the truck, but you are quick to react when Haskell yells for your help. Two Mexican clansmen are scrambling over the tailgate. Quickly they fall upon the sergeant, preventing you from opening fire for fear of hitting him. They fight like maniacs, and, amid a flurry of kicks and punches, your weapon is wrenched from your grasp and you are knocked to the floor.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Slammer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the frenzy of the attack, you are unable to use a close combat weapon until the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you win in the combat, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bullet whistles past your left ear, close enough for you to feel the draught. The proximity of the shot spurs you to greater effort and, with a sudden burst of speed, you sprint the remaining few yards across the plateau and along a trail into the trees beyond. Almost immediately the trail drops steeply, causing you to lose your footing and tumble head over heels. When eventually you come to a stop, you are covered from head to toe with scratches and other minor abrasions: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>From here your descent through the forest continues with comparative ease. Soon you reach the stream that you discovered during your ascent, and you stop here briefly to try to determine if you are still being pursued. The surrounding trees seem unnaturally quiet, and it is easy to imagine that an assassin lurks behind every trunk.</p>
- <p>With trepidation you continue, leaving the trail to follow the water as it flows west towards the Swissheim Mountains. You cover twelve miles without incident and by early evening you arrive at a small bridge where a road, running north to south, crosses the stream. You check your <a idref="map">map</a>, but the road is too minor to be listed. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to leave the stream and follow the road, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you choose to continue along the stream, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop to your knees and scurry for cover under a nearby computer terminal. You have barely stopped moving when there is a loud crash and the main door is sent flying clean off its hinges. In strides the clansman, his torch held chest-high as he plays it back and forth across the desks. You reach to your gun as his bloodhound comes snuffling into the room, but you dare not cock your weapon for fear of revealing your hiding place.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If the number you have picked is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8), <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If the number you have picked is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you break cover, you hear another shot and feel something hot and sharp graze the top of your head: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The awful suddenness and accuracy of the sniper's shot makes you think twice. You abandon your attempt to spot him and seek once more the safety of the truck's steel skin.</p>
- <p>Out of the corner of your eye you see the captain cock his machine pistol and get ready to open fire. 'OK, I'm gonna see if I can flush this Yankee out,' he says vehemently, clearly unimpressed by how near you came to death. 'When I start firin', you see if you can pinpoint where he is.'</p>
- <p>You nod in uneasy agreement and get ready to glance around the tailgate the instant the captain opens fire. 'Let's do it!' he says, as he rises above the cover of the truck and squeezes off a burst of automatic fire. The noise of his gun drowns out the sniper's shot, but within a second of his breaking cover, Frankland is hit. With the machine pistol still chattering in his hands, he falls backwards and crashes to the ground, the assassin's bullet lodged deep in his skull.</p>
- <p>The shock of Frankland's death, following so closely after Sergeant Haskell's and so nearly after your own, hits you like an icy shower. You cower behind the truck, shivering with fear and convinced that you will be next. For a terrible moment, the fear wells up and consumes you, and all you want to do is run as far away and as fast as you can. Despite Knott's pleas to stay where you are, you scramble to your feet and stumble blindly towards the woods. In your haste you trip and fall, grazing your hands and knees on the flint-sharp shale: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Inadvertently, your fall saves your life. Another shot passes over your head barely a second after you stumble, missing you by a hand's breadth. The imminent danger clears your mind and you race towards the trees with a determination to survive. Knott encourages you to increase your speed and you pray that you will reach cover before the sniper has a chance to slip another round into the breech of his rifle.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. [Note: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill level.]</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If your total score is 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If it is 16-19, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Knott comes to your aid, having silenced his adversary, and together you defeat this formidable clansman. You and Knott then search the two bodies, and the saddlebags of their motorcycle, and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ></li>
- <li>Pistol (containing four rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Shotgun (containing two rounds of 12-gauge ammunition)</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Hammer (2)</li>
- <li>Three rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li>Eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Enough food for three Meals</li>
- <li>Enough water for four Drinks</li>
- <li>Enough water purification tablets, bandages, pain killers, and antiseptics for four Medi-kit units.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these weapons, ammunition, Medi-kit units or Backpack Items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. You hide the bodies before entering the gas station to took for the spare ignition unit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Collision with the barrier has damaged Mad Dog's car: a section of the front fender is buckled against the wheel, slowing it considerably. In your deadly duel, his supercharged car no longer has the advantage of speed. However, even though it is damaged, it still possesses enough power to enable him to catch you.</p>
- <p>In the distance a bridge is fast approaching. It crosses a channelled drainageway, fed by the Pantona Wash. An Amcorp Landcruiser, one of the colony's vehicles, has broken down and been abandoned on its approach ramp. The bus blocks two lanes of the freeway, leaving just enough room for one vehicle to pass.</p>
- <p>The two of you speed towards this narrow gap, neck and neck, each determined to be the first to get across. Desperate to beat you, Mad Dog brings his speedster dangerously close. You are three seconds away from the gap when he rams your door.</p>
- <p>Add your Driving skill total to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If your total score is 21 or less, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If your total score is 22-28, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If your total score is 29 or more, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to the ground and let out a yelp of pain as you gash the palms of your hands and knees on the jagged rubble (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Marine Knott lands beside you as the beam of torchlight passes over your body. For a few seconds it hovers nearby, then it returns to bathe you both in its revealing glare.</p>
- <p>An angry shout is followed by two gunshots and the sound of dogs barking. The bullets slam into the ground near your head. 'Run for it!' you hiss. 'We've been seen.'</p>
- <p>Ignoring the stinging pain of your wounds, you rise to your feet and sprint towards the darkness. Knott disappears to your left just seconds before you reach the freeway arch. You continue to run and are about to emerge from beneath the elevated freeway when the sound of growling stops you dead in your tracks. Ahead two squat shadows move purposefully towards you. You raise your gun but hesitate to pull the trigger for fear of attracting more of the enemy. Your moment's hesitation is seen as a sign of weakness, and instantly the two dogs bound forwards and hurl themselves at your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pit Bull Terriers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and the ferocity of their attack, you cannot make use of a close combat weapon until the beginning of the second round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In an instant your exhilaration vanishes and a cold, numbing fear returns to chill your spine. You freeze, not daring to move a muscle in case you betray your hiding place. Suddenly you hear the sound of feet moving through the scrub, and you know that the sniper is approaching and that you must act quickly if you are to escape alive.</p>
- <p>Frantically you scramble to your feet and run headlong into the forest. You have covered less than twenty yards when you chance a glance over your shoulder to see someone following in your wake. You are moving too swiftly to be able to discern their features, yet you dare not slow your pace to satisfy your curiosity. It could prove to be a fatal mistake.</p>
- <p>Soon the timberland begins a steep descent towards the plateau. Although you have difficulty checking your speed, you manage to stop yourself by clinging to a trunk at the edge of the clearing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to dash across the plateau, towards the cover of the pines on the far side, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you choose to skirt around the plateau, under cover of its perimeter trees, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The force of the impact sends you both reeling to the ground. Desperately you scramble to your feet, shaking your head in an effort to clear your vision. You regain your footing before the clansman and immediately you seize the advantage and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Yucatan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your having the first strike, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points losses you sustain in the first round of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cursing your predicament, you gun the jeep along the mountain highway as fast as you dare. Captain Frankland and Sergeant Haskell are manning the heavy machine gun, ready to use it as soon as the clansmen appear, while Marine Knott is busy dressing a wound he has sustained to his shoulder. You can see by his expression that he is in pain. However, it is only a flesh wound and he has not lost the use of his arm.</p>
- <p>Dawn is breaking and you can see the highway continuing due south, deeper into the mountains, leading you away from all hope of an early rendezvous with the colony. The further you go, the poorer the road surface becomes until all your skill and concentration are required to avoid crashing.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving skill total and current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If your total score is 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If it is 14-18, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If it is 19 or more, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You roll away from the dead clansman and scramble to your feet in time to see his partner escaping towards the exit ramp. You must prevent him from raising the alarm, so you sprint after him as fast as your aching legs will allow. You catch up with him near the top of the ramp and dive forward, dragging him to his knees with a flying tackle. You ready yourself for a fight but such action proves unnecessary: with a loud crack, his head hits the concrete as he falls, and he is knocked unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The west side of the rockfall is far less steep and you have no difficulty descending to the road. Repeatedly you glance over your shoulder as you escape along the broken highway, cursing your pursuer and the lack of cover. You attempt to maintain a fast pace but the heat, the dust, and the fear, which is gnawing at your insides, all conspire to sap your strength. Four hundred yards from the mound, the best you can achieve is a lumbering shuffle.</p>
- <p>You are turning to glance over your shoulder once more when a shot rings out and an agonizing pain pierces your left temple. The pain fills your head and courses down your spine, bringing you crashing to the ground. Then it disappears, to be replaced by a numbness that clouds your vision and drains the last of your strength from your unfeeling limbs. An overwhelming desire to sleep assails your senses, and, although you fight to stay awake, it is a fight you have no hope of winning.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect19-1-foot" idref="sect19-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire blows open the front tyre and sends the motorcycle skidding away to your left, missing the pump by inches.<a id="sect19-1" idref="sect19-1-foot" class="footnote" /> With a screech of buckled metal it crashes down on its side, rolls over and over, then slams into the gas station wall. Cautiously you approach the tangled, smoking wreckage with your gun poised. You are still very wary of this maniacal rider even though the chances of his surviving such a terrible crash must be slim indeed.</p>
- <p>As you expected, the rider is dead. A close examination of his broken body reveals that he was already dead before his machine hit the ground. He was killed by a ricocheting bullet as he sped over the bridge, and his body, slumped over the handlebars, kept the machine balanced in an upright and fixed line.</p>
- <p>Thinking of how close you came to death makes you break out in a cold sweat. Uneasily you wipe your forehead with the back of your trembling hand as you turn and walk away from the dead clansman and his shattered bike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A fraction of a second before you fire your weapon, a spurt of yellow flame leaps from the muzzle of the clan commander's rifle. Almost simultaneously a terrific force hits you in the chest and sends you reeling backwards to crash against the cab. You feel no pain, for two of the seven armour-piercing rounds that have passed through your body pierced your heart. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Columbus.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scream a warning to Kate and together you duck your heads as Mad Dog opens fire with his machine pistol. Your swift action saves you both from decapitation. The bullets pass over the driving compartment and you escape unscathed.</p>
- <p>Knowing that your enemy has only one hand on the wheel of his speeding car, you nudge the side of his speedster, tempting him to retaliate. Then, when he rises to your challenge, you brake heavily and, because he is still holding his machine pistol, he fails to react in time to prevent his car from crossing in front of you and hitting the central barrier. Metal twists and sparks fly from his fender as he scrapes along the crash barrier at nearly 100 miles an hour. You put your foot down and overtake him on the left, powering your roadster away as he fights to extricate himself from the barrier's magnet-like grip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect22-1-foot" idref="sect22-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the clansman's position fixed in your mind, you spring up from behind the tailgate and raise your gun to fire. The truck is bumping along the highway, making it impossible to take accurate aim, but for an instant he fills your sights and immediately you pull the trigger.</p>
- <p>Your shooting proves deadly accurate: the bullet hits him in the forehead, killing him before he can transmit his radio message.<a id="sect22-1" idref="sect22-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Haskell looks at you and grins. He is clearly impressed by your marksmanship. He is about to congratulate you when the truck decelerates. When it stops, Captain Frankland leaves the cab and comes around to the back to check that you are both all right.</p>
- <p>'We're fine,' you reply; 'bruised, but otherwise just fine.'</p>
- <p>You help the captain climb over the tailgate. Then, as soon as he is aboard, Knott restarts the engine and you continue on your journey west along Highway 9.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are not prepared to risk your life by drinking contaminated water, so you check your Medi-kit to see if you have any water purification tablets.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If the number you have picked is equal to, or less than, the number of Medi-kit units you have in your possession, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If the number you have picked is greater than the number of Medi-kit units you possess, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With unerring accuracy your weapon spins through the air and hits the clansman in the chest, knocking him flat on his back. He groans, but before he can recover enough strength to raise the alarm, Sergeant Haskell pounds up the steps, his combat blade held before him ready to strike. One swift stab to the heart and the clansman is silenced before he has a chance to alert his confederates on the bridge.</p>
- <p>'Well done, Cal. And you, too, Haskell,' says Captain Frankland, as the team gathers at the entrance to the walkway and sets about disposing of the sentries. 'If that punk had raised the alarm, we'd have had the whole of Mad Dog's army down on us by now.'</p>
- <p>You retrieve your close combat weapon, and, after the clansmen have been consigned to the Rio Grande, you check your equipment and follow the others as they hurry away from the walkway area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansmen are training their spotlight directly into your eyes, effectively blinding you, and you are not able to steer the jeep out of their path until the last moment. The pick-up glances the rear and the sudden jolt makes you hit your head on the steering column: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Despite your injury, you regain control of the jeep quickly and bring it back on to the highway. Captain Frankland is standing behind you, manning the heavy machine gun, and, as the pick-up completes a spectacular 180-degree turn and comes racing back, he cocks the weapon and opens fire.</p>
- <p>The heavy-calibre rounds riddle the engine and tear the cab to shreds. The truck starts to skid, and then there is a tremendous bang as the fuel tank explodes. As you accelerate on to the freeway, you glance in the driving mirror to see a huge ball of billowing orange flame engulf the remains of the truck and its passengers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount, wheel the motorcycle to the edge of the gully, and then let it tumble down the side. You watch it roll to the bottom before approaching the rockfall and beginning to climb. The mound stands more than sixty feet high, and is as steep and as sheer as a granite mountain in places. You have been climbing less than a few minutes when you have difficulty maintaining your grip. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Field Craft skill total. If you possess a <typ class="item">Rope</typ> or a <typ class="item">Tow Chain</typ>, add 2 points to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire, but your aim is too high and your shot passes harmlessly over the head of the leading biker. His passenger replies by levelling his pistol, resting it on his shoulder, and squeezing off three rounds in rapid succession. The first slug clips your right shoulder and sends you reeling backwards<ch.emdash/>lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Immediately, the captain and Sergeant Haskell rush to your aid. Captain Frankland attends to your wound, (erase one Medi-kit unit from your Backpack), while the sergeant picks up your gun and returns fire at the pursuing bikers (erase from your Ammo Pouch the quantity of ammunition that is equal to one round of fire). Above the roar of the engines you hear the leading rider scream out in pain: Haskell has wounded him in the hand, severing a finger. He loses control, swerves violently to the left, somersaults, and then his machine bursts into flame.</p>
- <p>The incident scares the other riders sufficiently for them to pull back to a safe distance. They continue to tail the truck, but at least they are now out of range.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb to your feet and brush away the debris. As the smoke clears, you see that the grenade has torn a jagged hole in the log wall. It is large enough to climb through and, without hesitation, you scramble into the shelter through this soot-blackened gap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214"><link-text>Turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman is half-way down the steps when your warning shout echoes from the bridge. Instantly, Sergeant Haskell reacts by springing forward and pounding up the steps towards the Mexican clansman, his combat blade held before him ready to strike. The Mexican sees Haskell and freezes in mid-step, his eyes widening with fear and shocked surprise. As he fumbles for his pistol, the sergeant tackles and stabs him to the heart, sending him tumbling backwards to land with a heavy thud on the stone-hard bank of the Rio Grande.</p>
- <p>'Well done, sergeant. And you, too, Cal,' says Captain Frankland, as the team gathers at the entrance to the walkway and sets about disposing of the sentries. 'If the guy on the steps had had the chance to raise the alarm, we'd have had the whole of Mad Dog's army down on us by now.'</p>
- <p>After the clansmen have been consigned to the Rio Grande, you check your equipment then follow the others as they hurry away from the walkway area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand up and take hold of the heavy machine gun as Captain Frankland drives off towards the west side of Lordsburg. Haskell locates an ammunition box and helps you to thread a belt of .50-calibre shells into the breech.</p>
- <p>Most of Mad Dog's clansmen are concentrated around the block of buildings where the truck was discovered, but there are some, most notably the Detroit Lions scouts, who have taken up lookout positions in other parts of the town. You pass two or three of them on your way through Lordsburg, yet they seem to ignore you. The jeep, with its clan markings, and the darkness enable you to pass them without challenge.</p>
- <p>It is not until you begin your approach to the access ramp of Interstate 10 that you encounter any problem. Soon after your truck was found, Mad Dog despatched a unit of scouts in a pick-up to guard the freeway ramp, just in case. It was a smart move. When these scouts see you approaching, they switch on a spotlight mounted on the roof of the pick-up above the driver's seat, catching you in its beam. When a radio call confirms that you are not what you seem, they accelerate towards you in an attempt to run you off the road.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a crash of breaking glass and you catch sight of something resembling a can of food as it flies through the window and bounces on the carpeted floor. Immediately there is a flash and a stream of sickly, cream-coloured gas shoots from the can. As it fills the room rapidly, your throat tightens and your eyes stream. A wave of nausea hits you and you rush frantically from the room before it fills with noxious tear gas: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Coughing and retching, you stagger along the corridor until you come to a fire exit at the rear of the building. Desperate for clean air, you kick its locking bar and stumble out into the courthouse yard. You have taken just two steps when the assassin comes rushing around the corner of the courthouse, his rifle in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess a missile weapon and sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the door with caution, taking care to tread lightly on the uneven floorboards to avoid making them creak. A small hatch, covered by a sliding panel of plywood, is positioned in the middle of the door at head height. You guess that it is a spy-hole.</p>
- <p>You place your ear to the door, directly below the covered hatch, and hear muffled voices in the room beyond. Although you cannot hear what is being said, you can tell that they are very frightened. Gently you lift the latch, only to discover that the door is locked on the inside.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect316">If the number is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun has dipped below the western skyline and an eerie twilight bathes the ruined buildings of Lordsburg as you drive into the town. The tracks show that the convoy stopped here, but it must have been a brief visit for the town is now deserted. The fatigue of the mission is beginning to catch up with everyone, and all of you are having difficulty staying awake. The captain decides to camp here overnight and follow the convoy's trail at first light.</p>
- <p>A place to sleep is chosen at random from among the stores and offices that line the main street and the truck is parked in an adjacent alley. You enter to discover that your overnight accommodation was once a video arcade. Scores of video machines line the aisles, standing side-by-side like tombstones in an electronic cemetery. Their screens are blank but their titles are familiar, and they remind you of the hours you spent playing similar machines at home in California before 'The Day'.</p>
- <p>Much to your relief, Sergeant Haskell volunteers to take the first watch. Before you sleep, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236"><link-text>Turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your steely nerve and natural balance help you to regain control of the motorcycle and steer it safely to the bottom of the gully. Then you follow the wide trench until you find a suitable place, on the far side of the rockfall, to make your exit. The ascent is accomplished without difficulty, but when you clear the crest of the gully and bring your motorcycle to a stop, you notice something that makes you break out in a cold sweat.</p>
- <p>From the eastern end of the gully a cloud of dust is approaching. It is over a mile distant, but at once you can tell that it is being kicked up by a motorcycle. You stare at the approaching machine and, although you cannot see the rider, you know that it is the assassin.</p>
- <p>Chilled by his proximity, you wind back the throttle and gun your bike along the bumpy mountain road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you continue along the avenue until you are close enough to the flickering lights to identify them as five huge bonfires. They are blazing in the grounds of a civic building<ch.emdash/>the El Paso Museum of Art<ch.emdash/>the contents of which have been looted to fuel them. Clansmen and their women dance drunkenly around the fires, feeding the flames with paintings, sculptures, and other works of art, while their confederates urge them to greater feats of destruction with screams and applause.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Clansmen and their women dance drunkenly around the fires.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="630" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="630" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The sight of this wanton vandalism stirs you to anger, but you dare not risk an encounter with this drunken crowd, so you turn away from the museum and press on.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously you wipe your palms then pump a shell into the breach of your Remington Brushmaster. A quick glance confirms that the safety catch is off. Then you tense yourself in preparation for this dangerous run.</p>
- <p>Slowly you count down from five and, the moment your count is complete, you leap to your feet and race up the steps. As you clear the crater you mark your destination and sprint towards it, whilst simultaneously covering yourself by firing your shotgun at the sniper's position.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth Skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. To this total add 1 point for every round you choose to fire from your shotgun (minimum: one round; maximum: five rounds).</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain Frankland catches the spinning dollar and slaps it on to the back of his left hand. He removes his right hand to reveal that the coin has fallen tails-up. 'OK men, that decides it,' says Captain Frankland; 'we avoid Columbus an' take a detour on Highway 9.'</p>
- <p>'I think we'd better get going right away, sir,' says Knott, uneasily. 'Look's like more o' Mad Dog's boys are headin' this way.' He points along the highway at an ominous column of dust that is winding towards you from the south.</p>
- <p>'Hell!' spits Frankland. 'That's all we need. Mount up, men. We ain't got the time to party wi' those punks.'</p>
- <p>Marine Knott takes the wheel with the captain riding beside him in the cab. Meanwhile, you and the sergeant climb in the back and take up firing positions at the tailgate. As the truck moves off, you watch anxiously as the column of dust grows closer and closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>Knott produces a crowbar from his Backpack and tries to force open the door, but it soon becomes obvious that it cannot be prised open. A closer examination of the air vent reveals that it was once a much larger window that has recently been partially boarded over. Confident that you can gain entry this way, you tell Knott to attack the slats.</p>
- <p>Within a minute he has made a hole large enough to climb through and, without hesitation, you scramble into the shelter through the jagged gap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214"><link-text>Turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the other side of the truck, there is another sharp crack, followed by the trailing sound of a rifle shot echoing across the surrounding mountains.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If your total score is 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If your total is 13-16, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If it is 17 or more, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you sense the danger and duck to avoid the spinning crowbar. It misses your head by a fraction of an inch before drawing a line of sparks along the concrete pillar. Without stopping to look back, you make your escape from the archway and run south in an attempt to find your partner.</p>
- <p>Knott is crouched in hiding beneath an archway several hundred yards away. He sees you as you pass and attracts your attention by whispering your name. The handler has by now informed his confederates of your whereabouts and the news has sent them into a frenzy of activity. Immediately they launch a manhunt, starting close by. Rather than face them, and jeopardize Frankland's and Haskell's chances of crossing the zone alive, you decide to get away from the freeway as quickly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to control the skid, but before you can bring the roadster back on to a straight course, Mad Dog fires another burst, and the heavy-calibre bullets tear into your rear tyres, ripping them to shreds. Your roadster slews across the freeway and smashes into the central crash barrier, transforming it into a blazing fireball. With a scream of triumph, Mad Dog Michigan passes your burning car, happy in the knowledge that at last he has wrought his revenge.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here, less than thirty miles from Tucson.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the darkness is obliterated by a flash of white light that seems to fill the sky. It fades rapidly only to be replaced by a huge, billowing fireball that towers into the air above the Juarez Race Track.</p>
- <p>'Yahoo! There they go!' shouts Sergeant Haskell, excitedly. Then the noise and the shock wave from the explosion overtake the truck. The roar is deafening, and the shock is so violent that it threatens to send the truck careering off the dusty road. Fortunately, both are quick to pass. As the roar fades to a rumble, you can make out the distant sound of gunfire.</p>
- <p>'That's coming from across the river,' says the captain. 'The colony have begun the break-out!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two miles from the bridge you come to a junction where a mountain track branches off to the north. You are about to ignore it and press on when suddenly you notice the roof of a cabin: it is set back from the track and is almost completely hidden by the pines. Aching with fatigue, and the pain of the minor injuries you have sustained during your flight from the assassin, you decide to investigate the cabin and rest there a while.</p>
- <p>The dwelling was once a private hunting lodge, owned by a wealthy family who lived in Las Cruces before 'The Day'. Its doors and windows are secured, but the corroded locks are easily shattered and you soon gain entry. Most of the rooms are furnished, yet you discover little of practical value until you look in the cellar. There you find enough canned food for twelve Meals and, in an adjacent workshop, you discover something totally unexpected: a brand new off-road motorcycle still packed in its delivery crate.</p>
- <p>Outside, the light is beginning to fade. Attempting to reach Tucson, alone and in the dark, does not strike you as a good idea, so you decide to spend the night here in the cellar. You are worried that the assassin may still be on your trail and so you set about barricading the cellar door. Only when you are sure that he could not possibly enter without waking you, do you settle down for some much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Ready?' Marine Knott nods his head, his jaw taut with concentration as he acknowledges your question.</p>
- <p>'OK then, let's go,' you whisper, as you ease yourself over the rampart, using only your elbows and knees to propel you away from the safety of Fort Bliss.</p>
- <p>Anxiously, the captain and Sergeant Haskell watch as the two of you crawl across the broken ground, their weapons ready to give covering fire should the enemy see you approaching. The faint moonlight serves both to help and hinder your progress as you inch your way towards your first goal: an elevated section of Freeway 54. Clan snipers are known to occupy this vantage point, and you are painfully aware that not until you are directly beneath the raised highway itself will you be beyond the reach of their high-powered rifles.</p>
- <p>Minutes pass like hours until you make it to the comparative safety of a shallow ditch that runs parallel to the concrete freeway supports. Knott arrives while you are scanning the dark, arch-like gaps between the concrete pillars, searching for the enemy, and immediately he points out a threat. Three clansmen are positioned behind a mound of rubble less than twenty yards away to your right. You study them, silently cursing your luck, for they are Detroit Lions; getting past these clansmen is not going to be easy.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Three clansmen are positioned behind a mound of rubble less than twenty yards away.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="625" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="625" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to try to distract their attention, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to try to circle around them, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make the leap, but your legs are tired and you are too fatigued to reach the opposite ledge. With a numbing crunch, you slam face-first into the wall of the neighbouring building and fall three storeys to your death in the alley below.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here in Lordsburg.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The incomprehensible voices continue their mumbling as you ease open the plywood spy-hole cover. Through the crack you can see the bearded man standing to the far side of a large, dimly-lit room. He appears to be talking excitedly at a hole in the ground.</p>
- <p>Accidentally, Knott drops his pistol. The sudden noise makes the bearded man glance at the door. He sees you looking through the spy-hole and fear blanches his face. In the next instant, he dodges aside and disappears from your field of vision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to attempt to barge open the door, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you wish to shoot open the lock, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Knott emerges from the rear door of the Post Office. His own search was fruitless, but he is happy that your search of the town was not entirely in vain. He has less equipment than you, and so he offers to carry the heavy fuel can as you walk back to the furniture store to meet Frankland and Haskell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With guns blazing and bullets ricocheting all around, you steel yourself to fire at the biker as he screams past your hiding place.</p>
- <p>Add together your Shooting and Stealth skill totals. Now, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add this number to your combined skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If your final score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If it is 9-12, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If it is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you three hours to walk the ten miles back to Hachita, during which time you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you enter the town, you see a clan motorcycle parked in front of the gas station. Two men are crouched nearby, studying tracks in the dust made by the truck's tyres.</p>
- <p>'We can't let these two get away,' says Knott, as you approach the station stealthily. 'If they bring the others down on us before we've fixed the truck, we'll be lucky to see the colony again.'</p>
- <p>The two men are so interested in the tracks that they fail to notice you run across the street and take cover behind the gas station wall. Then the first clansman straightens himself and begins to walk towards the bike, while his partner remains kneeling on the ground, sifting through the remnants of the materials Haskell used to repair the truck's gas tank.</p>
- <p>'We gotta take 'em now, and we gotta take 'em quietly,' whispers Knott, as he unsheathes his combat knife. 'There may be others in the neighbourhood. It's too risky to start shooting.'</p>
- <p>The second clansman is now rising to his feet. Knott pats your forearm and motions you to move with him as he gets ready to launch the ambush.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you wish to attack the clansman who is standing beside the motorcycle, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to attack the clansman who is rising to his feet, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond Gleeson the road snakes its way through hills covered with pine, pi<ch.ntilde/>on, and dull grey rocks. The road surface deteriorates rapidly and very soon you are forced to stand in order to remain in full control of your bucking, bouncing machine. Then another, more serious hazard looms into view. A landslip from the surrounding hillside has heaped a mound of rock in the middle of the road ahead, blocking it completely. The only way to circumvent this obstacle involves a difficult descent into a gully that runs parallel to the road, then an equally difficult climb out again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to attempt to negotiate this hazard without dismounting from your motorcycle, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you decide to abandon your bike and scale the rockfall on foot, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately the clansman ducks to avoid your weapon, but it hits him on the forehead and sends him tumbling from the steps to land with a heavy thud on the stone-hard bank of the Rio Grande.</p>
- <p>'Well done, Cal,' says Captain Frankland, as the team gathers at the entrance to the walkway and sets about disposing of the sentries. 'If the guy on the steps had raised the alarm, we'd have had the whole of Mad Dog's army down on us by now.'</p>
- <p>After the clansmen have been consigned to the Rio Grande, you check your equipment (remember to erase your close combat weapon<ch.emdash/>unfortunately, it cannot be recovered from the body of the clansman) and then join the others as they hurry away from the walkway area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin the steering wheel to the right, hoping to avoid the barrier, which is racing towards you at a terrific speed, but Mad Dog anticipates your move and rams you again, sending you to certain doom. Your car slews off the freeway and smashes into the central crash barrier, transforming it into a blazing fireball. With a scream of triumph, Mad Dog passes your burning car, happy in the knowledge that at last he has wrought his revenge.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here, less than thirty miles from Tucson.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect53-1-foot" idref="sect53-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ready yourself and rise to one knee, your gun coming up at the same time in one smooth, fluid motion. A clansman fills your sights and you snatch the trigger; the gun recoils and you see him buckle and fall.<a id="sect53-1" idref="sect53-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Then you scan for another target and find one, but before you can shoot, he falls to a burst of fire from Sergeant Haskell's machine pistol. Inspired by your action, the others join in the firefight and quickly despatch the remaining clansmen. Then you hear the captain barking the order, 'Follow me!' and see Knott and Haskell leaving the wall to run after him. He is heading towards a fire escape ladder on the far side of the roof. You pause just long enough to retrieve your Backpack and belt, then you hurry after them before they disappear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man is easy to follow: a trail of freshly broken foliage clearly marks his escape route through the trees. His tracks end at a clearing, where a wide, crater-like hollow has been excavated from the rocky soil. You catch a glimpse of him hurrying into the hollow by way of a flight of steps that has been cut out of the earth. As you approach the crater, you notice that one side is constructed entirely from logs, and resembles the side of a pine cabin. Frantically the man bangs his clenched fists on a heavy door in the centre of the log wall, screaming to be let in. The door opens and he falls through it, slamming it shut behind him with a heavy thud.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Frantically the man bangs his clenched fists on a heavy door, screaming to be let in.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="632" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="632" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Cautiously the two of you move towards the steps, your weapons ready and your eyes fixed on the closed door. 'He must be a survivor. He's got himself some sort of underground shelter here,' says Knott, having realized by now that you are not tracking the man who is responsible for the murder of your two companions. 'I think you're right,' you reply, 'and I guess he's not alone. Someone opened the door.'</p>
- <p>A few yards to the right of the door you notice an oblong-shaped air vent. You are about to descend the steps and investigate it further when a single gunshot rings out and you feel something hit you sharply in the back. A bullet has clipped your Backpack. The force of its impact takes your breath away and sends you tumbling to the floor of the crater: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and erase one Backpack item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You curse your would-be assassin but you are thankful that your equipment has saved you from sustaining a more serious wound.</p>
- <p>'Dammit!' growls Knott, as he leaps from the steps and lands at your side. 'He's found us.' Together you rise and run towards the door, seeking shelter. Knott bangs his fists on its rough timbers and pleads to be allowed in, but to no avail. The door does not open.</p>
- <p>'We've gotta get inside,' you say, as you scan the trees beyond the edge of the crater. 'We're sitting ducks out here.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you possess an <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it to attempt to gain entry, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you possess a <typ class="item">Tenon Saw</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you possess neither of these items, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your enemy screams and clutches at his chest as you deliver your killing blow. He falls backwards, and, as he rolls towards the tailgate, you notice a Pistol holstered on the rear of his belt. (If you wish to keep this weapon, you discover that it contains ten rounds of 9mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>You rush forward to help Sergeant Haskell deal with his attacker. With your aid, he is able to prise the hands of his enemy from around his throat and, with a double-footed kick to the chest, send him tumbling backwards out of the truck. You are bundling your dead adversary after him when Knott overcomes his panic and manages to restart the engine. With a jolt the truck turns sharply to the left, and the bulldozer rumbles past with barely inches to spare.</p>
- <p>In an attempt to escape from the town, Knott heads towards a narrow side street, but as soon as you enter you are confronted by another hazard. Several of the houses that back on to the street have collapsed and the debris has formed a huge, uneven mound, completely blocking your path. Knott, confident that the truck is capable of scaling this obstacle, shifts the gear selector into all-wheel drive and stamps his foot on the gas pedal. Amid a whine of gears, the truck accelerates towards the mountain of bricks and shattered timbers, hitting the mound at speed. The truck lurches towards the peak, but shudders to a halt less than five feet from the top.</p>
- <p>Knott and the captain both leap from the cab, desperate to clear away the debris that has jammed the front wheels. As they begin work, three clansmen come running around the corner, firing their weapons as they sprint towards the truck. Haskell answers them with a burst of fire that fells the leading two, and sends the survivor scurrying for cover. However, this does little to deter the attack. More clansmen are appearing by the second, and you can tell by their blood-curdling screams that they do not intend to take prisoners.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have a missile weapon and wish to fire at the advancing clansmen, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to help the captain and Marine Knott clear away debris from the front wheels, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously you wipe your sweaty palms on the front of your T-shirt before tensing yourself to begin this dangerous run.</p>
- <p>Slowly you count down from five and, the moment your count is complete, you leap to your feet and race up the steps. As you clear the crater, you mark your destination and sprint towards it, trusting solely in your speed and courage to see you through.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 18 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 19 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Something hits you at the base of the neck, flinging you to the ground with the sheer force of its impact. A sudden, short-lived pain in your chest and a reddening of your vision is all that you sense of the assassin's full metal-jacketed round, which has severed your spinal column and passed clean through your breastbone.</p>
- <p>Your life and you mission end here in Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slap Knott on the shoulder and immediately he starts to climb the stairs. The clansmen are now at the door, so hurriedly you descend the steps towards the basement, where you emerge in an underground parking lot. One hundred yards away moonlight reflects on the rippled surface of an exit ramp to the street above and you walk towards it briskly. A sudden noise on the stairs causes you to break into a run, but you are brought to an abrupt halt as two pairs of booted feet appear at the top of the ramp. As the men begin to descend, you slip away to the right and hide between two parked cars.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the door opposite and find that it is unlocked. Carefully you lift the latch and push it open, and as the light from the corridor illuminates the darkness, you see that it contains two bunk beds and a few other pieces of plain pine furniture. Children's toys, lovingly crafted from wood and bone, line the shelves. You are closing the door when you notice a wooden whistle lying on the top of a clothes trunk.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep the <typ class="item">Whistle</typ>, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack item.</p>
- <p>Having discovered what lies behind two of the doors in this corridor, you leave the room determined to learn what lies behind the third.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you realize that the sergeant and captain have mistaken you for clansmen, you take evasive action. The only cover is a shallow gully that runs alongside the highway, and immediately you steer towards it. Bullets are kicking up the dust in a line that follows you all the way off the road, but your skill and the speed of your reactions save you from being hit and enable you to bring the bike to a controlled halt.</p>
- <p>It takes several minutes of shouting before you are able to convince Frankland and Haskell that you are not the enemy. When at last they realize their mistake., they throw down their guns and run towards you with looks of abject horror on their faces. Both men are clearly shocked at how near they came to killing you.</p>
- <p>Once you have all got over the shock, you busy yourselves by helping Knott replace the damaged ignition unit. The new unit works perfectly, and within half an hour of your return the engine is running smoothly and you are able to continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift your G-12 to your shoulder and, as you take aim at the assassin's chest, you see him take up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places the bulky lenses to his visor and begins to search the surrounding rooftops. This seems a curious thing to do: the buildings are close, surely he does not need binoculars to be able to see if anyone is standing on top of them?</p>
- <p>Then he dips the lenses and scans the ground-floor windows of the courthouse. A sudden chill stabs your heart as you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, enhanced-resolution, image intensifiers. He sees you and immediately you snatch the trigger, fearful that you have left your burst of fire too late.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hidden on the lower slopes of the trail you discover a wire leg snare, designed to trap rabbit or other small game. The snare is in good condition, indicating that it must have been set sometime within the last ten days. Someone else must be living here in the forest. You tell Knott of your find and proceed with renewed caution.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman slumps lifelessly across the bodies of his two dead dogs, his hand still grasping his crowbar in a vice-grip. You try to prise it loose but soon abandon the attempt in favour of searching his pockets instead. You discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- <li>Pistol (containing three rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Whistle</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Rather than wait for his confederates to find his body, you leave the archway and attempt to find your partner. Knott is crouched in hiding beneath an archway further south. He sees you as you pass and attracts your attention by whispering your name. The discovery of the handler and his dead dogs sends the clansmen into a frenzy of activity and immediately they launch a manhunt. Fortunately, they start by searching some distance away, enabling the two of you to slip away unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mounds of dust lie heaped before the closed doors of this derelict town, stirred to lazy movement by the warm breeze that sweeps down from the surrounding mountains. You park your motorcycle before a burnt-out gas station, then walk slowly along the main street, peering into the grimy windows as you pass. Only three buildings strike you as worthy of further investigation: a hardware store, a drug store, and a radio repair shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to investigate the hardware store, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you choose to enter the drug store, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you decide to take a closer look at the radio shop, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you prefer to abandon your search and return to your motorcycle and leave Gleeson, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer along the ground at the truck behind and see the captain crouching beneath it, signalling to you to place your contact mine in position. The heavy disc locks itself against the dusty tank and you uncover its detonator button carefully. Once again the captain signals and once again you obey his command, this time by pressing the button. As soon as you hear the timing mechanism start to tick, you close your Backpack and make a dash for the truck that Knott has commandeered.</p>
- <p>Frankland and Haskell join your escape: the captain is running twenty yards ahead of you and the sergeant, who has had to place two mines, is trailing behind you by about the same distance. Knott sees you in the side mirror and starts the truck, smoke belching from the exhaust pipe as he revs the reluctant engine. The captain reaches the rear and clambers over the tailgate just as a couple of clansmen notice you running and begin shouting wildly. Their screams distract your attention and you fail to notice a metal tool locker that is lying on the ground directly in your path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gas station's three storage tanks have been emptied of fuel recently, but a little still remains at the bottom of each. It takes an hour to siphon this residual gasolene<ch.emdash/>less than two gallons<ch.emdash/>from the tanks, by which time Sergeant Haskell has been able to seal the three bullet holes.</p>
- <p>While Haskell is pouring the precious gasolene into the truck, you help Knott to make a quick search of the gas station for useful spares. Your search uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Electrolyte</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Wire Cutters</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Screwdriver</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these Backpack Items, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Captain Frankland is disappointed at having found so little fuel, but Knott assures him that it should be sufficient to enable you to reach Lordsburg and rendezvous with the colony. Once the refuelling has been completed, you climb aboard and set off in a new direction<ch.emdash/>north, towards a junction with Interstate Freeway 10.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183"><link-text>Turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Follow me, sergeant,' says Captain Frankland. 'I'll take the one on the left, you take the one on the right. Is that understood?' Sergeant Haskell acknowledges the order as he unsheathes his own combat knife.</p>
- <p>'You two stay here,' says Frankland, addressing you and Marine Knott. 'As soon as we've dealt with the sentries you follow us, OK?'</p>
- <p>'OK,' you reply, simultaneously.</p>
- <p>You watch expectantly as Frankland and Haskell creep up on the two unwary clansmen. Swiftly they silence them, then signal to you to help hide the bodies. You respond immediately, but as you are nearing the end of the walkway, suddenly you see a clansman appear at the edge of the river bank and start to descend a flight of steps that leads to the walkway gate. It can only be a matter of seconds before he sees what is going on.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to raise your gun and open fire at the approaching clansman, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you choose to draw a close combat weapon and hurl it at the clansman, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you decide to shout a warning to the captain, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a door bursts open behind you and instinctively you spin around to face the threat. As you turn, you see that the door was concealed by a bookcase. Now it is wide open, and standing before it is the bearded man with a pistol clamped firmly in both hands. Purely in reflex you raise your gun, but the man fires before you can bring it to bear. His bullet grazes your wrist (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and sends your weapon spinning from your grasp.</p>
- <p>Instantly Knott moves to retaliate but the smoking pistol is now aimed at his face.</p>
- <p>'Drop it,' growls the stranger, and reluctantly Knott obeys his command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A long-limbed clansman dressed in a tiger-striped combat suit is standing at the corner of the street. He is directing the attack and, judging by the way the other clansmen react to his orders, he must be their commander.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you are using a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you are using a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you are using a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you are using a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You anticipate Mad Dog's attack and steer into the collision. Your skilful manoeuvre enables you to keep in a straight line and sends Mad Dog's speedster veering away to the left. You hit the ramp, shoot through the narrow gap and cross the bridge, glancing in your mirror to see Mad Dog Michigan's car soar into the air. For a moment it seems to hang in the sky, then it tips forward and plummets into the drainageway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race up the stairs and find an office that overlooks the main street. From the window you watch the clan rider bring his motorcycle to a halt at the edge of town. He is wearing a close-fitting black leather riding suit, a full-face black crash helmet, and is sporting a rig of combat equipment that makes him look like a futuristic space warrior.</p>
- <p>Slowly he climbs off his machine, pausing briefly to adjust the controls of his air-conditioned riding suit. Then he unsheathes a scoped rifle from his saddle holster and advances along the main street, using the shadowy doorways of the stores and offices to cover his approach. He is thirty yards away, on the opposite side of the street, when he stops to select an orange-tipped bullet from a pouch at his hip. You watch with fearful anticipation as he presses the round into the breach of his rifle, raises the weapon to his shoulder, and takes aim at your motorcycle. There is a sharp crack, followed by a roaring boom as the incendiary round ignites and explodes the fuel tank.</p>
- <p>With pounding heart, you watch as coolly he lowers his rifle and proceeds to reload it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to attempt to shoot the assassin while he is busy reloading his rifle, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you have insufficient ammunition, or if you choose not to fire at the assassin, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Hold it right there!' screams the clansman, as he fixes you with his flashlight. He stands silhouetted in the doorway, as his bloodhound comes loping across the desks towards you. Desperately you try to pass through the window before he can raise his gun and fire. Unfortunately, the clansman has taped his torch to the barrel of his machine pistol, which is already aimed at your chest. Callously he watches as you struggle to get clear, then he pulls the trigger and sprays the window with a deadly hail of lead.</p>
- <p>Hot cores of pain erupt in your right thigh and shoulder as three of the bullets clip you and send you spinning out of the window<ch.emdash/>lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Reeling from the impact of your fall and the pain of your wounds, you drag yourself to your feet and stagger down the fire escape as quickly as you are able.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of firm ground when the bark of the tree you are grasping tears loose in your hands. Desperately you throw out your arms in an attempt to find new purchase, but you are already falling and your flailing hands claw only air.</p>
- <p>For a few seconds your senses are scrambled as you somersault backwards through the empty sky. Then you hit an outcrop of rock and instantly all feeling deserts your body, saving you from experiencing the pain of your shattered bones when finally you crash to the valley floor below.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Pedregosa Mountains.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race across to the gas station and slide to a halt behind its solitary pump just as the first of the bikers reaches the apex of the bridge. Seconds later the captain's voice bellows the order: 'Open fire!' The others obey, strafing the Angelinos as they come speeding off the bridge. Two riders are hit and fall from their machines; a third has his front tyre shot out and loses control, crashing into the parapet; but the fourth rider seems to escape injury and comes screaming away from the bridge, heading on a collision course with the gas pump. An icicle of fear stabs your heart as you realize that he does not intend to stop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to fire at the approaching biker and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you decide to dive out of his path, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If your Perception skill total is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the jeep speeds away from Lordsburg, you watch the blazing wreckage disappear slowly into the night. You are half-expecting a horde of clansmen to come roaring out of the town in hot pursuit, but as you make your escape there is no sign of any clan activity.</p>
- <p>You cover fifteen miles, reaching the intersection with Highway 80, when the jeep runs out of fuel. The captain lets it cruise to the side of the freeway, and as soon as it stops he leaps out and walks around to the back to unhook a large fuel can that is strapped to the spare tyre.</p>
- <p>'It's your turn to drive, Cal,' he says, as he shakes the can. You obey this command and settle yourself in the driving seat while he pours the contents into the jeep's empty tank. 'There's about two gallons in this,' he says, as the precious gas sloshes into the filler pipe. 'It's not going to get us very far.'</p>
- <p>The captain is pouring in the last few drops of the spare gas when suddenly you discover why you were not followed out of Lordsburg.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the ground, biting back your urge to scream as you gash the palms of your hands and your knees on the jagged rubble (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Marine Knott follows your lead and the beam of torchlight passes over your still bodies without stopping. It hovers nearby for a few seconds then moves away.</p>
- <p>Slowly you crawl the final few yards to cover. When both of you are hidden from view, you wait for your breathing to return to normal before glancing around the pillar to see if the coast is clear. The three clansmen are now searching the place where the rock landed. Confident that you have not been detected, you readjust your equipment and continue on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have inadvertently stumbled upon a remote survivalist colony, which undoubtedly had the foresight to prepare a shelter long before the holocaust occurred. Your arrival and means of entry must have convinced them that they are under concerted attack, and they have sought sanctuary in the lower levels of their shelter.</p>
- <p>You share your thoughts with Knott and he agrees with your assessment of the situation. Rather than risk it ending in tragedy, he calls out to whoever is hiding below, assuring them that you wish them no harm and asking them to come out and talk with you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To find yourself looking into the muzzle of your enemy's assault rifle sends a shiver down your spine. You must fire first and make it count if you are to survive this deadly situation.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If your total score is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you are unable to find any water purification tablets among the supplies in your Medi-kit. The spring looks cool and clean, but you know only too well that appearances are deceptive. The water could easily be contaminated with dangerous bacteria, viral organisms, or residual radioactivity, which could kill you in a matter of hours, days or weeks.</p>
- <p>Rather than risk your life, reluctantly you avoid the spring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">To continue, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sleep deeply but not for very long: the truck comes to a stop barely an hour after you closed your eyes, and you are woken by the sudden lack of movement. 'Where are we?' you ask, shielding your bleary eyes from the glare of the early morning sunlight.</p>
- <p>'Bout a mile from the border,' says the captain, as he pulls open the tailgate latch and lets the heavy section swing down noisily. 'There's trouble up ahead. You two had better take a look for y'selves.'</p>
- <p>You and Sergeant Haskell stretch your aching limbs, then ease yourselves down from the truck to take a look at your surroundings. You have stopped on a boulder-strewn highway that descends towards a town occupying a narrow mountain pass. North, beyond the sun-bleached buildings, the peaks of the Florida Mountains dominate the skyline. To the west of the town, another highway branches away at a junction that is marked with a battered road sign.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you possess a pair of <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you do not possess this Backpack item, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'I think they were waiting to hear some good news from an agent they sent after us,' you reply, as you walk together towards the place where Kate has parked your roadster. 'They've a long wait if they're still expecting him to call.'</p>
- <p>Kate looks at you with a puzzled expression, and you recount in detail the events that befell the team during the escape from Ciudad Juarez. As you drive out of Benson, you tell her how Frankland, Haskell and Knott met their deaths, and how you avenged them in your showdown with their murderer, Helmut Varken, at the Tombstone courthouse.</p>
- <p>'What d'you think's gonna happen when Mad Dog finds out that you've killed Varken?' she asks, nervously.</p>
- <p>'Well, he ain't gonna be happy, that's f'sure, especially after what we did at Ciudad. I don't know what he'll do. I guess we'll just have to wait an' see.'</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, you do not have to wait long.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike swiftly, silently and lethally. As soon as it is all over, the captain signals to Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott. They rush to the jeep, returning your equipment, and then help him to search the Mavericks' bodies before hiding them in the bus depot. Of the items that are found, you can choose from the following three:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Bowie Knife (3)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>On returning to the vehicle, Captain Frankland offers you the opportunity to drive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to drive the jeep, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to let the captain drive, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you lumber towards the trees, another shot echoes across the mountains. Almost immediately you feel something sharp, like a hot razor, cut across your thigh: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The pain makes you flinch, but you dare not stop for fear of being picked off by the sniper. You reach the trees and throw yourself down behind a thick pine, breathless with the sheer exertion of your ordeal. As you lie there, nursing your wounded leg and fighting to control the nausea that rises in waves, Marine Knott crawls to your side and tugs at your sleeve.</p>
- <p>'We stand a better chance if we can get deeper into the forest,' he says, his voice betraying the fear that is gnawing at his insides like a voracious rat. You blink your approval and struggle to follow him as he crawls across the tinder-dry bed of pine needles and sickly brown vegetation that covers the tall trees' roots.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the dog begins to bark<ch.emdash/>he has seen you. Automatically you cock your gun as the clansman spins around and points his machine pistol at you. Unable to move from your hiding place, you have no choice but to fire at your enemy before he sees you clearly.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Knott screams, and you see his head forced flat against his shoulder by the impact of the sniper's bullet. Crab-like he staggers sideways, then for a few brief seconds he seems to defy gravity before finally crashing to the ground. You rush to his side to find dark blood trickling from beneath his hairline; instinctively you know that it is already too late to help him.</p>
- <p>A rush of adrenaline, triggered by the anger and resentment you feel towards Knott's assassin, surges through your veins and spurs you to immediate action. You grab your gun and scurry towards the steps, seeking cover there below the lip of the crater. A second shot rings out and a high-velocity bullet kicks up a column of dust within inches of your face. As you duck, you see the muzzle flash and pinpoint the assassin's position among some foliage, twenty yards away to your left. You know that for as long as you keep your head below ground level you will be safe from his rifle. You also know that he can move to another position whenever he chooses.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you glance over the lip of the crater, looking for somewhere safer to hide, and spot a clump of dense foliage less than ten yards from the steps.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you have sufficient ammunition to be able to fire your gun, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you have insufficient ammunition to be able to fire, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Comfort is hard to find as the truck speeds along the pot-holed Mexican highway that heads west out of Ciudad Juarez. You brace your feet against the bench seat opposite and hang on to the tailgate with your free hand in an effort to keep the bruising to a minimum, but to little avail. Outside, the mountains rush past on either side, lit by the moon yet softened by the clouds of dust billowing in the truck's wake. Both the captain and the sergeant are searching the truck while you keep a watchful eye open for the clansmen. Your thoughts wander, and you find yourself thinking of the perils that must be facing Kate and the rest of the colony at this moment as they stage their vital break-out from Fort Bliss. You can only hope and pray that the destruction of Mad Dog's headquarters has secured their escape.</p>
- <p>A flickering pin-prick of light alerts you to danger. It grows brighter, then divides into two, three, then five. The lights grow larger until you can make out the silhouettes of five clan bikers speeding along the highway in hot pursuit.</p>
- <p>'We've got visitors!' you shout, steadying your gun. But Haskell and Frankland do not respond: they are examining something on the floor near the cab and do not hear your warning.</p>
- <p>The leading biker is now less than ten yards away from the tailgate, his headlight shining full in your face. Gunshots crack and bullets ricochet off the rear as his pillion rider attempts to shoot you dead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you are using a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you are using a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you are using a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you are using a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scream as Mad Dog opens fire with his machine pistol, and slam your foot on the brake pedal. Your swift action saves you from death but you do not escape unscathed. One bullet clips your forearm and another grazes your neck: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Knowing that your enemy has only one hand on the wheel of his speeding car, you nudge the side of his speedster, tempting him to retaliate, and then, when he rises to your challenge, you brake heavily. Because he is still holding his machine pistol, he fails to react in time to prevent his car from crossing in front of you and hitting the central barrier. Metal twists and sparks fly from his fender as he scrapes along the crash barrier at nearly 100 miles an hour. You put your foot down and overtake him on the left, powering your roadster away as he fights to extricate himself from the barrier's magnet-like grip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like a cat, you spring forward and pad towards the clansman as quickly and as quietly as you can. He is standing half-crouched when he sees you, and immediately he retreats, still bent over, until his back hits the gas pump and he can go no further. You strike first, confident of victory, but he avoids the blow and retaliates with a punch to your body. You pull away, evading the punch, but it has served its purpose. It buys the clansman the few seconds he needs to draw a knife from his belt.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The clansman avoids the blow and retaliates with a punch to your body.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="612" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="612" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Big Apple</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you win and the combat lasts five rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">if the fight lasts six rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The incessant noise of the dogs is making your stomach churn. Then you catch sight of them<ch.emdash/>two slack-jowled bloodhounds<ch.emdash/>padding their way across the Montana Road with two clansmen close behind. One of the men is carrying a machine pistol; the other a long-handled flashlight.</p>
- <p>'Run for it!' you hiss, pointing towards the ruins. Knott turns and sprints away. As soon as he is clear of the ditch, the dogs begin to bark wildly, alerting their handlers to your position. You scramble out and follow your partner, praying that you will reach cover before the clansmen see you and open fire. Your prayers are answered. In his haste the clansman drops his flashlight, and before he can retrieve it and switch it on, you follow Knott through the open door of a derelict building.</p>
- <p>'We stand a better chance if we split up,' you say, casting an anxious glance over your shoulder at the yellow light that is now streaming through the doorway. 'But remember<ch.emdash/>meet up at the bridge as planned.'</p>
- <p>The torchlight illuminates the interior sufficiently for you to be able to make out two possible exits: a carpeted staircase leading to the first floor, and another leading down to the basement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to ascend the stairs to the first floor, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you decide to descend to the basement, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually the condition of the road improves and you are able to increase your speed. Five miles have slipped swiftly under your wheels when you see the ruins of a town, shimmering on the horizon, and catch a glimpse of the metalled highway that runs through it, heading north to south.</p>
- <p>It is the ruins of Tombstone, famed for the swift and ferocious gunfight that took place here at the OK Corral on 26 October, 1881. As you approach the town and see its faded sign, you remember the old romantic Hollywood films you saw when you were young, in which Doc Holliday and the Earp brothers met and defeated the Clantons and McLowerys, their bitter, sworn enemies. The post-holocaust storms have left this place looking much like it must have done to those men when they shot it out over 100 years ago. The historical buildings are sun-bleached and shabby, and the main street is completely empty, devoid even of auto wrecks and other twenty-first century debris.</p>
- <p>As you ride along the main street, you notice that the sound of your motorcycle's engine has grown coarser and louder; it is as if it were filled with loose nuts and bolts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you possess some <typ class="item">Engine Oil</typ>, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mad Dog follows your manoeuvre and rams you towards the crash barrier. Kate screams as the barrier looms into view: a high-speed collision is imminent.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If your total score is 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If your score is 21 or more, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only way you know of retrieving gasolene from a fuel tank is by siphoning, and to do this you need a length of tubing. You search the parking lot, but can find nothing that remotely resembles a length of flexible pipe. Then you remember something that Cutter taught you when you were learning to drive, and the recollection of it spreads a smile across your face. Using a braided fuel line cut from the carburettor, you are able to siphon more than a gallon of gasolene from the truck's fuel tank. Once you are sure that you have retrieved as much fuel as possible, you seal the fuel can and call for Marine Knott to join you in the parking lot.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep the braided fuel line, mark it as a <typ class="item">Plastic Tube</typ> on your list of Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By keeping strictly to the alleys and side streets you are able to make your way deep into the heart of the city, avoiding the numerous clan patrols. At length you reach the banks of the Rio Grande and follow the river westwards towards your rendezvous destination. Your early encounters with Mad Dog's men have delayed you and now, as you hurry along the walkways and plazas bordering the river, you are fearful that you will arrive too late to join the others. You are hurrying along a walled sidewalk when you catch sight of the Stanton Street Toll Bridge less than 400 yards away. You are confident that it is the right bridge for it is the only one still intact. A glance at your wristwatch shows that you have less than ten minutes to spare.</p>
- <p>You are about to break into a run when suddenly you hear a noise behind you that makes you freeze: it is the sound of a pistol being cocked. Instinctively you reach for your gun as you spin around to face your potential attacker, but your fear quickly evaporates when you see the familiar face of Marine Knott peering at you from over the walkway wall.</p>
- <p>'You're getting a touch careless, Cal,' he says, as he holsters his pistol and clambers over the wall to join you.</p>
- <p>'Yeah, you're right,' you reply, self-consciously. 'I oughta know by now. Better late than dead, right?'</p>
- <p>'Right,' he says, and slaps you reassuringly on the back. 'The bridge is over there. It'll only take a few minutes to reach it. If all's well, the captain and Sergeant Haskell should be there already waitin' for us.'</p>
- <p>You set off, soon reaching a cluster of old US immigration offices standing at the approach to the bridge. As Knott predicted, Frankland and Haskell are waiting for you to show and, as you approach the buildings, they call you over to join them. They have already scouted the bridge and determined that there are four clan guards on the bridge itself, but none at all on the service walkway that runs beneath it.</p>
- <p>'We've less than an hour before the explosives are due to arrive,' says the captain, checking his watch. 'Is everyone ready?'</p>
- <p>You nod in unison. 'OK then. Let's go!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you begin to climb the steep trail, you fail to notice a wire leg snare, designed to trap rabbit or other small game, which has been set near the bottom of the slope. You set it off, and the wire tightens around your ankle, cutting deep into the flesh: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>After extricating your leg, you notice that the snare is in remarkably good condition, indicating that it has been set sometime within the last ten days at most.</p>
- <p>Someone else must be living here in the forest, setting this type of snare to catch fresh food. You tell Knott of your find before proceeding with renewed caution.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansmen are armed with assault rifles, which they empty at the truck. Bullets ricochet from the rear and whistle past on every side, forcing you to duck behind the tailgate for cover. Your reflexes save you from being hit, but as you duck for cover, you catch your chin on the edge of the tailgate, splitting the skin: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>The firing stops and you raise your head in time to see the clan leader running into the middle of the highway, his hand outstretched to pick up a walkie-talkie that must have dropped from his pocket. He could attempt to radio another clan outpost, perhaps in Mimbres or even nearer, and forewarn them of your arrival.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to attempt to shoot the clansman to prevent him from using his radio, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you have insufficient ammunition, or do not wish to fire at him, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having satisfied yourself that nothing has been overlooked, you leave the drug store and return to your motorcycle. Before you start the engine you make a quick check of the cooling fins and notice that they are very hot to the touch. The lack of oil is causing the engine to overheat. As you remount the machine and kick start the engine, you hope desperately that it will keep running long enough to get you back to the colony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect97-1-foot" idref="sect97-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire and hit the Angelino clansman in the side as he roars past your hiding place, sending him tumbling from his machine to hit the ground in a cloud of dust.<a id="sect97-1" idref="sect97-1-foot" class="footnote" /> It is not until the dust settles and your heartbeat begins to slow that you realize that you have been wounded.</p>
- <p>A neat hole in your jacket sleeve marks the entry point of a machine pistol bullet. Fortunately, it is a clean wound and there is very little bleeding, the slug having passed through the muscle of your inner forearm, missing the bone by a hair's breadth: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Soon the feeling returns and your arm begins to ache viciously. Marine Knott helps you to clean and bandage the wound while the others search the clansmen's bodies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your rifle to your shoulder and, as you align the sights at the assassin's chest, you see him take up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places these bulky lenses to his visor and begins to search the surrounding rooftops. This strikes you as a curious thing to do as the buildings are close: surely he does not need binoculars to be able to see if anyone is standing on top of them?</p>
- <p>He dips the lenses and scans the ground floor windows of the courthouse, and a sudden chill stabs your heart as you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, enhanced-resolution, image intensifiers. He sees you and immediately you squeeze the trigger, fearful that you have left your shot too late.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect99-1-foot" idref="sect99-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The commander dives aside fast enough to avoid being hit, but one of his men is not so lucky. As he runs around the corner, he catches your gunfire full in the chest and is thrown backwards to the ground.<a id="sect99-1" idref="sect99-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Angered by your attempt to kill him, the hard-faced clan commander unslings his rifle and throws himself down behind the man you have just shot, using his body as a shield.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to fire at the commander before he can fire at you, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect301">If you decide to take cover behind the tailgate, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After considering the situation, Captain Frankland calls the team together in a room at the rear of the derelict cafe. 'We've got two options, men,' he says, quietly. 'Either we ambush the trucks before they reach the race track, or we hit 'em once they're inside. What d'you think, sergeant?'</p>
- <p>Haskell shifts uneasily, his face lined with concentration. I think we're gonna have t' blow them once they're inside, sir. We don't know for sure which direction they'll approach from, and, considerin' what they've got on board, I doubt if they'll stop for anything until they're safe inside Michigan's HQ.' You nod in agreement, as does Marine Knott.</p>
- <p>'Very well then. If we can't ambush 'em on the outside, we'll have to get inside the track and destroy 'em there. It'll make our chances of escape a whole lot shorter, but I agree with you<ch.emdash/>I reckon we have no choice.'</p>
- <p>Having decided on a plan of action, Sergeant Haskell distributes the mines, one to each man. 'Set the timers to five minutes,' he says, and demonstrates how to do this using his own charge. 'They're magnetic, so try to fix them to the fuel tank if possible. Failing that, place them as near to the explosives as you can get.'</p>
- <p>You examine the heavy, saucer-like device and then carefully set its clockwork timer, according to Haskell's instructions. Finally, you flick across the safety cover so that it protects the detonator button, and slip the mine inside your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Record the <typ class="item">Contact Mine</typ> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack item. If you already possess the maximum quota of Backpack Items, you must discard one article in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">To continue, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Puzzled and frustrated by his unexpected retreat, all manner of questions form in your mind. Did he see you? Was he only a clan scout and not the sniper after all? Did the sniper overtake you during the night, and is he now lying in wait somewhere on the road ahead?</p>
- <p>After several minutes of useless deliberation you try to lay aside these thoughts and apply yourself to the task of rejoining your colony. Without transport, the journey is going to be extremely difficult, so you decide to try to salvage your discarded motorcycle. To the west, the rockfall is far less steep and you have no difficulty descending to the edge of the gully. Then you lower yourself down the final slope to where your motorcycle lies at the bottom. You are expecting to find little more than a twisted heap of scrap metal, so it comes as a welcome surprise to discover that the machine is still in working order. After straightening the handlebars and the front wheel alignment, you climb astride it and restart the engine on the fifth kick.</p>
- <p>You follow the wide trench until you find a suitable place to make your exit. The ascent is accomplished without difficulty, and, as you clear the crest of the gully, you bring your motorcycle to a halt in order to take a last look at the retreating clansman. For a moment the recent memory of your murdered companions sends a shiver along your spine, but the memory fades quickly when you wind back the throttle and gun your bike along the bumpy mountain road, heading west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Captain Frankland curse your bad luck: first the clansmen at Columbus and now this breakdown have thwarted your hopes of a rendezvous with the colony at Deming. Then suddenly it occurs to you that if the colony were able to reach Deming on time, they would by now have realized that you were not going to make it, and would have continued along Interstate 10 as planned. You are less than fifteen miles from this freeway, and should be well within radio range.</p>
- <p>With your hopes high, you retrieve your CB transceiver from your pack, switch on, and key in the frequency used by DC1. 'Phoenix to DC1, Phoenix to DC1,' you call, but the only reply you receive is a loud burst of static. After trying several different frequencies, you finally accept that you cannot get through.</p>
- <p>'Don't worry, Cal,' says the captain on seeing how disappointed you are. 'At least if we can't use the radio to keep in touch, then neither can Mad Dog's men.'</p>
- <p>It is early evening before Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott return, but at least their journey was not in vain. The ignition unit that Knott spotted at the gas station works perfectly when fitted to the truck, and within half an hour of their return, the engine is running smoothly once more and you are able to continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bullet clips your left shoulder and pitches you into the trees on the far side of the plateau (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The land drops steeply, causing you to tumble head over heels through the scrub and bracken. When eventually you come to a stop, you are covered from head to toe with scratches and other minor abrasions (lose an additional 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Painfully you stagger to your feet and force yourself to continue your descent. Soon you reach the stream that you discovered during your climb, and you stop briefly to bathe your wounds and to try to determine if you are still being followed. The surrounding trees seem unnaturally quiet, and it is easy to imagine that an assassin lurks behind every trunk.</p>
- <p>Your strength returns and with trepidation you continue, leaving the trail to follow the water as it flows west towards the Swissheim Mountain. You cover twelve miles without incident and by early evening you arrive at a small bridge where a road, running north to south, crosses the stream. You check your <a idref="map">map</a>, but the road is too minor to be listed. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to leave the stream and follow the road, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you choose to continue along the stream, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you reach for your gun as you spin around to face your potential attacker, but your fear fades quickly when you see the familiar face of Marine Knott peering at you from over the walkway wall.</p>
- <p>'You're getting a touch careless, Cal,' he says, as he holsters his pistol and clambers over the wall to join you.</p>
- <p>'Yeah, you're right,' you reply, self-consciously. 'I oughta know by now. Better late than dead, right?'</p>
- <p>'Right, he says, and slaps you reassuringly on the back. 'The bridge is over there. It'll only take a few minutes to reach it. If all's well, the captain and Sergeant Haskell should already be there waitin' for us.'</p>
- <p>You set off, soon reaching a cluster of old US immigration offices standing at the approach to the bridge. As Knott predicted, Frankland and Haskell are waiting for you to show and, as you approach the buildings, they call you over to join them. They have already scouted the bridge and determined that there are four clan guards on the bridge itself, but none at all on the service walkway that runs beneath it.</p>
- <p>'We've less than an hour before the explosives are due to arrive,' says the captain, checking his watch. 'Is everyone ready?'</p>
- <p>You nod in unison. 'OK then. Let's go!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door buckles under the impact, driving a piece of twisted metal into your ribs: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Despite the fearful pain, you have the presence of mind to steer into the collision. Your swift and skilful manoeuvre enables you to keep a straight line and sends Mad Dog's speedster veering away to the left. You hit the ramp, shoot through the narrow gap, and cross the bridge, glancing in your mirror to see Mad Dog Michigan's car soar into the air. For a moment it seems to hang in the sky, then it tips forward and plummets into the drainageway.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>For a moment the car seems to hang in the sky, then it tips forward and plummets into the drainageway.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'I think I might have the answer to our problem,' you say, as you fish in your Backpack for the solar regulator. The unit is not designed to fit this vehicle, but you plan to attach it to the battery's terminals and then short circuit the unit to provide a surge of power, sufficient to recharge the battery and spark the engine.</p>
- <p>It takes nearly an hour to rewire the regulator, by which time the sun is beating down directly on to the exposed, unregulated solar core. The cells at the core convert the solar power unchecked, and within a few minutes the unit is humming and giving off wisps of pungent blue smoke.</p>
- <p>'Try starting it now,' you call out to Knott, who is sitting in the driver's seat, looking as anxious as if he were sitting on a ticking time bomb. He hot-wires the ignition switch and immediately the engine coughs and splutters into life. As soon as it is running smoothly, you cover your hands with your leather jacket, disconnect the red-hot regulator from the battery, and throw it away.</p>
- <p>This item is now beyond repair: remember to erase it from your list of Backpack Items before you continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sharp pain courses up your leg as you scrape your shin and twist your ankle simultaneously: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You fall, but moments later Sergeant Haskell drags you to your feet and bundles you towards the truck. As you arrive, the captain reaches down and grabs you by the jacket, and together the two men push and pull you unceremoniously over the tailgate.</p>
- <p>As the sergeant leaps aboard and Knott takes off towards the west gate, you discover that you have lost some items of equipment as a result of your fall. Erase from your Backpack the item you have recorded last on your list. Also, erase two Medi-kit units and six rounds of ammunition (any calibre).</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">To continue, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An old US Mail panel truck is the only vehicle in the Post Office parking lot. Its tyres have rotted, its battery is dead, and its engine is so full of dust that it will never work again. However, it still has some gasolene left in its fuel tank. The truck may not carry you anywhere but you cannot readily abandon its fuel.</p>
- <p>You look for some means of collecting the gas, and discover an empty fuel can lying in the cab. However, you are still faced with the problem of getting the gasolene out of the truck's fuel tank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you possess a <typ class="item">Plastic Tube</typ>, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hastily you flip open your Backpack and remove a handful of dried jackrabbit meat. Knott anticipates what you are planning to do and quickly uncorks his canteen and splashes the stringy meat with water. You hurl it in the direction of the hounds and make a dash for the ruins before the dogs catch sight of you attempting to escape.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Field Craft skill total. For every Meal (in excess of one) that you decide to use, add 3 points to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After ten hours' deep, uninterrupted sleep, you wake feeling thoroughly refreshed: restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The barricade is still intact and, once it is dismantled, you arm yourself before investigating the six other buildings that comprise the town. All of them are empty and show no signs of having been entered during the night, prompting you to believe that you may, at least for the time being , have given the assassin the slip.</p>
- <p>In a shack behind the diner you discover a motorcycle that is in a serviceable condition. The tyres are sound and the gas tank is over half full with gasolene, but its oil level is very low. As you kick start the engine you can only hope that it will get you as far as Tucson before breaking down.</p>
- <p>After studying the <a idref="map">map</a> you mount your new vehicle and set off, heading north along Highway 666. You have ridden only seven miles when a collapsed bridge forces you to change direction and travel west along an unmarked mountain road. You enjoy the cool breeze whipping through your hair as you ride at speed along this empty trail, and you cover more than twenty miles before coming to a small town where a sign proclaims:</p>
- <signpost>GLEESON WELCOMES CAREFUL DRIVERS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to stop at this mountain town, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you decide to ride through without stopping, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give your enemy your undivided attention, for he is a formidable opponent. Also, he presents a difficult target: he is partially hidden behind the brick pillar of a hardware store, and his black suit merges readily with the shadows. Despite these disadvantages, you know that this may be your only chance to put an end to his pursuit and avenge the lives of your three dead comrades.</p>
- <p>You watch as be completes the reloading of his rifle. Then he shoulders the weapon and takes up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places these bulky lenses to his visor and methodically scans the surrounding rooftops. This seems a curious thing to do as the buildings are very close: surely he does not need binoculars to be able to see if anyone is standing on top of them?</p>
- <p>You prepare your own weapon and get ready to take aim. Then a chill stabs your heart as he scans the first floor windows of the courthouse and you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, high-resolution, image intensifiers.</p>
- <p>Immediately you duck back from the window, but you cannot help but fear that he has already located your position.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect112-1-foot" idref="sect112-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire, and above the roar of the engines you hear the leading rider scream out in pain.<a id="sect112-1" idref="sect112-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Your gunfire has wounded him in the hand, severing two fingers. He loses control of his machine, which swerves violently to the left, somersaults, and then bursts into flame.</p>
- <p>The incident scares the other riders sufficiently for them to pull back to a safe distance. They continue to tail the truck, but at least they are now out of range.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The muzzle of the gun belches flame, and in the close confines of the corridor the noise of its discharge is deafening. Something stabs you in the chest, and an instant later you are lying on your back, staring at one of the dim electric bulbs in the ceiling. You sense Knott moving past you, but you can no longer hear clearly, or feel anything save the numbness that has engulfed your body.</p>
- <p>Powerless to resist, you slip gently into a sleep from which you will never awaken. Sadly, your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You realize at once that the door is far too thick to be blown open by a grenade. However, a closer examination of the air vent reveals that it was once a much larger window that has recently been partially boarded over. Confident that the grenade will destroy this boarding, you wedge it into the vent, set the timer to a five-second delay, and pull the pin.</p>
- <p>'Five seconds!' you shout, and immediately Knott throws himself to the ground and covers his head. You copy his actions and wait for the grenade to detonate. It explodes with a dull boom, showering you with dust and charred pine splinters.</p>
- <p>Remember to erase this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">To continue, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a terrible pain explodes in the nape of your neck and you are thrown forward by the impact of something heavy hitting you between the shoulders. You crash to the ground face-first but feel very little as the pain quickly gives way to a chilling numbness. You have been hit in the back by the clansman's crowbar, which has severed your spinal cord.</p>
- <p>You are helpless, unable to move or defend yourself as the clansman enacts a swift but brutal revenge for the death of his dogs. Tragically, your life and your mission end here in El Paso.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bullet misses your neck by inches and buries itself in the shoulder of Marine Knott, who is beside you in the passenger seat. The force of impact nearly hurls him out of the jeep, and, as he fights to prevent himself from falling, he grabs at your jacket, wrenching your hand off the steering wheel.</p>
- <p>With a screech of tyres, the jeep veers off the freeway towards the exit ramp. The captain and Sergeant Haskell come to Knott's aid, pulling him back into the vehicle. As you regain control of the steering wheel, you find yourself ascending the ramp towards Highway 80.</p>
- <p>In your driving mirror you see the clansmen turning their bikes around: they intend to pursue you. Unable to continue along the freeway, you put your foot to the floor and make a hasty escape heading south along Highway 80.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your enemy screams and crumples as you deliver your killing blow. He hits the floor, and, as he rolls towards the tailgate, you notice a Pistol and a Knife (2) tucked into his belt. (If you wish to keep the Pistol, you discover that it contains eight rounds of 9mm ammunition.)</p>
- <p>Sergeant Haskell is recovering from his fall as you move towards the cab to try to find out what is going on. To your horror you see a bright yellow bulldozer, with its earth scoop lowered, trundling along the main street on a collision course with the truck. Captain Frankland is screaming at Knott to move the truck out of the way of the oncoming bulldozer, but the engine refuses to start. The situation is looking hopeless when suddenly, with a roar, the engine fires into life. Knott kicks the gas pedal and swerves out of the way as the bulldozer bears down. Miraculously, it misses you, rumbling past with barely inches to spare.</p>
- <p>In an attempt to escape from the town, Knott heads towards a narrow side street, but as soon as you enter, you are confronted by another hazard. Several of the houses that back on to the street have collapsed and the debris has formed a huge, uneven mound, which blocks your path. Knott, confident that the truck is capable of scaling this obstacle, shifts the gear selector into all-wheel drive and stamps his foot on the gas pedal. Amid a whine of gears, the truck accelerates towards the mountain of bricks and shattered timbers. You hit the mound at speed and lurch towards the peak, but less than five feet from the top the truck shudders to a halt.</p>
- <p>Knott and the captain both leap from the cab, desperate to clear away the debris that has jammed the front wheels. As they begin their work three clansmen come running around the corner, firing their weapons as they sprint towards you. Haskell answers them with a burst of fire that fells the leading two, and sends the survivor scurrying for cover. However, this does little to deter the attack. More clansmen are appearing by the second, and from the sound of their blood-curdling screams they intend to take no prisoners.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have a missile weapon and wish to fire at the advancing clansmen, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you choose to help the captain and Marine Knott clear away debris from the front wheels, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the ground and roll over in an attempt to get as far away from the gas pump as you can. Your swift action saves your life, for moments later the motorcycle ploughs into the pump, exploding in a ball of bright flame. A wave of searing heat washes over your back, and, as you stagger to your feet and turn to look at the fire now raging on the gas station forecourt, you break out in a cold sweat thinking how close you came to death.</p>
- <p>Uneasily you wipe your forehead with the back of your trembling hand as you turn and walk away from the crackling inferno.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin around, hardly able to believe your eyes when you see Kate Norton waving at you from a gas station on the opposite side of the freeway. In a daze you run towards her, and she towards you, and together you meet in the centre of the deserted highway, locked in an embrace that melts away all memory of the ordeal you have endured over the past two days.</p>
- <p>When at last the exhilaration of your unexpected reunion subsides, she tells you that the colony has already reached Tucson, and is safely encamped with the Tucson colony inside a stronghold they have established at the Davis-Monthan Air Force base. When you and the rest of Captain Frankland's team failed to make the Deming rendezvous, the colony continued as planned, hoping that you would join them <foreign xml:lang="fr">en route</foreign>. Gradually, as they progressed further west, their hopes faded until they accepted that you must have perished during the raid on Ciudad Juarez. But Kate refused to abandon hope. When the convoy reached Benson she insisted that she wait here in case you had been unable to find transport and were heading for Tucson on foot. Reluctantly they agreed to her request, knowing full well that there was little they could do to prevent her from staying.</p>
- <p>You ask if she has seen any clan activity during the twenty-four hours she has been here, and she says that there has been none. The freeway and the surrounding area have remained completely deserted.</p>
- <p>'It's funny,' she says, 'but since we left Lordsburg it's as if they lost interest in us.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you cast aside the body of the second dog, his handler appears at the entrance to the archway. A scrawny-faced clansman, he is dressed in a tattered denim jacket and jeans that are encrusted with grime. Seeing his dogs lying dead at your feet, he begins to howl like a maniac.</p>
- <p>'I'm gonna get you for this!' he screams, and comes running at you, wielding a crowbar in his bony hand.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>'I'm gonna get you for this!' he screams, and comes running at you, wielding a crowbar in his bony hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="618" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="618" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Skunk</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect211">You can evade the combat in the first round only: <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your engine responds and you surge ahead, avoiding Mad Dog's attack by a few feet. You glance in your mirror to see him swerve across the freeway, but his car is equipped with a supercharged V-12 engine, more powerful than your own, and within a few seconds he comes roaring alongside. As he draws level, his electric passenger window glides down and you find yourself staring at the barrel of his machine pistol.</p>
- <p>Add together your Perception skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If your total score is 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If your total is 16-20, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If it is 21 or more, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crown of your head connects with the clansman's buckle and the impact sends you crashing to the ground<ch.emdash/>lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Before you can recover your senses fully, the Mexican draws a knife and attacks you while you lie on the ground stunned.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Banderas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your condition, you are unable to use a close combat weapon until the third round of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within ten feet of the top when the rock you are grasping tears loose in your hands. Frantically you throw out your arms in an attempt to find a new hand-hold, but you are already falling backwards and your flailing hands claw only air. For a few seconds your senses are scrambled as you tumble down the rock-face, then you hit the edge of the gully and your vision becomes cloudy: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When eventually it clears you find yourself lying at the bottom of the gully, staring at the sky. Wearily you drag yourself to your feet, rub your aching limbs, then stagger towards your motorcycle. You are expecting to find little more than a twisted heap of scrap metal, so it comes as a pleasant surprise to discover that the machine is still in working order. After straightening the handlebars, the headlight, and the front wheel alignment, you are able to restart the engine with your fourth kick.</p>
- <p>You ride this wide trench until you find a suitable place, on the far side of the rockfalls to make your exit. The ascent is accomplished without difficulty, but as you clear the crest of the gully and bring your motorcycle to a stop, you notice something that makes you break out in a cold sweat.</p>
- <p>From the eastern end of the gully a cloud of dust is approaching. It is over a mile distant, but you can tell at once that it is being kicked up by a motorcycle. You stare at the approaching machine and, although you cannot see the rider, you know that it is the assassin. Chilled by his proximity, you wind back the throttle and gun your bike along the bumpy mountain road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the team are preparing to leave, the captain briefs you on the plan of attack. 'Once we're on the inside and the convoy arrives, we've got to place the mines as quickly as possible in case they decide to off-load the explosives. From now on we stick together. Move quickly on my command and no firing unless it's absolutely unavoidable. Also, keep your eyes peeled for a suitable escape vehicle. We'll need to find one before we set the mines. We've got only five minutes to make our getaway, and I sure don't want to be around when those trucks go up. There'll not be a whole lot left o' this place once those mines explode.'</p>
- <p>After the briefing, you follow the captain in single file as he leads the team through a series of interconnecting alleys that takes you to the race track's west gate. Most of the clansmen are congregated at the front of the track, around the east gate, making it easy for you to gain access to the track at the rear without being seen.</p>
- <p>Once inside, you make your way through the now-empty kennels and administration blocks, to a position opposite the track itself. Here you catch a glimpse of your old enemy<ch.emdash/>Mad Dog Michigan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously you wipe your sweaty palms on the front of your T-shirt before checking to see that there is a live round in the breach of your rifle. Then, once you are sure that your equipment is secure, you tense yourself to begin this dangerous run.</p>
- <p>Slowly you count down from five and, the moment your count is complete, you leap to your feet and race up the steps. As you clear the crater, you mark your destination and sprint towards it, whilst simultaneously covering yourself by firing your rifle at the sniper's position.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. To this total add 1 point for every round you choose to fire from your gun (minimum: one round; maximum: three rounds).</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retrieve your Backpack from the truck and rummage through the contents for your binoculars. It takes you a few moments to focus your lenses on the sign, but when you do, you see that it says: Mimbres<ch.emdash/>9 Miles.</p>
- <p>You inform the captain then bring your glasses to bear on the town. At once you see why he has halted the truck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232"><link-text>Turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the shelves, but find little more than bottled fruit juices and preserved foodstuffs. Knott reaches for a jar of pickled cucumbers that is illuminated by the sunlight streaming through the hole in the wall. As his hand closes upon the lid, another gunshot echoes from the forest and the jar explodes, spraying you both with glass and pulped vegetable: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Stunned by the bullet's effect, you fall towards the door and fumble with the wooden latch. Now that you know the sniper can see you through the jagged hole, you are anxious to leave the store room before he fires again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334"><link-text>Turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Marine Knott takes the wheel with the captain riding beside him in the cab. Meanwhile, you and the sergeant climb in the back and take up firing positions at the tailgate. Steadily Knott drives towards Columbus, keeping the speed down to avoid arousing too much suspicion. You are sixty yards from the barricade when the captain shouts through the cab partition: 'Hold on men<ch.emdash/>we're going in!'</p>
- <p>You exchange an anxious glance with Sergeant Haskell as the engine roars and the truck picks up speed.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If the number is 4-6, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If it is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the office by a rear door that opens on to a parking lot. Here you find Marine Knott. He has discovered a wrecked US mail truck, and although the engine and tyres are beyond repair, he has been able to siphon more than a gallon of gasolene from its fuel tank. You congratulate him on his find, and together you return to the furniture store to meet up with Frankland and Haskell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make the jump with a few feet to spare, but, barely seconds after landing, a handful of clansmen pour from the roof door and begin to fire at the team. Bullets smack into the brickwork and ricochet off the parapet, forcing you to dive for cover.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you have a missile weapon and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you do not possess a gun, do not have sufficient ammunition, or do not wish to use your gun, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few moments, Captain Frankland assesses the situation in silence. Then he turns to Sergeant Haskell and says: 'Follow me, sergeant, I'll take the one on the left, you take the one on the right. Is that understood?' Sergeant Haskell acknowledges the order as he unsheathes his own combat knife.</p>
- <p>'You two stay here,' says Frankland, addressing you and Marine Knott. 'As soon as we've dealt with the sentries you follow us, OK?'</p>
- <p>You watch expectantly as Frankland and Haskell creep up on the two unwary clansmen. Swiftly they silence them, then they signal to you to help them dispose of the bodies. After the two clansmen have been consigned to the Rio Grande, you check your equipment then follow the others as they hurry away from the walkway area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your pistol and take aim at the assassin's chest as he takes up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places these bulky lenses to his visor and begins to search the surrounding rooftops. It seems a curious thing to do as the buildings are very close: surely he does not need binoculars to be able to see if anyone is standing on top of them?</p>
- <p>He lowers the lenses and scans the ground floor windows of the courthouse, and a sudden chill stabs your heart as you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, enhanced-resolution, image intensifiers. He sees you and immediately you snatch the trigger, fearful that you have left your shot too late.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you raise your pistol, cupped in both hands, ignoring the bullets that are whistling past as you take aim at the clan commander. For a brief instant, his eyes widen with shock when he sees the muzzle of your Beretta pointing directly at his chest. He starts to pull away, but before he can take cover, you squeeze off your first shot.</p>
- <p>Add together you Shooting skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain cocks his machine pistol and gets ready to open fire. 'OK, I'm gonna see if I can flush this Yankee out,' he says vehemently. 'When I start firin', you see if you can pinpoint where he is.'</p>
- <p>You nod in agreement and get ready to glance around the tailgate the instant the captain opens fire.</p>
- <p>'Let's do it!' he says, as he rises above the cover of the truck and squeezes off a burst of automatic fire. The noise of his gun drowns out the sniper's shot, but within a second of him breaking cover, Frankland is hit. With the machine pistol still chattering in his hands, he falls backwards and crashes to the ground, the assassin's bullet lodged deep in his skull.</p>
- <p>The shock of Frankland's death, following so closely after Sergeant Haskell's, hits you like an icy shower. You cower behind the truck, shivering with fear, afraid that you will be next. For a terrible moment, the fear consumes you, and all you want to do is run as far away and as fast as you can. Despite Knott's pleas to stay where you are, you scramble to your feet and stumble towards the woods. In your haste, you trip and fall, grazing your hands and knees on the flint-sharp shale: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Inadvertently, your fall saves your life. A shot passes over your head a second after you stumble, missing you by a hand's breadth. The imminent danger clears your mind and you race towards the trees with a determination to survive. Knott encourages you to increase your speed and you pray that you will reach cover before the sniper has a chance to slip another round into the breech of his rifle.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. [Note: If Your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill total.]</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If your total score is 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If it is 16-19, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets ricochet off the trash can, their sharp clangour making your ears ring. The firing continues for several seconds until you hear a squeal of tyres. followed by a loud metallic crash. A careful glance over the rim reveals that the last biker and his machine have finally met their doom.</p>
- <p>As you climb out of the trash can and walk away from the bridge, you hear Captain Frankland ordering everyone back to the truck. 'This ain't the last we've seen of Mad Dog's men,' he says, looking to the west in the direction of Ciudad Juarez. 'We'd best keep moving while we're ahead. We've made good progress, but we've still got about 100 miles to cover before we reach Deming.'</p>
- <p>He climbs into the cab beside Marine Knott, while you and the sergeant settle down in the rear of the truck and try to make yourselves comfortable. You leave the town, heading north, following the remains of a highway that promises to take you back across the border and on to your rendezvous with the colony. A few miles outside the town, the highway crosses a lake by means of a narrow causeway. The first few rays of the dawn sun are lightening the eastern sky, and, as you stare across the lonely landscape, you find yourself thinking of Kate and the colony.</p>
- <p>'If all goes well, we'll reach Deming a few hours before noon,' says Haskell, studying a map by the light of a tiny bulb in a wire cage bolted to the rear of the cab. Then he slips the map inside his combat jacket, switches off the light, and curls up on the floor to sleep. You too are feeling very tired, so you decide to follow Haskell's example and try, despite the bumpy ride, to snatch a few hours' much-needed rest.</p>
- <p>Before you sleep you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">To continue, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gently you coax the bike's front wheel over the edge of the steep gully. Then, as it tips forward and gathers speed, you work at the clutch and front brake levers to keep the machine upright and under control. The descent is fast and exciting until you hit a patch of loose shale and feel the front wheel juddering sideways. Then, what moments before was controlled and exhilarating, suddenly becomes a terrifying free-fall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If your total score 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If your total is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tracks lead to a drug store at the centre of the town. It looks as if Kate parked your car here and went inside the store, for there are two lines of foot- prints in the dust, running from the street to the front door.</p>
- <p>The others wait in the truck while you enter the store. Following in Kate's footsteps, you arrive at some empty places on the store's shelves. She was after medical supplies, although she was selective about what she took. The shelves still hold a few medicines and other medical supplies<ch.emdash/>enough for two Medi- kit units. (If you wish to keep these, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Having satisfied your curiosity, you go back to the truck and tell the others what you have found. Captain Frankland is anxious to reach Lordsburg before dark, so he orders Knott to turn the truck around and head back to Interstate 10.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the darkness to best advantage, you follow a wide avenue that leads away from the park. The once-grand buildings that line the street show signs of having been looted recently. The driveways and gardens are littered with broken furniture and furnishings, hurled from the windows of plush, penthouse suites.</p>
- <p>In the distance you see yellow, flickering lights, and, as you draw nearer, you hear the raucous cheers and laughter of drunken clansmen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to continue along the avenue, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you prefer to avoid the clansmen by leaving the avenue and heading south, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the trapdoor and stare down the flight of wooden steps into the darkness below. Although you cannot see or hear anything, you sense that someone is there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to assure whoever is hiding below that you mean them no harm, and that all you wish to do is talk with them, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you prefer to demand that they throw down their weapons and come out with their hands up, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman crashes back against the truck, hits his head, and falls to the ground in a dazed heap. Although you are bruised by the collision, you are still able to remain on your feet and seize the initiative. Half-concussed, the leather-jacketed Mexican fumbles blindly for his bolstered pistol, but before he can draw and fire it, a well-placed kick to the side of his head knocks him out cold.</p>
- <p>Quickly you drag his body under the truck and prop him out of sight behind the rear wheels, before turning your attention to the vehicle's fuel tank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An agonizing pain erupts in the middle of your forehead. You have been hit by your enemy's bullet and the impact lifts you off your feet and sends you sprawling against the courthouse wall. The pain disappears to be replaced by a numbness that darkens your vision and bleeds the last ounce of strength from your unfeeling limbs. An overwhelming urge to sleep assails your senses, and, although you fight to stay awake, it is a fight you have no hope of winning.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here at Tombstone, Arizona.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist the ignition key and pump the gas pedal; you feel a surge of relief when you hear the jeep's sturdy engine growl throatily. A flick of a switch brings the headlights to life and then you are off, accelerating along a narrow street opposite the bus depot that leads to the west side of town.</p>
- <p>Most of Mad Dog's clansmen are concentrated around the block of buildings where the truck was discovered, but there are some, most notably the Detroit Lions' scouts, who have taken up lookout positions in other parts of the town. You pass two or three of them on your way through Lordsburg, yet they seem to ignore you. The jeep<ch.emdash/>with its clan markings<ch.emdash/>and the darkness, enable you to pass them without challenge.</p>
- <p>It is not until you begin your approach to the access ramp of Interstate 10 that you encounter any problem. Soon after your truck was found, Mad Dog despatched a unit of scouts in a pick-up to guard the freeway ramp, just in case. It was a smart move. When the scouts see you approaching, they switch on a spotlight mounted on the roof of the pick-up, above the driver's seat, and catch you in its beam. When a radio call confirms that you are not what you seem, they accelerate towards you in an attempt to run you off the road.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If your total score is 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If it is 4-7, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansmen are pointing their spotlight at the jeep's windscreen, effectively blinding Captain Frankland. Valiantly he struggles to control the vehicle, but he is fractionally too slow to avoid the truck completely and it clips the rear wheel arch as it flashes past.</p>
- <p>You are shaken and bruised (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) by the collision, and, as you fight to bring the heavy gun to bear on the pick-up, you swing too far and your first burst misses by several yards. With a screech of tyres, the pick-up completes a spectacular 180-degree turn and comes racing back towards the jeep. This time you are ready for them. They are thirty yards away when you draw back the cocking lever and open fire.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The heavy-calibre rounds riddle the engine and tear the cab to shreds.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="616" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="616" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The heavy-calibre rounds riddle the engine and tear the cab to shreds. The truck starts to skid, and then there is a tremendous bang as the fuel tank explodes. As the captain accelerates away on to the freeway you watch in silence as a huge ball of billowing orange flame engulfs the remains of the truck and its passengers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon arcs towards the clansman, but your aim is poor and it misses him by an arm's length. Alerted by the sound of it hitting the steps, he immediately screams a warning to the guards on the bridge.</p>
- <p>'What the<ch.ellips/>' hisses the captain, his eyes wild with anger and fear as he turns to face the shouting Mexican. Then, in the next instant, all hell breaks loose.</p>
- <p>The clansmen who are guarding the toll bridge rush to their searchlights and train them on the walkway entrance. Within seconds the whole area is bathed in white light, revealing the team and the bodies of the two dead clan sentries. Swiftly the area is surrounded by the enemy, who open fire mercilessly. Unable to find cover or escape from this deadly ambush, all four of you fall victim to the clansmen's guns.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here on the banks of the Rio Grande.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is unlocked. Carefully you lift the latch and push it open, and, as the light from the corridor illuminates the darkness within, you see that the room contains two bunk beds and a few other pieces of plain pine furniture. Children's toys, lovingly crafted from wood and bone, line the shelves. You are closing the door when you notice a wooden whistle lying on the top of a clothes trunk.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this <typ class="item">Whistle</typ>, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to investigate the door on the opposite side of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you decide to investigate the door at the end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clan commander's bullets hit you in the side, sending you rolling backwards to crash against the cab. You feel no pain, for two of the seven rounds that hit you pierced your heart. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Columbus.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You select a plum-sized chunk of rubble from the bottom of the ditch and whisper to Knott to get ready to make a dash for the freeway. Then you draw back your arm and hurl the rock away to your right, beyond the clansmen's position, and wait for it to hit the ground.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If the number you have picked is 0-5, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If the number is 6-9, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull back the slide of your Beretta just far enough to check that there is a bullet in the breach, then you tense yourself in preparation for this dangerous run.</p>
- <p>Slowly you count down from five and, the moment your count is complete, you leap to your feet and race up the steps. As you clear the crater, you mark your destination and sprint towards it, whilst simultaneously covering yourself by firing your pistol at the sniper's position.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. To this total add 1 point for every round you choose to fire from your pistol (minimum: one round; maximum: eight rounds).</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Knott's fist banging repeatedly against the inside of the cab, draws all three of you towards its tiny window. Through the grimy glass you see him pointing at a town on the road ahead, its battered buildings illuminated by the truck's headlights. 'Vado de Piedra!' he shouts. 'Better get ready in case it's a clan town.'</p>
- <p>'If you see any clansmen, you just keep drivin',' replies Captain Frankland. 'If the town's empty, find somewhere safe and then stop the truck. Is that clear?'</p>
- <p>'Yessir!' Knott replies.</p>
- <p>As the dust-blown stores and houses of the derelict Mexican town trail away behind the truck, it becomes obvious that the place is deserted. Knott arrives at the same conclusion and decreases speed as he prepares to turn off the main highway. The truck crosses a bridge then swings to the right and stops beside a store that lost its roof long ago.</p>
- <p>'They're still with us, captain,' said Haskell, staring across the dry river bed at the group of headlights, as the bikers enter the town.</p>
- <p>'Not for long,' Frankland growls, his voice harsh and determined. 'Spread out and find some cover. We'll take 'em as they come over the bridge.'</p>
- <p>Quickly you move away from the truck and scour the darkness, straining your eyes to find a place to hide that also has an unobstructed view of the bridge. You can see only two such places, both far from ideal. One is a gas pump, standing on the forecourt of a gas station directly opposite the bridge: the other is an industrial trash can, abandoned at the side of the bridge's exit ramp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to take cover behind the gas pump, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you decide to place yourself inside the trash can, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect150-1-foot" idref="sect150-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few seconds you stand entranced, not knowing for sure whether you are dead or alive.<a id="sect150-1" idref="sect150-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Then, as the warm breeze clears the lingering gun smoke, you see the body of the assassin lying motionless beside the courthouse wall. You are filled with a great sense of relief, as if a huge weight has been lifted from your shoulders. Then the shock of your encounter takes hold of your body and you begin to shiver uncontrollably. You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>With grim curiosity you move forward to search the body. You pull off his helmet and stare at the face of this killer. At once you recognize the cruel, angular features: he is Helmut Varken, a top HAVOC assassin who achieved infamy on 1 May, 2008 when he assassinated both the President of the United States, and the General Secretary of the Supreme Soviet at an emergency summit meeting in Rome. HAVOC were proud of his ignoble feat, and when by chance they leaked his identity, his photograph appeared on every television screen and on the front page of every newspaper around the world. You were only eight years old at the time, but the image of his face became synonymous with the evil that HAVOC represented, and it etched itself indelibly upon your mind.</p>
- <p>As your pulse returns to normal, you begin to search his bloodstained body. You are disappointed to find that his air-con suit has been irreparably damaged, but you discover more than enough useful items to compensate for the loss:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Rifle (containing twenty-two rounds of 7.62mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Pistol (containing ten rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Twenty rounds of spare 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Fifteen rounds of spare 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Combat Viewer</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tear Gas Grenade</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">CB Radio</typ></li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Enough food for three Meals</li>
- <li>Enough medical supplies for eight Medi-kit units</li>
- <li>Enough water for three Drinks</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Map</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>After finishing your search, you leave the courthouse and commandeer Varken's motorcycle. You are anxious to reach Tucson as quickly as you can, so you kick start the machine and speed away from Tombstone, heading north on Highway 80.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you descend the fire escape into the alley below, seconds before a group of clansmen turn the corner and come running towards you. Fortunately, they are without torches and in their haste they fail to notice the four of you hiding in the shadows as they make their way around to the rear of the building.</p>
- <p>The moment they have gone, the captain leads you along a covered walkway that ends at a rotunda. Opposite this paved concourse is the entrance to a bus depot, and parked close by is a US army jeep containing two clansmen. Judging by the long-horned skull emblazoned on the vehicle's side, they are members of the Texan clan known as the Mavericks.</p>
- <p>'There's our ticket outta here,' says Captain Frankland. Silently he draws his knife and holds it to his cheek as he asks for a volunteer to help him commandeer the jeep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to volunteer to ambush the two Mavericks, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you do not wish to volunteer, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once you wipe away the thick layer of dust that blankets every piece of the merchandise in this store, you realize that it is stocked with several items that may prove useful during your ride to Tucson.</p>
- <p>You collect together an armful of goods and lay them out by the door before choosing which ones to keep. You have discovered the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Rifle</li>
- <li>Shotgun</li>
- <li>Six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Twelve rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li>Hunting Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Bowie Knife (3)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Fishing Tackle</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Blanket</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">To continue, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pick up a steel-framed chair and hurl it at the window. The glass shatters with a deafening crash, leaving a jagged hole through which to escape. Using the barrel of your gun, hastily you clear away the knife-sharp slivers protruding from the window frame before starting to climb through to the fire escape.</p>
- <p>You can ill afford the delay. You are half-way through the frame when the clansman and his bloodhound burst into the room.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If your total score is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If it is 5-8, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">It it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You halt your bike at the side of the street and begin to rummage through your Backpack for the can of oil. The filter cap is so hot it has expanded and jammed, forcing you to wait for the engine to cool before you can replenish the oil. During your wait you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>At length you are able to free the cap and pour in the oil. You are attempting to restart it when suddenly you see an all-too-familiar dust cloud approaching the town from the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect155-1-foot" idref="sect155-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire, hitting the Angelino clansman in the side as he roars past your hiding place, and sending him tumbling from his machine to hit the ground in a cloud of dust.<a id="sect155-1" idref="sect155-1-foot" class="footnote" /> It is not until the dust settles and your pulse slows that you realize just how close you came to being killed.</p>
- <p>Seven neat indentations run in a line across the trash can, marking the place where the biker's machine pistol bullets ricocheted off the thick steel plate. They are barely an inch below the top of the rim. Had he aimed a fraction higher, the bullets would have hit you for sure.</p>
- <p>Thinking of how close you came to death makes you break out in a cold sweat. Uneasily you wipe your forehead with the back of your trembling hand as you climb out of the trash can and walk away from the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you are trying to think of an alternative power source, you check inside the truck's cab and discover that it does not have automatic transmission: it has a manual, four-wheel drive system.</p>
- <p>'I think I may have the answer to our problem,' you say, and proceed to explain your plan to the others. 'If we can get this truck moving, we might just be able to shove-start it, using the manual gears.'</p>
- <p>The others look sceptical but they are willing to give you the benefit of the doubt, especially as they can offer no alternative plan. With considerable effort, you manage to manhandle the pick-up on to the highway. Knott is the lightest and so he is chosen to steer the truck while the others, yourself included, push it as fast as you can. Once it has built up a reasonable speed, Knott engages high gear and releases the clutch pedal in the hope that the electrical power generated by the computerized alternator will be sufficient to spark the engine. The plan is not an instant success, but on the fifth attempt the power is sufficient to bring the engine coughing and spluttering back to life.</p>
- <p>Owing to the sheer physical effort required to start the engine in this manner, you must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clan commander's bullets punch a neat line of holes across the tailgate, barely inches above the place where you are lying. Before he can fire a second burst beneath the first, Sergeant Haskell hits him with a single shot to the head, killing him instantly.</p>
- <p>Realization of his death passes like a shock wave through the other clansmen, causing them to abort their attack and fall back. A few stop long enough to pick up and bear his lifeless body away from the street.</p>
- <p>While there is a lull in the firing, you seize the chance to help Knott and Captain Frankland clear away the debris that is blocking your escape. A thick, wooden pole, which once supported overhead electricity cables in this part of town, is jammed between the wheel and the truck's front fender. With your help they are at last able to shift it. Knott returns to the cab and starts the engine first time. Then, as he brings the truck over the mound, you and the captain leap on to the tailgate and pull yourselves aboard.</p>
- <p>The street ends at a piece of wasteland but a few hundred yards beyond it lies a highway running east to west. The captain peers through the cab's partition window and gives an ironic laugh when he sees the highway.</p>
- <p>'Make for that road and head west,' he commands, and Knott obeys. Then he turns to the sergeant and says, 'It looks like you're finally outvoted, Haskell. Seems we're on our way to Mimbres.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By keeping strictly to alleys and side streets you are able to make your way deep into the heart of the city, avoiding the numerous clan patrols. At length you reach the banks of the Rio Grande and follow the river westwards towards your rendezvous destination. Your early encounters with Mad Dog's men have delayed you and now, as you hurry along the walkways and plazas bordering the river, you are fearful that you will arrive too late to join the others. In your haste you become less cautious and take risks that might prove dangerous.</p>
- <p>You are hurrying along a walled sidewalk when you catch sight of the Stanton Street Toll Bridge less than 400 yards away. You are confident that it is the right bridge because it is the only one still intact. A glance at your wristwatch reveals that you have less than ten minutes to spare. You are about to break into a run when suddenly you hear a noise behind you that makes you freeze: it is the sound of a pistol being cocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen steps before the man senses your approach. For a moment you make eye contact, then he dashes away from the trail and runs deeper into the forest. Rather than let him get away, you instruct Knott to keep up with you as you give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to persuade the family to come with you to Tucson, to join up with your colony and make a new start in California, but they dismiss your request out of hand. 'I've told you: we can look after ourselves,' retorts Steve, the bearded brother. 'All we want is to be left alone.'</p>
- <p>Then his wife appears at the door to the corridor and calls out: 'There's another one movin' around outside.'</p>
- <p>Steve looks worried. He checks the magazine of his pistol, cocks the slide, and then points it in your direction. 'OK, you two,' he says, his voice wavering. 'You're leaving here right now.'</p>
- <p>Knott tries to reason with him, telling him that he is sentencing you both to certain death by forcing you outside to face the sniper, but his pleas fall on deaf ears. 'No one invited you here,' Steve spits. 'If you an' that guy outside have got a problem, it's your problem not ours. We don't want no part of it, is that clear?'</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you allow yourselves to he escorted along a corridor that leads to the reinforced front door. The bolts are drawn and the door is thrown open. 'Get out!' screams Steve, and you feel his hands thrust against your back, propelling you into the blinding glare of the sunlight. Knott soon follows, and then come your weapons, clattering on the beaten earth floor of the crater.</p>
- <p>As you stoop to retrieve your guns, the heavy door slams shut. The sound is echoed immediately by another that chills your blood: the sharp crack of a high-velocity rifle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you fight to regain control of your roadster as it slews off the freeway and skids towards a crash barrier. With a numbing jolt, the car scrapes along the moulded steel barrier for more than 200 yards before you are able to steer it back on to the freeway. The impact has crushed your front fender and torn a jagged hole in the driver's door, which has left your arm badly bloodied: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to the ground and roll over, but you cannot help but let out a yelp of pain as you gash your knees and shoulders on the sharp rubble (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Marine Knott lands beside you as the beam of torchlight passes over your body. For a few seconds it hovers nearby, then it returns to bathe you both in its revealing glare.</p>
- <p>An angry shout is followed by a burst of gunfire and the sound of dogs barking. Bullets powder the rock near your hands. 'Run for it!' you hiss. 'We've been seen.'</p>
- <p>Ignoring the stinging pain of your wounds, you rise to your feet and sprint towards the darkness. Knott disappears to your left just seconds before you reach the freeway arch. You continue to run and are about to emerge from beneath the elevated freeway when the sound of growling stops you dead in your tracks. Ahead two squat shadows move purposefully towards you. You raise your gun but hesitate to pull the trigger for fear of attracting more of the enemy. Your moment's hesitation is seen as a sign of weakness, and the two fighting dogs bound forwards instantly flinging themselves at your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pit Bull Terriers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and ferocity of their attack, you cannot make use of a close combat weapon until the beginning of the second round of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus all your attention on your enemy, for he is a formidable opponent. He presents a difficult target: he is partially hidden behind the brick pillar of a hardware store, and his black suit merges easily with the shadows.</p>
- <p>Despite these disadvantages, you know that this may be your only chance to put an end to his pursuit and avenge the lives of your three dead comrades.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If the gun you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fear that Knott has somehow tripped an alarm vanishes as you realize that the siren is coming from the main entrance. It is announcing the arrival of the explosives convoy. Four trucks, each one carpeted in a layer of thick, red, desert dust, roar through the east gate and screech to a halt. You watch tensely as Mad Dog Michigan and one other, a Mexican whom you assume to be Santiago, run across to the vehicles and inspect their cargoes. Having satisfied themselves that all is in order, they proceed to berate the drivers for their poor timekeeping.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Four trucks roar through the east gate and screech to a halt.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="573" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="573" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Patiently the captain watches the proceedings. When Mad Dog and his entourage finally leave the trucks and the cowering drivers, and walk towards the main gate, he tells you and Haskell to prepare to move. Gradually the crowds of clansmen who have gathered around the trucks disperse, and the captain gives the order to go: 'OK, let's do it!'</p>
- <p>The explosives convoy comprises four trucks parked in a line near the centre of the race track. Sergeant Haskell opts for the two rearmost vehicles on which to plant his mines, leaving the first and second trucks for you and the captain to deal with. The captain allows you to choose your target.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to approach the first vehicle, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you decide to target the second truck, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift the latch and gently push the door but it does not move. At first you think that it must be locked from the inside, but then you notice that it fits poorly in its rough-hewn timber frame, and realize that it is simply sticking. A sharp kick soon cures it.</p>
- <p>Inside you discover a large bed, constructed of pine and covered with a counter pane of rabbit fur. An assortment of male and female clothing hangs from a rail at the foot of the bed, and a handful of faded family photographs stands on a table beside it. You search a cupboard behind the door and discover a <typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ> and a <typ class="item">Screwdriver</typ>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to investigate the door on the opposite side of the window, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you decide to examine the door at the end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman descends the steps with a bow-legged horseman's gait. He is exactly half-way down when he sees the captain kneeling over the body of a dead clan sentry. The sight freezes him in mid-step and his eyes widen with shocked surprise. As he opens his mouth to scream, you draw back your arm and hurl your weapon at his barrel-like chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the west, the rockfall is far less steep and you have no difficulty descending to the edge of the gully. With the dust cloud growing nearer by the second, you creep down the final slope towards your motorcycle as fast as you dare. You are expecting to find little more than a twisted heap of scrap metal, so it comes as a welcome surprise to discover that the machine is still in working order. After straightening the handlebars and the front wheel alignment, you are able to restart the engine and attempt to ride it away.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first you are shocked that Captain Frankland and Sergeant Haskell are firing at you. But, as the first wave of bullets kicks up the dust on the highway, your natural instinct for self-preservation takes over.</p>
- <p>The only cover is a shallow gully that runs alongside the highway, and immediately you steer towards it. Another burst of fire follows you: this time the bullets strike home, slamming into the front of the motorcycle and destroying the tyre. As you leave the highway you lose control of the machine, and the last thing you are aware of are the bars twisting in your hands: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When you regain consciousness, you are lying in the back of the truck with the captain and the sergeant standing over you. Your head aches viciously, but apart from a slight concussion and a massive bruise on the left side of your skull, your body has survived the crash with little injury.</p>
- <p>Marine Knott survived the crash without suffering any harm, and has been busy fitting the ignition unit to the truck. Now that the others are sure that you are all right, they check one last time that the engine is running smoothly and then continue north along Highway 81.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In silence, the three of you busy yourselves with the grim task of burying Sergeant Haskell's body in the loose shale that borders this part of the highway. When the task is complete, the captain marks his grave with a cross and says a few words in honour of the memory of this brave soldier who died in the course of duty.</p>
- <p>You and the captain leave Knott to pay his last respects and walk back to the pick-up to consider your next course of action. Mad Dog Michigan is known to have snipers at his disposal, former HAVOC assassins who operated under him in the years before 'The Day'. If it was one of those professionals who killed Haskell, the chances are that he will not stop until he has finished you all off.</p>
- <p>'We've gotta keep moving if we're to stay out of range of this assassin,' says Captain Frankland, as he stares across the landscape. 'I've had experience of these murderers in the past. They're totally ruthless and totally professional.'</p>
- <p>Then, as if in answer to his words and your fears, another gunshot echoes across the pine-clad mountains.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If the number is 4-9, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the front of the truck uninjured and start to help Frankland and Knott clear away the debris that is blocking your escape. A thick, wooden pole, which once supported overhead electricity cables in this part of town, is jammed between the wheel and the truck's front fender. With your help, they are at last able to shift it and Knott braves the gunfire to climb into the cab. The engine starts first time, and as he brings the truck over the mound, you and the captain leap on to the tailgate and pull yourselves aboard.</p>
- <p>The street ends at a piece of wasteland, but a few hundred yards beyond it lies a highway running east to west. The captain peers through the cab's partition window and gives a harsh laugh when he sees the highway.</p>
- <p>'Make for that road and head west,' he commands, and Knott obeys. Then he turns to the sergeant and says, 'It looks like you're finally outvoted, Haskell. Seems we're on our way to Mimbres after all.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the corridor you find a closet with a window that overlooks the main street. From here you observe the clan rider bring his motorcycle to a halt at the edge of the town. He is wearing a close- fitting black leather riding suit, a full-face black crash helmet, and is sporting a rig of combat equipment that makes him look like a futuristic space warrior.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Slowly he climbs off his machine, pausing briefly to adjust the controls of his air-conditioned riding suit.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="557" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="557" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Slowly he climbs off his machine, pausing briefly to adjust the controls of his air-conditioned riding suit. Then he unsheathes a scoped rifle from his saddle holster and advances along the main street, using the shadowy doorways of the stores and offices to cover his approach. He is thirty yards away, on the opposite side of the street, when he stops to select an orange-tipped bullet from a pouch at his hip. You watch with fearful anticipation as he presses the round into the breach of his rifle, raises the weapon to his shoulder, and takes aim at your motorcycle. There is a sharp crack, followed by a roaring boom as the incendiary round ignites and explodes the fuel tank.</p>
- <p>With pounding heart you watch as coolly he lowers his rifle and proceeds to reload it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to attempt to shoot the assassin while he is busy reloading his rifle, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you have insufficient ammunition, or if you choose not to fire at the assassin, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a much-practised movement, you thumb off the safety catch and bring your pistol to bear on the biker. You start to squeeze the trigger just as the muzzle levels off at a spot two feet above the motorcycle's blazing headlight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With nerves on edge you wait a full minute before you chance a glance out of the window. The assassin is nowhere to be seen, and you are gripped by the fear that he may by now have gained access to the courthouse. Cautiously you peer into the passage outside, then through the banisters at the entrance and lobby, but all are empty.</p>
- <p>You decide to escape from the courthouse while you can. The passage leads to a staircase, at the bottom of which is a fire exit. Through a crack in the door you can see that the yard outside is empty, so you push open the locking bar and leave. You have taken only a few steps away from the door when the assassin comes rushing around the corner of the courthouse with his rifle in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess a missile weapon and sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Knott acts as lookout while you take a look inside the cab. You find nothing of use, even the ignition key is missing, so you abandon the search and hurry to the rear of the truck. The doors are unlocked and inside you discover several open-topped boxes containing the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for five Meals</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Blanket</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">File</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Air Pump</typ></li>
- <li>Enough water for three Drinks</li>
- <li>Bandages and surgical tape, sufficient enough for two Medi-kit units</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Having satisfied your curiosity, you leave the truck and motion to Marine Knott to continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun has disappeared behind the mountains and dusk is turning to darkness when you reach the small town of Elfrida. It was once the centre of a close rural community, but now it is no more than a sorry collection of wind-damaged stores and cabins straddling the stream. Aching with fatigue, and the pain of the minor injuries which you have sustained during your flight from the assassin, you decide to investigate the little town and rest there awhile.</p>
- <p>A derelict diner with a cellar offers the best place for shelter. Attempting to reach Tucson, alone and in the dark, does not strike you as a good idea, so you decide to spend the night here in the cellar and continue tomorrow at first light. Worried that the assassin may still be on your trail, you set about barricading the cellar door. Only when you are sure that he could not possibly enter without waking you, do you settle down for some much-needed sleep.</p>
- <p>Before you sleep you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">To continue, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb on to the jeep and aim a blow at the back of the clansman's head. However, your approach is noisy and he half-turns before you land your blow. The sight of your raised fist galvanizes him into action, and he turns aside your arm with the edge of his hand.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The clansman half-turns before you land your blow.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="594" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="594" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Exxon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain in the first round of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If the combat lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your vote carries the decision to detour Columbus by a majority of three to one. 'OK men, that decides it,' says Captain Frankland. 'We avoid Columbus an' take a detour on Highway 9.'</p>
- <p>'I think we'd better get going right away, sir,' says Knott, uneasily. 'Looks like more o' Mad Dog's boys are headin' this way.' He points along the highway at an ominous column of dust that is approaching from the south.</p>
- <p>'Hell!' spits Frankland. 'That's all we need. Mount up, men. We ain't got the time to party with those punks.'</p>
- <p>Marine Knott takes the wheel with the captain riding beside him in the cab. Meanwhile, you and the sergeant climb in the back and take up firing positions at the tailgate. As the truck starts to move, you watch anxiously as the column of dust draws closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave behind the blazing wreckage as you speed away from Lordsburg on Interstate 10. You are expecting to be followed, yet, as the town slowly vanishes into the night, there is no sign of a clan pursuit.</p>
- <p>You cover fifteen miles, reaching the intersection with Highway 80, when the jeep runs out of fuel. You let it cruise to the side of the freeway. As soon as you stop, Captain Frankland unhooks a large fuel can that is strapped to the rear of the jeep and shakes it.</p>
- <p>'There's about two gallons in this,' he says, as he flicks open the cap and pours the contents into the jeep's empty tank. 'It's not going to get us very far.'</p>
-
- <p>As the captain pours the last of the spare gas into the jeep suddenly you discover why you were not followed out of Lordsburg.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach for your gun but a gruff voice bellows: 'Hold it right there!'</p>
- <p>The clansman stands silhouetted in the doorway, as his bloodhound comes loping across the desk towards you. Desperately you throw yourself out of the window before he can raise and fire a gun. Your swift action undoubtedly saves your life, for the Angelino has taped his torch to the barrel of his machine pistol, which is already aimed at your chest. As you make your move, he pulls the trigger, spraying the window with a deadly hail of lead. The frame is ripped to pieces yet none of the bullets find their mark.</p>
- <p>An iron fire-escape platform breaks your fall, but not without injury. Its surface is littered with glass and you suffer several minor cuts to your hands and knees<ch.emdash/>lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Galvanized by the shock of coming so close to death, you ignore the cuts and stagger down the fire escape as quickly as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are relieved to discover that you are carrying a pack of water purification tablets.</p>
- <p>If you wish to do so, you may refill your canteen at the cost of 1 Medi-kit unit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">To continue, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In this crucial moment between life and death, you are no longer able to think rationally. Your actions are pure reflex and, as you raise your gun to fire, everything seems to be happening in slow motion. For a fleeting moment you feel super-aware, something that the fighters at the OK Corral must have experienced in the first few seconds of their savage encounter. Then all hell breaks loose as your guns spit fire simultaneously.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth and Shooting skill scores. To this total, add you current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If your total score is 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you total is 21 or more, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you scramble to your feet and throw yourself out of the path of the oncoming biker as he guns his machine maniacally straight at the gas pump.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If your total score is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The temperature continues to rise as the truck makes its way along the remains of Highway 81, across a vast and spectacular landscape. It is nearly noon when you reach a winding, steep-sided canyon<ch.emdash/>part of the great continental divide. Its multi-banded strata of rocks provide a dramatic splash of colour in this sun-bleached mountain wasteland.</p>
- <p>'The colony should be in Deming about now,' says the Captain, glancing at his wristwatch. 'When we reach the Interstate, we'll stop and wait for them there. No sense travelling in this heat if we can help it.'</p>
- <p>He has barely finished talking when there is a loud bang. The floor shudders, then the engine starts to cough and splutter. Knott groans loudly, fearing the worst, and desperately pumps the gas pedal to keep the engine from stalling. For half a mile the truck lurches along the highway like a drunken kangaroo, until the engine utters its last cough and stops.</p>
- <p>An examination of the engine soon reveals the problem<ch.emdash/>a cracked electronic ignition unit. Knott recalls seeing one of these lying on a workbench back at the Hachita gas station, and curses himself for not having taken it. At least a replacement part is within reach. Knott volunteers to return to the town, ten miles away, and asks for someone to accompany him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to walk back to Hachita with Marine Knott, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you decide to stay with the truck, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The highway weaves its way towards a high pass, beyond which there is a hairpin bend. Fatigue is making it increasingly difficult for you to concentrate, and you take the sharp bend too fast, causing the jeep's left side wheels to skid on the loose shale that borders the road. Desperately you try to control the skid but you run out of road. The last thing you see as the jeep plummets into a canyon is the tops of the stunted pine trees that line the canyon floor, 300 feet below.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dog begins to whine excitedly as it follows a trail of scent towards a cupboard near the opposite wall. You hear the clansman chuckling evilly, then a loud burst of automatic gunfire shatters the cupboard's plywood door. The dog claws open what little there remains of the door to reveal a swarm of new-born rats nesting among some books on the bottom shelf. Cursing, the clansman allows his hound to feast briefly on the brood before dragging him away by his collar. Then he turns and leaves the room to go in search of you on the floor above.</p>
- <p>You wait until his footsteps have faded before you come out from beneath the table and return to the window. After several abortive attempts, you manage to free the lock. Quickly you open the window and leave the building unseen via the fire escape stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call Knott to support your attack as you run towards the door, bracing yourself against the impact. With a numbing jolt, your shoulder connects with the door's planed timber, and the force splinters its wooden bolt clean in two: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>The door flies open and you step back to allow Knott to rush into the room beyond, crouching in combat stance, his pistol held before him, ready to fire. No shots are fired, and when you enter the room, you discover that the bearded man has disappeared.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you feel a sharp pain in your back, and your vision swims in and out of focus. You have been hit by a pistol bullet, and, although you fight to hang on to life, it is a struggle you cannot win. Gradually, your fingers weaken and you fall three storeys to your death in the alley below.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here in Lordsburg.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you hear shouts and sporadic gunfire amid the engine noise, then there is a dull thud and the floor shudders violently as the truck smashes through the barricade. Haskell loses his grip and is thrown heavily against your legs as the truck bucks and twists like an angry stallion. Haskell's fall dislodges you and together you tumble across the floor as the vehicle slews sideways across the highway. Then there is a second thud, louder than the first, and the truck comes to an abrupt halt.</p>
- <p>You are dazed and bruised but still conscious enough to know that something is seriously wrong. Your gun lies by your side and automatically you reach for it as you struggle to your feet. Your hand has just closed around the barrel when you see two Mexican clansmen climbing over the tailgate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to open fire at these clansmen, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you do not wish to open fire, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you can no longer see the highway for trees, you rise to your feet and scurry deeper into the forest. Here the air is heavy and still, and the heat is stifling, but at least the trees protect you from the midday sun. For two hours you ascend the pine-clad slopes of the Pedregosa Mountains, wending your way steadily westwards towards peaks that are hidden from sight.</p>
- <p>Throughout your weary trek, you exchange less than a dozen words with Marine Knott. The grief and the shock you feel play on your mind, and no matter how hard you try to shake them the images of your companions' final moments keep repeating in your mind's eye. Eventually you come to terms with your sense of bereavement, but you cannot escape the ever-present fear that the sniper is somewhere nearby.</p>
- <p>By mid-afternoon you discover a trail that cuts through the scrub growing in abundance on the higher slopes. The trail is a welcome discovery, for the scrub is twisted and tough, gnarled and deep-rooted, and difficult to climb. You have been following the trail for less than an hour when it starts to ascend very steeply towards a rugged outcrop of rock.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Field Craft skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'OK, Cal,' says the captain. 'Me and the sergeant'll take the scenic route. We'll go first. Give us time to clear the zone then wait five minutes before you and Knott make your move. Is that clear?'</p>
- <p>'No problem,' you reply, confidently. 'We'll meet up at the toll bridge at 0100 hours.'</p>
- <p>With bated breath you watch as the two soldiers slip over the perimeter wall and crawl away from the safety of Fort Bliss. Expertly they merge with the broken wasteland so that you soon find it impossible to track their path, leading to an elevated section of Freeway 54. Fifteen minutes later, all is still as quiet as the grave. You are sure that they have made it across the zone by now, and so you motion to Marine Knott to follow as you lower yourself head-first over the rampart and propel yourself across the rocky ground using only your elbows and knees.</p>
- <p>The faint moonlight serves both to help and hinder your progress as you inch your way towards the Montana Road, a highway that runs 100 yards in front of, and parallel to, the clansmen's position. Every move you make is slow and deliberate as though the ground were strewn with eggs, so urgent is the need to prevent dust from betraying your position. Eventually you reach a shallow ditch bordering the highway and you use it as cover as you advance towards a group of ruined buildings at the edge of the city. You are less than twenty yards from the ruins when you are frozen by the sound of howling dogs. They are clan bloodhounds and they have picked up your scent on the warm night air.</p>
- <p>With your pulse racing, you peer over the edge of the ditch, seeking to catch a clear view of the enemy. You cannot see them, but you can hear them approaching fast. You must act quickly if you are to avoid being caught by the hounds and their handlers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you possess at least one Meal's worth of food and wish to use it to delay the hounds, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not possess any food, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the grenade in your right hand and set its timer to detonate in five seconds. Then you ease out the firing pin and hurl the bomb towards the scrub where you first sighted the sniper.</p>
- <p>Slowly you count down from five and, the moment your count is complete, you hear the grenade explode with a shuddering boom. Instantly you leap to your feet and race up the steps. As you clear the crater, you try to make out your destination through the swirling curtain of smoke now hanging between the pines.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth and Perception skill totals. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as both clansmen have been defeated, you and Knott search their bodies and the saddlebags of their motorcycle, and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (containing four rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Shotgun (containing two rounds of 12-gauge ammunition)</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Hammer (2)</li>
- <li>Three rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
-
- <li>Eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Enough food for three Meals</li>
- <li>Enough water for four Drinks</li>
- <li>Enough water purification tablets, bandages, pain killers, and antiseptics for four Medi-kit units</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these weapons, ammunition, Medi-kit units or Backpack Items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>You hide the bodies before entering the gas station to look for the spare ignition unit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The barrel of Mad Dog's machine pistol spits flame and you feel red-hot cores of pain erupt in your shoulder, neck and head. In an instant your vision is transformed into a kaleidoscope of swirling colours, the most predominant being red.</p>
- <p>With breathtaking suddenness your car stews off the freeway and smashes into the central crash barrier, transforming it into a blazing fireball. With a scream of triumph, Mad Dog passes your burning car, ecstatic in the knowledge that at last he has wrought his revenge.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here, less than thirty miles from Tucson.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire wounds the clansman but does not prevent him from returning fire, and, as he staggers back, he empties his magazine into your hiding place. The bullets rip through the table and hit your chest and legs. You try to move but cannot. Colours swim before your eyes and the sharp pain that fills your body at first quickly gives way to a numbness that clouds your mind. You try to fight the overwhelming urge to close your eyes, but eventually you drift off into a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in El Paso.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using rubber sealant, insulation tape, and strips of metal cut from an old oil can, you help the sergeant to patch up the three bullet holes. Meanwhile, the others are able to siphon nearly two gallons of gasolene from the station's storage tanks, which is then carefully transferred to the truck's newly repaired fuel tank. Captain Frankland is disappointed at having found so little fuel, but Knott assures him that it should be sufficient to enable you to reach Lordsburg and rendezvous with the colony.</p>
- <p>Once the refuelling is completed, you climb aboard and set off in a new direction<ch.emdash/>north, towards a junction with Interstate Freeway 10.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183"><link-text>Turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the bedroom and approach the door at the end of the corridor with caution, taking care to tread lightly on the uneven floorboards to avoid making them creak. A small hatch, covered by a sliding panel of plywood, is positioned in the centre of the door at head height: it is a spy-hole.</p>
- <p>You place your ear to the door, directly below the covered hatch, and hear muffled voices in the room beyond. Although you cannot make out what is being said, you can tell that they are very frightened. Gently you lift the latch, only to discover that the door is locked on the inside.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If the number is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you haul the clansman's body under the truck and prop him out of sight behind the rear wheels. You then turn your attention to the vehicle ahead. The captain is crouching beneath it, signalling to you to place your contact mine in position. The heavy disc locks itself against the dusty tank and you uncover its detonator button carefully. Once again the captain signals and once again you obey his command, this time by pressing the button. As soon as the timing mechanism starts to tick, you close your Backpack and make a dash for the truck that Knott has commandeered.</p>
- <p>Frankland and Haskell join your escape: the captain is running twenty yards ahead of you and the sergeant, who has had to place two mines, is trailing behind you by about the same distance. Knott sees you in the side mirror and starts the truck. Smoke belches from the exhaust pipe as he revs the reluctant engine. The captain reaches the rear and clambers over the tailgate just as a couple of clansmen notice you running and start shouting wildly. Their screams distract your attention and you fail to notice a metal tool locker that is lying on the ground directly in your path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the main street, examining more than a dozen wrecked autos, but none holds out even the faintest hope of ever being resurrected. The last building in the street is the Post Office, and by the time you reach it, you are virtually resigned to the fact that your search is in vain. However, Knott wishes to search the building and, as there are still a few minutes left before you must rejoin Frankland and Haskell, you agree to help him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to search the lot at the rear of the Post Office, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you decide to search the Post Office, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the ground and roll under a car in time to see the clansmen's feet reach the base of the ramp. For a few seconds the men remain stationary, then they advance along the centre aisle, stopping occasionally to check between the rows of parked cars. You keep as still as possible until they reach the stairs and begin to ascend, then you crawl out from your hiding place and make a run for the exit ramp.</p>
- <p>By the time the clansmen realize that you have given them the slip, you are a safe distance from the parking lot and heading into the heart of the city. By keeping strictly to alleys and side streets you are able to avoid clan patrols and reach the banks of the Rio Grande without incident. Then you head west, following the river towards your rendezvous destination.</p>
- <p>Your early encounters with Mad Dog's men have delayed you and now, as you hurry along the walkways and plazas bordering the river, you are fearful that you will arrive too late to join the others. In your haste you become less cautious, taking risks that might prove dangerous.</p>
- <p>You are hurrying along a walled sidewalk when you catch sight of the Stanton Street Toll Bridge less than 400 yards away. You are confident that it is the right bridge because it is the only one still intact. A glance at your wristwatch shows that you have less than ten minutes to spare. You are about to break into a run when suddenly you hear a noise behind you that makes you freeze: it is the sound of a pistol being cocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man enters the room, his pistol poised to shoot should either of you be foolish enough to think you can overpower him. He motions you to move back against the far wall, and when you comply, he calls to his companions, who are hiding below the floor.</p>
- <p>'It's OK Jack, I got 'em covered. You can bring everyone up now.'</p>
- <p>One by one, a family colony of survivors climbs the stairs and files into the room. The first to appear is a man in his mid-thirties, lean and clean-shaven, yet bearing a striking resemblance to the man with the gun. He is followed by two women of about the same age; then two children appear: a boy aged about eight and a girl aged eleven or so.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>One by one, a family colony of survivors climbs the stairs and files into the room.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="623" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="623" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The women and children leave the room to check security at the front entrance, while the two men<ch.emdash/>brothers<ch.emdash/>demand to know who you are and why you are here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302"><link-text>Turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your lenses to see a figure moving among the gnarled grey pine trunks less than thirty yards away. A bearded man in his mid-forties, he is dressed in a plaid shirt and patched blue jeans. He is carrying a clutch of dead rabbits in one hand and a small axe in the other. Quietly you tell Knott exactly what you can see, and he replies: 'He doesn't sound much like a HAVOC assassin. What d'you think we should do, Cal?'</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to call out to the man, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you decide to stalk him, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain leads the team through the buildings of the immigration control compound, and on towards the iron-framed service walkway. The gate to this section is locked but its rusty padlock is soon dealt with and stealthily you make your crossing. Below your feet, through the cage-like steel floor of the walkway, the waters of the Rio Grande glint in the moonlight. To your right lie the ruined remains of the Cordova Bridge. Its central span collapsed during the post-holocaust years, and the debris now forms an island of broken concrete that parts the waters near the middle of the river. The noisy rush of the water passing over this isle obscures the sound of your footfalls as the team hurries across the walkway towards the Mexican side of the border.</p>
- <p>You are less than twenty yards from the exit gate when the captain signals a halt. Silently he points to the end of the walkway, where two clan sentries are standing guard with their backs to the river. 'We've gotta deal with these two quickly and quietly,' he whispers, as he reaches to his boot and unsheathes his black-bladed combat knife.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If the number you have picked is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If it is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously you wait for the rider to make his move. More than ten minutes elapse before he remounts his machine and kicks the engine into life. You reach for your gun, hoping for a clear shot as soon as he is in range, but your hopes are dashed when he turns his machine around and rides away in the opposite direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The force of the collision sends you both reeling to the ground. Desperately you scramble to your feet, shaking your head in an effort to clear your vision. You regain your footing before the clansman and immediately you seize the advantage and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Banderas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your having the first strike, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points losses you sustain in the first round of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinded by the glare of their spotlight, you struggle to avoid the oncoming truck and swerve sharply to the right. Captain Frankland, who is manning the heavy machine gun, is poised to fire when you make your move. Not only does the sudden change of direction ruin his aim, it hurls him out of the jeep into the path of the pick-up truck. The loss of your commander distracts your attention from the road, and you fail to see the steep ravine that is looming out of the darkness. The last thing you hear, as the jeep plummets sixty feet into an empty reservoir, are the terrified screams of Haskell and Knott.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step over the dead dogs just as their handler, a scrawny-faced clansman dressed in a tattered denim jacket and jeans, comes running towards you wielding a crowbar. He is calling to his dogs by name and quickly you realize that he has not seen you standing in the shadows. Rather than fight him, you decide to backtrack and attempt to find your partner.</p>
- <p>Knott is crouched in hiding beneath an archway further south. He sees you as you pass and attracts your attention by whispering your name. The discovery of the dead dogs has sent the clansmen into a frenzy of activity and immediately they launch a manhunt. Fortunately, they start by searching some distance away from you, enabling the two of you to slip away unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The steep ground that borders the plateau is dry and flaky, and it crumbles frequently beneath your weight. Progress is painfully slow as you inch your way around the wooded outcrop, hugging the trunks of the mountain pines to prevent yourself from falling into the valley far below.</p>
- <p>Add together your Field Craft and Stealth skill totals. Add to this total your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If your total score is 19 or less, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If it is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grit your teeth and struggle to hang on. Then a ricochet screams from the brickwork and cuts across the back of your left hand: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The pain in your hand is excruciating, but it soon subsides to be replaced by a tingling sensation that cramps the muscles in your forearm. Your fingers weaken and, with a terrifying jolt, you find yourself swinging in the void, supported only by the fingers of your right hand.</p>
- <p>After what seems like an eternity, your companions put paid to the clansmen and come to your rescue. Strong hands grip your aching arm and haul you to safety, but before you can thank them, they turn and follow the captain towards a fire escape on the far side of the building. You pause just long enough to catch your breath and retrieve your Backpack, then you hurry after them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain Frankland orders everyone back to the truck. 'This ain't the last we've seen of Mad Dog's men,' he warns, looking to the west in the direction of Ciudad Juarez. 'We'd best keep moving while we're ahead. We've made good progress, but we've still got about 100 miles to cover before we reach Deming.'</p>
- <p>He climbs into the cab beside Marine Knott, while you and the sergeant settle yourselves in the rear and try to make yourselves comfortable. You leave the town, heading north, following the remains of a highway that promises to take you back across the border and on to your rendezvous with the colony. A few miles beyond the town, the highway crosses a lake by means of a narrow causeway. The first few rays of the dawn sun are lightening the eastern sky, and, as you stare across the lonely landscape, you find yourself thinking of Kate and the colony.</p>
- <p>'If all goes well, we'll reach Deming a few hours before noon,' says Haskell, studying a map by the light of a tiny bulb in a wire cage bolted to the rear of the cab. Then he slips the map inside his combat jacket, switches off the light, and curls up on the floor to sleep. You are now feeling very tired, so you decide to follow Haskell's example and try, despite the rough ride, to get a few hours' much-needed rest.</p>
- <p>Before you sleep you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">To continue, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect210-1-foot" idref="sect210-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch (if any).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless with the exertion and exhilaration of your run, you crash through the foliage and throw yourself to the ground, scarcely able to believe that you escaped from the crater without being shot.<a id="sect210-1" idref="sect210-1-foot" class="footnote" /> You are beginning to think that the sniper failed to see you, when suddenly there is a gunshot and a bullet smacks into the base of a tree less than six feet from where you lie.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you turn to run, the clansman hurls his crowbar at the middle of your back.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth and Perception skill totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your shotgun to your shoulder, and, as you take aim at the assassin's chest, you see him take up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places these bulky lenses to his visor and begins to search the surrounding rooftops. It seems a curious thing to do as the buildings are close: surely he does not need binoculars to be able to see if anyone is standing on top of them?</p>
- <p>He dips the lenses and scans the ground floor windows of the courthouse, and a sudden chill stabs your heart as you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, enhanced-resolution image intensifiers. He sees you and immediately you squeeze the trigger, fearful that you have left your shot too late.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect213-1-foot" idref="sect213-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire, and almost immediately throw yourself to the floor of the truck, hoping to avoid your enemy's counter-fire. Fortunately, your move proves unnecessarily cautious: your burst of fire hits the clan commander in the head, killing him instantly.<a id="sect213-1" idref="sect213-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>His death travels like a shoc kwave through the other clansmen, bringing them to an abrupt halt. They abort their attack and fall back, a few of them stopping just long enough to pick up and bear his lifeless body away from the street.</p>
- <p>While there is a lull in the firing, you seize the chance to help Knott and Captain Frankland clear away the debris that is blocking your escape. A thick, wooden pole, which once supported overhead electricity cables in this part of town, is jammed between the wheel and the truck's front fender. With your help they are able to shift it, and Knott returns to the cab and starts the engine first time. Then, as he brings the truck over the mound, you and the captain leap on to the tailgate and pull yourselves aboard.</p>
- <p>The street ends at a piece of wasteland but a few hundred yards beyond it lies a highway running east to west. The captain peers through the cab's partition window and gives an ironic laugh when he sees the highway.</p>
- <p>'Make for that road and head west,' he commands, and Knott obeys. Then he turns to the sergeant and says, 'It looks like you're finally outvoted, Haskell. Seems we're on our way to Mimbres.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your eyes grow accustomed to the gloom, you see that you have gained access to a small, sweet-smelling store room. Apart from an area occupied by a wooden door, the walls of the room are lined with shelves on which are stored jars of preserved fruits, canned foodstuffs, and pickled vegetables.</p>
- <p>On one shelf alone there is sufficient food for more than fifty Meals. If you wish to take some, remember to mark your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to continue to search the room, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to leave the room via the door, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim and fire at the approaching clansman, the rising barrel of your weapon blocking your target for just an instant. As your gun comes down from its recoil you see him staggering on the steps, his eyes bulging and his hands clamped to his chest. Then his legs buckle and he falls from the stairs to land, with a dull, heavy thud, on the dried-up bank of the Rio Grande.</p>
- <p>'What the<ch.ellips/>' hisses the captain, his eyes wild with anger and fear as he turns to face you. Then, in the next instant, all hell breaks loose.</p>
- <p>Alerted by the sound of your gunfire, the clansmen who are guarding the toll bridge immediately rush to their searchlights and train them on the walkway entrance. Within seconds the whole area is bathed in white light, revealing the team, and the bodies of the two dead clan sentries. Swiftly the area is surrounded by the enemy who open fire mercilessly. Unable to find cover or escape from this deadly ambush, all four of you fall victim to the clansmen's guns.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your strength, skill, and considerable determination, you overcome your climbing problems and propel yourself to the peak. Elation hits your senses when you stand on the top of the rockfalls but it is a feeling that is all too brief.</p>
- <p>From the eastern end of the gully a cloud of dust is approaching. It is over a mile distant, but at once you can tell that it is being kicked up by a motorcycle. You stare at the approaching machine and, although you cannot see the rider, you know that it is the assassin. Cursing your decision to abandon your bike, you look around desperately for some means of escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to descend the west side of the rockfall and attempt to escape along the road on foot, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you decide to descend into the gully and try to salvage your motorcycle, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you choose to remain on the rockfall and attempt to ambush the assassin when he arrives, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are beginning to think that the ambush has backfired when the captain arrives to help you to overcome your adversary. He then signals to Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott, and they rush to the jeep, return your equipment, and then help him search the Mavericks' bodies before hiding them in the bus depot.</p>
- <p>On returning to the vehicle, Captain Frankland offers you the opportunity to drive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to drive the jeep, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to let the captain drive, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On your return to the main street you see Sergeant Haskell in the distance, beckoning you over to a used car lot near the middle of Rodeo. You hurry across the highway and enter the lot, which specialized in commercial and recreational vehicles before 'The Day'. The faded billboards boast that 'only the best vehicles are to be found here', but sadly this claim is long out-of-date. Most of the trucks and RVs are totally wrecked, and 'nearly all have tyres and batteries that perished during the post-holocaust years. All, that is, save one.</p>
- <p>Captain Frankland has discovered a battered Toyota pick-up truck that still has four good tyres. He has lifted the hood and, as you enter the lot, he asks you to take a closer look at the engine. Apart from a dead battery and lack of fuel, you soon realize that this pick-up is in remarkably good condition.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Captain Frankland asks you to take a closer look at the engine.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="634" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="634" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'Well, we've found some gas,' says Knott, raising the fuel can, 'so that solves one problem.'</p>
- <p>'That's fine,' replies the captain, 'but we'll still need some electrical power to get this engine started.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess a <typ class="item">Solar Regulator</typ>, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pump a cartridge into the breech as you bring your shotgun to bear on the leading biker. Your finger starts to squeeze the trigger as the muzzle levels off at a spot two feet above the motorcycle's blazing headlight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The unexpected ramming sends you to your doom. Your car veers off to the right and collides with the stationary Landcruiser at over 100 miles an hour, transforming it into a blazing fireball. With a scream of triumph, Mad Dog crosses the bridge, happy in the knowledge that at last he has wrought his revenge.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here, less than twenty miles from Tucson.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rock shatters with a loud crack that sends the clansmen diving for cover. Instantly you spring out of the ditch, crouching as you run, your eyes fixed on the shadowy archway ahead. You are five yards from safety when your foot connects with a twisted steel rod protruding from the ground and you are sent sprawling. You land with a jolt (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), but almost immediately Knott pulls you to your feet by your Backpack and bundles you towards the archway. Moments later a beam of torchlight passes over the place where you fell. It hovers there for a few seconds then moves away slowly.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait for your breathing to return to normal. A glance around the pillar reveals the three clansmen searching the place where the rock landed. Confident that you have not been detected, you continue on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horror of seeing the pistol pointing straight at your heart galvanizes you into action. You hurl yourself at the floor, barely moments before the muzzle belches flame, avoiding what would most certainly have been a fatal wound.</p>
- <p>In the close confines of the corridor the noise of the pistol's discharge is deafening. You shake your head in a vain effort to clear the ringing that now fills your ears. Angered at how close you came to death, you struggle to your feet and face the door, only to see the spy-hole slam firmly shut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to attempt to barge open the door, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you wish to shoot open the lock, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly something hits you in the back. The impact knocks you flat on your face, and you gash your hands and cheek on the jagged rubble: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Although you have been hit by a bullet, you are not seriously wounded. Your Backpack has saved you from fatal injury: the bullet has lodged itself in one of your Medi-kits. (Erase one Medi-kit from you <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have no Medi-kits, erase the first item you have recorded on your list of Backpack Items.)</p>
- <p>Breathlessly, you drag your aching body towards the front of the truck and start to help Frankland and Knott clear away the debris that is blocking your escape. A thick, wooden pole, which once supported overhead electricity cables in this part of town, is jammed between the wheel and the truck's front fender. With your help, they are at last able to dislodge it, and Knott braves the gunfire to climb into the cab. The engine starts first time and, as he brings the truck over the mound, you and the captain leap on to the tailgate and pull yourselves aboard.</p>
- <p>The street ends at a piece of wasteland, but a few hundred yards beyond lies a highway running east to west. The captain peers through the cabs partition window and gives a harsh laugh when he sees the highway.</p>
- <p>'Make for that road and head west,' he commands, and Knott obeys. Then he turns to the sergeant and says, 'It looks like you're finally outvoted, Haskell. We're on our way to Mimbres.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your toe connects with the heavy metal box but you are able to recover your footing in time to avoid falling over. Haskell draws level and together you jump and cling to the truck's tailgate as Knott starts to move away. Helped by Captain Frankland, the two of you make it safely aboard as the truck rapidly picks up speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the wide trench until you find a suitable place on the far side of the rockfall to make your exit. The ascent is accomplished without difficulty, and, as you clear the crest of the gully, you bring your motorcycle to a halt in order to take a parting look at the approaching cloud of dust. It is less than half a mile distant, within range of a snipers rifle. Chilled by the thought of your murdered companions, you wind back the throttle and gun your bike along the bumpy mountain road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the ground with a jolt that leaves you breathless. Moments later, you hear a dull thud and a screech of buckled metal as the motorcycle clips the gas pump and crashes down on its side. You look up in time to see it rolling over and over, then, with a loud bang, it slams into the gas station wall. Cautiously you get to your feet and approach the tangled, smoking wreckage with your gun poised. You are still very wary of this maniacal rider even though the chances of his surviving such a terrible crash must be slim indeed.</p>
- <p>As you expected, the rider is dead. A closer examination of his broken body, however, reveals that he was dead before his machine hit the ground. He was killed as he sped over the bridge by a ricocheting bullet, and his body, slumped over the handlebars, kept his machine balanced in an upright and fixed line.</p>
- <p>Thinking of how close you came to death makes you break out in a cold sweat. Uneasily you wipe your forehead with the back of your trembling hand as you turn and walk away from the dead clansman and his shattered bike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of the crash brings the clansmen to a halt at the side of the mountain road. They dismount from their machines and peel off their leather face masks before taking tentative steps towards the edge of the steep-sided canyon. The sight of the burning wreckage draws evil grins across their cruel faces, and when Knott's bloodstained tunic is found nearby, they laugh and howl like victorious jackals. Convinced that you are dead, their leader radios the news to Mad Dog Michigan. When he finishes the call he orders his scouts to remount their bikes and follow him back to Lordsburg. Only when you can no longer hear the thunderous growl of their bikes do you leave your hiding place and set off on foot along Highway 80, heading south.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>When Knott's bloodstained tunic is found nearby, they laugh and howl like victorious jackals.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It is only an hour after the sun has risen and the temperature is already climbing above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The prospect of spending a whole day walking in the burning desert heat is too dangerous to contemplate seriously, so when you see the town of Rodeo shimmering in the distance, you resolve to set about finding a replacement vehicle the moment you arrive.</p>
- <p>The highway cuts through the centre of this empty town, dividing it into two halves of roughly the same size. A derelict furniture store marks the start of the main street and it is here, in the shade of its awning, that you stop to rest. You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Once you have recovered your strength, Captain Frankland and Sergeant Haskell pair up to search one half of the town while you and Knott search the other. You need to find a serviceable vehicle that will carry you as far as Tucson.</p>
- <p>'We'll meet back here in half an hour,' says the captain, and offers you the choice of searching the west side or the east side of Rodeo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to search the east side of the town, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you choose to search the west side of the town, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect228-1-foot" idref="sect228-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire catches the clansman in the upper chest and sends him spinning across the room.<a id="sect228-1" idref="sect228-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He hits the far wall, rebounds, then drops to his knees, his hands scrabbling all the while to maintain a grip on his weapon. He is determined to kill you but, as he struggles to raise his machine pistol, death robs him of the chance to avenge himself.</p>
- <p>You scramble out from under the table to see the bloodhound scurrying away through the open door. Aware that the noise will have alerted the dead man's confederates, you waste no time in forcing open the window and leaving the building via the fire escape stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The interior of the repair shop looks like a junk yard after a sandstorm. The floor and counters are littered with pieces of electronic equipment that were once praised as the best of their kind during the communications boom that swept the world at the turn of the century. Now these gadgets lie broken and buried beneath a blanket of post-holocaust dust.</p>
- <p>You spend several minutes sifting through the debris, and manage to unearth a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ> transceiver that still functions. If you choose to keep this item, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is not long before Interstate 10 appears on the horizon, its surface glowing warmly orange in the light of the setting sun. When you reach the junction, Knott drives on to the freeway and brings the truck to a halt to allow Captain Frankland to inspect the surface. The tyre tracks of several heavy vehicles are clearly visible in the dust, indicating that the colony has passed this way some time in the last six hours. The discovery is well received; it confirms that the convoy broke out of El Paso successfully, and it raises your hopes for an early reunion with Kate and the others.</p>
- <p>Seven miles west of the junction, the remains of a small New Mexican town stands less than a mile from the freeway. A set of fresh tyre tracks veers away from the freeway and heads towards the town. The tracks are quite distinctive and you recognize them at once: they were made by the tyres that are fitted to your roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to ask Captain Frankland to follow the tyre tracks, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you decide to say nothing, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brake heavily and Mad Dog's speedster crosses in front of you to hit the barrier with a terrific screech. Metal twists and sparks fly from the fender as he scrapes along the crash barrier at nearly 100 miles an hour. You pull back and overtake him on the right, powering your roadster away as he fights to free himself from the barrier's magnet-like grip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A barricade of wrecked autos has been strung out in a continuous line across the highway at the entrance to the town. Beyond this wall of buckled hulks, you see that the town is clan held. More than a dozen motorcycles are parked on either side of the main street, where two or three clansmen are asleep in the shade.</p>
- <p>'Why are they so interested in holding this God-forsaken place?' you ponder aloud.</p>
- <p>'Strategically it's important,' replies the captain. 'It controls the only cross-border highway through the mountains into New Mexico.'</p>
- <p>The captain asks for Sergeant Haskell's map, and after studying it, he says: 'The town's called Columbus. If we're gonna reach Deming on time we'll have to smash our way through the road block, otherwise we face a long detour on Highway 9, the Mimbres road.</p>
- <p>If we go that way we'll have to try an' link up with the convoy someplace else, someplace further west, like Lordsburg or San Simon. Either way it's damn risky.'</p>
- <p>Because of the risks involved, the captain puts the decision to the vote. He and Knott opt to take a detour, while Sergeant Haskell favours the direct approach. He votes to crash the road block while the clansmen are off their guard. The others wait to hear your choice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you vote to smash through the road block, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you side with the captain and Marine Knott, and vote to detour Columbus, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have entered what appears to be the living area of a small, well-equipped, efficiently organized colony. A bellows-operated air pump stands in one corner next to a bookcase filled to bursting with classical literature, disc-chips, and visi-cassettes. There are compact industrial batteries to supply power to the ceiling lights, a hand-cranked generator, a short-wave receiver, video and hi-fi equipment, a wall-mounted cine-screen, a computer and VDU, a first aid kit, and cupboards from floor to ceiling filled, no doubt, with other essential and luxury items.</p>
- <p>Opposite the door by which you entered, in the corner of the room is an open trapdoor. A flight of steps descends into the darkness of another room directly below the one in which you now stand. You point to it, Knott nods his head, and together you approach the steps with your guns at the ready.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If your Perception skill total is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your Perception skill total is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously you glance over your shoulder as the howling grows louder. Then you catch sight of them, two slack-jowled bloodhounds, padding their way across the Montana Road with two clansmen close behind. One of the men is carrying a machine pistol; the other a long-handled flashlight.</p>
- <p>You are beginning to fear the worst when suddenly both dogs smell the meat and bound towards it. The clansmen curse them, but, before they can pull them away from their meal, you and Knott reach the open door of a derelict building and slip inside unseen. Although the interior is dark and dusty, you are able to discover an exit on the far side of the building and escape before the enemy has a chance to catch up.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to maintain control but the handlebars twist out of your grip and you lose your balance. Before you can recover, the front wheel locks and you are thrown forward, head-first over the headlight, to land with a sickening thud at the bottom of the rock-strewn gully.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance 0 equals 10). Add 1 point to the number you have picked.</p>
- <p>Your total score is equivalent to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you must lose as a result of your fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If, after this accident, you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake with a start, your hand reaching for your gun as you sense instinctively that something is wrong.</p>
- <p>'Quick, everyone up!' hisses the sergeant. 'There's trouble on the way!'</p>
- <p>Within seconds you are wide awake, taking in every detail of your surroundings, assessing the threat. A column of vehicles is entering the town, their headlights hooded but still visible in the darkness. There are several four-wheeled vehicles but motorcycles make up the majority. It is a clan convoy.</p>
- <p>They enter the town and stop in line along the main street. They, too, are following the colony's tracks, which have led them straight to you.</p>
- <p>An RV draws up alongside the line of vehicles and out steps a man with hatred blazing in his eyes. A chill touches your heart as you recognize his haunting features: it is Mad Dog Michigan. He screams a command and immediately the clansmen leave their machines and, with torch in hand, commence a search of the surrounding buildings.</p>
- <p>'This way!' says Captain Frankland, his voice a harsh whisper. You and the others follow him up a flight of stairs that leads to the roof. As you crouch beside the parapet that encircles the roof, you peer carefully through a gap and into the street below. There are clansmen everywhere, running back and forth, their torches probing every shadow. All the same, you are beginning to feel sure that they will miss you when you hear something that sets your pulse racing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Marine Knott begins his descent to the basement while you race up the stairs to a landing on the first floor where a corridor stretches away into the darkness. To your right is a door, slightly ajar, which bears the faded words 'EL PASO JOURNAL<ch.emdash/>NEWS ROOM' on its panelled wood surface. You enter to discover a large, dusty room cluttered with desks and computer terminals. A fire escape sign catches your eye: it is positioned above a window on the far side of the room.</p>
- <p>A noise on the stairs makes your heart skip a beat: someone is approaching. Hurriedly you weave your way through the maze of office furniture, taking great pains to avoid making a noise, only to discover that the fire escape window is jammed shut. A light shines across the door and you hear the snuffling whine of a bloodhound in the corridor outside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you wish to smash the glass and escape through the window, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you decide to hide among the desks, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You investigate the ground surrounding the spring and discover that it is lush with green vegetation, mosses, and damp earth imprinted with many animal tracks. There are no signs of carcasses or dead foliage, which would indicate that the spring is contaminated.</p>
- <p>Now that you are sure that it is safe to do so you drink from the spring, refill your water canteen and wash in the cool, clean water: restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">To continue, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The spectators' enclosure offers enough cover for the three of you to reach a position directly opposite the parked trucks without being seen, but the minutes pass slowly as you await an opportunity to dash across the track and plant your mines. Sergeant Haskell and the captain seize the first opportunity and make it across the track safely. Once they are hidden beneath their targets they signal to you to join them as quickly as you can. Four long minutes tick by before you get the chance to reach the first truck. When it comes, you tense yourself like a coiled spring and propel yourself forward, sprinting head-down across the track towards your target. You are within a few feet of the vehicle when a Mexican clansman suddenly appears and walks directly in your path: collision is unavoidable.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth and Perception skill totals. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add the number you pick to your combined skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If your final score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If your final score is 9-13, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If your final score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fix your eyes on the trail that disappears into the pines on the far side of the plateau. Taking a deep breath, you launch yourself out of the trees, running as fast as your aching legs will allow.</p>
- <p>You are near the middle of the clearing when the silence is shattered once more by the sound of the sniper's rifle.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If the number you have picked is 0-5, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If it is 6-9 <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch the assassin remove a banana-shaped magazine from his pocket and insert it in a slot in front of the rifle's trigger guard. Then he shoulders the weapon and takes up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places them to his visor and methodically scans the surrounding rooftops. This strikes you as a curious thing to do as the buildings are very close: surely he does not need binoculars to see if anyone is standing on top of them? Then a chill stabs your heart when he scans the first floor windows of the courthouse and you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, high-resolution, image intensifiers.</p>
- <p>Immediately you duck back from the window, but you fear that he has already located your position.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If it is 4-9, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the rock smashes to the ground, you spring out of the ditch, crouching as you run, your eyes fixed on the shadowy archway ahead. You have covered only a few yards when you hear a faint noise somewhere on the road above. There is a flash, then a beam of torchlight pours down from the freeway parapet and comes sweeping towards you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cross to the door opposite and lift the latch. At first it does not move and you assume that it is locked from the inside, but then you notice that it fits poorly in its rough-hewn timber frame, and realize that the door is simply sticking. A sharp kick soon cures it.</p>
- <p>Inside you discover a large bed, constructed of pine and covered with a counterpane of rabbit fur. An assortment of male and female clothing hangs from a rail at the foot of the bed, and a handful of faded family photographs stands on a table beside it. You search a cupboard behind the door and discover a <typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ> and a <typ class="item">Screwdriver</typ>.</p>
- <p>Having discovered what lies behind two of the doors in this corridor, you leave the room determined to learn what lies behind the third.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The truck hits the wall of cars with a tremendous crash that sends a violent shudder through the floor. Angry voices and the sharp crackle of automatic gunfire can be heard amidst the roar of the engine as the truck lurches through the enemy line and accelerates along the main street. The air becomes livid with the sounds of singing bullets. They pierce the canvas and shatter against the cage-like frame. An occasional fragment singes your skin but otherwise you escape unharmed.</p>
- <p>Now Haskell is at the tailgate, returning fire at the clansmen who are guarding the barricade, forcing them to quit shooting and dive for cover. You move to join him but you are distracted when you feel the truck decelerating. A glance over your shoulder in the direction of the cab window soon reveals why Knott is slowing down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Certain that you have missed nothing of any practical value, you leave the radio shop and return to your motorcycle. Before starting it, you check the engine and notice that the cooling fins are very hot to the touch: the lack of oil is causing the bore to overheat. As you kick start the engine, you hope desperately that the bike will continue to run long enough to carry you back to the colony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the close proximity of your target, the constant jolting makes it hard to bring the barrel of your rifle to bear. Unable to aim with any degree of accuracy, you are forced to fire into the shadowy area above the motorcycle's blazing headlight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total score is now 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the Post Office the air is thick with dust, making it difficult for you to draw breath as you explore the lobby. You find little of practical use here, only a <typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ> and a <typ class="item">Ball of String</typ>. (If you wish to keep either or both items, remember to record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>On leaving the lobby area, you investigate a small office and make a macabre discovery. Three rag-clad skeletons, all former Post Office staff, are seated at their work stations, their bony frames slumped forwards over the keyboards of their computers. You find the sight disturbing, and when you hear Marine Knott calling to you to come to the rear of the Post Office, you waste no time in responding.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift your machine pistol to your shoulder and try to ignore the bullets that are ricocheting off the tailgate as you take aim at the clan commander. For a brief moment his eyes widen with shock when he sees the muzzle of your G-12 pointing in his direction. He starts to step away, but before he can find cover, you squeeze off your first burst of fire.</p>
- <p>Add together your Shooting Skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of the foliage when a shot rings out and an agonizing pain in your left temple brings you crashing to the ground. Swiftly the pain is replaced by a numbness that clouds your vision and drains the strength from your limbs. An overwhelming desire to sleep assails your senses, and, although you fight to stay awake, it is a fight you cannot win.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Pedregosa Mountains of Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you make your way through the streets of Ciudad Juarez, past the derelict stores of the Pronaf Shopping Center, and on towards the Juarez Race Track. The captain knows this border town well, and he is confident that Mad Dog Michigan will take delivery of the explosives at the town's famous dog racing track, which he and the Mexican leader, Santiago, are using as their joint headquarters. Its size and defensive position are ideally suited to their needs.</p>
- <p>From the ruins of a burnt-out cafe located opposite the race track's east gate, you act patiently as lookout while the captain considers the team's next course of action. While you are observing the traffic of men entering and leaving the clan headquarters, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move in quickly towards the biker, hoping that the speed of your attack will catch him off-guard, but he sees you coming out of the corner of his eye, and, as you leap over his machine and launch your first blow, he avoids it by rolling aside. He rises to his feet, and you see the glint of polished steel in his right hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Firefox</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are five miles out of Benson when you notice in your driving mirror a cloud of dust rising in the distance. You tell Kate and she turns around to take a look.</p>
- <p>'Clan scouts, a pack of them,' she reports. 'Looks like twenty bikes, but they're not on their own. They're tailin' a car. Well, I think it's a car<ch.emdash/>it's got four wheels.' She continues to stare into the distance for several minutes, then she says: 'I don't like the look of it, Cal. Let's not hang around to say hi to these dudes, OK?'</p>
- <p>You respond by flooring the gas pedal until the roadsters speedometer registers 100 miles an hour. 'The pack's dropping back,' shouts Kate, her voice barely audible above the noise of the rushing wind. 'But that car is gaining on us.'</p>
- <p>You are speeding over a girder bridge, across a water-course known locally as the Pantona Wash, when you see the car in your mirror. It is black and bullet-shaped, with an enclosed driver's compartment and a roaring lion's head emblazoned on the hood. It accelerates to within twenty yards of your trunk, and you catch sight of the driver's snarling face. A shiver runs down your spine when you recognize the manic features of Mad Dog Michigan.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The car accelerates and you catch sight of the driver's snarling face.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="572" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="572" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Kate draws her pistol, but before she can take aim, you hear a burst of heavy machine gun fire and see muzzle flashes erupting from the front of Mad Dog's speedster. The heavy-calibre rounds slam into your trunk, and the force of their impact at high speed sends your roadster careering into a skid.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If it is 7-10, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you deal your enemy a killing blow, his partner appears and shines a torch full in your face. For a moment you are blinded by the glare, but instinctively you move to defend yourself as he leaps towards you, a baseball bat poised to crush your skull.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Babe Ruth</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your partial blindness, and the fatigue of your earlier combat, reduce your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your stomach lurches when you hear yet another shot echo across the mountains. You flinch as you run, half expecting to feel the pain of impact, but the bullet misses you and lodges itself in the trunk of a pine tree less than ten yards ahead.</p>
- <p>You reach the trees and throw yourself down behind a thick pine, breathless with fear and sheer exertion. As you lie there, inwardly weeping, fighting to control the nausea that rises in waves, Marine Knott crawls to your side and tugs at your sleeve.</p>
- <p>'We stand a better chance if we can get deeper into the forest,' he says, his voice betraying the fear that is gnawing at his insides like a voracious rat. You blink your approval and struggle to follow him as he crawls across the tinder-dry bed of pine needles and sickly brown vegetation that covers the tall trees' roots.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Confident that the clansmen are too shaken to be able to shoot straight, you laugh with disdain at their attempt to hit the truck. Unfortunately, they are armed with high-powered, M-10 assault rifles that are fitted with telescopic sights. Moreover all three men are expert shots.</p>
- <p>A withering hail of bullets hits you in a line across your chest and sends you tumbling backwards to crash against the cab. You feel no pain, for two of the rounds have pierced your heart. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here on Highway 9.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake shortly after dawn feeling thoroughly refreshed after ten hours' uninterrupted sleep: restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The barricade is still intact and, once it is dismantled, you arm yourself and investigate the cabin above. Nothing has been touched during the night, prompting you to believe that you may, at least for the time being, have given the assassin the slip.</p>
- <p>After eating breakfast, you set about unpacking and constructing the motorcycle. There is sufficient gasolene stored in the cellar to fill its tank, but you can find no engine oil. The motorcycle's oil level is very low and you can only hope that it will get you as far as Tucson before breaking down.</p>
- <p>After studying the <a idref="map">map</a>, you mount your new vehicle and set off along the road, heading west through the Swisshelm Mountains. You enjoy the cool breeze whipping through your hair as you ride at speed along the empty highway, and you cover more than twenty miles before you come to a small town with a sign that proclaims:</p>
- <signpost>GLEESON WELCOMES CAREFUL DRIVERS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to stop at this mountain town, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you decide to ride through without stopping, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you drag the clansman's body under the truck and prop him out of sight behind the rear wheels. You then turn your attention to the vehicle behind. The captain is crouching beneath it, signalling to you to place your contact mine in position. The heavy disc locks itself against the dusty tank and you uncover its detonator button carefully. Once again the captain signals and once again you obey his command, this time by pressing the button. As soon as the timing mechanism starts to tick, you close your Backpack and make a dash for the truck that Knott has commandeered.</p>
- <p>Frankland and Haskell join your escape: the captain is running twenty yards ahead of you and the sergeant, who has had to place two mines, is trailing behind you by about the same distance. Knott sees you in the side mirror and starts the truck, smoke belching from the exhaust pipe as he revs the reluctant engine. The captain reaches the rear and clambers over the tailgate just as a couple of clansmen notice you running and start shouting wildly. Their screams distract your attention and you fail to notice a metal tool locker that is lying on the ground directly in your path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steadily the highway climbs towards a pass, beyond which there is a hairpin bend. You manage to negotiate it safely, only to find that a rockfall has partially blocked the road less than twenty yards beyond the bend. Your driving instinct warns you not to brake heavily for fear of sending the jeep into a skid, so you try to steer around the mound of fallen rock without slowing down. Your tactics work: you clear the mound with inches to spare. Unluckily, as you straighten the steering wheel, you strike a stray boulder and the jeep is brought to a grinding halt.</p>
- <p>'The front running gear's wrecked,' says Captain Frankland, despondently, as he inspects the damage. 'There's no way we'll get any further in this vehicle.'</p>
- <p>The situation looks bleak: the clansmen are likely to show up at any time and they are sure to catch you now that the jeep is wrecked. Then an idea occurs to you that might just throw them off your trail. If you were to set fire to the jeep and push it into the deep canyon that borders this section of the mountain road, the sight of the burning wreckage might convince them that you had met with a fatal accident. The others agree that it is worth a try and immediately set about preparing the jeep. Together you manhandle it to the edge of the road, then light a rag, which Haskell has stuffed into the gasolene filter pipe. Once it is burning, you give one last push and send the vehicle careering over the edge into the canyon 300 feet below. After the resounding crash, you hear the clansmen approaching and you quickly take cover among the boulders. To make it seem more realistic Marine Knott drops his bloodstained tunic at the edge of the road before he takes cover, seconds before the first riders appear on the scene.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop to the ground, biting back your urge to cry out in pain as you gash your knees and elbows on the sharp rubble (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Marine Knott copies your move, and the beam of the torchlight passes over your still bodies without stopping. It hovers nearby for a few seconds then reluctantly moves away.</p>
- <p>Slowly you crawl the final few yards to cover. When both of you are hidden from view, you wait for your breathing to return to normal and then glance around the pillar to see if the coast is clear. The torch's beam is scanning the ground further south. Then you hear a curse from somewhere on the freeway above and the light is switched off.</p>
- <p>Confident that you have not been detected, you readjust your equipment and continue on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mad Dog's speedster crosses in front of you as you reduce your speed quickly, and Kate cheers as he hits the barrier with a terrific screech. Metal twists and sparks fly from his fender as he scrapes along the crash barrier at nearly 100 miles an hour. You stamp your foot on the gas pedal and overtake him on the right, powering your roadster away as he fights to extricate himself from the barrier's magnet-like grip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fixedly you concentrate on the area of the forest that you have picked as your target destination. The more you think about what lies ahead, the more you shiver with dread at having to risk your life running such a dangerous gauntlet of fire.</p>
- <p>The chance that the sniper will fail to hit you is very slim indeed. To increase the odds in your favour. you will need to distract his aim.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you possess a <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you possess a <typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ>, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The silver dollar hits the dusty soil, spins, then settles heads-up.</p>
- <p>'OK men, that decides it,' says Captain Frankland, stooping to pick up the coin. 'We hit Columbus right now. Sergeant<ch.emdash/>you and Knott see what sort o' extra protection you can rig up to the truck's front fender, while me an' Cal set up firing positions in the back.'</p>
- <p>I don't think we're gonna have time for that, sir,' says Knott, apologetically. 'Looks like more o' Mad Dog's boys are on their way.' He points along the highway at an ominous column of dust that is approaching from the south.</p>
- <p>'Hell!' spits Frankland. 'We'll just have to take our chances. Mount up men. We've got a date to keep an' I aim to be there on time.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through your lenses you watch as the black-clad rider casually withdraws a bulky pair of binoculars from a saddlebag, flips back the visor of his full-face crash helmet, and raises them to his eyes. After a few seconds, he kneels behind the motorcycle and rests his elbows on the seat in order to steady his hands as he scans the landscape. You are in no doubt that he is looking for you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203"><link-text>Turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Coarse shouts and whooping screams of delight echo from behind the building: the clansmen have discovered the truck. The news is relayed to Mad Dog Michigan stirring him to a fearful rage. 'They're here, I know it!' he screams, demonically. 'Find them! Find them! I want them dead!'</p>
- <p>He paces the main street, shaking his fist at the buildings on either side, demanding that his men fulfil his lust for revenge. They storm the building on which you hide and at once you begin looking for a way out.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>He paces the main street, shaking his fist, demanding that his men fulfil his lust for revenge.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="627" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="627" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The fire escape offers no solution: its ladder descends to the main street. There is only one way off the roof and that is to jump to the neighbouring building fifteen feet away. After jamming the roof door to delay the clansmen for as long as possible, the captain leads the escape. The others throw their guns and equipment across and then make the jump safely. You are making the run-up to your jump when you hear a loud burst of gunfire and see the roof door collapse, shot off its hinges.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score (ignoring any encumbrance penalties you have due to the number of Backpack Items you possess). Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add this figure to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If your total score is 18 or less, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If your total is 19-22, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If it is 23 or more, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling grows louder. Then you catch sight of them, two slack-jowled bloodhounds, padding their way across the Montana Road with two clansmen close behind. One of the men is carrying a machine pistol; the other a long-handled flashlight.</p>
- <p>One of the dogs smells the meat and bounds towards it, but the other ignores his brother and continues to lead his torch-wielding handler straight towards you. He sees you, and begins to bark wildly, alerting its handler to your presence.</p>
- <p>'Run for it!' you hiss. 'We've been seen!'</p>
- <p>Knott increases his speed and you follow him, praying that you will reach cover before the clansmen open fire. Your prayers are answered. In his haste, the clansman drops his flashlight, and before he can retrieve it and switch it on, you follow Knott through the open door of a derelict building.</p>
- <p>'We stand a better chance if we split up,' you say, casting an anxious glance over your shoulder at the yellow light that is streaming through the doorway. 'But remember<ch.emdash/>meet up at the bridge as planned.'</p>
- <p>The torchlight illuminates the interior sufficiently for you to be able to make out two possible exits: a carpeted staircase leading to the first floor, and another leading down to the basement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to ascend the stairs to the first floor, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you decide to descend to the basement, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A rush of adrenalin fires your reflexes and you throw yourself to the floor as the muzzle of the gun belches flame. You avoid a fatal wound but you do not escape entirely without injury. As you fall, one of the bullets cuts a stinging groove across the side of your skull: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Angered by the wound you have received, and how close you came to death, you struggle to your feet just in time to see the spy-hole slam shut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to attempt to barge open the door, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you wish to shoot open the lock, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect267-1-foot" idref="sect267-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire a snap shot from the hip and send one of the clansmen somersaulting backwards out of the truck.<a id="sect267-1" idref="sect267-1-foot" class="footnote" /> But before you can get a bead on his confederate, he leaps head-first from the tailgate and pulls you to the floor. Desperately you wrestle to get free, but your gun is dashed from your grasp and you steel yourself for a tough hand-to-hand combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gator</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of your enemy's attack, you are unable to use a close combat weapon until the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you notice a bullet wound to the side of the biker's head and realize that he is dead. He is slumped forward over the handlebars in a racing pose, his right hand locked on the throttle and his weight balanced to keep the machine upright and fixed in a straight line.</p>
- <p>You scramble to your feet and throw yourself out of the path of the dead biker as relentlessly his machine approaches the gas pump.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the length of plastic tubing, you are able to siphon more than a gallon of gasolene from the truck's fuel tank. Once you are sure that you have retrieved as much fuel as possible, you seal the fuel can and call for Marine Knott to join you in the parking lot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You freeze for an instant, then raise your hands above your head slowly in a desperate attempt to save yourself by surrendering to the assassin. Unfortunately, your actions do not impress the cold-hearted murderer.</p>
- <p>With horror you see the muzzle of his rifle spit a core of yellow flame, then an agonizing pain erupts in the middle of your forehead. The impact lifts your feet off the ground, sending you sprawling against the courthouse wall. The pain disappears to be replaced by a numbness that clouds your vision and drains the last of your strength from your unfeeling limbs. An overwhelming desire to sleep assails your senses, and, although you fight to stay awake, it is a fight you have no hope of winning.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Tombstone, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'You ain't goin' no-place!' screams the clansman, fixing you with his flashlight. He stands silhouetted in the doorway, as his bloodhound lopes across the desks towards you. Automatically you reach for your gun, unaware that the clansman has taped his torch to the barrel of his machine pistol. Callously he watches as you struggle to free your weapon, then he pulls the trigger and cuts you down with a lethal hail of lead. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in El Paso.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Most of the more useful medicaments and supplies that once filled the shelves of this store were taken by the local inhabitants during the days of panic that followed 'The Day'. All that remains are a few bandages and some gauze<ch.emdash/>enough for one Medi-kit unit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ignition unit is lying on a work bench, exactly where Knott saw it when he first searched this section of the gas station. He examines it carefully and begins to smile. 'This'll do the job f' sure,' he says, and slips the unit into the pocket of his combat jacket.</p>
- <p>The thought of having to walk back to the truck in the blistering afternoon sun fills you both with dread. Then you remember the clansman's motorcycle, and you too begin to smile. Using the bike, it takes you little more than fifteen minutes to cover the ten miles of open road between Hachita and the truck. It is an exhilarating experience, made doubly so when, as you approach the truck, Haskell and Frankland mistake you for clan scouts and open fire at you with their machine pistols.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If your total score is 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If it is 4-7, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you bring the roadster back on to the freeway, Mad Dog draws up alongside. Kate empties her pistol at his head, but the clan leader just laughs: his speedster is equipped with bullet-proof glass and the slugs fail to penetrate. He sneers, and draws his finger across his throat before swerving towards you in an attempt to ram you off the road.</p>
- <p>If you are to avoid this ramming attack, you must take swift evasive action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to accelerate, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you choose to brake heavily, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you decide to swerve to the left, away from his attack, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In order to reach Highway 9, you have to pass within 100 yards of an adobe shack. It looks no different in style or state to a dozen others dotted around the town, but, unbeknown to you, this one is used as an outpost by the Mexicans who occupy Columbus.</p>
- <p>As the truck approaches, three clan lookouts emerge from the side door and walk slowly across the highway. Their leader, a fat-bellied renegade with grey hair and a drooping moustache, stops in the middle and raises a pudgy hand. Knott ignores his signal to stop. Instead, he steps on the gas and sends the three clansmen diving to avoid the truck. You roar past, but they are quick to recover and immediately they start firing at the tailgate.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Three clan lookouts walk slowly across the highway. Their leader raises a pudgy hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="562" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="562" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If it is 4-8, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The three other members of the sabotage team are waiting for you at an earth rampart that forms part of the southern perimeter wall. In a hushed voice, Captain Frankland gives a final briefing, while you join with the others in applying camouflage blacking to your face, and taping your weapons and equipment to muffle any noise. Five hundred yards away, across a rubble-strewn no-man's-land, clan snipers are entrenched behind a makeshift barricade of old cars and other debris. Their rifles are trained on Fort Bliss and, in the past, they have been all too eager to use them whenever a target has presented itself. Crossing this zone will be perilous in the extreme and, in order to minimize the risks of the mission failing here, the captain proposes that the team split into pairs and cross the zone at two separate locations. Each pair is to make its way through the enemy cordon and the city beyond, and then regroup at the Stanton Street Toll Bridge at 1 a.m. precisely. You synchronize watches before joining with your chosen partner, Marine Knott, in getting ready to go.</p>
- <p>There are two routes open to you. The most direct path will take you south, through the heart of El Paso where the enemy are most numerous. Or you can attempt a detour around the northern edge of the city before you try to reach the bridge, a longer but possibly less dangerous route.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to cross the zone heading south, directly towards the city, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you decide to cross the zone heading west, on a detour around the city, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a dull thump, followed by a loud hissing, as the sniper's bullet pierces the truck's rear tyre, releasing a stream of stale air.</p>
- <p>'Take cover,' shouts Frankland, and together you dive towards the pick-up and cower behind the passenger door. Knott has heard the shot and Frankland's warning, and has hidden himself among the pines that stand close to Haskell's grave.</p>
- <p>'If only we could see his position,' says the captain, as he unslings his machine pistol and checks the magazine. 'We'd at least have a fighting chance. This way he can circle round and pick us off at his leisure.'</p>
- <p>There is a second shot and another tyre deflates noisily. With your pulse beating like an express train, you reach to your gun and prepare for a firefight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to glance over the truck to see if you can locate the sniper's position, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you choose not to look, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For an instant his eyes widen with shock on seeing the muzzle of your rifle pointing directly at his chest, then he starts to pull away, looking for cover. He is almost obscured by a wall when you fire your first shot.</p>
- <p>Add together your Shooting skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect279-1-foot" idref="sect279-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire catches the Angelino clansman in the side and sends him tumbling from his machine.<a id="sect279-1" idref="sect279-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Simultaneously, however, you are hit by his burst of machine pistol fire, which knocks you off your feet. Pain fills your chest and a terrifying greyness clouds your vision. You hear voices, those of Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott, but you cannot make out what they are saying.</p>
- <p>Swiftly the pain subsides and, despite your efforts to stay conscious, you drift off into a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Mexico.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a concealed door in the wall behind you bursts open and in rushes the bearded man with a pistol clenched firmly in his hand.</p>
- <p>'Drop your guns!' he commands. 'Drop them now or the only talkin' you'll be doin' is to the Devil!'</p>
- <p>Slowly you let your gun fall to the floor, then you raise your hands and turn to face your ambusher.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gun the motorcycle along the wide trench until you find a rocky slope that offers a way back on to the highway. The ascent is difficult, and when you reach the crest of the gully, you fall and become pinned beneath your motorcycle. As you struggle to free yourself you notice that the cloud of dust has stopped less than half a mile distant. The outline of a man's head and shoulders can be seen leaning across the saddle, which is supporting a rifle.</p>
- <p>Chilled by the thought of your murdered companions, you renew your efforts to get free. You are pulling yourself upright when a shot rings out and an agonizing pain explodes in your left temple. The pain fills your head and courses down your spine, bringing you crashing back to the ground. The pain disappears, to be replaced by a numbness that dims your vision and drains the last of your strength from your unfeeling limbs. An overwhelming desire to sleep assails your senses, and, although you fight to stay awake, it is a fight you have no chance of winning.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the bottom of the steps you hear an angry voice shouting from the first floor window: your adversary is attempting to warn his partner that you have escaped. His shouting spurs you to greater effort and, despite your injuries, you run from the building through a maze of dark alleyways. Not until you are sure that you have not been followed do you stop to catch your breath and dress your wounds. It is then you discover that, during your fall through the window, you lost one piece of equipment from your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Erase the article noted second on your list of Backpack Items. If you have less than two Backpack Items, erase two Medi-kit units instead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">To continue, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually you reach firmer ground beyond the plateau and you are able to continue your descent through the forest with comparative ease. Soon you reach the stream that you discovered during your ascent, and you stop here briefly to try to determine if you area still being pursued. The surrounding trees seem unnaturally quiet, and it is easy to imagine that an assassin lurks behind every trunk.</p>
- <p>You continue, with trepidation, following the water as it flows west towards the Swisshelm Mountains. You cover twelve miles without incident and by early evening you arrive at a small bridge where a road, running north to south, crosses the stream. You check your <a idref="map">map</a>, but the road is too minor to be listed. You are hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to leave the stream and follow the road, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you choose to continue along the stream, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your companions quickly put paid to the clansmen with a volley of well-aimed shots, and immediately they come to your rescue. Strong hands grip your aching arms and haul you to safety, but before you can thank them, they turn and follow the captain towards a fire escape on the far side of the building. You pause just long enough to retrieve your backpack and belt, then you hurry after them before they disappear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bullet clips your arm (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) then hits Marine Knott, who is beside you in the passenger seat. The impact nearly hurls him out of the jeep, and, as he fights to prevent himself from falling, he grabs at your jacket, pulling your hands off the steering wheel. With a screech of tyres, the jeep veers off the freeway towards the exit ramp, and before you can regain control, you find yourself ascending the ramp towards Highway 80.</p>
- <p>In your driving mirror you see the clansmen turning their bikes around: they intend to pursue you. Unable to continue along the freeway, you are forced to put your foot to the floor and make a hasty escape heading south along Highway 80.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sergeant Haskell volunteers to go back to town with Marine Knott. While they are gone, you and Captain Frankland take it in turns to keep watch. During this time you must take two Drinks or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the room and approach the door at the end of the corridor with caution, taking care to tread lightly on the uneven floorboards to avoid making them creak. A small hatch, covered by a sliding panel of plywood, is positioned in the centre of the door at head height. You guess that it is a spy-hole.</p>
- <p>You place your ear to the door, directly below the covered hatch, and hear muffled voices in the room beyond. Although you cannot make out what is being said, you can tell that they are very frightened. Gently you lift the latch, only to discover that the door is locked on the inside.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If the number is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the freeway, the ground slopes away towards a unit of industrial buildings, all extensively damaged by the post-holocaust storms. Clan patrols, many with dogs, are active in the vicinity but the ruined factories provide enough cover for you to avoid them without too much difficulty.</p>
- <p>You make good progress until you reach a wide highway once known as Dyer Street. A clan command station, complete with equipment dumps and a vehicle workshop, has been set up among the stores bordering this main street. It crosses your mind that the stores must contain weapons and provisions that would be useful to the colony, but when you lose count of the number of clansmen that are entering and leaving them, you abandon the idea of a raid and concentrate on the mission in hand.</p>
- <p>In order to avoid the clan command station you are forced to follow Dyer Street south, towards the heart of the city. You have covered more than a mile before you reach a place, close to the Municipal Park, where you are able to cross the street without risk of being seen. Once safely across, you enter the park and continue on your way west. As you reach the west side exit, a truck appears, catching you in the glare of its headlights. You both freeze, fearing the worst. It continues to approach, then, with a screech of brakes, it veers aside and stops nearby. The driver jumps from the cab and, without a word, strides off towards a building directly opposite the park.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you wish to take a closer look at the truck, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you choose to ignore the truck and hurry away before the driver returns, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the spring and follow the trail as it ascends towards a wooded summit overlooking the plateau. During your climb you catch sight of Chiricahua Peak, a majestic, tree-clad mountain to the north, and you stop for a few minutes to enjoy the view. You are about to press on when you detect something moving among the trees ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ> or a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ>, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the centre of the race track is lit, enabling you to approach a position directly opposite the trucks without being seen. But the minutes pass slowly as you await an opportunity to dash across the track and plant your mines. Sergeant Haskell and the captain seize the first opportunity and make it across the track safely. Once they are hidden beneath their targets they signal to you to join them as quickly as you can. Four long minutes tick by before you get the chance to reach the second truck. When it presents itself, you tense yourself like a coiled spring and propel yourself forward, sprinting head-down across the track towards your target. You are within a few feet of the vehicle when a Mexican clansman suddenly appears and walks directly in your path: a collision is unavoidable.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth and Perception skill total. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add the number you pick to your combined skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If your final score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If your final score is 9-13, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If your final score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shot rings out barely a second after you rise from cover, but the speed of your reflexes saves you from being hit. The awful suddenness and accuracy of the sniper's shot makes you think twice about trying to spot him a second time. Then out of the corner of your eye you see the captain cock his machine pistol and get ready to open fire.</p>
- <p>'OK, I'm gonna see if I can flush this Yankee out,' he says vehemently, clearly unimpressed by how near you came to death. 'When I start firin', you see if you can pinpoint where he is.'</p>
- <p>You nod in uneasy agreement and get ready to glance around the tailgate the instant the captain opens fire. 'Let's do it!' he says, as he rises above the cover of the truck and squeezes off a burst of automatic fire. The noise of his gun drowns out the sniper's shot, but within a second of breaking cover, Frankland is hit. With the machine pistol still chattering in his hands, he falls backwards and crashes to the ground, the assassin's bullet lodged deep in his skull.</p>
- <p>The shock of Frankland's death, following so closely after Sergeant Haskell's and so nearly after your own, hits you like an icy shower. You cower behind the truck, shivering with fear, afraid that you will be next. For a terrible moment, the fear wells up and consumes you, and all you want to do is run as far away and as fast as you can. Despite Knott's pleas to stay where you are, you scramble to your feet and stumble blindly towards the woods. In your haste, you trip and fall, grazing your hands and knees on the flint-sharp shale: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Inadvertently, your fall saves your life. A shot passes over your head a second after you stumble, missing you by a hand's breadth. The imminent danger clears your mind and you race towards the trees with a determination to survive. Knott encourages you to increase your speed and you pray that you will reach cover before the sniper has a chance to slip another round into the breech of his rifle.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. [Note: If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill total.]</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If your total scores is 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If it is 16-19, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath you watch as Sergeant Haskell and Captain Frankland stalk towards the jeep. The two Mavericks are oblivious of their presence as they circle around silently and creep up on them from behind. A heavy, belt-fed machine gun, mounted on a column behind the front seats, helps to conceal their approach until they are crouching behind the jeep itself.</p>
- <p>For a few seconds there is absolute silence, then you see them leap forward and grapple the unsuspecting clansmen, striking swiftly and silently. As soon as it is all over, the captain signals to you and Knott to join them. You rush to the jeep and help the sergeant search the Mavericks' bodies before hiding them in the bus depot.</p>
- <p>On your return to the vehicle, Captain Frankland offers you the opportunity to drive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to drive the jeep, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to let the captain drive, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As they approach, the clansmen train their spotlight on the jeep's windscreen in an attempt to blind Captain Frankland. Despite the glare, he controls the vehicle admirably, veering away at the last moment to avoid collision with the oncoming truck. As the pick-up flashes past, you swing around and open fire at its trunk.</p>
- <p>The heavy-calibre rounds riddle the running gear and tear the back tyres to shreds. It sends the truck into a violent skid, and then there is a tremendous bang as the fuel tank explodes. As the captain accelerates away on to the freeway, you watch in silence as a huge ball of billowing orange flame engulfs the remains of the truck and its passengers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By keeping strictly to the alleys and side streets you are able to avoid the occasional clan patrol and you soon reach the banks of the Rio Grande without being seen. Then you work your way west towards the Stanton Street Toll Bridge, the only bridge still spanning this once-great waterway. A cluster of old US immigration offices standing at the approach to the bridge provide a safe place for you and Knott to hide while you wait for the others to show.</p>
- <p>'Where are they?' you whisper, glancing anxiously at your wristwatch. The time is 0055, five minutes before the hour you are due to rendezvous, but the waiting is making you nervous.</p>
- <p>'We're here!' hisses a voice from behind. It is so unexpected that you nearly jump out of your skin.</p>
- <p>Captain Frankland and Sergeant Haskell emerge from the shadows and hurry forward to join you. They apologize for giving you such a scare, but you can tell by the wide grins on their faces that they are clearly amused by your jumpy reaction. They arrived a few minutes ahead of you and Knott, and they have already scouted the bridge. There are four clan guards on the bridge itself but none at all on the service walkway beneath it.</p>
- <p>'We've an hour before the explosives are due to arrive,' says the captain, checking his watch. 'Everyone ready?'</p>
- <p>You nod in unison. 'OK then. Let's go!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to make a dash for the clump of foliage before the sniper circles around the crater and picks you off at his leisure. With sweat-slick hands you raise your gun and get ready to fire as you run for cover.</p>
- <p>Note: If Your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items now, in order to increase your Stealth skill score before you attempt your run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you are holding a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect296-1-foot" idref="sect296-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire hits the clan leader in the chest, killing him outright.<a id="sect296-1" idref="sect296-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Realization of his death passes like a shock wave through the other clansmen, bringing them to an abrupt halt. They abort their attack and fall back, a few stopping just long enough to pick up and bear his lifeless body away from the street.</p>
- <p>While there is a lull in the firing, you seize the chance to help Knott and Captain Frankland clear away the debris that is blocking your escape. A thick, wooden pole, which once supported overhead electricity cables in this part of town, is jammed between the wheel and the truck's front fender. With your help, they are at last able to shift it and Knott returns to the cab and starts the engine first time. As he brings the truck over the mound, you and the captain leap on to the tailgate and pull yourselves aboard.</p>
- <p>The street ends at a piece of wasteland but a few hundred yards beyond it lies a highway, running east to west. The captain peers through the cab's partition window and gives an ironic laugh when he sees the highway.</p>
- <p>'Make for that road and head west,' he commands, and Knott obeys. Then he turns to the sergeant and says, 'It looks like you're finally outvoted, Haskell. Seems we're on our way to Mimbres.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait until the clansman's footsteps have faded before you come out from beneath the table and return to the window. After several abortive attempts, you manage to free the lock. You then prise open the window and leave the building unseen via the fire escape stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instantly you know that the motorcycle approaching Tombstone is being ridden by the assassin who murdered your three companions. The fear that has haunted you during the past two days returns once more to tighten your stomach as hurriedly you search for somewhere to hide. The Tombstone courthouse is the nearest building and you rush into its lobby as the assassin rides into town.</p>
- <p>Ahead the doors to the courtroom are chained and padlocked, preventing easy entry, so you look for somewhere else to hide in this old, historical building. Two options present themselves: you can climb a wide staircase to the first floor, or you can run along a corridor that leads away to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you decide to follow the corridor, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you raise your gun and take aim at the approaching rider. He is less than ten yards away when you shoot your first round of fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the highway twenty-five miles across Cochise County and, shortly before mid-afternoon, you arrive at a junction with Interstate 10. From here it is only a short ride west to the town of Benson, where you stop to take a closer look at the tyre tracks that are etched in the freeway's dusty surface. You are convinced that they are made by the DC1 convoy, and you hazard a guess that they are at least a day old.</p>
- <p>You are about to leave the tracks and return to your newly acquired motorcycle when you hear something that sets your heart racing. It is the voice of a young woman and she is calling out your name.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119"><link-text>Turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You disappear from his sights before the clan commander can open fire, but the speed of your move may not be enough to save you. This man is an expert shot and his assault rifle is loaded with armour-piercing rounds. He sprays a long burst of fire across the rear of the truck, and, as the first of the bullets punch through the metal tailgate, you flatten yourself to the floor, praying that they will not hit you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you more than an hour to explain the events and circumstances that have led to your uninvited arrival at this secret mountain retreat. The family of survivalists, which comprises Jack and Steve Lendorff, their wives, Marian and Carly, and their children, Sissy and Bruce, listen with interest to your story, but they never once lower their guard or their guns.</p>
- <p>At length, you learn that they bought this land and built the shelter ten years ago, at the time when HAVOC was bringing the civilized world to its knees. After 'The Day' this region, owing to its geographical location, was spared the worst of the post-holocaust blizzards. Its most important resource was fresh water and, as a result of this, the family was able to achieve and maintain its self-sufficiency.</p>
- <p>They have a radio receiver and they are aware of the existence of other colonies, notably the one at Tucson, and of the situation that exists in California, but they have made no effort to contact other survivors or to join with other groups. Long ago they made a conscious decision to remain separate from the rest of the world, and they see no reason to change their minds.</p>
- <p>'Do you know what the Californians call this part of the country?' asks Jack Lendorff, offhandedly. 'They call it the Omega Zone. They think of it as a wilderness, useless and uninhabitable. A forbidden area. They've written it off. As far as they're concerned we simply don't exist!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You point to the left and motion Knott to follow as you crawl silently along the ditch, away from the clansmen's position. Fifty yards later, you reach a drainage tunnel. It is impossible to pass any further in this direction, for the roof of the tunnel has collapsed and sealed the entrance.</p>
- <p>We'll have to make a run for the freeway,' you whisper. 'I'll lead.'</p>
- <p>When the coast looks clear, you clamber out of the ditch and move forward, crouching as you run, your eyes fixed on a shadowy archway ahead. You have covered only a few yards when you hear a faint noise somewhere on the freeway above. There is, a flash, then a beam of torchlight pours down from the barrier parapet and sweeps across your path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it your current Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch the assassin reload his rifle with a banana-shaped magazine that he inserts in a slot in front of the trigger. Then he shoulders the weapon and takes up a pair of binocular-like field glasses, which hang from a strap around his neck. He places them to his visor and methodically scans the surrounding rooftops. It seems a curious thing to do as the buildings are very close: surely he does not need binoculars to be able to see if anyone is standing on top of them? Then a chill stabs your heart when he scans the windows and you realize that he is not using a regular pair of binoculars: they are sophisticated, high-resolution, image intensifiers.</p>
- <p>Immediately you duck back from the window, but you fear that he has already located your position.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lean over and look along the ground at the truck ahead. There you see the captain, crouching beneath it, who signals to you to place your contact mine in position. The heavy disc locks itself against the dusty tank with a reassuring clunk, and you uncover its detonator button carefully. Once again the captain signals and once again you obey his command, this time by pressing the button. As soon as you hear the timing mechanism begin to tick, you close your Backpack and make a dash for the truck that Knott has commandeered.</p>
- <p>Frankland and Haskell join your escape: the captain is running twenty yards ahead of you and the sergeant, who has had to place two mines, is trailing behind you by about the same distance. Knott sees you in the side mirror and starts the truck, smoke belching from the exhaust pipe as he revs the reluctant engine. The captain reaches the rear and clambers over the tailgate just as a couple of clansmen notice you running and start shouting wildly. Their screams distract your attention and you fail to notice a metal tool locker that is lying on the ground directly in your path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep your head low, making sure that it stays well below the parapet wall while all around the air is alive with the whistle and screech of bullets. The others return fire, and, within a few minutes, the clansmen have been silenced to a man. Then you hear the captain bark the order, 'Follow me!', and see Knott and Haskell leave the wall to run after him. He is heading towards a fire escape ladder on the far side of the roof. You pause just long enough to retrieve your Backpack and belt, then you hurry after them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wearily you drag yourself to your feet, wipe the grit from your eyes, then stagger towards your motorcycle. You are expecting to find little more than a twisted heap of scrap metal, so it comes as a welcome surprise to discover that the machine is still in working order. After straightening the handlebars, the headlight, and the front wheel alignment, you are able to restart the engine with your third kick.</p>
- <p>You follow the wide trench until you find a suitable place, on the far side of the rockfalls to make your exit. The ascent is accomplished without difficulty, but as you clear the crest of the gully and bring your motorcycle to a stop, you notice something that makes you break out in a cold sweat.</p>
- <p>From the eastern end of the gully a cloud of dust is approaching. It is over a mile distant, but at once you can tell that it is being kicked up by a motorcycle. You stare at the approaching machine and, although you cannot see the rider, you know that it is the assassin. Chilled by his proximity, you wind back the throttle and gun your bike along the bumpy mountain road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You realize too late that the biker is already dead, killed as he sped over the bridge by a ricocheting bullet. He is slumped forward over the handlebars in a racing pose, his right hand locked on the throttle and his weight balanced to keep the machine upright and fixed in a straight line.</p>
- <p>You try to get clear but in your panic you mistime your dive. With a fearful crash, the motorcycle ploughs into the gas pump and explodes in a ball of bright flame, catching you in mid-leap. The last thing you see is a blinding yellow flash as you are engulfed by the blazing inferno. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you life and your mission end here in Mexico.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The growl of motorcycle engines can be heard approaching from the south, yet you can see no sign of their headlights in the near-darkness that blankets the land. Then you spot a glint of chrome reflecting the pale pre-dawn twilight, and suddenly there is a piercing blue-white glare as six black-clad clansmen simultaneously switch on their headlights as they race along Highway 80 towards the intersection. Their machines are drawn up in a perfect wedge formation, giving them the semblance of a giant, fiery arrow-head as they come speeding down the freeway access ramp towards your jeep. Now, as they close in, you see that the riders are wearing black face-protectors, which are fitted with infra-red lenses, enabling them to see in the dark without the need for artificial light. They are all heavily armed, and the pennons that flutter from the whiplash aerials fixed to their saddles identify them as scouts for the Detroit Lions clan.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Their machines are drawn up in a perfect wedge formation, they come speeding towards your jeep.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="506" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="506" />
- </illustration>
- <p>These scouts are part of a group that were based in Ciudad Juarez. You notice that each machine carries a radio and you realize that they must have been directed by Mad Dog Michigan to intercept you. Several of their closest comrades died at the Juarez Race Track and they have sworn to avenge their deaths by wiping you out.</p>
- <p>'Get going, Cal!' shouts Captain Frankland, as he drops the now empty can and leaps into the jeep. You start the engine and accelerate straight at the oncoming wedge of bikers. They see you and part formation, firing their pistols at point-blank range as they stream past on either side.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If your total is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pause just long enough to search the bodies before you make your escape from the parking lot. Your search uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Machine Pistol (containing eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Pistol (containing seven rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen [containing enough water for three Drinks]</li>
- <li>Hunting Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Baseball Bat (2)</li>
- <li>Enough canned food for two Meals</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Signal Flare</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">To continue, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you follow the steep trail as it ascends towards the outcrop. The climb is difficult but your perseverance is rewarded when you reach the top and discover a plateau that commands a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountain timberlands. Then, as you scan the horizon, you hear something that is far more exciting than the wondrous view: it is the sound of running water.</p>
- <p>With high expectations, you and Knott re-enter the forest, determined to investigate the sound. You have covered less than fifty yards when you discover the source: a spring of clear, sparkling water cascading from a crack in the mountainside. Knott is elated by the find and rushes forward to drink his fill. You are more cautious: you control the strong urge to drink and warn your companion of the high possibility that the water is contaminated.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If your Field Craft skill total is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If it is not, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush forward to barge the leading clansman with your shoulder. The force and surprise of your attack sends him flying out of the truck, but your move leaves you vulnerable to his confederate, who immediately leaps upon you before you can regain your balance.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mustang</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of his attack, you are unable to use a close combat weapon until the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The engine emits the ominous sound of grinding metal and immediately the rattling ceases. Unfortunately, so too does the engine. The piston has become so hot that the rings that seal it have welded themselves to the bore. At once you realize what has happened, and, as you steer the powerless machine to the side of the street, you are filled with dread at the prospect of having to continue your journey on foot. You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are staring gloomily at the ruined machine, considering your next course of action, when you hear a vehicle approaching. Your dread deepens when you look up to see an all-too-familiar dust cloud approaching the town from the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Half-way along the main street you discover a used car lot that specialized in commercial and recreational vehicles. The faded billboards boast that 'only the best vehicles are to be found here', but sadly this claim is long out-of-date. Most of the trucks and RVs are totally wrecked, and nearly all have tyres and batteries that have perished during the post-holocaust years. A battered Toyota pick-up rests on its side, hardly warranting a second glance until you notice that its tyres are still sound. Knott helps you to heave it back on to all four wheels and then goes to fetch the others while you make a closer examination of the engine. Apart from a dead battery and lack of fuel, the pick-up is in remarkably good condition.</p>
- <p>You are checking the air filter when the others arrive. Although they have not been able to locate a vehicle in better condition, their search has not been entirely fruitless. They did find some gasolene, which Sergeant Haskell proceeds to pour into the pick-up's fuel tank.</p>
- <p>'That solves one problem,' you say, as you replace the air filter, 'but we'll still need some electrical power to get this engine started.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess a <typ class="item">Solar Regulator</typ>, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your face to the ground, you peer under a row of cars to see the clansmen's feet as they reach the base of the ramp. For a few seconds the men remain stationary, then they split up and begin to search along the rows in your immediate vicinity. Carefully you ease yourself under a pick-up truck and watch with growing fear as one of the clansmen walks slowly towards your hiding place.</p>
- <p>He stops beside the pick-up, his boots inches away from your chest. Automatically you tense yourself in readiness to strike should he show the slightest indication that he has found you. He starts to move away, then hesitates. Slowly he begins to kneel.</p>
- <p>At that moment you lash out like a striking cobra and catch him in the leg with the heel of your boot. He screams and falls backwards, clutching his dislocated knee. This allows you the few seconds you need to roll out from under the truck and to gain the upper hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Camaro</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the effects of your surprise attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first two rounds of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If the fight lasts five rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The voices stop, and a few seconds later the spy-hole cover slides open an inch. An eye appears at the gap.</p>
- <p>It stares down at you, widens with shock, then disappears from view. Cursing your luck, you start to move back from the door and have retreated a few yards when something else appears, something that makes you gulp with fear. It is the barrel of a semi-automatic pistol, and it is pointed at your chest.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If your total score is 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If your total is 13-19, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If it is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run to the trash can and haul yourself over its thick steel rim just as the first of the bikers reaches the apex of the bridge. Seconds later the captain's voice bellows the order: 'Open fire!' Immediately the others obey, strafing the Angelinos as they speed off the bridge. Two riders are hit and fall from their machines; a third has his front tyre shot out and loses control, crashing into the parapet; but the last rider appears to escape injury and comes screaming over the bridge with his front wheel raised defiantly. As he approaches you he raises his machine pistol one-handedly and looses off a burst of automatic fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to remain standing and return fire as the biker speeds past, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you choose to avoid his fire by ducking below the rim of the trash can, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the hardware store and return to your motorcycle. Before you start the engine you make a cursory check of the cooling fins and notice that they are very hot to the touch: the lack of oil is causing the engine to overheat. As you remount the machine and kick start the engine, you pray that it will run just long enough to get you back to the colony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dog begins to whine excitedly. He lopes into the room, following the trail of your scent towards the window where he paces back and forth until his master calls him to heel. Quickly he obeys, the scars on his body bearing testimony to past punishments for reacting too slowly to his master's command. You hear the clansman approaching, then see him standing at the window staring out at the fire escape. Thoughtfully he scratches his unshaven chin, then calls his dog once more and turns to leave.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth and Field Craft totals. Then pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance 0 = 10).</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If your total skill score is equal to, or less than, the number you have picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If your total skill score is greater than the number you picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike your killing blow with your right hand and cover the clansman's mouth with your left to prevent him screaming. The captain has dealt with his adversary and has already given a signal to Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott. They reach the jeep, return your equipment, and then help the captain to search the Mavericks' bodies before hiding them in the bus depot. Of the items that are found, you can choose from the following three:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Six rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Bowie Knife (3)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>On returning to the vehicle, Captain Frankland offers you the opportunity to drive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to drive the jeep, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to let the captain drive, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle to control your car as it skids off the freeway and slews sideways towards the crash barrier. The roadster collides with it, but at such an acute angle that you are able to regain control almost immediately. The impact leaves you shaken, but otherwise you and Kate survive the collision unharmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets ricochet from the rear and whistle past on every side, forcing you to duck behind the tailgate for cover. Your swift reflexes save you from being hit. As you lower your head, you glimpse the clan leader running into the middle of the highway, his hand outstretched to pick up a walkie-talkie that must have dropped from his pocket. As you cower behind the tailgate you suddenly realize that he could attempt to radio another clan outpost, perhaps one in Mimbres, or one further along the highway, and forewarn them of your arrival.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to attempt to shoot the clansman, to prevent him from using the radio, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you have insufficient ammunition, or do not wish to fire at him, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw back the bolt of your G-12 and make a quick check of the magazine to ensure that you have sufficient bullets to cover yourself. Then, with your pulse pounding loudly in your ears, you get ready to run to the forest.</p>
- <p>Slowly you count down from five and, the moment your count is complete, you leap to your feet and scramble up the steps. As you clear the crater, you fix your destination and sprint towards it, your machine pistol blazing at your hip.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. To this total add 1 point for every burst you choose to fire from your machine pistol (minimum: one burst; maximum: five bursts).</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leader of the Detroit Lions is standing with a group of Mexicans in front of a large canvas tent pitched in the centre of the track. He is shouting, and clearly he is very angry, although you cannot hear what he is saying above the mechanical din of the generators that are supplying electricity to the track's floodlights. An assortment of vehicles is parked haphazardly around the tents, and at least fifty clansmen, perhaps more, are hovering in the area. They all seem very nervous, many of them glancing repeatedly at their wristwatches as they pace back and forth. You look at your own watch and see that the time is 0225; no wonder they are so edgy<ch.emdash/>the convoy is late.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Clearly he is very angry, although you cannot hear what he is saying above the din of the generators</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="618" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="618" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'Look over there, Captain,' whispers Knott, pointing at a large, six-wheeled truck that is parked at the side of the track, close to the dog traps. 'It's an old Defence League three-tonner, just like the one I used to drive in Brownsville. They ain't fast but they can take a lot of punishment. It might be just what we need if we have to ram our way outta here.'</p>
- <p>'OK, Knott. You've convinced me,' replies the captain. 'She looks like she's been left unguarded, so you get on over there and get aboard. We'll join you as soon as the mines are set, so you just be sure she's ready to go, y' hear.'</p>
- <p>'Yessir,' says Knott. He is about to leave the group when the captain grabs him by the arm. 'Hold it, you'd better give the sergeant your contact mine.'</p>
- <p>Knott fishes the device from his haversack and passes it to Haskell. Then he leaves, and all three of you watch as he makes his way slowly around the perimeter, using what cover he can find. He reaches the truck and climbs aboard. Moments later there is a tremendous noise<ch.emdash/>a siren that fills the race track with a deafening clangour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164"><link-text>Turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Hey, you up there!' you shout, in as friendly a voice as you can muster. You try hard not to sound threatening, but the unexpected sound of your voice startles the man. Immediately he dashes away from the trail and runs deeper into the forest. Rather than let him get away, you beckon Knott to follow as you give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes less than twenty minutes to reach the tiny mountain town of Mimbres but you find no welcome awaiting you there. The place is deserted, its buildings, all save two derelict stores at its centre, have long since collapsed. There is nothing to be gained by stopping here, so Captain Frankland orders Knott to continue without slowing.</p>
- <p>Beyond Mimbres, the highway begins a steady climb into the Cedar Mountains. You stay alert, anticipating clan contact at any time, but the rocky landscape seems devoid of life. The temperature rises with the sun, and when you see the town of Hachita, perched near the western edge of a wide box canyon, all four of you are beginning to feel the ill effects of dehydration and salt deficiency.</p>
- <p>You are approaching Hachita when Knott calls the captain to the cab window. The truck's fuel gauge was registering full when you left Ciudad Juarez, but the needle has now slipped to below the quarter mark and he fears that there may not be enough gasolene left to reach Lordsburg. Hachita looks as empty as Mimbres, so Captain Frankland orders him to stop there to search for some fuel.</p>
- <p>As you reach a crossroads in the centre of the town, Knott stops the truck at a gas station that was once part of a shopping mart. You disembark and Sergeant Haskell quickly discovers the reason for the truck's poor fuel consumption: there are three bullet holes in the petrol tank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you wish to help the sergeant fix the damaged tank, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you decide to help Frankland and Knott search the gas station for some fuel, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moments later there is a crash of breaking glass and you catch sight of something vaguely resembling a can of food as it flies through the window. It bounces on the carpeted floor and immediately there is a flash, followed by a stream of sickly, cream-coloured gas that shoots from its base. As the gas fills the room rapidly, your throat tightens and your eyes stream. A wave of nausea hits you and frantically you rush from the room before it fills to the ceiling with noxious tear gas: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Coughing and retching, you stagger along the corridor and down a flight of stairs that leads to a fire exit at the rear of the building. Desperate for clean air, you kick its locking bar and stumble out into the courthouse yard. You have taken just two steps when the assassin comes rushing around the corner of the courthouse with his rifle in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess a missile weapon and sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect328-1-foot" idref="sect328-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire is accurate<ch.emdash/>it hits the biker in the head<ch.emdash/>but it does not divert his machine.<a id="sect328-1" idref="sect328-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The fact is, the biker is already dead, killed by a ricocheting bullet as he sped over the bridge. He is slumped forward over the handlebars in a racing pose, his right hand locked on the throttle and his weight balanced to keep his machine upright and fixed in a straight line.</p>
- <p>In desperation you scramble to your feet to throw yourself out of the path of the bike, but you have left it too late. With a fearful crash, the motorcycle ploughs into the gas pump and explodes in a ball of bright flame. The last thing you see is a blinding yellow flash as you are engulfed by the blazing inferno. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in Mexico.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Nice work, Cal,' says Captain Frankland, as he climbs into the back of the Toyota.</p>
- <p>'Yeah, well done,' says Haskell, echoing the captain's sentiments. 'I sure weren't looking forward to hoofin' it all the way t' Tucson, I can tell you.'</p>
- <p>He vaults into the back beside the captain then extends his right hand to help you aboard. You are reaching out to grip his palm when you hear the sharp crack of a gunshot. Haskell raises his hand to his forehead, a look of shocked surprise registering on his strong, angular face. Then his eyes roll back to reveal just the whites, and a trickle of blood oozes from a neat hole two inches above his nose. He wavers and then falls limply across the tailgate.</p>
- <p>For an unknown length of time you stare at Haskell's face, oblivious to your surroundings, until the frantic thumping of your heart begins to subside. A sick feeling hits you in waves and you are unable to move. Then you feel yourself being lifted and pulled into the truck by the front of your leather jacket. Captain Frankland is screaming at Knott to drive away as fast as he can. As the back wheels spin and the Toyota begins to accelerate, the horror of witnessing Haskell's death at such close quarters makes you shiver with shock: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The truck races out of Rodeo and within minutes you are crossing the state border into Arizona. Respectfully, Captain Frankland covers the sergeant's face with his combat jacket, and, although your minds are full of unanswered questions, you say nothing to each other until Knott brings the truck to a halt at the edge of a great expanse of mountain timberland once known as the Coronado National Forest.</p>
- <p>'It must have been a clan sniper,' says Frankland, his voice uncharacteristically quiet. 'I didn't see a thing, did you?'</p>
- <p>You and Knott shake your heads silently, both deeply saddened by the loss of your brave companion. For Knott it is a specially bitter blow, for he and Haskell survived the post-holocaust years together at the WDL base in Brownsville, Texas.</p>
- <p>'We had better take care of the burial right away,' says Frankland, scanning the surrounding landscape. 'There's no sign of anyone following us on the highway. It should be safe to bury him here.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your left hand to shield your eyes from the glare of the spotlight. They are trying to blind you as they approach, but you are more than a match for them. You shout to the others to hold tight and, when they are nearly upon you, you swerve aside, bringing the jeep to a controlled halt at the edge of the highway.</p>
- <p>Captain Frankland is the first to recover and quickly mans the heavy machine gun. The pick-up completes a spectacular 180-degree turn and comes racing back, but he is waiting for them. They are thirty yards away when he cocks the weapon and opens fire.</p>
- <p>The heavy-calibre rounds riddle the engine and tear the cab to shreds. The truck starts to skid, then there is a tremendous bang as the fuel tank explodes. As you accelerate on to the freeway, you glance in the driving mirror to see a huge ball of billowing orange flame engulf the remains of the truck and its passengers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of being fired at by the captain and Sergeant Haskell freezes you with fear. You are unable to react quickly enough to avoid the first wave of bullets and, as they slam into the front of the motorcycle and tear the wheel to shreds, you lose control of the machine. Without the tyre to absorb the bumps and holes that litter the road, the machine becomes a bucking bronco. The bars twist in your hands and you are flung head-first into a gully at the side of the highway.</p>
- <p>Marine Knott survives the crash but you are not so fortunate. You suffer fatal head injuries on impact and death is virtually instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch in a hollow behind two large boulders, which top this mound, and peer through a gap at the approaching dust cloud. The motorcycle slows down, then leaves the highway and descends into the gully before accelerating towards you along the dry bed. It comes to a halt within a few hundred yards of your position, and although you can see the rider dismounting, he is too far away to discern his features.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ> or a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ>, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman crashes against the truck and falls to the ground in a dazed heap. Although you are bruised by the collision, you are able to stay on your feet, and you seize the initiative. Half-concussed, the swarthy Mexican fumbles blindly for his pistol, but before he can draw and fire it, a well-placed kick to the chin knocks him out cold.</p>
- <p>Quickly you drag his body under the truck and prop him out of sight behind the rear wheels, before turning your attention to the vehicle's fuel tank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65"><link-text>Turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the store room you discover a narrow corridor lit by several low-voltage electric light bulbs mounted in the ceiling. In the glow of their pale, yellowy light, you notice a bolt on the store room door. You lock it, hoping to deter the sniper should he try to follow you into the shelter.</p>
- <p>As you progress along the corridor you discover three doors. The first is to your left; the second is directly opposite the first; and the third lies at the end of the passage, just a few yards ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to investigate the door to your left, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to examine the door to your right, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you choose to continue walking towards the door at the end of the corridor, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon the truck is beyond the range of the clansmen's rifles and you are able to pick yourself up off the floor. Your body feels stiff and sore, but at least both you and Sergeant Haskell are still in one piece. Then the truck begins to decelerate; when it stops, Captain Frankland leaves the cab and comes around to the back to check that you are both all right.</p>
- <p>'We're fine,' you reply, 'bruised, but otherwise just fine.'</p>
- <p>You help the captain climb over the tailgate. As soon as he is aboard, Knott re-starts the engine and you continue your journey west along Highway 9.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All the advanced driving skills that you learned from Cutter Jacks, and which you perfected during the months you patrolled the highways around McKinney, pay off now as you negotiate this hazardous section of mountain highway. However, the clansmen are equally proficient roadmasters and they are gaining on you, relentlessly closing the gap.</p>
- <p>The more you think about your predicament, the more you realize how futile it is to try to outrun them. Even if you were able to defeat all the scouts, Mad Dog Michigan would simply send more and more until his lust for vengeance had finally been sated. Then an idea occurs to you that might just throw him off your trail for good. If you were able to convince the enemy that you were dead, it would put an end to their pursuit. You share your thoughts with the others and they agree with your reasoning.</p>
- <p>'You're right, Cal. We'll have to stage an accident and convince the clansmen that we've all been killed.' says Captain Frankland.</p>
- <p>Soon you reach a part of the mountains where a deep canyon borders the road. Here you bring the jeep to a halt and immediately set about preparing the 'accident'. You push the vehicle to the edge of the road, then light a rag, which Haskell has stuffed into the gasolene filler pipe. It ignites and once it is burning you give the jeep a push and send it careering over the edge into the canyon 300 feet below. After the resounding crash, you hear the clansmen approaching and you quickly take cover behind some boulders. To make it seem more realistic, Marine Knott drops his bloodstained tunic at the edge of the road before he joins you, seconds before the first clansmen appear on the scene.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aiming from the hip, you bring your G-12 machine pistol to bear on the leading biker, your finger starting to squeeze as the muzzle levels off at a spot two feet above the motorcycle's blazing headlight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retrieve the flare from your Backpack and carefully examine the instructions printed along its side. It is an aerial flare, designed to shoot a burning core of red fire 300 feet into the sky. if you intend to use it to distract the sniper, you will need to fire it straight at him.</p>
- <p>The sniper's position is etched clearly in your mind. Nervously you grasp the signal flare tube and take hold of its pull-cord, then you spring to your feet and fire. It recoils in your hand, sending a blaze of red fire surging towards the assassin's position. The moment you see it strike the scrub, you discard the smouldering tube and race up the steps. As you clear the crater you try to make out your destination through the swirling curtain of red smoke now masking the pines.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth and Perception skill totals. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calmly you raise your shotgun, your thumb releasing the auto-safety as the stock beds snugly into your shoulder. Bullets whistle past, frighteningly close, but you force yourself to ignore them as you take aim calmly at the clan commander. For an instant his eyes widen with shock when he sees the barrel of your shotgun pointing in his direction. Then he starts to pull away and is almost obscured by a wall when you loose off your first shot.</p>
- <p>Add together your Shooting skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain screams and throws his hands to his face: he has been hit. Blood oozes thickly through his fingers as he crumples slowly to the ground, the assassin's bullet lodged deeply in his skull.</p>
- <p>The shock of Frankland's death, following so closely after Sergeant Haskell's, hits you like an icy shower. You cower behind the truck, shivering with fear, afraid that you will be next. For a terrible moment the fear consumes you, and all you want to do is run as far and as fast as you can. Knott has taken cover among the pines and he pleads with you to stay where you are. But you cannot think clearly; panic has overwhelmed your senses. Blindly, you scramble to your feet and stumble towards the woods and, in your haste, you trip and fall, skinning your hands and knees on the flint-sharp shale: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Inadvertently, your fall saves your life. A shot passes over your head a second after you stumble, missing you by a hand's breadth. The imminent danger clears your mind and you race towards the trees with renewed determination to survive. Knott encourages you to increase your speed and you pray that you will reach cover before the sniper has a chance to work another round into the breech of his rifle.</p>
- <p>Add together your Stealth skill total and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (Note. If Your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is low and you are heavily encumbered, it may be advisable to discard some of your Backpack Items in order to increase your Stealth skill total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If your total score is 15 or less, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If it is 16<ch.emdash/>19, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At such close range, your gunfire shatters the wooden lock (remember to erase the appropriate amount of ammunition from your Ammo Pouch). As the smoke clears, you call Knott to support your attack, then you run forward and kick open the door.</p>
- <p>It slams back against the wall and immediately you step aside to allow Knott to rush into the room beyond, crouching in combat stance, is pistol held before him, ready to fire. No shots are fired, and when you enter the room, you discover that the bearded man has vanished.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell the others that you think the team should attempt to break through the Columbus road block.</p>
- <p>'Well, it looks like we got ourselves what the French call an 'impasse',' says the captain, as he reaches to the breast pocket of his combat jacket. 'There's only one way to solve this<ch.ellips/>' So saying, he withdraws a coin<ch.emdash/>a commemorative AD2000 silver dollar.</p>
- <p>'Heads we hit Columbus; tails we avoid it,' he says, and flips the coin into the air.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cursory examination of the door confirms your fears: it is far too thick to be sawn open. However, a closer examination of the air vent reveals that it was once a much larger window that has recently been partially boarded over. Confident that you can gain entry this way, you set about sawing through the slats.</p>
- <p>It is exhausting work, and before you make a hole large enough to climb through, you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to fatigue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214"><link-text>Turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is early evening before Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott return, but at least their journey was not in vain. The ignition unit that Knott spotted at the gas station was still there and works perfectly when fitted to the truck. Within half an hour of their return, the engine is running smoothly once more and you are able to continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The truck slams through the wall of cars with a tremendous crash. The impact sends a violent shudder through the floor but the truck is slowed very little by the collision. Once clear of the barricade, Knott accelerates along the main street and you hear angry voices and the sharp crackle of automatic gunfire amidst the roar of the vehicle's engine. The air becomes livid with the sound of singing bullets, which pierce the canvas and shatter against the truck's cage-like frame. An occasional fragment singes your skin but otherwise you and the sergeant escape unharmed.</p>
- <p>Haskell is at the tailgate, returning fire at the clansmen who were guarding the barricade, forcing them to quit their shooting and dive for cover. You join him and focus your sights on the doorways of the passing stores, where sleepy-eyed clansmen are stumbling into the street to investigate the commotion (erase from your Ammo Pouch ammunition equivalent to one round of fire).</p>
- <p>You are starting to feel confident that you have beaten the clansmen when you feel the truck decelerating. A glance over your shoulder in the direction of the cab window reveals why Knott is slowing down. A bright yellow bulldozer, with its earth scoop lowered, is trundling along the main street towards you. The captain screams an order and Knott obeys. He spins the steering wheel and sends the truck screeching sharply to the left towards a narrow side street. His quick reactions and driving skill have saved you from the bulldozer, but immediately you are confronted by a new hazard.</p>
- <p>Several of the houses that back on to this street have collapsed, and the debris has formed a huge, uneven mound that blocks your path. Knott, confident that the truck is capable of scaling this obstacle, shifts the selector into all-wheel drive and stamps his foot on the gas pedal. Amid a whine of gears, the truck accelerates towards the mountain of bricks and shattered timbers. You hit the mound at speed and the truck lurches towards the peak, but, less than five feet from the top, the truck shudders to a halt.</p>
- <p>Knott and the captain both leap from the cab desperate to clear away the debris that has jammed the front wheels. As they begin their work, three clansmen come running around the corner, firing their weapons as they sprint towards the truck. Haskell answers them with a burst of fire that fells the leading two and sends the survivor scurrying for cover. This does little to deter the attack: more clansmen are appearing by the second, and, judging by their blood-curdling screams, they do not intend to take prisoners.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have a missile weapon and wish to fire at the advancing clansmen, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to help the captain and Marine Knott clear away the debris from the front wheels, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect346-1-foot" idref="sect346-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire impacts against the pillar and instinctively you pull away from the window in case the assassin attempts to return fire.<a id="sect346-1" idref="sect346-1-foot" class="footnote" /> A few seconds later, there is a crash of breaking glass and you catch sight of something vaguely resembling a can of food as it flies through the window and bounces on the carpeted floor. Immediately there is a flash and a stream of sickly, cream-coloured gas shoots from its base. As the gas rapidly fills the room, your throat tightens and your eyes stream. A wave of nausea hits you and you rush frantically from the room before it fills to the ceiling with noxious tear gas: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Coughing and retching, you stagger along the corridor until you come to a flight of stairs that descends to a fire exit at the rear of the building. Desperate for clean air, you kick its locking bar and stumble out into the courthouse yard. You have taken just two steps when the assassin comes rushing around the corner of the courthouse, his rifle in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you have sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden, short-lived pain in your head and a reddening of your vision is all that you sense as the assassin's full metal jacketed round pierces your forehead and passes clean through your skull. Mercifully, death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here in Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your forehead connects with the clansman's studded leather jacket and the impact sends you reeling to the ground<ch.emdash/>lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Before you have recovered your senses fully, the Mexican draws a knife and attacks you while you are lying on the ground.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Mexican draws a knife and attacks you while you are lying on the ground.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="618" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="618" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Yucatan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your condition, you are unable to use a close combat weapon until the third round of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap across the gap and reach the far ledge, but your toes slip on the dusty mortar and you fall crashing to your knees: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. The others rush forward to grab your arms, but they are forced to duck when the clansmen open fire. Ricochets dislodge sections of the ledge where you are crouching and suddenly it gives way. Your stomach heaves as you feel yourself falling. Frantically, you throw up your hands to grab the roof's edge. You make it, and hold firm, but you are left dangling in mid-air while a firefight rages across the rooftops.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If the number you have picked is 0, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If it is 1-4, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Kate enter the Tucson stronghold to receive a hero's welcome. The colony are overjoyed; they feared they would never see either of you alive again. They are saddened to hear your account of how Captain Frankland, Sergeant Haskell and Marine Knott met their deaths, yet they draw comfort from the knowledge that their memory will live on in the hearts of the colonists. If it were not for their ultimate sacrifice, the colony would never have reached Tucson intact.</p>
- <p>After celebrating your successful return, the colony leaders set about planning the last stage of the journey to California, confident that now Mad Dog Michigan is no longer around, his army will be disinclined to continue the pursuit of the convoy. But a nagging doubt remains in your mind. Did Mad Dog Michigan really meet his doom at the Pantona Bridge?</p>
- <p>For you, Cal Phoenix, the answer to that question, and the final part of your exodus to California, await you in book four of the Freeway Warrior series, entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.04cc;">CALIFORNIA COUNTDOWN</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Map of Western Texas</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>???</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acskills.gif" width="386" height="123" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="308" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="accombat.gif" width="386" height="358" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acammo.gif" width="386" height="363" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acweapns.gif" width="386" height="383" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-<!--
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
--->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> any extra points gained through use of a close combat weapon.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> score of your enemy from your total. The resulting number is the Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio along the top of the chart and cross-reference it with the random number you have picked. (E indicates enemy's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. CP indicates Cal Phoenix's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from stage 3 until one combatant has zero <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or below, this is when he is declared dead.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>If the text offers the chance of taking evasive action instead of entering into combat, you may evade in the first round of combat or in any subsequent round.</li>
- <li>If you decide to evade after a round of combat, ignore all points lost by the enemy in that round: only Cal Phoenix loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="dtd">Dateline to Disaster</a>) Replaced <quote>training and</quote> with <quote>training, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>re-establish</quote> with <quote>reestablish</quote>, <quote>syphoned</quote> with <quote>siphoned</quote>, <quote>'The Freeway Warrior'.</quote> with <quote>the 'Freeway Warrior'.</quote>, <quote>fuel, food or water</quote> with <quote>fuel, food, or water</quote>, and <quote>'the Mavericks'</quote> with <quote>the 'Mavericks'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>if you pick a O</quote> with <quote>if you pick a 0</quote>, <quote>On pages 6 and 7 you will find an Action Chart</quote> with <quote>An Action Chart has been supplied</quote>, <quote>the Random Number Table at the back of this book</quote> with <quote>the Random Number Table</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote>survival skills</quote> with <quote>Survival Skills</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>For ease of use during play it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>map of New Mexico/Arizona</quote> with <quote>Map of New Mexico/Arizona</quote>, <quote>potassium iodine</quote> with <quote>potassium iodide</quote>, and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote><ch.plus/> 1) He</quote> with <quote><ch.plus/>1). He</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>are reduced to zero, at which point the one whose score is zero is declared dead.</quote> with <quote>are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead.</quote> and <quote>with a reduced ENDURANCE point score</quote> with <quote>with his ENDURANCE points possibly reduced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">1</a>) Replaced <quote>north-west</quote> with <quote>northwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Replaced <quote>head over heals</quote> with <quote>head over heels</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>antispetics</quote> with <quote>antiseptics</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">36</a>) Replaced <quote>motorcyle</quote> with <quote>motorcycle</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>shot-shell</quote> with <quote>shell</quote> and <quote>(minimum equals one round; maximum equals five rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: five rounds)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>Within a minute he has made a hole large enough to of the truck, there is another sharp crack</quote> with <quote>On the other side of the truck, there is another sharp crack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>Tennon Saw</quote> with <quote>Tenon Saw</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>syphoning</quote> with <quote>siphoning</quote> and <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>If is is 11 or more</quote> with <quote>If it is 11 or more</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>reassurringly</quote> with <quote>reassuringly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>motorcyle</quote> with <quote>motorcycle</quote> and <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum equals one round; maximum equals three rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: three rounds)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Replaced <quote>turn 235</quote> with <quote>turn to 235</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum equals one round; maximum equals eight rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one round; maximum: eight rounds)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>gunsmoke</quote> with <quote>gun smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>straigthening</quote> with <quote>straightening</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>expodes</quote> with <quote>explodes</quote> and <quote>turn 304</quote> with <quote>turn to 304</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>Tool kit</quote> with <quote>Tool Kit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>) Replaced <quote>manically</quote> with <quote>maniacally</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>pineclad</quote> with <quote>pine-clad</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>) Replaced <quote>landcruiser</quote> with <quote>Landcruiser</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>you Action Chart</quote> with <quote>your Action Chart</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>motorcyle</quote> with <quote>motorcycle</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced <quote>binouclars</quote> with <quote>binoculars</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) Replaced <quote>machine gunfire</quote> with <quote>machine gun fire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>) Replaced <quote>torchbeam</quote> with <quote>torch's beam</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>encumberance</quote> with <quote>encumbrance</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>one a.m.</quote> with <quote>1 a.m.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">288</a>) Replaced <quote>Muncipal</quote> with <quote>Municipal</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>) Replaced <quote>turn to, 83</quote> with <quote>turn to 83</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>Cochise county</quote> with <quote>Cochise County</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>(minimum equals one round; maximum equals five rounds)</quote> with <quote>(minimum: one burst; maximum: five bursts)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Replaced <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>,<a idref="sect63">63</a>,<a idref="sect82">82</a>,<a idref="sect150">150</a>,<a idref="sect152">152</a>,<a idref="sect192">192</a>,<a idref="sect310">310</a>,<a idref="sect320">320</a> Replaced CCS Bonuses in <quote>[]</quote> with <quote>()</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>,<a idref="sect11">11</a>,<a idref="sect66">66</a>,<a idref="sect92">92</a>,<a idref="sect100">100</a>,<a idref="sect106">106</a>,<a idref="sect134">134</a>,<a idref="sect192">192</a>,<a idref="sect223">223</a>,<a idref="sect264">264</a>,<a idref="sect282">282</a>,<a idref="sect291">291</a>,<a idref="sect295">295</a>,<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>Backpack items</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>,<a idref="sect157">157</a>,<a idref="sect213">213</a>,<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>shockwave</quote> with <quote>shock wave</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>,<a idref="sect227">227</a>,<a idref="sect258">258</a>,<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>,<a idref="sect46">46</a>,<a idref="sect196">196</a>,<a idref="sect222">222</a>,<a idref="sect266">266</a>,<a idref="sect287">287</a>,<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>Combat Results Table</quote> with <quote>Close Combat Results Table</quote>, and <quote>zero ENDURANCE points</quote> with <quote>zero ENDURANCE points or below</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect35">Section 35</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect44">Section 44</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect54">Section 54</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect88">Section 88</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect105">Section 105</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect120">Section 120</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect143">Section 143</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect164">Section 164</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect171">Section 171</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect176">Section 176</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect218">Section 218</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect227">Section 227</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect252">Section 252</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect264">Section 264</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect275">Section 275</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect309">Section 309</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect324">Section 324</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect348">Section 348</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map of New Mexico/Arizona</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
-<!--
- <li><a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect339">339</a></li>
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- </data>
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- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
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- </data>
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-$Id$
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-Revision 1.8 2007/05/20 22:00:17 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.7 2007/05/01 19:07:51 Wibbleboy
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.6 2006/09/14 14:48:40 Wibbleboy
-o Made various errata/non errata changes.
-o Updated errata section to combine all changes for a given page in a single entry.
-
-Revision 1.5 2006/09/12 08:50:09 Wibbleboy
-o Added ammo usage footnotes
-o Made several changes in response to suggestions in Wiki.
-
-Revision 1.4 2006/09/06 09:01:34 Wibbleboy
-o Fixed a few formatting errors
-o Implemented series-wide consistency changes
-
-Revision 1.3 2006/06/19 08:23:23 Wibbleboy
-Made errata changes for consistency with other books in series.
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-Revision 1.2 2005/12/07 12:45:05 Wibbleboy
-Applied misc formatting changes to match manual of style.
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-Revision 1.1 2005/12/06 15:52:18 Wibbleboy
-Initial Freepository revision
-
--->
-<meta>
- <title>California Countdown</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.fw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.fw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>12</month><day>17</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, the Freeway Warrior, champion and protector of Dallas Colony One. The final stage of your life-or-death exodus to the California coast is fraught with extraordinary dangers<ch.emdash/>breakdowns, rockfalls and unexplained deaths. Can you unravel the mystery that surrounds your journey, or will you perish without trace in the wastelands of Arizona?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1989 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1989 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1989 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1989 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
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-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Tyler Stevenson</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="dtd" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
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- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Bryan White</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan<br />Iain Smith</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Jennifer Sigman, Iain Smith</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dtd">
- <meta>
- <title>Dateline to Disaster</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
- <p><strong>1990-1998</strong><br />Rise of global terrorism on an unprecedented scale. Political violence funded by organized crime syndicate called HAVOC<ch.emdash/>The Hijack, Assassination and Violent Opposition Consortium.</p>
- <p><strong>1998-2003</strong><br />The governments of many small and impoverished nations fall into the hands of HAVOC. International terrorists receive arms, training, and shelter in these Badlands.</p>
- <p><strong>2003-2008</strong><br />Raids on oil and gas installations, assassinations, and the kidnapping of prominent world statesmen become commonplace as HAVOC attempt to terrorize the civilized world into submission. Despite public outrage and growing international tension, the major powers steadfastly refuse to give in to HAVOC's demands.</p>
- <p><strong>2008</strong><br />President of the United States and General Secretary of Supreme Soviet both assassinated at emergency summit meeting. US, USSR and major European nations create the World Defence League and declare war on HAVOC. The Badlands are invaded, key HAVOC bases destroyed, and thousands of HAVOC agents are captured.</p>
- <p><strong>2009</strong><br />HAVOC leaders imprisoned for life in 'Deep Pens'<ch.emdash/>maximum security gaols located deep underground<ch.emdash/>to prevent their escape or release by HAVOC agents still at large.</p>
- <p><strong>2010</strong><br />New leadership emerges to unify the scattered remnants of HAVOC and plan revenge.</p>
- <p><strong>2011</strong><br />A WDL train transporting seventeen 100-kiloton nuclear warheads, destined to be neutralized and dismantled, is attacked by HAVOC agents. The train is destroyed and its deadly cargo stolen.</p>
- <p><strong>2012 New Year's Day</strong><br />HAVOC hijack a WDL news satellite and broadcast a chilling ultimatum. They have planted the seventeen stolen warheads in major cities throughout the US, USSR and Europe. They call for the immediate release of all HAVOC agents held in Deep Pens, plus the payment of $2 trillion in gold bullion, or they will trigger the warheads one by one until their demands are met in full. A twenty-four-hour deadline is set. WDL leaders declare emergency and request that the deadline be extended. HAVOC refuse.</p>
- <p><strong>2nd January</strong><br />First warhead detonated at Brie Nuclear Energy Plant, ten miles south of Paris, France. Blast and radioactive fallout claim millions of lives. HAVOC repeat their demand and extend deadline by twenty-four hours.</p>
- <p><strong>3rd January 'The Day'</strong><br />World Defence League agents discover location of HAVOC command headquarters on an island in the South Pacific Ocean. Immediately orders are given to infiltrate and destroy the HQ and its occupants. The assault is swift and decisive; the complex is quickly overrun and its inhabitants are killed. Yet, ironically, as the news of this victory is being relayed around the world, HAVOC enact their ultimate revenge. A transmitter hidden on the island, fitted with a time-delay mechanism, clicks on, sending its high-frequency radio signal to a communications satellite orbiting the earth. This signal is amplified and returned to earth where, simultaneously, it triggers the remaining nuclear warheads. The initial explosions set off a disastrous chain reaction that feeds on civil and military nuclear installations all across the northern hemisphere. Hundreds of millions of people are killed within days, and many more perish during the years that follow, falling victim to the lingering radioactivity and the severe climatic changes that affect the earth.</p>
- <p><strong>2012-2019</strong><br />Gale force winds sweep across the world, carrying enormous amounts of dust into the upper atmosphere and preventing much sunlight from reaching the earth's surface. Temperatures plummet, deterring survivors from remaining above ground. Communications are disrupted by gamma radiation, making all radio, cable and satellite contact impossible. Small colonies of survivors develop in total isolation from one another during these years of darkness.</p>
- <p><strong>2019-2020</strong><br />Gradually, the dust storms die down and the sun penetrates the atmosphere, thawing the earth's frozen surface. Radiation decays to tolerable levels, and survivors emerge to reclaim what little remains of the world they once knew.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dtd" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You are Cal Phoenix, a survivor, born in California on Thanksgiving Day in the year AD 2000. In 2012, whilst on winter vacation at your Uncle Jonas and Aunt Betty-Ann's ranch in Texas, you were invited to visit a shale-oil mine near Austin, the first of its kind in Texas. As Chief-of-Construction, your uncle was proud to take you on a guided tour of the whole underground complex, which, for security reasons, was totally self-supporting. It was during this tour on 3rd January 2012, that the holocaust began.</p>
- <p>You remember how the ground shuddered when the shock waves of the first distant explosions reached the mine and how you thought it was the start of an earthquake, such as you had experienced many times at home in California. But as the levels nearest the surface began to collapse and the central elevator shaft filled with rubble, you realized the awful truth. At first there was no way of telling the extent of the surface devastation. Below ground, the safety generators had automatically switched into operation when the main power supply failed, and the tremors had faded quickly, which encouraged your aunt and uncle to believe that the damage above was superficial. Uncle Jonas was confidant that the military would mount a rescue operation and that you would be brought out within a few days, a week at the most. Aunt Betty-Ann too was optimistic. After all, there were emergency supplies, enough to feed 200 men for a whole month. Little did she know that the three of you would end up consuming all those supplies, or that the mine would become your home, your shelter and your prison for the next eight years of your lives.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>It was early September in the year 2019 when eventually you broke through to the surface. The landscape surrounding the mine looked like the surface of another planet. Few structures had survived the blizzards and intense cold that had swept around the world in the years following 'The Day', and now, after the dust had settled and the sun returned, the once-fertile plains of Austin resembled little more than a desert of parched and broken rock, littered with the artefacts of an absent civilization. During the first few days, when you set out to explore this wilderness, it was easy to believe that you were the only survivors. But on the morning of the fifth day Uncle Jonas made chance radio contact with a family called Ewell, who were living near the ruins of McKinney, thirty miles north of Dallas. They told him that they had been in touch with a handful of other groups, who had managed somehow to survive the holocaust. Most were isolated, unable to move due to lack of fuel, food, or water. They had urged those who could travel to join them in McKinney, to start a new community there, and some were already on their way. When your uncle and aunt accepted their invitation, the Ewells were enthusiastic but they also warned you to be wary<ch.emdash/>not everyone who had survived wanted to establish a new community. The ruins of some large Texan cities, such as Dallas and Fort Worth, were controlled by gangs of criminals who fought with each other and terrorized anyone seeking to reestablish law and order. They urged you to avoid these gangs at all costs.</p>
- <p>It took more than a week to discover a vehicle capable of transporting you to McKinney. It was an old school bus parked in an underground lot where it had survived the years of sub-zero blizzards. With fuel and spares salvaged from the mine, you managed to coax it back to life, whereupon you set off on your journey north. When you arrived at the town, it was easy to find where the Ewells lived, for their ranch was the only place that was still standing. It looked more like an old frontier post than a ranch, with its fortified perimeter wall, lookout posts and stake-filled moat. However, after being ambushed and shot at by the city gangs of Fort Worth during the final stages of your journey, you could readily understand the need for these defences.</p>
- <p>'Pop' Ewell, the seventy-year-old grandfather of the Ewell family, was the leader of this small colony of survivors, and it was he who had urged Uncle Jonas to join them when your uncle had first made radio contact. The colony numbered less than a dozen at the time of your arrival, yet as the airwaves became clearer and new contacts were made, the number had soon more than doubled to twenty-five. It was decided that a name was needed to identify the settlement. The name 'Dallas Colony One' was adopted<ch.emdash/>'DC1' for short<ch.emdash/>and from that day on, everyone worked hard to make DC1 a secure haven for those seeking refuge from the hostile wastelands and marauding city gangs.</p>
- <p>'Cutter' Jacks was one such refugee. Before 'The Day' he had been chief mechanic at the International Grand Prix Circuit near Lake Dallas, and his incredible skill and knowledge of engines was soon to prove invaluable to the colony. He taught you how to drive, and from a pile of old wrecks that you helped him salvage from the circuit, he built you a powerful, customized car. You used it to patrol the highways north of the city, keeping a lookout for gangs of city punks who frequently mounted raids to steal or destroy DC1's supplies. Cutter also taught you to shoot, and it was your natural prowess with a gun, and your skill behind the wheel, that was to earn you the begrudging respect of your enemies, who took to calling you the 'Freeway Warrior'.</p>
- <p>Six months after your arrival at DC1, the colony was faced with a major crisis. A heat wave caused a drought that threatened to destroy the food supply. Crops were failing and the colony's artesian well<ch.emdash/>its only source of uncontaminated water<ch.emdash/>was beginning to dry up. The drought was also provoking more attacks from the city punks who were desperate for food and water. Their common need had united them and now they posed a very real threat to the security of DC1. It was the last day of May, 2020, when Pop Ewell made radio contact with another colony, who were based in the city of Big Spring, 300 miles west of McKinney. Their situation was completely the reverse of DC1's: they had food and water in plentiful supply but they were desperately short of fuel. They told of their contact with survivors in Tucson, Arizona, who also were without fuel. The Tucson colony reported that the territories west of the Sierra Nevada Mountains had been spared the worst effects of the radioactive blizzards that had devastated the rest of the country and, miraculously, much of southern California was still widely populated: it had survived the last eight years virtually intact. When you heard the news, you could hardly believe your ears. Perhaps your family as still alive; perhaps there was still a chance that one day you would be reunited.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
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- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
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- <p>A meeting was held to decide how best to deal with the crisis facing DC1. Everyone agreed that staying at McKinney could lead only to eventual death, either slowly from starvation or suddenly at the hands of the murderous city gangs. The only choice open to DC1 was to try to reach California: only there lay any real hope for the future of the colony. The decision was relayed to the survivors at Big Spring, and a deal was struck to rendezvous with them as soon as possible. DC1 would give them fuel in exchange for food and water, and together they would join up with the Tucson colony for the final stage of the journey to California.</p>
- <p>Careful preparations were made for the long trek, and three vehicles were chosen to make up the convoy: the school bus, your customized roadster and a gasolene tanker laden with 5,000 gallons of petroleum siphoned from underground storage tanks at the Ewell ranch. Supplies of food and water were adequate but the colony lacked sufficient firearms and ammunition with which to defend itself. On the day before the convoy was due to leave, one of the colonists was sent north to search the town of Sherman for weapons. He radioed back to say that he had found a cache of hunting rifles and ammunition, but that his truck had broken down and he was stranded in the town. He had also found a survivor<ch.emdash/>a beautiful teenage girl<ch.emdash/>and he requested that you go to Sherman to pick them both up. As soon as you arrived you were ambushed by the scouts of a brutal gang of bikers known as the Detroit Lions and, in the ensuing gun battle, you killed Stinger<ch.emdash/>the scouts' leader.</p>
- <p>Later you learned that the girl, Kate Norton, was the sole survivor of a Kansas City colony that had been attacked and wiped out by the Detroit Lions. The Lions' leader, who calls himself Mad Dog Michigan, had taken a liking to her and spared her life. Mad Dog was once a high-ranking HAVOC agent who had escaped from Pontiac Deep Pen near Detroit, and he and his gang, most of whom were also HAVOC escapees, were heading for the Fort Hood Military Reserve near Killeen, Texas, the largest armoury in the whole of the United States. There he hoped to find enough weapons to equip the other HAVOC clans, who were now in control of cities all along the eastern seaboard. Kate had managed to steal a motorcycle and escape from their camp, but Mad Dog was determined to get her back. He sent his brother<ch.emdash/>Stinger<ch.emdash/>and a handful of his best scouts to track her down, and they had finally caught up with her at Sherman.</p>
- <p>When Mad Dog learned that you had killed his brother, he vowed to get even with you. He abandoned his plans to loot Fort Hood and embarked instead on a relentless pursuit of your colony as it crossed the sun-scorched wastelands of Texas. The journey to Big Spring was fraught with great danger and yet, in spite of the many perils you faced, or perhaps because of them, you felt yourself falling in love with Kate and you sensed that she was becoming increasingly fond of you. Sadly, the convoy was only a few miles from Big Spring when disaster struck. The land surrounding the settlement was controlled by a gang of bikers, a renegade clan called the 'Mavericks', who had been the bane of the Big Spring colony for many months. As the convoy drew nearer to its destination, the Mavericks launched an attack, and, in the running battle that ensued, they captured and abducted Kate. The convoy entered the fortified gates of Big Spring to a rapturous welcome from the colonists of that settlement, but for you the celebration was soured by the vivid memory of Kate's abduction. You vowed to rescue her, and from that moment on every waking minute of every day at Big Spring was spent thinking about little else.</p>
-
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- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
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- </illustration>
-
- <p>By chance it transpired that the leader of the Mavericks, a blond-haired murderer called Amex Gold, was a former HAVOC agent, who had served under Mad Dog Michigan before 'The Day'. He offered to join forces with the Lions and, as a gesture of his loyalty to his former commander, he returned Kate to him. Together the Lions and the Mavericks launched a hasty attack on Big Spring, yet, although they outnumbered the colony by more than three to one, they were unable to breach the settlement's fortified perimeter wall and were repelled with heavy losses. On the day after the attack, Pop Ewell discovered the radio frequency that the clansmen were using and was able to eavesdrop on their communications. He learned that Mad Dog had ordered another HAVOC clan, the Saints, who were based in New Orleans, to come to reinforce his command; they were expected to arrive within the week. He also overheard Mad Dog arrange a meeting with Mekong Mike, the leader of the Angelinos, a gang who controlled the city of San Angelo. He wanted him as an ally and was prepared to offer guns and ammunition in return for his help in destroying the Big Spring colony. Two days later, Mad Dog Michigan set off for San Angelo at the head of a motorcycle pack 200 riders strong. Those few clansmen who remained with Amex Gold tried all manner of tricks to convince the colony that the Mavericks and the Lions still surrounded Big Spring in strength, but to no avail. The senior members of the newly enlarged colony convened a meeting, at which it was decided that, with the clansmen now at their weakest, and with the appearance of the New Orleans gang expected at any time, a breakout had to be attempted without delay. There was only one way for the colony to reach Tucson overland and that was to follow the remains of Interstate Freeway 10 through the arid, mountainous territory of western Texas. Precisely halfway between Big Spring and Tucson lies the city of El Paso. To reach this city in one piece became the convoy's goal. It lay at the end of a long and tortuous stretch of mountain highway, undoubtedly one of the toughest you would have to face on your journey to California.</p>
- <p>Under cover of darkness, the convoy escaped from Big Spring and sped westwards. Now your vow to rescue Kate could at last be realized and, at the first opportunity, you told the colony of your plans. Reluctantly they let you leave the convoy and go to San Angelo, where you intended to infiltrate the meeting between the Lions and the Angelinos in the hope of finding Kate there. Your skill and daring were rewarded, for you were able to locate and rescue Kate from under the very noses of the clan leaders. During your escape from their city, you killed Mekong Mike, the Angelinos' leader, and stole a map from Mad Dog Michigan. Later you discovered that this map contained vital details of a HAVOC operation to take over the whole of the United States.</p>
- <p>As you escaped westwards from San Angelo, you encountered three soldiers, survivors from a world Defence League outpost in southern Texas, who were also heading for El Paso, where the remnants of their command group were stationed. You joined them and together you rendezvoused with the convoy at the entrance to the only passable road through the Apache Mountains. A fierce battle was raging along this pass between the Mavericks and a clan of Mexicans who had crossed the border in search of food and supplies. The convoy was forced to run the gauntlet of their gunfire before finally reaching its goal. Upon entering the city, you received a warm welcome from the WDL command group who were defending the military reserve of Fort Bliss. They celebrated your arrival for several days until the appearance of Mad Dog Michigan and an army of clansmen numbering over 1000 strong brought an abrupt end to the festivities. He had persuaded the Mexicans to join with the Lions, the Mavericks and the Saints, all of whom were now united to his cause. The situation was desperate. Faced with overwhelming odds, the WDL command tried to negotiate with Mad Dog but he rejected their overtures with disdain. He sent a reply to the command leader, Captain Frankland, in which he reaffirmed his vow to avenge his brother's death. His aims were brutally simple: he promised that neither you nor any of the colony would ever leave EL Paso alive. He set up headquarters in Ciudad Juarez, on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande, where he directed his clan army to encircle and lay siege to the colony.</p>
- <p>For two weeks, he launched repeated attacks, calculated to weaken your defences. The colony withstood the assaults, but the constant attrition began to erode your hopes of ever being able to break out of El Paso and reach Tucson in one piece. Then a radio message was intercepted that was to turn this desperate situation into a crisis. A clan convoy of trucks was bound for Mad Dog's headquarters in Ciudad Juarez. On board were enough high explosives to blow Fort Bliss, and everyone in it, to sightless atoms. Something had to be done to prevent Mad Dog from using these explosives. Out of desperation was born a daring plan. The explosives had to be destroyed as soon as they reached Ciudad Juarez. It was a dangerous and potentially suicidal mission, too difficult for one man alone, therefore Captain Frankland chose to lead the mission himself and he called for three volunteers to accompany him. Two WDL soldiers, Haskell and Knott, readily accepted the challenge and, mindful that the future of the colony was dependent on the success of this mission, you summoned up enough courage to volunteer as the fourth member of his team.</p>
-
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- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
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- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Armed with contact mines, the four of you infiltrated Mad Dog's base and blew up the explosives shortly after they arrived there. The unexpected destruction of the base threw his clan army into confusion and enabled the colony to break out of Fort Bliss virtually unopposed. As the colony made their escape westwards towards Tucson, your team escaped from Ciudad Juarez in a hijacked truck and made its way along the Mexican border. The plan was for you to rendezvous with the colony the following day, but mechanical breakdowns and skirmishes with Mad Dog's scouts prevented an early reunion. Enraged by the sheer nerve of your attack and the damage inflicted upon his command, Mad Dog Michigan sent for Helmut Varken, the most ruthless of all his HAVOC assassins. Relentlessly Varken shadowed your team as you traversed the mountainous forests of southern Arizona and, one-by-one, he coldly murdered your comrades until only you remained.</p>
- <p>In a fateful showdown in the town of Tombstone, you faced Varken and avenged your dead companions in the yard of the town's historic courthouse. Using the deceased assassin's motorcycle, you reached Interstate 10 and followed tyre tracks that were made a day before by the convoy vehicles. They led you to the town of Benson, forty miles southeast of Tucson, where unexpectedly you met up with Kate Norton. When your team had failed to make the rendezvous, the colony had come to the reluctant conclusion that you had all perished at Ciudad Juarez. Only Kate clung to the belief that you were still alive and had persuaded the colony leaders, against their better judgment, to allow her to wait for you here.</p>
- <p>Driving your roadster, the two of you set off confidently on the final leg of your journey to Tucson. However, your confidence was soon shattered by the sudden appearance of another roadster, an armed and armoured racing machine driven by none other than your archenemy, Mad Dog Michigan. A vicious road duel ensued as you raced towards the sanctuary of the Tucson stronghold, a battle that culminated in a high-speed collision that sent your enemy careering off the freeway at over 100 miles per hour. The last you saw of the HAVOC leader was when his roadster plummeted into a deep drainage-way called the Pantona Wash.</p>
- <p>You and Kate entered the Tucson stronghold to a hero's welcome. The colony was overjoyed, for they feared that they would never see either of you again. They were saddened to hear of the deaths of your comrades, yet all drew some comfort from the knowledge that the memory of their sacrifice would never fade. Had it not been for their bravery, the convoy would never have reached Tucson intact.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="sskills" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before embarking on your adventure, you must first determine your personal characteristics and the weapons and provisions with which you are equipped. An <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> has been supplied on which to record and amend these details as the adventure unfolds.</p>
- <p>Your personal characteristics comprise two basic attributes: <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To discover your initial <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero. Add 10 to the number you have picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your Action Chart (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 5 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total of 15). When you fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat, your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be measured against that of your enemy, so a high score in this section is desirable.</p>
- <p>To discover your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level, repeat the process, but this time add 20 to the number you have picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (for example, if your pencil falls on the number 8 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you have a total <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score of 28). If you are wounded in combat, or injured at any other time during your adventure you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If, at any time, your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total falls to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. You can regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during the course of the adventure, but your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level can never rise above your initial score.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="sskills">
- <meta>
- <title>Survival Skills</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ever since the day you returned to the surface, you have endeavoured to develop your skills and natural instincts fully in order to best defend yourself and your colony.</p>
- <p>Listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> are your five basic Survival Skills:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="driving">
- <meta><title>Driving</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ability to control powered vehicles, such as cars, motorcycles and trucks.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="shooting">
- <meta><title>Shooting</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your familiarity and experience in the use of missile weapons, such as pistols, machine pistols, shotguns and rifles.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="fldcraft">
- <meta><title>Field craft</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your knowledge and experience of all aspects of outdoor survival.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="stealth">
- <meta><title>Stealth</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your physical fitness, the speed of your reflexes and your dexterity.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="perceptn">
- <meta><title>Perception</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your intelligence, your ability to evaluate information, your education and your mental alertness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Your ability in each of these five individual skills is measured in skill points. You begin with 3 points per skill. Before starting the adventure, you may allocate an additional 4 skill points to your list of five Survival Skills. These 4 extra points can be used to improve one or more of your five skills. During your adventure, all five skills will be severely tested, therefore the higher the individual skill level, the better your chances of survival. You may allocate your 4 additional points entirely how you like.</p>
- <p>When you have decided where to allocate your 4 additional skill points, make a note of the totals in the Survival Skills section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(If this is your first Freeway Warrior adventure, your total number of skill points should be 19: five skills x 3 points each = 15, plus 4 additional skill points = 19 points.)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="sskills" />
- <link class="next" idref="weapons" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apart from your clothing, a number of useful items form your basic equipment. These comprise a Backpack, and a belt on which hangs your Ammo Pouch, Medi-kit, Water Canteen and Hunting Knife. In addition to these items, you possess a <a idref="map">Map of Southern Arizona/California</a>, which you carry tucked inside your leather jacket.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="backpack">
- <meta><title>Backpack</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Up to ten separate items may be stored and carried in your Backpack at any time. However, if more than three items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 1 point. If more than six items are carried, your Stealth level will be reduced by 2 points; and if you carry a full Backpack (containing ten items) your Stealth level will be reduced by 3 points.</p>
- <p>In order to equip yourself for the task ahead, you may choose up to four items from the following list:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">SOLAR TORCH</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE (High Explosive) GRENADE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">BINOCULARS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">COMPASS</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">CB RADIO</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">ROPE</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">THREE MEALS</typ> (each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">FLEXIBLE SAW</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">SIGNAL FLARE</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the items you have chosen on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have picked four items, adjust your current Stealth level accordingly.</p>
- <p>Opportunities may arise during your adventure for you to pick up useful items. These items will appear in the text in bold print and, unless you are instructed otherwise, they can be stored and carried in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>You will need to eat regularly. If you do not possess any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="ammpouch">
- <meta><title>Ammo Pouch</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Your Ammo Pouch is where you store any spare ammunition for firearms. It can hold a maximum of the following:</p>
- <p>
- 40 rounds of 9mm calibre Pistol/Machine Pistol ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 20 rounds of 7.62mm calibre Rifle ammunition<br />
- or<br />
- 10 rounds of 12-gauge calibre Shotgun ammunition
- </p>
- <p>When carrying mixed calibres of ammunition, use this equation to check how much space you have left in your Ammo Pouch:</p>
- <p>4 x 9mm rounds = 2 x 7.62 rounds = 1 x 12-gauge round</p>
- <p>Additional ammunition can be carried in your Backpack. Ammunition occupies one space for each quantity that is equal to (or less than) the maximum that can be carried in one Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="medikit">
- <meta><title>Medi-kit</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>A well-stocked Medi-kit can make all the difference to your chances of survival should you suffer injury in the field or as a result of combat. It contains useful first aid supplies, such as dressings, antiseptics, antibiotics, water purification tablets, sulfonamides, pain killers, potassium iodide tablets (to delay absorption of radioactivity) and sutures.</p>
- <p>For convenience, these medical supplies are grouped into units. To find how many units you have in your Medi-kit, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals 10) and add 2. Your total score equals the number of units with which you begin your adventure. To keep a record of them, circle the appropriate number of unit symbols in the Medi-kit section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The maximum number of units you can carry in your Medi-kit is twelve.</p>
- <p>You may use your Medi-kit units to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; each unit used in this way restores 3 points. Units cannot be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in lieu of a Meal or Water when instructed to eat or drink.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="canteen">
- <meta><title>Water Canteen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Water is essential to life, and your life will depend on having a sufficient, uncontaminated supply. You will need to drink regularly during your adventure. One drink is equivalent to half a pint and your canteen holds exactly two pints of water: enough for one day's needs. When instructed to drink, be sure to tick off one box in the Water section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you do not have any Water when instructed to drink, you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="weapons">
- <meta>
- <title>Weapons</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="close">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>These weapons aid you in hand-to-hand fighting. You begin your adventure armed with a Hunting Knife which, when used in close combat, adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Note this Hunting Knife in the Close Combat Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you find a close combat weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it. Close combat weapons appear in the text with a close combat skill number; for example, Machete (3). This number indicates how many points this weapon will add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in a hand-to-hand fight.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of close combat weapons you may carry is <em>two</em>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="missile">
- <meta><title>Missile Weapons</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>There are four types of missile weapon:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>PISTOL</li>
- <li>MACHINE PISTOL</li>
- <li>SHOTGUN</li>
- <li>RIFLE</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Unless you are carrying over weapons from a previous Freeway Warrior book, you begin your adventure armed with only one of these weapons. Make your choice and then record the weapon you have chosen, together with its calibre and rate of fire details, in the Missile Weapons section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>In order to be able to use a missile weapon, you must have sufficient ammunition of the correct calibre. The following list shows the calibre of each weapon, the amount that is used every time the weapon is fired, and the number of rounds that you possess at the start of your adventure:</p>
-
- <table>
- <tr>
- <th></th>
- <th>Calibre</th>
- <th>Rate of Fire</th>
- <th>Initial No. of Rounds</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>PISTOL</td>
- <td>9mm</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>8</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>MACHINE PISTOL</td>
- <td>9mm</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>30</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>SHOTGUN</td>
- <td>12-gauge</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>RIFLE</td>
- <td>7.62mm</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
-
- <p>The initial number of rounds should be noted in the Ammo Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Missile weapons cannot be used if you run out of ammunition or possess rounds of the wrong calibre. However, the opportunity may arise for you to replenish your supply of ammunition and/or discover a weapon of the correct calibre.</p>
- <p>You may carry a maximum of three missile weapons. However, for every missile weapon that you carry (excluding your initial choice), you must reduce your Stealth level by 1 point.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Close Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="weapons" />
- <link class="next" idref="numbered" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions when you will have to fight an enemy in hand-to-hand combat. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level will both be given in the text. Your aim in close combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero or below while losing as few of your own <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible.</p>
- <p>At the start of a close combat, enter both your own and your enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Close Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for close combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through the use of close combat weapons to your current <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example<br />Cal Phoenix (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 17) is attacked by a Renegade Clansman (<typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> 18). He is not given the opportunity to evade close combat, but must stand and fight his adversary. Cal Phoenix is armed with a Hunting Knife, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total CLOSE COMBAT SKILL of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Renegade Clansman's <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.plus/>1 (19 <ch.minus/> 18 = <ch.plus/>1). He notes this <ch.plus/>1 on his <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>After working out your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Close Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the number that you have picked (the random numbers appear down the side of the chart). You now have the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Cal Phoenix and his enemy in this round of close combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; CP represents points lost by Cal Phoenix.)</p>
- <p>Example<br />The Combat Ratio between Cal Phoenix and the Renegade Clansman has been established as <ch.plus/>1. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 4, then the result of the first round of close combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Cal Phoenix loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>Renegade Clansman loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, start the next round of close combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from stage 3.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This procedure continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Cal Phoenix are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead. If Cal Phoenix is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Cal Phoenix proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points possibly reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">Summary of the Close Combat Rules</a> appears on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade close combat. If you have already engaged in a round of close combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored; only Cal Phoenix may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but that is the risk of running away! You may evade combat only if the text of that particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The day after your arrival sees the withdrawal of Mad Dog Michigan's clan army from the vicinity of the Davis-Monthan air force base, stronghold of the Tucson colony. Scouts are sent to shadow the enemy and, later in the day, they return to report that the clansmen have pulled back to Nogales, a frontier town on the Mexican border. This hurried retreat reinforces the belief that Mad Dog perished when his speedster crashed into the Pantona Wash.</p>
- <p>Boosted by the arrival of your convoy, the Tucson colony now numbers over 130 men, women and children. Supplies of food and water are adequate and, with the arrival of DC1's gasolene tanker, there is more than enough fuel to get you to California. Mike Gorgas, a former district attorney who is now the appointed leader of the Tucson colony, urges the other colony leaders to make preparations to leave the stronghold and head west without delay. The clan army may have suffered a setback but, sooner or later, prompted by a lack of supplies or a desire for revenge, they are sure to leave Nogales and attack the stronghold in force.</p>
- <p>There is also the threat of an attack by the Outlaws, an exceptionally vicious clan that controls the city of Phoenix. Among their number are many criminals who have been expelled from California since 'The Day'. Their leader, Shiloh, is one such outcast. He has been exiled into the Omega Zone (the name Californians have given to the ravaged territories east of their state line), for murder, looting and other, lesser, crimes he and his gang perpetrated in Los Angeles. During the past few months he has often crossed swords with the Tucson colony, resulting in deaths on both sides.</p>
- <p>When the time comes to plan the route to California, the colony agrees that they should try at all costs to avoid contact with Shiloh's clan. Interstate 10 is the only highway out of Tucson capable of carrying the convoy at reasonable speed, yet it passes straight through the centre of Phoenix. The only alternative is to follow this highway as far as Arizona City and then switch to Interstate 8. The colony could then follow the freeway across southern Arizona to Yuma, traverse the Colorado river at this point, and continue, through the desert and mountains of southwest California, until finally reaching its goal<ch.emdash/>the city of San Diego.</p>
- <p>Much of the territory south of Phoenix is patrolled and controlled by the Outlaws. To avoid the risk of running headlong into a clan patrol, the colony appoints you, and three others, as scouts. Whilst the colonists complete their final preparations to leave the stronghold, you and the other scouts set off along Interstate 10 to check that the road ahead is clear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahead you see a tall observation tower that rises high above the surrounding hills. It once provided sightseers with a magnificent view of the Anza-Borrego Desert Park; now it offers the perfect location for a radio transmission, clear of the surrounding peaks.</p>
- <p>You leave the freeway and lead the convoy along an access road that is marked with signs pointing to the Desert View Tower. The electric elevator that once serviced the observation platform is beyond repair, so the powerful DC1 radio transmitter has to be carried all the way to the top up a flight of stairs. Once in position, Pop at last makes contact with Pine Valley.</p>
- <p>At first they believe that the call is an elaborate clan trick, but confidential WDL call codes are given by a handful of Tucson colonists who were league operatives before 'The Day'. When these call codes are checked and discovered to be genuine, the Pine Valley outpost receives special authorization from army control in LA to allow the convoy into Fortress California. But this permission is coupled with certain conditions. A zero hour is given. The colony must reach Pine Valley at 11.00am, exactly one hour from now, if it is to be allowed to pass through the checkpoint. The army also insists that radio silence be maintained until your arrival, for the frequency you have been using is known to the Chargers and is often monitored. Pop agrees to the terms on behalf of the colony and signs off.</p>
- <p>Excited and eager to leave, the colonists return to their vehicles for the final journey to Pine Valley. You are one of the last to leave the tower and, when you are half-way down the ladder, you suddenly hear Rickenbacker shout a warning from the platform above: 'My God! There's a clan convoy on the freeway!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Hey, buddy, put the gun down. We're not clansmen,' you shout.</p>
- <p>'Sure you're not,' he replies, his voice full of sarcasm, 'But I'm a careful kinda guy who's grown fond o' the idea o' keepin' his head on his shoulders. So why don't you and your friend step out o' the car real easy and show y'selves?'</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you wish to do as he says, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you choose to ignore his request, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect4-1-foot" idref="sect4-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your burst of fire hits the clansman in the chest, killing him instantly.<a id="sect4-1" idref="sect4-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The sight of his body tumbling backwards down the slope sends a shock wave through his confederates, and at once their attack falters. Encouraged by their sudden change of heart, you watch as they fall back towards their trucks, which are parked in the centre of the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Snatching the front of your T-shirt to your mouth, you manage to control the dizziness long enough to stagger away from the edge of the platform and escape from the cloud of tear gas. As your vision clears you see that you are not the only one who has been affected by the gas. On the other side of the roof, the clansmen are doubled up on the ground, coughing and retching violently. You draw a close combat weapon and move stealthily towards the group, hoping to reach the clansmen before the effects of the gas wear off. The clansman who was seated sees you approaching but, curiously, does nothing to alert his companions.</p>
- <p>You act quickly in case he has a change of heart. Rushing forward, you get your forearm around the throat of the nearest clansman and pull him up from the ground. He drops his rifle over the edge of the parapet and, as you pull him towards you, his partner picks up his gun and fires in panic. The burst of fire kills the clansman instantly, but you survive, shielded by his body. Shocked by what he has done, the clansman freezes, his watery eyes wide with disbelief as his companion slumps dead at your feet. Before he recovers his senses, you jump forward and kick the assault rifle out of his hands, sending it sailing over the parapet to join the other gun. Before it hits the ground you press home your advantage and attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Shocked by what he has done, the clansman freezes, his watery eyes wide with disbelief as his companion slumps dead at your feet.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="623" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="623" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Cape Cod</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, and the effects of the tear gas, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you swerve out of the line to avoid the falling disc. With a loud crunch, the metal plate cuts into your windshield, but because of your swift action, it strikes the glass at an angle and is deflected away. Both you and Rickenbacker are showered with glass, yet you escape with only minor injuries: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Coolly you muster your strength and direct several well-aimed blows at the padlock. Its corroded metal link soon shatters and the fire exit door bursts open, allowing you to flee the flames. Amid billowing clouds of grey smoke you leap on to a fire escape landing and descend a rusty iron staircase to a parking lot below. As clean air fills your lungs, your strength returns, enabling you to get clear of the area in time to avoid being caught by a massive explosion, which destroys the warehouse completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon strikes Mad Dog's shoulder blade, opening a deep wound. Screaming with pain, he stumbles backwards and, in doing so, raises his right arm towards the ceiling. The blade of his chainsaw rips into the wooden panelling as if it were paper-thin, but, when it cuts through a metal light-fitting, the deadly blade becomes jammed. Frantically, Mad Dog pulls at the handle in an effort to free the chainsaw before you can get back on your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to look for your gun, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to look for another close combat weapon, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to attack the clan leader with your bare hands before he can free his chainsaw, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the threat of pursuit by the Outlaws, the convoy covers just fourteen miles before it grinds to a halt at the outskirts of a town called Aztec. Two of the seventeen colony vehicles have broken down due to shrapnel damage sustained during the clan attack, and a further three are on the verge of doing likewise. With night closing in, and the road ahead yet to be scouted, the colony can do little more than draw itself up in a tight, protective circle and wait for dawn to arrive. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>At first light, you, Rickenbacker, Macy and Langdon are sent to scout the freeway and search for food and water. Meanwhile, Cutter oversees the repair of the vehicles. He is aided by Avenal and Rex Tyler, who have both been completely exonerated of Mike Gorgas' murder. Cutter estimates that the repairs will take four hours, giving you enough time to check and search Aztec, Dateland and Mohawk, the next three towns along Interstate 8.</p>
- <p>Aztec has been so badly ravaged by the post-holocaust storms that you decide not to bother searching its ruins, and instead you press on to Dateland. This town has fared little better, although you do chance across a shopping precinct on the east side of the town that looks promising. You decide between you that one team should stay here and search these stores while the other one continues along the freeway and scouts Mohawk, fourteen miles to the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish stay here at Dateland and search for supplies for the colony, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you choose to continue along the freeway to Mohawk and search there, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If Cutter is disappointed to hear that the freeway ahead is blocked by a landslide, he certainly does not allow it to show. 'Hell, we're jus' gonna have t' break out the brooms 'n' shovels,' he says, with typical Texan bravado, and goes off to break the news to the others.</p>
- <p>The colonists listen to Cutter, and you watch their faces grow sterner and longer. You are worried that the bad news, coming so quickly after the shock of Mike Gorgas' death, will cause the colony to disintegrate, but, to your surprise, it has completely the opposite effect. It re-focuses attention on the immediate problems and inspires them to pull together.</p>
- <p>Within minutes the colonists are back aboard their vehicles and the convoy is ready to move out. You and Rickenbacker resume your position at the head of the line, and you lead them out of Smurr. When you reach the pass, you bring the convoy to a halt and go forward with several of the colony's elders to assess the damage. </p>
- <p>The westbound lanes are blocked by a solid wall of rock that is more than twenty feet high in places, but the eastbound highway has escaped the worst of the landslide and Cutter estimates that it could be made passable with a couple of hours' hard work. He tells the others and immediately they set to clearing a way through.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to help the colonists clear a way through the landslide, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you choose to help Macy and Langdon keep a lookout for clan scouts, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the front door and pull it shut behind you to prevent the hornets from following you out into the street. The stings you have sustained to your face, neck and hands throb painfully. If you possess at least three Medi-kit units, you are able to soothe the inflammation with some ointment: restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. (If you wish to do this, remember to erase one Medi-kit unit from your list.)</p>
- <p>When you have fully recovered from your encounter with the hornets, you check your equipment and return to Rickenbacker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You force yourself to ignore the deadly hail of lead churning the ground around your feet, and concentrate all your efforts on reaching the safety of the alleyway. Seconds pass like hours until finally you enter the narrow, tunnel-like passage.</p>
- <p>At the far end you discover a battered pick-up truck, daubed with clan emblems and slogans, parked beside a fire-escape ladder that is lowered all the way to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to stop and search the vehicle, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to climb the fire-escape ladder to the roof, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is an hour before sunset when you arrive at the town of Gila Bend, although the light is so poor because of the raging dust storm that it seems as though night has already fallen.</p>
- <p>It comes as a welcome surprise to find that the convoy has made it here before you. Mike Gorgas congratulates you and Rickenbacker on the success of your diversion, which drew away the entire clan encampment and allowed the convoy to pass through the intersection unhindered. As you pass down the line of colony vehicles acknowledging the welcoming faces, you are struck by the absence of one face that you particularly wanted to see.</p>
- <p>'Where's Kate?' you ask Cutter, who is busy covering the engine of the school bus to keep out the dust. 'She's inside,' he says, but you sense by the tone of his voice that something is wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sight of the traitor scurrying away like a frightened cockroach stirs feelings of anger and resentment in the pit of your stomach. You keep your eyes fixed on his every move as you get ready to let loose your first burst of fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If the gun you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using Rickenbacker's transceiver, Cutter attempts to call up Pop Ewell and anxiously you await the response.</p>
- <p>At first, nothing but the crackle of static pours from the transceiver's tiny speaker, but then it clears and you hear Pop's voice coming through loud and clear: We've made it <ch.ellips/> we've arrived!'</p>
- <p>The message puts a smile back on all your faces. Cutter is about to reply when there is a terrific flash and a loud explosion. All of you are hurled backwards to the floor as the door of the lodge is blown open by the blast of a grenade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283"><link-text>Turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Avidly you keep your eyes on the clansman, praying that he will fail to see your roadster parked among the wrecks. He stops and takes shelter in the lee of a panel truck. After foraging around in his pockets for a cigarette lighter, he attempts to light the handmade cigarette which hangs as if glued to his bottom lip. Once it is alight, he continues his walk, this time in a direction that takes him away from your roadster.</p>
- <p>The dust storm is still raging fiercely as you climb into your roadster and head back on to Highway 84. Your return to the intersection with Interstate 8 passes without incident and soon you are driving west once more towards Gila Bend. It is a difficult and frustrating drive, for you cannot shake the fear that Kate will have lapsed into a coma before you return with the Atropine, and you dare not increase your speed for fear of crashing off the freeway. The strain takes its toll lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>During your return drive you must take a Drink or lose a further 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">To continue, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you approach the hut. You have taken only a few steps when a burst of automatic gunfire rings out from the other side of the site.</p>
- <p>'Rickenbacker's found him!' you whisper to yourself, and turn to run back towards the central parking lot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Go to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The darkness makes it difficult to take accurate aim, but as soon as the shadowy clan group appears at the other end of your barrel, you squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If your total score is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Following your hastily scribbled directions, you drive around the empty streets of Ajo for nearly an hour before you find the town's Memorial Hospital. Once inside, you search the reception area and uncover a plan that reveals the location of the medicine storage facility. It lies at the end of a maze of corridors which are signposted but unlit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you possess a <typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ>, a <typ class="item">Box of Matches</typ>, or a <typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ>, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you do not possess any of these items, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By the time you reach the roadster, Rickenbacker is already there. He has found a few cans of food and some dried milk, which you place in your cardboard case before stowing it away in the trunk of your car. You are telling him about your lucky escape when Macy and Langdon return. As they pull to a halt nearby, you see that they are not alone. They have with them a bearded man.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319"><link-text>Turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A splash of sparks lights up the lodge as your weapon is chewed up by the chainsaw's spinning toothed blade. Mad Dog's laugh becomes a malevolent snigger as he launches a wild, sweeping slice at your head. You avoid instant decapitation by rolling across the debris-strewn floor, but as you rise to your feet, a wave of dizziness robs you momentarily of your sight and you stumble backwards against the wall. Your vision clears, and as Mad Dog approaches, you duck below his wild sweeps and thrust your weapon at his chest. You draw first blood. The clan leader squeals like a stuck pig and pulls away, but quickly he recovers and attacks like a man possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Dog Michigan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A close examination of the keyhole reveals that the doors are held by a five-lever Matthews deadlock: picking this lock will not be easy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Field Craft skill score.</p>
- <p>If you possess a Dagger (2), a <typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ>, or <typ class="item">Screwdriver</typ>, add 3 points to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The news comes as a devastating shock to the colonists. The Detroit Lions are little more than two miles away and closing fast. If they catch up with you they could easily wipe you out and leave no trace. Then, if they could reach Pine Valley at zero hour, they would breach the checkpoint defences and open the door for a clan invasion of southern California.</p>
- <p>'The situation is desperate,' says Cutter to the hastily gathered group of colony elders. 'And it calls for desperate action!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect262"><link-text>Turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you inform your fellow judges of your decision and, after a brief consultation, Cutter Jacks announces the verdict.</p>
- <p>'By the majority decision of this tribunal, we find John Barlow guilty of the murder of Michael Gorgas in the first degree. This crime is a capital offence punishable by death by firing squad. The sentence is to be carried out immediately.'</p>
- <p>Upon hearing the verdict, the surrounding colonists utter a sound that is full of shocked disbelief. Barlow's face contorts into a mask of hatred and he reaches, like a striking cobra, for the pistol he has tucked into his belt. However, the Tucson escorts are already moving forward to grab his arms, and swiftly they wrestle the gun from his hand. A lone voice in the crowd demands a re-trial, but it is ignored. Then another voice rings out, but this time it captures everyone's attention. It is Macy, the convoy's lookout, and he is screaming words that make your blood run cold.</p>
- <p>'The Outlaws are attacking!'</p>
- <p>Without warning, two grenades explode simultaneously in the town square and the chatter of machine gun fire echoes along the empty side-streets. Screams of panic mingle with the dull booms of more explosions as the colonists rush to the vehicles to try to retrieve their weapons before it is too late. A burst of gunfire from a rooftop stitches a line of holes across the table and sends you, and the other judges, diving for cover. Suddenly everything is chaos; it's every man for himself. You grab your gun and scurry towards a garbage cart that lies overturned on the plaza. As you skid to a halt behind the cart, you find yourself face to face with Barlow, the man you have just sentenced to death. The confrontation is shocking, but it is the sight of the screwdriver that he is holding poised in his hand that really strikes terror in your heart.</p>
- <p>With a cry of pure hatred he lunges with the screwdriver and tries to drive it into your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>With a cry of pure hatred he lunges with the screwdriver and tries to drive it into your chest.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="541" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="541" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Barlow</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of his attack, you are unable to make use of a close combat weapon until the start of the second round of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect25-1-foot" idref="sect25-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your gun and squeeze the trigger just as the clansman looses off a second burst of fire.<a id="sect25-1" idref="sect25-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Bullets thud into the side of the car, dangerously close, but you fight the urge to dive for cover. The firing stops, and your adversary clutches at his chest and crumples in a heap in the doorway. Rickenbacker, having finally lost his patience, slams his gun angrily against the front of the car. To his surprise, the sudden impact is just what is needed to dislodge the faulty shell.</p>
- <p>Then you hear running footsteps somewhere above and behind you. You turn in time to see two clansmen rushing to take up firing positions on the roof of a nearby bank. You shout a warning and immediately Rickenbacker spins around to face the threat. With no time to take proper aim, the two of you trust to your luck as you spray the parapet of the roof with gunfire (remember to erase an additional round of fire from your Ammo Pouch). Your swift action is rewarded: the clansmen are caught in your crossfire before they have you fixed in their sights. With gurgling screams they tumble from the roof of the bank and crash on to the street below.</p>
- <p>'You OK?' asks Rickenbacker.</p>
- <p>'Sure, jus' fine,' you reply, confidently. 'I guess we'd better check out the bodies, 'n' make sure they're Outlaws.'</p>
- <p>He nods in agreement and follows as you walk across the street towards the fallen clansmen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive behind the truck to avoid getting cut down by the hail of bullets that are spewing from the barrel of the clansman's machine pistol. Unfortunately, several of the slugs penetrate the side of the pick-up truck and tear into a metal container full of industrial blasting powder that is standing in the back. A spark, caused by one of the slugs, ignites the powder with devastating effect. There is a brilliant flash and you are consumed by a searing blast of heat as the truck and its contents are blown to pieces.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at the Gila River.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap up and launch a two-footed kick to Mad Dog's chest that sends him sprawling. He drops the chainsaw and, as it crashes to the floor, the motor stalls and the buzzing stops. The clan leader reaches for a diver's knife, which is sheathed in a scabbard strapped to his thigh. The mirror-bright blade flashes in the gloom as he draws it and lunges at your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Dog Michigan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect28-1-foot" idref="sect28-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the keypad puzzle in <a idref="sect337">Section 337</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you input the correct number, there is a faint click and the whirr of a hydraulic lock as it disengages. The vault door opens easily and inside you find what you have come here for: Atropine.</p>
- <p>You take the tub of Atropine tablets and check that its seal is intact; then you slip the tub into your pocket as you hurry out of the store and retrace your steps all the way back to the hospital exit. (You need not make a record of the Atropine on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>As you leave the hospital and make your way back to your car, an armed clansman with a solar torch comes walking across the lot. You freeze in your tracks, then hide behind one of the wrecked autos. Judging from the direction in which he is walking, there is a strong possibility that he will catch sight of your roadster before you reach it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to sneak up and ambush the clansman before he reaches the roadster, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you choose to stay where you are and observe his movements, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you drive back to the convoy, where a meeting is called to discuss the situation. It is decided that the convoy vehicles will be drawn up into break-out formation, ready to follow the highway south to Brawley. Once you reach this town you will keep going at speed until you return to Interstate 8 near El Centro. Cookie reminds everyone that the Chargers clan are in control of that city, but his warning is all but ignored. Most of the colony still distrust him, and those who do believe what he says feel that there is really no alternative route.</p>
- <p>'If we move fast,' says Cutter, 'and keep on moving, we'll be through El Centro and long gone before these Chargers know what's happened.'</p>
- <p>Within half an hour the convoy is drawn up into its break-out formation, with the Tyler tow truck taking the lead. You squeeze your pick-up into the line, between the DC1 school bus and the Landcruiser, and wait impatiently for Pete Tyler to give the signal to roll.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you listen to Cookie's plan. He suggests that you approach the bridge on foot, using the sagebrush as cover. Once you are in position, as near to the bridge as you can get, Cookie and Rickenbacker will approach in the truck, with Cookie driving. They will stop before they reach the bridge, whereupon Cookie will jump out and attract the clansmen's attention by shouting. Once they have taken a good look at him, he will run into the scrub. Hopefully, this will be enough to provoke the Pumas into giving chase, leaving the bridge unguarded. The moment they leave the bridge, Rickenbacker will open fire on them from the truck. Your task is to prevent any of the clansmen from reaching their pick-up and using the radio.</p>
- <p>You are not sure that the plan will succeed, but you can think of no alternative. 'It's risky,' says Rickenbacker, 'but I reckon it can work, so let's give it our best shot.'</p>
- <p>A swirling nest of butterflies that have suddenly taken refuge in your stomach prevent you from answering. The best you can manage is a weak smile as you set off towards the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The windows of this store are so caked with dirt that it is impossible to see inside. You imagine an Aladdin's cave full of food just waiting to be scooped off the shelves, but your hopes are dashed when you force open one of the Supermart's electric doors and gain entry.</p>
- <p>The first thing you notice is the sunlight streaming in where part of the rear wall has collapsed. Over the past year this gap has allowed foraging clansmen and packs of hungry mountain wolves to take nearly everything worth taking from the store. Only when you search the store rooms on the basement level do you find a case of canned foodstuffs that are still edible. You are pulling it down off the shelf when suddenly you discover why the clansmen and the wolves left this case untouched.</p>
- <p>Behind the case is a nesting rattlesnake. Until now it has been sleeping, but the sudden, unexpected movement of the case has awoken it and, in fear and surprise, it lashes out and attempts to sink its venomous fangs into your throat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>In fear and surprise, the rattlesnake lashes out and attempts to sink its venomous fangs into your throat.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="616" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="616" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add together your Stealth and Field Craft skill scores and add this total to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If your total score is now 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first you see of Ajo is a battered city-limits sign looming out of the dusty darkness. Night has now fallen, although visibility was already so poor that you hardly notice the transition from day to night. Buildings appear as grey silhouettes, featureless and indistinguishable from one another. Suddenly the fear strikes you that you may never find the Ajo hospital, and therefore the vital Atropine, in time to save Kate's life.</p>
- <p>You have no idea where the hospital is located, so you decide to try to find a town map. You bring your car around and point it at the nearest building so that the headlights illuminate a sign that is fixed to the wall. It reads:</p>
- <signpost>AJO RANGER STATION</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to enter this building, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you decide to continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect33-1-foot" idref="sect33-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire first, easily beating your adversary to the draw, but to your horror your gunfire goes awry, missing its target by several feet.<a id="sect33-1" idref="sect33-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Undaunted by how near he has come to death, your enemy fixes you grimly in his sights and squeezes the trigger of his machine pistol.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to dive to the ground to avoid being hit, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you wish to fire a second time, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your gun and track the clansman as he runs across the bridge, but you do not get a clear view of him until he emerges from behind the bridge's supporting girders and sprints towards the pick-up truck. He is more than thirty yards away when you let loose your first round of fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You accelerate the roadster at the grinning Avenal, forcing him to jump aside to avoid being hit. You hear his coarse laughter as you pass and it grates on your nerves, but you do not allow it to weaken your resolve. You are determined to save Kate's life, and with this aim uppermost in your mind, you speed towards the centre of Gila Bend.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mad Dog is over 200 yards away, but using your rifle it would be possible to hit him from where you are.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to try to shoot Mad Dog Michigan, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you do not wish to try to shoot your old enemy, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect37-1-foot" idref="sect37-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Barlow throws his hands in the air as the force of your gunfire pitches him forwards.<a id="sect37-1" idref="sect37-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He crashes to the ground and immediately tries to rise, but it is a futile effort: he has sustained a fatal wound and death is but seconds away. The clan biker moves as if he is going to dismount and help his confederate. Then, realizing that he is beyond help, he quickly changes his mind and makes a hasty escape from the plaza.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker and Cutter come running across the plaza and take cover with you behind the garbage cart. You tell them how you dispatched Barlow, and how you are now absolutely convinced that he was guilty.</p>
- <p>'You're right,' says Cutter, glancing across at his motionless body. 'He must have been a clan infiltrator. I'd hazard a guess that this whole attack was an effort by the Outlaws t' get him out o' here.'</p>
- <p>'Well now they're too late,' you reply. 'His sentence has already been served in full.'</p>
- <p>From behind the metal lip of the garbage cart you survey the battle that is raging around the plaza. Most of the colonists have now armed themselves and taken cover, and they are putting up a valiant defence of the vehicles. The few clansmen you do see are either dead or attempting to escape from the town. All, that is, apart from one. He is a blond-haired thug, dressed in a studded leather vest and striped pants, who is busy hammering in the glass door panels of the DC1 school bus with the stock of his machine pistol. The sight of him senselessly attacking the door of the empty bus does not bother you unduly until you remember that there is one person who is still on board the bus<ch.emdash/>Kate<ch.emdash/>and your heart nearly stops with shock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to open fire at the clansman before he gains entry to the bus, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you do not wish to open fire at the clansman, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive away from the oncoming clan car, but your reactions are too slow to save you. It impacts into the side of your roadster and you are caught and crushed beneath the trunk of your own vehicle as it is rammed aside.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your journey and your life end here in Red Rock.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the town, using several of the viewing spectrums that your sophisticated lenses possess. The infra-red and enhanced background light options show no signs of movement or unusual heat sources, such as auto exhausts, engine blocks or chimneys which would indicate that the town is occupied.</p>
- <p>Encouraged by the scan, you decide to investigate. Rickenbacker radios the convoy to inform them of your decision, and they request that you call in every five minutes. If you fail to call, they will assume you are in trouble and send a group to come to your rescue.</p>
- <p>'Ten-four,' replies your partner. 'Over and out.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect278"><link-text>Turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cookie informs you that the convoy could make a successful crossing at the Imperial Reservoir, located on the Colorado River ten miles to the northeast of Dome. Your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms its location, but no highways are shown and you doubt that the convoy's heavy vehicles would be able to cross there safely, if at all.</p>
- <p>Cookie is insistent that it is possible, and, after much deliberation, the colony leaders agree to try. The convoy sets off immediately for Ligurta, a town on Interstate 8 that you checked thoroughly on your return from Yuma earlier this morning. The town is still empty, so the convoy halts here. Driving the clan pick-up truck that you discovered parked behind the cinema last night, Rickenbacker, Cookie and yourself leave Ligurta to scout the tiny town of Dome. It is empty, but two miles beyond it you find that the bridge across the Gila River is guarded by a Puma patrol.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109"><link-text>Turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the X-ray department, the corridor leads to another flight of stairs, which ascends to a pair of heavy doors, inset with circular windows. You look through the windows and see a small reception lobby, with couches, desks and a counter. A detailed floor plan of the hospital is hanging behind the reception counter and it occurs to you that this must show where the medicine storage facility is located. You push against the doors but, to your frustration, both of them are locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you wish to try to barge open the doors to gain access to the lobby, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to try to pick the lock that secures the doors, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you choose to shoot open the lock, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess a <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it to blow open the doors, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A swarthy Lion's scout, dressed in a leather riding suit that is adorned with a necklace of bears' teeth strung around his throat, comes rushing up the slope towards you, his machine pistol spitting fire. Coolly you raise your pistol and take aim at his heart as his bullets whistle and whine about your ears.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tug the transceiver from your backpack, only to discover that its power-pac has been smashed by a ricochet. (Delete the <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ> from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) The unit, having stopped a rifle bullet, has probably saved your life, but without a serviceable radio you are now unable to warn the convoy about the ambush.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker glances at the broken transceiver and shakes his head. 'They'll be here in less than five minutes,' he says, cocking his machine pistol. 'Let's see what we can do to make their welcome a little more friendly, shall we?'</p>
- <p>With that he rises from his knees and empties an entire magazine at the clansmen's position. While he is firing, you chance a glance over the wing of the Roadster and see an alley lying directly opposite. It runs beside the cinema on which the clansmen are positioned. A black, perspex awning covers most of its length, hiding it from view of the surrounding rooftops.</p>
- <p>When you look back, Rickenbacker is busy reloading. You tap his arm and point to the alley, saying, 'I'm goin' t' try an' get around the back. Cover me.'</p>
- <p>He grunts approvingly. The moment he reopens fire, you break cover and sprint towards the alley as fast as your legs and your lungs will allow. You are ten yards from its welcoming darkness when bullets start to thud into the ground around your feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total score is 6-9, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have no choice but to try to find your way to the medical storage facility in total darkness. With one hand on the corridor wall, you progress slowly, feeling your way along the route you memorized from the hospital plan.</p>
- <p>At length you reach a door that you feel certain is the entrance to the storage facility, and a twist of the handle reveals that it is unlocked.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add to this number your Perception skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If the total score is 29 or less, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If the total score is 30 or more, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You resume your position at the head of the convoy, scouting two miles ahead of the column as it trundles west along Interstate 8. The sun is low on the horizon and the temperature is cooling to a comfortable 70 degrees as you approach the small town to Tacna. You slow down and check for evidence of clan activity but, like all the towns you have passed through since Gila Bend, this one is derelict and deserted.</p>
- <p>You continue and, a short while later, you see the outline of Wellton in the distance, its buildings dark against the orange glow of the setting sun. The town looks empty and you approach without slowing. Fatigue, coupled with the ease with which you have passed through the previous towns, has filled you with a false sense of security. Unfortunately, your carelessness is punished when, within seconds of entering the town's main street, your roadster comes under fire from someone positioned on the roof of a large building to your right.</p>
- <p>Bullets ricochet off the hood and strike sparks in a line along the armoured plating that protects your door. Then there is a sharp bang and the steering suddenly feels heavy, warning you at once that one of your front tyres has been shot out.</p>
- <p>Add together your Driving skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If your total is 24 or less, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If it is 25-30, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If it is 31 or more, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect46-1-foot" idref="sect46-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire hits the clansman in the chest, sending him flying backwards to crash heavily against one of the barbecue ranges.<a id="sect46-1" idref="sect46-1-foot" class="footnote" /> As he slides to the ground, his limbs move jerkily, then his whole body relaxes, resigned to its fate.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker appears at the edge of the barbecue area, drawn by the sound of gunfire. His face is lined with worry until he sees that you are still standing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the workshop, the service bay and stores areas have been stripped bare of all tools and other useful items. You can tell that the looting was the handiwork of the Outlaws, for they have left their clan mark, a crude skull-and-crossbones motif, sprayed six-feet high across one of the workshop's walls.</p>
- <p>You search through the debris, but it is not until you prise open the trunk of a derelict auto that you discover some items that may be of practical value:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tow Chain</typ> (10ft length)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Bolt Cutters</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">To leave the workshop and return to your roadster to await the arrival of the convoy, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The convoy manoeuvres into line and gets ready to cross the dam. Rex and Pete Tyler's tow truck leads the column, followed by the Landcruiser and the DC1 gasolene tanker, the heaviest of all the colony's vehicles. You help Rickenbacker, Macy and Langdon to steward the crossing, making sure that the vehicles stay in line and do not get too close to each other. With the passing of the larger vehicles, you notice that the road surface rapidly deteriorates, Cracks appear in the concrete, some more than a foot wide, exposing the rusty steel rods embedded within, which were placed there to strengthen the structure. Near the centre of the dam, the concrete is powdery,, and when the time comes for you to cross, large chunks of the road are simply no longer there.</p>
- <p>With difficulty, Macy and Langdon make the crossing in their Trans-sol, leaving you with the unenviable task of bringing the roadster, the last colony vehicle, across a rapidly disintegrating surface. Rickenbacker advises you to leave the vehicle and cross with him on foot, but you are loath to abandon your car.</p>
- <p>'It's OK,' you say, waving away his protests. 'I'm sure I can make it.'</p>
- <p>'You'd better hurry then, Cal,' he replies, 'before the whole centre slips away.</p>
- <p>With your stomach churning, you climb into the driving seat and reach for the ignition.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your lenses on the top of the outcrop, and at first you see nothing untoward. Then, about a minute later, a puff of smoke issues from the rock, as if a bullet has smacked into its surface. Patiently you watch the outcrop, half-expecting something else to happen. You do not have to wait very long: within a few minutes there is a rumbling noise, like the sound of distant thunder, and several giant cracks appear in the outcrop. Suddenly a whole section gives way and hundreds of tons of rock come tumbling down the mountainside.</p>
- <p>You watch open-mouthed as the landslide spills out across the freeway, blocking the lanes in both directions. Rickenbacker tugs at your sleeve and suggests that you turn around and drive back to the colony as fast as you can. Numbly you nod your head and reach out to restart the engine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The discordant blare of an air horn tells every driver to start his engine. Then the convoy moves off like a giant, disjointed metal snake, gradually gathering speed as it approaches the highway junction. Ahead you see the line of vehicles veer to the south and, as you approach the Crazies' tented encampment, you hear the shrill cackle of their laughter.</p>
- <p>Some of the more daring clansmen are hurling stones and old auto parts at the speeding convoy. Most fall short or do minimal damage, but one missile<ch.emdash/>a frisbee-like auto disc<ch.emdash/>travels further than the rest. It arcs in the air above the DC1 school bus and comes falling straight towards your windshield.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If your total score is 6-8, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push the dead clansman away from you and turn to see Rickenbacker grappling with his partner. He looks like he has the upper hand until a blow to the side of his head sends him reeling to the ground. The Outlaw cackles and reaches for a knife sheathed at his belt, but Rickenbacker is too quick for him. He draws the blade he carries concealed in his boot, and hurls it at the grinning clansman, catching him in the throat. With a thin, bubbling scream, the Outlaw grasps the hilt and tries to wrench it free. But his strength, like his life's blood, is deserting him. With a shudder, his limbs stiffen, then he goes limp and drops in a heap to the ground.</p>
- <p>That was a close call,' says Rickenbacker, as he bends over the Outlaw and retrieves his blade. 'Damn close call.'</p>
- <p>You search the clansmen's bodies before hiding them, together with their bikes, beneath the Santa Rosa bridge. Your search uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li>Water Canteen</li>
- <li>Enough water for two Drinks</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li>Two Machine Pistols</li>
- <li>Twenty-eight rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>One Pistol</li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these items, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>After checking that the two Outlaws were alone, you leave the bridge and go north in search of a suitable place to cross the Santa Rosa Wash.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339"><link-text>Turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless from the exertion of combat, you step over the clansman's body and move to the rear of the bus to check that Kate and your aunt are all right. Both look badly shaken but appear to be otherwise unharmed.</p>
- <p>You have only just helped them to their feet when Rickenbacker appears at the doorway. 'C'mon Cal, we've gotta get back to the roadster. Macy reports more Outlaws at the edge of town. We've got to lead the convoy outta here.'</p>
- <p>Kate and Aunt Betty-Ann insist that they are all right, and urge you to do as your partner says. The colonists are beginning to return to their vehicles and, as you follow Rickenbacker across the plaza towards your roadster, it worries you to note that several of them are nursing wounds.</p>
- <p>When you are back behind the wheel once more, you signal to Cutter and the others follow your lead. Then you power your car out of Sentinel and head east along Interstate 8.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9"><link-text>Turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fears that your encounter with the Outlaws will alert others from the clan to your presence haunt you as you leave Stanfield and follow the highway east. Fifteen minutes later you come to a bridge that crosses the Santa Cruz River, and you see a signpost that marks the city limits of Casa Grande. You try to identify the passing buildings but the storm and the darkness consume all detail. Suddenly a new fear strikes you that you may never find the Casa Grande hospital, and therefore the vital Atropine, in time to save Kate's life.</p>
- <p>You have no idea where the hospital is located, so you decide to try to find a town map. Three blocks from the bridge you spot the oval-shaped sign of an Exxon gas station standing less than twenty yards ahead on your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you wish to pull into the gas station, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you decide to ignore it and continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>More than twenty colonists step forward with you and volunteer themselves in the defence of the convoy, even though you all know that the action could cost you your lives. Among the volunteers, you see many familiar faces: Rickenbacker, Macy, Langdon, Avenal and the Tyler brothers. Also, to your surprise, you see Kate. She has not completely recovered from her illness, but she is determined not to let that stop her. She comes and stands by your side, and you feel her warm hand squeezing yours reassuringly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The route Jaeger took yesterday, when he hiked from the well in the mountains to Interstate 8, followed the course of the San Christobal Wash. For him it was a difficult trail to follow on foot, and you soon discover that it is an even harder one to negotiate in a pick-up truck. The broken ground is deeply rutted and littered with boulders, and it takes more than an hour to make the fifteen-mile climb to the well.</p>
- <p>The well itself is located at the bottom of a bowl-shaped gully, shaded from the sun by two peaks of the Mohawk mountains. A pump house stands beside the bore-hole, to which is affixed a sign that reads:</p>
- <signpost>LUKE AIR FORGE RANGE</signpost>
- <signpost>GARCIA WELL</signpost>
- <signpost>US. GOVT. PROPERTY<ch.emdash/>KEEP OUT!</signpost>
- <p>You park the pick-up beside the pump house and Jaeger helps you unload the containers. 'I had to draw the water up by hand yesterday,' he says, nodding towards the bore-hole, "cause I couldn't get the pump to work. I reckon it's OK<ch.emdash/>jus' needs some gasolene that's all. Maybe if we could siphon some fuel from the truck we could get its engine running. It'd save us a whole lotta hard work.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you possess some Plastic Tube, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull off the freeway and follow the service road towards a diner, the largest building in the rest-stop complex, and park your roadster as near to the entrance as possible. The diner has been vandalized by clansmen, and broken furniture and shattered glass litter its tiled floor. The strong smell of liquor wafts from the kitchen area and Rickenbacker says it warrants a closer look. He leads the way, his footfalls crunching loudly on the glass-strewn floor as he heads optimistically towards the kitchen's double doors.</p>
- <p>'I feel kinda thirsty all of a sudden,' he says, as he pushes open the doors and strides into the darkened kitchen area. You are about to reply when a bottle comes flying through the air and smashes against the wall, missing your head by inches.</p>
- <p>'What the <ch.ellips/> !' shouts your partner. He reaches for his machine pistol, but before he can unsling it from his shoulder, a dark shape leaps out from the shadows and pulls him roughly to the floor. Instinctively, you rush forward to help him, only to find yourself confronted by a drunken clansman wielding a broken bottle. He lets out a scream and a fetid gust of liquor-soaked breath assails your nostrils. You recoil in disgust and avoid being hit as viciously he stabs the bottle at your face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Daytona</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A firefight erupts on the far side of the bridge between Rickenbacker and the five remaining clansmen. Swiftly he puts paid to four of them, but the fifth escapes and comes running back across the bridge in your direction. He is a hard-faced thug dressed in a patched, silver, air-con riding suit, and he is armed with a machine pistol. His muscular legs propel him effortlessly up the gradient that leads to the truck, and, the moment he sees you, he levels his gun and begins firing at you from the hip.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The moment he sees you, he levels his gun and begins firing at you from the hip.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="629" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="629" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you wish to take cover behind the truck, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you choose to dive for cover amongst the scrub, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brake heavily to avoid the rocks that are spilling across the highway ahead, and manage to stop before you crash into them. However, braking so severely stalls the engine and leaves you stranded on the freeway amidst a rain of boulders. One rock hits the top of your door and explodes, driving several jagged stone splinters deep into your arm and neck: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the pain of your wounds, you manage to restart the engine and turn the roadster around before you are hit again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From such close range the pistol shots are deafening. You shake as each one explodes in your ears, and you scarcely dare to hope that you will survive being hit at point-blank range. So resigned are you to your doom that it takes you several seconds to realize that you have not been shot at all.</p>
- <p>Tentatively you open your eyes to see Tyler kneeling in front of you, still holding the pistol, a coil of smoke rising lazily from its barrel. You pat your chest just to confirm that you have not been drilled full of holes, then you glance over your shoulder to see where the bullets have gone. A T-shirted clansman lies face-up on the plaza, unmoving, his chest and stomach stained bright red. A dagger is clenched in one of his pudgy hands, and an iron bar is gripped tightly in the other.</p>
- <p>'Despite what you think o' me Cal,' shouts Tyler, 'I'm no traitor. If it's a traitor you're after, then look over there.' And with that he points towards a street that borders on the plaza. There you see John Barlow running half-crouched towards a clan scout, who is sitting astride a motorcycle. The clansman is shouting encouragement, and as Barlow scurries nearer, he shuffles himself forward to make room for the traitor on the back of his riding seat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you possess a missile weapon and wish to fire at Barlow, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you do not have a missile weapon, or choose not to fire at Barlow, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door you discover an old locker room that served as a changing area and equipment store for the fire department officers and paramedics who were once stationed here. A quick search uncovers a Fire Extinguisher, a Fire Axe (3), and enough medical supplies for three Medi-kit units.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">To leave the fire station and continue, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you drive nearer, Rickenbacker takes up his machine pistol in expectation of trouble. The clansman appears to be alone, and you notice that there is only one motorcycle parked beside the cabin from which he emerged. This cabin stands at the entrance to what was once a state-run campsite.</p>
- <p>After only a few seconds, the clansman's smile wears thin, to be replaced by a look of horror the moment he realizes that you are not what you seem. With a cry of anguish he turns and runs through the campsite entrance.</p>
- <p>'He's seen us,' hisses Rickenbacker. 'Quick Cal, let's get him before he gets away!' Hurriedly you put your foot down and drive through the entrance way. Beyond lies a cluster of log cabins, grouped in a horseshoe formation around a central parking area. As you squeal to a halt, the clansman is nowhere to be seen.</p>
- <p>'We've gotta find him <ch.ellips/> and quick!' says Rickenbacker, leaping from the passenger door. 'You search one side of the camp and I'll search the other.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to search the cabins on the south side of the campsite, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to search the cabins on the north side of the campsite, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Jaeger is talking to Rickenbacker when he mentions that, only the previous day, he found a fresh-water well in the mountains, approximately fifteen miles southeast of the town of Mohawk. He offers to lead the convoy scouts to it, and assures everyone that the source is pure and uncontaminated. 'An' the best part is that the clansmen don't know about it, either,' he says, enthusiastically.</p>
- <p>The promise of fresh, clean water lifts the convoy's flagging spirits and renews their hopes of completing the long exodus to California. You set off at once and soon cover the twenty miles of open road that lead to the derelict town of Mohawk. Once there, you and Jaeger are chosen to go and find the well. A dozen empty, five-gallon water containers are loaded on to the back of a pick-up, enough for sixty gallons of water, the minimum the colony will need in order to reach California alive.</p>
- <p>The thought of driving a pick-up truck into the mountains without roads or four-wheel drive fills you with dread. But you know that it is the only way you have of transporting such a weighty load. Once preparations are complete, you climb aboard and head out into the desert towards the Mohawk Mountains.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If the number you have picked is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If the number is 3-9, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the pass and find yourselves approaching a section where rocky outcrops overhang the westbound lanes of the freeway. Then a rumbling, like the sound of distant thunder, draws your eyes away from the road ahead, and you look up in horror to see hundreds of tons of rock tumbling down the mountainside. One of the outcrops has collapsed and you are now driving into the path of a massive landslide.</p>
- <p>Huge boulders come smashing down on to the highway, as desperately you fight to turn your roadster around and escape before you are crushed to death.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If your total is 8-10, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If your total is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rickenbacker volunteers to approach the truck and sabotage the radio, while you move nearer to the bridge and prepare to give him covering fire. You take up a position in a dry ditch running parallel to the dirt road, where you can observe the clansmen without being seen.</p>
- <p>After a few tense minutes, Rickenbacker gives a thumbs-up signal to show that he has accomplished his task, but before he can move away from the truck, one of the six clansmen leaves the group and comes walking back across the bridge towards the vehicle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to open fire at the approaching clansman, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you decide to crouch down in the ditch, to avoid being seen when he passes, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The throaty roar of the engine and the crackle of the clansman's gunfire fills your ears as they speed nearer and nearer. Clearly they intend to ram you out of their path. For a moment, as the car mounts the ramp, the dust clears and you glimpse the tyre: it is the moment you have been waiting for.</p>
- <p>'Make it count!' you cry, as you open fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop behind the edge of the hollow moments before the clansman's bullets tear into the earth. Then you hear the chatter of Kate's gun, and suddenly there is silence. Cautiously you raise your head and see the clansman's body tumbling backwards down the slope. The sight of his death sends a shock wave through his confederates, and at once their attack falters. Encouraged by their sudden change of heart, you watch as they fall back towards their trucks, which are parked in the centre of the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking up the viewer, you set the controls to scan in the infra-red spectrum and then raise it to your eyes. At once the effects of the storm disappear and you see a detailed heat picture of the surrounding urban landscape. The light is radiating from a shop doorway, which shows up as a vivid red glow. You also notice two other sources of heat. They are clansmen and they are crossing the street less than thirty yards ahead. They move slowly, their heads bowed against the storm, and you can make out the distinct shape of rifles, which show up as cooler zones superimposed upon their backs.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait for the clansmen to enter the glowing doorway, then you restart your roadster and continue along the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53"><link-text>Turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your 12-gauge Brushmaster up to your shoulder and peer along the barrel. The blond-haired clansman is already half-way up the short flight of steps that ascend into the bus. Immediately you pull the trigger, hoping to stop him before he disappears from sight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kick the shop door and it creaks open unwillingly. Inside you find that the store is virtually empty, having already been looted by clansmen eager to get their hands on its stock of off-road motorbikes.</p>
- <p>A brief search of a workshop at the back of the premises yields just two items which may be of use:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Tool kit</li>
- <li>Engine Oil</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep either or both of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300">To leave the shop and rejoin Rickenbacker, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The darkness makes it difficult to pinpoint the shadowy clan group with any accuracy, so you trust to your skill with a machine pistol and fire a burst from the hip.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A group of six Detroit Lions is trying to circle around behind your position by way of a gravel road that runs alongside the railroad line. You call out to Macy and two Tucson colonists, Cleaver and Zay, who are occupying a shallow trench nearby, and point out the danger. You ask them to help you to stop the Lions. and they agree to follow you.</p>
- <p>'Stay here, Kate,' you say urgently, in reply to her worried protests. I'll be back, I promise.' </p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Consciously you fight the rising panic that threatens to overwhelm you, and redirect your blows at the window frame. Your efforts are soon rewarded: the frame splinters and collapses, allowing you to kick out the glass panel and escape into the parking lot beyond. As clean air fills your lungs, your strength returns. Without looking back, you sprint away from the are a before one last massive explosion destroys the warehouse completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grenade explodes with a dull boom, and you are struck by chunks of earth and stone. A sharp pain lances through your forearm, and when you clasp your hand around it, warm blood oozes between your fingers. A shrapnel splinter has embedded itself in your flesh: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you shake the dirt out of your hair and look up, you see that Rickenbacker is back on his feet and running straight towards the cabin. With an unnerving disregard for his own safety, he leaps through the doorway and disappears from view. A few seconds later you hear a burst of gunfire, then another silence. You are beginning to fear the worst, when suddenly he reappears, gun in hand, and signals an all clear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the milling throng of colonists who are gathered around the scene of the crime, and push your way through them towards Rex Tyler. His hands are being tied and, before you can reach him and question him about what has happened, he is taken away and locked in the cab of one of the Tucson vehicles.</p>
- <p>Some of the Tucson colonists are preparing to bury Gorgas' body, which they have wrapped in blankets. You get the distinct feeling that they would not look favourably on a request to examine the body, so you decide to investigate the cab of his truck instead.</p>
- <p>Apart from some bloodstains on the driver's seat, you see nothing unusual until you search beneath the seat itself. There you discover a <typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ>, and immediately your suspicions are aroused. Mike Gorgas did not smoke, and neither, come to think of it, does Rex Tyler.</p>
- <p>'What are you lookin' for, Phoenix. Souvenirs?' growls an angry voice. Immediately you turn around and find yourself staring at Avenal's sneering face. Before you can reply, Cutter appears.</p>
- <p>'You're the driver of this truck now, Avenal,' he says. 'Cal, you and Rickenbacker better get back to your roadster. We've gotta get moving.'</p>
- <p>With a growl of contempt, Avenal barges his way past you and climbs into the truck's cab. Cutter slams the door shut, and, as he starts to walk away, you decide that now would be the best time to tell him about the rockfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The coarse stammer of the clansman's machine pistol is the last sound you hear. Sharp, stinging cores of pain punch you repeatedly in the stomach and fearfully you clasp your hands to your midriff as you tumble backwards into the hollow. Warm blood oozes between your fingers, but although you are incapable of moving, you no longer feel pain. Aware that you have been shot, and that the shock of your wounds has numbed your senses, you close your eyes and slip away into the timeless embrace of death.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Round Mountain.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the pick-up and the pump house for some tubing with which to siphon some fuel, but your search proves fruitless. Resignedly you set to work drawing water the hard way, pumping it up from the well by means of a small hand crank. The crank was originally designed for obtaining small samples for scientific analysis, and it takes you nearly two hours of exhausting labour to extract the sixty gallons you require, and then load the heavy containers on to the truck.</p>
- <p>Despite several rests and drinks of water, you lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points owing to fatigue. (If you wish, you may take this opportunity to refill your water canteen.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect243"><link-text>Turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the pain that is coursing through your arms, you stretch out and grasp the rope with your right hand. Then you take hold of it with your left, and slowly you are hoisted away from the crumbling edge. As your companions lift you eagerly to your feet, you notice an expanding circle of ripples in the river below. They mark the final resting place of your Roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect78-1-foot" idref="sect78-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the trigger, and see the clansman hesitate in mid-step as your bullet punctures his chest.<a id="sect78-1" idref="sect78-1-foot" class="footnote" /> A moment later he returns fire, but the impact of your slug has been enough to divert his aim, and his bullet passes harmlessly over your head. He staggers, then falls, yet no sooner has his body hit the dirt than one of his screaming comrades leaps over him and dives headlong into the ditch. Growling like an angry dog, he knocks the pistol from your hand and lunges forwards to fasten his steely fingers around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Stonewall</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having dealt successfully with the locked doors, and eager to waste as little time as possible, you rush into the lobby and run straight towards the reception counter. But you have taken only a few strides when a group of clansmen appear in a corridor opposite. They command you to stop as they advance towards the counter. Expecting trouble, all of them are armed and extremely nervous.</p>
- <p>You raise your hands in surrender, but when the leading clansmen see that you are not an Outlaw, and that you are armed, they panic and immediately open fire. Pain explodes in your chest as a dozen bullets knock you backwards off your feet. For a moment you see an intense white light, then it dissolves into a darkness from which you will never emerge.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your journey end here in the lobby of the Casa Grande General Hospital.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The elation you feel at having found the medicine store is dampened when you take stock of your surroundings. Tens of thousands of bottles and containers line the shelves, not only in this room but in several other adjoining storage areas as well. And to make matters worse, there seems to be no logical order to the way the medicines have been stored. It could take you a week or more to inspect them individually.</p>
- <p>Hoping to get lucky, you search the shelves for the better part of an hour until you notice, by chance, that the base of each container carries an index number. Now you concentrate your efforts on finding the catalogue, or file, that is the key to this storage system. Ironically, you discover it<ch.emdash/>a weighty computer print-out<ch.emdash/>lying in a drawer of the table on which you took refuge from the cockroaches.</p>
- <p>Within minutes of finding the print-out, you locate a tub of Atropine tablets. You check that its seal is intact, then slip the tub into your pocket as you hurry back to the roadster. (You need not make a record of the Atropine on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect232"><link-text>Turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The steepness of the embankment is making it difficult for the clansman to maintain his balance. Before he can steady himself to take an aimed shot, you raise your Brushmaster and fire a round at his chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score. </p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total score is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total score is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you have him in your sights, you thumb down the safety-catch and squeeze off a round aimed at his upper torso. The Beretta kicks in your hand and, for a brief moment, you lose sight of your target as the muzzle rises with the recoil.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it you Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mad Dog launches a wild, sweeping slice at your head. You avoid instant decapitation by rolling across the debris-strewn floor, but, as you rise to your feet, a wave of dizziness robs you momentarily of your sight, and you stumble backwards against the wall. Your vision clears, and as Mad Dog approaches, you duck below his wild sweeps and thrust your weapon at his chest. You draw first blood. The clan leader squeals like a stuck pig and pulls away, but quickly recovers and attacks like a man possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Dog Michigan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To reduce the risk of running unexpectedly into a clan patrol, you leave Interstate 10 at the first opportunity and follow the turgid waters of the Santa Cruz River north towards Arizona City. The river takes you through the heart of the town's suburban neighbourhoods, now little more than a vast, featureless sprawl of derelict homes and ruined factories. You head for Santa Vaya, the highest of the town's districts, for it is from here that you will best be able to see Macy and Langdon's signal.</p>
- <p>It takes you the better part of two hours to discover the ideal place to set your fire. Built next to one another on a small industrial unit, you find a paint factory and a tyre dump. A fire at either of these places would be seen for miles, but fires at both, and at the same time, promises to be nothing short of spectacular.</p>
- <p>The flip of a coin decides that Rickenbacker will set fire to the tyre dump, leaving you with the task of firing the paint factory. Having parked the roadster a safe distance away, you approach the unit with gasolene cans in hand. You enter the factory through a hole in the fence and gain access to a storage warehouse filled with drums of inflammable polyurethane resins. The smell of burning rubber tells you that Rickenbacker has already set light to the dump, and prompts you to hurry as you douse the resin drums with gasolene. In your haste you inadvertently knock the barrel of your gun against a metal stair rail and cause a spark that ignites the gasolene prematurely. Within seconds, you find yourself having to run for your life.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>With a roar, the drums start to explode, showering the warehouse with liquid fire that triggers yet more explosions.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="618" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="618" />
- </illustration>
- <p>With a roar, the drums start to explode, showering the warehouse with liquid fire that triggers yet more explosions. With terror in your heart you look for a way to escape from the raging inferno. All you can see, through the billowing smoke and flame, is a staircase leading to an office on the first floor and a corridor marked by a sign that says:</p>
- <signpost>TEST LABORATORIES THIS WAY</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to climb the stairs to the office, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to follow the corridor to the test laboratories, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unstrap a pair of shovels from the side of the fuel tanker and hand one of them to Rickenbacker. Together you set to work helping the others clear a way through the landslide that is wide enough to allow the convoy to pass in line. With the temperature nudging 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the work soon becomes exhausting.</p>
- <p>You must now take two Drinks or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your eyes fixed on the fleeing clansman, you weave your way through the barbecue ranges and set off after him. Rickenbacker, having reloaded a fresh magazine, gets up and begins to follow.</p>
- <p>The clansman reaches the restaurant cabin just as you emerge on to a track on the far side of the barbecue area. Then an unexpected burst of gunfire from the cabin doorway makes you dive for cover, and, moments later, you see something round and black fly out from the doorway and land on the path just a few yards away to your right.</p>
- <p>'Grenade!' shouts Rickenbacker, and he dives to the ground with his hands over his head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If the number you have picked is even (2, 4, 6, 8, 0), <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If the number you have picked is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brakes lock and the truck no longer responds to your steering. There is a shudder as both the off-side wheels slide over the edge, and your stomach churns as the vehicle tilts sideways. Jaeger screams and hopelessly he tries to open the door and jump out, but it is already too late. The last thing you see as you plummet over the edge is the rocky floor of the ravine rushing towards the windshield.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your journey and your life end here in the Mowhawk Mountains of Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast your eye across the landscape and, to your left, about 150 yards away, you spot an old cattle barn standing close to the banks of the Santa Rosa Wash.</p>
- <p>'Let's try over there,' you say, motioning to the north as you slump back into your seat.</p>
- <p>Driving as slowly as you dare in order not to stir up any dust and give away your position, you reach the old cattle barn and find it deserted. Rickenbacker pulls open its huge double doors and you park inside.</p>
- <p>Once you have switched off the engine, you join Rickenbacker at the knot-holed timber wall in time to see the two clan bikers stopping at the approach to the bridge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If the number you have picked is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If the number is 4-9, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw a close combat weapon and steel yourself to cross the roof. It is a daring attack, but at least you have the benefit of darkness and surprise.</p>
- <p>As you move stealthily towards the group, the clansman who is sitting with his back to the parapet sees you approaching. A wave of fear knots your stomach as expectantly you wait for him to shout out in alarm, but he does nothing to alert his companions.</p>
- <p>Instinct prompts you to act quickly in case he has a change of heart. Rushing forward, you get your forearm around the throat of the nearest shooter, and then wrench him away from the parapet. He drops his rifle over the edge and, as you pull him towards you, his partner turns and fires in panic. The burst of fire kills the clansman instantly, but you survive, shielded by his body. Shocked by what he has done, the clansman freezes, his eyes wide with disbelief, as his companion slumps dead at your feet. Before he recovers his senses, you jump forward and kick the assault rifle out of his hands, sending it sailing over the parapet. Before it hits the ground, you press home your advantage and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cape Cod</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of the attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses that you sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cock your gun and stand to the side of the lock to reduce the risk of being hit by a ricochet. Then you take aim at the keyhole and squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If the number you have picked is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If the number you have picked is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the dust that covers the ground you notice a set of footprints leading to one of the brick barbecue ranges situated fifteen yards away to your left. At once you reach for your gun and level it at the range, approaching it slowly. You have taken only a couple of steps when you hear the click of a firing bolt being cocked. In the next instant, the clansman rises up from behind the barbecue stand with a machine pistol held before him at waist level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you wish to fire at the clansman, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you do not wish to fire at him, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grenade passes over the truck and explodes, throwing little but dust and shrapnel into the air. The dull boom alerts the other clansmen and suddenly all hell breaks loose. They leap to their feet and come running across the bridge, cursing and fumbling for their weapons as they do so. You hobble to the truck and take cover as Rickenbacker, hoping to buy you the precious seconds you need in order to destroy the radio transceiver, opens fire at the approaching clansmen.</p>
- <p>As you move along the side of the truck, you notice a keg of blasting powder resting in the back with a self-lighting fuse attached to its top. Rather than attempting to batter the radio to pieces, you decide to blow it up instead. A sharp tug is all that is required to set off the fuse, then you run towards Rickenbacker as fast as your aching foot will allow. As you jump into the ditch, there is a jarring boom and a brilliant flash of bright orange flame as the truck explodes.</p>
- <p>'What the heck<ch.ellips/> !' gasps Rickenbacker, stunned by the unexpected force of the second explosion. </p>
- <p>'They had a keg of blasting powder in the back,' you cry, shouting to make yourself heard above the rumbling echo of the explosion. 'So I pulled the fuse"</p>
- <p>As the dust clears, the clansmen struggle to their feet and run towards the blazing remains of their truck. As they get nearer, you take up your gun and prepare to open fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tensely you watch as the two clansmen come to within 100 yards of your hiding place and stop their machines. One of them, a thin-limbed punk with a shaved head, takes up a pair of binoculars and focuses on the bridge, while the other, dressed in a blue denim boiler-suit, takes a long swig from a water canteen that is strapped to his chest. They exchange words, then the one with the field glasses points towards the east and together they turn their bikes around and go back the way they came.</p>
- <p>You watch as they slowly disappear. When you can no longer see them, you and Rickenbacker get back into the roadster and go north in search of a suitable place to cross Santa Rosa Wash.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339"><link-text>Turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect94-1-foot" idref="sect94-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire misses the fleeing traitor by a hand's breadth.<a id="sect94-1" idref="sect94-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The sheer closeness of it makes him dive to the ground, but when a second burst does not materialize, he scrambles quickly to his feet and runs head-up towards the waiting clan biker. The moment he is astride the pillion, the clansman winds back the throttle and the two of them make their getaway along a side street bordering the plaza.</p>
- <p>As the traitor and his confederate disappear, Rickenbacker and Cutter come running across the plaza and take cover with you behind the garbage cart. Quickly you tell them that Barlow has escaped and that you are now absolutely convinced he was guilty.</p>
- <p>'You're right,' says Cutter. 'He must have been a clan infiltrator. I'd hazard a guess that this whole attack was staged t' get him out o' here.'</p>
- <p>From behind the metal lip of the garbage cart you survey the battle that is raging around the plaza. Most of the colonists have now armed themselves and taken cover, and they are putting up a worthy defence of the vehicles. The few clansmen you do see are either dead or attempting to escape from the town now that they have achieved their objective. All of them, that is, apart from one. He is a blond-haired thug, dressed in a studded leather vest and striped pants, who is busy hammering at the glass door panels of the DC1 school bus with the stock of his machine pistol. The sight of him senselessly attacking the door of the empty bus does not bother you unduly until you remember that there is one person still on board the bus<ch.emdash/>Kate<ch.emdash/>and your heart nearly stops with shock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to open fire at the clansman before he gains entry to the bus, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you do not wish to open fire at the clansman, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect95-1-foot" idref="sect95-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you wind the strap of your rifle around your left forearm for extra stability, then settle against the lip of the hollow and take aim at the distant figure. When you are sure that you are on target, you fire, but at that precise moment a cloud of oily smoke wafts up from the burning barricade and obscures your view.<a id="sect95-1" idref="sect95-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The smoke clears quickly, but when it does there is no trace of Mad Dog Michigan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stop the vehicle and tell Rickenbacker what you have seen up ahead. Together you stare at the outcrop for more than a minute but notice nothing unusual.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ>, or a <typ class="item">Combat Viewer</typ>, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you do not possess any of these items, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Another broken note from the tow truck warns everyone that you are approaching downtown El Centro. The ruined buildings, which rush past on either side, seem empty at first. Then you notice an occasional group of clansmen and women standing on the derelict street corners, and sporadic gunfire soon follows. Stray bullets strafe the convoy, but the damage is slight and you manage to reach Interstate 8 without sustaining any casualties.</p>
- <p>The convoy maintains its fast pace, which has undoubtedly saved you from a serious encounter with the Chargers clan. Not until at least ten miles have been put between you and the city of El Centro does the convoy abandon its break-out formation and stop briefly to make a damage check. </p>
- <p>You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296"><link-text>Turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect98-1-foot" idref="sect98-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shot goes wide, tearing a chunk of masonry from the parapet of the roof to the left of the clan group.<a id="sect98-1" idref="sect98-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Alerted by the noise and the muzzle flash, the two riflemen swing around and pour a withering hail of automatic fire at you. You try to duck back, but an agonizing pain erupts in the centre of your forehead and you are lifted off your feet by the force of the high-velocity bullet that has penetrated your skull.</p>
- <p>Blinded and numbed by the shock of impact, you fail to stop yourself from tumbling over the edge of the fire escape platform. Mercifully, death claims you before you crash head-first through the roof of the clan truck that is parked in the alley below.</p>
- <p>Your journey and your life terminate here at Wellton, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Those responsible for looting Eloy did a very thorough job of cleaning out the gun store. Virtually every item of stock has been taken, including a collection of animal trophies that were once displayed around the walls. The only thing displayed there now are crude skull-and-crossbones motifs, daubed on with shiny black paint.</p>
- <p>You sift through the debris-covered floor, but it is not until you look in the basement that you discover some items of practical value:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Two rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Four rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- <li>Five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Hunting Knife (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">To leave the gun store and return to your roadster, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'My name's Brent Jaeger,' he says, and tentatively offers his hand in friendship. Rickenbacker hesitates, then shakes it, and at once the man seems to relax, as if a weight has been lifted from his shoulders.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>'My name's Brent Jaeger,' he says, and tentatively offers his hand in friendship. </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="551" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="551" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'For a minute there I thought you two were clansmen,' he says. 'You can't be too careful in these parts.'</p>
- <p>'Where you from?' you ask.</p>
- <p>'I've made my way up from Panama, mostly on foot. I've got the blisters to prove it, too. I was working on the canal when HAVOC pulled the plug. I was lucky, I found a safe zone in the jungle and waited there for spring to come around again. It's sure been a long time comin'. Since things have settled I've been making my way north. I'm lookin' to get back home to San Francisco.'</p>
- <p>'You're lucky you've got this far on your own,' you say.</p>
- <p>'There were three of us when we started out, but the heat and the clans did for my friends and now I'm the only one left. I'm gonna make it, if only for their sakes.'</p>
- <p>To avoid the sun, you and Rickenbacker accept Jaeger's offer to share the shade of his makeshift tent while he continues his story. 'I heard about the scene in California from some survivalists I stayed with for a while, down in Alamos. Sounds like they've gone an' turned the state into one big fortress. The army's in charge and they've got things locked down tight. They've kicked all the troublemakers out into the desert and slammed the door. In the south, I hear they've drawn up a new state line, from Pine Valley to Banning. All the old roads in and out are guarded and I hear they've got real picky 'bout who they let in.'</p>
- <p>He reaches over to a tattered denim jacket lying on the ground, and takes an equally tattered map from an inside pocket. 'I plan on going in here,' he says, pointing to a part of the map that is so worn that it has become almost illegible. 'It's a place in the mountains, north of Lake Henshaw. I figure that the army can't have enough men to patrol that area too well. If you two'd take my advice, you'd think 'bout doin' the same.'</p>
- <p>You tell Jaeger how you survived the post-holocaust years. You also tell him that you are acting as scouts for a convoy that is equally determined to reach California, only they are now so short of food and water that unless fresh supplies are found soon, few of them are likely to survive the 400 miles that separate you from the Pacific.</p>
- <p>'Man, you guys have got problems,' he says, shaking his head slowly from side to side. 'And you're headin' slap-bang into even more. Ain't you heard<ch.emdash/>Yuma is a clan base. And believe me, the guys that are holding that city are heavy-duty bad news. If you're thinkin' of crossing the Colorado River there, forget it. You'll never make it. They'll blow you off the road.'</p>
- <p>Concerned by what Jaeger has said, and anxious that he tell everything he knows about the clan base at Yuma, you ask him to return to the convoy with you. After some thought he decides that at least there is safety in numbers, and agrees to join the colony. When you get back to Dateland, Macy and Langdon are shocked to see three people squeezed into your roadster, but you soon explain Jaeger's background, and they offer to transport him in their Trans-sol, which at least has the luxury of rear passenger seats. During your absence they have managed to forage some food, which you divide between you before you return to the convoy at Aztec.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The steep slope and loose earth is causing the clansman difficulty as he tries to steady himself to take aim. You see his hesitation as you raise your rifle to your shoulder, fix the sights on his chest, and quickly pull the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down on the broken roadway with your arms outstretched and your hands scrabbling to find something to cling to. An exposed steel rod falls beneath your grasp and you grab at it with bloodied fingers. Below, you hear a loud splash as your roadster crashes into the Colorado River; above, there is the rumble of falling debris. Then a shower of dust and loose stones hits your head. They graze your scalp and make you cough violently: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Bravely you hang on to the corroded steel rod, praying all the while for Rickenbacker and the others to come to your aid. When they do arrive they throw you the end of a rope, which lands close to your right shoulder, and urge you to take hold of it so that they can pull you to safety.</p>
- <p>With difficulty, you grasp the rope and slowly you are hoisted away from the crumbling edge. As eager hands lift you to your feet, you notice an expanding circle of ripples in the river below. They mark the final resting place of your roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim and fire at a point waist-high in the centre of the hut's wooden panelling, to the left of the open door. Your gunfire blasts a large hole in the rotten timbers, and you can now see that the hut is empty. (Remember to erase this round of fire from your Ammo Pouch.)</p>
- <p>Cursing your luck you turn to look elsewhere for clues to his whereabouts. Then, as you move away from the playground, a burst of automatic gunfire rings out from the other side of the site.</p>
- <p>'Rickenbacker,' you whisper to yourself, as you turn to run back towards the truck and the parking lot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Red Rock, a call comes through on the transceiver in Macy and Langdon's car. It is Pop Ewell radioing to tell you that the convoy is now ready to leave Tucson. You report that the freeway is clear as far as Red Rock, and that you will continue ahead and scout Eloy, the next major town on Interstate 10.</p>
- <p>North of Red Rock, the freeway climbs towards a mountain pass called the Picacho, and the surrounding craggy peaks strike you as ideal sniper territory. Rather than run the risk of being ambushed, you decide to pull over, and signal to Macy and Langdon to do likewise. You point out the risk but they are not convinced: they have scouted this territory many times in the past few months and they feel you are being too careful. So confident are they that the pass is deserted, they volunteer to check it out on their own. Reluctantly you agree to their request.</p>
- <p>While you wait for them to return, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163"><link-text>Turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice a Hunting Knife (2) lying nearby, on top of an office cabinet, and quickly grab it as Mad Dog launches a wild, sweeping slice at your head. You avoid instant decapitation by rolling across the debris-strewn floor, but, as you rise to your feet, a wave of dizziness robs you momentarily of your sight, and you stumble backwards against the wall. Your vision clears, and, as Mad Dog approaches, you duck below his wild sweeps and thrust your weapon at his chest. You draw first blood. The clan leader squeals like a stuck pig and pulls away, but quickly recovers and attacks like a man possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Dog Michigan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pump a double-A target load into the breech of your Brushmaster as you bring the gun up to your shoulder. The instant the traitor appears in front of your foresight, you track him for a few steps then pull the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the grenade from your pack and set its variable timer to detonate ten seconds after the pin is pulled. Then you wedge it between the door handles, ease out the pin, and run for cover at the end of the corridor. The grenade explodes with a flash and a dull boom that rips both doors clean off their hinges and fills the corridor with acrid, grey smoke. You rise to your feet and wait for the smoke to thin out before you head back towards the smouldering remains of the doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets hit the ground in a line that follows your dive. In your desperation to avoid being hit, you have launched yourself on a collision course with one of the barbecue stands. You smash your forehead against the brick stack and knock yourself unconscious. You rebound from the stack and fall flat on your back, helpless to prevent the clansman from shooting you through the heart.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here in Picacho, California.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'I count six of them <ch.ellips/> and a truck,' says Rickenbacker, as he peers through the dirty windshield at the distant bridge: 'They're from Yuma,' offers Cookie. 'Puma scouts. Probably part of the group that came lookin' for me.'</p>
- <p>Carefully you assess the situation. A frontal attack on the bridge could prove costly, and the long whiplash aerial that you see fixed to the clansmen's pick-up can only mean that they are in contact with their base at Yuma. It would not take very long for their leader, Pentagon, to send reinforcements if the scouts radioed that they were under attack. The foul, black waters of the Gila River may look uninviting, but at least they are shallow and fordable, and it would be easy for you to circle around this bridge in the pick-up and cross further upstream, where you could not be seen. However, no matter how shallow the water, the convoy's buses would never make it. No, the only way the convoy is going to reach the Imperial Reservoir is by crossing here at this bridge.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker, who has been given a transceiver by Pop Ewell, radios the convoy to inform them of the situation. At once they suspect that Cookie is trying to lead you into a trap. He denies the charge, and in order to prove his good intent, he offers to try to lure the clansmen away from the bridge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If the number is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Thankfully you have an ampoule of snake bite serum in your Medi-kit pouch. With trembling hands, you inject the life-saving serum into your forearm and gradually the pain and the trembling subsides (remember to erase this Medi-kit unit from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). Unfortunately, as the serum eradicates the toxins in your blood, it causes you to be violently sick: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes, the sickness disappears, but the side-effects of the serum leave you weak and dehydrated. You must now take two Drinks or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As soon as you are able, you take your hard-earned case of food and return with it to your roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of burning heat lashes your back and tightens the skin on your face and hands as you sprint towards the test laboratories. The explosions are growing louder and more frequent, and the floor shudders violently beneath your feet. You are only a few feet from the door to the first laboratory when a sudden gush of scorching air makes you cry out in pain. It shrivels your eyelashes and blisters the lining of your nose and throat: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Beyond the door you discover a room filled with electrical test equipment. There is no other door from the room and the corridor is now so full of toxic smoke that it would be suicidal to go back that way. Only the windows offer any chance of escape from the inferno, but when you take a closer look at them your heart sinks. They are armoured panels: a criss-cross of wire netting sandwiched between two sheets of plate glass, each 25mm thick!</p>
- <p>As the paint on the inside of the laboratory door blisters and ignites, you hammer frantically at the window with the butt of your gun.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score. If you possess a Monkey Wrench, a Hammer, or a Baseball Bat, add 2 points to your score. If you possess a Fire Axe, add 4 points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you speed away from the pass, Rickenbacker glances over his shoulder at the settling mound of rock. 'That's one mess that's gonna take a while to clear up,' he says, trying to make light of your close escape.</p>
- <p>'Yeah,' you mumble in reply, thinking about the unenviable task that lies ahead. Minutes later, as you approach the town where the convoy is waiting, you begin to dread breaking the bad news to the colonists. Unfortunately, there is far worse news awaiting you and Rickenbacker on your return to Smurr.</p>
- <choice idref="sect"><link-text>Turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect113-1-foot" idref="sect113-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your gun and fire at the first enemy clansman you see, but your gunfire is rushed and poorly aimed and misses him by a wide mark.<a id="sect113-1" idref="sect113-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>One of the raiding party singles you out as a target. His burst of fire rips up the ground around your feet, and you are knocked down by a ricocheting slug: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">To continue, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The colony agrees to let Cookie attempt his plan, but they also warn you and Rickenbacker to watch him closely. Still they do not trust him and they are afraid that he will try to betray the convoy's presence in the area. Before they sign off, they tell you to maintain radio silence until the bridge is clear, just in case the clansmen are monitoring the frequencies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30"><link-text>Turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your vehicle to a halt at the side of the freeway and watch the man. He is moving slowly, his head bent, and he appears to be stabbing randomly at the ground with a spear-like stick. So preoccupied is he with whatever it is that he is doing, that he has not noticed you approaching the bridge.</p>
- <p>'He looks harmless. I think we should check him out,' says Rickenbacker, reaching behind your driving seat for his machine pistol. He cocks the bolt, then adds: 'But I think we should take out some insurance.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ>, or a <typ class="item">Combat Viewer</typ>, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you do not possess any of these items, you agree to Rickenbacker's request and decide to investigate the situation further; <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You disappear behind the barbecue range moments before the clansman's bullets tear into the brickwork with shattering effect. You hear the chatter of a second gun, then suddenly there is silence. Cautiously you peer around the corner of your brick shield to see Rickenbacker walking towards you, changing the magazine of his machine pistol as he wends his way through the ranges.</p>
- <p>A few feet away you see a pair of booted feet. You move out further until the whole of the clansman's body is visible. His hands are twitching, then abruptly they relax, as if resigned to the fate that has befallen the rest of the body.</p>
- <p>As Rickenbacker comes nearer he calls out your name. His face is lined with worry until you pull yourself to your feet and acknowledge his call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansmen come to within 100 yards of the bridge and then stop their machines. One of them takes up a pair of binoculars and views the area, while the other takes a long swig from a water canteen that is strapped to his chest. They exchange words, then the one with the field glasses points towards the east and together they turn their bikes around and go back the way they came.</p>
- <p>You watch as they disappear slowly. When you can no longer see them, you and Rickenbacker leave the barn and go north in search of a suitable place to cross the Santa Rosa Wash.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339"><link-text>Turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stop to pull the extinguisher from your pack, then you rush forward and train it on the side of the Landcruiser, aiming it at a hole in the luggage compartment door created by the fire. The foam gushes into the hole and arrests the flames just long enough for Cutter and a handful of the Tucson colonists to arm themselves with fire-fighting equipment and come to your assistance before your extinguisher runs out. (Remember to delete this item from your list of Backpack Items.)</p>
- <p>Your bravery and presence of mind have prevented the fire from igniting the vehicle's fuel tanks. However, there was nothing you could do to save the contents of the compartment, which included all the colony's food and a large percentage of its water supply.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145"><link-text>Turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You know that you must prevent the clansman from reaching the truck and radioing his base: the safety of the entire colony might depend on it. Fired with urgency, you leap up and sprint across the shallow river, then climb a sandy path that takes you directly to the truck. The clansman is leaning across the driver's seat, fumbling with the radio's dials, when you reach him. Quickly you drag him out of the cab by his legs. He struggles frantically, twisting back and forth like an angry snake, to break free from your vice-like grip. Then he lands a lucky punch that sends you reeling (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point). Before you can recover, he draws a blade from his belt and attempts to stab you through the heart.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bravo</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Because you have been knocked down, you are unable to make use of a close combat weapon until the second round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the truck and run towards a gap between two of the cabins. Beyond lies a playground equipped with swings, slides and see-saws, all fashioned from logs. In the middle of this play area stands a small, wooden hut. Its thin timber door stands open, and inside you can see a workbench and a rack filled with carpentry tools.</p>
- <p>Add together your Field Craft and Perception skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If your total is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If your total is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you inform your fellow judges of your decision and, after a brief consultation, Pop Ewell announces the verdict.</p>
- <p>'By the majority decision of this tribunal, we find Paul Avenal guilty of the murder of Michael Gorgas in the first degree. This crime is a capital offence punishable by death by firing squad. The sentence is to be carried out immediately.'</p>
- <p>Upon hearing the verdict, the surrounding colonists utter a sound that is full of shocked disbelief. Avenal's face turns white and limply he staggers back into the arms of the Tucson escorts. A lone voice in the crowd demands a re-trial, but it is ignored. Then another voice rings out, but this time it captures everyone's attention. It is Macy, the convoy's lookout, and he is screaming words that make your blood run cold.</p>
- <p>'The Outlaws are attacking!'</p>
- <p>Without further warning, two grenades explode simultaneously in the town square and the chatter of machine gun fire echoes along the empty side streets. Screams of panic mingle with the dull booms of more explosions as the colonists rush to the vehicles to try to retrieve their weapons before it is too late. A burst of gunfire from a rooftop stitches a line of holes across the table and sends you, and the other judges, diving for cover. Suddenly everything is chaos; it's every man for himself. You grab your gun and scurry towards a garbage cart that lies overturned on the plaza. As you skid to a halt behind the cart, you find yourself face to face with Avenal, the man you have just sentenced to death. The confrontation is shocking, but it is the sight of the pistol that he is holding in his hand that really strikes terror in your heart.</p>
- <p>With a determined look in his eyes he raises the gun towards your head.</p>
- <p>'No! <ch.ellips/>' you scream, and you close your eyes as his finger snatches repeatedly at the trigger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect122-1-foot" idref="sect122-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire a short burst and see the clansman shudder as a line of bullet holes appears across his chest.<a id="sect122-1" idref="sect122-1-foot" class="footnote" /> A second later he returns fire, but the impact of your slugs has diverted his aim and his bullet passes harmlessly over your shoulder. He staggers and falls. No sooner has his body hit the dirt than one of his screaming comrades leaps over him and dives straight at you with his hands outstretched. Before you can fire again, he grapples the machine pistol from your hands, then lunges forwards to fasten his steely fingers around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Blowback</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the suddenness of the attack, you cannot make use of a close combat weapon until the second round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crackle of the clansmen's gunfire fills your ears as their car speeds nearer and nearer. It holds to the centre of the road: clearly they intend to ram you out of their path.</p>
- <p>'Make it count!' you cry, as you open fire. You feel your gun recoil and in the next instant you see their windshield crack and shatter.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of being caught by your vehicle's lights soon gives way to suspicion, and then anger. One of the clansmen shakes his fist and shouts abuse at you. His partner tells him to forget it and get inside out of the storm, but he ignores the advice and starts walking towards you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If the number you have picked is 0-4, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'It's no good,' you say in frustration. 'I can't see a thing, I s'pose we'll have to go down there and check it out the hard way.'</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker agrees, then he radios the convoy to inform them of your decision and they request that you call in every five minutes. If you fail to call, they will assume you are in trouble and send a group to come to your rescue.</p>
- <p>'Ten-four,' replies your partner. 'Over and out.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect278"><link-text>Turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Consciously you try to control your breathing, as you get ready to launch your attack. Then, the instant you are composed, you rise above the parapet and bring your gun to bear on the enemy group.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ease yourself out of the driving seat and take cover behind the trunk with Rickenbacker.</p>
- <p>'You go left,' you whisper, 'and I'll go right. Circle him, OK?'</p>
- <p>'OK,' comes your partner's terse reply, and then he moves off, using the scrub to cover his approach to the bridge.</p>
- <p>You adopt the same tactic and close in on the bridge until you can see the man clearly. He is crouching close to the tent, his thin, bearded face twitching and awash with sweat. Then he catches sight of Rickenbacker and he panics, throwing down his shotgun and taking off across the bridge at a run. You chase after him and bring him down near the middle of the bridge with a tackle that would once have earned you a try-out with the L.A. Raiders. It slams him to the ground and empties the air from his lungs.</p>
- <p>'Don't <ch.ellips/> hurt <ch.ellips/> me <ch.ellips/>' he gasps. 'I'm not gonna hurt you, bud,' you reply, and pull him to his feet. As you are bringing him back across the bridge, Rickenbacker approaches from the scrub.</p>
- <p>'OK, wise guy,' he says, pretending to be angry. 'Who are you and what are you doin' here?'</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you struggle with your enemy, you hear a single shot and feel the strength draining from his hands. Suddenly he releases his grip on you altogether and a gurgling croak issues from his mouth. With some difficulty, you manage to push him aside and, as he rolls away into the base of the hollow, you see Kate nearby with a smoking revolver in her hand:</p>
- <p>'I guess that makes us quits,' you say, referring to the time, only days before, when your successful search for Atropine saved her life.</p>
- <p>'I guess so,' she replies, 'but who's counting?'</p>
- <p>Shortly after, two more clansmen attempt to copy their actions, but end up exactly the same way<ch.emdash/>lying in a tangled heap on the railroad tracks. For a minute there is a lull in the fighting, then you spot a new threat taking shape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nobody sees you leave Gila Bend. Hidden by the storm, you drive south, along Highway 85 towards the obscured peaks of the Sauceda Mountains. Occasionally the storm lets up long enough for you to make out a road sign, or the ruins of a motel, but for the most part of an hour and a half you see nothing but swirling dust on the road ahead.</p>
- <p>During your lonely drive you must take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and eat a Meal (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After ten minutes of unproductive tinkering with the lock, you resign yourself to the fact that it could take you forever to open it this way. If you are to gain access to the lobby you will have to come up with another method of getting past these doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you decide to shoot open the lock, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you wish to try to barge open the doors, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess an HE Grenade, and wish to use it to blow open the doors, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you bring the truck to a halt, Rickenbacker takes up his machine pistol in expectation of trouble. The clansman seems to be alone, and you notice that there is only one motorcycle parked beside the cabin from which he emerged. This cabin stands at the entrance to what was once a state-run campsite.</p>
- <p>After a few seconds, the clansman's smile wears thin. He takes up a pair of binoculars, which are hanging around his neck, and focuses them on your truck. With a start, he drops them, turns, and runs through the campsite entrance.</p>
- <p>'He's seen us!' hisses Rickenbacker. 'Quick Cal, let's get him before he gets away.'</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you put your foot down and drive through the entrance gate. Beyond lies a cluster of log cabins, grouped in a horseshoe formation around a central parking area. As you squeal to a halt, the clansman is nowhere to be seen. 'We've gotta find him<ch.ellips/>, and quick!' says Rickenbacker, leaping from the passenger door. 'You search one side of the camp and I'll search the other.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to search the cabins on the south side of the campsite, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to search the cabins on the north side of the campsite, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect132-1-foot" idref="sect132-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your burst of gunfire hits both of the riflemen, sending them tumbling over the edge of the parapet.<a id="sect132-1" idref="sect132-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The remaining clansman, whom you first saw seated next to the parapet, cowers on the ground like a frightened child as you rush across the roof. His hands have been tied behind his back and, as you bend to grab hold of his arms to pull him to his feet, he pleads for his life. 'Don't kill me, please don't kill me,' he cries. 'I'll help you; I can help you, if you'll just let me live.'</p>
- <p>You shout an all clear to Rickenbacker in the street below, and, as you turn your face away, you see the headlights of the convoy vehicles as they enter the town.</p>
- <p>Without untying his hands, you escort the clansman down slowly from the roof and retrace your steps along the alley that leads back to the main street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blond-haired thug has just placed one foot on the short flight of steps that ascends into the bus when you squeeze the trigger of your Beretta 92. It is a snap shot, for he is entering the bus quickly and you are afraid that he will disappear if you stop to steady your aim.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets hit the ground in a line that follows that of your dive. In your desperation to avoid being hit, you misjudge your dive and smash your chin against the edge of the hollow. As you rebound from the collision, three of the clansman's bullets hit you in the chest and arm: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you have survived this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Let's get 'em before they get us,' you say, and drop back down into your seat.</p>
- <p>Driving as slowly as you dare in order not to stir up any dust and give away your position, you steer your roadster towards a large clump of sagebrush and pi<ch.ntilde/>on, and cut the engine the moment it is hidden from view.</p>
- <p>Silently the two of you take to the bushes and wait for the bikers to approach.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If the number you have chosen is 0-3, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If the number is 4-9, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rickenbacker stands guard over the roadster while you walk back along the line of convoy vehicles looking for Mike Gorgas. Eventually you see him: he is sitting on the running board of his Mack truck, issuing specific instructions for the journey ahead to a ring of convoy drivers who have gathered around his vehicle. You wait until the circle of men have received their briefing, then you approach Mike and report what has happened to your brakes.</p>
- <p>'This is real serious,' he says, casting an anxious glance at the convoy drivers as they make their way back to their vehicles. 'And it's not the first time something like this has happened.'</p>
- <p>He tells you that yesterday, shortly after you and Rickenbacker had started the fires in Arizona City, there was an incident aboard the Amcorp Landcruiser<ch.emdash/>the convoy's largest passenger vehicle. A signal flare went off as the convoy reached the intersection with Interstate 8. It had been placed among some luggage that was strapped to the roof.</p>
- <p>'Luckily your diversion was so effective that the flare wasn't seen by the Outlaws,' says Mike, 'but I'm beginning to smell a rat. Kate Norton goes down with food poisoning despite the fact that the food was triple-checked before we left Tucson, and now you discover that your brake cables have been cut. I think there's someone among us who doesn't want the colony to reach California. I don't know for sure who it is, but I've got my suspicions. I found this attached to the signal flare,' he says, and removes a small, soot-blackened box from his jacket. 'It's a radio detonator. It was used to set off the flare.' He slips the box back into his pocket and continues in a hushed voice. 'Keep your eyes open, Cal. Once we've put some mileage between us and the Outlaws, I'll get to the bottom of this, that's a promise, but for now, you keep what I've said to yourself, OK?' You nod in agreement and then make your way back to Rickenbacker and your roadster.</p>
- <p>During your absence your partner has replaced the damaged brake lines and replenished the fluid level. He asks you what Gorgas had to say about the fact that your brakes had been sabotaged, but you evade his question by saying that he was too busy briefing the other drivers for you to be able to speak to him. Understandably, Rickenbacker is more than a little concerned that the sabotage has gone unreported, but he decides, at least for the moment, not to take it any further.</p>
- <p>The storm clouds over Gila Bend may have dispersed, but for you they have been replaced by darker clouds of doubt and suspicion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are frozen in terror by the sight of the whirling metallic disc, and find yourself incapable of taking action to avoid being hit. With a loud crunch, the auto disc cuts its way through your windshield and buries itself deep in your chest: death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A tough-faced clansman dressed in a patched, silver, air-con riding suit leads the charge, his muscular legs propelling him effortlessly up the gradient that leads away from the bridge. The moment he sees you crouching in the ditch, he levels his pistol and attempts to shoot you before you can squeeze off your first round of fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If it is Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Acting instinctively, you throw yourself out of the path of the falling machine and narrowly avoid being crushed to death when it slams into the floor and disintegrates.</p>
- <p>You sustain cuts to your hands and knees when you land among the debris (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but at least you emerge from the warehouse with your life, and the case of food, intact.</p>
- <p>Still trembling with the shock of your close encounter, you take up your hard-won food and carry it back to your roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you push open the door. The room beyond is dimly lit by the glow from the roadster's headlights, which filters in through an open window. The light is just enough for you to make out something moving near to the ground. Suddenly a howl splits the silence and the dark shape leaps up at your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Suddenly a howl splits the silence and the dark shape leaps up at your chest.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="629" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="629" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Ravenous Coyote</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and surprise of the creature's attack, you are unable to evade it or to make use of a close combat weapon until the start of the third round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The retreat is only a short reprieve in the concerted clan attack. Almost immediately, several more trucks packed with Detroit Lions and supported by groups of Chargers come pouring through the gap in the barricade and deploy themselves on the freeway.</p>
- <p>Cutter appears on the slopes below. He is waving and calling for you to pull back along the freeway before it is too late. Opposite, your fellow defenders are taking the brunt of the attack, and you know that it will not be too long before some of that clan attention is transferred to your side of the freeway.</p>
- <p>'We're outta here!' you cry, and lead your tiny group down the slope towards a gully where Cutter is waiting. Without looking back, you run with the others until you reach a ranger's lodge, partially hidden by pines, less than a mile from the freeway. There you stop to catch your breath and, as you look around at the faces of your companions<ch.emdash/>Rickenbacker, Cutter, Kate, and Langdon<ch.emdash/>you wonder if this is all that now remains of the convoy's rearguard.</p>
- <p>Cutter looks at his wristwatch and says: 'It's 11:05. The convoy should have made it by now. I'm gonna try and contact them by radio.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the smash of glass startlingly loud in your right ear, then feel a searing pain shoot through your head from temple to temple. A flash of white light explodes before your eyes and suddenly you feel yourself falling forward into an all-consuming darkness. One of the clansman's bullets has passed through the window and lodged itself in your brain: death is virtually instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your journey and your life end here in Stanfield, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect143-1-foot" idref="sect143-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire and hit the clansman in the upper chest.<a id="sect143-1" idref="sect143-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The force of the impact, at such close range, sends his gun flying out of his hands and spins him backwards to the ground. For a few moments his limbs move jerkily, then his whole body relaxes as if resigned to its fate.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker appears at the edge of the barbecue area, drawn by the sound of gunfire. His face is lined with worry until he sees that you are still standing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wish Macy and Langdon good luck, then you watch as they drive off the freeway and make a wide detour around Red Rock. As soon as they are in position on the far side, you and Rickenbacker climb back into your roadster and drive slowly towards the town. You stop fifty yards short of the suspect clan car, check your weapons, then creep forward on foot to take a closer look.</p>
- <p>While Rickenbacker acts as lookout, you search the interior of the abandoned vehicle. Apart from some discarded food wrappers, a damaged water canteen and a few items of clothing, the car is empty. You are walking to the rear of the car, intent on searching the trunk, when suddenly Rickenbacker shouts out in alarm: 'Look out! Over there<ch.ellips/>'</p>
- <p>His warning is lost in the sound of gunfire. The staccato hammering of a machine pistol splits the air and, in the brief moment in which you throw yourself to the ground instinctively, you catch sight of a shadowy figure firing at you from the doorway of a store across the street.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If your total score is 13 or less, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If your total score is 14 or more, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once the fire has been extinguished completely, you join the others in examining the charred remains for signs of what could have started the blaze. The stench of burnt food hangs heavily in the air, but it does not completely mask another smell: the oily aroma of gasolene. Nobody dares to say anything but you know that you are not alone in suspecting that this was no accidental fire.</p>
- <p>Fortunately, the blaze was extinguished before it had caused major structural damage to the Landcruiser. The vehicle is still serviceable, although repairs will be needed before it can continue. As chief mechanic, Cutter examines the vehicle and estimates that the repairs will take at least four hours to complete. With sunset little more than three hours away, it is decided that the colony will camp here in Sentinel overnight, then continue west at first light.</p>
- <p>For protection, the convoy vehicles are drawn up nose-to-tail in a wide circle that skirts around the town's main plaza. Those not involved with the repair of the Landcruiser are dispatched in groups to hunt for food, but very little is found among the dust-blown ruins of this derelict town. At dusk, after a sparse meal, the colony's senior members decide that it would be an opportune time to consider the fate of Rex Tyler. A large table and seven chairs are salvaged from a nearby furniture store, and set up in the middle of the plaza where the trial is to be conducted. A discussion is held to determine the seven colonists who would be best suited, by virtue of their fairness and objectivity, to hear Rex Tyler's case and judge whether he is guilty or innocent of the murder of Mike Gorgas.</p>
- <p>At length the names of the seven judges are determined by popular vote and the list is read aloud to the gathered colony. Pop Ewell, Cutter Jacks and Uncle Jonas are chosen from DC1, Bob Grant from Big Spring, and Alice Yardum and Patrick Ohlde from Tucson. None of these choices come as a surprise, for they are the six most senior and valued members of the colony. But the seventh choice does evoke some murmurs from the gathered colonists. The seventh judge is you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225"><link-text>Turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The darkness makes it difficult to pinpoint the shadowy clansmen with any accuracy, so you trust to your skill with a shotgun and fire at the centre of the group.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If your total score is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutter tells you and Rickenbacker to follow him to the rear of the gas tanker. There, he connects the tanker's filler hose to the fuel discharge valve, then passes the nozzle of the hose to you. Together, you and Rickenbacker unwind it to its fullest extent, then signal to Cutter to open the valve. As the gasolene starts to gush from the nozzle, you and your partner walk along the line of parked vehicles and douse them liberally with fuel. Then, when the tanker is near empty, Cutter orders everyone to clear the area.</p>
- <p>You run to join Kate. She is crouching in a hollow on the lower slopes of Round Mountain, close to the freeway. It is a good position, giving a clear view of the bridge and the railroad beneath it. You have just settled into the space beside her when the first of the clan scouts appears in the distance, at the exit from Devil's Canyon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your would-be killer falls to the floor, you call out to Rickenbacker to check if he is all right. 'No problem,' he replies. 'This punk ain't gonna mess with no one no more.'</p>
- <p>A search of the clansmen's clothing reveals a collection of items, one of which<ch.emdash/>a Cigarette Lighter crudely engraved with a skull-and-crossbones motif<ch.emdash/>identifies them at Outlaws.</p>
- <p>From the other items, you sift the following which might be of use to you on the journey ahead:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Compass</typ></li>
- <li>Flick Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Meat Hook (2)</li>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Five rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Having satisfied yourselves that there is nothing else of practical use at the rest stop, you get back into the roadster and recommence your drive to Gila Bend.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13"><link-text>Turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you enter the pass and approach a section where a rocky outcrop overhangs the westbound Lanes of the freeway, you notice a glint of sunlight reflecting off something perched on the peak of the outcrop. It occurs to you that it could just be a trick of the light, but it could just as easily be a clan sniper lying in ambush!</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you wish to bring your roadster to a halt, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you decide to continue through the pass without slowing, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few minutes later, you see Pete and Rex Tyler's tow truck leading the convoy into the Picacho campsite. Few have eaten since the provisions were destroyed by fire back at Sentinel, so it comes as no surprise to see the colonists rushing expectantly towards the restaurant cabin the instant their vehicles halt. For a moment you fear that you will be crushed in the stampede, but with the help of Cutter and a few of the Tucson men, the hungry crowd is held at bay and order is swiftly restored. Then Cutter and his helpers ensure that the parcels of food are distributed fairly among the hungry colonists, and everyone settles down to enjoy an impromptu feast. (Your share of the feast restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>While everyone is eating, Pop Ewell attempts to call up the Californian army border post at Pine Valley, but still he is unable to make a clear radio contact. Maps are consulted and it is decided that an attempt should be made to reach the town of Glamis before nightfall. It lies only twenty-five miles due west, yet the rugged peaks of the Cargo Muchaco Mountains stand defiantly in your way. Although taking the colony and its vehicles over this range would be an impossible task, the mountains are scored and divided by many gullies and dry watercourses, and there is a strong possibility that a route through to Glamis could be found. However, to scout the mountains could take days.</p>
- <p>The problem seems insoluble until Rickenbacker suggests a novel solution to the dilemma.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231"><link-text>Turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nobody is very keen on the idea of having a clansman aboard, especially after the murder of Mike Gorgas and the clan attack at Sentinel, but most agree that having someone with a thorough knowledge of the area with you would raise your chances of survival considerably. Finally it is agreed to let Cookie stay with the colony, but on the condition that his hands remain tied and he is treated as a prisoner, not as a colonist.</p>
- <p>The night is spent at Wellton, during which time you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Early next morning, after you have fixed your front tyre, you and Rickenbacker set off in the roadster to scout the land around Yuma. What you discover there confirms Jaeger's story<ch.emdash/>the city is held in force. The Pumas have looted the ruins of the Yuma Marine Corps Air Station, and they possess some heavy ordnance, among which are several pieces of light artillery. Cookie says that they have the shells for these guns, and that they have all approach roads zeroed-in. To take the convoy anywhere within a three-mile radius of the city would be suicidal. However, you must get across the Colorado River if you are to reach your goal.</p>
- <p>Eager to prove his worth, Cookie offers to show you a way to avoid Yuma and cross the Colorado without getting your feet wet. Reluctantly the colony agrees to give him a chance, and allows him to be untied.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wave farewell to Macy and Langdon as you accelerate away from Dateland and follow the weathered asphalt of Interstate 8 west towards the town of Mohawk. Nine miles have been clocked on your odometer when a bridge appears in the distance, and you slow down in order to check it on your <a idref="map">map</a>.</p>
- <p>'That bridge must cross over the San Christobal Wash. Perhaps we'll get lucky and find there's some water still flowin' beneath it, eh?' you say, optimistically.</p>
- <p>'I wouldn't get your hopes up too high, Cal,' replies Rickenbacker, squinting against the glare of the sun. 'A dried-up salt bed is all we're likely to find.'</p>
- <p>As the bridge gradually looms larger, you see something that neither of you expected. A small, makeshift tent, consisting of little more than two groundsheets roped together, has been pitched against the side of the bridge to make a shelter from the sun, and a lean, bearded man is moving about nearby.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to stop and observe the man, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to slow down and approach the bridge with caution, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk back a few paces in order to get a run-up to the doors, then charge along the corridor and ram your shoulder against the centre. On the first attempt you rebound off the doors and find yourself lying flat on your back, staring up at a grimy light-fitment. The second try leaves you nursing a badly bruised shoulder<ch.emdash/>lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Finally, on the third attempt, the doors burst open and you stumble into the lobby beyond.</p>
- <p>A close study of the hospital plan reveals the location of the medicine storage facility, which you commit to memory.</p>
- <p>'Third right <ch.ellips/> second left <ch.ellips/> second right <ch.ellips/> you mumble as you set off in search of the vital Atropine you need to save Kate's life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few moments later, there is a terrific flash on the freeway as Mad Dog Michigan's speedster comes smashing through the burning barricade.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>There is a terrific flash on the freeway as Mad Dog Michigan's speedster come smashing through the burning barricade.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="624" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="624" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The speedster is badly damaged in the collision, but it creates a gap through which two more Lions clan trucks come racing, close behind the lead vehicle. They stop in the centre of the freeway and unload their passengers swiftly. The clansmen come racing up the slopes, on either side, with their guns blazing.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker appears and jumps into the hollow beside you and Kate. 'Now the fat's <ch.ellips/> in <ch.ellips/> the fire,' he says, labouring to catch his breath. 'Let's give 'em a welcome they won't forget in a hurry.'</p>
- <p>As the first of the Lions draw near to the hollow, you take up your gun once more and prepare to greet them with a hail of lead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If the weapon you are using is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If the weapon you are using is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If the weapon you are using is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly after noon, the colony arrives in Eloy. With a mixture of pride and apprehension, you watch as Pecos Pete's tow truck leads the convoy of fifteen vehicles along the main street, and brings them to a halt in a line outside the entrance to the town's municipal park. Kate waves at you from a window of the DC1 school bus and quickly you leave your roadster to meet her and the other colonists.</p>
- <p>Aunt Betty-Ann offers you some excellent food, which she has prepared especially for the journey, and while you and Kate are enjoying an unexpected meal together, Mike Gorgas, leader of the Tucson contingent, climbs aboard the bus to speak with you. The colony have decided that the idea of creating a diversion to draw the Outlaws away from the freeway intersection is the best chance they have of reaching Interstate 8 intact. He wants you and Rickenbacker to set fires in the suburbs of Arizona City that are big enough to draw the clansmen away. Macy and Langdon will watch the clan encampment, and as soon as they are sure that the plan is working, they will fire a distress flare. That will be the convoy's signal to move. It will also be your signal to get out of Arizona City as fast as you can. As soon as you are away, you are to head for the town of Gila Bend and rejoin the convoy there around sunset.</p>
- <p>After your meal, you say goodbye to Kate and try to assuage her fears by promising that you will take good care of yourself. The other members of the DC1 contingent wish you good luck, including your old friend Cutter Jacks, who wishes he could come with you. He assures you that, were it not for the bullet he caught in his arm when the convoy made the Slaughter Mountain run, you would have a hard job stopping him.</p>
- <p>Having said your farewells, you return to your roadster to find Rickenbacker loading two large jerry cans into the truck. They are filled with the gasolene you will need to set the fires. You help him strap them down, then both of you climb into the roadster and set off for Arizona City.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84"><link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman's bullets chase you as you dive to the ground, and punch a line of holes along the side of the truck. Several of the slugs penetrate a metal container full of industrial blasting powder, which is standing in the back. A spark, caused by a steel- jacketed bullet, ignites the powder with devastating effect. Suddenly there is a brilliant flash, and a deafening roar fills your ears as the truck and its contents are blown sky high.</p>
- <p>When the dust and debris have finally settled, you drag yourself to your feet and survey the destruction. The clansman did not survive the blast: his body lies a few yards away, stiff and lifeless. Across the river you can see Rickenbacker and Cookie running towards the bridge after completing their part of the plan successfully. They are relieved to see you alive. You join them in the middle of the bridge and together you return to the pick-up to report that the way across the Gila River is now clear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rex Tyler raises his pistol and takes careful aim at Barlow's fleeing form. He fires and hits him, clipping his shoulder and making him stumble. However, this is the only bullet left in his pistol and he has no spare ammunition. You watch as the traitor, clutching his bleeding arm, reaches the waiting clan biker and climbs astride the pillion. As soon as he is aboard, the clansman winds back the throttle and the two of them disappear in a cloud of exhaust smoke along a side street bordering the plaza.</p>
- <p>As the wounded traitor and his confederate disappear, Rickenbacker and Gutter come running across the plaza and take cover with you and Tyler behind the garbage cart. Quickly you recount what has happened here, and tell them how you are now absolutely convinced that Barlow was guilty.</p>
- <p>Understandably, Rex Tyler is more than a little upset that you ever suspected him in the first place.</p>
- <p>'You're right,' says Cutter, 'Barlow must have been a clan infiltrator. I'd hazard a guess that this whole attack was staged t' get him out o' here.'</p>
- <p>From behind the metal lip of the garbage cart you survey the battle that is raging around the plaza. Most of the colonists have now armed themselves and taken cover, and they are putting up a worthy fight in defence of the vehicles. The few clansmen you do see are either dead or attempting to escape from the town, now that they have achieved their objective. All of them, that is, apart from one. He is a blond-haired thug, dressed in a studded leather vest and striped pants, who is busy hammering at the glass door panels of the DC1 school bus with the stock of his machine pistol. The sight of him senselessly attacking the door of the empty bus does not bather you unduly until you remember that there is one person still on board the bus<ch.emdash/>Kate<ch.emdash/>and your heart nearly stops with shock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to open fire at the clansman before he gains entry to the bus, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you do not wish to open fire at the clansman, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no time to take aim: you must trust to your speed and gun skill to save you now!</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception and Shooting skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If your total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Confidently you push open the door, but the sight that greets your eyes as your light floods into the room horrifies you. Thousands of cockroaches cover every surface in the store room. They seethe and undulate like some grotesque, living carpet and, panicked by the sudden light that has intruded upon their world, they come rushing towards the door like a torrent of brown water.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Panicked by the sudden light that has intruded upon their world, the cockroaches come rushing towards the door like a torrent of brown water.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="625" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="625" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You turn to run but the tidal wave of insects engulfs your legs. Repulsively they crunch under your feet as you retreat into the corridor, hopelessly trying to beat them back. Then you slip and fall into the swarm, and before you can regain your feet, your face is covered by the loathsome tide and you feel yourself having to fight for air. You must stand up before the insect swarm suffocates you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cockroach Swarm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Resolve this combat in the normal way. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain are due to lack of air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you survive this encounter, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach Gila Bend you are greeted by a volley of shots that brings you skidding to a halt. Two men, both of whom you know to be Tucson colonists, emerge from the dust-choked darkness and come running towards you with machine pistols clenched in their hands. They stop in front of your roadster and are about to take aim at the windshield when one of them recognizes you.</p>
- <p>'What in God's name you doin' boy?' shouts Frazer, the older of the two lookouts. 'You could o' got y'self killed.'</p>
- <p>'Nobody told us you was out of the camp tonight,' says Avenal, his young sidekick. 'Where you been?'</p>
- <p>Taking the tub of Atropine tablets from your jacket pocket you reply impatiently, 'One of the DC1 colonists is sick, and if she don't get this medicine soon she'll die. Now please let me through.'</p>
- <p>Frazer lowers his gun and moves aside but Avenal remains where he is, his gun still levelled at your car.</p>
- <p>'Ain't she that clan-girl<ch.emdash/>Kate Norton? I heard she an' Mad Dog Michigan were an item before you wasted his brother?' he says.</p>
- <p>'You'd better watch that mouth o' yours, Avenal,' you retort, angered by his sneering comments. 'Now get outta my way. I'm in a hurry.'</p>
- <p>'They say them clan-girls are really hot 'n' wild. Now I bet you'd know all 'bout that wouldn't you Phoenix?' he leers.</p>
- <p>You try to restrain yourself but Avenal's ugly remarks are making your blood boil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to get out of your roadster and teach him some manners, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to put your foot down and drive straight at him, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you decide to suppress your temper and ask him once more to get out of your way, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow sends the clansman tumbling backwards out of the hollow. Then Kate looses off a burst of automatic fire from her machine pistol, deftly putting paid to his partner, who was attempting to claw his way back up the embankment.</p>
- <p>Two more clansmen attempt to imitate their actions, but they end up exactly the same way<ch.emdash/>lying in a tangled heap on the railroad tracks. For a minute there is a lull in the fighting, then you spot a new threat taking shape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dodge to avoid the gunfire and to present a difficult target for your adversaries, but in doing so you inadvertently run straight into a burst of automatic rifle fire. Sharp, stinging cores of pain explode in your chest and head, bringing you crashing to your knees.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here in Wellton, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the minutes tick by as you await the return of Macy and Langdon. Rickenbacker, an inveterate poker player, suggests a card game to pass the time, but you decline his offer. You are too anxious about the surrounding landscape to run the risk of being caught off-guard.</p>
- <p>It is almost an hour later when the Trans-sol reappears in the distance. Despite your fears, your two fellow scouts return safely to report that the pass is clear and the town of Eloy, fifteen miles beyond, is also deserted. They have managed to scout as far as the junction with Interstate 8, where they came upon a very different situation. At the intersection they saw a large group of Outlaws encamped in tents on either side of the freeway.</p>
- <p>'The freeway's clear of barricades,' says Macy, 'but the Outlaws are armed to the teeth. The convoy'll be cut to ribbons if it tries to run that gauntlet.'</p>
- <p>'Heck, what can we do?' you reply, uneasily. 'It's all mountain in these parts. The convoy'll never get across in one piece. They've just gotta use the freeway.'</p>
- <p>'I know the news ain't good, but we was chewin' over the situation on the way back,' says Langdon, wiping a hand across his grizzled beard, 'and we think we've got a solution.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are concentrating so hard on deciphering the code that will open the vault's lock that you do not notice a group of clansmen appear in the corridor outside the storage facility. Alerted by the open door, the lights, and the sound of you tampering with the lock, they are expecting to find an intruder when they come rushing in through the door, and they are not disappointed.</p>
- <p>Caught off-guard, you raise your hands in surrender, but when the leading clansmen see that you are not an Outlaw, and that you are armed, they panic and immediately open fire. Pain explodes in your chest ~is a dozen bullets knock you backwards off your feet. For a moment you see a splash of bright colours, then they dissolve into darkness.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your journey and your life end here in the medicine storage facility of the Casa Grande General Hospital.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With one tyre shot out, you soon find yourself fighting with the steering wheel to keep the roadster progressing in a straight line. You have only just regained control when another burst of gunfire punches a line of frosted holes across your windshield, and a sharp, burning pain lances through your left arm: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The sudden pain of your wound makes you slacken your grip on the wheel, and at once the vehicle slews wildly across the main street. Amid a screech of tyres and buckled metal, you glance off an auto wreck and come to an abrupt halt. Bullets whistle all around as you and Rickenbacker tumble out of your seats and seek cover behind the roadster's armour-plated side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The longer you listen to the humming, the more uneasy you feel about what might be causing it. The sound is uncannily like the sound of an insect swarm. Once, when you were seven years old and staying at summer camp in the Los Padres National Forest, you and some friends disturbed a nest full of hornets. You can still remember the pain of being stung by those angry insects vividly: it felt as though hot rivets were being driven into your flesh. To this day, that incident has left you wary of all flying insects and, rather than take the risk of disturbing another nest, you decide to leave the store and return to Rickenbacker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door you discover an old locker room that served as a changing area and equipment store for the officers who were once stationed here. A quick search uncovers a <typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ>, a Rifle, and eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">To leave the ranger station and continue, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon spins towards his chest and frantically Mad Dog raises his chainsaw in an attempt to bat it aside before it strikes him.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Field Craft skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If your total score is 11 or less, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect8">If your total score is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gain entry to the warehouse through an open side door. The lock that once secured this steel door looks like it has been smashed with a heavy implement, probably a sledgehammer, and consequently you do not hold high hopes of finding much of value inside. Once inside, your suspicions are confirmed. The warehouse has been thoroughly ransacked, and what little of worth that could not be taken away has been smashed or befouled.</p>
- <p>After forty minutes of painstakingly sifting through the debris, you discover a case of dried soya protein wedged beneath a stack of dishwashers. The machines have fallen off a storage platform on the first floor of the warehouse, and now they form a lopsided pyramid atop the case.</p>
- <p>You are carefully extracting the precious case of food from beneath the stack of shattered machines when suddenly you hear the sound of metal scraping against metal high above your head. You look up, and to your horror, you see the white flash of a washing machine as it comes tumbling towards your face.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>To your horror, you see the white flash of a washing machine as it comes tumbling towards your face.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="622" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="622" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add together your Stealth and Perception skill scores, and add their total to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If your total score is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If your total score is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land on the broken roadway with your arms outstretched and your hands scrabbling to find something to cling to. An exposed steel rod falls beneath your grasp and you clasp it with bloodied fingers, while your feet swing wildly in the void. Dust and debris are falling on your head and shoulders, grazing your scalp and causing you to cough violently: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Stoically you hang on to the bending steel rod while Rickenbacker and the others come to your aid. They throw the end of a rope, which lands close to your right shoulder, and urge you to take hold of it so that they can pull you to safety.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If your total score is 24 or less, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total score is 25 or more, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The firefight ends as rapidly as it began, and when the gun smoke clears, you see that not one of the Lions' raiding party has survived the encounter. However, the battle has been costly for both sides. When you call for a name check among your group, you discover that neither Cleaver nor Zay survived the fight, and that your fellow convoy scout, Macy, has been badly wounded in the wrist and thigh.</p>
- <p>Carefully you help Macy to climb the slope that leads back to the hollow, where Kate is waiting anxiously for you to return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking care that no one sees you leave Gila Bend, you drive east, retracing your way along Interstate 8 towards territory that you know is clan-held. Occasionally the storm lets up just long enough for you to make out the desolate landscape through which you are driving, but for the main part of an hour and a half you see nothing except a swirling wall of dust that obscures the road ahead.</p>
- <p>During your lonely drive you must take a Drink (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and eat a Meal (or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the three Crazies approach the pick-up, you notice that their emaciated bodies are decorated with spidery tattoos and scars left by self-inflicted cuts. Like inquisitive children they gather around the truck, pulling and prodding at its rusty trim.</p>
- <p>'What d' you guys want?' you say, firmly.</p>
- <p>'Hey, we jus' wanna be friendly. Be friendly, guy <ch.ellips/> be friendly,' drools one of the men, rolling his eyes.</p>
- <p>The woman laughs hysterically, then she sidles towards your door and smiles, revealing a row of broken teeth. 'Pretty <ch.ellips/> pretty <ch.ellips/>' she says, and reaches out to stroke your face. Rickenbacker is getting nervous, and out of the corner of your eye you see him fingering the grip of his machine pistol.</p>
- <p>'Let's get outta here, Cal. These creeps are makin' my skin crawl.'</p>
- <p>'OK,' you reply, and reach for the ignition. The woman watches your hand move, then she notices the Medi-kit pouch fixed to your belt and suddenly her mood changes.</p>
- <p>'This guy's got candy!' she squeals, and at once the two men come rushing towards your door. Like beggars they hold out their hands, and in their faces you see a desperate and hungry expression.</p>
- <p>'Give us some candy, guy,' they plead, pitifully.</p>
- <p>'Candy'll ease our pain, guy. Give us some candy.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to give these Crazies some of your Medi-kit units, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to restart the truck and get away from them as fast as you can, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expertly you bring the truck back under control and manage to avoid the damaged section of the road. Jaeger is impressed with the way you handled the situation and tells you so as you bring the truck safely to a halt beside the pump house. Then the two of you leave the cab and begin unloading the containers.</p>
- <p>'I had to draw the water up by hand yesterday,' says Jaeger, nodding towards the bore-hole, 'cause I couldn't get the pump to work. I reckon it's OK<ch.emdash/>jus' needs some gasolene that's all. Maybe if we could siphon some fuel from the truck we could get its engine running. It'd save us a whole lotta hard work.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you possess some Plastic Tube, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the gas grenade from your backpack and hold it close to your face in order to set its timer. Carefully you turn the plastic dial to the minimum time setting<ch.emdash/>four seconds<ch.emdash/>then you press the activator button and hurl the canister across the roof.</p>
- <p>The grenade bounces against the parapet close to where the clansmen are kneeling, but then it drops into a rainwater gully and rolls away from them. There is a flash, then a stream of cream-coloured gas billows up from the gully. Your heart sinks when you see that this cloud is being driven towards you by a faint night breeze.</p>
- <p>As it tumbles nearer, your throat tightens and your eyes begin to water. Then a wave of dizziness hits you and you reel backwards, your feet coming dangerously close to the edge of the fire-escape platform.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If your total score is now 24 or less, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If your total score is now 25 or more, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bullets slam into the ground close to where you lie, spattering your face with chips of sticky asphalt. Rickenbacker returns fire, buying you enough time to roll back behind the cover of the clansmen's car. You have only just clambered to your knees when the chattering of his machine pistol stops in mid-burst, and you hear him cursing as frantically he struggles to extract a dud cartridge that has jammed in the breach.</p>
- <p>Seconds later, the shadowy figure reappears in the doorway clutching a gun at hip level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to open fire at this target, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose not to open fire, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your gun and take careful aim at the fleeing clansman as he races up the dirt track that leads to the restaurant cabin.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score. If you are using a rifle, or a machine pistol, add 2 points to this total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect178-1-foot" idref="sect178-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire shatters the lock and the doors swing open to grant you access to the lobby beyond.<a id="sect178-1" idref="sect178-1-foot" class="footnote" /> A study of the hospital plan reveals the exact location of the medicine storage facility, details of which you commit to memory.</p>
- <p>'Third right <ch.ellips/> second left <ch.ellips/> second right <ch.ellips/>' you mumble as you set off in search of the vital Atropine you need to save Kate's life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>More than twenty colonists step forward and volunteer themselves in the defence of the convoy, even though they know that the action could cost them their lives. Among the volunteers, you see many familiar faces: Rickenbacker, Macy, Langdon, Avenal and the Tyler brothers are among them. Also, to your surprise, you see Kate. She is not completely recovered from her illness, but she is determined not to let that stop her. Suddenly you feel deeply ashamed, especially when you look at Kate. She returns your stare, and, although she does not speak, her look is enough to say it all. At once you realize that to continue to Pine Valley without her would be unbearable, so you swallow your fears and step forward to join her. As you stand by her side, you feel her warm hand touch yours and then squeeze it reassuringly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two Outlaws continue to ride towards the bridge, where they bring their machines to a halt. One of them, a thin-limbed punk with a shaved head, kneels down to examine something on the ground. Then he stands, takes up a pair of binoculars slung around his neck, and focuses them on the barn. The other biker, who is dressed in a tattered blue denim boiler-suit takes a long swig from a water canteen that is strapped to his chest. They exchange words, then together they unshoulder their machine pistols and scurry into the brush.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>One biker focuses a pair of binoculars on the barn while the other takes a long swig from a water canteen.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="544" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="544" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'I think they know we're in here,' whispers Rickenbacker. 'I don't like it.'</p>
- <p>'Keep a lookout here. I'll watch the doors,' you reply, and quietly move towards the front of the barn. Once there, you push the right-hand door slightly ajar to get a better view, but a suspicious shuffling noise makes you duck back; it is a reaction that saves your life. A sudden burst of automatic fire peppers the door, punching a dozen holes through the rotten timbers. In the next instant, the door is kicked open and in runs the shaven-headed clansman, his machine pistol poised to fire another burst. His eyes are slow to adjust to the gloomy interior, and he fails to see you standing behind the left-hand door.</p>
- <p>Instinctively you grab his gun and manage to wrestle it from his grasp, but he does not give it up easily. Tenaciously he fights back, knocking it from your hands as he launches his fight to the finish.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pee-Wee</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You are unable to evade combat and must fight the clansman to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman reaches through one of the shattered door panels and fumbles for the lever that will release the lock. It takes him a few seconds but he finds it and the door springs open like a concertina. Quickly he disappears from sight, then you hear Kate scream as she catches sight of him. Her scream is soon echoed by another, one that you recognize immediately as Aunt Betty-Ann's.</p>
- <p>At once you leap out from behind the garbage cart and run headlong towards the open door, oblivious to the bullets that are whistling past on all sides. As you reach the entrance, you almost throw yourself aboard the bus in your haste to prevent the clansman from harming the two women. As you regain your feet you see your aunt grappling with the thug in the centre aisle, her hands locked around the muzzle of his gun in a desperate attempt to prevent him from firing it. The gun goes off, stitching a circle of holes in the roof, and your aunt is knocked backwards as the barrel is torn from her grasp. Before he can bring his gun to bear on the two helpless women, you dive forward and drag the clansman crashing to the floor of the bus.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Fat Cat</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses that you sustain in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect182-1-foot" idref="sect182-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>An ounce of lead shot hits the clansman in the chest, killing him instantly.<a id="sect182-1" idref="sect182-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The sight of his gross body tumbling backwards down the slope sends a shock wave through his confederates, and at once their attack falters. Encouraged by their sudden change of heart, you watch as they retreat towards their trucks, which are parked in the centre of the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Macy and Langdon have taken up positions on either side of the freeway to watch for approaching clansmen. Macy welcomes your company, although you cannot help but feel that he thinks you are shirking your duty and should really be helping the others to clear a path through the pass.</p>
- <p>Together you watch the surrounding landscape while the hard work progresses. During your vigil, you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rickenbacker returns to the campsite, and, as soon as Icarus has been taken apart and packed away, the convoy sets off towards the mountains. Guided by Rickenbacker's aerial notes, the two of you lead the line of colony vehicles through the sun-bleached mountains. It is a hot, dry and dusty journey, during which you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>It is early evening when you emerge from the final gully and see the shimmering surface of Highway 78 in the distance. Blistered road signs point to Glamis and effortlessly you follow the dust-blown highway west towards this little town, which lies at the southern edge of the Chocolate Mountains.</p>
- <p>Cookie warns that you are entering territory controlled by a clan called the Chargers, who are based in the city of El Centro. Forewarned, the convoy halts on the highway, while you and Rickenbacker venture ahead to check that Glamis is safe to enter.</p>
- <p>On a ridge overlooking the town, you stop to appraise the town's safety. It looks empty and deserted, but the gathering darkness makes it difficult to be absolutely sure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess a <typ class="item">Combat Viewer</typ>, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Driven by fear and desperation, you attack the padlock and chains that are preventing your escape. Acrid fumes fill the room with a sickening stench that makes you dizzy and nauseous: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Finally your efforts are rewarded: the padlock breaks and the fire exit door bursts open. Amid billowing clouds of grey smoke, you stagger out on to a fire escape landing and unsteadily descend a rusty iron staircase to a parking lot below. As clean air fills your lungs your strength returns, enabling you to flee the area before a massive explosion destroys the warehouse completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect186-1-foot" idref="sect186-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although your gunfire misses the clansman, it penetrates the side of the pick-up truck and tears a hole in a metal container full of industrial blasting powder, which is standing in the back.<a id="sect186-1" idref="sect186-1-foot" class="footnote" /> A spark, created when the container is holed, ignites the powder with devastating effect. There is a jarring boom, then the truck erupts into a blazing fireball of orange and scarlet flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the tyre gone, you find yourself fighting with the steering wheel to keep the roadster progressing in a straight line. But you cannot correct the skid in time and the vehicle slews wildly across the main street. With a tremendous crash, it smashes into the front of a hardware store, hurling you and Rickenbacker out of your seats and into a tangle of shattered timbers and splintered glass.</p>
- <p>Stunned and bleeding, you drag yourself to your feet and stumble towards your partner's body. You try to reach out to him but your arms, both broken at the elbows, refuse to obey your commands. Then, in the midst of the carnage, you hear a gruff voice cursing and you turn to face it. A clansman stands silhouetted in the twilit street, his features obscured by shadows. There is a pinpoint flash from his hand: it is the last thing you see before you are enveloped by a darkness that is timeless and total.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your adventure and your life ends here in Wellton.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Glancing at the ground ahead, you notice that it is covered with a fine layer of dust. Your own feet leave noticeable tracks in this dust, yet there are no footprints across the playground or leading to the hut.</p>
- <p>Certain that he is not hiding there, you turn to look elsewhere for clues to his whereabouts. Then, as you move away from the playground, a burst of automatic gunfire rings out from the other side of the site.</p>
- <p>'Rickenbacker's found him,' you whisper to yourself, and run back towards the parking lot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stamp your foot to the floor and the car lurches forward. Frozen with shock, the clansmen remain where they stand in the middle of the street. You grit your teeth and wait for the impact. There is a violent jolt as they are hit by the roadster's armoured front fender, and you glimpse their bodies tumbling over the hood and into the darkness behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53"><link-text>Turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light illuminates the dingy corridors and enables you to follow the signs with ease. At length you reach the medicine storage facility and your hopes of finding some Atropine and saving Kate's life begin to rise.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add to it your Perception skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If the combined total is 26 or less, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If the combined total is 27 or more, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect191-1-foot" idref="sect191-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire hits the clansman squarely in the chest, sending him crashing backwards down the embankment.<a id="sect191-1" idref="sect191-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Kate looses off a burst of automatic fire from her machine pistol, deftly putting paid to his partner.</p>
- <p>Two more clansmen attempt to copy their actions, but end up exactly the same way<ch.emdash/>lying in a tangled heap on the railroad tracks. For a minute there is a lull in the fighting, then you spot a new threat taking shape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect192-1-foot" idref="sect192-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman groans as your snap shot hits him between the shoulder blades.<a id="sect192-1" idref="sect192-1-foot" class="footnote" /> For a moment he shudders, then he arches his back and falls from the doorway to land in a heap at the bottom of the steps.</p>
- <p>At once you leap out from behind the garbage cart and run to the bus to check that Kate is all right. Inside you discover both her and your Aunt Betty-Ann sheltering behind the rear seats. They are shaken but appear otherwise unharmed.</p>
- <p>You have only just helped them to their feet when Rickenbacker appears at the doorway. 'C'mon Cal, we've gotta get back to the roadster. Macy reports more Outlaws at the edge of town. We've got to lead the convoy outta here.'</p>
- <p>Kate and Aunt Betty-Ann say they are all right, and urge you to do as your partner says. The colonists are beginning to return to their vehicles and, as you follow Rickenbacker across the plaza towards your roadster, it worries you to note that several of them are nursing wounds.</p>
- <p>Once you are back behind the wheel, you signal to Cutter and the others to follow your lead and then power your car out of Sentinel, along Interstate 8.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9"><link-text>Turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect193-1-foot" idref="sect193-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire your rifle and see the clansman lifted off his feet by the shock of being struck by a high-velocity bullet at such short range.<a id="sect193-1" idref="sect193-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Yet no sooner has his body hit the ground than one of his comrades leaps over him and dives straight at you with his hands outstretched. Before you can work another round into the breach and fire again, he grapples the rifle from your hands, then lunges forwards to fasten his steely fingers around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dumper</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the suddenness of the attack, you cannot make use of a close combat weapon until the second round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect194-1-foot" idref="sect194-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire causes the driver to slam on the brakes and send his car into a violent skid.<a id="sect194-1" idref="sect194-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His eyes and mouth open wide with horror as desperately he fights to regain control, but already it is too late. The vehicle begins to spin and its tyres to screech like banshees as it comes whirling towards your roadster.</p>
- <p>'Look out!' screams Rickenbacker, as he dives to avoid the oncoming car. Collision is but seconds away as frantically you try to scramble out of its path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your roadster to a halt at the front of the convoy and Rickenbacker helps you replenish the fuel tank with gasolene drawn from the DC1 tanker. Once the refuelling is complete, the two of you carry out a routine inspection while the other convoy vehicles are being refuelled for the journey ahead. After last night's excursion, you are keen to make sure that your vehicle is still roadworthy.</p>
- <p>Everything seems to be in good order until Rickenbacker notices wet patches of fluid pooled on the ground on the inside of the front wheels. Closer inspection reveals it to be brake fluid, which is seeping from severed brake lines. The damage is not accidental: the brake lines have been snipped with wire cutters. Someone has attempted deliberately to sabotage your vehicle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to report this damage to Mike Gorgas, the convoy leader, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you decide to repair the damage and say nothing more about it, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gunfire grows louder as you climb cautiously towards the parapet. Once you are in position, you peep over the edge to see three clansmen on the far side. Two are firing at the street below, and the third is sitting on the ground with his back to the parapet. They all appear to be oblivious of your presence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you possess a <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you possess a <typ class="item">Tear Gas Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you have none of these items, or do not wish to make use of them, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grenade explodes with a deafening roar, and you are lifted off the ground and hurled bodily through the air by the force of the blast. Sharp, stinging cores of pain lance through your limbs and body, and fearfully you clasp your hands to your midriff as you come crashing to the ground. Warm blood oozes between your fingers, but although you are incapable of moving, you no longer feel pain. A great stillness descends on you as you prepare to meet your maker.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life come to an end here at Picacho, California.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before it reaches the administration offices, the corridor passes through a reception lobby. A pair of heavy doors, inset with circular windows, separates the corridor from this lobby. Peering through the windows, you can see a detailed floor plan of the hospital hanging behind the reception counter. This must show where the medicine storage facility is located but, to your frustration, you cannot reach it: both the doors are locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you wish to try to barge open the doors to gain access to the lobby, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to try to pick the lock that secures the doors, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you choose to shoot open the lock, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess a <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it to blow open the doors, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect199-1-foot" idref="sect199-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your rifle shot hits the clansman in the chest and passes through his heart, killing him instantly.<a id="sect199-1" idref="sect199-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The sight of his body tumbling backwards down the slope sends a shock wave through his confederates, and at once their attack falters. Encouraged by their sudden change of heart, you watch as they retreat towards their trucks, which are parked in the centre of the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you are waiting for the convoy to arrive, you busy yourselves by putting out the flames that are feeding on the wreckage of the clan truck: the oily smoke could attract unwanted attention. Shortly after the fire has been extinguished, the convoy arrives and several of the colonists help with the burial of the clansmen and the removal of the smouldering wreckage to somewhere less exposed. Everyone is aware of the need for increased vigilance after your encounter with the Puma bridge patrol. Sooner or later the Yuma clan base will notice their disappearance and send more scouts to investigate.</p>
- <p>Once the clean-up is complete, Cookie is transferred to the Landcruiser and you take delivery of your roadster from Rex Tyler, who has driven it the short distance from Ligurta. Then, with your partner, Rickenbacker, you take up your familiar position at the front of the convoy and head off along the dirt road. Soon you reach the firmer surface of Highway 95 and follow it north, across a flat and featureless desert that was once the Yuma Proving Ground. A sign appears in the distance, just a dot on the horizon at first, but gradually growing larger until you can make out the directions painted on its sun-blistered surface:</p>
- <signpost>LAGUNA <ch.amp/> IMPERIAL RESERVOIRS 7 MILES</signpost>
- <p>You follow the sign, taking the smaller road that branches away to the west. The name 'Laguna' stirs memories of your childhood before 'The Day', for it was at Laguna Beach, California, that you were born and raised. You are still thinking about your old home, wondering if it is still the same, when the reservoir and dam appear in the distance. The two features make an impressive sight, enhanced by the rugged backdrop of the Cargo Muchacho Mountains and the knowledge that the land on the other side of the reservoir is California state territory.</p>
- <p>You bring the convoy to a halt at a point overlooking the wide service road that runs across the top of the dam. Cutter goes forward to check its cracked surface and after walking its entire length, returns to declare that it is passable.</p>
- <p>You must now take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slam on the brakes and spin the driving wheel hard over to the left to bring your roadster around in a screeching 180-degree turn. Your quick thinking and skilled driving save you from crashing into the wall of rock, but they do not screen you from the rain of boulders that are smashing on to the highway. One of these rocks hits the top of the roadster's trunk and explodes, sending slivers of stone in all directions. A stone splinter hits you and opens a deep cut across the back of your scalp: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the stinging pain of your wound, you put your foot down and speed away from the rockfall before you are hit again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still trembling with the shock of your encounter, you step over the dead coyote and peer into the room, only to discover that it is filled with dusty orthopaedic apparatus. This is not the medicine storage facility.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fascinated by the sound, but wary of what you may find beyond the door, you draw the bolt carefully and push open the door just a few inches. What was once a gentle humming becomes a loud buzzing drone as a swarm of angry hornets comes pouring out of the darkened store room.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The gentle humming becomes a loud buzzing drone as a swarm of angry hornets comes pouring out of the darkened store room.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="620" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="620" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Quickly you snatch up a piece of wood lying on the floor and use it to bat away the swirling cloud of yellow-banded insects, as desperately you retreat towards the front door.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hornet swarm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you survive this encounter, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On your return to Aztec, you find that Gutter's crew of mechanics have repaired the damaged vehicles and that the convoy is ready to leave. The appearance of a new face causes a stir, especially when the news breaks that Yuma is a clan base. Jaeger is questioned at length and reveals one piece of information that is of special interest to Pop Ewell. He knows the exact radio frequency used by the Californians at their Pine Valley outpost. Pop tries to make contact with them, but the signal is too weak to make any sense of their reply.</p>
- <p>As you are handing over the food that was found during your scouting mission, Cutter voices the colony's fears about what has become your most pressing problem<ch.emdash/>water. In the fierce, daytime heat, there are many, especially the children and the wounded, who have already begun to suffer severe dehydration. During your absence, a small group led by Avenal was sent to the Gila River to try to fill the spare water containers. However, they found what little there remained of the river water was so polluted that not even a ten-fold dosage of purification tablets could neutralize all the toxins. One Tucson colonist, crazy with thirst, drank some and died an agonized death.</p>
- <p>Cutter and the other convoy leaders are gravely worried. Morale within the colony is at an all-time low, and unless a new water supply is found quickly, discipline is likely to collapse with disastrous consequences. It comes, therefore, as a welcome surprise when Jaeger provides, quite off-handedly, a solution to the problem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect205-1-foot" idref="sect205-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire knocks one of the group to the ground, but an empty shell case has become jammed in the breach of your gun, preventing you from firing a second burst.<a id="sect205-1" idref="sect205-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Shouldering your gun, you draw a close combat weapon and jump on to the roof. As you move swiftly towards the group, the clansman, who is sitting with his back to the parapet, sees you approaching. A wave of fear knots your stomach as you wait expectantly for him to shout out in alarm. However, to your surprise, he does nothing to alert his companions.</p>
- <p>Instinct prompts you to act quickly in case he has a change of heart. You rush forward and lunge at the throat of the remaining rifleman. He dodges your blow, but in doing so drops his rifle over the edge of the parapet. Before he has a chance to draw a knife, you press home your advantage and attack again.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cape Cod</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses that you sustain during the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press the switches and the fluorescent lights flash and flicker as electricity surges through them for the first time in over eight years. Only one of the tubes stays lit, but its ghostly light is sufficient for you to see the radiographic equipment that fills the room. Much of it you do not recognize, but there are two items that could be of some practical use:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Geiger Counter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Lead-lined Apron</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep either (or both) of these items, remember to record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">To leave the X-ray department and continue, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When eventually you get back to the hollow overlooking the freeway, you find that your fellow defenders are coming under increasingly heavy fire. Kate is uninjured, but she is almost out of ammunition.</p>
- <p>Through the fire and smoke, you glimpse Mad Dog Michigan directing his men. A dozen of his scouts are busy working on his speedster, roping and wedging a section of crash barrier to the front of the battered vehicle. The barricade of fire is beginning to wane, and at once your realize Mad Dog's intention: he is going to try to ram his way through the line of burning trucks!</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you possess a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you do not possess this weapon, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The harsh hammering of the clansman's machine pistol fills your ears and you feel something sharp punch you repeatedly in the stomach. Fearfully clasping a hand to your midriff, you feel warm blood oozing between your fingers, and yet you feel no pain. Aware that you have been shot, and that the shock of your wound is numbing your senses, you turn and attempt to run from this nightmare.</p>
- <p>You have taken only one step when a brief wave of pain drags you to your knees. You fall forwards and hit the ground face-first, but still you feel nothing, save the creeping numbness that eventually robs you of the will to go on breathing.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Picacho.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your G-12 up to shoulder height and track your running target along the barrel. The moment he crosses your sights, you squeeze off a burst of fire aimed at waist level. Empty shell cases stream out of the breach and, for a brief moment, you lose sight of your target as the muzzle of your machine pistol climbs with the recoil.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The remaining clansman, whom you first saw seated next to the parapet, cowers on the ground like a frightened child. His hands are tied behind his back and, as you bend to grab hold of his arms and pull him to his feet, he pleads for his life. 'Don't kill me, please don't kill me,' he cries. 'I'll help you, if you'll just let me live.</p>
- <p>You shout an all clear to Rickenbacker in the street below, and as you turn your face away, you see the headlights of the convoy vehicles as they enter the town.</p>
- <p>Without untying his hands, you escort the clansman down slowly from the roof and retrace your steps along the alley to the main street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the tube, you siphon a couple of gallons from the truck and transfer it to a fuel tank inside the pump house. Then, using the truck's battery, you manage to get the engine started. Anxiously the two of you fix your eyes on the cracked glass face of its water gauge, as the noisy old pump arm creaks into action. At first nothing happens, then, as the air that is trapped in the bore is forced out and the pressure rises, the needle creeps slowly around the face of the dial.</p>
- <p>Outside, Jaeger locates and opens the valve of the outlet pipe, which looks like a huge faucet, and out pours a coughing stream of crystal-clear water. With a triumphant yell, the two of you rush to the pipe and take turns lying on the ground beneath it until you are completely soaked to the skin. The water is cool and refreshingly pure<ch.emdash/>restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>In less than twenty minutes you have drawn the sixty gallons you require and loaded the heavy containers on to the back of the pick-up. (If you wish, you may take this opportunity to refill your water canteen.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect243"><link-text>Turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the truck unseen and place your grenade beneath the dashboard, directly below the radio transceiver unit. Having already set the timer to one minute, you pull the pin and make your way swiftly to the ditch where Rickenbacker has taken cover. The grenade explodes with a violent roar, spewing flame and twisted metal in all directions. At once the clansmen leap to their feet, shouting hysterically as they come running towards the blazing wreckage that was once their means of transport. You grit your teeth and get ready to open fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes a little over an hour to clear a path through the landslide. After an inspection, Cutter pronounces that the pass is once again passable, and he urges everyone to hurry back to their vehicles and get ready to press on without delay.</p>
- <p>You lead the procession of vehicles successfully across the cleared ground and through the pass beyond. Then, as you emerge on the far side of the pass, you see Cutter signalling to you to stop. The convoy halts for a few minutes to allow him to go back and plant some grenades beneath one of the remaining outcrops. He sets the timers, allowing himself enough time to return to the convoy.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait for the grenades to detonate. When they explode, they bring down a mass of rock that seals off the pass behind the convoy.</p>
- <p>'That should delay the Outlaws for a while,' he says, and almost cheerfully returns to take his place behind the wheel of DC1's school bus.</p>
- <p>It is mid-afternoon by the time you lead the convoy into the ruins of Sentinel. The town is deserted, and you are about to drive through without stopping when you see something in your rear-view mirror that makes you slam on the brakes. Fire is billowing out of the Landcruiser's luggage store, which is situated directly beneath the floor of the passenger compartment and adjacent to the fuel tanks. The driver and the passengers seem unaware of the danger they are in<ch.emdash/>until you bring the convoy to a halt and run back to warn them.</p>
- <p>'Fire!' you shout, as you race along the line of vehicles towards the stricken bus. Suddenly the colonists aboard the Landcruiser realize what is wrong and frantically they leap out of the burning vehicle, through windows and doors, to avoid the rising flames.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you possess a <typ class="item">Fire Extinguisher</typ>, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The staccato rattle of the clansman's machine pistol fills your ears as you dive and roll for cover behind the lip of the hollow.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add to this number your Stealth skill score, and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If your total score is 22 or less, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If your total score is 23 or more, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the crumpled bodies, you hear the growl of a powerful car engine and turn to see the grey Trans-sol approaching from the freeway exit. You wave to show Macy and Langdon that you are both OK, and they return a thumbs-up as they halt outside the bank.</p>
- <p>'These jokers were clan members, but how do we know they're Shiloh's men?' you ask, pointing at the lifeless bodies.</p>
- <p>'They're Outlaws all right,' says Macy, motioning to the clansmen's car. 'That skull-'n'-crossbones scrawled on the driver's door is their mark, sure 'nough.'</p>
- <p>While the others dispose of the bodies, you take the opportunity to search the drugstore. You are curious to know what it was that the clansmen were looking for, and it does not take long to find out. A large cardboard container lies on its side near the door, dropped there no doubt when you and Rickenbacker made your unexpected appearance. Spilled out across the floor are bottles of pain killers and stimulants, and syringes that the clansmen have looted from the drugstore's safe.</p>
- <p>You sift through the contents and quickly scan the store's shelves for useful items. Your search uncovers enough medical supplies for four Medi-kit units. When you return to the others, they offer you the remainder of the items that were found on the clansmen's bodies:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Shotgun</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Two rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">To continue, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once the convoy has left the Crazies far behind, it builds up a steady speed of forty miles per hour and maintains this as it approaches the outskirts of El Centro. Rickenbacker has punched out the shattered remains of your truck's windshield, and a rush of cooling air fills the cab. Although this feels good, the thick dust that is being churned up by the wheels of the vehicles in front of you soon causes you problems.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a <typ class="item">Leather Face Mask</typ>, you must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to dust inhalation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Avenal turns and fires a snap shot at Barlow's fleeing form. Unfortunately, there is only one bullet left in his pistol and it misses by a wide mark. You watch as the traitor reaches the waiting clan biker, climbs nimbly astride the pillion and is whisked away along a side street bordering the plaza.</p>
- <p>As the traitor and his confederate disappear, Rickenbacker and Cutter come running across the plaza and take cover with you and Avenal behind the garbage cart. Quickly you tell them that Barlow has escaped and that you are now absolutely convinced that he was guilty. Understandably, this remark provokes a less than charitable reaction from Avenal.</p>
- <p>'You're right,' says Cutter. 'He must have been a clan infiltrator. I'd hazard a guess that this whole attack was staged t' get him out o' here.'</p>
- <p>From behind the metal lip of the garbage cart you survey the battle that is raging around the plaza. Most of the colonists have now armed themselves and taken cover, and they are putting up a worthy defence of the vehicles. The few clansmen you do see are either dead or attempting to escape from the town now that they have achieved their objective. All of them, that is, apart from one. He is a blond-haired thug, dressed in a studded leather vest and striped pants, who is busy hammering at the glass door panels of the DC1 school bus with the stock of his machine pistol. The sight of him senselessly attacking the door of the empty bus does not bother you unduly until you remember that there is one person still on board the bus<ch.emdash/>Kate<ch.emdash/>and your heart nearly stops with shock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to open fire at the clansman before he gains entry to the bus, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you do not wish to open fire at the clansman, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you reach a position that offers a clear view of the bridge, you signal to the others and wait for them to approach. Cookie and Rickenbacker play out their parts to perfection, and everything goes as planned until one of the six clansmen breaks away from the main group and runs back across the bridge. He is heading for the truck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you possess a missile weapon and sufficient ammunition for one round of fire, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Above the engine noise you hear the loud, metallic whine of a ricochet as one of the clansman's bullets glances off the reinforced plate that protects your door. He continues firing, emptying his pistol at your roadster as you speed away, but you are soon swallowed up by the storm and none of his other bullets finds its mark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53"><link-text>Turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Few words are exchanged as Rickenbacker, Kate, yourself and six Tucson men climb into your pick-up truck and follow behind the gas tanker as it leaves the Desert View Tower. Three other vehicles follow you in line, each with its compliment of stern-faced defenders pledged to holding off Mad Dog Michigan for as long as it takes the convoy to reach Pine Valley. You sense that, like you, the others are trying hard not to think about the outcome of losing the impending battle, for deep down they know that, at best, only a few of you can expect to survive.</p>
- <p>Ten uncomfortable minutes pass before Rickenbacker's transceiver crackles into life. It is Cutter calling all vehicles: 'Bridge ahead. Get ready to deploy your vehicles and take cover. Follow my lead. Out.'</p>
- <p>Then you see the parapets of the railroad bridge in the distance, and a sick feeling rises in your stomach. The tanker starts to brake, then it turns towards the gap in the central crash barriers where Cutter brings it shuddering to a halt. You copy his manoeuvre, as do the vehicles following, and together you park in a line, nose to tail, across all ten lanes of Interstate 8.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'The convoy'll be here in less than five minutes,' says Rickenbacker, as he cocks his machine pistol. 'Let's see what we can do to make their welcome a little more friendly, shall we?'</p>
- <p>With that he rises from his knees and empties an entire magazine at the clansmen's position. While he is firing, you chance a glance over the wing of the roadster and see an alley directly opposite. It runs beside the cinema on which the clansmen are positioned. A black perspex awning covers most of its length, hiding it from view from anyone positioned on the surrounding rooftops.</p>
- <p>When you look back, Rickenbacker is busy reloading. You tap his arm and point to the alley, saying, 'I'm goin' t' try an' get around the back. Cover me.</p>
- <p>He grunts approvingly. The moment he reopens fire, you break cover and sprint towards the alley as fast as your legs and your lungs will allow. You are ten yards from its welcoming darkness when bullets start to thud into the ground around your feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If your total score is 6-9, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect222-1-foot" idref="sect222-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shot misses the running clansman, but it passes near enough to frighten him into increasing his pace.<a id="sect222-1" idref="sect222-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Rickenbacker, having now reloaded a fresh magazine, gets up and begins to weave his way through the barbecue ranges towards the fleeing enemy.</p>
- <p>'You too, Cal,' he shouts, and you obey, your gun held ready as you follow in his tracks.</p>
- <p>The clansman reaches the restaurant cabin as you and Rickenbacker emerge on the far side of the barbecue area. A burst of gunfire from the cabin doorway makes you dive for cover, then, moments later, you see something round and black fly from the doorway and land on the beaten earth path just a few yards away to your right.</p>
- <p>'Grenade!' shouts Rickenbacker, and covers his head with his hands.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If the number you have picked is even (2,4,6,8,0), <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If the number you have picked is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At length you dismiss the reflection as merely a trick of the light, and continue with your drive through the pass. But you have only travelled a few hundred yards when a rumbling noise, like the sound of distant thunder, draws your eyes away to the right. In horror you look up to see great cracks appearing in the outcrop. Suddenly a whole section gives way and hundreds of tons of rock come tumbling down the mountainside. You are driving into the path of a massive landslide.</p>
- <p>Large boulders come smashing down on to the highway as desperately you struggle to turn your roadster around and escape before you are crushed to death.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If your total is 8-10, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If your total is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Apprehensively you descend towards the crumbling roadway and, as you approach the centre of the dam, you try to steer towards the widest section of the remaining concrete surface. Everything is going well until your front wheels jam in a widening rut and the roadster comes to a sudden stop. You pump the gas pedal and the floor shudders as the rear wheels spin uselessly on the powdery surface. Then the car lurches to the left, as the section on which you are caught begins to break away from the rest of the dam and slip towards the edge.</p>
- <p>'Jump for it, Cal!' screams Rickenbacker. Instinctively you know that it is too late to save your roadster, but not too late to save your life. As the left side of the car tilts towards the river far below, you clamber out of your seat and make a desperate leap for the roadway.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add it to your Stealth skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If all three scores, when added together, total 25 or less, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If your total score is 26-29, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If your total score is 30 or more, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Watched by the surrounding circle of colonists, you approach the table and take a seat among your six fellow judges. A hush descends on the plaza as Pop Ewell calls for Rex Tyler to be brought forward to answer to the charge of murder. Flanked by two burly Tucson men, Rex enters the square, his head bowed and his hands tied before him. They escort him to a place in front of the table, where they untie his hands. Both men are armed with pistols, and they make it perfectly clear to Rex that they are prepared to use them if he is foolish enough to try to escape.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Flanked by two burly Tucson men, Rex Tyler enters the square, his head bowed and his hands tied before him.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="621" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="621" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Rex is questioned at length by all the judges, including yourself, and earnestly pleads his innocence. He says that his knife, the weapon used to kill Mike Gorgas, went missing the previous evening. Your fellow judges phrase their questions cleverly in the hope of tripping Rex and finding a hole in his story, but steadfastly he holds to his statement that his knife went missing and that he happened upon Gorgas' body by chance. When your turn to question him comes around for the final time, you decide to try a different tack. You ask him if he saw anyone in the immediate vicinity of the truck prior to discovering Mike Gorgas' body. After much thought he says that he remembers seeing two men, both Tucson colonists. He does not know them by name, but when asked to pick them out, he scans the surrounding faces and points to John Barlow and Paul Avenal.</p>
- <p>After consulting with your fellow judges, they agree to let you question these two men, who are both made to approach the table. You ask each of them in turn if he killed Mike Gorgas. Both strenuously deny having had anything to do with Gorgas' murder. Avenal is so outraged by the proceedings that he accuses you of murdering Gorgas, and charges you with attempting to frame him. It is not until Cutter points out that you and Rickenbacker were scouting the pass at the time of Gorgas' murder that he ceases his ranting and quietly fumes.</p>
- <p>Your second request takes both men by surprise. You ask them to step forward and empty the contents of their pockets and packs on to the judges' table. After a moment's hesitation, the two men comply.</p>
- <p>Avenal's pockets consist of the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Knife</li>
- <li>Cigarette Lighter</li>
- <li>Tin containing three cigarettes</li>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Screwdriver</li>
- <li>Solar Torch</li>
- <li>Map of Arizona</li>
- <li>Bottle of pain killers</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Barlow's pockets comprise the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Tool Kit</li>
- <li>Radio Transmitter</li>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Fifteen rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Detonator Cap</li>
- <li>Paper pack containing six cigarettes</li>
- <li>Wire Cutters</li>
- <li>Signal Flare</li>
- <li>Reel of cloth tape</li>
- </ul>
- <p>After you have examined the items, the two men are allowed to retrieve them while you and the other judges pause to consider your verdict.</p>
- <p>After a short deliberation, your fellow judges pronounce their judgements. Two find Paul Avenal guilty of the murder; two find John Barlow guilty; and two find Rex Tyler guilty as charged. As only a majority of one vote is required, the deciding vote rests with you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you decide that Avenal is guilty, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you decide that Barlow is guilty, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you decide that Rex Tyler is guilty, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The loose earth and the steepness of the slope is making it difficult for the clansman to maintain his balance. Before he can steady himself well enough to take an aimed shot, you raise your G-12 and squeeze off a burst of fire aimed at his chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total score 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total score is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the course of the Colorado River, first north, and then west towards Picacho. Throughout your drive you are treated to a spectacular view of the mighty river and the Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, once the home of eagles and deer, and great flocks of Canada geese, ducks and swans.</p>
- <p>Within the hour, you reach the tiny settlement of Picacho. Rickenbacker radios the news to the convoy and tells them to halt while you go ahead to check that it is safe to enter. Picacho appears to be empty, but as you make your approach, a clansman appears from one of the log cabins and starts waving at you. He is smiling and, because of the pick-up you are driving, you assume he must think you are fellow clansmen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to stop the truck, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to continue driving towards the settlement, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Covering your face against the stinging wind, you leave your roadster and run towards the ranger station's shattered main door. Inside the lobby, bathed in the light from your vehicle's headlamps, you find a laminated town map fixed to the wall. You grab a pen from the counter and hurriedly note directions to the hospital on the back of your left hand.</p>
- <p>As you turn to leave you notice an open door off to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you wish to search the room beyond the door, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you decide to ignore it and return directly to your roadster, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pain of your wounds is overwhelming. It feels as if three red-hot knives have been driven into your flesh and left there. Kate rushes to your side and cradles you in her arms, tears welling in her eyes. She is saying something, but the noise of the battle and the loud pounding of your heartbeat drown out her words.</p>
- <p>Carefully, using dressings from her own Medi-kit, she patches up your wounds as best she can (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Gritting your teeth against the pain, you sit up in time to see Rickenbacker putting paid to your would-be killer. His fire hits the clansman in the chest, killing him instantly. The sight of his body tumbling backwards down the slope sends a shock wave through his confederates, and at once their attack falters. Encouraged by their sudden change of heart, you watch as they fall back towards their trucks, which are parked in a line at the centre of the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your G-12 to your shoulder and, as you look along the barrel, you see the clansman pulling himself up the steps that lead into the bus. Without taking a fixed aim you squeeze off a short burst at the doorway, hoping to catch him before he disappears from sight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it you Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Let me use Icarus,' says Rickenbacker. 'Conditions are ideal, and if there's a way to be found through those mountains I'll find it in a fraction of the time it'll take us to scout by foot or car.'</p>
- <p>The colony agrees to his suggestion and Icarus, his motorized hang glider, which until now has remained under wraps aboard the Tyler's tow truck, is unloaded, assembled and refuelled. While Cutter checks the engine, Rickenbacker dons his flying suit, complete with goggles, leather flying helmet and white silk scarf. Then, with a confident wave to the assembled colonists, he climbs into the fragile machine and takes to the air.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>While Cutter checks the engine, Rickenbacker dons his flying suit, complete with goggles, leather flying helmet and white silk scarf.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="631" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="631" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Using his transceiver he maintains radio contact with Pop Ewell throughout his flight. After only forty minutes in the air, he is able to map a route through the tortuous network of ridges and gullies that is wide enough and safe enough to carry the convoy across the mountains to Highway 78.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184"><link-text>Turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dust storm is still raging fiercely as you climb back into the roadster and set off on the return journey to Gila Bend. It is a difficult and frustrating drive. You cannot shake the fear that Kate will have lapsed into a coma before you return with the Atropine, yet you dare not increase your speed for fear of crashing off the road. The strain takes its toll<ch.emdash/>lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>During your return drive you must take a Drink or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect233-1-foot" idref="sect233-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire wounds the clansman fatally.<a id="sect233-1" idref="sect233-1-foot" class="footnote" /> With his last ounce of strength, he staggers to the pick-up truck and falls across the rear tailgate. There, standing in the back, is a keg filled with blasting powder. The clansman believes you are a rival clan who are out to steal this explosive, and rather than allow it to fall into your hands, he pulls the self-igniting fuse that is attached to its cap. Less than a minute later, the fuse runs out and the powder explodes, with devastating effect. There is a shuddering boom, then the truck erupts into a blazing fireball of orange and scarlet flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cannot see your own weapon, but Kate's machine pistol is lying close by. You snatch it up and fire at Mad Dog, but nothing happens. The gun is empty.</p>
- <p>Mad Dog frees his saw and launches a wild, sweeping slice at your head. You avoid instant decapitation by rolling across the debris-strewn floor, but as you rise to your feet, a wave of dizziness robs you momentarily of your sight, and you stumble backwards against the wall. Then your vision clears, and, as Mad Dog approaches, you duck below his wild sweeps and thrust the' muzzle of your empty machine pistol at his chest. You draw first blood. The clan leader squeals like a stuck pig and pulls away, but quickly he recovers and attacks you like a man possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mad Dog Michigan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>During the combat, you may use the empty machine pistol as a Club (2).</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is an hour after dawn when the fortified gates of the Davis-Monthan base are unlocked and dragged open. With a reassuring smile, you bid farewell to Kate, then accelerate the roadster out of the base along the pot-holed asphalt of a service road that leads to Interstate 10. Beside you sits Gary Rickenbacker, an ex-flying circus stunt pilot from Midland, Texas. He is one of the Big Spring colonists who joined up with DC1 when your convoy reached that town, the first of the few civilized strongholds you have visited on your journey west. In your driving mirror you see Macy and Langdon, both from Tucson. They are the other half of your scouting party. They drive a supercharged Trans-sol that is sheathed in grey armour-plate, a custom modification that has saved their skins on more than one occasion.</p>
- <p>You hit the freeway doing sixty-five and follow the blistered road signs pointing north to Casa Grande. Thirty minutes later you pass through the fire-blackened ruins of Rillito and Marana, two towns the Outlaws torched last month to show the Tucson colony what Shiloh had in store for them.</p>
- <p>Ten miles slip by before you reach the next town Red Rock. There you see something unusual, which makes you ease your foot off the gas and bring your roadster gliding gently to a halt. Macy and Langdon pull up behind you, leap out of their car and run forward to find out what is wrong.</p>
- <p>'Check out the wreck over there on the road,' you say, pointing to a car parked outside a derelict drugstore.</p>
- <p>'What d'you think?'</p>
- <p>'That sure weren't there the last time I drove through this place,' answers Macy, squinting at the distant vehicle. 'An' that was jus' the day before yesterday.'</p>
- <p>'If there's Outlaws in that town, we're gonna have to flush 'em out. If they get word back to Shiloh about the convoy, we'll have his entire gang come down on us like a ton o' bricks,' says Langdon, as he unbuckles the holster-flap covering his pistol.</p>
- <p>You agree with him and propose a plan. Two of you will enter the town and search the buildings in the area near where the car is parked. They will flush out any Outlaws that may be hiding there. Meanwhile, the other two will skirt around the town and wait on the far side at the freeway exit. If the Outlaws attempt a getaway, they will prevent their escape.</p>
- <p>The others agree to your plan and quickly get ready to enter the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to enter the town and search the buildings, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you choose to skirt around the town and take up a position on the freeway exit, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skilful deduction of the clansman's hiding place has bought you an advantage in this life-or-death confrontation. Before your adversary can fix you in his sights, you open fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the engine still running, you slip the transmission into neutral and leap out of your roadster. Avenal's face drops when he sees you approach. He steps back, hesitates, then raises his machine pistol. At once, Frazer steps between you.</p>
- <p>'Quit it you two <ch.ellips/> right now!' he growls, and slaps Avenal's gun down. 'Back off,' he barks at his blond sidekick. Then he turns to you and says: 'As for you, Phoenix, I oughta punch you out right here an' now. Goin' off into the night without tellin' anyone could o' got you killed. Now, get back in your car and get outta my sight before I change my mind 'bout teaching you a lesson.'</p>
- <p>Chastened by his harsh words, you hurry back into your car and drive towards the centre of the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The route Jaeger took yesterday, when he hiked from the well in the mountains to Interstate 8, followed the dry watercourse of the San Christobal Wash. For him it was a difficult trail to follow on foot, and you soon discover that it is even harder to negotiate in a pick-up truck. The broken ground is deeply rutted and littered with boulders, and progress is painfully slow.</p>
- <p>Rather than continue in this direction, you decide to try a more indirect route that takes you west, away from the Wash, across an expanse of desert. By chance you happen upon the remains of a dirt road that winds southwards into the mountains. You stay with this track and, although its surface is far from perfect, you make good time.</p>
- <p>At length you reach a ridge that overlooks the well. The site itself is located at the bottom of a bowl-shaped gully, shaded from the sun by two of the Mohawk's highest peaks. A pump house stands beside the bore-hole, to which is affixed a sign that reads:</p>
- <signpost>LUKE AIR FORCE RANGE</signpost>
- <signpost>GARCIA WELL</signpost>
- <signpost>US GOVT. PROPERTY<ch.emdash/>KEEP OUT!</signpost>
- <p>Carefully you descend, following the dirt road as it zigzags towards the site. You are within a few hundred yards of your destination when you are faced by an unexpected hazard. You take a sharp right bend to find that a section of the road beyond has collapsed. You brake, but the wheels skid on the loose stones and the rear of the truck starts to slide out towards the edge. Frantically you fight to correct the skid as the truck slides nearer and nearer to the edge of the steep ravine.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score. Add to this total your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If your total score is 27 or less, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If your total score is 28 or more, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring the grenade close to your face in order set its timer. Carefully you turn its dial to the minimum time setting<ch.emdash/>four seconds<ch.emdash/>then you ease out the pin and hurl it across the roof.</p>
- <p>A searing, yellow flash, is followed by a dull, percussive boom, which makes your ears pop. As the smoke clears, you see that one of the shooters lies dead, and the other is leaning against the parapet, clutching at his wounded thigh with his free hand. The seated clansman appears to have survived without injury. You draw a close combat weapon and move stealthily towards the group before the shock wears off. The seated clansman sees you approaching but, curiously, he does nothing to alert his wounded companion.</p>
- <p>You act quickly. The clansman may have a badly wounded leg, but his finger is uninjured and it is curled around the trigger of his assault rifle. You rush him and kick the gun out of his hands, sending it sailing over the parapet. Before it hits the ground, you press home your advantage and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cape Cod (wounded)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">13</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, and the weakened state of your adversary, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses that you sustain during the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Skilfully you swerve out of the line to avoid the falling disc. With a loud crunch, the metal plate cuts into your windshield, but because of your speedy action, it strikes the glass at an angle and is deflected away. The windshield is shattered by the impact but you and your partner escape without injury.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump out of the driver's seat and, together with Kate, run forward to join Cutter. Anxiously you ask for his orders.</p>
- <p>'We're gonna split into two groups,' he says, surveying and assessing the surrounding terrain. 'One group to help me fire these vehicles, the other to take up positions on the surrounding high ground, ready to open fire when the Lions show.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to help Cutter Set fire to the vehicles, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to take up a defensive position on the slopes overlooking the bridge, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you roll away from the dead clansman, you see Rickenbacker grappling with the other Outlaw. He looks like he has the upper hand until a blow to the side of his head sends him reeling to the ground. The Outlaw cackles and reaches for a knife sheathed at his belt, but Rickenbacker is too quick for him. He draws the blade he carries concealed in his boot, and hurls it backhandedly at the grinning clansman. It sinks hilt-deep into his chest. With a thin groan, the Outlaw throws his arms wide and drops, stiff-leggedly, to the ground.</p>
- <p>'That was a close-call,' says Rickenbacker, as he bends over the Outlaw and retrieves his blade. 'Damn close call.'</p>
- <p>You search the clansmen's bodies before hiding them, together with their bikes, in the barn. Your search uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li>Water Canteen</li>
- <li>Enough Water for two Drinks</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Dagger (2)</li>
- <li>Two Machine Pistols</li>
- <li>Twenty-eight rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>One Pistol</li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li>Enough food for one Meal</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these items, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>After checking that the two Outlaws were alone, you leave the cattle barn and go north in search of a suitable place to cross the Santa Rosa Wash.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339"><link-text>Turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you make the return journey across the mountains and reach Mohawk, and the expectant colony, late in the afternoon. The two of you are welcomed back like conquering heroes, and Jaeger is thanked especially. His help in replenishing the colony's water supply has undoubtedly saved many lives.</p>
- <p>A queue forms to draw water from the pick-up and, as you are first in line, you draw Kate's ration and deliver it to her in person. She is still recovering aboard the bus, but you are relieved to see that she looks much healthier than when you saw her last during the clan attack at Sentinel. You stay with her and talk about your hopes for the journey ahead, assuring her that soon you will be safely in California and free at last from the perils of the road. (During the time you spend with Kate you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Sometime later, Cutter enters the bus to tell you that the convoy will be moving out in ten minutes. The colony leaders feel that Mohawk is too vulnerable to a clan night attack and they want to reach Wellton, a town twenty-six miles to the west, and set up camp there. You are not too happy about their decision, but you choose not to argue and, after saying a fond farewell to Kate, you join Rickenbacker, who is waiting for you in the roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In response to your cry, Cutter leaps down from the school bus and throws you a folded blanket as you run towards the blazing Landcruiser. Desperately you shake it open and use it to beat at the flames, which are by now pouring out of a hole in the luggage compartment door. Despite your brave efforts, the flames grow steadily fiercer and you suffer first-degree burns to your hands and forearms. Soon you can tolerate the stinging pain no more and you are forced to retreat: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Uncle Jonas appears on the scene armed with a fire extinguisher, which he trains on the side of the blazing bus. A thick stream of foam gushes into the hole and arrests the flames just long enough to allow Cutter and a handful of the Tucson colonists to arm themselves with other fire-fighting equipment and put out the fire.</p>
- <p>Although you were injured, your bravery and swift response prevented the fire from igniting the vehicle's fuel tanks. However, there was nothing that could be done to save the contents of the compartment, which included all the colony's food and the bulk of its water supply.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145"><link-text>Turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The staccato rattle of the clansman's machine pistol fills your ears as you dive and roll for cover behind the nearest barbecue range.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add to this number your Stealth skill score, and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If your total score is 22 or less, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If your total score is 23 or more, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch Macy and Langdon disappearing eastwards towards the town of Mohawk, which nestles at the northern edge of the Mohawk Mountains. Then, when their Trans-sol is little more than a speck on the horizon, you turn to Rickenbacker and say: 'S'pose we'd better start searching for breakfast. Those two blocks over there look like they might be worth an hour's search each. What d'ya say?'</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker looks across the dust-blown precinct at the two buildings you have in mind: a Dixie supermart and a Worldfoods wholesale warehouse. 'I leave the choice t' you,' he replies, unenthusiastically.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to search the Dixie supermart, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you decide to search the Worldfoods warehouse, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the clansman sees Rickenbacker and shouts out in alarm. As he fumbles for his pistol, your partner hurries towards the ditch and leaps in to land by your side before the clansman can get off a shot. Alerted by his shout, his confederates come running across the bridge en masse. Then there is a jarring boom as the truck explodes with a brilliant flash of bright orange flame.</p>
- <p>'What the heck<ch.ellips/> !' you gasp, stunned by the unexpected force of the explosion. 'They had a keg of blasting powder in the back,' cries Rickenbacker, shouting to make himself heard above the rumbling echo of the explosion. 'So I lit the fuse!'</p>
- <p>As the dust clears, the clansmen struggle to their feet and run unsteadily towards the blazing remains of their truck. As they get nearer, you grit your teeth and prepare to open fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A heavy-set Detroit Lions scout, dressed in a leather motorcycle suit and with a necklace of bears' teeth strung about his throat, comes rushing up the slope towards you, his machine pistol spitting fire. Coolly you raise your own machine pistol and return his fire as his bullets whistle and whine around your head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At last your luck seems to have changed for the better, for the Casa Grande General Hospital is located only one block past the Exxon garage. Expectantly you enter the grounds and park your car among the rows of derelict autos that fill the front lot. The main entrance lobby is lit by fluorescent light, so you decide to enter by a side door in case the hospital is occupied by clansmen.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you follow a dimly lit corridor that echoes with the mesmeric hum of a generator running somewhere on a lower level of the building. The corridor is well sign-posted but none indicates the location of the medicine storage facility. At length you reach a junction and are faced with a choice of turning left towards the X-ray department, or right towards the administration offices.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to follow the corridor to the left, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you choose to follow the corridor to the right, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the bus you find Kate lying across the rear seat. Despite the heat she is covered with a blanket and is shivering fitfully. Aunt Betty-Ann, who is a qualified county nurse, is kneeling by her side, dabbing the beads of sweat from Kate's ashen face and trying to soothe her with words of reassurance.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Aunt Betty-Ann is kneeling by her side, dabbing the beads of sweat from Kate's ashen face</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="625" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="625" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'What's wrong?' you ask, anxiously.</p>
- <p>'I reckon it's food poisoning,' she replies. There were a few mushrooms in a meal she ate 'bout an hour ago.'</p>
- <p>She continues to wipe her face, then suddenly she blurts out: 'Dammit! I know they were checked, but when I looked just now I found one that was a wrong 'un. Fly Agaric. Don't know how the heck it got in with the others, seem' how careful we were when we packed the food in Tucson.'</p>
- <p>'Will she be OK?' you ask alarmed.</p>
- <p>'She's a strong girl and she's fighting it, but this is serious poison, Cal. The mushroom she ate contains an alkaloid called Muscarine. It's -' Your aunt notices the fear in your eyes and stops in mid-sentence.</p>
- <p>'She'll be OK, Cal. She's strong <ch.ellips/> she'll be OK.'</p>
- <p>'Isn't there something we can do, something we can give her to help her fight it? For crying out loud, we can't just let her <ch.ellips/> let her die!'</p>
- <p>You feel your aunt gripping your hand tightly, as you try to combat the fear that is churning your stomach and numbing your mind. 'What she really needs is Atropine. It'll neutralize the alkaloid and her body'll do the rest. We've searched the colony's medical supplies and the drugstores in this town but none's been found. All we can do is hope she's strong enough to get through the next few hours.'</p>
- <p>'Aunt Betty-Ann, what are her chances, I mean, her real chances o' pullin' through?'</p>
- <p>'To be honest, Cal,' she replies, her voice wavering, 'they're less than fifty per cent.'</p>
- <p>Quietly you leave the bus. Rickenbacker appears and says something about the roadster but his words do not register. The gnawing fear that you could lose Kate fills your thoughts and blocks out everything. Numbly you wander back to the roadster and sit alone in the driving seat, staring unseeingly at the swirling clouds of dust as you try to come to terms with what has happened. At length you decide to try to find some Atropine. As if you have suddenly awaken from a dream, your mind comes alive and you are galvanized into action.</p>
- <p>You take out your map and search for your present location. You reason that Atropine is not something you would normally find in a downtown drugstore, but you would expect to find it in a hospital. Quickly you scour the map and discover that the nearest hospitals to Gila Bend are in Ajo and Casa Grande.</p>
- <p>Consult your <a idref="map">map</a> before deciding which of the hospitals you will visit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to drive to Ajo and search there, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you choose to go to Casa Grande and search there, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull over to the side of the road and Rickenbacker radios to the convoy, instructing it to stop and stand by. Using your lenses you are able to see that behind the tents a road block has been erected. It consists of rubble and auto wrecks, and it completely blocks the highway leading to the town of Westmorland. The road south to Brawley is open, but there are several strange-looking people standing at the junction, either singly or gathered in groups. Some are dressed in brightly coloured patchwork clothes, others are half-naked, yet all of them have one thing in common: they move with such lethargy that, from a distance, they resemble a colony of shambling zombies.</p>
- <p>'I don't like the look of this,' you say to your partner. 'Radio the convoy and get them to put Cookie on. Maybe he knows something about these wierdos.'</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker complies with your request and, within a minute or so, you are talking to Cookie person-to-person. 'Sounds like you've run across a pack of Crazies,' says Cookie, after listening to your description of the people at the junction. 'They're mainly junkies and street-scum that the army kicked outta LA and San Francisco. They're usually pretty harmless, but watch y'selves. You never can tell what they'll get up to.'</p>
- <p>You thank Cookie for the advice and sign off by telling the convoy that you and Rickenbacker are on your way back. You are about to reach for the ignition when suddenly you hear movement away to your right. You turn your head and see three Crazies<ch.emdash/>two men and a woman<ch.emdash/>emerge from the scrub and scurry towards the truck. Despite their frightening appearance, you notice that none of them appears to be armed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to start the truck and drive away, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to stop and question them, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The colony refuses to trust Cookie, and they will not allow you to risk his betraying the convoy's presence in the area. They tell you to retie his hands and deal with the clan patrol as best you can. Rickenbacker tries to argue but he cannot make them change their minds. Before they sign off, they tell you to maintain radio silence until the bridge is clear, just in case the clansmen are monitoring the frequencies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake late the following morning and open your eyes to the unexpected sight of sunlight streaming in through the window of your room. During the night the dust storm has abated steadily, and now, two hours before noon, the sun once again reigns supreme in the azure skies above Gila Bend. Your first thoughts are of Kate and immediately they spur you into action. Hurriedly you gather up your equipment and run all the way to the school bus.</p>
- <p>You enter to find Kate sipping soup from a spoon that Aunt Betty-Ann is holding to her lips. She still looks pale, but at least she is no longer at death's door. When she sees you she smiles and holds out her hand.</p>
- <p>'How ya doin', kiddo?' you say, light-heartedly, and squeeze her fingers, which are cold to the touch.</p>
- <p>'Better <ch.ellips/> thanks to you,' she replies. You talk to her while she drinks the last of the soup. Then your aunt goes to the front of the bus and returns with another bowl.</p>
- <p>'Here you go, Cal,' she says, 'have some brunch.'</p>
- <p>'Not mushrooms, I hope,' you comment, which makes Kate smile.</p>
- <p>As you are finishing your meal, Rickenbacker climbs aboard and informs you that the convoy will be leaving in an hour. 'We'd better get ready, Cal,' he says. 'Mike Gorgas wants us to cover point. Macy and Langdon will be the convoy's rear guard.'</p>
- <p>'OK,' you reply, as you get ready to leave. You thank your aunt for the food (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and then kiss Kate goodbye before returning with Rickenbacker to your roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lock down the bolt of your rifle with the heel of your right hand as, simultaneously, you bed the stock firmly into your shoulder with your left. As though the rifle were simply an extension of your mind and body, you take a deep breath and wait for the traitor to cross in front of your sights. The instant he appears, you squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If your total score is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect255-1-foot" idref="sect255-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your gun up and fire at the first enemy clansman you see.<a id="sect255-1" idref="sect255-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Your snap shot catches him in the legs and sends him tumbling to the ground, but not before he has had a chance to return the compliment. Fortunately, in the heat of this firefight, your reactions have become lightning fast. His machine-pistol fire rips up the ground around your feet, but you save yourself by diving for cover amongst the sparse scrub that borders the railroad line.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">To continue, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'This should do for their radio,' you say, as you pluck the grenade out of your backpack. Rickenbacker allows himself a grim smile, then he replies:</p>
- <p>'I'll edge nearer to the bridge and get ready to cover you. Only wait till I'm in position before you blow the truck, OK?'</p>
- <p>'OK,' you reply, confidently, and watch as he moves forward, on elbows and knees, through the sparse scrub. Once he is in position, in a dry ditch running close to the bridge, he gives a signal and you begin your approach to the enemy's pick-up truck.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Stealth skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If it is now 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself forwards and roll clear as the clansmen's car glances your roadster's rear fender. You suffer gashes to your hands and knees (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but your swift action saves you from being crushed to death. As you recover you see the clan car smash through the freeway crash barrier. With a sickening crunch, it hits a telegraph pole, overturns, then spills its occupants out on to the sun-baked earth as it rolls to the bottom of a steep embankment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed of your reactions saves you from the snake's vicious bite. Its venomous jaw snaps shut on thin air and, before you have a chance to retaliate, it drops down off the shelf and slithers away into the shadows, its tail rattling furiously.</p>
- <p>Still trembling with the shock of your close encounter, you take your hard-won case of food and return with it to the roadster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cross the centre of the campsite and follow a paved path that leads to a barbecue area. Several brick-built ranges are dotted around this enclosure, beyond which you can see another log cabin. It is larger than any of the others, and, judging by the faded sign that hangs from its roof, it once served as a restaurant for the site.</p>
- <p>As you approach the barbecue area, you see Rickenbacker crouched behind one of the ranges. He is involved in a firefight with the clansman, who is hiding behind another brick range over on the other side, near the restaurant. Rickenbacker fires a long burst, which pulverizes the clansman's position. His clip finally runs out of ammunition and the clansman leaps away from his bullet-ridden range and sprints towards the restaurant. He is hoping to get there before your partner can reload his gun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you have a missile weapon and wish to fire at the clansman, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you decide to chase after him, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more you ask Avenal to get out of your way, but your request is totally ignored. Stubbornly he remains fixed before your car and launches into a monologue that is so full of insults and coarse innuendo that it leaves you trembling with anger. The thought of Kate slowly dying while you are held up by this abusive character is almost too much to bear. Frazer, seeing that you are fast approaching breaking point, steps in and orders Avenal to get out of the road. Reluctantly he obeys, and at once you drive off towards the centre of Gila Bend.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinded and sickened by the tear gas, you fail to stop yourself from falling over the edge of the fire-escape platform. Helplessly you plummet through the air and crash head-first through the roof of the clan truck parked below.</p>
- <p>Tragically your journey and your life terminate here at Wellton, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'The only chance we've got of reaching Pine Valley is if the Lions can be prevented from pursuing us,' says Cutter, his voice uncharacteristically hard. You look around the gathered group and see stark fear in the colonist's faces, for most have anticipated what Cutter is about to propose.</p>
- <p>'What we need are volunteers to stay behind and hold up Mad Dog Michigan's column just long enough for the convoy to reach Pine Valley. I'm willing to stay. Who'll stay with me?'</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to volunteer to stay with Cutter and fight a rear-guard action against the Lions, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you do not want to volunteer to stay behind, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the two of you ease yourselves out of the roadster and stand with your hands out by your sides, although neither of you feels it wise to let go of your guns. Your nerves are taut and you are ready to dive to the ground at the first sign of trouble.</p>
- <p>'Where are you from?' shouts the man.</p>
- <p>'Texas,' replies Rickenbacker. 'We're on our way to California.'</p>
- <p>'Guess that makes three of us,' he says, and slowly he lowers his shotgun as he walks towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect264-1-foot" idref="sect264-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The car brakes violently and goes into a spin.<a id="sect264-1" idref="sect264-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The driver, his eyes and mouth open wide with horror, fights desperately to correct the skid. But before he can regain control, Rickenbacker machine-guns the rear tyres and sends the car careering through the crash barrier. With a crunch of buckling metal, it hits a telegraph pole, overturns, and spills its occupants out on to the sun-baked earth as it rolls to a halt at the bottom of a steep embankment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flip open your pouch, remove a handful of pain killers, and throw them out on to the ground beside the truck's cab. Immediately the three Crazies leap on the scattered pills and fight each other like hungry rats to get more than a fair share. The sight of their animalistic behaviour turns your stomach, and when Rickenbacker prods you in the ribs and says, 'C'mon Cal, let's go,' you gladly reach for the ignition and slam the gas pedal flat to the floor.</p>
- <p>Erase three units from your Medi-kit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">To continue, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ignoring the pleas of his partner, the angry clansman approaches your door. He is just a few feet away when he realizes that you are a colonist and instantly he reaches for a pistol that is holstered at his side. With your pulse pounding in your ears, you stamp on the gas pedal and feel yourself being forced back into your seat as the roadster lurches forward like a startled mare.</p>
- <p>The clansman jumps back, but he has drawn his pistol and, as you pass him, he fires at your side window.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A large, foul-mouthed Detroit Lions scout, dressed in a grimy green leather riding suit, and with a necklace of bears' teeth strung about his throat, comes rushing up the slope towards you, his machine pistol spitting fire. Coolly you raise your rifle to your shoulder and take aim, ignoring the bullets that are whistling and whining about your ears.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If your total score is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect268-1-foot" idref="sect268-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire your shotgun and see the clansman thrown backwards by the force of the lead shot at such short range.<a id="sect268-1" idref="sect268-1-foot" class="footnote" /> No sooner has his body crashed lifelessly to the ground than one of his comrades leaps over him and jumps straight at you with his hands outstretched. Before you can pump another round into the breach and fire again, he grapples the shotgun from your hands, then lunges forwards to fasten his steely fingers around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Re-con</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the suddenness of the attack, you cannot make use of a close combat weapon until the third round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach out to grab the rope, but another wave of debris hits you in the face and knocks you over the edge. With a terrified scream, you tumble more than 100 feet into the Colorado River and hit the half-submerged trunk of your roadster. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here within sight of the Californian state line.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clansman reaches through one of the shattered door panels and fumbles for the lever that will release the lock. As you bring your gun to bear, the door begins to concertina open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you are armed with a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you are armed with a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you are armed with a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you are armed with a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect271-1-foot" idref="sect271-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your pistol shot hits the clansman in the chest, killing him instantly.<a id="sect271-1" idref="sect271-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The sight of his body tumbling backwards down the slope sends a shock wave through his confederates, and at once their attack falters. Encouraged by their sudden change of heart, you watch as they fall back towards their trucks, which are parked in the centre of the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both you and Rickenbacker are lost in thought as you climb back into the roadster and await the signal to leave. A few minutes later you hear that signal<ch.emdash/>three blasts from the air horn of Mike Gorgas' Mack truck<ch.emdash/>and at once you lead the convoy out of Gila Bend, heading west on Interstate 8.</p>
- <p>Five miles along the freeway you come to a small, deserted town called Smurr. A broken-down clan bike lies abandoned outside the town's gas station, and you fear that this might mean that the Outlaws are lying in wait on the road ahead. To make sure that it is safe, the convoy waits here while you and Rickenbacker go ahead to check out Sentinel, the next town along the freeway.</p>
- <p>Fifteen miles from Smurr, the freeway approaches the entrance to a pass through the Painted Rock Mountains.</p>
- <p>Add together your Perception skill score and your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. Now pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add this to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If your final total is 17 or less, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If your final total is 18 or more, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Spurred on by terror and desperation, you attack the window with an almost manic fury. The laboratory door is now ablaze, and acrid fumes fill the room with a sickening stench that makes you dizzy and nauseous: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Finally your desperate efforts are rewarded when the armoured window collapses. Amid billowing clouds of grey smoke, you force yourself through the frame and land with a jolt on the asphalt surface of a parking lot. As clean air fills your lungs your strength returns, enabling you to flee the area before one massive explosion destroys the warehouse completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Left with only one good front tyre, you find yourself battling with the steering wheel to keep the roadster progressing in a straight line. You have barely regained control when another burst of gunfire punches a line of dents across the hood, and forces you to swerve violently to avoid the driving compartment being riddled with lead. With skill, you bring the car to a halt alongside an auto wreck, and shout to your partner to bale out. Bullets whistle all around as you and Rickenbacker tumble out of your seats and seek cover behind the roadster's armour-plated side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect275-1-foot" idref="sect275-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shot misses the clansman, but its proximity makes him recoil and crash backwards down the embankment.<a id="sect275-1" idref="sect275-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Unfortunately, his fall diverts your attention from his partner, who has successfully climbed the bank and is now rushing your position with a knife in his hand. As you turn to face him, he leaps upon you and wrestles your gun from your grasp.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Deacon Blue</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you win, and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If the fight is still in progress at the start of the fifth round, do not continue. Instead, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your lenses to bear on the bridge and focus on the thin man. The stick he is holding has a forked cleft at one end, and he appears to be attempting to catch snakes, probably for food. You hand your glasses to Rickenbacker to let him observe the man's strange behaviour.</p>
- <p>'What do you think?' you ask.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker shrugs. 'I can't see no gun and he looks harmless enough. I say we go 'n' check him out.'</p>
- <p>Slowly you drive towards the bridge, your eyes fixed on the man's movements. You are little more than thirty yards away when suddenly he sees you coming and dives to the ground. He reappears seconds later, brandishing a rusty shotgun, which he fires once in the air. You can tell by its dull report that there is something wrong with his ammunition. Immediately you stop the roadster and reach instinctively for your gun.</p>
- <p>'Don't you come any nearer, you damn punks,' he screams, as he dodges from the cover of one bridge support to the next. 'I'm warning you. I've got an anti-tank rocket, and I've mined the road. You come any nearer an' you'll be blown to kingdom come. Now turn round an' get outta here before I get angry.'</p>
- <p>There is a long pause, then Rickenbacker says: 'He's bluffing <ch.ellips/> he's scared and he's playin' for time.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to try to talk with this loner, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you decide to leave the roadster and approach him with stealth, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you fifteen minutes of patient manipulation, but your efforts and skill are rewarded. With a satisfying click, the lock disengages and you are granted access to the lobby beyond. A study of the hospital plan reveals the location of the medicine storage facility, which you commit to memory.</p>
- <p>'Third right <ch.ellips/> second left <ch.ellips/> second right <ch.ellips/>' you mumble as you set off in search of the vital Atropine you need to save Kate's life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the pick-up truck parked behind a billboard at the entrance to the town and enter on foot. This tiny desert town consists of no more than two dozen buildings, all of which are in a state of partial collapse. Only two offer any shelter to a would-be ambusher: a motorcycle shop and a general store.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to investigate the motorcycle shop, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you decide to take a look inside the general store, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expectantly you ease open the door but something makes you stop dead in your tracks. It is a dog-like whimpering, followed by a low growl. The sound makes you uneasy, and you reach for your gun before opening the door any wider.</p>
- <p>The room beyond is dimly lit by the glow from the roadster's headlights which filters in through an open window. The light is just enough for you to make out something moving near the ground. Suddenly a howl splits the silence and the shape leaps up at your chest.</p>
- <p>At once you raise and fire your gun at the moving shadow. For a split second the open mouth and head of a ravenous coyote is lit up by the muzzle flash of your weapon. Then, as your shot catches it in the chest, the wild dog stops in mid-air and falls dead at your feet.</p>
- <p>Still trembling with the shock of your encounter, you step over the coyote and peer into the room, only to find that it is filled with dusty, orthopaedic apparatus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grenade bounces in front of the truck, rolls, then comes to rest directly beneath its fuel tank. A few seconds pass, then there is a huge bang, followed almost immediately by a huge ball of orange flame. A searing wave of heat knocks you flat on your back and leaves you gasping for air: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>In the rear of the truck was loaded a keg of blasting powder, and this, coupled with the vehicle's gasolene, has produced a spectacularly devastating explosion.</p>
- <p>The noise alerts the other clansmen and suddenly all hell breaks loose. They leap to their feet and come running across the bridge, cursing and fumbling for their weapons as they do so. Through a pall of falling dust you hobble to where Rickenbacker is hiding and lower yourself into the ditch beside him.</p>
- <p>'What the heck was that?' he gasps, stunned by the unexpected force of the explosion.</p>
- <p>'They must have had some explosives on board,' you reply. 'I think it's safe to say the radio's been destroyed!'</p>
- <p>As the dust clears slowly, you see the clansmen running towards the blazing remains of their truck. As they get nearer, you take up your gun and prepare to open fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that a side door to the restaurant cabin is open, and cautiously you move across the barbecue area towards it. You have taken less than a dozen steps when the clansman rises up from behind a brick range to your left. He has an ugly sneer fixed on his face and a machine pistol, poised to fire, cradled in his calloused hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to dive to the ground to avoid being shot, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you wish to raise your gun to try to shoot him first, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At such close range the shots are deafening. You shake as each one explodes in your ears, scarcely daring to hope that you will survive being hit at point-blank range. So resigned are you to your doom that it takes you several seconds to realize that you have not been shot at all.</p>
- <p>Tentatively you open your eyes to see Avenal kneeling in front of you, still holding the pistol, a coil of smoke rising lazily from its barrel. You pat your chest to confirm that you have not been drilled full of holes, then glance over your shoulder to see where the bullets have gone. A leather-jacketed clansman lies face-up on the plaza, unmoving, his chest and stomach stained bright red. A bowie knife is clenched in one of his bony hands, and a grenade, its pin undrawn, is gripped tightly in the other.</p>
- <p>'Despite what you think o' me, Phoenix,' shouts Avenal, 'I ain't no traitor. There's your traitor.' He points towards the street bordering the plaza. There you see John Barlow running half-crouched towards a clan scout who is sitting astride a motorcycle.</p>
- <p>The clansman is shouting encouragement, and, as Barlow scurries nearer, he shuffles forward to make room for the traitor on the back of his riding seat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you possess a missile weapon and wish to fire it at Barlow, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or choose not to fire it at Barlow, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stunned and deafened by the unexpected explosion, you drag yourself upright into a sitting position in time to see, through the acrid smoke, a figure approaching the open doorway. Blindly you feel for your gun but it is nowhere to hand. Then the high-pitched sound of a small engine pierces the incessant ringing in your ears, at once setting your nerves on edge.</p>
- <p>You reach for a close combat weapon as the figure steps into the lodge, and your blood runs cold when the maniacal features of Mad Dog Michigan swim into focus before your eyes. His crash into the Pantona Wash has cost him dearly. His face is a criss-cross of livid scars, many of them swollen around the stitches that are keeping the torn flesh together. He has lost his left hand, and one eye is hidden behind a patch of black cotton. It serves a practical purpose, hiding a now-empty socket, yet it also exaggerates the expression of hate and vengeance that fixes the clan leader's mouth.</p>
- <p>'Revenge is mine at last<ch.emdash/>Phoenix!' he spits, and raises the motorized chainsaw that he grasps in his right hand. The motor screams as he slashes wildly at the air, then he brings the buzzing, toothed blade down upon a table top and its surface explodes into splinters and dust. He laughs a madman's laugh as he steps slowly nearer to where you sit. With a final howl of glee, he raises the saw and screams, 'Now you die!'</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>With a final howl of glee, Mad Dog Michigan raises the saw and screams, 'Now you die!'</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to throw your close combat weapon at Mad Dog Michigan, in an attempt to ward off his attack, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you do not wish to throw your weapon, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you draw a close combat weapon and creep forwards, using the wrecked cars and the howling storm to cover your approach. As you move, you keep your eyes on the clansman. He stops to shelter in the lee of a panel truck, where he attempts to light a hand-made cigarette.</p>
- <p>You are within five feet of him when suddenly he turns and sees you. Before he can scream a warning to his fellow clan brothers, you leap forward and launch your attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Groucho</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, you can ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect285-1-foot" idref="sect285-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shot catches one of the clansmen in the side.<a id="sect285-1" idref="sect285-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He screams and falls against his partner, who is forced to drop his rifle in order to catch his wounded companion. Rather than fire a second shot, you jump on to the roof and run towards the group. The clansman who is sitting with his back to the parapet sees you approaching, and a wave of fear knots your stomach as you wait expectantly for his shout of alarm. But curiously he does nothing to alert his companions.</p>
- <p>Instinct prompts you to act quickly in case he has a change of heart. You rush forward and attack the two riflemen before they can disentangle themselves. Your first blow sends the wounded clansman tumbling over the parapet. Then, before his companion recovers his senses, you jump forward and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cape Cod</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses that you sustain in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'What we need is a diversion,' says Langdon, 'something to draw them Outlaws away from their camp. The intersection is in the suburbs of Arizona City, and we figure that if we were to start a fire there, a real big fire mind, then it might jus' keep 'em interested long enough for the convoy to high-tail it through to I-8.'</p>
- <p>'It's risky,' you reply, thoughtfully, 'but I reckon' it might jus' work. Let's put it to the convoy an' see what they say.'</p>
- <p>Using the Trans-sol's transceiver, you radio through to Pop Ewell and inform him of the situation. He says he'll have to consult the others for a decision, but in the meantime, he advises you and the other scouts to head for Eloy and wait there until the convoy arrives.</p>
- <p>It takes less than fifteen minutes to reach Eloy. The town is derelict and its once-prosperous stores bear obvious signs of having been looted many times over in the past few months. You park near the centre of town and consider the idea of searching some of the nearby buildings. Although the chance of finding anything of practical use is remote, you have some time to kill: the convoy is not due to arrive here for another two hours.</p>
- <p>Looking around at the ruined stores, you note only two that look in any way interesting: an auto repair workshop and a gun store.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to search the workshop, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you choose to search the gun store, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The harsh hammering of the clansman's machine pistol is the last sound you will ever hear. Sharp, stinging cores of pain punch you repeatedly in the stomach and fearfully you clasp your hands to your midriff as you tumble backwards to the ground. Warm blood oozes between your fingers but although you are incapable of moving, you no longer feel pain. Aware that you have been shot, and that the shock of your wounds has numbed your senses, you close your eyes and wish yourself out of this nightmare,</p>
- <p>The urge to sleep overwhelms you. Coupled with the creeping numbness that has spread through your body, you surrender to death's timeless embrace.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at Picacho.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you search through your Medi-kit pouch for an ampoule of snake bite serum, but there is none to be found. Then the piercing agony of your wound begins to fade and a terrifying numbness spreads down through your body and along your limbs. You try to scream, but your vocal cords have been damaged and numbed by the snake's bite and you can manage little more than a gurgling croak. By the time Rickenbacker and the others discover your body, it is too late to save your life.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your adventure ends here in Dateland, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are lost in thought when, unexpectedly, a mileage sign and an exit ramp loom out of the dusty darkness. Unfortunately, you overshoot the ramp, but you know by the tachometer on the dashboard, which you re-set to zero before leaving Gila Bend, that you are near the correct freeway exit for Casa Grande, so you stop your car and reverse it for several hundred yards.</p>
- <p>The sign points to Highway 84 and lists the towns of Stanfield (ten miles) and Casa Grande (twenty-three miles). Night has now fallen, although visibility has been so poor that you hardly notice the transition from day to night. With one eye on the tachometer, you follow Highway 84 until, ten miles later, the buildings of Stanfield start to appear on either side of the road. They are little more than fuzzy grey silhouettes, featureless and indistinguishable from each other.</p>
- <p>Suddenly up ahead you see a light. You sense it could spell danger, so you bring your roadster quickly to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you possess a <typ class="item">Combat Viewer</typ>, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutter sets fire to a rag and tosses it on to the flat bed of a pick-up truck at the end of the line. There is a loud rush of air<ch.emdash/>Whumph<ch.emdash/>and a brilliant flash of yellow light: the whole line of vehicles is engulfed by a wall of flame.</p>
- <p>Through the shimmering heat haze you see the first vehicle in the clan convoy roll to a halt about 200 yards from the blazing barricade. The others stop in line behind it and a swarm of leather-clad clansmen disembark and scurry for cover among the rocks on either side of the freeway. You glance at Kate and force a smile as you slip off your gun's safety catch and prepare to meet their advance.</p>
- <p>'I'm scared,' she whispers, her soft voice wavering with fear.</p>
- <p>'Don't worry,' you say, reassuringly, 'we're gonna make it.'</p>
- <p>Then you hear the distant popping of gunfire, and bullets start to whistle and buzz above your head like angry insects. To your right, a group of fellow defenders open fire at a pair of clansmen who have broken cover less than 100 yards away. They are trying to descend the embankment to the railroad track. Bullets kick up the dust all around them but, miraculously, neither is hit.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>As the clansmen descend the embankment, bullets kick up the dust all around them but, miraculously, neither is hit.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="624" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="624" />
- </illustration>
- <p>They reach the rails and run beneath the bridge, disappearing quickly from view. You have turned your attention back to the freeway, and are getting ready to fire your first shot, when suddenly the two clansmen reappear barely ten yards in front of the hollow. Covered by the gradient and the wire-hard scrub, they have approached close enough for you to be able to see the whites of their eyes. The leader steadies himself on the steep slope and draws his pistol. He is staring fixedly at you, leaving you in no doubt that you are his intended target.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If the weapon you are using is a Pistol, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If it is a Machine Pistol, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If it is a Rifle, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If it is a Shotgun, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expectantly you reach for the handle but, as your hand closes around the steel lever, you hear something that makes you stop dead in your tracks. A scuttling scratching sound is coming from inside the storage room. Gently you depress the handle and open the door an inch or two, only to pull it shut quickly when you get a glimpse of what lurks inside. Thousands of cockroaches cover every surface in the store room, seething and undulating like some grotesque living carpet.</p>
- <p>It takes you several minutes to muster enough courage to open the door a second time, but before you do, you take off your jacket and tuck your jeans into your boots to prevent the insects from crawling up your legs. As the door opens and your light floods into the room, the insects panic and come rushing towards you like a torrent of vile brown water. Determinedly you meet this tidal wave and beat a path towards a table in the middle of the room. Using your jacket to clear the surface, you climb on to it and wait there<ch.emdash/>a tiny island in the middle of a stormy brown sea<ch.emdash/>until the cockroaches have dispersed into the corridor outside. When eventually the loathsome tide ebbs, you jump down from the table and begin your search for Atropine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you run through the deadly hail of lead, you are half-aware of a burning sensation that cuts across the back of your calf. But it is not until you reach the safety of the alleyway that you dare to look down, to find that you have been wounded: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Quickly you staunch the bleeding and then hobble the length of the narrow, tunnel-like passage. At the far end, you discover a battered pick-up truck, daubed with clan emblems and slogans, parked beside a fire-escape ladder that is lowered all the way to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to stop to search the vehicle, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to climb the fire-escape ladder to the roof, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fighting back the sadness that you feel at having lost your roadster, you put on a brave face and join the others on the far side of the dam. Some of the colonists are celebrating their entry to California, but their numbers are few and, in the main, the mood of the colony is one of pessimism. You may have crossed the Californian state line, but you still have a long way to go before you reach civilization.</p>
- <p>Pop Ewell tries once more to radio Pine Valley, but the contact is worse than before and he concludes that the mountains must be blocking the signal. On this side of the river lies the remains of a dirt road which runs north to south. Maps are consulted and it is found that this trail leads north to a small camping settlement called Picacho, and south to Yuma. As it is far too dangerous to approach Yuma, it is decided to go north in the hope of finding a way through the mountains to Highway 78.</p>
- <p>You join Rickenbacker in the clan pick-up truck and begin scouting the way ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect294-1-foot" idref="sect294-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your gun and fire at the first enemy clansman you see. Your snap shot catches him in the legs and sends him tumbling to the ground, but not before he has had a chance to return fire.<a id="sect294-1" idref="sect294-1-foot" class="footnote" /> His burst of machine-pistol fire rips up the ground around your feet, and you are knocked down by a ricocheting slug: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">To continue, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the convoy to find many of the colonists in a state of shock. Several groups of women and children are huddled together for comfort, many of them sobbing. A few people are shouting incoherently, while others stare vacantly at the ground, or point seemingly at random at the surrounding ruins. Everywhere you look there is an air of chaos and confusion.</p>
- <p>By far the largest group of colonists is gathered around Mike Gorgas' truck. You stop nearby, and as you hurry over to find out what exactly is wrong, you see Cutter emerge from the group.</p>
- <p>'What's wrong?' you ask.</p>
- <p>'It's Gorgas,' he replies. 'He's dead.'</p>
- <p>The news sends a cold shiver down your spine. 'But h-how?' you continue, your voice wavering.</p>
- <p>'Murdered by the looks of it. Knife through the heart. Rex Tyler found him in his cab 'bout five minutes ago.'</p>
- <p>You look over Cutter's shoulder and see two Tucson men holding Rex Tyler firmly by the arms. Fear is stark in Rex's eyes as another Tucson colonist launches a stream of questions at him, and jabs him repeatedly in the chest with his index finger.</p>
- <p>'Why are they holding Rex?' you ask, growing concerned for your friend's safety.</p>
- <p>'They reckon he's the killer,' replies Cutter.</p>
- <p>'But Rex wouldn't hurt a fly,' interjects Rickenbacker.</p>
- <p>'I can't believe it's him.'</p>
- <p>'Neither can I,' says Cutter, 'but it was his knife they found in Gorgas's chest.'</p>
- <p>'What's gonna happen to him now?' you say.</p>
- <p>'I guess we'll have to give him a fair trial<ch.emdash/>it's the least we can do. Only it's gonna have t' wait. Macy and Langdon have spotted some Outlaw scouts on their way here. They're heading a large pack, judging by their numbers, and they're only 'bout three hours away, so they reckon. I hope you two didn't find no trouble in Sentinel 'cause we'd better move out now if we're gonna stay ahead of those clansmen.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you want to break the bad news to Cutter and tell him about the rockfall at the Painted Mountain Pass, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to investigate Mike Gorgas' death first, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While the vehicles are being checked, you drive to the rear of the line to make sure that the Chargers have not chosen to pursue the colony. You can see no sign of clan activity on the freeway, and when you relay this news to the colonists, an air of excitement grips them. You are now less than fifty miles from the Pine Valley checkpoint: the end of the journey is at last within grasp.</p>
- <p>Now that you no longer need to stay in break-out formation, you take your place at the head of the convoy and head off along the Interstate. Soon you reach a place with the ominous name of Devil's Canyon, where the east and west lanes of the freeway part company in order to bypass a ridge of high ground. This ridge marks the start of a gradual climb towards the Tecate Divide and the mountains of southern California, which have been instrumental in sparing the Pacific coastal territories from the worst of the post-holocaust storms that have devastated the country's mid-western and eastern states.</p>
- <p>You are mindful that Pop Ewell is eager to contact the Pine Valley checkpoint and, as you emerge from Devil's Canyon, you see a place that looks like the ideal location for him to transmit his radio message.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a loud bang, and you are forced to the floor. The taste of blood fills your mouth and colours swirl in front of your eyes, only to be replaced by a black void. Sounds grow faint, and the urge to sleep becomes irresistible: It is a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your adventure and your life end here in Dateland, Arizona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A line of dust flurries chases towards you as the clansman's bullets drill themselves into the ground. Rickenbacker returns fire, buying you enough time to roll back to the cover of the car, but not before one of the slugs has gouged a furrow of flesh from the calf of your right leg: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Wincing from the pain of your wound, you drag yourself to your knees and fumble for your weapon. Then the chattering of your partner's machine pistol stops in mid-burst, and you hear him cursing as frantically he struggles to extract a dud cartridge that has jammed in the breach.</p>
- <p>Seconds later the shadowy figure reappears in the doorway clutching a gun at hip level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to open fire at this target, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose not to open fire, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The darkness makes it very difficult to take accurate aim, but as soon as the shadowy clan group appears at the other end of your rifle, you squeeze the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If your total score is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your partner confirms that the town is empty of clansmen. He radios the convoy, telling them as much, and shortly after receiving his call the colony arrives.</p>
- <p>You spend a trouble-free night at Glamis and, a little after dawn the next morning, you and Rickenbacker set off to scout Highway 78. As has become standard practice, you drive two miles ahead of the colony and report back to them regularly by radio. During your drive west, you pass over several small bridges that cross canals running north from the Colorado River to the Salton Sea. This area was extensively cultivated at the turn of the century, to produce the extra food required to feed the rapidly growing urban populations of Los Angeles and San Diego. Now all that remains is a storm-ravaged wasteland.</p>
- <p>The journey passes without incident until you reach a highway junction. A mass of tents and bivouacs have been erected here, partially covering the road ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you possess <typ class="item">Binoculars</typ>, a <typ class="item">Telescope</typ> or a <typ class="item">Combat Viewer</typ>, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you do not possess any of these items, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you drive towards the bridge, your eyes fixed on the man's movements. You are little more than thirty yards away when suddenly he sees you coming and dives to the ground. He reappears seconds later, brandishing a rusty shotgun, which he fires once in the air. You can tell by its dull report that there is something wrong with his ammunition. Immediately you stop the roadster and reach instinctively for your gun.</p>
- <p>'Don't you come any nearer, you damn punks,' he screams, as he dodges from the cover of one bridge support to the next. 'I'm warning you. I've got an anti-tank rocket, and I've mined the road. You come any nearer an' you'll be blown to kingdom come. Now turn round an' get outta here before I get angry.'</p>
- <p>There is a long pause, then Rickenbacker says: 'He's bluffing <ch.ellips/> he's scared and he's playin' for time.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to try to talk with this loner, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you decide to leave the roadster and approach him with stealth, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A pot-bellied Detroit Lions scout, dressed in an ill-fitting riding suit of grimy green leather, and with a string of bears' teeth hung about his throat, comes lumbering up the slope towards you with his machine pistol spitting fire. Coolly you raise your shotgun and take aim, despite the wave of bullets that are whistling and whining about your ears.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two Outlaws continue to ride towards the bridge, and come to within 100 yards of your position before bringing their machines to a halt. One of them, a thin-limbed punk with a shaven head, kneels down to examine something on the ground. Then he stands, takes up a pair of binoculars slung around his neck, and focuses them on the bridge itself. The other biker, who is dressed in a tattered blue denim boiler-suit, takes a long swig from a water canteen that is strapped to his chest.</p>
- <p>'Shall we take 'em out?' whispers Rickenbacker.</p>
- <p>You are about to reply when the shaven-headed clansman stiffens. He lets his binoculars fall and snatches up the machine-pistol that is slung beneath his shoulder. Somehow, by sound or instinct, he has been alerted to your position. He shouts a warning to his partner and they scurry into the surrounding brush before you have a chance to fire.</p>
- <p>'They know we're here,' hisses Rickenbacker. 'I don't like it.'</p>
- <p>'Keep a lookout to the right. I'll cover the left,' you reply, as quietly as you can.</p>
- <p>With your nerves on edge you scour the surrounding undergrowth. A sudden noise to your left, like that of a falling stone hitting the ground, makes you turn your head, but a quieter shuffling noise to your right causes you to turn back just in time to see the shaven-headed clansman running towards you with a knife in his hand. He makes a dive and is upon you before you can fire a shot. Instinctively you grab his wrist and manage to twist the blade from his hand, but tenaciously he fights back, kicking and clawing like a wild animal as he launches his fight to the finish.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pee-Wee</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You are unable to evade combat and must fight the clansman to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Against your better judgement, you leave Cookie tied up in the cab of the pick-up truck before you begin the unenviable task of clearing the bridge. A five-mile detour takes you across the Gila River and enables you to approach the clansmen from the north, the direction in which they would be least expecting an attack. After observing their small encampment, you decide that the first priority must be to destroy their radio, which is located inside their truck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you possess a <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not possess this item, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You join with Rickenbacker in searching the clansman's body and deduce, from the tattoos of a big cat found on both his wrists, that he is a Puma clan member.</p>
- <p>'I wonder what he was doing here on his own?' muses Rickenbacker. 'I've no idea,' you reply, letting your eyes scan the surrounding campsite for a possible answer. You see nothing unusual, and it is not until you search inside the restaurant cabin that your question finds an answer. There you discover a store of foodstuffs, a secret hoard that the clansman had been keeping from his fellow clan members.</p>
- <p>'The colony sure are gonna appreciate this,' says Rickenbacker, as he reaches for his radio transceiver. The colony is delighted to hear about your discovery and, while you wait for them to arrive, you take the opportunity to search the rest of the cabin for useful items. Your search uncovers the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Machine Pistol (containing twelve rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Binoculars</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ></li>
- <li>Enough food for five Meals (separate from hoard)</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Rope</typ></li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cursing your luck, you return to the corridor. You find that the way ahead is now lit faintly by light from the room, enabling you to see that it is the next door along which is the entrance to the medicine storage facility.</p>
- <p>Expectantly you reach out for the handle but, as your hand closes around the steel lever you hear another noise, which makes you stop dead in your tracks. Coming from inside the storage room is a scuttling, scratching sound. Gently you depress the handle and open the door an inch or two, only to pull it shut quickly when you get a faint glimpse of what lurks inside. Thousands of cockroaches cover every surface in the store room, seething and undulating like some grotesque living carpet. It takes you several minutes to muster enough courage to open the door a second time, but before you do so, you take off your jacket and tuck your jeans into your boots to prevent the insects from crawling up your legs.</p>
- <p>As the door opens and the light trickles into the I room, the insects panic and come rushing towards you like a torrent of vile, brown water. Determinedly you meet this tidal wave and beat a path towards the table in the middle of the room. Using your jacket to clear away the surface, you climb on to it<ch.emdash/>a tiny island in the middle of a stormy, brown sea<ch.emdash/>and wait there until the cockroaches have dispersed into the corridor. When eventually the loathsome tide ebbs, you jump down from the table and begin your urgent search for Atropine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The uneven slope is making it difficult for the clansman to maintain his balance. Before he can steady himself sufficiently to take an aimed shot, you raise your own pistol, take a bead on his chest and quickly pull the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you inform your fellow judges of your decision and, after a brief consultation, Alice Yardum announces the verdict.</p>
- <p>'By the majority decision of this tribunal, we find Rex Tyler guilty of the murder of Michael Gorges in the first degree. This crime is a capital offence, punishable by death by firing squad. The sentence is to be carried out immediately.'</p>
- <p>Upon hearing the verdict, the surrounding colonists utter a sound that is full of shocked disbelief. Tyler's face turns green and he staggers back into the arms of the Tucson escorts. A lone voice in the crowd demands a re-trial, but it is ignored. Then another voice rings out, but this time it captures everyone's attention. It is Macy, the convoy's lookout, and he is screaming words that make the blood run cold.</p>
- <p>'The Outlaws are attacking!'</p>
- <p>Without warning, two grenades explode simultaneously in the town square and the chatter of machine gun fire echoes along the empty side streets. Screams of panic mingle with the dull booms of more explosions as the colonists rush to the vehicles to try to retrieve their weapons before it is too late. A burst of gunfire from a rooftop stitches a line of holes across the table and sends you and the other judges diving for cover. Suddenly everything is chaos; it's every man for himself. You grab your gun and scurry towards a garbage cart that lies overturned on the plaza. As you skid to a halt behind the cart, you find yourself face to face with Rex Tyler, the friend you have just sentenced to death. The confrontation is shocking, but it is the sight of the pistol that he is holding that really strikes terror in your heart.</p>
- <p>With a determined look in his eyes he raises the gun towards your head.</p>
- <p>'No, Rex, no!' you scream, and close your eyes as his finger snatches repeatedly at the trigger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having chosen to block the exit, Macy and Langdon wait patiently while you and Rickenbacker drive off the freeway and make a wide detour around the town. As soon as you are in position on the far side, they bring their Trans-sol to within fifty yards of the suspect clan car, halt, then rush forward on foot. You watch them disappear among the buildings, then less than a minute later, you hear gunfire and see three mean-looking clansmen come running into the main street, shouting and firing behind them as they scurry towards their vehicle.</p>
- <p>With tyres squealing, the car comes racing through the town, heading straight for the freeway ramp where you and your partner lie in wait.</p>
- <p>'Hey, these guys ain't gonna stop,' says Rickenbacker, as he climbs out of the passenger seat and takes cover behind the trunk.</p>
- <p>'Sure is rude to leave in such a hurry,' you reply. 'Guess we'll just have to teach 'em some manners.'</p>
- <p>The clan car is 200 yards away and closing fast when a machine pistol appears at the passenger window. Immediately you see a muzzle flash and a stream of bullets peppers the side of your car, making you duck your head involuntarily.</p>
- <p>'They're gonna ram us!' screams Rickenbacker. 'OK. Let 'em have it,' you shout, and as one, you and your partner stand up and take aim at the oncoming enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to aim at the car's windshield, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you choose to aim at the vehicle's front tyres, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With some difficulty you force open the front door and enter the gloomy general store. As you expected, it is stripped of food and practical items of hardware: this shop has long since been gutted of its stock by foraging clansmen.</p>
- <p>Half-heartedly you search amongst the debris that lies ankle-deep on the floor, but find nothing worth the trouble of stooping to pick up. Then you reach a store room at the rear, and are intrigued to discover that it has been bolted shut from the inside. A faint humming sound emanates from behind the door, a sound that sounds vaguely like that of an electric motor.</p>
- <p>Add together your Perception and Field Craft skill Scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If your total scores 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If your total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rickenbacker pulls the dead clansman off you and helps you up. When you are back on your feet, you look towards the bridge and see the bodies of the other clansmen lying in a tangled heap on the dirt road. They were all dispatched by your partner before they came within ten yards of the ditch.</p>
- <p>Together you walk back across the bridge to Cookie and the pick-up truck. The ex-clansman praises your bravery. In his estimation, taking on and defeating six angry Yuma Pumas is nothing short of heroic. Rickenbacker shrugs: 'All in a day's work, kid,' he says, and reaches nonchalantly for his radio transceiver.</p>
- <p>Within seconds he is in touch with the convoy and, almost casually, he reports that the bridge across the Gila River is now clear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the clansman's body into the back of the panel truck and make a quick search of his clothing.</p>
- <p>You uncover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol (containing ten rounds of 9mm ammunition)</li>
- <li>Club (2)</li>
- <li>Water Canteen</li>
- <li>Enough water for two Drinks</li>
- <li><typ class="item">Cigarette Lighter</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>As you are about to leave the panel truck, you hear a clansman calling out his partner's name. You wait with bated breath until the shouting ceases, then you hurry back to your roadster.</p>
- <p>The dust storm is still raging fiercely as you head back on to Highway 84. Your return to the intersection with Interstate 8 passes without incident and soon you are driving west once more towards Gila Bend. It is a difficult and frustrating drive, for you cannot shake the fear that Kate will have lapsed into a coma before your return with the Atropine, and yet you dare not increase your speed for fear of crashing off the freeway. The strain takes its toll<ch.emdash/>lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>During your return drive you must take a Drink or lose a further 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">To continue, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect313-1-foot" idref="sect313-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your dismay, your snap shot misses its intended target and punches a hole in the side of the bus, just a few inches to the left of the door.<a id="sect313-1" idref="sect313-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Undaunted, the clansman enters and quickly disappears from sight. Then you hear Kate scream as she catches sight of him. Her scream is quickly echoed by another, one that you recognize immediately as Aunt Betty-Ann's.</p>
- <p>You respond to their cries by leaping out from behind the garbage cart and running headlong towards the open door, oblivious to the bullets that are whistling past on all sides. As you reach the entrance, you almost throw yourself aboard the bus in your haste to prevent the clansman from harming the two women. As you regain your feet you see your aunt grappling with the thug in the centre aisle, her hands locked around the muzzle of his gun in a desperate attempt to prevent him from firing it.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You see your aunt grappling with the thug, her hands locked around the muzzle of his gun in a desperate attempt to prevent him from firing it.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="632" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="632" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The gun goes off, stitching a circle of holes in the roof, and your aunt is knocked backwards as the barrel is torn from her grasp. Before he can bring his gun to bear, you dive forward and drag the clansman crashing to the floor of the bus.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Fat Cat</enemy><enemy-attribute class="closecombatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cannot see him, but you feel certain that the clansman is hiding inside the playground hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you have a missile weapon, and wish to fire at the hut, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you do not possess a missile weapon, or do not wish to fire at the hut, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the sound of the explosion echoes for miles across the suburbs, you run as fast as you can towards the hole in the paint factory fence. You leap through and keep running, your eyes fixed straight ahead at a spot at the end of the street, where an anxious Rickenbacker is standing, waiting for you to show. He can see by the state of your clothing that you've had a lucky escape, and he rushes forward to help.</p>
- <p>'What the heck's happened to you?' he bellows, shouting in order to make himself heard above the roar of the fires.</p>
- <p>'Later<ch.ellips/>' you reply; 'I'll tell you later. First we gotta get away from here!'</p>
- <p>Together you make it back to the roadster in time to see Macy and Langdon's distress flare shoot into the cloudless sky above Interstate 8.</p>
- <p>'It's worked,' says Rickenbacker, relieved that your efforts have not been in vain. The convoy's on its way through.'</p>
- <p>'Yeah,' you reply, fighting to catch your breath, 'and that means the Outlaws are on their way here. It's time we were outta here!'</p>
- <p>A huge, billowing pall of dense, black smoke is rising into the sky above Arizona City, casting its shadow over the barren land ahead. Before long you have left behind the town's suburban sprawl and you find yourself making your escape westwards along an unmarked road that snakes towards the Santa Rosa Wash.</p>
- <p>The tiny town of Chuichu flashes past in the blink of an eye, and within a few minutes you arrive at a junction where once there were roads. Now no trace of them remains, save a signpost that indicates south to the town of Jackrabbit and west to the Santa Rosa bridge and a town called Cucklebur.</p>
- <p>You continue driving due west, across sun-baked soil littered with sagebrush and tumbleweed, until at last you reach the Santa Rosa bridge. It crosses the Santa Rosa Wash, a river that is now little more than a dried-up trench. The bridge is holed and impassable by vehicle, and although the Wash itself is bone-dry, its banks are too steeply undercut for you to attempt a crossing here.</p>
- <p>'We'll head north and cross as soon as we can,' you say, consulting your <a idref="map">map</a>. Rickenbacker is about to agree when suddenly he notices a cloud of dust approaching from the east. 'Bikes,' he hisses, 'Clan bikes. Must be the first of the Outlaws. Looks like they saw us leave Arizona City.'</p>
- <p>You stand up in your seat in order to get a better view of the approaching bikers, and count only two motorcycles. They are moving too fast to outrun them, leaving you with only two options: to hide or to fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to try to hide from these clansmen, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to stand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your group of defenders moves to intercept the raiding party, bursts of automatic fire kick up flurries of dust all around you. Their comrades are laying down a heavy covering fire, but it does not deter you from heading-off the raiding party's attempt to circle behind your position.</p>
- <p>When finally you reach the gravel road, you find yourself confronting the raiding party head-on and out in the open, where there is little or no cover. Instantly, your group finds itself in the middle of a desperate close-range firefight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting and Stealth skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If your total score is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If your total score 10-14, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If your total score is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The angry clansman is less than ten feet away when suddenly he stops and looks back at his partner, who has lost interest and is now moving away. The angry man curses him, to no obvious effect, then reluctantly shrugs his shoulders and follows in his tracks.</p>
- <p>You wait until both of them have disappeared from sight before you accelerate and continue along the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53"><link-text>Turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Can you see anything?' you shout.</p>
- <p>'Yeah,' replies Rickenbacker, a sweat caused by fear pouring down his face. 'Across the street. Cinema roof. Two bandits<ch.ellips/> maybe three. They've got assault rifles.'</p>
- <p>'Hell!' you growl, cursing the lapse of concentration that has landed you in this predicament. 'Pinned down with a flat <ch.ellips/> hell!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you possess a <typ class="item">CB Radio</typ>, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'We found this guy camped near the San Christobal Bridge,' says Langdon, as the Trans-sol glides to a halt beside your roadster.</p>
- <p>'He says he's on his way to San Francisco, would you believe?' comments Macy, as he gets out of the car with the man in tow.</p>
- <p>'What's your name?' you ask.</p>
- <p>'Brent Jaeger,' he replies, and tentatively he offers his hand in friendship. At first you hesitate, then you shake it, and at once the man seems to relax, as if a weight has been lifted from his shoulders.</p>
- <p>'For a minute there I thought you guys were clansmen,' he says. 'I thought my time was up.</p>
- <p>'Where you from?' you ask.</p>
- <p>'I've made my way up from Panama, mostly on foot. I've got blisters to prove it, too. I was working on the canal when HAVOC pulled the plug. I guess I was lucky, I found a safe zone in the jungle and waited there for spring to come around again. It's sure been a long time comm'n.'</p>
- <p>'Amen,' replies Langdon.</p>
- <p>'Since things have settled I've been making my way north. I'm lookin' to get back home to San Francisco.'</p>
- <p>'You're lucky you've got this far on your own,' you say.</p>
- <p>'There were three of us when we started out, but the heat and the clans did for my friends and now I'm the only one left. I'm gonna make it, if only for their sakes.'</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker offers him some water from his canteen and he accepts it gladly. 'I heard about the scene in California from some survivalists I stayed with for a while down in Alamos. Sounds like they've gone an' turned the state into one big fortress. The army's in charge and they've got things locked down tight. They've kicked all the troublemakers out into the desert and slammed the door. In the south, I hear they've drawn up a new state line, from Pine Valley to Banning. All the old roads in and out are guarded and I hear they've got real picky 'bout who they let in.'</p>
- <p>He reaches to the inside pocket of his tattered denim jacket and produces an equally tattered map. 'I plan on going in here,' he says, pointing to a part of the map that is so worn that it has become almost illegible. 'It's a place in the mountains, north of Lake Henshaw. I figure that the army can't have enough men to patrol that area too well. If you guys'd take my advice, you'd think 'bout doin' the same.'</p>
- <p>You tell Jaeger your own story of how you survived the post-holocaust years. You also tell him that you and the others are acting as scouts for a colony of people who are equally determined to reach California, only they are now so short of food and water that unless fresh supplies are found Soon, few of them are likely to survive the 400 miles that still separate you from the Pacific Ocean.</p>
- <p>'Man, you guys have got problems,' he says, shaking his head slowly from side to side. 'And you're headin' slap-bang into even more. Ain't you heard<ch.emdash/>Yuma is a clan base. And believe me, the guys that are holding that city are heavy-duty bad news. If you're thinkin' of crossing the Colorado River there, forget it. You'll never make it. They'll blow you off the road.'</p>
- <p>Worried by what Jaeger has said, and eager that he tell everything he knows about the clan base at Yuma, you ask him to return to the convoy with you. After some thought, he decides that there may, after all, be safety in numbers, and he agrees to join the colony. Anxious to get back, you climb into your roadster and set off on the return road to Aztec.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you climb the stairs to the observation platform and find Rickenbacker pointing east towards Devil's Canyon. You do not need binoculars to be able to see the long column of trucks that are racing along the freeway.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You do not need binoculars to be able to see the long column of trucks that are racing along the freeway.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <p>'Dammit! They must have eavesdropped on the radio conversation Pop just had with Pine Valley,' you say, your mind reeling at what could happen. 'I'd bet my last water ration that they're gonna try to destroy our colony and trick Pine Valley into letting them through the checkpoint instead.'</p>
- <p>An icy cold chill runs the length of your spine when you recognize the emblems that are emblazoned boldly on the sides of the vehicles. They are the lion's head motifs of the Detroit Lions clan. With eyes wide with fear, you focus on the leading vehicle. It is a speedster.</p>
- <p>'Oh my God!' you gasp. 'It's Mad Dog Michigan. He's still alive after all!' At once you turn and rush to the steps. 'C'mon Rick, we've gotta warn the others.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You join Kate and search for somewhere to take cover on the lower slopes of Round Mountain, close to the freeway, and, after a few minutes of searching, you find a good position. It is a hollow surrounded by small boulders, which commands a clear view of both the bridge and the railroad beneath it.</p>
- <p>Together you watch while Cutter, Avenal and Rickenbacker walk along the line of parked vehicles, dousing them liberally with gasolene tapped by hose directly from the tanker. When the tank is near empty, Cutter orders everyone to clear the area. Rickenbacker and Avenal just make it to cover on the far side of the freeway when the first of the clan scouts appears in the distance, emerging from the approach road to Devil's Canyon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is an eerie silence as you and Rickenbacker survey the tangled wreckage from the top of the freeway ramp. The bodies of the three clansmen lie where they fell on the embankment below. Although you look closely for some sign of life, there is none to be seen: all three were killed outright when they were hurled from their vehicles.</p>
- <p>Then the quiet is disturbed by the growl of a powerful car engine. You look towards the town and see the grey Trans-sol approaching the freeway, and you wave to reassure Macy and Langdon that you and your partner are OK. They wave back and then pull up alongside your roadster.</p>
- <p>'They were Outlaws all right,' says Macy, looking down at the remains of the clansman's car. 'That skull-'n'-crossbones scrawled on the driver's door is their mark, sure 'nough.'</p>
- <p>While the others go to investigate the wreckage and bury the dead clansmen, you stay with your roadster and check to make sure that all is well. When they return, they offer you a choice of items salvaged from the crash:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Knife (2)</li>
- <li>Five rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Antiseptic dressings (enough for one Medi-kit unit)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">To continue, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump out of the truck and look from one cabin to the next, hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive clansman. You see no one, but you do notice that all the cabin doors are closed and secured with padlocks. The clansman could not have entered the cabins, so he must have run behind them.</p>
- <p>You run along a paved passage between two of the cabins towards an area that was once used to cook barbecues. Several brick-built ranges are dotted around the area, beyond which you can see another log cabin. This one is larger than any of the others, and once served as a restaurant for the site.</p>
- <p>Add together your Perception and Field Craft skill scores.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If your total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor leads to a flight of stairs that descends to the X-ray department. The doors are open but the room itself is unlit. You peer into the darkened room and notice a faint light spilling into the unlit department through the window of a door on the far side of the room. A bank of light switches is located on the wall nearby.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to turn the lights on and search the X-ray department, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you choose to cross the darkened room and leave by the door opposite, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you decide to turn around, retrace your steps to the junction, and follow the corridor towards the administration offices, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect325-1-foot" idref="sect325-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim at the clansman's chest and pull the trigger. Your gunfire hits him squarely in the torso, the force of its impact knocking him flat on his back.<a id="sect325-1" idref="sect325-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He does not get up. Like a bounding lion, Rickenbacker hurries towards the ditch and leaps in to land by your side as the first of the dead clansman's confederates comes running across the bridge. Then there is a jarring boom as the truck explodes with a brilliant flash of bright orange flame.</p>
- <p>'What the heck<ch.ellips/> !' you gasp, stunned by the unexpected force of the explosion.</p>
- <p>'They had a keg of blasting powder in the back,' cries Rickenbacker, shouting to make himself heard above the rumbling echo of the explosion. 'So I lit the fuse!'</p>
- <p>As the dust clears, the clansmen struggle to their feet and run towards the blazing remains of their truck. As they get nearer, you grit your teeth and prepare to open fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'I tell you he's bluffing,' says Rickenbacker. 'C'mon Cal, let's take him.'</p>
- <p>'OK,' you reply, 'only don't hurt the dude unless he makes a bad move, all right.'</p>
- <p>'All right,' says Rickenbacker, and starts to move. You ease yourself out of the driving seat and take cover with your partner behind the trunk of the car.</p>
- <p>'You go left,' you whisper, 'and I'll go right. Circle him, OK?'</p>
- <p>'OK,' comes Rickenbacker's terse reply, and then he scurries off, using the scrub to cover his approach to the bridge.</p>
- <p>You adopt the same tactic and close in on the bridge until you can see the man clearly. He is crouching close to the tent, his thin, bearded face twitching and awash with sweat. Then he catches sight of Rickenbacker and he panics', throwing down his shotgun and taking off across the bridge at a run. You chase after him and bring him down near the middle of the bridge with a tackle that once would have earned you a try-out with the LA Raiders. It slams him to the ground and empties the air from his lungs.</p>
- <p>'Don't <ch.ellips/> hurt <ch.ellips/> me <ch.ellips/>' he gasps.</p>
- <p>'I'm not gonna hurt you, bud,' you reply, and pull him to his feet. As you are bringing him back across the bridge, Rickenbacker approaches from the dry undergrowth.</p>
- <p>'OK, wise guy,' he says, pretending to be angry, 'who are you and what are you doin' here?'</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the highway for a quarter of a mile until you come to a junction. Directly ahead you see a large building with a sign that says:</p>
- <signpost>AJO FIRE STATION</signpost>
- <signpost>PIMA COUNTY</signpost>
- <p>You feel sure that the local fire department would have a map of the local area, so you drive on to the forecourt and park near the main door. Covering your face against the stinging wind, you leave your roadster and run towards the building. Inside the lobby, bathed in the light from your vehicle's headlamps, you find a laminated town map fixed to the counter. You grab a pen lying nearby and hurriedly note directions to the hospital on the back of your left hand.</p>
- <p>As you turn to leave you notice an open door off to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to search the room beyond the door, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you decide to ignore it and return directly to your roadster, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect328-1-foot" idref="sect328-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your gunfire misses its intended target, but wounds one of the scouts following closely behind.<a id="sect328-1" idref="sect328-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The clansman you missed stops in mid-stride and raises his weapon to his shoulder: this time he intends to make sure his bullets hit you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to fire again, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to duck into the hollow to avoid being hit by the clansman's fire, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a consummate display of driving skill, you brake heavily and spin the wheel hard over to the right to bring the roadster around in a screeching 180-degree turn. Then, the instant you are pointing in the opposite direction, you press the gas pedal to the floor and accelerate away. Your quick thinking and skilled driving have saved you from crashing into a wall of rock and from the rain of boulders that are now smashing down on to the highway.</p>
- <p>As you put your foot down and speed away from the rockfall without injury, you thank Cutter Jacks for having had the patience and foresight to teach you this difficult manoeuvre.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are only a few yards away from the truck when inadvertently you step on a prickly cactus leaf. One of the spines pierces the sole of your boot and skewers your foot: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you fall to the ground, clutching your injured foot, the pain is so acute that you cannot stifle the urge to scream. Instantly the clansmen stop talking among themselves and turn to look in your direction. At first they dismiss the sound, then one of them stands up and comes walking towards you.</p>
- <p>Panic grips you. Fearing that you have been discovered, you pull the pin and hurl the grenade at the clansmen's truck.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Perception skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If your total score is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If your total score is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the traitor exhales his last breath and falls dead on the ground by your side, Rickenbacker and Cutter come running across the plaza and take cover with you behind the garbage cart. Quickly you tell them how Barlow attacked you, and how you are now absolutely convinced that he was guilty.</p>
- <p>'You're right,' says Cutter, glancing down at Barlow's body. 'He must have been a clan infiltrator. I'd hazard a guess that this attack is an effort by the Outlaw's t' get him out o' here.'</p>
- <p>'Well they've got here too late,' you reply. 'His sentence has already been served in full.'</p>
- <p>From behind the metal lip of the garbage cart you survey the battle that is raging around the plaza. Most of the colonists have now armed themselves and taken cover, and they are putting up a worthy defence of the vehicles. The few clansmen you do see are either dead or attempting to escape from the town. All, that is, apart from one. He is a blond-haired thug, dressed in a studded leather vest and striped pants, who is busy hammering at the glass door panels of the DC1 school bus with the stock of his machine pistol. The sight of him senselessly attacking the door of the empty bus does not bother you unduly until you remember that there is one person still on board the bus<ch.emdash/>Kate<ch.emdash/>and your heart nearly stops with shock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to open fire at the clansman before he gains entry to the bus, and are able to do so, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you do not wish to open fire at the clansman, or are unable to do so, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The light flickers on and off as the dust-laden wind gusts along the main street of the town. Slowly you drive forward, your eyes straining to identify the source of the light, when suddenly two men appear in front of you, caught in the glare of your headlights. Their faces are covered with leather riding masks, but the skull-and-crossbones emblems emblazoned on their jackets leave you in no doubt as to their identity: they are Outlaw clansmen.</p>
- <p>Startled by the lights, they stand frozen before you in the middle of the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to halt your roadster, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you decide to accelerate your car straight at them, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land heavily on the broken roadway with your arms outstretched, hoping to find something to cling to, but the impact of your landing numbs your hands and you are unable to prevent yourself from slipping backwards over the edge. With a terrified scream, you fall more than 100 feet into the Colorado River, and hit the half-submerged trunk of your roadster.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your journey and your life end here at the California state line.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck your head under cover as a second burst of fire from the doorway sends bullets thudding into the side of the car. Rickenbacker remains standing, seemingly unperturbed by the danger as angrily he works the bolt of his gun back and forth. Cursing, he slams the mechanism against the front of the car and, to his surprise, the sudden impact is just what is needed to dislodge the faulty shell.</p>
- <p>With a vengeful laugh, he snatches the gun to his shoulder and squeezes off a long burst of fire that leaves the clansman slumped in the doorway. As he stops to reload, you hear running footsteps above and behind you. You turn in time to see two clansmen rushing to take up firing positions on the roof of a nearby bank. You shout a warning and Rickenbacker spins around to face the threat. There is no time to take aim: he must trust to his senses if he is to survive this confrontation. Firing on instinct, he sprays the parapet of the roof with bullets and catches the two clansmen before they have you in their sights. With gurgling screams they tumble from the rooftop and crash on to the street below.</p>
- <p>'Are you OK?' asks Rickenbacker with some urgency, as he kneels by your side.</p>
- <p>'Sure, I'm fine,' you reply uneasily, feeling embarrassed that you let him tackle the enemy single-handedly.</p>
- <p>'I thought you'd been hit,' he says. 'You sure you're OK?'</p>
- <p>'Sure, I'm sure.'</p>
- <p>'Mmm, all right then,' he muses. 'I guess we'd better check out the bodies, jus' t'make sure they're Outlaws.' You nod in agreement and follow as he walks across the street towards the fallen clansmen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is not enough time for you to search the clan truck thoroughly, but you do discover, lying on the dashboard, a Pistol (containing fourteen rounds of 9mm ammunition), a can of beans (enough for one Meal), and a <typ class="item">HE Grenade</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Once more the sound of gunfire can be heard coming from the roof of the cinema. Concerned for Rickenbacker's safety, you leave the truck and start your climb up the fire-escape ladder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment your rifle is in position, you look along the barrel to see that the blond-haired thug is already half-way up the short flight of steps that ascends into the bus. Immediately you pull the trigger, hoping to catch him before he disappears from sight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Shooting skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total score is 10 or less, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect337-1-foot" idref="sect337-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly, you arrive at the medicine storage facility. The elation you feel at having found it so quickly is dampened when you switch on the lights and take stock of your surroundings. Tens of thousands of bottles and containers line the shelves and, to make matters worse, you soon discover that all the drugs classified as poisonous or under FDA control are locked away in a vault-like room, protected by a steel door and a sophisticated combination lock. It could take you a week to search the shelves, and considerably longer to force open the vault door.</p>
- <p>Hoping to get lucky, you search through the store's card index system, looking for the Atropine listing. You find it, but your worse fears are confirmed when you see that the stock records are printed on a red card. Atropine is classified as a poison and is therefore kept locked away inside the vault.</p>
- <p>With dread, you examine the combination lock. It is an electronic device, consisting of three groups of three numbers, each group arranged in the shape of an 'L'. One of the numbers in the last group is missing. When the correct number is tapped in here, it completes the sequence and releases the lock. Consider the following numbers carefully. When you think you know the missing number, turn to the entry that bears the same number as your answer.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you cannot solve the security code, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull over to the side of the road and Rickenbacker radios to the convoy, instructing it to stop and stand by. You focus your eyes on the distant junction, and begin to make out the shape of people. They are standing on the highway, either singly or in groups, but they do not appear to be doing anything in particular. When they do move it is with such lethargy that, from this distance, they resemble a colony of shambling zombies.</p>
- <p>'I don't like the look of this,' you say to your partner. 'Radio the convoy and get them to put Cookie on. Maybe he knows something about these wierdos.'</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker complies with your request and, within a minute or so, you are talking to Cookie person-to-person. 'Sounds like you've run across a pack of Crazies,' says Cookie, after listening to your description of the people at the junction. 'They're mainly junkies and street-scum that the army have kicked outta LA and San Francisco. They're usually pretty harmless, but watch y'selves. You never can tell what Crazies'll get up to.'</p>
- <p>You thank Cookie for the advice and sign off by telling the convoy that you and Rickenbacker are on your way back. You are about to reach for the ignition when you hear a movement away to your right. You turn your head and see three Crazies<ch.emdash/>two men and a woman<ch.emdash/>emerge from the scrub and scurry towards the truck. Despite their frightening appearance, you notice that none of them appears to be armed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to start the truck and drive away, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to stop and question them, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You need to follow the course of the Santa Rosa Wash for only half a mile before you find an ideal place to cross. It is close to the town of Cucklebur, a settlement that was home to the Papago Indians before 'The Day'. As you drive through the town, the beginnings of a hot, northwesterly wind sweeps across the land, and you notice a dark storm cloud streaking the sky. You pray that it is the prelude to a rainstorm, for it has not rained in these parts for more than a year, but your experience and your senses tell you otherwise.</p>
- <p>'There's a dust storm brewin', dare say it's blowin' down from the Nevada desert,' you say, motioning to the north.</p>
- <p>'Looks like it could be a mean 'un,' replies Rickenbacker, as he stares thoughtfully at the gathering cloud. 'A real mean 'un.'</p>
- <p>By the time you rejoin Interstate 8, the weather has greatly deteriorated. Carried on a high wind come swirling, stinging eddies of rust-red sand, some as tall as five-storey buildings. They move across the landscape like spinning tops, sucking in and spewing out tons of dust, rock and debris every second of their short but violent lives. So great has the dust saturation become that even though it is still only late afternoon, you are forced to switch on your headlights in order to make out the road ahead.</p>
- <p>Out of this wall of dust a mileage sign appears, which says:</p>
- <signpost>GILA BEND<ch.emdash/>44 miles</signpost>
- <p>It is nearly an hour before you see another sign. This one announces a rest stop one mile ahead on the freeway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to stop at this freeway service area, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you decide to continue driving through the dust storm towards Gila Bend, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first of the convoy vehicles draws up as you and your captive arrive back at the roadster. Rickenbacker notices the cords binding the clansman's hands and comments on your thoroughness.</p>
- <p>'Neat job you did there, Cal.'</p>
- <p>'Not really. He was already trussed-up like that when I found him,' you reply.</p>
- <p>Then Cutter and a handful of colonists disembark and come over to take a look at your prisoner. Readily he answers their questions, and seems genuinely eager to appease them. You discover that his name is Cookie. He says that he was trying to escape from Yuma and that the other two men, who ambushed you from the roof of the cinema, were scouts from a clan called the Pumas who control that city. Cookie says he was running east in the hope of finding a colony to join. The scouts were sent to capture him and take him back to Yuma where the Pumas' leader, whose name is Pentagon, intended to execute him. It was to serve as a warning to the other members of his clan.</p>
- <p>'If you're so keen to get away from the Pumas,' says Rickenbacker, 'why the hell did you join with 'em in the first place?'</p>
- <p>Cookie says that he was exiled from California four months ago, after being caught by an army patrol while he was looting food from a derelict store in downtown LA. 'I joined the Pumas 'cause I had to. It was either that or starve to death in the desert.' He says that he knows the surrounding area well, and offers to help the colony if you agree to take him with you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly the remaining colonists return to the convoy vehicles and begin to leave. Meanwhile, Cutter gathers about him all those who have volunteered to stay and fight. Using a map, and with minutes to spare before Mad Dog's clansmen are expected to show up, he sketches his plan of action.</p>
- <p>Cutter decides that the best place to delay the enemy is at a railroad bridge, located six miles west along Interstate 8 at a place called Round Mountain. Using the DC1 tanker, which is still laden with over 2,000 gallons of gasolene, and a handful of smaller vehicles, Cutter plans to block both freeway lanes and then set fire to the tanker, turning the road block into a blazing barricade.</p>
- <p>With the rear-guard volunteers in position on either side of the freeway, some on the slopes of Round Mountain and a few holding the high ground directly opposite, overlooking the bridge, he is confident that you will be able to hold back Mad Dog's clan long enough for the convoy to reach the safety of Pine Valley.</p>
- <p>Once everyone has been briefed, and is aware of the part they are expected to play in this desperate action, the last of the spare weapons and ammunition are distributed among you. You may choose to replenish your supply from the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pistol</li>
- <li>Rifle</li>
- <li>Five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Eighteen rounds of 9mm ammunition</li>
- <li>Three rounds of 12-gauge ammunition</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a> and/or Ammo Pouch accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">To continue, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the schoolbus to find your aunt sitting by Kate's side. She is holding her wrist, as if monitoring her pulse, and her face is tense and lined with worry. Kate's face is deathly pale. She is no longer perspiring and her breathing is almost imperceptible.</p>
- <p>'Where have you been, Cal?' asks your aunt, in a tone of voice that reminds you immediately of your mother's. You reply simply by handing her the tub of Atropine tablets.</p>
- <p>'How did you get<ch.ellips/> ?' she gasps, then at once her look of surprise changes to one of intense concentration.</p>
- <p>'I went to-' you start, but your aunt cuts you off. 'No never mind now,' she says, tersely. 'There isn't time for explanations. Kate's slipping away. We must be quick if we're to save her.'</p>
- <p>Swiftly your aunt prepares an Atropine solution, using the tablets and some boiled water, and carefully she pours it, drop by drop, into Kate's mouth. 'You go and get yourself some rest,' she says. 'You've earned it. There's nothing more you can do here. We'll know in the morning if she's going to pull through.'</p>
- <p>Aching with fatigue, you leave the bus and find shelter in a derelict boarding house nearby. There you find a bed with blankets and settle down to some much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The choking fumes swirl around your body as you race up the iron staircase. You reach the top in a matter of seconds, but already the heat from the blaze is becoming intolerable. You feel your skin tightening and your throat and nostrils seizing up. Desperately you kick open the door and throw yourself into the office beyond it. At that moment, a huge explosion rocks the building and you are sent sprawling to the floor. Dazed by the blast and weakened by the heat and toxic fumes, you stagger to your feet and stumble drunkenly towards another door. As if in answer to your prayers, this one is marked 'FIRE EXIT'.</p>
- <p>With trembling hands you reach out to push the locking bar, but, to your horror, you find that it is chained and padlocked shut!</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Field Craft skill score. If you possess a <typ class="item">Flexible Saw</typ>, <typ class="item">Bolt Cutters</typ>, or <typ class="item">Wire Cutters</typ>, add a further 3 points of your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If your total score is now 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stop near the service bay and leave your engine running while you investigate the office of the gas station. A wire rack full of age-yellowed maps looks promising, but all it contains are Arizona road maps and tourist route planners. You rifle the drawers of the office cabinets and, although you find no town map, you do discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><typ class="item">Solar Torch</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Tool Kit</typ></li>
- <li><typ class="item">Bolt Cutters</typ></li>
- </ul>
- <p>As you turn to leave, you notice a town map pasted to the back of the door by which you entered. Your spirits rise when you see that the hospital is just one block east along Highway 84.</p>
- <p>At last your luck seems to have changed for the better. You climb back into your car and drive for less than a minute before the entrance of the Casa Grande General Hospital appears on your right. Expectantly you enter the grounds and park your car among the rows of derelict autos that fill the front lot. The main entrance lobby is lit by fluorescent light, so you decide to enter by a side door in case the hospital is occupied by clansmen.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you follow a dimly lit corridor that echoes with the mesmeric hum of a generator running somewhere on a lower level of the building. The corridor is well signposted but none indicates the location of the medicine storage facility. At length you reach a junction and are faced with a choice of turning left towards the X-ray department, or turning right towards the administration offices.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to follow the corridor to the left, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you choose to follow the corridor to the right, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect345-1-foot" idref="sect345-1">
- <p>Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire and almost immediately you see the clansman throw his hands in the air and fall forward stiffly to the ground.<a id="sect345-1" idref="sect345-1-foot" class="footnote" /> For a few moments his limbs move jerkily, then his whole body relaxes as it surrenders to death.</p>
- <p>Rickenbacker appears at the edge of the barbecue area, drawn by the sound of gunfire. His face is lined with worry until he sees that you are still standing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recoil in shocked surprise, but your reactions are too slow to avoid the snake's vicious attack. Its curved fangs pierce the side of your neck and inject their deadly venom before you have pulled away from the shelf. Clutching at the wound, you sink to your knees in agony.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it the number of Medi-kit units you currently possess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If your total score is now 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If your total score is now 13 or more, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the dust and debris have finally settled, you see that the clansman did not survive the blast: his body lies a few yards from the blazing wreck, stiff and lifeless. To your left you can see Rickenbacker and Cookie running towards the bridge after completing their part of the plan successfully. You call to them and they are relieved to see that it was not you who perished in the explosion. You rejoin them and together you return to the pick-up to report that the bridge across the Gila River is now clear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismiss the reflection and concentrate on the road ahead, but you have only travelled a few hundred yards when a rumbling noise, like the sound of distant thunder, draws your eyes away to the right. In horror you look up to see great cracks appearing in the outcrop. Suddenly a whole section gives way and hundreds of tons of rock tumble down the mountainside. You are driving into the path of a massive landslide.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Hundreds of tons of rock tumble down the mountainside. You are driving into the path of a massive landslide.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="625" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="625" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Huge boulders come smashing down on to the highway as desperately you fight to turn your roadster around and escape before you are crushed to death.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it your Driving skill score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If your total is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If your total is 8-10, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If your total is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Scrambling to your feet, you take off your jacket and use it to beat a path towards a table in the middle of the storage room. Once there, you climb on to the table<ch.emdash/>a tiny island in the middle of a stormy brown sea<ch.emdash/>and wait until the cockroach swarm disperses into the corridor outside.</p>
- <p>When eventually the loathsome tide ebbs, you jump down from the table and begin your urgent search for Atropine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gasping for breath, you step back from Mad Dog's lifeless body and turn around to give what help you can to your friends. You are saddened to see that Langdon is beyond help: he took the full force of the blast that blew open the lodge door, and must have died instantly. For a moment you fear that all the others have suffered a similar fate, but your panic soon passes when you check them out one by one. Kate is the first to regain her feet. She has just managed to stand when she sees Mad Dog lying dead on the floor, and almost swoons. You support her and hold on to her until the dizziness passes. 'At last,' she says, looking down at the HAVOC leader's face. 'The nightmare is finally over.'</p>
- <p>'Not completely,' says Cutter, wiping away a trickle of blood from his brow. 'That's right,' interjects Rickenbacker. 'We've still got to get to Pine Valley.'</p>
- <p>Outside you find a pick-up truck. It was the vehicle Mad Dog used to reach the lodge ahead of his clansmen. Now these Detroit Lions cannot be too far away, and they have been reinforced by an additional contingent of Chargers. Quickly the four of you jump into the truck and head west, driving cross-country until you rejoin the freeway near a small town called Boulevard.</p>
- <p>During your escape, Cutter makes radio contact with Pine Valley and tells them that you are on your way. He also warns them that you have a clan army hot on your heels. 'Don't worry 'bout them,' comes the reply. 'We've got a little surprise in store for those guys. You just keep your foot down and don't stop for nothing, y'hear?'</p>
- <p>All of you are puzzled by the message, then, as you reach a high peak called Crestwood Summit, you hear the roar of a jet engine, approaching from out of the western sky. It is a fighter aircraft, and Kate is the first to see it as it skims the top of Long Valley Peak and comes screaming towards you, tracking along the line of Interstate 8.</p>
- <p>Captain Ed Hughes makes a mental note of his air speed and altitude, and realigns his F-14 Tomcat ready for a strike. His is the last serviceable fighter of the VF213 Blacklions squadron left at the Miramar Naval Air Station, and he is proud to have been the one called upon to fly this ageing but deadly combat machine on what could be its last mission. The target appears in the distance and, automatically, Hughes arms his sidewinders and locks-on his targeting computer. He is seconds away from contact. A last radio check confirms that the target is valid and, with an almost casual ease, he depresses the twin red fire buttons and sends his missiles screaming towards the line of clan vehicles. By the time they have struck and destroyed the clan column, he has already banked out of his dive and is heading west, above the Sawtooth Mountains, on a bearing that will take him back to his base at NAS Miramar<ch.emdash/>Fightertown USA.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The sound of the F14's attack hits you like a clap of thunder behind the ears. There is a massive explosion, followed by a long and heavy rumble that echoes for minutes among the surrounding peaks. The suddenness and awesome power of the strike leaves all four of you stunned into open-mouthed silence, and it is not until you reach Pine Valley, and see your fellow colonists waiting expectantly beyond the fenced checkpoint, that you recover your senses fully and comprehend what has happened. You have survived the journey of a lifetime and, at last, you have reached your goal.</p>
- <p>Following your reunion with your fellow colonists, you are escorted by the army to the US Naval Hospital in San Diego, where those who require it receive expert medical attention. News of your daring journey spreads quickly, and many hundreds of San Diegans besiege the hospital for a glimpse of those who have come out of the Omega Zone, a region where no civilized man was thought capable of surviving for more than a few weeks.</p>
- <p>It is not long before the full account of the hardships and perils you have faced are coaxed out of your fellow colonists by the news-hungry Californian populace. Within a few days you discover that your personal exploits have made you quite a hero in their eyes, especially when it is revealed that you were born and raised in California. Your reputation is further glorified when the full story of your love for Kate Norton is told, and of how you saved her from the clutches of a despised HAVOC leader against all odds.</p>
- <p>The army and the civil leaders stage a special ceremony in honour of the indefatigable spirit that you and your colony displayed during your exodus. News of the ceremony comes as an unexpected surprise, yet there is an even greater surprise awaiting you. At the end of the grand ceremony, you are reunited with your family, all of whom have survived the post-holocaust years. It is a joyous and emotional reunion, the memory of which you will cherish for the rest of your life.</p>
- <p>For you, Cal Phoenix, the journey is over. You have triumphed where most would have failed, and by doing so, you have earned yourself a special place in the history of America.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Map Of Southern Arizona/California</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acskills.gif" width="386" height="123" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="308" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="accombat.gif" width="386" height="358" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acammo.gif" width="386" height="363" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Iain Smith</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acweapns.gif" width="386" height="383" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-<!--
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
--->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Close Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add to your <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> any extra points gained through use of a close combat weapon.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</typ> score of your enemy from your total. The resulting number is the Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random"><a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio along the top of the chart and cross-reference it with the random number you have picked. (E indicates enemy's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. CP indicates Cal Phoenix's loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from stage 3 until one combatant has zero or fewer <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, this is when he is declared dead.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>If the text offers the chance of taking evasive action instead of entering into combat, you may evade in the first round of combat or in any subsequent round.</li>
- <li>If you decide to evade after a round of combat, ignore all points lost by the enemy in that round: only Cal Phoenix loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="dtd">Dateline to Disaster</a>) Replaced <quote>training and</quote> with <quote>training, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>re-establish</quote> with <quote>reestablish</quote>, <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>, <quote>fuel, food or water</quote> with <quote>fuel, food, or water</quote>, and <quote>the Mavericks</quote> with <quote>the 'Mavericks'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>if you pick a O</quote> with <quote>if you pick a 0</quote>, <quote>On pages 6 and 7 you will find an Action Chart</quote> with <quote>An Action Chart has been supplied</quote>, <quote>the Random Number Table at the back of this book</quote> with <quote>the Random Number Table</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote>survival skills</quote> with <quote>Survival Skills</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>For ease of use during play it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>potassium iodine</quote> with <quote>potassium iodide</quote> and <quote>sulphonamides</quote> with <quote>sulfonamides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>zero</quote> with <quote>zero or below</quote>, and <quote><ch.plus/> 1) He</quote> with <quote><ch.plus/>1). He</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>are reduced to zero, at which point the one whose score is zero is declared dead.</quote> with <quote>are reduced to zero or below, at which point that combatant is declared dead.</quote> and <quote>with a reduced ENDURANCE point score</quote> with <quote>with his ENDURANCE points possibly reduced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Close Combat Rules</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>south-west</quote> with <quote>southwest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>inflamations</quote> with <quote>inflammation</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>Micheal</quote> with <quote>Michael</quote>, <quote>swifty</quote> with <quote>swiftly</quote> and <quote>machine gunfire</quote> with <quote>machine gun fire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>storerooms</quote> with <quote>store rooms</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>1 Pistol</quote> with <quote>One Pistol</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>moutains</quote> with <quote>mountains</quote> and <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>Swifty</quote> with <quote>Swiftly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>south-east</quote> with <quote>southeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>youself</quote> with <quote>yourself</quote> and <quote>blood stains</quote> with <quote>bloodstains</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced <quote>ammuntion</quote> with <quote>ammunition</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>your Strength skill</quote> with <quote>your Stealth skill</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Added missing period after <quote>turn to 295</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>Backpack items</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Replaced <quote>Micheal</quote> with <quote>Michael</quote> and <quote>machine gunfire</quote> with <quote>machine gun fire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>you say, frustratedly.</quote> with <quote>you say in frustration.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>examing</quote> with <quote>examining</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>gullys</quote> with <quote>gullies</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>gunsmoke</quote> with <quote>gun smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) Replaced <quote>suddeness</quote> with <quote>suddenness</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>syphon</quote> with <quote>siphon</quote> and added missing period after <quote>creaks into action</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Replaced <quote>insepction</quote> with <quote>inspection</quote> and <quote>Landcrusier</quote> with <quote>Landcruiser</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) Replaced <quote>clanmen's</quote> with <quote>clansmen's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Replaced <quote>gullys</quote> with <quote>gullies</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect238">238</a>) Replaced <quote>zig-zags</quote> with <quote>zigzags</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>Jeager</quote> with <quote>Jaeger</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>iginitng</quote> with <quote>igniting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>Consult the map at the front of the book</quote> with <quote>Consult your map</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Removed duplicate <quote>seat.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">290</a>) Replaced <quote>distant poppings</quote> with <quote>distant popping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>HE Granade</quote> with <quote>HE Grenade</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Added bold formatting <quote>Solar Torch</quote>, <quote>Binoculars</quote> and <quote>Rope</quote>. Removed bold formatting <quote>Water Canteen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>Cuckelbur</quote> with <quote>Cucklebur</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>machine gunfire</quote> with <quote>machine gun fire</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>accorindly</quote> with <quote>accordingly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>turn 281</quote> with <quote>turn to 281</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Replaced <quote>north-westerly</quote> with <quote>northwesterly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>,<a idref="sect1">1</a>,<a idref="sect2">2</a>,<a idref="sect200">200</a>,<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Replaced <quote>'the Day'</quote> with <quote>'The Day'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>,<a idref="sect66">66</a>,<a idref="sect182">182</a>,<a idref="sect199">199</a>,<a idref="sect229">229</a>,<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Replaced <quote>shockwave</quote> with <quote>shock wave</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>,<a idref="sect225">225</a>,<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>painkillers</quote> with <quote>pain killers</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect41">41</a>,<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>floorplan</quote> with <quote>floor plan</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>,<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>storeroom</quote> with <quote>store room</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross-refer</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>, <quote>Combat Results Table</quote> with <quote>Close Combat Results Table</quote>, and <quote>zero ENDURANCE points</quote> with <quote>zero ENDURANCE points or below</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4-1-foot">4</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25-1-foot">25</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28-1-foot">28</a>) This is the correct answer to the keypad puzzle in <a idref="sect337">Section 337</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33-1-foot">33</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37-1-foot">37</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46-1-foot">46</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect78-1-foot">78</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94-1-foot">94</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95-1-foot">95</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98-1-foot">98</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113-1-foot">113</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122-1-foot">122</a>) Remember to deduct six rounds of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132-1-foot">132</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143-1-foot">143</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect178-1-foot">178</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182-1-foot">182</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186-1-foot">186</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191-1-foot">191</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192-1-foot">192</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193-1-foot">193</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194-1-foot">194</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect199-1-foot">199</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 7.62mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205-1-foot">205</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222-1-foot">222</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233-1-foot">233</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255-1-foot">255</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264-1-foot">264</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268-1-foot">268</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 12-gauge ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271-1-foot">271</a>) Remember to deduct a round of 9mm ammunition from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275-1-foot">275</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285-1-foot">285</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294-1-foot">294</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313-1-foot">313</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325-1-foot">325</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328-1-foot">328</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337-1-foot">337</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345-1-foot">345</a>) Remember to deduct the relevant number of rounds from your Ammo Pouch.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect5">Section 5</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect24">Section 24</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect31">Section 31</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect57">Section 57</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect84">Section 84</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect100">Section 100</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect140">Section 140</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect154">Section 154</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect159">Section 159</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect169">Section 169</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect180">Section 180</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect203">Section 203</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect225">Section 225</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect231">Section 231</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect250">Section 250</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect283">Section 283</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect290">Section 290</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect313">Section 313</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect320">Section 320</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect348">Section 348</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Map Of Southern Arizona/California</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
-<!--
- <li><a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect339">339</a></li>
--->
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
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-Revision 1.11 2007/05/12 18:00:47 jonathan.blake
-minor errata list issue
-
-Revision 1.10 2007/05/11 23:28:05 jonathan.blake
-Fixed illustration dimensions
-
-Revision 1.9 2007/05/10 23:24:50 jonathan.blake
-Final (I mean it this time) changes prior to republication
-
-Revision 1.8 2007/05/07 23:34:55 jonathan.blake
-minor illustration dimension fix
-
-Revision 1.7 2007/05/07 22:54:18 jonathan.blake
-special thanks and fixing illustration dimensions
-
-Revision 1.6 2007/04/26 17:34:28 jonathan.blake
-Last of errata from website
-
-Revision 1.5 2007/04/24 00:07:49 jonathan.blake
-making most of errata corrections listed on website
-
-Revision 1.4 2007/03/17 00:07:04 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:11 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.8 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
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-Revision 1.7 2003/01/04 17:45:26 jblake
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-Revision 1.5 2002/12/08 01:37:53 jblake
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-Revision 1.3 2002/12/04 06:23:01 jblake
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-Revision 1.2 2002/11/30 02:12:27 jblake
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-Revision 1.1 2002/11/26 17:00:00 cporter
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-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>The Chasm of Doom</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.gary.chalk.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2007</year><month>5</month><day>11</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>The King has summoned you, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords, to his citadel at Holmgard. Your quest is to recover a missing shipment of gold and locate the patrol which has disappeared while investigating the suspected theft. As you and your men equip yourselves for the long ride ahead, you glimpse a crow perched on a window ledge high above. As it flies away a shiver runs down your spine<ch.emdash/>in Holmgard the crow is a symbol of impending danger.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1985 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever. Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
-<section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">For Bryan Ansell, Rick Priestley and Richard Halliwell</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-<section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
-
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Daniel Nash</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Paul Haskell<br/>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Charles Porter</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Michael Hahn (map)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne (Sections 1<ch.endash/>105, 176<ch.endash/>210, 281<ch.endash/>350)<br />Vito Trifilo (Sections 106<ch.endash/>175, 246<ch.endash/>280)<br />Tony Wrigley (Sections 211<ch.endash/>245)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Kl<ch.ouml/>cker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br />Matthew Reynolds<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Dan Boulton, Kayvohn Kazemi, Ryan Marshall</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ruanon is a remote mining province to the south of your homeland, Sommerlund. Nestling between the sullen peaks of the Durncrag and Maaken mountains, the people of this province have long prospered from their toil in the ore-rich mines, living and enjoying their wealth under the protection of their lord<ch.emdash/>Baron Vanalund.</p>
- <p>The gold and gems that are mined at Ruanon yield an important source of revenue to your homeland. The heavily guarded convoy of wagons that leave the province and journey to the capital has become a regular monthly routine; a routine that had never been broken until one month ago when, suddenly, all contact with Ruanon ceased. A troop of one hundred cavalry from the King<ch.apos/>s Guard were immediately despatched to investigate the whereabouts of the missing convoy. Their commanding officer, Captain D<ch.apos/>Val was ordered to report back to the King as soon as contact was made, but he and his men have not returned: they too have disappeared without trace.</p>
- <p>The King has summoned you, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords, to his citadel at Holmgard. Your quest is to find Captain D<ch.apos/>Val and his men, discover what has happened to the missing convoy, and to uncover the veil of mystery that now hangs over Ruanon. The King has gathered a company of border rangers, a unit of <ch.eacute/>lite scouts, all of whom are skilled in horsemanship and outdoor survival. He has ordered these fifty men to accompany you in the hope that, with your leadership, they may succeed where the larger and more visible force failed.</p>
- <p>As you and your men enter the Royal Armoury to equip yourselves for the long ride ahead, you glimpse a black crow perched on a window ledge high above. It flies away, but not before a shiver has run down your spine: in Holmgard, the crow is a bird of ill omen.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord you have developed fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it <!--ERRTAG-RE-8413-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-8413--> the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> on the last page of this book. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points <!--ERRTAG-RE-10187-->fall to zero or below<!--/ERRTAG-RE-10187-->, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you will already have your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and Kai Disciplines which you can now carry over with you to Book 4. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items that you held at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You may choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Kai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf adventure you have successfully completed; then read the <a idref="equipmnt">section on equipment</a> for Book 4 carefully.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over the centuries, the Kai monks have mastered the skills of the warrior. These skills are known as the Kai Disciplines, and they are taught to all Kai Lords. You are a Kai initiate which means that you have learnt only five of the skills listed below. The choice of which five skills these are, is for you to make. As all of the Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your perilous quest, pick your five with care. The correct use of a Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your five Disciplines, enter them in the Kai Discipline section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="camflage">
- <meta><title> Camouflage</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Kai Lord to blend in with his surroundings. In the countryside, he can hide undetected among trees and rocks and pass close to an enemy without being seen. In a town or city, it enables him to look and sound like a native of that area, and can help him to find shelter or a safe hiding place.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Camouflage</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hunting">
- <meta><title>Hunting</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Lord will never starve in the wild. He will always be able to hunt for food for himself except in areas of wasteland and desert. You are aware that the Wildlands south of the Pass of Moytura are a wasteland and that opportunities for successful hunting may not arise until you reach the Ruanon Forest. But this skill is still very useful for it also enables a Kai Lord to move with great speed and dexterity.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Hunting</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sixthsns">
- <meta><title>Sixth Sense</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Lord of imminent danger. It may also reveal the true purpose of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tracking">
- <meta><title>Tracking</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to make the correct choice of a path in the wild, to discover the location of a person or object in a town or city and to read the secrets of footprints or tracks.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Tracking</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="healing">
- <meta><title>Healing</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline can be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in combat. If you possess this skill, you may restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to your total for every numbered section of the book you pass through in which you are not involved in combat. (This is only to be used after your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) Remember that your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> cannot rise above its original level.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Healing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wepnskll">
- <meta><title>Weaponskill</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Kai monastery, each initiate was taught to master one type of weapon. If Weaponskill is to be one of your Kai Disciplines, pick a number in the usual way from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> on the last page of the book, and then find the corresponding weapon from the list below. This is the weapon in which you have skill. When you enter combat carrying this weapon, you add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = Dagger</li>
- <li>1 = Spear</li>
- <li>2 = Mace</li>
- <li>3 = Short Sword</li>
- <li>4 = Warhammer</li>
- <li>5 = Sword</li>
- <li>6 = Axe</li>
- <li>7 = Sword</li>
- <li>8 = Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>9 = Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with a weapon does not mean that you set out on this adventure carrying it, but you will have opportunities to acquire weapons in the course of your adventure. You cannot carry more than 2 weapons.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponskill in <ch.blankline/> +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points if this weapon carried</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindshld">
- <meta><title>Mindshield</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Some of the hostile creatures of Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Kai Discipline of Mindshield prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindshield: no points lost when attacked by Mindblast</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mndblast">
- <meta><title>Mindblast</title></meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>This enables a Kai Lord to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used at the same time as normal combat weapons and adds two extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Not all the creatures encountered on this adventure will be harmed by Mindblast. You will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlknsp">
- <meta><title>Animal Kinship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to communicate with some animals and to be able to guess the intentions of others.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindomtr">
- <meta><title>Mind Over Matter</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Discipline enables a Kai Lord to move small objects with his powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mind Over Matter</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 4 of Lone Wolf, you may add a further Kai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <bookref series="lw" book="05sots">Book 5</bookref>. This additional skill, together with your other skills and any Special Items that you have found, may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf series which is called <bookref series="lw" book="05sots"><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite></bookref>.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Holmgard on your ride south, you are given a <a idref="map">Map of the Southlands</a>, a badge of rank that you wear upon the sleeve of your tunic and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you may now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total of any Crowns you may already possess. Remember you can only carry a maximum of fifty Crowns.)</p>
- <p>You may take your pick of the following items (in addition to those you already possess, but remember you may only carry two weapons). You may take up to six of the following:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Warhammer (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Dagger (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 Potions of Laumspur (Backpack Items). Each of these potions restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. Each potion contains enough for one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>5 Special Rations (Meals). Each of these Special Rations counts as one Meal, and each takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Chainmail Waistcoat (Special Items). This adds 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mail.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mail.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Shield (Special Items) This adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in combat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="shield.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="shield.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the six items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You don<ch.apos/>t need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Warhammer<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Dagger<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur<ch.emdash/>carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Sword<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Spear<ch.emdash/>carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Special Rations<ch.emdash/>carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace<ch.emdash/>carried in hand.</li>
- <li>Chainmail Waistcoat<ch.emdash/>worn on the body.</li>
- <li>Shield<ch.emdash/>slung over shoulder when not in combat otherwise carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
-
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill and the correct weapon, it adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember you can only carry two weapons at once.)</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at any time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>The currency of Sommerlund is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Whenever you kill an enemy and search the body, you may take any Gold Crowns that you find and put them in your Belt Pouch.</dd>
- <dt><a id="food">Food</a></dt>
- <dd>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Kai Discipline of Hunting as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat (unless you are in an area of wilderness where the opportunity for hunting is limited).</dd>
- <dt>Potions of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd>These are healing potions that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for two doses only. If you discover any other potions during the adventure, you will be informed of their effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Kai Disciplines to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is ambushed by a Winged Devil (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but must stand and fight as the creature swoops down on him. Lone Wolf has the Kai Discipline of Mindblast to which the Winged Devil is not immune, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 17.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Winged Devil<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of <ch.minus/>3. (17 <ch.minus/> 20 = <ch.minus/>3). <ch.minus/>3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and Winged Devil has been established as 3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- <li>Winged Devil loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are bestowed upon Kai Lords at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf series, you will gain an additional Kai Discipline and gradually progress towards mastery of the ten basic Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Novice</li>
- <li>Intuite</li>
- <li>Doan</li>
- <li>Acolyte</li>
- <li>Initiate<ch.emdash/>You begin the Lone Wolf adventures with this level of Kai training</li>
- <li>Aspirant</li>
- <li>Guardian</li>
- <li>Warmarn or Journeyman</li>
- <li>Savant</li>
- <li>Master</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Beyond the ten basic skills of the Kai Master await the secrets of the higher Kai Disciplines or <quote>Magnakai</quote>. By acquiring the wisdom of the Magnakai, a Kai Lord can progress towards the ultimate achievement and become a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission will be fraught with danger, for you are about to venture into the bleak and hostile Wildlands of the south. Use the <a idref="map">map</a> to help you plot your course to Ruanon. Make notes as you progress through the story, for they will be of great help in future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will aid you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>There are several routes to Ruanon, but only one will enable you to reach the mining town and find Captain D<ch.apos/>Val with the minimum of danger. A wise choice of Kai Disciplines and a great deal of courage should enable any player to complete the mission, no matter how weak his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures is not essential for the success of this quest.</p>
-
- <p>Good Luck!</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three days you lead your brave company of rangers across the lush plains of southern Sommerlund on the first stage of your urgent mission. The flat, treeless fields surround you with a seemingly endless expanse of wheat, so high that even though you are in the saddle it reaches well above your knees. Your horses seem to be swimming through a vast yellow sea of corn that is only interrupted by an occasional track, or group of isolated farmhouses.</p>
- <p>The southerners welcome your sudden appearance, but you only make the briefest stops for food and rest, neither wishing to risk becoming a burden, nor alarm these good people with your mission.</p>
- <p>By noon on the fourth day, you reach the Pass of Moytura. Here the plains give way to the broken foothills of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-35263-->Durncrag Mountains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-35263-->. You soon reach a highway, the surface cracked and full of potholes, heading off towards the south. This is the notorious Ruanon Pike. South of the pass, the Ruanon Pike crosses a hundred miles of open territory known as <quote>Raider<ch.apos/>s Road</quote>. Bandit tribes from the Wildlands and Giak war-bands from the mountains of the west frequently ambush those who travel along the Pike, and the regular shipment of gold and gems from the mines at Ruanon have sometimes yielded rich pickings to these merciless robbers.</p>
- <p><quote>Point and flankers,</quote> you shout, and immediately three groups of rangers peel away from the column and spur their horses to a gallop. You watch with pride as the expert horsemen take up their scouting positions to the front and side of the company.</p>
- <p>It is late afternoon when a ranger scout approaches the company from the west. He points towards a craggy outcrop where a thin spiral of wood smoke betrays a hut hidden beneath the overhanging rock.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you wish to investigate the hut, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to ignore the hut and continue on your ride along the Ruanon Pike, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the bodies of the dead bandits and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>12 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Backpack</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of the above items but be sure to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Picking up the map that lies on the bloodstained table, you notice that the room in which you now stand has been surrounded by a circle of black ink. The map reveals that a door in the far wall opens on to a passageway leading directly to the surface. Eager to leave the death-filled chamber, you pass through the door and run steadily along the passageway towards a distant shaft of sunlight. It takes several seconds for your eyes to adjust to the glare of the sun, but gradually you realize that you have finally escaped from the Maaken mines and are in the western foothills less than two miles from Ruanon itself.</p>
- <p>However, several bandit warriors can be seen patrolling an entrance to the mines, just below the rocky ledge on which you now crouch. If you are to reach Ruanon alive, you must avoid these patrols at all costs.</p>
- <p>Waiting until the enemy patrols have disappeared from view, you make your way down a steep track leading into a copse of densely packed trees. A brief pause for breath is all that you allow yourself before setting off through the forest towards Ruanon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
-
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the barricade and shout the order: <quote>Draw bows!</quote> And, as the enemy shield-wall closes fast in a deadly race to beat your archers, <quote>Fire!</quote></p>
- <p>Their shields of cured skin and wood are no defence against the hail of death that tears into their ranks. The whole line seems to pause and sway; great gaps appear and spearmen fall in heaps on the field. Few escape being injured.</p>
- <p>You sense a turn in the tide of battle. The enemy are pulling away from the barricades by the score, carrying their wounded on their backs and on their upturned shields.</p>
- <p>You jump from the wall and race back towards the watchtower where Captain D<ch.apos/>Val is still embroiled in a bitter struggle against the bandit horsemen. You are about to leap over the body of a dead bandit warrior when he suddenly comes to life and lashes out at your legs with a mace. He was only feigning death and his surprise attack has knocked you to the ground. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the fungi to be Calacena. The spores of these pink mushrooms are much sought after by illusionists and magicians, although it is said that they can cause terrible hallucinations and even madness. As you step gingerly along the corridor, you take great care not to tread or brush against the spore-laden fungi.</p>
- <p>The tunnel continues uninterrupted for several miles before eventually reaching a long, deserted gallery.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push him to the ground and smother him with your Kai cloak. The flames are soon extinguished and you draw away your cloak to see how badly he is injured. Your quick action has saved the captain<ch.apos/>s life for although his uniform is burnt and tattered, he has survived the fire unscathed.</p>
- <p><quote>It is my turn to thank you, Lone Wolf. This time it is you who has saved me from certain death.</quote></p>
- <p>You help the captain to his feet and race to the barricade; the enemy have now reached the ruined perimeter of Ruanon, and they are creeping forward under cover of the broken cottage walls. Climbing up <!--ERRTAG-RE-41411-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-41411--> an overturned wagon, you order the Sommlending guards back to the barricades. But is it too late to repel the attack?</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a junction where the track meets the main highway. Abandoned at the side of the road is a burnt-out wagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to investigate the wagon, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you decide to ignore the wagon and ride south along the highway, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>Your enemy falls from the saddle, and his body is dragged away by his horse, a twisted foot ensnared in the stirrup. All around you the din of battle rages. You realize that these armour-clad horsemen are no ordinary bandit clan; they fight with a discipline and skill unheard of among the lowly outlaws of the Wildlands.</p>
- <p>A horse passes close by, the dead body of a ranger still upright in the saddle. You snatch the reins and retrieve a war-horn from the dead man<ch.apos/>s neck. If you are to avoid total disaster, you know that you must quickly sound the retreat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You wheel your steed towards the south and spur the blood-spattered animal to the gallop. The remnants of your company are close at your heels, the victory cries of your foe resounding in their ears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your men secure the boat to a rusty iron ring before following you up the stone steps towards the archway. As you reach a narrow ledge at the top of the granite staircase, you hear strange sounds drifting from the darkness ahead, like the hissing of a jet of steam. It lasts for a few seconds before the crack of a whip and the voice of a man cursing <!--ERRTAG-RE-43687-->bring<!--/ERRTAG-RE-43687--> it to an abrupt halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to enter the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you decide not to enter the tunnel, you can return to the rowing boat and continue along the underground river by <link-text>turning to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of panic knots your stomach as the bridge drops away beneath your feet. You dive forward and just manage to grasp hold of the slatted wooden floor. But the worst is yet to come. Your grip is slipping, and the bridge is about to crash into the far wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to tighten your grip and brace yourself for the shock of impact, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you decide to leap clear of the swinging bridge into the unknown depth of the mine shaft, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior staggers back and tumbles over the ramparts into the raging battle below. His feathered mount ascends and flies away, its hideous caw piercing the storm-black sky.</p>
- <p>Lying upon the gore-stained floor is a beautiful Onyx Medallion, which was torn from the warrior<ch.apos/>s armour as he fell. If you wish to keep the Onyx Medallion, place it in your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect59">Leave the watchtower by <link-text>turning to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than twenty yards when you reach a solid rock-face. It is a dead end. The tunnel has only just been recently excavated, and you can go no further in this direction. You must now return to the junction.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fifty miles south of Ruanon, the ruined city of Maaken teeters on the brink of Maakengorge. A cold sweat breaks out upon your brow as you contemplate the difficulty of your mission, for you are separated from your goal by fifty miles of enemy-held territory. But there is still a flicker of hope; with the enemy in confusion and retreat, your chances of success will be far higher now than before battle.</p>
- <p>Before you set off on your perilous mission, Captain D<ch.apos/>Val offers you the choice of the following equipment and provisions:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur<ch.emdash/>Restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- </ul>
- <choice idref="sect140">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>The show finally comes to an end, and you make the necessary preparations for a night<ch.apos/>s sleep. At dawn the next day, you and your company bid farewell to the travelling players and continue on your way to Ruanon.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Your rangers spread out and move stealthily forward under cover of the large boulders. When you are almost close enough to reach out and touch the enemy, you give a piercing whistle<ch.emdash/>the signal to attack! In unison, your men rise up and strike. Two bandits die instantly, their skulls cloven in two by ranger swords. A third turns to run, but he is felled from behind and swept away in the foam-flecked water. Your target is a formidable looking warrior; great bracers of steel encase his wrists and a grim necklace of shrunken skulls adorns his leather battle-jerkin. You strike first, but his reactions are lightning-fast. He turns your blow aside with his spear and lunges at your face.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Your target is a formidable Bandit Warrior</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="703" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="703" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to evade combat at any time, you can dive into the River Xane by <link-text>turning to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden less than a hundred yards when you notice fresh hoof prints in the dust of the winding track.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You reach the door and quickly make your escape. The land behind the tavern is steep and heavily forested. Two of your men follow, but they are both badly wounded and cannot keep up with you. You turn to shout encouragement, only to witness their deaths as they are brutally stabbed to the ground. The bandit murderers wipe their blades and sprint towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to run straight into the forest, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to try to change direction as soon as the trees hide you from your pursuers, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A spear tip has grazed your forearm. It is a mere scratch, yet your arm has become numb and useless. You strike back at your assailant, hoping to catch him as he pulls back, but your blow is weak and poorly aimed. Your vision is becoming a blur; you cannot coordinate your movements. Blind terror engulfs you as you suddenly realize that the bandits are using poisoned weapons.</p>
- <p>A spear catches you beneath the arm and another sinks into your chest. As darkness engulfs you from all sides, the last sight you remember is the triumphant grimaces of your murderers as they stab you to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the hoof prints of a Sommlending cavalry horse. There are two sets of tracks, and you are sure that they were made by two of your missing scouts. You decide to follow them eastwards in the hope of finding your men.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You instantly recognize these amulets. They are the symbols of a Holy Order known as <quote>The Redeemers</quote>, a silent order of pilgrims devoted to a lifetime of prayer and healing. You apologize for your hasty reaction. The holy men both nod their shaven heads in forgiveness.</p>
- <p>Your men have pitched camp beneath the marble canopy, and preparations are soon under way for a good night<ch.apos/>s sleep. You are hungry and you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An arrow hisses overhead; a scream of agony fills the air. The bow slips from the archer<ch.apos/>s fingers as he sinks to his knees, the arrow lodged deep between his startled eyes. The clack of fangs and the soft swift pad of stealthy feet tell you that the Warhounds are closing in. You look up to see a man running towards you from the barricade. He has a shield in one hand and a longbow in the other; it is Guard Captain D<ch.apos/>Val. He reaches you, breathless from his run, and draws an arrow from his quiver. D<ch.apos/>Val aims and fires, drawing another arrow from his quiver as soon as the first is loosed. The Warhounds tumble and crash to the ground around you, felled by D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s deadly shafts. Eight lie dead before his quiver is empty.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The captain grabs you by the arm and, swinging you over his shoulder in one swift motion, carries you back towards the barricade. Others run forward to help you, but the bandit archers are now in range and your men are forced back by a hail of arrows. The red shafts of the enemy whistle past on all sides. You reach the barricade, a wagon is pulled aside, and you are carried in through the gap. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val is close to exhaustion; he staggers, and his men rush to catch him before he drops to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After half an hour, one of your men reports sighting a track ahead. The narrow dirt path leads off to the east and the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you wish to follow it east, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to it west, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect22-1-foot" idref="sect22-1">
- <p>If you are using a Kalte Firesphere instead of a Torch, you will still lose an item as described as you fumble for the Firesphere in your pocket.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fumble in your Backpack to remove a Torch,<footref id="sect22-1" idref="sect22-1-foot"/> and in doing so, you drop one other Item from your Backpack into the crevasse. (If you were only carrying a Torch, you have lost a Weapon instead.)</p>
- <p>You eventually manage to light the new Torch and make your way safely across to the other side of the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">Continue along this tunnel and <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the door, but only to find it locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you possess a Brass Key, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
-
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap across the warrior<ch.apos/>s dead body and enter the watchtower. Running up the wide stone stairs, you reach a landing on the first level where two soldiers are firing their bows through narrow oblong slits in the wall. Suddenly one of them cries out in pain and staggers back, an arrow sunk in his chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, you can help this wounded soldier by <link-text>turning to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to continue up the stairs to the watchtower roof, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to pick up the wounded archer<ch.apos/>s bow and man his position at the arrow slit, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect25-1-foot" idref="sect25-1">
- <p>You have entered the Wildlands south of the Pass of Moytura. You cannot use Hunting to fulfil Meal requirements in this desolate area.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>After journeying through the rich wheat fields of southern Sommerlund, the view that lies before you now looks especially bleak and colourless. The landscape is flat and desolate, only relieved here and there by a ragged copse of stunted firs or mound of broken earth.<footref id="sect25-1" idref="sect25-1-foot"/> During the afternoon, storm clouds gather above the peaks of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-58349-->Durncrag Mountains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58349--> to the west, and the roll of distant thunder warns of imminent rain. It is early evening when your scouts find the ruins of an old temple, less than a mile from the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to set up camp for the night in the shelter of the ruins, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to avoid the temple and continue, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you run towards the ladder, the dreadful screams of your dying men claw at your ears, as they are eaten alive. You stop and stare back into the tunnel. The Stoneworm is now barely twenty feet away, and is slithering towards you at a terrifying pace. You know that you will never reach the ladder in time to escape. In desperation, you raise your weapon and prepare for combat. The creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>The Stoneworm slithers towards you</line><line>at a terrifying pace</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
-
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Stoneworm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the side of the wagon and sprint towards a line of densely packed trees less than twenty yards from the track. Luck is with you, for the bandit guards fail to notice your daring escape and the wagons continue on their way towards the gantry.</p>
- <p>Pausing just long enough to catch your breath, you give silent thanks to the stranger who helped you, before pressing onwards through the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the warrior lets out his last dying gasp of pain, he topples back into the mine shaft and plummets into the darkness. His men seem stunned by your fighting prowess, and trip over each other in their haste to escape a similar fate. As the sound of their hurried footsteps disappears along the tunnel, you quickly cross the bridge and leave the chamber through a tunnel in the west wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect29-1-foot" idref="sect29-1">
- <p>You need not erase any Torches from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in this case.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Torch burns fiercely for just a few seconds before it splutters and dies. You try to relight it but it is hopeless<ch.emdash/>it simply will not burn.<footref id="sect29-1" idref="sect29-1-foot"/> If you possess other Torches in your Backpack, you will also discover that for some mysterious reason, they will no longer light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you possess a Firesphere, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to continue in the dark, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to leave the vault and attempt an entry via the guarded crypt door, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The long night ride and the lack of sleep begins to tell on both your men and their horses. No matter how hard you urge your company on, you cannot outdistance the bandit horde.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a large force of armoured horsemen appear from behind a shallow ridge to your left. They are trying to cut across and block the highway. As your paths converge, you brace yourself for the imminent confrontation.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is swift, dark and very cold. You tumble helplessly downstream as the irresistible current carries you towards a new and unforeseen danger: white water! The hiss of the rushing water fills your ears. You gulp a lungful of air and brace yourself, for it is now too late to avoid the torrential rapids that lie ahead.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hideous creature uncoils itself from your legs and sinks into the water. You are elated by your victory, but your lungs feel as if they are on fire. You claw your way upwards until you eventually reach the surface, choking and gasping for air.</p>
-
- <p>The only sign of the rowing boat and your men that remains on the surface of this dark and dreadful river is a splintered oar floating nearby. You hook your arm over this and drift with the current towards the far bank. A check of your Backpack and pockets reveals that nothing was lost during your struggle in the water, but this discovery comes as cold comfort <!--ERRTAG-RE-64952-->now that your brave company<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64952--> is no more.</p>
- <p>Steeling yourself against the unknown dangers that may lie ahead, you resolve to reach Ruanon and uncover the veil of mystery that surrounds it. But first you allow yourself one last look at the black river before you enter the east tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is almost dark when you reach the edge of a densely forested valley. You can just make out the highway disappearing into the trees ahead and catch sight of a signpost pointing towards the south. You are now only forty miles from Ruanon, but your men are tired and in need of food and rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to set up camp at the edge of the forest, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you wish to send some men into the valley to scout for bandits, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you decide to go without food and sleep and press on to Ruanon as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature is flooded by the golden light of your sword. A look of terror crosses its ghoulish face and it hurls itself upwards to avoid your sword blow. You brace yourself for another onslaught but it never comes: your silent attacker has escaped into a fissure in the ceiling.</p>
- <p>Sheathing your sword, you prepare to continue. You notice a low portal in the vault wall leading to a long and narrow corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to leave the vault and attempt to enter the temple via the guarded crypt door, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill, you blend into the shadows of the chamber wall and slowly inch your way nearer and nearer to the bridge. Suddenly, the guard puts down his block of wood and turns his back: he is rummaging in his haversack for some food. You see your chance and sprint towards the bridge, your weapon poised to strike down the unwary guard.</p>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, or if you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian or higher, then add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If your total is now 8<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Warhounds lope towards you at an unnerving speed. You can see their great red-lipped jaws clearly and hear the clacking of their fangs. You fight to control your breathing, to concentrate all your warrior skills, for you must despatch the Warhounds quickly and with precision if you are to avoid being torn to pieces. Two dogs, faster than their brothers, break free of the pack and close upon you. They leap simultaneously, their slavering jaws spread wide for attack. You dive forward and roll, striking at their bellies from beneath as they pass above. Both howl with rage and pain and tumble lifeless to the ground. You are back on your feet as the next Warhound attacks.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warhound</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you win this combat in 3 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect277">If the combat lasts longer than 3 rounds, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You signal to the driver to stop. The wagons halt and a small, moon-faced man in a bright pink tunic throws open the rear door of the leading carriage. He shouts and curses the driver as he descends the ladder, pausing only to adjust the cummerbund that barely covers his huge stomach. Seeing your men, he lets out a strangled shriek and fumbles for a short sword hanging at his side. <quote>Bandits! Robbers!</quote> he cries, and wrestles to free his sword from its ornate scabbard. A row of anxious faces appears at the wagon windows, but the expressions soon change to a smile when they recognize your Sommlending uniforms.</p>
- <p><quote>Calm yourself, Yesu,</quote> shouts an elderly woman. <quote>They are Sommlending rangers. They will not steal your gold.</quote> Laughter ripples along the carriages as the little fat man suddenly unsheathes his sword with such force that he spins around and tumbles to the ground.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>The little fat man spins around</line><line> and tumbles to the ground</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="620" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="620" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You must forgive Yesu,</quote> says the old woman. <quote>He means you no harm. <quote>Raider<ch.apos/>s Road</quote> has made him a nervous wreck.</quote></p>
- <p>You question the old woman, asking her where they have come from and their destination. You learn that they are a troupe of players and have journeyed many miles from their native land of Cloeasia in the east. They last played for the people of Eshnar, but it was a disappointing show. It seems that the town was as quiet as the grave; those who did come to see them were a sad and sorry crowd. They are now bound for Holmgard, and hopefully a more appreciative audience.</p>
- <p><quote>Light is fading,</quote> remarks the old woman. <quote>Perhaps you and your men will camp with us tonight? We would deem it an honour, and would be happy to entertain you all with songs and dancing.</quote> You notice a hopeful look in the eyes of your men as they await your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you wish to set up camp with the troubadours, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect247">If you decide to press on to Ruanon, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No cargo remains inside the charred shell of the wagon. The wood is black, and the metal fittings have buckled and blistered in the heat. However, in spite of the damage, you find enough proof from the ashes to confirm your suspicions. This is the wreck of a Sommlending cavalry wagon; one of three that left for Ruanon with Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s troop over a month ago.</p>
- <p>As you stand in the wagon, brushing the ash from your hands, one of your men suddenly cries out in pain. You glance up in time to see him fall from his horse, a disc of sharp steel embedded in his chest. <quote>Ambush! Take cover!</quote> you shout, as more of the deadly discs whistle out of the trees to claim their victims. Frightened horses gallop in all directions, your men desperately clinging to the reins. The hidden attackers vanish as quickly as they came, but not before three of your men are left dead upon the highway.</p>
- <p>After burying your dead, you must decide on the best course of action; for now only four men remain at your side and the hidden enemy may return at any time to finish their evil handiwork.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to continue along the highway, riding full speed for Ruanon, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to avoid the main highway and continue by the eastern track, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow arcs through the smoke-blackened sky and pierces the officer<ch.apos/>s shining breastplate. You hear his scream of pain ring out above the din of battle and watch as his cruel eyes flicker and close. He swoons and slips from his saddle, your arrow lodged deep in his heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A line of empty ore wagons lie parked along a stretch of track that disappears into the west wall of this gallery. Above the arched tunnel, a flight of wooden stairs leads to a smaller passage lit by a spluttering torch.</p>
- <p>You stay hidden in the shadows, watching the gallery for half an hour before you are satisfied that it is safe to enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, and if you have reached the Kai rank of Aspirant, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to follow the wagon track into the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to climb the stairs to the balcony and explore the passage, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the silky fluid; it is the trail of a Stoneworm, a dangerous subterranean predator. You warn your men not to step in the slime, for it is highly corrosive. No sooner have the words left your mouth than there is a sudden and ghastly noise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your knees shatter on impact and you drop like a stone into the darkness of the shaft, but the pain and shock soon fades into unconsciousness. As you hit the surface of an underground river, hundreds of feet below, you are unable to save yourself from death by drowning.</p>
- <choice>Your mission and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are to survive this attack, you must fight with speed and accuracy. You raise your weapon poising yourself to strike.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Mind Over Matter or Weaponskill, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Kai Discipline of Hunting or Sixth Sense, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the rangers encircle the ruins, the strangers make a dash for the highway. Your men give chase and swiftly despatch them with their swords. One of the robed men shatters a small flask as he falls to the ground. A search of the bodies reveals 12 Gold Crowns and enough food for two Meals. You notice that both of the men wear amulets on chains around their necks. They are wooden and shaped in the likeness of fish. If you wish to keep any of these Items, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize gnadurn sap dripping from their spears. It is a deadly poison. You dare not risk engaging in combat with these bandits, for the merest graze from one of their tainted weapons could be fatal. Leaping to your feet, you race away from the trees and run towards Ruanon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely taken a dozen steps when you are confronted by a hideous sight. The tunnel ahead is blocked by a huge and slimy creature, its skin covered with warts that glow with a greenish luminescence. You draw your weapon as it moves closer, hopping from one clawed foot to the other. Suddenly, a pair of wings sprouts from its back, and it leaps into the air. You feel your stomach contract as it hurtles towards you, its razor-fanged mouth opening wider and wider.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Fiend</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to gasp a lungful of air before the dark waters close over your upturned face. A tentacle brushes your foot, and you lash out just in time to prevent it from ensnaring you. The creature is badly wounded, but it is determined to claim your life in return for its injury.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Meresquid</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">37</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If the combat lasts longer than five rounds, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you win the combat in five rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the left tunnel leads away from Ruanon. Without hesitation, you turn and head off towards the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145"><link-text>Turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lifting your feet high, you step into the tall crops, taking care to part them first with your hands. You allow the stalks to close again behind your back before you crouch down and hold your breath. You have completely vanished from sight; it is as if the stalks have never been disturbed.</p>
- <p>The bandits amble past barely inches from where you hide, oblivious to your presence. When you are sure they have gone, you emerge from the crops and hurry away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great doors open to reveal a patrol of six tunnel guards. They are each armed with a crossbow and react instantly to your presence on the bridge. <quote>Charge!</quote> you shout, hoping that you might be able to overpower the guards before they can fire their deadly weapons.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If the number is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been riding for over four hours when you see a flock of birds. They are black and very large and are swooping around the brow of a distant ridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to investigate the ridge, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you would rather ignore the birds and press on, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hail of feathered shafts cuts the air. The arrows strike home with deadly accuracy. Three of your men have fallen by the time you reach the mine, and an arrow passes so close to your right eye that you are blinded by its flights. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. With a hand held to your injured eye, you stagger into the entrance of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door slams shut, and you spin round to see a bandit leaping at you from the shadows. His head is a mass of bloodied bandages, but he is armed and determined to fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Bandit</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He fights you with his back to the door and you cannot evade him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you gradually descend into the tunnel, you feel a draught of cold, dank air on your face. The walls of the tunnel are composed of a glittering ore that catches the light of your torch and reflects it in a dazzling display of colour. As your eyes follow the dancing lights you suddenly notice that the floor is covered with pink fungi.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect4">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing and you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you do not have this skill, or if you have yet to reach the rank of Kai Warmarn, you can risk walking through the fungi; <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">Alternatively, if you wish, you may eat some of the fungi by <link-text>turning to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you make your way along the torchlit tunnel, you pass several ore wagons bearing the same design branded upon their wooden sides: a cross moline above the initials <quote>O.V.</quote>. You recognize the seal of Oren Vanalund, the Baron of Ruanon, and it confirms the fact that you are heading in the right direction. Suddenly, the sound of approaching footsteps begin to echo along the tunnel ahead. They become louder, accompanied now by shouting and the crack of a whip.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to dive into one of the empty ore wagons, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to hide in the shadows of the rough tunnel wall, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the guard and open a deep wound in his neck. He screams and turns to face you, a short sword in his hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you win and the fight lasts for 3 rounds of combat or less, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you win but the fight lasts longer than 3 rounds, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You must save her, Lone Wolf. You must prevent the sacrifice!</quote> The Baron<ch.apos/>s voice is choked with emotion.</p>
- <p><quote>Save who? Who must he save?</quote> questions Captain D<ch.apos/>Val, as he tries to calm the excited Baron.</p>
- <p><quote>My daughter, Madelon, of course,</quote> the Baron answers. Tears are welling up in his eyes and nervously he wrings his hands. Then he utters the ominous prophecy:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
- <line>When the full moon shines o<ch.apos/>er the temple deep,</line>
- <line>A sacrifice will stir from sleep</line>
- <line>The legions of a long forgotten lord.</line>
- <line>When a fair royal maid on the altar dies,</line>
- <line>The dead of Maakengorge shall rise</line>
- <line>To claim their long-awaited reward.</line>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <p><quote>Don<ch.apos/>t you see? Barraka has found the dagger of Vashna. He is going to sacrifice my daughter upon the altar of Maaken to release the undead of Maakengorge, the chasm of doom.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>During the Age of the Black Moon, King Ulnar of Sommerlund killed the mightiest of all the Darklords, Vashna, with the Sommerswerd<ch.emdash/>the sword of the sun. Vashna<ch.apos/>s body and the bodies of all his troops were hurled into the bottomless abyss of Maakengorge. He plans to lead the dead to victory; first to conquer Sommerlund and then all of the Lastlands,</quote> explains the Baron, fear in his eyes.</p>
- <p>You stare at the Baron in stunned silence. If Barraka completes the sacrifice, all is lost. What mortal army can stand against a legion of the dead?</p>
- <p>Captain D<ch.apos/>Val ushers you from the chamber and closes the door. <quote>I feared he was insane, and I refused to listen to his words. But the events of the last few days confirm my worst nightmare. He speaks the truth!</quote></p>
- <p>As the dreadful significance of the prophetic verse begins to chill your spine, your thoughts are broken by the shrill blast of a war-horn. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val strides over to an arrow slit in the wall and looks out across the desolate plain. As he turns to speak, his face is ashen grey. <quote>The bandits<ch.emdash/>they<ch.apos/>re launching an attack!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you possess Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s Sword, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you do not possess this weapon, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Peering about in the gloom of the camp perimeter, you decide that the actor can only be in one of two places: a large caravan to your left or a smaller coach to your right. You notice a handkerchief lying at the door of the smaller coach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you wish to enter the large caravan, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you decide to investigate the smaller coach, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain D<ch.apos/>Val and his men are locked in mortal combat with the invading cavalry; they are outnumbered and hard-pressed by the merciless foe who use their spike-shod horses to kick and trample their opponents underfoot. You reach the barricade to see yet another wave of the enemy approaching. Armoured handlers with packs of Warhounds spread out in front of a line of spear-armed infantry.</p>
- <p>Fifty yards from the barricade, the armoured handlers stop and kneel to let loose their dogs of war.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense reveals that the right tunnel is a dead end. Anxious not to get trapped by your pursuers, you turn and run into the left tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reactions have saved you from the river. You sidestep in time to avoid the sinuous tentacle and lash out. The blow opens a wide gash and an arc of green blood sprays across the battered rowing boat. Only two of your men remain. One stabs at the tentacle around his foot, and the other lies unconscious at your feet, his arm badly broken at the elbow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to hack at the tentacle that is coiled around the ranger<ch.apos/>s foot, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to aid the unconscious ranger lying at your feet, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to grab the oars and row for the bank, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bandit springs to his feet and attacks you with his mace. Deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first 3 rounds of combat, as you are now lying on the ground. You cannot evade the combat and must fight the bandit to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of a tolling bell drifts across the barren landscape. Window shutters slam down, but eyes still peer at you from the arrow slits carved into the walls.</p>
-
- <p>You draw your company to a halt outside the wide tavern doors. <quote>We are Sommlending. We seek shelter for the night and fodder for our mounts,</quote> you shout. There is a long pause before a voice answers your call.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to discover the nature of the reply.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect259">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only exit from the chamber, other than the well and the tunnel by which you entered, is by a spiral staircase set into the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you tread on the fungi, the pink flesh splits releasing clouds of spores into the tunnel. They fill your eyes and nostrils. You cannot breathe. Blindly you stagger forward until you are clear of the fungi, but as you emerge from the cloud of spores, you are confronted by another peril. A host of hideous, bat-winged reptiles are flying towards you, their scaly hands grasping jagged pieces of stalagmite. You cannot evade combat and must fight them all as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Fiends</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land and roll forwards. The Vassagonian leaps after you, hoping to deliver a killing blow before you can rise, but he does not realize he is fighting a Kai Lord. You strike him in mid-air, and he is dead before he hits the ground.</p>
- <p>D<ch.apos/>Val runs past to your left. He leads a dozen of his best swordsmen in a countercharge, driving the enemy back to the barricade. None escape alive. Those who survive D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s swordsmen are cut down by his archers as they run across the plain. But the shout of victory has barely died away when you are faced by another formidable attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your men are hungry and exhausted, but they possess an unshakeable faith in the infallibility of your Kai sense. You give the signal to leave, but as you near the town entrance, you hear a thin whistling noise. A ranger at your side suddenly screams in agony, a flat circle of razor-sharp steel embedded in his chest. More of the discs follow whistling down from the rooftops to claim their victims. One grazes the back of your hand before embedding itself in the neck of your startled horse. You are thrown to the ground and lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
-
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>Razor-sharp discs of steel whistle</line><line> down to claim their victims</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="622" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="622" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Staggering to your feet, you run, half-crouched, to the shelter of a wagon. Two of your men lie dead upon the road, but the others have escaped the ambush and are galloping away from the town, hidden by the rising clouds of dust.</p>
- <p>You turn to see a bandit warrior standing at a nearby balcony. He is dark-skinned, with oily black hair and beard. He flicks his hand and a deadly disc whistles towards your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this Special Item, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have either the Kai Discipline of Hunting or Mind Over Matter, add 2 to the number that you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If it is 5<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If it is 9<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>One sharp blow with the edge of your hand is all that is needed to smash the lock on the boathouse door. Your curiosity is soon rewarded by the sight of an upturned rowing boat resting upon a pair of wooden trestles. A pail of pitch stands beneath it. From the layer of dust covering the surface of the boat, you judge that it has stood undisturbed for several months.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to launch the rowing boat, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to search the boathouse for other useful items, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step over the dead guard, you follow the line of the hanging rope to a pair of locking pins, which secures the bridge to the edge of the mine shaft. If the guard had pulled the rope, the bridge would have fallen away, and you would have been trapped on this side of the chamber.</p>
- <p>You run across the bridge just as your pursuers enter. A rope, similar to the one opposite, hangs from the ceiling next to the tunnel entrance in the west wall. You look back to see that your pursuers are now halfway across the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to pull the rope, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you wish to ignore the rope and escape into the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your passage through the trees is lit by the flickering glow of the campfires that line the highway. Bandit warriors huddle round drawing warmth and comfort from the flames. They take little interest in their guard duties, and you find it easy to avoid their patrols.</p>
- <p>By morning, you have reached the edge of the forest. You stare out across the fields of crops towards a small village that lies at the base of a shallow valley. The fields are only separated by narrow tracks, and these are alive with flying insects, hovering in swarms. You are walking along one of these tracks when suddenly you spot bandits ahead. They are wandering idly up the track towards you, their spears slung over their shoulders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you possess an Onyx Medallion, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage and have reached the Kai Rank of Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you do not have this Special Item or this Discipline and Kai Rank, dive into the tall crops and hide by <link-text>turning to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>As the warrior falls dead at your feet, you turn to rally your men. To your horror, you see three of them lying <!--ERRTAG-RE-100596-->spread-eagled<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100596--> on the stairs, killed by crossbow bolts. The other man is wounded and surrounded by the enemy. As more guards flood into the chamber, he shouts in desperation, <quote>Flee, my Lord. Escape while you still can.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>No sooner have his words echoed through the hall than a sword blade pierces his heart. You turn and run towards a distant door where a tunnel disappears towards the north. Slamming the door you draw its bolt. As you race along the dusty tunnel you pray that the door will hold and keep your pursuers at bay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
-
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flat Wildlands offer no cover in which to hide from the bandit horde. You know that if you are to avoid combat with an enemy which vastly outnumbers you, you must split up your company and try to outrun them.</p>
-
- <p>You detach a troop of ten rangers to follow you and send the remainder off towards the west, in the hope that they may lure the bandits away to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-102151-->Durncrag Mountains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102151-->.</p>
- <p>With one last glance at the enemy, you lead your ten rangers on a deadly race along the Ruanon Pike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You circle the temple, keeping just out of reach of the blue-flamed dagger. Barraka unsheathes a scimitar with his free hand, cutting the air about your head with its mirror-like steel but drawing no blood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you possess a Flask of Holy Water, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess this Item, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes without incident, and you awake refreshed by your sleep: restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. After breaking camp, you enter the forested valley. Your warrior instincts warn you that the highway would be the ideal place for an ambush; the densely packed trees lining the roadside could easily conceal an attacker. As a precaution against such a surprise attack, you send three of your men on ahead with orders to report back if they should sight anything at all unusual.</p>
- <p>After travelling some distance, you come across the wreck of a burnt-out wagon abandoned at the side of the road. Behind it, a track disappears eastwards up into the hills. There is no sign of your scouts, who should have returned to report this abandoned wreck.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to search the wrecked wagon, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to ignore the wagon and continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to investigate the track leading into the hills, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has the first warrior collapsed when another is hacking at you from the side. As you turn to face him, a spear thrust gashes your left arm and you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You recoil in pain and, in the crush of battle, you slip and fall to the floor, which is already strewn with bodies. Then you glimpse an open door and crawl towards it.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>5, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If your total is now 6<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards will not answer your questions. They seem to be more afraid of what their leader will do if they betray him than any torture they may face at your hands. All that you can determine from their uniforms and their manner is that they are part of the bandit horde that attacked you earlier.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to search them, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to leave the chamber, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An evil sneer spreads across his savage face. His words sound in your mind although his lips never part. This warrior is skilled in mind combat. Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield you will lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for every round of combat you fight with him. He is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Captain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <choice idref="sect98">You may evade combat after 2 rounds by <link-text>turning to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you win, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach they slip back their hoods to reveal two smiling faces. They seem relieved to have made friendly contact in the middle of this inhospitable wasteland. Neither of them speaks, but they remove amulets from around their necks and offer them as some kind of identification. The small wooden fish hanging on the neck-chains are symbols of a Holy Order known as <quote>The Redeemers</quote>, a silent order of pilgrims devoted to a lifetime of prayer and the study of the healing arts.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>One of the pilgrims hands you a small earthenware Flask that contains a potion of Holy Water. If you wish to keep this Flask, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <p>Your men pitch camp beneath the marble canopy and preparations are made to get some sleep. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Struggling to your feet, you stagger along the forest track as it ascends into the darkening foothills of the Maaken range. The track comes to an abrupt end at the entrance of a mine tunnel, partially obscured by foliage. You realize this must be a disused route into the Maaken mines, for they honeycomb the foothills and mountains of this region. You know that if you can locate one of the major shafts, you should be able to trace your way through the mines to Ruanon itself.</p>
- <p>Just inside the tunnel entrance, you find a broken crate containing five Torches and a Tinderbox. The tunnel is pitch black and you will need at least one torch to light your way. You may take however many Torches you wish before continuing, but each Torch takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>The tunnel is cold and forbidding. You explore for over a mile before arriving at a junction. Here, another tunnel branches off towards the south. It appears to be a recent excavation, and you follow it in the hope of finding a major shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although the fire has totally destroyed any markings there may have been, there still remains enough of the charred shell for you to recognize its military origin. It is a Sommlending cavalry wagon, one of three that accompanied Captain D<ch.apos/>Val and his troop. It was loaded with food and equipment when it left Holmgard one month ago, but all that remains of its cargo now are heaps of ash. Once you have satisfied yourself that nothing has been overlooked that may give a clue to Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s fate, you remount your horse and lead your men southwards along the highway.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hoarse cries of the guard echo along the tunnel. You soon reach a section where repairs are in progress; a prop in the centre of the passage supports a cracked roof beam. If you could just knock away the prop, it might cause the roof to fall in, which would seal off the passage behind you. You can now hear the running footsteps of more than one guard approaching.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to knock away the roof prop, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you decide to ignore the prop and press on along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden less than a mile when you discover a burnt-out wagon abandoned at the side of the road. Behind it, a hill track disappears eastwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to investigate the wagon, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you decide to ignore the wagon and continue, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to explore the hill track, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>The stairs lead down to a lower level of the mines where a passage continues southwards. You have just entered the passage when a patrol of guards suddenly emerges from a concealed door ahead. You barge through them before they can draw their weapons, but their screams of anger echo in your ears as you sprint towards a faint light in the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the dim light of the interior you see an old man seated at a table. The flicker of a log fire is all that illuminates this foul-smelling hovel, yet it sheds enough light for you to see the clutter of charts and strange instruments that crowd the hut. The man slowly raises his gaze from a large crystal sphere and bids you sit opposite him.</p>
- <p><quote>You know my name<ch.emdash/>how?</quote> you ask warily.</p>
- <p><quote>The stars foretold our meeting long ago, Lone Wolf,</quote> he replies, slowly passing his withered old hands around the sphere. <quote>Be not alarmed by my knowledge for I wish only to aid you.</quote> He produces a small scroll of parchment from within his robe, and he hands it to you. Upon the scroll is written the following verse:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
- <line>When the full moon shines o<ch.apos/>er the temple deep,</line>
- <line>A sacrifice will stir from sleep</line>
- <line>The legions of a long forgotten lord.</line>
- <line>When a fair royal maid on the altar dies,</line>
- <line>The dead of Maakengorge shall rise</line>
- <line>To claim their long-awaited reward.</line>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>The stars foretold our meeting</line><line> long ago, Lone Wolf</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="650" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="650" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You ask the meaning of the strange verse, but the old man does not answer you. He seems to have fallen into a deep trance. You lean across the cluttered table to awaken him and are shocked to see your hand pass straight through his body. Gradually his image begins to fade. Within seconds he has disappeared completely.</p>
- <p>You place the Scroll in your pocket. (Mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You quickly leave the hut, pausing only to wipe the cold sweat from your brow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to draw your weapon, but the creature is a swift and deadly killer. Its hollow fangs penetrate your spine, drawing out your life<ch.apos/>s blood and paralysing your body. You hear the clatter of your weapon as it drops to the floor, but you do not feel pain as you topple forwards, smashing your face against the hard, unyielding stone.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leap <!--ERRTAG-RE-115516-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115516--> an overturned wagon, you catch sight of two soldiers smothering Captain D<ch.apos/>Val with their jackets. You pray he will survive the flames and that you have acted in time to rally his scattered force. The enemy has reached the ruined perimeter of Ruanon and are now creeping forward under cover of the broken cottage walls. You shout orders to D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men to hurry back to the barricade, but the enemy are only a hundred yards from the wall; is it too late to repel the attack?</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard is soon joined by more of his friends who give chase; you can hear their quickening pace and their harsh panting breath close behind you. Suddenly the tunnel narrows and divides in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense or Tracking, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to enter the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to enter the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A foul odour assails your nostrils, making you choke and retch. Covering your mouth and nose you step back and raise your weapon in readiness to strike, for the creature is slithering towards you at a frightening pace. Your men rain blows upon its gaping jaws, but their blades barely scratch the creature<ch.apos/>s glistening grey skin before they are snatched and swallowed whole. Relentlessly the Stoneworm advances until it is upon you. You cannot evade it and you must fight the creature to the death. It is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Stoneworm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wildly you fight your way through a circle of bandits, guiding your horse with just the pressure of your knees. Ahead you see a ridge of muddy ground, and you charge towards it in the hope that you can rally your men. You are approaching the brow of the ridge when an armour-clad warrior charges at you from the side, his spear levelled at your throat. You cannot evade combat and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you win, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a Vassagonian horseman who is now on foot. You cannot evade him and must fight him to the death.</p>
-
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Horseman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is impossible to enter the mine on horseback, and you are forced to leave your horses outside. The mine is very dark but you are quick to notice that unlit torches hang from the walls at regular intervals. You each take a torch and light them before continuing. In the dim glow you discover footprints leading to a collapsed section of the tunnel. They continue all the way to the top of a huge mound of earth, which reaches almost to the ceiling, leaving only a small gap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to climb the mound and squeeze through the gap, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you decide to call off the search, you can return to the surface, remount your horses and descend the hill track by <link-text>turning to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is noon on the following day when you reach the outskirts of Eshnar. To the south, the wooded hills gradually ascend towards the magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Maaken range. It is a beautiful sight, one of stark contrast to the squalor of Eshnar and the desolate Wildlands to the north. You ride along the only street in this dilapidated town and eventually arrive outside a large tavern called <quote>The Pick and Shovel</quote>. Your men are exhausted and badly in need of food and rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to enter the tavern, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you decide to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Four swarthy-faced bandits are seated at a round table, a plan of the mines spread before them. Surprise barely has time to register upon their faces before you launch your deadly attack; three are despatched even before they have drawn their weapons. The fourth rolls away from his dead companions and unsheathes his sword. The fire of revenge burns bitterly in his eyes as he lunges towards you.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the boat lurches forward and you are catapulted into space. You tumble for what seems like an eternity before hitting deep water with such breathtaking force that you plunge down over twenty feet. The icy water stuns you and saps your strength. You are desperate for air. You fight to reach the surface but your Backpack drags you down; you must discard it or you will certainly drown.</p>
- <p>When you reach the surface, you are caught by the swift current and swept away from the waterfall. You are soon washed up upon a gravel bank at the bottom of a steep ravine.</p>
- <p>You have lost your Backpack and everything it contained, as well as your boat and your men. But in spite of this calamity, you are still alive and relatively unharmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>What proof have we that you<ch.apos/>re not bandits in stolen uniforms?</quote></p>
- <p>What can you say or do that will convince them that you speak the truth?</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to say that you are a Kai Lord and that your men are Border Rangers of Sommerlund, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you wish to show them your Badge of Rank, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A tentacle smashes straight through the keel with such force that the boat is lifted into the air, and you are thrown head over heels into the icy river.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If it is 5<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you emerge from the tunnel you glimpse the silhouette of the guards approaching. You curse yourself for taking the wrong route; you have now walked straight into a patrol. However, before they can catch you, you turn and make a hasty escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior<ch.apos/>s scimitar slices the air barely inches above your head as you drop through the trapdoor. He attempts to follow you but is forced back by your weapon blows. You manage to slam the trapdoor shut and draw the bolt, locking the warrior out of the watchtower. Wiping the grime of battle from your stinging eyes, you run down the stairs and out of watchtower door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the darkness, you fail to notice a jagged hole in the planking of the bridge. You step straight into it and crash head first to the ground, over a hundred feet below.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An empty feeling grips your stomach as you stare upon the altar and inner sanctum of the subterranean temple. Your Kai senses burn as if every nerve in your body is screaming a warning to flee from this evil chamber. Huge braziers of molten metal encircle a black altar upon which lies fair Madelon, the daughter of Baron Vanalund. She seems to be entranced<ch.emdash/>her breathing is slow and shallow. Beyond the altar lie two massive doors, a gigantic skull engraved upon their black stone surface. Out of your view, another door opens, and a procession of red-cloaked priests enter the temple. Their heads are covered and they each carry strange amulets of black stone. They file past the altar, depositing the amulets in a circle around the young girl<ch.apos/>s body and then file out again in total silence. Then you hear the sound of a distant drumbeat; it grows louder and nearer. The measured steps of steel-shod boots resound in its wake. Barraka is approaching.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>A procession of red-cloaked priests</line><line>enter the temple</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="696" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="696" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the tunnel for over two hours before arriving in a huge cavern. The gloomy hall is divided by an underground river that disappears into a wide archway in the south wall. On its opposite bank, you can just make out the shape of another passage leading to the west. A small rowing boat is beached on this side of the river, and two pairs of oars are discovered behind the moss-covered boulder to which it is tied.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to row across to the other bank and take the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to take the boat and continue south via the river, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your men draw their swords and advance on the strangers. The hooded men immediately raise their hands and emerge from beneath the stone canopy. One of the men drops a small earthenware flask full of clear fluid and it shatters on the hard marble floor. A search of their bodies reveals 12 Gold Crowns and enough food for 2 Meals. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Around their necks they wear wooden amulets carved in the likeness of small fish.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You escape from the warrior but not before he has wounded you with his scimitar. You lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gasping from the pain of your wound, you manage to pull the trapdoor shut and draw the bolt before staggering down the stairs and out through the watchtower door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mustering all your reserves of speed and stamina, you sprint towards the far side of the bridge. The blood is pounding in your ears and you pray that the locking pins will hold just long enough for you to reach safety. You are barely ten feet from the far side when the floor shudders and falls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you want to try to dive for the far side, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to jump clear of the bridge and dive into the unknown depths of the mine shaft, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A group of armed guards suddenly appear at the top of the stairs and command you to halt. When you hesitate, they quickly unsling crossbows from their shoulders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to attack the guards, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to raise your hands and surrender, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horses are a small stocky breed known as kucheks. They are named after a town and province of Vassagonia, a country many hundred of miles to the east. The bandits you encountered on the Ruanon Pike rode kucheks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to leave Eshnar as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you decide to investigate the stables, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bandit horseman pursues you, his lance speeding closer and closer behind you. You are running flat out, and it is too late to dodge the Sommlending soldier who now stands in your way, his bow drawn ready to fire.</p>
- <p><quote>Dive!</quote> he screams at you, and instinctively you obey his bold command. Almost simultaneously, he releases the bowstring. The bandit is barely feet away when the steel-tipped arrow penetrates his visor and erupts from the rear of his helmet like a skewer through an apple. The charging horse crashes to the ground throwing its dead rider at your side. You open your mouth to shout your thanks, but before you can speak the soldier turns and hurries away to the barricade.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to follow him, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to continue towards the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leader of the tunnel guards barks an order to his men and they immediately halt in their tracks. It is obvious that they have been told not to interfere in this combat, for it seems their leader wants you all to himself.</p>
- <p>He is wearing a tall, plumed helmet and a brilliant red sash across his chest. With one quick movement, he levels his halberd at your head and attacks.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard Officer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect271">You may evade combat at any time by dashing across the bridge, and <link-text>turning to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You roll the dead bandit over with the toe of your boot and make a quick search of his body. You discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of the above items. As you are leaving, you notice a trapdoor in the floor. Opening it, you see that it leads down to the cellar of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to search the cellar, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you wish to leave the hut, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
-
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kick open the door and rush in. Unfortunately it is not the actor who stands before you now, but a young woman in the middle of taking her bath. After a few seconds of stunned silence, the woman begins to scream at the top of her voice, pausing only to throw at you anything that comes to hand. In a shower of hairbrushes, mirrors, combs and curses, you are driven from the coach, and the door is slammed firmly in your face. Outside you find a small crowd of people who have been attracted by the noise, none of whom can speak or understand Sommlending. You find it impossible to explain your innocent mistake and, confronted by their stony stares, you are forced to abandon your search for the runaway actor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steel yourself, mustering all your concentration for the exact moment to strike. Your warrior senses are razor-sharp; your attack is lightning-fast. You lunge forward beneath the bandit<ch.apos/>s sweeping longsword and sever the belly strap of his saddle. The saddle jerks to one side, and he slips from his horse, crashing to the ground in a cloud of dirt and ash. You advance to finish him, but he is quick to recover from the fall. Leaping to his feet, he turns to face you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to fight him, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bridge slams into the rock wall with a bone-jarring crunch.</p>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is less than 10, deduct 3 from the number that you have picked.</p>
- <p>If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is more than 20, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If your total score is now -3<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If it is 5<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
-
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the forest and descend the wooded hillside towards the River Xane. You have gone only a few yards when the trees become far too dense for you to be able to continue on horseback. Reluctantly, you signal to your men to dismount and continue on foot.</p>
- <p>You soon reach the river and follow the foam-flecked water upstream. The climb takes you through a maze of wide rock terraces worn smooth by the force of the river. Then, at a point where the torrent is fed by many smaller streams, you catch sight of six bandits, stabbing at the water with their spears as it thunders along the smooth-hewn channels. On the far bank, you can see a pile of grey fish standing next to a horse-drawn wagon, which you recognize as a Sommlending cavalry wagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you have yet to reach this level of Kai training, you can launch a surprise attack on the bandits, and <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you would rather try to sneak across the river under the cover of the many large boulders that divert the watercourse, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you would rather avoid crossing here and head back the way you have just come, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You order your men to prepare for combat and signal to one of the tavern-keeper<ch.apos/>s sons to open the doors. No sooner has he slid back the great iron bolt than the doors burst inwards. A dozen rain-drenched bandits charge into the tavern, their shields linked before them rim to rim. Your men press forward to halt their advance, hacking and stabbing whenever a head or arm presents a target, but they are forced to turn back when more bandits flood into the tavern.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A tall warrior in bright scarlet armour suddenly breaks clear of the shield-wall and runs at you. His sword is raised to stab.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade combat and must fight the warrior to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you drift beneath the arch of the southern tunnel, you pull your Kai cloak around your body and raise the hood. The ceiling is leaking and huge drops of ore-stained water rain down on your crowded boat, streaking the hair and tunics of your men a rusty brown.</p>
- <p>You row for over a mile before eventually emerging in a small grotto. A flight of stone steps rises out of the river and ascends to an archway in the rock wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to land at the steps and investigate the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to continue south by the river, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I was hoping the King would send a large search party,</quote> says Captain D<ch.apos/>Val wryly, now having fully recovered from his exhaustion. <quote>I was beginning to tire of this town.</quote></p>
- <p>You rise from your straw bed, and offer your thanks to the captain. His brave and timely action saved you from certain death. <quote><ch.apos/>Tis nothing to compare with you, Lone Wolf. Your bravery is legend. Your presence here is worth a hundred men.</quote></p>
- <p>He asks you about your mission, and you recount the events that have led you to this meeting; the ride south, the loss of your company, your passage through the Maaken mines and the bandits.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, the bandits<ch.emdash/>Barraka<ch.apos/>s men,</quote> retorts D<ch.apos/>Val, his gruff voice conveying his contempt for them and their leader. <quote>It seems we have both suffered at his hand. A month ago, he and his Vassagonian renegades ambushed my troop on the Ruanon Pike. We were sorely outnumbered and the fight was indeed bitter. But we broke free from them and escaped here to Ruanon. We have been beleaguered ever since and praying for help to arrive. We have enough weapons to resist them, but we have barely enough food and water to survive.</quote></p>
- <p>You ask what has become of the people of Ruanon. <quote>Most are now slaves. Barraka has taken the mines and he uses the Ruanese as forced labour. Other than yourself, only one man has escaped from the mines and survived the Warhounds and the bandit snipers. That man is Baron Oren Vanalund. Come, I shall take you to him.</quote></p>
-
- <p>D<ch.apos/>Val leads you to the topmost chamber of the watchtower and pushes open an iron-shod door. The sight that greets you fills your heart with sorrow and pity.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect117-1-foot" idref="sect117-1">
- <p>Remember that you may not use another Torch unless you have a Tinderbox as well. Also, you may use a Kalte Firesphere in place of a Torch and Tinderbox if you have one.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a section of tunnel that is under repair. Part of the floor has subsided, and a gaping hole is spanned by a rickety wooden bridge. You are tired and fail to notice that your Torch has almost burnt out. You are at the centre of the bridge when the Torch flickers and dies; you are plunged into darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you have another Torch<footref id="sect117-1" idref="sect117-1-foot"/> in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you have no other Torch, you must try to inch your way across the bridge in total darkness. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense or Tracking, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If it is 7<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron door is locked, but there is a lockplate with a keyhole and a large handle upon which hangs a Whip. If you decide to take the Whip, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you possess an Iron Key, you may open the door by <link-text>turning to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this key or if you do not want to open the door, you may leave the chamber via a spiral staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hold your blade, Barraka. Her life is not yours for the taking!</quote> Your words ring out above the howling wind. The renegade noble turns to face you, his laugh as piercing as your command. He advances towards you, the flame-licked dagger held high in his mailed fist. You draw your weapon and enter the temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to enter into combat with this warrior lord, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to try to free Madelon, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect120-1-foot" idref="sect120-1">
- <p>At this point Hunting will again begin to fulfil the Meal requirement.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>After many hours of riding you reach a highway junction. A large signpost indicates two destinations: south to Ruanon (60 miles) and east to Eshnar (40 miles).<footref id="sect120-1" idref="sect120-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to continue south, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you decide to go east, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has he fallen at your feet than another line of the enemy surges forward. Your men are brave and stolid, but the enemy are greater in number. You cannot hold them forever.</p>
- <p><quote>Into the mine!</quote> you shout, as the enemy pull back to regroup for another charge. But only four of your company make it to the mine; the others lie dead beneath their shields.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you raise your golden sword, the howling wind seems to rise in pitch and intensity. It claws at your mind, filling your head with terrible images of death and horror. Barraka sees you falter and strikes a cruel blow that opens a wound in your cheek. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. But the sudden pain reawakens you to the presence of your enemy, and the combat begins.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Barraka</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You are being attacked by a very powerful Mindblast. Unless you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> is reduced by 4 for the duration of this combat. However, Barraka himself is a warrior who possesses formidable strength of will: he is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Onward and upward, you claw your way through the wooded hillside. Your throat is dry and your heart is pounding as though it is about to burst, but you dare not slacken your pace. Four hours pass before you feel certain that you have outrun the enemy.</p>
- <p>It is nearly dusk when you chance upon a narrow steep-sided valley, carved from the hillside to afford access to a mine tunnel. For hundreds of years, the ore of the Maaken range has been the blessing and the bane of many who have ventured here to seek their fortune: men have found wealth beyond their wildest dreams, but also men have perished without trace in its labyrinth of cold dark tunnels.</p>
- <p>You examine the mine entrance. You know that if you can find a major passage, you could trace your way to Ruanon itself. At the entrance, you find a discarded wooden crate, containing six Torches and a Tinderbox. The mines are dark and you will need to use at least one Torch to light your way. You can take as many as you wish but remember each Torch counts as one Backpack Item, so be sure to make the appropriate changes to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">Enter the mines by <link-text>turning to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A mantlet, a large shield on wheels, is being pushed slowly across the body-strewn battleground towards the barricade. Arrow shafts soon bristle from its thick wooden planks as D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men fire their bows time and time again in an attempt to hit the shielded foe.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>A mantlet is being pushed across the</line><line> battleground towards the barricade</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="611" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="611" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly a robed figure darts from behind the mantlet and levels a black staff at the barricade. He is cut down by an arrow, but not before he has let loose from his staff a guttering ball of flame. It cartwheels across the plain and explodes with a tremendous roar, hurling the bodies of defenders and shattered barricade high into the air. Through the cloud of dust and debris, you can see a line of enemy cavalry charging across the plain. They wear tall plumed helmets of polished steel and breastplates of deepest crimson. In the wake of the fireball they pour through the remains of the barricade and attack<ch.emdash/>they give no quarter. A horseman spurs his horse towards you, his lance levelled at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to stand and fight the horseman, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to run back to the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>A smile flickers across your face as you give the rope a hefty tug. Confidently you turn to watch your pursuers drop into the gaping mine shaft. Unfortunately the only thing to drop is the heavy portcullis that has now sealed off the entrance to the tunnel. Your enemies cackle with glee and draw their weapons to strike.</p>
- <p>You cannot evade them and must fight them one at a time as they leap from the bridge.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you win, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Darkness soon engulfs the Ruanon Pike, and you are forced to stop and pitch camp. A large fire is blazing and a perimeter guard is posted to prevent any risk of a surprise attack during the night. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The night passes without incident and at dawn you break camp, continuing your ride along <quote>Raider<ch.apos/>s Road</quote>.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If the number that you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
-
- <p>As you crawl from under the body of the Elix, you see the desperate struggle still raging in the chamber. Two of your men lie dead, their throats torn out by the ferocious beasts. Another is pinned beneath an Elix, his sword thrust into its side. The other ranger has reached the stairs and is desperately hacking at the head and neck of an Elix whose teeth are sunk into his foot.</p>
- <p>There is no sign of the guards; they have been knocked backwards into the well and have fallen to a watery doom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you wish to help the ranger who is pinned to the floor, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to help the ranger who is fighting at the bottom of the stairs, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive towards the trapdoor, but the warrior is rushing to intercept your escape.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If it is 5<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect129-1-foot" idref="sect129-1">
- <p>It is up to you to decide, but it seems that using Hunting in the Maaken Mines isn't realistic.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You soon arrive at a collapsed section of the tunnel. A wide rift has appeared in the floor, and a makeshift bridge has been thrown across it. In spite of the many gaping holes in the bridge floor you make your way safely to the other side.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<footref id="sect129-1" idref="sect129-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect309">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For over an hour, you follow the river bank as it wends its way into the foothills of the Maaken range. The River Xane is wide and fast-flowing; there are no signs of any bridges or fords in this direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to return to the boathouse, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you wish to continue following the river towards the east, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is unlocked and opens out into a dimly lit tunnel. This section of the mine looks newly constructed, for the timbers are clean and the floor has yet to be worn smooth by the passage of miners and wagons. The tunnel heads south for nearly a mile before turning abruptly to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your men tether their horses and follow you into the tavern. An old woman stands behind the bar, her face taut and lined as if in pain. She wears men<ch.apos/>s clothes<ch.emdash/>a shirt and <!--ERRTAG-RE-157199-->chequered<!--/ERRTAG-RE-157199--> trousers. The tavern is empty, but the tables are covered with ale mugs, many half full of beer.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you feel uneasy about the tavern, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you wish to question the old woman, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect133-1-foot" idref="sect133-1">
- <p>Turn to <a idref="sect17">Section 17</a>, not <a idref="sect307">Section 307</a>, if you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points while evading.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bandits close on you from three sides and move in for the kill. They attack simultaneously and you must fight all three as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Patrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you lose any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during this combat, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">You may evade combat at any time by running towards Ruanon. <link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.<footref id="sect133-1" idref="sect133-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you win the combat without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon arrive at the entrance to a mine. Two sets of footprints disappear into the gloom of the tunnel and, judging by their shape and size, they were made by two of your missing scouts. You shout into the mine but there is no reply to your call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to enter the mine, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you decide to call off your search, return along the hill track and <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bleak, treeless Wildlands offer no cover in which you can hide from the bandit hordes. They outnumber your men by four to one, and the life and death of your entire company now depends on your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to counterattack the bandits in the hope that your bold action will scare them off, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to split your company, detaching a group of ten rangers to follow you whilst sending the remainder off towards the west in the hope of luring the bulk of the bandit horde away to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-160416-->Durncrag Mountains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-160416-->, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to head south at the gallop, to try to reach the shelter of the Ruanon forest before the bandits close in, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The injured man is in a state of shock; his left arm is completely smashed above and below the elbow, and many of his ribs are broken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All around the barricade the enemy are retreating in disorder; bandit war-horns announce the withdrawal, exhorting their defeated warriors to flee the battlefield. A jubilant Captain D<ch.apos/>Val emerges from the war-smoke, his eyes shining like jewels beneath the rim of his battered helmet. <quote>We have triumphed, Lone Wolf. We have vanquished the foe!</quote></p>
- <p>All around you, the captain<ch.apos/>s men are rebuilding the barricade and tending to their wounded comrades. It sorrows you to see Sommlending dead, but you take heart at how few they are beside the enemy<ch.apos/>s losses.</p>
- <p>The captain ushers you to the watchtower where your wounds are cleaned and dressed with Laumspur. The herbs restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p><quote>We have beaten this foe, but I fear that it is but a temporary reprieve,</quote> says the captain, his face now composed and sombre. <quote>The sacrifice of Baron Vanalund<ch.apos/>s daughter must be stopped if we are to avoid catastrophe, for our strength will not avail us against a foe freshly risen from the grave.</quote></p>
- <p>The words of the verse flood into your mind and a chill runs down your spine as you realize what may lie ahead. In three days<ch.apos/> time, when the moon is full, Barraka will sacrifice the Baron<ch.apos/>s daughter at the buried temple of Maaken, a sacrifice that will unleash the dead of Maakengorge<ch.emdash/>the chasm of doom. You know you must prevent the sacrifice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway down the ramp when a guard turns to face you. He blinks and rubs his bloodshot eyes in disbelief. You seize your advantage and sprint at the man, hoping to reach him before he fully comes to his senses. Just as he begins to shout, you strike and send him tumbling over the edge of the ramp. The other guard draws his sword and staggers to his feet. He is obviously very drunk and is maddened by your attack<ch.emdash/>he springs towards you like a rabid dog.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drunken Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect81">You can evade combat at any time by running into the tunnel on this level. <link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You send three of your men into the valley with orders to scout the highway and its forested borders for bandits. Before the scouts leave, you remind them to report back within two hours.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. In spite of their fatigue, your men are now alert and ready for action, for it has been over three hours since your scouts departed and not one of them has yet returned.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to send three more scouts into the wooded valley, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to wait until dawn before you investigate their disappearance, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you decide that it is far too dangerous to stay here, you can still ride east towards the town of Eshnar by <link-text>turning to 92</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dusk soon enshrouds the beleaguered outpost of Ruanon and you use the cover of darkness to cross the body-strewn plain towards the south. An old highway trails off to Maaken but it is choked with Vassagonian warriors. They stand about in sullen groups, tending their wounded and brooding on their defeat; however, even demoralized and dejected, they are still a deadly foe. It will be too dangerous to risk passing through their ranks, so you must use the forest to conceal your passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to venture through the trees to the right of the highway, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to pass through the trees to the left, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have not ridden far when a storm cloud breaks directly overhead and torrential rain crashes down. Within minutes, the dry and dusty highway is transformed into a quagmire. It will be impossible to set up camp in this storm, so you resolve to continue to ride all night in the hope that the storm will soon pass. During your night ride you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>By morning the rain has ceased, but you and your men are now very tired from the ordeal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dawn arrives, rain-swept and gloom-laden. A pall of drizzle hangs over the ghost city and the gruesome discord of the wailing winds of Maakengorge make you feel uneasy. You watch and wait, your Kai cloak drawn close about your shoulders to keep out the chill, damp air.</p>
- <p>It was here, during the Age of the Black Moon, that King Ulnar of Sommerlund killed the mightiest of the Darklords<ch.emdash/>Lord Vashna. In mortal combat upon the very brink of the abyss, the Darklord was slain by the Sommerswerd. It is said that his death-cry when he fell will echo through the gorge until the day he rises to wreak his vengeance on Sommerlund and the House of Ulnar. Your stomach contracts at the thought that this could be that very day.</p>
- <p>For five hours you observe and take in every detail of the ruined city. The first line of the strange verse keeps repeating itself in your mind. <quote>When the full moon shines o<ch.apos/>er the temple deep<ch.ellips/></quote> The temple must be underground and there must be an entrance to it<ch.emdash/>but where?</p>
- <p>You study every crack in the broken ground and eliminate all but two possibilities: a crypt door guarded by two Vassagonian warriors and a flight of marble steps descending into the earth between two columns of fractured pillars.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>The crypt door is guarded by</line><line> two Vassagonian warriors</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="648" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="648" />
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to try to enter the temple through the guarded crypt door, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to try to enter the temple via the unguarded marble stairs, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter how hard you strike the prop, it will not fall. Suddenly your pursuers charge out of the gloomy tunnel and attack you.</p>
- <p>Although there are only two pursuers, others are close behind. You must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you manage to kill the first guard, you can evade further combat by <link-text>turning to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you kill both guards in combat, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You vault over the edge of the wagon and run, little dreaming of what lies ahead. The causeway wall is high and you cannot stop yourself in time from falling over the edge. You crash head first into a quarry over one hundred feet below, glimpsing the horrified expression of your unknown friend as you fall.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel descends for miles into solid rock. You are occasionally startled by unexpected swarms of glowing mine flies or fluttering bats swooping out of the darkness, attracted by your body heat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You eventually reach a chamber where a small wooden hut has been built against the wall. You are now desperately tired and in need of sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to rest in the hut, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to press on regardless of fatigue, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bandit tumbles into the rushing water and disappears from view. You leap from stone to stone in pursuit of the two bandits who have survived the ambush and who are now scurrying off towards the far bank to alert the other bandits inside the wagon. As the bandits emerge from the wagon, to your horror, you notice they are all armed with bows which they train upon your advancing rangers with deadly precision.</p>
- <p>As you shout a warning, an iron-tipped shaft creases your scalp and you are knocked backwards into the swift dark waters of the River Xane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard hears you approaching and spins round. He stares at you aghast and unsheathes his sword. Due to the surprise of your attack, you may ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in the first round of combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bridge Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>To me! To me!</quote> Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s voice booms out above the battle noise. <quote>Rally to me, Sommlending.</quote></p>
- <p>The brave captain draws about him a shielded wedge of soldiers and charges into the flank of the horsemen. They reel and buckle as the shield-wedge hews its way through their company. A Vassagonian herald, his crimson armour torn and his face smeared with blood, breaks free from the battle and sounds the retreat. You watch as the surviving bandits spur their mounts to the gallop, desperate to escape through the ragged hole in the barricade. Gripped by panic and fatigue, they ride through their own foot soldiers who are advancing to support them. The infantry falter and collapse as the cavalry ride them down.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>A Vassagonian herald breaks free from</line><line> the battle and sounds the retreat</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="650" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="650" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Captain D<ch.apos/>Val leads his men to the barricade and directs a lethal volley of arrows into the shattered infantry. It is the last straw. They throw down their weapons and flee from the clouds of arrows raining down on them from out of the smoke-filled sky.</p>
- <p>A battle-cry, proud and strident pursues them across the plain: <quote>For Sommerlund, for Sommerlund!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dreadful feeling of guilt sweeps over you as you recognize these amulets. They are the symbols of a holy order of monks known as <quote>The Redeemers</quote>, a silent order devoted to pilgrimage, prayer and the healing arts.</p>
- <p>You curse your hasty action and carefully replace the amulets around the necks of the holy men.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
-
- <p>The tracks lead to the overgrown entrance of a mine tunnel. You peer into the gloomy passage to see that many of the beams and props that once supported the roof have now collapsed. Mounds of moss-covered earth litter the tunnel floor, and a rivulet of ore-stained water trickles a winding course around them.</p>
-
- <p>The hoof prints end at the entrance but two sets of footprints continue into the mine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to send your men in search of the missing horses, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to follow the footprints into the mine, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to call off the search, you can return along the hill track by <link-text>turning to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The floor of the tunnel is covered with the decaying remains of rodents. The sound of cracking bones makes you wince with disgust as you and your men step gingerly through the foul-smelling debris.</p>
- <p>You reach a section where the tunnel curves abruptly to the east, revealing the reflections of torchlight on the rough stone walls. A quick check ahead confirms your suspicions; two armour-clad warriors stand guard at a well sunk into a torchlit chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you wish to signal to your men to attack the guards, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect197">If you wish to try to lure them into the tunnel and capture them alive, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A quick search of the body reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>6 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Enough food for two Meals</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>You may take any of these items but remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>As you turn to enter the tunnel, a guard appears on the ramp below. He sees you and sounds the alarm by blowing on a war-horn strung around his neck. You do not stay to witness the response to his alarm signal. With its sound ringing in your ears you escape into the tunnel at a run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the shaft and it whistles towards the bandit leader, but he sees its deadly approach and raises his polished steel shield. Your heart sinks as the arrow is turned aside; it shatters harmlessly against the watchtower wall. Before you can fire again, the bow is suddenly kicked from your grasp. You are confronted by an armoured warrior. He stands above you on the barricade wall, and you cannot evade his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You sheathed your weapon in order to use the bow, but unfortunately the warrior attacks before you can draw it to defend yourself. Therefore you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first two rounds of combat. If you are still alive by the third round, you manage to unsheathe your weapon and retaliate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>When you are certain that the bandits are no longer in pursuit, you halt to rally your tired and tattered company. Only ten men have survived the battle; the rest have either been captured or been killed before they could escape. With the highway to Sommerlund now cut off by bandits, you have no choice but to continue southwards.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Beyond the approaching Warhound pack, you can see that a dozen bandit archers are closing in. If you were to survive the rending jaws of the Warhounds, the archers would be sure to pick you off with ease. Without wasting a second, you turn towards Ruanon and run as fast as your legs will carry you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225"><link-text>Turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel soon arrives at the base of a mine shaft where a ladder is fixed to the wall. This ascends to another tunnel thirty feet above, which disappears into the west wall. There is no other exit from the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to climb the ladder to the level above <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you decide to retrace your steps back to the previous chamber and take the south tunnel, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are now so tired that you are forced to stop and sleep. Many hours pass before you awake, totally refreshed. Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point and continue your exploration of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your stomach turns as the boat lurches forward into space. You tumble for what seems like an eternity before hitting deep water head first. The impact is so sudden and so hard that you are concussed and slip into unconsciousness. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When you awake, you find yourself lying face down in mud and gravel. Your head is pounding and your lungs feel as if they are on fire. You have lost your Backpack and all that it contained. Although your vision is hazy and blurred, you are quick to realize that you are alone. No trace of your men or your boat remain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lie with your face pressed close to the crop roots, your breath held and your nerves stretched as taut as bowstrings, waiting for the patrol to pass.</p>
- <p>Hundreds of minute creatures busily file up and down the yellowed stalks. Your whole body begins to prickle as you imagine they are swarming up your legs, up your sleeves and down the neck of your tunic. When a trickle of sweat runs down your cheek, you nearly cry out and reveal your hiding place.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small15.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small15.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The bandits amble past barely inches from where you hide, totally oblivious to your presence. When you are sure they are no longer on the track, you jump up and frantically scratch at your itching skin. To your horror, you discover that your legs are covered with crawling insects feasting on your blood. Ripping your clothes off, you empty them from your boots and scrape them from your skin before hurrying off along the track. The blood-sucking insects have robbed you of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An escort of five rangers accompanies you along the twisting narrow track that leads to the hut. The rough stone walls are covered with a damp moss into which is set a curious oval door. There are no windows. You have dismounted and are approaching the door when suddenly a man<ch.apos/>s voice calls from inside the hut: <quote>Come in, Lone Wolf, I<ch.apos/>ve been expecting you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to open the door and enter, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to draw your weapon and kick open the door, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to send your rangers into the hut, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Raising the hood of your Kai cloak, you crouch in the bottom of an empty ore wagon and wait with bated breath. Through a gap in the wood you can see a haggard procession of men shuffling towards you. An escort of bandit warriors pushes them forward, beating any who falter or slip out of line. You <!--ERRTAG-RE-184995-->feel a sudden jolt<!--/ERRTAG-RE-184995--> as your wagon is pushed along the tunnel and glance up to see a sweat-streaked face peering down at you. <quote>Run left when I say <quote>Go</quote>,</quote> whispers the face, then disappears over the edge of the wagon.</p>
- <p>As the wagon emerges from the tunnel, sunlight suddenly floods over you. Through the crack you can now see your destination; the wagons are being shunted <!--ERRTAG-RE-185667-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-185667--> a timber gantry where the track ends some fifty feet above a huge mound of ore. Your observations are cut short by a hissed command: <quote>Go!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to leap from the wagon and run to the left, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to jump from the wagon and run to the right, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you decide to ignore the command and stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two mine tunnels lead out of the chamber. One heads towards the west, the other towards the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to go west, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to go south, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run from the Vassagonian but trip over a broken wagon wheel and tumble to the ground. You hear the warrior<ch.apos/>s malicious laugh as he draws back his sword to strike, but the laugh suddenly changes to a ghastly howl.</p>
-
-
- <p>You watch him slump to the ground, a Sommlending arrow deep in the nape of his neck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the shrill blast of a war-horn makes your blood freeze. Red-clad bandit warriors suddenly leap from the dense foliage and charge towards your men. The odds are against you, for you are outnumbered by at least three to one. There may be no escape from this deadly ambush.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to rally your men to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you decide to order a hasty retreat into the mine, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the troubadours<ch.apos/> stage in time for a meal that has been prepared by your hosts. The steaming broth smells most appetising.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to accept the meal, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you decline the food, you must now eat a Meal from your Backpack or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. <link-text>Turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the wagon is full of sleeping bandits. Should they awake before you cross the river undetected or before you silence all six of the bandits who are fishing, you and your men will be hard-pressed to avoid death or capture. You decide that the risks are too great to attempt a crossing here and signal to your men to follow you eastwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232"><link-text>Turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect167-1-foot" idref="sect167-1">
- <p>If you wish to keep the Shovel, it takes up two spaces in your Backpack (cf. <a idref="sect213">Section 213</a>, <a idref="sect269">Section 269</a>, and <a idref="sect322">Section 322</a>).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your delight you discover a miner<ch.apos/>s Backpack and a Shovel<footref id="sect167-1" idref="sect167-1-foot"/> lying in the bottom of the mine wagon. Inside the Backpack is enough food for one Meal. You slip the Backpack over your shoulders before attempting to climb the steep service tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">Make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You break open the two halves of your Kalte Firesphere and hold the flaming hemispheres high as you advance deeper into the vault. You gasp as you spot a hideous black-skinned creature perched on a rail near the ceiling. Dull, satanic eyes follow your every move, and its mouth opens and closes, shouting silent curses. Suddenly, it glides down from its perch and attacks.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Dull, satanic eyes follow your every move </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="704" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="704" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you part the dense foliage, you suddenly topple headlong over the edge of a steep drop and fall with a crash <!--ERRTAG-RE-191298-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-191298--> a wide forest track below. Less than ten feet away kneels a bandit examining the hoof of his horse and prising out a sharp stone from the animal<ch.apos/>s shoe with a long, curved dagger. The noise of your fall alerts him, and he turns with his weapon raised for attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you win the combat, you notice that a group of bandits are closing in from the north. You spot them just in time to make a hasty escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123"><link-text>Turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the spiral stairs for over five minutes before reaching the next level. Here, a tunnel leads off towards the south. You march along the dank passage until you reach a point where it veers sharply to the west. A little further on, a staircase descends to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to descend the staircase, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you wish to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect171-1-foot" idref="sect171-1">
- <p>You have entered the Wildlands south of the Pass of Moytura. You cannot use Hunting to fulfil Meal requirements in this desolate area.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mile after mile, you ride across the flat and desolate landscape surrounding the Ruanon Pike.<footref id="sect171-1" idref="sect171-1-foot"/> Yet in spite of the uninspiring view, your men seem in fine spirits. They sing rousing marching songs to relieve the tedium of the journey and help to allay fears of what may lie ahead. During the afternoon, storm clouds gather above the peaks of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-193043-->Durncrag Mountains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-193043--> to the west, and the roll of distant thunder warns of imminent rain.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small23.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small23.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It is late afternoon when your scouts sight a coaching tavern on the highway ahead. It is a large stone building that has been fortified.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to stop at the tavern for the night, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you decide to brave a possible storm and continue to ride south, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the eastern accent in their voices. They are Vassagonian bandit warriors. There are at least four of them in the room beyond, and they are discussing what to do about an intruder in the mines. You decide that discretion is by far the better part of valour and return to the gallery. You make sure that you are not being followed and enter the wagon tunnel in the west wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>The wooden pillar is stout and firm; it will take a heavy blow to dislodge it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess the Sommerswerd pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess either a Pick or a Shovel, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If it is 7<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>More enemy warriors are clambering across the shattered barricade towards you. You throw down your bow and run to a large water cask, which is being defended by a stout Sommlending sergeant. The ground around the cask is carpeted with enemy dead.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Shoot the leader!</quote> you command, pointing towards the enemy officer. The sergeant aims and fires his bow with one swift and fluid movement. The arrow arcs through the smoke-blackened sky and pierces the officer<ch.apos/>s shiny breastplate. Slowly his cruel eyes flicker and close, and he slips from his saddle with the arrow lodged deep in his heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than a mile when disaster strikes. Without warning, a ranger in front of you lets out a piercing cry; a disc of razor-sharp steel has sunk into his chest. More of the deadly discs cut the air, whistling past you on all sides. Before you all fall prey to the hidden assassins, you lead your men away at a gallop.</p>
- <p>When you finally rein in your sweating horse, you are more than two miles from the scene of the ambush, and only four of your men remain at your side. Your halt must be brief, for the enemy may already be in pursuit. With the terrible sound of the deadly steel discs still ringing in your ears, you lead the remnants of your company southwards along the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a bone-jarring crunch, your horse crashes into the flank of a bandit steed, and you are hurled head over heels to the ground. You are stunned by the shock of impact and fail to see the blade that bites into your shoulder. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before turning to face your attacker. You cannot evade combat and must fight your adversary to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you win, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken just one step into the cavern when a blow on the back of your head knocks you senseless. You were seen at the junction by two guards who prepared this ambush for you. Your equipment is taken and your unconscious body bound by Barraka<ch.apos/>s men, who throw you into a cell.</p>
- <p>You are unable to stop the sacrifice. When the time comes for your cell door to open, it is the bony hand of a skeleton that turns the key.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the loathsome creature away from the ranger only to find that the man is dead. The Elix has already sunk its needle-like teeth into the poor man<ch.apos/>s heart.</p>
- <p>Grabbing your weapon you turn to help the other man who is now being attacked by two of the giant war-cats. A third Elix pounces at you as you run across the chamber, but you strike it in mid-air, sending it tumbling into the well.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The prop begins to splinter and break in two. A shudder runs through the floor, making you stumble and fall, but you quickly regain your footing. As you sprint to safety, a deluge of earth and stone pours into the tunnel behind. A shock wave from the blast hits you squarely in the back and flattens you to the floor; the air is choked with dust. You stagger to your feet and press on, but it takes you half an hour to reach a section of the tunnel where the air is clear and still and the torches are still burning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the far side of the boathouse, a narrow slipway descends to a door at river level. One of your men hurries over and raises the stout drawbar while the others carry the rowing boat down the ramp. You push off and clamber aboard, emerging from the boathouse with such a jolt that you are thrown forward in a heap. By the time you have disentangled yourselves, the boat is firmly in the grip of the river current. You grab an oar and fight to keep the boat in the centre of the rushing water as it speeds on its course through the foothills of the Maaken range. But no sooner has the boat been brought under control than you are confronted by an unexpected hazard: ahead of you the river suddenly disappears into the rock-face beneath a massive granite ledge. It is too late to avoid being swept into the inky black cavern, and as you glide into the darkness, you prepare yourself for any hidden dangers that may lurk inside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The twang of the sniper<ch.apos/>s bow and the hiss of an arrow are the last sounds that you hear in this world. The shaft punctures your skull and you die instantly.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wagons are drawn into a circle and you set up camp inside. A ranger is posted to patrol the perimeter. The troubadours construct a small stage <!--ERRTAG-RE-202189-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-202189--> which strides Yesu. He calls for silence before announcing the title of their play, <quote>The Brave Warriors of Sommerlund</quote>, a choice that meets with the hearty approval of your men.</p>
-
- <p>During the performance, you notice something very odd; not only is one of the actors using a real sword, but it is a type of sword only issued to officers of the Sommlending cavalry. After the play you approach the man to question him about the sword. He looks at you nervously and makes a dash for the darkness of the perimeter wagons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to give chase and have either the Kai Discipline of Tracking or Hunting, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect58">If you do not possess these skills but still wish to give chase, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you decide to let him go, return to your men by <link-text>turning to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to reach a tangle of briars growing near the crypt door, and from here you can observe the Vassagonian guards undetected. More soldiers appear on horseback, riding into Maaken from the north. They dismount and approach the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small17.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small17.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Password!</quote> shout the crypt guards.</p>
- <p><quote>Lohn,</quote> reply the soldiers. The door opens and they are allowed to enter.</p>
- <p>Armed with the password, you decide to try to enter in the same way. Keeping the hood of your cloak raised and your Sommlending features in shadow, you walk boldly towards the guards.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If it is 7<ch.endash/>13, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are barely ten yards from the enemy when they fire. Miraculously you are not hit, but you must now fight alone, as three of your men lie dead and the other can no longer fight<ch.emdash/>a bolt has shattered his wrist. As you attack, the fierce warriors discard their empty crossbows and draw their swords, and you find yourself being pushed back to the bridge by six angry swordsmen.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to fight them, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to dive over the parapet of the bridge to avoid them, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect185-1-foot" idref="sect185-1">
- <p>It is up to you to decide, but it seems that using Hunting in the Maaken Mines isn't realistic.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<footref id="sect185-1" idref="sect185-1-foot"/> You then continue along the tunnel, which runs for several miles before eventually arriving at a long, deserted gallery.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vassagonian bandits break cover and charge, and you give the order to fire. A cloud of arrows sweeps down upon the armour-clad men, the hardened tips penetrating their scarlet plate. The first wave of assailants tumbles and falls; the second wave falters. Another volley forces them back, and they retreat to the ruins to reorganize themselves.</p>
- <p>Here and there, groups of bandit warriors have survived the hail of death and reached the barricade. Most are slain as they try to enter, but a small and determined section of their boldest fighters have broken through close to where you stand. Suddenly, a thick-bodied warrior with oily, black hair tied in a knot at the back of his scarred head leaps <!--ERRTAG-RE-207197-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-207197--> the wagon and attacks you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">You can evade combat at any time by jumping from the wagon. <link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Discarding your torch as you emerge into the early morning sun, you signal to your men to gather round. Only a small fraction of your original company remains, and you must now decide the best course of action. However, as you are about to address them you are rudely interrupted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164"><link-text>Turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You order your men to prepare graves for the two corpses before returning to the shelter of the marble canopy. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You mount guard around the ruined temple and preparations are made for some much needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to row the shattered boat towards the far bank, but as the oars dip below the surface they are wrenched from your grasp. Wide-eyed with horror, you watch as a ranger is dragged screaming into the dark river by a thick slimy tentacle. Suddenly, there is a tremendous crack as another tentacle punches its way up through the hull. The attack is so violent that the rowing boat is lifted into the air, and you tumble head over heels into the icy water.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge from the tunnel, curse your delay, and press on along the other passage as quickly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a junction where the track meets the main highway. Abandoned at the side of the road is a burnt-out wagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to examine the wagon, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you decide to ignore the wreck, you can continue your ride south along the highway, by <link-text>turning to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than five feet from the door when a bandit warrior comes rushing in. Instinctively, you step aside but not in time to avoid the serrated tip of his halberd. The cold steel sinks into your chest, and you stare down in horror as blood begins to flow and pain spreads through your body. Your wound is fatal and you die within seconds of hitting the floor.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The snarling Warhounds bound towards the barricade, their gaping eyes glowing crimson in the light of battle. Leaping from the bodies of the dead and dying, they launch themselves at the Sommlending defenders. All around you, soldiers are being torn from the line, bowled over by the leaping Warhounds. You back away as a howling dog crashes through the wall of sacks and barrels, but before it has risen you move swiftly forward and despatch it with one blow to the head. Another Warhound claws your back and pitches you forward into the collapsed barricade, but before you can free yourself, yet two more dogs have sunk their fangs into your leg.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The snarling Warhounds bound towards the barricade </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="605" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="605" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warhounds</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <choice idref="sect311">If you are still alive after two rounds of combat or if you have won in the first two rounds, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are winded by the blow to your chest and flung backwards into the icy cold water. You surface, but barely in time to catch a breath before a tentacle coils around your legs and drags you down.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and note this number down in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (In this case 0 = 10 instead of zero). This number represents the number of combat rounds that you can endure underwater before you begin to lose additional <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to lack of oxygen. If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, you can add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Meresquid</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">37</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Fight this combat in the normal way. If the fight lasts longer than the number of rounds you can endure underwater, you will lose an additional 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round of combat thereafter due to lack of oxygen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the thud of a heavy drawbar sliding back, and a burly man dressed in a leather jerkin appears at the tavern door. <quote>Welcome to my humble inn, my lord. Pardon my suspicion, but this is a very dangerous area; one mistake can cost us our lives.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small18.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small18.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You signal to your men to stable their horses, and you follow the innkeeper into his tavern. The bar looks more like an armoury than a drinking hall. Quivers of arrows stand beside each of the iron-studded window shutters, and racks of spears line the far wall. The place is deserted except for three young men who all bear a strong resemblance to the tavern-keeper. One of them has his head swathed in bandages.</p>
- <p>You ask the tavern-keeper how much he will charge for your men to billet here tonight and are quite surprised to hear his reply. <quote>Nothing,</quote> he says, moving tables aside so that your rangers can sleep upon the tavern floor. <quote>Your presence here tonight will be worth more than gold to us. We<ch.apos/>ve been attacked by bandits every night since the last full moon.</quote></p>
- <p>As the last of your men return from the stables, the doors are closed and barred. It has started to rain and your men seem greatly relieved to be inside where it is warm and dry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to question the tavern-keeper about the nature of the bandit raids, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to question him about any news that he may have heard about Ruanon in the last month, then <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you do not wish to question the man further, you can prepare for a night<ch.apos/>s sleep and <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bolt of lightning gashes the stormy sky, illuminating the figures of the bandits as they creep into the stables. Crouching on the balcony, you signal to your men to prepare themselves. Dropping <!--ERRTAG-RE-216359-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216359--> the stable roof, you discover to your dismay that the clay tiles are wafer-thin and splinter beneath your weight; you crash straight through the flimsy roof into the hay below. Luckily you are unharmed by the fall and quickly regain your feet, but a bandit stands barely inches from your face, his sword raised to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you win, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You toss a rock along the tunnel to attract the guards<ch.apos/> attention. It works! Within seconds you can hear footsteps approaching. You attack. The guards barely have time to gasp, and your men leap out of the darkness and overpower them. Once disarmed, their hands are tied and they are herded back into the well chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to search them, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to question them, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to leave them and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards are not fooled by your bravado<ch.emdash/>they draw their weapons and attack. You must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon enter a chamber divided by a deep mine shaft. Spanning the shaft is a wooden bridge at the entrance of which a swarthy warrior stands guard. He has been alerted by the screams of your pursuers, and as soon as he sees you, he runs towards a rope that hangs from the ceiling, leaving the bridge unguarded. Your pursuers are nearly upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to sprint across the bridge, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to attack the guard to prevent him from reaching the rope, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trees are alive with bandit patrols, but your quick wits and Kai skills prevent you from being seen by them. Eventually you reach the edge of the copse. You find yourself staring out across an expanse of open plain towards Ruanon. The sight that lies before you is very disquieting.</p>
- <p>Much of the mining town has been burnt to the ground. The blackened ruins of what were once shops, cottages and taverns are now little more than smouldering mounds of charcoal. You are beginning to fear the worst, that Ruanon has been totally destroyed, when a gentle breeze clears the haze of wood smoke hanging like a grey curtain over the ruins. Inside the perimeter of ruined buildings, a barricade has been thrown up around a tower of stone. Above the tower, a tattered flag still flies bringing renewed hope; it is the sun-flag of Sommerlund edged with a band of white braid<ch.emdash/>the cavalry standard of the King<ch.apos/>s Guard Regiment.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small19.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small19.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The sudden crack of a twig makes you freeze. You glance behind to see three bandits creeping through the trees towards you. The wide steel tips of their spears glint. They seem to be coated with a clear, sticky fluid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Hunting or if you have ever visited Gorn Cove, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you wish to fight the bandits, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to evade them, you must run across the open plain towards Ruanon<ch.emdash/>eight hundred yards away. <link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fungi are soft and dry, and they taste dreadful! You retch and choke as the dry, powdery <!--ERRTAG-RE-220912-->fungi absorb<!--/ERRTAG-RE-220912--> all the saliva in your mouth. You are hit by waves of nausea that make you panic, and desperately you claw at your tongue trying to scrape the fungi from your mouth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65"><link-text>Turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There are six heavily armed guards and you must fight them one at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Guard 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Guard 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Guard 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Guard 5</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Guard 6</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect342">You can evade combat at any time by leaping from the bridge. <link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the guard falls dead at your feet, you spin around in time to see three of your pursuers enter the chamber. They are clad in heavy armour, and each of them carries a vicious-looking halberd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to fight them, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to escape across the bridge, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bypass a village with orange-wood cabins and stone walls, and climb through the tall fields towards a wooded ridge. Beyond the ridge, you enter thick forest and discover a bubbling freshwater stream. You drink deeply and realize how hungry you are. You must eat a Meal here or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As night falls you reach the city of Maaken. The gaunt, weed-infested ruins of this shattered city are spread like a vast graveyard and bathed in the eerie light of a near-full moon. A sound fills the air like the wailing of lost souls; it is the cry of Maakengorge.</p>
- <p>It has been nearly two days since you last slept and fatigue begins to overwhelm you. Drawing your Kai cloak about your shoulders, you settle down to sleep; you will need all your strength for the daunting task that lies ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The oval door crashes inwards, and a cloud of dust billows out of the hut.</p>
- <p><quote>I am alone,</quote> says a voice. <quote>You have nothing to fear from me.</quote></p>
- <p>Tightening your grip on your weapon, you cautiously enter the stone hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84"><link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the first light of dawn breaks over the eastern horizon, you scan the mist-shrouded highway for any sign of life. None of your scouts have returned, and your remaining four men are visibly anxious. With marauding bandit hordes to the north, hostile mountains to the west and a two-day ride to the nearest town to the east, your choice of action is limited.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to enter the valley by the highway, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to enter the valley under the cover of the forest, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch an arrow from a quiver hanging on the wall and draw the bowstring taut to your lips. A bandit horseman races across the plain with a javelin held high in his hand. His quarry is a wounded Sommlending soldier, who has fallen from the barricade and lies on the plain, unarmed and helpless. The bandit is poised to throw his javelin when you loose your arrow.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill (any weapon), add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If it is 5<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have run less than twenty yards when you reach the end of the tunnel<ch.emdash/>a solid rock-face. The passage has only recently been excavated, and you are now trapped in a dead end. You hear the footsteps of your pursuers and turn to face them, knowing only too well that your only chances of survival now rest on your ability to be able to fight your way out of this trap and make your way back to the junction where you can take the left-hand tunnel.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Guard 3</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you kill all three guards, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lance has tom through your cloak and pitched you <!--ERRTAG-RE-228193-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-228193--> your back. You scramble to your feet in time to see the horseman discard his splintered lance and draw a curved broadsword. A wicked smile spreads across his grim features, exposing a jagged line of blackened teeth. He spits out his battle-cry and spurs his horse towards you once more.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>He spits out his battle-cry and</line><line> spurs his horse towards you once more</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="651" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="651" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you have reached the Kai rank of Aspirant or higher, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have a very uneasy feeling about this town. So far you have only seen women and children shuffling along the street; there has been no sign of any men whatsoever. The inhabitants all seem nervous and avoid looking you directly in the eye. Instinct tells you to turn around and leave as quickly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to follow your instincts, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to press on regardless of your instincts, you can investigate the tavern by <link-text>turning to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Your tactics have worked. The bandits ignore your small group of horsemen and pursue the others towards the west. Once they reach the wooded foothills of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-229695-->Durncrag Mountains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229695-->, your rangers will have no difficulty evading the enemy among the densely packed firs.</p>
- <p>When the bandits have disappeared from view, you call a halt and allow your men to rest. In spite of the number of men you have lost, they are still eager to continue the mission.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An overwhelming stench of dampness and decay pervades the shaft. You decide to send one of your men up the ladder to make sure that it is still secure. All seems well, for he soon reaches the next level and signals you all to follow. The tunnel on the upper level leads to an oval-shaped, rough-hewn chamber where a strange silky fluid coats the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you do not possess this skill, search for an exit from the chamber, and <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
-
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A thorough search uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Pickaxe</li>
- <li>Shovel</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Torch</li>
- <li>Tinderbox</li>
- <li>Hourglass</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (The Pickaxe and the Shovel each occupy the same amount of space in your Backpack as two normal Items.)</p>
- <p>After satisfying yourself that there is nothing else of use in the boathouse, you order your men to launch the rowing boat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can feel a current of dank, cold air against your face as you walk along the tunnel. The rock walls sparkle with a glistening ore that catches the light from your torch and reflects it in a dazzling display of colours. Fatigue and the distraction of the dancing lights make you oblivious to the fungi in which you now stand. A cloud of pink spores is beginning to rise, clogging your mouth and nostrils and threatening to suffocate you unless you act quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to run along the tunnel to avoid the spores, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you decide to go back to the chamber and take the south tunnel, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Barraka carries the stench of death and decay about him. He strides into the temple, his boots of Gourgaz hide covering both legs and feet, and slams shut the huge stone door with frightening ease. He stands in silence before pushing open the huge black doors engraved with the menacing skulls. Suddenly a gale force wind sweeps through the temple and your ears are filled by a terrible scream. Beyond the open doors, a pier of stone juts into the abyss of Maakengorge: you are staring into the chasm of doom.</p>
- <p>Barraka turns away from the windswept pier and walks slowly towards the altar. From a hidden scabbard he removes a twisted black dagger and holds its stiletto blade to the light. An evil blue flame runs up and down the black steel spike, flickering in the ice-cold winds of Maakengorge. The sacrifice is about to begin.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small20.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small20.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to draw your weapon and attack Barraka, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to distract his attention from the altar without attacking him, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is little that can be done to help the injured ranger. Tentacles now engulf the rowing boat from all sides and threaten to drag you all to a watery grave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to help the other ranger who is now being dragged from the boat by his foot, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to grab the oars and row for the other side of the river, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your men cheer with delight at your victory and drop through the stable roof to join you. A hard battle follows but the bandits are soon cleared from the stables and chased away into the stormy night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow flies straight and true towards the bandit, striking home beneath his raised arm. He screams and falls backwards, impaling himself on his own javelin as he crashes to the ground. You are about to draw another arrow when you see a menacing black shape dart across the sky; it plummets downwards and lands on the watchtower roof. You discard your bow and unsheathe your weapon as you race up the stairs to investigate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>It takes half an hour for you to recover from your ordeal and to take in your new surroundings. You are standing at the edge of a huge slag-heap, which rises out of the dark waters of the underground river. Less than twenty feet from the summit, a dim light illuminates a long stone <!--ERRTAG-RE-236493-->chute<!--/ERRTAG-RE-236493-->. You decide to take a closer look. You soon discover that the climb is long, slow and arduous, and only after an hour of strenuous effort do you finally find yourself at the top in a small service tunnel. The tunnel is deserted except for a mine wagon parked near to the tunnel entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you wish to examine the wagon, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to ignore the wagon, begin to climb the steep tunnel by <link-text>turning to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>Your blow has unhorsed the bandit. He falls to the ground heavily, shattering his lance beneath him. He staggers to his feet and, raising the hinged eye-shield of his helm, he stares at you and smiles wickedly, exposing a jagged line of blackened teeth. He spits his battle-cry and runs towards you, unsheathing a broadsword as he closes in.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to fight the warrior, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a hall divided by a wide chasm. It is deathly quiet here, and even the slightest noise seems to echo around the grey-stone walls like a clash of cymbals. An arched bridge crosses the chasm and leads to a massive pair of stone doors. You are crossing the bridge when there is a deafening rumble. The doors are opening.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to draw your weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to flee from the bridge, run back along the tunnel and descend the stairs by <link-text>turning to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you would rather leap from the parapet of the bridge into the unknown depths of the chasm, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect222-1-foot" idref="sect222-1">
- <p>Make sure you keep note of this Sword's special significance. However, it still counts as a normal Sword for all combat purposes.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the plush candlelit interior of the caravan you find the actor, cowering beneath a blanket in the far corner. You flick the blanket aside and ask the petrified man to explain how he came to possess such a fine sword.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.ellips/> I bought it in Eshnar,</quote> he stammers, his eyes wide with fear, <quote>from the innkeeper of the <quote>Pick and Shovel</quote> tavern.</quote> He grasps the sword by the blade and offers it to you. <quote>If it is your sword I have unwittingly bought, I am truly sorry. Here, please take it.</quote></p>
- <p>You grip the brass hilt and examine it closely. There is no doubt: it is a Sommlending cavalry sword, but the inscription on the blade makes your heart miss a beat: <quote>Captain Remir D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.emdash/>King<ch.apos/>s Guard Regiment</quote>.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this sword, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Weapon.<footref id="sect222-1" idref="sect222-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pushing open the trapdoor, you climb out <!--ERRTAG-RE-240849-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-240849--> the watchtower roof. You are greeted by a shocking sight. The bodies of Sommlending soldiers lie scattered over the floor; their armour is rent and torn and they have all suffered terrible wounds. Over the carnage hovers a monstrous bird. Its wings beat the smoke-filled air, its razor-sharp talons slashing and mutilating everything they touch. Astride the creature sits a warrior wreathed in iron and steel, the scimitar in his hand stained with Sommlending blood. He swings one leg from his gem-encrusted saddle, pauses, and then leaps down to the watchtower roof. A voice echoes in your head as the warrior closes in.</p>
- <p><quote>Say your prayers, Sommlending, for your life is soon to end!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>Astride the creature sits a warrior</line><line> wreathed in iron and steel</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="657" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="657" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you wish to fight the warrior, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
-
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can hear the harsh breath of the guards close behind you. Suddenly, the tunnel narrows and divides in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you possess either the Kai Discipline of Tracking or Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to enter the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to enter the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to ignore your aching legs and the fear that knots your stomach by forcing your concentration on the sun-flag, a fluttering symbol of hope in the distance. Your face is streaked with sweat, and your lungs feel as though they will burst, but you dare not slacken your pace; the thought of Warhound fangs closing and tugging on your skin is all you need to drive you forward.</p>
- <p>At four hundred yards, you can see that the barricade and watchtower are inhabited, but at this distance the faces you can see are only a line of small, pink dots on the walls. At three hundred yards, you run into some gruesome remains, where the corpses of bandits lie twisted on the ground, most killed by arrows. Many have lain in the open for weeks; a flock of startled carrion crows rise shrieking from their feast as you race through the bodies. You turn away in disgust.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a new sound drifts across the plain: the sound of cheering. The beleaguered defenders have spotted you and recognized your green Kai cloak. Two hundred yards to go. You have just passed the ruins of a burnt-out cottage when you feel an agonizing pain tear through your left thigh. An arrow has pierced your leg, and you pitch forward into the mud and ash.</p>
- <p>Crouched in the ruined cottage, a bandit sniper raises his bow and takes careful aim at your head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If the number you have picked is 1<ch.endash/>5, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If it is 6<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If it is 0, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ruanon forest is a tangle of pale grey tree trunks of every shape and size. Passage through these densely packed, mist-enshrouded trees is painfully slow on horseback, and you are soon forced to dismount and lead your horse by the reins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to continue making slow progress through the forest, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you decide to forsake the forest and press on along the highway instead, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>You identify the birds as carrion crows, a despicable breed of Wildland scavengers. Whenever a creature lies dead in the wastelands you can be sure to find a host of these loathsome predators.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you decide to take a closer look at what they are eating, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you would rather ignore them and continue your ride, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs lead directly to a lower level of the mines where a tunnel leads off to the south. You have followed this new route for nearly a mile when you arrive in a large hall. Several huge casks line the west wall, and at the far end you can see a door set into the arch of a wide staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to enter the hall and advance towards the door, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to make for the stairs, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the bodies into the thorny briars and conceal them before entering the crypt door. Once inside, you close the door behind you and follow a wide torchlit corridor towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You make a search of the bodies and find:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>9 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of these items, but be sure to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Muffled footsteps make you glance nervously along the tunnel. Two guards are trying to creep up on you under cover of the shadows, but you turn and run before they can attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attack is swift and deadly. The guard expires before his head hits the ground. A search of his clothing reveals:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take whatever you wish before you cross the bridge, but remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. As you reach the far side, you hear the sound of running footsteps in the distance. You decide not to wait to see who it is and quickly enter the tunnel in the west wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the river back towards the Ruanon bridge, taking care to stay hidden from the bandit horsemen who now stand guard on the bridge itself. A few hundred yards beyond, you find a narrow track leading to a ramshackle boathouse. If it contains a boat, you should be able to cross the river quite easily.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small21.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small21.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to investigate the boathouse, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to continue downstream and look for some other way to cross the river, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your rest is disturbed by the anxious shout of the night guard: <quote>Awake! Awake! We<ch.apos/>re under attack!</quote></p>
- <p>Throwing back their blankets, your men leap to their feet, peering through the teeming rain at the shadowy silhouette of horsemen circling the ruins. Suddenly an arrow whistles through the darkness. Your lookout screams and falls to his knees. <quote>Form a circle,</quote> you shout. <quote>Keep behind cover!</quote></p>
- <p>The rangers gather swords and shields and press themselves against the wet temple marble for protection. The sound of metal-shod boots on stone makes you spin around. A dozen warriors dressed in shiny red armour are clambering across the broken pillars. Two rangers run to block their advance, but they are felled by one sweep of the warrior leader<ch.apos/>s broadsword. Then the warrior sees you and quickens his pace. His bloodied sword is raised to strike again. You cannot evade combat and must fight the warrior to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you win, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You barely have time to catch a breath before a tentacle coils around your legs and drags you down.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and note this number down in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (In this instance. 0 = 10.) This number represents the number of combat rounds you can survive underwater before you begin to lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to lack of oxygen. If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, you can add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
-
- <combat><enemy>Giant Meresquid</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">37</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Fight this combat as normal. If it lasts longer than the number of rounds that you can endure safely underwater, you must deduct an additional 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round thereafter, due to lack of oxygen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor ends at a flight of steps that descends a hundred feet into the earth. At the bottom, a short passage leads to a junction where a tunnel runs from north to south. To the north you can see a torchlit cavern with what appear to be observation slits carved into the wall; to the south a passage leads towards a low balcony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to investigate the torchlit cavern, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to take a look over the low balcony, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are approaching a large outbuilding when you hear a muffled voice. Suddenly the door bursts open to reveal two bandit warriors, their bows raised; arrows fly and rangers fall from their horses. Drawing your weapon, you charge your attackers, but the other bandits appear from every side, and your men are caught in a murderous crossfire.</p>
- <p>However, the speed of your attack panics the bowmen. They turn to run but you cut them down before they have taken a few steps. Then a dark-skinned warrior with black oily hair appears at a window opposite. He flicks his hand, and a knife thuds into your arm. You lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gritting your teeth, you wrench the blade free and hurl it back. The bandit dies instantly. Clutching your wounded arm, you stagger through the building and escape through a rear door. The land that faces you now is steep and heavily forested.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to run straight into the forest, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you want to change direction as soon as you are hidden from sight, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodies of your enemies lie entwined at your feet. You jump down from the parapet and run towards the open stone door, anxious to leave the bridge before the carnage is discovered. Beyond the doors, a ramp gently descends towards a tunnel in the west wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Placing your hands on the injured man<ch.apos/>s chest, you use your healing powers to numb the pain before withdrawing the arrow. He is a lucky man; the arrow has not pierced any internal organs. Your Kai skill repairs the punctured flesh in seconds, and you help the man to his feet. With a look of open-mouthed amazement, he watches as you turn and ascend the stone steps to the watchtower roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>They<ch.apos/>re no ordinary bandits, they<ch.apos/>re a private army. Their leader is a renegade noble from Vassagonia called Barraka, though his men call him <quote>Doomslayer</quote>. After the first raid we thought he and his men would leave us alone<ch.emdash/>after all, this is a poor province even when the road carries traffic from the mines of Ruanon and Eshnar. But <quote>Doomslayer</quote> and his men have stayed. It<ch.apos/>s<ch.ellips/> it<ch.apos/>s as if they are determined to kill us at all costs.</quote></p>
- <p>That night, the tavern-keeper<ch.apos/>s sons agree to take it in turns to sit watch at the arrow slits, so that you and your men can get some sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For over ten miles, the river wends its steady course southwards. You pass through several grottos, but their rocky banks are so steep that they make a landing impossible. You are rowing along a particularly wide tunnel when you suddenly realize that the boat is moving faster and faster, and the faint sound of rushing water is gradually increasing. Soon the whole tunnel is filled with a thundering cacophony of noise.</p>
- <p>You brace yourself in preparation for rough water, but you are totally unprepared for the sight that befalls you. Less than fifty feet away, the river disappears over the edge of a massive waterfall. Desperately your men row against the current towards the tunnel wall, but it is too late: you are caught in the current and are hurtling towards the edge of the waterfall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If the number that you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect241-1-foot" idref="sect241-1">
- <p><a idref="sect309">Section 309</a> assumes that your men are all missing or dead. This represents a serious flaw in the story flow since you are still accompanied by some of your men. You may choose to turn to <a idref="sect8">Section 8</a> instead which is a geographically flawed correction, but does continue the story with your current company.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ceiling of the cavern is so low that you are forced to all press yourselves against the bottom of the boat to avoid head injuries. For nearly an hour the boat is swept through a maze of underground waterways before coming to a sudden halt; you are grounded upon a bank of shingle. You are in a section of the tunnel that is much higher than any you have previously travelled. To the south the river continues into the rock-face, but to the east you notice another shingle bank and a land tunnel beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to row across to the other bank, abandon the boat and continue on foot, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.<footref id="sect241-1" idref="sect241-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to continue by river, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You roll aside to avoid the deadly disc, but your reactions are not quick enough to save you. The razor-sharp weapon slices into your throat, knocking you backwards with the force of impact.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>D<ch.apos/>Val runs past the wagon, leading a dozen of his best swordsmen in a countercharge and driving the enemy all the way back to the barricade. None escape alive. Those who survive D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s swordsmen are cut down on the plain by his archers as they run towards the ruins. The shout of victory has barely died away before you are faced by a new threat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip past the guards and enter the tunnel unseen. It is wide and illuminated by a line of wall torches, whose guttering flames crackle and splutter noisily. You soon arrive at a junction where the tunnel narrows and divides in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense or Tracking, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you do not possess either of these skills, you may enter the left tunnel by <link-text>turning to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">Or, if you wish, you may enter the right tunnel by <link-text>turning to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect245-1-foot" idref="sect245-1">
- <p>Ignore the last sentence of the paragraph if you turned here from <a idref="sect178">Section 178</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two well-aimed blows are enough to despatch the hissing Elix. The ranger has collapsed and is nearly unconscious through loss of blood. His right foot is almost severed at the ankle; you know that he has only a few minutes to live and there is nothing that you can do to help him. Your other man is also now beyond all help.<footref id="sect245-1" idref="sect245-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to escape from the chamber by ascending the stairs, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to leave by descending the stairs, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking great care to feel the floor ahead of you with your weapon, you advance very slowly into the dark, unaware of the eyes that are watching your every move. Hidden in the gloom are the dull, satanic orbs of a Daemonak: a macabre and ghoulish vampire. Its attack is swift and silent, painless yet deadly. Before you realize that the parasite has attached itself to your back, you have lost 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you are still alive and you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you are still alive but do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Your men look disappointed by your decision, but you are their commanding officer and they are <ch.eacute/>lite soldiers of Sommerlund; they neither argue nor grumble as they follow you southward. Darkness soon engulfs the highway, and you are forced to stop and set up camp by the roadside. The men gather firewood, and a guard is posted on the horses. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The night passes without incident, and at dawn you break camp and continue along <quote>Raider<ch.apos/>s Road</quote>.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If the number that you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect25">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glance over your shoulder to see a horde of warriors silhouetted in the light of the tunnel entrance. Their blood-curdling war-cries echo along the damp and gloomy shaft.</p>
- <p>You soon reach a section where the tunnel has collapsed and a large mound of earth rises almost to the ceiling. Desperately, you climb the mound and claw your way through the narrow gap, then drop to the passageway beyond. Here you discover a loose timber prop. When everyone is clear, you barge it with your shoulder; the prop splinters and tons of earth and stone come crashing down to seal the tunnel. As the dust settles, you stare into the darkness ahead. On the walls you can just make out a line of torches. Your men gather these and light them before you continue on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run half-crouched to the barricade and prise a bow from the hand of a dead soldier. You have spotted the leader of the bandit cavalry<ch.emdash/>a tall, dark-skinned warrior with a thin, chiselled nose, rallying his horsemen at the foot of the stone watchtower. You know you must kill him before he can regroup his troops, or D<ch.apos/>Val and his hard-pressed men will be ridden down and mercilessly slaughtered.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>You have spotted the leader of</line><line> the bandit cavalry</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="678" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="678" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You notch an arrow and draw back the bowstring. The straining cord bites into your fingers as you take aim.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill (any weapon), add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If it is 4<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If it is 8<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that the right tunnel is newly excavated, and you sense that it has yet to be completed. Rather than get caught in a dead end, you push on along the left tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are helped tonight by a cloudless sky, for the highway is illuminated by the pale moonlight. You order three of your men to scout ahead, for you know the notorious reputation this forested highway has for sudden bandit ambushes; the densely packed trees lining the road could easily conceal an army of robbers. Before the scouts gallop away, you order them to report anything unusual they may find on the road ahead.</p>
- <p>Within an hour, you arrive at a junction where a track from the east meets the main highway. Abandoned at the side of the road is a burnt-out wagon. You sense that something is wrong; your scouts should have reported this wagon long before you found it, and your men are worried by what may have happened to them. You know that you dare not continue your ride in case you fall into an ambush. You decide to rest at the junction and wait for the return of your scouts. Six hours later, as the sun slowly rises over the eastern tree-line, your scouts have still not returned.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to search the highway ahead, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to examine the burnt-out wagon, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to explore the eastern track, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lead your men in single file into the forest, but in less than a minute, the trees have become far too dense for you to be able to continue on horseback. You are forced to dismount and hide your horses before continuing on foot. Then, by a great stroke of luck, you find a narrow track leading to a ramshackle boathouse at the edge of the River Xane. If it contains a boat, you should be able to cross the river with ease.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small21.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small21.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to investigate the boathouse, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to continue downstream and look for some other way of crossing the river, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to order your men to make camp when a scout gallops towards you from the east. He points to a line of horsemen on the horizon. <quote>Bandits!</quote> he cries. You estimate that there are at least two hundred of them, and they are riding in your direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn (you possess 8 Kai Disciplines), <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you have yet to reach this level of training, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel continues to descend for several hundred yards until you reach a wide chamber with a timber floor. Two pairs of footprints can clearly be seen in the silt covering the rotten planks; to your horror, they both seem to disappear into a gaping hole.</p>
- <p>Inching your way to the jagged edge, you can make out two bodies lying at the bottom of a muddy shaft. You have found your scouts, but they are beyond all help. As the soft timbers begin to sag, you retreat from the edge to avoid a similar fate. Beyond the hole are two exits from this chamber. One passage heads towards the east, the other south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess this skill, you may enter the east tunnel by <link-text>turning to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">Alternatively you can enter the south tunnel by <link-text>turning to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must rally the defenders or all is lost. You order two soldiers to help the captain and then leap on an overturned wagon in order to see clearly the enemy advance. They have already reached the ruined perimeter of Ruanon and are now creeping forward under cover of the broken cottage walls. You shout orders to D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men to defend the barricade, but the enemy are less than one hundred yards from the wall; you are afraid it might be too late to repel their attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip many times on the rickety bridge but eventually make your way across to the other side. You can just make out the jagged tunnel wall by the faint light cast by a swarm of mine flies. You press onwards, but you are now so tired that you are soon forced to stop and sleep.</p>
-
- <p>Many hours pass before you awake and continue your exploration.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is unlocked and opens into a small room with a straw-covered floor. A large iron-belted chest rests at the foot of an unmade bed, beyond which lies another door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small22.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small22.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to examine the chest, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to ignore it and investigate the door, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly leave the hut far behind and press on through the trees. By morning, you have reached the edge of the forest. Staring out across the fields of tall crops, you see a small village lying at the base of a shallow valley. The fields are only separated by narrow tracks, which are alive with flying insects hovering in swarms.</p>
- <p>You are walking along the track when you suddenly spot bandits ahead. They are wandering idly up the track towards you, their spears slung over their shoulders.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>The bandits are wandering idly up</line><line> the track towards you</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="677" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="677" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you possess an Onyx Medallion, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage and you have reached the Kai Rank of Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you do not have this Special Item or this Discipline and Kai Rank, dive into the tall crops and hide by <link-text>turning to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Go away!</quote> shouts a nervous voice. <quote>We<ch.apos/>re a tavern, not a barracks!</quote> shouts another. You try to reason with them but they are adamant; they will not let you enter. You have no choice but to continue along the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Warhounds spread out and stream towards the barricade, their eyes aflame with evil intent. A group of five snarling dogs tear through the wall of sacks and casks and engulf the soldiers around you. Lashing out, you despatch two of the loathsome dogs with one swipe, but in the heat of battle you fail to notice the Warhounds that are diving towards your back. They pitch you forward into the collapsed barricade; before you can free yourself, they have sunk their fangs into your legs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warhounds</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you are still alive after 3 rounds of combat or if you have won in the first three rounds, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the first body that you search you find:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>8 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You are about to search the others when you hear the sound of running footsteps approaching from the other side of the chamber. You pull the rope once more and breathe a sigh of relief as the portcullis rises into the ceiling. Rolling under the widening gap, you jump to your feet and make a hasty escape along the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap forward to strike, but the bandit rears his steed to avert your attack. You feel the horse<ch.apos/>s flailing hooves crash down on your head, and you are quickly trampled into the blood-soaked ground. Concussed and mortally wounded, the last thing that you remember of this world is the evil sneer of the bandit horseman as he raises his longsword for the death-blow.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist to one side to avoid it, but the disc bites deeply into your shoulder. You lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Clutching your wounded arm, you sprint along a narrow alleyway that leads to a mass of densely packed firs. As you reach the trees, you hear the shouts of bandits close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to press on through the trees towards the south, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to change direction and head west, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense enables you to identify the hoof prints disappearing along the path towards the east as those made by a Sommlending cavalry horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you wish to follow the prints, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to head in the opposite direction to the tracks, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no time to search the bodies. Other patrols have been alerted by the struggle and are now hacking their way through the trees to reach you. Parting the bloodstained foliage, you leap from the trees and run for Ruanon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>ve heard nothing for nearly a month,</quote> he says, shaking his bearded face from side to side. <quote>Some horsemen from your country passed here about that time, but since then all we have seen are a travelling band of troubadours from Cloeasia and those accursed bandits.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small23.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small23.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The tavern-keeper<ch.apos/>s sons each take it in turn to sit watch at the arrow slits, so that you and your men can get some sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible pain racks your chest as you are thrown backwards by the force of the crossbow bolt. You claw at the unyielding shaft, catching a glimpse of the face of an enemy guard as he raises his sword to deliver the <foreign xml:lang="fr">coup de gr<ch.acirc/>ce</foreign>.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A thorough search of the two guards reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>4 Gold Crowns</li>
-
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Iron Key</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>Potion of Red Liquid</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You recognize the liquid to be Laumspur, a potion of healing. If swallowed after combat, it will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You may take any of the above items but be sure to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Set into the north wall of the well chamber is a large iron door. Next to the door, a stone archway leads to a spiral staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to examine the iron door, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to ascend the spiral stairs, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to descend the spiral stairs, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect269-1-foot" idref="sect269-1">
- <p>It is up to you to decide, but it seems that using Hunting in the Maaken Mines isn't realistic.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the passage for nearly an hour before finding yourself in front of a solid rock-face. Shovels and barrows lie discarded upon the floor as if the excavation was abandoned in a great hurry. You may take one of the Shovels if you wish, but it will occupy the same space in your Backpack as two normal items.</p>
- <p>You are now hungry and you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<footref id="sect269-1" idref="sect269-1-foot"/> Cursing your bad luck, you are forced to retrace your steps all the way back to the junction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">Continue your exploration by <link-text>turning to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>The rain and the gloom hide your approach, and you reach the marble stairs unseen. The steps are overgrown with mould and weeds, but a path has been trod through them leading into the darkness of a huge underground vault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you possess a Torch in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you possess a Firesphere, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you have neither of these items, you can continue your way forward in darkness, and <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">Alternatively, you can leave the vault and attempt to enter the temple via the crypt door by <link-text>turning to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway across the bridge when someone pulls the hanging rope. You glance back, and to your horror you see that the rope travels through a series of metal rings that lead to a couple of locking pins anchoring the bridge floor to the edge of the shaft. A shiver runs down your spine as the rope snaps taut and the pegs rise out of the floor.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If it is 7<ch.endash/>11, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect272-1-foot" idref="sect272-1">
- <p>You may choose which Weapon to discard if you have two.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You smash feet first into a large river boulder. Recoiling from the impact, you cough uncontrollably in your desperate fight for air as the water fills your ears and nose. Down and down, around and around you go, your eyes stinging and the pain in your legs grinding agonizingly upwards through your body. A glancing blow to your shoulder rips the sleeve from your jacket and numbs your arm; your weapon falls from your hand. You are somersaulted into a steep V-shaped channel and buffeted on all sides as you tumble towards a pool far below. You feel the sheer weight and volume of water behind you will plunge you to your doom, and as you plummet into the swirling dark water, all consciousness rapidly gives way to a blind and silent numbness.</p>
- <p>When you open your eyes it is dusk. You have been washed up on the river bank near to a twisting forest track. The silhouette of the Maaken range rises steeply to the east, and you realize that you must have drifted many miles downstream. You have survived a terrible ordeal; one that would have killed any lesser mortal. You have lost 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to leg and head wounds and one Weapon.<footref id="sect272-1" idref="sect272-1-foot"/> All of your Special Items, Backpack Items and Gold Crowns are still intact.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">Make all the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden less than five miles when you see a group of wagons on the highway ahead. They are painted in a gaudy mix of bright colours and drawn by teams of oxen. A huge tasselled banner flies above the leading wagon, which bears the following proclamation:</p>
- <signpost>The Famous Asajir Players<ch.emdash/>Troubadours to the Imperial Courts of Magnamund</signpost>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>You see a group of wagons on</line><line> the highway ahead</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="575" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="575" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to stop to question these travelling minstrels, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to ignore them and let them pass, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Barraka draws a razor-sharp scimitar, holding its mirror-like blade in his other hand. He advances towards you with deadly grace; you can sense his warrior prowess, his ice-cold nerve. Your fight will be hard and to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you possess a Flask of Holy Water, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>With one slice of your golden sword, the timber splinters in two. A shudder runs through the ground, and with one mighty roar, a deluge of earth and stone completely fills the tunnel. Clouds of dust engulf you, and the force of the blast throws you to the floor; all the torches are extinguished. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Staggering to your feet, you hurry along the dust-choked tunnel to where the wall torches are still burning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hideous groan reverberates through the chamber making everyone freeze in mid-step. With mounting horror, you watch as the far wall suddenly moves towards you. A crack appears, widening to reveal a row of razor-sharp teeth. You have awoken a hungry Stoneworm, and it intends to feast on your flesh. Your men unsheathe their swords and prepare for combat; it is too late for them to turn and run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to stand and fight the Stoneworm, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you wish to escape from the chamber, you run back to the ladder and <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kick the dead Warhound away and steel yourself for another onslaught. Three more of the snarling beasts are ready to pounce, and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warhounds</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reactions have saved you from certain death. The deadly disc whistles past, embedding itself deep in a wheel. Rolling clear of the wagon, you sprint along a narrow alleyway leading to a knot of densely packed firs. You reach the trees, but as you dive for cover, you hear the shouts of bandits close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to press on through the trees towards the south, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to change direction and head west, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you unfurl the Scroll and begin to read its ominous contents, the Baron struggles to his feet. Word for word he echoes the prophetic verse.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
- <line>When the full moon shines o<ch.apos/>er the temple deep,</line>
- <line>A sacrifice will stir from sleep</line>
- <line>The legions of a long forgotten lord.</line>
- <line>When a fair royal maid on the altar dies,</line>
- <line>The dead of Maakengorge shall rise</line>
- <line>To claim their long-awaited reward.</line>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <p><quote>You must save her, Lone Wolf. You must prevent the sacrifice.</quote> The Baron<ch.apos/>s voice is choked with emotion.</p>
- <p><quote>Save who? Who must he save?</quote> questions Captain D<ch.apos/>Val, as he tries to calm the distressed Baron.</p>
- <p><quote>My daughter, Madelon. Barraka has found the Dagger of Vashna. He plans to sacrifice my daughter upon the altar of Maaken to release the undead of Maakengorge.</quote></p>
- <p>The Baron explains that during the Age of the Black Moon, King Ulnar of Sommerlund killed the mightiest of all the Darklords, Vashna, with the Sommerswerd, the sword of the sun. His body and the bodies of all his soldiers were hurled into the bottomless abyss of Maakengorge. <quote>He plans to lead the dead to victory first to conquer Sommerlund and then all of the Lastlands,</quote> he says in despair.</p>
- <p>You stare at the Baron in stunned silence. If Barraka completes the sacrifice, all is lost. What mortal army can stand against a legion of the dead?</p>
- <p>Captain D<ch.apos/>Val ushers you from the chamber and closes the door. <quote>I feared he was insane, but your Scroll confirms my worst nightmare. He speaks the truth!</quote></p>
- <p>As the dreadful significance of the verse begins to sink in, your thoughts are broken by the shrill blast of a war-horn. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val strides over to an arrow slit and peers out across the plain. As he turns to speak, you notice that his face is ashen grey. <quote>The bandits<ch.ellips/> they<ch.apos/>re launching an attack!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you possess Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s sword, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you do not possess it, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You roll the body over <!--ERRTAG-RE-293159-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293159--> its side and make a quick search. You discover:</p>
- <ul>
-
- <li>3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take whatever you wish before crossing the bridge, but remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Upon reaching the far side, you detect the sound of running footsteps somewhere in the distance. You decide against waiting to see who it is and leave the chamber by a tunnel in the west wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature vanishes and you find yourself lying on the tunnel floor. You are breathless, your heart is pounding and your skin feels cold and damp. You begin to realize what must have happened to you. The fungi spores were making you hallucinate; the Tunnel Fiend existed only in your mind, it was nothing more than an illusion. Unfortunately, any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lost in combat with this mere illusion cannot be restored: you inflicted the wounds on yourself, striking your body against the jagged tunnel walls.</p>
- <p>As the effects of the spores begin to fade, you are overwhelmed by fatigue and lose consciousness. Many hours pass before you awake to a painfully sore throat and aching head. You relight your torch and push on along the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lock is rusty and stiff, but eventually it gives, and the door opens. You enter a narrow passageway that descends to another door fifty feet away. You order your men to go on ahead while you secure the door. It takes a great effort to force the lock closed. You hear the hollow click of the lock, but this is echoed by a click far louder. A trap has been sprung. The floor opens in the centre of the passage and swallows all your men, screaming with terror, into the void below. With fear rising in your throat, you race to the edge and peer into the inky black pit. The walls are sheer and its depth unknown. A cold breeze on your face and the eerie sound of wind whistling through the chasm is all that meets your desperate stare. With heavy heart, you bid a silent farewell to your lost men and hurry towards the distant door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257"><link-text>Turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grasp the Flask, take careful aim, and hurl it straight and true. Barraka stares open-mouthed as the container shatters against the black steel dagger. There is an explosion of searing white flame. The heat scorches your face, and you are thrown to the floor. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You stare in horror as Barraka, his arm torn from his body by the blast, staggers backwards across the temple. He has been blinded by the fire, and he claws at his sightless eyes with his remaining hand. You watch in silence as he stumbles through the black skull doors and plummets into Maakengorge, swallowed up by the chasm of doom.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small24.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small24.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You order your men to form a line and advance towards the oncoming bandits. They are less than a hundred yards away when you give the order to charge. The wind whips your face, carrying the echo of battle-cries across the plain as you close on the enemy. As your forces clash, you are stunned by the shock of impact. Your horse collides with the flank of a bandit steed, hurling it and its rider to the ground. You reel in the saddle and are unable to avoid a spear thrust that opens a wound in your thigh. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before turning to face your attacker.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect89">You can evade combat at any time by <link-text>turning to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You storm the steps and attack. The guards fire a volley of deadly bolts and a metal-tipped shaft passes straight through the hood of your cloak. Miraculously, you are unharmed. You raise your weapon and strike, cracking the neck of the guard who fired at you. No sooner has he fallen than another steps forward to take his place. There is no room to evade combat, and you must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait with bated breath as a line of haggard men file past your barely concealed hiding place. An escort of bandit warriors urge them forward, beating any who falter or step out of the line. Then each man is forced to take hold of a wagon and push it back along the tunnel. Soon they have all disappeared from view.</p>
- <p>You wait, and when you are sure that the coast is clear you step back into the tunnel and press on, taking care to keep well in the shadows. You finally reach a point where the tunnel emerges into daylight. To your left, a dense copse has been cut back from the entrance, and wagon tracks lead to a timber gantry above a mound of ore. The men and the guards who passed you are now at the gantry, but they fail to see you sprint from the entrance and dive into the trees. A brief pause for breath is all you allow yourself before setting off through the trees towards Ruanon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
-
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely taken a dozen steps when the old woman drops to the floor. A ranger shouts <quote>Ambush!</quote> It is the last word he will ever speak. A razor-sharp disc of metal whistles down from the balcony above and sinks into his chest. Then, suddenly, the tavern is full of bandits, pouring in through windows and doors. Three charge straight at you, their battle-cries loud and savage. You draw your weapon and strike, beheading two of the dark-skinned warriors with a single blow. The third bandit is upon you before the bodies of the others have fallen to the floor.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You leave three men to guard the horses and take four men into the mine. It is pitch dark but you are quick to notice that unlit torches line the damp walls at regular intervals. You each take a torch and light it before going any further. Now the footprints can clearly be seen on the muddy floor. They lead to a collapsed section of the tunnel where they disappear over the top of a massive earthfall.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to climb the mound of earth and squeeze through the narrow gap between the top of the mound and the ceiling, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you decide to call off the search and return to the mine entrance, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow Captain D<ch.apos/>Val as he hurries down the broad watchtower steps and out to the barricade. A rolling sound like distant thunder fills the air. Cavalry are pouring <!--ERRTAG-RE-302201-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-302201--> the plain from all sides, grouping up into battalions in preparation for the advance. Columns of foot soldiers in bright scarlet armour march through their ranks, herding a frightened wall of people before them.</p>
- <p><quote>They<ch.apos/>re Ruanese!</quote> cries D<ch.apos/>Val, his hand shielding the light from his eyes. <quote>That cur Barraka; he<ch.apos/>s using them as a shield!</quote></p>
- <p>All around you, the captain<ch.apos/>s men have drawn their bowstrings, awaiting his signal to fire. But it is an order he dare not give. Suddenly a hidden catapult hurls a massive black rock through the air, straight towards the barricade. You stare in horror as it bursts into flame and disintegrates, showering a rain of blazing oil on everyone beneath. The soldiers cannot evade the deluge, and many are badly burnt before the flames are smothered. A battle-cry resounds from the enemy ranks: the signal to attack. The Ruanese are pushed aside and trampled by the onrush of scarlet warriors who now race towards the barricade.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>You stare in horror as a deluge</line><line> of blazing oil rains down</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="677" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="677" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The blazing oil has scattered D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men, and the barricade is poorly defended. You hear D<ch.apos/>Val shout your name. His cloak and tunic are ablaze, and he is screaming for your help.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn (you possess 8 Kai Disciplines), <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to help the captain, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you wish to rally the defenders before the enemy reach the barricade, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ruins are overgrown with weeds and roots, but you can make out the shape of the inner sanctum of the temple quite distinctly. The huge marble canopy is still intact and will serve as an excellent shelter from the storm. As you tie your horse to a withered shrub, you glance up to see two men hiding beneath the canopy, dressed in long black robes. You order them to come out and identify themselves, but they neither move nor answer your call.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small25.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small25.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to signal your men to attack the robed strangers, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you wish to try to capture them alive, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you decide to sheathe your weapon and approach them, your hand extended in a gesture of friendship, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage leads to an iron-studded door. Placing your ear to the rough wood, you detect the sound of voices.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you do not possess this skill, you can draw your weapon, open the door, and <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">Alternatively you can retrace your steps back to the gallery and take the other exit by <link-text>turning to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the sword just in time to save yourself. The deadly disc is sliced in two on the edge of your golden blade, and the semicircles of twisted steel scream past barely inches from your cheeks. You roll away from the wagon and sprint along a narrow alleyway leading to a bank of dense trees. As you enter the trees, you hear the shouts of the bandits close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to press on towards the south, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you want to change direction and head west, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the track as it wends its way through the forested hills. You soon come across fresh hoof prints in the soft earth of the track.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>The wagon halts in the centre of the timber gantry, and the men are herded back into the tunnel. You wait for over an hour before the entrance is free of guards, then you slip out of the wagon and run back along the gantry. A copse of densely packed trees lines one side of the track and along the other is a sheer drop into the quarry. As you dash into the foliage, you suddenly realize that the whispering stranger had been trying to help you escape. You bid him silent thanks and press on towards Ruanon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
-
-
- <data>
- <p>The bandit warrior lies dead at your feet. <quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, as the enemy shield-wall falters and falls. Your men take up the battle-cry and hurl themselves against the foe. Swords whine and men and metal cry out in pain. The fight is desperate but swift. The bandits throw down their shields and flee the tavern, melting away into the rain-filled darkness. You rally your troops and run to the stables, but your heart sinks when you see the doors are wide open. You fear the worst.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is noon before you are forced to call a halt. You have reached the edge of a ridge where the highway begins a long descent towards a wide wooden bridge. This is the Ruanon bridge: you recognize its stout black timbers and the dark waters of the River Xane that flow beneath. On the far side of the bridge lie the fire-blackened ruins of an inn and the unmistakable silhouette of bandit horsemen. At the entrance to the bridge is a white signpost pointing across the bridge to the south.</p>
- <signpost>RUANON<ch.emdash/>12 MILES</signpost>
- <p>You know it would be suicidal to attempt to cross the bridge: the bandit horsemen each carry a heavy crossbow slung from their saddle.</p>
-
-
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to try to cross the river further upstream to the west, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to try to cross the river downstream, to the east, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Tunnel Fiends that are screaming and writhing beneath your blows fade and disappear. You shake your head in disbelief and rub your eyes, but no trace of their bodies remains. You slowly begin to realize what has happened. The fungi spores are making you hallucinate; the creatures existed only in your mind and were nothing more than illusions.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lost in combat are not restored<ch.emdash/>during the <quote>fight</quote> you have collided many times with the jagged tunnel walls. You sheathe your weapon and stagger away from the fungi, eager to leave them far behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you pull you men into line, shoulder to shoulder across the entrance to the mine. Their shields form a wall of wood and steel to deflect the arrows now falling from the sky. As they flood out from the trees, the bandit warriors discard their bows in favour of long, curved swords. Many of them stumble and fall, but their leader beats them forward with the flat of his battle-axe. He is an ugly brute dressed in a heavy brass hauberk. As the first of the enemy smash into the shield-wall, he screams a deafening war-cry. A numbing thunder of blows <!--ERRTAG-RE-311346-->rains<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311346--> down as the bandits hew and slice into your line. The fight is bitter but the wall holds firm, as your men bravely defend themselves.</p>
- <p>The first wave of bandits stagger back clutching their wounds, a dozen left dead at your feet. None of your men have fallen. However, you barely have time to wipe your blood-spattered brow before their leader bounds towards you, his battle-axe sweeping the air. He batters his way through the shield-wall and attacks you. You cannot evade him and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small26.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small26.pdf" width="171" height="142" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Leader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A scream of pain and terror fills the air. The sniper crashes to the ground as the jaws of a Warhound clamp tightly around his neck. Other hounds are drawn by his ghastly screams, and he is soon ripped to pieces. You look up to see a man running towards you from the barricade. He has a shield in one hand and a longbow in the other; it is Captain D<ch.apos/>Val.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>He reaches you, breathless from his run, and draws an arrow from his quiver. The Warhounds, tired of their victim, are in search of fresh sport and are turning their attentions on you. D<ch.apos/>Val aims and fires, drawing another arrow as soon as his bow is empty. Warhounds tumble and crash to the ground around you, felled by D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s deadly shafts. The captain grabs you by the arm and swings you over his shoulder in one swift movement, before carrying you back to the barricade. Others run forward to help him, but the bandit archers are now in range and the men are forced back by a hail of arrows. The red shafts whistle past on all sides. Finally you reach the barricade; a wagon is pulled aside and you are carried through the open gap. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val is close to exhaustion; he staggers and his men rush to catch him before he drops you to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street continues past a stable with a large paddock. The enclosure is full of horses, all of which are saddled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you do not <!--ERRTAG-RE-314597-->possess<!--/ERRTAG-RE-314597--> this skill, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chest appears to be unlocked, but with the loss of your men still fresh in your mind, you decide to take no chances. Standing to one side, you ease open the chest with the tip of your weapon and flick back the lid. You wait with bated breath but nothing happens; whoever lives in this room must be confident that the pit trap will foil any would-be thieves, for the chest contains an assortment of loot. There are plates and goblets of gem-encrusted gold, necklaces of turquoise, pearls and statuettes of marbled jadin, a rare and precious stone. You marvel at their beauty but decide against taking them for they are heavy and of little practical use. Then you notice a soft leather bag beneath the gold plates. When you pull it out of the chest, you immediately recognize its distinctive shape. It is a herbwarden<ch.apos/>s satchel and contains the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Potions of Laumspur<ch.emdash/>Each restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Alether<ch.emdash/>Increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of one combat.</li>
- <li>1 Flask of Holy Water</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">Examine the far door and <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your knees and knuckles are badly bruised, but you are still alive and clinging to the wooden bridge floor. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, the slatted floor of the bridge makes an excellent ladder, and you waste no time in climbing out of the mine shaft. Your enemies scream and curse at you from the other side of the chamber, for they are now trapped there and unable to pursue you. With a wry smile you wave them farewell before entering a tunnel in the west wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One blow is enough to sever the writhing tentacle and free the ranger. He shouts his thanks and quickly slices the tip from another rubbery limb as it rises from the slime-stained river. Suddenly there is a tremendous crack as yet another tentacle punches its way through the bottom of the boat. The boat is lifted into the air, and you are hurled into the icy cold water.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the number is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bold plan springs to mind. You remove the Onyx Medallion from your pocket and stride boldly towards the bandit spearmen. They are so busy talking to each other that they fail to see you. Your appearance comes as a sudden shock. Acting your part to perfection, you scold them for their slovenliness and threaten to report them to Barraka himself. As their eyes fall upon the Onyx Medallion, you can almost hear their hearts miss a beat. Frantically they pull themselves together and stand to attention, awaiting your next command. You send them marching off towards the forest and then hurry away in the opposite direction, just in case they realize that they have been tricked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your men push open the door with their swords and quickly enter. You hear a muffled voice, and a ranger soon reappears at the door. <quote>It is safe, my Lord,</quote> he says, and stands aside to allow you to enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84"><link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From all along the forest edge, groups of bandits emerge from the trees, whipped and scolded by their bullying sergeants for allowing you to escape. This spurs you to quicken your pace, and you cover the first hundred yards with ease. Then arrows begin to fall around you. You duck and weave, making yourself a difficult target for the archers, and gradually the falling shafts dwindle in number. You smile at their futile attempts to stop you, but your confidence is soon shaken by a pack of snarling Warhounds breaking out of the woods to your right; they are off the leash and hungry for blood. You are less than five hundred yards from Ruanon, but the Warhounds are closing in.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to quicken your pace and try to outrun them, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to stop and fight them, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn the key and push open the iron door. Immediately, a loud hissing fills your ears, like steam escaping from a geyser. A cat-like creature leaps at you from out of the darkness knocking you to the ground; its eyes glowing with a green fire and its fetid breath scorching your face<ch.emdash/>it is an Elix! As you struggle to free yourself from its powerful fanged jaws, more of these creatures bound through the open door and attack your men. You cannot evade combat, and you must fight this beast to the death.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>A loud hissing fills your ears,</line><line>like steam escaping from a geyser</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="725" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="725" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Elix</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the tunnel for three hours before arriving at a great hall where several tunnels, all at different depths, meet up. A series of wide stone ramps connect each tunnel to those immediately above and below. Four levels below you, teams of men are pushing wagonloads of ore. Others, dressed in red armour, stand guard over the wagon-pushers and urge them on with whips and curses.</p>
- <p>The tunnel in which you now stand is on the highest level. You realize that the only way you can proceed is by descending the ramp to a tunnel on a lower level. To your dismay, you notice that <!--ERRTAG-RE-322208-->each of the ramps is guarded<!--/ERRTAG-RE-322208--> by armed men. Inching forward, you peer over the edge of the ramp; two guards are sitting near the tunnel entrance below. They are laughing and giggling and pointing at an empty wine flagon that lies at their feet. After watching them for several minutes, you decide they are probably too drunk to notice you. You decide to make a dash for the tunnel.</p>
-
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect138">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If your total is 8<ch.endash/>13, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than ten yards from the watchtower door when a spear haft knocks you to the ground. You roll aside in time to avoid a deadly thrust and spring to your feet to face your assailant. He is a hard-faced warrior with eyes as black as coal, his armour tarnished with the blood of his dead horse. He raises his spear and stabs at your chest. You cannot evade combat and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Three Sommlending soldiers come to your aid. Their swords slice into the evil Warhounds until both dogs stiffen and die, and you thankfully stagger to your feet and try to assess the situation as the battle rages all around. Sommlending soldiers still man the barricade, forming in groups that hold firm where the wall does not. Spears and arrows arc through the sky piercing metal, wood and flesh. Men fall from their horses, horses scream and bolt and the dead and the wounded lie everywhere.</p>
- <p>The Warhounds have been driven back upon the spears of their masters, who now advance behind a wall of shields. To your right, a bandit warrior is trying to jump his horse across the barricade, but the animal is wounded and near to death. It cannot make the jump; the rider is hurled forwards over the wall, falling close behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to attack the bandit warrior, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to rally the Sommlending soldiers to repel the advancing spearmen, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All around you the ruins echo to the clash of weapons and the screech of battle-cries. These armour-clad horsemen are no ordinary bandit clan; they fight with a discipline and skill unheard of among the lowly outlaws of the Wildlands.</p>
- <p>You step over the dead warrior and call about you a handful of your men. The enemy have surrounded your horses, and you must act quickly if you are to save them from being taken. You lead a charge through the ruins, piercing the enemy line. They falter and flee back into the darkness. However, by the time you have reached the temple perimeter, only eleven of your horses remain<ch.emdash/>the others have vanished.</p>
- <p>After much thought, you decide to choose ten rangers to continue the mission with you, sending the remainder of your company back to Sommerlund to report what has happened. As the gloomy light of dawn gradually fills the sky, you and your chosen companions bid a sad farewell to those who must march back on foot.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
-
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lay your hands on the wounded ranger and manage to set the bones in his shattered elbow, binding them tightly with cloth strips torn from his tunic. Meanwhile, the other man has freed his ensnared leg and severed two more of the slimy tentacles that cling to the battered hull. Then he grabs the oars and frantically rows towards the distant bank, but the blades of the oars have barely entered the water when there is a tremendous crack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The forest is patrolled by bandits, but they take little interest in their guard duties, and you find it easy to avoid them in the dark. Then, by chance, you come across a small log cabin hidden deep in the woods. A candle flickers at the window, and the door is ajar.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small27.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small27.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to enter the hut, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you do not wish to enter the hut, continue your mission by <link-text>turning to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the flickering light of your Torch, you can see that the tunnel is supported by a criss-cross of props and beams. The rock is damp, and a narrow rivulet of ore-stained water runs along the tunnel floor. You soon reach a junction where the tunnel heads off to the left and right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to go left, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to go right, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway across when one of your men slips and is washed away by the torrential river water. His desperate cries alert the bandits. Suddenly a bandit warrior appears on top of the boulder behind which you are hiding. He screams and lunges at you with his spear. Deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight, for you are at a disadvantage. The bandit warrior towers over you and your footing is wet and slippery.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bandit Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect31">You may evade combat at any time by diving into the River Xane. <link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate your powers and direct them at an outcrop of loose shale overhanging the shaft on the opposite side of the chamber. In seconds, there is a crack of slate and stone as part of the outcrop crumbles away and falls into the gaping mine shaft. The guard is startled by the sudden noise and leaves his post to investigate. Without a moment<ch.apos/>s hesitation, you dash across the now empty bridge and disappear into the tunnel beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Oren Vanalund is the fifteenth baron of Ruanon, a noble warrior of royal lineage, and fifth in succession to the throne of Sommerlund. This once proud and chivalrous warlord now lies upon the cold stone floor of the chamber, red-eyed and whimpering like a frightened dog. <quote>He has lost everything,</quote> says D<ch.apos/>Val quietly. <quote>Barraka has destroyed his castle, his land, his town and his family. His sons are dead, and his only daughter has been taken captive by Barraka himself. I fear the ordeal has turned his mind.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><quote>He has lost everything<ch.ellips/>his castle, his land, his town and his family...</quote> </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="590" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="590" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The pathetic man raises his tear-stained face, and with feeble voice mutters a curious rhyme, over and over again.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>
- <line>When a fair royal maid on the altar dies,</line>
- <line>The dead of Maakengorge shall rise.</line>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you possess a Scroll, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
-
- <choice idref="sect57">If you do not possess a Scroll, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>The food is delicious. You eat your fill and then make preparations for a good night<ch.apos/>s sleep. At dawn, you and your company bid farewell to the travelling players and continue on your mission to Ruanon.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two guards are completely unprepared for your attack. They have only just drawn their swords when your men reach them and knock them both to the ground.</p>
- <p><quote>Shall we despatch them immediately, my Lord?</quote> asks a ranger, his sword tip at the throat of a nervous guard.</p>
- <p><quote>No,</quote> you reply. <quote>Tie them. They may be of some use to us yet.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to search them, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to question them, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foul creature lets out a ghastly shriek and dies, but its huge slimy body trembles and convulses for several minutes. You wait for a while before daring to squeeze past it to the chamber beyond. No trace of your men remain. Their bodies lie partially digested inside the Stoneworm carcass. With nausea rising in your throat, you turn and flee from this terrible chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Extinguishing your Torch, you curl up on the floor and quickly fall into a deep sleep. Many hours pass before you awake, totally refreshed by your rest. Restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Relighting your torch, you can now see that the hut is full of mining tools. Picks, Shovels and wheelbarrows are stacked upright along the far wall.</p>
- <p>If you wish to take either a Pick or a Shovel, do so and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item. Due to the size of these tools, they each take up the same amount of space as two normal Backpack Items.</p>
- <p>Two tunnels lead away from the chamber. One heads west, the other south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to take the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to take the south tunnel, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the arrow, and it whistles through the air and buries itself deeply into the mail-clad shoulder of the Bandit Leader. You hear his scream of pain ring out above the din of battle, but even though he is badly wounded he still attempts to rally his men. You stoop to take another arrow, but, to your horror, the dead soldier<ch.apos/>s quiver is empty. Looking up you see two dismounted Vassagonian horsemen clambering across the barricade towards you. You throw down your bow and run to a large water cask defended by a stout Sommlending sergeant. The ground around the cask is carpeted with enemy dead.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small16.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small16.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Shoot the leader!</quote> you command, pointing towards the enemy officer. The sergeant aims and fires his bow with one swift and fluid movement. The arrow arcs through the battle-smoke and pierces the officer<ch.apos/>s shiny breastplate. Slowly his cruel eyes flicker and close as he slips from the saddle, the shaft lodged deep in his heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148"><link-text>Turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You are hungry and must eat a Meal before you sleep or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You have been asleep for only two hours when you are awoken by the sound of a tolling bell.</p>
- <p><quote>Bandits!</quote> screams the tavern-keeper. <quote>They<ch.apos/>ve got into the stables!</quote></p>
-
- <p>You must act quickly or the bandits will steal your horses. The tavern-keeper tells you that there are two ways to the stables from here: you can either leave through the front door and run around to the side of the tavern, or climb the stairs to the first-floor window and jump down <!--ERRTAG-RE-338009-->onto<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338009--> the stable roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to use the front door, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to jump from the first-floor window, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with Barraka, renegade noble of Vassagonia. You cannot evade the combat and must fight to the death. He is a formidable warrior who possesses great strength of will, and he is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Barraka</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You suddenly realize that you have entered a remote section of the Maaken mines via a disused passage from the foothills of the Maaken range. For hundreds of years, the ore of this range has been the blessing and the bane of thousands drawn here to seek their fortune. Men have either found wealth beyond their wildest dreams, or have perished without trace in the labyrinth of cold, damp tunnels. You know that if only you can locate a section of this mine that is still in use, you will be able to follow its tunnels all the way to Ruanon itself. As Ruanon lies to the south, you decide to take the south passage out of the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect327-1-foot" idref="sect327-1">
- <p>Remember to erase this Sword from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the sword and offer it to the captain. A look of surprise and delight crosses his face as he examines the blade. <quote>I never expected to see my trusty steel again. It is a good omen for the battle ahead.</quote></p>
- <p>Thanking you, the captain sheathes his sword in its scabbard, that until now, has hung empty from his belt.<footref id="sect327-1" idref="sect327-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the top of the ridge, a gruesome sight meets you. The bodies of men and horses lie scattered across the shallow valley beyond, their bones picked clean by the scavenging crows. You hear the gasps of horror as your men recognize the armour and tattered white uniforms of these skeletons, for they were once your countrymen, Sommlending Guards of the King<ch.apos/>s cavalry. They must have died in battle, for the corpses of bandit warriors lie entwined among them. Forty brave soldiers, nearly half of the squadron that left Holmgard one month ago, now lie before you, and it is with heavy heart that your men set about the grisly task of burial. As you ride away from this valley of death, you are comforted only by the knowledge that Captain D<ch.apos/>Val was not among those you buried.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small28.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small28.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The river fills your ears, your eyes and your nose. In your desperate fight for air you cough uncontrollably. Blinded by water, you fail to see the large river boulder looming ahead. With a sickening crack, you smash head first into the unyielding stone and sink beneath the rushing torrent.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first light, you prepare to enter the valley. The highway is enshrouded by mist and soon, on both sides, the Ruanon forest closes in; a tangle of pale grey tree trunks of every shape and size crowd thickly around you. After a few minutes ride, you find the wreck of a burnt-out wagon abandoned at the side of the road. Behind it, a track disappears eastwards into the hills.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to search the wrecked wagon, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to ignore the wagon and press on along the highway, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to investigate the track that leads up into the hills, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon discover a partially concealed mine shaft descending vertically into the hillside. As your men clear away the briars choking the shaft, you notice a ladder fixed to one side. You realize that this must be an escape shaft from the Maaken mines, for they honeycomb the foothills of this mountain range. If only you can locate a major tunnel, you may find a path all the way to Ruanon itself. You kneel at the edge and peer down into the gloom. There is such an overwhelming smell of dampness and decay that you decide to send your lightest man down the ladder to check whether it is still secure. All seems well, for he soon reaches a tunnel entrance far below and shouts to you all to follow.</p>
- <p>The tunnel leads to an oval-shaped, rough-hewn chamber, the floor of which is coated with a strange silky fluid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you do not have this skill, you can search for an exit from the chamber and <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although the wagons are shrouded in darkness, your Kai sense reveals to you the actor<ch.apos/>s hiding place. You climb the ladder at the rear of a large caravan, push open the door with your weapon, and enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horseman is charging at you very quickly. You will only be able to fight for one round of combat before the momentum of his attack carries him past you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vassagonian Horseman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you lose more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than your enemy in this one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you in this round of combat, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you both lose exactly the same number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in this round of combat, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you hit the water, your weapon is jarred from your hand. Panic overwhelms your senses as slimy tentacles coil around your sinking body. You fight to escape but are soon squeezed into unconsciousness. A trail of bubbles and a torn cloak are the only signs to mark your watery grave.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel soon emerges into a large chamber divided by a deep mine shaft. A dark-skinned warrior in tatty leather armour stands guard at the entrance to the wooden bridge spanning the shaft. He is whittling a block of wood and grumbling to himself about how unfair it is that he is given the most boring duties. On the far side of the chamber a tunnel disappears into the west wall. You know that if you are to reach the tunnel, you must get past the guard and across the bridge.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small29.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small29.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you possess neither of the above Kai Disciplines, you will have to launch a surprise attack on the guard. <link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow flies straight and true towards the bandit but glances off his polished steel breastplate. Unmoved by this close escape from death, he hurls his javelin, pinning the helpless soldier to the ground. You are about to take another shot when you see a menacing black shape dart across the sky; it plummets downwards and lands on the watchtower roof.</p>
- <p>You discard your bow and draw your weapon as you race up the stairs to investigate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although fire has totally destroyed any markings there may have been on the wagon, there still remains enough of the shell for you to recognize its military origin. It is a Sommlending cavalry wagon, one of three that accompanied Captain D<ch.apos/>Val and his troopers. It was loaded with provisions when it left Holmgard a month ago, but now all that remains of its cargo are heaps of ash. Having made a thorough search of the wreckage, you remount your horse and lead your men southwards along the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your bravado has paid off. The guards accept the password and allow you to enter the crypt. As the stone door is drawn shut, you find yourself in a wide torchlit corridor heading towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although the strangers seem harmless enough, you decide not to take any chances and mount a guard. You are hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Having eaten, you soon settle down to get a good night<ch.apos/>s sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your head begins to spin, and your legs feel as heavy as lead from the lack of oxygen. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A circle of unshaven faces are staring down at you. A soldier cradles your leg as another snaps the shaft buried deeply in your thigh. But before you can even cry out in pain, he has drawn the arrow from your leg with one swift tug. <quote>You are very lucky, Kai Lord,</quote> he says, as he bandages a handful of Laumspur to your aching limb. <quote>The wound is clean, and the bleeding is but slight.</quote></p>
- <p>You lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but the soldier<ch.apos/>s quick thinking and skill has saved your leg from infection. With great care the soldiers carry both you and Captain D<ch.apos/>Val into the stone watchtower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116"><link-text>Turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plummet head first into the darkness, the wind screaming past your face. Gritting your teeth, you try not to think of that terrible moment of impact, when you will smash into the hard, unyielding rock. But instead of a stone floor, you hit the surface of an underground river and plunge far down into its icy cold depths. You are so relieved to be alive that you momentarily forget where you are and inhale. As water enters your lungs, you fight to control the pain that now wracks your chest. You quickly become aware that your Backpack is dragging you down. You must discard it, or you will surely drown. When you eventually reach the surface, you claw your way out of the icy water and collapse on a gravel bank, coughing and gasping for air.</p>
- <p>You have lost your Backpack and everything that it contained, but you are still alive and relatively unharmed.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect219">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway across the underground river when the inky black water begins to seethe and boil. You cling to the gunwale and urge your men to row for all they are worth, for the turbulent water now threatens to capsize your crowded little boat. Suddenly a hideous greyish green tentacle breaks through the surface. Like a whiplash it crashes down, splintering wood and cracking bone as it coils around two of your men. Before you can even draw your weapon, they have been dragged down into the bubbling depths. Then another tentacle rises, snaking towards you. It stabs at your chest and tries to butt you overboard.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><line>The rangers are dragged down</line><line> into the bubbling depths</line></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is 20 or more, add 3 to the number that you have picked. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is 12 or less, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If your total is now -2<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If it is 7<ch.endash/>12, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your blow has splintered the horseman<ch.apos/>s lance. As he reins his horse about, he discards his broken weapon and draws a curved broadsword. His smile is evil, exposing a jagged line of blackened teeth. He spits a battle-cry and spurs his horse towards you once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you have reached the Kai rank of Aspirant or higher, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you have not yet reached this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the stalls to discover that only eleven horses remain; the others have been stolen by the bandits. After careful thought, you decide to call for ten volunteers to continue the mission with you, and order the remaining rangers to return to Sommerlund on foot at first light to report what has happened. As they head off to the north at dawn, you wait until they have vanished from sight before you turn and ride in the opposite direction.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If it is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For over five minutes you climb the spiral staircase before reaching the next level, where a mine tunnel leads off towards the south. You have covered less than a hundred yards of the dank passage when you discover a lever, set high up on the left-hand wall. A sudden noise in the distance betrays a guard patrol marching towards you. Without a second thought you pull the lever and a stone panel slides back to reveal a secret tunnel. You enter quickly to avoid the guards. Once they have passed by, you try to leave but find that you cannot re-open the stone panel from the inside. With a growing feeling of despair, you turn and follow the secret tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are at the bottom of the cellar ladder when the trapdoor slams shut and you hear a bolt slide across and lock. You hammer on the trapdoor desperately trying to escape, but your captors cover the trapdoor with a heavy oak cask and keep guard in the room above. Four days pass before the lock slides back, but the hands that open the trapdoor are bony and fleshless.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>Less than fifty yards along the tunnel wall you notice a lever. Your Kai instincts make you naturally suspicious of this unusual feature, and you scour the floor looking for evidence of a trap. You find nothing, but a glance at <!--ERRTAG-RE-356709-->the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-356709--> roof reveals the underside of a wide portcullis hidden between two beams.</p>
- <p>You pull the lever and the portcullis falls, sealing off the tunnel behind you. To make sure you will not be followed, you smash the lever with a wedge of stone before continuing along the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Judging by the smoothness of the stone floor and the condition of the ore wagons, you deduce that this gallery must service a major section of the mines. A fresh breeze can be felt blowing out of the west tunnel, and you sense that you must be near the surface.</p>
- <p>Ruanon lies due west, the same direction as the ore wagon tunnel. You take a deep breath and emerge from the shadows, cross the gallery, and quietly enter the archway beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As Barraka dies, the wind suddenly rises in pitch and intensity, filling the temple with a mournful cry of despair. You feel the chill, malevolent spirit of Darklord Vashna engulfing you in an icy embrace, but you sense that he is powerless to harm you. The sacrifice has been foiled; he is doomed to lament for a victory that might have been.</p>
- <p>Lying on the black temple floor is the Dagger of Vashna. As you pick it up and tuck it into your belt (mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item), the evil blue flame flickers and dies. As long as you possess this evil blade, Darklord Vashna and his legion of dead warriors will remain imprisoned in the chasm of doom.</p>
- <p>You free fair Madelon from the altar and carry her through the corridors of the temple that lead up to the surface. As you emerge into the moonlit ruins, an astounding sight greets your eyes. Barraka<ch.apos/>s warriors are running from the ghost city in all directions, closely pursued by an army of cavalrymen. The light of the full moon and the guttering torches that these horsemen carry, illuminates the sun-crest that bedecks their tunics. Word must have reached Holmgard for they are the Sommlending army, led by King Ulnar himself. Your countrymen praise your courage and daring, their strident cheers drowning the cry of Maakengorge, for once again you have proved yourself a true hero of Sommerlund. As you deliver Madelon into the waiting arms of her father, his overwhelming joy fills you with a sense of great achievement. You are indeed worthy of the title <quote>Kai Lord</quote>. You have succeeded in your perilous quest, but the epic saga of Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>last of the Kai Lords<ch.emdash/>is far from complete. A new and deadly challenge awaits you in Book 5 of the Lone Wolf series entitled:</p>
- <p><bookref series="lw" book="05sots"><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite></bookref></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Barraka<ch.apos/>s men flee from King Ulnar and the army of Sommerlund </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill21.gif" width="772" height="582" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill21.pdf" width="772" height="582" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Southern Sommerlund</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="807" height="606" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="807" height="606" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez <ch.ampersand/> Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez <ch.ampersand/> Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="385" height="246" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez <ch.ampersand/> Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez <ch.ampersand/> Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez <ch.ampersand/> Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <p>
- <line><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- <line><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>: <ch.blankline/></line>
- </p>
- <p>Kai Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Bonus Disciplines:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/>: 6th Discipline if you've completed one Lone Wolf Adventure successfully</li>
- <li><ch.blankline/>: 7th Discipline if you've completed two Lone Wolf Adventures successfully</li>
- <li><ch.blankline/>: 8th Discipline if you've completed three Lone Wolf Adventures successfully</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Weapons:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Belt Pouch: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Meals: <ch.blankline/></p>
- <p>Backpack Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- <p>Special Items:</p>
- <ol>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- <li><ch.blankline/></li>
- </ol>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- <instance class="text">
- <table>
- <tr>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>5</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>9</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>3</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>6</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>7</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>1</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>6</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>0</td>
- <td>9</td>
- <td>6</td>
- <td>4</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>2</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>5</td>
- <td>8</td>
- <td>3</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="text">
- <table summary="This table provides the endurance losses sustained by the hero and enemy as a result of combat.">
- <caption>Combat Results with combined hero and enemy endurance losses</caption>
-
- <colgroup span="1" />
- <colgroup span="13" />
-
- <tfoot>
- <tr>
- <td colspan="14">Combat results are given enemy's endurance loss first followed by the hero's endurance loss. For example, "12/0" means that the enemy loses 12 endurance points while the hero loses 0 endurance points. A combat result of "k" means that the combatant is killed. For example, "0/k" means that the enemy loses 0 endurance points while the hero is killed.</td>
- </tr>
- </tfoot>
-
- <tbody>
- <tr>
- <th rowspan="2" scope="col">Random Number</th>
- <th colspan="13" scope="colgroup">Combat Ratio</th>
- </tr>
-
- <tr>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-11 or lower</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-10/ -9</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-8/ -7</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-6/ -5</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-4/ -3</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">-2/ -1</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">0</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">1/ 2</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">3/ 4</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">5/ 6</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">7/ 8</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">9/ 10</th>
- <th scope="col" axis="combat_ratio">11 or higher</th>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">1</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/6</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/4</td>
- <td>7/4</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">2</th>
- <td>0/k</td>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/3</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">3</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>0/7</td>
- <td>1/6</td>
- <td>2/5</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/3</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">4</th>
- <td>0/8</td>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/3</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">5</th>
- <td>1/7</td>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/2</td>
- <td>12/2</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">6</th>
- <td>2/6</td>
- <td>3/6</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/2</td>
- <td>10/2</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/1</td>
- <td>14/1</td>
- <td>16/1</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">7</th>
- <td>3/5</td>
- <td>4/5</td>
- <td>5/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/2</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/1</td>
- <td>11/1</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">8</th>
- <td>4/4</td>
- <td>8/4</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/1</td>
- <td>9/1</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">9</th>
- <td>5/3</td>
- <td>6/3</td>
- <td>7/2</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <th scope="row" axis="random_number">0</th>
- <td>6/0</td>
- <td>7/0</td>
- <td>8/0</td>
- <td>9/0</td>
- <td>10/0</td>
- <td>11/0</td>
- <td>12/0</td>
- <td>14/0</td>
- <td>16/0</td>
- <td>18/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- <td>k/0</td>
- </tr>
- </tbody>
- </table>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></a>) Replaced <quote>heavily-guarded</quote> with <quote>heavily guarded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote> that you will find in the front of this book, For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-8413-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-8413-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-10187-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fall to zero</quote> with <quote>fall to zero or below</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-10187-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a>) Capitalized all occurrences of <quote>discipline(s)</quote>. Set the Weapons list in initial capital letters instead of all capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote> (see front of this book)</quote>. Capitalized the items in the list rather than setting them in all capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="levels">Levels of Kai Training</a>) Replaced <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Kai Wisdom</a>) Removed <quote> at the front of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>pass of Moytura</quote> with <quote>Pass of Moytura</quote>, <quote>flat treeless</quote> with <quote>flat, treeless</quote>, <quote>rest neither</quote> with <quote>rest, neither</quote> and <quote>burden nor</quote> with <quote>burden, nor</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-35263-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-35263-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>Maaken mines, and</quote> with <quote>Maaken mines and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Replaced <quote>Captain<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>captain<ch.apos/>s</quote> and <quote>Captain</quote> with <quote>captain</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-41411-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-41411-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>) Replaced <quote>saddle and</quote> with <quote>saddle, and</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-43687-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>brings</quote> with <quote>bring</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-43687-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote> and <quote>saddle and</quote> with <quote>saddle, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>mission for</quote> with <quote>mission, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>end and</quote> with <quote>end, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Replaced <quote>tracks and</quote> with <quote>tracks, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>You reach the barricade and a wagon is pulled aside and you are carried in through the gap.<ch.ellips/></quote> with <quote>You reach the barricade, a wagon is pulled aside, and you are carried in through the gap.<ch.ellips/></quote> and <quote>Captain</quote> with <quote>captain</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-58349-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58349-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Replaced <quote>feet away, and</quote> with <quote>feet away and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Added a period to the end of the first paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>river, is</quote> with <quote>river is</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-64952-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>now your brave company</quote> with <quote>now that your brave company</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64952-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced <quote>ahead, and</quote> with <quote>ahead and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Changed the choice which led to <a idref="sect270">Section 270</a> to point to <a idref="sect183">Section 183</a>. <a idref="sect270">Section 270</a> is further back in the story than <a idref="sect34">Section 34</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Replaced <quote>force, that</quote> with <quote>force that</quote>, <quote>Eshnar but</quote> with <quote>Eshnar, but</quote>, and <quote>dancing.</quote> with <quote>dancing.<ch.apos/></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>black and</quote> with <quote>black, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>Tracking and</quote> with <quote>Tracking, and</quote>. Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) Replaced <quote>Gnadurn</quote> with <quote>gnadurn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced <quote>back and</quote> with <quote>back, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>foot and</quote> with <quote>foot, and</quote> and <quote>wounded; but</quote> with <quote>wounded, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>large, and</quote> with <quote>large and</quote>. Moved the Animal Kinship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) Replaced <quote>shut and</quote> with <quote>shut, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>desoltate</quote> with <quote>desolate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Replaced <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>side-step</quote> with <quote>sidestep</quote> and <quote>foot and</quote> with <quote>foot, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Replaced <quote>down but</quote> with <quote>down, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) Replaced <quote>counter-charge</quote> with <quote>countercharge</quote> and <quote>mid-air and</quote> with <quote>mid-air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>razor sharp</quote> with <quote>razor-sharp</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Replaced <quote>away and</quote> with <quote>away, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Replaced the middle choice <quote>If you wish to dive into the tall crops and hide,</quote> with <quote>If you do not have this Special Item or this Discipline and Kai Rank, dive into the tall crops and hide by <a idref="sect159">turning to 159</a>.</quote> and moved it to the bottom. Also replaced <quote>duties and</quote> with <quote>duties, and</quote> and <quote>tracks and</quote> with <quote>tracks, and</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-100596-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>spreadeagled</quote> with <quote>spread-eagled</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100596-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>enemy, which</quote> with <quote>enemy which</quote> and <quote>you, and</quote> with <quote>you and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-102151-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102151-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>incident and</quote> with <quote>incident, and</quote> and <quote>burnt out</quote> with <quote>burnt-out</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>him, than</quote> with <quote>him than</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect78">78</a>) Replaced <quote>neckchains</quote> with <quote>neck-chains</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>) Replaced <quote>excavation and</quote> with <quote>excavation, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>interior you</quote> with <quote>interior, you</quote> and <quote>robe and</quote> with <quote>robe, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon but</quote> with <quote>weapon, but</quote> and <quote>hard unyielding</quote> with <quote>hard, unyielding</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>Ruanon, and</quote> with <quote>Ruanon and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-115516-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115516-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense or Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) Replaced <quote>ground and</quote> with <quote>ground, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>horseback and</quote> with <quote>horseback, and</quote>, <quote>Torches</quote> with <quote>torches</quote>, and <quote>Torch</quote> with <quote>torch</quote>. The torches mentioned are not available to keep for later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>town, and</quote> with <quote>town and</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Made the last sentence its own paragraph for the sake of automatic formatting.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) Replaced <quote>river and</quote> with <quote>river, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>stamina you</quote> with <quote>stamina, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Replaced <quote>out and</quote> with <quote>out, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>boot, and</quote> with <quote>boot and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>coach and</quote> with <quote>coach, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>lightning fast</quote> with <quote>lightning-fast</quote>, <quote>longsword, and</quote> with <quote>longsword and</quote>, and <quote>side and</quote> with <quote>side, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Replaced <quote>shield wall</quote> with <quote>shield-wall</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replaced <quote>bed, and</quote> with <quote>bed and</quote>, <quote>Captain; his</quote> with <quote>captain. His</quote>, <quote>mission and</quote> with <quote>mission, and</quote> and <quote>them but</quote> with <quote>them, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Replaced <quote>subsided and</quote> with <quote>subsided, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>locked. But</quote> with <quote>locked, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Replaced <quote>stolid but</quote> with <quote>stolid, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>dreams but</quote> with <quote>dreams, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>Pike and</quote> with <quote>Pike, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>trapdoor but</quote> with <quote>trapdoor, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Split the two sentences of the last paragraph into separate paragraphs for the sake of automatic formatting.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>) Replaced <quote>fast flowing</quote> with <quote>fast-flowing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>empty but</quote> with <quote>empty, but</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-157199-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>checkered</quote> with <quote>chequered</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-157199-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Moved the choice regarding losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Replaced <quote>one and</quote> with <quote>one, and</quote> and <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-160416-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-160416-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Replaced <quote>action; for</quote> with <quote>action, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>foe but</quote> with <quote>foe, but</quote>, <quote>Captain<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>captain<ch.apos/>s</quote>, and both occurrences of <quote>Captain</quote> when not part of Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s name with <quote>captain</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>action; for</quote> with <quote>action, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>, <quote>rainswept</quote> with <quote>rain-swept</quote>, <quote>warriors, and</quote> with <quote>warriors and</quote>, and <quote>possibilities; a crypt</quote> with <quote>possibilities: a crypt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>Captain</quote> with <quote>captain</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>floor and</quote> with <quote>floor, and</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>leader; but</quote> with <quote>leader, but</quote>, <quote>wall and</quote> with <quote>wall, and</quote> and <quote>bow but</quote> with <quote>bow, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>battle, the</quote> with <quote>battle; the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Replaced <quote>awake totally</quote> with <quote>awake, totally</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>by</quote> with <quote>before</quote> in the last sentence for syntax clarity and consistency with <a idref="sect94">section 94</a>. Made the last sentence of the last paragraph its own paragraph for the sake of automatic formatting.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-184995-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>feet a sudden jolt</quote> with <quote>feel a sudden jolt</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-184995-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-185667-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-185667-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>) Replaced <quote>Vassagonian, but</quote> with <quote>Vassagonian but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>here, and</quote> with <quote>here and</quote> and <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Made the last paragraph its own sentence for the sake of automatic formatting.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) Replaced <quote>Dull satanic</quote> with <quote>Dull, satanic</quote> and <quote>move and</quote> with <quote>move, and</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>him and</quote> with <quote>him, and</quote> and <quote>long curved</quote> with <quote>long, curved</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-191298-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-191298-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>mile you</quote> with <quote>mile, you</quote> and <quote>journey, and</quote> with <quote>journey and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-193043-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-193043-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Replaced <quote>beyond and</quote> with <quote>beyond, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>ambush and</quote> with <quote>ambush, and</quote> and <quote>razor sharp</quote> with <quote>razor-sharp</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Replaced <quote>guards who</quote> with <quote>guards, who</quote> and <quote>men who</quote> with <quote>men, who</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>, <quote>cavern and</quote> with <quote>cavern, and</quote>, and <quote>darkness you</quote> with <quote>darkness, you</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-202189-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-202189-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>hit but</quote> with <quote>hit, but</quote> and <quote>fight; a</quote> with <quote>fight<ch.emdash/>a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>back and</quote> with <quote>back, and</quote>, <quote>oily black</quote> with <quote>oily, black</quote> and <quote>head, leaps</quote> with <quote>head leaps</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-207197-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-207197-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>the ranger</quote> with <quote>a ranger</quote> in the second sentence. At this point, there are still several rangers left in the company. Also replaced <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Replaced <quote>serated</quote> with <quote>serrated</quote> and <quote>chest and</quote> with <quote>chest, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) Added <quote>or if you have won in the first two rounds, </quote> to the choice. Also replaced <quote>risen you</quote> with <quote>risen, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>back and</quote> with <quote>back, and</quote>, <quote>horses and</quote> with <quote>horses, and</quote>, <quote>shutters and</quote> with <quote>shutters, and</quote> and <quote>tonight, and</quote> with <quote>tonight and</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-216359-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216359-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>gasp and</quote> with <quote>gasp, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote> and <quote>tower a tattered</quote> with <quote>tower, a tattered</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>dry and</quote> with <quote>dry, and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-220912-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fungi absorbs</quote> with <quote>fungi absorb</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-220912-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>) Replaced <quote>armour and </quote>to <quote>armour, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>) Replaced <quote>inwards and</quote> with <quote>inwards, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) Replaced <quote>returned and</quote> with <quote>returned, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Replaced <quote>wall, and</quote> with <quote>wall and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>, <quote>dead-end</quote> with <quote>dead end</quote>, <quote>tunnel; a</quote> with <quote>tunnel<ch.emdash/>a</quote> and <quote>excavated and</quote> with <quote>excavated, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote> in the illustration caption.<!--ERRTAG-RE-228193-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-228193-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-229695-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Durncrag mountains</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Mountains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-229695-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Replaced <quote>well for</quote> with <quote>well, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced <quote>lights, make</quote> with <quote>lights make</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>) Replaced <quote>effort, do</quote> with <quote>effort do</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-236493-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>shute</quote> with <quote>chute</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-236493-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Replaced <quote>here and</quote> with <quote>here, and</quote> and <quote>stairs, by</quote> with <quote>stairs by</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-240849-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-240849-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>) Moved the Tracking or Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) Replaced <quote>burst but</quote> with <quote>burst, but</quote>, <quote>sweat and</quote> with <quote>sweat, and</quote>, <quote>small pink</quote> with <quote>small pink</quote> and <quote>leg and</quote> with <quote>leg, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>tree-trunks</quote> with <quote>tree trunks</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>items but</quote> with <quote>items, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Replaced <quote>bridge but</quote> with <quote>bridge, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>boat you</quote> with <quote>boat, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233">233</a>) Replaced <quote>warriors, dressed</quote> with <quote>warriors dressed</quote> and <quote>advance but</quote> with <quote>advance, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon you</quote> with <quote>weapon, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow-slits</quote> with <quote>arrow slits</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) Replaced <quote>disc but</quote> with <quote>disc, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>counter-charge, and</quote> with <quote>countercharge and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) Replaced <quote>dull satanic</quote> with <quote>dull, satanic</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote><ch.eacute/>lite</quote>, <quote>highway and</quote> with <quote>highway, and</quote>, <quote>firewood and</quote> with <quote>firewood, and</quote> and <quote>incident and</quote> with <quote>incident, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>thin chiselled</quote> with <quote>thin, chiselled</quote>, <quote>cavalry; a tall</quote> with <quote>cavalry<ch.emdash/>a tall</quote> and <quote>tall dark-skinned</quote> with <quote>tall, dark-skinned</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>treeline</quote> with <quote>tree-line</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">253</a>) Replaced <quote>them and</quote> with <quote>them, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced <quote>scouts but</quote> with <quote>scouts, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>Captain, and</quote> with <quote>captain and</quote> and <quote>Ruanon, and</quote> with <quote>Ruanon and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>bridge, but</quote> with <quote>bridge but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced the middle choice <quote>If you wish to dive into the tall crops and hide, </quote> with <quote>If you do not have this Special Item or this Discipline and Kai Rank, dive into the tall crops and hide by <a idref="sect159">turning to 159</a>. </quote> and moved it to the bottom. Also replaced <quote>crops you</quote> with <quote>crops, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Added <quote>or if you have won in the first three rounds, </quote> to the choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Replaced <quote>strike but</quote> with <quote>strike, but</quote> and <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>trees you</quote> with <quote>trees, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow-slits</quote> with <quote>arrow slits</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Replaced <quote>coup de grace</quote> with <quote>coup de gr<ch.acirc/>ce</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) Replaced <quote>approach and</quote> with <quote>approach, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>sommersaulted</quote> with <quote>somersaulted</quote> and <quote>wounds, and</quote> with <quote>wounds and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>) Replaced <quote>ground and</quote> with <quote>ground, and</quote> and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>Stoneworm and</quote> with <quote>Stoneworm, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>pounce and</quote> with <quote>pounce, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect278">278</a>) Replaced <quote>trees but</quote> with <quote>trees, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow-slit</quote> with <quote>arrow slit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>) Replaced <quote>bridge but</quote> with <quote>bridge, but</quote> and <quote>who it is and</quote> with <quote>who it is, and</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-293159-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293159-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect281">281</a>) Replaced <quote>re-light</quote> with <quote>relight</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote>stiff but</quote> with <quote>stiff, but</quote>, <quote>gives and</quote> with <quote>gives, and</quote> and <quote>terror into</quote> with <quote>terror, into</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>) Replaced <quote>face and</quote> with <quote>face, and</quote> and <quote>fire and</quote> with <quote>fire, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>) Replaced <quote>bolts and</quote> with <quote>bolts, and</quote> and <quote>bolts and</quote> with <quote>bolts, and</quote>..</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>deluge and</quote> with <quote>deluge, and</quote>, <quote>Captain<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>captain<ch.apos/>s</quote>, <quote>help the Captain</quote> with <quote>help the captain</quote>, and <quote>ablaze and</quote> with <quote>ablaze, and</quote>. Moved the Warmarn choice into the first position.<!--ERRTAG-RE-302201-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-302201-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Replaced <quote>blade and the semi-circles</quote> with <quote>blade, and the semicircles</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>gantry and</quote> with <quote>gantry, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Took out the second choice, which read <quote>If you have a Flask of Holy Water, <a idref="sect283">turn to 283</a>.</quote> and replaced the bottom choice <quote>If you do not possess either,<ch.ellips/></quote> with <quote>If you do not possess this Special Item,<ch.ellips/></quote>. With this choice removed, <a idref="sect274">Section 274</a> is no longer redundant.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>blows, fade</quote> with <quote>blows fade</quote> and <quote>mind, and</quote> with <quote>mind and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>fall but</quote> with <quote>fall, but</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-311346-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rain</quote> with <quote>rains</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311346-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>screams and</quote> with <quote>screams, and</quote> and <quote>Captain</quote> with <quote>captain</quote>.</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-314597-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>posses</quote> with <quote>possess</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-314597-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Replaced <quote>ladder and</quote> with <quote>ladder, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>slovenlinesss</quote> with <quote>slovenliness</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>voice and</quote> with <quote>voice, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>pace and</quote> with <quote>pace, and</quote> and <quote>Ruanon but</quote> with <quote>Ruanon, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>ground, its</quote> with <quote>ground; its</quote> and <quote>combat and</quote> with <quote>combat, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced <quote>minutes you</quote> with <quote>minutes, you</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-322208-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>each of the ramps are guarded</quote> with <quote>each of the ramps is guarded</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-322208-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>spear-haft</quote> with <quote>spear haft</quote> and <quote>thrust, and</quote> with <quote>thrust and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>) Replaced <quote>horses and</quote> with <quote>horses, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>) Replaced <quote>leg, and</quote> with <quote>leg and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Replaced <quote>duties and</quote> with <quote>duties, and</quote> and <quote>window and</quote> with <quote>window, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>damp and</quote> with <quote>damp, and</quote>. Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>war-lord</quote> with <quote>warlord</quote> and <quote>dead and</quote> with <quote>dead, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>Torch you</quote> with <quote>Torch, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow and</quote> with <quote>arrow, and</quote> and <quote>bandit-leader</quote> with <quote>Bandit Leader</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>first floor</quote> with <quote>first-floor</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-338009-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338009-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>will and</quote> with <quote>will, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>south you</quote> with <quote>south, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Captain</quote> with <quote>captain</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>tree-trunks</quote> with <quote>tree trunks</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Replaced <quote>recognise</quote> with <quote>recognize</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>spin and</quote> with <quote>spin, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Replaced <quote>clean and</quote> with <quote>clean, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>teeth you</quote> with <quote>teeth, you</quote>, <quote>hard unyielding</quote> with <quote>hard, unyielding</quote>, <quote>floor you</quote> with <quote>floor, you</quote>, and <quote>discard it or</quote> with <quote>discard it, or</quote>. Made the last sentence its own paragraph for the sake of automatic formatting.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Replaced <quote>left hand</quote> with <quote>left-hand</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced <quote>escape but</quote> with <quote>escape, but</quote>, <quote>trapdoor, desperately</quote> with <quote>trapdoor desperately</quote> and <quote>back; but</quote> with <quote>back, but</quote>..</p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-356709-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the the</quote> with <quote>the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-356709-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>Maakengorge; for</quote> with <quote>Maakengorge, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect14">Section 14</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect26">Section 26</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect37">Section 37</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect67">Section 67</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect84">Section 84</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect100">Section 100</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect124">Section 124</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect142">Section 142</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect148">Section 148</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect168">Section 168</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect193">Section 193</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect209">Section 209</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect223">Section 223</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect249">Section 249</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect258">Section 258</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect273">Section 273</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect289">Section 289</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect308">Section 308</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect343">Section 343</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Southern Sommerlund</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a></li>
- <li><a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect7">Section 7</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect10">Section 10</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect20">Section 20</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect31">Section 31</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect44">Section 44</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect55">Section 55</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect71">Section 71</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect80">Section 80</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect93">Section 93</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect107">Section 107</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect114">Section 114</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect132">Section 132</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect145">Section 145</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect159">Section 159</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect174">Section 174</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect183">Section 183</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect195">Section 195</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect200">Section 200</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect215">Section 215</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect232">Section 232</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect257">Section 257</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect266">Section 266</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect283">Section 283</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect290">Section 290</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect299">Section 299</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect314">Section 314</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect328">Section 328</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect335">Section 335</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-</gamebook>
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-Revision 1.14 2005/10/09 14:26:23 angantyr
-Corrected the last oversights and issues found by Simon. Ready to publish!
-
-Revision 1.13 2005/10/01 21:32:17 angantyr
-Fixed some recent errata and added/updated footnote entries having to do
-with insufficient WILLPOWER. Also made some small illustrations adjustments.
-
-Revision 1.12 2005/08/21 21:01:13 angantyr
-Corrected small *ne and XML issues.
-
-Revision 1.11 2005/08/12 23:23:51 jonathan.blake
-Minor updates and illustration corrections.
-
-Revision 1.10 2005/07/14 17:42:59 jonathan.blake
-Removed spurious CR-CR line terminations
-
-Revision 1.9 2005/05/30 19:35:11 angantyr
-Added correct dimensions for the Alchemy illustration.
-
-Revision 1.8 2005/05/29 20:48:00 angantyr
-Final(?) update before publication.
-
-Revision 1.7 2005/05/22 21:45:14 angantyr
-This is the Comment Period ready version.
-
-Revision 1.6 2005/05/06 18:33:07 angantyr
-Added the magicks illustrations and implements lots of more errata and footnotes.
-
-Revision 1.5 2005/04/02 19:25:59 angantyr
-Implemented a bunch of errata and footnotes.
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/02/13 21:37:40 angantyr
-Included large illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/02/05 21:10:33 angantyr
-Updated with the first batch of fixed errata, and started replacing Chris's
-illustrations with Paul Bonner's originals.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/21 19:03:09 angantyr
-Initial Freepository revision, of the 2004-10-22 "in progress" version.
-
-2004-10-22:
-- Fixed all *ne this far (as identified by Simon)
-- Removed now obsolete errata comments (incl. David Harvey's list)
-- Added already fixed stuff to errata list
--->
-
-<!-- thomas:
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-- Fixing ' é &emdash; &endash; <quote>
-- Backmatter creation (pure cut & paste)
-- adding missing stuff at the end of section 1
-- encoded choices in sectons 30, 150 and 304
-- Fixed some very obvious OCR *ne (W1LLPOWER -> WILLPOWER etc)
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/21 22:16:32 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-
--->
-
-
- <meta>
- <title>War of the Wizards</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Ian Page</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Text by Ian Page<br />Illustrated by Paul Bonner<br />Edited by Joe Dever</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.ian.page.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.gs;
- &inclusion.paul.bonner.bio.gs;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>10</month><day>09</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the Wizard Grey Star. You now face the tumultuous <!--ERRTAG-RE-2167-->climax of your epic struggle<!--/ERRTAG-RE-2167--> to overthrow the evil Wytch-king Shasarak. His cruel empire is torn by war as the Freedom Fighters rebel against his corrupt dominion. Can you reach them in time to free mankind? Can you overcome the Wytch-king's ferocious soldiers and the supernatural hordes that are his to command? Your only hope lies in your Wizard's Staff. Guard it well&emdash;for it contains the might of the mystic Moonstone, the very essence of your Magical Powers.</p>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-2248--><cite>The World of Lone Wolf</cite><!--/ERRTAG-RE-2248--> is an exciting adventure series in which you are the hero, you make the decisions, and you fight the combats using the unique systems included in the book.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Concept copyright © 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.<br />Text copyright © 1986 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1986 Paul Bonner.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Concept copyright © 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.<br />Text copyright © 1986 Ian Page.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1986 Paul Bonner.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">To Alison</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="coming" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Mike David</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Replacement Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Christopher Lundgren (map and small illustrations)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan (front matter)<br />David Harvey (Sections 1&endash;360)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Ingo Klöcker<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
-<!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd>-->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br />Wolf Ewing<br />Xavier Mataillet<br />Justin Parks<br />Jennifer Sigman<br />Iain Smith</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="coming">
- <meta>
- <title>Of the Coming of Grey Star</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
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- <data>
- <p>Ancient days they were when first the Shianti set foot upon the land that men call Magnamund. Long had they journeyed through the void, homeless wanderers in search of a pace to call their own. And so it was that when the Shianti first looked upon the face of the land, their hearts were raised in wonder. They saw a world of nameless mountains, untamed forests and lands both wild and free. Here they chose to cease their wanderings and to devote themselves to the study and appreciation of this <!--ERRTAG-RE-6265-->newfound<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6265--> land.</p>
- <p>To the delight of the Shianti, the race of man first emerged at this time and they watched his early struggle towards civilization with eager concern. Like gods, the Shianti seemed to the minds of primitive men. Tall and proud, shining with a radiance that spoke of magic and arcane mystery, the Shianti moved among them and with their powers of wizardry, aided man in his development.</p>
- <p>As the centuries passed, man fell to worship of the magical Shianti and the power of these wizards grew even stronger. With hungry hearts they sought to unlock the mysteries of knowledge, sending their minds into other planes of existence and strange worlds beyond the sphere of the material plane. Their foresight was now unmatched and the power of their thought was mighty indeed. It was at this time that they created the Moonstone. Woven of the very fabric of the astral plane of Daziarn, this translucent gem was the greatest achievement of Shianti wisdom. It was the binding force of all Shianti magic, containing the combined might of all their wizardry, the sum of all their knowledge. The Golden Age of the Shianti had come and the Moonstone was the instrument of their dominion throughout all Magnamund. Man stood as little more than a shadow, blinded by the shining white light of Shianti glory. But, in creating the Moonstone, the unwritten laws of nature had been transgressed. For the Moonstone, like the Shianti themselves, was something outside of man's own world; it defied the natural order laid down by the creators of the Earth and disrupted the balance that the gods had designed.</p>
- <p>The Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon and mother of all men, showed herself to the Shianti and spoke to them of the destiny of man: <quote>The children of this world must claim their inheritance. Their time has come and they must learn to stand alone. They are lost in their worship of you and the day draws ever nearer when they will covet the power of the Moonstone.</quote></p>
- <p>And the Shianti said: <quote>Forgive us, Great Goddess, for we intended no harm. We love mankind even as you do. We have sought to do good and protect your children from harm.</quote></p>
- <p>But Ishir replied, <quote>Of this there can be no doubt, but this world is not your realm. Man must be free to pursue his destiny alone, and you must leave, for you trespass on his domain.</quote></p>
- <p>The Shianti were filled with sorrow. They feared a return to the void and to their lonely wandering, and pleaded with Ishir that she might allow them to remain. Ishir was filled with pity for them. She spoke again, saying, <quote>If you are to remain, you must obey my command. You must take a vow never to interfere with mankind's fate. As a token of good faith you must lay aside the Moonstone, and return it to the plane where it belongs.</quote></p>
- <p>Solemnly, the Shianti agreed. The vow was sworn before Ishir, and the Moonstone was returned to the Daziarn. The Shianti then moved south to the Isle of Lorn. They encircled their new home with a web of enchantments, magical mists and mage winds to prevent man from ever finding their place of refuge in the Sea of Dreams.</p>
- <p>Knowledge of the Shianti faded with time, save in southern Magnamund where it became enshrined in legend, and the worship of them endured. Priests of the Shianti religion preserved their teachings and patiently awaited the day when the <quote>ancient ones</quote> would return, bringing with them lasting peace and the blessing of a new golden age.</p>
- <p>Two thousand years strode by and man advanced as Ishir had foretold. He built great cities and cultivated the land; his kingdoms rose and fell; he made war and loved and laughed and became master of his fate. But a new power was emerging in the province of Shadaki. There Shasarak the evil Wytch-king ruled. The black necromancer commanded an army of brutal soldiers and had a devoted following of men who upheld his religion of demonic worship and sacrificial rites. Devotees of the Shianti and other religious cults were persecuted in a merciless purge. Ruthlessly, the Wytch-king destroyed all his opponents and began a terrible war with the peoples of the neighbouring provinces. From the ruins of war Shasarak shaped the Shadakine Empire, subjugating whole nations to his evil rule. As the provinces fell to his might, the Shianti looked on helplessly, bound by their vow to the Goddess Ishir never to interfere in the affairs of man.</p>
- <p>On the night of the crowning of Shasarak as Overlord of the Shadakine Empire, a great storm broke upon the Sea of Dreams, a storm that raged with unnatural intensity. Lashed by wind and rain, illuminated by wild lightning, the waters heaved and danced in fury to the thundering music of the storm, unchecked by even the enchantments of the Shianti. When finally the tempest died, the Shianti looked out in amazement on the shattered hull of a ship drifting towards their shore. Never before had this occurred, for the enchantments and mage winds had kept them secure from the curiosity of man by forcing him to sail close to his own land.</p>
- <p>The Shianti went quickly to the ruined ship where they found only one survivor&emdash;a baby. They perceived the sudden arrival of this human child as a sign of great portent, and they conceived a plan by which they might lawfully aid mankind. They named the orphan child Grey Star, because a star is the symbol of hope in the Shianti faith, and because of the silver streak in the child's jet-black hair. In the shadow of the wrath of the Goddess Ishir, they raised the child as one of their own and taught him their secrets. Diligently they set about their instruction, for their aim was to provide a saviour for mankind. Armed with the might of Shianti wizardry and wisdom, their hope was to create an adversary equal in power to the evil Wytch-king of Shadaki, for they realized that only with the death of Shasarak would man once more be free to determine his destiny.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="coming" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
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- <data>
- <p>You are Grey Star, trained in the ancient lore of a Shianti wizard. For sixteen years you have dwelt in safety on the Isle of Lorn, the hidden realm of the magical Shianti race, until Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, sent you upon a dangerous quest to save your people, the race of man, from the evil rule of Shasarak, the tyrannical Wytch-king of the Shadakine Empire. Held by their ancient vow to the Goddess Ishir, the Shianti are unable to leave their island and come to the aid of man themselves but no such promise prohibited you from leaving the island and you were sent to recover the Moonstone and use its power to defeat the Wytch-king.</p>
- <p>The Moonstone, an artefact that possesses the combined force of all Shianti wisdom and power, was hidden on the Daziarn plane and you first had to find the invisible gateway to the Daziarn, the Shadow Gate. To help you find the Gate, you sought the Lost Tribe of Lara, a race of magical but primitive creatures called the Kundi, who possess the gift of astral vision, enabling them to see magic portals and gateways to other planes and dimensions. When Shasarak's Shadakine army first invaded the free provinces of the south, they came through the forests of the Mountains of Lara where the Kundi lived, and were constantly ambushed and delayed by the Kundi. The Kundi always eluded them, disappearing into the dense forest before the Shadakine could retaliate and, finally, in wrath, the Wytch-king burnt down the forests and forced the Kundi to flee south. No one knew where they came to rest.</p>
- <p>Voyaging across the Sea of Dreams, you came first to the city of Suhn, the largest port in the Shadakine Empire. There you were befriended by a cheerful merchant named Shan Li, a widely travelled man. Your questions about the Lost Tribe aroused suspicion in Suhn and you were captured and taken to the House of Correction, the prison of Suhn, and subjected to the truthsay of Mother Magri, Shadakine Wytch and Law-giver. With the aid of the power of the Kazim Stone, she attempted to read your mind, but you were able to preserve the secret of your quest.</p>
- <p>With the help of Tanith, a young and beautiful girl learning the ways of wytchcraft in the service of Mother Magri, you were able to escape from the House of Correction. With Shan as your guide, you eventually turned south and headed towards the region known as the Azanam, for it seemed likely that the Lost Tribe had settled there. However, again using the power of the Kazim Stone, Mother Magri summoned a Kleasá against you&emdash;a demon shadow that feeds upon the soul. Neither your Magical Powers, nor the might of your Wizard's Staff were able to defeat the Kleasá, and it had almost destroyed you when Tanith cast a spell and called the demon against herself. She was totally consumed by the Kleasá and both disappeared in flames. Her brave sacrifice saved your life.</p>
- <p>At the Azanam you found the Kundi and they gave you their Shaman, Urik the Wise, to guide you to the Shadow Gate. You travelled across the hostile lands of the Shadakine Empire and, close to the gates of the city of Karnali, you freed a man named Samu, a former king of the extinct tribe of the Masbate, from a Shadakine slave train. Then the leader of the rebel Freedom Guild, Sado of the Long Knife, enlisted your aid in freeing the city of Karnali from the rule of its Shadakine Wytch and her warriors, but you did not, for still you had to find the Shadow Gate. You journeyed on, accompanied by Samu, Urik, and a thief by the name of Hugi. On this later stage of your journey, you discovered that Shasarak was once a Shianti Master. So now you know your eventual confrontation will be with one versed in the same magical arts as yourself. You finally found the Shadow Gate beneath the wasteland of Desolation Valley, only to discover that the magic portal was guarded by a demon Kleasá, holding in its grasp Tanith, who had not after all been slain in her attempt to save you. Instead, the Kleasá had offered her to its master, Shasarak, as a prisoner. Using Tanith as a shield, the Kleasá withstood your attempts to gain entry to the Daziarn portal but at last you managed to force the Kleasá away from the Shadow Gate and stepped through to be reunited with Tanith.</p>
- <p>Together you entered the Daziarn plane which held many mysteries and perils, the worst of which was the Jahksa, a creature created in your likeness by Shasarak. You travelled through this strange, abstract world until, at last, you came to the Trianon, a chamber floating in the void. Within the Trianon was the Moonstone and, after a last paradoxical confrontation with the Jahksa in which the lawful and magical effects of the Moonstone were used, the Jahksa was defeated and the Moonstone made yours.</p>
- <p>With the Moonstone now resting in your hand, you begin the final part of your quest to defeat the Wytch-king. Armed with the might of the Moonstone, you now possess the only known power that can destroy Shasarak the renegade Shianti Wizard.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="powers" />
- </meta>
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- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1"><p>It is implied that you must pick a new <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> even if have already completed previous one or more <cite>Grey Star</cite> adventures. This conflicts with the rules for the <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> books where you carry over your score from a previous successfully completed adventure. For the sake of consistency, players may wish to carry over their existing score from the last <cite>Grey Star</cite> book they completed.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2"><p>The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 50 to their final <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score from the end of their last successfully completed <cite>Grey Star</cite> adventure.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-5-foot" idref="gamerulz-5"><p>There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. You may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative.</p>
- <p>Alternatively, you may may wish to use a method given in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>, which contains one such case of mandated use of magic: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, then you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point). If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>Note that you may never <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-3-foot" idref="gamerulz-3"><p>It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-4-foot" idref="gamerulz-4"><p>The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 30 to their final <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score from the end of their last successfully completed <cite>Grey Star</cite> adventure. In the <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> series, it is standard practice to restore one's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to their original total when carrying them over from one adventure to the next, but the power of the Moonstone seems to change those rules in this case.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
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- <data>
- <p>To keep a record of your adventure, use the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-17373/-->.<!--ERRTAG-DE-17447/--></p>
- <p>Before you set off on your adventure, you must discover how well your Shianti masters have prepared you for your quest by determining your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;your state of mind&emdash;<typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>&emdash;and your physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. To do this take a pencil and, with eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-17924/-->. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>The second number that you need is one to represent your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>. Do not use the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. You begin this adventure with a <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total of 50, as your first touch of the Moonstone of the Shianti regenerates your Magical Powers immediately. If you possess unused <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points from earlier Grey Star adventures, add them to the 50 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points which possession of the Moonstone grants you.<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote" /> Write the total in the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you decide to use a spell or the power of your Wizard's Staff, then you will lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero, or below, you may not use any spells<a id="gamerulz-5" idref="gamerulz-5-foot" class="footnote" /> or any additional <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in combat to increase the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss of an opponent.<a id="gamerulz-3" idref="gamerulz-3-foot" class="footnote" /> Lost <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure and it is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score to rise above the total with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p>The third attribute is your power of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. You start with a total of 30 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when your first touch of the Moonstone fills your body with energy and power. Add any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points gained from playing previous Grey Star adventures to your initial score of 30 and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<a id="gamerulz-4" idref="gamerulz-4-foot" class="footnote" /> If you are wounded in combat, you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure but can never rise above the number with which you began the adventure.</p>
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- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="powers">
- <meta>
- <title>Magical Powers</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
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- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="powers-1-foot" idref="powers-1"><p>The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Lesser Magicks again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Lesser Magicks again. If you have currently mastered five Lesser Magicks, you may choose one additional Lesser Magick from the list. If you have already mastered six Lesser Magicks, you keep these. If you choose Alchemy as a new Lesser Magick, or you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the Equipment section.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="powers-2-foot" idref="powers-2"><p>If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
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- <data>
- <p>There are thirteen Magical Powers, the first seven of which are called the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21665-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21665-->. Possession of the Moonstone reveals to you the secret of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-21787-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-21787--> known as the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21860-->Higher Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21860-->, of which there are six. If this is your first Grey Star adventure, you may choose five <!--ERRTAG-RA-21665-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21665--> and four <!--ERRTAG-RA-21860-->Higher Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21860-->. If you have successfully completed any of the previous Grey Star adventures, you may choose six <!--ERRTAG-RA-21665-->Lesser Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21665--> and five <!--ERRTAG-RA-21860-->Higher Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21860-->.<a id="powers-1" idref="powers-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
-
- <p>The Magical Powers available to you are listed below. When you have chosen your powers enter them in the Magical Powers section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lessmcks">
- <meta><title>The Lesser Magicks</title></meta>
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- <data>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="sorcery">
- <meta><title>Sorcery</title></meta>
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- <illustration class="inline">
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- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
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- <instance class="html" src="sorcery.gif" width="386" height="122" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-23142-->This Power allows<!--/ERRTAG-RE-23142--> a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points than any other Magical Power, and is most effective when your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points are high.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Sorcery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="enchant">
- <meta><title>Enchantment</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
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- <instance class="html" src="enchant.gif" width="386" height="130" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RE-24234-->Power of Enchantment<!--/ERRTAG-RE-24234--> enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Enchantment</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="elementl">
- <meta><title>Elementalism</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
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- <instance class="html" src="elementl.gif" width="386" height="118" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RE-25345-->Power of elemental magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-25345--> allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Elementalism</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Alchemy</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
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- <instance class="html" src="alchemy.gif" width="386" height="121" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- <p>A wizard who possesses the <!--ERRTAG-RE-26427-->Power of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26427--> is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e., <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>), or temporarily improve various abilities (e.g., <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>). The <!--ERRTAG-RE-26820-->use of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26820--> may also allow a wizard to alter the nature of substances (e.g., change lead into gold), but the necessary ingredients and the correct equipment (e.g., a pestle and mortar) must be at hand. The use of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-27087-->Power of Alchemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27087--> drains no <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590--> write <quote>Alchemy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prophecy">
- <meta><title>Prophecy</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="prophecy.gif" width="386" height="123" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RE-27855-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27855--> allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the <!--ERRTAG-RA-28331-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RA-28331-->.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Prophecy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="frontmatter" id="psycmncy">
- <meta><title>Psychomancy</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="psycmncy.gif" width="386" height="126" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-29050-->This Power bestows<!--/ERRTAG-RE-29050--> upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Psychomancy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evcation">
- <meta><title>Evocation</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="evcation.gif" width="386" height="131" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Mastery of <!--ERRTAG-RE-30231-->this Power permits<!--/ERRTAG-RE-30231--> contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Evocation</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="highmcks">
- <meta><title>The Higher Magicks</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="thamtrgy">
- <meta><title>Thaumaturgy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="thamtrgy.gif" width="386" height="128" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>This <!--ERRTAG-RA-31313-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-31313--> is an advanced form of Sorcery, the craft of magical energy. Where Sorcery allows a wizard to affect external things, Thaumaturgy affects the wizard himself. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-32304-->Power of Thaumaturgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-32304--> can bestow upon a wizard the power of levitation, a limited form of flying; invulnerability and increased strength; the ability to bend metal or warp wood by disturbing their molecules; and, perhaps the most useful of all, teleportation, that is, the ability to travel great distances in seconds by simply visualizing the destination.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Thaumaturgy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="telergy">
- <meta><title>Telergy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="telergy.gif" width="386" height="122" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>An advanced form of Enchantment, <!--ERRTAG-RE-33410-->Telergy is the Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33410--> of mind control, telepathy and autosuggestion. It enhances the tangibility of the illusions of Enchantment and allows you to control the minds of others. However, like Enchantment, some magical beings will be able to <!--ERRTAG-RE-33690-->resist this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33690-->.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Telergy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="physirgy">
- <meta><title>Physiurgy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="physirgy.gif" width="386" height="122" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Where Elementalism allows a wizard to summon the aid of the elemental spirits, the <!--ERRTAG-RA-31313-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-31313--> of <!--ERRTAG-RE-33577-->Physiurgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33577--> grants the wizard mastery over the elements. It allows him to command winds, open cracks in the earth, cause earthquakes, raise storms and create other weather effects.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Physiurgy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="theurgy">
- <meta><title>Theurgy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="theurgy.gif" width="386" height="126" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Theurgy is an advanced form of Alchemy. Possession of the Moonstone of the Shianti makes the casting of a larger number of spells possible. It unlocks the knowledge of more ingredients for mixing potions and reveals some of the special times, or ways, that they must be mixed. The power of the Moonstone acts as a charm for these potions. No <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points are required to make use of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-35886-->Power of Theurgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-35886--> but you are dependent on discovering the necessary ingredients for your potions during the course of your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Theurgy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="visionry">
- <meta><title>Visionary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="visionry.gif" width="386" height="124" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>With the aid of the Moonstone, you may use the skill of a Visionary to look upon events that are taking place elsewhere. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-36868-->Power of a Visionary<!--/ERRTAG-RE-36868--> is generally concerned with visual images of the present.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Visionary</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="necrmncy">
- <meta><title>Necromancy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="necrmncy.gif" width="386" height="120" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Necromancy is a higher form of Evocation. Where Evocation allows contact with the spirit world, Necromancy allows a wizard to command the dead, though this is forbidden by Shianti law. It also allows him to make an incantation that will imbue the Moonstone with a protective aura of light to keep away all creatures of evil, dead or alive.</p>
- <p>If you <!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-->choose this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-->, write <quote>Necromancy</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="staff">
- <meta><title>Wizard's Staff</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="staff.gif" width="386" height="120" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.<a id="powers-2" idref="powers-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in close combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and multiply the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy, accordingly. For example, if you chose to expend 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points on your attack, all enemy <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses would be multiplied by three.</p>
- <p>If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="moonston">
- <meta><title>The Moonstone</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="moonston.gif" width="386" height="130" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The Moonstone has many attributes, some of which are described in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-21860-->Higher Magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21860--> section and some of which you will discover during the course of your adventure. The Shianti have also given it the power to teleport you to Shasarak <em>once</em> during the course of your adventure. You will be told of that opportunity when the time is right.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="powers" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-1-foot" idref="equipmnt-1"><p>If you have completed a previous adventure, you keep all equipment you had at the end of that adventure. You do not receive any new equipment, unless you have just selected Alchemy as your sixth Lesser Magick, or if you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, in which case you receive a Herb Pouch with contents as indicated in this section.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-2-foot" idref="equipmnt-2"><p>If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy or the Higher Magick of Theurgy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wear the grey robe and hooded cloak of a Shianti Wizard. Your only weapon is your Wizard's Staff (note this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> under Weapons). You wear a Backpack containing 4 Meals (note under Meals on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), and you have been given a <a idref="map">map of the Shadakine Empire</a> (note under Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), which you place inside your robe.<a id="equipmnt-1" idref="equipmnt-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>If you have chosen <!--ERRTAG-RE-43547-->Alchemy or Theurgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-43547--> as one of your Magical Powers, then you will have a leather pouch for herbs and potions hanging from your belt. The Herb Pouch contains the following:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>2 empty Vials for carrying potions</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Saltpetre</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Sulphur</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>Mark these 4 items in your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Your Herb Pouch will carry a maximum of eight items.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Wizard's Staff&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Backpack&emdash;slung over the shoulder.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>The Moonstone&emdash;carried in the hand or in the Backpack, you must decide which. If carried in your Backpack, note it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. <!--ERRTAG-RE-49420-->It counts as one item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-49420-->.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>Any weapons and Special Items that you possess as a result of completing previous Grey Star adventures should be entered on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-44046/-->.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is <em>two</em>. Your Wizard's Staff counts as one weapon.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd><p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack, When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Nobles (Shadakine currency)</dt>
- <dd><p>These are carried in the pocket of your robe.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
-
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.<a id="equipmnt-2" idref="equipmnt-2-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> depends on your Wizard's Staff. If you do not possess your Staff when you enter combat you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat without a weapon, deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry <em>two</em> weapons at once.)</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember that you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at any one time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd><p>Each Special Item has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Currency</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of the Shadakine Empire is the Noble, which is a small jade stone. The system of money is alien to the Shianti, and for this reason you begin your adventure with no money. Whenever you kill an enemy, you may take any Nobles belonging to him and keep them in the pocket of your robe.</p></dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="sage" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Grey Star's aim during the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while at the same time losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Calculate your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total, based on the weapon you are using. (Remember, if you enter combat without your Staff, you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points.)</p></li>
- <li><p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p><a id="stage3">If you are using your Wizard's Staff</a>, decide how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use. (Remember, you must expend at least 1 point.) Enter this number on your Combat Record in the box marked <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Grey Star (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15, <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> 23) is ambushed by a Deathgaunt (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but he can use his Wizard's Staff against the creature as it swoops down on him. He subtracts the Deathgaunt's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −5. (15 − 20 = −5). −5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio. Grey Star decides to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, which is noted on the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> box of the Combat Record.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>When you have decided upon the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to use, and have determined your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-51332/-->. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it With the random number that you have picked. (The random numbers appear on the side of the chart.) You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by Grey Star. To calculate the number lost by the enemy, multiply this by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points that Grey Star elected to use. Now you have the final number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Grey Star and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; GS represents points lost by Grey Star.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Grey Star and the Deathgaunt has been established as −5, and Grey Star's <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used as 2. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <p>Grey Star loses 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Deathgaunt loses 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, multiplied by 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, giving a total of 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in all.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat, and Grey Star's amended <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points total.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Grey Star are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Grey Star is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Grey Star proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears <!--ERRTAG-RE-53701-->in the back of this book<!--/ERRTAG-RE-53701-->.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Grey Star may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sage">
- <meta>
- <title>Sage Advice</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now begins the last and most dangerous stage of your quest to vanquish the Wytch-king, Shasarak. Beware, for you must face many dangers before you are able to confront him at last.</p>
- <p>You will find items that might be of assistance on your quest. Some Special Items will help you, others may be of no use at all. You must decide what to keep.</p>
- <p>Special care must be taken when selecting your Magical Powers. Make sure that your combination of <!--ERRTAG-RE-55149-->Higher and Lesser magicks<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55149--> covers every eventuality. Also, it is worth remembering that some of these Magical Powers will be of little use to you during this part of your quest: <!--ERRTAG-RE-55363-->choose the Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55363--> you think you are most likely to require at this stage.</p>
- <p>Be cautious in your use of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, as your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> is the energy source for both your Magical Powers and your Wizard's Staff. If you have a low <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score when you <!--ERRTAG-RE-55758-->confront<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55758--> Shasarak, you may be easily defeated.</p>
- <p>Follow the path of wisdom, Wizard Grey Star. The way of fools is the road to destruction!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At last you hold the fabled Moonstone in your hand. It pulses and glows with a strange milky light. Tanith's eyes shine wildly, and your heart pounds with <!--ERRTAG-RE-56361-->excitement. The<!--/ERRTAG-RE-56361--> Moonstone; ancient vessel of all Shianti wisdom. What secrets, what powers, does this magical artefact hold in its glowing heart? The stone exudes a comforting warmth as it nestles in the palm of your hand and you feel a presence in your mind. You hear a familiar voice and your heart lifts to ever greater heights, for it is Acarya, High Wizard of the Shianti, speaking to you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>At last you hold the fabled Moonstone in your hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="641"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="641"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Hail Wizard, son of man. You have succeeded. We, the Shianti, rejoice and praise you. That which you hold in your hand contains the power that will enable you to defeat the evil Wytch-king, Shasarak.</quote></p>
- <p>A crowd of excited voices fills your mind as each of the Shianti sends words of congratulations and admiration. The last of these voices is Maiteya, your old friend, the Shianti master who taught you all you know. <quote>And so, <quote>little one</quote>,</quote> he says, affectionately <quote class="open-ended">now you possess the Moonstone, Shasarak's bane. While you hold it, we, the Shianti, are able to speak with you but this communication cannot be maintained much longer. Because you have the Moonstone, we have sufficient power to return you to the world, but there is much you should know before we do so. Listen well, Grey Star, for I know not when we will speak again.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Though it seems to you but a short time since you arrived at the Daziarn, seven years have passed here in the material world. During your search for the Shadow Gate, you visited the city of Karnali. Your arrival there inspired a revolution, led by Sado of the Long Knife and his Army of the Freedom Guild. After your departure, the Freedom Guild withstood a great siege by Shadakine warriors, who eventually withdrew defeated, much to Shasarak's displeasure. Word spread of this victory and the strength of the Army of the Freedom Guild grew. Strategically, Karnali was too isolated to make a great impact against the Shadakine Empire, but, due to the surrounding Gurlu Marshes, it remained self sufficient. Soon, many were travelling to Karnali to escape the tyranny of Shasarak's rule. Pockets of resistance broke out in the townships of Wenat, Zhanis, Sena and the city of Forlu, and the Freedom Guild soon dominated the hills and the plains of the south. They raided Shadakine supply trains and succeeded in depriving the empire of much of its wealth, cutting off all land routes to the Port of Suhn, the wealthiest and most important trade centre of the empire. An army is now formed in Karnali and, in three days, it will march against the Shadakine Empire, hoping to take Port Suhn in the first of many conquests. But, unknown to Sado and the Army of the Freedom Guild, a vast Shadakine force has been mustered in the Sadi desert. Soon, it will march against them. The Army of the Freedom Guild number ten thousand to the Shadakine's thirty thousand. The Freedom Guild cannot hope to succeed against such overwhelming odds. You must save them. Take them to the Forest of Fernmost. It is most important that you go there. There is little time and much to do Grey Star&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>The voice grows faint and you realize that the Shianti will be unable to maintain contact for much longer. <quote>And now, Grey Star, the contact breaks and we must return you to the world to begin the last of your great labours. Are there any last words of advice we can offer you?</quote></p>
- <p>Your mind races as you think of all that you might need to know.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you wish to know where the Shianti intend sending you, and where in the Shadakine Empire your quest will begin, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to hear the Shianti's own advice, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to see Shasarak himself, and perhaps discover something of his plans, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Alas, you have been too much weakened by earlier struggles. His strength has mastered yours as the last of your own <!--ERRTAG-RE-60653-->life-force<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60653--> is drained from your body. You have lost the duel and doomed all humanity to endure the reign of Shasarak's evil cruelty.</p>
- <p>You have failed, your adventure is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Tanith each grab a handle and begin to turn them. The wheels creak as the rope coils slowly around one end of the mounting. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If the number you have picked is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk over to the Phinomel plant and examine it closely. It is flowering well and should provide a large supply. Gingerly you reach forward. The secret is to reach behind the pods and twist their stalks with a swift, nimble movement: it will require a cool, steady hand.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> totals. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add it to the result.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If your total is 50 or more, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If your total is 30&endash;49 <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If your total is less than 30, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You triumph and, with a last surge of energy, throw Shasarak tumbling to the end of the hall. Unfortunately the force of the attack shatters your Staff. On hands and knees, Shasarak crawls towards the wall of fire, muttering in choked breaths, <quote>You shall not have me. You shall not have me.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly he reaches out with his hands. <quote>Agarash, our bargain!</quote> he screams. Agarash laughs once more. A plume of flame snakes out from the wall and wreathes itself around the Wytch-king.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you wish to allow Shasarak to step through the flaming wall, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you possess 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, and wish to fill the Moonstone with your power and hurl it against the wall, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We will advise you as best we can,</quote> he replies. <quote>Although it is your own wisdom that has brought you, this far, you should not be afraid to trust your own judgement. In the matter of the inevitable challenge of Shasarak, we advise you not to stand against him immediately. He embarks now on a war that will be costly to his strength and demanding of his powers. Wait for him to weaken himself with some great deed of sorcery before journeying into his dark halls for the final duel. First ensure the <!--ERRTAG-RE-64078-->safety<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64078--> of the Army of the Freedom Guild. Without your help, they will perish. Be on the constant lookout for allies, for the Wytch-king has many enemies, and look to the Forest of Fernmost&emdash;a mighty power dwells there and it will do well in your service.</quote></p>
- <p>His voice grows faint.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you summon the mighty powers of the waters of the river Dosar, bending the river to your need. Suddenly a tall tower of water explodes all around the bridge, breaking its stones and instantly destroying the once sturdy structure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It looks likely that you will have to do battle with the demon horde. You decide to take advantage of the protection the Theurgic Potion offers and quickly swallow the dark, bitter liquid. Gradually your body begins to glow with a strange, blue light. Remember that the effects of the Potion will begin to fade in only a few hours.</p>
- <p>Delete the Potion of Invulnerability from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may keep the <!--ERRTAG-RE-70019-->empty Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RE-70019--> and include it as an item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>: keep it in your Herb Pouch or in your Backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121"><link-text>Turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Wait here,</quote> you instruct Tanith.</p>
- <p><quote>Wait?</quote> she retorts, defiantly. <quote>Have I not stood by you in the face of terror, fought at your side, matched you, courage for courage, deed for deed?</quote> She sniffs derisively. <quote>I'll not stand back now like some feeble girl afraid of her own shadow!</quote></p>
- <p>You know there is no point in arguing with her, especially when so much of what she says is true. The two of you stride forward, prepared to meet whatever danger awaits you together.</p>
- <p>You have travelled for two miles when Tanith stops, peering into the shimmering heat haze and shielding her eyes against the sun with her hand. <quote>They come,</quote> she says, dispassionately.</p>
- <p>Following the direction of her gaze, you see something stirring in the distance. You notice a low dust haze hanging in the air, a running cloud drifting against the flat expanse of the plain. There are four runners and they are heading straight towards you. As they come closer, you are able to see that they are ghastly, malformed creatures, each deformed in a different way. These are demons, summoned long ago by the Wytch-king, Shasarak, to plague the tribe of the Masbaté, the warrior people that ruled here before Shasarak unleashed the demonic horde that destroyed them. When the demons had fulfilled their purpose, Shasarak left them to roam these plains at will, instead of returning them to the deep hell from which he summoned them. The leading creature has green, shining skin and a tail. Its neckless head bears the features of a toad. With a feral scream it charges towards you. The others follow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery, and wish to use it to aid you in the battle, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you have the Magical Power of Thaumaturgy and wish to use this <!--ERRTAG-RA-68217-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-68217--> to aid you, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you <!--ERRTAG-RE-68510-->are versed<!--/ERRTAG-RE-68510--> in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-68217-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-68217--> of Telergy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to attempt a long-range attack with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to wait for them to approach, so that you can engage them in close combat, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is the morning of the day you must attempt to close the demon portal of Tilos. You bid Tanith a sad farewell. Eyes brimming with tears, you share a fond embrace before she is led east along the mountain trail by a Masbaté warrior, towards whatever doom awaits her at the hands of Mother Magri in the city of Suhn. She can be saved only by a swift and total victory over the Wytch-king.</p>
- <p>You turn to King Samu. <quote>We must prepare to move,</quote> you say. <quote>Gather your men. We must make plans.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-69440-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-69440--> of <!--ERRTAG-RE-69497-->Theurgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-69497-->, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-69440-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-69440--> of Thaumaturgy, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-69440-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-69440--> of Necromancy, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you do not possess any of <!--ERRTAG-RE-70005-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-70005-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With consummate ease, you manage to strip the plant of its pods entirely. Your harvest yields nine pods. They are so small that nine pods only take up the space of three items in your Herb Pouch. Remember to write the <!--ERRTAG-RA-75078-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RA-75078--> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If there is not room in your Herb Pouch, you may carry some, or all, of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-75078-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RA-75078--> as Backpack Items.</p>
- <p>With a satisfied nod, you finish packing away your new find and continue on your journey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You smash the fabric that binds the skeleton's body but you are fighting the creature with magic. Your fellow soldiers do not have the same advantage and the air is filled with their terrified cries. Many are being slain and, as they die, Shasarak's spell takes them, and they rise to fight once more as soldiers of the undead. Those that survive find themselves fighting their friends and comrades. The powers you possess protect only you from attack. You can save the <!--ERRTAG-RE-76088-->Freedom Guild<!--/ERRTAG-RE-76088--> only by destroying Shasarak. The time has come: you must go to him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-71597-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-71597--> of <!--ERRTAG-RE-74444-->Thaumaturgy, you may deduct<!--/ERRTAG-RE-74444--> 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points from your total to cast a teleportation spell, and <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have a Temeris potion, you may use it to teleport without using any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points; <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you are using the power of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-72083-->Dimension Door<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72083--> locked in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-74992-->Moonstone, you may deduct<!--/ERRTAG-RE-74992--> 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points from your total to teleport, and <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice>If you are unable to teleport by any of these means, then you have failed in your quest and your adventure is over.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature falls dead amid a flurry of fiery blows. As you fought, the rest of the pack have been creeping towards you slowly and now stand only a few yards away. The death of their leader caused great consternation among their ranks, although they seem confident enough to attack at any moment. They realize now that you fight alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you wish to fire a long-range blast from your Staff, before turning and running, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to turn and run immediately, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to stand against the demon horde, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn east. The sun's heat grows less intense as the day passes and you are able to walk at a quicker pace. The afternoon passes and, though there are still several hours of daylight left, your anxiety grows. There has been no sign of a stream or water hole and you will never find one in the dark. You will be able to survive for some time without food but you must find water soon.</p>
- <p>Tanith looks around uneasily. <quote>We are being watched,</quote> she says. You nod. You can also feel the weight of many eyes bearing down on you. Malevolence hangs heavily in the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you are carrying the Moonstone in your hand, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you are carrying it in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the Lissan Plain the herbs and flowers that you need to mix a potion of invulnerability grow in abundance. Made from the leaves of the Zakutsk flower and the root of the Demeril bush, the potion is mixed with salt and spring water beneath the rays of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-74659-->midday<!--/ERRTAG-RE-74659--> sun. It will protect your body from physical harm for only a few hours, but might prove invaluable in your attempt to close the portal of Tilos should you be forced to face an attack by the demons of the Lissan Plain, either on your way to the portal, or afterwards, when you are trying to lure the demon horde against the Shadakine army marching towards the <!--ERRTAG-RE-75069-->bridge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75069--> at Lanzi.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you <!--ERRTAG-RE-78072-->wish to use the Power of Theurgy and ask<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78072--> the Masbaté to gather the ingredients for the potion, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you prefer to use the <!--ERRTAG-RA-75351-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-75351--> of Thaumaturgy, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you prefer to use the <!--ERRTAG-RA-75351-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-75351--> of Necromancy, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you prefer not to use the Magical Powers of Theurgy, Thaumaturgy, or Necromancy, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Careful as you might be, you are unable to avoid disturbing a Phinomel branch to your left. Two pods emit a jet of viscid purple fluid. One jet misses but, unfortunately, the second splashes your arm, quickly burning through the fabric of your robe and causing a searing pain as it burns your flesh. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You have managed to procure six <!--ERRTAG-RA-81194-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RA-81194-->. As they are so small, the six pods take the room of only two items in your Herb Pouch. If there is not room in your Herb Pouch, you may carry some, or all, of the pods as Backpack Items.</p>
- <p>Despite a rather painful experience, you nod to yourself approvingly, sure that the <!--ERRTAG-RA-81194-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RA-81194--> will be useful, and continue on your search for Lake Dolani.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a scream, the horseman falls dead. Quickly you run over to his body. By stealing the dead horseman's uniform, you will be able to lead the demon horde against the Shadakine Army more easily, for the Shadakine will think that you are one of their own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you still have your Simar stallion, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If the stallion has been killed, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without the cognitive powers of Prophecy or Psychomancy, it is impossible for you to locate the mechanism that will open the doors. The only other solution is to use force but, judging from the thickness of the stone doors, it is likely to require a great deal of strength to break them open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you have the Magical Power of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it to open the doors, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery , and wish to use it to force open the doors, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to summon an elemental to open the doors, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you have learnt the <!--ERRTAG-RE-78389-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78389--> of Physiurgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to resume your journey towards Lake Dolani or do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-78630-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78630-->, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By using the Magical Power of Thaumaturgy, you will be able to weave a spell of invulnerability about yourself. The cost of this spell will be 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points if you wish the effect to last several hours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to create this spell of magical protection about yourself, to help you in your bid to close the demon portal in the hills of Tilos, <!--ERRTAG-RE-84570-->deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points<!--/ERRTAG-RE-84570--> from your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score and <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to use the <!--ERRTAG-RE-79497-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-79497--> of Necromancy in your bid to close the demon portal, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you do not wish to use either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-79718-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-79718-->, or do not possess them, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stunned and dizzy, you lie on the floor, unable to defend yourself. The Demon Master hovers above, its leathery wings beating. It stoops to deliver a killing blow. Bravely Tanith steps forward, dagger in hand, ready to defend you to the last. The demon minions swarm forward in glee and the position looks hopeless. Then, amid the whirl of your thoughts, you hear the cries of men and the clash of steel. Joyfully you see a gleam of shining metal flash above your head and the Demon Master's back arch with pain. Howling in agony it begins to fall. With lightning reactions, Tanith drags you to one side, seconds before the <!--ERRTAG-RE-80607-->lifeless<!--/ERRTAG-RE-80607--> and bloody corpse of the beast hits the ground with a jarring crash. A long, slim javelin protrudes from its back.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star,</quote> Tanith cries. <quote>We are saved!</quote></p>
- <p>She helps you into an upright position and you peer down the hall. Pouring through the entrance of the tomb comes a mass of tall warriors, swords bared and reaping a deadly harvest among the demonic ranks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you raise the Moonstone and light begins to pour from it. Shasarak scowls and takes a step back.</p>
- <p><quote>So you think the Moonstone is enough to defeat me do you? You forget the need for a mighty hand to wield it. Are you mighty, Grey Star?</quote></p>
- <p>Shasarak's words strike you like blows but you do not fail in your resolve. Effortlessly, Shasarak drains 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point from your body. You stagger as the <!--ERRTAG-RE-81876-->life-force<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81876--> is dragged from you.</p>
- <p><quote>You see?</quote> Shasarak sneers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to shield yourself with the Moonstone's light, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to strike Shasarak with the Moonstone's light, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you fire into the demon ranks. Two fall dead instantly and the rest scatter with howling shrieks and bestial cries. You turn and run, Tanith at your side. Your attack has bought you time to try to escape the overwhelming number of demons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89"><link-text>Turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bathed in the radiant aura of the Moonstone's protection, you continue the journey east. You top a rise and look down its gentle slope. Ahead, you can see a sparkling river. With a cry of joy, you and Tanith run towards it. At the water's edge you both drop to your knees to drink. Scooping up great mouthfuls of the cool water, you quench your raging thirst. You are on the banks of the Dolani river. Tanith tells you that its source is to the north east, in the Kashima Mountains. Its southerly course leads to lake Dolani, which she guesses to be at least thirty miles away. The river is too wide and deep to be crossed here, although it is likely to be narrower and shallower further upstream. At this point the light of the Moonstone, which you laid on the ground beside you before beginning to drink, starts to flicker as the power of your incantation fades. Suddenly Tanith cries out.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star!</quote> she screams. <quote>We are attacked!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Four fearsome creatures mount the rise.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="593"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="593"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You snatch up the Moonstone and spin round. Four fearsome creatures have mounted the rise behind you. As you watch, they rush towards you, coming to a cowering halt within twenty paces of you both. Afraid of the fading aura of the Moonstone as the light decreases, each takes another shambling step towards you. They are ghastly, malformed creatures, each with a different misshapen form. These are demons summoned long ago by the Wytch-king Shasarak to conquer the people who once inhabited the Lissan Plain. Having fulfilled their purpose, they were left to roam the plain by Shasarak. The leading demon&emdash;the largest&emdash;takes another step forward, its glistening green skin and toad-like features reflected in the dull light of the setting sun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to continue the necromantic incantation of protection that has almost faded from the Moonstone, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you prefer to launch long-range attack at the leading demon with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you wish to wait to see what the demons will do, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By using the Magical Power of Necromancy, you will be able to create an aura of protection against the forces of evil. You will have to expend 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to light the Moonstone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to use 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to create an aura of protection, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-85768-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85768--> of Thaumaturgy, and prefer to use <!--ERRTAG-RE-85858-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85858-->, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you do not wish to use either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-86027-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-86027-->, or do not possess them, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect25-1-foot" idref="sect25-1"><p>If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></footnote>
- <footnote id="sect25-2-foot" idref="sect25-2"><p>If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You both drink long and deep: the large bowl is almost empty before your thirst is sated. When you have finished you walk to the far end of the hall. Two flights of stairs lead up to a large platform. At the rear of the platform a vast and elaborate frieze has been carved from the wall. In the centre, a woman stands with arms outstretched in a gesture of welcome. She is wreathed in light and, standing all around her, are rows of men and women of proud bearing. This building must be the work of the Masbaté. The woman is a representation of the Great goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon, mother of all men, and the building is some form of temple or shrine.</p>
- <p>Another flight of steps leads from the platform to one of the many galleries that line the temple's walls. Cautiously you both mount these steps, passing through a doorway that opens on to one of the galleries. The fading light from above does not illuminate the high archways that lead off the gallery, and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you cause a light to glow from the top of your Staff. You peer through an archway to see a large chamber, its high ceiling lost in shadow, its corners shrouded in cobwebs. In the middle of the chamber stands a long pallet of grime-encrusted marble. With a start, you realize that a human form rests upon the pallet, but your panic soon subsides, for it is a dead man, a giant, with a huge broadsword clutched to his chest with withered hands. A necklace of blue stones hangs around his neck; a circlet of silver crowns his head. The brown, shrunken flesh has been partly preserved by some process of mummification, but the garments the corpse wears have all but mouldered away.</p>
- <p>Inspection of the remaining chambers on this floor confirms that this is an ancient Masbaté tomb. Each chamber is a crypt, in which the Masbaté have laid their dead to rest with their weapons of war and personal effects. The tomb of the Masbaté was probably served by guardians before Shasarak summoned the plague of demons that eventually destroyed the Masbaté tribe. Tanith arms herself with a long dagger from one of the chambers. She also takes a sling and a number of stones. You may keep any of the following items that you find in the various chambers:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-88666-->Coil of Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88666--> (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-88761-->Sword and Sheath<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88761--> (hung from the belt)<a id="sect25-1" idref="sect25-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-88850-->Spear<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88850--> (held in the hand)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-88949-->Dagger and Sheath<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88949--> (hung from the belt)<a id="sect25-2" idref="sect25-2-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-89045-->Water Bottle<!--/ERRTAG-RE-89045--> (hung over the shoulder by a strap)</li>
- <li>4 unlit Torches (<!--ERRTAG-RE-95335-->each Torch counts as one Backpack Item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-95335-->)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-89223-->Tinderbox<!--/ERRTAG-RE-89223--> (Backpack Item)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember to mark any items that you keep on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The light from the shafts has faded completely. Night has fallen. You are both very tired and, after further exploration, you discover an empty chamber and both settle down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your will on the stone fabric of the bridge, using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. With a thunderous explosion, it collapses into rubble and falls into the waters below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instantly you make a dash in the opposite direction. With a murderous howl, the pack chases after you. They are hot on your heels, and within moments you are caught and dragged to the ground.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest and your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The demon opens its mouth and bares a tangle of fanged teeth. It lunges at you, and, as you swerve to receive its attack, you realize that your back is undefended against the other three demons. However, you must fight the toad demon first.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Toad Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You may only evade combat if you have lost less <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than your enemy in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you <!--ERRTAG-RE-96853-->evade combat, <link-text>turn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96853--> to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you win the combat within three rounds, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you and the enemy are still alive after three rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You will need to be able to move fast to escape the demon horde,</quote> says Samu. <quote>Long ago, we of the Masbaté bred a strain of horse called the Simar, renowned for its stamina and the ease with which it can be controlled. It will not shy away from danger.</quote></p>
- <p>A great white stallion is brought before you, harnessed and saddled. Gratefully, you thank Samu for his gift. The Masbaté are summoned and stand fitted and accoutred for battle before their king in a rocky escarpment shaped like a vast amphitheatre. They number a thousand men: a small number perhaps, but a mighty army nevertheless, for the Masbaté are formidable warriors. In a rousing speech, Samu tells them of the battle to come at the bridge at Lanzi, where you will rid their homeland of the demon plague forever. You receive a great cheer before Samu leads his people out of the mountains, towards Lanzi. A guide leads you to the other side of the mountains. The Shadakine Army is expected to reach the bridge at Lanzi within a day. In that time you must close the demon portal in the hills south of Tilos and lead the demons through the forested pass and against the Shadakine Army.</p>
- <p>At last you come to the edge of the Lissan Plain and your guide prepares to leave. Before he goes, he offers you the following items to help you in your adventure. You may keep any or all of them.</p>
- <ul>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-93131-->Backpack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93131--></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-93206-->Coil of Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93206--> (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-93297-->Water Bottle<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93297--> (Special Item&emdash;slung over the shoulder by a leather strap)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-93434-->Tinderbox<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93434--> (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-93518-->Sword<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93518--> (Weapon)</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-93616-->Masbaté Battle Horn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93616--> (Special Item&emdash;hung over the shoulder by a strap)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The guide returns to the mountains. You are alone. You urge the Simar horse into a trot and head north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you are already using the <!--ERRTAG-RE-100128-->Higher Magick of Necromancy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100128--> in the form of an incantation, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If not, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the Moonstone and your Staff held aloft you shout down at the demon horde, <quote>Begone creatures of darkness, minions of hell, slaves of terror! Beware the might of the Shianti and the sacred Moonstone of old.</quote></p>
- <p>Many of the smaller demons begin to whimper obscenely, while others vanish, blinking out like candles snuffed by the wind. You step on to the next stair and note with satisfaction that they hasten away with anguished cries, endeavouring to remain outside the protective ring of the Moonstone. Just as you begin to think that your ploy will work, a large shadow looms at the far end of the hall. A winged form stands silhouetted by the sunlight streaming through the entrance to the tomb. The sea of deformity parts before you and the timid moans and cries become crowing gloats of pleasure. To your dismay, the protective light of the Moonstone gutters as the power of your incantation begins to fade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rein the exhausted stallion to a halt. Your whole body aches as a result of its relentless, galloping stride. You gaze westward, certain that the pack are in pursuit, but there is no sign of them. Time passes and you begin to feel uneasy. The plain is flat and featureless, and the afternoon sky is clear enough to be able to see far into the distance, yet there is no sign of the demon plague.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to backtrack a little, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to continue east, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a low rumble, the stone door opens slowly, the rusted metal of the pulleys screeching amid the rasp of grating stone. The door is only <!--ERRTAG-RE-102090-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102090--> open when it grinds to a halt. The age-old mechanism has failed. However, the gap is sufficiently wide to admit a human form and soon you and Tanith are standing within the ziggurat, peering anxiously into the shadows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horseman's blow shears his <!--ERRTAG-RE-103438-->spear<!--/ERRTAG-RE-103438--> in half as he gallops past. He wheels, sword drawn, and dashes towards you again. Now you must fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After many hours, the ingredients are brought to <!--ERRTAG-RE-97332-->you. They<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97332--> must be ground and mixed together, then heated over a fire to form the potion. You <!--ERRTAG-RE-97461-->will<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97461--> need <!--ERRTAG-RE-97489-->a Pestle and Mortar<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97489--> and at least one <!--ERRTAG-RE-97562-->empty Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97562--> to do this. A Masbaté medicine man offers you the following to help you make the potion:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 empty Vials for carrying potions</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing <!--ERRTAG-RA-97811-->Saltpetre<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97811--></li>
- <li>1 Vial containing <!--ERRTAG-RA-97899-->Sulphur<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97899--></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-104268-->Pestle and Mortar<!--/ERRTAG-RE-104268--></li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-104342-->Tinderbox<!--/ERRTAG-RE-104342--></li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember to mark any items that you take on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. <!--ERRTAG-RE-98139-->The empty Vials<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98139-->, and those containing <!--ERRTAG-RA-97899-->Sulphur<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97899--> and <!--ERRTAG-RA-97811-->Saltpetre<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97811--> can be stored in your Herb Pouch. You may also keep a sprig of <!--ERRTAG-RE-98396-->Zakutsk Flower<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98396--> and a <!--ERRTAG-RE-98460-->Demeril Root<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98460-->, these must be carried in your Herb Pouch. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-98589-->Pestle and Mortar and the Tinderbox are Backpack Items,<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98589--> and <!--ERRTAG-RE-98667-->the Vials<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98667--> may be stored in your Backpack or your Herb Pouch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49"><link-text>Turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, the Moonstone begins to glow brightly and, as you repeat the words of your necromantic incantation, the radiant whiteness of its aura increases, clothing you and Tanith with luminescence. The toad demon gibbers, slavers, and then retreats with its arms thrown up in front of its disfigured face. The other demons howl in tortured anguish and back away. They linger outside the protective ring of the Moonstone, pacing in front of you, spitting and snarling their frustration.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to attack at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to advance on the demons and attempt to engage them in combat, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the evening draws in, the temperature begins to cool. You are tired and thirsty. You have been heading in the direction of Lake Dolani but <!--ERRTAG-RE-103788-->neither you nor Tanith has<!--/ERRTAG-RE-103788--> ever been to the Lissan Plain before and you are not sure of the lake's exact location. You know only that it lies on the southern side of the plain. You are now unsure that you can reach it by nightfall. Looking to the west, you see a large building of square, tiered stone. It is approximately two miles away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to investigate the building, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you prefer to continue, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Entranced, the rider trots towards you, hailing you as friend, for your magic controls him completely. When he has come close enough, you grab his leg and drag him from the saddle. So sudden is your action that the warrior is unable to resist. A swift blow to the back of his head knocks him unconscious. Now you can complete your plan. By dressing in the Shadakine uniform, you will be able to lead the demon host towards the Shadakine Army and they will think you one of their number. Quickly you don the uniform. Your Simar steed is exhausted but the Shadakine horse offers the chance of a fresh mount and greater speed. You slap the Simar's haunches and watch it trot away. The beast has served you well, and you offer a silent Shianti blessing that will keep it from harm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your vision clears and, as you regain your senses, you see that the warriors are men of the Masbaté, the tribe believed to be extinct after <!--ERRTAG-RE-101957-->persecution<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101957--> by the Wytch-king, Shasarak. With a flurry of sword blows, the Masbaté hew a bloody path towards you. Though they number less than fifty, their demonic foes seem powerless to resist, so swift and fierce is the attack. The demon horde scatters in all directions. Some <!--ERRTAG-RE-102291-->dematerialize<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102291-->&emdash;magic is inherent in their nature. Those that remain are slain mercilessly.</p>
- <p>When at last the battle is done, no living demon remains in the tomb, while, incredibly, the Masbaté have suffered no losses, only a scattering of light wounds. One of their number now stands before you. Like his comrades, the Masbaté warrior stands well over seven feet tall, his body rippling with muscle beneath skin as black as ebony. His hair is long and black and his eyes still burn with the fire of battle. He is clad only in a corselet of worn, padded leather. A scabbard slung low from a broad belt carries a massive broadsword of dull, grey metal. His only protective wear, a pair of metal wristbands, is engraved with the intricately worked design of a rearing horse. He gives you a speculative stare. It is not an altogether friendly gaze.</p>
- <p><quote>What do we have here?</quote> he booms, in a strong, yet melodious bass tone. <quote>A boy and a girl perhaps? Or demons in human guise, defilers of the sacred tomb of our forefathers. Speak now and swiftly. My blade is thirsty yet to drink the blood of more hellspawn.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you are able to speak, Tanith has risen to her feet, brandishing her dagger and scowling with the characteristic ferocity that you have come to know so well. <quote>You know not what you say,</quote> she snaps, menace in her voice. <quote>But for that, this blade of mine would have your life for such insult to one who comes to save your brawny, worthless hide. Soften your tone, tall one, for you speak to a mighty wizard, a master of great powers, the chosen one of the great ancient Shianti. He has come to challenge the Wytch-king himself, who is surely the enemy of us all.</quote></p>
- <p>Despite her slight frame and her puny blade, Tanith confronts the <!--ERRTAG-RE-104197-->warrior<!--/ERRTAG-RE-104197--> with an icy countenance that would freeze blood. Though he towers over her like a giant, the warrior steps back, mouth agape in astonishment at her fearless outburst. He is stunned into silence. The barely suppressed mirth of the other Masbaté is plain to see.</p>
- <p><quote>Ho there Dioka!</quote> shouts a squat Masbaté, with a bellowing laugh that makes his pot-belly quiver and shake. <quote>It's a spitting she-cat that's stolen your tongue I see.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And the cat has claws, bladder belly!</quote> she snaps. The plump warrior's face drops, while the one named Dioka bursts into laughter. <quote>Well met, my lady,</quote> he guffaws.</p>
- <p>With a bemused expression, you rise on shaky feet and turn to Dioka. <quote>Greetings, men of the Masbaté,</quote> you call out in a loud voice, ensuring that all can hear. <quote>Plainly we are not agents of evil in mortal guise.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Indeed not,</quote> Dioka replies with a smile. <quote>The very demons of the plain would flee the wrath of your brave companion's acid tongue!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yet, in her anger she spoke the truth,</quote> you continue. <quote>For I am the Wizard, Grey Star, bound upon a quest in the service of the Shianti and sworn to the destruction of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.</quote> The vast hall grows silent. Wide-eyed, the Masbaté regard you with stunned expressions.</p>
- <p><quote>Can this be?</quote> Dioka gasps, a gleam of hope shining in his dark, deep eyes. <quote>We will talk of this at length and in the proper place,</quote> he continues. <quote>You must come with us. It is not wise to remain here. The demons may return and in greater numbers. Most likely they will be led by more formidable masters than this,</quote> he gestures dismissively towards the corpse of the Demon master that sprawls on the floor a few feet away. <quote>The home of the Masbaté now lies in the Kashima Mountains, beyond the River Iss. The king must hear of your return.</quote></p>
- <p>The Masbaté restore the bodies of their ancient dead to their resting places. A funeral pyre for the slain demons is built outside the walls of the tomb, and with considerable effort and over many hours, they are able to repair the stone door. While they work, your wounds are attended to and you and Tanith are given food and water. There is a gifted healer among them and he is able to restore to you 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. (Amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.) It is late afternoon before the Masbaté are ready to leave. Struggling to keep pace with the rapid march of the warriors, you head into the lengthening shadows, toward the distant mountains: the secret lair of the last of a proud and <!--ERRTAG-RE-107112-->mighty<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107112--> race.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you are in a wide, round hall, full of shadows. At one end of the hall is a flaming wall, and kneeling before the wall is the hunched figure of Shasarak, Wytch-king of Shadaki. His back is turned to you but he spins round the instant you arrive. He is a hideous sight. His flesh is black as if burnt by recent fires and his fingers are like claws. Half his face is missing, and in its place there is a metal plate, which is the only thing that gives shape to a livid mass of shrunken flesh and tissue. One eye is shrivelled, sightless and shrunken, the other burns into you with hatred so intense that it almost forces you back a step.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Shasarak's stare burns into you with intense hatred.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="663"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="663"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The room fills with the sound of savage laughter, but it is not Shasarak who laughs. A familiar, slithering, deathly voice emanates from the wall of fire, and within the fire you see two slanted eyes: pools of absolute darkness. It is the <!--ERRTAG-RE-114546-->Demonlord Agarash<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114546-->!</p>
- <p><quote>See, Shasarak. He has come, as I told you he would. He has come to slay you. Won't you accept my bargain?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>NEVER!</quote> Shasarak hisses, his voice like the rush of broken stone scattering on the floor. <quote>He does not have the power to master me&ellips; as you have not, Demon.</quote></p>
- <p>Shasarak glares at you malevolently and raises a damaged hand. He is about to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><!--ERRTAG-RE-115083-->If you have 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and wish<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115083--> to raise the Moonstone against Shasarak, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to defend yourself with the Moonstone, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Though you handle the branches of the plant delicately, you cannot avoid disturbing it and many of the pods squirt jets of purple fluid. Fortunately, many miss you. Two of the jets, however, splash your arm. The acid eats quickly through the fabric of your robe and burns into your flesh. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You have managed to take three <!--ERRTAG-RE-116275-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RE-116275-->. Because they are so small the three pods count as only one item in your Herb Pouch. If there is not room in your Herb Pouch, you may carry the pods in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Cursing your own clumsiness, you pack away your new find, certain that the pods will prove useful, and resume your search for Lake Dolani.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the speed of a pouncing tiger, you twist around to face the three that remain. They are almost upon you, but the speed of your reactions and the fierceness of your gaze paralyses the grotesque creatures. With a mighty cry, you hurl yourself at them in a wild blaze of magical fire and slashing blows. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, your Staff crashes down on the head of the nearest demon. It falls to the ground with a squeal of pain, smoke curling around its purple body that shines like the shell of a giant beetle. It reaches at you with a feeble motion, its crab-like pincer flexing stiffly before it dies. Those that remain flee as fast as their distorted limbs can carry them, wailing in a frenzy of insane fear. You start to pursue, but before you can reach them they have dematerialized. You turn around: the injured toad demon has also disappeared. Panting heavily, you satisfy yourself that Tanith is unharmed before dropping your guard. You fall to your knees, drawing great breaths and leaning heavily on your Staff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Other dots appear high on the horizon. Approaching at an alarming speed are a multitude of strange and sinister <!--ERRTAG-RE-111466-->creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111466-->. You count twenty at least. A familiar sound greets your ears: the babbling frenzy of the demon horde close behind you. There is no time to prepare magical spells, nor is there anywhere to hide, and the forest pass must be at least twenty miles away. You feel sure you can outrun the demon horde&emdash;but the flying creatures? You have only two choices.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to attempt a last, desperate dash for the pass, keeping clear of the flying creatures as best you can, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to make a stand against the flying creatures, in the hope of <!--ERRTAG-RE-112181-->dispatching<!--/ERRTAG-RE-112181--> them before the demon horde reaches you, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to the top of a small rise. Peering over the edge, you see that the ground slopes away in a long, shallow curve, which rises on every side to form a broad basin. At the centre lies a large lake many miles wide. Feverishly you lick your lips in anticipation of a long, languorous drink of cool water. You start to move down the slope when Tanith catches your arm.</p>
- <p><quote>Wait!</quote> she says. <quote>I can see something down there.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow the line of her finger. Among the verdant grassland of the depression that <!--ERRTAG-RE-113025-->surrounds<!--/ERRTAG-RE-113025--> what must be Lake Dolani you can just make out a human form. You edge a few more feet down the slope. With horror you see a large man lying with his arms and legs tied to four wooden stakes driven into the ground. A faint moan drifts on the breeze: he is calling for water. You edge a little closer. The man is almost a giant, measuring at least seven feet tall. His skin is black as ebony and his hair is long and flowing. Suddenly you realize that this is one of the Masbaté, the original inhabitants of the Lissan Plain and a mighty warrior people&emdash;till Shasarak defeated them in the Plains War of MS 5008.</p>
- <p>You have only known one Masbaté: Samu, a noble and fearless warrior, who accompanied you in your search for the Moonstone. Once, he was king of the Masbaté nomads. He thought himself the only survivor of his people&emdash;it was common belief that the Wytch-king had hounded the tribe into extinction, sealing their doom by unleashing a plague of demons. Some say that these demons roam the plains still.</p>
- <p>You wonder who has left the poor, tortured man to die in the sun. You step further down the slope intending to free him, but Tanith holds you back, fearing a trap. You cannot see how anyone, even Shasarak himself, could know that you have returned to the lands of the Shadakine empire after an absence of seven years.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-114669-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114669--> of a Visionary, and wish to use <!--ERRTAG-RE-114759-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114759-->, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you do not possess either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-114926-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114926-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hatred and the fear are too much for your soul to bear. Your mind lacks the strength to withstand the horror of the demon horde. The light of the Moonstone dwindles and, with the fading of its light, the demon horde swarms out of the valley of fear. You are dragged from your steed and delivered as an offering to the unknown power that dwells on the other side of the portal. It drinks your soul with a hideous cackle of triumph.</p>
- <p>You have failed. Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Spellbound, the rider heads towards you. As he draws alongside, you drag him from his saddle. A swift blow to the back of his head renders him unconscious. Quickly you don his uniform. By dressing in the Shadakine uniform you will be able to lead the demon host towards the Shadakine Army without being attacked, for they will think that you are one of their own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim at the nearest of the demons, the smallest of the four. Its back is bent and its arms end in crab-like pincers. Its purple body shines like the shell of a giant beetle. You release a bolt of magical fire that rips through it and hurls it to the ground, squealing with rage and pain, before it lapses into lifeless silence. You have expended 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The remaining three demons step back in alarm, cowering.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to charge at the remaining three, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to fire a long-range attack at another demon, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect47-1-foot" idref="sect47-1"><p>Although the term <quote>Agarashi</quote> is not used anywhere else in the <cite>Grey Star</cite> books, it is used in other books as the collective term for the monstrous servants of Agarash the Damned.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The miles roll by and eventually, the Simar steed adopts a more relaxed pace. You estimate that you are <!--ERRTAG-RE-117359-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-117359--> to the pass. Looking over your shoulder to the west, you see only the broad expanse of the plain and the distant hills of Tilos. Of the demon plague you can see nothing.</p>
- <p>High in the afternoon sky you see two black specks wheeling above you. As you walk, one of them begins to spiral downwards. It is a long, snake-like creature with broad, feathery wings. Its talons are like small, clutching needles and it has a small set of forelimbs. The other creature follows and, to your surprise, you see that it is exactly the same as the first, only smaller. That these are plague demons is certain, but it is the first time you have ever seen two of the same kind. The Flying Snakes make no move towards you; they merely drift on the air currents. Evidently these are not affected by the <!--ERRTAG-RE-118216-->Agarashi's<!--/ERRTAG-RE-118216--><a id="sect47-1" idref="sect47-1-foot" class="footnote" /> inspired state of crazed frenzy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to attack one of the Flying Snakes with your Staff at long range and you have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to ignore them, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Close examination of the well reveals that the rope is rotten and likely to snap if you use the handles to draw up the receptacle attached to it. You decide, therefore, to haul up the rope by hand. You do this, drawing up a large, clay bowl, full of clear water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The potion is mixed under the sun's rays and the light you have summoned from the Moonstone. You must fill one of your <!--ERRTAG-RA-126532-->empty Vials<!--/ERRTAG-RA-126532--> with the fluid that is produced. (Delete one of your <!--ERRTAG-RA-126532-->empty Vials<!--/ERRTAG-RA-126532--> from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) You have now created a Potion of Invulnerability. Mark this as <!--ERRTAG-RE-126335-->an item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. It may<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126335--> be stored in your Backpack <!--ERRTAG-RE-126461-->or in your Herb Pouch<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126461-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57"><link-text>Turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A swirl of colour passes before your eyes. <!--ERRTAG-RE-119885-->Instinctively<!--/ERRTAG-RE-119885--> you reach for Tanith's hand and clasp it tightly. The walls of the circular chamber shimmer in and out of focus: the Shianti are transporting you from the Daziarn plane to the real world. A brilliant flash of light fills the room and you close your eyes involuntarily. When you next open them you look upon a vast plain of grass that undulates like the sea beneath a clear, sunlit sky. The journey is complete.</p>
- <p>The Moonstone is still in your hand. However, where once it shone with the purity of white light, it now glows a smoky grey. You can but guess at the meaning of this transformation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you do not have <!--ERRTAG-RE-120749-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120749-->, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lead the Simar steed slowly to allow him some rest. Stopping and shielding your eyes from the sun, you gaze into the distance. Suddenly something clutches at your feet and tries to drag you down. A small, green-skinned demon like a hairless ape has crawled through the knee-high grass. You have walked into a trap. More ape demons leap out of the grass around you, their eyes blazing with unreasoning hatred and you attempt to fend off the nearest of your foes who, even now, clutches at your legs. You cannot evade this combat. The demon is only three feet tall making it harder to hit him: deduct 1 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ape Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">15</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you win the combat in four or more rounds, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You skirt the edge of the valley, keeping a great distance between yourself and the hell below. You feel the burning heat of countless eyes concentrated on you. At last you reach the other end of the valley. You lift the Moonstone high in the air and point it at the gate. A hiss floats up from the valley. You allow the protective aura to fade and begin to concentrate your mind upon the Moonstone and the closing of the portal. The host creeps towards you. They seem to sense that the power of the Moonstone is now being diverted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in a long-range attack at the demons below with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you do not wish to attack them <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking Tanith by the hand, you stride forward. The demons retreat before you, gibbering with fear and cowering in the Moonstone's light. You come to the top of the stairs that lead into the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30"><link-text>Turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a brave but foolish decision. How could you hope to stand against so many? After a valiant defence, in which many demons are slain, you are killed by the evil horde.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart is pounding as you teleport through the stone door. A sickening feeling is followed by absolute blackness, chill and silent. Then you appear on the other side: you have succeeded. The use of this spell has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Looking up, you see a long, thick rope trailing from an opening in the side of one of the doors. You reach out and pull.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A moving cloud in the sky attracts your attention as you stand panting over the last of the fallen beasts. It is a flock of Winged Demons, and they are heading straight towards you. At your back, the yammering horde draws ever closer.</p>
- <p>You sprint away again, travelling as fast as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the spell is cast and the protection complete, you turn and face Samu. <quote>I am ready,</quote> you say. <quote>Summon your men, we must make ready to leave.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I have a gift for you, Grey Star,</quote> he replies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using <!--ERRTAG-RE-125607-->your Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125607-->, you probe into the near future. You sense that there is danger nearby: the Masbaté is being used as bait for a trap, and the danger lies in venturing into the basin. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-126293-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126293--> of a Visionary, and wish to use it to discover more before you make your choice, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you still wish to go to the aid of the Masbaté, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you prefer to leave the man to suffer, and hide behind the ridge that overlooks the lake, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You maintain your rapid pace and sit up in the saddle. The Flying Snake alters the course of its flight with precision and dives towards you at lightning speed. As it swoops over you, it rakes your shoulder with a sharp talon before climbing back into the sky. Both the snake and the horse were travelling so fast that there was no time to use your Staff in self defence. Your shoulder starts to bleed: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You set a brisk pace for more than an hour but then the burning sun slows you down. Tanith, too, looks very weary. Your throat is parched. <!--ERRTAG-RE-131835-->Neither you nor Tanith has<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131835--> seen a waterhole or anything that could yield nourishment or moisture and there has been no sign of any living creature. You are further disturbed by the sight of a lone figure heading towards you from the south. It is too distant for you to be able to distinguish any details, but it is moving at great speed. You peer into the shimmering heat and try to guess what it is that approaches.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to stand your ground and wait for the figure to arrive, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to advance against it, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to try to evade it, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a dry swallow, you urge the white stallion down the slope and into the valley. You can feel its mighty heart thumping against its ribs, matching the speed of your own. With the Moonstone held high above your head you move through the ranks of the Demon host. Gibbering with fear, they shield their eyes from its pure, white light and back away, stumbling over one another. The sea of deformity parts like a tall swathe of grass to let you pass. Resolutely you stare ahead ignoring the hideous mass of malignancy that surrounds you; nothing must distract your gaze as you focus on the flaming archway that draws nearer with each tentative step of the stallion's hooves. Now, the moment of no return, of death or triumph, has come. You release your necromantic aura of protection and begin anew, focusing your mind on the Moonstone and on the closing of the portal. The demon horde wavers, but only for a moment: they are still spellbound by your presence and intimidated by the Moonstone.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>You look upon a valley of fear crawling with the demon host.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="639"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="639"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Looking up, you see the forest some five hundred paces away. You put on a last desperate spurt in an attempt to reach the safety of the woods. Your body is racked with pain and exhaustion, your lungs feel as if they are on fire and your heart pounds relentlessly. You stumble. You are not sure if you have enough strength to succeed.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add this number to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If the total is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If the total is less than 12, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rope is attached to a large, clay bowl, brim-full of clear water. You secure the handles so that the bowl does not drop to the bottom of the well. The well must stand over the site of an underground spring, for the water is fresh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim once more and send a bolt of magical flame rushing towards the Flying Snake. Once more your aim is true and the creature drops dead with a shrill cry of pain. The attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Staff and unleash a magical beam of fire at the toad demon, using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. It howls with pain and staggers back. Thick, black blood oozes from the wound you have inflicted in its side but it is not slain. It cowers before you, staring with malevolent hatred, pure evil visible in its small, red-veined eyes. With a tormented scream it vanishes and the remaining three advance on you. Suddenly Tanith's warning alerts you to something standing close behind you. You spin round, poised to strike, your staff held firmly in both hands and your body crouched in a combat stance, to see the injured demon leering down at you. It has barely completed its magical materialization when it moves to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28"><link-text>Turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are just about to unleash the power of your Staff when the Flying Snake abruptly changes direction, manoeuvring into a dive. It hurtles towards you at lightning speed, inflicting a raking claw wound on your shoulder as it passes, before climbing into the air. Both the Flying Snake and the horse were travelling so fast that you were unable to retaliate. You have lost 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking the Moonstone in both hands, you gaze into it and concentrate with all your power. The stone is transformed into a whirlpool of spinning colours. Then, abruptly, it clears and you are looking upon Lake Dolani. Nearby lies the Masbaté, still bound and suffering. You struggle to extend the range of the image in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-133240-->stone, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133240--> eventually your efforts are rewarded. A swarm of creatures comes into view. Moving along the base of a line of mountains is a monstrous horde of deformity: the demon plague. Each of the creatures has a different but equally misshapen form: <!--ERRTAG-RE-133533-->weird<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133533--> <!--ERRTAG-RE-133591-->toad beasts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133591-->, their green hides glistening, crawl and flop along the ground; stumbling apes with stunted limbs shamble beside creeping reptiles with human heads. You are sure the demon plague is very near and you sweep the land once more, tracing the line of a river that fills a lake similar to Lake Dolani: this must be Lake Iss. Another group comes into view. It is a band of Masbaté warriors, moving swiftly along the line of the river and most certainly headed towards their fellow warrior and the trap laid by the demon horde. Your concentration begins to ebb. You can no longer maintain control of the Moonstone and you allow the image to fade. The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-134307-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-134307--> has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Taking the Moonstone in both hands you concentrate on it with all your power.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to go to the aid of the captured Masbaté, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you prefer to leave the man to suffer and hide behind the ridge that overlooks the lake, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to head in the direction of Lake Iss and attempt to warn the Masbaté warriors of the trap that awaits them, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The demon clings to the side of the stallion and, with a superhuman effort, you twist round and bring your Staff crashing down on its skull. The creature falls to the plain, spinning over and over again before coming to rest. Your heart lifts as you notice the growing frequency of trees and bushes dotting the land: the forest's edge is rushing towards you. The winged demons above are now unable to fly so low. The demon horde is still far behind. With a <!--ERRTAG-RE-135531-->jubilant<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135531--> yell you enter the sanctuary of the wooded pass through the mountains and, swiftly, you dismount, wincing at the pain caused by your many cuts and bruises. The stallion is also injured and you lead the exhausted animal along the heart of the forest. Looking around furtively you eventually find a hidden clearing where you can rest for a few moments and plan the last stage of your task.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take careful aim and unleash a bolt of destructive power from the tip of your Staff. A beam of <!--ERRTAG-RE-136294-->incandescence<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136294--> banishes the shadows of the evening and spears the demonic creature before you. The force of the blast knocks the creature off its feet and inflicts a terrible wound in its side that oozes with viscous black blood. The attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The other creatures come to an abrupt halt, watching in amazement as the injured demon clambers to its feet. It stands at a distance, cowering and snarling. The other three imitate their leader, panic writhing in their ghastly faces.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to charge them, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to make another long-range attack, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to stand your ground and await their next move, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pure white light of the Moonstone shines forth with a lambent glow. Bathed in the protective aura of the Moonstone, you ride on with speed. The miles are covered swiftly and the snow-white stallion maintains a tireless, unfaltering pace; you bless Samu for such an invaluable gift. At last you reach the River Dolani. The river is close to its source in the mountains and is consequently quite shallow; you are able to ford it easily. After crossing the river, you veer slightly to the north west, towards the hills that lie south east of Lake Tilos, where the portal of the demons of the Lissan Plain is situated. In the distance, you see a small group of figures heading towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to avoid this gathering, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If not, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a last, painful effort you hurtle through the brush and undergrowth at the edge of the forest. Using the cover of the forest you soon leave the horde struggling behind you. Stumbling with fatigue, your robe tattered and torn, your body bleeding from a dozen small wounds, you tramp through the densely packed vegetation. At last you find a hidden glade and you stop to rest for a moment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a wide, scything stroke of your Staff, the demon is slain. Its ruined body crumples to the ground, staining the grass of the plain with thick, black blood. Suddenly a razor-sharp pincer grabs your arm, raking your shoulder to inflict a bloody wound (you lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The other three demons have crept up on you while you fought. Your attacker is the smallest of the three: a grotesque creature with an impossibly bent back and a bulbous purple body, shining like the shell of some gigantic beetle. With a cacophony of triumphal screeches they throw themselves at you. You cannot evade and must fight them to the death. All three fight as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Three Demons of the Plain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cascading arc of fire flows from your Staff to rain death on the valley below. Two demons shriek and are silent; another scurries back and forth screaming as its body burns. Terror spreads through the horde and it advances no further. You have made a wise decision. This demonstration of your power has been sufficient to hold the beasts at bay. Deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for this magical attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the expense of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you throw a beam of fiery magic into the ranks of the demon horde. A ghoulish form with three arms and grey, mottled skin falls dead, followed by a strange, birdlike creature with the body of a worm. You begin to walk down the stairs towards the rest of the horde. Flinching at the Moonstone's light they back away. The power of your incantation is beginning to fade now but you feel sure that the horde is sufficiently frightened to allow you and Tanith to pass. As you reach the bottom of the stairs, you are disturbed to hear their moans of fear change to a gloating croon. They part before you to reveal a giant shadow at the far end of the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are given a horse and ride alongside Samu, who, like the rest of the Masbaté, does not ride. The Masbaté are too big to ride and use their Simar horses only to carry their supplies. Nevertheless, the Masbaté run like the wind and soon the River Dosar is far behind.</p>
- <p>When night comes, you make camp. Tomorrow, your southerly journey will take you to the Army of the Freedom Guild.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horse maintains a steady, tireless pace and the miles pass by swiftly. Soon you reach the River Dolani. The river is very shallow at this point and you are able to ford it easily. Heading north west you sight a line of demons coming towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you possess a potion of Invulnerability, and wish to drink it, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to change direction and increase speed. Shortly your limbs feel weary and your feet begin to drag. The heat of the sun is almost unbearable. You look over your shoulder and, to your amazement, the figure has disappeared. You gaze over the featureless grassy plain: where could he be hidden? You are beginning to suffer from heat exhaustion: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Your present course is taking you far from anywhere you want to go.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to head in the direction of the fortress city of Shadaki, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to head south, towards the lands of the Army of the Freedom Guild, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The demons seem loathe to attack but a large, hulking man-shape with wrinkled, elephantine skin summons up the courage to charge towards you. His sudden attack catches you off-guard and you are unable to evade combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Man Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your dismay, the rope snaps. A distant splash tells you that the receptacle that was attached to the rope has now fallen to the bottom of the well. The rope must have been rotten with age. You will have to find some other method of drawing water. Leading down into the inky depths you see a series of metal rungs cemented into the walls of the well.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-145050-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145050--> of Physiurgy , <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you prefer to climb down into the well, or do not possess either of these Magical Powers, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you grab at the armour, trying to drag it off, but the rigours of your flight from the demon host have left you too fatigued to resist the current of the water. In a few, awful moments you drown in the waters of the River Dosar.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glance down at the Moonstone. Shocked, you see that it contains an absolute blackness. It is lifeless and still and the comfortable presence it once radiated is gone. The Moonstone is reflecting the evil nature of the environment that surrounds it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magical Power of Necromancy, and wish to begin an incantation to ward off evil, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you have the Magical Power of a Visionary, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you prefer not to use any magic, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tanith and Kuna rush to stand at your side. She bares a small dagger but he is unarmed. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-146949-->reptilian<!--/ERRTAG-RE-146949--> demon hurls himself at you with a fearsome scream. You cannot evade combat as this would mean leaving Kuna and Tanith to face the pack alone.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Reptile Demon of the Plains</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you know where the mechanism is you are able to reach out to it with the power of your mind. At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you are able to trigger the mechanism of the great stone doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fearing conflict so early in your journey, you drink the bitter potion of Invulnerability. Soon your body begins to glow with a strange blue light: the protection is complete. Remember that the effects of the potion will fade after a few hours. Remove the Potion of Invulnerability from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, although you may keep the <!--ERRTAG-RE-156348-->empty Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RE-156348-->, which may be stored in your Herb Pouch or in your Backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ponder the choices open to you. While you agree with Tanith that it would be safer to take cover behind the ridge, it pains you to see another human suffer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to go to the Masbaté's aid, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you prefer to leave the man to suffer while you hide behind the ridge that overlooks the lake, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Summoning all your strength, you fight against the fast-moving current of the River Dosar, tugging off the armour. You manage to swim to the other side and drag yourself ashore, panting for breath. A short distance away you can see Samu. Hauling yourself to your feet, you stagger over to him.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star!</quote> he gasps. <quote>You succeeded?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Call your men. We must retreat. Look!</quote> you cry hoarsely, gesturing across the river. <quote>I have brought the demon plague. We must flee while they and the Shadakine fight.</quote></p>
- <p>It is as you say. Across the river the demons do awful battle with the Shadakine. Samu springs into action, blowing upon a horn and sounding the retreat. The Masbaté retire. The Shadakine cannot pursue while the whole demon horde is attacking them. Nevertheless you must destroy the bridge to prevent pursuit should the Shadakine, who number in their thousands, defeat the demon plague too soon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-150455-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-150455--> of Physiurgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-150455-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-150455--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <!--ERRTAG-AD-155987--><choice idref="sect175">If you do not possess any of the above Powers, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice><!--/ERRTAG-AD-155987-->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the seriousness of the gaping wound in its side, the loathsome creature continues to resist you. Suddenly you are thrown forward, hurled to the ground in a flurry of kicks and blows. A razor-sharp pincer bites into your shoulder and you lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The other three demons have pounced on you from behind while you fought.</p>
- <p>Thankfully, you have managed to retain a grip on your Staff. You must fight the four demons to the death. Due to the surprise of the attack and the disadvantage of having to fight your way back to your feet you must subtract 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Four Demons of the Plains</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take careful aim as the snake flies overhead and, at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, release a beam of magical flame. With a piping cry it falls to the ground. The other Flying Snake swerves and heads east, flying high in the sky ahead of you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to fire at the remaining Flying Snake with your Staff at long range, and have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to ignore it, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Tanith at your side, you begin to run with all the speed you can muster. You run along the rim of the rise that overlooks Lake Dolani, hoping to reach the river that fills the lake and effect a crossing there. Chancing a brief look over your shoulder, you see the demon horde in pursuit. Looking ahead once more, you sight a band of tall, black-skinned men in the distance, heading towards you. They are Masbaté warriors, come to save their brother bound by the lake. Panting wildly, you look back to see the demon horde closing the distance between you. Their terrible, inhuman cries are now within range of your hearing and it seems probable that the evil horde will reach you before the Masbaté do.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to stop and turn to attack, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to try to reach the Masbaté before the demons reach you, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spur your horse into a gallop and hurtle towards the demons. Already you can make out the details of their hideous forms: half-men, half-beasts, with evil eyes and glistening fangs. Soon a gap of only a hundred paces stands between you. There are ten of them and they thirst for your blood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to charge the demons, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to avoid the demons, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to attack them at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power of invulnerability is an immense feat, requiring great effort. You concentrate your will upon <!--ERRTAG-RE-154803-->strenghening<!--/ERRTAG-RE-154803--> the fabric of your body, immersing it in <!--ERRTAG-RE-154907-->waves of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-154907-->. Your body begins to glow with an eerie blue light. You stand back and look with disdain on the first of the demons, the toad beast, as it hurls itself at you. Its initial blow has no effect on you. Instead the creature howls in pain and clutches at <!--ERRTAG-RE-155226-->its clawed hand<!--/ERRTAG-RE-155226-->, hurt from the impact of your iron flesh. The remaining demons make similar attempts to harm you, all with the same result. When all their efforts have proved futile they begin to back away, cowering with fear beneath the intensity of your unflinching gaze. Impressive as this power is, it has cost you 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. You raise your Staff, ready to strike at the nearest of the demons, a vile hunched figure with snapping, crab-like pincers and a shiny, purple body like a huge beetle. However before you can strike, all four vanish. They do not return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your whole body glows with the Moonstone's protection.</p>
- <p><quote>Afraid to fight?</quote> Shasarak mocks. He does not attack for the moment. Instead, he reaches into the air and produces his own Wizard's Staff; it is long and black. He weighs it casually in his hand. <quote>Shall we duel now, Grey Star? Or will you stand forever within that damnable light, afraid to fight?</quote></p>
- <p>The voice of Agarash booms from the wall of fire at the end of the hall. <quote>Who is it that is really afraid to fight, Shasarak, tell me that?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Be silent, Demon,</quote> Shasarak commands. <quote>I'll have this young viper yet.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to duel with Shasarak, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to throw some of the Moonstone's power at Shasarak, and have 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point with which to do so, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The toad demon comes snarling and slavering at you, its arms outstretched, long-nailed claws flexing to rake at your flesh. Suddenly it leaps. You step to one side and slam your Staff into its torso, inflicting a dark, oozing wound. It howls in pain and turns clumsily. You lift your Staff to strike the creature once more as it faces you with small, red eyes that stare malevolently. You swing your Staff but you strike nothing. The demon has vanished leaving only the echo of its tormented scream and the stench of its acrid breath. The three remaining demons advance slowly towards you, gibbering with obscene delight. Using the momentum of your swinging stroke at the toad demon, you spin round to face the three hideous creatures in one fluid movement. They falter, then step back in fear, clinging to each other and shrieking. Suddenly Tanith shouts a warning. There is something close behind you. You turn, Staff upraised, muscles tensed, ready to spring at the injured demon that has magically <!--ERRTAG-RE-158247-->materialized<!--/ERRTAG-RE-158247--> behind you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28"><link-text>Turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are completely surrounded. There is no escape. Despite your high degree of skill in combat you cannot hope to win against such overwhelming odds. The demons swarm over you like ants, killing you mercilessly.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With this change of direction, you increase your pace, but the burning heat drags at your every step and soon you are soaked with perspiration. You stop to draw breath; you look over your shoulder to discover that the lone figure is nowhere in sight. Yet there is no tree, rock or bush anywhere to hide behind. You are suffering from heat exhaustion and must lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your current course is taking you away from anywhere you want to be.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to head east, in the direction of the city of Shadaki, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to go south, towards the Army of the Freedom Guild, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your body is numb with exhaustion. You stumble once again&ellips; and fall. With wild gleeful cries, the pack reaches you before you are able to rise. Your last moments are spent regarding the multitude of crazed, hideous faces that crave only your death.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell Tanith that you have decided to help the Masbaté and start down the slope. Reluctantly she follows. You reach the man and begin untying the ropes that bind his wrists and ankles. He mutters his thanks in a faint voice and, with your help, he half-crawls, half-stumbles towards the lake, where he begins to drink thirstily. You and Tanith do the same, quenching your day-old thirst with relish.</p>
- <p>The Masbaté's name is Kuna. He tells you that he was captured while fishing alone on the banks of the Dolani River, by a number of the demons that still roam the Lissan Plain. He has lain bound since that time.</p>
- <p><quote>The hellspawn knew that my Masbaté brothers would come for me and hoped to trap them in the narrow confines of this enclosed region. But tell me, who are you? Why are you here?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p>Before you can reply, Tanith shouts a warning. Her face is horror-stricken. You turn around, barely able to suppress a shocked gasp at what you see. A ring of grisly beasts lines the curving slope before you in a wide <!--ERRTAG-RE-161378-->semicircle<!--/ERRTAG-RE-161378-->. <quote>This is the demon plague,</quote> you whisper.</p>
- <p>The steady croon of hellish voices grows as the evil horde gloats at the utter hopelessness of your position. You are enclosed by a force that numbers almost a hundred. With a terrible cry, a pack of demons rushes towards you. Each of the creatures has a different but equally misshapen form. Some are like strange toad beasts, others are malformed apes with stunted limbs and a shambling gait. The leader of the pack is a large, slimy reptile with a tortured human face. Only moments remain before the pack of demons is upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to fire, with your Wizard's Staff at the leader of the pack in a long-range attack, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to stand and receive the charge, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a fierce cry you charge, eyes flashing, Staff blazing. The demon pack comes to a startled halt, amazed at the audacity of your move. You close the gap between yourself and the pack in moments&ellips; and then the charge hits home.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you have recently drunk a Potion of Invulnerability, or have the protection of Thaumaturgy, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If not, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a relieved sigh, both you and Tanith turn to resume your journey east. Night has almost fallen. In the faint light, you see a glimmer in the distance. It is a river. You break into a run and do not stop until you have reached the banks of its <!--ERRTAG-RE-163353-->fast-flowing<!--/ERRTAG-RE-163353--> waters. Hurriedly, you scoop handfuls of water into your mouth, and do not stop until your parched throat is soothed and your thirst quenched. With a satisfied expression, Tanith sits up on her haunches, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.</p>
- <p><quote>This is the River Dolani,</quote> she says. <quote>It leads south, to fill the great Lake Dolani thirty miles downstream. Upstream, to the north east, is its source in the Kashima Mountains.</quote></p>
- <p>To continue your journey east you will have to cross this river. It is too wide and deep to be waded, and the current is too fast for you to be able to swim across. You ponder your next course of action, lost in thought.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like his comrades, the Masbaté warrior stands well over seven feet tall. Clad in a corselet of worn, padded leather, his body ripples with taut muscle beneath skin as black as ebony. His hair is long and his eyes still burn with the raging fire of battle. He stares at you curiously. <quote>Who are you?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p><quote>Greetings men of the Masbaté,</quote> you reply. <quote>I am Grey Star, Wizard of the Shianti, bound upon a quest in their service, and sworn to the destruction of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Can this be?</quote> the warrior gasps, shaking his head in amazement. <quote>We will talk of this later in a safer place. My name is Dioka, chief of this warrior band. Come with us to the mountain lair of the Masbaté in the Kashima Mountains. The demons may return in greater numbers. The King must hear of your return.</quote></p>
- <p>You agree to his request and soon you are struggling to keep pace with the rapid march of the Masbaté warrior as he heads towards the mountains and the secret lair of the last of a proud and mighty race.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You urge your steed to one last great effort and head straight for the forest. At the forest's edge the plain is dotted with bushes and trees, making it difficult for the Winged Demons to attack and, with a joyful cry, you enter the sheltered sanctuary of the woods. You dismount and lead the stallion along the curving trail that runs through the heart of the forest. Both you and the beast are exhausted and you search for a place to rest. Finding a concealed glade, you stop for a few moments and plan the next course of action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your indecision has granted the demons time to close in and they are now almost at arm's length: you must ready yourself for close combat. The razor-sharp pincer of a hunched creature with the body of a huge beetle rakes at your shoulder: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue at a gentle canter, the afternoon sun beating down on you from a clear sky. Periodically you look over your shoulder but there is still no sign of the demon plague. The Flying Snakes keep pace with you for a while, then abruptly climb high in to the sky and disappear from view, heading east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect104-1-foot" idref="sect104-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are surrounded by hundreds of creatures. They close in with evil expressions on their ruined faces and a giant, wingless bat slashes out at you with its claws. However, you are able to hold your ground unflinchingly, for you feel nothing. Soon a great <!--ERRTAG-RE-167746-->crowd of demons is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-167746--> slashing and gouging at you but still you remain unharmed and slowly you beat a path toward the portal. As you progress, the light of invulnerability that once enfolded you begins to fade and you begin to feel some pain at fresh blows. You field a brilliant defence, however, taking full advantage of being mounted. More and more demons back away in fear of this indestructible warrior who wields a Staff of burning death.</p>
- <p>You use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points<a id="sect104-1" idref="sect104-1-foot" class="footnote" /> and lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point in your fight to reach the portal. Now, at last, it is at hand. There is a lull in the fighting. The demon pack forms a large circle around you and stand contemplating another charge. You pray that they do not, for your magical invulnerability has faded. You must act swiftly. You draw out the Moonstone and focus your energy upon it. The demon horde wavers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely you stride forward, shouting curses and threats at the foul beasts. They shrink back in horror, unable to endure the touch of the Moonstone's light. Suddenly they break into a run. They do not stop until they reach the slope that slants away from the rise, when they turn to shriek and howl at you in one last act of defiance before simply vanishing. You relax your guard and, when you are sure that they will not return, you release the spell of protection from the Moonstone. Its light fades. You notice that now the demons have gone, the Moonstone has returned to the swirling grey state it possessed when you first arrived on the plain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you wheel, giving the line of demons a wide birth. They also change direction but the speed of your Simar steed is great and you are able to avoid them easily. Soon they have become nothing more than blurs on the horizon.</p>
- <p>For a while the journey continues without further interruption, the steady, rolling gait of your Simar mount eating up the miles. Suddenly you hear the flap of leathery wings beating above your head. You look up to see a large, winged reptile bearing rows of razor-edged teeth flying towards you. It gives a terrible scream that echoes all around the open plain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to fire a long-range blast at the creature with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to increase the speed of your Simar steed and head towards the beast to engage it in close combat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking Tanith by the hand you pursue the demons, who offer no resistance. All their efforts are concentrated on keeping outside the range of your Staff, which you use to prod any demons that remain too close, herding them like a flock of sheep. Soon, you reach the top of the stairs that lead directly to the hall. You step on to the first stair and nod to yourself in satisfaction as they part in haste before you, scattering in all directions. A grisly corridor of malformed creatures forms before you, leading to the entrance of the tomb. Then, their timid moans and cries change alarmingly to an undulating rhythm of crowing pleasure and sneering gloats, and you see a winged form silhouetted by the sunlight that streams through the tomb's entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you weave a web of <!--ERRTAG-RE-177379-->Enchantment<!--/ERRTAG-RE-177379--> about yourself, creating the illusion that you are a Shadakine warrior. You stand and reveal yourself to the rider, waving and calling him to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a rapid flurry of strokes from your Staff you deliver a killing blow. The slain demon's fellow attackers are all around, anxious to strike, and in the corner of your eye you glimpse the demon horde sprinting towards you. The attack of these small ape beasts is probably intended only to delay you. You vault into the saddle and the stallion springs away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing before you is a squat, malformed creature. Its features are grotesque and distorted; its back is bent at an impossible angle; its limbs twist like a gnarled tree. The eyes stare out of a knuckled face at odd angles above a raw gash of a mouth that snarls and spits as you approach. The creature crouches low and then leaps at you. You raise your Staff in readiness but the attack does not materialize: the creature has disappeared! The creature is nowhere to be seen. You look at Tanith, a question half-formed on your lips.</p>
- <p><quote>Some creature of Shasarak's,</quote> she states coolly. <quote>Demons rule this land now, though once it was a place of untamed beauty. At his command it has become a realm of fear.</quote></p>
- <p>You wonder if the creature has gone to warn others of its kind, or whether it simply fled in fear. Whatever the answer, one thing is certain: you must keep moving. You still have not located any food or water, and evening is drawing in.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to go east, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to go south, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking careful aim, you release a searing ball of fire and hurl it at the Flying Snake. The demon falls, screaming. The cost of your attack has been 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. An apish beast drifts forward, then dives.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Winged Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts one round only as the demon wings past. If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points loss you incur in this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect112-1-foot" idref="sect112-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you must use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hold the Moonstone above your head as it fills slowly with power and light. A chorus of inhuman moans ripples across the valley and your horse snorts and paws the ground nervously. The rays from the Moonstone play upon the burning archway, and it suddenly bursts into flames. You have used 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point<a id="sect112-1" idref="sect112-1-foot" class="footnote" /> in your attempt to close the portal. Now it seems imbued with a new force: a power strong enough to resist even the might of the Moonstone of the Shianti. Your Simar steed rears and you are almost thrown. The demon horde are paralysed, cowering and whimpering pathetically. Your heart almost stops when a pair of large eyes appears within the flames of the demon portal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding the Moonstone above your head you begin the incantation of protection. You notice that the Moonstone is filled with an absolute blackness: it is reflecting the evil presence of the demons. As the spell takes effect, the Moonstone shines forth anew with a white, radiant light that banishes the shadows of the tomb. The use of this <!--ERRTAG-RE-176416-->Magical Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-176416--> has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. A babble of discontent breaks out from the creatures below. The light of the Moonstone has revealed your position. A scuffle of webbed and clawed feet tells you that the demon horde is rushing up the stairway towards you. The only way down to the hall is by the stairway and the only exit from the tomb is through the entrance to the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you wish to release a long range attack at the demon horde with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to head towards them, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you take careful aim and release a bolt of magical energy at an indistinct figure in the demon line. With an anguished cry it falls to the ground. But still the demons approach relentlessly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to charge, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to try to evade the demons, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you have discovered the location of the triggering mechanism, it cannot be activated without using the <!--ERRTAG-RA-178015-->Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-178015--> of Sorcery or Thaumaturgy. You will, therefore, have to force open the door. It is very strong and the use of force against it may use up many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to summon elemental aid, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you have learnt the <!--ERRTAG-RE-178481-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178481--> of Physiurgy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you do not possess these <!--ERRTAG-RA-178015-->Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RA-178015-->, or wish to take up your journey to Lake Dolani once more, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clamber up the slope once more but as you reach the top you see a horde of demonic creatures heading towards you from the west. Quickly you and Tanith duck down below the ridge. The demons will be upon you soon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to try to flee the approaching horde, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to remain where you are and surprise the horde as it approaches, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking advantage of the demons' confusion, you release another charge of magical flame, sending it arcing towards the toad demon. This action costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Thick, black blood drips from the demon's wound but it is not slain. It gives a low growl before it and the other demons vanish. You breathe a sigh of relief: both you and Tanith are unharmed. You release the spell of protection from the Moonstone and its light fades, returning to its grey, rather than black, state.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your body glows with an eerie blue light, your Staff blazes with a blinding white incandescence and your heart pounds with the fury of battle as the great white stallion carries you into the screaming fray of the demon line. Many clawed hands reach out to rend and tear your flesh but you remain unharmed. Others reach for the stallion's bridle in an attempt to stop the mad galloping rush of its charge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you wish to fight the demons all around you, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to continue your charge and attempt to escape the evil clutches of the demon pack, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing at the top of the stairs, you look down on the mass of monstrous beings. They are stunned by your unexpected attack, and the protective aura of your necromantic spell causes them to cower before you. The light of the Moonstone shines upon them and they attempt to shield their eyes from its bright light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to hold your position and try to intimidate them further, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to release another blast of power at long range with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to charge them, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your call for aid goes unheeded by the element of earth. Either you have made a demand it does not understand or one it cannot fulfil. Whatever the reason, your attempt has failed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>They are moving faster now. Some gurgle obscenely, others growl and roar with crazed expressions. It is a grisly host of horrors: twisted faces with bulging eyes; beasts with long, fleshy tentacles or waving insect feelers. A parasitic insect with a hard, chitinous shell hangs on to the back of a tusked reptilian with tiny suckers, draining the reptile of nourishment but providing it with the armoured protection of its own body. All these and hundreds more seek you out, their courage growing by the moment.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Some gurgle obscenely&emdash;others growl and roar with crazed expressions.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="664"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="664"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to ride to the other end of the valley, using the high ridge above the slopes, and attempt to close the portal without combating the demons, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you wish to charge the demon horde, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to attack the demon horde with a long-range burst from your Staff, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you have already located the door mechanism, it is a simple matter for a Thaumaturgist to exert sufficient magical force to trigger it. With a minimum of effort you set into motion the sequence of pulleys and weights behind the door. The use of this spell has cost you only 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner have you slain the demon than three others of its kind launch themselves at you. As you fight, another of the creatures attempts to slay your horse, while in the distance you glimpse the entire demon horde. Even at this distance you can hear their blood-curdling howls. The stallion neighs and rears to attack his assailants with his hooves. You must fight the three ape demons that beset you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Three Ape Demons</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to evade combat after the first round, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not evade in the first round of combat, you must fight to the death. If you win, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and sink into a trance state. Reaching out to the Elemental plane, you summon the aid of the Water Elementals at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. After a short pause you hear the sound of rushing water at the bottom of the well. Then, suddenly, a whirling column of water rises out of the well, carrying on its tip a large, clay bowl. You reach out and take the bowl: it is brim-full of water. The waterspout subsides.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pain sears your body as the black fire hits you: reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total by half, rounding fractions up to the nearest whole number. All the while the foul laughter of Agarash the Damned fills the hall. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you strike Shasarak's head with a powerful blow. His tortured scream fills the air, and he grabs at your Staff. He will not let go, and a shimmering burst of fire travels from Shasarak's hands up the length of your Staff. Shasarak is using it as a bond between you. He is attempting to pit all his remaining strength against yours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to continue this duel of <!--ERRTAG-RE-186552-->life-forces<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186552-->, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to evade this combat by wrenching your Staff from Shasarak's hand, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath you wait below the crest of the slope. When you consider that sufficient time has passed you spring to your feet, Staff ablaze, ready to strike. Your timing is perfect. The pack is almost upon you but your sudden appearance brings them to a halt. You wonder if you have taken on too much, for you can see that the pack numbers almost a hundred. They are a monstrous gathering of creatures: subhuman malformations and unnatural mixtures of bestial and human features. Before the pack realizes that you are alone, you charge, falling upon the leading demon, a large, slimy reptile with a twisted human face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Reptile Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You change direction and attempt to increase your pace, but the heat is too intense. Soon you are panting for breath and your body is soaked with sweat. After a short time you are forced to stop for rest. You look around but can see no sign of the distant figure. It has disappeared, although there is nothing to hide behind. Your efforts in the fierce sun have cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You wonder if the sun is having as bad an effect on your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thunder into the demon line, riding one of them down in a stampede of dust, blood, and flashing hooves. As you sweep past, another of the demons, a vile, rat-like creature with the body and legs of an ape, grabs at your saddle. It vaults on to the Simar's haunches and clutches at your throat. Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the struggle as the demon is attacking you from behind. You must remain mounted as the Simar Horse gallops across the plain.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rat Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a mighty effort you drag the Staff from his hand before the <!--ERRTAG-RE-189663-->life-force<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189663--> is drained from you. Shasarak drags himself to his feet and begins to run towards the wall of fire.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, come to me,</quote> Agarash whispers. <quote>I will be free.</quote></p>
- <p>Shasarak stops. <quote>No, you will not have me,</quote> he rasps savagely. <quote>I'll take him yet</quote> He reaches up and pulls a long, black Staff from thin air and brandishes it at you. <quote>Come&ellips; we will fight!</quote> He lashes at you with his Staff. You must duel with your <!--ERRTAG-RE-198908-->arch-enemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198908-->.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wytch-king Shasarak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You teleport but as your body begins to rematerialize you are filled with terror. You have reappeared inside a wall beside the doorway. Your body is racked with a brief but severe pain before you die, half-embedded in a solid wall of granite.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without warning you charge while Shasarak crouches in a hunched combat stance.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Shasarak crouches in a hunched combat stance.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="624"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="624"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>It is better this way,</quote> Shasarak snarls, twisting his Staff in his hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wytch-king Shasarak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a mental effort that requires 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you float into the air, hovering above the head of the shrieking demons as they reach out at you with flailing limbs. Although you are now safe from their evil clutches, Tanith remains on the ground. A demon reaches for her, a grotesque creature with a hunched back and the body of a huge, purple beetle. She backs away, nimbly avoiding the clutch of its razor-sharp pincers. While there is still a short distance between them you must strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to fire a long-range attack at the beetle demon with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to release your power of levitation and drop down on the creature from above, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You command the Shadakine warrior to ride towards you; the warrior obeys. The use of this spell has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The portal is near enough for you to be able to attempt to close it. Unfortunately, when you cast the shining power of the Moonstone on to the burning gate you will reveal yourself to the evil host that lurks in the valley below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you wish to remount your Simar steed before making the attempt, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you prefer to make the attempt from your hiding place at the edge of the valley behind the ridge, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are looking into a long, broad hall, dappled with pools of faint orange light. The source of the light is a series of square, slanting shafts high in the tall, vaulted ceiling. At the far end of the hall are two staircases, each leading to the first of many galleries that run along each wall. Archways line the <!--ERRTAG-RE-194076-->balustraded galleries<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194076-->, each one leading into an ominous pool of darkness.</p>
- <p>Your footsteps echo loudly as you walk across the tiled floor covered with the dust of centuries. The air is musty and tainted with the faint aroma of attar. Each stone is draped with cobwebs. You move towards a dais in the centre of the hall. Mounting the steps, you see that it contains a wide, circular opening. A thick, iron bar is suspended across the opening and mounted on each end is a large handle. Attached to the handles and passing through a hole in the middle of the bar is a length of thick rope.</p>
- <p><quote>This must be a well!</quote> exclaims Tanith, excitedly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to turn one of the handles and draw from the well, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to examine the well, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a backwards jerk, you thrust the butt of your Staff into the creature's ribs. It yammers in pain and falls from the horse: it is dead before it hits the ground. Over your shoulder you see the line of demons recede into the distance. They try to pursue you but the fleet-footed stallion runs as fast as a speeding arrow and the demons soon pass from sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Springing to your feet, you hurl a cascading rain of magical fire on to the head of the demonic horde below. Many fall dead and the evil mass is thrown into an uproar of startled shrieks and wails. This magical attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The scuffles of webbed and clawed feet tell you that a <!--ERRTAG-RE-196102-->group of demons is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-196102--> rushing for the stairs that lead up to the galleries. The only way to the hall is by those stairs and you can leave the tomb only by the entrance to the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236"><link-text>Turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your call for aid goes unheeded by the element of water. Either you have made a request that it does not understand or one that it cannot fulfil. Your attempt has failed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect139-1-foot" idref="sect139-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sitting astride the beautiful white stallion, you trot to the edge of the valley overlooking the flaming archway of the portal and draw out the Moonstone. You focus all the power of your will on to the stone and the closing of the portal. A chorus of inhuman moans ripples across the valley. You hold the Moonstone above your head as slowly it fills with power and light. The demons draw nearer and your horse paws the ground and stamps nervously.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the flaming archway ignites. Its fire swirls and writhes with great intensity, spitting gouts of liquid orange flame in all directions. You have used 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point<a id="sect139-1" idref="sect139-1-foot" class="footnote" /> in your attempt to close the portal but now it seems imbued with a new force, a power strong enough to resist even the ancient might of the Moonstone of the Shianti. Your Simar steed rears up on its hind legs and you are almost thrown. <!--ERRTAG-RE-204438-->The horde stops<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204438--> as if paralysed, cowering and gibbering pitifully. Your heart misses a beat as a huge pair of monstrous eyes appears within the flames of the portal.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Your heart misses a beat as a huge pair of monstrous eyes appears within the flames of the portal.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="611"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="611"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night falls over the silent Plain of Lissan and the waters of the river are black and mysterious. Although relieved that your ordeal against the foul demons is over, you are apprehensive at the horrors that a night in this forsaken country might bring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Abruptly you turn to face the oncoming horde of malformed beasts. The leading demon, a <!--ERRTAG-RE-198682-->large reptilian<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198682--> beast with a twisted human face, lets out a chilling scream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you wish to unleash a long-range attack with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you wish to stand and receive the charge, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun is high in the sky: it is past noon. At last a range of hills comes into view: the hills of Tilos. You have suffered no further attacks nor have you sighted any other demons in the last two hours. Where can they be? Samu said they numbered in the high hundreds. Why have they not sought to prevent you from reaching the hills of Tilos, home of the portal that is the sole gateway to their world?</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-199774-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199774--> of a Visionary, and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points using it, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you do not possess either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-200236-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200236-->, lack sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to use them or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim and release a ball of magical fire that rains down on the hellish creature before it can strike. With an anguished wail it falls to the ground, a great smoking wound in its side. The magical attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The demons that remain cringe beneath you now. You raise your Staff and prepare to strike again but, before you can do so, the demons vanish, dematerializing in the space of a heartbeat.</p>
- <p>Gradually you lower yourself to the ground. Unfortunately you release the power too soon and fan to the ground in a tumble of arms and legs. Tanith giggles. You clamber to your feet with a shrug. <quote>Well, it's the first time I've ever levitated,</quote> you say, dusting off your robe and blushing scarlet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man demon falls dead and his body rolls back down the slope and into the pack of demons below. They begin to back away. Your display of power is enough to hold the fearful beasts at bay for the moment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect145-1-foot" idref="sect145-1"><p>Remember to deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point for using the power of the Moonstone against Shasarak.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl a ball of white, glowing power at Shasarak.<a id="sect145-1" idref="sect145-1-foot" class="footnote" /> He flinches and falters. The voice of Agarash cackles. <quote>Beware the bauble the Shianti holds,</quote> it cries between gulps of perverse laughter. <quote>It bites! Fight on little wizards, fight on. Such sport you provide. Who could ask for more?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding the Moonstone aloft you begin an incantation of protection that should discourage any evil creature from attacking. The Moonstone flares and is transformed into a white radiance. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. You continue and make good progress as the shadows lengthen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thunder across the plain at great speed, stopping only to check that the demons are still in pursuit. After an hour of this relentless pace, you estimate that you are <!--ERRTAG-RE-203271-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203271--> to the pass: only forty miles until you reach the cover of the forest. Looking up, you see a <!--ERRTAG-RE-203423-->small black<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203423--> speck, high in the air. As it grows closer, you see that it is a large, winged serpent with broad, feathered wings. It has sharp talons and small, clutching forelimbs.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>It is a large, winged serpent with broad feathered wings.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="629"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="629"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to attack the Flying Snake at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to wait to see what the beast does, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have never attempted teleportation before. Be careful not to teleport yourself into a stone wall or tree. If you do make this mistake your body will not be able to function and you will die instantly. It is safest to teleport to a place you have seen or already visited so that you can visualize it accurately in your mind. In cases like this, where you have not seen the place you are teleporting to, you must try to imagine your arrival point.</p>
- <p>Closing your eyes, you prepare to travel. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the silver charm of Jnana the Wise, add 1 to this number. If you possess the Magic Talisman of the Shianti, add another 1 to this number. You may also add 1 for each of the following Magical Powers that you possess: Sorcery, Prophecy, Psychomancy, Visionary, and Telergy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If your total is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If your total is more than 5 <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The winged reptile is still some way off and the rolling gait of the stallion makes aiming a little difficult. You raise your Staff and release a bolt of power at the beast.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Silver Charm of Jnana the Wise, add 1 to this number. If you have the Magic Talisman of the Shianti, add another 1 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If your total is now 5, or less <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you total is now 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dazzling whirl of deadly strokes from your Staff fells the grisly creature at last. All around you hear the sound of battle as the brave Masbaté challenge the malevolent fury of the demon horde. The warriors are superb fighters and the demon ranks are soon thrown into disarray. Some of the demons dematerialize by magical means. Those that do not are swiftly slain by the fierce Masbaté.</p>
- <p>At last the battle is over: no demons remain alive. To your amazement, the Masbaté have suffered no casualties, though they number only fifty men. Sheathing his long broadsword, one of their number walks towards you. Far off in the distance, you see that the Masbaté man who lay tethered by the lake has been released and a few of his brother warriors are helping him up the slope.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you look around. In the crypt where you and Tanith spent the night there is an alcove within the far wall. It is large enough to hold both of you and its shadows are dark enough to keep you from sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to hide in the alcove, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to search for a hiding place elsewhere in the gallery, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A large Flying Snake hurtles towards you. You hold up your Staff and brace yourself to receive the attack. The beast's razor-sharp talons flex and unflex as it reaches out to grab you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Flying Snake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts for only one round as the demon speeds past. If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing out the Moonstone, you focus all the power of your will on to it and concentrate on the demon portal. A moan ripples through the ranks in the valley below, turning into a chorus of fierce, inhuman cries. Suddenly the portal erupts into an intense blaze of swirling, writhing flame. A large pair of eyes appears in the flames of the portal and a deathly voice speaks. Your Simar steed whinnies in fear, rears up, its hooves flashing in the sun and then bolts, hurtling at high speed away from you. The demon horde sweeps up the side of the shallow valley in their hundreds and attacks. Without your horse, you have no hope of evading them and, after a long, valiant fight in which many demons fall, you are dragged to the ground and slain.</p>
- <p>Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a fierce <!--ERRTAG-RE-209430-->battle-cry<!--/ERRTAG-RE-209430-->, you rush forward and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you deal a <!--ERRTAG-RE-209585-->death-blow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-209585--> to the nearest demon, a hairless, ape-like creature with a tough red hide. An uproar of shrieks and wails breaks out among the ranks of the beasts, and they rush away from you in fear. Some vanish into thin air, giving a hint of their dark, magical natures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107"><link-text>Turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you twist away from your attackers and vault into the saddle in one fluid movement. The stallion springs into action and the gap soon widens between you and the demon horde.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Tanith climb over the debris of shattered rock and enter the ziggurat. Anxiously you peer through the dust that is still settling around you and into the shadows beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you create a glow of light from your Staff. To your left you see a huge number of Shadakine swordsmen locked in combat with a smaller group of Guildsmen. The Shadakine are relentlessly forcing the Guildsmen back into the forest. Suddenly a hail of Shadakine arrows arcs towards you falling just short of where you stand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you wish to extinguish your light, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect357">If not, <link-text>turn to 357</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer into the wild fire at the slanted, inhuman eyes. They are closed; their penumbral grey lids a vague, tinted outline. Slowly, lazily, as if awakening from a deep sleep, they open revealing two great pools of impenetrable darkness; vast, eddying whorls of eternal shadow. The eyes beckon with a hypnotic stare, a cloaked welcome to hell's darkest and most desolate chamber.</p>
- <p><quote>Who dares?</quote> demands a slithering, deathly voice. <quote>Who dares to knock upon the door to the Pit of Eternal Pain?</quote></p>
- <p>You stagger back as a blast of colossal psychic power, a will of great violence and malice makes your head reel and your thoughts tumble. A burning beam of thought is thrust painfully into your mind, searching, probing, searing.</p>
- <p><quote>Who?&ellips; Who?&ellips;</quote> hisses the disembodied voice. The desolate eyes are tinged with red. Savage laughter rings in your ears. <quote>Can this be?</quote> the voice crows, scornfully. <quote>Oh! but this is the sweetest, the richest, of ironies. It is the Shianti slave, is it not? Upon the errand of fools, treading the path of the foolish? And that worthless bauble of theirs, you have found it? Yes, I see that you have</quote></p>
- <p>As the voice mocks, its power over you lessens. You know that you must resist now before you are enslaved forever.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, and wish to use them to resist the mastery of the being in the portal, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you do not have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Walking up to the huge doors, you lay your hands upon them and probe them with your mind. You have a vision of two brawny men pulling a thick rope attached to a metal weight in a chamber on the right of the archway. This must be how the door was opened. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery, and wish to use it to trigger the mechanism, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you have learnt the <!--ERRTAG-RE-214104-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-214104--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you do not have either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-214305-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-214305-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Tanith at your side, you stand and wait for the demon charge. It is a brave but foolish decision. The demons number almost a hundred and you cannot hope to stand against them. After a valiant defence, in which many demons are slain, you fall.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Owing to the speed at which you are galloping and the creature is diving, you will have enough time for only one round of combat. If you have recently drunk a Potion of Invulnerability or have the protection of invulnerability through the previous casting of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-215280-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-215280--> of Thaumaturgy, ignore all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Winged Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">31</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you kill the creature in one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you and the winged demon are still alive after one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, your <!--ERRTAG-RE-216064-->Power of Prophecy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216064--> reveals that you are standing in the middle of intense evil. Danger is close at hand. You tell Tanith what you have learned. She nods as if this confirms what she already feared.</p>
- <p><quote>We stand upon the Lissan Plain,</quote> she says gloomily. <quote>Once a beautiful country, now inhabited by demons in the service of Shasarak.</quote> With a shudder, you gaze upon your new surroundings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a wild flurry of blows you triumph at last, only to be confronted with many more slavering beasts thirsting for your blood. The entire horde throws itself against you. You seem doomed to fail when Tanith's cry alerts you to a movement beyond the ridge overlooking the basin.</p>
- <p><quote>My brothers they come,</quote> shouts Kuna. <quote>We are saved.</quote></p>
- <p>Cresting the rise is along line of tall, black-skinned warriors: men of the Masbaté. They send up a loud cry before releasing a volley of javelins into the rear ranks of the demon horde, killing many. The demons are thrown into disarray. Their anguished screams echo throughout the basin as the Masbaté charge down the slope with their swords drawn. The two forces collide and a short but bloody battle ensues. Many of the demons vanish magically. Those that remain are mercilessly slain. When the battle is over, a Masbaté warrior sheathes his sword and walks towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power required to lift so many into the air is considerable and you have never attempted this spell before. Concentrating all your energy and thought, you will the loathsome creatures to rise. With startled shrieks they drift up, gibbering and thrashing their limbs uselessly. Beads of perspiration form on your forehead; your temples throb. The demons drift fifty feet into the air before your concentration breaks and you release your hold on them. They drop like stones, hitting the ground with a sickening thud, and dying instantly. Your shoulders sag; you feel physically and mentally drained. Owing to the large effort involved, you must lose 6 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw out the Gem, filling it with mental energy drawn from the Astral plane. If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery, you use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points; if you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-219129-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-219129--> of Thaumaturgy, you use 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The Mind Gem gives off a red glow. You use its power to reach out to the Shadakine rider and will him to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Tanith squeeze into the alcove and keep very still. The scratch and scuffle of clawed feet tells you that the demon horde is ascending the stairs in the hall below. Soon you hear the sound of movement nearby. Peering out of the shadows you see a hunched, three-legged creature enter the chamber. A single yellow eye looks out from the centre of a broad, furrowed forehead, crested with many long feelers like antennae. The demon emits a moan of displeasure on finding the chamber empty and turns to leave. You give a quiet sigh of relief and suddenly the demon halts and begins to sniff the air, head cocked to one side with a quizzical gesture. Then it sees you and, with a feral scream, stumbles forward, its clawed hands outstretched. You cannot evade this combat and step forward into the light.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you shake off the power that held you and push it from your mind.</p>
- <p><quote>You cannot resist, Shianti slave,</quote> the voice spits. <quote>You know not who you defy. Know you that I am Agarash the Damned, <!--ERRTAG-RA-230977-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RA-230977--> of Darkness. You cannot stand against me. Come, come to me. Take my place here in the Pit of Eternal Pain and I shall be freed.</quote></p>
- <p>You feel the force of Agarash's will once again. It is a strength mightier than any you have ever known. You fight with a <!--ERRTAG-RA-230977-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RA-230977-->, a servant of Naar, King of the Darkness, a force of ultimate evil. Legend tells that Agarash was once a ruler in the world of Magnamund, till he was defeated by a magical race called the Elder Magi and banished to another plane, doomed to remain there for all eternity. Agarash seeks to draw you towards the portal of fire that is the doorway to his prison.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to duel with the will of Agarash, and have 5 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to try to close the portal of fire using the Moonstone, and have 5 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you do not have 5 or more <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You triumph at last but, to your horror, you see the remaining ape demons slay your Simar steed and begin to feast on its flesh. Many miles lie between you and the pass. Those miles consist of flat, rolling grassland totally devoid of cover. The demon horde draws closer, almost snapping at your heels. There is no time to stop and prepare some magic to help you. You have no choice: you turn and run with all the speed you can muster.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210"><link-text>Turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and concentrate. At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you reach out with the power of your mind. You sense a dark evil: attack is imminent. You are able to ascertain that the attack will be attempted by many and that your potential assailants are not human, but possess an alien intelligence. Everything about them indicates a malevolent power, and it is likely that they have a limited knowledge of magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to continue in the direction you are heading, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to head towards the source of evil in exactly the opposite direction, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Looking up through a gap in the trees, you see a number of Winged Demons circling. They must be searching for you. Reluctantly you move on again, following the trail until you reach the far side of the forest. You hear the snapping of dead branches and the rustling of leaves: <!--ERRTAG-RE-224239-->the demon horde is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-224239--> somewhere in the forest, searching for you. Your mind races as the growling and howling of the pack draws closer. It is vital that you find some way of drawing the pack on, towards the Shadakine Army that is moving towards Lanzi and the Masbaté who guard the bridge there. You estimate that the army must be <!--ERRTAG-RE-224609-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-224609--> there by now, probably following the line of the River Dosar to protect its left flank. If you are seen at the head of the demon horde, you are sure to be attacked by the Shadakine.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you sight a figure on horseback. It is a Shadakine warrior scouting the land. He must be an <!--ERRTAG-RE-224962-->outrider<!--/ERRTAG-RE-224962--> from the Shadakine Army. A plan begins to form in your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you have a Mind Gem, and the <!--ERRTAG-RE-225153-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225153--> or Thaumaturgy, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-225331-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225331--> of Telergy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have the Magical Power of Enchantment, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you prefer to stand and reveal yourself to the warrior, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A lethal beam of force streaks towards the beast but, unfortunately, it is just off-target, exploding into a cloud of orange flame in the sky. The use of this magical attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The creature is now upon you, its great claws outstretched towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The miles pass by slowly. Though the Lissan Plain is monotonously flat and should be <!--ERRTAG-RE-226492-->relatively<!--/ERRTAG-RE-226492--> easy to cross, the fierce heat of the afternoon sun drains your strength. Tanith looks very tired. You decide to rest and you both stop beneath the shade of a large, solitary tree. As Tanith wipes sweat from her brow she turns and gives you a searching look. <quote>Have you noticed?</quote> she says.</p>
- <p>You have no idea what she means and tell her so. <quote>There are no birds, no beasts, no wild creatures of any kind,</quote> she replies.</p>
- <p>Her observation explains the strange stillness of the plain and adds to the sense of evil that pervades it. Suddenly Tanith jumps to her feet. <quote>Look!</quote> <!--ERRTAG-RE-227199-->she cries. <quote>Something<!--/ERRTAG-RE-227199--> is moving out there.</quote></p>
- <p>You look in the same direction. In the distance you can see a small figure moving at speed, though it is too far away for you to be able to distinguish any details. The figure is moving south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you wish to investigate, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You loose a bolt of energy that spirals towards the rider. Unfortunately the rigours of your escape have left you fatigued and your concentration is not good. The attack goes wide and the horseman is unharmed. Your ill-aimed attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. He is almost upon you now and you brace yourself to receive the charge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you hurl a splash of lethal magical flame at the heads of the leading demons. With agonized shrieks, three of them fall to the ground. The horde falters on the stairs in an uproar of startled howls and screams. Before they can gather their wits, you rush along the gallery and down the stairway to confront the pack where they stand in confusion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119"><link-text>Turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Staff and fire at the bridge. The cost of this attack is 9 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If you do not have 9 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points then you must use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you <!--ERRTAG-RE-239444-->lack (i.e. 2<!--/ERRTAG-RE-239444--> <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you are still alive after this attack, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are weak and tired and lack the mental strength to resist the incalculable might of a <!--ERRTAG-RE-239950-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-239950-->. Effortlessly Agarash takes hold of your mind, possessing you utterly. He summons you towards the portal and, like a puppet, you obey. While Agarash looks on, laughing maniacally, you pass through the gate of doom, the doorway to damnation, to a realm of nameless and eternal horror.</p>
- <p>Your quest has failed; your adventure is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up the Moonstone and, focusing your power, gaze into it. The impenetrable blackness that formerly filled the stone disperses and a light kindles there. Soon the stone is filled with spinning colour. The spinning stops and you are looking at the Lissan Plain. Four creatures come swiftly into view. Each creature is horribly misshapen: the leading creature is a large, toad-like being with glistening green skin and a long tail. All four lope, hop and shamble along as their ghastly forms allow. There is a menacing purpose to their walk and you are sure that you are their prey. The use of this vision has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magical Power of Necromancy, and wish to use it to chant an incantation against evil, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to continue moving and perhaps escape your pursuers, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to head towards your pursuers, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A lethal blow from your Staff strikes the demon's bony skull. It crumples and drops to land in a cloud of dust. The beast is dead. The pace of your Simar steed does not falter as you continue across the plain towards the demon portal in the hills of Tilos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unleash a beam of magical fire that hurls one of the creatures to the ground in a blaze of smoke and flame. This attack costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. A commotion of shrieks and wails breaks out and the evil beasts rush away from you in fear. Some vanish into thin air, intimating the dark magic of their nature.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53"><link-text>Turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring down the Staff to deliver a <!--ERRTAG-RE-232774-->death-blow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-232774--> but, as you do, Agarash shouts out. <quote>No! This shall not be.</quote></p>
- <p>You feel a wave of power emanate from the wall of fire and your Staff grows warm in your hands. Both your Staff and Shasarak's explode into flame, to fall in ashes on the floor. Shasarak begins to crawl on his hands and knees towards the fiery wall, muttering in choked breaths. <quote>You shall not have me. You shall not have me.</quote></p>
- <p>He stands and reaches out his hands. <quote>Agarash, our bargain!</quote> he screams. Agarash laughs once more. A plume of flame snakes out from the wall and wreathes itself around Shasarak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you wish to allow Shasarak to step through the flaming wall, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you have 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and wish to fill the Moonstone with your power and hurl it against the wall, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The <!--ERRTAG-RE-233977-->Power of Physiurgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-233977--> gives you the ability to manipulate most of the prime elements of matter, though you can never create them yourself. After a brief pause while you gather your powers of concentration, you focus on the stone door, twisting the natural shape of the stone and tugging at the atoms and molecules of which it is made. A series of cracks and fractures appears and soon it collapses in pieces at your feet. The use of this <!--ERRTAG-RE-234454-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-234454--> has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you throw a well-aimed beam of force at the Winged Demon. Your uncanny accuracy inflicts a fatal wound in the creature's head and it plummets from the sky. The pace of your Simar steed does not falter as you continue across the plain towards the demon portal in the hills of Tilos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A final blow fells the creature. As it falls lifeless to the ground, three reptilian beasts appear in the doorway. Many more creatures crowd behind them in the corridor outside. The only possible escape from the Masbaté tomb is through the entrance to the hall five floors below. Somehow you must fight your way down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to attack the demons standing in the doorway with a long-range shot from your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you wish to charge the demons, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Winged Demon arcs and wheels, spiralling up into the air and preparing for another attack. It has suffered a large, weeping wound from your last attack and its flight path is erratic and slow. It gives a wailing, defiant screech and dives at you once more. If you have recently drunk a Potion of Invulnerability or are protected by the earlier casting of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-236491-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-236491--> of Thaumaturgy, ignore all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself during the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Winged Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">12</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you kill the creature, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you and the Winged Demon are still alive after one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer down into the darkness of the well, and, at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you summon up a tall, swirling waterspout. On the tip of the waterspout is a large, clay bowl. Tanith reaches out and takes the bowl and you allow the waterspout to subside with a great splash.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unsuspecting, the warrior rides towards you. He wears a plumed helmet of black metal and you know that underneath the helm his head is shaven, except for a long, plaited pig-tail. Like all Shadakine, his most notable feature is his eyes, which are completely white, without iris or pupil. He is clad in the furs and steel of the Shadakine and carries a spear. A crossbow is slung over his back.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Unsuspecting the Shadakine warrior rides towards you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="683"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="683"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you still have your Simar stallion, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If it has been killed, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart pounding, you wait as the gibbering, snarling creatures approach. As they draw closer, they move more slowly until finally they lapse into a cowering, nervous creep. Your stand obviously intimidates them, for although you are gripped with fear, you display a confident menace. Suddenly they fall upon you in a wild, slavering flurry of kicks, blows and bites.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Demon Master is weakening. Suddenly, in a desperate bid to escape the dazzling blur of magical flame that wreathes its body, it spreads its wings, and attempts to fly out of range. In that instant you swing a tremendous blow at the monster's heart. With a terrible roar, it convulses in mid-air, arms flung out and clawed fists clenched with pain. It drops like a rock. Before you are able to dodge aside, the creature's body falls directly on top of you, hurling you to the ground with terrific force. You lose hold of your Wizard's Staff and it clatters on the stone floor, just out of reach. You try to drag yourself from under the dead weight of the Demon Master but, dazed and confused by the fall, you are unable to scramble free.</p>
- <p>Tanith rushes forward to grab your Staff. As she does, the demon minions that surround you let out a pealing cry of crazed glee and surge forward. Tanith manages to pick up the Staff before being forced to back away. She holds her dagger before her in readiness but against so many she cannot hope to prevail. Slowly she edges towards you. The Staff is tantalizingly out of reach. Tanith dares not turn her back on the advancing horde to give it to you. The position looks hopeless. Then, amid the whirl of your thoughts, you hear the cries of human voices and the clash of steel. You turn to look in the direction of the sound. Pouring through the entrance of the tomb comes a mass of tall warriors, swords bared, reaping a deadly harvest amongst the demonic ranks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Raising your Staff, you unleash a beam of fire that tears into one of the creatures. It screams horribly as it falls dead in the doorway. The remaining creatures give vent to pealing cries of fear and begin to edge backwards, their twisted features writhing. This attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219"><link-text>Turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw the light of the Moonstone against Shasarak. He recoils in pain, then straightens, producing a long, black Staff from thin air. With a hideous scream he charges at you, his Staff whirling, rage contorting his already twisted features.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to exert 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to continue the protection of the Moonstone, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to meet Shasarak's attack with your own Staff, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a whirl of colour, you find yourself in a long, grey hall. You guess that you are close to Shasarak for at the far end of the hall you see a door engraved with a large Shianti rune representing Shasarak's name. Guarding that door is a grotesque creature, a servant of Shasarak. It is a demon, summoned from some ghastly netherworld that only the dark sorceries of Shasarak could reach. The demon has a high, humped back and a square, flat face that bears two blank, emotionless eyes; colourless and entirely lacking in any warmth or feeling; like pebbles by an unknown sea.</p>
- <p><quote>Hail, enemy of my master,</quote> it breathes, <quote>I have waited for you. My master told me you would come.</quote></p>
- <p>You step closer. With some concern you see that the demon has affected the shape of a man, with blonde, gilded hair. You tell yourself that this is no man, but a demon in human guise. The demon stands tall; it mocks. <quote>Why have you delayed? What are your reasons? I have waited so long&ellips; so long to meet your challenge. I am powerful, I am mighty! Know you, that I am the Ipagé, greatest of all demons under my master's command. My power is that of hate, <!--ERRTAG-RE-243331-->for indeed I hate you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-243331-->, free and unstained as you are, unheeding of the powers that I and my master hold most dear.</quote></p>
- <p>The creature's tirade of scorn is unrelenting and, to you, quite meaningless. It does not hate you, but what you represent; the wild, free, unrestrained wisdom of the Shianti. Shasarak has taught it that this wisdom is meaningless. You know that this is a wisdom, not born of knowledge, but of the freedom of the spirit, of the soul to follow its own way, sure that a mind without hate or resentment can do no harm. The Ipagé hisses like a serpent as you approach. You notice that its body is transparent and shimmers with an eerie light. The door to Shasarak's chamber lies directly behind this evil guardian. So far it has made no attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to attack this creature of hell, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to ignore it and head straight for Shasarak's door <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle desperately, but you fight a creature with the power of a god: you cannot hope to master it. Your will snaps and Agarash draws you towards the portal. You move like an automaton, a mindless zombie. To the sound of Agarash's cackling laughter, you step through the portal into eternal doom and damnation, a realm of nameless horrors.</p>
- <p>You have failed, your quest is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect193-1-foot" idref="sect193-1"><p>If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rain a torrent of blows on to the heads of your attackers at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points<a id="sect193-1" idref="sect193-1-foot" class="footnote" /> and a wide space around you is soon filled with the dead bodies of your assailants. Before the survivors are able to close once again, you dig your heels into the stallion's flanks and it starts away like an arrow from a bow. The demons try to pursue but the fleet-footed Simar steed is too fast for them and they soon disappear from view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and send the power of your thought into the stone. Eventually you locate a system of weighted pulleys on the left-hand side of the doors. Now that you know where the mechanism is, you will be able to use another of your Magical Powers to open the doors. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you have the Magical Power of Sorcery, and wish to use it to trigger the mechanism, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you have learnt the <!--ERRTAG-RE-246384-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246384--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you do not possess either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-246588-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246588-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and concentrate your mind on the far bank of the river where you can see King Samu urging his brave soldiers on. At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you teleport, experiencing the sickening feeling that always accompanies teleportation. You appear on the other side of the river and at Samu's side. He looks round and sees you.</p>
- <p><quote>By the Gods!</quote> he shouts, raising his sword to strike you.</p>
- <p>You remember that you are still wearing the Shadakine uniform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to pull off the Shadakine helm and show Samu who you are, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to raise your Staff to defend yourself from Samu's blow, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the <!--ERRTAG-RE-247855-->Power of Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-247855-->, you will be able to create a wall of energy that will act as a barrier or forcefield. However, the shield will only be as strong as the amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> you put into it and it cannot be moved like a conventional shield. Remember, if you wish to use your Wizard's Staff, you will have to drop the shield.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to use 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to create the shield, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to use 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you decide not to use the Magical Power of Sorcery for protection after all, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hovering Spiderfly drops from the air as your final, fatal blow slips past the eight-legged screen of the creature's defence. But there is no time to celebrate your victory. A large number of the horde have reached the top of the valley and are now only a few hundred paces further along the ridge. You have very little time in which to attempt to close the portal before the demons, who number more than twenty, reach you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon your mental energy and focus it on the half-running, half-hopping leading demon. There is no time for hesitation: you throw your thought at the creature. With a startled yell, it floats into the air, limbs waving uselessly. Stunned, the demons that follow come to an abrupt halt, gibbering insanely and pointing at their hideous companion as he drifts above their heads. With an easy motion, you fling him down. He lands with a sickening thud on top of his fellows, sending them sprawling to the ground.</p>
- <p>They scramble to their feet, cowering and backing away in fear. You step forward with a threatening gesture, but they do not wait to see your next move. Faster than an eyeblink, they vanish into thin air. You are safe. The use of this Magical Power has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With split-second timing you dodge aside, avoiding the oncoming chariot. It thunders past, then turns into a skid and crashes. The men inside are thrown screaming into the air. With a grim smile of satisfaction, you return to the army camp. There you see that the Guildsmen, while ready to leave, hesitate before the forest. Sado shrugs with resignation. <quote>They are afraid to tread within the eaves of the forest,</quote> he says.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes without incident but you are wakened at dawn by the sounds of scratching and scrabbling from below. The sinister murmuring of distant voices echoes ominously throughout the vast hall and the hair on the back of your neck prickles with fear at the sound of a low, bestial moan, alien and chilling. Tanith wakes with a nervous start. Sensibly she says nothing, but her dagger is in her hands in a moment, her eyes flashing dangerously, her body taut. Slowly you edge out of the chamber and peer through the supporting columns of the balcony. In the golden glow of the dawn light that creeps through the shafts of the roof, you are confronted by a nightmarish vision.</p>
- <p>The floor of the ziggurat is a heaving carpet of horror. A swarm of hideous creatures lurks there, gibbering insanely. Each wears a different and equally misshapen guise: toad beasts, their green hides glistening, crawl beside stunted anthropoids with matted fur and scabby flesh; creeping reptiles with human heads vie with many-limbed crustaceans; lurching serpents slither upon the backs of hulking beetles. Never before have you seen such a ghastly horde of evil deformity.</p>
- <p><quote>The demon plague,</quote> hisses Tanith, horrified. <quote>Such was the evil that defeated the brave Masbaté. Who could stand against such fearful monstrosity?</quote></p>
- <p>The shuffling <!--ERRTAG-RE-252622-->column reaches<!--/ERRTAG-RE-252622--> the foot of the stairs. With every passing moment more are entering the ziggurat through the gateway that you yourself opened but could not close. Now it is you that must attempt to stand against the demon plague. Five floors below, a terrifying doom approaches. The demons advance, slowly, cautiously, unsure of their new environment. Certainly, they are unaware of your presence in the highest gallery of the ancient Masbaté tomb. You have little time in which to plan an escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-253234-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253234--> of Necromancy, and wish to use it to begin an incantation to ward off evil, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to attack the demonic horde with your Staff at long range, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you prefer to try to hide, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A faint splash startles you into awareness. In the darkness you can make out the dim outline of a boat heading towards you. <quote>Hail the shore,</quote> a voice whispers out of the darkness.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description><quote>Hail the Shore!</quote> a voice whispers out of the darkness.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="641"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="641"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You stand, Staff held aloft, ready for combat. <quote>Who calls?</quote> you call into the darkness. There is no answer but soon you are able to discern a tall figure, standing upright in a large, wooden rowing boat. He draws closer and, to your amazement, you find yourself looking upon a giant of a man, perhaps seven or more feet tall with long, flowing hair and skin as black as ebony. You realize that this man is a Masbaté warrior, member of the tribe believed by all to be extinct.</p>
- <p><quote>I witnessed your struggle with the demons from the <!--ERRTAG-RE-265382-->shore,</quote> he<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265382--> says. <quote>Come, more are sure to return soon, and in greater numbers. You must come with me. You are not safe on this side of the river.</quote></p>
- <p>You and Tanith clamber aboard the boat and, with strong strokes, the warrior rows you to the other side of the river. There, a great <!--ERRTAG-RE-254918-->host of Masbaté warriors waits<!--/ERRTAG-RE-254918-->. You can hardly believe your good fortune at this timely rescue or that members of the great Masbaté people still exist. You have only ever known one Masbaté: Samu, a noble and fearless warrior, who accompanied you on your search for the Moonstone. Once he was king of the Masbaté nomads but he thought himself the only survivor of his people. Everyone believed that the Wytch-king, Shasarak, hounded them into extinction, sealing their doom with the unleashing of the demon plague.</p>
- <p><quote>I am Dioka,</quote> says the man who has rowed you ashore. <quote>I am leader of the warrior band that patrols the banks of the river in the defence of the Masbaté. Who are you?</quote></p>
- <p>You regard the Masbaté host with a joyful expression. <quote>Greetings, men of the Masbaté,</quote> you call, ensuring that all can hear. <quote>I am the Wizard, Grey Star, bound upon a quest in the service of the Shianti and sworn to the destruction of the Wytch-king, Shasarak.</quote></p>
- <p>Wide-eyed, the Masbaté regard you with stunned expressions. <quote>Can this be?</quote> Dioka gasps, shaking his head in disbelief. <quote>If this is true, then you must tell the king. Will you accompany us to the Kashima Mountains, where we of the Masbaté now dwell?</quote></p>
- <p>You nod your agreement. <quote>Then come.</quote></p>
- <p>Soon you are struggling to keep pace with the <!--ERRTAG-RE-256449-->fleet-footed warriors<!--/ERRTAG-RE-256449-->, heading through the dark shadows of night towards the mountains: the secret lair of the last of a proud and mighty race.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a silent prayer, you break into a swift gallop: somehow the Simar stallion senses the need for speed. The flying horrors ahead spread out into a diagonal line. The first of the line, a Flying Snake, begins its dive towards you. You swerve to one side at the latest possible moment, forcing the creature to bank and turn <!--ERRTAG-RE-257171-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-257171--> into its dive. Claws and talons outstretched, the Winged Demon swoops towards you once more. You cannot evade combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Flying Snake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts for only one round as the creature flashes past. If the Flying Snake loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Magical Power of Thaumaturgy grants you many powers but many of the magical feats you are able to perform are costly in <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>. You must decide the best way of using <!--ERRTAG-RE-258184-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258184-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to make yourself invulnerable to physical attack, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to levitate, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to cause <em>all</em> the demons to levitate, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you wish to cause one of the demons to levitate, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you release a blast of energy at the first few ranks of the demon host. You slay three, but the demons number in their hundreds and a loss of three does not delay or deter them. Together they give vent to a ferocious scream that echoes all around the valley as they charge towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you have recently drunk a Potion of Invulnerability, or have the protection of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-259357-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259357--> of Thaumaturgy, and you wish to stand and receive the charge of the demons, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you do not have this protection, and wish to stand and receive the charge of over four hundred crazed beasts thirsting for your blood, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to escape attack, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you throw a bolt of magical flame at the nearest of the hideous creatures, a hairless ape with a tough red hide. It stumbles with a squeal of pain and drops its gruesome burden. A discontented murmur spreads through the demons' ranks and suddenly they begin to run in the opposite direction, heading for the stairs that lead to the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107"><link-text>Turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Though mortally wounded, the winged ape holds on grimly. Then, suddenly, it hurls itself away, still holding the stallion's harness. The horse's head is twisted violently to one side and the noble animal loses its balance, tumbling to the ground. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without slowing your steed's thundering gallop for an instant, you ride down a wailing, two-headed beast with mottled skin and rubbery feelers. Other beasts scatter in a cloud of dust, blood and flashing hooves. You sweep past the demons in a matter of moments. They attempt to pursue you but your fleet-footed Simar steed is too fast for them. Eventually the demons slip out of sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a gasp you cease your attack: you are nearly unconscious with the strain. Staggering slightly, you look up to see the doors still standing. Your attempt has failed. A few minutes pass before you feel steady on your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you have the <!--ERRTAG-RE-272932-->Higher Magick of Thaumaturgy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272932-->, and wish to use it to open the doors, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to summon an elemental to open the doors for you, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you have learnt the <!--ERRTAG-RE-262423-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-262423--> of Physiurgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you do not possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-262615-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-262615-->, or wish to return to your earlier journey towards Lake Dolani, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your body trembling with the effort of concentration, you hurl power into the Moonstone and direct it towards the portal. The portal burns with white-hot intensity and the eyes of Agarash burn deep into your heart. For, while you concentrate your power on the portal, you are undefended from Agarash's attempts to master you. The stallion rears and turns in absolute terror and your head screams insanely, but you never waver from your attempt upon the portal. The malice of Agarash fills your body and tears at your soul, yet still you hold the glowing gem aloft, clinging to it with fierce resolve. There is a mighty explosion and Agarash's frustrated scream echoes for miles around. The portal has been destroyed and Agarash can no longer reach you: you have escaped damnation at his hands. You have exerted 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Even as the portal is destroyed, Agarash's last words thunder around the valley. <quote>Minions of Agarash, slaves of the scarlet fires&emdash;destroy! Destroy and avenge me!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first you make good speed but you are heavily laden and your Staff and Backpack hamper movement. The snarling and screeching behind tell you that the demon host is beginning to gain on you. You chance a look over your shoulder and see that some of the faster-moving demons are separating from the main group and are very close. Three reptilian beasts with clashing fangs are soon snapping at your heels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to turn and fight these three, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you would prefer to continue, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes and cast an illusion, using 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. You transform yourself into a giant, writhing serpent and slither towards the demons. They hesitate for only a moment before continuing to charge towards you. The illusion has failed. These are magical creatures, immune to the Magical Power of Enchantment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount, hoping that the horse does not stray, and plant yourself squarely, feet apart, to face the oncoming rush of Winged Demons. They are travelling at an incredible speed. Your heart is pounding. You mutter a Shianti prayer of hope under your breath and concentrate on the flock of creatures, judging their speed as closely as you can. You notice that they are spreading out into a kind of battle formation: a diagonal line angled towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to fire a long-range attack with your Wizard's Staff at the leading demon in the formation, and you have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If not, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue on your easterly course, constantly on the <!--ERRTAG-RE-266624-->lookout<!--/ERRTAG-RE-266624--> for danger. More than an hour of tense silence passes as you and Tanith hurry along. The tension is broken by Tanith's sudden cry. <quote>Look!</quote> she says, pointing. <quote>There's a river up ahead.</quote></p>
- <p>Less than a mile away, a river gleams and sparkles. You and Tanith break into a trot. When you reach the river bank you both drop to your knees, bending to scoop up great handfuls of cool water. You drink long and deeply before your raging thirst is quenched.</p>
- <p>You have reached the banks of the Dolani River. It leads south and fills Lake Dolani, which lies at least thirty miles away, according to Tanith. To the north east lie the Kashima Mountains, where the river begins; the mountains look to be at least fifty miles away. The river is too wide and too deep to cross at this point; you will have to travel further upstream where it is likely to be narrower and shallower.</p>
- <p>You are just bending to take another drink of the refreshing water when Tanith touches you lightly on the shoulder. <quote>Grey Star,</quote> she murmurs. <quote>Ready yourself. We are about to be attacked.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only just alive, the creature lands on the ground with a faint cry. Before you are able to finish it off, it disappears from view. No doubt it has teleported to the portal in the hills of Tilos. You dig your heels into the stallion's flanks and it surges forward, renewing its unfaltering gallop across the grassy plain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding the Moonstone aloft, you descend the stairs adjoining the galleries. As you reach the last, you come face to face with the demon horde. In the passage before you stand three reptilian beasts, hunched, malformed figures with yellow, glistening fangs and red, baleful eyes. As the first rays of the Moonstone touch them, the protective aura of your necromantic spell causes them to shield their deformed faces and howl in torment. With horror, you notice that the demons behind them are dragging the corpses of the Masbaté dead from their crypts. The three before you snarl and spit in frustration, hovering just beyond the range of the protective ring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to attack at long range, with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to advance on the demons, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run through the shadowy darkness and emerge at the forest's edge, where Shadakine and Freedom Guild swordsmen are locked in bloody combat. The Shadakine have the advantage of greater numbers and are forcing the Guildsmen into the forest in a stumbling, disorderly line. They cannot hold for long. You suddenly realize that the strange, <!--ERRTAG-RE-277730-->pupilless<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277730--> eyes of the Shadakine allow them to see in the dark. No wonder they have attacked in the middle of the night. Their advantage is considerable. A tall officer stands behind the Shadakine warriors, urging them on. Your sudden appearance at the edge of the forest has startled him but he quickly recovers. He bares his teeth and snarls before attacking.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Shadakine and Freedom Guild swordsmen are locked in bloody combat.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="585"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="585"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Officer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to evade, you may do so now by darting back into the undergrowth; <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the power of Telergy, you attempt to dominate the will of the creatures and throw a word of command at them. Although you succeed in halting them, you notice that they are all attempting to resist your command. These creatures must be magical and immune to most forms of enchantment. However, the <!--ERRTAG-RE-271241-->Power of Telergy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271241--> is a <!--ERRTAG-RE-271307-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271307-->, unknown to all but the highest masters of the magical arts and suddenly the demons vanish. Unable to prevent the domination of their minds, they have fled, using their own magical powers. You are safe. The spell has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fearlessly you spur your horse into a downhill gallop, ploughing into the ranks of the leading beasts and scattering bodies everywhere. The momentum of your charge carries you deep into their midst but, inevitably, the pack's large number absorbs the shock of your attack and you find yourself hemmed in on all sides.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you have recently drunk a Potion of Invulnerability, or have the protection of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-272303-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272303--> of Thaumaturgy, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you do not have this protection, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an impetuous cry, you rush forward, whirling your Staff above your head. The demons stumble backwards in alarm, careering into those behind and causing an uproar of animal cries. With a deadly flash of steel, Tanith fells one of the beasts with her dagger, and, at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, you deliver a powerful blow that sends another crashing to the ground. You reach the doorway of the crypt. The demons are running in the opposite direction, heading for the stairs that lead back down to the hall. Horrified, you notice that some are dragging the corpses of Masbaté dead from the crypts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107"><link-text>Turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You loose a bolt of <!--ERRTAG-RE-273543-->energy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-273543--> at the horseman, using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. A cloud of fire explodes at his chest and he falls from his horse, dead. You run to the body. By stealing the dead horseman's uniform, you will be able to lead the demon host against the Shadakine Army; the Shadakine will think that you are one of their own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you still have your Simar stallion, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If it has been killed, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking careful aim at the leading demon, you hurl a bolt of magical fire, killing it instantly. The horde comes to a stumbling halt. This attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The Masbaté reach you. Without stopping to ask who you are, they release a volley of shining javelins that arc over your heads and <!--ERRTAG-RE-274654-->plunges into<!--/ERRTAG-RE-274654--> the demon ranks. Swords drawn, the Masbaté sprint past. You and Tanith are swept along by the momentum of their charge and into the throes of a bloody battle. You almost collide with a hunched, ape-like creature with four arms and a long tail. You cannot avoid combat and must fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ape Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head south in pursuit of the lone figure. Soon you have drawn close enough to be able to see that the figure is humanoid in shape, although it runs with a curious, shambling gait. The shimmering heat haze prevents you from discerning any further details. Abruptly it comes to a halt. You quicken your pace. Tanith has begun to lag behind but offers no word of protest. Purposefully you stride towards your prey, but stop dead in your tracks when you come within fifty paces of it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110"><link-text>Turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You skid to a halt and try to judge how much time you have before the demon host in the west will reach you. You guess at a quarter of an hour at most. But first you must survive the onslaught of the denizens that speed towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to fight on horseback, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to fight on foot, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You veer sharply, heading west for a while. Soon the figures have passed out of sight and you are able to resume your course towards the hills of Tilos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237"><link-text>Turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk around the building but cannot find a water hole or stream. The west wall of the ziggurat bears a ten-foot high arch. The doors are made of stone.</p>
- <p><quote>How are we to open these?</quote> asks Tanith.</p>
- <p>You guess that there must be some internal mechanism for opening the doors. They are certainly too heavy to be opened by hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it to find an opening mechanism for the doors, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you have the Magical Power of Psychomancy and wish to use it to find an opening mechanism, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-277865-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277865--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to try to teleport yourself to the other side of the doors, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you have none of <!--ERRTAG-RE-278105-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-278105-->, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before the next demon dives, you begin an erratic sequence of diagonal moves. The demons are thrown into confusion and you are able to reduce the distance to the pass. When at last the next dive comes, you are taken by surprise. Instead of attacking you, the winged Demon gouges a line of bloody weals along the stallion's haunches. The stallion screams in pain but does not falter. You chance a look behind and see that the horde is still far away. A third demon dives. This beast has an insectoid body combined with feathered bird's wings. You attempt a dummy turn but the beast is not fooled.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Insect Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts for only one round. If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Four distant forms mount a rise that slopes gently away from the Dolani River. As they head towards you, you see that they are ghastly, malformed creatures. Each is misshapen in a different way. These must be the demons summoned long ago by the Wytch-king, Shasarak, and sent as a plague to destroy the Masbaté tribe that once dwelt here. When the demons' purpose was fulfilled they were left to roam the plains at will.</p>
- <p>The leading demon, its shining green skin and toad-like features reflected in the dull glow of the setting sun, gives vent to a feral scream and begins to run towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you have the Magical Power of Necromancy, and wish to use it to chant an incantation against evil, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to attempt a long-range attack with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you prefer to wait for the demons to approach, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The remaining Flying Snake keeps pace with you for a short while longer before soaring into the air and disappearing from view, heading east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hand Tanith your Staff and Backpack and begin to climb into the uncertain darkness of the well. <!--ERRTAG-RE-281248-->Halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-281248--> down one of the rungs comes loose in your hand. You are unable to keep your balance and fall, hitting the sides of the shaft many times and enduring many cuts and abrasions before splashing into the water below: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Gasping for breath, you reach out blindly in the dark until you locate a large, bowl-shaped object. Having made sure that it is full of water, you begin the slow, arduous climb to the top, struggling to hold on to the rungs and the bowl of water. Eventually you reach the top and Tanith takes the bowl from you. Bruised and bedraggled, you haul yourself out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Shadakine are wheeling large engines of war to the front of their lines: they are powerful catapults. <!--ERRTAG-RE-294413-->Pinpoints<!--/ERRTAG-RE-294413--> of flame appear. Sado has guessed their intentions and orders his bowmen to fire. The archers of the Freedom Guild send volley after volley singing through the air towards the Shadakine and many of the distant spots of light go out. Suddenly many balls of flame arc through the air above the heads of the men of the Freedom Guild to fall into the trees behind.</p>
- <p><quote>Hah!</quote> Sado shouts. <quote>The fools are way off target.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I think not,</quote> replies Samu.</p>
- <p>You understand his meaning as you watch the dry brush of the forest begin to burn. <quote>They mean to flush us out!</quote> you cry with alarm.</p>
- <p>All around you small fires are catching the trees and in a short time smoke billows in choking clouds throughout the Freedom Guild's ranks. Orange tongues of flame are licking on every side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect351"><link-text>Turn to 351</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the group draws nearer, you realize that these are the horrific forms of demons. Half-man and half-beast, with slavering fangs and sword-sharp tusks, they run towards you. They come within a hundred paces, their cackling yells and feral howling indicating that they mean to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to charge, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you wish to attack them at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While your enemies are dazed, you charge forward, whirling your Staff above your head. The demons are too stunned to react and suddenly you are upon them, raining deathly magical fire in all directions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tug the stallion's head to one side and pull away from their shambling advance at a gallop. You skirt the edge of the valley, keeping a large distance between yourself and your enemies. They fall into babbling confusion, splitting into disorganized groups and making their various ways out of the valley. You move at great speed, faster than the confused mass that seeks you out, and you cover the mile in a short time, thundering to a halt at the other end of the valley where the portal burns <!--ERRTAG-RE-284969-->halfway<!--/ERRTAG-RE-284969--> down the slope.</p>
- <p>As you study the burning arch, a large, winged spider with eight bulbous but distinctly human eyes swoops towards you. It is coming at you too swiftly for you to be able to fire at it from long range and you cannot evade without risking serious injury. It is a fight to the death. If you have swallowed a potion of Invulnerability, or used the <!--ERRTAG-RE-285403-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285403--> of Thaumaturgy to render yourself invulnerable, ignore all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demon Spiderfly</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue at an even faster pace in your bid to find the lake before nightfall. Your throat is parched and the exertion of walking in such heat causes you to lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You notice that the plain is beginning to slope gently upwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, or are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-286402-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286402--> of Theurgy, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you do not possess either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-286581-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286581-->, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The large Flying Snake hurtles towards you. You hold your Staff aloft and brace yourself to receive the attack but the stallion is nervous and unsettled and you are unable to remain in any one position for very long. Also, you are forced to use one hand to control your mount. You cannot evade combat and must subtract 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Flying Snake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts for only one round as the demon swoops past. If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run along the gallery and down many stairways to confront three reptilian beasts. Hunched and malformed, the creatures have glistening fangs and baleful eyes. Before you are able to take any further action they hurl themselves at you emitting bloodcurdling screams. You cannot avoid combat and must fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Three Demons</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Judging from the position of the sun in the blue, cloudless sky, you estimate that it is well past noon when the green hills of Tilos come into view. There has been no further sign of the demon plague. The protection of the Moonstone and the aura of light that you have summoned with your necromantic powers must have kept the demons at bay. Where then are they? Samu told you that there are possibly a thousand of the evil creatures. Surely they will seek to prevent you from reaching the portal that is the sole gateway to their world?</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-289182-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-289182--> of a Visionary, and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points in its use, you must give up the protection from evil granted to you by the use of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-289182-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-289182--> of Necromancy, since both spells require the use of the Moonstone. If you wish to cease your use of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-289584-->Power of Necromancy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-289584--> and use your <!--ERRTAG-RE-289665-->Power as a Visionary<!--/ERRTAG-RE-289665-->, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you have the Magical Power of Prophecy, and wish to use it at the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you do not possess either of <!--ERRTAG-RE-290035-->these Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-290035-->, lack sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to use them, or do not wish to use these forms of magic at the moment, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride the horse to the edge of the river and dive in. You swim with desperate strokes, but the Shadakine armour drags at your body.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add this number to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If the total is 12 or less, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If the total is more than 12, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mountains lie all around you on the horizon. You guess that it is summer, for the sun beats strongly and the sky is cloudless. Despite the heat, Tanith shivers. <quote>There is an evil presence here,</quote> she mutters.</p>
- <p>According to Tanith, you have arrived in the centre of the Lissan Plain. The fortress city of Shadaki lies many hundreds of miles to the east. A broad line of distant mountains separates you from that city of evil. Suddenly you realize that you have no food or water. The simplest of requirements stands between you and the fulfilment of a quest upon which thousands of lives depend. If you do not find water soon you will die.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to head east in the direction of the city of Shadaki, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to head south, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your journey proceeds without further incident. You can see the wide, forested pass a few miles away. Once you have gained the safety of the trees, you will wait for the demon host to seek you out, and then make a final dash for the Lanzi bridge on the River Dosar, where Samu and the Masbaté will be waiting for you. But your spirits have lifted too soon. Heading straight towards you is a dark cloud of wings and snakelike bodies. It is a flock of flying snakes numbering at least twenty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to try to make a dash for the forest, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to make a stand, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A flash of colour catches your eye: it is a collection of purple Phinomel. This flowering shrub, also known to some as Dragonkiss, grows round the base of rocks and stones, taking root in the damp soil beneath. The name Dragonkiss comes from the plant's curious, perilous flowers. Each flower is a semi-transparent pod and its colour comes from the potent, purple acid within each one. If the main plant is disturbed the pods may squirt a stinging jet of acid, capable of inflicting a painful burn. If the pods can be plucked carefully from the main plant, without disturbing the main plant, the acid can be preserved and used at a later date. The acid is of great use to Alchemists and Theurgists as a constituent part of a formulae to transform base metals to metals of greater worth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to pluck some Phinomel pods, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moon bursts through a space in the clouds and you see Sado, a bloody sword in one hand, standing upon the brow of a low hill. He and a small number of his personal guard are beset on all sides by Shadakine warriors. You sprint over to him. Looking to the east, you see a sight that makes you <!--ERRTAG-RE-294426-->gasp. Beyond<!--/ERRTAG-RE-294426--> the edge of the forest is the Shadakine Army. It is larger than you ever imagined, row upon row of bristling spears and swords wink beneath the night sky. Among the ranks you sight the glow of a Kazim Stone; a Shadakine Wytch must accompany the army.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Sado stands upon the brow of a low hill, a bloody sword in his hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="521"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="521"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You enter the battle that rages at Sado's feet in an effort to free him so that he can command the rest of the army. More and more men appear out of the darkness, summoned by his rallying call. A Shadakine spearman springs out of the shadows and runs towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points and wish to fire at the spearman at long range, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to stand and face the warrior's charge, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to flee, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A second blast of flame sends another demon to its doom; the hunched creature with a shiny purple back, shaped like a beetle lies in a heap on the ground. With a mad gibber of panic the others dematerialize. You are safe. This magical attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A large Flying Snake hurtles towards you. You hold up your Staff and brace yourself to receive the attack. The beast's razor-sharp talons flex and stretch to scour your flesh. You cannot evade combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Flying Snake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts for only one round as the demon flashes past. If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an awful shriek, the last of the demons falls dead at your feet. There are more behind but they back away cautiously, spitting and growling. With horror, you notice that many of the demons are dragging the corpses of the Masbaté dead from their crypts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to attack one of these demons at long range with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you wish to charge the demons, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dig your heels in the stallion's flanks and it launches into a thunderous gallop. You come within ten paces of the demon line; the light from the Moonstone, which you hold aloft, shines brightly on their faces. With the first touch of its rays, the pack emits a chorus of wailing and anguished shrieks. They scatter in all directions, shielding their grotesque faces and squirming to avoid the Moonstone's light. However, before your charge can hit home, they disappear: they must have teleported to the portal in the hills of Tilos. You slow the white stallion and proceed at a gentler pace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237"><link-text>Turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Something appears in the clear, sunlit sky. At first you think that one of the little winged snakes has returned, but, as the creature draws closer, you realize that this beast is far larger, though identical to the earlier serpents in every other way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to attack the Flying Snake at long range with your Wizard's Staff, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If not, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still levitating, you drift towards the demon as it prepares to launch itself at Tanith. At a height of ten feet, you release the spell and fall on to the creature's back. It crashes to the ground with a piping scream and you roll away from its inert body and flip back on to your feet. Glowering, you face the remaining demons, who begin to edge back, gurgling with fear. Sensing your advantage, you loose a terrifying cry and launch yourself at them, Staff ablaze. The demons freeze, panic-stricken, but before you can strike they vanish. You are safe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99"><link-text>Turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gaze into the Moonstone and, using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you fill the orb with visions of nearby events. The swirling haze of colours clears to reveal a deep valley. At the bottom of that valley you can see a multitude of demonic creatures. They stand before a shimmering arc of fire that hovers in the air. This is the demon portal; they lie, waiting for you to approach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Somewhere in the forest your pursuers are stamping through the dense foliage, smashing their way towards you. You leap into the saddle of the Shadakine mount and speed away, heading south towards Lanzi, where Samu and his Masbaté warriors are waiting for you at the bridge. You pray that the Shadakine Army is already well on its way to Lanzi.</p>
- <p>Glancing over your shoulder you see the first of the horde burst from the undergrowth of the forest. You concentrate on the last frantic dash that lies ahead of you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect352"><link-text>Turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shadows have deepened into night as the last demon falls dead at your feet. Despite the unfavourable odds, you have triumphed. Tanith is unharmed but you are exhausted after your efforts. Panting, you fall to your knees, head slumped and shoulders heaving as you regain your breath.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remain conscious long enough to see the bridge erupt into flames and collapse into the waters of the River Dosar. Then you faint with exhaustion into Samu's arms. When at last you come round it is night and the Masbaté have made camp along the route towards the Army of the Freedom Guild in the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you run along the gallery in search of a place to hide. A babble breaks out from the creatures below: you have been spotted. The scuffle of webbed and clawed feet tells you that the demon horde is rushing up the stairs towards you. There is nowhere to hide. The only way down to the hall is by those stairs and you may only leave the tomb by the entrance to the hall.</p>
- <p><quote>We'll have to fight our way out,</quote> you say to Tanith. She nods, a grim expression on her face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236"><link-text>Turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With quaking heart, you ascend the hill. You stand at the top in a circle of stone forms with the indistinct features of men. Their voices murmur in a haunting, faraway whisper.</p>
- <p><quote>He comes&ellips; the Grey One comes&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Does he bear the key&ellips; the Masterstone&ellips; our salvation?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Who are you?</quote> you shout into the darkness. The whispering subsides and one voice speaks to you.</p>
- <p><quote>We are the Kazim; the Stone peoples. Old as the earth. We have waited.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>For what?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>For the bearer of the Masterstone to set us free from this hill that we might claim back what was once ours. We seek our hearts that the Dark One stole from us long ago.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description><quote>We are the Kazim. The Stone peoples. Old as the earth. We have waited.</quote></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A glimmer of realization dawns in your mind. <quote>Who?</quote> you ask, urgently. <quote>Who stole your hearts?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>He who calls himself Shasarak, sundered and shameful brother of the Shianti.</quote></p>
- <p>The Kazim Stones of the Shadakine Wytches must be the hearts of these poor, forlorn creatures. Trapped and heartless upon this hill they have waited for you to free them. <quote>But how?</quote> you ask the Kazim.</p>
- <p><quote>You must have the key or we would not have awakened from our sleep of centuries and felt your presence here in the forest. You are the bearer of the Masterstone. Take it out and free us as the Shianti promised.</quote></p>
- <p>They must mean the Moonstone. Long ago the Shianti must have promised to free the Kazim out of shame for the actions of their renegade Shianti brother. Now you have come to fulfil that promise for them. The Kazim mentioned regaining their hearts. If they are successful, they rob Shasarak's most powerful servants of their power. The separate threads of the story fall into place as the ancient plans of the Shianti finally come to fruition. You draw out the Moonstone. Though you have not exerted any power upon it, it is shining with a blinding white light of its own. The seven Kazim roar with pleasure as the rays of the Moonstone touch their rocky bodies, and then they begin to move, stretching their craggy limbs after centuries of sleep.</p>
- <p>One of the Kazim speaks to you. <quote>We thank you,</quote> it says. <quote>But you must go now, back to your people. Their enemy approaches, bringing with them an enemy of ours. We will come soon, when we are fully ready and restored to life. Hurry. Battle begins.</quote></p>
- <p>In the distance you can hear the sound of many voices shouting. The Shadakine must have attacked by night. You whirl around and dash down the hill, heading towards the sound of battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect358"><link-text>Turn to 358</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking a deep breath, you plunge a point of concentrated <!--ERRTAG-RE-306013-->Sorcery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306013--> into the doors. As the beam of energy hits the fabric of the stone, you realize that you will need to use a great deal of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> before the doors will break. With a huge surge of energy you throw 5 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points at the door.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magic Talisman of the Shianti, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If the total is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If the total is less than 4, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You charge towards the Shadakine ranks facing the bridge. They are surprised by the unexpected attack from behind, especially as it seems that they are attacked by one of their own kind. In a kind of mad desperation, you attempt to force a passage through the swirling mass, pulling off your helmet to show the Masbaté on the bridge that you have returned. There are a great number of Shadakine standing between you and the bridge. You must fight them as one enemy and to the death. Owing to the initial surprise of your charge, you may add 3 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Warriors</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect353">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 353</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue east. When you next look over your shoulder, the figure has vanished. An uneasy feeling stirs inside you. You quicken your pace. As the sun slowly crosses the sky, the heat becomes less intense and walking becomes easier. Nevertheless, you grow more anxious as the evening approaches for you have seen no trace of a stream or water hole and you will never find one at night. You can survive without food for some time but you must find water soon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you are carrying the Moonstone in your hand, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you are carrying it in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A plume of fiery light shoots from your Staff and hits a two-headed man shape with a black horn in the centre of each brow. It falls dead, wreathed in magical fire. The nine that remain continue to shamble towards you but, when they have come within ten spaces, they suddenly scatter in all directions, shielding their grotesque faces and twisting to avoid the light of the Moonstone. The next moment they have vanished, teleporting to the portal that lies somewhere in the hills of Tilos. Your magical attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237"><link-text>Turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chariot careers along a wild and unpredictable course. Desperately you try to judge its next turn as it bears down upon you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add this number to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If the total is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If the total is less than 12, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night has grown old before you arrive at the torchlit entrance to a cave in the Kashima Mountains. Dioka leads you through a maze of winding passageways in the rock and eventually you come to a wide cavern. At the far end of the cavern, mounted on a rough-hewn dais of stone is a large throne. Sat upon the throne is the Masbaté king deep in thought, his hand cupping his broad jaw. Suddenly your heart lifts. You recognize this man!</p>
- <p><quote>My lord,</quote> Dioka begins. The king lifts his great head. <quote>May I present!</quote></p>
- <p>But the sentence is never finished, for the king is none other than Samu himself. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> he cries, rising to his feet. <quote>You live!</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can speak a word, King Samu leaps from the stone dais and bounds towards you, sweeping you up in a bone-crunching embrace. <quote>Seven years, Grey Star,</quote> he booms. <quote>Seven years since last we stood together. We thought that you perished long ago, deep in the caverns of Desolation Valley. What became of your search for the Shadow Gate of the Daziarn&emdash;did you succeed after all? Did you find the Moonstone of the Shianti? What has happened since you stepped upon the wasted lands beyond the Lissan Mountains?</quote></p>
- <p>He hugs you once again, squeezing the air from your lungs. When you have regained sufficient breath to speak, you explain what has happened to you since you were separated, and of how the passage of time runs differently on the Daziarn plain. <quote>I have but recently returned,</quote> you say. <quote>And behold!</quote> You draw out the Moonstone. <quote>I succeeded. Look you upon Shasarak's bane&emdash;the Moonstone of the Shianti.</quote></p>
- <p>A great noise fills the hall as the Masbaté warriors clash their weapons and call out their battle cries. The Moonstone blazes with a vivid white light that illuminates the whole hall and the faces of the fierce Masbaté. Samu draws his own sword with a great cry. <quote>The final battle begins,</quote> he bellows. <quote>Revenge will be ours. Death to the Shadakine! Death to the Shadakine Wytches&ellips; and death to the Wytch-king, Shasarak, foe of the Masbaté and the Shianti, enemy of all life itself!</quote></p>
- <p>The great chamber echoes with the ferocious cries of the Masbaté warriors. When the clamour has died down, you and Tanith are led to chambers within the mountainside, there to eat and rest. The following morning you will meet King Samu to discuss ways in which the Masbaté can aid you in your struggle against Shasarak. You drift off to sleep that night with your spirits lifted. Tomorrow you must ensure the safety of the Army of the Freedom Guild before the Shadakine force, due to move in two days, is able to march against it. You know now that you will not have to face that peril alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brace yourself to receive the first of the fearsome beasts, a large Flying Snake. You watch as it gains sufficient height for its dive. The stallion prances nervously, shifting this way and that; it is difficult to control.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to release a long-range attack at the Flying Snake, and have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If not, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the wounded creature gives vent to a maniacal screech and all four throw themselves at you. Staff swinging, you rise to meet their challenge, a lone figure besieged by hell-borne minions of insane ferocity.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chariot is veering crazily. It is impossible to judge which way it will swerve next. It turns abruptly and heads towards you. Your senses are slow to react and you are unable to move quickly enough to avoid the oncoming rush of the chariot. You are trampled to death by the horses.</p>
- <p>Your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an energy borne of sheer desperation, you send a volley of blows at the beasts with your Wizard's Staff. You cannot evade combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Four Demons of the Plains</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two more attacks follow on the stallion rather than yourself. Its pure white coat is stained with blood and you can feel its pace begin to falter.</p>
- <p>You see a small, winged ape circle above you and shoot downwards. At the last moment it slows its descent, grabbing hold of the horse's harness and tugging it violently. You struggle and twist in the saddle and try to aim a blow at the gibbering creature without falling from the horse. The stallion stumbles but does not fall.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Winged Ape</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">16</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect206">If the combat lasts for three rounds, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you win the combat in one or two rounds, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you close your eyes and concentrate. Your senses reach out and search. In the hills beyond, a terrible evil waits, a malevolent, unthinking, yet strangely natural evil. A dark force lies in wait for you! You are expected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tense with anticipation, you wait for the lone figure to arrive. It is humanoid in shape and you notice that it moves with a strange shambling gait. Suddenly it comes to an abrupt halt&ellips; and vanishes! A thrill of fear runs down your spine: There is an unfamiliar magic at work. Tanith gives you a questioning look but says nothing. With a shrug you continue on your way, the mystery unresolved.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Even as Agarash's words are fading, a tumultuous roar fills the air: the demon host is roused into a frenzy. Instinctively the Simar steed turns and thunders up the slope of the valley, heading east. The howling pack springs forward in pursuit, possessed of a savage fury instilled in them by their master. The terrified stallion flies like the wind out of the Tilos hills and on to the even plain. The countryside rushes past in a blur of green. Now you must head for the pass in the mountains to the east, a patch of forest among the hills.</p>
- <p>Almost fifty <!--ERRTAG-RE-318178-->miles lie<!--/ERRTAG-RE-318178--> between you and the pass. You look over your shoulder to see that the enraged beasts are beginning to dwindle in the distance as the Simar's broad, rolling gait eats up the miles. The horse's coat gleams with sweat and there is foam around its mouth but it no longer moves with the madness of a runaway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to stop for a while, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to continue as you are until you reach the pass, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horseman thunders towards you. You brace yourself.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadakine Horseman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Combat lasts for only one round, as the speed of his charge carries him past you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you kill the horseman, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If not, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dark, fearsome shape stands before you, towering at least ten feet high. It has the head of a large bull and wisps of smoke curl from its flaming nostrils. Its eyes burn with a terrible intensity that fills your heart with dread as it lifts its horned head and roars. It stretches its broad bat wings, throwing a cloak of shadow over you. The demons that fill the hall are but minions of this fierce master. Before you are able to summon magical forces to combat this awesome foe, the Demon Master lunges forward on its cloven feet. Its grasping, clawed hands reach out, hungry to squeeze the life from your body. You may not evade this combat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Demon Master lunges forward on its cloven feet.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="611"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="611"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Demon Master</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you defeat the Demon Master in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If the combat lasts for four rounds, and you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moving at a slow trot, you journey into the hills. After travelling for half an hour or so you hear a low murmuring of strange, inhuman voices. As you crest the next hill, you find that you are looking down a gentle slope that leads into a shallow valley. With horror, you see that the floor of the valley is a crawling writhing mass of demons. Never before have you seen such a damnable pit of diabolic malevolence. Every conceivable distortion of human and animal life waits there, grotesque combinations of many different beasts.</p>
- <p>A thousand corrupt faces look up at you where you sit, mounted on the great white stallion, atop the highest ridge of the valley. Even the stolid nerves of the Simar steed are shaken and it stamps and snorts in distress. A sinister moan of disquiet ripples through the ranks of the cursed creatures. It is a dreadful sound. You sway in the saddle, such is the force of such a concentrated pool of evil, all focused upon you. An unconquerable tide of fear wells up inside you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is 20 or more, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> total is less than 20, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bruised and bleeding, you drag yourself to your feet. The stallion is dead. A knot of panic stirs in your belly. Many miles of flat grassland devoid of cover or protection lie between you and the pass. Without stopping to ponder your sad loss you turn to run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210"><link-text>Turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Boldly you head towards the distant figure.</p>
- <p><quote>Take care, Grey Star,</quote> Tanith cautions.</p>
- <p>The distant figure runs with a curious, shambling gait. As you advance to meet it, your body tingling with apprehension, it comes to an abrupt halt. Several paces later you also stop dead in your tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110"><link-text>Turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using this Magical Power, you are able to sense the exact location of the demon portal: it lies in the valley at the centre of this range of hills.</p>
- <p>You journey for less than half an hour and, below the crest of the next hill, you dismount and lead the white horse with all the stealth you can muster. You move along the perimeter of the hill's ridge until you come to the far end. Then you peer over the lip of the hill and down its gentle slope. You look upon a shallow valley covered with a crawling, writhing mass of utter horror. Every conceivable malformation of human and animal life waits there, grotesque combinations of many different beasts. A wave of revulsion washes through you. A shimmering arc of fire hovers in the air about three hundred yards down the slope: it is the demon portal that only you can close.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you have a Potion of Invulnerability and wish to swallow it now, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you do not have such a Potion, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the night sky is filled with fireballs, hurled from Shadakine catapults. They fly through the air above the heads of the Army of the Freedom Guild and land in the trees behind them. The dry brush of the forest begins to burn.</p>
- <p><quote>They mean to flush us out!</quote> you cry alarmed.</p>
- <p>All around, fires are starting. Soon the surrounding trees are ablaze. Smoke billows in choking clouds through the ranks of the army, and the fire is still spreading.</p>
- <choice idref="sect351"><link-text>Turn to 351</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your brave resistance, the Demon Master seems to be drawing on hidden reserves of power. Suddenly its leathery wings flap and it lifts into the air with deceptive speed. The surprise movement catches you off your guard and the hoof that lashes out at your head throws you to the stone floor. Blood streams from a wound in your forehead: lose a further 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your senses whirl from the force of the blow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brace yourself to receive the first charge of a Flying Snake, watching it as it ascends to a sufficient altitude for the maximum impact on diving. The stallion prances nervously and your heart hammers at your ribs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to release a long-range attack at the Flying Snake, and have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you prefer not to, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on the force of your will, you shape a wall of sorcerous energy in front of you. You use 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point. The toad-like demon slams into the magical wall with a squawk of disbelief. It stares stupidly at the shimmering shield, touching it with its fingers. Before you can take any further action, it disappears into thin air along with its three companions. You relax your guard for a few moments and then suddenly the four demons reappear. Only now they are positioned behind you and the sorcerous wall is useless. With a malicious shriek of glee, the four demons pounce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you enter the hill country of Tilos. You have been wandering for an hour when you hear a suspicious sound like a distant murmur. Coming to the top of a hill, you look out on to a shallow valley. At the bottom of the valley is a crawling mass of horror: hundreds of demons lurk there. Parts of many beasts exist in grotesque combinations, a perverse mockery of nature's laws. Hundreds of corrupted faces look up at you sat astride the great white stallion upon the highest ridge in the valley. Even the stolid temperament of the Simar steed is shaken. It stamps and snorts, obviously distressed. A sinister moan of disquiet ripples through the creatures' cursed ranks. You sway in the saddle, recoiling from the malice focused on you. At the far end of the valley, less than a mile away, a shimmering arc of fire hovers in the air: it is the portal. It is too far away for you to be able to close it from here, and the entire demon plague stands in your way. A commotion breaks out below, and the demons begin to edge their way slowly up the valley towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you have a Potion of Invulnerability, and wish to drink it now, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If not, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you pull off the helmet and stand flinching beneath Samu's poised sword. But he is an expert warrior and he checks its downward sweep in an instant. His eyes bulge in amazement. <quote>Grey Star!</quote> he gasps. <quote>I almost killed you!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>No time&ellips; no time,</quote> you reply, quickly, shaking Samu from his stupor. <quote>Call your men; we must retreat. See?</quote> you say, gesturing across the river. <quote>I have brought the demon plague. We must flee while they and the Shadakine fight.</quote></p>
- <p>It is as you say. Across the river the demons wage a ferocious battle against the Shadakine. Instantly Samu springs into action, calling to his men and ordering a trumpeter to sound a retreat. The Masbaté retire. The Shadakine are too involved in their fight to pursue, at least for the moment, but you know that it is essential to destroy the bridge to prevent any pursuit should the Shadakine, who must number in their thousands, quickly defeat the demon plague.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-330146-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-330146--> of Physiurgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-330146-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-330146--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you do not possess any of <!--ERRTAG-RE-330542-->the above Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330542-->, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When at last the fury of the battle has passed, you look down and see the lifeless corpses of the demons. Unbelievably, in the face of such overwhelming odds, you have triumphed. Exhausted by the effort of your defence, you drop to your knees, panting heavily. Eventually Tanith's efforts rouse you, and you resume your journey east.</p>
- <p>In the dim light of night, you see a sparkle in the distance. It is a river. Both you and Tanith break into a run, only stopping, breathlessly, to drink its cool waters. You have drunk long and deep before your thirst is quenched. Tanith expels a breath of satisfaction, sitting up on her haunches and wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. She scours the land.</p>
- <p><quote>I'd guess that this is the Dolani River,</quote> she says. <quote>It leads south, where it fills Lake Dolani about thirty miles downstream. Upstream, its source is somewhere in the Kashima Mountains.</quote></p>
- <p>To continue your journey east, you will have to cross this river. It is too wide and deep to wade across here and the current is too fast for swimming. The river is likely to be narrower and shallower as it nears its source.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue the journey. At noon you cross the River Anduis near the town of Sena. You stop to warn the townspeople of Sena of the advance of Shadakine forces and enlist their help in destroying the bridge. This will ensure that the garrison at Andui, and the larger army beyond the River Dosar, will have to cross the River Anduis at the bridge of the city of Andui.</p>
- <p>By late afternoon you can see the large and mysterious Forest of Fernmost looming in the west. You have made good time. The Masbaté are tireless runners and have kept pace with your horse with little effort. You are passing a group of hills beyond the boundaries of the dark forest when you see a group of horsemen riding towards you. Each of them wears a red veil, part of the uniform of the Army of the Freedom Guild. When the riders are within a hundred paces, they stop and aim their bows at you.</p>
- <p><quote>Hail there men of the Freedom Guild. We are friends. Put down your weapons,</quote> you shout.</p>
- <p><quote>Who calls himself friend, yet marches from the north before an army?</quote> questions one of the riders.</p>
- <p><quote>I would speak with your leader, Sado of the Long Knife,</quote> you reply. <quote>Tell him an old friend has returned to aid him. Tell him it is I, Grey Star, of the Shianti.</quote></p>
- <p>At these words, the horsemen lower their bows and look at you in amazement as you ride towards them. You now wear your grey Shianti robe once more. Their expressions become joyous. <quote>You have come. You have returned,</quote> they cry. <quote>Sado said it would be so but none believed.</quote></p>
- <p>With glad hearts, the horsemen lead you and the Masbaté to the Freedom Guild's camp, which lies a few miles south of the hills. You come upon a sprawling mass of tents and fluttering banners. The camp is alive with activity. As you and the Masbaté pick your way among the tents and the campfires you attract a great deal of attention. Some soldiers offer a rousing cheer at the sight of the size of the Masbaté host: useful reinforcements in a time of desperate need. You and Samu leave the Masbaté to pitch their own camp in an unploughed field nearby and go to Sado's tent together. The tent flap is pulled aside and Sado of the Long Knife steps out. You recognize his lean, haggard and dangerous blue eyes. These eyes soften and a smile breaks across his face when he sees you.</p>
- <p><quote>Grey Star, I knew you would come back,</quote> he says. <quote>Hail Samu, and welcome.</quote> You both exchange greetings with the brave leader of the Freedom Guild. Inside his tent you tell him of the success of your quest for the Moonstone and the warning words of the Shianti, when they spoke to you in the chamber of the Moonstone.</p>
- <p><quote>And so,</quote> you say to close your story, <quote>it is their wish that we fall back into the Forest of Fernmost to escape the larger Shadakine Army that is sure to come against us once they have <!--ERRTAG-RE-335296-->crossed<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335296--> the Dosar and Anduis rivers.</quote></p>
- <p>Sado's brow furrows. <quote>But the forest is a place of evil,</quote> he says. <quote>Perhaps foul creatures of Shasarak's lurk there&emdash;creatures that would be his slaves if he desired it. Surely it would be better to march on Suhn and take it by siege. Once we occupied it, we would have a stranglehold on the bulk of Shadakine trade. It is the only port foreigners will visit in the Shadakine Empire, and its city walls would offer a better defence.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The Shadakine host would reach you before the Port of Suhn could be reduced,</quote> you tell him patiently. <quote>And they outnumber your army three to one. You would be cut off from your base at Karnali and the Shadakine would be able to send <!--ERRTAG-RE-336152-->reinforcements<!--/ERRTAG-RE-336152--> by sea. You would lose Karnali for sure and the whole seat of the rebellion would be destroyed, and your army too.</quote></p>
- <p>Sado looks doubtful. <quote>My army numbers ten thousand men. All are well trained. Your long absence has not seen us idle. We have engaged Shasarak's slaves wherever we have found them and my soldiers are well tested in combat.</quote></p>
- <p>The argument lasts well into the night, but Sado's faith in you, the Moonstone that you bear, and the wisdom of the Shianti, of whom you have spoken, eventually persuade him. Preparations are made to move the army out the following morning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect354"><link-text>Turn to 354</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A tumult of stones and rock shards falls noisily to the ground as the door cracks and then collapses. You nearly faint with the exertion of breaking the door and your head throbs but you have succeeded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look into the lambent glow of the Moonstone, shining forth with unquenchable purity. Your fear subsides. At the opposite end of the valley, less than a mile away, a shimmering arc of fire hovers in the air: it is the portal of the demon plague. You will never be able to close the portal at this distance. You must get closer. But the demon plague stands in your way. Though your aura of protection keeps them at bay, you know that you will have to release this spell while you use the Moonstone to close the portal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to ride to the other end of the valley, keeping high up on the slope away from the demons and attempt to close the portal without moving among the demon ranks, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to ride into the valley through the demon horde, to stand before the portal itself, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you don the uniform. Your Simar steed is exhausted and the Shadakine horse offers the chance of greater speed. You slap the Simar's haunches and watch it trot away. The beast has served you well and you offer a silent Shianti blessing that will keep the horse from harm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The figure is approaching from the south. There is no available cover on the open plain, so you can only evade by choosing to travel in a different direction from the figure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you wish to head north, back the way you came, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to head west, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to head east, towards the mountains that stand between you and the fortress city of the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brace yourself for another attack but, instead of attacking you, the Winged Demon that plunges through the air assails the stallion, gouging bloody weals across its haunches. The stallion cries frantically and you <!--ERRTAG-RE-340013-->realize<!--/ERRTAG-RE-340013--> the flaw in your strategy. The speed of your horse is an invaluable asset: you cannot risk leaving it unprotected. You mount, ready to fly. The Simar steed canters forward, then races into a full gallop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you release a bolt of magical fire from your Staff. It rips into the leading demon, killing it instantly. The remainder of the pack continue to charge on. Two of their number already confront you. Tanith and Kuna stand at your side. Kuna is unarmed and Tanith has only a dagger with which to defend herself. You cannot evade combat as evading would mean leaving them to face the pack alone.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Two Demons of the Plains</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes, sinking into the trance state required for the summoning of the elementals. Chanting in their secret tongue, you send the essence of your need into the elemental plane, reaching out for the brute strength of an earth elemental. A long pause ensues after completion of the chant: Earth spirits are notorious for their slow wits. Then there is a faint tremor in the ground beneath your feet. With an explosion of rocks and soil, a huge figure rears up before you. Its body is shaped like that of a muscular human, but it is angular, sharp and hard like rock. It is a Stoneghast. A thing of granite rather than flesh, it clambers out of the chasm it has made to reach you and stands above you, a towering fifteen feet in height. Taking great pains to make your command as simple as possible, you point at the stone door of the ziggurat. <quote>Smash!</quote> you shout clearly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>With an explosion of rocks and soil, a huge figure rears up before you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="602"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="602"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Wordlessly, the Stoneghast turns and walks towards the door with large, thunderous strides. In accord with the simplicity of its nature, the elemental walks straight into the door, shattering it as if it were glass. The task completed, it dives headlong back into the chasm. The earth moves to cover the Stoneghast's passing and, with a ripple, settles back into place. The use of <!--ERRTAG-RE-342660-->this Power<!--/ERRTAG-RE-342660--> has cost you 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step back and duck down in the undergrowth. The officer charges after you but does not see you hidden behind a bush. As he stops and looks around, you leap up and hurl him to the ground with a colossal killing blow. You hear Sado shouting in the distant darkness. You follow the sound of his voice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you raise a <!--ERRTAG-RE-343601--><spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell><!--/ERRTAG-RE-343601-->, forged from the energy of your will. The toad-like demon careers into it, forced to a halt with an astonished cry. When it has climbed back to its feet, it stands before the magical shield, tentatively touching the barrier with its hands. Suddenly all four of the demons vanish but almost immediately they reappear behind you, grinning maliciously. The sorcerous shield before you has been rendered useless. With an animal shriek the demons pounce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you don the uniform. You cast an appraising eye over the riderless Shadakine mount that stands nearby.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a fearsome <!--ERRTAG-RE-344687-->battle-cry<!--/ERRTAG-RE-344687--> you hurtle down the stairs and the pack scatters in all directions before you are able to inflict a single blow. The light from the Moonstone begins to fade as the power of the incantation wears off but it hardly matters now that you have cowed the hellish beasts into submission. Suddenly <!--ERRTAG-RE-354727-->the horde begins<!--/ERRTAG-RE-354727--> to gloat unpleasantly and you halt. At the far end of the hall looms a tall shadow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prepare to do battle with the demon host and decide to take advantage of the protection your Theurgic Potion offers. You swallow the dark, bitter liquid and slowly your body begins to glow with a strange blue light. Remember that the effects of the Potion will fade in a few hours. Delete the Potion of Invulnerability from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may keep the <!--ERRTAG-RE-358635-->empty Vial<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358635--> in your Herb Pouch or your <!--ERRTAG-RE-345775-->Backpack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345775-->. Mark your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tentatively at first you probe the strength of the doors with a field of mental energy, seeking out the weakest spot. Then, with a tremendous effort of will, you hurl a charge of mental energy into the stone itself. There is a rumbling as the doors vibrate with magical energy, then a resounding crack as one of the doors fractures and falls to the ground in a cloud of dust and rubble.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Subtract 1 from the number you have picked. If the result is zero, pick again, otherwise, this number is the total number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you have used in your assault upon the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As though the demon can read your mind, he throws himself at you before you are able to unleash an attack at him. Your own hatred of what he represents has betrayed you; now you must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ipagé Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you win the combat, you may pass through Shasarak's door and <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the building, its huge size becomes apparent. It is a magnificent structure, a towering ziggurat. As you stand before it, you realize that it is very old. The stone is weathered and overgrown with weeds and the cornerstones have been worn to ragged curves by the wind. It looks deserted&emdash;an ideal place to shelter for the night if only you could find some water. Tanith walks up and examines a section of the wall. It is inscribed with symbols.</p>
- <p><quote>This was once a building belonging to the Masbaté tribe,</quote> she says. <quote>They built it long ago.</quote></p>
- <p>You listen with interest. The Masbaté were the original inhabitants of the Lissan Plain. The present-day king of the Masbaté, Samu, a noble and fearless warrior, accompanied you when you sought the Moonstone. But he was a king without a kingdom, for Shasarak slew all the Masbaté, unleashing the peril of a demon plague to roam the Lissan Plain. It is said that those demons roam the plain still. You find the existence of the building curious, for the Masbaté were a nomadic tribe, crossing the plain according to the seasons and the needs of their cattle. Why should they build anything so permanent?</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to explore the ziggurat of the Masbaté, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you prefer to continue to search for Lake Dolani, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following morning you talk with Samu in his private chamber. You enquire after the fates of the old Kundi man, Urik the Wise, and Hugi the Thief, who also accompanied you on your quest for the Shadow Gate. You learn that Urik returned south to rejoin his people in the forests of the Azanam. Hugi, much to your surprise, returned to fight alongside Sado of the Long Knife with the Army of the Freedom Guild. Samu journeyed north from Desolation Valley to revisit his old country, the Lissan Plain. By chance he stumbled upon the surviving members of his people, who lived within the small belt of land around Lake Dolani and Lake Iss. It seems that the demons of the Lissan Plain are reluctant to cross water and so the lands beyond the rivers of the plain remained unstained by their presence. Only one pass leads out of the plain to the country that surrounds it beyond the mountains and the Masbaté held this pass against the demons. Under Samu's <!--ERRTAG-RE-363241-->newfound<!--/ERRTAG-RE-363241--> kingship, the last survivors of the Masbaté were reunited and formed a new, though smaller, realm around the southern lakes of Lissan. They created for themselves a home within the mountains, using it as a place to hide from the malevolent eye of Shasarak. They have fought unceasingly with the demons of the Lissan Plain, which Shasarak left to roam at will after the last of the Masbaté were thought to be slain, for the Masbaté still hope to regain the whole of the plain.</p>
- <p><quote>Their numbers are much reduced, compared to the great host that defeated us of old, though many hundreds still remain, especially the more powerful and cunning of their kind,</quote> explains Samu. <quote>And there is a power that eludes us yet, the power that allows them to remain in the world. There is a magical gate within the hills near Lake Tilos, the gate that allowed them into the world. It was Shasarak who opened this portal for them and they are able to travel through it to their demon plane as they wish. Whenever they are attacked by a Masbaté force likely to defeat them, they can transport themselves to this portal instantly. While such an escape route remains open to them, we can never hope to defeat them entirely.</quote></p>
- <p>While Samu speaks, a plan begins to form in your mind, a plan that would rid the Masbaté of the demon plague for ever and provide an answer to the problem of delaying the Shadakine Army long enough for you to warn the Freedom Guild of the overwhelming force that marches against them. You remember how the Moonstone opened a corridor from the Daziarn plane to the real world. Surely it must be able to reverse the process and close the portal in the hills east of Lake Tilos.</p>
- <p><quote>If it were not for the demon plague,</quote> Samu continues, <quote>and the threat it offers, we of the Masbaté would have joined forces with the Freedom Guild long ago but our wives and children must be protected. We could not leave them to the mercies of the demon plague. It is our belief that when the demons cross water they lose their ability to transport themselves to their portal. But if we warriors were not here to withstand them, they would have no need to use that power.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Worry no longer King Samu,</quote> you say, as a plan crystallizes in your mind. <quote>I will close the demon portal and, with the help of your brave warriors, I will lure the evil demon host to the Shadakine themselves.</quote> You explain the plan. You will journey to the hills of Tilos and, using the Moonstone, attempt to close the portal. Such an action is sure to attract every demon of Lissan against you. Then you will flee to the pass in the Kashima Mountains with the demon horde in pursuit. You will time this action so that you are able to lead the demons into the rear of the Shadakine column as it approaches the bridge that crosses the River Dosar at Lanzi.</p>
- <p><quote>But how can you be sure that the Shadakine Army will not have crossed the bridge at Lanzi before you reach them?</quote> Samu asks.</p>
- <p><quote>The Masbaté must hold the bridge against the Shadakine until I can lure the demons against them,</quote> you reply.</p>
- <p>Samu nods in understanding. <quote>And who will go with you to the portal?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I will go alone. All of the Masbaté will be needed to hold the bridge. My <!--ERRTAG-RE-353793-->Magical Powers<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353793--> and the Moonstone will protect me. They must.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly the door of the king's chamber is thrown open. Tanith stands there, white-faced and trembling. <quote>She has found me, Grey Star,</quote> she says in a quavering voice. <quote>She has searched and she has found me!</quote> Tanith looks weak; she can barely stand. Her eyes have a terrible haunted look.</p>
- <p><quote>Who&ellips; who has found you?</quote> you ask, fearing the answer.</p>
- <p><quote>Mother Magri, my old mistress, the Shadakine Wytch of Suhn. She has searched for me with the Kazim Stone and she has found me. Long I resisted her as she tried to probe my mind. She beckons, Grey Star, she calls, I cannot resist her much longer.</quote></p>
- <p>While Tanith remains, she is of great danger to you, for in seeking Tanith Mother Magri will discover that you have returned to the world. As a servant of the Wytch-king, Shasarak, Mother Magri and her power over Tanith imperils your life and your entire quest. Tanith, it seems, has realized this already.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only one hundred <!--ERRTAG-RE-355155-->feet lie<!--/ERRTAG-RE-355155--> between you and the Masbaté, who are spreading out into battle formation, preparing to charge the demon horde. You will never know the outcome of the battle. Only one hundred feet from salvation the pack of evil beasts falls upon you, dragging you to the ground.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The entire day passes without any sign of the Shadakine. The army are well ensconced in defensive positions around the edges of the forest. Your sleep that night proves extremely restful, restoring 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> and 3 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The following day there is still no sign of the Shadakine Army. A tense, uneasy silence descends on the men: they are anxious to fight. That night you are awakened by the crooning call of voices that beckon you.</p>
- <p>Unable to resist, you rise and follow the sound deep into the forest. As you walk among the impenetrable shadows, you hear, mingled with the calls, the mournful creak of trees, whose branches have been stirred by a newly risen wind. You become aware of a sickly yellow glow deeper in the wood. You walk towards it, treading a path that leads up a steep hill of craggy, moss-covered stone. At the top of the hill are seven hulking shapes, tall as trees, wreathed in yellow light. The light reminds you of the yellow light of the Kazim Stones, instruments of truth and torture, power and possession, belonging to the Shadakine Wytches. A wave of panic grows inside you. The crooning is emanating from the tall forms within the halos of light, only now the words of the song are distinct:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>We are the Kazim, masters of truth,<br />
-Wielders of power, steadfast in sooth,<br />
-Lost are our stone hearts to the evil of the night,<br />
-Clutched by the dark one, stealer of light,<br />
-We wait for the Grey One, foe of the dark,<br />
-Heralding battle, to regain our hearts.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to charge up the hill and attack the tall shapes there, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to go to the top of the hill and investigate the tall shapes, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You defeat the Shadakine officer with a deceptive, sweeping blow aimed at his body. You then charge at the backs of the Shadakine, taking them by surprise. Their attack falters, and the men of the Freedom Guild surge forward, driving the Shadakine before them. You hear Sado shouting to his men, attempting to rally them to him. You and the men of the Freedom Guild follow the sound of his voice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to an abrupt halt, wheeling your Staff around like a scythe. The crazed beasts are taken completely by surprise and you press home your advantage, hacking and slashing at them ferociously. You must fight them as one <!--ERRTAG-RE-358588-->enemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358588-->.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Three Reptile Demons</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If the combat lasts for four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you fire at the chariot, aiming for one of the wheels. The wheel explodes into flames and the chariot collapses in a great cloud of dust. The men inside are hurled screaming into the air. With a satisfied nod, you turn and follow Sado and his men. Back at the camp, you see that the Guildsmen, while well ordered and ready to depart, are delaying moving to the forest. Sado shrugs. <quote>They are afraid of the forest,</quote> he says.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you hurl a ball of flame into the sky. But the nervous prancing of the stallion spoils your aim and the attack is wasted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text><!--ERRTAG-RE-360141-->Turn to 235<!--/ERRTAG-RE-360141--></link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you fill the Moonstone with power. As its swirling mists part, you are confronted by the haggard face of an old woman. You give an involuntary shudder; Mother Magri is staring straight at you.</p>
- <p><quote>Seek and ye shall find,</quote> the old crone jeers. <quote>And find her I have. Won't you come now, little one? There's plenty of room for you, my sweet.</quote></p>
- <p>Abruptly the image disappears. Tanith must have been drawn back to Suhn already. There is nothing you can do for her now. You can only hope that she can survive Mother Magri's clutches until you can find a way of saving her.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While another Winged Demon is ascending to a height from which it can dive, you turn and urge your steed to one last great effort towards the forest. At the forest's edge the plain is dotted with bushes and trees, preventing the Winged Demons from attacking. With a happy sigh you enter the leafy sanctuary of the woods. You dismount and lead the stallion along the curving trail that runs through the heart of the forest. You find a well hidden clearing, where you can rest for a few moments and plan the last stage of your task.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He brings down his Staff, aimed to split your skull with a crushing blow. You bring up the Moonstone to meet it and the blow is deflected. Shasarak cries out with frustration. Although the Moonstone has absorbed the attack, its light is now extinguished and Shasarak turns to attack once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Staff but Samu, a veteran warrior, swerves the falling arc of his blow into a side swipe that slices around the line of your defence. Only when you are slain does Samu realize the tragedy of what he has done, destroying the last hope of the Freedom Guild with one fatal blow.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the winged forms circle overhead, you trace a <!--ERRTAG-RE-363059-->zigzag<!--/ERRTAG-RE-363059--> pattern on the ground as you run. They swoop and dive and circle once again, but your mind is quicker. A huge, winged ape plummets towards you. Its claws find your flesh and inflict a livid wound in your shoulder. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A keening howl echoes round the hall, filling your ears, skull, chest and limbs and grinding the essence of your being to dust. Shasarak's might floods along the Staff, battling against your power, but you do not let go, will not let go, as your body trembles and shudders as though it will burst.</p>
- <p>Add together your current <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> totals. Subtract Shasarak's score of 10 from this. (Do not adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If your score totals more than 0, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If it totals 0 or less, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand at the edge of the forest, waving your arms to attract the rider's attention. He turns and heads towards you. At first he moves at a trot but, as he comes closer, he spurs his mount into a gallop, lowering his spear and pointing it at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to attack the horseman at long range with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to stand and receive the attack, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Will no one follow?</quote> you implore with searching eyes. There is a long, brooding silence, broken only by the occasional ring of armour as the <!--ERRTAG-RE-365324-->Guildsmen<!--/ERRTAG-RE-365324--> shuffle uneasily.</p>
- <p><quote>Will none listen to the wisdom of the Shianti?</quote> you shout into the silence. There is the sound of movement to your left. With relief you see King Samu striding towards you, leading a long line of his own warriors.</p>
- <p><quote>We of the Masbaté will heed the words of the Shianti,</quote> he booms. <quote>We at least do not fear to tread beneath the trees of Fernmost, not while a wizard of the Shianti leads us.</quote></p>
- <p>You hope that Samu's words will shame the Guildsmen into entering the forest. You are well aware of the legends that scare them. The Forest of Fernmost was once part of the ancient nation of Taklakot. Beyond the western edge of Fernmost lie the Mountains of Morn, which overlook the infamous <quote>deadlands</quote>. There stands the forbidden city of Gyanima and the blasted wasteland of Desolation Valley, which was the heart of the kingdom. Centuries ago, Shasarak came to the people of Taklakot as a wise Shianti, though he had turned from the path of goodness long before, refusing the exile that the goddess Ishir had demanded of his people. Because of the forbidden secrets that he unlocked for the race of Taklakot, a great calamity befell them. Great fires rushed through the kingdom and destroyed an entire civilization in a day. Only Shasarak survived, though he was horribly crippled and burnt. Many say that the dead spirits of Taklakot roam the forest of Fernmost to this day, seeking vengeance and taking it upon any who enter the forest.</p>
- <p>Samu's words and example seem to work. Gradually the Guildsmen move forward towards the forest. At last all are following the broad trail east, deep into the gloom of the forest. You lead the army into the deepening shadow. The forest shelters an eerie feeling of malice. A grey mist lingers upon the ground and the branches and leaves above form a sombre, green canopy that blots out the sky. There is a strange musty smell in the air. The army are ordered into various positions along the forest's edge to watch for the advance of the Shadakine host you left at the River Dosar. They are completely hidden by the tangled woods and thick undergrowth. Sado tells you he is grateful that you did not ask the army to journey any further into Fernmost, for, as you draw closer to its heart, a strange, watchful presence can be felt.</p>
- <p>With a delighted cry you notice clumps of Laumspur, a healing herb, growing in abundance. You chew on the herb and its goodness restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You may store another clump of Laumspur in your Backpack: it will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when chewed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you have the Magical Power of Alchemy, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you have the Magical Power of Theurgy, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you do not have either of these Magical Powers, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are coming to realize the impossible situation you have placed yourself in. You must try another tactic if you are to see the sun set on this day.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226"><link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you call on the elementals for their aid. After a few moments, a huge wave rushes along the river. You and the Masbaté turn and run from the bridge. You look back to see the gigantic wave engulf the bridge, smashing its stones into pebbles and washing the bridge downstream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to increase your speed but you are almost breathless with exhaustion already. The three howling reptile creatures reach out and drag you to the ground. You manage to beat them off but it is to no avail, for the demonic pack has now reached you. They tear you to pieces.</p>
- <p>Your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look upon Shasarak's broken features for the last time. The wall of fire is a portal to Agarash's realm. His bargain is to take Agarash's place, to be named ever after as Shasarak the Damned, and to set the demon free. The Wytch-king prefers eternal torment to the peace of death at your hands. Shasarak disappears through the wall and you hurl the shining luminescence of the Moonstone at the portal. A huge shoulder and a splayed, clawed foot emerge as you assault the wall.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>Shasarak steps through the flaming portal to a realm of eternal torment.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="598"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="598"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>No, you <!--ERRTAG-RE-383912-->cannot&ellips;<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383912--></quote> the <!--ERRTAG-RE-383986-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383986--> splutters in fury.</p>
- <p>You battle with the power of the demon as it struggles to escape, and throw the last of your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> at the flames. You must close the portal! Flames rage around the hall, struggling against the purity of the Moonstone's light. A great, yawning blackness threatens to engulf you as a hurricane of might whirls from the Moonstone and assaults the portal. You drop to your knees. You look up once more into the raging war of incandescence before slipping into unconscious oblivion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect360"><link-text>Turn to 360</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking careful aim, you release a searing ball of flame into the heavens and the leader of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-371475-->formation<!--/ERRTAG-RE-371475--> falls to the earth, screaming. This attack has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. The formation becomes disrupted and confused. An ape-like creature swoops towards you. You cannot evade combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Winged Demon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-371930-->Combat lasts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-371930--> for one round only as the creature hurtles past. If the Winged Demon loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Shadakine horseman rushes up the hill towards you. You raise your Staff and aim, attempting to shake the weariness that dulls your vision and causes you to totter.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Then add the number you have picked to your combined <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point totals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If your total is 25 or more, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If it is less than 25, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually you defeat your grotesque adversaries but it is too late! While you fought, the demon horde has reached you: you suffer a terrible death at their hands.</p>
- <p>Your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shasarak screeches as the light of the blazing Moonstone shines on him. His body writhes and he clutches himself in pain as he topples to the floor. He is still. The light of the Moonstone fades and you stoop over the body. As you do so, Shasarak suddenly twists around and sends a bolt of black fire shooting towards you from one crooked fingertip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to try to <!--ERRTAG-RE-373924-->knock<!--/ERRTAG-RE-373924--> aside the blast with the Moonstone, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to strike Shasarak with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes without incident and the following morning you and the Masbaté break camp and continue south. You cross a flat land of farms and small villages, the inhabitants of which come out of their homes and look upon you with wonder.</p>
- <p>You warn the people of the vast Shadakine Army that follows and that may have already crossed the River Dosar. Though you are glad to see that your presence has heartened so many, you realize with regret that word of your passing is sure to reach the city of Andui to the north east, where there is sure to be a Shadakine garrison. Perhaps it will be sent against you, ahead of the large army trapped north of the River Dosar or perhaps the Shadakine Wytch of that city, Mother Chowloon, sister of Mother Magri of Suhn, will come against you.</p>
- <p>Thoughts of Shadakine Wytches remind you of Tanith's plight. You wonder how she fares and whether Mother Magri has successfully drawn Tanith back to the Port of Suhn in the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-375393-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-375393--> of a Visionary, and wish to exert 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points to discover how Tanith is, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If not, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl every last drop of your power at the demon but it is not enough. He is a <!--ERRTAG-RE-389380-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-389380-->, possessing power beyond your wildest imaginings. At first he hesitates, but, seeing that you have used the last of your power, he reaches out and takes you by the neck and hurls you into the wall of fire, through the fiery portal and into the realm of damnation to join Shasarak in an eternity of flame and torment.</p>
- <p>Your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must fight Shasarak without the protection of the Moonstone. He has been weakened but by how much you cannot tell. With desperation, you charge at him. His one, hideous eye burns with poisonous malice; his ruined face is twisted with hate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you unleash a bolt of energy at the spearman. He falls, wide-eyed, to the ground in a plume of smoke. Suddenly Samu is at your side. <quote>Your aim is true,</quote> he comments before lifting his <!--ERRTAG-RE-377135-->war-horn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377135--> and trumpeting a loud call to arms.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Go now,</quote> you call to Sado and his men. <quote>I will face them.</quote></p>
- <p>The soldiers do as they are asked and you turn to face the chariots thundering across the flat ground before the rise. The Shadakine inside the chariots are still entranced by your spell and the vehicles are veering crazily. One crashes into another, destroying both. Satisfied that your spell has been successful, you turn and make to leave the rise. As you do so, a chariot suddenly swerves out of control and heads towards you. The steel blades of its wheels glitter menacingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to fire a long-range attack at the chariot, and have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you prefer to stand and face the chariot, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to try to dive out of the swerving course of the chariot, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Alas, Grey Star, there is not time for more. The bridge we have created weakens now. Step warily, for the land is beset with dangers, though there are friends there also, friends you would not expect to see&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>With these words, his voice fades completely. You pray that the Shianti have conserved enough energy to transport you back to the real world.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you issue a word of command to the ranks of Shadakine warriors and charioteers that head towards you. The warriors stop dead in their tracks, mesmerized by this powerful spell. The Shadakine in the chariots are similarly affected but their progress is not halted as their horses do not respond to this form of magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to stand and face the chariots as they approach, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to return to the main army group of the Freedom Guild and lead them into the Forest of Fernmost, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect328-1-foot" idref="sect328-1"><p>If you possess a Temeris Potion you can teleport without using any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If you are versed in the Higher Magick of Thaumaturgy you can teleport by deducting 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points from your total. To use the Dimension Door of the Moonstone to teleport, deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. (Cf. <a idref="sect12">Section 12</a>.)</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speak your mind to Sado and for once he does not argue. You mount and you and Samu ride either side of the grim-faced leader of the Freedom Guild. Sado gives the command and the entire army surges forward in pursuit of the ghostly figure of the Kazim as it heads purposefully into the night.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Freedom Guild surges forward, the ghostly figure of Kazim leading the way.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The battle that follows is long and terrible. The Freedom Guild almost fail but with Sado's iron leadership and your brave resolve they endure, although the number of casualties is high. The Kazim reclaims its heart of stone, slaying Mother Chowloon, the Shadakine Wytch who bore it. As she dies, much of the fighting fury and ferocity that filled the Shadakine, fades. The Army of the Freedom Guild senses the Shadakine's loss of morale and press home their advantage. Soon, they have beaten the much larger force into a full-scale retreat. The entire <!--ERRTAG-RE-380951-->Shadakine Army<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380951--> heads north. Sado leads his army in pursuit, turning the retreat into a rout. It is vital that the Shadakine Army does not reach Shadaki, for there they would find new leadership under Shasarak's hand. They are still a large army and with Shasarak to lead them they could turn the tables once again.</p>
- <p>The Army of the Freedom Guild pursues the fleeing Shadakine Army across much of the Shadakine Empire. The Shadakine find no place to hide, for all the cities of the Empire are in open revolt. Each Kazim has reclaimed its heart and slain the Shadakine Wytch that ruled each city. During the four days of the pursuit you are not required to exert any energy or use any of your Magical Powers and you regain 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and 9 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Constantly harrying the ever-dwindling Shadakine force, the Army of the Freedom Guild crosses the great Kalamar River and approaches the Mountains of Lara.</p>
- <p>The Mountains of Lara contain the infamous Morn Pass. It was through this pass that the Shadakine first invaded the provinces of the south. It is the last barrier between you and the fortress city of Shadaki. With growing dread you realize that the time of your final battle with Shasarak is fast approaching. With his armies scattered or destroyed, it only remains for you to challenge him yourself and ensure that the land remains free. Your trepidation is coupled with suspicion. Shasarak has many powers at his disposal. Why then has he not used them to challenge Sado's tiny army, much reduced in numbers? Perhaps there is some other reason why he does not bring his full might to bear?</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-382765-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-382765--> of Thaumaturgy, possess a Temeris Potion, or wish to use the Dimension Door of the Moonstone to teleport into the city of Shadaki and challenge Shasarak now, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.<a id="sect328-1" idref="sect328-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to continue with the Army of the Freedom Guild through the Morn Pass, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you reach the camp, you see that the army has been delayed; not by the difficulty of moving such a large group of men quickly, but because of the Forest of Fernmost itself. Many of the Guildsmen regard it with dread, muttering darkly among themselves.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior stops and releases his spear like a javelin, aimed at your heart. Suddenly Samu knocks you to the ground. He has saved your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect331-1-foot" idref="sect331-1"><p>Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your trained eye quickly perceives that many unusual plants grow in the forest, some of which are of immense use to your Theurgical powers. The army is well equipped and you are able to borrow many vials from a healer. While Sado and his men watch for the approach of the Shadakine Army, you pass the day searching for various herbs and preparing potions. It is evening by the time you have finished. You have the choice of making and keeping any of the following items for future use. Remember that your Herb Pouch can hold up to <!--ERRTAG-RE-384687-->eight items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-384687-->, and any other potions may be stored in your Backpack.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Potions of Laumspur (Each Potion restores up to 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed before or after combat. One potion equals one dose.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Alether (Increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points when swallowed before an attack.)</li>
- <li>2 <!--ERRTAG-RE-403018-->Tarama Seeds<!--/ERRTAG-RE-403018--> (Swallowing one seed enables a wizard to use his Wizard's Staff or Magical Power without losing any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. They take up no room in your Herb Pouch or Backpack.)<a id="sect331-1" idref="sect331-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- <li>1 Calacena Potion (A useful aid to the casting of spells of Enchantment.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Mustow (Creates a foul, choking gas.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Temeris (Allows a wizard to teleport to any place he desires.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Ezeran Acid (A metal-eating acid.)</li>
- </ul>
- <choice idref="sect355">If you have some <!--ERRTAG-RE-403665-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RE-403665-->, <link-text>turn to 355</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect359">If not, <link-text>turn to 359</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the cost of 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you summon a wind of your own design. It blows through the <!--ERRTAG-RE-386152-->treetops<!--/ERRTAG-RE-386152--> of the Forest of Fernmost and sends the dense cloud above swirling across the sky. The cloud disperses to reveal the moon once more.</p>
- <p><quote>My thanks,</quote> Sado says with a grin. You turn your attention to the Shadakine Army once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call on your own elemental powers and, at the cost of 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, concentrate on a stretch of flat land that lies in the path of the oncoming chariots. At first nothing happens. Then the earth trembles and small cracks appear in the ground. Stones crumble and the chariot horses of the Shadakine neigh with fright. A low rumbling sounds from below the ground.</p>
- <p><quote>Away!</quote> you cry to Sado and his men. <quote>My work is done here. The Shadakine are doomed.</quote></p>
- <p>The soldiers do as they are commanded. Suddenly a vast chasm opens in the land. The Shadakine scream as they are swallowed by the pit, falling to their deaths far below. You and the men of the Freedom Guild leave the rise and go to rejoin the main army.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blast is totally absorbed by the Moonstone but its light is extinguished. Shasarak screams at you like a caged animal. He climbs to his feet, his Staff held high, ready to attack. You bring up your own Staff to fend off the blow you know must come.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run from the warrior, who stops and throws his spear. It thuds into your back and you drop to your knees, crying out in pain before falling facedown in the dirt.</p>
- <p>Your life and your adventure end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect336-1-foot" idref="sect336-1"><p>Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Alchemist's eye tells you that many unusual plants grow in the forest, some of which are of great use. You borrow some empty vials from a healer in the army's employ. While Sado and his men watch for the approach of the Shadakine Army, you pass the day searching for various herbs and plants and preparing potions. It is evening by the time you have finished. You have the choice of making and keeping any of the following items for future use. Remember that your Herb Pouch <!--ERRTAG-RE-389054-->can hold up to eight items, and any other potions may be stored<!--/ERRTAG-RE-389054--> in your Backpack.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Potions of Laumspur (Each Potion restores up to 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed before or after combat. One potion equals one dose.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Alether (Increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points when swallowed before an attack.)</li>
- <li>2 <!--ERRTAG-RE-407417-->Tarama Seeds<!--/ERRTAG-RE-407417--> (Swallowing one seed enables a wizard to use his Wizard's Staff or Magical Power without losing any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. They take up no room in your Herb Pouch or Backpack.)<a id="sect336-1" idref="sect336-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- <li>1 Calacena Potion (A useful aid to the casting of spells of Enchantment.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Mustow (Creates a foul, choking gas.)</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Ezeran Acid (A metal-eating acid.)</li>
- </ul>
- <choice idref="sect355">If you have some <!--ERRTAG-RE-408019-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RE-408019-->, <link-text>turn to 355</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect359">If not, <link-text>turn to 359</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You mount and ride with all speed to the site of the battle at the northern edge of the camp. You arrive to see Sado with a hundred cavalry upon a low rise overlooking the battle. As many as a thousand Shadakine foot soldiers are charging towards you.</p>
- <p><quote>Good morning to you Grey Star,</quote> Sado calls. <quote>The morning begins with battle. Have a care to stay by me, for you know not the strategy I have in mind and you must be sure to move when I do.</quote></p>
- <p>You glance behind the line of Sado's cavalrymen and see a line of soldiers armed with crossbows, busily loading their weapons. The warriors are kneeling to conceal their presence. When the Shadakine have drawn but two hundred paces away, Sado barks a command. At his word, the line of horsemen parts to allow those bearing crossbows to step forward. Sado shouts again and the crossbowmen release a deadly <!--ERRTAG-RE-391212-->hail of arrows that flies<!--/ERRTAG-RE-391212--> towards the Shadakine host. Many fall dead in the face of this lethal volley. But incredibly the survivors continue.</p>
- <p><quote>These Shadakine are strong of heart. Brave but foolish,</quote> Sado murmurs.</p>
- <p>The crossbowmen reload and release another shower of arrows. As the bolts find their targets, many more Shadakine fall dead. More than half their number have now fallen. You look back to the camp: it is still a chaotic mass of rushing men, trying to order themselves and leave. Samu and his Masbaté have already left in good order but they have the advantage of smaller numbers and a strong leader to command them.</p>
- <p>The Shadakine continue to advance, their faces set with grim determination. There is no time for the crossbowmen to reload their weapons before the remainder of the Shadakine, almost five hundred men, fall upon the Guild's ranks. At Sado's command, the cavalry charges down the rise at the Shadakine. A furious <!--ERRTAG-RE-392261-->mêlée<!--/ERRTAG-RE-392261--> ensues but the Shadakine maintain the upper hand and the cavalry are forced to retreat in disorder. It will not be long before the Shadakine are fighting against the bulk of the army of the Freedom Guild, who are still attempting to flee into the forest. Looking to the distant hills, you see the reason for this early raid by the Shadakine. A line of Shadakine chariots has appeared. From earlier encounters with the Shadakine, you know that sharpened blades adorn the wheels of the chariots. You shudder to think of the harm they could inflict on the disordered lines of the retiring Freedom Guild.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-393155-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-393155--> of Physiurgy, and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points using it against the chariots of the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you are versed on the <!--ERRTAG-RA-393155-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-393155--> of Telergy and wish to expend 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points using it against the Shadakine, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to lead the main army group of the Freedom Guild into the forest of Fernmost, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You go into a trance state, calling to the elemental plane for aid. You tell the elemental spirits that dwell there of your need for light. Deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for your use of this Magical Power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish for the aid of the element of earth, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish for the aid of the element of water, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you wish for the aid of the element of air, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish for the aid of the element of fire, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Overcoming your fear you charge, your Staff exploding into flame. The tall shapes are towering rocks with stony faces resembling humans'. You cast magical flames at all seven of the stone creatures in a frenzy of energy, but the attack has no effect. With a great roar, you are assaulted on all sides by a terrible force that seizes your brain. You are flung into a deep, dark void from which you never return.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>This shall be done,</quote> comes the reply. <quote>Look into the Moonstone and your wish shall be granted.</quote></p>
- <p>You obey and gaze into the stone. Gradually the colour of the stone begins to change. It darkens until it contains a grey mist. The heart of the mist clears and a hazy image appears. You are looking upon a huge, grim city that overlooks the sea. Its looming walls are built of black stone and granite from the mountains of Jazer. The image shifts and you feel as if you are being drawn into the city with its tall, crenellated walls and towers. You guess that this is the fortress city of Shadaki, Shasarak's home, and the heart of the Shadakine Empire. The scene shifts to a high tower, and suddenly you are looking down into a wide, round hall, full of darkness and <!--ERRTAG-RE-396083-->foreboding<!--/ERRTAG-RE-396083-->. At one end of the hall is a throne, rudely carved from stone; at the other end is a wall of fire. Kneeling before the wall of fire is the crippled figure of Shasarak, who looks as if he is pleading with someone. A pair of eyes stares out from the wall of fire. Suddenly the picture fades.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A strong wind begins to blow. The dense cloud in the sky begins to move and soon the moon is revealed once more.</p>
- <p><quote>This is your doing?</quote> asks Sado, amazed.</p>
- <p>You nod, blushing with pride, and return your attention to the Shadakine Army.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to the Morn Pass and cautiously enter the long, barren trail that runs between the mountains. Your senses scream a warning at you; every nerve is taut. Looking down, you see that the Moonstone has turned black and you sense a terrible evil, sorcerous in nature. The hairs on the back of your neck rise and your blood runs like ice in your veins. Ignorant of the torment you suffer, Sado looks over to you, a broad smile splitting his face. His eyes shine with the joy of his victory over the Shadakine. If only he knew what it is you must yet face. You hope his confidence in you is not misplaced.</p>
- <p>A faint tremor shakes the ground. Horses rear and whinny their distress as the land cracks and splits. All eyes look in horror at the shapes now heaving out of the ground, twisting blindly with skeletal claws outstretched. Humans, horses, all manner of beasts, crawl out into the light from their graves beneath the pass. Shasarak, the master Necromancer, has summoned the legions of the dead that lie beneath this old battlefield. Hundreds of gnarled shapes rise up, blocking each end of the pass. The army is trapped and you with it. A skeleton shape stands before you, its frozen smile leering savagely. It has a rusty sword in its hand and leans forward to strike.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The twisted shapes of the undead heave up from the cracked earth.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="637"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="637"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Skeleton Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride among the army camp, calling to all. <quote>Follow, follow. We go to the Fernmost. I will lead you there. There is nothing to fear.</quote></p>
- <p>Many of the Guildsmen nearby shake their heads. The legends of the forest are steeped in legend and dark mystery and the soldiers are filled with a <!--ERRTAG-RE-399152-->superstitious<!--/ERRTAG-RE-399152--> fear of it. You look around in desperation, willing someone to follow you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The light from your Staff is making you an easy target for Shadakine crossbowmen and you decide that you might be better off without it. The fighting is coming closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to head towards the sound of the fighting, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to try to find Sado, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Staff clashes against Staff and the hall is filled with flame as you fight. Agarash's unholy joy ripples through the room in peals of mocking laughter, the black, fathomless eyes following every move. You are locked in a duel with your <!--ERRTAG-RE-415215-->arch-enemy<!--/ERRTAG-RE-415215-->.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wytch-king Shasarak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a foolish decision, for the army is forced to advance out of the forest later anyway, with a raging fire at their backs and a ravening horde before them. They are panicky and disordered, and in no state to fight the Shadakine warriors. Though the Kazim retrieves the stone that is its heart and kills the Shadakine Wytch that once owned it, the loss of their leader is not a sufficient blow to their morale to stop the Shadakine from continuing their battle with the Freedom League. The ranks of Sado's men are completely decimated and, though you are the last to fall, you are slain by the triumphant Shadakine horde, and your head is taken to the fortress city of Shadaki as a gift to the Wytch-king, Shasarak.</p>
- <p>You have failed in your quest; your adventure ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With valiant cries, the entire force of the Masbaté tribesmen charges from the forest, running to the aid of Sado, who is <!--ERRTAG-RE-401785-->beleaguered<!--/ERRTAG-RE-401785--> upon the hill. The Masbaté have managed to stay ordered and controlled under Samu's command, despite the surprise of the Shadakine night attack, and their charge is ferocious and deadly. The Shadakine are swept back and away from the hill. Soon they have fallen into a full retreat and the men of the Freedom Guild give a loud cheer.</p>
- <p>While Sado organizes his men into battle formations, and sends couriers dashing through the forest with messages for the rest of the army, you stare out at the Shadakine host, trying to guess their next move. A cloud drifts across the moon's face, blotting out its silver light and plunging you into darkness once more. Sado curses. <quote>Grey Star, is there nothing you can do to bring us light?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p><quote>I cannot command the sun to rise before dawn,</quote> you reply bitterly. If only there were some way of fulfilling Sado's request. You are also anxious to see the movements of the Shadakine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you possess the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to use it, expending 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-403110-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-403110--> of Physiurgy, and wish to expend 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point using it, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you do not have either of these Magical Powers, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We are only able to send you to the Lissan Plain, the north-western province of the Shadakine Empire (see the <a idref="map">map</a><!--ERRTAG-DE-424345/-->). This was once the domain of the Masbaté tribe, warrior nomads of great prowess and strength. It was Shasarak who brought doom to these once-great people, when the Shadakine Empire was first won. In a terrible war, hordes of Shadakine warriors pursued the Masbaté across the plains in their great war chariots, led by the Wytch-king himself. The Masbaté were able to resist the Shadakine, despite overwhelming odds, until Shasarak summoned the demon plague. Faced with such an assault, the Masbaté were unable to resist and an entire race was wiped from the face of the world. The demons still roam the plains, and no one dares go there. The vast expanse of the Lissan Plain was once rich and fertile. Now, none may benefit from it, save for the scavenging packs of hell beasts that roam there.</quote></p>
- <p>His voice has begun to grow very faint.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your call for aid is answered by the element of fire in the only way it is able. Sheets of flame spring up all around you, catching the dry brush and foliage of the forest in seconds. The bright light of the fires provides an excellent target for the Shadakine crossbowmen. A hail of arrows arcs towards you.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shasarak's torment is written in deep lines upon his ruined face. The wall of fire is a portal to Agarash's realm. Shasarak's bargain is to change places with Agarash, setting the demon free and enduring Agarash's banishment for all time. He chooses eternal torment before eternal death.</p>
- <p>As Shasarak disappears through the wall, Agarash calls out with glee, <quote>Free, free at last!</quote> The eyes disappear and a vast, flaming shoulder moves out from the wall. You glimpse a wing and a clawed foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to use the last of your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to attack the <!--ERRTAG-RE-420935-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-420935--> as he steps through the portal, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect356">If you wish to use the last of your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to attempt to close the portal, <link-text>turn to 356</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect351">
- <meta><title>351</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A feeling of panic surges through the men. Sado looks aghast. The army will be forced out of the forest and into the jaws of the Shadakine to be slaughtered, for the Freedom Guild lacks sufficient numbers to face the Shadakine in an all-out assault. Just as you think you are facing certain doom, a vast shape immersed in a pallid, yellow glow strides out from amongst the burning trees. It is a Kazim. Many of Sado's men shout out in alarm and horror, thinking that they are being attacked from the rear but you know this is not the case.</p>
- <p><quote>Do not worry,</quote> you assure Sado. <quote>This is a Kazim. It fights with us.</quote></p>
- <p>The stony creature, measuring twelve feet high at least, moves through the parting ranks of Guildsmen and stops at the edge of the forest. It is alone; the other Kazim must already be on their way to the other Shadakine Wytches in the pursuit of their hearts. The Kazim at the edge of the forest turns its head this way and that, searching. When it has located that which it seeks, it moves forward at great speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to tell Sado to command his army to follow the Kazim, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to remain in the forest, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect352">
- <meta><title>352</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse quickly covers the miles of your long, desperate ride. The demon host has not caught you, although it is not far away. Looking to the east you see great clouds of dust hanging in the air. These are the tell-tale signs of an army on the move. It must be the rear of the Shadakine column approaching the bridge at Lanzi. You double your speed. Now you can hear the cries of battle and the ringing of steel. You gallop around the edge of the town of Lanzi on its western side and emerge close to the River Dosar. Reining in the horse for a moment, you stop and look along the line of the river. A mile away you can see the bridge. The Masbaté still hold it but they fight a desperate battle against a huge force of Shadakine warriors.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- <description>The Masbaté fight a desperate battle against a huge force of Shadakine.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="616"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="616"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With a wild yell, you head towards the battle, the demon pack baying at your heels. You reach the Shadakine force that fights at the bridge and, rushing up to an officer, you indicate the demon horde behind you. He curses and orders some of his men to turn and face this new threat. He orders you to the rear of the army group. <quote>Alert Warward Gatakhan,</quote> he shouts after you. <quote>He must bring forward more men.</quote></p>
- <p>You nod your head, although, of course, you have no intention of obeying the order. Your sole objective is to cross the river and tell the Masbaté that they may join the Army of the Freedom Guild in the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-409496-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RE-409496--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it to teleport across the river and have 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you wish to try to swim across the river, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to try to fight your way across the bridge, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect353">
- <meta><title>353</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a stunning display of battle skills, you hack a path of blazing, magical fire through the Shadakine ranks. On the bridge you can hear the cheering of the Masbaté as you wreak terrible havoc among your foes. They urge you on, their cries growing louder as you draw nearer. Suddenly your horse is cut from under you and you throw yourself clear and on to the stone bridge to run the last steps towards the Masbaté. They rush forward to protect your flanks. You are safe. Samu rushes to meet you. <quote>Grey Star, that was magnificent&ellips;</quote> he begins.</p>
- <p><quote>No time&ellips; no time,</quote> you pant. <quote>Sound the retreat. We must flee. See? I have brought the demon plague.</quote></p>
- <p>It is as you say. Even now, across the river, you can see a wild, screaming mass as the demon horde battles with the Shadakine. Samu nods and springs into action. He sounds a battle horn and the Masbaté retire. The Shadakine cannot pursue while the demon host fights at their back. However, you must destroy the bridge to prevent pursuit should the Shadakine, whose entire army numbers in thousands defeat the demon plague too soon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you have the Magical Power of Elementalism, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-411499-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-411499--> of Physiurgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you are versed in the <!--ERRTAG-RA-411499-->Higher Magick<!--/ERRTAG-RA-411499--> of Thaumaturgy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <!--ERRTAG-AD-423745--><choice idref="sect175">If you do not possess any of the above Powers, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice><!--/ERRTAG-AD-423745-->
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect354">
- <meta><title>354</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dawn is breaking when the alarm is raised and you are alerted to an attack on the camp. Swiftly you rise, taking up your Staff and rushing outside. There is great clamour everywhere. Men are rushing in all directions, still donning their armour. You rush towards Sado's tent. He is not there but an attendant tells you that a group of Shadakine has attempted an attack. Sado is already at the scene of the battle with a unit of soldiers, hand picked to fight a rearguard action, while the remainder of the army retreats to the Forest of Fernmost. This unit was chosen by Sado himself last night in readiness for just such an eventuality. You are sure that the Shadakine attack cannot be from the large army you trapped on the other side of the River Dosar; it can only be the garrison from Andui.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to go to the scene of the battle, where Sado fights a rearguard action, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to lead the bulk of the army into the Forest of Fernmost, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect355">
- <meta><title>355</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect355-1-foot" idref="sect355-1"><p>It appears that for every Phinomel Pod that you possess and wish to throw into the Leafwater pool, you may permanently raise your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 1 when using your Wizard's Staff. Remember to delete these Phinomel Pods from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see a deep pool of greenish liquid called Leafwater, a strange and unique plant. When <!--ERRTAG-RE-432850-->Phinomel Pods<!--/ERRTAG-RE-432850--> are cast into the pool the watery substance is transformed. For every pod you cast into it, add 1 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when you dip a weapon into it. You may affect your Wizard's Staff in this way.<a id="sect355-1" idref="sect355-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect359"><link-text>Turn to 359</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect356">
- <meta><title>356</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the fury of your last desperate attack at the portal, attempting to close it.</p>
- <p><quote>NO!</quote> the demon thunders. <quote>Do not&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>You battle on as the demon struggles to escape with all its power. You must close the portal and tear down the wall. Flame rages around the hall, striving against the purity of the Moonstone's light. A yawning blackness threatens to engulf you as a hurricane of might swirls out from the Moonstone and assaults the portal, a doorway to damnation. You fall to your knees and look up into the raging wall of incandescence before slipping into unconsciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect360"><link-text>Turn to 360</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect357">
- <meta><title>357</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are seen by a group of Shadakine crossbowmen and, as the only bearer of light for miles around, present an easy target. Before you can move again, another hail of arrows flies towards you. This time their aim is better. You fall to the ground, a mass of feathered shafts protruding from your body.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect358">
- <meta><title>358</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With all the speed you can muster, you rush towards the fray. When you arrive, all is in darkness and confusion. You hear swords clashing in the shadows at the edge of the forest but you cannot see who is fighting whom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to expend 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point to cast a light with your Staff, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to head towards the sound of the fighting, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to continue through the forest and try to find Sado, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect359">
- <meta><title>359</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the army laden with useful aids for your struggle. They seem to be more relaxed about the Forest of Fernmost, although you still sense a strange presence somewhere in the centre of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect360">
- <meta><title>360</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake to see the face of Tanith looking into yours. You sit up with a jolt. You are lying in a bed in a tall tower. <quote>The portal&ellips; Agarash&ellips; is he&ellips;?</quote> you stammer.</p>
- <p>Tanith smiles. <quote>All vanquished,</quote> she replies. <quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-432183-->The Demonlord Agarash<!--/ERRTAG-RE-432183--> and his portal of fire have gone and Shasarak with them. You have triumphed, Grey Star. We are saved.</quote></p>
- <p>With a wild laugh you leap from the bed and hug Tanith with joy. You have saved your people. <quote>Come,</quote> she says, leading you to a doorway. It opens on to a balcony that overlooks a large square in the centre of the city of Shadaki. There you look upon a huge crowd. They let out a thunderous cheer as they see you.</p>
- <p>Later you retire to the chamber. Standing there are Sado of the Long Knife and Samu, the Masbaté King. You clasp their outstretched hands, eyes brimming with tears of happiness. You grin furiously, glad to see that they are alive. A wave of exultant relief runs through you as you receive their grateful thanks and congratulations. They tell you that the Shadakine have fled back to the Sadi Desert. All the cities of the land are free capitals as before. The long task of rebuilding has already begun and all sing your praise to the furthest comers of what was once the Shadakine Empire. They have proclaimed you their ruler, the Wizard Regent of the Free Peoples, for their faith and trust in your wisdom and courage is unshakable.</p>
- <p>Hail! Wizard Grey Star, Shianti Hero and Saviour.</p>
- <p><a idref="passing">The Passing of the Shianti</a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <!-- Backmatter -->
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="passing">
- <meta><title>The Passing of the Shianti</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="passing-1-foot" idref="passing-1"><p>This epilogue to the <cite>Grey Star</cite> series was included in <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 7</cite>.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>And so it was that the shame of the Shianti was absolved. With the defeat of the Wytch-king, Shasarak, the renegade Shianti Master, the Shadakine Empire he had built fell. The Shadakine people fled back to their former home in the Sadi Desert, and Grey Star&emdash;the champion of the Shianti cause&emdash;was proclaimed <quote>Wizard Regent</quote> of the free peoples of the old empire, to oversee a time of rebirth and liberty. The only Shadakine who did not return to the Sadi Desert was the Lady Tanith. She and Grey Star were soon married, <!--ERRTAG-RE-442388-->as many foretold they would be<!--/ERRTAG-RE-442388-->, to form the founding line of a magiocracy destined to rule the new confederation of free states formed from the ashes of the old empire. For the Shianti themselves a higher destiny dawned. The Goddess Ishir came to them on the Isle of Lorn and took them up to the Plane of Light. Their reward was to dwell as immortals by her side and in her service in peace and serenity.</p>
- <p>The Wizard Grey Star saw them once before they departed and many fond and sad farewells were exchanged. To Grey Star was bequeathed the nature of true Shianti wisdom, the last of their ancient magical secrets which only a lifetime's study would unlock from the hundreds of dusty volumes, scrolls, and magical <!--ERRTAG-RE-435390-->artefacts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-435390-->. The Moonstone was given into the care of the Shianti and taken with them into the Plane of Light, for still its power was too great to remain on Magnamund.</p>
- <p>Grey Star then returned to his people. Sado of the Long Knife was made general of the army, King Samu had his lands in the Lissan Plain restored to him, and Urik the Wise of the Kundi peoples was summoned to act as advisor to the Wizard Regent and Lady Tanith the Wytch-queen. Despite his newfound responsibilities and duties, Grey Star looked forward to a time of hope and happiness. In this far corner of Magnamund, at least for now, peace reigned.</p>
- <p>And so ends the chronicle of the first quest of the Wizard <strong>Grey Star</strong>.<a id="passing-1" idref="passing-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Shadakine Empire</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Paul Bonner</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Christopher Lundgren</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acpowers.gif" width="386" height="279" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="achrbpch.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Calculate your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> based on the weapon that you are using.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>If using your Wizard's Staff, note the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you wish to expend.</li>
- <li>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li><!--ERRTAG-RE-422772-->Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a><!--/ERRTAG-RE-422772-->.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and <!--ERRTAG-RE-422906-->cross-reference<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422906--> to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. GS indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Grey Star.)</li>
- <li>Multiply the enemy's lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by the number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points used.</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only evade combat when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Grey Star loses <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-2248-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>THE WORLD OF LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote><cite>The World of Lone Wolf</cite></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-2248-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-2167-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>climax to your epic struggle</quote> with <quote>climax of your epic struggle</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-2167-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="coming">Of the Coming of Grey Star</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-6265-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>new found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6265-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-DE-17373-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> at the front of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-17373-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-17447-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> If you run out of space, you can copy out the chart or have it photocopied.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-17447-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-17924-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> on the last page of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-17924-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) Replaced <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote> and <quote>quarterstaff yet</quote> with <quote>quarterstaff, yet</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RA-21665-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>lesser magicks</quote> with <quote>Lesser Magicks</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21665-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-21787-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical powers</quote> with <quote>Magical Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-21787-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-21860-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magicks</quote> with <quote>Higher Magicks</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-21860-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-31313-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-31313-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-33577-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>physiurgy</quote> with <quote>Physiurgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33577-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-23142-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>This power allows</quote> with <quote>This Power allows</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-23142-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-23590-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>choose this power</quote> with <quote>choose this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-23590-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-24234-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Enchantment</quote> with <quote>Power of Enchantment</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-24234-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-25345-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of elemental magic</quote> with <quote>Power of elemental magic</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-25345-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-26427-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Power of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26427-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-26820-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>use of alchemy</quote> with <quote>use of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-26820-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-27087-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Power of Alchemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27087-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-27855-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27855-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-28331-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>power of divination</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-28331-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-29050-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>This power bestows</quote> with <quote>This Power bestows</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-29050-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-30231-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power permits</quote> with <quote>this Power permits</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-30231-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-32304-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Thaumaturgy</quote> with <quote>Power of Thaumaturgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-32304-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-33410-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Telergy is the power</quote> with <quote>Telergy is the Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33410-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-33690-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>resist this power</quote> with <quote>resist this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33690-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-35886-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Theurgy</quote> with <quote>Power of Theurgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-35886-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-36868-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of a visionary</quote> with <quote>Power of a Visionary</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-36868-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>, <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote>, <quote>vial</quote> with <quote>Vial</quote> within the Herb Pouch contents list, <quote>notes but</quote> with <quote>notes, but</quote> and <quote>Shianti and</quote> with <quote>Shianti, and</quote>. Added <quote>Mark these 4 items in your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</quote> after the Alchemy equipment list, as in the other books.<!--ERRTAG-DE-44046-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> at the beginning of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-44046-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-43547-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Alchemy or Theurgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-43547-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-49420-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>It counts as 1 item</quote> with <quote>It counts as one item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-49420-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-51332-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-51332-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-53701-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>on the page after the <!--a idref="random"-->Random Number Table<!--/a--></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-53701-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sage">Sage Advice</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-55149-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher and lesser magicks</quote> with <quote>Higher and Lesser magicks</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55149-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-55363-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>choose the powers</quote> with <quote>choose the Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55363-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-55758-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>confrton</quote> with <quote>confront</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-55758-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Added closing quote characters after the second and third paragraphs.<!--ERRTAG-RE-56361-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>excitement. the</quote> with <quote>excitement. The</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-56361-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-60653-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60653-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-64078-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>satety</quote> with <quote>safety</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-64078-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-70019-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>empty vial</quote> with <quote>empty Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-70019-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect9">9</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-68217-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-68217-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-68510-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>have versed</quote> with <quote>are versed</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-68510-ITEM--> Moved the two first choices to the two last positions.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-69440-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-69440-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-69497-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Theurgey</quote> with <quote>Theurgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-69497-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-70005-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-70005-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-75078-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Phinomel pods</quote> with <quote>Phinomel Pods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-75078-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-71597-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-71597-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-72083-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Dimension door</quote> with <quote>Dimension Door</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72083-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-74444-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Thaumaturgy, deduct</quote> with <quote>Thaumaturgy, you may deduct</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-74444-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-74992-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Moonstone, deduct</quote> with <quote>Moonstone, you may deduct</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-74992-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-76088-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Freedom guild</quote> with <quote>Freedom Guild</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-76088-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-74659-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>mid-day</quote> with <quote>midday</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-74659-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-75069-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>birdge</quote> with <quote>bridge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75069-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-75351-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-75351-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-78072-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wish to ask</quote> with <quote>wish to use the Power of Theurgy and ask</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78072-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-81194-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Phinomel pods</quote> with <quote>Phinomel Pods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-81194-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-78389-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78389-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-78630-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-78630-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-79497-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-79497-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-79718-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-79718-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-84570-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>delete 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points</quote> with <quote>deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-84570-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-80607-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>life-less</quote> with <quote>lifeless</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-80607-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-81876-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81876-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-85768-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85768-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-85858-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85858-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-86027-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-86027-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-88666-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 coil of Rope</quote> with <quote>Coil of Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88666-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-88761-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Sword and Sheath</quote> with <quote>Sword and Sheath</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88761-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-88850-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Spear</quote> with <quote>Spear</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88850-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-88949-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Dagger and Sheath</quote> with <quote>Dagger and Sheath</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88949-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-89045-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Water Bottle</quote> with <quote>Water Bottle</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-89045-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-89223-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Tinder box</quote> with <quote>Tinderbox</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-89223-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-95335-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Torch counts as 1 Backpack Item</quote> with <quote>each Torch counts as one Backpack Item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-95335-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-96853-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>evade combat <!--link-text-->turn</quote> with <quote>evade combat, <!--link-text-->turn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96853-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-93131-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93131-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-93206-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Coil of Rope</quote> with <quote>Coil of Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93206-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-93297-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Water Bottle</quote> with <quote>Water Bottle</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93297-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-93434-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Tinderbox</quote> with <quote>Tinderbox</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93434-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-93518-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Sword</quote> with <quote>Sword</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93518-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-93616-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Masbaté Battle Horn</quote> with <quote>Masbaté Battle Horn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93616-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-100128-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>high magick of Necromancy</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick of Necromancy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100128-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-102090-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102090-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-103438-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pear</quote> with <quote>spear</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-103438-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-97332-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you. they</quote> with <quote>you. They</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97332-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-97489-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>a pestle and mortar</quote> with <quote>a Pestle and Mortar</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97489-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-97562-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>empty vial</quote> with <quote>empty Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97562-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-97811-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>saltpetre</quote> with <quote>Saltpetre</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97811-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-97899-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>sulphur</quote> with <quote>Sulphur</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97899-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-98139-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>The empty vials</quote> with <quote>The empty Vials</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98139-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-98396-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Zakutsk flower</quote> with <quote>Zakutsk Flower</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98396-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-98460-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Demeril root</quote> with <quote>Demeril Root</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98460-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-98589-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pestle and Mortar are Backpack Items</quote> with <quote>Pestle and Mortar and the Tinderbox are Backpack Items,</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98589-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-98667-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the vials</quote> with <quote>the Vials</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98667-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-97461-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wil</quote> with <quote>will</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97461-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-104268-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Pestle and Mortar</quote> with <quote>Pestle and Mortar</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-104268-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-104342-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>1 Tinderbox</quote> with <quote>Tinderbox</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-104342-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-103788-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>neither you nor Tanith have</quote> with <quote>neither you nor Tanith has</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-103788-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>feet away. The home</quote> with <quote>feet away. &lsquot;The home</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-101957-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>persectuion</quote> with <quote>persecution</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101957-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-102291-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>dematerilize</quote> with <quote>dematerialize</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-102291-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-104197-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>warior</quote> with <quote>warrior</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-104197-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-107112-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>mightly</quote> with <quote>mighty</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107112-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-114546-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Demon Lord, Agarash</quote> with <quote>Demonlord Agarash</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114546-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-115083-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you wish</quote> with <quote>If you have 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point and wish</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-115083-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-116275-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Phinomel pods</quote> with <quote>Phinomel Pods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-116275-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-111466-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ceatures</quote> with <quote>creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111466-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-112181-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>despatching</quote> with <quote>dispatching</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-112181-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-113025-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>surrrounds</quote> with <quote>surrounds</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-113025-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-114669-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114669-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-114759-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114759-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-114926-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-114926-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-117359-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-117359-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-118216-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Agarash's</quote> with <quote>Agarashi's</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-118216-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-126335-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>a Special Item, which may</quote> with <quote>an item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. It may</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126335-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-126461-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>or your Herb Pouch</quote> with <quote>or in your Herb Pouch</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126461-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-126532-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>empty vials</quote> with <quote>empty Vials</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-126532-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-119885-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Intinctively</quote> with <quote>Instinctively</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-119885-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-120749-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120749-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Made the last sentence a paragraph of its own.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-125607-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>your power</quote> with <quote>your Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125607-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-126293-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126293-ITEM--> Moved the third choice up to the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-131835-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Neither you nor Tanith have</quote> with <quote>Neither you nor Tanith has</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-131835-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-133240-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>stone. and</quote> with <quote>stone, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133240-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-133533-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wierd</quote> with <quote>weird</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133533-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-133591-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>toadbeasts</quote> with <quote>toad beasts</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133591-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-134307-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-134307-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-135531-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>jubliant</quote> with <quote>jubilant</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135531-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-136294-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>incandesence</quote> with <quote>incandescence</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136294-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-145050-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-145050-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-146949-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>reptillian</quote> with <quote>reptilian</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-146949-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-156348-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>empty vial</quote> with <quote>empty Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-156348-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-150455-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-150455-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-AD-155987-ITEM--> Added a fourth choice <quote>If you do not possess any of the above Powers, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; <!--link-text-->turn to 175<!--/link-text-->.</quote> (cf. <a idref="sect280">Section 280</a>).<!--/ERRTAG-AD-155987-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-154803-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>strenghtening</quote> with <quote>strenghening</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-154803-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-154907-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>waves of sorcery</quote> with <quote>waves of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-154907-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-155226-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>it's clawed hand</quote> with <quote>its clawed hand</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-155226-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-158247-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>materialzed</quote> with <quote>materialized</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-158247-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-161378-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>semi-circle</quote> with <quote>semicircle</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-161378-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-163353-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fast flowing</quote> with <quote>fast-flowing</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-163353-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-167746-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crowd of demons are</quote> with <quote>crowd of demons is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-167746-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-177379-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>enchantment</quote> with <quote>Enchantment</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-177379-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-176416-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical Power</quote> with <quote>Magical Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-176416-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-178015-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>powers</quote> with <quote>Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-178015-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-178481-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178481-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-186552-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>life forces</quote> with <quote>life-forces</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186552-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-189663-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189663-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-198908-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>arch enemy</quote> with <quote>arch-enemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198908-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-194076-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>balustraded gallerys</quote> with <quote>balustraded galleries</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194076-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-196102-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>group of demons are</quote> with <quote>group of demons is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-196102-ITEM--> Moved the illustration that was located in this Section to <a idref="sect139">Section 139</a>, as the event it depicts is described there.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-204438-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>The horde stop</quote> with <quote>The horde stops</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-204438-ITEM--> Moved the illustration that was located in <a idref="sect137">Section 137</a> here, as the event it depicts is described here. Replaced the illustration caption <quote>You hurl a cascading rain of magical fire on to the head of the demonic horde below.</quote> with <quote>Your heart misses a beat as a huge pair of monstrous eyes appears within the flames of the portal.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-198682-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>large, reptilian</quote> with <quote>large reptilian</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-198682-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-199774-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199774-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-200236-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-200236-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect147">147</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-203271-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203271-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-203423-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>small, black</quote> with <quote>small black</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203423-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-209430-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-209430-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-209585-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-209585-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-214104-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-214104-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-214305-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-214305-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-215280-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-215280-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-216064-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Prophecy</quote> with <quote>Power of Prophecy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216064-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-219129-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-219129-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-230977-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Demon lord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-230977-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-224239-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the demon horde are</quote> with <quote>the demon horde is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-224239-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-224609-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-224609-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-224962-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>out-rider</quote> with <quote>outrider</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-224962-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-225153-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>Power of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225153-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-225331-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-225331-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-226492-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>retatively</quote> with <quote>relatively</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-226492-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-227199-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>she cries &lsquot;Something</quote> with <quote>she cries. &lsquot;Something</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-227199-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-239444-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>lack. (ie 2</quote> with <quote>lack (i.e. 2</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-239444-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-239950-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Demon lord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-239950-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-232774-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-232774-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-233977-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Physiurgy</quote> with <quote>Power of Physiurgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-233977-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-234454-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-234454-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-236491-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-236491-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-243331-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>for, indeed, I hate you</quote> with <quote>for indeed I hate you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-243331-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-246384-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246384-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-246588-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246588-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-247855-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Sorcery</quote> with <quote>Power of Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-247855-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-252622-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>column reach</quote> with <quote>column reaches</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-252622-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-253234-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253234-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>you ashore. I am</quote> with <quote>you ashore. &lsquot;I am</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-254918-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>host of Masbaté warriors wait</quote> with <quote>host of Masbaté warriors waits</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-254918-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-256449-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fleet-footed wariors</quote> with <quote>fleet-footed warriors</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-256449-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-265382-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>shore&rsquot;, he</quote> with <quote>shore,&rsquot; he</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265382-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-257171-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-257171-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-258184-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258184-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-259357-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259357-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-262423-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-262423-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-262615-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-262615-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-272932-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magical Power of Thaumaturgy</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick of Thaumaturgy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272932-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-266624-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>look-out</quote> with <quote>lookout</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-266624-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-277730-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pupiless</quote> with <quote>pupilless</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277730-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-271241-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Telergy</quote> with <quote>Power of Telergy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271241-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-271307-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271307-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-272303-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272303-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-273543-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>enery</quote> with <quote>energy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-273543-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-274654-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>plunge into</quote> with <quote>plunges into</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-274654-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-277865-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277865-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-278105-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-278105-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-281248-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Half-way</quote> with <quote>Halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-281248-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-294413-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Pin-points</quote> with <quote>Pinpoints</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-294413-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233">233</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-284969-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-284969-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-285403-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285403-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-286402-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286402-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-286581-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286581-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect237">237</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-289182-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-289182-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-289584-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power of Necromancy</quote> with <quote>Power of Necromancy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-289584-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-289665-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power as a Visionary</quote> with <quote>Power as a Visionary</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-289665-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-290035-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>these powers</quote> with <quote>these Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-290035-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-294426-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>gasp, Beyond</quote> with <quote>gasp. Beyond</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-294426-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-306013-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sorcery</quote> with <quote>Sorcery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306013-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-318178-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>miles lies</quote> with <quote>miles lie</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-318178-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-330146-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-330146-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-330542-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the above powers</quote> with <quote>the above Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-330542-ITEM--> Changed the last choice to lead to <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> instead of <a idref="sect59">Section 59</a>, as <a idref="sect59">Section 59</a> does not fit into the context of the story here, and there are no other ways to reach <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-335296-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crosed</quote> with <quote>crossed</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335296-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-336152-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>reinforcments</quote> with <quote>reinforcements</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-336152-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-340013-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>realise</quote> with <quote>realize</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-340013-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-342660-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>this power</quote> with <quote>this Power</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-342660-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-343601-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>shield of sorcery</quote> with <quote><spell>Shield of Sorcery</spell></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343601-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-344687-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-344687-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-354727-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>the horde begin</quote> with <quote>the horde begins</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-354727-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-345775-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345775-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-358635-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>empty vial</quote> with <quote>empty Vial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358635-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-353793-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>magical powers</quote> with <quote>Magical Powers</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353793-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-363241-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-363241-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-355155-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>feet lies</quote> with <quote>feet lie</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-355155-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-358588-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ememy</quote> with <quote>enemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358588-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-360141-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Turn 235</quote> with <quote>Turn to 235</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-360141-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-363059-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>zig-zag</quote> with <quote>zigzag</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-363059-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-365324-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>guildsmen</quote> with <quote>Guildsmen</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-365324-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-383912-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cannot . .</quote> with <quote>cannot&ellips;</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383912-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-383986-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demon lord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383986-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect317">317</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-371475-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fomation</quote> with <quote>formation</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-371475-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-371930-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Combat last</quote> with <quote>Combat lasts</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-371930-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-373924-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>kock</quote> with <quote>knock</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-373924-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect321">321</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-375393-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-375393-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-389380-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demon lord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-389380-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-377135-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>war horn</quote> with <quote>war-horn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377135-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-380951-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Shadkine Army</quote> with <quote>Shadakine Army</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380951-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-382765-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-382765-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-384687-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>six items</quote> with <quote>eight items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-384687-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-403018-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Tamara Seeds</quote> with <quote>Tarama Seeds</quote>, as in <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-403018-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-403665-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Phinomel pods</quote> with <quote>Phinomel Pods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-403665-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-386152-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>tree-tops</quote> with <quote>treetops</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-386152-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-389054-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>will hold up to six items may be stored</quote> with <quote>can hold up to eight items, and any other potions may be stored</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-389054-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-407417-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Tamara Seeds</quote> with <quote>Tarama Seeds</quote>, as in <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-407417-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-408019-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Phinomel pods</quote> with <quote>Phinomel Pods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-408019-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-391212-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>hail of arrows that fly</quote> with <quote>hail of arrows that flies</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-391212-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-392261-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>melée</quote> with <quote>mêlée</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-392261-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-393155-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-393155-ITEM--> Moved the first choice into the last position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-396083-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>forboding</quote> with <quote>foreboding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-396083-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-399152-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>superstitous</quote> with <quote>superstitious</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-399152-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-415215-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>arch enemy</quote> with <quote>arch-enemy</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-415215-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-401785-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>beleagured</quote> with <quote>beleaguered</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-401785-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-403110-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-403110-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>)<!--ERRTAG-DE-424345-ITEM--> Deleted <quote> at the beginning of the book</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-424345-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-420935-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demon lord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-420935-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect352">352</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-409496-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-409496-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect353">353</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-411499-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>higher magick</quote> with <quote>Higher Magick</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-411499-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-AD-423745-ITEM--> Added a fourth choice <quote>If you do not possess any of the above Powers, you must attack the bridge with your Staff; <!--link-text-->turn to 175<!--/link-text-->.</quote> (cf. <a idref="sect280">Section 280</a>).<!--/ERRTAG-AD-423745-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect355">355</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-432850-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Phinomel pods</quote> with <quote>Phinomel Pods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-432850-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect360">360</a>) Added a link to the <cite>Passing of the Shianti</cite> epilogue.<!--ERRTAG-RE-432183-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>The demon lord, Agarash</quote> with <quote>The Demonlord Agarash</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-432183-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="passing">The Passing of the Shianti</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-435390-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>artifacts</quote> with <quote>artefacts</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-435390-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-442388-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>as many foretold they would</quote> with <quote>as many foretold they would be</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-442388-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Added a fourth step <quote>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</quote> in the first step list.<!--ERRTAG-RE-422772-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a></quote> with <quote>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422772-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-422906-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422906-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) It is implied that you must pick a new <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> even if have already completed previous one or more <cite>Grey Star</cite> adventures. This conflicts with the rules for the <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> books where you carry over your score from a previous successfully completed adventure. For the sake of consistency, players may wish to carry over their existing score from the last <cite>Grey Star</cite> book they completed.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 50 to their final <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score from the end of their last successfully completed <cite>Grey Star</cite> adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) There are sections of this book that describe how you use a Magical Power and how many <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you spend, without giving you a choice and without taking into account that you may not have the required number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points left. <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> contains one such case of mandated use of magic, but it also provides a method for resolving this problem: If you do not have enough <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points then you must use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point you lack (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>You may wish to use this method to resolve this problem in similar situations. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p> <p>Note that you may not <em>choose</em> to use a Magical Power or your Wizard's Staff if you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This method also cannot be used in cases where you lose <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points for a reason other than using magic, for instance as a result of mental or magical attacks. In these cases, you may end up with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) It is possible for your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to fall below zero. For example, if you are the victim of an attack that drains your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, your score may be forced below zero. If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to cast spells or use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The original intent of the author was most likely that the player should add 30 to their final <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score from the end of their last successfully completed <cite>Grey Star</cite> adventure. In the <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> series, it is standard practice to restore one's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to their original total when carrying them over from one adventure to the next, but the power of the Moonstone seems to change those rules in this case.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) The wording of this section of the rules seems to indicate&emdash;if read literally&emdash;that you may choose your set of Lesser Magicks again if you have completed a previous adventure. This is without precedent in other books. In order to preserve consistency with other books, you should not choose your Lesser Magicks again. If you have currently mastered five Lesser Magicks, you may choose one additional Lesser Magick from the list. If you have already mastered six Lesser Magicks, you keep these. If you choose Alchemy as a new Lesser Magick, or you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, you also receive a Herb Pouch with contents, as detailed in the Equipment section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a>) If your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> falls to zero or below, you will not be able to use the magical properties of your Wizard's Staff until your score is again above zero. You can still use your Wizard's Staff in combat as a normal weapon, but you must deduct 6 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. </p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) If you have completed a previous adventure, you keep all equipment you had at the end of that adventure. You do not receive any new equipment, unless you have just selected Alchemy as your sixth Lesser Magick, or if you have not mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy but you have selected the Higher Magick of Theurgy, in which case you receive a Herb Pouch with contents as indicated in this section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) If you have mastered the Lesser Magick of Alchemy or the Higher Magick of Theurgy and therefore have a Herb Pouch, you may choose to keep potions, vials, or ingredients in either the Herb Pouch or your Backpack. All other Backpack Items must be kept in your Backpack.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) If you wish to take the Sheath, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Although the term <quote>Agarashi</quote> is not used anywhere else in the <cite>Grey Star</cite> books, it is used in other books as the collective term for the monstrous servants of Agarash the Damned.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Remember to deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point for using the power of the Moonstone against Shasarak.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) If you do not have sufficient <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points, you may choose to simply subtract the specified number of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. This may leave you with a negative <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> score, or if it was already negative, it will make your score become even more negative. Alternatively, you may choose the method used in <a idref="sect175">Section 175</a> for resolving this problem: For the <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points you lack, you use <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points at a rate of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point (i.e. 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points = 1 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> point).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) If you possess a Temeris Potion you can teleport without using any <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. If you are versed in the Higher Magick of Thaumaturgy you can teleport by deducting 2 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points from your total. To use the Dimension Door of the Moonstone to teleport, deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. (Cf. <a idref="sect12">Section 12</a>.)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Tarama Seeds may be recorded as Special Items since they don't take up space in your Herb Pouch or Backpack. Each Tarama Seed can be used to cast exactly one spell or to use your Wizard's Staff outside of close combat (e.g. to fire a bolt of energy at a distant enemy) without using the normally required <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> points. Tarama Seeds cannot be used to maintain the effect of a spell or in place of other drains on your <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ>, like mental attacks. It also seems inappropriate to use a Tarama Seed in close combat where you could then decide to expend an infinite amount of <typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ> to automatically win a fight.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect355">355</a>) It appears that for every Phinomel Pod that you possess and wish to throw into the Leafwater pool, you may permanently raise your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 1 when using your Wizard's Staff. Remember to delete these Phinomel Pods from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="passing">The Passing of the Shianti</a>) This epilogue to the <cite>Grey Star</cite> series was included in <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 7</cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect1">Section 1</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect23">Section 23</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect39">Section 39</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect61">Section 61</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect67">Section 67</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect121">Section 121</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect131">Section 131</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect139">Section 139</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect147">Section 147</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect186">Section 186</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect201">Section 201</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect216">Section 216</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect242">Section 242</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect254">Section 254</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect270">Section 270</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect289">Section 289</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect316">Section 316</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect328">Section 328</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect342">Section 342</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect352">Section 352</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Shadakine Empire</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="powers">Magical Powers</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
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-Revision 1.4 2007/05/07 22:54:34 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
-Adding Paul Haskell as an Illustration Transcriptionist
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-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.9 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
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-
-<meta>
- <title>Shadow on the Sand</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Gary Chalk</strong>, the illustrator of the early Lone Wolf series, was born in 1952, grew up in Hertfordshire, England. Being interested in history, he began playing war games at the age of fifteen. When he graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in design, Gary spent three years training in a studio before becoming a teacher in art and design.</p>
- <p>Gary was working as a children's book illustrator when he became involved in adventure gaming, an interest which eventually led to the creation of several successful games. He is the inventor/illustrator of some of Britain's biggest-selling fantasy games including Cry Havoc, Starship Captain and Battlecars (co-designed with Ian Livingstone). He is also known for his work on the very successful game, Talisman.</p>
- <p>Gary was working at Games Workshop when Joe Dever asked him to illustrate some of his manuscript of Flight from the Dark. The two teamed up after that and, they continued to work together until the eighth book in the series, <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>.</p>
- <p>Gary has also drawn the illustrations in <cite>Redwall</cite> and related books, <cite>The Prince of Shadows</cite> gamebook series, and several books which he also authored. Gary continues to enjoy war gaming and works as an illustrator and model maker. He maintains a <a href="&link.gary.chalk.website;">website</a> with examples of his work.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf&emdash;last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund, and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed them during a bitter war with your age-old enemies, the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
-<p>The Zakhan of Vassagonia, the imperial ruler of this desert empire, has sent his most trusted envoy to seek a treaty of peace between your two countries, and the king has asked you to sign the treaty on behalf of your country.</p>
-<p>You wave farewell to Holmgard on this bleak midwinter's day, feeling sure you will return before the thaw. But as you watch the spires of Holmgard disappear in the falling snow, you have no inkling of the shadow that awaits you in Vassagonia.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1985 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1985 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Gary Chalk.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">For Robert Alfred Dever (1917&endash;1965)<br />and William Roland Chalk</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Julian Egelstaff (mainmatter)<br />Matthew Reynolds (extramatter)</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Paul Haskell<br/>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Michael Hahn (map)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Julian Egelstaff (sections 1&endash;400)<br />Matthew Reynolds (front matter)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Robert Ekblad<br />Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br />Matthew Reynolds<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- </dl>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Lone Wolf&emdash;last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund, and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed them during a bitter war with your age-old enemies, the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
-<p>It is midwinter in your northern homeland and a mantle of snow lies knee-deep in the streets of Holmgard&emdash;the capital&emdash;when you are summoned from your monastery in the hills by a messenger bearing a scroll, signed and sealed by the hand of King Ulnar. You are surprised to read the King's message, for it is a request for your help in solving an urgent problem of what he describes as <quote>great diplomatic importance</quote>. It seems a strange request to make of a warrior lord, whose skills are better suited to the field of battle than to parleying with foreign envoys. However, you obey the summons and upon your arrival at the capital, all is made clear.</p>
-<p>The Zakhan of Vassagonia, the imperial ruler of this desert empire, has sent his most trusted envoy to seek a treaty of peace between your two countries, and you have been asked to sign the treaty on behalf of your country. The reason for this is easily apparent.</p>
-<p>Less than a year ago, a renegade noble of Vassagonia called Barraka led his army of bandits in an attack upon the Sommlending province of Ruanon. This mining town and much of the surrounding land was overrun and destroyed. Many Sommlending lost their lives, and many more were enslaved and forced to labour in the mines of the Maaken range. When the regular convoy from Ruanon failed to arrive at the capital, the king sent you to investigate. A great battle ensued in which you defeated Barraka in mortal combat. Without your courage and skill, the safety of Sommerlund and all of the Lastlands would have been placed in grave peril.</p>
-<p><quote>Your majesty, the Zakhan is gravely embarrassed by Barraka's foul treachery, and is most anxious that our friendship and trust be restored. He begs that you send the Kai warrior, Lone Wolf, to sign a treaty of peace with him at the Grand Palace in Barrakeesh,</quote> whimpers the Zakhan's emissary, as he kneels at the feet of King Ulnar.</p>
-<p>The king rises from his throne, barely able to conceal his distaste for the fawning envoy. He turns his gaze to you and bids you follow him to the privacy of an antechamber.</p>
-<p><quote>I have no liking for this desert realm, Lone Wolf, but I like the prospect of war even less. The Zakhan is old and frail, and has no son to claim his throne when he dies. Barraka was but one of many ruthless nobles who wait like jackals for the chance to seize power, and I fear they grow too impatient to allow the Zakhan to die a natural death. The treaty may not guarantee peace with Vassagonia once the Zakhan is dead, but it will at least buy us precious time to strengthen our southern border.</quote></p>
-<p>The king leads you to a window and points towards the harbour, barely visible through the falling snow. A Vassagonian galley lies anchored close to the harbour wall.</p>
-<p><quote>Go to Vassagonia, Lone Wolf. Sign the treaty and return quickly. Even with the promise of peace, I fear the shadow of war will fall upon us before the year is out.</quote></p>
-<p>You wave farewell to Holmgard on this bleak midwinter's day, feeling sure you will return before the thaw. But as you watch the spires of Holmgard disappear in the falling snow, you have no inkling of the shadow that awaits you in Vassagonia.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never go above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you will already have your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and Kai Disciplines which you can now carry over with you to Book 5. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items that you held at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
-<p>You may choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Kai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf adventure you have successfully completed; now read the <a idref="equipmnt">section on equipment</a> for Book 5 carefully.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over the centuries, the Kai monks have mastered the skills of the warrior. These skills are known as the Kai Disciplines, and they are taught to all Kai Lords. You have learnt only five of the skills listed below. The choice of which five skills these are, is for you to make. As all of the Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your perilous quest, pick your five with care. The correct use of a Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your five Disciplines, enter them in the Kai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="camflage">
- <meta><title>Camouflage</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Kai Lord to blend in with his surroundings. In the countryside, he can hide undetected among trees and rocks and pass close to an enemy without being seen. In a town or city, it enables him to look and sound like a native of that area, and can help him to find shelter or a safe hiding place.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Camouflage</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hunting">
- <meta><title>Hunting</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Lord will never starve in the wild. He will always be able to hunt for food for himself except in areas of wasteland and desert. You are aware that most of Vassagonia is arid desert; should your adventure lead you into this desert, the opportunities for successful hunting may not arise. But this skill is still very useful for it also enables a Kai Lord to move with great speed and dexterity.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Hunting</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sixthsns">
- <meta><title>Sixth Sense</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Lord of imminent danger. It may also reveal the true purpose of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tracking">
- <meta><title>Tracking</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to make the correct choice of a path in the wild, to discover the location of a person or object in a town or city and to read the secrets of footprints or tracks.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Tracking</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="healing">
- <meta><title>Healing</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline can be used to restore <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost in combat. If you possess this skill you may restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to your total for every numbered section of the book you pass through in which you are not involved in combat. (This is only to be used after your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) Remember that your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> cannot rise above its original level.</p>
-
- <p>If you choose this skill write <quote>Healing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wepnskll">
- <meta><title>Weaponskill</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Kai monastery, each initiate is taught to master one type of weapon. If Weaponskill is to be one of your Kai Disciplines, pick a number in the usual way from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and then find the corresponding weapon from the list below. This is the weapon in which you have skill. When you enter combat carrying this weapon, you add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = Dagger</li>
- <li>1 = Spear</li>
- <li>2 = Mace</li>
- <li>3 = Short Sword</li>
- <li>4 = Warhammer</li>
- <li>5 = Sword</li>
- <li>6 = Axe</li>
- <li>7 = Sword</li>
- <li>8 = Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>9 = Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with a weapon does not mean you set out on the adventure carrying that particular weapon. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons in the course of your adventures. You cannot carry more than 2 weapons.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponskill in &blankline; +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points if this weapon carried</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindshld">
- <meta><title>Mindshield</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Darklords and many of the evil creatures in their command have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Kai Discipline of Mindshield prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindshield: no points lost when attacked by Mindblast</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mndblst">
- <meta><title>Mindblast</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This enables a Kai Lord to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used at the same time as normal combat weapons and adds two extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Not all the creatures encountered on this adventure will be harmed by Mindblast. You will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlknsp">
- <meta><title>Animal Kinship</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to communicate with some animals and to be able to guess the intentions of others.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mindomtr">
- <meta><title>Mind Over Matter</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Discipline enables a Kai Lord to move small objects with his powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mind Over Matter</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed Books 1&endash;4 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, completion of Book 5 will raise you to the rank of Kai Master. This means that you will have acquired all ten basic Kai skills.</p>
-
- <p>All of the Special Items that you have found and kept during your adventures, may then be used in the Lone Wolf <quote>Magnakai</quote> series, which begins with Book 6 entitled <cite><a href="&link.06tkot;">The Kingdoms of Terror</a></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Holmgard on your voyage to the Vassagonian capital of Barrakeesh, you are given a <a idref="map">map of the desert empire</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you may now enter this number in the Gold Crowns section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total of any Crowns you may already possess. Remember you can only carry a maximum of fifty Crowns.)</p>
- <p>You may take your pick of the following items (in addition to those you already possess, but remember you may only carry two weapons). You may take up to four of the following:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Dagger (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items). This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="laumspur.gif" width="156" height="66" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="laumspur.gif" width="156" height="66" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 Special Rations (Meals). Each of these Special Rations counts as one Meal, and each takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Shield (Special Items). This adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in combat.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="shield.gif" width="158" height="85" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="shield.gif" width="158" height="85" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the four items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You don't need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Spear&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Special Rations&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Shield&emdash;slung over shoulder when not in combat, otherwise carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill and the correct weapon, it adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at any time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items. Before you begin <cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>, you may choose to leave any or all of these items in <quote>safekeeping</quote> at your Kai monastery in Sommerlund. Special Items in <quote>safekeeping</quote> cannot be used, but also they cannot be lost during your adventure.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Sommerlund and Vassagonia is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Whenever you kill a creature and search the body, you may take any Gold Crowns that you find and put them in your Belt Pouch.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Kai Discipline of Hunting as one of your five skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat (unless you are in an area of desert where the opportunity for hunting is limited).</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potions during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows.</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Kai Disciplines to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is ambushed by a Winged Devil (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but must stand and fight as the creature swoops down on him. Lone Wolf has the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, to which the Winged Devil is not immune, so he adds 2 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> Of 17.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Winged Devil's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (17 − 20 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and Winged Devil has been established as -3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- <li>Winged Devil loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
-
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are bestowed upon Kai Lords at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf series, you will gain an additional Kai Discipline and gradually progress towards mastery of the ten basic Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Novice</li>
- <li>Intuite</li>
- <li>Doan</li>
- <li>Acolyte</li>
- <li>Initiate&emdash;You begin the Lone Wolf adventures with this level of Kai training</li>
- <li>Aspirant</li>
- <li>Guardian</li>
- <li>Warmarn or Journeyman</li>
- <li>Savant</li>
- <li>Master</li>
- </ol>
- <p>Beyond the ten basic skills of the Kai Master await the secrets of the higher Kai Disciplines or <quote>Magnakai</quote>. By acquiring the wisdom of the Magnakai, a Kai Lord can progress towards the ultimate achievement and become a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission is one of peaceful diplomacy&emdash;but beware! The desert empire of Vassagonia is notorious for being a land of deceit and treachery. Be on your guard at all times. Also, make notes as you progress, as you will find they will be of great help in future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will aid you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>If this is your first Lone Wolf adventure, choose your Kai Disciplines with care&emdash;a wise choice and a great deal of courage should enable anyone to complete both parts of this adventure, no matter how weak his or her initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this book.</p>
- <p>May the spirits of your Kai Masters guide you on your perilous adventure.</p>
- <p>Good Luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="part1">
- <meta><title>Part I</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For twenty-five days, the Vassagonian galley sails on a steady course for its home port of Barrakeesh, with only a brief stop at the Durenese harbour of Port Bax to break a safe but monotonous voyage.</p>
- <p>You use your time aboard the ship to good purpose, learning the Vassagonian language from the ship's crew. They are only too eager to teach you, asking only in return tales of your adventures in the Lastlands&emdash;for many of the sailors, these are the most exciting stories they have ever heard. By the time you reach Barrakeesh, you have both mastered their language and won their respect.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="209" height="192" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="209" height="192" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It is early afternoon when the ramparts of the desert capital are first sighted on the horizon. You push your way through the cheering crew, and join the envoy at the prow of the ship. Beaming with pride, he hands you a telescope and invites you to view the land of his birth. The site is indeed breathtaking. You stare in fascination at the golden domes, minarets and green-tiled roofs shimmering beneath the desert sun, and marvel at the splendour of the Grand Palace, which dominates this magnificent city. Then you notice that from every golden turret of the palace flutters a long, black pennant. You ask the envoy of the meaning of the black flags. Horror floods across his face as he snatches the telescope from your hands. <quote>By the spirit of the Majhan! He is dead &ellips; The Zakhan is dead!</quote></p>
- <p>As the bad news spreads through the ship, you pray that the peace treaty will be signed and honoured by the Zakhan's successor. However, the envoy is less than hopeful.</p>
- <p>The harbour of Barrakeesh is deserted save for a handful of citizens clad in black, and the only sound that greets you is the toll of a funeral bell, echoing through the harbour on this day of mourning. Then a horse-drawn carriage enters the harbour square, escorted by the cavalry of the Palace Guard. It halts, and a dour man in turquoise robes steps out to meet you.</p>
- <p><quote>A thousand greetings, Lone Wolf, I am Maouk, and I welcome you to our city on behalf of my master, his most sublime magnificence, Zakhan Kimah.</quote></p>
- <p>The envoy gasps upon hearing the name of the new Zakhan. He turns to speak, his eyes wild with fear. <quote>It is a trap, you must&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>His warning is cut short by the blade of Maouk's dagger. Suddenly, scores of black-clad warriors emerge from the shadows; they are Sharnazim, elite Vassagonian bodyguards. They close in, surrounding you on every side. You must act quickly if you are to survive this deadly trap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to stand and fight against these overwhelming odds, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to surrender to Maouk and his warriors, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to run back to the galley, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless from the exertion of combat, you step back as the Elix finally collapses and dies. Slowly, its glass-green eyes mist over and become opaque like hard, cold jadin. Around the creature's blood-spattered throat hangs a Gold Chain and Key. You quickly discover that the Key opens the steel door of a strongroom at the far end of apothecary.</p>
- <p>High upon a shelf, just inside the door, you find a small box that contains what you seek&emdash;the Oede herb. Within seconds of pressing the beautiful golden leaves to your wounded shoulder, a tingling sensation engulfs your whole arm. The numbness soon fades, and both your arm and shoulder are free of the horrific Limbdeath microbes.</p>
- <p>Sufficient Oede herb remains in the box for one further application. It is a powerful substance that can be used against many deadly diseases or alternatively can be used to restore 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if swallowed after combat. If you wish to keep the Potion, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item. You should also restore the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points that were temporarily lost due to Limbdeath.</p>
- <p>After dragging the dead Elix into the strongroom, you lock the steel door from the inside. You notice that there are in fact two doors to the strongroom: the one by which you entered and a smaller door set into the opposite wall. The Gold Key opens the lock of the new door, which leads to a narrow staircase beyond, dimly lit by flaring torches in wall brackets.</p>
- <p>The climb is steep and arduous. You suspect that these steps are part of a secret route to the strongroom, and your suspicions are only confirmed when you arrive at what appears to be a dead end. A closer examination reveals a narrow bronze door set flush to the wall, plain in appearance except for a tiny key hole close to the floor. As you insert and twist the Gold Key, you are quietly confident that the bronze door will open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67"><link-text>Turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the bodies of the three vestibule guards and uncover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>1 Dagger</li>
- <li>1 Sword</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Alether (Increases your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of one fight.)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may also take the Blowpipe and the remaining Sleep Dart. If you decide to take them, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Backpack Items. In the robe of the dead blowpipe warrior, you find a small piece of parchment upon which is written today's date and the number sixty-seven.</p>
- <p>A smile creeps across your face as you realize that this is the number that will open the bronze door. You hold your breath and twist the dial.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67"><link-text>Turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect4-1-foot" idref="sect4-1">
- <p>If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds, you must still win before turning to <a idref="sect180">Section 180</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stoop to grasp the sword, but as your fingers close around the hilt, the second guard attacks.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Palace Jailer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Ignore all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the enemy in the first round of combat, for you can only attempt to parry his blow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you win and the fight lasts for 4 rounds of combat or less, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.<a id="sect4-1" idref="sect4-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway round the tower when a section of the sandstone ledge suddenly gives way beneath your feet. Desperately you claw at the masonry, but the stone is old and disintegrates in your hands. You topple backwards and fall to your doom in the palace gardens below.</p>
- <choice>Your escape and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The oil is made from the fruit of the larnuma tree. It has a soothing and relaxing effect when rubbed into the skin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you choose to rub the larnuma oil into your skin, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you decide not to use the oil, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the bowstring, and the arrow arcs through the air towards your target. However, you have misjudged the range, and it falls short and shatters on the cobblestones of the harbour square, alerting Maouk's men to your whereabouts. You prepare to take flight, but the small boat is quickly surrounded, and you are forced to surrender.</p>
- <p>As the black-clad Sharnazim drag you along the harbour wall, you fear that your life is about to come to a sudden end.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You channel all your Kai skill into detecting the number that will open the door; it is a strenuous task, and one that demands great concentration. Gradually, the image of two numbers&emdash;six and seven&emdash;begin to form in your mind. The image is hazy, and you're not sure if the number is sixty-seven or seventy-six. You are exhausted by your efforts, and they have cost you to 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Deduct these from your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total before choosing between the two possibilities.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you decide to choose sixty-seven, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you decide to choose seventy-six, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard begins to cough. He pleads with you to slacken your grip or he will choke to death. You ask him one more question: does he know where your confiscated equipment is? He says he does not know. Then, suddenly, he elbows you in the chest and breaks free. You are winded, but you are determined to stop him from escaping.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect10-1-foot" idref="sect10-1">
- <p>Make sure you note your possessions elsewhere in case you should find them later.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Sharnazim surround you and drag you to your feet. They take your Backpack, your Weapons, your Gold Crowns and all your Special Items.<a id="sect10-1" idref="sect10-1-foot" class="footnote" /> (Make all the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) Your hands are tied with wire, and you are frogmarched back to the plaza. A carriage is waiting. As you are thrown in head first, Maouk climbs aboard and, gloating with triumph, gives the command: <quote>Back to the Grand Palace. The Zakhan awaits his prize.</quote></p>
- <p>You struggle to free yourself from the wire that cuts into your wrists, but Maouk is quick to see the danger. He grabs your arm and forces a dart into your skin. As sleep numbs all your senses, the last sound you hear is Maouk's wicked laughter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To reach the north door without being seen, you must work your way carefully around the chamber, dodging from one pillar to the next.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Kai Discipline of Camouflage or Hunting, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If your total is now -2&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If your total is now 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in underwater combat with a deadly salt water scavenger.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bloodlug</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">11</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> due to the speed of its attack. This creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You are in underwater combat with a deadly salt water scavenger</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="659" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="659" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You force yourself along the canal, which is thick with green and black scum, clotted with a hideous variety of filth and debris. Huge cockroaches crawl in and out of the cracked ceiling. The vile water is waist deep, and as the surface scum breaks, a cloud of putrid gas wafts up and engulfs you. The stench is appalling; choking, you cover your mouth and nose with the edge of your Kai cloak. A sudden splash warns you that Maouk's men are not far behind so you quicken your step.</p>
- <p>You have waded only a few yards when you hear a soft rustling noise. You freeze. It is the unmistakable sound of scaled skin slithering softly over stone. Fear turns to blind terror as you catch your first glimpse of the creature now advancing towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step into a perfect hemisphere. The walls of the chamber curve smoothly into the ceiling, where a small window casts a splash of light across the floor. There is a large circular dais in the centre of the room laden with incense burners, decanters, quilts, scrolls, cloaks, urns and all kinds of fruit and sweetmeats. A drawer catches your eye, protruding from beneath the lip of the dais; you recognize the contents. You have found your confiscated equipment. Restore to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> all the Backpack Items, Special Items, Weapons and Gold Crowns you lost when you were imprisoned.</p>
- <p>Elated by your discovery, you resolve to escape from the Grand Palace as quickly as possible. There is only one other door, apart from the one by which you entered the chamber, which is set into the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you wish to leave the chamber, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you wish to search the chamber for useful items, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel is dark and shadowy. Much of it is in a poor state of repair, and many cracks and fissures scar the walls. You must search for one large enough in which to hide. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian or higher, deduct 1 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If your total is now -1&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If your total is now 8&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush into the cellar and bolt the door. Pressing your ear to the gnarled timber, you listen intently to the noise of Maouk's angry soldiers. They have entered the building and it will only be a matter of time before they notice the cellar door. You cast your eyes around the room. It is empty except for a Coil of Rope and a Tinderbox. Then you notice that there is another way out of the small stone room&emdash;an iron grille in the centre of the floor. However, the horrible stench rising from it turns your stomach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to leave the cellar by the grille, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you decide to stay in the cellar, prepare for combat and <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes a long time for the fear and nausea to subside, but you push on through the slimy water, almost oblivious to your dreadful surroundings. Eventually you reach a junction where a wider tunnel crosses your path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to continue along the west channel, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to turn north into the new tunnel, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to go south along the new tunnel, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cell door does not open again until the sun has dipped below the peaks of the Dahir mountains. You prepare yourself to meet the Zakhan, to demand your immediate release and safe passage back to Sommerlund, but it is not only the Zakhan who awaits you in the Grand Hall. He has a guest who has travelled many miles for this special meeting. His name is Haakon. He is a Darklord of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Unarmed and helpless, you are forced to kneel before the Darklord. With wicked relish, Haakon squeezes the life from your body with his own hands.</p>
- <choice>Your life and all hopes for your country end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the hood of your Kai cloak in order to keep your face in shadow as you approach the guards. They eye you suspiciously but are obviously reassured by your mastery of their language. You pretend to be a merchant whose goods have been confiscated and ask to be allowed to plead your case to the Judicar of Barrakeesh. The guards chuckle to themselves, and then demand two items from your Backpack before they allow you into the Grand Palace. They wink at each other, for they know that the Judicar never returns confiscated cargoes. They think you will be thrown in the palace cells for your insolence, like every other aggrieved merchant who has tried to plead for justice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to give the guards what they demand, erase any two Backpack Items (except Meals) from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may now pass through the gate and enter the palace gardens. <link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you do not or cannot give the guards two Backpack Items, you must leave the gate and search for some other means of entering the palace. <link-text>Turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect20-1-foot" idref="sect20-1">
- <p>It may be reasonable to restore half the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose in this combat if you win (note what happens if you lose).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically the warrior pulls on the reins and tries to trample you beneath the hooves of his startled horse.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Horseman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The warrior tries to trample you beneath the hooves of his startled horse</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="673" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="673" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to evade combat at any time by jumping into the sea, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to evade combat by surrendering, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If the fight lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you lose the combat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.<a id="sect20-1" idref="sect20-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-fast reactions have saved you from being hit. You dive forward and roll, so that the needle pierces your cloak but not your skin. However, the trident-armed guards close in, confident that the needle has found its mark, and you are tranquillized. The instant they lower their weapons you attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have sustained a deep chest wound that has penetrated your right lung. Lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you are still alive and possess the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The climb would be easy if it were not for the scalding steam. It stings your face and hands, making the skin puffed and sore. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have lost the use of one arm, deduct 3 points from the number you have picked. If you posses the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 points to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total is now -3&endash;-1, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If your total is now 7&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man slams the gate and draws the bolt. Seconds later you hear the footfalls of the Sharnazim as they rush into the courtyard. <quote>Go inside,</quote> whispers the man, pointing to the darkened interior of his house. <quote>I shall get rid of the soldiers.</quote></p>
- <p>You enter the house and climb a staircase to a large airy room, which looks out over a marketplace. Long, black flags hang from the windows of a hall opposite, and the sounds of mourning can be heard through its open doors.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="209" height="192" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="209" height="192" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dart sinks into your chest. You pull it free, but a wave of nausea makes you fall to your knees. The tip of the missile is drugged and you cannot fight the darkness that now engulfs your vision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Peering through the keyhole, you can see that the lock is unusual; a small metal plate blocks the mechanism, so that it is impossible to pick the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to try to break down the door, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you decide to leave the door and head off along the other passage towards the stairs, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Each of the three bottles bear a label, handwritten in green ink.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Larnuma Oil (restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Laumspur (restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Rendalim's Elixir (restores 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;7 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above. (The prices are per dose. All the potions are Backpack Items.) The herb-mistress then escorts you to a side door. <quote>I sense your despair, Northlander. I pray you find your cure.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="320" height="105" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="320" height="105" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you leave, she offers a word of advice. <quote>The guards at the north gate of the Grand Palace can be bribed.</quote> You thank her and enter the alley running along the side of her shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The plan works&emdash;your arrow cuts the air and finds its mark. The smash of glass echoes around the square, drawing everyone's attention to the merchant's shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After tying a large knot in one end of the rope, you gather the coils and hurl the knotted end towards your target. After three failures, your fourth attempt is successful; the knot jams in a V-shaped joint, and you are able to pull yourself out of the water and swing across the vault to jump safely into the opposite tunnel. However, you cross this obstacle at the cost of your rope; it's still hangs from the metal bar, and there is no way you can rescue it. (Remember to strike this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>The passage ahead winds and curves like a giant snake, and the foul air wafting towards you is hot and humid. Although you seem to have shaken off your pursuers, you have yet to escape from the Baga-darooz.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass several high-arched portals overlooking the east city wall and continue easily and safely until you hear noises drifting along the passage. The voices of hungry guards and the distinctive clatter of plates and mugs warn you that a crowded mess hall lies ahead.</p>
- <p>You are trying to decide on the best course of action when a patrol of guards suddenly appears behind you in the corridor. Quickly, you jump onto a window ledge and take cover behind the arch of a portal. However, the arch is narrow, and you are sure to be seen when the guards march past.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to hide outside on the narrow ledge that runs round the palace wall, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to attack the guards as they march past, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect31-1-foot" idref="sect31-1">
- <p>Note that you do not need any of your own Torches to use the Tinderbox in this case.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you start to climb, two Sharnazim warriors suddenly emerge from the insect-choked tunnel. They lunge at you, their hands outstretched, their fingers hooked to claw at your legs and drag you down. You kick out and strike one of the cruel-faced men beneath the jaw. He clutches at his throat and gives a gurgling cry as he falls backwards into the slimy water.</p>
- <p>You reach the stone trapdoor, but the other warrior has unsheathed his scimitar and has begun to climb the ladder; he no longer intends to capture you alive. Pressing your shoulder to the cobwebbed trapdoor, you push up the heavy stone and scramble out to find yourself in a noisy alley, crowded with people and market stalls. The sewer hole itself is close to a wicker table stacked high with bundles of torches.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you possess a Kalte Firesphere or a Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.<a id="sect31-1" idref="sect31-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you do not have either of these Items, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the hood of your cloak and hurry through the open doors into the dark, cool hall. The people are kneeling in front of a pulpit where a holy man, dressed in flowing robes of black and gold, reads aloud from a gem-encrusted book. Behind him, the face of the late Zakhan, immortalized in a tapestry suspended from the roof by huge silken cords, looks down on the mourners.</p>
- <p>The congregation is wrapped in prayer, and nobody sees you enter. The ceremony soon comes to an end, and you are able to slip past Maouk's men as the mourners flood into the streets.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hack the dirt-encrusted floor and uncover a large metal ring, which proves to be part of an old trapdoor. The metal ring is badly corroded, but you manage to prise the trapdoor open. It covers a deep shaft; from the inky darkness below comes the stench of the sewer.</p>
- <p>The Sharnazim are climbing up to stone steps. Their pounding footsteps match your racing heartbeat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to jump down the shaft, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to stand and fight the Sharnazim, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter how hard you try to picture the mechanism in your mind's eye, the image will not appear. Deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the strain of your mental exertion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you want to try to break down the door, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you decide to leave the door and head off along the other passage towards the stairs, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect35-1-foot" idref="sect35-1">
- <p>The Jewelled Mace is a weapon-like Special Item.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great snake shudders and convulses in the throes of death. The smell of its thick brown blood is disgusting, and you have to hold your breath and grit your teeth as you lift the dead Yas away from the chest and peer inside.</p>
- <p>You discover six silver-handled maces, each beautifully carved and encrusted with rubies, emeralds and pearls. In the Northlands these weapons would fetch thousands of Crowns. At the bottom of the chest, you also discover a small Copper Key. If you wish to take either a Jewelled Mace or the Copper Key, or both, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Special Items.<a id="sect35-1" idref="sect35-1-foot" class="footnote" /> You carry the Copper Key in the pocket of your tunic and the Jewelled Mace tucked into your belt.</p>
- <p>The acidic smell of the snake blood is beginning to make you retch. Quickly, you climb the stone steps and leave the armoury by the north door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grim-faced Sharnazim encircle you, their razor-sharp scimitars glinting in the afternoon sun. <quote>Take him!</quote> shouts Maouk. <quote>But take him alive!</quote></p>
- <p>Reluctantly, the warriors sheathe their swords and wait for a chance to rush you. Six lie dead at your feet before you are eventually overpowered. <quote>You are brave, Kai Lord,</quote> says Maouk, in a mocking tone, <quote>but you will need more than bravery to save you now.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Imperial Apothecary can only be reached from the palace gardens by entering the Vizu-diar. The kitchens are part of the slaves quarters, under constant supervision of the cruel slave-masters and guards. You wait until the path and lawns are deserted before you run across to the door of the Vizu-diar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Halfway round the small tower, a section of the sandstone ledge begins to crumble beneath your feet. Instinctively, you leap sideways and stretch out your hands in time to grasp the firm ledge beyond. The drop below is terrifying, but your terror gives you the impetus and strength you need to claw your way back on to the ledge. Your fingers are bleeding and bruised, but you are still alive. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man is lying. He knows that other guards are sure to turn up at any moment. As soon as you loosen your grip, he will attempt to overpower you and raise the alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to continue questioning him, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you decide to kill him, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kwaraz drops from the ceiling and plunges into the water, creating an enormous wave of foul slime which completely submerges you. Wracked with nausea, you cough and retch and try to scoop the muck from your eyes and mouth. The Kwaraz's carcass blocks the tunnel, and you can only get past by climbing over it. Still in a state of shock, you lose 1 Backpack Item, your pouch of Gold Crowns and 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fill your mouth with oil but cannot bring yourself to swallow it&emdash;the foul tasting liquid makes you feel sick. You spit it out, and gulp mouthfuls of water to rid yourself of the disgusting taste.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you now decide to rub some of the oil into your skin, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you decide to forget the vile-tasting oil completely, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense warns you that the alley is a dead end. If you take that exit from the square, you will certainly be trapped. Only two other choices remain: the high, nail-studded gate to your left, or the path directly ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you decide to go through the gate, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you decide to take the path, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach a small chamber set above the tunnel. Here, at least, it is dry, although the foul sewer gas permeates everything. You hurry along a narrow passage, which turns first to the west and then to the south, but your heart sinks as you see a dead end looming out of the inky blackness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to search for a hidden exit, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to prepare yourself for combat, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry through the west door and into the welcoming cool of the corridor beyond. A large drawbar on the inside of the door catches your eye; you lock it to delay any would-be pursuers.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="254" height="106" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="254" height="106" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At the end of the corridor lies a hall full of weapons. Racks of spears and swords line the chamber walls, and a massive workbench covers the floor. It is the palace armoury. In the midst of the tools which litter the workbench, there is a large, black, leather-bound book.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to examine the book, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to ignore the book and search for your confiscated equipment instead, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate your Mindblast on the guard's hand. He screams and his fingers spring open as his hand is robbed of all feeling and control. He is now unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to attack the guard, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish simply to overpower him and capture him alive, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your adversary falls to the ground, the other guard stabs at you with his Trident. You cannot evade combat and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vestibule Guard 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have a strong feeling that more Kwaraz occupy the north tunnel. You sense a lair. It would be almost suicide to go that way, so you must take one of the remaining routes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to continue along the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to go south along the new tunnel, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus on the lock and concentrate all of your Kai skill on opening it. Sweat begins to trickle down your face. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian or higher, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If your total is now 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The outer wall of the Grand Palace is far too high to climb, and even if you had a rope long enough, your green Kai cloak would be seen for miles, set against the white, sun-bleached marble wall.</p>
- <p>You crouch in the shadow of a doorway while you concentrate on working out a plan. There is a constant traffic of mounted scouts and couriers from the north gate. Those arriving hand a scroll of parchment to two of the guards before they enter. Slowly, a bold plan begins to take shape in your mind. If you could overpower one of the couriers before he reaches the palace gate, you could disguise yourself in his clothes and use his scroll to gain entrance.</p>
- <p>Many of the couriers approach the Grand Palace from the harbour, and although it is infested with troops, you discover the ideal place to ambush a rider. There is a broad avenue where a bridge of gnarled old wood and metal curves over the street, and here, beneath the wooden arch, you lie in wait for your prey.</p>
- <p>Your chance soon arrives; a black-robed rider enters the avenue and spurs his horse along the street. He will have to pass beneath the arch. You prepare to pounce.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Savant, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If your total is now 6&endash;13, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The smooth leather soles of your boots do not grip on the wet wood. You slip, and as you fall you gash your head on the row of oars. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are fished from the water by the Sharnazim; they drag you by your cloak across the sun-bleached flagstones of the harbour square and deposit you at Maouk's feet. He looks at you mockingly. <quote>You are brave, Kai Lord. But you will need more than bravery to save you now.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A slippery ladder disappears into the dark, stench-filled shaft. You gulp a lungful of air and climb down, locking the trapdoor behind you. When you finally reach the bottom of the shaft, your worst fears are confirmed.</p>
- <p>You have entered the Baga-darooz, the main drainage sewer of Barrakeesh. You recall one of the crewmen aboard the galley, an old man nicknamed <quote>The Stink</quote> because he smelled so much, having been sentenced to one year's imprisonment in the Baga-darooz for a crime he did not commit. Peering along the gloomy tunnels, you wonder how he survived for so long in this dank, filthy sewer.</p>
- <p>Suddenly your thoughts are disturbed by the sound of splintering wood. Chunks of shattered timber rain down upon you as the Sharnazim force open the trapdoor. The heavy iron grille glances off your shoulder as it falls; you stifle a cry of pain, but you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the wound.</p>
- <p>This section of the Baga-darooz is a junction where three channels meet. You must quickly decide which channel to take, for Maouk's men are now descending the ladder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you wish to enter the left channel, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to enter the right channel, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to enter the channel straight ahead, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn the body over with the toe of your boot and search the robes, discovering the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Jailer's Keys (Special Item)</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (The Jailer's Keys should be worn on your belt.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the sign of the fish. It is the symbol of an order of monks known as <quote>The Redeemers</quote>, a silent order who are devoted to a lifetime of prayer, pilgrimage, and the study of the healing arts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to enter the dwelling, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you decide to enter the tavern instead, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurrying down the steps and away from the Bath Hall, you enter the <foreign xml:lang="x-vassagonian"><quote>Saadi-tas-Ouda</quote></foreign>: the Square of the Dead. Jet-black flagstones cover the square, each with a long iron spike set deep into its centre. From the Bath Hall steps, the square resembles the back of a massive iron porcupine, but when you reach the base of the steps, you realize that the Saadi-tas-Ouda is in fact far more sinister.</p>
- <p>Stuck on top of each spike is a human skull&emdash;all that remains of pirates, murderers, traders and thieves who have been sentenced to death. The grisly display serves as a warning to others never to defy the law of the Zakhan.</p>
- <p>As you reach the far side of the square, you brush against a spike. Fresh blood is smeared across the arm of your tunic, staining it dark red. You raise your eyes, cursing at your misfortune, but you are shocked into silence by the sight before you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Impaled upon the sharp iron pole is the head of the Vassagonian envoy</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="636" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="636" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Impaled upon the sharp iron pole is the head of the Vassagonian envoy. To either side are the heads of all the galley crew. On each of their foreheads is freshly branded one word&emdash;TRAITOR. Fear wells up inside you; turning your face away from the sightless eyes, you run into the crowded streets of the Mikarum, the district where the spice and herb merchants live.</p>
- <p>At the end of a narrow, winding street, you reach a junction. Opposite is a shop with a bright red sign above the door:</p>
- <signpost>Bir Dar Masoun&emdash;HERB-MISTRESS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you need the Oede herb, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you do not need this herb, but still decide enter the shop, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to continue along in a new alleyway that heads off towards the Grand Palace, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The temperature rises steadily until you are bathed in sweat. Ahead, you see a chamber filled with steam that rises from its bubbling floor. You are about the enter the chamber when you catch a glimpse of the danger awaiting you; the stone walkway ends abruptly, only a few yards into the chamber. Ten feet below, lying before you like the surface of a huge bubbling cauldron, is a tar-sorkh: a mud geyser.</p>
- <p>These geysers are common in Vassagonia. Much of the desert empire is unstable, but although it is subject to constant earth tremors, it rarely results in great destruction. The Vassagonians call these tremors: <foreign xml:lang="x-vassagonian"><quote>Tasa-Dophiem</quote></foreign>, which means <quote>The Wrestling Gods</quote>.</p>
- <p>This particular mud geyser has been put to practical use. It provides a constant source of heat for the dwellings built over the chamber. The steam from the tar-sorkh rises into a pair of huge, circular chimneys in the domed ceiling, which in turn feed heat to the buildings above. Your only way out of this chamber is by climbing one of these chimneys. Although there are no ladders, the rock-hewn chamber wall offers many footholds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to climb the left chimney, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to climb the right chimney, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect56-1-foot" idref="sect56-1">
- <p>You may record the Jakan on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Weapon. Although it may not use it currently, it may be of use to you in the future.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A search of the baskets crowding the little boat uncovers a beautifully hand-tooled leather case. You flick open the brass catch and discover that the case contains a Jakan&emdash;a hunting bow used by the coastal fishermen of Vassagonia.<a id="sect56-1" idref="sect56-1-foot" class="footnote" /> You are elated by your find but disappointed to discover that the case contains only one arrow.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="319" height="139" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="319" height="139" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Across the harbour square, close to Maouk's carriage, you notice a small, white-walled shop where a row of green glass flagons line a balcony on the first floor. You draw the bowstring to your lips and take careful aim; it is a difficult shot, and you have only one chance.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill (any weapon), add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If your total is now 4&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is unlocked, and for a moment your heart sinks; if this room is the Imperial Apothecary where the Oede herb is kept, why is the door not locked and guarded? Anxiously you slip inside and survey the interior.</p>
- <p>It seems to be an apothecary. Glass retorts bubble and steam over jets of blue flame, and strange fluids pass back and forth through a crazy maze of tubes and tunnels. Hundreds of herb jars line the far wall, and ten large copper urns, each full of rainbow-coloured powder, hang suspended from the soot-blackened ceiling. You begin searching through the herb jars, and suddenly you discover why the door was left unlocked. Creeping slowly towards you is the cat-like creature that guards the apothecary. Its eyes glow with a vivid green luminescence as it prepares to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Elix</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have ever fought an Elix before, add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. You cannot evade combat and must fight it to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect58-1-foot" idref="sect58-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.. If you choose the wrong section, then turn to <a idref="sect156">Section 156</a> as indicated above. You do not get a second guess.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow a straight passage of pale, rose-coloured stone, which soon ends at an empty vestibule. In its north wall is set a great wooden door, covered with engraved bronze plaques and studded with bronze nails. There is a curious lock set into the middle of this door, encircled by a beautiful carving of a long-tailed scorpion. A closer look at the lock reveals a series of Vassagonian numerals, numbered 1 to 200, engraved in the lock. You recognize the design: it is a Cloeasian combination lock.</p>
- <p>If you know the correct number that will open the bronze door, turn to that section number.<a id="sect58-1" idref="sect58-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not know the number that will open the door, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spring forward and slam your fist into the guard's face; he grunts and falls, clutching a bleeding nose. His sword drops to the ground close by your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to pick up the sword, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to ignore the sword and attack the second guard with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap towards the first warrior, feigning a blow that makes him dodge to the left. You anticipate his move and catch him in mid-step. He doubles up and then crumples into the slimy water, clutching his wound. The others hesitate and then back away.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a voice echoes along the tunnel. <quote>Leave him to me, you fools!</quote> Maouk appears from the shadows, a dart held high in his hand. He hisses a curse and flings the missile at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the door bursts open, and in rush the Sharnazim. You make a dash for the open window but are grabbed from behind and pulled to the ground. Lashing out with your feet and fists you free yourself, only to be overpowered by more of the dark-skinned warriors. As they drag you out into the courtyard, you catch a glimpse of the man who opened the gate; he smiles at you as he slips a pouch of silver into his pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinct and experience warn you that it would be rash to attack the guards so close to a crowded mess hall; any noise of combat would immediately be heard by the soldiers inside. There's now only one course of action for you to take&emdash;you must hide outside on the ledge running around a palace wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152"><link-text>Turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tear strips of cloth from your Kai cloak and bandage the wound as best you can. You manage to staunch the flow, but you have lost a lot of blood and fear the wound is infected.</p>
- <p>Deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your total, for every section of the book through which you pass, until you discover and swallow of Potion of Laumspur. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total falls to 0 before you discover the healing potion, you will die from blood poisoning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you wish to search the bodies of the dead guards, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to ignore the bodies and escape along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely taken a dozen steps along the walkway when you hear a low, inhuman growl. Then, the noise suddenly changes to an abominable and high-pitched sputter, as the huge bulk of a Kwaraz emerges from out of the dark. It is upon you before you can take any evasive action.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kwaraz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The giant reptile is very susceptible to psychic power. If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, add 4 (instead of the normal 2) to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The huge bulk of a Kwaraz emerges from out of the dark</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="667" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="667" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard slumps to the ground, his neck broken by the blow from the edge of your hand, but as you turn you see that the other man has recovered from your punch and is crawling across the floor, his hand stretched out to retrieve his sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to attack the guard, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish simply to overpower him and capture him alive, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sour-faced guard with a whip stands at the great doors to the kitchen. He delights in bullying the slaves that pass to and fro, lashing them with his whip and cursing them foully. You decide it is far too risky to confront the guard and instead focus your attention on the kitchen windows. The guard is too engrossed in beating an unfortunate slave who has dropped a basket of fruit to notice you sprint across the gardens and leap into the shadow of a tall, arched kitchen window. Then, to your horror, you notice that two guards are seated inside the kitchen, just below the window ledge on which you now stand. If they should so much as turn their heads, you will be seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to jump back into the palace gardens and try to enter the palace through the Zakhan's trophy room, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to launch a surprise attack on the seated guards, before they notice you are there, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect67-1-foot" idref="sect67-1">
- <p>This section is the correct answer for the Cloeasian combination lock from <a idref="sect58">Section 58</a></p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear a faint click followed by a soft whirring sound; the bronze door slides open. As you hurry through, the door clicks shut behind your back, as softly as it had opened.<a id="sect67-1" idref="sect67-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Instinct tells you that you have entered the chambers of the upper palace, the sumptuous private enclave of the Zakhan. You walk upon glistening tiles of opal and platinum, past sculptures and statues of pure gold. The door of solid amethyst ahead seems plain in comparison to the breathtaking splendour of this private world. Beyond the door lies another unique and startlingly beautiful world: the arboretum. A circular, cathedral-like arena spreads out below you, the green velvet canopy alive with the sound of bird song. Trees of every colour, shape and size flourish in the deep, dark soil of the floor. The Zakhan's arboretum houses a specimen of every tree that grows in Magnamund, and many species that are now extinct. As you walk the wrought iron balcony which encircles the arboretum, you recognize the leaves of a Sommlending oak. You feel a sudden wave of homesickness, but it does not make you despair; rather it renews your determination to escape from this hostile, sun-bleached land.</p>
- <p>At one of the exits from the arboretum, you discover a Quarterstaff propped against the wall. (If you wish to take this, remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) The desire to escape urges you on as you leave the arboretum and hurry through a network of lavish corridors and empty, deserted vestibules. You reach a landing where a broad staircase descends to a massive room that occupies most of the lower palace.</p>
- <p>From the top of the staircase, hidden by the shadow of a pilaster, you stare down on a sight that freezes your blood with terror.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You part the curtain of beads hanging in the doorway and enter the cool interior. The lifeless arm that hangs limply by your side has taken on a bluish hue. Fear returns; you must find the Oede herb to cure the disease, or you will lose the whole limb and possibly your life.</p>
- <p>A woman appears from the shadows of the counter. She has piercing green eyes and her red hair is raised, bound round with rings of jadin. <quote>Welcome Northlander,</quote> she says, in a voice both soft and clear. <quote>How may I serve you?</quote></p>
- <p>You hesitate before replying, <quote>Oede.</quote></p>
- <p>She narrows her eyes and casts a glance at your injured arm. <quote>I cannot help you,</quote> she says sorrowfully. <quote>Oede is now a very rare and precious herb. I would have to sell my shop and all my possessions in order to buy just one small pouch of Oede. There is only one man in Barrakeesh rich enough to possess this herb&emdash;the Zakhan.</quote></p>
- <p>Sweat breaks out upon your brow as your fear grows. <quote>What little Oede there is,</quote> she continues, <quote>is kept in the Grand Palace under lock and key.</quote></p>
- <p>You ask if there is any other herb that can cure your arm. She shakes her head from side to side. <quote>Only Oede will cure Limbdeath&emdash;and you can only find that in the strongroom of the Imperial Apothecary.</quote> She reaches behind the counter and brings forward three glass bottles, each containing a coloured liquid. <quote>They will not cure you, but they will dull the pain in the last few hours.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to examine the potions, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you decide to ignore them, leave the shop and continue along the alley, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect69-1-foot" idref="sect69-1">
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> all Weapons, Special Items, Gold Crowns, and your Backpack but note them elsewhere in case you should find them later.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake up in great discomfort;<a id="sect69-1" idref="sect69-1-foot" class="footnote" /> every muscle of your body feels knotted and bruised. You force open eyelids clogged with dried sweat, and look with dread at your wretched surroundings. You are lying on the hard stone floor of a prison cell. Over by the far wall, beneath a window criss-crossed with iron bars, is a low wooden bunk covered in filthy rags. Cockroaches, some the size of field mice, scuttle along a foul-smelling gutter that disappears into a grating in the floor.</p>
- <p>You discover that your hands are free and slowly pull yourself upright into a sitting position, resting your back against the cell door. A faint draught from the corridor outside provides the only relief from the stifling heat and bad air of the cell. In the distance you can hear footsteps approaching. Then there is a jangle of keys and the creak of hinges. A door closes with a dull thud. More footsteps; they are getting louder. They come to halt outside the cell door and a loud voice bellows out: <quote>Sleeping on duty, Sefrou? You'll wake up on the other side of this door if the captain catches you!</quote></p>
- <p>The chair scrapes along the ground, and a startled voice, full of indignation, replies: <quote>Curse you, Hadj! The Zakhan doesn't want the Northlander taken to the Grand Hall until sunset. You've cheated me of two hours sleep.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Shut up, Sefrou,</quote> snarls the first voice, <quote>and listen hard. I'm just come from the armoury. Some interesting trinkets were found on the Northlander, worth a great deal of gold I'd say. Seems a pity to let them go to waste, eh?</quote></p>
- <p>The two guards chuckle greedily and discuss at length the good time they will be able to have in the city, once they have sold your equipment.</p>
- <p><quote>I'll take a peek at our friend,</quote> says one of the guards. <quote>I wonder if he's enjoying our hospitality?</quote></p>
- <p>A spy-hole slides opened above your head and you hear a gasp of shock. <quote>He's gone! He's gone! By the Majhan, we'll lose our heads!</quote> You suddenly realize that you cannot be seen so close to the door.</p>
- <p><quote>Let me see,</quote> hisses the other guard, eager to see for himself. You hear the click of a key in the lock; this could be your chance to escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to attack the guards as soon as the door opens, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to move away from the door and stand in the middle of the cell, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press on for about a mile until you can go no further: a huge iron grating blocks the tunnel. The decomposing carcass of a giant lizard has been washed up against the bars. Bones are clearly visible where the dead flesh has rotted or been eaten away. The bars are firmly fixed; it will be impossible to continue in this direction.</p>
- <p>Close to the dead lizard, a narrow stone platform juts out from the wall. Beyond a platform, you notice a low arch leading to some stairs, ascending out of the sewer.</p>
- <p>The sound of Maouk's voice drifts along the tunnel. He is urging his Sharnazim in your direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to climb the steps, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to wait here and fight your pursuers, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having washed off the worst of the dirt, you clamber out of the bath and enter a small antechamber; the room is hot and arid and your clothes are soon as dry as bone. Beyond the antechamber is another hall, this time crowded with people, some seated, others standing, and everyone busy in conversation. These are the free baths of Barrakeesh and the citizens of the capital are justly proud of them. They are the envy of the other desert cities where water is scarce and precious. The citizens treat the baths as a forum, a place for meeting and talking with friends. Much of the conversation you overhear is about the new Zakhan; few speak well of him.</p>
- <p>You wrap yourself in the large Towel and make your way through the crowd towards the main entrance. If you wish to keep the Towel once you are outside, you must mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as 2 Backpack Items, due to its size.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Go away!</quote> shouts the plump landlady of this tavern. <quote>We've no hospitality for those who show no respect to our dead Zakhan.</quote></p>
- <p>Two burly man, wearing wide arm-bands of black silk, roughly push you out of the tavern door. You slip and fall on the dusty cobblestones, grazing your hip and elbows. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. As you get to your feet, Maouk and his warriors rush into the plaza and surround you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to fight them, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to surrender, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stench of the sewer begins to fade and the water becomes less polluted the further you explore in this direction. The sound of Maouk's men has faded and now only the constant gurgle and rush of the fetid water fills your ears. Suddenly your foot is caught by something, and you are thrown off balance. Half-buried in the sludge of the tunnel floor is a rusty suit of armour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect that the west door leads to the palace armoury.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to go through the west door, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you wish to avoid the armoury, leave the chamber by the north door, and <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist the handle but the gate is locked. You are about to turn and run when suddenly the gate flies open: a man stands in the doorway. <quote>Quickly Northlander, I will hide you!</quote> The man steps back to allow you to enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to enter, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to refuse in climb the path towards the archway, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to enter the alley, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick the dial to 76 and press your shoulder against the great bronze plaques, expecting to hear at any moment the creak of hinges. You detect a sound, but it is not the noise of a door opening&emdash;you have chosen the wrong number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your numb arm makes the climb impossible. Valiantly you struggle to escape up the chimney, but when a spur of rock breaks away in your hand, you cannot prevent yourself from tumbling backwards into the bubbling mud.</p>
- <p>Your life comes to a swift end as you are boiled to death in the tar-sorkh of Barrakeesh.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attack is swift and deadly. Before the guard can scream for help, you have silenced him for good with an open-handed chop to the neck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to leave the bodies and escape along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you wish to search them, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A line of toa trees casts a shadow that hides your stealthy approach. The iron portcullis is down, and only a couple of soldiers stand guard inside where there would normally be ten times that number. Suddenly, there is the grate of metal as the portcullis slowly rises. The guards stand back to allow a troop of cavalry to leave the palace. As they gallop past, the horses kick up a huge cloud of dust, covering the luckless guards from head to toe. They cough and sneeze and run to a horse-trough to slake their dust-choked throats. The portcullis is still open, the archway unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you possess the Kai Disciplines of both Camouflage and Hunting, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you decide to attempt to sneak past the drinking guards, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you decide to attack them while their backs are turned, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within seconds, the image of the lock appears in your mind. You use your power to make the lock open and a loud <quote>click</quote> confirms your success.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the symptoms of Limbdeath. The wound has become infected by thousands of Limbdeath microbes, one of many strains of deadly bacteria to be found in the Baga-darooz. None of your Kai skills can prevent the eventual loss of your arm. There is only one cure for the disease&emdash;the infected wound must be treated with the herb Oede within twenty-four hours. Unless you find some Oede by mid-afternoon tomorrow, your arm will become gangrenous. You will then have to choose between losing your arm or losing your life.</p>
- <p>This dreadful realization renews your determination to escape from this terrible place, for you can be sure of one thing: you will find no Oede in the Baga-Darooz.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight with great skill and courage, but you are heavily outnumbered. The black-clad warriors close in and overpower you, dragging you back to a jubilant Maouk.</p>
- <p><quote>You are brave, Kai Lord. But you'll need more than bravery to save you now!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is an armoury log. The pages contain handwritten lists of all the work carried out here. Spears and swords made for the garrison of Kara Kala, ore shipments from the Vakar mountains, weapons due for repair and all manner of daily routines are carefully recorded.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="334" height="128" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="334" height="128" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You are about to discard the log when you notice a folded piece of parchment tucked into the spine. It is a list of dates and numbers with a heading in bold print: <quote><strong>The Bronze Door</strong></quote>. You scan the page and locate today's date. The number listed next to it is <quote>67</quote>. Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;it could be of use at a later stage of your adventure.</p>
- <p>You throw the book back on to the cluttered bench and begin to search for your missing equipment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive into the putrid water, stealing yourself for the ghastly swim you have decided to make. The oily scum fills your nose and mouth and chokes in your throat. You claw your way across the vault to the opposite tunnel and struggle on to a narrow walkway. You are trembling, but it is not the shock of the swim that has made you shiver. Your arm will not function. Your shoulder, wounded when the trapdoor grille fell, stings painfully, and the whole arm below it is numb and useless. Horror engulfs you as you realize what is wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards pull open the door and rush into the cell, their weapons held in readiness to attack. They are brutish men with cruel, war-scarred faces. Their surprise at your sudden appearance soon turns to anger and they shove you back against the far wall.</p>
- <p><quote>Seems we have a trickster, Sefrou,</quote> hisses the taller guard. <quote>A northland illusionist who's lost his way,</quote> croons the other. They snigger at their joke, their eyes full of malevolence and spite.</p>
- <p><quote>Let's teach our guest a lesson,</quote> says the first guard, raising his blade to your throat. <quote>Go fetch the thumbscrews.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to attack the guard who holds the sword, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you do not wish to attack, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint through the archway, keeping a watchful eye on the two drinking guards. The dust is settling, and should they turn round, you will certainly be seen. In your hurry, you fail to see a stone statue close to the wall and catch it with your knee. Stifling a yelp of pain, you hobble into the palace gardens and take cover beneath a leafy kasl bush. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to your injury, but at least you have entered the Grand Palace unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the far side of the small tower, the ledge passes directly beneath a line of windows set high in the north wall. The sandstone blocks have been severely eroded by the strong ocean winds, creating many cracks and hollows which make climbing easy. To your delight, you also discover that the iron window grilles have yet to be locked on this side of the palace.</p>
- <p>You drop to the floor of a corridor that heads off to the west. A wide staircase leads to a network of passages set with alcoves. Each alcove contains a bust or tapestry depicting past Zakhans and Vassagonian victories in long-forgotten wars.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The poster is written from right to left in Vassagonian script. The time you spent learning the language aboard the galley was well spent, for you have little difficulty in translating the proclamation:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>His most illustrious majesty, Zakhan Moudalla the Exalted, has passed into the realm of the Majhan. May his spirit never die! By the grace of the Council of Kadi, the Funtal of Kara Kala and the Judicar of Barrakeesh, it is decreed that Kimah, Emir of Ferufezan, Protector of the Dry Main, shall by right claim the throne of Vassagonia. Through the unity of the Seven Cities, he will lead his people to greatness.</p>
- <p>Long may he reign!</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>A scuffle breaks out at the end of the passage as a handful of Sharnazim try to push their way through the crowd. In the confusion a fruit stall is overturned, and its owner curses the clumsy soldiers at the top of his voice. There is a sudden silence&emdash;the luckless man has been beheaded for his insolence.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="176" height="146" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="176" height="146" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You turn and run, splashing through the shallow drainage channel running the length of the foul passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sharp pain stabs through your jaw as the needle finds its mark. In an instant, the room becomes a spinning vortex of darkness, beyond the reach of pain.</p>
- <p>You awake to find yourself back in the cockroach-infested prison cell from which you originally escaped. You have been disarmed and stripped of all your equipment and can do little now except await the arrival of the Zakhan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a large vestibule constructed from blocks of pink and white marble. A man in a white robe sits near a door in the far wall; he is reading a scroll held close to his face. He has not seen you enter the baths, but he is quick to sense your presence.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A man in a white robe sits near a door in the far wall, reading a scroll</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="633" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="633" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>By the Majhan!</quote> he cries. <quote>You smell worse than a Baknar!</quote> He hurls a towel at you and points to the door. <quote>Take my advice,</quote> he whines, his fingers pinching shut his nostrils. <quote>Don't get undressed&emdash;your clothes need the bath as much as you.</quote></p>
- <p>You grit your teeth in anticipation of the moment when he sees that you are not Vassagonian, but he simply returns to his scroll, holding the parchment close to his short-sighted eyes. You smile as you realize that the man cannot see you clearly enough to know you are a foreigner.</p>
- <p>Beyond the door there is a long hall, leading at regular intervals into smaller open chambers, each with a sunken bath. Perfumed water constantly splashes into the baths and drains away directly into the Baga-darooz. You decide to take the bath attendant's advice and jump straight into the cool water, keeping all your clothes on. You notice a large earthenware jar stands beside the bath, full to the brim with translucent purple oil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you wish to swallow some of the purple oil, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to rub some into your skin, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you decide to ignore the oil, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect91-1-foot" idref="sect91-1">
- <p>If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds, you must still win before turning to <a idref="sect180">Section 180</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard lashes out at your head with his warhammer. Instinctively, you duck, rolling to one side as the weapon strikes sparks from the wall.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Palace Jailer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat, as you are without a weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you win and the fight lasts 4 rounds of combat or less, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.<a id="sect91-1" idref="sect91-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint along the cobblestones but are soon forced to stop. Cavalry appear at the end of the street; they shout and charge at you, three abreast. Maouk hisses a curse. You are shocked by how close his voice sounds, as if he were but a step behind you. You wheel round to confront him, only to see he still stands where he first appeared. A dart is held high in his hand; he hisses another curse and flings the missile into the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You descend the stairs and follow the corridor eastwards, taking care to tread lightly. The bars on windows high in the wall to your right cast latticed shadows across the smooth marble floor ahead. Beneath one of these windows stands a table on which rests a pitcher of water. Your throat is parched, and you stop to take a long drink. Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to climb on to the table and look through the window, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you wish to press on along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall face first into putrid water. The oily slime fills your ears and nose and chokes in your throat. You surface and struggle on to a narrow walkway, only to find that your arm no longer functions. Your wounded shoulder, injured by the falling trapdoor grille, still stings painfully, but now the whole arm below it is numb and useless. Horror overcomes you as you realize what is wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You surface beside a covered skiff. Anxious to avoid the scavengers in the waters of Barrakeesh harbour, you haul yourself aboard and hide beneath the boat's canopy of woven rushes. You are breathless from your swim, but you dare not make a sound; Maouk's men are everywhere, racing along the harbour walls, their eyes searching the water for any sign of you. If you are to escape, you must think of something to divert their attention.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is clotted with a revolting variety of green and black muck and scum. It reaches up to your waist, and, as you force your way through the glutinous mire, the surface film breaks, releasing a vile gas. You have to cover your nose and mouth with your Kai cloak, for the stench is appalling. The sudden splash warns that Maouk's men are not far behind.</p>
- <p>Your foot catches in something buried in the silt of the tunnel floor, and for one brief second, you are seized by total panic. You struggle to kick free but are held fast. Blindly, you stab your weapon beneath the filthy water until your foot is finally freed. As you withdraw your weapon, you half-expect to find some hideous sewer creature impaled upon it. Instead, you discover a human rib cage. You shudder and flick the bones back into the stinking mire.</p>
- <p>The channel soon divides: the new tunnel heads west and the other continues southwards. The splashing has grown steadily louder&emdash;Maouk's men are gaining on you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to head west, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to continue south, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chest is plain except for a small square of red metal bolted to the top. There is no lock, but, instinctively, you avoid opening the lid with your hands in case it is booby-trapped. Nearby, you notice a wooden bucket and a ladle. Using the ladle, you lever open the chest and push back the lid. The chest itself is not booby-trapped, but your caution was well placed; coiled on a bed of jewel-encrusted maces lies a Yas, a non-poisonous but very large Vassagonian snake. A red forked tongue flicks out of its yellow head as it prepares to defend its valuable bed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to attack the Yas, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to flick shut the lid and leave the armoury by the north door, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soft shuffle of stealthy feet warns that you are no longer alone. You whirl around and crouch in readiness for combat; it is this automatic reaction to danger that saves you from a drugged needle fired from a blowpipe. As the tiny missile clips the hood of your cloak, you see the firer reach into his belt pouch for another. Behind him are two warriors armed with sharp, barbed tridents. The three block your passage from the vestibule.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to attack them before the firer can reload his blowpipe, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you do not want to attack them and decide to try to dodge the second blowpipe dart, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step into the sunlight, a voice rings out above the noise of the crowd. <quote>There he is!</quote> It is Maouk. He points at you and a dozen Sharnazim draw their scimitars. <quote>Surrender, Lone Wolf,</quote> he snarls. <quote>You cannot escape.</quote></p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="310" height="95" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="310" height="95" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to fight, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you decide to surrender, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The marble door opens into semi-darkness, and the musty smell of old parchment wafts through the air. Row upon row of neatly stacked, leather-bound books stand upon marble shelves, each one of which is beautifully decorated with intricate arabesques in fine gold leaf. Judging by the dates and inscriptions, you deduce that these books form a catalogue of all the treasures in the Grand Palace, many dating back hundreds of years.</p>
- <p>Every shelf of the small library is filled with books, every shelf, that is, save one where, on a purple silk cloth, lie a Copper Key and a Prism. If you wish to take either, or both, of these items, mark the Prism as a Backpack Item and the Copper Key as a Special Item (which you carry in your pocket) on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>There is no exit from the library other than the marble door by which you entered. After satisfying yourself that nothing useful has been overlooked, you close the door and walk back along the corridor. When you reach the junction, you see a patrol of palace guards ascending the stairs. Without a moment's hesitation, you run towards the east door to avoid being seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57"><link-text>Turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man screams and keels over, writhing on the floor for a few moments before exhaling his last breath. Meanwhile, his partner has scrambled to his feet, forgetting his weapon in his hurry to escape along the passage. You give chase, pausing only to snatch up the discarded trident; you know you must stop him before he warns other guards. You draw back the trident and throw. It strikes him squarely in the back, pitching him forward as it makes impact. He is dead before he hits the floor.</p>
- <p>A search of the dead bodies uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>1 Dagger</li>
- <li>1 Sword</li>
- <li>1 Potion of Alether (Increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of one fight.)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may also take the Blowpipe and the remaining Sleep Dart. If you decide to keep them, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Backpack Items.</p>
- <p>In the robe of the dead blowpipe firer you find a small piece of parchment, on which is written today's date and the number 67. A smile creeps across your face as you realize that this is the number that will open the Bronze Door.</p>
- <p>You hold your breath and twist the dial!</p>
- <choice idref="sect67"><link-text>Turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A thorough search of both bodies uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>1 Sword</li>
- <li>1 Dagger</li>
- <li>1 Warhammer</li>
- <li>6 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Jailer's Keys (Special Item)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of the above items. Remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The Jailer's Keys should be worn attached your belt. You remember to lock the cell door before you hurry off along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel your muscles start to relax. The oil soothes the cuts and bruises which cover your body and restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Take him!</quote> shouts Maouk, <quote>but take him alive!</quote></p>
- <p>You sprint towards the distant galley. The crew are still unaware of the desperate situation. They have not witnessed the murder of the envoy and are still oblivious to your peril. Before you can shout for help, a horseman cuts across your path, blocking your access to the ship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to attack the horseman, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to evade combat by diving into the sea, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you decide to surrender, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attention is drawn to a marble bust standing in an alcove, one of many standing along the south wall. A closer inspection of the bust reveals a hinge at the base of the neck. The head tilts backwards to reveal a tiny lever.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you wish to pull the lever, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you wish to close the head and continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash on to the rider and pull him from the saddle, but you land badly and lose your grip. The courier is first to stagger to his feet; he unsheathes his sword and attacks before you have a chance to stand up.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Courier</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first 3 rounds of combat, as you are still lying on the ground. You cannot evade combat and must fight the courier to the death.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The courier unsheathes his sword and attacks before you have a chance to stand up</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="663" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="663" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate all your healing skill on repairing your damaged lung. Gradually, the pain in your chest subsides and a warm glow spreads from the centre of your body, radiating out to your arms and legs. Your Kai skill heals the wound, but you are still greatly weakened by the loss of blood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you wish to search the guards' bodies, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to ignore the bodies and escape along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Several yards along the new tunnel are more chutes, each covered by an iron grating. Streams of green water pour into the main course, giving off a choking and acrid vapour which attacks your throat and lungs. You wade past the chutes, but you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the effects of the corrosive gas. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop to the street below and run across the marketplace towards the hall. The building is full of people kneeling in prayer. You notice an avenue leading off to the right, which ends at an archway too narrow for more than one horse to pass. To your left, another alley leads down to the harbour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you wish to enter the hall, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to turn right and head for the archway, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you decide to double back to the harbour, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A gigantic creeping reptile hangs from the ceiling, gripping the stone with its long, curved claws. Its huge oval eyes flicker hungrily as it picks up the scent of live human flesh&emdash;your flesh! It is poised to strike, and you cannot evade its attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kwaraz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The giant reptile is very susceptible to psychic power, so if you have the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, add 4 instead of the normal 2 to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are feeling weakened by the heat and by the fatigue of combat, but your spirits are high after having beaten such a formidable enemy. You search the armourer's body and discover 3 Gold Crowns and a Copper Key. If you wish to keep the key, put it in your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you wish to leave the forge room by the north door, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to leave by the west door, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon reach a section of tunnel where the ceiling is much higher. A stone walkway lines the left wall, with steps at regular intervals. You pull yourself on to the walkway and begin to scrape away the worst of the slime that encrusts your legs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you wish to continue along the walkway, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to climb a narrow stair in the left wall, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage ends at a tree-lined plaza. You must find somewhere to hide; your fair skin and your Kai cloak and tunic make you stand out in the city crowd.</p>
- <p>To your left is a small dwelling with a curious wooden sign hanging above the door, carved in the shape of a fish. To your right is a tavern. The sign above the tavern door seems oddly appropriate:</p>
- <signpost>THE HUNTED LORD</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you posses the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you decide to enter the dwelling, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you decide to enter the tavern, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach a point where the chimney is no longer a vertical shaft, but curves into a horizontal tunnel leading south. Although the heat is oppressive, the steam has cleared. Every nerve and tissue in your body seems agonizingly sensitive, and you progress along the narrow shaft with difficulty.</p>
- <p>All hope of signing a peace treaty with the new Zakhan has vanished; your only concern now is to escape from this hellish sewer and somehow get back to Sommerlund as quickly as possible.</p>
- <p>You notice a square vent cover in the ceiling less than ten feet ahead. It is badly corroded, and you have to lie on your back and kick with both feet to force it open. The effort drains your last reserves of stamina, but you are rewarded with success.</p>
- <p>By pure chance you have gained access to the one place in Barrakeesh you most needed to visit&emdash;the public baths.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Placing your ear close to the keyhole, you hear faint but horrible sounds. Screams of agony mingled with hysterical laughter and heart-rending sobs. The crack of a whip and the creaking of a rack confirm your suspicions that a torture chamber lies beyond this door. The terrible sounds make you shudder, and you waste no time in hurrying away from the chamber by the north door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132"><link-text>Turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the stone steps to a small chamber above the tunnel. Here, at least, it is dry, even though the foul sewer gas permeates everything. You follow a narrow passage, first to the west, then to the south as it makes an abrupt left turn. Your heart sinks as you see a dead end loom ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to search for a hidden exit, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you decide to turn around and go back to the walkway, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The twisting alley comes to an end in a small garden square flanked on three sides by tall, domed houses, all with first-floor balconies. Wrought-iron grilles reinforce every window and door.</p>
- <p>You are near the top of a heavy wooden trellis that hangs below a balcony, when Maouk's men burst into the square. Many are armed with heavy bronze crossbows.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender, Lone Wolf!</quote> shouts Maouk, <quote>or my men will pin you to the wall!</quote> The situation is hopeless; at such short range, the Sharnazim cannot fail to hit you. Cursing your misfortune, you leap to the ground, landing at the feet of Maouk. <quote>You are brave, Kai Lord,</quote> he snarls. <quote>But you will need more than bravery to save you now!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To guard raises the blowpipe to his lips. His cheeks swell, and then there is a sharp hiss warning you that another tainted needle speeds towards your head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn or higher, add 1 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If your total score is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If your total is now 4&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You catch both guards totally by surprise. Do not deduct any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you may lose in the first 3 rounds of combat, due to the surprise and ferocity of your attack. You must fight both guards as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Palace Gate Guardians</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you win the combat, you quickly hide the bodies before passing through the entrance into the palace gardens beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dagger hisses through the air and thuds into your chest. You gasp at the sudden pain, clawing at the hilt of the dagger with trembling hands in your panic to draw out the deadly blade. As you stagger backwards, the guard rushes forward, a smile of triumph spreading across his ugly face. You wrench the blade free and turn it on the guard as he dives towards you. He sees the danger but far too late&emdash;the blade has already pierced his heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From out of the gloom, three Sharnazim warriors suddenly appear. The razor-sharp edges of their swords glint in the darkness; thirsty blades gasping for your blood.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="208" height="189" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="208" height="189" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to attack the warriors, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to evade them, you must turn back and swim across the sewer vault. <link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heavy wooden door is reinforced with bands of black iron, held in place by huge bronze studs. You turn the handle, only to find the door is locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess the Jailer's Keys, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The noise grows louder. Suddenly the door latch rattles and a gruff voice growls out above the din: <quote>Break it down!</quote></p>
- <p>Shards of wood and twisted iron are scattered throughout the cellar as the sharp blade of a two-handed axe explodes through the door. The hinges burst from the wall and in run your pursuers, stumbling on the tangle of shattered timbers.</p>
- <p>You spring forward, striking left and right, and bringing two men down before they even see you. The officer, a bull-necked warrior with a flat nose, elbows the others aside and attacks. You strike first, jarring the scimitar from his grasp with a well-aimed blow to his wrist. He bellows like an ox but attacks again, a long-bladed dagger clenched in his uninjured hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Sharnazim Underlord</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The officer, a bull-necked warrior with a flat nose, elbows the others aside and attacks</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect51">You can evade the combat at any stage by escaping through the trapdoor. <link-text>Turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the window ledge and crash feet first into the guards, bowling them over with the surprise your attack. You fight with speed and skill, killing three soldiers before they can regain their balance. However, the noise of combat alerts the mess hall, and a dozen more of the Zakhan's soldiers join the battle. You are quickly overwhelmed by the sheer weight of numbers, and it is only their respect for your bravery and combat prowess that prevents them killing you on the spot.</p>
- <p>You are disarmed and frog-marched to a prison cell, where you are left to await the Zakhan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horse and its dead rider topple from the quayside and splash into the sea. The crew have drawn up the gangplank, forcing you to leap the gap. You fall short and land on the row of oars bristling from the galley's side.</p>
- <p>The wood is wet and slippery, and you have to fight to keep your balance. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total is now 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Keeping in the shadow cast by the tomb, you advance on the north gate. Only two soldiers stand guard were there would normally be twenty. Suddenly, the gate opens to admit a rider. He hands a scroll to the guards before galloping through the open gate. The guards read the scroll, seemingly unaware that the gate is still open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you possess the Kai Disciplines of both Camouflage and Hunting, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you decide to attempt to bribe the guards, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you decide to attack them, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk back along the corridor to the junction in order to get a long run at the door&emdash;you know that if you barge the door in exactly the right place, you will tear loose the lock from the wall. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 10.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If your total is equal to or less than your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, the wall cracks and lock bursts open. <link-text>Turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If your total is greater than your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, the door remains locked. You sustain a badly bruised shoulder and lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You must head off dejectedly along the other passage towards the stairs. <link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your reach a domed sewer-vault where the tunnel widens. A chute descends from the centre of the chamber, ending just a few feet above the oily surface of the water; a mass of food scraps and offal floats beneath the chute, and the stink of rotting meat is overpowering.</p>
- <p>You are about to step into the vault when you detect that the tunnel floor drops away. You freeze just in time to prevent yourself from stepping straight into deep water. The tunnel continues beyond the vault, but over twenty feet of putrid sewage lies between you and the other side.</p>
- <p>The echo of a distant splash reminds you that the Sharnazim are still following. If you possess a Rope, you can try to catch it upon a long metal bar that protrudes from the side of the chute to pull yourself out of the water and swing across to the opposite tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you have a Rope and decide to use it in the manner described above, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you decide to try to swim across the vault to the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you would rather turn round and make your way back to the junction, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the shadow of a doorway, you peer out across the harbour. The square is alive with Maouk's soldiers. It will be far too dangerous to enter the harbour; you must find somewhere else to hide until it is safer.</p>
- <p>Groups of soldiers are searching the houses that border the square, and you are forced to leave the doorway and run back along the alley. As you re-enter the marketplace, you run straight into a dozen Sharnazim led by Maouk himself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to surrender, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch the Herb Pad from the dead warrior's face (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and cover your own mouth with this sweet-smelling pouch. The herbs inside neutralize the foul air, making it easier to breathe. Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>The dead body sinks from view, and you hear the sound of more Sharnazim wading along the tunnel. You cannot outdistance them&emdash;you must hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sift through the vast number of items that litter the dais, separating the following articles, which may or may not be of use:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Silver Comb</li>
- <li>Hourglass</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Healing Potion of Laumspur (restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if swallowed after combat)</li>
- <li>Prism</li>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals (each Meal counts as 1 Backpack Item)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember to make the necessary changes to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before leaving the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move quickly and quietly along the north corridor and soon arrive at another arched passage that heads off to the west. A fierce glow can be seen in the distance, and you hear the hiss of red-hot steel as it is thrust into water and the clang of hammer on anvil&emdash;the unmistakable sounds of a blacksmithy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you wish to go west, towards the noise, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to keep moving north, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the tracks of a Kwaraz in the slimy mud of the walkway. Kwaraz are giant carnivorous reptiles. The number and varying size of the prints suggest that a whole colony of these loathsome creatures inhabit the tunnel. You decide it is far too dangerous to continue in this direction, and instead climb a narrow stairway that leads to a chamber above the tunnel. Here at least it is dry, although the foul sewer gas permeates everything. You follow a narrow passage, first to the west and then south, but your heart sinks as you see a dead end looming ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to search for a hidden exit, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you decide to turn round and return to walkway, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your Kai Discipline to force the creature away. The Bloodlug changes direction and jets towards a squid that has taken refuge in a large copper urn. You continue swimming but keep a watchful eye on the Bloodlug as it engulfs and devours the helpless squid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect135-1-foot" idref="sect135-1">
- <p>It may be reasonable to restore half the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose if you win the combat (note what happens if you lose).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The air of the new tunnel is hot and humid, and as you press on, the putrid gas makes you increasingly nauseous. You are forced to stop&emdash;the vapour is burning your throat and causing painful stomach cramps. Suddenly a noise makes you forget your discomfort; you turn to see that one of Maouk's men has caught up with you. He looms out of the darkness, his face covered by a pad of herbs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Sharnazim Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> due to the effects of the noxious fumes.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>One of Maouk's men looms out of the darkness, his face covered by a pad of herbs</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="664" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="664" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you lose this combat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.<a id="sect135-1" idref="sect135-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once you have unlocked the door, you twist the handle and open it a few inches. You see a stair descending to a small chamber where a black-robed soldier is guarding a pair of iron gates. Through the bars you can see rows of weapons and suits of armour stacked in long racks. A sign fixed to the bars says:</p>
- <signpost>GRAND PALACE ARMOURY</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you want to attack the guard, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you want a close the door and take the other passage, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you realize just how hungry you are. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You pass unseen through the exotic plants that grow everywhere in abundance. The gravelled path divides a lawn of strange, luxuriant, purple grass and leads to a magnificent fountain. A jet of clear blue water catches the sun, reflecting and refracting an eye-dazzling rainbow of colour. You gaze beyond the fountain to where the vaulting towers of the palace soar into the sky, and carefully note the positions of the doors and windows.</p>
- <p>There are two entrances to the Grand Palace from the gardens; you can either go through the palace kitchens or through the Vizu-diar&emdash;the Zakhan's trophy hall. However, only one of these entrances will lead to the Imperial Apothecary, and to the precious Oede herb stored there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking or Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to enter the palace through the kitchens, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to enter through the Vizu-diar, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards pull open the door, and you spring into action. Your clenched fist strikes the first man beneath his bearded jaw, lifting him from the floor with the power of the blow. His sword drops from his hand and clatters to the ground close to your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to pick up the sword, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to ignore the sword and attack the second guard with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are so irritated by the crawling mask of insects covering your skin that you fail to see the rusty metal post sticking out of the water ahead. You walk straight into it and lose your footing. Instinctively, you grab at the post, but like everything else it is covered with sewage, as slippery as Kalte ice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron gates of the armoury are unlocked. You push open the left gate and wince as the shrill squeak of a dry hinge sends a shiver down your spine.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="254" height="106" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="254" height="106" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Inside, at the end of along aisle, is a workbench, littered with spearheads, sword hilts and all manner of armourer's tools. In the midst of this tangled mess is a large, black, leather-bound book.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to open the book, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to ignore the book and search for your confiscated equipment, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to one side, barely escaping the dart as it whistles past your chest.</p>
- <p><quote>Seize him!</quote> screams Maouk, kicking his soldiers onwards through the wreckage. <quote>Don't let him get away this time!</quote> You are now lying on the floor less than a couple of feet away from the trapdoor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to roll over to the trapdoor and escape, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you decide to surrender to Maouk and his warriors, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the water and swim submerged until the pain in your lungs forces you to the surface. Sharnazim are running in every direction, trying to surround the quay and prevent your escape. Gulping another breath, you dive again and swim towards a cluster of small boats less than fifty yards away.</p>
- <p>Through the clear blue water, it is easy to see the rubbish that litters the bed of the harbour; mementoes of all the merchant ships that have docked at the quayside. Clinging to one old anchor is a strange, jelly-like blob. A mass of short tubes sticks out from all its sides, and a long hook-like scoop hangs beneath its rubbery body. Without warning, the blob suddenly jets towards you, propelled by water from its mass of breathing tubes. It is a Bloodlug, and it is hungry for your flesh!</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you wish to fight the creature, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to evade the creature, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You set light to a tar-coated torch and hurl it down into the sewer-hole. There is a tremendous flash and roar; suddenly, all along the alley, plumes of flaming sewage explode skywards. The alley is transformed into a rush of shocked and screaming people, all scrambling to avoid the deluge of burning filth raining down on their heads. The torch has triggered a chain reaction in the Baga-darooz; the inflammable sewer gas has ignited&emdash;everywhere is panic and confusion.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The alley is transformed into a rush of shocked and screaming people, all scrambling to avoid the deluge of burning filth</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="624" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="624" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You run with the crowd through the sewage-stained alleys until you reach a busy market square, unpolluted by the blast. Your eye is caught by a sign hanging above the side door of a large hall:</p>
- <signpost>BARRAKEESH PUBLIC BATHS</signpost>
- <p>You push open the door and slip inside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible sense of dread fills your mind. Your Kai skill is warning you that a horrific and inescapable fate awaits you if you stay in this cell. You follow your instincts and attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wade into the water, thick with scum, and try not to breathe through your nose. The glutinous mire is clotted with green and black filth, and with your every movement the surface cracks, releasing a vile gas. You cover your mouth with your Kai cloak, but the appalling stench makes you retch and choke. A loud splash behind you warns that Maouk's men are not far away, and you quicken your step. At regular intervals, circular chutes disappear into the ceiling. Many are stained bright yellow, white or reddish-brown. This section of the Baga-darooz passes beneath the Linen Quarter of Barrakeesh, where the Guild of Linen-weavers operate their fuller's shops. The chutes dump waste dyes straight into the sewer, making the oily water even more garish in colour.</p>
- <p>You spot a ripple in the water ahead. It moves nearer, the wake of a submerged sewer creature. Instinctively, you flatten yourself against the dye-stained wall as you feel the movement of water against your waist, and watch in fear and fascination as the ripple of water disappears into the tunnel. Suddenly, a fearful scream bursts out of the darkness; Maouk has lost one of his men. The terrible cries of the Sharnazim warrior chill your spine, but your instincts tell you to press on while you have the advantage. The channel soon reaches a junction where another tunnel heads off to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to enter the new tunnel, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to continue northwards, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few minutes, you watch the man working at his anvil, in case he, too, should decide to leave the chamber. However, he continues to work, apparently unaffected by the scorching heat.</p>
- <p>To reach the west door without being seen, you must make your way cautiously across the chamber, dodging from one pillar to the next. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage or Hunting, deduct 2 from the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If your total is now less than 2, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If your total is now 3 or more, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense tells you to beware of the man who helped you. He intends to betray you for a purse of silver.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to stay in his house, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to escape by the window, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you enter, the panel slides shut and you are plunged into darkness. You advance nervously, your hand held before your face to part the cobwebs hanging in festoons from the low ceiling. You are a few feet away from what appears to be a dead end when you tread on a pressure plate, which activates another panel that slides back to reveal a small chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the door to the Vizu-diar without being seen, only to find that it is securely bolted from the inside. You are about to curse your bad luck when you notice a window set into an elaborately carved panel above the door; its iron shutter is open.</p>
- <p>In spite of your injured arm, you successfully climb the nail-studded door and drop through the window into the silence of the trophy room. An eerie collection of stuffed heads lines the walls of this private chamber. Most are those of reptilian desert creatures, souvenirs of imperial hunting expeditions into the Dry Main. Among the snake-like trophies, and more gruesome, are human heads! They are ghoulish battle honours, the heads of enemy commanders slain in battle during the countless wars waged by Vassagonia.</p>
- <p>You hurry out of the Vizu-diar and into a long marble corridor, where the walls are inlaid with veins of gold and pearls. It leads to a large hall where palace guards and brightly robed courtiers are walking to and fro, but a colonnade of statues provides all the cover you need to reach a distant staircase unseen. Stealthily, you sprint up the staircase to arrive at a junction where passages head off to the east and west. At the end of each is a door with a symbol engraved into the wall above. The symbol above the east door depicts a mortar and pestle; the symbol above the west door, an open book.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="334" height="128" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="334" height="128" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to investigate the east door, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to investigate the west door, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor heads north but soon ends at a junction where another passage runs across from east to west. Cautiously, you peer around the corner, but there are no signs of any guards. At the end of the east passage you can see a flight of steps descending out of view; to the west, you see a closed door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you wish to go east, towards the stairs, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you decide to go west, towards the door, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your keen eye falls upon a narrow fissure in the tunnel wall. The gap is near to the level of the scum and can barely be seen in the darkness. You squeeze inside, steeling yourself as the foul water rises up to your chin. The Sharnazim pass within inches of your hiding place, and you have to fight the urge to vomit as a wave of sewage laps your face. <quote>He has taken the south tunnel,</quote> echoes an angry voice. <quote>Quickly&emdash;don't waste your time here!</quote></p>
- <p>It seems an eternity before the Sharnazim retrace their steps and disappear back along the tunnel. With a sigh of relief, you emerge from the fissure, but catch your foot in something embedded in the silt of the tunnel floor and lose your balance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself against the weathered stone and try to avoid looking down at the courtyards and gardens of the palace, hundreds of feet below. You bite your lip and wait for the guards to pass, but they do not pass. It is nearly sunset, and they have come to shut the iron grilles of the palace windows. You hear the creak of dry hinges and the click of bolts&emdash;sounds that send a shiver down your spine. You realize that you are now locked out.</p>
- <p>To your left, the ledge continues around outside of a dome; inside this is the mess hall. If you can only inch your way around the tower, you may be able to find an open window on the other side.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Savant, you may add another 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If your total score is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If your total score is now 3&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If your total score is now 9&endash;13, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Maouk orders his black-clad troops to search the area, threatening them with death if they allow you to escape. You bite your lip and wait for a chance to run.</p>
- <p>Creeping from one boat to the next, you reach a narrow flight of stone steps. At the top of the steps, beyond a small paved square, lies a maze of crooked alleyways that disappear into the shadows of the Thieves' Quarter. You are less than twenty feet from safety when a cry echoes across the water: <quote>There he is!</quote></p>
- <p>You sprint along the deserted passage and climb a stairway into an open courtyard. The sound of hooves clattering on the cobblestones below urges you onwards. There are three possible exits from the courtyard: a high, nail-studded gate to the left; an alley to your right; and a straight, paved pathway that leads to an arch. You must make a quick decision for Maouk's men are close at your heels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to enter the gate, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to enter the alley, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you decide to take the straight pathway through the arch, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect154-1-foot" idref="sect154-1">
- <p>Though you may purchase any of the above, it is likely that you are limited to one of each potion.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You part the bead curtain that hangs across the doorway and enter the cool interior. The light is poor and the room gloomy, for the windows are obscured by sheaves of herbs and plants. You are studying a curious row of coloured bottles when a woman appears. She has piercing green eyes and her red hair is raised, bound with rings of jadin. Softly, she speaks to you.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="320" height="105" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="320" height="105" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Northlander. I sense you are a warrior&emdash;or am I mistaken?</quote> As you hesitate to answer, she shrugs her shoulders and searches through a pile of parchments stacked on top of a wine casket. She blows away the dust before handing you a yellowed sheet. It is a list of merchandise, written in Sommlending:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Potion of Alether (increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 for the duration of 1 combat)&emdash;4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Potion of Gallowbrush (induces sleep for 1-2 hours per dose)&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur (restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Vial of Larnuma Oil (restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Tincture of Graveweed (causes sickness and loss of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;1 Gold Crown</li>
- <li>Tincture of Calacena (causes terrifying hallucinations for 1-2 hours per dose)&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above;<a id="sect154-1" idref="sect154-1-foot" class="footnote" /> all potions, vials and tinctures are Backpack Items. You then leave the shop and continue along the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the view, you judge that this window is set high up in the south wall of the Grand Palace. Far below you can see the buildings of the capital, in miniature clusters inside the white city wall. To the south-east lies Lake Inrahim, an immense salt-water plain that is completely dry and cracked. To the north, a road stretches across the causeway to the town of Chula, just visible on the horizon. To the south-west lie the barren, sun-scorched Dahir mountains and the shifting ocean of sand known as the Dry Main.</p>
- <p>The bars of the window are badly corroded; it would be easy to dislodge them. However, the drop of several hundred feet to the city below means that there is no hope of escape this way. You climb down from the table and hurry along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After concentrating on the lock for several minutes, you realize that it is connected to an alarm. If you turn the lock to the wrong number, the alarm will be triggered, alerting the entire palace guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you possess the Kai Disciplines of Mind Over Matter and Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you do not have both of these skills, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The house smells strongly of burnt incense. You enter a narrow hallway lined with chairs and walk slowly along the central aisle towards a fountain, flanked by a pair of massive orange-red pillars. A man, dressed from head to toe in black, appears from behind the left-hand pillar and walks towards you.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, you hear Maouk's men enter the Plaza, and cast an anxious glance towards the open door. The man sees you are nervous and silently points to a cellar door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to hide in the cellar, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you wish to leave the hallway, return to the plaza by <link-text>turning to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a gallery, which houses a beautiful mosaic. Thousands of tiny fragments of pearl and gold shimmer in the light of the evening sun, glancing rainbows of colour across the high marble walls. A group of palace courtiers ambles through the gallery, and you are forced to hide behind a huge pillar. You wait until their footsteps have faded into the distance before emerging into light.</p>
- <p>All hope of signing a peace treaty has long vanished, and your only concern now is to escape from the Grand Palace and, somehow, return home to Sommerlund as quickly as possible. Hurrying out of the gallery, you follow the passage westwards and soon reach a junction where the passage turns abruptly to the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You batter your way through the door successfully, but having gathered momentum, you cannot stop, and fall headlong down a flight of stairs on the other side.</p>
- <p>You landed in a heap on the hard marble floor of an antechamber, (you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) barely a few feet away from an armed soldier, who is guarding the doors to the palace armoury. He is startled by your dramatic entrance but quickly regains his senses and attacks.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Armoury Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first 3 rounds of combat, as you are lying on the ground. You cannot evade combat and must fight the guard to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you win, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your desire to leave this treacherous city is overcome by your fear of losing your arm. You must get the Oede herb, even though it means you will have to enter the very place you are most anxious to avoid&emdash;the Grand Palace.</p>
- <p>The alley follows a tortuous route through the Mikarum, finally leading you to the <foreign xml:lang="x-vassagonian"><quote>Horm-tas-Lallaim</quote></foreign>: the Tomb of the Princesses. Beyond the tomb, the Grand Palace rises like a massive white pantheon.</p>
- <p>You suddenly recall a legend told to you by your Kai masters long ago: <quote>The Nemesis of the Black Zakhan</quote>. The Black Zakhan was a brutal tyrant, the cruellest of an evil lineage that ruled over the desert empire long ago. The barbaric excesses of his reign have never been forgotten in the Lastlands. The Grand Palace was built by his army of slaves, prisoners from countries he had conquered in war. The palace became his obsession; he personally oversaw its entire construction and punished the workers personally if there was the slightest delay. He butchered his subjects indiscriminately and in the most terrible fashion. His favourite form of execution was for the victim to be sawn in half from head to foot until the body fell in two pieces. However, it was the mass execution of the slaves who built the Grand Palace that made him infamous. He slaughtered every slave worker so that his enemies could never learn of the secret treasure chambers he had had constructed. Among the slaves were his only daughters, Kebilla and Sousse, who openly opposed their father's cruelty and tried to prevent the executions. In a blind rage, he ordered that they should be the first to die.</p>
- <p>It would have been better for the Zakhan, and for Vassagonia, if he himself had died that day. He lived for another two years, but his mind was unhinged by guilt, and he was tortured by self-loathing and despair. In the Grand Palace, the silence of the night was frequently broken by the Zakhan's moans and cries, as he wandered from room to room looking for his daughters. When he died, he was laid beside them, here, in the Tomb of the Princesses.</p>
- <p>From where you stand, you can see two entrances to the Grand Palace; a spike-topped gate in the north wall, and an arch in the west wall, blocked by an iron portcullis. The palace is usually heavily guarded, but there are very few guards today; most are searching for you in the city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to approach the north gate, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to approach the west arch, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to search for some other way of entering the Grand Palace, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are very lucky that your enemy was only trying to knock you unconscious. Restore half the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lost in combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull yourself into the left chimney and pause to catch your breath. The scalding steam hurts your lungs; and every move becomes a tremendous strain, for your hands and feet are now swollen and sore. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point before continuing your climb.</p>
- <p>You hook your fingers into a jagged crack in the wall of the sweltering chimney and try to draw yourself upwards. Suddenly, a wave of fear engulfs you&emdash;something is crawling up your forearm. You have disturbed a nest of loathsome arachnids.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Steamspiders</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast. If you have lost the use of one arm, you cannot fight these biting horrors, for you will inevitably slip and fall into the tar-sorkh. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. This represents the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose (0 = 10) as you climb past the Steamspiders' nest.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Suddenly a wave of fear engulfs you as something crawls up your forearm</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="567" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="567" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you are still alive after climbing past the nest, or if you fight the Steamspiders and win, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you wait for the return of the guard, you are taunted and ridiculed by the other bully. He describes with relish all the horrible tortures that await you and is greatly disappointed when the other guard returns empty-handed. <quote>The Zakhan doesn't want our northern friend damaged. He's got something special planned for him this evening,</quote> he snarls.</p>
- <p>Wicked grimaces spread across their faces as they turn to leave the cell. Both now have their backs towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you wish to attack the guards, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to remain as you are, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is becoming thicker, and the stench of the sewer gas increasingly more vile and nauseating. Suddenly the air becomes choked with thousands of tiny flies, and every time you gasp for breath you feel the thick fur of pulped bodies in your throat. The black specks build up like paste around your eyes, mouth and nostrils, and the sharp tangy taste in your mouth makes you retch. Lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>As if it answer to your prayers, an iron ladder appears from out of the gloom. It is fixed to the tunnel wall and leads up to a circular stone trapdoor in the ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to climb the ladder, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you wish to ignore the ladder and press on along in the insect-choked tunnel, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard clutches at his wounds and drops lifeless to the ground. You see that the other man is recovering from your blow and is clawing at the cell door to try to pull himself to his feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to attack this guard, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to overpower him and capture him alive, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You knead your numb arm in an effort to massage some life back into it, but it is useless; the muscles are limp and nerveless. The only consolation is that it is not your weapon arm, but as long as you are suffering from this disease, you cannot use a shield of any sort. Deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;the lost points may be recovered if ever you should regain the use of your arm.</p>
- <p>You turn your attention to your surroundings in an effort to find some way of escape from the nightmarish sewer. The passage ahead winds and curves like a giant snake, and the foul air that drifts towards you is hot and humid. You have shaken off your pursuers, but you now have the problem of your arm to solve.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the door and hurry into the welcoming cool of the room beyond. You notice a large drawbar on this side of the door and instinctively lock it to delay any would-be pursuers. The room is empty, save for some clothing draped over the back of a wrought-iron chair. Judging by the size and cut of the material, the clothes must belong to the armourer.</p>
- <p>You can hear noises echoing from a passage to the east; the voices of hungry guards and the distinctive clatter of plates.</p>
- <p>You climb a wide stairway and follow a network of passages towards the west. They are lined with alcoves that contain marble busts and beautiful tapestries, each depicting a past Zakhan or a long-forgotten battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect168-1-foot" idref="sect168-1">
- <p>If the fight lasts longer than 3 rounds, you must still win before turning to <a idref="sect46">Section 46</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a tiger-like bound you are among the startled guards. The blowpipe firer raises his weapon, but a well-aimed kick to the forehead counters his move. He somersaults backwards, cracking his head against the wall with a sickening thud. A trident flashes towards your ribs; you sidestep and grab the haft with your free hand, pulling the guard off balance. He stumbles forward and falls flat on his face. You turn just in time to face the third guard&emdash;his trident is poised to stab you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vestibule Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you win the combat and the fight lasts 3 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If the fight lasts longer than 3 rounds, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.<a id="sect168-1" idref="sect168-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a wide street where vendors compete for space for their stalls beneath the overhanging balconies. The market is crowded with people; they each wear a black sash as a mark of respect to their dead Zakhan, but here, unlike in most of Barrakeesh, business continues as normal.</p>
- <p>You pass a stall festooned with black sashes, each costing 2 Gold Crowns. If you wish to buy a sash, pay the vendor and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item (which you wear over your tunic). You hurry away from the stall and dodge into a narrow passage lined with eating houses and small taverns, where the smell of food is mingled with the odour of stale wine, and the air is alive with chatter and gossip. Your attention is drawn to a notice freshly pasted to a tavern wall. The bold headline reads:</p>
- <signpost>THE ZAKHAN IS DEAD&emdash;LONG LIVE THE ZAKHAN</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to stop to read the poster, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The combined mastery of these Kai Disciplines enables you to slip past the guards undetected. By the time they resume their correct guard positions, you have safely made your way into the palace gardens.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A panel in the alcove slides aside to reveal a secret, dark and very narrow passage. A pair of footprints can clearly be seen in the dust-covered floor, leading into the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to enter the secret passage, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you decide to avoid the passage, close the secret panel and continue along the corridor, and <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Come in, stranger. Welcome to my humble tavern,</quote> says the plump landlady of the eating house. <quote>We have wine and food and rooms a-plenty.</quote></p>
- <p>At this moment, you hear Maouk's men enter the plaza and cast an anxious glance towards the open door. The landlady sees that you are nervous; she points to the cellar stairs and says in a hushed voice: <quote>Do not worry&emdash;we share your fear of the new Zakhan. Quickly, you must hide.</quote> There is no time to hesitate. Maouk's warriors are already approaching the tavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Judging by the direction of the sluggish flow, the right channel appears to head off to the north. The vast tide of sewage and garbage from the Baga-darooz is swept out towards the coast, until it emerges at Chiras, a village north-west of the capital. There it makes life both difficult and unpleasant for the poor local fishermen (especially during the summer months). If you take the north channel, you should eventually reach the coast.</p>
- <p>The left channel heads south, running below the very heart of the capital. In the maze of tunnels that feed into the Baga-darooz, you should be able to find at least one exit to the streets above.</p>
- <p>Straight ahead, the channel leads off to the west. It is by far the least fetid and contaminated of the three. During the voyage, you remember <quote>The Stink</quote> telling you about the Grand Madani: a great aqueduct over forty miles long, which channels freshwater from the River Da into the city. As a result, the citizens of Barrakeesh, unlike the inhabitants of other Vassagonian cities, enjoy a lavish supply of fresh water. The west channel will lead to that water source.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to take the north channel, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you wish to take the south channel, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to take the west channel, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spring forward and strike the taller of the guards, slamming your clenched fist into the nape of his neck. He groans and sinks to his knees, his sword clattering to the ground close by your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to pick up the sword, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to ignore the sword and attack the second guard with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you find a suitable hiding place, three Sharnazim wade into view. <quote>Leave him to me, you fools!</quote> booms a voice, and the warriors make way for Maouk, who appears from the shadows&emdash;a dart held high in his hand. He hisses a curse and flings the missile at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect176-1-foot" idref="sect176-1">
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> all Weapons, Special Items, Gold Crowns, and your Backpack but note them elsewhere, in case you should find them later.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are stripped of your Backpack, your Weapons, your Gold and all of your Special Items.<a id="sect176-1" idref="sect176-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Your hands are tied behind your back and you are pushed head first into the waiting carriage. <quote>Back to the palace!</quote> commands Maouk as he climbs aboard and slams the door. <quote>The Zakhan awaits his prize.</quote></p>
- <p>You fight to free the cords that bind you, but Maouk is quick to see the danger. He grabs your arm and forces a dart into your skin. As sleep engulfs your senses, you hear Maouk's wicked laughter fading into the silence.</p>
- <p>Make a necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and list all the items that you have had confiscated on a separate piece of paper, for reference in case you should discover them later in your adventure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the Kwaraz a killing blow, three Sharnazim wade out of the dark sewer. They have discarded their black robes and they are naked to the waist. Their muscular chests are decorated with a large, blue tattoo of an eagle's claw. As they struggle out of the water, they fix you with a malicious stare and unsheathe razor-sharp scimitars.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Three Sharnazim wade out of the dark sewer, naked to the waist</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="628" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="628" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to attack the Sharnazim, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to evade them by climbing the narrow stone stairs, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway down the stairs when the guard realizes what you are doing. He leaps to his feet and unsheathes his sword; you cannot evade him now and you must fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Armoury Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you in the combat, you may search his body, and <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you would rather ignore the body and enter the armoury, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All manner of strange and exotic plants, oils, potions and medicaments fill the shop windows, and the smell of the herb-filled street is intoxicating. There is a sudden bustle of activity at the end of the street. The crowd disperses, melting into the shops as if into thin air. A man stands before you, his face is streaked with sweat, his turquoise robes torn and heavily stained. It is Maouk&emdash;he has survived the Baga-darooz.</p>
- <p><quote>Were it not for the Zakhan, I would kill you here and now,</quote> hisses Maouk, his face a mask of hate. <quote>But I will not lose my head for a cowardly Sommlending.</quote></p>
- <p>His insult enrages you, but you control your anger. You sense he is not alone; eyes are watching you at every window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you wish to attack Maouk, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to turn and run back along the street, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your enemy collapses at your feet, you notice that the other guard has recovered from your punch. He pulls a dagger from his boot and draws back his hand to throw.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this kill, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense or Hunting, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If your total is now 6&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You root through all the drawers and cupboards of the workbench, smashing locks when they refuse to open, only to be disappointed. These drawers and cupboards do not contain your missing equipment.</p>
- <p>All hope of signing a peace treaty with the new Zakhan has vanished; your only concern now is to find your equipment, escape from the Grand Palace and, somehow, return home to Sommerlund as quickly as possible. You pull aside a latticed partition and enter a small antechamber. Narrow stones steps lead up to an open door in the north wall, beside which stands a wooden chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to climb the steps and enter the door, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to investigate the wooden chest, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive at a high-vaulted chamber with a large, nail-studded door set into the south wall. A rack standing near to the door holds a Spear and a Broadsword. You may take either or both of these if you wish. To the north, beneath a beautifully decorated horseshoe arch, is another passage that leads out of the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to enter the passage, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to listen at the door, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior's head suddenly emerges from the sewer hole. He lashes at your legs, tearing a nasty gash in your calf. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. In anger and pain, you raise your foot and stamp on the man's head with all your strength. He screams and falls back into the sewer, and you hear a loud, resounding splash. You replace the stone lid and drag a heavy barrel across it before making your way through the maze of city streets.</p>
- <p>All hope of signing a peace treaty with the new Zakhan has vanished; your only concern now is to escape from Barrakeesh and, somehow, return to Sommerlund as quickly as possible. Eventually you reach a busy market square. Your eye is caught by a sign hanging above the side entrance to large building:</p>
- <signpost>BARRAKEESH PUBLIC BATHS</signpost>
- <p>By this time, the smell of your clothes is making you feel quite ill. You have no hesitation in opening the door and slipping inside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stare out across the harbour, you notice a large, white-domed warehouse near to the water's edge. A platform on the upper floor overhangs a merchant dhow moored at the quay below. On this platform are several earthenware tuns: huge spice containers destined for the trading emporiums of Ragadorn. You focus your attention on one of these tuns and concentrate all your Kai skill into making it move. Sweat pours down your face from the strain, but you soon hear a distant crash that confirms your success. The tun has fallen and shattered on the deck of the dhow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The footsteps grow louder and then suddenly stop. You hear whispering and Maouk slowly appears from the shadows, his henchmen at his heels. <quote>Caught like a wolf in the trap,</quote> he sniggers, a dart held high in his sinewy fist. He hisses a curse and flings the missile at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill to disguise your Sommlending accent, you call out to the guard. <quote>Quick! We need your help&emdash;the Northlander is escaping!</quote></p>
- <p>Immediately, the guard leaps to his feet and charges up the stairs towards the door. You wait until he reaches the top step before you attack&emdash;one kick to the knee sends him tumbling backwards into the chamber, where he falls in a heap at the foot of the stairs. You enter the chamber, poised to strike again should the guard recover and attack. However, this time your caution is unnecessary; the guard is dead, his neck was broken in the fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to search his body, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you wish to ignore the body and enter the armoury, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the creature; it is a Kwaraz, a giant, creeping reptile. Kwaraz are native to the Maakenmire swamp, hundreds of miles to the west of Vassagonia, but they thrive in any hot, damp and fetid environment, and it strikes you that the Baga-darooz sewer is an ideal breeding ground for these deadly beasts. The Kwaraz moves along the ceiling, gripping the stone with its long, curved claws&emdash;its oval eyes opening wider and wider.</p>
- <p>Kwaraz are very susceptible to psychic power. By using your Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, you persuade it that you are not at all appetizing, and it soon loses interest. You watch with a mixture of fear and fascination as the huge reptile disappears along the tunnel. Suddenly, a fearful scream bursts out of the darkness; Maouk has lost one of his men. A shiver runs down your spine, but your instincts tell you to press on while you have the advantage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tavern is crowded with people who are seated at a long, stone counter decorated with fragments of coloured marble. Large earthenware jars, full of spicy foods, are set into the counter, and serving girls are busy attending to the hungry customers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you are wearing a Black Sash, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you do not possess a Black Sash, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The courier screams as he falls but is dead before his head hits the cobblestones. You waste little time dragging his body into the shadows. You don his loose robe and raise the hood, concealing your tunic and your face. In the pocket of the robe you find a scroll: the pass needed to enter the Grand Palace.</p>
- <p>The dead courier's horse has bolted and fled, but your appearance at the gate on foot does not seem to arouse any suspicion. The guards inspect the scroll with bored indifference and allow you to pass through the gate into the palace gardens beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely taken a dozen steps before you are seen. The giant armourer raises a massive hammer and strides forward, a bloodthirsty snarl escaping from between his clenched teeth. You prepare to defend yourself, but you are momentarily stunned when you see that the hammer is part of his right arm: it is, in fact, an enormous steel fist.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The giant armourer raises a massive hammer and strides forward</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="644" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="644" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The armourer bellows a war-cry and you react just in time. The hammer tears a chunk of stone from the wall, less than an inch above your scalp.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hammerfist The Armourer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat due to the terrible heat of the forge room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to inch your way along the row of oars until you reach the ship's rail, where eager hands catch hold of your cloak and pull you to safety. Maouk's voice booms out across water. <quote>Surrender the Kai Lord to me. The Zakhan commands it. Your lives and the lives of all your kin will be forfeit if you disobey this order!</quote></p>
- <p>The crew stare in each other in sorrow and dismay&emdash;they know that Maouk's words are no idle threat. You cannot expect these men to sacrifice their families for you, so you must quickly decide on an alternative plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you decide to surrender to Maouk, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to dive overboard and attempt an escape, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sweltering heat is overwhelming. Three times you nearly slip and fall and are saved only by your quick wits and natural survival instincts from a gruesome end in the tar-sorkh. You manage to climb twenty feet of the chimney, but the price is high. Your fingers and knees are skinned and bleeding, and your legs ache with fatigue. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114"><link-text>Turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump to one side as the dagger whistles towards you, skimming barely an inch from your throat. The guard stares in open-mouthed disbelief. He is now unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to attack the guard, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to overpower him and capture him alive, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Yas is a constrictor: it kills its prey by crushing them to death with the coils of its powerful body. Its sleepy eyes have now opened and the red-rimmed slit pupils fix you with a mesmerizing stare. You suddenly realize that the Yas is trying to hypnotize you. Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Yas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A forge has been constructed in the centre of a massive circular chamber, its funnel-like chimney stretching up to the roof. The heat had become unbearable long ago, but now you feel as if you have walked straight into a raging furnace.</p>
- <p>Two men, naked except for small loin-cloths, work the bellows that feed the forge. Sweat pours from their bodies, and they frequently stop to gulp ladlefuls of water from a trough set in the stone floor. An armourer hammers a strip of red-hot iron at an anvil close to the flames. He is massive; his huge, muscled shoulders and powerful chest are as wide as the other two men put together.</p>
- <p>The bellows men stop work and leave the chamber; one by the door in the north wall, the other by the door in the west wall. The big man continues to hammer at the anvil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to follow the man who left by the north door, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to follow the man who left by the west door, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to attack the armourer working at the anvil, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to leave the chamber and retrace your steps along the corridor to take the other passage, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that a large table dominates the room; it is set with wine and meat, and freshly-baked loaves of bread.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to eat some of this mouth-watering food, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to leave the room by the window, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Maouk pulls his hand from his robe, a dart held tightly in his sinewy fist. He hisses a curse and flings the missile at your chest. You gasp with shock as the missile strikes home&emdash;you are too close to avoid being hit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the officer's body slumps lifelessly across the shattered cellar door, the Sharnazim back away and step aside. Maouk himself appears in the doorway, a dart held high in his hand. <quote>I have you now!</quote> he hisses, and flings the missile at your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If your total is now 7&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grasp the frightened guard in a secure head-lock and threaten to break his neck if he does not answer your questions. He immediately promises to tell you everything he knows. He says that the new Zakhan fears that you are an assassin, sent by his enemies in the west. He claims to hate the new Zakhan himself. He is only a simple jailer, he says, and knows nothing more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon a raised platform, carpeted with scarlet fur, sits the Vassagonian Emperor, Zakhan Kimah. He is robed in gold but devoid of all ornamentation. In his hand is an orb of black metal, and in his eye an ice-cold cruelty that chills your spine. The Zakhan is a man of awesome countenance, but he pales in the shadow of his companion.</p>
- <p>Before him stands the cause of your terror. A helm as black as death itself hides the face, but the stench of decay and a hideous sepulchral voice betray the identity.</p>
- <p><quote>Give me Lone Wolf!</quote></p>
- <p>It is the fell voice of a mortal enemy&emdash;a Darklord of Helgedad. As the Zakhan rises to his feet, you notice a flicker of doubt, or perhaps of fear, dim his cruel gaze, but he is quick to mask it. <quote>He will be brought to you at sunset in exchange for the Orb of Death. It is agreed.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You have the Orb,</quote> echoes the chilling voice. <quote>Give me Lone Wolf!</quote></p>
- <p>The Zakhan hides his fear well, but time is not on his side. The game of bluff he is playing is deadly. However, the fact that he has not yet been discovered is evidence of his powerful will, for you sense the Darklord is persistently clawing and probing at his mind.</p>
- <p><quote>You will get your Northlander, Lord Haakon,</quote> says the Zakhan, his voice curt with anger, <quote>when you tell me why your servants defile the Tomb of the Majhan. You claim to have no need for gold and jewels&emdash;why then do you plunder the graves of our ancestors?</quote></p>
- <p>A deathly quiet fills the hall; only the unnatural hiss of the Darklord's breath disturbs the silence. <quote>This land, this insignificant speck of sand, harbours two small thorns that prick our skin. We seek to remove them both&emdash;forever. The fledgling Kai, Lone Wolf, is the thorn that denies us Sommerlund. The Tomb of the Majhan hides the other thorn that threatens us&emdash;the accursed <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>.</quote></p>
- <p>Your heart pounds as the words echo in your head. The <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>! Suddenly, the reason why you have been enticed into a deadly trap becomes clear, and the sinister truth is revealed.</p>
- <p>The <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite> is one of the oldest legends of Sommerlund. With the wisdom of the Magnakai, Sun Eagle, the first Kai Grand Master, instilled the disciplines into the warriors of the House of Ulnar, the bloodline of your king, that were to save your land from devastation at the hands of the Darklords. The <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite> was lost hundreds of years ago, but its wisdom was kept alive, handed down through generations of Sommlending warriors so that they could share the strength to resist their eternal enemies, the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>If the Darklords discover and destroy the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>, the secrets will be lost forever, and when you die, the Kai will become extinct. However, if you discover the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite> first and deny the Darklords their prize, all the wisdom of the Magnakai will be revealed to you. Through its wisdom you will become strong, strong enough to reach the ultimate achievement for a Sommlending warrior&emdash;to become a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- <p>However, the peril and the glory of the quest that lies ahead is distracting you from more immediate danger. To discover this danger and to begin the quest for the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>, turn to Part Two of Shadow on the Sand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Begin your adventure at 201.</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="part2">
- <meta><title>Part II</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, you catch sight of two warriors creeping towards you from a passage to your right. They are clad in jet-black armour and scarlet robes, and their hideous death-masks identify them as Drakkar warriors. They are men, but they are evil men, as evil as the Darklords whom they serve.</p>
- <p>One of them holds a razor-fanged Akataz, a creeping leathery war-dog, straining on a chain leash. The Drakkar hisses and the Akataz springs towards your throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to fight this creature, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to try to evade the attack and escape, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass under an arch where two brass-gilded, conical towers gleam like gold and enter a marketplace crowded with squabbling merchants. Exotic carpets, brightly coloured material and all manner of foods are being bought, sold and haggled over. The north side of the marketplace is devoted to the auction of douggas. The sleek but noisy desert beasts are being paraded, for the benefit of the bidders, around a paddock adjoining their stables. Just past the stables, a street vanishes into the Carpet-weavers' Quarter of Ikaresh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to investigate the stables, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to ask one of the merchants if they know where Tipasa lives, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect386">If you wish to leave the marketplace, continue along the adjoining street and <link-text>turn to 386</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a sickening and acidic smell as a great gout of green blood gushes from the Vordak's red robe. The creature screams and topples from view, its mangled corpse spiralling downwards.</p>
- <p>Sheathing your weapon, you grab the reins and fight to regain control of your injured mount. You have slain the Vordak, but the battle is not yet won. The Itikar is losing a lot of blood and could lapse into unconsciousness at any moment to drop you like a stone on to hard Lake Inrahim. Suddenly you see something in the distance&emdash;something that renews your faith in miracles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the stone radiates pure evil. If you can only turn the stone's power against the Darklord, it will drain his strength and make him fade from this dimension. Although the stone cannot kill Haakon, it can at least banish him to a place where he can no longer harm you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to try to grab the stone and turn it on your enemy, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect390">If you wish to ignore the stone and attack the Darklord with your own weapon, <link-text>turn to 390</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All you can hear above the wind that screams past your face are the gleeful howls of the Drakkarim. They are watching you fall to certain doom.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If the number you have picked is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no reply to your first knock. You are about to knock again when the door opens a few inches and the red-rimmed eyes of an old woman stare out from the darkness. <quote>Banedon!</quote> she exclaims, her voice hoarse and shaky. <quote>Thank the gods it is you.</quote></p>
- <p>She ushers you both inside and locks the door. The house is sparsely furnished and what little is there is either damaged or broken. <quote>They have taken him, Banedon, they have taken my husband&emdash;the men with the faces of the dead. Ten days ago. They came like shadows in the night.</quote></p>
- <p>She breaks down, her frail body wracked by sobs. Banedon comforts her as best he can, but you sense he shares her bitter loss. The Drakkarim have taken Tipasa, of that there is little doubt. By now they will have made him tell everything he knows about the Tomb of the Majhan.</p>
- <p><quote>We will find him, I promise,</quote> says Banedon, wiping the tears from the old woman's face, <quote>but you must try to help us if you can. Tipasa always kept a diary of his travels&emdash;do you have it still?</quote></p>
- <p>A flicker of hope shines in the old woman's eyes. <quote>Yes, it is here. He told me to hide it when the evil men came for him.</quote></p>
- <p>She kneels at an empty fireplace and prises a loose brick from the chimney; a leather-bound book drops from its hiding place into her hand. She gives it to Banedon who studies the yellowed pages, his face lined in thought. You notice that the book is full of cryptic symbols, numbers and pictograms.</p>
- <p><quote>They are drawn by the night stars,</quote> says Banedon, tracing his finger along the astronomical drawings. <quote>They hold the secret, I know, but without my star charts we cannot hope to find the tomb. We must return to the <cite>Skyrider</cite> at first light. There I shall be able to make some sense of this book.</quote></p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="334" height="128" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="334" height="128" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You discover little of interest: 8 Gold Crowns and a Brass Whistle on a chain around the guard's neck. You may take these if you wish, but remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Suddenly, a noise alerts you to unwelcome company; Drakkarim are rushing along the tiled pathway that leads to the pens. Without a moment's hesitation, you turn and run inside the Itikar's enclosure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>By the Gods!</quote> cries Banedon. <quote>A vaxeler!</quote></p>
- <p>The old man's face is a mask of green putrescent sores. The pupils of his eyes are yellow, and his ragged grey lips hang in tatters. Banedon grabs your arm and pulls you away from the wretched man.</p>
- <p><quote>He has vaxelus, Lone Wolf, a terrible disease that rots the skin. It is highly contagious&emdash;our lives are in peril.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you possess some Oede herb, you may give it to the poor vaxeler by <link-text>turning to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not have any Oede, or if you do not wish to give it to the man, you can flee the cave with Banedon, by <link-text>turning to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the landing in time to see three Drakkarim warriors enter the tower. Maniacal laughter echoes from their ghoulish death-mask faces, as they form a line and creep towards you.</p>
- <p>More of their evil kind are flooding on to the bridge, some carrying crossbows. You decide it would be suicide to attack the Drakkarim and sprint quickly up the stairs to escape from them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive aside, your Kai skill saving you from the axe that is spinning towards the platform. Suddenly, a deafening bang rings out and the Drakkar is flung backwards, his breastplate torn open by dwarf shot. He gives a long, agonizing death-cry as he disappears from sight, tumbling into the darkness that surrounds the speeding sky-ship.</p>
- <p>As if in answer to the shot, a menacing roll of thunder rumbles across the darkening plain from Barrakeesh. It is as if the city itself were cursing your escape.</p>
- <p>Banedon appears at your side, his face lined with concern. As he offers a shaky hand to help you to your feet, you notice that the makeshift bandage which binds his wound is soaked with blood. He is pale and weak and close to collapse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect377">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 377</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your misgivings, the lime-green wine tastes delicious. A warm glow radiates slowly from your stomach, filling you with a comfortable sense of well-being. Restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The man looks delighted by your reaction to his wine and offers to sell you a bottle for 5 Gold Crowns. If you wish to buy a Bottle of Kourshah, pay the man 5 Gold Crowns and make the necessary adjustments your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (There is enough Kourshah in the bottle to restore a further 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to question him about Tipasa the Wanderer, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to leave his home and continue on your way to Ikaresh, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fleeting shadows move through the densely packed trees: the Drakkarim are trying to surround you. Suddenly, a red shape bursts from the foliage and a mace glances across your forehead. You roll with the blow, tumbling over as though stunned by the force. The Vordak shrieks with malicious laughter and leaps upon you, its black mace raised to crush your skull.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect355">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 355</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar falls to his knees and makes a horrible rasping noise as he tries in vain to prise open his shattered death-mask. Your blows have staved in his helm, and the buckled metal has fractured his skull. You lash out with your foot and kick him from the outrigger, sending him spiralling down to Lake Inrahim to join the dwarf he murdered. But the dwarf is neither dead nor hundreds of feet below. He hangs by his foot, unconscious, snagged in the netting below the outrigger boards. You grab the dwarf's leg and haul him to safety before continuing the fight.</p>
- <p>The platform looks empty&emdash;no heads are showing above its armoured parapet, but you sense something is wrong. Instinctively, you leap from the outrigger onto the main hull, your weapon poised to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect361"><link-text>Turn to 361</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your skill on a nearby spade, willing the spade handle to rattle against the wheelbarrow in which it rests. It only takes a few seconds for the vigilant Drakkar sentry to leave his post and investigate the noise. By the time he returns, you are inside the Tomb of the Majhan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect395"><link-text>Turn to 395</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the bottom of the stairs, a wooden door braced with iron blocks the entrance to the scented garden. Frantically you twist the handle, but it does not open&emdash;the door is locked. Then a couple of palace guards appear on the bridge above; they see you and unsling their heavy crossbows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you possess a Copper Key, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you do not possess this item, you can try to climb over the door by <link-text>turning to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect375">Alternatively, you can run back up the stairs and attempt to attack the guards before they load and fire their crossbows by <link-text>turning to 375</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon enter a public square where a throng of men have gathered at the ruins of a fountain. They are listening to the frenzied speech of a man dressed in red from head to toe; each man in the crowd is wearing a strip of the same coloured cloth, which covers the lower half of his face.</p>
- <p><quote>They're Adu-kaw&emdash;<quote>the veiled ones</quote>,</quote> says Banedon nervously. <quote>It sounds as if they're declaring a blood feud on their old enemies, the men of Tefa.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow Banedon to the shelter of a toa tree, where you will be less conspicuous. The speaker is denouncing the Tefarim for imposing a heavy tax for safe passage through their town and for use of the highway to Kara Kala. His ranting begins to stir the crowd to fever pitch.</p>
- <p>Suddenly he points to where you stand and shrieks, <quote>Tefarim spies!</quote></p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>His ranting begins to stir the crowd to fever pitch</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="645" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="645" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you want to try to reason with the crowd of screaming fanatics that are now running towards you with their swords drawn, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to follow Banedon's example and run for your life, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Itikar fixes you with a cold, black stare, but you sense that it is no longer hostile. As you settle on its wide saddle, you catch sight of the Drakkarim streaming across the gangplank. Leaning forward, you unhook the anchor rope from the saddle ring and grab the thick leather reins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dwarves continue their meal, pausing only to light large hooded pipes. Through the bluish hue of the pipe smoke that clouds the low cabin roof, you notice that they are casting nervous glances at you, as if you might explode at any moment.</p>
- <p>After five minutes have passed, Nolrim raises his tankard and proclaims a toast: <quote>To Lone Wolf&emdash;a man among dwarves!</quote></p>
- <p>The dwarves guffaw at Nolrim's wry toast and raise their tankards in a salute to your courage and fortitude. The Bor-brew has loosened their tongues, and they are eager to tell you of their past exploits.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You act purely by instinct. You dive to the floor and roll over; the blue flame screams past your head and explodes into the chamber wall, blasting a hole several feet deep in the steel-hard rock. You spring to your feet and dodge behind a massive pillar as the hideous laugh of Darklord Haakon echoes around the dust-choked chamber. As it rises in pitch, your mind is filled with agonizing pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect369">If you do not possess this Kai Discipline, <link-text>turn to 369</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense of Tracking reveals that the winding path leads into the Zakhan's arboretum: his cathedral of trees. The stairs to the portal lead to a private chamber in the upper palace, but you still cannot tell what the chamber contains.</p>
- <choice idref="sect391">If you wish to follow the path, <link-text>turn to 391</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect352">If you decide to climb the stairs to the portal, <link-text>turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect221-1-foot" idref="sect221-1">
- <p>Turn to <a idref="sect336">Section 336</a> if you have ever received the Crystal Star Pendant, regardless of whether or not you possess it now.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Emerging from a bank of cloud on the skyline is a flying ship. It is a small craft, no bigger than an Unoram river barge, with two triangular sails swept back either side of its curving prow. In the fading twilight you can make out a long pennant that flutters from its mast. A faint humming reaches your ears. Your first reaction is disbelief; what you are seeing must be a trick of the light or some fiendish illusion created by the Darklords. However as the ship floats nearer, your senses tell you that it is indeed quite real.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you possess a Crystal Star Pendant, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.<a id="sect221-1" idref="sect221-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You must act quickly if you are to avoid detection, for the creature in red is a Vordak: one of the powerful undead who serve the Darklords.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect378">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 378</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If the number is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the pain subsides&emdash;but the onslaught has only just begun. A mist as black as the grave is seeping from Haakon's mouth. It creeps along his outstretched arm and settles like a cloud in the palm of his upturned hand. Whirling shadow-shapes draw into focus; wings and tentacles sprout and take form. A curse in the dark tongue shakes the whole chamber as a deadly flood of horror hurtles from his hand.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A deadly flood of horror hurtles from his hand</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="609" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="609" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Spawn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect353">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 353</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great black bird beats its massive wings, cawing hoarsely through the domed pen. Two black eyes, fierce and cold, fix you with a deadly stare as you edge nearer to its perch.</p>
- <p>Grabbing the saddle pommel, you haul yourself up, but suddenly there is a flash of razor-sharp talons. Instinctively, you shield your face as a glint of orange sunlight is caught on the Itikar's curved beak, for it slashes the air barely inches above your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you have the Kai Discipline of Animal Kinship, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you possess an Onyx Medallion, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you possess neither the Kai Discipline nor the Special Item, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the Kai Rank of Aspirant or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If your total is now 8-11, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If your total is 4-7, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect370">If your total is 1-3, <link-text>turn to 370</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If your total is 0, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man is short of stature but broad-shouldered and strongly built, physical characteristics common among the tough mountain-dwellers in Vassagonia. He pulls a cork from a bottle of lime-green wine and pours three large measures into earthenware cups.</p>
- <p><quote>Kourshah!</quote> he exclaims, and downs the wine in one swift gulp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to follow his example and drink the strange wine, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you do not want to drink the wine, ask him where Tipasa can be found, and <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are the first to recover from the surprise of the sudden encounter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to attack the guards, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>. (Ignore any wounds you may sustain in the first 2 rounds of combat.)</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you do not wish to fight them, you can evade before they have a chance to strike at you by running back up to stairs. <link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you near the entrance to a shadowy alley, you hear a woman's voice begging in the darkness: <quote>Alms for a poor widow, young sirs?</quote> A decrepit old woman hobbles into the light, her features harsh, her face haggard and drawn. She repeats her plaintive cry: <quote>Will you spare a coin for a poor widow's needs?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to stop and question her, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect388">If you wish to ignore her and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 388</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eager to put distance between yourself and your merciless enemy, you race headlong through a tangle of trees and roots until you stumble upon a small domed hut of latticed wood, half hidden by a curtain of vines. Peering through the dense foliage, you see that the vines reach up to a wrought-iron walkway, which ends at an open stone door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect352">If you wish to climb up a vine to the walkway and escape through the open stone door, <link-text>turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to search for an exit from the arboretum at ground level, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the craft emerges into the sunlight, a terrible noise fills the air&emdash;the screeching cacophony of Kraan-riders, sweeping down from the table of rock. They have been waiting patiently for the <cite>Skyrider</cite> to appear before launching their ambush, for they have been certain of your hiding place since before the dawn. The Black Crystal Cube enabled them to track your escape route through the Dahir mountains, its signal to them as clear as a burning beacon in the night.</p>
- <p>You sense it is the Cube which has betrayed your escape and snatch it from your pocket, but before you can hurl the accursed object away, it explodes in your hand.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect385">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 385</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If your total is now 7&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is another searing blast, which hits the base of the huge pillar behind which you have taken refuge; it severs the stone in an instant. Your body is torn to pieces as the pillar explodes into a million fragments&emdash;the little of you that remains is buried beneath tons of falling sand and stone.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkarim rush into the guard room, bellowing like Kalte mammoths and hacking madly at the air with their cruel, black swords. The leader advances on you, a mane of jet-black hair streaming from the open back of his helm, his sword held low for a thrust that will disembowel you. You sidestep and drive your weapon into his armoured chest. The black metal buckles, crushing his ribs, killing him instantly, but before he has fallen to the ground, two more Drakkarim are upon you. You cannot evade combat and must fight them to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to sidestep as the lethal blade hurtles towards you, but in the darkness you cannot be sure of the direction of its flight. You are hit in the chest, the blow smashing the air from your lungs. Lights flash before your eyes, and an explosion rings in your ears. You fall to your knees, and a sensation of numbness spreads through your chest. Through a haze of swirling mist, you see the Drakkar flung backwards, his breastplate torn open by dwarf shot. Banedon appears; his face is ashen grey. His lips move, but you cannot hear what he is saying. Images of Sommerlund swim in your mind and then slowly fade as oblivion engulfs you.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the last hope of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding the Prism in the centre of the beam, you divert the light towards the hole in the floor. You hear the sound of stone grating on stone as the door slowly opens to reveal a large chamber. It is dimly lit, but in the dust that covers the marble floor you can see footprints too numerous to count. As you enter, you suddenly catch sight of a rough stone throne, facing the wall on the far side of the chamber. Behind you the door slides shut with unnerving speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a complete daze you tumble and spin, totally unaware of whether you are falling head or feet first. The warm wind tears at your face, forcing your eyelids and mouth open. You can barely breathe. You scream with terror until you hit the upper branches of a toa tree; in the next instant you hit water. You rapidly surface again, and instinctively begin to pump your legs.</p>
- <p>You have no idea in which direction you are swimming, but in three strokes you find yourself at the side of this deep, sculptured pool of clear water. Still shaking from the shock of impact, you crawl your way out on to a mossy bank. Miraculously, you have escaped injury, but your ordeal is far from over. The Drakkarim and the palace guards watched you fall and at this very moment are racing down from the tower and the bridge to the palace gardens.</p>
- <p>Ahead of you, beyond a tree-lined colonnade, a flight of steps ascends to a small portal in the wall of the upper palace. To your right, a leafy tunnel winds away into the trees and shrubs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect352">If you wish to climb the stairs to the small portal, <link-text>turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect391">If you wish to follow the winding path, <link-text>turn to 391</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rows of stalactites hang from the roof of the cave, like the fangs of some incredible monster, and the bubbling of a distant geyser echoes eerily through the unknown depths.</p>
- <p>You begin to explore and eventually reach a place were a natural bridge of rock arches over a steaming course of water, red with ore. Huddled beneath the bridge is a pathetic figure, its body bent and emaciated. A tattered blanket covers his face, and in his withered hands he clutches a crude fishing rod. A small catch of lavacrabs lie on the bank, their claws twitching as they slowly die. As you move nearer, the figure raises his face to stare at you. It is a man, but the sight of his face shocks you to the core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you do not possess this Kai Discipline, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your speed and stealth carry you across the gangplank undetected. Your attack is silent and deadly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to search the guard's body, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you decide to ignore the body, hurry into the Itikar's pen, and <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The jala tastes as good as it smells and, after your dusty trek through the hills, is a welcome relief to your parched throat. Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p><quote>Do you know where we may be able to find a man called Tipasa the Wanderer?</quote> asks Banedon, successfully hiding his Northland accent with his expert mastery of the Ikareshi dialect.</p>
- <p><quote>I'm sorry, friend, but I have never heard of this man,</quote> replies one of the men.</p>
- <p><quote>You would be wise,</quote> interrupts the other, <quote>to ask the widow Soushilla. There is little in Ikaresh that she does not know.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Where can she be found?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>At her tavern, of course,</quote> they reply, simultaneously. <quote>Cross Eagle Square and you'll find it on the way to the Dougga Market.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the Ikareshi and leave the eating house. Retracing your steps to the square, you set off towards the Dougga Market in search of Soushilla the Widow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect376"><link-text>Turn to 376</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You escape from the combat and sprint along the opposite passage, but the enemy gives chase, and the crunch of iron-shod boots echoes in your ears. You race down a stairway, through an arch of silver and along a balcony overlooking the lower palace.</p>
- <p>You glimpse the silhouette of Darklord Haakon in the hall below, his spiked fist raised. A Drakkar appears from nowhere and leaps at you, his sword raised high above his skull-like helm. There is a deafening crack, and a bolt of blue lightning streaks from a stone in the Darklord's hand and hurtles towards you. The Drakkar lunges and wounds your forearm (you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), but he is now standing in the path of the bolt. In a flash of light, the Drakkar is gone; only cinders and the rotten odour of scorched flesh remain.</p>
- <p>At the end of the balcony you see another arch and a staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect381">If you wish to escape through the arch, <link-text>turn to 381</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to escape by the stairs, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect239-1-foot" idref="sect239-1">
- <p>You may only use Graveweed in its Tincture form, in this case (you may not use a concentrated potion if you have one).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are to get inside the tomb, you must either distract or silence the Drakkar sentry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you possess a Tincture of Graveweed, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.<a id="sect239-1" idref="sect239-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this item, you will have to creep up and overpower him as quickly and silently as you can. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Kai Disciplines of Hunting, Tracking and Camouflage, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Itikar are wild and malicious creatures. It can take several years for a rider to tame and train one, but once trained, the giant black birds are fiercely loyal. As you approach, the Itikar senses that you are not his master and furiously attacks you with its deadly beak and talons.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Itikar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Fight the combat as normal, but double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the giant bird. When its score falls to zero, you will have subdued it enough to be able to climb into the saddle and take control. All the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose in the combat count as wounds and must be deducted from your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you successfully reduce the Itikar's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to 0, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once outside the cave, you and Banedon waste no time in pressing on towards Ikaresh. As you near the outskirts of the town, you pass a small, round hut where a goat is eating from a manger near the door. A man appears in the darkened doorway and bids you welcome; he touches his forehead in a salute of friendship and invites you to enter his humble home.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="329" height="122" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="329" height="122" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect365">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 365</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to accept his invitation, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you decide to decline his offer and continue on your way towards Ikaresh, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the creature dressed in red: it is a Vordak, a servant of the Darklords, one of the powerful undead. Vordaks possess great psychic power, and you feel it scanning for you with its Mindforce. You know that if you are to avoid these evil troops, you will not only have to hide, but also shield your mind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Camouflage, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If your total score is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect378">If it is 7 or over, <link-text>turn to 378</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your deadly stroke hurls the Drakkar over the armoured parapet. He tumbles from view and plummets into the valley thousands of feet below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can clearly see the main highway that links Chula to the capital. It crosses the desolate salt plain of Lake Inrahim by means of a causeway thirty feet high and is a useful landmark by which you can steer. Little stone houses with beaten earth roofs are grouped in small clusters along the highway, their numbers increasing as you draw nearer to the town.</p>
- <p>You are five miles from Chula, when you notice a dark cloud hovering several hundred feet above one of the small villages. It is a cloud of Kraan; they are moving to intercept you.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the Itikar squeals in pain, and a splash of feathers billows out from its wing. A Kraan has closed in from behind; it is less than a hundred yards distant. The Drakkar rider holsters an empty bronze crossbow and draws his black sword. His bolt has passed through the wing of your mount, and he prepares to strike as the Itikar loses height and speed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Kraan-rider</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The Kraan and its rider are swooping on you from behind. You will only be able to fight for one round of combat before they are carried past by the momentum of their attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you lose more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than the enemy in this one round combat, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If the enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than you, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you both lose exactly the same number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove your Blue Stone Triangle from around your neck and press it into the indentation in the wall. It is a perfect fit. You hear the sound of stone grating on stone, and the door slowly opens to reveal a chamber. It is dimly lit, but you see that the thick dust on its marble floor is covered with innumerable footprints. As you enter, you catch sight of a rough stone throne, facing the wall on the far side of the chamber.</p>
- <p>Behind you the stone door slides shut with unnerving speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Copper Key, you unlock the door and hurry into the garden, not a moment too soon; as the heavy door swings shut you hear crossbow bolts ricocheting from the bands of studded iron.</p>
- <p>The enclosed garden is filled with the fragrance of exotic shrubs and trees, which cluster around a sculptured pool of deep blue water. It is a beautiful sight, but you dare not stop to enjoy it. The Drakkarim and the palace guards know where you are, and you must keep moving if you are to escape them.</p>
- <p>Beyond a tree-lined colonnade, a flight of steps ascends to a small portal in the wall of the upper palace. To your right, a leafy tunnel winds away into the trees and shrubs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turned to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect352">If you decide to climb the stairs to the small portal, <link-text>turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect391">If you would rather follow the winding path, <link-text>turn to 391</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The voyage through the Koos is breathtaking. The <cite>Skyrider</cite> glides between the towers of rock that rise from the valley floor with fantastic and unearthly grandeur. Far below, sulphurous water bubbles from fissures in the orange ground and streams of hissing lava carve circular channels, which glow like moats of liquid fire. You watch the sky, but there are no signs of the enemy.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="273" height="190" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="273" height="190" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Ikaresh,</quote> says Banedon pensively. <quote><quote>The Eagle's Lair</quote>. That is where we will find Tipasa the Wanderer. It is the place of his birth and the home of his family. He roams the Dry Main, but he always returns to Ikaresh.</quote></p>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you reach the hills beyond the Koos that overlook the town of Ikaresh. Banedon moors the <cite>Skyrider</cite> to a pinnacle of stone, and a rope ladder is lowered to the ground. It has been decided that you and he will enter Ikaresh on foot and locate Tipasa, while Nolrim and the crew wait in hiding for you to return&emdash;the sight of the <cite>Skyrider</cite> hovering above the mountain town would be sure to arouse unwanted interest in your arrival.</p>
- <p>You and Banedon prepare yourselves for your mission by staining your skins with brown copalla berries and dressing in the grey and white robes commonly worn by the mountain people of this region. You bid farewell to Nolrim and set off across the barren hills.</p>
- <p>Pick in number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect383">If it is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 383</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A small, heavy-set merchant is hawking his wares from a stall set close to the archway. His small, beady eyes twinkle from beneath a ridiculously outsized turban. As you approach, he launches himself at you, desperately trying, with a flood of wild claims, to persuade you to buy his obviously inferior goods. He looks surprised when you interrupt him with your question. <quote>Tipasa?</quote> he answers. <quote>Yes, I know where he lives.</quote></p>
- <p>He holds up a gaudy waistcoat of pink and orange sackcloth and offers it to you. <quote>It would make a worthy gift for your esteemed friend,</quote> he suggests, his eyes continually glancing at your belt pouch. <quote>Only 5 Gold Crowns, master.</quote></p>
- <p>You realize you will first have to purchase this ridiculous garment before the merchant will tell you where Tipasa lives.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to buy the waistcoat, pay the man 5 Gold Crowns, and <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you do not want to buy the waistcoat, or cannot afford to pay him 5 Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Vordak dies, its body gradually dissolves into a bubbling green liquid, shrivelling the plants that lie beneath the crumbled red robe. The swish of a sword alerts you to the Drakkarim who are now closing in around their slain leader. Without hesitation, you sheathe your weapon and run for cover among the densely packed trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you watch the Kraan-riders disappear into the darkening sky, a roll of thunder rumbles across the plain from Barrakeesh. The sound is threatening and full of brooding menace, as if the city itself were cursing your escape.</p>
- <p>You turn away and focus your attention on Banedon, your unexpected rescuer. The makeshift bandage that binds his wound is soaked with blood, and he looks pale and weak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect377">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 377</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are fortunate that you are not struck by the blast, but even so, the blue flame scorches your hand and arm and knocks you to the floor. Lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whirl your feet away from the shining steel and narrowly escape being wounded as the axe bites inches deep into the polished stone floor. However, before the guard can strike another blow, you lash out and send the axe spinning from his hand. He screams, clutching broken fingers to his chest.</p>
- <p>You turn and run towards an open door. The air is filled with the sound of pounding feet, for the palace guard are on full alert; together with the Drakkarim, they are now bent on finding and killing you as quickly as possible.</p>
- <p>Beyond the door, a bridge rises at a slanted angle over an enclosed garden, joining this part of the palace to a needle-like tower of white marble. At the entrance to the bridge, a narrow stair disappears into the garden below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect396">If you wish to cross the bridge and enter the Tower, <link-text>turn to 396</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you decide to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the pain subsides, but a new horror is taking shape before your eyes. Out of the darkness, a green whorl of vapour is forming slowly into the shape of a glistening, serpent-like monster. A grey mist issues forth from the Darklord's mouth, floating towards the core of this horror, infusing it with the power of death. The serpent writhes and convulses as the grey mist fills its body, changing it from a dream-like illusion into a living nightmare. Two pinpoints of crimson glow from its eyes, as it slithers towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dhorgaan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you possess a Jewelled Mace, you may add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat, for it is an enchanted weapon, especially effective against such a creature.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A green whorl of vapour is forming slowly into the shape of a glistening, serpent-like monster</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="613" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="613" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chill air whips past your face as you tumble towards Lake Inrahim. The Kraan-riders, the sky-ship and the distant horizon all melt into a kaleidoscope of shapes and images. You fear these will be the last things you will ever see.</p>
- <p>You have prepared yourself for death and feel calm and relaxed. Suddenly, you feel your body engulfed by a mass of sticky fibres. There is a terrific jolt, which leaves you breathless and stunned. (Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) The impossible is happening&emdash;you are no longer falling but rising!</p>
- <p>You have to been caught by a net of sticky strands like a fly in a Web. You rise into the sky towards the flying ship as quickly as you fell. Three bearded dwarves clad in bright, padded battle-jerkins pull you aboard an outrigger that runs the length of the hull. There's no time to express your gratitude, for the small sky-ship is under attack from the Kraan-riders.</p>
- <p>At the end of the outrigger, a dwarf is in hand-to-hand combat with a snarling Drakkar. He is losing the battle. As you rush to help him, another of the evil warriors lands in the centre of the craft, on top of the fortified platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to help the dwarf, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect361">If you wish to leap from the outrigger on to the fortified platform, <link-text>turn to 361</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Drakkar collapses to the ground, a Black Crystal Cube falls from his pocket. If you wish to take this item, place it in your own pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item. The shriek of the Vordak drives you away from the dead body&emdash;his hideous cry is loud and very near.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Here you are,</quote> says Banedon, flicking a Gold Crown into her empty bowl. <quote>Now will you help us in return?</quote> She snatches the coin to her mouth and bites into the gold. Satisfied that the coin is real, she nods her head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to ask her if she is Soushilla, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to ask her if she knows were Tipasa the Wanderer can be found, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature's curved beak gores your back, impaling you upon its razor-sharp tip. You are lifted into the air and dashed against the wall with one flick of the great bird's powerful neck. Mercifully, death is instantaneous as your skull is shattered against the hard, unyielding marble.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun-sword tingles with power as you point it at the flame which hurtles nearer and nearer, its hiss becoming so loud that it drowns the noise of battle. You brace yourself for the moment of impact. The flame hits the Sommerswerd with a thunderous noise and is held there in a ball of liquid purple fire that burns at the very tip of the magical blade. Instinctively, you whirl the Sommerswerd around your head and cast the fireball back into the sky.</p>
- <p>The Vordak shrieks with terror, but it is too late&emdash;its fate is sealed. The fireball consumes the Zlanbeast and its rider in a massive explosion of sun-like brilliance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two bolts whistle through the air and slam into your back. As the pain tears through your body, you faint and fall on to the poison-tipped spikes. As your life's blood drains away, the last sound you hear is the hideous gloating laughter of Darklord Haakon rising above the ghoulish howl of his evil Drakkarim warriors.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the cover of the excavation equipment scattered around the crater, you creep up on the sentry and empty the Tincture into the water flask resting by his feet.</p>
- <p>A few minutes later, he reaches down and drinks from the flask. It is not long before he begins to feel very ill. As he staggers away to be violently sick, you slip into the Tomb unnoticed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect395"><link-text>Turn to 395</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tumble earthwards, blurred colours flashing before your eyes. The Kraan-riders, the sky-ship and the distant horizon all melt into a kaleidoscope of shapes, the last images you see before smashing into the hard and barren salt-plain of Lake Inrahim.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been detected; the Vordak shrieks a hideous high-pitched scream and points a bony finger towards your hiding place. Drakkarim crash through the undergrowth, cleaving a path with their black swords.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to draw your weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect393">If you wish to try to escape from them, <link-text>turn to 393</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crone hobbles away into the dark alley; you and Banedon retrace your steps to the eagle monolith, where an arrow sign points west to the main square. The evening shadows are lengthening as you set off from the eagle once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible shriek rings out above the rush of the wind, filling your head with pain. You are being attacked by a powerful Mindblast. Unless you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current total.</p>
- <p>The Itikar shudders and frantically twists its head from side to side as the shriek rings out again. You sense that the great bird is in agony, racked by the Mindblast. As you glance over your shoulder, your stomach becomes knotted with fear&emdash;a Kraan is swooping down to attack. On its back is your adversary: a Vordak, one of the undead and a hideous lieutenant of the Darklords. As the Kraan streaks towards you, the Vordak spreads its red-robed arms and leaps from the saddle. It lands behind you, astride the Itikar's back, its skeletal fingers sunk deep into your mount's feathered flesh. The shock of the impact throws you forward, and the reins slip from your hands.</p>
- <p>The giant bird screeches in horror and pain as the Vordak's grip paralyses its spine. You must act quickly, for the Itikar is now plummeting towards the salt-plain of Lake Inrahim.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The Vordak lands behind you, astride the Itikar's back, its skeletal fingers sunk deep into your mount's feathered flesh</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="617" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="617" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She refuses to say anything until you have placed some money in her begging bowl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect397">If you wish to give her a Gold Crown, make the adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and <link-text>turn to 397</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you do not wish, or cannot afford, to give her any gold, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill warns you that two palace guards are running up the spiral stairs from their guardroom in the base of the tower. Quickly, you ascend the stairs before the Drakkarim enter and see in which direction you have gone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkarim falter, blinded by the flash. Nolrim seizes the opportunity and urges his brethren forward against the invaders, leading the attack with his mighty battle-axe. Its razor edge whines and strikes sparks against the enemies' black armour, cutting through their unsteady ranks like a scythe through blighted corn.</p>
- <p>You climb back onto the platform and see a Drakkar about to strike Banedon. The wizard seems unconcerned about the screaming warrior who threatens to decapitate him with a black broadsword. Banedon points his finger at the Drakkar, who is poised to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to attack the Drakkar before he lands his blow upon Banedon's head, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect394">If you do not wish to attack, <link-text>turn to 394</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the leap of a tiger, you snatch the glowing gem barely a second before Haakon's spiked fist slams into the floor where the jewel lay. You turn to face your enemy, the gem held high in your hand, its blue beam glinting on the Darklord's black armour. He shrinks beneath its glare and falls to his knees, a repulsive sucking noise issuing from his helm as he slowly begins to fade.</p>
- <p>A sudden crack makes you start with shock, but you are no longer in danger. The glowing gem has vanished from your hand; like its master it has left this dimension, never to return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect400"><link-text>Turn to 400</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare at the bolt, willing it to move. The sound of running footsteps behind you sends a cold shiver down your spine as you realize that the Drakkarim are storming the stairs. Then, slowly, the bolt begins to move. As soon as it clears the bolt-hole, you pull open the stone portal and race through, unaware of what lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect352"><link-text>Turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race along the rock-strewn cave, eager to escape from the infected old man. The horrific stories that you have heard about vaxelus make you careless in your haste, and you lose 2 Items from your Backpack. Choose which two Items to erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (if you have no Backpack Items, you lose a Weapon and a Special Item instead).</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kraan-rider screams past to your left, spun off course by your swift counter-blow. He is now over a hundred feet below but is turning the Kraan for another attack. You wheel towards the south to avoid being caught between the two converging squadrons of Kraan-riders. Your change of direction increases the distance between you and your pursuers, but the Itikar is badly wounded and terrified by the shrieking Kraan.</p>
- <p>You are close to despair; your feathered mount is losing a lot of blood and could lapse into unconsciousness at any moment and drop you like a stone from the darkening sky. Suddenly you spot something in the distance&emdash;a sight that renews your faith in miracles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow a path along a dry gully, the bed of an ancient river that once flowed through the mountains. An arid breeze blows eddies of red dust along the banks of dead earth. The white-walled buildings of Ikaresh suddenly appear, and, as the dust settles, you find yourselves standing in a small square close to the open archway of the town's east gate.</p>
- <p>Perched upon a tall basalt monolith in the centre of the square is an eagle&emdash;the emblem of this mountain town&emdash;cast in bronze. Three bronze arrows are held in its beak, each indicating an exit from the square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect376">If you wish to go north, towards the Dougga Market, <link-text>turn to 376</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to go west, towards the main square, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to go south, along the Avenue of Eagles, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Akataz leaps through the air at your face. You fall backwards, kicking with both feet, but you are winded as the war-dog jolts the air from your lungs. It slashes your shoulder (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), before cartwheeling over the edge of the stairs, its howl cut short as it smashes into the marble floor of the lower palace.</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and draw your weapon, for the Drakkarim are running towards you. A terrible roar of hate and rage fills the hall: <quote>Kill him!</quote> The Drakkarim unsheathe their black swords, eager to obey their master's command. They attack you simultaneously.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You can evade the combat at any time by running into the adjoining passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon holds a gleaming ring of silver beneath the merchant's nose and says, <quote>This is yours, my friend, if you tell us were Tipasa can be found.</quote></p>
- <p>The merchant snatches the ring from the wizard's hand and stammers, <quote>The first alley on the left past the stables. He lives at the house with the blue door.</quote></p>
- <p>You hurry across the crowded marketplace towards the stables and enter the street beyond. As you turn into the alley, you hear the merchant's shriek of dismay above the noise of the crowd; the ring has just dissolved on his finger. At the end of the alley you find the house with the blue door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the flag that flies above a fortified platform in the centre of the strange craft: it is the crescent and crystal star ensign of the Magician's Guild of Toran, a city in northern Sommerlund. The sky-ship is commanded by a Sommlending wizard&emdash;one of your own countrymen. He is a blond-haired young man dressed in long, dark blue robes.</p>
- <p>You are so stunned by the fateful appearance of the craft that you fail to notice the blood seeping from the Itikar's mouth: the creature is near to death. Suddenly, the great bird lets out a pitiful and agonizing caw. Its wings stiffen, and its head falls limply forward as the last flicker of life escapes from its torn body. You are pitched forward, and your stomach heaves as you plummet towards Lake Inrahim.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect374">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 374</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Why do you ask?</quote> she replies suspiciously, blinking the tears from her eyes. <quote>What business do you have with Old Tipasa?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>He is a friend,</quote> replies Banedon, placing a Gold Crown on the tavern counter. The old woman covers the coin with her hand, her expression shrewd and calculating.</p>
- <p><quote>Soushilla is old, her memory has faded with the passing years,</quote> she says, waiting expectantly and glancing at Banedon's money pouch. He opens the flap to remove another Crown, but the pouch has been emptied by a nimble pickpocket. Sheepishly he avoids your stare, his face growing redder by the second.</p>
- <p><quote>Five Gold Crowns may refresh my memory,</quote> she says, her gaze now resting on you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you wish to pay the old woman 5 Gold Crowns, erase them from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you not have 5 Gold Crowns, or do not wish to give her the money, leave the tavern and <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch low as you wait for your chance to leap up and open the door. More and more crossbow bolts ricochet from the wall and parapet every second. The sound of iron-shod boots sends a shiver down your spine; the Drakkarim are storming the stairs&emdash;it's now or never!</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and run to the door, grasping the iron bolt with trembling fingers. A steel-tipped missile splinters stone less than an inch from your hand, another ricochets and opens a cut above your eye. The instant the bolt clears the bolt-hole, you pull open the stone portal and race through, unaware of what lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect352"><link-text>Turn to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run, half-crouched, towards your golden blade, grab the hilt, and continue at full speed towards the cover of another pillar. Suddenly, a burst of energy leaps from the Darklord's fist, exploding into the base of the pillar, severing it from the floor. A tremendous roar fills your ears as you are thrown backwards by the shock of the blast. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Haakon's laugh rises above the crash of falling stone until your head is filled with an agonizing pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect379">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 379</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A narrow corridor faces you, which is lit by the orange light of the setting sun filtering down from small open windows set high above in the patterned walls. The air is filled with the sound of running feet, for the Grand Palace is now on full alert. The palace guards and the evil Drakkarim are bent on finding and killing you, for their own lives will be forfeit if they fail.</p>
- <p>You reach a door that opens on to an outside balcony. A stair descends to a bridge that connects a needle-like tower of white marble to the main palace. The stair itself continues past the bridge, disappearing down towards the palace gardens far below. You see no soldiers, either on the bridge or in the gardens.</p>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="209" height="192" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="209" height="192" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect396">If you wish to descend to the bridge and enter the marble tower, <link-text>turn to 396</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to continue past the bridge, descending the stairs to the palace gardens, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar is strangling the dwarf. As he catches sight of you, he releases his grip and smashes his mailed fist into the dwarf's face, sending him tumbling into space. You are inflamed by this cold-blooded murder. You draw your weapon and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the speed of your attack, do not deduct any of your own <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you turn to leave, the vaxeler bids you to wait. From a bundle of rags hidden beneath the bridge, he produces a gem-encrusted mace. The weapon is carved from solid silver and adorned with emeralds and diamonds along the haft. <quote>Take it, I beseech you, as a token of my eternal thanks.</quote></p>
- <p>If you wish to accept this gift, mark the Jewelled Mace on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item (which you carry tucked into your belt) before leaving the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the bell-tower and make your way down towards the sentry. At first, dodging from one turret to the next, it is easy to remain unseen. However, for the final thirty yards to the landing platform you will have no cover, for the platform and the palace roof are linked by an exposed gangplank. If you are to overpower the sentry, you must cross the gangplank undetected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess the skill, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Disciplines of either Hunting or Camouflage, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn or higher, add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect357">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 357</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect389">If your totally is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 389</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If your total is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dwarves are not offended by your refusal. They have seen men stirred to fury or laid unconscious by a jug of Bor-brew. Nolrim grasps the tankard and downs the draft with one awesome gulp, removing the froth from his ginger beard with a practised flick of his forefinger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to ask the dwarves how they came to be under Banedon's command, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect359">If you wish to bid them goodnight, <link-text>turn to 359</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call out to them to stop, but your accent merely confirms their suspicions that you are a spy. A rock hurtles through the air and gashes your forehead. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. <quote>Run, Lone Wolf!</quote> screams Banedon. <quote>They will cut you to pieces!</quote></p>
- <p>As they race nearer, the crazed look in their eyes quickly tells you it would be madness to stay. You turn and run for all you are worth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you turn and sprint along the passage, a terrible roar of hatred and rage fills the hall: <quote>Kill him!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance back. The Drakkarim are unsheathing their black swords, eager to obey their master's command. You race down some stairs, through a silver archway, and along a balcony that overlooks the lower palace.</p>
- <p>The Akataz is nearly upon you; you feel its fetid breath on your legs. Instinctively you dodge aside at the very second it leaps. It crashes muzzle first into a marble pillar. A howl of pain leaves its broken mouth as you step forward and strike a death-blow; it will never attack again.</p>
- <p>You glimpse the grim silhouette of Darklord Haakon in the hall below, his spiked fist raised. A Drakkar appears as it from nowhere and advances, a sword held high above his skull-like helm. There is a deafening crack as a bolt of blue lightning streaks from a stone in the Darklord's hand and comes hurtling towards you. The Drakkar lunges and wounds your arm (you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but he now stands in the path of the bolt. In a flash of light, the Drakkar is gone, leaving only cinders and the rotten odour of scorched flesh behind.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>In a flash of light the Drakkar is gone</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="670" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="670" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At the end of the balcony is another arch and a staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect381">If you wish to escape through the arch, <link-text>turn to 381</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to escape by the stairs, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As night falls, your desperate quest begins. The Giaks pose few problems that you cannot overcome with your warrior skills, for they have been overworked to the point of exhaustion. Only the Drakkarim show any sign of vigilance, but even then, there are less than a dozen patrolling the entire crater. Not until you reach the main entrance to the Tomb do you encounter any real difficulty.</p>
- <p>A Drakkar stands on guard, his cruel eyes glinting behind his twisted iron death-mask. Occasionally, he diverts his attention from the watch to take a drink from a water flask.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Itikar are by nature wild and malicious creatures, and it can take many years for a rider to tame and train one. However, the effort is well worthwhile as once this is been accomplished, the giant black birds are fiercely loyal.</p>
- <p>The Itikar senses that you are not his master and tries to drive you away, wounding your back with a glancing blow from its powerful beak. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. However, due to sheer strength of will, you manage to climb into the saddle and subdue the creature. It turns its head and fixes you with a cold black stare, but you sense that it is now no longer hostile.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, you catch sight of the Drakkarim, streaming across the gangplank. You stretch forward, unhook the Itikar's anchor rope from the saddle ring and grab the thick leather reins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect288-1-foot" idref="sect288-1">
- <p>Turn to <a idref="sect399">Section 399</a> if you have ever received the Crystal Star Pendant, regardless of whether or not you possess it now.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>To Drakkar curses you with his dying breath, his cry fading as he falls from the platform. You rush to aid your wounded countryman, but the battle is not yet over. A Kraan-rider is swooping towards you, a crossbow levelled at your head; he fires and the bolt shoots towards your face. Then a shrill, metallic whine rings in your ears as the bolt miraculously ricochets away, deflected by an invisible shield.</p>
- <choice idref="sect399">If you possess a Crystal Star Pendant, <link-text>turn to 399</link-text>.<a id="sect288-1" idref="sect288-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The throne begins to revolve. A terrible howling fills your ears, changing almost instantaneously to the growling of a harsh guttural language, the like of which you have never heard before. Words and sounds that the mouths of men could never be shaped to speak roll through the chamber like thunder. It is the dark tongue, spoken by Haakon, Lord of Aarnak, Darklord of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>He rises from the throne, the ghastly voice still echoing from his unnatural mouth. A spiked fist opens to reveal a glowing stone; blue flame smoulders around its surface, and you can feel the currents of power that radiate from its core. Suddenly, his words change and you hear a tongue you know so well&emdash;Sommlending.</p>
- <p><quote>Look on your doom, Kai Lord!</quote></p>
- <p>There is a deafening crack, a surge of power, and a fireball of blue flame hurtles towards your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the body of the dead Drakkar leader and discover in his pocket a Black Crystal Cube. If you wish to keep the Black Crystal Cube, place it in your pocket and mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>The sound of more Drakkarim thundering down the tower stairs prompts you to leave the other bodies and hurry over to the wooden door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You learn that the dwarves were once the crew of a more conventional vessel, a merchantman that sailed the Tentarias of southern Magnamund. The Tentarias are a vast expanse of lakes and land-locked seas, which connect to form a continuous canal stretching over a thousand miles. They were created, as was the Rymerift of Durenor, by a massive landslide. Three years ago, the dwarves' former captain, a dwarf named Quan, lost his ship, cargo and crew whilst gambling at cards; it seems the unfortunate captain was unaware of Banedon's true profession until it was far too late. As a result Banedon became the dwarves' captain, and ever since they have adventured with him across the lands and skies of Southern Magnamund. The <cite>Skyrider</cite> itself was given to Banedon by the Magicians of Dessi, in return for his help in defeating the Gagadoth&emdash;a monstrous creature that terrorized their land, over which their own sorcery could not prevail.</p>
- <p>The <cite>Skyrider</cite> was travelling from Dessi on its way to Barrakeesh when you appeared. The dwarves have overheard your talk with Banedon and are excited by the prospects of a new adventure. They seem undaunted by the deadly dangers that it will certainly involve.</p>
- <choice idref="sect359"><link-text>Turn to 359</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense tells you that the house at the end of the alleyway is Tipasa's home. You signal to Banedon to follow as you approach the blue door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a moment, your sense of bearing is completely lost as you tumble and spin into the void, unaware of what is happening to your body. You try to cry out, but your cries are lost on the wind as it rushes past. You hit the upper branches of a toa tree. You are stunned by the crash, and your body becomes numb.</p>
- <p>By the time your broken body is found by the Drakkarim, you have bled to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the young magician lower his staff, a trace of a smile on his pain-racked face.</p>
- <p><quote>Alas, I was too slow to shield myself,</quote> he says wryly, as you kneel at his side and free the spear that pins him to the floor. The wound is serious, and you hastily staunch that bleeding with strips of cloth from his dark blue robes.</p>
- <p>The wizard then introduces himself. <quote>I am Banedon, Journeymaster to the Guild of the Crystal Star,</quote> he says, his voice weak and shaky. <quote>However, you need not introduce yourself, Lone Wolf, for only you would attract such company this far from home.</quote> He glances at the Kraan-riders swooping past the sky-ship on every side. <quote>Help me to my feet&emdash;we must escape before they drag us from the sky.</quote></p>
- <p>You support the wizard as he grasps the ship's helm&emdash;a radiant crystal sphere with hundreds of glowing facets set upon a slim silver rod.</p>
- <p>No sooner has his hand closed around the crystal than there is a tremendous explosion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Focusing your skill on a money pouch that hangs from the sentry's belt, you concentrate on untying the leather thong that secures it. Seconds later, the pouch drops to the ground and spills its contents. The guard yelps in horror as he sees his gold rolling over the edge of the platform and drops to his knees to gather what little remains. As he turns his back, you break cover and run across the gangplank. Your speed and stealth carry you across the gangplank undetected. When you strike, the guard is still on his knees, picking up his scattered gold. Your attack is silent and deadly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to search the guard's body, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you decide to ignore the body, hurry into the Itikar's pen and <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside, the eating house is full of townsfolk, all seated at small stone tables. Ornate hubble-bubble pipes add to the colourful atmosphere as the smokers discuss all kinds of matters. A quarrelsome trio of Ikareshi are lamenting the death of the old Zakhan. Others give voice to various grievances, calling their new leader an ox, a brute and other such names. In your opinion, they speak too highly of him. Two rough-faced Ikareshi bid you welcome and invite you to share their pipe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect362">If you wish to accept their offer, <link-text>turn to 362</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect388">If you wish to decline, you can leave the eating house and continue along the avenue, and <link-text>turn to 388</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards are the first to recover from the surprise of the encounter. They attack, opening a deep wound in your chest. Lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you are still alive and wish to fight the guards, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to try to escape by running back up the stairs, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are trying to decide whether to try prising open the door, when you hear the sound of stone grating on stone. The door slowly opens to reveal a large chamber. It is dimly lit but, in the thick dust which covers the marble floor you can see innumerable footprints.</p>
- <p>Then, as you enter, you catch sight of a rough stone throne, facing the wall on the far side of the chamber. Behind you, the stone door slides shut with unnerving speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vordak removes a bony hand, drenched in blood, from the Itikar's back and claws at a black iron mace hanging from its belt. It raises the weapon and lunges at your head. It is impossible to evade its attack; you must fight the creature to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight, for the Vordak is attacking you with its Mindforce. It is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake shortly after dawn to the sound of snoring dwarves and the low hum of the <cite>Skyrider</cite>. Gathering your equipment, you climb on deck to find everything in shadow, for the <cite>Skyrider</cite> is hovering beneath a massive outcrop of sandstone that juts out from the side of a mountain, thousands of feet above the valley floor below. Banedon stands at the helm, but he is no longer in a trance.</p>
- <p><quote>Kraan-riders,</quote> he says, pointing to the sun-bleached valley beyond the shadows. <quote>They arrived with the dawn.</quote></p>
- <p>You stare out across this alien landscape, a mountain valley filled with pillars of massive and precariously balanced boulders. The Vassagonians call this place the Koos&emdash;<quote>the needles</quote>. The rocky columns reach so high into the sky that an avalanche seems unavoidable. Perched upon two of the columns are Kraan, their Drakkar riders scouring the valley with telescopes. An hour passes before they take to the air and disappear.</p>
- <p><quote>Trim the boom-sail, Bo'sun Nolrim,</quote> orders Banedon, his voice barely audible above the increasing hum of the <cite>Skyrider</cite>. <quote>We've a fast run ahead.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess a Black Crystal Cube, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the bands of iron as footholds, you clamber to the top of the door. Long spikes protrude from the timber crossbar, each coated with an oily black tar. Just as you are stepping over the spikes, the guards fire their crossbows.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the Kai rank of Guardian or higher, subtract 2 from the number you have picked. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, subtract 1 from this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect363">If your total score is below 4, <link-text>turn to 363</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If your score is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon takes over the helm as his extraordinary ship, the <cite>Skyrider</cite>, as the dwarves call it, speeds through the gathering darkness towards the Dahir Pass. Visibility diminishes with each passing minute until, finally, you can see no further than the outriggers. You feel uneasy; if the <cite>Skyrider</cite> veers but a fraction off course, you will be smashed to pieces against the mountainside.</p>
- <p><quote>Do not worry, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Nolrim, the dwarf with the the velvet satchel. <quote>The Captain will see us through.</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon stands with his hand resting lightly on the glowing crystal, relaxed as if in a trance. His eyes are closed and a crackle of energy, like fine white lightning, traces an intricate pattern over his forehead and temples.</p>
- <p>The dwarf leads you to the cabin at the rear of the craft where the crew are excitedly recounting their victory over the Kraan-riders. They are seated about a table cluttered with plates of steaming food and jugs of foaming ale. The rich smell of spiced meat and Bor-brew fills your nostrils, reminding you of how ravenously hungry you are.</p>
- <p>You make short work of the meat and marrow placed before you. Restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, you are unsure about accepting a jug of ale; Bor-brew is so strong that in many cities of Magnamund it has been banned for fear of the havoc it can cause.</p>
- <choice idref="sect392">If you wish to accept a jug of the notorious ale, <link-text>turn to 392</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you decide to decline the offer, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With speed and stealth you approach the sentry from behind and silence him for good with a sharp twist of the neck. You drag the body away and cover it with a wheelbarrow before entering the Tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect395"><link-text>Turn to 395</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vordak collapses at your feet, but before you can escape, you are surrounded by Drakkarim. A silence fills the arboretum; all is deathly quiet. You prepare to cut your way out, but more of the evil warriors appear. You shiver with a chill of fear&emdash;the Drakkarim reinforcements are armed with heavy bronze crossbows.</p>
- <p>As you shout your battle-cry <quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you are hit by a volley of poison-tipped bolts, which hurl you backwards to the soft earth. The last sound you hear as your life's blood drains away into the soil is the hideous gloating laughter of Darklord Haakon, rising above the ghoulish howl of his Drakkarim.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tying one end of the rope to the parapet rail, you drop the other end over the side and glissade down the tower. You have reached halfway when you see two Drakkarim above you, sawing at the knot. Suddenly, the ropes snaps and you plummet into the void.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If it is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hold tight, Lone Wolf,</quote> shouts Banedon, as he regains control of the glowing crystal helm. You obey and grasp the parapet rail, bracing your feet against a deck cleat for safety, for you have guessed what manoeuvre the young wizard is about to perform.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><quote>Pirate roll!</quote> he shouts to the fighting dwarves</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="645" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="645" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Pirate roll!</quote> he shouts to his fighting dwarves, and jerks the helm to the left. The <cite>Skyrider</cite> responds to his touch, swerving violently as the deck swings from a horizontal to a near-vertical angle. The dwarves heed his cry and throw themselves to the deck, clutching the boards like limpets to a galleon's keel.</p>
- <p>The Drakkarim are caught off-balance and hurtle over the decks and outriggers, tumbling into the void. Banedon rights the craft and a victory cheer resounds across the decks as you speed away from the Koos. <quote>Blood for blood!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Yes, yes. I am Soushilla,</quote> she replies.</p>
- <p><quote>Do you know where we can find Tipasa the wanderer?</quote> asks Banedon.</p>
- <p>The old crone does not reply, she merely holds out her begging bowl in expectation. Banedon loses another crown before she answers his question.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It can take many years for a rider to tame an Itikar, for by nature they are wild and malicious creatures. You use your Kai skill to communicate with the giant bird, to assure it that you mean no harm. It fixes you with a cold, black stare, but you sense that it is no longer hostile.</p>
- <p>As you settle in its wide saddle, you catch sight of the Drakkarim as they stream across the gangplank. Quickly you lean forward, unhook the anchor rope from the saddle ring and grab the thick leather reins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you enter the stables, you are overpowered by the smell of the douggas. You grit your teeth and cover your nose with your robe. A small boy sniggers at your reaction and says, <quote>You're not Ikareshi&emdash;I can tell.</quote> He mimics your grimace, exposing a line of broken teeth.</p>
- <p><quote>Do you know where Tipasa the Wanderer lives?</quote> asks Banedon, holding up a silver ring. The boy's eyes nearly pop out of his head at the sight of the gleaming silver.</p>
- <p><quote>Oh yes, yes, yes I do indeed,</quote> he stammers in his excitement. <quote>Walk up the street and take the first passage on your left. The old wanderer lives at the house with the blue door.</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon flicks the ring into the air and the urchin catches it in his grubby hands. You hurry away from the stables and begin to search for the passageway. Just as you find it, you hear the young boy shriek with disappointment; the ring has just dissolved on his finger. At the end of the rubbish-strewn alley you find the house with the blue door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you climb over the lifeless bodies, you notice a Copper Key on a chain around one of their necks. Grabbing the Key, you slip it into your pocket, and race down the steps towards a dim light below. Mark the Copper Key on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>A small fire, over which is roasting a chicken on a spit, illuminates a guardroom at the base of the tower. On the back of a wrought-iron chair hangs a Canteen of Water, and lying beside it is a razor-sharp Broadsword. You may take either of these items if you wish, and mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (the Canteen is a Backpack Item).</p>
- <p>You hear the Drakkarim rushing down the tower stairs. They will soon be upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to leave the tower by a door in the north wall, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to prepare yourself for combat and wait for the Drakkarim to appear, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your golden sword just in time to deflect the bolt of raw energy. It screams from your blade and explodes into the chamber wall, gouging a hole several feet deep in the steel-hard rock. The impact jars the Sommerswerd from your hand; the blade arcs through the dust-choked air and embeds itself, upright, in the stone floor. You roll across the floor and take cover behind a pillar.</p>
- <p><quote>Your doom, Kai Lord,</quote> spits Haakon, <quote>is but seconds away.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to retrieve the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you wish to try to move to a new hiding place, under cover of the swirling dust, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dwarves are clearing the deck of battle debris. A dead Drakkar lies sprawled face down across a pile of chests and sacks roped beneath the boom-sail. As the dwarves grab his legs to cast him over the side he suddenly springs to life, sending the dwarves tumbling in all directions. He screams like a fiend, his black axe cutting a wide arc around his blood-smeared body. A curse, vile and evil, echoes from his death-mask as he draws back the axe to throw. His target is you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting or Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you have neither of these skills, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect354">If the number you of picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 354</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect371">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 371</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Below the bell-tower you see a line of Itikar pens, each with its own circular landing platform. Itikar are a breed of huge black birds that nest in eyries high in the peaks of the Dahir and Vakar mountains. The Vassagonians have long since tamed these giants of the skies, using them as winged mounts for their army leaders, their scouts, couriers and envoys.</p>
- <p>An Itikar and rider swoop down out of the reddening sky and alight upon the platform nearest to the bell-tower. Slaves hurl a rope to the rider, who in turn fixes it to a saddle ring before he jumps to the ground. The Itikar caws and beats its huge wings as it is slowly winched into the pen by a hidden capstan.</p>
- <p>The rider and the slaves leave the platform; there is now only one sentry on guard at the pen. If you can overpower him, you can make your escape on the back of the giant bird.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you possess a Blowpipe and Sleep Dart, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you do not have these Items, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Tipasa can be found at the main square&emdash;he is always there at this time of day,</quote> cringes the woman, her face creased into an exaggerated smile.</p>
- <choice idref="sect358">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 358</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you unsheathe the Sommerswerd, a vivid golden flame shoots along the blade. The Vordak shrieks in terror, its blood-drenched bony fingers clawing at a black iron mace that hangs from its belt. It raises the mace to parry your blow, but the sun-sword shears through the iron, a splash of blue flame erupting in its wake. You strike again, curving the golden blade in a great arc. It bites into the Vordak's neck, tearing through its unnatural body, and severing it diagonally from collar bone to hip. A sickening acidic smell chokes your throat as a fountain of green slime erupts from beneath the red robe. The Vordak crumples and topples from view, its dissolving corpse hissing as its spirals towards Lake Inrahim.</p>
- <p>Sheathing your sword, you grab the reins and fight to control your injured mount. You have slain the Vordak but the battle is not yet won. The Itikar is losing a lot of blood; it could become unconscious at any moment and drop like a stone.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you spot something in the distance. It is a sight that renews your faith in miracles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger to your feet to see the <cite>Skyrider</cite> being engulfed by Drakkarim; they leap from their shrieking Kraan and crash on to the decks and outriggers, their black swords already drawn from their scabbards. The dwarves are caught by surprise; their weapons have been unloaded and stored below deck. Even so, they are quick to rally and fight with skill and fury. Above the din you hear Nolrim's joyous battle-cry, <quote>Blood for blood!</quote></p>
- <p>An unexpected blow catches you squarely on the back, knocking you from the platform to the deck below. You have risen to one knee when your assailant attacks again. You cannot evade him.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the surprise of the attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 for the first 3 rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blood is pounding in your ears as you bound up the marble steps. Twenty feet ahead of you, there is a landing with a stone door set into the wall. The stairs continue to ascend to a parapeted walkway, at the end of which is another stone door, identical to the first. Suddenly, the door on the first landing swings open and a palace guard wheels round to face you.</p>
- <p><quote>Majhan!</quote> he cries, fumbling for the hilt of his sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you wish to attack the guard before he draws his weapon, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect372">If you wish to barge him aside and continue climbing the stairs, <link-text>turn to 372</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Ah, Tipasa,</quote> he replies thoughtfully. <quote>He lives near the Dougga Market, but exactly where his home is I am not sure&ellips; I haven't seen old Tipasa for years. If you should find him, remind him of Khamsin the Goatherd. He still owes me twelve Crowns&emdash;that I have not forgotten.</quote> You thank the goatherd for his help and bid him farewell before continuing your trek to Ikaresh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Onyx Medallion is beginning to glow and vibrate in your pocket. This Special Item, torn from the armour of a renegade Vassagonian captain during the battle of Ruanon, enables you to communicate with the Itikar. You reassure it that you mean no harm. Itikar are by nature wild and malicious creatures, but the power of the Onyx Medallion tames this natural instinct, subduing them to the wearer's command.</p>
- <p>As you settle in the wide saddle, you catch sight of the Drakkarim streaming across the gangplank. Quickly, you lean forward, unhook the Itikar's anchor rope from the saddle ring and grab the thick leather reins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect320-1-foot" idref="sect320-1">
- <p>Since you are in the middle of a wasteland, you may not use Hunting to get out of the Meal requirement here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dawn is breaking on the horizon of a low hill, blurred and dotted with small tufted trees. Swiftly the <cite>Skyrider</cite> has voyaged through the night to arrive at the foothills of the Koneshi mountains, in whose folds the sky-ship is safely tucked away from watchful eyes. Twenty-five miles to the north, across a landscape of barren rock and dry brush, lies the Tomb of the Majhan.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="304" height="178" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="304" height="178" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You and Banedon set off before the dawn, anxious not to waste either time or the protective cover of darkness. Now, as the great golden disc of the sun rises in the sky, for the first time you can see your goal. A massive excavation has exposed the heart of this scorched land, delving deep around the tombs of its forgotten ancestors. Thousands of Giaks, spiteful and malicious servants of the Darklords, labour unceasingly to remove rock and sand from this quarry, forced by Drakkarim to drag their backbreaking loads up ramps to the rim of the crater.</p>
- <p>Close to the edge of the crater, an encampment of black tents surrounds a large domed canopy. Lying in the shade of this construction is a huge flying creature&emdash;an Imperial Zlanbeast. Its presence here can only mean one thing: Darklord Haakon has arrived. The thought chills your blood, but you draw comfort from the labour of his slaves. That they continue to labour is a sign that their mission has yet to be completed: the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite> has yet to be found.</p>
- <p>It is impossible to approach the crater unseen; you will have to wait for darkness before you attempt to enter the Tomb. During the long wait, it is agreed that Banedon should attempt to find Tipasa. It is likely that he is being held captive inside the encampment&emdash;the Darklords would be unlikely to kill him before discovering the treasure they seek.</p>
- <p>During the day, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<a id="sect320-1" idref="sect320-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place the Oede herb upon the stone bridge and step back. At first the vaxeler is a suspicious and frightened&emdash;nobody has dared to enter his cave for many years. But when he recognizes the golden leaves of the Oede herb, he breaks down, weeping tears of joy.</p>
- <p><quote>May the Majhan bless you&emdash;may you live in eternal peace,</quote> he cries, his feeble voice brimming over with emotion. <quote>How can I ever repay this kindness?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect356">If you wish to question the vaxeler about Tipasa the Wanderer, <link-text>turn to 356</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you wish to leave the cave and press on towards Ikaresh, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs are high and steep. You gasp for breath and force your aching legs to climb, for the Drakkarim are less than a dozen steps behind you. At the top of the tower, an open arch leads out on to a platform where a huge kettledrum stands. This is used by the tower guard to send messages to the other palace towers. A bleached hide is stretched across its surface and a black wooden beater hangs from the side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you wish to push the drum down the tower stairs, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect387">If you prefer to ignore the drum and escape out on to the platform, <link-text>turn to 387</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The explosion is followed by a huge cloud of smoke, which engulfs a cabin perched on the rear deck. As the noise rumbles across the desolate salt-plain, you hear the agonizing shriek of a wounded Kraan; it spirals past the platform, a ragged hole rent in its broken wing.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The smoke clears to reveal the grinning face of a dwarf at the cabin window</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="661" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="661" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The smoke clears to reveal the grinning face of a dwarf at the cabin window. A smear of soot blackens his rosy cheeks and exaggerates the whiteness of his crooked teeth. He is holding a tube of smoking steel that you assume to be a magic staff, until you notice that each of the dwarf crew carry identical staves. As they point them at the swooping Kraan, gouts of smoke and flame bellow from their tips. Suddenly you recognize the weapons and their wielders&emdash;they are dwarves from the mountain kingdom of Bor, armed with one of the inventions for which these ingenious artisans are justly famous throughout Magnamund.</p>
- <p>The Kraan are terrified by the noise; they turn their leathery tails and fly away, their Drakkar riders powerless to stop them. The primitive guns have claimed only one victim, but nevertheless, they have driven off the enemy and saved the sky-ship from disaster.</p>
- <p>Banedon steers the craft about, banking steeply until the ship faces the darkening peaks of the southern mountains and the distinct V-shaped cleft of the Dahir Pass.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If it is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than ten feet from the sentry when he senses that something is wrong. He turns to confront you just as you are making your attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Sentry</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you win the combat, hide the body and enter the tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect395"><link-text>Turn to 395</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking care to load the Blowpipe correctly, you raise the unfamiliar weapon to your lips and take aim. The sentry is standing very still; he makes a perfect target. You inflate your cheeks and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill (any weapon), add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect384">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 384</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect398">If your total is now 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 398</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Walk along the street to the Dougga Market. Behind the stables there is an alley. Tipasa lives there, in the house with the blue door.</quote></p>
- <p>As you make your way through the dancing crowd to the tavern door, you take care to keep both hands on your belt pouch. An embarrassed Banedon follows in your footsteps, cursing his misfortune under his breath.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your blow has opened a wide gash in both the Drakkar and his mount. The Kraan spins uncontrollably, discarding its black-clad rider as it spirals earthwards. With the terrible cries of the doomed Drakkar fading below, you wheel to the south to avoid being caught between the two converging squadrons of Kraan-riders.</p>
- <p>The quick change of direction increases the distance between you and your pursuers, but the Itikar is badly wounded and you are close to despair; your mount is losing so much blood that it could lapse into unconsciousness at any moment, dropping you like a stone on to Lake Inrahim.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, you spot something in the distance. It is a sight that renews your faith in miracles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The merchant's face beams with joy as he pockets your gold. Deduct this from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p><quote>The first alley on the left past the stables,</quote> he says. <quote>He lives in the house with the blue door.</quote></p>
- <p>You hurry across the crowded marketplace towards the stables and enter the street beyond. As you turn into the rubbish-strewn alley, you see the blue door facing you at the end of the passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heavy copper drum rolls from its wooden base and crashes down the tower stair, a thunderous boom echoing from the dark as it careers on a collision course with the enemy. The screams of horror are cut short as the drum hurtles through the ranks of the Drakkarim, crushing them into the hard stone steps.</p>
- <p>Your quick action has scattered your pursuers, but victory turns sour when you discover that you are trapped; there are no other stairs from the platform. You have delayed the Drakkarim, but your reprieve is only temporary.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you possess a Rope, you can attempt to climb down to the gardens below. <link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect387">If you do not possess a Rope, <link-text>turn to 387</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You parry the Drakkar's blow and turn it aside, but he is quick to recover. He turns to face you and bellows a vile curse, his broadsword arcing back towards your skull.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win the combat, and it lasts for 2 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect394">If the combat lasts more than 2 rounds, <link-text>turn to 394</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect331-1-foot" idref="sect331-1">
- <p>To solve this puzzle you will need to use the <a idref="map">Map of the Empire of Vassagonia</a> with the code instructions in mind before coming back to this section. The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. If you do not see this footnote at the bottom, you have chosen the wrong section. Come back to this section, reconsider the code and make your selection again, repeating the process until you turn to the correct section. There is no alternate way to proceed through the adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have little sleep that night as you lie thinking about the quest that lies before you, haunted by the fear that the Darklords may already have found the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>.</p>
- <p>You rise before dawn and breakfast on a meal of sheep's butter and dried milk cake, before bidding farewell to Tipasa's wife. The trek back to the <cite>Skyrider</cite> passes uneventfully, and by noon you have reached the rocky crag where the craft is moored. Nolrim is the first to greet you, but he cannot hide his disappointment that you have returned unaccompanied.</p>
- <p><quote>Do not worry&emdash;the answer lies here,</quote> says Banedon, holding up Tipasa's diary. <quote>Prepare to set sail.</quote></p>
- <p>As the <cite>Skyrider</cite> rises into the clear blue sky, Banedon hands over the helm to Nolrim and bids you follow him to his quarters at the prow. For three hours he pours over his charts, making calculations, checking instrument readings and racking his brain for the solution that will pinpoint the Tomb of the Majhan.</p>
- <p><quote>It's no use,</quote> he says, tired and exasperated. <quote>I cannot fathom these numbers.</quote></p>
- <p>As you peer at the pages of Tipasa's diary, suddenly you realize that they are written in code. What Banedon had assumed to be positions of stars are a code to three numbers that give the precise location of the Tomb.</p>
- <p>Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> to help you discover the location of the Tomb of the Majhan.</p>
- <p>The first of the three numbers is equal to the number of oases on the trail between Ikaresh and Bir Rabalou. The second number is equal to the number of cities in Vassagonia. The third number is equal to the number of islands off the coast of Cape Kabar.</p>
- <p>When you have broken the code, write the numbers in order and turn to the entry number that they indicate.<a id="sect331-1" idref="sect331-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Leaving the arbour, you press on towards the outer wall of the arboretum. Through the dense foliage you can make out a narrow, arched doorway that leads to an open chamber. A stairway ascends to a parapeted walkway, at the end of which is a stone door. You are halfway up the stairs when the sound of a crossbow being cocked freezes your blood. To turn back now would be suicide; you grit your teeth and bound up the stairs as a hail of crossbow fire slams into the steps on either side of you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect372"><link-text>Turn to 372</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You catch a glimpse of Nolrim fighting his way through a mass of red-cloaked Drakkarim, his two-handed battle-axe bringing down three of them in as many blows. He cuts a path to your side and points with his bloodstained axe to a creature hovering high above the <cite>Skyrider</cite>.</p>
- <p>You recognize it to be a Zlanbeast, creature rather like a Kraan but far larger than its leathery subspecies. Upon its back sits a red-robed Vordak, a staff of black iron in its skeletal hand. There is a flash, and a stream of liquid blue flame pours from its tip.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you do not have the Special Item, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with two grim-faced warriors. They block the stair and you must fight both of them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to avoid combat at any time by running back up the spiral staircase, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the death-blow, the Dhorgaan shimmers and winks out of existence. Darklord Haakon reels back as if weakened by the death of his creation. The glowing stone falls from his hand and rolls across the chamber, coming to rest midway between you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to attempt to grab the stone, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect390">If you wish to ignore the stone and attack Haakon, <link-text>turn to 390</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing at a fortified platform in the centre of the strange craft is a blond-haired young man with deep, brooding eyes. Instantly you recognize him: it is Banedon, the young Sommlending magician who gave you the Crystal Star Pendant at the ruins of Raumas, after you saved his life in a Giak ambush.</p>
- <p>You are so stunned by his unexpected appearance that you fail to notice the blood seeping from the Itikar's mouth; the creature is near to death. Suddenly, the great bird lets out a pitiful and agonized caw, its wings stiffen and its head falls limp as the last flicker of life escapes from its torn body. It pitches you forward, and your stomach heaves as you plummet towards Lake Inrahim.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect374">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 374</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without the breeze of the speeding <cite>Skyrider</cite> to cool you, the heat of the mountains is almost unbearable. You trudge across the loose reddish sand, your faces covered to keep the dust from choking your throats. All that seems to grow in this desolate waste is the wire-hard grass that tears at your boots and leggings.</p>
- <p>As you reach the outskirts of Ikaresh, you pass a small round hut where a goat is eating from a manger by the door. A man appears at the darkened doorway and bids you welcome; he touches his forehead in a salute of friendship and invites you both to enter his humble home.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="329" height="122" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="329" height="122" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect365">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 365</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to accept his invitation, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to decline his offer and continue towards Ikaresh, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your skill for unarmed combat taught to you by your Kai masters, you grab the startled guard by the throat and pitch him over the low wall at the edge of the landing. His cry of terror fills the air until he crashes into the flagstones below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect372">If you wish to continue climbing the stairs towards the door of the walkway, <link-text>turn to 372</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to enter the door through which the guard came, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two dwarves clamber on to the platform and hurry to their young captain's side. One flicks open a red velvet satchel strapped to his barrel-like chest, and removes a glass vial and a clean linen bandage. They attend to the wound, and, as his strength returns, Banedon listens intently to your account of the terrifying events that have led up to this meeting. As you conclude your woeful tale, Banedon speaks, his voice full of grim determination.</p>
- <p><quote>The future of Sommerlund rests in our hands, Lone Wolf. We must stop Darklord Haakon from destroying the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>. I have heard tell of the Tomb of the Majhan from the nomads of the Dry Main. They say it is a terrible place, a place of horror and death&emdash;for what little there is left to die there. It lies beyond the Dahir, near the oasis of Bal-loftan. That is all I know, for the Majhan hid their tombs well and what few traces remained have long since disappeared beneath the shifting sands of the Dry Main.</quote></p>
- <p>Your face conveys the disappointment you feel upon hearing these words.</p>
- <p><quote>However, all is not lost,</quote> says Banedon, undaunted. <quote>There is a man who can guide us there. His name is Tipasa Edarouk&emdash;</quote>Tipasa the Wanderer<quote>. It is he who we must seek, for he is the only man who has ever entered the Tomb of the Majhan and lived to tell the tale.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect302"><link-text>Turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes over an hour to shake off the Adu-kaw, by which time you have been chased through most of Ikaresh. Had it not been for Banedon's timely casting of a spell of illusion, they would be after you still. You cannot help but laugh when you picture their faces, when they saw the Kalkoth leaping at them; thank the gods they did not think to question how a Kalte ice-beast came to be roaming the streets of their town.</p>
- <p>When you have fully recovered from the chase, you leave the narrow alley in which you have been hiding, and press on in search of Tipasa the Wanderer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step over the lifeless bodies, you notice a Copper Key on a chain around one of their necks. Grabbing the Key, you slip it into your pocket and race down the tower steps. (Mark the Key as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). At the entrance, you see a crowd of Drakkarim and palace guards rushing across the bridge&emdash;certain death awaits you there. You continue down the spiral stairs towards a dim light below.</p>
- <p>A small fire, over which roasts a chicken on a spit, illuminates a guardroom at the base of the tower. On the back of a wrought-iron chair hangs a Canteen of Water and a Broadsword. You may take either or both of these items if you wish, but remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (The Canteen is a Backpack Item.)</p>
- <p>You hear the enemy thundering down the stairs; they will soon be upon you. However, a heavy wooden door in the north wall offers you another chance of escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you wish to escape from the guard room by this door, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The delicious smell of freshly brewed jala wafts from an eating-house halfway along the avenue. Chattering voices mingle with the clink of glasses, and the wailing cry of a hungry baby fills the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to enter the eating-house, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to continue along the avenue, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are jerked backwards in the saddle as the Itikar leaves its perch. It shrieks and caws, its wings beating as loud as thunder. A handful of Drakkarim are scattered as if they were rag dolls as the great black bird emerges from the pen and takes to the sky. You catch a glimpse of a Drakkar, his death-mask slashed in two by the bird's razor-sharp talons, as he pitches from the landing platform and tumbles to his death in the palace gardens far below.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You catch a glimpse of the Drakkar, his death-mask slashed in two, pitched from the landing platform</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="695" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="695" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The golden domes of the Grand Palace grow smaller as the Itikar gathers speed. Soon, you have passed over the city wall and are heading out towards the shimmering salt-flats of Lake Inrahim. The land below is bathed in beautiful orange twilight, as the sun slowly sinks behind the Dahir mountains to the west. Elated by your escape, you throw back your head and give voice to a triumphant yell that is carried away on the chill evening wind.</p>
- <p>As if in answer to your cry, an echoing chorus of shrieks pierce the sky. Fear returns to your heart as you catch sight of a flock of Kraan, hideous leathery-winged fliers. Each carries a Drakkar warrior on its back. They are over a mile behind you, but they are quickly closing the gap. Less than an hour of light remains; if you can evade them a little longer, you may be able to lose them when night falls.</p>
- <p>You must decide in which direction to fly, for you are now above the centre of Lake Inrahim&emdash;consult the <a idref="map">map</a> at the front of this book before making your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to steer the Itikar south towards the Dahir pass, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to head east towards the town of Chula, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old man's face is a mask of putrescent green sores. The pupils of his eyes are yellow, and his ragged grey lips hang in tatters. He suffers from vaxelus, an infectious disease that rots the skin and attacks the nerves, resulting in hideous mutilation and deformity. He has been cast from his community, banished to this cave where he must eke out his last few years of life in misery and solitude.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you possess some Oede herb and wish to give it to the poor vaxeler, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you do not have any Oede herb, or if you do not wish to give it to this unfortunate wretch, flee the cave and <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glimpse the silhouette of Darklord Haakon in the hall below, his spiked fist raised. There is a deafening crack as a bolt of blue lightning streaks from a stone in the Darklord's hand and hurtles towards you. You dive for cover behind the body of the Drakkar as the bolt explodes. In a flash of light, the Drakkar is gone. Only cinders and the rotten odour of scorched flesh remain.</p>
- <p>You scramble to your feet and sprint along the passage. Another bolt hurdles from the hall, tearing into the ceiling with shattering effect. Splinters of razor-sharp marble whistle down, slashing your cloak and tunic. You race down some stairs, through a silver archway and along a balcony that overlooks the lower palace. A peal of bells and the crunch of iron-shod boots echo in your ears&emdash;the Zakhan has sounded the alarm, his guards close in on every side.</p>
- <p>At the end of the balcony is another arch and a staircase: both look deserted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect381">If you wish to escape through the arch, <link-text>turn to 381</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to race up the stairs, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By the side of the street, an old man is selling assortment of rugs and carpets from the back of a wagon. Banedon approaches him and the two converse for several minutes. Finally, the wizard hands the old man a ring; his wrinkled face beams with joy. Banedon returns to you with good news.</p>
- <p><quote>The house with the blue door&emdash;at the end of the alley we passed a short while ago. Tipasa lives there.</quote></p>
- <p>As you retrace your steps and enter the dingy passage, you hear the old man shriek with disappointment: the ring has just dissolved on his finger.</p>
- <p>At the end of the alley you find the house with the blue door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wincing from the pain of your wound, you snatch the reins back and urge the Itikar to climb higher. The Drakkar is now over a hundred feet below, but he is bringing the shrieking Kraan around for another attack.</p>
- <p>You wheel to the south to avoid being caught between the two converging squadrons of Kraan-riders. Your sudden change of direction increases the distance between you and your pursuers, but your feathered mount is badly wounded and you are close to despair; the Itikar is losing so much blood that it could become unconscious at any moment, and drop you like a stone on to the distant surface of Lake Inrahim below.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you spot something in the distance. It is a sight that renews your faith in miracles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, you catch sight of Banedon. His arm is raised above the armoured parapet of the platform, and in his hand he holds a slender blue rod. A torrent of water gushes from the rod, arcing into the sky to meet the deluge of liquid flame. There is a tremendous explosion as the elements collide, and a massive whirlpool of flame and water spirals towards the Vordak.</p>
- <p>The Vordak shrieks with terror but it is too late&emdash;its fate is sealed. The whirlpool consumes the Zlanbeast and its rider in a massive burst of sun-like brilliance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The golden blade sings in your hand, a crackle of pure energy spreading along its razor-sharp edge. You strike a tremendous blow, splitting the Vordak's skull to the teeth. It releases an awful howl of unearthly evil, pain, terror and death. As it falls, its skeletal body dissolves into a smoking green fluid, shrivelling the plants on the ground beneath.</p>
- <p>The Drakkarim hesitate as the golden light of the sun-sword glints on their shiny black death-masks; you see your chance and run straight at them, slashing to left and right. A Drakkar raises his shield, but your blade slices clean through the iron-sheathed wood, severing his arm at the shoulder. Wheeling round, you catch another Drakkar in mid-attack, tearing open his black armour with the sword as if it were merely parchment. He screams in agony, but you disappear into the dense foliage before his body falls lifelessly to the soft earth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect350-1-foot" idref="sect350-1">
- <p>Erase the Sommerswerd from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may restore it to your inventory once the adventure is over.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you break cover, another burst of energy leaps from the Darklord's fist. It explodes into the base of the pillar, severing it from the floor, and the roof above caves in with a tremendous roar.<a id="sect350-1" idref="sect350-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The shock wave throws you to the floor, flattening you against the cold marble flagstones. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Haakon's laugh can still be heard above the crash of falling stone. In rises in pitch until it fills your head with agonizing pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect369">If you do not possess this Kai Discipline, <link-text>turn to 369</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect351">
- <meta><title>351</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the door, Banedon offers you a word of advice. <quote>Take care to guard your gold, Lone Wolf. Nothing tempts the Ikareshi more than a full purse. You can trust their honour, but if you trust their honesty they will steal the hair from your head.</quote></p>
- <p>Inside, the mood is one of celebration. Tables have been drawn together to form a large semicircle in front of which stands a small, broad-shouldered man dressed lavishly in an embroidered costume. A gold-mounted sword hangs by his side, its blue velvet scabbard as vivid in colour as the man's silk pantaloons. Affectionately, the man embraces his companions, kissing the friends and relatives who have travelled so many miles to celebrate his wedding. At his side sits his bride, her face concealed behind a veil of shimmering pearls. Suddenly, the tavern is filled with music as the guests take the floor for the wedding dance.</p>
- <p>On the far side of the floor you see the owner of the tavern, a stout old lady dressed in sombre black. She watches the festivities with tears in her eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to approach her and ask where Tipasa the Wanderer may be found, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to leave the tavern and continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect352">
- <meta><title>352</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the portal lies a vaulted corridor leading to a grand stairway. You narrowly avoid confrontation with a dozen Drakkarim, saved by your lightning reactions. As the enemy rush from an archway on the second floor landing, you dive behind a statue of the recently deceased Zakhan Moudalla. They are so intent on their chase that they fail to notice your hiding place and hurry down the stairs, grunting in their heavy armour as they run. Silently, you give thanks that Zakhan Moudalla was a very stout man and that his statue casts a very large shadow in which to hide.</p>
- <p>At the top of the stairway you discover a hatch, which gives access to the roof. You climb through it and follow a path of sun-bleached tiles that wind in and out of the domes and turrets, eventually leading to a bell-tower.</p>
- <p>You are exhausted and need to rest, your mind still full of the shock of your encounter with Darklord Haakon. The sound of his terrible voice repeating the words <quote><cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite></quote> echoes again and again in your mind.</p>
- <p>With desperation sapping your will, you peer out through a grille in the bell-tower. The sight before you renews your flagging hope, for it inspires a daring escape plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313"><link-text>Turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect353">
- <meta><title>353</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you slay the last of the Crypt Spawn, Haakon reels back as if weakened by the death of his creatures. You raise the Sommerswerd, willing the blade to discharge a bolt of power that will burn the evil Darklord from the face of Magnamund forever. The blade shimmers with golden fire, but no searing blast issues from its tip. Suddenly, you realize what has happened; you are beneath the earth, and there is no sun from which the sword can draw its power.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You raise the Sommerswerd, willing the blade to discharge a bolt of power at Haakon</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill21.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill21.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Haakon utters a terrible laugh that shakes the floor. A beam of blue flame is growing from the stone in his hand, forming a fiery blade that crackles and spits as it cuts through the dust-choked air. The stench of death and decay fills your nostrils as the Darklord prepares to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Darklord Haakon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect400">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 400</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect354">
- <meta><title>354</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the deck, but the axe blade strikes your thigh, drawing a crimson line across the skin. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Suddenly, a deafening bang rings out and the Drakkar is flung backwards, his breastplate torn open by dwarf shot. He gives a long, agonizing death-cry as he disappears from sight, tumbling into the darkness that surrounds the speeding ship.</p>
- <p>From Barrakeesh, a roll of thunder rumbles across the darkening plain. It is full of brooding menace, as if the city itself were cursing your escape. Banedon appears at your side, his face line with concern for your condition. As he offers a shaky hand to help you to stand, you notice that the makeshift bandage that binds his wound is soaked with blood. He is pale and weak, and close to collapse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect377">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 377</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you do not possess the skill, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect355">
- <meta><title>355</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You roll away a split second before the mace smashes down, crushing the dark soil were your head once lay. Unless you have the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat, for the Vordak is attacking you with the power of its Mindforce. This creature is immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win and the fight lasts 4 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect356">
- <meta><title>356</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I knew Tipasa once, when my body was young and strong like yours. We fought the Lakuri pirates at Samiz and voyaged to a distant land where ice and snow lay thick on the ground, and the sun had not the power to melt them. Yes, I knew Tipasa the Wanderer&ellips; once. All I know now is that he dwells in Ikaresh. Find the widow Soushilla&emdash;she will know. She knows all that passes in Ikaresh.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect357">
- <meta><title>357</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gangplank springs up and down as you stride across the gap, and you are forced to slow your pace for fear of falling over the edge. The sentry wheels round, alerted by the noise of creaking planks. He runs to intercept your attack, his spear levelled to thrust at your waist. You cannot avoid combat and must fight the sentry to the death. Deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight, for the plank on which you are standing is very unstable.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Platform Sentry</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect293">If at any time during this combat you pick a 1 from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, you lose your balance and fall. <link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you win the combat and decide to search the sentry's body, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you win but decide to ignore the body and hurry into the Itikar's pen, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect358">
- <meta><title>358</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the old woman is lying. She is not Soushilla the widow&emdash;she is a fraud, attempting to fleece you of your gold. When you confront her, she turns tail and disappears into the alley like a bolt of lightning.</p>
- <p><quote>Let her go,</quote> says Banedon. <quote>Our time is worth more than the gold she took.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect388">If you wish to continue along the Avenue of Eagles, <link-text>turn to 388</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect376">If you decide to retrace your steps to the Eagle Square, you can either go north towards the Dougga Market, by <link-text>turning to 376</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">Or west towards the Main Square, by <link-text>turning to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect359">
- <meta><title>359</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fatigue of your ordeal finally catches up with you; you are finding it impossible to keep your eyes open. Nolrim shows you to a bunk in the hull of the <cite>Skyrider</cite>. Gratefully you climb into bed and pull the blankets over your aching limbs. Nolrim apologizes that the bunk is too short, but his words fall on deaf ears&emdash;you are already asleep. Restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for this much needed rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect360">
- <meta><title>360</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two black-clad guards suddenly appear on the stairs below. You are both surprised by the encounter and are slow to react.</p>
- <p>Pick a number for the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 1 to the number you have picked. Now, pick another number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If the second number is less than the first, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If it is more than the first number, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If it is exactly the same, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect361">
- <meta><title>361</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ducking beneath the boom-sail, you clamber on to the platform in time to witness a desperate struggle. The blond-haired magician is pinned to the deck, his left arm skewered by a spear. With a staff in his right hand, he is trying to fend off the dismounted Kraan-rider. The Drakkar senses your presence; he whirls round and draws a twisted black scimitar from its scabbard.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you win and the fight lasts 3 rounds of combat or less, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect382">If the fight continues to a fourth round of combat, do not resolve it. Instead, <link-text>turn immediately to 382</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect362">
- <meta><title>362</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The smoke is cool and fragrant. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of your hosts. Their long coats of Dougga hide are perfumed with a musk that holds no appeal for Sommlending nostrils.</p>
- <p>A young girl appears with a tray full of steaming jala cups. <quote>1 Crown each,</quote> she says, as she places the tray upon the table.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you wish to purchase a cup of the delicious beverage, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect388">If you not wish to purchase a cup of jala, or do not have any gold, you must bid farewell and leave the eating-house. <link-text>Turn to 388</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect363">
- <meta><title>363</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive into the garden below, avoiding death by a fraction of a second. The crossbow bolts ricochet off the poison-tipped spikes and shoot into the air, the whine of their twisted metal shafts fading into the sky.</p>
- <p>The enclosed garden is full of the fragrance of exotic plants and flowers, clustered around a sculptured pool of deep blue water. It is a beautiful sight but one that you dare not stop to enjoy. The palace guards are sure to give chase and you must keep moving.</p>
- <p>Ahead, beyond a tree-lined colonnade, a flight of steps ascends to a small portal in the wall of the upper palace. To your right, a leafy tunnel winds away into the shrubs and trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect352">If you do not possess this skill, you can either climb the stairs to the small portal by <link-text>turning to 352</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect391">Or follow the winding path into the trees, by <link-text>turning to 391</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect364">
- <meta><title>364</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is moving, at first only imperceptibly, but in the space of a few minutes, the dwarves and the cabin have become a blur of colour. You grasp the table, your knuckles whitening as you fight to control the feeling of dizziness that overcomes you. Sounds seem distant like echoes in a cave. Suddenly, the spinning stops and blackness engulfs your senses. You have collapsed unconscious to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect380"><link-text>Turn to 380</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect365">
- <meta><title>365</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the man's show of friendship is genuine. He may be able to help you find Tipasa the Wanderer if you accept his hospitality.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to enter his home, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you decide to press on towards Ikaresh, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect366">
- <meta><title>366</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nervously, you wait for the chance to leap up and open the door, but the crossbow bolts ricocheting from the wall and parapet are increasing in number. Suddenly, the sound of running footsteps sends a cold shiver down your spine; the Drakkarim are storming the stairs&emdash;it is now or never!</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet and run to the door, grasping the iron bolt between trembling fingers. As you fight to open it, a pain tears through your back: you have been hit. Another bolt strikes home, sinking deep into your shoulder and throwing you flat against the door.</p>
- <p>As darkness falls before your eyes, you are unaware of the Drakkarim leaping towards you, their black swords raised for the death-blow. Their blades bite deep but you feel nothing: you are already dead.</p>
- <choice>Your life and the hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect367">
- <meta><title>367</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently, you are beginning to despair. The street is becoming narrower and more disgusting the further you go. A scraggy cat dashes across your path, closely pursued by an equally scraggy street urchin; the dagger that he carries in his hand suggests he is trying to catch his supper.</p>
- <p>You are about to give up and suggest to Banedon that you should retrace your steps to the junction, when the street ends and turns abruptly left. A sign on the opposite wall points to the Dougga Market.</p>
- <choice idref="sect376">If you wish to follow the sign, <link-text>turn to 376</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to go back to the fork and take the other street, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect368">
- <meta><title>368</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The axe bites deeply into your calf, making you cry out in pain and surprise. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, before the guard can strike again, you lash out, sending the axe spinning from his hand. He howls, clutching broken fingers to his chest.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth, you hobble away towards an open door. The air is alive with the sound of pounding feet, for the Grand Palace is now on full alert. Both the Drakkarim and a palace guard are bent on finding you; their lives will be forfeit if they fail.</p>
- <p>Beyond the door, a bridge rises over an enclosed garden, joining the palace to a needle-like tower of white marble. At the entrance to the bridge, a narrow stair disappears into the garden below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect396">If you wish cross the bridge and enter the tower, <link-text>turn to 396</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you decide to descend the stair that leads to the garden below, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect369">
- <meta><title>369</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terrible pain causes spasms throughout every muscle of your body, making them twist and contort uncontrollably. You plead for the agony to cease. Lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you are still alive after this psychic ordeal, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect370">
- <meta><title>370</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sidestep to avoid its slashing beak but are caught by its talons and suffer a deep wound to your back. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Itikar are wild and malicious creatures, and it can take many years for a rider to tame and train one. However, it is well worth the effort as, once trained, they become fiercely loyal to their master. The Itikar has sensed that you are a stranger and is ferociously attacking you with its long, curved beak and talons.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Itikar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Fight the combat as usual, but double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by the bird. When its score falls to zero, you will have succeeded in subduing it enough to be able to climb into the saddle and take control. All <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose are from ordinary wounds and must be deducted from your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you successfully reduce the Itikar's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect371">
- <meta><title>371</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The axe howls through the dark; you sidestep, guided only by instinct, for you cannot see the lethal axe-blade, which hurtles towards you. Black steel bites into your side, the sudden pain making you gasp in shocked surprise. You clutch at your wounded ribs to feel warm blood oozing through your fingers. Lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>A deafening bang rings out and the Drakkar is flung backwards, his breastplate torn open by dwarf shot. He screams a long, agonizing death-cry as he disappears from sight, tumbling into the darkness, which surrounds the speeding sky-ship. From Barrakeesh, a roll of thunder rumbles across the dark plain, full of brooding menace, as if the city itself were cursing your escape.</p>
- <p>Banedon appears at your side, his face lined with concern. As he offers a shaky hand to help you to your feet, you notice that the makeshift bandage which binds his wound is soaked with blood. He is weak and pale, and close to collapse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect377">If you have the Kai Discipline of Healing, <link-text>turn to 377</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect372">
- <meta><title>372</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A crossbow bolt grazes your shoulder as you reach the walkway, making you dive for cover behind its low parapet wall. You lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Two more bolts ricochet from the stone lip barely inches from your head.</p>
- <p>The stone door is shut, secured by an iron bolt on this side. To pull open the bolt, you will have to expose yourself to crossbow fire, for the bolt is clearly in view above the lip of the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you possess the Kai Discipline of Mind Over Matter, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have this skill, pick a number for the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the Kai rank of Aspirant or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect366">If your total is now is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 366</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect373">
- <meta><title>373</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect373-1-foot" idref="sect373-1">
- <p>This section is the correct answer to the code in <a idref="sect331">Section 331</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>That's it!</quote> exclaims Banedon, stabbing his finger at a map of the Dry Main that covers his chart table. <quote>One hundred and fifteen miles due west of Bir Rabalou; one hundred and fifteen miles due south of the oasis of Bal-loftan.</quote> He picks up a quill pen and marks the spot. <quote>The Tomb of the Majhan.</quote><a id="sect373-1" idref="sect373-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>You study the map and ponder the miles of desolation separating you from your goal. Banedon notices your look of dismay and quickly tries to put your mind at ease.</p>
- <p><quote>Fear not, Lone Wolf&emdash;we'll be there before the dawn.</quote></p>
- <p>You smile at his confidence, but it is not the actual journey that worries you&emdash;your concern is what you may or may not find upon your arrival.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect374">
- <meta><title>374</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you tumble earthwards, a blur of colour flashes before your eyes as the Kraan-riders, the sky-ship and the distant horizon all melt into a kaleidoscope of shapes and images, which you fear will be the last things you will ever see.</p>
- <p>You have prepared yourself for death and are calm and relaxed, when suddenly you feel your body entwined by a mass of sticky fibres. There is a terrific jolt, which leaves you breathless and stunned. The impossible is happening; you are no longer falling, but rising!</p>
- <p>A net of clinging strands has caught you like a fly in a web. You rise up into the sky towards the flying ship as quickly as you fell. Three bearded dwarves clad in bright, padded battle-jerkins pull you aboard an outrigger that runs the length of the hull. However, there is no time to express your gratitude, for the small sky-ship is under attack from the Kraan-riders.</p>
- <p>At the end of the outrigger, a dwarf is engaged in hand-to-hand combat with a snarling Drakkar. He is obviously losing. As you rush to his aid, another of the evil warriors lands in the centre of the craft, on top of the fortified platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to help the dwarf, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect361">If you wish to leap from the outrigger on to the platform, <link-text>turn to 361</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect375">
- <meta><title>375</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beads of sweat break out on the faces of the guards as they frantically race to load their crossbows. Your bold move has unnerved them, and their fear makes them clumsy.</p>
- <p>You reach the top of the steps and attack with the speed of a tiger, dashing the crossbow from a guard's shaking hands with your first blow and splitting his jaw with the second. He screams and falls, toppling from the bridge to crash into the garden below. Meanwhile, the other guard has thrown away his crossbow and drawn a steel mace. He runs at you with hatred blazing in his dark eyes; you have just killed his brother and he is thirsty for revenge. Due to his frenzied state of mind, this guard is now immune to Mindblast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The other guard has drawn a steel mace and runs at you with hatred blazing in his dark eyes</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill22.gif" width="386" height="592" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill22.pdf" width="386" height="592" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect396">If you win the combat, you enter the tower. <link-text>Turn to 396</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect376">
- <meta><title>376</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Forty paces along the street is a barracks, a long white-washed building with ugly square windows. A soldier sits dozing in the evening sun with his spear resting across his lap. Some children are tossing hollowed-out larnuma fruits at him, trying to catch them upon the tip of his spear. Opposite the barracks is a tavern with a line of saddled douggas tied to a rail near the main door. The braying of these sand-horses rivals the sound of revelry drifting from the tavern door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect351">If you wish to enter the tavern, <link-text>turn to 351</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you wish to continue along the street towards the Dougga Market, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect377">
- <meta><title>377</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Clasping your hands around Banedon's injured arm, you concentrate your Kai skill on healing the torn muscle and splintered bone. The warmth of your healing power numbs the pain and repairs the internal damage sufficiently to be able to remove the blood-soaked strips of cloth. The wound is still open, but you have saved the limb.</p>
- <p><quote>We'll help him now, Lone Wolf,</quote> shouts a strange voice. You are surprised by this bold claim and turn round to discover who has made it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339"><link-text>Turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect378">
- <meta><title>378</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pressing yourself against the damp soil, you hold your breath and pray you will not be seen as the Vordak glides into view. Its bony arm is outstretched, and a skeletal finger sweeps the lush undergrowth on either side of the path. You sense the Vordak is using its Mindforce to try to locate your hiding place&emdash;as the finger points in your direction, a wave of pain washes over your body. You are near to crying out, when the pain ceases; you have not been detected. The finger sweeps away and the enemy continues its search along the path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect379">
- <meta><title>379</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terrible pain racks your body, making your muscles twist and contort in spasms of pain. You scream for the agony to cease. Lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you are still alive after the psychic ordeal, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect380">
- <meta><title>380</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly after dawn the following day, you wake with a splitting headache. With bleary eyes you peer around you at the snoring dwarves who occupy the tiny bunks of the cramped cabin. The low hum of the ship only increases the pain that throbs like a demon inside your head, causing you to wince and grit your teeth at the slightest movement of your stiff and aching limbs. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to this monstrous hangover!</p>
- <p>Painfully, you gather up your equipment and climb on deck to find everything in deep shadow, for the <cite>Skyrider</cite> is hovering beneath a massive outcrop of sandstone that juts from the side of a mountain. Banedon still stands at the helm, but he is no longer in a trance.</p>
- <p><quote>Kraan-riders,</quote> he says, pointing to a sun-bleached valley beyond the shadows. <quote>They arrived with the dawn.</quote></p>
- <p>You stare out across an alien landscape, a mountain valley filled with thousands of pillars formed from massive and precariously balanced boulders. The pillars reach so high into the sky that an avalanche looks inevitable. The Vassagonians call this place the Koos&emdash;<quote>the needles</quote>. Perched upon two of these huge rocky columns are Kraan, their Drakkar riders scouring the valley with telescopes. An hour passes before they take to the sky and disappear.</p>
- <p><quote>Trim the boom-sails, Bo'sun Nolrim,</quote> orders Banedon, his voice barely audible above the increasing hum of the <cite>Skyrider</cite>. <quote>We've a fast run ahead.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Perched upon the huge rocky columns are Kraan, their Drakkar riders scouring the valley with telescopes</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill23.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill23.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess a Black Crystal Cube, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect381">
- <meta><title>381</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run through the arch and straight into a black-robed palace guard. You bruise your ribs and the impact throws you off balance, but you manage to grab the wall to stop yourself from falling over. The guard lies sprawled upon the floor, but with incredible swiftness he draws a shining steel axe and lashes out at your legs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Kai Discipline of Hunting, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect368">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 368</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If it is 5-11, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect382">
- <meta><title>382</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect382-1-foot" idref="sect382-1">
- <p>Turn to <a idref="sect399">Section 399</a> if you have ever received the Crystal Star Pendant, regardless of whether or not you possess it now.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Drakkar screams, his limbs outstretched, his gloved hands clawing the air. He is in the grip of some invisible power which is crushing him to death inside his armour.</p>
- <p>You step back as the ghastly sound of cracking bones rises above the screech of the swooping Kraan-riders. The Drakkar crumples to the deck and topples over the edge of the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect399">If you possess a Crystal Star Pendant, <link-text>turn to 399</link-text>.<a id="sect382-1" idref="sect382-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect383">
- <meta><title>383</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You trudge through the loose red sand, your faces covered to protect them from the dust and the blazing heat. The landscape is stark and desolate; all that seems to thrive here is the wire-hard grass that scratches your boots and leggings. You soon come across a dried river bed that leads to a cave in the orange sandstone hillside. A wooden plaque is nailed by the mouth of the cave, but you are unable to understand the strange words painted on its sun-blistered surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to investigate the cave, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to press on towards Ikaresh, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect384">
- <meta><title>384</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you misjudged how hard you need to blow to make the dart reach its intended target. The sleep dart falls short, accidentally hitting a seagull that has alighted on the edge of the landing platform. The unfortunate bird takes a few shaky steps before keeling over on to its back, its splayed legs pointing stiffly at the sky.</p>
- <p>The guard walks over to the bird and with the toe of his boot, casually flicks it over the edge of the platform. He watches as it spirals down towards the palace gardens far below, unaware that he has only just escaped a similar fate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect385">
- <meta><title>385</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The searing flash of blue flame scorches your arm and face. You are thrown across the platform by the blast, and your body is peppered with shards of black crystal. Lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you are still alive after this calamity, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect386">
- <meta><title>386</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few paces beyond the marketplace, a small alley heads off to the left. At the end you see a house with a bright blue door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you have the Kai Discipline of Tracking, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to enter the alley and knock at the door, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect387">
- <meta><title>387</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart sinks; there are no other stairs down from the platform&emdash;you are trapped. Before you can think of a plan, the Drakkarim burst from the arch and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The only way you can evade combat is by leaping from the tower to the gardens below, a drop of over one hundred feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to jump, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect388">
- <meta><title>388</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the avenue as it twists and turns through the Armourer's Quarter of Ikaresh. A street vendor is selling a selection of swords and daggers that catch your eye; they are beautifully crafted, well-balanced and very sharp. A wooden sign displays his prices:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Swords&emdash;5 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Daggers&emdash;3 Gold Crowns each</li>
- <li>Broadswords&emdash;9 Gold Crowns each</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above weapons if you wish. Continuing along the avenue, you pass a meat market where carcasses of oxen are hung out in the open. You are not surprised to see the Ikareshi of this quarter walking about the streets with pieces of cotton stuffed into their nostrils (suspended by a thread around their necks), for the smell is dreadful.</p>
- <p>Eventually you arrive at a fork, but there are no signs to indicate where the new streets lead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to take the left street, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect367">If you wish to take the right street, <link-text>turn to 367</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect389">
- <meta><title>389</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leap from the gangplank on to landing platform, the sentry wheels round to confront you. He snatches up his spear in preparation for attack. He now stands between you and the Itikar's pen; combat is unavoidable.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Sentry</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you win the combat and wish to search the sentry's body, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to ignore the body and hurry into the Itikar's pen, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect390">
- <meta><title>390</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap at the staggering form of Darklord Haakon, your weapon poised to strike a killing blow. However, as your arm sweeps down, a spiked fist lashes out; blood spurts from your wrist, your fingers go numb and your weapon falls from your hand. Haakon strikes again, catching you in the chest with a blow that pitches you backwards across the chamber.</p>
- <p>You struggle to stand but the battle is over: Haakon has retrieved the glowing stone. The last thing you see before you are consumed by searing blue flame is the evil and triumphant grimace of the Darklord.</p>
- <choice>Your life and hopes of Sommerlund end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect391">
- <meta><title>391</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you follow the track deeper into the arboretum, high-pitch shrieks echo above the ceiling of creepers and low branches. The air is humid as a jungle. You press on but the going is difficult; the soft, sticky, rotting humus clings to your boots like river clay.</p>
- <p>A sudden movement on the path ahead makes you dive for cover; a handful of Drakkarim are coming this way, led by a figure dressed in red.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you have reached the Kai rank of Warmarn or higher, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you not yet reached this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect392">
- <meta><title>392</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ale is thick and creamy, with a taste like malted apples. You lower the half-empty tankard and wipe away the froth from your lips with your sleeve.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is less than 15, deduct 2 from this number. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point total is above 25, add 2 to this number. If you have reached the Kai rank of Savant add 3 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect364">If your total score is now below 7, <link-text>turn to 364</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If your total score is now 7 or above, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect393">
- <meta><title>393</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run headlong through the foliage, the piercing scream of the Vordak tearing at your mind. Unless you possess the Kai Discipline of Mindshield, lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Suddenly, a Drakkar looms out of the trees ahead, his black broadsword held high above his masked face, ready to strike a deadly blow.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of combat due to the surprise of the Drakkar's attack. You can evade combat after three rounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect394">
- <meta><title>394</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar shrieks a cry of horror and lets the broadsword slip from his fingers. He claws at his death-mask, fumbling for the latch which opens the black steel visor. As it clicks open, a mass of writhing insects tumble from the helmet. The Drakkar screams like a madman as the creatures slither and crawl around inside his armour, stinging and biting his skin. In his crazed panic, he topples over the parapet and falls to his doom thousands of feet below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect395">
- <meta><title>395</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As far as the eye can see, a long, straight, sandstone corridor slopes away into the distance. Torches crackle and splutter on the walls, illuminating the pictograms engraved in the yellow stone.</p>
- <p>At regular intervals, rough-edged slabs protrude into the main corridor. You stop to take a close look at one of these slabs and the floor beneath it and come to a frightening conclusion. They are obviously traps, no doubt set off by the Giaks when they cleared this corridor of sand. Rather than instructing the Giaks to avoid them, the Darklords must have deliberately used their slaves to set them off. Once the traps had been sprung, the squashed bodies were cleared away and the slabs chiselled through to the next section. Pit traps in the floors seem to have been neutralized in the same way. Set off by luckless Giaks, they would have been filled in with the dead bodies and levelled off with sand. The thought of this heartless barbarity fills you with revulsion.</p>
- <p>Just over a mile along the corridor, you eventually arrive at large stone door. The stone surround bears evidence of chisel-work, but the door itself is rock solid.</p>
- <p>You notice a faint beam of light descending from a hole in the ceiling. It creates a small circular pool of light, a little to one side of a similar hole in the floor. In the wall near to the door there is a triangular indentation, no larger than a Gold Crown.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you possess a Prism, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you possess a Blue Stone Triangle, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you have neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect396">
- <meta><title>396</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the cool marble tower, two flights of spiral stairs meet at a landing. You detect the sound of distant running feet, gradually growing louder. It is coming from one of the spiral staircases, but which one? Suddenly, a band of Drakkarim warriors appear; they are crossing the bridge that leads to the tower. You must escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you have the Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to ascend the spiral stairs, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect360">If you wish to descend the spirals stairs, <link-text>turn to 360</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect397">
- <meta><title>397</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Greedily, she snatches the coin from her begging bowl and tests it between her blackened teeth. Once satisfied the coin is real, she nods her head and waits for your questions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to ask her if she is Soushilla, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to ask her if she knows where Tipasa the Wanderer can be found, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect398">
- <meta><title>398</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard raises a hand to the back of his neck and removes the tiny dart, but before he realizes what has happened, he keels over unconscious, spread-eagled on the landing platform.</p>
- <p>You can hear the clatter of running feet echoing across the palace roof: the Drakkarim have arrived. You must act quickly if you are to avoid them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to search the body of the sleeping guard, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to ignore the guard and rush into the Itikar pen, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect399">
- <meta><title>399</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon lowers his staff, the trace of a wry smile on his pain-racked face. <quote>Alas I was too slow to protect myself, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, glancing at his arm. You kneel at his side and free the spear that pins him to the floor. The wound is serious; hastily you staunch the bleeding with strips of cloth torn from his dark blue robes. You recognize the robes, for they are the attire of a Journeymaster. It seems that young Banedon has achieved distinction among his brother magicians since last you met.</p>
- <p><quote>It appears that we are fated to meet in their company,</quote> he says, still watching the Kraan-riders anxiously. <quote>Help me to my feet, we must escape before they drag us from the sky.</quote></p>
- <p>You support the magician as he grasps the ship's helm&emdash;a radiant crystal sphere with hundreds of glowing facets set on a slim silver rod. No sooner has his hand closed around the crystal than there is a tremendous explosion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect400">
- <meta><title>400</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the floor where Darklord Haakon fell, but there are no signs of his body. The atmosphere is strangely calm and peaceful as if a great and evil shadow has been lifted.</p>
- <p>You turn and walk to the throne where Haakon sat, waiting for you to appear. Beyond it lies a portal, an ancient inscription carved deep into the blood-red stone. Below the carving is set the impression of a human hand. Instinct and intuition guide your hand to the door; the carving fits around it like a glove.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Set on a pedestal, the book lies open, its secrets revealed to your eyes alone</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill24.gif" width="386" height="572" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill24.pdf" width="386" height="572" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Silently the portal slides back to reveal your destiny&emdash;the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>. Set on a pedestal, the book lies open, its secrets revealed to your eyes alone. As you lift the sacred book, the very air throbs with the vibration of the force locked within its sun-gold cover. With a pounding heart you close the book and hurry from the chamber.</p>
- <p>By the time you reach the foothills of the Koneshi, Banedon has successfully completed his mission; he and Tipasa are waiting for you. As they see you appear, clutching the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite>, they can barely contain their excitement.</p>
- <p><quote>This night of triumph,</quote> says Banedon, jubilantly, <quote>will herald a new dawn of hope for Sommerlund. The Kai are reborn.</quote></p>
- <p>The quest is now over. You have found the <cite>Book of the Magnakai</cite> and freed Magnamund from the shadow of Darklord Haakon. But for you, Kai Master Lone Wolf, the story has only just begun.</p>
- <p>Your destiny lies long the path of the Grand Masters. To learn their secrets and attempt the first exciting quest of the Magnakai, begin your journey with Book 6 of the Lone Wolf series entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.06tkot;">The Kingdoms of Terror</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Empire of Vassagonia</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="774" height="628" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="774" height="628" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="385" height="278" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>mid-winter</quote> with <quote>midwinter</quote>, <quote>king's</quote> with <quote>King's</quote>, and all occurrences of <quote>king</quote> with <quote>King</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote> that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote> and <quote> on the last page of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>Combat Skill, Endurance Points</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Discipline section</quote> with <quote>Kai Disciplines section</quote>. Replaced all occurences of <quote>discipline(s)</quote> with <quote>Discipline(s)</quote>. Set the Weapons list in initial capital letters instead of all capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote> (see the front of this book)</quote>. Capitalized the items in the list rather than setting them in all capitals. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Safe Keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="levels">Levels of Kai Training</a>) Replaced <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Kai Wisdom</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>LONE WOLF</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>you must&emdash;</quote> with <quote>you must&ellips;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>fades; and</quote> with <quote>fades, and</quote>, <quote>diseases, or</quote> with <quote>diseases or</quote>, and <quote>entered, and</quote> with <quote>entered and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>half-way</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>) Replaced <quote>bowstring and</quote> with <quote>bowstring, and</quote>, <quote>range and</quote> with <quote>range, and</quote>, and <quote>surrounded and</quote> with <quote>surrounded, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Replaced <quote>efforts and</quote> with <quote>efforts, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>wire and</quote> with <quote>wire, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>appalling, and</quote> with <quote>appalling; and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>subside but</quote> with <quote>subside, but</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>suspiciously, but</quote> with <quote>suspiciously but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>reins, and</quote> with <quote>reins and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>market-place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced <quote>free but</quote> with <quote>free, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>oil</quote> with <quote>Oil</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>) Replaced <quote>joint and</quote> with <quote>joint, and</quote>, <quote>water, and</quote> with <quote>water and</quote>, and <quote>bar and</quote> with <quote>bar, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>wall, and</quote> with <quote>wall and</quote>, <quote>action, when</quote> with <quote>action when (awkward)</quote>, and <quote>narrow and</quote> with <quote>narrow, and</quote>. Moved the Guardian choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>prayer and</quote> with <quote>prayer, and</quote> and <quote>end and</quote> with <quote>end, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced <quote>corroded but</quote> with <quote>corroded, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>disgusting and</quote> with <quote>disgusting, and</quote>, <quote>six, silver-handled</quote> with <quote>six silver-handled</quote>, and <quote>tunic, and</quote> with <quote>tunic and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>Half-way</quote> with <quote>Halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>retch, and</quote> with <quote>retch and</quote> and <quote>tunnel and</quote> with <quote>tunnel, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect44">44</a>) Replaced <quote>leatherbound</quote> with <quote>leather-bound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>) Replaced <quote>climb; and</quote> with <quote>climb, and</quote>, and <quote>troops you</quote> with <quote>troops, you (awkward)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>pain but</quote> with <quote>pain, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>shot and</quote> with <quote>shot, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>unlocked and</quote> with <quote>unlocked, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) Replaced <quote>guard, and</quote> with <quote>guard and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>deep dark</quote> with <quote>deep, dark</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Replaced <quote>crisscrossed</quote> with <quote>criss-crossed</quote>, <quote>free, and</quote> with <quote>free and</quote>, and <quote>greedily, and</quote> with <quote>greedily and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>something and</quote> with <quote>something, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>) Moved the Camouflage/Hunting choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>courage but</quote> with <quote>courage, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>settling; and</quote> with <quote>settling, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>Zakhans, and</quote> with <quote>Zakhans and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>overturned and</quote> with <quote>overturned, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) Replaced <quote>equipment, and</quote> with <quote>equipment and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>advice, and</quote> with <quote>advice and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>water keeping</quote> with <quote>water, keeping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>parched and</quote> with <quote>parched, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>) Replaced <quote>swim but</quote> with <quote>swim, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>rib-cage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>) Replaced <quote>booby-trapped but</quote> with <quote>booby-trapped, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-darkness and</quote> with <quote>semi-darkness, and</quote> and <quote>leatherbound</quote> with <quote>leather-bound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) Replaced <quote>Potion Alether</quote> with <quote>Potion of Alether</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Replaced <quote>body, and</quote> with <quote>body and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>combat, and</quote> with <quote>combat and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Replaced <quote>guard's</quote> with <quote>guards'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>market-place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>strike and</quote> with <quote>strike, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Moved the Animal Kinship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Moved the Healing choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Replaced <quote>sensitive and</quote> with <quote>sensitive, and</quote> and <quote>corroded and</quote> with <quote>corroded, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Replaced <quote>houses all</quote> with <quote>houses, all</quote> and <quote>first floor</quote> with <quote>first-floor</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>swell and</quote> with <quote>swell, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>&thinspace;' Break</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'Break</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>hall and</quote> with <quote>hall, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>slippery and</quote> with <quote>slippery, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Moved the Camouflage/Hunting choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Moved the Rope choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>reenter</quote> with <quote>re-enter</quote> and <quote>market-place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>) Replaced <quote>view and</quote> with <quote>view, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>may, or</quote> with <quote>may or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>corridor, and</quote> with <quote>corridor and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>distance and</quote> with <quote>distance, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>strange luxuriant purple</quote> with <quote>strange, luxuriant, purple</quote>. Moved the Tracking/Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>grass, and</quote> with <quote>grass and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>door and</quote> with <quote>door, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>skin, that</quote> with <quote>skin that</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>leatherbound</quote> with <quote>leather-bound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>strange jelly-like</quote> with <quote>strange, jelly-like</quote> and <quote>sides and</quote> with <quote>sides, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>chain-reaction</quote> with <quote>chain reaction</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>away and</quote> with <quote>away, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>shut and</quote> with <quote>shut, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>place and</quote> with <quote>place, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Replaced <quote>stone, and</quote> with <quote>stone and</quote>, <quote>pass; but</quote> with <quote>pass, but</quote>, and <quote>sunset and</quote> with <quote>sunset, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>water! <quote>There he is.</quote></quote> with <quote>water: <quote>There he is!</quote></quote>. Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>gallery and</quote> with <quote>gallery, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>entrance, but</quote> with <quote>entrance but</quote> and <quote>combat, and</quote> with <quote>combat and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Replaced <quote>construction, and</quote> with <quote>construction and</quote> and <quote>Palace, that</quote> with <quote>Palace that</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Replaced <quote>lungs; and</quote> with <quote>lungs, and</quote> and <quote>horrors for</quote> with <quote>horrors, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>) Replaced <quote>you, and</quote> with <quote>you and</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>door, and</quote> with <quote>door and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) Replaced <quote>sommersaults</quote> with <quote>somersaults</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>Maouk who</quote> with <quote>Maouk, who</quote> and <quote>shadows, a dart</quote> with <quote>shadows&emdash;a dart</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect178">178</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>half-way</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>legs tearing</quote> with <quote>legs, tearing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Replaced <quote>long curved</quote> with <quote>long, curved</quote> and <quote>claws, its</quote> with <quote>claws&emdash;its</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>falls, but</quote> with <quote>falls but</quote> and <quote>indifference, and</quote> with <quote>indifference and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>bodies and</quote> with <quote>bodies, and</quote> and <quote>chest as</quote> with <quote>chest are as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>7-9</quote> with <quote>7-12</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>gold, but</quote> with <quote>gold but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>gold, and</quote> with <quote>gold and</quote> and <quote>street, and</quote> with <quote>street and</quote>. Replaced all occurences of <quote>market-place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>) Replaced <quote>Vordak but</quote> with <quote>Vordak, but</quote> and <quote>blood, and</quote> with <quote>blood and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>strength, and</quote> with <quote>strength and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) Replaced <quote>furnished and</quote> with <quote>furnished, and</quote>, <quote>little there is either</quote> with <quote>little is there is either</quote> and <quote>leatherbound</quote> with <quote>leather-bound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Replaced <quote>Crowns, and</quote> with <quote>Crowns and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>yellow and</quote> with <quote>yellow, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>Drakkarim, and</quote> with <quote>Drakkarim and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>wine, and</quote> with <quote>wine and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Replaced <quote>town, and</quote> with <quote>town and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>ring, and</quote> with <quote>ring and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>) Replaced <quote>tongues and</quote> with <quote>tongues, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>) Replaced <quote>razor sharp</quote> with <quote>razor-sharp</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>you, by</quote> with <quote>you by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>eyes and</quote> with <quote>eyes, and</quote>, <quote>knees and</quote> with <quote>knees, and</quote> and <quote>move but</quote> with <quote>move, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233">233</a>) Replaced <quote>lit but</quote> with <quote>lit, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>explore, and</quote> with <quote>explore and</quote> and <quote>face and</quote> with <quote>face, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a id="err236" idref="sect236">236</a>) Deleted the second sentence <quote>When you strike, the guard is still on his knees, picking up his scattered gold.</quote> (See the <a idref="err295">erratum for section 295</a>.)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect237">237</a>) Replaced <quote>smells, and after</quote> with <quote>smells and, after</quote>. Replaced <quote>Jala</quote> with <quote>jala</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect238">238</a>) Replaced <quote>crack and</quote> with <quote>crack, and</quote> and <quote>hand, and</quote> with <quote>hand and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect240">240</a>) Replaced <quote>one but, once</quote> with <quote>one, but once</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>high, and</quote> with <quote>high and</quote> and <quote>pain and</quote> with <quote>pain, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>sky but</quote> with <quote>sky, but</quote> and <quote>Main but</quote> with <quote>Main, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>small beady</quote> with <quote>small, beady</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>blood and</quote> with <quote>blood, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">253</a>) Replaced <quote>subsides; but</quote> with <quote>subsides, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced <quote>battle-jerkins, pull</quote> with <quote>battle-jerkins pull</quote> and <quote>gratitude for</quote> with <quote>gratitude, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced <quote>noise, and</quote> with <quote>noise and</quote>, <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>, and <quote>terror but</quote> with <quote>terror, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Replaced <quote>below, but</quote> with <quote>below but</quote>, <quote>blood, and</quote> with <quote>blood and</quote> and <quote>stiffen and</quote> with <quote>stiffen, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect274">274</a>) Replaced <quote>market place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>) Replaced <quote>forward and</quote> with <quote>forward, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>) Replaced <quote>face sending</quote> with <quote>face, sending</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote>However for</quote> with <quote>However, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>) Replaced <quote>hand, and</quote> with <quote>hand and</quote> and <quote>muzzle-first</quote> with <quote>muzzle first</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>surface and</quote> with <quote>surface, and</quote> and <quote>gutteral</quote> with <quote>guttural</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a id="err295" idref="sect295">295</a>) Added the sentences, <quote>When you strike, the guard is still on his knees, picking up his scattered gold. Your attack is silent and deadly.</quote> These are copied from 236. <quote>Turn to 236</quote> is now replaced with <quote>If you wish to search the guard's body, turn to 207. If you decide to ignore the body, hurry into the Itikar's pen and turn to 224.</quote> This retains the text for the Mind Over Matter option, while fixing the out-of-place wording if you never untied the guard's money pouch. (See also the <a idref="err236">errata for sections 236</a>, <a idref="err357">357</a>, and <a idref="err389">389</a>.) Perhaps Joe Dever originally intended for there to be a Random Number pick even when you used Mind Over Matter and then made Mind Over Matter an automatic victory against the sentry but he seems to have forgotten to change the wording for the Random Number pick.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>Zakhan, others</quote> with <quote>Zakhan. Others</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>alive, and</quote> with <quote>alive and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>lit but</quote> with <quote>lit, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>boomsails</quote> with <quote>boom-sails</quote> and <quote>bo'sun</quote> with <quote>Bo'sun</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Replaced <quote>strong, that</quote> with <quote>strong that</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Replaced <quote>behind, and</quote> with <quote>behind and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>out but</quote> with <quote>out, but</quote> and <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>half-way</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>obey, and</quote> with <quote>obey and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>) Replaced <quote>boomsail</quote> with <quote>boom-sail</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>surprise, their weapons</quote> with <quote>surprise; their weapons</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>blood but</quote> with <quote>blood, but</quote> and <quote>back-breaking</quote> with <quote>backbreaking</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>Drakkarim but</quote> with <quote>Drakkarim, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>market-place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>combat and</quote> with <quote>combat, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>) Removed <quote> at the front of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>half-way</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>) Replaced <quote>flash and</quote> with <quote>flash, and</quote> and <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>. Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>craft, is</quote> with <quote>craft is</quote> and <quote>forward and</quote> with <quote>forward, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>half-way</quote> and <quote>Jala</quote> with <quote>jala</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>) Replaced <quote>behind you but</quote> with <quote>behind you, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>yellow and</quote> with <quote>yellow, and</quote> and <quote>herb, and</quote> with <quote>herb and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>hand, and</quote> with <quote>hand and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced <quote>below but</quote> with <quote>below, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect351">351</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circle</quote> with <quote>semicircle</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect352">352</a>) Replaced <quote>place, and</quote> with <quote>place and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect353">353</a>) Replaced <quote>Cryptspawn</quote> with <quote>Crypt Spawn</quote> and <quote>fire but</quote> with <quote>fire, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect354">354</a>) Replaced <quote>deck but</quote> with <quote>deck, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a id="err357" idref="sect357">357</a>) Deleted the words <quote>forgets about his scattered gold and</quote> from the third sentence. (See the <a idref="err295">erratum for section 295</a>.) Replaced <quote>combat, and</quote> with <quote>combat and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect361">361</a>) Replaced <quote>boomsail</quote> with <quote>boom-sail</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect362">362</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Jala</quote> with <quote>jala</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect366">366</a>) Replaced <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote> and <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect370">370</a>) Replaced <quote>stranger, and</quote> with <quote>stranger and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect372">372</a>) Replaced <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect374">374</a>) Replaced <quote>happening, you</quote> with <quote>happening; you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect375">375</a>) Replaced <quote>blow, and</quote> with <quote>blow and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect380">380</a>) Replaced <quote>helm but</quote> with <quote>helm, but</quote> and <quote>bo'sun</quote> with <quote>Bo'sun</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect382">382</a>) Replaced the choice at the end of this section to match those in <a idref="sect288">Section 288</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect385">385</a>) Replaced <quote>seering</quote> with <quote>searing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a id="err389" idref="sect389">389</a>) Deleted the words <quote>forgets about his gold and</quote> from the second sentence. (See the <a idref="err295">erratum for section 295</a>.) Replaced <quote>pen, combat</quote> with <quote>pen; combat</quote> and <quote>combat, and</quote> with <quote>combat and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect386">386</a>) Moved the Tracking choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect390">390</a>) Replaced <quote>flame, is</quote> with <quote>flame is</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect392">392</a>) Replaced the last choice to read <quote>7 or above</quote> instead of <quote>above 7</quote> in order to avoid the ambiguous situation of having picked 7.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect394">394</a>) Replaced <quote>madman, as</quote> with <quote>madman as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect395">395</a>) Replaced <quote>it, and</quote> with <quote>it and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect396">396</a>) Moved the Sixth Sense choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds, you must still win before turning to <a idref="sect180">Section 180</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Make sure you note your possessions elsewhere in case you should find them later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) It may be reasonable to restore half the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose in this combat if you win (note what happens if you lose).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Note that you do not need any of your own Torches to use the Tinderbox in this case.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) The Jewelled Mace is a weapon-like Special Item.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) You may record the Jakan on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Weapon. Although it may not use it currently, it may be of use to you in the future.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. If you choose the wrong section, then turn to <a idref="sect156">Section 156</a> as indicated above. You do not get a second guess.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) This section is the correct answer for the Cloeasian combination lock from <a idref="sect58">Section 58</a></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> all Weapons, Special Items, Gold Crowns, and your Backpack but note them elsewhere in case you should find them later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) If the fight lasts longer than 4 rounds, you must still win before turning to <a idref="sect180">Section 180</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) It may be reasonable to restore half the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose if you win the combat (note what happens if you lose).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Though you may purchase any of the above, it is likely that you are limited to one of each potion.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) If the fight lasts longer than 3 rounds, you must still win before turning to <a idref="sect46">Section 46</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> all Weapons, Special Items, Gold Crowns, and your Backpack but note them elsewhere, in case you should find them later.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Turn to <a idref="sect336">Section 336</a> if you have ever received the Crystal Star Pendant, regardless of whether or not you possess it now.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) You may only use Graveweed in its Tincture form, in this case (you may not use a concentrated potion if you have one).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Turn to <a idref="sect399">Section 399</a> if you have ever received the Crystal Star Pendant, regardless of whether or not you possess it now.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Since you are in the middle of a wasteland, you may not use Hunting to get out of the Meal requirement here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>) To solve this puzzle you will need to use the <a idref="map">Map of the Empire of Vassagonia</a> with the code instructions in mind before coming back to this section. The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. If you do not see this footnote at the bottom, you have chosen the wrong section. Come back to this section, reconsider the code and make your selection again, repeating the process until you turn to the correct section. There is no alternate way to proceed through the adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Erase the Sommerswerd from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may restore it to your inventory once the adventure is over.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect373">373</a>) This section is the correct answer to the code in <a idref="sect331">Section 331</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect382">382</a>) Turn to <a idref="sect399">Section 399</a> if you have ever received the Crystal Star Pendant, regardless of whether or not you possess it now.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect12">Section 12</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect20">Section 20</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect54">Section 54</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect64">Section 64</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect90">Section 90</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect106">Section 106</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect123">Section 123</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect135">Section 135</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect143">Section 143</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect162">Section 162</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect177">Section 177</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect190">Section 190</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect216">Section 216</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect223">Section 223</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect253">Section 253</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect264">Section 264</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect285">Section 285</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect306">Section 306</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect323">Section 323</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect343">Section 343</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XXI (<a idref="sect353">Section 353</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XXII (<a idref="sect375">Section 375</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XXIII (<a idref="sect380">Section 380</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XXIV (<a idref="sect400">Section 400</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Empire of Vassagonia</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
-
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a></li>
- <li><a idref="discplnz">Kai Disciplines</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect27">Section 27</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect44">Section 44</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect83">Section 83</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect88">Section 88</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect99">Section 99</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect121">Section 121</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect241">Section 241</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect247">Section 247</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect320">Section 320</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
-</section>
-</gamebook>
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-<!--
-
-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
-Adding Paul Haskell as an Illustration Transcriptionist
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.7 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.6 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/12/04 19:52:21 jblake
-XML cleanup. Still needs editorial changes.
-
-Revision 1.4 2002/11/12 18:49:50 jblake
-Fix of interbook links.
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/11/08 04:41:27 jblake
-Fixed major validity errors. They have my handwriting all over them. ;)
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/16 19:35:29 jblake
-Corrected some whitespace introduced by an XML processor and restored
-some of my preferred XML formatting.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:19:03 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>The Kingdoms of Terror</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br/>Illustrated by Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Gary Chalk</strong>, the illustrator of the early Lone Wolf series, was born in 1952, grew up in Hertfordshire, England. Being interested in history, he began playing war games at the age of fifteen. When he graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in design, Gary spent three years training in a studio before becoming a teacher in art and design.</p>
- <p>Gary was working as a children's book illustrator when he became involved in adventure gaming, an interest which eventually led to the creation of several successful games. He is the inventor/illustrator of some of Britain's biggest-selling fantasy games including Cry Havoc, Starship Captain and Battlecars (co-designed with Ian Livingstone). He is also known for his work on the very successful game, Talisman.</p>
- <p>Gary was working at Games Workshop when Joe Dever asked him to illustrate some of his manuscript of Flight from the Dark. The two teamed up after that and, they continued to work together until the eighth book in the series, <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>.</p>
- <p>Gary has also drawn the illustrations in <cite>Redwall</cite> and related books, <cite>The Prince of Shadows</cite> gamebook series, and several books which he also authored. Gary continues to enjoy war gaming and works as an illustrator and model maker. He maintains a <a href="&link.gary.chalk.website;">website</a> with examples of his work.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Kai Master Lone Wolf&emdash;last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund, sole survivor of a massacre by the Darklords of Helgedad. You discovered the lost Sommlending treasure, <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, containing the wisdom and Disciplines of the Kai lords recorded in the time of Sun Eagle, the first Kai Grand Master. With Magnakai Disciplines, you have sworn to restore the Kai to their former glory and so ensure the security of your land against the Darklords.</p>
- <p>And so, guided by the words of your ancient mentor, Sun Eagle, and with the shadow of the Darklords ever present, you set out on the quest for the Lorestone of Varetta, unaware of the wonders and the horrors that await you in the Stornlands.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1985 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1985 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1985 Gary Chalk.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta/>
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title"/>
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">To Philippa and Alison</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate"/>
- <link class="next" idref="tssf"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote>
- <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta>
- <title>Credits</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Kevin Garrett</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Paul Haskell<br/>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Michael Hahn (map)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne (sections 1&endash;35 and 281&endash;350)<br />Matthew Reynolds (front matter, sections 71&endash;280)<br />Tony Wrigley (36&endash;70)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br/>Matthew Reynolds<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg"/>
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Kai Master Lone Wolf&emdash;last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and the sole survivor of a massacre that destroyed your warrior kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies, the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Three years have passed since your triumph over the Darklord Haakon at the Tomb of the Majhan, and for the northern realm of Sommerlund, these have been three years of peace and prosperity. Since Haakon's defeat, the power of the Darklords has waned. Rumours abound that a civil war rages in Helgedad, as the lesser Darklords fight for power and dominion over the city. However, it is a widely held belief in Sommerlund that your discovery of the lost Sommlending treasure, <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, is the real reason for their power struggle.</p>
- <p><cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite> is legendary in Sommerlund. With the wisdom of the Magnakai, Sun Eagle, the first Kai Grand Master, instilled the disciplines into the warriors of Sommerlund that were to protect your land from devastation at the hands of the Darklords. <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite> was lost hundreds of years ago, but its wisdom was kept alive, handed down through generations of Kai so that they too could share the strength to resist their eternal enemies.</p>
- <p>When you discovered <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you gave a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory and so ensure the security of your land in the years to come. You returned to your homeland and, in the seclusion of your monastery in the hills, set about the study of the Magnakai Disciplines. It was an exacting task&emdash;a trial of physical strength and mental fortitude. The seasons came and went, but you were unaware of the passage of time, lost in your quest for the knowledge and the skills of your warrior kin. Three years of determined study pass, revealing the secrets of three of the Magnakai Disciplines. However, the others cannot be learnt by study alone, and in order to fulfil your pledge to restore the Kai, you must complete the quest first made by Sun Eagle over a thousand years ago. When he had finally completed his quest, he recorded all his experiences in <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, but the script has faded with the passing years and now few words remain to guide you.</p>
- <p><quote>Seek and find the Lorestone of Varetta, for this alone holds the power and the wisdom&ellips;</quote> are the few words you can still decipher of the Grand Master's chronicle.</p>
- <p>Although the verse is brief you are not without hope, for you recognize the name Varetta. It is one of the oldest cities of Magnamund, lying in the Stornlands beyond the Maakengorge, far to the south of Sommerlund. You realize that you must set out upon the quest without delay, for the war in Helgedad will not last indefinitely, and the Darklords swore long ago to conquer your country and destroy your people. As soon as their civil strife is resolved, the victorious lords of evil will turn on Sommerlund and summon the creatures of the Dark Realm to thwart your quest. You must therefore act quickly and with secrecy, for your life and the future of Sommerlund depends on your success.</p>
- <p>And so, guided by the words of your ancient mentor and with the shadow of the Darklords ever present, you set out on the quest for the Lorestone of Varetta, unaware of the wonders and the horrors that await you in the Stornlands.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf"/>
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, Books 1&endash;5, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 6. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta>
- <title>Weaponmastery</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278"/>
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with three weapons does not mean that you begin the adventure carrying any of them. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons during your adventure. For every Lone Wolf book that you complete in the Magnakai series, you may add an additional weapon to your list.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta>
- <title>Animal Control</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta>
- <title>Curing</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta>
- <title>Invisibility</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta>
- <title>Huntmastery</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta>
- <title>Pathsmanship</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta>
- <title>Psi-surge</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but −2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta>
- <title>Psi-screen</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta>
- <title>Nexus</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta>
- <title>Divination</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 6 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.07cd;">Book 7</a>. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, which is called <cite><a href="&link.07cd;">Castle Death</a></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Sommerlund on your quest for the Lorestone of Varetta, you equip yourself with a <a idref="map">map of the Stornlands</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed books 1&endash;5 of the Lone Wolf adventures in the earlier series, you may add this sum to the total of any Crowns you already possess. You can only carry a maximum of fifty Crowns, but any over this number can be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember you can only carry two weapons and eight Backpack Items, maximum.</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="laumspur.gif" width="156" height="66"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="laumspur.pdf" width="156" height="66"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Warhammer (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="311" height="77"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="311" height="77"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>4 Special Rations (Meals) Each of these counts as one Meal, and each takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="meals.gif" width="156" height="39"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="meals.pdf" width="156" height="39"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Padded Leather Waistcoat (Special Item) This adds 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="plw.gif" width="152" height="102"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="plw.pdf" width="152" height="102"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="156" height="39"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="156" height="39"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Dagger (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Tinderbox (Backpack Items)</p></li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Carry Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Warhammer&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Special Rations&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Padded Leather Waistcoat&emdash;worn on the body.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Tinderbox&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Axe&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta>
- <title>How Much Can You Carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd><p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p></dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Sommerlund and the Stornlands is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Whenever you kill an enemy and search the body, you may take any Gold Crowns that you find and put them in your Belt Pouch. (Remember the pouch can carry a maximum of fifty Gold Crowns.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt"/>
- <link class="next" idref="levels"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as −3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels"/>
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl"/>
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that each of your skills will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Divination when you reach the Magnakai rank of Scion-kai, you will be able to <quote>Spirit Walk</quote> and leave your body in a state of suspended animation as you explore your immediate surroundings unhindered by physical limitations.</p>
- <p>The nature of these additional improvements and how they affect your Magnakai Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc"/>
- <link class="next" idref="sect1"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quest for the Lorestone of Varetta will be fraught with danger, for the lands that border upon the River Storn are wild and turbulent nations, constantly warring with one another. Use the <a idref="map">map</a> to help you during your adventure and make notes as you progress through the story, for they will be of great help in this and future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will help you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures, and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice can enable any player to complete the quest no matter how weak his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.</p>
- <p>May the spirit of Sun Eagle guide you on the path of the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>Good Luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta>
- <title>Numbered Sections</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta>
- <title>1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The courtyard of the Kai monastery is strangely silent the morning you begin the quest. A blanket of frost sparkles on the battlements and the air is crisp and clear as you guide your horse down the steep hill track that disappears into the Fryelund forest. It is only a little later when you look back to see the tall grey towers of your stronghold silhouetted against the sky. You bid a silent farewell before entering the densely packed trees. You do not look back again.</p>
- <p>The long ride south is not without incident. On Raider's Road, the highway between the capital and the province of Ruanon, you are confronted by a ragged outlaw band. They demand gold but instead receive a harsh lesson in the powers of a Kai Master. You fight them and they flee in confusion, leaving three of their number dead on the highway. After this encounter, you are given a wide berth by all the other unsavoury characters of this bleak and desolate region.</p>
- <p>In Ruanon, you are greeted with a hero's welcome by the lord of the land, Baron Vanalund. He and his people will never forget the debt they owe you, for it was your courage that once saved them from destruction at the hands of an evil renegade warlord. You are made so welcome by the Ruanese that your quest is in danger of being forgotten in the endless round of banquets and celebrations held in your honour. However, you cannot neglect your duty, and the time soon comes for you to leave the mining town and venture south once more.</p>
- <p>Long ago, the highway from Ruanon to Quarlen was torn in two by a terrible earthquake that scarred the land for hundreds of miles. This deep crevasse became known as the Maakengorge&emdash;the chasm of doom&emdash;for its fathomless depths are cursed with a dreadful legacy. It was here, during the Age of the Black Moon, that King Ulnar killed the mightiest of the Darklords&emdash;Lord Vashna, whose body, along with the bodies of all his followers, was cast down into its bottomless reach. The legends say that his death-cry will echo through the gorge until he rises again to wreak his vengeance on Sommerlund and the House of Ulnar.</p>
- <p>You are eager to avoid the chasm of doom and the long detour to the free city-state of Casiorn is a far better prospect than a visit to the ghost-city of Maaken. Gradually, the fertile plain of southern Ruanon gives way to the sparse vegetation on the borders of the Dry Main. There, like a jewel rising out of the desert, lies the city-state of Casiorn. Your stay in the City of Merchants is a brief but profitable one; a piece of luck helped by your Kai skills gives a profitable win at the gambling house of the Silver Sage. With the gold you win you replenish your supplies and purchase a fresh mount for your ride to Quarlen.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="222" height="88" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="222" height="88" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A week later, you arrive safely at the outskirts of Quarlen and, in the evening twilight, find yourself gazing upon the fortified wall that surrounds this river town. To reach Varetta you must cross the river&emdash;and only here, at Quarlen, is there a bridge that spans the fast-flowing waters of the Quarl. The highway divides as it approaches the town wall, for there are two gates that provide access to its east side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to approach the north gate, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to approach the south gate, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta>
- <title>2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect2-1-foot" idref="sect2-1">
- <p>Remember that you are looking at individual jars and are thus limited to one of each potion (if you can afford to buy and have space to carry them).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Several of the smaller stoppered glass jars contain potions that could be of use to you on your quest. As you peer along the shelves you look carefully at their labels:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur (restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Potion of Gallowbrush (induces sleep for 1&endash;2 hours per dose)&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Rendalim's Elixir (restores 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose)&emdash;7 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Potion of Alether (increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 for the duration of one combat)&emdash;4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Graveweed Concentrate (causes death if swallowed)&emdash;4 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above potions, all of which are Backpack Items.<a id="sect2-1" idref="sect2-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to look at some of the other shops in this street, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to wait for the captain to be served, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta>
- <title>3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the top of the hill the track comes to an abrupt end at a tall circle of stones. A bundle of firewood is stacked in the centre of the circle and a Torch, wrapped in oilcloth, lies nearby. You recognize this as a signal beacon, for they are very common in Sommerlund, especially along the border with the Durncrag mountains. If you wish you may take the Torch before heading back along the track.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta>
- <title>4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you move the strands aside they suddenly begin to writhe and twist like a seething mass of snakes, coiling round your weapon and turning it back towards your hand. You release your grip and fall back in horror as your weapon is consumed in their corrosive grasp.</p>
- <p>You turn and run back towards the junction, your stomach churning as you realize how close you came to a grisly death. Erase your lost weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before choosing which channel to take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to go straight ahead, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to take the channel to your left, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta>
- <title>5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shrill cockcrow heralds the break of day. By the time you have dressed and gathered together your equipment, Cyrilus is waiting for you in the courtyard below.</p>
- <p><quote>A glorious day,</quote> he says cheerfully, pointing up at the cloudless sky with his slender oaken staff. <quote>We'll have no difficulty reaching the Halfway Inn by nightfall.</quote></p>
- <p>You bid farewell to the innkeeper and his son and urge your horses out on to the narrow street that leads to the west gatehouse. By mid-morning you are riding across gentle hills crested with yellow-leaved trees. The hilltops are shrouded with mist, but occasional rays of sunshine break through to lighten the lush green fields below. Time passes swiftly as Cyrilus recounts the histories and legends of the area. You learn that the rich and fertile kingdoms bordering the River Storn have a wild and turbulent past, swept by wars, divided by empires, split by national rivalries and the ambitions of petty princes who prey upon one another and the rest of the populace. Lyris is embroiled in war with Magador, Delden with Salony and Salony with Slovia. Battles are fought, lives are lost and the land is pillaged with grim regularity&emdash;only the mercenaries and the crows seem to prosper from the continual conflicts.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="325" height="108" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="325" height="108" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It is mid-afternoon when you catch sight of a small village on the road ahead. There are many wagons parked at the side of the highway, and a crowd has gathered in a field nearby. As you ride past, you notice a large placard nailed to one of the wagons:</p>
- <signpost>ARCHERY TOURNAMENT<br/>ENTRANCE FEE: 2 GOLD CROWNS<br/>FIRST PRIZE: THE SILVER BOW OF DUADON</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to enter the tournament, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you do not wish to or cannot afford to enter, continue on your way and <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta>
- <title>6</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Calm yourselves, my brothers. It is he&emdash;it is the Kai Lord.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly, as the startled old men regain their composure, their shocked expressions change to ones of awe and reverence.</p>
- <p><quote>I am Gwynian,</quote> says their leader. <quote>We have been expecting your arrival.</quote> He points to the charts that cover the table and to a massive telescope that is fixed to a platform in the domed ceiling.</p>
- <p><quote>The stars divine the shape of things to come&emdash;they are our advisors. We know of your quest for the Lorestone. We know that it is the true quest and we pledge our help, but there are many of our brethren who fear its power. They choose to ignore the wisdom of the stars and they have pledged themselves to a foolish and dangerous vow to keep hidden the location of the Lorestone and to kill all who seek it, for fear they would use it for their own ends.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="289" height="155" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="289" height="155" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly, his words are cut short by the beating of fists against the observatory door: your horse has been discovered.</p>
- <p><quote>Give him to us!</quote> shouts a chorus of angry voices.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, we must leave,</quote> says Gwynian, and he ushers you into a smaller room. A hidden catch is pulled, and a secret panel opens to reveal a passage. As you follow the sage and his companions into the darkness, you hear the door to the observatory splinter and break.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta>
- <title>7</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense tension and imminent danger all around you. The quiet serenity of this little hamlet is deceptive&emdash;beneath it is hidden a deadly threat to your safety. Instinctively, you unsheathe your weapon and prepare to defend yourself in case of a sudden ambush.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258"><link-text>Turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta>
- <title>8</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Chanda gasps and shudders as your final blow robs him of all his strength. He tries to curse you, but the words stick in his throat. As he fights to speak he stumbles and falls dead at your feet.</p>
- <p>You turn him over with the toe of your boot and make a quick but thorough search of his body. You discover a pouch containing 10 Gold Crowns, a Potion of Laumspur (enough to restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and a Map of Varetta. Mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may take any of these items if you wish and leave this eerie shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta>
- <title>9</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards exchange glances and nod their heads in agreement. <quote>Ten Gold Crowns will make you a welcome guest in our town, stranger,</quote> whispers the shorter of the two men, holding out his gauntleted hand in expectation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to pay the bribe, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not wish to pay so large a sum and wish to try to ride past them, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to refuse politely their offer and attempt to enter the town by the north gate, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta>
- <title>10</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A jovial man, with long strands of hair hanging down from the point of his chin, lies in a hammock suspended at the end of the gangplank. One eye pops open as you walk on to the deck and, as quick as a flash, he jumps down and produces a fistful of tickets from his breast pocket.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome aboard the Kazonara,</quote> he says excitedly, <quote>the best river boat that ever sailed the Storn.</quote> You glance back at the board and note the prices: 10 Gold Crowns to Luyen, 15 to Rhem and 20 to Eula.</p>
- <p><quote>We leave at midnight, sir, so's you best be a'boarding your horse in the hold without delay.</quote> Once you have decided which Ticket you wish to buy, pay the man and erase the Gold Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Mark the Ticket as a Special Item that you keep in your pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta>
- <title>11</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The town of Eula has been turned into a huge army encampment, its people having long since fled to the north, abandoning their homes and livestock to the gold-hungry soldiers. Soldiers from a dozen different nations rub shoulders with fighters of a less-than-human origin, united by their common greed. As you watch endless columns of soldiers marching towards the pall of black smoke rising in the south, your heart begins to sink. The city in which the Lorestone lies, Tekaro, is a city under siege, a city that can withstand the onslaught of ten thousand fighting men. As you ride across the soot-blackened fields towards the siege-works and entrenchments at the bank of the River Quarl, you curse the war that threatens to defeat your quest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The town of Eula has been turned<br/>into a huge army encampment</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="673"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="673"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta>
- <title>12</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow thuds into its right leg causing it to shriek and lose its footing. Your quick thinking has bought you enough time to unsheathe a hand weapon and attack the monster.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Yawshath</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Because the creature is now lying face down, do not deduct any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you may lose in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <p>You may evade combat at any time by escaping through the arch by which you entered the chapel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta>
- <title>13</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expertly you move through the undergrowth without making a sound until you come to the edge of a small, rocky clearing. A group of ten hooded men stand in a circle around an altar stone. Their leader, a tall thin man wearing a hideous mask of green glass, spins a golden rod around the head of a gigantic toad-like creature spreadeagled on the altar. Lightning writhes like a sparking serpent around the creature's body, and as the chanting rises in pitch, the beast's body floats upwards, hovering in mid-air a few feet above the altar.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the leader shrieks with anger and turns in your direction. He has somehow detected your presence, and you feel his blazing fury. He points the golden rod towards you, and a charge of energy snakes through the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you do not have a bow and wish to flee, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to draw your weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta>
- <title>14</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the riders appear and spread out in a semicircle to surround you. <quote>We have a debt to settle, Northlander,</quote> hisses Roark, his lips drawn back from his teeth in a contemptuous sneer. <quote>I demand payment in full!</quote></p>
- <p>Madness flashes in his glaring eyes as he removes an amulet from around his neck and holds it high in the air.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, come Tagazin, I summon thee. From the pit of eternal pain, I summon thee!</quote></p>
- <p>The skin on your arms and neck prickles with dread at the sound of Roark's terrible invocation, and you cast your eyes around you for an escape route. Only the churchyard offers a way past Roark and his men, but as you spur your horse through the stone gateway, you are suddenly frozen with terror by what you see before you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta>
- <title>15</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The town watch gasp in unison, shocked by the seemingly effortless ease with which you have defeated their sergeant. They hesitate and step back, anxious to avoid your gaze and your displeasure. Touching your horse's flanks with your spurs, you move rapidly forward towards the wagons where a handful of fresh-faced guards scatter like frightened chickens. No one dares to challenge you as you manoeuvre your horse around them and canter along the winding alley ahead.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="328" height="105" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="328" height="105" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta>
- <title>16</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the dim glow of a street lantern, you unfold the Map of Varetta and study the complicated network of roads and alleys. Mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Brass Street is located on the far side of the city, close to the west wall. Suddenly, a bell tolls, its dull clang echoing among the rooftops and towers. It is the curfew: everyone must be off the streets within one hour. You will never reach the far side of the city in an hour, so you resolve to find a tavern for the night and resume your quest at dawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta>
- <title>17</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk to the bar and arrange a room for the night. There are many rooms, each of a different standard and price. A blackboard suspended from the ceiling shows the tariffs:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>DORMITORY&emdash;2 Gold Crowns a night</li>
- <li>SINGLE ROOM (second class)&emdash;3 Gold Crowns a night</li>
- <li>SINGLE ROOM (with hot bath)&emdash;5 Gold Crowns a night</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may choose to stay in any of the above rooms, but remember to erase the relevant number of Gold Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before turning to your chosen number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you decide to stay in the dormitory, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you decide to stay in the second-class single room, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you decide to stay in the single room with a bath, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta>
- <title>18</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On a table in the centre of the tent lies a stack of bows that have been provided by the villagers. Most of them are in very poor condition but you manage to find three that are neither warped, split nor unstrung. One is a Vassagonian bow called a Jakan; another is a bone bow from Kalte; and the third is a Durenese hunting bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide to take the Jakan, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you decide to take the bone bow, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you decide to take the Durenese hunting bow, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta>
- <title>19</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Luyen, the city of flowers and wine, greets you, its towers, timbered houses and fortified perimeter walls silhouetted against the sky. It lies in the shadow of the Ceners, at a dangerous bend where the fast-flowing Storn undercuts the sheer slopes of Mount Prindar.</p>
- <p>The captain docks at the Luyen quay for provisions, and as his men busy themselves with a myriad of duties and tasks, you accompany him on a visit to the Luyen apothecary.</p>
- <p>The entrance to this famed establishment is marked by a huge stone jar, creaking on its chains. The shop is vast, and full of things that stir your curiosity. Towers of containered liquids, mountains of coarse-grained powders and forests of roots and herbs crowd the bleached wooden shelves. The captain seeks medicines of strength and healing in readiness for the battle ahead, and the herbmaster's eyes widen with delight when he reads the captain's list&emdash;they are his most expensive preparations.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to examine some of the potions that line the shelves, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to take a look at some of the other shops in this street while the herbmaster prepares the captain's order, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta>
- <title>20</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ambush catches the enemy by surprise, making them panic and fly in all directions. At such close range your arrow pierces the chainmailed chest of the rider holding Cyrilus' horse and kills him instantly. As he tumbles to the ground, you break cover, exploding through the bushes and scooping the reins from the dead man's horse. Angry shouts echo in your wake as you take off along the highway with the wizard and his horse by your side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta>
- <title>21</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of a cool grey marble corridor, you find yourself at the library door. The brown-robed men you saw earlier when you entered the courtyard have all vanished: the hall is now deserted and as quiet as the grave.</p>
- <p>The library, too, is empty, save for the thousands of books that line the stone shelves. On the far side of the room there is another door&emdash;the only other exit from the library.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to examine some of the books, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to enter the other door, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta>
- <title>22</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gleaming pike heads are barely inches from your chest when you unsheathe your weapon and smash them aside. Your blow shatters their shafts and the guards reel back, wide-eyed and slack-jawed with shock. Seizing your advantage, you spur your horse once more and gallop towards the welcoming shadows of the street ahead. As the outraged cries of the gatehouse guard fade away, you find yourself at a fork in the road. Shadows are lengthening as night draws its cloak around the border town, and you are anxious to find safe lodging for yourself and your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to take the left fork, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to take the right fork, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta>
- <title>23</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow whistles past his shoulder and buries itself in another man's leg as he tries to jump from the ship's rail. If you have another weapon you must unsheathe it, for the pirate is still advancing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92"><link-text>Turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta>
- <title>24</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chapel has lain derelict for many years, exposed to the elements. Very little has survived. In one corner you discover a gaping hole that opens on to another room below. Its floor is covered with large, shiny black puddles, and the overpowering stench of mould and decay is carried upwards by a howling draught. A rat sits on the remains of a corpse, staring up at you in surprise, the dull green light of the chapel reflecting in its peppercorn eyes. As you become accustomed to the gloom, you realize that this room is, in fact, full of corpses: the unfortunate victims of the Yawshath. Then your gaze is drawn to a gleaming bronze warhammer that lies across the chest of a corpse. Everything below is covered in mould except for this weapon which still shines as if it were brand new.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you have a rope, you can attempt to retrieve the warhammer by <link-text>turning to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you would rather ignore the weapon and return to Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta>
- <title>25</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the doorway, a flight of narrow stone steps leads to a small room. Books line two of the walls from floor to ceiling, and another wall is filled with racks of scrolls, hand-bells, and parchments bound round with ribbons of green silk. Then, in the remaining wall, a door opens and a tiny creature with unblinking crimson eyes bids you welcome. Instantly you recognize the stunted features of a Kloon.</p>
- <p><quote>Good evening, sir,</quote> it says in a strong voice that belies its small, squat body. <quote>Welcome to our guild-house. How may we be of service?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to ask the Kloon for directions to Brass Street, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to ask it about the Lorestone of Varetta, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you do not wish to question the creature, you may leave the guild-house and <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta>
- <title>26</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect26-1-foot" idref="sect26-1">
- <p>For this Combat, you may not gain bonuses from a Shield or any weapon other than a Bow. In this case, Weaponmastery with Bow grants you the 3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus points that Weaponmastery with melee weapons normally grants, rather than adding 3 to each Random Number pick (which would not work for the Combat Results Table). Other restrictions may apply, depending on your interpretation of the rules.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect26-2-foot" idref="sect26-2">
- <p>If you are using the Jakan and pick a 0 from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> at any time,<a idref="sect335"> turn immediately to 335</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your score qualifies you for a place in the final, for only one other archer has scored more than eight points. His name is Altan, a tall man with rugged features, a ranger from the mountains to the north. He wields a longbow of orange toa-wood, and his skill with this weapon is formidable; it will be a difficult contest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Altan wields a longbow of orange toa wood</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="325" height="570"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="325" height="570"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Altan</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="target">50</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>The tournament final is played out using the normal rules for combat.<a id="sect26-1" idref="sect26-1-foot" class="footnote"/> The only difference is that you begin with 50 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> or <typ class="attribute">TARGET</typ> points. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you may lose are deducted from these <typ class="attribute">TARGET</typ> points (your normal <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score remaining unchanged throughout the contest). The first one to lose all 50 of his <typ class="attribute">TARGET</typ> points loses the tournament. (You need not erase any arrows from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> during this tournament.)<a id="sect26-2" idref="sect26-2-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you are the first to lose all 50 <typ class="attribute">TARGET</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If Altan is the first to lose all 50 <typ class="attribute">TARGET</typ> points, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta>
- <title>27</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Spurring your horse up the steep path to the manor house, you pass beneath its turreted gate and halt at a small outhouse whose walls are embellished with intricate ironwork. The top half of a stable door swings open, and a spiky-haired youth leers at you.</p>
- <p><quote>Be wantin' a Cess for Amory?</quote> he says offhandedly. <quote>Three Gold Crowns.</quote></p>
- <p>He holds a square of blue card in one hand and presents an open palm with the other.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to ask him what a <quote>Cess</quote> is, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to pay him 3 Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you decide to ignore him and continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta>
- <title>28</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the warrior crashes to the ground, you see your travelling companion embroiled in a struggle with five armoured horsemen. They have him surrounded, and his attempts to free himself are short-lived and futile. A blow from a mace ends all resistance, and he falls limply across the neck of his horse. A moment later, the riders gallop away across the bridge with their unconscious captive in tow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to pursue them, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you wish to search the body of your dead enemy, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta>
- <title>29</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinding pain rips through your chest and thigh as arrows pierce your skin. You scream with shock, but the pain quickly gives way to a terrifying numbness. As your horse carries you on towards the Tekaro gate, your last sight is of the tilting cauldrons full of boiling oil and molten lead.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta>
- <title>30</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The three men exchange wary glances before offering you a seat. A pock-marked warrior snaps his fingers and shouts across the crowded hall: <quote>Wench! Four flagons of ale!</quote></p>
- <p>Beer is drawn into four large earthenware vessels, each of which hold half a gallon of ale. Staggering beneath their weight, the serving girl finally arrives and places the flagons on the table.</p>
- <p><quote>Eight Gold Crowns, sir,</quote> she says, breathlessly, the perspiration standing out on her freckled brow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to pay for the ale, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you cannot or do not want to pay for the ale, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta>
- <title>31</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The memory of the dead woman's face flashes into your mind as you stare into Roark's eyes, glitteringly black beneath his wide-brimmed hat. The resemblance is so striking&emdash;the same aquiline nose and sallow flesh&emdash;that they must be related.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the riders appear and spread out in a semicircle to surround you. A voice shouts, <quote>Arla is dead&emdash;the Northlander killed her!</quote></p>
- <p>The lordling's face is transformed into a mask of trembling hatred. Madness flashes in his eyes as he rips open the front of his tunic and tears an amulet from a black chain around his throat.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, come, Tagazin, I summon thee. From the pit of eternal pain I summon thee!</quote></p>
- <p>The skin on your arms and neck prickles with fear as you hear Roark's terrible invocation. You cast your eyes around you for an escape route; only the churchyard offers a way past the lordling and his men. However, as you spur your horse through the stone gateway, you are frozen with terror by what lies ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta>
- <title>32</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the strands are living organisms, a sensitive and sophisticated trap to ensnare food for some unknown predator. To continue in this direction could prove fatal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to draw the strands aside before you pass through, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you decide to go back to the junction and take a different channel, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta>
- <title>33</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shock awaits you on your return to Cyrilus: both he and your horse have vanished. At first you curse him, thinking that he has wandered off to a nearby ale tent for a drink, but when you discover his oaken staff lying beside the road, you sense that something is seriously wrong.</p>
- <p>You climb to the top of a parked wagon and strain your eyes in all directions for some clue to his whereabouts. Suddenly you see him, surrounded by a group of cavalrymen galloping away to the west. You count six of them plus a riderless horse&emdash;your horse. Then you notice that conveniently hitched to the back of the parked wagon is a saddled horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to take the horse and give chase, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to try to find the horse's owner and offer to buy it, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta>
- <title>34</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of fighting has drawn the attention of many of the mercenaries and their captains. They hang out of the windows and cheer loudly as you dispatch the last of the city watch. You wipe your weapon and noticing a full purse in the pocket of a dead guard, you take it for yourself. (Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 5 to it: this equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the purse.)</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the doors of the tavern open and a mercenary captain ushers you inside before more guards arrive to discover your handiwork. He is very impressed by your fighting prowess and offers to buy you a drink. You sense that it is an honest gesture of friendship without any hidden threat and gratefully accept his offer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta>
- <title>35</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You collect your key and climb the stairs to your room at the top of the tavern. You sleep deeply and at dawn rise from your narrow bed to shiver in the fresh breeze whistling through a cracked window pane. As the harsh light of morning floods the tiny garret, you see to your dismay that your Backpack lies half-open on the floor. A gaping hole has been gnawed from the flap: the unmistakable handiwork of rats. Any Meals you had in your Backpack have been eaten or ruined. Erase them from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before leaving the tavern and collecting your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta>
- <title>36</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are a few feet from the wagon when your horse refuses the jump. It rears up, its forelegs scrabbling at the air. The long day's ride has taken its toll, and your horse has neither the strength nor will left to clear such a daunting obstacle.</p>
- <p>You lurch backwards, falling over the horse's rump and desperately cling to the tightening reins as it teeters on its hind hooves. Suddenly, the horse falls, pinning you beneath her as she crashes to the ground.</p>
- <p>Agonizing pain gives way to numbness as you fight to hang on to life, but it is a battle that you can no longer win.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta>
- <title>37</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the taxidermist jumps up from behind a workbench to your right and hurls a glass flask at your face. You dodge instinctively but the flask smashes against your shoulder, showering you with broken glass and burning acid. You lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>If you survive this terrible attack, the taxidermist unsheathes a rapier and lunges at your heart.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Chanda the Taxidermist</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to evade combat at any time by running from the shop, mounting your horse and galloping away, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you stay and win the combat, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta>
- <title>38</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You vault the parapet with barely seconds to spare and tumble into the cold rushing waters of the River Quarl. You are alive but are being swept away from the bridge by the river's irresistible current.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta>
- <title>39</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chase takes you deep into the heart of the Varettian hills. Soon the highway dips and twists, plunging into the valleys and hollows carved by fast-flowing streams, and climbing through the dense woodland that clings precariously to every precipice and crag. You often lose sight of the riders, but your basic Kai skills of tracking and hunting enable you to follow their trail with ease. It is not until you reach a tiny village perched on the edge of a tree-lined crag that their trail becomes indistinct. However, you notice that at the far side of the village, a stony hill track branches from the main highway and ascends into the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to follow the hill track, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta>
- <title>40</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wipe your weapon on the cloak of a dead grave robber and turn him over with the toe of your boot. Several graves bear the signs of the grave robbers' labour; the freshly-dug soil is heaped high and coffin lids lie shattered and discarded everywhere. The weapons these men have used are old and pitted with rust and obviously acquired, like the rest of their booty, from graves and tombs. A search of the bodies reveals 27 Gold Crowns, a Bottle of Wine and a Mirror. You may take any of these items before leaving the churchyard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta>
- <title>41</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the left fork harbours a hostile or dangerous force. You cannot identify its exact nature, but the aura of wickedness and malevolence is very strong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to investigate what lies beyond the left fork, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to avoid the obvious presence of evil and take the right fork, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta>
- <title>42</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The conditions inside the tent are appalling. Badly wounded men lie on the muddy ground with nothing but rags to dress their injuries. Many are without boots, which have been stolen by their treacherous comrades, who take advantage of their helplessness. One such man is cutting the purse from an unconscious soldier when you enter the hut. He leaps to his feet and attacks you with a curved knife.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Thief</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to evade combat at any time by jumping on your horse and galloping off along the path, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta>
- <title>43</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no reply. You walk round the counter and peer into the back room, but this is also deserted. Your suspicion is aroused when you notice that the oven door and the back door to the hut are both wide open. A rocking chair is lying on its side, and there is other evidence of a recent struggle. You are about to search the room when you hear a faint cry for help. It is Cyrilus&emdash;he is in trouble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317"><link-text>Turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta>
- <title>44</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, there is a tremendous jolt and you are thrown head first against the rail (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The screech of twisting metal and splintering wood tears through the silence as the Kazonara shudders and dips violently. The boat has hit a boom&emdash;a line of logs chained together across the river.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta>
- <title>45</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is Altan. Before you can explain what has happened, he shakes your hand and congratulates you on your prowess with a bow, for in spite of his defeat, he is eager to show that he bears no grudge. You thank him and go on to explain your sorry predicament.</p>
- <p><quote>I think we can make a deal,</quote> he says, his eyes glancing at your silver bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to exchange your newly won prize for Altan's horse, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you do not wish to part with your silver bow, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta>
- <title>46</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A trickle of blood seeps from the corner of the old man's mouth as his eyes flicker and close. He is dead. You bury him in the graveyard of the church where he fell and say a silent prayer to the spirits of the Kai to watch over him on his final journey. A sadness fills your heart, and you take one last look at the oaken staff that marks his grave before setting off on the highway to Varetta.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta>
- <title>47</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>How dare you waste my time,</quote> he snorts contemptuously. <quote>Get rid of this fool!</quote></p>
- <p>His bodyguards step forward, their arms raised for attack. You see that one of them is wearing a spiked knuckle-duster, and judging by the expression on his face, he is eager to make use of it.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>One of them is wearing a spiked knuckleduster</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="637"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="637"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Bodyguards</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Due to the speed of their attack you cannot make use of a bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta>
- <title>48</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hall is soon bustling with noise and activity; tavern brawls are so commonplace in Quarlen that once over they are soon forgotten. The innkeeper's son appears and orders the bodies to be dumped in the river, but not before he relieves them of their purses. <quote>For breakages,</quote> he says with a snigger.</p>
- <p>Lying by your feet is a slim leather tube. You discover that it contains 5 Gold Crowns and a Map of Tekaro, a city to the south. You may keep any of these items. If you wish to keep the map, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to take a seat and order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to approach the bar and ask about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta>
- <title>49</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard snatches the square of blue card from between your fingers then walks over to a spluttering wall torch, which he removes from its bracket. Holding the torch high, he returns and examines first the card and then your face.</p>
- <p><quote>Enter,</quote> he snarls, crumpling the card in his hairy fist. You flick your heel and urge your tired horse through the town gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta>
- <title>50</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>They cannot both be speaking the truth, for the conjurer said that at least one of them was lying. Unfortunately, you have lost your wager.</p>
- <p>Erase the Gold Crowns you staked on the conundrum from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before approaching the bar and enquiring about a room for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta>
- <title>51</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gasp as the blade gashes your hip before sinking several inches into the wooden parapet (you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The pirate is unnerved by the fact that you are still alive and is off balance as you scramble forward and attack. Before he can recover, he is tumbling backwards over the side into the cold, deep waters of the Storn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta>
- <title>52</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hail of arrows engulfs you; pain explodes through your chest, neck and shoulder. You are mortally wounded and although you fight with grim determination to hang on to life, it is a struggle you cannot win. Weak from shock and loss of blood, you fall from the saddle and die on the highway to Varetta.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta>
- <title>53</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man listens to your question while his eyes try to fathom your purpose.</p>
- <p><quote>And what would a warrior be seeking in the Street of the Sages, I wonder?</quote> he muses, his slim fingers stroking his long grey beard.</p>
- <p>You are trying to think of a good answer that will not reveal the nature of your quest when the man suddenly becomes agitated.</p>
- <p><quote>I cannot help you,</quote> he says curtly and hurries away from the bar, vanishing into the crowds of drunken mercenaries in the blink of an eye. You are puzzled by his sudden departure&emdash;was it something you said that caused him to behave so strangely?</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to approach the merchant at his table, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you would rather approach the tavern-keeper, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta>
- <title>54</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have little choice but to spend the night in the stable with your horse. Your sleep is very uncomfortable, for the stable is both draughty and damp. You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta>
- <title>55</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Bah!</quote> exclaims a guard contemptuously. <quote>We have no time for witless wanderers. Go back to Casiorn if you have no business here.</quote> He spits at the ground and the guards turn towards the open town gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to offer them gold to let you enter, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to ride past them and through the open gate, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you decide to turn away and attempt to enter the town by the north gate, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta>
- <title>56</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect56-1" id="sect56-1-foot">
- <p>In later Lone Wolf books, Random Number picks that indicate <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> losses interpret a pick of <quote>0</quote> as a loss of 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than zero. This may or may not be the author's intent in this passage.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow, aim and fire a split second before the bolt of energy hits your chest. Your arrow pierces the leader's heart, killing him instantly, but the wound that you yourself suffer knocks you to the ground. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. The number you have picked equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you have lost due to the chest wound.<a idref="sect56-1-foot" id="sect56-1" class="footnote"/></p>
- <p>If you are still alive, you scramble to your feet and run as fast as you can through the undergrowth towards your horse. The golden rod has been retrieved by one of the other men, and he is preparing to use it again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta>
- <title>57</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt hits you with such force that you are lifted out of the saddle and thrown to the ground. Flashing lights spin before your eyes and you gasp for breath as a terrifying numbness spreads from your chest through your limbs. There is no pain&emdash;only a chilling paralysis that robs you of all resistance to death.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here at the Denka Gate.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta>
- <title>58</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the Kloon is deeply insulted and has gone to fetch his pet: a very ferocious Vassagonian warhound. As the warhound has not been fed for over two days, it is very unlikely that it will listen to reason. Without a moment's hesitation, you decide to leave the guild-house before the Kloon and his hungry hound return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta>
- <title>59</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the time has come for you to decide whether to stay with the captain or to leave his company and ride to Tekaro alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to stay with the captain, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you decide to ride to Tekaro alone, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta>
- <title>60</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The quality of the weapons made by Durenese armourers has justly made them famous throughout the Lastlands. The bow you have chosen is very old, but unlike the other two bows it is still in excellent working order.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">To begin the tournament, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta>
- <title>61</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Discipline makes you sensitive to the faintest aroma of gallowbrush. It is commonly called <quote>Sleeptooth</quote> in your homeland of Sommerlund, for the crushed thorns of the gallowbrush briar make a very powerful sleeping draught. For some unknown reason, this man is trying to make you unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to draw your weapon and attack him, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to throw down your goblet and leave, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta>
- <title>62</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are correct: the boy has blond hair and the girl has black hair. Your logical thinking revealed they could not both have been speaking the truth, for the conjurer had said that at least one of them was lying&emdash;and if one was lying then the other could not have been speaking the truth. Therefore, there was only one conclusion to be drawn: both lied.</p>
- <p>The conjurer pays you the number of Gold Crowns equal to that which you wagered. Remember to add this sum to your current total of Gold Crowns before approaching the bar and enquiring about a room for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta>
- <title>63</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path that leads to Castle Taunor is steep and slippery, and far too treacherous to be attempted on horseback. Cyrilus offers to stay and look after your horse while you collect some spa water, saying that he is too old to climb the hill track. However, you suspect that it is just his excuse to take an afternoon nap.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The path to Castle Taunor is steep and slippery</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="676"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="676"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The castle is less than a mile from the highway, yet it takes over half an hour to complete the hazardous climb to the rock shelf. The crumbling castle walls are covered with damp foliage and mildew, and the over-hanging precipice envelops the keep with its gloomy shadow. You follow the sound of dripping water until you find yourself in a small chapel, where you discover a rivulet of sparkling spa-water trickling from a crack in the altar stone. As you kneel at the altar, filling your glass jar, you suddenly hear a noise: you are not alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta>
- <title>64</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retrace your steps to the junction and pause so that you can decide which is the best route to take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to go straight ahead, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you decide to take the channel to your left, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta>
- <title>65</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a blood-curdling shriek, the Yawshath dives straight for you from the top of the stairs. With ice-cold nerve you steel yourself to strike. Your blow is well timed and deadly accurate, tearing open the creature's chest. A split second later you leap aside to avoid being crushed beneath its heavy body as it crashes into the flagstones. It shudders for a brief moment before death comes to claim its evil soul.</p>
- <p>Shaken, but thankful to be alive, you return to the chapel and fill your glass jar with Taunor Water (there is enough spa water to restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You may drink the water now or store it in your Backpack for future use. If you do keep it, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you now wish to search the chapel, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you decide to return to Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta>
- <title>66</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man is quick to react to your attack. Hurling the silver tray at your head, he escapes through a curtained archway at the back of the shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to give chase, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to let him go and leave the taxidermy, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta>
- <title>67</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street becomes as silent as death as all eyes focus accusingly on you. The leader's face becomes twisted with hatred. He points a crooked finger at your forehead and utters a dreadful curse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta>
- <title>68</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you ride along the quay, you study your <a idref="map">map</a> of the Stornlands for an alternative route to Tekaro. There are two roads that will take you there: the mountain highway through the Ceners via Rhem, or the valley highway through Amory and the forest of Eula. Lack of sleep and fatigue from your long ride cloud your mind and you decide that your first priority must be to have a good night's sleep.</p>
- <p>A quayside tavern displays a sign promising the most comfortable beds in all of Soren. This is all you need to be persuaded to stable your horse and enter its doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta>
- <title>69</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself into the narrow recess and pray that the creature will pass you by. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If it is now 6&endash;14, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta>
- <title>70</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The path ends at the point where the Rivers Storn and Quarl converge in a V-shaped bank. Ogron engineers and carpenters are busy at work constructing pontoons for floating bridges, which look like enclosed rowing boats and are destined to be used to cross the river further downstream.</p>
- <p>Staring out across the water, you notice a dark shadow like the entrance to a cave at the base of the city wall. After concentrating for a few moments, you find you can make out the dull criss-cross of metal bars. It is a sewer outfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you wish to ask the blue-skinned Ogrons what they know about the sewer outfall, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to try to take one of the pontoons and row across the river, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you wish to swim across the river, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta>
- <title>71</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man leaps back, unsheathing a wide-bladed sword from beneath his bearskin cloak. <quote>Fool!</quote> he cries, contemptuously. <quote>Victory to the man who is left alive.</quote> You have insulted this man, and he is determined to fight you to the death as a matter of honour. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control you may add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight as you are fighting from the saddle.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>He is determined to fight you to the death</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="675"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="675"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Redbeard</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to evade combat at any time by galloping along the street, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta>
- <title>72</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shouts of the town guard sergeant ring in your ears as you urge your horse towards the wagon. You pray that your mount has strength enough to clear the obstacle, for you are now committed to jumping it&emdash;you cannot turn back.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If your total is now 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If your total is now 2&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If your total is now 8&endash;11, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta>
- <title>73</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly before noon you pass through a deserted village. The burnt-out ruins of cottages and farmsteads dot the landscape like charred skeletons&emdash;the unmistakable signs of war. A mile or two farther along the highway you come across a church. A man, his clothes ragged and covered with mud, is moving amongst the gravestones, staggering like a wounded carrion crow. As you reach the church gate, he sees you and cries out pitifully for help.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="281" height="175" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="281" height="175" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to help the man, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you do not wish to help the man and would rather ignore him and continue riding towards Soren, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta>
- <title>74</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You do not have to wait very long for the riders to appear. As soon as they think you have gone, they emerge in single file from the back of a derelict cottage and draw themselves into a circle in the middle of the village. Although they are out of earshot, you can tell by their frantic movements and gestures that they are having a heated argument. Suddenly, they break the circle and ride towards you. Cyrilus, still lying unconscious across his horse, is in tow behind the last rider.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have a bow and want to ambush them as they ride past your hiding place, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to attack the last rider and try to recapture Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to let them pass and then follow them, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta>
- <title>75</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A deafening roar of rage and pain fills your ears. The monster staggers back, its face transformed into a bloody scarlet mask as the arrow pierces its eye. It shudders and sways before keeling over on to its back, writhing for a brief moment in the mud and debris of the chapel floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta>
- <title>76</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is customary for the proprietor of the Inn of the Crossed Swords to throw out anyone who cannot pay his board and lodging. This makes your position difficult as the curfew bell was rung nearly an hour ago and anyone found in the streets an hour after its sounding is liable to be imprisoned by the city watch.</p>
- <p>Rather than face imprisonment and the possible failure of your quest, you can sell some of your equipment in order to raise cash. The fat-bellied mercenary who took your bets will pay the following prices for these (but only these) Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>SWORD&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>DAGGER&emdash;1 Gold Crown</li>
- <li>BROADSWORD&emdash;6 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>SHORT SWORD&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>MACE&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>RUBY RING&emdash;10 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>WARHAMMER&emdash;5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>SPEAR&emdash;4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>AXE&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>BOW&emdash;5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>QUARTERSTAFF&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>SILVER BROOCH&emdash;7 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You will need a minimum of 2 Gold Crowns in order to stay the night at the Inn of the Crossed Swords.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to sell him some equipment, make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to keep your equipment, or do not have items of interest to the mercenary, you must take your chances with the city watch and <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta>
- <title>77</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Leaping over the dead bodies, you fight your way across the deck to where the captain is in combat with five pirates. While he attacks with a longsword in his right hand, he parries enemy cutlasses with a bronze sleeve-shield that encases his left forearm. He fights with cool determination, making light work of the battle-clumsy pirates. Then a war-horn heralds the arrival of a new and formidable wave of attackers. You anticipate the captain's danger and rush to protect his back from the snarling, mad-eyed pirate berserkers.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You rush to protect the captain from<br/>the snarling pirate berserkers</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="688"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="688"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Pirate Berserkers</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Due to their state of battle-frenzy, the pirate berserkers are immune to Mindblast, but not Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta>
- <title>78</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prepare yourself for combat and leap to the defence of the helpless old man just in time to turn aside the lordling's sword.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse you, scum!</quote> he cries. <quote>I am Roark, highborn of Amory. How dare you interfere with my sport.</quote></p>
- <p>He feints withdrawal but you are not taken in by his street-brawl tactics. As his sword cuts the air in a vicious back-handed slash, you are ready to parry the blow. The tavern crowd cheer in anticipation of a good fight.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Roark</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you reduce Roark's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to 11 points or less, do not continue the combat but <link-text>turn instead to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta>
- <title>79</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass many soldiers of different races and nationalities, lolling in open doorways or squatting against the red brick walls. They are mercenaries, drawn to Varetta by the news of war in the north. They come in search of employment, for the chance to sell their skills to any buyer, indifferent to the justness of his cause.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="198" height="181" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="198" height="181" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Beneath a black iron lantern, you notice a group of men throwing dice against the side of a wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to stop and ask them the way to Brass Street, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you wish to continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta>
- <title>80</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flame illuminates a deep circular pit where the floor of the chamber should be. Lying at the bottom are a myriad of human skulls and bones, their surfaces strangely smooth and yellow as if corroded by some powerful acid. The faintest of sounds makes you glance over your shoulder&emdash;you are frozen with terror by the sight that meets your eyes. A huge lumbering monster fills the tunnel, over ten feet tall with thick, twisted limbs and eight-fingered hands tipped with razor-sharp talons that are poised to rip your flesh. Baleful, monstrous eyes protrude from yellow slits in its glistening head, and a long reptilian tail whips behind it.</p>
- <p>It strikes before you can react, knocking you back into the pit. A peculiar and hideous sound fills the chamber as it claws a lever in the wall, causing a rain of yellow fluid to pour from the ceiling. As the acid eats through your cloak and sears your flesh, the last thing you hear is the hideous laughter of the Dakomyd.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here in the sewers of Tekaro.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta>
- <title>81</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrows scream past on all sides. One shaft gouges a furrow of skin from the horse's rump, causing him to twist and buck; you shorten the reins and urge him forward. Your quick thinking helps you regain control of the frightened animal, and soon you are well out of range of the deadly arrows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta>
- <title>82</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hold of the riverboat is full of horses: not the slow carthorses favoured by merchants but strong and sturdy mounts that carry many scars of battle upon their muscular flanks. You unsaddle your mare, load her manger with feed and then make your way back on deck.</p>
- <p>As you emerge from the hold, a voice calls out to you and you raise your weary eyes. It is the captain&emdash;the mercenary leader you ran across at the Inn of the Crossed Swords.</p>
- <p><quote>Well met, my friend,</quote> he cries and slaps you enthusiastically on the shoulder. <quote>So you changed your mind! You have come to join my band of fearless fighters.</quote> Before you have a chance to answer, the captain and his men, who are all considerably the worse for drink, stumble past on a quest of the utmost importance&emdash;the search for the wine store. You are far too tired and weary to follow&emdash;the thought of your cabin bed and a good night's sleep is all that interests you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta>
- <title>83</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old man narrows his mousy eyes and looks at you with a cautious stare. <quote>It is but a legend. Some say it contained great power; others say its power existed only in the minds of those who craved to own it. Whatever the truth is, the Lorestone has been lost for hundreds of years.</quote></p>
- <p>You sense that the old magician is not telling you all he knows about the Lorestone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to identify yourself and tell him the nature of your quest, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you choose not to reveal your identity, bid him goodnight and <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta>
- <title>84</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The taxidermist points to a vat in the corner of the room that contains a noxious blue fluid, which is obviously the source of the unpleasant smell.</p>
- <p><quote>My special preservative,</quote> he says proudly. <quote>It has taken me many years to perfect the formula, but my experiments are now complete. All I require is a specimen worthy of the immortality it can provide.</quote></p>
- <p>The man's voice is beginning to sound faint and distant, as if he were falling away from you into a deep, dark pit. Your eyelids feel heavy, and you are having difficulty in concentrating on what he says. Suddenly, you realize that you have been drugged; the wine contained a powerful draught of gallowbrush, although you did not detect it at the time. You fight to remain awake, but it is a battle you cannot win, for the enemy is in your very blood. The taxidermist has at last found a specimen worthy of his special preservative&emdash;the last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta>
- <title>85</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you hear the click of the crossbow trigger, you throw yourself to the ground to avoid the deadly missile. The bolt grazes your scalp (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and embeds itself in the side of the log hut. A moment later you are back on your feet. The warrior discards his empty weapon and reins his horse about in order to follow the others across the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you have a bow, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you do not have a bow, you must mount your horse and give chase, and <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta>
- <title>86</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prising the pouch from the thief's hand, you return it to the pocket of the unconscious soldier. Many of the wounded men witness what you have done, and from that moment you become a hero in their eyes. Your use of the Magnakai Discipline of Curing to heal many of their wounds strengthens their esteem and devotion, and they pledge themselves to help you in any way they can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to ask them if there is any way of getting into Tekaro undetected, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you do not wish to ask them anything and would rather leave, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta>
- <title>87</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The town watch rush forward to avenge their sergeant's death, but in their haste they leave the gap between the two wagons unprotected. You are quick to notice this opportunity for escape and spur your mount straight for the running guards. These fresh-faced young men have no battle-skill&emdash;their attack is clumsy and hesitant. You break through them in a matter of seconds and have soon left them far behind as you gallop along the street beyond the wagons.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="328" height="105" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="328" height="105" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta>
- <title>88</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your speedy dispatch of the robbers has earned you 5 Gold Crowns, which you find in the pockets of the dead men, and the respectful glances of several mercenary captains. One in particular is so impressed by your fighting prowess that he approaches you and offers to buy you a drink. You sense that it is a honest gesture of friendship without any hidden threat and gratefully accept his offer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta>
- <title>89</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Esmond, you old rascal, show yourself&emdash;it's Cyrilus, your brother. I've someone with me I want you to meet,</quote> cries the wizard as he raps on the gate with his oaken staff. There is no reply. He smiles and shrugs his bony shoulders before shouting: <quote>Wake up you old fool, I know you're in there,</quote> but still there is no reply.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta>
- <title>90</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The faintest of sounds makes you glance over your shoulder. You are frozen with abject terror by the sight that greets you. A huge, lumbering monster fills the tunnel, over ten feet high with thick, twisted limbs and eight-fingered hands tipped with razor-sharp talons that are poised to rip your flesh. Baleful, monstrous eyes protrude from yellow slits in its glistening head, and a long reptilian tail whips behind it.</p>
- <p>Before you can react, it strikes, knocking you back into a pit. A peculiar and hideous sound fills the vault, and you feel a hot sticky fluid raining down on your head. As it eats through your cloak and sears your flesh, the last thing you hear is the hideous laughter of the Dakomyd.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here in the sewers of Tekaro.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta>
- <title>91</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your curiosity is drawn to a game of cards that is taking place in the centre of the hall. Six ruddy-faced men are gambling against a croupier on the turn of the cards. You are quick to spot that the deck he is using is marked. When a seat is vacated by one of the men, you take his place. The first round is on the house&emdash;you need not place a stake.</p>
- <p>Needless to say, knowing how the game has been rigged, you win the first round and continue to win several more. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 5 to it. This equals the number of Gold Crowns that you win before the dealer suspects something is wrong and ends the game.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">Now that you have some gold in your pouch once more, if you wish to approach the bar and ask about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to take a seat and order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta>
- <title>92</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man shrieks his battle-cry and lashes out with a heavy-bladed cutlass.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Deldenian River Pirate</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to evade combat at any time, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you win and combat lasts 3 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If combat lasts longer than 3 rounds, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta>
- <title>93</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking hold of the man's shoulder, you shake him to try to wake him from his drunken slumber, but he keels over and slumps to the floor. The back of his shirt is covered with a huge bloodstain spreading from the handle of a dagger that is buried deep in his spine. As you recoil in horror, you hear a faint cry for help. It is Cyrilus&emdash;he is in trouble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317"><link-text>Turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta>
- <title>94</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ripping aside the curtain, you rush into a small room full of storage cupboards and work tables. You cast your eyes around the workshop annex, but there is no sign of the man: he has vanished.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta>
- <title>95</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghastly sound of the creature's hungry cry chills your blood. It is barely a few feet away when you let loose your arrow.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If it is 4&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta>
- <title>96</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An hour after sunset you arrive at the gates of Amory. Beneath the deepening shadow of its watchful guard tower, you fight back your fatigue and wait as the gate creaks open. A soldier wearing a hauberk of black and gold chainmail strides forward and demands to see a Cess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you possess a Cess, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta>
- <title>97</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ambush is so sudden and so swift that only luck can save you now. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If the number is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If the number is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta>
- <title>98</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The smell of dust and rusty metal wafts in your face as you enter the cluttered weapons shop. All manner of arms are stacked in racks that rise precariously to the ceiling. Their prices are chalked on a circular slate that hangs above the counter.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>BROADSWORDS&emdash;7 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>DAGGERS&emdash;2 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>SHORT SWORDS&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>WARHAMMERS&emdash;6 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>SPEARS&emdash;5 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>MACES&emdash;4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>AXES&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>BOWS&emdash;7 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>QUARTERSTAVES&emdash;3 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>SWORDS&emdash;4 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>ARROWS&emdash;2 for 1 Gold Crown</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above weapons if you have enough money to do so. The shop owner will also buy any weapons that you may already have for 1 Gold Crown less than the price shown on the slate. Mark any changes on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before you leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta>
- <title>99</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel a numbing shock, and then the damp warmth of blood begins to soak your tunic. You fight for breath, but your strength is sapped by the terrible wounds made by the pike heads. You swoon and fall to the ground through loss of blood, unconscious of the sword blade that is poised to end your life.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life have come to an early and tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta>
- <title>100</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you catch your first breath-taking glimpse of Varetta. Built on a massive plateau, this city has stood since time immemorial. The walls and buildings are immense, constructed from blood-red rock and crowded together in complicated splendour. Great stone dragons writhe along the battlements, their coiled tails entangling the gatehouses and portals of the outer wall, and spirals of smoke rise from the mouths of angry-faced gargoyles, crouching like spies on top of the roofs and towers that fill the sky.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The ancient city of Varetta</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="677"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="677"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The sun has set by the time you reach the east gate. The red-coated guards offer no challenge, and you pass into the wide streets of this magnificent city, to arrive eventually at a quadrangle. A pillar of red stone indicates the names of the streets that lead away from the square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to go north into Helm Way, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to go west into Coachcourse, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to go south into Flute Street, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you decide to go east, along the street down which you have just ridden, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta>
- <title>101</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make a noose at one end of the rope and lower it carefully through the hole in the floor. If you can slip the noose around the head of the hammer, it should tighten as you pull on the rope and draw the hammer upwards.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta>
- <title>102</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night has fallen by the time you reach the river town of Soren, and the sky is clear and full of stars that sparkle with icy splendour. You ride the main street towards the quay where a score of river ships lie docked at the town. Their signal lamps, shimmering red and green from the mast-tops, reflect upon the cold, dark waters of the River Storn.</p>
- <p>A board standing beside the gangplank to a large transport caravel catches your eye. On it are chalked the prices of passage to three destinations.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>LUYEN&emdash;10 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>RHEM&emdash;15 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>EULA&emdash;20 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>A fourth destination&emdash;Tekaro&emdash;has been crossed out and scribbled beside it is: <quote>Cancelled due to war</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to buy a ticket to one of the destinations, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you do not wish to buy a ticket&emdash;or cannot afford to&emdash;<link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta>
- <title>103</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, your score is too low to qualify for the next round of the contest and you are politely asked to leave the field. If you have been using a borrowed bow, you must return it to the tent before making your way back to Cyrilus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta>
- <title>104</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your thoughts return to your quest and to Cyrilus' dying words. The man he was taking you to meet lives in Brass Street, but in a city the size of Varetta it could take you days to find the right street. You decide to try to find out where it is from someone in the tavern and look around the massive hall in search of a likely source of information.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to approach a merchant who sits alone at a nearby table, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to ask a distinguished-looking man who stands at the bar, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to ask the tavern-keeper, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta>
- <title>105</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few hundred yards along the street is the east gate through which you entered the city. Two streets lead away from the gatehouse; one heading north, the other south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to go north, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to go south, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta>
- <title>106</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Painfully, you drag yourself from beneath the dead monster. Several of your ribs are cracked, and you have a nasty gash on the back of your head, but at least you are still alive.</p>
- <p>You stagger up the stairs and back to the chapel where you fill your glass jar with Taunor Water. (The healing spa water will restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) You may drink the Water now or place the glass jar in your Backpack for future use. If you keep the Taunor Water, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to search the chapel, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you decide to return to Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta>
- <title>107</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trapdoor is heavy and stiff, but gradually its seal of rust cracks and loosens under the pressure. Inch by inch you force it open to reveal at last the cobblestoned city square. Across the square, directly ahead, is the cathedral of Tekaro. As the square is teeming with guards, you are forced to close the hatch quickly to avoid being detected.</p>
- <p>You estimate that the cathedral is approximately two hundred yards due east. As you descend the steps and continue through the passage, you pray that the sewer will give access to the crypt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta>
- <title>108</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prepare to defend yourself against a sudden attack while trying to give the impression that you are, in fact, relaxing your guard. There is a long pause before the leader turns his back on you and addresses his followers in a loud, self-righteous tone.</p>
- <p><quote>Witness the power of Vashna, my brothers&emdash;his spirit is alive. Even this ignorant and unworthy stranger acknowledges his presence.</quote></p>
- <p>A doleful lament rises from the procession in praise of their leader. As the ghastly chanting builds up to a fevered climax, you slip into the shadows of an alley and spur your horse away from the sinister worshippers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta>
- <title>109</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Some of the men laugh and look at you as though you are crazy, but one man calls you over to his side and hands you a leather tube.</p>
- <p><quote>It's a Map of Tekaro,</quote> he whispers, painfully. <quote>I&ellips; I don't know how you can enter the city, but if you do find a way this map may be of use.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the injured man and leave the tent. Unless you already possess a Map of Tekaro, you may keep this Map. Mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta>
- <title>110</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>None passin' by 'ere,</quote> she says, her voice heavy with a highland accent. <quote>Track go t' top o' Beacon 'ill an' no mor'n that.</quote> You sense that the old woman is telling the truth: the riders have not come this way and the track leads nowhere&emdash;it is a dead end. You thank her and bid her farewell before turning around and descending the track.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta>
- <title>111</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A yellow velvet pouch hanging from a dead pirate's belt catches your eye. You cut it free and discover that it contains some Potion of Laumspur, a herb with well-known healing properties. This pouch contains enough of the herb to restore 4 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You may either swallow the Laumspur now or place it in your Backpack for future use.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77"><link-text>Turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta>
- <title>112</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature shudders and its arms jerk, clawing at the air. As it dies, its body twitches with a few final convulsions. You stare down at the hideous carcass but quickly pull away when you notice that its fur is alive with crawling parasites. They know instinctively that their old host is dead, and they are abandoning the body in search of a new one.</p>
- <p>You hurry over to the altar where you fill your glass jar with Taunor Water. (The healing spa water will restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) You may drink the Water now or place the glass jar in your Backpack for future use. If you do keep it, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you now wish to search the rest of the chapel, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you decide to return to Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta>
- <title>113</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This is not the correct answer. The conjurer stated that at least one child was lying and if one lied then the other could not have been telling the truth. The right answer is that both children lied, so unfortunately you have lost the gold you wagered.</p>
- <p>Erase the Gold Crowns you staked on the conundrum from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before approaching the bar and enquiring about a room for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta>
- <title>114</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You silence the robber's whispered threats, slamming your clenched fist into his throat and at the same time grabbing hold of his tunic with your other hand. He tries to scream but his larynx has been crushed by your blow. He gurgles pitifully as you twist him around to shield yourself as his accomplice lunges with his dagger. It sinks deeply into the robber's heart, and as he slumps to his knees, you draw your own weapon and attack his startled killer. Due to the surprise of your attack, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of combat.</p>
- <combat>
-
- <enemy>Backstabber</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta>
- <title>115</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The startled guard dives aside as you spur your horse straight for him. You find that the gatehouse arch opens on to a cobblestoned square, but the only exit is blocked by the wagon and merchant caravan. A dozen guards, dressed in the green and black tunics of the town watch, are checking their cargoes. As you burst from the shadows of the gatehouse arch, they see you and cry in unison: <quote>Tollbreaker! Tollbreaker!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to rein in your horse and prepare to fight the town watch, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to attempt to jump over the wagons and escape into the shadows of the winding street ahead, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta>
- <title>116</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the door bursts open and in lopes a ravenous warhound. <quote>Supper time, Goregasher!</quote> cries the Kloon, gleefully, as the slavering hound leaps at your throat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <quote>Supper time, Goregasher!</quote> cries the Kloon gleefully</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="679"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="679"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Ravenous Warhound</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>You may evade this attack in the first round of combat only, by running from the room and escaping down the stairs to the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta>
- <title>117</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai Discipline, you examine both the hill path and the highway for recent tracks. To your surprise you discover that neither route has been used by horsemen in the last three hours. It can mean only one thing&emdash;the riders are hiding somewhere in the village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to ride back into the village, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to hide in the trees and wait for the riders to show themselves, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta>
- <title>118</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sleep soundly and then rise an hour after dawn, clear-headed and eager to continue your ride. The morning news from the south is that the mountain highway to Rhem is impassable; an avalanche has destroyed all traces of the road near Mount Navalyn, and it will be many weeks before the rubble is cleared and the road rebuilt. This leaves you with only one choice&emdash;you must take the valley road through Amory and the forest of Eula.</p>
- <p>You gather together your equipment and set off without delay. If you are to reach Amory by sunset, you will need to ride at great speed and without a break.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta>
- <title>119</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cyrilus' eyes open with such surprise that you can see the startled whites around his mousy-brown pupils. <quote>Lone Wolf,</quote> he whispers, incredulously, <quote>I should have known. Humble apologies, my lord. I thought that you sought the Lorestone for less than honourable reasons.</quote></p>
- <p>Cyrilus talks at great length about the legend of the Lorestone. You learn that it remained in Varetta after Sun Eagle's quest, where it was set into the throne of Lyris in the Tower of the King. Hundreds of years ago, during the War of the Lorestone, it was stolen by a Salonese prince called Kaskor. He set the stone upon a gold sceptre and used it in battle to inspire his fanatical followers and crush his foes. He believed it made him invulnerable, but this was not so&emdash;he was killed on his royal barge during a battle at Rhem, and the Lorestone was lost when the gold sceptre fell from his hand into the depths of the River Storn. There were many accounts of the sceptre having been found, but they had always proved to be untrue or simply fanciful. It was said that whoever wielded the Lorestone was the rightful ruler of all the Stornlands. For this reason alone it was often sought by evil or unscrupulous warlords, and many had pursued the quest, all without success.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="372" height="133" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="372" height="133" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Cyrilus does not know where the Lorestone is, but he does know a man in Varetta who claims to know its exact whereabouts. <quote>Let me ride with you to Varetta; in return for the privilege I shall take you to this man.</quote> Your basic Kai instincts tell you his offer is genuine. You nod your agreement and arrange to meet him in the tavern courtyard at dawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta>
- <title>120</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than fifty yards along the channel, another passage joins the main flow from the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to investigate this new passage, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you wish to press on along the main course, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta>
- <title>121</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shop is filled with a fascinating collection of stuffed creatures, each one in a life-like pose and displayed in a realistic setting. A two-headed wolf stands guard at the entrance to a cave, a baknar lies on a snowy ledge and a desert ganthi drinks its fill from a sculptured oasis of sandstone and toa-trees.</p>
- <p>You are examining the beautifully preserved head of an itikar when you hear a soft, cultivated voice behind you.</p>
- <p><quote>Good evening, sir. Welcome to my establishment.</quote></p>
- <p>A tall, aristocratic man dressed in a richly embroidered robe steps forward and bows. He is clearly impressed by your interest in his work and offers to conduct you on a brief tour of his shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you wish to see more of the fascinating taxidermy, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to decline his generous offer and leave the shop, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta>
- <title>122</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn you that a steep drop lies beyond the breach in the castle wall. If you were to run that way, you could be heading for your doom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to ignore your instincts and climb through the hole in the castle wall, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to run down the stairs towards the iron gate, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta>
- <title>123</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A handful of Alether Berries costs 3 Gold Crowns. If you swallow them before a fight, they will increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight. You may purchase up to 3 handfuls of Alether Berries. Each handful counts as one Backpack Item, but you cannot swallow more than one handful during any one combat.</p>
- <p>When you have concluded your purchases, you remount your horse and leave the village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta>
- <title>124</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The city is choked with people: mercenaries from the north and west, weapon merchants from the east and ragged refugees from the war-torn south. The captain orders his men to sleep aboard the Kazonara this night, forbidding them to go ashore, for Prince Balonn of Rioma and his mercenary knights are encamped inside the city wall. A bitter and long-standing rivalry exists between the two companies, and the captain wisely wishes to avoid any confrontation.</p>
- <p>Rumour has it that a number of the Stornlands' most powerful princes are gathered in Rhem to plot the defeat of the Slovians. However, the captain believes it is more likely that the robber-barons are conspiring against each other to steal the riches of Tekaro for themselves.</p>
- <p>You set sail at first light, bidding farewell to the slender twin-towers of the Rhem citadel, which overshadows the city quay. The Storn flows southwards through steep-sided fields of vines, arranged in endless straight rows like the waves of a green sea. The weather is warm, and you spend the day on deck watching the traffic of refugees heading north along a highway and the strange gigantic toads, the sloats, at work, pulling riverboats and barges upstream.</p>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you sight the town of Eula in the distance. You saddle your horse and shoulder your equipment as the Kazonara berths at the town's wooden pier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you purchased a Riverboat Ticket for the riverboat at Soren, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you do not have a Riverboat Ticket, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta>
- <title>125</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldiers are swilling ale and reminiscing about their campaigns with wild exaggeration. They are brash and loud, but an uneasy silence quickly falls when they see you approach. You notice that their hands are no longer grasping mugs of ale; they now rest upon the hilts of their heavy-bladed swords.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="249" height="177" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="249" height="177" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to offer to buy them a drink, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to ask permission to join them, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you choose to ignore them and would rather take a seat elsewhere and order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta>
- <title>126</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrows sweep across the river as the captain draws the company into line at the approach to the Tekaro bridge. The burnt-out hulks of siege towers and the bodies of dead soldiers lie strewn in heaps before the battered city gate. The fortified gatehouse bristles with archers, and the setting sun glints on the cauldrons of boiling oil and molten lead mounted on top of the battlements.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="304" height="162" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="304" height="162" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Charge!</quote> screams the captain, and suddenly you are swept up and carried across the bridge by a frenzied wave of horsemen.</p>
- <p>Thirty yards from the gate, the archers open fire. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If the number you have picked is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If the number you have picked is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta>
- <title>127</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door clicks shut behind you. It takes a few seconds for your eyes to grow accustomed to the dimly lit interior, but the room appears to be the antechamber of a larger hall. Following the faint sound of voices, you pass through an archway, along a corridor and into the main hall. Gathered about a circular table of gleaming steel, a group of elderly men are poring over books, star charts and astral maps and engrossed in discussion. Globes of blue-white fire hang motionless in the air above them to illuminate their work. The old men do not see you until you are close to their steel table. Their reaction to your sudden appearance is astonishing&emdash;they look as though they have seen a ghost. There are yelps of shock and startled expressions; sweat forms on their brows. The sight is too much for one old man, who swoons and faints, falling limply across his books and maps. Only one man remains calm and collected.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The elderly men are poring over<br/>their books and star charts</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="674"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="674"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you have ever visited a hut on Raider's Road in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you have never been to this place, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta>
- <title>128</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blood is pounding in your ears as you hear the approaching Yawshath splashing through the ankle-deep slime of the passage floor. Hideous laughter echoes from all sides, building up in a deafening crescendo. Suddenly, you realize the awful truth&emdash;there are in fact two Yawshaths. You have unwittingly entered their lair, and now they have you trapped. You fight valiantly, but in the dark and fetid confines of the Yawshaths' den, the creatures overwhelm you and tear you to pieces.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta>
- <title>129</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, all hell breaks loose. Alarm bells ring, gruff voices bellow and scream and the crunching of boots on stone echoes round the town. A troop of soldiers surround you, their faces twisted and unnatural in the glare of their flaming torches. Your senses have been dulled by fatigue, and you are dragged from the saddle and disarmed before you have had a chance to react. Cold iron chains are wound tightly around your arms and body, and you are roughly pushed into a grey stone gaol. A wave of terror engulfs you as you catch a fleeting glimpse of a poster pasted to the gaol door. You see your own face before you; beneath it is written: <quote>Death sentence&emdash;by order of Lord Roark, Highborn of Amory.</quote></p>
- <p>Within the hour, your head is resting upon the executioner's block. As the razor-sharp blade of a two-handed axe whistles towards your neck, the last sound you hear is the malicious and vengeful laugh of the young lordling.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta>
- <title>130</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When they realize who you are, their suspicion vanishes to be replaced by respect; your reputation, it seems, has spread far beyond the borders of your northern home. Eagerly, the three men offer you a seat and call for a fresh round of ales at their expense. They are clearly honoured by your company and keen to press you about your exploits. You try to answer their barrage of questions with polite caution, taking care not to reveal the precise nature of your quest. However, despite their surly features and rough manner, you sense that these men are genuinely friendly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta>
- <title>131</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your keen eyesight enables you to make out a line of dark shapes in front of the ship. It is a line of logs chained together: a boom lying directly in the path of the riverboat. Instantly you recognize the danger and rush to the bridge to warn the helmsman.</p>
- <p><quote>Look out! There's a boom across the river!</quote></p>
- <p>Desperately, he spins the ship's wheel, but it is too late to avoid a collision. The screech of twisted metal and splintering wood tears through the silence as the Kazonara swings broadside-on into the chained logs. You brace yourself and hang on tightly as the boat lurches and rocks back and forth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta>
- <title>132</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the small, flat-faced man: he was the umpire of the archery tournament. He asks you what is troubling you, and you explain your sorry predicament.</p>
- <p><quote>I'm sure we can find a solution to your problem,</quote> he says, obviously relishing the thought of profiting by your misfortune. He will accept either 2 Special Items or 20 Gold Crowns in exchange for his horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you agree to his proposal, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you cannot, or do not wish to, agree to his proposal, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta>
- <title>133</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You're looking at the <quote>Hell-hole</quote>,</quote> says an Ogron. <quote>When the siege began, Prince Ewevin sent ten humans in there to find out where it leads. When they never came back he sent ten Ogrons in. Ain't seen none of 'em since!</quote></p>
- <p>Another Ogron, who is splitting a log with his bare hands, overhears the conversation. <quote>We've heard noises in the <quote>Hell-hole</quote> late at night,</quote> he says guilefully, <quote>horrible noises.</quote> He draws a fat finger across his blue-black throat before returning to his work.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to ask the Ogrons if you can use one of their pontoons to row across to the <quote>Hell-hole</quote>, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you decide to swim across instead, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta>
- <title>134</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the Taunor valley, the highway twists and climbs across wooded hillsides, often plunging into narrow valleys where bubbling, trout-laden streams wend their way southwards to the Quarl. Butterflies gather in clouds above clumps of sweet-smelling flowers bordering the road, and the constant twitterings of bird song add a sense of tranquillity to the beautiful countryside.</p>
- <p><quote>It comforts me to know there is still one part of Lyris where war and death are unfamiliar visitors,</quote> says Cyrilus, puffing nonchalantly on a long-stemmed clay pipe. <quote>Alas, nowadays, such peace is rare.</quote></p>
- <p>The highway passes the ruins of a monastery and then descends steeply towards some log huts, clustered in a semicircle at the approach to a stone bridge. A tall gate, flanked by two mighty towers of stone, commands the access to the bridge.</p>
- <p><quote>The Denka Gate,</quote> says Cyrilus. <quote>The toll is 3 Gold Crowns to cross the bridge, unless, of course, the gatekeeper is your brother.</quote> He gives a sly wink and smiles. <quote>This may take a while&emdash;I haven't seen my brother Esmond for over a month, and he is bound to want to hear all the latest gossip from Quarlen before he lets us cross.</quote></p>
- <p>Cyrilus points out two of the log huts where wooden signs, carved in the shapes of an ale tankard and a loaf of bread, hang above the doors. <quote>The best ale and bread in all of Lyris. Mention my name and you'll be treated like a king.</quote></p>
- <p>You are feeling hungry and thirsty after your long ride, and the prospect of free refreshment is very tempting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to enter the ale hut, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you wish to enter the bread hut, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you decide to stay with Cyrilus and approach the Denka Gate, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta>
- <title>135</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride between ranks of carved stone idols, whose mouths hold flickering torches, which illuminate this broad avenue. Mercenaries of all races and nationalities pack the street, talking, boasting or simply dozing in the shadows. At the end of the street, you arrive at a junction where a woman in filthy clothes sits nursing a crying child. As you pass, she holds out a grimy hand and begs for Gold Crowns to feed her hungry baby.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="198" height="181" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="198" height="181" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to stop and give the poor woman some Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to ignore her and continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta>
- <title>136</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skill makes you sensitive to the faint aroma of gallowbrush. It is commonly known as <quote>Sleeptooth</quote> in Sommerlund, for its crushed thorns make a powerful sleeping potion. You realize that, for reasons unknown to you, this man is trying to render you unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to draw your weapon and attack him, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to put down your goblet and hurry out of the taxidermy, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta>
- <title>137</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A peasant wagon and a merchant caravan bearing the toa-tree emblem of Casiorn are waiting in front of the town gate. You bring your horse to a halt and wait in line as the great door of rust-red iron slowly creaks open. A guard appears and gestures to the wagon and caravan to enter, but he lowers his spear menacingly as you prepare to follow. <quote>The town levy is 3 Gold Crowns, stranger. Pay or turn away.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to pay the levy, give the guard 3 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you do not wish to pay the tax and wish to try to ride past the guard, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta>
- <title>138</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner have the doors of the inn slammed shut than you find yourself face to face with the city watch patrol. Every night, as a matter of routine, they wait for the drunks and rejects from the Inn of the Crossed Swords to be thrown on to the street. The burly guards grab you by the shoulders and attempt to strip you of your belongings before bundling you into a waiting cart. Instinctively, you fight to break free, but the guards take this as a threat. They unsheathe their swords and attack. You cannot evade combat and must fight the city watch to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Varetta City Watch</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta>
- <title>139</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prise open the visor of the dead warrior's helmet, half-expecting to see the rough features of a bandit or highwayman. It comes as a shock to find the cold and empty eyes of a dead woman staring back at you. The shape of her body was concealed by the thick plates of armour and a clutch of magras reeds in the mouth-piece of her visor had effectively disguised her voice.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="232" height="64" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="232" height="64" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You find few clues to identify her: an Axe, a pouch containing 11 Gold Crowns, a Dagger and a Silver Brooch are all she carries: hired killers travel light. You examine the Silver Brooch and decide to keep it. (Mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) There is something vaguely familiar about her face but you cannot remember why. Suddenly, your thoughts return to the plight of your companion&emdash;his life is in danger. You mount your horse without further delay and gallop across the Denka Bridge in pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta>
- <title>140</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press on diligently, counting the steps that take you along the sewer until you reach a narrow vault a little over one hundred and fifty yards from the previous junction. An iron ladder, its rungs pitted with rust, rises out of the water to an arched stone door. Beneath the door, the sewer continues into the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to climb the ladder and investigate the arched door, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta>
- <title>141</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cyrilus offers to stay and look after the horses while you take part in the contest. He says that archery holds no interest for him, but you suspect this is just an excuse to take an afternoon nap. You hand him the reins of your horse and hurry to join a line of men waiting to enter the tournament field.</p>
- <p>The event reminds you of a Sommlending village pageant and the jugglers, the dancers and the numerous sideshows all add to the festive spirit. Eventually, you reach the gate where a cheerful old lady is collecting the 2 Gold Crowns entrance fee. You hand over your Crowns (remember to mark these off on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and enter a large tent where the other competitors are stringing their bows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you have a bow, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you do not have a bow, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta>
- <title>142</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blade whistles towards your chest. You throw yourself to the deck&emdash;but are your reactions fast enough to save you from this deadly blade?</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus or Divination, deduct 2 from the number you have picked. If you possess a shield, deduct 3 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is now 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta>
- <title>143</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden less than a mile when the surface of the highway changes from cobblestones to flattened earth. There are no fresh tracks in this earth, so the riders cannot have left the village by this road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to ride back to the village, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to hide in the trees bordering the highway to wait and see if the riders show themselves, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to return to the junction and take the hill track, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta>
- <title>144</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dormitory is a long, narrow, low-ceilinged hall at the rear of the tavern, full of snoring mercenaries and the smell of stale sweat. You pick a straw mattress next to a window, braving the cold draught whipping through its shattered pane; at least this carries away the foul air.</p>
- <p>In the middle of the night you are woken by a bright light. A shooting star of sun-like brilliance arcs over the city, shedding a rainbow of colour over the drab dormitory. You watch as the star slowly disappears before settling down once more to your much needed rest. It seems as if you have only just closed your eyes when the loud and loathsome clang of the dormitory bell fills your ears.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="289" height="155" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="289" height="155" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>All awake! All awake! A new day dawns, my fine brave lads!</quote> The voice of the tavern-keeper is echoed by the groans of a hundred bleary-eyed soldiers, as they drag themselves coughing and wheezing from their beds.</p>
- <p>You dress, gather your equipment and collect your horse from the stable. However, it is not until you are studying the route to Brass Street that you discover that an item is missing from your Backpack; it was stolen during the night. Erase one Backpack Item of your choice from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before setting off for Brass Street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta>
- <title>145</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The survivors flee into the dark, leaving their leader and over half their number lying dead at your feet. Leaning down from the saddle, you snatch a pouch that hangs from the dead leader's belt. It contains 12 Gold Crowns and a Ruby Ring. You may keep the Crowns and the Ring. If you take the Ring, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which is to be carried in your pocket.</p>
- <p>You hear the crunch of boots on stone as a group of soldiers tramp up the street from the river, moving disdainfully through the crowds of people that have gathered to watch. Sheathing your blood-smeared weapon, you rein your horse about to take off along the darkening street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta>
- <title>146</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By noon, the hills lie far behind, and you catch your first sight of the snow-capped Ceners. To the south, nestling at the foot of this mountain range, is Amory. You are tired after your ride, but you know you must press on if you are to reach the town by nightfall. You reach a junction where a stone signpost indicates two directions: north-west to Soren and south to Amory. Both towns lie exactly 25 miles from this point. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you wish to continue your ride to Amory, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you wish to change direction and head for Soren, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta>
- <title>147</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street is narrow and crowded with all manner of fighting men: mercenaries from the south who have come to Varetta in search of employment. They fill the tiny alleyways that branch off from the main street, and the air is full with their noisy banter. The smell of food mingles with the odour of sweat and leather, and flickering lanterns swing in the chill night breeze. Nobody pays attention to you, and you follow the winding cobblestones without any hindrance until you reach a magnificent half-timbered building. Large bow windows display an eye-catching assortment of creatures of all shapes and sizes, stuffed or mounted on wooden plaques. A sign by the door reads:</p>
- <signpost>CHANDA&emdash;TAXIDERMIST</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to dismount and enter this fascinating shop, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to continue along the winding street, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta>
- <title>148</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>If you will not part with the bow, then perhaps you have something else of value that will persuade me to part with my horse?</quote> he says, shrewdly.</p>
- <p>Altan will accept either 2 Special Items or 20 Gold Crowns in exchange for his horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you agree to his proposal, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you cannot, or do not wish to, agree to his proposal, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta>
- <title>149</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>May I offer you some refreshment before you leave? I can see by the dust on your tunic that you have travelled far today.</quote> The man brings forward a silver tray on which stands a ruby glass decanter and two crystal goblets. He fills the goblets with wine and offers one to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to accept his generous offer, take the goblet and <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to decline his offer and leave the taxidermy, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta>
- <title>150</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse is hit and mortally wounded. It stumbles, and in the shrieking press of horses and men, you are barged aside and thrown over the stone parapet of the bridge. You hit the water head first and are swept away by the powerful current of the River Quarl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta>
- <title>151</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The narrow street begins its steep descent towards the wharves and huge warehouses that line the River Quarl. The sun is now below the horizon and lanterns are being lit in the twisting alleys and passages of the dingy town. From open alehouse doors the red glare of roaring fires colours the oily black cobblestones.</p>
- <p>You have been riding for barely a minute when the street ahead is blocked by a procession of men, advancing up the hill towards you. They are dressed in red cloaks with black hoods and carry large scarlet candles, which flicker in the chill evening breeze.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <quote>Are you a believer or an unbeliever?</quote>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="665"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="665"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Their leader is a tall man with hard grey eyes. He fixes you with a stare and slowly raises his hands; the procession halts. <quote>Are you a believer or an unbeliever?</quote> he cries, his voice as piercing as his stare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you have ever been to the buried temple of Maaken, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to answer <quote>believer</quote>, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to answer <quote>unbeliever</quote>, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta>
- <title>152</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to meet the captain in the apothecary in one hour's time before beginning your exploration of Luyen. Further along the street you notice a dusty shop window full of weapons. Above the door you see a sign.</p>
- <signpost>DEMICO'S WEAPONSHOP&emdash;All Weapons Bought & Sold</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to enter this second-hand weapons shop, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you would rather continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta>
- <title>153</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt screams through the air and hits you from the side, tearing a furrow of skin and muscle from your ribs before embedding itself in the side of the log hut. (You lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) Stifling a cry of pain, you stagger towards your horse. The warrior has discarded his empty crossbow and is now spurring his mount across the bridge in pursuit of his companions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you have a bow, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you do not have a bow and have to mount your horse and give chase, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta>
- <title>154</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man grasps the woman by the wrist and uncovers the arm cradled around her baby. Clasped between her fingers is a hat pin with which she pricks the baby's skin to make it cry.</p>
- <p><quote>You'll be beggin' in the streets yourself before dawn if you be taken in b'likes of her,</quote> he says.</p>
- <p>The woman pulls free from his grasp, curses, and disappears among the scruffy crowd of mercenaries wandering the street.</p>
- <p><quote>Who d'you serve?</quote> asks the man, his brutal face framed by a closely cropped red beard, <quote>or d'you come in search of a captain, eh?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to talk to this man, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to ignore him and ride off, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta>
- <title>155</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the arrow, but it narrowly misses its target and clatters harmlessly against the chapel wall. The creature is now upon you, and there is no time to draw another weapon.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Yawshath</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>You must fight the first round of combat with your bare hands (deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for this round only). At the start of the second round, you may draw a weapon (if you have one), and fight the creature normally. If you survive 4 rounds of combat, you can evade the Yawshath by escaping through the archway by which you entered the chapel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you survive 4 rounds of combat and wish to evade, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta>
- <title>156</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only brute force will break the seal of encrusted filth and open the door.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Sewer Door</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="resistance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>To break open the door, you should follow the normal combat rules. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose during this <quote>combat</quote> represent the fatigue you suffer as you hack and batter the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to cease <quote>combat</quote> at any time and continue along the sewer, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you reduce the door's resistance (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to 0, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta>
- <title>157</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The food tastes even better than it smells (restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point). If you wish, you may also take enough bread for up to 2 Meals. Remember to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>You are about to walk around the counter to examine the back room when you hear a faint cry for help. It is Cyrilus&emdash;he is in trouble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317"><link-text>Turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta>
- <title>158</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage leads to a vaulted cellar, as cold and as silent as a tomb. Gwynian talks with his brothers who then hurry off towards a distant portal. As they disappear into the dark, he returns to your side, his face sombre but composed.</p>
- <p><quote>The Lorestone of Varetta is hidden in the crypt of the cathedral of Tekaro. This key will unlock the tomb in which it lies.</quote> He produces a Silver Key from his sleeve and gives it to you.</p>
- <p><quote>My brothers will provide a swift horse for your journey. When the observatory clock strikes midnight, enter the portal and follow the passage to the end. It passes beneath the city wall, and your horse will be waiting where the passage comes to the surface. You are welcome to take any Items you require from this cellar that may be of use to you on your quest. May the gods protect you, Lone Wolf.</quote> You nod your thanks and watch as Gwynian disappears into the portal.</p>
- <p>The cellar is well stocked with provisions and you find the following Items that could be of use on your journey to Tekaro:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Brass Whistle</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Together with the Silver Key that Gwynian gave you (mark this as a Special Item that you keep in your pocket), you collect together all the Items you wish to keep and settle down for the long wait till midnight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta>
- <title>159</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You insult us, stranger,</quote> hisses the scar-faced man as he springs to his feet. Suddenly, the noisy hall becomes as silent as the grave: all eyes are on you. Some merchants to your left hurriedly move away as the two other warriors kick over their table and draw their swords.</p>
- <p><quote>Strike!</quote> they shout and attack. You must fight all three as one enemy. You cannot evade combat or make use of a bow.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Varettian Mercenaries</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta>
- <title>160</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Grabbing hold of the door, you slam it shut as hard as you can. The youth is unprepared, and the door catches him squarely in the face somersaulting him backwards over a table and chair. As the door rebounds open again, you see him sprawled flat on his back, unconscious, with a huge lump beginning to swell in the centre of his forehead.</p>
- <p>You pick up a square of blue card and notice that it is stamped with today's date. This will grant you access to the town of Amory, but only for today. You pocket the Cess (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and leave before the youth comes to his senses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta>
- <title>161</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you drop your belt pouch into the palm of the robber, you feel an agonizing pain tear through your side.</p>
- <p><quote>Did you think we would let you live to identify us?</quote> sneers the robber, but his voice fades as you collapse to the floor. The robbers melt away into the crowd, and by the time your murder has been discovered, they are safely hiding in another part of the vast city.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta>
- <title>162</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively, you dive and roll, drawing your weapon as you rise again to your feet. Your lightning-fast reactions have saved you from the clutches of a shambling, blunt-nosed monster that preys on unwary pilgrims to this spa. However, it is not deterred, and with a hideous snickering caw, its feral eyes glowing with hatred, it shuffles hungrily towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you have a bow, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you do not have a bow, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta>
- <title>163</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Twenty yards out from the bank you hear a cry go up: <quote>Stop that man!</quote> The Ogrons drop their tools and scurry to the water's edge. Some of them have bows which they hurriedly load and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta>
- <title>164</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai skill makes you particularly alert to the deadly missile screaming towards your chest&emdash;suddenly everything seems to be happening in slow motion. You pull away from the bolt just in time, and the quarrel merely grazes your shoulder. (You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) You see your attacker hurl the crossbow to the ground. From within the closed helmet of black steel a voice shouts out: <quote>Die Northlander!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>From within the closed helm of black steel<br/>a voice shouts out <quote>Die Northlander!</quote>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="672"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="672"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The warrior charges out of the Denka Gate with an axe held high in his hand. You cannot avoid him and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Armoured Assassin</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Due to the speed of this attack, you cannot make use of a bow. However, if you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, you may add 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta>
- <title>165</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Certainly, sir. We of the guild of city criers are only too pleased to be of service,</quote> says the Kloon, waddling over to the bookshelves. He scampers to the top and removes a slim map from between a stack of papers before scuttling back down and depositing it at your feet.</p>
- <p><quote>That will be 5 Gold Crowns, sir,</quote> he says, in a firm but polite tone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to pay the Kloon for the Map of Varetta, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you cannot or do not wish to pay him, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta>
- <title>166</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Valiantly your horse attempts to clear the high-sided wagon, but the long day's ride has taken its toll. Suddenly you are thrown forward in the saddle as its forelegs crash against the wagon's rail. You cling desperately to the reins as your terrified horse scatters the cargo and then lands with a tremendous crash on the cobblestoned street. You manage to regain control and spur her along the winding street that leads away from the square. Only when the curses of the town guard can no longer be heard do you rein in your terrified and exhausted mare and take stock of her injuries. The forelegs are bruised, but the skin is not broken. With a good night's rest she should be perfectly all right by morning.</p>
- <p>As you remount, you discover to your dismay that the flap of your Backpack is unbuckled. A quick check reveals that two items are missing, which fell from your pack during the jump. Erase any two Backpack Items from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta>
- <title>167</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Loud and raucous laughter greets your tired ears as you enter the Stornside Tavern. A motley throng of drinkers, over-dressed and over-armed, prop up the bar along the back wall. Suddenly a voice calls out to you, and you raise your weary eyes. It is the captain, the mercenary leader you met at the Inn of the Crossed Swords.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="249" height="177" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="249" height="177" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Well met, my friend,</quote> he cries and slaps you enthusiastically on the shoulder. <quote>So you've changed your mind. You have come to join my band of fearless fighters.</quote> Before you have a chance to reply, a foaming tankard is thrust into your hand.</p>
- <p><quote>To the battle and a full purse!</quote> he shouts, and his toast is echoed by a score of drunken voices.</p>
- <p>The captain and his men are bound for Eula aboard the riverboat that leaves at midnight. If you sail with them he will pay for your passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you wish to sail with the captain at midnight, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to make your own way to Tekaro by road, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta>
- <title>168</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is nearly dark when you catch sight of a tavern on the road ahead. Two guttering torches set into rusty brackets illuminate the sign nailed above the door:</p>
- <signpost>THE HALFWAY INN</signpost>
- <p>You recognize the name of the tavern that Cyrilus spoke of this morning, and it grieves you that he is not here to accompany you. Distant thunder rumbles through the hills as you stable your horse and enter the welcoming warmth of the taproom. The tavern is alive with the chatter of merchants, the clink of glasses and the crackle of a blazing fire. The centre of the room is dominated by a small stage on which a conjurer is performing his tricks to the delight of the customers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to stand and watch the conjurer, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to enquire about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta>
- <title>169</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron door is unlocked, but you discover to your horror that the hinges are so badly rusted that the door will not move an inch. Suddenly, the Yawshath appears at the top of the stone staircase, snickering and gibbering horribly. It fixes you with its red eyes and prepares to pounce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire (that is, you possess the Magnakai Disciplines of Weaponmastery and Huntmastery), <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you do not possess these skills and wish to prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you would rather turn and run deeper into the ruins, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta>
- <title>170</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The riverboat is still rocking violently from the collision, throwing you off balance. You raise an arrow, take aim at the man's chest and try to anticipate the shift of the deck as you prepare to fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, add 3 to your score. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 1 to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If your total is now 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If it is now 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta>
- <title>171</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is freezing cold. It saps your strength, and you find it increasingly harder to swim against the strong converging river currents. Eventually, you reach the rocky bank and stagger ashore near the sewer outfall. Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to the cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta>
- <title>172</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You choose a seat near the corner: one that is laid for dinner and offers a clear view of the hall. A serving girl soon appears carrying a platter laden with roasted meat, and she proceeds to stack a generous helping on your plate.</p>
- <p><quote>Two Gold Crowns, if you please, sir,</quote> she says, presenting an open hand bloodied by the food.</p>
- <p>You pay (remember to deduct the Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and settle down to your feast. While you are eating, you are approached by the innkeeper. He is a fat, oily individual with small, piggish eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>My lad tells me that he's tended to your mare&emdash;she's in good 'ands 'ere&emdash;the best stables in all o' Quarlen.</quote> The man shifts nervously from one foot to the other, as if he is uncomfortable in your presence. <quote>You'll be wantin' a room I take it?</quote></p>
- <p>You finish a mouthful of food before nodding your reply. <quote>You're in luck, my friend,</quote> he answers, obviously relieved that you have turned out to be a paying guest. <quote>We 'ave one room left&emdash;Room 17.</quote></p>
- <p>He produces a plain iron key from his apron pocket and sets it down beside your plate. <quote>That'll be 3 Gold Crowns, sir&emdash;in advance.</quote> You pay the innkeeper and slip the key into your pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219"><link-text>Turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta>
- <title>173</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that the man's clothes and hair are streaked with blood. Your initial instinct is to use your Magnakai skill to heal his wounds, but as he reaches the church gate you suddenly realize that he is not wounded at all. The red stains are berry juice; his injuries are fake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to challenge him, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to gallop away from the church as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta>
- <title>174</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cry of pained surprise escapes from between your clenched teeth as the bolt tears both the skin and muscle from your ribs (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). However, your sheer strength of will, heightened by your Kai training and discipline, helps you to overcome the shock of impact and remain upright in the saddle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you are still alive after this attack, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta>
- <title>175</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the observatory clock strikes twelve, you are poised and ready to enter the portal. You follow a dry stone passageway until you arrive at an iron door. It opens with a grating squeal and a gust of damp, earthy air, mixed with a strange sweetness, billows out. Before you, a narrow stone stairway twists away into the darkness. You are forced to tread carefully on the green and slippery steps. At the bottom of the stairs a rough-hewn tunnel disappears to the west. You press on and eventually arrive at another iron door. Gwynian has kept his word, for beyond the door awaits a fine liver chestnut mare, saddled and ready to ride.</p>
- <p>You are in a small copse close to a highway junction. In the light of the moon you can see a signpost that indicates two destinations&emdash;Amory and Soren. Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> before deciding which way to go.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you decide to take the highway to Amory, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you decide to take the highway to Soren, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta>
- <title>176</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decline the offer and go in search of some other means of finding Cyrilus. The village stables are locked and guarded, but at the rear of the blacksmithy you discover just what you are looking for. A young stallion is pacing the paddock, its saddle and blanket slung over the gate. At first he is wary of your approach, but he soon senses that you mean no harm and you have no difficulty in preparing him for the ride. Once clear of the paddock, you canter around the blacksmithy and on to the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta>
- <title>177</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Ah! You're in luck, stranger. The dice favour you tonight.</quote> The man staggers drunkenly to his feet and points to an alley in the middle distance where a doorway is just visible in the shadows. <quote>The city criers live there. They'll tell you the way to Brass Street.</quote></p>
- <p>You nod your thanks and spur your horse along the street towards the darkened doorway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta>
- <title>178</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior gallops off, his cloak billowing from his shoulders like huge black wings as his horse speeds across the bridge. You draw an arrow to your lips and take careful aim&emdash;you will have no second chance.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If your total score is now 7 or below, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If your total score is now 8 or above, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta>
- <title>179</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>They will not let you touch any of the pontoons. If any go missing they will each receive 100 lashes as punishment for their negligence. They keep a watchful eye on you until you leave the camp. As it is now impossible to take one of the pontoons, you resign yourself to a long, cold swim.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171"><link-text>Turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta>
- <title>180</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trembling with pain and fury, the wounded lordling staggers back towards the door. <quote>I shall have your life for this&emdash;mark my words,</quote> he cries.</p>
- <p>The mocking cheers of the crowd echo in his wake as he turns and disappears into the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta>
- <title>181</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You learn that the man's name is Redbeard and that he hails from Soren, a town to the west of Varetta. He is sergeant-at-arms to a captain of mercenaries and has recently returned from battle against the Magadorians. He offers to take you to meet his captain who, he says, is the best soldier he has ever had the good fortune to serve under.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to accept his offer, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to decline his offer, bid him farewell and continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta>
- <title>182</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck and weave as you race through the undergrowth. A charge of crackling power strikes a branch above your head; it narrowly misses you as it falls in a blazing heap by your side. You sidestep in time to avoid another charge which tears a hole in a tree trunk large enough to rest your head. You reach your horse and take off along the highway at a gallop, thankful to be alive. You have witnessed a secret ritual of the Cener Druids and survived the encounter&emdash;few can boast as much!</p>
- <choice idref="sect102"><link-text>Turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta>
- <title>183</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A loud cheer shatters the silence as Altan's winning arrow hits the target. The villagers are thrilled to have witnessed such an exciting tournament and surge across the field, eager to offer Altan their praise and congratulations. As the tall woodsman disappears from view amid the teeming crowd, you take the opportunity to slip away unnoticed.</p>
- <p>If you have used a borrowed bow for the tournament, you must return it to the tent before making your way back to Cyrilus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta>
- <title>184</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dagger shaves a lock of hair from your head before sinking inches deep into the wooden parapet rail. The shock of your swift move unnerves the pirate, and he is off balance when you leap to your feet and attack. Before he knows what has hit him, he is tumbling over the side into the cold deep waters of the Storn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta>
- <title>185</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having hitched your horse to a rail, you climb the crooked steps leading to the door of the ale hut. Cyrilus is announcing his arrival by rapping on the Denka Gate with his staff and shouting for his brother to open up. You smile at his growing impatience as he hammers at the gate; if his brother is anything like Cyrilus, he is probably fast asleep.</p>
- <p>Inside, the hut looks deserted, but as you approach the bar you find a man slouched on a low stool, half-asleep with a tankard in his hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you wish to wake him, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to draw some ale from a cask on the bar, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta>
- <title>186</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate your Magnakai Discipline on agitating the particles of dirt that wedge the door shut. Gradually the stone begins to vibrate, and cracks appear around the jamb as the dirt begins to crumble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta>
- <title>187</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Twisting aside at the last moment, you manage to avoid one deadly pike head but cannot dodge the other. It rips into your tunic and scrapes your flesh (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Your anger rises and you fight to free your weapon, which has become entangled in the straps of your saddle. The guards see that you are trapped and push forward before you have a chance to retaliate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta>
- <title>188</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your immediate peril stops you dwelling too much on the reason why these riders should try to abduct Cyrilus. However, it does occur to you that he is neither wealthy nor powerful and so a poor prospect for a rich ransom.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>On a charger as black as midnight<br/>sits a scar-faced young man</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="625"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="625"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As you reach the bottom of the wooded crag, a stone church and graveyard loom into view at a point where the highway turns sharply to the west. Blocking the road, on a charger as black as midnight, sits a scar-faced young man. His eyes, set in a white and disfigured face, burn with a cold dark glow. You recognize him immediately. It is Roark, the lordling you defeated at the Barrel Bridge Tavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you possess a Silver Brooch, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta>
- <title>189</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The thin-faced merchant bids you sit at his table, his shrewd eyes narrowing at the thought of a new and profitable deal. You tell him that you require some information and may be willing to pay for it if the price is right. He asks the nature of this information, but when you ask for the directions to Brass Street, his business-like mood suddenly changes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta>
- <title>190</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Crazed with hatred and rage, the Yawshath springs from the top of the mound of rubble and dives straight for you. Its frenzy has made it blind to the peril of the precipice and, as you leap aside, it hurtles past and disappears into the void. Seconds later you hear a shriek as it crashes into the rocks hundreds of feet below.</p>
- <p>Shaken, but thankful to be alive, you return to the chapel and fill your glass jar with Taunor Water (there is enough spa water to restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You may drink the Water now or place it in your Backpack for future use.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to make a search of the chapel, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you decide to return to Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta>
- <title>191</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are tired after your long night's ride, but you know you must press on if you are to reach the town of Soren by nightfall. You come to a shallow stream, which crosses the highway, and here you stop briefly at a ford to wash and rest. You must also now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Beside the ford stands a signpost pointing to the west:</p>
- <signpost>SOREN&emdash;25 MILES</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect102"><link-text>Turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta>
- <title>192</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Splashing through ankle-deep slime, you suddenly catch sight of two glowing pinpoints of red light in the darkness ahead. They grow larger and brighter and suddenly you realize the awful truth&emdash;there are two Yawshaths. Their hideous laughter builds to a deafening climax as they close in for the kill. Unwittingly, you have entered their lair and now they have you trapped.</p>
- <p>You fight valiantly but the creatures finally overwhelm you in the dark and fetid confines of the passage. You are torn limb from limb, with no one to hear your cries for help.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here in the dungeons of Castle Taunor.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta>
- <title>193</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kloon begins to wail as you dispatch his vicious watchdog. With scarlet tears streaming from his crimson eyes, he scampers out of the room and bolts the door. After wiping the blood from your hands, you pick up the Map of Varetta and hurry out of the room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta>
- <title>194</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling mob scream like men possessed as they hack and slash at your unarmoured legs. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight, for it enables you to command your horse to attack with its hooves.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Acolytes of Vashna</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to evade combat at any time, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta>
- <title>195</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, you sense that you are in grave peril, and you listen carefully at the keyhole to determine what is being said by the preacher.</p>
- <p><quote>&lellips;and so I beseech you, my brothers, do not listen to Gwynian's foolish and dangerous theory. The star that shone in the night is a warning to us to guard our knowledge, to keep safe the secret of the Lorestone. We must stop all those who would use its power for their own wicked ends.</quote></p>
- <p>The preacher's words are answered by loud chanting: <quote>Keep the secret, keep the secret, keep the secret!</quote></p>
- <p>The sound of a key in the lock makes you start. The meeting has come to an end, and the congregation are preparing to leave. Quickly, you sprint away and take cover in a darkened doorway. The brown-robed men pour out of the temple and disperse, but a small group are heading towards your hiding place; if you stay where you are you will be seen for sure. Without a second thought, you push open the door and enter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta>
- <title>196</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is only a matter of minutes before the riders appear. They ride in single file with the unconscious wizard in tow behind the last man's horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have a bow and want to ambush them as they ride past your hiding place, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to attack the last rider and try to recapture Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to let them pass and then follow them, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta>
- <title>197</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are almost out of bowshot when an arrow gashes your calf (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and thuds into the side of the pontoon. You bite your lip and stifle your urge to scream, for you are now within range of the city's archers. As soon as the pontoon grounds on the bank, you slip ashore and creep across the rocks towards the sewer outfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta>
- <title>198</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is only enough time for you to fire one shot before the monster is upon you; you cannot afford to miss. To stop the creature dead in its tracks, you need to hit a vital organ, but in the gloom of this ruined chapel it is difficult to see your target clearly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to take aim at the creature's eyes, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to take aim at its heart, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to take aim at its legs, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta>
- <title>199</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having removed a bunch of flowers from the ear of a startled merchant and a clucking hen from the petticoat of the merchants wife, the flamboyantly dressed conjurer calls for silence from his cheering audience before announcing his next trick. Two children shuffle on to the stage, their bodies and faces completely hidden by long black gowns that are tied at their foreheads. Only their hair, blond and black is visible.</p>
- <p><quote>I'm a boy,</quote> says the one with black hair.</p>
- <p><quote>I'm a girl,</quote> says the one with blond hair, the voice identical to the first.</p>
- <p>The conjurer steps forward and says that they are a boy and a girl but at least one of them is lying. He asks which is which and invites the audience to bet on the answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to bet on this conundrum, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you do not wish to gamble and would rather approach the bar and enquire about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta>
- <title>200</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old stone door creaks slowly open, and as the dust settles, you find yourself staring into the crypt of Tekaro Cathedral. Stepping into the chill, stale air, your heart begins to pound in your chest; the Lorestone is here&emdash;you can feel it.</p>
- <p>Beams of ashen moonlight filter into the crypt, illuminating a line of sombre granite tombs that lie like sleeping giants under the earth. Clutching the Silver Key, you examine them one by one for the lock that guards the legendary Lorestone.</p>
- <p>You find the lock and insert the key but you are suddenly distracted, on the brink of discovery, by the creature that is advancing through the sewer door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334"><link-text>Turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta>
- <title>201</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect201-1" id="sect201-1-foot">
- <p>You must still win the combat before <a idref="sect87">turning to 87</a> if the fight lasts longer than three rounds.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant orders his men to stand back&emdash;he is confident that he can defeat you unaided and is eager to show off his fighting prowess. A smile of expectant triumph curls his scarred lips as he raises his spear and shield. You may fight this combat with any weapon except a bow.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Town Sergeant</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you win and the combat lasts 3 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If the combat lasts longer than 3 rounds, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.<a class="footnote" idref="sect201-1-foot" id="sect201-1"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta>
- <title>202</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is small, shabby and bare except for the battered straw mattress and threadbare carpet covering the floor. You lock the door and settle down to sleep, using your Backpack as a pillow and your cloak as a blanket. In the middle of the night you are woken by a bright light. A shooting star of sun-like brilliance arcs over the city, shedding a rainbow of colour across your drab surroundings. You watch the star as it slowly disappears before settling down once more to your much needed rest. It seems as if you have only just closed your eyes when the loud and loathsome clang of the tavern bell fills your ears.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="289" height="155" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="289" height="155" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>All awake, all awake! A new day dawns my fine brave lads!</quote> As the voice of the tavern-keeper echoes through the inn, you dress, gather your equipment and then collect your horse from the stable.</p>
- <p>Your rest restores 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. Make the necessary change to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before setting off on your search for Brass Street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta>
- <title>203</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath you wait for the enemy to pass. As the last man rides into view, you break cover and attack him with deadly efficiency. He tries to raise a shield to block your blow but cannot react in time to save his life. As he tumbles to the ground, you cut the reins from his saddle and take off along the highway with the unconscious wizard in tow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta>
- <title>204</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prince Ewevin holds a conference of war. An hour passes before the captain returns to the company, and his news is greeted with mixed feelings by his travel-weary men.</p>
- <p><quote>We ride into battle tonight,</quote> he says, his voice firm and unwavering. <quote>We are to lead an attack across the Tekaro Bridge to break the city gate, which is greatly weakened at the moment. We must attack tonight if the enemy are to be prevented from making good their repairs.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="244" height="164" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="244" height="164" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Many of his men, battle-hardened veterans of countless wars, cannot hide their fear that the attack is suicidal. The gate is heavily defended by archers and cannot be taken without a great loss of life.</p>
- <p><quote>Each man will be paid a thousand crowns,</quote> says the captain, hoping to change their minds with the promise of gold, but few are impressed; what use is gold to them if they are killed in the assault? <quote>Those who wish to fight can stay by my side,</quote> he bellows, his steel-blue eyes blazing with anger. <quote>Those who will not fight can go.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to stay with the captain and assault the city gate, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you decide to leave, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta>
- <title>205</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Huntmastery enables you to identify hidden weaknesses in both the Jakan and the Kalte bone bow. If you were to choose either of these weapons, your chances of success would be greatly reduced. Forewarned by your Magnakai skill, you make the best choice: the Durenese hunting bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta>
- <title>206</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that potential danger lies within the copse and that the chanting is part of a sacrificial ceremony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to investigate the ceremony, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you wish to avoid it and continue along the highway to Soren, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta>
- <title>207</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath, you manoeuvre the noose around the head of the warhammer. It takes over five minutes to secure the rope and retrieve the weapon.</p>
- <p>Close examination of your find reveals it to be a very fine weapon, wrought of a metal called bronin, which looks identical to newly cast bronze but, unlike regular alloys of copper and tin, will not tarnish with use or age.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Bronin Warhammer, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Weapon. When you use it in combat it will add 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total. Satisfied that nothing else of value has been overlooked, you leave the chapel and return to Cyrilus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta>
- <title>208</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Discipline reveals the man's hiding place&emdash;he is crouching behind a worktable to your right. Suddenly, he jumps up and hurls a glass flask at your face, but forewarned by your Magnakai skill, you are prepared for this ambush. You duck and the flask whistles overhead to smash against the far wall. A bubbling hiss fills the air as the contents of the flask corrode and dissolve the plaster. With a flurry of vile curses, the man unsheathes a rapier and attacks.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Chanda the Taxidermist</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to evade combat at any time by running from the shop, mounting your horse and galloping away, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta>
- <title>209</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trembling with fear, you draw the bowstring and fire. The arrow glances off its armoured head and shatters against the crypt wall. There is no time for a second shot. You discard your bow and prepare for close combat as the creature moves in to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta>
- <title>210</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than a mile from the village, the road descends into a narrow valley where a castle, part of which has fallen into ruin, is set on a rock shelf beneath a mossy precipice. <quote>Castle Taunor,</quote> says Cyrilus, shielding his eyes from the glare of the afternoon sun. <quote>It's a place of pilgrimage for many people; the water from its spa has great healing properties.</quote> He leans forward, removes a small glass jar from his saddlebag and offers it to you. <quote>Taunor Water could be useful to a warrior such as you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to take the glass jar and collect some Taunor Water, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you choose to decline Cyrilus' suggestion and continue your journey to Varetta, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta>
- <title>211</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain is an imposing man, tall, muscular, with a strong-jawed face, unmarked by battle or disease. His blond hair is cropped close to his head, and likewise, his beard and moustache are trimmed close to his tanned skin. You are invited to join his company, and as you drink your ale, you listen to their proud talk of war, of victories, of loot and wages&emdash;but never of defeat.</p>
- <p>The captain and his men have grown tired of the war in the north. Prince Janveal of Helm is close to ruin, having sold all he owns to pay for a war against Baron Maghao of Karkaste that he cannot hope to win. The prince's troops are demoralized and his mercenaries desert him at the first opportunity. You learn that the captain is recruiting men for a campaign in the south. The war between Salony and Slovia has reached boiling point, and there is much gold to be had in the service of the Salonese Prince Ewevin while he besieges the city of Tekaro.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="330" height="80" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="330" height="80" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You have the mien of a skilful warrior,</quote> says the captain, his steel-blue eyes cold and unblinking. <quote>Why not join my company? I have need of fighters, and I pay with gold, not promises. We leave for Tekaro at dawn&emdash;will you ride with us?</quote></p>
- <p>Politely you refuse the captain's offer, saying that you have come to Varetta on other business.</p>
- <p><quote>What business is there for a warrior other than war?</quote> retorts the captain, to the raucous delight of his men. You finish your ale and bid the captain and his company goodnight.</p>
- <p><quote>If you change your mind, join us at Soren. We sail the river from there in two days' time.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you have a Map of Varetta, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta>
- <title>212</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep your side of the bargain. (Remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.) In exchange, he hands over the reins of his horse. <quote>Good luck, Northlander,</quote> he says, as you climb into the saddle. <quote>I hope you find your companion. He is a lucky man to have a friend such as you.</quote></p>
- <p>You shout a farewell as you spur your new horse to the gallop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta>
- <title>213</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the man through a curtained archway to a high-vaulted chamber that reeks with the pungent smell of preservatives and dead bodies. Several carcasses of exotic animals hang from hooks in the ceiling, and dissected heads destined for trophy plaques are laid on the large workbenches.</p>
- <p>The man opens an ornate rosewood chest and produces a silver tray on which stands a ruby glass decanter and two crystal goblets. He fills the goblets with wine and offers one to you, saying that the wine will help you forget the unpleasant smell of the workshop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to accept his gracious offer, take the goblet and <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to decline his offer and leave the taxidermy, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta>
- <title>214</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kalte hunting bow is constructed from many strips of bone, glued and bonded together with layers of sinew. It is an ideal weapon for hunting baknar or kalkoth in the icy wastes of Kalte, but as a target bow in the warm climate of the Stornlands it is a very poor choice. When you enter the tournament, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of the contest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">To begin the tournament, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta>
- <title>215</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has the pirate dropped dead at your feet than three more of his snarling comrades press forward to avenge his death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>River Pirates</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to evade combat after 2 rounds, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta>
- <title>216</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate all your powers of Curing, transmitting the warmth created by your Magnakai skill through your hands into the shattered body of the magician. His frail shoulders tremble as he forces himself to whisper once more: <quote>Brass street&ellips; Varetta&ellips; find Gwynian the sage&ellips; he will help&ellips; help your quest&emdash;</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect46"><link-text>Turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta>
- <title>217</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you clamber across the broken stones, but your hopes of escape are soon dashed when you see the terrifying drop that awaits you on the other side of the castle wall. Reluctantly, you turn to face your pursuer. With only the yawning precipice behind, you have no choice but to stand and face the monster again. Within seconds it appears, snarling and growling horribly as it prepares to tear you limb from limb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you wish to leap aside to avoid the Yawshath's attack, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to stand your ground and strike it as it attacks, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta>
- <title>218</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As wave after wave of horses thunder across the bridge, you are trampled into the ground.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta>
- <title>219</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, there is a mighty crash as the hall door is slammed shut. Into the tavern strides a black-browed young lordling, wearing a flamboyant costume of ebony and gold. He makes ceremonious display of removing his velvet cloak and pompously demands food and wine, and it takes three serving girls and the innkeeper to see to his wishes. His manner is so insulting that you are not surprised to see the many scars that disfigure his young face. He must be continually provoking fights and duels.</p>
- <p>The lordling chooses to seat himself at a table already occupied by a small, thin, inoffensive old man. Within seconds there is a thunderous outburst of foul language. The lordling grabs the old man by the throat, lifts him one-handedly from his seat and hurls him to the floor. <quote>You snivelling toad, how dare you sit with me!</quote> he bellows.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The lordling kicks back his chair<br/>and towers over the wretch</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="673"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="673"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Bewildered and frightened, the little man fumbles an apology, but to no avail. The lordling kicks back his chair and towers over the wretch, his hand clasped around the hilt of his sword. The tavern crowd view the scene with relish, like spectators at a Vassagonian arena, for the lordling clearly intends to kill the old man.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you possess a bow, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you do not possess a bow, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta>
- <title>220</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The weather-worn plaque bolted to the base of the statue says that this is a true likeness of Vynar Jupe who led a band of robbers that preyed on travellers, especially merchants. His many crimes, including murder, did not prevent him from becoming popular, for he was resourceful and daring, and never plundered the inhabitants of this hamlet, where he himself was born. His exploits, and those of a score of his gang, were ended by the executioner's axe after trial at Amory.</p>
- <p>There is a slit in the belly of the statue through which Gold Crowns can be dropped. The plaque goes on to say that anyone who pays homage to the statue of Vynar Jupe will be protected by his spirit from robbers and highwaymen.</p>
- <p>If you wish to make a donation, place some Gold Crowns into the statue of Vynar Jupe before leaving the hamlet. (Remember to erase however many Gold Crowns you wish to place in the statue from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect73"><link-text>Turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta>
- <title>221</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldier removes a spluttering torch from a bracket on the wall and returns to your side. Holding the torch high, he casts his eye over you and your horse and rubs his stubbly chin.</p>
- <p><quote>You come from Varetta or Soren? Long ride either way you must be tired. In you go, but in the future be sure to get a cess&emdash;some o' my brother-guards ain't so understanding.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the guard and ride in through the town gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta>
- <title>222</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monster dives straight for you from the top of the stairs. You hold your ground and land a well-timed and deadly accurate blow, which opens a gaping wound in the creature's neck, killing it instantly. However, the strength of your blow is not enough to turn its heavy body aside and you cannot avoid being crushed beneath the Yawshath as it hits the flagstones. You lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta>
- <title>223</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you have lost your bet. The conjurer stated that at least one of the children was lying, and if one was lying the other could not have been telling the truth. The answer is that both children lied.</p>
- <p>Erase the Gold Crowns you staked on the conundrum from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before approaching the bar and enquiring about a room for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta>
- <title>224</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hell's teeth!</quote> cries the captain. <quote>Have we run aground?</quote></p>
- <p>As the words leave his lips, a grapnel and rope drop from the sky and bite into the ship's rail. More follow and, through the mist, you can make out the shapes of longboats approaching.</p>
- <p><quote>River pirates!</quote> shouts the helmsman. <quote>Prepare to repel boarders.</quote></p>
- <p>Further along the deck, one of the captain's men is felled by a thrown knife. His comrades rush to his aid, but by now the river pirates are pouring over the side and he is trampled underfoot.</p>
- <p><quote>Battle order!</quote> bellows the captain and immediately his men respond, linking shields and holding their ground. A swarm of grim-faced pirates are boarding close by. One of their number, a lean man with only one ear and a split nose, smiles at you with anticipation, his lips drawn back from his teeth and his eyes wide with excitement. He is obviously relishing the thought of ending your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to prepare for combat by other means, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta>
- <title>225</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rein in your horse beneath the wide stone archway of the south gate. From an arrow slit in the wall echoes a harsh voice: <quote>Rider, show your pass!</quote></p>
- <p>There is the dull clunk of a bolt being drawn and two swarthy guards dressed in chainmail appear. They eye you suspiciously and repeat the demand to see a pass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to tell them that you do not have a pass, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you want to try to ride past them and through the open town gate, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you want to attempt to bribe them to let you pass, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta>
- <title>226</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push against the great doors but they will not open&emdash;they are locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to knock on the temple doors, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you decide to ignore the temple and enter the observatory, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you would rather follow a corridor that runs alongside the temple, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta>
- <title>227</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>They have covered only a few hundred yards when the last rider turns to check on Cyrilus who is beginning to slip from his saddle. You pull off the highway to try to hide, but you are seen entering the trees and a shout rings out: <quote>He's there!</quote> The rumble of hooves warns you that the riders are returning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have a bow and wish to open fire as they rush past, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you would rather prepare to fight by other means, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta>
- <title>228</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The red wine looks and smells delicious. The man must hold you in high esteem, for wine as good as this is rare and expensive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you do not have this skill, drink the wine and <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta>
- <title>229</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ogrons are poor archers, and in the gathering gloom they fail to drop an arrow within ten feet of you. You paddle across to the far side and as soon as the pontoon grounds on the bank, you slip ashore and creep across the rocks to the sewer outfall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta>
- <title>230</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>A toast to our gallant friend,</quote> cries the soldier with the pock-marked face. <quote>Honour in battle!</quote> shouts the red-haired man to his left. <quote>And a rich purse for the victor,</quote> retorts the other. They laugh heartily and raise the flagons to their lips. Their smiling faces are completely hidden by the jugs as they drink their fill. A full minute of silence passes before the three jugs are slammed to the table, emptied of ale.</p>
- <p>The strong beer soon dissolves any guardedness, and they become very talkative about themselves. You take this opportunity to ask them what they know of the Lorestone of Varetta.</p>
- <p><quote>Legend,</quote> belches the red-head, <quote>myth or legend.</quote> <quote>Not so,</quote> interrupts Pock-face. <quote>It's real enough, but it was lost years ago. The Lorestone is magical&emdash;it holds a power that can turn an ordinary man into a king.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="372" height="133" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="372" height="133" />
- </illustration>
- <p>On hearing this, the other soldiers snigger, but Pock-face ignores them and continues. <quote>The Lorestone was once set into the throne of Lyris, at the Tower of the King in Varetta. Hundreds of years ago, during the War of the Lorestone, it was stolen by a Salonese prince called Kaskor. He set the stone upon a gold sceptre and used it in battle to inspire his followers. He believed that it made him invulnerable, but it was not so. He was killed in a battle on board his royal barge at Rhem, and the Lorestone was lost when it fell from his hand into the depths of the River Storn. However, that is not the end of the story. There are many tales about the sceptre having been found, but on the whole they have turned out to be fake or merely fanciful. The legend says whoever wields the Lorestone is the rightful ruler of all the Stornlands. For this reason above all others, the Lorestone is sought by many evil or unscrupulous men to further their dreams of power. If you wish to know more, you should go to Varetta. There are many learned men who have devoted their lives to the study of the Lorestone&emdash;the scholars and sages of Brass Street&emdash;they are the people to help you!</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the soldier for his help and take your leave of the company.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you now wish to order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you decide to go to the bar and enquire about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta>
- <title>231</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You help the captain to carry his purchases, which fill two large wooden boxes. As you stagger from the apothecary, he tells you he is anxious to return to the boat without delay. His men are good soldiers but poor sailors&emdash;he fears that without his watchful eye and stern command they will forget their work and drink themselves into a stupor. His fears are unfounded, for upon your return to the quay the Kazonara is fitted out and ready to sail.</p>
- <p><quote>Cast off,</quote> booms the captain, enjoying the novelty of his new riverboat command. <quote>We'll make Rhem by nightfall.</quote> The captain is as good as his word. As dusk settles over the Storn, you sail into the horseshoe harbour at Rhem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta>
- <title>232</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect232-1" id="sect232-1-foot">
- <p>You should deduct the Meal from your Backpack immediately if you decide to head to your room. The ensuing sections will make it clear why this is.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper is a fat, oily individual with small, piggish eyes and a crooked smile. A grimy cloth hangs by a cord from his wrist, which he uses to wipe the bar. He seems unconcerned that the filthy rag does little but smear grease further across the counter.</p>
- <p><quote>You are in luck, my friend,</quote> he says, rummaging through the pockets of his striped apron. <quote>We have one room left&emdash;room 17.</quote> He produces a plain iron key and sets it down upon the bar. <quote>Three Gold Crowns&emdash;in advance.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>
- <quote>You're in luck, my friend, we have one room left</quote>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="678"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="678"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You pay the innkeeper (remember to erase the Gold Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and slip the key into your pocket. You are contemplating an early night when your rumbling stomach reminds you that you need to eat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to take a seat and order some food, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you decide to eat a Meal (from your Backpack) in the privacy of your room, you can head towards the stairs by <link-text>turning to 219</link-text>.<a class="footnote" idref="sect232-1-foot" id="sect232-1"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta>
- <title>233</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instantly, you recognize the old man who stands before you now, calm and smiling. It is the same old man whom you encountered in a hut on the road to Ruanon some years ago; the same man who handed you a scroll that foretold the dangers of the Chasm of Doom.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says. <quote>Once again the stars have dictated that our paths would cross.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta>
- <title>234</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From within the closed helmet of black steel, a voice calls out&emdash;<quote>Die Northlander!</quote> The crossbow is hurled aside, and the warrior charges out of the Denka Gate, an axe held high in his hand. You cannot avoid him and must fight him to the death. Due to the speed of his attack you cannot use a bow.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Armoured Assassin</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta>
- <title>235</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the dim light of the sewer you can just discern the outlines of the curtain wall and the streets of Tekaro on your map. The cathedral is right in the centre of the city, approximately half a mile from the point where the two rivers meet, and lying due east of the point at which you entered the sewer. You fold the map and set off again towards your objective.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta>
- <title>236</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow whistles through the gloom and gouges a channel of skin and fur from the creature's skull. It shrieks in pain and paws at the wound. Although it is injured it is far from dead, and sharp claws extend from a bloodstained paw. They lash at your head and you duck only just in time to save yourself from decapitation. Hurriedly, you prepare for hand-to-hand combat before the monster strikes again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta>
- <title>237</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A crowd have gathered to watch the fight. As you strike the fatal blow, a cheer goes up and they surge forward like vultures, eager to pick the corpse clean. You and your horse are shouldered aside by the greedy mob as they strip the dead man of all his belongings.</p>
- <p>Repulsed by their behaviour you quickly turn and ride away from the degrading spectacle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta>
- <title>238</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>About a hundred yards from the east gate, through which you entered the city, you notice a brass plaque, fixed with polished brass spikes to the top of an arched doorway. The sign reads:</p>
- <signpost>GUILD OF THE CITY CRIERS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to dismount and enter the doorway, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not wish to enter, you can continue to the east gate, where two streets lead away from the gatehouse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to take the north street, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to take the south street, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta>
- <title>239</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you wait, Cyrilus becomes agitated. You sense that he is scared to be left on his own after his encounter with Roark. <quote>Are you bound for Varetta?</quote> he asks. <quote>Perhaps we could share the journey? I am bound for the capital in the morning. I know the road very well and I know its dangers&emdash;it would not be wise to travel alone on such a road.</quote></p>
- <p>You pause to consider the prospect of sharing your journey with this old man. On the one hand his company would make the miles seem shorter, but on the other hand, he could prove to be a burden and slow you down. You are about to decline when says something that convinces you to share the journey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319"><link-text>Turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta>
- <title>240</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you walk towards his table, three muscular bodyguards suddenly appear and block your path. The merchant looks up from beneath the rim of his floppy velvet hat and says in a thin voice: <quote>What business do you have with me, stranger?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to ask the merchant the way to Brass Street, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you say you wish to do some business with him, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you decide to apologize for intruding on his privacy and approach the tavern-keeper, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta>
- <title>241</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Near the crest of the hill there is a small hut built close to the track. Outside, on the porch, sits an old woman who is peeling fruit with a wooden knife. She smiles a gap-toothed smile and bids you welcome as you bring your horse to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to ask her if she has seen any riders pass her home, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you decide to ignore her and continue up the track, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta>
- <title>242</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A deadly silence descends on the congregation as your knocking echoes around the temple. A key rattles in the lock; slowly the doors open. A hundred pairs of eyes stare at you suspiciously as you enter the sanctum and a priest in golden robes strides towards you along the wide central aisle. His face is red with anger and he demands to know the reason for your intrusion. When you reply that you have come in search of the Lorestone, a loud gasp of horror rises from the crowd.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the doors crash shut. As one, the congregation stand and unsheathe long curved daggers from beneath their dark brown robes. Murder and hatred glint in their eyes as they close in and hack you to pieces.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta>
- <title>243</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rancid stench of the creature's breath fills your nostrils as you release the bowstring.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If it is 4&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If it is 9&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta>
- <title>244</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse is killed instantly in the rain of arrows. As it crashes to the ground you are hurled forwards, somersaulting through the air before landing in a heap on the bloodstained soil. The archers have brought down the first two ranks of horsemen, but the attack is still pressing forward over the dead and dying in a reckless stampede towards the gate. You are now lying in the path of this stampede.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to leap over the parapet of the bridge to avoid the onrushing horses, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you wish to curl up into a ball and keep completely still, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you wish to run towards the Tekaro Gate, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta>
- <title>245</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>First, decide how many Gold Crowns you wish to wager and note this down in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You consider the problem and decide that there can only be four possible combinations, and you repeat the conundrum under your breath before making your decision: <quote>
- <quote>I'm a boy,</quote> said the one with black hair. <quote>I'm a girl,</quote> said the one with blond hair.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you decide that they both spoke the truth, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you decide that the first child spoke the truth and the second child lied, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you decide that the first child lied and the second child spoke the truth, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you decide that both children lied, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta>
- <title>246</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shambling monster passes within inches of your hiding place, but miraculously it does not detect you. Gradually, the sound of its hideous laugh fades into the darkness, and you emerge from the alcove and hurry back up the stairs to the surface.</p>
- <p>In the chapel you find your glass jar still intact and waste no time filling it with Taunor Water (the healing spa water will restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You may drink the Water now or place the glass jar in your Backpack for future use. (Remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.)</p>
- <p>You decide to return to Cyrilus without delay, for the Yawshath is still at large and could attack again at any time.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta>
- <title>247</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The highway descends into a wide valley that bears the scars of war&emdash;derelict cottages, their walls broken and charred, dot the landscape. You cross a stagnant stream by a rickety wooden bridge and climb towards a copse of trees at the brow of a hillock. As you draw closer to the copse you hear a low hypnotic chant coming from somewhere inside the ring of trees.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="281" height="175" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="281" height="175" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to dismount and investigate the sound, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you wish to ignore it and continue along the highway to Soren, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta>
- <title>248</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards leap from the wagons and surround you with a ring of spears. Their sergeant steps forward and growls, <quote>Throw down your weapons, stranger, or we'll feed you to the crows!</quote></p>
- <p>To reinforce this threat, he stabs at your leg with his spear and its sharp tip nicks your thigh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to retaliate and attack the sergeant, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta>
- <title>249</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a gaping hole in the criss-crossed bars, large enough for you to pass through with ease. The fetid water that is combed by this grille contains all manner of filth, a veritable feast for rats and vermin. However, as you wade deeper into the tunnel, you gradually realize that the sewer is completely free of rats and, in fact, seems to be totally devoid of all life. Circular chutes appear at regular intervals in the tiled ceiling, but they are far too small and slippery to climb. Fifteen minutes after entering the sewer, you arrive at a major junction where two new channels flow into the main course.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to continue ahead, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to follow the left channel, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to follow the right channel, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you have a Map of Tekaro, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta>
- <title>250</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the orange berries of the alether plant. They are much sought after by warriors and soldiers, for they increase both strength and skill during combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to purchase some Alether Berries, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you do not or cannot afford to buy any and decide to remount your horse and leave the village, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta>
- <title>251</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is a disappointment. For five Gold Crowns you were expecting some degree of luxury, but the small and shabby accommodation you find leaves much to be desired. Steam rising from an open-topped barrel in a corner of the room clouds the air. At first you think it must be some form of heating, until you discover it is full of soapy water and realize that this is, in fact, your hot bath. The meagre luxuries of Varetta do not come cheaply.</p>
- <p>You bathe before settling down to a good night's rest, but in the middle of the night you are woken by a bright light. A shooting star of sun-like brilliance arcs over the city, shedding a rainbow of colour across your drab room. You watch as the star slowly fades and then settle down to sleep once more. It seems as if you have only just closed your eyes when the loud and loathsome clang of the tavern bell fills your ears.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="289" height="155" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="289" height="155" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>All awake, all awake! A new day dawns, my fine brave lads!</quote> As the voice of the tavern-keeper echoes through the inn, you gather your equipment and collect your horse from the stable. The night's rest restores 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before setting off on your search for Brass Street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta>
- <title>252</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect252-1" id="sect252-1-foot">
- <p>In all other instances where this bow is mentioned, it is referred to as the <quote>Silver Bow of Duadon</quote>, and treated as a weapon-like Special Item rather than a Weapon. The 3-point bonus to your Random Number picks when using this bow can be added to the 3-point bonus you may already have with Weaponmastery with Bow for a total of 6 points. As with the bonus for Weaponmastery with Bow, you may only add this bonus when determining the success of an bow shot.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A loud cheer shatters the silence as your arrow strikes home&emdash;you have won. The villagers are thrilled to have witnessed such an exciting tournament and crowd around you to offer their praise and congratulations. The little man in the braided jerkin presents you with your prize&emdash;a magnificent bow made from the wood of a silver oak tree. This weapon will add 3 points to your total whenever you are using a bow and are instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Enter it in the <quote>Weapons</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Silver Oak Bow and make a note of its particular property.<a class="footnote" idref="sect252-1-foot" id="sect252-1"/></p>
- <p>After making a short speech to thank the villagers for their generosity, you shoulder your prize and head back to Cyrilus with the good news.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta>
- <title>253</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Looks as like y'made it here jus' in time,</quote> says the cheerful innkeeper, pointing to a rain-streaked window pane. <quote>It's going' t'be a rough night t'night, no mistakin'.</quote></p>
- <p>You discover that a room for the night costs 2 Gold Crowns, plus 1 Gold Crown for your horse's keep. A Meal of black bread and hard-boiled eggs will cost you another Gold Crown, unless you choose to eat a Meal from your Backpack: you must in any case eat a Meal now or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to pay the innkeeper for a night's lodging, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you do not have enough Gold Crowns to pay for a room, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta>
- <title>254</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run across the steering deck and down a stair to the level below, but as soon as your feet touch the bloodstained planks you are attacked from behind by two pirates.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Pirates</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 2 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta>
- <title>255</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dull throbbing pain fills your head as the leader's words reach your ears. You sense that you are being attacked by a powerful Mindforce, but your Psi-screen effectively blocks this psychic assault. However, you pretend to be in agony, hoping to make the leader think he has won victory. Everyone in the procession seems to be delighted by your apparent suffering, as if your cries are music to their ears. They press forward, unsheathing hidden daggers as they rush to encircle you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to evade their onslaught, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to engage in combat with these evil men, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta>
- <title>256</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Redbeard takes you to a tavern that looks more like a banqueting hall than a city alehouse. The Inn of the Crossed Swords is the largest and noisiest tavern you have ever seen. A constant flow of soldiers pours in and out of its cathedral-like doors and the stable is large enough to house an entire army's horses. You stable your horse and accompany Redbeard through the massive oak doors.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="249" height="177" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="249" height="177" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Ale for my friend,</quote> he booms and immediately an inn-girl hurries to obey his command. He points to a table across the hall and says with a cheerful voice: <quote>There he is&emdash;come and meet the captain.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta>
- <title>257</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt of energy burns through your chest like a red-hot poker. You recoil in pain but can no longer control your movements and are blasted high into the air, impaled upon the end of the crackling bolt. Suddenly, it vanishes, leaving you to plummet one hundred feet on to the hard, unyielding stone of the altar.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here on the sacrificial altar of the Cener Druids.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta>
- <title>258</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bolt is slammed back and the great gate slowly opens. <quote>At last, Esmond! Did we wake you from your&emdash;</quote> Cyrilus chokes in mid-sentence, his eyes wide with shock. Inside the gate sits a warrior on a warhorse, wreathed in armour of black and gold. A crossbow rests across his forearm; it is pointed at you. Without warning, he pulls the trigger and the bolt hisses towards your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Without warning, the warrior pulls<br/>the trigger of his crossbow</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="675"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="675"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta>
- <title>259</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is old and decayed&emdash;it has not been opened for over a hundred years. If you are to find out what lies beyond it, you will have to clear away the dirt that jams the hinges.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus or Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not have either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta>
- <title>260</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We have all the company we need,</quote> sneers a shiny-faced warrior, his cheeks pock-marked by disease. <quote>State your business or begone, lest our swords grow restless.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you choose to introduce yourself, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to call their bluff and challenge them to a fight, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you decide to ignore them, take a seat elsewhere, and order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta>
- <title>261</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike the flank of your horse and break through the startled guards in a matter of seconds, but as you gallop through the gate, two more appear and block your path. They are armed with long pikes which they slope at your chest. Tightly you rein in your horse to avoid the threatening steel tips.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta>
- <title>262</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The green-skinned Kloon stares at you, the trace of a sneer playing on his thick rubbery lips. <quote>Wait here,</quote> he says off-handedly and waddles out through the door, slamming it shut as he leaves.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to wait for him to return, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you would rather leave the guild-house and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta>
- <title>263</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>W&ellips; w&ellips; what do you want,</quote> squeals the merchant, cowering behind the edge of the table. His haughty manner has vanished with the lives of his bodyguards, and he is shaking with fear.</p>
- <p>You push the table aside, grab him by his lapels and hoist him to his feet.</p>
- <p><quote>Relax my friend&emdash;I only wish to ask the way to Brass Street,</quote> you say with a laugh.</p>
- <p>The merchant looks at you incredulously, the sweat pouring down his ashen face. <quote>The&ellips; the&ellips; the way to Brass Street?</quote> he stammers. <quote>Of course, of course&ellips; er, let me show you.</quote></p>
- <p>The terrified little man produces a crumpled piece of parchment and hurriedly scribbles directions to Brass Street. You see that it is located on the far side of the city, close to the west wall. Taking the parchment from his twitching fingers, you bid him goodnight and step over the dead bodies of the guards. There is a sudden crash; the merchant has fainted and fallen flat on his face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta>
- <title>264</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature stops in mid-stride, as if paralysed by some invisible force. A gurgling croak escapes from its lips and, as it locates your arrow with its trembling paws, it collapses to its knees. Death is but seconds away. It shudders and sways and then keels over on to its back, writhing for one brief moment in the mud and debris of the chapel floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta>
- <title>265</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He screams and falls with the arrow embedded so deeply into his chest that only its feathered flights can be seen. His comrades freeze in their tracks, their eyes wide with fear. As you move forward they scatter and run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77"><link-text>Turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta>
- <title>266</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ale is cool and refreshing. (Restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.) As you drink, you see that the sleeping barman slouched on his stool is oblivious to your presence. You finish your ale and slam the tankard down, hoping to stir him with the sudden noise, but he does not react. However, you feel you should thank him for his hospitality before leaving the hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta>
- <title>267</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes without sleep; the howling wind of the Varettian plain is your only companion as you ride the long, straight, moonlit highway to Soren. When dawn finally breaks you find yourself on the outskirts of a small and undistinguished hamlet of half-timbered buildings&emdash;whose only unusual feature is a bronze statue of a roguish-looking young man that stands in front of the blacksmith's shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you wish to examine the statue, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you decide to ignore it and continue on your way to Soren, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta>
- <title>268</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The drawstring cuts into your fingers as you take aim at the creature's glowing eyes.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If it is 6&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If it is 9&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta>
- <title>269</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hundred yards along the passage you see a flight of stone steps ascending to a stone trapdoor set flush with the ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to investigate the trapdoor, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to continue along the sewer, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta>
- <title>270</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect270-1" id="sect270-1-foot">
- <p>If you are using the Sommerswerd, you may double the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses of your enemy due to the power of the Sommerswerd against the undead.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Above the church, a whirlpool of darkness is taking form, casting a tomb-like chill on everything beneath. Frost crystallizes on the grass and flowers, and a terrible sound fills the air as the earth begins to shake. Cracks appear in the ground beneath you and suddenly a score of fleshless hands burst through the frozen soil to grab your horse. Shrieking with terror, it rears up and you are thrown into the waiting arms of the waking dead.<a class="footnote" idref="sect270-1-foot" id="sect270-1"/></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You are thrown into the arms of the waking dead</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="611"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="611"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Undead Summonation</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Due to the surprise of the attack, deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first two rounds of combat, unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery. The undead are immune to Psi-surge and Mindblast. Also, unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round of combat you fight, due to the intense cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta>
- <title>271</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely covered a hundred yards when you hear a frantic cry: <quote>Horse thief, horse thief! Don't let him get away!</quote></p>
- <p>You tighten your grip and urge the horse along the highway as it dips and bends, following the low hedgerow that borders the tournament field. The cry alerts some men from the archery competition, and they soon appear in a line at the edge of the field. As they see you approach, they draw their bows to fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control or Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If your total is now 5 or below, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If your total is now 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta>
- <title>272</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The air is sweet with the smell of wet grass. The sun rises above the trees to the east, and mist steams from the hills on either side of the highway. By noon you reach a small village, where brightly decorated cottages line a cobblestoned square. A shrine with an enormous onion-shaped dome stands in the middle of the square, and in its shadow sit a group of old women. They are tending to some shrubs with bright orange berries, which grow in the shade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to stop and investigate the shrine, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to continue on your way to Varetta, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta>
- <title>273</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>It's the tax y'gotta pay to enter Amory,</quote> he answers, irritated by your ignorance of local customs. <quote>This is Lyris and Amory is in Salony,</quote> he explains, emphasizing every word as if you are deaf or dull-witted. <quote>You&ellips; will&ellips; need&ellips; a&ellips; Cess&ellips; to&ellips; enter&ellips; Amory.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to purchase a Cess, pay him 3 Gold Crowns and <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to ignore him and continue your journey, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you decide to teach him some manners, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta>
- <title>274</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You urge your horse forward with expert precision, taking the jump with deceptive ease. The angry cries of the guards are now mixed with some cheers from onlookers who are obviously delighted by your horsemanship and daring. The town watch in Quarlen have a reputation for being pompous and self-important; anyone who can make fools of them and get away with it is sure to find favour among the townsfolk. After a while the cheers and curses fade behind you, and you rein in your horse to take stock of your surroundings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta>
- <title>275</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the street you stop to look in the window of a tall, half-timbered shop. It contains a fascinating selection of maps and charts, which detail the various cities and regions of Magnamund. You enter the shop and browse the shelves that line the walls. Three maps in particular attract your interest: a Map of Sommerlund (5 Gold Crowns); a Map of Tekaro (4 Gold Crowns); and a Map of Luyen (3 Gold Crowns).</p>
- <p>The maps are Backpack Items. If you wish to buy one or all of them, make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before returning to the apothecary.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231"><link-text>Turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta>
- <title>276</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate your Magnakai power on the warhammer, and slowly it rises from the chest of the corpse. You will it to move upwards and as it appears through the gaping hole, you catch hold of it and examine it closely. It is a very fine weapon, wrought of a metal called bronin, which looks exactly like new bronze, but does not tarnish like ordinary alloys of copper and tin. If you wish to keep this Bronin Warhammer, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Weapon. When you use it in combat it will add 1 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>Satisfied that nothing else of value has been overlooked, you leave the chapel and return to Cyrilus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta>
- <title>277</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man's reactions are lightning-fast. He hurls the silver tray at your head and escapes through a curtained arch at the back of the workshop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to give chase, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to let him go and leave the taxidermy, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta>
- <title>278</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn your head to see a shambling, blunt-nosed horror emerge from the shadows. It emits a hideous, snickering cry and lashes out with one of its four razor-sharp claws, sending you tumbling backwards across the muddy flagstones. You quickly regain your feet, but the surprise attack has opened a gaping wound in your arm. (You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) The creature's eyes glow with hatred as it shuffles hungrily towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you have a bow, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you do not have a bow, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta>
- <title>279</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive at a tavern, but one that looks more like a huge banqueting hall than a city alehouse. The Inn of the Crossed Swords is the largest and noisiest tavern you have ever seen. A constant flow of soldiers pour in and out of its cathedral-like doors, and the adjoining stable is large enough to house the horses of an entire army.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You enter the tavern in time to<br/>witness a spectacular event</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="677"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="677"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You stable your horse and enter the tavern just in time to witness a spectacular event. The middle of the hall has been cleared to allow a horse and rider to gallop the full length of the building, and bets are being laid on the rider's skill at skewering fruit on the point of his lance. It reminds you of part of the training taught to Kai Lords in preparation for battle, but unlike the Kai horse trials, there is more than just skill and the honour of the rider at stake here. In a line along the length of the hall kneel ten soldiers from the same regiment as the rider&emdash;men accused of cowardice in battle. The fruits the rider must skewer are resting on their heads. If he makes the slightest mistake the men will lose their lives and, more importantly to the mercenaries, all the money the regiment has wagered on the skill of the rider.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to stake some Gold Crowns on this deadly game, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to approach the bar and talk to one of the barmaids, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to sit at one of the tables, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta>
- <title>280</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride along a muddy path running the length of a ridge that overlooks a great stone bridge. High stone walls and a fortified gatehouse rise steeply from the river bank, and the only access to the city is across the bridge.</p>
- <p>You stare at the battlements of Tekaro with growing despair, for they bristle with archers and cauldrons of molten lead. The burnt-out hulks of siege towers and the bodies of dead soldiers lie strewn in heaps before the battered city gate. From where you are you can see the cathedral spire silhouetted in the glow of innumerable fires in the centre of Tekaro. If it were not for this accursed war you would be in the crypt in less than an hour.</p>
- <p>You see that before you the path dips steeply towards a line of tents erected behind a wall of earth and logs. They overflow with the wounded from countless assaults across the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, you may stop and help the wounded men and <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you do not have this skill, or choose not to use it you can continue along the path and <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta>
- <title>281</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>My humble thanks,</quote> says the frail old man as you help him to his feet. <quote>I am forever in your debt.</quote></p>
- <p>Taking him by the arm, you escort him to his table where he gathers up his scattered belongings. <quote>My name is Cyrilus. I am a magician,</quote> he says meekly, as if apologizing for some weakness or abnormality. <quote>I claim no great understanding of the arcane&emdash;my talents are modest by any standard. I only dabble in simple tricks, earning my keep with amusements and sleights-of-hand to amuse the courtiers of Varetta.</quote></p>
- <p>Your eyes obviously betray you; the old man is quick to note your sudden interest in the word <quote>Varetta</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to ask him about the Lorestone of Varetta, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you do not wish to question him, bid him goodnight and <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta>
- <title>282</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away and unsheathe your weapon in one swift, fluid movement. The dagger grazes your side (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), but you manage to avoid being seriously wounded. Both men sneer maliciously as they close in for the kill. You cannot evade them and must fight them both as one enemy.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Backstabbers</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta>
- <title>283</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Forewarned by your power, your senses are acutely aware of the deadly missile screaming towards your chest. Suddenly, everything seems to be happening in slow motion. You strike at the bolt as it cuts through the air, deflecting it with one blow. Your opponent hurls his crossbow to the ground, and from within the closed helmet of black steel a voice cries: <quote>Die Northlander!</quote></p>
- <p>The warrior charges out of the Denka Gate with an axe held high in his mailed fist. You cannot avoid the attack and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Armoured Assassin</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Due to the speed of the attack, you cannot use a bow. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, you may add 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta>
- <title>284</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A huge, fat-bellied mercenary is standing on a wooden box near the door, taking bets from the crowd of gold-hungry soldiers while his assistants are busy drumming up business in the hall for their master. One of the grimy-faced boys approaches and asks you for your stake.</p>
- <p>Firstly, decide how many Gold Crowns you wish to stake on the event and note this sum in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;there is a maximum bet of 10 Gold Crowns. Next, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and note this as well. Pick another number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 3 to it.</p>
- <p>If the first number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is higher than the second total, you win the bet. Multiply your stake money by 2 to determine how much you have won (the odds are two to one). If the second number is higher than the first, the rider has successfully skewered all the fruit without killing any of the men, and your stake money is lost.</p>
- <p>You may bet up to three times on this game, or quit at any stage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you quit during the event, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you bet on all three rounds and have not lost all of your Gold Crowns by the end, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you lose all your Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta>
- <title>285</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ahead there is another stone staircase that leads down into the dungeons of Castle Taunor. It is pitch dark and the stench of mould and decay forces you to cover your nose and mouth as you stagger down the steps. The Yawshath follows you, its unnatural gibbering changing in pitch to a maniacal laugh, which makes you shudder with revulsion.</p>
- <p>You sense a passage that continues ahead and a small alcove off to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to continue straight ahead, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to hide in the alcove, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta>
- <title>286</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb a ladder to the steering deck, drawing your legs up just in time to avoid a razor-sharp cutlass, which slices through the wooden rungs like a hot knife through lard. At the end of the gangway, one of the boat's crewmen is in combat with a pirate, but he is no match for the wiry pirate who dispatches him quickly with a knife. The pirate then catches sight of you and snatches a fresh blade from the bandolier of daggers strapped across his chest. The gangway offers no cover, and the pirate's hand is drawn back ready to throw.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The pirate's hand is drawn back ready to throw</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="682"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="682"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta>
- <title>287</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave your horse tied to a post beside the hut and approach the door. Cyrilus is announcing his arrival by rapping on the Denka Gate with his staff and shouting to his brother to open up. You chuckle at his growing impatience as he hammers at the gate; if his brother is anything like Cyrilus, he is probably fast asleep.</p>
- <p>Inside the hut you are greeted by the mouth-watering smell of freshly baked bread. Pyramids of loaves are stacked high in hampers and trays of pies, flans, cakes and biscuits cover the counter. There is nobody here, but an open door reveals another room at the back of the hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to call for service, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to help yourself to some bread and cakes, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta>
- <title>288</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wine smells delicious&emdash;the taxidermist must hold you in very high esteem, for wine as good as this is expensive and rare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you do not possess this skill, drink the wine and <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta>
- <title>289</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Galloping along the narrow thoroughfare through broken streets and dark alleyways, you soon outdistance any immediate threat to your safety. You halt at a small square to allow your horse to drink from a water-trough that stands beside a narrow stone arch. As she drinks her fill, you observe the to-ing and fro-ing of the townsfolk and hear the drunken songs and revelry from the wineshops bordering the square. A knot of brawling rivermen tumble out of one doorway and set about each other with knives and bottles, egged on by their rowdy comrades who wager fistfuls of crowns on the outcome. The fight soon gets out of hand; as it spreads, you decide it is better to leave before you are drawn into it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta>
- <title>290</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride into Eula at the captain's side, his banner emblazoned with a flaming battle-axe fluttering overhead. The town has been turned into a huge army encampment; its people have long since fled to the north, abandoning their homes and livestock to the gold-hungry soldiers. Men from a dozen nations rub shoulders with warriors of less-than-human origins, united by common greed. The captain turns to the south where the highway is clogged with foot soldiers. As you catch your first glimpse of Tekaro, burning beneath a pall of black smoke, your heart sinks. This is where the Lorestone lies, in a city under siege from an army of ten thousand fighting men.</p>
- <p>As you approach a tangle of siege-works at the bank of the River Quarl, the captain points to an encampment in a field to your left where a blue flag with a gold eagle flutters in the soot-laden air.</p>
- <p><quote>Prince Ewevin's standard,</quote> he says. <quote>The time has come to meet our paymaster.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to stay with the captain's company, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you decide the time has come for you to leave the mercenaries, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta>
- <title>291</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first they pretend not to have noticed you, but eventually a stubbly-faced soldier deigns to answer. <quote>Let the dice decide,</quote> he says, his face red and glowing in the light of the lantern. He raises his hand, spits on his palm and throws the bone dice against the wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If the number is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta>
- <title>292</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your feathered shaft cuts the air and sinks deep into the creature's shoulder. It shrieks in pain and snaps the arrow in two with one swipe of its gigantic paw. Although you have injured the beast, it is far from dead. Sharp claws stained with blood lash back at your head, and you duck only just in time to save yourself from decapitation. Hurriedly, you prepare for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta>
- <title>293</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the door creaks open, a sun-like radiance pours from the tomb and floods the crypt with golden light, its searing intensity paralysing the Dakomyd. You grasp the Lorestone and your senses reel with new-found wisdom and strength. Instinctively, you raise your weapon and strike the monster at the base of its hideous skull. It shrieks and dies instantly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta>
- <title>294</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, you notice the skeletal badges that adorn the cloaks of these men, and a chilling memory floods into your mind. They are dressed identically to the evil priests who accompanied the renegade warlord, Barraka, at the buried temple of Maaken&emdash;they are the Acolytes of Vashna.</p>
- <p>After the defeat of Barraka, they fled south to escape the Sommlending army. It was a common belief in the Lastlands that the brotherhood had been destroyed and their power extinguished forever, but this encounter proves otherwise. You sense that you are in deadly danger. Should they discover your true identity, they will do their utmost to destroy you.</p>
- <p>Their leader repeats his demand, his voice sharp with impatience.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to answer his question with the reply <quote>believer</quote>, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you choose to say <quote>unbeliever</quote>, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta>
- <title>295</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spring aside just in time to avoid the crackling charge, but no sooner has it shot past you than another is sent on its way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you do not possess this Special Item and wish to attack the leader, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you would rather turn and flee, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta>
- <title>296</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow is on target, but it does not penetrate the thick metal plates of armour that protect the warrior's back. You watch with dismay as it glances away and disappears over the parapet of the bridge.</p>
- <p>Without further delay, you shoulder your bow and mount your horse in order to pursue the kidnappers before they vanish from sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta>
- <title>297</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tide of battle has turned in your favour. The pirates came in search of easy plunder, but your furious resistance has broken their nerve. They flee from the decks, scrambling into the longboats to escape. The captain follows them, hewing at them with his sword. He cuts his way to the ship's rail and grabs the pirate leader by the neck. He rams the man's head against the main mast, once, twice, three times, with a rage that splits the timber and the pirate's leather-clad skull.</p>
- <p><quote>Ha!</quote> he cries gleefully, <quote>I've always said the Deldenians have no head for a fight!</quote></p>
- <p>The battle ends as swiftly as it began, with the surviving pirates melting away like phantoms into the fog. There are few casualties amongst the mercenaries, but the boat's crew have been decimated. The pirate berserkers trapped them below decks and slaughtered them&emdash;only one escaped their murderous blades.</p>
- <p>The captain takes command, marshalling repairs and overseeing the burial of the dead. As the bodies sink beneath the dark waters, the Kazonara emerges from the mist to the welcoming sight of Luyen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19"><link-text>Turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta>
- <title>298</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect298-1" id="sect298-1-foot">
- <p>The penalty for picking a 0 only applies during the second portion of the tournament.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Jakan is a longbow used by the costal fishermen of Vassagonia. It is ideally suited to the hunting of barbidahn and squid that live in the shallows and reefs of Barrakeesh, but it is a very poor target bow. In addition to this handicap, the particular bow that you have chosen has a hairline fracture running along its entire length and could well break at any moment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">When you enter the tournament, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points. Also, if at any time you should pick a 0 from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> when using the bow, the Jakan will break. If this happens during the tournament at any stage, <link-text>turn immediately to 335</link-text>. Make a note of this adventive number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for future reference.<a class="footnote" idref="sect298-1-foot" id="sect298-1"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">To begin the tournament, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta>
- <title>299</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Patiently you wait for one of the overworked tavern girls to notice you, but before you can raise your hand and attract her attention, you are suddenly aware of the sharp point of a dagger being pressed against your spine.</p>
- <p><quote>Your purse or your life,</quote> whispers the swarthy-faced mercenary who has appeared at your side. <quote>Make your mind up quickly or my friend may be a little careless with his knife.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to hand over all your Gold Crowns without offering any resistance to the robbers, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you have no Gold Crowns, or if you decide to refuse these men their demand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta>
- <title>300</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you ride west along a wide avenue of weathered red stone, you take in the early morning sights of this magnificent city. Window shutters slam open as the Varettians awake to a new day and smells of breakfast and freshly ground jala waft from shop doorways.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="226" height="131" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="226" height="131" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At the centre of the city, you cross a square paved with crystal slabs and pass beneath an archway of polished green stone. Stately halls and public buildings give way to dust-worn shops and a park full of glistening flowers with huge leaves of red, gold and pink. Beyond the park, a street paved with white gravel leads to a fortified tower, the tallest in the city. It is the Tower of the King and marks the entrance to Brass Street.</p>
- <p>Turning into Brass Street, the sound of bubbling water and quiet chanting drifts towards you on the still air. Old men in brown robes, their heads covered by hoods, glide silently across the white gravelled path. You ride under an archway and enter the enclosed courtyard of a grand building, a hall of learning. Suddenly, a tingle runs the length of your spine as you sense you are close to your goal.</p>
- <p>At the door to the hall, there is a sign that indicates the location of three chambers: the observatory, the library and the temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to investigate the observatory, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to investigate the library, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you wish to investigate the temple, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta>
- <title>301</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the speed and grace of movement that marks you as a Kai Master, you load, take aim and fire. Your arrow pierces the lordling's forearm as his sword descends, causing the blow to splinter stone, not skull. He utters a shrill cry and spins backwards, cradling his wounded arm as he falls.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse you, scum!</quote> he shrieks, <quote>I am Roark, highborn of Amory. I shall have your life for this&emdash;mark my words!</quote></p>
- <p>Trembling with pain and fury, he staggers to his feet and demands his sword and cloak from the innkeeper before stumbling into the night with a welter of threats and curses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta>
- <title>302</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The books are catalogued under headings that cover all manner of subjects. You search for those relating to the Lorestone of Varetta or any that detail the history of the Kai or Sun Eagle's quest. You discover to your surprise that they have all been removed. Judging by the lack of dust on the empty shelves, they were taken away less than a day ago. After double-checking that you have not overlooked anything, you decide that there is little here to help you on your quest and leave the library.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you now wish to investigate the temple, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you decide to enter the observatory, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta>
- <title>303</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes home with deadly accuracy, penetrating the rider's armour at the base of his skull. You see him throw both arms into the air, topple from the saddle and land with a crash of buckled metal in the middle of the bridge. There is no doubt in your mind that your enemy is dead; if the arrow did not kill him then such a fall in heavy armour most surely did.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you wish to search the body, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to mount your horse and pursue the kidnappers, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta>
- <title>304</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The youth snatches your gold, flicks the square of blue card at you and slams shut the outhouse door. It is stamped with today's date and will allow you access to the town of Amory on this day only. You pocket the Cess (mark it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta>
- <title>305</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once through the arch, you run headlong across a rock-strewn courtyard towards a breach in the castle wall. Here you notice a stone staircase leading down to an iron gate. A quick glance over your shoulder tells you that the Yawshath is still in hot pursuit and is closing the gap. It is in a frenzy of hatred and anger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to climb through the breach in the castle wall, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to run down the stairs to the iron gate, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta>
- <title>306</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately, you fight against the current and claw your way towards the bank. Breathless, freezing and soaking wet, you stagger from the water and collapse on the rocks. Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to extreme cold.</p>
- <p>As your senses return, you find that you have emerged from the river close to where the Quarl joins the River Storn. You see a small cave in the base of the city wall less than twenty feet from where you lie, a rusty criss-cross of iron covering its mouth. Judging by the foul smell of the water pouring from its depths, you suspect it to be a sewer outfall. Suddenly, a flicker of hope returns as you realize that this outfall could lead right into the heart of Tekaro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta>
- <title>307</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wagon draws up beside an empty fountain. Its tailgate flaps down to reveal a cargo of freshly baked bread and a rush of hungry soldiers flood round like bees to honey, desperate to buy some of the mouth-watering fare. You have not eaten today, and the delicious smell wakens your sleeping appetite. The loaves are 2 Gold Crowns each, and each loaf counts as one Meal. You may purchase as many loaves as you wish. Unless you eat a Meal now you must lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta>
- <title>308</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai skill tells you the meaning of a symbol carved into the stone above the south gatehouse: it is a winged spur, the emblem of the army of Lyris. This gate must be the entrance to a guardhouse, for the highway that leads to the north gate shows signs of more frequent use where its deeply rutted surface has borne the brunt of merchant traffic to and from Casiorn. The tracks that mark the road here are only those of iron-shod horses. As the border guards of Lyris have a poor reputation for hospitality, it would be wise to avoid them if possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to approach the north gate, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you decide to approach the south gate, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta>
- <title>309</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Whoa! 'Tis not your lucky night, stranger. The dice command me to hold my tongue.</quote></p>
- <p>He and his swarthy companions turn their backs on you and laugh as they continue their game. You shrug your shoulders and press on along the crowded street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta>
- <title>310</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crypt floor is crawling with the severed remains of the monster, which still writhe blindly forward with maniacal intent. Spider-like, a severed hand climbs your leg and embeds its talons in your flesh. (You lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) As you fight to free yourself from its vice-like grip, the torn pieces of the Dakomyd's body gather themselves together for another attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to leap forward and strike the creature before it has completely formed, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to unlock the tomb and retrieve the Lorestone, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta>
- <title>311</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blind with hate and rage, the Yawshath dives straight at you. Your blow is well timed and deadly accurate&emdash;it opens a deep gash in the creature's torso, killing it instantly. However, the strength of your blow is not enough to turn aside the creature's body; it smashes into your chest, carrying you over the edge of the precipice to your doom.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta>
- <title>312</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find the tavern-keeper breaking up a fight between two drunken soldiers. His solution to their argument is short and sweet: grabbing the two men by their necks, he slams their heads together with such force that the crack echoes above the deafening clamour of the hall.</p>
- <p><quote>Brass Street?</quote> he replies, his face lined in thought, <quote>yes, I know it well. Here, I'll show you.</quote> The big man produces a greasy piece of paper from his pocket on which he scrawls the directions to Brass Street. You see that it is located on the far side of the city, close to the west wall. You accept the paper and the tavern-keeper accepts your thanks before returning to the crowd to sort out another scuffle in his own inimitable way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta>
- <title>313</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gasp with shock as the bolt sinks deeply into your shoulder (lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and fight to stay in the saddle as the force of impact throws you to one side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you are still alive after this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta>
- <title>314</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch in readiness to avoid the dagger whistling towards your chest. Your eye follows the glinting blade, anticipating its path with perfect accuracy. The pirate gasps with amazement as you run straight towards the dagger, twisting aside at precisely the right second for the blade to pass beneath your raised arm. Unnerved by the shock, he is unprepared for your attack and before he can recover himself, he is tumbling backwards over the side of the boat into the cold, deep waters of the Storn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta>
- <title>315</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A blistering pain erupts in your head as the leader's curse reaches your ears. You are being attacked by a powerful Mindforce, which robs you of 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The procession is obviously delighted by your suffering&emdash;your cries seem to be music to their ears. They press forward, unsheathing hidden daggers from their robes as they try to encircle you. Mustering your reserves of strength, you turn your horse round and gallop away, desperate to put distance between yourself and the source of your agony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta>
- <title>316</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to draw a chair out from under the table and sit down when you suddenly freeze: the sharp point of a dagger is being pressed against your spine.</p>
- <p><quote>Your purse or your life,</quote> whispers the swarthy-faced mercenary who has appeared at your side. <quote>Make your mind up quickly or my friend may become rather careless with his knife.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you have no Gold Crowns, or if you decide to refuse these men their demand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to hand over all your Gold Crowns without offering any resistance, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta>
- <title>317</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race out of the hut to see your travelling companion struggling with six armoured horsemen. They have him surrounded, and his attempts at resistance are futile. A blow from a mace knocks him unconscious, and he limply falls across the neck of his horse. A moment later, all but one of the riders are galloping across the bridge with their captive in tow. The remaining horseman, a warrior swathed from head to toe in black and gold armour, raises a crossbow and takes aim as you run towards your horse.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Huntmastery, subtract 5 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If your total is now 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta>
- <title>318</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The channel gradually begins to curve to the east, and you notice that it is becoming lighter. You see that a greenish-glow emanates from a vault in the distance, where a curtain of thin, web-like strands hang from the ceiling. If you are to continue in this direction, you will have to pass through the curtain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to pass through the curtain of strands, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to draw them aside with your weapon before passing through, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta>
- <title>319</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You seek the Lorestone, do you not?</quote> he says, in a hushed tone. <quote>I cannot tell you where it is, but I know a man who can. Let me ride with you to Varetta, and in return I shall take you to this man.</quote></p>
- <p>Your basic Kai instincts tell you that this man speaks the truth. You nod your agreement and arrange to meet in the tavern courtyard at dawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta>
- <title>320</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the great doors of the temple, you hear the strident voice of a man preaching to a congregation. His words are echoed at intervals by a chorus of voices.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to enter the temple, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to enter the observatory, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta>
- <title>321</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shudder as the Sommerswerd drinks raw power from the leader's golden rod. His fury turns to fear as you whirl it around your head and hurl the bolt of energy back at his face. There is a tremendous roar as the man disintegrates, consumed in a ball of white flame. However, as you move forwards, you see that each hooded man has a golden rod. They raise them in unison, pooling their collective power to try to destroy your sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to continue your attack, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you wish to turn and flee, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta>
- <title>322</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>My humble apologies, sergeant,</quote> you say, hoping to avoid confrontation and the possibility of a fight. <quote>After so many years away from home, I am impatient to see my family.</quote></p>
- <p>The sergeant lowers his spear but continues to eye you suspiciously. Using your Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, you have imitated the thin nasal sound of the Quarlen dialect to perfection, but the sergeant is still wary. However, he gradually relaxes his guard, and the sneer is replaced by a smile on his battle-scarred face.</p>
- <p><quote>We have a special toll for the likes of you who forget their native manners&emdash;10 Gold Crowns,</quote> he says, a gloved hand held out in expectation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to pay the sergeant 10 Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you choose not to pay and decide to evade the sergeant while his guard is down by jumping the wagons, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta>
- <title>323</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Dakomyd shudders and reels back as your weapon makes impact, sinking deep into flesh that clings like jelly and reeks of a charnel smell that closes your throat. A drop of its watery blood splashes on your arm, eating through your tunic and searing your flesh. Your weapon disintegrates, corroded by the blood. Before you can pull away, a razor-sharp talon snares your cloak and draws you to your doom.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here in the crypt of Tekaro Cathedral.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta>
- <title>324</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tearing aside the curtain, you rush into a high-vaulted chamber that reeks of preservatives and dead bodies. From hooks in the ceiling hang the carcasses of exotic animals, and on the many work tables lie dissected heads, destined for trophy plaques. You cast your eyes around the workshop, but the man has vanished.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The chamber reeks with the oungent smell<br/>of preservatives and dead bodies</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="675"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="675"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta>
- <title>325</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You do not have to look very far for the horse's owner&emdash;at this very moment he is striding towards you. Suddenly, he recognizes you and salutes you with a friendly wave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you won the archery contest, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you did not win the archery contest, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta>
- <title>326</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you destroy the last of the fleshless skeletons, you see that the struggle has spread beyond the walls of the churchyard. From the depths of an open crypt, a shambling mass of zombies are hurling themselves at the riders, tearing the terrified warriors from their saddles. Roark's summonation has gone horribly out of control; no living creature is safe from the terror he has unleashed.</p>
- <p>The lordling turns and gallops away in blind panic, leaving his followers to their grisly deaths. As he disappears, the swirling funnel of darkness slowly fades, and the undead stagger and fall, crumbling into dust, which is carried away on the evening breeze.</p>
- <p>You rush to the aid of the old magician, who lies, mortally wounded, pinned beneath the body of his dead horse. As you cradle his head in your hands, his eyes flicker and open and he forces a whisper from his blood-flecked lips:</p>
- <p><quote>Brass&ellips; Street&ellips;</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta>
- <title>327</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon come to a junction where two doors face each other across the corridor. The sound of the preacher is drifting through the keyhole of the door to your right, which suggests that access to the temple lies that way. The left door has no keyhole, but you sense that it is not locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you wish to listen at the right door, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to enter the left door, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta>
- <title>328</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking a seat that offers a good view of the hall, you catch the eye of a serving girl and order a plate of roast beef. She returns with a platter stacked high with steaming meat and sets it down before you.</p>
- <p><quote>2 Gold Crowns, if you please, sir,</quote> she says, presenting an open hand that is bloodied by the food. You pay the girl (remember to deduct the Gold Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and settle down to your feast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219"><link-text>Turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta>
- <title>329</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hail of arrows engulfs you, and an agonizing explosion of pain fills your head, chest and legs. You are mortally wounded, and although you fight for your life, the struggle is soon over as you are trampled into the Tekaro Bridge by the captain's men.</p>
- <choice>Your quest and your life end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta>
- <title>330</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the junction with the highway, you see the riders emerging in single file behind a derelict cottage. They draw themselves into a circle in the middle of the village, and although they are out of earshot, you can tell by their movements and frantic gestures that they are having a heated argument. Suddenly, the circle breaks and they ride towards you with Cyrilus, still unconscious, in tow behind the last rider. You urge your horse off along the track and take cover among the dense trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have a bow and want to ambush them as they ride past your hiding place, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to attack the last rider and try to recapture Cyrilus, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you decide to let them pass and then follow them, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta>
- <title>331</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride all night without sleep, with only the moon to light your way and the howling wind as your companion. As the first light of dawn creeps over the horizon, you see a small village less than a mile ahead. A dog barks gruffly at you as you ride into the refuse-strewn streets, and you are forced to drive it away with the toe of your boot as it snaps persistently at your horse's hind legs.</p>
- <p>On the far side of the village, where the highway enters a line of scattered hills, a fortified manor house stands guard. A large sign, faded by wind and rain, proclaims a curious message:</p>
- <signpost>AMORY CESS&emdash;3 GOLD CROWNS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to stop and enquire at the manor house about the meaning of the sign, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you decide to ignore the sign and continue on your way to Amory, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta>
- <title>332</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a wide street where black iron lanterns swing above the doors of shops and houses, their oily black smoke staining the walls and adding a pall of gloom to the darkening sky. The street descends towards the River Quarl, where flatboats lie moored at the rich merchant wharfs. Quarlen stands at the most northerly point on the river that can be navigated by boat and barge, and it is here that the river meets the caravan routes to Casiorn and the Lastlands, so ensuring the future of the town.</p>
- <p>At the approach to a wide stone bridge, you see an impressive-looking hostelry, with stables and outhouses. A painted shield hangs above the courtyard gate proudly displaying its name:</p>
- <signpost>THE BARREL BRIDGE TAVERN</signpost>
- <p>The moment you enter the courtyard, a stableboy appears from nowhere and bids you welcome. He takes charge of your horse and shows you the door to the tavern hall. It is crowded, despite the early hour, and a roaring fire blazes in its great stone hearth. The smell of roasting beef makes your mouth water, reminding you that you have not eaten today.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you do not have any Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">Otherwise, if you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to take a seat and order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to approach the bar and ask about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta>
- <title>333</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to place a Gold Crown in the woman's hand when a man appears as if from nowhere. He slaps her grubby palm with a studded gauntlet and bellows: <quote>Begone, y'thievin' hag!</quote></p>
- <p>The woman's eyes flash angrily as she nurses her bruised hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you take exception to this and wish to attack the man, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you wish to demand an explanation for his actions, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to ride away and avoid a confrontation, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta>
- <title>334</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A huge, lumbering monster stalks towards you. It is over ten feet high with thick, twisted, hairy limbs and eight-fingered hands tipped by razor-sharp talons. Baleful, monstrous eyes protrude from yellow slits in its glistening head, and a long reptilian tail whips behind it. Its hideous and peculiar gibbering fills the moonlit crypt as it draws nearer and nearer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you wish to prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta>
- <title>335</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A loud crack echoes around the tournament field as the Jakan splits in two. The crowd howl with laughter, and even the stern-faced Altan has to try hard not to chuckle at your misfortune. The little man in the braided jacket informs you that you have lost the tournament by default and announces that Altan is the winner. As the woodsman disappears from sight amongst the teeming crowds of cheering villagers, you take the opportunity to slip away unnoticed and head back towards Cyrilus and the horses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33"><link-text>Turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta>
- <title>336</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pushing your way through the crowds of cheering soldiers, you manage to reach a quieter corner of the tavern hall at one end of the immense bar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to talk to one of the barmaids, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to sit at one of the tables, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta>
- <title>337</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a dozen grim-faced robbers spring up from behind the churchyard wall. The wounded man straightens himself and unsheathes a rusty scimitar, an evil cackle issuing from his black-toothed mouth.</p>
- <p>The robbers vault the stone wall and run at you, brandishing their tarnished weapons above their heads.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Grave Robbers</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Due to their numbers, you may only evade in the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you wish to evade by galloping away towards the west, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you stay and win the fight, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta>
- <title>338</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shock awaits you at the top of the hill track. Staring down into the valley below, you see your travelling companion embroiled in a struggle with six armoured horsemen. They have him surrounded, and his attempts at resistance are short-lived. You see him struck on the back of the head and fall across the neck of his horse. A moment later the riders are galloping away with their unconscious captive, heading off along the highway to the west.</p>
- <p>By the time you reach the base of the track, the riders are dots on the horizon. You sprint towards your horse, intent on giving chase before they disappear from view completely, and as you take hold of the reins, you notice Cyrilus' oaken staff lying on the ground. You retrieve the staff before setting off in pursuit of your companion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta>
- <title>339</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly, the level of the sewer water begins to drop as you climb a ramp that leads to a circular vault. You stop at the edge of the vault, sensing a pit in the darkness ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you possess a Kalte Firesphere or a Torch and a Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you do not have any of these Items, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta>
- <title>340</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote idref="sect340-1" id="sect340-1-foot">
- <p>In this case, the Weaponmastery with Bow bonus is added once to the entire total of three picks, not to each pick.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A small, flat-faced man dressed in a silver-braided jerkin enters the tent and calls for everyone's attention. Quickly, he explains the rules that govern the tournament and then ushers you on to the range. At the far end of the field is a line of targets, each with ten coloured rings marked 0&endash;9. Each archer is given 3 arrows with which he must get a minimum score of 8 in order to qualify for the next round of the tournament.</p>
- <p>Pick three numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add them together. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, add 3 to your total.<a class="footnote" idref="sect340-1-foot" id="sect340-1"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If your total score is now 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta>
- <title>341</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your horse stabled safely in the hold of the Kazonara, all that remains for you to do is find your cabin. This proves to be a tiny room at the bow, but at least it has a comfortable bunk and you fall asleep as soon as your head touches the feather pillow.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="195" height="144" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="195" height="144" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You wake an hour after dawn and peer out of the circular porthole at the shadowy riverbank. Drizzle obscures all detail and the sky is tinged with grey. As day approaches, the river mist grows thicker and whiter and you go up on deck. The captain stands alone at the rail, the shoulders of his leather cloak soaked by the cold drizzle. He nods a welcome and points to the Cener mountains now hidden in the mist.</p>
- <p><quote>This foul weather robs us of landmarks, but by my reckoning we should be in Luyen by noon.</quote> You stare through the grey, damp air and pull your cloak closely around your shoulders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris (that is, you possess the Magnakai Disciplines of Invisibility, Huntmastery and Pathsmanship), <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you have not completed this Lore-circle, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta>
- <title>342</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The women smile as you dismount and approach the shrine.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome brave sir, welcome to the Shrine of the Warrior. You come in search of our sacred crop, do you not?</quote> says a rosy-cheeked matron as she dusts the leafy shrubs with a square of silk.</p>
- <p><quote>The fruit of our alether plant will give you strength in battle,</quote> says another and offers you a handful of the small orange berries.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to purchase some Alether Berries, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you wish to decline her offer, remount your horse and leave the village, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta>
- <title>343</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You prepare to defend yourself, for there is no time to evade the creature's attack.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Yawshath</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you survive 3 rounds of combat and wish to evade the creature by escaping through the archway by which you entered, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta>
- <title>344</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hideous creature gurgles with anger and springs forward to attack.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Dakomyd</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>It is immune to Psi-surge and Mindblast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you reduce its <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to 25 or less, do not continue combat but instead <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta>
- <title>345</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man delights in showing you his work, which is excellent. Many of his exhibits were caught on hunting expeditions, either by himself or by clients who wished to preserve their kills as trophies&emdash;several trophies have been expertly restored to cover the evidence of wounds or severed limbs. He offers to show you his workshop where these miracles of taxidermy are carried out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to see the taxidermist's workshop, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to decline his generous offer and leave the shop, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta>
- <title>346</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seated near to the fireplace are three surly-faced drinkers, their tunics stained with the grime of travel. Each wear a red badge upon their breast, embroidered with the crossed swords of Varetta. You sense that they are soldiers-of-fortune, probably in the pay of a captain who comes from the same city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you wish to join the men and perhaps find out more about Varetta, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you decide not to approach them and wish to go to the bar and ask about a room for the night, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you would rather take a seat and order some food, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta>
- <title>347</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your betting has attracted some unwanted attention. Two shifty-eyed mercenaries have been watching you with more than casual interest since your arrival at the Inn of the Crossed Swords, and as the event ends and the crowds disperse, you suddenly feel the sharp point of a dagger piercing the back of your tunic.</p>
- <p><quote>Your purse or your life,</quote> whispers one of the men, his foul breath filling your nostrils. <quote>Make your choice.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to hand over all your Gold Crowns without offering any resistance, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you decide to refuse the men their demand and wish to fight to keep your gold, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta>
- <title>348</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manoeuvre the noose until it catches on the spur at the back of the hammer's head and lift it gently from the corpse's chest. Unfortunately, the rope is not secure, and the warhammer slips from the noose as you pull it upwards. With a dull splash, the weapon lands in one of the black puddles and sinks from sight. Disappointed by such a stroke of bad luck, you retrieve your Rope and coil it back into your Backpack before returning to Cyrilus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta>
- <title>349</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You part the strands and step into the small vault beyond, but you have barely set one foot down before you sense that something is wrong. The floor feels soft and spongy, and the strands are now coiling themselves around your shoulders. You have stepped into the spawning chamber of a Dakomyd.</p>
- <p>As the acid secreted by the larvae eats through your clothes and sears your flesh, you hear the distant mocking laughter of the Dakomyd mother.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta>
- <title>350</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before your eyes the Dakomyd's skin ripples as if a wave were washing beneath its skin. Suddenly a criss-cross of wrinkles appears, and layers of transparent bone peel and fall from its shell-like skull. Its body becomes hunched, shrinking and folding by the second, until all that is left is a film of dust on the floor of the crypt. Time has at last caught up with this ancient terror.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Time has at last caught up with this ancient terror</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="772" height="596"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="772" height="596"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As the golden light begins to fade, you stare at the object of your quest&emdash;the Lorestone of Varetta. But all that you hold in your hand is a hollow sphere of glass, transparent and unremarkable to look at.</p>
- <p>Your quest has succeeded, for the power of the Lorestone has been transfused into your body and mind. Its strength and wisdom is now a part of you, and the transfusion signals the beginning of a new and deadly challenge on your quest for the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>But be warned! The quest will draw you into a sinister realm where a malicious and terrible evil has grown in power since Sun Eagle first completed the Magnakai quest. If you possess the courage of a true Kai Master, the challenge and the quest await you in Book 7 of the Lone Wolf series entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.07cd;">Castle Death</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta>
- <title>The Stornlands</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="784" height="598" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="784" height="598" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta>
- <title>Action Chart</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="82" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="aclore.gif" width="385" height="199" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Combat Rules Summary</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta>
- <title>Combat Results Table</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta>
- <title>Random Number Table</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta>
- <title>Errata</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta>
- <title>Introduction</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta>
- <title>Errata List</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>disciplines</quote> with <quote>Disciplines</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>Majhan and, for</quote> with <quote>Majhan, and for</quote>, <quote>went but</quote> with <quote>went, but</quote>, <quote>alone and, in</quote> with <quote>alone, and in</quote>, <quote>Magnakai; but</quote> with <quote>Magnakai, but</quote>, <quote>Varetta for</quote> with <quote>Varetta, for</quote>, and <quote>indefinitely and</quote> with <quote>indefinitely, and</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>disciplines</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>scent, and</quote> with <quote>scent and</quote>, <quote>points, and</quote> with <quote>points and</quote>, and <quote>danger, or</quote> with <quote>danger or</quote>. Removed all extraneous spaces between a number and its sign (e.g. replaced <quote>+ 3</quote> with <quote>+3</quote>). Set the list of items in intitial capital letters instead of all capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Capitalized the list of items rather than setting them in all capital letters. Removed <quote> (see front inside cover)</quote>. Replaced <quote>pouch and</quote> with <quote>pouch, and</quote>, <quote>safe keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>, <quote>notes but</quote> with <quote>notes, but</quote>, <quote>effect it</quote> with <quote>effect they</quote>, and <quote>TINDERBOX carried</quote> with <quote>Tinderbox&emdash;carried</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Replaced <quote>to evade combat, but</quote> with <quote>to evade combat but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from <quote>Improved Disciplines</quote> in the last paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Magnakai Wisdom</a>) Replaced <quote>adventures and</quote> with <quote>adventures, and</quote>. Removed <quote> at the front of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>. Moved the Pathmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Replaced <quote>mist but</quote> with <quote>mist, but</quote> and <quote>highway and</quote> with <quote>highway, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) Replaced <quote>table, and</quote> with <quote>table and</quote> and <quote>pulled and</quote> with <quote>pulled, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Reworded the sentence <quote>(Mark this as a Special Item&ellips;)</quote> to match the wording from <a idref="sect16">section 16</a>. The original wording is misleading. Replaced <quote>you but</quote> with <quote>you, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Capitalized each occurrence of the item <quote>Ticket</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>siege works</quote> with <quote>siege-works</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>body and, as</quote> with <quote>body, and as</quote>, <quote>presence and</quote> with <quote>presence, and</quote> and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>invocation and</quote> with <quote>invocation, and</quote>, <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>, and <quote>men but, as</quote> with <quote>men, but as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>manouevre</quote> with <quote>manoeuvre</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Replaced <quote>split or</quote> with <quote>split nor</quote>. Moved the Huntmastery choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>provisions and, as</quote> with <quote>provisions, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>Cyrilus's</quote> with <quote>Cyrilus'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Replaced <quote>pikeheads</quote> with <quote>pike heads</quote>. Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>puddles and</quote> with <quote>puddles, and</quote>, <quote>large shiny</quote> with <quote>large, shiny</quote>, and <quote>rope you</quote> with <quote>rope, you</quote>. Moved the Nexus choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>guildhouse</quote> with <quote>guild-house</quote>. Replaced <quote>hand bells</quote> with <quote>hand-bells</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Replaced <quote>toa-wood and</quote> with <quote>toa-wood, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Replaced <quote>surrounded and</quote> with <quote>surrounded, and</quote>, <quote>shortlived</quote> with <quote>short-lived</quote>, and <quote>resistance and</quote> with <quote>resistance, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>) Replaced <quote>shock but</quote> with <quote>shock, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>four</quote> with <quote>Four</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>toll and</quote> with <quote>toll, and</quote> and <quote>rump, and</quote> with <quote>rump and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>irrisistible</quote> with <quote>irresistible</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Replaced <quote>grave-robber</quote> with <quote>grave robber</quote> and <quote>grave-robbers'</quote> with <quote>grave robbers'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect41">41</a>) Replaced <quote>nature but</quote> with <quote>nature, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>side and</quote> with <quote>side, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) Replaced <quote>bow for, in</quote> with <quote>bow, for in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced <quote>heart and</quote> with <quote>heart, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>knuckleduster</quote> with <quote>knuckle-duster</quote> and <quote>knuckleduster and, judging</quote> with <quote>knuckleduster, and judging</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Deleted a period in the middle of the second sentence.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) In the first choice, replaced <quote>Unless you have already done so, if you wish to approach the merchant&ellips;</quote> with <quote>If you wish to approach the merchant&ellips;</quote> It is actually impossible to have already approached the merchant at this point.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>men and</quote> with <quote>men, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Replaced <quote>guildhouse</quote> with <quote>guild-house</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>old but</quote> with <quote>old, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>truth for</quote> with <quote>truth, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>man and</quote> with <quote>man, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Moved the Curing choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Replaced <quote>war horn</quote> with <quote>war-horn</quote> and <quote>battle frenzy</quote> with <quote>battle-frenzy</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote>animal and</quote> with <quote>animal, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>merchants, but</quote> with <quote>merchants but</quote> and <quote>horses; not</quote> with <quote>horses: not</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>formula but</quote> with <quote>formula, but</quote>, <quote>heavy and</quote> with <quote>heavy, and</quote>, and <quote>awake but</quote> with <quote>awake, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>done and</quote> with <quote>done, and</quote> and <quote>devotion and</quote> with <quote>devotion, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>battle skill</quote> with <quote>battle-skill</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>threat, and</quote> with <quote>threat and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) Replaced <quote>Cyrilus your</quote> with <quote>Cyrilus, your</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>huge lumbering</quote> with <quote>huge, lumbering</quote>, <quote>thick twisted</quote> with <quote>thick, twisted</quote>, <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote>, and <quote>vault and</quote> with <quote>vault, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>slumber but</quote> with <quote>slumber, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>annex but</quote> with <quote>annex, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>chainmail, strides</quote> with <quote>chainmail strides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>QUARTERSTAFFS</quote> with <quote>QUARTERSTAVES</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced <quote>shock and</quote> with <quote>shock, and</quote>, <quote>pikeheads</quote> with <quote>pike heads</quote>, and <quote>breath but</quote> with <quote>breath, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>challenge and</quote> with <quote>challenge, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>Soren and</quote> with <quote>Soren, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>Cyrilus's</quote> with <quote>Cyrilus'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>cracked and</quote> with <quote>cracked, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>now, or</quote> with <quote>now or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Replaced <quote>dead and</quote> with <quote>dead, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>lying and</quote> with <quote>lying, and</quote> and <quote>Chart, before</quote> with <quote>Chart before</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Replaced <quote>heart and, as</quote> with <quote>heart, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>sunset you</quote> with <quote>sunset, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>Rhem and</quote> with <quote>Rhem, and</quote> and <quote>found but</quote> with <quote>found, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>fight they</quote> with <quote>fight, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>Stornland's</quote> with <quote>Stornlands'</quote>, <quote>Sloats</quote> with <quote>sloats</quote>, <quote>companies and</quote> with <quote>companies, and</quote>, <quote>warm and</quote> with <quote>warm, and</quote>, <quote>highway, and</quote> with <quote>highway and</quote>, and <quote>river-boat</quote> with <quote>riverboat</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>them, and</quote> with <quote>them and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>captain and</quote> with <quote>captain, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Replaced <quote>interior but</quote> with <quote>interior, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>lair and</quote> with <quote>lair, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>fatigue and</quote> with <quote>fatigue, and</quote> and <quote>body and</quote> with <quote>body, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>wheel but</quote> with <quote>wheel, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>small flat-faced</quote> with <quote>small, flat-faced</quote> and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>birdsong</quote> with <quote>bird song</quote>, <quote>Cyrilus, 'The</quote> with <quote>Cyrilus. 'The</quote>, <quote>semi-circle</quote> with <quote>semicircle</quote>, and <quote>month and</quote> with <quote>month, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Replaced <quote>pass she</quote> with <quote>pass, she</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>Instictively</quote> with <quote>Instinctively</quote> and <quote>free but</quote> with <quote>free, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>axe</quote> with <quote>Axe</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>) Replaced <quote>Chart), and</quote> with <quote>Chart) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>much-needed</quote> with <quote>much needed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>) Replaced <quote>behind and</quote> with <quote>behind, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect147">147</a>) Replaced <quote>street and</quote> with <quote>street, and</quote> and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>Items, or</quote> with <quote>Items or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Moved the choice regarding having been to the temple of Maaken into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>wall and</quote> with <quote>wall, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>Varetian</quote> with <quote>Varettian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Replaced <quote>unprepared and</quote> with <quote>unprepared, and</quote>, <quote>face, somersaulting</quote> with <quote>face somersaulting</quote>, and <quote>again you</quote> with <quote>again, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>) Replaced <quote>crowd and</quote> with <quote>crowd, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Replaced <quote>deterred and</quote> with <quote>deterred, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Replaced <quote>time and</quote> with <quote>time, and</quote> and <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>wagon but</quote> with <quote>wagon, but</quote> and <quote>bruised but</quote> with <quote>bruised, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>unlocked but</quote> with <quote>unlocked, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>strength and</quote> with <quote>strength, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Replaced <quote>innkeeper, and</quote> with <quote>innkeeper and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect173">173</a>) Replaced <quote>wounds but</quote> with <quote>wounds, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Removed <quote> at the front of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect179">179</a>) Replaced <quote>long cold</quote> with <quote>long, cold</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>pirate and</quote> with <quote>pirate, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>vibrate and</quote> with <quote>vibrate, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Replaced <quote>pikehead</quote> with <quote>pike head</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>) Replaced <quote>ride but</quote> with <quote>ride, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>peril and</quote> with <quote>peril, and</quote> and <quote>end and</quote> with <quote>end, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>points), and</quote> with <quote>points) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect199">199</a>) Deleted a period after <quote>He asks</quote> in the last sentence.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>open and, as</quote> with <quote>open, and as</quote>, <quote>chill stale</quote> with <quote>chill, stale</quote>, and <quote>key but</quote> with <quote>key, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>much-needed</quote> with <quote>much needed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>company and</quote> with <quote>company, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) Replaced <quote>copse, and</quote> with <quote>copse and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>face but, forewarned</quote> with <quote>face, but forewarned</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>head and, likewise,</quote> with <quote>head, and likewise,</quote>, <quote>company and, as</quote> with <quote>company, and as</quote>, <quote>point and</quote> with <quote>point, and</quote>, and <quote>fighters and</quote> with <quote>fighters, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Replaced <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced <quote>Baknar or Kalkoth</quote> with <quote>baknar or kalkoth</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>stones but</quote> with <quote>stones, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>) Replaced <quote>arena for</quote> with <quote>arena, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>Chart, before</quote> with <quote>Chart before</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>) Replaced <quote>aid but</quote> with <quote>aid, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced <quote>archers and</quote> with <quote>archers, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>guardedness and</quote> with <quote>guardedness, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>small piggish</quote> with <quote>small, piggish</quote> and <quote>Chart), and</quote> with <quote>Chart) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Replaced <quote>aside and</quote> with <quote>aside, and</quote> and <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>dead and</quote> with <quote>dead, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>horsemen but</quote> with <quote>horsemen, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) Replaced <quote>place but</quote> with <quote>place, but</quote> and <quote>darkness and</quote> with <quote>darkness, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>ceiling but</quote> with <quote>ceiling, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>any, and</quote> with <quote>any and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>rest but</quote> with <quote>rest, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) Replaced <quote>hard unyielding</quote> with <quote>hard, unyielding</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>seconds but</quote> with <quote>seconds, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Moved the Divination choice into the first position. Replaced <quote>guildhouse</quote> with <quote>guild-house</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>bodyguards and</quote> with <quote>bodyguards, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Replaced <quote>competition and</quote> with <quote>competition, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>east and</quote> with <quote>east, and</quote>. Moved the Curing choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect273">273</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>..</quote> with <quote>&ellips;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect274">274</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>warhammer and</quote> with <quote>warhammer, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>lightning fast</quote> with <quote>lightning-fast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect278">278</a>) Replaced <quote>feet but</quote> with <quote>feet, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Replaced <quote>doors and</quote> with <quote>doors, and</quote>, <quote>building and</quote> with <quote>building, and</quote>, and <quote>battle but, unlike</quote> with <quote>battle, but unlike</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>) Replaced <quote>power your</quote> with <quote>power, your</quote>, <quote>ground and</quote> with <quote>ground, and</quote>, <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>, and <quote>attack you</quote> with <quote>attack, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced <quote>huge fat-bellied</quote> with <quote>huge, fat-bellied</quote> and <quote>men and</quote> with <quote>men, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>cover and</quote> with <quote>cover, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) Replaced <quote>here but</quote> with <quote>here, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Replaced <quote>esteem for</quote> with <quote>esteem, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>) Replaced <quote>siegeworks</quote> with <quote>siege-works</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Replaced <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Switched the section numbers given for the two choices to be consistent with the choices in <a idref="sect151">Section 151</a> and the text of <a idref="sect67">Sections 67</a> and <a idref="sect108">108</a>. Replaced <quote>men and</quote> with <quote>men, and</quote> and <quote>forever but</quote> with <quote>forever, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>) Replaced <quote>charge but</quote> with <quote>charge, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>target but</quote> with <quote>target, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>plunder but</quote> with <quote>plunder, but</quote> and <quote>mercenaries but</quote> with <quote>mercenaries, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>you but</quote> with <quote>you, but</quote>. Moved the Huntmastery choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>city you</quote> with <quote>city, you</quote> and <quote>hall there</quote> with <quote>hall, there</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Replaced <quote>Varetta, or</quote> with <quote>Varetta or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>Chart), and</quote> with <quote>Chart) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>today and</quote> with <quote>today, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced <quote>T'is</quote> with <quote>'Tis</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>However the</quote> with <quote>However, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>) Replaced <quote>points), and</quote> with <quote>points) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>procession are</quote> with <quote>procession is</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Moved the choice regarding handing over all Gold Crowns into the last position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect317">317</a>) Replaced <quote>surrounded and</quote> with <quote>surrounded, and</quote> and <quote>unconscious and</quote> with <quote>unconscious, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>east and</quote> with <quote>east, and</quote> and <quote>direction you</quote> with <quote>direction, you</quote>. Moved the Animal Control choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Replaced <quote>Varetta and</quote> with <quote>Varetta, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>guard and</quote> with <quote>guard, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>) Replaced <quote>workshop but</quote> with <quote>workshop, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>fades and</quote> with <quote>fades, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>Chart), and</quote> with <quote>Chart) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote> and <quote>wounded and</quote> with <quote>wounded, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>village and, although</quote> with <quote>village, and although</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect331">331</a>) Replaced <quote>way, and</quote> with <quote>way and</quote>, <quote>horizon you</quote> with <quote>horizon, you</quote>, and <quote>streets and</quote> with <quote>streets, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Replaced <quote>barge and</quote> with <quote>barge, and</quote>. Moved the choice regarding having no Gold Crowns into the first position. Moved the Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the second position and replaced <quote>If</quote> with <quote>Otherwise, if</quote> in that choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Replaced <quote>huge lumbering</quote> with <quote>huge, lumbering</quote> and <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote>. Moved the bow choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Replaced <quote>surrounded and</quote> with <quote>surrounded, and</quote>, <quote>shortlived</quote> with <quote>short-lived</quote>, and <quote>completely and, as</quote> with <quote>completely, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Replaced <quote>If you possess a Kalte Firesphere, a Torch, or a Tinderbox</quote> with <quote>If you possess a Kalte Firesphere or a Torch and a Tinderbox</quote> A Torch is unusable without a Tinderbox; this parallels wording in sections from future Lone Wolf books. Replaced <quote>Firesphere, a Torch, or a Tinderbox,</quote> with <quote>Firesphere or a Torch and a Tinderbox,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>jerkin, enters</quote> with <quote>jerkin enters</quote> and <quote>field are</quote> with <quote>field is</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>matron, as</quote> with <quote>matron as</quote>, <quote>Alether plant</quote> with <quote>alether plant</quote>, <quote>Alether berries</quote> with <quote>Alether Berries</quote>, and <quote>another, and</quote> with <quote>another and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced <quote>Swords and, as</quote> with <quote>Swords, and as</quote>. Moved the Huntmastery choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>manouevre</quote> with <quote>manoeuvre</quote> and <quote>secure and</quote> with <quote>secure, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) Replaced <quote>spongy and</quote> with <quote>spongy, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>appears and</quote> with <quote>appears, and</quote>, <quote>fade you</quote> with <quote>fade, you</quote>, and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta>
- <title>Footnotes</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Remember that you are looking at individual jars and are thus limited to one of each potion (if you can afford to buy and have space carry them).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) For this Combat, you may not gain bonuses from a Shield or any weapon other than a Bow. In this case, Weaponmastery with Bow grants you the 3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus points that Weaponmastery with melee weapons normally grants, rather than adding 3 to each Random Number pick (which would not work for the Combat Results Table). Other restrictions may apply, depending on your interpretation of the rules.</p>
- <p>If you are using the Jakan and pick a 0 from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> at any time,<a idref="sect335"> turn immediately to 335</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) In later Lone Wolf books, Random Number picks that indicate <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> losses interpret a pick of <quote>0</quote> as a loss of 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than zero. This may or may not be the author's intent in this passage.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) You must still win the combat before <a idref="sect87">turning to 87</a> if the fight lasts longer than three rounds.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) You should deduct the Meal from your Backpack immediately if you decide to head to your room. The ensuing sections will make it clear why this is.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) In all other instances where this bow is mentioned, it is referred to as the <quote>Silver Bow of Duadon</quote>, and treated as a weapon-like Special Item rather than a Weapon. The 3-point bonus to your Random Number picks when using this bow can be added to the 3-point bonus you may already have with Weaponmastery with Bow for a total of 6 points. As with the bonus for Weaponmastery with Bow, you may only add this bonus when determining the success of an bow shot.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) If you are using the Sommerswerd, you may double the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses of your enemy due to the power of the Sommerswerd against the undead.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) The penalty for picking a 0 only applies during the second portion of the tournament.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) In this case, the Weaponmastery with Bow bonus is added once to the entire total of three picks, not to each pick.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta>
- <title>Table of Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta>
- <title>Primary Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect11">Section 11</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect26">Section 26</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect47">Section 47</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect63">Section 63</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect71">Section 71</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect77">Section 77</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect100">Section 100</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect116">Section 116</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect127">Section 127</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect151">Section 151</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect164">Section 164</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect188">Section 188</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect219">Section 219</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect232">Section 232</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect258">Section 258</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect270">Section 270</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect279">Section 279</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect286">Section 286</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect324">Section 324</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Stornlands</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta>
- <title>Secondary Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect5">Section 5</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect6">Section 6</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect15">Section 15</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect73">Section 73</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect79">Section 79</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect119">Section 119</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect125">Section 125</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect126">Section 126</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect139">Section 139</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect204">Section 204</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect211">Section 211</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect300">Section 300</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect341">Section 341</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta>
- <title>Project Aon License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta>
- <title>0. Preamble</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta>
- <title>1. Definitions</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta>
- <title>1.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta>
- <title>1.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta>
- <title>1.2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta>
- <title>1.3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta>
- <title>1.4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta>
- <title>1.5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta>
- <title>1.6</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta>
- <title>1.7</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta>
- <title>2. Terms of Distribution</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta>
- <title>2.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta>
- <title>2.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta>
- <title>2.2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta>
- <title>2.3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta>
- <title>2.4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta>
- <title>2.5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta>
- <title>3. Termination of the License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta>
- <title>3.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta>
- <title>3.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta>
- <title>4. Jurisdiction</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta>
- <title>4.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta>
- <title>5. Revision of the License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta>
- <title>5.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta>
- <title>6. NO WARRANTY</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta>
- <title>6.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta>
- <title>6.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-</gamebook>
+++ /dev/null
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-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd" [
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.characters SYSTEM "htmlchar.mod">
- <!ENTITY % latex.characters SYSTEM "ltexchar.mod">
- %xhtml.characters;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.links SYSTEM "genlink.mod">
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-
-<gamebook xml:lang="en-UK" version="0.11">
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
-Adding Paul Haskell as an Illustration Transcriptionist
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.4 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.3 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/12/04 20:34:24 jblake
-XMl cleanup. Still needs errata list.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/12/03 20:47:34 twolmer
-
-WOLM continously: fix XML transformation errors, note errata
-WOLM action 1: replaces apostrophes with <quote>s and 's
-WOLM action 2: inserted footnotes
-WOLM action 3: fixed character attributes, replaced various dashes with character entities, removed shortname
-WOLM action 4: inserted large illustrations
-WOLM action 5: inserted most of the extramatter
-WOLM action 6: validate and correct the faults
-WOLM what still missing: errata in the backmatter, the secondary illustrations, the list of secondary illustrations
-
-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>Castle Death</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br/>Illustrated by Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Gary Chalk</strong>, the illustrator of the early Lone Wolf series, was born in 1952, grew up in Hertfordshire, England. Being interested in history, he began playing war games at the age of fifteen. When he graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in design, Gary spent three years training in a studio before becoming a teacher in art and design.</p>
- <p>Gary was working as a children's book illustrator when he became involved in adventure gaming, an interest which eventually led to the creation of several successful games. He is the inventor/illustrator of some of Britain's biggest-selling fantasy games including Cry Havoc, Starship Captain and Battlecars (co-designed with Ian Livingstone). He is also known for his work on the very successful game, Talisman.</p>
- <p>Gary was working at Games Workshop when Joe Dever asked him to illustrate some of his manuscript of Flight from the Dark. The two teamed up after that and, they continued to work together until the eighth book in the series, <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>.</p>
- <p>Gary has also drawn the illustrations in <cite>Redwall</cite> and related books, <cite>The Prince of Shadows</cite> gamebook series, and several books which he also authored. Gary continues to enjoy war gaming and works as an illustrator and model maker. He maintains a <a href="&link.gary.chalk.website;">website</a> with examples of his work.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies the Darklords of Helgedad. You have given your solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, ensuring the security of your land in the years to come.</p>
- <p>Diligent study of the tome called <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite> has enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. Now, you must fulfil your pledge by completing the quest first undertaken by <cite>Sun Eagle</cite> over one thousand years ago.</p>
- <p>It is a quest that will take you deep into Castle Death&emdash;a dangerous journey not completed successfully since the time of the <cite>Sun Eagle</cite>.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1986 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1986 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta/>
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title"/>
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">To all the members of the Lone Wolf Club&emdash;<br />may their endurance never run out!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate"/>
- <link class="next" idref="tssf"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai&ellips;</quote>
- <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta>
- <title>Credits</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Paul Haskell<br/>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Michael Hahn (map)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Michael Norton (sections 176&endash;210)<br />Simon Osborne (sections 71&endash;105, 246&endash;280 and 316&endash;350)<br />Matthew Reynolds (sections 1&endash;70, 141&endash;175, 211&endash;245 and 281&endash;315)<br />Tony Wrigley (sections 106&endash;140)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br/>Matthew Reynolds<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Alfred Hailey</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg"/>
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <!-- WOLM: There were some obviously missing quote signs in our first published text. I inserted them -->
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies, the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Many centuries have passed since Sun Eagle, the first of your kind, established the Order of the Kai. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he completed a perilous quest to find seven crystals of power known as the Lorestones of Nyxator. With their discovery he unlocked a wisdom and strength that lay within both the Lorestones and himself. He recorded the nature of his discoveries and his experiences in a great tome called <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>. You have discovered this lost Kai treasure and have given a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. However, your diligent study of this ancient book has enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. To fulfil your pledge, you must complete the quest first undertaken by Sun Eagle over one thousand years ago. By doing so successfully, you too, will acquire the power and wisdom of the Magnakai that is held within the Lorestones' crystal forms.</p>
- <p>Much of Sun Eagle's script had faded with the passing years and little remained to help you find the seven Lorestones of Nyxator. Guided by the few words that could still be deciphered, you set out upon a journey that took you to the war-torn city of Tekaro in the hostile land of Slovia. There, hidden deep in the crypt of the city's cathedral, you found the first Lorestone of Varetta. As you held the crystal triumphantly in your hand, its power was transfused into your being, and the location of the second stone formed slowly in your mind&emdash;Herdos.</p>
- <p>The remote township of Herdos stands upon the shore of Lake Khor, high in the Xulun mountains of Dessi. Here the Elder Magi, the magicians who rule the land, helped Sun Eagle on his quest long ago. Time has turned full circle, and once more their aid is sought by a warrior of the Kai.</p>
- <p><quote>Fate has brought you to us, Lone Wolf,</quote> intones Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi, as you stand before them in the Tower of Truth at Elzian. <quote>And our fate is bound to your quest.</quote></p>
- <p>His clear voice fills the great cylindrical council chamber and the white-robed elders gathered around you respond with one voice, <quote>It is so.</quote></p>
- <p>Rimoah leads you to a circular dais, set like a deep well into the green marble floor. Carefully, he kneels and touches its liquid metal surface with his gloved hand. A current flows through the shimmering metal and, within its mirror-like depths, a strange vision slowly takes shape. You see a black-walled fortress set upon a rocky isle, its deep purple shadows reflecting in the dark waters of a moonlit lake.</p>
- <p><quote>You see before you Kazan-Oud. The Lorestone of Herdos rests in this castle, deep within its accursed halls. We will take you to this fortress, Lone Wolf, but you must enter alone, for our powers hold no sway over the forces that command this terrible place. In the years that have passed since Sun Eagle first came to this land, a great evil has consumed Kazan-Oud. We lack the means to destroy this evil but we have laboured to contain it, to prevent it from spreading beyond the Isle of Khor. Some of the bravest warriors of Magnamund have tried at our behest to defeat the power of Kazan-Oud, yet all have perished. But fate now brings us a Kai Master and our hearts rejoice, for the success of your quest will defeat the bane of Kazan-Oud and deliver us all from its evil shadow.</quote></p>
- <p>A ripple of hopeful whispers arises from the circle of Elders when they hear you state that you will go to Kazan-Oud. As they accompany you from the council chamber to equip you for the dangerous mission that lies ahead, you ask the meaning of the words <foreign xml:lang="x-unknown"><quote>Kazan-Oud</quote></foreign>. An uneasy silence descends on the dignified company and all eyes turn to Rimoah.</p>
- <p><quote>In the language of the Sommlending,</quote> he says, his voice wavering, <quote>Castle Death.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf"/>
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 7. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You many choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (Books 6&endash;12).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta>
- <title>Weaponmastery</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278"/>
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with three weapons does not mean that you begin the adventure carrying any of them. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons during your adventure. For every Lone Wolf book that you complete in the Magnakai series, you may add an additional weapon to your list.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta>
- <title>Animal Control</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta>
- <title>Curing</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta>
- <title>Invisibility</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta>
- <title>Huntmastery</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta>
- <title>Pathsmanship</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta>
- <title>Psi-surge</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but −2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta>
- <title>Psi-screen</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta>
- <title>Nexus</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta>
- <title>Divination</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 7 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.08tjoh;">Book 8</a>. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, which is called <cite><a href="&link.08tjoh;">The Jungle of Horrors</a>
- </cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Elzian on your quest for the Lorestone of Herdos, the Elder Magi give you a <a idref="map">map of their land</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed books 1&endash;6 of the Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. You can carry a maximum of only fifty Crowns, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>The Elder Magi offer you a choice of equipment to aid you on your perilous mission. You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two weapons and eight Backpack Items.</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="311" height="77"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="311" height="77"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="156" height="39"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="156" height="39"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="laumspur.gif" width="156" height="66"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="laumspur.pdf" width="156" height="66"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Lantern (Backpack Items)</p></li>
- <li><p>Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>3 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="meals.gif" width="156" height="39"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="meals.pdf" width="156" height="39"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Dagger (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>3 Fireseeds (Special Items) When thrown against a hard surface, these Fireseeds explode and burn fiercely.</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Carry Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Lantern&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Fireseeds&emdash;carried in your pocket.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta>
- <title>How Much Can You Carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
-
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd><p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p></dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Dessi is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. Whenever you kill an enemy and search the body, you may take any Gold Crowns that you find and put them in your Belt Pouch. (Remember the pouch can carry a maximum of fifty Gold Crowns.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt"/>
- <link class="next" idref="levels"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as −3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels"/>
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl"/>
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will steadily improve. If you are a Kai Master that has reached the rank of Primate, you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="primate">
- <meta>
- <title>Primate</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Magnakai Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc"/>
- <link class="next" idref="sect1"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quest for the Lorestone of Herdos will be fraught with danger for the fortress of Kazan-Oud has a dark and sinister reputation for being the ruin of many a brave adventurer. Make notes as you progress through the story&emdash;they will be of great help in this and future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will help you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures, and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice enables any player to complete the quest no matter how weak his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.</p>
- <p>May the spirit of your ancestors guide you on the path of the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta>
- <title>Numbered Sections</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hours leading up to your departure from Elzian are spent checking and double-checking your equipment and provisions. But, no matter how hard you try to concentrate on these preparations, your mind is constantly invaded by the shadowy image of Kazan-Oud, an image identical to the vision that appeared the previous evening in the well of the council chamber. You are filled with a deep dread, as you contemplate the probable site of your own grave. However, coupled to this terrible sense of foreboding is a far greater and irresistible desire to discover the Lorestone of Herdos.</p>
- <p>Shortly before dawn, your thoughts are disturbed by a knock at the door of your chamber: it is Rimoah. The time has come for your mission to begin. You follow him through halls and galleries to a rooftop platform nestling among the crimson towers of the Temple of Truth. Here you are greeted by a young man. He is tall and dark-skinned, with plaited flaxen hair and sharp, cat-like eyes, and he wears the gold and scarlet tunic of a Vakeros&emdash;a warrior-magician of Dessi. <quote>Hail, Paido!</quote> says Rimoah, bowing to this proud young man.</p>
- <p><quote>Hail, my Lord Rimoah,</quote> he replies, respectfully. <quote>We are ready to sail.</quote></p>
- <p>The first rays of the dawn light shimmer along the golden hull of a magnificent sky-ship that hovers above the rooftop platform. As the hum of its powerful engine rises, you thank Rimoah and bid him farewell before following Lord Paido to the boarding ladder at the edge of the platform. Once safely on board, the sky-ship rises into the chill dawn air, and Lord Rimoah and the Tower of Truth shrink swiftly beneath its golden keel. You look down with growing fascination as the sleek, bat-winged craft passes over the circling waters of the Elzian Canal and speeds northwards above the jungle of central Dessi. As the grey chasm of Gorgoron looms into view, splitting the emerald-green land like a deep and terrible wound, Lord Paido joins you at the rail. Time passes in conversation, and you learn much about the people of this untamed land and their history. You learn that the Elder Magi are all that remain of a race of great magicians who ruled central Magnamund many thousands of years ago. They were wise and powerful, and their leadership was great until their numbers were decimated by a plague that swept across the world. Those who survived sought refuge in Dessi and have lived here, in the mountains and the jungle, ever since. The Vakeros are native soldiers of Dessi who have been taught the art of battle-magic by the Elder Magi to help them defend the northern border against invasion by the war-like Vassagonians.</p>
- <p>When you tell Lord Paido of your own past battles with the desert warriors, you sense a sadness within him. <quote>How I wish my brother Kasin were here with us now,</quote> he says, staring thoughtfully towards the distant horizon. <quote>He could tell many a brave tale of the great desert wars.</quote> You ask what has become of his brother. There is a long pause before he replies solemnly: <quote>Kazan-Oud.</quote></p>
- <p>The land of Dessi is now spread out beneath you like a gigantic map. To the north-west you can see the foothills of the Carcos range and a faint ribbon-like glimmer that is the River Doi; to the east, a bank of grey storm clouds advances unchecked across a sea of jungle vegetation. Shortly before noon you sight your destination. The low-domed buildings of Herdos appear on the horizon, followed by the waters of Lake Khor and a blackened finger of rock upon which sits Kazan-Oud. Even at this great distance, the awesome sight of the terrible fortress sends a chill along your spine.</p>
- <p>Lord Paido orders his crew to prepare for landing, and within the hour, the great sky-ship is casting its shadow upon the flagstones of the Plaza of Herdos. You are welcomed by Lord Ardan, Elder of Herdos, and a detachment of his Vakeros guards. They escort you through the streets of the ancient town, past the tiny stone-walled dwellings of fishermen and miners, to a quay where a glass-domed tower several storeys high commands access to the busy harbour. As you enter the tower, you notice that the glass dome radiates a greenish light that, in spite of the blinding glare of the midday sun, can be seen quite clearly.</p>
- <p>Later, as the sun sinks slowly behind the peaks of the mountains, the light emanating from the tower becomes more visible, covering Lake Khor with an umbrella of ghostly luminescence. Lord Ardan explains: <quote>This tower, together with five others that encircle the lake, generates a shield of magical energy that imprisons the evil of Kazan-Oud. No creature, living or dead, can enter or leave the Isle of Khor so long as our shield remains intact. We dare not lower our guard, and, to allow you to land on the island, we have devised a means by which you may pass through the shield unharmed.</quote> He takes a gem the size of a small apple from the pocket of his silken robe and places it in your hand. It is a dull translucent red, but within its core a swirling mist of glittering sparks flickers with gold and silver fire.</p>
- <p><quote>It is a Power-key. Guard it well, for so long as you possess it you may fulfil your quest; lose it and you will never escape from the Isle of Khor.</quote> (Mark the Power-key on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, which you carry in the pocket of your tunic.) <quote>At midnight, my Vakeros will take you by boat to the edge of the shield. On board is a small coracle in which you can pass through the shield and make your way to the Isle of Khor. We shall pray for you, Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>Midnight finds you standing on the deck of a square-rigged fishing boat The sighing night wind and the creak of rope and timber are the only sounds that accompany you across the black waters of Lake Khor. You arrive at a wall of shimmering, green light: the power-shield. The Vakeros whisper their goodbyes, and you paddle through the wall, drawing closer with every stroke to the sinister island fortress.</p>
- <p>Two hundred yards from the glistening black shoreline, you note two places where you can make a landing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to land at a stone jetty to the west of Kazan-Oud, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to land at a sheltered bay to the east of Kazan-Oud, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your eye is drawn to a panel on the hexagonal wall. The central part of the stonework is much newer than the surrounding edges, a detail which your Magnakai Discipline enabled you to recognize at a glance. After closer examination, you are sure that there was once a door in this wall. The stone does not sound as if it is solid when you tap it, and you suspect it would not withstand several well-placed blows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to try to break through the wall, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you do not wish to break through the wall, you can still enter the ruby corridor <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">Or, you can enter the jadin corridor; <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rumble of a massive counterweight descending behind the wall sends a shudder through the flagstones. The portcullis rises and you hear the lever click back to its original position as you duck under the pointed bars.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="260" height="136" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="260" height="136" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lungs are close to the bursting point when your persistence finally pays off. The lock clicks and the door is forced wide open by the sheer weight of the water pressing upon it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shadow flares red before dissolving into a dense grey mist that is carried away swiftly on the stormy air. A sudden chill makes you shiver. You pull your cloak around you, taking comfort from its warmth, but it is as if the cold comes not from the damp wind but from somewhere deep inside you.</p>
- <p>You feel hungry and you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. When you have finished, you make a quick check of your equipment before taking your first cautious steps inside the Great Hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Good!</quote> booms the voice of Zahda, as you land on the opposite side of the pit. <quote>You are brave! But have you brains as well as battle-brawn, I wonder? Ha! Soon we shall see.</quote></p>
- <p>The voice conjures an image of Lord Zahda in your mind. He is seated on a golden throne with the object of your quest, the Lorestone of Herdos, suspended in the air above him. You resolve to survive this accursed maze and escape. If you can then only find your way back to Zahda's throne hall, the success of your quest will be within your grasp.</p>
- <p>You walk along the passage that leads away from the pit, your mind filled with dismay as you contemplate the problems and perils that lie before you. One such problem looms into view as the passage takes a sharp turn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your horror, you discover that the quiver is completely empty. Your arrows have fallen out and lie buried in the nest of vegetation upon which you awoke (erase these arrows from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>With a cry of frustration, you discard your bow and unsheathe a hand weapon as the snake draws itself back in preparation to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As it springs out of the gloom, you hack at the beast, carving a slice from its great hairy shoulder. But the shock of its attack sends you reeling to the floor, and you scream out in pained surprise. Claws rake your arm; burning saliva stings your face. Desperately, you stab at the snarling beast as it dips its head and closes its massive jaws around your legs. The creature is immune to Mindblast but <em>not</em> Psi-surge.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hound of Death</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A faint rumble grows louder. There is a clatter of chains and the squeal of metal on metal as the portcullis rises jerkily into the roof. Wasting no time, you duck under the spiked bars and hurry into the tunnel beyond.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="260" height="136" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="260" height="136" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Grabbing a Fireseed from the pocket of your tunic, you hurl it at the monster's gaping mouth. It disappears from view, and for a brief moment, you feel the tendril tremble and slacken its crushing grip. Erase one Fireseed from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Descending the narrow staircase, you arrive at a tunnel-like corridor, sandwiched between two walls of mouldering masonry. Foul, oily water gurgles along a channel in the slippery floor towards a distant archway, which is blocked by a black, iron portcullis. Bolted to the criss-crossed bars is a plaque which bears a curious design:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="284" height="167" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="284" height="167" />
- </illustration>
- <p>On the wall to your left is a large, rusty dial with a brass pointer. Set around it, like the numerals of a clock, are the numbers 1 to 40, and below the dial is a lever. Your basic Kai instincts tell you that by selecting the correct number, or numbers, and pulling the lever, you will open the portcullis.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you have neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We're as good as dead if we stay here,</quote> says the warrior in a broad Stornlands accent. <quote>Come, we best find ourselves a safe tunnel before they release a Trakka. We'll have a horde of Zahda's pets snappin' at our heels if it picks up our scent.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow the man through a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers; descending by slope and staircase to deeper levels of this subterranean world. Not a word is spoken until, finally, you stop to rest in a small, musty chamber, its entrance is partially hidden behind a rockfall of scarlet stone. <quote>How long have you been tunnel-running?</quote> your companion asks. When you reply that you've been in Kazan-Oud no more than a few hours, his face registers a look of surprise followed by disappointment. <quote>I'd have stood and fought the Dhax had I known I was so near to the surface,</quote> he says, shaking his head and staring dejectedly at the floor.</p>
- <p>He tells you that his name is Tavig and that he comes from Suentina, a city in the western land of Slovia. Over a year ago his sister was captured by Sadzar, the slaver of Gzor, when a ship on which she was a passenger was attacked by his pirate fleet off the island of Lio. One thousand Crowns was the ransom Sadzar placed on her head, and Tavig vowed he would raise the gold and save his sister or die in the attempt. Undaunted by the rumours he had heard, he travelled to Herdos to offer his services to the Elder Magi, to attempt the destruction of the evil that haunts Kazan-Oud, in return for his sister's ransom. They agreed to his price, as they had agreed to scores of others' before him, and sent him through the power-shield with their hopes and prayers for success. That was one year ago.</p>
- <p><quote>One man alone could never hope to destroy Zahda, he who commands this fortress, for his power has grown greater than the Elders imagine. I tried and I failed. Twice I've been captured and twice I've escaped from his maze, and now my only wish is to escape from this fortress of nightmares. I'm a tunnel-runner, a survivor, a fugitive from Zahda's law, but I fear my time has nearly run out.</quote></p>
- <p>Drawing his sword, Tavig walks to the entrance and peers into the corridor outside. <quote>Luck be on your side, stranger,</quote> he says, and hurries away. You call out for him to wait, to tell you more of what he has learnt of Kazan-Oud, but your pleas go unanswered as he disappears into the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to follow him, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you decide to continue alone, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect13-1-foot" idref="sect13-1">
- <p>This section is the correct answer to the dial problem from <a idref="sect306">section 306</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shriek of metal on metal reverberates along the tunnel as great iron cogs grind into action.<a id="sect13-1" idref="sect13-1-foot" class="footnote"/> Slowly, the portcullis rises into the roof. Wasting no time, you duck beneath the pointed bars and hurry into the passage beyond.</p>
- <p>Rats flee, squeaking, as you stalk along the slippery flagstones. You wince as their claws rasp on the wet rock and their hairless tails furrow the stinking green slime that covers the surface of the tunnel floor. The passage widens as it approaches a staircase that leads down. Halfway down the stairs you disturb a colony of bats nesting in the ceiling. They squeal angrily and whirl around your head, battering you with their wings and nipping at your face with their sharp, needle-like teeth.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Halfway down the stairs you disturb a<br/>colony of bats nesting in the ceiling</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="648"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="648"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control or Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you have neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brick slides in and the secret door slides open. Before you stands an ugly, bearded dwarf, wearing a grimy black velvet jerkin. His pig-eyes twinkle malevolently as he raises a hollow brass tube and points it at your face.</p>
- <p><quote>Sweet dreams,</quote> he cackles, and a blast of icy-cold vapour shoots from the tip, catching you squarely in the face. You reel back, coughing and choking as the bitter vapour fills your lungs. By the time you realize that you have inhaled a powerful sleep gas, your body is already succumbing to its irresistible power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin a screw-like handle set in the centre of the door, releasing the lock. You open the door and enter: inside, you discover a room of steel. The walls, ceiling and floor are all constructed of metal plate, which is polished to give a mirror-like shine. Low, iron tables are set out with the implements and accessories of magic: crucibles, retorts, aludels, flasks and all manner of twisting glass tubes, which bubble and seethe with multi-coloured liquids. Vellum-bound tomes and crumbling parchments litter the shelves, competing for space with repulsive-looking pink organs floating in glass jars of vile-smelling preservative. Quickly you scan the shelves in search of useful items and, to your delight, rediscover all your confiscated weapons. (Re-enter on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> everything that was taken from you before you were sent to the maze.)</p>
- <p>In addition to your weapons, you discover a large jar of concentrated Laumspur (restores 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and a Platinum Amulet. If you wish to take the Amulet, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, which you wear on your wrist. It will protect you from injury due to exposure to high temperatures.</p>
- <p>Elated by the rediscovery of your equipment, you leave the chamber and press on along the shiny steel tube.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes a few minutes for you to get your bearings in the gloom of the narrow corridor. Outside, strange sounds echo across the beach, making you forget your natural caution and move deeper into the darkness. The uneven floor is coated with mud, and the warm, moist air reeks with a repugnant odour that reminds you of gutted fish. You press on, taking great pains not to slip and fall, but the light soon fades completely and you slow to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern or a Torch and Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you do not possess any of these Items, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A movement at the end of the corridor warns you that more guards are entering the sarcophagus, alerted no doubt by the noise of combat. Rather than be caught without cover in this narrow corridor, you decide to enter the chamber and attempt to escape along the opposite passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the words of the skull reverberating in your mind, you pull out the cork with your teeth and shake the liquid into the pit, spreading it in a wide arc from left to right. You are certain that there is an invisible bridge across the pit; if only you could locate it.</p>
- <p>The footsteps halt. You hear a piercing crack, like that of a whip, and, immediately afterwards, an angry red weal opens around your wrist (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The container spins from your hand and seems to bounce in mid-air before dropping into the void. You have found the bridge! But now you have an invisible enemy to contend with.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to step on to the invisible bridge, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to fight your unseen enemy, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shadow crosses your path and you release the bowstring, but your arrow does not find its mark. A ghoulish howl is the only warning you receive before the creatures leap out of the billowing smoke, clawing and biting at your face and arms.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dhax</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first two rounds of combat, due to the speed and surprise of your enemy's attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">You may evade combat after three rounds by running into the archway opposite; <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you win combat, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage leads to an enormous compound of cells that holds the slaves of Kazan-Oud. They are, in the main, a pitiful herd of gangling, black-skinned creatures, with sorrowful eyes and backs bent crooked by years of hard labour. These prisoners press their sad faces against the tiny grates of their cells, curious to see the fair-skinned warrior who walks upright among them.</p>
- <p>They hiss as you pass until the entire complex echoes to the sound of their sibilant scorn. At the end of the block, there is a cell that resembles a cage, denying its prisoner even the small degree of privacy provided by the others. You stare through the bars at a dark-skinned man sleeping on the straw-covered floor. His blond hair and red and gold tunic are stained with blood and grime. A key to his cell hangs by a cord on a peg driven into the nearby wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to take the key and release him, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you prefer to leave him and continue, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A maniacal scream of anger echoes from behind the grating as the giant snake crashes lifelessly to the ground. Suddenly bolts of red fire are raining down all around you, splintering the stone floor and leaving nothing but molten cinders wherever they strike. You clamber across the snake and dive into the tunnel to avoid this rain of crimson death.</p>
- <p>To your dismay, you discover the tunnel is no more than a shallow cave, a shelter for a clutch of eggs, each one no smaller than a barrel of ale. They rest upon a bed of packs and torn clothing, the last remains of adventurers who fell foul of the traps of Kazan-Oud.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to examine these items more closely, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to look for a way of escape from this tunnel, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Rahkos lies motionless on the ground before you, but, in spite of the many blows you have dealt the creature, it bears no sign of having ever been involved in combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you wish to turn your back on the hand and enter the passage ahead, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to take a closer look at the hand, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone blocks of a fallen tower lie scattered in an uneven line across the beach, like the vertebrae of a long dead giant. Lightning flashes and you see in the battlements of Kazan-Oud a wide breach in the wall where the tower once stood. A stone staircase rises from the beach to the top of the ruined wall, but sections of it are missing, presumably torn away when the tower collapsed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you wish to attempt to climb the stairs to the fortress, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you prefer to continue along the beach, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After what seems like an hour, but in reality is only a few minutes at the most, the scorching heat subsides and the tunnel air becomes painless to breathe. You press on and soon arrive at an archway, where the shiny steel tube enters a chamber gouged out of solid black iron. There a spiral staircase ascends to a portal. You climb the stairs and peer out through the portal. A sight greets you that sets your pulse racing. Before you stands a gleaming block of solid gold&emdash;the back of Lord Zahda's throne. Above it, hovering motionless in the air, are two perfect crystals: one glows darkly with black fire; the other radiates a pure golden light that sends a shiver down your spine. It is the object of your quest&emdash;the Lorestone of Herdos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to reach up and take the Lorestone, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to attack the black crystal, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you prefer to examine the throne, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses scream a warning that this object is evil. A powerful spell of shielding has been placed upon it to conceal its true purpose, but your mastery of the psychic disciplines helps you to overcome this barrier. It is a means by which its sorcerous creator may exert his control over any who touch it or gaze upon it.</p>
- <p>A coldness probes your mind, like fingers of ice seeking to crush your will, but your Psi-screen melts the numbing grip of this psychic attack. You lash out with your foot and send the Sceptre spinning into the chasm. There is a silence, then a dull boom, like distant thunder, reverberates in the abyss far below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you now wish to enter the east tunnel, from which the Dhax appeared, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you prefer to enter the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The inner surface of the bubble is lined with globules of transparent fat, which absorb the force of your blows.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with sword, deduct 2 from this figure. The final number equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose owing to lack of oxygen before you cut your way free from the transparent prison.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you survive the ordeal, you can cut your way through the rest of the bubbles; <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stepping carefully through the slime-smeared rubble, you stop for a moment to catch your breath and survey the shattered keep of Kazan-Oud. It is a desolate sight. Only stone buildings remain intact, and everything is covered with creepers and mildew. A great fire must have ravaged the inner fortress to have resulted in such total devastation.</p>
- <p>In the centre of the keep stands the Great Hall, still an imposing stronghold and made all the more frightening by the constant flash of green lightning. Beyond its burnt and fungus-covered wooden door, twisted tree forms, with sharp, barbed thorns, sprawl across the cracked flagstones like coils of steel wire. You are about to enter when a movement in the air around your head arrests you. A shape is taking form in the doorway, a shadowy figure with flaming red eyes. An icy chill grips your heart as it sweeps past you with a swirling rush of wind. You spin round to see it hovering in the sky, its shadowy hand now gripping a great spiked ball and chain. It shrieks an unearthly cry, and the ball whistles down towards your unprotected face.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A shadowy figure with flaming red eyes is hovering in the<br/>sky, its hand gripping a great spiked ball and chain</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="684"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="684"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this skill, you must prepare to defend yourself, for there is no time to evade this sudden attack. Owing to the speed of the attack, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total for the first three rounds of combat (unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery).</p>
- <combat><enemy>Oudakon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you reach his body, a second crossbow bolt hits your head. The missile passes through your skull, and you are dead before your body hits the ground.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel winds its way deeper and deeper into the solid rock until it emerges at a chamber illuminated by a shaft of shimmering red light that pours down from a square hole in the ceiling. A pair of huge iron doors fills the opposite wall and appears to offer the only exit from the room. In order to reach the doors, you will have to pass through the eerie red light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to walk through the light and examine the iron doors, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you prefer to retrace your steps and take the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sand is unexpectedly warm, and as you make your way between the boulders that litter the shore, your boots soon become unbearably hot. Just a few feet ahead, a distinct line of stepping stones rises out of the sand and heads towards a fissure in the sheer rock wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to leap on to the nearest stone slab, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you choose to avoid the stepping stones and press on through the scorching sand, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attack is swift and deadly. You despatch all three of them in as many blows and cover their dead bodies with a tapestry torn from the wall. There is nothing of value in the pockets of their robes, but lying on the table, you find a Skeleton Key and a Parchment. Both Items look as if they could be of use, and you decide to keep them. (Mark them as Special Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, to be kept in the pocket of your tunic.)</p>
- <p>You leave the chamber, but as soon as you set foot into the corridor beyond, you are confronted by an armoured guard. He screams a cry that is muffled by the visor of his helmet and turns to run towards a bell-rope hanging from a hole in the ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the tip of your weapon flicks the lever down, you feel a surge of water engulf your arm. The flow is reversed: the statue is sucking water from the chamber at a tremendous rate. Your weapon is torn from your hand (remember to erase it from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), but you manage to wrench your arm clear and swim to the surface uninjured.</p>
- <p>Within minutes, the water drops to the level of the statue's mouth and remains there. Suddenly, the door emits a click and is forced wide open by the weight of the remaining water pressing upon it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first there is silence. Then a faint squeak grows to a shuddering rumble as the cogs of a hidden counterweight grind into action. The squeal of tortured metal resounds in your ears as the portcullis rises jerkily into the soot-blackened ceiling.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="260" height="136" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="260" height="136" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Wasting no time you duck under the rising bars and hurry into the tunnel beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect34-1-foot" idref="sect34-1">
- <p>This section is the correct answer to the Zakhan's riddle from <a idref="sect100">section 100</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>In reply to your correct answer,<a id="sect34-1" idref="sect34-1-foot" class="footnote"/> the oval door emits a click and slowly swings open. You step through and descend a steep ramp to a long corridor, whose walls are covered with what appear to be gigantic cocoons that stretch into the distance for as far as you can see. The oval door clicks shut but the clicking continues, like an echo, only growing steadily louder. In the gloomy corridor ahead you can see that something is moving. A huge worm-like creature with great black eyes and horny mandibles is slithering towards you, a purple froth bubbling from its mouth as it picks up your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the Magnakai rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have a Silver Whistle, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you have neither of these skills nor the Special Item, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By sheer force of will, you focus your skill through the pain that fills your head and try to command the sphere to stop its psychic attack.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the Magnakai rank of Primate, you may add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An opening to your right reveals a spiral staircase, and you can distinctly hear the sound of approaching footsteps. Judging by the noise, you estimate that at least a dozen iron-shod warriors are descending the stairs to this level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to stand and face the approaching enemy, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to descend the stairs as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a matter of seconds, the exit is sealed off completely. A loud hissing fills your ears, and a strangely bitter smell assails your nostrils. By the time you realize that the air is being flooded with a powerful sleep gas, pumped in through tiny vents near the door, you are already succumbing to its irresistible power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic senses tell you that what you see before you is an illusion. The Oudakon is a spectral force, placed here by a powerful magician and activated by anyone or anything that dares to approach the door of the Great Hall.</p>
- <p>Mustering your courage, you challenge the illusion by commanding it to disperse. The shadow, which, seconds before, looked all too real, dissolves like mist into the chill night air. All that remains is a fading cry of frustrated anger that echoes through the ruins of the keep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that a bridge, hidden by a powerful spell of invisibility, spans the pit. Kneeling at the edge, you sweep your hand back and forth in the hope of locating it, but a noise in the passage behind makes you stop and turn. The sound of heavy footsteps grows louder, but the passage looks deserted. Frantically, you continue your search for the invisible bridge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard tugs the rope and the corridor is filled with the harsh clangour of an alarm bell. More armoured guards appear, their weapons drawn and their visors closed for combat. They take one look at you and hurl themselves along the corridor in a frenzied attack. They strike simultaneously and you must fight all four of them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zahda Beastmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win and combat lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If combat lasts more than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible growling follows you across the bleak shore as you race towards the high rock wall that is the base of Kazan-Oud. At first the sand felt comfortably warm, but now your boots have become unbearably hot.</p>
- <p>A few yards ahead, a line of stepping stones rises out of the scorching black sand. The stones lead away towards a jagged fissure in the rock wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to leap on to the nearest stone slab, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you choose to avoid the stepping stones and press on through the burning sand, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart pounding, you reach for the Lorestone, your fingers trembling in anticipation of the moment when, by merely touching its crystal shell, you will absorb its vast wisdom. You feel giddy with excitement as your hand draws closer. Then suddenly a severe pain burns your fingers, jolting you to your senses: a gout of black fire has sprung from the dark crystal, stabbing you viciously with its spiky flame (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Lightning dances around the crystal, fusing it to the Lorestone with a crackling fire. A cone of light bathes the throne and, in its shadowless glare, Lord Zahda appears, gaunt and wild-eyed; in his hand he holds a rod of inlaid platinum, which he now points directly at your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Blue Pills are made from the dried and crushed roots of the Sabito plant, commonly found in the Boari jungle, but rare in any other part of Magnamund. They enable the human body to extract oxygen from water by absorbing it through the skin, thereby allowing anyone who swallows Sabito root to <quote>breathe</quote> underwater.</p>
- <p>There are enough pills for one full dose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your bleeding hand strikes something close to the edge of the pit that feels like a narrow plank. You thank your good fortune, but before you can scramble across it, a blow catches you in the ribs and leaves you gasping for air (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You have been dealt a vicious kick that leaves you sprawled over the edge of the pit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to get to your feet and try to retaliate, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to pull yourself on to the invisible beam and try to struggle across to the other side, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to risk diving into the pit, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unsheathing your weapon, you dig your heels into the wet sand and face the seething tide of rats. The damp air is now filled with the choking stench of their bodies, and your stomach knots as they scuttle nearer and nearer.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You dig your heels into the wet sand<br/>and face the seething tide of rats</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="679"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="679"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>If you have completed the Magnakai Lore-circle of Light (i.e., you possess the Disciplines of Animal Control and Curing), you may add an additional 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Flood of Giant Rats</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">80</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect336">You can evade after three rounds of combat by climbing over the reef of jagged rocks; <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage opens out into a hexagonal chamber. There are two exits, both leading away beneath horseshoe arches of gleaming crystal. The arch to your left is carved from solid red ruby; the arch to your right, from solid green jadin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you have the Magnakai Disciplines of Invisibility, Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to pass under the red ruby arch, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to pass under the green jadin arch, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are ten feet from the archway when a ghastly scream freezes you in your tracks and forces you to glance over your shoulder at a terrible scene. Three creatures, no taller than men but with shiny skin as black as night, claw at the warrior in a grisly tug-of-war. The snapping of bone and tearing of flesh makes you shudder, and the sight of the dead man's limbs being swallowed whole makes your stomach churn uncontrollably. The ghoulish creatures gurgle their delight, their jaws dislocating to accommodate their feast. As their fiery eyes fix themselves on you, a cold dagger of fear stabs into your mind. Blinded by panic, you turn and flee into the darkness of the archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely covered a hundred yards when a blood-curdling howl echoes along the passage behind. Spinning round, you see the outline of a gigantic black wolf loping towards you at a frightening pace. Its evil eyes flash in the dim light, and its great fanged jaws hang open in eager readiness to bite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to stand and fight this ravenous monster, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you wish to run from the monster as fast as you can, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the glow of your light fills the cave, you notice that the uneven floor is covered with chunks of mouldering rubble, spattered with blotches of dried blood. You are about to investigate a narrow tunnel that winds deeper into the solid black rock when your Kai instincts alert you to a shallow step that crosses from one side of the cave to the other. A closer look reveals the step to be a perfect square of marble that covers the first ten feet of the tunnel floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to prod the marble slab with a weapon to test for a trap, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to jump across the slab into the tunnel beyond, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you decide to enter the tunnel by walking across the slab, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes its mark, burying itself deep in the chest of the leader. He screams like an animal and falls forward, impaling himself on his sword as he crashes to the ground. Dropping your bow, you draw a hand weapon as the other guards press on with their attack, undaunted by the death of their leader.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zahda Beastmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If combat lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After several attempts, you finally manage to ignite a flame. It flares brightly but soon goes out as it quickly consumes what little oxygen remains in the bubble. Clawing at your throat and chest, you drop slowly to your knees as you suffocate in this transparent, airless tomb.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mustering your reserves of psychic strength, you focus your skill at the tumbling trunk. You manage to slow its fall and lock one end into a hollow in the last stair. For a moment it stands upright, wavering from side to side like a gigantic metronome, before falling across the gap with a tremendous crash. When the dust clears, you find yourself staring at a perfect bridge. You waste no time traversing the gap and quickly make your way up the stairs to the breached fortress wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pain quickly becomes unbearable (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). As you reel back in agony, the drumming increases speed: unless you act quickly it will destroy your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to attack the hand, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it at the plinth, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to run between the two green pillars and escape into the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your basic Kai skills tell you that the lock that secures the door is magical, not mechanical, in nature. All attempts to discover its secret are blocked by the spell that shields the lock. Reluctantly, you abandon the door and leave the chamber by the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193"><link-text>Turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the bottom of the stairs is a deserted hallway that leads to two great doors of gleaming bronze. Sumptuous tapestries and statuettes of gold line the walls on either side, and an ornate fountain of silvered marble fills the hall with a melodious bubbling sound.</p>
- <p>You have covered only a few yards when an armoured guard steps into view from behind the fountain. He is armed with a crossbow and is taking aim at your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery or Divination, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If it is 3 or more, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you search the bodies of the slain Beastmen, looking for anything that could shed some light on the mysteries of the fortress. After emptying their packs and pockets, you sift through the following Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Axes (Weapons)</li>
- <li>1 Bow (Weapons)</li>
- <li>2 Spears (Weapons)</li>
- <li>1 Quiver with 4 Arrows (Weapons List)</li>
- <li>Enough food for 4 Meals (Meals)</li>
- <li>Pouch of Herbs (Backpack Items)</li>
- <li>Flask of Wine (Backpack Items)</li>
- </ul>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and wish to identify the herbs, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to examine the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to leave the hall by the tunnel to your left, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you prefer to enter the tunnel from which the beastmen appeared, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that neither the rope nor the rocks are quite what they seem: a terrible aura of wickedness hangs over them both. Your try to delve deeper, but your concentration is broken when your boat lurches violently towards the jetty. A collision is only seconds away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to dive overboard to avoid being dashed against the stone wall, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to grab one of the hanging ropes, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you prefer to close your eyes and pray, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sweep the yawning void but with no success. Suddenly the footsteps halt. You hear a piercing crack like that of a whip, and an angry red weal opens across the back of your hand (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You feel his presence, but you cannot see the enemy who dealt you this wound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to continue to search for a crossing, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to stand and fight your unseen enemy, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage becomes hotter and noisier the deeper you explore it. Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the rank of Primate, you must now deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your total due to the suffocating heat and choking, sulphurous fumes. Another tunnel looms out of the yellowish mist to your right. With watery eyes, you peer down it; a red glow fills a crack in the distance. The ground vibrates to an incessant screeching of metallic objects scraping against stone and steel, and this noise, together with the stinking atmosphere, conspires to numb your senses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to investigate the red glow, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you decide to ignore it and press on along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as your hand touches the mist, a terrific bolt of blue lightning arcs towards it from one corner of the ceiling. Pain shoots up your arm, and you are catapulted into the water by the shock (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you have a Vial of Blue Pills, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not possess this Item, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light flares brightly in the moist gloom of the passage. A cavern lies immediately ahead, its high-arched roof a mass of dripping stalactites, hanging like thick spears of pearly white stone. Cautiously, you step across the cavern floor, your skin prickling, as peculiar sounds emanate from the shadows.</p>
- <p>You wind your way through the labyrinth of tunnels, slipping on moss-covered rocks, grazing your head on low ceilings and scrambling up and down steep ridges and rockfalls until you arrive at a smooth-walled chamber carved with precision from the hard black rock. A staircase ascends through an archway to your left, and directly ahead stands a massive stone door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to examine the stone door, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard fires as you run at him, the sneer on his face boasting his confidence that you will soon be a dead man. You twist aside to avoid the lethal bolt, escaping with nothing more serious than a torn sleeve, and shattering his confidence. You attack and he attempts to parry your first blow with his empty crossbow; you knock it from his trembling fingers, leaving him without a weapon to hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Throne-hall Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch in total silence, every nerve and muscle tensed in readiness for combat. A new sound reaches your ears. It does not come from the chamber but from the tunnel in which you are hiding; it is the sound of a cracking shell.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You turn to see a mass of slimy, twisting<br/>serpents hatching from the eggs</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="672"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="672"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You turn to see a mass of slimy, twisting serpents, each as long and as thick as your arm, hatching from one of the eggs. Instinctively, they slither towards you, attracted by your body heat and driven on by an insatiable desire for food.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you have neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have walked less than ten feet along the corridor when you are knocked off your feet by a terrible numbing blow to your chest. The ghostly outline of a skeletal warrior shimmers in the air above you, a bloodied spear gripped in its fleshless hands. The wound is fatally deep, and the image soon fades into darkness as your life's blood ebbs away.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have a strong feeling that the entrance is guarded by a trap. The sickening odour reminds you of your first hunting trip as a Kai initiate to the foothills of the Durncrag mountains of Sommerlund. By chance you discovered an old bear pit that housed a colony of marsh vipers. The awful smell that arose from that pit is identical to the stench seeping from the cave mouth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you wish to enter the cave, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to return to the beach below, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You study the plate that blocks the locking mechanism. If you could just turn it aside, you might be able to release the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you have a sword, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not have a sword, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow sings through the smoky air and pierces the dog-like skull of the leading creature. It halts, as if frozen to the spot, and a sizzling sound emanates from its open jaws. Then, with a flash, it bursts into flames. The fire consumes the creature completely in a matter of seconds and its body disintegrates, dropping to the floor in glowing, sticky lumps like molten lava. The other creatures appear undaunted by this and quicken their unnatural gait. With a rasping click, curved talons shoot from their webbed fingers in preparation for attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to fire another arrow, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you decide to shoulder your bow and escape into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sword itself appears plain and unremarkable, but the block on which it rests gives off a strong aura of magic. Your Kai mastery makes you wary of stepping any closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have a Rope and wish to try to lasso the sword, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide to ignore the sword and leave the vault by the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you prefer to leave by the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The purple-robed creatures rise, shrieking, from their table, their long fingers pointing accusingly at you. In an instant, the corridor beyond is filled with the harsh clang of an alarm bell. Black-clad armoured guards, like those you encountered earlier, appear at the archway, their weapons drawn and their visors closed for combat. They take one look at you and hurl themselves forward in a frenzied attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you decide to defend yourself with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zagothal is totally blind and completely deaf. By using your Kai mastery to mask the scent and heat of your body, you manage to avoid the creature's attack and make your escape towards the distant rock wall. Here, you discover a fissure running vertically through the jet-black stone and are about to enter when the rustle and slither of unseen things echoing in the darkness makes you hesitate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to enter the fissure, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you prefer to continue your escape along the beach, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Half-blinded by the fumes, you fail to see a trip wire strung knee-high across the corridor, but, as soon as you feel it touch your leg, your lightning-fast survival instincts alert you to a trap. There is a rumble in the ceiling, and two walls of stone begin to fall simultaneously, threatening to seal off the tunnel on either side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to try to dive through the shrinking gap ahead, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you decide to dive under the descending wall behind you, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you chose to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature's flaming fists scorch your tunic, but your Kai mastery enables you to survive the worst of the searing heat. The attack is wild and haphazard and you have no difficulty avoiding the blows. Ducking beneath the creature's arm, you sprint away towards the jets of flame in the hope of evading the attack, but the sight of the inferno ahead makes you hesitate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to enter the flame-jets, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you choose to stand and fight the Flame-man, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking hold of a crate, you pull open the lid as easily as if you were tearing the peel from an overripe orange. The damp timber crumbles in your hands, falling on the tarnished pewter plates lying within. Your boot staves in the side of another crate, and you hear the dull crunch of shattered porcelain. This one is full of old Kakush vases, part of a cargo from a trading barge that sank on the reef over a decade ago.</p>
- <p>You are about to leave when something unusual catches your eye: the tip of a cylindrical map case is jutting out from behind an empty cask. Unlike everything else in this foul room, it is both dry and quite new. Flipping the brass catch, you tip the contents into your palm: a small piece of parchment and a Diamond (you may keep this Special Item in your pocket). A snake with one large eye is drawn in red ink on the parchment. It is coiled around the number <strong>123</strong>. Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;it may be of use to you later in your adventure.</p>
- <p>Satisfied that there is nothing else of use or interest in the room, you leave and press on towards the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tapestries are similar to others you have seen in the lower levels of Kazan-Oud; they are extremely beautiful and exceedingly valuable. However, it is what you discover behind them that is of greater interest, for they conceal a secret door. Your basic Kai senses alert you to a tiny button set into the wall. You press it and the door slides open to reveal a circular tunnel of gleaming steel. Quickly you enter and the door slides shut, moments before the hall is filled with Zahda's guards.</p>
- <p>Fifty feet along the gleaming steel tube, you arrive at a circular door in the wall to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to open the door and enter, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to continue along the tube, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow grazes his shoulder but does not stop him from reaching the rope. In an instant, the harsh clangour of an alarm bell fills the corridor. More armoured guards appear, their weapons drawn and their visors closed for combat. They take one look at their wounded comrade and hurl themselves along the corridor in a frenzied attack. They strike as one and you are forced to engage them as a single enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zahda Beastmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If combat lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect76-1-foot" idref="sect76-1">
- <p>According to later books (cf. <cite><a href="&link.10tdot;">The Dungeons of Torgar</a></cite> Section 304), you would also be unable to use any two-handed weapon (i.e. Broadsword, Spear, Quarterstaff) in this combat.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Lekhor twists and writhes in frustrated fury, for it cannot shake you free from its trunk. The head rears up and a droplet of venom splashes the back of your hand. It burns like a red-hot dagger and you cannot stifle a cry of pain. The serpent snickers, its red forked tongue lashing the air just a few inches in front of your face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lekhor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to your precarious position, you cannot make use of a shield during the combat,<a id="sect76-1" idref="sect76-1-foot" class="footnote"/> and, due to the corrosive venom of the Lekhor, you must <em>treble</em> any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A searing pain explodes behind your eyes as the hand clamps itself to your head. As the decaying fingers pierce your scalp, forcing their way through your skull, your vision turns red and your body shakes uncontrollably. The hideous claw burrows deeper, feeding on the only source of nourishment than can sustain its existence: living human brain.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great wolf slams into your chest, ramming you to the ground with the weight of its massive body. Fangs rake your arm and burning saliva splashes your face. Desperately you stab and slice at its throat, fighting with all the strength and skill you can muster to free yourself from this merciless beast. The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The Hound of Death slams into your chest, ramming you<br/>to the ground with the weight of its massive body</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="613"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="613"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <combat><enemy>Hound of Death</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Horror twists the warrior's face as your arrow whistles through the air. He opens his mouth to scream, but the cry dies in his throat as your shaft buries itself deep in his chest. He staggers, his arms outstretched as if to grab at a rail, and tumbles from the walkway into the smoky chasm.</p>
- <p>A hungry shriek resounds from the arch. You draw another arrow and take aim at the darkness as a murmur of low mutterings becomes audible. The sounds chill you. Gurgling and hissing through clenched teeth, three creatures, their skins as black as night, creep from the shadows and fix you with terrible fiery eyes. They cackle repulsively and slink forward with long loping strides.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to try to kill all three with your bow, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you decide to shoulder your bow and evade them by escaping into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the alarm bell and the sound of running feet, you make a quick search of the bodies before descending the stairs. Your search uncovers the following Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>1 Spear</li>
- <li>2 Short Swords</li>
- <li>1 Axe</li>
- <li>2 Daggers</li>
- <li>1 Mace</li>
- <li>6 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these Items, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed of your attack catches your enemy completely off-guard. He attempts to parry your first blow with his empty crossbow, but you knock it from his trembling fingers, leaving him without a weapon to hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Throne-hall Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you mount the slippery stone steps, a roll of distant thunder rumbles across the lake, and a few drops of rain spatter the hood of your Kai cloak. A great storm is brewing. By the time you have climbed all the way to the cave mouth, a fierce wind lashes the rock wall, and the ground vibrates with every clap of thunder that follows flashes of awful green lightning. Foul air greets your arrival. You are anxious to be out of the storm, but the sweet stench of decay that assails your nostrils makes you hesitate at the entrance of the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to enter the cave, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide not to enter, you have no other option but to descend the stairs to the beach below; <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sarcophagus is covered with intricate carvings depicting a procession of strange creatures: some are part human, part animal; others are wholly alien to anything you have ever encountered before. One carving in particular holds your attention: that of a snake coiled around a row of three stone buttons. It reminds you of a lock designed by the locksmiths of Holmgard, the capital city of your homeland.</p>
- <p>Your keen eyes are drawn to a faint crack that runs vertically through the stone. You follow the line of the crack and discover that it marks the outline of a concealed door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to try to open the concealed door, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you prefer to leave the hall by the tunnel to your right, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to leave the hall via the tunnel to your left, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You meet with no resistance: your hand pushes through the bubble's skin as if you were dipping it in water. However, when you try to withdraw it, the transparent membrane closes around your wrist in a vice-like grip. As the wolf's jaws snap shut around your legs, the bubble envelopes the upper half of your body.</p>
- <p>In the space of one grisly minute, you are simultaneously suffocated and torn to shreds.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The climb proves to be one of the most difficult you have ever attempted. There are precious few places for you to put your feet, and for much of the climb, your arms have to support all your weight. Progress is slow and painful, and your efforts are further hampered by gusts of wind and rain.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 2. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Primate you may deduct 2 from this total figure. Your final figure equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost due to wounds and fatigue before you reach the opposite side.</p>
- <p>Aching and exhausted, you climb to the top of the stairs and approach the breached fortress wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself between two of the silky cocoons hanging from the wall and use your Magnakai skill to mask the heat and scent of your body. The hideous worm-like creature halts, its clicking mandibles snapping the air in frustration. You turn your head away and look straight into one of the cocoons. A chill runs down your spine, for the decaying remains of a female warrior's face stare back at you from inside the web-like strands of the cocoon.</p>
- <p>The sudden shock makes you draw breath sharply. Immediately, the worm-like thing slithers forward, propelled by its short, rubbery legs. You can only pray that it has not detected your hiding place.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Stick with me,</quote> shouts the warrior over his shoulder as you race along the walkway, the creatures hot on your heels. Events are happening too quickly for you to rationalize your actions; instinct is now your only guide. At the arch he suddenly stops, throwing his arms out wide to hold you back. You run headlong into him with a jolt that leaves you breathless, but his strong hands grab your Backpack and keep you on your feet.</p>
- <p><quote>Snake-trap!</quote> he shouts, pointing to a stone slab set into the floor. <quote>Curse this infernal place; is nowhere safe from Zahda's devilry?</quote> A shriek of malicious glee makes you turn your head; the creatures are closer than you feared. <quote>Jump!</quote> cries the warrior. <quote>For pity's sake, jump!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to jump across the slab, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you decide to stand and fight the onrushing enemy, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Jets of fire spurt from the floor and walls momentarily blinding you. A wave of searing heat buffets your face, singeing your hair and eyelashes (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), and forcing you to retreat for fear of being burned alive.</p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a ghastly scream. Something is approaching you through the flames. In the next instant, a blazing human form staggers into view; it shrieks in agony and lurches out of the fire-jets, its arms flailing wildly as it launches an attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to run past the fiery attacker and into the blazing inferno, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you wish to evade both by running back along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the bridge is strong enough to support your weight, so long as it is not subjected to any sudden or violent shock. Such a shock could easily open up one of the many cracks that riddle its core.</p>
- <p>Forewarned by your Kai mastery, you step on to the bridge and advance carefully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243"><link-text>Turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you walk the temperature steadily rises until you are bathed in sweat. The steel plates of the tunnel become too hot to touch, and wisps of smoke rise from the soles of your boots, where the leather is close to igniting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus or a Platinum Amulet, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you have neither the skill nor the Special Item, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your dismay, you discover that the tunnel is no more than a shallow cave that shelters a clutch of eggs, each one as large as a barrel of ale. They lie upon a bed of packs and torn clothing, all that remains of previous adventurers who fell foul of the giant snake. An angry snickering and a stabbing forked tongue force you to the back of the tunnel, warning you that a similar fate may lie in store for you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to examine the eggs more closely, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to search for a way to escape from the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You advance along the passage, confident of your ability to deal with the sudden appearance of any guard who should be unfortunate enough to cross your path. Dark openings loom on either side, and you scrutinize the floor ahead for any signs of a trap or pit.</p>
- <p>The passage becomes dank and dark. Whip cracks, screams and sounds of weeping echo in the distance: the pitiful sounds of torture.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to retrace your steps and take the other passage, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cleaving a path through the thick cobwebs proves more difficult that you anticipated. Sticky, rope-like strands soon cover you from head to foot and, to your horror, they begin to shrink. It is too late to evade this attack&emdash;you must fight for your life. The enemy is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Owing to your restricted ability to move, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Trap-webs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glance back over your shoulder just as the wolf reaches the corner. The sight of its gleaming fangs makes your skin crawl with fear, but, to your surprise, it does not continue the chase. It stops and rests on its haunches, its horrible face lined with fear and frustration as it watches you disappear into the gloom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior is halfway across the walkway when a hungry shriek resounds from the arch. He spins on his heel and crouches in readiness for combat. A murmur of low mutterings follows; the sound chills you. Then, gurgling and hissing through clenched teeth, three creatures, their shiny skins as black as night, creep from the shadows and fix you both with fiery stares. The warrior beings to shake, his sword wavering in his gloved hand. As the creatures stalk forward, his nerve breaks and he turns and flees towards you.</p>
- <p><quote>Save yourself, stranger. They'll eat you alive!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you wish to run with the warrior and evade the creatures by escaping into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you wish to attack the warrior as soon as he is close, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you decide to let him pass and face the creatures alone, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the blade leaves the block there is a tremendous howl, like that of a mountain wolf baying at a full moon. Your heart leaps into your mouth, and you back away hurriedly, half-expecting it to change into a ravening monster at any second. It takes several minutes for your fears to subside.</p>
- <p>Cursing your predicament, you sheathe your new-found weapon and ponder which exit to take from the vault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to take the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature seems immune to your attack. Swiftly the tendril writhes past you, coiling itself twice before tightening around your neck. With a merciless jolt, it wrenches you away from the fissure and drags you towards its ghastly mouth.</p>
- <p>Terror and pain give way to blind desperation as its fetid breath washes over your trembling face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you have any Fireseeds, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you have neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you walk around the throne, your weapon held out in readiness to strike. As you draw level, your heart leaps into your mouth&emdash;you are staring into the cold, unblinking eyes of Lord Zahda. He sneers evilly and points a rod of inlaid platinum at your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the air in the north tunnel is far hotter than that of the west. Judging by the smell of sulphur that pervades the cavern you guess that some form of volcanic activity is taking place to the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to investigate this activity, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide that the west tunnel would be safer, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect100-1-foot" idref="sect100-1">
- <p>To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="toc">Table of Contents</a> and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer to the Zakhan's riddle, a footnote in that section will tell you so.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a chamber where a tall bronze statue stands. You recognize its distinctive head-dress and robes immediately: it is a Zakhan, a ruler of the desert empire of Vassagonia. The statue looks most distressed: its arms are outstretched in a gesture of hopelessness, and the expression on its face is one of sorrow and despair. Beyond the statue, an oval-shaped door is set flush in the wall but you discover that it is locked.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You enter a chamber where a tall bronze statue stands:<br/>it is a Zakhan, a ruler of Vassagonia</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="677"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="677"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>The mist grows brighter. Once more the skull appears and speaks, its voice as comforting as a raven's croak:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>Listen to the Zakhan,
- <br />Ponder what you hear;
- <br />Give the correct answer,
- <br />For fear he sheds a tear.</quote>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The skull disappears into the misty ceiling, and you watch amazed as the dull bronze lips of the statue begin to move. A harsh voice echoes from deep within its hollow metal body:</p>
- <p><quote>My daughter has many sisters, as many sisters as she has brothers, but each of her brothers has twice as many sisters as brothers. So answer me this, wise warrior, how many sons and daughters do I have?</quote></p>
- <p>Consider your answer carefully and, when you have decided, write down first the number of sons the Zakhan has and then, immediately next to it, the number of daughters. Now turn to the entry which bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect100-1" idref="sect100-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you cannot answer the Zakhan's riddle, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without any warning, a solid iron door slams down behind your back, sealing off the entrance to the chamber. The distant sound of rattling chains and sliding bolts makes your pulse quicken, and instinctively you reach for your weapon to defend yourself against a sudden attack. Several uneventful minutes pass before you relax your guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you decide to find out where the tunnel leads, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to try to force open the iron door, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The panel slides shut of its own accord, and the buttons click back to their original positions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to leave the hall by the tunnel to your left, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to leave by the tunnel to your right, the same tunnel by which the black-clad warriors entered the hall, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run straight into an invisible barrier, a field of destructive energy that flows between the two green pillars. With a thunderous concussion, you are repelled from the shield and sent tumbling back into the chamber (lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; lose only 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus).</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, by the time you reach the fissure you have lost 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the effect of the scorching sand. Standing at the jagged opening, you hear the rustle and slither of unseen things echoing within the depths of the darkness. Suddenly something round and black breaks through the surface of the lake. A hideous gurgling cry splits the night as the thing hurtles across the beach towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to take cover inside the fissure, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to draw a weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race over to your companion's side and discover that he is still conscious, although he has lost a lot of blood. Using your healing skill, you repair the wound as best you can, but it is deep and severe and you can only prolong his life for a few minutes at most. You tell him of your quest and the help the Elder Magi have given to enable you to enter Kazan-Oud. As you recount your air voyage to Herdos aboard Lord Paido's skyship, you notice his eyes flicker in recognition of the name.</p>
- <p><quote>My name is Kasin,</quote> he says, painfully. <quote>Lord Paido is my brother.</quote> You notice the resemblance in his cat-like eyes and square jaw. <quote>I'm finished, Kai Lord,</quote> he says, his face bathed in sweat, <quote>but I can and will help you in your quest. Listen carefully. Over there, behind the tapestry, is a secret passage. It leads to Zahda's throne. Above the throne is the Lorestone of Herdos, but beware, Zahda has coupled its power to a Doomstone from the realm of Naaros. He draws his power from that accursed gem. If you are to succeed, you must first destroy the Doomstone or you will surely perish. Sadly, I cannot help you escape from Kazan-Oud, for I myself was captured long before I reached the surface, but if you can get to the beach, make your way to the old stone jetty. I hid my boat beneath the steps there.</quote> His grip tightens around your hand as a wave of pain washes over his body. <quote>When you return to Elzian,</quote> he gasps, <quote>tell my brother that my death was not in vain&ellips; May the gods protect you&ellips; Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>As his eyes close for the last time, you promise that his bravery will live forever in the hearts of the Vakeros&emdash;his brave warrior kin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are less than twenty yards from the west tunnel when an agonizing pain tears through your back and explodes from your chest in a gout of blood and flame. You stagger and fall, your body virtually torn in two by a powerful bolt of destructive energy, and you die within seconds of hitting the hard stone floor.</p>
- <choice>Slain by a Dhax power-staff, your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hand passes through the surface of the first bubble meeting little resistance; it is as if you are dipping your hand into a pool of water. But when you try to remove it, the rubbery skin closes in a vice-like grip. You fight to free your hand, but you only cause the bubble to work its way further up your arm. Soon it envelopes your whole body, locking you within its air-tight skin.</p>
- <p>Your eyes bulge and your lungs burn viciously as you fight for air in this transparent prison (lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you have a sword and want to try to cut your way out of the bubble, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you have a Torch and Tinderbox, or a Lantern, and want to try to burn your way free, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you have none of the above Items, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swift undercurrent of the stream is so powerful that you are swept along the gully and far out into the lake. The weight of your equipment, your fatigue, and the highly polluted stream water all conspire to sap your strength. You cannot keep your head above the water and lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to lack of oxygen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight back your rising nausea as the worm slithers past, its slimy body wiping itself against your back. As soon as it has passed, you leave your hiding place and hurry along the corridor, anxious to put as much distance as possible between the horrible worm and yourself in case it should turn and pursue you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46"><link-text>Turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Four warriors, dark and grim, march into the hall in single file. At once their black armour and skull-like helmets make you think they are Drakkarim&emdash;evil human warriors who serve the Darklords of Helgedad. But when they draw to a halt before the sarcophagus, you see that they cannot possibly be human. Their great sloping shoulders support unnaturally long arms, and the hands that grip their weapons are covered with bristling ginger hair. Yellowed talons curve from their fingers, and behind them hang long black tails, tufted at the end like the tails of lions.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Four warriors, dark and grim, march into<br/>the hall&emdash;they cannot possibly be human</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="682"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="682"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Their leader grunts a command and approaches the grey granite tomb. He raises his hairy fist and presses three buttons set into the stone. A secret panel slides open, and all four step into it and disappear from view. It closes behind them without a sound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to examine the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to leave the hall by the tunnel from which the warriors appeared, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you decide to leave the hall by the tunnel to your left, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing in a passage, the walls and floor of which are completely sheer and smooth. Overhead swirls a mist that gives off a dim, diffused light, just sufficient for you to be able to see your way ahead. Without your weapons you feel naked and vulnerable, but you take some comfort in the fact that you still have your Backpack, your Gold Crowns and your Special Items.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you walk along the passage, expecting the unexpected, until you arrive at a circular vault. There, upon a block of marble in the centre of the floor, lies a steel sword. As you step into the vault, slabs of stone sink into the floor to reveal two exits: one to your left, the other to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to pick up the sword, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to enter the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to enter the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow pierces the centre of the sphere and disappears completely. Fearing that your missile has proved harmless, you shoulder your bow and are about to draw a hand weapon when suddenly there is a flash of light and a tremendous explosion. The black sphere bursts into thousands of pieces and is consumed in a fireball of brilliant yellow flame. A wave of heat sears your face (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) and you are hurled backwards into the fissure by the blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creaking door stirs the man from sleep, and he rolls over and cowers in the corner of his foul-smelling cage. His eyes are cloudy, like frosted glass, and his face and hands are pitted with disease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your efforts have jammed up the door, creating enough space for you to squeeze underneath. You crawl into the chamber beyond and, aching with fatigue, stagger to your feet. You pause to catch your breath before entering the northern tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If the lock operates in the same way as those made by the Locksmiths' Guild of Holmgard, you need only press each button once to open the door. But in which order should you press them?</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to press the first, then second, then third button, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to press the second, then third, then first button, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to press the second, then first, then third button, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to press the third, then first, then second button, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to press the third, then second, then first button, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to press the first, then third, then second button, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your horrified amazement, the hand springs into the air and hovers above your head. Writhing fingers stretch open as the hand plummets towards your skull.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rats are unafraid of the water. They hurl themselves at you, clawing and biting at your back as you push the coracle out into the icy cold lake. Tumbling into the little boat, you swiftly despatch the most determined of the rodents before paddling away from the bay. You have covered barely a hundred yards when the coracle lists heavily to one side. The rats have chewed through the wood below the waterline and you are sinking fast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess this skill, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of energy surges through your body as you close your hand around the Lorestone of Herdos (restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to its original total). Your senses tingle and a new-found strength wipes away the fatigue of your terrible ordeal, enabling you to assess the situation anew. You step into the blue beam and immediately you are drawn upwards, following closely on the heels of Zahda, who is struggling to stay in the centre of the column of light. He is gripped with mortal fear of you, and as he sees you gaining on him, he unsheathes a glowing dagger and inverts himself to face you as you approach. When you are at arm's length he launches a wild attack. Lord Zahda is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lord Zahda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your basic Kai skill of tracking enables you to stay on Tavig's trail. As you retrace the route you took earlier, your mind is filled with urgent questions. Who or what is the Trakka? Where do the Dhax come from? Who is Zahda that Tavig spoke of so fearfully?</p>
- <p>Suddenly your thoughts are shattered by a scream that resounds from the top of a staircase directly ahead. Tavig appears, clutching his face, blood trickling through his fingers. He is about to fall when the scaly green fingers of a gigantic hand reach out of the darkness and snatch him back. He vanishes from sight, but his screams grow louder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you wish to charge up the stairs to try to save him, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to escape in the opposite direction, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wolf leaps at your chest, its claws ripping your tunic as it slams you to the ground with its monstrous weight (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Fangs flash before your eyes and fetid saliva splashes your face as you fight desperately to save yourself from the jaws of death.</p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a ghastly scream. The wolf pulls away, its eyes fixed fearfully on the roaring jets of flame. At that moment a human form staggers into view, shrieking in agony and lurching from side to side; the wolf howls and lopes away as the flaming apparition stumbles forward, its arms flailing as it launches a wild attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to run past the fiery attacker and into the roaring jets of flame, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tentacle lifts you into the air, tightening its grip with each passing second until almost all the breath is squeezed from your lungs. Suddenly you are hurled towards another massive boulder, which opens to reveal a monstrous jaw dripping with loathsome saliva. You are swallowed whole.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are forced to cut a path through the horde of creatures that huddle on the steps leading to the jetty. Creatures are crawling out of the ground itself; everywhere you look black slimy hands are bursting through the surface, squeezing their way free from Kazan-Oud through the scores of fissures opening up in the sheer rock wall.</p>
- <p>Near to the base of the steps, you are dragged to the ground by a clutch of loathsome slaves. They pay dearly for their mistake but not before your Backpack is torn from your shoulders (erase your Backpack and all that it contained from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>When you reach the jetty you are covered from head to toe in the blood of your foes. The sight is so frightening that all resistance melts away, and creatures hurl themselves into the lake rather than face the fearsome straight-backed, white-skinned killer of their kin. Beneath the jetty steps you discover an arch, sealed off at one end and with a weed-encrusted stone door at the other. Inside is a small wicker coracle and a paddle.</p>
- <p>Having fought off the most determined of Kazan-Oud's horrors, you launch the coracle, jump aboard and paddle frantically towards the distant glimmer of the power-shield. The deafening death-cry of Kazan-Oud echoes in your ears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you press the third button you hear a distinct click. The panel slides open and you find yourself staring down a flight of steps that lead to a strong, iron-shod door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to enter the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you choose not to enter, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By focusing your Kai skill on the sword, you can cause it to rise from the marble block and move through the air towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to use your mastery of Nexus in this way, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide to leave the sword undisturbed and leave the vault by the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you decide to leave by the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>His heart beats a dozen times then stops. You close his sightless eyes and lay his sword upon his chest, in the custom of the land of Slovia when a warrior falls in battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to leave the body and continue, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to search the body before you go, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a cry that shakes your soul, the creature leaps forward to claw at your throat. The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose during the combat, due to the severity of the burns you sustain.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Flame-man</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clear the slab with one bound and press on along the winding tunnel. A warm, damp wind whistles along the rough-walled passage, carrying with it a rancid smell of sulphur and decay. For over an hour you walk down the tunnel, leaping over fissures in the uneven floor and taking care not to tread on glistening blue-black worms that slither away into cracks in the rock when your light invades their damp, dark world.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="266" height="169" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="266" height="169" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Eventually the tunnel opens out into an oval-shaped chamber. A staircase, festooned with cobwebs, ascends to an open trap door in the ceiling. The familiar pale green glow of the power-shield filters in through this portal. At the foot of the stairs lies the mouldering remains of a body partially encased in armour. A rusty sword is clenched in its skeletal fist, and a bone-handled dagger protrudes from the base of its skull.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you wish to climb the stairs to the open trap door, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to examine the remains of the body more closely, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to leave the chamber and continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the flames die down and the smoke clears, you see the blackened hand lying at the base of the plinth. To your horror and amazement it begins to move, flexing its charred fingers jerkily. Open-mouthed, you stare in disbelief as it suddenly springs into the air and hovers above your head. Its writhing fingers stretch open as it plummets towards your skull.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If your total is now 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If it is 2&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the herbs to be crushed Adgana leaves, a plant that grows in abundance in the Bavari Hills of northern Dessi. One dose is enough to increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 6 points for the duration of a fight.</p>
- <p>However, Adgana is shunned by most professional warriors and its use is outlawed in the Lastlands because it is highly addictive. If you decide to take this potion prior to combat, there is a small chance that you could become addicted. As soon as the combat is resolved, you must pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you pick is 0 or 1, you have become addicted and your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score must be reduced by 4 points. This reduction is a permanent loss to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <p>Should the opportunity to use a further dose of Adgana ever arise, its effect on that occasion will be only half that of the original dose (i.e. it will increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points instead of 6).</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you now wish to examine the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to enter the tunnel from which the Beastmen appeared, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to leave the hall by the other tunnel, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare into the inky black eyes and command the creature to cease its attack. Instantly the slimy, worm-like thing rears up, its short, rubbery legs scrabbling the air in agony, as your command burns into its sensitive and vulnerable brain. As it twists back on itself, its head disappears into the mist. There is an ear-splitting crack as blue lightning engulfs the creature, crackling snake-like around its neck, and filling your nostrils with the stench of burning meat. The creature thrashes wildly for several minutes, and when its gruesome dance is finally done, the canopy of mist is no longer there. In the darkness above, you see a walkway with an observation platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to climb the body of the dead worm-thing and pull yourself on to the platform, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you prefer to climb over the worm and continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cutting yourself free from the last of the deadly strands, you race headlong up the stairs and out through the open portal. You discover that during the struggle you lost a weapon and one Item from your Backpack (erase a weapon of your choice and the second item on your list of Backpack Items).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="249" height="147" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="249" height="147" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You find yourself standing in the ruins of a small storehouse. Through the shattered pane of glass of the solitary arched window, you can see the eerie outline of broken battlements and a fire-blackened tower. You are staring at the remains of Kazan-Oud.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The buttons remain depressed but nothing seems to happen. You are about to abandon your attempt at entry when there is a distinct click. The panel slides open to reveal a set of steps that descends to a large wooden door, reinforced with studs and strips of iron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you choose to enter the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you decide not to enter, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you use your mastery of healing to save his life, applying your power to the open wounds that disfigure his face and throat. The bleeding stops and his heartbeat grows stronger, but you sense that it is only a temporary reprieve. His back is broken and, here, in this hostile fortress, there is no hope for his survival and recovery with so serious an injury. Briefly he regains consciousness and forces himself to speak. <quote>Beware the maze, Northlander&ellips; green&ellips; is death.</quote></p>
- <p>It is all he says before slipping away into endless sleep. You close his sightless eyes and lay his sword upon his chest, as is the custom in the land of Slovia when a valiant warrior falls in battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you now decide to leave the body and continue, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to search the body before you go, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feed off the power directed against you, charging your Psi-surge with the energy waves that buffet your psychic shield. With an immense effort of will, you launch pulses of energy at the hand. The vibrations gather power from the hand itself, setting up an explosive reaction that cannot be reversed. Suddenly there is a searing white flash as the hand disintegrates into thousands of tiny fragments. Your head swims with the fatigue of psychic combat (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but you feel elated by your bloodless victory.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334"><link-text>Turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A streak of green, forked lightning lights up the collapsed roof of Kazan-Oud, and for a second, it looks like the shattered ribs of a giant lizard. There is another flash of lightning, and a hundred tower windows glare at you like empty eyes edged with slivers of broken glass. A line of carved stone gargoyles adorns the black stone walls, overhanging the jetty. Rings of rusted iron are clamped in their snarling jaws, each wound round with slime-encrusted ropes that dangle in the water. At the jetty, it is deep enough to allow a large vessel to dock, but the current and the swell of the tide make it increasingly difficult for you to control your tiny boat.</p>
- <p>Your stomach tightens as the swell threatens to dash you against the jetty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to stop paddling and try to grab one of the ropes, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you decide to abandon the boat and swim towards a line of rocks further west, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you strike the hand, the psychic attack ceases. Although your blow causes no visible wound, the hand suddenly falls limp and drops to the ground near to the base of the plinth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to attack it again, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you decide to leave it and pass through the two green pillars and into the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect137-1-foot" idref="sect137-1">
- <p>If you have any arrows in your Quiver, they have fallen out in your fall, and you must erase them from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (cf. <a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With all your will, you command the snake to come no closer. Its great eye burns you with an icy stare, the black slit pupil shrinking and dilating with every beat of its evil heart. It sways above you, hesitating to attack, as your Kai mastery plants seeds of doubt in its mind, blocking its primeval desire to savage and consume your warm-blooded being. As the monstrous head sways from side to side, you catch a glimpse of a small tunnel in the opposite wall, previously hidden by the snake and its nest. The sight of this possible means of escape momentarily breaks your concentration: the snake lunges forward to attack. Only the speed of your reactions saves you from its venomous fangs. Reluctantly, it retreats at your command and settles in the centre of the chamber, its head resting on its coils as it settles down to sleep.<a id="sect137-1" idref="sect137-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you wish to attack the snake, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you decide to skirt around it and enter the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and strike a mighty blow at the black crystal. It splits clean in two, releasing its dark power and showering you with hot sparks in the wake of its destruction. The riven fragments hurtle into the fiery abyss that surrounds Zahda's throne, quashing the roaring flames.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse you, Kai Lord</quote> screams Lord Zahda, leaping out from behind the golden throne, brandishing a platinum rod. Defiantly, he points the rod at your head and spits an evocation, but the power he calls upon no longer heeds his cry. From the depths of the pit, a terrible roar begins to grow. The floor shakes and a column of flame lights the entire throne-hall as molten lava spews high into the air. Zahda staggers back, his face aghast with terror. Hurriedly he kneels before his throne, his crooked fingers stroking at a pentagram engraved in the gold. Above the din of destruction, another sound, like the ringing of a thousand tiny bells, can be heard, and in the blackness above the throne a speckled glow appears. It descends towards Lord Zahda until he is totally engulfed by a column of shimmering blue light. His body rises, lifted by unseen hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to grab the Lorestone and step into the column of shimmering blue light, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you wish to grab the Lorestone and escape back into the steel tube, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Covering the floor of the north tunnel are myriad tiny animal tracks. Rats, mice, worms and snakes, denizens common to every subterranean lair, have all left their mark upon the grime-encrusted flagstones. But the east tunnel bears no such markings. There the ground is smooth and undisturbed: not even a film of dust discolours the grey stone floor. Your senses warn you that this tunnel is more than it seems.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you now wish to enter the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you decide to take the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses heightened by the threat of a gruesome death, you are quick to notice a beam of light crossing the passage ahead at knee height.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to jump over the beam, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you choose to run through the beam, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping away the sweat of battle on your grimy sleeve, you turn to go, but as you do so, you stumble over something lying on the blood-spattered path. At first glance it looks like a mace, but closer inspection reveals a slim, silver rod with an orange ball of glass held in a claw at one end. It is far too delicate to be used as a weapon in the normal way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to pick up the Silver Sceptre, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to leave it where it is and continue, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect142-1-foot" idref="sect142-1">
- <p>You must win the fight before turning to either section.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the cell block corridor a staircase descends to a lower level. It is guarded by a grim-faced creature armed with an axe.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The Beastman Gaoler, a grim-faced creature<br/>armed with an axe, guards the staircase</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="681"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="681"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Beastman Gaoler</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you win the fight in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If the fight lasts more than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.<a id="sect142-1" idref="sect142-1-foot" class="footnote"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly the tendril writhes past you, coiling twice before tightening around your neck. With an electrifying jolt, it wrenches you away from the fissure and drags you slowly towards its ghastly mouth.</p>
- <p>Terror and pain give way to blind desperation as its fetid breath washes over your trembling face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you have any Fireseeds, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you have neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You inch your way along the tunnel until you reach a dead end. The red glow you saw earlier is pouring through a narrow portal, shaped like a large arrow slit. You look through it at an awesome sight. A cavernous crater, formed of black iron, drops in tiers to a blood-red floor far below. Hundreds of moving forms crowd every level, dragging wagons and pulling monstrous machines up long ramps and across connecting causeways. Other forms, dressed in black, beat and curse them; the heat and fumes that are wafting through the portal prevent you from seeing them more clearly.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a solid sheet of iron descends from the ceiling and seals off the portal. You step back and turn to leave, but in the smoky distance you see another wall of iron closing off the exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breaking open the two halves of your Firesphere, you hold the magical flame close to the transparent skin. It quickly melts a hole, and a great gust of air surges into the bubble, splitting the skin wide open from top to bottom. Holding the Firesphere before you, you melt a path through the other bubbles. As the flame punctures their jelly-like skins they implode and plop to the floor in tatters.</p>
- <p>You move on, your eyes peeled for the slightest hint of danger. A shadow on the floor in the distance makes you wary, and your fear soon turns to dismay when you see that it is a deep, dark pit, which covers the corridor with thirty feet of blackness. A sudden glow in the mist overhead heralds the unwelcome return of the skull:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="225" height="210" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="225" height="210" />
- </illustration>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>The path across defies your sight,
- <br />Find the path or stay and fight!</quote>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen or Divination, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first thing that you notice is the warrior's lack of wounds: no sword cuts or arrow shafts pierce his armour. If it were not for the unmistakable smell of death, you could be forgiven for thinking that he was asleep. You turn the body over to take a look at his face and recoil in shock at the sight before you. The eyes are missing, leaving two ghastly black holes; the tongue hangs out, dark and swollen, and from the corners of the twisted mouth oozes a thick, greenish fluid. Filled with revulsion, you leave the body and step into the secret passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A heap of molten ash is now all that remains of the Flame-man. Then, as suddenly as they began, the jets of flame shut off, leaving the passage ahead shimmering with a heat haze. A laugh, cold and distant, echoes above the ceiling of mist, stirring you to curse Lord Zahda and his deadly maze.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect148-1-foot" idref="sect148-1">
- <p>You may not carry the Helmet at the same time as the Silver Helmet, if you have it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The eggs are warm, and you can feel tiny movements through the leathery shells. Carefully you roll them aside and sift through the debris of the nest; you discover several Items of interest:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>MACE (Weapons)</li>
- <li>PADDED LEATHER WAISTCOAT (Special Items) Adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total when worn.</li>
- <li>SWORD (Weapons)</li>
- <li>HELMET (Special Items) Adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total when worn</li>
- <li>BLANKET (Backpack Items)</li>
- <li>BOTTLE OF WINE (Backpack Items)</li>
- <li>DAGGER (Weapons)</li>
- <li>POTION OF LAUMSPUR (Backpack Items) Restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed; enough for one dose.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you take any of these Items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.<a id="sect148-1" idref="sect148-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <p>The sound of a bolt and the creak of a dry hinge echoes from the chamber behind you, causing your pulse to race anew. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lord Zahda shrieks an unearthly howl as your killing blow rips open his black heart. He thrusts a pleading, claw-like hand towards the roof and drops heavily to his knees, his dying curse lost as blood fills his throat. His left eye gleams brightly for a second then suddenly dies, like a candle flaring in a storm before it is extinguished by the rain. He sways and falls from the pinnacle to be devoured by the hungry flames of the pit.</p>
- <p>Hurrying over to the throne, you draw back your weapon and strike the black crystal with a mighty blow. It splits clean in two, releasing its dark power and showering you with hot sparks in the wake of its destruction. The riven fragments hurtle into the fiery abyss, and the flames grow deadly quiet.</p>
- <p>From the depths of the pit, a terrible roar begins to grow. The pinnacle shakes and a column of flame lights the entire throne-hall as molten lava spews high into the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you wish to take the Lorestone and escape into the steel tube, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to take the Lorestone and search for some other way of escape from the throne-hall, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To begin with, the shattered steps and hollows pose no problems that your agility and skill cannot overcome. However, as you are nearing the top of the stairs, you suddenly find yourself staring into a yawning void: the steps have been sheared away, leaving a gap over twenty feet wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you have neither mastery of Nexus nor a Rope, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cleave a path through the bubbles as easily as if you were scything cobwebs. As your sword punctures their jelly-like skins, they implode and plop to the floor in tatters.</p>
- <p>You move on, your eyes peeled for the slightest hint of danger. A shadow on the floor in the distance makes you wary. Your fear soon turns to dismay, for, as you grow closer, you can see that it is a deep, dark pit that stretches across the entire corridor. There appears to be no way across. Staring at the opposite side, over thirty feet away, you ponder the impossible task confronting you. A sudden glow in the misty ceiling heralds the return of the skull.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="225" height="210" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="225" height="210" />
- </illustration>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>The path across defies your sight;
- <br />Find the path or stay and fight.</quote>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen or Divination, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes home, sinking into the side of another creature. The creature jerks backwards and freezes in a ghastly contortion of pain. The thrashing legs of its wounded companion knock it from the walkway, and it topples stiffly into the chasm.</p>
- <p>Only one creature remains uninjured. It turns on you, its grisly mouth stained green with the blood of its companion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to fire another arrow at this enemy, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to turn and flee into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rising water lifts you, floating you nearer to the swirling mist that is the ceiling of the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to try to escape through the mist, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to dive down and examine the statue, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Flattening yourself against the wall, you watch with growing fear as the trunk crosses the gap and smashes into the steps close to where you stand. A ragged branch cuts open your cheek and another scrapes your ribs, causing you to cry out at the sudden pain (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>As the tree hits the beach below, it quivers in the black sand like a huge javelin. You wipe away the blood from your face and look once more at the shattered staircase above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you do not possess a Rope, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A flash of intense white light blinds you momentarily as jets of fire spurt from the floor and walls. They are so bright and numerous that you cannot see where they end. A searing wave of heat scorches your face (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), forcing you back towards the ravening black wolf.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to stand and fight the wolf, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you choose to run into the blazing inferno, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tavig has stopped screaming long before you force the hand to give up its prize and withdraw, gashed and bleeding, into the gloom of the tunnel. Tavig's body lies motionless at your feet. You stoop to close his sightless eyes and lay his sword upon his bloodstained chest, as is the custom in the land of Slovia when a warrior falls in battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to leave the body and continue, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to search the body before you go, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Snatching the seed from your tunic pocket, you hurl it at the plinth as hard as possible. There is a loud crack as the shell shatters, and a splash of bright flame engulfs the plinth. Soon the hand catches fire; it wriggles and squirms as the flames feed on its loathsome flesh and is soon obscured by a pall of acrid black smoke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to stand back and wait for the flames to die down, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you decide to pass around the fire and enter the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gasping for air, you claw your way to the surface and swim for the rocky shore. Heaving yourself from the cold water, you crouch down, breathless and exhausted, beside a line of huge boulders, half-buried in the coal-black sand, and take stock of your belongings. You have lost two Items from your Backpack, and all the food has been ruined by the tainted water (erase all Meals and two Backpack Items of your choice from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>No sooner have you managed to control your breathing than you hear the sound of scraping, as if some heavy weight were being dragged across the rocks to your left. A vertical crack appears in the surface of the nearest boulder, and a sickly yellow light washes over you. It is not a boulder&emdash;you are staring at a huge eye.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to draw your weapon and attack the eye, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you wish to leap to your feet and escape towards the sheer rock base of Kazan-Oud, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk upon the glittering marble flagstone of Zahda's throne-hall, your footsteps echoing among the circular tiers as you approach the central pit. The chamber is deserted, and only the flickering flames that curl around the pinnacle of black iron shed any light upon the vastness.</p>
- <p><quote>You dare to challenge the power of Zahda?</quote> booms a voice in the darkness above, a voice made thunderous in the cavernous expanse of the throne-hall. A blinding white light holds you in its beam, blazing down from the throne with unnatural intensity. <quote>You dare to pit yourself against the Lord of Kazan-Oud?</quote></p>
- <p>Desperately you try to escape from the beam, but you cannot move. Your muscles are numb and nerveless, paralysed by Zahda's beam.</p>
- <p><quote>I know your purpose&emdash;your identity was revealed to me in the maze. You are the Kai Lord&emdash;the one they call Lone Wolf.</quote> The voice is now filled with anger and indignation. <quote>You have come here to steal that which belongs to me. For such a crime there can be only one penalty&emdash;death!</quote></p>
- <p>A pulse of raw energy hurtles down from the throne, speeding towards you like a burning sun. It consumes you in a searing ball of flame, destroying you completely and forever.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last enemy falls dead at your feet, a section of the wall slides back to reveal an ugly, bearded dwarf, wearing a grimy black velvet jerkin. His pig-like eyes twinkle malevolently as he raises a hollow brass tube and points it at your face.</p>
- <p><quote>Sweet dreams,</quote> he chortles, and a blast of icy-cold vapour shoots from the tip, catching you squarely in the face. You reel back, coughing and choking, as the bitter vapour fills your lungs. By the time your realize that you have inhaled a powerful sleep gas, you are already succumbing to its irresistible power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the few remaining survivors whirl away into the darkness, you sheathe your weapon and kick aside the torn bodies of those who fell to your deadly blows. A stone room awaits you at the bottom of the stairs, featureless and bare except for a weapons' rack hanging on the wall in the far corner. It holds a Spear and a Broadsword, both in remarkably fine condition. The torchlit tunnels offer an exit from this chamber: one descends to the north, the other to the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to enter the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to enter the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shot is fast and deadly accurate: the arrow pierces the warrior's armoured back just above the waist, pitching him forward on to his face. He writhes for a brief moment on the rubbish-strewn floor before surrendering to death.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you race along the corridor, leaving the dead guard and the chamber far behind. You pass through an archway that opens out to a landing at the top of a spiral staircase and you descend the stairs. At the bottom of the stairs a tunnel leads off to the west and the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to go west, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to go east, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step through the green jadin arch and immediately a blistering wave of heat rises up through your body, burning you with agonizing pain. You have stepped into a portal of annihilation, and the last sound that you hear is the faint mocking laughter of Lord Zahda as he watches you walk to your doom from a platform high above the misty ceiling.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You regain consciousness with a start, reaching instinctively for your weapon lest danger be waiting to greet you. A dull throbbing fills your head as you sit up to take stock of your surroundings.</p>
- <p>You find yourself on top of a mound of rotting vegetation, stacked high in the corner of a shadowy chamber. A harsh reptilian odour fills your nostrils: the unmistakable smell of snakes. As your vision clears, you notice, amid the slime that covers the floor, what appear to be undigested human bones. A rib cage, two skulls and several vertebrae are illuminated by a shaft of light that descends from a grate in the ceiling. It flickers and, for a second, you catch a glimpse of a skull-like face through the iron bars. Fear wells up inside you as a chilling laugh pierces the silence. But it is not the sound of the cruel inhuman laughter that freezes your blood, it is the sight of the colossal, wedge-shaped head that is rearing up through the mound on which you sit; it is the head of a gigantic snake.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The colossal, wedge-shaped head of a<br/>gigantic snake rears up before you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="679"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="679"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You leap to your feet and run to the far corner of the chamber, your heart pounding loudly in your ears. The snake rises up almost to the ceiling, its forked tongue flickering angrily below a single yellow eye which is set deep in the centre of its green scaly head. Once more the chamber echoes to cruel laughter as the monster shakes off its rotting nest and slithers forward.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the Kai rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you have neither a bow nor mastery of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake to such an astounding sight that you feel sure you must be dreaming. Before you lies a titanic, circular hall of glittering marble, rising tier on tier like a gigantic amphitheatre. A vast pit fills the centre, from which arises a pinnacle of black iron, which is licked by sheets of flame that roar up from the depths below. Scores of seated creatures crowd the tiers, every one of them staring at you, their eyes like pinpoints of fire gleaming coldly from the shadows of their hooded robes. You hear the rustle of their mocking laughter, and your skin prickles with eerie premonition. A great gong booms in the distance, and a doleful chant arises from the crowded tiers. An urge to run from this evil place grips you like a fever, but your wrists are manacled securely to a bronze ring fixed to the wall above your head.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Scores of seated creatures crowd the tiers, staring<br/>at you, their eyes like pinpoints of fire</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="669"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="669"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p><quote>Let the trial commence!</quote> commands a mighty voice, filling the hall with clamouring echoes. As one, the robed spectators rise from their seats as a shaft of light pours down upon the pinnacle, illuminating the outline of a man, white-haired and gaunt, seated on a massive throne of solid, gleaming gold. Suspended in the air above his head are two crystals: one as clear as a polished diamond; the other as black as the grave. A crackling arc of energy travels between the two, and its flickering blue light sheds a ghostly shadow on the face of the seated lord.</p>
- <p><quote>Intruder,</quote> he says, his voice soft yet chilling, <quote>you have come to Kazan-Oud with murder in your heart. Have not the cowards of Elzian promised to reward you for my destruction?</quote></p>
- <p>A drone of dissent surges from the crowded tiers, drowning any answer that you offer in your defence. The lord rises slowly from the throne and turns to his baying minions, his hands outstretched as if to receive the adulation. As their ghastly drone grows louder, your eye is drawn to the clear crystal that hovers above the throne. A golden light now glows at its core. In a flash of understanding you recognize the object of your quest: here is the Lorestone of Herdos.</p>
- <p><quote>Your verdict, my children?</quote> cries the wild-eyed man, his voice now harsh and angry.</p>
- <p><quote>Guilty, Lord Zahda,</quote> the crowd howls in reply.</p>
- <p><quote>The sentence?</quote> retorts their master.</p>
- <p><quote>The maze!</quote> they scream. <quote>The maze!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On your fifth step, the silence is broken by another crack. The invisible whip bites into the back of your legs, causing your knees to buckle, and you flinch with pain as you stagger forwards.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If it is 3&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that a trap guards this portal; should you choose the wrong number, or numbers, before pulling the lever, the consequences could be fatal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is still pouring from the statue's face, although the pressure has dropped dramatically now that the chamber is nearly full. The entire face has crumbled away under the pressure of the water, leaving a hole the size of a dinner plate. Peering inside, you can see a large nozzle and a lever, both deep within the body, beyond arm's reach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you have a sword, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not have this weapon, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The descending wall is gathering speed at a terrifying pace; there is now very little space left through which to escape.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly there is a flash of blinding light followed by a tremendous explosion. The creature is torn to pieces, consumed by a fireball of blistering yellow flame. The intense heat sears your face and hair (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and hurls you backwards through the air. Shocked and stunned, you drag yourself into the fissure that is now illuminated by the remains of the monster that lie scattered and burning all around you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery reveals that the wall at the bottom of the stairs conceals a secret door. One of the bricks is far smoother than the others, and you sense that it activates the lock which keeps the door closed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to press the brick, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you prefer to follow the tunnel to the west, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you prefer to take the tunnel to the east, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are washed out of the chamber and deposited on the floor of a corridor at the bottom of a steep ramp. Blinking the water from your eyes, you gaze with trepidation at your surroundings. The walls of the corridor, festooned with what appear to be gigantic cocoons, stretch into the distance as far as you can see. The oval door clicks shut and the click reverberates down the corridor, growing louder and louder. In the gloomy corridor ahead you see that something is moving.</p>
- <p>A huge worm-like creature with great black eyes and horny mandibles is slithering towards you, a purple froth bubbling from its mouth as it fastens on your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and you have reached the Kai rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you have a Silver Whistle, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you have neither these skills nor the Special Item, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The frenzied squeal of the rats fills your ears as you force your aching legs to propel you across the beach. Beyond an outcrop of pitted stone, a stream cascades down the sheer rock wall, cutting a deep gully across the beach as it flows into the lake. Spanning this gully is a natural bridge of stone. Its centre is very thin and narrow, and as you near the bridge, you fear it is too thin to support your weight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to cross the narrow stone bridge, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you decide to try to swim across the gully, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blue fire leaps from Zahda's staff, but you intercept and deflect it upon the blade of the sun-sword. The murderous bolt screams into the dark hall, destroying a whole tier of seats with a thunderous concussion.</p>
- <p><quote>You will die&ellips; die&ellips; DIE!</quote> shrieks Zahda like a man possessed. He whirls his staff twice about his head before lunging at your face with its clawed tip. Lord Zahda is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lord Zahda (with power-staff)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">33</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A pall of thick smoke spreads towards you from the body of the creature you have already killed, and your enemies use it to mask their advance. You steel yourself for a shot; but your aim is greatly hindered by the acrid fumes that are making your eyes stream and your throat tighten.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, or the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, deduct 3 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If your total is now 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly and carefully you advance, your eyes straining to see in the gloom. Ahead you notice that the tunnel takes a sharp left turn, but before you can reach the corner, you are frozen in your tracks by a blood-curdling howl that echoes from the vault behind. Spinning round, you stare aghast at the outline of a gigantic black wolf loping along the passage towards you. It moves at a terrifying pace, its evil eyes glowing scarlet and its great fanged jaws wide open in readiness to bite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to stand and fight this ravening wolf, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you decide to turn the corner and run as fast as you can, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The relief is instantaneous. Quickly you move from one stone to the next until you arrive at the shadowy opening in the wall. Echoing in the darkness, you hear the rustle and slither of unseen things. Suddenly something round and black breaks through the surface of the lake, splitting the night with its hideous cry. It hovers for a few seconds above the water before hurtling towards you at an unnerving speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to take cover inside the fissure, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to draw a weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blindly, the young serpents writhe around your feet, their fanged jaws snapping wildly at your unarmoured legs. Combat is unavoidable and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you possess a Fireseed and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="236" height="156" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="236" height="156" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Hactaraton Brood</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain in the combat due to the venomous bite of these creatures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Discipline blocks the psychic assault and eases pain in your head, but the hand senses your resistance and tries a new form of attack. It curls its fingers, forming a grotesque fist, and pounds the plinth repeatedly with slow, heavy blows. Waves of psychic shock buffet your Psi-screen, forcing you to draw on all your strength just to keep the shield from.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and have also reached the Kai rank of Primate,<link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you do not have the power of Psi-surge, or if you have not yet reached the rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on the power of your Kai skill, you take a deep breath and give voice to a single, unbroken tone. Sweat breaks out on your forehead as you raise the pitch of your voice steadily until it passes beyond the range of your own hearing. Suddenly, the bats shriek in unison. They twist and shudder, hurling themselves into the walls and ceiling as your cry paralyses their senses. As the few survivors whirl away into the darkness, you cease your call and hurry down the stairs. (If you used the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, you need not deduct any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>points from your current total.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect236"><link-text>Turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The patrol comes to a halt less than ten feet from where you are hiding. The leader grunts an order and one of the black-clad armoured guards takes a flint from his pocket. He strikes it and sets light to a tar-coated torch fixed to the wall. The torch splutters into life, and you are caught in the glare of its vivid yellow flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you have a bow and wish to fire at the guards before they react to your presence, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to attack the guards with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you decide to run through the chamber and attempt an escape into the opposite corridor, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have no difficulty in looping your Rope around the hilt of the sword and drawing it towards you. It is a very plain, heavy-bladed weapon of poor quality and unworthy of your scabbard, but in this strange and hostile maze, this rough steel blade helps to restore your hope of survival.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to leave the vault by the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you prefer to take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter how hard you prod the slab it shows no sign of movement, but your probing does uncover something previously hidden beneath the dust. Carefully you scrape away the grime until the outline of a coiled snake is revealed, etched deep into the dull grey marble. Carved in the centre of its scaly coils is the number <strong>123</strong>. Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;it could be of use at a later stage of your adventure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to jump across the slab and press on into the tunnel beyond, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you decide to enter the tunnel by walking across the slab, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lungs feel as if they are about to explode, but still the door will not open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you have a Vial of Blue Pills, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to continue to try to open the door with your Magnakai Discipline, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you wish to swim to the surface, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hollow sound, like the clatter of horses' hooves on cobblestones, arrests you in mid-step. Your basic Kai skills warn you that more of these evil creatures are running along the tunnel, heading in your direction. To proceed further would be suicidal. Over two hundred yards of narrow walkway separate you from the opposite tunnel, and as you turn and run, you pray that you reach it before the Dhax appear. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the killing blow, your enemy cries out in agony, materializing as he falls at your feet. At first glance, he appears to be human, but as you search the body you discover otherwise. His eyes, now glazed and lifeless, are cat-like in structure; his fingers are short and tipped with claws; and his lower jaw protrudes several inches below his upper jaw. The skin is badly scarred but not by battle wounds; they are the scars of crude surgery.</p>
- <p>There is no sign of the whip with which he attacked you, but you find a Spear slung by a cord over his shoulder, and a Silver Whistle (mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item) on a chain around his blood-spattered neck. Instinctively, you place the whistle to your lips and blow, but there is no sound. Shaking your head, you turn to face the pit, and there before you, spanning the blackness, is a solid beam of blue metal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to cross the beam, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you choose to retrace your steps along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel descends to a vast, cavernous hall. Spirals of yellow smoke rise up on either side of a narrow stone walkway that leads to its centre. There it meets another path running from east to west. Cautiously you advance along the walkway, your stomach unsettled by the stench of the sulphurous smoke and the sight of the dark, yawning void on either side.</p>
- <p>At the junction, you hear the sound of running feet echoing from an archway to your right. The footfalls grow louder and, suddenly, a man in leather armour bursts out of the darkness, his studded boots striking sparks on the stone pathway as he skids to a halt. Sweat pours down his lean and leathery face, and his eyes flash with fear. He casts an anxious glance over shoulder before unsheathing his sword and advancing towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you have a bow and wish to fire at the warrior, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to draw your weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive through the gap, with barely an inch to spare, and the wall slams down behind you with a tremendous crunch. You lie flat on your back, your heart pounding fit to burst, your stomach churning at the thought of how near you came to death. Wearily, you get to your feet and press on along the tunnel, which is now noticeably cooler and clearer than before. You soon emerge into a hall that is filled with a strong, earthy smell. Two rows of great stone pillars support the roof, and a huge granite sarcophagus stands in the centre of the floor. From the black entrance of a tunnel to your right, you hear the clanking of armour and the sound of approaching footsteps.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to hide behind one of the pillars, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to leave the hall by a tunnel to your left, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you decide to lie in ambush for whoever or whatever it is that is approaching the hall, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck and weave to present a difficult target to your enemy, but at such short range it is difficult for him to miss. The bolt hits you as you are diving forward, passing right through your skull and killing you instantly.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tentacle shudders as you direct the full power of your psychic discipline at the huge, wounded eye. Its grip weakens and you seize the chance to tear yourself free and scramble to your feet. The use of your Magnakai Discipline has cost you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it has saved you from a ghastly death. Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41"><link-text>Turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab the Fireseed from your pocket and hurl it to the ground. It explodes on impact with a blinding flash. Hissing and spitting, the serpent brood slither away into the shadows, eager to escape the stinging pain of the flames.</p>
- <p>More noises echo from the chamber. This time it is the chinking of armour and weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the symptoms of takadea, or <quote>gaolrot</quote> as it is commonly called in your country. As you approach the trembling man, you reassure him that you mean him no harm, that you can help him if only he will trust you. Placing your hands over his eyes, you transfuse the healing power of your Magnakai skill into his sick body, concentrating your energy into reversing the terrible effects of the disease. When you remove your hands, his eyes are no longer opaque; they gleam with a cat-like intensity.</p>
- <p><quote>I can see,</quote> he says in astonishment, his voice cracked with emotion. <quote>How can I ever repay you for this miracle?</quote> Before you can answer, the sound of running feet echoes along the corridor outside.</p>
- <p><quote>Follow me,</quote> he says, springing to his feet. <quote>If Zahda's guards find you in here they'll kill us both.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The staircase seems to continue forever, coiling its way upwards through the solid rock, but eventually you arrive at a landing from which a tunnel stretches into darkness. You are about to enter, when your basic Kai instincts alert you to a shallow step that crosses from one side of the tunnel to the other. A closer look reveals the step to be a perfect square of marble that covers the first ten feet of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to prod the marble slab with a weapon to test for a trap, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to jump across the slab into the tunnel beyond, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you decide to enter the tunnel by walking across the slab, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the gore from your face and hands, you fight back the nausea that rises in your throat when you think of how close you came to a grisly death in the jaws of the monster. The dim light grows suddenly brighter, and for a moment, you hear laughter, cold and distant, before the light dims once more to its usual murky glow and silence descends.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322"><link-text>Turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the corridor echoes to the clangour of an alarm bell. A solid sheet of iron crashes down from the ceiling to seal off the chamber behind you, and in the murky distance, you see a similar barrier descending in front of the wooden door by which you entered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow whistles through the air towards the oncoming sphere. Impact looks imminent until the black ball suddenly changes course, darting aside at the last possible moment to avoid the missile. The arrow splashes harmlessly in the lake, and you are forced to shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon as the menacing sphere resumes its attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to stand and fight this object, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you decide to evade its attack by moving deeper into the fissure, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using every scrap of cover to hide your passing, you move through the chamber like a phantom. As soon as you set foot into the corridor beyond, you are confronted by an armoured guard. He screams a cry that is muffled by the visor of his black helmet and turns and runs towards a bell-rope that hangs from a hole in the ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you realize the horrific purpose of the hand. It is a predator, an evil sentient being that can only survive by consuming one form of nourishment&emdash;live human brain.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The hand is a predator&emdash;it can only survive<br/>by consuming live human brain</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="668"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="668"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Diving and rolling, you avoid its initial attack, escaping with scratches to your scalp (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but as it rises above you once more, you cannot help but fear that your life is soon to end. This creature is immune to Mindblast, but <em>not</em> Psi-surge in combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rahkos</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the dead man's hauberk as that of a Kakush mercenary: the ten-pointed star of Nikesa, the symbol of that country's capital city, adorns each of the rusty buckles that fasten his chainmail armour. In a leather pouch hanging from his belt you discover 6 Gold Crowns, and inside the tattered remains of his Backpack, there is a Rope and a hooded Red Robe.</p>
- <p>A close examination of the weapons shows them both to be quite useless: the bone-handled dagger crumbles to dust when you try to dislodge it from the corpse's skull, and the blade of the sword is dull and eaten by rust.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you now wish to continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you decide to climb the stairs and investigate the open trap door, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Chunks of stone and iron are blasted into the upper reaches of the throne-hall by the increasing power of the eruptions. Boulders, some the size of horses, seem to tumble in slow motion all around the beam as you are drawn irresistibly nearer to the roof. Suddenly the beam fades and you find yourself standing on a circular plinth in the centre of a ruined temple near to the gatehouse of the castle keep. The glare of daylight blinds you, but as you gradually become accustomed to it you cast your eyes over the shimmering waters of Lake Khor to the town of Herdos, perched on the horizon. The walls of the fortress are beginning to crack and slant. Buildings are crumbling, and the ground is alive with constant vibration. You run through the ruined main gate as bolts of lightning are drawn from the sky by the dying power of Kazan-Oud.</p>
- <p>At the top of a ruined staircase you stare down at the lake far below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to descend the steps to the old jetty, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you choose to make your way to the beach, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you decide to dive from the cliff into the water far below, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way quickly along the tunnel until you reach a chamber illuminated by a shaft of shimmering red light that descends from a square hole in the ceiling. A pair of huge iron doors fills the opposite wall, but in order to reach them you will have to pass through the eerie red light. Close to the archway by which you entered, another tunnel exits from the chamber, curving off towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to walk through the red light to examine the iron doors, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to leave the chamber by the east tunnel,<link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A howling blue fire leaps from Zahda's staff and instinctively you hurl yourself to the floor to evade its searing heat. The bolt screams past into the darkness of the hall, where it explodes in a splash of vivid sparks.</p>
- <p>Zahda screams with anger and frustration and attempts to crush your head with one vicious blow, but you save yourself by rolling aside, and the staff cleaves open the black iron floor. A gout of flame rises from the split and blisters the mad lord's hand; he shrieks like a wounded crow, and the staff drops from his fire-blackened fingers.</p>
- <p>You see your chance to attack and lash out, but Zahda is quick to react. He leaps backwards, unsheathing a glowing dagger as he steadies himself on the brink of the abyss. Lord Zahda is immune to Mindblast but not Psi-surge.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lord Zahda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
-
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your trembling hands clasped tightly around the slippery green rope, you fight to lock your feet together to prevent yourself from sliding into the heaving swell. The crack of splintering wood fills the night as the coracle shatters and sinks without trace. A sudden jolt runs the length of the rope, and a snaky head rises from the black water. It dips and swerves upwards, opening its jaws, set with fangs like long yellow knives, and fixing you with its blind white eyes. You are clinging to the body of a deadly Lekhor that is poised to strike.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You are clinging to the body of a deadly<br/>Lekhor that is poised to strike</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="677"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="677"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to release your grip of this deadly serpent and dive into the water, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to draw a weapon and defend yourself against its venomous attack, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The temperature grows higher with every step you take, but as the first flame washes over your body, you feel no heat or pain at all. The gout of flame feels cool and refreshing, like a breeze on a hot summer's day. You quicken your step and soon emerge from the heatless flames into the empty passage beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the man is petrified with fear. An aura of evil grows stronger by the second, radiating from the darkened archway like a terrible black heat. The evil is so strong that it blocks your Discipline, and you cannot be sure if the warrior is a friend or a foe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to draw a weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to avoid a confrontation by running into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you have a bow and wish to fire at the warrior,<link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim and fire a fraction of a second later, hitting the leader in the chest. He tumbles backwards, knocked off his feet by the force of your arrow. His followers growl their anger, unsheathing long knives and axes as they press forward to wreak their.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zahda Beastmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 17.</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If combat lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The key fits perfectly. You turn it and the door gives way instantly, forced wide open by the huge weight of water pressing upon it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trunk tumbles into the gap, followed by a deluge of rock and rubble. As the dust clears, you find yourself still staring at the staircase above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you do not possess a Rope, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow makes the Oudagorg twist back on itself, its head disappearing into the misty ceiling. There is a deafening crack as blue lightning engulfs its neck, crackling snake-like around its horrible body and filling the corridor with the smell of burning meat. The creature thrashes wildly for several minutes, and when its gruesome dance finally ends you see that the canopy of mist is no longer there. In the darkness above you see a deserted walkway and a metal observation platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to climb on to the body of the dead Oudagorg and pull yourself on to the platform,<link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to climb over the worm-like carcass and continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more you call on your Kai mastery to save you from reptilian threat, and once more it proves effective. The snakes turn away and slither to the safety of their nest, repelled by your presence as if the sight of you were as repulsive to them as the sight of them is to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The only way you can cross the gap is by climbing the rock wall. However, the surface is virtually sheer, and any attempt to climb it without proper equipment would be perilous in the extreme.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to attempt such a climb, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you decide to descend the stairs and continue along the beach, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Beastman crashes to the floor, two more come rushing in from the cell compound. They growl with anger at the sight of their dead comrade-in-arms and launch themselves in a fearsome attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Beastman Gaoler No. 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Beastman Gaoler No. 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a click and the panel slides open to reveal the small, dimly lit interior of the sarcophagus. A set of stairs descends to a strong wooden door that is reinforced with strips and studs of iron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to enter the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you decide not to enter, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron door is several inches thick and will demand a tremendous effort to raise it high enough off the floor for you to escape underneath it.</p>
- <p>To raise the door follow the normal combat rules as if you were unarmed (subtract 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total). If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you need not deduct any points from your<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose during this <quote>combat</quote> represent the fatigue you suffer as you strain to lift the heavy door.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Tunnel Door</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="resistance">50</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect277">You may cease <quote>combat</quote> at any time and explore the tunnel instead; <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you reduce the door's resistance (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to 0, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you peer at the horrible hand, it suddenly leaps at your face. You scream with terror, instinctively lashing out to deflect its attack. You strike it hard and send it spinning towards the green pillars and the passage beyond. Just as it draws level with the pillars the hand explodes: it has spun straight into an invisible barrier of destructive energy that flows between the pillars. As the hand disintegrates into thousands of tiny fragments you feel elated that, at last, victory is yours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334"><link-text>Turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your relief you discover that the door is unlocked and unguarded. Beyond it, a torchlit corridor descends through a series of deserted chambers, each one defaced by years of neglect and decay. Rotting curtains and mouldering furniture are all that remain of a sumptuous abode, a luxurious underground retreat for the Lord of Kazan-Oud.</p>
- <p>You are about to enter another of these chambers when the sound of muttering stops you dead in your tracks. Three spindly limbed creatures are seated at a table in the centre of the room. They chatter excitedly in a language that is alien to your ears and point with slim, green fingers at a parchment spread out before them. They wear long, hooded robes of purple silk and appear to be unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to launch a surprise attack on these unsuspecting creatures, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to try to sneak through the chamber and attempt to reach the opposite corridor unseen, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The strength of your Kai mastery overcomes the pain that tears at your mind, and you swiftly regain full control of your body. Snatching up your weapon from the hot black sand, you lash out at the tendril, severing its tip. But instead of blood, or what would pass for blood in the body of this ghastly creature, a flame sparks into life like a spluttering fuse. The brain ceases to move, hovering motionless above the sand, as the spitting flame burns fiercely along its thin tube of sundered flesh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first bubble bursts with a loud bang that causes the creature to howl with fear. You watch as the great black hound scrambles to a halt, its horrible face lined with fear. Whimpering pitifully it backs slowly up the corridor. At the corner it howls with frustration before slinking away out of sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lash out at the monster's eyelid and open a terrible wound. But before you can deal another a bolt of red fire screams down from the grating, hits your shoulder, and paralyses your whole arm with a sickening pain. You reel back, your weapon clattering to the ground as your fingers are robbed of all feeling (lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>The snake writhes and twists in blind rage, its open jaws seeking you out to exact its revenge. It soon picks up your scent and attacks with frightening speed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Hactaraton</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Your weapon lies on the ground near your feet, and you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total for the first two rounds of combat. If you are still alive at the beginning of the third round, you can retrieve your weapon. Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you lose during the combat, due to the venomous bite of your enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your companion rolls the body over and unsheathes a Short Sword and a Dagger from the belt. You may take the Axe that was used in combat and the Dagger, if you wish.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="292" height="103" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="292" height="103" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At the bottom of the stairs is a deserted hallway at the end of which are two great doors of gleaming bronze. Sumptuous tapestries and statuettes of gold line the walls on either side, and an ornate fountain of silvered marble fills the hall with a melodious bubbling sound.</p>
- <p>You have covered less than twenty feet when an armoured guard steps into view from behind the fountain. He raises a crossbow and you shout a warning to your new-found partner&emdash;but you are too late. The bolt hisses through the air, hitting him with such force that he is knocked off his feet and sent crashing to the ground. The guard fumbles in a leather pouch for another quarrel with which to despatch you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you wish to aid your wounded companion, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you decide to attack the guard before he can reload his weapon, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A great toad-like face stares unblinkingly into your eyes as it emerges from the shadows to bask in the green light that illuminates the beach. Its body, pale and bloated like a huge, fat worm, slithers into view, and you shudder at the sight of the open sores that disfigure its skin.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A great toad-like face stares unblinkingly into your eyes</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="692"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="692"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>A ghastly noise echoes from deep within its open mouth as it rears up to attack you with a razor-sharp tongue. Due to the surprise of its attack, you cannot make use of a bow.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zagothal</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you wish, you may evade after two rounds of combat; <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, you may evade combat at any time without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip and fall but miraculously you manage to hang on to the invisible beam. Your legs are stinging (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but you ignore the pain, concentrating all your effort on swinging them back on to the beam. Just as you succeed, the crack of the whip resounds once more and burns its mark across your back (lose another <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p>When the whip cracks a third time it cuts only air, for you have crawled out of range of its cruel bite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A searing current of pain runs the length of your arm and explodes in your head. Lights flash before your eyes, and you collapse into unconsciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your hand closes around the hilt of the sword, somewhere in the mist above your head the voice of the skull speaks a chilling rhyme:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="225" height="210" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="225" height="210" />
- </illustration>
- <blockquote>
- <p>Hand to take;
- <br />Spell to break;
- <br />Stir a terror
- <br />In your wake.
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you still wish to pick up the sword, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide not to take the sword and wish to leave the vault by the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you prefer to leave by the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the faint green light of the power-shield illuminates your moving target. You notch an arrow and take careful aim as it speeds up the beach, weaving in and out of the boulders that litter its path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without any warning, the hand springs to life. It stands upright on its fingers, the first two drawn back so that it resembles a monstrous spider preparing to attack. You step back aghast as it scurries around in a circle on the granite plinth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to attack the hand, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it at the plinth, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to skirt around the plinth and enter the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>His pack and the pockets of his leather armour contain the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough dried meat for 1 Meal</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Vial of Blue Pills</li>
- <li>Bottle of Water</li>
- <li>Power-key</li>
- </ul>
- <p>All the Items, with the exception of the Power-key, which is a Special Item, are Backpack Items. If you wish to take any of them, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, you can identify the nature of the Blue Pills by <link-text>turning to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">To leave the body and continue, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stone blocks crumble on the third blow, and you waste no time climbing through the hole and into the rough-hewn tunnel beyond. The canopy of mist no longer obscures the ceiling and the tunnel is dark and damp; you feel sure that you have escaped from the maze.</p>
- <p>The tunnel twists and turns like a gigantic snake until you arrive at a wall made up of planks of wood. The timber is rotten and you have no difficulty gaining access to the vaulted corridor beyond. The tunnel on this side of the wooden wall is far cleaner and drier, and you walk easily along it until you come to a junction: a passage crosses from left to right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to take the passage to your left, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to take the passage to your right, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart pounding, you run as fast as you can towards the shelter of the rocky base of Kazan-Oud. Panting for breath, you reach the glistening black stone wall, where you discover a ragged fissure that splits its sheer surface. You are about to step in, when the rustle and slither of unseen things, echoing from the inky darkness, make you hesitate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to enter the fissure, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to press on along the beach, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you swallow the pills, you feel your body relax and your lungs cease to ache. Oxygen is being drawn from the water around you, absorbed by your body through the pores of your skin.</p>
- <p>Freed from the immediate threat of drowning, you apply yourself to finding a way out of this watery tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to try to open the locked door, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to examine the statue, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a soft click and the panel slides open to reveal a set of steps leading down to a wooden door, its timber reinforced with bands of iron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to enter the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you decide against entering, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow pierces the leading creature's arm. It staggers and howls abysmally as a thick, green fluid oozes from the wound. To your surprise and disgust, the others leap upon their injured companion, biting and clawing at the wound with their teeth and talons. The limb is swiftly torn from the body and consumed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to draw another arrow and fire again, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you decide to shoulder your bow and evade these ghoulish creatures by escaping into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Relentlessly the worm moves forward, forcing you back up the ramp towards the oval door. But there is no escape this way&emdash;you have no choice but to fight the repulsive creature. The monster is especially susceptible to psychic attack. If you choose to use Mindblast or Psi-surge during combat, double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained by the enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Oudagorg</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">17</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the tangle of greyish-green weed half-submerged in the waters around your sinking boat. It is Black Lakeweed, a carnivorous plant commonly found in the swamps and freshwater lakes of central Magnamund. Forewarned by your Kai mastery, you dive into the lake and swim submerged until you are clear of the deadly plants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hand is fast, but you are faster. Diving and rolling, you avoid its initial attack and crouch ready to receive its next attempt. It rises once more and, as you stare at its ghastly form, you suddenly realize its horrific purpose. It is a predator, an evil, sentient being that can only survive by consuming an exclusive form of nourishment&emdash;live human brain. You fight back your rising fear as it speeds towards you. This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge) in combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rahkos</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A stone room awaits you at the bottom of the stairs, featureless and bare except for a weapons rack hanging on the wall in the far corner. It holds a Spear and a Broadsword, both in remarkably fine condition. Two torchlit tunnels offer exits from the chamber; one descends to the north, the other to the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to enter the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to enter the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive and roll, but your Backpack hits the falling wall and jams. In the next instant you are crushed by twenty tons of solid stone.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission have come to a tragic end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rolling the body over with the toe of your boot, you quickly check for useful Items and discover the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>2 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Remember to mark any Items you wish to keep on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before making your escape down the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sharp crack of splintering wood fills your ears as you are thrown bodily through the air. The stinking cobblestones of the jetty greet your return to earth, and instinctively you roll on landing to lessen the shock of impact. You are winded but otherwise unharmed. Staggering to your feet, you see two rough-hewn staircases at the far end of the jetty: one ascends to a cave-like entrance in the sheer rock wall; the other leads down to a tiny beach covered with boulders and black sand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to climb the staircase to the entrance above, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to descend to the beach below, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cover fifty yards before the passage opens into a large, circular chamber. There, on a plinth in the centre of the floor, rests a severed human hand. The skin is mottled and swollen, the fingers black and decayed. Beyond the plinth, the passage continues straight ahead, flanked by two pillars of speckled green stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to examine the severed hand, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you wish to skirt around the plinth and enter the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bolt of red fire whistles past your head and explodes just above the archway. Fragments of rock graze your scalp and you are momentarily blinded as you run through the debris. As you raise your arm to wipe your face on your sleeve, another bolt catches you squarely in the back and pitches you flat on your stomach.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, deduct 1 from this number. The resulting figure represents the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost due to the attack. Fighting back the pain, you clamber to your feet and stagger into the dust-choked tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer into the keyhole but cannot see beyond the plate that hides the mechanism. The water reaches your chin, submerging the lock completely, and you are forced to tilt back your head in order to breathe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach the centre of the bridge, the leading rats are flowing up the slope of the arch. You turn and confront them, drawing a weapon in preparation for a fight to the death, if necessary. As they swarm nearer, you lash out, cleaving them from the narrow apex to fall, splashing, into the torrent of water below.</p>
- <p>With your third blow, a shudder runs through the stone, causing you to stagger and fall. You land on the opposite bank, winded but otherwise unharmed. A loud crack fills the night and the whole centre section of the bridge collapses into the gully with a tremendous splash. Safe now from the ravenous rats, you can afford to continue along the beach at a less punishing pace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of this Lore-circle enables you to understand the creatures' strange language, and from the shadows of the entrance you listen intently to their conversation.</p>
- <p><quote>Repairs in the central shaft are nearly finished. In three suns' time we will be able to continue,</quote> comments a reedy voice.</p>
- <p><quote>We cannot wait that long,</quote> interrupts another, its voice deeper and angrier in tone. <quote>Lord Zahda ordered the tunnelling to begin again without delay. We must obey his command.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But the risks are too great,</quote> retorts the first voice. <quote>We lost a hundred slaves in the flood&emdash;next time we may lose more than just slaves.</quote></p>
- <p>A noise in the corridor alerts you to approaching danger: a patrol of armoured guards is heading in your direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to try to sneak through the chamber and attempt to reach the opposite corridor unseen, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to hide in the shadows of the doorway, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hound bounds forward and leaps at your chest, slamming you to the ground with its monstrous weight. Its fangs flash before your eyes, and a burning saliva stings your face. With all the strength you can muster you fight desperately for survival.</p>
- <p>The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hound of Death</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your command works: the pain quickly subsides. However, the creature's rubbery tendril is still drawing closer to your vulnerable throat. Snatching up your weapon from the hot, black sand, you lash out and sever the tip, but instead of blood, or what would pass for blood in the body of this ghastly creature, a flame sparks into life like a spluttering fuse. The brain ceases to move, hovering motionless above the sand, as the spitting flame burns fiercely along the thin tube of flesh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You need not fear me,</quote> you say, trying to calm the frightened man. <quote>I will not harm you.</quote></p>
- <p>The sound of your voice stops him shaking. He turns his scarred face towards you and asks, <quote>Have the Elder Magi sent you here?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to answer the man, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to leave the cell without answering his question, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before your last defeated enemy hits the ground, you are sprinting along the corridor, anxious to leave the chamber and the dying guards far behind. You pass through an archway that leads on to an open landing at the top of a spiral staircase and hurry down. At the bottom, a tunnel leads off to the west and the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to go west, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to go east, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Snickering with evil delight, the creatures stalk closer and closer. Talons spring from the fingers of their leathery, webbed hands, and their eyes blaze with wild red fire as they prepare to pounce.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Snickering with evil delight, the Dhax stalk closer and closer</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="673"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="673"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <combat><enemy>Dhax</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect241">You may evade after three rounds of combat by running into the archway opposite; <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your hand around the Lorestone of Herdos, and your senses reel as a wave of energy washes over your body (restore your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to its original total). Your senses tingle and a new-found strength wipes away the fatigue of your terrible ordeal, enabling you to assess the situation anew. A vibration runs through the iron floor, a forewarning of the eruptions that will tear Kazan-Oud to pieces. Swiftly you descend the spiral stairs and sprint along the tube, oblivious of the heat and noise that buffet you mercilessly as you run towards the distant hall. There, you find everything in chaos: Zahda's minions, his guards and his slaves run in blind confusion as they try to escape from the impending doom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to fight your way up the stairs to the prison cell complex level and try to escape from there, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you choose to ignore the stairs and follow the corridor on this level, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see the faint outline of stepping stones, stretching across the beach to a narrow crack in the rock wall. You sense that there is an entrance there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to descend to the beach and investigate further, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you decide to climb the staircase to the entrance above, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes several minutes of continuous probing and twisting with the tip of your sword to persuade the plate to slide across, but still the door does not open. The effect of the pills is beginning to wear off now, and the pain is slowly returning to your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to continue to probe the lock with your sword, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you choose to abandon the door, only the statue offers any hope of escaping from this chamber; <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you take aim and fire, but the creature escapes with just a graze across its dog-like forehead. Screaming with fury, it hurtles along the walkway and throws itself, clawing and snapping, at your face. You drop your bow and unsheathe a weapon just in time to receive its attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dhax</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect277">You may evade combat at any time by running into the archway opposite; <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive straight and true, avoiding the bodies that float on the surface, and enter the water at a perfect angle. Unfortunately, the water is scalding hot&emdash;fissures of molten lava have erupted through the brittle crust of the shallows. You scream all the way the surface, but the shock paralyses your limbs and you sink like a stone shortly afterwards.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A number of trees were unearthed by the falling tower, and one of them lies balanced precariously over the edge of the rock wall above. You focus your Kai mastery on this trunk, and after great mental exertion, you cause it to topple over the edge. As it crashes down the stairs, you fight to steer it end over end so that it comes to rest across the gap. But it gathers speed too quickly and is soon falling out of control.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 20 or more, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dark corridor greets you beyond the door. You enter and feel your way along the wall, guided only by a tiny light in the distance. The sudden screech of metal sends a chill down your spine, and to your horror, you see a wall of black iron falling in front of the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Another crack cuts the air, and you flinch as the invisible whip draws a crimson line across your thigh (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You strain your Kai senses trying to discover the location of your enemy, but the magic that shields him is very strong.</p>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight. If you possess a Blanket or a Red Robe, you may wrap it around your arm as extra protection from the blows of your enemy (it will increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 1 point).</p>
- <combat><enemy>Invisible Whipmaster</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect64">You may evade combat after three rounds by running back along the passage; <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The faint green glow of the power-shield is the only source of light in the cave. Cautiously you advance, but you are soon swallowed up by the darkness, and progress becomes painfully slow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern, or a Torch and Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you do not have any of these Items, and wish to continue ahead in total darkness, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you prefer to abandon the cave and return to the beach below, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the dead wolf's blood from your eyes, you turn to face the floating bubbles that cluster in the corridor beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to push your way past them, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to cut a path through them with your sword, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you decide to retrace your steps to the vault and take the other tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel reeks with the rancid odour of decay, and to your dismay, you discover that it is no more than a shallow cave&emdash;a shelter for a clutch of gigantic eggs, each one as large as a barrel of ale. They rest upon a bed of packs and torn clothing, belonging to previous adventurers who fell foul of the giant snake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to examine these items more closely, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to search for a way to escape from the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both the skull and the echo of its voice gradually disappear, to be replaced by the sound of heavy footsteps approaching from the passage behind. The gloomy corridor looks deserted, but the footsteps are growing louder and louder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you have a Flask of Wine or a Bottle of Water, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you have neither of these Items, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is locked, but the mechanism is so rusted that it crumbles under the slightest pressure. Inside is a squalid little room filled with barrels, crates and dusty bottles of wine, all sour. On a damp wooden bench lies a Short Sword, and beside it a plain circular Shield (if you wish to take either of these Items, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, the Shield is a Special Item which adds 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> when used in combat).</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to search the room further, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you decide to leave the room and explore the stairs, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your brain is starved of oxygen your vision grows dimmer, and you feel light-headed. Gradually the pain that burns in your chest fades away as unconsciousness smothers your senses. You sink slowly to the floor, weighed down by the water that now fills your lungs.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crowd howls its approval as a rickety, hunchbacked creature, swathed in a hooded robe, approaches the platform on which you stand manacled to the wall. Deftly he strips you of all your weapons and passes them to an ugly-faced dwarf, hovering close by his side.</p>
- <p><quote>Take him to the maze,</quote> commands the white-haired lord. His cruel, mocking laughter echoes in your ears as you are dragged from the hall in chains.</p>
- <p>Erase all weapons and weapon-like Special Items from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and make a note of them on a separate piece of paper in case you should rediscover them at a later stage of your adventure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">Now <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plunge your weapon into the monstrous eye and gouts of a luminous jelly-like substance pour from the wound. A ghastly inhuman scream of pain rises from the ground beneath your feet. Jets of hissing steam erupt through the sand, and a stinging cloud of grit assails your eyes.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You plunge your weapon into the monstrous eye and gouts<br/>of a luminous jelly-like substance pour from the wound</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="681"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="681"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>You reel backwards, shielding your face from the blast, but an unexpected blow to your legs sends you sprawling to the ground (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Before you can rise, a warty, green tentacle coils round your waist and pulls you slowly towards the mutilated eye.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess this skill or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To prevent the guard from reaching the bell-rope you are forced to fire without taking careful aim.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If your total is now 6 or lower, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the gleaming throne and the dais of black iron rock upon which it rests and discover a pentacle carved deep into the gold. As you trace its design with your finger, a sound grows above the din of destruction&emdash;a sound like the tinkling of a thousand tiny bells. In the blackness above the throne, a speckled glow appears. Slowly it descends towards you until a large section of the dais is engulfed by a column of shimmering blue light.</p>
- <p>You reach up and a wave of energy surges through your body as you close your hand around the Lorestone of Herdos (restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to its original total). Your senses tingle and a new-found strength wipes away the fatigue of your terrible ordeal, enabling you to assess the situation anew.</p>
- <p>The column of light is a magical transporter, a beam in which gravity has been reduced almost to zero. By entering it you will be drawn towards the surface level of Kazan-Oud.</p>
- <p>Without hesitation you pocket the Lorestone and step into the magical beam.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Simultaneously, you jump across the slab, rolling over as you hit the solid floor beyond. The creatures laugh horribly. They raise their sinewy arms and spread their webbed fingers, shooting forth their talons like curved assassins' knives. They lurch forward to attack, blinded by bloodlust to the danger that lies beneath their cloven hooves.</p>
- <p>In an instant their laughter turns to lamentation as the slab drops away and they disappear, screaming as they plummet, into a deep, dark abyss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the red light washes over you a tingling sensation passes through your body, leaving your muscles stiff and painful. Your limbs feel abnormally heavy, and soon you have great difficulty putting one foot in front of the other. Suddenly the ground shakes and a large slab of stone rises from the floor to seal off the exit; a loud hissing fills your ears.</p>
- <p>A strangely bitter smell assails your nostrils. By the time you realize that the air is being flooded with a powerful sleep gas, pumped from vents hidden in the ceiling, you are already succumbing to its irresistible power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A noise, like the sound of a thousand screeching cats, issues from the statue, and water pours from its eyes and mouth. The stream quickly becomes a raging torrent and threatens to flood the chamber. You turn and run towards the passage, but, to your dismay, you find the passage is now sealed off by a wall of solid stone.</p>
- <p>With the water level at your waist, you wade across to the oval-shaped door and feverishly examine the lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you have a Skeleton Key, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hideous creature lets out a deafening cry as you strike your final blow. It crashes to the ground, displacing a ton of sand as its massive bulk settles on the beach. Attached to a heavy black chain around its loathsome midriff is a Gold Key. If you wish to take this Key, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, which you keep in your pocket.</p>
- <p>Your victory raises your spirits, but they soon sink again when you hear the unmistakable sound of rats&emdash;the chase has resumed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the tunnel for nearly an hour before arriving at a torchlit hall, whose walls are hung with beautiful tapestries, undamaged by the damp that pervades the upper levels of the grim fortress. It looks as if the hall is a dead end, and you are about to turn back when you notice a small door tucked away in one corner of the opulent chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to open the door, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you prefer to take a closer look at the tapestries, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A flood of armoured guards pours down the stairs, followed by a pair of hideous black-skinned, dog-faced creatures that wield long, glowing maces. You brace yourself for their assault, but they advance no closer. Instead the creatures make dreadful snickering sounds and raise their maces, tapping the ends together before simultaneously pointing them at you.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you are torn with an agonizing pain, as your chest explodes in a gout of red flame. You topple backwards, your body almost rent in two by the bolt of destructive energy.</p>
- <choice>You have fallen victim to deadly Dhax power-staves, and your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first glance, the door looks completely smooth: no locks, bars, rivets or hinges mar its polished surface. However, a closer examination reveals a tiny keyhole set near to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you have a Gold Key, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tumble into the pit and are swallowed up by total darkness. You fall at a terrifying speed for what seems an eternity and, after several minutes, you lapse into unconsciousness. It is a blessing, for you are spared the agonizing pain of being burnt alive when your body hits a lava pool ten thousand feet below.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you aim and fire. The arrow sinks feather-deep into the skull of the creature seated to your left. The others shriek with horror and surprise and leap from their seats, scrambling to take cover behind the table. Suddenly the clang of a bell fills the room, and the sound of running footsteps echoes along the corridor. Four warriors burst into the chamber, their weapons drawn, their bodies encased in shiny black armour. They take one look at the dead creature and hurl themselves at you in a frenzied attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to fire your bow again, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you decide to shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken only a few steps when you hear a faint whispering sound. You watch, horrified, as the hard stone floor beneath your feet disappears into a yawning black hole. Helpless, you tumble into the void, knocking yourself unconscious on a jagged outcrop of rock as you plummet into unknown depths.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164"><link-text>Turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature launches itself at the cocoons, shearing them from the wall with its razor-sharp mandibles. The air is filled with fibrous shards and dust, and you no longer have a hiding place. You have no choice but to retreat along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In response to your psychic power, the sword rises from the block and glides towards your open hand. It is a plain, heavy-bladed weapon of poor quality and unworthy of your scabbard, but in this strange and hostile maze, this rough steel blade helps to restore your hopes of survival.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to leave the vault by the left tunnel, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to leave by the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect280-1-foot" idref="sect280-1">
- <p>You must reduce the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to zero before turning to either section.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tavig is barely visible inside the massive fist that is retreating down the tunnel. His screams, and the low rumbling growl of the monster that holds him, echo in your ears as you unsheathe your weapon and give chase. You must strike on the move if you are to break the monster's grip and save Tavig from a ghastly death.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Tavig is barely visible inside the massive<br/>fist that is retreating down the tunnel</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="681"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="681"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <combat><enemy>Giant Fist</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you reduce the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to zero in three combat rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If combat lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.<a id="sect280-1" idref="sect280-1-foot" class="footnote"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pressing yourself flat against the tunnel wall, you draw on your skill to mask the warmth of your body. Nausea rises in your throat as the loathsome snakes slither across your feet and coil around your legs, but to them you are of no more interest than the cold and clammy stones that cover the tunnel floor. The snakes move on, leaving you shaken but unharmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear footsteps on the stairs&emdash;more of the enemy are approaching. If they, too, are armed with crossbows, your chances of survival will be very slim indeed. Before you stand two great bronze doors, flanked on either side by tapestries and gold statuettes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to open the doors and enter, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to examine the tapestries, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you decide to stand and fight the approaching enemy, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The vast swarm reels back to feast upon the mutilated remains of their kin that lie piled in heaps all around you. Your arms, legs and hands are bleeding from several small nips and gashes, where one or more of the rats broke through your formidable defence to bury their chisel-like teeth into your skin. Your victory has bought you time to think, but it will be only a matter of seconds before the rats launch another attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to climb over the reef of jagged rocks to your left, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you decide to drag your coracle back into the water and escape from the bay, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Covering your nose with your Kai cloak, you edge your way around the smoking flames and head towards the passage. As you step through the entrance, you walk straight into an invisible barrier, a field of destructive energy that flows between the two green pillars. With a thunderous concussion, you are repelled from the shield and sent tumbling back into the chamber (lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points; lose only 6 points if you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus).</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bats are ravenously hungry and have been stirred to a frenzy by the unexpected smell of their favourite food&emdash;warm human blood. It is too late to avoid combat; you must fight for your life if you are not to become their feast.</p>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, you must double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during the fight, due to the bats' poisonous saliva.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vampire Bats</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An escort of armoured guards forces you along a steel passageway lined by a crowd of jeering minions. They punch and spit as you pass between them, and their foul curses ring in your ears. The guards halt before a huge door of iron and unlock the manacles that encase your bruised and bloodied wrists. The points of their spears never wander far from your throat, discouraging any attempt at escape. The door rumbles open, and a cheer goes up as you are pushed head first into a foul-smelling pit.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome to the maze,</quote> sneers the chilling voice of Lord Zahda from somewhere high above your head. You struggle to your feet and peer up at a ceiling of swirling mist. A faint glow is gradually taking shape, condensing and forming into the likeness of a human skull. Baleful green eyes stare down at you from bony sockets, and a powdered wig, like that of a high court judge, sits squarely upon its fleshless head.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="225" height="210" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="225" height="210" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You came here to kill but your plans have been foiled and now you must face the consequence,</quote> echoes a voice in the skull. <quote>You have been sentenced to enter the Maze of Zahda. If you escape, your life may be spared; if you fail then you will surely die&emdash;a fitting end for one who came here in search of death.</quote></p>
- <p>The skull retreats into the mist, and a deathly silence fills the pit. A semicircular shadow forms on the wall ahead; it grows larger and darker until it resembles the mouth of a cave or tunnel. Suddenly a gust of chill air whistles from out of this darkness, and you realize that you are staring at the entrance to the maze.</p>
- <p><quote>Enter!</quote> orders the voice. <quote>Enter or die where you stand!</quote> It is no idle threat. A crossbow bolt slams into the sand barely inches from your feet, and the click of a steel drawstring warns that another could follow if you disobey the command. Reluctantly, you step forward and enter the Maze of Zahda.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mustering all your reserves of strength, you spring along the passage, spurred on by the sound of gnashing fangs. There is a dead end ahead, but a passage leads off to the right. You turn the corner as fast as you can, scraping the wall painfully with your shoulder as you fight to keep on your feet, but you are soon forced to a halt&emdash;the passage is blocked. Glinting in the dim light is a cluster of huge bubbles, floating languidly up and down between the misty ceiling and the polished floor. A slight breeze lifts them and they bounce towards you.</p>
- <p>A snarl and the scraping of claws on stone tell you that the wolf is at the corner.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you wish to push through the bubbles and continue along the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to stand and fight the wolf, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you decide to cut your way through the bubbles with your sword, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Vivid green flashes of forked lightning and the rumble of distant thunder add menace to the towers and sheer stone walls of Kazan-Oud. Many of the roofs and turrets are in ruin; their twisted beams and floors lay open to the sky, giving the fortress a burnt-out and deserted appearance.</p>
- <p>As you approach the tiny bay, which is tucked inside the shelter of a horseshoe reef of jagged black rocks, your eye is caught by the glow of tiny red lights, moving in the shadows at the base of the fortress wall. You notice a dry hollow among a group of rocks close to the shore that offers an ideal hiding place for your little boat. Silently, you disembark and drag the coracle up the beach towards the rocks. Seconds later you are halted dead in your tracks by the sound of muffled squealing. Sweat breaks out on your brow when a flash of lightning reveals scores of small red eyes close to the sand. A seething flood of rats, each as large as a puppy but gaunt and half-starved, is scurrying down the beach towards you like a torrent of black water.</p>
- <p>With pounding heart, you search for some means of escape from this ravenous horde of squealing, snapping rodents.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to climb over the rocks and escape across a deserted beach, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to drag your little boat back into the lake and paddle away from the bay, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you prefer to stand and fight the onrushing flood of giant rats, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light flares brightly in the moist gloom of the passage. A cavern lies immediately ahead, its high-arched roof a mass of dripping stalactites, hanging like thick spears of pearly white stone. Cautiously you step across the cavern floor, your skin prickling, as peculiar sounds emanate from the shadows.</p>
- <p>You wind your way through a labyrinth of tunnels, slipping on moss-covered rocks, grazing your head on low ceilings and scrambling up and down steep ridges and rockfalls until you arrive at a smooth-walled chamber carved with precision from the hard black rock. A staircase ascends through an archway to your left, and directly ahead stands a massive stone door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to examine the stone door, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow him to the end of the cell block corridor, the angry shouts of Zahda's gaolers ringing in your ears. A staircase looms ahead, descending to a lower level, but it is guarded by a grim-faced Beastman, armed with an axe. Double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by your enemy during this combat, for the Beastman is also being attacked by your new-found partner.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Beastman Gaoler</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible moan shakes the tunnel as your blows sever a finger from the monstrous hand. The others instantly spring open, dropping Tavig, bloodied and dishevelled, in a heap on the gore-stained floor. As the hand withdraws into the gloom, you kneel by Tavig's side and try to aid him as best you can. His injuries are severe; he is on the very brink of death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The air becomes thinner, and slowly, painfully, you weaken and collapse. Consciousness soon fades and you are spared the agonies of death by suffocation.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily, you cross the cracked, flagstoned floor of the Great Hall, your muscles and nerves tensed for the sounds of danger. The constant sound of dripping water and the howl of the storm add to the utter desolation of the chamber. A thorny jungle of briars climbs the walls with greedy claws, coiling around the rotten frames of paintings and weaving through damp and mouldering tapestries.</p>
- <p>Suspended above the fireplace is a great Anarian broadsword, its pitted steel blade pointing to one side. Your eyes travel along the blade to the shadows of the fireplace, and you notice something lying in the grate. Moving nearer, you see that it is the body of a dead man. Behind it is a panel, wedged open by the corpse, and, peering into the gloomy opening, you can just make out some stairs disappearing down into the darkness.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The body of a dead man is lying in the fireplace; behind<br/>him, a panel is wedged open and you can just make out<br/>some stairs disappearing into the darkness</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="676"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="676"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to examine the dead body, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to explore the secret passage, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pull yourself on to the cold iron platform, you see the maze spread out below you like the surface of a massive brain, each chamber a cell populated with perils created by the devilish imagination of Lord Zahda. A criss-cross of interconnecting walkways is suspended above the maze by gigantic chains that vanish into blackness. You hurry along the iron path towards a staircase that descends to an arch beyond the boundary wall of the maze. As you run through it, you can hear an alarm bell echoing in the vastness above: your escape has not gone unnoticed.</p>
- <p>A vaulted corridor lies beyond the arch, which leads to a junction with two exits.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to take the passage to your right, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you wish to take the passage to your left, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures are so engrossed in their discussion that they do not notice you enter the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to attack them with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow severs the Lekhor's head, sending it spinning into the cold black waters below. A wave of shock ripples through its body, and suddenly you are falling, its limp torso still gripped between your feet. Seconds later you hit the lake with a loud splash and sink like a stone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The relentless attack begins to take its toll (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You know that you cannot resist this psychic battering for much longer&emdash;you must do something to stop it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it at the plinth, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to run forward and physically attack the hand, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to run between the two green pillars and escape into the passage beyond, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few hundred yards, the passage turns abruptly to the right. Glinting in the dim light is a cluster of huge bubbles floating languidly up and down in the passage ahead. A slight breeze lifts them, and slowly they bounce towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to push your way past them and continue on your way along the passage, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have a sword and wish to strike out at them, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you decide to return to the vault and take the right tunnel, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior leaps to safety as you draw your weapon and face the snarling enemy. <quote>Brave fool!</quote> you hear him cry, his footfalls fading into the tunnel.</p>
- <p>Snickering with delight, like cruel and hungry predators that have trapped themselves a feast, the creatures slink forward. Talons spring from the tips of their webbed fingers, and their eyes blaze with wild red fire as they get ready to pounce.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dhax</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>With a trap at your back, you cannot evade combat and must fight these creatures to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight and claw your way up the crowded staircase and run headlong into the prison complex. Chunks of stone and iron drop from the ceiling as wave upon wave of explosions rock the foundation of the fortress. You cross the complex, cutting down anything that impedes your path, and race along the one corridor that has not been blocked by a rockfall or chasm.</p>
- <p>You are halfway up a winding staircase, when there is an enormous groan, followed by a cracking of iron. The creatures around you shriek in terror, but their voices are lost as the entire stairway collapses and falls, crumbling and roaring, into a hollow, lava-filled chasm five hundred feet below.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the ruins of Kazan-Oud.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect301-1-foot" idref="sect301-1">
- <p>If you still have any arrows in your Quiver, they have fallen out in your fall, and you must erase them from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (cf. <a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The snake reveals its fangs. Like great curved broadswords glistening with venom, they shine coldly in the light that pours down through the grating high above. You grip your weapon, bracing your back against the wet stone wall and waiting for the right moment to strike. As the monstrous head sways awkwardly from side to side, you catch sight of a small tunnel cut out of far wall, which was previously hidden from view by the snake and its nest. Your spirits are raised by the possibility of escaping from this nightmare, but first you must fight this hideous creature.<a id="sect301-1" idref="sect301-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose during this combat due to the venomous bite of the monster.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Hactaraton</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect91">After four rounds of combat you can attempt to evade the creature by crawling into the tunnel; <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you draw level with the plinth, the fingers on the hand begin to move. They rise and fall, drumming a slow and clumsy rhythm on the granite surface. The dull thudding causes your head to ache, and the pain increases with every tap of the swollen black fingers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The partly submerged pathway takes you to the fissure. Here, the rustle and slither of unseen things echoes from the inky darkness. Suddenly, the shadow of something round and black breaks through the surface of the lake and a hideous gurgling cry splits the night. It flies straight towards you and you quickly take cover inside the narrow fissure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The footsteps halt but a piercing crack, like that of a whip, breaks the silence. You cry out in pained surprise as an angry red weal opens from your temple to your chin (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You sense his presence, but you cannot see the enemy who dealt you this wound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to try to defend yourself against your invisible attacker, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you choose to run back along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you decide to risk jumping into the pit, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The designs are woven from pure gold and silver, studded with gems and semi-precious stones. You marvel at the craftsmanship and beauty of these tapestries&emdash;they must be worth many thousands of crowns. One gem in particular catches your eye&emdash;a large Diamond. Unable to resist the temptation, you prise it from the cloth and drop it into your pocket (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), before leaving the hall by the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect306-1-foot" idref="sect306-1">
- <p>To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="toc">Table of Contents</a> and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer, a footnote in that section will tell you so.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Discipline, you focus your attention on the strange triangular plaque fixed to the bars and, gradually, its purpose becomes clear. By finding the total number of triangles contained in the design and turning the pointer to the same number on the dial before pulling the lever, you will ensure that the portcullis opens safely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn back to 11</link-text> and study the design. When you think you have the answer, turn to the entry that bears the same number.<a id="sect306-1" idref="sect306-1-foot" class="footnote"/></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the ceiling of mist hides a powerful energy field. Touching such a force barrier, especially when immersed in water, could prove fatal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you decide to touch the mist in spite of the danger, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you decide to dive down and examine the statue, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few feet along the tunnel, you notice an irregular square in the floor ahead&emdash;the tell-tale sign of a trap. It poses no problem to a warrior of your prowess, and you clear it with one bound. Further on, you reach a spiral staircase that leads down to a rough-walled cavern. At the bottom of the staircase two tunnels lead away, one to the north and one to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to enter the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to enter the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The descent is slow and arduous. Much of the staircase has been carried away by falling stonework from the battlements, and you have to contend with a rain of molten ash and pumice that is erupting from the core of the keep. You take shelter where you can, but you dare not linger too long in any one place for fear of being caught in a fissure or a rock slide.</p>
- <p>By the time you reach the beach, your cloak and hood are smouldering and the soles of your boots have nearly melted. Many of the creatures of Kazan-Oud have escaped before you and they crowd the beach, clawing and biting each other in a frenzy of terror. The lake is choked with their dead, and the black sand is barely visible beneath the carpet of carcasses. You fend off the crazed beasts as best you can, but to stay on the beach would be suicidal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you choose to climb up the rocks and dive into the lake, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you decide to fight your way down to the old stone jetty, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tie a loop in one end of the rope and scan the opposite side for a secure target. A spur of stone near the centre of the shattered staircase looks promising, and you aim for that. On your second attempt the rope finds its mark and tightens around the stone. You waste no time crossing the gap, and within minutes, you are safely across and climbing the few remaining stairs to the breached fortress wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are quick to regain your balance and press on regardless of your stinging wounds (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Once more the whip cracks, but you are now out of range of its cruel bite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a faint click, and the panel slides open to reveal a set of steps leading down to a sturdy wooden door, reinforced with bands of studded iron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to investigate further, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you choose not to enter, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lack of oxygen is making you light-headed (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but you try to ignore the pain and continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If it is 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinking away the tears, you concentrate all of your Discipline and skill on finding a target in the billowing smoke. A shadow to your left betrays a creature that is crawling along the walkway on its belly. You lower your bow and fire. An instant later, a howl of rage and pain confirms a hit. The scream quickly fades, as the creature rolls over and falls to its doom.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a shape hurtles out of the smoke, clawing and biting savagely at your face and arms. You drop your bow and unsheathe a weapon just in time to receive its attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dhax</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect277">You may evade combat at any time by running into the archway opposite; <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The entire corridor shakes with the violence of a series of eruptions that tears rock and iron with ease. All around you Zahda's loathsome minions run in utter panic, their voices rising to a cacophony of terror as frantically they seek to escape from Kazan-Oud.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The entire corridor shakes with the violence of a series<br/>of eruptions that tears rock and iron with ease</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="679"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="679"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Jets of flaming gas erupt from splits in the floor as you sprint, crawl, climb and jump over the obstacles hurled in your path by the dying fortress. Creatures from the maze now stalk these levels, adding to the carnage and panic as they consume the unfortunates who cross their path.</p>
- <p>You cover a mile of broken passage before you find an undamaged staircase. It winds upwards into the dust-choked darkness, and, as you pound its rubble-strewn steps, your feet are licked by flames. Below, the screams are drowned by the deafening roar of fire and explosion; above, there is nothing but darkness.</p>
- <p>You are nearing the point of collapse when suddenly you emerge from the blackness into the glare of daylight. You stagger and fall, momentarily blinded. As your eyes gradually become accustomed to the light, you cast your gaze over the broken battlements of the castle keep and see the glimmering waters Lake Khor far below.</p>
- <p>The walls of the fortress are crumbling rapidly, and the ground is alive with constant vibration. You run headlong through the ruined main gate as bolts of lightning are drawn from the sky by the dying power of Kazan-Oud. At the top of a ruined staircase, you stare down at the shore far below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to descend the steps to the old jetty, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you choose to make your way to the beach, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you decide to dive from the cliff into the water far below, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with four armoured Beastmen. They attack simultaneously, and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zahda Beastmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If combat lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Filling your hand with the hilt of the sun-sword, you unsheathe its golden blade and sever the tendril with one stroke. But instead of blood, or what would pass for blood in the body of this ghastly creature, a flame bursts into life like a spluttering fuse. The brain ceases to move, hovering motionless above the sand, as the spitting flame burns fiercely along its thin tube of sundered flesh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cloying smell of damp and decay grows steadily stronger, and you are forced to cover your nose with your cloak to block out the sickly stench. The tunnel twists to the right, and you notice a small iron door set into the wall ahead and a narrow staircase descending into the gloom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to investigate the door, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you decide to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Taking up a position to one side of the tunnel, you press yourself flat against the wall and wait for the best moment to strike. Four warriors, dark and grim, march into the hall in single file. At first sight you mistake them for Drakkarim, for their black armour and skull-like helmets are identical to those worn by the evil human warriors who serve the Darklords of Helgedad. As you launch your attack, you see their features and realize that they cannot possibly be human. Great sloping shoulders support their unnaturally long arms; yellow-clawed hairy hands grip axes and spears of rough-wrought iron; and behind them swing long, tufted tails, like those of lions.</p>
- <p>Your first blow shears through the backplate of the last warrior in the line, causing him to howl like a demon and collapse in a crumpled heap at your feet. The others spin to face you, their reactions battle-swift, their weapons raised to counter your threat. The leader throws open his visor to reveal a boar-like snout and tusks. He bellows a fearsome growl and stabs at you with his spear. The others echo his cry and close around you. You cannot evade combat and must fight all three as one enemy.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zahda Beastmen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race back towards the corner but a slab of smooth stone is rumbling into view, sealing off the only exit. You are forced to stop and face the fiery attacker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nothing seems to happen. The buttons remain depressed and the concealed door remains closed. You are about to step away from the sarcophagus when there is a faint click and the panel slides open. You chance a cautious glance inside and see a set of steps leading down to a stout wooden door, its gnarled timber studded and reinforced with bands of iron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to enter the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you choose not to enter, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the passage for several minutes until it turns sharply to the left. Cautiously you peer around the corner, your basic Kai instincts alerting you to a potential threat. Peering down, you see a beam of light shining from one side of the corridor to the other. The passage ahead looks no different to those in the rest of the maze, but you feel sure that it contains a deadly trap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to step over the beam of light and continue along the passage, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose to walk through the beam, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thread your way through a network of empty passages and chambers. Twice you are forced to hide when groups of black-armoured warriors appear unexpectedly. At first you think that they are Drakkarim, evil humans who serve the Darklords of Helgedad, but their unnaturally long arms and the tails that swing behind them soon dispel that fear, replacing it with a far greater one.</p>
- <p>At the bottom of a narrow winding stairway, you arrive at a small but opulently furnished chamber, its walls hung with beautiful tapestries, undamaged by the damp that pervades the upper levels of the fortress. It looks as if you have reached a dead end, and you are about to turn back when you notice a small door tucked away in one corner of the room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to open the door, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you decide to take a closer look at the tapestries, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heat is unbearable (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). In order to keep your boots from catching fire, and in the hope of reaching a cooler section of the tube, you force yourself to run deeper into the oven-like tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24"><link-text>Turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike the seething water with a mighty splash and sink like a stone. The sharp tang of the lake fills your mouth, and its icy-cold embrace numbs your muscles. Your first impulse on hitting the water is to lash out with your arms and swim, but you are hampered by a mass of plant life that coils around your flailing limbs. Desperate for air, you hack blindly at the weeds that now threaten to drag you to a watery grave.</p>
- <p>Fight the combat as normal. However, due to your lack of air, you must automatically deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points for every round that you fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Black Lakeweed</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you survive the struggle, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make it through the gap with less than an inch to spare. With your stomach churning, you drag yourself to your feet and retrace your steps along the murky tunnel. The familiar red glow of the tunnel you passed earlier appears once more in the gloom ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you now choose to explore this tunnel, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to go back to the rough-walled cavern and take the west tunnel instead, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gulping a lungful of air, you dive below the water and focus your Magnakai Discipline on the lock, willing it to open. It is a severe test of your skill, made all the more difficult by the lack of air.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the rank of Primate, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If your total is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The slinking creatures fill the narrow walkway, offering themselves as easy targets to your bow. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ponder the problem for several minutes, using your natural Kai instincts to the full as you try to discover which of the numbers on the dial will open the portcullis. The image of four numbers&emdash;three, nine, thirteen, and thirty-three&emdash;fill your mind, but try as you might, you cannot determine which of them is correct.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to turn the pointer to number three before pulling the lever, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to turn the pointer to number nine, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to turn the pointer to number thirteen, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to turn the pointer to number thirty-three, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Pathsmanship skill reveals that the passage to your left leads to a complex of prison cells; the passage to your right leads to a guard room and torture chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you decide to take the left passage, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you choose the right passage, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your death is mercifully swift. As the mouth of the monster closes around your upper body, you are paralysed by corrosive saliva and so spared the agony of being eaten alive.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap forward and strike left and right, ripping through the startled guards and meeting little resistance. Two fall and a third steps forward, his sword yet to clear his scabbard. You hit him below the chin and see his beast-like eyes roll up in sudden agony as blood gushes from under his helmet. As he sinks, gurgling, to his knees, you see the fourth warrior disappearing down the corridor, his cries of alarm reverberating along the passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you wish to run after him, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you decide to enter the chamber and attempt to escape along the opposite corridor, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you place the key into the tiny keyhole, you feel your fingers tingle. There is a soft noise like rushing wind, then, suddenly, the key vanishes from your grip (erase this Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). Soundlessly, the great door swings open to reveal a plain stone room. You enter and, as the door closes, you notice a coiled snake etched deep into its surface.</p>
- <p>Carved in the centre of its scaly coils is the number <strong>123</strong>. Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;it may be of use to you at a later stage of your adventure.</p>
- <p>Beside the closed door, hanging in a rack suspended from the ceiling, are a Spear and a Quarterstaff. Both weapons are in remarkably fine condition despite the warm, damp air. At the other side of the room, two torchlit tunnels descend to the north and the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to enter the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to enter the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Good!</quote> booms the voice of Zahda as you enter the passage; <quote>the cowards of Elzian have at last sent a warrior worthy of my maze.</quote></p>
- <p>The words conjure up a picture of Lord Zahda seated on his golden throne, with the object of your quest, the Lorestone of Herdos, suspended above it. The image strengthens your resolve to survive this accursed maze and escape. If you can then find your way back to Zahda's throne-hall, the success of your quest will be within your grasp.</p>
- <p>You walk along the passage, your mind filled with the possible problems and perils you might have to overcome. One such problem looms into view as the passage takes a sharp turn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A rickety, hunchbacked creature, swathed in a hooded robe, approaches the platform on which you stand manacled to the wall. With an efficiency born of practice, quickly he strips you of all your weapons and hands them to an ugly-faced dwarf, hovering at his side. The dwarf looks at the Sommerswerd with an appraising eye, then raises it above his head to show it to his master. Before he can speak, there is a sudden roar, as a bolt of golden energy engulfs the hilt. Screaming with pain, the dwarf drops the sword and cradles his smoking hand, his fingers now missing half their length. You are unable to hide your smile and are quickly punished for your insolence. The robed creature strikes you across the face, gashing your cheek with its rough, warty fist (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p><quote>Take him to the maze,</quote> commands white-haired Lord Zahda, <quote>and leave the sword for me.</quote></p>
- <p>The Sommerswerd rises into the air and floats towards the golden throne on a cushion of blue mist. As you are dragged from the hall in chains, you are taunted by Zahda's cruel laugh and the fear that your quest is now doomed to failure.</p>
- <p>Erase all weapons and weapon-like Special Items from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and make a note of them on a separate piece of paper in case you should rediscover them at a later stage of your adventure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">Now <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A new sound is added to the terrible squeals of the hungry rats: the sound of splintering wood. In less than a minute, your small boat is completely devoured, leaving no trace of its ever having existed. The jagged rocks cut into your hands and knees, but you are oblivious to the pain as you clamber across them to the beach beyond. You set off at a run, but the fine, black sand closes around your ankles, and your legs ache violently with every desperate step.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="215" height="165" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="215" height="165" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A glance over your shoulder warns you that the pack are gaining ground rapidly; they will be on you before you reach the rocky base of Kazan-Oud. Then suddenly the squealing stops; the black tide has halted at the edge of the beach. Their white teeth snap on empty air, and hungry eyes watch your every movement, but every single one of them is rooted to the rocks.</p>
- <p>As you turn to make your escape, you wonder why the rats no longer pursue you. Less than ten feet ahead lies the horrific answer to your question.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wall is descending fast; there is very little space left through which to escape.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, you may add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Discipline, heightened by the discovery of the Lorestone of Herdos, screams a warning that the stairs to the cell complex are doomed to disaster. Your senses tell you that by staying on this level and following the corridor to the far side of the subterranean lair, you will be sure of finding a safe route up to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wisps of smoke are beginning to rise from the dead bodies; suddenly one bursts into flames. Quickly you leap across the slab, away from the heat and choking black fumes, as the others are swallowed by a fire that crackles and spits like an angry demon.</p>
- <p>Further along the tunnel, you see the warrior. He is crouching on his heels, his hands resting on the hilt of his sword. A smile spreads across his unshaven face as he sees your approach. <quote>You're brave, I'll grant you that. There's none I know who'd stand against three hungry Dhax.</quote> He jumps to his feet, sheathes his sword and offers his hand in friendship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell him of your quest and the help the Elder Magi have given to enable you to enter Kazan-Oud. When you recount your air voyage to Herdos aboard Lord Paido's skyship, you notice a tear trickle from the blind man's eye. <quote>My name is Kasin,</quote> he says, sorrowfully. <quote>Lord Paido is my brother.</quote></p>
- <p>Pity fills your heart for this unfortunate warrior, for you know that he is doomed to die. Blindness occurs in the final stage of takadea, the disease that is ravaging his body. <quote>I am beyond help,</quote> he says, his face lined with pain, <quote>but I can and will help your quest, Kai Lord. Listen to me carefully. There are stairs at the end of the corridor that lead down to the throne-hall of Zahda. At the entrance to the hall there is a tapestry behind which there is a secret passage. It leads to Zahda's throne. Above the throne is the Lorestone you seek, but beware. Zahda has coupled its power to a Doomstone from the realm of Naaros&emdash;Zahda draws all his power from this accursed gem. If you are to succeed, you must first destroy the gem or you will surely perish. Sadly I cannot help you escape from Kazan-Oud, for I myself was captured long before I reached the surface, but if you reach the beach, make your way to the old stone jetty. Beneath the steps is the place where I hid my boat.</quote></p>
- <p>He grips your hand in friendship, his face now calm and peaceful. <quote>When you return to Elzian, tell my brother that my death was not in vain. May the gods protect you, Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>The sound of approaching guards forces you to leave the cell. As you close the door, you promise that his bravery will live forever in the legends of the Vakeros&emdash;his warrior kin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blood of the dead wolf stains you from head to foot, filling your nose with an acrid smell. With sword in hand, you stare down at the carcass and shiver at the thought of how close you came to death. The dim light grows brighter, and for a moment you hear laughter, cold and distant, before the light fades to its usual murky glow, and you are surrounded by silence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sphere halts in mid-air less than ten feet from where you stand. It looks like a huge, black human brain studded with large, hairy warts. A whistle, soft but chilling, gradually rises in pitch until it fills your head with agonizing pain. Your fingers tremble and, as your weapon slips from your grasp, a slit opens in the side of the brain. It is a mouth, broad and puffy, with an upper lip that hangs over the lower jaw like milk boiling over the pan. A long tendril of flesh emerges from the mouth and snakes through the air towards your throat.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The sphere halts in mid-air: it looks like a huge,<br/>black human brain studded with large, hairy warts</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="682"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="682"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <choice idref="sect217">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chamber is well lit by a row of torches lining all four walls, and there is very little furniture to hide behind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hand strikes something invisible set close to the edge of the pit&emdash;the beginning of a magically hidden bridge. Your fingers tell you that it is a plank, for it feels very thin and narrow. Suddenly the footsteps halt. There is a piercing crack, like that of a whip, and an angry red weal opens across the back of your hand (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You sense his presence, but you cannot see the enemy who dealt you this wound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to step on to the invisible bridge, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to try to fight your unseen enemy, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior makes no attempt to parry your attack, and your blow rips deeply into his unguarded chest. He stares at you in disbelief as he clutches at his wound and drops heavily to his knees. <quote>Why?</quote> he croaks, as his eyelids flicker and close.</p>
- <p>A howl of maniacal glee arises from the black creatures. As the warrior falls into the smoky abyss, they slink towards you with long, loping strides.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you wish to stand and fight these creatures, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you decide to evade them by escaping into the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you tap the wall with the hilt of your weapon, praying for the dull, tell-tale thud of a thin or hollow partition through which you might effect an escape. The walls yield no such sound, but in the roof you discover an old trap-door hatch sealed off with bricks and mortar. The faint glimmer of light seeping through a hairline crack fills you with renewed hope.</p>
- <p>With a flurry of blows the mortar crumbles and the bricks split and fall. Without waiting for the dust to settle, you climb through the jagged hole and emerge into a hall that is filled with a damp and earthy smell. Two rows of great stone pillars support the roof and a huge, granite sarcophagus stands in the centre of the floor. From within a black tunnel to your right, you hear the clanking of armour and the sound of approaching footsteps.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to hide behind one of the pillars, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to leave the hall by a tunnel to your left, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to lie in ambush for whatever is approaching the hall, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch the whistle to your lips and blow. Instantly, the slimy creature rears up, its short rubbery legs scrabbling the air in agony as the ultra high-pitched sound destroys its sensitive nervous system.</p>
- <p>As it twists back on itself, its head disappears into the misty ceiling. There is an ear-splitting crack and blue lightning engulfs the creature, crackling snake-like around its neck, and filling the corridor with the stench of burning meat. The creature thrashes wildly for several minutes, and when its gruesome dance finally ends the canopy of mist is no longer there. In the darkness above, you see a walkway and an observation platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to climb the body of the dead worm and pull yourself on to the platform, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you prefer to climb over the carcass and continue along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly you arrive at another stone staircase. This one is intact, however, and ascends to a cave-like entrance in the sheer rock wall. You cannot follow the beach any further, for a salient of the wall blocks your way. Moreover, the weather is getting worse with every passing minute and you need to seek shelter from the coming storm.</p>
- <p>By the time you have climbed all the way to the cave, the storm has broken. As you stand in the entrance, the rain-filled wind lashes you mercilessly and the ground shudders with every clap of thunder. The faint green glow of the power-shield is the only source of light, and you enter cautiously. You are soon swallowed up by darkness and your progress becomes painfully slow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern or a Torch and Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you have none of these Items, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you step into the ruby corridor, the horseshoe arch turns completely opaque. You try to go back, but the milky-white barrier will not let you pass. Soon, the skull appears once more, but this time its message chills you to the core:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="225" height="210" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="225" height="210" />
- </illustration>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>The path you have chosen leads to the heart of the maze,
- <br />And there you are doomed to eke out your days.</quote>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>It is a prophecy that will be fulfilled. You have ventured too deep into Zahda's maze, and the exits are now closed off forever. It may interest you to learn that you survived at the core of the maze for three weeks, a feat that earned you the respect of Lord Zahda, but one that did not persuade him to spare you your life.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you have passed through the power-shield, you are greeted like a hero by a huge flotilla of fishing vessels and trading barges. An hour ago, upon seeing the eruption of Kazan-Oud, every boat in Herdos set sail for the shield, for the eruption signalled the end of the bane that had haunted Dessi for hundreds of years. Now they cheer the Sommlending warrior who has delivered them from Dessi's evil shadow. Eager hands pull you aboard Lord Ardan's caravel, and a fanfare salute is sounded by the trumpeters of his Vakeros guards.</p>
- <p><quote>We are forever in your debt, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Lord Ardan, as he shakes your hand warmly in gratitude and friendship. <quote>You have achieved what we feared to be impossible, and you live to tell the tale. Your bravery is an inspiration to us all.</quote> His words are reinforced by the delirious cheers of his people. He asks of your own quest, and, when you remove the Lorestone of Herdos from the pocket of your tattered and scorched tunic, his eyes widen with amazement.</p>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description><quote>We are forever in your debt, Lone Wolf,</quote> says<br/>Lord Ardan, as he shakes your hand warmly</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="772" height="623"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="772" height="623"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <p>He bows his head and says in a solemn and respectful voice, <quote>My lord, you stand upon the threshold of greatness. Your purpose and your destiny are known to the Elder Magi, for we have awaited your coming for many thousands of years. Our survival and the survival of all we cherish rests on the success of your Magnakai quest. The time has come, Lone Wolf, for you to learn our wisdom, for we are of the same blood, you and I, and our fate is bound together. We will prepare you for your next quest, for the Lorestone you must find next exists in the land that was once our home, in the temple that was once our most sacred place of worship, in the chamber where our master first appeared to us.</quote></p>
- <p>Your quest has succeeded, for the strength and wisdom of the Lorestone of Herdos is now a part of your body and spirit. But there is much for you to learn from the Elder Magi as they prepare you for the most challenging of the Magnakai quests you have yet to attempt, a quest that will take you deep into the hostile swamps of the Danarg, where the evil creatures of Agarash the Damned still thrive and dominate the land.</p>
- <p>If you have the courage of a true Kai Master, the secrets of the Elder Magi and the perils of the Danarg await you in Book 8 of the Lone Wolf series entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.08tjoh;">The Jungle of Horrors</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta>
- <title>The Magiocracy of Dessi</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="777" height="599" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="777" height="599" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta>
- <title>Action Chart</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="136" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="aclore.gif" width="385" height="199" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Combat Rules Summary</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta>
- <title>Combat Results Table</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta>
- <title>Random Number Table</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
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- <title>Errata</title>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
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- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta>
- <title>Errata List</title>
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- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced <quote>fulfill</quote> with <quote>fulfil</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Added a quotation mark to the beginning of the paragraph that starts <quote>You see before you Kazan-Oud.&ellips;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced both occurences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote> (see inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Replaced <quote>safe keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>. Capitalized the list of items rather than setting them in all capital letters. Replaced <quote>fireseeds</quote> with <quote>Fireseeds</quote>. Replaced <quote>(eg</quote> with <quote>(e.g.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a>) Added the title <quote>Primate</quote> to parallel later books.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>stormclouds</quote> with <quote>storm clouds</quote>, <quote>transluscent</quote> with <quote>translucent</quote>, <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>, <quote>Canal, and</quote> with <quote>Canal and</quote>, <quote>connversation and</quote> with <quote>conversation, and</quote>, <quote>powerful and</quote> with <quote>powerful, and</quote>, <quote>landing and, within</quote> with <quote>landing, and within</quote>, <quote>visible covering</quote> with <quote>visible, covering</quote>, <quote>shimmering green</quote> with <quote>shimmering, green</quote> and <quote>goodbyes and</quote> with <quote>goodbyes, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>, <quote>tap it and</quote> with <quote>tap it, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Replaced <quote>persistance</quote> with <quote>persistence</quote> with <quote>persistence</quote> and <quote>to bursting</quote> with <quote>to the bursting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>view and, for</quote> with <quote>view, and for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote> and <quote>Lipo</quote> with <quote>Lio</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>flatstones</quote> with <quote>flagstones</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>Sweetdreams</quote> with <quote>Sweet dreams</quote> and <quote>ugly bearded</quote> with <quote>ugly, bearded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>points), and</quote> with <quote>points) and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>fall but</quote> with <quote>fall, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>sibilent</quote> with <quote>sibilant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Replaced <quote>you but</quote> with <quote>you, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>fortess</quote> with <quote>fortress</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Replaced <quote>Weaponskill</quote> with <quote>Weaponmastery</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>intact and</quote> with <quote>intact, and</quote>, <quote>cry and</quote> with <quote>cry, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Replaced <quote>skull and</quote> with <quote>skull, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>warm and, as</quote> with <quote>warm, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>robes but, lying</quote> with <quote>robes, but lying</quote>, <quote>use and</quote> with <quote>use, and</quote>, <quote>chamber but, as</quote> with <quote>chamber, but as</quote> and <quote>helmet, and</quote> with <quote>helmet and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>Chart) but</quote> with <quote>Chart), but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>Magnakai rank</quote> and <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>head, and</quote> with <quote>head and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>staircase and</quote> with <quote>staircase, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>louder but</quote> with <quote>louder, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect41">41</a>) Replaced <quote>warm but</quote> with <quote>warm, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Moved the Invisibility/Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>tracks, and</quote> with <quote>tracks and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>yards, when</quote> with <quote>yards when</quote> and <quote>light and</quote> with <quote>light, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>) Replaced <quote>rock, when</quote> with <quote>rock when</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>beastmen</quote> with <quote>Beastmen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>deeper but</quote> with <quote>deeper, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Replaced <quote>points.)</quote> with <quote>points).</quote> and <quote>presence but</quote> with <quote>presence, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>arm and</quote> with <quote>arm, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Replaced <quote>chamber, but</quote> with <quote>chamber but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>deep and</quote> with <quote>deep, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) Replaced the second choice <quote>If you do not have a sword, you will have to abandon the door. Only the statue offers any hope of escape for you; <a idref="sect168">turn to 168</a>.</quote> with <quote>If you do not have a sword, <a idref="sect263">turn to 263</a>.</quote>. <a idref="sect168">Section 168</a> offers basically the same choice and is only forestalling the impending outcome in <a idref="sect263">Section 263</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>glowing sticky</quote> with <quote>glowing, sticky</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>) Replaced <quote>unremarkable but</quote> with <quote>unremarkable, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Replaced <quote>beach turn</quote> with <quote>beach, turn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>ceiling and</quote> with <quote>ceiling, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>tunic but</quote> with <quote>tunic, but</quote>. Also deleted the <quote>(lose 2 <typ class="attributes">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</quote> since Nexus is supposed to prevent or reduce <typ class="attributes">ENDURANCE</typ> loss - not induce it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>Kazan-Oud, they</quote> with <quote>Kazan-Oud; they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>dagger and</quote> with <quote>dagger, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>) Replaced <quote>scream but</quote> with <quote>scream, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote>crossbow but</quote> with <quote>crossbow, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>lake and</quote> with <quote>lake, and</quote>, <quote>wall and</quote> with <quote>wall, and</quote> and <quote>storm but</quote> with <quote>storm, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>legs the</quote> with <quote>legs, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Replaced <quote>feet and</quote> with <quote>feet, and</quote> and <quote>climb your</quote> with <quote>climb, your</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Moved the Nexus choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) Replaced <quote>subjectd</quote> with <quote>subjected</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>touch and</quote> with <quote>touch, and</quote>, <quote>that Magnakai</quote> with <quote>the Magnakai</quote>, <quote>Nexus, or</quote> with <quote>Nexus or</quote> and <quote>skill or</quote> with <quote>skill nor</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>side and</quote> with <quote>side, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>difficult that</quote> with <quote>difficult than</quote> and <quote>Sticky rope-like</quote> with <quote>Sticky, rope-like</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>) Replaced <quote>Then gurgling</quote> with <quote>Then, gurgling</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>mouth and</quote> with <quote>mouth, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>wall but</quote> with <quote>wall, but</quote>, <quote>ceiling and</quote> with <quote>ceiling, and</quote> and <quote>has, and</quote> with <quote>has and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>accord and</quote> with <quote>accord, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Replaced <quote>Elzian, he</quote> with <quote>Elzian,' he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Replaced <quote>hand but</quote> with <quote>hand, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>dim diffused</quote> with <quote>dim, diffused</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Replaced <quote>pieces, and</quote> with <quote>pieces and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>sleep and</quote> with <quote>sleep, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>) Replaced <quote>Locksmith's</quote> with <quote>Locksmiths'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>you and, as</quote> with <quote>you, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>sight but</quote> with <quote>sight, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>) Replaced <quote>atttack</quote> with <quote>attack</quote>. Moved the Nexus choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>rockwall</quote> with <quote>rock wall</quote>, <quote>itself everywhere</quote> with <quote>itself; everywhere</quote> and <quote>away and</quote> with <quote>away, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>strong iron-shod</quote> with <quote>strong, iron-shod</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Replaced <quote>wind, whistles</quote> with <quote>wind whistles</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>(ie,</quote> with <quote>(i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>) Replaced <quote>slimy worm-like</quote> with <quote>slimy, worm-like</quote> and <quote>minutes and, when</quote> with <quote>minutes, and when</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>choice, and</quote> with <quote>choice and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Replaced <quote>northlander</quote> with <quote>Northlander</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Replaced <quote>green forked</quote> with <quote>green, forked</quote>, <quote>Kazan-Oud and, for</quote> with <quote>Kazan-Oud, and for</quote>, <quote>lightning and</quote> with <quote>lightning, and</quote> and <quote>dock but</quote> with <quote>dock, but</quote>. Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>heard and</quote> with <quote>heard, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>undisturbed, not</quote> with <quote>undisturbed: not</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>) Replaced <quote>go but, as</quote> with <quote>go, but as</quote> and <quote>mace but</quote> with <quote>mace, but</quote>. Moved the Lore-circle of the Spirit choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>hole and</quote> with <quote>hole, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>) Replaced <quote>face, and</quote> with <quote>face and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>warm and</quote> with <quote>warm, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>) Replaced <quote>drawbolt</quote> with <quote>bolt</quote> and <quote>abyss and</quote> with <quote>abyss, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>with the</quote> with <quote>with, the</quote> and <quote>Nexus, and</quote> with <quote>Nexus and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>skins they</quote> with <quote>skins, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Replaced <quote>walkway and</quote> with <quote>walkway, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack and</quote> with <quote>backpack, and</quote> and <quote>boulder and</quote> with <quote>boulder, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>deserted and</quote> with <quote>deserted, and</quote> and <quote>beam but</quote> with <quote>beam, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>) Replaced <quote>laughter and</quote> with <quote>laughter, and</quote>, <quote>distance and</quote> with <quote>distance, and</quote>, <quote>fever but</quote> with <quote>fever, but</quote> and <quote>two and</quote> with <quote>two, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">171</a>) Replaced <quote>others and</quote> with <quote>others, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect173">173</a>) Replaced <quote>narrow and, as</quote> with <quote>narrow, and as</quote>. Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>staff but</quote> with <quote>staff, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>number have</quote> with <quote>number you have</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Replaced <quote>lake splitting</quote> with <quote>lake, splitting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect179">179</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote> and <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Replaced <quote>life and</quote> with <quote>life, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>run you</quote> with <quote>run, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>human but</quote> with <quote>human, but</quote>, <quote>spear</quote> with <quote>Spear</quote> and <quote>blow but</quote> with <quote>blow, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect188">188</a>) Replaced <quote>burst; your</quote> with <quote>burst, your</quote> and <quote>roof and</quote> with <quote>roof, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>) Replaced <quote>brighter and, for</quote> with <quote>brighter, and for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>you and, in</quote> with <quote>you, and in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>) Replaced <quote>lake and</quote> with <quote>lake, and</quote> and <quote>weapon, as</quote> with <quote>weapon as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>helmet, and</quote> with <quote>helmet and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>more you</quote> with <quote>more, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect199">199</a>) Replaced <quote>chain-mail</quote> with <quote>chainmail</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>crumbling and</quote> with <quote>crumbling, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>wall but</quote> with <quote>wall, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>crow and</quote> with <quote>crow, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>) Replaced <quote>rope and</quote> with <quote>rope, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>take but, as</quote> with <quote>take, but as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline and</quote> with <quote>Discipline, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Replaced <quote>comrade-in-arms, and</quote> with <quote>comrade-in-arms and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Replaced <quote>ears, and</quote> with <quote>ears and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>) Replaced <quote>feet and</quote> with <quote>feet, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>eyes and</quote> with <quote>eyes, and</quote>. Replaced <quote><a idref="sect164">Turn to 164</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect165">Turn to 165</a></quote>. All other paths leading to <a idref="sect164">Section 164</a> came through <a idref="sect277">Section 277</a> which involves falling into a pit. All paths leading to <a idref="sect165">Section 165</a> involved getting ensnared in a booby trap similar to the trap in <a idref="sect223">Section 223</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) Replaced <quote>Weaponskill</quote> with <quote>Weaponmastery</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Replaced <quote>blow and</quote> with <quote>blow, and</quote>. Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced <quote>darkness makes</quote> with <quote>darkness, make</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>fast but</quote> with <quote>fast, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>spear</quote> with <quote>Spear</quote> and <quote>broadsword</quote> with <quote>Broadsword</quote>. Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect238">238</a>) Capitalized the list rather than setting them in all capital letters.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>earth and instinctively,</quote> with <quote>earth, and instinctively</quote>. Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>flood-next</quote> with <quote>flood - next</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) Replaced <quote>eyes and</quote> with <quote>eyes, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>staircase, and</quote> with <quote>staircase and</quote>. Moved the Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>hands and</quote> with <quote>hands, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>Herdos and</quote> with <quote>Herdos, and</quote> and <quote>level, and</quote> with <quote>level and</quote>. Moved the Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) Replaced <quote>now and</quote> with <quote>now, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>trunk and, after</quote> with <quote>trunk, and after</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>spine and, to</quote> with <quote>spine, and to</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced <quote>advance but</quote> with <quote>advance, but</quote>, <quote>darkness and</quote> with <quote>darkness, and</quote> and <quote><a idref="sect186">turn to 186</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect289">turn to 289</a></quote>. Note that we chose <a idref="sect289">Section 289</a> instead of <a idref="sect49">Section 49</a> as noted in <cite>Lone Wolf Club Summer Special 1987</cite> newsletter.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>decay and, to</quote> with <quote>decay, and to</quote> and <quote>Items</quote> with <quote>items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>deserted but</quote> with <quote>deserted, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Replaced <quote>locked but</quote> with <quote>locked, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>sand and</quote> with <quote>sand, and</quote>, <quote>Psi-surge, and</quote> with <quote>Psi-surge and</quote> and <quote>skill, or</quote> with <quote>skill or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Replaced <quote>rests, and</quote> with <quote>rests and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>heavy and</quote> with <quote>heavy, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) Replaced <quote>statue and</quote> with <quote>statue, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>end and</quote> with <quote>end, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect273">273</a>) Replaced <quote>power-staves and</quote> with <quote>power-staves, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote><a idref="sect173">turn to 173</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect273">turn to 273</a></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>, <quote>mist and</quote> with <quote>mist, and</quote>, <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote>, and <quote>darkness and</quote> with <quote>darkness, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) Replaced <quote>ahead but</quote> with <quote>ahead, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>) Replaced <quote>combat for</quote> with <quote>combat, for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Replaced <quote>storm adds to</quote> with <quote>storm add to</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>body and</quote> with <quote>body, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>them and</quote> with <quote>them, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>fingers and</quote> with <quote>fingers, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>terror but</quote> with <quote>terror, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>presence but</quote> with <quote>presence, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>prowess and</quote> with <quote>prowess, and</quote>. Moved the Nexus choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced <quote>can but</quote> with <quote>can, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>cracks but</quote> with <quote>cracks, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>) Replaced <quote>click and</quote> with <quote>click, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>) Deleted the instruction to choose an unused random number.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>rapidly and</quote> with <quote>rapidly, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>simultaneously and</quote> with <quote>simultaneously, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>right and</quote> with <quote>right, and</quote> and <quote>ahead, and</quote> with <quote>ahead and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>maze but</quote> with <quote>maze, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>end and</quote> with <quote>end, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>mouth and</quote> with <quote>mouth, and</quote>, <quote>mind but, try</quote> with <quote>mind, but try</quote> and <quote>glow and</quote> with <quote>glow, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>Weaponskill</quote> with <quote>Weaponmastery</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>hunch-backed</quote> with <quote>hunchbacked</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>knees but</quote> with <quote>knees, but</quote> and <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Replaced <quote>brighter and</quote> with <quote>brighter, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>presence but</quote> with <quote>presence, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Replaced <quote>sound but</quote> with <quote>sound, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>light and</quote> with <quote>light, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) Replaced <quote>corridor the</quote> with <quote>corridor, the</quote>, <quote>back but</quote> with <quote>back, but</quote> and <quote>maze and</quote> with <quote>maze, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>trumpeteers</quote> with <quote>trumpeters</quote>, <quote>caravel and</quote> with <quote>caravel, and</quote> and <quote>impossible and</quote> with <quote>impossible, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta>
- <title>Footnotes</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) This section is the correct answer to the dial problem from <a idref="sect306">section 306</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) This section is the correct answer to the Zakhan's riddle from <a idref="sect100">section 100</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) According to later books (cf. <cite><a href="&link.10tdot;">The Dungeons of Torgar</a></cite> Section 304), you would also be unable to use any two-handed weapon (i.e. Broadsword, Spear, Quarterstaff) in this combat.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="toc">Table of Contents</a> and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer to the Zakhan's riddle, a footnote in that section will tell you so.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) If you have any arrows in your Quiver, they have fallen out in your fall, and you must erase them from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (cf. <a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) You must win the fight before turning to either section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) You may not carry the Helmet at the same time as the Silver Helmet, if you have it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>) You must reduce the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to zero before turning to either section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>) If you still have any arrows in your Quiver, they have fallen out in your fall, and you must erase them from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (cf. <a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="toc">Table of Contents</a> and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer, a footnote in that section will tell you so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta>
- <title>Table of Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta>
- <title>Primary Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect13">Section 13</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect27">Section 27</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect45">Section 45</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect63">Section 63</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect78">Section 78</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect100">Section 100</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect110">Section 110</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect142">Section 142</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect164">Section 164</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect165">Section 165</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect198">Section 198</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect203">Section 203</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect221">Section 221</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect249">Section 249</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect265">Section 265</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect280">Section 280</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect293">Section 293</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect315">Section 315</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect342">Section 342</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Magiocracy of Dessi</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta>
- <title>Secondary Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect3">Section 3</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect11">Section 11</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect127">Section 127</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect131">Section 131</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect145">Section 145</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect178">Section 178</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect220">Section 220</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect336">Section 336</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta>
- <title>Project Aon License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta>
- <title>0. Preamble</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta>
- <title>1. Definitions</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta>
- <title>1.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta>
- <title>1.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta>
- <title>1.2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta>
- <title>1.3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta>
- <title>1.4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>
- <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li>
- <cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta>
- <title>1.5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta>
- <title>1.6</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta>
- <title>1.7</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta>
- <title>2. Terms of Distribution</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta>
- <title>2.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta>
- <title>2.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta>
- <title>2.2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta>
- <title>2.3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta>
- <title>2.4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta>
- <title>2.5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta>
- <title>3. Termination of the License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta>
- <title>3.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta>
- <title>3.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta>
- <title>4. Jurisdiction</title>
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- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta>
- <title>4.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta>
- <title>5. Revision of the License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta>
- <title>5.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta>
- <title>6. NO WARRANTY</title>
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- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta>
- <title>6.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta>
- <title>6.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
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- </data>
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- </data>
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-<gamebook xml:lang="en-UK" version="0.11">
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-<!--
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-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.6 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
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-//////////////////////////
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-<!--
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-
-<meta>
- <title>The Jungle of Horrors</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Gary Chalk</strong>, the illustrator of the early Lone Wolf series, was born in 1952, grew up in Hertfordshire, England. Being interested in history, he began playing war games at the age of fifteen. When he graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in design, Gary spent three years training in a studio before becoming a teacher in art and design.</p>
- <p>Gary was working as a children's book illustrator when he became involved in adventure gaming, an interest which eventually led to the creation of several successful games. He is the inventor/illustrator of some of Britain's biggest-selling fantasy games including Cry Havoc, Starship Captain and Battlecars (co-designed with Ian Livingstone). He is also known for his work on the very successful game, Talisman.</p>
- <p>Gary was working at Games Workshop when Joe Dever asked him to illustrate some of his manuscript of Flight from the Dark. The two teamed up after that and, they continued to work together until the eighth book in the series, <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>.</p>
- <p>Gary has also drawn the illustrations in <cite>Redwall</cite> and related books, <cite>The Prince of Shadows</cite> gamebook series, and several books which he also authored. Gary continues to enjoy war gaming and works as an illustrator and model maker. He maintains a <a href="&link.gary.chalk.website;">website</a> with examples of his work.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>4</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf. Sworn to avenge your forefathers, the Kai Lords, you must now venture into the dreaded jungle-swamps of the Danarg.</p>
- <p>Guided by Lord Paido, warrior-magician of Dessi, you begin your trek across the violent and war-torn lands of Talestria on your secret mission to capture the prized Lorestone of Ohrido.</p>
- <p>You must survive in fearsome battle the assassins of Gnaag, the armies of the dreaded Warlord Zegron and the chaos-creatures of Agarash the Damned.</p>
- <p>But nothing must stop you now, for if you fail the Lorestone of Ohrido will be lost forever and vengeance will escape your grasp.&ellips;</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Gary Chalk.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Gary Chalk.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta/>
- <data/>
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Ros</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Paul Haskell<br/>Simon Osborne</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)<br />Michael Hahn (map)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne (front matter, Sections 1&endash;70 and 106&endash;140)<br />Matthew Reynolds (front matter, Sections 71&endash;105 and 141&endash;280 )<br />Vito Trifilo (Sections 281&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br />Matthew Reynolds<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Boris Basic<br />Erik Forsell</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies, the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Many centuries have passed since Sun Eagle, the first of your kind, established the Order of the Kai. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he completed a perilous quest to find seven crystals of power, known as the Lorestones of Nyxator. On discovering them he unlocked a wisdom and strength that lay within both the Lorestones and himself. He recorded the nature of his discoveries and experiences in a great tome entitled The Book of the Magnakai. You have discovered this lost Kai treasure and have given a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. However, your diligent study of this ancient book has enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. To fulfil your pledge you must complete the quest first undertaken by Sun Eagle over one thousand years ago and find the Lorestones of Nyxator. By doing so, you, too, will acquire the power and wisdom of the Magnakai, which is held within the Lorestones' crystal forms.</p>
- <p>Already your quest has taken you far from your northern homeland. Following in the footsteps of the first Kai Grand Master, you journeyed to Dessi and sought the help of the Elder Magi, the magicians who aided Sun Eagle on his quest long ago. There you learned that one of the seven Lorestones was still present in their land, hidden deep within the island stronghold known as Kazan-Oud&emdash;Castle Death. In the years since Sun Eagle first came to Dessi, the fortress of Kazan-Oud had become the abode of a great but evil sorcerer called Zahda. The Elder Magi, realizing the danger of Zahda's increasing power, attempted to destroy Kazan-Oud, but they failed. In desperation they constructed a prison of energy around the fortress to prevent Zahda from ever escaping. Steadily, however, his power grew and the people of Dessi lived in fear of the day when he would break free and wreak his vengeance upon them. When you resolved to enter Kazan-Oud to retrieve the Lorestone, the Elder Magi rejoiced, for the success of your quest would bring about the destruction of Zahda and put an end to the bane that had haunted Dessi for hundreds of years.</p>
- <p>You survived the perils of Castle Death and emerged triumphant, achieving that which the Elder Magi had believed to be impossible. During the victory celebrations held in your honour you learned that for centuries the Elder Magi had been expecting your coming. An ancient Dessi legend tells of the birth and rise to greatness of two <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>&emdash;<quote>sons of the sun</quote>. One was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, which means <quote>eagle</quote>; the other was called <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, which means <quote>wolf</quote>. A prophecy foretold that the <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign> would come from the north to seek the council of the Elder Magi in order that they might fulfil a great quest. Although separated by several centuries, they would share one spirit, one purpose and one destiny&emdash;to triumph over the champions of darkness in an age of great peril.</p>
- <p>At the Temple of Truth in Elzian, the magnificent capital city of Dessi, the Elder Magi prepared you for the next stage of the Magnakai quest. Lord Rimoah, the speaker of the High Council, tutored you in the ancient histories of Magnamund, and you received lessons in lore that you would have learned from the Kai Masters if only they had survived the attack by the murderous Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>The Lorestone you must find now lies hidden in a temple in the centre of a jungle-swamp known as the Danarg. In ancient times this huge area, once the crater of a massive volcano, was controlled by a powerful lord of evil called Agarash the Damned. The Elder Magi defeated him in a war that lasted one thousand years and, in the wake of his destruction, they turned the Danarg crater into a rich and fertile paradise, the perfect setting for their most sacred place of worship&emdash;the Temple of Ohrido. The Danarg flourished until a great plague befell the Elder Magi and decimated their race. They were forced to abandon the Danarg and seek refuge in Dessi. Slowly the Danarg was consumed by a creeping mire, which swallowed or poisoned all healthy forms of life. The crater became a sanctuary for a host of evil creatures who thrived in the fetid waters and fought for control of the treacherous shifting mud flats. Many came from the barren hills of Ogia, but many more awoke from lairs deep beneath the crater where they had lain dormant since the defeat of their master, Agarash the Damned, eight thousand years ago.</p>
- <p>Now the time for study has passed and the time for swift action has arrived. Grim news from the west prompts the Elder Magi to cease their counselling and arrange for your immediate passage to the Danarg. In the Darklord city of Helgedad a civil war has raged for five years following your defeat of Haakon, Archlord of the Black City. Now, a new lord sits upon the throne of Helgedad&emdash;Darklord Gnaag of Mozgôar.</p>
- <p><quote>The Darklords are united behind their new leader,</quote> reports Lord Rimoah solemnly to his fellow elders of the High Council. <quote>And they are hungry for conquest and revenge. Their strength grows with each passing day. We dare delay no longer.</quote></p>
- <p>Silently the members of the High Council rise from their seats and turn to face you. No sounds reach your ears, yet the words of their blessing fill your mind.</p>
- <p><quote>May the gods Ishir and Kai protect you on your journey into darkness, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Kor-Skarn</foreign>,</quote> they intone.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (I.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (I.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf Series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 8. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You may choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (books 6&endash;12).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="278" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with three weapons does not mean that you begin the adventure carrying any of them. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons during your adventure. For every Lone Wolf book that you complete in the Magnakai series, you may add an additional weapon to your list.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list that appears on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta><title>Animal Control</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta><title>Curing</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta><title>Invisibility</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the direction in which north lies.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta><title>Psi-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but −2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta><title>Psi-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta><title>Divination</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger, or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 8 of the Lone Wolf Magnakai series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.09tcof;">Book 9</a>. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be used in the next adventure, which is called <cite><a href="&link.09tcof;">The Cauldron of Fear</a></cite>.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Dessi on your journey to the Danarg, the Elder Magi give you a <a idref="map">map of the jungle-swamp</a> and its surrounding lands, and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed books 1&endash;7 of the Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. You can carry a maximum of only fifty Crowns, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>The Elder Magi offer you a choice of equipment to aid you on your perilous mission. You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two Weapons and eight Backpack Items.</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="311" height="77" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="311" height="77" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="156" height="39" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="156" height="39" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion Of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="laumspur.gif" width="156" height="66" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="laumspur.pdf" width="156" height="66" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Lantern (Backpack Items)</p></li>
- <li><p>Mace (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>3 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="meals.gif" width="156" height="39" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="meals.pdf" width="156" height="39" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Dagger (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>3 Fireseeds (Special Items) When thrown against a hard surface, these Fireseeds explode and burn fiercely.</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion Of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Lantern&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Fireseeds&emdash;carried in your pocket.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Any additional Special Items may be left for safekeeping at the Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve. Any additional Items may be left for safekeeping at the Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>No form of currency is used in the Danarg. However, you will be able to use Gold Crowns during your journey through the land of Talestria. There the unit of currency is the Lune, but Gold Crowns are readily accepted at an exchange rate of four Lune for every one Gold Crown.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as −3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta><title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will improve. If you have reached the rank of Primate (four skills) or Tutelary (five skills) you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="primate">
- <meta><title>Primate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline will be able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill will have the ability to delay the effect of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill will not be able to neutralize a poison, he will be able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill will have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tutelary">
- <meta><title>Tutelary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a weapon, you will lose only 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, instead of the usual 4 points.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defence against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities, although they may not be able to if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Magnakai Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The quest for the Lorestone of Ohrido will be fraught with danger, for the temple in which it lies is situated deep within the Danarg. Make notes as you progress through the story&emdash;they will be of great help in this and future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will help you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice enables any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.</p>
- <p>May the spirit of your ancestors guide you on the path of the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect1-1-foot" idref="sect1-1">
- <p>Many sections in the book assume that you haven't discarded the Pass. It is advisable that you don't discard it during this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave Elzian under cover of darkness on a trading ship bound for Garthen. It is a trim vessel, lean-prowed and simple in design&emdash;one of a thousand such ships that sail the chain of land-locked seas and lakes dividing the northern and southern continents of Magnamund. Its passage along this great waterway called the Tentarias is unlikely to invite undue attention, and it is for this reason that the Elder Magi have placed you aboard. The nature of your voyage is secret, but you are not alone, for a guide has been chosen to accompany you on your dangerous mission. His name is Paido, a tall, ebony-skinned Vakeros, who is a master of the art of battle-magic. Among his fellow warriors he is a high-ranking lord, respected and honoured for his bravery and skill on the field of battle. Now, for the mission that lies ahead, he has exchanged his gold and scarlet robes for the clothes of a commoner, a roving adventurer with a sword for hire. It is a disguise you too have adopted to veil your true identity on the long voyage to the land of Talestria, where a rendezvous with royalty awaits you.</p>
- <p>You sail westwards, a benevolent wind filling the triangular sail and skimming the ship across the still, blue waters. The hull seems to slide over the surface of the water rather than cut its way through, and you cannot help but wonder if Paido has conjured some magic to speed your passage. Your first port of call is the city of Talon, where food stocks and fresh water are replenished. Then the voyage continues along the Tentarias to the port of Orello, the last stopping place before your ship-bound journey ends at Garthen&emdash;crown capital of Talestria.</p>
- <p>It is an hour past midnight when you dock at Varnos harbour in Garthen, a sprawling network of quays and cracked stone jetties that shelter great fleets of merchants, traders and dhows. Silently like a shadow, you disembark and follow Paido through the twisting harbour streets, slowly climbing the steep stairs that connect one level of Garthen to the next. Rusty lanterns cast pools of yellow light beneath the timbered balconies, illuminating the stalls of merchants and vendors who will haggle, brag and barter in the crowded streets till dawn. Paido halts at an iron-shod door and raps the grille with the hilt of his blue-steel sword. A man's face appears, stern and handsome, with smooth dark hair and keen, intelligent eyes. A smile of recognition softens his lordly features when he sees Paido. In an instant the door swings open and you are ushered inside.</p>
- <p>The man's name is Adamas, Lord Constable of the Royal Citadel, protector and cousin of Queen Evaine of Talestria. For centuries a strong bond of friendship has existed between the royal household and the magicians of Dessi, and when called upon by the Elder Magi to help you in your quest, Queen Evaine pledged her support without hesitation. She has volunteered the services of Lord Adamas, who is to ensure your safe and unhindered passage through Talestria to the borders of the Danarg. At dawn, after snatching a few hours' sleep, you are taken by coach to the east city wharf, where an empty corn barge is waiting to ferry you up-river. Haulage is provided by eight large ghorkas&emdash;hairy, ox-like creatures from the plains of Slovia&emdash;which are harnessed to the barge by chains. They lumber along the cobbled towpath, continually kept in line by the stinging lash of the barge owner's zull-hide whip. The next day the barge arrives at a small river village called Lona, where a detachment of Lord Adamas' cavalry, resplendent in surcoats of scarlet and grey, provide you with horses for the cross-country journey to the fortified city of Phoena.</p>
- <p>Ill news greets you in Phoena, the city of triple towers. Zegron, warlord of Xanar, ruler of the barren highlands of Ogia, has amassed an army of Drakkarim warriors. Three days ago they attacked the border town of Luukos to the north. The Talestrian garrison put up a brave and spirited defence, but they were hopelessly outnumbered by the bloodthirsty Ogian horde that drove through the perimeter walls with battering rams and engines of war. The Drakkarim razed Luukos to the ground, and only a handful of survivors escaped to tell of the dreadful battle.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect1.gif" width="331" height="179" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect1.pdf" width="331" height="179" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>The situation is grave,</quote> reports Lord Adamas, on returning from an emergency conclave of his fellow Talestrian knights. <quote>For decades Zegron and his minions have raided our northern territories, but never before with such determination and strength. We must mobilize our army for war, for it is war that Ogia has invited by its unforgivable attack on Luukos. I must return to Garthen to muster my retainers in preparation for battle and inform the Queen of the evil that threatens her realm. I can no longer escort you to the Danarg, though your quest must proceed in spite of all that conspires against it.</quote></p>
- <p>He sends for his scribe, who arrives with helpers laden with the paraphernalia of his craft. He dictates an order of safe conduct and sets the impression of his signet ring into the hot wax seal before passing the parchment to you.</p>
- <p><quote>Our northern people are a frontier breed, wary and suspicious of strangers. If challenged, show this Pass and your safe passage will be assured by all who are loyal to Queen Evaine.</quote> (Mark this Pass<a id="sect1-1" idref="sect1-1-foot" class="footnote" /> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry tucked inside your tunic.)</p>
- <p>Early next morning Lord Adamas accompanies you and Paido to the main square of Phoena; it is from here that your quest begins. The first leg of your journey to the Danarg will take you north to the town of Tharro which nestles in the fertile uplands of Talestria. There are two ways of reaching the town: you can travel by road or you can take a barge along the River Phoen. Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> before deciding which route to take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to travel to Tharro by barge, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you prefer to ride to Tharro along the Great North Road, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water looks so fresh and clean that you are tempted to use it to wash away the swamp grime that clings to your face and hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you decide to wash in the pool, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you choose to ignore the pool and wait for Paido, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect3-1-foot" idref="sect3-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the riddle from <a idref="sect112">Section 112</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The villagers give a spontaneous cheer when they hear you answer the old man's riddle correctly.<a id="sect3-1" idref="sect3-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p><quote>Well done,</quote> he says, <quote>you are right. If the brick counter-balances three-quarters of a brick plus three-quarters of a pound, then a quarter of a brick must weigh three-quarters of a pound. The whole brick must weigh four times as much as this, which is, of course, three pounds.</quote></p>
- <p>The villagers are as good as their word. They stand aside and wish you safe passage as you leave Stia and continue your ride north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For little more than a second the space between you and your target clears. You release your arrow and it hurtles towards the necromancer's head. His death looks imminent, but he has escaped far greater threats than this. With a sudden sweep of his arm he parries the arrow with the hilt of his rapier, and the arrow disintegrates in a cloud of dust.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you wish to draw another arrow and fire again, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gigantic spider closes in for the kill, its fangs dripping with sticky black venom and its coal-black eyes glinting greedily as it savours your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow misses its mark by several yards, streaking into the forest behind the creature. There is no time for a second shot. You shoulder your bow and make ready to draw a hand weapon as the beast closes in to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333"><link-text>Turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect7-1-foot" idref="sect7-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the riddle from <a idref="sect338">Section 338</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Count looks flabbergasted when you call out the correct answer.<a id="sect7-1" idref="sect7-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Dejectedly he hands over the beautiful Silver Box and quietly leaves the hold, oblivious to the cheers of the passengers who have seen him meet his match at last. If you wish to keep the Silver Box, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you unsheathe the sun-sword, a shimmering pulse of golden flame engulfs the blade from hilt to tip. Your attackers hesitate as the pure light washes over their hellish faces. They shriek with malice and leap forward once more, their bony hands now clutching weapons of black steel previously hidden beneath their robes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>They shriek with malice and leap forward<br />clutching weapons of black steel</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Vordaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight. These undead are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained by your enemy due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The encampment is alive with the screams and howls of the bloodthirsty Ghagrim, eager to avenge the death of their kin. To stay and fight them would be suicidal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you have a Fireseed and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you do not have a Fireseed, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A stronger pulse and the appearance of sweat on his brow are the first two outward signs of Paido's recovery. Slowly he stirs to consciousness, waking from a sleep that was so nearly his last. He can remember nothing of the ordeal, and when you tell him what has happened he shakes his head in disbelief. <quote>A Helghast?</quote> he says, incredulous. <quote>How can that be?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The servants of Darklord Gnaag have infiltrated this monastery,</quote> you reply. <quote>They have kept themselves hidden, but I fear the day fast approaches when they will rise up and wreak their havoc. Already they know our true identities, and I wager they know why we're here.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>This is bitter news, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Paido, his face etched with worry. <quote>We can afford to delay no longer. If Talestria falls to Darklord Gnaag before we reach the Danarg, then the quest is lost.</quote></p>
- <p>It is a sobering thought, but you do not dwell on it. Quickly you help Paido to his feet and cast your eyes around the cellar in search of another exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill, you find it easy to detect that the coin shows <quote>heads</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to call <quote>heads</quote>, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you decide to call <quote>tails</quote>, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Reivers!</quote> screams the tavern crowd, as they stampede towards the main door, overturning benches and tables in their desperation to escape. Paido grabs his equipment and points to a door leading to the stables. <quote>This way, Lone Wolf, before the storm dampens their fear and they return with weapons.</quote></p>
- <p>Swiftly you retrieve your Kai cloak from before the fire and follow Paido as he runs towards the stable door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect13-1-foot" idref="sect13-1">
- <p>Note that in this combat, you are meant to go to <a idref="sect158">Section 158</a> immediately when the fight reaches the specified number of rounds: do not finish the combat first.</p>
- <p>The original text reads <quote>If the combat lasts more than five rounds&ellips;</quote> This would leave you no option if the fight lasts exactly five rounds. We reasoned that the most likely interpretation is that the author intended the second choice to be taken if the combat last five rounds or more. However, it is also possible that he intended for it to read "If you win the combat in five rounds or less&ellips; If the combat lasts more than five rounds," in which case would you get one more round to fight before going to <a idref="sect158">Section 158</a>.</p>
- <p>This section is very problematic for a player just starting their adventures from this book. It is actually impossible to kill both Vordaks in time if your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> is too low. According to a strict interpretation of the text, this combat must be won in four rounds or less. To find the probability of success in this combat, we counted the number of four digit combinations of numbers picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> that kill both Vordaks, divided by 10,000 (the total number of four digit possibilities). For example, a 0.03&percent; chance of success for an initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14, reflects that only 3 combinations of random number picks (in this case, 0-0-0-0, 0-0-0-9, and 0-0-9-0) out of a possible 10,000 are capable of defeating both Vordaks in time. <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are a non-issue in this case since no combination which destroys both creatures in time will also deduct 20 or more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from Lone Wolf. All of the probabilities given assume that Lone Wolf has chosen Disciplines most advantageous to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for this battle&emdash;Weaponmastery with an appropriate Weapon in his possession, Psi-surge, and Psi-screen&emdash;as well as saved the one potion of Alether found in this adventure for this battle, for a total of 9 points above the initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score.</p>
- <table>
- <tr>
- <th>Initial <typ class="attribute">CS</typ></th>
- <th>Probability of Survival</th>
- </tr>
- <tr><td align="center">10</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">11</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">12</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">13</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">14</td><td align="right">0.03&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">15</td><td align="right">0.12&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">16</td><td align="right">0.72&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">17</td><td align="right">1.62&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">18</td><td align="right">4.59&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">19</td><td align="right">14.08&percent;</td></tr>
- </table>
- <p>A player starting from this adventure with 10-13 as her or his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> cannot survive this battle and thus cannot complete the adventure. New players with a higher initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> still have a slim chance of completing this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The liquid fire tears into the Levitron's rail, twisting and melting the shiny alloy as it cuts into the hull. Two more of the Kraan swoop in and hover above the prow. Their riders leap on to the deck and begin attacking part of the superstructure. <quote>Stop them,</quote> screams Paido, drawing his sword. <quote>Stop them or we're doomed!</quote></p>
- <p>You leap from the bow and run along the main deck, your weapon raised to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must fight these creatures one at a time. They are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win the combat in four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If combat lasts five rounds or longer,<a id="sect13-1" idref="sect13-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two sour-faced soldiers stand guard at the watchtower door, grumbling about the foul weather. They view your arrival with displeasure, mumbling curses under their breath as you bring your horses to a halt.</p>
- <p><quote>What business have you here after sundown?</quote> growls one, the shorter and fatter of the two.</p>
- <p><quote>We would like to see your commanding officer,</quote> replies Paido, in a tone befitting his lordly rank. Unfortunately, neither his tone nor his travel-stained tunic impresses the surly soldiers. They refuse to grant his request out of hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to show them your Pass, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you choose to leave the watchtower, and return to the streets of Tharro, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slam your hand down on the Fireseed. There is a loud crack as it explodes, spreading a sheet of flame across the ground. The creature shrivels and drops from your wrist, its body a charred pulp.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you pluck the needle-like spines from the palm of your hand, and gradually the feeling returns. Unfortunately, with the feeling comes a terrible pain (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you wish to bathe your hand in the pool of clear water, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you choose to nurse your hand while you wait for Paido to complete his readings, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect16-1-foot" idref="sect16-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the riddle from <a idref="sect126">Section 126</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call out your answer, and at first, the man pretends not to hear.<a id="sect16-1" idref="sect16-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Hurriedly he begins to pose a second puzzle, but the crowd shout him down, insisting that he answer your call.</p>
- <p><quote>A lucky guess,</quote> he says, a little flustered at the thought of losing 20 Lune. <quote>Perhaps our friend can explain how he arrived at his answer.</quote> You reply that the answer is simple: if one and a half geese lay one and a half eggs in one and a half days, it therefore follows that three geese would lay three eggs in one and a half days, or two eggs in one day. Thus, in eight days, three geese would lay sixteen eggs.</p>
- <p>The crowd applaud your display of logic, much to the chagrin of Count Conundrum, who parts reluctantly with 20 Lune. (Record the Lune in the Belt Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;20 Lune take up the same space as 5 Gold Crowns.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse is panic-stricken; the tree-bridge is too narrow for it to turn around, and Paido's mount is so close behind that you are unable to back up without risk of sending them both over the edge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circles of Fire <em>and</em> Light, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If your total is now 0&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach inside your tunic for your Pass, but the gate guard misinterprets your action. Thinking you are reaching for a hand weapon he becomes alarmed. <quote>Accomplices!</quote> he shouts. <quote>Stop them!</quote></p>
- <p>The crowd of soldiers turn about and come running towards you, leaving their prisoner unguarded. (He immediately seizes the opportunity to make his escape.) <quote>Lone Wolf, look out!</quote> shouts Paido, as the gate guard lunges at you with his spear. You dodge aside, but the tip gashes your hip (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>The soldiers are unlikely to listen to reason. Your only hope is to evade them before you are both surrounded and speared to death.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control or Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the rank of Primate, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If your total is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate all your skill on trying to save your companion's life. Placing your hands on his chest, you transfer the warmth of your healing power into Paido's poisoned body, breaking down the toxin by degrees. The treatment is slow and laborious, and it is dawn before you know for sure if your skill has saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old woman pockets your gold and leads you and Paido to a room at the top of the stairs. Books and charts are stacked high on shelves and scattered about the floor, and daylight streams in through a domed portal in the ceiling. A massive bronze telescope is fixed to the portal, and below it rests a circular table of carved bone set with gems. Seated at the table is a beautiful young woman. Her hair is silken gold, and around her high, pale forehead she wears a circlet of jet inlaid with runes and mystic symbols.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Painfully slowly you inch your way across the bog, covering less than a mile in three hours. As the sun sets, you find yourselves in the middle of a thickening fog and decide to halt for the night and continue at dawn. Unfortunately, the Danarg quicksands shift and settle like the ebb and flow of the tide, and during the night, you are drawn into its depths to remain forever a prisoner of the bog.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Studying your map you discover that the watchtower at the top of the hill is called Shieldwarden Tower. Paido tells you that the commanding officer of the town garrison is known as the Shieldwarden of Tharro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to ride up to the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you choose to enter the temple, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A claw-like probe of mental energy rakes your mind. Instantly your Discipline repels it, protecting your thoughts and memory from its wilful intrusion, but the unexpectedness and power of the attack leaves you shivering.</p>
- <p><quote>Are you all right?</quote> asks Paido. <quote>Perhaps we should go below and shelter from this storm.</quote> You answer with a nod and follow him down the stairs into the welcoming warmth of the tap-room. The soldier Trost greets you on your return, but you fail to notice him&emdash;you are too busy scanning the hold for the stranger. You see him, seated alone in a shadowy corner opposite your table, quietly reading his black book.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the distance you see a pall of dense, black smoke rising into the sky. At its base a fortress wall and a cluster of cottages are feeding the greedy flames. Syada burns. To the north of the doomed town an army of black-clad troops covers the hills. The black wolf-head banners of Ogia sway on long poles, fluttering grimly above the ranks of the merciless horde.</p>
- <p>Along the track a great procession of men, women children come towards you, some on horseback, some in carts, and some with bundles of possessions clutched to their soot-blackened chests. They stumble forward in silence, their eyes filled with terror and despair.</p>
- <p>A soldier, bleeding from a wound to his head, rides past the crest shouting, <quote>Turn back! Turn back! The armies of darkness are coming!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A soldier bleeding from a wound to his<br />head rides past shouting <quote>Turn back!</quote></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="672" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="672" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It is impossible to continue along the track eastwards. The dirt road is blocked with refugees from Syada, and the Ogian horde are poised to launch an attack from the hills. Only two courses of action are left open to you: you can turn back along the track, or you can ride west, across the hills towards the Mordril Forest. Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> at the front of the book before making your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you wish to ride west, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you decide to turn back along the track, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic skill detects that each of the black crystal cubes are vibrating, and what is more, the vibrations are building up to an explosive intensity. Should even one tiny fragment of a crystal puncture the Levitron's pressure tank, the liquid gas stored inside will ignite and the skyship will be torn to pieces in the resulting explosion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to gather up the crystal cubes and throw them overboard, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If first you wish to help Paido fight off his attackers, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dwarf's face beams with pride as he prepares to talk on his favourite subject&emdash;himself. Nearly an hour later you have heard all there is to hear about the life and hopes of Lardin, son of Kardon of Bor.</p>
- <p><quote>What news have you of Luukos?</quote> asks Paido, as the dwarf takes a rare pause for breath.</p>
- <p><quote>News of a kind that's becomin' only too familiar round these parts,</quote> he replies in a disgruntled tone. <quote>That Zegron's bitten off more than he can chew this time. Once Lord Adamas an' the army boys come down on 'im he'll wish he'd stayed in his stinkin' city of Xanar, you mark my words.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Don't be too sure o' that, Lardin,</quote> says a rosy-faced farmer, who has sidled along the bar to join in your conversation. <quote>My sister reckons that this time Zegron won't stop till he's flattened everything between Luukos and the Tentarias.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>That star-gazin' sister o' yours is full o' good news. When 'as she ever seen anything cheerful with 'er telescopes an' charts an' crystal balls, eh? Answer me that.</quote> Agreement rumbles from the tavern crowd, now openly listening to the discussion.</p>
- <p><quote>That's as maybe,</quote> retorts the farmer. <quote>But when 'as she ever been wrong, eh?</quote> An uncomfortable silence fills the inn, and slowly the crowd return to their own business. None, least of all the innkeeper, chooses to pursue the matter further.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to ask the farmer where his sister lives, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you decide to leave the tavern and continue your journey north to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the floor and roll behind the table, the only cover available on this side of the refectory. The fireball scorches your back as it speeds across the room and explodes against the wall with a deafening crack. You find yourself lying beside Paido, who is unconscious but still alive. His blue-steel sword rests across the back of his legs, and the hilt of a dagger protrudes from the top of his boot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to take his sword, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to take his dagger and throw it at the Helghast, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect28-1-foot" idref="sect28-1">
- <p>The original text didn't allow for any bonuses to be added to the randomly picked number. We switched the choices to allow for this. If you'd rather play without bonuses, <a idref="sect125">go to 125</a> if you pick 0&endash;4 and <a idref="sect38">go to 38</a> otherwise.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take aim at the man-like creature close on your heels. Short-tufted fur covers his body and yellow tusks curl up from his boar-like snout. He wields an iron sword, old and rust-gnawed, and his eyes are black and cold.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4,<a id="sect28-1" idref="sect28-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse becomes skittish when it sees the abbey loom into view: the painful memory of the Vordak attack is still fresh in its mind. Paido's horse behaves in exactly the same manner, and you are forced to ride cross-country, making a wide detour to avoid the abbey before rejoining the track and reaching the Great North Road.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect29.gif" width="192" height="174" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect29.pdf" width="192" height="174" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect30-1-foot" idref="sect30-1">
- <p>It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Golden fire erupts along the blade of the sun-sword as you raise it above your head. The Helghast shrieks and steps back, its eyes glowing red with fear and loathing. It recognizes the power you wield, a power that is the bane of its Darklord masters, a power that can bring about their total destruction.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnaag Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><a id="sect30-1" idref="sect30-1-foot" class="footnote" /> by 2 points at the beginning of every round you fight this creature. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, you may increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of this combat. (Remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained by the enemy due to the power of the Sommerswerd.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few minutes you stare silently at the pool below. Nothing stirs in the seething waters to record the loss of your horses or the passing of the dreadful Anapheg. All three have disappeared without trace.</p>
- <p>The distant thunder of battle pervades your thoughts, prompting you to leave the tree-bridge and move deeper into the Mordril Forest. The tall trees become denser, often forcing you to turn your body sideways in order to make any progress. Gradually dense undergrowth turns to a carpet of moss and blue-black lichen which clings to your boots like mud. A chill overwhelms you as a thick and pearly mist seeps from the cracks beneath the trees. The many sounds of the forest have disappeared to be replaced by a cold and eerie silence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you are in need of Tincture of Oxydine or of Oede herb, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you need neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido opens the tailboard and you pull yourself into the wagon. The driver jerks the reins and the rickety vehicle moves away, its wheels squealing as it clatters across the flagstoned quadrangle. In the narrow street ahead you see your horses hitched to a post outside a bakery. You call to the cloaked driver to stop and immediately he obeys your command, pulling his mules to a halt opposite the baker's shop. You bid farewell to your silent friend and retrieve your horses. He returns your wave with a smile and, as you mount your horse, you notice that around his neck he wears a wooden amulet shaped like a fish.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the sound of angry voices echoes along the street as the monks emerge from the baker's shop. You and Paido spur your horses to a gallop and not until you reach the town's north gate do you bring them to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the grape-sized seed from your pocket and toss it over the counter. Seconds later there is a blinding flash as the Fireseed erupts into flame. The innkeeper leaps into the air, screaming like a madman as he fights to smother the flames which are eating a large hole in the seat of his trousers. He scrambles through the overturned tables and chairs and disappears through the main door. An instant later you hear a loud splash and the hiss of steam as the unfortunate dwarf leaps feet first into the village stream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you run you pull some food from your pack and drop it behind you in the mud. The temptation proves too much for the ravenous spider and it stops to gobble up the scraps. You escape into the mist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The paved street leads to a large stone building, its walls blank and featureless except for the stains of time. A group of fletchers sits outside beneath a row of bright lanterns, gluing feathers to thin shafts of wood. They work with speed and skill, transforming the rods into arrows of fine quality.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to stop and investigate the building, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The withered trees are grouped more densely around the northern edge of the pool. A ceiling of vines criss-crosses above your head, and creatures slither against your ankles as you wade through the foul-smelling mud. Progress is very slow.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect36.gif" width="175" height="209" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect258.pdf" width="175" height="209" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly fearful screams, like the baying of rabid dogs, sound from the mist-enshrouded trees ahead. A host of creeping creatures, each an arm's length taller than a man, rise from their hiding places. Black water drips from their corpse-green hides, and their toad-like faces betray their evil intent as they slither and shuffle towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you have a Fireseed and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The next barge north stops 'ere in an hour's time, though it's like to be a might late 'cause o' the storm,</quote> he says. <quote>The fare is 40 Lune. If you wait at the jetty you'll see it when it comes up the valley.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you want to ask the old woman about her daughter, Tadia the Prophetess, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to thank her and leave the Ferry House, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow slices a wedge out of its shoulder and disappears into the dark, striking another of the beasts lurking in the undergrowth. The boar-faced Ghagrim ignores his bleeding shoulder and continues to advance, licking the blade of his rusty sword as he closes to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ghagrim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect309">You can evade combat after three rounds; <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to release the arrow a split second before the fireball hits you in the chest and flings you backwards to the ground! Lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your shaft sinks into the Helghast's stomach but the creature is unshaken. With a gloating laugh it plucks the arrow from its body and hurls it aside with contempt. This fiend is unaffected by ordinary weapons; it can only be harmed by magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to take cover behind the refectory table, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your instinct saves you. The speeding shaft punctures your sleeve, drawing an angry red weal across your forearm before shattering against the wall behind&emdash;lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The bowyery owner utters a thin cry of disbelief and hurls the bow at your head, distracting you as he unsheathes his sword.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bourn the Bowyer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wagon pulls away as the monks turn the corner into the alley. As soon as they set eyes on you and Paido they raise the alarm. <quote>Murderers!</quote> they scream, their voices echoing across the town. One of them turns and disappears into the quadrangle to summon more help. The remaining four unsheathe their swords and spread out in a line. Their eyes blaze with hatred as they prepare to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Monks of the Sword</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">31</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You may add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight as Paido is fighting alongside you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect42-1-foot" idref="sect42-1">
- <p>If you are infected with the korovax bacillus, you may now use the Tincture of Oxydine to cure yourself.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I am Tadia the Prophetess,</quote> she says, her voice soft and lilting, <quote>and you are Lone Wolf, lord of the sun-realm, skarn of legend.</quote> Paido reaches for his sword but you stay his hand, for you sense that this woman wishes to help, not harm you.</p>
- <p><quote>We live in an age of great peril. Your enemies of old are our enemies; they stand poised to conquer our land and I fear we are too weak to resist them. Your purpose is known to me, and I will aid you all I can in the hope that you will fulfil your destiny and destroy the champions of darkness.</quote></p>
- <p>Tadia raises her arms and points towards the sky. Floating in the air between her parted hands appears a spinning globe of white fire. She tilts back her head and stares into this ball of flame, her eyes unblinking despite the fearful intensity of the light. <quote>Your safest passage to the Danarg is through the Mordril Forest,</quote> she says solemnly. <quote>The road to Syada is fraught with danger&emdash;only battle and death await you there.</quote></p>
- <p>The globe flickers and fades and Tadia returns her gaze to you. <quote>Let nothing delay your quest, Lone Wolf. The future of both our lands depends on your success.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you leave the prophetess offers you a choice of potions and weapons. You may take whatever you wish but remember to amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. Choose from the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>POTION OF ALETHER&emdash;increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of a single combat.</li>
- <li>POTION OF LAUMSPUR&emdash;restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (enough for one dose).</li>
- <li>BROADSWORD</li>
- <li>QUARTERSTAFF</li>
- <li>RENDALIM'S ELIXIR&emdash;restores 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (enough for one dose).</li>
- <li>TINCTURE OF OXYDINE&emdash;restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (enough for one dose).<a id="sect42-1" idref="sect42-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- </ul>
- <p>All potions are Backpack Items.</p>
- <p>Once you have made your choice you leave the Ferry House and continue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89"><link-text>Turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the saddle, narrowly avoiding being pulled off the tree-bridge. Your horse and the hideous creature both disappear from view, quickly swallowed up by the spray from the waterfall. As you land on the slippery wet wood, Paido's horse rears up on its hind legs, its forelegs kicking the air and its eyes rolling madly. He fights to control the animal but it is wild with fear and, with a crack of splintering wood, its hind hoof shears through a rotten branch; it totters on the brink. Paido swings his legs clear and abandons his doomed horse barely seconds before it falls into the watery abyss.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect43.gif" width="250" height="178" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect43.pdf" width="250" height="178" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, she lost all her maps and equipment while escaping from the Danarg. However, she clearly recalls seeing the Temple of Ohrido from the peak of a hill she calls <quote>The Scarlet Tor</quote>, which is situated on an island of firm ground, thirty miles beyond the Syada track. You thank her for her help and wish her good fortune before leaving the shop and continuing on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your skill to repel the awesome snake, but it is very hungry and the smell of Paido's warm flesh draws it closer despite your success at masking your own scent.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total is now 0&endash;6 <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If your total is now 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kezoor lies dead, but Paido warns you not to approach the body. <quote>I've heard tell that these priests of evil can awaken after death to avenge themselves. Stand back and I'll make sure this one never returns to haunt us.</quote></p>
- <p>Paido raises his sword and severs Kezoor's head with one swift stroke. Both eyelids spring open revealing eyes burning red with hatred, but the fire quickly dies and the eyes turn a misty grey.</p>
- <p><quote>There, it is done,</quote> says Paido, wiping his sword on the sleeve of his tunic. He steps back and looks around. <quote>Where is Trost?</quote></p>
- <p>You cast your eyes to the place where he fell and see a fire-blackened body covered with the remains of incinerated spiders. <quote>There he is,</quote> you say sadly. Paido takes a blanket from his Backpack and drapes it over the corpse before reciting the words of the Knurla&emdash;a Vakeros prayer for those who have fallen in battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect47-1-foot" idref="sect47-1">
- <p>It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>This blue-steel blade was forged in the furnaces of Elzian, crafted by the Elder Magi as an instrument of good. The Helghast senses its latent power and hurriedly casts another sparking fireball, but it is poorly aimed. You strike the missile as you vault over the table, sending it hurtling back to its sender. It glances off the creature's shoulder and jars the staff from its shrunken hand. You seize the advantage and attack before it can retrieve the deadly weapon.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnaag Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><a id="sect47-1" idref="sect47-1-foot" class="footnote" /> by 2 points at the beginning of every round that you fight this creature. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, you may increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from the snickering Rahgu and grab Paido by the arm, dragging him along as best you can as you beat a hasty retreat. The creatures pursue you to the edge of the gas cloud but no further. You stop at the junction gasping in lungfuls of clearer air and then press on along the west spur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Boran! Boran!</quote> shouts the dwarf, as he fights to get a grip of your tunic. Suddenly a door beside the bar slams open and another dwarf, younger and far more muscular than the innkeeper, strides into the room holding a massive, nail-studded club in his hairy fists. The innkeeper jumps aside as his son raises the club to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you have reached the rank of Primate and possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you have yet to reach the rank of Primate, or you do not possess the skill of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you scramble across the deck, collecting and hurling away the cubes as you go. Each cube is vibrating with an energy that is set to rip it apart, and as you cast the last one over the side, you see the others, many of them exploding with dull booms in the swamp far below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You plummet through the mist and crash head first into the rocks and boulders that lie just beneath the surface of the pool, 100 feet below. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a venomous Taan-spider and must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Taan-spider</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to its venomous bite, you must double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained during the combat. This creature is especially susceptible to Mindblast and Psi-surge: triple all bonuses you would normally receive if you choose to attack with mind power.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Many years ago, this craft sailed the Tentarias, carrying cargoes of corn and linen to markets in the east. Now, old and leaky, it serves in retirement as a ferry for the farmers and settlers in the north.</p>
- <p>The cabin was once luxurious, but it is now a cluttered mess of decaying junk. The sweet smell of pitch and damp timber hangs in the air, and patches of mould colour the walls.</p>
- <p>Lying on a solitary bunk amongst a tangle of leather straps, rope and torn clothing is a cork-stoppered flask of purple liquid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to pull the cork and sniff the contents, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you prefer to leave the flask untouched, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stable is full of fine horses, all of them as sound and sturdy as the mounts given to you by Lord Adamas. Paido acts as lookout while you saddle up two black stallions. You are making the final adjustments to their bridles when Paido hisses a warning. <quote>Four monks coming this way!</quote></p>
- <p>You mount your fresh steeds and gallop out of the stables, scattering the startled monks, who had just reached the door. In an act of desperation, one of the monks unsheathes his sword and hurls it at your back. The deadly blade spins through the air with alarming accuracy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Disciplines of Huntmastery <em>and</em> Divination, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If it is 3 or more, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shafts of sunlight break through the slate-grey cloud, and the rain eases off and finally stops. You ride across the rolling valley floor towards the River Phoen until the track stops at a ramshackle house perched precariously on the river-bank. An old wooden jetty juts out from the side of the house, its platform almost submerged in the rain-swollen river. A noticeboard standing in front of the house reads:</p>
- <signpost>
- <p>FERRY HOUSE LANDING</p>
- <p>Passenger barges to Tharro&emdash;embark from this jetty.<br />Barges to Phoena&emdash;embark from opposite bank.</p>
- <p>NO CATTLE, WAGONS, CARAVANS OR HERD ANIMALS UNLESS BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT</p>
- </signpost>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to wait here for a barge to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to investigate the Ferry House, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive at a mound where a tree bearing blood-red fruit overhangs a pool of crystal-clear water. You stop to rest and to dislodge the tiny leeches that are feasting on your legs.</p>
- <p>Paido climbs the tree to scan the horizon. He carries with him a starguider, a homing device invented by the Elder Magi to enable their flying ships to navigate in the dark. It is sensitive to the vibrations given off by korlinium crystals. The spire of the Temple of Ohrido is solid korlinium, and the Elder Magi have set Paido's starguider to home in on the vibrations emitted by the spire. By following the direction of the signals, it is hoped that you will be able to find the lost temple.</p>
- <p>Whilst Paido is busy adjusting the starguider, you decide to investigate your surroundings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to examine the red fruit, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to examine the pool of water, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to sit back and wait for Paido to finish his readings, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A breathtaking agony engulfs you as three sharpened spearheads penetrate your rib cage. You turn to Paido, your hands outstretched, your eyes wide with pain. He lunges forward in a desperate bid to catch you as you fall but he too is struck down by thrusting spears. Amid the sounds of chaos and confusion, you slip unwillingly into the waiting arms of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Long streamers of moss-covered vines hang down the red rock wall in huge numbers, inviting you to climb on to the plateau above. After the uncertain ground of the swamp, the hard, jagged rock is a welcome relief. You make good progress, reaching the top just as the sun is sinking into a sea of scarlet mist that shrouds the eastern Danarg. In the failing light, you discover a trail that winds northwards through the knee-high foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect59-1-foot" idref="sect59-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the riddle from <a idref="sect141">Section 141</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>What little colour there is in the Count's already pallid face drains away.<a id="sect59-1" idref="sect59-1-foot" class="footnote" /> The crowd hoots with delight as he nods his head slowly to affirm that your answer is correct. As the ice-lilies double in number each day, the lake is half-covered on the day before it is fully covered.</p>
- <p>Begrudgingly the Count hands over your prize&emdash;40 Lune. Record the Lune in the Belt Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (40 Lune occupy the same space as 10 Gold Crowns).</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A ghastly transformation is taking place before your eyes. The monk's face is writhing and contorting as the skin tightens and grows darker. Tattered flesh drops from his sunken cheeks to hang in festoons beneath the exposed jawbone. A sickening dread fills your heart as you recognize the creature standing before you. It is a Helghast, a nightmarish agent of the Darklords. Its demonic eyes glow like red-hot coals as it shrieks and raises its long black staff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido dismounts and peers through a cracked window set into the rough stone base of the mill. <quote>Looks deserted,</quote> he comments, his sharp eyes probing the gloomy interior.</p>
- <p><quote>How about up there,</quote> you suggest, pointing to a platform that juts out from the side. Paido climbs a rickety wooden staircase that clings precariously to the mouldering stonework. Just as he reaches the top, he halts in mid-step. Slowly he raises his hands above his head: he must be in danger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrival of the swamp python frightened away the crawling denizens of the mire, but now they are returning to satisfy their curiosity. Hordes of slithering lizard-beasts gather at the edge of the floating morass, inching their way nearer as they assess your strengths and weaknesses. Relentlessly you push your way through the soggy vegetation until you reach the jagged rock wall of the island, urged on all the way by a hissing chorus of swamp creatures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dingy alley soon opens on to a tiny square where three wider streets converge. Dusk is turning to darkness, and the faded street signs are now all but impossible to read.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to take the street to your left, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to take the street to your right, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to take the street ahead, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seconds later you hear the crash of broken furniture as a fight breaks out inside the cabin. Paido has surprised your would-be assailant, and the two of them are now locked in hand-to-hand combat. Abruptly the noise ceases, and Paido appears at the front door, sweating and dishevelled, his sword bloodied in his hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Where have you been?</quote> he asks, stepping aside to allow you to enter. A scar-faced man lies dead on the floor, a wooden stave lying across his chest. <quote>Come and see what I've found in the back room,</quote> says Paido, leading the way.</p>
- <p>Small sacks, each filled with nuggets of silver, are stacked in a huge mound that reaches almost to the ceiling. <quote>No wonder he fought so desperately,</quote> you say, staring at this treasure hoard. <quote>There's enough silver here to pay a king's ransom.</quote></p>
- <p>You may take some treasure before you leave&emdash;each Sack of Silver counts as one Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to continue along the valley, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to investigate the mine, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you agree a plan of action. Paido and Trost will approach the necromancer while you guard the stairs. If he should evade your companions, he'll have you to contend with before he can escape from the hold.</p>
- <p>Unhurriedly, you leave your seat and walk to the tap-room stairs. When you are in position your companions rise and advance towards the stranger who remains motionless, seemingly engrossed in his black book. Trost draws his sword and challenges the man, demanding that he state his name and the purpose of his journey. It is a fatal mistake. The man looks up from his book, his grey eyes suddenly aglow with a terrible red fire. Trost screams. His face has become a mass of horrible, erupting boils. As he falls to the floor, Paido strikes, his sword a shimmering lance of blue steel forged by the Elder Magi. His attack is lightning fast, but the necromancer counters his blow on the edge of his blade. Sparks explode, showering the tap-room with glowing fragments. The crowd begins to cheer, but their cheers turn to screams of terror when the necromancer summons a new defence.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Trost's face has become a mass of horrible erupting boils</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="682" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="682" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido opens his palm to reveal the small gold coin: it shows heads. <quote>Bad luck!</quote> he exclaims with a grin. <quote>You take the first watch.</quote> He settles himself down on the mound of spongy earth and is soon asleep, snoring softly. You sit beside him, your eyes scouring the black spaces between the ghostly grey trees.</p>
- <p>The first half of the night passes uneventfully. In need of rest, you are about to awaken Paido when you sense something moving in the shadows off to your right. Two tiny pin-points of yellow light blink in the darkness. You draw your weapon, expecting an attack, but you can no longer see the eyes of the shadow creature. Paido wakes and takes over the watch, but the lingering feeling that you are being observed makes you uneasy and disturbs your rest (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Four hours later, you wake to the gloomy grey of dawn and prepare to set off once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take cover behind the pulpit and focus your skill on a corner at the far end of the hall. Two hunting dogs run through the curtained archway and stop in the middle of the aisle, as if waiting for their handlers to catch up. Seconds later a group of monks appear, each armed with a sword. They approach the far corner and search it thoroughly, certain that the pews harbour you and your companion. When they discover them empty, they quickly leave the hall and descend the stairs, their baying hounds in tow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon seeing Lord Adamas' seal, the guard returns your Pass, salutes, and commands that the gate be opened without delay. You pass through the gatehouse arch and enter an open courtyard. Two avenues lead from the courtyard: Copperpiece Lane and Hog-Foot Run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to go east into Copperpiece Lane, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to go north into Hog-Foot Run, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you are hit in the back and propelled into the yawning chasm. Paido, who was following closely on your heels, has rammed into you and sent you tumbling over the edge. As you plummet to your doom, you hear his scream of anguish, echoing in the void.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido kicks open the side door and rushes out into the storm with you close on his heels. A grimy-faced farmer blocks the passage beyond, a pitchfork wobbling in his clumsy hands. Paido emits a shout far louder than you ever imagined could be made by a human voice. The force of the shout hits the man in the chest and slams him to the muddy ground like a limp rag doll.</p>
- <p><quote>Vakeros power-word,</quote> explains Paido, in answer to your unspoken question. <quote>Someday I'll teach you the technique, Kai lord.</quote></p>
- <p>A handful of plains folk, clutching rakes and hoes, are waiting for you at the stable door. But, after seeing the fate that befell their leader, they throw down their improvised weapons and melt into the storm.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you saddle your mounts and gallop away from the tavern at full speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your body has shielded Paido from the blast, and he has escaped serious injury. He tends your raw, blistered face and bandages your hands with strips of cloth torn from his undershirt. Your injuries are severe: they reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 points for the duration of this adventure and permanently reduce your score by 3 points in future adventures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to continue along the causeway, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you decide to turn back and take the west spur, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the archway is a narrow alley that leads to the quadrangle. You reach the end of the alley and peer around the corner to check that all is clear. You see a group of monks walking towards you, all armed with swords.</p>
- <p>Waiting on the other corner is a small wagon. Its canvas cover is threadbare and patched in a score of places. It is harnessed to a pair of moth-eaten old mules and a driver sits holding their reins, his features hidden by a hooded black robe. As the monks draw closer he raises a hand and beckons to you; he wants you to hide in his wagon. It is now or never&emdash;the monks are about to turn the corner.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you wish to hide in the wagon, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you choose to stand and confront the monks, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hamlet of Honey Lodge is small&emdash;two cottages, a barn and a stone watchtower cluster in a circle at the river's edge. A gang of excited young boys wait on the rain-swept jetty to welcome home their fathers, each hoping for a present, perhaps a fishing rod or a hunting bow, from the marketplace in Phoena.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect73.gif" width="249" height="125" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect73.pdf" width="249" height="125" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Eight men, including the Count, disembark at Honey Lodge, but only one new passenger embarks for the journey to Tharro&emdash;a thin individual with hard grey eyes that gleam coldly from beneath his wide-brimmed hat. Slung at his side is a narrow-bladed sword, and in his hand he clutches a leather-bound book, its cover as plain and as black as his clothing. He pays his fare and descends to the tap-room, pausing briefly at the top of the stairs to return your stare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach the Magnakai rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are unable to unsheathe a weapon. Your only hope is to attack this creature using your mind power alone.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Korkuna</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For this psychic combat reduce your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score to 15 and conduct the combat in the normal way. You are unable to make use of any Special Items, weapons or Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you survive the psychic combat, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chilling sound of the Helghast's laughter rings in your ears as you launch yourself against this fell creature. It offers no resistance to your attack and you smite a crushing blow, tearing it from shoulder to stomach. But the Helghast does not cease laughing and no blood pours from its wound, for it cannot be harmed by sharpened steel or hardened wood&emdash;its bane is magic.</p>
- <p>The last sound you hear is the roar of fire as a searing burst of flame penetrates your chest.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect76-1-foot" idref="sect76-1">
- <p><a idref="sect221">Section 221</a> gives you further information about these monks. It is most likely the author's mistake that you miss this information in lieu of the discovery you make by using Divination in this section. At your discretion <a idref="sect221">go to 221</a> before making your choice in this section.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monks are communicating telepathically. Although you do not recognize the language they are using in their mind-speech, you sense that they are anxious and uneasy in your presence.<a id="sect76-1" idref="sect76-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to stop to pay your respects to the deceased, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to continue on your way without stopping at the abbey, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow enters the creature's mouth, transfixing its tongue to the back of its throat. It gurgles and chomps on the feathered shaft, its clawed fingers scrabbling to pull it free. In its frenzy it loses its footing and slips, throwing open its arms instinctively to steady itself. Its claws ensnare your horse's bridle and, as it topples from the tree-bridge, it pulls your horse and you over the edge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If your total is now 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If it is 2 or more, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount and climb the steps leading to the temple doors. An old man in brown robes answers your knock and invites you and Paido inside; a novice attends to your horses.</p>
- <p>Stepping through the door is like stepping into another world. The air is sweet with incense and the flickering light, cast by a long row of squat red candles, does little to illuminate the interior. You follow the old man along a vaulted corridor, down several flights of stairs, and finally into a torchlit refectory. A delicious smell of cooking wafts from an open hatch in the wall together with the sounds of people in the kitchen beyond.</p>
- <p><quote>Be seated,</quote> says the old man, pointing to a stout oak table laid for supper, <quote>and enjoy our humble food. May it revive you after your travels and fortify you for the road ahead.</quote></p>
- <p>Another monk enters the chamber, carrying two steaming plates of meat stew. He sets them down before you and blesses the food with the words, <quote>gaj kog zutag</quote>. You are hungry after your day's journey and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to eat the appetizing stew, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you choose to eat a Meal from your Backpack instead, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you decide to go without food, deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly more shrieking Vordaks crash down on the deck. Paido is immediately engulfed by the red-robed figures. He is out-numbered but he fights with a tiger-like tenacity, his blue-bladed sword tearing deep into their loathsome bodies. You are running back across the main deck when a new danger confronts you. A Kraan sweeps low across the skyship, dropping a cluster of black crystal cubes that scatter across the deck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and have reached the Kai rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>In the name of the gods, what's happened here?</quote> thunders the captain as he hurries down the tap-room stairs. A crowd of passengers huddle in his wake, frightened but curious to discover the outcome of the fight that has devastated the hold. <quote>I'll see you pay for this,</quote> he blusters. <quote>It'll cost hundreds of Lune to fix this damage. Pay up now or I'll take it out of your hides!</quote></p>
- <p>Paido snatches the cloth from a nearby table and scoops up the head of Kezoor, wrapping and tying it tightly with cord. He tosses this gruesome package to the captain, together with the notice of death that lies beside Trost's scorched body. <quote>That'll pay for the damage, captain,</quote> says Paido, <quote>and be sure that the balance goes to the family of this brave soldier or we'll take it out of <em>your</em> hide!</quote></p>
- <p>As the captain reads the scroll a wry grin spreads slowly across his weather-worn face. <quote>So, Kezoor met his doom aboard my barge,</quote> he says, thoughtfully. <quote>Maybe I'll leave the hold just as it is. There's plenty o' folk who'd pay to see the place where this rogue ended his days.</quote></p>
- <p>The captain orders his crew to prepare the corpses for burial, and as the bargees carry away Kezoor's remains, you notice his black book lying on the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to examine the book, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you wish to leave it untouched, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl the Fireseed and it strikes the jagged rock directly in front of the hissing swamp-dwellers. In the next instant the swamp, the creatures, and the causeway itself are transformed into a searing ball of flame as the exploding Fireseed ignites the inflammable cloud of gas. The blast badly burns your face and hands and scorches your tunic&emdash;lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you are still alive after this catastrophe, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the foot-worn cobbles of Globe Walk, past the premises of coopers, cobblers and carpenters, to an open square where you see a sign pointing to an alley that disappears among the shadows. Ahead the street continues, flanked by shops and the town's perimeter wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to ride along the alley, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blows drive the needles deeper into your hand, but the anaesthetic prevents you from feeling any pain.</p>
- <p>The creature is soon crushed to a pulp and drops from your hand in tattered lumps. You nurse your nerveless fingers, pulling the needles from your palm that have been driven so deep that their points protrude from the back of your hand. Gradually feeling returns, and with it comes pain as intense as if you had held a red-hot coal&emdash;lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you wish to bathe your burning hand in the pool of clear water, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you choose not to bathe your hand, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your mental energy on your opponent's weapon and launch a pulse of psi-power. There is a loud crack as the studded club splits in two above the dwarf's head, showering him with splinters of wood. He screams and falls flat on his back.</p>
- <p><quote>Sorcerers!</quote> exclaims the startled crowd, as they stampede towards the main door, overturning benches and tables in their desperation to escape. The dwarf follows suit, mustering his senses and scurrying away through the side door on all fours like a frightened boar. The innkeeper is nowhere to be seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer through the tiny circular window where you saw the face, but the gloomy interior looks deserted. The stone cabin consists of two rooms: one at the front and one at the rear. <quote>Anyone at home?</quote> you call in a friendly voice, but you receive no reply.</p>
- <p>Silently you motion to Paido to investigate the rear of the hut while you enter at the front door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect86-1-foot" idref="sect86-1">
- <p>It seems unreasonable to lose zero <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points after getting hit by a sword. You may choose to interpret picking <quote>0</quote> as indicating a 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss. Other adventures sometimes instruct you to interpret a <quote>0</quote> this way in similar situations.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>From behind come screams of outrage as the monks stumble upon the smouldering remains of the Helghast. <quote>Stop the murderers!</quote> they cry. <quote>Stop them!</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly a sharp pain shoots up your leg as a monk slashes you viciously with a short sword. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. The number you pick is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose<a id="sect86-1" idref="sect86-1-foot" class="footnote" /> as you scramble through the hatch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you survive the escape, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido appears in the doorway as the bowyer falls dead at your feet. <quote>He tried to kill me,</quote> you say, as you scour the floor for your silver bow.</p>
- <p><quote>Foolish fellow,</quote> answers Paido, sardonically. <quote>He'll not try that again.</quote> You discover the bow, but it is damaged beyond repair (delete this Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p><quote>Bourn, Bourn!</quote> Someone in the bowyery is calling the dead owner's name. Paido suggests leaving quickly and quietly by the rear door and leads the way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to follow him, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to stop and search the bowyer's body, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blood pounds in your ears as you gallop towards the onrushing warriors. There is a mighty crash, and suddenly you are in the thick of the battle. Steel bites steel and the curses and cries of the enemy ring loudly in your ears as you fight desperately to survive. You swing in the saddle and fell a warrior with a crushing blow to his chest, ducking an instant later as a spiked mace whistles past your head. Paido dispatches its wielder, running him through with his blue-steel blade. Their leader bellows an order and they pull away, standing off a dozen paces to regroup and recover. Paido reins his horse to your side as the bronze-helmed warrior lord yells his battle-cry: <quote>Shaag Drakkarim!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The bronze-helmeted warrior lord yells<br />his battle-cry <quote>Shaag Drakkarim!</quote></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="627" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="627" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Horselords</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you descend the steps of the Ferry House, Paido catches sight of something glinting in the distance.</p>
- <p><quote>It's the barge,</quote> he says, shielding his eyes from the sun which is shining at last. A team of bedraggled ghorkas are hauling the vessel upstream, seemingly unaffected by the storm-strengthened flow. Eventually the barge arrives at the jetty and stops to allow a motley assortment of peasants and travellers to disembark.</p>
- <p><quote>You two goin' to Tharro?</quote> asks the captain. <quote>The fare's 40 Lune a-piece, an' that includes y'horses.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you want to board the barge, pay the captain the 40 Lune (or 10 Gold Crowns) and <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you do not want to board, or if you cannot afford the fare, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shaft penetrates deep into the creature's rib cage but he seems unmoved. He breaks the flights and hurls them at you as he closes in for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to engage this creature in close combat, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to evade its attack, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Twilight is approaching. As the sky above darkens, a black bird flies among the upper branches, emitting a shrill cry, which sounds unnaturally loud in the silent forest. It settles, stares at you for a few minutes, then flaps away. A little later you stumble upon a clearing. Shafts of ghostly moonlight pour through a gap in the black canopy of leaves, revealing a mound of earth, rising out of the forest mist. You are both exhausted after the day's events and agree to stop here to rest. Paido takes a Gold Crown from his pocket and tosses it in the air to decide who should take the first watch. <quote>Heads or tails?</quote> he asks, the Crown clenched in his fist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to call <quote>heads</quote>, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to call <quote>tails</quote>, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the guard has taken a dislike to you. The attack on Luukos has made the Tharro garrison more suspicious than usual and, rather than risk allowing two possible spies into the stronghold, he turns you away. <quote>Go back to Phoena, if that's where you've come from,</quote> he shouts. <quote>We've no welcome here for strangers.</quote></p>
- <p>It will soon be dark. You, Paido and the horses need food and rest, but there is scant hope of finding either on the darkening plain that surrounds Tharro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you wish to skirt the perimeter of Fortress Hill and look for another entrance to the town, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you decide to camp out on the plain, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skin prickles with fearful premonition, for you are in the presence of a powerful evil. With pounding heart you rise from your seat in readiness for combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you do not have a bow or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that someone is hiding behind the door. He or she is armed and intends to attack you as you enter the hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you wish to unsheathe a hand weapon before you open the door, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you decide not to enter the hut, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you slip from your saddle and pad noiselessly through the mud, hiding in the shadows cast by the timber staircase. You reach the far side of the platform and look up to see the silhouette of a man clutching a spear, its tip held low at Paido's midriff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you wish to call to the man to put down his spear, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you choose to stay quietly hidden in the shadows of the platform, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the steps to the pulpit as swiftly as you are able and rest Paido in the recess behind its sword-shaped facia. By chance his tunic snags on a hidden lever and, as his body slumps over, the lever is pulled to one side. Suddenly the floor of the pulpit shudders and begins to descend into a secret passage beneath the hall.</p>
- <p>Carefully you pull Paido off the platform and raise him into a sitting position, his back against the passage wall. Slowly the platform rises back into the pulpit. In the silence of this secret passage all you can hear is the shallow breathing of your unconscious companion. You lift one of his eyelids and note that the almond-shaped iris is fully dilated. Your basic Kai skill of healing informs you that he is in a coma.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you slip the tip of your dagger beneath the creature's body and wrench the blade back, cutting it clean in half. The tentacles release their grip, and the two halves drop from your nerveless hand. Hurriedly you pluck the needle-like spines from your palm and the feeling gradually returns&emdash;lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you wish to bathe your stinging hand in the pool of clear water, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide not to bathe it, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cloying smell in the cabin is unbearable and soon forces you to return to the deck to clear your lungs. From there you see the captain walking along the river bank inspecting his team of long-haired ghorkas. Stoically they haul the barge upstream, rarely faltering as they tread the rutted and potholed towpath. Beyond the bank lies an incredible array of colourful wild flowers&emdash;scarlet lankpetal, yellow podlumes and violet mellowroots of towering proportions. Their perfume soon dispels the lingering odour in the cabin.</p>
- <p>The colourful fields suddenly give way to rolling acres of grassy plain, and gradually the sky grows darker until just a slender streak of light fringes the horizon. It is not long before a roll of thunder echoes across the plain.</p>
- <p><quote>Storm brewing,</quote> shouts the captain, as the first drops of rain splash the deck. <quote>You two best take shelter below.</quote> You baulk at the thought of returning to the dank and dismal cabin. Paido suggests a visit to the tap-room and offers to buy you ale. It is an offer that sounds too good to refuse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151"><link-text>Turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monk utters a thin but chilling laugh in reply to your demand.</p>
- <p><quote>What do you want with us?</quote> shouts Paido, his voice sharp and threatening. But the monk offers no reply. Instead he stands motionless and silent, his eyes fixed firmly on you. Paido repeats his demand, but his voice is weaker. The sword is now trembling in his hand. With a groan he collapses scattering plates and cutlery as he hits the table and crashes to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great doors close with a whisper. You follow Paido along a corridor of gleaming silvery metal that dazzles your eyes to a hall carved from solid crystal. Icicles of diamond hang from its ceiling and reflect in a floor set with mosaics of a thousand shimmering squares.</p>
- <p><quote>Approach the crystal dais, Lone Wolf,</quote> instructs Paido, pointing to a radiant circular plateau of pure quartz.</p>
- <p>But even as his words leave his lips you are already walking towards the plinth, drawn by a strange compulsion. You mount the dais and a flood of golden light pours down from above, bathing you in its warm, cleansing rays. You raise your cupped hands, as if offering up an invisible gift, and a tingling sensation runs the length of your arms and spreads through your body, giving you an incredible sense of well being. A ball of sparkling light is taking shape in your hands. It condenses into a radiant crystal filled with golden fire: it is the Lorestone of Ohrido.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>It is the Lorestone of Ohrido</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="670" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="670" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect239">Restore your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to its original level and <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The attackers shriek with murderous glee as they form a circle around Paido and yourself. They pull maces from inside their robes and leap forward, brandishing the black steel weapons in their bony fists.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat. These creatures are undead. They are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Day breaks and the view it brings fills you with awe. Perched on this rocky peak, you can see the sheer vastness of the swamp in all its frightening glory for the first time. Paido activates the starguider and scans the horizon, but even before its tell-tale clicks are heard, your eagle eyes have spotted the glint of the temple's korlinium spire. To the west, beyond a sea of sickly green-black vegetation, stands the Temple of Ohrido, imprisoned but unaffected by the swamp.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect102.gif" width="288" height="154" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect102.pdf" width="288" height="154" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The howl of the Ghagrim echoes across the island as you make your descent, by rope and vine, to the wetlands below. You reach the rocky base and set off across the mud flats, following the starguider's signal now that the spire is hidden by swamp mist.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect150">If it is 6&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bead of sweat on Paido's forehead is the first sign of his recovery. Slowly he stirs to consciousness, waking from a sleep that was so nearly his last. He can remember nothing of the ordeal, and when you tell him what has happened he shakes his head in disbelief. <quote>A Helghast?</quote> he says, incredulously. <quote>How can it be?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The servants of Darklord Gnaag have infiltrated this monastery,</quote> you reply. <quote>They have kept themselves hidden, but I fear the day is fast approaching when they will rise up and wreak their havoc. Already they know our true identities, and I wager they know why we're here.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>This is bitter news, Lone Wolf,</quote> replies Paido, his face etched with worry. <quote>We can afford to delay no longer. If Talestria falls to Darklord Gnaag before we reach the Danarg, then the quest is lost.</quote> You nod in agreement, and as you cast your eyes along the gloomy passageway, you cannot help but wonder if the quest is already lost. With a shake of your head you dismiss the thought and help Paido to his feet.</p>
- <p>The passage follows a tortuous path that leads eventually to a panelled door. A raised button activates the lock, and the door slides into the wall to reveal a strange room. Domed and hexagonal, its walls are hung with tapestries depicting strange and grotesque creatures. Numerous plinths stand upon the richly carpeted floor, each supporting a large bowl filled to the brim with a silvery liquid. Cautiously you step through the secret portal and into this sumptuous chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sudden chill of cold water on your brow makes you open your eyes with a start. Blinking away the droplets, you shake your head and a terrible pain shoots through your skull, making you curse and grit your teeth: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Strong hands lift you off the floor and steer you towards a quiet corner of the tap-room where Paido sits, grinning broadly. <quote>That Bor Brew packs a vicious punch,</quote> he says, blithely, barely able to conceal his amusement at the effect the ale has had on you.</p>
- <p><quote>It's got a taste like nectar but the kick of an angry mule!</quote> replies the man in red, who has helped you across the floor. As your vision and the pain in your head begin to clear, you notice that he is a soldier. He wears the scarlet tunic of the Tharro garrison, emblazoned with their insignia of a castle and an open hand. You apologize for the trouble you have caused and offer to buy him a drink to make amends. He accepts but on one condition&emdash;that you do not have another Bor Brew!</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually the volcanic spur slopes back into the stinking mire, and once more you find yourselves ankle-deep in cold, black ooze. A chilling howl drifts across the swamp from the north, and for a few fleeting seconds, you can hear no scuttling, slithering, or any other small noise.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56"><link-text>Turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race to the end of the alley, turn the corner, and run across the quadrangle. Suddenly two monks on horseback trot out of the street ahead. You recognize them at once: they are the two monks you saw earlier&emdash;the two that took your horses. They shout a curse and draw their swords, riding straight towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Monks (on horseback)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, you may add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return along the road to the stone bridge and follow the canal eastwards to the River Phoen. A waterway has been constructed to allow river barges to enter the perimeter wall of Tharro. Here, a queue of passengers, who have just disembarked, are shuffling into the town through a narrow arch. Paido points to a group of horse traders who are herding their charges into the town. If you can tag along with them, perhaps you can gain entry to Tharro unchallenged.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to join the group of horse traders, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you choose not to risk entering Tharro this way, you will have to spend the night on the open plain; <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Even in the failing light, you can see that this trail is frequently used: the spongy vegetation is crushed flat, and a profusion of tracks are imprinted on the loamy soil. The tracks were made by man-sized creatures, bare-footed and web-toed. Close to the main trail winds another, less obvious, track. For some reason someone or something has gone to great lengths to keep this trail secret.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to follow the well-trodden trail, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to follow the secret trail, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The morning sky is filled with a sullen grey haze, and around you the tall plains grass undulates like a green sea, stirred to motion by a chill westerly breeze. The Great North Road cuts a straight line to the horizon with tracks that lead to cottages and farmsteads branching off at regular intervals. Sheep and cattle graze by the roadside, and the air is rich with the scents of the farmyard, flowers and damp grass.</p>
- <p><quote>We should reach Tharro by sundown,</quote> you comment, checking your position on the map.</p>
- <p><quote>Maybe,</quote> replies Paido, cautiously, and points to a menacing streak of blue-black cloud rolling across the skyline from the west. <quote>Just so long as we stay ahead of the storm.</quote></p>
- <p>By noon you have put thirty miles behind you but still have thirty more to ride before you reach the town of Tharro. Steadily the sky is darkening, and what began as fine drizzle has now developed into sheets of heavy rain. Both of you are drenched, and your horses are beginning to steam as they splash through the ankle-deep puddles that punctuate the muddy highway.</p>
- <p>Through the pall of rain, you see an inn on the banks of a stream, whose waters are greatly swollen by the storm. A wide stone bridge spans the rushing torrent, and a mill with a thatched roof stands close by.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you wish to stop at the inn, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to cross the bridge and seek shelter at the mill, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you choose to ignore your discomfort and ride on through the storm, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monks stare in horror at the smouldering remains of the Helghast. <quote>What manner of demon are you?</quote> asks one, with terror in his voice. <quote>He's a black sorcerer,</quote> says the monk at his side. <quote>A creature of darkness!</quote> shouts another.</p>
- <p>You sense that the monks were unaware of their leader's true identity. They believe you came here tonight to murder him, and his smoking remains convince them that you have accomplished your mission. Before you can utter a word, they draw short swords and rush at you like men possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Monks of the Sword</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to their state of frenzy, the monks are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">You may evade combat after three rounds by pulling yourself through the hatch; <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hysterical howls of the Ghagrim fill the night as you scramble through the foliage. By chance you stumble on to a track that skirts around the edge of the encampment and disappears to the north. It seems to be deserted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you wish to follow this track, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you decide to avoid it and rush into the undergrowth ahead, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect112-1-foot" idref="sect112-1">
- <p>If you wish to make a guess, you can go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect269">Section 269</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Good, good!</quote> he exclaims gleefully, twisting his droopy moustache as he paces the muddy road. <quote>Answer me this riddle. If a brick counter-balances three quarters of a pound plus three quarters of a brick, how many pounds does the whole brick weigh?</quote></p>
- <choice>If you can answer the old man's riddle,<a id="sect112-1" idref="sect112-1-foot" class="footnote" /> write down the solution and then turn to the entry with the same number as your answer.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you cannot answer the riddle, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Gaj aki-amaz!</quote> hisses the monk, pulling back the hood of his black robe. You gasp in shock as you stare upon a ghastly transformation. The monk's face is writhing and contorting as his skin tightens and grows darker. Tattered flesh drops from his sunken cheeks to hang in festoons beneath the exposed lower jaw. A snake-like tongue, black and narrow, flickers between curved fangs that have risen from the lower jaw.</p>
- <p>A sickening dread fills your heart as you recognize the creature standing before you. It is a Helghast, a nightmarish agent of the Darklords. Its demonic eyes glow like red-hot coals as it shrieks and raises its claw-tipped hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A strong aura of good emanates from the room above, and you suspect that it is a place of worship. However, this aura masks your ability to detect if the room is occupied or empty. The door ahead gives off no special aura.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to climb the stairs, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to open the door and enter, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hiss of the crossbow bolt is followed, almost instantaneously, by a terrible pain that paralyses your left arm. You are knocked over by the force of the missile and crack your head heavily on the sawdust-strewn floor: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Through a reddish haze, you see Paido draw a dagger and hurl it at the dwarf; it sinks into his black beard and sends him tumbling backwards. He reappears for an instant, desperately trying to dislodge the blade buried deep in his throat with his fingers, but he has suffered a fatal wound. He gurgles a death-cry and drops to the floor, his flailing arms bringing down a shelf full of bottles.</p>
- <p>Carefully Paido raises you to your feet, supporting your weight as you stagger to the stables. Your wounded arm is streaming blood, and with every passing second, you drift towards unconsciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic skill reveals that the pool is nothing but an illusion. What you can see is a gossamer-thin membrane, which reflects the light so convincingly that it appears like water. It is virtually impossible to detect that there is a creature lurking in the hole beneath.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to prod the <quote>water</quote> with a weapon, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you choose not to disturb the creature, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The archery range is a long and narrow room lit by torches set into the walls at regular intervals. At the far end are three targets bound with wire to bales of hay. Each target is the same size as the one you saw earlier, hanging behind the counter, but instead of rings, they each display the silhouette of a different creature: the left target shows a man; the centre one shows a wolf; and the right target shows a bear. You hand the owner your silver bow and he chooses three arrows from a rack on the wall. He praises the balance and fine workmanship of the bow as he draws the bowstring and takes aim at the centre target.</p>
- <p><quote>Head!</quote> he says, and releases the shaft. The arrow whistles to the target and sinks into the head of the wolf silhouette. <quote>Rump!</quote> he calls on the second shot, shooting the arrow exactly in the target's hind quarters. <quote>And now for the last,</quote> he says, taking care to load the bow correctly; <quote>the heart of the wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly he turns and fires. The arrow comes screaming towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Primate, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than ten steps when your sixth sense warns you that to go any further would be fatal. You whisper your suspicions to Paido, and he suggests that you leave the mine and continue your journey north. Wisdom conquers curiosity: you return to the entrance and press on.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152"><link-text>Turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All is deathly quiet as you set your empty tankard on the table. A few minutes pass and you notice that the passengers are no longer regarding you with suspicion. Instead, their stares seem complimentary, as if they were admiring you for being able to drink an ale as strong as Bor Brew.</p>
- <p>Paido raises his tankard and takes a great mouthful of the ale of his choice&emdash;Ferina Nog. Immediately he spits it out, wiping away its insipid taste on the back of his hand. <quote>Bilge juice!</quote> he splutters, slamming down his mug.</p>
- <p><quote>You should be a sight more careful where you empty your mouth stranger,</quote> growls a man seated to your right. He bends down and picks up his pointed steel helmet. With a slow and deliberate twist of his wrist he empties it of ale, pouring the contents all over Paido's feet. Your companion curses and reaches instinctively for his sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to take action to stop a fight breaking out, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you choose to do nothing, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An old wooden board, nailed across the entrance to the shaft, warns you to stay away. This silver mine was closed down shortly after the main tunnel collapsed. Twenty miners were buried alive and their names are carved into the pit props that surround the entrance to the shaft as a memorial. As you scan the list of names you hear the tap of a hammer breaking stone in the depths of the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to enter the mine, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to leave the mine and continue your journey north, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido's coma deepens. Shortly after midnight, his heart and brain cease to function and he slips painlessly into death. Grief fills your senses and you mourn the loss of your brave companion, but your grief soon turns to anger as you remember the foul trickery that ended his life and so nearly put an end to yours.</p>
- <p>A rage grows within you. You take Paido's sword and vow to avenge his death by washing it in the blood of his murderers. Heedless of caution and the warning cry of your senses, you throw open the cellar door and go in search of vengeance.</p>
- <p>You have taken only a few paces along the corridor when a terrific explosion lifts you off your feet. The monks followed your trail to the cellar and prepared a surprise for you. You have tripped a wire and activated an explosive charge set into the floor. When the monks come to inspect their handiwork, they will discover your remains lying in the rubble.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sudden thud of metal on wood makes you spin round on your heel. Nestling between two kegs of ale on the tavern counter you glimpse the face of the innkeeper, the stock of a heavy crossbow pressed close to his bearded cheek. He growls a curse and tightens his finger around the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If the total is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than a hundred yards along this jetty of volcanic rock, you encounter a cloud of choking marsh gas. A pair of green, spindly limbed creatures sits on the causeway, dangling their legs over the side and sniffing the stinking cloud with apparent delight. When they see you approaching they hiss and bare their fangs menacingly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A pair of green, spindly limbed creatures sit on the<br />causeway, sniffing the stinking cloud with delight</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to approach these creatures, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to return to the junction and take the west spur, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you have a Fireseed and wish to scare them with it, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hanging around the dead man's neck on a silver chain is a medallion, cast in the shape of a flaming broadsword. The sound of footsteps in the next room prompts you to leave it untouched and hurry after Paido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow sinks deep into the Ghagrim's thick neck, bringing it crashing to the ground. It tries to lift itself but is trodden underfoot by another of its kin, who snatches up the iron sword and licks the blade before yelling its battle-cry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you have another arrow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you wish to engage the Ghagrim with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to evade its attack, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect126-1-foot" idref="sect126-1">
- <p>If you wish to make a guess, you can go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect141">Section 141</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bargee brings a round of Chai-cheer to your table and you drink to the health of Queen Evaine of Talestria. The mood soon becomes much friendlier and you learn that the soldier, whose name is Trost, is on his way back to his post at the Tharro garrison after enjoying a week's leave with his family in Phoena.</p>
- <p>As you drink your ale, the sound of applause rises above the hubbub of conversation. An elderly man, tall and distinguished-looking, walks slowly to the centre of the floor and bows to his audience. His pale face and silver-grey hair are a stark contrast to his richly embroidered robes of crimson and gold. He smiles warmly and introduces himself as Count Conundrum, the prince of puzzles. For your amusement, he will pose some brain-twisting conundrums. So confident is he that none will be able to answer his riddles correctly that he is offering 20 Lune to anyone who can prove him wrong. A hush descends as the passengers await his first puzzle.</p>
- <p><quote>If one-and-a-half geese lay one-and-a-half eggs in one-and-a-half days, how many eggs will three geese lay in eight days?</quote></p>
- <choice>If you can answer the Count's riddle, turn to the entry with the same number as your answer.<a id="sect126-1" idref="sect126-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you cannot answer the riddle, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you near the stream, a dozen mounted warriors appear, the pounding hooves of their jet-black horses churning the water as they race along the gully to your left. Their leader, clad in a fearsome bronze helm, draws his axe&emdash;it is the signal to charge. With a blood-curdling yell, they sweep up the rocky bank and come thundering towards the track.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect127.gif" width="295" height="179" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect127.pdf" width="295" height="179" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to draw a weapon and meet them head-on, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to evade them, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Leave us,</quote> commands the black-robed figure, <quote>and summon the brothers.</quote></p>
- <p>The refectory door slams shut, and you hear the sound of a metal bar being drawn. There is a hiss of steel against leather as Paido unsheathes his sword. He levels the blue blade at the sinister monk and narrows his cat-like eyes. <quote>What do you want with us?</quote> he says, his voice sharp and threatening. But the monk offers no reply. He stands motionless, his eyes fixed firmly on you. Paido repeats his demand, but his voice sounds weaker. The sword trembles in his hand and, with a groan, he collapses, scattering plates and cutlery as he hits the table and rolls to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After your encounter with the Taan-spider, you are both in need of a rest. You stop to recover your strength; you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Paido is optimistic that you will reach the temple by sundown if you can avoid encountering any more of the Danarg's hostile inhabitants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the creaky stairs that lead to the front door and rap the wrought-iron knocker. The door squeaks open slowly and you are greeted by what appears to be a bundle of rags and hair. After staring at it for a few moments, you realize with disbelief that the ill-smelling mound before you is alive. The hair parts and a face appears, crevassed with dirt-encased wrinkles. <quote>What do you want?</quote> croaks the old woman, grinning a yellow, mirthless grin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you have met Jako, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses reveal that Paido's sword is magical&emdash;it has the power to kill the enemy you now face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">To retrieve this weapon and use it against the Helghast, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The numbness in your arm spreads rapidly across your chest and up your throat. Your vocal chords are frozen, making it impossible to shout for Paido's help. You must act swiftly before your lungs and heart are affected by the powerful anaesthetic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you wish to plunge your hand into the pool of water, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you wish to slam your palm against the tree, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you have a Fireseed and wish to crush it with the palm of your hand, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more the Count repeats his conundrum. He allows his audience to ponder on it for a few more minutes, but still no answer is offered. Finally he pockets the silver box and declares his puzzling at an end. At first the crowd groan in disappointment, but they are quick to show their appreciation by applauding loudly when the Count leaves the hold. <quote>Honey Lodge!</quote> shouts the bargee. <quote>Five minutes to Honey Lodge.</quote> A group of farmers gather up their belongings, say farewell to their travelling companions and begin to climb the tap-room stairs as the barge slows to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to go up on deck and watch them disembark, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you prefer to stay in the tap-room, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sword strikes you squarely between the shoulder blades, sending you tumbling from the saddle. You fall awkwardly, driving the blade deeper into your back. For countless seconds you lie staring at the sky, unable to move, feeling nothing. Before the anaesthesia of shock wears off you are surrounded by enemies who show no mercy.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun is setting as you catch your first glimpse of Tharro on the road ahead. Mud-coloured walls, tall and fortified, surround the houses which sit atop a broad grassy rise known as Fortress Hill. Soldiers in tunics of scarlet and grey patrol the walls and stand guard at the huge wooden doors that grant access to the town's south quarter.</p>
- <p>You ride along the straight dirt road towards a stone bridge, which arches across a man-made canal encircling the hill. Once over the bridge, you pass up a ramp leading to the gatehouse. At the gate, a square-jawed soldier in silver chainmail demands to know your business before he will allow you entry to the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to show him your Pass, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you do not wish to show him your Pass, or no longer have it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the stream until it enters a long corridor of towering trees that descend towards the bank of a swift-flowing brook, a tributary of the River Syad. You stop here briefly to bathe your faces in the icy water and to stare at the mass of blue-green giant trees that fill the western horizon.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect136.gif" width="150" height="172" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect136.pdf" width="150" height="172" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>The Mordril Forest,</quote> says Paido, a note of trepidation in his voice. <quote>It was once a wondrous forest, a place of light and goodness. The trees grew strong and the birds and beasts were the fairest of any forest breed. But the Mordril has grown dark and dismal of late. The Danarg encroaches, feeding its sickness to the soil and poisoning the saplings and the creatures that dwell there still. It is a doomed forest, doomed to become part of the Danarg swamp.</quote></p>
- <p>You remount your horse and cross the brook. As you climb the opposite bank you notice a set of freshly made tracks in the soft earth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you do not have this skill, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man spins around in shocked alarm at the sound of your voice. An instant later Paido appears at his back and hits him at the base of the skull with the edge of his open hand. The man grunts and drops heavily to his knees before keeling over the edge of the platform. With a dull splash, he lands face down atop a mound of manure and rotting vegetation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to search the mill, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you choose to leave the mill and continue your ride north before the man regains consciousness, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sense of time slips away as you trek through the seemingly endless expanse of bleak grey trees. Slowly you become aware that you are on an incline, and as your passage becomes steeper, you notice large outcrops of pitted volcanic rock.</p>
- <p><quote>We're approaching the Danarg crater,</quote> says Paido, his quietly spoken words echoing loudly through the eerie forest. Suddenly you recall the words of Lord Rimoah during your period of preparation in Elzian: <quote>The Danarg occupies the crater of an ancient and massive volcano. Once it was a lush jungle of fertile vegetation, but now it is a cancerous wound that poisons all who dwell there&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>By noon you have climbed to the lip of the crater and begun your descent. Gradually the tall, straight trees of the Mordril Forest thin out giving way to twisted trunks and stunted saplings as the land sinks deeper and deeper. Imperceptibly the forest ends and the swamp begins. The ground is softer, and tall, black rushes appear in clumps around misty pools of stagnant water. From tortured husks of trees hang thorny vines, as tough and as cruel as sharpened steel wire. So thickly are they entwined around some trees that they have strangled them, leaving empty coils where the trunks have rotted away. The stench of decay fills your nostrils in the humid yet cold air.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect138.gif" width="212" height="117" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect138.pdf" width="212" height="117" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You wade through ankle-deep slime for nearly an hour before reaching the edge of a huge, murky pool. Whirls and eddies disturb its surface, warning of the creatures that lurk below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to skirt around this pool to the north, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you wish to skirt around it to the south, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The merchant grins delightedly as he pockets your gold. You take the Grey Crystal Ring from the display case and slip it on to the index finger of your right hand. It fits perfectly.</p>
- <p>Mark this Grey Crystal Ring as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you wish to dispose of any Special Items (with the exception of the Ring you have just purchased) the merchant will pay you 8 Gold Crowns for each item you sell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">To leave the shop and continue, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reel back from the edge, blocking Paido, who is following close on your heels. Your swift reaction has saved you both from falling to certain doom in the chasm. Shaken, you turn away from the edge and follow the track instead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229"><link-text>Turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect141-1-foot" idref="sect141-1">
- <p>If you wish to make a guess, you can go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect338">Section 338</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> says Count Conundrum. <quote>Just to make our journey to Tharro a little more interesting, if there is anyone here who can answer my next puzzle correctly they will receive from me forty Lune.</quote> A chorus of delighted whisperings emanates from the crowd.</p>
- <p><quote>In winter,</quote> he begins, <quote>the ice-lilies of Lake Adon double in area every twenty-four hours. It takes sixty days from the time the first ice-lily appears until the lake is completely covered with them. On what day is the lake half covered with lilies?</quote></p>
- <choice>If you can answer the ice-lily riddle, turn to the entry with the same number as your answer.<a id="sect141-1" idref="sect141-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you cannot answer the riddle, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that it will be impossible to cross the quicksands before nightfall. Even if you were to find the sanctuary of firm ground and camp there overnight, there is no knowing what horrors lurk on the desolate plain. The quicksands themselves are as treacherous as the creatures they harbour. What may be firm ground at night can be transformed into a fathomless bog by morning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you wish to heed your senses and avoid this bog, you can return to the junction and take the west spur by <link-text>turning to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you choose to risk crossing this wasteland, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>What do you want 'ere?</quote> growls a guard, suddenly appearing from the shadows of the archway to challenge you with his spear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you have a Pass and wish to show it to the guard, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you wish to ask him the way to the garrison commander's quarters, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you choose to evade confrontation by galloping away along the street, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow beheads the evil warlord, sending the great bronze helm spinning skywards. The sight of him slain in such a way shakes the morale of his men, and they break off their attack abruptly, wheeling their horses about and galloping away in disorder. <quote>Let's fly,</quote> shouts Paido, waving his sword darkened by the blood of the Drakkarim, <quote>before they regroup and attack again.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect136">You sheathe your weapon and follow Paido as he leaves the track and rides along the stream to the west. <link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dwarf draws two flagons of ale and a brace of wheat cakes from the counter. <quote>That'll be fifteen Lune, all told,</quote> he says, pushing two carved wooden platters with their mouthwatering cargoes a little closer. You flick open your Belt Pouch and take out four Crowns.</p>
- <p><quote>This should cover it,</quote> you say, sliding the gold coins across the bar. He tests them between his teeth before nodding his approval.</p>
- <p><quote>No offence t'you two gentlemen, y'understand, but I've been caught with snide coinage afore an' it's made me a might careful like. These be Dessi mint, if I'm not mistaken?</quote> he enquires, his eye twinkling at the thought of hearing tales of that distant magical land.</p>
- <p><quote>Could be,</quote> says Paido, guardedly. <quote>The coins of Magnamund mix freely in Garthen's markets&emdash;there's no telling when those four last saw their birthplace.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How about you, innkeeper?</quote> you interrupt, steering conversation away from Dessi. <quote>You're no native Talestrian. When did you last see your homeland?</quote> The dwarf's face beams as he prepares to talk on his favourite subject&emdash;himself. By the time you have finished your food and ale you have heard the life story of Lardin, son of Kardon of Bor.</p>
- <p><quote>What news have you of Luukos?</quote> asks Paido, as the dwarf takes a rare pause for breath.</p>
- <p><quote>News of a kind that's becomin' only too familiar round these parts,</quote> he replies in a disgruntled tone. <quote>But that Zegron's bitten off more than he can chew this time. Once Lord Adamas an' the army boys come down on 'im he'll wish he'd stayed in his stinkin' city o' Xanar, mark my words.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Don't be too sure o' that, Lardin,</quote> says a rosy-faced farmer, who has sidled along the bar to within earshot of your conversation. <quote>My sister reckons that this time Zegron won't stop till he's flattened everything between Luukos and the Tentarias.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>That star-gazin' sister o' yours is full o' good news,</quote> retorts the dwarf. <quote>When 'as she ever seen anything cheerful with 'er telescopes an' charts an' crystal balls, eh? Answer me that!</quote> Agreement rumbles from the tavern crowd, now openly listening to the discussion.</p>
- <p><quote>That's as maybe,</quote> says the farmer. <quote>But when 'as she ever been wrong, eh?</quote> An uncomfortable silence fills the inn, and slowly the crowd return to their own business. No one, least of all the innkeeper, chooses to dwell on the matter any further.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you wish to ask the farmer where his sister lives, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you decide to leave the tavern and continue your journey to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You muster all your strength to fight the deadly poison which has infiltrated your blood. Your improved power of Curing suppresses the pain and slows the progress of the insidious toxin, enabling you to face your would-be assassin. A flicker of surprise registers in the cold, black eyes of your opponent as you stagger to your feet and unsheathe your weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">Lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are welcomed by an attractive young woman with long, jet-black hair, woven into a single plait that reaches almost to her waist. She is dressed in a green suede-cloth tunic, similar to your own, and wears soft, calf-skin gloves. In addition to the maps, which she researches and draws herself, she also sells all manner of hunting and scouting equipment. She takes an obvious delight in her work and shows you samples of her maps, which are excellent for their accuracy and attention to detail. You ask her if she has ever prepared a map of the Danarg and she turns strangely silent. Tears begin to fill her dark eyes as she recalls how she and her father once explored beyond the fringes of that fearsome domain. They had planned to map its internal waterways and, if luck was with them, discover the lost temple of the Elder Magi. With sadness she tells of her father's death in the jaws of a monster that had stalked them from the moment they had entered the jungle-swamp. She escaped but not unscathed. As she fought to free her father from the mouth of the beast she was badly burned by its caustic saliva. Carefully she removes one of her calf-skin gloves and reveals an injured hand. The sight of the angry red scar tissue fills you with compassion for this brave young woman.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The young woman shows you her maps and<br />with sadness tells of her father's death</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="698" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="698" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to question her further about the Danarg, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to bid her good evening and leave the shop, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Discipline reveals to your experienced eye that these fruits are not what they appear. The tree is dead and incapable of producing fruit. They are carnivorous animals that have taken on the outward appearance of juicy ripe fruits in order to snare the unwary.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you wish to attack one of these <quote>fruits</quote>, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you choose not to disturb them, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The old man steps aside, nursing his injured pride. <quote>Teach these upstarts a lesson they'll never forget!</quote> he shouts, his command ringing in your ears. Without saying a word you and Paido spur your horses to a trot and move rapidly towards the villagers. They had not expected this. Several of them lower their forks and staves and shift nervously in the line.</p>
- <p><quote>Go!</quote> shouts Paido and, in a matter of seconds, you have broken through to the clear road beyond. For all their arrogance, the villagers and their vain old mayor are no match for two combat-hardened fighters. You leave the village of Stia without loss or injury and continue your journey north to Tharro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stop at noon to rest and review your progress. The starguider's homing signal has strengthened steadily, and Paido is optimistic that you will reach the temple before sundown if you can keep up your present pace. So far you have avoided the Danarg's more hostile inhabitants, but invisible dangers still lurk all around, waiting for you to lower your guard. You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">To continue, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hold is crowded with travellers on their way north. For most it is a regular journey home after selling their wares in Phoena. Their purses are full and their mood is friendly as they pass the time drinking and playing games of chance.</p>
- <p>One of the crew glances up from serving and, wiping his hands on his apron, hurries over to welcome you to the floating tavern. He points to a plank table at the far end of the hold that is bowed beneath the weight of several kegs of ale and platters of food. He asks if you would care for some refreshment.</p>
- <p><quote>Two jugs of ale,</quote> replies Paido, reaching for his pouch of crowns.</p>
- <p><quote>Certainly, sir,</quote> replies the bargee, in a servile tone. <quote>I have three fine ales to delight your palates&emdash;Ferina Nog, Chai-cheer, and Bor Brew.</quote></p>
- <p>Paido chooses a jug of Ferina Nog. Which ale will you choose?</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you choose Ferina Nog, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you choose Chai-cheer, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you choose Bor Brew, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track continues along the rock-strewn valley floor through a thicket of stunted trees and climbs slowly towards a ridge of hills, their peaks worn smooth by countless years of wind and harsh weather. You stop briefly at a babbling stream to allow your horses to drink, and your rumbling stomach reminds you that you are hungry and in need of food. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When the horses have quenched their thirst, you continue your climb to the ridge. You soon reach the crest and stare down on a sight that sends a shiver down your spine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24"><link-text>Turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you look all around, your eyes come to rest on a large cask, one of many that line the opposite wall. However, whereas all the others have small puddles of ale on the ground beneath their wooden taps, the large cask in the middle is perfectly clean, as if it had never been used. You twist the wooden tap, but instead of a stream of ale pouring out, there is a dull click, and the entire circular front of the cask swings open to reveal a secret portal and a stairway descending into darkness.</p>
- <p>You exchange glances with Paido and then follow him as he makes his descent into the unknown.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A blinding pain rips through your chest, making you scream out. The room spins before your eyes as you gasp for air, and the pain drags you to the floor. Suddenly you feel no more&emdash;the pain has gone and with it the last beat of your punctured heart.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great snake flicks its tongue and lunges forward, intent on consuming you both in its massive jaws.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Silver Swamp Python</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the swiftness of its attack, you do not have time to use a bow. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Primate, double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during the combat, due to the snake's venomous bite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect156-1-foot" idref="sect156-1">
- <p>If you possess either herb, you may now use it to cure the korovax infection.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that your wound has become infected with korovax bacillus, which infest the soil of northern Talestria. Talestrian korovax is a virulent disease&emdash;only your Kai skill is delaying its swift and terrible effect. Unless you treat the wound within two days with Tincture of Oxydine or Oede herb, the muscles of your chest wall will suffer uncontrollable spasms. Then the inability to control your breathing will kill you within minutes.<a id="sect156-1" idref="sect156-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Owing to loss of blood you must now reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by a further 6 points before continuing your ride to Tharro.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the top of the stairs you pass through a curtained archway and step into a large prayer hall. A central aisle separates the pews of white wood, which face a golden pulpit with a facia shaped to resemble a flaming sword. Carefully you rest Paido on a pew and examine the glass vial you found in the kitchen. Your fears and suspicions are soon confirmed&emdash;it contains poison. The clear, sticky fluid is sap from the gnadurn tree, a substance used frequently by assassins because of its lack of flavour or scent. The monks must have put some of this poison in the food that Paido unwittingly consumed. The sap is deadly, and you must act quickly if you are to save your companion's life.</p>
- <p>You hear the sound of running feet and the growl of dogs off the leash at the bottom of the stairs. Once more you shoulder your burden, carrying Paido towards the far end of the hall in search of an exit. Behind a drawn curtain you discover a door, but it is locked and bolted from the other side. The noise of your pursuers grows louder as they climb the stairs to the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach the rank of Tutelary, you can:</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">hide in the pulpit&emdash;<link-text>turn to 96</link-text>;</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">hide among the pews&emdash;<link-text>turn to 198</link-text>;</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">or stand in the central aisle and await your pursuers&emdash;<link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you fight, the Vordak succeeds in driving its black steel sword through the side of the ship's pressure tank. A blast of liquid gas hisses from the hole, freezing the Vordak in its petrifying spray. From above comes a stream of blue fire that ignites the escaping gas. There is a flash, and in a fraction of a second, the Levitron is transformed into a colossal ball of flame.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The numbing cold robs you of the speed and strength needed to fight this evil enemy: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a wave of heat awakens your senses. Paido has summoned fire to his aid, wafting a sheet of flame down upon the spiders that are closing in for the kill. They flare brightly, their legs withering in the flames, their crackling black bodies dropping to the floor and crumbling to dust. Kezoor shrieks in frustration. He draws his sword before his face and mouths a silent spell of protection before lowering his blade and pointing it towards your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kezoor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. You may reduce by half any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during the combat as Paido fights by your side, receiving half Kezoor's blows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Xlorg gurgles its last breath and falls dead, writhing briefly in the mud before becoming still with an uncanny abruptness. You turn to Paido and drag him away from the pool's edge, where his bleeding arm is attracting a crawling horde of hungry leeches.</p>
- <p>You leave the pool and press on along the muddy trail, glancing back once. No sign remains of the dead Xlorg; their bodies have already been claimed by the creatures of the pool.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192"><link-text>Turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Summon the brothers!</quote> commands the menacing figure in black. You draw an arrow and fire, felling one of the brown-robed monks as they rush to the door. The other escapes, slamming shut the door as he hurries to obey his master's order.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to fire your bow at the remaining black-robed monk, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to shoulder your bow and attack him with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you wish to demand that he lets you leave the temple, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow glances off the leader's bronze helmet and arcs harmlessly into the sky. He screams a madman's yell of delight, his evil eyes twinkling through the slits in his visor, as he steers his horse straight towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Horselord</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido leaps to your side, his hands weaving a strange pattern in the air. <quote>Anun-kadrusa!</quote> he cries, and a wave of shimmering heat courses from his open palms. The club explodes, and the dwarf reels back in shock as slivers of glowing wood set his hair alight.</p>
- <p><quote>Agh! I'm on fire!</quote> he screams, and scurries on all fours through the door like a frightened boar.</p>
- <p><quote>Sorcerers!</quote> exclaims the startled tavern crowd as they stampede towards the main door, overturning benches and tables in their desperation to escape. In the ensuing turmoil, the innkeeper is nowhere to be seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your speed and accuracy with a bow puts paid to the hunting dogs in a matter of seconds. They fall and tumble dead at your feet, your deadly arrows sunk deep in their chests. Then through the archway come their masters, a dozen angry monks each clutching a sword. You have not enough arrows to dispatch them all as they charge headlong down the central aisle.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Monks of the Sword</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dwarf stops hammering. <quote>Is that you, Filcher?</quote> he asks, squinting along the tunnel. When he realizes you are not Filcher, he curses and hurls his mattock at your head. You duck aside, but the pick-like weapon spins past and catches Paido full in the chest. He screams and falls, dying, at your feet. Desperately you try to save him, but the wound is fatal. Anger wells up inside, and you turn to confront his killer, only to find yourself staring into the muzzle of a Bor musket. The dwarf pulls the trigger, and you are decapitated by the blast.</p>
- <p>It may be some consolation to learn that your killer did not escape unpunished. The shock wave of the blast brought down the tunnel ceiling and buried him alive.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trost swallows the last drop of ale and turns his head to see what is attracting your attention. He catches sight of the new passenger and begins to choke.</p>
- <p><quote>By the stars!</quote> he hisses. <quote>It's him &ellips; it's Kezoor the Necromancer!</quote> He pulls a crumpled scroll from within his tunic and unfurls it on the table. On it is a picture of a man's face&emdash;the cruel features bear an uncanny resemblance to those of the stranger. Beneath the picture you read:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><strong>Notice of Death</strong></p>
- <p>Kezoor the Necromancer</p>
- <p>Renegade Shaman of Mogaruith.<br />Leader of the forbidden sect of Dazudskul.</p>
- <p>It is hereby proclaimed by lawful authority that in just retribution for vile acts of black sorcery perpetrated throughout the Freelands of Talestria, a bounty of TEN THOUSAND LUNE is offered for the head of Kezoor the Necromancer.</p>
- <p class="right">By order of Queen Evaine of Talestria<br />MS 5060</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p><quote>This could be our chance to make a fortune,</quote> whispers Trost. <quote>Help me take him and we'll split the reward. Agreed?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to help Trost attack the necromancer, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you refuse to help him, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly the great snake accepts defeat and slips silently back to its murky lair beneath the vines and floating vegetation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The building turns out to be a bowyery, stocked with some of the finest archery equipment you have ever seen. Myriad types of arrows, quivers, bracers, wrist and finger guards, bowstrings and bow cases fill the racks from floor to ceiling. A colourful ringed target hangs on the wall behind the counter, and on it are painted the prices of the goods for sale. You read:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>ARROWS&emdash;2 Lune</li>
- <li>BOWS&emdash;32 Lune</li>
- <li>QUIVERS (empty)&emdash;12 Lune</li>
- <li>WRIST AND FINGER GUARDS&emdash;8 Lune</li>
- <li>BOW CASES (wood)&emdash;20 Lune</li>
- <li>BOW CASES (leather)&emdash;12 Lune</li>
- <li>BOWSTRINGS&emdash;4 Lune</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may purchase any of the above equipment, using Gold Crowns to pay for the items if you wish (1 Gold Crown = 4 Lune). A quiver holds a maximum of six arrows, and to carry more than six arrows you will need to purchase an extra quiver. Bow cases, finger and wrist guards, and bowstrings are all Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess the Silver Bow of Duadon, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you do not possess this Special Item, you may leave the bowyery and continue; <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you climb the steps to the prow, a Vordak lunges at your head with its black staff. You duck, and a splash of blue sparks showers your tunic as the tip of the staff shears through the metal hand-rail. You strike, driving your weapon into the creature's chest and sending it toppling backwards over the side. At the same time a sudden blow strikes your shoulder, knocking you flat on your back. You are stunned and lose a grip of your weapon. You look up to see your attacker leaping from the top of the stairs, his clawed, skeletal fingers hooked to rend your flesh.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You are now unarmed. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by a further 2 points for the duration of the combat. The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retrace your route through Topham, past the abbey and water-mill, and follow the track westwards to the Great North Road. The hours spent in the saddle have made you tired and hungry&emdash;you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">To continue your ride to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In an instant Paido is by your side, his sword unsheathed and levelled at the monks. <quote>Summon the brothers!</quote> commands the one in black. The others leave through the open door, slamming it shut behind them as they run to obey their master's order.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to attack the remaining monk, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you wish to demand that he lets you leave the temple unharmed, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you approach the huts, using your Kai hunting skills to muffle the sound of your passage through the foliage. Unfortunately Paido is unused to such woodcraft. He fails to see a clutch of dried twigs on the ground before him, and they crack loudly under his foot. You freeze in your tracks, your eyes fixed on the huts ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ale is weak and watery but serves to quench your thirst. Paido takes a great mouthful and immediately spits it out in disgust, wiping away its insipid taste on the sleeve of his tunic. <quote>Bilge juice!</quote> he splutters, slamming down his mug.</p>
- <p><quote>You should be a sight more careful where you empty your mouth, stranger,</quote> growls a man seated to your right. He bends down and picks up his polished steel helmet. With a slow and deliberate twist of his wrist he empties it of ale, pouring the contents all over Paido's feet. Your companion curses and reaches instinctively for his sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to take action to stop a fight breaking out, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you choose to do nothing, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monks appear upset by your refusal to eat. They whisper to each other and cast anxious glances at your untouched plate. Paido is busy eating his stew, smiling delightedly as he fills his empty stomach. The monks hurry out of the refectory and return minutes later in the company of an elderly man dressed in a hooded black robe. He carries a staff of plain black iron.</p>
- <p><quote>Has the Vakeros eaten?</quote> he asks, his voice strangely cold and monotonal.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, master,</quote> the monks reply, <quote>but the Kai lord refused.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually the causeway descends into the stinking mire, delivering you back to the ankle-deep ooze. A chilling howl drifts across the swamp from the north, and for a few fleeting seconds, all the scuttling and slithering and other small noises cannot be heard.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56"><link-text>Turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido heeds your shout and dives to the floor. The dwarf appears, the crossbow pressed to his cheek as he readies himself to fire. His finger tightens around the trigger, and the straining metal drawstring propels its deadly charge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When Paido finally climbs down from the tree, his face betrays his anxiety. <quote>What is wrong?</quote> you ask impatiently.</p>
- <p><quote>There is no signal,</quote> he replies. <quote>I have scanned every direction with the starguider, but it can detect no korlinium signal. It isn't damaged, of that I'm sure. It's simply as if the temple has disappeared.</quote></p>
- <p>You take the device from Paido's hand and climb the twisted tree trunk. He shouts instructions and you set the starguider into operation, scanning the distant horizon and waiting for the tell-tale click that will reveal the direction of the lost temple of the Elder Magi. But Paido is right&emdash;there is no signal; and without a signal there is no hope of finding the Lorestone of Ohrido.</p>
- <p>You are about to abandon the search and jump down from the tree when you see something on the northern horizon that you hadn't noticed before. An island of red volcanic rock rises out of the mire, one of four flat-topped islands grouped in a diamond close to the eastern edge of the crater. Perhaps the temple is on the other side of that island. Perhaps that is why the starguider will emit no signal?</p>
- <p>You climb down and ask Paido what he thinks. He stares to the north and ponders the problem. <quote>Yes, it is possible,</quote> he says thoughtfully, <quote>it is just possible.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect292"><link-text>Turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your force yourself to swallow the potion and to stay conscious long enough for it to take effect. Gradually you feel your strength returning. The pain and nausea disappear and your limbs stop their uncontrollable shivering as the potion and your latent Kai skill neutralize the toxin in your blood.</p>
- <p>Now you use your skill to try to save your companion's life. Placing your hands on his chest, you transfer the warmth of your healing power into Paido's poisoned body, breaking down the toxin by degrees. The treatment is slow and laborious, and it is dawn of the following day before you know for sure if your skill has saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the book contains details of acts and rituals that are wholly evil. It is an unholy book, but one which is not protected by a curse or trap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to examine it now that you are sure it is safe to do so, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you choose not to look at this evil book, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the soldiers snatches your Pass and gives it a cursory glance. Even the presence of Lord Adamas' seal does little to impress him. <quote>Shieldwarden Nehdra is visiting Syada,</quote> he says. <quote>He's not due back till tomorrow. You'll have to wait till then t'see him.</quote></p>
- <p>He hands back your Pass and returns to his post. <quote>Come,</quote> says Paido, <quote>let's find ourselves a roof for the night. We can come back tomorrow if need be.</quote></p>
- <p>You nod your agreement and follow Paido as he descends the hill track leading back into the town. At the quadrangle you decide to stop at the Temple of the Sword and enquire about a room for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Honey Lodge!</quote> shouts the bargee. <quote>Five minutes to Honey Lodge!</quote> A group of farmers near you gather up their belongings, say farewell to their travelling companions and begin climbing the tap-room stairs as the barge slows to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you wish to go up on the deck and watch them disembark, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you prefer to stay in the tap-room, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You load, aim and fire in a split second, sending your arrow whistling into the mottled underbelly of a swamp creature to your left. Croaking in pain, it twists and falls backwards, churning the pool to a bubbling brown froth as it frantically tries to grip the shaft between its webbed claws. A green-eyed serpent breaks through the surface and embraces the creature in its coils. The struggle is brief and the swamp water stifles all cries as the serpent and its victim sink swiftly from view.</p>
- <p>The sight of the serpent distracts you, and you do not see the lizard-beast that is creeping up on you from the side until it is leaping through the air towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect183-1-foot" idref="sect183-1">
- <p>It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>This deadly, shape-changing servant of the Darklords cannot be killed with a normal weapon. Your only hope of defeating it is to fight it using Paido's sword, a blade forged by the Elder Magi in the furnaces of Elzian.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnaag Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained by your enemy in the first round of combat, as you are stooping to unsheathe Paido's sword from its scabbard when combat begins. This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><a id="sect183-1" idref="sect183-1-foot" class="footnote" /> by 2 points at the beginning of every round you fight this creature. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, you may increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sight of Paido being forced back into a corner by the loathsome spiders makes you fire as soon as you glimpse your target. The arrow flies true, but a hapless passenger runs across its path. He screams as the arrow clips his shoulder. It is only a flesh wound, but your shot has been deflected; it sinks harmlessly into the tap-room wall. You curse your bad luck and shoulder your bow in favour of a hand weapon. The necromancer senses the threat you pose and turns to face you, his hands weaving a pattern in the air. Suddenly you are literally frozen in your tracks. Frost sparkles on your hair and clothing, and ice sheens your eyes. Your breath comes in misty clouds as you labour to stay conscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer your horse away from the track and gallop through a tangle of briars and bracken bordering the stream. Your ambushers follow in pursuit, the thunder of their horses' hooves and the clank of their armour echoing in your ears. It is a desperate chase, but the rough terrain works in your favour. After a while your pursuers pull back and cease the chase, they have decided to go in search of easier pickings&emdash;to harass the refugees fleeing from Syada.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You close your eyes, and summon the power of your Discipline. Drawing on your psychic reserve, you project a mental barrier to deflect the attack. Instantly the pressure in your head decreases and the pain subsides, releasing your senses from the icy paralysis of psychic shock.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the attack breaks off, the abruptness of its passing leaving you reeling. As you open your eyes, you see at once the reason why the attack has ceased.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The membrane and the tendril hold your weapon in a vice-like grip, and you are forced to abandon it for fear of the tendril coiling around your arm. You watch in anger and frustration as a good weapon is crushed to useless splinters. (Delete this weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stable both horses and investigate the mouth-watering smell of freshly baked wheat cakes that wafts from the doorway of the inn. <quote>Welcome,</quote> hails a friendly voice as you cross the threshold. <quote>Come in and dry yourselves by the fire.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A black-bearded dwarf, with an equally black patch<br />covering his right eye, stands behind the counter</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="690" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="690" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A black-bearded dwarf, with an equally black patch covering his right eye, stands behind the counter, his barrel-like body obscured from the chest down. <quote>Perhaps you two gentlemen would care for some fare?</quote> With an open sweep of his hands he draws your attention to the plates of cakes and kegs of ale that are spread along the bar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to buy some food and ale, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you choose to dry yourself before the fire, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you wish to engage the dwarf in conversation, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look up to see a squadron of black-winged Kraan swooping down on the Levitron. On the backs of these leathery creatures ride red-robed Vordaks, hideous servants of the Darklords of Helgedad. In their skeletal hands they wield staves of black iron which crackle with blue fire. As a Kraan screams past, a stream of liquid blue flame pours from its rider's staff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Your futile quest is over, mortal,</quote> says the hooded man, his emotionless voice like a spike stabbing at your mind. Instinctively you reach to your weapon, but your hand begins to shake&emdash;you cannot control your fingers. You glance at Paido to see that he, too, is shivering uncontrollably. Suddenly a wave of pain tears at your stomach and your legs buckle. You groan in agony and drop to your knees, clutching at your burning stomach. Paido lets out a scream of anguish and falls unconscious at your side. You cannot but envy his oblivion as the terrible pain courses through your body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you do not have this skill or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump to your feet and scan the room, your weapon poised to strike down any would-be attacker. Fortunately the place is empty, the cooks having been summoned to the refectory. You sheathe your weapon, lift Paido across your shoulder, and run towards an open door at the far end of the kitchen. As you pass a steaming cauldron of stew you catch sight of a stoppered vial of clear liquid. You stop to pocket the vial (remember to mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) before running through the door and into the corridor beyond. At the end of the corridor is a wooden door and a staircase that ascends to the floor above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to open the door and enter, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to climb the stairs, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tend to Paido's wound, using your basic Kai knowledge of healing to prevent an infection from taking hold, before continuing deeper into the swamp. The ankle-deep ooze that borders the pool gives way to firmer ground, and you arrive shortly at a place where a tree bearing blood-red fruit overhangs a pool of clear water. You stop here to rest and dislodge the tiny leeches that are feasting on your legs.</p>
- <p>Paido climbs the tree to scan the horizon. He carries with him a starguider, a homing device invented by the Elder Magi to enable their flying ships to navigate in the dark. It is sensitive to the vibrations of korlinium crystals. The spire of the Temple of Ohrido is solid korlinium, and the Elder Magi have set Paido's starguider to home in on the vibrations emitted by the spire. By following the direction of these vibrations, you should find the lost temple.</p>
- <p>While Paido is busy adjusting the starguider, you decide to take a closer look at your surroundings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to examine the red fruit, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to examine the clear pool, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to sit and wait for Paido to finish taking his readings, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You be wantin' to go to Tharro?</quote> asks the old woman impatiently. <quote>Or perhaps you be wantin' your fortune told by m'daughter, Tadia the Prophetess?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to enquire about the barge to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to ask the old woman about her daughter, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck under the board and step into the gloom, taking care to tread lightly around the mounds of rubble and pools of water that obscure the tunnel floor. Soon the light from the entrance fades into total darkness. Ahead, the sound of hammering continues.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you have a Lantern, a Torch and Tinderbox, or a Kalte Firesphere, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you have none of these items, you can advance in the dark by <link-text>turning to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">Or, if you prefer to turn around and retrace your steps to leave the mine, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Helghast vents a cry of rage and despair as you strike the blow that seals its doom. It crumples and falls, its flesh transforming into a vile green gas. All that remains is the torn and shredded robe that once concealed its identity.</p>
- <p>Your mind reels at what has just occurred, but you dare not dwell on the fearful implications, for you can make out the sound of feet running down the stairs beyond the locked refectory door. You rush to Paido's side and shake him, trying desperately to revive him. He groans, his head lolling from side to side as you drag him to his feet. There is now only one escape route from the refectory&emdash;the hatch in the wall that leads to the kitchens. You lift Paido across your shoulder and bundle him through the narrow opening. But, before you can pull yourself through, the door slams open and a rush of monks pour into the refectory.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to stand and fight the monks, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you choose to ignore them and clamber through the hatch, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without a sound you draw an arrow from your quiver, take aim, and fire. It strikes the target, splitting the spear haft clean in two and causing the man to leap with fright. Before his feet have returned to the platform, Paido moves forward and slams his open palm into the man's stomach, sending him tumbling over the rail. He lands with a dull splash, spreadeagled atop a mound of manure and rotting vegetation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to search the mill, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you choose to leave the mill and continue your ride north before the man regains consciousness, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foul creature howls its death-cry and topples over the edge. Before it is out of sight you turn and run along the tree-bridge, your hand outstretched to grab Paido's arm. Just in time you save him; a moment later and he would have joined the Anapheg and plummeted into the spray-filled pool.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect43.gif" width="250" height="178" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect43.pdf" width="250" height="178" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A brace of hunting dogs bursts through the curtained archway. They lope along the centre aisle, their claws scrabbling on the flagstones as they slide to a halt. Seconds later a group of monks appears, each armed with a sword. Systematically they search the pews, slowly advancing towards your hiding place. The dogs howl as they pick up your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kezoor shrieks in frustration. He renews his attack on Paido by creating more of the hideous creatures, but your companion uses his battle-magic to summon fire to his aid. From the tip of his sword a sheet of flame wafts down upon the spiders now closing in for the kill. They flare brightly, their legs withering in the flames, their crackling black bodies dropping to the floor and crumbling away to dust. <quote>Attack!</quote> shouts Paido, and together you advance against your foe. Kezoor draws his sword and mouths a silent spell of protection as he prepares to engage you both in a fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kezoor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">43</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. You may halve any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during the combat as Paido fights by your side, receiving half the blows struck by Kezoor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a terrific bang as another cube explodes. It is followed, almost instantaneously, by a massive explosion that transforms the Levitron into a colossal ball of flame, as the liquid gas stored inside the pressure tank ignites.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the bowls begins to emit a faint humming sound. The surface of its silvery liquid swirls and glows brighter, casting a phosphorescent light on to the domed ceiling. The sparkling mist slowly clears and a strange image takes shape, condensing and forming into something wholly alien, something that resembles the head of a monstrous fly. Its great multi-faceted eyes stare down at you, gleaming darkly with black fire, like two huge clusters of evil jewels.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A strange image takes shape resembling<br />the head of a monstrous fly</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="682" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="682" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Tan-ash-oka, Nadoknar Gnaag!</quote> booms a ghastly, rasping voice. Then, with a stifled cry of rage and recognition, the image clouds over and the light fades to a dull glow. The terrible visage of Darklord Gnaag has disappeared.</p>
- <p><quote>By the gods!</quote> gasps Paido, shocked to the core by what he has seen. <quote>What manner of beast was that?</quote> But you do not reply, for you sense that he already knows the dreadful answer.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you search the chamber. Behind a throne-like chair of chiselled stone you discover several useful items: a Sword, a Bow, 3 Arrows and enough food for 2 Meals. Also, set into the back of the chair, is a lever. It activates a portal in the opposite wall. The tapestry that conceals it is drawn aside, and you can see a stairway, flanked by torches, descending to a passage far below.</p>
- <p><quote>Come,</quote> says Paido. <quote>This room chills my blood.</quote> You move to follow him as he descends the stairs, stopping briefly to kick over the bowl of glowing, silvery liquid that projected the image of Darklord Gnaag.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect202-1-foot" idref="sect202-1">
- <p> Don't discard the Lodestone during this adventure unless you are forced to do so or given an explicit opportunity. Some passages in the book assume you you still possess it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ears are filled with a loathsome hissing as the bodies of your slain enemies dissolve into the mud. You stare at their smouldering remains, and a cold chill grips your heart as you speculate on why these foul servants of the Darklords came to this sleepy Talestrian hamlet.</p>
- <p>Inside the abbey you discover the grisly answer. Scattered throughout the chambers and corridors are the bodies of dead monks, their lifeless faces frozen in masks of horror. Several have been stripped of their robes, presumably to provide a disguise for their killers.</p>
- <p><quote>Why would the Darklords want to take control of this abbey?</quote> asks Paido, horrified at the sight of such slaughter.</p>
- <p><quote>I fear it is part of their plan to conquer Talestria,</quote> you reply. <quote>It is always their strategy to infiltrate a land with agents before invading. When invasion is launched, these agents rise up and attack from within.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>So you think that the Darklords plan to invade Talestria,</quote> says Paido, aghast at the possibility of such an event.</p>
- <p><quote>I suspect that their plan is already under way,</quote> you say thoughtfully. <quote>Perhaps the destruction of Luukos was masterminded not in Xanar, but in Helgedad.</quote></p>
- <p>Paido helps you to bury the monks in the graves already dug by their killers. As you cover the last of the bodies with soil you notice a small, pear-shaped stone lying on the pathway. Its speckled blue surface is mirror-smooth and, despite its size, it feels remarkably heavy. You suspect it is very valuable and decide to keep it. (Mark this Lodestone<a id="sect202-1" idref="sect202-1-foot" class="footnote" /> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item that you carry in your Belt Pouch. If you already carry your maximum number of Special Items, you must discard one in favour of this new item.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect55"><link-text>Turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your improved Kai skill warns you that to the north a tribe of hungry swamp creatures are lurking at the edge of the pool in search of prey. You and Paido would provide an excellent meal for these beasts. To the south the track takes you away from the heart of the swamp, and consequently further away from your goal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you wish to go north and brave the swamp creatures, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you decide to go south, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive at a flagstoned quadrangle. It is well lit by street lanterns, which hang from the first-floor balcony of a large and unusual building. Constructed of blue stone, with silver and scarlet veins running through it. The bricks have been polished to give a mirror-like shine. A huge wooden door banded with copper dominates the entrance, above which a bronze cast depicts a flaming broadsword with the words <quote>TEMPLE OF THE SWORD</quote> engraved along the blade.</p>
- <p>Beyond the temple, a street ascends to a stone watchtower. It is built on the peak of a hill and dominates the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you have a Map of Tharro, you may consult it before choosing any of the following options: <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to enter the temple, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to ride up to the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a man-beast of the Danarg.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ghagrim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect309">You can evade combat after three rounds; <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A horde of huge black spiders carpets the floor, their bulbous bellies crouched on hairy, angular legs. In a sudden rush they scuttle towards Paido, their eyes glinting and their mandibles gaping wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you do not have a bow or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Fireseed bursts into flames, blinding your pursuers with its sudden glare. You seize the opportunity to dive into the thick undergrowth that borders the track. Paido follows as you crawl towards the cover of the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw and fire an arrow at the monk's head. At the same time he spins his black staff with incredible speed and dexterity, creating a whirl of darkness. There is a brief flash as your arrow enters this spinning vortex and is smashed to fragments. Before the fragments have settled on the floor, you shoulder your bow, draw a hand weapon, and leap forward to catch your enemy off his guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow, gripping your horse with your knees as you take aim at the leader.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If the total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch with bated breath as the point of a spear moves slowly into view, its wet tip glinting dangerously. A man's voice, gruff and demanding, challenges Paido to state good reason for trespassing on his property or to suffer the consequences. Paido answers with a sound far louder than you ever imagined could be made by a human voice. The force of the shout hits the man like a clenched fist, slamming him backwards through the timber parapet. He lands with a dull splash, spreadeagled atop a mound of manure and rotting vegetation.</p>
- <p><quote>Vakeros power-word,</quote> explains Paido, in answer to your unspoken question. <quote>Someday I'll teach you the technique, Kai lord.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to search the mill, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you choose to leave the mill and continue your ride north to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch the dagger and hurl it at your foe. It strikes the creature in the midriff, sinking in up to the hilt. Such a wound would have felled any mortal being, but this enemy stands unmoved. It plucks the dagger from its side and drops it to the floor with disdain. Another ball of blue flame is forming at the tip of its black staff&emdash;you must act quickly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to attack the Helghast with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to use Paido's sword, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature gives a strange snickering cry as slowly it edges nearer and nearer. It is a huge, pear-shaped beast with a hunched back and a white lizard-like head. Awkwardly it shuffles upright, on two large hairy paws. At first glance it looks as if two totally separate creatures have been joined together at the waist: the lower half is covered with a coarse, spiky fur, and the upper body is pale and hairless, heavily veined, with long sinewy forearms. It raises its snout to savour the smell of your frightened horse and opens its fanged jaws.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The creature gives a strange snickering cry as it edges nearer</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="676" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="676" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fire and your arrow hits the necromancer, twisting him around and pitching him over as the shaft passes right through his arm. Although wounded, he quickly scrambles to his feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The edges of the pool roll inwards and smother the tip of your weapon, revealing an egg-like creature lurking in the hollow. A snaky tendril lashes up from a hole in its shell and tries to grip your wrist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If your weapon is an edged weapon (i.e. a sword, dagger, axe, spear, short sword or broadsword), <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If your weapon is a non-edged weapon (i.e. a mace, warhammer, quarterstaff or bow), <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expertly you draw an arrow and take aim at the counter. Seconds later the dwarf appears, his crossbow levelled ready to fire. You loose your bowstring and the arrow cuts the air, slamming into the leather stirrup at the front of the crossbow and splitting it wide open. It runs the length of the wooden stock and halts barely an inch from the dwarf's face, its steel tip quivering beneath his nose. His eye regards the deadly point with a look of shocked surprise before rolling up into his head. Seconds later there is a crash of broken glass. The dwarf has keeled over backwards and fallen, unconscious with shock, through the shelves of bottles that line the rear of the bar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The causeway comes to an abrupt halt, its jagged edge overhanging a sprawling tangle of reeds, marsh thistles and black moss. The pools of dark water are few, but the hazards are much greater than before.</p>
- <p><quote>Those patches,</quote> says Paido, pointing across the wild landscape, <quote>are quicksands.</quote> You stare at myriad tan-coloured patches where the weeds do not grow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to cross this quicksand bog, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you decide to return to the junction and take the west spur, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the tempting aroma, you push the meat stew away and settle for the dry provisions you carry in your pack. The monks appear upset by your refusal to eat their food. They whisper to each other and cast anxious glances at your untouched plate. Paido eats his stew, smiling delightedly as he fills his empty stomach. The monks hurry out of the refectory and return minutes later in the company of an elderly man, dressed in a hooded black robe. He carries a long black staff.</p>
- <p><quote>Has the Vakeros eaten?</quote> he asks, his voice strangely cold and monotonal.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, master,</quote> reply the monks, <quote>but the Kai lord refused.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bargee hands you a tankard filled to the brim with Chai-cheer. Its greenish hue does little to inspire your confidence, but your doubts soon dissolve when you taste the beverage&emdash;it is delicious. Paido raises his tankard and takes a great mouthful of the ale of his choice&emdash;Ferina Nog. Immediately he spits it out, wiping away its insipid taste on the back of his hand. <quote>Bilge juice!</quote> he splutters, slamming down his mug.</p>
- <p><quote>You should be a sight more careful where you empty your mouth, stranger,</quote> growls a man to your right. He bends down and picks up his polished steel helmet. With a slow and deliberate twist of his wrist he empties it of ale, pouring the contents all over Paido's feet. Your companion curses and reaches instinctively for his sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to take action to stop a fight breaking out, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you choose to do nothing, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sword whistles past your head and gouges a chunk of stone from the courtyard arch. You hear the monks shouting and you dig in your heels, steering your horse through the archway and along a narrow street that leads to the quadrangle. At this early hour there are few obstacles to slow your escape as you gallop headlong through the twisting streets of Tharro. It is not until you reach the town's north gate that you finally rein in your horse to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you see the Temple of Ohrido, rising majestically out of the swamp mists and tangled vegetation. The sight of this towering ziggurat is so breathtaking that you are both stunned into silence as you feast your eyes on its untarnished splendour. Tier upon tier of gleaming white stone, shaped and formed into perfect symmetry, confront you. Huge foundation slabs support a level carved of golden rock, inlaid and decorated with gemstones. Above that sit strata of precious metals and then levels made up of crystal slabs, whose facets refract the colours of the rainbow. Upward climb tiers of ruby, sapphire and emerald, that offer up a wedge-shaped spire of pure korlinium crystal to the sky.</p>
- <p>At its base the swamp has shrunk back as if repelled by the radiant goodness of the temple. A perimeter of lush grass leads to a staircase of solid amber. You follow Paido as he ascends towards a pair of huge triangular doors set into the second level. Everywhere the glitter of gemstones and the gleam of precious metals radiate a purity unspoiled by the Danarg. Paido completes the complex procedures that open the great doors, taught to him by the Elder Magi in preparation for this mission. They part and you enter, stepping on a floor of glistening gold, a floor that has lain undisturbed for seven thousand years.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The monks of Talestria are infamous for their gluttony. Stories of their thirty-course meals and week-long banquets are well known throughout Magnamund. However, despite their voluminous robes, you cannot help but notice how slight these monks appear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to stop and pay your respects to the deceased, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you choose to continue on your way without stopping, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pain gradually subsides, but a fearful numbness spreads through your body, paralysing your limbs and leaving you totally at the mercy of your enemy. He utters a cruel laugh and turns to leave the chamber. Swiftly you sink into a coma induced by the poison in your blood: it is a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A powerful nerve toxin is injected into your throat, paralysing you from the neck down. Your vocal chords are frozen and you are incapable of shouting for Paido's help. A blind horror fills your senses as, helplessly, you watch the creature gorge on your blood, its shell-like body pulsating and swelling.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>What!</quote> exclaims Trost, incredulous. <quote>Are you afraid of a snivelling grave poacher? If you'll not help me then I'll do the job alone.</quote></p>
- <p>Before you have a chance to respond he leaves the table and advances towards the stranger. The man remains motionless, seemingly engrossed in his black book. Trost draws his sword and holds aloft the notice of death with his free hand. <quote>You are Kezoor the Necromancer, an outlaw in this land.</quote> The man remains as still as a stone statue. <quote>By the authority of Queen Evaine, I &ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>Trost stops in mid-sentence, his commanding voice little more than a stifled groan as Kezoor looks up from his book. His hard grey eyes glow with an unnatural intensity. Trost screams. His face becomes a mass of swelling and erupting boils. He collapses to his knees as the pain grows more intense.</p>
- <p><quote>I'll finish this worm!</quote> snarls Paido, incensed by Trost's agony and the cruel gloating laugh of his tormentor. He draws his sword and strides across the hold, but before he can strike a blow, the necromancer conjures forth a new, more horrific summonation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Snatching the seed from your pocket, you throw it with all your strength at a crawling lizard-beast that is slithering towards you on its belly. You watch with dismay as the Fireseed bounces off its soft, fibroid skull and plops harmlessly into the mire. (Remember to tick this lost Fireseed off your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Cursing your luck you unsheathe your weapon as the creature rears up to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spend a cold, wet, and thoroughly miserable night on the plain south of Tharro. A fresh storm rolls in from the west making it impossible to light a fire or dry your already damp clothing. It is dawn when the rain finally eases off, but the storm gives way to a biting wind that chills you to the bone (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). You must now eat a Meal or lose an additional 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The garrison of Tharro still refuses to allow you into the town, so you are forced to set off towards a line of distant hills that fill the northern horizon. Grey-brown grasses brush your shins as you cross this wild, uncultivated plain, encroaching on the deserted track that leads to the frontier town of Syada. An eerie, unnatural silence accompanies your ride, broken only by the rare cawing of ravens, circling high overhead.</p>
- <p>By midday you are deep among the hills. The terrain becomes increasingly rocky, undulating like a storm-tossed ocean. The tall plains grass has given way to sad little plants, scraggy and deformed, stunted by the winds that sweep down from the barren wastes of Ogia. The track passes through a narrow valley, where a small stone cabin stands beside the entrance to a disused mine. As you approach you see a face at the cabin window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to stop at the cabin, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to investigate the mine, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you choose to continue along the valley, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heightened Kai sense warns you of approaching danger. Riders from Warlord Zegron's advance guard have broken away from the main army groups and infiltrated the hills to the east. Having followed the stream, and looted several hamlets along the way, they are now poised to ambush refugees as they try to escape along the track to Tharro.</p>
- <p>Forewarned by your improved Magnakai Discipline, you tell Paido of what lies ahead. <quote>If we continue along this path, we may be riding to our deaths,</quote> he answers grimly. Rather than running the risk of ambush, you leave the track and take to the hills.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the delicious aroma: this purple liquid is a liqueur made from the fruit of the Larnuma tree. It is very nutritious and each draught will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when consumed. There is enough for two draughts. If you wish to keep the flask, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An hour passes and you breathe a sigh of relief, glad to have left the Ghagrim settlement far behind. You forego a rest and press on along the track until you reach a promontory of rock on the north-western tip of the island. There you stop and snatch a few hours' sleep while you wait for the dawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102"><link-text>Turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to erect a mindshield to counter the searing pain of this psychic attack, but your defence is too weak to withstand the onslaught. You scream in agony as the assault cuts deep into the fabric of your mind: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner have you dispatched the two dogs than you are faced by their angry masters. <quote>There they are!</quote> screams the leader. <quote>Destroy them!</quote></p>
- <p>The monks raise their swords and charge along the central aisle, screaming and howling like men possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Monks of the Sword</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hang your dripping Kai cloak over the back of an empty chair and draw it close to the blazing log fire. Your entrance has drawn curious glances from the tavern crowd and you can hear them speculating, in hushed voices, on the purpose of your visit. Paido removes his Backpack and hooded cape before joining you at a table. The whisperings increase as the plains folk catch sight of his dark skin and plaited, flaxen hair.</p>
- <p><quote>Pay no attention to them,</quote> advises the dwarf. <quote>They're a might suspicious folk an' news of late's done nought to better their nature.</quote> You nod benignly and assure the dwarf that they have nothing to fear from two travel-weary adventurers on their way north in search of work. Paido reaches for his pack and removes half a loaf of black bread and a slab of salted pork. He is about to offer you a share when a loud voice, full of indignation, rings in your ear. <quote>And what do you think you're up to?</quote></p>
- <p>It is the voice of the cheerful dwarf, although the sight of you preparing to eat your own food in his tavern has greatly soured his mood. He strides across the floor and scatters Paido's food with the back of his hand. <quote>Get out!</quote> he bellows, his face growing redder by the second. <quote>Get out before I throw you out!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to gather your belongings and leave the tavern, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you choose to resist the innkeeper's attempt at throwing you out into the storm, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push open the door and step inside, your weapon poised to counter any sudden attack. The door slams shut and a scar-faced rogue leaps out of the shadows and attacks you with a pick-axe handle.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A scar-faced rogue leaps out of the shadows<br />and attacks you with a pick-axe handle</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="660" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="660" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Rogue Miner</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Speed, dexterity and courage save you from being impaled by the advancing spears. You pull the reins, wheeling your horse around on his hind legs so that his flailing front legs force the soldiers to pull away for fear of being kicked senseless. Before they have a chance to recover, you and Paido have galloped out of the courtyard and disappeared like shadows into the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon cuts through the membrane and penetrates the creature's shell. It emits a shrill noise and the shell implodes, drawing a swirl of dust and air into its rotten core. You step back as a foul stench rises from the hole, and wipe away the ichor which stains the tip of your blade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>And to what do we owe the honour of your visit to Tharro?</quote> asks Trost the soldier, in a polite but inquisitive tone.</p>
- <p><quote>It's on the way to Syada,</quote> replies Paido. <quote>We're going there in search of some work. We heard about the attack on Luukos, and we reckon they'll be a few rich farmers there who'll pay handsomely for us to protect their interests.</quote></p>
- <p>Trost chuckles and rubs his stubbly chin. <quote>I mean no offence, but if Zegron and his rabble attack the farms near Syada it'll take more than two freelances to turn their tails. If I were you I'd stay in Tharro&emdash;there's plenty of work there for the likes of you. Take my advice and leave Zegron to the army. We'll blunt his nose, don't you worry.</quote></p>
- <p>A shudder runs through the floor as the barge gets underway. A new passenger has boarded at Honey Lodge, a thin individual with hard grey eyes. He descends the tap-room stairs, pausing to shake rain from his cloak and wide-brimmed hat. Slung at his side is a narrow-bladed sword and clutched in his hand is a leather-bound book, its cover as plain and as black as his sombre clothing. Without saying a word he takes a seat in the shadows of the opposite corner and opens his book to read.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deadly korovax has multiplied in your bloodstream unchecked. Suddenly your thigh muscles contract, causing you to stagger and fall. Paido rushes to your side, lifting you out of the choking airless mist that covers the forest floor. You are shaking from head to toe as opposing muscles pull against each other uncontrollably. Cramp grips your chest like an iron vice, preventing you from breathing and, in the course of three short minutes, you slip into unconsciousness, and from there into a sleep from which there is no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A distant echoing whistle issues from the monk's open mouth. Steadily it rises in pitch until it passes beyond the range of your hearing. At that moment a terrible pain courses through your head. The pain and pressure grows until your skull feels ready to explode.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The light fades and you step down from the dais, your senses aglow with a new-found wisdom and strength. Having witnessed the fulfilment of your quest, Paido beams with joy as you return to his side. He congratulates you and bids you follow as he turns towards an archway of silver set into the crystal walls of the chamber. <quote>Come, Lone Wolf. We have a long journey ahead of us. We must leave without delay.</quote></p>
- <p>The thought of returning to the dangers of the Danarg fills you with dread. Paido senses your anxiety. <quote>Don't look so dismayed,</quote> he says, still smiling. <quote>This temple will provide the means for our safe return, you will see.</quote> Intrigued by his answer, you follow in silence as he leads you through the archway and up a long flight of marble stairs to another chamber, also constructed of crystal but veined with a marble that glistens like liquid fire. It is solid korlinium. At the centre of the chamber, its hull resting on a cradle of steel, is a Levitron&emdash;an ancient skyship. Like everything else that you have seen in this wondrous temple, the craft is untarnished by time. Paido ushers you aboard and prepares to power the craft. A shudder runs through the hull as the engines rise in pitch and slowly it lifts from its bed of steel. The chamber is built in the spire of the temple and the roof now slides open to allow the Levitron to rise into the darkening sky above the Danarg.</p>
- <p>Paido sets the controls and sets the ship's starguider on a course for Elzian. Then he joins you at the bow-rail for one last look at the Temple of Ohrido. It glows red in the light of the setting sun, but the shimmering glow is blemished by shadows that swoop back and forth across its tiers. You assume it is just a trick of the twilight, until your ears are filled by a sudden and terrifying shriek.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man's voice, gruff and gravelly, demands that Paido state good reason for the intrusion or suffer the consequences of trespassing on private land. Paido answers with a sound far louder than you ever imagined could be made by a human voice. The force of the shout hits the man in the chest like a clenched fist, slamming him backwards through the timber parapet rail of the platform. He lands with a dull splash, spreadeagled atop a mound of manure and rotting vegetation.</p>
- <p><quote>Vakeros power-word,</quote> explains Paido, in answer to your unspoken question. <quote>Someday I'll teach you the technique, Kai lord.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to search the mill, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to leave the mill and continue your ride north to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hounds growl fiercely as they lope towards your hiding place. It is now impossible to avoid detection&emdash;you must stand and fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hunting Dogs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The merchant is quick to note your fascination with the Grey Crystal Ring. He offers to exchange it for any Special Item you may have that is of equal interest to him. He would exchange a Lodestone, a Jewelled Mace, or a Silver Helm for the Grey Crystal Ring.</p>
- <p>If you possess any of these Special Items and wish to swop it, do so, remembering to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">To leave the shop and continue, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido shouts for help. The Vordaks have forced him back to the rail, and he is in danger of falling overboard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to go to his aid, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If first you wish to gather up the black crystal cubes and throw them overboard, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>She's the best fortune-teller in the whole o' Talestria,</quote> beams the old woman, full of pride. <quote>She's never wrong 'bout what she sees, though there's some folk who'd rather not know what's in store for 'em. If you be wantin' your fortune read it'll cost you 80 Lune&emdash;in advance, if you please.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you want to pay the old woman 80 Lune (or 20 Gold Crowns), do so and <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you prefer to ask her about the barge to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you wish to leave the Ferry House, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first blow smashes the soft fruit to a pulp. At this the other fruits drop from the tree, springing open as they hit the ground. Long, thin, fleshy legs emerge from their squat bodies and they scuttle away into the surrounding marsh at an alarming speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow to your cheek and take aim at the necromancer, but passengers run wildly across your field of fire and you dare not release your arrow for fear of hitting one of them. Precious seconds elapse as you await a chance to fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If it is 5&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido dispatches his enemy as quickly as you put paid to yours. You retrieve your horses and gallop away from the quadrangle. At this early hour there are few obstacles to hamper your escape as you ride headlong through the twisting streets of Tharro.</p>
- <p>It is not until you reach the town's north gate that you rein in your horse to a halt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A blue flame burns at the tip of the creature's staff. It flares and forms into a ball of pulsating energy. The Helghast shrieks with malicious glee as it whirls the staff once around its head, sending the screaming ball of blue fire towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you choose to dive to the floor to avoid the flaming missile, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you wish to attempt to deflect the fireball by striking it with your weapon, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track winds through the centre of the valley, following the course of a stream that meanders towards the River Phoen. It flows alongside a white-brick house, turning its waterwheel with a comforting, regular sound. As you ride past the house and over a tiny, hump-backed bridge, a cluster of cottages and an abbey come into view. In the grounds of the abbey a burial is taking place. A circle of monks dressed in hooded brown robes are lowering a coffin into one of several freshly dug graves.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Monks in hooded brown robes are lowering a coffin<br />into one of several freshly dug graves</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="683" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="683" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This creature is especially susceptible to psychic attack. Your mental energies pierce its sensitive nerve centre, causing it to crash to the ground in agony. Blinded by the pain, it cannot pursue as you turn and make your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deadly danger spurs you to a super-human response. Instinctively you pull yourself away from the arrow, your eyes following its flight as if it were travelling at a fraction of its true speed. As the shaft whistles past and disintegrates against the wall, you have already unsheathed your weapon and begun to advance on the bowyer. He stands frozen, his eyes wide with fright and disbelief. You strike him. He parries the blow with your silver bow but it spins from his trembling fingers. Hurriedly he draws a sword.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bourn the Bowyer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the swiftness of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during the first round of combat only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature's sucker-like hands seal themselves around your waist as you fight to unsheathe a weapon.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Xlorg</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of its attack you must fight unarmed for the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man springs to his feet and unhooks an axe from his belt in readiness for combat. He wears a knee-length surcoat of scarlet cloth over a suit of heavy chainmail, and upon his chest is emblazoned a crest depicting a castle and an open hand. Paido hesitates, not from fear of his opponent, but because he has suddenly recognized the uniform of a soldier of the Tharro garrison.</p>
- <p><quote>There'll be no fightin' on board my barge!</quote> booms the angry voice of the captain. <quote>Sheathe y'weapons or I'll shine some daylight through yer gizzards!</quote></p>
- <p>The captain stands at the foot of the tap-room stairs, a hollow tube of steel clutched in his hoary hands. Most of the passengers now have their fingers jammed in their ears in case he should fire his primitive-but-deadly Bor musket. Paido lowers his sword and apologizes for his rashness. He offers the soldier an ale and the man accepts&emdash;but on one condition&emdash;that it is not a mug of Ferina Nog!</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature emits a shrill noise as its shell implodes with tremendous force, drawing a swirl of dust and air into its rotten core. At once the tendril falls limp and all feeling returns to your body. Dazed and shaken by the ordeal you stagger away from the hole as the foul stench of the creature's ichor taints the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stench of scorched fur hangs heavily in the tap-room, a reminder of the ghastly spiders. The smell turns your stomach, and you motion to Paido to follow as you go up on deck to watch the bargees dispose of the bodies. Contemptuously they weight Kezoor's corpse with bricks and hurl it over the side, but Trost they lie in an oaken chest and the captain leads your fellow passengers in prayer as it is lowered respectfully into the Phoen.</p>
- <p>The heavy rain and the burial have delayed the journey. The bargees try to make up lost time by whipping the ghorkas, but to no avail. The muddy towpath and their waterlogged fur prevent them from pulling any faster. It is mid-afternoon by the time the barge arrives at the next stopping place&emdash;Ferry House. A ramshackle building is perched precariously on the edge of the river bank, and an old wooden jetty juts out from the side, its empty platform almost submerged by the swollen river. Two plains farmers disembark here. You hear them talking excitedly about the events they have witnessed, their voices gradually fading as the barge moves forward again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first you think that the tracks are those of a black bear, the paw prints being of a similar size and depth. But a closer examination changes your mind. These prints were left by a biped, a two-footed animal that walks upright. You have never before come across tracks like these, and judging from the size of the prints, you would be happier to avoid the creature that made them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap away from the table and draw a hand weapon as the innkeeper's son makes his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Boran</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The dwarf is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If both you and your enemy are still alive after two rounds of combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you kill your opponent within two rounds, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike the glowing ball of flame, and an explosion flings you against the wall of the refectory. Your weapon has disintegrated and you have suffered severe burns to your arms and body: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and delete the weapon from your Weapons list.</p>
- <p>Sore and bloodied, you drag yourself to your feet in time to see the Helghast preparing to launch another fireball. This time the target is your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to try to avoid the missile by diving aside at the last possible moment, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you have another hand weapon and wish to use it to attack the Helghast, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs lead down to a vast network of catacombs that stretch in every direction. It would be easy to lose yourself in this maze of tunnels, but your Kai tracking skills, heightened by the pressing need to escape from the monastery, help you avoid the hazards and dead ends of these sprawling burial vaults. Following the sound of dripping water, you discover a circular stone trapdoor in the ceiling. Paido cups his hands around your foot and lifts you nearer the tunnel roof, enabling you to open the trapdoor. Early morning daylight streams into the passage as you lift the slab of wet stone and slide it aside.</p>
- <p>You have emerged at the courtyard on the north side of the monastery. Two monks stand guard at the double doors of a low, timber-framed building on the other side of the paved enclosure. Fortunately a line of bushy fruit trees that encircles the courtyard provide all the cover you need to avoid their watchful eyes. You crouch in the shadows and watch as the monks leave their posts to enter the building. Minutes later the doors swing open and they reappear, both on horseback, and ride off through an archway to the right. The courtyard is now empty but you curse their departure, for the horses they are riding belong to you and Paido.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to enter the stables, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to escape on foot through the archway, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and run through cloying, ankle-deep mud that saps the strength in your legs. The gigantic spider scuttles closer, lowering its yellow head ready to scoop you into its maw. If you are to escape this creature you must do something to distract or delay it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you have a Meal in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you have neither a Meal nor the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, you must stand and fight the creature; <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise Paido into a sitting position, leaning his back against the cellar wall, and lift one of his eyelids. The almond-shaped iris is fully dilated, his breathing is shallow, and his heartbeat is weak and irregular. Your basic Kai skill of healing warns you that he has slipped into a coma.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you possess a potion of Laumspur, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess any of this healing herb, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Tadia still lives with her mother at Ferry House,</quote> replies the farmer. <quote>Five miles north of here there's a junction where a track heads east. The signpost there says to Topham. A mile past Topham you come to Ferry House on the banks of the River Phoen. If it's her counsel you're after you'd better take plenty o' gold. She's wont to charge a high price for her crystal gazin'.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the farmer for his advice and suggest to Paido that the time has come to continue your journey north. As you are about to leave, the farmer calls out, <quote>By the way, you'd best tell her Jako sent you&emdash;she don't take kindly to folks who drop by uninvited.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have leapt out of the frying pan and into the fire! The pool of water is an illusion. Its surface is a gossamer-thin membrane, and it hides the egg-like Korkuna which has burrowed beneath it. As you touch the surface, the edges of the membrane roll inwards and smother your hand, holding you fast in a steel grip. A snaky tendril lashes out from a hole in the shell and wraps itself around your throat, its sharp tip piercing your neck. You are paralysed; you cannot move. Horror fills your senses as you watch helplessly as the creature gorges on your blood, its shell pulsating and swelling.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street twists and turns northwards, passing the entrance to a wooden-fronted barracks. As you watch, a group of soldiers armed with spears emerges in a column, escorting a prisoner with his hands tied behind his back. At the junction with another street they turn into the courtyard of a whitewashed brick building. Above the courtyard gate flutters the Talestrian flag.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect264.gif" width="327" height="114" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect264.pdf" width="327" height="114" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to follow the soldiers into the courtyard, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are faced by a monstrous reptile. Its webbed, claw-tipped hands are poised to rend you in two.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>You are faced by a monstrous reptile</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="619" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="619" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Xlorg</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade combat and must fight the creature to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare across the lush open plains that border the river, contemplating the quest that lies ahead. A flock of long-necked okrils fly overhead, their melodic call echoing across the grasslands as they return to their nests at the river's edge. Paido sits silently beside you at the prow, his thoughts, like yours, on the perils of the Danarg that have yet to be faced.</p>
- <p>The sun is low in the sky when you catch sight of Tharro, its mud-coloured walls&emdash;thick, high and crenellated&emdash;dominating the hill on which it was built centuries ago. The barge passes beneath a stout wooden bridge, supported by rough-hewn pillars of stone, along a canal running parallel to the river, and draws to a halt before two massive metal-bound doors which span the waterway. You collect your horses and disembark with the other mounted passengers, riding in line towards the fortified town gate. At first you are turned away by the guards, but when you show your pass, signed and sealed by Lord Adamas, you are both ushered to the front of the queue and saluted like lords as you ride through the archway and into the square beyond. Three streets converge at the river gate square: Copperpiece Lane, Globe Walk and Flagon Alley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to go west into Copperpiece Lane, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to go north into Globe Walk, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to go north-west into Flagon Alley, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido screams for your help. A swooping Kraan-rider has cast a large net, smothering his body. The net is sewn with hundreds of tiny barbed hooks which have worked their way into his skin and clothes, and he cannot free himself without the hooks inflicting fearful wounds. Only one Vordak remains to confront him, all the others having perished on his blade, but he is now unable to defend himself against this creature. He is at the mercy of a merciless foe.</p>
- <p>You scramble to your feet and rush to save him as the Vordak creeps closer. Suddenly the Kraan-rider reappears, gliding low across the deck before hovering over the bow. A length of thin black rope dangles from its saddle and hurriedly the Vordak threads it through the corners of the net. You race up the steps, shouting <quote>For Sommerlund</quote> and launch your attack. The Vordak turns to face you, its skeletal features frozen in a mask of terror. An instant later your weapon shears its bony neck and sends its skull-like head spinning down into the Danarg. A ghastly cry pierces your ears, but it is not a shriek of pain or despair: it is a malicious caw of triumph. The Kraan beats its massive wings, and the down-draught forces you to your knees as the creature climbs higher into the darkening sky. You stare aghast as the rope closes the net around Paido and lifts him off the deck. Instinctively you leap upwards, your hands outstretched to grab the barbed net, but it is too late. The Kraan turns in mid-air and flies off to the north with Paido, wounded and helpless, swinging like a netted fish below its leathery black belly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wretched cry of pain and despair fills the chamber as you strike the killing blow. The Helghast falls, its flesh transforming into a putrid green gas that seeps from the vents in its tattered robe.</p>
- <p>Your mind reels at what has just occurred but you dare not dwell on the fearful implications, for the poison in your system is beginning to overwhelm your healing power. You must act quickly if you are to save both yourself and Paido from the fatal toxin that is flowing through your veins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you have any Laumspur, Rendalim's Elixir, or Oede herb, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you do not possess any of these healing potions, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Do not feel downhearted. Even the scholars of Garthen, when last they travelled this road, were confounded by my riddle,</quote> boasts the old man. <quote>Now we must settle our agreement.</quote></p>
- <p>From Paido he demands a large woolen blanket he carries in his Backpack, but of you he demands a Special Item. Delete from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> the Special Item that is fourth on your list. If you have less than four Special Items you must delete the last one on your list. If you have no Special Items at all, delete the first of your Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">To continue your journey north, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses and your experience reveal that the hooded stranger wants only to help you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you choose to accept his help and hide in his wagon, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you decide not to accept his help you must confront the approaching monks; <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Paido bid farewell to Lord Adamas and spur your horses along the wide paved street towards the city's gatehouse. The wagon-worn highway leads to the village of Sharr, a small, wood-walled enclave of fishermen and bargees, built around a great stone bridge which spans the River Phoen. You leave the highway and follow a twisting path down to the river's edge. There a barge is ready to leave for Tharro; its team of ghorkas are harnessed and the crew are preparing to cast off the thick rope hawsers securing the barge to the quay.</p>
- <p>The captain sees you approach and calls to his men, <quote>Hold fast, lads! Looks like we've two more for Tharro.</quote></p>
- <p>A gangplank is lowered and the crew guide your horses aboard. As you dismount the captain strides along the bleached wood deck and greets you like an old friend, shaking both of you warmly by the hand. <quote>Lord Adamas sent word to expect two riders for this trip, though I'd almost given up waiting for you to show. He's paid your fares and he said you may be wantin' some privacy, so I've set aside a cabin at the stern. My lads will see to your horses.</quote></p>
- <p>The captain points to the rear of the barge where two sets of stairs descend below the deck. <quote>Take the stairs on your left; your cabin is the door at the end of the gangway. If you be wantin' some food or ale, there's a tap-room in the hold&emdash;just take the stairs on the right.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to inspect your cabin, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to investigate the tap-room, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly and silently they leave their huts, creeping like cats stalking their prey. They move on two legs, although they appear better suited to loping on all fours. You turn and run for all you are worth, but this is their territory and they know every fold in the ground. Swiftly they gain on you, forcing you to stand and fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you wish to draw a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you creep along an alley running beside the bowyery and return to the post where your horses are hitched. Muffled cries of alarm can be heard coming from inside the building: the body of the dead owner must have been discovered.</p>
- <p>Without undue haste you remount your horses and head along an alley running north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido reveals the coin; you have chosen correctly. You decide to take the second watch and settle yourself down for some much needed rest. The grey earth is soft and spongy and provides an excellent mattress. You pull your warm Kai cloak around your shoulders and slip into a deep, dreamless sleep (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Four hours later you take over the watch. Your vigil passes uneventfully, and as the darkness of night gives way to the gloomy grey of dawn, you wake your companion and prepare to set off once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At your approach the monks step back from the grave and draw themselves into a line. Their hooded heads stay bowed and their hands remain hidden inside the generous folds of their robes. You ask the name of the unfortunate deceased, but the echo of your voice and the constant drip of the steady rain is your only answer.</p>
- <p>All at once, as if in response to a silent signal, the monks throw back their hoods to reveal ghastly, fleshless faces. <quote>By the gods!</quote> gasps Paido. They emit a hideous shriek, panicking the horses. As you fight to control your frightened animal, the skeletal monks spring forward to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Even at this great distance you can feel the ground shaking as the Ogian army thunders on to the plateau that surrounds the burning town of Syada. You urge your horses down the track, away from the crested ridge, and make for the stream where you stopped briefly to rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you do not possess this skill, or have not yet reached this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sinister monk is shocked by the speed and ferocity of your attack, but he recovers his senses in time to parry your first blow with his black staff. A splash of hissing sparks lights the room as your weapon scrapes along the jet-black pole and glances off its twisted tip. You raise your arm to strike again, but you are distracted by Paido's scream of alarm. His face is deathly pale and his hands and arms are trembling uncontrollably. With a groan he collapses, scattering plates and cutlery as he hits the table and rolls unconscious to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Around a pool of slimy water are gathered a group of vine coils, hollow and funnel-shaped like gigantic rusty springs. They support a huge spider's web. There is no sign of the web's maker, although, judging by the size of the rope-like strands, it must be a creature of enormous size.</p>
- <p>You give the pool a wide berth before finding your way back to where the starguider's signal is strongest. A creeping bank of mist rolls across your path and the maker of the web looms out of it. Paido stifles a cry as this hairy abomination scuttles towards you, its venomous maw poised to bite.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The hairy abomination scuttles towards<br />you, its venomous maw poised to bite</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="686" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="686" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to stand and fight this creature, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to try to evade it, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You exert your control over the approaching dogs, commanding them to ignore the trail of scent that leads to your hiding place. They stop and sniff the air, whining like hungry pups, frustrated and confused by their conflicting senses. You change your command and will them to attack their masters. Instantly their whining becomes an angry growl as they turn ferociously on their handlers. The leading monks throw up their hands in horror and fall against those behind as the dogs leap on them, biting and clawing at their throats. This unexpected attack throws the monks into a panic. They turn and flee the hall, desperate to escape the sharp, rending teeth of their own hunting dogs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you ride into Stia, a village comprising a score of cottages and a dilapidated hut which sits astride the Great North Road. As you approach the tiny thatched hut its stable door swings open and an old man steps out of the shadows. He is wearing an odd assortment of antique armour and regalia that clanks and rattles like a cart-load of rusty metal as he shuffles across your path.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>An old man wearing an odd assortment of<br />antique armour shuffles across your path</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="698" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="698" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Hold there, strangers!</quote> he blusters, his croaky voice full of self-importance. <quote>Proceed no further till you pay the toll.</quote> You draw your horse to a halt and stare down at the ridiculous-looking figure.</p>
- <p><quote>By what authority do you levy a toll on the Queen's highway?</quote> asks Paido, irritated by the delay. <quote>By the authority of the Queen herself,</quote> retorts the old man, indignantly, pointing with crooked finger to a placard on the wall of his hut. It bears the faded seal of Queen Evaine, but the board is so weathered that the words above it are illegible.</p>
- <p><quote>We travel to Tharro on royal business,</quote> you say, showing the Pass given to you by Lord Adamas. <quote>Stand aside and let us proceed.</quote> The old man snatches the Pass from your hand and scrutinizes it, though it is obvious that his eyesight is so poor that he cannot read the contents.</p>
- <p><quote>Bah!</quote> he snorts, thrusting the Pass back into your hand. <quote>It's a forgery! You'll not fool me with that worthless scrap o' vellum!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And we'll not be taken in by a greedy old fool whose wits are as rusty as the armour he wears!</quote> shouts Paido angrily. As his words echo along the street a dozen villagers, armed with an assortment of farming tools, come to investigate the commotion. They form up in a line behind the old man, ready to enforce his demand.</p>
- <p><quote>What is the toll?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Only a trinket you may have that takes our fancy; that is all. One item a-piece and you can continue on your way,</quote> replies the old man, smugly. <quote>But let it not be said that we are without wit,</quote> he snaps, glaring at Paido. <quote>We Stians pride ourselves on our sense of fair play and our love of riddles, therefore I shall make you an offer that satisfies us both. Answer me one riddle correctly and you can pass through our village without paying the toll. Answer wrongly, or give no answer at all, and you must pay the toll without question. Is it agreed?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to agree to the old man's terms, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you refuse to agree, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nausea and giddiness are beginning to impair your senses. Desperately you muster all your reserves of strength to combat the poison, but you are greatly fatigued after your fight with the Helghast. Gradually the pain subsides to be replaced by a fearful numbness that paralyses your limbs. Swiftly you sink into a coma induced by the poison in your blood. It is a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the narrow, winding street, passing rows of dusty houses and shops. The noisy clack of window shutters signifies an end to another day's business as the shopkeepers close for the night. The street turns eastwards and begins to climb Fortress Hill.</p>
- <p>Halfway up the rise you approach a squat building of green-glazed stone. A fat merchant stands in the doorway, waiting impatiently for customers despite the late hour. <quote>Good evening, gentlemen,</quote> he says, in a thin and wheedling voice. <quote>Welcome to the emporium of Rath Radis, the storehouse of miracles.</quote> Through the open doorway you can see that the shop is brim-full of curious magical paraphernalia.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to enter the shop, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you choose to ignore the merchant and continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the flickering light you see that a large section of the tunnel floor ahead has collapsed. Gingerly you edge around the deep hole and continue along the passage. Steadily the hammering grows louder until you arrive at a new tunnel branching off to the left. Recent excavation has exposed a rich vein of silver ore that glitters brightly. As you peer down the new shaft, you see a dwarf in a miner's hat, hammering at the ore with a mattock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to call to him, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to leave him to his work and return to the surface to continue your journey, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the bargee draws a tankard of Bor Brew from its keg, you notice that several of the passengers are whispering to each other and casting curious glances in your direction. You catch the words <quote>madman</quote> and <quote>fool</quote> in the undertone of mutterings that pass between them. The bargee returns, sets the tankard down on the table before you, and steps back nervously. Silence fills the tap-room as you swallow the thick, creamy ale.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the rank of Primate, add 3 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If your total is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If it is now 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flicker of an eyelid and a bead of sweat are the first signs of Paido's recovery. Slowly he stirs to consciousness, waking from a sleep that was so nearly his last. He can remember nothing of the ordeal and, when you tell him all that has happened, he shakes his head in disbelief. <quote>A Helghast?</quote> he says, incredulous. <quote>How can it be?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The servants of Darklord Gnaag have infiltrated this monastery,</quote> you reply. <quote>They have kept themselves hidden, but I fear the day is fast approaching when they will rise up and wreak havoc in this town. Already they know our true identities, and I wager they know why we're here.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>This is bitter news, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Paido, his face etched with worry. <quote>We can afford to delay no longer. If Talestria falls to Darklord Gnaag before we reach the Danarg, then the quest is lost.</quote></p>
- <p>It is a sobering thought but you do not dwell on it. You help Paido to his feet and cast your eyes around the chamber in search of an exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201"><link-text>Turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Shieldwarden Nehdra ain't here; this is the town gaol,</quote> retorts the guard, narrowing his eyes suspiciously as he inspects first you and then Paido, as if you were both escaped felons.</p>
- <p><quote>At the end o' Copperpiece Lane, next to the Temple o' the Sword, there's a tower. That's where you'll find the Shieldwarden, only you 'ad better 'ave good reason for wantin' 'im at this hour or you'll both end up spendin' the night 'ere.</quote> He cocks his thumb over his shoulder at the gaol and a sneer spreads across his ugly face.</p>
- <p>You follow Paido out of the courtyard and continue your ride along Copperpiece Lane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You deflect the stream of liquid fire with the edge of your golden blade, sending it raining down into the Danarg. Two more Kraan swoop in and hover above the prow. Their riders leap on to the deck and begin attacking part of the superstructure.</p>
- <p><quote>Stop them!</quote> screams Paido, drawing his sword. <quote>Stop them or we're doomed!</quote> You leap from the bow and run across the main deck, your sun-sword raised to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must fight these creatures one at a time. They are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the combat. These creatures are undead: remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses they sustain due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A mile from the tavern you slip from the saddle and crash on to the highway. Paido wheels his horse around and comes to your aid, his face etched deep with anxiety. From his pocket he takes a healing pad of Laumspur and presses it on your shattered arm, holding it in place with a strap from his saddlebag. The strap acts as a tourniquet and stems the flow of blood that has discoloured the muddy soil so much that it resembles a red blanket.</p>
- <p><quote>This is cursed luck, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Paido, as he lifts you carefully back on to your horse. <quote>Your quest has hardly begun and already you have fallen foul of a poisoned bolt, and by no fault of your own.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you do not possess this skill or have yet to reach the Magnakai rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scramble behind the table, the only cover offered on this side of the refectory, to find yourself crouched beside Paido. He is still breathing, although unconscious. His blue-steel sword rests across the back of his legs and the hilt of a dagger protrudes from the top of his boot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to take his sword, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to take the dagger and throw it at the Helghast, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as your hand closes around the fruit, it splits wide open, its red skin forming a star-shaped cluster of tentacles that wrap themselves around your wrist to prevent you from casting it away. Needle-like spines shoot from its core into your palm, injecting a powerful anaesthetic that paralyses your arm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you have a dagger, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you do not possess this weapon, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tap-room becomes a scene of total chaos as hysterical passengers stampede towards the stairs. Paido is forced into a corner by the loathsome spiders; Trost is nowhere to be seen. The necromancer turns to face you. He screams a curse, his hands weaving shapes in the air. You draw a weapon and press forward, but you are literally frozen in your tracks. Frost sparkles on your hair and clothing; ice sheens your eyes. Your breath comes in misty clouds as you labour to stay conscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hope returns and your spirits rise with the expectation of finding the lost temple beyond the isle of red rock. You set off without delay, anxious to cover the ten-mile trek before the sun sets and darkness engulfs the Danarg.</p>
- <p>For the most part the swamp mire is firm underfoot and the inhabitants pose no problems that cannot be solved by a few shouts or well-placed weapon blows. But, as the sky darkens and you draw nearer to the plateau, the going becomes more difficult. A carpet of vines, thick with mould, covers a surface of muddy holes and hollows. Often a seeming puddle proves to be a bottomless fissure. Progress becomes so slow that you fear you will never reach the island before dark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear approaching footfalls and the yap of hounds in the distance. Without further delay, you pull yourself through the hatch and tumble into the kitchen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a crash, the tavern door slams shut and once more you find yourself outside in the teeming rain. <quote>A warm-hearted bunch these plains folk,</quote> jokes Paido, as you trudge through the mud to the stables. <quote>Do you think they'd object if I asked for my food back?</quote></p>
- <p>You smile at his jauntiness, but you know that all his provisions now lie scattered on the tavern floor. You can rely on your basic Kai Discipline of Hunting to provide you with nourishment, but Paido also needs food to sustain him. If you have a Meal in your Backpack you must give it to Paido (remember to delete it from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) before continuing your journey northwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido's condition deteriorates rapidly. His coma deepens until finally his heart and brain simply cease to function and he dies. Sadness fills your senses, and in the lonely confines of the passage, you mourn the loss of your brave companion. But grief soon turns to anger as you remember the base trickery which ended his life, and so nearly put an end to yours.</p>
- <p>A rage grows within you, fuelled by a need for revenge. You take Paido's sword and vow to avenge his death by washing it in the blood of his murderers. Heedless of caution and the warning cry of your senses, you pull a lever which activates the secret pedestal lift and return to the hall above in search of vengeance.</p>
- <p>As you reach the recess beneath the pulpit, you are transfixed by a blinding flash. A searing pain rips through your chest and a deafening bang rings in your ears. Three monks, armed with Bor muskets, have lain in wait in case you reappeared. It seems that their wait was not in vain.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The undergrowth stops abruptly at the edge of a gorge. A gust of chill air wafts up from the yawning blackness as you totter on the brink.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Primate, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If it is 5&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido's plan works perfectly. The guards are too busy checking the passengers to notice that there are two extra herdsmen with the consignment of horses. You slip into Tharro unnoticed and find yourselves in River Gate Square. Three streets lead away from the square: Copperpiece Lane, Flagon Alley and Globe Walk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to go west into Copperpiece Lane, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to go north-west into Flagon Alley, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to go north into Globe Walk, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you step into the cabin you are attacked by a man wielding a pick-axe handle. He is a lean, hollow-eyed rogue with a vivid scar, which runs in a ragged line from his forehead to his chin. He shouts a curse and makes a swing for your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rogue Miner</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the first two rounds of combat due to the surprise of the attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An hour passes before Paido's sharp eyes catch sight of a river barge in the distance. A team of bedraggled ghorkas are hauling the vessel upstream, seemingly unaffected by the storm-strengthened flow. Eventually it arrives at the jetty and stops to allow a motley assortment of peasants and travellers to disembark.</p>
- <p><quote>You two goin' to Tharro?</quote> shouts the barge captain. <quote>The fare's 40 Lune a-piece, an' that includes y'horses.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to board the barge, pay the captain 40 Lune (or 10 Gold Crowns) and <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you do not want to board the barge, or if you cannot afford the fare, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A froth of green scum marks the edge of the pool, and you use it as a guide to avoid stepping too close to the water. On your left, the pools become more numerous until you find yourselves walking a narrow strip of mossy mounds flanked by dark water.</p>
- <p><quote>By the gods!</quote> grumbles Paido, slapping insects from his face. <quote>How I wish for some good solid ground rather than this spongy muck!</quote></p>
- <p>As if in answer to his request you see a spur of volcanic rock looming out of the mud ahead, forming a causeway above the pools of greasy water. You follow it and soon it splits in two: one spur disappears to the west, the other continues to the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to take the west spur, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to continue along the south spur, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The red-skinned fruit is the size of an orange and its peel is similar in texture to orange peel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you wish to pick one of these juicy-looking fruits, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide not to touch the fruits, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You empty the tankard in one go and wipe the froth from your lips. Seconds later the floor of the hold begins to rock from side to side, gently at first, but gathering momentum until you are forced to cling to the table to prevent yourself from falling over. The other passengers seem unaffected by the violent pitching and rolling, as if their feet were nailed to the deck. You shout a warning that the barge is about to sink, that they should try to save themselves before it is too late. They cackle and sneer at your concern for their safety, their faces growing larger and more grotesque and the sound of their laughter building to a deafening crescendo. A man in a red coat looms before you, his face twisted and deformed. He grabs your shoulders and you feel his fingers sink painlessly into your flesh. Recoiling in horror, you draw a hand weapon to defend yourself from this frightening apparition. As you step forward to strike a blow, a wave of giddiness robs you of all balance and you crash headlong to the floor.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The other passengers cackle and sneer, their<br />faces growing larger and more grotesque</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The whistle of your arrow can be heard above the rumbling hoofbeats of the approaching cavalry. It flies straight and true, tearing through the chainmail links that protect the leader's throat. The sudden pain makes him snatch at his reins, and his horse falters, stumbles, then falls. The wounded leader is flung forward over the horse's head, and he crashes into the ground with a sickening crunch. With their leader slain, the morale of the other men is badly shaken. They break off their ambush, wheeling their horses about and galloping away in disorder.</p>
- <p><quote>Let us fly,</quote> shouts Paido, <quote>before they regroup and strike again.</quote> You shoulder your bow and follow Paido as he leaves the track and rides along the stream to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bowyery owner, a bony man with a ratty beard and moustache, which he habitually tugs whilst talking, takes a special interest in your silver bow. He asks if he may have the pleasure of firing a flight of arrows using your bow. There is an indoor archery range at the rear of his bowyery, and he invites you to come and make use of it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to follow him into the archery range and let him use your bow, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you refuse his request, you can leave the bowyery and continue; <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>First through the archway comes a brace of hunting dogs. They lope along the central aisle with unnerving speed, their jaws agape and their eyes open wide with the excitement of the hunt. As they see you they increase their speed and get ready to pounce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you have a bow and <em>two</em> arrows and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have a bow, you must prepare yourself for combat, for the dogs are almost upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hunting Dogs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the mill two great granite stones grind corn at a terrific speed, powered by the flow of the swollen stream water. A ladder ascends through a hole in the ceiling to a tiny room above the milling chamber. It is sparsely furnished&emdash;only a bed, a chair and a wooden chest occupy the dusty garret.</p>
- <p>The chest contains a Map of Tharro, enough food for 1 Meal and an Axe. You may take any of these items but remember to record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">To leave the mill and continue your ride north, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido is leading the way across a tangled mat of barbed vines when a wave disturbs the muddy ooze below. Suddenly the great head of a silver swamp python bursts through the rotting creepers and raises its tree-thick coils high in the air. Awesome jaws set with double-tiered fangs tower above you, glistening in the fading light. A drop of venom falls from the fangs and sets the quagmire boiling.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Suddenly the great head of a silver swamp<br />python bursts through the rotting creepers</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you do not have this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect308-1-foot" idref="sect308-1">
- <p>It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cold blue fire burns at the tip of the Helghast's staff, but the chill of its icy flame is thawed by the golden fire of the sun-sword. Sword and staff collide with a deafening boom and a crackling web of energy surrounds you both, scorching the refectory walls with its blistering intensity.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnaag Helghast</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><a id="sect308-1" idref="sect308-1-foot" class="footnote" /> by 2 points at the beginning of every round you fight this creature. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit you may increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight. Remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained by the enemy due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Paido covers your escape with his battle-magic, wafting a blinding sheet of flame towards your pursuer. You seize the opportunity to dive into the thick undergrowth bordering the track. Paido notes your escape and together you crawl towards the cover of the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111"><link-text>Turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The necromancer sidesteps into the shadows as you prepare for your second shot. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If your total is now 0&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and Paido wheel your horses around and follow the crest of the ridge. Expertly, you manage to steer them down a steep bank of loose shale, and then on at a brisk pace along a dried-out gully. Soon the gully becomes a stream of sparkling water, fed by an underground spring. A rumble, like the sound of a distant storm, warns you that the vast army of Zegron, Warchief of Ogia, is now less than twenty miles away.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect127.gif" width="295" height="179" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect127.pdf" width="295" height="179" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you open the black book. The pages are made of metal, as thin and flexible as silk-weave parchment. Complex words and symbols are etched into its shiny surface with an ink that shimmers like sunlight on the sea. The strange designs are unlike any you have ever seen before, but you sense that they are wholly evil.</p>
- <p>You are about to discard the book when you notice something tucked into the spine: it is a tiny scroll of parchment. You unfurl it and your pulse quickens, for it contains a message written in Giak, the language used by servants of the Darklords.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect312.gif" width="328" height="154" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect312.pdf" width="328" height="154" />
- </illustration>
- <p>If you wish to keep this scroll, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item that you keep in your pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the twitching body of the Xlorg and help Paido, who is being forced perilously close to the pool's edge by three more of the growling swamp creatures. You strike from behind, breaking the back of one with your downstroke and opening the side of another as you swing your weapon clear.</p>
- <p>Paido falls, clutching an arm deeply torn by needle-sharp talons. His attacker turns on you, darting its head towards your throat with lightning speed. Its jaws gape wide as it lashes out with a sticky tongue, spraying your eyes with stinging saliva. Instinctively you bend forward, your hands wiping the spittle from your face, a reflex action which saves you from the creature's grip as it leaps forward to strangle you. Suddenly it lets out a gurgling croak and falls forward with a thick splash. You stagger back and open your bloodshot eyes to see it lying face down in the mire with Paido's dagger embedded in its back. <quote>Look out!</quote> screams your companion, as the last of the Xlorg attacks you from behind.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Xlorg</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab hold of Paido's sword arm and tell him to cool his temper. The man is wearing a red surcoat embroidered with a crest depicting a castle and an open hand: it is the uniform of the Tharro garrison. Quietly you advise Paido that to brawl with this man could endanger your quest. Paido relaxes and apologizes to the soldier, offering to buy him an ale to make amends. The man accepts the offer but on one condition&emdash;that the ale is not Ferina Nog!</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>The man is wearing the uniform of the Tharro garrison</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="685" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="685" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scoop up the water with your hands, eager to feel the cool, fresh liquid against your skin. But instead of the expected refreshing sensation, you feel a revolting, jelly-like stickiness. The edges of the pool roll inwards, revealing an egg-like creature lurking in the hollow below. Suddenly a snaky tendril lashes upwards from a hole in its shell and wraps itself around your throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Row upon row of glass-fronted cases fill the shop. They house many thousands of curios, each one bearing a tag neatly displaying the price of the item. There is scroll parchment for spells, cubes of rare metal, amulets, talismans, ritual candles, potions and powders, rings and rods and relics of long-dead heroes.</p>
- <p>The display is fascinating but your attention is drawn to one item in particular&emdash;a ring of translucent grey crystal. Your basic Kai senses reveal that nearly all the mystical items for sale in the shop are simply clever fakes designed to fool the gullible, but the Grey Crystal Ring radiates an energy that is genuinely magical. The price of the Grey Crystal Ring is 120 Lune.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you wish to purchase the Ring, pay the merchant 120 Lune (or 30 Gold Crowns) and <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to purchase the Ring but cannot afford 120 Lune, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you do not wish to purchase the Ring, you may leave the shop and continue along the street by <link-text>turning to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>His weakening pulse warns you that unless he receives an antidote or a healing potion, he will be dead within the hour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you have any Laumspur, Rendalim's Elixir, or Oede herb, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you do not have any of these healing potions, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rain beats down relentlessly as you ride the featureless highway to Tharro. Thunder rumbles over the western hills like the growl of Doomwolves stalking their prey. Gradually the muddy road descends into a wide valley and a track joins it from the east. A battered signpost at the junction points along the track. It says:</p>
- <signpost>TOPHAM&emdash;9 MILES</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you wish to change direction and ride east, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you choose to continue your ride north to Tharro, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that these cubes are set to explode. Should one of them cause a tear in the Levitron's pressure tank, the liquid gas stored inside will ignite and the resulting explosion will tear the skyship to pieces.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to gather up the black cubes and throw them overboard, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to help Paido fight off his attackers first, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use all your skill and ability to try to save your companion's life. Placing your hands on his chest, you transfer the warmth of your healing power into Paido's poisoned body, breaking down the toxin by degrees. The treatment is slow and laborious, and it is dawn of the following day before you know for sure if your skill has saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rogue slumps dead at your feet. Seconds later the door to the back room splinters and breaks as Paido hacks through it with his sword.</p>
- <p><quote>What kept you so long?</quote> you ask cheekily, when finally the door gives way and he staggers, sweating and exhausted, into the room. He smiles ruefully and, after pausing to get his breath back, he invites you to come and see what he has found in the back room. Small sacks, each filled with nuggets of silver, are stacked in a huge mound that reaches almost to the ceiling.</p>
- <p><quote>No wonder he fought so desperately,</quote> you say, staring at this hoard of treasure. <quote>There's enough silver here to pay a king's ransom.</quote></p>
- <p>You may take some treasure before you leave&emdash;each Sack of Silver counts as one Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to leave the cabin and continue up the valley, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to investigate the mine, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that something is seriously wrong. The wound is deep but you have survived worse than this. Suddenly you realize the dreadful truth, as you recall an element of your early Kai training. Your arm has become infected with korovax, a virulent disease that thrives in the soil of northern Talestria. Its effect is swift and fatal.</p>
- <p>Your muscles start to contract uncontrollably and coordinated movement becomes increasingly difficult. Fear holds you in its icy grip as your chest muscles tighten, squeezing the air from your lungs. You fight for breath but within minutes you have slipped beyond unconsciousness into the timeless embrace of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow fells the leading monk, pinning his forearm to his chest. The others falter, stepping back to stare at their slain brother and the smouldering remains of the Helghast. <quote>What manner of demon are you?</quote> asks one, incredulously.</p>
- <p><quote>A murdering sorcerer!</quote> says the monk at his side.</p>
- <p><quote>A soulless butcher!</quote> accuses another.</p>
- <p>For all their bitterness you sense that these monks were unaware of their leader's true identity. They believe you came here tonight to murder their master, and his smoking remains convince them that you have accomplished your goal. Before you can utter a word, they draw short swords and attack you, raving like men possessed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Monks of the Sword</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the swiftness of their attack, you must fight the first two rounds of combat unarmed before you are able to draw a hand weapon. Because of their state of frenzy, they are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">You may evade after three rounds of combat by pulling yourself through the hatch; <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Waiting until the last possible moment, you release your arrow, sending it burrowing deep into the creature's eye. It roars with pain, its legs scrabbling the mud as it sways and then crashes down with a mighty splash. You do not wait to see if your shot proved fatal but shoulder your bow immediately and follow Paido as he picks up the signal from the temple's spire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden chill makes you shiver (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). <quote>Are you all right?</quote> asks Paido. <quote>Perhaps we should go below and shelter from this filthy storm.</quote> You answer with a nod and follow him down the taproom stairs to the welcoming warmth of the hold. The soldier Trost greets you on your return but you fail to notice him&emdash;you are too busy scanning the hold for the stranger. You see him, seated alone in a shadowy corner opposite your table, quietly reading his black book.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense detects a pocket of marsh gas further along the south spur. Your Magnakai Discipline would protect you from it, but Paido would be vulnerable to its harmful effects.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you choose to continue along the south spur, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you decide to take the west spur, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the left of the main door you notice three symbols engraved in the speckled blue stone: a bed, a horse and a loaf of bread. You recognize their significance, for you have seen similar markings on hostels and monasteries during your travels in the east. By displaying these symbols the monks of this temple offer travellers a meal, stabling for their horses, and a bed for the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you wish to take advantage of this offer, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you choose not to stay here overnight, you can investigate the watchtower by <link-text>turning to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lift Paido across your shoulders once more and return to the rear of the hall to investigate the locked door. As you pass the pulpit your sixth sense is aroused by the feeling that this podium is not all that it seems. Curiosity conquers caution and you stop to examine it more closely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I wish to see Tadia,</quote> you say, bowing politely so as not to appear threatening to the frail old crone. <quote>Are you the fair lady I seek?</quote></p>
- <p>A smile crumples her face and a blush, like an angry bruise, discolours her leathery cheeks. <quote>I am her mother,</quote> she says coyly. <quote>What is it you wish to see her about?</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can answer, a young woman's voice calls from inside the house, <quote>Show them in, mother. I've been expecting them.</quote></p>
- <p>The old woman leads you and Paido to a room at the top of the stairs. Books and charts, stacked high on shelves and scattered about the floor, fill the room which is illuminated by daylight streaming through a domed portal in the ceiling. A massive bronze telescope is fixed to the portal and below it rests a circular table of carved bone set with gems. Seated at the table is a beautiful young woman. Her hair is silken gold, and around her high, pale forehead she wears a circlet of jet inlaid with runes and mystic symbols.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>Tadia wears a circlet of jet inlaid with runes and mystic symbols</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="681" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="681" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A full moon and a cloudless sky make your passage along this secret path much easier. It follows a tortuous route through the tall plants, around mossy mounds full of crawling insects, past the dark entrances to underground warrens, and skirts the fringe of a thicket of trees. Paido halts and crouches down, ignoring the bloated spiders that scuttle around his knees, and points through a gap in the trees to a settlement of crudely made huts. Dark shapes move between them, human once, but far from human now. <quote>Ghagrim,</quote> whispers Paido, with fear in his voice. <quote>The man-beasts of the Danarg.</quote></p>
- <p>In the distant past the Ghagrim were a gentle, primitive folk, who lived as one with the animals and the birds, cared for by the Elder Magi in their jungle paradise. But the Danarg has changed and so too have the Ghagrim, poisoned by the evil that conquered the land.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to approach the huts, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you choose to avoid the Ghagrim and continue along the secret track, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unhook a flask of water attached to Paido's belt, tip your healing potion into it and shake it vigorously. Carefully you tilt back Paido's head and pour the mixture into his mouth, a drop at a time: in his comatose state he is unable to cough and it would be easy to fill his lungs by accident. It is a slow and painstaking process, which takes hours to complete.</p>
- <p>It is dawn of the following day before you know for sure if you have saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night is closing in and the shops that line the narrow street are shutting their doors. Lanterns flare into life, their yellow glow warming the chill west wind as the townsfolk return to their homes at the end of another day's trading. But there is one shop where the doors remain open. The sign hanging from its balcony reads:</p>
- <signpost>RHOLA RHADA&emdash;MAPMAKER</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you wish to enter the shop, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you prefer to continue along the street, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The slimy stench of the creature drives your horse wild with fear, forcing you to dismount and advance along the tree-bridge to meet it. Suddenly there is a fearful cry as your panic-stricken horse careers backwards into Paido's mount. He fights to keep control of his own frightened horse but the panic is infectious and, with a crack of splintering wood, their stamping hooves split the edge of the tree-bridge. You watch with horror as both horses fall headlong into the watery abyss. Paido leaps from his mount as it falls, grabbing hold of the edge of the splintered wood, but it is wet and you can see his fingers slipping. Instinctively you move to save him, but the stinging lash of a clawed paw reminds you of the creature you must face first.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Anapheg</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the combat, for the creature is also attacking you with the power of its mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hiss of the crossbolt surges in your ear as it passes within inches of your skull. Paido leaps to his feet, his jaw agape at the speed with which you reacted to the deadly missile. He shakes his head in disbelief and draws a dagger from his sleeve, hurling it at the dwarf in one fluid movement. It sinks into his black beard and sends him tumbling backwards. He reappears for an instant, trying desperately to dislodge the blade buried deep in his throat with his fingers, but he has suffered a fatal wound. He gurgles his death-cry and drops to the floor, his flailing arms bringing down a shelf full of bottles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A full moon bathes the island in its ashen rays, maintaining perpetual twilight. The trail enters a dense thicket of trees, and you can see that it leads to a settlement of crudely made huts. Dark shapes move between them, human once, but far from human now.</p>
- <p><quote>Ghagrim,</quote> says Paido softly but with fear in his voice, <quote>the man-beasts of the Danarg. Come, let's get away from here while we still can.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect272"><link-text>Turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stew tastes as good as it smells, and you both make short work of your meal. The monks smile and nod their heads approvingly. <quote>Come, the dean wishes to see you before you retire,</quote> says one, motioning you to follow as they leave the refectory.</p>
- <p>The dean's chamber is a domed, hexagonal room hung with tapestries depicting strange and grotesque creatures. Numerous plinths stand upon the richly carpeted floor, each supporting large bowls filled to the brim with a silvery liquid. A gust of air disturbs the tapestry on the far wall. Seconds later it is moved aside to reveal an elderly man in a hooded black robe.</p>
- <p><quote>Have you eaten?</quote> he asks, his voice strangely cold and monotonal.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, master,</quote> the monks reply with one voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Good,</quote> he says, stepping closer. <quote>Leave us.</quote> The monks depart, clicking the door shut behind them. Gradually the light in the chamber grows dimmer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the black crystal cubes lying on the deck suddenly explodes, sending a cloud of crystal shards screaming through the air. You are hit in the leg by this shrapnel&emdash;lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>With horror you realize that if one of these deadly cubes should puncture the Levitron's pressure tank, the skyship will be torn to pieces in the resulting explosion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to gather up all the remaining crystals and throw them overboard, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you wish to help Paido fight off his Vordak attackers first, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect338-1-foot" idref="sect338-1">
- <p>If you wish to make a guess, go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect133">Section 133</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>And finally, for my last puzzle, I offer this beautiful treasure,</quote> he says, as he draws a small silver box inlaid with pearls from the pocket of his robes. <quote>This priceless artefact was stolen from the treasure hoard of Valborg the Enchanter,</quote> he exclaims.</p>
- <p>On hearing this wondrous revelation the tap-room comes alive with excited chatter. You are inclined to disbelieve the tale of the box's origin but, nevertheless, it is a beautiful object and is undoubtedly worth at least 100 Lune, perhaps more.</p>
- <p>Silence descends on the hold as all await the Count's final puzzle. <quote>When I was last in the market of Garthen,</quote> the Count begins, <quote>I asked an egg trader how many eggs he had sold that day. He replied: <quote>My first customer said that he would buy half my eggs and half an egg more. My second and third customers said exactly the same thing. When I had filled all three orders I was completely sold out of eggs and yet I hadn't broken a single egg all day.</quote> How many eggs had the egg trader sold in all?</quote></p>
- <choice>If you can answer the egg riddle, turn to the entry number that is the same number as the answer.<a id="sect338-1" idref="sect338-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you cannot answer the riddle, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>They snicker with malice as you approach slowly, your weapon held in readiness in case they attack. The smell of the marsh gas ties a knot in your stomach as you move deeper into the cloud. Paido halts; he can go no further. He drops to his knees and is violently sick. The creatures make a sound like laughter and slink forward to meet you in combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rahgu</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">33</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the rank of Primate, deduct 8 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight, due to the insidious effect of the marsh gas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">You may evade after three rounds of combat; <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is unlocked. You flick the latch with the toe of your boot and enter a gloomy passage that descends to a cellar. Casks of ale and dusty bottles of vintage wine fill the cubby-holed walls as far as your eye can see. Thick, vaulted columns support the ceiling, and the air is sweet with the smell of burning tallow.</p>
- <p>You kneel and rest Paido against the cellar wall while you examine the glass vial you found in the kitchen. Your fears and suspicions are immediately confirmed&emdash;it contains poison. The clear, sticky fluid is sap from the gnadurn tree, a substance frequently used by assassins because of its lack of flavour or scent. The monks must have put some of this poison in the stew that Paido unwittingly consumed. The sap is deadly and you must act swiftly if you are to save his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the innkeeper is hiding behind the bar with a loaded crossbow in his hands, just waiting for the chance to fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to hurl a Fireseed over the counter, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to shout a warning to Paido, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You urge your horse up the steep bank and across the fallen branches that litter the trail beyond. Less than a mile from the brook you hear the sound of rushing water. The track bears north and you see a roaring waterfall cascading into a rocky pool, its surface lost in a cloud of fine spray. A huge tree has fallen across the pool, creating a bridge, and the track leads straight to it. You are halfway across the tree-bridge, looking down at the swirling spray and foaming water below, when a ghastly howl rings out above the thunder of the waterfall. You look up and stare slack-jawed at the creature that is advancing towards you across the tree-bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212"><link-text>Turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in the presence of great evil. Your skin prickles and your blood runs cold as you recoil at this sudden realization. But alarm soon turns to fear as a new threat begins to manifest itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull Paido to his feet and help him along the causeway, leaving behind the dead Rahgu and the stinking cloud of gas. The volcanic spur soon comes to an abrupt halt, its jagged edge overhanging a sprawling tangle of reeds, marsh thistles and black moss. The pools of dark water are few, but the hazards are more than ever before.</p>
- <p><quote>The brown patches,</quote> says Paido, his voice hoarse from the effects of the gas, <quote>are quicksands.</quote> He points to where the marsh weeds are sparse and the ground pale and sandy. You stand and count the little tan-coloured patches but give up when you reach fifty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to try to cross this quicksand bog, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you decide to return to the junction and take the west spur, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill you increase your metabolism, burning your reserves of body fat to counter the effect of the necromancer's freezing spell. In seconds the frost and ice have gone, thawed by the heat that emanates from your body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A Ghagrim lopes towards you, fixing you with a ghastly stare. It slavers and drools through thick grey lips as it licks the blade of its rusty iron sword. With a chilling howl it issues its battle-cry and closes to attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- <description>A Ghagrim lopes towards you fixing you with a ghastly stare</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="648" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="648" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Ghagrim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect309">You can evade combat after three rounds; <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The north gate guards, tired after the long night's watch, grumble wearily at your demand for the gate to be opened. <quote>What's the hurry?</quote> growls one guardsman.</p>
- <p><quote>Matter o' life and death is it?</quote> sneers the other.</p>
- <p>The portcullis finally clanks open and you leave the town, riding the broken dirt track towards the distant hills and the frontier town of Syada. Grey-brown grasses brush your shins as you cross this wild, uncultivated plain. Accompanying your ride is an unnatural silence which is broken only occasionally by the cawing of ravens circling like vultures overhead.</p>
- <p>By midday you are among the hills. The terrain becomes increasingly rocky, undulating like a storm-tossed ocean. The tall plains grass has given way to sad little plants, scraggy and deformed, stunted by the winds that sweep down from the barren wastes of Ogia. The track passes through a narrow valley where a small stone cabin stands beside the entrance to a disused mine shaft. As you approach the cabin you see a face at the window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to stop at the cabin, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you wish to investigate the mine, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to continue along the valley, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We had best delay no longer, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Paido, looking anxiously at the afternoon sky. <quote>The highway's no place to be after dark and we're still a long ride from Tharro.</quote> You nod your agreement and spur your horse along the track towards the village of Topham.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you possess a Lodestone, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a bottle from the rack, crack it open against the wall and tip the Laumspur into the remaining wine. Carefully you tilt back Paido's head and pour the mixture into his open mouth, a drop at a time: in his comatose state he is unable to cough and it would be easy to fill his lungs by accident. It is a slow and painstaking process, which takes you hours to complete.</p>
- <p>It is dawn of the following day before you know for sure if you have saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Anger and frustration well up inside you as helplessly you watch the Kraan and your captured companion disappear beyond the horizon. Gradually your anger gives way to sadness as you ponder his fate and wonder if he will ever survive this cruel abduction. You pray for his safety, calling on the spirits of your ancestors to watch over and protect him and, as if in answer to your prayer, you feel a sudden calm engulf your senses. The power of the Lorestone, transfused into your being the instant it appeared in your hands, has greatly increased your intellect and awareness. With confidence you know that Paido will survive his ordeal and that one day you will meet and fight again, side by side.</p>
- <p>The return voyage to Dessi is a swift but lonely journey. The starguider ensures that the Levitron stays on course for Elzian and as you cross the canal which encircles the city, a pilot skyship arrives to escort you down. During the voyage you have discovered how to control the Levitron, and now, as slowly you approach the landing platform of the Tower of Truth, you disengage the starguider and make a faultless landing. Lord Rimoah and the High Council have gathered to greet your return, and upon hearing of your successful quest their hopes for the future are renewed in spite of the sad news of Lord Paido's capture by agents of the Darklords.</p>
- <p>The High Council listens avidly as you recall your treacherous journey through Talestria, the perilous trek across the Danarg, and the wondrous discovery of their lost temple. When finally you have completed your account they applaud and pay tribute to your courage and daring, their faces beaming with pride. But, despite their joyous greeting, you sense that something is wrong; they seem distant, as if their minds were preoccupied with the solving of a difficult and perplexing problem.</p>
- <p>You ask Lord Rimoah if all is well, and he replies: <quote>You have grown in perception, Lone Wolf. Many things have occurred since last we spoke, and although your quest for the Lorestone of Ohrido has succeeded, the peril of our age has grown ever more deadly. The Darklords now wage open war throughout Magnamund, and many lands have fallen before their Giak legions. Talestria has been overrun. So too have the Stornland nations. Sommerlund stands firm against the armies of Darklord Gnaag, but she has lost her southern province of Ruanon.</quote></p>
- <p>This shocking news fills you with an urge to return to your homeland, yet to do so would defeat the Magnakai quest.</p>
- <p>Lord Rimoah bids you follow him to the chamber of the High Council. Set into the floor is a circular well, brimming with a silvery liquid metal. Rimoah kneels and touches the surface and slowly a vision takes form within the shimmering depths of the pool: it is a fortified city surrounded by rolling hills. <quote>You look upon the city of Tahou in the land of Anari,</quote> says Rimoah, his voice now solemn and composed. <quote>The Lorestone you must find next lies deep below its streets, in an ancient city that was built during the dawn of Magnamund.</quote></p>
- <p>The vision of Tahou heralds the start of a new and perilous episode in your quest for the Magnakai. If you possess the bravery and courage of a true Kai Master, the challenge of Tahou awaits you in Book 9 of the Lone Wolf series entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.09tcof;">The Cauldron of Fear</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Danarg Swamp</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Gary Chalk</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="781" height="594" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="781" height="594" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="162" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="aclore.gif" width="385" height="199" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
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- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced <quote>jungle swamps of Danarg</quote> with <quote>jungle-swamps of the Danarg</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>swamp-jungle</quote> with <quote>jungle-swamp</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the words from the language of Dessi (i.e. <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote> and <quote> on the last page of this book</quote>. Replaced all occurrences of <quote>Ie,</quote> with <quote>I.e.</quote>. Replaced <quote>(eg</quote> with <quote>(e.g.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>with combat</quote> with <quote>without combat</quote>, <quote>as listed overleaf</quote> with <quote>in the list below</quote>, and <quote>page 9</quote> with <quote>your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote> (see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Replaced <quote>swamp-jungle</quote> with <quote>jungle-swamp</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>. Capitalized <quote>bonuses</quote> in the title <quote>Lore-circle Bonuses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>, <quote>you to Danarg</quote> with <quote>you to the Danarg</quote>, <quote>attention and</quote> with <quote>attention, and</quote>, <quote>secret but</quote> with <quote>secret, but</quote>, <quote>still blue</quote> with <quote>still, blue</quote>, <quote>Dessi and, when</quote> with <quote>Dessi, and when</quote>, <quote>Ghorkas, hairy,</quote> with <quote>Ghorkas&emdash;hairy,</quote>, <quote>Slovia, which</quote> with <quote>Slovia&emdash;which</quote>, <quote>defence but</quote> with <quote>defence, but</quote> and <quote>ground and</quote> with <quote>ground, and</quote>. Removed <quote> at the front of the book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Moved the Psi-screen choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Replaced <quote>imminent but</quote> with <quote>imminent, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>ordeal and</quote> with <quote>ordeal, and</quote>, <quote>hidden but</quote> with <quote>hidden, but</quote>, <quote>identities and</quote> with <quote>identities, and</quote> and <quote>thought but</quote> with <quote>thought, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>skill you</quote> with <quote>skill, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>, <quote>258</quote> with <quote>158</quote>, and <quote>lasts longer than five rounds</quote> with <quote>lasts five rounds or longer</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>watch-tower</quote> with <quote>watchtower</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>hand and</quote> with <quote>hand, and</quote> and <quote>Unfortunately with</quote> with <quote>Unfortunately, with</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>answer and, at</quote> with <quote>answer, and at</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>around and</quote> with <quote>around, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Replaced <quote>Pass but</quote> with <quote>Pass, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>chest you</quote> with <quote>chest, you</quote> and <quote>laborious and</quote> with <quote>laborious, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>floor and</quote> with <quote>floor, and</quote> and <quote>portal and</quote> with <quote>portal, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) Replaced <quote>sets you</quote> with <quote>sets, you</quote> and <quote>tide and, during</quote> with <quote>tide, and during</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>watch-tower</quote> with <quote>watchtower</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>return but</quote> with <quote>return, but</quote> and <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>Syada and</quote> with <quote>Syada, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced <quote>vibrating and, what</quote> with <quote>vibrating, and what</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) Replaced <quote>inn and slowly</quote> with <quote>inn, and slowly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>legs and</quote> with <quote>legs, and</quote>. Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">28</a>) Switched the the sections to which the choices lead to make them work correctly with Special Item and Discipline bonuses.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote> and <quote>Sommerswerd.</quote> with <quote>Sommerswerd.)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>Oxydine, or Oede</quote> with <quote>Oxydine or of Oede</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>gallop and</quote> with <quote>gallop, and</quote>, <quote>and, not</quote> with <quote>and not</quote> and <quote>gate, do</quote> with <quote>gate do</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>glueing</quote> with <quote>gluing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote> and <quote>hides and</quote> with <quote>hides, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Switched the order of the choices for clarity.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>) Replaced <quote>me and</quote> with <quote>me, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect44">44</a>) Replaced <quote>Unfortunately she</quote> with <quote>Unfortunately, she</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced <quote>dead but</quote> with <quote>dead, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield you</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen, you</quote>, <quote>swamp-jungle</quote> with <quote>jungle-swamp</quote>, and <quote>Spirit you</quote> with <quote>Spirit, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>air, and</quote> with <quote>air and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>others many</quote> with <quote>others, many</quote> and <quote>apart and, as</quote> with <quote>apart, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) Replaced <quote>ago this</quote> with <quote>ago, this</quote>, <quote>luxurious but</quote> with <quote>luxurious, but</quote> and <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Replaced <quote>desperation one</quote> with <quote>desperation, one</quote> and <quote>Discipline</quote> with <quote>Disciplines</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>cloud and</quote> with <quote>cloud, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>korlinium and</quote> with <quote>korlinium, and</quote> and <quote>signals it</quote> with <quote>signals, it</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>confusion you</quote> with <quote>confusion, you</quote> and <quote>ribcage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Replaced <quote>light you</quote> with <quote>light, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>top he</quote> with <quote>top, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>mire but</quote> with <quote>mire, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Replaced <quote>darkness and</quote> with <quote>darkness, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>assailant and</quote> with <quote>assailant, and</quote> and <quote>ceases and</quote> with <quote>ceases, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect65">65</a>) Replaced <quote>fast but</quote> with <quote>fast, but</quote>, <quote>cheer but</quote> with <quote>cheer, but</quote> and <quote>companions he'll</quote> with <quote>companions, he'll</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) Replaced <quote>watch but</quote> with <quote>watch, but</quote> and <quote>later you</quote> with <quote>later, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>empty they</quote> with <quote>empty, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Replaced <quote>doom you</quote> with <quote>doom, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Replaced <quote>storm.'</quote> with <quote>storm.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>blast and</quote> with <quote>blast, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>Divination, or</quote> with <quote>Divination or</quote>. Moved the Divination/Tutelary choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>market place</quote> with <quote>marketplace</quote>, <quote>Lodge but</quote> with <quote>Lodge, but</quote>, <quote>watch-tower</quote> with <quote>watchtower</quote>, and <quote>sword and</quote> with <quote>sword, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>) Replaced <quote>burial and</quote> with <quote>burial, and</quote>. Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Replaced <quote>hand but</quote> with <quote>hand, but</quote>, <quote>returns and</quote> with <quote>returns, and</quote> and <quote>pain, as</quote> with <quote>pain as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-power</quote> with <quote>psi-power</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Replaced <quote>face but</quote> with <quote>face, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>bow but</quote> with <quote>bow, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>crash and</quote> with <quote>crash, and</quote> and <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote>. Replaced <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote> and <quote>bronze-helmeted</quote> with <quote>bronze-helmed</quote> in the illustration's caption.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) Replaced <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>rest but</quote> with <quote>rest, but</quote> and <quote>Both you,</quote> with <quote>You,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>) Replaced <quote>grip and</quote> with <quote>grip, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>, <quote>pot-holed</quote> with <quote>potholed</quote>, and <quote>plain and</quote> with <quote>plain, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced <quote>demand but</quote> with <quote>demand, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Replaced <quote>ordeal and</quote> with <quote>ordeal, and</quote>, <quote>hidden but</quote> with <quote>hidden, but</quote>, <quote>agreement and, as</quote> with <quote>agreement, and as</quote> and <quote>lock and</quote> with <quote>lock, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Replaced <quote>mire and</quote> with <quote>mire, and</quote> and <quote>north and, for</quote> with <quote>north, and for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>horseback) <typ class="attribute">COMBAT</typ></quote> with <quote>horseback): <typ class="attribute">COMBAT</typ></quote> and <quote>Control you</quote> with <quote>Control, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>) Replaced <quote>flat and</quote> with <quote>flat, and</quote> and <quote>light you</quote> with <quote>light, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>haze and</quote> with <quote>haze, and</quote>, <quote>roadside and</quote> with <quote>roadside, and</quote>, <quote>darkening and</quote> with <quote>darkening, and</quote>, <quote>drenched and</quote> with <quote>drenched, and</quote>, <quote>torrent and</quote> with <quote>torrent, and</quote> and <quote>rain you</quote> with <quote>rain, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>him and</quote> with <quote>him, and</quote> and <quote>frenzy the</quote> with <quote>frenzy, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>chance you tumble</quote> with <quote>chance, you stumble</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Replaced <quote>above and</quote> with <quote>above, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>, <quote>blood and, with</quote> with <quote>blood, and with</quote> and <quote>haze you</quote> with <quote>haze, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>Paido and</quote> with <quote>Paido, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>Instead their</quote> with <quote>Instead, their</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Replaced <quote>midnight his</quote> with <quote>midnight, his</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Replaced <quote>handiwork they</quote> with <quote>handiwork, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>creatures sit</quote> with <quote>creatures sits</quote> and <quote>green spindly</quote> with <quote>green, spindly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Changed the first choice to read in part <quote>If you have another arrow and wish to use it,&ellips;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>ale the</quote> with <quote>ale, the</quote> and <quote>amusement he</quote> with <quote>amusement, he</quote> and <quote>conundrum</quote> with <quote>conundrums</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Replaced <quote>yell they</quote> with <quote>yell, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>shut and</quote> with <quote>shut, and</quote> and <quote>demand but</quote> with <quote>demand, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>Taan-spider you</quote> with <quote>Taan-spider, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Replaced <quote>minutes but</quote> with <quote>minutes, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Replaced <quote>bridge you</quote> with <quote>bridge, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Replaced <quote>gate a</quote> with <quote>gate, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>splash he</quote> with <quote>splash, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>incline and, as</quote> with <quote>incline, and as</quote>. Moved the Pathsmanship choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>men and</quote> with <quote>men, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>inn and</quote> with <quote>inn, and</quote> and <quote>wheatcakes</quote> with <quote>wheat cakes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>) Replaced <quote>curing surpresses</quote> with <quote>Curing suppresses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>steadily and</quote> with <quote>steadily, and</quote> and <quote>inhabitants but</quote> with <quote>inhabitants, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>choose.</quote> with <quote>choose?</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>around your</quote> with <quote>around, your</quote>, <quote>tap but, instead</quote> with <quote>tap, but instead</quote> and <quote>click and</quote> with <quote>click, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>air and</quote> with <quote>air, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>) Replaced <quote>herb the</quote> with <quote>herb, the</quote> and <quote>Oxydene</quote> with <quote>Oxydine</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Replaced <quote>deadly and</quote> with <quote>deadly, and</quote>, replaced <quote>Pulpit</quote> with <quote>pulpit</quote> and moved the <quote>or</quote> in the choices to the beginning of the last choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Replaced <quote>dead writhing</quote> with <quote>dead, writhing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>) Replaced <quote>explodes and</quote> with <quote>explodes, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>) Replaced <quote>aside but</quote> with <quote>aside, but</quote>, <quote>him but</quote> with <quote>him, but</quote>, <quote>inside and</quote> with <quote>inside, and</quote>, <quote>Bor-musket</quote> with <quote>Bor musket</quote>, and <quote>trigger and</quote> with <quote>trigger, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>Dazudskul</quote> with <quote>Dazudskul.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>fortune whispers</quote> with <quote>fortune,' whispers</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect168">168</a>) Replaced <quote>counter and</quote> with <quote>counter, and</quote> put dashes between each Item on the list and its price and replaced <quote>arrows and</quote> with <quote>arrows, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>, <quote>duck and</quote> with <quote>duck, and</quote>, and <quote>clawed skeletal</quote> with <quote>clawed, skeletal</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Replaced <quote>him and</quote> with <quote>him, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>north and, for</quote> with <quote>north, and for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Replaced <quote>trigger and</quote> with <quote>trigger, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Replaced <quote>starguider but</quote> with <quote>starguider, but</quote> and <quote>192</quote> with <quote>292</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect178">178</a>) Replaced <quote>chest you</quote> with <quote>chest, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect179">179</a>) Replaced <quote>book but</quote> with <quote>book, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>) Replaced <quote>pain it</quote> with <quote>pain, it</quote> and <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-screen you</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen, you</quote> and <quote>Lore-Circle of the Spirit you</quote> with <quote>Lore-circle of the Spirit, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>true but</quote> with <quote>true, but</quote>, <quote>wound but</quote> with <quote>wound, but</quote> and <quote>clothing and</quote> with <quote>clothing, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>chase but</quote> with <quote>chase, but</quote>, <quote>harrass</quote> with <quote>harass</quote> and <quote>chase, they</quote> with <quote>chase; they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote> and <quote>eyes you</quote> with <quote>eyes, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Replaced <quote>grip and</quote> with <quote>grip, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect188">188</a>) Replaced <quote>wheatcakes</quote> with <quote>wheat cakes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>past a</quote> with <quote>past, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon but</quote> with <quote>weapon, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>) Moved the Pathsmanship/Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Replaced <quote>ground and</quote> with <quote>ground, and</quote> and <quote>korlinium and</quote> with <quote>korlinium, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>occurred, but</quote> with <quote>occurred, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>aside and</quote> with <quote>aside, and</quote> and <quote>glowing silvery</quote> with <quote>glowing, silvery</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>remains and</quote> with <quote>remains, and</quote> and <quote>robes presumably</quote> with <quote>robes, presumably</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>watch-tower</quote> with <quote>watchtower</quote>. Moved the map choice into the first position and the Pathsmanship choice into the second position. Replaced <quote>options;</quote> with <quote>options:</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>being but</quote> with <quote>being, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>eg,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>. Added <quote>spear</quote> to the list of edged weapons.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Replaced <quote>few but</quote> with <quote>few, but</quote>. Moved the Divination choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>) Replaced <quote>turn to 235</quote> with <quote>turn to 253</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>) Replaced <quote>symmetry confront</quote> with <quote>symmetry, confront</quote> and <quote>stratas</quote> with <quote>strata</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>) Replaced <quote>subsides but</quote> with <quote>subsides, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>dwarf. They're</quote> with <quote>dwarf. 'They're</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>Luukos and</quote> with <quote>Luukos, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>rail and</quote> with <quote>rail, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) Replaced <quote>wait</quote> with <quote>await</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>stomach and</quote> with <quote>stomach, and</quote>, <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>, and <quote>bank and</quote> with <quote>bank, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>these and, judging</quote> with <quote>these, and judging</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced <quote>flame and</quote> with <quote>flame, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>) Replaced <quote>dead-ends</quote> with <quote>dead ends</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>membrane and</quote> with <quote>membrane, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Replaced <quote>wings and</quote> with <quote>wings, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Replaced <quote>horses abroad</quote> with <quote>horses aboard</quote> and <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>worth but</quote> with <quote>worth, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect274">274</a>) Replaced <quote>uneventfully and, as</quote> with <quote>uneventfully, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>) Replaced <quote>deceased but</quote> with <quote>deceased, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>attack but</quote> with <quote>attack, but</quote> and <quote>again but</quote> with <quote>again, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Replaced <quote>sharp rending</quote> with <quote>sharp, rending</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>) Replaced <quote>Evaine but</quote> with <quote>Evaine, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect281">281</a>) Replaced <quote>poison but</quote> with <quote>poison, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote>Half-way</quote> with <quote>Halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>) Replaced <quote>hidden but</quote> with <quote>hidden, but</quote> and <quote>identities and</quote> with <quote>identities, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>legs and</quote> with <quote>legs, and</quote> and removed the last choice which was essentially the same as that in <a idref="sect39">Section 39</a> and therefore redundant.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>) Replaced <quote>forward but</quote> with <quote>forward, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>jauntiness but</quote> with <quote>jauntiness, but</quote> and <quote>discipline of hunting</quote> with <quote>Discipline of Hunting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>) Replaced <quote>senses and, in</quote> with <quote>senses, and in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>5&endash;9</quote> with <quote>5&endash;12</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>pool and</quote> with <quote>pool, and</quote>. Moved the Nexus choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>) Moved the Huntmastery choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Replaced <quote>reins and</quote> with <quote>reins, and</quote> and <quote>head and</quote> with <quote>head, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>bowyery and</quote> with <quote>bowyery, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Changed the first choice to read in part <quote>If you have a bow and <em>two</em> arrows and wish to use them,&ellips;</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>staff but</quote> with <quote>staff, but</quote> and <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>side steps</quote> with <quote>sidesteps</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>revolting jelly-like</quote> with <quote>revolting, jelly-like</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>gullible but</quote> with <quote>gullible, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>doomwolves</quote> with <quote>Doomwolves</quote> and the second choice&emdash;<quote>If first you wish to help Paido fight off his attackers, turn to 169</quote>&emdash;to <quote>If you choose to continue your ride north to Tharro, turn to 280</quote> The second change was given in <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter: 1987 New Year's Special</cite> p. 9.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>master and</quote> with <quote>master, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>it but</quote> with <quote>it, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>watch-tower</quote> with <quote>watchtower</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>trees and</quote> with <quote>trees, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>smells and</quote> with <quote>smells, and</quote> and <quote>one motioning</quote> with <quote>one, motioning</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>ceiling and</quote> with <quote>ceiling, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>spoke and</quote> with <quote>spoke, and</quote>, <quote>Magnamund and</quote> with <quote>Magnamund, and</quote> and <quote>book 9</quote> with <quote>Book 9</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">Section 1</a>) Many sections in the book assume that you haven't discarded the Pass. It is advisable that you don't discard it during this adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">Section 13</a>) Note that in this combat, you are meant to go to <a idref="sect158">Section 158</a> immediately when the fight reaches the specified number of rounds: do not finish the combat first.</p>
- <p>The original text reads <quote>If the combat lasts more than five rounds&ellips;</quote> This would leave you no option if the fight lasts exactly five rounds. We reasoned that the most likely interpretation is that the author intended the second choice to be taken if the combat last five rounds or more. However, it is also possible that he intended for it to read "If you win the combat in five rounds or less&ellips; If the combat lasts more than five rounds," in which case would you get one more round to fight before going to <a idref="sect158">Section 158</a>.</p>
- <p>This section is very problematic for a player just starting their adventures from this book. It is actually impossible to kill both Vordaks in time if your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> is too low. According to a strict interpretation of the text, this combat must be won in four rounds or less. To find the probability of success in this combat, we counted the number of four digit combinations of numbers picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> that kill both Vordaks, divided by 10,000 (the total number of four digit possibilities). For example, a 0.03&percent; chance of success for an initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14, reflects that only 3 combinations of random number picks (in this case, 0-0-0-0, 0-0-0-9, and 0-0-9-0) out of a possible 10,000 are capable of defeating both Vordaks in time. <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are a non-issue in this case since no combination which destroys both creatures in time will also deduct 20 or more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from Lone Wolf. All of the probabilities given assume that Lone Wolf has chosen Disciplines most advantageous to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for this battle&emdash;Weaponmastery with an appropriate Weapon in his possession, Psi-surge, and Psi-screen&emdash;as well as saved the one potion of Alether found in this adventure for this battle, for a total of 9 points above the initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score.</p>
- <table>
- <tr>
- <th>Initial <typ class="attribute">CS</typ></th>
- <th>Probability of Survival</th>
- </tr>
- <tr><td align="center">10</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">11</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">12</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">13</td><td align="right">0.00&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">14</td><td align="right">0.03&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">15</td><td align="right">0.12&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">16</td><td align="right">0.72&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">17</td><td align="right">1.62&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">18</td><td align="right">4.59&percent;</td></tr>
- <tr><td align="center">19</td><td align="right">14.08&percent;</td></tr>
- </table>
- <p>A player starting from this adventure with 10-13 as her or his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> cannot survive this battle and thus cannot complete the adventure. New players with a higher initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> still have a slim chance of completing this adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect28">Section 28</a>) The original text didn't allow for any bonuses to be added to the randomly picked number. We switched the choices to allow for this. If you'd rather play without bonuses, <a idref="sect125">go to 125</a> if you pick 0&endash;4 and <a idref="sect38">go to 38</a> otherwise.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">Section 30</a>) It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">Section 42</a>) If you are infected with the korovax bacillus, you may now use the Tincture of Oxydine to cure yourself.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">Section 47</a>) It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">Section 76</a>) <a idref="sect221">Section 221</a> gives you further information about these monks. It is most likely the author's mistake that you miss this information in lieu of the discovery you make by using Divination in this section. At your discretion <a idref="sect221">go to 221</a> before making your choice in this section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">Section 86</a>) It seems unreasonable to lose zero <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points after getting hit by a sword. You may choose to interpret picking <quote>0</quote> as indicating a 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss. Other adventures sometimes instruct you to interpret a <quote>0</quote> this way in similar situations.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">Section 112</a>) If you wish to make a guess, you can go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect269">Section 269</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">Section 126</a>) If you wish to make a guess, you can go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect141">Section 141</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">Section 141</a>) If you wish to make a guess, you can go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect338">Section 338</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">Section 156</a>) If you possess either herb, you may now use it to cure the korovax infection.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">Section 183</a>) It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">Section 202</a>) Don't discard the Lodestone during this adventure unless you are forced to do so or given an explicit opportunity. Some passages in the book assume you you still possess it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">Section 308</a>) It seems peculiar that you are instructed to reduce <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> at the beginning of every round if you do not have Psi-screen. This loss would be cumulative so that during the first round you fight with 2 fewer <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points, the second round with 4 fewer points, the third with 6 fewer, etc. This loss is certainly intended to be for the duration of this Combat only&emdash;not permanently&emdash;since Joe Dever always makes special note of instances where you permanently lose <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. It is possible that this penalty is an error, and that you are meant to lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points rather than <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points at the beginning of every round.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">Section 338</a>) If you wish to make a guess, go to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections List</a> and choose your answer. If your first guess is incorrect, go to <a idref="sect133">Section 133</a>. The correct section will have a footnote confirming that you've answered the riddle correctly.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect8">Section 8</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect24">Section 24</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect65">Section 65</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect88">Section 88</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect100">Section 100</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect123">Section 123</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect147">Section 147</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect188">Section 188</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect201">Section 201</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect212">Section 212</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect233">Section 233</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect249">Section 249</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect265">Section 265</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect278">Section 278</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect280">Section 280</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect302">Section 302</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect307">Section 307</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect314">Section 314</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect329">Section 329</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect346">Section 346</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Danarg Swamp</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the primary occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect29">Section 29</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect36">Section 36</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect43">Section 43</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect73">Section 73</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect102">Section 102</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect127">Section 127</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect136">Section 136</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect138">Section 138</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect264">Section 264</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect312">Section 312</a></li>
- </ul>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
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- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
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- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
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- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
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- </section>
-
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
-
- <data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
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- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
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-<!--
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-Revision 1.4 2006/08/22 19:54:03 jonathan.blake
-Clarified the wording of Section 38's footnote.
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-Revision 1.3 2006/01/05 18:04:07 jonathan.blake
-Adding Paul Haskell as an Illustration Transcriptionist
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-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
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-//// RCS Revision Log ////
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-Revision 1.6 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
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--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>The Cauldron of Fear</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>While on your quest, word has reached you that Sommerlund has suffered a great defeat at the city of Ruanon, but morale among your people remains high. Boldly, your homeland continues its valiant fight against the evil forces of the Darklords.</p>
- <p>The messenger who has delivered this news also informs you that the King himself has ordered a skyship placed in your command and has awarded you the rank of Warmarshall of the Royal Estates. You proudly accept the use of the skyship as well as the two platinum badges that signify your new rank. You are now the youngest general in the Sommerlund army.</p>
- <p>But once again you must continue with your quest. You are the last hope for the rebirth of the Kai! Ahead lies the greatest danger you have ever faced.&ellips;</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Spencer and Louise</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
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- <data>
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- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br/>Paul Haskell</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Andrew Gable (Sections 71&endash;105, 141&endash;175, and 246&endash;280)<br />Simon Osborne (front matter and Sections 176&endash;210)<br />Matthew Reynolds (Sections 1&endash;70, 106&endash;140, 211&endash;245 and 281&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Mike Feldman<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Mark Laird<br />Simon Osborne<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Brian Thompson</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
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-
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies&emdash;the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Many centuries have passed since Sun Eagle, the first of your kind, established the Order of the Kai. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he completed a perilous quest to find seven crystals of power, known as the Lorestones of Nyxator, and upon their discovery he unlocked a wisdom and strength that lay within both the Lorestones and himself. He recorded the nature of his discoveries and his experiences in a great tome entitled <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>. You have discovered this lost Kai treasure and have given a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, thereby ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. However, your diligent study of this ancient book has enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. To fulfil your pledge, you must complete the quest first undertaken by Sun Eagle over one thousand years ago. By doing so successfully, you, too, will acquire the power and wisdom of the Magnakai, which is held within the Lorestones' crystal forms.</p>
- <p>Already your quest has taken you far from your northern homeland. Following in the footsteps of the first Kai Grand Master, you journeyed to Dessi and sought the help of the Elder Magi, the magicians that aided Sun Eagle on his quest long ago. There you learned that one of the seven Lorestones was still present in their land, hidden deep inside an island stronghold known as Kazan-Oud, or Castle Death. You survived the perils of Castle Death and emerged triumphant, having achieved what the Elder Magi had believed to be impossible. During the victory celebrations held in your honour, you learned that for centuries the Elder Magi had been expecting your coming. An ancient Dessi legend tells of the birth and rise to greatness of two <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, which means <quote>sons of the sun</quote>. One was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, which means <quote>eagle</quote>, and the other was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, which means <quote>wolf</quote>. A prophecy foretold that the <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign> would each come from the north to seek the council of the Elder Magi in order that they might fulfil a great quest. Although separated by several centuries, they would share one spirit, one purpose and one destiny&emdash;to triumph over the champions of darkness in an age of great peril. Your victory at Kazan-Oud proved that you were <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>&emdash;the wolf of Dessi legend&emdash;and in keeping with their ancient vows the Elder Magi promised to help you complete the Magnakai quest.</p>
- <p>In Elzian, the capital of Dessi, you were tutored in the histories of Magnamund and received lessons in lore that you would have learned from Kai Masters if only they, like you, had survived the murderous Darklord attack on the Kai monastery eleven years ago. You were eager to learn all that your tutor, Lord Rimoah, could teach you in preparation for the next stage of your quest, but grim news from the Darklands cut short your tuition. In the Darklord city of Helgedad a civil war had erupted, following your defeat of Haakon, Archlord of the Black City. After five years, the battle for the throne of Helgedad had finally been won by a Darklord called Gnaag. The other Darklords, now united behind this new leader, were ordered to amass huge armies in preparation for the conquest of Magnamund. So swiftly did their Giak legions grow in numbers that the Elder Magi ceased their counselling and arranged for you to begin at once the search for the third Lorestone. Guided by Lord Paido, a warrior-magician of Dessi, you set off on a perilous journey across the Freelands of Talestria on your way to the jungle-swamps of the Danarg. There, in an ancient temple that was once the Elder Magi's most sacred place of worship, you succeeded in discovering the object of your quest. However, during your escape from the Danarg, your guide, Lord Paido, was captured by Darklord agents, and upon your return to Elzian you learned the fearful news that the Darklords were now waging open war throughout Magnamund. Several lands, after brief but futile resistance, had been overrun completely by Darklord armies, others had surrendered without fighting in the face of their determined might, and sadly there were others who chose to betray former friends and allies by joining the Darklord cause, in the misguided hope that they would share in the spoils of victory, following the triumph of Darklord Gnaag. One such land was Vassagonia, a powerful desert realm to the north of Dessi. Already her armies had invaded the neighbouring territories of Casiorn and Cloeasia, and were preparing to march through the Republic of Anari in order to join Gnaag's horde now advancing across the plain of Slovia. The thought of such an eventuality filled the Elder Magi with dread, for the Lorestone you must find next lies deep below the streets of Tahou, the capital of Anari, in an ancient city built during the dawn of Magnamund. If Tahou were to fall before your arrival the chances of your completing your quest successfully would be slim indeed, even for a warrior of your renowned skill and daring.</p>
- <p>Whilst preparations were being made for your journey you learned that the Darklords had attacked and captured Ruanon, the southernmost province of your homeland of Sommerlund. The news of this calamity shook your resolve and filled you with the desire to forego the journey to Tahou and return home without delay. The Elder Magi implored you not to abandon your quest and you faced a difficult and crucial decision. Which should you honour: your vow to complete the Magnakai quest or your oath of loyalty to your King, an oath which pledged your service in the defence of the sun-realm? Fortunately, the surprise arrival of an old friend was to decide the matter for you. Magemaster Banedon, envoy of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star&emdash;the magician's guild of Sommerlund&emdash;landed unexpectedly at Elzian aboard his flying ship Skyrider. He and his dwarven crew were warmly greeted, for Banedon, a frequent and favoured visitor to Dessi, was highly respected by the Elder Magi for his mastery of new magic. Six years had passed since last you met and there was much you wished to discuss and reminisce about, but there was an urgent matter of duty to perform first. Banedon had been sent by King Ulnar of Sommerlund to deliver into your hand a royal missive concerning your quest. The scroll, written and sealed by the King himself, ordered you to pursue the Magnakai quest above all other duties. It ended with the words: <quote>Sommerlund has suffered a grievous defeat at Ruanon, but the will of the people is undaunted and the strength of our army undiminished. Boldly we will resist our enemies so long as there is hope of the rebirth of the Kai.</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon informed you that the King had ordered that he and his skyship be placed under your command. He also delivered the news that the King had bestowed upon you the rank of Warmarshall of the Royal Estates. Proudly you accepted from Banedon two platinum badges, each crafted in the shape of a blazing sun, and affixed them to the collar of your Kai tunic. They signified that you were now a general of the Sommlending army, the youngest general there had ever been. The honour bestowed upon you lifted your spirits, and the news that Banedon would be joining your quest helped greatly to allay your fear of the dangers that lay ahead. For two years Banedon had lived in Tahou as Journeymaster to his guild; his knowledge of the city and of the Tahou Cauldron, the entrance to the ancient metropolis, which lies buried deep beneath the city streets, would be especially useful.</p>
- <p>On the eve of your journey to Tahou, the Elder Magi convened a meeting of the High Council. A golden torch was lit and placed in the centre of their great cylindrical council chamber as a symbol of their hopes and prayers for your success.</p>
- <p><quote>This torch shall burn so long as you, Lone Wolf, pursue your destiny along the path of the Magnakai,</quote> said Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council. Before the gathering of Elders you reaffirmed your vow to restore the Kai and, as if kindled by a sudden gust of wind, the torch flared brightly, bathing the chamber in its vivid golden glow. As one, the Elders rose from their seats and intoned their blessing: <quote>May the gods Ishir and Kai protect you on your journey into darkness, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Kor-Skarn</foreign>.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 9. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You many choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (Books 6&endash;12).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with three weapons does not mean that you begin the adventure carrying any of them. However, you will have opportunities to acquire weapons during your adventure. For every Lone Wolf book that you complete in the Magnakai series, you may add an additional weapon to your list.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta><title>Animal Control</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
-<p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta><title>Curing</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta><title>Invisibility</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta><title>Psi-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but −2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta><title>Psi-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta><title>Divination</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 9 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in Book 10. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, which is called <cite><a href="&link.10tdot;">The Dungeons of Torgar</a></cite>.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Dessi on your journey to the city of Tahou, the Elder Magi give you a <a idref="map">map of the Republic of Anari</a> and its surrounding lands, and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed books 1&endash;8 of the Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. You can carry a maximum of only fifty Crowns, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>The Elder Magi offer you a choice of equipment to aid you on your perilous mission. You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two Weapons and eight Backpack Items</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Lantern (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="lantern.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="lantern.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Mace (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mace.gif" width="386" height="137" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mace.pdf" width="386" height="137" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>3 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>3 Fireseeds (Special Items) When thrown against a hard surface, these Fireseeds explode and burn fiercely.</p></li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Lantern&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Fireseeds&emdash;carried in your pocket.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left in safekeeping at your
-Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Anari is the Lune, but Gold Crowns are readily accepted at an exchange rate of four Lune for every 1 Gold Crown.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as −3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta><title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will steadily improve. If you have reached the rank of Primate (four skills), Tutelary (five skills), or Principalin (six skills), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="primate">
- <meta><title>Primate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tutelary">
- <meta><title>Tutelary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a weapon, Tutelaries lose only 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, instead of the usual 4 points.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill when hiding from an enemy by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defence against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities. However, this improved Discipline can be negated if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prncpln">
- <meta><title>Principalin</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this skill are able to call on a woodland animal (if nearby) to aid them, either in combat, or to act as a messenger or guide. The number of animals that can be summoned increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Principalins are able to mask any sounds made by their movements while using this skill.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this Magnakai Discipline are able to intensify their eyesight at will, giving them telescopic vision.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Principalins using this skill in combat are able to confuse an enemy by planting seeds of doubt in its mind. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this ability can extinguish fires by force of will alone. The size of the fire, and the number that can be extinguished using Nexus increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Magnakai Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your search for the Lorestone of Tahou will be fraught with danger. The Darklords have launched a massive invasion into the freelands of Magnamund in a bid to take over the continent and thwart your Magnakai quest. Make notes as you progress through the story&emdash;they will be of great help in this and future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will help you during your adventure. Some Special Items will be of use in future Lone Wolf adventures and others may be red herrings of no real use at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice enables any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak his initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.</p>
- <p>The future of Northern Magnamund now hinges on the success of this quest. May the spirit of your ancestors guide you on the path of the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A full moon lights the sky above Elzian on the evening you begin your journey to Tahou. Its ashen rays glimmer along the polished wooden outriggers that run the length of the hull of the <cite>Skyrider</cite>, and illuminate the crystal star ensign and the Sommlending flag as it flutters proudly from the mizzen-mast. The Elders of the High Council have gathered on the roof of their council chamber and, as you and Banedon climb the boarding ladder to the skyship, you pause to return their farewell salute. Bo'sun Nolrim, senior member of Banedon's crew of dwarves, welcomes you and his captain aboard. Surveying the craft, you notice that the <cite>Skyrider</cite> has changed very little since you were last aboard her, when you sailed the desert skies of Vassagonia in search of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>. The crew remember that voyage fondly and are justly proud of the part they played in the success of that perilous mission. <quote>Take the helm, bo'sun, and set a course for Navasari!</quote> commands Banedon, as he leads you across the busy deck to his cabin at the prow.</p>
- <p>Swiftly the lights of Elzian vanish as the <cite>Skyrider</cite> speeds into the night. A mile below, the jungle of Dessi and the barren peaks of the Xulun Mountains race past beneath the keel, but in the comforting warmth of Banedon's cabin you feel no sensation of movement; only the hum of the powerful engine indicates how rapidly you are travelling. Over a delicious meal of salt beef and spiced fruit, Banedon explains the purpose of your journey to Navasari, a city that lies over a hundred miles south of Tahou. <quote>Our enemies are advancing across Magnamund like a tidal wave, destroying or carrying with them all in their path,</quote> says the blond-haired magician, pointing to a map of the continent that adorns the cabin wall. <quote>Every day a new battle is being fought, and every day we lose another town or village to the Darklords. Before we venture into Tahou we must be sure that the city has not already fallen to Darklord Gnaag, lest we fly straight into a trap. I have many friends in Navasari, reliable friends, friends who are highly placed in the Senate of Anari. From them we will learn if the city still stands, and if it does, how long we can expect it to resist a Darklord assault.</quote></p>
- <p>Mid-morning of the following day, the lookout catches a glimpse of Navasari as the <cite>Skyrider</cite> emerges from the Yajo Pass. Banedon takes control of the helm and steers the craft towards the east quarter of the city, landing it on the spacious roof of a magnificent, star-shaped building that overlooks the River Chah. A group of dignitaries, resplendent in high-necked robes of green and yellow silk, greet your arrival: these are some of the friends of whom Banedon spoke. Sadly they recount the grim course of events that has recently befallen their country. In the far north, the town of Resa was destroyed and its people massacred by an army of Giaks. Two days later, a similar attack was launched by a Vassagonian army against the town of Zila. They swept along the Anari Pass, burning and looting every village through which they rode, and giving no quarter to those who dared resist them. And three days ago, on the western border, a fierce battle was fought at the Slovian town of Lovka for control of the bridge across the River Churdas. Shortly before midnight the might of Darklord Gnaag's horde fell upon the beleaguered garrison. They fought bravely, but by the dawn of the following day, all that remained of the town and is defenders were an acre of scorched earth and a cart full of charred bones. The three enemy armies are now advancing towards Tahou. President Toltuda, the head of state, has ordered the evacuation of all women and children from the capital, and has begun strengthening the city's defences to increase its chances of withstanding the impending siege. When Banedon tells of your intention to go to Tahou, one of his friends offers a few words of caution. <quote>It would be unwise to attempt a landing at the capital,</quote> he warns. <quote>Heavy bolt throwers have been positioned on every rooftop and tower in case the city is attacked from the air. The Darklords captured Suentina in such a fashion and the Tahouese have learnt from their neighbour's misfortune. Skyships rarely visit Tahou, which makes it all the more likely that your craft would be mistaken for a hostile attacker.</quote></p>
- <p>After long deliberation, you and Banedon decide to leave the <cite>Skyrider</cite> in Navasari and journey to Tahou by horse. Nolrim is left in charge of the craft and crew with instructions to wait here for your return. If Tahou is besieged and he has not received word from you after two weeks, he is to return to Dessi and report that your quest has failed.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="107" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="107" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Early next morning, you and Banedon climb into the saddles of two white Anarian steeds provided by his friends, and set off on your two-day ride to Tahou. Less than an hour after leaving Navasari you see a long line of wagons approaching. They are escorted by a troop of cavalry, and each one is crowded with women and children.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you wish to stop and question these people, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to ride past them and press on with your journey, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look upon the city of Tahou from the balcony of a tall tower, the spire of the Thalis Temple, situated at the heart of the Rainbow Park. It is noon, but there is no brightness in this day, for a grey blanket of smoke covers the sky. Below you lies a shattered city, its once proud buildings now seething infernos, its streets and squares choked with rubble. Hasty defences have been constructed where the city wall is holed or fallen, and the battlements to the north and east are covered with unburied dead.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="152" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="152" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Beyond the wall, the flats lie shrouded in a mist that curls like the smoke of a thousand campfires. Its thickness is unnatural and you sense at once that it has been conjured to hide the enemy. You leave the tower and make your own way through the burning streets towards the West District, where the fighting at the wall is fiercest. You pass the smouldering ruins of the Anarium and take a fire-swept street that leads to the West Gate. A building at the end of this street is being used as a shelter for the wounded. The roof has caught fire and a handful of soldiers are trying desperately to evacuate the wounded before it collapses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to help these soldiers, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you wish to continue towards the West Gate, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from your hiding place like a tiger pouncing on its prey. Miraculously, the guard manages to parry your first blow, but he is awestruck by your skill with a blade. He retreats towards the strongroom as you press your attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Strongroom Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">13</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you win the combat in less than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you win but the combat lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of the fall and the numbing chill of the icy black water conspire to sap your strength. You flail and flounder in the deep until you are gripped by cramp and can no longer resist your doom. Unconsciousness smothers your pain as you sink slowly to the bottom of the lake, weighed down by your equipment and the freezing water that now fills your lungs.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect5-1-foot" idref="sect5-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to Khmar's dagger riddle.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect5-1" idref="sect5-1-foot" class="footnote">You have answered the riddle correctly</a> and Khmar displays his collection of valuables from which you may choose your winnings. You may take any two of the articles listed; they are all Backpack Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Silver Bowl</li>
- <li>Vial of Gold Dust</li>
- <li>Altar Cloth</li>
- <li>Scroll of Honour</li>
- <li>Jadin Anklets</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you already carry the maximum number of Backpack Items, you may discard two of them in favour of your prize.</p>
- <p>Since you have displayed your intelligence so effectively, the plains farmers are now reluctant to continue gambling. Khmar and his sons gather up their winnings and bid you goodnight, and the farmers follow suit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to talk with the tavern owner, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to order a meal, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you decide to call it a day and retire to your room, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect6-1-foot" idref="sect6-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to a partially correct combination for the pyramid lock.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect6-1" idref="sect6-1-foot" class="footnote">There is a faint click but the doors remain firmly closed.</a> You press the lower three buttons at random in the hope of chancing on the correct combination, but the buttons lock into position and you cannot prise them up.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect7-1-foot" idref="sect7-1">
- <p>Remember to delete the Rope from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tie one end of the rope to the bottom rung and drop the rest into the darkness. Seconds later you hear it strike stone and you realize that you will not have too far to descend. As you climb down the rope, you pass through a layer of mist that glows with a curious blue-green luminescence. Twenty feet below the mist <a id="sect7-1" idref="sect7-1-foot" class="footnote">your feet touch firm ground.</a> Close to where you land lie the skeletal remains of a human body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to examine the body, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to ignore it and investigate your surroundings, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Save your sympathy,</quote> he sneers, <quote>&thinspace;'cause you're about to meet him face to face!</quote> Suddenly he lunges forward, a curved dagger gleaming in his hand. He flicks his wrist and the razor-sharp blade whips through an arc towards your throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this skill, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow passes harmlessly beneath the creature's thrashing coils. There is no time to attempt a second shot. Quickly you shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon, as it makes its diving attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with the Zakhan of Vassagonia. You cannot evade this combat and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zakhan Kimah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect11-1-foot" idref="sect11-1">
- <p>Although this book gives no explicit restriction, it may be appropriate to consider the Zaaryx a wasteland in regard to fulfilling Meal requirements with Hunting and Huntmastery.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>For countless hours you follow the great avenue as it bisects the heart of Zaaryx. The once-grand buildings that line this ancient thoroughfare are in varying states of decay: some are almost intact while others have disintegrated into little more than piles of black rubble. You try to keep track of time but it proves difficult in the perpetual half-light of this buried world. Twice you stop to sleep and eat (erase 2 Meals from you <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before you near the centre of the city.<a id="sect11-1" idref="sect11-1-foot" class="footnote" /> There you discover a great hall, its arched porticoes smooth and undamaged by time.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A group of reptilian creatures are stroking a large leathery<br />egg and speaking in a low hissing language</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="602" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="602" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you pass through one of these massive arches, you notice a group of reptilian creatures huddled at the top of a staircase that descends into darkness. They are stroking a large leathery egg and speaking to each other in a low hissing language.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to approach these creatures under cover of the pillars that line the hall, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to call out to them, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect12-1-foot" idref="sect12-1">
- <p>You must possess at least one arrow in order to fire your bow again.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take aim at a Giak's chest. He opens his yellow-fanged mouth to shriek for mercy, but his cry is cut short as your feathered shaft pierces his heart. The other Giak rolls away from the body of his partner and scrambles to his feet, desperate to escape a similar fate. <quote>Aki-amaz!</quote> he whimpers, hysterically, as he scurries towards the shadows of an alley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229"><a id="sect12-1" idref="sect12-1-foot" class="footnote">If you wish to fire your bow again,</a> <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you decide to let the Giak escape, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sift through the items heaped on the tables and disentangle the following, which could be useful:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Flask of Water</li>
- <li>Torch</li>
- <li>Tinderbox</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>3 Arrows</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these Items, be sure to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the glare of your light you see the panel at the end of the passage loom into view. Damp green vines hang from the wall, and it is not until you are within a few feet of the panel that you realize that the vines are not vines at all: they are the tentacles of a Roctopus that is nesting in the damp masonry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or higher, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of Animal Control quickly restores the horse's usually calm temperament. You pat its neck affectionately and urge it forward, but still it refuses to move. You are about to use your skill to order it on when suddenly you see why it refuses to advance. The glistening head of a giant green serpent has slithered into view, its body still hidden by the tall crops. Its yellow tongue flickers hungrily between two sharp, venomous fangs and its cold black eyes watch your every move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you wish to unsheathe a hand weapon in case it should attack, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you decide to shout a warning to Banedon, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Snatching the seed from your pocket, you hurl it with all your strength at the gaping maw. The Fireseed splits open against a sabre-like fang and erupts in a sheet of flame, searing the creature's mouth and causing it to rear up in agony. With a loud, sickening crack, it slams its scaly head against the ceiling and falls, concussed, to the chamber floor.</p>
- <p>With an energy born of desperation, you concentrate all your Kai skills upon opening the jammed lock. The intense concentration bleeds you of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but your persistence pays off.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards are full of camaraderie and are surprisingly eager to help you find your way. <quote>Follow that street,</quote> instructs the taller of the two, pointing across the lane, <quote>and take the first alley on the left. When you reach the Well of the Singing Serpents, turn right, and then take the second alley on the left. That will lead you straight to Chiban's house on Leech Street.</quote> You thank them and accept a gulp of their boza wine before waving them farewell.</p>
- <p>The soldier's directions prove to be accurate, and in less than twenty minutes you find yourself standing in front of the magician's house in Leech Street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount and hand Banedon the reins of your horse before approaching the door of the hut. With the tip of your weapon you lift the latch and push it open, wary of what may lurk inside, but the hut seems to be empty. It is furnished with a table, bed and chair, and a saucepan full of foul-smelling broth is simmering on the grate of a fire well charged with freshly cut logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to search the hut more thoroughly, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you decide to leave the hut and press on with your trek to Tahou, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mercenaries pocket the silver coins and you ask, <quote>Is a blond-haired Northlander being held here under arrest?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Not any more,</quote> replies the bearded soldier. <quote>They carted him off to the Magistrates' Court about an hour ago.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The court's up there,</quote> says the other man, pointing along the lane. <quote>Gallows Street, the first street on the left.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zakhan's mocking laughter is the last thing you hear as the fiery bolt of scarlet flame tears through your chest.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you are slain here in Tahou, your life taken by the evil Zakhan of Vassagonia.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A startled shriek echoes through the deserted village as the riderless Kraan takes to the air. You watch as it crosses the river and flies towards the north before you turn your attention to the bodies of your dead foes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to search the bodies for useful items, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to leave and follow the track that leads out of the village, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and let fire at the leading creature. The shaft finds its grisly heart and the creature drops to the ground, its spindly arms thrashing fitfully. The others halt in their tracks and look down at their slain companion. You see a flicker of fear pass across their black, lifeless eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to seize this opportunity to evade them by climbing the stairs, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you choose to draw a hand weapon in case they storm the hollow, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the alley a signpost shaped like a heavy lance is embedded with its hilt in the ground. Three pointed placards are nailed to its shaft, pointing to streets that disappear into the tangle of smoky taverns and shops that crowd this part of Tahou.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you wish to head north into Brooker Court, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If you wish to go east into Eastwall Lane, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to turn west into Varta Ride, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are unsheathing your weapon when you hear Banedon whisper, <quote>Follow me.</quote> The rangers hear nothing, and as you drop the weapon their eyes follow it to the ground. At that instant, Banedon quickly recites the runes of a brotherhood spell and a flood of sticky fibres gush from his outstretched hand. The sergeant and a dozen of his men are caught in a net of gluey strands that hold them and their horses rooted firmly to the ground. Banedon spurs his horse at the startled few that have escaped his spell, and you follow closely on his heels. A handful of rangers pursue you along the highway, but your mounts are much faster and they soon give up the chase and return to their helpless comrades.</p>
- <p>Only when the rangers and the standing stones finally disappear from sight do you rein in your horses and slacken the pace.</p>
- <p>Remember to erase one Weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before continuing your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect25-1-foot" idref="sect25-1">
- <p>Remember to mark off one dose of Sabito on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Feverishly you tear open your Backpack and retrieve the vial. <a id="sect25-1" idref="sect25-1-foot" class="footnote">As soon as you swallow a handful of the blue pills</a> you feel the pain in your lungs subside and a new wave of strength revitalizes your aching limbs. Oxygen is being drawn from the water around you, absorbed by your body through the pores of your skin. With determined strokes, you rise through the black water and break the surface. The distant shore gleams faintly in the dim half-light and you swim towards it as quickly as your frozen limbs will allow. Aching and numb to the bone, you heave yourself out of the lake and collapse on the flat, spongy rocks that line the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Ha!</quote> he snorts, contemptuously. <quote>So you are a student of magic, an apprentice in the mysteries of the arcane. How, pray tell, can one so gifted be unable to answer correctly such a simple question?</quote></p>
- <p>With a flick of his hand he signals to his men on the parapet. It would be futile to attempt an escape from this murder hole and, reluctantly, you raise your hands in surrender.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your golden blade in time to deflect the bolt and send it screeching back down the staircase. It explodes among the reptilians, destroying them and their weapon, and scattering their burning remains all over the corridor beyond.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="107" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="107" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Feverishly you fight to free your trapped leg, cutting at the barbs with the tip of the sun-sword. Eventually you succeed, and limp down the stairs as fast as your injuries will allow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wretched beggars are overjoyed at your generosity and their grimy faces beam with delight as quickly they share out your gold. An old crone tugs at your sleeve and points with a crooked finger towards a small wooden hut set apart from the rest. She says it is the home of their shaman, the village holy-man. She offers to take you to him to receive a blessing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to go with the old woman, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you decide to decline her offer and leave the village, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect29-1-foot" idref="sect29-1">
- <p>Remember to note both doses of Sabito on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery enables you to recognize these pills; they are Sabito root tablets, made from compressed and powdered root of the Sabito plant. They enable the human body to absorb oxygen from water through the skin. Consequently anyone who swallows these pills will be able to <quote>breathe</quote> underwater. <a id="sect29-1" idref="sect29-1-foot" class="footnote">The vial contains enough pills for two full doses.</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to return to Brooker Court and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to continue along the alley instead, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the bodies of the dead Drakkarim and rush forward to plug the hole in the West Gate. Inspired by your heroic action, the scattered gate guards rally themselves and erect a makeshift barricade to seal the breach. When the door is secure, you leave the West Gate and follow the battlements north towards the sound of renewed battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><link-text>Turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel is narrow, but there is sufficient headroom to allow you to enter on horseback. You lead the way, steering your nervous horse through the winding passage, which is lit by the glow of mine flies swarming in the roof overhead. Gradually the tunnel descends to a cavern where the floor is covered with puddles of a milky liquid which bubbles up from fissures in the rock. Your horse lifts its head, sniffs the cool air and gives voice to a harsh neigh, alerting you to danger: in the distant shadows something alien is stirring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light has awoken and angered the sleeping Roctopus, which uncoils its long, slimy tentacles swiftly from the wall. They surge towards you like a mass of wriggling snakes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Roctopus uncoils its long, slimy tentacles</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Roctopus</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Owing to the confines of the passage, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your light flares into life, you notice an object lying on the steps. It was dropped by one of the reptilians as it made its hasty escape. It is a hexagonal-shaped piece of metal, embossed with a numerical design.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have seen and examined one of these hexagonal tokens previously in your adventure, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you have never examined one of these tokens before, you may look at this one; <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">Or, you may leave it untouched and descend the stairs; <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guyuk gives you each a key to your room and offers you both a glass of lovka on the house. Gratefully you accept and down the warming liquor in one gulp.</p>
- <p>You notice that at the far end of your table a man sits with his two young sons. They appear to be gambling with a group of plains farmers seated opposite, although you can see no money changing hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to move along the table and sit next to them, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to engage Guyuk in conversation, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to order some food, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your improved Magnakai mastery you focus on a distant tower, one of several that reinforce the city wall. This one marks the boundary between the city's North and West Districts, and as your vision magnifies, your suspicions are confirmed. Standing at the top of the tower is your companion, Banedon. You are relieved to know that he is still alive and resolve to make your way to the tower without delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery alerts you to the attack, and you resist it with breathtaking speed. In one swift movement you unsheathe your weapon and lash out at your attacker, shearing off his arm at the elbow. Arm and dagger fall to the table and the soldier collapses screaming to the floor.</p>
- <p>Shocked by what he has seen, his comrade kicks back his bench and retreats from the table. However, the drunken crowd goad him to retaliate and their gibes sting him into action. He pulls his blade free of its scabbard and leaps forward to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drunken Mercenary</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you stay and win the fight, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hermit takes you back into the gorge and leads you to a place where a massive outcrop of rock overhangs a tangle of bushes and foliage. Hidden behind this leafy cover is the entrance to a cave. A rivulet of fresh water trickles from the cave mouth and the sound of constant dripping echoes in its distant depths.</p>
- <p><quote>Follow the straight path through the cave. Do not stray from it. Soon you will emerge from the hills and see Tahou before your eyes. Godspeed.</quote> And with that farewell wish the hermit hobbles away, eager to return to his hut and devour the fresh food you have given him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect38-1-foot" idref="sect38-1">
- <p>You may only add 3 to the number picked even if you possess both Magnakai Disciplines.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ladder quickly gains momentum as you swing back and forth through the darkness. If you are to land safely on the narrow ledge you must time your jump to perfection.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Huntmastery, <a id="sect38-1" idref="sect38-1-foot" class="footnote">add 3 to the number you have picked.</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the cover afforded by the crowds, you escape across the precinct that surrounds the Senate House and enter a labyrinth of passages that disappear into a neighbourhood known as the Parish of Thieves. However, your escape has not gone completely unnoticed. From a tower of the Anarium, the Captain of the Senate Guard has been watching your getaway through his telescope, and he has dispatched a troop of his best men to track you down.</p>
- <p>On the corner of a dark alley you hear the sound of drunken laughter floating up from the battered door of an ale cellar. You turn away but the sudden tramp of booted feet echoing along the passage behind makes you change your mind. Quickly you descend the steps and take shelter in this lowly tavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212"><link-text>Turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually the tall fields of unripened wheat thin out as the land descends to the banks of the River Churdas. A long gravel beach lines the west bank, and on the other side, a quarter of a mile away, you see the rolling, treeless plains of Slovia stretching endlessly towards the horizon. You follow this mighty river upstream until you catch sight of a village in the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Primate or higher, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you want to take a closer look at this village, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you choose to avoid it, you must leave the river bank and ride back into the wheat fields; <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your eyes become accustomed to the strange, blue-green half-light, you notice something unusual lying on the shore a hundred yards away. You approach cautiously and discover that it is the rope that once supported the cradle. The cradle itself now lies at the bottom of the lake, but a section of the rope fell to the shore. You examine it and discover that the end has been cut through with a sharp blade. The shock of this discovery sets your heart racing and you rack your brain, trying to think who would commit this act of deliberate sabotage. You know of only one who could have done such a ruthless deed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai mastery you mimic the Tahouese dialect and try to persuade the commander that you have lived most of your life in the city. He looks at you suspiciously, but before he can ask you any questions that would be sure to catch you out, Banedon comes to your aid. <quote>We're students of Chiban the Magician,</quote> he says, hurriedly. <quote>He lives at the Guildhouse on Leech Street, in the North District. He will vouch for us.</quote></p>
- <p>The commander narrows his eyes. <quote>Bah!</quote> he snorts. <quote>Let 'em enter. We need all the men we can get. Their blood's as good as any that'll be spilled in the defence of this city.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is hexagonal in shape and made of a thin, cream-coloured metal, which is engraved with the number <quote>6</quote>. (Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>: it could prove to be useful later in your adventure.)</p>
- <p>The metal begins to get hot and soon you can bend it with your fingers. Suddenly it bursts into flames, forcing you to fling it aside before it burns your hand. The flaming token hits the lake and explodes in a cloud of white, powdery smoke. The echo of the explosion reverberates across the water, and you turn to leave straight away in case it attracts more ghoulish inhabitants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely you fight the mounted soldiers, but for every one you kill two more emerge from the gatehouse to take his place. Eventually you are overwhelmed by the sheer weight of their numbers, and as you weaken you are knocked down and trampled to death beneath their horses' hooves.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track takes you to the outskirts of a small river village. It looks deserted but as though the inhabitants have left in a hurry, taking nothing with them. A window shutter slams repeatedly in the distance, and you feel the chill of premonition as you ride along the empty cobbled street. As you approach the river wharf you suddenly hear new sounds, sounds that make you stop your horse dead in its tracks. You can hear the harsh voices of Giak soldiers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your caution is well placed. As soon as the door creaks open, a bolt of fiery energy screams over your head and explodes with a tremendous ear-splitting crack against the stairs behind. It was launched from a tube of glowing crystal, supported on the shoulders of two reptilians, kneeling in the corridor ahead. Their long jaws fall open in shocked surprise when they see you rise to your feet and run towards them, your weapon drawn ready to strike.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Two reptilians kneel in the corridor ahead</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="637" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="637" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Crocaryx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the speed of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses that you sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over the years, the dampness that pervades the prison has taken a heavy toll on the iron cell door. Using your Kai mastery, you are able to attack the lock mechanism by starting a vibration that shatters its corroded detent, the bar that holds the door shut.</p>
- <p>Use of your psychic skill costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it frees you from the cell in less than a minute.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bolt of scarlet fire surges from the orb and speeds towards your head. You counter the attack but the bolt changes course in mid-flight, catching you off-balance. A searing pain tears into your arm as it glances from your shoulder and explodes somewhere in the street behind: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon helps you escape by casting a spell of levitation on the drunken soldiers. They shriek with terror as suddenly they take to the air, floating upwards to crash into the soot-blackened rafters. The watching crowd finds this greatly amusing and you are able to run out of the room and escape along the street while they are helpless with laughter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect50-1-foot" idref="sect50-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to Khmar's riddle about his youngest son.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect50-1" idref="sect50-1-foot" class="footnote">Your answer is correct</a> and Khmar is the first to congratulate your display of quick thinking as he returns the stake you lost. Having demonstrated your intelligence so effectively, the plains farmers are now reluctant to continue gambling. They gather up what little they have left and bid you goodnight. Khmar and his sons soon follow suit, leaving you and Banedon on your own.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to talk to the tavern owner, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to order a meal, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you decide to call it a day and get some sleep, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ridged walls of the stone chamber narrow to a point where the mouth of a tunnel disappears steeply into the solid black rock. You enter the tunnel, taking care to control your descent as you slide towards a dim, flickering light that marks the end of the shaft. Halfway along the shaft you hear a rumble, like the sound of a distant earthquake. Then cracks appear in the roof and a deluge of dust and rubble pours down, choking and blinding you as it clogs your throat and eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the hour of noon approaches, the rutted highway of khaki-coloured earth rises gently towards a flat-topped house near the horizon. Outside, at the entrance, is a three-legged stand erected over a fire made of ghorkas' dung. A battered tin pot full of soup hangs from the crotch of the stand, and a group of farm hands stand in line waiting for the muddy liquid to boil. The smell of the fire is awful, and it has to be blown on ceaselessly to prevent it from going out. Close to the house is a dirt track, which branches off the main highway and disappears to the west. A signpost, its wood cracked and twisted, points along the track. It reads:</p>
- <signpost>TAHOU&emdash;95 MILES</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to follow the track, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to question the farm hands, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you decide to continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rope shudders and instinctively you grab the rim of the cradle as it jerks violently to one side. Your knuckles whiten and cold sweat bathes your brow. The cradle swings and twists wildly, then a crack echoes in the darkness above as the rope snaps and you plunge headlong into the abyss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrogantly the sergeant-at-arms presents the case against you, but Chief Magistrate Gwynian is unimpressed with his account of your crimes. <quote>Do you not know who it is that you have brought before this court?</quote> he asks. The sergeant looks puzzled, and a thin film of sweat breaks out on his reddening face as his confidence begins to crumble. After a long and embarrassing silence, he replies, <quote>Er&ellips; no, sir.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>This is Lone Wolf, the last Kai Master of Sommerlund. Have you not heard of this man?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, sir,</quote> he replies, hoarsely, scarcely able to believe what he is hearing.</p>
- <p><quote>I order his possessions be restored to him forthwith, and all charges against him to be dropped.</quote></p>
- <p>A bell is rung to signify the end of the hearing and the courtroom is cleared. You are released from the cage and ushered into the Chief Magistrate's private chambers, where your equipment is returned to you. (Remember to erase the <quote>x</quote> marks from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect76"><link-text>Turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lane becomes narrower and gloomier as it climbs towards the East Gate. Marching down the hill comes a patrol of armed guards, led by an officer dressed in silvered mail. The moment he sees you he orders his men to load their bows. <quote>Surrender or die!</quote> he shouts, as eighteen loaded bows are levelled at your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you wish to surrender to the patrol, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to turn and run, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The black flagstones are covered with a fine layer of grit that scrunches with every step you take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility and have reached the Kai rank of Principalin, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you do not have this skill, or you have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the rapid footfalls of the Giak recede, your basic Kai sixth sense warns you that he has recognized who you are. When he catches up with his unit and tells them what has happened here, they are sure to return <foreign xml:lang="fr">en masse</foreign>. Wisely you decide to leave; you remount your horse and follow the track that leads out of the river village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing beside the President's chair is a solid marble plinth with a bronze beacon&emdash;the Anarian symbol of law and order&emdash;fixed to the top. The President moves his hand to the padded arm of his chair and presses a button. All eyes are on the beacon. There is a flash of ignition and a jet of green flame roars upwards towards the domed ceiling.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="205" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>The Senate votes to aid your quest, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Senator Zilaris. <quote>Come, we will escort you to the Square of the Dragons and make preparation for the Cauldron to be opened.</quote></p>
- <p>The assembly is dissolved and the state coaches are summoned to take you and all the senators to the Tahou Cauldron. You share a carriage with the President, Senator Zilaris, and Senator Chil, who is anxious to apologize for opposing the majority vote. <quote>I trust you will forgive me, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, unctuously. <quote>I merely proposed what I thought was best for my country, but I now realize I was wrong.</quote> You nod benignly, in the hope that he will cease his fawning. He smiles and turns to the President. <quote>Sir, I feel I must make amends for my misguided action in the Senate. If Lone Wolf is to enter the Cauldron tonight, surely it is our duty to ensure that he is adequately equipped. I propose that we visit one of my warehouses, where he is free to take anything he requires.</quote></p>
- <p>The President agrees and the carriage is redirected to a warehouse near the Square of the Dragons. Senator Chil has many business interests in the city, and he supplies much of the weaponry and armour that equips the army. His warehouse is full of supplies, and you are encouraged to take whatever you need. From the vast stores you select the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Flask of Water</li>
- <li>6 Arrows</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Lantern</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You start up the stairs, but the first floor is already engulfed by flames. A gust of wind whips the fire down the stairwell, scorching your face and tunic (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and forcing you to retreat into the street. Unable to help those who have been caught in the inferno, you leave the house sadly and hurry towards the West Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Enter the Cauldron!</quote> say the guards incredulously. <quote>You're either a madman or you take us for fools.</quote></p>
- <p>You try to explain, but the guards become angry and refuse to listen. <quote>Dismount immediately!</quote> they shout. <quote>You're both under arrest!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you wish to do as they command, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to try to escape from the enclosure, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen steps when a terrible pain lances through your mind. A swirling cloud of mist engulfs your body and you are held in its paralysing grip. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen and have reached the Magnakai rank of Tutelary or higher, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="212" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the dreadful pain, you force yourself to turn and face your attacker as it runs forward to strike you down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The alley is dark and narrow, but your basic Kai tracking skill enables you to follow the pickpocket as he makes his hurried escape. Suddenly he senses you are following him and dives into the side entrance of a large, three-storey building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to follow him into the building, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose to call off the chase, you can walk back to Brooker Court and continue on your way; <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track descends into a shallow valley, passes over a wooden bridge across a stagnant stream, and climbs towards the ridge of the hill. Passing over the crest, you come to a junction where the track joins a main highway. A whitewashed stone marker points to the left. It reads:</p>
- <signpost>TAHOU&emdash;90 MILES</signpost>
- <p>You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">To continue your journey to Tahou, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Waves of pain course through your body and your head feels as if it is being squeezed in an invisible vice. You cry out as the psychic attack increases, paralysing your body and prising open the secrets of your mind: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The man commands you to reveal the real reason you are here; you are powerless to resist his demand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Well, that is most interesting,</quote> answers the commander, sarcastically. <quote>Perhaps you can tell me when it was transported there from its previous location in the West District?</quote></p>
- <p>With a flick of his hand he signals to his men on the parapet. It would be suicidal to attempt an escape from this murder hole; reluctantly, you raise your hands in surrender.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the enemy fall to your murderous blows, you cut free your startled horse and leap into the saddle. Banedon gallops past, his loose robe billowing behind him like a pair of blue wings. Instinctively, you dig in your heels and urge your mount after him, fleeing the battleground, as yet more of the wolf-riders loom into view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature stretches its jaws and you stare with horror at a cavernous, fang-filled mouth. Desperately you look for a way to escape from this monster before it lunges and swallows you whole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you have a Fireseed, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you have a Psychic Ring, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you possess neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait for the mercenaries to finish their pipe and go inside before daring to approach the barracks. You move like a shadow along the wall until you find a door that is unlocked and unguarded. It leads to the kitchens, where you manage to hide inside a store cupboard. There you eavesdrop on the conversations of the cooks while they prepare the evening meal. Their talk is mainly about the approaching enemy armies, and it is over an hour before you hear any mention of Banedon.</p>
- <p><quote>At least we don't have to feed 'im now,</quote> says one. <quote>They've taken 'im to the Magistrates' Court in Gallows Street. After what he's done, I don't think he'll be getting a meal ever again!</quote></p>
- <p>Your heart sinks upon hearing this. You climb out of the storeroom through a window and make your way back to Eastwall Lane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to retrace your steps along the lane, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you decide to continue to follow the street east, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your improved Kai mastery you focus on the distant dust cloud. It grows larger and sharper as your telescopic vision magnifies the image. You see a patrol of Anarian cavalry riding towards you, led by one who wears a crimson cloak. You count twenty lances, each of them bearing a small flag embroidered with the arms of Tahou.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="219" height="262" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you wish to ride forward to meet these soldiers, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you choose to avoid them by hiding behind the standing stones, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant the engineer leans forward to lay the plank in place, you let loose your arrow. Unfortunately, the soldier who holds the screen sees its approach and moves to intercept it. The shaft sinks harmlessly into the leather-covered screen and the bridge is completed with two blows of the engineer's hammer.</p>
- <p><quote>Shaag Drakkarim!</quote> scream the Drakkar assault-troopers as they blow a hole in the West Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you wish to help defend the West Gate, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you decide to stay on the battlements, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the ghouls slink away until their forms merge with the shadows at the far side of the lake. One of their number has been crouching above the entrance to the hollow, waiting to drop on you at the first opportunity, but, on seeing its kin disperse, it decides not to remain any longer. As it jumps down from the step above, an odd-looking token falls from the pocket of its tattered jacket. It tries to retrieve it but you step forward and strike a blow that lays open its stringy grey hand, and the accursed creature scurries away hissing ghoulish obscenities.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to examine this token, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you prefer to leave it and hurry away from the hollow in case the ghouls decide to return, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect72-1-foot" idref="sect72-1">
- <p>In this case, a 0 picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> counts as 10.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your boots thump your horse's ribs and he responds by surging forward, scattering the angry guards. You tug the reins and steer him towards the open gate through which the guards entered the enclosure, but he is hit in the neck by a crossbow bolt fired from above, and he shrieks and stumbles. An alarm bell clangs and furious shouting echoes in your ears as you tumble from your dying steed. Suddenly a pain explodes in your shoulder&emdash;you have been hit by a bolt. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 2 to <a id="sect72-1" idref="sect72-1-foot" class="footnote">the number you have picked.</a> The total is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you must lose as a result of your wound.</p>
- <p>It is futile to continue your escape attempt; you are caught like fish in a barrel. Painfully you raise your hands in surrender.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your decision to discard half your equipment proves to be a fatal error of judgement. The amount of weight you have jettisoned is not enough to help you rise to the surface before cramp afflicts your aching limbs.Unable to resist your doom, you sink slowly to the bottom of the lake, weighed down by your Backpack and the water that now fills your lungs.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shielding his eyes from the sun, Banedon surveys the horizon. After a few minutes he shakes his head. <quote>No tracks or highway, nor even a sign of habitation for that matter. To get a better view we need to reach higher ground, but as there are no trees or hills in sight, I'll have to improvise.</quote></p>
- <p>And with that, he whispers the runes of a brotherhood spell. Slowly he rises from the saddle until he is hovering in the air over twenty feet above your head. Then, having scoured the surrounding countryside, he descends slowly as the effects of his levitation spell begin to wear off.</p>
- <p><quote>There's a river on the horizon,</quote> he says, slipping his feet back into the stirrups. <quote>It's probably the Churdas. Over to the right, about five miles away, there's a small village on the river bank.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to ride towards the river, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to veer right and ride towards the village, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you choose to turn around and retrace your tracks to the junction, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a grand building of polished red stone set with small, diamond-paned windows. You pass beneath its arched gateway and climb the tiled steps that lead to the front door. Twice you rap the twisted iron knocker and wait expectantly for the portal to creak slowly open. Minutes later, it swings back to reveal two men standing in the doorway. One is the grey-haired aristocratic figure of Chiban, the other, to your utter astonishment, is your companion Banedon.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>In the doorway stand the grey-haired aristocratic figure<br />of Chiban, and your companion Banedon</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="673" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="673" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Lone Wolf!</quote> says the young magician, his voice filled with surprise and delight. <quote>You're free, but how?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I could ask the same of you, Banedon,</quote> you reply, with a smile.</p>
- <p><quote>I heard of my former pupil's arrest and made arrangements for his release. We were discussing how to secure your freedom, but it would appear that such plans are now unnecessary,</quote> explains the aged Chiban, gently closing the great oak door. He turns his kindly gaze to you and says, <quote>I am honoured to meet you, Kai Lord. Banedon has told me of your quest. I have knowledge of that which you seek and I shall aid you all I can so that you may recover it.</quote></p>
- <p>The master magician beckons you both to follow him to his study. The room is filled with massive wooden racks of books and papers, and at its centre a large circular table stands completely covered with the implements of his magical researches. He clears a space amid this clutter and motions you to sit. <quote>You must both be famished after your journey and your ordeal. Come, eat and enjoy.</quote></p>
- <p>For a few seconds a shimmering pool of light fills the space, then it fades, leaving a sumptuous meal in its wake. If you have lost any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points on your adventure so far, you may now restore 3 points as you consume the delicious food.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The Elder Magi sent word of your coming, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Gwynian. <quote>They knew of my appointment to the city judiciary when I came to live here two years ago. My home, the Halls of Learning in Varetta, was destroyed by a fire set by agents of the Darklords. Like yourself, I am a sole survivor, the last of my order. The Elders asked me to afford you what protection I could and to help you in your quest for the Lorestone of Tahou.</quote></p>
- <p>He leads you to a table, the surface of which is engraved with a huge map of the city. With a rod of glass he points to the location of the Tahou Cauldron: it is in the Square of the Dragons in the West District of the city. <quote>The Cauldron is a funnel-shaped hollow with a circular shaft at its base. The shaft descends to the ruins of the ancient city of Zaaryx, 500 feet below Tahou. Legend tells us that the Lorestone was thrown into the Cauldron to prevent the Black Zakhan of Vassagonia from capturing it during the Great Khordaim War. The shaft was closed off and has remained sealed for the last 360 years.</quote></p>
- <p>You ask Gwynian if he can order the release of your companion. <quote>It has already been done,</quote> he replies. <quote>I released Banedon into the custody of his former mentor, Chiban the Magician, three hours ago. He is with him now at his house on Leech Street. He is quite safe, but you must not delay your quest any further by going there yourself. At dawn the enemy will be at the gates of the city, and the battle for Tahou will have begun. There is only one man that can help now, for there is only one person that can grant you access to the shaft of the Cauldron that descends to Zaaryx. That man is President Toltuda of Anari. Come, I will arrange an audience with him immediately.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect that these creatures have the ability to communicate telepathically, although it is one of their less developed skills. Their leader appears to be a female, she is taller and lighter in colour than the rest. You take the risk of calling to her telepathically, and she responds by turning to face you. When her companions see what has attracted her attention, they shriek with fear and scurry down the stairs, carrying with them the egg, which they cradle protectively in their webbed hands. But she remains and speaks to you with her mind. <thought>You are unlike the other man-things that have ventured into our domain. What is it that you seek? Care you not what happens to those of your kind who trespass here?</thought> The reptilian points to the far end of the hall, where a group of ghouls are huddled in the shadows. Your skin creeps as you realize they were once men like you.</p>
- <p><quote>I seek the Lorestone,</quote> you reply, boldly. <quote>I am the Kai Lord Lone Wolf and I quest for the wisdom of Nyxator that I may vanquish the spawn of his enemies and save my people from destruction.</quote></p>
- <p>Her harsh gaze softens as your proud words fill her mind. You sense a sadness within her, but she replies with words of joy. <quote>Your quest will be fulfilled, as it was by your sire many centuries ago. We have waited long for your coming, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, and we will fulfil our duty to He that gave us life.</quote></p>
- <p>Without an outward sign she beckons you to follow her, and you comply without hesitation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is only one group of standing stones that offers enough cover for you, Banedon, and your mounts, and they are situated very close to the highway along which the cavalry must pass.</p>
- <p>You wait tensely as the thunder of their hooves grows steadily louder. Then, suddenly, your horse rears up, startled by a snake, which has slithered around its foreleg.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The evil blade crackles and spits as you draw it from your belt. A flicker of fear in the Zakhan's eye tells you that he recognizes the weapon you wield and knows that it has the power to penetrate his energy shield.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to throw the dagger at him, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to engage him in hand-to-hand combat, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The eating house is crowded with soldiers. They sit at benches drawn up to long oak tables or sprawl around a log fire that crackles in a broad stone grate. Your entrance causes them to pause in their noisy conversations as they look you up and down. However, their curiosity is soon satisfied and they return to their feasting and boasting.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="156" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>This way, gentlemen,</quote> beckons the owner, and leads you through the crowd to a table in the corner of the high-ceilinged room. Banedon hands him a clutch of silver Lune and the jolly red-cheeked man waddles away to fetch you food and ale. The soldiers are dressed in a variety of uniforms, many of which you recognize to be the tunics of mercenary regiments from the Stornlands. Two of these soldiers of fortune share your table. They talk in hushed tones and cast nervous glances at another group of men sitting near the fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you wish to talk to these soldiers, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you decide to say nothing while you wait for your food, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In spite of your fatigue, your reactions are lightning fast. You regain your grip in an instant and raise your foot to steady yourself against the jagged outcrop. Then, as soon as the ladder ceases to twist like an angry snake, you continue your descent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a deadly predator of the Anarian plain. Owing to the speed of its attack, you cannot avoid fighting.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You are in combat with a deadly predator of the<br />Anarian plain, the Anarian Sky-snake</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="654" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="654" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Anarian Sky-snake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain due to its venomous fangs and claws. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If the fight lasts longer than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><thought>Lay down your weapon, mortal, for I have power enough at my command to blast you to sightless atoms!</thought> The reptilian raises her webbed hand and from the darkness of a dozen arches protrude tubes of glowing crystal, each one charged with a pulse of destructive energy that is aimed at you. <thought>Tell me what draws you here, lest my patience fail!</thought> she demands.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you sheathe your weapon and obey her command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus on the guard and launch a pulse of psychic energy at his brain. He has no defence against such an attack and his entire body immediately begins to shake violently. Four seconds later he lapses into unconsciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw a hand weapon just in time to parry the sergeant's attack. His blade glances away and he curses your speed as you duck his sweeping backstroke. With a growl, he pulls his horse away and orders six of his men to cut you down.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Anarian Rangers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare unblinkingly into his cruel, dark eyes. Suddenly he lunges forward, a curved dagger gleaming in his hand. Its razor-sharp blade speeds towards your throat, but you counter his attack in an instant with a savage swipe that shears his arm off at the elbow. Arm and dagger fall to the table and the soldier falls screaming to the floor. His comrade kicks back his bench and steps away as he fumbles for his sword. With a drunken yell he whirls the heavy blade around his head and leaps forward to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drunken Mercenary</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you stay and win the combat, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At last the grisly creature surrenders to death and collapses at your feet. You sheathe your weapon and kneel over its torn body, drawn by the sight of a ring on a finger of its right hand. It gleams incredibly, as though only minutes old, and the deep yellow stone that is set in the silvery metal glows with an eldritch light.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="124" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="124" />
- </illustration>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Psychic Ring, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item that you keep in your pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A serving girl ushers you into an adjoining room, where smoke from an open charcoal fire spirals up to the roof, filling the air with its pungent aroma. You seat yourselves at a round oak table and the girl brings two plates loaded with broiled ghorka steak and roasted parsnips. Two tankards of ale serve to wash down the feast which Banedon, in a generous mood, pays for with twelve silver Lune.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="156" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Having satisfied your hunger and revived your strength (you may restore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost on your adventure so far), you bid Banedon goodnight and retire to your room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land heavily among the rocks and debris, gashing open both knees and your chin before rolling to a halt at the base of the tower wall (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have survived the jump, you enter the tower; <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run from the staircase as quickly as you can and follow a corridor that heads towards the front of the Anarium. In the distance you can see an entrance hall teeming with people, and two soldiers, both armed with halberds, standing on guard with their backs towards you. To your left there is a window and you look through to see your carriage parked close to the side of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to escape through the window, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to escape along the corridor, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no time to choose which equipment to keep and which to throw away.</p>
- <p>Count up the number of Backpack Items you possess and, if there is an odd number, erase the last one on your list. Divide this list in two and mark one with an <quote>H</quote> and the other with a <quote>T</quote>. Now take a coin and flick it in the air. If the coin shows <quote>heads</quote>, erase all the Items on the <quote>H</quote> list. If it shows <quote>tails</quote>, erase all the Items on the <quote>T</quote> list.</p>
- <p>Once you have made the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the pass side by side, galloping your white Anarian steeds along the rubbish-strewn road that winds its way through the deserted settlement. As you pass the watchtower, a chilling howl rises from the shadows behind the huts. Then, like demons from a nightmare, a host of snarling Giaks bursts into view, riding from their hiding places astride giant Doomwolves. They thunder towards you on either side, shrieking and thrusting their spears at the darkening sky.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the massive body of the Zadragon crashes lifelessly to the floor of the chamber, you turn and run back to the door, where you concentrate all your Kai skills upon freeing the jammed lock. The intense concentration bleeds you of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before your persistence pays off.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect94-1-foot" idref="sect94-1">
- <p>Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The alley is dark and narrow. You draw on all your Kai skills to scour the inky blackness ahead, but you can detect no movement among the ramshackle houses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Torch and Tinderbox,<a id="sect94-1" idref="sect94-1-foot" class="footnote" /> or a Lantern, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you do not possess any of these Items or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Cut him down!</quote> shouts the sergeant, pointing at you with his axe. The soldiers release their taut bowstrings and two blue-feathered arrows scream towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If it is 4&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately you sense that the signpost is pointing in the wrong direction. Tahou lies to the north, yet this signpost is pointing towards the River Churdas in the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to ignore the signpost and continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to question the farm hands, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect97-1-foot" idref="sect97-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken by the stench of decay. A grey-skinned being, squatting on its haunches, stares down at you with grim, inhuman eyes. Drool trickles from its ragged lips and the rusty sword it holds in its twisted, man-like hand is lifted to kill.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Zaaryx Ghoul stares down at you<br />with grim, inhuman eyes</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="610" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="610" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect97-1" idref="sect97-1-foot" class="footnote">Zaaryx Ghoul</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of this attack you cannot make use of a bow. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 3 from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hold there!</quote> booms the mercenary leader. <quote>We've a debt to settle.</quote> He flips his cloak aside to show his sword in its scabbard and motions two of his men to the door to cut off your escape. The protests of the hall owner go unheeded as the leader draws his sword and signals his men to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Deldenian Mercenaries</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to evade the combat after one round, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you stay and win the combat, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkarim assault-troopers crouch behind their oblong shields, waiting for their chance to storm the gate. You draw your arrow and take aim at the engineer's screen. You will have only a second in which to fire as he steps forward to slip the final plank in place.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with Bow, add 3 to the number you have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tahou, an ancient stronghold containing a vast city, is a formidable and wondrous sight in the moonlight, the imposing walls and towers of red stone and grey rock assume the softening sheen of velvet, and the city is often referred to as <quote>The velvet fortress</quote>. Beyond the towers and high curtain wall you can see a thousand spires and minarets, grouped as thickly as the trees of a forest. Tiny lights twinkle in countless windows and portals, adding to the splendour of the mighty capital.</p>
- <p>Near to the city's South Gate, the highway is flanked by beacons which illuminate those who approach the gatehouse. A drawbridge spans a moat of black water and, as you ride across, a bell tolls from the portcullised archway ahead.</p>
- <p><quote>Two civilian riders at the South Gate,</quote> yells a soldierly voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Raise the postern,</quote> shouts another.</p>
- <p>There is a clatter of chains and a scraping of stone. You watch the portcullis, expecting it to rise, but it does not move, Instead, a narrow portal opens at the base of the wall and an armoured guard steps from the shadows. He motions you to enter and you follow Banedon along a corridor of stone, leading to a secure enclosure. You glance upwards to see the faces of a dozen soldiers, peering down at you from behind a parapet that encircles the high enclosure walls. All of them grasp loaded crossbows which they train on you as you move. Then a small gate creaks open and two guards appear, armed with broad-bladed spears.</p>
- <p><quote>Who are you?</quote> one demands in a gruff tone. <quote>Why do you seek entry to Tahou?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you have an Invitation and wish to show it, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you wish to tell the guards that you have come to offer your services in the defence of the city, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you wish to say that you intend to enter the Tahou Cauldron, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pulses of psychic energy leap from the gem, washing over you in waves that leave you shaking and breathless. Your Psi-screen protects your nervous system but you are unable to stop the pulses from penetrating deep into your mind. The man commands you to reveal the real reason you are here. Steadily he increases the force of his mind-gem until you can no longer resist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Four muscular mercenaries, all wearing tunics of emerald green leather emblazoned with the owl's head crest of Delden, rise from their seats near the fire and stare coldly in your direction. They point at the soldiers on your table, curse loudly, and then strut across the crowded hall, barging aside anyone that gets in their way. The two soldiers break out in a sweat and glare at each other fearfully.</p>
- <p><quote>Treacherous scum!</quote> spits the leading mercenary, grabbing them both by the collar and hauling them to their feet. <quote>A thousand Lune went missing from the regiment's pay chest the night you two were supposed to be guarding it. Neither o' you have got brains or guts enough to steal it yourselves, so who was it, eh?</quote></p>
- <p>The soldiers are scared out of their wits. They have no idea who stole the money, but they know their leader will have them flogged to death unless they tell him what he wants to know. In desperation, one of the men points a trembling finger at you and Banedon. <quote>It was them&ellips; they did it, they did it!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to deny this false charge, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to avoid a confrontation by leaving the eating house, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to draw a weapon in case the mercenaries attack you out of hand, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The approach to the village is deserted: it is as if its inhabitants have simply dropped everything and left in a great hurry. A window shutter slams repeatedly in the breeze and a rusty sign, hanging by chains from a warehouse beam, squeaks like a hungry rat; they are the only sounds you hear as you advance cautiously along the narrow, cobbled wharf. As you reach the corner of the warehouse you stop your horse dead in its tracks. You can hear the harsh voices of Giak soldiers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect104-1-foot" idref="sect104-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect104-2-foot" idref="sect104-2">
- <p>Regardless of how many rounds the combat lasts, you must defeat the ghoul before continuing.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step from the hollow, a weight drops on to your back and drags you to your knees. Long, sharp fingers, as hard as steel, clamp around your throat and the sound of gnashing fangs fills your ears. You twist and roll, hoping to break from the creature's grip, but its hold is unnaturally strong.</p>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect104-1" idref="sect104-1-foot" class="footnote">Ghoul</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the duration of the fight unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery or Divination.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322"><a id="sect104-2" idref="sect104-2-foot" class="footnote">If the fight lasts longer than three rounds,</a> <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gwynian dispatches a messenger to the Anarium, the House of the Senate, where members of the governing council have gathered for an emergency assembly called by the President himself. Within the hour, the messenger returns with a furled parchment bearing the presidential seal. <quote>He has agreed to hear your plea, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Gwynian, his eyes scanning the official reply. This news raises your flagging spirits but the sage seems a little disappointed.</p>
- <p><quote>I was hoping for a private audience with the President,</quote> he says, <quote>but in view of the current crisis, I suppose it is the best we can expect. You must appear before the Senate this evening, and state your reasons for wishing to enter the Tahou Cauldron. They will consider your request and vote accordingly. Their decision will be final.</quote></p>
- <p>He hands you the scroll and arranges for his personal carriage to take you to the Anarium. As you climb aboard and sink into the plush, upholstered seat, you exchange a farewell wave with Gwynian the Sage. <quote>May the gods watch over you,</quote> he says, <quote>and may you live to fulfil your destiny.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The seed explodes with a flash and illuminates the staircase with its vivid yellow flame. Halfway down the stairs you notice an object that was dropped by one of the reptilians as it made its hasty escape. It is a hexagonal piece of metal, embossed with a numerical design.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have seen and examined one of these hexagonal tokens at a previous stage in your quest, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you have never examined one of these tokens before, you may look at this one; <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">Or you may leave it untouched and descend the stairs; <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A gurgling scream echoes from the alleyway&emdash;your arrow has found its mark. Seconds later the Giak staggers into view, its arms thrashing wildly as it tries to grab hold of the shaft buried deep in the middle of its back. In desperation, it draws a dagger from its boot and attempts to throw it at you, but a wave of pain engulfs the creature at that moment and the vicious blade slips harmlessly from its grasp. With one last curse it swoons and drops lifelessly to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you wish to search the bodies of the slain Giaks, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to leave and follow the track that leads out of the village, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wagon races along the rubble-strewn street towards a tower, one of many that reinforce the city wall. Standing at the top of the tower is your companion, Banedon. You ask the captain to stop and let you speak to your old friend, but he refuses even to slow down. <quote>I must reach the North Gate without delay!</quote> he bellows, and whips the horses to increase their speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to jump off the wagon as it passes the tower, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you choose to stay on the wagon and go to the North Gate with the captain, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We're both students of Chiban the Magician,</quote> says Banedon, hurriedly trying to defuse the situation. <quote>He lives at the Guildhouse on Leech Street in the North District. He will vouch for us.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Hold your tongue!</quote> snaps the commander at your startled companion. <quote>I want your friend to tell me something about this city, the city that he is prepared to lay down his life for.</quote> He moves nearer and stares at you icily. <quote>In which district of Tahou is the Cauldron to be found?</quote></p>
- <p>You know that the city is divided into four districts each named after a point of the compass, but you cannot recall in which district the Cauldron lies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you choose to answer, <quote>The North District</quote>, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you choose to answer, <quote>The South District</quote>, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you decide to answer, <quote>The West District</quote>, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you wish to answer, <quote>The East District</quote>, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you decide to give no answer at all, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This narrow thoroughfare descends to a maze of broken streets and dank passages that carry traffic to and from the city's North District. Guided by your basic Kai tracking skill, you wend your way through the dingy lanes until you arrive finally at Leech Street and the house of Chiban the Magician.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your passage through the wheat fields is slow and laborious. Drainage ditches, cut seemingly at random, criss-cross the plain. They ensnare your horse's hooves causing him to stumble and fall. Twice you are thrown, and on the second occasion you gash your head badly on a jagged rock&emdash;lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Later, by chance, you happen upon a cart track that crosses the plain from left to right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Primate or higher, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to follow the track to the left, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to follow the track to the right, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The last thing you see is the huge stone ball as it falls on you.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you lose your life here at the siege of Tahou.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A guard pushes open the enclosure gate and motions you to leave. You are free to enter the city, but your horses are impounded. You protest and demand that they be returned, but to no avail. <quote>Order of the Senate,</quote> says the commander, offhandedly, <quote>an emergency decree. All horses belonging to the civil population must be delivered into the care of the garrison stables until the state of emergency is lifted.</quote></p>
- <p>Reluctantly you allow the guards to take your steeds and, as they are being led away, the commander hands you each a piece of vellum stamped with a date and a number. <quote>Receipts for the horses,</quote> he says, his tone noticeably more friendly.</p>
- <p>You pocket the Receipt (mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item that you keep in your pocket; owing to its size you need not discard another item in its favour if you already have your maximum number of Items) and are about to walk away when he calls out, <quote>Report to the citadel first thing in the morning. You'll be allocated your battle positions for when the enemy attack.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With determined strokes you rise through the black water and break the surface, coughing and gasping for air. At first the incredible coldness stunned your senses, but now it revives them and spurs you to swim towards the distant shore, gleaming faintly in the half-light.</p>
- <p>Aching and numb to the bone, you heave yourself out of the lake and collapse on the flat, spongy rocks that line the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect115-1-foot" idref="sect115-1">
- <p>To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections</a> list and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer to the Khmar's riddle, the footnotes for that section will tell you so.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is the father's turn to ask a riddle, but firstly you must decide on your stake. You can choose to gamble either one Special Item or three Backpack Items. If you should fail to answer the riddle correctly you will forfeit the Item (or Items) you have staked. If you answer the riddle correctly you will win the chance to pick any two items from the father's hoard of valuables. Put a tick on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> beside the item or items that you wish to stake.</p>
- <p>A hush descends as you wait for the riddle patiently. The father, whose name is Khmar, draws his dagger from its scabbard and lays it on the table. Then he rests his hand on the shoulder of his eldest son and says, <quote>This dagger is now half as old as my son Loen was when the dagger was new. Loen is now fifteen years old. How old is the dagger?</quote></p>
- <choice>If you think you can answer the riddle, <a id="sect115-1" idref="sect115-1-foot" class="footnote">turn to the entry number that is the same as the answer.</a></choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you cannot answer the riddle, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The reptilians see a glint of light reflected in the mirror and they discharge their weapon at the gap in the door. Only the speed of your reflexes saves you from death as a bolt of energy explodes with a deafening noise, showering you with sparks and fragments of stone. Wiping the grit from your eyes, you seize the chance to attack the reptilians. As you emerge from the blackened hole in the door, their long jaws drop open in shocked surprise.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crocaryx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> losses that you sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard receives a fatal wound to the heart. He gasps, his sword slipping from his fingers as he crashes lifelessly to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Discipline enables you to filter air from the massive dust cloud without inhaling any of the harmful grit. The cloud contains spores of a fungus that is deadly to humans, but your Kai skill shields you from these perilous microscopic cells.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The vicious blade pierces your skin, but you pull away instinctively, saving yourself from a far more serious wounding: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Drawing blood has made the mercenaries overconfident. They advance around the table, cursing and taunting you with their knives.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drunken Mercenaries</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you stay and win the combat, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you slip from the saddle and peer around the corner. In the middle of the street beyond, a company of Giak scouts are sifting through items they have looted from the village. Two of the evil creatures are loading their booty on to the back of a Kraan, a large, black-winged creature, while the others cram their ill-gotten gains in their pockets and packs. What they cannot carry they delight in despoiling, leaving behind a trail of filth and debris in the buildings they have ransacked.</p>
- <p><quote>Oka der!</quote> shouts their officer, brandishing a long, black sword with a jagged edge. <quote>Akamaza ek!</quote> His greedy soldiers are reluctant to obey his commands, but a few blows with the flat of his blade quickly change their minds. Muttering and snarling, they scurry off into a side alley, reappearing a few minutes later astride large, grey wolves. <quote>Rekenara kluz!</quote> growls the officer, and the pack ride out of the village, heading north along the bank of the River Churdas.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Two Giak scouts are loading their booty<br />on to the back of a Kraan</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="636" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="636" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The Kraan and its two riders take to the air, but the beast is so overburdened with loot that it cannot clear the rooftops. Frantically it beats its leathery wings, hovering erratically just a few feet off the ground. The Giaks urge it on with kicks and punches, but to no avail. Suddenly it lurches forward and the Giaks tumble headfirst on to the cobblestones a few feet from where you stand. <quote>Orgadaka!</quote> they cry, as they catch sight of you and Banedon hiding at the corner.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you wish to attack the Giaks with a hand weapon before they have a chance to stand, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you choose to avoid combat by remounting your horse and galloping along the track that leads out of the village, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of your running feet is lost amid the noise and bustle of the crowded hall, and the guards do not hear you as you sprint towards their backs. All they see is a blur of green as you duck under their crossed halberds and disappear into the teeming.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fearfully you approach the shadow until you can discern its gruesome features. It is a ghoul, similar to those you encountered in the hollow, but this creature looks even less human. Its swollen skull is set lopsided on its withered frame, and the long black tongue that hangs from its jagged mouth drips with a sticky black venom that bubbles like boiling acid as it hits the ground. It raises a wasted hand and a cone of mist whirls towards your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="212" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you do not possess this Magnakai skill, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A rough dirt track leads away from the hut and into the hills above. It is a precarious path to follow, especially on horseback and at dusk. Only your quick wits and Kai skills keep you and your horse from plunging into the steep-sided gullies that border the rocky track.</p>
- <p>Eventually you arrive at a junction, where the path meets a wider road heading north and south. A signpost lies shattered on the ground, but instinctively you know that the north route leads to Tahou. You point the way and Banedon acknowledges your signal with a wave. As you turn on to the highway you suddenly feel that you are being watched. Pinpoints of red fire glint in the darkness and the sound of hungry, panting Doomwolves comes to you on the night air. Before you can shout a warning, a shrill scream splits the night&emdash;it is the chilling sound of a Giak battle-cry. You are being attacked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In addition to your supplies, Senator Chil provides the winch, ropes and cradle by which you will be lowered into the shaft that descends to Zaaryx. Upon your arrival at the Square of the Dragons he supervises the assembly of these vital components, while you stand with Senator Zilaris and stare in awe at the Cauldron itself.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="155" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="155" />
- </illustration>
- <p>In the glow of a hundred lanterns it takes on the appearance of a huge, steep-sided sink that is stoppered with a plug of stone. The key to this plug is a rod of Korlinium that, until this evening, was kept locked in the vaults of the Anarium. Now it rests in the hands of the President. Senator Chil signals that his work is complete and the President inserts the crystal rod into the plug of ancient stone. At first nothing happens. Then you sense a vibration beneath your feet. Crackling tongues of pale blue fire lap the rim of the plug and the hiss of escaping air breaks the seal of three centuries' grime that holds the plug in place. Levers and ropes are brought into action and slowly the great block is lifted and the shaft to Zaaryx uncovered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deadly arrows pierce your heart and stomach. Pain engulfs you like a raging fire, but a chilling numbness soon follows, washing over you like a wave of soothing balm. You fight to stay on your feet but darkness encroaches on all sides: it is the cold embrace of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The officer in charge of the mounted escort rides forward to meet you. He wears silvered Anarian mail and a winged helmet embossed with the crest of Tahou.</p>
- <p><quote>Hail, captain!</quote> says Banedon, upon seeing his crown-shaped badge of rank. The man narrows his eyes and regards you both with suspicion. He is about to reach for his sword when a woman shouts from the leading wagon.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="219" height="262" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Banedon! Banedon! Is that you?</quote></p>
- <p>Your companion recognizes the woman and returns her wave. <quote>Lortha! By the stars, I had not expected to meet you here,</quote> he says in a surprised tone. The captain relaxes his guard and motions to the wagons to move on, anxious that his entourage is not delayed on the highway.</p>
- <p><quote>You can fall in with us or save your reunion till we reach Navasari,</quote> he says, curtly, and rides on without waiting for a reply.</p>
- <p><quote>Lortha is the wife of Chiban, a famous Tahouese magician. He was my mentor when I lived and studied in the city,</quote> says Banedon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish Banedon to talk to this woman, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you insist that you both continue your journey without delay, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>They are lying,</quote> you say, your voice calm yet forceful. <quote>We have never seen these men before.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We have only just arrived in the city,</quote> says Banedon. <quote>We know nothing about your missing gold.</quote></p>
- <p>Contemptuously, the mercenary leader hurls the trembling men aside and reaches for his sword. <quote>We too have only just arrived. Our silver was stolen during our march here.</quote> He steps back a pace and draws his blade. <quote>Take 'em, lads!</quote> he cries, and leads the attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Deldenian Mercenaries</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to evade combat after one round, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you stay and win the combat, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zakhan gloats over your pain and moves forward to exploit his advantage. You grit your teeth and raise your sword to defend yourself against his attack. You are aware of the Zakhan's troops fighting a desperate battle at the West Gate, and you know that you must defeat him or the city will be lost.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zakhan Kimah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the depths of the tunnel, a glistening form is slowly slinking into view. Gnarled plates like armour encase its barrel chest, and lidless slit-pupilled eyes stare coldly from beneath its ridged forehead. A low, grating rumble issues from its fanged mouth as it increases its pace and makes ready to pounce.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The glistening form of the Cave Leekhon slinks into view</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="656" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="656" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Cave Leekhon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you descend the staircase, expecting the unexpected, your weapon held ready in case the reptilians attempt a surprise attack. The glow of your light washes over the black stone stairs below and you freeze in your tracks when you notice a poorly concealed trap. Carefully you step over the snare and continue towards a door at the bottom of the stairs. It is unlocked and slightly ajar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you have a Mirror, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to push open the door and continue, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to push open the door and flatten yourself to the floor, in case the reptilians have prepared an ambush for you, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron door to the tower is unlocked and you enter unopposed. At the top of the steep stone steps you find a ladder to a trapdoor. Quickly you climb the ladder and emerge on to the roof. <quote>By the gods!</quote> exclaims Banedon, when you appear. <quote>My prayers have been answered. You are alive, Lone Wolf. You are alive!</quote> Tears of joy fill his eyes as he welcomes your return warmly.</p>
- <p>He and his mentor Chiban have been viewing the siege from this vantage point for the last three days. From this position they control the movement of the few reserves allocated to the north and west city walls, using them to fill in the gaps where the enemy's attacks have weakened the defences. Banedon recounts how the siege has progressed; how twice the enemy have broken into the city and been repelled by the determined defenders. Attacks from the air have set the city ablaze, but the enemy have lost great numbers of their flying Kraan, and now they are too weak to dare use the few that remain. The Anarium was destroyed in the first few hours of the siege and many senators lost their lives, including Senator Chil and President Toltuda.</p>
- <p>Then he asks of your quest and is overjoyed to hear of its success. <quote>The gods smile on you, Lone Wolf. So long as you live there is hope for us all.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect258"><link-text>Turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I'll not have you sleeping in the stables, old friend!</quote> says Banedon, as he flicks open his money pouch. He hands the tavern owner twenty-four freshly minted Lune, and in return Guyuk gives you each a key to your room and offers you both a glass of lovka on the house. Gratefully you accept and down the warming liquor in one gulp.</p>
- <p>You notice that a man and his two young sons are sitting at the far end of your table. They appear to be gambling with a group of plains farmers seated opposite, although you see no money change hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to move along the table and sit next to them, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to engage Guyuk in conversation, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to order some food, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery alerts you to a trap set immediately ahead. The surface of one of the stairs is thin and conceals a shallow box lined with barbed hooks. If you were to tread on the stair, your foot would shatter the cover and become ensnared among the hooks, incapacitating you and injuring your foot severely. Carefully you step over this trap before continuing down the stairs.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you are bathed in a white light that emanates from holes in the stone ceiling, and at once you see the bottom of the staircase twenty yards ahead. There is a door at the foot of the stairs and it is slightly ajar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you have a Mirror, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to push open this door and continue, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to push open the door and flatten yourself to the floor in case the reptilians have prepared an ambush for you, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron door slams shut and you are left alone to contemplate your unfortunate arrival in Tahou. The cell is narrow and damp, with patches of mould that discolour the red stone walls. The uneven floor is strewn with filthy, mouldy straw and the stale air is heavy with the stench of rotting food and sewage. A solitary window is criss-crossed with bronze bars, green with age, and below it a thousand scratches record the passing days of another visitor that fell foul of the gatehouse guard. Anxiously you cast your eyes around this filthy prison, searching for a chink in its armour that could lead to your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or higher, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Amid chaos and confusion you leave the ale cellar through a concealed door in the wall of the arch. It opens on to a sloping passage that descends to a tunnel lit by oil-soaked torches fixed at random along the tiled walls. A foul smell assails your nostrils&emdash;the unmistakable stench of an underground sewer. You follow Sogh along a narrow ledge that runs parallel to a sluggish sewage channel, taking care not to slip on the slime-encrusted tiles. After a few minutes, he halts beneath one of the spluttering torches and presses its rusty iron bracket. There is a grating rumble and a section of the tunnel wall opens to reveal an amazing sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243"><link-text>Turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The burly sergeant snatches the parchment from your hand and studies it carefully. Without raising his head he asks how two Northlanders came to possess a personal invitation to one of Tahou's most respected households. When Banedon explains your meeting with Lortha, and how he was once a student of Chiban, her husband, the sergeant somewhat reluctantly accepts your story and returns the Invitation. <quote>Stay on the highway and make sure you reach Tahou by sunset,</quote> he says, as he signals to his troop to let you pass. <quote>Enemy scouts have been sighted in the hills south of the capital. If you're not inside the city walls by nightfall&ellips;</quote> He draws his finger quickly across his throat.</p>
- <p>You thank him for his advice and watch as he and his troop wheel away and ride south. You pocket the Invitation and glance apprehensively at Banedon before pressing on with your own journey north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bronze beacon, the Anarian symbol of law and order, is fixed into a plinth of marble that stands beside the President's chair. He moves his finger to a button on the arm of the chair and all eyes turn to stare at the beacon. There is a flash of ignition and a jet of red flame roars upwards towards the domed ceiling. <quote>Seize him!</quote> shouts Senator Chil. <quote>Seize Lone Wolf!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="205" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The President has voted against you, and now the Senate guards are closing in on all sides to arrest you. In a single bound, you leave your seat and sprint along the gallery towards an empty staircase. To your right a guard is rushing to intercept your escape. He is unarmed but he has a net with which he hopes to ensnare you. He casts it as you are about to descend the stairs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If your total is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the grace of a panther you leap from the swinging ladder and land safely in the centre of the narrow ledge. You advance along this rubble-strewn shelf of black stone, following it as it descends through a layer of swirling mist that glows with a faint blue-green luminescence. Below the mist lies a chamber; its walls are scarred with deep furrows, as if it was excavated from solid rock by a huge clawed hand.</p>
- <p>Close to the wall lies what appears to be a large bundle of rags. But as you approach them you suddenly realize that they are more than simply rags: they contain the skeletal remains of a human body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to examine the body, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to ignore it and explore the chamber, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The lever that opens the exit panel is near the ceiling,</quote> whispers Sogh, casting nervous glances over his shoulder. He can hear the guards scratching at the wall behind, trying to locate the brick which opens the concealed entrance. Your fingers find the lever and you pull it. The panel slides aside and you both step out into an empty horse stall. As the panel slides back into position, you jam it with a piece of timber. Fortunately the stables are empty of guards and it is easy to make your escape through a side window that gives access to an alley.</p>
- <p><quote>Good luck, Northlander. I hope you find your friend. Remember, they have him locked up at the Eastgate Barracks,</quote> says Sogh. You bid him farewell, and as you watch him disappear into the shadows, you consider your best course of action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you decide to make your way to the Eastgate Barracks, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you decide to seek the help of Chiban the Magician, Banedon's former teacher, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill, you concentrate and focus your telescopic vision on the distant horizon. Gradually the image magnifies until you can see clearly that the glimmer is a wide, fast-flowing river. Your basic Kai sense of tracking tells you it is the River Churdas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you wish to continue your ride towards the River Churdas, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you wish to retrace your tracks to the highway, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall like a stone into the whirling blackness. In desperation you thrust out your arms, hoping to seize an outcrop or ledge, but there is nothing in the void for you to grasp. The freezing wind screams past your face and your senses are overwhelmed by the horror of your impending doom. Suddenly an icy shock engulfs you as you strike the surface of a lake and plunge into its lightless depths. Stunned by the sudden impact and numbed by the icy water, you sink several fathoms before you can muster your strength and strike out for the surface.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The courthouse of the Chief Magistrate is a grim, grey building. Devoid of any decoration or embellishment, its stark bare walls serve to remind the Tahouese of its sober purpose. It is a place where justice is meted out to wrongdoers. Harsh punishments are imposed: floggings and executions take place here every day of the week. All trials are conducted before a magistrate, and his decision is final as there are no juries in Tahou. The Chief Magistrate presides over crimes that are serious enough to warrant the death penalty, and your heart sinks when you learn that he is to sit in judgement of you.</p>
- <p>You put up quite a struggle, but your shackles prevent you from breaking free of your armed escort. They drag you into the courtroom and throw you face down into an iron cage that stands before the Chief Magistrate's chair. A bell is struck to signal the arrival of the Chief Magistrate and he enters the court surrounded by an entourage of scribes. The bell rings once more and the scribes say with one voice, <quote>This session is now in hearing.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you have ever visited the city of Varetta or a hut on the Ruanon Pike, in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you have never visited either of these places, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect that someone is hiding in a cellar, located directly below where you are now standing. Access to this hiding place is via a trapdoor in the far corner of the hut, close to the fireplace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to open the trapdoor and demand that the person show himself, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you choose to ignore the trapdoor and search the hut instead, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to push the bed across the trapdoor, thereby sealing it, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your improved mastery, you move forward silently, pillar by pillar, until you are within a few feet of the creatures. Their heads resemble those of baby crocodiles, but their bodies and forelimbs are toad-like and covered with hard, shiny scales. They chatter incessantly and, judging by their behaviour and speech patterns, they are sentient beings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The afternoon passes swiftly as you ride across endless miles of treeless grassland. You stumble upon no village or hamlet and spend the hours listening to Banedon's account of recent events in Sommerlund and the Lastlands. Three years have passed since you were last in the land of your birth, and you are hungry to hear all that has transpired since then.</p>
- <p>It is an hour past sunset and night is drawing its black cloak around you when you see a flickering red light on the road ahead: it is the village of Chadi. A great fire roars in the hearth of Guyuk's Tavern in Chadi, inviting the travel-sore to stop and warm their weary bones. You decide to stay overnight and, as soon as you have stabled your horses, you enter the tavern to ask the price of a room. The taproom is surprisingly quiet. It is full of villagers and farmers but they are a sullen crowd, content to sit in silence and brood over their glasses of lovka, a strong Slovian rye spirit named after the town where it was first distilled.</p>
- <p>Guyuk, the tavern owner, greets you with a nervous nod of his shiny bald head and shows you to a table. There are no bars or counters in Anarian taverns; instead, the customers sit at long banqueting tables and wait for the owner and his staff to serve them. He smiles uneasily as he answers your enquiry about a room. <quote>A single room with a bed would be twelve Lune each.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you have enough money to pay for a room (twelve Lune equals four Gold Crowns), do so, and <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you do not have sufficient Lune or Gold Crowns to pay for a room, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon you arrive at a part of the city that Banedon remembers well. It borders a large public garden called the Rainbow Park, so named because of the vast number of rare and colourful flowers that grow there. The park is now an encampment for those who have answered the President's desperate call for defenders. Survivors from the towns of Resa and Zila have joined forces with green-clad Daroga woodsmen, tough hill-dwellers from the Chah mountain valley, and river-folk from the Churdas, forming regiments to reinforce the Tahou garrison. Their battle-stained banners, lit by the flickering glow of a hundred camp fires, flutter above the tents that fill the great park.</p>
- <p>Opposite the entrance stands the Guildhall of Tailors. You turn into an avenue running beside this imposing hall, then cross into the North District by means of alleys and side streets, and finally emerge at Leech Street, just opposite the house of Chiban the Magician. His is a grand building of polished red stone set with small, diamond-paned windows that twinkle like cat's eyes in the moonlight. You pass beneath its arched gateway and climb the magnificent tiled steps that lead to a black oak door. Banedon raps the knocker and you wait patiently for it to open.</p>
- <p>Minutes later the great door swings aside and the aristocratic figure of Chiban stands framed in the doorway. Keen-eyed and grey-haired, he welcomes you both with surprise and delight.</p>
- <p><quote>Banedon!</quote> he exclaims, like a father reunited with a long lost son. <quote>How good it is to see you. But what brings you to Tahou at this darkest of hours? Have you come to offer your skills in the defence of our beleaguered city?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>My services are yours to command, my lord Chiban,</quote> answers Banedon, bowing respectfully to his former mentor. <quote>Yet also I return to your esteemed household to seek your help at the behest of King Ulnar of Sommerlund. May I introduce my companion&emdash;Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>Chiban turns his kindly gaze on you and smiles knowingly. <quote>I am honoured to meet you, Kai Lord,</quote> he says. <quote>I have knowledge of that which you seek and I shall aid you all I can in your search for it.</quote></p>
- <p>He beckons you to enter and the door closes behind you, seemingly of its own accord. You follow Chiban to his study. The musty room is lined with massive wooden racks full of books and papers. At its centre a large, circular table is completely covered with the implements of his magical researches. He clears a space amid the clutter and motions you to sit. <quote>You must both be famished after your journey here. Come, eat and enjoy!</quote> For a few seconds, a shimmering pool of light fills the space, then fades, leaving a sumptuous meal of grilled trout, baked potatoes, hakeroot and sparkling Anarian wine.</p>
- <p>If you have lost any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points on your adventure so far, you may now restore 3 points as you consume this delicious meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269"><link-text>Turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are covered in the blood of your foes. The stench is so unbearable that you have to wash in the lake before you can go any further. When you return to the hollow to collect your Backpack, you notice an odd-looking token lying next to one of the dead ghouls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to examine this token, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you choose to ignore it and leave this place, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Doomwolf breathes its last but its claws remain hooked in your saddle. You strive to cut it away but your horse can no longer bear its weight. With a neigh of terror, his legs buckle and you are thrown to the blood-soaked ground. Before you can regain your feet, you are set upon by the snarling Giak horde.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You are set upon by the snarling Giak horde</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="615" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="615" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>6 Doomwolves and Giak Riders</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">56</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must fight these creatures as one enemy. Owing to your fall, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The window is bolted shut. If you are determined to escape this way you will have to take the risk of jumping through a pane of thick glass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you still wish to escape through the window, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you choose to escape along the corridor instead, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A warm tingling runs through your body as the Lorestone descends into your hands and, as you touch the crystal, your senses become charged with a new vitality that obliterates the fatigue of your ordeal and fills you with new-found wisdom and strength (restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to its original total).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="202" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Then a swirl of colour engulfs your body and you feel yourself fall forward into the throat of a spinning vortex. The chamber dissolves and you begin to rise at an ever-increasing speed, as if you were falling upwards. A surge of light makes you close your eyes, but it passes in an instant and you find yourself staring down at an incredible and terrible sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2"><link-text>Turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the sky-snake rears to avoid your blow, Banedon steps forward and launches a bolt of lightning from his open hand. The pulse of energy tears into the creature's neck, almost severing its head from its body as it sends it spinning into the tall crops. Wiping the sweat from your brow, you thank your companion for a most effective helping hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A deafening roar fills the stairwell as a bolt of raw energy hurtles from the rod. You stare aghast as it speeds towards your chest and explodes with a splash of colour that is the last you will ever see.</p>
- <p>In the council chamber of the Elder Magi in Elzian, the golden torch flickers and dies. The members of the High Council hang their heads in sorrow for they know that your life and their hopes have ended here in Zaaryx.</p>
- <p>Your quest is over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gap between each rung measures approximately one foot, and you gather in over 400 rungs before reaching the end of the ladder. The thought of having to descend such an enormous depth fills you with dread, but your desire to find the Lorestone overcomes this fear. You feed the rope ladder back into the void and begin your descent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231"><link-text>Turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you kneel by the trapdoor, your basic Kai sense of Hunting reveals to you that someone is hiding in the cellar below. Carefully you raise the trapdoor and demand that the person show himself to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you decided to keep any of the items you discovered in the hut, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you did not keep any of the items, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the clothes and backpack of the dead pickpocket thoroughly and retrieve your stolen property. You also discover the following Items which the thief has hidden about his person:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>28 Lune (equivalent to 7 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Vial of Blue Pills</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above Items, remember to amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, you can identify the Blue Pills: <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to return to Brooker Court and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to continue along the alley instead, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room, which overlooks the courtyard and stables, is small yet surprisingly clean and comfortable. You sleep well, but you are rudely awoken at dawn by the clang of a brass hand-bell. Guyuk's wife is walking around the courtyard ringing it for all she's worth. <quote>Daybreak, daybreak! All awake, all awake!</quote> she cries, her voice only slightly less piercing than her bell. Quickly you wash and dress before gathering together your equipment and heading for the stables. Banedon is already there, having risen before dawn to prepare the horses.</p>
- <p>The sky is cloudless and the air is warm and still as you ride out of Chadi. Open grasslands stretch before you, broken occasionally by the low, whitewashed farm buildings and peasant dwellings. It is noon when you arrive at a mass of standing stones that line the highway approaches to the village of Phea. Banedon recalls a local legend that the Black Zakhan of Vassagonia once came to wage war on the defenceless inhabitants of Phea, who had no army. The besieged people offered up prayers to the goddess Ishir, who was sufficiently moved by their plight to cause the wicked Vassagonians to become petrified right where they stood, clad in full armour and clasping their weapons. It strikes you that the Pheans may very soon have cause to pray for Ishir's help a second time.</p>
- <p>A mile beyond the village you see a cloud of dust on the highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dress your wounds as best you can before advancing along the rubble-strewn ledge. You descend through a layer of swirling mist that glows with a faint blue-green luminescence. Below the mist lies a chamber; its walls are scarred with deep furrows, as if it was excavated from the solid rock by a huge clawed hand.</p>
- <p>Close to the wall lies a bundle of rags. As you approach it you suddenly realize that the skeletal remains of a human body are contained within the rags.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to examine the body, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to ignore it and explore the chamber, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your passage along Brooker Court is hampered by the companies of militiamen that march to and from the centre of the city. The majority of them are oafish peasants, hastily armed with spear and sword, and bullied into a semblance of soldierly order by guardsmen from the Tahou garrison. You wait in shadowy doorways and allow them to pass before continuing on your way towards the city's North District.</p>
- <p>You are nearing the end of Brooker Court when a man dressed in an ill-fitting tunic staggers drunkenly out of a tavern and collides with you. <quote>Shorry!</quote> he hiccups, and wanders off along an alley to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your improved Kai mastery at the flames that engulf the top of the staircase. Within a few seconds they flicker and die, allowing you to reach the first floor in safety. The captain is crouched over his brother, protecting him with his body from the fiery debris that is raining down from the roof. Swiftly you pull him to his feet and motion him to help carry his wounded brother out of the house. As you reach the street below, the roof collapses and the whole of the first floor is swallowed by flame.</p>
- <p><quote>We owe you our lives,</quote> says the captain, gratefully, as his men load his brother on to an open-backed wagon. <quote>I must return to my command at the North Gate&emdash;will you join me? I would be honoured to fight by your side.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to go with the captain to the North Gate, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you choose to decline his offer, you continue along the street towards the West Gate; <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tingle with a premonition of danger&emdash;you are sure that the watchtower and huts conceal an enemy, lying in ambush. You tell Banedon your fears and he looks ahead, his keen eyes narrowing, but the pass is dark with the gathering dusk and he cannot detect anything unusual about the settlement, except that it appears deserted.</p>
- <p><quote>If we avoid the pass, we'll have to make a wide detour and rejoin the highway at a place deeper in the hills,</quote> he says, scanning the shadowy highlands. <quote>Even if we don't get lost, we'll be lucky to reach Tahou before nightfall.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you wish to avoid the settlement and make a wide detour, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you decide to gallop through the pass, despite the risk of an ambush, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the experience of what happened when you last touched one of these strange tokens still fresh in your mind, you avoid picking up this one.However, this does not stop you from looking at its intricate design. This token is engraved with a mathematical equation and you calculate the answer to be 320. (Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, beneath the number you already have listed, as it may well prove useful at a later stage of your adventure.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once again you come face to face with the sergeant. He curses and strikes you across the cheek with the hilt of his sword, leaving you stunned and bloodied: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are dragged back to your cell and four armed guards are placed outside the door with orders to shoot to kill if you should attempt another escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Deduct from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> however many Gold Crowns (or Lune) you wish to give to the poor villagers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you give them three or more Gold Crowns, (twelve Lune), <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you give them less than three Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize Sogh, the thief who helped you escape from the South Gate tower. <quote>Hail, Northlander,</quote> he says, a wide grin spreading across his mouse-like face. <quote>So we meet again. What prompts you to visit the Purple Purse ale cellar?</quote></p>
- <p>Before you can reply, the door bursts open and in rush six heavily armed Senate House guards. Thinking that the ale cellar is being raided, something of a routine event here at the Purple Purse, the shady patrons drop their drinks and flee towards the open door in an attempt to escape arrest. Sogh grabs your sleeve and points to a shadowy archway. <quote>Time to leave,</quote> he hisses. <quote>Follow me.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sogh looks at the guard then looks at you in awe. <quote>How did you do that?</quote> he asks, incredulous. <quote>No time to explain,</quote> you reply, as you scramble out from beneath the stairs and move towards the unconscious guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect166-1-foot" idref="sect166-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you draw closer you can make out the gruesome features of the shadow. It is a ghoul, similar to those you encountered at the lake, but this creature looks even less human. Its swollen skull is set lopsided on its withered frame and its tongue drips with a sticky black venom. It raises a wasted hand and launches a whirl of mist towards your chest, but your psychic defence disperses this evil swirling cloud. The creature howls with frustration. Maniacally it hurls itself at your throat, a pitted iron spike clenched in its fist.</p>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect166-1" idref="sect166-1-foot" class="footnote">Psi-ghoul</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your mastery of the psychic disciplines, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quick reactions, coupled with your Kai mastery, save you from being detected by the approaching cavalry. Using your skill, you calm your startled horse whilst simultaneously repelling the large but harmless savanna snake coiled about its foreleg. Minutes later the cavalry pass by, oblivious to your presence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An open wagon, drawn by a team of battle-scarred horses, hurtles along the street that borders the city wall. Standing beside the driver is a captain of the Senate House Guard. His thick black hair billows out behind him like the wings of an eagle as he calls desperately for reinforcements for the North Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to answer his call by leaping on to his wagon, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you choose to ignore his call for help, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse rears up and leaps across the body of the dead Cave Leekhon, its senses ablaze with the choking, rancid odour of the Leekhon's spilt blood. Banedon's steed follows close on your heels as you race through the tunnel, heedless of the many obstacles strewn in your path. Suddenly you emerge from the suffocating passage into the chill evening air: you have escaped. From the slopes of a wooded hill you stare down at a tiny village called Varta, perched on the edge of the Tahou flats.</p>
- <p>The flats comprise fields of cultivated crops that form a fertile market garden two miles wide. They are farmed right up to the banks of the great moat that encircles the capital. Varta is deserted: its male inhabitants now shelter within the city walls, whilst the women and children have since travelled south to the safety of Navasari. As you ride through the empty village and descend on to the flats, you catch your first awe-inspiring view of the ancient city itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step over the dead bodies and head towards the exit, the door crashes open and in rushes a squad of guards from the South Gatehouse, summoned by the owner of the hall. They are all armed with crossbows, which they aim at your chest. <quote>Yield, Northlanders!</quote> orders their captain. <quote>You have no hope except our mercy.</quote></p>
- <p>You cast your eyes around the hall for another exit, but all are barred. Reluctantly you both raise your hands and are taken back to the South Gatehouse tower. Banedon, because he is a magician, is taken to another part of the city wall to be questioned, while you are imprisoned in a cell high in the tower itself.</p>
- <p>Place an <quote>x</quote> beside each of the Special Items, Backpack Items and Weapons listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> to indicate that they are no longer in your possession. Only if you rediscover them at a later stage of your adventure may you erase each <quote>x</quote> and reuse them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect171-1-foot" idref="sect171-1">
- <p>Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow whistles across the hall and smashes harmlessly against the armour-hard skin of the nearest creature. Instantly their hissing ceases and they fix you with frightened stares. They cradle their leathery egg protectively in their webbed hands and slink down the stairs. You run to the top of the staircase and peer down into the gloom, but you can see nothing in the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern or a Torch and Tinderbox,<a id="sect171-1" idref="sect171-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it into the hole, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you decide to unsheathe a hand weapon and descend the stairs into darkness, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your weapon to avoid touching their evil-smelling bodies, you flick open the satchels slung over each of their shoulders. They are filled with all manner of Items looted from the village. You tip the contents out and discover:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for 6 Meals (Meals)</li>
- <li>Dagger (Weapons)</li>
- <li>Sword (Weapons)</li>
- <li>Silver Candlestick</li>
- <li>Lantern</li>
- <li>Brass Whistle</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Silver Goblet</li>
- <li>Silk Jacket</li>
- <li>Torch</li>
- <li>Crystal Decanter</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Unless otherwise indicated, the articles are Backpack Items. If you wish to keep any, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You remount your horse and follow Banedon as he heads off along the track that leads out of the village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you reach the bottom rung you are horrified to discover that the ladder stops short of solid ground: there is nothing but darkness below. You peer into the gloom but it is impossible to see how much further you have to descend. To your left you can see the faint outline of a ledge, but it is over twenty yards away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you have a Rope, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to drop something in order to gauge the depth, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to swing on the ladder and leap for the ledge, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldiers in the crowded hall look at you with awe and grudging respect. They pride themselves on their fighting ability, but none can match your swift and skilful disposal of the Deldenians. You step over the bodies and head towards the door, but, before you reach it, it slams open and a squad of guards from the South Gatehouse rushes in, summoned by the owner of the hall. They are all armed with crossbows, and they aim them at your chest. Resistance would be suicidal, and reluctantly you both raise your hands in surrender.</p>
- <p>The guards escort you back to the South Gatehouse tower. Banedon, because he is a magician, is taken to another part of the city wall for interrogation, while you are imprisoned high in the tower itself.</p>
- <p>Place an <quote>x</quote> beside each of the Special Items, Backpack Items and Weapons that are listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> to indicate that they are no longer in your possession. Only if you rediscover them at a later stage of your adventure may you erase each <quote>x</quote> and reuse them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect175-1-foot" idref="sect175-1">
- <p>Although this book gives no explicit restriction, it may be appropriate to consider the Zaaryx a wasteland in regard to fulfilling Meal requirements with Hunting and Huntmastery.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The climb to the arch at the top of the stairs is a slow and laborious one. Each step is as tall as a young tree, and the smooth, black stone offers few handholds. Several hours slip by before you reach the summit. There you stare down through the great archway at a stupendous sight.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Two massive statues of dragons flank the wide avenue<br />that leads from the archway to the city</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="594" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="594" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The streets and buildings of an ancient civilization lie before you, disappearing into the gloom of a titanic chasm of immeasurable size. Ziggurats and towers, their carved walls cracked and crumbling, lean at impossible angles, having sunk into the soil over the centuries. This is Zaaryx, the legendary metropolis that was once home to a race fathered by Nyxator&emdash;the greatest of all dragons. It is the only city to have survived the Age of Chaos that followed the demise of their race.</p>
- <p>A wide avenue leads from the archway to enter the city at a place flanked by two massive statues of dragons sitting on their haunches with their stone-fanged mouths agape. You stop to rest here and you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<a id="sect175-1" idref="sect175-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>You are about to set off into the city when you catch a glimpse of a shadowy figure moving furtively among the ruins of an edifice to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you have yet to complete this Lore-circle, you can investigate the shadow; <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">Or you can ignore it and continue along the avenue; <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Follow me!</quote> shouts Banedon, as he jumps his horse over the bodies of your slain attackers and gallops along the highway. He has survived the fight unscathed: by casting a magical net of sticky strands over a dozen rangers and their horses, he ensnared them all before they had a chance to level their lances at him.</p>
- <p>The sergeant and the remnants of his company pursue you as you speed north along the highway. But you soon outdistance them, and the sergeant orders off the chase, returning to the standing stones to free his netted men.</p>
- <p>Only when he and his men are beyond the horizon do you rein in your horses and slacken the pace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect177-1-foot" idref="sect177-1">
- <p>You do not find any weapon-like Special Items. Keep them marked with an <quote>x</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> since you may still be able to retrieve them.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scoop the strongroom key from the guard's belt and hurry towards the gates while Sogh retrieves his silver. Once you are both safely inside the strongroom, you lock the heavy doors and begin to search for your equipment. The room is stacked to the ceiling with all manner of goods and articles that have been confiscated by the gatehouse guards. Contraband, stolen goods and illegal cargoes impounded at the South Gate are stored here before being either destroyed or sold at auction. It is rumoured that the gatehouse guards cream off the best booty for themselves, and it is no secret that the post of gatehouse commander is the most coveted of all in the Anarian army.</p>
- <p>You discover all your Special and Backpack Items, but your Weapons are nowhere to be seen. However, there are several fine weapons lying on the shelves and you may rearm yourself with any of the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>6 Arrows</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- </ul>
- <p>Sogh is busily sifting through a mound of silver and antique jewellery, pocketing the choicest items and tossing aside the rest. He comes across a diamond and obsidian signet ring, and beams with delight. <quote>Ah! I knew it was here,</quote> he says, and slips it inside his codpiece for safekeeping.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, we've both got what we want; we'd best leave now before they discover the dead guards.</quote> He beckons you to help him drag a table away from the wall and then proceeds to tap at the brickwork with the hilt of a dagger. Two minutes later he is becoming agitated, having tapped every brick over six square feet of wall without any result. You cast your eye over the surface and your Kai sense draws your attention to a brick in a different part of the wall. You tap it casually with the toe of your boot and a panel slides aside to reveal the secret passage.</p>
- <p><quote>How did you&ellips;</quote> gasps Sogh, his eyes open wide with amazement.</p>
- <p><quote>A lucky guess,</quote> you reply, modestly, and enter the dark tunnel. Sogh follows and the panel slides closed just as a patrol of angry guards force open the strongroom door.</p>
- <p>Erase the <quote>x</quote> marks from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> to restore your rediscovered <a id="sect177-1" idref="sect177-1-foot" class="footnote">Special Items</a> and Backpack Items, and remember to alter your Weapon list accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>For one gifted in the ways of magic, you have a surprisingly poor sense of direction,</quote> says the commander in a mocking voice. He signals to his men on the parapet and you raise your hands in surrender; to resist would be suicidal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the West Gate and climb the body-strewn stairs to the battlements. On this side of the city the mist is less dense and you can see regiments of Drakkarim warriors advancing in lines towards the great moat. Behind them are trundled huge machines of war designed to fire canisters of boiling oil and red-hot liquid metal over the city wall. Cavalry wait in reserve while siege towers and catapults are hauled forward by lumbering ghorkas and muscular leathery zull.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="162" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At the foot of the wall, a unit of Salonese engineers are repairing the damage done to a bridge they constructed during the night. They have only one more plank to lay to make the bridge safe and enable a squad of Drakkarim assault-troopers to reach the West Gate. You see a soldier creep to the edge of the bridge and raise a large screen to protect the engineer who is laying this final plank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you do not have a bow or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a bony fist she raps loudly on the door of the hut. Inside, a croaky voice bids you enter and she tugs at your sleeve impatiently, urging you into the foul-smelling hovel. Seated on a threadbare carpet, and surrounded by what appear to be heaps of chicken bones, is a scrawny old man dressed completely in feathers. He has a long, pointed nose and a stubbly grey beard which grows to just below his beady bloodshot eyes. The crone kneels and whispers in his ear before bowing and leaving the hut. As the door swings shut the shaman scoops up a handful of bones, closes his eyes, and, with a sound like a flock of startled gulls, casts them in the air. After a full minute of chanting and waving his hands, the old man opens his eyes and looks down on the bones which lie scattered on the beaten earth floor.</p>
- <p><quote>You have many enemies, Northlander,</quote> he says, his hook-like fingers tracing patterns around the bones, <quote>powerful enemies. They plot to prevent you from walking your chosen path, for that path will lead to their destruction. There is one who will tell you that he is a friend. You must not trust this one. There is treachery in his heart.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Seated on the threadbare carpet is a scrawny<br />old man dressed completely in feathers</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The old man closes his eyes and lowers his head, as if he has fallen suddenly into a deep trance. You try to awaken him but he does not respond, and eventually you decide to take your leave. You feel unsettled by the encounter, but when you return to Banedon you make light of the incident and suggest that you continue without further delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52"><link-text>Turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your pulse quickens as you look into the black abyss beyond the portal. You can make out no walls or roof, and the hollow wind that whistles in the darkness makes it easy to imagine that you are staring into a limitless void. There is a rope ladder fixed to the threshold of the portal: it descends into darkness below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you wish to gather up the ladder in order to judge how deep the abyss is, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to descend the rope ladder, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The net wraps itself around your legs and brings you down at the top of the stairs. You cannot prevent yourself from rolling forwards and, with a cry of fear and frustration, you tumble headlong down the hard stone staircase to land in a crumpled heap at the bottom: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Three soldiers are waiting for you. They clutch wooden staves in their sweaty palms with which they hope to beat you senseless. <quote>Get 'im!</quote> they shout, and run forward to strike before you can disentangle yourself from the net.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Senate Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Because of your fall and your current entangled condition, you cannot make use of a Weapon or Special Item during the first four rounds of combat. As you are unarmed, remember to reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notch an arrow and let fly at a rider closing in on your left. The shaft pierces one of its eyes and lifts the loathsome creature out of its wolf-saddle, spinning him into the path of the following Doomwolves. His body brings down two of the ravening beasts and their riders, who are slammed into the ground as their mounts crash together in a tangled heap.</p>
- <p>Your bow skill has bought you precious seconds in which to escape from the settlement. Banedon gallops past, his loose robe streaming out behind him like a pair of blue wings. You dig in your heels and urge your horse after him, with the shrill clangour of Giak war-cries ringing ever louder in your ears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bow in hand, you crouch at the gap in the door and launch two arrows in as many seconds. The shafts strike home with deadly accuracy, piercing an eye of each reptilian and killing them instantly. As they fall, their crystal tube shatters and explodes with a tremendous, ear-splitting crack. The fragments burn fiercely and you are forced to cover your mouth with your cloak as you run, head down, through the billowing smoke and flames to a clearer section of the corridor beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the corridor a flight of steps leads down to an open prison door. Cautiously you peer around the doorway into the chamber beyond, where you see a man chained to the wall. He is lean and sinewy, with jet-black hair and a moustache, which he has braided into his long sideburns in a style known as <quote>Pirazin plaits</quote>, fashionable among Slovian men. He appears to be either asleep or unconscious.</p>
- <p>You enter the chamber, moving swiftly and silently towards a staircase on the opposite side, and immediately he springs to life. <quote>Hold fast, Northlander,</quote> he hisses. <quote>They'll catch y' for sure if you take the stairs. Let me loose and I'll show you a way to slip out o' here quicker than mist through a net.</quote></p>
- <p>Quickly you consider his offer, but choose to leave him, deciding instead to trust your Kai instincts to aid your escape. You shake your head and turn to leave, but the man is shrewd; he says something he knows will change your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mouldering bones are encased in the tattered remains of a blue leather tunic and breeches. Both thigh bones are shattered and the skull and spine are cracked in several places, suggesting that this unfortunate man fell to his death from a great height. You can find no weapons, and the backpack and haversack that are strapped to his body are both unbuckled and empty, as if they have been looted. You check the corpse's right hand, but there are no rings on any of the bony fingers&emdash;this is not Maghana's son.</p>
- <p>When you are satisfied that you have overlooked nothing, you leave the body and investigate the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51"><link-text>Turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually the track narrows, then disappears altogether, and you find yourselves riding through a sea of tall green wheat. You press on for over an hour until you see a faint glimmer of light stretching across the horizon in the far distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this Magnakai rank, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power of the ring greatly amplifies your psychic energies as you attack the Zakhan. They disrupt his control over the Orb of Death and enable you to penetrate his shield with an ordinary weapon.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="124" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="124" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Zakhan Kimah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the hood of your cloak up to keep your face in shadow and stride boldly towards the two soldiers. <quote>I am in need of some information,</quote> you say, disguising your Sommlending accent as best you can, <quote>and I'm sure you brave fellows can help me.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Maybe we can,</quote> replies one soldier, stroking his beard and narrowing his eyes shrewdly, <quote>if the price be right.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to bribe these soldiers with Lune, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to bribe them with Gold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to leave the barracks and walk back along Eastwall Lane, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you prefer to continue on your way east, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is very little of use or value in this hut. You discover the following, all of which are Backpack Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Lantern</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Comb</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may keep any of these Items but remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. Banedon reminds you that it is rapidly getting darker, so you leave the hut and press on without further delay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123"><link-text>Turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect191-1-foot" idref="sect191-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to dodge aside but the mist whirls around you like a snake. An intense heat burns your body&emdash;it is as if you are surrounded by coils of white-hot metal&emdash;and your mind is filled with terrifying images of the supernatural: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Confident that it has ensnared another victim, the grey ghoul stalks forward. You fight to clear your mind of the swirling visions as the creature raises its hand and prepares to strike you down with a pitted iron spike.</p>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect191-1" idref="sect191-1-foot" class="footnote">Psi-ghoul</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the power of its psychic attack, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hold him tight, lads,</quote> instructs the officer, as his men grab your cloak and tunic. <quote>They want this Northlander at the South Gate. Seems he's been making a nuisance of himself.</quote></p>
- <p>They march you back along Eastwall Lane. Minutes later you reach the tower, and the officer delivers you into the clutches of the angry gatehouse guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the cavalry draws nearer; the faces of the soldiers are stern and unsmiling beneath the peaks of their winged helmets. Their leader, a sergeant, makes a signal and the horsemen change formation, drawing into a circle that quickly closes around you. <quote>State your business here!</quote> bellows the sergeant. <quote>Why do you ride to Tahou?</quote></p>
- <p>At first you are suspicious of their identity, but your basic Kai sixth sense tells you that these men are genuine Anarian rangers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to tell the sergeant the real reason you are riding to Tahou, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you have an Invitation and wish to show it to him, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you demand what right they have to hinder your passage to the capital, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light flares into life, illuminating the rubbish-strewn passage. A moving shadow in the distance betrays the pickpocket, as he dives into a side entrance of a large, three-storey building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to follow him into the building, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you decide to let him escape, you walk back to Brooker Court and continue on your way; <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw out your hands to claw at the rope ladder but your fingers are numb with cold. You cannot close your grip, and with a scream of anguish, you slip and fall backwards into the black abyss. Your scream grows until you impact into a cold, wet avenue of Zaaryx, 200 feet below.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards look at you with distrust in their eyes. They order you to dismount, and one of them hurries off to fetch the gatehouse commander. Minutes later the officer strides into the enclosure, his face wearing the frown of a man who has gone without sleep for many nights. Wearily he casts his eye over you both. <quote>So you want to fight for Tahou, do you?</quote> he says, sarcastically. <quote>How do I know you're not spies or saboteurs?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect197-1-foot" idref="sect197-1">
- <p>Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage is dark and very narrow, and you are forced to turn sideways in order to move along it. To make matters worse, the floor is littered with large rocks that graze and bruise your legs, making it difficult for you to stay on your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern, or a Torch and Tinderbox,<a id="sect197-1" idref="sect197-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you possess none of these items, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shaft pierces the engineer's throat, sending him toppling into the moat. In panic, the soldier drops his screen and runs back across the bridge towards the Drakkarim. They view this as an act of cowardice and kill him out of hand as a warning to the Salonese.</p>
- <p>Your bow skill has bought the defenders at the West Gate precious time to patch their battered defences. You are about to help them when a new threat looms to the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Discipline of Divination screams a silent warning that the village harbours hostile enemies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to investigate who these enemies might be, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you choose to heed your Kai sense and ride back into the wheat fields, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow her along passages and sloping tunnels, down long flights of stairs and through magnificent chambers that no human eye has ever seen before. The alien splendour of this ancient city leaves you in awe of the race that once dwelt in these halls. For interminable hours you follow in her wake until you arrive at a circular chamber of rust-red stone. The floor descends in a series of wide steps that encircle the room, and in the middle of the tiers is a shallow pit with a stone dais at its centre.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>At your approach, the dais glows with a crimson<br />light and pulses like a living heart</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="675" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="675" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At your approach, the dais glows with a crimson light that pulses like a living heart. Shimmering waves of silvery radiance sweep the steps and a chorus of voices, soft and sirenic, echo through the upper reaches of the chamber. You surrender yourself to instinct and step upon the dais, cupping your hands before you and raising your face to the roof. A golden light pours out of the darkness, soaking you in its brilliance and filling your senses with a glowing warmth. A gasp of awe arises from the tiers, now crowded with reptilians. They are the Crocaryx, the guardians of this city, the stewards of the Lorestone, who were placed here by the great God Kai. With joy and sorrow they have gathered to witness the fulfilment of their purpose, for your coming marks the end of their stewardship and the beginning of their demise.</p>
- <p>High above you a shadow is taking form at the core of the golden light. It is dark and leathery and shaped like an egg. Slowly it breaks and peels open to reveal a sparkling crystal sphere: it is the Lorestone of Tahou, the object of your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately you sense that the drunken soldier is not what he seems. He is a skilful pickpocket and he has just stolen one of your Special Items.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. It the number you have chosen is 0&endash;4, the item stolen is the first one on your list of Special Items. If the number is 5&endash;9, he has stolen the second Item on the list. If you possess only one Special Item, or no Special Items at all, then the pickpocket has stolen the first Item on your list of Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to chase after him and try to retrieve your stolen Item, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose to ignore the robbery and continue walking towards the square at the end of Brooker Court, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the grille of the cell door you can see a great iron key, hanging from a hook on the wall a little way down the corridor. You focus your mastery of Nexus on this key, and it rises slowly from the hook and glides towards your open hand. With a smile of triumph you grab the key, unlock the door, and step into the empty corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mist coils around you like a python embracing its prey. Your body is engulfed by heat so intense that it seems as though you are surrounded by rings of white-hot metal, but your mind is filled with a stabbing icy pain. You lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before your Psi-screen repels this psychic assault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect204-1-foot" idref="sect204-1">
- <p>To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections</a> list and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer to the Khmar's riddle, the footnotes for that section will tell you so.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Neither you nor the plains farmer are able to answer Khmar's riddle correctly, and you all forfeit your stakes (remember to delete what you wagered from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). But Khmar is a very sporting fellow. He offers you the chance to win back what you have just lost by answering his next riddle correctly.</p>
- <p><quote>This is Juno, my youngest boy,</quote> he says, patting the head of his second son. <quote>I am four times as old as him now. Twenty years from now, I will be only twice as old as him. How old am I, and how old is my son today?</quote></p>
- <choice>If you think you have both the answers to this riddle, add the two ages together and <a id="sect204-1" idref="sect204-1-foot" class="footnote">turn to the entry number that is the same as the total.</a></choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you cannot answer the riddle, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>There will be troops posted here at the Cauldron, ready day and night to pull you up when you are ready to leave Zaaryx,</quote> says Senator Zilaris, as he helps you into the cradle that will lower you into the shaft. <quote>Just give the rope three stout tugs&emdash;that is the signal.</quote></p>
- <p>Senator Chil appears to tell you everything is prepared for your descent. <quote>Good luck, Lone Wolf. I hope I will be here to welcome your safe and successful return, and that you will come to know me as a friend.</quote></p>
- <p>The cradle rises and you are swung into position above the entrance. You stare down into the black abyss, your pulse quickening as a damp and icy wind whistles out of the shaft, carrying with it the cloying smell of decay.</p>
- <p>With a wave, you signal your readiness and you are slowly lowered into the void.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226"><link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A minute passes before the lurker shows himself. He is a hunchbacked old man dressed in rags, with thin grey hair and a wrinkled face that bears the impressions of a lifetime's poverty. Two eyes, clouded with cataracts, stare up at you from the dark and dusty hole in the ground. <quote>Take what you will but please spare my worthless life,</quote> he pleads.</p>
- <p><quote>You have nothing to fear from me, old man,</quote> you reply. <quote>Here, let me help you out of this hole.</quote> And so saying, you take hold of his scrawny arms and lift him with ease, for he weighs no more than a young child. He hobbles over to the fireplace and stirs the broth with a wooden spoon, which he keeps on a string around his neck. He offers you some of this smelly gruel but you refuse politely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you have a Meal in your Backpack and wish to offer it to the old man, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you do not have a Meal, or do not wish to give it to him, you leave the hut and continue, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden noise in the chamber behind distracts your attention from the door. From the depths of an archway comes the sound of something huge creeping towards you on clawed feet. Instinctively you reach for a weapon and brace your back against the door, but you shudder with horror when you see the creature that is approaching. A monstrous head protrudes from the darkness, as broad as the body of a horse, with jagged fangs that curve down over its lower jaw. Interlocking plates of horny scale cover its long neck and body, and coarse, feathery hairs fan out from the scarlet wattle below its throat. Its bulbous green eyes fix you with a hungry stare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a casual wave of his hand, Chiban conjures up a quill and sheet of parchment. He begins to dictate the request for an audience, and the quill moves of its own accord, as if guided by an invisible hand. The request, once completed, is then dispatched by messenger to the Anarium, the House of the Senate, where members of the governing council have gathered for an emergency assembly called for by the President himself. Within the hour the messenger returns with a scroll bearing the presidential seal.</p>
- <p><quote>He has agreed to hear your plea, Lone Wolf,</quote> says the aged magician, his ice-blue eyes scanning the official reply. Banedon congratulates you and you feel your spirits rise, but Chiban seems a little disappointed. <quote>I was expecting a private audience,</quote> he says, <quote>but in view of the current situation, I suppose it is the best we can hope for. You must appear before the Senate this evening and state your reasons for wishing to enter the Tahou Cauldron. They will consider your request and vote accordingly. If they grant their approval, only you may enter. If they forbid you entry, you may not appeal against it. Their decision will be final.</quote></p>
- <p>He hands you the scroll and arranges for his personal coach to take you to the Anarium. As you climb into the passenger seat, he and Banedon wish you good luck. <quote>I shall pray for your success,</quote> says Chiban. <quote>And I shall pray that we are still alive to see your triumphant return, old friend,</quote> says Banedon, as you exchange a farewell wave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon rides alongside the crowded wagon and talks with Lortha as the procession continues on its way to Navasari. After a few minutes' conversation she hands him a scrap of parchment, and they bid each other farewell.</p>
- <p><quote>They are the last of the evacuees,</quote> he says, as you continue your ride north. <quote>They expect the enemy to reach Tahou in two days' time. They've already seen Giak scouts and early this morning a squadron of Kraan were sighted high in the western skies. She advises us to steer clear of a village called Sidara. It's rumoured to have already fallen to the enemy. She also gave me this.&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon hands you the scrap of parchment. It contains a few lines of Anarian script, an address and a signature. <quote>It's an invitation to stay at Chiban and Lortha's house in Tahou. It may be useful when we reach the city gate.</quote></p>
- <p>Mark this Invitation on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item that you keep in your pocket. If you already carry the maximum number of Special Items, you must discard one in favour of this new item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">To continue your journey north, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A surge of scarlet energy leaps from the orb and rips into your arm, hurling you backwards on to the ground (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The Zakhan laughs mockingly as he raises the orb once more, this time to finish you for good. You are aware of the Zakhan's troops fighting a desperate battle at the West Gate, and you know you must defeat him or else the city will be lost.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you possess a Psychic Ring, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you possess the Dagger of Vashna, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cloud of arrows engulfs you and pain explodes throughout your body. You are mortally wounded, pierced by a dozen shafts, and although you fight to hang on to life, it is a fight you cannot win.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cellar is full of rough-faced villains, laughing and bragging about their illegal exploits as they swill their sour ale. You cross the crowded floor and sit at the end of a table, as far away from the door as possible. A thin, wiry fellow with curly black hair approaches you with a tankard of foaming ale in one hand. You have taken his seat and he is determined to get it back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you have ever escaped from the South Gate tower, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If not, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you see the Tahou Hills. They appear like a mirage on the horizon, shimmering beyond the haze that rises from the sun-baked plain. Without stopping for food or rest, you hurry across the hot grasslands and follow the highway as it ascends towards the mouth of a pass. A stone watchtower guards the entrance to the hills and a cluster of whitewashed huts lie huddled around its base.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the Magnakai rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the ring from your pocket and focus your psychic abilities into its glowing yellow stone. The ring acts as an amplifier: it boosts your psychic energies and enables you to direct them against the monster that is now threatening to swallow you whole.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="124" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="124" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Zadragon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">58</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The power of the Psychic Ring increases your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 8 points for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With deadly accuracy you hurl the dagger at the shouting guard. He tries to duck but he is too close and cannot avoid being hit.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with Dagger, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the space of a few fleeting seconds you have loaded your bow and aimed it at the giant snake's head. With an angry hiss it darts its ugly head out of view. Almost immediately there is a tremendous noise as the snake rises into the air, propelled by a pair of powerful feathered wings. Two vulture-like forelimbs, tipped with sharp, rending claws, scrabble at the air as it streaks towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with Bow, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If your total is now 0&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you step into the building, the pickpocket lunges at you. He is wielding a cruel stiletto blade, which he attempts to sink into your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pickpocket</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you wish to evade combat and run back along the alley to Brooker Court, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect218-1-foot" idref="sect218-1">
- <p>Although this book gives no explicit restriction, it may be appropriate to consider this subterranean area a wasteland in regard to fulfilling Meal requirements with Hunting and Huntmastery.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your spirits sink as you contemplate your fate, for the only way you know of escaping from this gigantic underground grotto has now been sealed off. However, you are not completely without hope, for your senses detect a powerful presence. It is a feeling you have known before when you have been close to discovering a Lorestone, but never has the sensation been as strong as it is here in this dark, subterranean world.</p>
- <p>As your eyes become accustomed to the half-light, you look across the lake to see tiers of grey stone rising out of the water. They are the steps of a gigantic staircase, which ascends to an arch of rock veined with glittering minerals. You skirt the edge of the lake and arrive at the foot of these steps to discover a cave-like hollow chiselled from the stone.</p>
- <p>You are exhausted, and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<a id="sect218-1" idref="sect218-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Rather than attempt to go on, you climb into the empty hollow and settle down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light illuminates the tunnel ahead, and within a few minutes you have found your way through to a hillside exit that overlooks a tiny village called Varta, perched on the edge of the Tahou flats.</p>
- <p>The flats comprise fields of cultivated crops that form a fertile market garden two miles wide. They are farmed right up to the banks of the great moat that encircles the capital. Varta is deserted; its male inhabitants now shelter within the city walls whilst the women and children have long since travelled south to the safety of Navasari. As you ride through the empty village and descend on to the flats, you catch your first awe-inspiring view of the ancient city itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry down the stone stairs that lead to the West Gate arch. The gate has been holed by an explosive crystal and red-cloaked Drakkarim assault-troopers pour through the ragged gap. These evil warriors fight like fanatics, seemingly oblivious to any wounds they sustain. The gate guards are soon cut down and you are faced by three of these fearsome warriors. You must fight all three as one enemy.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Red-cloaked Drakkarim assault-troopers pour<br />through the ragged gap in the gate</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="612" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="612" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Assault-troopers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to their state of battle-frenzy, these enemies are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon once told you that Chiban lives in the city's North District. At the end of the alley you find a signpost that points the way north. You wait in the shadows until the coast is clear then hurry across the street into an avenue called Brooker Court.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cursing the delay, you steer your horse about and return along the narrow path of flattened corn that marks your route back to the highway. You have covered less than fifty yards when your horse rears up and shies away, refusing to go any further in this direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you do not possess this skill, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon casts a spell that fills the hall with a flash of light so intense that it stuns everyone for several seconds. In the confusion, you are able to run out of the eating house and escape along the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can see nothing in the pitch dark. As you descend, you run one hand along the smooth stone wall to keep your balance, and hold your weapon before you in the other, continually testing for obstructions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or of Divination, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the sole of your boot you push the bed across the trapdoor. The bedclothes are crawling with vermin and you are careful to avoid touching these tattered rags. Whoever is hiding below must know that the exit has now been blocked off, but still they remain silent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you now wish to search the hut, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you decide to leave the hut and continue, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For the first few minutes of your descent you can see the red stone walls encircling the cradle. Then a jagged rim of rock marks the end of the shaft, and you are plunged into total blackness. You can make out no walls or floor and the shaft itself is now just a small circle of grey in the darkness above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pace the cell like a caged lion, cursing your predicament and trying to think of a way to escape. After an hour you resign yourself to your fate and settle down on your haunches to sleep.</p>
- <p>The prod of a spear haft wakes you from your slumber. <quote>On your feet,</quote> snarls the brutish sergeant-at-arms, standing over you with his spear poised to strike again. Two soldiers grab you roughly by the collar and shove you through the open cell door into the arms of an escort that has come to take you before the Chief Magistrate. Your hands and feet are shackled with chains and you are bundled into a covered wagon waiting beside the South Gate. It moves off at breakneck speed, and by the time it reaches its destination, you are covered in bruises: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142"><link-text>Turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed with which you slew your attacker strikes fear into the grisly hearts of the advancing ghouls. Slowly they slink away, their grey forms merging with the shadows at the far side of the lake. You are about to hurry away from the hollow, in case they should return with more of their kind, when you notice an odd-looking token lying next to the dead ghoul.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you wish to examine the token, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you choose to ignore it and leave this place, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giak enters the shadows just as you are ready to fire your bow. Although you can no longer see your target, you are able to sense approximately where he is.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the road ahead for somewhere soft to land, but the surface is strewn with sharp boulders.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The descent is slow and arduous and fraught with hazards. The wind becomes stronger and colder the further you go, numbing your fingers and sapping your strength. A sudden gust swings you into an outcrop of black rock, invisible in the gloom, and the impact forces you to lose your grip.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery or Nexus, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If your total is now 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If it is 2&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly the lurker steps into the shaft of light that streams through the open hatch. A hunchbacked old man dressed in rags, he has thin, grey hair and a wrinkled face that bears the marks of a lifetime's poverty. Two eyes, clouded with cataracts, stare fearfully at you. You take hold of his scrawny arms and haul him out of the cellar with ease, for he weighs no more than a young child. You ask his name, but he does not reply. Instead he hobbles around the hut, running his withered hands lightly over his meagre belongings and mumbling incoherently under his breath. He stops at the door and inclines his head towards you.</p>
- <p><quote>Are you and your friend outside lost?</quote> he asks in a thin and squeaky voice. <quote>I know a short cut to Tahou. Would you like me to show you?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to take up the old man's offer of help, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you choose to decline his help, you leave the hut and continue; <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The circular walls shake violently and you slip and tumble headlong down the shaft, landing with a jolt on a slab of flat, spongy rock at the edge of a huge, subterranean lake. There is a tremendous roar as the ceiling of the tunnel collapses and tons of rock crash down to seal the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street leads to a far more grandiose part of the city. Government offices surround a broad plaza that narrows to a thoroughfare flanked by clean little town houses, each with a blossoming garden. You are wondering how such a prosperous avenue came to be named Gallows Street when you happen upon the Magistrates' Court.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The beggars squabble noisily over who should have your donation, and you are jostled on all sides as the bickering develops into an ugly brawl. Banedon grabs your cloak and pulls you clear as they set about each other tooth and nail.</p>
- <p><quote>Generosity can sometimes be unwise in Anari,</quote> he says, as you remount your white horses and ride away from the village. <quote>And costly too,</quote> you reply, as you notice that your Backpack has been cut open. Unfortunately the beggars have stolen the Items you have placed third and fourth on your list of Backpack Items. Erase these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before continuing your journey to Tahou.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52"><link-text>Turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flatten yourself against the floor and the net passes harmlessly over your head. Before the guard can react, you are back on your feet and running headlong down the stairs.</p>
- <p>Three soldiers await you at the bottom of the staircase. They clutch wooden staves in their sweaty hands, ready to beat you senseless the moment you appear. <quote>Get 'im!</quote> they shout, and run forward, clumsy and flat-footed compared with your cat-like strides. Before they can land a blow, you leap among them, striking left and right too quickly for their eyes to follow. They scream and clutch at their wounds as you make your getaway unharmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By holding the mirror to the gap in the door you are able to see beyond it without exposing yourself. Your caution is well placed, for in the mirror you can see the reflection of two reptilians kneeling in the corridor beyond. Supported on their shoulders is a huge rod of crystal encircled with tubes and glowing metallic buttons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you have a bow and at least two arrows, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery charges you with a superhuman response to this deadly situation. Suddenly the spinning arrows are approaching with exaggerated slowness, and every detail becomes crystal clear as they spiral lazily towards your heart. You raise your sword and strike the leading shaft, hacking it clean in two. Your backstroke shears through the underside of the second arrow, splintering it to useless matchwood. The archers stare in disbelief, their mouths agape. The sergeant and his men hesitate, frozen in awe of what they have just witnessed. Seconds slip away before they come to their senses and draw their swords.</p>
- <p><quote>Take him!</quote> yells the sergeant, and together they surge towards you. You cannot evade this combat, and because the corridor is narrow you must fight the guards two at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Sergeant and Guard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guards 3 and 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guards 5 and 6</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Your display of Kai mastery has made a big impression on Sogh, who fights by your side: add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you win, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have only one chance to kill the Zakhan before he releases another deadly bolt of energy from the Orb of Death.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with Dagger, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If your total is now 0&endash;4, the dagger misses its target; <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect350">If your total is 5 or more, it strikes the Zakhan in the heart; <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dust cloud grows bigger and the rumble of hoofbeats can now be heard drifting towards you across the open plain. Twenty lightly armoured riders approach, their lances bearing blue pennants embroidered with the arms of Tahou, their faces stern and unsmiling beneath the peaks of their winged helmets. Their sergeant makes a signal and the horsemen change formation, drawing up into a circle that quickly closes around you. <quote>State your business here!</quote> bellows the sergeant. <quote>Why do you ride to Tahou?</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="219" height="262" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>At first you are suspicious of their identities, but your basic Kai Sixth Sense confirms that these men are genuine Anarian rangers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you wish to tell the sergeant your real reason for riding to Tahou, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess an Invitation and wish to show it to him, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you demand to know what right they have to hinder your passage to the capital, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect241-1-foot" idref="sect241-1">
- <p>To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections</a> list and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct combination or one of the partial combinations, the footnotes for those sections will tell you so.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the corridor to a curved flight of alabaster stairs and descend them to a massive chamber. The floor is constructed of steely-blue metal flecked with silver, and a hundred darkened archways line the walls. Directly ahead stand two gigantic doors of sheeted platinum, engraved with patterns breathtaking in their intricacy. The chamber is deserted, but as you cross the floor and approach the doors, you are acutely aware that any one of the arches could be hiding a legion of reptilians.</p>
- <p>In the centre of the door there is a lock that consists of four hexagonal buttons, arranged in the shape of a pyramid, with one button at the top and three buttons in a line below it. Every time you touch a button, a glowing number appears on its surface. Your basic Kai sense informs you that this is a combination lock; if you press each button several times until the correct numbers show on all four buttons the lock will release and the doors will open.</p>
- <choice>If you know the correct number to press for the top button, and the correct three-figure number for the bottom three buttons, add both numbers together and turn to the entry that has the same number as the total.</choice>
- <choice>If you know only one of the two correct numbers that you need to open the lock, <a id="sect241-1" idref="sect241-1-foot" class="footnote">turn to the entry of that number.</a></choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you do not know the correct numbers to press for either the top button, or the bottom three buttons, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Leaving your horses and the South Gate tower behind, you enter a wide avenue flanked by workshops and houses, all built of red stone or rock sheathed in red plaster. The buildings themselves are small and densely packed, yet each one, no matter how humble, has a spire or tower that soars into the sky.</p>
- <p>The large sleepy-eyed heads of stone dragons gaze down from the balconies of minarets, crowned either with bulbous, onion-shaped domes of copper, or with platforms housing engines of war recently installed.</p>
- <p>Banedon points to an eating house and suggests that you stop there for some refreshment. Chiban's house is more than an hour's walk from here, and you are ravenous after your long ride.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to enter the eating house, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you decide to ignore your rumbling stomach and continue your walk to Chiban's house, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you lies a huge chamber. Its walls are hung with silk and fine tapestries and its sunken floor is piled high with glittering treasures. As you enter, a perfumed breeze ruffles your hair and the sound of song-birds fills your ears.</p>
- <p>Sogh leads you past a bubbling pool of crystal-clear water into an antechamber. Here, lying on a couch of vivid scarlet, rests the ruler of this sanctuary, dressed in an extravagant costume of many colours. His large, squarish face is framed by a hood trimmed with a strange purple fur. He stirs from his slumber and opens his coal-black eyes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description><quote>Kad-dul da-nar Li-ook!</quote> he breathes, and a vivid<br />green flame engulfs the sparkling jewel</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="669" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="669" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Sogh! Who is this man?</quote> he shouts, angrily. <quote>Why have you brought him here?</quote> The thief tries to offer an explanation but it only serves to anger him even more. <quote>Sogh, you snivelling fool!</quote> he bellows. <quote>You know it is forbidden to bring outsiders into the secret enclaves of the guild. I should have you flogged for your stupidity. For all we know, this Northlander could be a spy, or even&ellips;</quote> he pauses, staring up at you fearfully, <quote>an assassin.</quote> He snatches a gem from his pocket and holds it in the air. <quote>Kad-dul da-nar Li-ook!</quote> he breathes, and a vivid green flame engulfs the sparkling jewel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Doomwolves howl and their Giak riders cackle with glee as they hurl themselves upon you. You lash out at a grey-skinned rider, cleaving his grinning head in two, and swinging your arm back just in time to dispatch a Doomwolf that is leaping towards your face. All around you the snarl and screech and press of bodies threaten to overwhelm your senses, but you are a Kai Master and in the heat of battle your nerve is ice cool. Grimly you fight with a speed and skill that leaves a dozen dead in as many blows. But you do not fight alone. Banedon rears into view, flashes of flame spurting from his fingers with a crack, like a whip, that echoes above the din of combat. Then another wave of wolf-riders appears. They charge into the fray, driving a wedge between you and your companion. A black sword cuts the air less than an inch from your scalp, but you deal its wielder a fatal blow before he can strike a second time. He falls, yet his Doomwolf mount leaps up and clings to your horse, its claws buried in the saddle leather, its foaming jaws snapping at your throat. You must dispatch this beast quickly before it drags you both to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Doomwolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win and the fight lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This tree-lined avenue leads to a large public garden called the Rainbow Park, so named because of the vast number of rare and colourful flowers that grow there. The park itself has been turned into an army encampment for those Anarians who have answered the President's desperate plea for defenders. Their banners, lit by the glow of a hundred camp fires, hang above the tents that cover the lush lawns. A couple of soldiers, armed with two-handed broadswords, which they rest across their shoulders, stand guard at the park gates.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you wish to ask them if they know where Chiban the Magician lives, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to continue along Rainbow Lane without stopping, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With half your equipment discarded you are able to claw your way up through the black water. Finally you reach the surface, coughing and gasping for air. At first the incredible coldness stunned your senses,but now it revives them, spurring you to swim towards the distant shore that gleams faintly in the dim half-light.</p>
- <p>Aching and numb to the bone, you heave yourself out of the lake and collapse on the flat, spongy rocks that line the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the twitching body of the dead sky-snake, your weapon held ready in case it should suddenly rear up and strike again. With grim fascination you inspect its venomous fangs and shiny green coils; you shudder when you think of how close you came to death.</p>
- <p>Already a brace of plains vultures are circling overhead, waiting to feast on the creature's carcass. You mount your horse and follow Banedon as he retraces the route back to the highway. You are now hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">To continue, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Crouching in the shadows beneath the staircase, you look to the end of a torchlit corridor, where a soldier stands guard at a pair of solid iron gates. <quote>Your weapons and equipment are on the other side of that gate, my friend,</quote> whispers Sogh. <quote>It's the tower strongroom, although it's not as strong as they'd like to think. They caught me inside once, but they never found out how I managed to get in. There's a secret passage that leads through the wall to the stables outside. If we can get past that guard and into the strongroom, you can get your equipment back, I can get what I came here for, and we can both get out through the stables.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But what about my friend?</quote> you reply, worried about Banedon's safety.</p>
- <p><quote>He's not here. I overheard the guards say they were taking him to the Eastgate Barracks. I'd worry about his neck after you've saved your own if I were you.</quote></p>
- <p>You stare at the guard, a plan slowly forming in your mind. <quote>Give me that purse of silver,</quote> you say, holding out your hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Now, wait a minute, I&ellips;</quote> replies Sogh, in a fluster.</p>
- <p><quote>Don't argue,</quote> you retort. <quote>You'll get it back. I just need the right sort of bait to hook us this fish.</quote></p>
- <p>Reluctantly he hands over the purse. Silently you leave the shadows and creep along the corridor, taking care to avoid the pools of flickering torchlight. When you are within ten feet of the guard, you begin to lay a trail of silver Lune all the way back to the staircase. The guard notices the glint of silver and cannot resist the temptation; he leaves his post to collect the coins. You wait tensely, sword in hand, as he approaches slowly. He is within a few feet of your hiding place when suddenly he sees you and begins to shout for help.</p>
- <p>You must act quickly or his cries will summon every guard in the tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and have reached the rank of Principalin, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to attack him with your sword, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to throw your dagger at him, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Further along the battlements a group of determined Giak soldiers have climbed the wall, using a scaling ladder. Leading their attack is a large scaly Gourgaz, who wields a two-handed axe with devastating effect. It cuts a gruesome path through the Anarian defenders and launches itself at you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gourgaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk along the narrow, cobblestoned street, taking care to avoid passing too close to windows and doorways, where the glare of firelight is brightest. The city is in a sullen mood. With their women and children safe in the south, the soldiers and citizens busy themselves with preparations for the battle that is imminent. Heavy steps and the clank of weapons echo along the street as a troop of Slovian mercenaries march by, with scarlet- and black-striped shields on their arms, and polished halberds resting on their mailed shoulders. You follow as they march towards a building in the distance, where their officer orders them to halt and fall out. Most of the soldiers then enter the building, but two remain outside to talk and share a pipe of Lourden tobacco. A sign fixed to the building says:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="152" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="152" />
- </illustration>
- <signpost>EASTGATE BARRACKS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to question the mercenaries about Banedon, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to try to enter the barracks unnoticed, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you decide to continue walking along Eastwall Lane, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Deprived of your sight as you descend into the Stygian void, your Kai perception compensates by becoming more sensitive and more acute. An image forms in your mind of the events taking place around the Cauldron. You see the winch and the faces of the Senate guards, who are feeding the rope that supports your cradle. They are joined by another, who has come to help with their task. He takes his place at the lip of the shaft and grips the rope, but hidden in his hand is a razor-sharp blade! Your throat tightens with fear as you picture the gloating face of Senator Chil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53"><link-text>Turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like most southern Anarian peasants, these farm hands are simple folk. They have heard nothing of the war in the north, and know nothing about the Darklord armies that are poised to assault their capital. All they are able to tell you is that a great many wagons carrying <quote>Takas</quote>, or rich city folk, have travelled the road to Navasari in the last ten days.</p>
- <p>They would be happy to share their humble meal of corn soup with you, but the smell of their dung fire has destroyed your appetite and you refuse their offer politely. Banedon, who has been talking with the owner of the house, returns to his horse and nods at the signpost. <quote>It's pointing the wrong way. A few days ago one of the Takas' wagons ran into it and nobody has bothered to fix it yet.</quote></p>
- <p>With a wave, the farm hands bid you farewell as you urge your horses back on to the highway. You are now hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318"><link-text>Turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect253-1-foot" idref="sect253-1">
- <p>Golds Crowns may not be paid in lieu of Lune in this instance.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mercenaries demand <a id="sect253-1" idref="sect253-1-foot" class="footnote">ten Lune</a> in advance before they even hear your question.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you have this sum, and wish to pay it, do so and <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you do not have ten Lune, or do not wish to pay them this amount, you either try to enter the barracks unseen; <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">Or, leave the barracks and walk back along Eastgate Lane; <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect254-1-foot" idref="sect254-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double these undead creatures' <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghouls clamber up the rocky base of the steps and hurl themselves into the hollow with fanatical zeal. They are all unarmed, but their claw-tipped fingers are as sharp and as deadly as knives.</p>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect254-1" idref="sect254-1-foot" class="footnote">Ghoul Pack</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The commander narrows his eyes. <quote>Bah!</quote> he snorts. <quote>Let 'em enter. We need all the men we can get. Their blood's as good as any that'll be spilled in the defence of this city.</quote></p>
- <p>You cast a glance at Banedon and smile as he wipes a bead of sweat from his brow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I seek the Lorestone of Tahou,</quote> you reply, boldly. <quote>I am the Kai Lord, Lone Wolf, and I quest for the wisdom of Nyxator, that I may vanquish the spawn of his enemies and save my people from destruction.</quote></p>
- <p>Her harsh gaze softens as your proud words fill the chamber with resonant echoes. You sense a sadness within her, but she replies with words of joy that form in your mind. <thought>Your quest will be fulfilled, as it was by your sire many centuries ago. We have waited long for your coming, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, and we will fulfil our duty to He who gave us life.</thought></p>
- <p>She opens the great platinum doors and beckons you to follow her.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The highway twists like a restless snake as you gallop headlong through the darkening Tahou Hills. The unholy baying of the Doomwolves draws steadily closer as you fight desperately to keep your tired horses ahead of the ravening pack. Three miles from the watchtower settlement, the fastest pack members draw level with you as you race along a dry watercourse. Their eyes and fangs glint evilly in the moonlight as they cut across your path, forcing you to stand and fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Relentlessly the enemy pour their fire upon the north and west city walls, until the black sky above Tahou takes on a vivid scarlet glow. The defenders look to their weapons uneasily and pray that the gods are with them, at least until dawn. And when the first rays of dawn light show above the eastern hills, no mists enshroud the armies of Darklord Gnaag&emdash;they are massed in all their glory, awaiting the order to attack. You cast your eye across this sea of doom and mark the many regiments of evil that are ranged against the walls of Tahou.</p>
- <p>The armoured legions of Vassagonia are the first to advance, moving in ordered columns towards the West Gate. At their head walks a figure sheathed in gold around whom a cold blue fire glows intensely. He strides within range of the city archers and they send a cloud of arrows to greet him, but these shatter and crackle when they encounter his impregnable glowing shield. He crosses the siege bridge and halts before the West Gate. In his hand is an orb of black metal. He holds it before him and mouths an incantation. Instantly a bolt of scarlet flame lances from the orb, destroying the great doors with a thunderous boom. Proudly he strides into the city and the defenders melt before him. One summons enough courage to attack him with a spear. There is a crackling flash and in an instant the soldier is transformed into a pile of glowing ash.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A Defender attacks him, driving his spear<br />through the cold blue flames</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="636" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="636" />
- </illustration>
- <p>He advances unchecked and undaunted by all attacks, for they cannot penetrate his magical shield. Only when he comes face to face with you does he stop.</p>
- <p><quote>I have come for you, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, a cruel smile on his lips. You gaze into the ice-cold eyes of Zakhan Kimah, ruler of Vassagonia. As he raises his orb of black metal, you steel yourself for the battle that is about to commence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sogh looks at you sheepishly as you search the dead guards. <quote>I'm no fighter,</quote> he says, apologizing for his cowardly behaviour. <quote>I've no stomach for it.</quote> He grimaces at the sight of the bloodstained bodies but manages to overcome his squeamishness when he spies a gold ring and a full purse on one of them.</p>
- <p>Your search reveals four useful items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Swords</li>
- <li>1 Dagger</li>
- <li>1 Iron Key</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You let Sogh keep the ring and the purse, and hand him one of the swords, which he is reluctant to accept. The other three items you keep (mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>After hiding the bodies, you follow Sogh as he leads you through the chambers and corridors of the South Gatehouse tower. Twice you are almost discovered, but your Kai skills, and Sogh's thief-like agility, save you both from further confrontation until you reach the ground floor of the tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a split second you counter his attack with a savage swipe that shears his arm off at the elbow. Arm and dagger fall to the table and the soldier collapses screaming to the floor. His comrade kicks back his bench and steps away as he fumbles for his sword. With a drunken yell, he unsheathes the blade and leaps forward in a reckless attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drunken Mercenary</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you stay and win the combat, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You may drop either a coin (a Gold Crown or a Lune), a Special Item, a Backpack Item, or a Weapon. When you have decided which of your possessions you are willing to risk, erase it from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic Magnakai sense warns you of imminent danger if you take the track to the left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to investigate the danger, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you choose to heed your Magnakai sense and take the track to the right, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skin prickles when you see the old man mouth your name, for his words sound in your head as if he were standing next to you and whispering them in your ear. <quote>Come hither, Lone Wolf,</quote> he breathes. <quote>Your purpose here is known to me. I, Gwynian of Varetta, will aid your quest.</quote></p>
- <p>Your immediate reaction is to turn and flee, but your Kai senses reveal that this man speaks the truth; he can help you find the Lorestone of Tahou.</p>
- <p>Drawn by his command and your own curiosity, you climb the steps of the Magistrates' Court and follow him into his private chambers. There he explains how he has learned of your identity and purpose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76"><link-text>Turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the pitch blackness you fail to see a false section of the stair which conceals a shallow hole. As you tread on the false step, it collapses, and your foot sinks into the hole to become ensnared among a mass of hooks. Their barbed tips hold you trapped, for you dare not withdraw your foot quickly in case you rip your leg to shreds: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Including the broth, which smells awful, there is very little of use or value in the hut. You discover the following articles, all of which are Backpack Items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Comb</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Lantern</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may keep any or all of these Items, but remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. You about to leave when you notice a trapdoor set into the floor near the fireplace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you wish to open the trapdoor, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you choose to ignore it and continue your trek to Tahou, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your hood and wrap yourself in your Kai cloak to minimize the risk of being cut by broken glass. Leaping feet first, you escape through the window with only a few minor scratches (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), but the glass shatters with such a terrific crash that it alerts the soldiers on guard at the side door. They surround the carriage and arrest the driver, forcing you to abandon your hopes of escaping that way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant-at-arms orders his men to surround and disarm you both. Sogh immediately drops to his knee and begs for mercy; he blames you for everything, saying that you released him and forced him to accompany you against his will. <quote>Silence, weevil! You'll get your chance to tell your tale to the Chief Magistrate. Maybe he'll believe you&ellips; </quote> growls the sergeant before casting an angry glance at the dead soldier, <quote>and maybe he won't.</quote></p>
- <p>You are led back to your cell and four burly armed guards are placed outside the door with orders to shoot to kill if you should attempt another escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guyuk is a nervous and jittery sort of man. He is afflicted with all manner of tics and twitches and is given to worrying about anything and everything. Recently his condition has worsened, and in light of events in the north, it is not difficult to understand why.</p>
- <p><quote>Oh! What's to become of us? Where will it all end?</quote> he mutters, wringing his pudgy hands and casting his eyes to the rafters. <quote>Every day for the last two weeks wagons filled with women and children have been leaving Tahou for the south, yet the Senate tell us that nothing is wrong, that we should go about our business and not concern ourselves with city affairs. Well, I for one am not fooled. I tell you they're keeping us in the dark about what's really happening and I'm not going to wait around to suffer the consequences. I'm closing up and moving out at the end of the week, and if you two gentlemen would take some friendly advice, you'd be wise to do the same.</quote></p>
- <p>Someone in the tavern is calling for more lovka. Before you can question Guyuk further, he snatches up a bottle and scurries away to serve his thirsty customer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you now wish to order some food, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you decide to retire to your room, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you have finished your meal, you talk at length about your journey from Dessi and your quest for the Lorestone of Tahou. Chiban produces a map of the city, which he unfurls on the floor of his study, the only surface not cluttered with magical equipment. With his toe he points to the location of the Tahou Cauldron: it is in the Square of the Dragons in the West District of the city.</p>
- <p><quote>The Cauldron is a funnel-shaped hollow with a circular shaft at its base. The shaft descends to the ruins of the ancient city of Zaaryx, 500 feet below the streets of Tahou. Legend tells us that the Lorestone was thrown into the Cauldron to prevent the Black Zakhan of Vassagonia from capturing it during the Great Khordaim War. The shaft was closed off and has remained sealed for the past 360 years.</quote> He looks up from the map and you notice that his smiling features are now sad and composed.</p>
- <p><quote>At dawn the armies of Darklord Gnaag will be at the gates of the city and the battle of Tahou will have begun. My duty is here, in the defence of my beloved city, otherwise I would willingly accompany you on our search. There is only one man who can help you now, for he is the only one that can grant you access to the shaft that descends to Zaaryx. He is President Toltuda of Anari. Come, I will arrange an audience with him immediately.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect208"><link-text>Turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rise and run along the battlements, escaping death by inches as the stone ball shears away the parapet and walkway where you were sheltering. One hundred yards further on, a tower looms into view; it is one of many that reinforce the city wall. You can hardly believe your eyes when you notice that your companion, Banedon, is standing behind the crenellations. You wave and shout to him but the noise of battle drowns your call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gratefully he accepts your offer and adds the food to the broth bubbling on the grate. He tells you that he is a hermit and has lived here, at the edge of the gorge, for most of his life. He is nearly blind but he knows every inch of these hills as well as he knows his own hut, and he offers to show you and Banedon a short cut to Tahou.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to accept his help, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you choose not to accept his help, you leave the hut and continue, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have a strong premonition that death will befall you if you stay on board the wagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to heed your Kai sense and leap from the speeding wagon, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you decide to ignore your premonition and stay on board, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to enter the square at the end of Brooker Court when you suddenly realize that you have been robbed. The drunken soldier was not drunk at all: he was a skilful pickpocket.</p>
- <p>Erase the second Special Item on the list on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you only have one Special Item, you must delete this. If you have no Special Items at all, delete the first Backpack Item noted on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to run back to the tavern alley and chase after the pickpocket, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose to let him go and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three hours you ride without pause or rest along the Tahou highway. On either side the whispering grasses of the Anari plain stir lazily in the thin breeze of morning. Villages are few, but wherever there are trees you are sure to find a group of huts nearby.</p>
- <p>The highway descends along a ridge towards a copse of stunted trees, where a circle of simple dwellings have been built around a well. At your approach, a bell is sounded and several peasants appear, each holding a basket of assorted wares, which they urge you to buy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you wish to examine these wares, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to continue through the village without stopping, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Maghana leads you to another room, one of several that lead from his sumptuous chamber, and approaches a dais standing near the door. He passes his hand over a crystal set into its surface and at once a section of the wall moves inwards, exposing darkness beyond. An icy damp wind fills the room, carrying with it a cloying smell of decay. Elsewhere in the chamber are tables laden with equipment, placed here, no doubt, for those who dare venture beyond the windswept portal.</p>
- <p><quote>Take what you need,</quote> says Maghana, his voice barely audible above the howl of the wind, <quote>then go.</quote> He ushers Sogh from the chamber and locks the door behind him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you wish to examine the equipment, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you choose to ignore the equipment and investigate the portal instead, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The impact of your killing blow knocks the guard headlong backwards on to the hard stone floor. Unfortunately, the noise of combat has alerted his comrades and, as you stoop to grab the key from the dead man's belt, you hear the sound of their hobnailed boots as they storm down the stairs. The leading pair are armed with bows and, as they reach the bottom of the staircase, they kneel and take aim.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender or die!</quote> shouts their sergeant-at-arms, brandishing an axe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to raise your hands in surrender, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to defy his order, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dragon-like eyes of the monster blaze with hatred and a deep growl rumbles from its fanged maw as it makes ready to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zadragon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">58</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have not gone far when, to your horror, you find yourself standing in front of the South Gate tower. The guards recognize you immediately and raise the alarm. You turn to run but a troop of cavalry surges out of the gatehouse and you are quickly surrounded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to stand and fight these soldiers, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you choose to surrender to them, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Seems we have a pair of travelling clowns come to entertain us with fairy stories,</quote> sneers the sergeant, while his men laugh disdainfully at your explanation. He draws his curved cavalry sword and points the blade menacingly towards your chest; his men cease their sniggering. <quote>You're both under arrest on suspicion of spying. Drop your weapons&emdash;at once!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to obey the sergeant's order, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to resist arrest, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes a little over three seconds for the object to hit solid ground, and you judge the drop to be at least thirty feet&emdash;too far to jump safely. Rather than risk your legs, and possibly your life, on such a jump, you decide to try to reach the ledge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense an aura of psychic energy burning fiercely at the core of the moving shadow. The creature possesses a supernatural force of great destructive power. To approach it could be fatal, yet to ignore it could prove equally disastrous.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to raise your Psi-screen and approach the shadow, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you choose to avoid it by hurrying away, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect282-1-foot" idref="sect282-1">
- <p>Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The roof of the cave and the tunnel beyond is high enough for you to ride through it on horseback. But the interior is pitch black, and if you are not to stray off course, you will need some form of light to illuminate the way ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern, or a Torch and Tinderbox,<a id="sect282-1" idref="sect282-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you do not possess any of these Items, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The metal is cream coloured and wafer thin, and the design embossed on the surface appears to be an intricate mathematical equation. You apply your mind to solving the numerical riddle and are close to an answer when suddenly the metal bursts into flames. You fling the flaring token away instantly, but your hand is still badly burned by the flash&emdash;lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You curse the device but console yourself with having solved the riddle: the answer is 320. (Make a note of this number in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; it may prove useful at a later stage of your adventure.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue along the street as it follows the curve of the city wall. To your left you notice a tavern with its door and windows boarded up. Just beyond it a street branches off to the left. A rusty iron sign reads:</p>
- <signpost>GALLOWS STREET</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to enter Gallows Street, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you wish to continue along Eastwall Lane, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giaks fix you with steely stares, their yellow eyes open wide with shock as they fumble for their weapons. However, before they are able to unsheathe their swords and scramble to their feet, you leap forward and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giak Scouts</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">15</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the surprise of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> losses you sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The enemy begin bombarding the wall with huge stone balls fired from catapults that they have wheeled to the edge of the great moat. The first of these missiles drop from the sky without warning to tear vast holes in the parapets and walkways. Immediately you take cover but are horrified to see one of these huge missiles hurtling directly towards you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The enemy begin bombarding the wall with<br />huge stone balls fired from catapults</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="636" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="636" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dagger sinks deeply into his chest, knocking him to the ground. He screams at the sudden pain and his cry alerts a patrol of guards on the floor above. You leave your hiding place and run towards the dying soldier, your hand outstretched to snatch the strongroom key from his belt. But before you reach the man you hear the hobnailed boots of the patrol storming down the stairs behind. The leading pair are armed with bows, and as they reach the bottom of the staircase, they kneel and take aim. <quote>Surrender or die!</quote> shouts their sergeant-at-arms.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to raise your hands in surrender, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you choose to defy his order, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lane skirts the edge of Rainbow Park as it heads towards the guildhalls and emporiums of the city's West District. As you approach the Guildhall of Armourers, a patrol of guards, led by an officer wearing the crest of the Tahou garrison, suddenly appears from a side street and comes marching towards you. As soon as the officer catches sight of you, he orders his men to halt and load their bows. <quote>Stop!</quote> he commands. <quote>Stop at once or we'll open fire!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you wish to surrender to this patrol, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to ignore the officer's command and turn and run, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The icy water clogs your nose and throat and numbs you to the bone. Desperately you fight to control the panic gnawing at your insides as your air-starved lungs fill your chest with an agonizing pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you have a Vial of Blue Pills, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you do not possess this Item, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leader of the approaching cavalry, a sergeant, signals to his men to change formation. They leave the highway and draw up in a circle, closing around your hiding place. The sergeant unsheathes his curved cavalry sword, holds it at arm's length, and edges his mount nearer so that the blade hovers menacingly just before your chest. <quote>You're both under arrest,</quote> he bellows, <quote>on suspicion of spying! Drop your weapons at once!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to obey the sergeant's order, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you choose to resist arrest, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deluge engulfs you so quickly that it is impossible to avoid inhaling the fine grit. As you do so, a terrible pain stabs at your chest: the dust contains the spores of a deadly fungus that is now poisoning your lungs. Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, and have reached the Magnakai rank of Tutelary or higher, you must lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The men are plainly displeased that you have interrupted their conversation. One of them, a sallow-faced knave with dark eyes and curly black hair, snatches a jug from the table and takes a long swig. He slams it down and turns to his friend.</p>
- <p><quote>Did you know,</quote> he says, red wine squirting through his rotted teeth, <quote>my brother Ghane was killed in Ragadorn last year? He was stabbed in the back by a lousy Northlander.</quote> Slowly he turns his head and stares coldly into your eyes. <quote>I hate Northlanders,</quote> he snarls. <quote>They're all cowardly, backstabbing scum!</quote> You notice his hand leave the jug and slip below the table.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to tell him you are sorry to hear what happened to his brother, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you wish to prepare for combat in case he attacks you, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you decide it would be wise to leave the eating house, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wolf-riders give chase, but their pursuit is half-hearted and you have covered less than a mile when you hear the Giaks call off their hunt. They console themselves by hurling threats and vile curses at your backs as you disappear swiftly into the dusk.</p>
- <p>The highway emerges from the hills at a village called Varta, situated on the edge of the Tahou flats. The flats consist of fields of cultivated crops forming a fertile market garden two miles wide which is farmed right up to the banks of the great moat that encircles the capital. Varta is deserted: its male inhabitants now shelter within the city walls, whilst the women and children have travelled south to the safety of Navasari. As you leave the empty town and descend on to the flats, you catch your first awe-inspiring glimpse of the ancient city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shake your head in disbelief when you see who is sitting in the Chief Magistrate's chair. It is Gwynian, the Sage of Varetta, the man who foretold the dangers of the Chasm of Doom and helped you find the Lorestone of Varetta.</p>
- <p><quote>Our stars unite, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, the trace of a smile wrinkling his kindly face. <quote>Destiny has decreed that we should meet again.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grip the sun-sword in both hands and strike out at the bolt as it surges towards your chest. There is a terrific jolt and a splash of white sparks as the sword deflects the bolt, sending it screeching back along the corridor. It explodes among the reptilians with an ear-splitting crack, destroying them and their weapon and scattering their burning remains all over the walls and floor. You cover your face with your cloak and run, head down, through the billowing smoke and flames to a clearer section of the corridor beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a tremendous noise fills your ears as a huge snake rises above the crops ahead, propelled into the air by a pair of powerful feathered wings. Two vulture-like forelimbs, tipped with sharp rending claws, scrabble the air as it dives towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive, roll twice, and bounce to your feet, suffering nothing more serious than a scratched shoulder and a bruised knee: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">To enter the tower, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually, as the feeling returns to your frozen limbs and your heart ceases to hammer in your chest, you feel bitterness and resentment welling up inside. You lift your face and give vent to an angry shout, cursing Senator Chil for his act of callous treachery that so nearly sealed your doom. Your voice travels through the dark towards a tiny speck that is the shaft of the Cauldron, 500 feet above, but none hear your cry. The Senate is convinced that you have perished in the fall and have ordered the plug to be lowered back into position. Helplessly you stare into the void and watch, with fear and frustration, as the tiny speck flickers and then disappears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the old hermit back into the gorge and along the dry watercourse. He leads you to a cave, its entrance partially hidden by a rockfall. <quote>Enter and follow the tunnel through the hillside and you will soon arrive at a place close to the capital.</quote> Before you can thank him, he turns and hobbles away, eager to return to the warmth of his hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great flagstoned precinct at the entrance to the Anarium is packed with hundreds of people. Senate officials, soldiers and citizens crowd the steps that give access to the grand foyer and outer chambers of the hall. You notice that a side entrance is being used exclusively by army scouts who arrive with dispatches and leave with orders for the lookouts hidden in the surrounding hills. You take a calculated gamble and order the carriage driver to draw up at the side entrance. This bold move pays off; upon seeing your presidential scroll not only do the guards allow you into the Anarium, but you are escorted to the Appellant's Gallery inside the assembly hall itself.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>President Toltuda occupies a seat in the centre of the<br />hall and presides over a heated discussion</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <p>From your seat in the gallery you stare down at an oval hall, ringed by twelve arches beneath which the senators of Anari sit upon their throne-like chairs of lacquered oak. President Toltuda occupies a seat in the centre of the hall and presides over a heated discussion that is raging back and forth. Having heard all sides of the argument he calls for a vote, and the issue is decided by a show of hands.</p>
- <p><quote>We now come to a quite extraordinary matter, which has been raised by one of our most eminent citizens,</quote> says President Toltuda, introducing your appeal to the Senate. He turns to the gallery and calls out, <quote>Sommlending Lord, Lone Wolf, please make yourself known to the assembly.</quote></p>
- <p>You rise from your seat and bow to the senators. <quote>Please present your request to us, Lone Wolf,</quote> says the President, and a hush descends on the hall as you explain the purpose of your journey to Tahou. When you have finished, the President calls upon the senators to speak.</p>
- <p><quote>I say we should help the Sommlending,</quote> pipes the shrill voice of Senator Zilaris. <quote>If he finds the Lorestone, its power could turn the tide and save Tahou from the clutches of Darklord Gnaag.</quote> A murmur of agreement stirs in the hall.</p>
- <p><quote>And I say we should refuse to open the Cauldron,</quote> booms the powerful voice of Senator Chil. <quote>I say that if it were not for his presence in our city, we would be spared the attention of the Darklords. He is the object of their anger and spite. I say we should give him to them, and in doing so we will save our city, our country, our people and ourselves!</quote> A surge of support echoes from the arches, and your skin prickles at the thought of what could happen. President Toltuda calls for a vote to decide whether the Senate should allow you to enter the Cauldron, or use you to bargain for peace with the Darklords.</p>
- <p>Tensely you await the result. The votes are cast and counted and the Senate is split evenly: six votes for you and six votes against. The decision now rests with the President himself. He must cast the deciding vote.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If the number is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect301-1-foot" idref="sect301-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a powerful denizen of Zaaryx. There is no time to evade its attack and you must fight it to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect301-1" idref="sect301-1-foot" class="footnote">Psi-ghoul</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Never mind, stranger; you are not the only one who does not know the answer,</quote> says Khmar, motioning towards the plains farmers who are frowning and scratching their heads. He and his sons gather up their belongings and bid you goodnight. The farmers soon follow suit, leaving you and Banedon seated alone at the end of the table.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to talk to Guyuk the tavern owner, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to order a meal, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you decide to call it a day and retire to your room, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With their leader slain, the Giaks suddenly lose their nerve and fall back to their ladder. You leap forward and help them on their way with a flurry of blows that leaves six dead at your feet. Several leap from the battlements into the moat rather than stand and face your deadly counter-attack. Within minutes the wall is cleared of the enemy and a squad of Slovian mercenaries arrives to plug the gap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Magnakai rank of Principalin, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A tingle runs down your spine as you recognize the Chief Magistrate. It is Gwynian, the Sage of Varetta, the man who foretold the dangers of the Chasm of Doom and helped you find the Lorestone of Varetta. <quote>Come hither, Lone Wolf,</quote> he beckons. His words sound in your head as if he were standing beside you, whispering them in your ear. <quote>Destiny has decreed that we should meet again.</quote></p>
- <p>Drawn by his words and your own curiosity, you climb the steps of the Magistrates' Court and follow him to his private chambers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76"><link-text>Turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man smiles smugly as you recount everything about yourself, your quest for the Lorestone, and your ordeal at the Senate House. When finally you reach the end of your account, he gives vent to a long, sardonic laugh. <quote>I, Maghana, the Guildmaster of Thieves, in all the years I have dwelt beneath the velvet fortress, I have dispatched many men to the Tahou Cauldron to seek out ancient treasures, though few have gone willingly, and fewer still have returned alive. Know you this, Sommlending: the Cauldron is but one way to enter the main shaft to Zaaryx. There are other routes, other shafts, and all of them are known to me. I will show you one such shaft, but you must do something in return. Is it agreed?</quote></p>
- <p>Cautiously you ask his terms. <quote>My son, Aiebek, entered the shaft three moons ago, drawn by the stories of dragon gold. He has not returned. All I ask is that if you find his body, you bring me the ring he wears upon his right hand.</quote> Without hesitation you agree to these terms, for they seem most reasonable. He smiles, but this time his eyes glow with a strange intensity, as if he were a man on the brink of madness. <quote>Do not fail me,</quote> he says, softly, holding aloft the sparkling mind-gem. <quote>I shall know if you lie.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dead Doomwolf drops heavily to the ground and your horse rears up on its hind legs, churning the air with its forehooves, which strike like steel hammers amid the remaining wolf-riders. More than one ends its days with your horse's hoofprint stamped upon its shattered skull. A gap appears and you see Banedon gallop past, his loose robe streaming out behind him like a pair of blue wings. You dig in your heels and urge your brave horse after him, fleeing the battleground as yet more of the wolf-riders loom into view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you are bathed in a white light that shines upon you from holes in the stone ceiling, and at once you see the bottom of a staircase twenty yards ahead. In the corridor beyond, a door swings open to reveal two reptilians, supporting on their shoulders a huge rod of crystal, encircled with tubes and with glowing metallic buttons. Terror grips your heart as you watch the rod become charged with a bolt of power that is aimed at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Your actions betray your guilt,</quote> growls the mercenary leader. Contemptuously he hurls aside the trembling soldiers and draws his sword. <quote>Get 'em, lads!</quote> he cries, and leaps to the attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Deldenian Mercenaries</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you wish to evade after one round of combat, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect309-1-foot" idref="sect309-1">
- <p>To clarify, Sogh joins in the combat if you defeat the first two Tower Guards.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the ground to avoid the deadly shafts but one pierces your left arm and knocks you back several feet. You fall awkwardly, cracking your head on the hard stone floor, and opening a jagged gash above your eye: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Blinking away the blood, which is streaming down your forehead, you grit your teeth and stagger to your feet. The sergeant yells, <quote>Take him!</quote> and all six of the soldiers unsheathe their weapons and run at you. You cannot evade this combat, and because the corridor is narrow, you must fight the guards two at a time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guards 1 and 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guards 3 and 4</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Tower Guard and Sergeant</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p><a id="sect309-1" idref="sect309-1-foot" class="footnote">If you win the first round of combat,</a> Sogh will fight by your side and you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the subsequent combats.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you win the combats, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steel yourself to renew your aim as the flying serpent makes its attack. At the last possible moment you release the arrow, sending it burrowing into the creature's pear-shaped skull. It gives vent to a chilling sound and somersaults backwards in the air, its wings thrashing wildly as it crashes to the ground amid a spray of blood and broken feathers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the end of the alley where it joins a wide, cobblestoned avenue lit by street lanterns. A large, three-storey building stands on the corner; its windows are boarded and its doors are all locked, except for one at the side which is suspiciously ajar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you wish to investigate this building, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to ignore it and enter the street ahead, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you decide to call off the chase, walk back to Brooker Court and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A troop of guards enters the enclosure at the double.They strip you of all your Weapons, Special Items and Backpack Items, and then escort you to a cell located high in the South Gatehouse tower. Banedon is led away to another part of the city wall, to be interrogated by the gatehouse commander.</p>
- <p>Place an <quote>x</quote> beside each of the Special Items, Backpack Items and Weapons that you have listed on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> to indicate that they are no longer in your possession. Only if you rediscover them at a later stage of your adventure may you erase each <quote>x</quote> and reuse them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect313-1-foot" idref="sect313-1">
- <p>Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures possess some psychic skills that afford them a limited sixth sense. Their leader, a female, who is taller and much lighter in colour than the others, suddenly detects your presence. The sight of you frightens the creatures and they slink quickly down the stairs, cradling their egg protectively in their webbed hands. You run forward in time to see them disappear into the dark stairwell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern or a Torch and Tinderbox,<a id="sect313-1" idref="sect313-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it down the stairs, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you choose to unsheathe a hand weapon and descend the stairs into darkness, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your suspicions are aroused as you ride towards the watchtower. No flag flutters from its battlements and no guards appear to challenge your approach. You pass along a roadway littered with clothes and belongings, and the settlement looks deserted; it is as if the inhabitants have left in a great hurry. You are about to spur your horse to a canter when your Kai instincts warn you that danger lies ahead.</p>
- <p>Like demons from a nightmare, a host of snarling Giak wolf-riders bursts into view, streaming out from their shadowy hiding places behind the empty huts. They thunder towards you on every side, shrieking and thrusting their spears at the darkening sky.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice>If you wish to try to escape this ambush by galloping along the pass, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Find somewhere else to sit, stranger: that place is mine,</quote> he demands, grasping the hilt of his dagger with his free hand. You sense movement outside in the street and you glance nervously at the cellar door. <quote>Get up,</quote> growls the man impatiently, drawing his dagger slowly from its sheath. <quote>If you dare cross Sogh of Suentina, you'll not live long enough to regret it!</quote></p>
- <p>At that instant the door bursts open and in rush six heavily armed Senate House guards. Thinking that the ale cellar is being raided, something of a routine event here at the Purple Purse, the shady patrons drop their drinks and flee towards the open door in an attempt to escape arrest. Sogh, the thief who threatened you, heads towards a shadowy arch. You run after him and grab him by the arm.</p>
- <p><quote>Get me out of here,</quote> you plead, <quote>you can name your price.</quote> The wily thief smiles at the thought of making some easy money and holds out his hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Give me your money pouch and I'll save your skin.</quote> Grudgingly you hand over your gold and follow the thief into the archway. Delete any Gold Crowns or Lune you have recorded in the Belt Pouch section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I know where your friend is,</quote> he says, a note of desperation creeping into his voice, <quote>and I know where they've stowed your equipment. Let me loose and I'll show you.</quote> Grudgingly you undo the manacles that encircle his wrists.</p>
- <p><quote>A thousand thanks,</quote> he says, massaging his aching arms. <quote>My name is Sogh, master-thief of Suentina; at your service.</quote> He bows then motions you to follow him to a closed door behind you, next to the open one through which you entered the chamber. <quote>This is the second time I've been invited to stay at these lodgings,</quote> he whispers, working on the lock with a length of wire taken from the sleeve of his leather tunic. <quote>Because I decided to cut short my last visit they thought it best to keep me chained up this time.</quote></p>
- <p>There is a soft click and Sogh smiles proudly as he removes the wire from the lock. <quote>Ha! that was easy!</quote> he says, pushing open the door. Standing in the doorway are two burly guards, one clutching a bowl of food and the other holding a large iron key. <quote>Hmm&ellips; I thought that lock opened a bit too easily,</quote> mumbles Sogh, as he backs away from the advancing guards. They drop what they are carrying and draw their swords; they are determined to prevent your escape.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The advancing guards drop what they are carrying<br />and draw their swords</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Gatehouse Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight, as you are without a Weapon. You fight alone: Sogh is cowering behind you, using your body as a shield.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the swinging ladder a fraction too late, overshoot the ledge, and crash painfully against a wall of rough, jagged rock. As you rebound from the wall you land on the ledge and manage to cling to the boulders that litter its surface. You have suffered cuts to your face and chest, and your side is gashed and bruised&emdash;lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Five miles along the highway you reach another junction, where a cart track bears off to the west. A whitewashed stone marker at the side of the road says:</p>
- <signpost>SIDARA&emdash;5 MILES</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to follow the cart track to Sidara, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to stay on the highway to Tahou, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The soldiers demand one Crown each before even hearing your question. You pay them their price (remember to deduct this from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and ask if a blond-haired Northlander, dressed in blue robes, is being held under arrest here.</p>
- <p><quote>Wait here,</quote> says the bearded soldier, and enters the barracks. Suddenly his companion takes a swipe at you with the shaft of his halberd. Instinctively you duck, avoiding the full force of the blow, but it still catches your temple and leaves you stunned: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. <quote>There he is!</quote> says the bearded man, who has reappeared with a dozen of his comrades. <quote>Don't let 'im get away. They want him down at the South Gate. Seems he's been givin' them a bit o' trouble.</quote></p>
- <p>They surround you with a circle of spears and march you back to the South Gate tower. On the way you overhear the bearded mercenary say to another soldier, <quote>If only he hadn't tried to bribe us with Northland coinage, he'd have got clean away!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect320-1-foot" idref="sect320-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to a partially correct combination for the pyramid lock.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect320-1" idref="sect320-1-foot" class="footnote">The lock makes an odd clicking sound but both doors remain firmly shut.</a> Repeatedly you press the top button, running through all the numbers in the hope that it will open, but the doors do not move. You have entered part of the combination out of sequence and the lock has immobilized itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards inspect the Invitation, their expressions conveying their doubt that the signature it bears is genuine. They order you to dismount and one of them hurries off to summon the gatehouse commander. Fortunately, when he arrives he recognizes Lortha's mark and allows you to leave the enclosure, although he impounds both your horses. You protest and demand that they be returned, but to no avail.</p>
- <p><quote>Orders of the Senate,</quote> says the commander, offhandedly; <quote>an emergency decree. All horses belonging to the civil population must be delivered into the care of the garrison stables until the state of emergency is lifted.</quote></p>
- <p>Reluctantly you allow the guards to take your steeds and, as they are being led away, the commander hands you each a piece of vellum stamped with a date and a number. <quote>Receipts,</quote> he explains, his tone noticeably more friendly. You pocket your Receipt (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; owing to its size, you need not delete another Special Item should you already carry the maximum quota) and are about to walk away when he calls out, <quote>Report to the citadel first thing in the morning. You'll be allocated your battle positions for when the enemy attack.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect322-1-foot" idref="sect322-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double these undead creatures' <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner have you managed to prise the dead ghoul's hands from around your throat than his brethren reach the hollow. Your skin crawls at the touch of their slick, clammy flesh, but you struggle against your rising nausea and counter their attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy><a id="sect322-1" idref="sect322-1-foot" class="footnote">Ghoul Pack</a></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is a grim grey building, devoid of decoration or colour, its stark bare walls serving to remind the Tahouese of its sober purpose. It is a place where justice is meted out to wrongdoers and harsh punishments are imposed. All trials are conducted before a magistrate and his decision is final; there are no juries in Tahou. The Chief Magistrate presides over crimes that are serious enough to warrant the death penalty and, as you stare at the courthouse from the shadows of a doorway, your pulse quickens when you see his carriage draw up outside. An old man with long grey hair and a beard, he is wearing the purple and silver robes of the judiciary. He is accompanied by court guards and scribes, who help him to climb the steps to his private chambers located within the court building. When he reaches the top step he halts, turns, and points his finger at you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>An old man with long grey hair and beard halts at<br />the top step and points his finger at you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="677" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="677" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you have ever visited the city of Varetta or a hut on the Ruanon Pike in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you have never visited either of these places, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pressing your shoulder to the door you force it open and advance into the corridor beyond. But a shock awaits you: two reptilians kneel at the end of the passage, supporting on their scaly shoulders a huge rod of crystal encircled with tubes and glowing with metallic buttons. Terror grips your heart as you see the rod become charged with a bolt of power that is aimed at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon has just cleared the scabbard when there is a tremendous noise. The snake rises into the air, its huge tree-thick body propelled by powerful feathered wings. Two vulture-like forelimbs, tipped with sharp, rending claws, scrabble at the air as it leaves its hiding place and streaks towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect326-1-foot" idref="sect326-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to the correct combination for the pyramid lock.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect326-1" idref="sect326-1-foot" class="footnote">There is a soft whirr as the mechanism of the lock disengages,</a> but the door does not open. <thought>You will need this key,</thought>&emdash;the words sound in your head.</p>
- <p>You spin around to see the female reptilian, the leader of her kind. She moves towards you from an archway to your right, holding a rod of Korlinium in her webbed hand. The glint of several eyes in the darkness of the other arches warn that she is not alone. Telepathically, she calls to you. <thought>You are unlike the other man-things that have dared to enter Zaaryx. What is it that you seek?</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to tell her why you are here, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you choose to prepare to defend yourself in case you are attacked, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an outstretched hand you are able to detect the panel at the end of the passage. It is damp and crumbly and is covered with what feels like wet ropes. Suddenly one of these ropes coils around your arm, squeezing it in a vice-like grip. A wave of panic hits you as you realize you are being attacked by an angry Roctopus.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Roctopus</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Owing to the dark and narrow confines of the passage, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give a hefty kick and send a bench whirling against the man's legs. He falls heavily, slamming his head against the table and knocking himself out. The watching crowd find this greatly amusing, and while they are helpless with laughter, you escape through the door and along the street.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you cannot gauge how deep you are, you know that your strength is fading fast. If you are to avoid a watery death, you must shed some of your equipment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to discard half the number of Items in your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you decide to discard your Backpack completely, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow whistles into the dark alley and seconds later you hear it shatter harmlessly against a wall. As the rapid footfalls of the Giak fade into the distance you curse his escape, for you feel sure he recognized you. When he catches up with his unit and tells them what has happened here, they are likely to return with an entire army. Wisely you decide to leave; you remount your horse and follow the track that leads out of the village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The villagers swarm around you like hungry locusts, pleading with you to buy their humble goods. Most of the baskets contain food with a greasy, off-putting smell, and small earthenware flasks full of boza&emdash;a pale yellow wine with a bouquet like sour milk. Those villagers that are too poor to offer any goods at all simply cup their hands and beg for money. For every one Gold Grown you spend here you can purchase 2 Meals or one Flask of Boza.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to give the beggars some money, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you decide to remount your horse and continue, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you throw out your hands and manage to regain your grip of the rung. The impact has left you shaken and bruised (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but at least you are still alive. With renewed caution you steady yourself against the jagged outcrop before continuing your descent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The commander walks slowly around your horse, his fierce gaze never once leaving your direction. <quote>My dear friend, your companion appears to have lost his voice,</quote> he says to Banedon, with mock good manners. Then he signals to his men on the parapet and you hear the sound of a dozen crossbows scraping on stone as the soldiers steady their aim. Slowly you raise your hands in surrender; to resist would be suicidal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312"><link-text>Turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Brooker Court ends at a plaza known as Glassblower's Square. All the shops and houses in this area are owned by the Glassblower's Guild and, as a symbol of their wealth and influence in this part of the city, each of the slabs that pave the square is made entirely of coloured glass, several feet thick. Three roads lead from this plaza of glass: Lamp Street, Southgate, and Rainbow Lane.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to go north into Lamp Street, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you choose to head south into Southgate, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you decide to go west into Rainbow Lane, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stones rattle beneath your horse's hooves as you skirt the slopes of the Tahou Hills. Nearly an hour slips by before you happen upon the mouth of a gorge that offers a shorter route to the north. You enter and ride along a dried-out watercourse that winds for a mile between turrets of dull-coloured rock before rising steeply into the hills. At this point a small stone hut sits overhanging the gorge. Candlelight flickers at its window and a wisp of wood smoke rises from its chimney.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to stop and investigate the hut, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you choose to ignore it and press on, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the Sommerswerd and its golden light plays across the creature's glistening black scales. The dragon-like eyes blaze with anger and a deep growl rumbles from its cavernous mouth as it makes ready to attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The creature's dragon-like eyes blaze with anger and a<br />deep growl rumbles from its cavernous mouth</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="626" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="626" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Zadragon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">58</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This powerful creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai mastery you sense that Eastwall Lane leads directly to the Eastgate Barracks, the place where Sogh told you that Banedon is being held prisoner, Confident of your direction, you ignore the other street signs and head east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow knocks the ghoul out of the hollow, sending it tumbling into the lake. More of the corpse-like creatures can be seen creeping along the shore, and the sound of their snuffling whispers and curses makes your blood run cold. They move with unnatural speed, eager to feast on your flesh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to evade the ghouls by leaving the hollow and climbing the steps, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare to fight them, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The father and the farmers are taking it in turns to ask each other riddles. In Anari it is forbidden to gamble for money on games of chance, but the wily Anarians get around the law by devious means. They gamble on being able to answer riddles correctly, which demands exercising skill rather than chance, and they wager goods, and sometimes their services, in place of money. By the time you join them the father and his sons have amassed quite an assortment of valuable items, and the plains farmers are clearly anxious to win back some of their lost possessions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to join in and take an <quote>Anarian gamble</quote>, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you do not wish to take part in their game, but would rather engage the tavern owner in conversation, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you would prefer to order a meal, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wagon descends a steep hill that runs parallel to a section of the city wall under bombardment from enemy catapults. As you near the bottom of the hill, a huge stone ball drops from the sky and slams into the wagon, killing two horses, the captain, and you.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you inch your horse forward in the inky blackness until you glimpse a flickering light off to your left. You focus on this strange emanation until you can identify the source of the light. A swarm of glowing mine flies are hovering above a puddle of milky liquid, which is bubbling from a fissure in the tunnel floor. Your horse lifts its head, sniffs the cool air and gives voice to a harsh neigh of danger, for in the distant shadows something alien is stirring.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129"><link-text>Turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first floor is soon set ablaze as the wind whips the roof fire into a raging inferno. A soldier, his face and uniform completely blackened by soot, staggers down the stairs and collapses into your arms.</p>
- <p><quote>The captain's up there&ellips;</quote> he croaks, his throat burned from inhaling the scorching air. <quote>He went to save his brother just before the roof caught.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the Magnakai rank of Principalin, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you do not have this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant draws his curved cavalry sword and levels it menacingly at your chest. <quote>By the right of the Senate of Tahou, government of Anari,</quote> he snarls, in reply to your demand. <quote>And by the right of majority&emdash;twenty rangers against two outlanders. Both of you drop your weapons&emdash;at once!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to obey the sergeant's order, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to resist arrest, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Make sure he doesn't get away again,</quote> commands the officer, as his men surround you with a ring of spears. <quote>This is the one that escaped from the South Gate tower. I wouldn't like to be in his shoes when they get their hands on him!</quote></p>
- <p>The patrol march you along Rainbow Lane and then down a street called Southgate towards the South Gate tower. In less than fifteen minutes you find yourself delivered back into the clutches of the angry gatehouse guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai mastery, you command the deadly Roctopus to retreat into its burrow. Slowly it responds, drawing its slimy tentacles away from the panel as it wriggles deeper into the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Freed from the weight of your equipment, you are able to rise swiftly through the black water and reach the surface, coughing and gasping for air. At first the incredible coldness stunned your limbs, but now it revives your senses and spurs you towards the distant shore that gleams dimly in the faint half-light.</p>
- <p>Aching and numb to the bone, you heave yourself out of the lake and collapse on the flat, spongy rocks that line the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Look out, Lone Wolf,</quote> shouts Banedon, as you are rising from your seat. The soldier has drawn a curved dagger and he lunges forward to stab you in the heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess either of these skills, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your companion heeds your warning and shouts a reply, but you fail to hear what he says. A tremendous noise fills your ears as the giant snake rises into the air, lifted by a pair of powerful feathered wings. Two vulture-like legs, tipped with sharp, rending claws, scrabble the air as it dives towards your chest. A bolt of crackling energy surges past your head and streaks towards the onrushing snake. But the creature is quick to avoid Banedon's attack; it banks over to the left and the bolt arcs harmlessly into the distance. You barely have time to unsheathe a hand weapon as it closes for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect349-1-foot" idref="sect349-1">
- <p>Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The reptilians hear you and fix you with frightened stares. They wrap their webbed hands around the leathery egg protectively and slink quickly down the stairs. You run to the top of the staircase and peer down into the gloom, but you can see nothing in the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern, or a Torch and Tinderbox,<a id="sect349-1" idref="sect349-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you have a Fireseed and wish to throw it down the stairs, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you choose to unsheathe a hand weapon and descend the stairs into darkness, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect350-1-foot" idref="sect350-1">
- <p>According to the <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter: Summer Special 1987</cite>, if your weapons and weapon-like Special Items were confiscated by the South Gate Guard, they are now gratefully returned to you.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the very moment of his death, the shimmering web of energy that encases the Zakhan's body flares with a scarlet brilliance so intense that you are forced to avert your eyes for fear of it blinding you. The light surges and fades, leaving behind a mound of glowing fragments that crumble and dissolve noisily until all that remains of the Zakhan and the Orb of Death is a dark stain on the earth where they fell.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="251" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Spurred on by your triumph, the Anarian defenders rally themselves and counter-attack to secure the West Gate. The Vassagonians who gained entry are either killed or forced back into the moat as the gate is quickly retaken. A cheer resounds from the city wall, a cheer that becomes a chant carrying word of Kimah's demise to the enemy beyond the moat, and gradually the advancing legions slow to a halt as their hope of an easy victory dies. Officers ride to and fro, cursing and threatening their men with all manner of punishment, but their morale is severely shaken; the ranks of armoured warriors merely stand in shocked silence and refuse to advance. The sound of distant trumpets is heard and all eyes turn to the south to see wave upon wave of mounted warriors emerging from the hills around Varta. They pour from every valley and pass to fill the southern flats with regiments of horsemen resplendent in uniforms of blue, white and grey.</p>
- <p><quote>Our prayers have been answered,</quote> says Chiban, as he and Banedon rejoin you at the city wall. <quote>Behold, the allies of Anari have come to aid us in our darkest hour.</quote> He points to the advancing cavalry and you recognize, fluttering from their lances, the battle standards of three countries: Firalond, Lourden, and Kakush. Then the thunder of their horses' hooves fills the air and a wave of joy surges through you as you witness their first charge devastate the enemy's ranks, throwing them into chaos and confusion. A great battle ensues as the enemy slowly gather themselves to resist this unexpected assault. By noon two of their armies have been smashed and routed, and the third fights a desperate rearguard action as it covers the chaotic retreat westwards.</p>
- <p>At last the fighting around the city comes to an end, and the defenders give voice to their elation that their home has been saved from the hordes of Darklord Gnaag. Senator Zilaris proclaims you <a id="sect350-1" idref="sect350-1-foot" class="footnote"><quote>the saviour of Tahou</quote>,</a> and the victorious cheers of the citizens echo through the burning streets and across the flats that lie strewn with enemy dead. You gaze at this grim panorama and your blood runs cold. But it is not the sight of the carnage that grips you with fear, it is your growing awareness of a powerful evil that is taking shape above the West Gate. A billowing black cloud forms in the sky, and from out of this cloud there comes a harsh and terrible voice.</p>
- <p><quote>I will be avenged,</quote> it booms, its resonance shaking the battlements on which you stand. You steel yourself, half expecting a bolt of lightning to leap from the cloud and hurtle towards you, but no such attack materializes. Instead, the chilling voice continues in a mocking tone. <quote>Know this: you will pay for your defiance with your life. I, Gnaag of Mozgôar, have the three remaining Lorestones that you seek, and I shall destroy them when I destroy you, Kai Lord.</quote></p>
- <p>A gust of wind catches the cloud and it clears swiftly, but it leaves behind a numbing dread that fills your heart, for you sense that the words were no idle threat&emdash;the terrible voice of Darklord Gnaag spoke the truth.</p>
- <p>Your quest has succeeded, for the wisdom and strength of the Lorestone of Tahou is now a part of your body and spirit, and your defeat of Zakhan Kimah has turned the tide of war decisively against the Darklord armies. But the shocking news that the Darklords now possess the remaining Lorestones of Nyxator heralds the start of a new and deadly perilous episode of the Magnakai quest.</p>
- <p>If you have the courage of a true Kai Master, the challenge of recovering the last Lorestones from the clutches of your mortal enemies awaits you, beginning in Book 10 of the Lone Wolf series, entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.10tdot;">The Dungeons of Torgar</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Republic of Anari</title></meta>
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- <data>
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- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
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- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
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- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <illustration class="inline">
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- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
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- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
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- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
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- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
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- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
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- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Skyship</quote> with <quote>skyship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>freelands of Talestria</quote> with <quote>Freelands of Talestria</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the words from the language of Dessi (i.e. <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>you you</quote> with <quote>you</quote>, and all occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>. Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote>. Deleted <quote>on the last page of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Disciplines</a>) Deleted <quote>that appears on page 9</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>ie</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote> and <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote> and removed <quote>(see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Replaced all occurrences of <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>. Capitalized <quote>bonuses</quote> in the title <quote>Lore-circle Bonuses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>will be</quote> with <quote>are</quote> under the Primate's improved Animal Control; replaced <quote>will have</quote> with <quote>have</quote>, <quote>will not</quote> with <quote>is not</quote> and <quote>will be</quote> with <quote>is</quote> under the Primate's improved Curing; replaced <quote>will have</quote> with <quote>have</quote> and <quote>be able</quote> with <quote>are able</quote> under the Primate's improved Huntmastery.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>Xulun mountains</quote> with <quote>Xulun Mountains</quote>, <quote>giaks</quote> with <quote>Giaks</quote> and <quote>cavalry and</quote> with <quote>cavalry, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>noon but</quote> with <quote>noon, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) Replaced <quote>blow but</quote> with <quote>blow, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>yellow-flanged</quote> with <quote>yellow-fanged</quote> and <quote>mercy but</quote> with <quote>mercy, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>) Replaced <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote> and capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>wall and</quote> with <quote>wall, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>points but</quote> with <quote>points, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>accurate and</quote> with <quote>accurate, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>lane;</quote> with <quote>lane.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>whisper;</quote> with <quote>whisper,</quote> and <quote>sight, do</quote> with <quote>sight do</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>secure you</quote> with <quote>secure, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>narrow but</quote> with <quote>narrow, but</quote> and <quote>of milky</quote> with <quote>of a milky</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced <quote>life you</quote> with <quote>life, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>attack and</quote> with <quote>attack, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>despatched</quote> with <quote>dispatched</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>flames forcing</quote> with <quote>flames, forcing</quote>, <quote>creamy-coloured</quote> with <quote>cream-coloured</quote> and <quote>water and</quote> with <quote>water, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>years the</quote> with <quote>years, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>correct and</quote> with <quote>correct, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) Replaced <quote>stand and</quote> with <quote>stand, and</quote> and <quote>awful and</quote> with <quote>awful, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) Replaced <quote>wildly, then</quote> with <quote>wildly; then</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Replaced <quote>you but</quote> with <quote>you, but</quote> and <quote>silence he</quote> with <quote>silence, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect58">58</a>) Replaced <quote>supplies and</quote> with <quote>supplies, and</quote> and capitalised the list of Items.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Replaced <quote>stairs but</quote> with <quote>stairs, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>guards, incredulous</quote> with <quote>guards incredulously</quote> and <quote>explain but</quote> with <quote>explain, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>narrow but</quote> with <quote>narrow, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>) Replaced <quote>done I</quote> with <quote>done, I</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>above an</quote> with <quote>above, an</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>sight I'll</quote> with <quote>sight, I'll</quote> and <quote>that he</quote> with <quote>that, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>) Replaced <quote>later it</quote> with <quote>later, it</quote> and <quote>freedom but</quote> with <quote>freedom, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>city and</quote> with <quote>city, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Replaced <quote>attention they</quote> with <quote>attention, they</quote> and <quote>her and</quote> with <quote>her, and</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote>fatigue your</quote> with <quote>fatigue, your</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Replaced <quote>growl he</quote> with <quote>growl, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>throat but</quote> with <quote>throat, but</quote> and <quote>You wish</quote> with <quote>If you wish</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>ghorkas steak</quote> with <quote>ghorka steak</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>doomwolves</quote> with <quote>Doomwolves</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>) Replaced <quote>bow-strings</quote> with <quote>bowstrings</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) Replaced <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>direction,</quote> with <quote>direction.</quote> and <quote>desperation one</quote> with <quote>desperation, one</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>hollow a</quote> with <quote>hollow, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>thrown and</quote> with <quote>thrown, and</quote> and moved the last choice so that it is positioned first.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>city but</quote> with <quote>city, but</quote> and <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>) Replaced <quote>item (or items)</quote> with <quote>Item (or Items)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect119">119</a>) Replaced <quote>skin but</quote> with <quote>skin, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>) Replaced <quote>air but</quote> with <quote>air, but</quote> and <quote>punches but</quote> with <quote>punches, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai skill</quote> with <quote>Magnakai skill</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>doomwolves</quote> with <quote>Doomwolves</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>fire but</quote> with <quote>fire, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Replaced <quote>tunnel a</quote> with <quote>tunnel, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>Kraan and</quote> with <quote>Kraan, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>you and</quote> with <quote>you, and</quote> and <quote>bound you</quote> with <quote>bound, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>farewell and</quote> with <quote>farewell, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>skill you</quote> with <quote>skill, you</quote> and <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>) Replaced <quote><a idref="sect4">4</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect114">114</a></quote> and <quote><a idref="sect114">114</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect4">4</a></quote>. Without swapping these, the reader is given a penalty for having Nexus.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>wrong-doers</quote> with <quote>wrongdoers</quote>, <quote>magistrate and</quote> with <quote>magistrate, and</quote> and <quote>struggle but</quote> with <quote>struggle, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>silently pillar by pillar until</quote> with <quote>silently, pillar by pillar, until</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>grass land</quote> with <quote>grassland</quote>, <quote>suprisingly</quote> with <quote>surprisingly</quote> and <quote>Guyuk the tavern owner greets</quote> with <quote>Guyuk, the tavern owner, greets</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>) Replaced <quote>you seemingly</quote> with <quote>you, seemingly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>terror his</quote> with <quote>terror, his</quote> and <quote>doomwolf</quote> with <quote>Doomwolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>hunting</quote> with <quote>Hunting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote> and <quote>TWO MEALS</quote> with <quote>2 Meals</quote> and capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>) Replaced <quote>well but</quote> with <quote>well, but</quote> and <quote>skill or</quote> with <quote>skill, or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>choking rancid</quote> with <quote>choking, rancid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>) Replaced <quote>exit but</quote> with <quote>exit, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Replaced <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote> and capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>suicidal and</quote> with <quote>suicidal, and </quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Replaced <quote>them and</quote> with <quote>them, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect178">178</a>) Replaced <quote>on to the</quote> with <quote>on the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect179">179</a>) Replaced <quote>wall a</quote> with <quote>wall, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>) Replaced <quote>Inside a</quote> with <quote>Inside, a</quote> and <quote>respond and</quote> with <quote>respond, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>) Replaced <quote>condition you</quote> with <quote>condition, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>doomwolves</quote> with <quote>Doomwolves</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>, <quote>pirazin</quote> with <quote>Pirazin</quote>, <quote>o'here</quote> with <quote>o' here</quote> and <quote>offer but</quote> with <quote>offer, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Replaced <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items,</quote> and capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Replaced <quote>tower and</quote> with <quote>tower, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>) Replaced <quote>building turn</quote> with <quote>building, turn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>) Replaced <quote>grip and with a scream of anguish you</quote> with <quote>grip, and with a scream of anguish, you</quote> and <quote>cold wet</quote> with <quote>cold, wet</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>) Replaced <quote>dismount and</quote> with <quote>dismount, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>narrow and</quote> with <quote>narrow, and</quote> and <quote>worse the</quote> with <quote>worse, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>special items</quote> with <quote>Special Items</quote> and all occurrences of <quote>item</quote> with <quote>Item</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>key and</quote> with <quote>key, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>I and</quote> with <quote>I, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) Replaced <quote>saying you</quote> with <quote>saying, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>audience and</quote> with <quote>audience, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>parchment and</quote> with <quote>parchment, and</quote> and corrected the ellipse in the second paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) Replaced <quote>Gate and</quote> with <quote>Gate, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>life it</quote> with <quote>life, it</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Replaced both instances of <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>) Replaced <quote>exhausted and</quote> with <quote>exhausted, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>confusion you</quote> with <quote>confusion, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>) Replaced <quote>descend you</quote> with <quote>descend, you</quote>, <quote>Pathmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> and <quote>or Divination</quote> with <quote>or of Divination</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>shaft and</quote> with <quote>shaft, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced <quote>Divination add</quote> with <quote>Divination, add</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>name but</quote> with <quote>name, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>donation and</quote> with <quote>donation, and</quote> and <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect238">238</a>) Replaced <quote>backstoke</quote> with <quote>backstroke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect240">240</a>) Replaced <quote>identities but</quote> with <quote>identities, but</quote> and <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced <quote>silver and</quote> with <quote>silver, and</quote> and <quote>button a</quote> with <quote>button, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) Replaced <quote>here and</quote> with <quote>here, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote> and <quote>Psi-shield</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>scalp but</quote> with <quote>scalp, but</quote>, <quote>doomwolves</quote> with <quote>Doomwolves</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>doomwolf</quote> with <quote>Doomwolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>sight, as</quote> with <quote>sight as</quote> and <quote>stygian</quote> with <quote>Stygian</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>softens, as</quote> with <quote>softens as</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) Replaced <quote>doomwolves</quote> with <quote>Doomwolves</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>) Replaced <quote>discovered but</quote> with <quote>discovered, but</quote> and capitalised all Items on the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>yell he</quote> with <quote>yell, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Replaced both instances of <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>items but</quote> with <quote>Items, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>) Replaced <quote>worsened and</quote> with <quote>worsened, and</quote> and <quote>north it</quote> with <quote>north, it</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>meal you</quote> with <quote>meal, you</quote> and <quote>tunnel-shaped</quote> with <quote>funnel-shaped</quote> (cf. <a idref="sect76">Section 76</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) Replaced <quote>on a</quote> with <quote>on, a</quote>, <quote>100 yards</quote> with <quote>One hundred yards</quote> and <quote>companion Banedon</quote> with <quote>companion, Banedon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Replaced <quote>help you</quote> with <quote>help, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect274">274</a>) Replaced <quote>approach a</quote> with <quote>approach, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>) Replaced <quote>cream-coloured</quote> with <quote>cream coloured</quote>, <quote>instantly but</quote> with <quote>instantly, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Replaced <quote>you he</quote> with <quote>you, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>item</quote> with <quote>Item</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>) Replaced <quote>arrest!</quote> with <quote>arrest,</quote> and <quote>spying.</quote> with <quote>spying!</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect291">291</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Replaced <quote>chase but</quote> with <quote>chase, but</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>Vanta</quote> with <quote>Varta</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>him he</quote> with <quote>him, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>finished the</quote> with <quote>finished, the</quote> and <quote>arches and</quote> with <quote>arches, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Replaced <quote>mind stranger</quote> with <quote>mind, stranger</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>willingly and</quote> with <quote>willingly, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>doomwolf</quote> with <quote>Doomwolf</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>beyond a</quote> with <quote>beyond, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced <quote>yells 'Take</quote> with <quote>yells, 'Take</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect321">321</a>) Replaced <quote>as Special</quote> with <quote>as a Special</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>wrong-doers</quote> with <quote>wrongdoers</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>key'&thinspace;</quote> with <quote>key,'&thinspace;</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>items</quote> with <quote>Items</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote> and <quote>direction you</quote> with <quote>direction, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>hill a</quote> with <quote>hill, a</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced both instances of <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>end and</quote> with <quote>end, and</quote>, <quote>stewn</quote> with <quote>strewn</quote> and <quote>this;</quote> with <quote>this:</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">Section 5</a>) This is the correct answer to Khmar's dagger riddle.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">Section 6</a>) This section corresponds to a partially correct combination for the pyramid lock.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>) Remember to delete the Rope from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">Section 11</a>) Although this book gives no explicit restriction, it may be appropriate to consider the Zaaryx a wasteland in regard to fulfilling Meal requirements with Hunting and Huntmastery.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">Section 12</a>) You must possess at least one arrow in order to fire your bow again.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">Section 25</a>) Remember to mark off one dose of Sabito on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">Section 29</a>) Remember to note both doses of Sabito on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">Section 38</a>) You may only add 3 to the number picked even if you possess both Magnakai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">Section 50</a>) This is the correct answer to Khmar's riddle about his youngest son.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">Section 72</a>) In this case, a 0 picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> counts as 10.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">Section 94</a>) Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">Section 97</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">Section 104</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>Regardless of how many rounds the combat lasts, you must defeat the ghoul before continuing.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">Section 115</a>) To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections</a> list and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer to the Khmar's riddle, the footnotes for that section will tell you so.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">Section 166</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect171">Section 171</a>) Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>) Although this book gives no explicit restriction, it may be appropriate to consider the Zaaryx a wasteland in regard to fulfilling Meal requirements with Hunting and Huntmastery.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">Section 177</a>) You do not find any weapon-like Special Items. Keep them marked with an <quote>x</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> since you may still be able to retrieve them.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">Section 191</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">Section 197</a>) Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">Section 204</a>) To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections</a> list and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct answer to the Khmar's riddle, the footnotes for that section will tell you so.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">Section 218</a>) Although this book gives no explicit restriction, it may be appropriate to consider this subterranean area a wasteland in regard to fulfilling Meal requirements with Hunting and Huntmastery.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">Section 241</a>) To turn to the section of your choice, there are several methods. One is to turn to the <a idref="numbered">Numbered Sections</a> list and choose the appropriate section from the list.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen the correct combination or one of the partial combinations, the footnotes for those sections will tell you so.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">Section 253</a>) Golds Crowns may not be paid in lieu of Lune in this instance.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">Section 254</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double these undead creatures' <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">Section 282</a>) Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">Section 301</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double this undead creature's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">Section 309</a>) To clarify, Sogh joins in the combat if you defeat the first two Tower Guards.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313">Section 313</a>) Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">Section 320</a>) This section corresponds to a partially correct combination for the pyramid lock.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">Section 322</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you may double these undead creatures' <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">Section 326</a>) This section corresponds to the correct combination for the pyramid lock.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">Section 349</a>) Remember to remove the used Torch from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> if you choose to use it.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>) According to the <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter: Summer Special 1987</cite>, if your weapons and weapon-like Special Items were confiscated by the South Gate Guard, they are now gratefully returned to you.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect11">Section 11</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect32">Section 32</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect46">Section 46</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect75">Section 75</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect82">Section 82</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect97">Section 97</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect120">Section 120</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect129">Section 129</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect148">Section 148</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect180">Section 180</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect220">Section 220</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect243">Section 243</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect258">Section 258</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect286">Section 286</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect300">Section 300</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect316">Section 316</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect323">Section 323</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect336">Section 336</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Republic of Anari</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect2">Section 2</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect27">Section 27</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect58">Section 58</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect61">Section 61</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect69">Section 69</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect80">Section 80</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect87">Section 87</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect124">Section 124</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect150">Section 150</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect179">Section 179</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect350">Section 350</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
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- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
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- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
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- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
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- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
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- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
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- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
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- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
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- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
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- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
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- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
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- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
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- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
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- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
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- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
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- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
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- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
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- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
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- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
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- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
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- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
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- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
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-$Log$
-Revision 1.3 2006/01/20 19:51:28 jonathan.blake
-moral -> morale in blurb
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.6 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
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-Revision 1.5 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
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-Revision 1.4 2002/12/06 00:06:35 jblake
-XML cleanup.
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-Revision 1.3 2002/11/12 18:49:50 jblake
-Fix of interbook links.
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-Revision 1.2 2002/11/10 07:47:07 jblake
-Updated the publication date.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:16:55 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>The Dungeons of Torgar</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>Trumpets announce the advance and you set off across the body-strewn battlefield with a force 900 strong. Pikemen lead the column with archers close behind, and bringing up the rear are a levy of militia, many of whom lived in Cetza before Drakkarim invaded. Their morale is high for this is their chance to recover their homes and their land.</p>
- <p>Tensely you watch as the enemy attack. The Palace Guard link shields but, as the Hammerlanders slam into their line, they buckle and waver beneath the crushing onslaught. As your force crosses the ditch, you pray that the Prince and his men have strength enough to hold for just a few minutes more.&ellips;</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Glen and Mads</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
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- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Kevin Garrett</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne (front matter)<br />Matthew Reynolds (numbered sections)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Simon Osborne<br />Lawrence Ritchie<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Peter Smyth<br />Brian Thompson</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies&emdash;the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Many centuries have passed since Sun Eagle, the first of your kind, established the Order of the Kai. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he completed a perilous quest to find seven crystals of power known as the Lorestones of Nyxator, and upon their discovery he unlocked a wisdom and strength that lay within both the Lorestones and himself. He recorded the nature of his discoveries and his experiences in a great tome entitled <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>. You have discovered this lost Kai treasure and have given a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, thereby ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. However, your diligent study of this ancient book has enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. To fulfil your pledge, you must complete the quest first undertaken by Sun Eagle over a thousand years ago. By doing so successfully, you, too, will acquire the power and wisdom of the Magnakai, which is held within the Lorestones' crystal forms.</p>
- <p>Already your quest has taken you far from your northern homeland. Following in the footsteps of the first Kai Grand Master, you journeyed to Dessi and sought the help of the Elder Magi, the magicians who aided Sun Eagle on his quest long ago. There you learned that for centuries the Elder Magi had awaited your coming. An ancient Dessi legend tells of the birth and rise to greatness of two <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, which means <quote>sons of the sun</quote>. One was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, which means <quote>eagle</quote>, and the other was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, which means <quote>wolf</quote>. A prophecy foretold that the <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign> would each come from the north to seek the counsel of the Elder Magi in order that they might fulfil a great quest. Although separated by several centuries, they would share one spirit, one purpose and one destiny&emdash;to triumph over the champions of darkness in an age of great peril. The Elder Magi knew that you were <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>&emdash;the wolf of Dessi legend&emdash;and in keeping with their ancient vows they promised to help you complete the Magnakai quest.</p>
- <p>In Elzian, the capital of Dessi, you were tutored in the histories of Magnamund and received lessons in lore that you would have learned from the Kai masters if only they, like you, had survived the murderous Darklord attack on the Kai monastery twelve years ago. You were eager to learn all that your tutor, Lord Rimoah, could teach you in preparation for the next stage of your quest, but grim news from the Darklands cut short your tuition. In the Darklord city of Helgedad a civil war had erupted, following your defeat of Haakon, Archlord of the Black City. After five years, the battle for the throne of Helgedad had finally been won by a Darklord called Gnaag. The other Darklords, now united behind this new leader, were ordered to amass huge armies in preparation for the conquest of Magnamund. Swiftly their Giak legions grew in number, enabling Gnaag to launch a sweeping invasion that was to catch the freelands unprepared. Several countries, after brief but futile resistance, were completely overrun by Darklord armies; others surrendered without fighting in the face of their determined might. And sadly there were others who chose to betray former friends and allies by joining the Darklord cause, in the misguided hope that they would share in the spoils of victory, following the triumph of Darklord Gnaag. One such land was Vassagonia, a powerful desert realm to the north of Dessi. Her armies mobilized and invaded the neighbouring states of Casiorn and Cloeasia, then marched west through the republic of Anari in order to join with Gnaag's horde as it steamrollered across central Magnamund. The Elder Magi urged you to begin the quest for the fourth Lorestone at once. The enemy armies were converging on the Anarian capital of Tahou, and beneath that ancient city the Lorestone lay hidden.</p>
- <p>Aided by Magemaster Banedon, an old friend and fellow countryman, you set off in haste for Tahou and arrived barely hours ahead of the enemy. Successfully you made your descent and discovered the object of your quest, but on returning to the surface you found Tahou transformed into a blazing inferno. Darklord Gnaag and Zakhan Kimah, the ruler of Vassagonia, had learnt of your presence and were determined to destroy you at all costs. For days their engines of war had hurled fire and rock across the walls of Tahou with devastating effect. Then a massive assault, led by the Zakhan himself, breached the west gate and gained entry to the burning city. Armed with a weapon of awesome power, the evil Zakhan sought you out and challenged you to a fight to the death. The struggle was desperate but you emerged victorious and led the Anarians in a counter-attack that cleared the city of the invading foe. The allies of Anari arrived to raise the siege and in the ensuing battle the demoralized armies of Gnaag and Kimah were smashed and routed.</p>
- <p>Your defeat of Zakhan Kimah turned the tide of war decisively against the Darklord armies and paved the way for the liberation of the lands they had taken by force. But the sweet taste of victory turned sour when you discovered that Darklord Gnaag had captured the last three remaining Lorestones of Nyxator. Lord Rimoah and other members of the High Council of the Elder Magi joined you in Tahou to help formulate a plan of action. They had already received word from Prince Graygor, the ruler of Eru, that one of his patrols had found a man near the borders of the Hellswamp. He was a Talestrian soldier who had escaped from the dread city-fortress of Torgar where he had been imprisoned after being captured in battle. He had suffered terribly at the hands of the Drakkarim&emdash;evil humans in the service of the Darklords&emdash;and when found he was so badly injured that he was almost unrecognizable. Before he died he spoke of three radiant gems filled with golden light that had been brought to Torgar from the Darklord city of Mozgôar.</p>
- <p><quote>We are now sure that what he saw was the arrival of the stolen Lorestones,</quote> said Rimoah, speaking on behalf of the High Council. <quote>They radiate a goodness so strong that Gnaag could not hold them in the Darklands but had to move them to Torgar. There his sorcerers&emdash;the Nadziranim&emdash;are searching for the means to destroy them. The black art of the Nadziranim has grown powerful of late and we fear they may achieve the task set them by Gnaag. Therefore we must act quickly and with utmost secrecy if the Lorestones and the Magnakai quest are to be saved.</quote></p>
- <p>The Elder Magi had already made preparations for your secret journey to Eru where, upon your arrival, Prince Graygor will help you reach the grim city of Torgar. The thought of having to enter the terrible Drakkarim stronghold fills you with dread, but your pledge to destroy the Darklords and restore the Kai strengthens your resolve and helps you suppress your fear.</p>
- <p>On the eve of your journey to Eru, the Elder Magi convene a special meeting of the High Council to pray for the success of your mission. For several hours they kneel in prayer until finally they arise and intone the blessing that has sustained you in the past: <quote>May the gods Ishir and Kai protect you on your journey into darkness, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Kor-Skarn</foreign>.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 10. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You many choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (Books 6&endash;12).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta><title>Animal Control</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
-<p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta><title>Curing</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta><title>Invisibility</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta><title>Psi-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but -2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta><title>Psi-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta><title>Divination</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 10 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in Book 11. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, which is called <cite><a href="&link.11tpot;">The Prisoners of Time</a></cite>.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you leave Anari and journey across Magnamund to the principality of Eru, the Elder Magi give you a <a idref="map">map of Ghatan and its surrounding territories</a>, and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed books 1&endash;9 of the Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. You can carry a maximum of only fifty Crowns, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>The Senate of Tahou, in gratitude for your help in saving their city from destruction, offer you a choice of equipment to aid you on your perilous mission. You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two Weapons and eight Backpack Items.</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Lantern (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="lantern.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="lantern.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Mace (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mace.gif" width="386" height="137" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mace.pdf" width="386" height="137" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>3 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Lantern&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left in safekeeping at your
-Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Eru is the Lune, but Gold Crowns are readily accepted at an exchange rate of four Lune for every one Gold Crown.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as -3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><p>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</p></li>
- <li><p>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</p></li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
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- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta><title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will steadily improve. If you have reached the rank of Primate (four skills), Tutelary (five skills), Principalin (six skills), or Mentora (seven skills), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="primate">
- <meta><title>Primate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tutelary">
- <meta><title>Tutelary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a weapon, Tutelaries lose only 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, instead of the usual 4 points.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill when hiding from an enemy by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defences against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities. However, this improved Discipline can be negated if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prncpln">
- <meta><title>Principalin</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this skill are able to call on a woodland animal (if nearby) to aid them, either in combat, or to act as a messenger or guide. The number of animals that can be summoned increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Principalins are able to mask any sounds made by their movements while using this skill.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this Magnakai Discipline are able to intensify their eyesight at will, giving them telescopic vision.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Principalins using this skill in combat are able to confuse an enemy by planting seeds of doubt in its mind. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this ability can extinguish fires by force of will alone. The size of the fire, and the number that can be extinguished using Nexus increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mentora">
- <meta><title>Mentora</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras skilled in Weaponmastery are more accurate when using all missile weapons, whether fired (e.g., a bow) or thrown (e.g., a dagger). When using a bow or thrown weapon and instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, add 2 to the number picked if you are a Mentora with the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras with this skill are able to neutralize the effects of any poisons, venoms or toxins with which they come into contact.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to cross any kind of terrain on foot without leaving any tracks, even if the ground is covered in snow.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras with this ability can protect themselves from evil spirits and other non-corporeal beings that attack with psychic energy. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras who possess this skill are able to detect psychic residues lingering in a place where a dramatic event, such as a battle, a murder, a ritual sacrifice or a ritual ceremony, has taken place. By meditating at the scene of the incident, a Kai Mentora is able to visualize the event, even though it may have occurred in the distant past.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Magnakai Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quest to retrieve the last three Lorestones of Nyxator from the clutches of the Darklords will be fraught with deadly dangers. The evil host of Helgedad will summon their most brutal forces to thwart your Magnakai quest. Make notes as you progress through this story&emdash;they will be of great help in this and in future adventures.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will help you during your mission. Some Special Items will be of use in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice enables any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.</p>
- <p>The restoration of the Kai and the future of your homeland depends on the success of this mission. May the spirit of your ancestors and the wisdom of the great God Kai guide you on the path of the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is dawn on midsummer's day when you ride out of Tahou. Since your victory over Zakhan Kimah, your appearance in a public place has been enough to provoke spontaneous cheering from the Tahouese, who regard you as their saviour. But on this warm, sunny morning you leave the city unnoticed, for on this occasion you appear to be just another messenger.</p>
- <p>The army uniform you wear and the white horse you ride are part of an elaborate deception conceived by the Elder Magi. In order to make Darklord Gnaag believe that you are returning to Sommerlund, you have given your Kai cloak and tunic to your friend Banedon. Disguised as you, he will leave for Sommerlund aboard his flying ship Skyrider this afternoon. A formal ceremony is planned to mark his departure and another awaits his arrival at the King's Citadel in Holmgard. Gnaag has vowed to kill you: it is a vow which has become an obsession that torments him like a poisoned wound. It is hoped that Banedon's much-publicized flight home will lure Gnaag's vengeful eyes away to the north and raise your chances of success at Torgar considerably.</p>
- <p>Your ride ends in Firma, where you catch a barge down-river to the port of Talon. There you hear news of a rebellion in Barrakeesh, the Vassagonian capital, and reports of the sudden withdrawal of all Vassagonia's troops from the lands she invaded early in the war. It bodes well for the continuing struggle against the Darklords, for Vassagonia was their only major ally. You spend one night in Talon before buying passage aboard a merchantman on its way along the Tentarias, and five days later you disembark at Garthen, the capital of Talestria.</p>
- <p>Talestria was overrun in the early days of the war but the neighbouring country of Palmyrion came quickly to her aid. The armies of Talestria and Palmyrion united and fought the invading horde, led by Warlord Zegron of Ogia, on the battle-plains to the north of Garthen. For three days and three nights a bitter struggle raged and the allies were sorely pressed to withstand the overwhelming numbers of the enemy ranged against them. But on the morning of the fourth day, the unexpected arrival of the dwarven army of Bor was to seal Zegron's doom. His mighty force crumbled and the survivors, fleeing northwards in chaos, were pursued relentlessly. The latest news tells of the allies' capture of Xanar, a major Ogian stronghold, and their continued advance westward along the Blackshroud Trail.</p>
- <p>The Royal Court of Queen Evaine would be honoured to assist you, but secrecy is paramount to the success of your quest and so you shun the Royal Palace and take lodgings instead at a humble dockside tavern. There you arrange transportation to Eru aboard a brigantine bound for Humbold, the Eruan capital, and leave next day on the noon tide. Upon your arrival, you make your way to the city's ancient quarter where the Elder Magi have arranged a clandestine meeting with Prince Graygor. In the cellar of a disused warehouse, the young Prince waits patiently for your coming. Like you, he is dressed in the clothes of a messenger in order that he can walk the streets of his city incognito. He welcomes you with a salute, bringing his hand diagonally across his chest, and assures you that your true identity is known only to him. For over an hour you discuss your plans and listen to the Prince recount some of the events that have disturbed the peace of Eru. Two years ago, Drakkarim renegades from the Hammerlands attacked and overran his northern city of Luomi. The inhabitants were slaughtered and the holy temple of Luomi, around which the city was founded, was looted and burnt to the ground. Only recently did he learn from the Elder Magi that the ancient temple held the Lorestone of Luomi, one of the three Lorestones now locked in Torgar. At the time of the attack the Prince's army was too small to repel the invaders and he was forced to abandon the city, as well as the border town of Cetza. But in the past month he has joined forces with King Sarnac of Lencia, and together they have recaptured Luomi and driven Baron Shinzar and his Hammerland rebels all the way back to Cetza, within thirty miles of the border.</p>
- <p>The Prince invites you to accompany him to Luomi where he is to resume command of his army and lead them to battle. He provides you with a fine Eruan steed and a new disguise that will enable you to travel through Eru without drawing undue attention to yourself.</p>
- <p>Dressed as an Eruan Pathfinder, one of an élite unit of woodsmen who operate in the harsh territories bordering the Hellswamp, you ride north with the Prince's entourage and arrive at the city five days later. Every house, stable, tavern and municipal building is filled to overflowing with knights and men at arms. But, despite their cramped billets and meagre rations, the soldiers of Eru and Lencia are in good spirits, for tomorrow they march against a foe they have already beaten in battle, and most are eager to finish the job once and for all. You are given lodgings within the main citadel of Luomi and later that evening, after the Prince has attended a war conference with King Sarnac, you meet in private to discuss the next stage of your quest.</p>
- <p><quote>There are two ways to reach Torgar,</quote> says the Prince, as you study the <a idref="map">map</a> given to you by the Senate of Tahou. <quote>You can cross the River Brol and make your way northwards through the Moggador Forest, or you can go to Pirsi and seek out Sebb Jarel. He is the leader of a brave band of partisans who have ambushed and resisted the Drakkarim ever since they invaded. If there is a path to Torgar between the Hellswamp and the Isle of Ghosts, he will know it.</quote></p>
- <p>You ponder the choices and wonder why the Prince has not suggested the simplest route of all: north across the Isle of Ghosts. When you mention this he shakes his head ominously. <quote>The isle is cursed,</quote> he says, pointing at the <a idref="map">map</a> with an accusing finger. <quote>Few have ever come out of that dreadful place alive. And of those poor wretches who have survived, only one has kept a grip of his sanity. His name is Sebb Jarel.</quote></p>
- <p>Next day you rise with the dawn and prepare to set off on your journey to Torgar. There are two routes open to you: you can ride to Pirsi and seek out Sebb Jarel, the partisan leader, and the only man who can guide you through this treacherous wilderness; or you can accompany Prince Graygor to battle at Cetza. If his army beats the Drakkarim and forces them to retreat, the way across the River Brol will be open and you will be able to approach Torgar under cover of the Moggador Forest. Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> before you decide which route to take.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to go to Pirsi, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you choose to accompany Prince Graygor to battle at Cetza, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your mastery of Nexus you extinguish the flames that are scorching your arm, and immediately set about helping those Palmyrions who have survived the devastating attack. Less than half are able to stand, but you manage to pull them into a defensive circle in time to fight the Drakkarim who are charging along the street.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Garrison</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fear returns to tie a knot in your stomach as you detect the scent of live Akataz. Instinctively you flatten yourself to the ground and a twisting grey blur arcs over your head and crashes headlong into the undergrowth. You are unharmed but you sense that the dog is just the first of many that are rushing towards this part of the forest, drawn by the blood of their kin and the scent of your body. Before it can recover from its failed attack, you jump to your feet and sprint away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An hour before dawn, you leave Cetza and ride across the open grasslands that slope gently towards the River Brol. A full moon and the gathering light of day help you identify the landmarks that Prince Graygor told you to look out for to help guide you to a ford close to the site of an abandoned copper mine. His directions prove accurate and by mid-morning you find yourself on a ridge that overlooks the ford and its cluster of derelict mining huts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Magnakai rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the Magnakai rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you do not possess either of these skills, or have yet to reach these levels of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice there is a spot where a gantry passes directly over the ball of green flame. If you could crawl to that spot you would be able to cup your hands below the Lorestones. Paido could then destroy the crystal rods, and the Lorestones, freed of the energy beams, would drop into your hands.</p>
- <p>It is a bold plan but you feel confident that it will succeed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You share the officer's horse as he leads his company back along a route they have already ridden. Steadily the road winds upwards through the hills towards a ridge of yellow rock and, as you reach the crest of the ridge, you catch your first awe-inspiring glimpse of Torgar.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The grim city-fortress of Torgar</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="678" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="678" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The walls of this grim city-fortress stand upon the brink of a ravine cut deep by centuries of rushing water. A natural causeway of stone spans this dark chasm and provides the only means of approaching Torgar from the south. Its position and its defences seem impregnable. It commands the only road into the barren land of Ghatan, and any who dare travel that road must pass over the causeway and through the city's great iron gate.</p>
- <p>In the past there have been few who would venture willingly to Torgar, but now the causeway and its approaches swarm with such men. They are the soldiers of Talestria and Palmyrion, and they have come with their engines of war to lay siege to this grim Drakkar fortress.</p>
- <p>The scout officer spurs his horse away from the ridge and you are carried towards a cluster of tents that stand on high ground overlooking the siege-works. As you arrive, a group of knights steps forward to take the horse's reins. You dismount with the officer and follow as he enters the largest tent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you have ever visited the land of Talestria in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If not, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain grunts his approval and returns your salute. Then he catches sight of your signet ring and suddenly his mood becomes much more friendly. He orders the townsfolk to lower their pistols and return to their homes and begrudgingly they obey his command. <quote>Come,</quote> he says, placing his hand on your shoulder. <quote>You must be thirsty after your day's ride.</quote></p>
- <p>He pushes open the tavern door and draws aside a tattered leather curtain. A dozen pairs of eyes look towards you as you enter, stare briefly, then return to their own business.</p>
- <p><quote>I see you come to Pirsi with the Prince's favour,</quote> says the captain, casting a glance at the ring you wear as you raise the tankard of ale he places before you. <quote>What news do you bring from the Royal Court?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I'm here on a mission, a secret mission of great importance,</quote> you reply, guardedly. <quote>I must speak with Sebb Jarel, for only he can help me accomplish the task. I am at liberty to say no more.</quote></p>
- <p>The captain looks at you quizzically. <quote>It's unlike Prince Graygor to entrust such responsibility to one of your rank, soldier. If you expect me to take you to Jarel you have first to satisfy me that you're a Pathfinder. That bandit Baron Shinzar has sent men to find Jarel before&emdash;on missions of assassination. I want proof you're not another one of his agents.</quote></p>
- <p>He peers over your shoulder towards the tavern bar and signals to the owner by blinking three times. The metallic click of a crossbow being cocked and your Kai sixth sense alert you to the weapon that is now pointed at your back. <quote>Tell me, soldier, where were you trained as a Pathfinder? Was it in Humbold, in Sharwhan, or in Testla?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have mastery of this Lore-circle you must hazard a guess at the answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you answer, <quote>Humbold</quote>, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you answer, <quote>Sharwhan</quote>, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you answer, <quote>Testla</quote>, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spur your horse down the slope and gallop along an overgrown track that leads to the ford. The log huts are shrouded in silence, but as you draw level with them, a gruff shout shatters this illusion of peacefulness and a hail of arrows cuts through the air.</p>
- <p>One of the black shafts buries itself in your horse's neck. He shrieks in pain and crashes to his knees, hurling you into the river. You gulp a mouthful of the icy water and struggle to your feet, coughing and cursing, just in time to see your ambushers pour out of the nearest hut and advance towards you. Some are reloading their bows as they run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to try to escape by wading across the ford, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shaft arcs towards the Baron, but it reaches him just as he turns to push his troops into line and it glances off his pauldron, a shaped steel shoulder guard bolted to his breastplate. Alerted to your presence, he spins around and glares into your eyes, his red axe glinting as sunlight breaks through the haze of battle-smoke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An evil smile spreads across Roark's face as the Demonlord finally comes to his aid. You strike the creature but your blows merely splinter your weapon. Incensed by your defiance, Tagazin leaps upon you and sinks his fangs deep into your chest. Pain explodes through your body but the agony is soon obliterated by the numbing chill of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beaten and bloodied, the surviving Krorn back away whimpering as you climb over the bodies of their slain brothers and stalk towards them. Baron Shinzar screams in anger and lifts his axe high. He barges through his misshapen troops and stands before you, glaring like a man possessed. <quote>Meet your doom, Eruan scum!</quote> he sneers, and strikes out at your head. You block the blow but your weapon is destroyed in a flash of sparks (delete this weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>): the Baron wields a weapon forged by sorcery. As he lifts it anew, you prepare to dodge its lethal caress.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your ability to intensify your vision you focus on the advancing horsemen. You see that they are all wearing surcoats of scarlet and grey, embroidered with a crest bearing an open hand. The only horsemen who wear this livery are the cavalry of Talestria.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you wish to wave down these riders, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you would rather hide from them beneath the bridge, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your Kai skills you blend with the shadows and stand absolutely still. The Death Knight warrior appears, filling the archway with his massive frame. He snatches up the spear in his mailed fist, turns, and then hauls himself out of the ditch, grunting and cursing his carelessness as he struggles in his heavy armour.</p>
- <p>You wait for about twenty minutes before leaving your hiding place and working your way along the ditch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your Kai skill on Adamas's hand but you cannot tell which side of the coin is showing. All you can detect is a strong magical aura, indicating that the coin is magically shielded. You have no option but to guess which side is showing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to call <quote>heads</quote>, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to call <quote>tails</quote>, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a crash among the roots and briars, and roll to lessen the shock of impact. Sharp thorns graze your hands and knees (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) but otherwise you survive the jump intact. Quickly you gather up your equipment and press on into the eerie forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A narrow pathway branches away from the main alley and you rush along it, barging aside a Hammerlander who appears suddenly from a doorway. The screams of your company and the clash of swords echo in the narrow confines of the passage as you make your escape swiftly towards the centre of the town. The passage opens on to a wider street where a barn-like building stands at the corner. Crouching at a window on the upper floor is a Drakkarim archer with an arrow notched ready to fire. He sees you appear and releases his straining bowstring, sending his arrow whistling towards your heart.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If the total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If it is 3&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Naog daka!</quote> snarls a voice in the corridor behind. You spin round to see two Drakkarim warriors, both armed with loaded crossbows. Slowly you let your hand drift towards your weapon but your move does not go unnoticed. Suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and darkness washes over your vision as you are slammed back against the door by the force of the bolt which has penetrated your skull. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You coax your horse along the rocky trail as it winds its way upstream towards the foothills of the Eru Range. By early evening you have traversed several miles of difficult terrain and, by chance, you find yourself at the entrance to an incredible gorge. It is filled with a sea of wild flowers so colourful that you are dazzled by their brilliance. The scent they exude is extremely potent and you feel a tremendous urge to dismount and lie down to sleep among the beautiful blooms.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the rank of Primate or more, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It becomes colder as night draws its black cloak around the clearing. Having done without sleep the previous evening you are now very tired, and settle down to rest with your back against the mossy temple wall. You are just drifting off when you become aware that something is moving near the edge of the trees. Shadowy shapes wreathed in mist are swirling around the pines like phantoms in a dream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen and have reached the Magnakai rank of Mentora, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you do not possess this skill or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tagazin shudders as the blows of the Sommerswerd rob him of his supernatural strength. His body becomes pale, almost transparent, and tiny tendrils of smoke curl from his skin as if his body was slowly evaporating. He retreats towards the centre of the temple and leaps on to the marble block. There is a chilling howl and suddenly the shadowy chamber is flooded with a blinding light. Thunder booms and the walls shake. Terrified, Roark and his companions flee through the shattered doors and scramble up the stairs. Crackling bolts of white lightning leap from the marble block to tear great chunks of rock from the walls, and the air seethes with a cloying stench that threatens to suffocate you. With terror in your heart you bound up the stairs and escape as the defeated spirit of the Demonlord vents its spite on the chamber below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the King's headquarters only to discover that he is not there: he has taken personal command of his Horse Knights and mounted men-at-arms, and led them in an attack on the enemy's reinforcements. From the top of the hill you can see a huge cavalry battle taking place on the grasslands south of Cetza. Amid the wheeling ranks of armoured horsemen, at the very heart of the fiercest fighting, flies the King's banner. It would be impossible for you to reach him and request that he save the Prince.</p>
- <p>Mindful of the time that has been lost, you turn your horse about and set off towards the Prince's reserves, determined now to lead them yourself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49"><link-text>Turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai skill warns you that the robed figures possess magical abilities. The glass globes they are holding contain a volatile mixture of phosphorous and oil. If the globes were to break, the contents would burst into flames immediately on contact with the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you have a bow and wish to fire an arrow at one of the globes, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If not, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fling aside the curtain and rush through the archway into the passage beyond. The two cave guards turn to face you but the speed of your escape leaves them fumbling for their spears. You reach the exit, breathless and fearful, and catch sight of a patrol of horsemen arriving at the camp. They dismount, tether their horses to some bushes and make their way wearily towards the main campfire. Seeing an opportunity to escape, you rush to the first bush and snatch up the reins of the nearest mount. Suddenly a cry echoes from the cave mouth: the guards are raising the alarm. You climb into the saddle but your escape is blocked by a partisan horseman riding up the narrow track that leads into the camp.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Partisan Horseman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually your Psi-screen weakens enough to enable the phantoms to engulf you with their snaky tendrils. You shudder with fear as they coil around your limbs, filling them with a terrible chill that steals your strength and your will to resist. Reluctantly you surrender to their numbing caress and slip into a sleep from which there will be no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rub your eyes and look around you at a campsite nestling in a hollow at the foot of a great, snow-capped mountain. It is occupied by a host of partisans, who are busy tending their ponies and sharpening weapons dulled by heavy fighting. Your escort helps you to dismount and you are led through the camp to a cave hidden beneath a huge outcrop of rock. As you enter the cave and follow a torchlit passage, you hear voices echoing in the distance and your keen nostrils catch the scent of roasting meat. The passage ends at a curtained archway guarded by two men with spears. They look at you brusquely, as if you were a stray dog, but your escort explains your purpose here and they stand aside to allow you an audience with their leader, Sebb Jarel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of pain begins to envelop your mind, but your psychic defences deflect the attack before it overwhelms your senses: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>The attack ceases but your fear grows as you watch the jackal-like Demonlord leap from the marble block and come bounding towards the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If not, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your pack and weapons land safely among the tangle of foliage that carpets the ground on the opposite side of the chasm. Free of their encumbrance, you take a long run-up and leap feet-first across the gap.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a dozen webbed hands slap over the sides of the boat and six ghoulish, dome-shaped heads rise from the river. Their mottled throat sacs puff and slacken fitfully as these creatures clamber over the gunwales and launch their attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Suddenly ghoulish, dome-shaped heads rise from the river</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="671" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="671" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Ciquali</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the first round of combat due to the surprise of the attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you win and the fight lasts longer than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On your return to Prince Graygor's tent you are shown to your sleeping area by one of his heralds. It is little more than a pile of straw strewn on the bare ground, but you have slept in worse places than this and you are now too exhausted to complain or look for somewhere more suitable to rest.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a blanket, lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point due to an uncomfortable night's sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect30-1-foot" idref="sect30-1">
- <p>There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. It is exactly the same as <a idref="sect299">Section 299</a> and therefore superfluous.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><a id="sect30-1" idref="sect30-1-foot" class="footnote">The alarm bell signifies that the entrance to the tower is under attack. Adamas and his army have reached the centre of the city and are now fighting their way down into the dungeons in an attempt to free the slaves. The Death Knights are hurrying to their battle stations and they are unaware of your presence in this chamber.</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush headlong through the trees and dense undergrowth, the dreadful howls of the Akataz growing ever louder in your ears. The pine trees appear to be thinning out and, as you break through a mass of waist-high foliage, you discover that the forest ends abruptly at the edge of a steep gorge. You skid to a halt and stare down at a raging river over 100 feet below.</p>
- <p>A snarl, dangerously close, makes you spin on your heel and stare back into the forest. Your gaze is met by a score of hungry war-dogs as they creep closer for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you wish to stand and fight the Akataz, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you choose to evade them by jumping into the gorge, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkarim give a loud yell as soon as they see Adamas appear. At once the vanguard fire their crossbows and many bolts find their mark, but the Drakkarim who fall do not hamper their comrades, who are preparing to welcome Adamas with huge chunks of rock. With cat-like agility he veers right and left, weaving his way through the deluge of falling boulders, which smash down with a terrific crack. He reaches the door unscathed, rips the satchel from his shoulder and primes the crystal explosive. Automatically you start to count as he runs back through rubble and dead bodies. Six &ellips; seven &ellips; eight &ellips; He leaps, and as you count nine he clears the rampart and lands beside you, breathless and exhilarated.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-fast reactions save you from the deadly blade. But even before the dagger has blunted itself on the wall behind, Halgar pulls free the Bullwhip that he carries on his belt. He lashes out and the copper-studded whip snakes towards your unprotected face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Halgar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of his attack you cannot use a bow or evade combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You roll the dead Bhakish into the water and stare fearfully across the Hellswamp at myriad pairs of eyes gleaming coldly in the moonlight. A sudden movement in the water makes you recoil from the edge. Seconds later the scummy surface is whipped into a froth as the bodies are claimed by an unseen predator.</p>
- <p>You and Jarel are unsettled by the encounter and you both spend a sleepless night cradling your weapons and waiting for the dawn: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare deeply into the serpent's scarlet eyes and will the venomous creature to sleep. It begins to sway, then gradually its jaws close and it buries its head in its coils, succumbing totally to your command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the legendary grace and speed of a Kai master in battle, you draw an arrow and send it whistling towards the sniper's head. He utters a gurgling scream as he topples from the first-floor window, your arrow stuck in his throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you wish to run forward to search the body, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you choose to press on towards the centre of the town, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered less than a mile when suddenly you hear the screams of men and startled horses coming from the darkness ahead. Cautiously you advance until you find yourself at the edge of a steep slope which descends to the site of an ancient quarry. Torchlight flickers at the centre of this wooded bowl, illuminating a grim and supernatural conflict.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the curtained arch lies a cavern bathed in the flickering light of a log fire. Five men sit cross-legged around the fire, carving meat from a boar on a spit suspended over the flames, and swilling wine from a wineskin that is passed between them.</p>
- <p><quote>What have we here?</quote> says a man with mouse-like features, as you appear before them.</p>
- <p><quote>A Pathfinder, if I'm not mistaken,</quote> says another, wiping spilt wine from his chin. <quote>Well, Pathfinder, what brings you to our camp?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I come to seek the help of Sebb Jarel,</quote> you reply. <quote>Which one of you is he?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I am Jarel,</quote> answers the mouse-like man. <quote>How can I aid you?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch the reins and wheel your horse around on its hind legs in one swift, elegant movement. The sergeant screams an order and his men lunge forward, hoping to stick you with their swords before your horse's forelegs return to the ground. But their attack is much too slow to catch a Kai master off-guard. Your horse regains its footing and you gallop through their shrinking ring of steel, barging aside two stout mountain ponies and leaving their riders sprawling in the dust.</p>
- <p>The partisans give chase as you gallop headlong down a long and twisting hill track. You are beginning to outdistance your pursuers when your steed suddenly pitches forward and you are thrown head-first into a tangle of foliage. The dense undergrowth cushions your fall and you emerge unscathed, but your horse has been seriously injured. A deep pot-hole ensnared its foreleg and the limb is badly broken: the poor animal cannot go on. The partisans gallop into view and you are forced to abandon your crippled mount and escape on foot. With the angry cries of your pursuers growing ever louder, you curse your ill luck and run for the cover of the surrounding forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corroded iron gantry shakes violently as you inch your way nearer to the flaming green ball. Once you are in position, you call to Paido and, one by one, he smashes the crystal rods.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Roark watches you rush towards him with hate and fear in his eyes. <quote>Help me, master,</quote> he whimpers, rising unsteadily and drawing a slim-bladed sword from beneath his black robes.</p>
- <p>Demonlord Tagazin answers his servant with a thunderous growl but does not hasten his pace to save him from your attack. He seems to be enjoying the fear that Roark displays, and as you strike his growl changes to a hideous snigger.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Roark</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If the fight lasts longer than three rounds, do not continue but <link-text>turn instead to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>By the gods! What manner of black sorcery is this?</quote> gasps Prince Graygor, horrified by the cruel slaughter. But his horror is soon overcome by the sudden realization that he must act swiftly to counter this threat or the battle might be lost. The Lencian knights are being held up at the bridge and every minute that passes costs them dearly.</p>
- <p>He calls for his destrier, a magnificent white charger clad in ornate plate armour, and climbs into the saddle. <quote>To battle!</quote> he shouts, and, ignoring the warnings of his heralds, he spurs his warhorse down the hill. The knights of the Palace Guard give a rousing cheer as he takes his place at the head of their column and leads them towards the ruined temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you wish to mount your horse and join the cavalry advance, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you choose to stay where you are and observe the battle, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your heart in your mouth you leap across the raging river and land with a jolt that leaves you breathless. For several minutes you cling to the smooth rock until you are recovered enough to be able to continue to the far side. When you reach the safety of the opposite bank you discover that you have lost one item from your Backpack&emdash;it must have fallen out as you made the jump.</p>
- <p>Delete the item you have listed second on the Backpack section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before you venture into the Moggador Forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and race towards the bridge, but the way is now blocked by a barricade defended by Drakkarim archers. A clutch of black arrows screams through the air and you are forced to dive into an open doorway to avoid being hit. Swiftly you rise, crouched ready for combat lest an enemy is nearby waiting to attack you, but your caution proves unnecessary&emdash;the ruined cottage is empty.</p>
- <p>After clambering through open windows and working your way across smouldering piles of rubble, you finally emerge at a street with a barn-like building on the corner. Crouching at a window on the upper floor is a Drakkar sniper with an arrow notched and ready to fire. He sees you appear and releases his straining bowstring, sending his arrow whistling towards your heart.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If it is 3&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inside the tent a group of senior officers are poring over their battle-maps and planning their troop dispositions for an assault across the causeway. Their leader has his back to you, but when he turns to see who has entered his tent, you recognize him at once: he is Adamas, Lord Constable of Garthen. <quote>By the gods!</quote> he exclaims. <quote>I thought the Danarg had claimed you, Lone Wolf. How good it is to see you alive.</quote></p>
- <p>He dismisses his captains and bids you tell all that has happened since last you met. <quote>So you wish to break into Torgar,</quote> he says, thoughtfully. <quote>How strange it is that our goals should be so similar. Come, follow me, perhaps cooperation will hasten our success.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on the combined power of your psychic skills, you focus a beam of clairvoyant energy at the captain's mind. Visions of warriors training with weapons and practising their woodcraft swirl before your eyes. You increase your concentration and suddenly a name crystallizes in your mind's eye.</p>
- <p><quote>Sharwhan,</quote> you say, confidently.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287"><link-text>Turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to descend when a shadow looms into view and a Drakkar officer appears at the foot of the stairs. Instantly you press yourself to the wall and use all your Kai skills to mask your presence. He strides up the stairs, passing within a few feet of you, but miraculously he fails to notice you and continues without stopping. After wiping the sweat from your brow you continue down the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tie one end of the rope to a strong stick and cast it across the gap. On your third attempt it anchors in some exposed tree roots near to the edge. A few tentative pulls assure you that it is secure enough to support your weight and you swing across, your feet braced to withstand the jolt of impact against the chasm wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you inform the captains of the reserve regiments of the danger facing their Prince. At first they are reluctant to take orders from a Pathfinder, whose rank is inferior to theirs, but the logic of your argument and your forceful character persuades them to comply with your commands.</p>
- <p>Trumpets announce the advance and you set off across the body-strewn battlefield with a force 900 strong. Pikemen lead the column with archers close behind, and bringing up the rear are a levy of militia, many of whom lived in Cetza before the Drakkarim invaded. Their morale is high for this is their chance to recover their homes and their land.</p>
- <p>Tensely you watch as the enemy attack. The Palace Guard link shields but, as the Hammerlanders slam into their line, they buckle and waver beneath the crushing onslaught. As your force crosses the ditch, you pray that the Prince and his men have strength enough to hold for just a few minutes more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292"><link-text>Turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For several hours you follow an ancient pavement that mostly lies buried beneath the rich black soil of the forest floor. Occasionally you discover a heap of moss-covered slabs; they are all that remain of dwellings built long before the trees conquered the isle. It is late afternoon when you reach a clearing in the middle of which stands a decaying structure of mould-encrusted stone. The building is an immense ziggurat which is so overgrown that it appears to be a part of the surrounding soil and vegetation.</p>
- <p>A section of this verdant growth has been cleared to reveal two massive doors of solid crystal set into the lowest level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A laugh, deep and guttural, rumbles from the far side of the cavern. <quote>I see Skalir's play-actin' ain't good enough to fool you, Pathfinder,</quote> says a man who, until now, has been watching silently in the shadows. As he steps forward, the fire casts a warm glow over his massive frame. He stands over six-and-a-half-feet tall, his face is covered by a thick red beard and he has a shock of bright red hair that cascades over the wolfskin cloak slung over his shoulders. He smiles, his green eyes bright and piercing, set wide beneath an intelligent brow.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A massive man steps forward, with thick read hair and<br />a beard that cascades over his wolfskin cloak</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="594" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="594" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Check on the sentries, Skalir,</quote> he instructs his lieutenant. <quote>And make sure they've got their wits about 'em tonight.</quote> Obediently, the mouse-like man and his four companions leave the chamber. As the curtain is pulled across the archway, the red-haired giant motions you to sit with him at the fire. <quote>I am Jarel,</quote> he says. <quote>What do you want from me?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect92"><link-text>Turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The plate-armoured warriors reach the bottom of the stairs and begin running in your direction, as fast as their heavy equipment will allow. Their ox-like leader urges them on with the words&emdash;<foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Gaz darg! Gaz aga kuzim! Okim der tagog!</quote></foreign></p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you decide to draw a hand weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you choose to keep perfectly still in the hope that they have not seen you, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Excellent!</quote> says King Sarnac. <quote>I wish I had a few like you in my own army.</quote></p>
- <p>He bids you step forward and shows you the extent of the known enemy positions using Prince Graygor's map. Once you have been briefed, he sends for some black clothing for you to wear instead of your grey Pathfinder's uniform and some burnt cork with which to blacken your face and hands. You are then escorted to the edge of the encampment, close to the dusty road on which the army marched from Luomi. The guards tell you that the password is <quote>broadsword</quote>. When you return you must use this word or the pickets&emdash;the sentries who guard the perimeter of the camp&emdash;may mistake you for one of the enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect54-1-foot" idref="sect54-1">
- <p>You may not use the Silver Bow of Duadon in this combat. If you have reached the rank of Tutelary and possess the Discipline of Weaponmastery, you only need to deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> if you are unarmed.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land heavily at the edge of the chasm and the soil disintegrates on impact. Desperately you lunge for a tangle of roots and hold fast as your legs swing wildly in the void. Just as you begin to recover from the shock of the fall, you hear a scrabbling sound coming from somewhere deep within the rock-face. Suddenly a section of the sheer wall crumbles away, exposing the head of a ghastly, worm-like creature with huge, clacking mandibles. You have disturbed a hungry Lapillibore and it is intent on eating you alive.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lapillibore</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your precarious position, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.<a id="sect54-1" idref="sect54-1-foot" class="footnote"> Unless you possess a weapon-like Special Item, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by a further 4 points and fight the creature unarmed.</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the ghosts encircle you and glide forward undaunted by the light. You brace yourself for their attack but still you shudder when their snaky tendrils lash out and engulf your limbs. Their touch fills you with a terrible chill that steals your strength and your will to resist. Reluctantly you surrender to their numbing caress and slip into a sleep from which there will be no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ziran utters a gurgling, blood-soaked death-cry, and crumples at your feet. Tongues of flame ignite and quickly consume his corpse beneath a pall of oily black smoke. Suddenly an explosion shakes the ground as the iron stave disintegrates into a million glowing shards. You rush to the injured Prince, heave him across your shoulder and flee the temple as the flames and choking black fumes begin to spread.</p>
- <p>Once you are a safe distance from the ruins you lower the Prince gently to the ground and watch as the guttering flames gradually ebb and fade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two robed figures utter a sinister curse and fling their globes into the air. The yellow spheres rise higher and higher until they disappear completely in the smoke-laden air. The Palmyrions are eager to engage the enemy and rush forward with their weapons drawn to strike. But before they fall upon the Drakkarim, the yellow spheres fall upon them&emdash;with devastating effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bear knows the forest well: he knows its treasures and its dangers. Carefully you follow in his tracks as he works his way through the pines towards the edge of a deep gorge, where a trail descends gently to the bank of a rushing river. Massive boulders, smoothed by centuries of erosion, rise from the foaming torrent like giant stepping stones. Across the river lies another forest, dark and forbidding. Although the sun is strong in the cloudless sky and the air is warm and dry, a grey mist hangs heavy and cold around the trees of that forest.</p>
- <p>All along the bank on this side of the river grow clumps of bushy herbs with bright red flowers. The bear scoops a pawful of the scarlet petals and chews them contentedly as he nods farewell and ambles back into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The island is no more than a crusty mud flat supporting a brace of stunted trees. You make a landing and haul the boat out of the water before overturning it to provide a shelter from the monotonous drizzle. Your rumbling stomach reminds you that you have not eaten today, and you must eat a Meal now or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You agree to take the first watch and, as Jarel settles down to sleep, you sit and stare across the moonlit swamp, contemplating the journey ahead. By chance you are looking down at the water's edge when a scaly paw breaks through the surface and sinks its claws into the mud. A second paw joins it and between them rises a gruesome fish-like head. Moonlight glints on its needle-thin fangs as silently it slinks out of the mire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If not, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You're a spy!</quote> screams the captain as he reaches for the hilt of his sword. Instinctively you lash out, catching him with a powerful uppercut punch that lifts him clean off his feet and leaves him sprawled on the ground unconscious.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire!</quote> shouts a bull-necked Pirsian. You throw yourself to the floor. A deafening roar reverberates through the town as the men discharge their unwieldy pistols, but the lead shot passes harmlessly over your head and buries itself in the tavern door. The noise stirs a hornet's nest of activity as the rest of the townsfolk arm themselves and rush into the street to investigate the commotion. The situation is beginning to look desperate when you see a chance to escape. The pistols created a huge cloud of white smoke. Under cover of this acrid cloud you scurry along an alley beside the log tavern and run headlong into the foliage and trees beyond.</p>
- <p>With the angry cries of the townsfolk rippling through the forest, you curse your ill luck as you make good your escape into the dark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Talestrians bring their horses to a halt and regard you with suspicion. Their officer draws his sword and demands to know your nationality and the name of your regiment. You reply in his native tongue that you are an Eruan Pathfinder, and a smile spreads slowly across his rugged face. He tells you that he and his men are scouts who have been sent to make sure that the hills are free of enemy troops. Your Kai sixth sense confirms that he speaks the truth, and when he offers to take you to meet his commander, you accept the invitation gladly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The further you skirt around the edge of the chasm the wider it becomes. After an hour of searching for an alternative way across, you are forced to return to the trail and reconsider the jump.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have a rope and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If not, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hail of arrows and the sight of your black-clad form lurching towards them makes the guards over-excited. They fear it is the beginning of a Drakkarim attack, and when they hear you shout the wrong password it makes them panic. <quote>Raid!</quote> they cry, alerting a unit of crossbowmen stationed on the high ground behind them. They grab their loaded weapons and take aim, but the only target they can see is you.</p>
- <p>A scything wave of iron bolts engulfs you and an agonizing explosion of pain fills your chest. You are mortally wounded and although you fight to hang on to your life, it is a struggle you cannot win.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinding pain stabs at your head as pulses of psychic energy prise open the secrets of your mind: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Lord Adamas commands you to reveal your mission and your true identity and you are powerless to resist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the emblem of Salony, the smallest of the Stornland nations. The two soldiers are dressed in the uniforms of mercenary swordsmen from the town of Amory, which is situated close to its northern border. Fear and suspicion grow stronger and you try to fathom a reason why these soldiers of fortune are here on this remote isle, 1000 miles from their homeland.</p>
- <p>One of the men struggles to his feet and begins walking towards you. You sense that he has not seen you&emdash;he is merely answering the call of nature&emdash;but you decide that it is wise to slip away. Under cover of the forest you return to the front of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89"><link-text>Turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>On to Cetza!</quote> shouts Prince Graygor. The battle-cry is taken up by his valiant soldiers as he leads them across the corpse-strewn field towards the town.</p>
- <p>Heavy fighting is raging along the main street. The Lencian knights have taken the bridge and King Sarnac's spearmen have breached the wall that surrounds the apple orchard. However, the Drakkarim are determined to stand their ground and they fight back viciously like starving wolves. You run with a group of longbowmen towards the centre of Cetza and find yourself approaching a barn-like building which overlooks the bridge. Standing at a window on its upper floor is a Drakkar sniper with an arrow notched ready to fire. Patiently he watches you weaving through the smoky ruins until you present a clear target. He releases his straining bowstring and sends an arrow whistling towards your heart.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If your total is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If it is 3&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen silent steps when the voices stop. There is a rustle of foliage, then a group of hideous-looking creatures emerge from the bushes. They are not as tall as you but almost twice as broad, with arms that hang below their knees. They slobber repulsively as they draw their primitive weapons and shuffle closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If not, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a yell, you barge your way through the stunned tavern crowd and kick open the back door. The land behind the building is thickly forested and you run headlong into its welcoming cover. With the angry cries of the Pirsians rippling through the trees, you curse your ill luck and escape into the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>So you are Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, bowing respectfully. <quote>I am honoured to meet you, though I would have wished for happier circumstances. I think I know why you have come to Torgar&emdash;is it not to take the golden gems which Darklord Gnaag sent here?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes,</quote> you reply, <quote>they are the Lorestones of my ancestors and I have vowed to retrieve them. I must fulfil my vow for it is vital to the future safety of both our lands that Gnaag be prevented from destroying them.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly a smile spreads across Paido's face. <quote>I will help you, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, his warrior pride restored by the thought of avenging his cruel imprisonment. <quote>I know where these Lorestones are being held and I will take you there.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect88"><link-text>Turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take aim at the creature's mouth. It howls with devilish glee, drawing back its lips in a snarl that reveals a jaw full of fangs, most over six inches long. As the smell of its fetid breath fills your nostrils, you release your arrow and send it streaking towards the beast's ghastly maw.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If the total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If it is 3&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By the time you reach the ancient burial mound, Roark's follower is being drained of the last of his life-force by a host of hungry ghosts. Fear and premonition gnaw at your stomach when you sense that the evil spirits have detected your presence. They emit an unearthly shriek, and a terrible chill like a blast of icy cold wind washes over your body. You are gripped by an urge to run but they swoop down on you too quickly for you to be able to escape their clutches.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you possess a Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you possess neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature emits a shrill whistle as your killing blow pierces its brain. Its deadly mandibles continue to snap spasmodically, but without purpose, as its lifeless body oozes from the hole and falls limply to the chasm floor.</p>
- <p>Gripping firmly with both hands you haul yourself up, untie the stick from the end of the rope and wind it back into your pack before setting off deeper into the eerie forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shriek rises from the ranks of the Krorn as they catch the scent of your body drifting towards them on the breeze. Their heinous squeals alert Baron Shinzar to your presence and he turns to face you, his red axe glinting as a few rays of sunlight break through the haze of battle-smoke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your good hand you unsheathe your weapon and strike out at your ghostly attackers, but your brave blows pass clean through their mist-like forms without effect. You shudder with fear as their snaky tendrils close tightly around your limbs, filling them with a terrible chill that steals your strength and your will to resist. Reluctantly you surrender to their numbing caress and slip into a sleep from which there will be no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The road beyond the river takes you into thick forest and a dense canopy of branches arches overhead. A dazzling mosaic of light and shade blankets the trail as it winds like a tunnel through the tall, grey-green trees. Gradually the trail becomes rougher: new saplings have speared through the stony surface and foliage spills out from the forest on either side. The tunnel ends abruptly at the edge of a steep valley, although the trail itself continues, winding its way down towards a fast-flowing stream.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you urge your horse down the twisting path to arrive at a cluster of dilapidated log huts. Rust and rot have taken their toll but you can still discern the remains of what was once a mining settlement where men panned for gold. A wooden sign hangs lopsided above an open door, swinging slightly in the breeze. Its paint is cracked and the panel bears fresh sword scars, but you can still make out the words: it reads, KAIG SETTLEMENT.</p>
- <p>Two trails lead away from this abandoned mining village. One climbs out of the valley and disappears into the forest; the other follows the stream towards its source among the snow-capped mountains of the Eru Range.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to take the trail that climbs out of the valley, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to ride along the track beside the stream, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim and fire in the blink of an eye, sending your arrow coursing deep into the creature's bloated body. It gives a sound more like a scream than a croak and sinks out of sight.</p>
- <p><quote>What the&ellips;!?</quote> coughs Jarel, woken by the scream. But before you can warn him, two more of the fish-like things clamber over the upturned boat and attack you both with their taloned paws.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bhakish</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These swamp dwellers are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gruesome clack of fangs fills your ears and white-hot pain lances through your arms and legs as the Akataz snap shut their powerful jaws. You try to repel them using your Kai mastery of Animal Control, but their blood fury is aroused and their minds are fixed unshakeably on rending you to shreds: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The black bear wrenches one snarling hound from your leg<br />and another is torn to shreds by its razor-sharp claws</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <p>In desperation you will the black bear to come to your aid. It growls angrily and bounds towards the war-dogs. One snarling hound is wrenched from your leg, whirled about and flung into the forest to break its back against a tree. Another has its skull crushed between the bear's powerful paws, and a third is torn to ribbons by one swipe of its razor-sharp claws. With your arms now free you are able to draw a weapon and dispatch an Akataz that has its fangs caught in the sole of your boot. Freed at last from your attackers, you sit up in time to see the bloodied survivors slinking away into the undergrowth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>It's an impressive-looking door,</quote> says Adamas, studying the wall of black iron, pitted and streaked with age. <quote>But every door has its key, and we have the key to this one.</quote> He flips open the leather satchel and removes what appears to be a mass of triangular crystals fused into one solid lump. <quote>This is the device that the Elder Magi prepared for us. It has to be placed at the foot of the door and it is activated by pressing this shard,</quote> he says, pointing to a sliver of crystal protruding from the side. <quote>The thing explodes ten seconds after the shard is pressed.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Calmly he takes a coin from his pocket and flicks it in the air. <quote>One of us must place the device,</quote> he says, as he catches the coin. <quote>We're the only two left who stand a chance of surviving the run.</quote> He nods at his clenched fist and invites you to call <quote>heads</quote> or <quote>tails</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to call <quote>heads</quote>, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to call <quote>tails</quote>, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once you have managed to grab hold of his arms you heave him out from beneath his dead mount and prise open the visor of his helmet. He coughs and retches the mud from his mouth and lies back against the bank of the ditch.</p>
- <p><quote>I owe you my life, Pathfinder,</quote> he gasps. <quote>Another minute and I'd have been done for.</quote> You turn to leave but he grabs you by the wrist and presses a Medal into your hand. <quote>I won this at the Battle of Luomi,</quote> he says with pride. <quote>I want you to have it, with my eternal thanks.</quote> (If you wish to keep the Medal, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item that you carry in your pocket.)</p>
- <p>Another cloud of arrows falls from the sky and you dive to the bottom of the ditch to avoid being hit. When you feel it is safe to raise your head, you discover that the knight is no longer with you: he is chasing after the Prince and his fellow knights as they gallop up the hill towards the Drakkarim pikemen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to follow him on foot, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you decide to look for a horse, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lock clicks and the door opens on to a passage lined with torches that splutter and crackle noisily. Halfway along there is another door&emdash;a solid slab of iron broken only by a small, barred window. Silently you approach this door and peer in through the grille.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you have visited the Danarg in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If not, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Akataz fling themselves at you with wild ferocity, as if they are hungry to avenge the deaths of their brothers.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akataz Pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These war-dogs are especially susceptible to psychic attack. If you possess the Discipline of Mindblast or Psi-surge and wish to use either of them, double all bonuses you would normally receive. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, triple all bonuses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">You can evade combat at any time by leaping into the gorge: <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon hearing your reply the officer lowers his sword and a friendly smile spreads across his rugged face. He tells you that he and his men are Talestrian scouts who have been sent ahead of their army to make sure these hills are free of enemy troops. Your Kai sixth sense confirms that he is speaking the truth, and when he offers to take you to meet his commander, you accept the invitation gladly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai skill enables your body to overcome the intoxicating effect of the scent. Shaking your head and stifling a yawn, you urge your horse towards the end of the gorge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the bodies of the dead Krorn but find little of value. Their weapons are crude and poorly fashioned, and their packs contain nothing but strips of dried meat. You consider the long journey ahead, but stories you have heard about the Krorn's love of human flesh are enough to put you off the idea of taking this food.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you wish to hide the bodies before you cross the river, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you choose to leave them where they lie, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sebb Jarel informs the partisans that he has agreed to guide you through the Hellswamp. He is careful not to reveal details of your quest, but he does tell them that your mission has royal approval and, if successful, will strike a major blow against the Drakkarim and their Darklord masters.</p>
- <p>At dawn, after a good night's sleep and a hearty breakfast, you mount and ride along a hidden trail that leads to Pirsi. There you leave your horses, for the next part of your journey, through Forest Taintor, is too difficult to attempt on horseback. Following traces of a forgotten path, you trek through the blue-grey pines until twilight when you stop to make camp for the night. Jarel volunteers for the first watch while you settle down gratefully on a bed of leaf mould and drift off into a dreamless sleep.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>It feels as if you have only just closed your eyes when you are awoken by the savage and desolate howl of a Taintor wolf.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tell you that this man is both trustworthy and highly intelligent. There would be little to gain from trying to deceive him. It occurs to you that with his help it would be far easier for you to gain entry to Torgar and attempt the retrieval of the Lorestones. After careful consideration you decide to reveal your identity.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Four men die before the shield-wall knits together and the lost ground is regained. The Hammerlanders reel back and the Brigandi surge forward, but they too cannot break through the Palace Guard. A trumpet sounds in the distance and the Prince's men cheer when they see their reserves streaming up the hill to support them. Two hundred Eruan pikemen press forward behind their bristling steel and take the enemy in the flank. The attack is devastating. The enemy are split asunder and swept from the slope. The pikemen halt and through their ranks a wave of archers moves forward to fire at the backs of the retreating foe. Retreat turns to rout as the Hammerlanders and Brigandi flee the field in chaos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you follow Paido through the dungeons of Torgar, using the shadows to avoid being seen. Ragged columns of slaves stumble along the passages, dragging their tortured, half-starved bodies to and from the work pits. They are beaten, cursed and whipped relentlessly by their Drakkarim guards, who seem to delight in their suffering.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Ragged columns of slaves stumble along the passages,<br />beaten, cursed and whipped by their Drakkarim guards</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="668" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="668" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You emerge from a corridor into the shadows of a circular chamber, where a staircase ascends to a pair of huge triangular iron doors guarded by a squad of crack Drakkarim Death Knights. A tingling sensation electrifies your skin as your senses detect the presence of the Lorestones somewhere behind these doors. Suddenly an alarm bell fills the chamber with a deafening clangour; the Death Knights begin to descend the stairs and your stomach chums with the fear that you have been detected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Curiosity overcomes your natural caution and you decide to investigate the fascinating structure. You discover that the undergrowth has only recently been chopped away to give access to the doors where gaping, fire-blackened holes are all that remain of the crystal locks that held them secure for centuries. Beyond the damaged doors a dry, dark tunnel slopes gently downwards. It twists as it descends to a chamber, which is huge and empty, and ringed by a score of openings. A green glow and the faint thrumming of discordant chanting draws you to one of these many portals. Beyond it a staircase delves deeper into the earth.</p>
- <p>As you make your way carefully downward, the air becomes increasingly humid and chill. The stairs are slick with moisture and crawling with spiders and other many-legged creatures that scuttle away from your feet. You count sixty steps before the staircase ends at a huge door stained black with damp and age. It is slightly ajar and, as you peer through the crack, you are chilled to the core by what lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You share an evening meal with a company of longbowmen camped close to the Prince's tent. Most of them are tired after the long day's march and when the meal is over they settle down to sleep. However, there are several who cannot sleep and, in order to take their minds off the coming battle, they busy themselves either by notching their arrows and waxing their bowstrings, or by gambling with dice. Two archers from Humbold invite you to join in their game.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you wish to join their game of dice, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you choose instead to return to the Prince's tent, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>White-hot pain explodes through your chest and neck as three black-shafted Drakkarim arrows sink deep into your body. You scream in agony as you fall to the ground, but the pain quickly gives way to a terrifying numbness that robs you of all resistance to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The partisan leader listens patiently as you recount the many events that led you to seek his help. He sits staring into the fire, his eyes fixed on the flickering flames as he digests every word you say and considers their consequences carefully. At length, having heard your earnest appeal for him to guide you, he raises his eyes from the fire and holds you with their piercing gaze.</p>
- <p><quote>You speak with courage and wisdom, Kai lord. It is rare to find these virtues present so strongly in one so young. The help you beg me to provide could cost my life, yet you offer no reward, save the thanks of some distant land and the slender promise of a better age. However, I feel compelled to help you, for in my heart I know you are the one who can deliver us from the perpetual shadow of the Darklords.</quote></p>
- <p>He rises and bids you follow him as he walks to the archway. <quote>Come, we must prepare for our journey. The road you wish to travel is perilous and long. We had best set off at the earliest, lest caution and common sense change my mind.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic defences alert you to deadly danger. The swirling shapes that you see are the ghosts of Cener Druids who were slain on the isle many centuries ago.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="95" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="95" />
- </illustration>
- <p>They have been drawn from their forgotten graves by the presence of their master, Tagazin, and now they come to enact the Demonlord's revenge by feasting on your life-force.</p>
- <p>The creatures take to the air and emit a ghastly howl as they draw closer. They sense your strong psychic defences and know instinctively that to steal your life-force will not be an easy task.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ground to the west of Cetza is flat and featureless and offers very little cover to conceal your approach. Slowly you work your way through the knee-high grasses to within twenty yards of a stone bridge, where the roadway crosses a foul-smelling ditch and enters the town. Your every movement is stiff with caution now, for the bridge is barricaded and you can see the spiky black helmets of the enemy defenders glinting in the moonlight. Snake-like you wriggle forwards, slide down into the ditch and take shelter beneath the stone bridge. With one cheek pressed against the wet stone you strain your ears to hear what the enemy are saying. You recognize their harsh, ugly language&emdash;it is Giak&emdash;but it is being spoken by human voices. The only humans to speak it so fluently are the Death Knights, the élite of the Drakkarim.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly there is a loud splash that sends your pulse racing: a spear has fallen close to where you are hiding and its shaft stands upright in the muddy water. A growling curse is followed by the sound of heavy boots descending the bank as an angry Death Knight comes to retrieve the weapon he dropped.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess mastery of this Lore-circle, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You smite the chain a mighty blow but you miss the rivet and the link does not break. Incensed by the boldness of your attack, and aware now of the threat it would have posed had it succeeded, the Demonlord leaps upon you and sinks his fangs deep into your chest. Pain explodes in your body but the agony is soon obliterated by the numbing chill of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Baron is shouting at the Krorn to form a line and get ready to advance. The only vulnerable part of his body that you can see as he strides back and forth before his troops is his unarmoured head.</p>
- <p>Coolly you draw an arrow to your lips and aim at the nape of his neck.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If your total is now 0&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If your total is now 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For an hour you sit staring at the river, mourning the loss of your brave companion. Your heart is heavy with the grief of his passing but you do not permit sorrow to become despair. You turn your eyes towards Torgar and defiantly you vow to avenge his death by retrieving the stolen Lorestones from the dungeons of that dread citadel.</p>
- <p>Your journey along the bank of the River Torg is a long and tiring ordeal. For eight days you trudge through the black mud, cut off from all view of the lands to the north and south by an unbroken wall of stunted trees. The only inhabitants of this forsaken territory are the buzzing insects which hang seemingly motionless in the humid air. They are a constant source of irritation but at least their bite proves harmless.</p>
- <p>On the morning of the ninth day, the muddy river bank gives way to firmer ground and the trees become less dense. Ahead you can see a barren expanse of yellow sulphurous soil that marks the beginning of the Nadulritzaga foothills. You can also see a road of broken stones disappearing into the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden tumble of loose shale from the rim of the gorge alerts you to potential danger. You focus your eagle eyes on the rugged grey rocks above and catch sight of a pair of eyes staring down at you through a gap between two large boulders. Your stomach tightens. You feel trapped, and are about to spur your horse towards the mouth of the gorge and escape, when a voice calls down from above: <quote>Hail Pathfinder! What news have you from Luomi?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you choose to answer the voice, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you decide to make a hasty escape from the gorge, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shouts of the defenders and the metallic twang of the vanguard's crossbows echo across the causeway as you sprint headlong towards the door. A rain of boulders begins to fall, smashing around you with terrific force, but you manage to dodge these and reach your goal unscathed. Quickly you tear the satchel from your shoulder, prime the crystal explosive, and sprint back, counting the seconds with every step. Suddenly a terrific jolt throws you forward and a dull throbbing pain spreads across your back. A falling rock has clipped your shoulder blade and knocked you to the ground: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Desperation suppresses the pain and you scramble over the rampart with only one second to spare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you approach the edge of the pit and look down into its midnight depths. No light penetrates the blackness and no sounds can be heard in this seemingly bottomless abyss.</p>
- <p>Above you the Lorestones hang suspended in a ball of green flame, beyond reach from the ground but within a hand's breadth of the gantries which criss-cross above the pit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you wish to climb a gantry and attempt to retrieve the Lorestones from above, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you wish to examine the crystal rods, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to search for a way of retrieving the Lorestones from below, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The third day of your voyage is accompanied by a cold west wind that blows across the desolate swamp and chills you to the bone. Clumps of twisted grey foliage line the channel along which you row, releasing nauseating clouds of gas as your bow-wave laps at their rotting roots. At length, you pass by these poisoned shrubs and reach a wider waterway where the current flows against you.</p>
- <p><quote>We must be getting near the Torg estuary,</quote> says Jarel, now having to labour at the oars in order to make headway. He continues for a few minutes more, then, just as you are about to take your turn at rowing, the mouth of the River Torg looms into view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai sense tells you that the trail that climbs out of the valley is heading north. The town of Pirsi lies approximately thirty miles in that direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to take this trail and head north to Pirsi, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you choose to follow the track upstream towards the west, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having made sure that your pack and other equipment are securely fastened, you take a long run-up and leap feet-first across the gap.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If your total in now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the pale, badly scarred features of Roark, lord of the Salonese town of Amory. He has aged much since your last meeting: his jet-black hair is now streaked with grey and he walks with a stoop, as if burdened by a heavy pack. But his eyes are still as cold and as cruel as they were when he attempted to kill you four years ago.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263"><link-text>Turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I come from King Sarnac,</quote> says the officer, his voice full of urgency. <quote>I must find your Prince and request that he commit his reserves at once in support of our knights assaulting the bridge. Our spearmen are already engaged in a desperate attack at the orchard and the rest of our retainers have been used to support our cavalry advance on the right flank. We have but less than 100 men left to save our noblemen, who are being slaughtered at the bridge.</quote></p>
- <p>You tell the officer where the Prince and his Palace Guard are fighting, of their victory, and of the desperate situation they now face. <quote>I understand,</quote> says the officer, sadly. <quote>I cannot expect the Prince to allow his reserves to be used when he needs them so urgently himself.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to return and take command of the Prince's reserves, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to help the Lencian officer gather reinforcements to support the knights at the bridge, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are dazzled by a brilliant flash as the two globes explode, scattering fragments that hiss like a host of fiery snakes into the Palmyrion ranks. The men-at-arms scream with pain and terror as the fragments burn everything they touch. You cannot escape the worst of the blast, but the sleeve of your tunic is splashed with fragments and is now on fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the Magnakai rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a splash, the Death Knight warrior appears, his massive frame filling the archway. He curses his clumsiness and snatches up his spear, but his curses turn to shouts of alarm when he sees you hiding beneath the bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to attack this élite Drakkar soldier, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you wish to escape from beneath the bridge and run for the safety of the allies' camp, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride along an overgrown cart track that descends to the ford. As you draw level with the first log hut, your horse rears up and whinnies as if sensing danger, and you are forced to tighten your grip of the reins for fear of being thrown. As you regain control of your mount there is a sudden shout and a hail of arrows comes whistling towards you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and Animal Control, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If your total is now 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If it is 2&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At point-blank range your arrow strikes the Drakkar leader's armour with lethal force; it punches through the thick metal plate which protects his chest and skewers his heart. As he crashes to the ground, the other warriors draw their swords and rush forward to avenge his death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Élite Death Knights</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>King Sarnac and a host of mounted knights block the road that leads to Blackshroud. They sit astride their warhorses, their armour dented and stained with the blood of the Baron's cavalry, all of whom they have slain in battle or put to flight. The Baron thunders towards them at breakneck speed, but the King and his knights remain grimly immobile, like a wall of tarnished steel. Slowly they lower their lances as the Baron speeds nearer and nearer. With a last defiant cry of anger, the Baron and his horse smash headlong into the line. There is a sickening screech of buckling metal and rearing horses, then the Baron reappears, hoisted into the air, impaled on the tip of King Sarnac's lance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain smiles. Then he looks over your shoulder and nods to the owner. You hear a thin squeak followed by a rush of air as the crossbow bolt hurtles towards your back. Your Kai senses scream a warning and you respond by flattening yourself to the table. A look of abject terror barely has time to register on the captain's face before the speeding missile embeds itself between his startled eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>Get him!</quote> screams the owner, and three stocky drinkers rush forward with short swords held ready to strike. The first attacker loses his sword and the hand that holds it. As he reels back, screaming, the others exchange a fearful glance and halt in their tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to advance and attack them, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you decide to try to escape from the log tavern, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your Magnakai skill on the lumbering reptile and command it to retreat. It halts and raises its horned head, its hungry eyes regarding you with suspicion. Then, with a snort of disdain, it turns and crawls back into the tall grass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144"><link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Meet your doom, Eruan scum!</quote> he sneers, as he strides across the square, his fearsome axe raised to strike. You lift the Sommerswerd and level it at his head; the blade shimmers gold as the sunlight catches upon its tip and charges it with power. A flicker of doubt passes across the Baron's eyes, but he shrugs aside his fear and continues to advance. With a roar like a howling gale the blade of his axe is transformed into a mass of scarlet flame that reeks of sulphurous decay.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description><quote>Meet your doom, Eruan scum!</quote> he sneers,<br />his fearsome axe raised to strike</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="610" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="610" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Baron Shinzar (with Ogg-kor-kaggaz)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Intoxicated by the power of the weapon he wields, the Baron is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">You may evade combat after three rounds; <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect300">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see a dank dungeon cell and a prisoner sitting cross-legged on the cold stone floor. His dark skin is covered with tiny scars and his plaited flaxen hair is matted with grime and dried blood. Wearily he raises his head and his sharp cat-like eyes glint in the torchlight. At once you recognize his distinctive features: he is a Vakeros, a native warrior-magician of Dessi.</p>
- <p>You step back to examine the lock and notice that the key to this cell is hanging on a hook beside the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to open the cell and release the prisoner, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you decide to ignore him and continue, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prince Graygor's voice rings out above the din of battle as he orders the Palace Guard to charge the pikemen. The ground shakes beneath the pounding of the horse's hooves as they gather speed, their pennons streaming from their levelled lances. The Drakkarim huddle shoulder to shoulder and nervously dig the butts of their pikes into the hillside to steady their shaky hands. The knights reach the hill. They thunder up the slope. A blaze of lightning hurtles from the top of the temple but it is mistimed: it crackles harmlessly over their heads and explodes behind them, hurling nothing but scorched earth into the sky. The Prince screams his battle-cry and the knights slam into the Drakkarim with a deafening roar. Men and metal howl in agony as the heavy horses break like a wave against the wall of pikes. You see a rider lifted out of his saddle on the point of a pike, and a ramp of black metal suddenly appears where a score of Drakkarim have been trampled into the ground. The Prince and a dozen of his bravest knights break through and gallop on towards the temple, but the Drakkarim quickly close ranks and seal the gap. The remaining Palace Guard are forced to a halt and engage the pikemen in fierce hand-to-hand combat.</p>
- <p>You reach the hill and leap over the steel-clad bodies that litter the slope. As you near the melee you see two Drakkarim rushing towards you from the side, their axes raised to hack you down. <quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, and turn to face their attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swirling mists draw in towards the marble block. They grow darker as they merge into a solid shape that resembles a huge, sabre-toothed jackal with smooth cream-coloured skin. Ice sheens on his muscular body and wisps of black smoke curl from his snuffling snout. Roark and his followers throw themselves to their knees and praise the creature devoutly. He responds by lowering his glowing eyes and regarding them with disdain.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A huge, sabre-toothed jackal with cream-coloured<br />skin regards them with disdain</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="666" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="666" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Why do you summon me here?</quote> he says, his voice deep and rasping. But before Roark can offer a reply, the Demonlord swivels his head in your direction and emits a fearful snarl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bear looks down at you kindly and raises its bloodstained paw. Gently it hooks a razor-sharp claw under the strap of your backpack and lifts you to your feet. Having just witnessed the power and ferocity of the creature, you are amazed at how tame it has become under the influence of your Kai mastery. Suddenly something in the air disturbs him and you sense that he wants to leave this place, and he wants you to follow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you wish to follow the bear, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If not, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant screams an order and his men lunge forward, hoping to skewer you with their long straight swords. Coolly you parry their first attack and retreat just far enough to prevent them from getting behind you. With a yell of anger and frustration, the sergeant urges his men to attack you once more.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Partisan Horsemen</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">You can evade combat after two rounds of fighting; <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and let it fly at the leading creature. It pierces its hairless skull and sends it reeling into the bushes. The others gurgle their displeasure and fix you with their murderous black eyes as they make ready to rush forward and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Krorn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">33</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hoarse cries of soldiers and the blare of war trumpets announce preparations for an assault across the causeway. Armoured infantry gather in a spearhead formation and wait for the order to advance towards a wall of logs and earth, which has been thrown up to protect the vanguard troops dug in on the causeway itself. These warriors scuttle about behind their ramparts, holding arched wooden shields over their bent backs to protect them against the arrows raining down from the battlements. The iron gate stands less than fifty yards from their position, and this approach is heaped with the bodies of those who have fallen during previous assaults.</p>
- <p>You accompany Lord Adamas as he makes his way through the massed ranks of infantry and enters a trench which zig-zags towards the causeway. He stops at a log-lined hollow dug out of the trench wall and speaks with a captain who is lying there nursing a broken arm. The wounded officer hands him his leather satchel, and Adamas continues along the trench until he reaches the centre of the causeway. There you both take cover with the vanguard and peer through a slit in the log wall at the formidable entrance to Torgar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinct saves you from sudden death. You twist aside to avoid the speeding shaft and it grazes your shoulder: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. But your enemy is now determined that you should die and hastily he reloads his bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to dive for cover among the ruins, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to evade the sniper by running along an alley to your left, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the horsemen catch sight of you they unsheathe their swords and bring their steeds to a halt. Their leader dismounts and approaches you with trepidation, his gleaming steel blade held ready in case of trickery. With nervous eyes he studies your travel-stained tunic while his men scour the surrounding hills.</p>
- <p><quote>What's your regiment, soldier?</quote> he demands gruffly. You return his strong stare and notice that he and his men are wearing red and grey surcoats embroidered with the emblem of an open hand. The only horsemen who wear this livery are the cavalry of Talestria.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to tell the officer that you are an Eruan Pathfinder, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you decide to tell him that you are a Sommlending Kai Lord, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you choose not to answer him at all, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The jump is made more hazardous by a tangle of trees and roots that cover the far side of the chasm. However, these obstacles do offer a secure anchor for a rope.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have a rope and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If not, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you move through the shallow sludge of water and mud, hidden by the bank of the ditch from the watchful eyes of the Drakkarim sentries. Beyond the ditch the ground rises to a low wall, which encircles a field of cultivated trees. It is an apple orchard and it is full of enemy soldiers, huddled around their campfires or asleep beneath the fruit-laden branches. Beyond the orchard lies an expanse of open grassland covered with tents and makeshift paddocks full of horses. Here then are Baron Shinzar's reinforcements&emdash;over 600 cavalry newly arrived from Blackshroud. You commit every detail to memory before leaving the ditch and making your way back stealthily to the allies' camp.</p>
- <p>The King and Prince Graygor praise the success of your scouting mission: the information you have gathered is of vital importance to their battle plans. The Prince senses that you are tired and orders his heralds to escort you back to his headquarters and prepare a comfortable bed for you. After the long day's march and the exertions of your scouting mission, you accept gratefully the chance of a good night's sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your journey northwards through the Moggador Forest is a long and tiring trek that is fraught with danger. Roving bands of Krorn and packs of savage timber wolves demand that you remain vigilant at all times, and as you venture deeper into their vast domain, you feel your sense of time gradually slipping away. Your only consolation on this long and lonely trek is that wild game is plentiful and you experience no shortage of food.</p>
- <p>On the morning of your ninth day in the forest you notice that the grey pines are beginning to thin out and the ground is becoming dusty and sparsely vegetated. Soon you come upon a road constructed of broken stones which leaves the forest and disappears into a barren landscape of yellow sulphurous soil. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and it confirms your suspicions: you have reached the foothills of the Nadulritzaga Mountains and are now less that twenty miles from the fortress of Torgar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect126-1-foot" idref="sect126-1">
- <p>You must win the combat before continuing.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Baron Shinzar snarls an order and the Krorn pack moves towards you. They are not as tall as their leader but almost twice as broad, with arms like branches of a twisted tree that hang down below their knees. Awkwardly they shuffle on short bow legs, their gnarled skin shiny like knotted leather. A shiver runs down your spine as you recall what you have heard about these creatures&emdash;that they delight in eating their foes&emdash;but as they draw nearer you dismiss such thoughts and prepare for combat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Krorn pack shuffle towards you on short bow legs,<br />their gnarled skin shiny like knotted leather</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="602" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="602" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Krorn Pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you win the combat and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If the fight lasts longer than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.<a id="sect126-1" idref="sect126-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A short distance from Lord Adamas's tent stands a wooden watchtower, constructed by his army engineers, which offers an unobstructed view of the causeway and the great gate of Torgar. As you reach the top of its rickety ladder and step on to the platform beside the Lord Constable, he recounts the events that have led to the siege of this city-fortress.</p>
- <p>Following his victory over the Ogians and the destruction of Xanar, Adamas led the allied armies of Bor, Talestria and Palmyrion along the Blackshroud Trail in pursuit of the shattered enemy. When they reached the Agna-kor-kuzim, the <quote>road of slaves</quote>, the army of Bor was detached and sent to assail Blackshroud from the east, while the bulk of the allied forces marched north towards Torgar. When Talestria was overrun in the early days of the war, thousands of her people were taken as slaves and imprisoned here in this fortress. Lord Adamas had sworn that one day he would free them and he was determined to fulfil his pledge.</p>
- <p>During the march north, a great battle was fought near the wastelands of Zuttezna, against two Giak armies led by Darklord Kraagenskûl and Darklord Chlanzor. Both were soundly defeated by the allies and sent back to Cragmantle to lick their wounds. Although victorious at Zuttezna, the allies had suffered heavy losses and Adamas feared they would be too weak to storm Torgar. He was too far from his homeland for reinforcements to reach him swiftly, and there was the growing threat that the Darklords would muster their troops in Tanoz and Mozgôar and attack again. Faced with this grave dilemma he decided to risk an assault on Torgar.</p>
- <p><quote>We have means to breach their iron gate,</quote> he says, staring purposefully at the great door of Torgar. <quote>The Elder Magi have given us a device that will reduce it to twisted scrap, and when we march through that portal and free our people, we shall have all the reinforcements we need.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The clasp that secures the amulet to the black chain around Tagazin's neck is a riveted link of iron. To break this link you must strike a blow that will destroy the rivet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the weapon you are using is a dagger or a quarterstaff, deduct 3 from the number you have picked. If the weapon you are using is an axe or a mace, add 1 to the number. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push open the tower door with your foot and a splash of morning sunlight illuminates the gloomy interior. Slowly the man raises his weather-browned face and a smile softens his craggy features as he recognizes the uniform you are wearing.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Pathfinder,</quote> he says, his thick Eruan accent echoing around the empty stone chamber. <quote>I am Halgar of Pirsi. Come and share my humble feast in celebration of our victory over the Drakkarim.</quote></p>
- <p>He splits the roasted bird in two and tosses half to you. It tastes delicious. <quote>I saw you approaching,</quote> he says, wiping away the grease from his mouth with the back of a calloused hand, <quote>and I wagered you would stop to breakfast here. Where are you bound?</quote></p>
- <p>You hesitate to answer, but your basic Kai sixth sense tells you that this man is no trickster. <quote>I'm riding to Pirsi. I've orders to contact Sebb Jarel,</quote> you reply, hoping he will offer to tell you where the partisan leader may be found. Halgar narrows his sea-green eyes and strokes his chin thoughtfully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the lock and recognize its simple latch mechanism.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you possess a dagger, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you possess neither this skill nor this weapon, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take aim at an archer just as he raises his bow to fire at you. Your shaft beats his: it buries itself in his chest and sends him spinning to the ground. Quickly you note that of the five men advancing towards you two are armed with bows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you have at least two arrows in your quiver and wish to fire at these men, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to try to escape by crossing the ford, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you decide to shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The men glare at you uncertainly. <quote>If you've come here to kill me,</quote> says the pretender, <quote>you've come on a suicide mission.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly the five rise to their feet and step away from the fire, their hands drifting casually towards the hilts of their swords. On a whispered cue they unsheathe their blades and attack you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Partisans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect23">You can evade combat at any time; <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the Sommerswerd and hold the shimmering blade before your face. The phantoms give a ghastly shriek as its golden light scorches the unnatural fabric of their forms. Unused to the sensation of pain, they recoil but they do not disperse or abandon their attack. Their need to feed on your life-force overcomes their fear of your sword. With a terrifying howl of anger they swirl around you and swoop down to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cener Ghosts</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These undead beings are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Remember to double all <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses sustained by the enemy due to the power of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dig your heels into the flanks of your horse but he reacts sluggishly: his senses have been dulled by the heady aroma of the flowers and he has barely enough strength to canter. A whirring sound fills your ears and instinctively you flatten yourself against the horse's neck as the sound grows louder. A bolas, three solid metal balls connected by strong cords tied together in the shape of a letter <quote>Y</quote>, skims your scalp and smashes into the base of the gorge. Frantically you urge your horse onwards, but he stumbles and his forelegs buckle beneath him. You are thrown forward and concussed as your head hits the ground: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess a Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inch by inch you climb the sheer rock wall, transferring your weight from one hollow to the next with painstaking care. The higher you climb, the more you have to support yourself solely with your fingers until, at last, you reach up and take hold of a trailing mass of tree roots, which are strong enough to hold your weight. With great effort you haul yourself out of the chasm and collapse into the undergrowth: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As soon as your strength returns, you check your equipment and advance deeper into the eerie forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knights tramp past your hiding place and hurry out of the chamber. Paido breathes a sigh of relief as the sound of their heavy footfalls is quickly lost in the noise of the alarm bell; but only when you are sure you are alone do you leave your hiding place and approach the triangular doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the hill the Drakkarim are beginning to falter; they are no match for the Palace Guard, the cream of the Eruan army. As their casualties escalate their line crumbles and suddenly they turn to flee in disarray towards the town. An explosion rumbles across the field and a billowing cloud of black smoke rises from the temple. Your stomach churns and you fear the worst as smoke and debris pour from the ruins like an erupting volcano. Then, as quickly as it began, the eruption subsides and the smoke clears to reveal a triumphant Prince Graygor, clutching the Eruan flag and exhorting his troops to victory. The Palace Guard have captured the hill, and the sorcery that threatened to destroy them has been smashed. But from where you stand you can see a new threat fast approaching the Prince and his men, a threat that could kill them all.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With breathtaking speed you clear the rampart and reach the stunned Adamas. Rocks continue to crash down but you ignore the danger as you drag the injured lord to safety with just one second to spare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your psychic energy and launch a pulse of psi-power at his mind. He staggers backwards, his mailed fists clenched to the sides of his black helm as your attack rakes his nervous system. But he is inured to pain. His years of training in the combat pits of Blackshroud have tempered his nerves so that he can withstand agonies that would destroy an ordinary man. He regains his balance and raises his spear to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to stand and fight this warrior, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you choose to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a week of trekking across difficult terrain, the firm surface of the hill track feels as smooth as a mirror beneath your aching feet. By noon you have put ten miles behind you, and have reached a bridge which crosses a sickly yellow stream flowing down from the surrounding hills. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are about to continue your journey across the bridge when you hear a rumble of hoofbeats and see a group of horsemen, shrouded in dust, riding along the road towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, you can either wait for these riders to reach you; <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">Or hide beneath the bridge; <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bore-hole is cramped and you can progress only by crawling along on your hands and knees. A gentle breeze stirs the dust at the base of the shaft and a faint glow in the distance sheds just enough light for you to be able to see your way ahead. Gradually the slope becomes steeper and you are forced to climb a crude staircase formed by jagged outcrops of rock. Above you see a strip of daylight and it draws you upward with its promise of escape.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you climb nearer to the opening you hear a hissing sound off to your right. Instantly you freeze as you catch sight of a black serpent, its jaw open and its venomous fangs glinting in the gloom of a hollow. It is coiled upon a nest of eggs less than an arm's length from your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to ignore the snake and continue your climb, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you decide to retreat along the bore-hole and attempt to climb the chasm wall instead, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes several minutes to pick the lock using your dagger, and in doing so you snap the tip off and ruin the blade: delete this weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The door opens on to a passageway lined with torches. Halfway along the left wall you see another door&emdash;a solid slab of iron broken only by a small, barred window. Silently you approach it and peer in through the grille.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you have visited the Danarg in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If not, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior stoops to snatch up the shimmering rod but the Prince leaps forward and kicks it from his grasp. His action costs him dearly, for when his foot touches the stave a blast of searing flame scorches his leg and hurls him backwards to the ground. You rush forward and block the warrior's attempt to scurry after his weapon. Cursing vilely, he snatches a dagger from his belt and launches himself at your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ziran</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">33</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>That night you make camp in a stone hut. It is little better than a hovel but at least it provides shelter from the rain, which begins to fall shortly after dark and is still falling when you set off again at dawn. The dull grey hours pass uneventfully until the wooded shoreline gradually gives way to a wilderness of slime-laden mud flats and twisted, petrified trees. Here the current is weak and you are forced to row in order to make progress through the brown, scum-flecked water. Jarel sits at the prow, his wolfskin cloak drawn close around his shoulders to keep out the chill rain. He stares fixedly ahead as he guides you through the narrow channels that bisect this evil-smelling swamp. Twice you find yourselves caught in watery cul-de-sacs and have to retrace your course, but as the light begins to fade you catch sight of an island that promises firm mooring and a place to camp overnight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Halgar falls heavily to his knees, the blood oozing thickly between his fingers as life deserts him. With a gurgling croak he stiffens and drops sideways into the fire, smothering the embers and filling the air with the smell of scorched leather. At your feet lies the cruelly fashioned Bullwhip, and nearby you discover a backpack. Flicking open the buckle, you tip the contents out on to the grimy stone floor. The pack contains the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Leather Pouch containing 36 lune (9 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Torch</li>
- <li>Tinder Box</li>
- <li>Bottle of Water</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may keep any or all of these items. If you decide to keep the Bullwhip, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>Set into the floor you discover a wooden trapdoor that gives access to an empty cellar. You hide the body in the cellar before remounting your horse, crossing the bridge and continuing your ride to Pirsi.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The smell of their blood makes your stomach heave, but your grim labour does not go unrewarded. Inside the bushes you discover their catch of fish. There are enough speckled trout here for 5 Meals. If you take any of the fish remember to record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">To cross the river and continue, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With terrifying ease the Demonlord throws open the stone door, which splits asunder as it slams against the temple wall. You release your arrow and send it burrowing deep into the creature's chest. The Demonlord laughs mockingly and plucks the shaft from his body as if it were no more of an irritation than a tiny splinter. No blood oozes from the wound and the puncture seals itself quickly to leave no mark on the creamy skin of the supernatural creature.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender yourself, mortal!</quote> he commands. <quote>And I shall spare you the agonies of death.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Both you and the Lencian officer, whose name is Captain Prarg, ride back and forth, rallying the few soldiers left to support the hard-pressed knights locked in battle at the bridge. A motley company of crossbowmen, halberdiers, wounded men-at-arms, wagon drivers, cooks, heralds and battle-shocked pikemen are finally assembled, and they march forward with their shields raised and their weapons poised.</p>
- <p>On your left, the Prince's reserves respond to a signal from the hill and advance to support their leader. On your right, massed ranks of Lencian spearmen are locked in pitched combat the length of the orchard wall. As you near the bridge you encounter the bodies of those slain by the crackling rays of electric fire. The sight of their tortured forms, weapons fused in their lifeless hands, sends a wave of shock through your company. <quote>Forward men!</quote> shouts Captain Prarg. <quote>Raise your eyes and advance!</quote></p>
- <p>The bridge looms out of the battle-smoke ahead and your men surge towards the macabre struggle taking place. The bodies of the dead lie six deep, covering the whole area of the approach and filling the ditch on either side. War-cries roar with harsh anger and the air is alive with the clangour of striking steel and the howl of violent death.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A Drakkarim Death Knight draws back his weapon<br />and prepares to strike at your neck</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="586" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="586" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Charge!</quote> you shout, and the company pours across the bridge. Reinforced by fresh troops, the knights finally break through the barricade and into the streets beyond. The struggle grows ever more intense as the Drakkarim defenders throw themselves into the fray with total disregard for their lives. One such defender, an élite Drakkarim Death Knight, hacks his way through the leading pikemen and slays your horse with one terrible blow of his two-handed axe. As you fall, he draws back his weapon, its razor-sharp blade trailing scarlet spray, and prepares to strike at your neck.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Death Knight</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to his state of battle-frenzy, your enemy is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you win the combat <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow grazes one of the magicians and thuds into the shield of a Drakkarim warrior standing behind him. The wound is superficial and it does not prevent the magician from hurling his sphere at the Palmyrions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foot knights of Lencia are the first to go forward, their densely packed columns marching in perfect order towards the bridge at the centre of the enemy line. As they come within range there is a sound like rushing water and a cloud of black arrows pours down on their armoured ranks. Huge gaps appear in the line and the columns seem to sway under the impact before continuing the assault. They are flanked to the south by crossbowmen, who are firing their weapons as they advance. Unlike the knights, they wear very little armour and over half their number are felled by arrows when they halt to reload their cumbersome bows. The survivors retreat, taking cover among the massed ranks of Lencian spearmen who are advancing towards the orchard.</p>
- <p>Prince Graygor signals to his pikemen and men-at-arms to support the Lencian knights, who are engaged in a bitter hand-to-hand fight at the stone bridge. They are within 100 yards of the bridge when a crackling ray of electric fire sweeps down from the ruins of the temple. It rips through their packed ranks with devastating effect, blasting the pikemen high into the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin or more <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you have neither of these skills, or have yet to reach these levels of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The officer shrugs his shoulders and climbs back on to his horse. <quote>He's probably an outlaw or a deserter from the Eruan army,</quote> he says to his men. <quote>Either way we must ride on; we've wasted too much time here already.</quote></p>
- <p>He spurs his horse forward and you are forced to leap aside as the riders surge across the bridge and disappear along the road that leads to the Moggador Forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain nods to the owner. You hear a click followed by a rush of air as the crossbow bolt hurtles towards your back. Your senses scream a warning and you respond by hurling yourself on to the floor. A look of terror barely has time to register on the captain's face before the speeding missile embeds itself between his startled eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>Get him!</quote> shouts the owner, and three stocky drinkers rush forward with short swords held ready to strike. The first attacker loses his sword and the hand that holds it. As he reels back, screaming, the others exchange a fearful glance and halt in their tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to advance and attack them, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to try to escape from the log tavern, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrows screech past on all sides but your lightning reactions save you and your mount from their merciless bite. You dig in your heels, urging your horse on towards the ford, but as you are about to enter the shallows an arrow buries itself deep in your horse's neck. He shrieks in pain and crashes to his knees, hurling you into the river. You gulp a mouthful of the icy water and struggle to your feet, coughing and cursing, just in time to see your ambushers pour out of the nearest hut and advance towards you. Some are reloading their bows as they run.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to try to escape by wading across the ford, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a jolt at the edge of the chasm, but the soil is dry and flaky and disintegrates on impact. Frantically you make a grab for a tangle of roots and hold fast as your legs swing wildly in the void. But the weight and violent movement of your body proves more than the roots can withstand. They tear loose and you tumble backwards into the chasm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257"><link-text>Turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach a square near the centre of the town where a unit of enemy reserves are gathered, awaiting the order to join the battle. They are Krorn&emdash;hideous-looking creatures from the Moggador and Akamazim forests. They are approached by a swarthy giant of a man, with a short black beard and shiny bald head, who brandishes a massive war-axe fashioned from a fiery red metal. The axe must weigh more that its wielder but he waves it above his head as if it were no heavier than a stick of wood. Judging from his features and from what you have heard during your travels through Eru, this warrior is Baron Shinzar&emdash;the enemy commander.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If not, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden calm descends on the surrounding forest as the last of the ghosts is dispelled by your attack. But the silence is soon shattered by a chilling howl that comes from somewhere deep beneath the ground. Shaken by your encounter and anxious to avoid further conflict with the evil spirits of this isle, you enter the forest and hurry away towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tell you that the man is lying: he is not the partisan leader. He repeats the question but still you hesitate to answer. You cast your eyes over each man in turn and your senses confirm your suspicions: none of these men is Sebb Jarel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to ask the mouse-like man why he is lying, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to draw a weapon and challenge him to prove his identity, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you wish to leave the cave, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior lord looks at you reproachfully, and from a pocket of his surcoat he takes out a glittering gem. <quote>The Elder Magi of Dessi have bestowed upon us generous gifts to aid our fight against the Darklands,</quote> he says, holding the gem in the palm of his hand. Then he breathes the words of an incantation and green flames dance wildly around the sparkling jewel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Just as I thought,</quote> says the sergeant, anger in his voice. <quote>This is Halgar's whip. And judging by these bloodstains I'd wager he didn't part with it gladly.</quote></p>
- <p>On hearing this, the other partisans reach for their swords and you catch the glint of murder in their eyes. You begin to explain but they refuse to listen. Instead they unsheathe their blades and encircle you slowly. (Delete the Bullwhip from your list of Special Items.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to stand your ground and fight them, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the crystal rods are generating a powerful charge of negative energy. The Lorestones are being bombarded with this energy in the hope that eventually it will destroy them. If you are to retrieve the Lorestones safely you must first shut off this power. However, by doing so, you would remove the means by which they are being kept suspended in the air, and they would then fall into the pit.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You ponder the problem for several minutes before you hit upon a solution.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your much improved Kai skills, you disappear into the forest, leaving no trace of your passing. Even the smell of your blood is masked by your ability to secrete neutralizing oils through the pores of your skin which act as a chemical camouflage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Death Knights falls dead at your feet, you clamber over the corpses and run towards the stairs. Paido arms himself with a Drakkar sword and follows as you pound up the steps towards the two triangular doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Majestically the Palace Guard advance across the field of battle, their lances raised like the spines of a steel porcupine, their scarlet and yellow pennons streaming behind them in the wind. The enemy shower them with a rain of arrows, yet the Eruans seemingly ignore these deadly shafts and continue undeterred. It is not until they reach the ditch that the constant bowfire begins to abrade their ranks. However, it does little to slow their pace as the Prince gives the order to charge. The knights level their lances as they reach the bottom of the hill. Above them a regiment of Drakkarim pikemen brace themselves to receive the attack and a blaze of lightning hurtles down from the temple wall. You wince as it streaks down the hill, but miraculously it misses its intended target and explodes near the ditch, hurling nothing but scorched mud and the bodies of those already slain into the sky.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="82" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="82" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The Prince's battle-cry rings out and his knights slam into the Drakkarim to break like a wave against their wall of pikes. The Prince and a small group of his stoutest guardsmen break through and gallop on towards the temple whilst the remaining knights engage in fierce hand-to-hand combat. The Prince and his group reach the temple and you see them dismount and enter the ruins. Such bravery stirs your admiration, for they know the deadly danger that lurks there, yet they confront it unflinchingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow screams towards a magician and shatters the sphere clasped in his claw-like hand. There is a brilliant flash as it explodes, scattering fragments that hiss like a host of fiery snakes among the Drakkarim. The second magician drops his sphere setting off another explosion. The Drakkarim scream in pain and terror as the fragments burn everything they touch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You muster all your willpower and strength to drag yourself from under your dead horse and, after clawing the muck from your eyes, you crawl along the ditch. Just ahead you see a Palace Guard in a similar predicament to yourself. However, not only is he pinned beneath his dead mount, but his head is buried in the mud and he is slowly suffocating to death. He is thrashing his arms wildly in desperation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to save his life by pulling him out from beneath his horse, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you prefer to ignore his plight and look instead for a new horse, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you decide to climb out of the ditch and follow the Prince's attack on foot, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water laps at your waist as you wade through the shallows, and the shouts and howls of your ambushers ring relentlessly in your ears. Arrows splash beside you or whistle past dangerously close. You are three-quarters of the way across when one shaft clips your neck and knocks you underwater.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 = 10). If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 2 from the number you have picked. The resulting figure equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost as a result of the wound.</p>
- <p>If you survive the wounding, you reach the opposite shore and escape into the Moggador Forest on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slump forward in the saddle, your eyelids half closed, your body possessed of a creeping fatigue that robs you of all will to resist the potent scent. The vibrant colours swirl before your eyes and then fade as gradually you lose consciousness and tumble to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess a Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not have this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tiny nuggets of copper woven into the braids of the Bullwhip begin to glow with a strange yellow light.</p>
- <p>You tug it free from your pack and the phantoms give a ghastly shriek as the yellow rays scorch their unnatural forms. Unused to the sensation of pain, they recoil and take shelter in the shadows.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="102" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="102" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The presence of the phantoms has triggered a spell that was cast upon the whip long ago by a former owner. Whenever the Bullwhip comes into contact with undead beings, it protects its owner by radiating a power that is abhorrent to them.</p>
- <p>The phantoms retreat but they do not disperse or abandon their attack. Their need to feed on your life-force overcomes their fear of the whip and with a terrifying howl of anger they swoop out of the trees and strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cener Ghosts</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the power of the whip, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water around the boat is stained a sickly green with the blood of the Ciquali that you have slain. However, two of the creatures have survived your murderous counter-attack and have slunk beneath the bow. Suddenly there is a loud crack as a sharpened wooden stake rips through the timbers close by your feet, and a fountain of water gushes from the hole. The boat tilts violently and both you and Jarel are pitched headlong into the murky river.</p>
- <p>With the bloodstained water stinging your eyes, you strike out blindly in the hope of reaching the bank before you fall foul of your attackers. Cold and shaken, you eventually reach the south bank and drag yourself on to the muddy shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226"><link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The last of your attackers screams and falls backwards into the fire, smothering the flames and plunging the cavern into darkness. Seconds later the curtain that covers the entrance is whipped aside and in stride two partisan guards, their spears poised ready to thrust. They are blinded by the unexpected darkness and you have no difficulty slipping past them and escaping along the passage.</p>
- <p>At the exit from the cave you notice a patrol of partisan horsemen arriving at the camp. They dismount, tether their horses to some bushes and walk wearily towards the main campfire. Seeing an opportunity to escape, you rush towards the bushes and snatch the reins of the nearest mount. Suddenly a cry echoes from the cave: the guards are raising the alarm. You climb into the saddle but your escape is blocked by a partisan horseman who is riding up the narrow track that leads into the camp.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Partisan Horseman</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I cannot send him,</quote> says the Prince, uncomfortably. <quote>He is needed elsewhere. We must send another to gather the information we need.</quote></p>
- <p>The King looks displeased but rather than argue with his ally on the eve of battle, he sends instead for one of his horse scouts. The Prince breathes a quiet sigh of relief before ordering you to return to his headquarters.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the lumbering reptile draws near, your first reaction is to run for the safety of the stone hut, but you are prevented from doing so by the sticky, knee-deep mud. The scaly creature raises its horned snout and emits a long, croaking growl as the scent of fear wafts towards it on the breeze. Jarel unsheathes his sword and moves to your side as the monster begins its attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The scaly Gorodon lumbers towards you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="623" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="623" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Gorodon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Halve any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> losses you sustain during this combat as half of the creature's attacks are directed at Jarel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just as you catch up with your men, a mass of leather-clad Hammerlanders emerge from the cottages, rending the air with their howling battle-cries. They strike from every side, catching you like helpless fish in a barrel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to stand and fight your attackers, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to try to escape from this ambush, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Long, curved talons extend from his hairless paws and with terrifying ease he throws open the stone door, which splits asunder as it slams against the temple wall.</p>
- <p><quote>Surrender yourself, mortal!</quote> he commands, his eyes glowing with a supernatural fire. <quote>And I shall spare you the agonies of death.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For two hours you stumble through the forest until fatigue finally catches up with you. Exhausted, you stop and crouch down, with your back against the trunk of a gnarled pine and your knees drawn up to your chin (you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Unable to resist any longer, you close your eyes and drift off into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295"><link-text>Turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before leaving Luomi, the Prince gives you a Signet Ring that bears his royal crest (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; you need not discard another Special Item in favour of this ring if you already carry the maximum of twelve items). By wearing the ring on your right hand you signify that you have the friendship of the royal court, something that may prove valuable when trying to persuade Sebb Jarel to aid you in your quest.</p>
- <p>You exchange farewells with Prince Graygor, before checking your equipment and setting off on the dusty road to Pirsi. The road itself is little better than a dirt track that cuts across open grassland towards a wide, muddy river. Awkward heaps of grey stone dot the unkempt landscape: they are the deserted ruins of farmsteads and houses destroyed during the Drakkarim occupation.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>After an hour in the saddle you arrive at the river at a point where a wide stone bridge spans its murky waters. A fire-blackened watchtower and a roofless stone hut stand at the approach to the bridge. You notice a faint wisp of wood smoke rising from the top of the tower and a saddled horse grazing close by at the river's edge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you wish to stop and investigate the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you prefer to cross the bridge and continue, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect177-1-foot" idref="sect177-1">
- <p>Kika are a form of currency used in the Darklands and the Drakkarim nations. Each coin is worth one-tenth of a Gold Crown and ten Kika take up the same space as one Gold Crown in your Belt Pouch.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>His body rolls down the stairs and comes to rest in an undignified heap near the bottom. You are loath to touch him but he may possess some useful items. Gritting your teeth you pull him over on to his back, empty his pockets and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Black Key (Backpack Item)</li>
- <li>200 <a id="sect177-1" idref="sect177-1-foot" class="footnote">Kika</a> (20 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take whatever items you wish but remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">To continue your exploration, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your blow is strong and deadly accurate. It lays open the wolf's chest and cleaves its heart in two, sending the beast crashing into the dense undergrowth amid the spray of its own foul blood.</p>
- <p>Breathless with exertion and fearful of what may still be lurking unseen in the shadows, you gather up your equipment and follow Jarel. He is anxious to get away from the dead wolves before the smell of their blood attracts more of their kind, or worse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The road winds upwards through the arid hills until it reaches a ridge of yellow rock. You climb to the crest of the ridge and catch your first awe-inspiring glimpse of Torgar.</p>
- <p>The walls of this grim city-fortress stand upon the brink of a ravine cut deep by centuries of rushing water. A natural causeway of stone spans the dark chasm and provides the only means of approaching Torgar from the south. It has an enviable position and its defences seem impregnable. It commands the only road into the barren land of Ghatan, and any who dare travel that road must pass over the causeway and through the city's great iron gate.</p>
- <p>In the past there have been few who would venture willingly to Torgar, but now the causeway and its approaches swarm with such men. They are the soldiers of Talestria and Palmyrion, and they have come with their engines of war to lay siege to this grim Drakkar fortress.</p>
- <p>Less than a mile from the ridge stands a cluster of tents, perched on top of a hillock which overlooks the siege-works. As you approach them a group of knights appears from the largest tent and command you to halt. One of them, an officer, recognizes the uniform you wear and bids you enter the tent to meet his commander. All of the knights are armed and you decide it prudent not to refuse the officer's request.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you have ever visited the land of Talestria in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If not, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the shadows and aim a mighty blow at the Death Knight's head. But in spite of the speed of your attack and the encumbrance of his heavy armour, the warrior manages to turn aside your blow with the tip of his spear.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Death Knight</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The warrior is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you win the fight in two rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you win the fight in three rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track consists of ancient paving blocks mostly overgrown with moss, but occasionally you hear the sound of a distant hoofbeat striking upon an exposed slab of stone. You follow the trail and are soon engulfed by darkness. Only the sound of forest owls and the flutter of bats can be heard as you make your way slowly through the inky black forest.</p>
- <p>You have been walking less than an hour when you arrive at a stone bridge. The stream it once crossed has long since dried up, and the empty watercourse is blanketed with dead leaves. You are now very tired and in need of food and rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to stop and rest here at the bridge, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you decide to forego rest and continue along the track, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sharp pain lances through your neck and shoulder as the serpent sinks its fangs into the side of your throat. It thrashes wildly but you manage to grip it behind its head, prise it loose from your flesh and fling it down the bore-hole. A sudden wave of nausea leaves you shaking with fear as the deadly venom begins to take effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Mentora, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Primate, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain either of these levels of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a splash and roll into the ditch to avoid being trampled by the following horses. After clawing the muck from your eyes, you crawl along the channel. A short distance ahead of you a knight is pinned beneath his dead horse. He is flailing his arms wildly and you can see that his head is trapped beneath the mud and he is slowly drowning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you wish to save his life by pulling him out from beneath his horse, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose to ignore his plight, you can remount your own horse; <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">Or you can follow the Prince's attack on foot; <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The yells of the Drakkarim echo along the battlements as they watch you sprinting towards the city. Then a rain of boulders slams down with terrific force, spraying you with splinters of stone as they disintegrate on impact. Your senses keep you safe as instinctively you dodge the falling rocks and then skid to a halt in front of the door. You plant and prime the crystal explosive, and run back, counting the seconds with every step. You clear the rampart on the count of seven and flatten yourself behind its protective wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301"><link-text>Turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At your approach, one of the partisan horsemen points at the Bullwhip fastened to your backpack and says something to his sergeant.</p>
- <p><quote>That's a fine whip you have there, Pathfinder,</quote> says the sergeant, as you bring your horse to a halt. <quote>I admire good craftsmanship. Would you mind if I examined it more closely?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you wish to show the sergeant your Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you refuse to let him examine it, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ground rises steeply and it is dusk before your climb ends at the crest of a ridge overlooking the grasslands of Northern Eru. In less than an hour it will be dark, so you decide to camp here on the ridge and continue at first light (you must now eat a meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You are settling down on a mattress of leaf mould when the howl of a timber wolf prompts you to abandon your soft bed and spend the night in the bough of a tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe a hand weapon and crouch in readiness to receive the creature's attack. It howls, almost with glee, as it anticipates sinking its great yellow fangs into your unprotected throat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Taintor Wolf howls as it anticipates sinking its<br />great yellow fangs into your unprotected throat</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="670" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="670" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Taintor Wolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">49</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you win and the fight last for four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the fight lasts longer than four rounds, do not continue but instead <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mustering your strength and your psychic defences, you concentrate on repelling Roark's attack. Immediately, the icy chill that threatens to freeze your heart begins to thaw, and you feel warmth flowing along your arm towards the iron amulet clenched in your fist. Suddenly Roark screams with pain and collapses&emdash;he has fallen victim to his own attack. You have reversed the flow of energy and stopped his heart.</p>
- <p>Using this energy, you turn to confront Tagazin. He shudders as your psychic commands rob him of his supernatural strength. His body becomes pale, almost transparent, and wisps of smoke curl from his skin as if his body were slowly evaporating. He retreats towards the centre of the temple and leaps on to the marble block. There is a chilling howl and suddenly the shadowy chamber is flooded with blinding light. Thunder booms and the walls shake. Terrified, Roark's followers flee through the shattered doors and scramble up the stairs. Crackling bolts of white lightning leap from the block to tear chunks of rock from the temple walls, and the air seethes with a cloying stench that threatens to suffocate you. With terror in your heart you bound up the steps and escape as the defeated spirit of the Demonlord vents its spite in the chamber below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Naog daka!</quote> snarls a voice in the corridor behind. You spin round to see two Drakkarim warriors, both armed with loaded crossbows. Slowly you let your hand drift towards your weapon but your move does not go unnoticed. Suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and darkness washes over your vision as you are slammed back against the door by the force of the bolt which has penetrated your skull. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are lucky that the arrows that pierced your back were neither barbed nor tipped with poison. You grit your teeth, muster your remaining strength and stagger to your feet.</p>
- <p>Fifty yards from the allies' picket line you see two Lencian men-at-arms moving towards you with their swords drawn. <quote>Give the password!</quote> they command. <quote>Give the password or perish!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to answer, <quote>Shortsword</quote>, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you wish to answer, <quote>Broadsword</quote>, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to answer, <quote>Longsword</quote>, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery alerts you to a deadly danger. The boat is being held from beneath by a group of amphibian creatures who intend to launch a surprise attack. You warn Jarel of what you sense and quietly you both unsheathe your weapons in readiness to receive their attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your inner strength to overcome the venom that is coursing through your veins. The deadly neuro-vascular poison is swiftly neutralized, but at a cost to you of 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Imposter!</quote> bellows the captain, and lunges forward to grab you by the throat. But you sidestep his attack deftly and strike a blow to his temple with the heel of your palm that renders him unconscious in an instant.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire!</quote> shouts a bull-necked Pirsian, and you throw yourself to the ground. A deafening roar reverberates through the town as the men discharge their unwieldy pistols, but the lead shot passes harmlessly over your head and buries itself in the tavern door. The noise stirs a hornet's nest of activity as the townsfolk arm themselves and rush into the street to investigate the commotion. The situation looks desperate, but you can see a chance to escape and you take it. The pistols created a huge cloud of white smoke and under cover of this acrid cloud you scurry down an alley beside the log tavern and leap headlong into the foliage and trees beyond.</p>
- <p>With the angry shouts of the villagers rippling through the forest, you curse your ill luck as you escape into the darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the language being spoken by the owners of the harsh voices&emdash;it is Krorn. A shiver runs down your spine when you recall what you have heard about the evil creatures who speak this tongue, how they delight in cruelty and love nothing better than to devour human flesh. It would be wise to avoid them, but in order to reach the ford you have to pass close by the bushes. From what little you can hear of their conversation, they are arguing over some fish they have caught. As you creep nearer you pray that their argument will keep them distracted long enough for you to reach the river unseen.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the wolf cringe as your arrow sinks feather-deep into its throat. It opens its great jaw but no howl escapes from its frightful, fang-filled mouth as it crashes nose-first into the soft forest earth, somersaults and rolls limply to a halt at your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As each rod is broken its beam disappears and the fireball grows weaker. The golden light of the Lorestones begins to radiate through the evil green flames, and when Paido has destroyed half the rods, one of them tips and falls into your waiting hands. Immediately, a wave of energy courses through your body, filling you with renewed strength and sharpening your thoughts and perceptions. You shout encouragement to your companion and he raises his head to reply, but his words are drowned by a harsh and terrible voice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You mount your horse and set off towards King Sarnac's headquarters at a gallop. On your ride you pass the survivors of the regiment who were blasted at the bridge. Deeply shocked they stand in groups or cower on the ground like frightened animals. The horror on their faces and the sound of their whimpering sickens your heart.</p>
- <p>As you cross the road and climb towards the King's tent, a Lencian cavalry officer comes riding down the hill towards you. He seems to recognize you and he calls for you to stop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to bring your horse to a halt and find out what he wants, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you choose to ignore his signal and continue your ride to King Sarnac's headquarters, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Pah!</quote> spits the sergeant, accusingly. <quote>Just as I thought. That's Halgar's whip you have&emdash;there's no other like it. I'd wager he didn't part with it gladly.</quote></p>
- <p>On hearing this, the others reach for their swords and you catch the unmistakable glint of murder in their eyes. You begin to explain but they refuse to listen. Instead they unsheathe their blades and begin to encircle you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to stand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Palmyrions are eager to attack the Drakkarim and rush forward, heedless of your warnings. The two robed figures draw back their arms and hurl the spheres at the onrushing soldiers. They hit and shatter with devastating effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Behind the black door lies a vast temple lit by a ghastly green glow, which radiates from columns of crystal that rise from the floor and ascend into the dark reaches above. Near the centre of the room sits a giant block of sculptured marble and around it stands a group of hooded men, their faces hidden behind hideous masks of glass. The dismal sound of their chanting fills the chamber and, as their leader steps forward and removes his mask, so their voices rise in pitch and fervour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you have travelled the Stornlands of Central Magnamund in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you have never been to the Stornlands, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk around the pit and soon realize that if you are to retrieve the Lorestones safely you must shut off the energy which is bombarding them. However, by doing so, you would remove the means by which they are being kept suspended in the air, and they would then fall into the pit.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You ponder the problem for several minutes before you hit upon a solution.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you step away from the dead wolf and steel yourself as Jarel cries a warning: <quote>There's another one!</quote></p>
- <p>There is a brief flash of feral eyes then the great hound charges out of the darkness and flings itself at your companion's chest. Jarel sidesteps and ducks, and the howling wolf meets with a swift death as Jarel's sword slices upwards and opens its heart.</p>
- <p>Breathless and blood-splattered, you gather up your equipment and hurry deeper into the forest before the smell of the dead wolves attracts more of their kind, or worse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282"><link-text>Turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the agony of your wounds you rise to your feet and stagger on towards the allies' camp. The arrows tear open your wounds with every jolting step you take and the terrible pain is too much to bear. With consciousness fading, you drop to your knees. The only hope you have of surviving is if you can wrench the arrows free.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, deduct 3 from the number you have picked. The remaining number equals the number of additional <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose as a result of pulling the arrows from your back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you survive the trauma of this action, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you investigate beneath the bridge, and to your relief discover that it is deserted. You are hungry and exhausted after your ordeal and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Too tired to continue, you settle down on the soft mattress of leaves and drift off into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295"><link-text>Turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You claw your way out of the bore-hole and collapse on to the damp earth that surrounds the fissure. As your energy returns, you pull yourself to your feet and try to get your bearings before venturing deeper into the eerie forest.</p>
- <p>Your wounds and the energy expended during your ordeal in the chasm have sapped your strength. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All around you the battle rages. Having lost the bridge, the Drakkarim draw together in desperate groups and attempt to throw barricades across the narrow street. While Captain Prarg rallies the pikemen and leads an attack along the main street in an effort to break through one of these hastily built defences, you gather about you a score of men and enter an alley to your left in pursuit of a handful of retreating Drakkarim Death Knights.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you do not possess this skill or have yet to reach this level of training, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly he drags himself to his feet and stumbles drunkenly towards the rampart. You shout encouragement, then suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and the taste of blood fills your mouth: you have been struck in the face by a Drakkarim arrow. It has pierced your eye and lodged itself in your brain. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you dodge aside, but the dagger gouges your neck before embedding itself in the door behind: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The man curses as he pulls free his studded leather Bullwhip and lashes out. With deadly accuracy the plaited whip snakes towards your throat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The man curses as he pulls free his studded<br />leather Bullwhip and lashes out</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="604" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="604" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Halgar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of his attack you cannot make use of a bow or evade combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swop seats with Jarel and take up the oars. The flow is much stronger here at the river mouth, but you are rested and you row with a strength and determination that overcomes the current. You have travelled over ten miles upstream when the bow rams against a submerged obstruction. The boat is near the middle of the river and you can see no obvious hazards, such as shoals or mud banks, but it is stuck fast, and no matter how hard you row you cannot free it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a shout of rage, you leap forward and strike a blow that would decapitate a creature of flesh and blood. But Tagazin is no such creature. A shower of icy-blue sparks explode where you strike his neck and your weapon disintegrates into a thousand frozen fragments: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (and remember to delete this weapon from your Action Chant).</p>
- <p>Laughing maniacally, Tagazin bares his sword-like fangs and closes in for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you possess another weapon, you can attempt to cut the amulet from around his neck; <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you decide to attack Roark and take the amulet he is holding, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your innate Kai skill of healing, you tend to the Prince's wounded leg and he soon stirs to consciousness. The Palace Guard have captured the hill and their banner flutters overhead proudly proclaiming their victory and inspiring the Lencians who are fighting at the bridge.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The Prince orders that a signal be sent to his reserves, instructing them to advance without delay, for the enemy are rallying to counter-attack. Tensely you watch as a mass of leather-clad Hammerlanders, supported by a regiment of grim-faced Brigandi, advance up the hill. The Palace Guard link their shields and prepare to welcome the enemy with sharpened steel. Onward they come, their banners held high, their war-horns filling the air with a noisy clangour. They surge forward and with a yell the front rank slams into the shield-wall. Sword blades fly, striking sparks and drawing blood. Axes and maces fall with crushing blows. A knight falls dead at your side and his slayer hurls himself through the gap. He scrambles to his feet and attacks you with his reddened blade.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hammerlander</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">31</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to his state of battle-frenzy the Hammerlander is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lord Adamas opens his hand and the coin shows <quote>tails</quote>&emdash;you have guessed correctly. <quote>Very well,</quote> he says, unbuckling his cumbersome sword belt and shouldering the satchel which contains the crystal explosive. <quote>Wish me luck!</quote></p>
- <p>He orders the vanguard to provide covering fire with their crossbows, then he clambers over the rampart and sprints towards the Torgar gate.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A numbing chill leaves you shivering uncontrollably as a surge of psychic energy rips into the fabric of your mind: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The attack soon passes but your fear grows as you watch the jackal-like Demonlord leap from the marble block and come bounding towards the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If not, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>High above, crouched in their hiding places around the rim of the gorge, a company of partisans watches you succumb to the aroma of the flowers. When they are sure that you are unconscious, their sergeant leaves his position and descends by rope into the gorge, his nose and mouth covered by a pad of Golta leaves to counter the intoxicating scent. He had intended to bundle you on to your horse and lead you from the gorge to where the mountain air would revive you, but on reaching your body his suspicions are aroused. The ring and uniform you wear indicate that you are a Pathfinder with a message from Prince Graygor, but the weapons you carry, and your fair hair and Northland features are not those of an élite Eruan soldier. He rolls you over on to your stomach and is horrified to discover Halgar's Bullwhip tied to your backpack, its copper-studded coils stained with his blood. He knows that Halgar would never have parted willingly with the weapon, for it had made him as respected a fighter as his brother, Sebb Jarel. Anger, fuelled by shock, stirs the sergeant to a fit of rage. He is convinced that you are a Drakkar, an assassin sent by Baron Shinzar to murder the brothers Jarel. With a cry of anguish he unsheathes his sword and delivers a fateful blow that commits you to everlasting sleep.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The air rushes past your face as you propel yourself across the yawning gap. Then, with a loud crash, you land on the other side among the roots and briars, and roll over to lessen the shock of impact. Barbed thorns graze your face and arms (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but you have made it across the chasm successfully. As soon as you recover you check your equipment and advance deeper into the eerie forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After hearing who you are and why you are here, the men look at each other and shake their heads in disbelief. Even the sight of the Prince's signet ring does not change their minds. <quote>You would have our leader take you to Torgar?</quote> says one, sceptically. <quote>You'd have him walk into a trap more likely. These tales you tell of quests and stones of power, they're 'bout as true as the uniform you wear. They all ring of deception and trickery!</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly the five rise to their feet and step away from the fire, their hands drifting casually towards the hilts of their swords. On a whispered cue they unsheathe their blades and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Partisans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect23">You can evade combat at any time; <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grisly reptile writhes and twists until, with a final tremor, it ceases its convulsions and settles into the mud. Like a hunter eager to claim a trophy, Jarel climbs astride the dead Gorodon and hacks free the two horns which protrude from its skull.</p>
- <p><quote>There are potion-makers in Humbold who'll pay a grand price for these,</quote> he says, wiping his blade on the body of the dead beast. He pockets one and offers the other horn to you.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Gorodon Horn, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep strapped to your backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">To continue, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The archers are playing a game they call <quote>Bullseyes</quote>, but you know it better by its Sommlending name of <quote>Portholes</quote>. Two diamond-shaped dice, each with ten sides numbered nought to nine are thrown by each player in turn. The numbers which appear face-up are added together (nought = zero), and the one with the greatest score wins. If anyone throws two noughts, however, they shout out <quote>Bullseyes!</quote> and win automatically.</p>
- <p>Each player must stake 12 Lune (3 Gold Crowns) per throw of the dice, and this money is bet before the dice are rolled.</p>
- <p>Pick two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> for each of the other two players and note these scores in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Now pick two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> for yourself. If your total is greater than the other players you win 24 Lune. If either of the other players beats your score, you lose your stake (12 Lune or 3 Gold Crowns).</p>
- <p>You may leave the game at any time, but you must stop playing if you gamble away all your money and cannot place your stake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">When you decide to stop playing, you return to Prince Graygor's tent; <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After several minutes of manipulation, the lock finally clicks and the door opens on to a passageway lined with torches. Halfway along the left wall you see another door&emdash;a solid slab of iron broken only by a small, barred window. Silently you approach the door and peer in through the grille.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you have visited the Danarg in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If not, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the war-dogs dies at your feet, you sheathe your weapon and cast your eyes at the clearing. The bear is no longer there, having loped away during your fierce fight with the Akataz.</p>
- <p>The pain of your wounds causes you to wince and grit your teeth as you hurry into the brightening forest. You have covered less than 100 yards when you hear a pitiful howl ripple through the trees. At first you think it is just your imagination, fuelled by fatigue and your stinging wounds. But when you hear it a second time you realize that the war-dogs you fought were part of a larger Akataz pack, and that the rest of the pack have just discovered their remains.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Mentora, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A yell arises from the battlements when the defenders see Adamas appear, and a mass of boulders hurtles down to greet him. With cat-like agility he veers left and right, weaving his way through the falling rocks, which smash into the causeway with a terrific roar. He reaches the door, tears the satchel from his shoulder, and primes the crystal explosive. Automatically you begin counting the seconds as he runs back through the rubble and dead bodies. Two&ellips; three&ellips; four&ellips; Then your heart leaps as you see him felled by a rock and crash headlong to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to sprint forward and attempt to rescue him, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you choose to stay where you are and watch his plight, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the men gets to his feet and begins walking towards you. You sense that he has not seen you, he is merely answering the call of nature, but you decide that it is wise to slip away before he gets any closer. Silently you disappear into the forest and return to the front of the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89"><link-text>Turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Identify yourself!</quote> you shout in reply. <quote>Then maybe you'll hear some news that'll cheer your heart.</quote> Slowly the man steps out from behind the boulders. He raises his hand and twenty others, maybe more, appear around the lip of the gorge. Several are armed with loaded bows, all pointed at you. The men are dressed in jerkins and breeches of crimson leather, and each carries a veritable arsenal of weapons strapped about his waist and chest. They are Eruan partisans.</p>
- <p><quote>I come from the court of Prince Graygor,</quote> you say, your voice amplified by the natural acoustics of the gorge. <quote>The army of Eru and the Lencian allies have driven the enemy back to Cetza. Battle is imminent and victory will soon be ours.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Your news is stale to our ears,</quote> comes the reply. <quote>And the Prince would not send a Pathfinder to tell us such as this.</quote> The partisans shuffle uneasily and view you with renewed suspicion. <quote>It is not my purpose to bring news of the war. I come to entreat the aid of Sebb Jarel,</quote> you reply.</p>
- <p>The spokesman for the partisans signals to the others and a section disappears from view. They reappear on horseback at the mouth of the gorge and beckon you to approach them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you possess a Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having made a wide detour to avoid the ford, eventually you discover an old game-trail which runs alongside the river. You follow this track for several miles until you reach a place where massive boulders, smoothed by centuries of erosion, rise out of the foaming torrent like giant stepping stones. It would be difficult, though not impossible, to cross the river at this point, but not on horseback. Reluctantly you leave your mount and make your crossing by leaping from one boulder to the next. You are halfway across when you are faced with a leap that is wider than you have ever attempted before.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or more, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage is flanked by burnt-out cottages, their soot-blackened walls creating a dingy corridor of an alley, which winds into the distance. Your senses tingle with the premonition of an ambush; you can almost taste the presence of the enemy lurking inside the ruined cottages. The fleeing Drakkarim halt in their tracks then turn to taunt your men, calling to them to come and fight if they dare. Before you can shout a warning, your men charge along the alley, brandishing their weapons and yelling angry cries of revenge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you wish to run after them, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you choose not to enter the alley, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Jarel screams for help as he struggles to escape from the clutches of two Ciquali. They latch on to his wolfskin cloak and drag him beneath the water. He surfaces, sword in hand, but is pulled under again and this time he does not reappear. A trail of bubbles and a patch of red water drifting with the current are all there is to mark the grave of Sebb Jarel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>It's the Pathfinder,</quote> comes the reply. <quote>Quick, he's wounded.</quote></p>
- <p>The two soldiers run forward. They raise their shields to protect your back from the Drakkarim arrows, and help you to reach the safety of the camp perimeter, where your wounds are cleaned and dressed. Finally you return to King Sarnac's headquarters. He and the Prince are anxious to hear your report. Despite being discovered by the enemy, you have gathered useful information about the troops defending the bridge. The King praises your bravery and Prince Graygor orders his heralds to escort you back to his tent. After the ordeal of the scouting mission, you are grateful for the chance to get a good night's sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Forcing open your tired eyes you try to focus on the shapes as they draw closer. At first you dismiss the swirling grey figures as hallucination brought on by lack of sleep, but when a terrible chill sweeps over you like a blast of icy cold wind, fear reawakens your senses with a jolt.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="95" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="95" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The creatures take to the air and emit a ghostly howl as they swirl around your head. You reach for a weapon but a tendril of darkness writhes out of one phantom and whips your hand. Its cold lash bites like sharpened steel and leaves your fingers numb and nerveless: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>More tendrils appear and wriggle towards you like a host of black snakes, all of them eager to feast on your life-force.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you possess a Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you possess neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you dive to avoid it, the blade whistles past your shoulder, slicing open yow tunic but sparing your flesh the kiss of its razor-sharp edge. Before you can rise to your feet, the Baron steps forward to deliver the coup de grace. <quote>Victory belongs to me!</quote> he howls, and swings his axe again. But suddenly he hears a sound that makes him recoil in horror.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull a metal bar set into the wall and the huge lead-lined doors rumble open to reveal an incredible sight. Before you stands a domed chamber, its ceiling criss-crossed with gantries of rusted iron. At its centre is a circular black pit around which are gathered groups of ghoulish creatures clad in transparent robes and masks. Angled upwards from the floor are slender crystal rods that glow with green fire. They pour forth a constant stream of pencil-thin light which focuses at a point directly above the centre of the pit. Your eyes are drawn to this point, for here you can see the three remaining Lorestones of Nyxator, the objects of your quest, held suspended in a ball of flickering green flame.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>At the point where the rods meet, the Lorestones<br />of Nyxator hang suspended</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="672" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="672" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The harsh clang of the alarm bell, and the sudden sight of you silhouetted in the doorway, has startled the creatures. They slink away from the pit and escape through an archway, leaving you and Paido alone in the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Over here!</quote> calls Jarel, pulling open the rot-infested door of a hut at the water's edge. Inside you see an overturned rowboat with a pair of battered oars shipped underneath. He turns the small craft over and raises it by the stern.</p>
- <p><quote>Give a hand,</quote> he says, straining to push it forward. You place the oars inside, lift the bow, and help him launch it gently into the river. <quote>This brings back some memories,</quote> says Jarel, wistfully. <quote>Though I never thought I'd ever be sharing this little booty-runner with a Pathfinder!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You toss your pack into the boat and take your place opposite the partisan leader as he fixes the oars into position. Then, with a smooth stroke, he propels the boat out into the current and you begin your voyage towards the sinister channels of the Hellswamp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you dismount and approach the charred tower door. Through the split timbers you see a man crouching beside a smouldering fire, cooking a bird that is skewered on the point of his dagger. He wears clothes cut from supple leather dyed deep crimson, and coiled on his hip you notice a Bullwhip, its braids studded with nuggets of copper.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="102" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="102" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Join me!</quote> he says suddenly, without raising his eyes from the glowing charcoal fire. <quote>There's enough meat on this fledgling for the two o' us.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you wish to accept the stranger's offer, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you decide to remount your horse and hurry away, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a flash as your weapon smites the link and severs the amulet from the chain. The Demonlord howls and recoils, as if wounded by the blow, and you snatch the amulet away from his feet before he recovers. The black iron feels unnaturally cold; it numbs your hand and fills your arm with a dull throbbing pain. Despite your acute discomfort you know you must maintain your grip, for it is the key to the Demonlord's existence here in this temple.</p>
- <p>Roark raises his amulet and screams a curse. Suddenly the chill that pains your arm lances across your chest and stabs at your heart. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you survive the attack, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Jarel appears at your side and delivers a blow that rips open the evil creature's heart. But his timely aid has diverted his attention from the forest where danger still lurks. A pair of feral eyes glint in the moonlight. Then another beast charges forward and flings itself at Jarel's unprotected back. You lift your weapon and move to strike as the creature comes flying through the air. Owing to the momentum of its attack, you have only one chance to deflect it from your companion.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The snake mistakes your movement for a hostile action and strikes out at your face.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If your total is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You splash face-first into the mire, which fills your eyes and mouth. Blinded by the stinging mud, you fail to see your horse rear up and topple towards you, an arrow lodged deeply in his skull. His flailing hooves slam into your back and your legs are pinned beneath him when he falls heavily on his side: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghastly creature emits a shrill whistle as you deliver your killing blow. The deadly mandibles continue to snap, but without aim or purpose, as its lifeless body slowly oozes from the hole and falls limply to the chasm floor.</p>
- <p>Grabbing the roots firmly with both hands you haul yourself up and collapse into the undergrowth. As soon as your strength returns you gather up your equipment and advance deeper into the eerie forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gantry passes close enough to the Lorestones to enable you to cup your hands beneath them. If Paido were to destroy the crystal rods, the Lorestones would be freed of the energy beams and drop into your hands.</p>
- <p>You tell Paido of your bold plan and he nods enthusiastically as you get ready to make your catch. You call to him when you are ready and, one by one, he begins to smash the crystal rods.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The thunder of hooves warns you that more partisan horsemen are heading your way. You wheel your horse about and gallop down a long, twisting hill track. You are beginning to outdistance your pursuers when your steed suddenly pitches forward and throws you head-first into a tangle of foliage. The dense undergrowth cushions your fall and you emerge unscathed, but your horse has been seriously injured.</p>
- <p>A deep pot-hole ensnared its foreleg and the limb is broken: the poor animal cannot go on. The partisan reinforcements gallop into view and you are forced to abandon your crippled mount and escape into the surrounding trees on foot. With the angry cries of the partisans echoing behind you, you curse your ill luck and hurry deeper into the darkening forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first day of your voyage is smooth and uneventful. The strong current bears you steadily northwards and Jarel is content to allow the boat to drift with the flow while he enjoys the warm sunshine and your conversation. You learn much about your guide and the land of Eru, and in return you recount the legends of Sommerlund and tell of your adventures in the realms of Magnamund.</p>
- <p>At dusk you reach a confluence where the river is joined by another that flows in from the east. Here the currents are swift and treacherous, but Jarel steers the boat masterfully and brings it ashore at a muddy beach on the west bank, where a small stone hut stands close to the river's edge. You are dragging the boat up the muddy shore when Jarel suddenly freezes in his tracks. A movement among the tall grasses that fringe the beach has alerted him to a pair of green, pig-like eyes glinting in the gloom. <quote>Keep still,</quote> he whispers, fearfully. <quote>It could be a Gorodon.</quote> His fears are confirmed as the shadowy creature leaves its hiding place among the grasses and comes crawling down the beach towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the Magnakai rank of Primate or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A chill of premonition runs down your spine as you stare at the old mining huts below, for you feel sure that they conceal an enemy, lying in ambush. You cast your eyes along the river for an alternative place to cross, but it is only here that the deep, fast-flowing waters of the River Brol are shallow enough to ford on horseback.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to gallop towards the ford and attempt to cross it, despite the risk of an ambush, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you choose to avoid the ford and try to cross the river further downstream, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first rays of dawn light are beginning to lighten the forest when you happen upon a wide gap in the trees. A dark shape, large and rounded like a furry boulder, lies curled up beneath the branches of a pine at the edge of the clearing. In the distance a crow caws nervously, stirring the shape from its slumber with a half-hearted call of warning. Your pulse quickens as you recognize the outline of a big black bear.</p>
- <p>A noise to your left diverts your attention from the waking bear, and to your horror you see a pack of leathery black Akataz creeping towards you through the undergrowth, their feral eyes aglow with bloodlust as they latch on to your scent. With a howl they leap forward, clawing and biting as they drag you to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered twenty yards when a rain of boulders begins to crash down all around you. Suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and the taste of blood fills your mouth. You fall heavily but you are numb to the pain, for your neck is broken and death is but seconds away.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the company of a dozen bodyguards and court heralds, you follow the Prince as he makes his way on foot to King Sarnac's camp. It is his usual practice to inspect his soldiers on the eve of battle, to see for himself that all is well and to raise their spirits with a few words of praise and encouragement. He is heartened to discover their morale is already high and that they are all confident that he will lead them to victory.</p>
- <p>At length you arrive at the Lencian headquarters. A huge yellow flag, bearing the emblem of a white swan and blue dragon, flutters in the breeze above the royal tent where a unit of silver-clad knights stands stiffly to attention. A trumpet announces your arrival and the knights escort you inside to meet the King. After formal greetings have been exchanged, the grey-haired King begins to discuss the impending battle. The Prince has brought with him a detailed map of the town and, as the two leaders formulate their plans, it is used to mark the places where their regiments will assemble and attack the enemy.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>On a detailed map of the town, the Prince and the King mark the<br />places where their regiments will assemble and attack the enemy</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="664" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="664" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>If only we knew the number of reinforcements Baron Shinzar has received,</quote> says the King, uneasily. <quote>Then we could be sure our plans would succeed.</quote> The Prince nods in agreement. <quote>We must send a scout to reconnoitre their defences, or hundreds of our soldiers could lose their lives needlessly in the assault.</quote></p>
- <p>The King looks in your direction then returns his eyes to the Prince. <quote>I have no scouts trained for such a delicate operation,</quote> he says, <quote>but I see you have a Pathfinder. Send him. His skills would be well suited to this task.</quote></p>
- <p>The Prince hesitates. He cannot reasonably refuse the King's suggestion, yet to send you into the enemy camp would endanger your life and your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to volunteer to scout the enemy positions, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you choose to remain silent, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect245-1-foot" idref="sect245-1">
- <p>You must win the combat before continuing.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dozen webbed hands slap over the gunwales and six ghoulish, dome-shaped heads rise dripping from the river. A rasping croak issues through their bared fangs when they see you are prepared for their attack, and frantically they try to clamber into the boat before you can cut them down.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ciquali</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight due to your readiness to receive the attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If the fight lasts longer than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.<a id="sect245-1" idref="sect245-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You succeed in slowing the effects of the venom now coursing through your veins. But you have been bitten by a Yua and its bite is fatal unless treated immediately with the only known antidote&emdash;Oede herb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you possess some Oede herb, swallow it to neutralize the venom and <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you do not possess any of this rare herb, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Casting your eye across the body-strewn terrain, you soon realize that all the riderless horses are now either dead or have fled the field in panic. Left with no alternative, you scramble out of the mud and set off after the Prince on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as your light illuminates the darkness, the phantoms emit a venomous hiss and swirl away into the shadows. They are afraid of the light but their need to feed on your life-force will soon overcome this fear unless you can devise a more permanent way of keeping them at bay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corroded iron gantry creaks violently as you inch your way nearer to the ball of green flame, and, eventually, you reach a position where the Lorestones are within your grasp. But as you stare at the flickering core of energy you realize that to touch it would be fatal.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You ponder the problem for several minutes before you hit upon a solution.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run without pausing through the shadowy pines until you can no longer hear the cries of your pursuers. The forest is soon swallowed by the night but, guided by your Kai senses and the occasional rays of moonlight that filter through the densely packed trees, you are able to continue your lonely trek eastwards. You stop at a stream to bathe your face in the cold water and reflect on the bitter irony of your situation: the people you had hoped would help you now pursue you as their enemy. It is a cheerless situation but you do not allow it to defeat your resolve to reach Torgar and recover the stolen Lorestones.</p>
- <p>Gradually, what begins as a suspicion becomes a nagging certainty that you are being watched. Your senses detect an evil presence lurking in the surrounding trees and you decide to forego rest and keep moving until dawn. Tired and hungry after your ordeal, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swarthy-faced warriors loose their arrows as they advance, but they are poorly aimed and whistle past to splash harmlessly in the river. The leading attackers seem impressed by your display of courage and they slow down. You take advantage of their hesitation and launch yourself at them, catching them wrong-footed as you land your first blows.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zagganozod</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the impetus of your attack, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the sun-sword and flames course along the blade, filling the ruins with its vivid golden light. The Prince turns to shout a warning but his adversary strikes him a cruel blow that lays open his thigh and hurls him to the ground. Although his helm hides his face, its nose-bar and chin-piece exposing little but a malicious glint in his eyes, you are sure that this is no ordinary Drakkarim warrior; the smell of evil hangs heavy around him like the stench of a rotting corpse.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Drakkarim warrior thrusts the stave of iron at your<br />chest and a blast of white flame scorches your arm</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="638" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="638" />
- </illustration>
- <p>He snarls a vile curse and flings his sword at your head. You fend off the spinning blade with ease but the attack has served its purpose. The warrior snatches up the shimmering iron rod and it hums with a force that reveals its ancestry: it is a stave of power forged in the furnaces of Helgedad. With a mighty yell he thrusts the stave at your chest and a blast of white flame scorches your arm as you parry the attack on the hilt of the Sommerswerd. Half-blinded by the flash, you stagger back and quickly muster your strength for a desperate fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ziran (with Powerstave)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The Ziran is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flames burn ferociously and you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before you are able to extinguish them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you survive your burns, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Their attack is so swift and deadly that there is no time to draw a weapon. The gruesome clack of their fangs fills your ears and white-hot pain lances through your arms and legs as the Akataz snap shut their powerful jaws: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Desperately you kick and punch, rolling over and over through the undergrowth until you break free of their crushing bite. Weak from loss of blood, you stagger to your feet and unsheathe a weapon just in time to meet their renewed attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akataz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">43</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These war-dogs are especially susceptible to psychic attack. If you have and wish to use the Discipline of Mindblast or Psi-surge, double all bonuses you would normally receive. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Spirit, triple all bonuses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are able to identify many of the flowers that fill the gorge. Among them are the blue and pink blooms of the Lacaress, used throughout Magnamund as an active ingredient of sleeping potions. It is the insidious scent of these flowers that is slowly numbing your senses. Wary of the danger, you rein your horse about and hurry out of the gorge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and strike out at the phantoms, but your blows pass through them harmlessly. They howl with fiendish glee as they swirl around your head, whipping you with tendrils of darkness that writhe like thin black snakes from their filmy bodies. Every lash weakens your Psi-screen and you sense that if you are to survive this merciless assault you must quickly find a weapon to combat these fell creatures of the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you possess a Bullwhip, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you possess a Kalte Firesphere, a Torch and Tinderbox, or a Lantern, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you possess none of these items, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lie for several minutes, semi-unconscious due to the stunning impact: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gradually your senses return and you stagger to your feet. Every muscle in your body aches viciously, but no bones are broken, and you are filled with relief that you have not ended your days like those whose mouldering remains carpet the chasm floor.</p>
- <p>You examine the hollows that riddle the walls and conclude that they were made by a burrowing animal of some sort. Most are too small to enter, but there is one that is large enough to explore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to enter this bore-hole, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to attempt to climb the chasm wall, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill you intensify your vision. The distant ruins grow larger and clearer and you can see a figure crouched upon the highest point of the broken temple wall: it is a warrior clad in silver mail and a gold-spiked helmet. He raises a plain rod of iron and another crackling bolt of blue-white fire leaps from its tip to strike the pikemen with lethal accuracy. Their screams of terror rend the air and the survivors fall apart in a desperate, panic-stricken flight to escape the fate that has befallen their slain comrades. Quickly you inform the Prince of what you have seen at the temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It feels good to have firm ground beneath your feet once again, even though it is no more than a crusty mud flat supporting a brace of stunted trees. Jarel ties the boat to one of the twisted trunks and settles down to sleep while you take the first watch. Your rumbling stomach reminds you that you have not eaten today: you must eat a Meal now or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The night sounds of the swamp make you uneasy but your watch passes without event. Shortly after midnight, Jarel awakens and you are able to catch a few hours' sleep before dawn arrives and you take to the water once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door you see a dank dungeon cell. A prisoner sits cross-legged on the cold stone floor, his head resting on his chest. The dark skin on his hands and arms is covered in tiny scars, and his plaited hair is matted with grime and dried blood. Wearily he raises his head and your pulse races as you recognize the face of Lord Paido, warrior-magician of Dessi.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278"><link-text>Turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Death Knight screams his last oath and falls face-first into the stinking ditch-water, you hear shouting and the sound of men in armour descending the bank from both sides of the bridge. Drawn by the sounds of your struggle, the élite Drakkarim warriors are closing in for the kill. Speed is your only ally now. With an energy born of desperation, you claw your way up the slippery bank and sprint towards the allies' encampment. The enemy see you escaping and direct a hail of arrows at your fleeing figure. Two shafts bury themselves in your back (lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and you are pitched to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Waves of psychic power wash over your mind and leave you shaking with shock. Your Psi-screen protects your nervous system but you are unable to stop the waves from penetrating deep into your memory. Lord Adamas increases the power of the mind-gem until you reveal your true identity and the nature of your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hear me, O Lord of Pain,</quote> cries the leader. <quote>Your humble servant Roark invokes you to aid him in this hour of dread uncertainty. Come forth and conquer. Come forth and feast upon the souls of our enemies!</quote></p>
- <p>As the grim words uttered by the grey-haired figure echo through the temple, your Kai senses detect a stream of invisible force rising from the marble block. Gradually the force takes the form of a mist filled with ghastly apparitions. An icy chill engulfs the temple as the mist swirls like a cyclone around the walls.</p>
- <p><quote>Come! Come, Tagazin!</quote> screams Roark, his voice barely audible above the howling wind. <quote>From the pit of eternal pain I summon thee!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Mentora, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of training, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible pain rips through your body: you gasp in shocked surprise and instinctively clutch your body. Blood oozes thickly between your fingers and you stare down in horror at the arrow which is protruding from your chest. Colours whirl and sounds grow faint as the pain drags you to the ground. Then, as the agony reaches an intolerable pitch, the pain suddenly disappears and you plunge into the timeless oblivion of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wind whistles past your face as you leap across the gap and land with a jolt that leaves you breathless. Desperately you cling to the rock, but your feet cannot grip the smooth surface and you slip backwards into the river.</p>
- <p>You surface quickly but the river here is deep and strong, and you cannot resist being swept along on the current. For over three miles you ride the icy white water until you begin to feel smooth rocks speeding past beneath your feet. By kicking out against these boulders you are able to propel yourself towards the bank. Cold and exhausted, you claw your way out of the water and collapse on the rocky shore.</p>
- <p>Your fall and the rough river ride have taken a toll of your possessions. Delete the items you have listed fourth, fifth and sixth on the Backpack section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and half the contents of your Belt Pouch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">To continue, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A figure dressed in black robes, whom you recognize as one of Roark's followers, is waving a burning torch in front of him at arm's length and shouting. Five spectral shadow-shapes wreathed in mist swirl around him, trying repeatedly to penetrate his fiery guard. Behind him stands an ancient burial mound, and lying near its dark entrance are the bodies of two soldiers clad in leather armour and three horses. A dozen of the ghost-like apparitions hover over each of the soldiers, as if they are feasting on their bodies.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="95" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="95" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Mentora, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you wish to help the black-robed man fight off his ghostly attackers, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you choose to avoid this conflict, skirt around the edge of the quarry and continue deeper into the forest, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>That ring you're wearing and those clothes o' yours look real enough,</quote> he says, flicking the bird meat from his dagger, <quote>but you don't look like a Pathfinder and you sure don't sound like one neither!</quote> Then, without warning, he draws back his blade and flings it at your throat.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you hurry away you happen upon a trail that gradually descends to the bank of a rushing river. Massive boulders, smoothed by the water over the centuries, rise from the foaming torrent like giant stepping stones. Across the river you see another forest, dark and forbidding. The sun is strong in a cloudless sky and the air is warm and dry, yet a grey mist hangs heavy and cold around the trees of that forest.</p>
- <p>All along the bank on this side of the river grow clumps of bushy herbs with bright scarlet flowers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vakeros is overjoyed at the prospect of being rescued from this dreadful place. He has languished here for a year since being captured by agents of the Darklords. His name is Paido, and although you tell him that you are an Eruan Pathfinder, he recognizes your accent and your strong Sommlending features.</p>
- <p><quote>You may wear Eruan cloth but you are not a native of that land,</quote> he says, suspecting that you have been sent to trick him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to reveal your true identity to this man, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The enemy are rallying to launch a counter-attack on the hill. To the south you see a mass of leather-clad Hammerlanders, supported by a regiment of grim-faced Brigandi mercenaries, advancing towards the Prince's position. The Palace Guard have fought like lions, but they have lost half their number and must be near to exhaustion. They may not survive a counter-attack by a much fresher force that outnumbers them five to one. All that can save them now are the Eruan reserves.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to take command of the Prince's reserves and march them towards the hill, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you decide to ride to King Sarnac's camp and ask him to save the Prince, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the sweat from your brow, you sheathe your weapon and search the bodies of your ambushers. All of them are clad in black helmets and scarlet, chainmail hauberks, and each has an assortment of weapons and equipment strapped to their muscular bodies. You recognize the distinctive armour which identifies them as Zagganozod&emdash;a motley unit of Drakkarim cavalry which patrols the Blackshroud Trail. This company must have fled here on foot after the Drakkarim defeat at Cetza, for you can find no sign of their horses.</p>
- <p>Your search of their bodies reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Swords</li>
- <li>3 Quivers</li>
- <li>2 Daggers</li>
- <li>11 Arrows</li>
- <li>3 Bows</li>
- <li>2 Axes</li>
- <li>1 Mace</li>
- <li>1 Broadsword</li>
- <li>16 Lune (4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Enough food for 4 Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take whatever items you wish. When you have made the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, you ford the river and continue on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes the Baron, but he is saved from a fatal wound by the lip of the steel bevor that protects his neck and back. The arrow ricochets, gouging a deep furrow across the base of his skull and making him fall heavily to his knees. Bellowing like an angry bull, he glares in your direction as he staggers painfully to his feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take your place beside Lord Adamas and charge through the smouldering gap, leaping over the charred and broken remains of the Drakkarim who were caught by the blast. The allied soldiers follow your lead and sweep into the startled city, through a gate now guarded only by the slain. Despite their shock, the defenders begin to rally as they receive fresh reinforcements from other parts of the city, and soon a vicious battle rages in the cramped, gloomy streets.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You lead a group of Palmyrion men-at-arms across a courtyard and into a dingy street where you find yourselves confronted by a regiment of Drakkarim garrison troops. They have gathered to make a wall of shields behind a pair of small figures, black-robed and cowled, each holding a yellow globe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you do not possess this skill or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately the two men fight to defend themselves from your deadly attack. You cannot evade this combat and must fight them both to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pirsian Swordsman 1</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">31</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <combat><enemy>Pirsian Swordsman 2</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>My mission is secret,</quote> you reply. <quote>If it is to succeed it is vital that it remains so.</quote> You glance at the other men seated around the fire and they return your glance with suspicion.</p>
- <p><quote>They are my brothers. Whatever you wish to say to me can be said in front of them.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you wish to tell these men about your quest, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you would prefer not to tell them anything, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the plants: they are Laumwort, a herb very similar to the healing plant, Laumspur. You can regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by eating the leaves.</p>
- <p>Each Meal of Laumwort restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and there are enough leaves here for 3 Meals. If you decide to pick this herb and keep it, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">To continue, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sniper's second arrow splinters harmlessly against the wall behind which you shelter. Close to where you lie is the crimson-splashed body of a Drakkarim Death Knight. Wounded during the fighting at the bridge, he crawled here to die. A Broadsword and an Axe hang from his belt, and among the contents which have spilled out of his pack you see a Bottle of Water, a Torch, a blanket and enough food for three Meals.</p>
- <p>You may take any of these Backpack Items or Weapons before leaving the ruins and pressing on towards the centre of the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155"><link-text>Turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A key to the cell door hangs on a hook nearby. You grab it, twist it in the lock, and kick the heavy slab of metal. It creaks open and Paido rushes forward to embrace you.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank the Gods you have found me, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, his voice filled with emotion. <quote>The Drakkarim said you were dead, that your body lay rotting in the Danarg, but I never once believed their lies.</quote></p>
- <p>Paido is overjoyed to hear that the Torgar Gate has fallen and that a battle is raging in the streets above.</p>
- <p>And when you inform him of your mission he replies with news that raises your hopes of success.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reflexes save you from the snake's deadly bite. Its jaws snap shut around air and instantly it recoils into its hollow in case you retaliate. Rather than attempt to kill the snake in the tight confines of the shaft, you snatch the opportunity to escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the break of dawn the soldiers of Lencia and Eru rouse themselves and adopt their positions for the fight. You gather your equipment and join the Prince at the top of the hill on which he has established his command post. He is observing the enemy line through a telescope and dictating orders to his heralds, who commit his words to parchment and dispatch them to his regiments in the field.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Battle of Cetza: Troop positions at dawn</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="769" height="454" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="769" height="454" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>We outnumber the enemy two to one, but they are well positioned to receive our attack,</quote> comments the Prince, handing you his telescope so that you can scan their lines.</p>
- <p>The town of Cetza is little more than a handful of ruined cottages clustered on a flat-topped hill. To the north lies a wood and a small hill on which a ruined temple stands; to the south lies an orchard surrounded by a low wall, and further on, open grassland bisected by a ditch that runs the whole length of the battlefield. The road from Luomi crosses the ditch at a stone bridge which is barricaded and heavily defended. The enemy have also been busy to the north. A mass of pointed stakes form a barrier between the two hills to impede any attempt by cavalry to break through the centre, and all along this defensive line are row upon row of Drakkarim archers.</p>
- <p>An unnatural calm descends on the field, as though time momentarily stands still. Suddenly the quiet is shattered by a fanfare of trumpets from King Sarnac's camp. It is the signal to advance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your Magnakai skill and launch a wave of psychic force which batters the energy field surrounding the ghosts. You sense their power fading away as you increase the intensity of your attack, and gradually their filmy bodies evaporate into the darkness.</p>
- <p>Your psychic attack has saved you from a terrifying death, but at a cost to your strength and stamina. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10), and deduct this number from your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you survive this loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly after dawn you discover a track which winds its way northwards through the rough-barked pines. <quote>This old game-trail will lead us down to Smuggler's Nook,</quote> says Jarel, chewing on a piece of dried meat he has pulled from his pack. <quote>I reckon we should get there this side o' noon.</quote></p>
- <p>His prediction comes true, for it is mid-morning when you arrive at a ragged group of plank huts on the bank of a fast-flowing river. At one time these shanties were the thriving centre of illegal trafficking in gold and gems. The citizens of Pirsi, who mine these rich resources in the Eru Range, used to smuggle their precious cargoes out of the country by boat, choosing to risk the dangers of the Hellswamp rather than pay the Prince his taxes. It was only after the Prince decreed the death penalty for such smuggling, and employed Pathfinders to help enforce his law, that the Pirsians finally gave up their illegal trade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231"><link-text>Turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A black-shafted arrow gouges a furrow of skin from your forearm and knocks you backwards out of the saddle: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your horse panics and gallops away, disappearing over the brow of the ridge as you stagger to your feet. Then, with a harsh yell, your ambushers pour out of the log hut. They are eager to finish you before you can offer any resistance. Three of them are armed with bows which they reload as they advance towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to evade them by wading across the ford, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare for combat, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Palace Guard advance majestically, their serried ranks of steel slowly change formation in preparation for the Prince's order to charge. Heavy lances rise like the spines of a steel porcupine and their scarlet and yellow pennons unfurl to the wind. A wave of arrows comes flying towards you, sent by the Drakkarim standing behind their fence of stakes, but the range is long and the black shafts rattle harmlessly off Eruan armour and shields.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="82" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="82" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The first rank of horsemen reach the ditch to find the earth soft and waterlogged. The ruined temple lies 300 yards ahead, and before it a line of Drakkarim pikemen stand grimly silent on the slope of the hill. A war-horn blares its signal and suddenly all hell breaks loose. Arrows pour down on all sides: from the enemy archers to the right and from archers, previously unseen, lurking in the woods to the left. Many shafts find their way through the sides of helmets and between plates of polished armour. Still the Prince commands his men onwards and they force their horses across the ditch, braving the savage hail of death. You survive the arrows and steer your horse through the cloying mud, but you are knocked from the saddle by a riderless steed maddened by the pain of its wounds.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Disciplines of Animal Control and Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the staircase lies a circular parapet which overlooks a huge, cavernous crater. It is filled with thousands of human slaves toiling with pick and shovel deep in the sulphurous heart of Torgar. Their bodies are filthy and covered with sweat despite a freezing wind, which howls in the depths like a hungry wolf. Drakkarim overseers urge them to greater effort, and the crack of their whips is answered by the slaves' anguished cries of pain.</p>
- <p>Angered by what you have seen, you leave the parapet and enter a dimly lit passage that descends to a door of black steel. A twist of the handle reveals that it is locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you have a Black Key, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you have a Skeleton Key, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you possess neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect286-1-foot" idref="sect286-1">
- <p>If you automatically kill Tagazin, he doesn't die but is severely weakened. You should still turn to <a idref="sect20">Section 20</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your golden sword, and its cleansing light washes over the Demonlord's unwholesome form. He growls uneasily, as if sickened by the close proximity of such a noble blade, and slowly he withdraws into the temple. Roark and his followers huddle in the corner and watch with fearful eyes as their master prepares to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">65</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you reduce his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to <a id="sect286-1" idref="sect286-1-foot" class="footnote">20 points or less,</a> do not continue combat but <link-text>turn instead to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> says the captain. He looks towards the bar and shakes his head. Your muscles tense as you get ready to dive to the floor but, to your relief, all you hear is the owner placing his crossbow on the counter. <quote>I shall take you to Jarel, but you must agree to wear a blindfold: it's a safeguard, for your own good as well as his. If you were to be captured and tortured by the enemy, you would be unable to tell them where the partisans are encamped.</quote></p>
- <p>He summons the owner, who produces a square of black cloth from his pocket and winds it around your eyes. The captain leads you outside and helps you on to your horse and the two of you set off along a secret forest trail. After two hours in the saddle you reach your destination and the blindfold is removed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight with breathtaking skill and every blow you land leaves an enemy dead at your feet. <quote>Pull back!</quote> you shout, as you cut and thrust at the snarling Hammerlanders. <quote>Pull back to the bridge!</quote></p>
- <p>Gradually the survivors extricate themselves from the ambush and run back along the alley, leaving just you and two Lencian knights to cover the withdrawal. A knot of Hammerlanders, armed with axes, scream their blood-curdling war-cry and rush forward to hack you down.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hammerlanders</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight, for you are helped by the Lencians fighting by your side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The collision with the far wall leaves you breathless but otherwise unharmed. Gripping firmly with both hands, you haul yourself out of the chasm, untie the stick from the end of your rope and wind it back into your pack before setting off deeper into the eerie forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>So you are the one they call Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, thoughtfully. <quote>And you have come here to break into Torgar and claim that which belongs to you. How strange it is that our goals should be so similar. Come, follow me, perhaps cooperation will hasten our success.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is soon after sunset when you arrive at Pirsi. Fog swirls through the gloomy streets and crooked alleys, but you can see light seeping from chinks in the reinforced shutters and doors of only a few of the cabins. You bring your horse to a halt and dismount beside the steps of a large log hut that serves as both a general store and tavern. Your steed neighs uneasily, drawing your attention to a group of stony-faced men who are advancing along the street. Torches blaze in their work-worn hands, casting a vivid yellow glow in their suspicious eyes as they approach you warily. Their leader, who is dressed in the uniform of an Eruan Pathfinder captain, steps to within inches of your face. Coldly he stares into your eyes, his jaw set in a rigid sneer of contempt.</p>
- <p><quote>Have you forgotten how to salute, soldier?</quote> he growls, menacingly. <quote>Or perhaps you're not a Pathfinder after all. Perhaps you're just another skulking Drakkar spy?</quote> You notice that several of the men carry Bor pistols, primitive but very deadly weapons, especially at such close range. If you are to save your skin you had best salute the captain immediately.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you choose to salute by touching your forehead, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you choose to salute by raising your hand, palm outwards, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you choose to salute by placing your hand across your chest, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fight raging on the hill becomes a vicious struggle as the Hammerlanders hurl themselves like hungry wolves at the battle-weary Guard. Doggedly you advance until you are close enough to shout the charge. Then, with a rousing cheer from the Prince's men to speed them on their way, your command rush forward and the leading pikemen take the enemy in the flank. The attack is devastating. The Hammerlanders and the Brigandi are split in two and swept from the hill like autumn leaves. The pikemen halt and you order the archers forward to fire into the retreating enemy.</p>
- <p>The retreat becomes an all-out rout as the enemy flee the battlefield in chaos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two diminutive magicians see you level your bow and realize that they are in danger. As you take aim, they get ready to hurl their spheres at the Palmyrions.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add any missile bonuses you have to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun is strong in the cloudless sky and it quickly dries your sodden clothes and warms your aching limbs as you stand surveying your new surroundings. A stony trail leads into a forest of mist-enshrouded trees and, despite the heat of the sun, you feel a sudden chill of premonition. Instinctively you know that this is the Isle of Ghosts Prince Graygor spoke of so fearfully.</p>
- <p>With caution guiding your every step you follow the trail, treading carefully through saw-briar that tears mercilessly at your boots and breeches, until you are forced to stop at the edge of a narrow chasm that bisects the trail. A tangle of yellowed bones lies at the bottom and a damp, unwholesome smell rises from a number of tiny caves that riddle the sheer walls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to attempt to jump across the narrow chasm, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to look for a way around it, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cold blue light of early morning and the sound of a crow cawing in the distance stir you from your deep sleep. Rays of golden sunlight stream through the forest's canopy, illuminating the dark, grey-green foliage and making your continued trek through the pines a far easier task than last night. You make excellent progress and at mid-afternoon you emerge from the woods that fringe the eastern border to find yourself staring at the River Brol and the rolling green sea of trees that is the Moggador Forest.</p>
- <p>The rushing waters of the Brol are too deep to traverse at this point, so you follow the rock-strewn bank northwards until you catch sight of an ideal place to cross. The remains of an ancient bridge, which collapsed centuries ago, form a shoal of broken stones that ford the river. The water bubbles and foams as it washes over this shallow causeway. Eagerly you approach the ford, but you stop dead in your tracks when you hear gruff, inhuman voices coming from a clump of bushes near the river's edge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility or Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Roughly you pull the dead Drakkar on to his stomach and cut open his pack. In his pack and on his body, you discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>3 Arrows</li>
- <li>16 Lune (4 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You may take any of these items before pressing on towards the centre of the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155"><link-text>Turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Palace Guard succeed in closing their ranks and fending off the frenzied attacks of the desperate Drakkarim. Their gallantry and battle-skill is a stirring sight as they fight their way determinedly towards the crest of the hill. Faced by such noble warriors, the Drakkarim begin to falter and fall back in disarray towards the town.</p>
- <p>As you near the top of the hill you catch sight of Prince Graygor. He is locked in mortal combat with a silver-clad warrior inside the ruins of the temple. Strewn around them are the dead bodies of the Palace Guardsmen who, with the Prince, broke through the Drakkarim pikemen during their charge upon the hill. The Prince is trying to prevent the warrior from retrieving a rod of iron that lies on the ground between them. This rod crackles with a blue-white fire that shimmers along its length.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A tingling sensation electrifies your senses and fills your mind with images of events which took place in this temple thousands of years ago. So strong are the psychic residues that linger here that the images appear breathtakingly vivid.</p>
- <p>During the Age of the Old Kingdoms, when the Elder Magi ruled the land, this temple was a place of learning and experimentation. It was here they developed their knowledge and understanding of nature, and many beneficial discoveries were made to the betterment of Magnamund. The guardians of this laboratory were a Drodarin race called the Patar. They served the Elder Magi and in return they were entrusted with their new-found secrets of herbcraft and druidic lore. But the Patar betrayed that trust when they allowed the Cenerese, a clan of evil druids, into the temple to plunder its secrets. The Cenerese called upon their Demonlord, who appeared in this very chamber. He took all that the Elder Magi had nurtured and cultivated, and he turned it against them in the form of a deadly plague that decimated their race. In the wake of their destruction, the Cenerese and Patar rose to power, but their reign was short-lived. A clan of goodly druids called the Herbalish, who had helped the surviving Elder Magi to escape their enemies during the years of the Great Plague, waged war on the Cenerese and were victorious.</p>
- <p>The Patar fled the temple in shame and gave a solemn pledge to the Herbalish that they would redeem their act of treachery by devoting themselves to the study of the healing arts and by striving to defeat disease in all its forms. Ever since, the descendants of the Patar have been known as the Redeemers, and each new generation has upheld that ancient vow.</p>
- <p>But the story has yet to find an ending, for in this forgotten temple you are now witnessing a terrifying repeat of history. Roark and his followers are Cenerese Druids and they have come here once more to invoke the help of their master&emdash;the Demonlord Tagazin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116"><link-text>Turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The alarm bell signifies that the entrance to the tower is under attack. Adamas and his army have reached the centre of the city and are now fighting their way down into the dungeons in an attempt to free the slaves. The Death Knights are hurrying to their battle stations and they are unaware of your presence in this chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A triumphant cheer fills the air as the soldiers of Prince Graygor and King Sarnac flood into the square; Cetza has been recaptured and the enemy have been smashed beyond recovery. Everywhere you look there are joyous faces, for the death of Baron Shinzar has sealed a victory that will liberate all of Eru from the cruel yoke of Drakkarim occupation.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>As you watch the defeated remnants of the enemy escape across the ruins of the Cetza Wall and scurry like rats for the safety of Blackshroud, Prince Graygor joins you in celebration of the victory. <quote>We have triumphed, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says. <quote>Our land is now free and the way is open for you to reach Torgar and fulfil your quest.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect4"><link-text>Turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crystal explodes with a blinding flash, releasing a bolt of sun-like energy that tears a massive hole in the one-foot-thick iron plate and transforms what little remains into red-hot slag. The shuddering concussion jars the entire causeway and fragments of glowing metal fall all around you. Triumphant cheers rise above the thunderous boom that is rumbling through the ravine, as the spearpoint of Adamas's army surges across the causeway towards the ruined gate.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A massive hole is torn in the iron plate and the spearpoint<br />of Adamas's army surges towards the ruined gate</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="666" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="666" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant's request is not as innocent as it seems, for he recognizes the copper nuggets that are woven into the braids of the Bullwhip. He knows of only one such whip and its owner would not have parted with it willingly. You sense that several of the other partisans also recognize the whip and are slowly edging their horses nearer in order to surround and attack you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to evade combat, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you choose to stand your ground and fight the partisans, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses reveal that this ancient burial mound contains the evil spirits of 100 Cener Druids, who were slain and incarcerated here many centuries ago. These restless ghosts haunt the wooded isle, preying on the life-force of any humans who dare set foot here. You watch with a mixture of fascination and horror as the phantoms gradually overcome the robed follower and attach themselves to his twitching body like a host of spectral leeches.</p>
- <p>Chilled by what you have seen and anxious to avoid a similar fate, you leave the quarry and venture deeper into the dark forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect304-1-foot" idref="sect304-1">
- <p>Depending on your interpretation of the rules, you may decide to forego the use of a shield for the duration of this combat. All weapon-like Special Items should be treated just as normal weapons for determination of whether or not you may use them in this combat (e.g. you cannot use the Silver Bow of Duadon but you may use the Sommerswerd).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The jolt leaves you breathless but otherwise unharmed. As you recover your composure you hear a scrabbling sound deep within the rock-face. Suddenly a section of the sheer wall crumbles away, exposing the head of a ghastly worm-like creature with huge clacking mandibles. You have disturbed a hungry Lapillibore and it is intent on eating you alive.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The head of a ghastly worm-like creature with<br />huge clacking mandibles is exposed</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="623" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="623" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Lapillibore</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your precarious position, deduct 3 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight. To prevent yourself from falling into the gorge you can fight using <a id="sect304-1" idref="sect304-1-foot" class="footnote">only a weapon that can be used with one hand (a sword, mace, axe, dagger, short sword or warhammer).</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the moment of his death, a cone of black fire erupts from the stave and engulfs the Ziran's body. The guttering ebony flames howl like a pack of demons as they form into a small cyclone and ascend into the sky. Swiftly you take hold of the injured Prince, heave him across your shoulder and carry him away from the black tornado that is sucking chunks of temple debris into its spinning core.</p>
- <p>Once you are a safe distance from the temple, you lower the Prince gently to the ground and watch the cyclone ebb and fade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dozen horses, bridled and furnished with coverings of black and gold, stand tethered to an obelisk of stone. Two leather-clad soldiers sit nearby, sharing a pipe of aromatic tobacco as they gamble at cards. They each wear an emblem on their shoulder, which is also embroidered upon the horse's saddle cloths: it is a gold portcullis on a black crest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you have travelled the Stornlands of Central Magnamund in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you have never been to the Stornlands, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I can help you, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, his warrior pride restored by the thought of avenging his cruel imprisonment. <quote>I know where the Lorestones are being held and I will take you there.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect88"><link-text>Turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Since the first rays of dawn light brightened the eastern sky, the streets of Luomi echoed to the shouts of sergeants and the crunch of booted feet. The regiments of Lencia and Eru are taking their places in the column of march, and by mid-morning this column, 6500 strong, is ready to leave for battle. Company by company, through the city's east gate, they depart, tramping the dusty road that leads to Cetza. When the time comes for you to join them you take your place with Prince Graygor's escort and fall in line behind the armoured knights of the Palace Guard.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The army is well protected by Lencian horse scouts before, behind and on both sides, to make sure it is not ambushed whilst crossing the twenty miles of open grasslands to Cetza. During the afternoon a troop of scouts are sent ahead to spy on the enemy. They return to report that Baron Shinzar has fortified the town and received reinforcements from Blackshroud since his defeat at Luomi. The news does not cheer Prince Graygor, for he knows the ground around Cetza does not favour the attacker.</p>
- <p>It is dusk when the army arrives on the outskirts of the town. In the gloom you can see the enemy campfires flickering between the ruins of cottages that were destroyed when the Drakkarim first invaded this land. Occasionally their gruff voices can be heard on the chill evening wind as they shout orders and call the names of slaves and attendants. After a whole tiring day's marching, and with night drawing close, the order goes round that there will be no battle offensive this evening. Quickly the regiments disperse and many fires are lit. Tents are erected for the knights and the baggage carts are unloaded to provide the men with stores that should make their night in the open less uncomfortable. The Prince chooses to position his headquarters on a hill to the north that overlooks the town, and King Sarnac of Lencia chooses a similar position on a hill beyond the road, half a mile to the south. Shortly after the tents are constructed, a message arrives from King Sarnac's headquarters, inviting the Prince to join him and draw up plans for tomorrow's battle. The Prince accepts the invitation and says that you may accompany him if you wish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to accompany the Prince to King Sarnac's headquarters, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you choose to decline the invitation, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you dispatch the last of the amphibians, Jarel grabs hold of the oars and begins to row with all his might. But you have covered only a short distance when there is a loud crack and a sharpened wooden stake rips through the bottom of the boat. The tiny craft rocks violently as a tall fountain of water gushes through the torn planks. Then suddenly the boat capsizes and you are pitched head-first into the murky river.</p>
- <p>A webbed hand claws your leg (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but you kick out savagely and break free of its clammy grip. Free of your unseen attacker, you strike out for the south bank and drag yourself, cold and shaken, up on to the muddy shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226"><link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The axe bites into your side as you dive to avoid it. You roll with the blow, tumbling over when you hit the ground to lessen the shock of impact, but the wound you have suffered is severe and you are too weak to rise immediately: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw a weapon and slap the sole of Jarel's boot to awaken him.</p>
- <p><quote>What the&ellips;!?</quote> he splutters, as he sits up and rubs his sleepy eyes. But before you can say anything, you hear another of the fish-like things; it is behind you, clambering over the upturned boat. You spring to your feet and Jarel just manages to unsheathe his sword as the creatures attack simultaneously.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bhakish</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These swamp dwellers are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lash out and the beast twists in mid-air as your blow hits its side. But the wound you have dealt it is superficial and not enough to deter it from attacking. It lands close to Jarel and immediately regains its balance to leap again. This time its intended victim is not your companion: it is you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Taintor Wolf (wounded)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stoically your horse climbs the difficult track out of the valley towards the crest. You hope to catch sight of your destination from this ridge of high ground, but because of the lush foliage you can see little of what lies ahead. Densely packed trees and bushes reduce visibility to less than a dozen yards.</p>
- <p>It strikes you as the perfect environment for guerrilla warfare, and you can readily understand how Sebb Jarel and his partisans have managed to ambush and evade the Drakkarim so effectively for two years. Further along the narrow trail you come across the grisly remains of one such ambush. A score of severed Drakkarim heads, still encased in skull-like helms of black iron, have been impaled upon a line of wooden stakes. They serve as a grim warning of what awaits any Drakkar who dares to venture beyond this point.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before you continue further.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291"><link-text>Turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A strong aura of evil and treachery pervades the entire area, and your senses detect that you are not alone&emdash;the building is occupied. Forewarned by your psychic skills, you avoid approaching the clearing. Under cover of the dense undergrowth you make your way around to the rear of the building where you witness a curious scene.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Few of the creatures have any hair and their gnarled brown skin is as shiny as oiled leather. They shuffle forward awkwardly on short bowed legs, their mouths hanging open to reveal rotten fangs and swollen purple tongues. Their leader fixes you with a cruel stare as he orders his warriors to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Krorn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you scramble out of the ditch and sprint back along the road towards the allies' encampment.</p>
- <p><quote>Zaj gaz! Zaj gaz!</quote> howl the Drakkarim defenders as they catch sight of your shadow-like form, and a clutch of black arrows hiss through the air. One clips your shoulder and another gouges your leg (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but you fight the pain and run on without making a sound that could direct an arrow to your heart.</p>
- <p>Fifty yards from the allies' picket line you see two Lencian men-at-arms moving towards you with their swords drawn. <quote>Give the password!</quote> they shout. <quote>Give the password or perish!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you answer, <quote>Shortsword</quote>, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you answer, <quote>Longsword</quote>, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you answer, <quote>Broadsword</quote>, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before attempting the jump, you cut away the briars that might otherwise ensnare your feet and pitch you head-first into the gorge. The gap is a little over twelve feet wide, but with a clear run-up you feel confident you can traverse it in one bound. The only disadvantage is the weight of your equipment.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to remove your Backpack and Weapons and throw them across the gorge before you jump, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you choose to jump whilst carrying your equipment, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than half of the Palmyrion men-at-arms have survived the devastating attack. They reel back towards the courtyard and you manage to pull them into a circle just in time to defend against the Drakkarim who are charging along the street.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Garrison</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai senses save you from the sniper's shaft: it whistles past harmlessly as you dive for cover. As you rise to your feet you spot your would-be assassin hastily reloading his bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you choose to evade the sniper by running along an alley to your left, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The advancing Death Knights skid to a halt when they see you emerge from the shadows. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ruzzar!</quote></foreign> bellows their leader, and quickly they unsheathe their swords and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Élite Death Knights</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A trumpet announces the arrival of Prince Graygor's men as they swarm around the west side of the square. Baron Shinzar screams in anger and lifts his axe on high, daring them all to step forward and feel its lethal caress. His offer is met by a dozen arrows, loosed by Eruan archers from the houses bordering the square, but the shafts are drawn to the blade of the sorcerous axe where they disintegrate in a sizzling splash of glowing splinters. With an evil laugh, the Baron mounts his charger and gallops through the soldiers, cutting down those brave enough to stand in his way. But as he leaves the town he finds his escape blocked by a new and formidable enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110"><link-text>Turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you dive beneath the bridge and wait with bated breath as the horsemen approach. They thunder across the bridge, and when you can no longer hear their hoofbeats pounding the rocky road, you climb out of your hiding place and continue northwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Again a crackling bolt of blue-white fire lances from the hilltop ruins and strikes with lethal accuracy. Screams of terror rend the air as the unslain soldiers fall apart in a desperate, panic-stricken flight to escape the fate that has befallen their slain comrades. Your Kai senses draw your eyes away from this carnage to focus on a figure clad in silver mail and a gold-spiked helmet. He is crouching on the highest point of the dilapidated temple wall and you sense that his magical power is the source of the deadly blasts. Quickly you inform the Prince of what you have sensed and seen at the temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your powers of telescopic vision you focus on the ruined log huts and scan them for signs of life. A dull glint of sunlight on tarnished steel and a glimpse of a scarlet-clad figure moving behind an open doorway warn you that the settlement is occupied. You cast your eyes along the river for an alternative place to cross. But it is only here that the deep, fast-flowing waters of the River Brol are shallow enough to cross on horseback.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to gallop towards the ford, despite the risk of an ambush, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you choose to avoid the ford and try to cross the river further downstream instead, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you cross the raging river, leaping from one boulder to the next. The sun warms your body but you feel an unexpected chill as soon as you set foot on the opposite bank. Instinctively you know that this is the Isle of Ghosts Prince Graygor spoke of so fearfully.</p>
- <p>A stony trail leads into the heart of the mist-enshrouded trees. It is partially overgrown with saw-briar, which tears mercilessly at your boots and leggings. Undaunted, you press on until forced to stop at the edge of a narrow chasm that bisects the trail. A tangle of yellowed bones lie at the bottom and a damp unwholesome smell rises from a number of tiny caves which riddle its sheer walls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to attempt to jump across this narrow chasm, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to look for a way round it, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch the amulet from Roark's lifeless hand and then turn to confront Tagazin. You sense an energy flowing between Roark's amulet and the amulet that hangs around the Demonlord's neck, and you use this power-bridge to ward off the creature.</p>
- <p>Tagazin shudders as your psychic commands rob him of his supernatural strength. His body becomes pale, almost transparent, and wisps of smoke curl from his skin as though his body was evaporating slowly. He retreats towards the centre of the temple and leaps on to the marble block. There is a chilling howl and suddenly the shadowy chamber is flooded with a blinding light. Thunder booms and the walls shake. Terrified, Roark's followers flee the temple and scramble up the stairs. Crackling bolts of white lightning leap from the marble block to tear great chunks of rock from the walls, and the air seethes with a cloying stench that threatens to suffocate you. With terror in your heart you bound up the steps and escape as the defeated spirit of the Demonlord vents its spite on the chamber below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to consciousness with a throbbing headache. A circle of bristle-bearded faces swim in and out of focus, staring down at you as if you were a fish in a bowl. You try to rise but are discouraged from doing so by the point of a sword that hovers above your heart. As your vision slowly clears you realize that you are no longer in the gorge, and the faces you see belong to a company of crimson-clad partisans.</p>
- <p><quote>It was careless of you to wander into Lacaress Gorge, Pathfinder,</quote> says a tall, lantern-jawed sergeant. <quote>What were you hoping to find there save a good night's sleep?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I came with Prince Graygor's leave,</quote> you say, showing your signet ring as proof. <quote>I am here on a secret mission of great urgency. I must speak with your leader, Sebb Jarel.</quote></p>
- <p>The sergeant inspects your ring carefully. <quote>Very well,</quote> he says, and sheathes his sword. <quote>We shall take you to Sebb, but you must agree to be blindfolded.</quote> You nod your assent and a yard of cloth is wound about your eyes. Guided by the sergeant, you are helped on to your horse and the reins given into the hands of one of his men. After two hours in the saddle, you reach your destination and the blindfold is removed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your Kai skill on the detent, willing it to move aside. It clicks back and the door opens on to a passage lined with torches. Halfway along there is another door&emdash;a solid slab of iron broken only by a small, barred window. Silently you approach this door and peer in through the grille.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you have visited the Danarg in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blinking the sleep from your eyes, you scramble to your feet and reach to your weapons. <quote>Stand back to back,</quote> whispers Jarel, his keen eyes peeled for a sign of the beast among the densely packed trees. You remember hearing tales of the Taintor wolves during your travels through Eru, of their cruelty, speed and savage cunning. At the time you thought the stories were greatly exaggerated, but now you are not so sure.</p>
- <p><quote>There, over there!</quote> hisses Jarel, pointing to a knot of pines with the tip of his sword. A scream rises from the darkness, which becomes a howl, high-pitched and horrible. The dark foliage rustles, then a massive wolf-like creature bursts into view and runs towards you, its eyes rolling and its long, yellow fangs gaping wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If not, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When he opens his fist you see that the coin shows <quote>tails</quote>. <quote>Fate has chosen you for this heroic task, Kai lord,</quote> he says, and hands you the leather satchel containing the crystal explosive. <quote>My men will cover you with their crossbows when you make your run. Place the device so that the shard faces the door and remember, you have only ten seconds to get back once it is activated.</quote></p>
- <p>You shoulder the satchel and, as Adamas gives the order to his men to fire, you scramble over the rampart and sprint towards the great iron door.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add a further 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If your total is now 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If it is 2&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I see you wear the Prince's mark,</quote> he says, pointing at your signet ring with the tip of his blade. <quote>Be you running an errand on his behalf?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye,</quote> you answer, mimicking the Eruan accent to perfection with the help of your Magnakai Discipline. <quote>An errand of great urgency. Do you know where I might find Sebb Jarel?</quote></p>
- <p>The man laughs and slaps his thigh. <quote>Aye, that I do,</quote> he says, jovially. <quote>He's my brother. You'll find him encamped at the foot o' Hawkridge Mountain. Stay on the trail to Pirsi until you reach the old mining settlement of Kaig. Then take the track that follows the stream. Just keep on ridin' and you'll find ol' Sebb soon enough.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank him for his help and hospitality and turn to leave. As you reach the doorway he calls out: <quote>Be watchful when you enter the forest. There's a pack o' Akataz on the loose. If they catch scent o' your horse they'll be down on you quicker than lightning.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The surviving Drakkarim scatter into the surrounding alleys and you are able to advance towards the centre of Torgar unopposed. The Palmyrions meet up with their regiment and you continue alone along the dingy thoroughfare. It leads to an open square where a conical tower of iron points accusingly at the sky. Here the flagstones vibrate to a continuous throbbing that beats like a gigantic pulse somewhere deep in the bowels of the city. The battle has drawn most of the Drakkarim away from this square and you have no difficulty in reaching the tower and entering it via an open archway. A corridor of steel lies beyond, empty save for the constant din that assails your ears. Countless passages lead off from the main corridor, all sloping downwards, and many occupied by Drakkarim warriors. The passages are poorly lit and it is easy to avoid your enemies until you reach a vast stairway bathed in a bright orange glow that radiates from a level below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With one swipe of his huge white paw, he hooks his claws into your tunic and flings you across the temple. Shocked by his speed and ferocity, you scramble to your feet and fumble for a hand weapon as he stalks after you like a cat teasing a frightened mouse. His face is set in a ghastly sneer as he enjoys the novelty of his mortal form.</p>
- <p>Around his neck, on a chain of black iron, hangs an amulet forged in the shape of a fiery, five-pointed star. You notice that Roark possesses a similar amulet which he clutches to his chest as if his very life depended on it. He and his followers are huddled in a corner of the temple, watching you and their master fearfully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you wish to attack the Demonlord with your weapon, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you wish to try to cut the amulet from his neck, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you wish to attack Roark and take the amulet he is holding, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seconds after leaving the ditch, another hail of deadly arrows whistles down and you are forced to dive for cover to avoid being hit. When you rise once more it is to the sight of your horse rearing up on his hind legs and scrabbling the air frantically with his forehooves. An arrow has pierced his skull and you watch with sorrow as he topples and crashes lifelessly into the mud.</p>
- <p>All the other riderless horses are either dead or have fled the field in panic. Left with no choice, you scramble out of the mud and set off after the Prince on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you cross the rocky causeway, taking care to tread on only those stones that rise above the foaming white torrent, and you enter the Moggador Forest as quickly as the dense trees will allow. The ground rises steeply and it is dusk before your climb ends at the crest of a ridge overlooking the Isle of Ghosts. In less than an hour it will be dark, so you decide to camp here on the ridge and continue at first light (you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You are preparing to settle down on a bed of leaf mould when the howl of a timber wolf prompts you to abandon your soft mattress and spend the night in the bough of a tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow creases the creature's skull and disappears into the darkness beyond. It howls at the sudden pain but does not cease its attack. The wolf is now upon you and there is no time to draw a hand weapon to ward off the first snap of its great yellow fangs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Taintor Wolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must fight the first round of combat unarmed. At the start of the second round you may draw a weapon (if you possess one) and fight the beast as normal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the fight lasts longer than four rounds, do not continue but <link-text>turn instead to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>What manner of deceit is this?</quote> he growls accusingly. <quote>Know you this, your tricks and your tortures will never break my spirit, for I am of the Vakeros and we are slave to no man!</quote></p>
- <p>Your Kai senses tell you that he is speaking the truth&emdash;he is a Vakeros warrior-magician of Dessi. Certain now of his truthfulness, you decide to reveal to him your real identity.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knight warrior appears, his huge black form silhouetted in the archway. You grip your weapon tightly and prepare to strike him a fatal blow should he see you hiding in the shadows, but you do not need to attack. He snatches up the spear in his mailed fist, turns and hauls himself out of the ditch, grunting and cursing his carelessness as he struggles in his heavy armour.</p>
- <p>You wait twenty minutes before leaving the bridge and working your way slowly along the ditch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The officer looks at you as if you are insane. <quote>The crazy fool thinks he's a Kai lord,</quote> he says scornfully to his men as he climbs back into his saddle. <quote>The foul air of this wilderness has addled his brains. Let us ride on; we've wasted too much time here already.</quote></p>
- <p>He spurs his horse forward and you are forced to dive aside as the riders surge across the bridge and disappear along the road that leads to the Moggador Forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your heart pounding fit to burst, you gulp a lungful of air and leap into the gorge. For a few seconds you lose your orientation as you tumble in the air then you hit the river with a stunning crash: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You soon surface but the current is very strong and you cannot resist being swept along. For over a mile you ride the icy white water until your feet touch some smooth rocks as they speed past below. By kicking out against these boulders you are able to propel yourself towards the bank. Cold and exhausted, you eventually claw your way out of the water and collapse on the rocky shore.</p>
- <p>The jump and your river ride have taken their toll of your possessions. Delete the items you have listed second, third, fifth and seventh in the Backpack section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Also, delete half the contents of your Belt Pouch and one Special Item of your choice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dust clogs your throat and the roar of falling stone is deafening as you race towards the surface. When you reach the ramp that leads to the crystal doors you find it split wide open. A web of cracks zig-zags across the two halves and a growing mound of rubble threatens to seal off the exit. Desperately you claw your way across this jagged debris, passing the bodies of some of Roark's followers, and diving through the shrinking exit just before the ceiling collapses with a tremendous crash.</p>
- <p>Outside the situation is remarkably calm; only a slight ground tremor and a sound like distant thunder hint at the incredible destruction taking place inside the temple. The clearing is deserted and you are beginning to think you are the only one to have escaped, when you hear horses galloping away and glimpse three riders disappearing along a track that heads off to the east. It is nearly dark and they are soon swallowed by the shadows of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to follow them, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you choose to ignore them and spend the night in the clearing, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the partisans you hold up your right hand to display your signet ring. It is enough to convince them that you speak the truth.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> says their sergeant, a tall lantern-jawed man with iron-grey hair. <quote>We shall take you to our leader. But you must agree to wear a blindfold. It is for your own good as well as ours. The Drakkarim torture their prisoners: should you fall into their hands you'll not be able to tell them where we are encamped.</quote> He pulls a length of cloth from his saddlebag and wraps it tightly around your eyes. Then another takes hold of your reins and leads you away from the gorge. After two hours in the saddle you finally reach your destination and the blindfold is removed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A creeping numbness paralyses your limbs and, as your fingers lose their strength, you cannot prevent yourself from falling into the bore-hole after the Black Yua that injected you with its deadly venom.</p>
- <p>You survive the fall but the strength of the venom ensures that you will never escape from the shaft.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With devastating speed and accuracy, you draw your arrows and fire them deep into the hearts of the two enemy archers. Both men stagger and crumple to the ground, but your bowmanship does little to deter their comrades. With a fearsome yell, the three remaining warriors brandish their swords and axes and come thundering towards you. There is no time to evade their attack&emdash;you must fight them to the death!</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The three remaining warriors brandish their swords<br />and axes and come thundering towards you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="591" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="591" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Zagganozod</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the other side of the alley is a line of burnt-out cottages. Their soot-blackened walls are mostly intact, although their roofs have long been open to the sky. The fleeing Drakkarim are beginning to outdistance your men and you fear they will get away, when suddenly they halt and turn to face you.</p>
- <p>At that instant a mass of leather-clad Hammerlanders emerge from the cottages, rending the air with their howling battle-cries. They strike your men from every side, catching them like helpless fish in a barrel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to stand and fight your attackers, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to try to escape from this ambush, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A group of high-ranking warriors are gathered around a table on which lies a map of Ghatan and the Hammerlands. They are engrossed in their plans for an assault across the causeway and they do not notice you enter the tent. The officer speaks with one of the lords, who leaves the table to come and question you.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome Pathfinder,</quote> he says, his keen eyes glinting like two polished gemstones. <quote>I am Adamas, Lord Constable of Garthen, commander-in-chief of the Talestrian army. What news do you bring from Eru?</quote></p>
- <p>Rather than risk raising his suspicions, you tell him of the Eruan-Lencian alliance and their successful struggle against the forces of Baron Shinzar of Blackshroud. He listens with interest to your report, then he asks how you came to be 200 miles from Prince Graygor's army.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you do not possess this skill, you can either say that you are on a secret mission; <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">Or reveal your true identity; <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shouts of the Drakkarim and the rain of their arrows unnerves the guards. They fear it is the prelude to a night attack, and when they see a black-clad figure stumbling towards them and hear him give the wrong password, they panic. <quote>Enemy attack!</quote> they shout, waking a unit of crossbowmen stationed on the high ground behind. They rush to grab their loaded weapons and take aim at the enemy, but the only target they can see is you. <quote>Fire at will!</quote> commands their sergeant.</p>
- <p>A scything wave of iron bolts lifts you off your feet and a terrifying pain tears through your chest. You are mortally wounded and, although you fight to hold on to life, it is a struggle you cannot win.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you are halfway down the staircase a shadow looms into view. Seconds later a Drakkar officer appears and begins to ascend. He is the most repugnant human being you have ever seen. His enormous bloated body bulges with over-developed muscles to the point of deformity and his face is puffy and fat, shiny with sweat, and pitted with disease. A battle wound on his right cheek has scarred badly, drawing that side of his face into an ugly sneer. He sees you and unsheathes a massive, saw-edged scimitar as he strides up the stairs and attacks.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A Drakkarim officer appears&emdash;the most repugnant<br />human being you have ever seen</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Assault-Captain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">31</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow passes clean through the creature's mouth, tearing a jagged hole in its furry jowl. The beast shrieks at the sudden pain and shakes its head, spraying you with thick crimson blood. Maddened by the pain, it snaps its great fangs and rolls its grim yellow eyes as it steadies itself to pounce on you and exact its revenge.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you drop your bow and unsheathe a hand weapon as the wolf springs towards your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Taintor Wolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you win and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If the fight lasts longer than four rounds, do not continue the combat but <link-text>turn instead to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Vengeance is mine, Lone Wolf!</quote> booms the thunderous voice. Terror strikes deep in your heart when you turn and see the ghastly form of Darklord Gnaag, filling the archway through which his minions escaped when first you entered this chamber. A ghastly rasping laugh echoes from his fly-like head as he raises a black crystal and points it at the gantry. <quote>The vow I gave at Tahou shall be fulfilled. Now I shall destroy you and the Lorestones!</quote></p>
- <p>There is a deafening crack and a bolt of blue lightning streaks from the stone held in his pincer-like claw. It shears through the rusty metal and you are peppered with red-hot iron splinters. As the shock wave hits the weakened ball of fire, the two Lorestones are sent tumbling into the black abyss. Then a second bolt from the black stone tears the gantry in two, and with the ghastly laugh of Darklord Gnaag ringing in your ears, you plummet headlong into the icy cold pit.</p>
- <p>You have fallen into a portal of total darkness, a Shadow Gate that leads to the twilight world of Daziarn. The wisdom and strength of the Lorestone of Luomi is now a part of your body and spirit, and the last remaining Lorestones are still within your reach, but your descent into the Daziarn heralds the beginning of a deadly, supernatural episode of the Magnakai Quest.</p>
- <p>If you have the courage of a true Kai master, the wonders and the horrors of the twilight plane await you in Book 11, the penultimate Magnakai adventure, entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.11tpot;">The Prisoners of Time</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Ghatan and Surrounding Territories</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="214" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="aclore.gif" width="385" height="199" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Removed the quotation marks from <quote><foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For further adventuring you can copy out the chart yourself or get it photocopied</quote>. Placed <quote>or below</quote> after <quote>fall to zero</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote>(see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>, replaced <quote>currency of Anari</quote> with <quote>currency of Eru</quote> and replaced <quote>1 Gold Crown</quote> with <quote>one Gold Crown</quote>. Replaced all occurrences of <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of the book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a>) Capitalized <quote>bonuses</quote> in the title <quote>Lore-circle Bonuses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>mid-summer's</quote> with <quote>midsummer's</quote> and <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>. Removed <quote>at the front of the book</quote>. Capitalised both occurrences of <quote>prince</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect9">9</a>) Replaced <quote>battle smoke</quote> with <quote>battle-smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Replaced <quote>rock face</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>battle smoke</quote> with <quote>battle-smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>) Placed the choice leading to <a idref="sect102">Section 102</a> first in the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect78">78</a>) Placed the choice leading to <a idref="sect14">Section 14</a> first in the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>shield wall</quote> with <quote>shield-wall</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>bonuses</quote> with <quote>missile bonuses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>jet black</quote> with <quote>jet-black</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.Placed the choice leading to <a idref="sect139">Section 139</a> first in the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>Elite</quote> with <quote>Élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Replace <quote>crosslegged</quote> with <quote>cross-legged</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replace <quote>creamy-coloured</quote> with <quote>cream-coloured</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>pack move</quote> with <quote>pack moves</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Replaced <quote>north a</quote> with <quote>north, a</quote> and <quote>Kraagenskul</quote> with <quote>Kraagenskûl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>Bolas</quote> with <quote>bolas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Changed the list of items to initial capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>battle smoke</quote> with <quote>battle-smoke</quote>, <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>, and <quote>battle frenzy</quote> with <quote>battle-frenzy</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stains</quote> with <quote>bloodstains</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Replaced <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Changed the list of items to initial capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Replaced <quote>water-course</quote> with <quote>watercourse</quote> and <quote>inky-black</quote> with <quote>inky black</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Placed the choice leading to <a idref="sect302">Section 302</a> first in the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>unmistakeable</quote> with <quote>unmistakable</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>battle frenzy</quote> with <quote>battle-frenzy</quote>, <quote>war horns</quote> with <quote>war-horns</quote>, and <quote>shield wall</quote> with <quote>shield-wall</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect214">214</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>) Replaced <quote>lifeforce</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-lust</quote> with <quote>bloodlust</quote> and <quote>curled-up</quote> with <quote>curled up</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Replaced <quote>crosslegged</quote> with <quote>cross-legged</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect271">271</a>) Changed the list of items to initial capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack items or weapons</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items or Weapons</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced <quote>war horn</quote> with <quote>war-horn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Replaced <quote>bonuses</quote> with <quote>missile bonuses</quote> and <quote>. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery,</quote> with <quote>and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) Replaced <quote>Cenerese druids</quote> with <quote>Cenerese Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>rockface</quote> with <quote>rock-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect317">317</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack and weapons</quote> with <quote>Backpack and Weapons</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>Elite</quote> with <quote>Élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>hill-top</quote> with <quote>hilltop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>heads</quote> with <quote>tails</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Replaced <quote>zig-zag</quote> with <quote>zig-zags</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>Zaggonozod</quote> with <quote>Zagganozod</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>out-distance</quote> with <quote>outdistance</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote> and <quote>book 11</quote> with <quote>Book 11</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) There is no choice that leads to this section of the book. It is exactly the same as <a idref="sect299">Section 299</a> and therefore superfluous.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) You may not use the Silver Bow of Duadon in this combat. If you have reached the rank of Tutelary and possess the Discipline of Weaponmastery, you only need to deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> if you are unarmed.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) You must win the combat before continuing.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Kika are a form of currency used in the Darklands and the Drakkarim nations. Each coin is worth one-tenth of a Gold Crown and ten Kika take up the same space as one Gold Crown in your Belt Pouch.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) You must win the combat before continuing.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) If you automatically kill Tagazin, he doesn't die but is severely weakened. You should still turn to <a idref="sect20">Section 20</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Depending on your interpretation of the rules, you may decide to forgo the use of a shield for the duration of this combat. All weapon-like Special Items should be treated just as normal weapons for determination of whether or not you may use them in this combat (e.g. you cannot use the Silver Bow of Duadon but you may use the Sommerswerd).</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect6">Section 6</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect28">Section 28</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect51">Section 51</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect77">Section 77</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect88">Section 88</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect113">Section 113</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect116">Section 116</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect126">Section 126</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect148">Section 148</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect172">Section 172</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect187">Section 187</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect208">Section 208</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect230">Section 230</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect244">Section 244</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect252">Section 252</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect280">Section 280</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect301">Section 301</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect304">Section 304</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect344">Section 344</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect348">Section 348</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Ghatan and Surrounding Territories</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect78">Section 78</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect85">Section 85</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect93">Section 93</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect94">Section 94</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect141">Section 141</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect160">Section 160</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect163">Section 163</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect168">Section 168</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect231">Section 231</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect273">Section 273</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect300">Section 300</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
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- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
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-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
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- <data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
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-<!--
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-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.5 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
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-Revision 1.4 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
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-<meta>
- <title>The Prisoners of Time</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>Swiftly you draw the broadsword over your head and take aim at the Chaos-master's heart, yet even as you make your lunge he catches sight of you and twists to avoid your thrust. The sharp blade opens a fearful gash in his side but it misses its vital target. With a roar of agony the evil god staggers back, dropping his club as he clasps his side. Pain swiftly turns to a rage that fills him with a lust for vengeance and, with a hideous scream, he lunges at you with his gore-stained hands.&ellips;</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1987 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1987 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
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- <p class="dedication">To Ron and Clarice</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
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- <data>
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- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Andrew Gable (Sections 36&endash;70)<br />Simon Osborne (front matter, Sections 1&endash;35, 141&endash;210, 246&endash;350)<br />Matthew Reynolds (Sections 106&endash;140, 211&endash;245)<br />Tony Wrigley (Sections 71&endash;105)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Simon Osborne<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Ingo Klöcker</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Peter Smyth</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
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- <data>
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies&emdash;the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p> Many centuries have passed since Sun Eagle, the first of your kind, established the Order of the Kai. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he completed a perilous quest to find seven crystals of power known as the Lorestones of Nyxator, and upon their discovery he unlocked a wisdom and strength that lay within both the Lorestones and himself. He recorded the nature of his discoveries and his experiences in a great tome entitled The Book of the Magnakai. You have discovered this lost Kai treasure and have given a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, thereby ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. However, your diligent study of this ancient book has enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. To fulfil your pledge, you must complete the quest first undertaken by Sun Eagle over a thousand years ago. By doing so successfully, you, too, will acquire the power and wisdom of the Magnakai, which is held within the Lorestones' crystal forms.</p>
- <p>Already your quest has taken you far from your northern homeland. Following in the footsteps of the first Kai Grand Master, you journeyed to Dessi and sought the help of the Elder Magi, the magicians who aided Sun Eagle on his quest long ago. There you learned that for centuries the Elder Magi had awaited your coming. An ancient Dessi legend tells of the birth and rise to greatness of two <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, which means <quote>sons of the sun</quote>. One was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, which means <quote>eagle</quote>, and the other was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, which means <quote>wolf</quote>. A prophecy foretold that the <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign> would each come from the north to seek the counsel of the Elder Magi in order that they might fulfil a great quest. Although separated by several centuries, they would share one spirit, one purpose and one destiny&emdash;to triumph over the champions of darkness in an age of great peril. The Elder Magi knew that you were <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>&emdash;the wolf of Dessi legend&emdash;and in keeping with their ancient vows they promised to help you complete the Magnakai quest.</p>
- <p>In Elzian, the capital of Dessi, you were tutored in the histories of Magnamund and received lessons in lore that you would have learned from the Kai masters if only they, like you, had survived the murderous Darklord attack on the Kai monastery twelve years ago. You were eager to learn all that your tutor, Lord Rimoah, could teach you in preparation for the next stage of your quest, but grim news from the Darklands cut short your tuition. In the Darklord city of Helgedad a civil war had erupted, following your defeat of Haakon, Archlord of the Black City. After five years, the battle for the throne of Helgedad had finally been won by a Darklord called Gnaag. The other Darklords, now united behind this new leader, were ordered to amass huge armies in preparation for the conquest of Magnamund. Swiftly their Giak legions grew in number, enabling Gnaag to launch a sweeping invasion that was to catch the freelands unprepared. Many countries were completely overrun by Darklord armies; others surrendered without fighting, and sadly there were those who chose to betray former friends and allies by joining the Darklord cause, in the misguided hope that they would share in the spoils of victory, following the triumph of Darklord Gnaag. One such land was Vassagonia, a powerful desert realm to the north of Dessi. It mobilized its formidable army and marched west to join Gnaag's horde as it steamrollered across central Magnamund. They were destined to meet at the city of Tahou where, beneath the ancient streets, lay hidden one of the seven Lorestones of Nyxator. You set off in haste for Tahou and arrived barely hours ahead of the enemy. Successfully you made your descent and discovered the object of your quest, but on returning to the surface you found Tahou transformed into a blazing inferno. Darklord Gnaag and Zakhan Kimah, the cruel ruler of Vassagonia, had learnt of your presence and were determined to destroy you at all costs. For days their engines of war had hurled fire and rock across the walls of Tahou with devastating effect. Then a massive assault, led by the Zakhan himself, breached the city gate and gained entry to the burning capital. Armed with a weapon of awesome power, the evil Zakhan sought you out and challenged you to a fight to the death. The struggle was desperate but you emerged victorious and led the Anarians in a counter-attack that cleared the city of the invading foe. The allies of Anari arrived to raise the siege and in the ensuing battle the demoralized armies of Gnaag and Kimah were smashed and routed.</p>
- <p> Your defeat of Zakhan Kimah turned the tide of war decisively against the Darklord armies and paved the way for the liberation of the lands they had taken by force. But the sweet taste of victory turned sour when you discovered that Darklord Gnaag had captured the last three remaining Lorestones of Nyxator, and had vowed to avenge his defeat by destroying them and killing you. Alarmed by this, the High Council of the Elder Magi joined you in Tahou to help formulate a plan of action. They had already received word from Prince Graygor, the ruler of Eru, that three radiant gems filled with golden light had been transported to the fortress of Torgar from the Darklord city of Mozgôar. Unable to tolerate the goodly power of the Lorestones within his own domain, Gnaag had been forced to move them to Torgar where his sorcerers&emdash;the Nadziranim&emdash;set about searching for a means to destroy them. Fearing that they might achieve their task, the Elder Magi made preparations for your secret journey to Eru and, in order to safeguard your true identity, you adopted the guise of a Pathfinder&emdash;one of Prince Graygor's élite woodland scouts.</p>
- <p>After a long and perilous journey you arrived at Torgar to find it besieged by the armies of Talestria and Palmyrion. During the early months of the Darklord invasion, hundreds of Talestrians were enslaved and sent to labour in the dungeons and sulphur mines deep within the bowels of this grim city-fortress. Their plight seemed hopeless until the allied armies, under the command of Lord Adamas of Garthen, finally arrived to liberate them. Due in part to your bravery and skill during the assault, Lord Adamas's troops were able to breach the great Torgar gate and storm its citadel. During this fierce battle you gained entry to the chamber at the heart of the citadel where the Nadziranim were attempting to destroy the Lorestones. They were hung above a circular black pit and suspended in a fireball of negative energy, the focal point of several beams of power emanating from crystals set around the edge of the pit. By means of a gantry you were able to climb above these energy beams and retrieve one of the Lorestones. But, as you reached out for the remaining two, a terrible voice filled the chamber.</p>
- <p><quote>Vengeance is mine, Lone Wolf!</quote> Terror struck deer in your heart as you turned and saw the ghastly form of Darklord Gnaag. A rasping laugh echoed from his fly-like head as he raised a black crystal and pointed it at the gantry. <quote>The vow I gave at Tahou shall be fulfilled. Now I shall destroy you and the Lorestones!</quote> he gloated.</p>
- <p>There was a deafening crack and a bolt of blue lightning leapt from the stone towards the rusty iron gantry. As the shock wave hit the fireball the two remaining Lorestones were sent tumbling into the black abyss. A second bolt ripped the gantry in two and, with the ghastly laugh of Darklord Gnaag ringing in your ears, you fell headlong into a portal of total darkness, a Shadow Gate which leads to the twilight world of the Daziarn Plane.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 11. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You many choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (Books 6&endash;12).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta><title>Animal Control</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
-<p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta><title>Curing</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta><title>Invisibility</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta><title>Psi-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but -2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta><title>Psi-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta><title>Divination</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 11 of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in Book 12. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, which is called <cite><a href="&link.12tmod;">The Masters of Darkness</a></cite>.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz" />
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-1-foot" idref="equipmnt-1">
- <p>You have no opportunity to use safekeeping at the Monastery or Dessi at the beginning of this adventure. It is therefore inappropriate for you to store surplus items in safekeeping or likewise to retrieve any. Items that may already be stored there will be safe, but you may not add any more at the beginning of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="equipmnt-2-foot" idref="equipmnt-2">
- <p>You have no opportunity to use safekeeping at the Monastery or Dessi at the beginning of this adventure. It is therefore inappropriate for you to store surplus items in safekeeping or likewise to retrieve any. Items that may already be stored there will be safe, but you may not add any more at the beginning of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures</strong> you will already possess equipment and Special Items, which you may now use during your adventure in the Daziarn (pass over this section and turn instead to the <a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a> section). However, if this is your first Lone Wolf adventure, you will need to equip yourself with weapons and provisions in order to help you survive the perils ahead.</p>
-
- <p>You are dressed in the grey tunic of an Eruan Pathfinder. You possess a Backpack containing 2 Meals (note these in the <quote>Meals</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and a leather pouch containing Gold Crowns. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. In addition you may take six items from the list below:</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Lantern (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="lantern.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="lantern.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Mace (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mace.gif" width="386" height="137" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="mace.pdf" width="386" height="137" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>3 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103" />
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the six items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Lantern&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.<a id="equipmnt-1" idref="equipmnt-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve.<a id="equipmnt-2" idref="equipmnt-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as −3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta><title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will steadily improve. If you have reached the rank of Primate (four skills), Tutelary (five skills), Principalin (six skills), Mentora (seven skills) or Scion-kai (eight skills), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="primate">
- <meta><title>Primate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tutelary">
- <meta><title>Tutelary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a weapon, Tutelaries lose only 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, instead of the usual 4 points.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill when hiding from an enemy by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defences against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities. However, this improved Discipline can be negated if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prncpln">
- <meta><title>Principalin</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this skill are able to call on a woodland animal (if nearby) to aid them, either in combat, or to act as a messenger or guide. The number of animals that can be summoned increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Principalins are able to mask any sounds made by their movements while using this skill.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this Magnakai Discipline are able to intensify their eyesight at will, giving them telescopic vision.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Principalins using this skill in combat are able to confuse an enemy by planting seeds of doubt in its mind. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this ability can extinguish fires by force of will alone. The size of the fire, and the number that can be extinguished using Nexus increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mentora">
- <meta><title>Mentora</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras skilled in Weaponmastery are more accurate when using all missile weapons, whether fired (e.g., a bow) or thrown (e.g., a dagger). When using a bow or thrown weapon and instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, add 2 to the number picked if you are a Mentora with the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras with this skill are able to neutralize the effects of any poisons, venoms or toxins with which they come into contact.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to cross any kind of terrain on foot without leaving any tracks, even if the ground is covered in snow.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras with this ability can protect themselves from evil spirits and other non-corporeal beings that attack with psychic energy. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras who possess this skill are able to detect psychic residues lingering in a place where a dramatic event, such as a battle, a murder, a ritual sacrifice or a ritual ceremony, has taken place. By meditating at the scene of the incident, a Kai Mentora is able to visualize the event, even though it may have occurred in the distant past.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="scion">
- <meta><title>Scion-kai</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>When entering combat with a weapon they have mastered, Scion-kai may add 4 points (instead of the usual 3 points) to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Also, when in combat without a weapon they lose only 1 point from their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Scion-kai are able to alter their physical appearance at will in order to deceive an enemy. The duration and effectiveness of this deception increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Scion-kai with this ability are able to converse with any sentient creature. They are also able to make themselves invisible when subjected to any psychic or magical spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>When engaging in psychic combat Scion-kai are able to absorb and control some of the energies directed at them. By deflecting or inducing the hostile energy they can either reduce the damage they sustain, or increase the power of their own psychic attacks.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Scion-kai are able to leave their body in a state of suspended animation and, in spirit form, explore their immediate surroundings unhindered by physical limitations. This ability is called <quote>spirit walking</quote>. The length of time a Kai Master can spirit walk increases as he rises in rank. When the spirit is separated from the body in this fashion, the body remains inanimate and vulnerable to attack. If a Kai Master's body is killed whilst he is spirit walking, his spiritual self will also cease to exist, and vice versa.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Magnakai Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Disciplines section of the next Lone Wolf adventure.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="kaiwisdm-1-foot" idref="kaiwisdm-1">
- <p>Due to several unavoidable, difficult combats in this book, it is practically impossible for a new or average character to complete this adventure successfully. Even a character with optimal choices of equipment and Disciplines and the highest possible scores for <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> will have a difficult time with this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your visit to the twilight world of the Daziarn will be fraught with supernatural dangers. As you search for the two remaining Lorestones be on your guard at all times, for here even the laws of nature are strange and unstable. Make notes as you progress through this story for they will be of great help, both in this quest and in the ultimate Magnakai adventure which follows it.</p>
- <p>Many things that you find will help you during your mission. Some Special Items will be of use in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep. If this is your first Magnakai adventure be sure to choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice enables any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.<a id="kaiwisdm-1" idref="kaiwisdm-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p> The future of Magnamund and the restoration of your warrior élite depend on the success of your Daziarn quest. May the spirit of your ancestors and the wisdom of the great God Kai guide your journey along the path of the Magnakai.</p>
- <p>Good luck!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All sense of time and space is lost as you plunge headlong into the whirling black throat of the abyss. Only a numbing chill and a mournful sound, like a million voices crying in despair, accompany you on your descent into the unknown. Gradually your mind is filled with fearful visions, nightmare shapes that reach out of the darkness to claw and bite and scream at your passing. They grow in menace until they are swiftly dispelled by diamond-shaped motes of light, which streak past at incredible speeds. The tiny lights engulf you in a cone of fiery brilliance and a metallic smell of ozone, sharp and pungent, assails your nostrils. A sensation of warmth surges through your frozen limbs. Then, an instant later, you strike solid ground with such a suddenness that you are left stunned and panting for breath.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (if you pick 0 it counts as 10). The number you have picked represents the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost during your passage through the Shadow Gate. Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw the Fireseed against the wall of the tomb and it bursts into flame, showering the chaos-creatures with splinters of stone and motes of red fire. Now they screech and squeal and rip each other to pieces in their panic to avoid the searing flames. The Fireseed has saved you from their initial attack but you sense that it is just a temporary reprieve. The whole area is saturated with hundreds of their kind and if you stay here you will be overwhelmed by sheer weight of numbers. Reluctantly you are forced back to the Grand Sepulchre and the three tentacled horrors that command its entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34"><link-text>Turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill you command the sinister reptilian to halt and return to its lair. Immediately, the rustle of its scaly body ceases: it is losing interest now that it can no longer detect your scent. It turns and slithers away, and you hurry up the stairs towards the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave Serocca's chamber and follow T'uk T'ron as he leads you out of the tower and along a busy street towards the city's main square. Three gleaming bronze chariots, each drawn by a team of strange, horse-like creatures called onipa, are ready and waiting to take you to Tolakos. With the Ookor captain you climb aboard the leading chariot and grab the hand-rail as its driver cracks his whip. The onipa surge forward and, in a cloud of thick dust, the chariots race out of the city and along a stony road that cuts through the centre of the valley beyond.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Three hours pass before you catch sight of a village on the road ahead. T'uk T'ron grins and points repeatedly at his open mouth. <quote>You want eat here?</quote> he says, shouting to make himself heard above the incessant rattling of the chariot wheels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you wish to stop at the Ookor village for a meal, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you wish to press on to Tolakos without stopping, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect5-1-foot" idref="sect5-1">
- <p>You do not need to erase a Meal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> when sharing with Arke.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your new scout's name is Arke, a wiry Meledorian with steely grey hair and a lean, scraggy face. He is an expert woodsman and with his help you are able to avoid all contact with marauding remnants of the chaos-horde. The journey to the edge of the Plain of Guakor takes nearly 100 hours, during which time you are able to conserve your food supplies by living off the land. In fact, so bountiful is the Nahgoth Forest that you are able to gather a surplus of food equivalent to 3 Meals (if you wish to keep any of this surplus food, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly).</p>
- <p>You share a Meal with Arke <a id="sect5-1" idref="sect5-1-foot" class="footnote" /> and bid him farewell. Then you check your equipment and consult your map before setting off with trepidation across the barren Plain of Guakor.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Puzzled by its purpose, you step back from the monolith in order to look at it in its entirety. You have taken less than a dozen steps when you hear the rustle of foliage: you are not alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Filling the alcoves and lying on tables of solid silver in the centre of the vault are huge piles of jewels, precious metals, and artefacts of breathtaking beauty. Never have you seen a wealth to rival the hoard surrounding you here. Open-mouthed you wander between the tables, sifting and examining those objects that outshine the vivid brilliance of the rest. One unique item in particular fires your admiration&emdash;a mighty broadsword set with rubies, emeralds, and polished korlinium. Its size and weight are perfectly balanced, and, as you raise it above your head, it hums with a potent magical force locked within its mirror-bright blade.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Ironheart Broadsword, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry strapped across your back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the sword and essay a cut or two to assess its worth. It is a fine weapon, skilfully crafted by an expert smith. Its hilt is bejewelled with emeralds and the curvy blade is engraved with a spectacular fiery dragon. At once you recognize the design and your hopes of retrieving the last Lorestone are revived. It is identical to the symbol you first saw in the Table of Visions: the mark that emblazoned the stone gate of Haagadar.</p>
- <p>You focus your Kai skills on the blade and they confirm your suspicions. The scarlet warrior came from Haagadar, and it is to that distant city that his black-winged mount is now returning with the last Lorestone of the Kai.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search for a solution that will break the spell of holding that secures the door, but your senses tell you that you lack the means to overcome this alien magic. Reluctantly you turn your back on the door and consider your next course of action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to investigate the adjoining room, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you choose to remain in the room, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hack of weapons and the ghastly howls of the attacking chaos-creatures grow louder. The battle noise, especially the dying screams of the Ookor, play upon your mind as you run for the safety of the hills. When eventually you reach the first ridge, you look back at the bridge guiltily in the hope of seeing T'uk T'ron and his guards victorious. But your hope is in vain, for the only creatures alive and triumphant are the grey horde now feasting ghoulishly on the slain.</p>
- <p>Remorse clouds your mind and your senses give no forewarning of the menace skulking nearby. From behind a moss-covered boulder emerge six hideous monstrosities, crouched and snarling, each with the fire of chaos burning in their evil eyes. With a blood-curdling yowl they fall upon you and drag you to your knees.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah Pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the surprise and ferocity of their attack, you are unable to unsheathe a weapon and must fight the first two rounds of combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pain fades but it is replaced by a fearful numbness that drains the strength from your limbs. Odel's face and the canopy of dense branches swirl and grow dim as the toxins of the deadly orange Khetu Spore buds poison your blood. You sink into a deep sleep&emdash;a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hastily you tip your provisions on to the wet, flagstoned floor and run up the stairs as fast as your legs will carry you. Your quick thinking pays off: the gigantic sewer snake stops to consume your food, enabling you to escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your Kai skill you command the waking reptilian to close its eyes and go back to sleep. But the creature is ravenously hungry and, despite your success at masking your body scent, it begins to edge forward in preparation for attack.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 1 point to this number for every Magnakai Discipline you possess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If your total is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You inscribe the symbol and suddenly a blast of cold vapour hits you squarely in the face. You choke and retch as the bitter, poisonous gas seeps into your lungs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scouts spin on their heels to face you, raising their forearms in reflex action at your sudden appearance. <quote>Hold it!</quote> snaps one of them to his companions, who are both on the verge of firing their weapons. <quote>He could be the one.</quote></p>
- <p>Warily they approach and demand that you identify yourself. You tell them who you are and suggest that they look in your pocket if they require proof that you speak the truth. Gingerly, one steps forward.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stumpy little Ookor takes a rapid step backwards when you tell him you do not come from Meledor. Nervously his followers close around him and raise their spears, forming a defensive wall to protect their leader. You assure them that you mean no harm and try to explain how you arrived in their land, but fear and suspicion cloud their eyes until you mention Serocca, the name of the one whose help you seek.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> says L'yan-K'ril, pensively. <quote>We will take you to Serocca, if that is truly your wish.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect35"><link-text>Turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately he tries to avoid your arrow but it penetrates his armour and lodges in the side of his neck. He screams at the sudden pain and tears the offending shaft from his flesh, hurling it back at you contemptuously. Such fortitude is impressive but you can tell that he has suffered a serious wound. Feverishly he scoops the Lorestones into a small velvet sack which hangs from his swordbelt, and you shoulder your bow in favour of a hand weapon as you run forward to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sagely the old Ookor nods her head and retrieves her cards from the table. She bows, and as she turns she mumbles something in her native tongue, before shuffling away to help her daughters gather the empty food bowls.</p>
- <p><quote>She say it sometimes better for warrior not to know his future,</quote> says T'uk T'ron, and rounds off his meal with a hearty belch. <quote>We go now, yes?</quote> You nod and the little Ookor captain orders his company back to the chariots.</p>
- <p>As you prepare to leave you notice the old fortune teller waiting near the door of the hut. She has something in her hand and, as you approach, she offers it to you. It is a large, wooden charm shaped like the wing of a bird. If you wish to keep this Ookor Charm, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep strapped to your Backpack.</p>
- <p>With a wave, you bid farewell to the cheerful villagers and hurry back to your chariot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow grazes the creature's eye then ricochets off its horny lid. The sudden unexpected pain sends the creature into the sky, screeching an agonized cry across the empty plain. Then it turns and flies away to seek the shelter of its lair and nurse its weeping wound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With dread anticipation you stagger to your feet to survey your new surroundings. A bleak and desolate plateau, seemingly devoid of life, stretches into the distance on all sides. Jagged boulders litter a desert of crimson sand, which is stirred to restless motion by fierce and scorching winds. Neither sun nor moon hang in the amber skies above, yet their absence does not leave this world in darkness, for all along the horizon blazes a fire which glows brighter than a thousand sunsets. You stare across this alien landscape and a feeling of helplessness grips your senses as you realize where you have emerged. This is the twilight world of the Daziarn Plane.</p>
- <p>A knot of fear tightens in your stomach as you recall what little you have heard about this world. The magicians of Sommerlund believe it to be an astral corridor that connects Magnamund with other planes of existence. So, by passing through a Shadow Gate, one of which is situated below the Guildhall in Toran, a person can gain entry to the Daziarn. However, those who have passed through the Shadow Gate in Toran have never been seen again and the magicians believe that the journey can be made in only one direction. They say there is no escape from the Daziarn.</p>
- <p>Your vow to restore the Kai and your stubborn will to survive against all odds refuse to let you believe that there is no way back to your home world. You cast aside your fear and steel yourself for the task of finding a means of escaping from this desolate place. But firstly you must recover the two Lorestones that fell into the Shadow Gate shortly before you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow is well aimed and deadly effective. It enters the creature's mouth, skewers its heart, and sends it spinning wildly into the trees amid a spray of foul green blood. Without waiting to discover if it was the only one of its kind, you shoulder your bow and hurry away from the clearing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For his size the warrior is as quick as a cat. At your approach he draws a curvy-bladed sword and prepares to greet you with its razor-sharp edge. You strike first, aiming a blow at his head, but he dodges it and moves continually, presenting you with a hard target to hit. You strike again and this time he panes your blow and turns it back with such strength that you are sent reeling to the edge of the roof.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Scarlet Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you reduce his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to 20 points or less, do not continue the combat but <link-text>turn instead to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you kill him before his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 20 points (that is, if you score an <quote>automatically killed</quote> result on the Combat Results Table), <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I perceive much in your character that pleases me, human. You possess inner strength, honour and a fiery courage uncommon among the mortals of Aon. Were it not for these traits I would have no hesitation in ridding myself of you, for I will not tolerate the weak and untrustworthy in my realm.</quote></p>
- <p>He pauses for a moment and gazes fixedly at the shapes swirling near the centre of the room. <quote>I have looked into your mind and the reasons why you are here in the Daziarn are now known to me. The quests and struggles of Magnamund are of no significance to the Shining City, but there are those of this world who would rejoice to learn that the last of the Kai is here, if only to seek you out and destroy you. For this reason you must leave Yanis. But I shall not send you away without guidance, for you have my respect and I shall help you all I can.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect122"><link-text>Turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wide grin cracks the old Ookor's face. Awkwardly she picks up the cards and shuffles them in her rheumatic hands before asking you to choose three of them at random.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If it is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Below are shown four groups of symbols, only one of which is correct. One group, when inscribed on the blank square, will open the lock that secures the great door.</p>
- <p>Study the symbols carefully and compare them with the other three groups in the illustration accompanying <a idref="sect131">entry 131</a>. When you think you have found the group of symbols that completes the sequence of four, turn to the entry given below it:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="220" height="250" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="220" height="250" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you believe A completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you believe B completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you believe C completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you believe D completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With deceptive ease the leader and two of his followers dismount from their massive, winged steeds. They each dwarf you by an arm's length and, although their heavy, muscular bodies seem incapable of stealth, they approach the cairn with animal grace.</p>
- <p><foreign><quote>Zeeu klo-ka kilkora dau Ztuul n'ra?</quote></foreign> speaks the leader, his voice deep and resonant. <foreign><quote>Ryl'aan noorna?</quote></foreign> says the being by his side, his eyes blazing like twin discs of amber flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Scion-kai, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you do not possess this Magnakai Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you look down from the parapet you are greeted by a stirring sight. Lorkon Ironheart's army is surging into Tolakos, transforming the chaos-choked grounds into a raging battlefield. At their head you see Lorkon, his silver armour and scarlet cloak tarnished with black blood, striking at the enemy with blurring speed and deadly accuracy. He leads a massive wedge of Meledorian warriors whose faces and armour are painted with magical runes to ward off the creatures of chaos. The Agtah melt before them, like ice before a fire, and flee in panic to the dark safety of the Nahgoth. The Meledorians give a rousing cheer of victory to speed the enemy's retreat. But their jubilant cries are soon stifled when, from the depths of the forest, they are answered by a thunderous roar.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Agtah flee in panic before the fierce<br />onslaught of Lorkon Ironheart's army</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="674" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="674" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the centre of each clump of herbs rests a cluster of large, acorn-shaped buds, which exude the sweet pungent aroma that hangs heavily in the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your Magnakai power you will the beam to move while simultaneously pushing it back into position with your feet. Slowly the thick timber inches towards its bedding but, as it is about to drop snugly into place, your concentration is broken by the sound of a quiet, snickering laugh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the Magnakai Disciplines of Divination <em>and</em> Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you do not possess <em>both</em> these skills, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghostly spirit-shapes possess the faces of every enemy you have ever slain. They twist and contort beneath your gaze, their empty eyes burning with cold blue flames as they return your stare. You press your fists to your eyes and scream in an effort to block out this haunting nightmare, but to no avail. It saps your strength and numbs you to the bone: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A thick, sinuous tail whips out from the rear of the creature's scaly body and slams into the cavern wall above your head, gouging a deep furrow in the friable rock. Before it can lash out a second time you unsheathe a hand weapon and strike at its vulnerable eyes.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Khozinda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take aim as he stoops to snatch the Lorestones with his gloved hands. But he is covered in heavy mail and, even at such close range, there are few places where you can be sure that your arrow will pierce his armour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to fire at his visor, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to fire at his throat, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to fire at his chest, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a shrieking squeal as the wheels lock and the chariot slews violently across the road. The driver fights to control his team by pulling on the reins with all his strength, but the heavy leather straps are caught among the traces and the onipa do not respond: the chariot is out of control. Desperately you cling to the hand-rail as one wheel rises and the platform begins to tilt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you do not possess this skill, you can leap from the chariot: <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">Or you can hold on tight and pray that the driver will regain control of the onipa team: <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect34-1-foot" idref="sect34-1">
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, add 2 to any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during this combat, owing to the poisonous lash of their tentacles. (cf. <a idref="sect298">Section 298</a>)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race back across the graveyard and charge headlong into the three creatures blocking the entrance. They bellow and growl as your first blows find their way between their plates of armour. Quickly they retaliate by lashing at you with their long, suckered tentacles. Their attacks are ill-aimed and clumsy, but wherever one of their rubbery limbs touches your body it leaves an angry red weal. <a id="sect34-1" idref="sect34-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <combat><enemy>Octagtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">43</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For several hours you accompany the Ookor across a vast tract of grassland, featureless save for a narrow trail and a line of low hills, which rest on the horizon like a sleeping colossus. During the trek you become very hungry: you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Eventually the trail ascends to the peak of the hills and, as you clear the crest, you see a remarkable sight beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense immediately that the tiny orange growths are poisonous Khetu Spore pods. If swallowed, or if the spores are allowed to infect the bloodstream, the toxin can kill in a matter of minutes.</p>
- <p>If you wish to collect a handful of these Khetu Spores, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has the snarling Agtah dropped lifelessly from your arm than another slams against your back and sends you sprawling face first into the mud. You twist yourself free of its grip and aim a blow at its glistening green head, but its reactions are as fast as yours and your blow cleaves nothing but a furrow in the dark earth. It springs forward once more; you pull up your legs and kick out at its chest, catch it squarely and ram the foul air from its lungs. It howls and lands heavily, but it is back on its feet to meet your next attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah Packleader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">You can evade combat after three rounds by <link-text>turning to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two guards draw themselves upright and grip the hilts of their tarnished swords nervously as they watch you approach.</p>
- <p><quote>What d'you want?</quote> growls the larger of the two, his green, piggy eyes glinting through the slits in his rusty helm. <quote>I've been summoned,</quote> you say with conviction, praying that your bluff is good enough to fool them. <quote>They want to see me straight away.</quote></p>
- <p>The porcine guard swivels his eyes, blinks at his comrade and whispers something you cannot make out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tug the Silver Rod from your belt and hold it before you. A look of surprise widens the leader's eyes but his shock soon turns to anger when he realizes where you obtained the silvery wand. He bellows his contempt for your act of grave-robbery and, in a fit of rage, he releases from his rod a charge of raw power.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If your total is now 3 or more, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If it is 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Something huge and deadly is striding towards Tolakos. The ground trembles beneath its step and the air is filled with sounds of great destruction. The crack and groan of sundered trees and the thunderous growls of a gigantic beast grow steadily louder, driving many of Lorkon's soldiers to the brink of despair. Desperately he tries to rally them but his voice is lost in the deafening noise.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a gap appears at the forest's edge as, effortlessly, a pair of stout trees are pushed apart by monstrous hands. Morbid terror grips the Meledorians and few stand their ground when they see the awesome visage of the Chaos-master looming thirty feet above. You look upon his massive, naked body and feel sickened by what you see. His features are in a constant state of flux, dissolving, merging, and melting into new and ever more hideous shapes. Only Lorkon appears unmoved by the dreadful sight; he raises his sword and challenges the evil being to single combat, but his brave words are met with a howl of derision.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Meledorians flee at the dreadful sight of the Chaos-master<br />looming thirty feet above them</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="601" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="601" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You would challenge a god?</quote> speaks the Chaos-master, his mocking voice unbearably loud. Lorkon remains undaunted by his enemy and repeats his call to combat. The Chaos-master laughs. <quote>Ha! Then let us begin, for though our sport shall be but a brief affair, I will delight in killing such a righteous fool as thou, Lorkon.</quote></p>
- <p>With terrifying ease the Chaos-master uproots a tree, pares away the branches with the edge of his hand, then wields it like a gigantic club. He strides forward, pursuing Lorkon in a grim game of cat and mouse that leaves a trail of destruction wherever they go. The Meledorian relies on luck and fleetness of foot to avoid the crushing blows, but his luck and skill do not last indefinitely. He slips and falls near the wall of the crypt on the roof of which you are crouching. The Chaos-master bellows with glee and strides forward, his club raised to crush Lorkon to an unrecognizable pulp. His loathsome shoulders draw level with the parapet and, as he steadies himself for the coup de grace, he comes within an arm's length of your position.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you possess the Ironheart Broadsword, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you do not possess either of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shadowy riders raise their black hands, and spears of blue fire appear suddenly in their fists. They scream an unearthly cry as they brandish these crackling lances, then they level them at your chest and charge forward to ride you down.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Shadow Reavers (corporeal)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade combat and must fight the supernatural creatures to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A soft, whirring noise emanates from inside the lock, then silently and effortlessly the great portal swings open. With your nerves on edge you enter the dark interior and follow a featureless corridor to another large but less impressive door, which opens at your approach. A surge of damp air whips past you, sucked into the chamber beyond, as the air-tight seal is broken after many decades. Torches ignite spontaneously and, for the first time in its long history, the secrets of the inner sanctum of the Great Sepulchre are revealed to the eyes of an Aonian.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unable to make the beam move, you decide to climb out of the hole and look further along the bridge for some other means of effecting a repair. As you rise to your feet you hear a noise that makes you freeze: it is the sound of an evil, snickering laugh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination <em>and</em> Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you do not possess <em>both</em> these skills, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The markings are letters, although the strange script is unlike any you have seen before. All you can discern is that this is an epitaph to a creature named <quote>Ztuul</quote> who lies buried inside the cairn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes his chest at an acute angle and glances off to splinter harmlessly against the parapet of the roof. He utters a mocking laugh, his cat-like eyes glinting through the slits in his visor, and hurriedly he drops the Lorestones into a small velvet sack which hangs from his swordbelt. Angered by his laugh, and your failure, you shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon as you rush forward, determined to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to fell three charioteers before you are trampled and crushed to death beneath the flailing hooves and heavy wheels of the following Ookor chariot teams.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your quest end here at the city of Thas.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the fatal blow, the Chaos-master vents a shriek loud enough to wake the dead. His great body stiffens and his skin writhes and shimmers, making it impossible to discern any detail. Then he fades until all that remains to record his existence is the lingering smell of his spilt blood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232"><link-text>Turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By magnifying your vision you are able to see that the middle of the bridge is damaged. Many of the planks have been torn up and strewn across the surface at random, crudely disguising the gaping hole. You scream a warning to T'uk T'ron and he is able to halt the chariots just in time, as they thunder towards the approach ramp.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you dive aside to avoid the searing gout of smoky yellow flame that pours from the Zhengha's mouth. Your lightning reactions save you from a roasting and, as you roll to your feet, you are able to unsheathe a weapon and advance on the beast unobserved.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shining City of Yanis lies before you, rising in circular levels around a turreted citadel of sparkling crystal which dominates the vast, alien metropolis. Constructed out of sheeted platinum, silver, glass and mirrored steel, it reflects the light in a thousand colours from its walls, windows and huge, conical towers, giving it the appearance and splendour of a glowing sun. As the dragonmount glides over the outer walls, you feast your eyes upon a network of broad avenues lined with fragrant, tree-like plants, squares with fountains, and huge, silver, bell-shaped dwellings.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>From your perch on the dragonmount you feast<br />your eyes on the shining City of Yanis</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="682" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="682" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Directly ahead stands the citadel. The leader signals once more and together the Yoacor land their winged steeds upon a glassy platform adjacent to one of the citadel's five circular watchtowers. There you are met by Yoacor guards, resplendent in armour of burnished silver, who attend to the dragonmounts with dutiful efficiency. The leader helps you dismount before dismissing his company and escorting you to a room in the watchtower.</p>
- <p><thought>You will rest here,</thought> he says, using only his mind. <thought>I shall take word to the Beholder and he shall speak with you. Refresh yourself and sleep if you wish.</thought> He motions towards an adjoining room then turns and leaves, the door closing behind him seemingly of its own accord.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to investigate the adjoining room, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you wish to attempt an escape from the watchtower, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you choose to remain in this room, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The vision of your maker shatters with breathtaking suddenness and, without any warning, you fall forwards and plummet into thick, swirling cloud. The scary sensation of this rapid descent leaves you gasping, but the initial shock is soon replaced by the calm certainty that your fall is being controlled by unseen hands. Then, as if awaking from a dream, you become aware that the cloud has faded and the welcome feel of firm ground has returned beneath your feet.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You stand at the foot of a massive sandstone cliff, its sheer wall pitted and scarred by fierce winds that whip across the surrounding rocky landscape. Perched at the top of the cliff is a walled city, whose grim outline and dragon gate you recognize immediately: it is Haagadar, the forgotten city of the Sandai. You stare up at the stronghold, pondering the near-impossible climb to its gate, and try to suppress your mounting fears. Nearby you see a stinking stream of foul water. You follow it to its source and discover that it pours from a grille set into the cliff wall. It must be a sewage channel that services the city above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you wish to attempt to enter the city via the sewage channel, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you wish to try to climb the sheer, windswept cliff to the city gate, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the scouts turns his head and answers your mind-call out loud. <quote>Show yourself!</quote> he orders, much to the surprise of his two companions, who possess no psychic skill and did not hear your telepathic message. You emerge from the foliage, your hands held open and away from your body. The other two spin round to face you, raising their forearms in reflex action at your sudden appearance.</p>
- <p><quote>Hold it!</quote> snaps the telepath to his companions, who are both on the verge of firing their bows. <quote>He is the one.</quote></p>
- <p>They seem unimpressed by his judgement and refuse to lower their bows until you suggest that one of them looks in your pocket if it is proof of your identity they require.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For countless hours you follow the stream without seeing a soul. You are beginning to suspect that this land is completely devoid of intelligent life when you happen upon a series of long, level fields, planted in precise rows with sweet-smelling yellow herbs. A path runs up from the stream to the brow of a hill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you wish to stop and examine this field of herbs, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you decide to follow the path to the top of the hill, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the centre of the chamber stands the statue of a proud Meledorian warrior, clad in battle-dress and with his sword raised in challenge. Seven closed caskets lie at his feet with seven more beside them, open and empty, awaiting future generations of the Ironheart clan. Here you can sense the presence of the Lorestones more strongly: your skin tingles and your pulse begins to race. But, despite your reactions, you can tell that they lie not within this chamber but somewhere nearby.</p>
- <p>Behind the tall statue you discover a narrow stair that ascends to a circular portal in the ceiling. Close to the foot of the stairs there is an arched door of sparkling blue metal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tolakos is fast being overrun by the chaos-horde and there are few places left in which to hide. To your left you see the domed roof and vine-covered walls of the Crypt of Juilor; to your right lies the damp grey Vault of Sedron; and behind you is the tall, flat-topped Tomb of Baylon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to hide in the Crypt of Juilor, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you wish to hide in the Vault of Sedron, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to hide in Baylon's Tomb, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You back away from the dead giant's body, your weapon held ready to continue the fight should the remaining Yoacor thirst for revenge. But they seem unmoved by their champion's death and show no desire to avenge it. The leader regards you with a cold smile of approval, for you have triumphed honourably in single combat and, by doing so, earned his admiration. He holds you with his eyes and projects a psychic message using a mind language you can understand.</p>
- <p><thought>We are the Yoacor</thought> he says, telepathically. <thought>We are the Lords of Yanis&emdash;the Shining City&emdash;and masters of the Abaxial of Czenos. Come, esteemed warrior, I invite you to join us. Come to Yanis where you will enjoy the rewards of the brave.</thought></p>
- <p>He beckons you to accompany him to his dragonmount. At first you hesitate, fearful of their intentions, but the thought of being left marooned in this inhospitable wilderness soon persuades you to accept the Yoacor's invitation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the wheels jam in a deep furrow and the chariot flips forward, catapulting you over the hand-rail to land with a thick splash in the mud at the river's edge. Stunned and blinded on impact, you do not see the onipa break free of their traces and come racing down the bank towards you until it is too late to avoid them. Pain explodes in your head as their iron-shod hooves descend on you like a rain of hammers. They inflict terrible wounds but death is mercifully quick.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in Vhozada.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you pass through the opening and follow Serocca into a tall, domed chamber that is supported by a circle of huge, rose-veined marble pillars. At its centre stands a large table and, from the ceiling directly above, a flood of light pours down, reflecting and refracting upon its crystal mosaic surface and bathing the chamber walls in spectral colours. She bids you take a seat at the table and, as she lowers herself elegantly into a seat opposite, you cannot but admire her beauty. Her face has the feline characteristics of a young lioness, yet her eyes and her youthful body are distinctly human, save for the soft, velvety nap which covers her flesh. She bears an aura that is powerful and confident, and yet at the same time she seems vulnerable and sad.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>As Serocca takes a seat at the table opposite you,<br />you cannot help but admire her beauty</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="678" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="678" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>How do you know my name?</quote> you ask, slightly unnerved by the familiar way in which she welcomed you to her chamber.</p>
- <p><quote>There is much I know about you,</quote> she replies, veraciously, and at once you sense that you are in the presence of a god-like being. <quote>Your land, and your fight against the forces of darkness who threaten to conquer it, are but a part of the struggle which rages throughout the Planes of Existence. Yet it is your world and your fight that has become the focus of this conflict between the powers of Good and Evil.</quote> She pauses, then staring deeply into your eyes, she continues: <quote>Upon you depends the future of us all.</quote></p>
- <p>Stunned by the enormity of what she has said, you shake your head in open-mouthed silence: <quote>No! How can this be?</quote> you breathe incredulously.</p>
- <p><quote>There are those who seek to shape destiny and those upon whom destiny falls. Destiny has chosen you, Lone Wolf, and you cannot refuse it, for it will force itself upon you.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But how have I become the focus of such a struggle?</quote> you reply.</p>
- <p><quote>We are all a part of it,</quote> she says. <quote>The worlds of Aon and the Daziarn are shaped by the actions of those who exist there. Yet the time has now come when the actions of one individual will shape the future of both worlds. You are that individual, Lone Wolf, and your actions are destined to shape the future of every living thing.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But what if I refuse?</quote> you say, nervously. <quote>What then will happen to the future?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You cannot refuse,</quote> she says, softly. <quote>For everything you do is bound up with your destiny. Your vow to complete the Magnakai quest and restore the Kai, will you give that up? Will you forsake your country and its future security? Will you abandon Magnamund to the evil of the Darklords? No, by your very nature&emdash;because of your honour and your courage&emdash;you will act out your part.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What then must I do?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>You must do what you have always done. You must listen to the words of those who will help you and you must let your skills and instincts be your guide.</quote> She leans forward and sweeps her hands slowly across the surface of the table. The light dims and patterns take shape among the tiny squares of crystal. <quote>Observe and learn,</quote> she says. <quote>For the images will impart knowledge that will aid your quest for the Lorestones of your ancestors.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel the familiar chill of premonition as your Kai senses alert you to a tiny pair of eyes blinking in the gloom of the leafy canopy overhead. You sense that a hostile creature lurks there, waiting to fire at anything that comes within range of its lethal blowpipe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you sprint along the path, the buzz of the creature's silver wings grows louder and louder. Suddenly a great weight hits you squarely in the back and pitches you head over heels: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You are stunned and bruised, yet acutely aware that you must escape quickly before the creature circles and attacks again.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your light washes over the rough red walls and illuminates a narrow corridor, formed by a violent rending of the land. Warily you descend, taking care to avoid the deep pot-holes which riddle the uneven floor, and at length you emerge into a cramped airless cavern. At that moment a cacophony of noise surges along the fissure and the floor shudders and heaves beneath your feet. Then a great blast of dust and debris knocks you off balance as it is sucked out of the cavern by the whirlwind now raging directly above. The turmoil soon subsides, but, as you drag yourself to your feet, you notice that you are not alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect62-1-foot" idref="sect62-1">
- <p>If you have both Disciplines, add only 4 to your number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zhengha screeches low over your head, causing a massive down draught to flatten you to the ground. Instantly you are smothered by a blinding cloud of grit that reduces your vision to a blur, but, as the dust settles, you are able to make out the ominous shape of the Zhengha once more. It has landed nearby and is getting ready to exhale its fiery breath.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of <a id="sect62-1" idref="sect62-1-foot" class="footnote">Nexus or Huntmastery,</a> add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Under cover of the thick undergrowth you edge your way down towards the road, to a position opposite the three warriors. They are talking in whispers but your sharp hearing picks up every word of a language you find easy to understand. They are Meledorian scouts, who have been sent here to meet you en route. They are speculating on what has become of you and your chariot escort, now long overdue. You are about to break cover and introduce yourself when you notice something about them that swiftly changes your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229"><link-text>Turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill you focus your telescopic vision on the far horizon and see a group of shapes that resemble small pyramids of stone. However, you are too far away to be able to tell if the structures are inhabited.</p>
- <p>A nearby stream meanders in the direction of the distant shapes and you decide to follow its course in the hope that it will lead you to them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sharp pain in your forehead is followed immediately by a swirling rush of nausea. You swoon and crash heavily behind the trunk of the fallen tree as dizziness robs you of your balance. You have been struck in the head by a blowpipe dart which is coated with a deadly, fast-acting venom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you prise open the heavy silver lid and stare at the shrunken remains of Lord Baylon. He lies on a mattress of diamonds and gemstones, his yellowed bones encased in ornate burial armour, and by his side rests a massive, two-handed sword. Its blade of solid gold is inscribed with a long list of battle honours and deeds of valour. You sense that this weapon is purely symbolic, a replica of his true sword, for its soft, gold blade would never hold a keen edge or withstand the rigours of battle. You are about to close the lid when you notice something else lying next to the sword: a Silver Flask. You pull its stopper and discover that it contains a wine that smells fresh and wholesome.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to drink some of the wine, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you decide to replace the flask and close the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai senses warn that you are in mortal danger. These beings suspect that you are a grave-robber come to loot the tomb of one of their ancestors. Unless you can persuade them otherwise they will not hesitate to kill you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and wish to attempt to communicate telepathically with the leader, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you choose to draw a weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you decide to raise your hands in surrender, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with two Agtah scouts, who are determined to fight you to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah Scouts</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the first two rounds of combat, owing to the speed and surprise of their attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses scream a warning that the trees harbour hidden enemies. They are lurking, ready to ambush anyone who attempts to cross the bridge. You tell T'uk T'ron and immediately he orders his guards to dismount and take cover behind their chariots while he and his driver go forward to examine the damaged bridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to go with T'uk T'ron, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you decide to stay with his guards defending the chariots, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs lead to a passageway, which gives access to a street via hinged stone portals in the ceiling. You climb through one of the portals to emerge on a gloomy street corner.</p>
- <p>Few walk the shadowy avenues of Haagadar: the atmosphere is so thick with the smell of salt and sulphur that those who you do pass are unrecognizable behind the damp pads they press to their faces to ward off the cloying stench. The dimly lit street ends at a central square, where you witness two encouraging sights. Roped to a stone monolith at the centre of the square is a huge, black bird&emdash;the scarlet warrior's winged steed. Behind it, rising in flat-topped tiers is the Temple of the Sandai. Two armour-clad creatures stand guard at the entrance, their rusty helmets crudely adapted to hold their face pads in position. You sense that the Lorestone is here, within the temple, and you scan every inch of it in the hope of finding an unguarded entrance. There are no other doors, but a circular, chimney-like vent protrudes from the middle of the highest tier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you decide to climb to the top of the temple and attempt to enter through the vent, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to cover your face and attempt to bluff your way past the guards, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aching with battle fatigue you step back from your dead foes and wipe their foul black blood from your eyes. You have won the first clash of arms but it is a hollow victory, for the whole area swarms with hundreds of their kind. Their feral eyes glint maliciously in the pale blue mist as slowly they advance once more. To stay here would be suicidal&emdash;there are so many that you would eventually be overwhelmed by their sheer weight of numbers. Reluctantly you are forced back to the Grand Sepulchre and the three tentacled horrors that command its entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34"><link-text>Turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the blink of an eye you load and fire your bow, sending an arrow spinning towards the giant's muscular chest. The tip bores into his golden flesh but it strikes a rib and is deflected. Maddened by the sudden pain the giant bellows a rumbling war-cry and lurches forward, intent on rending you limb from limb.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wounded Yoacor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">37</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rejoin the track and sprint into the forest, thankful that the canopy of branches prevents an attack from the air. You stop to catch your breath and check your equipment, and discover to your dismay that the creature's attack ripped open your Backpack. Several items have fallen out during your escape.</p>
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> half the Meals you possessed, together with those items that appear second and fourth on your list of Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">To continue, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the flower to be a Haina. Its red petals are especially effective in the treatment of battle wounds. Should you lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during a future combat, you will be able to restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points immediately afterwards. They can only be used after combat. If you wish to keep the Haina, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <p>You have not eaten today and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery you are unable, on this occasion, to use this skill in lieu of eating a Meal from your Backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hide beneath the leafy canopy of a flowering bush and wait in silence for the creatures to pass. Through a chink in the leaves you watch as two of them approach, sniffing the air with their ape-like noses as if they were trying to detect your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this skill, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim at his right eye and release your shaft, but his reactions are lightning fast. He ducks and tries to deflect your arrow on the reinforced crown of his helmet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim at a yellow-fanged horror with black gums and huge, owl-like eyes, and send your shaft spinning into its chest. It continues to advance several paces, seemingly unaffected by the arrow buried deep in its heart, until finally death conquers its will and it drops, rigid and lifeless, like a huge slab of stone. A shout causes you to glance over your shoulder and you see T'uk T'ron and the driver racing across the bridge. Another shout, harsh and bestial, draws your attention to the creature that is now leaping towards your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the first two rounds of combat, owing to the surprise of its attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense tells you that the food is untainted. You cannot identify any of the meats, vegetables or fruits but you sense that they are especially nutritious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to eat some of the Yoacor food, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you prefer to eat a Meal from your Backpack, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your improved psychic skill to repair your thought-shield by catching and controlling part of the hostile energy being directed against you. The shadow creatures sense your psychic mastery and a whisper passes between them. They split up and the hooves of their steeds churn the cloud to a roiling ferment as they move at a gallop to surround you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From a gold-capped leather tube Lorkon produces a map of the Nahgoth which details the location of his encampment, the burial grounds of Tolakos, and the last known position of the Chaos-master's horde. The scale is measured in leagues but you are able to calculate that Tolakos lies only ten miles from Lorkon's camp. A curvy red line has been drawn diagonally across the map to show where scouts last sighted the Chaos-master's troops, and this line passes dangerously close to the burial grounds.</p>
- <p><quote>You must leave as soon as possible if you are to be sure of reaching Tolakos before it is claimed by the enemy,</quote> says Lorkon, pointing to the bold red line. <quote>This was drawn three hours ago. If the Chaos-master decides to advance, he is within eight hours' march of the burial grounds. This means that in only the next five hours can you be sure to find Tolakos unoccupied. I intend to march my army forward and hold Tolakos but I await reinforcements and I dare not move until they arrive. Therefore I will provide you with a scout who knows the area well. He will guide you to your destination&emdash;the rest is up to you.</quote></p>
- <p>Lorkon sends for the scout, a Meledorian called Odel. When he arrives he suggests that you visit the equipment tent before setting off through the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to take this opportunity to select some new equipment before venturing to Tolakos, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to start your journey without delay, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A freezing blast of psychic force lances through your mind, filling your head with intolerable pain: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You reel from this unexpected assault and fight to regain control over your shaking limbs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and wish to retaliate against these shadow creatures, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Odel sits beside you with his back to the trunk, while he sets the metal crossbow that is strapped to his forearm. As soon as he is ready he turns, rises, and fires into the canopy of trees, sending a bronze-tipped bolt deep into the scaly belly of an Agtah sniper&emdash;your would-be assassin. The creature utters a piercing shriek and tumbles to the ground with a dull, sickening thud.</p>
- <p>You compliment Odel on his bow skill and follow him as he moves forward to search the chaos-creature's body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing upon your psychic ability you commit yourself to a state of deep trance in which you are able to separate your spirit from your living body and step beyond your physical form. As if in a dream you move by the power of your will alone. Your astral body is naked and, although it seems no different in shape, it feels eerily light, translucent and impalpable. With total fascination you stare at your mortal form, seeing yourself for the first time as others see you.</p>
- <p>Your surroundings are the same but all sense of limitation is gone. You approach the door and thrust your hand against it but you encounter no obstruction. Your hand passes effortlessly through the platinum and into the corridor beyond. Intoxicated by your new-found power you venture further and explore the watchtower, its corridors, stairs and chambers, but discover little that can aid your physical escape. There is only one exit from the tower and it is watched by more than a dozen heavily armed Yoacor guards. You are about to pass through them and continue out into the city itself when you feel your strength weakening: the time has come to rejoin your physical body. Quickly you return to the tower room, while you have power enough to spirit walk, and re-enter your mortal self.</p>
- <p>Your two bodies reunited, you are able to wake from your trance. You feel strangely cold and tired (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but you remember vividly every detail of your psychic experience.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to investigate the adjoining room, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you choose to remain in this room, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden sound makes you spin on your heel and instinctively you crouch down ready for combat. A small group of people, dressed in costumes that look vaguely familiar, are marching along the corridor towards the balcony. To avoid them, you hurry down a narrow stair that leads to the hall below and take cover behind the overladen table. From your hiding place you observe the group make their entrance. There are six of them: four men, one woman, and one other who walks with a stoop at the centre of the group and whom you cannot see clearly. You concentrate on their clothing, for there is something about its cut and style that is definitely familiar, yet you cannot pinpoint what it is. Then suddenly you recognize it, and the shock makes you draw breath: they are wearing Sommlending costumes. The five visible faces are now all too familiar to you: Luvias Kort, the Poisoner of Tyso; Falco, highwayman and cut-throat; Aieta Nematah, the Wytch of the Kirlundin Isles; Porgron, murderer; and Gardor Vezh, Chief Druid of Malis Mound, necromancer and cannibal. These are five of Sommerlund's most notorious criminals, all of whom were sentenced to be thrown into the Shadow Gate of Toran for their crimes.</p>
- <p>Five pairs of startled eyes glare at the table, alerted by your gasp, and the slick sound of blades leaving oiled scabbards soon follows. The four men and the woman, Aieta, raise their swords and step forward to challenge you. As they move apart you see the sixth member of their group clearly and an icy chill runs down your spine. Slowly you shake your head in disbelief as your stare is returned by the cold, malicious eyes of Vonotar the Traitor.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The five notorious criminals raise their swords and step forward<br />to challenge you, exposing the sixth member of their group</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="772" height="588" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="772" height="588" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Long have I waited for the chance to enact my revenge on you, Lone Wolf,</quote> he hisses, his loathsome voice filling the hall with sibilant echoes, <quote>And now my time has come. Kill him!</quote> he screams, maniacally, and the five spring forward, eager to obey his command.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Villains of Sommerlund</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat and must fight all five enemies to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you win the combat. <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill you urge the onipa to stop. They react to your command immediately, stiffening their forelegs and skidding to an abrupt halt within a few inches of the river's edge. Shaken but otherwise unharmed, T'uk T'ron and his driver open their eyes and stare down at the murky water, scarcely able to believe that they are still dry and in one piece.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a frenzy of excitement the citizens of Thas press forward on all sides, pawing, prodding and staring slack-jawed, as you are brought along the main street, which leads directly to the grey tower. Your escort are hard-pressed to keep the crowd at bay and, by the time you reach the tower door, your clothes are dishevelled and you are scratched and bruised: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>With a loud, grating rumble the stone door moves inwards and you are given into the charge of three bronze-clad Ookor wardens. They usher you up a winding stair to a bare chamber, floored and walled with smooth stone slabs. Silently a section of the drab wall moves aside and silhouetted in the opening stands the tall, feline shape of a remarkable creature. <quote>I am Serocca,</quote> she purrs, hypnotically, <quote>and I bid you welcome, Lone Wolf. Come, enter my chamber, so that we may discuss your reasons for journeying so far to seek my help.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scout removes the Obsidian Seal from your tunic pocket and studies it thoughtfully. <quote>Very well,</quote> he says, satisfied that you are the one they have been detailed to escort, <quote>we will take you to Lorkon Ironheart.</quote> He pockets the Obsidian Seal (delete this Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and motions you to approach his strange, long-haired steed.</p>
- <p>You ride pillion behind the saddle, yet the creature's shaggy coat makes for a comfortable seat as the steed gallops like a racehorse along the winding hill road. Huge tree trunks flash past&emdash;a blur of grey and brown&emdash;and the hills gradually recede until the forest rules supreme. The scouts leave the road and follow a smaller track which delves deep into this majestic timberland. They slow their pace, feeling safer now that they are back in familiar territory, and soon you arrive at a clearing. Hundreds of Meledorian soldiers are encamped here inside a perimeter wall of earth and logs. A cordon of sentries patrols the wall: they are alert and nervous, their eyes scrutinizing every shadow. A wheeled barricade of sawn timbers protects the only entrance and, at your approach, it is pushed aside to allow you entry. A small log cabin has been built at the heart of the tented encampment and the scouts bring their steeds to a halt near its front door. Quickly they dismount and usher you inside to meet their leader.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you draw the symbol in the soft surface of the square and step away from the door but, as soon as your finger leaves the square, a blast of cold vapour shoots from a tiny vent and catches you squarely in the face. You choke and retch as the bitter, poisonous gas seeps into your lungs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wind tears at your clothing as you fight your way slowly towards the distant gully. Your feet sink deep into the hot, shifting sands, transforming the simple act of walking into a hard and painful exertion. After what seems like an eternity you finally near your goal. You drop to your knees and crawl the few remaining yards towards the shelter of the shallow, rock-strewn trench. Gasping for breath, you bury your head inside your tunic to avoid inhaling a lungful of the sand-choked air and, gradually, your pulse steadies and your strength returns. You wait for the storm to subside but, as if in defiance of your wish, the winds grow ever stronger, whipping the sands into huge cyclones which suck countless tons of debris into their deadly, spinning cores.</p>
- <p>Fear returns to freeze your heart when the shadow of a raging whirlwind falls across the gully. In blind desperation you crawl towards a narrow fissure at the far end of the trench, praying that it is the entrance to a cave. This time your prayers are answered&emdash;the fissure marks the beginning of a shaft that descends deep into the volcanic rock. But as you draw closer your hopes for a safe shelter are dampened by a gruesome sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The golden glow fades as the wisdom contained within the Lorestone is infused into your being. Your spirit soars, but you do not allow your euphoria to blind you to the danger that is closing on Tolakos. You turn and run back towards the entrance to the Grand Sepulchre, intending to seek sanctuary behind its door, but your foot catches on something sharp and sends you sprawling to the ground. The toe of your left boot is cut through but fortunately your foot has escaped without a scratch. Cautiously you try to locate what caused such a vicious cut and discover the scarlet warrior's curvy-bladed sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to keep this weapon, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the surrounding trees, your eyes peeled for the slightest hint of another enemy, while Odel examines the dead Agtah. He shakes his head, indicating that he has found nothing of interest, and beckons you onward. Just as you begin to move you catch sight of a grey shape scurrying away into the misty distance. Quickly you draw an arrow and take aim, but the creature is no longer there&emdash;it has melted into the shadows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn you that a hostile creature is lurking immediately behind and below you. At the first opportunity it intends to grab your legs and drag you into the river. Forewarned, you prepare to deliver this creature a fatal surprise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cradled in the muscular arms of a Yoacor guard lies the loathsome, stunted form of the Beholder. His withered, corpse-green body is no bigger than a human child's, yet his bulbous head is enormous by comparison, far larger even than that of the giant who is holding him. It wobbles and sways repulsively when he turns to focus his eyes on you. Like polished gemstones these two blank orbs glint in the flickering light of the chamber, their cold sharpness revealing the intelligent being that lies imprisoned within the crippled shell.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Cradled in the arms of a Yoacor guard lies<br />the loathsome, stunted form of the Beholder</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="571" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="571" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Be not afraid of me, human,</quote> he says, using a language similar to your native tongue. <quote>I mean you no harm. My shape may not find favour with those of your species, but here in the Daziarn you must be prepared to disregard appearances if you are to discern the truth.</quote></p>
- <p>With a languid blink he dismisses the Yoacor leader and his guards and watches like a doting father as they descend the spiral staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chariots screech to a halt and a score of Ookor guards leap from the riding platforms. They come scurrying towards you, their glass-tipped spears thrust before them at arm's length. Their leader commands them to surround you. His order is swiftly obeyed and you are escorted back to the gates of their city at spearpoint.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect95-1-foot" idref="sect95-1">
- <p>If you have both Disciplines, add only 4 to your number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow misses its head completely and the beast swoops down to flatten you with its massive down draught. Instantly you are smothered by a blinding cloud of grit that reduces your vision to a blur. But, as the dust settles, you are able to make out the ominous shape of the Zhengha once more. It has landed nearby and is now poised to exhale its fiery breath.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. <a id="sect95-1" idref="sect95-1-foot" class="footnote">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus or Huntmastery, add 4 to the number you have picked.</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you ponder the meaning of her reading, she retrieves her cards from the table and shuffles away to help her daughters gather the empty food bowls. T'uk T'ron swallows the last of his delicious meal and rounds it off with a hearty belch. The Ookor villagers thank him&emdash;for it seems that such a reaction is the highest compliment one can pay after receiving Ookor hospitality.</p>
- <p><quote>We can go now, yes?</quote> he says, wiping his mouth on his sleeve. You nod your reply and he in turn barks an order to his company to return to their chariots.</p>
- <p>As your chariot pulls away from her village the old fortune teller waves farewell and you return her gesture with a smile.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>He draws a curvy-bladed sword and prepares to greet you with its razor-sharp edge. You strike first but he parries and returns your blow with great skill. For his size he is as quick as a cat and, despite his wound, you sense that he will be a difficult opponent to defeat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Scarlet Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you reduce his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to 20 points or less, do not continue the combat but <link-text>turn instead to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you kill him before his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 20 points (that is if you score an <quote>automatically killed</quote> result on the Combat Results Table), <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your silent surrender seems to anger the leader. It is as if you were in some way insulting his honour by refusing to answer him or take up a weapon in defence of your life. He bellows his contempt and, in a fit of rage, releases from his silver rod a charge of raw power that lances through your chest. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here on the Zhamin plateau of the Daziarn.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rapidly you succumb to the deadly toxins suspended in the vapour, and sink into a coma induced by the poison now circulating in your blood. Your senses grow numb and consciousness fades as you begin your journey into the timeless oblivion of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the visions are obscured by a dazzling light which shines so brilliantly that you are forced to shield your eyes against the glare. Many moments pass before you can make out the shape of what looms above: it is the huge face of a mighty warrior, strong and wise, whose golden eyes stare down at you with supernatural majesty. A kindly smile softens his heroic features and a voice, deep and wondrous, rumbles from his throat.</p>
- <p><em><quote>In this age of darkness you have been chosen to fulfil the quest of the Magnakai. Be true to the quest, for the greatness born within you can save your people and right the imbalance which threatens to destroy your world. Doubt not your purpose nor your strength, for inside you there burns a flame that can light the hopes of future men for all time.</quote></em></p>
- <p>The divine radiance of his being and the gravity of his words fill you with wonderment, for your senses tell you that you are now in the presence of your creator&emdash;the immortal God Kai.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51"><link-text>Turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the bodies of the dead Agtah and press on with your search. Ahead you see a glimmer of gold in the pale blue luminescence and you thrust your hand towards it into the mist. A tingling sensation runs the length of your arm, filling your body with an incredible sense of strength and well being as you close your hand around the Lorestone and hold it up before your eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">Restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to its original level and <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are powerless to prevent the Beholder's psychic intrusion, but at least the ordeal is mercifully short: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. He scans your mind thoroughly. Then, with a blink of his eyes, he ceases his psychic probing and a smile spreads slowly across his withered grey face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a pack of slimy chaos-beasts intent on eating you alive!</p>
- <combat><enemy>Amphibian Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">56</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">You may evade combat after three rounds by running back to the Grand Sepulchre and attempting to force your way in: <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt penetrates your chest and knocks you backwards into the undergrowth. The canopy of branches spins before your eyes and, as you gasp for breath, you taste blood and feel a terrifying numbness spread through your body. There is no pain as you slip gently into the oblivion of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the taut bowstring and send your arrow streaking towards the amber eye, but it misses its intended target by a hand's breadth and ricochets harmlessly off the creature's stone-hard scales. The creature emits a loud, gurgling croak as it edges forward, forcing you to drop your bow and draw a hand weapon in readiness to receive its attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Khozinda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find it impossible to resist the strange compulsion drawing you towards the light. Effortlessly you glide along the tunnel and emerge at the centre of a huge, transparent sphere suspended in a luminous yellow sea of oily liquid. Behind its seamless walls swim fish-like creatures, strange things with phosphorescent bodies and opalescent jaws. You stare in fascination as they swim around you, seemingly oblivious of your presence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gently the Sommerswerd vibrates in its scabbard and a cool, golden fire laps at the hilt. Instinctively you unsheathe it and immediately the blade is engulfed by golden flames, ignited by the close proximity of the Lorestones. As you raise the sword, the flames burn brighter and illuminate the circular portal in the ceiling. At once you realize that it must provide access to the roof of the Sepulchre and, with your heart pounding, you race up the steps, confident of finding the objects of your quest waiting for you there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch as suspicion turns to fear in these creatures' eyes. They become agitated, jabbing the air with their glass-tipped spears and cawing incessantly in their strange tongue. They sway, like half-coiled serpents weaving before a snake charmer, and then, as one, they rush forward and attack.</p>
- <p>Owing to the speed and ferocity of their charge, you cannot evade them or make use of a bow.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ookor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your Kai mastery you attempt to repel this fearsome reptilian. You sense that it is weak and starving and close to death&emdash;a condition which makes it especially susceptible to your commands.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 1 point for every Magnakai Discipline you possess over and above the first three skills (for example, if you possess five Magnakai Disciplines, add 2 points to the number you have picked).</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The onipa slide stiff-legged down the slippery bank and the chariot slews violently to the left before coming to a halt within a few inches of the river's edge. Shaken but otherwise unharmed, T'uk T'ron and his driver open their eyes and stare down at the murky water, scarcely able to believe that they are still dry and in one piece.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Chaos-master catches a glimpse of you crouching behind the parapet and diverts his aim from Lorkon Ironheart. With malicious glee he slams his great club down upon the roof and, in a terrifying moment, you are crushed to death.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you awaken and for a long moment you lie on the hard floor blinking sleepily at the pitted rock ceiling. The storm died down while you slept and all is quiet save for a sound that sets your pulse racing: the distant slap of large wings beating the air. The sound is becoming louder and you gather your equipment quickly and climb out of the cairn to investigate its source.</p>
- <p>Silhouetted against the blazing horizon are six black shapes. They resemble dragons with snaky necks and ragged, bat-like wings, and upon their backs they carry golden-skinned creatures, vaguely human in appearance save for their lack of hair and their massive size. From their flight formation you can tell that they are hunting something on the ground, but it is not until you climb to the top of the cairn that you are able to see their prey. A brace of huge, lizard-like creatures are thundering across the plateau, darting this way and that to avoid the shadows cast by their winged pursuers. They reach the top of a rock-strewn ridge and one of the crimson reptilians comes pounding across the sand towards the cairn. The leading flyer sees you. He banks his dragon mount towards the cairn and the others follow closely in his wake. You fear that they are about to attack but at the last moment they veer away and circle the cairn before landing nearby.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In spite of his attempts to deflect your arrow, it penetrates the cheek plate less than an inch below his eye. He bellows an agonized cry and wrenches the shaft from his face. Such fortitude is impressive but you can tell that he has suffered a serious wound. Feverishly he scoops the Lorestones into a small velvet sack tied to his swordbelt. Swiftly you shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon as you run forward to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shocked by your encounter with the Agtah you make your way deeper into the hills, skirting the road in favour of the wooded slopes, which offer good cover. Yet you keep the road in sight constantly to ensure that you are heading towards Tolakos. Your usual good sense of direction is vague and distorted, for in this region of the Daziarn there are no sun, stars or points of the compass by which to gauge your position.</p>
- <p>The hours pass uneventfully until you reach a place where the road runs alongside a pool of crystal-clear water, fed by a fast-flowing stream. Three human-shaped warriors clad in armour are standing near the pool, scanning the woods, while their shaggy black equine mounts drink their fill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination or Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the crest of the hill and stare down at the remarkable sight that lies beyond. A walled city of low, pyramid-shaped dwellings is spread along the centre of a narrow valley. Near the middle, rising high above the other buildings, stands a tower of stone, its colour identical to the drab grey of the sky. Its straight thoroughfares are thronged with hairy, ape-like creatures who pass freely and leisurely through the narrow streets.</p>
- <p>The path leads down to an open gate in the city wall where two of its squat-limbed inhabitants stand guard. You are relieved to have at last discovered a vestige of civilization in this strange land, and you set off for the city gate at a brisk pace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn that a powerful spell protects this portal. If you inscribe the wrong symbol on the blank square you will break the spell, the consequences of which could be fatal!</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few miles beyond the village, the road leaves the valley and crosses an open expanse of lush grassland. The hours roll by and you watch the passing landscape with increasing wonder as you try to comprehend how it can thrive beneath a sunless sky. Slowly the plain descends towards a wide river, sluggish with sediment and flanked by tall, grey-green trees. A bridge spans the dark water and the road continues beyond towards a line of hills. The bridge is built of stout timber, but as you draw closer to it you sense that something is seriously amiss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you do not have this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your detour takes you through a marshy section of the Nahgoth where firm ground gives way to thorn-guarded shrubs and ankle-deep slime. You press on and, as you disturb the surface of the mire, you release a cloud of vile, choking marsh gas.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing (at the rank of Mentora or more), or the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus (at the rank of Primate or more), lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points owing to the insidious effect of the gas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The food has a taste and texture completely unlike anything you have tried before, yet it is delicious, and after having eaten your fill you feel thoroughly refreshed and fortified: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>There is enough food remaining for 1 Meal. If you wish to keep the Meal, note on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, <quote>Meal: +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></quote>, as the food will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when consumed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of your enemies falls dead at your feet, the traitor vents a shrill cry of terror and scurries like a bloated spider towards the Shadow Gate. In his hand he clutches a banded, leaden box and, as he runs, he works feverishly at the lock. Suddenly the lid springs back and your senses burn as the power of the last Lorestone is uncovered. Now instinct alone guides your actions. You sprint towards him, determined to stop him from entering the Shadow Gate. He squeals with fear and turns to face you, his hand raised, a ring of blue fire pulsating on his finger. He screams a curse and a jet of cold fire lances your chest and slams you to the floor: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. As you stagger to your feet, the traitor runs forward to finish you with another blast. You dive aside and the blast tears open the floor but, before he can launch another, you leap forward and attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Vonotar the Traitor screams a curse and a jet of<br />cold fire from his ring lances your chest</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Vonotar the Traitor (with Power Ring)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>He is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lorkon escorts you to the door of his cabin and wishes you luck. You thank him and bid him farewell. As you turn to leave, he calls out, <quote>Remember, I will be marching to Tolakos as soon as my reinforcements arrive.</quote></p>
- <p>You follow Odel, leaving the encampment by slipping over the perimeter wall. Soon you merge like shadows into the thick forest beyond. The giant trunks support a canopy of dense foliage that blocks out the light and keeps the forest floor bathed in a perpetual twilight. A carpet of moss muffles your footfalls and the only foliage that grows in abundance is a bushy velvet lichen patterned with orange-headed, tooth-sized growths. <quote>Khetu Spores,</quote> says Odel, noticing your interest in the strange flora. <quote>They're deadly poisonous.</quote></p>
- <p>If you wish to collect a handful of the poisonous Khetu Spores, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Beholder deactivates the light-picture and wills his servant to carry him back to the first gallery. There, bathed in the shadowless glow of the fireball, stands a huge globe of silvery metal. At his approach it radiates an eerie phosphorescent light and symbols appear upon its surface.</p>
- <p><quote>The Lorestones entered the Shadow Gate some moments before you fell, is that not so?</quote> asks the Beholder, incisively. You confirm this to be the case and watch with fascination as the symbols shift and change colour. <quote>There are many channels within the Shadow Gate that are warped by the vagaries of time and space. Usually it is an impossible task to predict where an object passing through to the Daziarn will materialize, but the coordinates of your arrival are known and this will help my calculations.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly the symbols begin to disappear until just three remain. <quote>Without knowing the precise Aon-time they entered the Shadow Gate I can find only an approximate location,</quote> he says, scrutinizing the symbols. <quote>As reckoned by the time-scale of your planet, the Lorestones arrived on the Daziarn forty-one hours ago. They materialized together and intact in the forest of the Khat Trisect of Vhozada&emdash;a realm situated between the elemental strongholds of Earth and Water. This bodes well for you, human. Vhozada is a temperate and stable domain, rich in those elements necessary to sustain mortal life-forms. Also, there is one of great vision who has made this her home. Her name is Serocca. It would be wise to seek her help in finding these stones of power, for she is sure to know their whereabouts.</quote></p>
- <p>Although his words revive your flagging hopes, you are still fearful that the Lorestones are beyond your recovery. The Beholder senses your apprehension and tries to allay your fears by offering you a means of transportation to the realm of Vhozada. He promises that your passage will be swift, but, when you learn what the journey entails, your blood runs cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior shrieks his death-cry and falls backwards, his arms outstretched and his fingers clawing blindly at the air. By chance they become tangled in the rope ladder and his body is lifted into the air as the giant black bird takes to the sky. A wave of panic engulfs you. In desperation you leap up and aim a blow at the small sack in an attempt to cut it loose. Your blow slices open the velvet and one of the two Lorestones tumbles into the graveyard below, coming to rest close to the door of the Sepulchre. Angry and crestfallen, you watch as the bird and its precious cargo rise above the trees and listen helplessly as the muffled flap of its wings fades into the distance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237"><link-text>Turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>T'uk T'ron slaps the driver's shoulder. Immediately he hauls on the reins and pulls at a lever which activates the wheel brakes, bringing the chariot to a squealing halt. The others stop nearby and the guards clamber down from the riding platforms unsteadily, their legs weak and trembling after hours of riding along the bumpy track. They are familiar with this village and without hesitation they head towards a thatched hut that is set back from the road.</p>
- <p>You accompany the captain and his driver into the hut, stooping to enter the Ookor-sized doorway. The villagers seem delighted to receive you as their guest and ply you eagerly with food and wine. One of them, an elderly female with kindly eyes, hobbles to your side and places a deck of cards on the table. <quote>She is teller of fortunes,</quote> says T'uk T'ron. <quote>You want she tell your fortune, yes?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to have your fortune told, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to refuse her offer politely, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as you complete the square it begins to fade. Then a blast of icy cold vapour shoots from a vent beside the door and catches you squarely in the face. You choke and retch as the bitter, poisonous gas seeps into your lungs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Strewn around the entrance to the fissure are the bleached and shattered bones of what was once a formidable creature. Nervously you reach for a weapon as you approach the narrow gap and peer into its lightless depths. A strange smell, sweet and unwholesome, wafts out of the inky blackness and stops you dead in your tracks. But the deafening roar of the approaching tornado makes you swallow your fear and enter. Cautiously you descend into the dark, your weapon held poised to counter a sudden attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you have a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern, or a Torch and Tinderbox, and wish to use any of them, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you do not possess any of these items or do not wish to use them but still wish to advance deeper into the fissure to avoid the raging tornado, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you choose not to advance but to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow opens a shallow wound in the creature's belly, but it does not deter it from attacking you with its sword-sharp fangs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tazgar Worm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to unsheathe your weapon and strike a blow that carves a crimson wedge from the ugly creature's snout. It gives an angry, gurgling cry and recoils in pain, freeing you from its grip and allowing you time to climb through the hole. However, although the beast is wounded, it is not defeated. Driven by pain and a blind lust for revenge, it tears its way through the planking and hurls itself at you recklessly.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill enables you to identify these plants: they are Senara, exceedingly rare on Magnamund but seemingly abundant here in Vhozada. The unripened buds of this herb have great restorative qualities and when eaten will enable you to regain lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Each Meal of Senara will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and there are enough buds in this field for over 100 Meals.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the Senara buds, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">To continue, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your commands slow the animal's advance but they do not persuade it to pass up the opportunity of a good meal. It growls, weakly but hungrily, and prepares itself for an attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The portal is secured by a massive metallic lock, and engraved into its blackened surface is a quartered square. In three of the four quarters there are etched symbols, but the fourth quarter, which is formed of a soft, clay-like substance, remains blank. Your basic Kai instincts tell you that the symbols are a clue to a Meledorian code that unlocks the great door. By inscribing the correct symbols in the soft surface of the blank square, you will cause the portal to open. Study the sequence carefully:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The beings scowl with disdain when you offer no reply. Their leader draws a silver rod from inside his Khozinda-scale vest, levels it menacingly at your chest and slowly repeats the words he has spoken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and wish to attempt to communicate telepathically with the leader, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you choose to draw a weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you decide to raise your hands in surrender, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of your foul enemies falls dead at your feet, you sheathe your weapon and drag their blood-spattered corpses away from the great door. Then you push closed the heavy portal, making sure that it is secure, before climbing the stair to the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Owing to the awkward position of the beam, it is impossible to apply any leverage to force it back into its proper place. The only way you will get it to move is by using a Rope.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you have a Rope and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you do not possess a Rope, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you try to retrace your route to the stream, but you soon come to an abrupt halt: a group of hairy, squat-limbed creatures is moving through the undergrowth towards you. They are armed with crude spears which they carry at the ready, like hunters stalking their prey.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to take cover in the undergrowth and wait for them to pass, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to avoid them by returning to the monolith, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior answers your demand with a mocking laugh, his green, cat-like eyes glinting through the slits of his visor. Hurriedly he snatches the Lorestones with his gloved hands and drops them into a small velvet sack tied to his swordbelt. Angered by his audacity and fearful of losing the Lorestones, you unsheathe a weapon and run forward, determined to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of panic washes across T'uk T'ron's face and he screams frantically at his driver to stop. He pulls on the reins and steers the onipa away from the bridge, but he leaves it too late to apply the wheel brake. With a terrified shriek he and the driver cover their eyes as the muddy water looms into view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you do not possess this skill, you can either leap out of the chariot: <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">Or you can hold on tight and pray that the onipa will stop before they reach the river: <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At length you emerge from the twisted trees of the chaos-zone and follow the track as it wends its way through the Nahgoth Forest beyond. Your journey passes slowly and without incident until, after countless hours of travel, you arrive at the edge of the Plain of Guakor. You are now very tired and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Rather than attempting to cross the barren plain immediately, you decide to rest here and continue after some much needed sleep. Ten hours later you wake refreshed and eager to begin the next leg of your journey to Haagadar. After checking your equipment and your map, you set off across the featureless plateau.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If it is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the first room and peer out of a tall window that looks out over the city. Far below you can see the Yoacor crowding an avenue which leads to an outer level of Yanis. They move with such purposefulness that, from this great height, they resemble a vast community of worker ants. For several hours you stare down at this beautiful alien city and its industrious citizens while you try to make sense of your situation. Eventually you resolve to find out all you can from the one the leader called the <quote>Beholder</quote>. Perhaps he will be able to help you locate the Lorestones and find a way back to Magnamund. At length you settle down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317"><link-text>Turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rusty bars offer little resistance to a couple of well placed kicks and you are able to gain entry to the circular chute with ease. A narrow walkway runs beside the gurgling channel, ascending by steps and ramps as the climb becomes increasingly steep. The dark stone walls are beaded with moisture and smeared with patches of luminous fungi which keep the sewer bathed in an eerie green half-light. At length you reach a landing where a smaller channel joins the main flow. As you pass it and set foot on the stairs beyond, you hear a sound, like the rustling of leather on stone, and sense that something hungry is advancing along the tunnel towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the sound of your voice begins to fade, a whirling streak of shining silver emerges out of the darkness. The sudden rush of wind knocks you backwards and you see, soaring on wide gossamer wings, a huge, worm-like monstrosity take to the air. It circles the clearing, then swoops down to attack you with its sword-sharp fangs.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A huge, worm-like monstrosity swoops down<br />to attack you with its sword-sharp fangs</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="640" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="640" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you choose to evade its attack by running along the path into the forest, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The strange, anthropoid creatures pass within a few feet of the bushes where you are hiding, but they fail to detect you. Only when you are sure that the coast is clear do you leave your hiding place and hurry away from the monolith and its protectors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nonchalantly you brush the red flower away and fix your eyes on the road ahead. You have not eaten today and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery you are unable, on this occasion, to use this skill in lieu of eating a Meal from your Backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lorkon and his Meledorian troops are overjoyed to have witnessed the spectacular defeat of the Chaos-master, for your victory has rid them of their greatest enemy. They call to you to come down from the roof and, when you appear at the doorway, they shower you with praise.</p>
- <p><quote>We owe you more than our lives, Aonian,</quote> says Lorkon, his strange blue eyes aglow with admiration. <quote>Your great deed has saved our realm and put an end to the plague of chaos that would have corrupted us all. We are forever in your debt.</quote></p>
- <p>As he shakes your hand he notices the blade with which you dispatched the Chaos-master. <quote>It is a good omen for my clan that the sword you used to banish the evil one was forged by my ancestors. I am doubly proud that it served you well. But now it must return to the Grand Sepulchre, for such is our law.</quote></p>
- <p>It is with some reluctance that you return the Ironheart Broadsword to its rightful steward (delete this Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), for never before have you wielded as fine a sword as this.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the barren wasteland, straining your senses to detect the missing Lorestones, which must be somewhere among the millions of rocks and wind-smoothed boulders that cover the vast plateau. But it proves a fruitless search: you can find no trace of the Lorestones nor even the slightest indication that a Shadow Gate opened here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive behind the trunk but you feel a stinging sensation as the blowpipe dart scratches the side of your neck. A wave of nausea churns your stomach and your throat becomes painfully tight, restricting your breathing and causing your pulse to race: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Odel appears at your side and wipes the scratch with a handful of fungi culled from the bark of Baylon's Bough. Swiftly the frightening effects of the poison subside as the healing properties of the fungi take effect.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep some of this Baylon's Bough Fungi, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shaft strikes wide, glancing off his shoulder and disappearing over the parapet of the roof. He utters a mocking laugh, his cat-like eyes glinting through the slits in his visor, and hurriedly drops the Lorestones into a small sack tied to his swordbelt. Angered by his laugh, and by your failure, you shoulder your bow in favour of a hand weapon and rush forward, determined to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At length you abandon your observation: you are unable to see any sign of intelligent life in the surrounding landscape. You decide to follow a nearby stream in the hope that it will lead eventually to a river, where the chances of finding a village or settlement should be higher.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a haunting scream, the evil shadows fade and dissolve in the swirling clouds. A loud wind whistles in your ears, carrying the mournful sound of a tolling bell. At the centre of the cloud a ray of golden light pulses like a heartbeat in time to the chime of the bell. It draws you towards it and you cannot resist its call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai senses reveal that the three warriors are Meledorian scouts. They have been sent by their leader, Lorkon Ironheart, to meet you en route and escort you directly to his headquarters.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to make your presence known to them, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you wish to approach them under cover of the trees, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim for the weakest part of his armour, where his chainmail vest joins the bevor of his helmet, and release your straining bowstring. But the warrior has the reactions of a young leopard: he senses that he is vulnerable to your arrow and twists aside to avoid it.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Come, let me show you some of the wonders of my realm,</quote> says the Beholder, as the great black door swings slowly shut. <quote>It is so rare that I am able to entertain a guest, I would deem it an honour if you would accept my invitation.</quote></p>
- <p>With the only exit from the chamber now sealed off you have no option but to accept, yet his politeness makes you feel uneasy. You are his prisoner, yet he speaks to you as if you were free to leave at any time.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164"><link-text>Turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are eager to put a good distance between yourself and the monolith, so you decide to run beside the stream for as long as your legs will allow. Time passes rapidly, although the terrain changes very little until you reach a line of low hills, spread out before you like a sleeping colossus. Here a path ascends from the bank of the stream to the crest of the hill and you follow it. On reaching the crest you stare down at a remarkable and daunting sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chamber is filled with valuable tapestries and furnishings, but there is little that can be carried out with ease. Certain that you have overlooked nothing of practical value, you head for the roof in order to spy on the surrounding chaos-creatures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With almost casual stealth you unsheathe a weapon and hold it poised to strike. The creature is close: you can sense it getting ready to attack. There is a rustle of fur. Swiftly you raise your legs to avoid the sweeping lunge of two hairy, clawed paws, then you strike a blow that carves a crimson wedge from its ugly snout. The creature gives a gurgling scream and scrambles through the hole, driven by pain and its blind lust for revenge.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having listened to your explanation the giants react with scepticism, but, despite their doubts, they are clearly fascinated by your appearance and the sound of your voice. <quote>We are the Yoacor,</quote> says the leader, proudly. <quote>We are the Lords of Yanis&emdash;the Shining City&emdash;and masters of the Abaxial of Czenos. Come, we will take you to our realm where you may tell your strange story to the Beholder. He will divine its worth.</quote></p>
- <p>He beckons you to approach his dragonmount and you step forward. The thought of being left marooned in this wilderness is all you need to persuade you to obey his command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There are very few places on this desolate plain that offer cover from the air. You run towards the nearest&emdash;a group of boulders&emdash;and curl up among them in the hope that you will escape the Zhengha's wicked gaze.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 1 to this number for every Magnakai Discipline you possess.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If your total is now 0&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch T'uk T'ron and the driver scurry across the planks, using the parapet of the bridge as cover. They reach the centre and are examining the damage when a chilling scream, like the baying of a crazed wolf pack, echoes from the trees. Grey shapes jostle in the shadows and your heart freezes in a moment of horror as they advance into the light.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Grotesque Agtah monsters stagger from the<br />trees on both sides of the bridge</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="681" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="681" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Lumbering hordes of twisted shapes stagger from the trees on both sides of the bridge. They appear to be neither human nor animal but a ghastly fusion of the two. Their heads are of differing types: some are like cats with huge, green eyes; some are like boars with snouts and twisting tusks; others have rams' heads, sabre-toothed and riddled with decay. The Ookor guards tremble with fear and whisper the word <quote>Agtah</quote> as these monstrosities draw closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you choose to leave the chariot and join T'uk T'ron on the bridge, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of psychic energy rushes through your mind, washing across your thoughts, searching for some sign of hostile intent. You resist the intrusion and the wave quickly recedes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the clouds separate, and a tall tower of glistening white stone looms before you. A globe of golden light hangs suspended in mid-air above its conical roof, pulsating with heat and radiating power like a tiny, new-born sun.</p>
- <p>Its comforting warmth draws you towards an open portal at the side of the tower. Beyond it you see a dark tunnel that descends towards a speck of misty yellow light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If not, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A low, croaking growl issues from the far side of the cavern and suddenly two slits appear, from which a baleful orange light radiates. With bated breath you watch a shape emerge from the shadows: a long, scaly form with short legs and a lizard-like head. The outline of its body, perfectly camouflaged against the red volcanic rock, pulses like a heartbeat as it awakens from its slumber. It swivels its horny head and fixes you with an alien gaze, its snake-like eyes glittering with malice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and have reached the rank of Primate or more, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow almost severs the Tazgar's head and sends the vile creature spinning wildly into the trees amid a spray of its own foul blood. Without waiting to discover if it was the only one of its kind, you sheathe your weapon and hurry away from the clearing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The berry-like growths smell sweet and succulent. They awaken your appetite and remind you that your last meal was several hours ago.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you wish to eat a handful of these orange berries, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you decide to ignore your hunger and press on, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk beside the Beholder along a corridor which leads to a vast, circular gallery. At its centre stands a towering, bell-shaped vessel made out of transparent, glass-like material and filled with a huge, seething ball of fire. Its brilliant light illuminates some strange equipment standing against the walls and cluttering the tables, but little of its heat radiates into the room. You pass on until you come to another gallery which is floored with shining steel like a gigantic mirror. The domed roof is lost in the dim shadows, but at its centre you notice a tiny, disc-shaped portal. The Beholder glances at a row of crystals embedded in the wall and they glow in response to his psychic commands.</p>
- <p><quote>I am called the Beholder,</quote> he says, his thin voice echoing loudly in the emptiness of the dome. <quote>I observe all that transpires in the Daziarn. I saw your arrival upon the Zhamin Plateau and I know from whence you came. So few of your kind survive transference that I abandoned all hope of meeting you. Indeed had you not met with one of my hunting parties your bones would now lie bleaching upon the sands of that arid plain. It seems that you are by nature a survivor.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly a swirling column of light appears, projected from the disc in the centre of the dome. It casts a pool of brilliance in the middle of the gallery and gradually widens until it encompasses the whole floor.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, observe, and perhaps you will learn the nature of your new world. For you will need to adapt if you are to survive here &ellips; for the rest of your life.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You claw the mud from your eyes to see the onipa team veer away from the river just in time to save the chariot from a watery end. It comes to an abrupt stop within inches of the river's edge and, as you wade towards it, T'uk T'ron and his driver appear above the rim of the platform and stare at you, glassy-eyed with shock. The other chariots draw to a halt behind and T'uk T'ron's chariot is hauled out of the mud. As they are steering it back on to the road, you notice that the centre of the bridge is damaged. Some of the planks have been torn up and left strewn across the surface, crudely disguising the gaping hole. Quickly you rejoin T'uk T'ron in the chariot and inform him of what you have seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, and have reached the rank of Tutelary, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you run across the tangled and broken ground towards Baylon's tomb you are assailed by two Agtah wielding large chunks of masonry. Swiftly you dispatch them with two well placed blows and reach the tomb unscathed. There you find that the lock which secures the door is similar in design to that of the Grand Sepulchre. As before, there are three groups of symbols and one blank square, although the symbols inscribed here are quite different from those that confronted you at the Grand Sepulchre. They look like this:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>By inscribing the correct symbols in the soft surface of the blank square you will cause the door to open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship or Divination, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you possess neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your mastery of Invisibility, you use your skills to evade the searching eyes of these strange anthropoid creatures. They pass within a few feet of you but fail to detect your presence. Only when you are sure that the coast is clear do you leave your hiding place and hurry away from the monolith and its protectors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A clacking of fangs and a cold, ophidian smell serve to warn you that a gigantic serpent is advancing towards the landing, attracted by the promising warmth and scent of your body. It is moving very quickly and you realize at once that your only hope of evading it is to delay its advance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you possess a minimum of 4 Meals, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not possess this amount of food, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your forefinger you draw the symbols in the doughy material and push against the mighty door, expecting it to rumble open. The portal remains firm and your inscription begins to fade until there is no trace of it at all. The rush of fearful premonition steals your breath away seconds before a massive charge of crackling power leaps from above the door and stabs you viciously in the chest: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you survive this serious wounding, <link-text>turn back to 25</link-text> and study the remaining symbols very carefully before you attempt to open the door again.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you enter the room, noting that in spite of a lack of windows and torches it is bathed in a warm amber light. The opalescent glow pours from the walls themselves, illuminating a table set with colourful food and a huge, cushioned divan standing beside it. The oversize Yoacor furniture makes you feel like a small child exploring a dining chamber for adults, but your hunger soon quells your unease and entices you towards the table. You are very hungry after your long flight to Yanis and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to eat some of the Yoacor food, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you choose to eat a Meal from your Backpack, or decide to go without food altogether (remember to deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow misses its mark by an inch and dents the plate that protects the bridge of the warrior's nose. The metal buckles and cuts his face, momentarily stunning him, but it does not prevent him from scooping the Lorestones into a small velvet sack, which hangs from his swordbelt. Quickly you shoulder your bow in favour of a hand weapon and rush forward to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cards you have chosen have three colourful symbols embossed on their leather-like surface. The first shows a black bird, the second a tree, and the third shows two swords crossed over a blazing fire. The old Ookor traces a crooked finger around the cards and mutters continually under her breath. T'uk T'ron leans forward and tries to translate her mumblings.</p>
- <p><quote>She say that you have an enemy in the skies. He come to nest in trees and fight with you. He not win fight but you not win fight either. You must beware this enemy for he will not rest until you die.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lorkon orders that word of the victory be sent immediately to his people, and commands that a celebration be held in your honour. But the urgency of your quest prompts you to forego the festivities and begin your journey to Haagadar at once. Lorkon understands your need to make haste and offers to help you by assigning another scout to guide you through the Nahgoth to the Plain of Guakor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you wish to accept Lorkon's offer of help, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you choose to continue your quest alone, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The unexpected speed and intensity of the Beholder's psychic intrusion leaves you fumbling for defence. You draw on your psychic reserves and manage to erect a thought-wall to protect your nervous system, but it is too late to prevent the Beholder from scanning your mind: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Then, with a blink of his eyes, he ceases his psychic probing and a smile spreads slowly across his withered grey face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghosts dissolve into the mists and a strange serenity soothes your tortured mind. New forms are taking shape now. They fill the scope of your vision with memories of events that occurred long ago. You see the smiling faces of your mother and father; the village of Dage, where you lived before you entered the Kai monastery; your sister Kari calling you in for supper at the close of a warm summer's day; and the sad memory of your brother Jen, who gave his life to save yours when, on your sixth birthday, you slipped and fell into the River Tor.</p>
- <p>With amazement you watch as the patchwork parade of recollections continues to unfold, and slowly a realization of their meaning crystallizes in your mind. These people and events have all played their part, be it great or small, in the shaping of your destiny.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the clangour of arms and the ghastly howl of the attacking chaos-creatures grow in pitch and fervour, you work feverishly to reposition the planks and make the bridge secure for the chariots to cross. Most of the damage is superficial but one stout beam that has been pulled out of place is a vital support. Without it the centre would be sure to collapse under the weight of the heavy bronze chariots.</p>
- <p>You struggle to push it back into position but it refuses to budge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The statue is wrapped in a thin, silvery blanket of metal, its crumpled surface reflecting a glittering mosaic of light upon the rough rock walls. Carefully you peel away the metal sheeting to discover that the statue is no more than a tangle of mouldering bones, the remains of a creature long deceased. Judging by the size of the skeleton, this creature must have stood almost nine feet tall.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Carefully you peel away the metal sheeting to discover that<br />the statue is no more than a tangle of mouldering bones</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="681" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="681" />
- </illustration>
- <p>What little it once wore has long since crumbled to dust, but lying beside the rib cage you discover a rod of silver that gleams as if it were new. If you wish to take this Silver Rod, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry tucked through your belt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">To continue, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The greasy grey body is naked save for a loincloth of filthy animal hide, soaked with the black blood that gushed from its wound. In a taloned hand it grips the blowpipe, rudely fashioned from a Meledorian's thighbone. Odel curses this dead spawn of chaos and rises to his feet, clearly disturbed by what he has seen. He suggests that you head for Tolakos straight away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185"><link-text>Turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race along the track and into the forest, thankful that the tangled canopy of branches offers effective protection from an attack from the air. Only when you are sure that it is safe do you stop to catch your breath and check your equipment. To your horror you discover that the creature's attack ripped open your Backpack and some of the items you were carrying have fallen out during your escape.</p>
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those Backpack Items that appear third, fourth and fifth on your list.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">To continue, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sickly scent of the herbs makes you suspicious of their properties. Rather than risk eating any of the buds, you decide to leave and continue along the path towards the brow of the hill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your concentration on the radiant power of the Lorestones and your eyes are drawn inexorably towards the ceiling. Nothing stirs in these shadowy reaches, yet you sense that the Lorestones are here. Then you notice the stair and circular portal and you realize that they must provide access to the flat roof of the Sepulchre. With your heart pounding, you race up the steps, confident of finding the two Lorestones waiting for you on the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken only a few steps across the weathered plank bridge when a terrifying howl echoes from the surrounding trees. With a feeling of cold dread, you spin on your heel to see a lumbering horde of twisted shapes staggering from the shadows. They appear neither human nor animal but a hideous fusion of the two. T'uk T'ron and the driver run past you, their crystal swords held ready to strike. <quote>Help us&ellips; we must save chariots or we all dead!</quote> he shouts over his shoulder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to help T'uk T'ron and his guards defend the chariots, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you decide to stay in the middle of the bridge and attempt to repair the hole, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to abandon the Ookor and escape across the bridge on foot, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After snatching a few hours' sleep you bid Lorkon and his warriors farewell and set off into the Nahgoth Forest. Guided by the map given to you by Serocca, you follow an old timberland path that has never before felt the tread of a man. This track leads to a place where the trees are twisted and gnarled into every conceivable shape. Some look like bent old men; others have straight trunks and curly branches; yet others are coal-black and petrified like fossils.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your fighting spirit seems to find favour with the leader. He is clearly impressed by your display of courage in the face of overwhelming odds and regards you with a new look of respect, the kind a warrior shows for an enemy he considers his equal. He sheathes his silver rod and calls one of his followers to step forward. With a nod of his head he commands him to fight you, and the golden-skinned giant obeys eagerly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a moment of cold fear when you first set eyes on the burial grounds of Tolakos. An eerie blue glow, cast by clumps of bacterial fungi, illuminates a mist that seeps from the tombs and crypts of this ancient necropolis. The swirling vapour is contained by a wall which encircles the graveyard, although it is broken in many places where trees have displaced the mouldering stonework. With a weapon at the ready you follow Odel towards one such gap in the wall, which is overshadowed by a great mausoleum.</p>
- <p><quote>This is the Vault of Sedron,</quote> whispers Odel, as he clambers over the rubble and crouches beside its damp grey wall. <quote>Old King Kalon sleeps here.</quote> He removes a throwing knife from his boot and with its tip he points to the other funereal landmarks of Tolakos and identifies them one by one. <quote>That's the Crypt of Juilor. Over there are the Graves of the Faithful, and there's Baylon's Tomb. The Chaos-master and his minions have kept us away from here for nearly a generation, but Lorkon is determined to wrest it from him and restore it to its past glory. Over there, near the centre, is the Grand Sepulchre. That's where the bloodline of the Ironheart clan are laid to rest.</quote></p>
- <p>You stare at this macabre building and a powerful feeling electrifies your body. The Sepulchre is an imposing sight, yet it is not the grim splendour of its design that exhilarates you. You are ablaze with the realization that somewhere here, in the Grand Sepulchre of the Ironhearts, lie the last two Lorestones of Nyxator: the objects of your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A walled city of low, pyramid-shaped dwellings lies spread along the centre of a narrow, wooded valley. Near the middle, rising high above the other buildings, stands a citadel, its colour identical to the drab grey of the sky. Admiringly you observe the intricate carvings which adorn its surface, but your enthusiasm is soon dampened when you see that the streets are teeming with the creatures you encountered at the monolith. You turn to leave but a strange compulsion draws your eyes back to the citadel: it is your Kai sixth sense and it is telling you that Serocca, the one who can aid you in your search for the Lorestones, resides here in this tower of stone.</p>
- <p>The path leads down to an open gate in the city wall where two of its ape-like inhabitants stand guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to approach the city gate, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to search for an unguarded entrance to the city, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in mortal combat against a huge, swarming mass of verminous horror intent on stripping your flesh to the bone!</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You are in mortal combat against a huge, swarming mass of<br />Chaos-rats intent on stripping your flesh to the bone</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-rats</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">62</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">You can evade combat after three rounds by running back to the Grand Sepulchre and attempting to force your way in: <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>This device,</quote> says the Beholder, pointing with pride at the huge, fiery vessel that dominates the gallery, <quote>is a Dimension Door. It will enable you to pass directly into the realm of Vhozada through a rent in the fabric of the Daziarn.</quote> You stare in awe at the sun-like ball trapped within the vessel and try to comprehend the secret sorceries that enable such a thing to exist.</p>
- <p><quote>You will come to learn that the laws which govern my world are quite unlike those which shape Aon. Here, time and space can be manipulated by those with power enough to craft them to their needs,</quote> he says, in answer to your thoughts. He wills his servant to carry him to another globe which stands close by. There he manipulates a bank of crystals and gradually a swirling circular grey shadow forms on the glassy surface of the vessel. It shimmers and you find that you cannot fully focus your eyes on it. <quote>Step forward and enter,</quote> commands the Beholder. <quote>The door to Vhozada is open.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Your skin prickles and your stomach churns, but you fight to control your fear by relying solely on your Kai skills. You sense that the Beholder is speaking the truth: the grey portal does lead to the realm of Vhozada. And so, with great trepidation, you bid him farewell and step into the void.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208"><link-text>Turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stepping out from behind a tree, you wave and shout a greeting to the three Meledorian scouts. Instinctively they dive for cover, fearing an ambush, and one looses a bolt from a crossbow-like device strapped to his arm. The bronze-tipped quarrel whistles towards your chest with unerring accuracy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery add 1 to this number for every Magnakai Discipline you have mastered after the first three (for example if you possess a total of five Magnakai Disciplines, add 2 to the number you have picked).</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If it is 3&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blasts of psychic force shoot from the shadow creatures and hurtle towards your mind, but you sense the danger and raise a psychic defence to deflect the attack. The hostile energy buckles your thought-shield and leaves you shivering with psychic shock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you have reached the rank of Scion-kai, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the power bolt lances towards your chest, you lash out and catch it a glancing blow with your Silver Rod. There is a blinding splash of colour and a fierce pain shoots up your arm, forcing you to drop the red-hot remains of the rod and snatch your blistered hand to your mouth: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The leader gives a low, guttural laugh and steps closer to the cairn, but he is stopped in his tracks when you leap from the rocky mound and prepare to defend yourself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184"><link-text>Turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step into the pool of light surrounding the collapsed tree, you hear a faint <quote>tut</quote>, as if someone nearby were spitting an insect from their mouth. Fear stabs your heart: you recognize the sound at once&emdash;it is the firing of a blow pipe!</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 1 to this number for every Magnakai Discipline you possess over and above the first three skills (for example if you possess six Magnakai Disciplines, add 3 to the number you have picked).</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The awesome creature is covered in scaly plates of horn which interlink to protect most of its body. There is only one place vulnerable to an arrow: its glowing green eyes.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You bring message from Lorkon Ironheart, yes? He will help us, yes? Send many warriors, yes?</quote> says the stumpy little creature, excitedly. You try to stall for time but your inability to answer his questions makes him suspicious. You catch the word <quote>chaos</quote> and <quote>wereling</quote> on the quiet undertone of twitterings that pass between the others, and notice that they are becoming increasingly agitated. Repeatedly the leader asks you for information until, in a fit of rage, he denounces you as an imposter. You have barely time enough to unsheathe a hand weapon as the Ookor rush forward and attack you with their spears.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ookor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you enter and follow a corridor that sweeps away in a smooth, curving arc. A line of doors, each one painted with the symbol of a writhing serpent, marches past on either side. The doors are invariably closed and their heavy iron drawbolts are locked in position. You ignore them and hurry on towards a distant staircase, for it is here that you sense that the power of the last Lorestone is at its strongest.</p>
- <p>The staircase opens on to a balcony, which overlooks a large, circular hall. Here the floor is made of a polished, blue-black marble that gleams like the still waters of a lake. At one end stands a massive table cluttered with artefacts, scrolls, and many strange potions and powders that hint at the practice of alchemy. At the opposite end of the hall is a towering arch, its surface sculptured with all manner of creatures, many of which stir a deep loathing within you. Beneath the arch is a complete darkness: no light at all penetrates or reflects in this inky abyss, for this is the Shadow Gate of Sandai, the doorway back to your home world.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84"><link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>T'uk T'ron and his driver jump down from the riding platform and run forward to examine the damage to the bridge. The other two chariots draw up on either side and the Ookor wait patiently for their leader to return.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you wish to follow T'uk T'ron and examine the bridge for yourself, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you choose to stay in the chariot and await his return, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once again your Kai senses warn you that this tomb door is protected by a powerful spell. If you inscribe the wrong symbols, you will break the spell and release its destructive energies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect198-1-foot" idref="sect198-1">
- <p>Delete your Backpack as well as its contents. You may not acquire any Backpack Items until your Backpack has been replaced.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have removed your Backpack and are undoing the buckles when two hairy, clawed paws reach up, hook themselves into the soles of your boots, and drag you down. The sudden jolt makes you drop your pack into the river (delete from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> all the items, including Meals, that you were carrying in your Backpack) <a id="sect198-1" idref="sect198-1-foot" class="footnote" /> and leaves you clinging to the beam with one hand, while trying desperately to free a weapon with the other. Your attacker&emdash;a huge, misshapen beast banded in black and brown fur&emdash;lunges repeatedly with its head as it tries to sink its fangs into your thigh.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If your total is now 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If it is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Just as the creature is poised to spring forward it hesitates. Its primeval senses detect that you are not as helpless as you seem, and a flicker of doubt passes across its cruel amber eyes. Instantly you seize the advantage and attack the beast before its appetite gets the better of its judgement.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Khozinda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the impetus of your attack you may add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Perched on a bough overhanging the roof is a gigantic black-winged bird. Seated on its back is a magnificent warrior dressed in scarlet silk and polished silver mail. His head is crowned by an elaborate helmet, its visor formed in the shape of a roaring dragon with jewelled eyes and fiery breath. The tangled branches prevent the bird from landing, but a rope ladder hangs from its saddle and the warrior uses it to climb down on to the roof. He leaps the last few feet and his landing disturbs the dense mist that carpets the surface, rolling it back to reveal two glowing golden spheres of crystal, each filled with fire, lying close to where he now stands. He crouches down and your stomach churns with dread as you see him reach out to grab the golden Lorestones.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>With dread, you watch the scarlet warrior reach<br />out to grab the golden Lorestones</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="680" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="680" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you have a bow and wish to fire at the warrior, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and attack him to prevent him from taking the Lorestones, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you wish to command him not to touch the Lorestones, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect201-1-foot" idref="sect201-1">
- <p>Depending on your interpretation of the rules, you may not be able to benefit from the use of a Shield during this combat.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from the dead Agtah in time to avoid the murderous leap of a snarling, dog-sized creature with large, bear-like paws. It hits the ground then leaps again and hangs on your arm, its clawed feet raking emptiness as it tries to rip your stomach. You strike a blow that opens a ragged gash in its neck but still it refuses to relinquish its grip and retaliates by sinking its fangs into your wrist: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah-hound</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). If the weapon you are using to defend yourself is a <a id="sect201-1" idref="sect201-1-foot" class="footnote">Broadsword, a Quarterstaff, or a Spear</a>, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you win and the fight lasts longer than three rounds, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Plain of Guakor stretches to the cloudy horizon like a vast sea of dust, broken only occasionally by a boulder or clump of wire-hard scrub. It is a drear panorama: a land once rich and fertile murdered by the curse of chaos. It instils in you a feeling of dread uncertainty at first, but as you trudge each weary mile, it slowly strengthens your determination to fulfil your quest. For the fate that has befallen Guakor will befall Sommerlund if you fail to find the last Lorestone and return to defeat Darklord Gnaag.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Shortly after your second stop for rest you hear a sound far to your right. A tiny speck in the grey sky grows steadily larger until, at last, you are able to discern its shape. A cold chill runs down your spine when you recognize its dragon-like features: it is a Zhengha, the scourge of Guakor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to try to hide from the beast, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you choose to stand your ground and await its arrival, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you search the bodies of your vanquished enemies. You discover the following items which could be useful:</p>
- <p>6 Spears (Weapons)</p>
- <p>2 Swords (Weapons)</p>
- <p>1 Axe (Weapons)</p>
- <p>Enough food for 3 meals (Meals)</p>
- <p>Conch Shell (Backpack Items)</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the items remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">To continue, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you draw the broadsword over your head and take aim at the Chaos-master's heart, yet even as you make your lunge he catches sight of you and twists to avoid your thrust. The sharp blade opens a fearful gash in his side but it misses its vital target. With a roar of agony the evil god staggers back, dropping his club as he clasps his side. Pain swiftly turns to a rage that fills him with a lust for vengeance and, with a hideous scream, he lunges at you with his gore-stained hands.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-master (badly wounded)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">58</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This being is immune to Mindblast (but not to Psi-surge). The Ironheart Broadsword is a magical weapon and adds 8 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a mighty screech, the dragonmounts take to the air in unison, the beat of their great wings filling your ears with a thunderous drumming noise. Your stomach heaves as the leader tugs at the reins, sending the beast labouring steeply into the fire-orange sky. The ground below falls away at an alarming rate and within minutes you are travelling hundreds of feet above the plateau, your vision blurred by the speed of the rushing wind.</p>
- <p>Beneath you the trackless waste stretches away to the burning horizon. Without sun or moon or any change in the brightness of the sky you find it impossible to gauge the passage of time. Twice you lapse into sleep, for how long you cannot guess, yet each time you wake the arrow-shaped flight formation of the dragonmounts remains unchanged and the Yoacor themselves show not the slightest sign of fatigue.</p>
- <p>At length the featureless wastes give way to thick, violet-coloured grasslands dotted with scab-like patches of marsh and bog. The air becomes humid and the faint smell of rotting vegetation conjures up memories of time spent in the Danarg. Gradually the lowlands rise and you soar above high valleys and rock-strewn meadows, broken hills and weather-worn crags. As you approach a narrow cleft between two mountainous peaks the leader raises his hand. Upon this signal the others close into single file. An immense crater lies beyond the pass and at its heart stands a city, the most beautiful city you have ever seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cursing vilely, he unsheathes a curvy-bladed sword and raises it to parry your first attack. You sense that he is a formidable fighter, but his wound has left him greatly weakened. His attacks are slow and erratic and you are determined to exploit your advantage to the full.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Scarlet Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you reduce his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to 20 points or less, do not continue the combat but <link-text>turn instead to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you kill him before his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 20 points (that is, if you score an <quote>automatically killed</quote> result on the Combat Results Table), <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seated before you at a desk lit by tall candles, one set at each corner, are two pale-skinned Meledorian nobles. The flickering yellow flame glints on the fine antique workmanship of their armour and exaggerates the shadows that play on their faces as they argue their strategies for an impending battle.</p>
- <p>On seeing you enter, the conference is brought to an abrupt close. One of the officers bows and takes his leave; the other beckons a scout to approach the desk and make his report. Briefly the scout tells of how they met you and what has become of your Ookor escort. He shows the officer the Obsidian Seal given to you by Serocca before leaving the city of Thas. The officer clasps the pyramidal stone in the palm of his hand then stares directly into your eyes. A tingle of surprise prickles your skin when you return his gaze, for you notice that his eyes are misty blue, without whites or any obvious pupil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the very moment you enter the Dimension Door a sensation of incredible speed assails you. A twirling spiral of light unfolds before your eyes and you hurtle towards its core, borne along in an envelope of grey cloud. You close your eyes but the light penetrates your eyelids, growing ever brighter. It fills your head with a madness of colour and forces a silent scream of anguish from your lips: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>A sudden lack of air leaves you gasping for breath, but it passes in an instant and when you blink open your eyes you discover that your journey is complete: you have arrived in Vhozada.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the curved floor of this spherical chamber a billowing mist arises. It blurs your vision and numbs your senses. As if in a dream, you feel yourself lifted by the buoyant cloud and transported across a vast, shadowy terrain, where spirit-shapes, like wisps of white silk, swirl around you in continuous motion. At first you cannot discern the nature of these gossamer forms, but slowly they draw into focus until at last you are able to distinguish their features. A cold terror grips your mind when you realize exactly what it is you are looking at.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect210-1-foot" idref="sect210-1">
- <p>If you already possess the maximum number of Special Items, you must discard one in favour of the Obsidian Seal.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>It seems as if you have only just closed your eyes when you are woken from your sleep by the sound of Serocca's voice echoing in your mind. <quote>The time has come for you to begin your journey, Lone Wolf.</quote> Quickly you dress and gather together your equipment before joining her at the Table of Visions. <quote>I have chosen T'uk T'ron, my most able and trusted Ookor captain, and a company of his best Thas guards to escort you to Tolakos. He is familiar with the forest tracts of the Khat Trisect and he will ensure that you do not lose your way.</quote></p>
- <p>She brings forth a black box inlaid with sparkling gems and unlocks it with a star-shaped key, which she wears on a slender chain around her neck. <quote>Take this, Lone Wolf, and keep it safe,</quote> she says, handing you a pyramid-shaped Obsidian Seal.</p>
- <p><quote>The war against the Chaos-master has made the Meledorians suspicious of all save their own kind, and they are wont to attack anything they fear could be an agent of chaos. When you meet them show them this seal and your safety will be assured.</quote> (Mark the Obsidian Seal on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in your pocket.)<a id="sect210-1" idref="sect210-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <quote>Do not speak of your quest to anyone except their leader&emdash;Lorkon Ironheart. Seek him out. In him you can place your trust. While you slept we communicated with our minds and he has vowed to help you find the Lorestones.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect211"><link-text>Turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She puts down the black box and gracefully walks towards the narrow exit from her chamber. In the room beyond you see a stocky Ookor clad in polished bronze armour, waiting patiently for you to appear. <quote>There is T'uk T'ron,</quote> she says fondly. <quote>He will be your guide.</quote></p>
- <p>The creature brings himself stiffly to attention and salutes you with pride. <quote>I am honoured to have been chosen,</quote> he says, using a language that approximates to your own. You return his salute then bid your thanks and farewell to Serocca.</p>
- <p><quote>You will succeed,</quote> she whispers, as she kisses your cheek. <quote>You must succeed.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect4"><link-text>Turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With plodding steps you set off towards the rocky cairn. Your feet sink ankle-deep into the hot red sand and you can only maintain your balance by leaning heavily into the wind. Walking soon becomes an ordeal and by the time you reach shelter you are near to exhaustion.</p>
- <p>Breathless and weary you crouch beside the mound and pray that the storm will soon subside. Then it occurs to you that the cairn is not a natural structure: the rocks have been stacked symmetrically, one upon the other, by someone or something who wished to leave their mark upon this wilderness. You examine the slabs more closely and discover one that is quite unlike the others. Its rectangular edges are even and its surface is mirror-smooth. Inscribed upon this slab are curious spidery markings.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you do not possess this Magnakai Discipline, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tell you that Lorkon Ironheart's army is within a league of Tolakos and will be here within the hour. Until then you must find somewhere safe from the chaos-horde or you will be overwhelmed and destroyed by sheer weight of numbers. Quickly you scan the surrounding crypts and note that, with the exception of the Grand Sepulchre and Baylon's Tomb, they are all in a state of ruin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you wish to attack the chaos-creatures that are blocking the entrance to the Grand Sepulchre, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you wish to run to Baylon's Tomb and attempt to hide there, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A terrible pain shoots through your lower body as the creature bites deep into your leg. Its razor-sharp teeth sever your femoral artery as it drags you down into the murky depths of the river. Weak through shock and massive loss of blood you slip rapidly from consciousness into the timeless embrace of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as the guards see you approaching they shuffle inside and quickly shut the gate. Moments later they reappear on the battlements above, from where they direct a stream of twittering noises at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Scion-kai, or if you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your index finger you inscribe the symbols in the malleable surface of the blank square. At first nothing happens. Then your inscription begins to fade until it has vanished completely. You step back, but not quickly enough to avoid a massive charge of electrical energy, which leaps from a tiny hole above the door and stabs you in the chest: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you survive this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn back to 25</link-text> and study the remaining symbols very carefully before you attempt to open the door again.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the gloom you are able to reach the top of the temple unseen. The vent is wide enough for you to pass through easily but the foul odour pouring out of the funnel makes you feel nauseous and dizzy (unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the fumes).</p>
- <p>A dim light glows somewhere in the depths of the shaft and the sound of grinding machinery is carried upward on the bad air. Gingerly you lower yourself down the soot-caked shaft to a place where another vent crosses it horizontally. Ten yards from this point you find a hatch. The hatch opens to reveal an empty chamber below, with several corridors radiating from it like the spokes of a wheel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper a warning to your guide, then simultaneously you dive for cover behind the same tree, out of the creature's line of fire. Odel rolls over and sits with his back to the trunk while he sets the metal crossbow that is strapped to his forearm. As soon as he is ready, you leap across the gap to another tree in the hope of drawing the creature's fire. Your ploy works: the sniper fires his blowpipe at your fleeting form, missing you by a wide mark, and Odel is able to pinpoint his position. He points and fires, sending his bronze bolt deep into the scaly abdomen of an Agtah sniper&emdash;your would-be assassin. The creature gives a piercing shriek and tumbles to the ground, landing with a sickening thud near the uprooted base of Baylon's Bough.</p>
- <p>You compliment Odel on his bow skill and rush forward, half-crouched, to search the chaos-creature's body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The room is large and airy with tall windows that look out over the city. Far below you can see the Yoacor crowding an avenue which leads to an outer level of Yanis. They move with such purposefulness that, from this great height, they resemble a vast community of worker ants. For several hours you stare down at the beautiful alien city and its industrious citizens while you try to make sense of your situation. Eventually you resolve to find out all you can from the one the leader called the <quote>Beholder</quote>. Perhaps he will be able to help you locate the Lorestones and find a way back to Magnamund. This decided you settle down to sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317"><link-text>Turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow arcs harmlessly over the creature's maw and disappears into the forest. Before you have a chance to reload and fire again, it swoops down and hovers menacingly above your head, its sword-like fangs poised to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tazgar Worm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the speed of its attack you must fight the first round unarmed, but you may unsheathe a hand weapon for use in the second and subsequent rounds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When your shadow falls across the blue door it begins to vibrate and the surface becomes pale and cloudy. You watch in amazement as the seemingly solid slab fades and then disappears completely. Beyond the empty arch you now see a magnificent sight&emdash;a treasure vault stacked high with priceless artefacts of the Ironheart clan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to enter this treasure vault, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The walled city of Thas, home of the Ookor, lies before you, spread out along the centre of a narrow wooded valley. The low, pyramid-shaped dwellings are built around a tower of stone, its colour identical to the drab grey of the sky. Straight thoroughfares teem with Ookor, who pass freely and leisurely through the criss-cross of narrow streets.</p>
- <p>The path leads down to an open gate in the city wall, guarded by two of the squat-limbed humanoids. When they see L'yan-K'ril and his patrol approaching with you in their midst they give a call and a crowd comes rushing out of the city. They gather round you, chirruping and twittering excitedly, while L'yan-K'ril tries his best to calm them down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your improved Kai skill saves you from swift death by neutralizing the deadly toxins suspended in the vapour. However, when you return to the door you discover that the lock differs from that of the Grand Sepulchre in one important respect: it jams for several hours following an unsuccessful attempt at opening it. With the hordes of chaos drawing ever closer, you are forced to abandon Baylon's Tomb and search elsewhere for shelter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to hide in the Crypt of Juilor, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you wish to hide in the Vault of Sedron, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you wish to return to the Grand Sepulchre and force your way in, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn the three cards over and notice that a different symbol is depicted on each. The first shows a castle on a hill, the second a dragon breathing fire, and the third a black serpent with red fangs. The old crone draws patterns in the air with a crooked finger and mutters to herself unremittingly. T'uk T'ron leans forward and offers his services as translator.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The old crone draws patterns in the air with a crooked finger<br />and mutters to herself about the three cards laid before her</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="694" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="694" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>She say that you will go to a castle far away where dragon breathes fire. In this castle is a snake. Beware this snake for it is very poisonous. If it bite you&emdash;you dead!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The giant approaches, stern-faced and resolute, his huge hands poised to grab you and tear you limb from limb. Quickly you unsheathe a hand weapon and prepare to receive his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Yoacor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The giant is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Out of the corner of your eye you notice T'uk T'ron and his driver scurrying back to help defend the chariots. He shouts encouragement and you are about to reply when a tusked creature bounds forward and launches itself at you. You deal it a powerful blow, ripping it from chest to tail, but, as soon as it falls, another is leaping at you from the side.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">33</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The starving Guakor Lizard looks at you with ravenous eyes. Its lower jaw drops open to reveal a gruesome set of curved yellow fangs, and its fetid breath washes over you in a sickening wave as it launches its desperate attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Guakor Lizard</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to its weakened state, this creature is especially susceptible to psychic attack. Double the effect of any psychic attacks you use during the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the brow of a grassy hill you stare across a strange yet familiar landscape. Before you lies an expanse of verdant grassland, with clumps of woodlands and several winding streams. The warm air smells fresh and clean and the distant sound of bird song is carried to you on the gentle breeze. Were it not for the grey, sunless skies above, it would be easy to believe that you had been returned to your home world.</p>
- <p>A sudden wave of homesickness makes you feel heavy-hearted, but you refuse to allow it to weaken your resolve. Instead, you scan the horizon in the hope of discovering some form of habitation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Each warrior carries a small crossbow attached by a metallic sleeve to his right forearm. The sight of these weapons, which can be fired in an instant, convinces you that it would be wise not to startle these scouts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to call to them who you are without revealing your position, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to step from the bushes with your hands above your head, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The huge, winged beast soars over your position and circles twice before it loses interest in what appears to be a cluster of grey rocks. Not daring to move a muscle, you wait until you can no longer hear the beat of its wings before uncurling yourself and staggering to your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Being highly suspicious of your surroundings and all they contain you decide to examine them more closely. You discover nothing of interest until you search the divan: there you find a Yoacor dagger wedged deep between the cushions. Owing to the size of this weapon, if you wish to keep it, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Sword.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Meledorians are overjoyed to have witnessed the spectacular defeat of the Chaos-master, for your victory has rid them of their greatest enemy. They call to you to come down from the roof, and when you appear in the doorway, they shower you with praise.</p>
- <p><quote>We owe you more than our lives, Aonian,</quote> says Lorkon, his strange blue eyes aglow with admiration. <quote>Your great deed has saved our realm and put an end to the plague of chaos that would have corrupted us all. We are forever in your debt.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Where is this key which allows entry to the Shadow Gate of Haagadar?</quote> you ask, anxiously.</p>
- <p>Serocca raises her eyes from the table and smiles. <quote>Power is the key, and the power is now within your grasp. The two Lorestones of Nyxator are the power&emdash;they are the key to your escape from the Daziarn. You must retrieve them from Tolakos, in the Nahgoth Forest, then go to Haagadar. The Shadow Gate is to be found in the Temple of the Sandai at the centre of the city. I can help you reach Tolakos but beyond the Nahgoth my powers of vision grow dim. You must let your skills and this map be your guide there.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You study the map, noting with dismay the great distance which<br />separates the Nahgoth Forest from the city of Haagadar</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="772" height="588" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="772" height="588" />
- </illustration>
- <p>From the pocket of her silken robes she produces a Map which she presses into your hand (mark this on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry inside your tunic). You unfurl the parchment and study its contents (see the accompanying illustration), noting with dismay the great distance which separates the Nahgoth Forest from the city of Haagadar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite their attractive aroma, the orange berries taste bitter and powdery. You force yourself to swallow and find it hard not to cough when the buds stick in your throat. Odel glances over his shoulder to see what is wrong and his face freezes in a mask of horror. <quote>No!</quote> he cries. <quote>They're poisonous!</quote></p>
- <p>A grinding pain grips your stomach, making you double up and fall to your knees: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you possess some Laumspur, Laumwort, or Oede Herb, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you do not possess any of these items, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn you that the track leads into a section of the Nahgoth that was once occupied by the Chaos-master. The twisted trunks are evidence of the corruption he instilled in everything he touched. Although he has been defeated, it will be a long time before the scars of his corruption heal completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you wish to follow the track into the chaos-zone, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you decide to leave the track and make a detour around this part of the Nahgoth, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The noise of the approaching whirlwind grows steadily louder and the ground shudders violently beneath your feet. A great blast of dust and debris is sucked from the depths of the fissure. It catches you full in the chest and knocks you off balance, causing you to fall and gash your head. Blinded by the sudden pain, you are now unable to resist the full force of the whirlwind raging directly above the gully and are drawn up into the vortex never to be seen again.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here on the Zhamin plateau of the Daziarn Plane.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Peering over the parapet, you try to locate the Lorestone, but it is impossible to see through the eerie blue carpet of grave mist. You are about to leave the roof when you hear a thrumming noise, like the sound of wild and discordant drumming. You peer in the direction of the noise and see a line of hulking shapes shambling towards the gaps in the perimeter wall. Instantly you recognize them&emdash;they are Agtah, the hideous creations of the Chaos-master.</p>
- <p>Spurred on by anger and fear, you race through the inner sanctum of the Sepulchre and skid to a halt outside its great door. There, shrouded in mist, you discover the body of your guide, his chest torn open and blackened by a bolt of power that claimed his life. You kneel to close his sightless eyes and immediately sense that the Lorestone is close at hand. Guided by instinct you race towards the Lorestone but, as you are running past the entrance to a crypt, you are set upon by a pair of snarling chaos-creatures.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68"><link-text>Turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Come, you must rest before your journey to Tolakos. I shall arrange for my Ookor to take you there after you have slept and recovered your strength.</quote></p>
- <p>Serocca rises from her seat and bids you follow her to an adjoining room where there is food, a bath and a comfortable bed. There she leaves you, returning to the table to consult its visions, while you try to relax despite the heavy sense of foreboding that haunts your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">Restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to its original level, before <link-text>turning to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In order to overcome this obstacle, you need to let go of the cliff-face, lean back, grab hold of the ledge, and then pull yourself up using your arms alone. Patiently you wait for a lull in the wind, but when you finally release your grip, a sudden crosswind catches you and blows you sideways. Desperately you scrabble for a hand hold, but you are already falling backwards. You scream, until you smash to the ground among the boulders that litter the base of the cliff.</p>
- <choice>Tragically your life and your quest end here at Haagadar.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures latch on to your scent and emit a strange, high-pitched twittering sound which alerts the others to your hiding place. You leap to your feet unsheathing a hand weapon, but before you have a chance to evade them they surround you and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ookor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow flies straight and true. It pierces the Zhengha's eye and sends it soaring upwards into the sky, screeching an agonized cry across the desolate plain. At the top of its arc it breathes its last fiery breath then plummets to the ground with a resounding crash.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your words have barely left your lips before they are answered by a volley of bronze-tipped bolts, loosed in the direction of your voice. Two cut through the foliage and speed past your head, but the third is aimed lower and carves a neat notch from your thigh before disappearing into the ground: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>In the next instant the scouts explode through the undergrowth and surround you, their crossbows ready to fire again should you attempt to resist. One leans forward and pulls you roughly to your feet, demanding that you identify yourself or suffer the consequences. You tell him who you are and suggest that he look in your pocket if he requires proof that you speak the truth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wheels shriek and the chariot veers wildly from side to side as it careers down the bumpy river bank.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the freezing wind and the near-vertical angle of ascent, your basic Kai skills enable you to climb the pitted cliff wall with little difficulty to begin with. However, when you reach the halfway point, you are faced by a ledge of sandstone that juts out several feet from the wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess a Rope add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or more, add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the slain Khozinda falls to the cavern floor, its broad tail twitching spasmodically. When finally it comes to rest you approach the carcass and examine more closely this creature of the Daziarn. Although the shape of its body appears reptilian, its scales are quite unlike those of any lizard you have seen before. They are thin yet incredibly hard and seem to be formed from a substance more akin to glass than skin or bone. You ponder the origins of this curious beast until eventually the fatigue of your ordeal catches up with you (you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Unable to resist any longer, you close your eyes and drift into a deep and dreamless sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264"><link-text>Turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the depths of the Nahgoth Forest crawls a nightmare army of gibbering chaos-creatures. They are directed by one sinister being and all are obedient to his silent command. You run towards the Sepulchre with terror in your heart as their writhing shapes pour through the gaps in the perimeter wall in ever increasing numbers. You evade their spears and stones but, as you reach the great door, you are confronted by three tentacled horrors, wearing heavy armour strapped to their warty hides. Their bloated bodies fill the doorway and prevent you from entering.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>As you reach the great door, you are confronted by<br />three tentacled horrors, the fearsome Octagtah</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="681" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="681" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, Huntmastery or Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you possess none of these skills, you can either attack the three creatures: <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">Or, you can evade them and search elsewhere for a place to hide: <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cool gloom of the Nahgoth Forest floor seems to continue indefinitely. Then you arrive at a place where one of the massive trees has fallen and torn a gap in the canopy of leaves. There the gloom is brightened by a narrow column of light.</p>
- <p><quote>That's Baylon's Bough,</quote> whispers Odel, pointing at the decaying trunk. <quote>Just another league and we'll be at Tolakos.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stream wends its way sluggishly through a mossy glen to a thicket of red-leaved trees which stand in a semicircle around a pale grey, metallic monolith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you wish to investigate this strange monolith, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you choose to avoid it, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow strikes the ornate dragon which decorates the visor of his helmet, and shatters in two against its hardened steel. He utters a mocking laugh, his green, cat-like eyes glinting through the visor slits, and hurriedly drops the Lorestones into a small velvet sack tied to his swordbelt. Angered by his laugh, and your failure, you shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon as you run forward to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flickering patterns draw into focus and you see before you a panoply of strange scenes, and the faces of many unknown creatures, some human, some bestial, and some that defy description.</p>
- <p><quote>Many of the events which have befallen your world are mirrored here in the Daziarn,</quote> says Serocca, as you watch, with growing fascination, the image of a battle taking place between men and beasts. <quote>We too are threatened by the forces of darkness. Many ages ago we triumphed over evil, but our victory was incomplete. Now our nemesis has come in the guise of the Chaos-master. Everywhere his seething corruptions encroach upon the goodly realms of the Daziarn, twisting and consuming all they touch.</quote></p>
- <p>The vision of the battle fades and is replaced by a living map, similar to the light-picture you were shown by the Beholder of Yanis. <quote>Here are the realms that lie between the elemental strongholds of Earth and Water. Once this region was rich and populous with the creatures of light, but now it lies ravaged by the cancerous Realm of Paradox. Only Vhozada and Meledor continue to resist; the others have either disappeared into the Neverness or been transformed into desolate wastelands. Here&ellips;</quote> she says, pointing to the middle of the table, <quote>is the Nahgoth Forest, once the most fertile of the great timberlands; now the scourge of chaos splits it asunder. And here, the Plain of Guakor, the mightiest realm the Daziarn has ever known, reduced to dust by a plague of fire-breathing Zhengha.</quote></p>
- <p>Tears well up in her eyes and you sense that the vision of Guakor has stirred painful memories.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to ask what troubles her, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you choose not to intrude on her grief, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the treasure vault and recommence your search for the Lorestones. You concentrate on the source of their radiant power and your eyes are drawn inexorably towards the ceiling. Nothing stirs in these shadowy reaches, yet you sense that the Lorestones are there. Then you notice the stairs and the circular portal and at once you realize that they must provide access to the flat roof of the Sepulchre. With your heart pounding in your chest you race up the steps, confident of finding the two objects of your quest waiting for you on the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Magnakai skill enables you to understand what these beings are saying. One demands to know why you are violating the sacred burial tomb of Ztuul, one of their most revered hunters, and the other asks how you came to be here, alone and without any means of transportation. You sense that they speak not in their native tongue but in a language they assume to be yours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to tell them that you are from the world of Magnamund and that you arrived here after having fallen through a Shadow Gate, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you choose to ignore their questions and remain silent, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A loud click issues from the lock and the portal creaks open to reveal a long, dark corridor. Quickly you step inside and swing shut the heavy door to deny entry to the screaming horde of chaos-creatures assembling outside. Tubes of green glass set into niches in the wall cast a faint glow by which you can see your way to the chamber at the heart of the tomb. Here lie the remains of Baylon, ancient ruler of Meledor, encased in a sarcophagus of gleaming, gem-studded silver.</p>
- <p>To the rear of the chamber you notice a stair that ascends to the ceiling where, like the Grand Sepulchre, there is a circular portal that gives access to the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you wish to search the chamber, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to investigate the sarcophagus, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you choose instead to go up on the roof and spy on the advancing horde, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>T'uk T'ron runs to your side, his face and crystal sword spattered with the black blood of his foes. <quote>Hurry! This fight lost. You go&ellips; go now!</quote> he snaps, and points across the bridge to the hills beyond. A cursory glance confirms his grim statement. Only he and two of his guards remain standing and one fights left-handed, his right arm swinging broken and useless by his side. The others, including all the onipa, have been slain by the howling creatures of chaos.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you obey T'uk T'ron's command and hurry across the bridge, whilst he and his brave Ookor guards fight to cover your escape. Not until you reach the first ridge of hills do you look back at the bridge, hoping to see T'uk T'ron and his guards victorious. But your hope is in vain&emdash;all that remains alive at the bridge is a ghoulish grey horde of feasting Agtah.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114"><link-text>Turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your powerful healing skills you cause a surge of anti-toxins to be released into your bloodstream to combat the effects of the poison. Swiftly the deadly venom is neutralized and your metabolism returns to normal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch down, making use of the cover afforded by a leafy tree, and draw an arrow to your lips. Two of the creatures have clambered through the foliage and halted less than ten paces away, offering themselves as perfect targets. You release your bowstring and send the shaft thudding into the chest of one, knocking it backwards with the force of the shot. Instantly, its companion emits a strange, high-pitched twittering sound, alerting the others to your position, and before you can either reload or run away, they close in from all sides and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ookor</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">43</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first round of combat, owing to the speed of your enemy's attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great, silvery-winged worm swoops down and hovers above your head, lunging sporadically to stab you with its long, sword-sharp fangs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tazgar Worm</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain shrugs his hairy shoulders and motions to the driver not to stop. As you pass through the village, a group of Ookor children cheer and wave and toss flowers at the speeding chariots. One of the red blooms lands in the crook of your arm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the guards spring into action, drawing their jagged swords and raising them in readiness to strike. Your bluff has not deceived them and they are determined to capture you&emdash;dead or alive!</p>
- <combat><enemy>Sandai Temple Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Much of the porous rock that surrounds the slab has been eroded by wind and sand. Holes have appeared through which you can see into the cairn. It is hollow. Curiosity and the need for better shelter prompt you to try to dislodge the slab and, after much effort, you pull it free, leaving an opening the size of a trapdoor in the side of the mound.</p>
- <p>Inside the gloomy interior you discover a large, metallic statue lying horizontally on a bed of clear, crystalline sand. You try to perceive some detail but the shape is shrouded in near darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you possess a Kalte Firesphere, a Lantern, or a Torch and Tinderbox, and wish to illuminate this dark interior, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you do not possess any of the above items, or if you do not wish to make use of them, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect261-1-foot" idref="sect261-1">
- <p>Restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to reflect the effects of the draught you have just drunk.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wine has been charmed with a potent magical spell, imbuing it with special healing properties. Having drunk one draught, there are now only two draughts remaining in the Silver Flask. Each draught restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<a id="sect261-1" idref="sect261-1-foot" class="footnote" /> If you wish to keep this Silver Flask, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The vision of the Nahgoth Forest dissolves and a new one takes its place. It is of a city, perched atop a rocky cliff, surrounded by a wall fortified with towers and grim bastions. Red flames glare from a row of tiny windows and its huge stone gate is emblazoned with the symbol of a fiery dragon.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>This is Haagadar,</quote> says Serocca, cheerlessly. <quote>Once it was the home of the Sandai, the rulers of the Great Plains that stretched to the very edge of the strongholds of Earth. They were the first to fall to chaos and now their plains are dead and empty wastelands of sterile rock and poisoned sand. Haagadar was claimed by the Chaos-master and it became his abode but, as his foul empire expanded, he grew tired of it and abandoned it for other, less remote, cities. It lay deserted for an age before outlaws and refugees from Guakor sought sanctuary there from the creatures of chaos. It is now a forgotten city, yet within its heart there lies a secret that even the Chaos-master failed to discover: the Sandai were the guardians of a Shadow Gate. Long had they kept hidden this portal whilst they searched for a means to enter it, for unlike the Shadow Gates of your world, those of the Daziarn are closed. Only those who possess a key can pass from this realm into the universe of Aon.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shaft penetrates his chainmail at an angle, ripping through his padded underjacket and cutting across his chest. The force of the arrow stuns him momentarily and he cries out in pain. But the pain does not prevent him from scooping the Lorestones into a small velvet sack tied to his swordbelt. Quickly you shoulder your bow in favour of a hand weapon as you rush forward to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake with a start, stirred to consciousness by the distant flap of large wings beating in a windless sky. The sounds grow louder and quickly you gather up your equipment and hurry out of the cavern to investigate their source.</p>
- <p>The storm died down while you slept and the plateau is now becalmed. From the rim of the gully you can see six black shapes silhouetted on the blazing horizon. They resemble dragons with snaky necks and ragged bat-like wings. Upon their backs they carry gold-skinned creatures, human in appearance save for their lack of hair and their massive size.</p>
- <p>The leader sees you: he banks his dragonmount towards the gully and the others follow closely in his wake. You fear they are about to attack, but at the last moment they veer away and circle the gully before landing nearby. With practised ease the leader and two of his brothers dismount from their winged steeds. They each dwarf you by an arm's length, and, although their heavy muscular bodies seem incapable of stealth, they approach like lions stalking their prey. <foreign><quote>Zeeu klo-ka n'ra?</quote></foreign> speaks the leader, his voice deep and resonant. <foreign><quote>Ryl'aan noorna?</quote></foreign> says another, impatiently.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have attained the Kai rank of Scion-kai, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you do not possess this Magnakai Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of training, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After your encounter you stop to rest less frequently. Mile after mile you plod on mechanically, only half aware of the lifeless landscape through which you move. Fatigue dulls your senses and you cannot recall the exact moment you entered the Neverness; like a dream, it is as if you have always been here. Clouds swirl beneath your feet yet they support your weight. You float in a sea and sky of grey light without horizon or boundary, a limitless eternity of space. There are distant sounds, like muffled voices, but when you strive to understand them they fade and you cannot catch the words.</p>
- <p>Time passes, yet time is meaningless, for you cannot tell the order in which events are taking place. From out of the swirling wisps of cloud three globes of darkness arise. They swim closer, hovering to and fro, evolving into the forms of black-hooded riders on demon steeds. Leering skulls peer from the shadow of their cloaks and you see your own eyes reflected in their bony sockets.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch the reins from the startled driver and pull hard to the left, steering the onipa team clear of the bridge. But your action does not slow them down and you find yourself racing headlong towards the river. With terrified cries, both T'uk T'ron and the driver cover their eyes as the muddy water looms into view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to pull the brake lever, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to drop the reins and leap out of the chariot <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Luck be with you, Aonian,</quote> says Lorkon, as you turn to leave his cabin. <quote>Remember, I will be marching to Tolakos as soon as my reinforcements arrive.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank him and bid him farewell, before following Odel the scout as he wends his way through the busy encampment to the equipment tent. Two grim-faced guards bar your entry, but when Odel tells them on whose authority you are here, they quickly lower their spears and allow you to pass. The tent is full of weapons and provisions and Odel suggests that you take whatever you need. You may select from the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>6 Arrows</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>Backpack</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">To continue, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swirling light draws into focus upon the mirrored floor and you find yourself surrounded by a spectacular cosmic image. At the centre spins a shadow, as dark as deep space, populated with suns and stars and the myriad planets that revolve about them. This microscopic universe is in turn surrounded by a ring of total darkness, and beyond that radiate four beams of differing colour, like the spokes of a gigantic wheel. Between these beams are many areas of light and shade, some running parallel and some in isolation, but all of them connected by a pale, shimmering mist. <quote>What you see before you is a tableau of our worlds, a light-painting that depicts the universe of Aon and the Daziarn Plane,</quote> says the Beholder, as his servant carries him to the dark centre of the floor. <quote>Here, among the suns and stars of Aon, is the planet you know as Magnamund, and beyond it lies the Shadow Gate through which you fell into the Daziarn.</quote> Slowly the Yoacor moves towards you, bearing his master with care as he continues his monologue proudly. <quote>And here, balanced between the elemental strongholds of Fire and Water, lies the Abaxial of Czenos. This is my realm. I have chosen to live here, to shape it as I wish and to populate it with beings who embody my ideals.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description><quote>What you see before you is a tableau of our worlds: the universe<br />of Aon and the Daziarn Plane,</quote> says the Beholder</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="772" height="589" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="772" height="589" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Coldly the Beholder stares into your eyes and you feel your body stiffen as he probes deep into your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist aside and the bolt scrapes a line of flesh from your ribs before embedding itself in the trunk of a tree behind: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Stifling a cry of pain, you drop to your knees and crawl rapidly through the undergrowth, lest they fire at the place where you fell. You stop just long enough to staunch the blood from your wound but, as you are about to continue, the scouts burst through the foliage and surround you, their bows held ready to finish you off. One reaches down and pulls you roughly to your feet, demanding that you identify yourself or suffer the consequences. You tell him who you are and suggest that he look in your pocket if he requires proof that you speak the truth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect270-1-foot" idref="sect270-1">
- <p>The <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for using a Shield does not apply here, nor do those for using Alether or weapon-like Special Items such as the Sommerswerd. Depending on your interpretation of the rules, the bonus granted by the Silver Helm may still be applicable, as it appears to be magical in nature. Also, any bonuses to <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> due to armour should not be applied during this combat.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your energy on the approaching shadows and prepare to engage them in psychic combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shadow Reavers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Conduct this mind combat following normal combat procedure, although, in this instance, Weaponskill bonuses cannot be used to increase your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score. Instead, for every Magnakai Discipline you possess over and above the first three skills, you may add 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight. Also, if you possess a Psychic Ring, or a Grey Crystal Ring, you may add a further 3 points (per item) to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><a id="sect270-1" idref="sect270-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lizard beast yawns, exposing a wickedly curved beak and a jaw set with dagger-sharp fangs. It snickers evilly, relishing the thought of killing and devouring you at its leisure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you possess a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On reaching the crypt you find it overrun by bloated, toad-like monstrosities with huge heads and mottled, glistening skins. They croak and growl hungrily as they latch on to your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you possess a Fireseed and wish to throw it, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and fight these toad-like horrors, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide to run back to the Grand Sepulchre and attack the three creatures that block its entrance, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the chariots just as the first wave of chaos-creatures launch their attack. Raging viciously, they slaver in for the kill, fighting with fang and claw and yellowed tusk. A screaming horror, its body striped with ochre lines, leaps from the back of a startled onipa and hurtles towards you with its crimson jaw gaping wide. You tense yourself in readiness to strike as its shadow falls upon your face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Striped Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the speed and ferocity of its attack, you cannot evade combat or make use of a bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed and determination of your attack takes your adversary by surprise. Before he can scoop the Lorestones into a small velvet sack hanging from his swordbelt, you strike a blow that causes him to back away hastily. An intoxicating rush of energy washes over your body as you step within a few feet of the Lorestones, but this charge momentarily numbs your reflexes, leaving you unprepared for your enemy's response. He unsheathes a curvy-bladed sword and launches a flurry of blows aimed at your head, forcing you to duck and retreat to avoid instant decapitation. He takes this opportunity to stoop down and drop the Lorestones in the sack before springing forward, like a big cat, to continue the fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Scarlet Warrior</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you reduce his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to 20 points or less, do not continue the combat but <link-text>turn instead to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you kill him before his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 20 (that is, if you score an <quote>automatically killed</quote> result on the Combat Results Table), <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The base of the monolith is overgrown with weeds and wild flowers, indicating that it has stood here for some considerable time, yet its metallic surface bears no obvious signs of weathering. It is tipped with a transparent spike, which resembles a short glass spear. You can hear a faint humming sound when you place your ear to its mirror-smooth spire. The sound seems to originate somewhere deep below the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have attained the Kai rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At length you emerge from the marsh at a place where a track cuts through the forest. You follow this rough, timberland trail until, after countless hours, you arrive at the edge of the Plain of Guakor. You are now extremely tired and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Rather than attempt an immediate crossing of this barren waste, you decide to rest here and continue after some much needed sleep.</p>
- <p>Ten hours later you awake refreshed and eager to begin the next leg of your journey to Haagadar. After checking your equipment and your map, you set off across the featureless plateau.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If it is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through gritted teeth, you tell Odel to remove the healing potion from your pack and empty its contents into your mouth. Swiftly he complies and within a few seconds the painful stomach cramps subside and you begin to recover your strength as the potion neutralizes the deadly toxin.</p>
- <p>Odel wipes the sweat from his brow and breathes a sigh of relief. The Meledorians have no known cure for Khetu poisoning, and for a moment he feared you were going to die.</p>
- <p>If you wish to collect a handful of these deadly Khetu Spores, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and stand poised to strike down any who would dare come within range. The chariots screech to a halt and a score of Ookor guards leap from the riding platforms. They come scurrying towards you, their glass-tipped spears thrust before them. Their leader motions to you to sheathe your weapon or face the consequences. You ignore his signals and get ready to attack him. Then you see more chariots emerge from the city to reinforce the patrol. With the odds stacked so heavily in their favour reluctantly you decide to raise your hands and allow these ape-men to march you into their city under heavy guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With panther-like grace you swing clear of the cliff wall, grab hold of the ledge with both hands, and pull yourself over the obstacle. The remainder of the climb is easy by comparison and you soon reach the top to find yourself standing in the shadow of the huge dragon gate. Two iron-banded doors set into the stone offer access to the city. They are unguarded and you enter and walk undetected along the flagstoned street beyond.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Behind the huge black bird, the scarlet warrior's winged steed, lies<br />the temple of the Sandai, guarded by two armour-clad creatures</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Few walk the shadowy avenues of Haagadar; the atmosphere is so thick with the smell of salt and sulphur that those who you do pass are unrecognizable behind the damp pads they press to their faces to ward off the cloying stench. The dimly lit street ends at a central square where you witness two encouraging sights. Roped to a stone monolith at the centre of the square is a huge, black bird&emdash;the scarlet warrior's winged steed. Behind it, rising in flat-topped tiers, is the Temple of the Sandai. Two armour-clad creatures stand guard at the entrance, their rusty helmets crudely adapted to fix their face pads in position. You sense that the Lorestone is here within the temple, and you scan every inch of it in the hope of finding an unguarded entrance. There are no other doors, but a circular, chimney-like vent protrudes from the middle of the highest tier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you decide to climb to the top of the temple and attempt an entry through the vent, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to cover your face and attempt to bluff your way past the guards, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The golden-skinned giants scowl with disdain when you offer no reply. Their leader draws a silver rod from his lizard-scale vest, levels it menacingly at your chest, and slowly repeats the words he has spoken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess a Silver Rod, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zhengha approaches with deadly grace, its huge, grey-green wings bearing it along at marvellous speed. Wisps of smoke trail from its fanged mouth and its emerald eyes sparkle like a pair of evil jewels. It circles you once to consider its action before diving to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two Ookor scurry across the planks and you follow closely on their heels, running half-crouched to make use of the cover afforded by the parapet of the bridge. You reach the centre of the bridge and are relieved to see that the damage is not beyond repair; whoever did this wanted to delay not destroy. T'uk T'ron signals to his guards to come and lend a hand with the repairs, but as soon as they leave the chariots a chilling howl echoes from the nearby trees. <quote>Agtah!</quote> moans T'uk T'ron, his voice a whisper of fear. <quote>Creatures of chaos!</quote></p>
- <p>A shiver runs down your spine when you see them. Lumbering hordes of twisted shapes lurch from the trees on either side of the bridge and stagger drunkenly towards the chariots. They appear to be neither animal nor human but a ghastly fusion of the two. Now only two drivers remain with the onipa teams and T'uk T'ron is quick to see the danger. He commands the guards to return and leads them back across the bridge with his crystal sword held high.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to follow T'uk T'ron and help him defend the chariots, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you decide to stay where you are and attempt to repair the bridge, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to abandon the Ookor and escape across the bridge on foot, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill alerts you to the possibility of an ambush. A group of hostile creatures are approaching the thicket, drawn by the sound of an alarm, inaudible to human ears, which you set off by touching the monolith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to evade these creatures, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you decide to stay and confront them, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim at the creature's gaping maw as it comes sweeping down to attack.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Odel replenishes a quiver of bolts that he carries on his hip and checks that the crossbow he wears strapped to his forearm is functioning properly. Satisfied, he folds away its hinged bow arms, then slips a brace of throwing knives into the tops of his boots. <quote>Are you ready?</quote> he asks, as you finish adjusting your equipment. <quote>Yes,</quote> you reply, confidently. <quote>Let's go.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You leave the encampment by slipping over the perimeter wall, and quickly merge like shadows into the thick forest beyond. The giant trunks support a canopy of dense foliage that blocks out most of the light and keeps the forest floor bathed in a perpetual twilight. A carpet of moss muffles your footfalls and the only foliage that grows in abundance is a bushy velvet lichen patterned with orange-headed, tooth-sized growths.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow tears into its eye, splitting it open like a burst egg. It ends its flight buried deeply in the creature's brain, bringing death in an instant and sparing the beast the agony of its terrible wound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite his attempts to save himself, your shaft penetrates his chainmail vest and sinks deep into his side. He screams in pained surprise before wrenching the offending shaft from his body and hurling it back at you with contempt. His fortitude is impressive but you can tell that he has suffered a serious wound. Feverishly he scoops the Lorestones into a small velvet sack tied to his swordbelt, while you shoulder your bow, draw a hand weapon and run forward to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>It is the cruelty of the Chaos-master that saddens me so,</quote> she says in a whisper, as if fearing to be overheard. <quote>Before his coming, the Plain of Guakor was ruled by a great warrior called Sinay, whose only fault, it was said, was a surfeit of pride. He loved me and wished for the union of our realms, but, alas, his love was unrequited; the joining of Guakor and Vhozada was not to be. To win my love and restore his injured pride, Sinay struck a bargain with the Chaos-master, for in keeping with the paradoxical nature of that god, he is obliged to indulge in the granting of wishes to those who would dare demand them of him. The Chaos-master wove a spell to enchant me and Sinay was granted his wish: I became enamoured of him. But the bargains of the Chaos-master are in keeping with his nature&emdash;they are cruel and fickle. Upon the hour of our wedding he appeared and demanded that Sinay pay for his wish by ceding him half his realm. He was refused, and in retribution he imprisoned me here in this tower and wrought upon Sinay such physical mutation that he fled Guakor and hid himself in shame.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Do you know what became of him?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes,</quote> she replies, sadly. <quote>He is the ruler of a new realm. He has regained his power but his body is forever a cruel reminder of his pact with the Chaos-master. He is the one who sent you to me&emdash;he is the Beholder of Yanis.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch the dead beast splash into the water, then focus your attention on the battle now raging around the chariots. The situation looks desperate: T'uk T'ron and his guards are hard-pressed to keep the chaos-creatures from breaking through to the bridge. You see the Ookor captain slay a loping, pig-like monster, then he moves towards you, waving his sword and shouting something you cannot hear clearly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you wish to find out what T'uk T'ron is saying, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you decide to abandon the Ookor and his guards and escape across the bridge, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghostly forms possess the faces of every enemy you have ever slain. They twist and contort beneath your gaze, their empty eyes burning with cold blue flames as they return your stare. Frantically you draw on your psychic reserves and succeed in shielding your mind from the shock of this haunting confrontation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your Kai skill on the Beholder and try to fathom if his intentions are for good or ill. You sense he possesses immense powers, both physical and psychic, which radiate from his body like the rays of an invisible sun. You concentrate on this power but all you can discern is that he is capable of using it to further both good and evil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152"><link-text>Turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you continue along the track, the strange trees make you feel uneasy, doubly so because they are totally motionless. Soon you come to a clearing where a large bore-hole has obliterated the path. You decide to investigate the hole and, as you peer into the blackness, you hear a thin, wailing cry far below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to shout into the hole, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to hurry away from the hole and leave the clearing, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A gush of psychic energy floods your mind. It washes over your thoughts, searching for some evidence of hostile intent. You fight to resist this intrusion and the wave quickly recedes, but it leaves you shivering with the chill of psychic shock: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry towards the woods that line the valley, hoping the trees will hide you from the watchful eyes of the guards as you skirt the city wall. But your presence has already been noted by a lookout stationed high in the grey tower, who saw you standing at the top of the hill. He has sent word to the gate guards to prepare a special patrol.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Five chariots driven by a score of Ookor guards charge out of the<br />city and come thundering across the grassland towards you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="590" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="590" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Five chariots, drawn by fearsome beasts that are only a little like horses, charge out of the city and come thundering across the grassland. Your first reaction is to run for the forest, but the chariots are moving at a terrific pace and you know they could ride you down before you reached the trees. Their riders whoop with glee as they spread out to encircle you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you wish to unsheathe a hand weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you decide to raise your hands in surrender, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill saves you from ending your days in the stomach of this giant Guakor Lizard. It growls menacingly, before turning and retreating to the shelter of its lair among the boulders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you slip your bow from your shoulder and draw an arrow. The creature is close: you can sense it getting ready to pounce. Then, with matchless speed and skill, you twist around and shoot your arrow beneath the bridge. A loud yelp of pained surprise issues from below and you catch a glimpse of a hairy, misshapen creature tumbling into the river with your shaft driven deep into its forehead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The torrid winds sweep across the landscape with increasing ferocity, forcing you to protect your eyes from the gusts of sharp, stinging sand. The need to find cover takes priority when you sense that the winds are merely the prelude to a storm. To remain here in the open could prove a fatal mistake.</p>
- <p>Peering through your fingers you try to find somewhere to take shelter. To your left, in the middle distance, you can see what appears to be a mound of volcanic stone slabs; to your right, but further away, you notice a shallow gully running lee to the wind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you wish to take shelter behind the mound of stones, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you decide to shelter in the gully, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect298-1-foot" idref="sect298-1">
- <p>You may not evade combat if you have already visited Baylon's Tomb. If so, you must stay and fight.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The three creatures bellow and growl as your blows find their way between their plates of armour, and they retaliate by lashing you with their suckered tentacles. Their attacks are ill-aimed and clumsy, but wherever one of their rubbery limbs touches your body it leaves an angry red weal.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Octagtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">43</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, add 2 to any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during this combat, owing to the poisonous lash of their tentacles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">You can evade combat at any time by running towards Baylon's tomb: <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.<a id="sect298-1" idref="sect298-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You jump clear and hit the bank with a jolt that leaves you breathless. The ground is soft but there are many boulders embedded along the river's edge and, as you roll down the slope, you cannot avoid colliding with some of them.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <p>If your total is now 3 or less, lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If it is 4&endash;6, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If it is 7&endash;9, lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I must search that tomb,</quote> you say, staring fixedly at the huge door that dominates the Sepulchre's blue-grey sculptured facade. Odel frowns and casts his eyes nervously at the surrounding mist. <quote>I cannot enter,</quote> he says. <quote>I am not of clan blood. If you choose to go through that door you must go alone.</quote></p>
- <p>You sense that nothing will induce Odel to break his clan law, but you are anxious not to lose a valuable guide. <quote>When I enter the Grand Sepulchre will you wait for me here?</quote>, you ask, hoping he will agree. Silently he considers your request. <quote>Yes,</quote> he says, without enthusiasm. <quote>But search swiftly. The creatures of chaos are close. I can feel it in my blood.</quote></p>
- <p>You exchange stern smiles then hurry away through the knee-deep mists, towards the great door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The area around the monolith is deserted, but it is not long before the ape-like creatures step from the shadows of the trees and surround you in a wide circle. One of their number utters a strange twittering sound, then narrows his eyes and tilts his head from side to side as if he expects you to answer his call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Scion-kai, or if you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your blade cleaves his black heart in two, the Chaos-master gives voice to an unearthly howl, loud enough to waken the dead. His great body stiffens and his skin writhes and shimmers, making it impossible to discern any detail. Then suddenly it fades until all that remains to record that he ever existed is the lingering stench of his spilt blood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144"><link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from the packleader and roll under a chariot to avoid its continued attack. But it is determined to kill you and, with a shrill howl, it launches itself blindly at your legs. You avoid the lunge and scramble to your feet, your weapon poised to strike as soon as your pursuer appears. Snarling, the green face bobs out close to the wheel. For an instant its red eyes glare insanely, before, with one swift blow, you cleave its scaly neck in two.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your reflexes save you from the deadly dart&emdash;it hisses past your head and buries itself harmlessly in the soft forest floor. Odel spins on his heel and points at the canopy of branches with an outstretched arm. There is a metallic twang, and the steel drawstring of his crossbow propels its bolt deep into the scaly belly of an Agtah sniper perched high above. It utters a piercing shriek and tumbles to the ground with a sickening thud.</p>
- <p>You compliment your guide on his bow skill and join him as he moves forward to search the dead body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your much improved Kai skill enables you to understand the language that these beings are speaking. They want to know why you are trespassing on their hunting ground and how you came to be here, alone and without any means of transportation. You sense that they speak not in their native tongue but in a language they assume to be yours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to tell them that you are from the world of Magnamund and that you arrived here after falling through a Shadow Gate, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you choose to ignore their questions and remain silent, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless and bleeding, the warrior evades your skilful attacks by leaping for the rope ladder and holding fast. From there he shouts a command and the giant black bird takes to the air, lifting him off the roof. A wave of panic engulfs you. In desperation you leap up and strike a blow at the velvet sack swinging from his belt. He tries to fend off your attack but his position is precarious. Your blow strikes home, slitting open the velvet and gashing deep into the back of his gloved hand. He drops his sword and one of the two Lorestones tumbles from the sack and falls into the graveyard below, coming to rest close to the door of the Sepulchre. Yet he manages to save the second Lorestone from falling and, with a parting curse, you watch as he is lifted above the trees and carried away into the cold, grey sky.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237"><link-text>Turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cards you have drawn from the pack are marked with varied and colourful symbols. The first shows a bed, the second a young Ookor child, and the third a sword. The aged fortune teller weaves her crooked fingers around the cards. She mutters incessantly to herself and T'uk T'ron is obliged to act as her translator.</p>
- <p><quote>She say you will dream of when you were young. In your dream much will be made clear to you. This dream is good. It will help you grow strong and defeat your enemies.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect96"><link-text>Turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of dialect and mannerisms convinces them that you are one of the minions who serve the Master of the City. Slowly they step aside, sniggering like spiteful children as they watch you enter the temple door. You glance back to see one draw a warty forefinger across his throat, and hear the other laugh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery enables you to understand the bizarre language these creatures use. The one who spoke introduced himself as L'yan-K'ril, an elder of the Ookor. He then asked if you came from somewhere called Meledor, and from the tone of his voice you get the distinct impression that he is hoping you will answer <quote>yes</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you wish to answer <quote>yes</quote>, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to answer <quote>no</quote>, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you choose to say nothing, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to avoid the gout of yellow flame that shoots from its mouth, but it catches your feet and legs and you suffer extensive burns: lose 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you survive this wounding, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that Serocca is imprisoned in a cage of psychic energy which surrounds her chamber and prevents her from passing through the opening. This energy is extremely powerful and has been synchronized to react to her brainwaves alone. To enter the chamber would cause you no injury, but if she ever attempted to pass through the invisible wall, the resulting release of force would be enough to destroy both her and the entire city of Thas.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Waves of raw psychic energy radiate from the golden sphere, hovering motionless above the tower. Your highly developed spirit skills enable you to tap this energy and use it to replenish lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance 0 = 10). The number you have picked indicates the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you are able to restore to your current total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The uneven floor is riddled with deep pot-holes which impede your progress. Unless you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, you must deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to injuries sustained to your legs. At length the narrow fissure widens and, as your eyes become accustomed to the gloom, you are able to detect that a small cavern lies ahead. Just at this moment a rumbling cacophony surges along the fissure and the floor shudders and heaves beneath your feet. Then a great blast of dust and debris knocks you off balance as it is sucked out of the cavern by the whirlwind now raging directly above. The turmoil soon subsides but, as you drag yourself to your feet, you notice that you are not alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a gesture of his hand Lorkon Ironheart dismisses the scouts and you are left alone in his company.</p>
- <p><quote>So you are the Aonian for whom Mistress Serocca would have me postpone the war against chaos,</quote> he says sardonically, reaching for a decanter of ruby red wine. He fills two crystal goblets and offers one to you. <quote>Let us toast the success of your treasure hunt,</quote> he says, raising his glass on high.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description><quote>Let us toast the success of your treasure hunt,</quote> says<br />Lorkon Ironheart, raising his glass on high</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="679" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="679" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>And to your triumph over chaos,</quote> you add diplomatically.</p>
- <p>He smiles as he sips the bitter vintage and you regard each other with thoughtful curiosity. He has a youthful face, with high cheek-bones, narrow jaw and a thin, chiselled, aristocratic nose. His silver hair is a mass of silken threads flowing from beneath the rim of his ornate conical helmet to fan across his wide shoulders and thick, vermilion cloak. But it is his eyes that fascinate you most, for they are filled with knowledge and ancient wisdom.</p>
- <p>You talk at length about events which have brought you to the Nahgoth Forest in search of Lorkon's help, and in return he tells you of the dangers you may face at Tolakos.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Below are shown four groups of symbols. One of these, when inscribed upon the blank square, will complete the sequence and open the lock that secures Baylon's Tomb. Study the symbols carefully and compare them with those shown in the illustration accompanying <a idref="sect166">entry 166</a>.</p>
- <p>When you think you have found the correct group of symbols, turn to the entry given below it:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="220" height="251" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="220" height="251" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you believe A completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you believe B completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you believe C completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you believe D completes the sequence, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly two hairy, clawed paws reach up, hook themselves into the backs of your legs and drag you through the hole in the bridge. You swing in the void, clinging to the beam with one hand while trying desperately to free a weapon with the other. Your attacker, a huge, misshapen beast banded in black and brown fur, lunges repeatedly with its head as it tries to sink its sharp fangs into your thigh.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If your total is now 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If it is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A strong hand on your shoulder shakes you roughly from your sleep. <quote>The Beholder requests your company,</quote> says the Yoacor leader stepping back and motioning you to rise. <quote>You must come with me.</quote></p>
- <p>Together with six attendant guards, the leader escorts you from the watchtower, across an open courtyard paved with polished steel, and into the entrance hall of the crystal citadel. There a superb spiral staircase forms the central core of this stronghold, carved from a solid mountainous chunk of a sky-blue mineral unfamiliar to you. The stairs soar upwards towards the turreted roof where the chamber of the Beholder is situated.</p>
- <p>With ease the Yoacor ascend and you struggle to keep pace. You count over 300 steps before the staircase opens on to a silent hallway where a massive door of solid ebony inlaid with gold fills an entire wall. A bell is rung and while you catch your breath and wait for the massive door to open you speculate on who the Beholder could be. You imagine him as a Yoacor warrior-king, tall and strong, with wisdom and intelligence beyond mortal reckoning. With this image in mind you feel optimistic that he will aid your quest. However, when the black door finally swings open your hopes are dashed&emdash;the sight of him shocks you to the core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you lies a vast sea of grey-brown dust that stretches to the cloudy horizon. It is a drear and haunting panorama: a land once rich and fertile murdered by the curse of chaos. It instils in you a dread uncertainty that deepens as you trudge each weary mile from boulder to crag, and from crag to dry scrub&emdash;the only landmarks in this desert of desolation. You fight your growing despair, drawing strength from your vow to complete your quest. For the fate that has befallen Guakor will befall Sommerlund if you fail to find the last Lorestone and return to Magnamund to defeat Darklord Gnaag.</p>
- <p>It is during your third stop for rest that you hear a noise in the silent wilderness. It comes from a group of tall boulders to your left. Immediately you rise to your feet and unsheathe a weapon as a huge but emaciated reptile, as grey as the dust, slinks slowly into view.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a chilling scream, like the baying of a crazed wolf pack, echoes from the trees on either side of the bridge, and lumbering hordes of twisted shapes stagger from the shadows. They appear to be neither animal nor human but a ghastly fusion of the two. The Ookor guards tremble with fear and whisper the word <quote>Agtah</quote> as the monstrosities hurl themselves at the chariots. A dog-headed creature with two mouths claws its way on to the platform and launches itself at your unprotected legs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Agtah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">31</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the speed of its attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the first two rounds of combat (unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery).</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A lever operates the portal and, when you pull it, the circular hatch creaks open and a shaft of grey light washes over your head and shoulders. Your senses burn with expectation. You grip the rim and start to pull yourself through the hole, but a dark shadow and a cold wind sweep over you, making you flinch and fall back on the stairs. There is a loud crack, like a sharp clap of thunder, then a terrible scream of agony echoes through the forest. Fear and anger grip your senses as you realize that you have just heard the dying scream of Odel, your guide. Enraged, you leap for the portal and pull yourself on to the roof, where the Lorestones and an unexpected enemy await you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout to T'uk T'ron that you sense danger ahead, but a rack of spears has worked loose from its mounting and in his struggle to tie it down, he does not hear your warning. You are now fast approaching the bridge and the driver shows no intention of slowing down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to grab the reins and steer the horses away from the bridge, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to pull the brake lever, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you decide to shake T'uk T'ron by the shoulder and repeat your warning, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you draw an arrow and take aim at one of the creature's eyes. But instinctively it senses danger and twists its head furiously from side to side to spoil your shot.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with bow, be sure to add the appropriate bonus as well as any other missile bonuses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If your total is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you move away from the sarcophagus you hear the faint sounds of battle coming from beyond the tomb door. You run back along the corridor and press your ear to the cold stone: the faint sounds become more distinct. The clash of swords and the angry cries of Meledorian voices excite your curiosity, prompting you to climb the stairs to the roof to find out exactly what is going on.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27"><link-text>Turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sickness and nausea begin to subside but they are replaced by a fearful numbness that drains the strength from your limbs. Odel's face and the dark canopy of branches swirl and grow dim as the deadly poison paralyses your heart. Painlessly you slip into the timeless oblivion of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill enables you to comprehend their curious language. They are demanding to know your name and your reason for wanting to enter the city of Thas, and they warn you that they will call out the city guard and arrest you if you do not give them the information they require. You tell them that you have come from the Beholder of Yanis and that you seek she who is called Serocca. Immediately upon hearing her name the two guards order that the gate be re-opened. The portal of grey stone swings back and they beckon you to enter. As you pass beneath the archway, a dozen of their kind gather round you, chirruping and twittering excitedly.</p>
- <p><quote>Come,</quote> says one of the guards, pointing to the tower. <quote>We will escort you to Serocca.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your shaft clips his neck and rips open a line of chainmail links before arcing over the parapet of the roof. Blood oozes thickly from his wound and the force of the arrow stuns him momentarily, but it does not prevent him from scooping the Lorestones into a small velvet sack, which hangs from his swordbelt. Quickly you shoulder your bow in favour of a hand weapon and rush forward, determined to prevent his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From out of the gloom emerges a collosal form: the monstrous, pear-shaped head of a giant sewer snake. It rears up from the narrow tunnel and fixes you with its burning yellow eyes, its forked tongue flickering to within inches of your chest. Its slit pupils dilate and you barely have time to draw a weapon before it strikes:</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Haagadar Sewer Snake rears up from the narrow<br />tunnel and fixes you with its burning yellow eyes</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="612" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="612" />
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Haagadar Sewer Snake</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you win the combat, you continue up the stairs towards the surface: <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you try to deflect the blast of energy with the silver rod you are holding, but your reactions are a fraction too slow and the fiery bolt of power hits you and rips open your chest. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your quest end here on the Zhamin Plateau of the Daziarn Plane.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Under cover of the thick, black smoke generated by the creature's breath, you stalk forward, weapon in hand, determined to strike before it can muster enough bile to fuel a second gout of flame. The beast does not expect such a bold move and you are able to creep within striking distance of its vulnerable eyes.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zhengha</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">35</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you move through the tangled undergrowth to arrive at the edge of the road at a spot opposite the Meledorians, whom you can hear talking in hushed tones in a language you find easy to understand. They are speculating on what has become of you and your chariot escort, now long overdue. You notice that each warrior carries a small crossbow attached by a metallic sleeve to his right forearm. The sight of these weapons, which can be fired in an instant, convinces you that it would be wise not to startle these scouts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and wish to call to them telepathically, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to shout who you are without revealing your position, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to emerge from the bushes with your hands above your head, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the vault, only to discover that the door is split wide open and the walls are crawling with a swarm of loathsome, rat-like abominations. They squeal and gnash their sharp teeth furiously as they latch on to your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you possess a Fireseed and wish to throw it, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you decide to run back to the Grand Sepulchre and attack the three creatures that block the entrance, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to draw a hand weapon and fight these rat-like horrors, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the open back of the chariot and land feet first on the bank. The ground is soft but there are many boulders embedded along the river's edge, and as you roll down the slope, you cannot avoid colliding with some of them.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <p>If your total is now 3 or less, lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. If it is 4&endash;6, lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If it is 7&endash;9, lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim at his heart and let fly your shaft, but he senses he is at risk and twists aside, hoping that your arrow will strike askew and be deflected by his highly polished mail.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it any missile bonuses you may have.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If it is 5&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Outside the wind howls like a horde of demons. It whips the sand into whirling cyclones that perform an erratic dance of destruction upon the plateau. You watch this awesome spectacle until the fatigue of your ordeal finally catches up with you (you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Unable to resist any longer, you close your eyes and drift off into a restless sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pound across the weather-worn planks towards the middle of the bridge only to encounter T'uk T'ron and the driver scurrying towards you. <quote>Go back!</quote> he cries. <quote>Go back &ellips; must save chariots or we all die here!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to help T'uk T'ron defend the chariots, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you decide to stay in the middle of the bridge and attempt to repair the hole, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to abandon the Ookor and escape across the bridge on foot, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The force of the attack leaves you breathless with fright. The shadowy riders sense your morbid fear and emit a terrible laugh, cruel and heartless, as they move to surround you. You sense an impending storm and the feeling is heightened by the roiling clouds of the Neverness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards scowl and wave their arms fitfully. Then the gate creaks open and a horde of ape-men, brandishing spears and swords with sharp crystal blades, rush forward and surround you. Instinctively you reach for a weapon, but the points of their spears dissuade you from unsheathing it. Reluctantly you raise your hands and allow them to march you into their city under heavy guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint into the forest, thankful that the canopy of twisted branches offers good protection from an air attack. Only when you are sure that it is
-safe do you stop to catch your breath and check your equipment. To your dismay you discover that the creature's attack ripped open your Backpack and several items have fallen out during your escape.</p>
- <p>Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> one Special Item of your choice, and those Backpack Items which you have noted first and third on your list.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">To continue, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With consummate accuracy you send an arrow whistling into the treetops. It ends its flight buried feather-deep in the scaly abdomen of an Agtah sniper. The beast gives a piercing shriek and tumbles to the ground, landing with a sickening thud near the base of Baylon's Bough.</p>
- <p>Odel praises your skill and rushes forward, half-crouched, to search the chaos-creature's body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to stay where you are and cover him with your bow, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you wish to follow him, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you heard no sound when the platinum door closed, you soon discover that it is firmly locked, and yet there is no evidence of keyhole, hinge or drawbolt. After careful examination you decide that it must be held secure by a spell or some other magical device.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have reached the rank of Scion-kai, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you do not possess this skill or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw back your golden blade and take aim at the Chaos-master's heart. But the closeness of your goodly blade screams a warning at this evil god and quickly he turns to face you. You strike a blow which wounds his side but misses its vital target. With a roar of pain the Chaos-master drops his club and clasps his side. Pain swiftly becomes rage and, with a vengeful scream, he reaches out to crush you to death in his monstrous hands.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-master (lightly wounded)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">47</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">68</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This being is Immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). If you possess the Lore-circle of the Spirit, add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reactions save your life: you twist aside to avoid the deadly bolt and it passes within inches of your chest, thudding into a tree behind. Instantly you drop to your knees and crawl rapidly through the undergrowth, lest they fire again at the place where you stood. You stop when you reach the bushes that border the road, for opposite you can see the scouts crouching nervously beside their mounts.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and wish to call to them telepathically, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to shout who you are without revealing your position, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to emerge from the bushes with your hands above your head, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A group of hairy, squat-limbed creatures step from the shadow of the trees. They are armed with crude spears, which they clasp in their ape-like hands as they approach nervously. They surround you in a wide circle and one of their number utters a loud, twittering sound. Then he narrows his eyes and tilts his head as if expecting you to answer his call.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Scion-kai, or if you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have neither of these skills, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your index finger you inscribe the symbols into the soft surface of the square, but, as soon as you remove your hand, the symbols fade. Suddenly a crackling surge of electrical power arcs from a slot in the portal's stone surround. It catches you full on the chest and flings you several feet through the air: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you survive this severe shock, <link-text>turn back to 25</link-text> and study the remaining symbols very carefully before you attempt to open the door again.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Serocca blinks away her tears and forces herself to concentrate on the matter in hand. Again the image fades from the table and a new one takes its place: a picture of forested hills and steep-sided valleys. <quote>This is where the Lorestones emerged from the Shadow Gate,</quote> she says, her voice now calm and controlled. <quote>I detected their presence immediately, for the power they radiate is extraordinary.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Where is this place?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>It is the Nahgoth Forest, close to the border with Meledor. I estimate that the Lorestones lie within a few hundred yards of Tolakos, the ancient burial ground of the Meledorians,</quote> she replies, but with caution in her voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Is this not good news?</quote> you ask, relieved to know at last where the objects of your quest are situated.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, it is, but for the struggle now taking place in the region. The Meledorians are locked in battle against the forces of the Chaos-master, who is determined to claim all of the Nahgoth for himself. Tolakos is but a few leagues from where the fighting is fiercest.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Then I must retrieve the Lorestones quickly,</quote> you say, rising from your seat in your eagerness to press on with your quest.</p>
- <p><quote>Indeed you must, but it would benefit you nought if you were to reclaim them and then be unable to return to your home world for the lack of knowing where to go. Be patient a little longer, Lone Wolf, and I shall show you where, in all this vast region of the Daziarn, you can find the one Shadow Gate that leads to Magnamund.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect262"><link-text>Turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab the jewelled hilt and are about to hurl it away when you notice that its curvy blade is engraved with a spectacular fiery dragon. At once you recognize the design and your hopes of retrieving the last Lorestone are suddenly revived. It is identical to the symbol you first saw in the Table of Visions: the mark that emblazoned the stone gate of Haagadar.</p>
- <p>You focus your Kai skills on the blade and they confirm your suspicions. The scarlet warrior came from Haagadar, and it is to that distant city that his black-winged mount is now returning with the last Lorestone of the Kai.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You project a psychic message which proves successful: the leader acknowledges your contact and replies using a mind language you can both understand. You tell him of your fall through the Shadow Gate, your flight from the storm and your encounter with the fierce Khozinda, and in return you learn that he and his brothers are Yoacor hunters from the city of Yanis.</p>
- <p><thought>Come, we will take you to our realm,</thought> he says, the words forming clearly in your mind. <thought>You must tell of this journey to the Beholder. He will divine its worth.</thought></p>
- <p>He beckons you to approach his dragonmount and you step forward. The thought of being left marooned in this wilderness is all you need to persuade you to obey his command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The other chariots draw to a halt behind and T'uk T'ron's chariot is hauled out of the mud. Within minutes you are back on the road, close to the approach ramp to the bridge. Looking ahead, you notice that the centre of the bridge is damaged. Some of the planks have been torn up and strewn across the surface at random, crudely disguising a gaping hole. Quickly you point out the damage to T'uk T'ron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, and have reached the rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Magnakai training, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect349-1-foot" idref="sect349-1">
- <p>These bonuses are not cumulative&emdash;if you have both Disciplines, you may only add 4 to the number you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fearsome Zhengha swoops low over your position, raising a cloud of dust that fills your nose and eyes with grit. You cough and blink the dust away and, as the cloud begins to settle, you see that you have attracted the beast's attention. It has landed nearby and is poised to exhale its fiery breath.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus or Huntmastery, <a id="sect349-1" idref="sect349-1-foot" class="footnote">add 4 to the number you have picked.</a></p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Vonotar lies dead on the black marble floor, his torn body oozing a blood that is thin and vile, like poisonous venom. You roll his corpse aside and take up the Lorestone in your trembling hands. Instantly an overwhelming wave of power is transfused into your being and you feel lifted, in mind and body, to a level of consciousness that transcends your mortal frame. You surrender to its power and under its guidance you are drawn inexorably towards the arch of the Shadow Gate. Willingly you step into the darkness and begin your triumphant return to the world where you were born.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Your quest has succeeded, for the essence of the remaining two Lorestones is now one with your body and spirit. But the final struggle has yet to be won, for the power of your mortal enemies&emdash;the Darklords of Helgedad&emdash;has waxed and grown strong during your time in the Daziarn. If you possess the courage of a true Kai Master, the ultimate battle awaits you in the final episode of the Magnakai quest, entitled:</p>
- <p><cite><a href="&link.12tmod;">The Masters of Darkness</a></cite></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Northern Magnamund</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="240" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="aclore.gif" width="385" height="199" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata List</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from <quote><foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed both occurrences of <quote>Surplus Special Items may be left in safe-keeping at your Kai monastery.</quote> since safekeeping is not available at the beginning of this adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Replaced <quote>on the page after the Random Number Table.</quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a>) Capitalized the title <quote>Lore-circle Bonuses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a>) Removed the quotation marks from <quote>Improved Disciplines</quote> in the last paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Magnakai Wisdom</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Skill</quote> with <quote>Kai skill</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect4">4</a>) Replaced <quote>handrail</quote> with <quote>hand-rail</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Replaced <quote>chaos horde</quote> with <quote>chaos-horde</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>) Replaced <quote>weight is</quote> with <quote>weight are</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>handweapon</quote> with <quote>hand weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Changed the presentation of the candidate sequence completions to fit our technologies. This includes changing the label of each sequence completion from the corresponding section to a letter and adding choices below the illustration which read, for example, <quote>If you believe A completes the sequence, <a idref="sect216">turn to 216</a>.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect27">27</a>) Replaced <quote>army are</quote> with <quote>army is</quote> and <quote>jubliant</quote> with <quote>jubilant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced <quote>handrail</quote> with <quote>hand-rail</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>dragon-mount</quote> with <quote>dragonmount</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect65">65</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Replaced <quote>lurking ready</quote> with <quote>lurking, ready</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>prevent</quote> with <quote>prevents</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Replaced <quote>re-united</quote> with <quote>reunited</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>the skill</quote> with <quote>this skill</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Replaced <quote>steps confident</quote> with <quote>steps, confident</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Replaced <quote>village the</quote> with <quote>village, the</quote> and <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>co-ordinates</quote> with <quote>coordinates</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Added <quote>or do not wish to use them</quote> to the choice to go deeper into the fissure without the aid of the items mentioned.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>beam it</quote> with <quote>beam, it</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Made the choice that leads to <a idref="sect256">Section 256</a> the first in the list.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Since <a idref="sect332">Section 332</a> was originally unreachable, we changed the choice involving leaping from the chariot to point there instead of <a idref="sect299">Section 299</a>. Since <a idref="sect299">Section 299</a> involves a greater loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>, we reasoned that it should only be accessible after the chariot is out of control.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>much-needed</quote> with <quote>much needed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>monolith so</quote> with <quote>monolith, so</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai</quote> with <quote>Magnakai</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>) Replaced <quote>Zhenga</quote> with <quote>Zhengha</quote> and <quote><a idref="sect157">turn 157</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect157">turn to 157</a></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Replaced <quote>symetrically</quote> with <quote>symmetrically</quote> and <quote>Pathmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect215">215</a>) Replaced <quote>Pathmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Replaced <quote>birdsong</quote> with <quote>bird song</quote>, <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233">233</a>) Replaced <quote>see illustration XIV</quote> with <quote>see the accompanying illustration</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect237">237</a>) Replaced <quote>parapet you</quote> with <quote>parapet, you</quote> and <quote>Lorestone but</quote> with <quote>Lorestone, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>cliff face</quote> with <quote>cliff-face</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>half-way</quote> with <quote>halfway</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>resist, the</quote> with <quote>resist; the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>Ryl'aan noorma</quote> with <quote>Ryl'aan noorna</quote> (cf. <a idref="sect64">Section 64</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>) Since <a idref="sect332">Section 332</a> was originally unreachable, we changed the choice involving leaping from the chariot to point there instead of <a idref="sect299">Section 299</a>. Since <a idref="sect299">Section 299</a> involves a greater loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>, we reasoned that it should only be accessible after the chariot is out of control.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) Capitalised the list of items.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>much-needed</quote> with <quote>much needed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect279">279</a>) Replaced <quote>flag-stoned</quote> with <quote>flagstoned</quote> and <quote>hands and</quote> with <quote>hands, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Replaced <quote>borehole</quote> with <quote>bore-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>much-improved</quote> with <quote>much improved</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect314">314</a>) Replaced <quote>cheekbones</quote> with <quote>cheek-bones</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Changed the presentation of the candidate sequence completions to fit our technologies. This includes changing the label of each sequence completion from the corresponding section to a letter and adding choices below the illustration which read, for example, <quote>If you believe A completes the sequence, <a idref="sect14">turn to 14</a>.</quote> Also replaced <quote>directly below</quote> with <quote>below</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Replaced <quote>Discipline of Hunting</quote> with <quote>Discipline of Huntmastery</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Added <quote>as well as any other missile bonuses</quote> to the end of the second paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>chain-mail</quote> with <quote>chainmail</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the telepathic speech.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai rank</quote> with <quote>rank</quote> and <quote>Kai training</quote> with <quote>Magnakai training</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) You have no opportunity to use safekeeping at the Monastery or Dessi at the beginning of this adventure. It is therefore inappropriate for you to store surplus items in safekeeping or likewise to retrieve any. Items that may already be stored there will be safe, but you may not add any more at the beginning of this adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) You have no opportunity to use safekeeping at the Monastery or Dessi at the beginning of this adventure. It is therefore inappropriate for you to store surplus items in safekeeping or likewise to retrieve any. Items that may already be stored there will be safe, but you may not add any more at the beginning of this adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Magnakai Wisdom</a>) Due to several unavoidable, difficult combats in this book, it is practically impossible for a new or average character to complete this adventure successfully. Even a character with optimal choices of equipment and Disciplines and the highest possible scores for <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> will have a difficult time with this adventure.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) You do not need to erase a Meal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> when sharing with Arke.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, add 2 to any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you sustain during this combat, owing to the poisonous lash of their tentacles. (cf. <a idref="sect298">298</a>)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) If you have both Disciplines, add only 4 to your number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect95">95</a>) If you have both Disciplines, add only 4 to your number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Delete your Backpack as well as its contents. You may not acquire any Backpack Items until your Backpack has been replaced.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Depending on your interpretation of the rules, you may not be able to benefit from the use of a Shield during this combat.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) If you already possess the maximum number of Special Items, you must discard one in favour of the Obsidian Seal.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to reflect the effects of the draught you have just drunk.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) The <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for using a Shield does not apply here, nor do those for using Alether or weapon-like Special Items such as the Sommerswerd. Depending on your interpretation of the rules, the bonus granted by the Silver Helm may still be applicable, as it appears to be magical in nature. Also, any bonuses to <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> due to armour should not be applied during this combat.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect298">298</a>) You may not evade combat if you have already visited Baylon's Tomb. If so, you must stay and fight.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) These bonuses are not cumulative&emdash;if you have both Disciplines, you may only add 4 to the number you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect27">Section 27</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect40">Section 40</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect50">Section 50</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect58">Section 58</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect84">Section 84</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect93">Section 93</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect120">Section 120</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect141">Section 141</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect158">Section 158</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect177">Section 177</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect187">Section 187</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect224">Section 224</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect233">Section 233</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect246">Section 246</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect268">Section 268</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect279">Section 279</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect294">Section 294</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect314">Section 314</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect327">Section 327</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Northern Magnamund</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect4">Section 4</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect25">Section 25</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect41">Section 41</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect51">Section 51</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect131">Section 131</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect166">Section 166</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect188">Section 188</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect202">Section 202</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect285">Section 285</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect315">Section 315</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect345">Section 345</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
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- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
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- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
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- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
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- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
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- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
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- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
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- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
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- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
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- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
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- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
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- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
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- </section>
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- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
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- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
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-Revision 1.3 2005/03/28 21:35:23 jonathan.blake
-Fixed the "Section 200 chestnut" 7eacute;
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/08 01:29:12 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.10 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.9 2003/01/04 17:15:05 jblake
-Published
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-Revision 1.8 2002/12/06 21:19:13 jblake
-XML cleanup.
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-Revision 1.7 2002/11/12 18:49:50 jblake
-Fix of interbook links.
-
-Revision 1.6 2002/11/10 07:53:10 jblake
-Updated publication date.
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/11/04 21:00:00 jdougan
-Inserted "Archmaster" into introductory text of Improved Disciplines
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-Revision 1.4 2002/10/30 06:45:29 jblake
-Fixed some non-empty "br" nodes and other validity issues.
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-Revision 1.3 2002/10/27 03:59:18 jblake
-Corrected formatting.
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-Revision 1.2 2002/10/26 01:12:32 twolmer
-Inserted the large illustrations and cleaned up markup.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:11:37 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>The Masters of Darkness</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br/>Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>1</month><day>3</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>The moment you draw the dagger from your belt, a blue flame courses the length of its twisted blade and the squealing flood of Crypt Spawn soar upward towards the roof in order to avoid you. They and their creator, Darklord Kraagenskûl, recognize the power you wield and both are in awe and terror of it. Freed from the threat of his loathsome summonations, you now advance upon Kraagenskûl with the dagger before you. He screams in anger and lunges at your head, his sword ablaze with tongues of black fire. You catch the blow on the tip of the dagger and both blades spark furiously as their terrible powers collide.&ellips;</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1988 Joe Dever.<br/>Illustrations copyright © 1988 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1988 Joe Dever.<br/>Illustrations copyright © 1988 Brian Williams.<br/>Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta/>
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
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- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Sophie and Ben</p>
- <p class="dedication">With special thanks to<br/>Adrian Orr&emdash;creator of the <quote>Mind Reaper</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate"/>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta>
- <title>Credits</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br/>Jeff Dougan<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>Alternate Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez (action charts)<br />Jonathan Blake (extramatter charts and tables)</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Simon Osborne (front matter, Sections 36&endash;70, 106&endash;210, 246&endash;350)<br/>Matthew Reynolds (Sections 1&endash;35, 71&endash;105, 211&endash;245, 281&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan<br/>Ingo Klöcker<br/>Simon Osborne<br/>Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br/>Ingo Klöcker</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Richard Chalk<br />Peter Smyth</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg"/>
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies&emdash;the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>Many centuries have passed since Sun Eagle, the first of your kind, established the Order of the Kai. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he completed a perilous quest to find seven crystals of power known as the Lorestones of Nyxator, and upon their discovery he unlocked a wisdom and strength that lay within both the Lorestones and himself. He recorded the nature of his discoveries and his experiences in a great tome entitled The Book of the Magnakai. You found this lost Kai treasure and gave a solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, thereby ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. To fulfil your pledge, you embarked on the same quest that was undertaken by Sun Eagle over one thousand years ago: the search for the seven crystals of power that hold the power and wisdom of your ancestors.</p>
- <p>Your quest was to take you far from your northern homeland. Following in the footsteps of the first Kai Grand Master you journeyed to Dessi and sought the help of the Elder Magi, the magicians who aided Sun Eagle on his quest long ago. There you learned that for centuries the Elder Magi had awaited your coming. An ancient Dessi legend told of the birth and rise to greatness of two <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, which means <quote>Sons of the Sun</quote>. One was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, which means <quote>eagle</quote>, and the other was named <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, which means <quote>wolf</quote>. A prophecy foretold that the <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Koura-tas-Kai</foreign> would each come from out of the north to seek the counsel of the Elder Magi in order that they might fulfil a great quest. Although separated by several centuries, they would share one spirit, one purpose and one destiny&emdash;to triumph over the champions of darkness in an age of great peril. The Elder Magi knew that you were <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>, the wolf of Dessi legend, and in keeping with their ancient vows they promised to help you complete the Magnakai quest.</p>
- <p>In Elzian, the capital of Dessi, you were tutored an the histories of Magnamund and received lessons in lore that you would have learned from the Kai masters if only they, like you, had survived the murderous Darklord attack on the Kai monastery. You were eager to learn all that the Elder Magi could teach you in preparation for your quest, but war was to cut short your tuition. In the Darklands capital of Helgedad a struggle for power had been won by a Darklord called Gnaag. The other Darklords, fourteen an number, united behind their new leader and upon his command began to muster huge armies in preparation for the conquest of Magnamund. Swiftly their Giak legions grew in number, enabling Gnaag to launch a sweeping invasion that was to catch the freelands unprepared. His legions advanced unchecked until, at the momentous Battle of Tahou, you turned the tide of the war decisively against Gnaag by defeating his powerful ally, Zakhan Kimah, in mortal combat.</p>
- <p>Victory at Tahou paved the way for the liberation of all the lands that Gnaag had taken by force. But the sweet taste of this victory was to turn sour when you discovered that he had captured the last three remaining Lorestones of Nyxator, and had vowed to avenge his defeat by destroying them and killing you. Alarmed by this news, the High Council of the Elder Magi helped you to formulate a plan of action. They had received news from allies in the west that the Lorestones were being held in the city-fortress of Torgar, where Gnaag's sorcerers&emdash;the Nadziranim&emdash;were searching for a means of destroying them. Fearing that they might achieve their goal, the Elder Magi made preparations for
-your secret passage to Torgar and, after a long and perilous journey, you arrived to find it besieged by the allied armies of Talestria and Palmyrion. During the many months of the Darklord invasion, hundreds of Talestrians were enslaved and sent to labour in the dungeons and sulphur mines deep within the bowels of Torgar. Their plight had seemed hopeless until the allied armies, under the command of Lord Adamas of Garthen, finally arrived to liberate them. Due in part your bravery and skill during the assault, Lord Adamas's troops were able to breach the great Torgar gate and storm its citadel. During this fierce battle you gained entry to the chamber at the heart of the citadel where the Nadziranim were attempting to destroy the Lorestones. Above a circular black pit the three radiant gems hung suspended in a fireball of negative energy, the focal point of several beams of power arising from crystals set around the edge of the pit. By means of a gantry you were able to climb above these energy beams and retrieve one of the three Lorestones. But, as you reached out for the remaining two, the terrible voice of Darklord Gnaag filled the chamber. <quote>Vengeance is mine!</quote> he rasped, and in the next instant a bolt of blue lightning leapt from a crystal that he held in his fly-like hand. It sheared through the rusty iron gantry, creating a shock wave that sent the Lorestones tumbling Into the black pit. A second bolt ripped the gantry in two, and, with the ghastly laugh of Darklord Gnaag ringing in your ears, you fell headlong into a portal of total darkness&emdash;a Shadow Gate&emdash;which led to the twilight world of the Daziarn Plane.</p>
- <p>When first you looked upon the desolate wastelands of the Daziarn, you recalled what little you had heard tell of this alien world. The magicians of Sommerlund believe it to be an astral corridor, connecting and binding the planet Magnamund to other planes of existence. By passing through a Shadow Gate&emdash;one of which is situated below their Guildhall in the city of Toran&emdash;a person could gain entry to the Daziarn. However, all those who had ever passed through the Shadow Gate of Toran had never been seen again, prompting the magicians to believe that the journey could only be made in one direction. It was said that from the Daziarn there was no escape.</p>
- <p>Your vow to restore the Kai, and your stubborn will to survive against all odds, made you even more determined to recover the last two Lorestones and find a way of returning to your home world. In the course of your search you discovered that your fight against the forces of darkness was the focus of a greater conflict raging throughout all the planes of existence, and that the time had come when the actions of one individual would shape the future of every living thing. It came as a great revelation to discover that you were that individual.</p>
- <p>Part of your destiny was fulfilled when you fought and defeated the Chaos-master, the leader of the evil force that threatened to conquer the Daziarn. You recovered one of the Lorestones and, with the help of a god-like creature called Serocca, you were able to find the location of a Shadow Gate that would return you to your own world. Here your quest culminated in a battle with your old enemy, Vonotar the Traitor, who had found the last Lorestone and who controlled the city wherein lay the Shadow Gate. He had intended to use the power of the Lorestone to enable him to return to Magnamund, but your bravery and determination put paid to his plans. In a desperate fight, on the very threshold of the Shadow Gate itself, you slew him and retrieved the last Lorestone, thereby completing the Magnakai Quest. Instantly an overwhelming wave of power was transfused into your being, lifting you to a level of consciousness that transcended your mortal frame. You surrendered to this power and, under its guidance, you were drawn inexorably towards the Shadow Gate. Willingly you stepped into the icy darkness and began your triumphant return to the world where you were born.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf"/>
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 14.) When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 12. You may also carry over any Weapons and Special Items you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons and eight Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>You many choose one bonus <a idref="discplnz">Magnakai Discipline</a> to add to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (Books 6&endash;12).</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular Lore-circle, you can gain an increase in your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a></quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta>
- <title>Weaponmastery</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of weapon. When you enter combat with a weapon you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the weapons in the list below.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310"/>
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: +3 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen weapons on the weapons list. You cannot carry more than two weapons.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta>
- <title>Animal Control</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="curing">
- <meta>
- <title>Curing</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: +1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta>
- <title>Invisibility</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta>
- <title>Huntmastery</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta>
- <title>Pathsmanship</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta>
- <title>Psi-surge</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat weapons and adds 4 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points but −2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> points</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta>
- <title>Psi-screen</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta>
- <title>Nexus</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta>
- <title>Divination</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you leave Toran and begin your fateful mission, Banedon gives you a <a idref="map">map</a> of the Darklands and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Banedon also makes available a choice of equipment to help you survive in the hostile enemy heartland. For the voyage into the cold waters of the Kaltesee, you are given special fur-lined clothing, sturdy boots, and a hooded cape made from waterproof Kalkoth hide. You may also take six items from the following list, to add to any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two Weapons and eight Backpack Items.</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows. Tick them off as they are used.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Items) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Lantern (Backpack Items)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="lantern.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="lantern.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Mace (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="mace.gif" width="386" height="137"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="mace.pdf" width="386" height="137"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>4 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- </ul>
- <p>List the six items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Carry Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Lantern&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Mace&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Axe&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta>
- <title>How Much Can You Carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two weapons at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt>Bow and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a bow and arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, like a sword or mace.</p>
- <p>In order to use a bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a bow, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the bow. If you enter combat armed only with a bow, you must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your Backpack at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess Special Items.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left in safekeeping at your
-Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt"/>
- <link class="next" idref="levels"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −3. (19 − 22 = −3). −3 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as −3. If the number taken from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="lorecrcl"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="lorecrcl">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels"/>
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote>Lore-circles</quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a Lore-circle, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>), and their physical and mental stamina (<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four Lore-circles of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a Lore-circle, you may add to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circle Bonuses</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +2 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <typ class="attribute">CS</typ> +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a Lore-circle are additions to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="lorecrcl"/>
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will steadily improve. If you have reached the rank of Primate (four skills), Tutelary (five skills), Principalin (six skills), Mentora (seven skills), Scion-kai (eight skills) or Archmaster (nine skills), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="primate">
- <meta>
- <title>Primate</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tutelary">
- <meta>
- <title>Tutelary</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a weapon, Tutelaries lose only 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, instead of the usual 4 points.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill when hiding from an enemy by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defences against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities. However, this improved Discipline can be negated if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="prncpln">
- <meta>
- <title>Principalin</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this skill are able to call on a woodland animal (if nearby) to aid them, either in combat, or to act as a messenger or guide. The number of animals that can be summoned increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Principalins are able to mask any sounds made by their movements while using this skill.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this Magnakai Discipline are able to intensify their eyesight at will, giving them telescopic vision.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Principalins using this skill in combat are able to confuse an enemy by planting seeds of doubt in its mind. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Principalins with this ability can extinguish fires by force of will alone. The size of the fire, and the number that can be extinguished using Nexus increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mentora">
- <meta>
- <title>Mentora</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras skilled in Weaponmastery are more accurate when using all missile weapons, whether fired (e.g. a bow) or thrown (e.g. a dagger). When using a bow or thrown weapon and instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, add 2 to the number picked if you are a Mentora with the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras with this skill are able to neutralize the effects of any poisons, venoms or toxins with which they come into contact.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to cross any kind of terrain on foot without leaving any tracks, even if the ground is covered in snow.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras with this ability can protect themselves from evil spirits and other non-corporeal beings that attack with psychic energy. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Mentoras who possess this skill are able to detect psychic residues lingering in a place where a dramatic event, such as a battle, a murder, a ritual sacrifice or a ritual ceremony, has taken place. By meditating at the scene of the incident, a Kai Mentora is able to visualize the event, even though it may have occurred in the distant past.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="scion">
- <meta>
- <title>Scion-kai</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>When entering combat with a weapon they have mastered, Scion-kai may add 4 points (instead of the usual 3 points) to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Also, when in combat without a weapon they lose only 1 point from their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Scion-kai are able to alter their physical appearance at will in order to deceive an enemy. The duration and effectiveness of this deception increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Scion-kai with this ability are able to converse with any sentient creature. They are also able to make themselves invisible when subjected to any psychic or magical spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>When engaging in psychic combat Scion-kai are able to absorb and control some of the energies directed at them. By deflecting or inducing the hostile energy they can either reduce the damage they sustain, or increase the power of their own psychic attacks.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Scion-kai are able to leave their body in a state of suspended animation and, in spirit form, explore their immediate surroundings unhindered by physical limitations. This ability is called <quote>spirit walking</quote>. The length of time a Kai Master can spirit walk increases as he rises in rank. When the spirit is separated from the body in this fashion, the body remains inanimate and vulnerable to attack. If a Kai Master's body is killed whilst he is spirit walking, his spiritual self will also cease to exist, and vice versa.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="archmstr">
- <meta>
- <title>Archmaster</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Archmasters with this skill are able to command most animals to do their bidding, although effectiveness is diminished when attempting to control a hostile creature.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Archmasters are able to use their healing power to repair serious wounds sustained in battle. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 6 points or less, they can use their skill to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 100 days.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Archmasters who possess this ability benefit from greatly increased senses of hearing, smell, and night vision. These senses become even more acute upon attaining the rank of Kai Grand Master.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Archmasters may add 6 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> instead of the usual 4 points. For every round in which Psi-surge is used, Archmasters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 3 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Archmasters cannot use Psi-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 4 points or below.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Archmasters with the skill of Nexus are able to withstand extremes of heat and cold, and possess limited immunity to harmful elements, such as flames, toxic gases, and corrosive liquids. The duration of this immunity increases greatly upon attaining Kai Grand Mastership.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc"/>
- <link class="next" idref="sect1"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission to destroy Darklord Gnaag will be fraught with awesome dangers. Be secretive and be on your guard at all times, for the creatures of the Darklands will stop at nothing to destroy you should your return to Magnamund become known to them.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will find during your mission will be of use to you, and some may be red herrings of no real value at all, so be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>If this is your first Magnakai adventure be sure to choose your three Magnakai Disciplines with care, for a wise choice enables any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points scores. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Magnakai adventure.</p>
- <p>At last the chance to avenge the massacre of the Kai is within your grasp. The restoration of your warrior brotherhood and the future of Magnamund depend on your success. May the spirit of your ancestors and the wisdom of the great god Kai guide you to victory and the fulfilment of your destiny.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta>
- <title>Numbered Sections</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta>
- <title>1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Shadow Gate you are submerged in total darkness and fall into a lightless void. Relentlessly you are buffeted and numbed by an intense coldness that drains the strength from your body and fills your mind with strange, dream-like images. It is as if you are being sucked into the heart of a swirling black abyss, and, as your senses fade, you pray that you have enough strength to survive your return to Magnamund.</p>
- <p>Barely a flicker of consciousness remains when the sensation of warmth returns to your frozen limbs. It revives you and slowly you become aware of a fluorescent mist and a pinpoint of light in the far distance. The sensation of falling is replaced by a smooth forward movement, as if you are gliding to a halt at the end of a steep slide. Rapidly the tiny light grows larger until suddenly you emerge from the darkness and find yourself standing in a place that you recognize immediately.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (if you pick a 0 it counts as 10). The number you have picked represents the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost during your passage through the Shadow Gate. Deduct this number of points from your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta>
- <title>2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and brace yourself to avoid the creature's leap. It springs forward and you roll aside, striking upwards as it blocks out the light. It shrieks as your blow tears deep into its shoulder, then it hits the ground, which shudders beneath the vast stone weight. You jump to your feet and prepare to strike another blow as the creature, squealing pitifully from the pain of its wound, draws itself up and leaps again.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Egorgh</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is particularly susceptible to psychic attack; double all bonuses you would normally be entitled to if using Mindblast or Psi-surge during the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta>
- <title>3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe a weapon and attempt to parry Gnaag's sword, but the supernatural blade shears straight through it and buries itself deep in your chest. An icy chill engulfs your body and you feel your chest constrict as Gnaag withdraws his hellblade. Darkness engulfs your vision and your ears are filled with a ghastly sound&emdash;the mocking laughter of Darklord Gnaag. He raises his infernal sword, Nadazgada, and prepares to deliver the blow that will seal your doom and destroy the hopes of those who oppose the empire of the Darklands.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta>
- <title>4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tingle: someone is about to attack you from behind. Without turning to see who is approaching, you twist aside, and your would-be attacker crashes chest-first against the rail. He is a Drakkarim marine armed with a stiletto dagger, whose needle-thin blade glows wetly crimson in the flickering light of the fire. Maddened by the pain of the fearful burns he has sustained on his face and hands, he screams a curse and leaps at you wildly, determined to drive his dagger into your chest.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Marine</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the frenzy of his attack, he is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">You can evade combat after two rounds by leaping into the sea: <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta>
- <title>5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect5-1-foot" idref="sect5-1">
- <p>Be aware that these choices originally read <quote>three rounds or less&ellips;</quote> and <quote>longer than four rounds&ellips;</quote>. We've arbitrarily changed the first choice to read <quote>four rounds or less&ellips;</quote>, erring in the reader's favour.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your adversary is little more than a few feet away when you release your bowstring to send an arrow streaking towards his chest. It hits with terrific force but, to your utter amazement, it fails to penetrate his flesh; the shaft shatters into a dozen harmless shards. With a scream of gleeful vengeance, the Drakkar officer swings his scimitar down to cleave your neck in two. Instinct alone saves you from its razor-sharp edge. Immediately, he strikes again, swinging his blade back in a vicious arc that is aimed at your throat. You block the blow but it costs you your bow, chopped almost in half as it stops the blade barely inches from your chin (remember to delete this weapon from your Weapons list). Hurriedly you fumble for a hand weapon as he steadies himself to strike again.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Marine Officer</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>You are unable to draw a weapon until the beginning of the second round of the combat, and must fight the first round unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you win, and the fight lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>. <a id="sect5-1" idref="sect5-1-foot" class="footnote"/>
- </choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win, and the fight lasts longer than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta>
- <title>6</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you sunder the last of the Crypt Spawn, Kraagenskûl reaches out to touch the surface of a bowl that rests on a plinth beside his throne. It is filled with a bright, silvery liquid and at once you sense its purpose. It is a communicator, a device that enables him to speak with his leader, Darklord Gnaag. The Sommerswerd had betrayed your identity and Kraagenskûl is about to warn his master that you have returned from the Daziarn and are here in Argazad. As his bony fingers dip to within inches of the shimmering surface, your only hope of stopping him is to hurl the Sommerswerd at his back.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="200" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris and the Lore-circle of Fire, add another 1 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta>
- <title>7</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from your adversary and retreat towards the middle of the ship. There, a group of Kirlundins have drawn up in a circle and are holding their ground behind a wall of shields. You join them and take command as a second wave of Drakkarim clamber over the side and come howling across the deck. With a noise like thunder they fall upon the group, their swords and axes drawing sparks as they rain down upon the shield-wall with numbing force. The shock of their impact drives the Kirlundins back, opening gaps in their defence through which the strongest Drakkarim hurl themselves recklessly. One breaks through close to where you stand and stabs at your neck with his blunted sword.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A Drakkar Marine stabs at<br />your neck with his sword</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="662"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="662"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Marine</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to his state of battle-frenzy, this foe is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta>
- <title>8</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ok zee okak!</quote></foreign> whispers a Giak scout, a sneer spreading slowly across his ugly grey face. He has scrambled on to a boulder and, using his infra-vision (the ability to see warm objects radiating in the dark), he has caught sight of you crawling towards the cliffs. Your sixth sense informs you that you have been spotted. To continue to crawl is futile, so you scramble to your feet aid sprint towards a V-shaped cleft that marks the start of a steep trail. You have taken less than a dozen strides when three squat shapes loom out of the shadows ahead: they are Giaks, armed and ready for combat.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Giaks</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery or Divination, deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the first two rounds of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you win, and the fight lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta>
- <title>9</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive aside, but you are hit by the whirring tip of the sword, which slices through your cape and lays open your shoulder: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the sharp pain, you grab the rear of the cannon and revolve it on its mounting until it points directly at the advancing Drakkarim marines. Their faces freeze with terror when they find themselves staring into the muzzle of their own formidable weapon. <quote>Death to the Darklords!</quote> you cry, and pull the firing lever.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta>
- <title>10</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The day is but an hour old when suddenly it begins to get darker. A ceiling of black cloud spreads across the sky, fed by billowing plumes of noxious gases that pour from the cracks and craters of the southern wastes. Violent electrical storms rage in these plumes and a thunderous rumbling, like the growling of an angry giant disturbed from sleep, echoes in the bowels of the lifeless earth.</p>
- <p>A redness in the clouds grows stronger as the Zlanbeast flies westwards. It fills the horizon, setting your pulse racing as you sense that Nengud-kor-Adez, the chasm of fire that surrounds Helgedad, is the source of the scarlet glow. You correct your course, steering the Zlanbeast away to the north, and within minutes you catch your first glimpse of Aarnak.</p>
- <p>It is a grim spectacle, a mass of huge steel buildings grouped haphazardly around the mouth of a frigid estuary, surrounded in turn by a defensive ring of spike-topped earthworks. Everything appears to be eaten by rust, aggravated by clouds of corrosive steam that arise from rivulets of black water criss-crossing the ground. It strikes you as an uninhabitable place, yet its murky thoroughfares are teeming with thousands of grey-skinned creatures all pulling or pushing great iron carts filled with ore. As the Zlanbeast speeds towards the city, you search for somewhere suitable to land.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, and have reached the Kai rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta>
- <title>11</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill, you will the Zlanbeast to cease its incessant caw. Immediately it obeys your psychic command and shuffles to the end of its perch, its head bowed and its eyes half closed. The Death Knight starts to turn away from the parapet, but his movements are slow and relaxed, and he is totally unprepared to receive your attack. Like a striking viper you lash out at his chest with deadly effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139"><link-text>Turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta>
- <title>12</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great sea beast roars, and a blast of putrid breath blows you away from the longboat, rolling you over and over like a leaf in a storm. Pain lances through your shoulder as you glance off the main mast and crash against the ship's starboard rail: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your bow is still gripped firmly in your hand, and, as you struggle to your feet, you draw a fresh arrow and take aim once more at the monster's head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to fire at the creature's eye, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you wish to fire into the creature's mouth, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you decide to fire at the creature's ear, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta>
- <title>13</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately, you draw on your inner strength to fight the poison that is coursing through your veins. Your Kai skill of Curing blocks the deadly effects of this viral poison, and quickly eradicates it from your system, but at a loss of 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the pain, you wrench the evil shaft from your shoulder and cast it aside as you run for the safety of the shadows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta>
- <title>14</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tide bears you swiftly towards a shingle beach, which is littered with huge, sea-smoothed boulders. The hissing surf and the screech of the loathsome sea-scavengers echo all along this barren coastline. It is an unwelcoming sound&emdash;cold and hostile&emdash;a fitting reflection of the land itself.</p>
- <p>Ten yards from the stony beach you slip into the thigh-deep foam and wade ashore. Night has fallen swiftly, but there is a full moon by which to see. It pierces the darkness and bathes the landscape in its ghostly ashen light. Crouching low, you scurry up the beach, using the boulders as cover as you head towards the base of a sheer cliff wall. You are nearing your goal when the sounds of footsteps and gruff voices stop you dead in your tracks: it is a patrol of Giak soldiers. Drawn from their clifftop encampment, having witnessed the battle at sea, they are searching the water's edge for survivors. The tips of their spears glint wetly crimson in the moonlight, alerting you to the fate that has befallen those of Davan's crew who managed to swim ashore.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ok zee orgadak!</quote></foreign> growls one of the leading scouts, pointing in your direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, and have reached the Kai rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta>
- <title>15</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with an alert Vladoka&emdash;an élite Nadziranim temple guard. You cannot evade this combat and must fight your adversary to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Vladoka</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the power of the weapon he wields, this being is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta>
- <title>16</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are expecting the sudden chill of cold water, so it comes as a great shock when you slam down upon the moving steel deck of the Darkland ironclad. Your legs buckle and your knees hit your chest, forcing the air from your lungs and leaving you gasping like a fish out of water: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You have barely recovered when a Drakkar sailor, armed with a billhook, looms out of the smoke and lunges at your head.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Sailor</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the first two rounds of this fight, owing to the shock of your landing and the surprise of your enemy's attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>
- </choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta>
- <title>17</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you fail to answer, the burly sergeant strides forward and repeats his command impatiently. You meet his cold stare and project a surge of psychic energy directly into his brain. He begins to shiver, his cruel eyes widening as your attack erodes his ability to concentrate. You will him to allow you to pass, and mechanically he turns around to face his troops. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Agna tok!</quote></foreign> he says. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Dok lug shad.</quote></foreign></p>
- <p>As the armoured soldiers stand aside, you ride quickly through the gate and along a shadowy street that leads down to the quay. At the end of the street is a sign that indicates the way to the two main areas of Argazad: the ironclad harbour and the supply depot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to investigate the harbour, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to investigate the supply depot, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta>
- <title>18</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your fatigue, you will yourself to stay awake and watchful. The hours crawl by but your caution finally pays off when, at the height of the storm, a hulking shape appears at the entrance, its shaggy bulk silhouetted by the constant lightning. Sensing your presence in its lair, the creature emits a hungry growl and gets ready to leap at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta>
- <title>19</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the name leaves your lips, the tip of the crystal shard glows bright amber. Instantly the guard reaches for a lever in the wall, and before you can prevent him, he pulls it, setting an alarm bell clanging. In a matter of seconds, the courtyard is awash with a nightmare legion of snarling, screaming, snapping horrors. They fall upon you, and although you slay many, they overpower you eventually and haul you in chains before Darklord Gnaag. With cruel glee, he orders you to be cast into the Lake of Blood, where your endless suffering will feed its unholy flames for all eternity.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, on the threshold of victory, your natural life and mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta>
- <title>20</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the deck as the missile drops like a meteor from the sky. It passes overhead, between the main and mizzen masts, then hits the water with a tremendous splash. The other enemy vessels start to turn to bring their weapons to bear, but the heavy iron ships are slow and cumbersome, and by the time they have altered position, the Intrepid is out of range and sailing at speed into the dully gleaming waters of the Kaltesee.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta>
- <title>21</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you draw on your psychic defences, erecting a shield to deflect the surge of mental energy that is coursing through your mind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every Magnakai Discipline you possess, including your initial three skills, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta>
- <title>22</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are pulling yourself over the parapet when the silence is shattered by the piercing clang of a bell.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ok zee orgadak iak zordak tozaz!</quote></foreign> screams a Giak sentry, leaning out of the watchtower window. With one hand he is pointing at you with a sword and with the other he is tugging frantically at the cord of an alarm bell. You curse your luck as you turn to face the two sentries who are now rushing along the battlements their spears held ready to stab you to death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Giak Sentries</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">You can evade combat at any time by leaping from the battlements to the ground below, a jump of over twenty feet: <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta>
- <title>23</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-fast reflexes save you from the small, jelly-like creature that is plummeting towards your head. You sidestep and it hits the floor with a splat like a handful of falling mud. Immediately it springs towards your face, forcing you to defend yourself as best you can.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Plaak springs from the<br />floor towards your face</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="679"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="679"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Plaak</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Owing to the speed of its attack, unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, you are unable to draw a weapon and must fight the first round of combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta>
- <title>24</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The mate leads you through the bowels of the ship to your quarters near the stern. You are hoping for some degree of comfort but the cabin turns out to be cramped and smelly, sandwiched between the galley and the bilge. Despite the lack of space, and a stomach-churning smell redolent of dead fish, you manage to catch a few hours' sleep before the grey dawn haze filters through the glass of the cabin's solitary porthole.</p>
- <p>Desperate for fresh air, you make your way up to the forecastle where you find the captain, standing alone at the rail, reading the contents of the envelope. <quote>'Tis a brave risky adventure you've committed yourself to, comrade,</quote> he says, without raising his eyes from the parchment clutched in his gloved hands. <quote>Yet these be risky times. I can only guess at what lies beyond your journey to Dejkaata, but of one thing you can be sure&emdash;I will do all in my power to see you safely there.</quote> Immediately, he issues orders to turn the ship about and steer a new course&emdash;north-by-north west. The crew react to the sudden change of plan with great speculation, yet, despite the dangers they know they may have to face, none challenge their captain's decision or voice dissent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta>
- <title>25</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The harrowing howls of your pursuers are growing louder with each passing second. The ghastliness of the sound makes you shiver involuntarily and ruins your aim. The arrow misses the guard and shatters against the wall of the tower, its steel tip drawing sparks, which causes the creature to give a yell of shocked surprise. Fearful that his cry will alert those who are following you, you shoulder your bow hurriedly and draw a hand weapon. Then you sprint towards the startled guard, grimly determined to finish him before he raises the alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd and wish to use it to slay this creature, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you do not possess this Special Item, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta>
- <title>26</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense informs you that the stairs descend to the control cabin and crew's quarters then on to the cargo sections which house huge tanks filled with sulphur, used as fuel for the engine of this strange craft. The sudden appearance of the sailor's body has started a commotion, and the sound of heavy boots grating on metal warns you that more Drakkarim are ascending the stairs to investigate what, or who, caused their comrade's death. To attempt to descend the stairs could prove fatal, so hurriedly you slam shut the door and look for another place to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta>
- <title>27</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Kuzoknar jeg okak eg?</quote></foreign> bellows the Giak, angrily. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Okak nenrak! Okak gaj!</quote></foreign> He is clearly unimpressed by your demand, and, as he and his two subordinates draw their swords, you decide that the time for talk is over.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Aarnak Giaks</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta>
- <title>28</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkarim lie entangled at your feet, their heaped bodies a grim testimony to the deadly art of a Kai lord in battle. You step back from your lifeless foes, grabbing the ship's rail as the deck lists heavily to starboard. The Intrepid is sinking fast.</p>
- <p><quote>Abandon ship!</quote> cries Davan, his voice carrying above the clangour of striking swords and dying men. As he rushes past you, followed closely by two blood-spattered Kirlundins, he urges you to save yourself before the ship goes down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you wish to follow Davan, and abandon ship, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you decide to search the bodies of your dead enemies first, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta>
- <title>29</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Boldly you approach the two bovine guards, confident that your disguise will deceive them into letting you pass. Using the Giak language, you request that they open the door. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Tok etaar!</quote></foreign> you say, in a commanding tone. The guards are unimpressed. Slowly one of them reaches to his belt pouch and removes a strange, box-shaped device fashioned from silvery crystal. He flicks it open and it emits a loud humming noise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, and have attained the Kai rank of Scion-kai or more, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta>
- <title>30</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced Kai skills, you lower yourself over the edge of the path and begin a perilous descent to the beach below. Twice your fingers lose their grip, but on both occasions your reflexes save you from falling backwards to your doom. Above, you hear angry shouts as the two Giak search parties converge and discover you gone. They blame each other for allowing you to escape, and, in the ensuing scuffle, more than one screaming body falls past you to crash on the rocks below. Arrows begin to fall from the cliff's edge, but they are poorly aimed and few come within an arm's length of hitting you. Order returns and the Giaks start to descend the steep path, but by then it is too late for them to catch you, as you escape northwards along the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta>
- <title>31</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai senses warn you that if you were to invert the tube, the acceleration of power inside the orange tank would lead to an immediate and devastating explosion. Rather than risk your life and your mission by tampering with the tube, you decide instead to remove some of the fabric that insulates the cables running close to the tank. The effects of this sabotage may not be felt until the vessel has been at sea for some time, but when the cables eventually disintegrate, it will rob the juggernaut of all its power. Should this happen during one of the Kaltesee's frequent storms, then an iron-hulled craft this large would be sure to capsize and sink without trace.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta>
- <title>32</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your advanced Magnakai skills, you cause your facial characteristics to become harder and more brutal in appearance.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Loga ok okak sheg!</quote></foreign> (Free me you dog!) you growl in Giak, mimicking the Drakkarim accent to perfection. In the confines of the corridor, your assailant is easily deceived into thinking that he has assaulted one of his fellow marines by mistake. The moment he releases his grip, you spin around and attack with your bare but deadly hands.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar (surprise attack)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">12</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>You must fight the first two rounds of combat unarmed. Only at the start of the third round are you able to unsheathe a hand weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta>
- <title>33</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced Kai skill, you focus your hearing on what is being said by the suspicious-looking group. To your dismay you hear them plotting to ambush and kill you. They are followers of Darklord Taktaal, arch-rival of Darklord Ghanesh, whose colours you are wearing. They plan to murder you in retaliation for the death of one of their own, who was poisoned by Ghanesh's minions.</p>
- <p>You watch them out of the corner of your eye, and, as soon as they turn away their heads, you hurry into a tunnel that has been avoided by the other passengers. The speed of your action catches the group by surprise; none of them sees which tunnel you take and you escape with ease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta>
- <title>34</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your greatly enhanced ability to see into the distance, and in the dark, enables you to recognize at once that the cave-like opening in the side of the mountain is a perfectly smooth archway. It has been carved from the rock purposefully, and is not a natural fissure or fault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you wish to inspect the opening more closely, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you decide instead to return to the Giak outpost and attempt to gain entry, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta>
- <title>35</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swing clear of the rigging and leap astride the Xargath's neck, but it senses your presence and twists and bucks like a wild stallion to unseat you. Grimly you cling to its scaly hide, stabbing repeatedly at its ears and spine in the hope of disabling it before it breaks free. In desperation it tries to dislodge you, using its massive foreclaws to scratch at its neck in an attempt to hook you away.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Xargath</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">10</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">You can evade combat at any time by climbing the main mast and hiding in the crow's nest: <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>
- </choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta>
- <title>36</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Icy winds tear at your mask and armour as you soar thousands of feet above the southern foothills of the Gourdanak Mountain Range. Were it not for the protection of your Golden Amulet, the bitter fury of these winds would have frozen you to death within an hour of leaving Argazad, yet you feel nothing, save exhilaration and a nagging fear of what awaits you in Aarnak.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="152" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="152" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Dawn breaks during the second hour of your flight, and in its dull grey light you glimpse the landscape as it speeds past below. To the south lies the Naogizaga, a vast plain of ash and slime-filled rifts; to the north lie the snow-capped peaks of the Gourdanak Mountains; and ahead lies an unwelcoming vista, a desolation of stunted, poisonous vegetation and hilly crags. You are tired and hungry after your perilous ordeal in Argazad, and must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">To continue, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta>
- <title>37</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through narrowed eyes you watch as the shape draws slowly nearer. A tingle of apprehension chills your skin when you recognize it. Emerging out of the twilight gloom comes a wagon laden with barrels and boxes, drawn by six ox-like creatures. Two Giak soldiers sit on the front seat&emdash;a driver and a guard. Behind them ride four horsemen&emdash;Drakkarim escorts, judging by their size and the cut of their black leather armour. The driver cracks his whip and you notice his eyes fix on the place where you are hiding.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If your total score is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta>
- <title>38</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With breathtaking suddenness, the pain in your shoulder melts away and you feel yourself falling into an inky black void. You fight to remain conscious, but it is a fight you cannot hope to win, for the deadly viral poison has worked its way into your heart and its insidious effect has committed you to an everlasting sleep.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here on the streets of Helgedad.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta>
- <title>39</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brace yourself to receive the enemy as they swarm around you, howling with primal fury, their teeth bared and their faces contorted with rage. The Drakkar officer screams, <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Darg!</quote></foreign> and they hurl themselves recklessly upon you.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Assault Squad</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">33</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta>
- <title>40</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Black Cube is a Nadziranim power crystal, a deadly explosive charge devised by the Darkland sorcerers. Since you picked it up, the cube has become increasingly unstable, and now, as you take your first steps into the Imperial Armoury, it explodes with devastating effect. The blast triggers the Crystal Explosive that you had intended to use to destroy the Transfusor, and, in the resulting explosion, you, and this entire section of Helgedad, are blown to smithereens.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta>
- <title>41</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first mate, whose name is Davan, helps you to splint the captain's broken legs and construct a makeshift stretcher on which to carry him to his cabin. Having done what you can to make the captain comfortable, you return on deck to survey the damage.</p>
- <p>Over half the crew have been killed or injured in the attack, and the ship itself is badly mauled. The main mast is down, the sails are shredded, and there is a gaping hole that stretches along the port beam to within a few feet of the waterline.</p>
- <p><quote>We can patch up the sails and work the ship on a skeleton crew,</quote> says Davan, peering over the shattered rail, <quote>but if we catch a storm this far out to sea, we're done for.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta>
- <title>42</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A section of the boomsail strikes your face, opening a nasty gash across your forehead: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Stunned by the blow, you react sluggishly to the burning canvas now draped over your body. In a matter of seconds the flames and smoke have completely engulfed you, yet your clothes do not ignite and you feel absolutely no pain, save the wound to your head. Without haste or urgency you cast the blazing sail aside and emerge unburned.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta>
- <title>43</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giak snatches the coins from your hand and grunts his approval. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Dez ar ok!</quote></foreign> he says, and leads the way. (Delete from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> half of the Kika you possess.)</p>
- <p>You follow him through a maze of garbage-choked streets, past rusting tenements and squalid huts, to an iron tower at the heart of the city. Unlike all else, this tower appears to have been unaffected by the corrosive atmosphere: its surface is dull yet free from decay. The Giak speaks with another who guards its open entrance and immediately he stands aside, allowing you to enter the tower's gloomy ground floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta>
- <title>44</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of the crevasse, craning your neck to see into its lightless depths, when suddenly a thin, snaky tendril rises out of the darkness and stabs at your chest. There is a flash and a terrible pain spreads through your body, radiating to your limbs and leaving you numb and nerveless: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you survive the attack, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta>
- <title>45</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Orgadak dik!</quote></foreign> growls the leading Drakkar, when first you appear before them. Then he glances at his men and hisses the command: <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Taag dok!</quote></foreign> They leap forward and attack you simultaneously.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Escorts</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta>
- <title>46</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself against the wall. Keeping to the shadows and using your camouflage expertise, you hide from the approaching Liganim.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Disciplines of Invisibility and Psi-screen, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta>
- <title>47</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your greatly improved Magnakai skill enables you to see a string of dark shapes on the distant horizon&emdash;enemy ships. The five squat, ugly-looking vessels all lack sail or masts, or any other visible forms of propulsion, yet each moves at a constant and rapid pace. Quickly you inform the captain of what you can see and urge him to change direction, for the Intrepid is now heading on a collision course with the vessel at the centre of the enemy line.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta>
- <title>48</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You escape from the enemy and hide in a narrow alley, where you wait in silence. When you are sure that you are not being followed, you continue through the streets of this evil metropolis.</p>
- <p>The way ahead is lit momentarily by an exploding fireball that showers this sector of the city with a rain of sparking cinders. In the brief light of the explosion you now see that the street along which you are walking is a cul-de-sac that ends abruptly at a square tower.</p>
- <p>A creature, its face and body enveloped in a shroud-like robe, stands guard at the entrance to this ponderous building, clutching in its vulture-like claws a stave of iron that crackles with magical blue flames.</p>
- <p>The sound of howling screams echoes in the darkness behind you, warning that you are being pursued. Rather than turn and face your pursuers, you decide to take refuge in the tower, but to do so you must first deal with the guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you have a bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta>
- <title>49</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim and fire, sending your arrow clean through the breast of the first bird and clipping the wing tip of the second as it whistles skyward. It shrieks in alarm, but rather than take fright and fly away, it banks over and dives for your eyes, determined to exact revenge for the death of its mate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you have at least one arrow and wish to fire at your feathered attacker, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you have no arrows, or if you choose to defend yourself with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta>
- <title>50</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin around to see the ghastly form of Darklord Gnaag emerge from a shadowy archway, his composite eyes glittering evilly. You stiffen at his approach, your muscles locked like coiled springs. Your whole life's struggle is concentrated into this moment; at last the time has come to avenge the Kai and rid your world of these evil masters of darkness forever. You feel a transformation taking place deep within you, a growing strength and sharpness of mind. It breathes new life into your battle-weary body and fills you with the certain knowledge that your destiny is about to be fulfilled (restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to its original level).</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The ghastly form of Darklord Gnaag<br />emerges from a shadowy archway</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="648"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="648"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The chamber echoes to a loud, rasping snarl, full of anger and fear, as Gnaag becomes aware of your true identity. You move forward, confident in your strength. But before you can attack, Gnaag fades from sight and a shimmering haze rises from the floor. The mist draws into focus and an eerie cadence, like a distant scream, fills your ears.</p>
- <p>The phantom mist crystallizes into the shape of a winged beast with glowing ghost-eyes. It opens its fang-filled mouth and your mind screams an alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta>
- <title>51</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bosun falls screaming on to the heads of the others, his heavy body dragging them down into a heap at the foot of the stairs. You take this opportunity to escape to the surface, pausing only long enough to slam shut the steel door before looking elsewhere for some place to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta>
- <title>52</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the toe of your boot, you turn over the body of the dead Giak and search it for any items that may be of use. You discover the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>20 Kika (equivalent to 2 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta>
- <title>53</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your arm and lash out at the speeding shaft, hoping to turn it aside on the edge of your weapon, but it ricochets towards you, gouging a furrow of skin and hair from your scalp: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The archer fires again, but this time you manage to twist aside, and the arrow thuds harmlessly into the deck. He curses and bares his teeth as he reaches for yet another arrow. But before he can fire again, his aim is spoiled by two of his comrades, who rush forwards to hack at you with axe and sword. Davan protects your back, holding off the marines who are attempting to climb the stairs. You evade the first blows your enemies, sidestepping a lunge and ducking wild swipe, then strike back with deadly speed and unerring accuracy. Both scream and fall simultaneously, dying with a look of surprise fixed on their cruel faces.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta>
- <title>54</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door is not locked, and beyond it you discover another hall equally as impressive as the laboratory. It is the Imperial Armoury, and it is filled with row upon row of fearsome weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you possess a Black Cube, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta>
- <title>55</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the pain, you stagger to your feet and fumble for a weapon with numbed fingers. Suddenly, a huge shape explodes from the crevasse, rising at such a speed that its features are a blur. It emits a deafening screech, then dives towards your head, its coal-black tendril whipping the air wildly as it attempts to coil it around your neck.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Ictakko</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, you must lose an extra 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point every time this creature inflicts a wound during the combat, owing to the numbing effect of its electrical attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta>
- <title>56</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The screams make the guard anxious. He levels his iron stave and adopts a fighting stance in case he should need to defend himself. His eyes, like pinpoints of red fire glowing inside the hood of his robe, catch sight of you moving in the shadows, and when you strike your first blow you discover that he is poised to parry it on the shaft of his stave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you do not possess this Special Item, or do not wish to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta>
- <title>57</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the sun-sword and a gout of golden flame engulfs the blade, flaring with such brilliance that you are momentarily blinded. Kraagenskûl shrieks. It is an unearthly howl, filled with blind terror. He throws up his skeletal hands to shield himself from the searing light, and smoke curls from his blistering skin as the radiant power of the Sommerswerd burns his flesh. Sparks explode as you fend off the swarming cloud of Crypt Spawn, your blade destroying them with ease, but Kraagenskûl summons yet more of the horrors, and you are hard-pressed to keep from being overwhelmed.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="190" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="190" />
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Crypt Spawn Flood</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you win, and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you win, and the fight lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta>
- <title>58</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the water with a mighty splash and sink like a stone beneath the icy waves, yet the shock serves to electrify your senses and you quickly strike out for the surface. You emerge from the depths, coughing and gasping for air, in time to see the enemy ironclad come steaming alongside the blazing Intrepid. Its great steel hull passes within a few yards of where you are treading water. Fearful that you could be drowned in its wake, you swim towards it and latch on to the bow as it moves past. The heads of the rivets, which secure its steel skin, offer a handhold for your fingers and enable you to drag yourself on to its deck.</p>
- <p>You have had barely enough time to draw breath when a Drakkar sailor, armed with a billhook, rushes forwards and aims a blow at your head.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Sailor</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the first round of this fight, owing to the speed and surprise of your enemy's attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta>
- <title>59</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you dive aside, hoping to escape from the creature's attack, but it changes direction in mid-air and strikes you on the shoulder.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circles of Light and Solaris, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta>
- <title>60</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the crow's nest there comes a scream of abject horror. It echoes down the rigging, alerting all to a great scaly head that has broken through the surface twenty yards off the port bow. <quote>Xargath!</quote> The lookout's cry is taken up by the crew as, one by one, they glimpse the fearful sight of this legendary terror of the Kaltesee.</p>
- <p><quote>Ishir preserve us!</quote> gasps Captain Borse, as the beast opens its jaws revealing the glitter of its jagged, razor-sharp fangs. For a moment he is stunned by the terrifying sight, but quickly he recovers and begins shouting urgent orders to his awestruck crew. <quote>Man the ballistas! Break out the billhooks! All hands stand by to defend the ship!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Xargath rises up from the<br />sea and lunges at the ship</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="652"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="652"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The Xargath observes the commotion in silence, its hooded eyes aglow with baleful green fire as calmly it considers the moment to attack. Then, with an awful suddenness, it rises from the sea, roaring and hissing angrily, and lunges forward. Captain Borse gives the order to fire and a volley of ballista bolts sink into the monster's scaly throat. Undeterred, it presses its attack and falls upon the port beam with devastating effect. Tortured timbers bend and crack asunder. In seconds the deck is torn apart by huge claws, each as long as a mammoth's tusk. Then the cavernous, fang-filled mouth sweeps down through the fog to snap shut upon the forecastle. Screams of pain and terror fill the air as it with draws, soaring upward above the masts, jaws bulging with a dozen wriggling bodies. You take cover behind the ship's longboat with the captain and prepare to defend yourself as the Xargath returns for a second strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you have a bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you choose to unsheathe a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta>
- <title>61</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect61-1-foot" idref="sect61-1">
- <p>Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You nod your willingness to bet on the fight, and the ugly Giak gives a lopsided grin, exposing a mouthful of rotting fangs.</p>
- <p>Firstly, decide how many Kika you wish to bet <a id="sect61-1" idref="sect61-1-foot" class="footnote"/> (the minimum bet is 10) on the outcome and note this figure in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Then, decide whether you wish to stake your money on the orange-skinned reptilian or the blue-skinned humanoid. If the fighter you have chosen wins the combat, you will receive winnings equal to double the amount of Kika you staked. Should your fighter lose the combat, you will lose all of your stake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to bet on the orange-skinned reptilian fighter, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you wish to bet on the blue-skinned humanoid, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta>
- <title>62</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are halfway across the gap when the thin ledge collapses beneath your feet. Desperately you claw at the sheer granite wall but your fingers cannot find purchase, and you fall backwards, toppling to your doom on the rocks far below.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Durncrag Mountains.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta>
- <title>63</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chainmail vest is crafted from a metallic mineral called kagonite. It is as light as wood, yet ten times harder than steel. The Darklords use an alloy of kagonite in the manufacture of weapons used by their troops, and it is this alloy which gives the blades of their weapons their black appearance.</p>
- <p>Wearing this Kagonite Chainmail beneath your tunic will increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points and your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by 1 point. Because it is so light, it can be worn beneath any padded or metallic body armour you may possess.</p>
- <p>Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta>
- <title>64</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the speed and grace of a hunting leopard you launch yourself at the Drakkar rider. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta>
- <title>65</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill to adopt the crude mannerisms and dialect of the Drakkarim, you deliver your message to the sentinel and await his reply. You are nervous in case he sees through your charade, and while you speak you make sure that your hands do not stray too far from your weapons. But the Death Knight does not question your authenticity for a moment. Wearily he nods his head and, grumbling, descends the stairs, leaving you alone on the roof with the Zlanbeast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257"><link-text>Turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta>
- <title>66</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike your killing blow and leap to the deck as, with a final burst of strength, the Xargath pulls its head free of the wreckage. Its green eyes roll back in their sockets and it lets out a scream so loud that you are forced to cover your ears for fear of being permanently deafened. The scream grows louder until, with a mighty splash, the creature topples sideways and rolls off the deck into the fog-wreathed sea.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217"><link-text>Turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta>
- <title>67</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A glancing blow to the side of your head is the first you know of the ambush that has been sprung by the group of creatures you saw whispering to each other in the chamber earlier. They were planning your murder, believing you to be a minion of Darklord Ghanesh&emdash;and arch-rival&emdash;because of the colour of your robe.</p>
- <p>You stagger from the blow (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but manage to keep your balance as you reach to unsheathe a weapon.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Minions of Taktaal</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If the combat lasts longer than four rounds, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta>
- <title>68</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The enemy crew scream and curse as they scramble up the ladder, the first of their number waving his sword with reckless bravado. He takes a swipe at your legs and you are forced to retreat for fear of losing a foot.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Ironclad Bosun</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>If you are armed with any weapon other than a broadsword, a spear, or a quarterstaff, you must deduct 2 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">You can evade combat at the beginning of the second round by ascending to the deck above and slamming shut the door: <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta>
- <title>69</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having completed their task, the engineers pack away their tools and climb down from the work platform that surrounds the orange tank. Patiently, you watch them leave the dry dock before climbing the platform ladder and planting your Crystal Explosive beneath the tank. You prime the device and turn to leave, taking care not to appear anxious or in a hurry, but as you reach the bottom of the ladder you are confronted by three Drakkarim guards, accompanied by a figure dressed in a hooded red robe. Your stomach churns when you glimpse his skeletal face, for the creature is not human&emdash;you are staring into the ghastly eyes of a Vordak!</p>
- <p>The undead being begins to probe your mind with its psychic power and it shrieks in terror when it discovers who you really are. Instantly, you spring into action, drawing your weapon and striking out at them before they can do likewise. The Vordak drops with its skull shattered and a Drakkar staggers back, clutching desperately at his torn throat. The remaining two, having drawn their blades, now lunge at your chest in unison. You parry their attack with ease and send them both to their doom with one sweeping slice. With the explosive set to detonate at any minute, you run towards the exit, barging aside any who cross your path. You are within ten yards of the dock gates when an alarm bell wails and a troop of Death Knights appear in a line before you. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Koga!</quote></foreign> they command, and raise their spears.</p>
- <p>At that moment there is a blinding flash of white light and suddenly everything seems to be happening in slow motion. You see the Death Knights falling backwards, their cloaks and leather armour sprouting tongues of flame. Buckled steel plates, twisted girders, and the bodies of screaming slaves cartwheel past you, trailing sparks as they tumble like fiery meteors. The heat and the shock of the explosion tears into your back and plunges you head-first into a black, unfeeling oblivion. Your act of sabotage has completely destroyed the ironclad juggernaut, and half of Argazad harbour, but it has cost you your life and sealed the doom of Magnamund.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta>
- <title>70</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bite your lip and keep deathly still as the Liganim passes within an arm's length of where you are hiding. He continues on his way without stopping, and, as soon as you sense it is safe, you breathe a sigh of relief and hurry away along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta>
- <title>71</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the enemy warships disappears into the dark, the crew give a rousing cheer. Once more they have risked their lives to run the blockade, and once again they live to tell the tale. The captain requests a damage report, and is relieved to hear that both his ship and crew have survived the close encounter at little cost.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the forecastle, he reminds the lookouts to remain vigilant. Sometimes the enemy place a second line of ironclads a few miles behind the first in order to catch blockade runners that slip through. He bids you goodnight, and, as he descends the stairs to his cabin, he orders the first mate to show you to your quarters at the stern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to accompany the first mate to your cabin, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to hand the captain the envelope containing his new orders, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta>
- <title>72</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stunned and dazed by the impact, you fail to sense or see the four Giak soldiers creeping towards you, their bows drawn ready to fire. The hiss of their black arrows freezes your blood moments before the tips burrow into your chest. Pain hits you like a wave breaking against your body, but the agony soon fades and you slip swiftly into a sleep from which there will be no awakening.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Durncrag Mountains.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta>
- <title>73</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A chilling numbness spreads through your body, starting at your neck and coursing rapidly to your hands and feet. You try to scream but no sound issues from your paralysed throat as your legs give way and you collapse on to the deck of your tiny cabin. You have fallen prey to the bite of a deadly Plaak, placed here by a rival Liganim in a bid to assassinate an old rival.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta>
- <title>74</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From a tube-like contraption mounted behind the funnel of the ironclad there issues a flash and a puff of smoke. Moments later, a fiery ball comes hurtling towards the Intrepid, screeching louder than a flock of angry Kraan. It strikes amidships, causing an explosion that sends a thousand flaming shards hissing in every direction. In seconds the sails, masts and rigging are set ablaze, showering Drakkarim and crew alike with red-hot smoking cinders.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="129" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="129" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Instinctively you cover your head as part of the boomsail lands close by. It brings with it a tangle of burning canvas that smothers you from head to foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If it is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta>
- <title>75</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun-sword spins through the air, its heavy blade pulling it slightly awry. You fear that it will miss the Darklord, yet it catches his outstretched hand and shears it off at the wrist before embedding itself in the chamber wall beyond. The evil lord screams in agony, cradling the severed stump in an attempt to staunch the flow of foul-smelling ichor. Then he shrieks maniacally and raises his sword with his remaining hand. He is badly wounded, but as he staggers forwards you sense that, so long as he wields his black sword, he is a formidable enemy.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Kraagenskûl (wounded)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). If you survive the first three rounds of combat, you are able to retrieve the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta>
- <title>76</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dry dock is unguarded and none of the Drakkarim appears to pay any special attention to you when you enter on horseback. You dismount and tether your horse to a post before making your way through the tangle of steel beams and plates that are strewn around the juggernaut's exposed keel. A group of slaves are at work near the stern, hoisting into position a strange spherical tank made of a sparkling orange metal. As soon as it is secured, the Drakkarim engineers begin coupling heavy springs and thick copper cables to the tank, linking it to a massive propeller at the rear of the craft.</p>
- <p>Carefully you study the complex machinery, soon realizing that if the orange tank were destroyed, or damaged beyond repair, the vessel would be unable to propel itself. However, the shell of the tank appears to be constructed of super-hard metal, and the only way you can think of destroying it is by using your Crystal Explosive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you wish to use your Crystal Explosive to destroy the giant ironclad, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you choose not to use it, but decide to search instead for some other means of sabotaging the vessel, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta>
- <title>77</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take aim at the Drakkar leader's chest. He laughs contemptuously at your bow, as if it were no more dangerous than a child's toy. Then he draws back his blade and takes aim at your neck.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, and have reached the Kai rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of training, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta>
- <title>78</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the killing blow that punctures Taktaal's heart, he shrieks and convulses like a thrashing snake before collapsing at the edge of the dais. A foul black gas hisses from the gaping wound, and his body fades rapidly until all that is left is a dull grey stain on the shiny black steel floor.</p>
- <p><quote>Ghanesh will be proud of you!</quote> comes a voice from the shadows, full of malevolence. It is a sound that strikes terror in your heart, for instantly you recognize the rasping tone of your most hated foe&emdash;Darklord Gnaag, the Archlord of the Darklands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta>
- <title>79</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the dead Drakkar behind the rocks and divest the body of its armour. Although not a perfect fit, the leather battle-jacket, leggings, and battle-mask make you look convincingly like a Drakkar warrior. Apart from the armour (which you need not record on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), you discover a number of items that may be of use to you on the road ahead:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>4 Arrows</li>
- <li>30 Kika (equivalent to 3 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The dead warrior's horse is standing nearby, pawing the ground nervously. Using your innate Kai skill of animal kinship, you succeed in claiming him and making him obey your commands. Slowly he approaches and allows you to climb into the saddle. Once you are sure that you have control you flick your heels and head off at a canter along the trail to Argazad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta>
- <title>80</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The walls of the tunnel shimmer with reddish reflections, as though somewhere in its unknown depths a great fire is blazing. With the fear of being caught making your heart pound in your chest, you look around you, taking in every detail of your surroundings.</p>
- <p>One thing you notice immediately is that the other Liganim all move with a pronounced limp. You take care to copy this strange, irregular gait in order not to attract suspicion. None appears to show you any undue interest until you reach a semicircular chamber at the tunnel's end. There the passengers split up and enter numerous smaller passages that burrow beneath the city in all directions. One group, however, remains in the chamber. They huddle close together and whisper among themselves whilst casting glances at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta>
- <title>81</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you stands a magnificent warrior, tall and broad-shouldered, clad in purple satin and shiny steel mail. He holds you with his jade-green eyes and says: <quote>I am the Slavemaster. Remove your mask, Drakkar, and reveal your true self.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Before you stands a magnificent<br />warrior, the Slavemaster</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Your Kai senses tell you that he speaks the truth: he is the Slavemaster of Aarnak, and he has recognized the words that identify you as a fellow-agent of the Elder Magi. But the many years he has spent as a servant of the Darklords has taught him to be wary of their subterfuge, and not until you remove your battle-mask and he looks upon your unmistakably Sommlending features does he accept you as genuine. <quote>Long have I waited for this moment,</quote> he says, quietly. <quote>I know why you have come and I will help you all I can.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But why?</quote> you reply, now suspicious of his true motives. <quote>Why do you desire to betray your masters? Have they not given you the power you crave?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye! That they have, but at a grievous price. Since the war began, they have demanded that the foundries and ore pits of Aarnak produce ever-increasing supplies of black steel. The quotas are impossible and I fear that the day is close when I will be of no more use to them. Ultimately, the Darklords destroy everything over which they have control&emdash;cities, land, races, even their own kind. The Elder Magi have promised me sanctuary in return for my help, and help I shall, for my life is dependent on your success.</quote> He smiles, amused by the irony of his situation, then he bids you follow him to an adjoining chamber. <quote>Come, you must prepare for your journey to the Black City.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta>
- <title>82</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow spirals towards the Xargath's eye and, to your astonishment, splinters to matchwood against its stone-hard cornea. Cursing your misfortune, you reach for a hand weapon as the creature advances unceasingly, its jaws widening as it prepares to swallow you whole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta>
- <title>83</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill and experience alert you to the threat of an imminent ambush. The group of creatures you saw whispering to each other in the chamber earlier are creeping up on you from behind, armed with an assortment of deadly weapons. You spin around to confront them as they prepare to attack, and catch all of them wrong-footed.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Minions of Taktaal</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and surprise of your counter-attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you may lose in the first two rounds of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta>
- <title>84</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you watch as the great tube is gradually lowered, by means of ratchets and gears, until it is pointing directly at the waterline of the Intrepid. It seems a pointless exercise: the ship is sinking so quickly that to fire upon it now would seem to be wasteful. Then suddenly you realize what the enemy captain is planning to do; the thought of it stirs you to anger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta>
- <title>85</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing in the corridor outside is a slim, small, seemingly insignificant figure, clad in a loose-fitting garment of plain emerald cloth. His pinched and pallid face is of human proportion, and, were it not for his pig-like snout and watery, colourless eyes, he could easily pass for one of your species.</p>
- <p><quote>Humble greetings, Cagath,</quote> he says, in a syrupy sweet tone that makes your flesh crawl. <quote>I bring the compliments of Bazdash-Vool, my worthy master. He invites you to join him in the gallery, where he as about to host an entertainment for his illustrious fellow passengers, to make their journey altogether less tiresome. Will you grace us with your presence, noble Cagath?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you wish to accept this creature's invitation and accompany him to the gallery, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you decide to decline the invitation, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta>
- <title>86</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After spending two hours scrutinizing every move the Giak guards make, you are sure that the two patrolling the wall follow the same routine with little variation. Once every two minutes exactly, their beat brings them both to a point near the watchtower at the middle of the wall, where they turn about before starting another circuit of patrol.</p>
- <p>You wait until one of the sentries reaches the end of the battlements&emdash;at a point where it abuts the sheer mountain wall&emdash;and when he turns to march back to the centre, you make your move. Crouching low, you scurry to the foot of the wall and begin to climb, counting every passing second as you struggle to find handholds in the darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or more, add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If your total score is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta>
- <title>87</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you peer into the abyss, your weapon held ready in case another of the fearsome Ictakko should surge from the depths and attack. But in this instance your caution proves unnecessary, for your senses soon tell you that a colony of cave bats are the only creatures that now occupy the dark and silent crevasse.</p>
- <p>With ease, you leap across the crevasse at its narrowest point and leave the cavern by the tunnel in the opposite wall. Here, too, the walls are encrusted with light-emitting bacteria, enabling you to progress quickly through a series of interconnecting halls and chambers. The cobwebbed remains of broken mining equipment litter many of these places, revealing why the Darklords constructed this labyrinth of tunnels. After an hour of exploration you find the main exit from the mine. Darkness greets your return to the surface, but your senses inform you that you have emerged in the pass that traverses the mountain range.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta>
- <title>88</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gnaag recoils in terror when he recognizes the weapon you wield. Fashioned in the fiery furnaces that lie buried deep in the bowels of the city, it possesses a power than can seal his doom. He retreats and you take up the attack in this momentous struggle.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Gnaag</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">70</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>The power of the weapon you wield is greatly intensified when used within the walls of Helgedad. Owing to its increased power, add 12 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight. Darklord Gnaag is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta>
- <title>89</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn you that a large section of the middle deck, severely weakened during the Xargath's attack, is now on the verge of collapsing beneath the weight of fighting men. Forewarned by your Kai skill, you shout an order to the Kirlundins to retreat towards the bow. Immediately they obey, pausing only to help those wounded who cannot move, and quickly withdraw before the renewed Drakkarim assault. Seconds later, with an ear-splitting crack, the timbers split asunder and the host of enemy troops suddenly disappear, amid screams and curses, into the bowels of the ship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334"><link-text>Turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta>
- <title>90</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kraagenskûl's skeletal hand scoops up the sword a second before your own slaps the ground. You raise your eyes and your heart freezes with terror as the black blade whistles towards your neck. With the cruel, gloating laugh of the evil Darklord echoing in your ears, your life is brought to a swift and tragic conclusion.</p>
- <p>Your mission ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta>
- <title>91</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from your enemy as he screams and tumbles over the ship's rail. Then, as if in answer to his cry, a horn shrieks loudly. It is the ironclad; it has at last caught up and is steaming alongside the blazing Intrepid. Clouds of acrid yellow smoke now merge with the oily black plumes pouring from the inferno that was once the ship's hold, adding to the chaos and confusion. You pull yourself on to the rail and wait for the smoke to thin before you make your leap. Suddenly the ship lurches violently and you slip and fall feet-first into the swirling smog.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta>
- <title>92</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knight spins around and lowers his spear when he hears you approaching. He growls like a hungry lion then demands to know what you are doing here.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, add another 2 points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta>
- <title>93</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the bacteria to be Gnallia, a beneficial bacillus that is acclaimed by the healers and herbalists of Durenor. Potions of Gnallia are often prescribed to prevent and cure infections of the blood. The raw bacteria are edible and, despite their awful taste, are rich in protein. There is enough here for more than 10 Meals. If you wish to keep some of this Gnallia, record it in the Meals section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Each Meal of Gnallia will restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta>
- <title>94</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your heart pounding in anticipation, you cast your gaze around the grey granite walls of a subterranean vault: your journey through the Shadow Gate has returned you to the land of your birth. You are standing in the Externment Chamber, a room located deep below the Guildhall of the Crystal Star in Toran. Facing you, and illuminated by the glow of several tall candles, is a line of throne-like seats. Two men, both attired in silken robes, are seated at the centre of the row, their heads bowed and their hands clasped in silent prayer. The sound of your footsteps stirs them from their meditations and, as they raise their heads, you recognize the face of your friend, Banedon, and your tutor, Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>As the two men raise their heads, you<br />recognize Banedon and Lord Rimoah</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="694"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="694"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>The gods be praised!</quote> breathes Rimoah, his eyes wide with astonishment. <quote><foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign> has returned. The prophecy is fulfilled.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly they rise and step forward to greet you, their movements hesitant and uncertain, scarcely able to believe that you are alive. Calmly you assure them that they are not dreaming, that you have indeed survived your exile to the Daziarn Plane and have returned, more determined than ever to avenge yourself upon Darklord Gnaag.</p>
- <p>Eagerly Rimoah and Banedon listen as you recount your experiences in the Daziarn and, when you have finished, they tell you what has befallen Magnamund during your absence. Although it seemed that you spent little more than a few days in the Daziarn, more than eight years have passed since Gnaag caused you to fall into the Shadow Gate of Torgar. <quote>He was quick to proclaim your death,</quote> says Banedon, unfurling a map of Northern Magnamund upon the floor of the chamber. <quote>The news came as a terrible blow to us all.</quote></p>
- <p>Lord Rimoah kneels and points at the map, indicating the city of Torgar with the tip of a slender crystal rod. <quote>After your disappearance, Lord Adamas was killed, and the allied armies were quickly ejected from Torgar. Gnaag declared himself invincible, and in the wake of his victory the Darkland defeats were soon halted throughout central Magnamund. A terrible sense of hopelessness befell the allies, which was exploited to the full by the malevolent Gnaag. His sorcerers, the Nadziranim, created devices they call <quote>Tanoz-tukor</quote> to enable each of the Darklords to survive in territories outside their accursed realm. Previously they had been unable to survive beyond the Darklands for any great length of time and, during these rare, brief excursions, their powers were greatly reduced. Now they are able to lead their armies in battle personally, and they have been eager to exercise their new-found freedom.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>The war against the Darklords is all but lost,</quote> continues Banedon, his eyes cast down at the map, which is covered with black markers indicating the frightening number of countries Gnaag has added to his empire. <quote>With the help of our allies in Durenor, Sommerlund has so far resisted his attempts at invasion, but now we find ourselves cut off from Durenor's aid by a blockade of Darklord warships. Here,</quote> he says, pointing to the Gulf of Helenag, <quote>is where Gnaag has constructed a huge naval base. It is called Argazad, and it is from here that he launches his fleet of ironclad warships to blockade our coast. The Sommlending navy is no match for these monstrous sea machines, and without the troops, food, and weapons we have been receiving by sea from Durenor, our days are numbered.</quote></p>
- <p>Lord Rimoah rises to his feet and stares fixedly into your eyes. <quote>Your skill, bravery, and your vow to avenge the death of the Kai are the keys to our salvation. Only you, Lone Wolf, can save us now. You are our only hope in this hour of darkness.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect166"><link-text>Turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta>
- <title>95</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You snatch a large ring of keys from the belt of a dead guard and unlock the steel door. Beyond it you discover a vast hall filled with row upon row of fearsome weaponry. It is the Imperial Armoury of Helgedad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you possess a Black Cube, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta>
- <title>96</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the ground and roll forward to lessen the impact, but still the force of the landing numbs your legs and leaves you breathless. As you struggle to stand, your vision swims in and out of focus.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris and the Lore-circle of Light, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta>
- <title>97</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the first opportunity, you leave the busy street and ride along a little-used alley. It leads to a large, flat-roofed warehouse, common in this section of Argazad. It is unlit and seemingly empty.</p>
- <p>As you halt in front of its sliding steel door, you are startled by a loud screech and the flap of huge wings directly above. You look up to see a dark shape crossing the moonlit sky, and then plummet to land somewhere behind the warehouse. Intrigued by this shadowy creature, you decide to skirt around the warehouse and investigate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta>
- <title>98</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An icy cold spike of fear stabs your heart as you feel something wet and slippery land on top of your head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circles of Light and Solaris, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta>
- <title>99</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you draw an arrow to your lips and take aim at the Drakkar's throat, at the point where a thin strip of unprotected skin is visible between the chin-piece of his battle-mask and the top of his hardened-leather breastplate. A wound there should prove fatal and yet leave untarnished the armour that you intend to wear in order to gain entry to Argazad.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it any bow skill bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta>
- <title>100</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Almost invisible against the horizon of black cliffs and cloudy grey skies are two enemy warships, anchored a few hundred yards offshore. At first they look deserted, then the sudden clang of alarm bells and the appearance of huge clouds of yellow smoke from their funnels indicate they are manned, and they intend to give chase.</p>
- <p><quote>Our only chance is to outrun them,</quote> says Davan, his eyes narrowing as he surveys the ironclads hauling their anchors and turning about. At his command the crew spring into action, breaking their backs to coax every last knot of speed from their battered ship, but the winds are against them and the enemy, not reliant on sails for their propulsion, are soon closing the gap.</p>
- <p><quote>Prepare to repel boarders!</quote> shouts Davan, as an ironclad draws alongside. Hastily they abandon their attempt to outrun the enemy, and draw weapons in readiness to receive a unit of leather-clad Drakkarim marines who are poised to spring aboard the very moment the two vessels collide. Then, with a resounding crash, the ironclad smashes into the side of the Intrepid and the enemy come scrambling over the rail, screaming and howling like a pack of demons.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="169" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="169" />
- </illustration>
- <p>One of their number singles you out. He strides forward, his black blade swinging viciously as he attempts to cleave your skull in two. Owing to the speed of his attack you are unable to make use of a bow.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Marine</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect7">You can evade combat at any time: <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta>
- <title>101</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first you are puzzled by your new-found invulnerability, then you remember the Golden Amulet that Banedon gave you before you left Toran. Its magical powers have saved you from serious injury. Silently you give thanks to your old friend.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="188" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="188" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The explosion has caused havoc aboard the Intrepid. Men run howling across the decks, their clothes and hair ablaze, as the fire spreads swiftly throughout the ship. <quote>Save yourselves!</quote> cries Davan. <quote>Abandon ship!</quote> You reach the deck rail, and, as you look along the beam, you see scores of men&emdash;Drakkarim and Sommlending alike&emdash;hurling themselves into the cold, dark waters of the Kaltesee rather than perish amid the roaring holocaust of fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery or Divination, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you do not possess either of these skills, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta>
- <title>102</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a powerful spirit-creature, summoned by Darklord Gnaag from the Plane of Darkness. You fight to suppress your fear, for, by feeding upon it, the creature is growing stronger and stronger.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Mind Reaper</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is especially susceptible to psychic attack. Double all bonuses you would normally receive if you choose to use either Mindblast or Psi-surge during the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta>
- <title>103</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath, you wait for the creature to appear, fearful yet confident that your bow skill will put paid to the hostile intentions of this malodorous cave-dweller.</p>
- <p>The tip of a thin, snaky limb rises from the abyss and glides slowly across the ground towards your legs. Its skin is smooth and dark, like black velvet, and it moves with alarming speed. Suddenly it halts, as if sensing the danger, and draws itself up like a serpent preparing to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to fire at the snaky limb, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you decide to hold your fire and wait for it to make the first move, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta>
- <title>104</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature howls with malicious joy, and its Liganim followers add to this hellish cry with a chorus of cackling laughter as they spread out quickly to surround you. You have stumbled into a sector of Helgedad that is the domain of Darklord Taktaal, an arch-rival of Darklord Ghanesh whose colours you wear. With the thought of your slaughter fixed in their minds, the minions of Taktaal launch their attack. You cannot evade this combat and must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Minions of Taktaal</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">31</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">43</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>If you possess the sword Helshezag, and wish to use it, remember to add the appropriate bonuses to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta>
- <title>105</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow speeds towards its target and disappears. Seemingly uninjured, the Xargath draws back its head in readiness to strike, its awesome jaws poised to seal your doom. Death seems but moments away, when suddenly the creature freezes. It shudders, its green eyes roiling in their sockets, then gives vent to a scream so loud that you are forced to cover your ears for fear of being deafened. The scream grows louder until, with a mighty splash, the Xargath lurches sideways into the fog-wreathed sea.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217"><link-text>Turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta>
- <title>106</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has the Xaghash crashed dead at your feet than you see yet more of its loathsome kind emerging from the surrounding towers. There is no time to search the dead body&emdash;to stay would be suicidal. Without hesitation, you turn on your heel and run for your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta>
- <title>107</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bird approaches at incredible speed, its black body difficult to make out against the darkening cloud. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to it any bow skill bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If your total score is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta>
- <title>108</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Okak nenrak!</quote></foreign> growls the Giak, unsheathing his short sword. Your offer of a bribe has aroused his suspicions; he thinks you have stolen the Zlanbeast and he intends to kill you, thereby securing promotion for himself.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Aarnak Giak Sentry</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta>
- <title>109</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are fighting a horde of winged Crypt Spawn. You cannot evade this combat and must fight the loathsome creatures to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Crypt Spawn Flood</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta>
- <title>110</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deck heaves and shudders, and the metallic whirr of the ironclad's engine rises to a deafening roar as it fights to extricate itself from the stern of the sinking Intrepid. Then a war-horn blares, signalling to the enemy troops to break off their attack and return to their vessels. Everywhere you look Drakkarim marines and Sommlending crewmen are sheathing their weapons and scrambling towards the ship's rail. Clouds of acrid yellow smoke waft across the decks, adding to the chaos and confusion as scores of men hurl themselves into the dark waves of the Kaltesee.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Scores of men hurl themselves over<br />the ship's rail into the Kaltesee</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="690"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="690"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Jump!</quote> shouts Davan.</p>
- <p><quote>But what about the captain?</quote> you reply, anxiously.</p>
- <p><quote>Forget the captain,</quote> he says, pointing at the enemy craft. <quote>No one can help him now. The ironclad that rammed our stern completely demolished his cabin. No one could have lived through that.</quote></p>
- <p>You pull yourself over the rail and wait for the smoke to thin before you leap. But the Intrepid lurches violently, and, before you can stop yourself, you slip and fall head-first into the swirling yellow smog.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta>
- <title>111</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck behind a boulder, then immediately begin crawling on your stomach towards another large rock. The slippery shingle aids your progress, but the scrunching sound of enemy footfalls is growing ever louder and you begin to fear that they will catch up with you before you can slip away.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 1 to this number for every Magnakai Discipline you possess in excess of three Disciplines (for example, if you possess five Disciplines, add 2 to the number you have picked).</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If your total is now 0&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta>
- <title>112</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature soon accepts that you are its new master and becomes totally obedient to your commands. It lowers its head and allows you to climb on to its back, where you settle into a comfortable saddle, high-backed and luxuriously padded. A tug on the gem-encrusted reins, and the Zlanbeast takes to the air, climbing with breathtaking speed into the night sky. High above the ironclad fleet, you turn the beast towards the west and begin a journey that you pray will end safely in Aarnak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta>
- <title>113</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Davan, and the remnants of his crew, are clinging in desperation to the flotsam that surrounds their dying ship. Many are wounded and their pitiful cries for help can clearly be heard aboard the Drakkarim ironclad. The enemy captain watches them through narrowed eyes, an evil sneer spreading slowly across his brutal face as he reaches for the mechanism that will launch a fire-missile into their midst.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="195" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="195" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you have a bow and wish to fire at the captain to prevent him from murdering your fellow countrymen, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to fire at the captain, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta>
- <title>114</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense the creature weaken as your psychic barrier prevents your fear, that it needs in order to maintain its strength, from escaping. It howls its ghostly frustration and launches itself at your throat.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Mind Reaper</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This supernatural creature is especially susceptible to psychic attack. Double all bonuses you would normally receive if you choose to use either Mindblast or Psi-surge during the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta>
- <title>115</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lookouts are naturally curious about the only passenger aboard their ship, especially as he keeps company with Guildmaster Banedon, the most highly respected magician in Sommerlund. They question you keenly about your mission to Durenor, but when you insist that you are sworn to secrecy, they pursue the matter no further&emdash;with you at least.</p>
- <p>You learn that they hail from the Kirlundin Isles, a fiefdom famed for its brave and intrepid seafarers, whose ships have protected the coasts of Sommerlund for more than a thousand years. It shocks you deeply to learn that, during your exile in the Daziarn, the Darklords have destroyed the Kirlundin fleet and laid to waste the once fertile isles.</p>
- <p><quote>We'll soon free our isles from that vile cur Gnaag,</quote> growls one disgruntled sailor. The others echo his sentiment, but behind their bravado you sense their fear that they may never live to see their islands free again.</p>
- <p>A brooding silence descends on the deck and you decide it would be wise to get some rest before dawn breaks. One of the ship's mates volunteers to show you to your quarters, and you accept his help gratefully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24"><link-text>Turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta>
- <title>116</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage descends for several hundred yards before it levels out and becomes far wider. Beetle-shaped gems embedded in the walls radiate a flickering white glow that bathes this section of the tunnel in a ghostly light, and, as you move along it, you notice a figure in the middle distance, limping towards you. You recognize the figure to be a Liganim, dressed in a silver-grey hooded robe that is identical to the one you wear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to try to hide from this creature, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you decide to ignore him and continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta>
- <title>117</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The western face of the Durncrag Mountains is a sheer wall of granite that rises over six thousand feet to a peak known as Mount <foreign xml:lang="x-giak">Lajakodak</foreign>. To attempt to scale this wall, especially at night and with little equipment, is a formidable and perilous task. For several hours, you search the scree-covered slopes in the hope of finding an old or disused trail, but with no success. You are on the brink of abandoning all hope of finding another route, and are about to return to the Giak outpost, when you chance upon the remains of a track that snakes its way towards an opening high in the rock wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, you can either climb the track and investigate the opening: <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">Or you can return to the Giak outpost and attempt to scale the wall: <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta>
- <title>118</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Kordak Duganok! Jatnar!</quote></foreign> squeals the Giak driver, waving his whip frantically in your direction. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ok zee dik zek kog lajakim!</quote></foreign></p>
- <p>The sharp-eyed Giak has spotted you among the boulders. At once the Drakkarim horsemen respond to his alarm; they spur their mounts to a gallop and come thundering towards you. Before you can attempt to escape, they have surrounded you, dismounted, and are stalking forward with their swords drawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta>
- <title>119</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A look of horror washes over the Drakkar's face as he sees you raise your bow and let loose your arrow at his head. Your shaft penetrates his forehead, and the force of the shot lifts him clear of the deck and knocks him flat on his back. Just then the first of his troops appear at the rail. For a moment they hesitate when they see their officer dead, but their shock soon turns to fury. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Shez dot got!</quote></foreign> they scream, and come thundering towards you with murder blazing in their eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to evade their attack, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you choose to stand your ground and receive their attack, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta>
- <title>120</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leading minions reach the end of the alley and turn to the south, following your footprints in the slime. One of them, a Liganim armed with a steel bow, draws an odd-shaped arrow from his quiver and takes aim at your back as you disappear rapidly along the smoky street. You hear the unmistakable hiss of an arrow in flight and instinctively you throw yourself to the ground. As you slide face-first along the filthy street, you feel an agonizing chill as the arrow penetrates your shoulder.</p>
- <p>You have been struck by a Zejar-dulaga, a magical arrow impregnated with a deadly poison. You try to stand but your legs feel incapable of supporting your weight and your vision swims in and out of focus.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta>
- <title>121</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the group manages to avoid the rain of deadly blows that slay his companions. He screams with terror, his mind unhinged by the fear of death. Like a wild animal he claws at your chest in his panic to get away and, by chance, he tears the Golden Amulet from the chain around your neck. Before you can stop him, he escapes along the tunnel, clutching it in his bloodstained claws.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="188" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="188" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, and have attained the Kai rank of Archmaster, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta>
- <title>122</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to fend off the speeding arrow, but it passes over your outstretched arm and lodges deep in your skull. For a split second you feel nothing. Then a starburst of pain rips through your head and a swirl of colour obliterates your vision as you pass swiftly into the timeless oblivion of death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta>
- <title>123</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your strength and Kai skill carry you over the gap and back safely to the start of the trail. Quickly you retrace your tracks to the Giak outpost, where you take cover and concentrate on finding a way to get past it.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta>
- <title>124</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you sense that you have stumbled into an area of the city that is the domain of Darklord Taktaal and his followers. You scan the shadows and windows and notice several pairs of watchful eyes regarding you with naked hatred. Slowly you back away from the square, but you have taken less than a dozen steps when a line of creatures begins to emerge from a doorway to your right. They growl menacingly, their feral eyes aglow with bloodlust.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta>
- <title>125</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly, as though awakening from a dream, you return to consciousness. Through half-open eyes you stare at a darkening sky and feel the cold waves of the Kaltesee lapping at your feet. Every inch of your body aches viciously&emdash;it is as if your flesh were one vast bruise&emdash;but at once you know that your body is intact and that, miraculously, you have escaped serious injury.</p>
- <p>You are lying in a cup-shaped piece of wreckage that was once part of the ironclad's bow. On the horizon there is now only one ship&emdash;the ironclad that first attacked the Intrepid. It is silhouetted against the wall of oily flame that marks the place where its sister craft exploded. The tide has carried you away from the carnage, and, turning your head stiffly, you see that the shore lies less than a hundred yards away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta>
- <title>126</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant stares at the gold coins and, without raising his head, he shouts a terse order to his troops: <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Jeg tok! Tok narg gaz dik!</quote></foreign> Like a herd of angry bulls, the Death Knights rush forward and surround you, their spears held ready to slay you should you show any sign of resisting.</p>
- <p>Cursing vilely, the sergeant drags you from the saddle and tears the battle-mask from your face. More guards appear, mostly armed with bows, which they train on you while the sergeant strips you of your weapons and equipment. Then, after tying your hands, they march you to their barracks where you are imprisoned in an empty, steel-walled cell and left alone to contemplate your fate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta>
- <title>127</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill, you magnify your vision and scan the buildings below. You see a maze of garbage-choked streets, rusting tenements, and squalid slave huts. All bear the effects of the corrosive atmosphere, except one building, which is situated near the centre of the city. It is a tower, tall and unbent, its surface free from any sign of decay.</p>
- <p>Confident that you have found where the Slavemaster resides, you bring the Zlanbeast in to land nearby. A Giak, his mouth hanging open in awe of your arrival, stands guard at the tower entrance. As you approach, he bows and stands aside, allowing you to enter the gloomy ground floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta>
- <title>128</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the sun-sword from its korlinium scabbard and instantly the blade is caressed by cool, golden flames. The Drakkar leader freezes in his tracks, his eyes bulging fit to burst as he stares with awe at the magical Sommerswerd.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="190" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="190" />
- </illustration>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Naog!</quote></foreign> he breathes, incredulously. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Gadajok-shezag! Aki-amaz! Okak naog gaj!</quote></foreign> He hesitates, then begins to retreat towards the rail. At this moment the first of his troops clamber on to the deck. Fearful of the consequences should he be branded a coward in their eyes, he shouts a battle-cry and commands them to attack.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Shez dot got!</quote></foreign> they scream, and come thundering towards you with murder blazing in their cruel, inhuman eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to evade their attack, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you decide to stand your ground and receive their attack, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta>
- <title>129</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your instructions, Captain Borse commands his helmsman to steer <quote>hard a' port</quote>, a manoeuvre that will take the Intrepid clear of the enemy line. Swiftly the ship changes course. You watch the Darkland ironclads looming larger with each passing minute, and note the formidable array of weapons aboard their steel-skinned decks. Huge, black funnels protrude from the middle of each craft, which emit clouds of choking, sulphurous smoke. As the Intrepid rounds the last ironclad in the line, this acrid smoke wafts across the water and engulfs the crew, causing them to cough and retch violently. The sound of their coughing alerts the enemy lookouts who immediately raise the alarm.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Darkland ironclads surge towards the <cite>Intrepid</cite>
- </description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="655"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="655"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly, a flash of blue-white light illuminates the bow of the ironclad and a fiery projectile arcs across the sky towards the Intrepid.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta>
- <title>130</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the passage for nearly an hour before you happen upon something that raises your flagging spirits. At a junction with two other tunnels your eye is drawn to a large emblem that has been chiselled skilfully out of the granite wall. It is a depiction of a snake's skull with two fly-like eyes, surrounded by a circle of fire. At once you recognize this carving: it is the personal emblem of Darklord Gnaag. You study the sign: it must mark the start of a tunnel that leads to the Imperial Sector of the city.</p>
- <p>With your pulse racing, you set off along the torchlit tunnel. You have not gone very far when you see that it ends at a large steel door, guarded by two monstrous creatures clad in heavy plate mail. A smaller door appears to your left, and, as you draw level with it, you reach out and turn its handle. The door is locked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you possess a Black Key, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you do not possess this Backpack Item, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta>
- <title>131</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain arches his back and screams in agony as your arrow drives deep into his spine. Immediately, two Drakkarim gunners rush forward to help him, but as soon as they realize that he is dead, they spin around to confront you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you have at least two arrows and wish to silence these Drakkarim, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you choose to draw a hand weapon and attack them before they can alert their shipmates, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta>
- <title>132</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding your breath, you unsheathe your weapon and press yourself to the cliff wall. You plan to take the approaching Giaks by surprise, cut your way through them to the summit, then escape before the pursuing group can catch up. It is a bold manoeuvre and one that does not allow for the night-sharp eyes and cruel cunning of the Giak commander. From his position atop the cliff he watches your every move.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Koga!</quote></foreign> he shouts, and both search parties freeze in their tracks. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Dulaga zaj!</quote></foreign> Suddenly there is a sound like rushing water, then a terrible pain rips through your chest as you are hit by a score of black arrows, fired by Giak archers kneeling at the edge of the cliff. You gasp for breath as a terrifying numbness spreads throughout your body. Although you fight to stay on your feet, you can no longer feel your legs. Stiffly you fall from the path and crash to your doom on the beach below.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here on the shores of the Darklands.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta>
- <title>133</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hand closes around the hilt of the black sword moments before Kraagenskûl's claw-tipped fingers rake the floor where it lay. You raise the blade and feel a surge of cold power run the length of your arm. It courses through your brain, willing you to attack the cowering Darklord and slaughter him unmercifully. This new-felt need to wallow in the killing of an enemy stirs you to a fearful rage. Desperately you draw on your inner strength to overcome this barbaric urge, and control it, as you prepare to fight with Darklord Kraagenskûl.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Kraagenskûl (without Helshezag)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">35</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the power of Helshezag&emdash;the weapon you now wield&emdash;add 7 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta>
- <title>134</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more the pit is cleared and the spectators settle down to enjoy another round of vicious hand-to-hand fighting. The next two combatants are poised to enter the ring and, in the light of what happened previously, they have both decided to ignore the gong and tear into each other as soon as their holding cage door slides open.</p>
- <p>Bets are about to be placed when the sound of a loud, intermittent whistle interrupts the proceedings: it is the signal that Helgedad has been sighted by the lookout. Some of the crowd leave their seats in order to view the Black City through the tiny portholes that line the walls of the gallery. With your heart pounding at the thought of seeing the Darkland's most infamous stronghold for the first time, you leave the pit and join them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta>
- <title>135</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you fight to stay on your feet, the beast bears down, tilting its head from side to side, revealing just a glimpse of your target. Guided by instinct alone you raise your bow and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add to this number any bow skill bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total is now 0&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta>
- <title>136</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your Kai skill to neutralize the deadly venom that is coursing through your veins. Swiftly your powers of healing overcome the poison, but at a cost of 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You prise the hideous creature off your head and hurl it to the floor, but no sooner has it hit the steel deck than it springs back at your face, forcing you to defend yourself.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Plaak</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge. Owing to the speed and shock of its attack, unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, you are unable to draw a weapon and must fight the first round of combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta>
- <title>137</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by starlight, you trek westwards through the pass until the need for food and rest forces you to stop. A brief search uncovers a shallow fissure in the mountain wall which offers a safe refuge for the night, and there you decide to grab a few hours' sleep before continuing to Argazad. You must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta>
- <title>138</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crystal shard emits a tinkling, bell-like sound, and the guard moves aside to allow you to enter the Tower of the Damned. He points to a column of bright blue light, descending from the darkness above, and tells you to step into its shimmering rays. You hesitate, and he laughs mockingly at your indecision.</p>
- <p><quote>Go on, step in. It's quicker than climbing the stairs.</quote> Your Kai senses tell you that the column is a beam of partial gravity, a transportation device that will draw you slowly towards the top of the tower.</p>
- <p>You step into the light and feel yourself rising. Minutes later, the sensation stops and you step from the beam into a huge, domed chamber. The polished walls and floor glisten like the mirrored surfaces of a black lake. The aura of evil hangs everywhere like a thick mist. It closes your throat and threatens to suffocate you. Your heart pounds loudly as you move towards a dais at the centre of the chamber, where a machine rests that matches the description of the Transfusor that Lord Rimoah gave you before leaving Toran. You reach for your Backpack, but before you can lift your robe and unshoulder it, the chamber is filled with a roaring growl.</p>
- <p><quote>What brings you here, vermin of Ghanesh?</quote></p>
- <p>It is the voice of Darklord Taktaal. From the shadows of an archway, he slithers towards the dais, his smooth, ice-white head swaying upon a fur-covered snake body, riddled with disease. Your stomach turns as you watch a muzzle distend from his face, then split open to reveal a row of razor-sharp fangs. Seemingly you are a lowly follower of his hated rival, Darklord Ghanesh, and you know that if you are to survive you must answer his command convincingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to tell him that you want to defect from Ghanesh's service, and serve him instead, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to tell him that you have secret information that could destroy Ghanesh, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta>
- <title>139</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knight sentinel stiffens and falls dead at your feet, his black armour and his black heart torn open by the force of your killing blow. A quick search of his body reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Pouch of Tobacco</li>
- <li>Bottle of Wine</li>
- <li>Pipe</li>
- <li>60 Kika (equivalent to 6 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Iron Key</li>
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above items, make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">To continue, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta>
- <title>140</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door lies a corridor that leads to a narrow hall of stone. Its ceiling, flat and undomed, is supported by thick columns that march in rows down the sides of the walls. Between the columns are plain steel doors, the largest one guarded by Death Knights. From the safety of the shadows you watch as this great door swings open and a man, swathed in a voluminous scarlet robe, emerges into the corridor. He speaks at length with the two guards, who depart in haste when he has finished, as if running an important errand. Beyond the great door you can see a flight of stairs ascending into darkness. The man in red watches the Death Knights leave, then turns and ascends the stairs hurriedly, leaving the great steel door ajar.</p>
- <p>Hoping that this staircase leads to the roof, you cross the corridor and follow the robed man, taking care not to be seen, as you stalk silently in his wake. Your Kai skills keep you hidden from view and enable you to gain entry to the chamber that occupies the entire top floor of this building. There you take cover behind one of many statues that encircle the floor, and witness a scene that chills you to the core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta>
- <title>141</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of mental power enables you to shield your mind from the psychic probe emanating from the box-like device that the guard is using to check your identity. Because of your effective mindshield, he is unable to detect any hostile psychic signals. Satisfied that it is safe to allow you to pass, he orders his fellow guard to open the steel door and let you into the subterranean levels of the Imperial Sector.</p>
- <p>Beyond the door is a vast hall filled with row upon row of fearsome weapons. It is the Imperial Armoury of Helgedad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you possess a Black Cube, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta>
- <title>142</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>What have we here?</quote> muses the captain warily, as he accepts your envelope. <quote>Guildmaster Banedon instructed me to deliver this into your charge as soon as we cleared the blockade,</quote> you reply. <quote>It contains confidential details about our voyage to Durenor.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I'm sure the matter can wait 'til morning,</quote> he says slipping the envelope into the pocket of his gold-braided jacket. <quote>You'd best get some sleep. We could be in for some rough weather come sunrise.</quote> You insist that he read the contents of the letter without delay but he dismisses your request with a flick of his calloused hand. <quote>It can wait. A few hours'll make no odds,</quote> he snaps, and he descends the stairs before you can argue otherwise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to accompany the first mate to your cabin, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you decide to stay on the forecastle with the lookouts, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta>
- <title>143</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In daylight, the trail is steep and treacherous, but in the cold, starlit darkness it is doubly so. Chunks of rock crumble underfoot and in many places there is simply no trail at all. Progress can only be made by inching yourself painfully across the sheer drops, using your fingers and what little of the ledge that remains. Eventually you reach the dark opening and enter with trepidation. A smooth, semicircular tunnel descends through the rock. The passage is lit faintly by an eerie ochre light, which is cast by clumps of bacteria that seem to thrive on the damp tunnel walls.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta>
- <title>144</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is another knock, this time more insistent, but when you do not open the door your uninvited visitor does not knock again. Tired and hungry, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before you settle down to sleep. You awake to the sound of a loud click, barely audible above the ever-present din of the Lajakeka's engine: your cabin door has just closed. Swiftly you rise and rush to the door, hoping to catch a glimpse of whoever, or whatever, gained access to your cabin while you slept.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta>
- <title>145</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect145-1-foot" idref="sect145-1">
- <p>This loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is permanent. (cf. <a href="&link.07cd;"><cite>Castle Death</cite></a> Section 129)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize the pungent aroma of Adgana leaves. Adgana is a powerful narcotic that increases strength and sharpens reflexes; it enhances fighting prowess when swallowed immediately prior to combat. There is sufficient Adgana in this pouch for one dose, which would be enough to increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 6 points for the duration of a fight.</p>
- <p>But be warned! Adgana is shunned by most warriors and its use is outlawed in Sommerlund because it is highly addictive. If you choose to keep and use this Dose of Adgana prior to combat, there is a chance that you could become addicted. As soon as combat is resolved, you must pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you pick is 0 or 1, you have become addicted and your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score must be reduced by 4 points immediately. <a id="sect145-1" idref="sect145-1-foot" class="footnote"/> If you have ever used Adgana in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, the risks of addiction are doubled should you decide to use this dose (you will become addicted if you pick a 0, 1, 2, or 3 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>). Also, the effects of the narcotic when used on a second or subsequent occasion are halved. You will be able to add only 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, instead of 6). If you decide to keep this Dose of Adgana, note the hazardous side effects of its use in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Sure that you have not overlooked any other items that could aid your perilous mission, you decide the time has come to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta>
- <title>146</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly after dawn has brightened the eastern horizon, the Drakkar warrior appears, riding his steed unhurriedly along the trail to Argazad. As he approaches, you get ready to launch your ambush.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not have a bow, or do not wish to use one, you must leap on the Drakkar as soon as he rides within range: <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta>
- <title>147</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two Vassagonians unsheathe their rapier-thin swords and advance towards you, secretly thankful that they are no longer the target of Kraagenskûl's wrath. The Darklord orders them to halt and demands that you step within the circle of the fiery pillars and explain your intrusion. You sense that he has not detected your true identity, that his psychic skills are solely destructive, and that he is, for now, deceived by your Drakkarim disguise.</p>
- <p><quote>I have come from the victorious army of Darklord Xog, the conqueror of Cloeasia, with vital information to impart, O Mighty Lord of Darkness,</quote> you say, slavishly. You speak partly in Vassagonian and partly in Giak to maintain your deception. <quote>There is a traitor in your court. He has tried to send word to the enemy, to warn them of what is being constructed in Argazad. I know who he is and I carry proof of his treachery.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Speak!</quote> commands Kraagenskûl. <quote>Speak or die!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I shall speak, O Invincible Lord of Death and Decay, but I crave your confidence. Can we not speak alone?</quote> You cast an accusing glance at the two Vassagonians, and they return your look with fear and hatred blazing in their eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>Leave us!</quote> snarls Kraagenskûl, pointing to the stairs with his jet-black blade, <quote>but stray no further than the hall below, and do not disturb us until I call for you.</quote></p>
- <p>Reluctantly, the Vassagonians leave, their heads bowed in reverence but their eyes still fixed murderously on you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta>
- <title>148</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar officer staggers and falls, clutching his wounds and cursing you with his dying breath. But no sooner has his body hit the planks than his troops come rushing towards you from all sides. <quote>Sez dot got!</quote> they scream, howling with primal fury, their teeth bared and their faces contorted with rage.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Marines</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta>
- <title>149</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you land on the Drakkar, you grab him in a head lock and drag him from the saddle. The force of your attack twists his neck awry and you hear a sharp crack a moment before you both strike the ground. Quickly you recover from the fall, draw a weapon, and jump on the prone warrior before he can get to his feet. But you soon discover that he is no longer a threat: your attack broke his neck and he was dead before his body hit the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta>
- <title>150</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A thousand feet below, at the heart of the chasm, a seething carpet of nightmare shapes crawl and slither amid rivers of molten rock. They appear to your horrified eyes to be writhing in perpetual agony, and your psychic senses confirm that this is the case: it is their pain, not their bodies, that feed this raging sea of supernatural flame.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="178" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="178" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The gates of the Black City open and the Lajakeka passes into this terrible realm of evil, along a vast avenue of steel, flanked by buildings of hellish grandeur and purpose. You can see red flames glaring at peaked gothic windows, and innumerable barred gates that appear like the grinning jaws of dragons. At length, the vehicle grinds to a halt at a place where a huge chute burrows deep into the ground. The crew make preparations to unload their cargo directly into this funnel-shaped hole whilst you and the other passengers disembark. With fear running ice-cold in your veins, you scan the fire-swept street and notice that all the other passengers are scurrying towards a tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you wish to follow them and enter the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you choose to avoid them and the tunnel, and prefer to explore the street, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta>
- <title>151</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Intrepid responds to the wheel, and, as the wind fills out her sails, she begins to pull away from the first ironclad. Your hopes rise but they are soon dashed when a jolt runs through the deck and she rolls back towards the enemy vessel. Then you see why you cannot escape.</p>
- <p><quote>Davan! Quick, have your men cut the grappling lines!</quote> you shout. Immediately he urges his men to carry out your command. Anxiously you watch as the second ironclad bears down on the stern with unnerving speed. The lines are soon severed and you feel the ship swing about, yet the enemy craft is almost upon you, its deck crammed with more troops, poised to leap aboard. Suddenly it hits the rear quarter, and you are knocked down by the shock. The screech of tortured metal and the crack of splintering wood fill the air, yet the deck soon rights itself and you are able to regain control of the helm. Despite the shock of impact and the fearful noise, the enemy craft has only glanced the bow, its steel-tipped ram missing the rudder by just a few feet. It scrapes alongside before veering away amid a cloud of foul, yellow smoke.</p>
- <p>The crew cheer and the Drakkarim marines falter as they watch their vessels slipping away to the stern. The battle on board turns in your favour, and, as Davan and his men press their advantage, you feel sure that the Intrepid will make a successful escape along the coast.</p>
- <p>Within the space of a few minutes your confidence is shattered anew by an unexpected attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74"><link-text>Turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta>
- <title>152</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swiftness of your reactions, and the degree of psychic mastery you have attained, save you from sustaining any injury to your central nervous system. Rapidly the shock fades, leaving you alert and ready to face Darklord Kraagenskûl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta>
- <title>153</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature thrashes the last of its death-throes, then falls silent, Its great bulk all but filling the entrance to the cave. The stench of spilt blood, and the greasy, dirt-encrusted hair that covers its torso, makes your stomach churn. Yet the Egorgh's body is serving a useful purpose. Not only is it keeping the icy cold wind and rain at bay, but any other creature wanting to attack you would have great difficulty entering the cave. Confident that you are unlikely to be disturbed again, you settle down to a much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta>
- <title>154</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the Slavemaster into a chamber filled with marvellous treasures, furniture, and rich trappings, which seem anachronistic here in this foul city. He advises you to take off your Drakkar armour and wear instead a hooded robe woven from a strange, silver-grey material. He comments favourably on the Golden Amulet you wear, assuring you that its protection will be essential for your survival in Helgedad. As you are about to don the robe, he insists that you wear your Backpack underneath it. <quote>The creature who donated this garment, albeit it reluctantly, was tall but possessed a severely crooked spine. In order to gain entry to Helgedad you must pretend to be that creature. The pack will help to complete your disguise.</quote></p>
- <p>You ask the identity of the creature, and what has become of him. <quote>He was one of the Liganim, those who assist the Nadziranim sorcerers with their black arts,</quote> replies the Slavemaster. <quote>This particular Liganim came here to Aarnak to fetch a quantity of special grade ore for his master's experiments, but the unfortunate creature met with a fatal accident, here in this very chamber.</quote> The trace of a smile on the Slavemaster's face suggests that the accident may not have been quite so accidental.</p>
- <p><quote>How am I to get into Helgedad?</quote> you ask, hoping he has planned for this as well.</p>
- <p><quote>You will be told in good time, but first I must give you some other information that is vital to the success of your quest.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta>
- <title>155</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of heavy footfalls and vile curses alert you to a group of marines who are charging along the deck, drawn by their comrade's dying scream. They see him fall dead at your feet and, in a rage, the leading warrior hurls his sword at your head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If your total is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If it is 3&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta>
- <title>156</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The screams of your pursuers are growing louder with every passing second. Fearful that they will alert the guard to your presence, you unsheathe a hand weapon and stalk forward, grimly determined to slay the robed creature as quickly and quietly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you have not completed this Lore-circle of the Magnakai, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta>
- <title>157</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After following the coastline northwards for an hour, you happen upon a narrow path that rises from the beach and zig-zags up to the top of the cliffs. The path appears deserted, and you decide to use it rather than risk being caught by the rising tide.</p>
- <p>The climb to the top is long and arduous and by the time you reach the peak, the weather has taken a turn for the worse. An icy, rain-laden wind whips inland from the sea, its chilling bite accompanied by sheet lightning that illuminates the stark landscape before you. The blue-white flash reveals a vast, dead world of pitted spurs and crags, where every tree is petrified and every rock looks like a dead man's skull. You pull your warm cape close about your shoulders and set off towards a ridge that is peppered with dark hollows. You pray that one of them will offer some shelter from the coming storm.</p>
- <p>Upon reaching the ridge, you discover that most of the hollows are merely patches of dark earth sandwiched between the honeycombed rock. The rain has become torrential, and you are about to abandon all hope of finding dry shelter, when suddenly your tracking instincts alert you to a cave-like opening at the far end of the ridge. You investigate and discover that it is indeed the entrance to a cave, one that is both wind- and watertight and, to your relief, quite empty. You are now very hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and Divination, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you do not possess both these skills, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta>
- <title>158</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Alerted by the Zlanbeast's wild screech, the Death Knight spins around and catches your blow on the haft of his spear. Sparks and curses fly. Growling like an angry lion, he pushes you away then stabs viciously at your midriff. Ice-cool nerve and fleetness of foot save you from the razor-sharp tip, and quickly you return the strike, forcing the Drakkar back to the edge of the parapet with the speed and determination of your attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Death Knight stabs viciously at your midriff</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="689"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="689"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Death Knight Sentinel</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta>
- <title>159</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect159-1-foot" idref="sect159-1">
- <p>The Bronin Vest may be worn with a Padded Leather Waistcoat, but not with a Chainmail Waistcoat.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shock, as a result of his severe leg injuries, has reduced the captain's blood pressure to a dangerously low level. Your mastery of the Discipline of Curing enables you to increase his blood pressure gently to ensure that his brain is not starved of its vital supply of oxygen. Once he is stable, the first mate, whose name is Davan, helps you splint the captain's legs and construct a makeshift stretcher on which to carry him to his cabin. Slowly he regains consciousness, and, although he is in great pain, he insists on speaking.</p>
- <p><quote>Davan,</quote> he says, through gritted teeth, <quote>the ship's under your command now. You must do all you can to see that our passenger reaches his destination.</quote> Dutifully, the first mate promises to obey the captain's order. <quote>Open the chest,</quote> the captain says, motioning with his eyes to a large casket, resting at the foot of his bunk. You oblige and discover that it contains a vest made of finely crafted bronin chainmail, and a pair of engraved silver bracers designed to protect the forearms during combat. <quote>Take them, friend,</quote> he says, <quote>they may be of some help to you on your journey.</quote></p>
- <p>The Bronin Vest adds 3 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and 1 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. <a id="sect159-1" idref="sect159-1-foot" class="footnote"/> The Silver Bracers add 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and 1 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. If you wish to keep either (or both) the Bronin Vest or the Silver Bracers, mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Special Items, which you wear accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262"><link-text>Turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta>
- <title>160</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At your approach, the Liganim slows and makes a sign in the air with his warty hand. When you fail to respond, he becomes agitated and moves directly in front of you to block your way. A tingling sensation ripples your scalp as a wave of psychic energy washes over your mind. The Liganim has probed your thoughts and discovered that you are an imposter. He emits a high-pitched shriek and unsheathes a dagger from his belt as he launches himself maniacally at your chest.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Liganim</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point at the beginning of every round of combat, owing to the Liganim's persistent psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta>
- <title>161</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shaking your head, you pull yourself to your feet and force your eyes to focus on the swirling shapes that are looming Out of the shadows. Four ugly Giaks are creeping towards you, each with a loaded bow held ready to fire. They let loose their arrows and instantly you throw yourself back on to the ground. Your reactions save you from the deadly shafts, and you scramble quickly to your feet, unsheathing a weapon. You catch the enemy wrong-footed and without their swords to hand.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Giak Archers</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">14</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta>
- <title>162</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect162-1-foot" idref="sect162-1">
- <p>Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zlanbeast glides through the rising steam and lands smoothly beside the foundry's rusty wall. The air, or what passes for air in this doom-laden city, reeks of iron and soot, and, as you jump from the saddle, you discover that the ground is covered with a layer of soot several inches deep.</p>
- <p>On a ramp that services the foundry, a line of stunted, lizard-like bipeds are hauling heavy carts full of ore. They are watched by Giaks who encourage them with kicks and curses whenever they falter. A Giak officer and two of his troops leave the ramp as soon as they see you land and come scurrying towards you. The officer is shouting at the top of his voice. You sense that he suspects you have stolen the Zlanbeast and is demanding that you explain, on pain of death!</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you have any Kika, <a id="sect162-1" idref="sect162-1-foot" class="footnote"/> and wish to offer them to the Giak as a bribe for safe escort to the Slavemaster, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you wish to ignore his threats and demand that he take you to the Slavemaster, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta>
- <title>163</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses alert you to the magical chainmail armour that the Drakkar warrior is wearing beneath his leather battle-jacket. He can see that you are aiming your arrow at his heart and he is confident that his armour will protect him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to switch targets and aim instead at his head, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you choose to shoulder your bow and meet his attack with a hand weapon, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta>
- <title>164</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No sooner has the last of your enemies fallen than you sense that more of them are about to emerge from the surrounding towers. There is no time to search the bodies of the slain&emdash;to stay would be suicidal. Without hesitation, you turn on your heel and run for all you are worth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta>
- <title>165</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly after dawn, a howling wind awakens you from your dreamless slumber. It sweeps along the pass from the west, carrying with it the briny smell of the sea. Resolutely you continue your trek, following the roadway through the pass until, at midday, you emerge from the mountains at a point that commands a clear view over the land beyond. There you stop and stare at an expanse of rocky terrain so fragmented that it might have been smashed by a giant hammer. It slopes down to the shores of a wide inlet&emdash;the Gulf of Helenag&emdash;where a line of Darkland ironclads are steaming northwards on their way to join the blockade. From where you are, they appear no larger than tiny black specks dotting the steel-grey sea, but the clouds of yellow smoke that pour from their funnels clearly identify them as enemy ships.</p>
- <p>The track continues, snaking southwards across the barren landscape on its way to Argazad. For three hours you tread its uneven surface until you arrive at what appears to be the ruins of an ancient tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination and have attained the Kai rank of Mentora or higher, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta>
- <title>166</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Three months ago, on the day that you Sommlending celebrate your Feast of Fehmarn, I foresaw in a dream your return to this world, the place and the hour of your coming,</quote> says Rimoah, reverently. <quote>I, and all my brothers, held this dream to be a sign from the god Kai that you had not died at Torgar, and since that day we have prepared for your return so that we may help you fulfil your vow and deliver us all from the tyranny of the Darklords. With the aid of Guildmaster Banedon we have conceived a plan that can secure a lasting victory. Defeat of the Darklords on the field of battle is now impossible; the allied armies are greatly outnumbered and are hard-pressed to protect what little remains of the freelands. The only way in which we can rid ourselves of this evil is by destroying Gnaag and the Transfusor&emdash;the device that transmits power to the Tanoz-tukor. Both of them are in Helgedad.</quote></p>
- <p>To hear the name of that foul city spoken aloud is enough to send a shiver down your spine, and the thought of daring to venture there to destroy its ruler fills you with cold dread. <quote>It is a daunting task that we ask you to attempt, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Banedon, sensing your anxiety, <quote>but only you have any hope of succeeding in this desperate mission. It may be of some comfort to learn that, with the Darklords leading their armies in the field, the defences of the Black City are now at their weakest. Only Gnaag and his second-in-command, Darklord Taktaal, reside there at present.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You spoke of a plan?</quote> you say, returning your gaze to the wise face of Lord Rimoah. Without replying, he bends down and pulls out a leather sack from beneath the chair on which he sat when you entered the chamber. It contains what appears to be a mass of triangular crystals that are fused together. At once you recognize its purpose. It is a powerful charge, similar to the one which Lord Adamas used to destroy the Torgar Gate.</p>
- <p><quote>This will put paid to the Transfusor,</quote> says Rimoah, holding up the crystal explosive. He points to a shard that is longer than the others and informs you that the device is activated by withdrawing and re-inserting it tip-first into the core. <quote>It must be placed beneath the Transfusor and it will detonate exactly fifteen minutes after it is primed.</quote> Carefully he replaces the explosive into the sack and offers it to you.</p>
- <p><quote>But how am I to gain entry to Helgedad?</quote> you ask, as you accept the deadly package tentatively.</p>
- <p><quote>We have made preparations,</quote> answers Banedon, pointing once more to the map. <quote>A caravel is anchored in Toran harbour. Under cover of darkness it will run the blockade, then head east to deceive the enemy into thinking that it is bound for Durenor. When safe to do so it will turn about and steer a course for Dejkaata. The shallows there are free of pack-ice at this time of the year and the captain should be able to land you on the coast close to the Aarnak Estuary. From there you must make your way on foot to the stronghold of Aarnak and seek out the Slavemaster. He is one of our agents and can be trusted. Make yourself known to him by saying the words, <quote>Sommerlund is burning</quote>. He alone knows where in Helgedad the Transfusor is located, and he can arrange for your safe and secret passage into the city. Once inside, you must destroy Gnaag and the Transfusor as quickly as possible.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And once the task is complete, how then do I effect an escape?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>You must make your way back to Aarnak. The demise of the Darklords will announce the success of your mission and we shall then mount an expedition to bring you safely home. But until then, no one must know your true identity, or the reason for your journey to Helgedad.</quote></p>
- <p>Silently you contemplate the awesomeness of this mission, its dangers, and the terrible consequences that will befall Magnamund should you fail. At length you raise your eyes from the map and force a smile. <quote>When must I leave?</quote> you ask, bravely.</p>
- <p><quote>Tomorrow night,</quote> Banedon replies. <quote>An hour after sunset.</quote></p>
- <p>Mark the Crystal Explosive on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special hem that you carry strapped to your Backpack. If you already carry the maximum number of Special Items, you must discard one in favour of the Crystal Explosive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta>
- <title>167</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knight sergeant strides forward and repeats his command. When you fail to answer, he reaches up, grabs the front of your leather battle-jacket, and pulls you to within inches of his sneering face. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Egor sheg!</quote></foreign> he growls, and tilts your mask back with the palm of his gloved hand. Using your advanced Kai skill, you cause your face to take on the coarse features of a Drakkarim warrior. The sergeant nods, a look of recognition softening his cruel eyes, then releases his grip of your jacket.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Agna tok!</quote></foreign> he says, turning to face his guards. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Dok lug shad.</quote></foreign> They stand aside and quickly you ride through the gate. A shadowy street lies beyond, at the end of which is a sign that indicates the way to the two main areas of the base: the ironclad harbour and the supply depot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to investigate the harbour, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to investigate the supply depot, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta>
- <title>168</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, without warning, the Darklord emits a hideous screech that fills your head with a terrible stabbing pain. Your mind is under attack from a powerful wave of psychic energy that is capable of destroying your free will.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, and have reached the Kai rank of Scion-kai or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta>
- <title>169</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you move away from the door, raising the hood of your cape to hide your face. Beyond the wheelhouse you see a large tube of steel, mounted horizontally on a circular platform. It is attended by three Drakkarim, who are busily loading a heavy, pear-shaped projectile into a chamber at the rear of the tube. A large, wooden crate, filled with several more projectiles, lies open at their feet. Their captain, his rank denoted by the silver braid that decorates the sleeves of his battle-jacket, is pointing to the sinking Intrepid and shouting excitedly; <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Gaz muzar ok ruzzar! Shadaegina gag!</quote></foreign></p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess the Magnakai Disciplines of Invisibility and Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you do not possess both these skills, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta>
- <title>170</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel grows darker and dirtier the further down it you venture. You are beginning to suspect that you have entered an abandoned passage when the unmistakable stench of decaying meat wafts past you on a sulphurous breeze. Then two misshapen creatures loom out of the darkness, and your stomach churns at the sight of their hideously swollen faces. Their eyes are slits, the lids sewn down against the putrid flesh of their cheeks by lengths of coarse, black thread. They stagger towards you, their hooked claws scrabbling the air and their long, snake-like tongues flickering from their lipless mouths as hungrily they savour the scent of your flesh.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Two misshapen Helgedad Ghouls<br />loom out of the darkness</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="595"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="595"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Helgedad Ghouls</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta>
- <title>171</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you draw the dagger from your belt, a blue flame courses the length of its twisted blade and the squealing flood of Crypt Spawn soar upward towards the roof in order to avoid you. They and their creator, Darklord Kraagenskûl, recognize the power you wield and both are in awe and terror of it. Freed from the threat of his loathsome summonations, you now advance upon Kraagenskûl with the dagger before you. He screams in anger and lunges at your head, his sword ablaze with tongues of black fire. You catch the blow on the tip of the dagger and both blades spark furiously as their terrible powers collide.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Kraagenskûl</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). You may add 7 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of the fight, owing to the power of the Dagger of Vashna when used against a Darklord of Helgedad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta>
- <title>172</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, with an ear-splitting crack, the timbers of the main deck collapse and you feel yourself falling headlong into the bowels of the ship. The bulkheads, severely weakened during the Xargath's attack, have finally given way beneath the weight of fighting men and dropped you all into the cargo hold below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 equals 10). If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, deduct 2 from the number you have picked. The final number represents the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost due to injuries sustained in the fall. Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta>
- <title>173</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill enables you to escape without leaving any tracks upon the slime-covered streets for your pursuers to follow. When they reach the junction, they cannot be sure in which direction you ran. The minutes lost in indecision give you time to escape from their clutches.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48"><link-text>Turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta>
- <title>174</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Night has fallen swiftly, but there is a full moon by which to see. It pierces the darkness and bathes the landscape in its ghostly, ashen light. The tide bears you swiftly towards a shingle beach that is littered with huge, sea-smoothed boulders. The crashing surf and the screech of predatory seabirds echo all along this barren coastline. It is an unwelcoming sound, cold and hostile, a fitting reflection of the land itself.</p>
- <p>Ten yards from the stony beach, you slip into the thigh-deep foam and wade ashore. Although you can see no sign of enemy patrols, you keep your head low as you scurry up the beach towards the base of a sheer cliff wall. By chance you happen upon a narrow path that clings precariously to the side of the cliff-face as it zig-zags its way to the top. The climb is long and arduous, and by the time you reach the summit the weather has taken a turn for the worse. An icy, rain-laden wind whips inland from the sea. Its chilling bite is accompanied by sheet lightning that illuminates the landscape before you. The blue-white flashes reveal a vast, dead world of pitted spurs and crags, where every tree is petrified and every rock looks like a dead man's skull. You pull your cape close about your shoulders and set off towards a ridge that is peppered with dark hollows, hoping that one of them will offer some shelter from the coming storm.</p>
- <p>Upon reaching the ridge, you discover that most of the hollows are merely patches of dark earth sandwiched between the honeycombed rock. The rain has become torrential, and you are beginning to abandon all hope of finding dry shelter, when suddenly your tracking instincts alert you to a cave-like opening at the far end of the ridge. You investigate and discover that it is indeed the entrance to a cave, one that is both wind and water tight and, to your relief, quite empty. You are now very hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you have the Magnakai Disciplines of Animal Control and Divination, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you do not possess both these skills, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta>
- <title>175</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With unexpected speed, the Drakkar jumps to his feet and draws his saw-edged sword. He spits the dust from his mouth and growls a curse as he makes ready to strike a blow at your head.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta>
- <title>176</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You know that if you are to destroy this powerful enemy, you must strike quickly and effectively, before he has a chance to retaliate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you have the Sommerswerd, and wish to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you possess either the Dagger of Vashna or the sword Helshezag and wish to use either of them, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you have a bow and a Zejar-dulaga arrow, and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you have none of the above Special Items (or choose not to use them), you can draw a hand weapon: <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta>
- <title>177</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill, you cause the flames to flicker and die before you sustain any serious burns. Your advanced Discipline also protects you from the smoke and fumes given off by the smouldering canvas, and enables you to crawl from under the fallen sails uninjured.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta>
- <title>178</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like a shadow, you glide towards the Death Knight, your weapon poised to strike him down, but, just as you are closing for the kill, the Zlanbeast lets out a piercing caw of alarm.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Fire and the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 1 to this number. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If your total is now 0&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta>
- <title>179</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect179-1-foot" idref="sect179-1">
- <p>You may still risk taking the Black Cube if you wish.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the Black Cube to be a Nadziranim power crystal, an explosive device that can only be activated by creatures of the Darklands. Were you to take this item, it is possible that it could detonate and kill you at any time. <a id="sect179-1" idref="sect179-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect263">To continue, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta>
- <title>180</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The missile is directly above the Intrepid when it explodes with a deafening roar. The blast slams you to the deck and, as you struggle to your feet, white-hot fragments of metal rain down upon you. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance 0 equals 10). The number you have picked represents the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost due to shrapnel wounds.</p>
- <p>Amid the noise and chaos, you hear Captain Borse's strident voice, issuing commands to his shell-shocked crew. Despite the fearful blast, there are miraculously few casualties and the ship is soon brought under control. The topsails, ignited by the flash, are quickly cut away and jettisoned as the enemy vessels begin to close in for the kill. They turn to bring their weapons to bear, but the heavy, iron ships are slow and cumbersome, and, by the time they have changed formation, the Intrepid is out of range and sailing at speed into the dark waters of the Kaltesee.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta>
- <title>181</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The explosion has caused havoc aboard the Intrepid. Men run howling across the decks, their clothes and hair ablaze, as swiftly the fire spreads throughout the ship. <quote>Save yourselves!</quote> cries Davan. <quote>Abandon ship!</quote></p>
- <p>You run to the deck rail, and, as you look along the beam, you see scores of men&emdash;Drakkarim and Sommlending alike&emdash;hurling themselves into the cold, dark waters of the Kaltesee rather than perish amid the roaring holocaust of flame.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, Pathsmanship, or Divination, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you possess none of these skills, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta>
- <title>182</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giak wagon has drawn to a halt nearby, its driver and his companion eagerly awaiting the return of their escort. They are sniggering and discussing in detail all the hideous tortures they will inflict on you should the Drakkarim manage to capture you alive. So engrossed are they in their bloodthirsty talk that they fail to notice you creeping up on them until it is too late. Swiftly you silence the driver and turn in an instant to strike his companion. Miraculously, however, he manages to parry your blow on the shaft of his spear.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Giak Wagon-guard</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">16</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">19</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta>
- <title>183</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The icy cold winds blowing inland off the Kaltesee grow fiercer with every passing hour. Billowing black storm clouds mask the moon and plunge the land into an inky darkness that makes your search for shelter increasingly difficult. Only the steady flash of sheet lightning affords you any assistance. After three hours of fruitless search you resign yourself to spending a cold, wet, and throughly miserable night crouching at the bottom of a shallow gully, with your cape pulled tent-like over your head to fend off the relentless rain. Owing to the cold, your fatigue and lack of sleep, your night in the open costs you 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta>
- <title>184</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect184-1-foot" idref="sect184-1">
- <p>Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you follow the sycophantic creature along the corridor and up a flight of iron stairs to the deck level above, you ponder the name he called you&emdash;Cagath. No doubt it was the name of the Liganim whose identity you have taken on as a disguise. (Make a note of this name in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. It could prove useful at a later stage of your adventure.)</p>
- <p>A strange scene awaits you in the large, cylindrical chamber that is the gallery. At the centre of this steel hall, used by the Lajakeka's passengers as a meeting place and gambling den, there is a square pit some fifteen feet deep. On tiered seats that encircle the pit sit a motley group of creatures, some of whose features you recognize: Liganim, Nadziranim, Giak ore-masters, and a dozen or so whose origins are a mystery to you. They are all cheering or bawling obscenities at two bulky pit fighters, who are locked in hand-to-hand combat below. The fight ends abruptly with the beheading of one combatant, and the pit is cleared quickly whilst old bets are claimed and new ones are laid on the next bout. Into the gore-stained pit step two new fighters: an orange-skinned reptilian armed with a spiked club, and a blue-skinned humanoid wielding a ball and chain. Giak crew pass along the tiers collecting bets. One of them appears at your side and tugs your sleeve. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ak nart gug?</quote></foreign> he growls, waving a wad of orange and blue slips of hide, as he tries to tempt you to place a bet.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>An orange-skinned reptilian and a blue-skinned<br />humanoid step into the gore-stained pit</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="622"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="622"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you have any Kika <a id="sect184-1" idref="sect184-1-foot" class="footnote"/> and wish to bet on one of the pit fighters, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you do not possess any Kika, or do not wish to bet on the outcome of the fight, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta>
- <title>185</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The limb wavers, then, hesitantly, it falls back to the edge of the abyss. With an arrow drawn to your lips you watch it retreat, your eye focused along the shaft at a point near the middle of the velvety black tendril. It continues to withdraw, then, as the tip is about to disappear from sight, there is a deafening screech. Suddenly a huge shape explodes from the crevasse, rising at such speed that its features are a blur. Instinctively you aim at the centre of this bulbous black form, and send your shaft whistling to meet its lightning-fast attack. The arrow strikes, and the creature screeches again&emdash;this time in pain.</p>
- <p>You dive to the floor to avoid being hit by this howling horror, but it skims your scalp before slamming into the cavern wall. You glance back, expecting to see it slumped lifelessly on the floor, but to your surprise you see that it is still moving. Like a punctured balloon, it rebounds from the wall, then soars in a spiral towards the roof. There it is impaled on a cluster of stalactites that crack and give way under the impact of its vast weight. For a fleeting second you glimpse its ghastly features&emdash;its pear-shaped horny head and bulb-tipped antennae&emdash;before it plummets for the last time into the coal-black depths of the crevasse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta>
- <title>186</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tell you that the most vulnerable parts of the Xargath's head are its ears: the wall of the creature's skull is thinnest near the ear canals. Penetrate its ear with an arrow, and it could pass straight through the skull and enter its brain.</p>
- <p>The Xargath roars and a gale of putrid breath tears at your face and clothing, forcing you away from the longboat. As you fight to stay on your feet, the beast bears down, tilting its head from side to side, revealing just a glimpse of your chosen target. Guided by instinct alone you raise your bow and fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add to it any bow skill bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total is now 0&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta>
- <title>187</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect187-1-foot" idref="sect187-1">
- <p>The Zejar-dulaga occupies the same space in your quiver as a normal arrow. If you have 6 arrows, you may discard one in favour of the Zejar-dulaga.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rod is a Zejar-dulaga, a poisonous arrow imbued with magical accuracy. If you wish to turn off the power and take this Zejar-dulaga, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, which you carry in your quiver. <a id="sect187-1" idref="sect187-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="203" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="203" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Having satisfied yourself that there is nothing else of practical use in this laboratory, you decide to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to leave the laboratory by the door located behind the bench, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you decide to re-enter the corridor and approach the guards, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta>
- <title>188</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your curiosity is aroused by the pouch of herbs you have discovered in the belt pouch of the dead Drakkar officer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, or have reached the Kai rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta>
- <title>189</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attempts at deceiving this élite Drakkar warrior are met with a sneer of contempt. Cursing you as an imposter, he thrusts his spear at your face in an attempt to gouge out your tongue. You cannot evade combat and must fight your adversary to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Death Knight Sentinel</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta>
- <title>190</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling makes the guard nervous&emdash;he shuffles uneasily and holds his iron stave defensively, as if expecting an attack at any moment. Yet, despite his alertness, he does not see you approaching until the very last moment, by which time it is too late to avoid your first blow. You deal him a grievous wound to the neck which sends him reeling, yet he recovers quickly and comes staggering towards you, his stave now ablaze with blue fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you do not possess this Special Item, or choose not to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta>
- <title>191</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After searching the ruins and finding nothing of practical use, you continue your lonely trek along the Argazad trail. For the most part, it runs parallel to the coast and is exposed to strong gusts of icy air that whip across the gulf. You find yourself having to lean into these sleet-tinged winds in order to remain upright. It is a tiring ordeal, and, as dusk begins to darken the sky, you welcome the chance to stop and rest.</p>
- <p>You have just located a windproof niche in the lee of a rocky crag, and are about to settle down and rest, when you notice something moving towards you along the trail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Principalin or higher, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta>
- <title>192</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Xargath roars like a demon, and a gale of blood-soaked breath whips your face and body, forcing you to lean into the blast in order to stay on your feet. The huge mouth descends, and your stomach churns when you see the grim remains of Sommlending sailors. Steeling yourself, you raise the sun-sword and prepare to strike out at the beast's ghastly maw.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Xargath</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">100</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta>
- <title>193</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The screams of your pursuers grow louder with each passing second. Your pulse quickens and you release your arrow before you are sure of your target. The shaft arcs through the darkness and strikes the creature a glancing wound to his shoulder, causing him to yelp in pained surprise.</p>
- <p>Fearful that his cry will alert those who are following you, you shoulder your bow hurriedly, draw a hand weapon, and run at the guard, grimly determined to finish him before he raises the alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it to slay this creature, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you do not possess this Special Item, or choose not to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta>
- <title>194</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the water with a mighty splash, and sink like a stone beneath the icy cold waves, yet the sudden shock serves to revive your battle-weary muscles and quickly you strike out for the surface. You emerge from the depths beside the hull of the enemy ironclad, which is slowly pulling away from the wreck of the Intrepid. The heads of the rivets, which protrude all along its steel bow, offer a secure handhold for your numb fingers and enable you to drag yourself on to the shallow deck. You have barely caught your breath when a Drakkar sailor, armed with a billhook, rushes forward and lunges at your head.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Sailor</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for the first round of this fight, owing to the surprise of your enemy's attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta>
- <title>195</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slay the last of the deadly Crypt Spawn and stagger back, wiping their gore from your stinging eyes. As your vision clears, to your horror you see Kraagenskûl bending over a bowl that rests on a plinth beside his throne. It is filled with a silvery liquid, and at once you recognize its purpose: it is a communicator, a device through which he can converse with his leader, Darklord Gnaag. The Sommerswerd has betrayed your identity, and Kraagenskûl is warning Gnaag of your presence here in Argazad.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="200" />
- </illustration>
- <p>With your heart pounding, you race across the chamber and kick the bowl from its plinth, destroying the image of Gnaag, that floats upon its shiny surface. Kraagenskûl screams in anger and lunges at your head, his sword now ablaze with tongues of black fire. You parry the blow and the two blades hiss furiously as their awesome power collides.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Kraagenskûl</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta>
- <title>196</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track and the stream wind their way towards a narrow gap in the Durncrag Range. Fixedly you stare at this gap. The longer you gaze, the more certain you are that it is a mountain pass, allowing the path to continue through to Argazad. You decide to press on and traverse the pass. Hopefully, the track will lead to the naval base where you can attempt to steal, or stow away on, some means of transport that will carry you to Aarnak. The naval base must receive equipment from a Darkland city-fortress, and it is likely that Aarnak is one such source of supply.</p>
- <p>It is nearly dusk when the stony path reaches the narrow, boulder-strewn approach to the pass. It has been a long and tiring trek, yet in spite of your fatigue your senses warn you in good time of the danger that lies ahead. The pass is blocked by a wall and a stone watchtower, both guarded by Giak soldiers. Carefully you leave the path and creep along the bank of the stream, remaining hidden from view as slowly you edge your way nearer to the Giak outpost. An iron-banded gate in the centre of the wall allows traffic to use the pass, but it is closed and guarded by sentries. As dusk turns to darkness, you continue to observe every detail of the outpost and the surrounding mountains, in the hope of finding a way through.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="197" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="197" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you wish to attempt to scale the wall, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you decide to avoid the outpost and search for an alternative route across the mountains, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta>
- <title>197</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fighting back your fear, you set off along the soot-encrusted street, keeping your head down and your shoulders forward to maintain your balance against the blasts of fiery wind that lash you mercilessly. At one corner, you happen upon a line of shallow pits, all filled with blazing oil. In the middle of each one is a pyramid of stone, festooned with chains, to which are manacled a dozen wretched creatures. They stand waist-deep in the flames, and, as they scream in pain, a group of Giaks amuse themselves by pushing them under with the hafts of their spears.</p>
- <p>The Giaks are preoccupied with their cruel sport and you evade them easily. You continue along the street opposite the torture pits and arrive at a square flanked by four tall towers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, and have reached the rank of Archmaster, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta>
- <title>198</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using a Kai wrestling break to free yourself, you spin around and drive your clenched fist towards the face of your attacker. But before your blow connects with his chin, the ship gives a sudden lurch and you are both thrown to the floor. Your enemy lands on top of you and immediately closes his hands around your throat in an attempt to crush your windpipe.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Because of the situation, you are unable to draw a hand weapon and must fight this combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta>
- <title>199</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The noise and fury of your combat alerts two guard patrols, one at either end of the corridor. They rush to investigate, and, when they see what you have done, they seal off the corridor and sound a general alarm. Within minutes, the tunnels are filled with snarling, snapping, screaming horrors. The guards then open the corridor and set them upon you.</p>
- <p>You fight valiantly, slaying many before you are eventually overwhelmed and taken in chains before Darklord Gnaag. With cruel glee, he orders you to be cast into the Lake of Blood, where your endless suffering will feed its unholy flames for all eternity.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your natural life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta>
- <title>200</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect200-1-foot" idref="sect200-1">
- <p>If you only possess the Kai Discipline of Hunting&emdash;not Huntmastery&emdash;you may no longer hunt for food as you venture deeper into the Darklands.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is nearing the hour of sunset when you set eyes on the naval base of Argazad. <a id="sect200-1" idref="sect200-1-foot" class="footnote"/> It nestles in the curve of a cliff&emdash;a natural harbour, protected from the pounding waters of the Helenag by a long promontory of rock. This wall-like barrier serves as a quay for more than fifty ironclad warships, the evil armada that is slowly strangling your country. Along the quay, huddled in the shadow of the surrounding cliffs, are a host of grim grey buildings, newly constructed from iron and stone. Their greasy windows flare with the orange light of fires that roar within, warming the Drakkarim sailors and marines who crew the Darklands' fleet.</p>
- <p>Before entering the base, the trail joins a highway that approaches Argazad from the south. You stop to consult your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover that this road leads to the city-fortresses of Kaag and Aarnak. You consider avoiding the naval base and riding to Aarnak, but soon dismiss the idea. The journey would take you across the Naogizaga, one of the most desolate wastelands in all of Magnamund. Even if you could survive the heat, the dust, and the hellish creatures that dominate that grey desert, your mount would be sure to perish for lack of food and water.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="169" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="169" />
- </illustration>
- <p>A wall of stones, surmounted by an unbroken coil of razor-sharp wire, encircles the naval base. There is only one way through this perimeter wall&emdash;a gate that is guarded by a squad of Death Knights, the élite of the Drakkarim. Boldly you ride towards the gate, hoping to pass through unchallenged, but, as you approach, the Death Knights take up their spears and stand shoulder-to-shoulder across the road. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Teg okak aga kog Argazad, shad?</quote></foreign> demands their sergeant, gruffly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, and have reached the Kai rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, and have reached the Kai rank of Scion-kai or more, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you possess neither of these skills and these ranks, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta>
- <title>201</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pungent aroma of the herbs, and their origin, makes you highly suspicious of their properties. Rather than risk swallowing them, you cast them aside and rise quickly to your feet. Confident that you have not overlooked any items that could possibly aid your mission, you decide that the time has come to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta>
- <title>202</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Greedily the sergeant snatches the coins from your hand (erase all the Kika from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and pockets them with a smile. Then he turns to his troops and shouts: <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Agna tok!</quote></foreign></p>
- <p>To your relief they stand aside and you ride quickly through the gate. A shadowy street lies beyond, at the end of which there is a sign that indicates the way to the two main areas of Argazad: the ironclad harbour, and the supply depot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to investigate the harbour, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to investigate the supply depot, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta>
- <title>203</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn you that this creature has been summoned in Gnaag's defence. Its ghostly body is growing stronger every second, and you realize quickly that it is feeding on your fear. Drawing on your psychic reserves, you try to erect a mental barrier to prevent this psychic parasite from gorging on your fears.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta>
- <title>204</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Fear can play strange tricks on your eyesight, comrade,</quote> says the captain, in a patronizing tone. <quote>We'll be upon 'em soon enough. But we'll smell 'em long before we see 'em, mark my words.</quote></p>
- <p>You try to convince him that you really can see the enemy but stubbornly he refuses to listen. Minutes later, the unmistakable stench of sulphur wafts across the deck and a shout rings out from the crow's nest that sends the crew into a frenzy of activity.</p>
- <p><quote>Blockaders dead ahead!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Hard a-port!</quote> bellows the captain, and frantically his helmsman spins the ship's wheel. The deck tilts steeply and the timbers groan their protest as the caravel veers away from the enemy line. To your right you see a Darkland ironclad less than a hundred yards distant, its steel-skinned deck bristling with formidable weaponry. Then a sudden flash of blue-white light illuminates its bow and a fiery projectile arcs across the sky towards the Intrepid.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If the number is 3&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta>
- <title>205</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your powerful Kai skills to the full, you manage to prise the hideous, jelly-like creature from your head and hurl it to the floor. But no sooner has it hit the steel deck than it springs back at your face, forcing you to defend yourself.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Plaak</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta>
- <title>206</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your descent from the tunnel entrance to the base of the mountain is far more difficult than the climb up. Your ascent dislodged several sections of the trail, and the gaps that have appeared demand that you use all your skill and stamina to surmount them. One gap offers a ledge of crumbling rock no more than three inches wide on which to shuffle across. There are no handholds here; only the pressure of your chest and palms against the bare granite prevents you from falling.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have a rope, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or more, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of Solaris, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta>
- <title>207</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of animals enables you to command the two seabirds to search elsewhere for food. Instantly they fly away, cawing their displeasure, leaving you free to paddle towards the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta>
- <title>208</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you unsheathe the Sommerswerd, it radiates such goodly power that every creature in Helgedad is alerted to your presence. Within minutes you are surrounded by a nightmare legion of snarling, snapping, screaming horrors. You fight valiantly, and slay many before you are eventually overwhelmed and taken in chains before Darklord Gnaag. With cruel glee, he orders you to be cast into the Lake of Blood, where your endless suffering will feed its unholy flames for all eternity.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="190" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="190" />
- </illustration>
- <choice>Tragically, your natural life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta>
- <title>209</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a swift and graceful movement, you snatch a dagger from the belt of one of your dead foes, spin on your heel, and fling it at the archer above before he has a chance to fire a third arrow. It sinks hilt-deep into his chest, sending him tumbling backwards into the black waters of the Kaltesee. With the stern deck now cleared of the enemy, you grab the helm and attempt to steer the ship away from the ironclad. The second enemy vessel is closing fast and you fear that the Intrepid will be smashed to driftwood if caught between the two.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every Magnakai Discipline you possess above your initial three skills, add 1 to the number you have picked (for example, if you possess five Magnakai Disciplines, add 2 to the number you have picked).</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If your total is now 0&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta>
- <title>210</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Patiently, you watch the engineers complete their work. Then they climb down from the platform that services the tank area and leave the dry dock. When you are sure that the coast is clear, you climb the ladder to the tank and take a closer look at a control panel attached to its side. A dagger-sized length of white metal, suspended inside a thick glass tube, appears to control the power generated inside the orange tank. If you were to invert the tube, the change in position would be hard to detect but the result would be catastrophic. Once underway, the power would be allowed to build up unchecked and would eventually cause the tank to explode.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, and have reached the Kai rank of Principalin or more, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain this level of Kai training, you can invert the tube: <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect223">Or, you can leave the tube untouched and abandon your sabotage attempt: <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta>
- <title>211</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your keen eyes track the speeding bird and effortlessly you shoot it from the sky. It caws in pain and splashes into the sea less than an arm's length from your makeshift life-raft, enabling you to retrieve your arrow (you need not delete this arrow from your Weapons list).</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta>
- <title>212</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes its target with chilling accuracy. The Drakkar throws his arms in the air and tumbles out of the saddle, killed instantly by your deadly shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta>
- <title>213</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a fearful scream of vengeance, the Drakkar officer swings his scimitar down to cleave your neck in two. Skilfully you sidestep the blow and manage to turn the flashing blade with the edge of your weapon. He growls a curse and lunges again, determined to take your life.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Marines Officer</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">27</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect274">You can evade combat after two rounds: <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta>
- <title>214</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the Sommerswerd and the shadowy chamber is flooded with blinding golden light, as if a sun had flared into being beneath its black dome. The steel walls vibrate, then buckle beneath an onslaught of pure energy that is radiating from the sword's blade. Until now the power of the the sun-sword has been held in check, locked and subdued within its divinely crafted blade. Even the surge of power that destroyed Darklord Zagarna at the walls of Holmgard was but a candle flicker compared to the searing radiance that is now pouring from its tip.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="190" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="190" />
- </illustration>
- <p>For an instant you see panic blaze madly in Gnaag's fly-like eyes, before he is consumed by the power of the Sommerswerd and vapourized to sightless atoms. With a cry of victory, you sheathe the sun-sword and stare at the place where, only seconds before, your arch-enemy confronted you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta>
- <title>215</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced Kai skill you focus on a large, weed-draped boulder away to your left. The Giaks, led by their scout, rush towards it, their spears held at the ready. They cackle with glee at the thought of murdering another helpless Sommlending, but, of course, when they descend on the boulder, they discover that it conceals no one. The sound of their vile curses gradually fades as stealthily you escape along the beach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta>
- <title>216</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On a throne of hewn granite, ringed by seven pillars of fire, sits a being whose form radiates pure evil. A loose grey robe shrouds his skeletal frame. It is drawn closely about a stringy throat that swells and shrinks repulsively as he sucks the sulphurous air. With a claw-like finger, he scrapes nervously at the blistered flesh that is stretched tightly across the swollen left side of his face, attempting in vain to hook the head of a snake-like parasite that has burrowed into his jaw. His eyes, deep-sunken and red-rimmed with the unbearable pain of his affliction, burn with sick fanaticism as he listens impatiently to the pleas and excuses being offered by two who stand before him&emdash;the man in red and one other, both humbly bowed.</p>
- <p>The luckless mortals plead their case, speaking in the Vassagonian tongue&emdash;a language that you mastered long ago. They speak of delays in the construction of a mighty battleship, of shortages of material and of too little time in which to finish their work. Their words anger the seated one. He curses them, and the floor shudders beneath the weight of his unnatural voice. <quote>You would dare defy me?</quote> he roars. <quote>You would court the anger of Kraagenskûl, Lord of Argazad? Fools! Know you this. If your work is not completed before the next moon, you shall wish yourselves truly dead. A thousand years of agony shall be the reward for your failure, a thousand years of undeath in the dungeons of Helgedad!</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Darklord Kraagenskûl draws his sword</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="620"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="620"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Fired by his own rage, the corpse-like Darklord Kraagenskûl, rises from his throne and draws the sword that hangs sheathed at his side. The blade is unlike any that you have seen. It is wholly black, a black so dense that it appears entirely separate from the hilt, like a tear through which you glimpse the nightmare depths of space. He levels the sword at the cowering men to reinforce his threat, but the blade rebels. It twists in his hand and points accusingly at the place where you are hiding. The Darklord narrows his feral eyes and a wave of psychic shock buffets your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta>
- <title>217</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Xargath sinks swiftly beneath the icy waters. Its tail breaks the surface and slaps the swirling foam, then it too is gone, trailing the creature's lifeless body as it spirals a hundred fathoms to its final resting place at the bottom of the Kaltesee.</p>
- <p>An eerie silence descends upon the shattered decks of the Intrepid as the few who have survived the attack stare in horror at the swirling, bloodstained sea. Then begin the cries of the injured, and those who are still able to stand begin the grim task of recovering bodies and staunching wounds. You help with the search and find Captain Borse lying near the ship's longboat. He is unconscious and badly injured: both his legs have been broken at the thigh by one swipe of the monster's tail. You attempt to revive him with your basic Kai healing skills, but he is in deep shock and does not respond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta>
- <title>218</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature falls limply to the floor as your killing blow slices it almost in two. Curious as to what manner of beast it was you lift back its sundered folds of rubbery grey flesh with the tip of your weapon and notice two sets of snake-like fangs, both still oozing a sticky yellow fluid. Your senses tell you that this fluid is deadly venom, capable of killing a victim in seconds. Whoever placed this Plaak in your cabin was attempting to assassinate you.</p>
- <p>Disgusted by the smell of the creature, you flick its remains under your bunk. As you are rising to your feet, you hear a loud, intermittent whistle sounding on the deck above: it is the signal that Helgedad has been sighted by the lookout. With your heart pounding at the thought of seeing the Darklord's most infamous stronghold for the first time, you leave your cabin and ascend to the deck above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta>
- <title>219</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You understand enough of the Giak language to know that the enemy captain is preparing to hasten the Intrepid to the bottom of the sea. The metallic tube is the means by which the ironclads launch their fire-missiles, one of which you have already encountered when running the blockade out of Toran. This one is loaded and is being aimed directly at the waterline of the Intrepid. At first it strikes you as a wasteful attack: the Intrepid is sinking so fast that to fire upon it now seems to serve no practical purpose. Then you realize what the enemy commander is planning, and the thought of it makes your blood boil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113"><link-text>Turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta>
- <title>220</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the loss of your protective amulet, your highly advanced Kai skills prevent the burning temperature and poisonous atmosphere of Helgedad from causing you permanent harm. You do, however, suffer in the short term, while your body adjusts to the new environment: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta>
- <title>221</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect221-1-foot" idref="sect221-1">
- <p>Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With surprising grace, the Zlanbeast glides smoothly to a halt atop the building. The air wafting from the estuary reeks of iron and soot, and, as you jump down from the saddle, you discover that the roof is covered with a layer of grey dust several inches thick.</p>
- <p>The screech of a rusty hinge alerts you to an opening trapdoor. The grey and ugly face of an angry Giak soldier appears. He clambers on to the roof and begins shouting at you, demanding that you explain how you came to be in possession of a Zlanbeast, a creature used only by the Darklords and their undead lieutenants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you have any Kika, <a id="sect221-1" idref="sect221-1-foot" class="footnote"/> and wish to offer them to the Giak as a bribe, in return for his help in finding the Slavemaster, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you wish to ignore his threats and demand that he take you to the Slavemaster, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta>
- <title>222</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Half-blinded by dust and darkness, you drag yourself out from beneath a tangled mass of bodies and broken timbers, and stagger drunkenly towards an opening in the wall of the ship's hold. Beyond it a narrow corridor leads to a stair, where one of the crew lies dead, sprawled face-upwards, his hands locked around the blade of the Drakkar dagger that claimed his life. Still dazed by the fall, your senses fail to alert you to an enemy who is lurking in the shadows. You are about to set foot on the stairs when he attacks, seizing you from behind and holding you in a powerful neck lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, and have reached the Kai rank of Scion-kai or more, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta>
- <title>223</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A group of Drakkarim, led by a figure dressed in a hooded red robe, is making its way towards the ironclad. Suddenly it halts and one of the Drakkar warriors points at the platform on which you are standing. Rather than stay and confront them, you slide down the ladder quickly and slip away under cover of the piles of steel plates and girders.</p>
- <p>By the time the group reaches the platform, you are back on your horse and heading along the street that leads away from the dock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97"><link-text>Turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta>
- <title>224</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sixth sense screams a warning that you are about to be attacked. You spin on your heel to see a Drakkar marine lunging towards you with a stiletto-bladed dagger gripped tightly in his blistered hand.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Marine</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This adversary is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). Owing to the speed of his attack, you are unable to evade combat or draw a weapon until the beginning of the third round.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you wish to evade combat at the third round, you can do so by leaping overboard into the sea: <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta>
- <title>225</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once the bets have been collected, all eyes turn to the pit-master who will strike the gong that begins the combat. But the combat is over before it begins officially. The orange-skinned creature suddenly springs at his opponent and slams his spiked club down on his unprotected skull, killing him instantly. The crowd hoots with glee at the beast's display of low cunning, and despite some loud protests by those who, like you, bet on the humanoid, the pit-master reluctantly declares the reptilian the winner.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">Erase all the Kika you staked and <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta>
- <title>226</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The black tendril retreats&emdash;it is as if the creature can sense that you pose a threat to its safety&emdash;until it is hovering directly above the abyss. You step forward, intending to hasten it on its way, when suddenly a huge shape explodes from the crevasse, rising at such speed that its features are just a blur. The creature emits a deafening screech then dives straight towards your chest.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Ictakko's tendril skims your shoulder</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="691"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="691"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Instinctively you drop to the floor to avoid being hit by this howling horror, but, as it streaks past your body, its tendril skims your shoulder. There is a flash and a sharp pain runs down your arm; the creature has discharged a bolt of electrical energy that leaves your arms numb and nerveless&emdash;lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gritting your teeth against the pain, you get to your feet in time to see the creature swooping for a second time.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Ictakko</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, you must lose an extra 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point every time this creature inflicts a wound during the combat, owing to the numbing effect of its electrical attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta>
- <title>227</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your skill and dexterity make scaling the wall an easy task. You reach the parapet, climb over, then slip stealthily down the other side without being seen by either the guards in the watchtower, or the two on the wall. Then, hiding behind the rocks and crags that line the roadway, you escape through the pass, undetected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta>
- <title>228</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Roughly you turn over the bodies of your slain enemies, and search through their pockets and packs. You discover the following items, which may be of use to you during your mission:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>40 Kika (equivalent to 4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>Black Key</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280">To continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta>
- <title>229</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass the time prior to your departure resting and reviewing the mission in fine detail. Eventually the hour of your leaving arrives and Banedon and Rimoah escort you to Toran harbour and see you safely aboard the caravel Intrepid. Before they disembark, Banedon hands you a sealed envelope and a Golden Amulet on a chain.</p>
- <p><quote>Wear this for your protection,</quote> he says, as he fastens the chain around your neck. <quote>It will keep you safe from the heat and poisonous atmospheres that pervade your destination.</quote> (Mark the Golden Amulet on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item&emdash;you need not discard another item in its favour if you already carry the maximum quota.)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="188" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="188" />
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>And the envelope?</quote> you say, quizzically.</p>
- <p><quote>Neither Captain Borse, nor his volunteer crew, are aware of your identity or the vital nature of your voyage. All they know is that they are expected to break through the blockade and carry you safely to Durenor. When you are clear of the enemy, hand this envelope to the captain. It contains his new orders to steer a course for the Aarnak Estuary. He is a fine captain: you can trust in his skill and the bravery of his crew to see you through the dangerous waters of the Kaltesee.</quote></p>
- <p>Moments later the captain emerges from his cabin. A grey and grizzled old seaman, he sports a leather cloak that swings easily from his broad, muscular shoulders. He welcomes you aboard with a ready smile and firm handshake, then excuses himself in order to supervise the final preparations for the voyage. <quote>May the gods Kai and Ishir watch over you, Lone Wolf,</quote> whispers Lord Rimoah, as he and Banedon make ready to disembark, <quote>and grant us a lasting victory over the forces of darkness.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta>
- <title>230</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wielding a weapon of the Darklords, you strike Taktaal a grievous blow that wounds him deeply. Shrieking an unearthly cry of pain, he retreats from the Transfusor and unhooks a mace, carved from a solid chunk of black crystal, from a chain around his putrescent neck. As he raises it, you move forward to strike again.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Taktaal (wounded)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta>
- <title>231</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim and fire at the leading Drakkar, sending your shaft spinning deep into his leather-clad chest. He screams, his cry muffled by his battle-mask, and crumples to his knees. The remaining three Drakkar press home their attack. Quickly they advance, and you barely have time to unsheathe a hand weapon before they are upon you, screaming their bloodthirsty cries of revenge.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Escorts</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta>
- <title>232</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar gurgles his death-cry and falls heavily to the deck, his scimitar still clasped firmly in his hand. Then the first of his troops appear at the rail. For a moment they hesitate when they see their officer lying dead, but shock soon turns to fury. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Shez dot got!</quote></foreign> they scream, as they thunder towards you, murder blazing in their cruel eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you wish to evade their attack, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you decide to stand your ground and receive their attack, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta>
- <title>233</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you try to shake off the clammy creature, but it manages to sink two sets of snake-like fangs into your neck and inject its deadly venom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Curing, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta>
- <title>234</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although the cave is empty, you detect the lingering scent of a creature that has slept here in the last twenty-four hours. If this is the creature's lair, it is likely to return to seek shelter from the storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you wish to leave the cave and look for shelter elsewhere, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you decide to stay in the cave and remain on your guard in case its previous occupant should return, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta>
- <title>235</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>The Transfusor, which you must destroy to ensure the end of the Darklords who are now outside the boundaries of this realm, is located in the uppermost chamber of the Tower of the Damned. You will find this tower in a part of the city known as the Imperial Sector. But be warned! This sector is the most heavily guarded area of the city, for it is here that Gnaag himself resides.</quote></p>
- <p>The Slavemaster takes a strange mask from a nearby table and offers it to you. It is made of a green, glass-like mineral and is shaped into a hideous visage. <quote>Wear this always. It will keep safe your identity from any casual inspection.</quote> You accept the Green Mask (mark this as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;you need not discard any other item in its favour if you already hold the maximum), and listen carefully as the Slavemaster concludes your briefing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta>
- <title>236</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the bowstring and send the arrow whistling deep into the Xargath's cavernous mouth, causing the monster to twist its head and hiss like a steam vent. But still it advances undeterred. Cursing your misfortune, you shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon in readiness for its impending attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta>
- <title>237</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down upon the Drakkar and wrench him from his saddle, but you cannot keep a firm grip on his shiny leather armour, and you hit the ground with a jolt that leaves you breathless: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta>
- <title>238</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you unshoulder your bow and draw the magical arrow to your lips. Its glowing shaft betrays the power that is locked within it, a power that can kill those who created and harnessed it to murder others. Taktaal senses that his doom is near and tries to give vent to a cry of alarm, but the cry dies in his throat as you send the Zejar-dulaga burrowing deep into his evil heart. With a surge of incredible strength, Taktaal drags the arrow from his body and collapses at the edge of the dais. A foul black gas hisses from the gaping wound and his body dissolves rapidly and fades until all that is left is a dull grey stain on the shiny black steel floor.</p>
- <p><quote>Ghanesh will be proud of you!</quote> comes a voice from the shadows, full of malevolence. It is a sound that strikes terror in your heart, for immediately you recognize the rasping tone of your most hated foe&emdash;Darklord Gnaag.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta>
- <title>239</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw a weapon and leap forward, determined to prevent the slaughter of your defenceless companions. The speed and ferocity of your attack takes the captain and his two gunners completely by surprise. With deadly speed you dispatch the enemy commander and one of his men, then turn to parry a sword thrust from the remaining gunner. He screams maniacally as he tries to cut you down.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Gunner</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta>
- <title>240</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow draws a howl from Darklord Kraagenskûl, so loud that it shakes the very foundations of the building. He falls, yet as he does so, his withered frame vanishes before your eyes, leaving only a tattered grey robe and a black sword to mark his passing.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep Helshezag, the sword of Darklord Kraagenskûl, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item. (You wrap this sword in the remains of the Darklord's grey robe and carry it vertically, tied behind your Backpack) When used in combat, it will add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, and 7 points when used against a Darklord of Helgedad. However, prolonged use of this evil blade will weaken your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. In the second and subsequent rounds of every combat in which you use the sword, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> level by 1 point.</p>
- <p>Having recovered from your combat, you quickly leave the chamber by a stair that leads to the roof. There you discover the Zlanbeast, Kraagenskûl's personal winged mount, perched on a raised log. Standing nearby is a Death Knight armed with a spear, staring absent-mindedly over the parapet at the harbour lights below. The Zlanbeast sniffs the air and shuffles along its perch with a nervous, rolling gait. It senses that you are its natural enemy and it is becoming agitated in your presence. You must act quickly and with skill if you are to use this beast to escape from Argazad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you wish to approach the Death Knight and tell him that he is wanted at the barracks, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you wish to creep up on the warrior and launch a surprise attack, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta>
- <title>241</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For two days and nights the Intrepid forges a course through stormy waters, running ahead of a chill wind that sweeps down from the glaciers of Kalte in the north. The sea becomes increasingly hazardous, with sleet squalls and lightning storms that break without warning. Yet the dawn of the third day heralds a sudden change in the weather: fog. A windless, soundless, grey, forbidding damp that cuts off eyesight at an arm's length and leaves the crew soaked and shivering. Many stare enviously at your Kalkoth hide cloak as they attend to their early morning duties in quiet discomfort.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse this fog,</quote> grumbles Captain Borse, staring helplessly at the clammy mist that holds his ship becalmed. <quote>Better a gale or a kuri-storm than this.</quote> For countless hours the ship lies dormant, rocking gently on the cold, listless sea. Staring at the wall of fog, it is easy to imagine all manner of creatures lurking within. The eerie silence does little to allay the superstitious fears of the crew, and when suddenly the quiet is disturbed by a shoal of red-finned sea carp, more than one man cries out in shocked surprise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta>
- <title>242</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the hellish cries of the minions of Darklord Taktaal ringing in your ears, you flee for your life along a dark and twisting alley. The surface is ankle-deep in stinking carrion, which makes keeping your balance a difficult task, but the fear of what will befall you should you slip is all that you need to ensure that you stay on your feet. The alley ends at a wider street running from north to south. The sound of howling wolves dissuades you from turning north, so you set off quickly along the street that heads towards the southern sectors of the city.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If your total is now 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta>
- <title>243</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The force of your killing blow sends the Drakkar reeling backwards across the deck. He collides with another sailor, who was coming to his aid, and knocks him headlong into the sea. You brace yourself in case there is another waiting to rush at you, but the smoke from the vessel's funnel is so thick, and the other Drakkarim are so preoccupied with hooking their marines out of the water, that they fail to notice you creeping towards the wheelhouse near the middle of the deck. A steel door swings open at your approach and three hefty Drakkarim confront you on the threshold. You parry one's blade, take the second in the chest, and see the third spin sideways, trailing scarlet spray from the fatal wound you have dealt him. A quick thrust to the heart puts paid to the remaining sailor. He screams and falls through the doorway, tumbling down an iron staircase that descends into noise-filled darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you do not possess this skill, you can either descend the stairs: <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">Or you can slam shut the steel door and look for another place to hide from the Drakkarim sailors on deck: <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta>
- <title>244</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sparks of brilliant light dance wildly before your eyes as the power of Kraagenskûl's attack sears the fabric of your mind. You reel under the onslaught yet manage, in your desperation, to repulse the assault: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. As the shock slowly fades and your vision returns to normal, you steel yourself to face the Darklord once more.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta>
- <title>245</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow soars into the sky, missing the bird by a hand's breadth, and, in your rush to draw a hand weapon, carelessly you drop your bow into the sea (erase this weapon from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). Cursing the loss of your weapon, you get ready to defend yourself against this air attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta>
- <title>246</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the dead Liganim into the shadows and check his pockets for anything that may prove useful. All that you discover is a Black Key. If you wish to keep this key, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">To continue, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta>
- <title>247</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your hand closes on the hilt, a voice in your head screams a warning. You recall the words of Lord Rimoah when, in the Externment Chamber of the Magician's Guild of Toran, he gave you the special korlinium scabbard that now sheathes the sun-sword: <thought>
- <quote>Remember, to unsheathe the Sommerswerd within the Darklands is to light a beacon of warning that Gnaag will surely see&ellips;</quote>
- </thought></p>
- <p>Rather than draw the sword and risk the failure of your mission, you withdraw your hand as the Giaks launch their attack.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Giak Sentries</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">17</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>You must fight the first two rounds of this combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">You are able to evade combat at the start of the third round by leaping from the battlements: <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta>
- <title>248</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the body of your slain enemy and rush to help Davan, who is being driven back across the deck by three snarling Drakkarim. <quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, as you launch your attack, felling two of his adversaries with a single, sweeping blow. Deftly he puts paid to the third, and together you advance towards the stern where the enemy are attempting to capture the helm. Already several of the crew lie bleeding on the deck, and, although they fight bravely, they are no match for the vicious Drakkarim marines.</p>
- <p>At the foot of the makeshift stairs that ascend to the stern deck, you are confronted by the leader of the enemy's assault team. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Okak gaz egor!</quote></foreign> he growls, his evil eyes glinting through the slits in his studded leather battle-mask. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Shez ok okak nogjat ash gajog ok okak adez!</quote></foreign> With that, he lifts his reddened axe and strides forward to meet your advance.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Marine Sergeant</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect7">You can evade combat after the first two rounds: <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta>
- <title>249</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ignore the group and follow a handful of noisy Giak crew members, in the hope of overhearing something that gives you a clue as to the whereabouts of the Imperial Sector of Helgedad. The tunnel soon joins another at a point where a granite staircase ascends to the surface. The crew climb the stairs, and you watch them disappearing through an open archway that gives access to the street above. What should you do now?</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, and have reached the Kai rank of Tutelary or more, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta>
- <title>250</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you languish in the cell, the Death Knight sergeant conveys your equipment to his commander, Darklord Kraagenskûl. At once he recognizes their origins and deduces your true identity. Word is sent to Gnaag, and within the space of four short hours he journeys to the naval base from the city of Helgedad. He orders you to be executed at the earliest opportunity and demands, on pain of death, that the task be accomplished successfully.</p>
- <p>It is Darklord Kraagenskûl who suggests the method for your execution, and the irony of it appeals greatly to his master. At dawn, the Crystal Explosive that you had intended to use in Helgedad, is placed next to the door of the cell. The barracks are evacuated and the explosive is primed. Fifteen minutes later, your life and your mission are brought to an abrupt and final end.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta>
- <title>251</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your telescopic vision, you focus on the approaching shape and, as it draws nearer, you are able to discern exactly what it is. You see a wagon laden with barrels and boxes, and drawn by six ox-like creatures. Two Giaks are sitting on top of the wagon: the driver, who is lashing the team with a whip, and a guard, who appears to be fast asleep. Behind the wagon are four horsemen&emdash;Drakkarim escorts, judging by their size and the cut of their black leather armour.</p>
- <p>Their route will take them close to where you are sheltering. Mindful of the Giak ability to see in the dark, you decide to stay in hiding and wait for them to pass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta>
- <title>252</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The angry screams of the Giak search party fill the night sky. The Giaks witnessed the slaying of their comrades and are now rushing forward to kill you in turn. Aching with the fatigue of your exertions, you choose to evade rather than fight the remaining enemy, and begin the steep climb towards the cliff top.</p>
- <p>Halfway up the cliff you make out some shadows descending the path ahead. You sense that it is another Giak search party attempting to cut you off and your pulse quickens. You look for a way to avoid them, but the only escape from the path is a sheer drop to the beach below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta>
- <title>253</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wiping the sweat and grime from your eyes, you clamber up the stairs and emerge on the stern deck, close to the helm. There you find Davan and a handful of the crew fighting a desperate melee against a determined enemy who outnumber them by two to one. You raise your weapon and cleave a path towards your beleaguered allies. As you draw closer, Davan sees you and gives a cheer. You acknowledge his shout with your battle-cry, <quote>For Sommerlund!</quote></p>
- <p>He replies, but this time with a cry of warning: <quote>Archer above you!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance up into the rigging, and a cold spike of fear stabs your heart as you glimpse the gloating face of a Drakkar. With one hand he holds a bow and with the other he draws back an arrow to his bristle-bearded chin. He mouths a curse and lets fly his deadly shaft.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta>
- <title>254</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>All the bets are quickly placed and the pit-master prepares to start the proceedings, but the fight is over almost as soon as It begins. Without waiting for the pit-master to hammer the gong that signifies the start of combat, the orange-skinned fighter springs across the pit and buries its spiked club between the startled eyes of its opponent, killing him instantly. The crowd hoots with glee at the beast's display of low cunning, and, despite some loud protests by those who bet on the humanoid, the pit-master reluctantly declares the reptilian the winner.</p>
- <p>Bets are about to be placed on the next round of combat when a loud, intermittent whistle interrupts the preliminaries: it is the signal that Helgedad has been sighted by the lookout. Some of the crowd leave their seats in order to view the Black City through the tiny portholes that line the walls of the gallery. With your heart pounding at the thought of seeing the Darkland's most infamous stronghold for the first time, you leave the pit and join them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta>
- <title>255</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kraagenskûl watches you step over the gore-stained bodies of his creations, then raises his black sword as you approach him boldly. <quote>Here lies your doom, fool!</quote> he roars, waving his sword before his ghastly face. <quote>Come. Take it &ellips; if you dare!</quote></p>
- <p>Cautiously you circle the Darklord, taking care to remain beyond the reach of his sorcerous blade, but he moves towards you with surprising speed. As you dive to avoid his attack, you seek a chance to turn the odds a little in your favour. With a mighty kick, you send one of the fiery pillars toppling towards your foe. He screams and dodges aside, but the column glances his shoulder as it slams to the granite floor with a crackling roar. The black sword spins from his hand and slides to a halt near the base of the throne. For a moment your eyes meet, then simultaneously you race to retrieve the blade.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every Magnakai Discipline that you possess, including your initial three skills, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If your total is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta>
- <title>256</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand at the ship's rail and stare at the surrounding wall of darkness. The salty air is cold upon your face, but, as you breathe deeply, you detect a strangely bitter smell, like burnt sulphur, being carried on the wind. You are about to mention this to the captain when a shout rings out from the crow's nest that sends the crew into a frenzy of activity. <quote>Blockaders dead ahead!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Hard a-port!</quote> bellows the captain, and his helmsman spins the ship's wheel frantically.</p>
- <p>Five Darkland ironclads loom into view. They each carry a formidable array of weapons mounted on their steel-skinned decks, and protruding from the middle of each craft is a tall funnel, which belches forth a cloud of choking, sulphurous smoke. As the Intrepid swerves to avoid collision, this acrid smoke wafts across the water and engulfs the crew, causing them to cough and retch violently.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a flash of blue-white light illuminates the bow of the nearest ironclad and a fiery projectile arcs across the sky.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If it is 2&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta>
- <title>257</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leathery Zlanbeast flaps its wings and shifts its weight uneasily from one clawed foot to the other. Carefully you approach this dangerous creature, with your eyes fixed upon its saddle and your nerves on edge, fearing that at any moment it will slash you with its razor-hooked beak.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster or more, add 4 to this number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta>
- <title>258</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Starbursts of light flash before your eyes and the pain in your head grows ever more unbearable until you feel sure that your skull is about to explode: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (If you possess either a Psychic Ring or a Grey Crystal Ring, lose only 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>Then, unexpectedly, the pain stops and Taktaal shrieks with anger and surprise. He has seen through your disguise and your true identity shocks him to the core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta>
- <title>259</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first arrow pierces a heart, but your second is deflected by a steel breastplate. Before you have a chance to fire again, the surviving gunner is upon you, his short sword unsheathed and ready to stab at your chest.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkar Gunner</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">19</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, you must fight the first two rounds of combat unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you win and the fight lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta>
- <title>260</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Slavemaster dons a mask that covers his nose and mouth, through which he is able to breath safely the noxious air that swirls outside his tower. He takes you to the outskirts of Aarnak in his personal chariot, to a vast, open-cast quarry. The means of your transportation to Helgedad waits at the edge of the quarry's vast crater. Your jaw opens in amazement when you set eyes on the vehicle, for it is gigantic, by far the largest vehicle you have ever seen on dry land.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Lajakeka waits at the<br />edge of the quarry's crater</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="385" height="637"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="385" height="637"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>It is a Lajakeka, a <quote>stone-taker</quote>,</quote> says the Slavemaster, clearly amused by your awed reaction to this wheeled leviathan. <quote>It is filled with ore, mined here at this crater, that is destined for the furnaces of Helgedad. You are to be a passenger on its return journey to the Black City. However, you will not be travelling alone. There are several Liganim, and some others besides, who will be fellow travellers. Be wary of them and remember all that I have said.</quote></p>
- <p>Then he bids you farewell, and watches as you climb the wide ramp that leads into the belly of the steel beast. Inside it is not unlike a ship, with cabins for the travellers and crew, and interconnecting passages that service the vast cargo holds full of ore. Giak crew allocate cabins at random, and once you are safely inside yours, you pull the drawbolt and try to make yourself comfortable on an unpadded steel bunk. Then the screech of metal on metal and the dull throbbing of the Lajakeka's engines fill your ears. The bunk shudders and your pulse quickens: your journey to Helgedad is underway.</p>
- <p>You have been travelling for less than an hour when you hear a knock on your cabin door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or more, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, and wish to open your cabin door, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you do not possess this skill or have yet to reach this level of Kai training and wish to ignore the knock, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta>
- <title>261</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Darklord laughs and the chamber vibrates to the sound of his ghastly glee.</p>
- <p><quote>So, the worm-master's minion wishes to serve a lord with true power, does he? Very well, you treacherous slime, but first you will have to prove yourself worthy of my lordship.</quote></p>
- <p>He moves towards the Transfusor, in doing so turning his back on you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to take this opportunity to launch a surprise attack at the Darklord, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not wish to attack him, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta>
- <title>262</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can thank the captain for his generosity, he lapses into a merciful unconsciousness that spares him the pain of his injuries. Having done what you can to make him comfortable, you return to the deck to survey the damage.</p>
- <p>Over half the crew have been killed or injured in the attack and the ship herself is badly mauled. The main mast is down, the sails hang in tatters, and there is a gaping hole that stretches along the port beam to within a few feet of the waterline.</p>
- <p><quote>We can patch up the canvas and work the ship on a skeleton crew,</quote> says Davan, peering over the splintered rail, <quote>but if we catch a storm this far out to sea, we're all done for.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect330"><link-text>Turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta>
- <title>263</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pause just long enough to drag the dead guard's body into the shadows, then slip quickly into the tower. A semicircular passageway opens on to a hall, where a wide steel staircase descends to a torchlit passage. Cautiously you proceed, poised to react to the slightest sound. You hear nothing: the stair and the passage beyond it appear deserted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta>
- <title>264</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You aim and fire at a point between the creature's yellow, cat-like eyes. The shaft strikes, but the beast has already begun to leap and it misses its vital target, sinking instead into a slab of muscle that sheathes its neck. It shrieks when it hits the ground, which shudders beneath the vast stone weight. Quickly you shoulder your bow and move forward to finish the beast before it can recover, but as you make your attack, you discover that the creature is ready to receive it.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The huge, shaggy Egorgh gets<br />ready to leap at your chest</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="687"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="687"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Egorgh</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is particularly susceptible to psychic attack; double all bonuses you would normally be entitled to if using Mindblast or Psi-surge during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta>
- <title>265</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fight is over almost as soon as it begins. Without waiting for the pit-master to hammer the gong that signifies the start of combat, the orange-skinned fighter springs across the pit and buries its spiked club between the startled eyes of its opponent, killing him instantly. The crowd hoots with glee at the beast's display of low cunning, and, despite some loud protests by those who bet on the humanoid, the pit-master reluctantly declares the reptilian winner.</p>
- <p>Double the amount of Kika you staked and make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134"><link-text>Turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta>
- <title>266</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen steps into the black and humid depths, when you glimpse movement below and hear the sound of angry Drakkarim voices: the dead sailor has been discovered. The slick hiss of steel drawn from leather warns you that the crew are about to ascend the stairs. They are enraged and determined to avenge the death of their companion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you possess a Fireseed and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you decide to avoid a confrontation on the stairs, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you choose to draw a weapon and prepare to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta>
- <title>267</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A blinding pain engulfs your mind. It distorts your vision and drags you screaming to your knees. In desperation, you claw at your scalp and plead for the agony to cease: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As if in answer to your plea, the pain disappears. But your fear remains and grows deeper as you stare into the merciless eyes of Darklord Kraagenskûl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta>
- <title>268</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bird streaks towards you at such a speed that instinctively you know that your first blow must count. There will be no time for a second before its dagger-sharp beak rakes your face.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Sea-scavenger</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>The creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge). If the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose in the first round of combat is greater than the number lost by your enemy, then the creature's attack has caused lasting injury to your eyesight, and any subsequent <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points that you may lose during the combat are permanent (they reduce your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score and cannot be restored through the use of healing, potions, etc).</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta>
- <title>269</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sergeant snatches the Medal from your hand and scrutinizes it with greedy eyes. Slowly he nods his head, then turns to face his troops. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Agna tok!</quote></foreign> he commands. <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Dok lug shad!</quote></foreign></p>
- <p>You breathe a silent sigh of relief as they begin to move aside. Then you slap your horse's rump and urge him through the gate. A shadowy street lies beyond, at the end of which is a sign that indicates the way to the two main areas of Argazad: the ironclad harbour and the supply depot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to investigate the harbour, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you wish to investigate the supply depot, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta>
- <title>270</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You load and take aim at the beast's massive head, as it swings low across the deck, smashing and crushing all before it. Its scaly hide looks as tough as steel plate and you search desperately for a part that may be vulnerable to an arrow. Your heart pounds and your face is drenched in cold sweat as the Xargath, its jaws agape, swings back its head and lunges straight at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control and Divination, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you do not possess both these skills, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta>
- <title>271</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to discard your cape and tunic in favour of a suit of leather Drakkarim battle-armour. Disguised as one of these evil warriors, especially with your face hidden behind a black battle-mask, it should be easier to enter Argazad.</p>
- <p>Having hidden the bodies and drawn the wagon under cover, you set loose the wagon team and shoo them into the surrounding hills. One of the Drakkarim horses is still close by and you manage to coax it nearer, using some food found in the back of the wagon. While it eats, you tie the reins to a rock to keep it from wandering away, and sift through the crates once more for items that might be of use on the road ahead. You discover the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>6 Arrows</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>400 Kika (equivalent to 40 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>It is now too dark to continue, so you decide to rest and begin your ride to Argazad at first light. You are now hungry and must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200">To continue, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta>
- <title>272</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deck is shrouded in smoke but the sound of heavy boots pounding steel plate warns you that a group of Drakkarim marines are approaching, drawn by their comrade's dying screams.</p>
- <p>Acting on instinct, you grab the rear of the cannon and revolve it on its mounting until it points directly along the deck. A dozen angry marines emerge from the smoke and their faces freeze in terror when they find themselves staring into the muzzle of their own formidable weapon. <quote>Death to the Darklords!</quote> you cry, and pull the firing lever.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta>
- <title>273</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses scream a warning that there is something alive attached to the ceiling of the cabin. It is about to drop on your head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Magnakai Disciplines of Huntmastery and Pathsmanship, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta>
- <title>274</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the stern deck and land near the foot of the stairs. Water is pouring into the Intrepid at a terrific rate, causing her to list heavily to starboard.</p>
- <p><quote>Abandon ship!</quote> cries Davan, his strong voice carrying above the clangour of striking swords and dying men. As he rushes past you&emdash;followed closely by two Kirlundins&emdash;he urges you to save yourself before the ship goes down. To stay would be suicidal, and you quickly to follow his lead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110"><link-text>Turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta>
- <title>275</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The golden blade spins through the air and slices deep into the Darklord's shoulder, drawing forth a splash of vile ichor before it clatters noisily to the floor. Kraagenskûl screams in agony, his arm virtually severed from his torso, yet still he manages to touch the silvery liquid. It emits a humming sound, which rises above his cries of pain, and a sparkling mist illuminates the bowl. Swiftly the mist clears to reveal the hideous face of Darklord Gnaag floating upon the surface.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="200" />
- </illustration>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Aki-amaz narg kog Argazad!</quote></foreign> shrieks Kraagenskûl, before you kick the bowl from its plinth, destroying the communicator. The Darklord lashes out with his sword, but you sidestep the wild blow with little difficulty, then stoop to retrieve the Sommerswerd before he strikes a second time.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Darklord Kraagenskûl (wounded)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This being is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta>
- <title>276</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow passes clean through the tendril and shatters against the far wall, drawing a flash of sparks where it punctures it. The harsh, metallic stench of ozone colours the foul air, and the creature withdraws its injured limb. Suddenly, a huge shape explodes from the crevasse, rising at such speed that its features are a blur. It emits a deafening screech and dives towards your chest, lashing you with its injured tendril before you have a chance to draw a hand weapon in your defence. There is another flash and a juddering pain runs the length of your arm, leaving it numb and nerveless: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gritting your teeth against the pain, you fumble for a weapon as the creature begins its second swooping attack.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Ictakko (wounded)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">31</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of its attack, and the wound you have sustained, you are unable to draw a hand weapon until the beginning of the third round of combat. Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, you must lose an extra 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point every time the Ictakko inflicts a wound during the combat, owing to the numbing effect of its electrical attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta>
- <title>277</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You haul yourself over the rim of the nest and discover the lookout: he is huddled on the floor, shivering with fright. He mutters something but his words are lost in the noise of the destruction raging below. Then the ship rolls violently and you grab the mast to stop yourself from being hurled into the sea. The Xargath has freed its head and is now wreaking havoc amidships, tearing the Intrepid asunder with its claws. The massive head rises once more, trailing broken timbers, and lunges for the mast. With an ear-splitting crack it bites it clean in two and, in a flashing instant, you are sent tumbling from your perch to crash upon the debris-strewn deck. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta>
- <title>278</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You insert the key and twist it. The lock clicks and the door swings open silently to reveal a stunning sight. A large, low-ceiling room lies beyond, filled with colossal tanks of glass that bubble and seethe with all manner of sorcerous fluids. Glass tubes loop and contort in curious shapes, connecting the tanks and enabling their contents to flow from one to another. The air is heavy with the stench of acids and harsh chemicals, and the walls are lined from ceiling to floor with stoppered jars, each one filled with a brightly coloured powder, liquid or gas.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The room is filled with colossal<br />glass tanks and tubes all bubbling<br />with sorcerous fluids</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="692"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="692"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>On one workbench a curious, arrow-shaped rod is suspended in a field of electrical energy. The crackling fire arcs between two vertical plates of metal, making the arrow glow with a strange phosphorescent light. You take a closer look and see that a lever protruding from the bench itself controls the flow of power. Then you notice that behind the bench there is another door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you wish to take a closer look at the rod, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to examine the door behind the bench, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta>
- <title>279</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once again your quick wits and instinct for survival have saved you from death. The Giak search party rush forward and surround the boulder where you were spotted, only to find it deserted. In frustration at having let you slip through their fingers, they overturn every rock in the vicinity, cursing and stabbing at anything that moves: they succeed in killing three crabs and a sea-snake! By the time they realize that you have escaped, it is too late for them to catch up; you are over a mile away, running northwards along the beach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta>
- <title>280</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you continue along the tunnel, anxious to put some distance between yourself and the bodies of your foes. You have covered less than a hundred yards when the tunnel splits: one passage slopes gently downwards; the other, steeply upwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to follow the passage downwards, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you decide to climb the passage sloping upwards, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta>
- <title>281</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your stern commands seem to impress this Giak soldier. Humbly, he bows his head and beckons you to follow him as he climbs back through the trapdoor and down a stair that descends into the heart of the building. There, stacked on countless shelves, are row upon row of coiled steel cables, girders, iron bolts, and myriad other parts destined for the fleet of ironclads at anchor in Argazad harbour.</p>
- <p>You follow the bow-legged Giak out of the building and through a maze of garbage-choked streets, past rusting tenements and squalid huts, to an iron tower at the centre of the city. Unlike everywhere else, this tower appears to have escaped the effects of the corrosive atmosphere: its surfaces are dull yet free from any sign of decay. The Giak speaks with another who guards its open entrance and immediately he stands aside, allowing you to enter the tower's gloomy ground floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta>
- <title>282</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You wield a weapon imbued with great power, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Rimoah, glancing at the Sommerswerd sheathed at your side. <quote>Be sure to use it well. Now that you possess the wisdom of the Lorestones, you will discover new strengths within its golden blade. It is the bane of the Darklords&emdash;the instrument of their destruction. Yet by the very nature of its power it can alert them to your presence and betray your identity.</quote> He reaches to his waist and unbuckles a seemingly plain leather swordbelt and scabbard. <quote>I have prepared this scabbard from materials impregnated with korlinium. It will contain and keep hidden the powers of the Sommerswerd,</quote> he says, handing you the accoutrements. <quote>Remember, to unsheathe the Sommerswerd inside the Darklands is to light a beacon of warning that Gnaag and his fell minions will surely see. Only when you have Gnaag within striking distance should you draw your blade to seal his doom.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="190" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="190" />
- </illustration>
- <p>You discard your old scabbard in favour of Rimoah's and take heed of his advice. (Mark the Korlinium Scabbard as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already carry the maximum number of Special Items allowed.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect229"><link-text>Turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta>
- <title>283</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the flickering scarlet doorway of a tower to your right comes a line of robed figures, every one of them dressed in red. They are led by a squat, horny-skinned creature with baleful, milky-coloured eyes. These eyes roll like balls of mist inside its head as the creature emits a fiendish howl, and points at you with its clawed hand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you wish to confront this creature and its followers, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to try to evade these creatures, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta>
- <title>284</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Patiently you wait until the Drakkarim and Giaks are snoring soundly, then you leave your hiding place and slip away undetected. Your plan is to ambush the Drakkar who was caught cheating, at dawn when he rides back to Argazad alone. By discarding your cape and tunic in favour of his battle-armour it should be far easier to enter the naval base unnoticed, especially on horseback and with your face obscured by one of the grotesque battle-masks that all Drakkarim wear.</p>
- <p>Three miles along the trail you find the ideal place to launch your ambush, where the stony track passes between a cluster of huge rocks. There you lie in wait for the dawn and with it the arrival of your victim. While you wait, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">To continue, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta>
- <title>285</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a loud bang and a wave of heat rolls over you as the cannon spits its deadly missile at the advancing Drakkarim. It bores through their ranks and slams into the wheelhouse with shuddering force. Jets of yellow flame roar from a jagged hole, illuminating the grim remains of what a moment before were enemy marines. Then the deck jumps up and slaps the soles of your feet. The missile has penetrated the ironclad's magazine, and, in an instant, the vessel is blown apart. The last thing you remember before darkness obliterates your senses is an eye-searing flash of white and scarlet fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta>
- <title>286</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you watch the Vassagonians leave, you edge nearer to Kraagenskûl and prepare yourself to launch a surprise attack. You will need all your speed and skill if you are to catch him off-guard. From the bottom of the stairs you hear the steel door click shut and immediately you spin around to face your enemy. But he has a plan of his own and it is he who catches you by surprise. A crackling arc of blue electrical fire surges from his hand and connects with your chest, shaking you like a helpless puppet on the tip of a fiery lance.</p>
- <p><quote>Now tell me everything you know!</quote> he growls, as he increases the current. It is a torture that he has employed countless times, and always it has elicited the truth from his human victims.</p>
- <p>Your skin tingles and the charge causes you to shiver, yet you feel no pain. Staring down, you see that the crackling bolt is being drawn to the Golden Amulet that hangs around your chest: its magical properties are neutralizing the evil charge. Kraagenskûl senses that something is wrong. He breaks off his attack, his bulbous eyes filled with fearful suspicion. He steps back, then utters a curse in the dark tongue, which echoes like thunder around the walls. Black mist pours from his fingers, swirling into a cone that grows in his bony palm. Shadow-shapes writhe at the core, then gush towards you, engulfing you in a choking flood of deadly Crypt Spawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you possess the Sommerswerd and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you possess the Dagger of Vashna and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you possess neither of these Special Items, or choose not to use either of them, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta>
- <title>287</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow flies straight and true, hitting the creature squarely in the head and killing him instantly. The cries of your pursuers are growing louder, so you shoulder your bow quickly beneath your robe and run towards the entrance to the tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta>
- <title>288</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Part of the heavy boom glances off your shoulder, making you lose your balance and fall to your knees: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. The wound causes you to react sluggishly to the burning canvas now draped over your body and, in a matter of seconds, the flames and smoke completely engulf you. Instinctively, you fight to free yourself, then suddenly you realize that your clothes are unaffected by the blaze, and that the tongues of fire that are licking your hands and face cause you no pain whatsoever. Without haste or urgency you cast aside the blazing sailcloth and emerge unburned.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta>
- <title>289</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are in combat with a wounded Vladoka&emdash;an élite Nadziranim temple guard. Despite his injury, you cannot evade his attacks and must fight him to the death.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Vladoka (wounded)</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the power of the weapon he wields, this denizen of Helgedad is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta>
- <title>290</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Sergeant crashes lifelessly to the deck and, for a few moments, the troops that were fighting by his side stare down at his body in shocked disbelief. For six years he had led them to glory&emdash;his battle-skills and cunning ensuring their survival&emdash;and now he lies dead, killed by a Sommlending. Taking advantage of their stunned state, you cleave a path up the staircase and force your way towards the helm. You are within ten feet of the ship's wheel when Davan screams a warning: <quote>Archer above you!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance up into the rigging and a cold spike of fear stabs your heart when you glimpse the gloating face of a Drakkar marine. With one hand he holds a bow and with the other he draws back an arrow to his chin. He mouths a curse and lets fly the deadly shaft.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta>
- <title>291</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Gaz dik!</quote></foreign> roars the guard, and reaches for his wide-bladed battle sword. Using his psychic probe&emdash;the crystal box-like device that he removed from his pouch&emdash;he has detected that it is your intention to destroy the Transfusor and kill Darklord Gnaag. Instantly, the guards spring into action, forcing you to retreat along the corridor as you fumble to unsheathe a weapon.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Imperial Sector Guards</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>These guards are immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you win and the combat lasts five rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you win and the combat last longer than five rounds, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta>
- <title>292</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed and ferocity of your attack take the Drakkarim gunners by surprise. Frantically they fumble to draw their short swords as you leap amongst them and strike your first blows.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Gunners</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">21</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first two rounds of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta>
- <title>293</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Be on your guard at all times,</quote> he says, solemnly. <quote>The lesser creatures of Helgedad are a ruthlessly treacherous breed, forever preoccupied with their complex political intrigues. You will need to be doubly cunning if you are not to fall foul of their willful machinations. The robe you wear marks you as one of Darklord Ghanesh's minions. He is far away at present, leading his horde in distant Lencia, but his absence will be of little help to you. Avoid all who wear robes of green and scarlet, for they are followers of Xog and Taktaal, Ghanesh's closest rivals. But above all, avoid those who wear silver-grey, the same colour as yourself, for they know their own kind and are sure to see through your disguise.</quote></p>
- <p>He walks across the chamber and picks up a curious-looking device by which he is able to tell the time of day. <quote>Come, follow me. Now you will learn how you are to breach the defences of Helgedad.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta>
- <title>294</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kirlundin close the gaps and the Drakkarim are soon repulsed, enabling your command to catch their breath and retrieve their wounded. Yet the lull in the fighting is but a brief respite before the enemy surge forward once more, this time with even greater fury and determination. The crash and screech of combat is carried on an ever rising wind that causes the linked vessels to roll and pitch violently.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta>
- <title>295</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The harbour and neighbouring wharfs are filled with noise and furious industry. An army of slaves and Drakkarim overseers are at work servicing the ironclad fleet, their lanterns flickering along the rows of shiny black decks as they toil to maintain the vessels in fighting trim.</p>
- <p>As you enter the harbour square, you pass a line of wagons laden with heavy machinery, which are queueing to enter a dry dock. There, illuminated by the glare of huge oil lamps, is the largest ship you have ever seen&emdash;a monstrous ironclad juggernaut bristling with awesome weaponry. You stop to stare at this terrifying vessel, and overhear two Drakkarim engineers talking about their work. Your blood runs cold when you hear one of them reveal why this juggernaut is being built. It is to be used to destroy Holmgard, your country's capital city.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Inside the harbour square you stop and<br />stare at a monstrous ironclad juggernaut</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="658"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="658"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to enter the dry dock and attempt to sabotage the juggernaut, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you decide to ride on and continue your search for some means of transportation to Aarnak, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta>
- <title>296</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than a mile along the rock shore, you catch sight of something moving in the shadows. You use your advanced Kai skill to magnify your vision and are able to see a patrol of Giaks, searching the water's edge for survivors of the battle. Some they help, carrying them on stretchers to their encampment perched high on a overhanging cliff; others, presumably crew from the Intrepid, they stab repeatedly with their spears and leave for the sharks to claim. Forewarned by your skill, you begin to paddle away from the patrol, keen to avoid their chilling welcome.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta>
- <title>297</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having satisfied yourself that you have overlooked no items of use, you decide to make your way to the heart of Aarnak. Your trek takes you into a maze of garbage-choked streets lined with rusting tenements and squalid huts. Hordes of slaves move to and fro, their backs bent by years of heavy labour. As you turn a corner you are confronted by a procession of these sad creatures, led by a squad of Giaks.</p>
- <p>The leader, a squat Giak sergeant wearing a doomwolf pelt, commands you to halt. Drakkarim are rare visitors to Aarnak, the human constitution being ill-suited to the hostile atmosphere, so the sight of you walking unescorted through the city streets, clad in Drakkarim armour, stirs his deepest suspicions. You continue walking, and immediately he raises his clawed hand&emdash;it is a signal to his squad to advance and surround you. You turn to run, but when you see that all the Giak soldiers are armed with bows, discretion prompts you to try a different tactic. Boldly you demand that the sergeant take you to the Slavemaster and, to your relief, he agrees.</p>
- <p>The sergeant, and a handful of his troops, take you towards the centre of the city, to a solitary tower standing in the middle of an open square. It is a curious building, tall and unbent, its surface free from any sign of decay. The sergeant speaks with another who guards its open entrance and immediately he stands aside, allowing you to enter the tower's gloomy ground floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346"><link-text>Turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta>
- <title>298</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skill enables you to detect that the creature outside your cabin door possesses magical abilities. You also sense that he, or she, is not emitting an aura of hostility.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to open your cabin door, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you decide to ignore the knock, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta>
- <title>299</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike your killing blow, laying open the great beast's throat. It rears up, shuddering, its green eyes rolling wildly in their sockets. Then it gives vent to a hideous, gurgling scream that grows louder until, with a mighty splash, the Xargath topples backwards into the fog-wreathed sea.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217"><link-text>Turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta>
- <title>300</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dawn arrives, its hazy light barely brightening the banks of grey cloud that swirl above this bleak and desolate land. The rain has ceased but the cold wind still blows strongly, bringing patches of frost that whiten the stony soil. You check your equipment and take stock of your provisions before setting off towards a distant line of hills. You are aware that the dawn light has increased the chances of your being found by a Giak patrol should you stay too long in any one place, especially so near to the shore.</p>
- <p>It is nearly noon when finally you reach the top of the ridge and stare down at the valley that lies beyond. It is a barren landscape of endless pits and crags, jagged boulders and scree. A rough, foot-worn track follows a stream that winds its way back to its source, deep among a towering range of mountains that dominates the horizon. Using your <a idref="map">map</a> and your Kai tracking and hunting skills, you conclude that the mountains are the north-western tip of the Durncrag Range. Beyond them must lie the Gulf of Helenag and the Darklord naval base of Argazad. A feeling of dread overwhelms you as you realize that more than 300 miles of hostile terrain lie between you and Aarnak, the stronghold where you are to rendezvous with the Slavemaster. Silently you stare at the forbidding mountains and rack your brains for a solution to your predicament. At length, you formulate a new plan of action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta>
- <title>301</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you scour the city below, you spot two possible landing sites. One is an open patch of ground near an iron foundry; the other is the flat roof of a building situated on the bank of the estuary.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to land near the foundry, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you decide to land the Zlanbeast on the roof of the building, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta>
- <title>302</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the seed from your pocket and hurl it down into the darkness. It strikes steel and explodes with a blinding flash, illuminating for an instant the cramped control cabin and the startled faces of the Drakkarim crew. You see that they outnumber you many times over, but at least the flash buys you precious seconds in which to make your escape to the deck above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta>
- <title>303</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Further along the tunnel lies a cavern, empty save for a mass of squeaking bats hanging from the stalactites in the roof. At your approach they begin to panic. They swarm and encircle the rough-hewn walls before diving into a dark crevasse that splits the floor in two. The only exit, other than the tunnel by which you entered, is a passage on the far side of the crevasse. Foul air rises from the dark abyss, laden with a heavy odour that reminds you of maggoty meat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit and the Lore-circle of Solaris, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to approach the crevasse and look for a way to get across, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you decide to abandon the chamber and attempt to retrace your route back to the Giak outpost, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta>
- <title>304</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You squeeze into a space between the rocks and listen to the grind of the wagon's wheels on the rough stone trail as it draws steadily nearer. Then a Drakkar voice cries out: <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Koga! Okim dag nadulheza!</quote></foreign> The sound stops abruptly. You strain your ears for an indication of what the enemy are doing, but all you can hear are muffled voices and the jingle of bridles and bits. Then you hear the Drakkarim escorts leave the trail and dismount close to where you are hiding. Your pulse quickens as you realize that they are preparing to strike camp here overnight.</p>
- <p>Fortunately, because they are deep inside their own territory, the Drakkarim do not bother to inspect their surroundings and your presence goes undetected. You listen intently to their conversations but discover little useful information except that they are from Argazad and are on their way to the outpost at the mouth of the Durncrag Pass. After eating, they settle down to a session of gambling. They have been playing for only a few minutes when one of the Drakkarim is accused of cheating. A violent argument breaks out and bloodshed is averted only when their commander, a sergeant, steps in to break it up. He finds a fistful of cards wedged up the accused Drakkar's sleeve. Angrily, he denounces the cheat and orders him to return to Argazad at first light. The game is brought to a close, and, as the disgruntled Drakkarim get ready to sleep, a bold plan springs into your mind that could make your journey through the Darklands and your entry into Argazad much easier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta>
- <title>305</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The still water is set to boiling by the shoal of glistening fish, as they swarm around the Intrepid. They have been drawn here by the warmth of the ship's hull, and as you stare down into the seething turmoil, you estimate that there must be hundreds of thousands of fish directly beneath the keel. You watch with fascination until you recall something about the sea carp that you learned when you were a novice at the Kai monastery, something that sends a tingle of premonition down your spine.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="166" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="166" />
- </illustration>
- <p>The tales and legends of the northern seas tell of the Xargath, a fearsome breed of giant reptilian sea creature that inhabits the black depths of the Kaltesee. Once, a century ago, the fishermen of Sommerlund trawled these waters and grew rich on the fruits of their labours, for the sea carp were plentiful and the markets of Sommerlund and Durenor paid highly for their catch. Trade thrived until the Xargath appeared and began to attack their boats. So devastating were the attacks, and so terrifying were the descriptions of the Xargath by those fortunate few who survived them, that all fishing in these waters was abandoned and has never been resumed.</p>
- <p>A swarm of sea carp, as huge as that which now surrounds the Intrepid, is sure to attract a hungry Xargath. You turn to look for the captain, to warn him of the danger his ship is in, when suddenly the shoal cease their thrashing and fall silent and still.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta>
- <title>306</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the blow that seals the creature's doom, it disappears, leaving no trace whatsoever. Gnaag roars his anger and lopes awkwardly towards the Transfusor, desperate to recall his fellow Darklords to the Black City. You block his path and feel an eerie force&emdash;a tingling electric coldness&emdash;pass between you. With an unholy scream, Darklord Gnaag unsheathes his sword, Nadazgada, and prepares to engage you in a battle that will determine the destiny of Magnamund.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="200" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="200" />
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you possess the Dagger of Vashna or Helshezag (the sword of Darklord Kraagenskûl), and wish to use either of them, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you possess none of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta>
- <title>307</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fatigue of your ordeal is dulling your senses and making it increasingly difficult to keep your eyes open, so, using your Backpack for a pillow, you settle down and slip readily into a deep sleep. However, it seems as though you have only just closed your eyes when a strange snickering sound stirs you to wakefulness.</p>
- <p>Crouching at the entrance to the cave, and silhouetted by the flashes of storm lightning, is a hulking creature with yellow, cat-like eyes. It emits a hungry growl and leaps at your prone body, hoping to crush you beneath its huge bulk. But your reflexes thwart its aim&emdash;you roll aside and jump to your feet as it hits the ground, which shudders beneath the vast stone weight. Quickly the creature recovers and leaps once more, its hairy, lipless mouth opening in anticipation.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Egorgh</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed of its attack you are unable to make use of a bow. This creature is particularly susceptible to psychic attack; double all bonuses you would normally receive if using Mindblast or Psi-surge during the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta>
- <title>308</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stoop over the body of the dead guard and search quickly through the pockets of his robe. They contain two items: a Black Key and a Black Cube.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not possess this skill, you may take either or both of the Backpack Items, or leave them undisturbed, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta>
- <title>309</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin the ship's wheel to starboard and pray for the wind to fill her sails and carry her clear of the first enemy vessel. Anxiously, you glance at the second ironclad steaming directly towards the stern with unnerving speed, its deck crammed with more troops poised to leap aboard. At first, the Intrepid responds to the rudder and you feel her swing about. But the escape is short-lived: the Drakkarim have secured her with hooks and ropes and she cannot break free.</p>
- <p>With a shuddering crash, the ironclad rams the side, knocking everyone off their feet. You are sent reeling across the deck as the enemy craft ploughs deep into the hull, demolishing the steerage and carrying away a large section of the stern. Icy water thunders into the hold and immediately the ship begins to founder.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Darg ash ruzzar!</quote></foreign> bellow the enemy as they climb towards the deck, jostling and bullying each other in their eagerness to begin the battle. Their leader, a bull-necked brute armed with dirk and scimitar, is the first to appear at the rail. He pulls himself on to the deck and comes rushing forward, his eyes wide with blood-frenzy as he prepares to strike you down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you have a bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you possess the Sommerswerd and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you choose to draw a hand weapon and ready yourself to receive his attack, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta>
- <title>310</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knight, silhouetted by the glow of the harbour lights, presents you with an easy target. Silently, you draw an arrow to your lips and send it burrowing deep between the plates of black steel that protect his spine. He stiffens, then collapses in a heap by the parapet wall. A quick search of his body uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>60 Kika (equivalent to 6 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Bottle of Wine</li>
- <li>Pouch of Tobacco</li>
- <li>Pipe</li>
- <li>Iron Key</li>
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above items, remember to record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">To continue, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta>
- <title>311</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Three times you struck a blow and three times a Giak heart beat its last. Now, without pausing even to catch your breath, you take off along the trail and begin the steep climb towards the cliff top. Angry shouts and curses echo in your wake, alerting another party of Giaks on the cliffs above to your presence. They race to the end of the trail and await your appearance, determined to catch you and then kill you at their leisure. You sense the danger and leave the steep trail at the first opportunity. You wait for your pursuers to pass, then double back to the beach. By the time the Giaks realize that you are no longer climbing the trail, it is too late for them to catch up; you are on the beach, more than a mile away to the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta>
- <title>312</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still shaking from the shock of this encounter, you examine the ghastly creature carefully, using the tip of your weapon to lift back its many folds of rubbery grey flesh. It is equipped with two sets of snake-like fangs, both of which ooze a sticky yellow fluid. Your senses tell you that this fluid is a deadly venom, capable of killing a victim in a matter of seconds. Whoever placed this Plaak in your cabin was attempting to assassinate you.</p>
- <p>You flick the remains of the creature under your bunk. As you rise to your feet, you hear a loud, intermittent whistle sounding on the deck above: it is the signal that Helgedad has been sighted by the lookout. With your heart pounding at the thought of seeing the Darklord's most infamous stronghold for the first time, you leave your cabin and ascend to the level above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta>
- <title>313</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes the creature's ear but it fails to penetrate the ear canal. Instead it is spun away by a ridge of horny scales and arcs harmlessly into the sea. Cursing your misfortune, you reach for a hand weapon as the Xargath advances unceasingly, its jaws widening as it prepares to swallow you whole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta>
- <title>314</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Death Knight sergeant has a reputation for cruelty that is matched only by his wanton greed. He is used to total obedience from his troops, and when you fail to answer his command he becomes suspicious. Arrogantly, he swaggers towards you and repeats his command, his hand reaching casually for a barbed whip which he carries holstered on his hip. It is too late to attempt an escape, but the fear of what may happen serves to sharpen your survival instincts. As you stare into his cruel eyes, you sense that all is not lost: he may let you pass if you offer him a large bribe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you possess some Kika and wish to offer them as a bribe, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you possess some Gold Crowns and wish to offer them as a bribe, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you possess a Medal and wish to offer that as a bribe, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta>
- <title>315</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your highly developed senses detect that something is rising from the depths of the crevasse, something huge, hungry and hostile.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you have a bow and wish to take aim at the crevasse, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to unsheathe a hand weapon and get ready to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you decide to escape from the cavern while you can, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta>
- <title>316</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage services a staircase that ascends to the surface. You climb the stairs and emerge in a gloomy square flanked by four tall towers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Divination, and have reached the rank of Archmaster, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>
- </choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta>
- <title>317</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you search the bodies of the Drakkarim. You discover the following items which could be of use to you during your mission:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>3 SWORDS (Weapons)</li>
- <li>2 AXES (Weapons)</li>
- <li>2 DAGGERS (Weapons)</li>
- <li>1 BOW (Weapons)</li>
- <li>4 ARROWS (Weapons list)</li>
- <li>1 ROPE (Backpack Items)</li>
- <li>1 POUCH OF HERBS (Backpack Items)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>While searching the officer's body, you discover that he is wearing a vest of chainmail beneath his leather battle-jacket. It is forged from links of a strange, blue-black metal that gives off a strong aura of magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you wish to take this magical chainmail vest, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you choose not to take the vest, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>
- </choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta>
- <title>318</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you strike the killing blow, Kraagenskûl emits a howl so loud that it shakes the very foundations of the building, a howl that conveys his total despair and eternal damnation. He falls, yet as he does so, his withered frame vanishes before your eyes. A tattered grey robe and a flickering black sword are all that mark the place where his doom was sealed.</p>
- <p>Quickly you leave the chamber by a stair that leads to the roof. The Zlanbeast, Kraagenskûl's personal winged mount, sniffs the air and shuffles along its perch with a nervous, rolling gait. It senses that you are its natural enemy and it is determined to resist your attempts to subdue it. More than an hour elapses before you have control over the creature, and can climb into the saddle without it trying frantically to hook and gouge you with its great curved claws. You pull on the reins and urge the beast skywards, eager to leave this port of evil, but no sooner has it cleared the roof than you are engulfed by a squadron of screeching Kraan swooping down from the night sky. They have flown all the way from Kaag, a Darkland fortress to the south, after being alerted to your presence here by Darklord Gnaag. Valiantly you fight to defend your life, but the odds are overwhelmingly against you. The Kraan drag you from your saddle and you meet your doom upon the hard, unyielding cobblestones of Argazad harbour.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta>
- <title>319</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sharp Kai reflexes save you from the spinning blade. It arcs over your head and scrapes the side of the cannon, drawing a line of sparks along the barrel before splashing harmlessly into the sea.</p>
- <p>Acting on instinct, you grab the rear of the cannon and swing it around to face the onrushing Drakkarim marines. Their faces freeze in terror when they find themselves staring into the muzzle of their own formidable, doom-dealing machine. <quote>Death to the Darklords!</quote> you cry, and pull the firing lever.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta>
- <title>320</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You walk through the armoury, and past an arsenal of fiendish devices that have yet to be unleashed on the allied armies of the freelands, but are destined soon to be shipped to the battle front to speed Gnaag's conquest of Magnamund. A passage at the far end of the hall takes you past a barracks-like room where Nadziranim sorcerers are busily engaged in the testing of new psychic weapons upon a group of grey-skinned slaves, mindless Grolth from the swamps of the Tadatizaga. Their pitiful screams of agony make your blood run cold, yet you dare not intervene to prevent their torture for fear of jeopardizing your mission. Hurriedly you climb a staircase that emerges at the foot of a monstrous tower, as black as death itself. Two fireballs split open the rolling black clouds and in the brilliance of their explosions you see a huge metallic flag flying from the tower's crystal spire. It is emblazoned with the emblem of Darklord Gnaag, and at once you know that you have found what you are looking for: the Tower of the Damned.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You have found what you have been<br />looking for: The Tower of the Damned</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="692"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="692"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As your eyes move down the tower, you notice a large oval platform jutting out from the black steel wall. Perched on this platform is an Imperial Zlanbeast, similar to the one that bore you to Aarnak. It, too, bears Gnaag's sign, branded deep in its leathery hide. Its presence suggests that its master is in residence, and as you cross the courtyard and walk towards the tower door, your senses tingle in anticipation of the confrontation that awaits you within.</p>
- <p>As you climb the steps that lead to the door, it slides open to reveal the outline of a guard silhouetted against a background of scarlet fire. In a claw-tipped hand he holds several slivers of crystal, each a different colour, and, as you reach the top of the steps, he draws a silvery-grey one and points it at your face. <quote>State your name, minion of Ghanesh!</quote> he commands, <quote>or begone from the Tower of the Damned.</quote></p>
- <p>You sense that the guard does not suspect you of being an imposter, he is merely performing a routine check on all who visit the tower. To have come this far into the Imperial Sector means that you have passed through several checkpoints already, and so the guard does not regard you as a threat to his master's safety. In order to be allowed to pass, you must state the name of the Liganim whose identity and robe you are using as a disguise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to say your name is Cagath, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>
- </choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you wish to say your name is Morgath, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta>
- <title>321</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist aside and the arrow thuds harmlessly into the deck. The archer bares his teeth as he reaches for another arrow, but before he can fire again, his aim is spoiled by two of his comrades, who rush forward to hack at you with axe and sword. Davan protects your back, holding off the marines who are attempting to climb the stairs. You evade the first blows of your enemies, sidestepping a lunge and ducking a wild swipe, then strike back with deadly speed and unerring accuracy. Both scream and fall simultaneously, dying with a look of surprise fixed on their cruel faces.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta>
- <title>322</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures on the ramp, whom the Giaks were overseeing, pay no attention whatsoever to the deaths of their guards. Mechanically they continue their toil as if incapable of any other function. Quickly you check the bodies for anything of use, and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>3 Swords</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Pipe</li>
- <li>40 Kika (equivalent to 4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Whip (Backpack Item)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to amend your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta>
- <title>323</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stare at the ruins, a strange feeling of unease engulfs your body; at the same time a nervous energy makes your skin tingle and fills your mind with disturbing images. Your highly developed mind skills are sensitive to the psychic residues of events that took place here two thousand years ago.</p>
- <p>This land once belonged to a colony of creatures called the Nebora, a sentient race of winged men who evolved during the Golden Age of the Shianti. The city of Neboran, the core of their civilization, was located here on what was once a rich and fertile coastal plain. The demise of the Shianti heralded the rise of the Darklords in Northern Magnamund, and the beginning of the War of Desecration in which the Nebora, and many other races, were exterminated. This ruined tower is all that remains of the wondrous city of Neboran where, in the year MS3250, the entire Nebora race were trapped and slaughtered by the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta>
- <title>324</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you draw an arrow from your quiver and set its notch to your bowstring. The light of the fireball explosion has long since faded and in the gloom you find it difficult to pinpoint your target with great accuracy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add any missile bonuses to which you are entitled. If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, and have reached the Kai rank of Archmaster, add an additional 3 points to your total.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta>
- <title>325</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night wind is blowing in your favour and Captain Borse is keen to put to sea without delay. He has ordered the crew to run up every foot of canvas the masts of the Intrepid will bear, so that she will approach the Darklord warships that blockade the coast at full speed. With luck, she will slip through their line before they have a chance to close formation. It is a bold plan, but the captain and his crew have run the blockade more than a dozen times in the past year and they are confident that tonight they will also be successful.</p>
- <p>Guided by the stars and the distant glimmer of the moonlit shore, the Intrepid makes rapid headway through the waters of the Toran Gulf. As it nears the open sea, you decide to offer your services as a lookout and go in search of Captain Borse. You find him on the forecastle deck with a group of keen-eyed Kirlundin marines, who are scanning the blackness for some sign of the enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Archmaster, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta>
- <title>326</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With trepidation, you peer through the thick and grimy glass of a hull porthole and gaze upon the awesome spectacle that is Helgedad. Perched upon an isle of granite at the centre of a vast, fiery chasm stands the mighty city-fortress, the very core of a cancer that threatens to infect and destroy all that is good in Magnamund. Great walls of black steel encircle it, giving rise to a thousand spiky towers and turrets which harbour the masters and the minions of darkness. Above the city hovers a seething pall of black smoke that keeps it forever in shadow. Fed by the fumes from the volcanic craters of the Naogizaga, this cloud is made all the more noisome by the foul discharges of the Nadziranim laboratories, the weapon furnaces, and the hellish breeding pits at the base of the chasm.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="164" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="164" />
- </illustration>
- <p>Irregularly the darkness is lit by fireballs that seem to form spontaneously among the black vapours. They spin and soar above the city like demonic meteors, before exploding or simply melting away in a rain of sparks. A bridge of twisted black steel joins Helgedad to the wastelands beyond, and as the Lajakeka slowly grinds its way across this span, you look down into the fiery depths of the Nengud-kor-Adez, the Lake of Blood, and your courage quails at the terrible sight that meets your gaze.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta>
- <title>327</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tide is carrying you towards a long, grey cliff line, made ominous by the flickering glow of burning battle debris. A flock of ugly black birds circle overhead. They dive repeatedly to retrieve carrion, then soar away to their nests in the cliff wall. Two of the evil-looking creatures swoop down on you, mistaking your still form for a ready feast, and attempt to tear the skin from your face with their razor-sharp beaks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, and have reached the Kai rank of Primate or more, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, you can attempt to defend yourself with a bow: <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">Or you can fend them off with a hand weapon: <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta>
- <title>328</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow a cobblestoned alleyway and soon arrive at a large square, flanked to the north, south and west by warehouses, yet dominated by a smaller building on the east side. Its granite walls are festooned with black flags bearing the emblem of a silver ship and fiery sword, and atop its flat roof there sits a huge, winged creature with mottled grey skin&emdash;an Imperial Zlanbeast. You watch with grim fascination as the beast feeds from a pile of horse carcasses stacked beside its perch. Then a daring thought comes to mind. If you could reach the roof of the building and steal the Zlanbeast, it would be possible to reach Aarnak by air in a matter of hours, rather than the days it would take by land or sea.</p>
- <p>After riding once around the building to assess its defences, you leave your horse tethered to a rail near a side entrance and approach the only door that appears to be unguarded. It is locked, but the crude drawbolt that secures it proves no match for your basic Kai skill of mind over matter. The bolt clicks back, the door swings open, and you enter the building unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta>
- <title>329</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your considerable psychic powers, you raise a shield to deflect the energies that are assaulting your mind. Taktaal shrieks with anger and surprise as he senses that you are not what you appear to be. He has seen through your disguise and your true identity shocks him to the core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta>
- <title>330</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For the following two days and nights the Intrepid remains a prisoner of the windless fog. Davan and his crewmen work tirelessly to repair the ship, and come the morning of the third day, when a gentle breeze arises with the dawn, the main mast is secure and the sails are patched and ready to carry the ship onward. With the port side still holed and storms a constant threat in the open reaches of the Kaltesee, it has been decided that the safest course to steer is towards the coast. Then, should a sudden squall threaten, or a gale arise, the ship could run to shelter in one of the hundreds of coves that indent the rugged shore east of Point Vashna. However, to sail along this stretch of coastline is to risk hazards that could prove as dangerous as any storm. Darkland ironclads, unstable in high seas, favour the coast when venturing to and from their base at Argazad, and the cliffs and shores themselves are peppered with watchtowers and Giak encampments.</p>
- <p>By early afternoon the fog has cleared and the Intrepid is making good headway through the cold, sparkling waves. League after glittering league fall away to the stern until, an hour or two before sunset, the lookout catches sight of the coast. <quote>Land ahoy!</quote> he calls. <quote>Land afore the bow!</quote> The crew are cheered by the news, feeling safer now that they are within sight of land, but their spirits are soon dampened when the lookout calls out again, this time in alarm. <quote>Enemy off the starboard bow!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta>
- <title>331</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without the magical protection afforded you by the Golden Amulet, you soon succumb to the hellish temperatures and poisonous atmosphere of Helgedad. As your skin begins to blister and your lungs become paralysed, you fight desperately to hold on to life, but it is a fight you cannot hope to win.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here, beneath the streets of Helgedad.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta>
- <title>332</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning reactions save you from being hit by the heavy boom but you cannot avoid the burning canvas. In a matter of seconds you are completely engulfed in an envelope of fire and smoke. Instinctively, you fight to free yourself, then suddenly you realize that your clothes are unaffected by the blaze, and that the tongues of fire licking your hands and face cause you no pain whatsoever. Without haste or urgency you cast aside the blazing sailcloth and emerge completely unscathed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta>
- <title>333</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The winged reptilian tries its best to prevent you from climbing on to its back. It lunges with its beak and you suffer several painful wounds before finally managing to subdue it to your will: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Once the creature accepts you as its new master, it becomes totally obedient to your commands. You settle back in the comfortable saddle, then pull on the great gem-encrusted reins and urge it skywards. The roof of Kraagenskûl's headquarters, and then Argazad itself, fall away at a breathtaking speed as the creature climbs into the night sky. High above the ironclad fleet, you turn the Zlanbeast towards the west and begin your flight to Aarnak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta>
- <title>334</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A great cloud of dust and debris billows from the gaping hole, and as it slowly begins to clear, you see that most of the enemy warriors have been swallowed up by the collapsing deck. Beyond the hole you glimpse Davan, with a handful of the crew, defending the stern deck against an attacking swarm of Drakkarim, who outnumber them by at least two to one. Then you realize the enemy plan: if they can capture the helm they will be able to steer the Intrepid towards the coast and beach her in the shallows.</p>
- <p>Quickly you climb into the rigging and swing across to the stern deck by means of a trailing rope. Davan sees you and gives a cheer as you jump from the rope and land among the enemy. You unsheathe your weapon and begin cleaving a path towards your beleaguered allies, who shout encouragement as you draw nearer. <quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, and they take up your battle call. Then Davan's voice rings above the noise of battle: It is a cry of warning&emdash;<quote>Archer above you!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance upwards and a cold spike of fear stabs your heart. Staring down at you is the gloating face of a Drakkar. He holds a bow in his hands, and prepares to fire an arrow at your head. He mouths a curse, then lets fly his deadly shaft.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you have completed the Lore-circle of the Spirit, add 3 to the number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If your total is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>
- </choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta>
- <title>335</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giak groans and clutches at his wounds as he staggers backwards and crashes down upon the barrels and cases. Curious to discover what they are transporting, you roll his body aside, prise open the largest crate, and rummage through the contents. It is filled with Giak and Drakkarim uniforms, enough to dress a hundred troops. The other cases contain an assortment of weapons and other military equipment, and the barrels are full of a wine too foul to even think of tasting. Then an idea springs to mind, an idea that could make your passage through the Darklands much easier and greatly increase the chances for your mission's success.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta>
- <title>336</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow strikes the Drakkar horseman but wounds him only superficially, merely grazing the side of his neck. However, the sudden pain makes him cry out and snatch the reins to his chest. His startled horse rears up on its hind legs, throwing its rider to the ground. You drop your bow and draw a hand weapon before leaping upon the prone Drakkar, determined to finish him before he has a chance to recover.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta>
- <title>337</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first blow shatters the skull of one bird, sending it cartwheeling wildly across the surface of the sea before finally death stills it. The remaining bird shrieks in alarm, but rather than take fright and fly away, it hovers above you as if waiting for the right moment to strike. With a chilling caw, it darts towards you, determined to exact its revenge for the death of its mate.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The sea-scavenger darts towards you</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="666"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="666"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Sea-scavenger</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">10</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not Psi-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta>
- <title>338</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature smiles, bows, then shuffles away along the corridor, a quiet sniggering sound issuing from his thin mouth as he makes his way towards an iron-runged staircase. You watch him disappear up the stairs, then you close and lock your cabin door. Tired and hungry, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before you can settle down to sleep.</p>
- <p>After several hours, you awake to the sound of a loud click, barely audible above the increased din of the Lajakeka's engine, and at once you sense that your cabin door has just closed. Swiftly you rise from the bunk and rush to the door, hoping to catch a glimpse of whoever, or whatever, gained access to your room while you were asleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, and have reached the Kai rank of Mentora or higher, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta>
- <title>339</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quarters turn out to be cramped and smelly, sandwiched between the ship's galley and the bilge. Despite the lack of space, and a stomach-churning smell redolent of dead fish, you manage to snatch a few hours' sleep before you are awoken by a grey dawn haze filtering through the grimy glass of the cabin's solitary porthole.</p>
- <p>Up on deck the captain stands alone at the forecastle rail, scanning the empty horizon through his telescope. You join him and take the opportunity to deliver the envelope you are carrying.</p>
- <p><quote>'Tis a brave and risky venture you've committed yourself to, comrade,</quote> he says, his grey eyes devouring the words of the parchment, bearing the seal of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, which he finds folded inside. <quote>Yet these be risky times. I can only surmise what lies beyond your journey to Dejkaata, but of one thing you can be sure&emdash;I will do all in my power to see you safely there.</quote></p>
- <p>Immediately he issues orders to turn the ship about and steer a new course&emdash;north-by-north west. The crew react to the sudden change of plan with great speculation, yet, despite the dangers they know they may face, none challenge their captain's decision or voice dissent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241"><link-text>Turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta>
- <title>340</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spring forward and strike a blow that would have decapitated a mortal creature. But the moment your weapon hits Taktaal's flesh, it disintegrates in a flash of sparks. The Darklord laughs as he closes his clawed hands around your throat and squeezes the life from your body.</p>
- <choice>Tragically, your life and your mission end here in the Tower of the Damned.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta>
- <title>341</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to dodge the spinning blade, but you trip over the body of the dead Drakkarim gunner and the sword hits you squarely in the chest. White-hot pain engulfs you like a raging fire, burning your body and numbing your limbs. It reaches its zenith, then disappears as, reluctantly, you surrender to death.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your mission end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta>
- <title>342</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn to run but your exit is blocked by a squat, horny-skinned creature with baleful, milky-coloured eyes. These eyes roll like balls of mist inside its head as it advances on you slowly, an axe of black steel held in its clawed hands, poised to strike you down.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Xaghash advances towards you,<br />its axe poised to strike you down</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="620"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="620"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Xaghash</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>If you possess the sword, Helshezag, and wish to use it, remember to add the appropriate bonuses to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta>
- <title>343</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow sends the Ictakko spiralling towards the ceiling, twisting and weaving like a punctured balloon. It crashes into a cluster of stalactites, impaling itself on the spear-like formations and dislodging them with the impact of its vast weight. For a fleeting second, you glimpse the creature's ghastly features&emdash;its pear-shaped horny head and bulb-tipped antennae; its spider-like abdomen and transparent wings&emdash;before it plummets into the cold, inky darkness of the crevasse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta>
- <title>344</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature strikes and you dive aside, inches from a gruesome death in its powerful jaws. Snapping repeatedly it twists its supple neck to follow your escape across the shattered, body-strewn planks, and lunges again when you reach the stairs that lead to the stern deck. This time you save your skin by pulling yourself into the rigging, and, as you are climbing aloft, you see the Xargath crash through the stairs and into the hull. It tries to withdraw its head but it cannot: it is held firm, trapped among the splintered timbers. This may be your only opportunity to defeat this terror before it breaks free and drags the ship to the bottom of the sea.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to attack the Xargath while its head is trapped in the wreckage, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to avoid combat by hiding in the crow's nest, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta>
- <title>345</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tube proves difficult to remove from its mounting, but you manage to prise it loose with a strip of steel which you find lying at your feet. You invert it and reconnect its copper cables, but the moment that the last cable is brought into contact, there is a blinding flash of white light and you are engulfed by a blast of flame and twisted metal. Your act of sabotage has set off an explosion which has completely destroyed the ironclad juggernaut and half of Argazad harbour, but it has cost you your life and sealed the doom of Magnamund.</p>
- <choice>Your life and your quest end here.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta>
- <title>346</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A curved steel door slides shut, sealing the entrance, and plunging the gloomy chamber into total darkness. Then a narrow column of yellowy light pours on to your head, and a man's voice, loud and full of arrogance, shatters the silence.</p>
- <p><quote>What brings you here, Drakkar?</quote> he booms, filling the chamber with resounding echoes. He speaks a curious dialect of Giak that sounds vaguely familiar. It is a dialect common in Magador, a border territory now occupied by Darkland armies. <quote>I seek the Slavemaster,</quote> you answer. <quote>I have come from Argazad to report that Sommerlund is burning!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>That is welcome news indeed,</quote> comes the reply, in a tone far less severe.</p>
- <p>The steel door slides open and your Giak escort are dismissed. As it clangs shut behind them, the light grows brighter until you can see clearly the man to whom you have just spoken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta>
- <title>347</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon just in time to meet your enemies' attack. They swarm around you, howling with primal fury, their teeth bared and their faces contorted by hatred, as they raise their swords to cut you down.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Drakkarim Marines</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta>
- <title>348</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Liganim draws level with your hiding place then halts. Suddenly a tingling sensation ripples your scalp, as a wave of psychic energy washes over your mind. The Liganim turns his head and holds you with his cruel gaze, probing your thoughts. He finds what he is looking for: you are an imposter. He gives a high-pitched shriek and snatches a dagger from his belt as he hurls himself maniacally upon you.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Liganim</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen, deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point at the beginning of every round of combat, owing to the creature's persistent psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta>
- <title>349</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your speedy dispatch of the guards buys you precious time in which to escape from the outpost and disappear among the rocks and crags that line the roadway through the pass. Loudly the alarm bell echoes between the walls of solid rock, its dreadful clang reverberating in your head. You run for more than an hour before the sound fades completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta>
- <title>350</title>
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect350-1-foot" idref="sect350-1">
- <p>The next book in the Lone Wolf series is entitled <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only a circle of fire-scorched steel marks the spot where Darklord Gnaag finally met his doom. You look upon this patch of twisted metal and your spirits soar with the realization that you have defeated your arch-enemy in mortal combat. But your mission is yet to be completed. Quickly you remove the Crystal Explosive from your Backpack and approach the Transfusor. You place it in position, next to a shaft connected to the Lake of Blood from which the device draws its power. Once the crystal is primed, you hurry out of the chamber through the archway by which Gnaag entered. Guided by your instincts, you find your way around the tower to the oval landing platform, and to the means of escape from the Black City which awaits you there&emdash;Gnaag's Imperial Zlanbeast.</p>
- <p>You are high above the city, steering the reluctant Zlanbeast eastwards to Aarnak, when the crystal detonates. Within moments it starts a chain reaction, which destroys the Transfusor, reduces Helgedad to a fiery holocaust of shattered granite and twisted steel, and brings about the rapid demise of the Darklords and their armies scattered throughout Magnamund.</p>
- <p>Your victory is total. At last you have fulfilled your destiny to avenge the Kai and rid your land of the evil that has threatened her for thousands of years. You return to Sommerlund a conquering hero, and, as Kai Grand Master, you begin the task of restoring the Kai to their former glory. The chronicle of your struggle against the Darklords will pass into legend, inspiring future generations of Kai warriors to keep alive your ideals of bravery, skill and selfless courage. Yet the saga that is the story of your life does not end here. In future times the chronicle will tell of the adventures you undertook during your Kai Grand Mastership. Until the time comes for their telling, may the Gods Ishir and Kai watch over you, Grand Master Lone Wolf, hero and saviour of Sommerlund.<a id="sect350-1" idref="sect350-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta>
- <title>Sommerlund &ersand; the Darklands</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html"/>
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta>
- <title>Action Chart</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="266" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="aclore.gif" width="385" height="199" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="192" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="113" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Combat Rules Summary</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta>
- <title>To Evade Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta>
- <title>Combat Results Table</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta>
- <title>Random Number Table</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif"/>
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex"/>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta>
- <title>Errata</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta>
- <title>Introduction</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta>
- <title>Errata List</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>nadziranim</quote> with <quote>Nadziranim</quote>. Replaced <quote>Koura-tas-Kai</quote> with <quote>koura-tas-kai</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the words from the language of Dessi (i.e. <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">koura-tas-kai</foreign>, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Ikar</foreign>, <foreign xml:lang="x-dessi">Skarn</foreign>). Replaced <quote>giak legions</quote> with <quote>Giak Legions</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="lorecrcl">Lore-circles of the Magnakai</a>) Capitalized <quote>bonuses</quote> in the title <quote>Lore-circle Bonuses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> with <quote>their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>eg,</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Replaced <quote>bow string</quote> with <quote>bowstring</quote> and <quote>three rounds or less</quote> with <quote>four rounds or less</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>throughfares</quote> with <quote>thoroughfares</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>half-closed</quote> with <quote>half closed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>Tok</quote> with <quote>tok</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Reordered the first and second choices at the end of the section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced <quote>Discipline</quote> with <quote>Disciplines</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>crystalizes</quote> with <quote>crystallizes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) Changed the option that lead to <a idref="sect97">Section 97</a> to lead to <a idref="sect297">297</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>) Replaced <quote>side-stepping</quote> with <quote>sidestepping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>awe-struck</quote> with <quote>awestruck</quote>, <quote>balista</quote> with <quote>ballista</quote>, and <quote>balistas</quote> with <quote>ballistas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>lop-sided</quote> with <quote>lopsided</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote>Aye!'</quote> with <quote>Aye!</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>Dsicipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>nadziranim</quote> with <quote>Nadziranim</quote> and <quote>Helgenag</quote> with <quote>Helenag</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) Replaced <quote>Kaltese</quote> with <quote>Kaltesee</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replace <quote>Plain</quote> with <quote>Plane</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>war horn</quote> with <quote>war-horn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>disciplines</quote> with <quote>Disciplines</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-lust</quote> with <quote>bloodlust</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>youself</quote> with <quote>yourself</quote> and <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>gold braided</quote> with <quote>gold-braided</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>fireswept</quote> with <quote>fire-swept</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Reordered the choices at the end of the section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect169">169</a>) Replaced <quote>Pathmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>watertight</quote> with <quote>water tight</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Replaced <quote>sword, Helshezag, and</quote> with <quote>sword Helshezag and</quote> and <quote>Zejar-deluga</quote> with <quote>Zejar-dulaga</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect177">177</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Replaced <quote>Pathmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>icy-cold</quote> with <quote>icy cold</quote> and <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>) Replaced the second and third occurrences of <quote>Argazad</quote> with <quote>Aarnak</quote>&emdash;surely the naval base (Argazad) doesn't supply itself.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>) Merged the second and third paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect210">210</a>) Replaced <quote>eventaully</quote> with <quote>eventually</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-stained</quote> with <quote>bloodstained</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Reordered the choices at the end of the section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>heavily-guarded</quote> with <quote>heavily guarded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>bow string</quote> with <quote>bowstring</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect238">238</a>) Replaced <quote>Zejar-Dulaga</quote> with <quote>Zejar-dulaga</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect240">240</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote> and reordered the first and last choices at the end of the section.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced <quote>early-morning</quote> with <quote>early morning</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect273">273</a>) Replaced <quote>Pathmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>Shadow shapes</quote> with <quote>Shadow-shapes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>) Replaced <quote>queuing</quote> with <quote>queueing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>transfusor</quote> with <quote>Transfusor</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>fatique</quote> with <quote>fatigue</quote> and <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect321">321</a>) Replaced <quote>side-stepping</quote> with <quote>sidestepping</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>) Replaced <quote>bow string</quote> with <quote>bowstring</quote> and <quote>weapon skill</quote> with <quote>missile</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>clifff</quote> with <quote>cliff</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>) Replaced <quote>creatures's</quote> with <quote>creature's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta>
- <title>Footnotes</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">Section 5</a>) Be aware that these choices originally read <quote>three rounds or less&ellips;</quote> and <quote>longer than four rounds&ellips;</quote>. We've arbitrarily changed the first choice to read <quote>four rounds or less&ellips;</quote>, erring in the reader's favour.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">Section 61</a>) Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">Section 145</a>) This loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is permanent. (cf. <a href="&link.07cd;"><cite>Castle Death</cite></a> Section 129)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">Section 159</a>) The Bronin Vest may be worn with a Padded Leather Waistcoat, but not with a Chainmail Waistcoat.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">Section 162</a>) Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect179">Section 179</a>) You may still risk taking the Black Cube if you wish.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">Section 184</a>) Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">Section 187</a>) The Zejar-dulaga occupies the same space in your quiver as a normal arrow. If you have 6 arrows, you may discard one in favour of the Zejar-dulaga.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>) If you only possess the Kai Discipline of Hunting&emdash;not Huntmastery&emdash;you may no longer hunt for food as you venture deeper into the Darklands.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">Section 221</a>) Crowns or Lune may not be used in lieu of Kika in this instance.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>) The next book in the Lone Wolf series is entitled <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta>
- <title>Table of Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta>
- <title>Primary Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect7">Section 7</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect23">Section 23</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect50">Section 50</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect60">Section 60</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect81">Section 81</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect94">Section 94</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect110">Section 110</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect129">Section 129</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect158">Section 158</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect170">Section 170</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect184">Section 184</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect216">Section 216</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect226">Section 226</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect260">Section 260</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect264">Section 264</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect278">Section 278</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect295">Section 295</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect320">Section 320</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect337">Section 337</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect342">Section 342</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Sommerlund &ersand; the Darklands</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta>
- <title>Secondary Illustrations</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect6">Section 6</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect38">Section 38</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect57">Section 57</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect74">Section 74</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect100">Section 100</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect101">Section 101</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect113">Section 113</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect150">Section 150</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect187">Section 187</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect196">Section 196</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect305">Section 305</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect326">Section 326</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta>
- <title>Project Aon License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta>
- <title>0. Preamble</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta>
- <title>1. Definitions</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta>
- <title>1.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta>
- <title>1.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta>
- <title>1.2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta>
- <title>1.3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta>
- <title>1.4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta>
- <title>1.5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta>
- <title>1.6</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta>
- <title>1.7</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta>
- <title>2. Terms of Distribution</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta>
- <title>2.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta>
- <title>2.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta>
- <title>2.2</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta>
- <title>2.3</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta>
- <title>2.4</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta>
- <title>2.5</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta>
- <title>3. Termination of the License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta>
- <title>3.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta>
- <title>3.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta>
- <title>4. Jurisdiction</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta>
- <title>4.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta>
- <title>5. Revision of the License</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta>
- <title>5.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta>
- <title>6. NO WARRANTY</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta>
- <title>6.0</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS <quote>AS IS</quote> WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta>
- <title>6.1</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-</gamebook>
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-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.3 2005/03/26 16:22:12 jonathan.blake
-Adding Illustrator Transcription credits that went missing since
-The Masters of Darkness
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:15 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.12 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.11 2003/01/27 21:53:41 jblake
-Checkin prior to making global change to footnote structure.
-
-Revision 1.10 2003/01/09 20:41:40 jblake
-Added small12 and minor validity corrections.
-
-Revision 1.9 2003/01/08 16:30:00 jdougan
-- Added Peter Smyth to "Special Thanks" (for providing primary illustration captions)
-- Cross-check against posted //non-errata// mistakes (trying to ensure that nothing was missed)
-- inserted code for large illustrations
-- placed all small illustrations except for small12 (which, per SOSBORNE, does not appear to have a good place to go)
-- updated tables of illustrations
-- added footnote to Section 15 for riddle solution. (The other correct riddle explanation provides a correct answer, and the obvious incorrect answer makes it obvious that the solution is incorrect.)
-
-Revision 1.8 2003/01/07 00:30:28 jblake
-Errata corrections and general cleanup.
-
-Revision 1.7 2002/11/12 18:53:00 jblake
-Fixed validity errors.
-
-Revision 1.6 2002/11/06 01:14:00 jdougan
-- attempted reasonable link for 14TCoK in front matter and section 350.
-- dougan note to jblake: should we renumber the versions in which validity errors have been corrected and no other changes made to, e.g. 1.4.1? Or is that possible with your version control tools?
-- created section structure (without prev/next links) for Combat Rules, ranks, and improved disciplines
-- replaced all relevant ' with '
-- corrected proofreader errata as noted.
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/10/31 18:21:36 jblake
-Corrected validity errors.
-
-Revision 1.4 2002/10/31 18:10:00 jdougan
-- Inserted escape sequences for emdash (48 occurrences) and endash (18 sections)
-- Pasted backmatter from TPoT; removed data from errata, lists, etc.
-- put in <quote></quote> where appropriate
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/10/31 16:49:23 jblake
-Corrected validity errors.
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/30 20:36:07 jdougan
-- Inserted paragraph delimiters throughout front matter
-- linked all front matter occurrences of Action Chart
-- Marked all front matter occurrences of COMBAT SKILL and ENDURANCE with <typ></typ> markup
-- Began to insert <section><data></data></section> structure into front matter. (incomplete)
-- Linked all front matter occurrences of the random number table
-- Noticed that none of the Grand Master Disciplines have the usual "if you choose this skill..." paragraph. Should we add these?
-- Entered the credits (transcription, XML, Proofreading)
-- front matter is missing the "how to carry" section - something seems a little wonky in general. closing out the currently open data and sections, then sending it back to Jon.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 06:49:07 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
-Pending errata - TPLOR
-
-(3) Under Bows and Arrows, page 33, do we add 3 or 5 to numbers we pick from the RNT?
-
-==>JDOUGAN: I can make the case both ways, but suspect that it should probably be +3.
-
-(4) {JDOUGAN} The example combat has a major mistake, adding +3 CS for using Kai-surge - this gives a wrong Combat Ratio, with consequently wrong EP losses for both participants. What's the best way to fix it?
-
-Section 127: First sentence doesn't make sense grammatically.
-
-Secction 133: pathsmanship > Pathsmanship ?
-
-Changes made:
-<li>The Story So Far: Changed <quote>Ragador</quote> to <quote>Ragadorn</quote></li>
-<li>How to Use Your Equipment/Weapons: Amended the text to correctly reflect the +5 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for Grand Weaponmastery</li>
-<li>Section 2: Changed <quote>Extermius</quote> to <quote>Exterminus</quote></li>
-<li>Section 7: Changed <quote>crease</quote> to <quote>cease</quote></li>
-<li>Section 7: Changed <quote>fowards</quote> to <quote>forwards</quote></li>
-<li>Section 24: Changed <quote>agarashi</quote> to <quote>Agarashi</quote></li>
-<li>Section 24: Changed <quote>it red eyes</quote> to <quote>its red eyes</quote></li>
-<li>Section 31: Changed <quote>agarashi</quote> to <quote>Agarashi</quote></li>
-<li>Section 35: Changed <quote>as it they were</quote> to <quote>as if they were</quote></li>
-<li>Section 41: Changed <quote>suface</quote> to <quote>surface</quote></li>
-<li>Section 41: Changed <quote>aproaches</quote> to <quote>approaches</quote></li>
-<li>Section 47: Changed <quote>eg</quote> to <quote>i.e.</quote></li>
-
-==>jdougan: in context, this is the proper abbreviation - we want "that is", not "for the sake of an example", because the list provided is complete
-
-<li>Section 50: Changed <quote>seeth</quote> to <quote>seethe</quote></li>
-<li>Section 106: Changed <quote>youself</quote> to <quote>yourself</quote></li>
-<li>Section 108: Changed <quote>imposter</quote> to <quote>impostor</quote></li>
-<li>Section 110: Changed <quote>agarashi</quote> to <quote>Agarashi</quote></li>
-<li>Section 121: Changed <quote>agarashi's</quote> to <quote>Agarashi's</quote></li>
-<li>Section 127: Changed <quote>gong echoes n some</quote> to <quote>gong echoes in some</quote></li>
-<li>Section 127: Changed <quote>begining</quote> to <quote>beginning</quote></li>
-<li>Section 131: Changed <quote>foward</quote> to <quote>forward</quote></li>
-<li>Section 131: Changed <quote>agarashi</quote> to <quote>Agarashi</quote> in two places</li>
-<li>Section 186: Changed <quote>suface</quote> to <quote>surface</quote></li>
-<li>Section 188: Changed <quote>Grand Mastery</quote> to <quote>Grand Nexus</quote></li>
-
-==>JDOUGAN: Based on the text of section 203, this is probably what was intended
-
-<li>Section 220: Changed <quote>0&endash;2 turn</quote> to <quote>0&endash;2, turn</quote></li>
-<li>Section 223: Changed <quote>Unforturnately</quote> to <quote>Unfortunately</quote></li>
-<li>Section 256: Changed <quote>creatures snarls</quote> to <quote>creature snarls</quote></li>
-<li>Section 266: Changed <quote>flame, Two</quote> to <quote>flame. Two</quote></li>
-<li>Section 277: Changed <quote>stength</quote> to <quote>strength</quote></li>
-<li>Section 310: Changed <quote>lifiting</quote> to <quote>lifting</quote></li>
-<li>Section 320: Changed <quote>suddeness</quote> to <quote>suddenness</quote></li>
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>The Plague Lords of Ruel</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>2</month><day>1</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the warrior Lone Wolf&emdash;Kai Grand Master of Sommerlund. You have defeated the Darklords of Helgedad and avenged your murdered ancestors, but now you are challenged by a sinister evil which threatens to destroy all life on your home world of Magnamund.</p>
- <p>In <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> your mission is to prevent the malevolent Cener Druids of Ruel from releasing a deadly plague virus that will destroy all but their own kind. Of all the warriors of Magnamund only you can thwart their wicked plans&emdash;for only you possess the disciplines of a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1990 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1990 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1990 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1990 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta><title>Table of Contents</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Mel</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Matthew Reynolds</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Action Charts</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Daniel Nash (Sections 71&endash;105) <br />Simon Osborne (Frontmatter, Sections 1&endash;70, 106&endash;140, 176&endash;350) <br />Tony Wrigley (Sections 141&endash;175)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan<br/>Christopher Lundgren<br />Ingo Klöcker<br/>Simon Osborne<br/>Thomas Wolmer</dd>
-<!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd></dd>-->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Boris Basic<br />Martin Ryland<br />Peter Smyth<br />Jason Thomas</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of your élite warrior caste.</p>
- <p>It is the year MS 5075 and twenty-five years have passed since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar, the King of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund, have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain&emdash;the Darklands&emdash;and caused the destruction of their leader, Archlord Gnaag, and the core of their cancerous power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Northern Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, most notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war, which allowed the Freeland armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Skilfully their commanders exploited the chaos and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
- <p>For five years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction, the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and you have begun the task of training a Second Order of Kai warriors so that the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors will be carried forward in the centuries to come. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possess latent Kai skills and show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai monastery and organized the training of the Second Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded and, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose to their new-found responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the monastery, one hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power that you had recovered during your quest for the Magnakai. It was here, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, that you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors&emdash;Banedon and Rimoah&emdash;you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master Disciplines and grasp the fundamental secrets of left-handed and Old Kingdom magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now, for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
- <p>At this time many changes were also occurring beyond the borders of Sommerlund. In the regions to the north-east of Magador and the Maakengorge, the Elder Magi of Dessi and the Herbwardens of Bautar were working together in an effort to restore the dusty volcanic wasteland to its former fertile state. It was the first tentative step towards the reclamation of all the Darklands. However, although they had had notable successes in these regions, generally their progress was painfully slow and both parties were resigned to the fact that their efforts to undo the damage caused by the Darklords would take not years but centuries to complete.</p>
- <p>In the far west, the Drakkarim had retreated to their homelands and were engaged in a bloody war against the Lencians. Much of Nyras had been reclaimed by the armies of King Sarnac, the Lencian commander, and his flag now flew over a land which, two thousand years ago, had once been part of Lencia.</p>
- <p>Following the destruction of the Darklords of Helgedad, the Giaks, the most prolific in number of all of Gnaag's troops, fled into the Darklands and sought refuge in the gigantic city-fortresses of Nadgazad, Aarnak, Gournen and Kaag. Within each of these hellish strongholds there exists now a state of frenzied civil war as remnants of the Xaghash (lesser Darklords) and the Nadziranim (evil practitioners of right-handed magic who once aided individual Darklord masters) fight for control. By virtue of their geographic locations, and the struggles taking place within them, each of these city-fortresses is isolated from the next and poses no immediate threat to the peoples of the Free Kingdoms. It is widely believed that by the time the Elder Magi and the Herbalish reach the walls of these strongholds the occupants will have long since brought about their own extinction.</p>
- <p>Elsewhere, throughout Northern Magnamund, peace reigns victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms rejoice in the knowledge that the age of the Darklords has finally come to an end. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of Naar come in many guises and there are those upon Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="195"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="195"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Often, over the past two years, Lord Rimoah has warned you to be wary of one such group. They are known as the Cener Druids and they occupy a small forested realm to the south of the Stornlands called Ruel, which they have made virtually impregnable to invasion through the use of evil herbcraft. Once, long ago, after the defeat of Naar's greatest champion&emdash;Agarash the Damned&emdash;they were used by Naar as agents of revenge. Then they formulated and released a plague that decimated the Elder Magi and left the way open for their conquest of Magnamund. Now the Elder Magi fear that, as before, Naar will use them again to enact revenge for the defeat of his champions. They fear that they will seek to destroy the Second Order of the Kai before it becomes too strong, for your quest for mastery of the Grand Master Disciplines has opened a door to such goodly power that even Naar himself may be unable to counter it. Unless he closes that door, others of your kind could soon be following in your footsteps.</p>
- <p>Already the Elder Magi have petitioned the courts of all the Freeland rulers, beseeching them to act immediately and destroy the Cenerese before it is too late. Many of the kingdoms they have visited unwittingly harboured secret sects of Cener Druids who practised their vile herbcraft, often in remote areas. Sommerlund was one such land. Only a year ago, a sect of Cenerese was found in the foothills of the Durncrags engaging in blood rituals at a site less than a day's ride from the Kai monastery. News of this prompted action which brought about a scourge of the Lastlands and forced many Cenerese sects to flee to the safety of Ruel. The regular armies of three nations&emdash;Palmyrion, Lourden, and Slovia&emdash;are now encamped around its border in an attempt to contain the Cener threat. They remain watchful, but that is all they can hope to do. The Cenerese are too powerful within their own domain for the Freeland armies to dare launch an invasion. One such attempt has already ended in disaster. Six months ago an allied force numbering seven thousand men entered the Forest of Ruel, intent on storming the Cenerese fortress of Mogaruith and razing it to the ground. Seven thousand men went into the forest; only seventy returned alive.</p>
- <p>Despite the vigilance of the three Freeland armies, the containment of the Cenerese threat within Ruel has not been entirely successful. To the south, the Cenerese can enter and leave their realm by means of tunnels which honeycomb the Skardos Mountains. These secret passages emerge in the free state of Caron, at the northern edge of the Rootstrangle Swamp which, in due course, drains into the Tentarias (the great waterway which divides the northern and southern continents of Magnamund). Once access to the Tentarias has been achieved, the Cenerese are virtually free to sail to any port or country of their choosing. Caron is helpless to prevent the Cenerese from using this route through their land. They are a poor nation with few resources, and the Rootstrangle Swamp is one of the most difficult places to patrol. It comprises a constantly shifting morass of mud flats and rotting vegetation, inhabited only by Tzargs&emdash;a carnivorous race of frog-like animals originally bred by the Cenerese for the sole purpose of guiding them through the swamp's ever-shifting channels.</p>
- <p>On midsummer's day, Lord Rimoah arrived at the monastery without, as was customary on such occasions, any forewarning of his visit. His unexpected appearance surprised the other Kai and caused them to speculate in whispers about the reasons for his journey. Yet his coming was of no surprise to you. For days you had experienced a feeling of unease, a presentiment that your orderly life at the monastery was about to undergo a dramatic change. Rimoah brought with him a glass phial of pale green liquid, a liquid that was proof-positive that the Cenerese were indeed preparing to enact Naar's revenge upon the Free Kingdoms of Magnamund.</p>
- <p>The phial had been found among the possessions of a Cener Druid who had been caught in the city of Ragadorn after having been followed there by a watchful Herbwarden from Bautar. Under interrogation, the Cener revealed that he had been sent to Ragadorn by Arch Druid Cadak, the ruler of Ruel, to distribute the phials of this liquid to agents sympathetic to the Cenerese cause. The Herbwarden had sent the phial to Dessi where the Elder Magi, upon analysing the liquid, discovered it to be a powerful vaccine against a new and complex plague virus. Judging by the composition of the vaccine, this plague virus would prove to be several times more lethal than the Great Plague which had so devastated their race thousands of years ago. The Cener succeeded in taking his own life before he revealed further details, but, judging from the evidence in their possession, the Elder Magi were convinced that the Cenerese are getting ready to unleash an airborne plague virus that could kill all the living creatures of Magnamund, save those that had ingested the vaccine.</p>
- <p>Rimoah informs you that the Elder Magi are unable to replicate the vaccine in huge quantities, and even if they were so able, to distribute it to every living creature on Magnamund would be an impossible task.</p>
- <p><quote>The Herbwardens are sure that the Cener they found in Ragadorn was one of the first of those sent out of Mogaruith to distribute this vaccine,</quote> said Rimoah, his voice uncharacteristically sombre. <quote>Therefore we must act quickly if we are to destroy the virus before Cadak is ready to release it into the atmosphere. Someone must enter Mogaruith. They must find and destroy the plague virus, and they must ensure that this evil work can never again be resumed.</quote></p>
- <p>For a long moment you stood in silence staring into Rimoah's unblinking eyes. Then, with a nod of your head, you acknowledged what had to be done. Only a Kai Grand Master possesses the skills and experience that would be essential to the success of this vital mission&ellips; and there is only one Kai Grand Master.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For five years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1-12), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 13. These scores may include Lore-circle bonuses. You may also benefit from the Disciplines that you've mastered (e.g. Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses).<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Book 13 onwards):</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Dagger of Vashna</li>
- <li>Silver Bracers</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Helshezag</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- <li>Korlinium Scabbard</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6-12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13-20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature's sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the gods Kai and Ishir go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered four of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart.</a></p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in two of the weapons listed below.<a id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title>Magi-magic</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros&emdash;the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and artifacts.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the first of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.14tcok;">Book 14</a>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline, your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <a href="&link.14tcok;"><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite></a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you leave the monastery and begin your long journey to the land of Palmyrion, you take with you a <a idref="map">map of the Dark Realm of Ruel</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1-12), you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows: record them on your weapons list.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>4 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Item)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Carry Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Axe&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Spear&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta>
- <title>How Much Can You Carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a quiver and at least one arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns. The currency of Palmyrion is the Lune, but Gold Crowns are readily accepted at an exchange of 4 Lune for every 1 Gold Crown.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35-30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
-
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
- <p>The nature of these additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Grand Master Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master's Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission to enter the Cenerese stronghold of Mogaruith and destroy the deadly plague virus will be fraught with deadly danger. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for the inhabitants of Ruel are sworn enemies of the gods Kai and Ishir.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will find during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all, so try to be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your four Grand Master Disciplines with care, for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this first Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>The prevention of the spread of a deadly Cenerese plague virus, and the subsequent deaths of untold millions, depends on the success of your mission. May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you venture into the darkness of Ruel.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Grand Master&ellips; the quest must begin without delay for time is not our ally,</quote> says Lord Rimoah, as he paces nervously back and forth across the flagstoned floor of your monastery chamber. You voice your agreement and call upon your wise friend to counsel you as best he can about the mission you have undertaken. Not entirely to your surprise, you learn that he has already made preparation, confident in the knowledge that you would agree to this dangerous quest. He has arranged for you to travel to the Freeland of Palmyrion where a guide is waiting to escort you to Ruel. The guide can guarantee safe passage to the borders of the dark realm, but no further.</p>
- <p>Rimoah tells you that little is known of Ruel, save that the unnatural forest which surrounds and protects the Cenerese stronghold of Mogaruith harbours creatures that are the stuff of nightmares. Some almost defy description. The poor wretches who survived the last ill-conceived, ill-fated invasion of Ruel, spoke of their encounters with gigantic, acid-spitting worms that rose up out of the ground without warning and devoured whole regiments of their comrades at a single stroke. They told also of the battles that were waged against ferocious packs of disease-ridden rat-creatures they called <quote>Vazhag</quote>. The Cenerese breed these sentient vermin in warrens deep below Mogaruith, then release them into the forest to patrol and gather food for even viler abominations that rarely venture beyond the walls of their stronghold.</p>
- <p><quote>Truly I wish that I were able to tell you more, Lone Wolf, but so little is known of Ruel. It is a dark and sinister place. Yet, there is something else, something that I can give you which will aid your quest,</quote> says Rimoah, and he holds out his hand. In his palm is the phial of green liquid, the vaccine that will, at least, protect you from the plague which threatens to destroy so much of your beloved world. You take it, uncork it, then quickly swallow the bitter contents. Unexpectedly your stomach rebels and a wave nausea rises up which makes you slap a hand over your mouth. A few moments later the nausea fades and you are able to remove your hand and speak.</p>
- <p><quote>How long will it protect me?</quote> you ask, queasily.</p>
- <p>Rimoah smiles. <quote>Oh, I'm sure you will be safe for some considerable time, Lone Wolf. I'm afraid I forgot to mention that the phial contained a concentrated vaccine, more than sufficient to protect a hundred men!</quote></p>
- <p>Within the space of a few short hours you are ready to begin your long journey south to Palmyrion. Having entrusted the monastery to the care of your Kai Masters, you and Lord Rimoah leave by means of a secret tunnel, one of several that you have had constructed to enable you to enter and leave the monastery unobserved. You emerge in a clearing at the heart of the Fryelund forest, at a place where Guildmaster Banedon is waiting patiently to welcome you aboard Skyrider, his flying ship. Here you take time to bid farewell to Lord Rimoah, who will await your return at the monastery, before climbing aboard and placing yourself in the charge of your old friend Banedon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wrench yourself free from the creature's grip and stagger towards the antechamber, but Cadak is not prepared to allow you to escape from his creation so easily. From the tip of his staff there erupts a stream of thorny vines that wrap themselves around you and bury their barbs deep into your flesh: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. You struggle desperately to break your cruel bonds as Exterminus closes in for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The knife's tip draws a crimson line across your left shoulder before it hits the wall and rebounds with a metallic clang: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The Vazhag, its confidence boosted by the wounds it has caused you, draws another knife and comes waddling across the chamber, screeching maniacally. Raising your weapon you turn to face your foe as it launches its desperate attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Fat Vazhag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a thin, gurgling scream, the Cener clutches at his fatal wounds and slides slowly down the cavern wall. As he crumples on the floor, he raises his hand and, in a last defiant gesture, he lunges out to scratch at your leg. You step back and avoid the sharp, cat-like claws which have suddenly sprouted from the tips of his gloved fingers, and these poisoned barbs eject their venom harmlessly upon the dusty floor.</p>
- <p>Once you are sure that the druid is no longer alive, curiosity prompts you to prise away his green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-pocked face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the cavern you decide to search him and his Vazhag escorts, and you discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>16 Lune (equivalent to 4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">To continue, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The warrior clasps his wounds and exhales his last breath as he tumbles lifelessly to the floor. Standing over his still body you use the tip of your weapon to prise open the visor of his iron helmet. You reveal the brutal features of a Drakkar, one who had survived the downfall of the Darklords and had counted himself fortunate to have found refuge here in Mogaruith. Sadly for him he had not reckoned on ever crossing your path.</p>
- <p>You conceal the bodies of the Drakkar and his hound as best you can before pulling the portal closed and continuing your exploration of Mogaruith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden rush of pain and nausea makes you drop to your knees (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), leaving you shivering fitfully. Your psychic Magnakai Disciplines were insufficient to protect you against the physical effects of the powerful mind probe which you have just experienced, but they were at least able to shield your true identity.</p>
- <p>The light, reflected from the Cener Mask you are wearing, activates a sensor and as you rise to your feet you see the great metal door begin to slide open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your power upon the scuttling horde and try to bring them under your control. They do not respond to your commands and, at once, you sense that they are under a spell that has robbed them of all free will. You draw on your inner strength and attempt to break this spell, and the creatures cease their frenzied movement with an abruptness you find unnerving; it is as if they have suddenly turned to stone. Now that you can see them clearly they remind you of beetles, save that they are far larger and have long, rat-like tails. You observe them for a few moments longer, then take a tentative step forwards. Instantly they burst into life, only this time they do not confine themselves to the forest floor.</p>
- <p>With a sound like a thousand squeaky door hinges, they sprout wings and soar into the air in a formation which resembles a small black cloud. Soon they have left the clearing, and as you watch the last of them disappear over the tops of the trees, you can only hope that they are not some form of lookout employed by the Cenerese.</p>
- <p>On the far side of the clearing you discover that the trail continues deeper into the forest. You follow it for nearly an hour until your keen senses warn of danger ahead and immediately you halt in your tracks. You hear a movement: it is above and behind you. With incredible speed you spin on your heel and raise your weapon to parry a possible attack. Your reactions are fast, but they may not be quick enough to protect you from what lurks in the canopy of branches high above.</p>
- <p>From out of the darkness there falls a wriggling mass of thorny creepers that come snaking towards your head as if driven by a single mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you crouch down and take cover beside the staircase, hidden from view by the shadows and your Kai camouflage skills. Within seconds the Vazhag appear, but they are not alone. They are being led by a frog-like Tzarg which they have tethered on a chain. The Tzarg has its face pressed close to the steps and it is snuffling and snorting like a bloodhound as it tries to locate your scent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If you possess Grand Mastery of Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you possess Animal Mastery and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you have neither of these Grand Master Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trusting to your Magnakai skill of Invisibility, you leave your hiding place and attempt to slip past the wagon and its struggling escort.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Mastery of Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you follow the track into the deepening gloom, your senses alive to the evil that permeates every root and branch of this forbidding forest. As darkness closes in there arises from out of the mire a mist, grey-green and sickly, which smothers the ground. Its corpse-like chill leaves you shivering, despite all your efforts to shield yourself from its clammy touch.</p>
- <p>Night no longer restricts your vision and, as the track ascends towards a wooded peak, you see the outline of a ruined stone watchtower perched atop a rocky knoll. You sense that the tower is deserted and, keen to escape from the mist, you climb towards a crack in its granite base. You crouch to enter the jagged breach and, in doing so, you disturb a host of crab-creatures nesting within. In a frenzy they scuttle away from the tower, disappearing among the surrounding rocks in the blink of an eye.</p>
- <p>Aching with fatigue, and mindful of the perils which still lie ahead, you settle yourself into a corner of the rubble-strewn tower and try to snatch a few hours of sleep. This night your slumber is disturbed by strange and unwholesome dreams, formed from the fears suppressed by your conscious mind. You are haunted by phantom shapes which take the form of friends and fellow countrymen. Kai initiates under your tutorage and simple Sommlending folk, their heads bowed and their faces pitted and disfigured by plague, drift past you in a seemingly endless procession.</p>
- <p>You awake with a start, your pulse racing and your forehead glistening with beads of sweat. At first a sense of hopelessness washes over you, brought on by the vivid memory of your nightmare but, as your consciousness returns, so too does your inner strength. You perceive the dreams as a warning of what will happen should your quest fail, and this realization strengthens your resolve to reach Mogaruith and thwart the Cener's evil plan.</p>
- <p>You have slept for several hours and, physically at least, you feel refreshed (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). In the half-light of early morning you gather together your equipment and weapons in readiness to resume your perilous journey to Mogaruith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of scraping metal and rattling chains echoes in your ears as you fell the creature with a deadly blow to the base of its skull. As it falls from its stool, you spin around, weapon in hand, and the first thing you see is the knife-like glint of fangs. From a semicircular hole in the wall a pack of war-dogs come charging into the hall, their jaws agape and their claws scrabbling on the shiny flagstones as they race towards the desk. You raise your weapon confidently and brace yourself in readiness to meet their attack.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A pack of war-dogs with jaws agape charges into the hall.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="613"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="613"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Ruel War-dogs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The columns of armoured rat-men pay little attention to you, but your undead charge does elicit squeals of disgust from some as you draw closer to their mighty stronghold.</p>
- <p>Walking across the age-blackened drawbridge towards the spiky arched tower of Mogaruith is an unnerving experience. It is as if you are walking along a blackened tongue towards the gaping throat of some gigantic dragon. On either side the bubbling moat releases foul fumes which fill your nostrils with a terrible sugary stench that clogs your lungs and blurs your vision. You draw upon your Magnakai skills and your vision clears, but the sight which lies ahead looks no more inviting than it did before.</p>
- <p>At the tower you are challenged by a troop of Vazhag guards who regard your companion with a distaste that is all too obvious. Using your Magnakai Disciplines of Animal Control and Pathsmanship to aid your deception, you inform them that you have come from the south on urgent business. They demand to know your name and why you have charge of an undead human. You try to bluff them but you notice that the zombie's presence is beginning to attract the unwanted interest of other Vazhag guards.</p>
- <p>One of the rat-men pushes his snout to within inches of your mask and says, to your surprise, that you can enter Mogaruith so long as you first register your arrival. He points to a door in the tower wall and asks you to enter it. <quote>There,</quote> he says, <quote>you can make your registration.</quote></p>
- <p>Immediately your Magnakai sense of Divination warns that the Vazhag is lying; a prison cell awaits you beyond that door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to do as the Vazhag requests and enter the door, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you refuse to enter the door, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you decide to attempt to distract the Vazhag guards, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the blow that brings one of the fearsome monsters crashing lifelessly to the ground, you spring away from its gore-stained carcass and barge shoulder-first through the line of screeching ghouls. The spectacle of the fallen Giganite, and the suddenness of your action, has taken the creatures by surprise. Before they can react you have already sprinted to within a few yards of the leafy tunnel.</p>
- <p>You glance over your shoulder to see the shambling horde falling over themselves in their haste to give chase. The sight raises your spirits but the sensation is short-lived, for above them towers a Giganite, its mouth full of bubbling phlegm. With a flick of its powerful neck it sends the massive spit-ball arching towards your fleeing form.</p>
- <p>Instinctively you throw yourself to the ground and the foul missile whooshes past, hitting a tree at the base of its trunk. At once there is a sizzling sound and, with a creaking groan, the tree is brought crashing to the ground, its base eaten clean away by the acidic saliva. Great droplets of the spittle splash your tunic and instantly it begins to smoulder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With ease, you sidestep and dodge your way through the throng of hungry Vazhag, and escape undetected into the empty passage which lies beyond the iron portal. A few minutes later, as you are exploring this new tunnel, you hear the squealing cease as the great door closes with a rumbling boom.</p>
- <p>The passage continues eastwards for several miles and, with the exception of an occasional Vazhag sentry, it is virtually deserted. At length you arrive at the entrance to another hall smaller than the lava-cavern but equally as crowded. Daylight streams into this hall through a large archway guarded by armoured Vazhag, and pairs of horny-skinned war-dogs which they hold on the leash. Beyond the archway you can see a track that disappears towards a distant ridge of hills.</p>
- <p>Directly above the archway, you notice a thin ray of sunlight streaming through a window-like hole in the rock. Sorely aware that the main entrance is so heavily guarded that it will be very difficult, even for someone as gifted as yourself, to escape that way undetected, you resolve instead to escape by means of the smaller opening in the rock wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect15-foot-1" idref="sect15-foot">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the combination lock riddle in Sections <a idref="sect158">158</a> and <a idref="sect227">227</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Szalista,</quote> you say, the ancient Cenerese word meaning <quote>fifteen</quote>, and immediately you hear the door's locking mechanism disengage itself.<a id="sect15-foot" idref="sect15-foot-1" class="footnote" /> There is a hiss of escaping air and the heavy portal swings slowly inwards on massive hinges.</p>
- <p>Without hesitation, you step through the doorway and enter the circular tunnel beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage descends steeply and the foul air becomes thick with a gritty dust which clogs your eyes and nostrils. Although the pitch blackness does not hamper your vision, the air has become so saturated with dust that you now have difficulty seeing more than a few feet in front of your outstretched hands. Slowly you advance, trusting to your Magnakai skills to protect you from choking as you seek a clearer section of the passage.</p>
- <p>After a while you notice long streamers of greasy yellow moss hanging from cracks in the tunnel roof. Between them are spread festering fungi of varying hues, all cankerous and vile to the eye. You are passing beneath these growths when suddenly, as if triggered by a silent command, they burst open and shower you with great clouds of sticky, mote-like spores.</p>
- <p>At once your body senses that the spores are highly poisonous and, as a subconscious reflex, your Magnakai Curing skills activate and counter the deadly toxins that have found their way into your lungs. Your chest is wracked with pain but you sustain no serious injury: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The sticky, foul-smelling spore cloud is so thick that you have difficulty moving forwards. It feels as if you are wading through a tunnel of mud. Your Kai skills have neutralized the poisonous spores, but there is now hardly any air left to breathe. Fear wells up in your stomach as you feel your strength beginning to ebb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you possess some Baylon's Fungi, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>There is only one who could withstand the fire of this wand &ellips; Kai lord,</quote> he spits, still pointing at you with his flame-tipped staff.</p>
- <p><quote>And I rejoice that fate has brought you here to me, Lone Wolf. Your doom is sealed. Turn around and meet your nemesis!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your killing blow severs the creature's body, the two halves explode, scattering shards of mummified remains all around the chamber. The force knocks you backwards and, as you fall, you catch a glimpse of a wispy, ghost-like shadow, rising towards the ceiling. It halts for a moment in mid-air, then it seeps through the solid stone ceiling like smoke through a veil.</p>
- <p>Before leaving the chamber you pause to search the stone casket. Inside you discover a few mouldering rags and a Copper Key (if you wish to keep this Key, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack item).</p>
- <p>Cursing your ill luck, you leave the chamber and head towards the laboratory door. On the other side of it you discover a series of narrow passages which eventually end at an antechamber. This domed chamber is decorated with tapestries which depict Cenerese legends, ignoble and infamous deeds that were perpetuated during the Age of the Old Kingdoms, when, for nearly a thousand years, the Cenerese tyrannized Northern Magnamund.</p>
- <p>A single heavy oaken door in the opposite wall offers the only exit from the antechamber. As you approach it, you notice that it is slightly ajar. Suddenly you hear the doleful sound of chanting emanating from beyond this door. Curiosity prompts you to peer through its narrow opening and, as you do so, a chill runs the length of your spine when you see what lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look down to see that a leafy vine is spiralling upwards around your leg. You summon your powers to repel the plant but your commands appear to have no effect. Then the fearful realization hits you that this is not a vine at all: it is the limb of a bog creature.</p>
- <p>You attack and sever the plant-like tendril, but immediately there is another, then another. With the speed of striking snakes they ensnare your legs and wrench you into the morass. You fight desperately to free yourself as you are dragged deeper into the foul-smelling mire. Repeatedly you strike out below the surface in the hope of dealing your attacker a mortal wound. You feel something burst upon your weapon's tip and, momentarily, the creature's grip falters, but only to recover with renewed strength and tenacity.</p>
- <p>Then sharp pain lances through your thighs as row upon row of barbed claws spring out from the unseen creature's tendrils and puncture your skin. You scream in agony and your cry is echoed from beneath the surface of the muddy pool by the sound of a malicious bubbling laugh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike the blow that seals this creature's doom, it vents a fearful high-pitched shriek that instantly silences the cave-beasts and sends them scurrying for the shadows of their filthy cells.</p>
- <p>Within the blink of an eye the ghostly Pechdrazil evaporates in the air, leaving nothing to mark its existence save the harsh metallic odour of ozone. You wipe your sweat-laden brow with the back of your left hand and glance over your shoulder at the cowering creatures, huddled in their cells. Casually you sheathe your weapon and step forward to stare down the staircase into the gloom below. You focus upon the darkness, but you are unable to discern where the staircase ends.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you decide not to descend the staircase, you can retrace your steps to the junction and continue by means of the north tunnel instead. <link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the top of the stairs you find a dining chamber in disarray. Piles of rubbish are strewn across its tiled floor, gnawed bones cover its tables, and the remains of a small fire are still smouldering at its centre.</p>
- <p>An arched portal in the far wall offers hope of escape into a corridor beyond and you hurry towards it. As you are running across the room, you notice a pile of discarded weapons lying beside a bench. Among the weapons are:</p>
- <p>Dagger</p>
- <p>Sword</p>
- <p>Broadsword</p>
- <p>Bow</p>
- <p>4 Arrows</p>
- <p>Quiver</p>
- <p>If you wish to take any of the above, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">To continue, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The torrent of flaming oil hits you in the face and a wave of pain forces you to your knees. Instinctively you call upon your Magnakai skill of Nexus to extinguish the flames and, within seconds, the oily fire gutters and dies: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The Cener had begun to cackle gleefully, so sure was he that you were doomed. Now his cruel laughter chokes in his throat as, numbly, he fumbles for a weapon to halt your approach. He draws a curvy-bladed knife from a hidden sheath and holds it out unsteadily in front of his chest. You tell him to drop the dagger but he is deaf to your command. He feints a swipe then lunges for your heart, yet you deflect this weak attack with your right forearm and counter it with a left hook to the chin which shatters the druid's glassy green mask. He reels backwards and crashes to the floor, his bony fingers scrabbling his throat. For a moment he writhes around on the dusty ground, then his body stiffens and he lies completely still. Cautiously you step nearer, expecting trickery. Then you see that a shattered fragment of his mask has severed his jugular vein and you know that he no longer poses a threat to your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to search the druid's body, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you search the drawers of the dead creature's desk, sifting through papers and ledgers for clues as to where in Mogaruith the plague virus is being cultivated. The papers yield no useful information, but you do find two small levers set into the desk's surface.</p>
- <p>You examine them closely and your Kai senses reveal that they operate the two metal doors to this antechamber. You flip the right-hand lever and the door by which you entered glides shut. Then you pause for a moment to prepare yourself before flipping the left lever, for this will open the door which leads to Cadak's throne room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Pit Agarashi gives a deafening howl as your killing blow ruptures its black heart. Its powerful body stiffens and its red eyes become opaque, like two orbs of frosted crimson glass. For a moment it remains fixed and immobile, then its claws release their grip upon the rock wall and the beast plummets backwards to crash heavily upon the hard pit floor.</p>
- <p>Breathless with exertion, you sheathe your weapon and force yourself towards the surface, eager to escape lest someone, or something, should come to investigate the creature's death-cry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87"><link-text>Turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a foul, snickering cry the Vazhag swarm into the derelict hut. You sidestep into a corner to prevent them from getting behind you, then raise your weapon in readiness to meet their attack. The leading rat-men throw themselves upon you in a blood-crazed frenzy, hacking and stabbing with their rusty blades, yet you dispatch them in seconds with such precision and economy of movement that it would appear to an onlooker that you had hardly moved at all.</p>
- <p>But for every Vazhag that falls, three more take its place, and within minutes you are in danger of being suffocated to death by the press of their loathsome bodies.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect26-1-foot" idref="sect26-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to an incorrect answer to the riddle in <a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speak your answer several times but nothing happens.<a id="sect26-1" idref="sect26-1-foot" class="footnote" /> You are convinced that your answer is correct and, in frustration, you tap the box on the table repeatedly in the hope of releasing the lid. On the third tap a razor-sharp blade springs from the side and cuts into the palm of your hand: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Cursing the device, you fling it away into a corner and attend to your injured hand. A sudden shuffling noise, somewhere in another part of the library, causes you to freeze: someone else has entered. You look over your shoulder at the door and decide that now would be a very wise time to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the top of the stairs you find a corridor which heads off towards the west before turning sharply towards the north. As you approach the corner you skid to a halt: your senses are warning you of approaching danger. Hurriedly you unsheathe your weapon, but no sooner is it out of its scabbard than a Drakkar warrior comes running around the corner and crashes straight into you, knocking you both sprawling to the ground.</p>
- <p>Quickly you recover but not in time to retrieve your weapon before the Drakkar attacks.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You must fight the first three rounds of this combat unarmed. At the start of the fourth round you are able to retrieve your weapon and fight as normal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Feeling unsettled by your close encounter with the deadly acid-spitting tunnel crabs, you unsheathe your weapon and descend the staircase with renewed caution. Sixty steps later you arrive at a small cavern where three tunnels converge, from the north, the south, and the west.</p>
- <p>There are many tracks on the dusty floor and your Magnakai hunting skills enable you to read them with ease. They are confined to the west and south tunnels and, judging by their size and depth, they were made by large rat-like creatures, but ones that walk upright, like humans. From what you have been told about the denizens of Ruel, you are sure that these tracks were made by Vazhag, the warrior vermin bred by the Cenerese.</p>
- <p>Among their tracks you note others that are far from rat-like. You are about to examine these a little closer when suddenly you hear the sounds of movement echoing from the west tunnel; a group of creatures are approaching. At once you abandon your tracking and look around for somewhere to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you wish to take cover in the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to take cover in the south tunnel, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you choose to hide in the cavern itself, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Acolyte's body falls limply to the platform, you sheathe your weapon and take hold of the ladder which ascends to the winch. All eyes in the hall below are watching your ascent and, when they suddenly realize what it is you are trying to do, pandemonium breaks out. Hysterical screams of anger and fear merge into a dreadful cacophony which fills the hall with clamouring echoes. You glance down at their faces, contorted by rage, and as you do so you glimpse a new threat to your safety.</p>
- <p>A handful of Vazhag archers are scurrying out of the portal which connects Cadak's chamber to the gallery. They spread out along the parapet and begin firing at you with their lacquered bows. Black-fletched arrows whistle past on either side, their barbed heads passing dangerously close to your legs and feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 4 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If your total score is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With trepidation you approach the door, fully aware that you are walking into a trap. Spear-wielding Vazhag hover on either side, alert and suspicious, their tarnished weapons held in readiness to strike should you show any sign of resistance.</p>
- <p>A cell awaits you beyond the door. It seems to be no more than what you expected to find and, as the heavy door is slammed shut, you begin immediately to search for a means of escape before the Vazhag guards return.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, despite its plain appearance, this cell is far more than you expected it to be. It is an extermination chamber, one of several located throughout Mogaruith. It is designed for the speedy destruction of those who would dare to challenge the Cenerese.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a powerful electrical current is fed into the metal floor and you are transfixed as the deadly voltage courses through your body. You fight with all your strength to survive this terrible onslaught but the current is irresistible and, eventually, your body can take no more.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your quest end here in Mogaruith.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You send your Arrow whistling towards the creature's throat. A fatal wound looks certain until, at the very last moment, the beast twists aside to avoid the oncoming shaft and, with a dull thunk, the Arrow skewers its shoulder. The creature roars with pain but the injury does not deter it from attacking. With the knife-wielding Vazhag close behind, it quickly recovers and together they rush forward to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pit Agarashi (wounded) & Vazhag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The Pit Agarashi is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge; only the Grand Mastery of Kai-surge can harm it psychically.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track crosses the plateau and passes within a few yards of the pits before continuing into a tunnel-like gap in the trees beyond. You advance, but every step that brings you nearer to the site causes your senses to rebel. The sensation of evil is so strong here that it clogs your nostrils and makes you struggle for breath. You resolve to run towards the gap but a sudden noise from behind arrests you in mid-step.</p>
- <p>Shambling out of the forest come a horde of monstrous shapes, corpse-like beings that exist in a twilight between life and death. Perched atop their withered bodies are hairless heads bearing lidless, red eyes and gaping maws, rimmed with hundreds of needle-thin fangs. As one they utter a deathly groan and you feel an icy chill electrify your spine.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Corpse-like beings shamble out of the forest, uttering a chilling groan.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="591"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="591"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Fighting to suppress your mounting horror, you turn and run towards the gap. You are within a few yards of the rocky spur when a dozen or more of these fearful creatures appear from the shadows to block your escape. Once more they utter their cadaverous cry and advance upon you from both sides.</p>
- <p>Desperately you survey the plateau for another means of escape, but there is none: you are trapped. The only choice you have is to face the creatures or retreat towards the pits.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to fight these creatures, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you choose to retreat towards the pits, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tapestry depicts a ghastly feast, a banquet attended by demonic creatures who are gorging themselves on human remains. Seated at the head of this unholy feasting table is a bull-like creature who possesses the head and face of a man. From between his bloodstained lips there protrude two fangs, needle-sharp and gleaming. From his seat he looks down upon his loathsome guests with a sneering contempt.</p>
- <p>Your thoughts are suddenly disturbed by a faint sound; someone or something is moving about in the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you crawl through the foliage to a position close by the busy trail. Twenty minutes later you see a wagon approaching and, as it nears your hiding place, you focus your Magnakai powers of Nexus at one of the front wheels, causing it to jam. The ghorkas grunt in protest as the wheel locks and the wagon veers off the track.</p>
- <p>Cursing and squealing, the Vazhag driver jumps down and begins to hammer at the wheel with the butt of its spear, whilst his three wounded companions struggle to quieten the startled ghorkas. Under cover of the confusion, you slip around to the rear of the wagon, using your camouflage skills to minimize the risk of being seen.</p>
- <p>You climb aboard without being observed but you are shocked to the core when you discover the nature of the wagon's cargo.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself into a hollow in the north tunnel wall and wait with bated breath as the sound of the approaching group grows louder and nearer. Torchlight flickers, casting a watery yellow beam across the cavern floor, then the first of the group enters and you catch sight of their repulsive forms. A patrol of six Vazhag file into the cavern. Each one is as tall as a Sommlending youth and all are armed with crude, rusty weapons. Fragments of armour and uniforms, which once belonged to human soldiers, encase their hairy, rat-like bodies. They are more than twenty feet away from your hiding place, but even so, they give off such a vile aroma of filth and disease that you are forced to draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to prevent yourself from retching out loud.</p>
- <p>They halt at the foot of the stone stairs and communicate with each other in a high-pitched squeal which reminds you of rusty door hinges, and repeatedly they cast furtive glances along the west tunnel as if they were waiting for another of their party to catch up. Within minutes, another member of their patrol does arrive, only this creature is not one of their breed: it is human-sized. However, the hooded scarlet robe it is wearing makes it difficult for you to be absolutely sure that the creature within is human.</p>
- <p>The Vazhag cease their squealing when the hooded one raises a gloved hand and motions to the south tunnel. For an instant, you catch a glimpse of the glassy green mask that is covering his face, and at once you recognize this mask: it is a jazak, the ritual mask of a Cener Druid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to ambush this patrol, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you choose to allow them to leave the cavern by the south tunnel, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch nervously as the Tzarg snuffles closer and closer to your hiding place, praying all the while that your Magnakai skills of Animal Control and Invisibility will keep you safe from detection.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If the number is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you slay the last war-dog, a host of squealing Vazhag come pouring into the hall; your pursuers have caught up with you at last. Having chased you for over five miles, the screaming rat-men want only to rend you limb from limb, yet the unexpected sight of the slain war-dogs heaped about your feet immediately cools their bloodlust. Any warrior who could defeat half a dozen of these hellish creatures deserves to be treated with some respect!</p>
- <p>You hear them muttering, then, from among their ranks comes one dressed in contrast to its brethren, cloaked completely in a brown hooded robe. It pulls from a pocket a sphere of glass which is filled with a speckled swirling vapour and, with a curse, it hurls this fragile sphere at your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you possess Deliverance, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you do not have this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a terrifying wail the three creatures rise above you and stretch wide their powerful jaws. Defiantly you face them as they flex their coils and steady themselves to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Ruel Giganite</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">80</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect13">These creatures are susceptible to all forms of psychic attack. When their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score has been reduced to 36 or less, you can elect to evade combat by <link-text>turning to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With incredible speed you unshoulder your Bow and draw an Arrow to your lips. Then, almost instantly, you release the straining bowstring and send the shaft burrowing deep into the creature's body, killing it instantly. The force of the impact lifts it out of its hollowed stool and sends it crashing to the floor where it wobbles back and forth grotesquely, like a giant fleshy egg, before coming to rest on its side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a roar of agony, the Degradon crashes forward, forcing you to leap aside to avoid being pinned beneath its loathsome carcass. Breathless and shaking with the fatigue of this deadly combat, you lean against the wall and survey your surroundings.</p>
- <p>Before you stretches a cavernous hall, lit by the glow from fire-filled orbs hanging by chains from the ceiling. Facing each other are two rows of stone statues which form a grotesque corridor leading to an archway on the far side. Although they are human in shape, extreme expressions of pain and despair twist and contort their faces.</p>
- <p>You advance cautiously. You are wary of the statues and your body is tensed to react should they show the slightest hint of animation. Fortunately your caution is unnecessary and you are able to reach the archway and leave the hall without further incident. A short passage leads to a junction where a wider corridor crosses from left to right. Your skin prickles in reaction to the concentration of evil you detect in this subterranean part of Mogaruith, and silently you call upon your creator, the noble god Kai, for protection and guidance before continuing.</p>
- <p>Instinct prompts you to turn left, and within a few minutes you arrive at a chamber where a vast staircase of black marble ascends to many levels, lost in the gloom above. Opposite this grand staircase stands a large door, carved from a solid sheet of strange green metal, the like of which you have never seen before. It gives off a pulsating radiance which washes over the empty chamber, illuminating symbols carved into the walls and floor. You focus on these symbols and, in a chilling moment of realization, you decipher their meaning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two rat-men have only just finished their meal when a group of Vazhag, accompanied by a red-robed Cener Druid, enter the cave through an archway on the far side of the lake. The Cener directs the Vazhag to man a large capstan-like device and, as they work this creaking hoist, slowly the drawbridge begins to descend. The moment it is fully lowered the druid and his escort come shuffling across the bridge in single file. They are about halfway over when there is a bubbling rush of water and the surface of the lake begins to seethe, as if it is boiling. A sudden fear grips the Vazhag. They freeze in their tracks, twitching and squealing fitfully as they stare aghast at the frothing water. Then the Cener screams at them to retreat and they scurry back the way they came, with the two you saw earlier close on their heels.</p>
- <p>The first ones to make it back scamper to the capstan and begin to reverse it as quickly as they can. You see the bridge-ropes tighten and, with a tortured creak, the heavy wooden bridge rises off the platform. Fearing that you could be left stranded on the wrong side of the lake, you rush forward and leap for the underside of the rising drawbridge.</p>
- <p>Like a limpet you fix yourself to its damp timbers as the bridge approaches the vertical. However, before the bridge is fully retracted, the Vazhag abandon the capstan and flee through the archway, unaware that you are clinging to the underside of the bridge. For a moment you are relieved that the rat-men and their druidic master have disappeared, for you had not relished the thought of them discovering you in such a vulnerable situation. Unfortunately, your relief is short-lived, for within seconds of their disappearance you find yourself face-to-face with the object of their terror.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295"><link-text>Turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scream in pain as an arrow skewers your left wrist. The agony of the wound and the shock of the arrow's impact cause you to lose your grip and, in a terrifying instant, you fall from the chain and plummet headlong towards the floor of the hall below. Death is mercifully swift.</p>
- <p>Your incredible bravery has brought about the destruction of the plague virus, and the druids who knew the secrets of its cultivation. This destruction has saved millions from a terrible death, and the selfless courage you displayed in bringing this about will never be forgotten by the free peoples of Magnamund. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for your victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here in the plague hall of Mogaruith.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Even though your Bow and quiver are covered by your druid's robe, you retrieve them and are ready to fire at the fleeing Vazhag before either has taken a dozen paces. In lightning succession you draw and fire two Arrows, sending the shafts thudding into the backs of the two rat-men with unerring accuracy. Simultaneously they crash to the ground and lie still.</p>
- <p>Your swift dispatching of the Vazhag has gone undetected and, anxious that it remains so, you rush forward to drag their bodies away into the undergrowth. Within minutes the task is complete.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, you still have to find a way of entering Mogaruith. Yet, as you return to the trail, you are struck by a bold idea. Calmly you approach the zombie, who has remained stationary throughout the incident, and stoop to retrieve the poor creature's chain. Then, with pounding heart you turn and slowly walk along the trail towards the crowded drawbridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon your mastery to weave a multi-layered fabric which absorbs the Cener's psychic probe. It protects your mind, but in so doing the evil druid senses resistance where there should be none and his suspicions are confirmed. You have been detected!</p>
- <choice idref="sect159"><link-text>Turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With an angry roar, the huge creature springs forward with its taloned paws outstretched. You retreat, drawing a hand weapon with which to fight this ravenous beast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pit Agarashi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge; only Kai-surge can harm it psychically.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sensation of falling accelerates until you are consumed completely by this spinning vortex. You have been drawn through a portal which leads to a terrible place, a realm where the power of Good holds no sway. You have been ensnared by the soul of Naar himself, the King of the Darkness, and as his prisoner you will remain, doomed to wander his dark domain for all eternity.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pain in your legs increases as the creature's venomous barbs release their poison. You draw on your natural Magnakai abilities to neutralize the venom, but even as the anti-toxins begin their work, you are being dragged deeper and deeper into the muddy pool.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Plaghatar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">35</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks. If the weapon you are using is non-edged (i.e., a Mace, a Quarterstaff, or a Warhammer), deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect48-1-foot" idref="sect48-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the walls of this reading room and as your eye passes over the books and scrolls stored upon its shelves, you feel an almost uncontrollable urge to tear every one of them to pieces. The wickedness they contain, gleaned after thousands of years of perpetrating the vilest herbcraft known to Magnamund, is so potent that you feel your Kai strength waning in their presence (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="156"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="156"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Mindful of the insidious effect of these books you search as quickly as you can. On one of the lower shelves you notice an ornately carved wooden box, banded with gold and inlaid with precious gemstones. You carry it to the main table where the light is brightest and, as you place it there, you hear a riddle emanating from a design engraved on its lid. It speaks in the Cenerese tongue but you instantly recognize the words:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>My treasure is hidden from view
- <br />But I'll open myself for you,
- <br />If you ponder this puzzle then state
- <br />The right answer to determine my fate.
- <br />Divide 80 by one half,
- <br />Then examine what you see.
- <br />From this number take 14,
- <br />What remains will open me.</quote>
- </p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Your Kai senses tell you that by solving the riddle, then speaking the answer aloud, you will cause the lid of the box to open.</p>
- <p>When you think you have solved this riddle, turn to the page number which is the same as your answer.<a id="sect48-1" idref="sect48-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you cannot answer the riddle, or if your answer does not lead to the page number which opens the box, <link-text>turn instead to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your powerful senses detect the tang of fresh water on the air that is wafting gently towards you from out of the east tunnel. The source is distant, more than a mile away at least.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to investigate the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you would rather explore the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the wide opening in the chamber wall there is a gallery which overlooks a vast windowless hall. You approach the gallery's railed parapet and stare down at a score of druids who are working at tiled tables positioned in rows across the floor. Upon some tables rest porcelain troughs filled with oily fluids which seethe beneath a constant shower of electrical sparks. Other tables support dozens of glass boxes of differing sizes. The smallest contain rats; the largest contain horses. Hundreds of pipes and tubes run around the walls, feeding a supply of fluids and gasses to the experiment tables. The fumes rising from this diabolical laboratory sting your eyes, but you ignore the discomfort and continue your observations, eager to take in every detail of the evil work which is taking place below. It is not long before you recognize that this hall is where the deadly plague virus, and its vaccine, are being produced.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You approach the gallery's veiled parapet and stare down at a score of druids working at tiled tables.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You know that you must act with all haste for Arch Druid Cadak is still alive and, wherever he is at present, you can be sure he is plotting to capture or kill you, probably both. Below lies that which you have come here to destroy. But how will you accomplish your task? Relentlessly the seconds tick by as you try to formulate a plan. Then you see something which sparks an idea. The pipes that feed fluids to the laboratory's disposal tanks are connected to a massive cauldron suspended from the ceiling by a winch and chains. You focus upon a plaque fixed to the side of this great vat and magnify your vision until you can read what has been engraved upon it. With grim satisfaction you read the words: <quote>Danger&emdash;Concentrated Acid</quote>.</p>
- <p>Here is the key to the destruction of the virus. If you can cause the cauldron to tilt over far enough it will discharge its contents into the hall below, flooding the virus-laden tables with thousands of gallons of concentrated acid.</p>
- <p>Elated by your daring plan, you look for a way to reach the winch which controls the angle at which the cauldron hangs from the ceiling. It is positioned high upon a platform atop an iron gantry, which is accessible only by ladder. Fortunately this ladder begins on the far side of the gallery.</p>
- <p>Confident in your purpose you hurry around the gallery towards the ladder. You are within twenty paces when suddenly the harsh clang of an alarm bell fills the hall. You have been seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus upon your left forearm and utter the Elder spell-word which calls into existence an invisible shield. Instantly there is a sizzling splash of blue-white sparks as the bolt of crackling energy collides with your magical defence.</p>
- <p>However, your preparation of the battle spell was hurried and incomplete. The shield is shattered by the force of impact and the bolt bursts through to lance deep into your chest: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you survive this wounding, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you swim away from the bridge towards the east wall of the cave. You can see no obvious exit here, but twenty feet below the surface you notice that the crevasse appears to undercut the cave wall.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a spear splashes into the lake and passes within inches of your head, causing you to dive deeper to avoid the others that are sure to follow. In the icy gloom you sense an undercurrent of warmer water rising from the crevasse. Also, your super-keen eyesight detects a pale light radiating from the base of the cave wall. Another cavern must lie beyond this one, but you have no way of knowing for sure just how far away that cave might be.</p>
- <p>Mustering your Kai courage, you swim down towards the crevasse and propel yourself along an oval-shaped tunnel below the east cave wall. In the distance you see the pale glow and you strike out towards it, thankful that at least this watery passage does not harbour hostile creatures.</p>
- <p>After four long minutes of strenuous swimming, you begin to suffer pains in your chest due to lack of oxygen.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, and add 1 to the number you have picked. This total is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose due to oxygen starvation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">Adjust your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total accordingly and then <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Cener curses you with his dying breath, his hooked hands outstretched before him as slowly he sinks to the ground. For a moment his body lies shivering at your feet, then it stiffens and is finally still.</p>
- <p>Curiosity prompts you to prise away his green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity. Reluctantly you search the body and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the gold rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Cener cackles with glee as he advances towards you, eager to finish you off. Dazed but determined to survive, you stagger to your feet in time to parry his first blow. Sparks explode as your weapon connects with his rod and a numbing jolt runs the length of your arm. Again you are forced back, but you manage to recover quickly and, with a defiant cry, you launch yourself upon him in a determined fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Brother Croumah (with Power Rod)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With deceptive ease you reach forward and pluck the spinning blade from the air when it is barely inches in front of your chest. The Vazhag looks at you aghast, frozen momentarily by the shock of what it has witnessed, but it is galvanized into action upon the instant you send the blade spinning back across the chamber, aimed at its head.</p>
- <p>The knife misses the creature's head by a finger's length, strikes the chamber wall, and rebounds with a metallic clang. It falls at the Vazhag's feet and is snatched up in its defence as you advance swiftly upon the creature, weapon in hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Fat Vazhag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instantly your senses tell you that what you are fighting is a living creature and not a plant! The creeper-like tendrils are part of its natural camouflage, and as it coils them around your limbs and neck in an attempt to squeeze the life from your body, you can feel its animal strength.</p>
- <p>Forewarned, you resist this attack just long enough to raise your weapon and strike a mighty blow which tears away a great swath of the creature's wriggling limbs. A fountain of ichor erupts from every severed end and, from somewhere above the canopy of branches, you hear an unearthly roar of pain. Once more the remaining tendrils seek you out, but this time they are no longer soft and fibrous, but stiff and studded with barbed thorns.</p>
- <p>The swirling mass strikes out for your throat. Desperately you hack at them with devastating effect, yet one of the limbs avoids your blows and wraps itself tightly about your neck. Pain fills your head and chest as its razor-sharp thorns bite deeply into your flesh and inject a powerful acid.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Stragnah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor makes a gradual descent towards a single wooden door shod with heavy iron fittings. You press the handle carefully and, to your surprise, the door opens inwards without a sound. You enter and push the door closed before beginning your exploration of this archive.</p>
- <p>The library contains thousands of books and time-yellowed parchments, stacked in uneven rows upon shelves that line every wall. The air is heavy with their odour and your senses prickle with the sensation that you are in the presence of works of great evil. Silently you pass from one chamber to the next until you spy two druids seated at a table in an adjoining room. They are studying a large tome which is bound in a pale-coloured leather. A wave of nausea makes you swallow hard the instant you realize that the book is covered with human skin. The two druids, who appear to be little older than a dozen years apiece, are chattering to each other excitedly. You move closer to the room and eavesdrop on their conversation.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>In the library you spy two druids seated at a table studying a large tome covered with human skin.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>After a few minutes you learn that their names are Noraa and Monad. They are novices who were brought into the sect by Cenerese agents after having been orphaned in their native land of Lourden. They seem devoted to studying the lore of their evil brotherhood, and as they read they ruminate at length about a great <quote>day of retribution</quote> that the Cenerese will enjoy before the year ends.</p>
- <p>At length they finish their studies and rise from the table. As Monad restores the book to its shelf, Noraa says:</p>
- <p><quote>Hurry up. We'll be late for Kadrian's sermon.</quote></p>
- <p>Monad nods apologetically, and hurries to join his brother as he leaves the library by another door. As the latch clicks shut, you emerge from your listening place and enter the room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you wish to follow the two young druids, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you choose to search this room, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize the black berries contained within the stoppered glass jar. They are Volko berries, found only in the remote uplands of Kakush, and much prized by magicians for their use as catalysts in their magical experiments. The juice of the berries aids or speeds up magical reactions between substances, while remaining unchanged itself.</p>
- <p>Your knowledge of Kai-alchemy, as taught to you by Guildmaster Banedon, is at best rudimentary. However, you are in no doubt that these berries are valuable, and they may even be of practical help to you during your quest.</p>
- <p>If you choose to keep this jar of Black Berries, record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack item.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">To continue, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Effortlessly you sidestep and dodge your way through the throng of rat-men, who are gathered about the wagon in a frenzy of activity, and escape into the empty passage which lies beyond the iron portal. A few minutes later, as you are exploring this new tunnel, you hear the great door close with a rumbling boom.</p>
- <p>The passage continues eastwards for several miles and, with the exception of an occasional Vazhag sentry, it is virtually deserted. At length you arrive at the entrance to another hall, smaller than the lava-cavern but equally as crowded. Daylight streams into this hall through a large archway guarded by armoured Vazhag, and pairs of horny-skinned war-dogs which they hold on the leash. Beyond the archway you can see a track that disappears towards a distant ridge of hills.</p>
- <p>Directly above the archway, you notice a thin ray of sunlight streaming through a window-like hole in the rock. Sorely aware that the main entrance is so heavily guarded that it will be very difficult, even for someone as gifted as yourself, to escape that way undetected, you resolve instead to escape by means of the smaller opening in the rock wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Cener's dying scream alerts the Vazhag pack and they come scampering back to investigate the sound. The moment they see you, standing over their leader like a hunter over his kill, their nerve appears to crumble. They lower their weapons and begin to edge away. Then the leading rat-men panic; they turn and run, and the others quickly follow suit, leaving you alone in the clearing with the body of the dead druid lying crumpled at your feet.</p>
- <p>Curiosity prompts you to prise away the druid's green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity. Reluctantly you search him and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hands, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the Sommerswerd and catch the magical fire upon the flat of its blade. There is a deafening crack and you feel an electrifying jolt run the length of your sword arm as the flame is deflected and set roaring back towards its caster. He regards the rebounding fireball with a look of cool indifference and proceeds to sheathe himself in a glowing cocoon of pale blue light. The flames split apart as they collide with this protective shell, flowing harmlessly around his body to disappear into the antechamber beyond.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="72"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="72"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>There is only one who wields such a blade,</quote> he spits, pointing at the Sommerswerd with his flame-tipped staff.</p>
- <p><quote>And I'll see that you perish upon it, Cadak!</quote> you shout in defiant reply.</p>
- <p><quote>Ha!</quote> he sneers, <quote>I rejoice that fate has brought you here to me, Lone Wolf, for it is you who will perish. Turn around and meet your nemesis!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect125"><link-text>Turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait at the corner, relying upon your keen senses for your cue to attack. When you judge the footfalls and the rasping breaths of the Vazhag to be within an oar's length of the corner, you leap out and confront them, striking at the leading rat-man with your weapon. The beast's rib cage cracks under the blow, and its four companions freeze with shock as its body collapses dead at their feet. Before they snap out of their trauma, you cut your way through their ranks and escape along the passageway.</p>
- <p>The tunnel continues eastwards for several miles and, with the exception of an occasional Vazhag sentry, whom you deal with swiftly, it is virtually deserted. At length you arrive at the entrance to another hall, smaller than the lava-cavern but equally as crowded. Daylight streams into this hall through a large archway guarded by armoured Vazhag, and pairs of horny-skinned war-dogs which they hold on the leash. Beyond the archway you can see a track that disappears towards a distant ridge of hills.</p>
- <p>Your sudden appearance galvanizes the guards into action. They squeal attack commands at their brutish dogs and let loose their straining leashes. With a fearful howling, the war-dogs bound forward and together they leap for your throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you possess the Discipline of Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect100">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fearsome Dholdaarg retreats before your blows, half-mad with the pain of its wounds, its eyes rolling and its fanged jaws clashing on empty air. Desperately you draw upon your Psychic Magnakai skills to repel this injured lake-beast, hoping to buy the few precious seconds you need in which to climb to the top of the raised drawbridge and escape.</p>
- <p>The beast tries to resist your mental commands but it cannot overcome them. Its natural instinct for food and revenge urge it to lunge at your flailing legs, yet the stinging agony of its wounds, and your potent psychic commands, make the creature hesitate.</p>
- <p>With your heart racing and the blood pounding in your ears, you drag yourself over the top of the drawbridge and leap down upon the platform. The cave echoes with the beast's unearthly roar as it beats its scaly head against the underside of the bridge in frustration. Timbers sag and splinter, prompting you to stagger to your feet and enter the tunnel beyond before it is too late.</p>
- <p>During your fight, and in your haste to flee the lake monster, you lose two items from your Backpack. Erase those items which you have listed third and fourth on your list of Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">To continue, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The body of the plague hound crashes to the floor and you see the warrior freeze with shock. Hesitantly he reaches to his sword, but before he can unsheathe it, you leap forward and fell him with a single thrust that pierces his armour and skewers his heart.</p>
- <p>Standing over his still body you use the tip of your weapon to prise open the visor of his iron helm. You reveal the brutal features of a Drakkar. He had survived the downfall of the Darklords and had counted himself fortunate to have found refuge here in Mogaruith. Sadly for him he had not reckoned on ever crossing your path.</p>
- <p>You conceal the bodies of the Drakkar and his hound as best you can before pulling the portal closed and continuing your exploration of Mogaruith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai defences are too weak to resist the wave of psychic energy directed against your mind. It tears through your shields and explodes like a fiery ball of white hot plasma deep within your brain. Every nerve in your body is scorched by the blast and, as you fight to remain conscious, your body is contorted by excruciating pain: lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As the agony fades and your powers of cohesive thought return, you are dimly aware of another hostile entity drawing closer, attracted by your psychic screams. Then, from out of the black shadows of the pits, you hear a dreadful, rumbling roar. Something huge is stirring deep within each of those dark forbidding shafts. As the ghoulish laughter of the horde reaches its pitch, you turn to see three giant, misshapen cat-like heads rise up into the light, each perched atop a snaky body as thick as the trunk of a tree. They bare their fangs and shake off the tangle of human bones that cling to their stinking, corpse-green manes.</p>
- <p>The sight of these unholy creatures makes you reel back in shock and utter a cry of disbelief. Your cry is lost among the barrage of screeching howls, yet the cat-things react as if they hear it and, together, they come oozing out from their dark, noisome lairs and glide slowly towards where you stand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your search of the dead Cener's robes uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Potion of Alether (increase <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for duration of one fight only)</li>
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">To leave this chamber and continue, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced sixth senses alert you to danger. At the end of the tunnel you feel the presence of several creatures, some of which you know to be Vazhag. They are a noisy crowd although the sounds they are making are not particularly hostile. Their voices echo strongly, giving you the impression that the creatures are occupying a large and spacious location.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to spirit-walk in order to gather more information about what lies ahead, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you choose not to risk spirit-walking here in hostile tunnels, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill of Psi-surge, you focus your power at a Vazhag guard who is standing on top of the wagon, and release a stunning burst of psychic energy aimed at its brain. Immediately, the creature grasps its head between its paws and lets out an ear-splitting squeal of pain as your attack sears its nervous system. The sudden cry freezes the surrounding rat-men and, when the victim of your attack tumbles from the rear of the wagon, they surge forward, eager to find out what is wrong. In the ensuing confusion, you leave your hiding place and attempt to escape unseen through the portal.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Kai-screen, add 2 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon glances off the creature's head, opening a wound which kills it instantly. But the force of the impact is not enough to prevent its hand from reaching the button. As the creature topples lifelessly to the floor, you stare with mounting fear at the sight of the depressed alarm button.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216"><link-text>Turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag pushes his snout to within an inch of your face and says, to your surprise, that you can enter Mogaruith so long as you first register your arrival. He points to a door in the tower wall and requests you to enter it. <quote>There,</quote> he says, <quote>is where you can make your registration.</quote></p>
- <p>Immediately your Magnakai sense of Divination warns that the Vazhag is lying; nothing but a prison cell awaits you beyond that door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to do as the Vazhag requests and enter the door, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you refuse to enter the door, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grit your teeth and fix your eyes on the observation platform as you wait for the chain to reach the end of its arc. Upon the instant the momentum stops, you release your grip and hurtle through air towards the platform's rail. You have timed your jump to perfection. You skim the rail and land on the metal floor, roll over to lessen the impact, then spring to your feet and run towards the inviting darkness of the doorway which services this platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle to extricate yourself from the bodies of the Vazhag you have slain. As you rise to the summit of the grisly heap, you glimpse the Cener Druid scurrying towards the gap in the trees by which he, and his late minions, entered the clearing.</p>
- <p>You know that he must not be allowed to escape. If he were to reach Mogaruith and raise the alarm, your mission, and probably your life, would soon be over.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you possess a Bow and Arrows and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you possess mastery of Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you possess none of the above, or choose not to make use of them, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Exterminus is no more than an arm's length from you when you manage to tear free of your thorny bonds. With cat-like grace you duck below the creature's outstretched hands and drive your weapon deep into its unprotected belly. It screams in agony and reels backwards to crash down upon the table which stands beside Cadak's black chair. The awesome bulk of the creature's body crushes the table to matchwood and breaks open the crystal sphere that rested upon it. Immediately there is a loud boom and a tremendous rush of putrid air knocks you down. A funnel of darkness engulfs the body of Exterminus and, with stunning suddenness, there is silence. Both the creature and the shattered remnants of the sphere have vanished completely.</p>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and turn to face the Arch Druid. The shock of what he has witnessed has left him open-mouthed and drained of colour. He is mumbling incoherently and trembling with fear. You take up your weapon and advance towards him, determined to rid Magnamund of this evil druid once and for all, but the sight of you drawing closer snaps him out of his trauma and galvanizes him into action. He weaves his hands before his face and, in an instant, he is shrouded in a cocoon of light. You strike out at the light but your weapon passes clean through it, meeting with no resistance. Then the light fades and you are left standing alone in the druid's empty throne room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the water's edge as the Vazhag comes thundering off the drawbridge and on to the platform. With the manic curses of their leader echoing in their ears, they leap to the muddy shore and charge straight at you, their rusty weapons glinting dully in the light of the cave.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs lead to another hall on a level fifty feet higher. Here, two staircases ascend to the left and right, and a gloomy tunnel disappears directly ahead of you. Your senses pick up something moving at the end of the tunnel and, when you focus your infravision along this dark passageway, you see another Vazhag patrol heading straight towards you. This one is being led by two Acolytes of Vashna and a pack of Ruel war-dogs.</p>
- <p>Eager to evade these enemies, you glance at both staircases and try to decide which one to climb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to ascend the left staircase, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you decide to ascend the right staircase, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sphere explodes on impact and you are engulfed by a cloud of sickly grey gas. At once you feel your throat tighten and your stomach churn as deadly bacteria-infested vapour penetrates your lungs. But, within seconds, your powerful defences destroy this bacteria and you recover enough to be able to run towards the entrance, hidden by the billowing gas.</p>
- <p>In the ensuing chaos, you escape through the entrance unchallenged. For a moment you are blinded by the early morning sunlight which illuminates the surrounding hills, but, as you stumble along the trail which leads away from the caverns, your vision clears and you see a vast expanse of forest away to the east. This sea of sickly grey-green trees radiates an unmistakable aura of evil that immediately identifies it as the Forest of Ruel.</p>
- <p>Your escape is not pursued and, after a few minutes, you stop among a cluster of boulders in order to catch your breath. The surrounding land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being the track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the unwelcoming forest. You consult your map and conclude that this is the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A Cener Robe and a Mask would provide you with a useful disguise as you explore the chambers of Mogaruith, a disguise that would undoubtedly raise your chances of success. With this in mind you take and put on what you need from the pegs.</p>
- <p>Remember to record your choice on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Cener Robe takes up two spaces in your Backpack; a Cener Mask takes one space. If you already carry the maximum number of Backpack items allowed, you must discard one item in favour of the Mask and/or Robe</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">To continue, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you stretches a cavernous hall, lit by the glow from fire-filled orbs hanging by chains from the ceiling. Facing each other are two rows of stone statues which form a grotesque corridor leading to an archway on the far side. A flicker of fear chills your heart when you notice that the expressions frozen upon their misshapen faces are those of pain and despair.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you advance. You are wary of the statues and your body is tensed to react should they show the slightest hint of animation. Then you detect something which makes you freeze in mid-step. Your Kai senses warn you that something is sleeping in a shadowy alcove close to the distant archway. Anxious not to disturb whatever is resting there, you call upon your camouflage skills to mask your presence before moving any nearer.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Grand Mastery of Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If your total score is 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If your score is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the tunnel for many miles as it plunges deep into the bowels of the Skardos Mountains. At length you reach a wider, smooth-walled corridor, which bears recent tracks upon its dusty floor. Your infallible Magnakai skills of Pathsmanship reveal that this corridor leads due west, towards Mogaruith.</p>
- <p>The numerous tracks tell you that this passage is frequently used. Judging by their size and depth, they have been made by large, rat-like creatures, but ones who walk upright, like humans. From what you have been told about the denizens of Ruel, you are sure that these are the tracks of Vazhag, warrior vermin bred by the Cenerese. Among them you note other tracks that are far from rat-like.</p>
- <p>Cautiously, you follow the corridor and, despite your mounting fears, you encounter nothing more threatening than a nest of ragged-winged bats and an occasional rock snake, which slithers away at your approach. Gradually, the air becomes increasingly cooler and more humid. You can smell the strong scent of water somewhere in the distance and you are not at all surprised when, as you round a sharp bend, you see shimmering reflections playing upon the smooth stone ceiling ahead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In desperation you draw upon your reserves of psychic strength to shape a ball of energy, then you hurl it at the nearest abomination. It strikes its subconscious and the beast's eyes shut tight in pain as the force of your mind-strike bites deep into its unshielded cortex.</p>
- <p>The attack is successful; the creature is wounded and it slithers back into the safety of its pit. Yet, despite seeing what has befallen their brother, the remaining two creatures continue to advance undaunted.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Ruel Giganite</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect13">These creatures are susceptible to all forms of psychic attack. When their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score has been reduced to 36 or less, you can elect to evade combat by <link-text>turning to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and slide it between the pin and the body of the cauldron. You cannot break the thick iron pin but you may be able to lever it away from the chain.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now consult the list below and modify the number you have picked:</p>
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, add 4.</p>
- <p>If you are using a Spear or a Broadsword add 2.</p>
- <p>If you are using a Quarterstaff or a Dagger subtract 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your hood and draw your Kai cloak close about your shoulders before pressing yourself flat against the dusty tunnel wall. The shadows and your camouflage skills mask you completely; it is as if you have suddenly vanished. When the two groups of Vazhag come together, close to where you are hiding, they immediately blame each other for having allowed you to escape. They argue loudly and a fight looks imminent until the timely arrival of a Vazhag elder cools their flaring tempers. He orders them back to the lava-lit cavern, and you wait calmly for the grumbling rat-men to disperse before continuing eastwards, along a now-empty tunnel.</p>
- <p>For nearly five miles you explore and, with the exception of an occasional Vazhag sentry, the tunnel remains virtually deserted. At length you arrive at the entrance to another hall, smaller than the lava-cavern but equally as crowded. Daylight streams into this hall through a large archway guarded by armoured Vazhag, and pairs of horny-skinned war-dogs which they hold on the leash. Beyond the archway you can see a track that disappears towards a distant ridge of hills.</p>
- <p>Directly above the archway, you notice a thin ray of sunlight streaming through a window-like hole in the rock. Sorely aware that the main entrance is so heavily guarded that it will be very difficult, even for someone as gifted as yourself, to escape that way undetected, you resolve instead to escape by means of the smaller opening in the rock wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless and bespattered with the blood of your slain foes, you step back from the bodies which lie heaped around your feet and sheathe your gore-stained weapon. The alarm bell continues to toll, warning you that every living creature in Mogaruith is being summoned for the hunt.</p>
- <p>Anxious to reach the surface as quickly as you can, you leap over the bodies and stride up the stairs. You are hungry and while you run you must eat a meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery).</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">To continue, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your innate Magnakai skill of Invisibility, you take care to mask your body heat and scent lest they should stir the curiosity of any keen-nosed denizens of Ruel. Then, with caution guiding your every step, you advance through the knee-high grasses towards the fallen tree. As you approach, you focus your powers of Divination and scan the surrounding darkness for invisible or hidden enemies. Sensing no immediate threat, you continue to the forest's edge where you are greeted by an unwholesome warmth. It rises out of a mulch of insects and fungi that are feasting upon the corpse of the tree. Silently you offer up a prayer to Ishir before venturing a step further this inhospitable domain.</p>
- <p>Beyond the dead tree you find a muddy track which is bordered on both sides by the tall trunks and thorny briars of the forest. So dense is this tangle of trees and brush that it is impossible to leave the track. You feel as if you are walking along an endless passage, one so unnatural that its construction could only be the result of evil herbcraft.</p>
- <p>At length the track widens and the trees begin to thin out. Ahead you see a clearing and at once your senses tingle: it is a warning that you are not alone. Instinctively you reach for your weapon and, as your hand closes upon it, you see that the floor of the clearing is alive with a carpet of loathsome scuttling creatures. At once you attempt to use your Magnakai powers of Animal Control, to determine if these creature are hostile, but your efforts go unrewarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a slight gradient to the tunnel and, gradually, as the stone floor ascends, you feel a draught of warm air wafting gently in your face. It feels comfortable and yet it is far from welcoming for the air is sticky and humid, as if the breath of some great jungle beast was being exhaled along the passageway.</p>
- <p>In the distance you hear a fire-like roar, and another sound&emdash;squeaking&emdash;which forewarns you that Vazhag lie ahead. You advance, masked by your Magnakai skills, and step forth into a massive chamber which is lit by the fierce light of volcanic fire. From a crater-like pit at the chamber's centre, a jet of red-gold flame roars up to a towering height, and clouds of steam fill the cavernous roof space where it plays upon a ceiling of damp rock. Around the pit are constructed several small, domed huts, all made of volcanic clinker scavenged from the crater's edge. The huts house a colony of Vazhag; you count more than fifty females and their young scurrying around the crude dwellings, and estimate that at least that number again could be sheltering inside.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>From a pit at the centre of a massive chamber, a jet of red-gold flame roars up to a towering height.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Using your skills, and the advantage of the flickering shadows which dance upon the rough cavern walls, you circle around the settlement unseen. On the far side there is an onion-shaped archway guarded by six Vazhag males, all of whom are heavily armed and armoured. You move a little closer, confident that your natural abilities will get you past these oversized spear-toting rodents unnoticed, but you are brought to a halt by a daunting sight. A few feet beyond the archway stands a massive portal, a wall of solid black iron.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding on to the ladder with your left hand, you unsheathe your weapon with your right hand and lash out at the Acolytes above in a desperate attempt to gain the platform.</p>
- <p>Acolytes of Vashna: (One with a Medallion of Protection) <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 36 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 50</p>
- <p>Due to the disadvantageous position, and the length of your enemies' weapons, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge on a mountainside, at a place hidden beneath an outcrop which is ringed by wind-worn boulders and scrub. Early morning sunlight illuminates the surrounding hills, and beyond them you see a vast expanse of forest, a sea of sickly grey-green trees, which radiates an unmistakable aura of evil. The position of the sun and your Pathsmanship skills inform you that you are now looking upon the Forest of Ruel from the eastern foothills of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <p>The land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being a wide dirt track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the grim forest. You consult your map and conclude that this must be the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners, which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The saliva burns several holes in your tunic's right arm and back. Fortunately, the power of your Grand Mastery skills saves your body from suffering a similar fate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch helplessly as the Vazhag disappear into the trees. You are tempted to give chase, fearful that if allowed to escape they will raise the alarm and bring all of Mogaruith down upon you. But the Vazhag are creatures of this forest and tracking two of them, even for a hunter as gifted as yourself, would be no easy task.</p>
- <p>You decide instead to let them go and use the zombie in an attempt to gain entry to Mogaruith. You stoop to retrieve the poor creature's chain and, with pounding heart, walk slowly along the trail towards the crowded drawbridge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mustering all your courage, you abandon your hiding place and rush to attack the Cener. Instantly he spins to face you and screams at his Vazhag to defend him. With a foul, snickering cry the Vazhag race to do their master's bidding and, before you can reach the druid, they leap upon you, hacking and stabbing with their rusty blades.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect91-1-foot" idref="sect91-1">
- <p>Although adding <quote>a further 2</quote> to your random number implies that you must have Kai-surge to get this bonus, it is also reasonable to apply this bonus whether or not you have this Discipline.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your gaze upon the creature's eye and will it, with all of your power, to fall asleep. Slowly its lid begins to lower but it does not close completely. The creature is fighting your psychic suggestion and you can sense its resistance is fierce.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Mastery of Kai-surge, add 3 to the number you have chosen. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 20 or higher, add a further 2 to your score.<a id="sect91-1" idref="sect91-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Determined not to be defeated by a closed door, you kneel down in front of the keyhole and attempt to pick the lock. It takes you just a few seconds to defeat it, but upon the very instant you do so, the spell which shields the mechanism discharges a powerful bolt of energy.</p>
- <p>The bolt runs along the length of your arm and explodes in your head with a blinding flash&emdash;lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your psychic defences lessen the damage you sustain, damage that would have killed a lesser man, but the unexpected shock still causes you to scream involuntarily.</p>
- <p>The door is no longer locked and you hurry through it, keen to make up for lost time. However, your scream did not go unheard and as you rush into the hall which lies beyond the door, you are confronted by a creature freshly awoken by your cry of pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you recover from the trauma and pull yourself to your feet. Ahead, the track crosses the plateau and passes within a few yards of the pits before continuing into a tunnel-like gap in the trees beyond. You advance, but every step that brings you nearer to the site causes your psychic senses to rebel. The images you saw, and the aura of evil that lingers here, are so strong that you find it difficult to step closer. You resolve to reach the gap at a run but a sudden noise from behind arrests you in mid-step.</p>
- <p>Shambling out of the forest come a horde of monstrous shapes, corpse-like beings that exist in a twilight between life and death. Perched atop their withered bodies are hairless heads bearing lidless, red eyes and gaping maws, rimmed with hundreds of needle-thin fangs. As one they utter a deathly groan and you feel an icy chill electrify your spine.</p>
- <p>Fighting to suppress your mounting horror, you turn and run towards the gap. You are within a few yards of the rocky spur when a dozen or more of these fearful creatures appear from the shadows to block your escape. Once more they utter their cadaverous cry and advance upon you from both sides.</p>
- <p>Desperately you survey the plateau for another means of escape, but there is none: you are trapped. The only choice you have is to face the creatures or retreat towards the pits.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you wish to fight these creatures, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you choose to retreat towards the pits, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After observing the tunnel for several minutes, you sense that there are no Vazhag in the immediate area and decide it is safe to enter. Silently you drop down into the passageway and head off towards the north, using the shadows and your Kai skills to shield yourself as you advance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow this dark passage for several minutes before arriving at what appears to be a dead end. You are about to turn around and retrace your steps when suddenly your senses alert you to an ornately carved brick in the facing wall. On closer examination you discover a keyhole, and a Cenerese engraving which bears the seal of Arch Druid Cadak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you possess a Map of Mogaruith, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess a Gold Key, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you have neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a thick splash in the muddy shallows at the water's edge and, seconds later, a voice echoes from the far side of the lake. It is the rasping voice of a Cener Druid, commanding his Vazhag minions to rush forward and prevent you from escaping. You hear clawed feet scrabbling on the bridge timbers, then you catch sight of four of these vile rat-men as they come racing across the bridge, with swords and spears clasped in their hairy paws.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you possess a Bow and at least one Arrow, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power of your Grand Pathsmanship repels the insidious vines and sends them snaking towards Exterminus. Rapidly they weave themselves around his muscular frame, pinning his arms and tripping his feet, despite his futile attempts to break free. The demonic creature screams in frustration and topples forward to crash face first upon the table which stands beside Cadak's black chair. The awesome bulk of the creature's body crushes the table to matchwood and breaks open the crystal sphere that rested upon it. Immediately there is a loud boom and a tremendous rush of putrid air knocks you down. A funnel of darkness engulfs Exterminus and, with stunning suddenness, there is silence. Both the creature and the shattered remnants of the sphere have vanished completely.</p>
- <p>You turn to face the Arch Druid. The shock of what he has witnessed has left him open-mouthed and drained of colour. He is mumbling incoherently and trembling with fear. You take up your weapon and advance towards him, determined to rid Magnamund of this evil druid once and for all, but the sight of you drawing closer snaps him out of his trauma and galvanizes him into action. He weaves his staff before his face and, in an instant, he is shrouded in a cocoon of light. You strike out at the light but your weapon passes clean through it, meeting with no resistance. Then the light fades and you are left standing alone in the druid's empty throne room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the darkened doorway you watch the activity taking place in the keep, hoping to see something that will help you locate where in Mogaruith the Cenerese are producing their deadly plague viruses.</p>
- <p>From out of the milling crowds of Vazhag there suddenly appears a small group of red-robed Cener Druids. They are talking to each other as they walk towards your hiding place.</p>
- <p>Quickly you pull away from the open doorway and retreat deeper into the building. A narrow corridor takes you to a flight of steps which descends to where a passage crosses your path. An ornately painted sign, written in Cenerese, indicates what may be found at the end of each passage.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills enable you to read this sign. The arrow pointing to the left reads <quote>Library</quote>; the arrow pointing to the right reads <quote>Laboratory</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to go left towards the Library, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you choose to go right and head towards the Laboratory, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow clips the druid's arm but it fails to stop him from making his hasty escape along the forest track. Cursing your ill luck, you run across the clearing and give chase.</p>
- <p>You have been on his trail for less than a mile when you sense danger ahead. The druid has managed to reach another patrolling pack of Vazhag, much larger than his own escort, this one led by six of the druid's brethren. He informs them of your presence and, using their corrupted form of herbcraft, they cause the undergrowth to close in upon you and hold you prisoner. Marshalling all your skills, you manage to cut your way free of its grip, but not before the druids have mustered reinforcements from Mogaruith.</p>
- <p>They attack you mercilessly with the full might of their evil craft. Courageously, you defy them, but their combined power is far greater than even a Grand Master can withstand. With the name of your gods and your country on your lips, you finally meet your doom here in the Forest of Ruel.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect100-1-foot" idref="sect100-1">
- <p>You must defeat all of the Ruel War-dogs before turning to <a idref="sect37">Section 37</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With chilling ferocity, the war-dogs throw themselves at you, their slavering fang-filled jaws stretched wide in readiness to clamp upon your flesh. Coolly you unsheathe your weapon and brace yourself to meet their attack, for it is too late to evade these sadistic, slavering hounds.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ruel War-dogs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you win and the combat takes 5 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If the combat takes 6 rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.<a id="sect100-1" idref="sect100-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still trembling from the shock of your encounter, you stare at the dead Cener's body as you struggle to catch your breath.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to search his body, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you decide to hurry away from this evil chamber, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You insert the key and twist it. The lock opens with a satisfying <quote>clunk</quote>, allowing you to open the door and enter a strange and eerie hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the top of the ladder and haul yourself on to the winch platform. Now the whistling shafts strike and splinter uselessly against the underside of this metal floor which hides you from the archers' view.</p>
- <p>You run to the winch and examine the gears and chains, trying at once to understand their workings and find a way to cause the cauldron to discharge its corrosive contents into the hall below. But the device is designed to prevent the chance of this occurring. The only way you can make the cauldron spill its deadly load is by severing a thick metal pin which secures the heavy chain to its rim.</p>
- <p>Anxiously you glance over the edge of the platform at the confusion raging in the hall below. Three druids, having recognized your intentions, are trying desperately to gather together virus samples from their cultivation vats. The vats are fixed to the tables, triple-sealed with protective glass to prevent accidental leaks, and it is precisely this elaborate protection which now confounds the druids' frantic efforts to save their plague cultures.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Out of the corner of your eye you notice that the first of the Vazhag archers is now climbing the ladder to the winch platform, and you know you must act swiftly and effectively if you are to fulfil your quest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you possess Mastery of Grand Nexus, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you possess neither of these Grand Master Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unshoulder your Bow and draw an Arrow from your Quiver. Then, with smooth precision, you take aim at the fleeing druid's back. The instant you fix upon his billowing scarlet robes, you release the bowstring and send your shaft speeding towards the nape of his neck.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Weaponmastery (with Bow), add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If your total score is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heavy chain whips towards your face but your reactions are lightning fast. You pull yourself away and it misses you by inches. Then you move forward to the platform's edge to watch, with grim fascination, as the gigantic acid-filled cauldron plummets into the hall below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you half an hour to reach the foot of the staircase. There awaits a dank cavern, its uneven floor littered with the bones of creatures who fell from the stairs or were consumed by the spectral being which once commanded this vault. Steeling yourself against the unwelcoming gloom, you advance along an oval, white-walled passageway of mineral rock and emerge in another chamber which is filled by a deep pool of crystal-clear water.</p>
- <p>At first it appears to be a dead end, then you notice a faint light reflecting upon the surface of the water and you look up to see a hollow directly above. It is a natural chimney which rises into the ceiling, and at its end you see a warm, yellow, lantern-like glow. The chimney is rough and pitted, and to someone of your experience it is as easy to climb as a wide-stepped ladder.</p>
- <p>Within ten minutes you reach the neck of the chimney and find yourself staring through a hole at the floor of a passageway beyond. The source of the light comes from several oil lamps which hang at regular intervals from the roof of this narrow tunnel. You can sense the presence of Vazhag somewhere in the vicinity, and so you choose to wait here in case a patrol is about to pass this way.</p>
- <p>During your wait, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">To continue, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The strength of your psychic defences is such that you can easily withstand the pulse of energy that the druid has launched against you. His attack fragments and fades, leaving him sorely weakened by his desperate effort to thwart your advance.</p>
- <p>With a cry of despair, he draws a dagger from inside his robes and prepares to fight you to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cener Druid</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You begin your bogus report and the creature dutifully copies down your words, but what you are saying soon heightens its suspicions that you are an impostor. Then you notice its free hand gliding slowly towards a button which protrudes from the side of its desk. It is an alarm button.</p>
- <p>Before you can prevent it, the creature depresses the button.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the two figures turn from the table, you recognize the red robes they are wearing. At first you assumed them to be Cener Druids, but their garments are not the same. They have black hoods, and the skull-like motifs which are embroidered upon them identify these two to be members of an evil sect known as the Acolytes of Vashna.</p>
- <p>The presence here of two worshippers of Vashna, who was once the greatest of all the Darklords, rekindles chilling memories of past encounters with these fanatics. Following the downfall of the Darklords you had assumed that the last remnants of the sect had vanished forever, yet here before you are two who still wear their robes and practise their vile necromantic art.</p>
- <p>Fearful that you have stumbled upon a secret Cenerese conspiracy, you inch your way closer to the robed men to listen to their whispered conversation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your death-blow sends the Pit Agarashi sprawling limply to the chamber floor, but its loathsome body has barely settled amongst the junk when you glimpse the Vazhag hurl something from the corner of the room. A glint of light on razor-sharp steel reveals the curvy-bladed knife which is now spinning end-over-end towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship and Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you do not possess <em>both</em> of these Grand Master Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus upon the three distant pits and allow your consciousness to pass into the trance-like state that must be achieved to allow your Discipline to work. A tingling sensation runs along your limbs and gradually an image takes form in your mind.</p>
- <p>From out of a swirling mist there comes into focus a moving scene that is terrible to behold. A vast procession of partially-clad soldiers are being herded into the pits by packs of blood-hungry Vazhag. They are bound with ropes and many are grievously wounded. They plead for mercy but their pitiful cries go unheeded as the snarling, savage rat-men stab them to death with their cruelly-fashioned spears before casting them down into the three yawning abysses.</p>
- <p>Gradually the image fades and, as you return to consciousness, you discover that you are lying face down upon the ground. Your limbs shake uncontrollably and your forehead and chest are bathed in a cold sweat. You have tapped into the powerful residue of psychic force that pervades this site and the experience has left you in a state of psychic shock: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">To continue, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hanging by your fingertips on to the underside of the descending drawbridge, you are slowly lowered into the icy cold waters of the lake. The bridge stops with a jolt, leaving you dangling waist-deep in the water and feeling all-too-vulnerably like a piece of Dholdaarg bait.</p>
- <p>You hear the rasp of clawed feet scurrying across the bridge and a voice, unmistakably Cenerese, echoes from the opposite side of the cave. Despite the pain in your fingers and forearms, you remain absolutely motionless as the rat-like Vazhag cross the bridge and descend to the muddy shore. One or two remain on the bridge directly above you, and you can see them through the cracks in the timbers. They are squeaking and pointing at the oily green pools of blood that stain the surface of the lake.</p>
- <p>Drawn by their comrades' squeaking, you see two Vazhag leap from the platform and pad down towards the water's edge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag lancer tumbles lifelessly to the ground startling its horse which turns and bolts towards the forest. Instantly you act to prevent its escape by using your Magnakai ability of Animal Control. Your powers soothe the creature and coax it to return.</p>
- <p>Quickly you mount the steed and head off along the trail which leads to the River Storn. You are less than five miles from the bridge where you hope to finally make good your escape to the Freeland of Slovia. By keeping to the forest's edge you avoid the traffic of Vazhag troops moving back and forth along the trail and, by the time you reach the banks of the mighty Storn, your spirits are high. Unfortunately, when you do catch your first sight of the bridge, your hopes of making a crossing here are soon dashed.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hound crashes to the ground, mortally wounded. But before you can even catch your breath, its master comes charging at you with his sword raised to hack you down.</p>
- <p>You sidestep his first blow, gaining the few precious seconds you need in which to compose yourself for this second wave of combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Defender</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the iron lever and at first nothing happens. Then you hear a click followed by the hiss of escaping air as the concealed door unlocks and glides open. Quickly you enter and close the door to avoid being seen by the Vazhag guards.</p>
- <p>A narrow corridor lies beyond, lit by a gloomy crimson light which is filtering through a threadbare curtain hung from hooks in the ceiling. Automatically you cast your eyes around, checking floor, walls, and roof for traps, but detect nothing unduly suspicious. Then you approach the curtain and through its moth-eaten fabric you spy a small bed chamber. A grossly overweight Vazhag, wrapped in furs, lies sprawled upon a divan in the centre of the room. He is snoring fitfully. Around him are strewn heaps of all manner of items: rusty weapons, tarnished armour, boxes and candlesticks, trinkets, baubles and books. In the merchant stores of Holmgard they would be rejected as worthless junk, but here, in the rat-holes of the Skardos Mountains, they no doubt pass for treasure.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Across the chamber, beyond the sleeping Vazhag, you see another curtained archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to enter the chamber and search through the items which litter the floor, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you choose to cross the chamber and investigate the curtained archway, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you decide to turn around and leave by the secret door, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the sphere, its sparkling crystal core is darkened by a mist. Rapidly this smoky discolouration expands until it transcends the confines of the sphere and begins to take the shape of a swirling funnel which comes closer with every passing second. The moment that the edges of this sinister cone engulf your vision, you sense a dramatic change take place, as if you have suddenly crossed over the boundary which separates consciousness from dreams.</p>
- <p>A sensation of falling assails your senses and, with panic in your heart, you try desperately to extricate yourself from this terrifying cone of darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>Now, consult the following list and modify your number where appropriate:</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-screen add 3.</p>
- <p>If you possess Grand Nexus add 1.</p>
- <p>If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 20 or higher add 1.</p>
- <p>If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 19 or lower subtract 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If it is 5-7, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the shrieks of the horde and the rasping growl of the Giganite echoing in your ears, you spring to your feet and run headlong into the mouth of the leafy tunnel. Your stamina and fleetness of foot keep you ahead of the ghouls until, two miles later, you sense that the danger has passed and it is safe enough for a few minutes' rest.</p>
- <p>Once your pulse has settled, your fear of being followed prompts you to continue along the leafy passage without further delay. You progress in a near-darkness which is broken only by a few scattered rays of grey light that creep through the ceiling above. At length the tunnel ends and you emerge into a clearing where stand the derelict remains of an ancient stone dwelling. You approach it warily, sensing the presence of magic, yet inside its shattered walls you find nothing but mould and clumps of sickly black grass. Then your skills of Divination tingle afresh as the presentiment of sorcery increases. Suddenly you realize that the source of the magic is not here in this ruined hut: it is approaching the hut.</p>
- <p>Through a crack in the stones you see a gap appear in the wall of trees opposite and a group of Vazhag enter the clearing, their ratty faces sniffing at the heavy, humid air. Among their number is one who is not of their breed. He is human in size and stature, though his hooded scarlet robes make it difficult to be sure. For a moment you catch a glimpse of the glassy green mask covering his face and at once you know that this being is a Cener Druid. In his hand he carries a rod of gold that is radiating the aura of magic which you detected when first you entered the clearing.</p>
- <p>The Cener calls his pack to a halt. They cease all movement and watch in quiet awe as he raises his golden rod and uses it to make a slow, deliberate sweep of the clearing. Hurriedly you draw on your Magnakai skills of Invisibility and Pathsmanship to shield you from detection as the Cener sweeps back the rod and levels it directly at the derelict hut.</p>
- <p>Waves of psychic energy flow across your mind. Steadily they grow in intensity, probing and testing your defences to breaking point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel continues for more than a mile before it descends, by means of a steep staircase, to another passageway over one hundred feet below the first. Here the air is full of fine dust and you can hear small scratching sounds coming from inside the walls.</p>
- <p>In the dark distance, you see clearly a score of crab-like creatures grouped in circles on the tunnel floor. Their shells are bone-white and you hazard a guess that these strange crustaceans have probably never been exposed to the sun. At your approach they scuttle up the walls with surprising speed and disappear into funnel-shaped holes that riddle the ceiling.</p>
- <p>Confident that the crabs have taken fright and fled, you advance along the tunnel towards another staircase, the top of which you can just discern in the far distance. You are passing beneath the crab-holes when you hear a faint hissing noise and suddenly you feel droplets of sticky clear liquid spattering your head and shoulders. Then wisps of grey smoke arise from your cloak and you feel a searing pain, as if a fistful of red-hot needles were being stabbed repeatedly into your scalp. You are being attacked by a powerful organic acid and it is rapidly eating its way into your flesh!</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you make your way towards the stairwell and descend the steps without being seen. The circular stairs spiral down more than fifty feet to a chamber directly below the hall, empty save for a line of red robes and masks which hang from pegs driven into the marble wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you already possess Cener Robes <em>and</em> a Cener Mask, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you possess only one, or neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature's ghastly visage is the very stuff of nightmares. From its bear-like torso there protrude four tentacles and two powerful legs, all sheathed in shaggy scales. The limbs are surmounted with horny talons which glint menacingly in the gloom. Its head, set with huge fishy eyes, is bulbous and disfigured by disease. It rests awkwardly upon a crooked neck which wobbles with every movement the lumbering beast makes. A livid crimson gash just below the eyes serves as its mouth, and a long tail, ridged with sharp spines, swishes behind it.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You see a creature advancing towards you whose ghastly visage is the very stuff of nightmares.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="589"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="589"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With unexpected speed the beast is suddenly upon you, stabbing and slashing at your body with its sword-sharp talons.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Degradon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge (but not Kai-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step away from the dead Vazhag, you notice a tiny box-like device hanging from a chain around the Pit Agarashi's neck. At once your natural sixth sense informs you that the device is magical. It controlled the creature's instincts, enslaving it to the commands of the weaker Vazhag.</p>
- <p>If you wish to take this Restrainer, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Anxious to leave, you lift the furs which cover the divan and see, protruding from the side, a small lever identical to the one that opened the secret door. You pull it and the door clicks open, enabling you to escape by the way you entered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag inform you that they are returning from a place called the Temple of Dzenya. Brother Hoylez, the druid in charge of the temple, recently resurrected this human from the temple's grave-pits. They have been ordered to deliver it to Brother Croumah at the Hall of Sacrifice in Mogaruith.</p>
- <p><quote>Excellent!</quote> you reply, convincingly. <quote>I myself am on my way to seek council with Brother Croumah this very instant. You will escort me there. Now, lead on!</quote></p>
- <p>The Vazhag appear to relax upon hearing your order, as if they had half-expected you to punish them, and they set off readily towards the drawbridge with you following close behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see the red-robed druid flick his wrist and from his golden rod there leaps a second charge. This lance of crackling fire spirals through the hole in the wall and comes arcing towards your face, like a ravenous vampire let loose upon a maiden's throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you possess Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you have neither of these Grand Master Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense a strong aura of power surrounding the druid. He stands only a few feet from where you are crouching and, in order to prevent him detecting your presence, you call upon all of your advanced mastery of camouflage to keep you safe.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">If your total score is now 3&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If it is 5&endash;12, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that Cadak's command is no simple trick for you can feel another presence in the room, moving towards your back. You sidestep to your left and turn, keeping the Arch Druid still in sight as you glance across your shoulder at the rest of the chamber.</p>
- <p>You had been half-expecting to see one of Cadak's henchmen sneaking forward with a dagger in his hand, and so the terrible sight which greets your gaze now is doubly shocking.</p>
- <p>Stepping from out of the tapestry which covers the wall is a gigantic, bull-like creature, with the head and face of a man. Two needle-sharp fangs protrude from its bloodstained upper lip, and its eyes gleam with a murderous lust that chills your soul. What had once, only minutes before, been woven into the fabric of the tapestry, now strides towards you with slow purposeful steps, its taloned hands outstretched in eager readiness to tear you apart.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A gigantic, bull-like creature steps towards you out of the tapestry.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="625"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="625"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Exterminus</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect2">You may evade this combat after 4 rounds by <link-text>turning to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden noise startles you and you spin around to face it. A section of the wall is moving inwards, carrying with it the robes that are hanging there. A figure, dressed in a hooded purple cloak and clasping a large leather-bound book, appears in the opening. As he steps into the room the section of wall closes behind him.</p>
- <p><quote>What are you doing here, brother?</quote> he asks, his voice heavy with suspicion. You sense that he is a druid of high rank and you know your answer must be convincing if you are to avoid his wrath.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to answer by saying that you have come here to help him, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to say that you are looking for a lost possession, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you decide that actions speak louder than words, you can attack him by <link-text>turning to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Waiting in the shadows, camouflaged from detection by your cloak of Kai skills, you patiently observe the portal and guards. After several minutes, the resonant boom of a metal gong echoes in some deep and distant part of the caves. As the echo slowly fades, another sound, that of metal scraping on stone, resounds around the cavern. Then a crack of light appears along the bottom of the portal and, with a grating screech, the great wall of iron slowly rises up into the ceiling.</p>
- <p>Through the opening comes a patrol of Vazhag who are escorting a wagon stacked high with wooden boxes, barrels and sacks. A sudden rush of female Vazhag, all squealing and clamouring for food, brings the wagon to a halt directly beneath the onion-shaped portico. The escort struggles to fend off the hungry females with little effect until, with a spine-tingling screech, the portal begins to descend. A wave of panic washes over the Vazhag and they turn and run back into the cavern, fearful of being crushed beneath the falling iron door.</p>
- <p>When it is just a few feet from the wagon, the portal shudders and grinds to a halt. Those few guards and Vazhag escort who remained nearby quickly rush forward to drag the wagon from beneath the portal. You notice that the females are beginning to return and you know that you must act now if you are to escape from the cavern before the wagon is pulled clear and the iron door closes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to help you escape, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the doorway is a flight of stone steps which ascend into the gloom. You pound up the steps, your heart beating in time with your feet, and emerge at a chamber which is lit by foul-smelling torches fixed around the walls. Two passages lead out of this room: one heads towards the west, the other towards the east. You pause for a moment to use your Magnakai senses of Divination and Pathsmanship, but you detect nothing unusual about either passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to enter the west passage, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you choose to enter the east passage, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Coughing and retching, you haul your way out of the stinking bog and collapse upon the soft forest floor. For a few moments you lie there, unable to see through the mask of filth that hangs down in front of your eyes. Then, with the edge of your hand, you slowly scrape the slime from your face and look back at the threads of dark crimson blood which trace a marbled pattern against the green surface scum. They are testimony to your hard-won fight.</p>
- <p>With the memory of your battle against the bog creature still vivid in your mind, you clamber to your feet and hurry along the track heading east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Anxious to avoid being seen by the approaching Vazhag, you release your grip and allow yourself to drop silently into the lake. The moment the cold waters close above your head you strike out and swim underwater towards the north bank. The lake is dark and forbidding yet your powerful sight enables you to see the contours of the lake bed as they pass beneath you.</p>
- <p>For the most part the water is no more than twenty feet deep, hardly a depth capable of hiding the huge body of a Dholdaarg. But as you are nearing the centre you catch sight of the monster's lair. A yawning black crevasse cuts a jagged line east to west along the bottom of the lake bed. A strong undercurrent and an inky blackness tell you that this watery abyss could be several hundred feet deep.</p>
- <p>You increase your stroke and swim across the crevasse as swiftly as you can, fearful of what lurks in its hellish depths. Like an underwater cliff's edge the lake bed reappears, and beyond it you glimpse the inviting shallows of the north bank.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If the number is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect131-1-foot" idref="sect131-1">
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, you should double the Undead Plague Agarashi's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai power of Nexus, and the strength of your own two hands, you force open the barred door and gain access to the ante-room beyond. It is unlit and every surface is thick with a dust that has lain undisturbed for many years. On a marble dais, which occupies most of the floor, there stands a large rectangular stone casket. It has no lid, and as you approach it you see that it contains the mummified remains of a creature you cannot readily identify.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You approach a marble dias containing remains of a creature you cannot identify.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="593"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="593"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You can feel no evil in the vicinity of this corpse, and your senses tell you that there is nothing, other than yourself, alive in this room. Confident in this knowledge you lean forward to examine the corpse.</p>
- <p>Without warning, a powerful spike of psychic energy penetrates deep into your mind. Its icy-cold attack numbs your senses and leaves you trembling helplessly with shock&emdash;lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Reeling from the unexpected onslaught, you struggle to erect a mind shield as the mummified remains of the corpse slowly stir into life.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a claw-tipped limb snakes towards your throat and grabs you in a choking, vice-tight grip. Desperately you struggle to unsheathe a weapon and free yourself as the grisly remains of a Plague Agarashi rise up from the casket only inches before your disbelieving eyes.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Plague Agarashi (Undead/magically animated)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the speed and surprise of this creature's attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 for the duration of this fight.<a id="sect131-1" idref="sect131-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, above you, there is a loud rattling noise followed by the grating squeal of iron on stone. You spin around to look at the staircase by which you entered and, to your horror, you see a heavy portcullis come crashing down to seal off the exit. Then there is another sound: the hiss of escaping air. Your senses detect it is coming from around the great portal and, as it slowly begins to open, you reach for your weapons in readiness to defend your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you possess a Bow and an Arrow and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you do not possess a Bow, or choose not to use it, you can unsheathe a hand weapon instead by <link-text>turning to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crumbling rock wall and lack of secure hand holds fail to thwart your natural climbing ability. With relative ease you scale the shaft and emerge upon a mountainside, at a place hidden beneath an outcrop which is ringed by wind-worn boulders and scrub.</p>
- <p>Early morning sunlight illuminates the surrounding hills. Beyond them you see a vast expanse of forest, a sea of sickly grey-green trees, which radiates an unmistakable aura of evil. The position of the sun and your Pathsmanship skills inform you that you are looking upon the Forest of Ruel from the eastern foothills of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <p>The land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being a wide dirt track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the grim forest. You consult your map and conclude that this must be the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners, which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you try to swim against the current to avoid the fall of shattered rocks and fire but, despite your valiant efforts, you cannot escape being crushed by the deluge. Death is mercifully swift.</p>
- <p>The incredible bravery you have displayed during your quest has brought about the destruction of the plague virus, and the druids who knew the secrets of its cultivation. This destruction has saved millions from a terrible death, and the selfless courage you have shown in bringing this about will never be forgotten by the free peoples of Magnamund. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for your victory.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here beneath the Ghardoz bridge.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The druid's bolt knocks you flat on your back and surrounds your body with a flashing web of electrical power. Painfully you drag yourself to your feet and, as the spider-like threads of energy begin to fade, you look up to see the Cener shouting and waving at his Vazhag minions. He is commanding them to attack the ruins and rip what remains of you to shreds!</p>
- <p>With hatred blazing in their blood-red eyes, the Vazhag advance towards the derelict dwelling, each carrying a rusty weapon poised for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to stand and fight these disease-ridden Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to attempt to evade them, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gasping for air, you are forced to retreat from this seemingly impenetrable cloud of poisonous spores. For several minutes you claw your way blindly up the steep passageway until at last you reach a section where you can breathe more easily. You have survived, but you have been severely weakened by your encounter with a colony of deadly khloros fungi: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Unable to continue in your chosen direction, you turn around and reluctantly head back towards the fissure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You descend a few rungs, just far enough to put you beyond reach of the spear blades, and then you utter the words of the Brotherhood spell of Levitation. Moments later you feel gravity losing its grip and gently you push yourself away from the ladder to hover in mid-air.</p>
- <p>The Acolytes gasp in shocked surprise as you rise up to confront them eye to eye. The nearest allows his spear to waver and instantly you lash out at his vulnerable chest. The impact of your blow knocks him from the platform to fall, screaming, into the midst of the glass boxes on an experiment table far below.</p>
- <p>Gracefully you step on to the platform and crouch in readiness to fight the remaining Acolyte. He meets your stare with a sneer that readily conveys his hatred of your race. Then, spurred on by the yells of his confederates in the hall below, he jumps forward and thrusts his weapon at your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Acolyte of Vashna (With Medallion of Protection)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You trail the two novices along a series of corridors that end at a large antechamber. This domed hall is decorated with tapestries which depict Cenerese legends, ignoble and infamous deeds that were perpetrated during the Age of the Old Kingdoms, when, for nearly a thousand years, the Cenerese tyrannized Northern Magnamund.</p>
- <p>The novices hurry towards a heavy door and, as they swing it open and enter, you hear the doleful sound of chanting. Curiosity prompts you to approach the door, which they have left ajar, and peer through its narrow opening. A chill runs the length of your spine the moment you see what lies in the hall beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corpulent Vazhag continues to snore, blissfully oblivious to your presence inside his private chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you wish to cross the chamber and investigate the curtained archway, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you choose to leave the chamber via the secret door, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nimbly you dive and roll across the spongy ground to avoid the falling creepers. Your swift action saves you from the first attack, but another mass descend, moving faster than the first, and ensnare you in their thorny grasp before you can get back on your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly there is a loud crack: the support pin has popped out and, as the massive weight of the cauldron is suddenly removed, the chain whips away like an angry snake. You step back to avoid being hit by it and, from the edge of the platform, you watch with grim satisfaction as the cauldron plummets into the hall below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed and apparent ease with which you dispatched his minions shocks the Cener Druid to the core. Gibbering with fright, he turns and runs for the safety of the tunnel by which he and his now deceased underlings entered the cave. Anxious not to allow him to escape and raise the alarm, you clamber on to the platform and run across the drawbridge in pursuit of the red-robed figure.</p>
- <p>The tunnel beyond the bridge is narrow yet well-lit and you have no difficulty following your prey. Stealthily and speedily you close upon him like a lion running to ground a frightened fawn. He glances over his shoulder repeatedly as you draw nearer, then, in desperation, he skids to a halt beneath one of the many hanging bowls which illuminate the passageway. He raises both hands, as if surrendering, but as you approach him he grasps the underside of the heavy bowl and heaves it at you. Suddenly, with a sizzling rush, a gallon of blazing coal oil spills over the stone rim and comes gushing down towards your unprotected face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on all your strength to resist the terrible power which is sucking you towards its heart. In desperation you call upon the gods Kai and Ishir to aid you and, as if in response to your prayers, you sense yourself rising as the swirling vortex begins to recede.</p>
- <p>Then, abruptly, the swirling funnel evaporates and you find yourself on your hands and knees, breathless and trembling, staring at the cold stone floor of Cadak's throne room. Slowly you rise to your feet, then a faint sound behind warns you that someone or something is moving about in the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you form your lips into an <quote>O</quote> shape in readiness to utter the power word battle-spell you have been taught by Lord Rimoah. Then, the instant the spell-thoughts focus in your mind, you project the power word&emdash;Gloar!&emdash;at the middle of the fleeing druid's back. Like a sledgehammer, the sound hits him between the shoulder blades and sends him tumbling head over heels into a tangle of forest briars.</p>
- <p>Stunned and groaning, the Cener fumbles for his slender golden rod and, as if guided by more than chance, his spindly fingers locate it at once. Yet, before he can use it to retaliate, you sprint across the clearing, weapon in hand, and attack him where he lies:</p>
- <p>Cener Druid (prone):</p>
- <p><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 28</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of the gap when the first of the Vazhag's arrows come screaming towards your legs. You twist aside and avoid one of the shafts, but the other hits you in the left leg and gouges a furrow of flesh from your calf: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the sharp pain, you drag yourself through the narrow opening and emerge on a mountainside, at a place hidden beneath an outcrop which is ringed by wind-worn boulders and scrub. Early morning sunlight illuminates the surrounding hills, and beyond them you see a vast expanse of forest, a sea of sickly grey-green trees, which radiates an unmistakable aura of evil. The position of the sun and your Pathsmanship skills tell you that you are now looking upon the Forest of Ruel from the eastern foothills of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <p>The land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being a wide dirt track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the grim forest. You consult your map and conclude that this must be the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners, which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first you hobble away from the ledge lest the Vazhag, and their monstrous war-dogs, should decide to give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect146-1-foot" idref="sect146-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to the correct answer to the riddle in <a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speak your answer and instantly the lid of the box clicks open.<a id="sect146-1" idref="sect146-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Congratulations, Grand Master Lone Wolf, your reckoning was correct. Dividing any number by one half actually doubles that number. Therefore, 80 divided by one half becomes 160. Subtract 14 from 160 and you have the solution to the puzzle.</p>
- <p>Inside the box you discover a Map of Mogaruith, which details its dungeon levels. This is a Special Item which you carry tucked into your tunic. You need not discard any other Special Item in its favour if you already carry the maximum allowed.</p>
- <p>An unexpected shuffling noise, somewhere in another part of the library, causes you to freeze. Someone else has entered. You look over your shoulder at the door and decide that now would be a very wise time to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clear the gap with inches to spare but not entirely without cost. The portcullis snares your Backpack and, as you roll away, it is torn from your shoulders and crushed when the heavy portal slams to the ground. (You must now erase all Backpack Items and Meals from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>You spring to your feet instantly and run headlong across the drawbridge towards the far side. Arrows rain down on you from the battlements, but your speed and agility keep you from being hit. Then, within seconds of reaching firm ground, you are confronted by a group of three Vazhag returning from battle. Two are armed with spears and they face you on foot, but the third sits astride a captured Slovian steed. It is wielding a cavalry lance and you can tell by the way the rat-man balances it that it is skilled in its use.</p>
- <p>The two spear-wielders squeal their battle-cry and attack you simultaneously. However, this cry is quickly transformed into a duet of pain when you strike out and kill them instantly. They drop to the ground and almost immediately the rider is upon you, jabbing at your chest with the tip of its lance. You duck the first thrust, and steady yourself to meet the second as the Vazhag lancer turns and bears down on you once more.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Vazhag Lancer</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grim horde shambles nearer and close ranks, in readiness, perhaps, for a concerted attack. But combat is not their intent. As one, they open their mouths and give vent to a ghastly sound that is akin to mocking laughter, the like of which you have never heard before.</p>
- <p>As if in answer to their gleeful cacophony there arises, from out of the black shadows of the pits, a dreadful rumbling roar. Something huge is stirring deep within each of those dark forbidding shafts. As the ghoulish laughter reaches its pitch, three giant, misshapen cat-like heads rise up into the light, each perched atop a snaky body as thick as the trunk of a tree. They bare their fangs and shake off the tangle of human bones that cling to their stinking, corpse-green manes.</p>
- <p>The sight of these unholy creatures makes you reel back in shock and utter a cry of disbelief. Your cry is lost among the barrage of screeching howls, yet the cat-things react as if they hear it and, together, they come oozing out from their dark, noisome lairs and glide slowly towards where you stand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having witnessed how swiftly you dispatched his entire Vazhag escort, the Cener chooses to escape while he can. He turns and runs along the track which leads away from the clearing, and hurriedly you give chase.</p>
- <p>You catch up with him less than fifty yards along the track. In desperation, he tries to cut you down with another blast of energy but your swift reflexes save you from being hit. A well-placed blow knocks the rod from his hand and deflects the blast away into the trees. Cursing you, he unsheathes a dagger and lunges at your heart.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>Cener Druid</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door awaits an echoing hall which reeks of decay. Its walls are adorned with gruesome paintings which depict terrible scenes of human slaughter. One in particular catches your eye and, although you try hard to ignore it, you find you cannot turn your head away. It shows a pit of helpless humans, writhing and screaming in anguish as they are slowly consumed by packs of wild-eyed plague dogs. The scene shocks you deeply for the doomed humans all have distinct Sommlending features.</p>
- <p>With difficulty you tear your eyes away and force yourself to look elsewhere in this unfriendly hall. You see columns rising to the roof, each wound round with creepers and fungi which give off an unwholesome, pallid light. Ahead you see another door, identical to that by which you have entered, and before it there stands a desk on top of a plinth of green stone. A creature sits at the desk, huddled over the open pages of a ledger upon which it is writing with a feathered quill pen. As you draw closer it stops scrawling and places its quill into a nearby pot of ink, fashioned from the crown of a human skull. The creature raises its hairless head and stares at you unblinkingly with its solitary eye.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>As you draw closer the creature stops scrawling and places its quill into an ink pot fashioned from a human skull.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="569"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="569"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Who seeks an audience with He?</quote> it croaks, hoarsely. <quote>State your name, brother, and your purpose here.</quote></p>
- <p>You are standing in the antechamber of Arch Druid Cadak's throne hall. To enter the hall itself and, hopefully, discover where the deadly virus is being cultivated, you know that you must first persuade this creature to allow you to pass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you decide to say that you have come from the battlefront with important news for the Arch Druid, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to say that you are an agent who has just arrived from the Lastlands with vital information for Cadak's eyes only, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you possess Animal Mastery and wish to use it to exert control over this creature's mind, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon the power of your Animal Mastery and hold the rat-man with your piercing gaze as you demand that he grants you entry to Mogaruith without further delay. He does not respond to your power and at once you detect that his mind is shielded by some magical means which enables him to resist your will.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Grand Mastery of Kai-alchemy <em>and</em> Kai-surge, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If your score is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flame-creature rises up and hovers little more than an arm's length above your head. Its tentacles lash out and you are forced to sidestep swiftly to avoid them ensnaring you. Then, as if spurred on by the frantic cries of the cave beasts, it advances upon you. For a moment it seems to swell and contract, as if it is inhaling and exhaling a huge lungful of air, then suddenly a wall of blinding white light erupts before your eyes as a blast of psychic energy comes crashing into your mind. You reel from the unexpected shock of its impact, and your Magnakai senses are unable to shield you from its withering onslaught: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you survive this massive psychic assault, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hide yourself as best you can, taking advantage of a brace of boulders that lie beside the stone steps, and wait with bated breath as the sound of the approaching group grows louder and nearer. Torchlight flickers, casting a watery yellow beam across the cavern floor, then the first of the group enters and you catch sight of their repulsive forms.</p>
- <p>A patrol of six Vazhag file into the cavern. Each one is as tall as a Sommlending youth and all are armed with crude, rusty weapons. Fragments of armour and uniforms, which once belonged to human soldiers, encase their hairy, rat-like bodies. They are more than ten feet from your hiding place, but even so, they give off such a vile aroma of filth and disease that you are forced to draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to prevent yourself from retching out loud.</p>
- <p>They come closer and halt at the foot of the stone stairs, barely an arm's length from where you are hiding, and you hear them talking in a high-pitched squeal which reminds you of rusty door hinges. All the while they repeatedly cast furtive glances at the west tunnel entrance as if they are waiting for another of their party to catch up.</p>
- <p>Within minutes another member of their patrol does arrive, only this creature is not one of their breed: it is human-sized. However, the hooded scarlet robe it is wearing makes it difficult for you to be absolutely sure that the creature within is human. The Vazhag cease their squealing when the hooded one raises a gloved hand. In that instant, you catch a glimpse of the glassy green mask which is covering his face, and at once you recognize this mask: it is a jazak, the ritual mask of a Cener Druid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you possess Grand Mastery of Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The inquisitive Tzarg passes within a few feet of your hiding place, but your Grand Mastery saves you from detection. Eventually it waddles into the passageway from which you entered and hurries off with an excited group of Vazhag close on its heels, all of them now convinced by the Tzarg's actions that it has picked up your trail.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait until the sound of their footsteps has faded before you emerge from your hiding place and leave the hall by the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you advance to the edge of the stagnant pool, your super-sharp senses alert to the slightest hint of danger. Using your innate Magnakai skill of Invisibility you take care to mask your body heat and scent least they should stir the unwanted attentions of any keen-nosed denizens of Ruel. You pause at the pool's edge for a moment where, using your powers of Divination, you scan the surrounding darkness for invisible or hidden enemies. Sensing no threat, you continue to skirt the fetid pond and follow the stream to where it trickles out of the forest. There you are greeted by an unwholesome warmth. It rises from a decaying mulch of roots and fungi that squelch repulsively underfoot. Silently you offer up a prayer to Ishir before venturing further into this inhospitable domain.</p>
- <p>For several miles you trudge through the slime that borders the stream. This sickly strip of mud forms a narrow pathway that is, in turn, bordered by the tall trunks and thorny briars of the forest. So dense is this tangle of trees and brush that you feel sure it could only be the result of evil herbcraft.</p>
- <p>At length the stream widens and the forest begins to thin out. Soon you are able to leave the foul-smelling brook and enter the forest proper, where after a short while you happen upon the remnants of a track. It descends towards a bog from which arises a cloak of misty vapour. Warily you approach, for the fog clings to the morass and masks its dangers.</p>
- <p>Now your senses tingle: there is evil all around. At once you reach for your weapon and, as your hand closes upon it, you feel something snake-like coiling around your left foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>What blasphemy is this!</quote> gasps the druid, horrified by your answer. <quote>Know you not that it is forbidden for a brother to possess anything! The pursuit of possessions is a hammer that shatters loyalty to our cause. You will atone for this &ellips; oh yes. You will atone to me!</quote></p>
- <p>And with these crazed words the druid unsheathes a dagger and raises it above his head. A wave of psychic energy washes over your mind and, for an instant, you see his cold eyes widen with shock as he discovers who you really are. He screams a curse and the blade of his dagger is transformed at once into a yellow spike of glowing luminescence. Swiftly you reach for your own weapon as the crazed druid forces you back, stabbing and slicing the air before him with his sorcerous blade.</p>
- <combat>
- <enemy>High Priest</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute class="combatskill">47</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
- <p>This enemy is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge (but not Kai-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the creaking bowstring and send your Arrow burrowing deep into the Vazhag's chest. The rat-thing utters a strangled cry of pain and surprise as, wide-eyed, it crashes down face first into the midst of its hoard of shoddy treasure.</p>
- <p>Immediately, with an angry roar, the dog-creature springs forward with its taloned paws outstretched. You retreat, discarding your Bow in favour of a hand weapon with which to fight this ravenous beast.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pit Agarashi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge; only Kai-surge can harm it psychically.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect158-1-foot" idref="sect158-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>A narrow corridor connects the chamber to another, where there stands an imposing door made of sheeted copper, inlaid with a filigree of gold and silver. It is the only exit from this otherwise drab chamber.</p>
- <p>A closer inspection of the door reveals that it is surrounded by an airtight seal. Furthermore, there is no keyhole, drawbolt, or handle. However, your keen eyesight is drawn to a pattern in the door's centre panel which, thanks to past experience, you recognize to be a sophisticated combination lock.</p>
- <p>The gold inlays form three rows of three numbers within a grid of silver lines:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Below these numbers, in ancient Cenerese script, is carved the message:</p>
- <p><quote>Declare ye the true number to pass this way</quote></p>
- <p>Study the grid of numbers. When you think you know the answer to the riddle, turn to the page that bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect158-1" idref="sect158-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you cannot solve this puzzle, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hellish noise echoes around the clearing, a terrifying whip-like crack that sets your ears ringing. From the tip of the Cener's rod there has erupted a stream of crackling blue light. It arcs towards the dwelling and comes bursting through the blocks of ancient stone, ripping them asunder as if they were no more substantial than bales of mildewed corn. Sharp slivers of stone pepper your legs, and the blast's concussion leaves you wide-eyed and gasping for breath: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Through the smoking hole in the wall you can see that the Vazhag pack have halted in their tracks. They hold their grimy paws to their ears and grimace as the Cener prepares to launch a second blast of power from his golden rod.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide that to travel openly along the track would be too risky. Rather than chance falling foul of a Vazhag patrol, you set off through the forest, using the trees for cover, but all the while keeping the trail in sight as you trek north-eastwards toward the Cenerese stronghold.</p>
- <p>Your decision is soon justified. Within a few minutes you are forced to hide when a rickety wagon, laden with casks and escorted by a dozen Vazhag, appears on the trail ahead. Unaware of your presence, the detachment passes within yards of your position before continuing on its way southwards.</p>
- <p>It is an hour past noon when the trees thin out and you catch your first glimpse of Mogaruith. Crouching at the forest's edge, you stare awestricken by the sight of its slime-green walls and towers. This vast Cenerese fortress, rising out of the land like the thrusting fist of some vile volcanic demon, bristles with formidable defences. Turrets and bastions punctuate its sheer stone walls, and its base is ringed by a moat of bubbling water. A single drawbridge spans this moat, providing sole access to an archway lined with iron spikes, which gives the entrance a monstrous appearance, like that of a gigantic fanged maw.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You catch your first glimpse of Mogaruith, the vast Cenerese fortress rising out of the land like the thrusting fist of some volcanic demon.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="772" height="580"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="772" height="580"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Two muddy tracks lead away from the drawbridge. One is the Skardos Trail, the track that brought you here, and the other heads due east. You consult your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover that it leads to the River Storn, less than five miles distant. There a bridge spans this mighty waterway, connecting Ruel to the realm of Slovia. A small army of Vazhag, accompanied by a host of other creatures of doubtful origin, are marching away from Mogaruith in a column. Judging by their numbers, and the wagonloads of equipment they trundle in their wake, you suspect that they are marching to battle with the Freeland army of Slovia.</p>
- <p>In order to destroy the plague virus and fulfil your vital quest, you know you must gain entry to this stronghold. Anxiously you let the minutes pass as you scan the interminable lines of marching Vazhag, and the fortress walls, in the hope of spotting a means by which you could enter Mogaruith undetected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you possess a Cener Mask <em>and</em> a Cener Robe, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you do not possess both of these items, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You seize the spear and ascend the ladder as quickly as you can. The remaining archers are hot on your heels as you pull yourself on to the platform and rush towards the cauldron. Hastily you wedge the spear's shaft between the chain and its mounting, and lever it back as hard as you can. The wooden shaft begins to split and, for a moment, you are gripped by the fear that all your valiant efforts will be in vain. Then there is a loud crack: the support pin has popped out and, as the massive weight of the cauldron is suddenly removed, the chain whips away like an angry snake.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>How dare you delay me with trivial formalities!</quote> you bellow, and slap the Vazhag aside with the palm of your hand. The creature snarls and raises its spear defensively. <quote>Delay me a moment longer and I'll see you are boiled alive in your own grease,</quote> you growl. <quote>Let me pass!</quote></p>
- <p>Your bold threat works. The rat-man's confidence crumbles and nervously he shuffles to one side, lowering his spear as you advance towards him. At that moment, a column of Vazhag and a wagon laden with weapons converge beneath the archway, blocking it completely. Chaos ensues, but the confusion is to your advantage. Quickly you weave your way through the crowd and into the keep beyond where you notice several smaller entrances dotted around the flagstoned square. One in particular looks promising: a staircase that descends to a portal set into the base of the citadel.</p>
- <p>You are moving towards this entrance when unexpectedly you are confronted by three Cener Druids. They emerge from an alley and come walking towards you in a line abreast. To avoid them you are forced to sidestep quickly into a shadowy doorway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Marching shoulder to grisly shoulder the ghoulish horde advances, hungry for flesh untainted by disease and decay. Hurriedly you draw your weapon and breathe a prayer to the sun god Kai to protect you in this moment of truth. Then, with a rush, the first wave fall upon you with a mindless fury. With blurring speed you deal them blows that would consign any mortal to its doom, but the grievous wounds draw neither blood nor ichor.</p>
- <p>Tirelessly you slash and sever their grasping arms to prevent them from clawing you to the ground. They howl, but not in pain; these ghastly cries are joyous and triumphant. For no matter how skilfully you fight, you cannot resist their weight of numbers and, inch by relentless inch, they are forcing you ever nearer to the pits. As soon as you recognize their strategy you change your method of attack, and direct your blows at those parts of the creatures which pass for legs. Yet even now those parted from their limbs still advance, hunching and clawing their way forwards on their bellies whilst those that were once behind trample them underfoot.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the advance falters and the howling ceases. The grim wall of creatures draw back a few yards and close their ranks in readiness, perhaps, for a final attack. Then, as one, they open their mouths and give vent to laughter, the like of which you have never heard before. Knots of pain build at your temples and frantically you draw upon your mind defences to repel this tidal wave of evil psychic energy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite his close proximity, and his powerful sense of tracking, the druid fails to detect your presence here in the cavern. You hear him mumble a few disgruntled comments and then, with all the enthusiasm of a tired sloth, he leads his snickering group of rat-men into the south tunnel.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait for their flickering torches to be swallowed up by its dark depths. When you are surrounded by total darkness once more, you leave your hiding place and hurry away along the west tunnel. For more than five miles you follow this winding route and, despite your mounting fears, you encounter nothing more threatening than a few ragged-winged bats and a frightened rock snake. Gradually, as the tunnel delves deeper into the Skardos range, the air becomes increasingly cooler and more humid. You can smell the strong scent of water somewhere in the distance and you are not at all surprised when, as you round a sharp bend in the tunnel, you see faint shimmering reflections playing upon the rough stone ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you return to the chamber, you see the sleeping Vazhag beginning to stir from its slumber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to attack the waking Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you choose to hurry past it and escape from the chamber by means of the secret door, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With gleeful malevolence the creature Exterminus takes hold of you in a bear-hug and proceeds to crush the air from your lungs. Then, with a demonic squeal of delight, it buries its needle-sharp fangs into the side of your neck and a flash of brilliant white light explodes in your head.</p>
- <p>Consciousness deserts you. The sensation of falling overcomes your senses until you are consumed completely by a spinning vortex of darkness. The creature has taken your life, but more than this, it has sentenced you to a terrible punishment. You have been consigned to a realm where the power of Good holds no sway. You have been ensnared by the soul of Naar himself, the King of the Darkness, and as his prisoner you will remain, doomed to wander his dark domain for all eternity.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your quest ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your aim is awry and the Arrow arcs over the druid's shoulder to disappear among the trees beyond. Instantly he spins to face you and screams at his Vazhag to finish you for good.</p>
- <p>With a foul, snickering cry the Vazhag race to do their master's bidding. In a frenzy they leap upon you, hacking and stabbing with their rusty blades.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quietly you contemplate your next move as the portcullis slams down, sealing off the main exit from Mogaruith. Within a few moments your thoughts are disturbed by the sound of a large troop of Vazhag ascending the stairs by which you entered this hall. Their approach prompts you to leave by the main door and look for another hiding place outside in the keep.</p>
- <p>From the shadows of a disused storeroom doorway, you scour the surrounding battlements and walkways, hoping to see an opportunity for escape. However, it does not take too long to discover that the tower offered the only easy route out of this stronghold, one that is now blocked by the portcullis.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you hear an angry squeal and turn to see a rat-man's snout protruding from the window of a turret high up to your left. It has seen you and it is informing its confederates of your hiding place. You are forced to abandon the doorway and run into a nearby alley as a score of Vazhag guards come charging across the keep in hot pursuit. The alley is a dead end, but you find a stone stairway which ascends to the battlements and you take it in order to keep ahead of the bloodthirsty pack.</p>
- <p>At the top of the stairs you find yourself sandwiched between two converging Vazhag patrols which are racing along the battlements from both directions. To stand and fight would be futile; you would kill many but you would eventually be overcome by the sheer weight of their numbers.</p>
- <p>Now there is only one option left and the very thought of it sends a chill racing down your spine. Steeling yourself for what must be done, you sheathe your weapon, take a deep breath, then launch yourself over the battlements towards the bubbling moat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283"><link-text>Turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ably you sidestep and dodge your way through the throng of female Vazhag who are swarming around the wagon in a food-starved frenzy. One of them runs across your path, forcing you to halt momentarily to avoid crashing into her. But before you can continue, a Vazhag guard is shouldered away from the wagon by the crowd and he collides with you. Swiftly you grab the creature by the throat to stop it from warning its confederates, and drag it one-handedly towards the shadowy cavern wall.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you feel something crawling up your forearm. A wave of revulsion knots your stomach when you see a mass of black fleas coursing up your arm, migrating from the neck of the frightened Vazhag. The ghastly sight makes you loosen your grip and allows the disease-ridden creature to squeal a desperate cry for help. As one, the guards respond to the cry. They draw their rusty weapons and narrow their tiny red eyes as they abandon the wagon and advance upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to stand and fight these Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to evade them, you can escape through the open portal by <link-text>turning to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Mmmm&ellips; I did not request an attendant to assist me during devotions,</quote> he says, narrowing his cruel grey eyes. <quote>Who ordered you here? Was it Brother Jhordax?</quote></p>
- <p>You hesitate, but he does not seem to be expecting a reply.</p>
- <p><quote>That fool Jhordax. This is not the first time that he has failed to observe the protocol of this hall. You can tell your master that I am not impressed by his incompetence. He will have to answer to Him if this ever occurs again.</quote></p>
- <p>The cloaked druid sweeps past you, opens the door to the prayer hall, then slams it shut behind him to reinforce his displeasure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures cease their frenzied movement with an abruptness you find unnerving; it is as if they have suddenly turned to stone. Now that you can see them clearly they remind you of beetles, save that they are far larger and have long segmented tails. You observe them for a few moments longer, then take a tentative step forwards. Instantly they burst into life, only this time they do not confine themselves to the forest floor. With a sound like a thousand squeaky door hinges, they sprout wings and soar into the air in a formation which resembles a small black cloud. Soon they have left the clearing, and as you watch the last of them disappear over the tops of the trees, you can only hope that they are not some form of lookout employed by the Cenerese.</p>
- <p>On the far side of the clearing you discover that the trail continues deeper into the forest. You follow it for nearly an hour until your keen senses warn of danger ahead and immediately you halt in your tracks. You hear a movement: it is above and behind you. With incredible speed you spin on your heel and raise your weapon to parry a possible attack. Your reactions are fast, but they may not be quick enough to protect you from what lurks in the canopy of branches high above.</p>
- <p>From out of the darkness there falls a wriggling mass of thorny creepers that come snaking towards your head as if driven by a single mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle to extricate yourself from the bodies of the Vazhag you have slain. As you rise to the summit of the grisly heap, you glimpse the druid scurrying towards the gap in the trees by which he, and his late minions, entered the clearing.</p>
- <p>You know that he must not be allowed to escape. If he were to reach Mogaruith and raise the alarm, your mission, and probably your life, would soon be over. With fear in your heart you clamber over the dead Vazhag and work your way back along the passage, determined to stop him before he can get away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you possess a Bow and Arrows and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you possess mastery of Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you possess none of the above, or choose not to make use of them, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect that the crystal sphere is the source of the evil which saturates this room. The closer you move towards it, the harder it becomes for you to suppress the feeling of nausea and revulsion which you are currently experiencing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you flatten yourself against the chamber wall in an attempt to avoid being hit by the spinning blade.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is higher than 20, add 2 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If your total score is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly, as your Grand Mastery overcomes the magical shield placed upon this creature's mind to protect it from alien influence, the Vazhag stands aside and allows you to pass into the keep of Mogaruith.</p>
- <p>The great flagstoned square echoes with the rhythmic thump of marching troops and the squealed commands of their Vazhag sergeants. By means of a covered walkway you skirt around this busy plaza and make your way stealthily towards a staircase which descends to a grand portal set into the base of the stronghold's citadel.</p>
- <p>You have reached the north side of the keep when you are unexpectedly confronted by three Cener Druids, who turn a corner and come walking towards you in a line abreast. To avoid them you are forced to sidestep into a shadowy doorway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you unshoulder your Bow and draw an Arrow to your lips. The straining bowstring bites into your fingertips as, with smooth precision, you take aim at the fleeing druid's back. The instant you fix upon his billowing scarlet robes, you release the bowstring and send your shaft speeding towards the nape of his neck.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Weaponmastery (with Bow), add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If your total score is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Screams of <quote>Intruder!</quote> echo from below as you run headlong towards the ladder. You reach it and begin your climb towards a secondary platform, located directly below the one which supports the winch.</p>
- <p>You are only six rungs away from the platform when suddenly the faces of two Acolytes of Vashna appear over the edge. They curse and spit on you as they try to stab you with their spears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you possess neither of these Grand Mastery Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hide the bodies of your slain enemies as best you can before you leave the cavern. For more than five miles you follow the west tunnel and, despite your mounting fears, you encounter nothing more threatening than a few ragged-winged bats and a frightened rock snake. Gradually, as the tunnel delves deeper into the Skardos range, the air becomes increasingly cooler and more humid. You can smell the scent of water somewhere in the distance and you are not at all surprised when, as you round a bend in the tunnel, you see shimmering reflections playing upon the rough stone ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skills, you examine the keyhole and discover that the wall is in fact a concealed door. You attempt to pick the lock, but it is shielded by a powerful spell which you cannot overcome.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly, you are forced to abandon your efforts and retrace your steps to the top of the stairs. Once you arrive back at this point you continue your escape by taking the west passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck to avoid the sweeping tendrils, then turn and begin to run towards the clearing. You have taken but a few steps when a barbed limb lashes out and rakes the back of your legs (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>You cry out at the sudden pain and stumble to your knees, but quickly you regain your footing and manage to escape without sustaining further injury. Without looking back, you cross the clearing and press on towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nimbly you sidestep and dodge your way through the throng of rat-men who are gathered around the wagon in a frenzy of activity. One of the Vazhag runs across your path, forcing you to halt momentarily to avoid crashing into him. But before you can continue, another of his comrades steps back from the wagon and collides with you. Swiftly you grab the creature by the throat to stop it from warning its confederates, and then you drag it one-handedly towards the shadowy cavern wall.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you feel something crawling up your forearm. A wave of revulsion knots your stomach when you see a mass of black fleas coursing up your arm, migrating from the neck of the frightened Vazhag. The ghastly sight makes you loosen your grip and allows the disease-ridden creature to squeal a desperate cry of help. As one, the guards respond to the cry. They draw their rusty weapons and narrow their tiny red eyes as they leave the wagon and advance upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to stand and fight these Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to evade them, you can escape through the open portal by <link-text>turning to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A fierce and bloody battle is raging upon the Ghardoz, the formidable stone bridge that joins together the lands of Ruel and Slovia across the River Storn. Its central span is wreathed with smoke and flame, and the approaches are heaped with the dead of both armies.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>On the Ghardoz, the formidable stone bridge joining the lands of Ruel and Slovia, a fierce and bloody battle rages.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="643"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="643"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>On the far side of the river, over three hundred yards away, you can see the scarlet battle banners of Slovia fluttering in the soot-laden air. Regiments of foot soldiers are positioned on the bank, waiting nervously for their orders to assault the bridge. You stare at the fast-flowing waters of the Storn and, after careful thought, you decide to brave the currents and attempt to swim across.</p>
- <p>You send your horse away into the forest and then wade into the icy waters. You are only waist-deep in the Storn when the currents catch you and swiftly bear you away downstream, towards the bridge and the battle. You are passing beneath the central span when suddenly a section of the parapet collapses, showering you with rocks and flame.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery <em>and</em> Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If your total score is 3 or lower, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect350">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Seeking a safe place to surface, you swim slowly towards a pair of large, smooth-faced boulders that rest half-buried in the muddy shallows of the north bank. Here you break through the waist-deep water behind the nearest rock and catch your breath. A few moments later a snarling shriek echoes around the walls of the cave and a sudden chill courses down your spine; a Vazhag has seen you.</p>
- <p>Blinking the water from your eyes, you focus on the screaming rat-thing which is leaning across the rope hand-rail of the bridge. Excitedly it jabs its spear at the boulder, directing the unwanted attention of its loathsome comrades to your hiding place. The Cener Druid screams an order and, with a high-pitched cry, the Vazhag come racing back across the drawbridge, brandishing their rusty weapons. You glance about you for some means of escape but none appears. The only exit from the north bank is the tunnel and that can only be reached from the drawbridge.</p>
- <p>As the first of the Vazhag leap from the bridge and land on the shore, you know that battle is imminent. You must make a swift decision if you are to survive this deadly encounter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to dive into the lake and swim away, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you choose to stand and fight this Vazhag patrol, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect184-1-foot" idref="sect184-1">
- <p>You must have at least one Arrow in order to <cite>be able to use</cite> a Bow.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature finally overcomes your will but the exertion leaves it dizzy with exhaustion. Then you notice its bony hand is fumbling for a button which protrudes from the side of its desk. It is an alarm button.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess a Bow and are able to use it,<a id="sect184-1" idref="sect184-1-foot" class="footnote" /> <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you do not possess a Bow, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your right hand and call to mind the thoughts of the spell&emdash;Lightning Hand&emdash;as taught to you by Banedon, and focus the power of this spell upon the tips of your first three fingers. You feel a burning sensation and quickly it becomes almost unbearable: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are sorely tempted to abandon the spell, but quickly you stifle this urge and release it at the middle of the fleeing druid's back. There is a crackling sound, like the crumpling of dried leaves, then a bright blue light shoots from the tips of your fingers and hits the Cener like a hammer between the shoulder blades, sending him sprawling head first into a tangle of thorny briars.</p>
- <p>Stunned and groaning, the druid fumbles for his slender golden rod and quickly his spindly fingers locate it. However, before he can use it to retaliate, you sprint across the clearing, weapon in hand, and attack him as he lies on the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cener Druid (prone)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within twenty feet of the archway when suddenly a tremendous roar echoes around the hall. You start to run, hoping to make it through the arch and escape a confrontation, but almost immediately you are brought skidding to a halt by a terrifying sight.</p>
- <p>Advancing from the alcove is a creature whose ghastly visage is the very stuff of nightmares. From its bear-like torso there protrude four tentacles and two powerful legs, all sheathed in shaggy scales. The limbs are surmounted with horny talons which glint menacingly, and its head, set with huge fishy eyes, is bulbous and disfigured by disease. It rests awkwardly upon a crooked neck which wobbles with every movement the lumbering beast makes. A livid crimson gash just below the eyes serves as its mouth, and a long tail with sharp spines swishes behind it, gouging furrows in the surface of the marble floor.</p>
- <p>With surprising speed the beast is suddenly upon you, stabbing and slashing at your body with its sword-sharp talons.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Degradon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge (but not Kai-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instantly your Bow is in your hand, an Arrow fixed and drawn ready to fire. The Vazhag, no longer fearful now that its protector has arrived, moves away from the corner and issues a high-pitched command. The savage dog-like creature growls in response and you see its muscles tighten as it gets ready to leap for your throat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to fire your Bow at the growling dog-like creature, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you decide to fire at the Vazhag instead, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brilliance and the roar of the crackling fireball threatens to overpower your senses as it comes rushing towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For nearly an hour you follow this empty subterranean passage before your senses alert you to possible danger ahead. You can detect a musty, unwholesome smell that immediately reminds you of rotting vegetables. The further you advance into the darkness, the stronger this smell becomes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to go no further in this direction, you can turn around and retrace your steps to the fissure by <link-text>turning to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you choose to continue to explore this tunnel, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you force your way through the narrow thorny corridor, you are aware that the Vazhag are now streaming into the gap, close on your heels. In desperation, you turn and force your way into the wall of tangled briar and call upon your Kai mastery of Camouflage to mask your location.</p>
- <p>The rat-men scurry past. You hear them in the distance, burrowing deeper into the thicket, but still you remain exactly where you are. Your caution is well-placed for soon the Vazhag retrace their steps, having lost all trace of you.</p>
- <p>The Cener blazes with anger at the failure of his minions to carry out such a simple command. With a flick of his rod you see him reduce one luckless rodent to ashes, and shorten the tail of another by a broadsword's length. Loudly he vents his displeasure and, among the oaths and vile curses, you hear him utter his intention to report to his master, Arch Druid Cadak, that there is an enemy assassin at large in the forest.</p>
- <p>You know that he must not be allowed to make his report. If he were to reach Mogaruith and raise the alarm, your mission, and probably your life, would soon be over.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you possess a Bow and Arrows and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you possess mastery of Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you possess none of the above, or choose not to make use of them, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The heavy chain whips towards your face, making you throw yourself to the floor in order to avoid decapitation. Unfortunately, your reactions are not swift enough to avoid being hit. The chain glances your shoulder, knocking you flat on your back with the force of its impact: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You scramble to your feet quickly and advance to the edge of the platform from where you watch, with grim fascination, as the gigantic acid-filled cauldron plummets into the hall below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using all your stealth and natural Kai agility, you inch your way up the rocky wall of the cavern towards the window-like gap. Your ascent goes undetected by the Vazhag guards until, by mischance, your foot dislodges a pebble and sends it tumbling down to land, with a hollow <onomatopoeia>thok</onomatopoeia>, upon the head of a snoozing war-dog. The dog erupts with a savage howl and hurls itself bodily at the rock wall.</p>
- <p>Its frenzied reaction alerts the Vazhag guards and, to your horror, you see them produce bows which they load hastily and aim at your back. Throwing caution aside, you climb towards the distant gap as quickly as your aching fingers will allow, hoping to reach it before the rat-men can open fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While observing the entrance and the drawbridge for over an hour, you cannot help but notice that the flow of traffic is almost entirely in one direction: out of Mogaruith and away towards the east.</p>
- <p>Occasionally a covered wagon, drawn by a team of ox-like ghorkas and escorted by Vazhag with bandaged wounds, returns along the crowded trail and crosses the moat. The guards at the main arch do not appear to challenge these wagons; they are allowed to pass directly into the keep without slowing. You hazard a guess that they are carrying battle-wounded and you consider the possibility of getting into Mogaruith by stowing aboard the next one that appears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you wish to attempt to hide aboard the next wagon, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you decide instead to trust solely to your Kai skills and experience to gain entry to Mogaruith, <link-text>turn instead to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From deep within your being you summon the psychic energy you need to construct a fortress around your mind. The evil wave crashes against this defence and breaks into a million shards that sparkle for an instant then disappear into darkness. Your psychic energy has saved you from this concerted assault upon your mind. Yet, even as remnants of the psychic attack are fading, you sense another hostile entity is getting ready to appear.</p>
- <p>From out of the black shadows of the pits you hear a dreadful rumbling roar: something huge is stirring deep within each of those dark forbidding shafts. As the ghoulish laughter reaches its pitch, you turn to see three giant, misshapen cat-like heads rise up into the light, each perched atop a snaky body as thick as the trunk of a tree. They bare their fangs and shake off the tangle of human bones that cling to their stinking, corpse-green manes.</p>
- <p>The sight of these unholy creatures makes you reel back in shock and utter a cry of disbelief. Your cry is lost among the barrage of screeching howls, yet the cat-things react as if they hear it and, together, they come oozing out from their dark, noisome lairs and glide slowly towards where you stand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing upon your special skills and your reserves of physical strength, you pull your lower body out of the cold lake and slowly raise your knees up to your chin. The toes of your boots find footholds between the timbers and there you hold yourself, completely motionless, while your Grand Mastery of Assimilance causes your shadowy outline to blend in perfectly with the underside of the drawbridge.</p>
- <p>The Vazhag scour the lake's edge thoroughly. They search beneath the bridge, passing within a few paces of your location and yet, despite their keen senses, they completely fail to notice you. Disappointedly, they report their lack of findings to their Cenerese commander before clambering back on to the platform. You hear the Cener and the remaining Vazhag trooping across the bridge. They stop just long enough to open the Tzarg cage and drag out one of the croaking creatures. Then the cage door squeaks shut, a key jangles in its lock, and briskly the party marches away along the south passage.</p>
- <p>For a full minute you remain immobile until you are sure that the enemy have gone. Then you pull yourself up on to the bridge and, without looking back, you hurry across the lake and enter the tunnel on the north side of the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath you tiptoe past the alcove, your weapon unsheathed and held ready in case the sleeping creature should awaken. Fortunately, your Kai skills serve you well and you are able to reach the archway and leave the hall without incident.</p>
- <p>A short passage leads to a junction where a wider corridor crosses from left to right. Your skin prickles in reaction to the concentration of evil you detect in this subterranean part of Mogaruith, and silently you call upon your creator, the noble god Kai, for protection and guidance before continuing.</p>
- <p>Instinct prompts you to turn left, and within a few minutes you arrive at a chamber where a vast staircase of black marble ascends to many levels, lost in the gloom above. Opposite this grand staircase stands a large door, carved from a solid sheet of strange green metal, the like of which you have never seen before. It gives off a pulsating radiance which washes over the empty chamber, illuminating symbols carved into the walls and floor. You focus on these symbols and, in a chilling moment of realization, you decipher their meaning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon strikes the creature's skull with deadly force and the shock of the impact lifts it high out of its hollowed stool. It crashes to the floor, where it wobbles back and forth grotesquely like a giant fleshy egg, before coming to rest on its side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Patiently you wait for the flickering light of the Vazhag's torches to be swallowed up by the dark depths of the south tunnel. When you are surrounded by total darkness once more, you leave your hiding place and venture back into the cavern. You are hungry and, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>For more than five miles you follow the west tunnel and, despite your mounting fears, you encounter nothing more threatening than a few ragged-winged bats and a frightened rock snake. Gradually, as the tunnel delves deeper into the Skardos range, the air becomes increasingly cooler and more humid. You can smell a strong scent of water somewhere in the distance and you are not at all surprised when, as you round a bend in the tunnel, you see shimmering reflections playing upon the rough stone ceiling.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crackling stream of energy hits the Sommerswerd with a tremendous jolt that knocks you back a few paces, yet you manage both to maintain your grip and to stay on your feet. The sun-sword absorbs the power directed against you and transfers part of that power through your hand and along your outstretched arm. The transmuted energy revitalizes and emboldens you, (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="72"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="72"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, and cast this scabbard of sparkling energy back at the priest. Suddenly there is a tremendous flash, followed by a crackling roar as his golden rod is consumed in a blazing ball of flame. He screams as he is hurled backwards against the chamber wall by the force of the blast, then he falls to the floor where he lies completely motionless. You sheathe your sword and stare at his smouldering body, certain in the knowledge that he is no longer a threat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101"><link-text>Turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door lies a secret Cenerese prayer hall, a chapel of evil where the druids worship and make sacrifice to their foul gods. Kneeling in pews before a blood-red alter are dozens of figures. They chant a soulless dirge as they read from books bound in black cloth. Around the walls hang grim decorations: skulls, flayed skins, tattered baffle banners, and other ugly tributes to the power that is worshipped and coveted here&emdash;the power of death, disease and decay.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You look beyond the door into the secret Cenerese prayer hall where the druids worship and make sacrifice to their foul gods.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You look with loathing at the congregation. In the main they are Cenerese, but there are others among them, old adversaries whose origins you recognize immediately. Acolytes of Vashna, Drakkarim, Vassagonian outlaws, Hammerlanders, and even a few Giaks. No doubt the remnants of the Darkland armies found sanctuary here after their masters' demise.</p>
- <p>A noise in the corridor behind warns that someone is approaching the antechamber. To avoid them, you slip inside the prayer hall and hide in the shadows cast by a column which supports the roof. Moments later, three druids enter the hall and close the door before taking their places among the congregation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265"><link-text>Turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kneel beside the tunnel wall and wait with trepidation as the sound of the approaching group grows louder and nearer. Torchlight flickers, casting a watery yellow beam across the cavern floor, then the first of the group enters and you catch sight of their ugly forms.</p>
- <p>A patrol of six Vazhag file into the cavern. Each one is as tall as a Sommlending youth and all are armed with crude, rusty weapons. Fragments of armour and uniforms, which once belonged to human soldiers, encase their hairy, rat-like bodies. They are no more than ten feet away from your hiding place, and they give off such a vile aroma of filth and disease that you are forced to draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to prevent yourself from retching out loud.</p>
- <p>They halt at the foot of the stone stairs and talk with each other in a high-pitched squeal which reminds you of rusty door hinges. All the while they repeatedly cast furtive glances along the west tunnel as if they are waiting impatiently for another of their party to catch up. Within minutes another member of their patrol does arrive, only this creature is not one of their breed: it is human-sized. However, the hooded scarlet robe it is wearing makes it difficult for you to be absolutely sure that the creature within is human.</p>
- <p>The Vazhag cease their squealing when the hooded one raises a gloved hand and motions to the south tunnel, pointing directly at the place where you are hiding. For an instant, you catch a glimpse of the glassy green mask that is covering his face, and at once you recognize this mask: it is a jazak, the ritual mask of a Cener Druid.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348"><link-text>Turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steel yourself in preparation for what can only be a fight to the death as maniacally the mass of limbs comes swarming towards your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Stragnah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blazing flames engulf your body but you feel no pain. Protected by the power of your Grand Mastery, the hungry fire feels no hotter than a summer's breeze. You laugh as you luxuriate in its warmth, to the angry frustration of your would-be killer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the angry squeals of the Vazhag patrol ringing in your ears, you race through the portal and escape along the winding passageway beyond. For nearly a mile you run without slowing until you turn a corner and are brought skidding to a halt by an unwelcome sight: a group of rat-men advancing along the passageway towards you. Although you have gradually outdistanced your pursuers, the sound of their squealing reminds you that they are still hot on your trail.</p>
- <p>Trapped between the two approaching enemy patrols, you look in vain for some other means of escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to use your Kai skills to try to hide from the approaching Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you decide to ambush the oncoming patrol in an attempt to break through them and escape before your pursuers arrive, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow a circular tunnel for several minutes until you come to a flight of steps leading down. Here, a few paces before the steps begin, you see a plain wooden door which is set into the tunnel wall. An inquisitive prod with the toe of your boot reveals it to be unlocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you wish to investigate what lies behind the door, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you choose to ignore the door and descend the steps instead, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dawn breaks and the sun appears through a rent in the ominous mass of grey cloud that is swirling overhead. You stop and tilt back your head to enjoy the warmth of its life-giving rays upon your face. It is a brief respite, for within minutes the clouds close ranks and you find yourself immersed once more in the forest's gloom.</p>
- <p>During the night the track has led you out of the valley and up a steady rise towards a plateau where a jutting spur of slate-grey rock stands surmounted by a score of lightning-blasted trees. There, in the shadow of the rock, your eagle-eyes detect three dark pits which have been dug side by side. You cannot see what lies at the bottom of these excavations, but you can sense that they radiate a powerful aura of evil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Divination in order to detect any psychic residues which may be lingering at this site, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you decide not to use this ability, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your power at the Tzarg and will it to leave the hall along the passage by which you entered. At first you sense resistance to your command but this soon collapses and the Tzarg obeys. It waddles into the passageway with an excited group of Vazhag close on its heels, all of them now convinced by the Tzarg's reaction that it has picked up your trail.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait until the sound of their footsteps has faded before you emerge from your hiding place and leave the hall by the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice a flicker of suspicion register in the creature's eye.</p>
- <p><quote>The Arch Druid is not present in his chamber at this hour,</quote> he says, reaching once more for his quill. <quote>Dictate your report to me and I shall see that he receives it this day.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You approach the desk and, as you draw closer, you see that the creature has no legs. Its body rests in a crevice hollowed out from the seat of its stool. Its bulbous body is wedged there like an egg in a cup.</p>
- <p>Carefully it charges its pen with ink and prepares to commence writing.</p>
- <p><quote>Report your news, brother,</quote> it says, impatiently, <quote>I am waiting for you to begin.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you choose to attack the creature, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you decide to try and bluff your way past, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calling upon your Grand Mastery, you order the vicious war-dogs to cease their attack immediately. Instantly they obey your psychic command; they scrabble to a halt and turn their eyes to the floor, their once-chilling howls now little more than a weak chorus of kitten-like whimpers.</p>
- <p>Having cowed them, you now use your power to redirect their latent aggression against their masters and, suddenly, they are transformed once more into a host of gnashing, snarling beasts. Horror fills the eyes of the Vazhag guards as their dogs turn around and come bounding towards them, hungry for the kill.</p>
- <p>In the ensuing chaos, you skirt around the hall and escape through the entrance unchallenged. For a moment you are blinded by the early morning sunlight which illuminates the surrounding hills, but, as you escape along the trail which leads away from the caverns, your vision clears and you see a vast expanse of forest away to the east. This sea of sickly grey-green trees radiates an unmistakable aura of evil that immediately identifies it as the Forest of Ruel.</p>
- <p>Your escape is not pursued and, after a few minutes, you stop among a cluster of boulders in order to catch your breath. The surrounding land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being the track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the unwelcoming forest. You consult your map and conclude that this is the Skardos trail, the secret route used by the Ceners which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag literally shiver with fright. Frantically they acknowledge your order and set off towards Mogaruith, with you following close behind, but they have only gone a little way when suddenly they drop the zombie's chain and flee headlong towards the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you possess a Bow and a minimum of two Arrows, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flame-creature seems to swell and contract, as if it is inhaling and exhaling a huge lungful of air, then suddenly a wall of blinding white light erupts before your eyes as a blast of psychic energy comes crashing into your mind. You reel from the unexpected shock of its impact, but instantly your Kai senses react by erecting defences to shield you from the onslaught: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>An unholy screech, full of fear and frustration, echoes loudly in your ears. The flame-thing has detected that you are capable of defending yourself and this realization is far from its liking. For a few fleeting seconds it whirls around your head, and then, with a final howl of anguish, it dives away into the gloomy depths of the stairwell and is gone.</p>
- <p>Disappointedly, the caged creatures watch the flame-thing depart before they shuffle dejectedly to the rear of their cells and settle themselves down once more. Shaken, but relatively unharmed by your psychic encounter, you stare down the stone staircase into the gloom below. Tentatively you put one foot forward, but your Kai skills and your common sense tell you that to go any further in this direction would be sheer foolhardiness. With reluctance you turn and leave this landing and retrace your steps all the way back to the junction where you continue instead by way of the north tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85"><link-text>Turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and attack the druid with lightning speed, but this Cener is more of a match than he first appears. In the blink of an eye he creates a magical shield which deflects your initial blow, causing you to stumble and nearly overbalance. As you recover you feel a wave of psychic energy washing over your mind and, for an instant, you see his cold eyes widen with shock as he discovers who you really are.</p>
- <p>He screams a curse and suddenly there is a dagger in his hand, its blade a yellow spike of fiery luminescence. He lunges at your throat, forcing you to retreat into the room as he stabs and slices the air with this sorcerous weapon.</p>
- <combat><enemy>High Priest</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">47</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This enemy is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge (but not Kai-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first the Vazhag and the Cener seem unaware of your presence and you feel confident that your Kai skills are keeping your location secure. However, just as they are about to leave the cavern and head off towards the south tunnel, the Cener suddenly spins around and points directly at your hiding place.</p>
- <p><foreign xml:lang="x-cenerese"><quote>Scarzh&emdash;nah!</quote></foreign> he screams, and with such vehemence that you are left in no doubt that you have been detected.</p>
- <p>The Vazhag draw their weapons and rush towards the steps in response to their leader's cry. The sudden danger galvanizes you into action and, like a panther hungry for the kill, you spring to your feet and leap among the onrushing rat-men, striking down the two nearest with one wide, sweeping blow. Before they have fallen you kick out at the chest of another and feel its ribs crack under the impact. A side-swipe puts paid to a fourth of their number, neatly parting its disease-riddled head from its shoulders and, as you pause to draw breath, you see the remaining enemy backing away in shocked confusion.</p>
- <p>Ineptly they fumble with their weapons while the Cener screams at them to avenge their slain comrades. One Vazhag plucks up enough courage to attack you but you duck its whistling sword stroke with ease. Before it can strike again, you dispatch the beast with a lightning-fast stab through the heart. Your strike is executed with such economy of movement that, to the druid and the remaining Vazhag, it looks as if you hardly moved at all. For the sole surviving Vazhag it is the last straw and, with a squeal of abject terror, it drops its torch and rusty blade and abandons the druid for the dark safety of the south tunnel.</p>
- <p>Cursing vilely, the Cener retreats until his red-robed back is pressed flat against the cavern wall. His mask hides his entire face, yet even so you can sense the blazing hatred that is pouring from his eyes, as if it is a stream of liquid fire. You raise your weapon and advance, eager to finish him swiftly, but you are halted by a sudden, unexpected pulse of psychic energy that crashes like a wave against your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the narrow passageway which gradually ascends towards the north. The clanging of a distant alarm bell reminds you that all of Mogaruith has been alerted to your presence and, in light of the devastation you have caused, you know better than to expect mercy from the Cenerese if they should catch you now.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes the passage arrives at a hall where a railed balcony overlooks a deep circular shaft. A broad stone staircase at the north wall ascends to the next level and you stride swiftly towards it. As you pass the balcony you pause for a moment to stare down at a fascinating sight. Hundreds of feet below, at the base of the shaft, huge vats filled with a sickly brown fluid bubble and seethe as if they are boiling on a hob. You notice scores of robed druids standing on a great iron gantry suspended above these vats, each one equipped with what appears to be a gigantic butterfly net. They are busily scooping up large brown objects which keep bobbing to the surface of the morass. You use your Magnakai skills to magnify your vision and, as the scene looms larger, you see that the objects are alive. Your stomach churns with revulsion when you suddenly realize what it is that you are looking at. These are the spawning vats in which the Ceners create their loathsome, disease-ridden Vazhag.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You stare down at the base of the shaft where huge vats filled with a sickly brown fluid bubble and seethe.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A noise from the staircase attracts your attention; it is the sound of shuffling footfalls descending the stairs. Moments later your keen sense of smell identifies the threat: a Vazhag patrol is hurrying towards the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you wish to attempt to hide from this patrol, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you decide to stand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spit out the words of a Brotherhood spell and instantly you rise into the sky, as if plucked off the ground by some invisible giant. The crackling ray speeds past below your feet and explodes harmlessly among the ancient rocks. As the dust settles, you arrest your levitation and lower yourself back towards the ground, your muscles tense in readiness to run as soon as your boots touch down.</p>
- <p>The druid is visibly stunned by your display of magic. However, he quickly recovers his senses, and as soon as you return to the ruins he shouts at his Vazhag minions, commanding them to attack and rip you to shreds.</p>
- <p>With hatred blazing in their blood-red eyes, the Vazhag advance towards the ancient ruins, each carrying a rusty weapon poised for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to stand and fight these disease-ridden Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to attempt to evade them, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of scraping metal and rattling chains echoes in your ears. You stoop to retrieve your weapon and, as you spin around, the first thing you see is the knife-like glint of fangs. From a semicircular hole in the wall a pack of war-dogs come charging into the hall, their jaws agape and their claws scrabbling on the shiny flagstones as they race towards the desk. With the cool battle-confidence of a Grand Master you brace yourself in readiness to meet their attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ruel War-dogs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The glass orb explodes on impact with a loud bang and you are engulfed by a cloud of sickly grey gas. At once you feel your throat tighten and your stomach churn as the deadly bacteria-infested vapour penetrates deep into your lungs: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Coughing and retching, you stagger towards the entrance, your escape hidden by the cloud of poisonous gas. You have inhaled a deadly cocktail of plague viruses to which the Vazhag are naturally immune, a cocktail which would have killed an average human within seconds; only your Magnakai skills have saved you from an agonizing death.</p>
- <p>In the ensuing chaos, you escape through the entrance unchallenged. For a moment you are blinded by the early morning sunlight which illuminates the surrounding hills but, as you stumble along the trail which leads away from the caverns, your vision clears and you catch sight of a vast expanse of forest away to the east. This sea of sickly grey-green trees gives off an unmistakable aura of evil that immediately identifies it as the Forest of Ruel.</p>
- <p>Your escape is not pursued and, after a few minutes, you stop among a cluster of boulders in order to catch your breath. The surrounding land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being the track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the unwelcoming forest.</p>
- <p>You consult your map and conclude that this is the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow that trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The wagon is filled with the bodies of dead soldiers&emdash;human soldiers&emdash;all of whom have perished from the effects of a virulent disease. They have been stripped of weapons and armour but their tunics bear a scarlet crest emblazoned with a black stallion, readily identifying them as Slovians. Several have minor wounds caused by tiny fragments of glass. The wounds are a tell-tale sign that these troops were killed by narbul bombs: spheres of glass filled with a mixture of explosive and deadly plague spores. They have become one of the most feared battlefield weapons used by the Cenerese against the Freeland armies.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As the wagon trundles across the drawbridge you ponder why the Vazhag should be transporting a wagonload of dead Slovian soldiers to Mogaruith. Before you can fathom an answer, the wagon passes through the great arch and comes to a halt on the north side of the stronghold's keep, close to an open doorway. Before the Vazhag disembark, you leap from the wagon and hide just inside this shadowy entrance to avoid being seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow decapitates the monstrous lake creature, sending its vile head, with its fanged jaws still clashing madly, spinning through the air to splash into the foam-flecked waters close to the platform. For a few moments the weaving neck, its scaly stump oozing reptilian gore, thrashes the surface before it, too, is swallowed up by the cold dark waters of this underground lake.</p>
- <p>Aching and breathless, you sheathe your weapon, then wipe the spatterings of Dholdaarg blood from your face with the back of your trembling hand. The Tzargs, who were silent throughout your titanic struggle with the lake monster, now rattle the bars of their cage and croak incessantly. You recognize their crude language enough to realize that their captors are returning. However, before you can act on their warning, a shudder runs through the timbers of the drawbridge and you are forced to grip tightly with both hands as jerkily it begins to descend.</p>
- <p>Inexorably the bridge approaches the platform, inching you nearer and nearer to the cold, bloodstained waters of the lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you wish, you can leap for the shore of the lake before the drawbridge fully descends, by <link-text>turning to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you choose to remain where you are, clinging to the underside of the bridge, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cauldron smashes down into the centre of the hall and explodes with devastating effect, spewing its deadly contents in all directions. A tidal wave of acid engulfs the tables, submerging and burning everything not made of stone, porcelain or glass. The pitiful screams of the druids rise above the thunderous din as they and their deadly work are consumed by a merciless sea of corrosive.</p>
- <p>Suddenly an arrow passes within a few inches of your face. The Vazhag archers have reached the top of the ladder and are poised to rush on to the platform itself. Anxiously you look around for some means of escape, but when none readily appears you fear you are trapped. Then you notice an observation platform jutting out of the wall. It is over on the far side of the hall, more than thirty yards away, and lies some ten feet below your present position.</p>
- <p>A daring escape plan forms in your mind's eye and hurriedly you cast off your Cener Robe and Mask, a disguise which is now redundant, and prepare to enact your vision (erase the Robe and Mask from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). You reach out and grab hold of the chain which once supported the cauldron. Then, using all your strength, you draw it back and leap into the air as the momentum carries you off the platform.</p>
- <p>Your stomach churns as you swing across the hall and glance down at the dreadful carnage taking place a hundred feet below. Angry squeals and a clutch of arrows follow in your wake as the Vazhag archers try desperately to prevent you from getting away. Grimly you cling to the chain as it nears the end of its arc, and try to ignore the arrows that are whistling by on either side.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have chosen. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 28 or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If your total score is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect221-1-foot" idref="sect221-1">
- <p>You must defeat the Plague Hound before turning to <a idref="sect114">Section 114</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a moment of terror when first you glimpse the hideous visage which emerges from the portal. It is of a gigantic hound with mad red eyes that burn into your mind with a furnace-like intensity. It sees you and howls ferociously, baring yellow fangs dripping with foam.</p>
- <p>Before it can leap up you release your arrow and plant it deep into the creature's ghastly skull. The beast roars as the arrow penetrates its head but the wound does not stop it from attacking. Aghast, you drop your Bow and unsheathe a weapon to meet its assault. Moments before it strikes, you glimpse the outline of an armoured warrior standing in the open doorway. He is shouting at the beast, commanding to rip you to shreds.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Plague Hound (wounded)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is attacking you simultaneously with a powerful psychic blast. Unless you possess the Grand Mastery of Kai-screen, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you win the combat in 4 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If the combat lasts 5 rounds or longer, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.<a id="sect221-1" idref="sect221-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin around to see a figure standing in the doorway. He is tall and his sharp features are framed by a mane of flowing platinum hair. In his left hand he carries a wizard's staff and in his right he holds a feathered quill, the pen of the creature who was once his scribe.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A tall figure with a mane of flowing platinum hair stands in the doorway.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="569"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="569"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Was it you who murdered Cordask?</quote> he asks, his powerful voice devoid of the slightest emotion. But when you do not answer him immediately his voice and his expression undergo a dramatic change. His eyes radiate an unearthly glow and your skin tingles as you feel his psychic energies probing at your mind.</p>
- <p><quote>You are not a brother,</quote> he growls, like a rabid dog, and casts the quill aside.</p>
- <p><quote>Take off your mask and show your true self &ellips; assassin!</quote></p>
- <p>And with that he advances towards you with his staff pointing straight at your heart. You raise your weapon defensively and, in the blink of an eye, a crackling flame lights at the tip of his staff and comes roaring towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You set off towards the open portal whilst the rat-men gather inquisitively around their injured comrade. Unfortunately, one of these comrades is gifted in the psychic arts, and at once it senses your presence. It jumps upon the wagon and points accusingly at your fleeing form as it screams a warning to its fellow guards.</p>
- <p>As one, the Vazhag guards respond to the cry. They draw their rusty weapons and narrow their tiny red eyes as they turn and advance upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to stand and fight the Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to evade them, you can escape through the open portal by <link-text>turning to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great flagstoned square echoes with the rhythmic thump of marching troops and the squealed commands of their Vazhag sergeants. Your first concern is to part company with your undead companion as soon as you can, for his presence is already attracting attention from the passing Vazhag. An empty storehouse becomes his new home and, after you have paused to bolt the door, you make your way stealthily towards a staircase which descends to a grand portal set into the base of the stronghold's citadel.</p>
- <p>You have reached the north side of the keep when you are unexpectedly confronted by three Cener Druids, who turn a corner and come walking towards you in a line abreast. To avoid them you are forced to sidestep quickly into a shadowy doorway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dig your heels into the muddy shore and take aim at the leading Vazhag. It sees you and, for an instant, its red eyes widen with horror as your shaft speeds towards its snout. With a hollow <onomatopoeia>thok</onomatopoeia> the arrow skewers the beast's scrawny throat, lifts it bodily from the bridge and sends it toppling end-over-end into the lake.</p>
- <p>Undeterred, the remaining Vazhag come thundering off the drawbridge and on to the platform. With the magic curses of their leader echoing in their ears, they leap to the muddy shore and charge straight at you, their rusty weapons glinting dully in the light of the cave.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">23</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus on the metal pin and summon forth all your psychic power, condensing it and directing it towards this piece of iron in an attempt to disrupt its structure from within. Faint cracks appear in its surface as the bombardment exacts its toll.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 25 or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 15 or lower, deduct 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect227-1-foot" idref="sect227-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mindful of how near you have just come to being detected, you hurry to the section of wall from where the druid appeared and search for a way to make it open once more. You discover a lever and, within seconds of pulling it, the concealed panel glides inwards allowing you access to a secret passage.</p>
- <p>The narrow passageway descends by steps and slopes to a chamber which is lit by two large black candles, fixed into holes in the surface of a marble slab. On a nearby table lie the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Arrows</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>2 Daggers</li>
- <li>1 Sword</li>
- <li>Mirror</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to take any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Opposite the slab there is a door which opens into a narrow corridor. You step through and follow this corridor to a room where stands an imposing door made of sheeted copper, inlaid with a filigree of gold and silver. It is the only exit from an otherwise drab and gloomy chamber.</p>
- <p>A closer inspection of the door reveals that it is surrounded by an airtight seal. Furthermore, there is no keyhole, drawbolt, or handle. However, your keen eyesight is drawn to a pattern in the door's centre panel which, thanks to past experience, you recognize to be a sophisticated combination lock.</p>
- <p>The gold inlays form three rows of three numbers within a grid of silver lines.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Below these numbers, in ancient Cenerese script, is carved the message:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>Declare ye the true number to pass this way</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Study the grid of numbers. When you think you know the answer to the riddle, turn to the entry which bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect227-1" idref="sect227-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you cannot solve this puzzle, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly before midnight, you and the Captain ride out of Stonewatch on two fine Slovarian steeds. It is another moonless night and the plain is shrouded by darkness, yet you have no difficulty in seeing the terrain that lies ahead. Using your natural Magnakai skill of Huntmastery, every flowing contour of the grassy plain is revealed to you. The Captain is not so gifted, but the special spectacles he wears fully compensate for his lack of night vision. They were a token of gratitude from the Arch-Chief of Chaman for his services in defence of the city of Gleesh during the war against the Darklords, and often they have been of use to the Captain when scouting his country's border with Ruel.</p>
- <p>In less than an hour you arrive at a grassy knoll which overlooks the dense, forbidding wall of trees that is the Forest of Ruel. You are dismounting when something causes you to halt mid-way. You perceive a scent being carried on the night air: it is the heavy, cloying stench of decay.</p>
- <p><quote>There is great evil here,</quote> says the Captain, observing your reaction. <quote>You would not be thought faint-hearted were you to return with me to Stonewatch.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I will return to your fortress, Captain,</quote> you reply, your voice quietly resolute, <quote>but not until my task at Mogaruith has been completed.</quote></p>
- <p>The Captain smiles and raises his steely hand in a salute to your brave determination. <quote>Very well, my lord. So be it. Until that glad day dawns I shall pray for your safety and success.</quote></p>
- <p>Then he brings his horse about, takes yours by the reins, and bids you a final farewell before heading back to Stonewatch. <quote>May the gods watch over you and deliver us swiftly from the darkness of Mogaruith.</quote></p>
- <p>You return his salute and watch as he gallops away with your steed in tow. Then, when finally he disappears, you turn to observe the gloomy forest perimeter. At first, the tangle of underbrush and trees appear to be so interwoven that they form an impregnable wall. Yet, at length, you see that there are two points where entry is possible. The first is where a sickly stream emerges from the forest to feed a stagnant, scum-encrusted pond; the second is where a tree has fallen and torn a hole in the thorny briars.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you wish to enter the Forest of Ruel by way of the stream, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you choose to enter through the gap created by the fallen tree, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The inquisitive Tzarg passes within a few feet of your hiding place, but your Magnakai skills save you from detection. Eventually it waddles into the passageway from which you entered the hall and hurries off with an excited group of Vazhag close on its heels, all of them now convinced by the Tzarg's actions that it has picked up your trail.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait until the sound of their footsteps has faded before you emerge from your hiding place and leave the hall by the stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75"><link-text>Turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your camouflage skills to mask your passage, you enter the forest and follow the track into the deepening gloom. Your senses come alive to the evil that permeates every root and branch of this forbidding place and, as darkness closes in, your fears are heightened by a sickly mist which seeps out of the ground. Its corpse-like chill leaves you shivering, despite all your efforts to shield yourself from its clammy touch.</p>
- <p>You are a Grand Master and night no longer restricts your vision. As the track ascends towards a wooded peak, you see the outline of a ruined stone watchtower perched atop a rocky knoll. You sense that the tower is deserted and, keen to escape from the mist, you climb towards a crack in its granite base. You crouch to enter the jagged breach and, in doing so, you disturb a host of crab-creatures nesting within. In a frenzy they scuttle away from the tower, disappearing among the surrounding rocks in the blink of an eye.</p>
- <p>Aching with fatigue, and mindful of the perils which still lie ahead, you settle yourself into a corner of the rubble-strewn tower and try to snatch a few hours of sleep. This night your slumber is disturbed by strange and unwholesome dreams, formed from the fears suppressed by your conscious mind. You are hunted by phantom shapes which take the form of friends and fellow countrymen. Kai initiates under your tutorage and simple Sommlending folk, their heads bowed and their faces pitted and disfigured by plague, drift past you in a seemingly endless procession.</p>
- <p>You awake with a start, your pulse racing and your forehead glistening with beads of sweat. At first a sense of hopelessness washes over you, brought on by the vivid memory of your nightmare, but as your consciousness returns, so too does your inner strength. You perceive the dreams as a warning of what will happen should your quest fail, and this realization strengthens your resolve to reach Mogaruith and thwart the Cener's evil plan.</p>
- <p>You have slept for several hours and, physically at least, you feel refreshed (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). In the half-light of early morning you gather together your equipment and weapons in readiness to resume your perilous journey to Mogaruith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An agonizing pain shoots up your left leg, forcing a scream from your lips. With fearful trepidation you glance down and see that a Vazhag arrow has found its mark. The shaft has skewered your calf: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You draw upon your healing skills to deaden the searing pain just long enough so that you can reach down and snap the arrowhead from the shaft. Then, as swiftly as you can, you withdraw the shaft and cast it down into the hall.</p>
- <p>A wave of nausea leaves you trembling, but the sensation soon passes and, aided by your determination and your healing skills, you force yourself to resume the ascent towards the winch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow misses its mark and arcs harmlessly into the trees, allowing the druid to effect a hasty escape along the forest track. Cursing your luck, you run across the clearing and give chase.</p>
- <p>You have been on his trail for less than a mile when you sense danger ahead. The druid has managed to reach another patrolling pack of Vazhag, much larger than his own escort, this one led by six of the druid's brethren. He informs them of your presence and, using their corrupted form of herbcraft, they cause the undergrowth to close in upon you and hold you prisoner. Marshalling all your skills, you manage to cut your way free of its grip, but not before the druids have mustered reinforcements from Mogaruith.</p>
- <p>They attack you mercilessly with the full might of their evil craft. Courageously, you defy them, but their combined power is far greater than even a Grand Master can withstand. With the name of your gods and your country on your lips, you finally meet your doom here in the Forest of Ruel.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Walking across the age-blackened drawbridge towards the spiky arched tower of Mogaruith is an unnerving experience. It is as if you are walking along a blackened tongue towards the gaping throat of some gigantic dragon. On either side the bubbling moat releases foul fumes which fill your nostrils with a terrible sugary stench that clogs your lungs and blurs your vision. You draw upon your Magnakai skills and your vision clears, but the sight which lies ahead looks no more inviting than it did before.</p>
- <p>At the tower you are challenged by a troop of Vazhag guards. Using your Magnakai Disciplines of Animal Control and Pathsmanship to aid your deception, you inform them that you have come to deliver the zombie to Brother Croumah at the Hall of Sacrifice. Immediately, the guards scurry aside, bowing subserviently as they part to allow you entry to the great keep of Mogaruith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect234-1-foot" idref="sect234-1">
- <p>According to <cite><a href="&link.05sots;">Shadow on the Sand</a></cite> Section 2, one dose of the Oede herb can heal 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of damage.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect234-2-foot" idref="sect234-2">
- <p>Since you <quote>take down half a dozen jars</quote> and there are exactly six types of herbs in the list, it may safely be assumed that one jar contains all of a given herb or potion. (e.g. one jar contains all five doses of Laumspur) If each jar is one Backpack Item, then the Cener have created some <em>extremely</em> concentrated potions which take up very little space.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You insert the gleaming key into the keyhole and twist it clockwise. There is a faint click and, as you push, the wall glides inwards then moves away to your right. It reveals a small well-kept chamber, its walls lined with shelves containing hundreds of stoppered jars, each one neatly labelled.</p>
- <p>The jars contain all manner of compounds and elements, from worthless dirt to precious gold dust, and many herbs besides. You search along the shelves and take down half a dozen jars whose contents you recognize:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Laumspur (Enough for 5 doses) Restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.</li>
- <li>Alether (Enough for 4 doses) Increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for duration of one fight only.</li>
- <li>Gallowbrush (Enough for 2 doses) Induces 10 hours' sleep and loss of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose.</li>
- <li>Sabito (Enough for 2 doses) Enables user to breathe underwater.</li>
- <li>Laumwort (Enough for 3 doses) Restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if swallowed before or after combat.</li>
- <li>Oede (Enough for 1 dose) Very rare and valuable. Many healing properties. Cures serious diseases.<a id="sect234-1" idref="sect234-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep one or more of the above jars, remember to record your choice on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. All of these jars are Backpack Items.<a id="sect234-2" idref="sect234-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Apart from the secret door by which you entered, you notice that there is a narrow passageway which leads out of this room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to leave the room by this passageway, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to leave by the secret door and retrace your steps all the way back to the west passage, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow strikes the druid in the back and its tip skewers his evil heart. He takes a few faltering steps, then raises his arms and vents his death-cry before collapsing into the undergrowth.</p>
- <p>You run to where he has fallen and, as you reach his lifeless body, the Vazhag pack appear, alerted by his scream. The moment they see you, standing over their leader like a hunter over his kill, their nerve appears to crumble. They lower their weapons and begin to edge away. Then the leading rat-men panic; they turn and run, and the others quickly follow suit, leaving you alone with the body of the dead druid spread-eagled at your feet.</p>
- <p>Curiosity prompts you to prise away the druid's green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity. Reluctantly you search him and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (if kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your powerful psychic defences shield you from this mind scan as it passes over your body. The light, reflecting from the Cener Mask you are wearing, activates a sensor in the door and, as you walk forward, slowly it begins to slide open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race after the fleeing druid and catch up with him less than fifty yards along the path. In desperation, he tries to cut you down with another blast of energy but your swift reflexes save you from being hit. A well-placed blow knocks the rod from his hand and deflects the blast away into the trees. Cursing you, he unsheathes a dagger and lunges at your heart.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cener Druid</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw aside the mouldy velvet curtain and at once your senses are assailed by an unwholesome aroma redolent of decaying flesh. Beyond the curtain a narrow passage descends, by means of a wooden ramp, to the edge of a dark circular pit. Cautiously you approach the rim and peer down into this reeking hollow. There, lying asleep on a mouldering bed of straw, ten feet below, is a gigantic dog-like creature. It has a shiny blue-black hide and a huge crocodile-like jaw. It is muscular, although its powerful limbs are scarred and pined with an unsightly disease.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Peering into a dark pit, you see lying asleep on a mouldering bed of straw a gigantic dog-like creature.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="578"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="578"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A few thin rays of light are descending from a shaft in the rocky ceiling directly above the pit. Intrigued, you look upwards and notice a clump of sickly foliage at the very top of the shaft which is partially covering the entrance. You focus on this gap and conclude that the shaft must lead directly to the surface, at a place somewhere in the eastern foothills of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you wish to attempt to scale the shaft and escape into the foothills, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you decide not to attempt to climb the shaft, you can turn around and leave the pit area. <link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a small foul-smelling chamber lit by a single candle perched atop a three-legged stool. A bed with a straw mattress fills one corner, and a bench with drawers stands by its side. A shelf on the wall displays three cracked plates, a lump of stale cheese, some dried meat, some bread, and a bottle of brownish water (in all, enough provisions for 1 Meal).</p>
- <p>You pull open the drawers and find some assorted clothing, infested with fleas, and a Copper Key. If you decide to keep the Key, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. Satisfied that nothing has been overlooked, you leave the room and descend the stairs at the end of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347"><link-text>Turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick the lever and turn to approach the throne room door. There is a faint rumble and the great metallic portal slowly glides open to reveal Arch Druid Cadak's private domain.</p>
- <p>The room is little larger than the antechamber, however its furnishings and appointments are lavish in the extreme. Ornately carved furniture, inlayed with gold and precious gems, lines walls hung with priceless tapestries and paintings. At the centre of the chamber stands a great black chair, sculpted to display demonic creatures paying homage to the Cenerese. Glowing orbs hang suspended from the ceiling, bathing the chamber in a multi-hued light which is continually changing in colour and intensity.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Although your eyes and your Kai senses tell you that the chamber is empty, you are reluctant to pass through the door. A stench of pure evil is flooding out from this room, wafting over you like an invisible sea that seeks to soil and corrupt all it touches. Fighting back your nausea, you force yourself to cross the threshold and search the chamber before its owner returns.</p>
- <p>Of all the precious items which crowd this room, your eye is attracted to three that seem to stand out from the rest. The first is a large crystal sphere which rests on a table beside the great chair. The second is a tapestry, the largest of them all, which hangs directly opposite the door. And the third is a gold statuette which rests on a shelf to your left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you possess Grand Mastery of Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a deep breath, then you fix your eyes on the descending portcullis as you race out of the door and sprint across the cobblestoned keep. The heavy portcullis is less than three feet from the ground when you enter the arch of the tower. In desperation you dive at the shrinking gap and, as you hit the ground, you roll over in the hope of avoiding being crushed by this heavy iron-tipped portal.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 25 or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For an hour you follow the muddy track as it twists a tortuous route through the trees of this accursed realm. Baleful eyes observe your passing yet you choose to ignore them for you sense that these watchers pose no real threat to your safety. They are lowly animals that possess little intelligence and even less courage (though you fancy the latter would not be so if you were weak or wounded). The path ascends a ridge, then drops steeply towards the floor of a mist-enshrouded valley where you happen upon something that brings you to a halt.</p>
- <p>A moss-grown skull lies on the path ahead, its jawbone agape as if uttering a silent scream. Beyond it lie two skeletons in rotting mail, half-buried in a nest of saw-toothed briar. Then, through the mist, you see weapons, rusted and mouldering, and the grisly remains of a warhorse, its armoured rider slumped astride its ruined back. You are advancing towards the horse when you hear a sound that draws your eyes away to the east. It is a busy, squeaking noise, muffled by the dense undergrowth.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="169"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="169"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You leave the path and melt into the tangled trees. With careful steps you edge towards the noise, your senses straining to extract information from your surroundings until you become almost a part of the forest itself. Then you detect movement ahead and, from the cover of a thorny bough, you draw your weapon and wait in readiness.</p>
- <p>A line of rat-like creatures, each as tall as a youth, is wending its way along the forest path. They are armed with crude and rusty weapons and clothed in rags that once were worn by human soldiers. Your keen sense of smell detects the vile aroma of disease which hangs heavy about these loathsome rat-men, and at once you realize that these must be the Vazhag that Rimoah spoke about. Shielded by your Magnakai skills, you watch in silence as they file past your hiding place and slowly disappear. When you are sure they have gone, you sheathe your weapon and continue your trek towards Mogaruith.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have climbed little more than halfway up the shaft when a snickering growl echoes from below. Awoken by falling clods of earth and dust, the gigantic dog-like creature now stands erect with its head tilted back and its fiery red eyes fixed on you. It gives a hungry roar and, with terrifying agility, it leaps from the pit and starts to claw its way up the shaft after you. Hurriedly you press on in the hope of reaching the entrance before this creature reaches you.</p>
- <p>You are less than ten feet from the top when the creature slashes at your legs with its razor-sharp claws. A searing pain shoots through your calves, making you cry out with shocked surprise: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Quickly you draw up your injured legs before it can strike again, and you glimpse the beast's huge fang-filled Jaw. It snaps at your feet ravenously, spraying them with its foul saliva, and at once you know that you cannot hope to out-climb this horror. If you are to escape from the shaft in one piece, you must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pit Agarashi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your precarious position you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 6 points for the duration of this fight. If the weapon you are using is a Broadsword, a Spear, or a Quarterstaff, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by a further 3 points. This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge; only Kai-surge can harm it psychically.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you advance towards the shimmering lights and, as the tunnel begins to level off in the distance, you see that it opens out into a huge cave. The shimmering is caused by a line of glowing beacons hung by chains from the vault-like ceiling of the cave. Their warm amber light is reflecting upon the cold dark waters of a lake.</p>
- <p>At first there appears to be no way across the lake, but as you draw nearer to the tunnel's end you see a spur of rock and a raised drawbridge on the opposite side. On the near side, close to a platform upon which the bridge rests when lowered, there stands a large iron cage filled with giant frog-like creatures. These must be the Tzargs that Lord Rimoah spoke of, the scouts bred by the Ceners to guide them through the swamps of Caron. A pair of Vazhag are teasing and taunting the Tzargs with sharpened sticks, jabbing them through the criss-crossed bars of their rusty cage.</p>
- <p>After a while the rat-men tire of their spiteful game. Casually they cast their sticks into the lake and then settle themselves down upon the muddy shore. The larger of the two produces a haunch of maggoty meat from a haversack slung over its shoulder, and eagerly the two Vazhag proceed to devour this vile food. Both are seemingly oblivious to the hungry cries of the caged Tzargs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41"><link-text>Turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The thorny vines hold you in a vice-like grip. With Cadak's cold laughter ringing in your ears you struggle to escape before the hands of his demonic servant, Exterminus, close around your throat.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-alchemy or Magi-magic, add 3 to the number you have chosen (if you possess both of these Grand Master Disciplines, add 7). If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is higher than 16, add a further 1 to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If your total score is now 6 or lower, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your lungs aching desperately for air, you propel yourself towards the shimmering, pale blue light and burst through the surface, choking and spluttering like a netted fish. You gulp at the cool air hungrily and try simultaneously to take stock of your new surroundings. You have surfaced in a vaulted chamber, small by comparison with the one from which you have just escaped, but substantial nevertheless. Here, there is no shoreline, just sheer rock walls, but to your left you see a narrow ledge of flat stone and you swim towards it. As you clamber out of the water you notice the source of the pale light that drew you to this chamber. Directly above the ledge there is a natural chimney which rises into the ceiling, and at its end you see a warm, lantern-like glow. The chimney is rough and pitted, and to someone of your experience it is as easy to climb as a wide-stepped ladder.</p>
- <p>Within ten minutes you reach the neck of the chimney and find yourself staring through a hole at the floor of a passageway beyond. The source of the light comes from several oil lamps which hang at regular intervals from the roof of this narrow tunnel.</p>
- <p>You can sense the presence of Vazhag somewhere in the vicinity, and so you choose to wait here in case a patrol is about to pass this way.</p>
- <p>During your wait, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">To continue, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two figures look down at their ghastly handiwork and shake their heads in dismay. As you watch, the sloat shudders beneath its bonds and becomes abruptly still. One of the robed figures stoops to inspect the creature's exposed heart, then you hear him whisper words of disappointment that, yet again, their experiment has failed.</p>
- <p>They wipe their bloodied hands on their robes before leaving the laboratory, locking the door behind them. Sensing that you are now alone, you take the opportunity to search the laboratory, including seven of its eight smaller ante-rooms, but you find nothing that remotely resembles the cultivation of a plague virus. The eighth ante-room, the door to which is bolted and barred, is the only area of the laboratory you have not investigated.</p>
- <p>Although the main door is now locked, during your search you have discovered one other exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you wish to leave the laboratory by this door, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you decide to investigate the eighth ante-room, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Straining with all of your might, you pull back on your weapon in a desperate attempt to prise the heavy chain from its mounting. Then there is a loud crack: the support pin has popped out and, as the massive weight of the cauldron is suddenly removed, the chain whips away like an angry snake.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If it is 2&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If it is 6&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With little effort you are able to draw on your mastery of Nexus to protect yourself from the effects of the corrosive acid. Where you have been splashed, you cause the affected skin to exude a strong alkaline that immediately neutralizes the acid. Quickly the pain recedes and you are able to escape along the tunnel, away from this deadly shower.</p>
- <p>You reach the distant staircase and stop to cut away the parts of your cloak and tunic that have been eaten by the acid. To your annoyance you find a smouldering hole in the top of your Backpack and, when you check the contents, you discover that two items have been damaged beyond repair. (Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those items which you have noted second and fourth on your list of Backpack Items.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">To continue, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow strikes the druid in the back and its tip skewers his evil heart. He takes a few faltering steps, then raises his arms and vents his death-cry before collapsing into the undergrowth.</p>
- <p>You run to where he has fallen and curiosity prompts you to prise away his green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity. Reluctantly you search his body and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 space in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperate to prevent the creature from sounding the alarm, you unsheathe a hand weapon and throw it at its hairless head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 4 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the smoke from the explosion clears, you see a jagged, flame-blackened hole where once there had been a lock. You kick the door and it creaks open, allowing you to enter the hall which lies beyond.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, the sound of the explosion did not go unnoticed and as you rush into the hall you are confronted by a creature freshly awoken by the noise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A thorough search of the druid's body uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Jar of Black Berries</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Triumphantly, you clamber over the corpses of the slain war-dogs and advance menacingly towards their handlers. The sight of your stern, blood-flecked face is enough to break the nerve of these Vazhag guards, especially now that their canine protectors lie sprawled in a lifeless heap upon the cavern floor. Shivering with fear, the rat-men retreat and allow you to escape unchallenged.</p>
- <p>For a moment, as you emerge from the hall, you are blinded by the early morning sunlight, but as you escape along the trail which leads away from the caverns, your vision soon clears and you see before you a vast expanse of forest away to the east. This sea of sickly grey-green trees radiates an unmistakable aura of evil that immediately identifies it as the Forest of Ruel.</p>
- <p>Your escape is not pursued and, after a few minutes, you stop among a cluster of boulders in order to catch your breath. The surrounding land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being the track which wends its way eastward through the hill towards a gap at the edge of that unwelcoming forest. You consult your map and conclude that this is the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run through a maze of corridors and narrow passageways, up flights of stairs and across dingy halls and chambers. On several occasions you are forced to hide when a Vazhag patrol passes within a few feet, but your wits and your camouflage skills keep you safe and undetected.</p>
- <p>At length you reach a pillared hall on the surface level where you hide from the patrols until the coast is clear. Daylight is streaming in through the hall door, and from where you are hiding you can see the keep and tower beyond. Your hopes rise when you notice that the keep is deserted and the drawbridge is still lowered, tempting you with a direct escape route out of Mogaruith.</p>
- <p>Suddenly another bell tolls, adding to the persistent din of the alarm. It is coming from the tower and it signifies that the portcullis is being lowered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to make a dash for the tower and escape across the drawbridge before the portcullis seals off this route, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you decide to try and find some other way of escaping from Mogaruith, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>How dare you delay me with trivial formalities!</quote> you bellow, and slap the Vazhag aside with the palm of your hand. The creature snarls and raises its spear defensively. <quote>Delay me a moment longer and I'll see you are boiled alive in your own grease,</quote> you growl. <quote>Let me pass!</quote></p>
- <p>Your bold threat works. The rat-man's confidence crumbles and nervously he shuffles to one side, lowering his spear as you advance towards him. At that moment, a column of Vazhag and a wagon laden with weapons converge beneath the archway, blocking it completely. Chaos ensues, but the confusion is to your advantage. Quickly you abandon your undead companion and weave your way through the crowd, into the keep beyond. There you notice several smaller entrances surrounding the flagstoned square. One in particular looks promising: a staircase that descends to a portal set into the base of the citadel.</p>
- <p>You are heading towards this entrance when unexpectedly you are confronted by three Cener Druids. They emerge from an alley and come walking towards you in a line abreast. To avoid them you are forced to sidestep quickly into a shadowy doorway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98"><link-text>Turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Forewarned by your powerful senses, you are able to avoid the wriggling creepers by diving and rolling across the spongy forest floor. As you begin to rise to your feet, you fix your eyes on those vines and suddenly you realize that they are not plants after all&emdash;they belong to a creature that is hiding in the canopy above. The creeper-like tendrils are part of its natural camouflage.</p>
- <p>Suddenly another mass of the tendrils descend and spread out in an attempt to locate you. One brushes against your foot and immediately the others hone in on your position like a swarm of hungry eels. You raise your weapon and strike a mighty blow which tears away a great swath of the creature's wriggling limbs. A fountain of ichor erupts from every severed end and, from somewhere above the canopy of branches, you hear an unearthly roar of pain. Once more the remaining tendrils seek you out; this time they are no longer soft and fibrous, but stiff and studded with barbed thorns.</p>
- <p>The swirling mass strikes out for your throat. Desperately you hack at them with devastating effect yet more and more emerge from above to replace them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you wish to evade this creature, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you choose to stand and fight it, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag huddle together on the shore, snarling and spitting as they await the right moment to strike. On a signal they fan out in a semicircle and confidently begin their approach. They growl curses and one hurls its spear at your chest which you sidestep effortlessly and catch in mid-flight. In an instant you send this rusty shaft whistling back to skewer its owner's heart. Shock ripples through the ranks when the Vazhag victim emits a strangled squeal and falls snout-first into the mud, but their sudden fear is soon dispelled when, from the safety of the bridge, the druid bellows an angry command. He orders the Vazhag to kill you and, as one, they surge forward and attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The overpowering aura of evil that filled this room has now vanished. You close your eyes and, for a few seconds, you allow your Magnakai sense of Divination to analyse the psychic residues lingering at the place where Exterminus disappeared. Shapes take form in your mind and, in a moment of chilling discovery, you fathom the secret of the crystal sphere.</p>
- <p>The sphere was not of this world. It was fashioned in the Plain of Darkness, the domain of Naar, King of all that is Evil. Through the sphere the Dark God maintained contact with Arch Druid Cadak, directing him to fulfil his schemes of vengeance. The destruction of the sphere has rid your world of a terrible device, a channel through which the concentrated Evil of Naar had been allowed to pour unchecked.</p>
- <p>You open your eyes once more and a feeling of well-being envelops your senses, as if you have just awoken after a deep and refreshing sleep (restore 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). A rustling sound draws your keen eyes towards the tapestry from where Exterminus appeared; it is crumbling to pieces. As the rotting scraps of material fall away, a portal is revealed through which you glimpse a scene that revives your hopes for your quest's success.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon issues the order to his dwarven crew to set a course for Palmyrion. Then, as the hum of the craft's powerful engine rises in pitch, he ushers you into his cabin where a welcoming meal awaits. Effortlessly the Skyrider ascends into the moonless sky and speeds southwards across Sommerlund's forested heartland, while you endeavour to enjoy your friend's good food and company and try not to dwell too much on the daunting task that lies ahead. Together you reminisce about past times spent aboard the Skyrider, and recall the adventures you shared in the far-away lands of Anari and Vassagonia.</p>
- <p>A few hours later, as your airborne voyage is nearing completion, the conversation turns to the quest in hand. Banedon tells you that you are bound for the Palmyrion city of Holona where your guide, Captain Cearmaine, is patiently awaiting your arrival. At once you recognize the name; you recall having heard tell of the Captain's feats of bravery during the Darklands War where his actions won more than a single battle and earned him commendations from more than a dozen Freeland nations. Lord Rimoah has served you well, for in all of central Magnamund you could not have wished for a better guide than Cearmaine.</p>
- <p>It is an hour after midnight when the Skyrider passes over the glimmering waters of the River Reloni and descends towards the flat-roofed Canatarium, the largest of Holona's eight municipal halls. There you are greeted by the Captain, a man whose proud face bears the scars of his many battles. He offers his hand in friendship and you are mildly shocked when your fingers close around a palm crafted of cold steel.</p>
- <p><quote>A keepsake from the Battle of Vellino,</quote> he says, raising his metal hand so that you may inspect it in the light of the Skyrider's bow lanterns. <quote>Alas, the first was stole away by a Drakkar's axe.</quote></p>
- <p>Captain Cearmaine is eager to leave Holona before sunrise. His carriage awaits to take you south to his command at Stonewatch, a military fortification which stands within sight of the Forest of Ruel. Before you leave, Banedon wishes you success and godspeed. He and his crew will be awaiting you here in Holona in readiness to return you to Sommerlund once the quest has been accomplished. You bid your old friend a fond farewell then settle yourself down into the plush comfort of the Captain's carriage.</p>
- <p>For four hours you are lost in dreamless slumber as the carriage wends its way across a hundred miles of open grassland trail. When next you open your eyes it is to the sight of a grey dawn breaking over the Palmyrion plain, and the sound of a sentry's war-horn announcing your arrival at Stonewatch. A company of horsemen, each clad like the Captain in ring-mail armour and a flowing chequered tunic of crimson and blue, emerge from the outpost and ride forward to meet the carriage. The Captain acknowledges their salute and watches with pride as faultlessly they change formation to escort the carriage through the outpost's stout wooden gate. Beyond lies a drill square that, even at this early hour, resounds to the shouts of command and the measured stamp of soldiers' feet. You disembark near a watchtower and swiftly the Captain ushers you inside and leads you to his quarters on the uppermost level.</p>
- <p>You spend the day in his company and together you discuss your approach to Mogaruith while you wait for night to fall. After careful study of his maps, the Captain proposes two possible routes by which you can reach the Cenerese stronghold. The most direct way is to enter the Forest of Ruel and journey due east. This is by far the shortest way, but it could also prove to be the most perilous. You recall Rimoah's account of what lurks in this dread forest and the memory alone is enough to send a shiver coursing down your spine. The alternative is to journey southwards into the Skardos Mountains and enter one of the many subterranean passages that pass through that range. If you can find your way to the Skardos trail, the secret route by which the Cenerese enter and leave their realm, you should be able to follow it all the way to Mogaruith. Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> before making your decision.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you decide to approach Mogaruith via the Forest of Ruel, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you choose to make your approach via the Skardos Mountains, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Confidently you draw on your Magnakai power of Nexus and focus it at the lock. You will the crude mechanism to open but, to your surprise, you sense that it is protected by magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move to the centre of the hall and unsheathe your weapon in readiness to receive the approaching patrol. A frog-like Tzarg is the first thing you see. It is tethered on a chain, and its ugly face is pressed close to the stone steps. It shuffles down the stairs, snuffling and snorting like a bloodhound as it locates your scent.</p>
- <p>Close behind it come eight Vazhag warriors, armed with swords and maces. The instant they see you they squeal with delight and fan out in an attempt to surround you. Freed from its cruel handlers, the Tzarg waddles away into the passage as quickly as it can to avoid the fight which is about to commence.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag patrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat. The Vazhag attack simultaneously and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With deceptive ease you reach forward and pluck the spinning blade from the air when it is barely inches in front of your chest. The Vazhag looks at you aghast, frozen momentarily by the shock of what it has witnessed, but it is galvanized into action upon the instant you send the blade spinning back across the chamber, aimed at its head.</p>
- <p>The knife misses the creature's head by a finger's length, strikes the chamber wall, and rebounds with a dull metallic clang. It falls at the Vazhag's feet and is snatched up in its defence as you advance swiftly upon the creature, weapon in hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Fat Vazhag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">18</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Raising your right hand, you call to mind the thoughts of the Brotherhood spell of Lightning Hand, as taught to you by Guildmaster Banedon, and focus the power of this spell upon the tips of your first three fingers. You feel a burning sensation. It becomes more intense until your whole hand aches with a gnawing pain (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>You are tempted to abandon the spell but quickly you stifle this urge and project the spell at the middle of the fleeing druid's back. There is a crackling sound, like the crumpling of dried parchment, then a bright blue light shoots from the tips of your fingers and hits the Cener like a hammer between the shoulder blades, sending him sprawling head first into a tangle of thorny briars.</p>
- <p>Stunned and groaning, the druid fumbles for his slender golden rod and quickly his spindly fingers locate it. However, before he can use it to retaliate, you sprint across the clearing, weapon in hand, and slay him with a single blow to the head. Curiosity prompts you to prise away the druid's green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you search him and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In case there are any among the congregation who have the power to sense your presence, you draw upon your Disciplines of camouflage and mental defence to minimize the risks of being detected.</p>
- <p>A few uneventful minutes pass until another druid enters the hall, ascending from a circular stairwell to your left. He is a tall, imposing figure, dressed in glittering blue robes edged with black velvet. The congregation rises as he walks to the altar, where he turns to face them.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="295"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="295"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Be seated my brothers,</quote> he commands, in a voice that is deep and resonant. At once you suspect that he is Arch Druid Cadak himself, but his opening address soon dispels this idea.</p>
- <p><quote>The battle against the Slovians goes in our favour. We have repulsed their puny attacks and our defences along the Storn remain intact. The Slovians are beaten. They are too weak to threaten us again. I, Kadrian, have seen the great river running red with the blood of their slain.</quote></p>
- <p>Upon hearing this the congregation screech their approval until Kadrian calls for silence. Then, from a tome lying on the altar, he begins to read the opening passages of a service dedicated to Xuzargha, the Cenerese god of pestilence. The gathering fall to their knees, raise the hoods of their robes, and close their eyes in reverence as they listen devoutly to Brother Kadrian's sonorous voice.</p>
- <p>Anxious to leave this hall, you look around for a means of escape. Two opportunities present themselves: the circular stairwell by which Brother Kadrian entered the hall, and a door to your right marked <quote>Vestibule</quote>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you wish to descend the circular staircase, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you decide to enter the door marked <quote>Vestibule</quote>, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel floor is mostly solid stone but heavily littered with powdered rock and mouldering rubble. Slowly you advance, treading carefully among this debris to avoid making any sound that could betray your presence. The unwholesome stench becomes stronger the deeper you explore this eerie passageway, and you feel a warmth radiating from within your chest, as if your lungs had been replaced by two gently glowing coals. Your Magnakai curing skills are working to keep you safe from harm, for the air of this passageway is thick with a host of microscopic organisms, a virulent airborne cloud of disease.</p>
- <p>At length the tunnel descends to a wide landing where a stone staircase plummets into darkness. Here, to your left and right, you see two small cave mouths criss-crossed with rusty iron bars. Only the slow drip of dank water punctuates the silence, but your super-senses detect that these cave-cells are not devoid of life. Huddled in the shadows are several blue-black shapes, hunched and entangled so as to form one unseemly mass upon the floor. Languidly an eye blinks open, then another, then three more. Slowly, limbs and torso disengage themselves from the mass and rise up unsteadily. For an instant you catch sight of the whole creature and you are shocked by its awful visage. A shaggy goat-like head is perched atop a snaky neck, and it wobbles repulsively as the beast staggers upright. Like its fellow creatures, its bloated trunk is riddled with disease and decay. As it shuffles drunkenly towards the bars, you see in its hellish eyes a baleful green glow. At first you feel a mixture of revulsion and pity for these creatures, but this feeling is suddenly replaced by cold fear when you notice that the green glow does not radiate from their eyes&emdash;it is reflected in them!</p>
- <p>Swiftly you spin on your heels, your hand reaching instinctively to unsheathe your weapon. Confronting you now at the top of the stone stairs there hovers a monstrous shape, fashioned as if from shimmering green flame. Two whip-like tentacles extend menacingly from its core and a toothless fiery maw gapes like a death wound from where, if it were human, its face should be.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Confronting you now at the top of the stairs there hovers a monstrous shape, fashioned from shimmering green flame.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="572"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="572"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Frantically the caged beasts claw and rattle the bars of their cells as the flaming creature comes gliding towards you, borne silently on moth wings of green fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fix your eyes on the observation platform as you wait for the chain to reach the end of its arc. Upon the instant that momentum stops, you release your grip and hurtle through the air towards the platform's rail. You have timed your jump to perfection, but your landing leaves much to be desired. You collide heavily with the rail, bloodying your nose and bruising your hands and shins, yet you still manage to hold tight and prevent yourself from falling backwards to your doom (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Winded and bleeding you drag yourself over the rail and stagger toward the inviting darkness of the doorway which services this platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the rat-men pushes his snout to within inches of your face and says, to your surprise, that you can seek an audience with the Arch Druid so long as you first register your arrival. He points to a door in the tower wall and asks you to enter it. <quote>There,</quote> he says, <quote>you can make your registration.</quote></p>
- <p>Immediately your Magnakai sense of Divination warns that the Vazhag is lying; a prison cell awaits you beyond that door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to do as the Vazhag requests and enter the door, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you refuse to enter the door, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With all your strength you resist the terrible power that is sucking you towards its heart. In desperation you call upon the gods Kai and Ishir to aid you, and as if in response to your prayers, you sense yourself rising as the swirling vortex begins to recede. A terrible pain wracks your mind and body (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but it does not break your will to survive this supernatural ordeal.</p>
- <p>Then, abruptly, the swirling funnel evaporates and you find yourself on your hands and knees, breathless and shivering, staring at the cold stone floor of Cadak's throne room. Slowly you rise to your feet, then a faint sound behind warns you that someone or something is moving about in the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill of Nexus, you cause several of the boxes and sacks to fall from the rear of the wagon. They splinter and tear open, spilling foul-smelling foodstuffs which immediately incite the hungry females to rush forward once more. In the ensuing chaos you leave your hiding place and attempt to escape unseen through the portal.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Mastery of Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The west passage continues for several hundred yards before ending at a heavy oak door. As you approach it you can sense an evil at work somewhere beyond, and the stench of its corruption stirs your anger.</p>
- <p>With weapon in hand you run at the door and give it a mighty kick, sending it crashing open. With ease you have gained access to the chamber beyond, but you are stunned by the awful sight which greets your eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic defences buckle under the sudden onslaught and a wave of red-hot pain sweeps unchecked through your mind: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Almost immediately you muster your psychic Magnakai skills and the pain melts away, but the attack leaves you shivering with psychic shock. Seeing a slender advantage, the druid acts quickly to exploit it. He draws a dagger from inside his robes and hurls himself forward in a desperate attempt to drive it into your heart.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cener Druid</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">23</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to the speed and desperation of his attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 20 points for the first round of this combat only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike and sever the plant-like tendril, but immediately there is another, then another. With the speed of striking snakes they ensnare your legs and wrench you into the morass. Desperately you fight to free yourself as you are dragged deeper into the foul-smelling mire. Repeatedly you strike out below the surface, in the hope of dealing your attacker a mortal wound, and you feel something burst upon your weapon's tip. Momentarily, the creature's grip falters, but only to recover with renewed strength and tenacity.</p>
- <p>Then sharp pain lances through your thighs as row upon row of barbed claws spring out from the unseen creature's tendrils and puncture your skin. You scream in agony and your cry is echoed from beneath the surface of the bog pool by the sound of a malicious, bubbling laugh.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the smoke from the explosion clears, you see a jagged, flame-blackened hole where once there had been a lock. You kick the door and it creaks open, allowing you to enter the hall which lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter how hard you try you cannot prise the chain from its mounting; you need to use a longer weapon in order to exert more leverage on the pin. Looking around you see nothing that can aid you, but then the image of the ideal object springs into your mind and you rush to the platform's edge. Below you, lying on the first platform, you see one of the slain Acolyte's spears.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you grab hold of the ladder and begin a hurried descent. As you leap the last few feet to the platform you are confronted by the first of the Vazhag archers. A kick to the snout sends this slavering rat-man tumbling to his doom, but no sooner has he disappeared than another pops up to take his place. You draw your weapon and steel yourself for combat as the Vazhag comes leaping from the ladder with a knife held ready to cut you down.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag archer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">21</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Vazhag stops snoring and the silence freezes you in your tracks. The creature prises open its beady eyes, caked with dried sweat, and its whiskered nose sniffs the air suspiciously. Then, as if suddenly electrified, the pudgy rat-man rolls off the divan and reaches with its paw for something hidden beneath the fur covers. You decide to make an escape and pull at the secret door, but it will not open. Somehow the Vazhag has locked it.</p>
- <p>You turn to face the nervous creature, your hand on the hilt of your weapon as you advance threateningly. In response it darts towards a corner of the chamber and huddles there, shivering with fright. But before you can reach the Vazhag and pull it to its feet, there is the sound of heavy footfalls and suddenly something comes bursting through the curtained archway.</p>
- <p>Before you now stands a gigantic dog-like creature with fiery red eyes. Its shiny blue-black hide ripples over a muscular frame and a huge crocodile-like jaw protrudes from its cruel, canine face. It is sleek and powerful, yet, as it draws nearer, you see that its hide is pitted and scarred by a virulent disease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you possess a Bow and Arrow and wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinct alone prompts you to take a chunk of the fungi from your Backpack and swallow it whole. Within seconds of consuming the tinder-dry flesh you feel a core of resurgent strength welling deep within your chest. Your spore-choked lungs burn no longer and you can breathe once more with ease.</p>
- <p>Immune to the insidious effects of the spore-cloud you battle your way through the tunnel to a clearer section several hundred yards beyond. Aided by a fungus from another world, you have survived an encounter with a colony of deadly khloros spores. Few can claim as much!</p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrows ricochet from the iron rungs and pass perilously close to your legs, but your agility and the speed of your ascent save you from being hit. Undaunted by the barrage, you continue climbing towards the winch with increased determination.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clamber out of the derelict hut and run towards a narrow gap in the trees. A thorny corridor lies beyond it, leading away into darkness. With the fanatical shrieks of the Vazhag echoing in your ears, you muster your courage and leap into the gap.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you do not possess this ability, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once inside, you close the door gently and breathe a sigh of relief. You find yourself alone in a small room which reeks of a heady mixture of incense and sulphur. Scarlet robes line the walls, hanging from wooden pegs driven into the crumbling plaster, and upon a solitary table are heaped a pile of green masks, fashioned from a glass-like mineral.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you possess a Cener Robe and a Cener Mask, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess neither (or only one) of these items, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature finally overcomes your will and, in that instant, you see its eyes widen with fearful recognition. Then you notice its bony hand is gliding rapidly towards an alarm button which protrudes from the side of its desk. You advance towards the desk but it is too late: the button has been pressed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag's eyes widen in alarm when it sees you approaching. It opens its mouth as if to scream, but a sharp blow to the side of its neck with the edge of your hand renders it instantly unconscious. You are about to search its pockets when a faint scrabbling sound warns you that the pit creature is on the prowl. Rather than face that nameless horror, you hurry across the chamber to the secret door and make a hasty escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the surface with a mighty splash and sink like a stone. Foul fluids fill your nose and mouth, causing you to cough and retch as you struggle to rise to the surface. You are submerged in a deadly cocktail of acids and toxic wastes from the dungeons of Mogaruith and, were it not for your Magnakai Disciplines of Nexus and Curing, you would have perished within seconds of entering the moat.</p>
- <p>The Vazhag on the battlements are squealing in triumph for they are certain that you have jumped to your doom. They leave the wall and return to their duties for, in their experience, no living thing has ever survived a dip in the moat. When you do break the surface and strike out for the bank, you do so unseen. It is not until you are pulling yourself out of the moat that your luck suddenly fails you.</p>
- <p>You are spotted by a group of three Vazhag returning from battle. Two are armed with spears and they face you on foot, but the third sits astride a captured Slovian steed. It is wielding a cavalry lance and you can tell by the way the rat-man balances it that it is skilled in its use. The two spear-wielders squeal their battle-cry and attack you simultaneously. However, this cry is quickly transformed into a duet of pain when you strike out and kill them instantly. They drop to the ground and almost immediately the rider is upon you, jabbing at your chest with the tip of its lance. You duck the first thrust, and steady yourself to meet the second as the Vazhag lancer turns and bears down on you once more.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You are spotted by a Vazhag returning from battle, sitting astride a captured Slovian steed.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="640"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="640"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag lancer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the narrow opening you discover a dusty passage sandwiched between two walls of rough, unyielding stone. Worm casts and a myriad animal tracks mark the surface of the dirt floor, revealing at once to your expert eye that no creature larger than a domestic cat has trodden the floor of this passage in the past three months. Confidently you explore and, unhindered by the darkness, you experience no difficulty in following its sinuous course towards the heart of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <p>You have been walking for two miles before you reach a junction where a wider tunnel leads away, both to the east and the west. Unlike the passage, this tunnel has been excavated from the rock and its walls still bear the scars of shovels and picks. Your Magnakai sense of Divination reveals no imminent dangers and your Pathsmanship can detect no unusual tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, you can investigate either the east tunnel (<link-text>turn to 118</link-text>),&ellips;</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">or the west tunnel (<link-text>turn to 189</link-text>).</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently, like a cat, you pad along the corridor towards a distant light. The promise of finding a laboratory has raised your hopes of a swift victory for perhaps it is here that you will find the Cenerese crafting their evil diseases.</p>
- <p>The entrance to the laboratory is unguarded, so you slip inside its open door and hide behind one of the many stone pillars that support a cavernous roof. At the centre of the chamber you see two robed figures huddled over a stone table. Surrounding them are wooden racks filled with strange implements, scrolls, books, jars and other paraphernalia. They appear to be tending to a large frog-like creature which lies spread-eagled upon the table, its limbs secured by coarse ropes. It is not until you are two steps away from the table that you recognize the creature to be a sloat&emdash;a beast of burden much used to tow barges along the River Storn. Your stomach churns when you see that the poor creature is being dissected whilst alive and conscious.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you have ever visited the town of Quarlen or the ruins of Maaken in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you have never been to either of these locations, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you slay the last creature an eerie silence envelops the site. The howling horde have ceased their dreadful caterwauling and now their mindless faces contort with sorrow as they stare at the sundered remains of the pit beasts, twitching and convulsing in the last throes of death.</p>
- <p>You spin around to face the horde, your steely gaze taunting them to approach you if they dare. But none possesses the will to continue and slowly, one by one, they turn and melt away into the surrounding trees, like phantoms into a mist. Lying on the gore-stained ground close to the pit's edge, you notice a coil of fine copper chain. You pick it up and, in doing so, discover that it is attached to a key embedded in the mud. You can sense no aura of evil surrounding this key, and its cut and crude markings tell you nothing about its origins.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Copper Key, remember to record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>You leave the pits and hurry on your way along the leafy tunnel. For several miles you progress in a near-darkness that is broken only by a few scattered rays of grey light creeping through the ceiling above. At length the tunnel ends and you emerge into a clearing where stand the derelict remains of an ancient stone dwelling. You approach it warily, sensing the presence of magic, yet inside its shattered walls you find nothing but mould and clumps of sickly black grass. Then your skills of divination tingle afresh as the presentiment of sorcery increases. Suddenly you realize that the source is not here in this ruined hut: it is approaching the hut.</p>
- <p>Through a crack in the stones you see a gap appear in the wall of trees opposite and a group of Vazhag enter the clearing, their ratty faces sniffing at the heavy, humid air. Among their number is one who is not of their breed. He is human in size and stature, though his hooded scarlet robes make it difficult to be sure. For a moment you catch a glimpse of the glassy green mask covering his face and at once you know that this being is a Cener Druid. In his hand he carries a rod of gold that is radiating the aura of magic which you detected when first you entered the clearing.</p>
- <p>The Cener calls his pack to a halt. They cease all movement and watch in quiet awe as he raises his golden rod and uses it to make a slow, deliberate sweep of the clearing. Hurriedly you draw on your Magnakai skills of Invisibility and Pathsmanship to shield you from detection as the Cener sweeps back the rod and levels it directly at the derelict hut.</p>
- <p>Waves of psychic energy flow across your mind. Steadily they grow in intensity, probing and testing your defences to breaking point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The statuette is carved from solid gold. It depicts a delicate female figure with flowing hair and slender limbs. Were it not for the goat-like horns protruding from her forehead, and her long barbed tail, you would have thought this statuette to have been modelled on a beautiful human girl.</p>
- <p>Propped against the statuette you notice a Gold Key. If you wish to take this key, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.</p>
- <p>You are staring thoughtfully at the statuette when suddenly your daydreaming is disturbed by a faint sound; someone or something is moving in the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the rat-men succumbs to your fatal blows, you look towards the bridge to see the Cener Druid gibbering with fright. He is horrified by the ease with which you disposed of his escort. Nervously he gathers up his robe and runs for the safety of the tunnel by which he and his now-deceased underlings entered the cave. Anxious not to allow him to escape and raise the alarm, you clamber out of the shallows and pull yourself on to the drawbridge in time to see his red-robed figure disappearing along the passage.</p>
- <p>The tunnel beyond the bridge is narrow yet well-lit and you have no difficulty following your prey. Stealthily and speedily you close upon him like a lion running to ground a frightened fawn. He glances over his shoulder repeatedly as you draw nearer, then, in desperation, he skids to a halt beneath one of the many hanging bowls which illuminate this passageway. He raises both hands as if surrendering, but as you approach him he grasps the underside of the heavy bowl and heaves it at you. Suddenly, with a sizzling rush, a gallon of blazing coal oil spills over the stone rim and comes gushing down towards your unprotected face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without a sound you raise your weapon and tense yourself in readiness to strike. The Vazhag and the Cener are unaware of your presence and, as they move to enter the south tunnel, they turn their backs on where you are hiding. It is a fatal mistake, for in this instance you launch your attack.</p>
- <p>Like a tiger hungry for prey, swiftly and silently you bound into the cavern and strike down the two nearest rat-men with one scything blow. A mighty kick sends a third Vazhag crashing head-first into the cavern wall, and a back-handed slash puts paid to a fourth of their number, neatly parting its disease-riddled head from its shoulders. Shocked and confused, the remaining Vazhag fumble ineptly with their weapons whilst the Cener screams frantically at them to avenge their slain comrades. With ease you duck a whistling sword stroke, then dispatch the beast with a lightning-fast stab to its heart. Your strike is executed with such economy of movement that, to the druid and the remaining Vazhag, it looks as if you hardly moved at all. For the Vazhag it is the last straw and, with a squeal of terror, it drops its torch and rusty blade and scurries for the dark safety of the south tunnel.</p>
- <p>Cursing vilely, the Cener retreats until his red-robed back is pressed flat against the cavern wall. His mask hides his entire face, yet even so you can sense the blazing hatred that is pouring from his eyes, as if it were a stream of liquid fire. You raise your weapon and advance, eager to finish the druid swiftly, but you are halted by a sudden, unexpected pulse of psychic energy that crashes like a wave against your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have entered a chamber constructed entirely of black marble and illuminated by artificial light. A dozen spheres of white flame hang motionless in mid-air near the ceiling, each positioned directly above an operating table bearing the corpse of a Slovian soldier. You are shocked to see that their skulls are open and empty. The brains float in glass tanks standing at the head of each table, yet still connected to their respective bodies by coils of thin copper wire.</p>
- <p>Two Cenerese initiates are attending to the corpses. Their hands are sheathed in transparent gloves and they are clad in close-fitting papery suits. Startled by your dramatic entrance, they abandon their grisly work and seek the protection of their mentor, a druid who wears the hooded purple cloak of a Cenerese High Priest. He faces you across this hellish chamber, his lips drawn back in a silent, gasping snarl as he fumbles for a golden rod which is tucked into his belt.</p>
- <p><quote>Kill him!</quote> he commands, and he pushes his terrified students towards you. Hesitantly they draw their daggers and, being far more frightened of their tutor than of you, they advance. With swift and deadly precision you dispatch the two initiates and stride towards the priest, your weapon poised to deal a third fatal blow. The Cener spits a curse and instantly a sparking web of energy appears, writhing around the golden rod which he is now holding in his hand. Another curse, and the web becomes a lance of crackling power that comes surging towards your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creepers coil around your limbs and neck in an attempt to crush the life from your body, but you resist this attack just long enough to raise your weapon and strike back. Your first blow tears away a great swath of the writhing vines and, unexpectedly, you see a fountain of ichor erupt from every severed end. Then the realization hits you that you are fighting a creature&emdash;not a plant!</p>
- <p>From somewhere above the canopy of branches you hear an unearthly roar of pain. Once more the remaining tendrils seek you out; this time they are no longer soft and fibrous, but stiff and studded with barbed thorns. The swirling mass strikes out for your throat. Desperately you hack at them with devastating effect, yet one of the limbs avoids your blows and wraps itself tightly about your neck. Pain fills your head and chest as its razor-sharp thorns bite deeply into your flesh and release a powerful acid.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Stragnah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the surprise of its attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 points for the first two rounds of this combat. This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you unshoulder your pack and remove the Cener Robe and Mask. The garment and the mask still bear the vile smell of the creature that once owned them, making you hesitate before puffing them on, but you are determined to enter Mogaruith undetected and, by wearing this Cenerese outfit, you hope to achieve that aim.</p>
- <p>Once you have donned your disguise, you crawl to a clump of dense foliage at the edge of the forest and wait patiently for your opportunity to act. Eventually your patience is rewarded when you spy two Vazhag approaching Mogaruith from the Skardos Trail. They are leading on a chain what appears at first glance to be a man, although this impression is soon dispelled when they draw closer to your hiding place.</p>
- <p>Trailing behind the Vazhag is a creature with no free will of its own, a being that was once human but is now consigned to the twilight world of the undead. The sight of this stiff-limbed zombie, propelling itself forward on withered grey limbs, fills you with revulsion and pity. With difficulty you suppress your anger at the creatures who have caused this transformation and, as the Vazhag draw level, you emerge from the foliage and order them to stop. At once the rat-men obey, deceived by your disguise and your command of the Cenerese dialect. Nervously their red eyes regard you and they shuffle uneasily as they wait for your next command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you wish to ask them what they are doing, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you wish to order them to accompany you into Mogaruith, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sharp pain runs up your left leg and, with fearful expectation, you glance down to see that a Vazhag arrow has gouged your thigh: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You draw upon your healing skills to numb the stinging pain and, as it fades, you continue your ascent towards the winch with increased determination.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a blinding flash followed by a terrible pain which fills your head. Then the pain subsides and you feel as if you are falling forwards into a dark, bottomless pit. The end of the heavy chain has lashed out and struck your skull, fracturing it badly. As you are plunged into unconsciousness, you lose your footing and fall to your doom in the hall below.</p>
- <p>Your brave action causes the cauldron to tip its contents into the hall, thereby destroying the plague virus and the druids who know the secrets of its cultivation. This destruction has saved millions from a terrible death, and your courage in bringing this about will never be forgotten by the free peoples of Magnamund. Sadly, though, death is the price you must pay for your victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here in the plague hall of Mogaruith.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You catch sight of something huge and grey, moving just below the surface of the foaming water. For a moment it disappears, then, with a mighty splash, a great scaly head emerges with two cold reptilian eyes that flare like yellow flames. It soars up from the icy depths of the lake, perched atop a neck as stout and as long as a toa tree.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A great scaly head emerges with two cold reptilian eyes that flare like pits of yellow flame.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="657"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="657"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>One-handedly you struggle to unsheathe your weapon as the feral-eyed beast hovers above you, its open mouth set with jagged, jet-black fangs. Hungrily it watches you and a rumble issues from its gullet as it steadies itself to strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dholdaarg</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">56</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Owing to your precarious position you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 points for the duration of this fight. If the weapon you are using is a Broadsword, a Spear, or a Quarterstaff, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by a further 3 points. This creature is immune to Mindblast (but not to Psi-surge or Kai-surge).</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">You may evade combat after 6 rounds by <link-text>turning to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hideous Degradon roars in agony as your killing blow seals its fate. It crashes forward and you leap aside just in time to avoid being pinned beneath its loathsome carcass. Breathless and shaking with the fatigue of combat, you lean against the wall and survey your surroundings.</p>
- <p>Before you stretches a cavernous hall, lit by the glow from fire-filled orbs hanging by chains from the ceiling. Facing each other are two rows of stone statues which form a grotesque corridor leading to an archway on the far side. Although they are human in shape, extreme expressions of pain and despair twist and contort their faces.</p>
- <p>You advance cautiously. You are wary of the statues and your body is tensed to react should they show the slightest hint of animation. Fortunately your caution is unnecessary and you are able to reach the archway and leave the hall without further incident. A short passageway leads to a junction where a wider corridor crosses from left to right. Your skin prickles in reaction to the concentration of evil you detect in this subterranean part of Mogaruith, and silently you call upon your creator, the noble god Kai, for protection and guidance, before continuing.</p>
- <p>Instinct prompts you to turn left, and within a few minutes you arrive at a chamber where a vast staircase of black marble ascends to many levels, lost in the gloom above. Opposite this grand staircase stands a large door, carved from a solid sheet of strange green metal, the like of which you have never seen before. It gives off a pulsating radiance which washes over the empty chamber, illuminating symbols carved into the walls and floor. You focus on these symbols and, in a chilling moment of realization, you decipher their meaning.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step over the bodies of your attackers and stoop to retrieve your Bow. As you are rising, you notice a tiny box-like device hanging from a chain around the Pit Agarashi's neck. At once your natural sixth sense informs you that this device is magical. It controlled the creature's instincts, enslaving it to the commands of the weaker Vazhag.</p>
- <p>If you wish to take this Restrainer, record it as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Anxious to leave, you lift the furs which cover the divan and see, protruding from the side, a small lever identical to the one that opened the secret door. You pull it and the door clicks open, enabling you to escape by the way you entered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The psychic protection afforded you by your Magnakai Disciplines buckles under the Cener's concentrated assault. You feel an unbearable pressure behind your eyes, then a white-hot core of pain erupts inside your head and you are sent reeling to the ground in agony: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As gradually the pain fades, you hear the Cener's harsh voice barking an order to his Vazhag escort. You have been detected!</p>
- <choice idref="sect159"><link-text>Turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flames explode upon your chest and fan out to engulf your entire body. You call upon the protection of your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to save you, but it cannot overcome the incredible temperature of this magical fire: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Within a few seconds the flames have gone, leaving you singed and smouldering but (to the angry frustration of your attacker) still alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The symbols form concentric circles which spell out a grim message:</p>
- <p><quote>Humble thyself for thou art worthless like the dust before He who dwells herein. Pay homage to the emissary of the Lords of Decay for He is the instrument of their intention. Abase thyself afore His power. Hail, mighty Cadak of Mogaruith!</quote></p>
- <p>Fear and uncertainty knot your stomach as you stand and stare at the door to Arch Druid Cadak's throne hall. Your senses scream at you to turn and run from this place for the air is so heavy with evil that you feel as if you are being slowly suffocated to death. But on this occasion you resist your instincts, for you have yet to discover where the Cenerese are cultivating their deadly plague virus and you know that the answer to that question can most likely be found here.</p>
- <p>With fear running cold in your veins, you steel yourself and step towards the glowing door. As you come within a few feet of its pulsating surface, a band of intense light washes over you from head to toe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you possess the Grand Mastery of Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you do not possess mastery of this skill, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a chilling howl, the spectral creature swoops down to exploit its advantage, but you are too quick for it. You roll across the rock-strewn floor and lash out as it passes overhead, and feel a cold shock run up your arm as your weapon passes clean through its fiery, ghost-like body. The creature howls again, this time with pain. Heartened by the realization that it is vulnerable to your attack, you rise to your feet and prepare for combat as it comes swooping down to attack once more.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Pechdrazil</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">26</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is especially susceptible to high-level psychic attacks. If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 10 points (instead of 8) for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Tzarg croaks excitedly when it discovers where you are. Cursing the creature, you abandon your hiding place and step into the light, your weapon drawn in readiness for combat.</p>
- <p>The instant the Vazhag see you they squeal with delight and fan out in an attempt to surround you. Freed from its cruel handlers, the Tzarg waddles away into the passage as quickly as it can to avoid the fight which is about to commence.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag patrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat. The Vazhag attack simultaneously and you must fight them as one enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle to extricate yourself from the bodies of the Vazhag you have slain. As you rise to the summit of this grisly heap, you glimpse the Cener Druid scurrying towards the gap in the trees by which he, and his late minions, entered the clearing. He must not be allowed to escape!</p>
- <p>Carefully you take up your Bow and aim at this enemy for a second time, determined to stop him in his tracks. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Weaponmastery (with Bow), add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total score is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect250">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A Cener Robe and Mask would provide you with a useful disguise as you explore the chambers of Mogaruith, a disguise that would undoubtedly raise your chances of success. With this in mind you take and put on what you need from the pegs.</p>
- <p>Remember to record your choice on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Cener Robe takes up two spaces in your Backpack; a Cener Mask takes one space. If you already carry the maximum number of Backpack items allowed, you must discard one item(s) in favour of the Mask and/or Robe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">To continue, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last Acolyte drops lifelessly to the platform, you sheathe your weapon and take hold of the ladder which ascends to the winch. All eyes in the hall below are watching your ascent and, when they suddenly realize what it is you are trying to do, pandemonium breaks out. Hysterical screams of anger and fear merge into a dreadful cacophony which fills the hall with clamouring echoes. You glance down at their faces, contorted by rage, and as you do so you glimpse a new threat to your safety.</p>
- <p>A handful of Vazhag archers are scurrying from out of the portal which connects Cadak's chamber to the gallery. They spread out along the parapet and begin firing at you with their lacquered bows. Black-fletched arrows whistle past on either side, their barbed heads passing dangerously close to your legs and feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 4 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If your total score is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow this illuminated tunnel with your nerves on edge, your every sense stretched to breaking point to detect anything that could forewarn you of an ambush or a trap. You follow it for almost a mile, and it is not until you reach a junction where the tunnel branches off in two directions, north and south, that your vigilance and skill are finally rewarded.</p>
- <p>To the north you detect the greasy smell of Vazhag hide, and another aroma that reminds you of boiled offal. To the south you detect a completely different stench, a sickly gangrenous smell, rank and fetid, its origin unknown.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you wish to investigate the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you choose to follow the south tunnel, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You breathe the words of the Brotherhood spell <quote>Lightning Hand</quote> and point towards the iron pin. A core of heat wells up in your chest and then surges along your outstretched arm to manifest itself at the tip of your index finger as a crackling ball of magical fire. This fire arcs towards the pin and explodes on impact amid a shower of hissing sparks. As these sparks fade you see faint cracks appearing in the surface of the flame-scorched pin.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 25 or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 15 or lower, deduct 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The secret door clicks shut behind you and you find yourself back in the vast, lava-lit cavern once more. Unseen, you advance towards the iron portal and wait close by, camouflaged from detection by your cloak of Kai skills, as patiently you observe the doorway and its guards.</p>
- <p>After several minutes, the resonant boom of a metal gong echoes in some deep and distant part of the caves. As the echo slowly fades, another sound, that of metal scraping on stone, resounds around the cavern. Then a crack of light appears along the bottom of the portal and, with a grating screech, the great wall of black iron slowly rises up into the ceiling.</p>
- <p>Through the opening comes a patrol of Vazhag who are escorting a wagon stacked high with wooden boxes, barrels and sacks. A sudden rush of female Vazhag, all squealing and clamouring for food, brings the wagon to a halt directly beneath the onion-shaped portico. The escort struggles to fend off the hungry females with little effect until, with a spine-tingling screech, the portal begins to descend. A wave of panic washes over the Vazhag and they turn and run back into the cavern, fearful of being crushed beneath the falling iron door.</p>
- <p>When it is just a few feet from the wagon, the portal shudders and grinds to a halt. Those few guards and Vazhag escort who remained nearby quickly rush forward to drag the wagon from beneath the portal. You notice that the females are beginning to return and you know that you must act now if you are to escape from the cavern before the wagon is pulled clear and the iron door closes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to help you escape, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to use your Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A little after midnight, you and Captain Cearmaine ride out of Stonewatch on the backs of two swift Slovarian steeds. It is another moonless night and the plain is shrouded by darkness, yet you have no difficulty in seeing the terrain that lies ahead. Using your natural Magnakai skill of Huntmastery, every flowing contour of the grasslands south of Stonewatch is revealed to your eagle eyes. The Captain is not so gifted; however, the special spectacles he wears fully compensate for his lack of night vision. They were a token of gratitude from the Arch-Chief of Chaman for his services in defence of the city of Gleesh during the war against the Darklords, and they have often been of use to him when scouting his country's border with Ruel.</p>
- <p>It takes an hour to reach the foothills of the Skardos Mountains. Here, the fertile grasslands of Palmyrion give way to a hilly, weed-choked terrain which is broken by deep canyons and sharp, frowning cliffs. In the pitch blackness your eyes pick out a trail that loops down the rugged slopes towards a deep canyon floor. The Captain takes the lead and you follow closely as he descends towards the mouth of a narrow gorge, situated at the far end of the canyon. Within this gorge, the trail writhes and twists like the track of a serpent as it cuts its way between two towering walls of solid rock. Strange animal-like sounds issue from hollows in the rock high above, and you feel a chill of premonition as you ride deeper into this unwelcoming gorge.</p>
- <p>At length, the trail widens, then divides in two. The Captain veers left and, within a few minutes, you espy a fissure in the rock wall ahead. Silently you dismount and approach the opening with caution.</p>
- <p><quote>Yonder passage leads to the Skardos Trail,</quote> whispers Captain Cearmaine. <quote>It is a sure route to Mogaruith, but one that is perilous in the extreme. More than a dozen of my bravest scouts have ventured here, alas, never to return. You would not be thought fainthearted were you to forego entry and ride back with me to Stonewatch.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I will return to your fortress, Captain,</quote> you reply, your voice quietly resolute, <quote>but not until my task at Mogaruith has been completed.</quote></p>
- <p>The Captain smiles and raises his steely hand in a salute to your brave determination. <quote>Very well, my lord. So be it. Until that glad day dawns I shall pray for your safety and success.</quote></p>
- <p>Then he brings his horse about, takes yours by the reins, and bids you a final farewell before turning back to Stonewatch. <quote>May the gods watch over you and deliver us swiftly from the darkness of Mogaruith.</quote></p>
- <p>You return his salute and watch as he rides along the gorge with your steed in tow. The moment he passes out of sight you turn around and steel yourself to enter the gloomy fissure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature is totally unprepared for your attack. You strike out and hit the back of its head, killing it instantly, the force of the blow lifting it clean out of its hollowed stool. It crashes to the floor where it wobbles back and forth grotesquely, like a giant fleshy egg, before coming to rest on its side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>No matter what you say or do, the lid of the box refuses to open. In one last effort you use your Kai skills in an attempt to overcome the magical spell which keeps this container secure, but the radiating evil of the surrounding books saps your strength and you are soon forced to abandon the attempt.</p>
- <p>As you discard the box you hear a shuffling noise. It is coming from somewhere in another part of the library and it makes you freeze. Someone else has entered the archives. You look over your shoulder at the door and decide that now would be a very wise time to leave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you swim towards a pair of large boulders that rest half-buried in the muddy shallows of the north bank. Here you break through the waist-deep water behind the nearest rock and press yourself against its cool, smooth surface as you fight to catch your breath. Blinking the water from your eyes, you look across the lake to see the Vazhag scouring the south shore. They search beneath the bridge, passing within a few paces of where you were hanging only minutes before. Disappointedly, they report their lack of findings to their Cenerese commander before clambering back on to the platform.</p>
- <p>The Cener and the remaining Vazhag cross the bridge. They stop just long enough to open the Tzarg cage and drag out one of the croaking creatures. Then the cage door is slammed shut, locked, and briskly the party march away along the south passage.</p>
- <p>For a full minute you remain immobile until you are sure that the enemy have gone. Then you pull yourself up on to the bridge and, without looking back, you enter the north tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306"><link-text>Turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a sudden rush, the leading five Vazhag fall upon you, hacking and stabbing with rust-dulled weapons. Expertly you feint and parry their attacks, then answer their assault with such mind-numbing speed and accuracy that it is as if all five have been dispatched with one solitary blow. Their sudden deaths cool their comrades' courage and, as the horde retreat nervously, you seize your chance and escape through the portal.</p>
- <p>A few yards along the passage you happen upon a lever protruding from a grating in the floor. Instinct prompts you to pull it, and at once the great iron door descends to crush the wagon and seal off the lava-lit cavern. Safe now from the wrath of the rat-men, you explore this new tunnel in the hope of finding your way back to the surface.</p>
- <p>The passage continues eastwards for several miles and, with the exception of an occasional Vazhag sentry, it is virtually deserted. At length you arrive at the entrance to another hall, smaller than the lava-cavern but equally as crowded. Daylight streams into this hall through a large archway guarded by armoured Vazhag, and pairs of horny-skinned war-dogs which they hold on the leash. Beyond the archway you can see a track which disappears towards a distant ridge of hills.</p>
- <p>Directly above the archway, a thin ray of sunlight comes streaming through a window-like hole in the rock. Sorely aware that the main entrance is so heavily guarded that it will be very difficult, even for someone as gifted as yourself, to escape that way undetected, you resolve instead to escape by means of the smaller opening in the rock wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature looks you up and down. Then, with a suspicious tone, it asks:</p>
- <p><quote>Who is High Priest of your chapter?</quote></p>
- <p>You hesitate, unable to answer, and in that instant you see the creature's eye widen with fear. Then you notice its bony hand is gliding slowly towards a button which protrudes from the side of its desk. It is an alarm button.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess a Bow and are able to use it, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you do not possess a Bow, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You force your way through the narrow, thorny corridor but it soon comes to an abrupt end. The Vazhag are now streaming into the gap, close on your heels; in seconds they will be upon you.</p>
- <p>Then you see them. With a foul, snickering cry the Vazhag swarm comes leaping towards you, three abreast. You steady yourself, then raise your weapon in readiness to meet their attack. The leading rat-men throw themselves upon you in a blood-crazed frenzy, hacking and stabbing with their rusty blades, yet you dispatch them in seconds with such precision and economy of movement that it would appear to an onlooker that you had hardly moved at all.</p>
- <p>But for every Vazhag that falls, three more take its place, and within minutes you are in danger of being suffocated to death by the press of their loathsome bodies.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vazhag pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sidestep to avoid the oncoming pulse of energy, but it twists in mid-air and catches you in the right shoulder. Pain lances across your chest and you are sent reeling backwards by the force of the impact: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you have survived this wounding, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow skewers the druid's wicked heart. He takes a few faltering steps, then he raises his arms and vents his death-cry before collapsing into the saw-toothed briar.</p>
- <p>You run to where he has fallen and curiosity prompts you to prise away his green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity. Reluctantly you search him and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing upon all of your Kai skills for aid and protection, you raise the hood of your cloak and emerge from your hiding place. The columns of armoured rat-men seem to pay little attention to you as you march boldly along the trail towards their mighty stronghold. Your skills of camouflage are working well; you can only pray that they will sustain you when you reach the archway itself.</p>
- <p>Walking across the age-blackened drawbridge towards the spiky arched tower of Mogaruith is an unnerving experience. It is as if you are walking along a blackened tongue towards the gaping maw of some gigantic dragon. On either side the bubbling moat releases foul fumes which fill your nostrils with a terrible sugary stench that clogs your lungs and blurs your vision. You draw upon your skills and your vision clears, but the sight which lies ahead looks no more inviting than it did before.</p>
- <p>At the tower you are challenged by a troop of Vazhag guards who regard you with suspicion and demand to know your purpose here. They will not let you pass until you answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to tell them that you are one of Arch Druid Cadak's agents and that you have vital information for his ears only, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you have the Discipline of Animal Mastery and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you tiptoe around the divan, taking care not to make any noise that could wake the recumbent Vazhag. A search of the various items confirms your first impression: this is nothing more than a hoard of junk. From the hundreds of pieces you manage to sift the following few which could be of some use to you during your quest:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>16 Lune (equivalent to 4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- <li>Pouch of Tobacco</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Copper Bowl</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Now, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance and Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If your total score is 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The demonic Exterminus screams in agony as your killing blow pierces its heart. It sways for a moment, defying gravity, then reels backwards and crashes down upon the table which stands beside Cadak's black chair. The awesome bulk of the creature's body crushes the table to matchwood and breaks open the crystal sphere that rested upon it. Immediately there is a loud boom and a tremendous rush of putrid air knocks you down. A funnel of darkness engulfs the body of Exterminus and, with stunning suddenness, there is silence. Both the creature and the shattered remnants of the sphere have vanished completely.</p>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and turn to face the Arch Druid. The shock of what he has witnessed has left him open-mouthed and drained of colour. He is mumbling incoherently and trembling with fear. You take up your weapon and advance towards him, determined to rid Magnamund of this vile druid once and for all, but the sight of you drawing closer snaps him out of his trauma and galvanizes him into action. He weaves his hands before his face and, in an instant, he is shrouded in a cocoon of light. You strike out at the light but your weapon passes clean through it, meeting with no resistance. Then the light fades and you are left standing alone in the druid's empty throne room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259"><link-text>Turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you roll, your Backpack hits the falling edge of the portcullis and jams. In the next moment you are crushed to death by twenty-five tons of oak and iron. Death is mercifully swift.</p>
- <p>The incredible bravery you have displayed during your quest has brought about the destruction of the plague virus, and the druids who knew the secrets of its cultivation. This destruction has saved millions from a terrible death, and the selfless courage you have shown in bringing this about will never be forgotten by the free peoples of Magnamund. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for your victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here at the entrance to Mogaruith.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the sun-sword and point the tip of its golden blade at the red-robed druid. From his rod leaps a second charge, a lance of crackling fire that spirals through the hole in the wall and fixes itself to the Sommerswerd like a ravenous vampire let loose upon a maiden's throat. Instantly there is a sizzling splash of blue-white sparks and flashing webs of electrical power run back and forth along your arm. Yet you experience no pain; the dark power of the druid's rod is no match for the goodly might of the Sommerswerd.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="72"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="72"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Slowly and deliberately you draw back your sword then cast away its unwelcome sheath of fire. The ball of crackling fire arcs across the clearing and scythes through a pair of trees with a splintering roar. The severed trunks teeter for a moment, then come crashing to the ground, narrowly missing the Cener. The druid screams in fury and frustration. He curses you, then he shouts at his Vazhag minions, commanding them to attack and rip you to shreds.</p>
- <p>With hatred blazing in their blood-red eyes, the Vazhag advance towards the ruins, each with a rusty weapon poised for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you wish to stand and fight these disease-ridden Vazhag, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you decide to attempt to evade them, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Blood-spattered and drenched with sweat, you stagger away from the bodies of the slain hounds. It takes you a few moments to recover fully but, once you have, you set about a systematic search of the drawers of the desk. You find many scrolls and ledgers which you scrutinize for clues as to where in Mogaruith the virus is being cultivated. Unfortunately the papers yield no useful information, but your search is not entirely fruitless. Beneath the ink pot you find two small levers recessed into the desk's surface.</p>
- <p>As you examine them your Kai senses reveal that they operate the two metal doors to this antechamber. You flip the right-hand lever and the door by which you entered glides shut. Then you pause for a moment to prepare yourself before flipping the left lever, for you know that this will open the door which leads to Cadak's throne room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flaming oil hits you like a fiery shower full in the face yet, protected by your Grand Mastery of Nexus, you suffer no harm. The Cener freezes with shock and gurgles inanely as, unhurriedly, you wipe the blazing oil from your face with the edge of your hand and pat out the tongues of flames which have sprung from parts of your tunic splashed by the oil.</p>
- <p>Numbly the Cener fumbles for a weapon. He draws a curvy-bladed knife from a hidden sheath and holds it out unsteadily in front of his chest. You tell him to drop the dagger but he is deaf to your command. He lunges, you deflect his weak attack with your right forearm and counter it with a left hook to the chin which shatters the druid's glassy mask. He reels backwards and crashes to the floor, his bony fingers clutching his throat. For a moment he writhes around on the dusty ground, then his body stiffens and he lies completely still. Cautiously you step nearer, expecting trickery. Then you see that a shattered fragment of his mask has severed his jugular vein and thus sealed his fate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to search the druid's body, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect325-1-foot" idref="sect325-1">
- <p>You must defeat the Plague Hound before turning to <a idref="sect114">Section 114</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a moment of horror when first you glimpse the hideous creature which emerges from the portal. It is a gigantic hound with mad red eyes that burn into your mind with a furnace-like intensity. It sees you and howls ferociously, baring yellow fangs dripping with foam.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You glimpse a gigantic hound with mad red eyes emerging from the portal.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="635"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="635"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Aghast, you raise your weapon to meet its assault. Then, mere moments before it strikes, you glimpse the outline of an armoured warrior standing in the open doorway. He is shouting at the beast, commanding it to rip you to shreds.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Plague Hound</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is attacking you simultaneously with a powerful psychic blast. Unless you possess the Grand Mastery of Kai-screen, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you win the combat in 4 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If the combat lasts 5 rounds or longer, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.<a id="sect325-1" idref="sect325-1-foot" class="footnote" /></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you recall the words of the Brotherhood spell <quote>Invisible Shield</quote>, and cast it by circling your right palm around your lower body as you breathe the words of the incantation. A few seconds later, a pair of Vazhag arrows come screaming towards your legs and rebound from your magical shield with a sizzling splash of sparks.</p>
- <p>Saved by your mastery of Brotherhood magic, you are able to reach the gap unharmed and make your escape. You emerge on a mountainside, at a place hidden beneath an outcrop, which is ringed by wind-worn boulders and scrub. Early morning sunlight illuminates the surrounding hills, and beyond them you see a vast expanse of forest, a sea of sickly grey-green trees, which radiates an unmistakable aura of evil. The position of the sun and your Pathsmanship skills inform you that you are now looking upon the Forest of Ruel from the eastern foothills of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <p>The land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being a wide dirt track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the grim forest. You consult your <a idref="map">map</a> and conclude that this must be the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners, which leads all the way to Mogaruith itself. You resolve to follow the trail, but first you hurry away from the ledge lest the Vazhag, and their monstrous war-dogs, decide to give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you sever the last of the flailing tendrils, the roaring above is replaced by a deathly silence. For a moment you remain where you stand, gasping for breath, the blood pounding in your ears. Your Kai tunic is soaked with the ichor of your unseen attacker and its rising stench is making it difficult to draw breath. Then you hear the sound of snapping branches and quickly you move aside as the body of the beast comes crashing down to earth.</p>
- <p>With weapon poised you approach the huge shape. It resembles a bear, but covered in leaves rather than fur, and it possesses a bulbous head with four hooded orange eyes. Its bloated black and yellow striped body is a mass of severed stumps, and from the back of its neck there protrudes a clump of spines, like those of a porcupine, but these ooze a sticky black venom.</p>
- <p>The sight and smell of this unnatural creature makes you linger no longer than necessary once your curiosity has been satisfied. Quickly you sheathe your weapon and press on towards the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your efforts have cracked the pin but it is still intact and supporting the cauldron. You have no option now but to use a hand weapon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81"><link-text>Turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In desperation, you muster your Magnakai skills and try to neutralize the terrible effects of the acid. At once the searing pain abates, but your skills are insufficient to rectify the damage you have already sustained: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Cursing your luck you hurry along the tunnel, away from this deadly shower. You reach the distant staircase and stop to cut away the parts of your cloak and tunic that have been eaten by the acid. To your dismay you find that your scalp and your tunic are not the only things to have been damaged. There is a smouldering hole in the top of your Backpack and, when you check the contents, you discover that two items have been corroded beyond repair. (Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those items which you have noted first and third on your list of Backpack Items.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">To continue, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the basic skills that Guildmaster Banedon taught you was how to mix together seemingly harmless materials in order to create explosive energy. With that lesson in mind you search your Backpack and pockets and, eventually, you manage to pull together small quantities of sulphur, charcoal and loamsalt.</p>
- <p>Carefully you mix them together before packing them in a strip of cloth and wedging it tightly into the keyhole. You leave a few strands of the cloth trailing from the hole and, with the help of a wall torch, you set them alight.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you move away from the door. You have taken only a few paces when suddenly there is a sharp bang and a jet of orange flame shoots from the keyhole.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vazhag are totally unaware of your presence as you slip through the milling throng and escape into the empty passage which lies beyond the iron portal. A few minutes later, as you are exploring this new tunnel, you hear their anxious squealing cease and the great door close with a rumbling boom.</p>
- <p>The passage continues eastwards for several miles and, with the exception of an occasional Vazhag sentry, it is virtually deserted. At length you arrive at the entrance to another hall, smaller than the lava-cavern but equally as crowded. Daylight streams into this hall through a large archway guarded by armoured Vazhag, and pairs of horny-skinned war-dogs which they hold on the leash. Beyond the archway you can see a track that disappears towards a distant ridge of hills.</p>
- <p>Directly above the archway, you notice a thin ray of sunlight streaming through a window-like hole in the rock. Sorely aware that the main entrance is so heavily guarded that it will be very difficult, even for someone as gifted as yourself, to escape that way undetected, you resolve instead to escape by means of the smaller opening in the rock wall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your familiarity with the tunnel enables you to retrace your steps all the way back to the fissure in less than twenty minutes. However, all this walking has made you hungry and (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">To continue, you can explore the east tunnel by <link-text>turning to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the far side of the door awaits a series of narrow passages which eventually end at a large antechamber. This domed chamber is decorated with tapestries which depict Cenerese legends, ignoble and infamous deeds that were perpetrated during the Age of the Old Kingdoms, when, for nearly a thousand years, the Cenerese tyrannized Northern Magnamund.</p>
- <p>A single heavy oaken door in the opposite wall offers the only exit from the antechamber. As you approach it, you notice that it is slightly ajar. Suddenly you hear the doleful sound of chanting emanating from beyond this door. Curiosity prompts you to peer through its narrow opening and, as you do so, a chill runs the length of your spine when you see what lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You open your mouth and form your lips into an <quote>O</quote> shape in readiness to utter the power word battle-spell you have learned from Lord Rimoah. Then, the instant the spell-thoughts focus in your mind, you project the power word&emdash;Gloar!&emdash;at the middle of the fleeing druid's back. Like a hammer, the sound hits him between the shoulder blades and sends him tumbling head over heels into a tangle of thorny briars.</p>
- <p>Stunned and groaning, the Cener fumbles for his slender golden rod. His spindly fingers locate it, but before he can use it to retaliate, you sprint across the clearing, weapon in hand, and slay him with a single blow to the head. Curiosity prompts you to prise away the druid's green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you search him and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry out of the library and follow a series of corridors which end at a large antechamber. This domed hall is decorated with tapestries which depict Cenerese legends, ignoble and infamous deeds that were perpetrated during the Age of the Old Kingdoms, when, for nearly a thousand years, the Cenerese tyrannized Northern Magnamund.</p>
- <p>A single heavy oaken door in the opposite wall offers the only exit from the antechamber. As you approach it you notice that it is slightly ajar. Suddenly you hear the doleful sound of chanting emanating from beyond this door. Curiosity coaxes you nearer. You approach and peer through its narrow opening, and a chill runs the length of your spine when you see what lies beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stretching upwards, you grasp a spur of rock and begin your ascent towards the tiny patch of daylight, fifty feet above the pit. The rock walls are caked with fine dirt which has settled into the cracks over the years, and all too readily it crumbles beneath your fingers, forcing you to test every handhold carefully before trusting it with your weight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calling upon your powers of Telegnosis, you slip easily into the trance-like state which is necessary in order for you to effect complete transcendency. At once you see yourself in spirit form, rising out of your physical body and floating effortlessly along the tunnel beyond.</p>
- <p>As you drift towards the shimmering lights, you see that the tunnel opens out into a huge cave. The shimmering is caused by a line of glowing beacons hung by chains from the vault-like ceiling of the cave. Their warm amber light is reflecting upon the cold dark waters of a lake. At first there appears to be no way for you to cross the lake in physical form, but, as you draw nearer to the tunnel's end you see a spur of rock and a raised drawbridge on the opposite side. On the near side, close to a platform upon which the bridge rests when lowered, there stands a large iron cage filled with giant frog-like creatures. You sense that they are the Tzargs that Lord Rimoah spoke of, the scouts bred by the Ceners to guide them through the swamps of Caron. A pair of Vazhag are teasing and taunting the Tzargs with sharpened sticks, jabbing them through the criss-crossed bars of their rusty cage.</p>
- <p>After a while the rat-men tire of their spiteful game. Casually they cast their sticks into the lake and then settle themselves down upon the muddy shore. The larger of the two produces a haunch of maggoty meat from a haversack slung over its shoulder, and eagerly the two of them proceed to devour this vile food. Both are seemingly oblivious to the hungry cries of the caged Tzargs.</p>
- <p>You sense that it is time you rejoined your physical body and so you will yourself back to where it stands in the tunnel, entranced and unmoving. The moment that your two beings are reunited, you are able to wake from your trance feeling refreshed, as if you have just awoken after a few hours' sleep. Yet, unlike a dream, the memory of all you saw during your spirit-walk is still fresh in your mind.</p>
- <p>Aware now of what lies ahead, you advance to the end of the tunnel and take up a position at the entrance to the cave, from where you observe the two Vazhag consuming their unwholesome meal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41"><link-text>Turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are sorely aware that time is running out. It can not be long before either Cadak returns to his chamber or the Cenerese discover that they have an intruder in their midst. With this thought in mind you set about searching the throne room for clues that could reveal the whereabouts of the lethal plague virus you have come to destroy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you wish to examine the glass sphere, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you choose to investigate the large tapestry, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you wish to take a closer look at the golden statuette, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your Kai power to repel the creature, to force it away by the strength of your will alone, and instantly it responds as if you had run it through with a red hot sword. The creature retreats towards the depths of its slimy pool, but its barbs are snagged in your tunic and, as it slinks away, you are drawn deeper into the mire. If you are to survive this encounter you must cut yourself free.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Plaghatar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks. If the weapon you are using is non-edged (i.e. a Mace, a Quarterstaff, or a Warhammer), deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you land your killing blow, the druid crashes down upon the floor, driving his magical blade deep into the flagstones. For a moment he writhes in the throes of death, then he stiffens and lies still.</p>
- <p>As you step away from his body you suddenly sense a new danger. A number of the congregation are approaching the door, prompted to investigate by the noise of your fight. Quickly you hurry to the section of wall from where the druid appeared and search for a way to make it open once more. You discover a lever and, within seconds of pulling it, the concealed panel glides inwards, allowing you access to a secret passage. You enter, dragging the body of the High Priest behind you by the heels, then push shut the panel just as the inquisitive congregation push open the vestibule door.</p>
- <p>You abandon the body and pass along the narrow passageway, descending by steps and slopes until you reach a chamber which is lit by two large black candles, fixed into holes in the surface of a marble slab. On a nearby table lie the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>2 Arrows</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>2 Daggers</li>
- <li>1 Sword</li>
- <li>Mirror</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to take any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Opposite the slab there is a door which opens into a narrow corridor. You step through and follow this corridor towards a distant chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158"><link-text>Turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect341-1-foot" idref="sect341-1">
- <p>According to <cite><a href="&link.05sots;">Shadow on the Sand</a></cite> Section 2, one dose of the Oede herb can heal 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of damage.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect341-2-foot" idref="sect341-2">
- <p>Since you <quote>take down half a dozen jars</quote> and there are exactly six types of herbs in the list, it may safely be assumed that one jar contains all of a given herb or potion. (e.g. one jar contains all five doses of Laumspur) If each jar is one Backpack Item, then the Cener have created some <em>extremely</em> concentrated potions which take up very little space.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unfurl the map and try to find your present location. At length you discover where you are and, marked by a tiny cipher, you see that there is a hidden lever which activates the wall. You examine the surrounding bricks carefully and soon discover the false panel which contains the lever. You pull it and the wall glides inwards before moving away to your right. It reveals a small well-kept chamber, its walls lined with shelves containing hundreds of stoppered jars, each one neatly labelled.</p>
- <p>The jars contain all manner of compounds and elements, from worthless dirt to precious gold dust, and many herbs besides. You search along the shelves and take down half a dozen jars whose contents you recognize:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Laumspur (Enough for 5 doses) Restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed after combat.</li>
- <li>Alether (Enough for 4 doses) Increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for duration of one fight only.</li>
- <li>Gallowbrush (Enough for 2 doses) Induces 10 hours' sleep and loss of 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points per dose.</li>
- <li>Sabito (Enough for 2 doses) Enables user to breathe underwater.</li>
- <li>Laumwort (Enough for 3 doses) Restores 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points if swallowed before or after combat.</li>
- <li>Oede (Enough for 1 dose) Very rare and valuable. Many healing properties. Cures serious diseases.<a id="sect341-1" idref="sect341-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep one or more of the above jars, remember to record your choice on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. All of these jars are Backpack Items.<a id="sect341-2" idref="sect341-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Apart from the secret door by which you entered, you notice that there is a narrow passageway which leads out of this room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you wish to leave the room by this passageway, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you wish to leave by the secret door and retrace your steps all the way back to the west passage, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you inch your way towards the iron portal, your super-senses alert you to a hairline crack which runs vertically through the cavern wall. You run your fingers along the seam and your fingertips detect a faint change in air pressure. At once you realize that you have stumbled upon a secret doorway.</p>
- <p>Eagerly your eyes search the adjoining wall and floor for a concealed latch or lever. It takes a few minutes, but eventually you detect what you are looking for: a hinged flap of stone covers a lever which is set nearby into the wall at knee-height from the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you wish to pull this concealed lever, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you decide to ignore it, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature's spittle eats through the right arm and back of your tunic, causing you several deep and painful burns: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you survive this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sizzling splash of blue-white sparks erupts in front of your eyes as the bolt of crackling energy lances deep into your chest: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you survive this wounding, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drop back a few rungs, just far enough to put you beyond reach of the spear blades, and then you perform the movements of a battle-spell that Lord Rimoah calls <quote>The Invisible Fist</quote>. You clench your right fist, then extend your arm and open your palm towards the enemy. A tingling rush of power surges along your arm and, an instant later, you see the Acolytes tumbling backwards, knocked over by the concussive force of the spell.</p>
- <p>You seize your chance and swiftly ascend to the platform. A well-aimed kick sends one of the Acolytes toppling over the edge to fall, screaming, into the midst of some glass boxes on an experiment table far below. His partner is back on his feet, weapon in hand, and he meets your stare with a sneer that readily conveys his hatred of your race. Then, spurred on by the yells of his confederates in the hall below, he jumps forward and thrusts his weapon at your throat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>One of the Acolytes meets your stare with a sneer that readily conveys his hatred of your race.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="664"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="664"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Acolyte of Vashna (with Medallion of Protection)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">25</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ascent to the gap goes undetected by the Vazhag guards and you emerge on a mountainside, at a place hidden beneath an outcrop which is ringed by wind-worn boulders and scrub. Early morning sunlight illuminates the surrounding hills, and beyond them you see a vast expanse of forest, a sea of sickly grey-green trees, which radiates an unmistakable aura of evil. The position of the sun and your Pathsmanship skills inform you that you are now looking upon the Forest of Ruel from the eastern foothills of the Skardos Mountains.</p>
- <p>The land appears deserted, the only unusual feature being a wide dirt track which wends its way eastward through the hills towards a gap at the edge of the grim forest. You consult your map and conclude that this must be the Skardos Trail, the secret route used by the Ceners, which leads all the way to their stronghold of Mogaruith. You resolve to follow the trail, but first (unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery) you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the bottom of the stairs the tunnel continues in a straight line towards a stout wooden door that is studded and braced with iron. You sense that it is locked even before you have reached it. When you do reach the door you notice a keyhole located beneath its rust-pitted handle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess a Copper Key, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without a sound you raise your weapon and tense yourself in readiness to strike. At first the Vazhag and the Cener seem unaware of your presence. But as they move to enter the south tunnel, the Vazhag suddenly freeze in their tracks and begin squealing frantically.</p>
- <p>The sound galvanizes you into action. Like a panther hungry for the kill, swiftly and silently you leap among the Vazhag and strike down the two nearest with one scything blow. Before they have fallen you kick out at the chest of another and feel its bones crack under the impact. A side-swipe puts paid to a fourth of their number, neatly parting its disease-riddled head from its shoulders. You pause for breath, and see the remaining enemy backing away in shocked confusion.</p>
- <p>Ineptly they fumble to unsheathe their weapons whilst the Cener screams at them to avenge their slain comrades. One Vazhag plucks up enough courage to attack you and, with ease, you duck its whistling sword stroke. Before it can strike again, you can dispatch the beast with a lightning-fast stab through the heart. Your strike is executed with such economy of movement that, to the druid and the remaining Vazhag, it looks as if you hardly moved at all. For the sole surviving Vazhag it is the last straw and, with a squeal of abject terror, it drops its torch and rusty blade and scurries for the dark safety of the north tunnel.</p>
- <p>Cursing vilely, the Cener retreats until his red-robed back is pressed flat against the cavern wall. His mask hides his entire face, yet even so you can sense the blazing hatred that is pouring from his eyes, as if it were a stream of liquid fire. You raise your weapon and advance, eager to finish the druid swiftly, but you are halted by a sudden, unexpected pulse of psychic energy that crashes like a wave against your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you do not possess this Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Cener's dying scream alerts the Vazhag pack and they come scampering back to investigate the sound. The moment they see you, standing over their leader like a hunter over his kill, their nerve appears to crumble. They lower their weapons and begin to edge away. Then the leading rat-men panic; they turn and run, and the others quickly follow suit, leaving you alone in the clearing with the body of the dead druid lying crumpled at your feet.</p>
- <p>Curiosity prompts you to prise away the druid's green mask and look upon the face of this servant of evil. It is an ugly, disease-riddled face, human in shape yet lacking any trace of humanity. Reluctantly you search him and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Cener Robe (If kept, this item will occupy 2 spaces in your Backpack)</li>
- <li>Cener Mask</li>
- <li>20 Lune (equivalent to 5 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai skills tell you that the golden rod no longer possesses any magical aura; its destructive powers vanished the moment its wielder breathed his last. You stoop to prise it from the dead druid's hand, but as soon as your fingers touch its metallic surface it disintegrates into a fine, foul-smelling dust.</p>
- <p>With twilight but an hour away, you leave the clearing via the gap and hurry along the muddy track beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing upon your very last reserves of strength, you fight against the powerful current and succeed in avoiding being hit by the deluge of rocks and flames. As your strength subsides, you are swept under the bridge and, minutes later, you find yourself washed up on the west bank of the Storn. A company of Slovian archers drag you from the icy water and, fearing you to be a Cenerese spy, they take you to their Captain. Fortunately he recognizes your Kai cloak and tunic, and at once you are afforded the treatment and respect which befits one who holds the title of Kai Grand Master.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="200"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="200"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The Captain sends word of your survival to the Palmyrions at Holona where, the following day, you are reunited with Captain Cearmaine and Guildmaster Banedon. Later that same day, the president of Palmyrion&emdash;Elector Manatine&emdash;arrives with his entourage and, upon learning of the success of your daring mission, he orders that an official celebration take place throughout the republic. You receive the thanks of a grateful nation and, in recognition of your bravery, the Elector presents you with the <quote>Golden Star of Palmyrion</quote>, the highest award his country can bestow upon a warrior.</p>
- <p>Congratulations Lone Wolf!&emdash;you have won a major victory over the Cenerese and removed a threat which could have devastated all of Magnamund. Yet the struggle against Evil goes on. Within a few months of your triumphant return to Sommerlund a grave situation develops, a situation which threatens the life of your closest friend&emdash;Guildmaster Banedon.</p>
- <p>The nature of this threat and your quest to overcome it awaits you in Book 14 of the Lone Wolf series, entitled:</p>
- <p><a href="&link.14tcok;"><cite>The Captives of Kaag.</cite></a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Dark Realm of Ruel</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="103" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acchklst.gif" width="385" height="128" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="title">Title Page</a>) Replaced <quote>THE PLAGUE LORDS OF RUEL</quote> with <quote><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>, <quote>freestate</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>, <quote>Ragador</quote> with <quote>Ragadorn</quote>, and <quote>Arch-Druid</quote> with <quote>Arch Druid</quote>. Combined the last two paragraphs into one.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote> that you will find in the front of this book. For ease of use, and for further adventuring, it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote>. Replaced <quote>To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> on the last page of this book</quote> with <quote>To do this, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote>. Replaced all occurrences of <quote>ie,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>. Replaced <quote>These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses.</quote> with <quote>These scores may include Lore-circle bonuses. You may also benefit from the Disciplines that you've mastered (e.g. Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>. Replaced <quote>THE CAPTIVES OF KAAG</quote> with <quote><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite></quote> and <quote>weapons listed overleaf</quote> with <quote>weapons listed below</quote>. Replaced <quote>disciplines</quote> with <quote>Disciplines</quote>. Replaced <quote>their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> with <quote>their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote> under Deliverance. It seems unlikely that the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score would ever be reduced to such a low level. We assume that this was intended to be <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> instead.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Removed <quote>(see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>. Amended the text to correctly reflect the +5 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for Grand Weaponmastery. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>. Replaced <quote>eg,</quote> with <quote>e.g.</quote>. Replaced all occurences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>. In the example combat, changed Lone Wolf's initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to 27 and corrected the Kai Surge bonus to +8 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Removed the quotation marks from <quote>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>Extermius</quote> with <quote>Exterminus</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>) Replaced <quote>crease</quote> with <quote>cease</quote> and <quote>fowards</quote> with <quote>forwards</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) Moved the Animal Mastery choice into the first position.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote> and <quote>Ruel war-dogs</quote> with <quote>Ruel War-dogs</quote>. Replaced <quote>wag dogs</quote> with <quote>war-dogs</quote> and <quote>charge</quote> with <quote>charges</quote> in the illustrations caption.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>sub-conscious</quote> with <quote>subconscious</quote> and <quote>curing</quote> with <quote>Curing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>it red</quote> with <quote>its red</quote>, <quote>pit agarashi</quote> with <quote>Pit Agarashi</quote>, <quote>it red eyes</quote> with <quote>its red eyes</quote>, and <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced <quote>side-step</quote> with <quote>sidestep</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>pit agarashi</quote> with <quote>Pit Agarashi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>as it they were</quote> with <quote>as if they were</quote> and <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Replaced <quote>blood-lust</quote> with <quote>bloodlust</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect41">41</a>) Replaced <quote>suface</quote> with <quote>surface</quote>, <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>, and <quote>aproaches</quote> with <quote>approaches</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect47">47</a>) Replaced <quote>eg</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect49">49</a>) Replaced <quote>senses tells</quote> with <quote>senses tell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>seeth</quote> with <quote>seethe</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>rib-cage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote> and <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Added <quote>(unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>animal control</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote> and <quote>divination</quote> and <quote>Divination</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Replaced <quote>Grand Mastery of Nexus</quote> with <quote>Mastery of Grand Nexus</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, and <quote>quiver</quote> with <quote>Quiver</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>youself</quote> with <quote>yourself</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>) Replaced <quote>imposter</quote> with <quote>impostor</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>death blow</quote> with <quote>death-blow</quote>, <quote>pit agarashi</quote> with <quote>Pit Agarashi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>freeland</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replaced <quote>discoloration</quote> with <quote>discolouration</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>) Replaced <quote>divination</quote> with <quote>Divination</quote> and <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Replaced <quote>pit agarashi's</quote> with <quote>Pit Agarashi's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>0&endash;4</quote> with <quote>3&endash;4</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Replaced <quote>You wait</quote> with <quote>Waiting</quote>, <quote>gong echoes n some</quote> with <quote>gong echoes in some</quote>, and <quote>begining</quote> with <quote>beginning</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>beating time</quote> with <quote>beating in time</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>foward</quote> with <quote>forward</quote> and <quote>Plague agarashi</quote> with <quote>Plague Agarashi</quote> and <quote>plague agarashi</quote> with <quote>Plague Agarashi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>Bow and wish to use it</quote> with <quote>Bow and an Arrow and wish to use them</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) <quote>levitation</quote> with <quote>Levitation</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> and <quote>least</quote> with <quote>lest</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect147">147</a>) Replaced <quote>lancer</quote> with <quote>Lancer</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect151">151</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Alchemy <em>and</em> Kai Surge</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy <em>and</em> Kai-surge</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Replaced <quote>divination</quote> with <quote>Divination</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, and <quote>foward</quote> with <quote>forward</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Replaced <quote>wagon-loads</quote> with <quote>wagonloads</quote> and <quote>Cener mask</quote> with <quote>Cener Mask</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect172">172</a>) Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>suface</quote> with <quote>surface</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect182">182</a>) Replaced <quote>fast flowing</quote> with <quote>fast-flowing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect187">187</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>. Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect188">188</a>) Replaced <quote>Grand Mastery</quote> with <quote>Grand Nexus</quote>. (cf. <a idref="sect203">Section 203</a>)</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>fissure, by</quote> with <quote>fissure by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote> and <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>) Replaced <quote>Ghorkas</quote> with <quote>ghorkas</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>giaks</quote> with <quote>Giaks</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>out-distanced</quote> with <quote>outdistanced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote> and <quote>Ruel war-dogs</quote> with <quote>Ruel War-dogs</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>) Replaced <quote>0&endash;2 turn</quote> with <quote>0&endash;2, turn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>Plague hound</quote> with <quote>Plague Hound</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>Unforturnately</quote> with <quote>Unfortunately</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>, and <quote>spreadeagled</quote> with <quote>spread-eagled</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) Replaced <quote>hunch of maggoty</quote> with <quote>haunch of maggoty</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>Sloat</quote> with <quote>sloat</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>creatures snarls</quote> with <quote>creature snarls</quote> and <quote>Cener druids</quote> with <quote>Cener Druids</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circle</quote> with <quote>semicircle</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>) Removed <quote>at the front of this book</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>) Replaced <quote>flame, Two</quote> with <quote>flame. Two</quote> and <quote>supersenses</quote> with <quote>super-senses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>use it</quote> with <quote>use them</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote> and <quote>stength</quote> with <quote>strength</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Split the choice about the two tunnels into two paragraphs and added an ellipse (&ellips;) to the end of the first new paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>) Replaced <quote>Sloat</quote> with <quote>sloat</quote> and <quote>spreadeagled</quote> with <quote>spread-eagled</quote>. Replaced <quote>Quarlen</quote> with <quote>Quarlen or the ruins of Maaken</quote> in the first choice. Replaced <quote>Quarlen</quote> with <quote>either of these locations</quote> in the second choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Replaced <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect292">292</a>) Replaced <quote>un-dead</quote> with <quote>undead</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>degradon</quote> with <quote>Degradon</quote> and <quote>shape extreme</quote> with <quote>shape, extreme</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>pit agarashi's</quote> with <quote>Pit Agarashi's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>afore his</quote> with <quote>afore His</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect303">303</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>Cener druid</quote> with <quote>Cener Druid</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>lifiting</quote> with <quote>lifting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect317">317</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>suddeness</quote> with <quote>suddenness</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>Bloodspattered</quote> with <quote>Blood-spattered</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>Plague hound</quote> with <quote>Plague Hound</quote>. Replaced <quote>the gigantic hound</quote> with <quote>a gigantic hound</quote> in the illustration caption.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Replaced <quote>re-united</quote> with <quote>reunited</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Replaced <quote>eg,</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Typeset the list of items in initial capital letters instead of all capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Typeset <quote><a href="&link.14tcok;"><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite></a></quote> in initial capital letters instead of all capitals.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6-12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13-20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p> <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) This is the correct answer to the combination lock riddle in Sections <a idref="sect158">158</a> and <a idref="sect227">227</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>) This section corresponds to an incorrect answer to the riddle in <a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Although adding <quote>a further 2</quote> to your random number implies that you must have Kai-surge to get this bonus, it is also reasonable to apply this bonus whether or not you have this Discipline.</p> <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) You must defeat all of the Ruel War-dogs before turning to <a idref="sect37">Section 37</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) If you possess the Sommerswerd, you should double the Undead Plague Agarashi's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>) This section corresponds to the correct answer to the riddle in <a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) You must have at least one Arrow in order to <cite>be able to use</cite> a Bow.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) You must defeat the Plague Hound before turning to <a idref="sect114">Section 114</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect227">227</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) According to <cite><a href="&link.05sots;">Shadow on the Sand</a></cite> Section 2, one dose of the Oede herb can heal 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of damage.</p>
- <p>Since you <quote>take down half a dozen jars</quote> and there are exactly six types of herbs in the list, it may safely be assumed that one jar contains all of a given herb or potion. (e.g. one jar contains all five doses of Laumspur) If each jar is one Backpack Item, then the Cener have created some <em>extremely</em> concentrated potions which take up very little space.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) You must defeat the Plague Hound before turning to <a idref="sect114">Section 114</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) According to <cite><a href="&link.05sots;">Shadow on the Sand</a></cite> Section 2, one dose of the Oede herb can heal 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of damage.</p>
- <p>Since you <quote>take down half a dozen jars</quote> and there are exactly six types of herbs in the list, it may safely be assumed that one jar contains all of a given herb or potion. (e.g. one jar contains all five doses of Laumspur) If each jar is one Backpack Item, then the Cener have created some <em>extremely</em> concentrated potions which take up very little space.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect11">Section 11</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect32">Section 32</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect50">Section 50</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect57">Section 57</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect85">Section 85</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect120">Section 120</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect125">Section 125</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect131">Section 131</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect160">Section 160</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect182">Section 182</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect214">Section 214</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect222">Section 222</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect238">Section 238</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect266">Section 266</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect283">Section 283</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect295">Section 295</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect325">Section 325</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect345">Section 345</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Dark Realm of Ruel</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect48">Section 48</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect61">Section 61</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect81">Section 81</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect98">Section 98</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect103">Section 103</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect113">Section 113</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect115">Section 115</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect158">Section 158</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect208">Section 208</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect240">Section 240</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect242">Section 242</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect265">Section 265</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect285">Section 285</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. The precise terms and conditions of this license follow.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>One exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-3">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by receiving or viewing a copy or copies of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed any written document. Indeed you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person lives, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this license. That same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd" [
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- <!ENTITY % general.inclusions SYSTEM "geninc.mod">
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-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.4 2005/03/26 16:22:12 jonathan.blake
-Adding Illustrator Transcription credits that went missing since
-The Masters of Darkness
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 06:41:19 jonathan.blake
-*** empty log message ***
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:16 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.7 2003/03/05 23:51:16 jblake
-Fixes to the Table of Illustrations, illustrations placement
-and markup.
-
-Revision 1.6 2003/03/05 22:01:56 jblake
-Moved small illustration placeholders into chosen sections
-and implemented the Table of Illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.5 2003/03/03 17:00:00 jdougan
-Added illustrations and placeholder markup for the small illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.4 2003/02/24 15:33:46 jblake
-Inserted missing backmatter and fixed validity.
-
-Revision 1.3 2003/02/24 15:00:00 jdougan
-Coded special characters and added backmatter.
-
-Revision 1.2 2003/02/20 17:47:00 jblake
-Added numbered sections and validated.
-
-Revision 1.1 2003/02/20 17:21:09 jdougan
-Initial progress on front matter
-
-Change log:
-- TSSF: Changed Oarklands to Darklands as a presumed OCR error.
-Game Rules: retained original list of acceptable Special Items from 13tplor
-As the XML editions of the front matter from 13TPLoR and the Rules Handbook were used to speed the processing of the existing front matter, all remaining errata in the front matter from 13TPLoR apply here, as well. this also means that the Combat Rules example is the one from the Rules Handbook. (it was this editor's opinion that a Combat Ratio of +10 was unrealistic for a first-time player.)
-
-- Inserted coding for &emdash; and &endash;
-- Added coding for <quote>, and <thought> markup to appropriate speeches.
-- Pasted blank backmatter
-- Replaced all remaining ' with '
-- Fixed markup of a few lists of found items
-- Added placeholder code for primary illustrations; full code for combination lock illustrations
-- Fixed dimensions and references on primary illustrations; added formatted placeholder code for secondary illustrations in following commented section
-- Fixed captions in primary illustrations
-
-//////////////////////////
-
-TO DO:
-
-- do the Statuettes of Zagarna and Slutar occupy a Backpack space in addition to a Special Item slot?
-- Footnotes for combination lock answers
-- add "foreign" tags to Giak
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>The Captives of Kaag</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>5</month><day>19</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the Lone Wolf&emdash;Kai Grand Master of Sommerlund. After the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, the fearsome city-fortress of Kaag became a refuge for the remains of their broken armies. Defeated and powerless, these minions seemed doomed to live in bitter isolation from the rest of Magnamund. But now a new evil is stirring deep within the dungeons of Kaag.&ellips;</p>
- <p>In <cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>, you must venture alone into the black heart of Kaag, to free your friend from the forces which imprison him against his will. Will you succeed? Or will you and Banedon fall victim to the evil power which commands this fortress of nightmares?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta><title>Table of Contents</title></meta>
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Mike, Jeannie and Megan</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- &inclusion.joe.dever.endowment;
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Rob Hataway<br />Tim Pederick</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Action Charts</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Rob Hartley (Sections 141&endash;210)<br />Tim Pederick (Sections 71&endash;140)<br />Martin Ryland (Frontmatter, Sections 1&endash;70 and 211&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br />Jeff Dougan<br />Nick Jankowski<br />Ingo Klöcker<br />Christopher Lundgren<br />Simon Osborne</dd>
-<!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd></dd>-->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Peter Smyth</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
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- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of your élite warrior caste.</p>
- <p>It is the year MS 5075 and twenty-five years have passed since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar, the King of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund, have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain&emdash;the Darklands&emdash;and caused the destruction of their leader, Archlord Gnaag, and the seat of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Northern Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, most notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war, which allowed the Freeland armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Skilfully their commanders exploited the chaos and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
- <p>For five years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction, the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a Second Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well underway. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possesses latent Kai skills and all show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai Lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai monastery and organized the training of the Second Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded and, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose to their new-found responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines.</p>
- <p>During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the monastery, one hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power that you had recovered during your quest for the Magnakai. It was here, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, that you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors&emdash;Banedon and Rimoah&emdash;you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master Disciplines, and grasp the fundamental secrets of Left-handed and Old Kingdom magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now, for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
- <p>At this time many changes were occurring beyond the borders of Sommerlund. In the regions to the northeast of Magador and the Maakengorge, the Elder Magi of Dessi and the Herbwardens of Bautar were working together in an effort to restore the dusty volcanic wasteland to its former fertile state. It was the first tentative step towards the reclamation of all the Darklands. However, their progress was painfully slow and both parties were resigned to the fact that their efforts to undo the damage caused by the Darklords would take not years but centuries to complete.</p>
- <p>In the far west, the Drakkarim had retreated to the homelands and were engaged in a bloody war again the Lencians. Much of Nyras had been reclaimed by the armies of King Sarnac, the Lencian commander, and his flag now flew over territory which, two thousand years ago, had once been part of Lencia.</p>
- <p>Following the destruction of the Darklords of Helgedad, the Giaks, the most prolific in number of all of Gnaag's troops, fled into the Darklands and sought refuge in the gigantic city-fortresses of Nadgazad, Aarnak, Gourmen and Kaag. Within each of these hellish strongholds fierce fighting broke out as remnants of the Xaghash (lesser Darklords) and the Nadziranim (evil practitioners of Right-handed magic who once aided individual Darklord masters) fought for control. It is widely believed that by the time the Elder Magi and the Herbwardens reach the walls of these strongholds the occupants will have long since brought about their own extinction.</p>
- <p>Elsewhere, throughout northern Magnamund, peace reigns victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms rejoice in the knowledge that the age of the Darklords has finally come to an end. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of Naar come in many guises and there are those who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
- <p>Only six months ago the evil Cener Druids of Ruel attempted to enact Naar's revenge. Secretly, in the laboratories of their foul stronghold of Mogaruith, they had laboured to create a virulent plague virus capable of killing every living creature upon Magnamund, save their own kind. Word of their terrible plan reached Lord Rimoah who immediately urged the rulers of the Freelands to raise armies and invade Ruel. Hurriedly they complied, but the invasion ended in disaster. Seven thousand fighting men entered Ruel intent on storming the fortress of Mogaruith and razing it to the ground. Seven thousand marched into the dark realm; only seventy emerged alive. The Ceners were within days of perfecting their ultimate weapon when you took up the challenge and ventured alone into Mogaruith. Despite overwhelming odds you thwarted their evil plan by destroying the virus and the means by which it was created.</p>
- <p>After emerging from Ruel triumphant, your quest fulfilled, you returned home to Sommerlund and the Kai monastery where you resumed your duties as Grand Master. Three months later, on the day that saw the first fall of winter snow, you were visited by Lord Rimoah. Once again he found himself the reluctant bearer of ill news. Your friend Guildmaster Banedon, whilst helping with the reclamation of wastelands close to the Maakengorge, had been abducted by a war-band of Giaks under the command of Nadziranim sorcerers. A rescue was attempted, but ruthlessly the Nadziranim obliterated those who tried to follow their escape into the Darklands.</p>
- <p><quote>The Nadziranim have grown bold of late,</quote> said Lord Rimoah, his words tinged with fear and bitterness. <quote>They have a new-found power and are keen to exercise it. It would have taken considerable skill and energy to ensnare one as gifted as Banedon.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But why Banedon?</quote> you asked, trying at once to comprehend and come to terms with the loss of your trusted friend.</p>
- <p><quote>I fear that the Nadziranim seek to extract from him the secrets of Left-handed magic, so that they may be able to marry it to their own foul sorcery. Such an outcome would give them extraordinary power. It could herald the rebirth of the Darklands.</quote></p>
- <p>At once you recalled how such an attempt to unite the two paths of magic had resulted in catastrophe for Sommerlund. Vonotar the Traitor, a magician from the same guild as Banedon, had betrayed his homeland in exchange for the promise of Nadziranim power. It was his act of treachery that brought about the invasion of Sommerlund and the destruction of the First Order of the Kai.</p>
- <p><quote>What can be done?</quote> you asked of Rimoah, fearful that it may already be too late to save your friend.</p>
- <p><quote>Banedon is still alive, of that I'm sure. The Nadziranim have taken him to the old Darklord city-fortress of Kaag. His life is in deadly danger but they will not kill him until they have succeeded in extracting the knowledge they crave. We can only pray that he is strong enough to resist them until&ellips;</quote> Lord Rimoah held you with his eyes, words no longer necessary. It was clear that all hope for Banedon's survival depended upon his swift rescue from Kaag, and there was only one who could effect such a perilous quest with any hope of success.</p>
- <p><quote>So be it,</quote> you said, resolutely, <quote>I accept the mission. I alone will go to Kaag and secure his release&ellips; or die valiantly in the attempt.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For five years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1-13), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 14. These scores may include Lore-circle bonuses. You may also benefit from the Disciplines that you've mastered (e.g. Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses).<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over from the Lone Wolf Kai (1-5) and Magnakai (6-12) series to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (<a href="&link.13tplor;">Book 13</a> onwards):<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Dagger of Vashna</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Helshezag</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6-12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13-20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature's sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the Gods Kai and Ishir go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart.</a></p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<a id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title>Magi-magic</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros&emdash;the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and artifacts.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 14 of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.15tdc;">Book 15.</a></p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Disciplines, your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <a href="&link.15tdc;"><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite></a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you leave the monastery and journey westwards to Kaag, you take with you a <a idref="map">map of the Darklands</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1-13), you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures. (Remember, you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six Arrows: record them on your weapons list.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>4 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Item)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Carry Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Axe&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Spear&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta>
- <title>How Much Can You Carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a quiver and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35-30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
-
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian's bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell>&emdash;This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell>&emdash;This causes the tip of any Arrow, or arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- <p>The nature of these additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Grand Master Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master's Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission to enter old Darklord city-fortress of Kaag and rescue Guildmaster Banedon will be fraught with deadly dangers. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for the inhabitants of Kaag are still a formidable enemy despite the demise of their Darklord masters.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will find during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all, so try to be selective in what you decide to keep.</p>
- <p>Choose your four Grand Master Disciplines with care, for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>The survival of your countryman and close friend Banedon depends on the success of your mission. May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you venture into the grim darkness of Kaag.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Preparations for the quest take no more than a day to complete. The following morning, shortly before dawn, you and Lord Rimoah leave the Kai monastery by a secret route which takes you to a clearing deep in the heart of the Fryelund forest. There awaits the means by which you will travel swiftly to Kaag.</p>
- <p>Your journey to the Darklands will be made aboard Guildmaster Banedon's airship&emdash;the <cite>Skyrider</cite>. This magical craft has borne you on many quests to distant lands, yet never before without your friend and companion at its helm. Now, in his absence, the stewardship of the <cite>Skyrider</cite> has passed to its bo'sun&emdash;Nolrim of Bor.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Welcome aboard, Grand Master,</quote> says Nolrim, proud to be serving under your command. You clasp his strong hand in friendship and compliment him and the crew for the pristine condition of their craft. There is no doubting that he and his company of dwarves are sorely grieved by the absence of their Captain, yet they have not allowed their anguish to give way to hopelessness or despair. These sturdy warriors are renowned for their formidable fighting spirit and you know they willingly risk their lives to help you rescue Banedon from the minions of darkness.</p>
- <p>Soon the frost-laden fir trees are receding beneath the <cite>Skyrider's</cite> bow as Nolrim steers a westward course towards the grey, snow-capped peaks of the Durncrag mountains. You spend the flight inside the Captain's cabin, where you and Lord Rimoah discuss your dangerous mission. The plan is to traverse the Durncrag Range and enter the Darklands under cover of a dust storm which is currently sweeping southwards towards Kaag. A landing will be made ten miles to the north-east of the city-fortress, beyond a ridge of hills that will keep the <cite>Skyrider</cite> hidden from the eyes of Kaag's watchful lookouts. From there you are to make your way to the fortress on foot, enter as best you can, locate and rescue Banedon, then return with him to the <cite>Skyrider</cite> which will carry you back to the safety of Sommerlund. You will have 48 hours in which to complete your mission. If, after the two days have elapsed, you have not returned, Rimoah will be forced to assume that you and the Guildmaster have perished. The dust storm will not last for more than two days, after which time there is a grave danger that the <cite>Skyrider</cite> will be spotted and attacked by the Kraan and Zlanbeasts which are known to patrol the skies around Kaag.</p>
- <p>In a little under two hours you reach your destination where the weather conditions are atrocious. A fierce, dust-choked wind buffets the craft mercilessly during the final descent and visibility is no more than a dozen yards at best. Yet, despite these terrible conditions, Nolrim brings the <cite>Skyrider</cite> in for a faultless landing behind the ridge. The moment the keel beds into the soft ground, the crew leap into action with ropes and chains. Nolrim soon enters the cabin to inform you that the craft is secure and, with trepidation, you get ready to set off for Kaag.</p>
- <p><quote>Godspeed, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Rimoah, with a smile of encouragement. <quote>I shall pray to Kai and Ishir for your safety and success. May their light guide you on your journey into darkness.</quote></p>
- <p>You acknowledge his blessing gratefully before bidding him, and Nolrim, farewell. Then, without looking back, you pull your warm cloak tight about you and set off into the storm.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of arrows whistling towards your back provides all the incentive you need to keep running. You bound up the steps and, as the deadly barbed shafts fly past only inches from your back and legs, you run headlong into the tunnel.</p>
- <p>The dingy passage beyond descends by slope and stair to a rectangular hall which is lined with ancient stone statues, their features made unrecognizable by age. Tar-soaked torches fixed to the two longest walls illuminate this musty chamber with a flickering amber light, and the air is heavy with their oily stench. In the distance you see an archway and the passage continuing away into darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to stop here for a few minutes and try to revive Banedon, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to press on without stopping here, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect3-1-foot" idref="sect3-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to the correct answer to the Kagonite door lock.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the third tap the lock emits a distinct click and, slowly, the great door swings open to reveal a dark, smoky tunnel.<a id="sect3-1" idref="sect3-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Warily you pass through the door and enter the unwelcoming passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run into a passageway and follow it towards a distant intersection, but as you near the end of this narrow thoroughfare, a figure clad in red robes, accompanied by three Giaks, suddenly appears from the right and blocks your path. At once you recognize the robed creature: it is a Vordak, an undead spawn of the Darklords. The instant it sees you it attempts to cut you down with a bolt of psychic energy, but your innate Magnakai defences negate this attack. Shocked by your immunity to its power, the Vordak scans your mind and instantly discovers your true identity. With a shriek of abject horror the creature turns and flees, leaving its Giak escort stunned and bewildered by its behaviour. Then, too, their nerve breaks and they scurry after their lieutenant as fast as their bowed legs will carry them.</p>
- <p>Anxious to prevent them from escaping and raising the alarm, you chase them towards a junction at the end of the street. When they reach the junction they split up; the Vordak turns to the left, while the three Giaks head off to the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to pursue the Vordak, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you choose to pursue the Giaks, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Defiantly you raise your right hand and point your finger at the Helghast's chest. The creature sneers, revealing two sharp fangs which protrude from its lower jaw. It emits a hideous cackle, full of hatred and contempt, and its eyes blaze like two hot coals as it confidently quickens its gait. You utter the words of power that you learned from your mentor, Guildmaster Banedon, and at once your whole hand is sleeved with a crackling blue-white fire. A jolt runs the length of your arm and a pulse of energy, shaped like a small meteor, arcs from your index finger towards the approaching Helghast. The bolt rips through its chest and, with a wail of abject terror, the creature is lifted into the air and sent tumbling backwards into the flame-filled moat.</p>
- <p>Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the all-consuming fire. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, but years of fierce battle discipline soon override their anxiety and, like two automatons, they raise their swords and continue to advance towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Veterans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the sun-sword and the onrushing bolt of energy is drawn to its blade where it collides with a brilliant flash, showering you with sparks which rapidly dissolve. Power surges through the hilt of your divine sword and flows along your arm, renewing your flagging strength: increase your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 3.</p>
- <p>Revitalized by this energy, you bite back your fear and focus on the advancing swarm. Suddenly your psychic senses tingle. These are no ordinary insects; in fact these are not insects at all. Your sixth sense detects that they are merely a clever illusion created to deceive you. Confident in this knowledge, you stand your ground and allow the tide of creepy-crawlies to wash over your feet. Within a matter of seconds the insect horde fades and vanishes, dispelled by your disbelief in their existence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes an extraordinary effort to open the crypt door, but you do not allow it to defeat you. Soon you have forced it open sufficiently for you to be able to squeeze through the gap and escape. Reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 3 because of the exertion required to open the door.</p>
- <p>You climb the short flight of steps to the street above and survey the surrounding ruins. When you are satisfied that it is safe to continue, you run to a neighbouring ruin where you stop to catch your breath. Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">To continue, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect8-1-foot" idref="sect8-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to the correct answer to the lock on the exit from the torture chamber of the Nadziranim.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the eighth tap, there is a loud <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia> and the heavy steel door creaks slowly open.<a id="sect8-1" idref="sect8-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Ahead you see a ramp which slopes down to a junction where a passage crosses from left to right. You descend the slope, taking care not to graze Banedon's back against the low ceiling, and when you reach the junction you ask your friend in which direction you should go. Unfortunately your question goes unanswered; Banedon has lapsed once more into unconsciousness.</p>
- <p>You stand at the junction and use your Kai senses in an attempt to choose the safest route, but you detect nothing that can help or influence your decision. Both routes seem equally unwelcoming and perilous.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you decide to turn left, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you choose to go right, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aided by your youthful strength and Kai skills, you catch hold of the archway and pull yourself to safety. After pausing just long enough to catch your breath, you look into the dust-filled room and reflect upon how you were nearly buried alive. With a shake of your head you dismiss these morbid thoughts and set off along the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull yourself over the parapet, only to be confronted immediately by a Drakkar guard. Unbeknown to you he has been sitting on the tower roof, quietly watching the spectacle of the feeding Kraan.</p>
- <p>He grabs you by the throat and attempts to throw you off the tower. You counter this clumsy attack easily by turning his hand aside and grabbing hold of his battle tunic. A swift twist of your body sends him sailing over your shoulder to land, head first, in the street below.</p>
- <p>The guard, his neck broken, is no longer a threat to anyone, so you turn your attention to the five Kraan which are feeding on the roof. Gingerly you approach them, hoping not to startle them into flight, but the commotion, and your presence, has made them very uneasy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you possess the Discipline of Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search for a weak spot on the creature's shell but you cannot readily discern one. The tip of your Arrow is made of best Sommlending steel but, even so, you fear it may not be sufficient to penetrate the creature's chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you do not possess this skill, or have not yet reached this Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon to defend yourself from the creature's attack but, as you stare into its hellish eyes, you suddenly realize that this supernatural horror is immune to the effects of man-made weaponry.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you possess the Dagger of Vashna, a Jewelled Mace, or Helshezag, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not possess one of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step over the dead war-dog and enter the adjoining chamber. This foul-smelling room is littered with Giak bones and half-chewed haunches of greenish meat. Amongst the debris you notice something gleaming dully. It is a bronze statuette, forged in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry the maximum number of items allowed, you will have to discard one in its favour.</p>
- <p>To your right you notice another curtained archway. Through the threadbare cloth you can see a stone staircase spiralling down into the dark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to explore this staircase, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you choose to retrace your steps and leave the barracks, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can find something with which to start a fire, the octopoid moves away from the pool and forces you back against the wall of rubble. You contemplate escaping through the narrow gap by which you entered the chamber but it is already too late; the creature's tentacles are almost upon you.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The octopoid forces you back against the wall of rubble<br />and you face the hideous being in mortal combat.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="613"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="613"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Resigned to your fate, you unsheathe your weapon and prepare to face this hideous being in mortal combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Korozon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Liganim watch you return to Banedon, then they turn and flee through the archway. Less than a minute later they return with a troop of armoured Drakkarim and Giak soldiers. Like a horde of screaming fanatics, they come rushing down the staircase and spread out to surround you and your companion. You draw your weapon and fight bravely, dispatching more than fifty of the enemy, but they receive a constant stream of reinforcements and, when finally your strength fails you, you are overwhelmed by these merciless denizens of Kaag.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your desperate attempts to reach the saddle are dashed when the Kraan rears up in the air and rakes you with its claws. You lose your grip and fall screaming to the concourse below.</p>
- <p>You hit the ground and instantly lose consciousness. Tragically, although you survive the fall, you never reawaken. Your body is discovered by a Giak patrol who kill you out of hand, thinking you to be an enemy spy in disguise.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here before the citadel of Kaag.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Arrow strikes the creature in the centre of its forehead but causes it no injury. With a dull <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia> the tip snaps off and the shaft ricochets harmlessly away. There is no time now for a second shot so you hurriedly shoulder your Bow and draw a hand weapon. Sensing victory within its grasp, the creature emits a gurgling shriek and comes bounding forwards. You get ready to meet its advance; however, when it is only ten feet away, it suddenly opens its mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sensation of danger is steadily building. Fearful that the denizens of this domain may burst into the hall and thwart your rescue attempt at any moment, you cast the Brotherhood spell <quote>Detect Evil</quote> in the hope of locating exactly where the danger lies.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, the spell merely serves to increase the sensitivity of your Kai senses. The sensation of impending danger becomes like a heavy cloud that is suffocating you. Gasping for breath, you are forced to break off the spell for fear of losing consciousness: deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you possess Telegnosis, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you do not possess this Discipline, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your special abilities, you cause your facial features to change. Your expression, and the bone structure of your face, takes on the wholly brutal countenance of a Drakkar. Boldly you stride up the stairs towards the guard and slap the flint and braid from his gloved hands.</p>
- <p><quote>Okak dan-ish! Ok der kog!</quote> you growl, ordering him, in his native tongue, to stand aside and let you pass.</p>
- <p>The Drakkar does not move. He stares at you, open-mouthed with shock, his pipe hanging precariously from his lower lip.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Kai-screen, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If it is 3 or more, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect20-1-foot" idref="sect20-1">
- <p>This section corresponds to the correct answer to the lock on the <quote>stout steel-sheathed doors</quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door opens on your twentieth knock, revealing a small armoury beyond.<a id="sect20-1" idref="sect20-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Most of the weapons stored here are of inferior quality, but you do notice several which may be of use to you during your quest:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>4 Arrows</li>
- <li>1 Quiver</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>On the far side of this armoury you discover a spiral staircase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you choose to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of negative psychic energy crashes against your mind, forcing you to erect a defensive wall to prevent it from damaging your nervous system. You muster your psychic reserves in preparation yet, as the complex process is taking place, you suddenly realize that you are playing into your unseen enemy's hands.</p>
- <p>You sense that your attacker feeds off psychic defences; to erect a mind-wall would merely provide power for the creature to gorge itself upon. Mindful of this fact you consciously deplete your mind-wall, draining the energy away, channelling it to boost your Kai senses instead.</p>
- <p>Your strategy works; the creature breaks off its psychic attack (increase your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by 4 points). The creature then prepares to attack you face to face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229"><link-text>Turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race across the mound of jagged rubble, barely slowing your stride as you surmount this obstacle easily. The pursuing Death Knights, handicapped by their weighty armour and lack of special skills, can only watch in astonishment as you disappear from view.</p>
- <p>The street continues beyond the mound, heading due south towards the great citadel, the shadow of this edifice looming ever larger. Soon the street opens out to a wide concourse which encircles the citadel and offers access to its great northern door. The entire door is made of black iron and streaked with rust. Turrets jut from either side, on top of which you see giant cannon-like weapons, similar to those once employed by the Darklords aboard their ironclad fleets.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Giaks and Drakkarim pass the citadel, all clad in orange<br />uniforms bearing the mark of a bloodied scythe.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="613"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="613"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>From the cover of a ruined house, you watch the traffic of Giaks and Drakkarim, all clad in orange uniforms bearing the mark of a bloodied scythe. The more you stare at the citadel, the more you are sure that this is where Banedon is being held prisoner. However, entry into the citadel itself looks to be impossible, until, that is, an opportunity unexpectedly presents itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your spell causes the crystal to vibrate, but you are too weak to muster the power needed to shatter or dislodge it. The curtain of light imprisoning Banedon remains intact and you are forced to abandon the spell and try some other way of freeing him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you do not have a Bow, do not possess Kai-alchemy, or have yet to reach the required Kai rank, <link-text>turn instead to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You descend ten levels and follow a tunnel which eventually ends at a sealed door, carved from a solid slab of coal-black steel. Engraved into its surface are several runes and glyphs of power which you immediately recognize to be magical. They have been placed here as a warning to anyone foolish enough to attempt a forced entry that such an attempt is likely to result in their death.</p>
- <p>Intrigued by the warning, you examine the runes more closely. As you are doing so, you suddenly hear a sound in the tunnel and turn to see two figures approaching. Hurriedly you retreat into the shadows, masking yourself with your camouflage disciplines to prevent your detection, as the two figures draw closer to the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race to the edge of the steps and jump for the Drakkar guard. You land on his back heavily, your feet together, slamming him flat on his face with the full weight of your body and rendering him completely unconscious. You are winded by the impact but you quickly recover and drag his limp body out of sight, fearful that it will be seen by a passing patrol. Already a huge bruise is beginning to discolour his face and you are sure that it will be many hours before he regains consciousness. As you are moving him you notice that he wears two chains around his neck. To one there is attached a Whistle; to the other a Brass Key. (If you decide to keep either of these Backpack Items, mark your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.)</p>
- <p>Once you are satisfied that he is well hidden, you climb the stairs and carefully push open the heavy door. At the end of a short corridor there is a landing where a gallery overlooks the cavernous lower level.</p>
- <p>Nearby there is a staircase, leading down, and to your right you see a black oak door set flush to the wall.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet and peer down at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The challenge catches you off-guard and your mind races for an answer that you hope will sound convincing.</p>
- <p><quote>I've been sent here by my master to deliver an unholy relic,</quote> you say, patting your canvas haversack.</p>
- <p>The two guards stare at the satchel then look at each other and converse in a language you do not recognize.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Kai-alchemy or Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push Banedon aside and dive to avoid the falling trap but, even though you act speedily, your legs are ensnared by the net and you are brought crashing to your knees.</p>
- <p><quote>Finish them both!</quote> snarls a voice, and a dozen trident-wielding Drakkarim leap from the shadows, eager to enact their master's command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182"><link-text>Turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your invisible shield fails to protect you fully against all of the speeding crossbow bolts. One penetrates its weakened bottom edge, bursting through with a splash of yellow sparks to gouge your thigh: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Biting back the pain, you hurry towards the Death Knights, hoping to break through their line before they have a chance to reload and fire again. The sight of you surviving such a rain of missiles leaves many of their number staring open-mouthed with shock. You dodge through their line with ease, and by the time they realize that you have evaded them, and start to give chase, you have passed the junction and begun to run along the street opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lower Banedon to the floor and make him as comfortable as you can by propping him in a sitting position with his back against one of the statues. Then, despite your own fatigue, you use your innate healing skills in an attempt to revive him to consciousness. His pulse is weak and his skin is cold to the touch, and you can tell by his poor physical condition that he has been starved and beaten during his imprisonment here in Kaag. Placing your hands upon his brow, you feel some of your body warmth draining away as you concentrate on transmitting your healing powers to your injured friend. Slowly he responds, and although he is still too weak to speak, he manages to open his eyes and communicate with you telepathically.</p>
- <p><thought>I know this chamber&ellips;</thought> he says, <thought>&ellips;I have been here before. Look there, at the statue opposite. You'll find a lever concealed at its side. It opens a hidden door.</thought></p>
- <p>Guided by Banedon's messages you discover that there is indeed a lever as he described. You pull it and a panel in the stone wall glides open to reveal a secret alcove and flight of steps leading downwards. Noises in the tunnel warn you that Drakkarim are approaching and so, without hesitation, you shoulder your friend once more and hurry into the alcove to avoid them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fear rapidly turns to panic as the loathsome tide of insects comes crawling and scuttling towards your legs. You cast your eyes left and right, seeking escape, but before you can turn and run, you become the target of a new attack. From out of the hovering shadow there comes a crackling bolt of energy. Quickly it gathers speed as it hurtles directly towards your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs ascend to a chamber lined with wooden racks covered with saddlery, lances, tack and all manner of Kraan kit. A single Drakkar occupies this musty room. He is asleep on a chair near to a window which overlooks a landing platform and the city far below. You are tempted to take hold of the snoring guard and force him to tell you where Banedon is being held, but you daren't risk being detected. If the guard should raise the alarm, your chances of finding and rescuing your friend will be greatly reduced.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a jolt that empties your lungs and sends red-hot pain lancing up your left leg. You have landed on a heap of broken bricks and rot-infested timbers, one of which has opened a deep gash along the back of your calf: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Winded, disorientated, and in acute pain, you crawl across the slimy floor of this cellar towards a flight of steps. Then, with a chilling suddenness, your senses warn that you are not alone. From behind, a lanky grey-skinned humanoid form creeps from a shadowy hollow, snickering evilly. It leaps upon your back and scratches your face with its razor-sharp nails. You twist yourself free and hammer your elbow into its chest, sending it sprawling to the damp ground where it lies deathly still. You draw your weapon and prepare for combat, but this proves unnecessary. Your blow has crushed the creature's brittle rib cage, piercing its heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you possess the Discipline of Deliverance, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to the floor and, although you avoid the full impact of the fiery missile, it glances off your right shoulder, burning you badly. Lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have survived this wounding, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow penetrates the beast's skull and kills it instantaneously, although the momentum of its attack carries its hulking body forward for several yards before it finally crashes snout-first into the iron drawbridge floor, and tumbles head over heels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the initial heaps of rubble this avenue is surprisingly clear of debris and obstructions. You are conscious that perhaps it is too clear, offering you no cover at all from the buildings which line this route to the centre of Kaag.</p>
- <p>You decide to trust to the ruins rather than run the risk of being detected out in the open. However, within a matter of minutes you are confronted by a new hazard. The ground in this section of the city is unsafe. It is riddled with pot-holes and concealed cellars, covered by rotten wooden beams and slabs of paper-thin plaster. Suddenly one such section gives way beneath your feet and you find yourself falling headlong into coal-black darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrows fly past you on all sides, forcing you to a halt.</p>
- <p><quote>It's no good, Lone Wolf,</quote> shouts Banedon, as he watches the Drakkarim advancing along the passage, <quote>we'll have to go back and take our chances in the pen.</quote></p>
- <p>Cursing your predicament, you turn around and hurry back towards the waiting ambush. You are expecting to be attacked by more archers, yet as soon as you set foot inside the pen you are confronted by something totally unexpected. A faint sound above makes you look up, and, to your horror, you see a weighted net falling from the ceiling directly on to your heads.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aided by your mastery, you traverse the tunnel without injury and reach the cooler section beyond. Here you happen upon a steep staircase, set into the right-hand wall, which ascends to a hall on the level above. This vault-like room contains a wealth of grim exhibits, hung upon the walls and displayed in glass-fronted cases. The skulls of rare creatures are displayed beside tanned hides and jewel-encrusted bones. One item in particular catches your eye: it is a Statuette, fashioned in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The skulls of rare creatures are displayed beside tanned<br />hides, jewel encrusted bones and a Statuette of Darklord<br />Zagarna.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="613"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="613"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry your maximum quota, you must discard one item in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">To continue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dingy stone staircase leads down to an empty torchlit chamber, its floor strewn with filthy straw. A dank tunnel extends from the chamber and you follow this for over a mile before you reach its end. There you discover an iron door, eaten by rust, its lock made useless by years of acidic corrosion. Using your Magnakai skill of Nexus you free the lock mechanism, then lever the door open to reveal a short flight of steps which are almost unrecognizable beneath a carpet of moss and fungi.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you ascend, clearing the way ahead with your weapon before trusting it to your step. The stairs emerge at street level, in the midst of a once-grand building which now lies in ruins. Through one of its shattered windows you look out upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen Giak dead. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage street battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a feast of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tells you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to stay crouched in the ruins whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
-
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Talons spring from the creature's forepaws and its sharp teeth glint like polished knives as it comes leaping through the air towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vodok</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the handlers falls to your deadly blows, his sword falls from his grasp and you notice a glint of polished metal, unusually bright, radiating from a chain bracelet dangling at his wrist. The source of the glint is a polished key fixed to the chain. (If you wish to keep this Brass Key, record it as a Backpack Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>With the angry yelps of the Akataz echoing in your ears, you leap over the bodies of the slain handlers and sprint along the passage that leads away from the pen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to avoid being impaled upon the runaway log by diving between the spinning staves. You succeed in avoiding death, but one of the sharpened steel spikes gouges your leg, leaving a deep wound: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have only just re-entered the chamber when a second bolt slams into the floor of the tunnel. The blast and concussion throw you forwards, but you manage to recover your balance and stay on your feet.</p>
- <p>The sound of the explosion revives Banedon and, although he is still far too weak to speak or walk, he manages to open his eyes and communicate with you telepathically.</p>
- <p><thought>I know this chamber&ellips;</thought> he says, <thought>&ellips;I have been here before. Look there, at the statue opposite. You'll find a lever concealed at its side. It opens a hidden door. Hurry&ellips;</thought></p>
- <p>Guided by Banedon's messages you discover that there is indeed a lever as he described. You pull it and a panel in the stone wall glides open to reveal a secret alcove and flight of steps leading downwards. The sound of running feet warns you that the enemy are approaching along both passages <!--(jon: what was original???)-->, and so, without hesitation, you shoulder your friend once more and slip into the alcove to avoid them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After several abortive attempts to open the lock, you decide to abandon the door and leave the chamber by means of the narrow staircase. An unwholesome smell fills this dark spiralling stairwell and, as you descend, you are forced to cling to the wall to prevent yourself slipping on the uneven, slime-smeared steps.</p>
- <p>After several minutes your painfully slow progress is halted by a huge mound of rubble. At first your heart sinks with the fear that you have reached a dead end, then you glimpse a pinpoint of light filtering through the debris and at once your senses reveal that a chamber lies a few yards beyond. However, in order to gain access to this chamber you must first clear away some of the debris which blocks the stairs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now subtract 1 from the number you have picked. The resultant score equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost due to fatigue. (If you picked 0 or 1, your score is zero.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect100">To continue, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry along the corridor, down the steps, and along the alley to the street. When the coast is clear you cross the street and follow a passage which takes you further southwards, towards the centre of this hellish metropolis. Everywhere there is decay and dereliction. Once-grand buildings lie in ruins and every surface is beslimed with nameless refuse. Soon you happen upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen Giak dead. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage street battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a surfeit of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tells you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to crouch in a darkened doorway for cover whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The psychic assault rakes your mind, leaving you stunned and shaky: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Your Magnakai psychic defences rally to repel the probe and the pain recedes, but upon the instant that the attack is repulsed, the two dragon-creatures raise their scaly paws and shoot forth a stream of flaming bolts, aimed directly at your head and body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sheathe your weapon and unshoulder your Bow as you run towards the stairs. Once there, you draw an Arrow and take aim at the advancing creature. It halts, snarling defiantly, then, to your utter amazement, its furry chest undergoes a rapid metamorphosis. What was fur only a few seconds ago is now a shiny steel-hard shell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to aim your Arrow at the creature's shell, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you choose to aim at its head, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you decide to abandon your shot altogether, you can shoulder your Bow by <link-text>turning to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Row upon row of rough wooden bunks cover the floor of the hall below, more than two hundred in all, and racks of armour and weaponry line all four walls. You have entered a Drakkarim barracks house but, fortunately for you, the place is virtually deserted. You scan the cots and count fewer than a dozen warriors, most of whom are asleep. All wear clothing and armour which is predominantly orange in colour, and their shields are emblazoned with the mark of a bloodied scythe blade.</p>
- <p>You are anxious to leave this place but you are just as anxious to find clues to where Banedon is being held prisoner. Kaag is a vast city; it could take a lifetime to search every vault and chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you wish to search for clues behind the black oak door, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you decide to leave this building and search elsewhere, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Helghast closes for the kill it emits a wailing cry, sending a wave of psychic energy to assail your mind. Your Magnakai defences are more than sufficient to repel this weak attack and, to the creature's visible dismay, you remain unaffected by its initial assault. The Helghast's feral eyes blaze brightly and talons spring from its fingers as, with one last cry, it launches itself towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wracked by fever, you slip reluctantly into a deep unconsciousness. Countless hours slip by while your body battles against the virus. It is a close fight but one that is eventually won thanks to your innate Kai healing skills.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 3 to the number you have picked. The resultant score is equivalent to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost due to the infection.</p>
- <p>Once you have fully recovered, you pause to check your equipment before climbing the steps that lead out of this grim cellar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you strike your killing blow, the body of the Ice Dragon becomes transparent, as if it was made wholly of glass, then slowly this form melts away to a steamy vapour which quickly evaporates, leaving no trace of the creature's existence.</p>
- <p>A deathly silence fills the hall, broken only by the sound of Banedon's laboured breathing. Fearful of his condition, you climb the ivory staircase and rush to his side. However, you are prevented from touching your friend by the encircling wall of energy in which he is held prisoner. You sense that the power which keeps him here against his will is being generated by the crystal sphere which hangs suspended in the air directly above him. You gaze at this sphere and the thought occurs that if you could disrupt it in some way, by breaking or dislodging it, it might cause the power wall to fail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you possess Magi-magic, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you do not wish to use a Bow, do not have any of the above skills, or have yet to reach the required Kai rank, <link-text>turn instead to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you fall, you throw out your hands and manage to grab hold of a thick timber which lies across the gaping hole. Splinters of rotten wood dig deeply into your hands, causing you to cry out in pain (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the discomfort does not cause you to lose your grip. With grim determination, you haul yourself out of the hole and continue across these perilous ruins, taking more care than before as to where you tread.</p>
- <p>Eventually you clear this section of the city and find yourself in the midst of a once-grand building which now lies derelict. Through one of its shattered windows you look out upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen Giak dead. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage street battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a surfeit of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tell you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to stay crouched in the ruins whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt strikes the pool and the inflammable liquid ignites with a deafening <onomatopoeia>whoomph</onomatopoeia> that knocks you flat on your back. For a few seconds the chamber is aglow with a blinding white light, then the glare fades to reveal the octopoid writhing on the floor, close to the blazing pool's edge, its loathsome body being consumed by a hungry mass of guttering yellow flames.</p>
- <p>Covering your mouth with your cloak, you skirt around the burning carcass and approach the archway through the thick smoke. The sheet of blue-green metal that once blocked this exit is no longer there; it has moved aside to reveal a dark tunnel leading away from the chamber. Eager to leave this smoke-filled hall and continue your search for your captive friend without further delay, you hurry through the archway into the darkness beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint across the street and bound up the tower stairs. You are halfway up when suddenly there is a loud <onomatopoeia>clunk</onomatopoeia>, and you look up to see a heavy wooden log, pierced by a criss-cross of metal staves sharpened at either end, come careering down the steps towards you. Frozen with horror, you can but stare at the brutal face of a Drakkar who is peering over the edge of the tower parapet. He guards this feeding tower and, with gleeful expectation, he watches as his <quote>toy</quote>, the great spiked log, bounces on the steps and spins straight towards its latest unsuspecting victim.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A heavy wooden log, pierced by a criss-cross of metal<br />staves, comes careering down the steps towards you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="570"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="570"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If it is 4-9 <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>So we meet again, Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>The words, full of hatred, are spoken by a tall, ancient figure, whose gaunt face is framed by a shock of platinum hair. It is Arch Druid Cadak, ruler of Mogaruith, the leader of the Cener Druids of Ruel.</p>
- <p><quote>What is your purpose here, Cadak?</quote> you growl in reply, your weapon raised in case he or his minions should attempt to rush you.</p>
- <p><quote>I am ruler of this city now. After all, is it not fitting that I should inherit the legacy of the Darklords?</quote> Cadak's whimsical mood seems to change for the worse, a change reflected in his voice.</p>
- <p><quote>Your meddlesome intrusions have cost me dear, Kai Lord,</quote> he hisses. <quote>We have a debt to settle and I intend to make you pay what you owe. I brought you here. It was my purpose. I have no interest in the inferior magic of this fool you call friend,</quote> he says, sneering at Banedon, <quote>yet I knew he would be bait enough to lure you.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly he steps towards the shadows and you tense yourself, fearing an imminent attack.</p>
- <p><quote>Now you will settle your debt&ellips;</quote> he says, almost in a whisper, <quote>once and for all!</quote></p>
- <p>He snaps his fingers and you hear the creak of a heavy iron door slowly opening. Then a low, snorting noise echoes through the pen, stirring the caged Kraan and Zlanbeast to sudden frenzy. You steel yourself and cast your eyes around in a desperate attempt to see what it is that is responsible for this sudden uproar. Then the cause emerges into the light and your blood runs ice cold in your veins when you look upon its terrible face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226"><link-text>Turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the west arch you discover a flight of stairs. Cautiously you ascend several levels of the citadel until the stairs emerge into a vast, frigid hall which is festooned with icy stalactites. In the dim distance you see the yellowy glow of a warmer chamber and you hurry towards it, taking care not to slip on the treacherous, frost-covered floor.</p>
- <p>You are near the centre of this chamber when the temperature drops dramatically. Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the extreme cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">To continue, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dingy stone staircase leads down to an empty torchlit chamber, its floor strewn with filthy straw. To the right there is a stout wooden door secured by a rusty drawbolt, and ahead you see a damp passage. Your Magnakai senses tell you that it heads due south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to take a closer look at the door, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to investigate the passage, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes the tunnel ascends by steps to a cavern-like chamber where the walls are mildewed and damp. A sloping passage leads away to your left, descending towards a distant pit which reeks of vermin and decay. You shun this exit and turn your attentions instead to an iron door set into the far wall. Although it is locked, you experience no difficulty picking it.</p>
- <p>On the other side of the door you discover a torchlit corridor leading off to the left and right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to go right, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you decide to go left, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the fatigue of recent combat, you manage to erect a defensive wall around your mind which protects you from the Vordak's attack. At first their destructive energy is absorbed by this barrier, then it is transformed and cast back at them with twice its original intensity.</p>
- <p>The Vordaks reel under the impact of your psychic retaliation. Before they can fully recover, you run at them and launch yourself into hand-to-hand combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Vordak (in psychic shock)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">28</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel ends at a huge, echoing hall. It was once a place of worship dedicated to Zagarna, Darklord of Kaag. Now, however, it lies in total ruin, having been ransacked and destroyed by those who took command following his destruction, by your hand, at the raising of the Siege of Holmgard.</p>
- <p>In the alcoves and grottoes that adjoin this hall, where once stood effigies of Zagarna, there now stand likenesses of Darklord Slûtar. Behind one such tribute you notice something very unusual, yet familiar. A column of shimmering blue light descends into the alcove from a hole in the middle of the roof and passes through a similar hole in the floor. Your senses tingle as you gaze at this column, for you immediately recognize its purpose. Within the confines of the light, gravity is greatly reduced. It is used as a means of transportation, an elevator that can take you to other levels of Kaag, either above or below. The last time you saw one of these devices was in Helgedad, the former principal stronghold of the Darklands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you wish to step into the transporter beam, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you choose to ignore it, you can leave this ruined hall by means of a tunnel in its north wall. <link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively the Drakkar reacts to the sound of your harsh commands and moves away from the door, a reflexive action born of a lifetime of military service. But then his expression changes when his eyes take in the cut and colour of your tunic and Kai cloak. He hesitates, then quickly snatches up his spear and holds it poised to thrust at your heart.</p>
- <p><quote>An okak oknar?</quote> he growls, demanding to know the name of your leader.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove the item from the satchel and the two guards scrutinize it. Then they nod their approval and draw back their spears. At once the crackling crimson energy ceases to arc between the shafts.</p>
- <p><quote>You may pass,</quote> they say, without any trace of emotion, and as they stand aside, so the two great doors glide silently open. Steeling yourself, you stride towards the blazing purple light which fills the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect62-1-foot" idref="sect62-1">
- <p>Presumably by <quote>double all bonuses it bestows upon you</quote> you are meant to receive a 16 point bonus to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unshoulder your Bow, draw an Arrow, and let it fly towards the chest of the leading Xaghash. The shaft shatters against the iron-hard scales which protect its heart, and the great merciless beast roars with delight at your misfortune.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you retreat, drawing a hand weapon in your defence as the two evil-eyed horrors come rushing forward with murderous intent.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Xaghash</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, double all bonuses it bestows upon you (for the duration of this combat only).<a id="sect62-1" idref="sect62-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the treacherous condition of the tower wall, your natural skill and agility see you safely to the top. In less than a minute you manage to reach the level of the tower parapet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the passage and follow it for several minutes before arriving at an empty circular room. The only feature here is a rusty iron ladder, fixed precariously to the wall, which ascends through a hole in the ceiling to a level above. There is no other exit from this chamber and so, with caution guiding your every move, you climb the rust-eaten rungs.</p>
- <p>You rise through the hole to find yourself in a corridor which is strewn with human bones. Skeletons lie mixed in tangled heaps and many of the skulls and loose bones seem to have been gnawed. The psychic residues of pain and terror left by these luckless victims presses in upon your senses, making you feel queasy and claustrophobic. With pounding heart you advance along the bone-choked passage, stepping carefully through the skeletons to avoid making a sound. But you have taken less than a dozen steps when something unexpected makes you freeze in your tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn and enter a rubble-strewn alley which takes you deeper into the black heart of Kaag. A mile later you reach a broader street, partially submerged by brackish, ankle-deep slime. Beyond it, at a deserted square, you see a tangle of rusty iron pipes spilling out from a circular shaft in the ground. Jets of steam hiss skywards from a thousand tiny cracks in these old corroded conduits. Nearby, in the ruins, a guttering fire casts an eerie yellow light over the area. Shadows play upon the surrounding walls, cast not only by the fire but also by the winged Kraan which swoop back and forth across this square, dousing themselves in the jets of scalding-hot steam.</p>
- <p>You are watching the Kraan diving and twisting above the rooftops when suddenly your Magnakai sense of Divination alerts you to an imminent danger. You can sense the approach of a hostile creature, one which is using its psychic power to scan the surrounding area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to avoid this creature by entering one of the ruined buildings that border the square, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you decide to hurry away from the square, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push down on the Zlanbeast's head and send it into a steep dive, a swift action which saves you from being knocked out of the sky by the cloud of deadly bolts. The streets of Kaag come rushing towards you with unnerving speed, but you control the winged creature skilfully, reining it in to level off in time to clear the ramparts of the South Gate. As you pass over this gate you catch sight of something strange yet wondrous to behold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push aside the last remaining Drakkar and rush out into the passageway. At the far end you find a door which leads to a covered courtyard. A group of Drakkarim stablehands are sent sprawling as you career through them and sprint towards a low wall which encircles this part of the complex. Without looking back, you leap over the wall in one bound and race into the ruins beyond.</p>
- <p>For over a mile you wend your way through derelict buildings before you happen upon an avenue which is surprisingly clear of debris and obstructions. You are conscious that perhaps it is too clear, offering you no cover at all from the tall buildings that line this route to the centre of Kaag.</p>
- <p>You decide to trust to the ruins rather than run the risk of being detected out in the open. However, within a matter of minutes you are confronted by a new hazard. The ground in this section of the city is unsafe. It is riddled with pot-holes and concealed cellars, covered by rotten wooden beams and slabs of paper-thin plaster. Suddenly one such section gives way beneath your feet and you find yourself falling headlong into coal-black darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry away from the dead Drakkarim and enter a tunnel which is dank and humid. You have taken less than a dozen paces when suddenly your senses alert you to a crude floor trap. A pit of poison-tipped stakes, concealed beneath a large square of oiled cloth, blocks the tunnel ahead. What would normally have ensnared a lesser warrior causes you little worry. With a single bound you clear the pit and continue on your way.</p>
- <p>Soon the tunnel leads to another hall, but the entrance is blocked by a huge stone statue of Zagarna which has been tipped on to its side. The statue must have shattered on impact for the tunnel exit is almost filled with large boulders. In order to gain access to the hall beyond, you must first clear away some of this heavy debris.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now subtract 1 from the number you have picked. The resultant score equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost due to fatigue. (If you picked 0 or 1, your score is zero.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move back a few feet and raise your right hand, pointing your finger at the glowing sphere. Then you utter the words of power that you learned from the man who you are seeking to set free, and at once your whole hand is encased by a crackling blue-white fire. A jolt runs the length of your arm and a bolt of energy leaps from your index finger towards the sphere.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect120">If your score is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leather Drakkar battle jacket and leggings fit easily over your close-fitting Kai tunic. The jacket has a large hood, with slits cut for your eyes and mouth, and you pull this down to cover your whole face. You stow your Backpack in a canvas satchel and sling this over your shoulder before opening the door and setting off towards the distant thoroughfare.</p>
- <p>You stride boldly towards the two guards, hoping they will let you pass unhindered. But as you draw closer, they cross their jewel-encrusted spears to block your way. Raw power crackles like a sparkling crimson serpent where the shafts of the two spears touch, warning you that these are no ordinary weapons.</p>
- <p><quote>What is your business here?</quote> growls the guard on the left, his voice gritty and full of suspicion. <quote>Why do you seek access to the Hall of Unholy Worship?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you possess the Disciplines of Kai-surge <em>and</em> Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not possess <em>both</em> of these Grand Master skills, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An arrow gouges your heel and a sharp pain runs up the back of your leg, making you stumble. You struggle to stay on your feet but the weight of your unconscious friend throws you off-balance and together you crash down on the steps in a heap. The Drakkarim howl with delight and, as you pull yourself free, they fire a final volley of arrows.</p>
- <p>There is a flash of light and a blinding pain fills your head, but this is soon replaced by a total blackness. You feel yourself falling forwards into an infinite void, as if you had just stepped over the edge of a towering cliff. Reluctantly you surrender to the sensation for it is the last you will ever feel.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Painfully you stagger to your feet and shake your head in a vain attempt to be rid of the loud ringing that now fills your ears. Through the smoke and dust generated by the explosion, you glimpse the hooded creature creeping towards you. He holds a rod before him which radiates a ghostly green light. You snatch up your weapon and prepare to do battle as your robed enemy raises this rod in readiness to strike you down. Then there is a crack of energy and, as the rod whistles towards your chest, the tip transforms itself into a fiery spiked ball.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A hooded creature creeps towards you holding a rod<br />which radiates a ghostly green light.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="609"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="609"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Liganim (with Ziranakag)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The weakest area appears to be the creature's throat, where the horny chest plates butt against the bony cartilage which protects its windpipe. You whisper a prayer to the God Kai to guide your Arrow as you let slip your straining bowstring.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Weaponmastery with Bow, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">If your total score is 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the words of the Brotherhood spell <quote>Invisible Shield</quote> and feel a chill as some of your body warmth surges from your trunk towards your outstretched hand. Hurriedly you circle your palm in the air before you, barely moments before the Death Knights let loose a volley of deadly bolts.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (in this instance, 0 = 10). If you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If your total score is 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If your score is 3&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Undaunted and undeterred by the charm that has been placed on this door, you settle down in front of the keyhole and set about picking the lock. More than once you wish that Banedon was fit and conscious; he would have no difficulty opening this door.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you have Grand Pathsmanship, add 2. If you have Telegnosis, add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you land your killing blow, the Nadziran vanishes completely, leaving only a harsh, caustic stench to mark its passing. You sheathe your weapon and hurry through the open portal into a well-appointed chamber, its many tables and shelves filled with flasks, bottles and boxes of unique design. To your left you notice an oaken shelf sagging under the weight of three large, heavily bound books, and to your right there is a workbench stacked high with magical paraphernalia.</p>
- <p>A search of this chamber uncovers the following items which may be of use to you during your quest:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Tinderbox</li>
- <li>Laumspur (enough for 3 doses&emdash;each dose restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points after combat)</li>
- <li>Vial of Gold Dust</li>
- <li>Conch Shell</li>
- <li>Silver Flask</li>
- <li>Green Key</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- <li>Copper Key</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Comb</li>
- </ul>
- <p>All of the above are Backpack Items. If you decide to keep any, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">To continue, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Biting back your fears, you raise your weapon and focus on the advancing swarm. Suddenly your psychic senses tingle. These are no ordinary insects; in fact these are not insects at all. Your sixth sense detects that they are merely a clever illusion created to deceive you. Confident in this knowledge you stand your ground and allow the tide of creepy-crawlies to wash over your feet. Within a matter of seconds the insect horde fades and vanishes, dispelled by your disbelief in their existence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon the instant you strike your killing blow, the Korozon disintegrates. Within seconds, all that remains of this fearsome creature is a dusty, foul-smelling pile of dull grey tiles and shattered glass.</p>
- <p>Covering your mouth with your cloak, you skirt around the remains and approach the archway. The sheet of blue-green metal that once blocked this exit is no longer there; it has moved aside to reveal a dark tunnel leading away from the chamber. Eager to leave this foul-smelling hall and continue your search for your captive friend without further delay, you hurry through the archway into the unwelcoming darkness beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your final blow parts the head of the ghastly Vordak, it collapses at your feet and rapidly dissolves into a foul-smelling green gas. Mindful that the combat may have attracted others of its kind, you sheathe your weapon and escape from the area as quickly as you can. At the end of the street you see an avenue leading off to the south, and another, blocked by rubble, heading off to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to follow the avenue southwards, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you choose to clamber over the rubble which fills the entrance to the west avenue, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry out of the building and descend to the alley below. When the coast is clear you cross the street and follow a passage which takes you further south, towards the centre of this hellish metropolis.</p>
- <p>Everywhere there is decay and dereliction. Once-grand buildings lie in ruins and every surface is beslimed with nameless refuse. Soon you happen upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen Giak dead. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a surfeit of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tell you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to crouch in a darkened doorway for cover whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your right index finger at the creature's ugly head. You feel your arm tingling from the shoulder down, then a crackling mass of energy takes form at your fingertip. With a loud crack it arcs towards the oncoming beast and explodes full in its face, making it falter and cry out in pained surprise. But it does not delay its advance for very long. Its horny eyelids save its sight and quickly it recovers, now more determined to fulfil Cadak's command. Hastily you draw a hand weapon as the shadow of the beast falls upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel descends, by slope and staircase, deeper into the bowels of the citadel. In the distance you see a torchlit chamber and hear the sound of Giaks screaming in agony. As you draw closer to the room, your suspicions are confirmed that you have stumbled upon a torture chamber.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The Drakkarim torturers are too preoccupied with the mutilation of their charges to notice you slipping through their grisly workplace to the tunnel beyond. This leads to a large stairwell from where you can see many levels, above and below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you wish to ascend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you choose to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a hundred yards or so, the passage bears to the left then continues in a straight line until it arrives at a small stone-walled chamber. A crude cot, a chair, a battered trunk and a three-legged table made from a captured Freeland battleshield comprise its meagre furnishings. You stop to rest here for a few minutes, placing Banedon upon the cot while you half-heartedly search the trunk. Your curiosity is rewarded though, for inside you discover half a bottle of fine Slovian wine and a pouch full of Laumspur. You consume these (restore 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and, suitably refreshed, you shoulder your charge and set off along the passage in search of a way to escape from this dread citadel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290"><link-text>Turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your skill and experience to mask your presence here in the ruins. The Vordak, using its psychic ability, scans the surrounding buildings yet fails to locate your hiding place. With a shriek of frustration, the loathsome creature turns and retreats from the square with its bow-legged Giak followers in tow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to return to the street and continue your exploration of Kaag, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you choose to stay in the ruins and proceed in a different direction, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than twenty yards ahead the street bears sharply to the right. You slow your pace and get ready to make the turn, but you are brought skidding to a halt when you see that the street goes nowhere. It is a dead end. A solid wall of black marble, thirty feet high, blocks your escape from the pursuing Death Knights.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Reluctantly you turn to face your foes. Having reached the junction and seen that you are trapped, they have spread out and are now walking slowly towards you in a line abreast. Casually they unshoulder their crossbows and prepare them as they advance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you possess the Discipline of Assimilance, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you have neither of these skills, or do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Anxious to make up for lost time, you turn away from the altar and hurry through the archway opposite. Beyond lies an icy-cold corridor where the walls and ceilings are carved with many strange spatial designs. As you follow this passage, you notice that the theme of planets and stars gradually changes to one of volcanoes and lava fissures. As if to mirror this the temperature also changes, becoming steadily hotter and drier until, by the time you finally near the corridor's end, the heat has become almost furnace-like in intensity. Breathless and bathed with sweat, you stare through the shimmering air and see a great iron door at the end of the passage.</p>
- <p>Due to the excessive heat, unless you possess the Disciplines of Grand Huntmastery and Grand Nexus, you must now consume a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flames lessen and, as the heat subsides, you lower your cloak and stare with trepidation at the sealed archway.</p>
- <p><quote>He who does not serve&ellips;</quote> booms the voice, menacingly, <quote>shall not live.</quote></p>
- <p>With a startling abruptness, there is a loud <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia>. Chunks of mortar fall from the octopoid mosaic above the archway and, to your mounting horror, you watch as the eyes of the creature begin to glow with a baleful green light.</p>
- <p>Like a waking goliath, the mosaic comes slowly to life. Mesmerized by its pulsating gaze, you barely step back in time to save yourself when its tile-encrusted tentacles burst from the wall and come writhing towards your head. You lash out at the flailing limbs but your blow glances off the armour-like skin, inflicting no more than a scratch upon the tiled hide of this supernatural creature. The tentacles move apart briefly to reveal once more the two glowing green orbs. Then a wave of psychic energy buffets your mind, designed to weaken and subdue you, but your Magnakai defences deflect this attack. You sense that the creature is surprised by your natural resistance and, before it can muster its powers to launch a second, far stronger psychic blast, you leap forward and aim a blow between its evil green eyes. You are within an arm's length of striking the creature's bulbous head when suddenly it squirts a stream of clear liquid from its beak aimed directly at your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you possess mastery of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swallowing your fears of what may lie ahead, you descend the ridge and approach the great, frowning bastions of Kaag. Through the swirling dust you see a wide road that leads to the North Gate, its surface littered with Giak corpses, bleached bones and rusted weapons. Crab-like scavengers scuttle among the debris, fighting for scraps to feed their young, which nest in thousands of empty skulls half-buried in the ground.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Shielded from detection by the storm and your Kai skills, you reach the breached wall unobserved. Swiftly you climb over the huge mound of rubble, which is all that remains of this section of the curtain-wall, and find yourself in a street lined with decaying hovels and ugly, squat towers. A dun pall of smoke hovers above this thoroughfare and the air reeks of iron and sulphurous smoke. At the far end of the street you see a ragged group of Giaks, led by two Drakkarim warriors, suddenly emerge from an alley. They stop for a few moments as if to catch their breath, then one of the Drakkarim barks an order and they take off at a lumbering pace, heading south. You notice that their tattered, orange-coloured uniforms all bear the emblem of a scythe with a bloodied blade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you wish to follow these troops, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If you choose to avoid them by heading in the opposite direction, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and steel yourself to fight the approaching beast. The boar-thing comes bounding on to the drawbridge, its red-rimmed jaws agape and its great curved tusks glinting evilly in the fires of the moat. Defiantly you shout your battle-cry and step forwards to meet its advance.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The boar-thing bounds onto the draw bridge,<br />red-rimmed jaws agape and curved tusks glinting.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="635"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="635"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Gnagusk</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai mastery, you focus upon one of the five feeding Kraan, the only one which is equipped with a saddle and reins. The other four abandon their feast and take to the air as you approach, but the target of your attention remains on the roof, cowed and submissive to your psychic command.</p>
- <p>You approach this scaly beast confidently and climb into its saddle. Obediently it obeys when, with a kick of your heels, you urge it skywards. Its powerful wings bear you speedily towards the landing platforms situated high above the great north door and, as you fly closer to your destination, you see two which are open and unguarded. One has an arch-shaped portal, the other a wider, oblong-shaped entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to land at the platform with the arch-shaped portal, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you choose to land upon the platform with the oblong-shaped entrance, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flaming Arrow strikes the creature in the centre of its chest but causes it no harm. With a dull <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia> the tip snaps off and the shaft ricochets away. There is no time now for a second shot so you hurriedly shoulder your Bow and draw a hand weapon ready. Sensing victory within its grasp, the creature emits a gurgling shriek and comes bounding forwards. You get ready to meet its advance but, when it is only ten feet away, it suddenly opens its mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few yards of the passage which leads out of the pen when suddenly the dogs begin howling in alarm.</p>
- <p><quote>Intruder!</quote> screams one of the handlers, and points accusingly at your back. In an instant your weapon is in your hand and you spin on your heel, ready for combat.</p>
- <p>The handlers jump to their feet and fumble for their weapons as they scramble to attack you.</p>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry as they approach, then launch yourself at them in a determined counterattack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim handlers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">35</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your powerful senses warn you that the entrance to a secret chamber lies directly behind the threadbare tapestry. You sense also that this concealed place harbours a magical being who, at present, is unaware that you have entered the crypt. Forewarned by your Kai skills, you step behind the chair and quietly unsheathe your weapon, using it to push aside the tapestry. You reveal a secret door which you know to be unlocked. Beyond it your acute hearing detects the sound of a voice, distinctly non-human, muttering the words of an evil incantation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you wish to use your advantage of surprise, you can burst into the secret room and launch a lightning attack. <link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you choose to avoid a confrontation, you can leave the crypt by <link-text>turning to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a moment of vivid realization your Kai senses inform you that this creature is unaffected by normal missiles, yet it is specially vulnerable to fire. Hastily you replace your Arrow in your Quiver and search instead for something capable of igniting a fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess a Lantern, a Torch, or a Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you do not possess any of these items, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and support your friend with your free hand. You tell him what you have sensed, that there is a strong chance that an ambush awaits you in the pen, but he agrees with you that a sudden rush towards the landing platform stands a good chance of success. Then, with a nod of your head, you indicate the Zlanbeast that is perched outside on the platform and whisper to Banedon that that particular creature is the one that will soon be carrying you out of Kaag. He nods his approval and you get ready to enter the pen.</p>
- <p>You have taken less than five steps towards the platform when an unexpected sound makes you look up. To your horror, you see a weighted net falling from the ceiling directly on to your heads.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your skill, you will the gigantic Doomwolf to return to sleep. At first it tries to resist, but soon it succumbs to your psychic command and settles down to sleep once more on its bed of filthy straw.</p>
- <p>Rather than attempt to force the door open, you cross the room and investigate its solitary window. It is criss-crossed with iron bars, but on closer examination you discover they are loose and badly corroded. A swift blow with the heels of your hands is enough to dislodge them, allowing you to escape with ease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your throw goes awry. The weapon hits the crystal, but it only grazes its surface before falling to the floor. Cursing your aim, you retrieve your weapon and try once again.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If your total score is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After what seems like an eternity, the guards draw back their spears and at once the crackling crimson energy ceases to arc between the shafts.</p>
- <p><quote>You may pass,</quote> they say, without any trace of emotion, and as they stand aside, so the two great doors glide silently open. Steeling yourself, you stride towards the blazing purple light which fills the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you unshoulder your Bow, but as you are drawing an Arrow to your lips, the Akataz rips free of the curtain and comes leaping at your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the skill of Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If your score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the rubble you discover a large chamber fashioned from great blocks of polished blue-green stone. At the centre of this eerie hall there lies an oval pool of water, the surface of which appears to be alight with a myriad of tiny, pale green flames. The flames shed light on the surrounding walls but generate no heat.</p>
- <p>As you approach the pool, you see a mosaic of glittering stones set high upon the far wall. They have been fixed to depict the shape of an octopus-like creature with two bulging eyes, a hooked beak, and twelve snaky tentacles. Directly below this mosaic is an archway which is sealed by a featureless sheet of solid blue-green metal.</p>
- <p>Your senses tingle in response to the aura of magic that saturates this chamber. Fearful of what may lurk here, you unsheathe your weapon and hold it in readiness for your defence. For a moment the light of the pool flickers and the flames waver from side to side, as if disturbed by the passage of an invisible hand. Then, from the sealed archway, there issues forth a deep, resonant voice.</p>
- <p><thought>Which Darklord of Kaag do you call master?</thought> booms the disembodied voice. <thought>Zagarna or Slûtar?</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you wish to answer <quote>Zagarna</quote>, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you decide to answer <quote>Slûtar</quote>, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you choose not to answer at all, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ashradon comes crashing to the ground with a tremendous noise. Its crumpled wings collide with one of the braziers, knocking it over and scattering glowing coals the length of the hall. One of these coals sets alight the sleeve of Banedon's robe, and you have to act quickly to extinguish the flames before he is badly burned.</p>
- <p>Once more you heave your friend across your shoulders, then you hurry out of the hall and follow the tunnel for almost a mile before you reach a chamber where eight smaller passages disappear off in all directions. You scan these exits and a familiar fear returns to haunt you, a fear that you will never find your way out of Kaag alive.</p>
- <p>Using your innate healing skills, you try once more to revive Banedon. You remember once, during a tutorial at the Kai monastery, that Banedon conjured up a vision of the monastery and its surrounding estates. You were able to see yourself in miniature, standing in your chambers as if you were a tiny animated doll in a doll's house. If he were able to perform that spell here in Kaag, you might well be able to locate your position and plan a route of escape.</p>
- <p>Mustering your skills, you place your hands on Banedon's chest and transmit your power directly into his heart. (Reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by 3 points.) Gradually he stirs to consciousness and, as his strength returns, rekindled by your healing power, he is able to grant your request. On the floor of the chamber he calls forth a living, three-dimensional vision of Kaag. Gradually this vision expands until you are looking at yourselves, kneeling on the floor of a chamber on one of the upper levels of the central citadel. The vision blurs and fades, but not before you are able to trace the quickest way out of this dreadful place.</p>
- <p>The passage that heads due south from this chamber leads directly to the Zlanbeast pens and landing platforms situated on the exterior wall of the citadel, high above the great South Gate. It is from here that you plan to escape, leaving the citadel the same way you entered it: by air.</p>
- <p>Confident that the success of your quest is now within your grasp, you help Banedon to his feet and support him as you make your way along the south passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your dismay the Arrow glances off the creature's tusk and arcs harmlessly into the air. With only seconds to go before the beast falls upon you, you drop your Bow and reach to unsheathe your weapon. The Bow tumbles off the bridge (erase this from your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>) and you curse its loss as you get ready to fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnagusk</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stream of flame catches you full in the face and knocks you sprawling to the ground. Unfortunately your Magnakai skill of Nexus is not effective enough to save you completely from the effects of this super-hot fire: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you have survived this wounding, you must face the creature; <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expecting the unexpected, you enter a rubble-strewn alley which takes you deeper into the black heart of Kaag. A mile later you reach a broader street, partially submerged by brackish, ankle-deep slime. Beyond it, at a deserted square, you see a tangle of rusty iron pipes spilling out from a circular shaft in the ground. Jets of steam hiss skywards from a thousand tiny cracks in these corroded conduits. Nearby, in the ruins, a guttering fire casts an eerie yellow light over the area. Shadows play upon the surrounding walls, cast not only by the fire but also by the winged Kraan which swoop back and forth across this square, dousing themselves in the jets of scalding-hot steam.</p>
- <p>You are watching the Kraan diving and twisting above the rooftops when suddenly your Magnakai sense of Divination alerts you to imminent danger. You can sense the approach of a hostile creature, one which is using its psychic power to scan the surrounding area.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to avoid this creature by entering one of the ruined buildings which border the square, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you decide to hurry away from this square, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aching with battle fatigue and the pain of your wounds, you stumble and fall to your knees before the mighty Zavaghar. Cadak laughs like a madman and screams for his creature to finish you off quickly. The beast rises up on its hind legs in readiness to strike you a killing blow, but suddenly, as it reaches its full height, its limbs and torso become stiff and its movements jerky.</p>
- <p><thought>Slay the beast, Lone Wolf!</thought> whispers Banedon, the words forming in your mind. <thought>I cannot hold it for long.</thought></p>
- <p>You glance to where your friend is lying and see that his trembling hand is stretched out towards the towering Zavaghar. Inspired by his courageousness, you shake off your fatigue and rush forwards to plunge your weapon deep into the exposed belly of the beast, striking it a mortal wound barely moments before Banedon's spell of <spell>Holding</spell> fails.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The temperature rises steadily the deeper you descend this flight of stairs, causing you to give thanks to your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus which is sparing you any pain or discomfort. The stairs end at a chamber constructed of stones which radiate a deep purplish light. It is furnished with tables, chairs, draperies and carpets, all of a similar hue.</p>
- <p>You are crossing the floor on your way towards a tunnel-like exit on the far side, when suddenly a secret panel opens in the wall and from out of the darkness step two horny-skinned creatures which you recognize immediately. They are Xaghash, brutish lesser Darklords, implacable servants of the evil God Naar.</p>
- <p>They are busily arguing with each other as they lumber into this chamber, and both of them fail to see you at first. But suddenly their senses detect the presence of your pure spirit, and it stirs them to a fearful fury. With frightening ease they hurl aside heavy furniture in their eagerness to attack you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai senses warn you that the left road leads to a dead end. Without hesitation, you turn right and take off along the street at a steady pace.</p>
- <p>Although the Death Knights are hot on your heels, you are confident that you will soon outrun them. However, your confidence is severely shaken when you see that the way ahead is blocked by a hill of rubble, the remains of a collapsed watchtower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian in the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you have yet to reach this level of Kai Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move back a few feet from the power wall then look up and focus all your attention upon the sphere. Silently you mouth the words of the Elder Magi battle-spell <spell>Splinter</spell> and, with a blink of your eyes, you project its energy at the centre of the glassy orb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 14 or less, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If your score is 15 or more, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai skills keep you safe from detection and enable you to cross the Akataz pen unseen. Quietly you enter the deserted passage beyond and press on with your search for Banedon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you sprint towards the beckoning safety of the cooler tunnel section, you trip and stumble headlong to the floor. Your hands and knees are burnt by rough contact with the red-hot metal, leaving them badly blistered: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When finally you reach the cooler section, you happen upon a steep staircase, set into the right-hand wall, which ascends to a hall on the level above. This vault-like room contains a wealth of grim exhibits, hung upon the walls and displayed in glass-fronted cases. The skulls of rare creatures are displayed beside tanned hides and jewel-encrusted bones. One item in particular catches your eye: it is a statuette, fashioned in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry your maximum quota, you must discard one item in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">To continue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar hits the cobblestones head-first, the impact leaving him stunned but not unconscious. Groaning loudly, he crawls around on all fours, fumbling to find a whistle that is dangling from a chain around his neck. You know you must do something to stop him; it will only be a matter of seconds before he locates it and raises the alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you do not, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are struggling to recover your footing when you hear the metallic <onomatopoeia>twang</onomatopoeia> of a crossbow's drawstring, and feel something hard punch you squarely in the middle of your back. Fortunately, your Backpack has spared you from a fatal wound.</p>
- <p>Driven by fear, you recover your footing and force yourself to the top of the mound. Only when you crest the summit and slide down the far side do you realize that the bolt has damaged one of your Backpack Items beyond repair.</p>
- <p>Erase the item noted as No. 3 on your current list of Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">To continue, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have only just re-entered the chamber when a second bolt slams into the arch of the tunnel. The blast and concussion throws you off-balance and, together with Banedon, you crash headlong to the floor: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The fall revives Banedon and, although he is still far too weak to speak or walk, he manages to open his eyes and communicate with you telepathically.</p>
- <p><thought>I know this chamber&ellips;</thought> he says, <thought>&ellips;I have been here before. Look there, at the statue opposite. You'll find a lever concealed at its side. It opens a hidden door. Hurry&ellips;</thought></p>
- <p>Guided by Banedon's messages you discover that there is indeed a lever as he described. You pull it and a panel in the stone wall glides open to reveal a secret alcove and a flight of steps leading down. The sound of running feet warns you that the enemy are approaching along both passages, and so, without hesitation, you shoulder your friend once more and hurry into the alcove to avoid them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull a wooden bung from one of the casks and cautiously sniff the contents. It contains a strong, foul-smelling spirit that tightens your throat and makes your eyes water, prompting you to discard it as quickly as possible. The boxes and sacks yield little of value; however, in one trunk you find the following items which may be of some use during your quest:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Lantern</li>
- <li>Silver Bowl</li>
- <li>Whistle</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- <li>Black Key</li>
- <li>Hammer</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, remember to record them as Backpack Items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">To continue, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stairs seem to go on forever. You lose count of the number of levels through which you ascend and, after an hour of relentless climbing, you feel the need for rest and refreshment. Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Eventually the stairs end at a tunnel which leads to a hall. However, you cannot enter this hall because it is blocked by a huge stone statue which has been tipped on to its side. The statue must have shattered on impact, for the tunnel exit is almost filled with large boulders. The thought of having to descend the stairs you have just laboured up fills you with dread, but in order to gain access to the hall beyond you must first clear away some of the heavy debris.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now subtract 1 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <p>The resultant score equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost due to fatigue. (If you picked 0 or 1, your score is zero.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect100">To continue, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize the glassy orb which rests upon the altar. It is identical to the sphere you saw in the chamber of Arch Druid Cadak in Mogaruith, the sphere by which he communicated with the master of all evil&emdash;the evil God Naar. With dread, you look upon the surface of the orb and your blood runs cold; it is as if the eye of the Dark God himself were gazing upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you wish to attempt to destroy this sphere, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you choose to flee from this temple as quickly as you can, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You duck your head and the cube passes harmlessly over your shoulder to smash against the wall behind. On impact there is a tremendous flash and an explosion which releases a gout of searing flame. Needle-sharp slivers of stone pepper your back, but your quick reflexes have saved you from sustaining fatal injuries. Lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">To continue, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swiftly catch up with the fleeing Vordak and draw your weapon in readiness to cut it down. The creature glances over its shoulder and, as you strike out at its skull-like head, it raises an iron mace in an attempt to parry the blow. It manages to deflect your attack, but you quickly raise your weapon to strike again.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">22</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win this combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or longer, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Drakkarim falls to your deadly blows, his outstretched hand grabs at your tunic and holds on with a vice-like grip. In order to free yourself you are forced to prise back the fingers one by one, mindful all the while of the Drakkarim squad who are arming themselves in readiness to attack.</p>
- <p>As you disentangle the last two fingers you notice a chain bracelet dangling from the dead warrior's wrist. A polished key is fixed to this chain. (If you wish to keep this Brass Key, record it as a Backpack Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>With the angry screams of the Drakkarim echoing in your ears, you leap over the body of the slain warrior and sprint along the passage beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your spell causes the sphere to vibrate uncontrollably. Tiny cracks appear in its crystal surface then, with a flash of sparks, it breaks cleanly in two. At once the shimmering wall of light which imprisons Banedon flickers, then disappears completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Kraan glides towards the semicircular platform, you swing one leg over its neck and get ready to leap from the saddle the moment it lands. With cat-like agility, you jump the last remaining few feet on to the platform and run through the open archway. Two Drakkarim Kraan-handlers suddenly appear before you, but your quick wits and Kai camouflage skills keep you from being seen. As the handlers walk out on to the platform to tend to the screeching Kraan, you run towards the rear of the pen where a spiral staircase leads off to levels above and below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you wish to ascend the stairs to the level above, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you choose to descend the stairs to the level below, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rejoin your physical body barely seconds before the creature attacks, but the suddenness of such a swift transition leaves you trembling with psychic shock: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Shakily you draw your weapon as the boar-thing comes bounding towards you, its mouth agape and its great curved tusks glinting evilly in the fire of the moat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnagusk</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Skilfully you tail the group, using the cover of doorways and debris to hide your presence as you move through a maze of streets and alleyways. At length you reach a wide avenue bisected by a dead river of salty, acid water. The group cross this foul stream by a bridge, then enter a two-storey, flat-roofed building which is guarded by other Giaks, wearing similar orange-patched uniforms. In the distance you can hear the faint sounds of battle.</p>
- <p>Patiently you observe the building and its Giak guards. The front door appears to be well defended, but there is another entrance, at the end of an alley which runs alongside the building, that looks to be unguarded. An iron stair ascends to this entrance on the upper floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you wish to investigate this second entrance, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you do not wish to approach this building, you can leave this section of Kaag by <link-text>turning to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Directly across the street from where you are hiding, you see a square, flat-roofed tower, one of several which encircle the outer edge of the concourse. A flock of screeching Kraan are feeding on slabs of maggoty meat which have been left there by the Drakkarim guards. Once they have eaten their fill, they take to the air and return to their cave-like pens, located high up on the citadel's outer wall. Some of the returning Kraan are ridden by Drakkarim and other guards who steer their mounts towards landing platforms which jut like great steel tongues from the entrances to the pens.</p>
- <p>It occurs to you that if you were able to mount one of the feeding Kraan, you could attempt to enter the citadel by the very same route.</p>
- <p>Emboldened by your plan, you resolve to put it into action. Patiently you survey the feeding tower opposite and note that there are two ways to gain access to its roof. You could climb a staircase that runs directly from the street to the roof, or you could attempt to scale its wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you replace your Arrow and shoulder your Bow. Sensing victory within its grasp, the creature emits a gurgling shriek and comes bounding forwards. You get ready to meet its advance but, when it is only ten feet away, it suddenly opens its mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The further you explore along this tunnel, so the sense of impending doom becomes greater. Although the plain grey walls, ceiling, and floor of this passage appear featureless and ordinary, you are soon brought to a halt by the overwhelming presentiment of danger. Instinctively you reach for your weapon, but before your hand tightens around it, a slick syrupy sound draws your eyes to the arched ceiling above.</p>
- <p>Fear stabs like an ice-cold spike in your heart when you see three jelly-like discs peel away from the roof and come plummeting down towards your head. Each of the rubbery discs has two sets of snake-like fangs which trail sticky yellow venom. At once you recognize these deadly creatures: they are Plaak, live instruments of assassination employed by the Nadziranim.</p>
- <p>Desperate to avoid their venomous fangs, you hurl yourself backwards and crash heavily to the ground. Breathlessly you unsheathe your weapon and get ready to defend yourself as the loathsome Plaak bounce off the floor and come arching through the air towards your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Plaak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">39</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are immune to all forms of psychic attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">You may evade this combat after three rounds by <link-text>turning to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect127-1-foot" idref="sect127-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step warily into the glimmering column of light and immediately feel yourself begin to rise. Bands of darkness flick past with growing rapidity, each one marking a passing level of this mountainous citadel. Then you feel yourself slowing to a halt. The column fades and you find yourself standing on a metal dais in the centre of a domed chamber. Ahead you see a great door, forged of Kagonite, and beside it there is a narrow staircase leading downwards.</p>
- <p>As you approach the door, you notice the lock which secures it. It is inlaid with a series of numbers and, at once, you recognize that they are component parts of a combination lock. One number in the sequence is missing. By tapping the correct number upon the blank square, you will cause the lock to disengage.</p>
- <p>Study the following sequence of numbers carefully. When you think you know what the missing number is, turn to the page that is identical to your answer.<a id="sect127-1" idref="sect127-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
-<illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect127.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect127.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you guess incorrectly, or if you cannot answer the puzzle, <link-text>turn instead to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a manic cry, the creature lunges at your head in an attempt to impale you upon its shovel-like teeth. You sidestep the attack and lash out at its throat before it can dodge your blow. You strike and open a gash in the leathery hide, but it is shallow and does not deter the beast from launching a second attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zavaghar</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect105">If, during this fight, your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to below 12 points, do not continue the combat. <link-text>Turn instead to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> remains at 12 points or above and you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your Magnakai skill of Kai-screen to mask your presence here in the ruins, but the Vordak detects a mental resistance where there should be none. It shrieks an unearthly cry and at once the troop of Giaks respond by drawing their swords and charging towards your hiding place.</p>
- <p>Confident of success, you emerge from the shattered building and challenge your enemy&emdash;six Giaks and their Vordak lieutenant&emdash;to combat on the street bordering the square.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vordak & Giak patrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of nausea drops you to your knees and at once you sense that the ghoulish creature has infected you with a virulent virus, which passed into your body the moment it scratched your face. Hurriedly you draw on your Magnakai Discipline of Curing in an attempt to counter this insidious threat, but already the virus has spread throughout your bloodstream. Shaking and sweating profusely, you keel over and fall flat on your back as a second wave of nausea and weakness robs you of your strength to resist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you possess some Oede, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Arrow hits the centre of the sphere, but the shock of impact is not sufficient to dislodge it. The power wall imprisoning Banedon remains intact and you are forced to try some other way of freeing him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you possess Magi-magic, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you do not have either of the above Disciplines, or have yet to reach the required Kai rank, <link-text>turn instead to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Defiantly you face the Helghast, your weapon at your side. The creature looks upon you and sneers, revealing two sharp fangs which protude from its lower jaw. It emits a chilling cackle, full of hatred and contempt, and its eyes blaze like hot coals as it confidently quickens its gait. You focus on its ghastly visage and muster all your strength to summon a pulse of psychic energy. The pulse forms an invisible ball of power which speeds across the hall and slams into the head of the approaching Helghast. The concussive force of this psychic attack lifts the creature bodily into the air and sends it tumbling, like some hideous rag doll, backwards into the flame-filled moat.</p>
- <p>As the last shriek of the doomed creature echoes through the hall, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the all-consuming fire. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, but years of fierce battle discipline soon override their anxiety and, like two automatons, they raise their swords and continue to advance towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Veterans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon you arrive at a circular chamber. There is a huge hole in the roof and another hole, equally large, in the middle of the floor. Carefully you approach the perimeter of this hole and stare down into a deep, dark shaft. It passes through countless levels of the citadel, below and above. The edge of the shaft is overgrown with ivy-like creepers, and a tangle of thorny vines hang down from the levels high above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you wish to climb these vines to another level of the citadel, above the one you are currently on, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you choose to ignore the shaft and continue along an adjoining tunnel, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of <spell>Counterspell</spell> and instantly the wall of crackling energy is dispelled. Moments later the Liganim wands explode with a tremendous flash, killing their wielders. Unfortunately for them, your counterspell reversed the latent energy of their wands, causing them to overload and self-destruct.</p>
- <p>The noise of the dual explosions freezes the escaping Liganim dead in his tracks. He spins around in the archway, his ugly face transfixed into a mask of sheer terror as he watches you come racing towards him with your weapon poised to strike. The sight is too much for his weak heart which ceases to beat moments before you land your blow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow drills into the warhound's shoulder, but it does not stop the beast's attack. Oblivious to the pain it leaps upon you, knocking you down, its fang-filled jaws snapping within inches of your unprotected face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akataz (<em>wounded</em>)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This war-dog is especially susceptible to psychic attack. If you can and wish to use a psychic attack during combat, double all bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you win this combat in four rounds, or less, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you win and the combat lasts five rounds, or longer, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You notice that only one of the five Kraan is equipped with a saddle and reins. You focus on this beast and use you Magnakai skill of Animal Control in an attempt to subdue it. The other four abandon their feast and take to the air as you approach, but the target of your attention remains on the roof, eyeing you nervously.</p>
- <p>You have approached to within an arm's length of the reins when suddenly the Kraan takes fright. It beats its wings frantically in an attempt to knock you away, then propels itself into the air. You leap for its neck and hold fast as the spawn clears the tower and takes to the sky. Desperately you try to swing yourself into the saddle as the creature hovers haphazardly, fifty feet above the concourse.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 20 or higher, add 2 to the number you have chosen. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is less than 10, deduct 2. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect249">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard finally loses his patience. He draws his dagger and, with a lunge, he tries to slash open your satchel, causing you to pull away and draw your own weapon. The guard recognizes that it is not one that a Drakkar would wield, and instantly he shouts out in alarm: <quote>Intruder!</quote></p>
- <p>The two silver-plated warriors raise their spears and a blaze of sorcerous energy erupts simultaneously from their tips. Crimson fire lances towards your body to pierce your chest and abdomen, the impact knocking you headlong to the floor in agony. Biting back the pain, you stagger to your feet and retrieve your weapon in time to fight off the merciless guards. But the alarm has been raised and, within minutes, the thoroughfare is flooded with Drakkarim and Giak soldiers. You fight bravely and dispatch more than fifty of the enemy, but eventually your strength fails and you are overwhelmed and beaten by the denizens of Kaag.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You break free from the combat and run headlong through the tunnel without looking back. The Plaak are incapable of pursuing you at speed and within minutes you have managed to leave them far behind.</p>
- <p>The tunnel continues for several hundred yards before arriving at an empty circular room. The only feature here is a rusty iron ladder, fixed precariously to the wall, which ascends through a hole in the ceiling to a level above. There is no other exit from this chamber and so, with caution guiding your every move, you climb the rust-eaten rungs.</p>
- <p>You rise through the hole to find yourself in a corridor which is strewn with human bones. Skeletons lie mixed in tangled heaps and many of the skulls and loose bones seem to have been gnawed. The psychic residues of pain and terror left by these luckless victims presses in upon your senses, making you feel queasy and claustrophobic. With pounding heart you advance along the bone-choked passage, stepping carefully through the skeletons to avoid making a sound. But you have taken less than a dozen steps when something unexpected makes you freeze in your tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist aside and the liquid passes over your right shoulder to splash, with a sizzling hiss, across the chamber floor. Droplets of the fluid spray your face and cloak, but your mastery of Grand Nexus saves you from being burned by this highly corrosive acid, an acid which would have instantly sealed the doom of a lesser mortal.</p>
- <p>Shaken but undeterred, you scramble to your feet and face the octopoid once more, determined to defeat it in combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up the Spear and notice three notches cut along the shaft where the guard has recorded the lives he has taken with this crudely made weapon. (If you wish to keep this spear, remember to record it on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>.)</p>
- <p>You push open the heavy door carefully and glimpse the Drakkar striding along a corridor. He reaches the end and starts to descend a staircase to the ground floor. You enter and move stealthily towards the stairs. As you draw nearer, you see a gallery which overlooks the cavernous lower level. To your right, set flush to the wall, is a black oak door.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet where you look down at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses tell you that you possess the correct key to open this door long before you have even approached the door itself. You retrieve the key from your Backpack, insert it in the lock and twist it confidently. The lock clicks open and you pass through into the chamber beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The avenue continues to a square where stands a massive horseshoe-shaped arch, crafted from dull blue metal which is engraved with runes and evil insignia. A score of battle-weary Giaks, some Drakkarim, and a Gourgaz are resting nearby. No guards have been posted around their makeshift camp and your arrival here goes unnoticed.</p>
- <p>Beyond them, in the middle distance, you see the base of the great citadel. It is a truly awesome sight, a pyramid of jet-black stone which rises to a needle-sharp peak more than ten thousand feet above the streets of the city.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Battle-weary Giaks, Drakkarim and a Gourgaz rest<br />near the massive horseshoe shaped arch.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Soon a rickety wooden cart, drawn by two ugly, ox-like creatures in harness, trundles into the square. It halts and its Giak driver pulls back the tarpaulin which is covering its cargo, revealing haunches of grey-green meat stacked in a pile. Unceremoniously, the driver tosses them to the soldiers who devour them with obvious relish. It is an unwholesome sight, made even more so when you realize that what they are eating is freshly slaughtered Giak meat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow slams into the centre of the crystal and cracks it open. There is a flash of sparks, then the shimmering wall of light which imprisons Banedon flickers and disappears completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Gourgaz, followed obediently by his squad of ragged Giak warriors, crosses a mile-wide section of derelict buildings before entering a broad, clear avenue where there is very little cover. Unhampered by the terrain, you watch as they start to outdistance you, but you are not lured into following them. You decide to stay in the ruins rather than run the risk of being detected out in the open. However, within a matter of minutes you discover the reason why the Gourgaz took his troops out into the open. The ground in this section of the ruins is unsafe. It is riddled with pot-holes and concealed cellars, covered by rotten wooden beams and slabs of paper-thin plaster. Suddenly one such section gives way beneath your feet and you find yourself falling headlong into coal-black darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is now 0&endash;5 <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the broad staircase, ascending more than twenty levels. Your camouflage disciplines keep you hidden from the inhabitants of the citadel that you encounter during your ascent, but as you climb higher, you notice that these encounters are becoming fewer and fewer.</p>
- <p>At the top of the staircase you are engulfed by a furnace-like heat. A deserted corridor extends into the distance, its walls glowing a deep dull red. Yet beyond this initial section you detect that the tunnel is far cooler.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you wish to try to reach the cooler section of this tunnel, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you decide not to enter the tunnel, you can descend the stairs to a lower, cooler level, by <link-text>turning to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment the heavy iron bridge crashes down across the moat you leap upon it and race towards the dais. But as you near its centre a wall of sparkling magical flame erupts at either end, sealing off both routes completely. In desperation you call telepathically to Banedon, hoping to awaken him to consciousness, but you are unable to make contact. Then, unexpectedly, your psychic calls are answered by a blood-chilling scream.</p>
- <p>Horror floods your mind when you realize that the person on the dais is not your friend Banedon&emdash;it is a Helghast. As the creature rises and its features twist and distort before your gaze, you cast an anxious glance back across the bridge towards the great door. Standing there now are two Drakkarim guards with a slavering boar-like beast which is straining on its leash. Suddenly the magical flame vanishes and, with relish, they release the creature and send it bounding towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have retreated barely a dozen yards along the passage when suddenly a troop of Drakkarim appear in the distance, blocking your escape. They howl like demons and unshoulder their bows as they come rushing along the tunnel towards you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If the number you have picked is 0, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect283">If it is 1&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you step inside the building your breath is snatched away by an overpowering stench. It takes some considerable effort to stem the waves of nausea welling up from the pit of your stomach as, slowly, you follow a corridor which winds its way deeper into this foul place. The smell is atrocious, but not unfamiliar, and when the passage finally reaches its destination your suspicions are confirmed. What you can smell is the stench of Giak blood.</p>
- <p>Before you is a vast, low-ceilinged hall, filled with butchered carcasses hanging from hooks drilled into a criss-cross of roof beams. A dozen Giaks stand at gore-stained benches, cleavers in hand, hacking the grey-green meat into more manageable sizes. It does not seem to worry them in the least that the meat they are crudely shaping is of their own kind.</p>
- <p>Your churning stomach prompts you quickly to leave this abattoir by means of another passage. This ends abruptly at a flight of stairs, at the foot of which is a door secured by a large wooden drawbolt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you wish to descend the stairs, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you choose to investigate the door, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move stealthily to a new position, directly opposite the tower, and wait for the traffic of Giaks and Drakkarim to clear. The street is soon empty and you get ready to make your move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you wish to ascend the stairs which lead directly to the tower roof, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you prefer to attempt to climb the tower wall, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly a brooding, malignant vapour arises from the creature's corpse to hover in the air above it. You sense a powerful magical aura radiating from this sinister shadow and, as you back away from it, a mass of swirling sparks begin flickering at its core. Banedon calls for your help, his cry echoing faintly in your mind. You spin around and see him falling sideways to the floor of the platform, unconscious and unmoving. Fear runs cold in your veins, a fear that grows wilder when you glance once more at the hovering shadow, for now it has descended to the ground and from beneath its curtain-like base there pours a seething tide of black-bodied insects, some as large as mice.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Black-bodied insects seethe from the base of the<br />hovering shadow.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="660"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="660"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect30">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 12 or lower <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If it is 13 or more <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fell creature pins you to the ground and you feel its steely fingers clawing at your throat. In sheer desperation, you twist and writhe like a snake to free yourself from its deadly grip. For an instant its hold falters and you exploit this weakness to the full. Swiftly you bring your knees up to your chest and kick out at the creature's midriff whilst holding firm to the neck of its robe. The Helghast is sent tumbling over your shoulder to plummet, head-first, into the flame-filled moat.</p>
- <p>Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the crackling fire. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, then they turn and run towards the open chamber door. Determined not to let them escape, you give chase and catch up with them within a few yards of the entrance.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The torchlit stairs spiral down to a busy hall where several stairways and tunnels converge. You stay hidden in the shadows while you observe the creatures, mainly Giaks and Drakkarim, who are using this hall to move from one passage to another. All, without exception, are clad in uniforms which have been dyed a muddy shade of orange.</p>
- <p>After a short while, the hall clears and you hurry across it towards a tunnel directly opposite. It is the only exit from the hall to have been ignored by the flow of traffic, and you choose it in the hope that it will be empty of guards. An archway off the tunnel reveals a chamber where the floor appears to be carpeted with a fine grey-green dust. Your senses tingle with a premonition of danger as you stare at the phosphorescent lichen clinging to the rough-hewn walls. The glow from the lichen illuminates several stout pilasters supporting the vaulted ceiling and an arched exit on the far side. The surface of the dusty floor is perfectly flat, undisturbed by tracks of any kind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to cross the dusty floor and enter the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you choose to ignore this hall and continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Coolly you face the advancing line of Death Knights. There is nowhere to run, and there are too many of the enemy to hope to avoid all of their deadly bolts. Upon their leader's command, the Death Knights take aim and fire, sending a dozen iron-tipped shafts whistling towards your chest. You dive aside, but even though your reflexes are lightning-fast, two of the missiles penetrate your heart, killing you instantly.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the dread city-fortress of Kaag.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you cease tapping on the lock, a powerful charge leaps from the surface of the door and explodes in your hand, knocking you backwards to the floor: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Banedon, upon whom you landed when you fell to the floor, is far from impressed by your display of mental arithmetic and he asks to be allowed to see the lock for himself. You heave him on to your shoulder once more and carry him to the door. Even in his weakened state it takes him less than two seconds to arrive at a solution. <thought>Eight,</thought> he says, telepathically.</p>
- <p>You apologize to him, then tap the lock eight times, secretly hoping that he is correct, for you do not relish the thought of receiving a second bolt from this door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your sixth sense prickles with the presentiment of danger. You can feel the presence of a hostile magical being who, although not in this chamber, is somewhere very near. Fearful of the risk of being trapped in this dingy crypt, you unsheathe your weapon and back slowly towards the door, your eyes scanning all around for the merest hint of movement. Then, suddenly, the heavy portal slams shut with a mighty crash that reverberates in your ears. Before you have time to take a breath there is another sound, stone grating on stone, which draws your eyes to the fire-blackened chair.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The floor of the tunnel is gently sloped and, as it ascends, you notice the temperature steadily becoming much cooler. At length it opens out into a dimly-lit chamber where the stone floor is strewn with wood-shavings soiled by dung and dried blood. As you enter, you hear an inhuman snickering sound coming from among the maze of stout pillars that support the roof. The sound causes you immediately to draw your weapon; you have heard this cry once before, and although it was several years ago, you have not forgotten the creature who made it.</p>
- <p>Slowly, from out of the shadows come three hulking beasts, their yellow cat-like eyes glinting malevolently. Your fears are confirmed: they are Egorghs, massive wild bear-like creatures native to the stormy northern coasts of the Darklands. Stirred by the promise of fresh meat, they advance towards you and make ready to launch an attack with fang and claw.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you do not possess this Grand Master skill, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><thought>Very well, minion of Zagarna,</thought> rumbles the voice. <thought>Display proof of your allegiance to your master and you shall be allowed to pass beyond this chamber.</thought></p>
- <p>The echoing voice has barely faded when suddenly the tiny flames of the pool are transformed into a hundred roaring jets of white fire. A wave of searing heat forces you to retreat from the pool's edge and, as you cower behind the protection of your cloak, you try to think of a way to satisfy the voice's command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you possess a Statuette of Zagarna, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The flaming Arrow strikes the creature in the centre of its chest and punches straight through the iron-hard shell. With a look of pained surprise fixed upon its ugly face, the beast shrieks loudly and paws at the shaft quivering in its breast. Then its scarlet eyes roll back in their sockets and it crashes limply to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With deadly accuracy, you draw an Arrow and let fire at the crawling Drakkar guard. At such short range the shaft penetrates his iron backplate, killing him instantly.</p>
- <p>Quickly you descend the iron stairs and drag his limp body out of sight, fearful that it may be seen by a passing patrol. As you are moving him, you notice that he has two chains around his neck. To one there is attached a Whistle; to the other a Brass Key. (If you would like to keep either of these Backpack Items, mark your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.)</p>
- <p>Once you are satisfied that the body is well hidden, you climb the stairs and carefully push open the heavy door. At the end of a short corridor there is a landing where a gallery overlooks the cavernous lower level. Nearby there is a staircase, leading downwards, and to your right a black oak door set flush to the wall.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet and peer down at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the nearest building through a stable door in the north wall. Inside, you narrowly avoid colliding with a Drakkar warrior who is carrying two buckets of water, one in either hand. Your speedy reflexes, and your Kai camouflage skills, prevent this. They also prevent him from seeing you enter. You follow him and soon find yourself in a cavernous hall which is divided into scores of small pens. Each pen is barred with iron gates which keep secure the Doomwolves that are stabled within. You use your Magnakai skill of Animal Control to mask your scent, but even so, some of the larger Doomwolves are becoming noticeably restless in your presence.</p>
- <p>You leave the hall by an archway which leads to a long, narrow passage. You have taken less than a dozen steps when you see a group of Drakkarim approaching in the distance. The passage is dark, but it is too narrow to risk hiding here; the Drakkarim would likely brush against you as they passed.</p>
- <p>Looking around for a way to avoid them, you notice two doors, one on either side of the passageway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you wish to enter the door to your left, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you choose to enter the door to your right, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have been working on the lock for nearly twenty minutes when suddenly you hear the <onomatopoeia>clang</onomatopoeia> of an alarm bell. Seconds later a troop of armoured Drakkarim and Giak soldiers comes rushing into the chamber and spreads out in an attempt to surround you and Banedon. You draw your weapon and fight bravely, dispatching more than fifty of the enemy, but they receive a constant stream of reinforcements and, when finally your strength fails you, you are overwhelmed by the merciless denizens of Kaag.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the sun-sword and hold it before your face. At once a golden halo of flame bursts from its polished blade, causing the Helghast to shriek in alarm as it recognizes the power you wield. It breaks off its advance and staggers back towards the bridge, desperate to flee its nemesis. Determinedly you chase after this evil being and, as it reaches the drawbridge, you come to within a sword's length of its spine.</p>
- <p><quote>Die, foul spawn!</quote> you cry, and with one fell sweep of your arm, you cleave the demonic creature cleanly in two.</p>
- <p>The sundered halves of the Helghast fall from the bridge to be consumed by the hungry flames. Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the moat. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, then they turn and run towards the open door. Determined not to let them escape, you give chase and catch up with them within a few yards of the entrance.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Not daring to move a muscle, you watch the Drakkar guard as he repeatedly attempts to light his pipe. On his sixth attempt he manages to cause the braid to smoulder. However, his success is short-lived. Calling upon your Magnakai skill of Nexus, you extinguish the braid by force of will. Cursing foully, the Drakkar hurls it to the floor in frustration, then turns and throws open the heavy iron door to go in search of a more reliable light. In his anger and haste he leaves his spear behind. With your weapon at the ready, you advance to the top of the stairs and approach the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you wish to pick up the Drakkar's spear, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you choose to ignore the spear, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move quietly to a new position, directly opposite the tower, and wait for the traffic of Giaks and Drakkarim to disperse. The street is soon empty and you get ready to make your move.</p>
- <p>You sprint across the now-empty street and crouch at the base of the tower wall. The brick surface is plastered with powdery grey cement and, as you look up at the roof twenty feet above, you steel yourself for what could prove to be a difficult climb.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess a Rope, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If it is 4-6, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and slowly you feel yourself rising out of the pool of dust. The moment your feet clear the surface, you reach out, take hold of the arched entrance, and pull yourself to safety.</p>
- <p>Your submersion has cost you your money pouch and one item from your Backpack, lost when you first fell into the dusty pool. Erase all your Gold Crowns, and the first item recorded on your Backpack Items list.</p>
- <p>As the effects of the spell wear off, you leave this sinister chamber and head off along the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fireball skims your back before impacting against a distant wall. Your swift reflexes have saved you from injury but now you find yourself lying face down in the seething carpet of insects. You feel them creeping and slithering across your skin, then your psychic senses tingle with a sudden realization. These are no ordinary insects; in fact these are not insects at all. Your sixth sense tells you that they are merely a clever illusion created to panic and deceive you. Confident in this knowledge, you get to your feet, ignoring the mass of creepy-crawlies that are attached in clumps to your body. Then, in a matter of seconds, the insect horde fades and vanishes, the illusion dispelled by your disbelief in its existence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Behind the chair, the tapestry is suddenly torn aside and you find yourself staring at a creature swathed in a hooded orange cloak. It sidesteps the chair and shrieks a defiant curse as it raises a warty, taloned fist. In the next instant you see it hurl a cube of shiny black stone, which comes streaking through the air towards your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you wish to attempt to dodge this missile, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you choose to try to bat it aside with your weapon <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and hold it in your right hand whilst supporting your friend with your left. Then, with a nod of your head, you indicate the Zlanbeast that is perched outside on the platform and whisper to Banedon that it will soon be your transport out of Kaag. He nods his approval and cautiously you take your first few steps into the pen.</p>
- <p>An unexpected sound makes you look up and, to your horror, you see a weighted net falling from the ceiling directly on to your heads.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself down to avoid the fiery missiles and the stream passes over your head, missing you by inches. They rip into a pillar supporting the tunnel ceiling, and sever it cleanly in two. Then there is a thunderous roar and, in the blink of an eye, a whole section of the roof collapses, burying one of the dragon-creatures beneath hundreds of tons of iron and stone.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The dragon leaps forward and lashes out with its fiery<br />blade.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="563"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="563"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>For several seconds you stare at the remaining creature through a cloud of choking dust. Then, as if prompted by a silent command, you are both galvanized into action. The dust clears and a flaming sword appears in the dragon's paw. With stunning suddenness, it leaps forwards and lashes out with its fiery blade.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Nadziran (in dragon guise, with flamesword)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature possesses strong psychic ability. Unless you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points every round you are in combat due to its relentless psychic assault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor wends a tortuous route through a series of interconnecting caverns and chambers. Some are occupied by lowly Giak slaves engaged in menial tasks, none of whom notice your stealthy passing.</p>
- <p>After nearly an hour you arrive at a large hall which is littered with stout trestle tables and wooden benches. A squad of thirty Drakkarim are seated around the largest table, hungrily devouring a foul-smelling feast of meat and wine. You note that most are unarmed, their weapons having been heaped upon an adjoining table prior to the feasting.</p>
- <p>From the shadowy cover of an alcove you listen to their idle chatter, hoping to glean clues as to the location of Zagarna's courtroom, but, unfortunately, your patience goes unrewarded. These troops seem preoccupied with exaggerating the success of ambushes which they have launched recently upon their enemies in the streets around the citadel. However, from this barrack-room talk you do learn two interesting facts about the struggle taking place within Kaag. The two warring factions are fighting principally for control over the Giak spawning vats located in the dungeons of the citadel. The vats are the key to power here; they produce both an unending supply of fresh troops and a source of raw food for whoever controls them.</p>
- <p>Anxious to continue your quest, you resolve to leave the hall by an archway on the far side. Although confident that your camouflage skills will keep you hidden from the Drakkarim, the hall is well-lit and there is a slim chance that you could be seen.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total is 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the fetid watercourse and enter a passage which takes you further south, towards the centre of this hellish metropolis. Everywhere there is decay and dereliction. Once-grand buildings lie in ruins and every surface is beslimed with nameless refuse. Soon you happen upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen Giak dead. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage street battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a feast of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tells you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to crouch in a darkened doorway for cover whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually you clear this section of the city and find yourself in the midst of a once-grand building which now lies derelict. Through one of its shattered windows you look out upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen dead Giak. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage street battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a surfeit of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tells you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to stay crouched in the ruins whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature is less than ten feet away when it opens its mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic defences repel the probe and the pain rapidly recedes. But upon the instant that the attack is repulsed, the two dragon-creatures raise their scaly paws and shoot forth a stream of flaming bolts, aimed directly at your head and body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards see the approaching clouds of smoke and immediately they come thundering along the corridor. You step away from the door, expecting them to kick it open and come rushing in, but instead they skid to a halt and hurriedly pull the door closed to stop the fire spreading into the corridor. They wait outside for several minutes before they are sure it is safe, then together they return to their positions.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately your plan has backfired, but at least your Magnakai skill of Nexus enables you to extinguish the fire before it gets out of control. Frustrated but not defeated, you return to the spy-hole and try to formulate a more successful plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278"><link-text>Turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give the door a mighty kick, slamming it open to reveal a creature clad in a hooded orange robe, kneeling in prayer before a black stone altar where a golden statuette stands on a square of faded cloth. It is flanked on either side by candles which give off a sickly bitter odour. The creature half-turns and shrieks in horror when it sees you rushing into the room. In desperation it raises its warty fists, but it is a futile defence against a blow which cleaves both its hands, and its head, from its loathsome body.</p>
- <p>Sheathing your weapon, you step over the corpse and examine the creature's remains. You recognize it to be a Liganim, one of those who aid the Nadziranim sorcerers in their evil craft. The statuette is a likeness of Slûtar, a Darklord who once ruled Kaag, and the orange robes mark this creature as one of his minions. It would seem that he still worshipped his master's memory.</p>
- <p>A foul, misty vapour arises from the corpse, forcing you to cover your nose and mouth and retreat from the chamber. As you pass in front of the altar, your eye is drawn to the gleaming golden statuette.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Slûtar, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If your Backpack is full you need not discard an item in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">To continue, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the passage, but you have covered less than fifteen yards when you see something which forces you to a halt. A group of figures clad in hooded orange robes are walking towards you from the opposite end of the passage. The leader wears silver bracers on his wrists and he carries a silver staff which he levels at you the moment he sees you and Banedon in the tunnel ahead.</p>
- <p>Instinctively you dodge aside; it is an instinct that saves both your lives, for without warning a radiant bolt of energy leaps from the tip of the creature's staff and comes hurtling along the passage to explode in the chamber behind. Hurriedly you turn and run from the group as the leader makes ready to launch a second bolt.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If the number you have chosen is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8), <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect42">If the number is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hastily constructed shield fails to protect you against all of the speeding crossbow bolts. Two penetrate its weakened edges, bursting through with a splash of yellow sparks to bury themselves in your thigh and shoulder: lose 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Biting back the pain, you wrench the bolts from your body and stagger towards the Death Knights, hoping to break through them before they have a chance to reload and fire again. The sight of you recovering so bravely from such a fearful wounding leaves many of their number staring open-mouthed with shock. You dodge through their line with ease, and by the time they realize that you have evaded them, and start to give chase, you have passed the junction and have recovered sufficiently to run along the street opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call to mind the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your index finger at the keyhole. Upon reciting those words a surge of power runs along your arm, culminating in a blast of energy that leaps from your fingertip and rips into the lockplate. Some glowing splinters from the torn plate pepper your face (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but your spell has worked: the door is now open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You muster your skill and use it to calm the unseen Akataz. The growling stops and, when you pull back the curtain, you see the leathery creature lying on the sawdusted floor as docile as a lamb. This foul-smelling chamber is littered with Giak bones and half-chewed haunches of meat. Amongst the debris you notice something gleaming dully. It is a bronze statuette, forged in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry the maximum number of items allowed, you will have to discard one in its favour.</p>
- <p>To your right you notice another curtained archway. Through the threadbare cloth you see a stone staircase spiralling down into the dark.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you wish to explore this staircase, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you choose to retrace your steps and leave the barracks, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect181-1-foot" idref="sect181-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the archway, a passage leads to a pair of stout steel-sheathed doors. The lock that secures them is inlaid with a series of numbers and you immediately recognize that they are part of a combination lock. One number in the sequence is missing. By tapping the correct number upon the blank square, you will cause the lock to disengage.</p>
- <p>Study the following sequence of numbers carefully. When you think you know what the missing number is, turn to the page that is identical to your answer.<a id="sect181-1" idref="sect181-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
-<illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect181.gif" width="386" height="131"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect181.pdf" width="386" height="131"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you guess incorrectly, or if you cannot answer the puzzle, <link-text>turn instead to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hastily you push Banedon behind you to shield him with your body as the Drakkarim come rushing across the pen, their barbed tridents poised to strike. <quote>Taag!</quote> they cry, and fall upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to your need to defend both yourself and Banedon, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Driven by fear, you recover your footing and force yourself to the top of the mound. The pursuing Death Knights, handicapped by their weighty armour and lack of special skills, can only watch in astonishment as you disappear from view.</p>
- <p>The street continues beyond the mound, heading due south towards the great citadel, the shadow of this edifice looming ever larger. Soon the street opens out to a wide concourse which encircles the citadel and offers access to its great Northern Door. The entire door is made of black iron, streaked with rust. Turrets jut from either side, on top of which you see giant cannon-like weapons, similar to those once employed by the Darklords aboard their ironclad fleets.</p>
- <p>From the cover of a ruined house you watch the traffic of Giaks and Drakkarim, all clad in orange uniforms bearing the mark of a bloodied scythe. The more you stare at the citadel, the more you are sure that this is where Banedon is being held prisoner. However, entry into the citadel itself looks to be impossible, until, that is, an opportunity unexpectedly presents itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A ghostly mist issues from the parting jaws of the throne-statue. You step back, your weapon raised, but it does nothing to protect you from the piercing screech which suddenly fills your head. Fortunately, your powerful mind defences are protection enough against this violent psychic attack, and soon the screech fades to a more tolerable volume.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you tail the group as they wend their way through the alleyways and ruined streets of this quarter. Shortly they arrive at a complex of stable-like buildings, each one devoid of all decoration or embellishment save for a liberal coating of coal-black grime. Here the party splits into two groups. One section enters the complex; the other, led by the Gourgaz, continues on its way southwards, heading deeper into Kaag towards the sound of a distant street battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to follow the Gourgaz and his troop of Giak soldiers, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you choose to investigate the complex of buildings, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you decide to avoid both of these groups, you can make your own way deeper into Kaag by <link-text>turning to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The purplish glare is generated by a glassy opaque sphere which hangs suspended above the doors. It pours forth a blinding curtain of light which fills the entrance, but this quickly fades once you have passed through into the chamber beyond.</p>
- <p>As your eyes adjust to the gloomy interior, you find yourself standing in a small temple. A plain stone altar dominates the chamber, around which are positioned a ring of twenty black candles. The candles are fixed into elaborately carved holders fashioned to resemble each of the twenty Darklords sent long ago by Naar, King of the Darkness, to conquer Magnamund. Their flames burn brightly scarlet and they give off a rancid, greasy smell that, despite your attempts to block it, makes you feel lightheaded and nauseous.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you dispose of the Drakkar uniform and move to leave this temple through an archway opposite, for there is an extraordinary saturation of evil contained within these walls and you feel it leeching your mental and physical strength. (Unless you possess Kai-screen, deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to its insidious effects.)</p>
- <p>You are near the centre of the temple when you notice something strange resting in a hollow in the surface of the altar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If, in a previous <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> adventure, you have ever been to Mogaruith, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attempt to free yourself from your dusty entrapment goes awry. Your foot slips and your effort merely accelerates your descent. Within two minutes the fine grit closes over your head. You survive beneath the dust for ten minutes more before surrendering to your doom.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the citadel of Kaag.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush forwards and try to revive Banedon but he is deeply unconscious and does not respond. Taking hold of your friend by the arm, you lift him across your shoulders, then carefully begin your descent from the platform. Once you are safely at the bottom of the steps, you cast your eyes around the hall for a means of escape. There are only two exits visible: the light-filled doors by which you entered, and a tunnel in the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to leave the hall by the main doors, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If you choose to leave via the tunnel in the north wall, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You catch the fleeing Giaks and cut them down before they have a chance to retaliate. Breathless and bloodied, you are about to sheathe your weapon when suddenly you see the Vordak appear at the far end of the street. This time it is not alone; it is flanked by two others of its kind. With a chorus of shrieking howls, these three undead spawn raise their bony fists in your direction and launch a combined psychic assault on your senses.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bloodied and battered, you struggle to disentangle yourself from the bodies of the slain Kraan. Their deaths have scared their confederates who are now flying from this quarter of the city, shrieking and cawing in alarm and dismay.</p>
- <p>Once free, you stumble off the street into the relative safety of the ruins, where you find an ideal hiding place. It is concealed from the sky by an upper storey, and it commands an unobstructed view of a deserted plaza, its only means of approach. Here you rest while you consider your next course of action. Restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>During your rest, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">To continue, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of negative psychic energy crashes against your mind and you stagger back, shocked and dazed by the ferocity of this unexpected assault: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you have survived this psychic attack, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon but before you can raise it to strike, a mass of flailing tentacles come snaking towards you, forcing you to retreat towards the pool. Each of these limbs is tipped with a razor-sharp segment of tile which whistles as it cuts the air before your face.</p>
- <p>Slowly but relentlessly the octopoid advances, pushing you steadily back towards the rubble-strewn entrance to the chamber. As it draws level with the central pool, you suddenly realize something that had eluded your senses when first you entered this hall. The pool itself contains not water, but a clear, oily fluid&ellips; a clear, oily, <em>inflammable</em> fluid!</p>
- <p>In a moment of vivid realization your Kai senses inform you that this creature is especially vulnerable to fire. Hastily you sheathe your weapon and search instead for something capable of igniting a fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess a Lantern, a Torch, or a Tinderbox, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you do not possess any of these items, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fading echoes of the voice give way to a low, rumbling growl which seems to emanate from somewhere behind the sealed archway. This rumbling persists for more than a minute until, with a startling abruptness, there is a loud <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia>. Chunks of mortar fall from the octopoid mosaic and, to your mounting horror, you watch as the eyes of the creature begin to glow with a baleful green light.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Chunks of mortar fall from the tiled hide of the<br />octopoid mosaic as its eyes glow with baleful green light.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Like a waking goliath, the mosaic comes slowly to life. Mesmerized by its pulsating gaze, you barely step back in time to save yourself when its tile-encrusted tentacles burst from the wall and come writhing towards your head. You lash out at the flailing limbs but your blow glances off the armour-like skin, inflicting no more than a scratch upon the tiled hide of this supernatural creature. Briefly the tentacles move apart to reveal once more the two glowing green orbs. Then a wave of psychic energy buffets your mind, designed to weaken and subdue you, but your Magnakai defences deflect this attack. You sense that the creature is surprised by your natural resistance and, before it can muster its powers to launch a second, far stronger psychic blast, you leap forwards and aim a blow between its evil green eyes. You are within an arm's length of striking the creature's bulbous head when suddenly it squirts a stream of clear liquid from its beak, aimed directly at your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you possess mastery of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push open the heavy door carefully and glimpse the Drakkar striding along a corridor. He reaches the end and starts to descend a staircase to the ground floor. You enter and move stealthily towards the stairs. As you draw nearer, you see a gallery which overlooks the cavernous lower level. To your right, set flush to the wall, is a black oak door.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet where you look down at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill of Animal Control you attempt to will the waking creature into returning to sleep. Unfortunately, this Giant Doomwolf is very hungry and it has already detected your scent.</p>
- <p>Stirred to wakefulness by its gnawing hunger, and angered by the close proximity of a natural enemy, the great beast breaks free of the rope that is keeping it tethered and comes leaping through the air towards your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Giant Doomwolf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">39</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">49</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat and must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you win and the combat lasts three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or longer, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the terrible pain in your shoulder subsides, you open your eyes to find yourself lying face down in the seething carpet of insects. You feel them creeping and slithering across your skin, then your psychic senses tingle with a sudden realization. These are no ordinary insects; in fact these are not insects at all. Your sixth sense tells you that they are merely a cunning illusion created to panic and deceive you. Confident in this knowledge, you get to your feet, ignoring the mass of creepy-crawlies that are attached in clumps to your body. Then, in a matter of seconds, the insect horde fades and vanishes, the illusion dispelled by your disbelief in its existence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281"><link-text>Turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Talons spring from the creature's forepaws and its sharp teeth glint like polished knives as it comes leaping through the air towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vodok</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect150">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
-
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you are less than five feet from the roof, a part of the surface cement crumbles beneath your fingers. Desperately you throw your arms wide, seeking new purchase, and only just manage to prevent yourself from falling backwards to the street below. This close call leaves your hands skinned and bleeding: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Determinedly you haul yourself up the remaining few feet and take firm hold of the tower parapet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your Arrow and let fire at the creature's head, aiming for its eyes, but it twists its powerful neck as the shaft approaches and it lodges harmlessly between its teeth. The great jaw chomps down, pulping the Arrow which it spits back at you with contempt. Hastily you drop your Bow and draw a hand weapon as the shadow of the beast falls upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dark tunnel descends to a titanic circular hall which is lit by a lava-filled vent at its centre. Tunnels radiate from this hall in every direction, like the spokes of an infernal wheel, their destinations mere pinpoints of flame in the far distance. The air here is thick and cloying. It is choked by sulphur and other foul discharges of noisy engines located deep in the bowels of Kaag. The pressure of this tainted atmosphere is forever changing, causing you momentarily to lose your balance and stumble when first you enter the central hall.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Before you, astride the vent, a colossal idol looms up against the crimson light like some supernatural giant forged of steel and stone. Warily you pass beside one of its huge, taloned feet, half expecting it to animate suddenly and come crashing down upon you as if you were a lowly insect. Fortunately, the foot remains immobile and you are able to leave by a triangular-shaped tunnel, the largest of those which radiate from this hall.</p>
- <p>Other passages branch off this tunnel, spaced at regular intervals of one hundred paces. You detect movement taking place in several of these sub-tunnels and, when at last your natural curiosity prompts you to stop and observe one (using your Magnakai skills to magnify your vision), you detect that it is occupied by Nadziranim. These mysterious sorcerers are gifted in the black arts of Right-handed magic and, before their demise, they slavishly assisted the Darklords of Helgedad. These particular Nadziranim are busy at slime-filled vats, engaged in the harvesting of Giak spawn, a process that at first fascinates then rapidly repulses you. Sickened by what you have seen, you hurry away towards a distant junction where a narrower tunnel crosses from left to right. As you approach the junction, you feel the skin on your arms and the nape of your neck tingle with a premonition of peril. The sensation soon passes, but you are left with an awareness that a greater danger lurks somewhere nearby.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to turn left at the junction and continue, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you choose to turn right, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your rest is disturbed by the sudden arrival in the plaza of a score of battle-weary Giaks, some Drakkarim, and a Gourgaz who is nursing a wounded arm. You watch them make camp and notice that they are so fatigued that they neglect to post any sentries.</p>
- <p>The pall of smoke which has covered this section of the city begins to thin out, and in the middle distance you can see the base of the great citadel. It is a truly awesome sight, a pyramid of jet-black stone which rises to a needle-sharp peak more than ten thousand feet above the streets of Kaag.</p>
- <p>Soon a rickety wooden cart, drawn by two ugly, ox-like creatures in harness, trundles into the plaza. It halts and its Giak driver pulls back the tarpaulin which is covering its cargo, revealing haunches of grey-green meat stacked in a pile. Unceremoniously, he tosses them to the exhausted soldiers who devour them with obvious relish. It is an unwholesome sight, made even more so when you realize that what they are eating is freshly slaughtered Giak meat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard lowers his eyes to avoid your burning stare. He mumbles something which sounds like an apology and shuffles away from the door to let you enter. With exaggerated bravado, you thrust open the heavy iron portal and stride into the corridor beyond. The door slams shut behind you with a dull boom.</p>
- <p>The corridor ends at a landing where a gallery overlooks the cavernous lower level. Nearby there is a staircase, leading down, and a black oak door set flush to the wall.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet and look down at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you are ascending the steps towards the curtain of light which hangs before the main entrance your Kai senses warn you that there is danger ahead. You halt and listen. At first you hear nothing, then you detect the sound of marching feet. The sound stops and moments later you see the curtain on light shimmering; the doors to the hall have been opened.</p>
- <p>Cursing your luck, you turn and run towards the tunnel as the first few soldiers of a Drakkarim patrol come marching through the light-curtain into the hall. They command you to halt but you ignore them and hurry across the tiered hall as fast as you can. Burdened by the weight of your friend, you cannot move as quickly as you would like, and before you reach the mouth of the tunnel the Drakkarim are taking aim at you with their bows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you possess Grand Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Very well, minion of Slûtar,</quote> rumbles the voice. <quote>Display proof of your allegiance to your master and you shall be allowed to pass beyond this chamber.</quote></p>
- <p>The echoing voice has barely faded when suddenly the tiny flames of the pool are transformed into a hundred roaring jets of white fire. A wave of searing heat forces you to retreat from the pool's edge and, as you cower behind the protection of your cloak, you try to think of a way to satisfy the voice's command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you possess a Statuette of Slûtar, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach to your belt and unsheathe the sun-sword. At once a golden halo of flame bursts from its polished blade, causing the Helghast to shriek in alarm as it recognizes the power you wield. It loosens its terrible grip upon your throat, enabling you to thrust the hilt of the Sommerswerd into its midriff and force it away. The Helghast emits a wailing cry and a wave of psychic energy assails your mind. But your Magnakai defences are more than sufficient to repel this weak attack and, with one fell sweep of your arm, you cleave the demonic creature cleanly in two.</p>
- <p>The sundered halves of the Helghast fall from the bridge to be consumed by the hungry flames. Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the moat. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, then they turn and run towards the open door. Determined not to let them escape, you give chase and catch up with them within a few yards of the entrance.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Doomwolf crashes to the floor, mortally wounded, you hear the sound of the door being unlocked. It is thrown open and in rush a group of grim-faced Drakkarim guards, their swords drawn ready for action. Swiftly you dispatch the leading pair, but more arrive to take their place, forcing you to retreat deeper into the cell.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to collect Banedon, then, once he is safely across your shoulders, you climb the stairs and hurry through the archway. A tunnel lined with rich wood panelling leads to a chamber where eight smaller passages disappear off in all directions. You scan these exits and a familiar fear returns to haunt you, a fear that you will never find your way out off Kaag alive.</p>
- <p>Using your innate healing skills, you try once more to revive Banedon. You remember once, during a tutorial at the Kai monastery, that Banedon conjured up a vision of the monastery and its surrounding estates. You were able to see yourself in miniature, standing in your chambers as if you were a tiny animated doll in a doll's house. If he were well enough to perform that spell here in Kaag, you might be able to locate your position and plan a route of escape.</p>
- <p>Mustering your skills, you place your hands on Banedon's chest and transmit your power directly into his heart. (Reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by 3 points.) Gradually Banedon stirs to consciousness and, as his strength returns, rekindled by your healing power, he is able to grant your request. On the floor of the chamber he calls forth a living, three-dimensional vision of Kaag. Gradually this vision expands until you are looking at yourselves, kneeling on the floor of a chamber on one of the upper levels of the central citadel. The vision blurs and fades, but not before you are able to trace the quickest way out of this dreadful place.</p>
- <p>The passage which heads due south from this chamber leads directly to the Zlanbeast pens and landing platforms situated on the exterior wall of the citadel, high above the great South Gate. It is from here that you plan to escape, leaving the citadel by the same way you entered it: by air.</p>
- <p>Confident that the success of your quest is now within your grasp, you help Banedon to his feet and support him as you make your way along the south passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267"><link-text>Turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up one of the heavy black candlesticks and raise it above your head, steadying yourself as you get ready to hurl it at the sphere. Then a wave of dark energy comes coursing from the orb and you swoon as it washes over your body. You are in danger of dropping the candlestick upon your own head until, with a defiant cry, you draw on your psychic strength to counter the power of the orb.</p>
- <p>As your mind clears and your strength returns, you launch the candlestick at the altar and smash the orb into hundreds of tiny shards. Instantly there is a tremendous implosion and a rush of air as the evil within this chamber is sucked back to its source. The stench that permeated the air has now gone and you feel a sense of well-being infuse your body: add 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">To continue, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ascend several levels of the citadel, by slope and stair, until you reach a vast hall festooned with icy stalactites. In the dim distance you see the yellowy glow of a warmer chamber and you hurry towards it, taking care not to slip on the treacherous, frost-covered floor.</p>
- <p>You are near the centre of this chamber when the temperature drops dramatically. Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the extreme cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">To continue, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few yards of the passage that leads out of the mess hall when suddenly four Drakkarim turn a corner and come striding up the passage towards you. One of them sees you and shouts out in alarm: <quote>Intruder!</quote></p>
- <p>In an instant your weapon is in your hand, ready for combat. Behind you the feasting squad falls silent, then, as one, they jump to their feet and scramble to retrieve their weapons. Rather than face thirty Giaks, you decide to rush the four who are now striding along the passage, their swords drawn ready to cut you down.</p>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, and launch yourself at the four grim-faced warriors.</p>
- <combat><enemy>4 Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the sun-sword and hold it before you. Immediately, the twin streams of fiery bolts are drawn to its golden blade. They hit the tip and merge into a searing hot ball of power which radiate a blinding white light. The Sommerswerd vibrates in your hands. Desperately you fight to control the power that is held precariously in your grasp.</p>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry and, with a mighty effort, you cast the ball of energy at the two dragon-creatures. The meteor of light hits the leading creature and explodes with a brilliant flash. There a splash of white-hot sparks and suddenly the tunnel is silent. The dragon-creature and the ball of fire have vanished.</p>
- <p>For several seconds you stare at the remaining creature without either of you moving. Then, as prompted into action by a silent command, the two of you are galvanized into action. A flaming sword appears in the dragon's paw and, with stunning suddenness, it leaps forwards into the attack.</p>
-
- <combat><enemy>Nadziran (in dragon guise, with flamesword)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature possesses strong psychic ability. Unless you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points every round you are in combat due to its relentless psychic assault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Helghast slams into your chest and drags you flailing to the ground. Frantically you try to get a firm grip on its robes as the two of you roll precariously close to the edge of the moat. With glee, the two Drakkarim stand back and watch your mortal struggle, confident that the Helghast will emerge victorious.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 15 or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race up the remaining steps and take hold of the Drakkar by the throat. Desperately he fights to free himself from your crushing grip, kicking and scratching like a wild animal, until you are forced to let him go. As you do so, he stumbles and falls backwards over the parapet, landing with a shriek in the street below. You glance over the stone rail and see that he has met his doom, impaled upon the spikes of his cruel device.</p>
- <p>Now you turn your attention to the five Kraan which are feeding on the roof. Gingerly you approach them, hoping not to startle them into flight, but the commotion, and your presence, has made them very uneasy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you possess the Discipline of Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are unable to evade the creature so you raise your weapon defiantly and steel yourself for combat, as the shadow of this angry beast falls upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your innate Magnakai ability of Animal Control, but to no avail. The Akataz has already detected your scent; it is too late to attempt to mask it now.</p>
- <p>With a chilling howl the leathery creature comes bursting through the curtain, its claws and fangs shredding the rotting fabric with ease. For a moment it becomes entangled and struggles to tear itself free, allowing you precious seconds in which to react to this vicious attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you do not, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more your weapon hits the crystal and glances off without effect. You are moving forwards to retrieve it when suddenly the hall echoes to the <onomatopoeia>clang</onomatopoeia> of an alarm bell. Seconds later a troop of armoured Drakkarim and Giak soldiers comes streaming through the entrance and moves to surround you and your captive friend. You fight bravely and dispatch more than fifty of the enemy, but eventually your strength fails and you are overwhelmed by the denizens of Kaag.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the courtroom of Zagarna.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The torchlit stairs spiral down to a busy hall where several stairways and tunnels converge. You stay hidden in the shadows while you observe the creatures, mainly Giaks and Drakkarim, that are using this hall to move from one passage to another. All, without exception, are clad in uniforms which have been dyed a muddy shade of orange.</p>
- <p>After a short while, the hall clears and you hurry across towards a tunnel directly opposite. It is the only exit from the hall to have been ignored by the flow of traffic, and you choose it in the hope that it will be empty of guards. An archway off the tunnel reveals a chamber where the floor appears to be carpeted with a fine grey-green dust. Your senses tingle with a premonition of danger as you stare at the phosphorescent lichen clinging to the rough-hewn walls. The glow from the lichen illuminates several stout pilasters which support the vaulted ceiling and an arched exit on the far side. The surface of the dusty floor is perfectly flat, undisturbed by tracks of any kind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you wish to cross the dusty floor and enter the archway opposite, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you choose to ignore this hall and continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the dim distance you see a score of creatures stumbling along the tunnel. You magnify your gaze and discern that they are vaguely human in form, although hairless, lean and stringy as if from starvation. Their toes and fingers end in horny, hooked claws and their large eyes are deep set in skeletal faces, etched by untold years of pain and anguish. You bring to bear your innate psychic skills and are shocked by what you discover.</p>
- <p>Your senses reveal that these creatures were once human soldiers in the armies of the Freeland Alliance. Captured in battle and brought to Kaag long ago, they have endured unspeakable experiments at the hands of the Nadziranim. Now, no longer of use to those evil magicians, these pitiful victims have been left to wander the forgotten passages of this foul city, united in undeath.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Lean, hairless and stringy creatures stumble along the<br />tunnel, faces showing years of pain and anguish.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="578"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="578"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>When the undead soldiers are twenty yards distant you attempt to communicate with them telepathically. You sense that the one who is leading the group radiates a faint psychic aura and you hope that he may know the whereabouts of your captive friend Banedon. At first your questions elicit no reply, then, when your eyes meet, you feel a wave of despair wash over you as suddenly you tap into the agony of this creature's existence. (Lose two <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to psychic shock.) As the effects of the shock fade, you hear a ghostly voice echoing thinly in your mind.</p>
- <p><thought>Yes&ellips; I know of whom you seek&ellips;</thought> it croaks. <thought>The Sommlending wizard is imprisoned here in Kaag&ellips; in Zagarna's courtroom&ellips;</thought></p>
- <p>You ask the wretched zombie for directions to Zagarna's courtroom but the only help he can offer is to tell you that it is <quote>many levels above</quote>.</p>
- <p>The pitiful group part in two to allow you to pass. As you move through them, your hatred of the Nadziranim blazes anew when you see upon the bodies of these once-human soldiers the terrible scars left by the cruel experiments. Filled with anger and remorse you hurry away, silently fearful that Banedon may already have suffered a similar fate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57"><link-text>Turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vordaks cackle with glee at the success of their combined attack. Eager to exploit their advantage, they rush forwards drawing heavy iron maces as they prepare to finish you once and for all. As the pain in your head recedes, you raise your own weapon and get ready to meet their assault.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Vordaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect220-1-foot" idref="sect220-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The panel glides shut behind you and keeps you hidden from the enemy. Through the wall you hear cries of surprise and some curses when they enter the chamber to discover that you have seemingly disappeared into thin air. Mindful that they might find your hiding place, you descend the stairs and arrive at a vault which is lavishly equipped with all manner of elaborate laboratory apparatus. Several large tables line one wall, many stained with blood.</p>
- <p>You sense that Banedon is disturbed by the sight of these tables and, when you ask him what is wrong, he tells you that this chamber is where the Nadziranim subjected him to hours of brutal interrogation in a futile attempt to extract the magical secrets of the Brotherhood.</p>
- <p><thought>Despite all their fiendish tortures,</thought> he says, his mind-voice weak yet full of pride, <thought>they learned nothing.</thought></p>
- <p>You search for a way out of this vault and soon discover a steel door which is secured by a curious combination lock. It comprises three raised blocks, each block divided into four equal squares. In each square, bar one, there is a number. You ask Banedon if he knows how the lock operates and he recalls once seeing a Nadziranim tapping the empty square several times in order to make the door open.</p>
- <p>Consider the following grids of numbers. When you think you know what the missing number is, turn to the entry that bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect220-1" idref="sect220-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect220.gif" width="386" height="124"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect220.pdf" width="386" height="124"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect154">If your answer is incorrect, or if you cannot solve the puzzle, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow strikes the creature's head and gouges out a skull-deep furrow of skin and muscle before arcing away into the air. The beast shrieks with the agony of the wound and skids to a halt, twisting its head violently from side to side in a futile attempt to rid itself of the terrible pain. The wound has slowed the beast but not stopped it and, with revenge stark in its eyes, it resumes the attack.</p>
- <p>Cursing its tenacity, you shoulder your Bow and unsheathe your weapon in readiness for a fight to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnagusk</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fiery bolt continues to gather speed and energy as it comes racing towards you. It is barely an arm's length from your chest when you are forced to dive headlong into the insect swarm to avoid being hit.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl your light towards the pool and the inflammable liquid ignites on contact, with a deafening <onomatopoeia>whoomph</onomatopoeia> that leaves you sprawled flat on your back.</p>
- <p>For a few seconds the chamber is aglow with a blinding white light, then the glare fades to reveal the octopoid writhing on the floor, close to the blazing pool's edge, its loathsome body being consumed by a hungry mass of guttering yellow flames.</p>
- <p>Covering your mouth with your cloak, you stumble to your feet and skirt around the burning carcass towards the archway. The sheet of blue-green metal that once blocked this exit is no longer there; it has moved aside to reveal a dark tunnel leading away from the chamber. Eager to leave this smoke-filled hall and continue the search for your captive friend without further delay, you hurry through the archway into the unwelcoming darkness beyond. (Remember to erase the Backpack Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Intrigued by the squealing, you approach the door cautiously and place your eye to the spy-hole. Your fears soon melt away when you see two ragged-eared rats in a corridor beyond, fighting over a meaty bone. You chuckle as the smaller of the two unexpectedly wins the dispute and proudly drags away his prize. Your eyes follow the rat as it disappears towards a distant hallway where you spy something else that makes your pulse quicken in anticipation.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="148"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="148"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skills to magnify your vision, you see a pair of massive doors at the far side of the thoroughfare, guarded by two warriors clad in polished silver armour. A steady traffic of Drakkarim and Giaks passes to and fro before the doors, but none enter. You judge the hall to be over a hundred yards away, but even at this distance you can sense a great power is being contained behind the doors.</p>
- <p>After a short while the traffic in the hallway subsides. Then two wispy, ghost-like figures glide into view, each clad in shimmering semi-transparent robes, and at once you recognize them to be Nadziranim&emdash;masters of evil magic. The guards step aside and, as the great doors part to allow the sorcerers entry, a flood of blinding purplish light pours from out of the room beyond. Suddenly your senses tingle with a premonition that your friend Banedon is close at hand. Convinced that you will find him somewhere beyond the doors, you resolve to gain entry as quickly as you can, but if you are to get past the two guards you must first create a diversion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you wish to start a fire in this storeroom in order to lure the guards away, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to put on a Drakkar uniform (which lies discarded on the floor nearby), then attempt to bluff your way past the guards, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you sense that the ghoulish creature has infected you with a virulent virus, which passed into your body the moment it scratched your face. Hurriedly you draw on the healing power of your Grand Master Discipline and cause an army of antibodies to be released into your bloodstream to counter the insidious virus. You feel your temperature rise as the antibodies battle to clear your blood and, within a few minutes, this battle is won. The use of your Discipline costs you 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, but it saves you from an otherwise grisly death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">Once you have fully recovered, you check your equipment before climbing the steps which lead out of this grim cellar. <link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Emerging from the shadows with slow purposeful steps comes a huge rodent-like creature. Its mustard-coloured body and its six claw-tipped legs are thick and powerful, corded with muscle that ripples as it moves. Its head is monstrous, the jaw seeming too large for the skull. This entire bony structure extends beyond the lips and is studded with large spade-like teeth.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A huge, rodent-like creature with monstrous jaw and<br />large spade-like teeth emerges from the shadows.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="597"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="597"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>It turns its great head to look at you with cruel deep-set eyes and an eerie cry breaks from its maw. Cadak laughs with undisguised glee and, upon his command, the creature gathers speed and attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you have Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you have Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you have neither a Bow nor the listed Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You invoke the words of the Brotherhood spell <quote>Flameshaft</quote> and instantly the first few inches of your Arrow are sheathed with magical blue fire.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="79"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="79"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Weaponmastery with Bow, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once the coast is clear, you run across the street and down the short flight of stone steps leading to the crypt door. Hurriedly you press your shoulder to the cold iron and the portal creaks open to reveal a cramped, rough-walled chamber, dominated by a massive wooden chair, its back mostly destroyed by fire. Through the blackened timbers you see a mouldy tapestry covering part of the rear wall. The crypt is otherwise empty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you possess the Grand Master Disciplines of Telegnosis <em>and</em> Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you do not have <em>both</em> of these skills, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swooping down from out of the shadows of the roof comes a huge gull-winged monstrosity. Its red reptilian skin is aglow with fine barbs, and a mass of coal-black hair streams from its bony skull. An open maw reveals a set of chisel-shaped teeth, many of which have been broken on the bones of past victims who have wandered unwittingly into this hall. It shrieks maniacally as it plummets towards your head.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A huge gull-winged monstrosity with glowing red<br />reptilian skin swoops out of the shadows.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="574"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="574"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You drop Banedon to the floor and unsheathe a weapon just in time to defend yourself against this creature's initial attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ashradon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to Mindblast and Psi-surge, and suffers only half-damage resulting from the use of Kai-surge. If you choose to use Kai-surge during this combat, halve your normal <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for the duration of the combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect230-1-foot" idref="sect230-1">
- <p>Kika are one-tenth of the value of a Gold Crown and also take up one-tenth of the space of a Gold Crown.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step away from the bodies of the two Drakkarim Death Knights, you notice they both have brass keys hanging on chains from their sword belts. If you wish to keep one of these keys, record it as a Brass Key in the Backpack section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>A search also reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Swords</li>
- <li>1 Dagger</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>80 Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)<a id="sect230-1" idref="sect230-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- <li>Bottle of Wine</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">To continue, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature tries to sidestep your speeding shaft but it moves too slowly. The Arrow penetrates the side of its neck, causing the beast to shriek out loudly in pained surprise. However, despite this fearful wounding, it does not break off its attack. With chilling disregard for pain it wrenches the Arrow from its throat and hurls it aside. Unnerved by this display of bravado, you shoulder your Bow as, with a gurgling shriek, the beast comes bounding forwards.</p>
- <p>You get ready to meet its advance yet, when it is but ten feet away, it suddenly opens its blood-spattered mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You claw your way towards the top of the mound, fearful all the while that you are presenting yourself as too easy a target for the crossbow-wielding Death Knights to miss. You are making good progress until, less than six feet from the summit, you slip on some loose rubble and fall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If the number you have chosen is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8), <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect112">If it is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calling upon your Grand Mastery, mentally you command the three lumbering beasts to halt and, simultaneously, all three freeze in their tracks. Bewildered and frightened by the strange feelings that are coursing through their bodies, the three creatures back away into the shadows, whimpering grotesquely as they retreat like a litter of sick pups.</p>
- <p>Immediately you seize the chance to escape and hurry past them, running through the chamber towards an open passage beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon forth the power word of the Elder Magi and direct it at the keyhole. There is a crack like thunder and the door shudders violently under the weight of its impact. A cloud of metal shavings wafts from the keyhole and, when you place your boot to the door, you discover that the spell has worked; the lock is broken and the door swings open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your inner strength to quell your fears of what may lie ahead, you descend the ridge and approach the great, frowning bastions of Kaag. Through the swirling dust you see a pitted road which leads to the East Gate. Its storm-blown surface is littered with corpses, bleached bones, rusted weapons and armour. Crab-like scavengers scuttle among the debris, fighting for scraps to feed their young which nest in thousands of empty Giak skulls half-buried in the ground.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Shielded from detection by the storm and your Kai skills, you reach the breached east wall unobserved.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you climb over the rubble, which is heaped between the huge cubes of marble that once comprised this section of Kaag's curtain-wall, and find yourself in a street lined with decaying halls and slum dwellings. A dun pall of choking smoke hovers above this quarter, which reeks of iron and sulphur. Moving among the ruins you see a ragged group of Giaks, led by a Gourgaz clad in a shirt of mail. They halt for a few moments, then the Gourgaz hisses an order and they continue at a lumbering pace, heading south. You notice that their tattered blue-green uniforms all bear the emblem of a broken skull.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to follow these troops, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you choose to avoid them by heading in the opposite direction, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An arrow pierces your breeches and gouges a crimson line across the back of your thigh, making you cry out in pain. You stumble, but you manage to stay on your feet: lose three <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Cursing the pain, you hobble into the dingy passage beyond and descend by slope and stair to a rectangular hall which is lined with ancient stone statues, their features made unrecognizable by age. Tar-soaked torches fixed to the two longest walls illuminate this musty chamber with a flickering amber light, and the air is heavy with their oily stench. In the distance you see an archway and the passage continuing away into darkness. Your injured leg aches viciously and the thought of resting for a few minutes seems irresistible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to stop here for a few minutes' rest, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to press on without stopping, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your senses warn you that the tower stairs, although they look empty, are in fact guarded by Drakkarim stationed inside the tower. They offer the most convenient route to the roof, but it could also be the most perilous.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you wish to avoid the stairs, you can attempt to climb the wall instead by <link-text>turning to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you decide to use the stairs, despite having been forewarned, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to control your urge to struggle, yet you are aware that even when you remain perfectly still you are sinking little by little to your doom.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the toe of your left boot strikes something firm and a shiver runs down your spine when you sense that it is a corpse. It is the body of a Giak who was thrown into this chamber as punishment for some minor infringement of citadel discipline. You wait until your foot is firmly placed on the corpse, then you tense your leg muscles and push yourself upwards as hard as you can, with your hands outstretched in a desperate effort to grab hold of the arched entrance.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If your total score is 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If it is 4-8, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards break off their conversation, then turn to face you once more.</p>
- <p><quote>Show this relic,</quote> commands the warrior to your right.</p>
- <p>Hesitantly you reach into the satchel and fumble with the buckle, stalling for time.</p>
- <p><quote>Be quick,</quote> warns the other guard, reaching for a dagger with his free hand, <quote>or I shall open it for you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess either a Statue of Slûtar, the Dagger of Vashna, or Helshezag, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you do not possess any of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sudden noise makes you spin around, half-crouched, your weapon ready to hand for your defence. At first you see nothing, then a faint shadow moving at the corner of your eye draws your attention to an alcove on the other side of the hall. Suddenly you hear Banedon's voice echoing faintly in your head. You cannot understand what he is saying but you sense that it is a warning. You glance over your shoulder and notice that he is pointing at the granite throne. To your horror you see that the throne's fanged mouth is opening wider and wider.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You charge through the power-wall and your senses reel as your body earths the electrical energy: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. But, despite the momentary pain, you quickly recover and dispatch the two wand-wielding Liganim before they, too, attempt to run from the library.</p>
- <p>The noise of their dying screams freezes the escaping Liganim dead in his tracks. He spins around in the archway, his ugly face transfixed into a mask of sheer terror as he watches you come racing towards him with your weapon poised to strike. However, the sight is too much for his weak heart which ceases to beat moments before you land your blow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place your ear to the rough timbers and hear movement, snoring, and the rattle of arms and equipment. At once you realize that this door leads to the Drakkarim dormitory hall, a place you would do well to avoid.</p>
- <p>Forewarned, you leave the chamber and venture south into the passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343"><link-text>Turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an Arrow but before you can place it to your Bow, a mass of flailing tentacles come snaking towards you, forcing you to retreat towards the pool. Each of these limbs is tipped with a razor-sharp segment of tile which whistles as it cuts the air before your face.</p>
- <p>Slowly but relentlessly the octopoid advances, pushing you steadily back towards the rubble-strewn entrance to the chamber. As it draws level with the central pool, you suddenly realize something that had eluded your senses when first you entered this hall. The pool itself contains not water, but a clear, oily fluid&ellips; a clear, oily, <em>inflammable</em> fluid!</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn instead to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull open a bolt which secures the door and slip inside the room beyond. With bated breath you close the door and listen intently to the footfalls of the approaching Drakkarim, silently praying that they will pass by without checking this room. The steps grow louder, then, to your dismay, they halt immediately outside the door. You hear a gruff voice cursing, then there is a metallic click as the bolt is drawn. Unwittingly they have locked you in.</p>
- <p>The Drakkarim continue on their way and you hear the sound of their heavy iron-shod boots receding along the passageway. Suddenly, a low growl makes you spin around, your hand flashing to the hilt of your weapon. Before you, resting on a bed of mouldy straw, lies the largest Doomwolf you have ever seen. It twitches and flicks its massive head as slowly it stirs from sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you possess the Discipline of Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step back a few paces and take aim with your Bow at the centre of the crystal sphere. For someone of your ability this is a target that is difficult to miss. But will the Arrow strike with sufficient force to break or dislodge the sphere?</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect131">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If it is 5-9, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After some deliberation, you decide to let the Drakkar sleep on undisturbed. You climb the stairs and emerge in the centre of a hall on the level above. This vault-like room contains a wealth of grim exhibits, hung upon the walls and displayed in glass-fronted cases. The skulls of rare creatures are displayed beside tanned hides and jewel-encrusted bones. One item in particular catches your eye: it is a statuette, fashioned in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry your maximum quota, you must discard one item in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">To continue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch as the body of the slain Gnagusk slowly rolls off the drawbridge and plummets into the flaming moat. This victory fills you with renewed confidence, but the feeling is all too short-lived. Suddenly, two steely hands fix themselves around your throat, crushing your windpipe. The Helghast is attacking you from behind and, as you struggle to break free, its iron-hard fingers close ever tighter: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The two Drakkarim cackle at your plight as they approach the drawbridge, their swords drawn ready to avenge the death of their pet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Zavaghar shrieks in agony and comes crashing to the floor, its limbs flailing and its jaw chattering wildly as it ekes out the last throes of death.</p>
- <p><quote>No! No! No!</quote> screams Arch Druid Cadak, his voice filled with anger and bitter frustration. <quote>It cannot be! It cannot be!</quote></p>
- <p>Madly he rushes across the pen and stares with open-mouthed incredulity at the carcass of the huge Zavaghar, his eyes wide with disbelief. Meanwhile, you have helped Banedon to his feet and the two of you have begun to hurry towards your means of escape which is still perched on the landing platform.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, Cadak recovers from his shock and, seeing the two of you escaping, screams an order to his remaining Drakkarim to prevent you from getting away.</p>
- <p>You reach the winged creature and, using your Magnakai skills, you manage to subdue it to your command. Arrows and crossbow bolts fly past, dangerously close, fired by those Drakkarim who have responded to Cadak's order. You try to ignore these missiles as you mount the Zlanbeast and heave Banedon roughly across its great scaly neck.</p>
- <p>With a sharp kick, you urge the Zlanbeast into the air and, as it soars away from the platform, you glance back to see Cadak shaking his fist and screaming vile curses.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You laugh at his displeasure, but your laughter chokes in your throat when you notice a battery of heavy bolt-throwers lining the battlements above the pens. They are manned by Giak soldiers, and, as you fly past them, they discharge a cloud of deadly missiles.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect341">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using all your strength, you haul yourself into the saddle and hold fast as the Kraan soars upwards into the stormy sky. Frantically you kick and beat the creature with your fists until, reluctantly, it submits to your will.</p>
- <p>Pulling back on the reins, you urge it to go higher. Then a few well-aimed slaps to its horny head persuade it to bear you towards the landing platforms situated above the great North Door. As you draw closer to your chosen destination, you see two platforms which are open and unguarded. One has an arch-shaped portal; the other a wider, oblong-shaped entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you wish to land at the platform with the arch-shaped portal, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you choose to land upon the platform with the oblong-shaped entrance, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The troops have almost finished their grisly meal when a figure, clad in flowing grey robes and a helm of brightly polished steel, swoops down from out of the brooding sky upon the back of a Zlanbeast. He screams orders to the Gourgaz who immediately responds by cursing and slapping his tired troops into line. The grey rider berates the sorry-looking squad before finally taking to the skies once more. Stung into action by his harsh words, the Gourgaz officer leads his unit away at the double.</p>
- <p>Curiosity prompts you to follow them, although you take care to remain hidden from view. They zig-zag through a maze of back streets before arriving at the approach road to a large hall. Here a pitched battle is taking place between two warring factions: one side wearing uniforms of orange cloth, the other clad in blue-green.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>For several minutes you observe the carnage taking place as the two groups fight for control of the hall. The fighting soon escalates to the surrounding ruins and wisely you decide it best to leave this area before you, too, become caught up in the fighting.</p>
- <p>You notice a road away to your right which leads directly to the citadel. It is virtually deserted and seems to offer the best escape route from the battle zone. However, you have covered barely a hundred yards when you are suddenly confronted by a unit of Drakkarim Death Knights, reinforcements freshly arrived from the citadel itself.</p>
- <p>Quickly you dive into a side street and run as fast as I you can, but the Death Knights have seen you and, despite their heavy armour, they give chase determinedly.</p>
- <p>The street soon ends at a junction where two roads branch away, one to the left, the other to the right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you do not possess this skill or do not wish to use it, you can take either the left road, by <link-text>turning to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">Or the right road, by <link-text>turning to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fiery Arrow strikes the creature's throat but fails to penetrate. With a high-pitched whine, the steel-tipped shaft ricochets harmlessly away into the hall. There is no time now for a second shot so you hurriedly shoulder your Bow and draw a hand weapon ready. Sensing victory within its grasp, the creature emits a gurgling shriek and comes bounding forwards. You get set to meet its advance, yet, when it is only ten feet away, it suddenly opens its mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor passes through a series of interconnecting caverns, some of which are occupied by lowly Giak slaves engaged in menial tasks, none of whom notice your stealthy passing. After almost an hour, you arrive at a cavernous hall filled with iron cages in which lie countless Akataz, a breed of leathery war-dogs used by the Drakkarim. Nearby are a group of Drakkarim handlers seated at a table playing cards.</p>
- <p>From the shadows you listen to their idle chatter, hoping to glean clues as to the location of Zagarna's courtroom, but, unfortunately, your patience goes unrewarded. These brutish humanoids seem preoccupied with their game, and the unfairness of their duties here in the Akataz pen. However, from their banal conversation you do learn two interesting facts about the struggle taking place within Kaag. The two warring factions are fighting principally for control over the Giak spawning vats located in the dungeons of this citadel. The vats are the key to power here; they produce both an unending supply of fresh troops and a ready source of raw food for whoever controls them.</p>
- <p>Anxious to continue your quest, you resolve to leave the pen by an archway on the far side. Although confident that your camouflage skills will keep you hidden from the Drakkarim, the hall is full of keen-nosed war-dogs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If your total is 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of the roof when a part of the surface cement crumbles beneath your fingers. You try to reach up and find new purchase but it is too late; you are already falling backwards to the street below.</p>
- <p>On landing you strike your head and lose consciousness. Tragically you never reawaken. Your body is discovered by a Giak patrol who kill you out of hand, thinking you to be an enemy Drakkar spy in disguise.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here in Kaag.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel leads to another hall, but the entrance is blocked by a huge stone statue of Zagarna which has been tipped on to its side. The statue must have shattered on impact for the tunnel exit is almost filled with large boulders. In order to gain access to the hall beyond, you must first clear away some of this heavy debris.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now subtract 1 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <p>The resultant score equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost due to fatigue. (If you picked 0 or 1, your score is zero.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect100">To continue, <link-text>turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the door more closely and soon discover it is locked, held secure by a common deadlock. Confidently you call upon your Magnakai skill of Nexus in an attempt to pick this lock, but to your dismay, you cannot cause the mechanism to disengage. A magical charm has been placed upon this door, making the lock pick-proof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you have neither of these Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few yards of the passage that leads out of the mess hall when suddenly four Drakkarim turn a corner and come striding up the passage towards you. Hurriedly you flatten yourself against the nearest wall and muster your Kai camouflage skills in an attempt to stay hidden.</p>
- <p>The four stride past within an arm's length of your position yet they fail to detect your presence. Once they are inside the hall you peel yourself away from the wall and quickly escape into the passage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a loud <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia>, the Drakkar hits the cobblestones head-first and is knocked unconscious. Quickly you descend the iron stairs and drag his limp body out of sight, fearful that it might be seen by a passing patrol. Already a huge bruise is beginning to discolour his face and you are sure that it will be many hours before he regains consciousness. As you are moving him, you notice that he wears two chains around his neck. To one there is attached a Whistle; to the other a Brass Key. If you wish to keep either of these Backpack Items, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Once you are satisfied that he is well hidden, you climb the stairs and carefully push open the heavy door. At the end of a short corridor there is a landing where a gallery overlooks the cavernous lower level. Nearby there is a staircase, leading down, and to your right a black oak door set flush to the wall.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet and peer over at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You twist aside in time to avoid the liquid, but a small quantity still splashes your right shoulder and cheek. Instantly there is a sizzling hiss and you feel a searing pain engulf your head and upper body as this highly corrosive acid bites deep into your flesh: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Only your innate Magnakai skill of Nexus saves you from sustaining what, for any lesser mortal, would have undoubtedly been a fatal injury. Shaken by this ferocious and unexpected attack, you scramble to the safety of a nearby pillar. Another stream of acid comes arching towards you, but only to splash harmlessly against the blue-green stone.</p>
- <p>A glance around the pillar prompts a third stream of acid, only this time the creature ejects barely a trickle from its hook-like beak. It has exhausted its corrosive venom. Hungry for vengeance you emerge from your hiding place and face the octopoid once more, determined more than ever to defeat it in combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your weapon slams into the centre of the crystal and cracks it open. There is a flash of sparks, then the shimmering wall of light which imprisons Banedon flickers, and disappears completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you deal your final killing blow, the bodies of the three Vordaks rapidly dissolve into a foul-smelling green gas which is carried away on the breeze. Mindful that the combat may have attracted others of their kind, you sheathe your weapon and escape from the area as quickly as you can. At the end of the street you see an avenue leading off to the south, and another, blocked by rubble, heading off to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to follow the avenue southwards, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you choose to clamber over the rubble which fills the entrance to the west avenue, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last Egorgh crashes lifelessly to the ground, you turn and hurry towards the adjoining passage. Sheathing your weapon as you run, you follow the passage for several minutes before arriving at an empty circular room. The only feature here is a rusty iron ladder fixed precariously to the wall, which ascends through a hole in the ceiling to a level above. There is no other exit from this chamber and so, with caution guiding your every move, you climb the rust-eaten rungs.</p>
- <p>You rise through the hole to find yourself in a corridor which is strewn with human bones. Skeletons lie mixed in tangled heaps and many of the skulls and loose bones seem to have been gnawed. The psychic residues of pain and terror left by these luckless victims presses in upon your senses, making you feel queasy and claustrophobic. With pounding heart you advance along the bone-choked passage, stepping carefully through the skeletons to avoid making a sound. But you have taken less than a dozen steps when something unexpected makes you freeze in your tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hastily you push Banedon aside then dive to avoid the falling net, the sheer speed with which you react saving you both from becoming trapped like two foxes in a snare. Quickly you spring to your feet and rush to help your fallen companion. As you stoop to lift him, you hear a deep voice cursing you quietly in the shadows. You turn to face the voice, weapon in hand, ready to cut him down. But you are shocked to the core when you see who it is who emerges into the grey light of the pen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you retreat, drawing a hand weapon in your defence as the two evil-eyed horrors come rushing forwards with murderous intent.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Two evil-eyed horrors rush forward with murderous<br />intent.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="596"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="596"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>2 Xaghash</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you possess the Sommerswerd, double all bonuses it bestows upon you (for the duration of this combat only).</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step back from the dead war-dog and wipe away the splashes of its foul blood from your face. The sound of footfalls outside the door warn you that the noise of the fight has attracted some unwanted attention. A Drakkar shouts, demanding to know who is in the room. You rush to the door and pull across the bolt just in time to prevent him getting in. With the warrior pounding on the door, you turn and run into the adjoining chamber which is littered with Giak bones and half-chewed haunches of meat. To your right you notice another curtained archway, and through its threadbare cloth you see a stone staircase spiralling down into the dark.</p>
- <p>The dingy stone staircase leads down to an empty torchlit chamber, its floor strewn with filthy straw. To the right there is a stout wooden door secured by a rusty drawbolt, and ahead you see a damp passage. Your Magnakai senses tell you that it heads due south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to take a closer look at the door, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you wish to investigate the passage, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A ghostly mist issues from the parting jaws of the throne-statue. You step back, your weapon raised, but it does nothing to protect you from the piercing screech which suddenly fills your head. You reel under the onslaught as, desperately, your Magnakai senses try to block this violent psychic attack. Before you can muster your defences to repel the attack, you suffer shock and injury to your central nervous system: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293"><link-text>Turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you race along the street with the Death Knights hot on your heels, you are confident that you will soon outrun them. However, your confidence is severely shaken when you see that the way ahead is blocked by a hill of rubble, the remains of a collapsed watchtower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With trepidation you follow the passage, praying all the while that Banedon's vision proves to be correct. Then at last your prayers are answered when, in the distance, you catch your first glimpse of the Zlanbeast pens.</p>
- <p>You soon arrive at the entrance to the pens, where, from the safety of the shadows, you stop to observe the activity taking place inside. Lining the walls of the chamber you count more than a dozen cages, each holding a Zlanbeast or several smaller Kraan. Most are feeding, but there are some saddled ready for flight. One of these saddled Zlanbeast is perched nearby on a landing platform from where it casts its idle gaze upon the city far below.</p>
- <p>You are contemplating how long it will take you and Banedon to reach the platform and climb aboard the waiting Zlanbeast, when suddenly you notice something strange that arouses your suspicions: there are no handlers or guards on duty in the pen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the door slightly ajar then quickly gather up some sacks and boxes which you stack in a heap near the opening. The guttering wall torch that illuminates this chamber provides the flame to set this little makeshift bonfire alight. Soon the tinder-dry pile is ablaze, sending clouds of acrid blue-grey smoke billowing along the corridor towards the guards.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect175">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Barbed arrows whistle past you to shatter on the marble steps as you force your aching legs to cover the final twenty feet which separate you from the safety of the tunnel ahead.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If your total is 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If it is 2&endash;6. <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch with fascination as the two wispy figures glide to a halt before the door. Their dark bodies are amorphous and indistinct, as if some spell or charm was preventing you from focusing clearly upon their true forms. They whisper words in a sombre musical tone, and slowly the slab of steel recedes into the wall.</p>
- <p>A sudden probe invades your mind; you have been detected psychically. The wispy creatures solidify into the shapes of two dragon-like creatures, each the size of a small horse and, as they turn to face you, the probe in your mind is transformed into a red-hot lance of pain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage runs in an uninterrupted straight line for several hundred yards before arriving at a great circular room constructed of granite blocks. Cold air falls from a dark opening overhead and dozens of ropes and pulleys extend from this shaft, hanging down to touch the flag stoned floor. A large square door, furnished with brass and iron studs, is situated to your left. Apart from the shaft it appears to be the only exit from this chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you possess a Brass Key, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you do not have this Backpack Item, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door you find a small chamber, its wood-panelled walls hung with bridles and saddlery. You push the door closed and hold your breath as the footfalls of the Drakkarim steadily grow louder. To your relief, they pass by the door and continue without slowing down. When you can detect no sounds in the passageway, you leave this tack room and hurry away.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like a shadow, you slip across the bridge and enter the alleyway unnoticed. At the far end of this narrow, foul-smelling passage you see the iron staircase which ascends to an arched portal, an opening which is framed by the coils of a black stone serpent. Cautiously you climb the stairs, taking care to avoid those steps eaten through by rust, your eyes fixed upon the portal above. Suddenly you freeze in your tracks when a splash of sparks illuminates the face of a Drakkar warrior who is standing on guard in the shadows. He is striking a flint, trying desperately to ignite a braided cord with which to light the briar pipe clenched between his rot-blackened teeth. Beside him, propped against a heavy iron door, is a spear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai Discipline of Telegnosis, you induce a trance that allows your conscious mind to leave your physical body and float across the fiery moat towards Banedon's prone form. Telepathically you call to him, trying to awaken him to consciousness, but you are unable to make contact. Then unexpectedly, your psychic calls are answered by a blood-chilling scream.</p>
- <p>Horror floods your mind when you realize that the person before you is not your friend Banedon&emdash;it is a Helghast. As the creature rises and its features twist and distort before your gaze, you cast an anxious glance back across the moat to the place where your physical body stands. Through the great door come two Drakkarim guards behind a slavering boar-like creature which is straining on its leash. With relish they release the beast and it bounds towards your inanimate body, its jaws snapping wildly. Fear blazes scarlet as you will your spirit towards your body, desperate to reunite before the boar-thing tears your flesh to shreds.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 20 or more, add 1 to the number you have picked. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is 19 or less, deduct 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An arrow strikes your friend in the side and silently he falls to his knees, his hands still clinging to you for support. You stoop to lift him, but suddenly there is a flash of light and a blinding pain fills your head. The pain soon passes, but it is replaced by a blackness which fills your vision. You feel yourself falling forwards into an infinite void, as if you had, in the middle of a moonless night, just stepped over the edge of a towering cliff. Reluctantly you surrender to the sensation for it is the last sensation you will ever feel.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step back from the slain bodies of these two deadly foes, and lean against a table for support until your strength returns. By chance, you notice a strange key lying there. It has been carved from a green metallic substance which radiates a dim, phosphorescent light.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Green Key, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in your tunic pocket.</p>
- <p>As soon as your strength returns, you leave this chamber and press on with your search for Guildmaster Banedon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133"><link-text>Turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint across the empty street and crouch at the base of the tower wall. The brick surface is plastered with mouldering grey cement and, as you look up at the roof twenty feet above, you steel yourself for what could prove to be a difficult climb.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess a Rope, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If it is 4-6, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few minutes later you see two Giaks coming down the corridor, both carrying wooden buckets filled with sand. Hesitantly they push open the door, tip the sand haphazardly over the smouldering remains of the fire, then turn and scurry away.</p>
- <p>For a while there is a hubbub of activity in the hallway as the guards and the Giaks speculate at length about the cause of the fire. While you are waiting for things to calm down, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (unless you possess Grand Huntmastery).</p>
- <p>Your first plan having failed, you decide instead to exercise your Kai skills of persuasion, aided by the use of the discarded Drakkar uniform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw back the bolt and push the rickety door. It opens out to a passageway which runs alongside the abattoir, deserted and empty save for a few piles of Giak bones freshly stripped of their flesh.</p>
- <p>You follow this passage to its end, keeping to the shadows to minimize the risk of being seen by those who may be lurking in the ruins, yet, unfortunately, you neglect to notice the Kraan which are circling high above. As you reach the end of the passage and turn the corner, three of these flying spawn come swooping down out of the smoky sky to batter you with their claw-tipped wings. Twice you are knocked down before you manage to draw your weapon and fight back.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>3 Kaag Kraan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you possess the skill of Kai-surge and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, double any psychic combat bonuses you may be entitled to (for the duration of this combat only).</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Defiantly you face the Helghast, your weapon at your side. The creature looks upon you and sneers, revealing two sharp fangs which protrude from its lower jaw. It emits a chilling cackle, full of hatred and contempt, and its eyes blaze like two hot coals as it confidently quickens its gait. You take a breath and utter the word of power that you learned from your mentor, Lord Rimoah: <quote>Gloar!</quote></p>
- <p>The word forms a ball of energy that speeds across the hall and slams into the approaching Helghast. The force of this power-word lifts the creature into the air and sends it tumbling, like some hideous rag doll, backwards into the flame-filled moat.</p>
- <p>Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the all-consuming fire. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, but years of fierce battle discipline soon override their anxiety and, like two automatons, they raise their swords and continue to advance towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Veterans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hovering shadow is changing shape once more. It expands and thickens, its misty outline now becoming hard and clearly defined. Your heart quickens when the transformation is complete for now you see before you a scaly dragon, with frosty-white skin and eyes as black as deep space. It fixes you with a murderous gaze and opens a mouth that is packed with razor-sharp fangs. Then a chilling gust of super-cold breath blows over you, leaving you shivering. Your Magnakai skills save you from being instantly frozen to death by this icy blast, but they will not keep you safe from the creature's fangs, its horny tail, or its sword-like claws. With a hungry growl, the dragon comes stalking forwards. Its jaw hangs open in expectation of an easy feast.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A scaly dragon with frosty white skin and razor-sharp<br />fangs fixes you with a murderous gaze.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="567"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="567"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Ice dragon (polymorphed Nadziranim)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kraan glides towards the semi-ovoid platform and you swing one leg over its neck in readiness to leap from the saddle the moment it lands. With graceful agility, you jump the last few feet on to the platform and run through the open entrance. A Giak Kraan-handler suddenly appears before you, but your quick wits and Kai camouflage skills keep you from being seen. As he shuffles out on to the platform to tend to the screeching Kraan, you run towards the rear of the pen where there are two exits: one to the south, the other to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you wish to enter the south arch, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you choose to enter the west arch, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An arrow clips your forearm, making you cry out in pained surprise: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p><quote>It's no good, Banedon,</quote> you shout, as you watch the Drakkarim rushing towards you, <quote>we'll have to take our chances in the pen.</quote></p>
- <p>Cursing your predicament you turn around and hurry back towards the waiting ambush. But you have taken less than five steps inside the pen when an unexpected sound makes you look up. To your horror, you see a weighted net falling from the ceiling directly on to your heads.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you land the killing blow which parts the head of this ghastly Vordak, it shrieks a cry of alarm that attracts a Zlanbeast circling in the smoky sky above. The winged reptilian answers its call by swooping down and raking you with its serrated beak.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 1 to this number. The resulting total is equivalent to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose due to the Zlanbeast's attack.</p>
- <p>Before you can retaliate, the winged creature soars into the air and disappears. Cursing its departure, you look down to see that the body of the slain Vordak is no longer there. It has transformed into a foul-smelling green gas.</p>
- <p>Mindful that the Zlanbeast might summon others of its kind, you sheathe your weapon and escape from the area as quickly as you can. At the end of the street you see an avenue leading off to the south, and another, blocked by rubble, heading off to the west.</p>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you wish to follow the avenue southwards, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you choose to clamber over the rubble which fills the entrance to the west avenue, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you step over the twitching remains of the three Plaak and continue along the tunnel without looking back. Several hundred yards later you arrive at an empty circular room. The only feature here is a rusty iron ladder fixed precariously to the wall, which ascends through a hole in the ceiling to a level above. There is no other exit from this chamber and so, with caution guiding your every move, you climb the rust-eaten rungs.</p>
- <p>You rise through the hole to find yourself in a corridor which is strewn with human bones. Skeletons lie mixed in tangled heaps and many of the skulls and loose bones seem to have been gnawed. The psychic residues of pain and terror left by these luckless victims presses in upon your senses, making you feel queasy and claustrophobic. With pounding heart you advance along the bone-choked passage, stepping carefully through the skeletons to avoid making a sound. But you have taken less than a dozen steps when something unexpected makes you freeze in your tracks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a triumphant growl, the Akataz rips free of the curtain and comes leaping at your chest. Hurriedly you step back, unsheathing your weapon as you struggle to defend yourself from its slavering jaws.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akataz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This war-dog is especially susceptible to psychic attack. If you can and wish to use a psychic attack during combat, double all bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you win this combat in four rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you win this combat in five rounds or longer, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel the heat singe your skin as the stream of flame comes speeding towards your face. Guided purely by instinct, you throw yourself to the floor in a desperate attempt to avoid being sprayed by this stream of liquid fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The vines are rope-thick and immensely tough. Despite their thorns, which repeatedly snag your cloak, you find it easy to climb up the shaft to the level above. However, as you approach the level, the thorns begin to grow at an alarming rate. They pierce your clothing and, when they puncture your skin, you feel an agonising pain course through your body. Like the teeth of a vampire, the thorns allow the bloodsucking vines to leech your life's blood: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Half-blinded by the pain and loss of blood, you fail to see the pair of Drakkarim Death Knights who are standing close to the edge of the shaft on this level. Your cries of agony startle them and, with brutal efficiency, they tear you away from your thorny prison and throw you to the ground. Through a red haze of pain you glimpse them unsheathing their swords with the intention of striking you dead.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Death Knights</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">37</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In desperation you throw up your hands to shield your face as the spiked log comes hurtling down the stairs. It hits you, impaling your chest upon two of its deadly sharpened staves, and rolls you down the stairs to the street below. You suffer terrible wounds and, mercifully, death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in Kaag.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage leads directly to a huge hall constructed of fiery red granite. It is lit by scores of braziers placed at regular intervals around the walls, and the atmosphere is heavy with the stench of ash and sulphur. Tapestries woven of metal thread adorn the far wall, making it gleam dully in the scarlet light. They depict scenes of evil grandeur: vast molten landscapes, like the surfaces of suns, all furiously ablaze.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you step into the hall, passing between two great pillars which flank the entrance. The air is scorchingly hot (although you have experienced hotter places here in Kaag) and your senses are dulled by it. Far off in the distance, through the rising heat, you glimpse a tunnel which descends to a lower level of the citadel.</p>
- <p>You are contemplating avoiding this hall by turning back and retracing your steps to the junction, when suddenly you hear the sound of flapping wings high above. You look up and a shiver runs the length of your spine when you see two malicious eyes staring down at you from the shadows of the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Anger wells up in the guard's face when you refuse to answer him.</p>
- <p><quote>Okak gaz!</quote> he growls, and thrusts his spear murderously at your chest. With ease you sidestep the attack and, as you move, you take hold of the shaft and pull him off balance. With a yelp of fear the brutish Drakkar stumbles and falls headlong down the steps towards the alley below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel your strength waning as the Helghast's steely fingers claw relentlessly into your throat: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. In sheer desperation you twist and writhe like a snake in a last-ditch attempt to free yourself from its deadly grip. For an instant its hold falters and you exploit this weakness to the full. You grab the creature's sleeves and, with a swerve of your hips, you send it hurtling over your shoulder. With a wail of abject terror, the Helghast is sent tumbling off the bridge to fall, face first, into the flame-filled moat.</p>
- <p>Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the moat. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, then they turn and run towards the open chamber door. Determined not to let them escape, you give chase and catch up with them within a few yards of the entrance.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From out of the mist-filled jaw there emerges a small black creature covered in shaggy fur. Its head is white, cut with dark bony ridges and studded with running sores that encircle its flaming red eyes.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A small, black, shaggy creature with flaming red eyes<br />emerges from the mist-filled jaw.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="676"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="676"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You raise your weapon and get ready to strike as it stalks nearer, but your concentration is momentarily broken when you notice a wispy shadow emerging from the alcove on the far side of the hall. It is a Nadziranim sorcerer. Fearful of its purpose, you turn away from the furry creature and make a dash towards the ivory staircase, intent on reaching Banedon as quickly as possible. The stalking creature, thinking that you are running in fear, immediately gives chase and comes bounding towards you, determined to intercept you before you reach the steps.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your advanced tracking senses to bear and, almost at once, you detect an ambush has been laid for you in this pen. An elaborate magical screen has been erected to camouflage and keep hidden the warriors who are, at this very moment, lying in wait for you and Banedon to appear.</p>
- <p>Anxiously, you peer into the pen, scrutinizing every shadow for some clue to the ambushers' whereabouts, but you are unable to spot their positions. The saddled Zlanbeast looks so inviting, yet your hopes of escape are tempered by the desire to keep yourself and Guildmaster Banedon alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to attempt to reach the Zlanbeast and escape as quickly as you can, hopefully before the ambushers can stop you, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you decide to retreat from the pens and go in search of an alternative escape route, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Doomwolf howls its death-cry and crashes to the floor, you hear the sound of booted feet running along the passageway outside. The noise of combat and the Doomwolf's last howl have drawn a squad of Drakkarim to this cell.</p>
- <p>Quickly you cross to the room's solitary window. It is criss-crossed with iron bars, but on closer examination you discover that they are loose and badly corroded. A swift blow with the heels of your hands is enough to dislodge them, allowing you to escape with ease.</p>
- <p>Outside the window there is a covered courtyard. You crouch in the shadows while you wait for a group of Drakkarim stablehands to disappear, then you cross to the far side, climb a low wall, and make your escape into the ruins beyond.</p>
- <p>For over a mile you wend your way through derelict buildings before you happen upon an avenue which is surprisingly clear of debris and obstructions. You are conscious that perhaps it is too clear, offering you no cover at all from the tall buildings that line this route to the centre of Kaag. You decide to trust to the ruins rather than run the risk of being detected out in the open. However, within a matter of minutes you are confronted by a new hazard. The ground in this section of the city is unsafe. It is riddled with pot-holes and concealed cellars, covered by rotten wooden beams and slabs of paper-thin plaster. Suddenly one such section gives way beneath your feet and you find yourself falling headlong into coal-black darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your spell causes the sphere to vibrate uncontrollably. Tiny cracks appear in its crystal surface then, with a flash of sparks, it breaks in two. At once the shimmering wall of light which imprisons Banedon flickers, then disappears completely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unable to progress any further in this direction, you return to the Kraan pen and enter the west arch. There you discover a flight of stairs which ascends through several levels of the citadel until it finally emerges in a vast hall. This chilly place is festooned with icy stalactites. In the dim distance you see the yellowy glow of a warmer chamber and you hurry towards it, taking care not to slip on the treacherous, frost-covered floor.</p>
- <p>You are near the centre of this chamber when the temperature drops dramatically. Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the extreme cold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">To continue, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon the instant of his death, your enemy is consumed by a roaring fire which sprouts from the shaft of his sorcerous weapon. Within the space of a few seconds he is transformed into a heap of red-hot dust.</p>
- <p>Shocked by what has occurred here, and fearful of what may yet happen if you stay any longer, you rush to the crypt door and force it open. Grasping for breath, you race up the short flight of steps and run headlong for cover among the neighbouring ruins. There you find an ideal hiding place. It is concealed from the sky by an upper storey, and it commands an unobstructed view of a deserted plaza, its only means of approach. Here you rest while you consider your next course of action. Restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>During your rest, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">To continue, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rejoin your physical body barely seconds before the creature attacks, but the shock of such a swift transition leaves you temporarily paralysed and unable to move: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As the numbness fades, the boar-thing slams into your chest and sends you reeling backwards across the glassy floor towards the moat. Its great curved tusks deeply gouge your arm and shoulder (lose a further 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Unsteadily you rise to your feet and draw your weapon as the beast attacks once more, this time with its head down, in an attempt to butt you into the fiery moat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Gnagusk</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You increase your speed as you approach the iron door and get ready to push against it, expecting great resistance but, to your complete surprise, the heavy portal swings open the instant you reach out to touch it. A gust of cooling air wafts in your face, encouraging you to step into the hall which lies beyond. Swiftly the iron door slams shut behind you but you pay it no heed. The refreshing coolness and the awesome spectacle of the hall itself commands your complete attention.</p>
- <p>Tiers of glittering gold-veined marble descend to a circular hall where a ring of fluted copper pillars support a platform, shaped like the foredeck of some great ship. Multicoloured rays stream from a crystal sphere suspended above this platform, creating a cage of flickering light at its centre. Sitting in this radiant cage is a pale-skinned man with long blond hair. His knees are drawn up to his chin and his eyes are closed, as if asleep. You recognize him to be Banedon, but still mindful of your encounter with the Helghast, you reserve your judgement.</p>
- <p>A narrow staircase, its hand-rails carved and fashioned from the tusks of Kalte mammoths, leads directly to the platform. Cautiously you descend the tiers, cross the floor, and advance towards these stairs, stopping only when you reach a granite throne positioned directly opposite the staircase. The back and arms of this crude seat have been chiselled to resemble a lion-like creature sitting on its haunches, and it is from here that you attempt to communicate telepathically with the sleeping man.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Multicoloured rays stream from a crystal sphere into<br />the circular hall where the blond, pale-skinned man sits.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>At first there is no response. Then, wearily, he raises his head and forces open his eyes. His face is haggard and lined with fatigue, but the look of extreme tiredness slowly changes to a smile of recognition when he sees you.</p>
- <p><thought>Lone Wolf&ellips;</thought> the words form slowly in your mind, <thought>thank Ishir you've found me&ellips;</thought></p>
- <p>Convinced now that he truly is your friend Banedon, you rush towards the steps, eager to free him from his prison. Then you sense something is wrong and you skid to a halt at the foot of the steps. Banedon's weary smile has changed to a wide-eyed look of fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you set foot upon the dusty floor you discover that it is not what it seems. It is not solid and rapidly you sink up to your chest in a pool of fine grey grit. You throw out your arms to try to slow your descent, but the more you struggle to get free, the faster you sink.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you do not possess this skill or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Eventually your persistence pays off. The lock clicks open and the door swings back to allow you to pass through into the chamber beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter a street bordering the square and move quickly towards a junction in the far distance. All the while you keep to the shadows to minimize the risk of being seen by those lurking in the ruins, yet, unfortunately, you neglect the Kraan who are circling above. As you reach the junction and turn the corner, three of these flying spawn come swooping down out of the smoky sky to batter you with their claw-tipped wings. Twice you are knocked down before you manage to draw your weapon and fight back.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>3 Kaag Kraan</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you possess the skill of Kai-surge and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, double any psychic combat bonuses you may be entitled to (for the duration of this combat only).</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fifty yards on, the passage turns sharply to the left and you find yourself staring at an iron-banded door. Luckily this portal is unlocked and you hurry through it, pausing only for a few seconds to bolt it shut behind you before continuing on your way.</p>
- <p>Shortly you arrive at a deserted stairwell where you begin a long and laborious ascent. You climb more than sixty levels of the citadel before reaching the top. During your climb, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Directly opposite the landing at the top of the stairs is a massive bronze portal, its surface inlaid with intricate symbols cast in silver and gleaming gold. A sleeping Drakkar sentry is seated beside this huge door. He snores softly, his leather-helmeted head tilted to his shoulder and his spear lying uselessly at his feet. He is oblivious to your presence as you glide past him and silently push open the great door.</p>
- <p>Beyond the portal lies a massive circular hall, its walls lined with slabs of smooth black rock. Its domed ceiling rises more than a hundred feet to point directly above a dais positioned at the centre of the chamber. A flame-filled moat surrounds this circular platform whereupon lies the unconscious body of a blond-haired man clad in silken blue robes. Your spirits soar when you recognize the designs embroidered upon the robe for they are the symbols of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star&emdash;the magician's guild of Sommerlund. For a moment your joy at having found your friend is dampened when your Magnakai senses warn that great danger is close at hand. Prompted by this presentiment you hurry towards the moat, to where an iron drawbridge stands raised, and begin to crank its handle in order to lower it across the fiery divide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you possess Telegnosis and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you possess neither of these Grand Master Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature tries to dodge your speeding shaft but it is too slow. The Arrow skewers its lower jaw, causing the beast to shriek out loudly in pained surprise. However, despite this fearful wounding, it does not break off its attack. With chilling disregard for pain, it wrenches the Arrow from its jaw and hurls it aside. Unnerved by this display of bravado, you shoulder your Bow as, with a gurgling shriek, the beast comes bounding forwards. You get ready to meet its advance yet, when it is but ten feet away, it suddenly opens its bloodstained mouth wide and spews forth a stream of white-hot liquid fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You struggle to remove the precious herb from your Backpack. Then, with great difficulty, you force yourself to swallow the dry, golden leaves.</p>
- <p>Within a few minutes you feel the Oede countering the insidious virus. Your temperature drops and very soon the battle is over; the virus has been totally eradicated from your bloodstream.</p>
- <p>Once you have fully recovered, you check your equipment before climbing the steps which lead out of this grim cellar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172"><link-text>Turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter a power-word which you direct at the creature's head. The concussive force of this spell hits the beast full in its face, making it falter and stagger back. But it does not delay its advance for very long. Its sheer size and strength enables it to withstand the blow and continue its advance, now doubly determined to fulfil Cadak's command. Hastily you draw a hand weapon as the shadow of the angry beast falls upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128"><link-text>Turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the stairs and emerge in the centre of a hall on the level above. This vault-like room contains a wealth of grim exhibits, hung upon the walls and displayed in glass-fronted cases. The skulls of rare creatures are displayed beside tanned hides and jewel-encrusted bones. One item in particular catches your eye: it is a statuette, fashioned in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry your maximum quota, you must discard one item in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">To continue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lower your head and force yourself to trudge uphill against the storm, your feet sinking ankle-deep into the barren volcanic dust with every laboured step. Keeping your eyes shut tight against the stinging, gritty winds, you trust solely to your Magnakai senses to steer you on the correct course towards the Darkland city. Only when you reach the top of the ridge do you attempt to look around at the bleak domain. The <cite>Skyrider</cite> is lost from sight, shrouded by the swirling grey clouds. Kaag, too, remains hidden for some minutes until a sudden lull in the storm clears the southern vista. Then, what you see makes your blood run cold.</p>
- <p>In your lifetime you have gazed upon many awe-inspiring cities, but few compare with the enormous size and monstrous grandeur of Kaag. A coal-black curtain-wall constructed of massive blocks of smooth, featureless stone, encircles this city, forty miles wide. At its centre there arises a gigantic citadel of black marble, pyramid-shaped and slitted with numerous vents to allow what passes for air to circulate within. Its highest point towers two miles above the desolate plain. Thunder booms and streaks of blue-white lightning earth themselves against its walls, drawn from the rolling storm clouds gathered menacingly overhead.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>At first the fortress seems wholly impregnable, then you notice that the outer wall is not entirely intact. Illuminated by the infrequent electrical flashes, you see that a vast section of the battlements, close to the North Gate, have collapsed. Also, away to the east, a mile-long section has fallen outwards to litter the plain with huge black cubes of stone. You are surprised to note that no attempt has been made to repair these breaches and, consequently, access to the city could be effected at either place with relative ease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to enter Kaag through the breach in the north wall, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you decide instead to enter Kaag through the east wall, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holding Banedon firmly in place across your shoulders, you climb the tiered steps towards the tunnel. The cold dark passage looks most uninviting, but when you hear the sound of a patrol approaching the main doors, you forget your reticence and hurry along the passage to avoid him.</p>
- <p>The dingy passage descends by slope and stair to a rectangular hall which is lined with ancient stone statues, their features made unrecognizable by age. Tar-soaked torches fixed to the two longest walls illuminate this musty chamber with a flickering amber light, and the air is heavy with their oily stench. In the distance you see an archway and the passage continuing away into darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to stop here for a few minutes and try to revive Banedon, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to press on without stopping here, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fell creature pins you to the ground and its steely hands tighten like two vices around your throat. Blackness invades the edges of your vision and, although you twist and buck to break free, you feel your strength ebbing away fast. Soon you are too weak to struggle any longer and, reluctantly, you slip away into a sleep from which you will never awaken. Sadly, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You propel yourself out of the ruins and sprint across the street towards the tower stairs. Everything seems to be going to plan until you are halfway up, when suddenly there is a loud <onomatopoeia>clunk</onomatopoeia>. You look up and, to your horror, you see a heavy wooden log, pierced by a criss-cross of metal staves sharpened at either end, come crashing down the steps towards you. The brutal face of a Drakkar peers over the edge of the tower parapet, watching with gleeful expectation as the great spiked log bounces on the steps and comes spinning straight at you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If it is 4-7, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken less than a dozen steps along the tunnel when the soles of your boots begin to smoulder and give off wisps of smoke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood spell of <spell>Mind Charm</spell>, reinforced by your powerful psychic ability, you convince the two guards to allow you to pass unhindered. They draw back their spears and at once the crackling crimson energy which united them ceases to arc between the shafts.</p>
- <p><quote>You may enter,</quote> they say, without any trace of emotion, and as they stand aside, so the two great doors glide silently open. Steeling yourself, you stride towards the blazing purple light which fills the chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try the handle and discover the door is unlocked. Inside, you find a room lit by four wall sconces. A single bed, a trestle table, a stool and a wooden trunk are the only furnishings in this spartan abode. A filthy curtain partitions this room from the next and, as you approach it, you hear a menacing growl that makes you reach for your weapon. It is the growl of an Akataz: a Drakkarim war-dog.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you possess the Discipline of Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of arrows whistling towards your back provides all the incentive you need to keep running. You bound up the steps and, as the deadly barbed shafts fly past only inches from your back and legs, you carry your friend headlong into the tunnel.</p>
- <p>The dingy passage beyond descends by slope and stair to a rectangular hall which is lined with ancient stone statues, their features made unrecognizable by age. Tar-soaked torches fixed to the two longest walls illuminate this musty chamber with a flickering amber light, and the air is heavy with their oily stench. In the distance you see an archway and the passage continuing away into darkness. You are breathless from your narrow escape and feel the need to rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you wish to stop here for a few minutes to rest, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you decide to press on without stopping here, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you call upon your psychic defences to shield your mind from this attack, but your reflexes have been dulled by the fatigue of recent combat and you react too slowly to prevent some of the Vordaks' destructive energy from reaching your psyche. Lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219"><link-text>Turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control in an attempt to halt the Egorgh advance, but your powers of persuasion are not strong enough to turn away all three of these fearsome hulks. For a moment they halt and settle on their haunches, then, with a chorus of frantic screeches, the creatures come leaping towards you, their mouths agape and their claws extended ready for the kill.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The creatures leap towards you, mouths agape and<br />claws extended, ready for the kill.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="644"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="644"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>3 Egorghs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These creatures are particularly susceptible to psychic attacks; double all bonuses you would normally be entitled to if you choose to employ psychic attacks during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect319-1-foot" idref="sect319-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With trepidation you step into the glimmering column of light and immediately you feel yourself begin to rise. Bands of darkness flick past with growing rapidity, each one a passing floor level of this mountainous citadel. Then you feel yourself slowing to a halt. The column fades and you find yourself standing on a metal dais in the centre of a domed chamber. Ahead you see a great door, forged of Kagonite, and beside it there is a narrow staircase leading down.</p>
- <p>As you approach the door, you notice the lock that secures it. It is inlaid with a series of numbers and, at once, you recognize that they are component parts of a combination lock. One number in the sequence is missing. By tapping the correct number upon the blank square, you will cause the lock to disengage.</p>
- <p>Study the following sequence of numbers carefully. When you think you know what the missing number is, turn to the page that is identical to your answer.<a id="sect319-1" idref="sect319-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
-<illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="sect181.gif" width="386" height="131"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="sect181.pdf" width="386" height="131"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you guess incorrectly, or if you cannot answer the puzzle, <link-text>turn instead to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt of lightning hits the sphere and causes it to vibrate, but the bolt itself is not strong enough to shatter or dislodge it. The curtain of light imprisoning Banedon remains intact and you are forced to abandon the spell and try some other way of freeing him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you possess Magi-magic, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you do not have a Bow, do not possess the Discipline of Magi-magic, or have yet to reach the required Kai rank, <link-text>turn instead to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Drakkarim falls dead at your feet, you turn and help Banedon who has been wounded during the fight. He is bleeding from the upper right arm, but when you examine the wound you discover that it is not as deep as you had first feared. You are helping him to stand when you hear a man's voice cursing you quietly in the shadows. You turn to face this voice, weapon in hand, ready to attack. You command him to show himself, but you are shocked to the core when you see who it is who emerges into the grey light of the pen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lash out at the cube with unerring accuracy, but the moment your weapon connects with it there is a tremendous flash and explosion. A searing gout of flame hurls you backwards to the floor, leaving you blinded and semi-conscious. Lose 15 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have survived this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-fast reflexes save you from being hit by the searing stream of liquid fire. Several droplets splash your tunic and it catches alight (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), but you quickly extinguish the flames. Coolly you raise your weapon and stare the creature defiantly in the eye as it gets ready to pounce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calling upon the secrets of your new-found Kai mastery, you summon from the ground a dense mist which rapidly fills the space between you and the advancing Death Knights. The instant they are lost to sight, you throw yourself flat on your chest to avoid their volley of deadly bolts. They fire, but their missiles pass over where you lie and shatter harmlessly against a distant wall.</p>
- <p>Before they can retreat from the mist to reload, you spring to your feet and rush forwards, catching them unaware. You dodge through their line with ease, and by the time they realize that you have evaded them, and start to give chase, you have passed the junction and have begun to run along the street opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pull away from the body of the dead Gnagusk, the iron drawbridge comes crashing down. The sudden noise makes you spin around and you see the Helghast as it comes rushing across the flaming moat. As it runs, its skin darkens and peels away in tatters as if it was being scorched by some invisible fire. The Drakkarim meet the creature at the end of the bridge and, together, they turn and advance upon you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have none of these Grand Master Disciplines, or choose not to use any of them, <link-text>turn instead to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You invoke the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> and direct it at the sleeping Drakkar. Telepathically, you ask him where the Sommlending wizard is being held prisoner, and at first you detect no reply. You ask again, and this time you get a faint response.</p>
- <p><thought>Above&ellips; high above&ellips; In old Zagarna's courtroom.</thought></p>
- <p>Satisfied that you have gleaned all the information you are likely to from this Drakkar, you climb the stairs and emerge in the centre of a hall on the level above. This vault-like room contains a wealth of grim exhibits, hung upon the walls or displayed in glass-fronted cases. The skulls of rare creatures are displayed beside tanned hides and jewel-encrusted bones. One item in particular catches your eye: it is a statuette, fashioned in the likeness of Darklord Zagarna.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Statuette of Zagarna, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your Backpack. If you already carry your maximum quota, you must discard one item in its favour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">To continue, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you follow the avenue deeper into the black heart of Kaag. This cobbled street, beslimed with nameless refuse, winds its way between mountainous piles of rubble and derelict dwellings. You reach a square where you see huge scarlet flames roaring skywards from a vent in the ground. The flames fill the air with intermittent flashes of blood-red light and billowing clouds of sooty smoke. Shadows play upon the surrounding walls, cast not only by the fire but also by the winged Kraan which swoop back and forth across this section of the city.</p>
- <p>You are watching the Kraan diving and twisting above the rooftops when suddenly your senses alert you to an imminent danger. You sense a troop of Giaks approaching along the avenue towards your hiding place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to avoid them by entering one of the buildings that border the square, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you decide to hurry away from the square, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the door awaits a sumptuous chamber dominated by a magnificent fireplace crafted from blocks of glassy rock. The walls are hung with fine tapestries, looted from the Stornlands during times of war, and you note that the furniture is carved from best Durenese oak.</p>
- <p>You pass through the chamber into an adjoining passage which leads to a library. As you enter, you disturb a robed creature seated at a lectern. Before it can rise or raise the alarm, you draw your weapon and silence it with a swift blow to the base of its skull. Pulling back its hood reveals it to be a Liganim, a thrall of the Nadziranim sorcerers.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Beyond the door lies a sumptuous chamber, walls<br />hung with fine tapestries and furniture carved from Durenese<br />oak.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="642"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="642"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly you hear movement and glance up to see another Liganim peering over the parapet of a gallery which encircles the upper level of this library. The creature, having witnessed the slaying of its companion, lets out a horrified squeal and turns to run towards an archway on the far side of the gallery. Determined to prevent his escape, you lower Banedon to the floor then rush towards a flight of wooden stairs that also lead to the archway. However, as you near the landing at the top of these stairs, two more of the creatures appear from either side, with wands gripped in their clawed hands. They shout a spell-word in the dark tongue and a crackling curtain of energy flares between the two rods, blocking your path. The power-wall looks formidable, but you sense at once that it is really quite weak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you wish to run straight through this magical barrier, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you choose to retreat down the stairs and rejoin your unconscious companion, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Outside the window there is a covered courtyard. You crouch in the shadows while you wait for a group of Drakkarim stablehands to finish their duties here, then you cross to the far side, climb over a low wall, and make your escape into the ruins beyond.</p>
- <p>For over a mile you wend your way through derelict buildings before you happen upon an avenue which is surprisingly clear of debris and obstructions. You are conscious that perhaps it is too clear, offering you no cover at all from the tall buildings that line this route to the centre of Kaag.</p>
- <p>You decide to trust to the ruins rather than run the risk of being detected out in the open. However, within a matter of minutes you are confronted by a new hazard. The ground in this section of the city is unsafe. It is riddled with pot-holes and concealed cellars, covered by rotten wooden beams and slabs of paper-thin plaster. Suddenly one such section gives way beneath your feet and you find yourself falling headlong into coal-black darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you raise your enchanted weapon, the Helghast shrieks in alarm as it recognizes the power you wield. Immediately it breaks off its advance and staggers back towards the bridge, desperate to flee its nemesis. Determinedly you chase after this evil being and, as it reaches the drawbridge, you come to within a sword's length of its skull.</p>
- <p><quote>Die, foul spawn!</quote> you cry, and with one fell sweep of your arm, you send the creature tumbling from the bridge to be consumed by the hungry flames below. Open-mouthed, the two Drakkarim stumble to a halt and stare down into the moat. Nervously they glance at each other, fearful of suffering a similar fate, then they turn and run towards the open door. Determined not to let them escape, you give chase and catch up with them within a few yards of the entrance.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">26</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the chamber by means of a passageway that leads to a circular hall. Here, a column of shimmering blue light descends from a hole in the middle of the roof and passes through a similar hole in the floor. Your senses tingle as you gaze at this column, for you immediately recognize its purpose. Within the confines of the light, gravity is greatly reduced. It is used as a means of transportation, an elevator that can take you to other levels of Kaag, either above or below. The last time you saw one of these devices was in Helgedad, the former principal stronghold of the Darklands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to step into the transporter beam, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you choose to ignore it, you can leave the chamber by means of a spiral staircase adjacent to its north wall. <link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage ends at an open door which leads to a covered courtyard. You wait for a group of Drakkarim stablehands to leave the yard, then you cross to the far side, climb over a low wall, and make your way into the ruins beyond.</p>
- <p>For over a mile you wend your way through derelict buildings before you happen upon an avenue which is surprisingly clear of debris and obstructions. You are conscious that perhaps it is too clear, offering you no cover at all from the tall buildings which line this route to the centre of Kaag.</p>
- <p>You decide to trust to the ruins rather than run the risk of being detected out in the open. However, within a matter of minutes you are confronted by a new hazard. The ground in this section of the city is unsafe. It is riddled with pot-holes and concealed cellars, covered by rotten wooden beams and slabs of paper-thin plaster. Suddenly one such section gives way beneath your feet and you find yourself falling headlong into coal-black darkness.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If your total score is now 0&endash;5, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-fast reflexes and your mastery of the Discipline of Grand Nexus saved you from being hit by the searing stream of liquid fire. Droplets splash on your tunic and it catches alight, but you quickly extinguish the flames before stepping forwards to engage the creature in mortal combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release the straining bowstring but the speed of the war-dog's attack spoils your aim. The Arrow misses by a hair's breadth and shatters against the floor. An instant later the dog is upon you, knocking you down, its fang-filled jaws snapping within inches of your unprotected face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Akataz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">24</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This hound is especially susceptible to psychic attack. If you can and wish to use a psychic attack during combat, double all bonuses to which you are entitled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you win this combat in four rounds, or less, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you win, and combat lasts five rounds, or longer, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steadily you draw an Arrow and take aim at the approaching beast. As the boar-thing comes bounding on to the drawbridge, you let fly your shaft at a point between its great curved tusks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with Bow, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If it is 6-11, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If it is 12 or more, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by instinct, you hurriedly retrieve the statuette from your Backpack and hold it high above your head. Instantly the flames subside and, as the terrible heat dissipates, you hear the voice boom out once more.</p>
- <p><thought>Very well, loyal acolyte,</thought> it says, in an almost condescending tone, <thought>you may pass.</thought></p>
- <p>With a hiss of escaping air, the solid, blue-green metal door slides open to reveal a dark tunnel leading away from the chamber. Eager to continue your search for your captive friend Banedon without further delay, you slip the statuette into your Backpack and hurry through the archway into the darkness beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street continues beyond the mound, heading due south towards the great citadel, the shadow of this edifice looming ever larger. Soon the street opens out to a wide concourse which encircles the citadel and offers access to its great Northern Door.</p>
- <p>The entire door is made of black iron, streaked with rust. Turrets jut from either side, on top of which you can see giant cannon-like weapons, similar to those once employed by the Darklords aboard their ironclad fleets. From the cover of a ruined house you watch the traffic of Giaks and Drakkarim, all clad in orange uniforms bearing the mark of a bloodied scythe. The more you stare at the citadel, the more you are sure that this is where Banedon is being held prisoner. However, entry into the citadel itself looks to be impossible, until, that is, an opportunity unexpectedly presents itself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your weapon, you draw back your right hand and take aim at the sphere. For someone of your ability, it would be difficult to miss hitting this target with a thrown weapon. But will it strike with sufficient force to break or dislodge the sphere?</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mentally you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> while you hold the Drakkar with your eyes. You say nothing, but within moments the brutish soldier breaks off his stare and stands aside, as if you had given him an acceptable answer. With exaggerated bravado, you thrust open the heavy iron portal and stride into the corridor beyond. The door slams shut behind you with a dull boom.</p>
- <p>The corridor ends at a landing where a gallery overlooks the cavernous lower level. Nearby there is a staircase, leading down, and a black oak door set flush to the wall.</p>
- <p>Slowly you approach the gallery's railed parapet and look down at an unnerving sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless from combat, you step away from the two dead Drakkarim, sheathe your weapon, and wipe your blood-spattered brow with the back of your hand. Then, in order to leave no trace, you drag both of the corpses to the edge of the moat and consign them, and their weapons, to the hungry flames.</p>
- <p>A narrow passage near the main door provides an exit from this hall. This leads into a wider tunnel which is flanked on both sides by cages, all empty but showing signs of having recently been occupied by war-dogs and the like. Beyond the cells you discover a chamber strewn with wooden boxes, trunks, sacks and several oak casks. It, too, is empty, although in the far wall there is a stout door with a spy-hole drilled at its centre. Your keen Kai senses detect the faint sound of squealing coming from the other side of this door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to search this chamber, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to peek through the spy-hole, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull on the reins, hoping to steer the Zlanbeast higher in time to clear the whistling cloud of bolts, but the beast lacks the speed and strength to perform such an exacting manoeuvre.</p>
- <p>Suddenly a starburst of pain erupts in your head and the taste of blood fills your mouth. You have been hit in the skull by one of the iron-tipped missiles and death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here on the very threshold of victory.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your efforts to escape are rewarded but only after immense exertion: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You catch hold of the archway and pull yourself to safety, yet your submersion has cost you your money pouch and one item from your Backpack, lost when you first fell into the dusty pool. Erase all your Gold Crowns, and the first item recorded on your Backpack Items list.</p>
- <p>As the effects of the spell wear off, you leave this sinister chamber and head off along the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82"><link-text>Turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the dank passage for over a mile before you reach its end. There you discover an iron door, eaten by rust, its lock made useless by years of acidic corrosion. Using your Magnakai skill of Nexus you free the lock mechanism, then lever open the door to reveal a short flight of steps which are almost unrecognizable beneath a carpet of moss and fungi.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you ascend, clearing the way ahead with your weapon before trusting it to your step. The stairs emerge at street level, in the midst of a once-grand building which now lies in ruin. Through one of its shattered windows you look out upon a concourse littered with more than a dozen Giak dead. Their posture, and the nature of their wounds, tell of a savage street battle fought here within the last few hours. Perched on nearby rooftops are a flock of vulture-like birds, cawing delightedly, their bellies distended by a feast of Giak meat.</p>
- <p>The distant clang and clash of steel tell you that the fighting is not over, it has simply moved on. The noise prompts you to stay crouched in the ruins whilst you consider your next course of action. From this position you survey the street and notice a narrow stairway, directly opposite, which leads down to a crypt door. You focus on the dark portal and sense at once that it is open and unguarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you wish to cross the street and investigate the crypt, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you choose to ignore the crypt, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your hasty casting of the spell, your invisible shield protects you fully against the speeding crossbow bolts. The sight of you having survived such a rain of missiles leaves many of their number staring open-mouthed with shock. You seize the initiative and dodge through their line with ease, and by the time they realize that you have evaded them, and start to give chase, you have already passed the junction and begun to run along the street opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266"><link-text>Turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take aim at the point mid-way between the creature's feral eyes, then release your straining bowstring.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Weaponmastery with Bow, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If your total score is 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If your total score is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you transfer your Bow to your left hand and raise your right, pointing it directly at the shimmering surface of the pool. The octopoid is within a few feet of the pool's edge when you shout out the power words that trigger the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell>. Immediately, a brilliant flash of blue-white light engulfs your palm and a bolt of flame shoots from your index finger towards the pool.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52"><link-text>Turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guards see the approaching clouds of smoke and immediately raise the alarm. Aided by a passing group of Drakkarim and Giaks, the two silver-clad guardians come thundering along the corridor and skid to a halt outside the door. You hear them coughing and cursing, then the door flies open and two luckless Giaks are thrust into the smoky room with orders to put out the blaze.</p>
- <p>Utilizing your Magnakai camouflage skills, and helped by the smoke and confusion, you manage to slip past the Giaks and the others and hurry along the corridor towards the distant doors. To your surprise, the two massive portals open as you approach them. A purple glare blinds you momentarily, forcing you to raise your hand to shield your eyes, but still you keep running until you have passed through the doors.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the face of this deadly trap you draw on all your skills and agility in order to save yourself from a grisly death. As the log falls upon you, you turn sideways and dive headlong between the spinning staves. You land heavily on the stone steps, bruising your hands (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), but you have successfully avoided being impaled upon the terrible steel spikes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213"><link-text>Turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb across the shattered masonry and take cover near an empty window which overlooks the square. Minutes later you see a thin figure clad in red robes, accompanied by six grime-smeared Giaks, enter the square from an alley on the far side. At once you recognize the skeletal features of the robed one: it is a Vordak, an undead spawn of the Darklords.</p>
- <p>The Vordak raises a bony hand and immediately its companions halt. Then, with a sweep of its arm, it slowly scans the ruins bordering the square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Below you is the South Gate of Kaag. Its surface is covered by the hide of Nyxator, preserved by the Darklords as a trophy of Naar's evil power. Nyxator was the first servant of the God Kai to appear on Magnamund and the form he chose to adopt was that of a great dragon. He was the first recipient of Kai's wisdom, a wisdom he encapsulated in the Lorestones for the future good of all who follow the way of Kai.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Below is the South Gate of Kaag, its surface covered<br />by the hide of Nyxator.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="641"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="641"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You stare down at the face of your ancient ancestor and, for a fleeting moment, you detect the trace of a smile upon its fossilized lips. Then, in the next instant, you plunge into a bank of stormy grey cloud and the dread city of Kaag is lost to view.</p>
- <p>By the time you find your way back to the <cite>Skyrider</cite>, the storm has blown itself out. Your return is met with cheers and joyous celebration for your quest has been a great success. Lord Rimoah is especially pleased and he praises you warmly:</p>
- <p><quote>Against all odds,</quote> he says, his voice filled with pride, <quote>you have rescued our friend from the nightmare fortress of Kaag and delivered him safely into the arms of his loyal crew.</quote></p>
- <p>Congratulations, Grand Master Lone Wolf. You have triumphed once again, proving beyond doubt that you embody the ideals of the Kai. You have saved your closest friend from the clutches of the evil druid Cadak and confounded his plans.</p>
- <p>Yet the fight against Evil goes ever on. Soon your courage and skills will be put to the test again, this time in a far distant realm of Magnamund. The nature of the quest and the perils that await you can be found in the next Grand Master adventure entitled:</p>
- <p><a href="&link.15tdc;">The Darke Crusade</a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Sommerlund and The Darklands</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="156" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acchklst.gif" width="385" height="128" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of chart and cross-reference to random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>, <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>, <quote>freestate</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>, and <quote>re-birth</quote> with <quote>rebirth</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Replaced <quote>13-onwards</quote> with <quote>Book 13 onwards</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>gods</quote> with <quote>Gods</quote>. Replaced <quote>their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> with <quote>their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote> under Deliverance. It seems unlikely that the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score would ever be reduced to such a low level. We assume that this was intended to be <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> instead.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> or <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>etc,</quote> with <quote>etc.,</quote>, <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>, and <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>. Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Replaced <quote>infra-vision</quote> with <quote>infravision</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>Bo'sun</quote> with <quote>bo'sun</quote> and <quote>look-outs</quote> with <quote>lookouts</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) Replaced <quote>veterans</quote> with <quote>Veterans</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>the Sword of Helshezag</quote> with <quote>Helshezag</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>) Replaced <quote>rib-cage</quote> with <quote>rib cage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>) Replaced <quote>potholes</quote> with <quote>pot-holes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Replaced <quote>statuette</quote> with <quote>Statuette</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>pin-point</quote> with <quote>pinpoint</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>ice dragon</quote> with <quote>Ice Dragon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>stalagtites</quote> with <quote>stalactites</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>potholes</quote> with <quote>pot-holes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>god</quote> with <quote>God</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>enough for 3 doses. Each dose restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points after combat.</quote> with <quote>enough for 3 doses&emdash;each dose restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points after combat</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>) Replaced <quote>here. within</quote> with <quote>here within</quote> (the word <quote>within</quote> also began on a new line which has also been fixed).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>far-stronger</quote> with <quote>far stronger</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow in your quiver</quote> with <quote>Arrow in your Quiver</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Italicized the speech of the disembodied voice and removed the quotation marks. Replaced <quote>Zargarna</quote> with <quote>Zagarna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Replaced <quote>Bandedon</quote> with <quote>Banedon</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text. Replaced <quote>Spell of <spell>Holding</spell></quote> with <quote>spell of <spell>Holding</spell></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>god</quote> with <quote>God</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Replaced <quote>out-run</quote> with <quote>outrun</quote> and <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>) Replaced <quote>god</quote> with <quote>God</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>any of the above</quote> with <quote>either of the above</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>veterans</quote> with <quote>Veterans</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>war-hound's</quote> with <quote>warhound's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>Grandmastery of Nexus</quote> with <quote>mastery of Grand Nexus</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>spear</quote> with <quote>Spear</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>out-distance</quote> with <quote>outdistance</quote> and <quote>potholes</quote> with <quote>pot-holes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect148">148</a>) Replaced <quote>carcases</quote> with <quote>carcasses</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>Eight</quote> with <quote>Eight,</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>) Replaced <quote>egorghs</quote> with <quote>Egorghs</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Italicized the speech of the disembodied voice and removed the quotation marks.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>) Replaced <quote>Zargarna's</quote> with <quote>Zagarna's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Replaced <quote>clear oily</quote> with <quote>clear, oily</quote> and <quote>clear oily <em>inflammable</em></quote> with <quote>clear, oily, <em>inflammable</em></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect199">199</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>pin-points</quote> with <quote>pinpoints</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>stalagtites</quote> with <quote>stalactites</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>Immmediately</quote> with <quote>Immediately</quote> and <quote>(In</quote> with <quote>(in</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Replaced <quote><a idref="sect331">turn to 331</a></quote> with <quote><a idref="sect311">turn to 311</a></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>) Emphasized <quote>clang</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>) Replaced <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect227">227</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Emphasized the word <quote>both</quote> in the last choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>irresistable</quote> with <quote>irresistible</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>the sword of Helshezag</quote> with <quote>Helshezag</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect240">240</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai-surge</quote> with <quote>Kai-screen</quote>. <a idref="sect184">Section 184</a> speaks of <quote>powerful mind defences</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>liganim</quote> with <quote>Liganim</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>. Emphasized <quote>inflammable</quote> to mirror <a idref="sect192">Section 192</a>. Replaced <quote>clear oily</quote> with <quote>clear, oily</quote> and <quote>clear oily <em>inflammable</em></quote> with <quote>clear, oily, <em>inflammable</em></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect248">248</a>) Replaced <quote>eeks</quote> with <quote>ekes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>egorgh</quote> with <quote>Egorgh</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>torch-lit</quote> with <quote>torchlit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>) Replaced <quote>out-run</quote> with <quote>outrun</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>) Replaced <quote>veterans</quote> with <quote>Veterans</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect295">295</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote> and <quote>potholes</quote> with <quote>pot-holes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>handrails</quote> with <quote>hand-rails</quote> and <quote>commmunicate</quote> with <quote>communicate</quote>. Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote> and <quote>egorgh</quote> with <quote>Egorgh</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Removed the quotation marks from the quotation of Banedon's speech in favour of italicizing the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>liganim</quote> with <quote>Liganim</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>potholes</quote> with <quote>pot-holes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Replaced <quote>potholes</quote> with <quote>pot-holes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect335">335</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Italicized the speech of the disembodied voice and removed the quotation marks.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>spyhole</quote> with <quote>spy-hole</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>bowsting</quote> with <quote>bowstring</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6-12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13-20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) This section corresponds to the correct answer to the Kagonite door lock.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>) This section corresponds to the correct answer to the lock on the exit from the torture chamber of the Nadziranim.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>) This section corresponds to the correct answer to the lock on the <quote>stout steel-sheathed doors</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Presumably by <quote>double all bonuses it bestows upon you</quote> you are meant to receive a 16 point bonus to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Kika are one-tenth of the value of a Gold Crown and also take up one-tenth of the space of a Gold Crown.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect14">Section 14</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect22">Section 22</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect37">Section 37</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect53">Section 53</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect72">Section 72</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect89">Section 89</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect142">Section 142</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect169">Section 169</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect193">Section 193</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect218">Section 218</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect226">Section 226</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect229">Section 229</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect263">Section 263</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect281">Section 281</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect293">Section 293</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect300">Section 300</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect318">Section 318</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect328">Section 328</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect350">Section 350</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Sommerlund and the Darklands</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect82">Section 82</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect85">Section 85</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect88">Section 88</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect127">Section 127</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect181">Section 181</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect200">Section 200</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect220">Section 220</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect224">Section 224</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect227">Section 227</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect240">Section 240</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect248">Section 248</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect250">Section 250</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect279">Section 279</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect309">Section 309</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect319">Section 319</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
- </section>
-</gamebook>
-
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-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.5 2006/11/21 17:40:42 jonathan.blake
-Various changes
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/03/26 16:22:12 jonathan.blake
-Adding Illustrator Transcription credits that went missing since
-The Masters of Darkness
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 06:41:19 jonathan.blake
-*** empty log message ***
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:16 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.4 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/11/07 17:00:33 jblake
-Fixed a couple validity errors and tweaked formatting.
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/11/07 16:46:00 jdougan
-- Inserted title into the proper place
-- Copied front matter to separate file; pasted formatted front matter from PLoR; then re-pasted appropriate paragraphs (TSSF, Equipment, Improved Disciplines, Wisdom)
-- re-altered all occurrences of "ie" to "i.e."
-- corrected credits
-- Game Rules: left unaltered from PLoR the list of Special Items that can be carried over from Kai/Magnakai adventures
-- Deliverance: re-altered COMBAT SKILL to ENDURANCE
-- Fixed hard breaks leftover from OCR
-- Inserted &endash; where necessary
-- inserted 46 occurrences of &emdash;
-- Fixed OCR character recognition flaws (for right-side smart quote, equivalent for left-side smart quote)
-- Corrected miscellaneous hyphenations that reflect the original page typesetting.
-- <quote></quote> and ' both dealt with
-- Inserted Backmatter template
-- fixed non-listed available items
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 17:06:07 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
-All occurrences of "ie" in the Frontmatter were changed to "i.e."
-
-In description of "Deliverance", changed COMBAT SKILL to ENDURANCE, as in later editions, and also because it does not make sense - it is not possible (or very, very unlikely) for your Combat Skill to fall to below 8.
-
-In "Equipment - How to use it", under "Weapons", changed the bonus for combat skill from "3" to "5", once again as in later editions and due to the description of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning.
-
-In the example for the rules of combat, the bonus for using Kai-surge is changed from "3" to "8", for consistency with the rules in the Grand Master disciplines section. Therefore I changed all the numbers in the example further on where appropriate.
-==>JDOUGAN: I believe this might have been undone in the front-matter paste.
-
-Section 23
-The word "raised" should be changed to "razed"
-
-Section 31
-The word "of" should be added to the sentence "They comprise a line..." (so it reads: 'They comprise of a line..)
-
-section 36 3rd paragraph,
-the words "first you" should be swapped around
-
-Section 51 last line
-the hyphen between "much" and "needed" is not needed
-
-section 65 2nd paragraph
-the hyphen between "recently" and "cleared" is not needed
-
-section 108, second last line
-"themsleves" should be spelt "themselves"
-
-section 126, second last line
-"Its" should be "It"
-
-section 149, second last line
-"is" should be inserted between "second" and "a"
-
-section 150, paragraph 9, first line
-"weapons enough" should either be "weapons, enough" or "enough weapons"
-
-section 156
-What if your endurance score is below 15? I reckon that in this case, game over!
-
-section 158
-The links for the Kai alchemy should be swapped - you learn "halt missile" at the rank of Sun Knight
-
-section 241, not really errata, more of a clarification
-of course you can only choose to fire again if you have another arrow
-
-section 257, 6th line of 2nd paragraph
-the hyphen in "less-enchanting" is not needed
-
-section 264, 3rd line of 3rd paragraph
-"I've heard tell..." does not make sense, perhaps "I've heard tale(s)" section
-JDOUGAN: stet. Acceptable informalism (particularly common in the American South)
-
-299, paragraph after list, 5th line
-there is no need for the "s" in "Action Charts" section 343
-note: you need at 3 arrows to follow the link to 180
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>The Darke Crusade</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2004</year><month>1</month><day>14</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are the warrior Lone Wolf&emdash;Kai Grand Master of Sommerlund. In the distant realm of Nyras a bitter war is waging between the brave knights of Lencia and the evil Drakkarim. The Lencians have won many battles, but now the Drakkarim leader&emdash;Warlord Magnaarn&emdash;is near to finding the Doomstone of Darke. If he should succeed he will be capable of destroying the Lencians once and for all.</p>
- <p>In <cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>, you must journey through the infernal Hellswamp, trek deep into the forests of northern Nyras and brave the heat of battle. Will you succeed and save your allies? Or will you fall victim to Warlord Magnaarn?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta><title>Table of Contents</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To the spirit of San Diego&emdash;America's Finest City.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Kenny Wong</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Action Charts</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Kenny Wong</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Ingo Klöcker<br />Christopher Lundgren<br />Simon Osborne<br />Thomas Wolmer<br />Jody Williams</dd>
-<!-- <dt>PDF Layout</dt>
- <dd></dd>-->
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
-<!-- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd></dd>-->
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="tssf-1-foot" idref="tssf-1">
- <p>The Drakkarim land of Nyras has been referred to as <quote>Nyraz</quote> in previous publications. We have left it as it stands in this book due to its consistent use here and under the assumption that the author intended this name change.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of your élite warrior caste.</p>
- <p>It is the year MS 5076 and twenty-six years have passed since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar, the King of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain&emdash;the Darklands&emdash;and caused the destruction of their leader, Archlord Gnaag, and the seat of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Northern Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, most notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war, which allowed the Freeland armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Skilfully their commanders exploited the chaos and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
- <p>For six years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction, the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a Second Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well under way. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possess latent Kai skills and all show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery, has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai Lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai monastery and organized the training of the Second Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded and, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose to their new-found responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the monastery, one hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power that you had rediscovered during your quest for the Magnakai. It was here, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, that you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two most able advisors&emdash;Banedon and Rimoah&emdash;you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master Disciplines, and grasp the fundamental secrets of Left-handed and Old Kingdom Magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
- <p>At this time many changes were occurring beyond the borders of Sommerlund. In the regions to the northeast of Magador and the Maakengorge, the Elder Magi of Dessi and the Herbwardens of Bautar were working together in an effort to restore the dusty volcanic wasteland to its former fertile state. It was the first tentative step towards the reclamation of all the Darklands. However, their progress was painfully slow, and both parties were resigned to the fact that their efforts to undo the damage caused by the Darklords would take not years but centuries to complete.</p>
- <p>In the far west, the Drakkarim had retreated to their homelands and were engaged in a bloody war against the Lencians. Much of southern Nyras<a id="tssf-1" idref="tssf-1-foot" class="footnote"/> had been reclaimed by the armies of King Sarnac, the Lencian commander, and his flag now flew over territory which, two thousand years ago, had once been part of Lencia.</p>
- <p>Following the destruction of the Darklords of Helgedad, the Giaks, the most prolific in number of all of Gnaag's troops, fled into the Darklands and sought refuge in the gigantic city-fortresses of Nadgazad, Aarnak, Gournen, Akagazad and Kaag. Within each of these hellish strongholds fierce fighting broke out as remnants of the Xaghash (lesser Darklords) and the Nadziranim (evil practitioners of Right-handed Magic who once aided individual Darklord masters) fought for control. It is widely believed that by the time the Elder Magi and the Herbwardens reach the walls of these strongholds they will encounter no resistance; the occupants will have long since brought about their own extinction. Elsewhere, throughout Northern Magnamund, peace reigns victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdom rejoice in the knowledge that the age of the Darklords has finally come to an end. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of Naar come in many guises and there are those upon Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
- <p>Only a year ago the evil Cener Druids of Ruel attempted to enact Naar's revenge. Secretly, in the laboratories of their foul stronghold of Mogaruith, they had laboured to create a virulent plague virus capable of killing every living creature upon Magnamund, save their own kind. Word of their terrible plan reached Lord Rimoah who immediately urged the rulers of the Freelands to raise armies and invade Ruel. Hurriedly they complied, but the invasion ended in disaster. Seven thousand fighting men entered Ruel intent on storming the fortress of Mogaruith and razing it to the ground. Seven thousand marched into the dark realm; only seventy emerged alive. The Ceners were within days of perfecting their ultimate weapon when you took up the challenge and ventured alone into Mogaruith.</p>
- <p>Despite overwhelming odds you thwarted their evil plan by destroying the virus and the means by which it was created.</p>
- <p>After emerging from Ruel triumphant, your quest fulfilled, you returned home to Sommerlund and the Kai monastery where you resumed your duties as Grand Master. Three months later, on the day that saw the first fall of winter snow, you were visited by Lord Rimoah. Once again he found himself the reluctant bearer of ill news. Your friend Guildmaster Banedon, whilst helping with the reclamation of wastelands close to the Maakengorge, had been abducted by a war-band of Giaks under the command of Nadziranim sorcerers. A rescue was attempted, but ruthlessly the Nadziranim obliterated those who tried to follow their escape into the Darklands. It was feared that the Nadziranim would try to extract from Banedon the secrets of Left-Handed Magic, so that they might marry it to their own foul sorcery. Such an outcome would have given them extraordinary power, power enough to revive the Darklands. A previous attempt to unite the two paths of Magic had resulted in catastrophe for Sommerlund. In the year MS 5050, Vonotar the Traitor, a magician from the same guild as Banedon, had betrayed his homeland in exchange for the promise of Nadziranim power. It was his act of treachery which brought about the invasion of Sommerlund and the destruction of the First Order of the Kai.</p>
- <p>Banedon's survival depended upon a swift rescue from Kaag. Mindful of all that was at stake, courageously you volunteered to enter the city-fortress alone in an attempt to save your friend.</p>
- <p>Despite fierce odds you gained entry to Kaag, located Banedon, then snatched him from the foul denizens of that city by way of a daring aerial escape from the upper levels of their great citadel. Banedon was
-severely weakened by his ordeal at the hands of the Nadziranim and, had it not been for your timely intervention, he would certainly have perished in that grim city-fortress.</p>
- <p>The rescue of Guildmaster Banedon and his safe return to Sommerlund was cause for much celebration, especially in the streets and guildhalls of his native city of Toran. For several days you allowed yourself to be fêted by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star before returning to your monastery where, with a feeling of quiet satisfaction, you gladly resumed your duties as Kai Grand Master.</p>
- <p>So the year ended and another began, yet even before the snows of winter had begun to thaw, once again your unique skills were being sought in the relentless struggle against Evil. This time the plea for help arrived by way of a foreign ambassador, a special envoy who had travelled thousands of miles from the court of King Sarnac of Lencia. Their war against the Drakkarim, who were under the command of Magnaarn, the High Warlord of Darke, had stagnated ever since the onset of winter and recently the whole campaign had taken a turn for the worse. The Lencians learned that Magnaarn had undertaken a quest for the Doomstone of Darke, an artefact of legendary evil. It was said that this gem was the most powerful of all the Doomstones created by Agarash the Damned during the Age of Eternal Night. Before the demise of the Darklords, this Doomstone had rested in the head of the Nyras Sceptre, a magical weapon wielded by Darklord Dakushna, Lord of Kagorst. In the chaos that followed the wake of Dakushna's destruction, the Nyras Sceptre was lost, though many secretly believed it to have been stolen by one of Dakushna's Nadziranim sorcerers. Some months later during the war in Nyras the sceptre reappeared, but the Doomstone was missing from its setting atop the sceptre's platinum haft.</p>
- <p><quote>We fear that Magnaarn is close to finding the Doomstone of Darke,</quote> said the Lencian envoy. <quote>Already he possesses the sceptre's haft. My liege, King Sarnac, beseeches you, Grand Master Lone Wolf, to come to our aid. Help us find the Doomstone and thwart Magnaarn's plan, for if he successfully reunites the Doomstone and the Nyras sceptre he will command a power capable of our undoing.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>With respect, my lord, surely this one weapon, however evil it may be, is no match when pitted against all the armoured might of Lencia?</quote> you replied diplomatically, as yet unconvinced by the envoy's plea.</p>
- <p><quote>Perhaps so, Grand Master,</quote> he replied, <quote>Were the nature of the threat merely the weapon alone. Sadly this is not the only issue here. Until now, the Nadziranim sorcerers who control the strongholds of Kagorst and Akagazad have refused to aid Magnaarn in his war against us. Many times he has begged them for help, for within those fortress walls are thousands of Giaks and other breeds who sought sanctuary there after the defeat of the Darklords. They still possess their weapons and they would make a formidable enemy if ever they were mustered against us. Magnaarn's possession of the Doomstone of Darke will most certainly influence the Nadziranim. Its power is such that Magnaarn could simply force them to obey his every command. Their refusal would result in their immediate destruction.</quote></p>
- <p>Politely you dismissed the envoy whilst you considered your response to his plea. In the solitude of your chamber you pondered the problem, weighing plight of Lencia against your duties and responsibilities there at the Kai monastery. At length, after careful deliberation, you reached your decision.</p>
- <p><quote>Well my Lord?</quote> enquired the envoy, nervously, upon re-entering your chamber. <quote>Will you help us thwart Magnaarn?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Once, not so very long ago, your King and his army aided me during my quest for the Magnakai,</quote> you replied. <quote>Perhaps now the time has come for me to repay my debt of gratitude. Yes, I shall help you. I shall return with you to Lencia and champion your cause. I vow that I shall do all in my power to thwart Magnaarn's quest.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For more than five years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1&endash;14), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 15. These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses obtained upon completion of Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1&endash;5) or Magnakai (Books 6&endash;12) adventures.<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (<a href="&link.13tplor;">Book 13</a> onwards):<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Dagger of Vashna</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Helshezag</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6-12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13-20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature's sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the Gods Kai and Ishir go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<a id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title>Magi-magic</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros&emdash;the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and artifacts.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the first of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.16tlov;">Book 16</a>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline(s), your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <a href="&link.16tlov;"><cite>The Legacy of Vashna.</cite></a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off on your long journey to Lencia, you take with you a <a idref="map">map of the lands and territories of the Western Tentarias</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures. (Books 1&endash;14), you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you can carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take five items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six Arrows: record them on your weapons list.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>4 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Item)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Spear (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the five items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howcarry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Carry Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Sword&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Bow&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Quiver&emdash;slung over your shoulder.</li>
- <li>Axe&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Rope&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Potion of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the Backpack.</li>
- <li>Spear&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- <li>Dagger&emdash;carried in the hand.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howmuch">
- <meta>
- <title>How Much Can You Carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus Special Items may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a quiver and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns. The currency of Nyras is the Kika. The exchange rate is 10 Kika for 1 Gold Crown.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35−30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="imprvdsc-1-foot" idref="imprvdsc-1">
- <p>The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Guardian</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian's bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell>&emdash;This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell>&emdash;This causes the tip of any arrow, or arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this Discipline are able to wield two-handed weapons (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature's body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Discipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Halt Missile</spell>&emdash;This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. arrows, axes, crossbow bolts etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2&endash;3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Strength</spell>&emdash;By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.<a id="imprvdsc-1" idref="imprvdsc-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Grand Master Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master's Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mission to thwart Magnaarn's quest for the Doomstone of Darke will be fraught with deadly dangers. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for the warriors of Nyras are still a formidable enemy despite their recent defeats on the battlefields of the Western Tentarias.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will find during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all. If you discover items, be selective in what you choose to keep.</p>
- <p>Pick your four Grand Master Disciplines with care, for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>The lives of thousands of Lencian crusaders besieging the city of Darke and, ultimately, the final outcome of their war against the hated Drakkarim depends on the success of your mission. May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you venture into the helotry of Nyras.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having pledged your help, you commence preparations for your long journey to Lencia. You have many things you wish to attend to before you depart and so you invite Lord Floras, the Lencian envoy, to enjoy the hospitality of the monastery for a few days in order that you can settle your most pressing obligations. To your surprise he declines your invitation and insists that you leave at once, for he is anxious to return immediately to his distant homeland. Respectfully he reminds you that time does not favour your quest. By ship and by horse his journey to the monastery took more than a month to complete, and with Magnaarn already so near to finding the Doomstone of Darke, he fears that further delays could prove disastrous.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Mindful of the great distance which needs to be traversed you hurriedly dispatch a journeyman to Toran. He carries your request for help which is addressed to Lord Rimoah, your most trusted friend and advisor, who is presently attending to Guildmaster Banedon in his convalescence. Early next morning Lord Rimoah arrives at the monastery in person, aboard the vessel that is to be the answer to your dilemma: <cite>Skyrider</cite>&emdash;Banedon's flying ship.</p>
- <p>Warmly you greet your old friend, then you introduce him formally to Lord Floras. The two talk at length about the war in the west, and Rimoah concludes the discussion by voicing his approval of your decision to go to King Sarnac's aid. Then he offers some words of warning.</p>
- <p><quote>Be in no doubt, Grand Master,</quote> he says, <quote>This mission you have chosen to fulfil will be as perilous as any you have undertaken in the past. Magnaarn is a cunning adversary and this stone he seeks is possessed of a deadly evil. Do not underestimate your enemy. If he should succeed in his quest then I fear the lands of the Western Tentarias will never be at peace.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you search the smouldering ruins, you discover little has survived the fire which, at its height, must have transformed this town into a blazing inferno. The charred bones and skulls of those who died in the battle are strewn everywhere, and no attempt has been made to bury them. You are examining the remains of a Drakkar sword when suddenly you hear Schera calling you. His voice is full of urgency. You discard the sword and hurry back to the main street to find out what is wrong.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="121"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="121"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect184"><link-text>Turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You deal the ice a mighty blow and it splits wide open. For a moment you fear you are already too late to save your guide, then suddenly his head bobs out of the icy water and you grab hold of his collar before he disappears once again.</p>
- <p>You haul him out of the lake and lay him on the frozen surface. His skin is a deep shade of violet and his entire body is shaking uncontrollably. You know that he is in serious condition but at least he is still alive. Using your healing skills, you transmit some of your body warmth through your hands to his chest and face and, within a few minutes, he comes out of shock and his body returns to its normal temperature. Your prompt action has saved his life, but it has also drained you of 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">Adjust your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score accordingly and then <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the trench-troopers falls lifelessly to the muddy floor of the dugout, Prarg appears by your side, sheathing his bloodstained sword.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, sire. We still have the advantage. We best use it before the Drakkarim discover what has happened here.</quote></p>
- <p>Keen to maintain the element of surprise, you quickly leave the trench and rush across the remaining strip of open ground which separates you from the town's outlying dwellings. Prarg points ahead, to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels, and immediately you follow as he rushes towards it shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect5-1-foot" idref="sect5-1">
- <p>This section represents the correct answer to the dragon door lock.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a dull <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia> and the great iron door swings slowly to reveal a dark chamber constructed entirely of polished black rock.<a id="sect5-1" idref="sect5-1-foot" class="footnote"/> Revealed in the torchlight is a throne of rough-hewn marble, upon which there rests the skeletal remains of a warrior clad in mouldering furs. Bare bone gleams dully through a clinging mass of muscle and sinew, now shrunken to an iron-hard texture, and upon its skull there rests a helm of solid gold. Set into the face of this helm is an emerald as large as your fist</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Upon a throne of rough-hewn marble rests the remains of a warrior clad in mouldering furs.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Prarg approaches the throne, tempted by the magnificent emerald, but he halts the moment you warn him that the helm is protected by a magical trap. You sense that a powerful spell of warding encircles the throne; to touch the crown would activate the spell, thereby unleashing a blast of destructive energy. The thought of being blown to atoms serves to dampen Prarg's curiosity and sheepishly he returns to your side. You give the booby-trapped throne a wide berth and leave the chamber by a smooth-walled tunnel in the far wall. But you have taken no more than a dozen steps when a chill of premonition runs like a trickle of icy cold water down your spine. You halt and reach for your weapon.</p>
- <p>Then a loud voice booms out, destroying the silence.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Lone Wolf. Welcome to your tomb!</quote></p>
- <p>Instinctively you know that it is the voice of Warlord Magnaarn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rising into view at the top of the stairs comes another Tunnel Stalker, the mate of the one you encountered earlier. Mindful of that combat, you decide to seize the initiative and attack this beast before it reaches the top of the stairs.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Stalker</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Because of the speed of your attack, and the advantage of fighting from higher ground, increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score by 3 points for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon and steady yourself as the two Ciquali clamber over the gunwale. For a moment they glare at you with hideous, bulging eyes, their throat sacs swelling and collapsing rapidly as they approach the moment to strike. Then, with a shrill screech, they spring simultaneously towards your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ciquali</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">28</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scout places two fingers to his lips and gives a long, warbling whistle. The sound makes the mercenaries spin around and stare in your direction, and you hear one of them whistling twice in reply. Your scout then asks that you be allowed to enter their camp. There is a long pause, then a heavily-accented voice replies, <quote>Show yourselves.</quote></p>
- <p>Relief that you are human, and not Drakkarim, is displayed clearly on the faces of these League-landers when the four of you stand up and walk slowly towards their camp. They offer their apologies for firing on you and one suggests that he escorts you to meet their leader Baron Maquin. Politely you accept his offer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus a ball of psychic energy at the advancing creature and unleash it with unexpected results. The beast possesses phenomenal natural psychic abilities which absorb the shock of your attack, enabling it to shrug off a mental assault which would devastate many creatures twice its size.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search through the many cases and boxes which lie scattered around this cluttered cabin, and you discover the following which may be of use to you during your mission:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Signet Ring</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>3 Arrows</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>2 Potions of Laumspur (each restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>Hourglass</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">To continue, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the portal you discover a narrow flight of stone steps. Quickly you climb these stairs, spurred on by the wintery chill which grows steadily colder as you ascend. You count fifty steps before you eventually arrive at a chamber which is heaped with rubble. Its only door is blocked by debris and huge slabs of marble, making an immediate exit impossible. But it is not the door which commands your attention; it is a narrow circular shaft which is set into the middle of the ceiling. It is the source of the cold, wintery draft.</p>
- <p>Expectantly, you step closer and investigate this shaft. For the most part it is dark, but you can see glimmers of grey daylight high above, and you can hear the whistling of the wind. But you can also hear another sound, one that is quite unexpected. It is a buzzing, insectile noise. You focus upon the darkness and suddenly you see that the noise comes from nests of winged insects which are fixed all along the inside of the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the two dead Tukodaks, sheathe your weapon and turn around to find Prarg standing by your side. He thanks you for saving him from the Tukodak's spear and then he helps you to hide the bodies of the two slain guards beneath some undergrowth in the surrounding ruins. Before you leave them, a quick search of their packs and pockets reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>2 Swords</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>4 Arrows</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to take and keep any of the above items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">To enter the unguarded tower, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the deadly crossbow bolts scream towards you and the Captain, you open your hand and thrust your palm into Prarg's back, pushing him forward. This swift action saves him from the first bolt, but it robs you of time in which to react to the second. It strikes and red-hot pain flares up your arm as the iron-tipped bolt gouges a deep furrow of flesh from the back of your wrist: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The lookouts fumble with their crossbows, desperate to fire again but before they can reload you have disappeared along the beach. Shortly you reach a small secluded cover where Prarg discovers a rusty anchor. It is a landmark, left on purpose by agents of King Sarnac to point the way to the cave where they have left your boat and provisions. You find the cave and together you haul the boat down the beach and raise its coal-black sail before pushing it out into the icy waters of the Tentarias.</p>
- <p>Once aboard you trim the sail whilst Prarg takes charge of the rudder. There is a good wind and within minutes your tiny craft is bobbing towards the far western channel of the Hellswamp, twenty miles distant. You ask Prarg if this dark estuary has a name, and he replies, <quote>Yes. The Drakkarim call it <quote>Dakushna's Channel</quote> after the Darklord who once commanded the city-fortress of Kagorst. They say it is a fitting dedication, for the waterway is as deadly and as treacherous as the creature after whom it is named.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your trek through the forest, Prarg tells you a little about the history of this land. You learn that the whole of Nyras was once known as Northern Lencia until it was lost to the invading Drakkarim during the Darkdawn War. Many crusades and campaigns have been launched over the centuries to try and recapture this territory, but none, until now, have been successful. The Drakkarim built a fortress on the ruins of the Lencian capital, which was called Gamir, which they renamed Nagamir after their victory. But later, when the Drakkarim allied themselves to the Darklords of Helgedad, the capital was renamed Darke in their honour.</p>
- <p>As dusk approaches, you happen by chance upon a forest trail and immediately your tracking skills tell you that it has only recently been constructed. Hoof prints frozen beneath the snow and several sets of footprints tell you that this trail has been used by more than a dozen riders and armoured foot soldiers within the last week.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prarg rushes towards the dying Drakkar and, before he can sound his horn, he deals him a killing blow.</p>
- <p><quote>Quick, Sire,</quote> he says, sheathing his sword. <quote>Let us away from here lest this knight is not alone.</quote></p>
- <p>You leap over the corpse and run down the corridor following closely on the heels of your companion. Soon you come to a junction where you are forced to choose a direction, left or right. You call upon your Kai skills and immediately you sense a strong presence of evil lurking at the end of the right-hand passage. You focus on the source of this evil and determine it is the Doomstone. You tell Prarg, and together you advance along the passage until you reach a closed door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait as two Drakkarim on horseback come riding past the cabin, then, as soon as the coast is clear, you leap from the ditch and sprint through a gap in the log wall. The moment you reach the cabin you press yourself flat against its rough timbers and peer cautiously through its grimy window.</p>
- <p>The cabin is not empty. Inside, you see a Drakkarim sergeant stretching for a bottle of wine that stands on a high shelf. He takes it down, pulls out the cork and helps himself to a long gulp of the glistening, ruby-red liquid. Behind him you can see the edge of the table; his body is obscuring the map.</p>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you wish to enter the cabin and attack the soldier while he is distracted, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you choose to remain where you are and continue your observations, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fix your eyes on the speeding arrow and incant the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Halt Missile</spell>. For a few seconds the shaft freezes in mid-air, then it resumes flight and passes harmlessly across the rear of the boat. You hear gasps of astonishment from the Drakkarim, and more than one utters the word <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ziran</quote></foreign>&emdash;the Giak for <quote>Wizard</quote>. As you disappear rapidly downstream, you see the renegades scrambling up the muddy bank in a desperate attempt to get away, having convinced themselves that you are a powerful sorcerer!</p>
- <p>Your voyage continues without further interruption until, later in the afternoon, you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With brave determination you begin the laborious task of clearing away the rock and rubble which fills this stairway. You are fearful that it may take you several days to reach the next level and so it comes as a welcome surprise when, after just a few minutes' work, you see a gap appearing at the top of the mound. A gust of cold, wintery air wafts through this breach, rekindling your hopes of reaching the surface. Revived by the cold clean air, you attack the rubble with renewed vigour. But then your hopes are shaken when you hear a sinister sound; behind you, a Tunnel Stalker is climbing the stairs to the landing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have reached the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced Kai skills you conjure up a cloud of fog which completely obscures you from the sight of the approaching lookouts.</p>
- <p><quote>Hurry, Captain!</quote> you whisper, as you pull Prarg to his feet, <quote>we must get away before the wind destroys our screen.</quote></p>
- <p>The lookouts stumble into the fog and you hear them cursing as you make good your escape along the beach. You soon outdistance them and, a few minutes later, you happen upon a small secluded cove where Captain Prarg, to his delight, discovers a rusty anchor. At first you cannot fathom why this should please him so, then he tells you that it is a landmark, left on purpose by agents of King Sarnac to point the way to the cave where they have left your boat and provisions. You find the cave and together you haul the boat down the beach and raise its coal-black sail before pushing it out into the icy waters of the Tentarias.</p>
- <p>Once aboard, you trim the sail whilst Prarg takes charge of the rudder. There is a good wind and within minutes your tiny craft is bobbing towards the far western channel of the Hellswamp, twenty miles distant. You ask Prarg if this dark estuary has a name, and he replies, <quote>Yes. The Drakkarim call it <quote>Dakushna's Channel</quote> after the Darklord who once commanded the city-fortress of Kagorst. They say it is a fitting dedication, for the waterway is as deadly and as treacherous as the being after whom it is named.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Towards you stalks a great albino creature as big as a bear. Two huge tusks protrude from its dripping jaws, and it yawns hungrily as slowly it draws closer and closer to you and your companion, attracted by the prospect of easy prey. The beast coughs and advances yet another step, its stubby tail twitching angrily. Prarg panics and he shouts <quote>Run</quote> as it fixes him with its fearsome pink eyes. Then the creature senses his fear and at once it comes bounding towards you with its great jaws agape in readiness to bite.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A great bear-like creature stalks towards you, two huge tusks protruding from its dripping jaws.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you do not have a Bow, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath you watch as the cavalry approaches. You recognize them to be Zagganozod, a unit of armoured Drakkarim cavalry of a type you once encountered many years ago, during a quest that took you to the land of Eru.</p>
- <p>The enemy horsemen reach the road where they draw their mounts to a halt. They exchange a few words, then they turn their horses towards Darke and gallop away towards the battle that is raging around its walls. As soon as they are out of earshot, Schera and Maquin's men let out a collective sigh of relief.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234"><link-text>Turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A barricade has been thrown across the road which leads north out of Shugkona. The Drakkarim posted here have been alerted by the sounds of chaos coming from the square, and hurriedly they are trundling an armoured wagon across a gap at the centre of the barricade to seal off the exit completely. You slap your horse's rump and gallop towards this shrinking gap, but three spear-wielding guards see you approaching, and they rush forward to challenge you with their weapons held ready to strike.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you possess Kai-surge and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you possess neither of these skills, or have yet to reach the required level of Kai Grand Mastership, <link-text>turn instead to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Schera wakes you shortly before dawn and wearily you rise from your makeshift bed. Mindful of the journey ahead, you make a brief search of the armoury and discover a few weapons, and other items which could prove useful:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>6 Arrows</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>The captain sends word to his men to find boats for the voyage downstream. The order is duly carried out and, within the hour, twenty small craft have been brought to the icy river on the west side of the stone bridge. Schera appoints ten men to each craft, then you and he step aboard the first boat, cast off, and begin a voyage that will take you towards the coastal city of Darke.</p>
- <p>The current is strong and the river is free of obstructions, enabling your flotilla to make swift progress downstream. Much of the riverbank is lightly wooded and Schera commands everyone to remain vigilant in case there are Drakkarim among the trees, lying in ambush. You pass through the woods without incident, and shortly before noon, you see the ruined town of Odnenga in the distance. Every building has been razed to the ground and a pall of wood smoke hangs above the town, fed by fires still smouldering from a battle that took place here several days ago. The river here is blocked by debris and you are forced to put ashore. Schera's men set to work clearing a passage, while you and the Captain scout the ruins in search of information.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A soot-blackened road, running east to west, divides this shattered town into two halves. Schera suggests that you split up and search one half each and you nod in agreement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you wish to search the north side of this ruined town, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you choose to search the south side, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you land your killing blow, the Mawtaw shrieks an unearthly cry and falls to the ground, shivering and twitching fitfully. Then, with unnerving abruptness, it stiffens and lies still. Prarg immediately awakens from his hypnotic trance and, to your surprise, you discover that he has no memory at all of what has happened in the last hour.</p>
- <p>Quickly you hurry away from the carcass of the slain Mawtaw and press on deeper into the forest. Your instinct and Pathsmanship skills lead you in a northerly direction and you cover more than five miles before the trees begin to thin out. Then you emerge from the forest to be greeted by a spectacular sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192"><link-text>Turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are ushered into a lavish chamber that is hung with Lencian flags and decorated with exotic fineries from the far-flung corners of Magnamund. All around guardsmen stand rigidly to attention, their eyes watchful and unblinking behind their silver visors as you approach the high-backed throne which dominates the centre of the room. There before you sits King Sarnac, his silver-grey hair framing a benign face that is still lean and firm despite advancing years.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> he says, as he rises from his throne and offers his hand in friendship. <quote>I prayed that you would come to Lencia, to help in the defeat of that cur, Magnaarn, but I did not imagine that you would arrive so soon. You are most welcome.</quote></p>
- <p>Gladly you acknowledge the King's greeting and, after he has commended and dismissed Lord Floras, you adjourn with him to an antechamber where he tells you about the mission ahead.</p>
- <p><quote>Latest reports from my spies and scouts in the north say that Magnaarn is presently at his army headquarters in Shugkona. Drakkarim have been seen combing a region of the Tozaz forest fifty miles to the north of his headquarters. We think that this is where he believes he'll find the Doomstone of Darke. There are many ancient temples in this area&ellips; perhaps one is harbouring that evil gem.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The King pauses for a few moments to take some refreshment. From a jewel-encrusted pitcher, he pours two glasses of wine and proffers one to you before continuing. Gratefully you accept and politely you sip the rare vintage whilst listening to the King's plan of action.</p>
- <p><quote>Grand Master,</quote> he says, fixing you with his powerful gaze, <quote>if you are to thwart Magnaarn you must travel to Shugkona and seek him out. He must be killed, or failing this, the infernal Doomstone must be destroyed before he can use it against us. Secrecy is paramount if your mission is to succeed, therefore no attempt to approach Shugkona directly can be made. The lines of battle are drawn up to within fifty miles of that stronghold and the region is alive with Drakkarim. Yet there is still one means of approach that the enemy will not be guarding. I have made provision for a boat to take you to a place we call <quote>Bear Rock</quote>. It lies on the River Gourneni and is only thirty miles from Magnaarn's headquarters. However, there is one complication&ellips; to reach the river you must first enter the Hellswamp.</quote></p>
- <p>The thought of venturing into that terrible mire fills you with a cold dread, for the Hellswamp is notoriously perilous. King Sarnac recognizes your apprehension and quickly he tries to assuage your fears.</p>
- <p><quote>I understand your anxiety, Grand Master, but rest assured that you will not be entering alone. One of my finest officers will be your guide throughout this mission. He has scouted this route before and he knows how to avoid its many dangers. Once you reach Bear Rock he will guide you through the forest to Shugkona. There you must find out where Magnaarn is and do whatever is necessary to foil his quest. Once your mission has been accomplished, my officer will bring you through our battle lines and see you safely back here to Vadera.</quote></p>
- <p>The king reaches for a cord which hangs from a hole in the domed ceiling. He tugs it and a bell tinkles in a distant part of the citadel.</p>
- <p><quote>Now, Grand Master,</quote> he says, turning to face the door of the antechamber, <quote>the time has come for me to introduce your guide.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you took part in the Battle of Cetza in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you have not taken part in this battle, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry along this tunnel, passing in your stride many fissures which have opened up the stone floor and shattered the walls. It ends at a ruined staircase which leads to a landing where you are confronted by the corpse of a Drakkarim guard. It is slumped beside a mound of rubble which is blocking the stairs to the level above. A quick examination of the dead body reveals that both arms are broken. Injured and trapped here by the rockfall, it appears that this guard eventually died of thirst.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you wish to search the body further, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to attempt to clear away the rubble that is blocking the stairs, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your instincts, you take the Silver Rod from your pocket and insert it into the lock. It is a perfect fit. Silently the lock disengages and the door swings open to reveal two Tukodak guards, both standing with their backs to you. One feels a draft and glances over his shoulder, but before he can draw a weapon or warn his comrade, you leap forward and silence them with two swift and deadly open-handed blows to the napes of their necks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down upon the unsuspecting lancer and send him tumbling from the saddle. Then you seize control of his startled horse and take off across the square. With your left hand you unholster the lance and bring it to bear as you gallop headlong towards the mass of Drakkarim soldiers who stand between you and the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you do not cast the spell quickly enough to block the Drakkar's arrow and it hits you squarely in the upper chest, knocking you flat on your back: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Bravely you take hold of the arrow and wrench it from your chest. Then, using your innate healing skills, you manage to staunch the bleeding. For nearly an hour you lie in the bottom of the boat staring at the grey sky, allowing the river to carry you downstream, and when eventually you pull yourself upright, you find that the Drakkarim renegades are no longer in sight.</p>
- <p>Your voyage continues without further incident until, later in the afternoon, you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After several unsuccessful attempts to open this lock, you abandon the door and leave the chamber. You are fearful of what may happen if you stay here any longer and so you retrace your steps to the place where you first emerged from the collapsed passage. You pause here for a few minutes to catch your breath, then you continue along the tunnel until, once more, you find yourself standing at the edge of the chasm. You scan this vast and dismal fissure, hoping to find a way to escape from this grim subterranean prison.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Uncertainty haunts your thoughts as you race across the desolate no man's land that lies between the inner and outer defences of Shugkona. Soon you catch sight of these outer defences. They comprise a line of man-sized wooden casks filled with earth, behind which there stands a squad of Drakkarim archers. Their bows are loaded and aimed, ready to fire.</p>
- <p>Quickly you steer your horse away from the road and set off across rough, snowy ground towards a distant line of trenches. Fortunately, the defences at the northern perimeter are much weaker than elsewhere. The trenches are empty, the guards having left earlier to watch Prarg's execution in the main square. However, the rough terrain soon takes its toll upon your already tired horse. It is near to exhaustion, and as you approach the trenches, you fear he is not strong enough to make the jump.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Animal Mastery, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you have reached the Kai rank of Grand Guardian or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Quickly, Prarg!</quote> you shout, as the advancing pack spreads out, attempting to surround you. <quote>Stand back-to-back. Whatever you do, don't let them separate us or we're done for!</quote></p>
- <p>The Captain obeys your command and, as the first of the snarling war-dogs comes leaping through the air, you steel yourselves to receive its manic attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Wild Akataz Pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These war dogs are especially susceptible to psychic attack. Double all bonuses you would normally receive should you decide to use a psychic attack during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect33-1-foot" idref="sect33-1">
- <p>You may take <em>one</em> handful of the Floroa Fungi.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The slime-smeared steps are narrow and steep and seem to go on forever. You ascend, settling into a steady climbing rhythm, and after a long while you come to a rot-infested door on which your fumbling fingers discover a corroded metal latch. It opens into a dim and lofty chamber, vaulted by massive pillars of marble which are slick with moisture. The ground is carpeted with mottled green fungi, some specimens standing even taller than yourself, and the humid air is thick with spores.</p>
- <p>Slowly you make your way across the chamber to an archway which is flanked by stone pillars, carved to resemble two huge open books. Around the base of these book-like pillars you notice several clumps of fleshy fungi which you recognize at once. They are called Floroa and are very nutritious. Eagerly you pick and swallow a handful of these Floroa&emdash;restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points&emdash;before leaving this chamber. (If you wish to take some of this fungi with you, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Backpack Item. Consuming this at a later time will restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<a id="sect33-1" idref="sect33-1-foot" class="footnote" />)</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">To continue, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sight of Prarg being held hostage by these ruthless Drakkarim fills you with frustrated anger, but you dare not show it. The slightest provocation could result in the Captain's death. Instead, you call upon Warlord Magnaarn to show himself; you do not have to wait long for his response.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slay the Death Knights and bundle their bodies down the stairs to delay the other Drakkarim. Then, with fear running cold in your veins, you hurry across to a window on the far side of the tower. Outside, directly below, you see a Drakkar lancer sitting astride a warhorse. His lance is sheathed in a tube-like scabbard fixed to the rear of his saddle and in his hand he holds aloft a heavy-bladed cavalry sabre. He is cheering those who are entering the tower and he is completely unaware that you are barely a few yards away.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you climb on to the window ledge, draw your weapon, then leap on to the unwary lancer below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If your total score is now 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow Prarg to the top of the steps, and as you race along the body-strewn battlements, you see the fighting which is raging both inside and outside the city. The battlements end at a tower where a flight of spiral steps ascend to a circular landing. Here you wait in the shadows until a troop of Drakkarim pass by. While you are waiting for them to disappear, you look out of the tower through an arrow slit and see the waters of the Gulf of Lencia, and the conflict that is raging across the coastal plain.</p>
- <p><quote>The King's Crusaders breached the city gate three days ago,</quote> whispers Prarg. <quote>They were close to taking the city when Magnaarn and his armies arrived. His new-found power shattered the Crusaders, but even though they were broken by it, not all were ejected from the city. Those you saw fighting at the keep are trying to hold on until our allies arrive from Kasland. The fleet is expected at any time. Magnaarn must be slain. He and the sceptre have become one entity&emdash;he is now a puppet of a far greater evil.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A shudder runs down your spine as, for the first time since you entered Darke, you feel the presence of the Doomstone. Fear returns to haunt you, the fear that the evil gem will sap your strength, as it did when first you encountered it at the Temple of Antah. If this is still so then Magnaarn may prove impossible to defeat.</p>
- <p>Prarg senses your anxiety and he offers some words of advice and hope: <quote>The taking of Darke has weakened the Warlord&emdash;he's paid a terrible price. He has been forced to retire from the battle in order to recover his strength and he is presently at his weakest. Now, Sire, is the time to strike.</quote></p>
- <p>Beyond the landing lies a corridor which leads to a junction where another passageway crosses from left to right. You look to the right and see that the way is blocked by a heavy steel door. Prarg utters a curse under his breath, then he explains his anger.</p>
- <p><quote>That way leads directly to the Palace Tower. Magnaarn is hiding there, in its uppermost chamber.</quote></p>
- <p>Anxiously he glances along the opposite passage and furrows his brow. <quote>Perhaps we can get there by another route,</quote> he muses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you wish to investigate the closed door, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you choose to look for another way of reaching the Palace Tower, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you sense that Prarg is walking directly towards a patch of thin ice. You shout a warning but it is already too late. A loud <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia> echoes across the lake as the surface shatters and, in a terrible moment, your companion disappears feet-first into a seething pool of icy grey water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you possess a Rope, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You let fly your Arrow and send it deep into the creature's throat. For a few moments the Ciquali looks at you as if unaffected by the Arrow, then its eyes roll backwards in their sockets and stiffly it falls backwards over the gunwale to sink without trace beneath the slimy water.</p>
- <p>As one, the remaining Ciquali flee from the boat and disappear as quickly as they had come, slipping back to the cold, dark safety of their hiding places beneath the surface. Silence returns, and for a long moment you stand alert, suspecting trickery, then slowly you relax; they have gone.</p>
- <p>Aided by your healing skills, Prarg makes a speedy recovery from the battering he sustained in combat with the Ciquali chieftain. The boat, too, has survived the attack and you are able to continue without further delay. As soon as you pass the obstruction, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along the channel beyond.</p>
- <p>You are hungry after your encounter. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fight for control of Konozod is swift and bloody. Within the hour the town is under Lencian control, its Drakkarim garrison having been put mercilessly to the sword. However, not all of the enemy perish in the battle. To Captain Schera's dismay, several manage to escape across the river and flee to the west on horseback. He is anxious that they may return with reinforcements to retake the town.</p>
- <p>A food store is discovered and, whilst the starving Lencians satiate their hunger, you talk with Captain Schera about the events of the last few weeks which have led to this meeting. Your learn from him that after you were interred in the Temple of Antah, Warlord Magnaarn waged a major offensive against the Lencian army. Having reunited the Doomstone with the Nyras Sceptre, he has, as King Sarnac feared, forced the Nadziranim sorcerers of Kagorst and Akagazad to help him. Their combined skills have wrought great destruction. They attacked and drove through the Lencian lines like demons in an offensive which was swift and deadly. A week ago, Captain Schera and his regiment were cut off and captured in the fighting around Hokidat, after which they were marched here and imprisoned. He considers himself lucky to be alive, for the Drakkarim rarely take prisoners. Then you ask what news he has heard about the war since he came here.</p>
- <p><quote>There's much confusion,</quote> he says, wearily. <quote>I've heard talk that most of the mercenaries in Sarnac's pay have deserted us. Some have even joined the enemy. The Drakkarim taunted us, saying that our army had been smashed. They said the remnants had been pushed into the Tentarias, but I dismissed this as lies. One thing is sure, though: Magnaarn intends to raise the siege of Darke. It has become his battle call&emdash;<quote>On to Darke!</quote> This cry was on the lips of his troops during the battle at Hokidat. I saw him during this battle. He was leading his army personally, and he was wielding his accursed sceptre, dealing death to all who tried to stand in his way. He possesses a great and terrible power, and I fear that we may now be unable to put an end to his evil ambitions.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to ask Schera if he knows anything about Captain Prarg, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect40-1-foot" idref="sect40-1">
- <p>This section represents the correct answer to the octagonal door lock.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the final tap you hear a faint <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia>, then the door creaks slowly open to reveal a dark and desolate chamber, its brick walls dripping with evil-smelling grey slime.<a id="sect40-1" idref="sect40-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly after midnight you are awoken by the sound of wolves howling. Within a few moments you are on your feet, your weapon in hand as you race up the bank towards the place where you stationed your timberwolf guards. As you crest the bank you see them pacing back and forth, their eyes fixed on the forest's edge, their thick white fur standing on end with anxiety and fear. You scour the tree-line and at once you see the cause of their concern: Akataz. A dozen of the leathery black war-dogs are slinking in the shadows, waiting for the chance to attack. These ferocious wild dogs are often used by the Drakkarim and you have encountered them before on several occasions. Mindful of past experiences, you recall a weakness of the breed: they are particularly susceptible to psychic attacks.</p>
- <p>Armed with this knowledge, you focus your Magnakai skill of Psi-surge upon the pack and launch a sharp blast of psychic energy in their direction. The effect is immediate: the Akataz are traumatized by this sudden assault. Shrieking with fright; the dogs flee from the bank and seek refuge in the dark safety of the Tozaz Forest. Confident that they will not be back, affectionately you pat your two loyal guards then return to the boat to resume your night's rest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Nadziranim sorcerer has taken on the visage of a great snuffling beast which creeps towards you on six long-clawed feet. A vile, bulbous head is perched uneasily on its immense shoulders and its baleful, milky-coloured eyes roll like balls of mist within its scabrous head. The reeking fur of its body seems to bristle as slowly, with ponderous steps, it draws closer and closer.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Nadziranim sorcerer, taking on the visage of a great sniffling beast, creeps towards you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="600"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="600"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few moments after the wall closes there is a sound like distant thunder. Then a shudder runs through the floor and clumps of dirt begin to fall from cracks in the ceiling. Your strength is returning, but before you can attempt to escape, there is an almighty explosion and a deluge of rock and damp earth cascades into the passageway. The ceiling and floor are being pulled in opposing directions, and with a grating cry of tortured stone, the heavy portcullis shatters in two. Quickly you crawl beneath a broken section which lies at an angle to the wall, and take cover as countless tons of rock and earth rain down from above.</p>
- <p>When at last the destruction ceases you find yourself trapped in the narrow triangular space between the heavy portcullis and the wall. Your quick thinking has saved you from physical injury, but, as far as you can tell, you are now buried in a collapsed level of the temple, hundreds of feet below the surface. Confident in the knowledge that, at worse, your stamina and Kai skills alone can keep you alive for several days, you begin the slow and laborious task of digging your way out of this subterranean tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Gorodons come pounding through the shallows, you draw upon your Magnakai skill of Animal Control in a desperate attempt to repel their attack. But your Discipline is not sufficiently strong enough and it fails to slow their advance.</p>
- <p>Desperately you struggle to unsheathe your weapon as, with eyes blazing and horns lowered in eager readiness to strike, the Gorodons come rushing in for the kill.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Gorodons</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you win and the combat takes six rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If the combat is still in progress at the start of the seventh round, do not continue. Instead, <link-text>turn immediately to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your intuition, you set off with Prarg along the forest trail heading west, and soon your tracking skills warn you that you are nearing an enemy encampment. You signal your discovery to Prarg, and he follows as stealthily you enter the undergrowth and slip past a line of Drakkarim sentries. From the cover of the dense forest bracken you observe their camp. You count more than two dozen soldiers, plus horses, wagons and shelters. Prarg points to the emblem which adorns all of their uniforms and equipment: a black eagle clutching two fiery swords.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>These are the Tukodak&emdash;Warlord Magnaarn's personal guards,</quote> he says in a hushed whisper. <quote>We would be wise to avoid them.</quote></p>
- <p>You nod in agreement then together you slip away from the camp and head north through the trees. You are drawn in this direction by something your senses have detected. It is a strong aura of energy, an evil energy which you feel sure must be radiating from the Doomstone of Darke. Within a few minutes you stumble upon a clearing where stands the majestic ruins of an ancient temple. At once you know that this is the Temple of Antah, and you sense that the Doomstone is here, lying somewhere deep within the ruins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stoically, you begin the difficult trek westwards through this dense timberland, following the tracks left behind by Magnaarn's troops. At dusk you reach the forest's edge and stare out across an open expanse of bare, snow-covered plain. There is no cover to be had here, but at least the approaching darkness will help keep you hidden from hostile eyes.</p>
- <p>As you emerge from the trees, by chance you notice something half-buried in the undergrowth. A closer look reveals it to be a large Drakkarim backpack. You flip open the buckles to search it and discover it contains the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>2 Arrows</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>Potion of Alether (increases <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 2 points for duration of one combat only)</li>
- <li>Bottle of Wine</li>
- <li>Bowstring</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">To continue your trek, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You share your premonition of danger with Captain Prarg and wisely he heeds your warning. He suggests you draw in the sail to prevent the wind from propelling your boat towards the raft of weeds, yet once the sail is gathered, still you find yourselves drifting ever nearer to the obstruction.</p>
- <p>With weapons drawn, you wait in tense expectation as the boat grazes the edge of the weed-raft. For a few seconds there is an unnatural silence, then suddenly a gurgling screech rends the frosty air. Like sorcery-conjured demons, a dozen ghoulish creatures rise up from the murky depths of the swamp amid a seething froth of bubbles. Swiftly they climb from beneath the weed-raft and slink from other hiding places among the dank thickets of the adjoining bank. Within seconds they have you surrounded.</p>
- <p><quote>Ciquali!</quote> cries Prarg, naming these ghoulish foes. He steps forward, brandishing his sword, and lashes out at the boldest of the dome-headed creatures as it tries to slip aboard. His razor-sharp blade severs its forearm at the wrist, sending a scaly webbed hand spinning into the swamp, trailing green ichor. The beast screams as it falls over the side, yet no sooner has it vanished beneath the surface when two more of its kin grab the gunwales and attempt to haul themselves into the boat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you do not, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Pathsmanship skills locate the faint outline of tracks in the dust which covers the rough stone floor. These tracks were made by a creature that is bigger than yourself, a large-footed biped with clawed toes and an awkward shuffling gait. You are tracing the outline of one footprint with your index finger when suddenly your acute senses warn you that something hostile is approaching along the corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to avoid a confrontation, you can turn around and hurry along this tunnel in the opposite direction, by <link-text>turning to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you choose instead to draw your weapon and advance to meet this unknown threat, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down upon the unsuspecting lancer, but the shock of impact does not unseat him and desperately he struggles to fend you off. He gouges your cheek with his studded gauntlets before you succeed in knocking him out of the saddle: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The lancer falls heavily to the ground, striking his head. Before he can recover his senses, you seize control of the horse and take off across the square. With your left hand you unholster the lance and bring it to bear as you gallop headlong towards the backs of the Drakkarim soldiers who stand between you and the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A ragged line of Lencian prisoners are crossing the stone bridge, escorted by a dozen Drakkarim armed with crossbows and spears. The main gates swing open to admit them, and, as the Lencians file through with their heads bowed in defeat, you see that the central square of this town has been turned into a large prisoner-of-war compound. It is enclosed by a crude fence of wire and sharpened stakes, which is patrolled by sentries and Akataz war-dogs. From what little you can see you estimate at least two hundred Lencians are being held captive here.</p>
- <p>The conditions are shocking. The men are being kept out in the open, without shelter or heat of any kind, and judging by the state of those already here, it looks as if the Drakkarim are purposefully starving them to death.</p>
- <p>Your shock soon turns to anger, and you vow to do something to help these prisoners. But before you can think through a plan of action, your Kai senses warn you of approaching footsteps. Two of the Drakkarim escort have slipped away from the line and they are now walking briskly towards the alleyway. One has a large canvas sack slung over his shoulder, and as they draw closer, you are forced to take cover in a shadowy doorway to avoid being seen.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to your score.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you feel the icy-cold waters of the Gourneni lapping about your legs, you press your shoulders to the stern timbers and launch the boat into the shallows. Prarg scrambles over the side, then turns with his arms outstretched to pull you aboard.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, Lone Wolf!</quote> he screams, <quote>they're nearly upon us!</quote></p>
- <p>With Prarg's help you clamber over the gunwale, narrowly avoiding the horns of a Gorodon as you tumble head-over-heels into the bottom of the boat. Unaided, the boat drifts towards the middle of the river and is soon beyond reach of the Gorodons who, despite their hunger, have decided not to pursue.</p>
- <p><quote>That was too close for comfort,</quote> says Prarg, as he struggles to free the oars and set them in place. <quote>We can count ourselves lucky to have escaped with our lives and limbs intact. The first time I navigated these channels I lost three good men in a Gorodon attack. These beasts are the bane of this accursed place&ellips; yet, t'is true to say, there are other creatures here that are far worse. Far worse.</quote></p>
- <p>Using the oars you soon reach the west bank where, once safely ashore, you encamp on a strip of frozen loam that overlooks a bleak expanse of marsh. Night has fallen and so too has the temperature. From the shelter of your upturned boat you cast your experienced eye across the darkening skies and see banks of cloud, heavy with snow, scudding the distant horizon. They are an unwelcome sight, the precursors to a winter storm</p>
- <p>Prarg volunteers to continue the first watch but, mindful that his need for rest is greater than yours, you insist that he gets some sleep. For four hours you sit and scan the bleak horizon, your mind filled with unanswered questions about the mission and the dangers you have yet to face. While you ponder what awaits you in the near future, you remain watchful and alert, your encounter on the east bank still vivid in your mind. Fortunately, the increasing cold dissuades the Hellswamp's inhabitants from leaving their lairs this night and your watch passes without incident.</p>
- <p>Then the time comes for you to awaken Prarg. With a noticeable lack of enthusiasm he takes his turn while you settle yourself down to catch a few hours of much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you descend the slippery hill track and make your approach to the bridge. The thick snow muffles your steps and you are able to reach the cabin without alerting its occupants. You motion to Prarg to take hold of the horse and keep lookout whilst you investigate the stables. Silently you slip alongside the cabin and pass beneath its solitary window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you wish to peek through the window, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you choose to ignore the window and make your way directly to the stables, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar shudders as you land your killing blow. With an open-mouthed look of surprise, he clasps his chest then drops lifelessly to the floor. Quickly you step over his corpse and hurry to the table to study the map. To your disappointment, the map turns out to be merely a construction plan of the encampment. It offers no clues to Magnaarn's present location.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="117"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="117"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to search the cabin more thoroughly, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose to leave the cabin and return to Prarg, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ambush is swift and devastating, yet despite having been caught completely unawares, the Drakkarim cavalry put up a spirited fight. Their leader is a formidable swordsman and more than a dozen Lencians die beneath his swishing blade before he finds himself in face-to-face combat with a Kai Grand Master.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zagganozod Captain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your super-keen senses warn you that Prarg is walking towards a patch of thin ice. At once you shout a warning and he halts in his tracks. Then, carefully, he retraces his steps and follows in your footsteps as you make a wide detour around this perilous section. An hour later you reach the far side of the lake and hurry into the forest beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a Gold Crown from your money pouch, flick it in the air, then catch it on the back of your hand. With your advanced skills it is easy for you to sense immediately that the coin is showing heads, but Prarg is not so gifted.</p>
- <p><quote>Heads or tails?</quote> you ask your companion.</p>
- <p>Thoughtfully he scratches his chin as he considers his answer.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect298">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your realistic disguise and plausible story, the Tukodak guards are not deceived.</p>
- <p><quote>Gazim!</quote> shouts the spear-wielder, and you are forced to knock Prarg aside to save his life as the angry Drakkar thrusts at his chest. You move back a few paces and draw your weapon just in time to defend yourself as the guards rush to attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tukodaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down upon a stack of ale barrels which, in turn, topple and fall, pinning you beneath them. Yet despite your heavy landing, your cat-like reflexes save you from sustaining any serious injuries: lose only 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>At once you try to extricate yourself from beneath the heavy casks, but a sudden sound causes you to stop and stare at the broken trapdoor. In the alleyway above, you hear the sounds of a struggle taking place: the Drakkarim have found your companion, Prarg, and they are attempting to overpower him by force.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225"><link-text>Turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect59-1-foot" idref="sect59-1">
- <p>It is at your discretion whether or not to apply these bonuses cumulatively. It seems that the bonuses are used non-cumulatively (i.e. a Sun Knight would add 2, not 3).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The open doors to the tower appear to offer the only means of access to the temple. Because of this, you decide that you will try and overpower the two Tukodak who are standing guard there. Armed with your formidable Kai skills, and with dusk fast turning to darkness, you are confident you will succeed.</p>
- <p>You tell Prarg, who is unarmed, to wait here at the forest's edge until you signal for him to join you. Then you stalk towards the tower, your approach masked by your camouflage skills. At first the way is easy, but the last twenty yards of ground to the stone ramp have been cleared of temple debris and this area is completely open, devoid of any cover.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1. If you have reached the rank of Sun Knight add 2.<a id="sect59-1" idref="sect59-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dawn breaks as you sail into the estuary of Dakushna's Channel. Prarg keeps the boat in the centre of the wide waterway, where the slimy water is deepest and the ever-present risk of grounding upon submerged debris is less likely to befall you.</p>
- <p>Soon you are enveloped by the chaotic wilderness of the Hellswamp and you feel your spirits drop, as if they are being leeched by some unseen vampire. The monotonous view of slime-laden mudflats extends seemingly forever on every side, broken only occasionally by a dead, vine-strangled tree. You both take some comfort in the fact that there is a wind and it is blowing in a favourable direction. Despite the depressing scenery you make good progress until, late in the afternoon, you are forced to lower your sail when you reach a point where unexpectedly the channel splits in two. Prarg says that this split must have occurred recently, for it was not present the last time he sailed this way. Reluctantly he admits that he is not sure which way to go.</p>
- <p>Upon the edge of the left bank, in the middle distance, you see a circle of mud huts perched close to the channel's edge. You magnify your vision, but you are unable to discern any signs of life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you wish to enter the left channel which passes close to the circle of mud huts, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you wish to take the right channel and thereby avoid passing by the huts, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I'll prepare a diversion. When the guards and their dogs are drawn away from the perimeter fence, you must act quickly. You and your men must storm the gates. Once you are free, make your way to the armoury with all haste. You'll find your weapons there.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>That's all very well,</quote> replies the Captain, sceptically, <quote>but how do you propose we get into the armoury? It's the most secure building in the town.</quote></p>
- <p>'Don't worry about that,' you say, with confidence. <quote>I shall be inside, waiting to let you in.</quote></p>
- <p>For a few moments the Captain considers your plan in silence. Then, with a nod, he finally agrees.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well, so be it. I'll pass the word.</quote></p>
- <p>You watch as he returns to his men, then you leave the fence and retrace your steps to the darkened alleyway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you charge towards the sentries, they huddle together and set the butts of their wavering spears into the ground in readiness to receive your attack. But a sharp burst of Psi-surge unsettles them and they scatter moments before you come galloping upon them. In the next instant you are through the gap in the barricade and racing along the road beyond. You have passed successfully through the inner defensive line, but, as Prarg quickly points out, you have yet to reach the outer defences of Shugkona.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer the horse towards the platform and the troops scatter before you. All, that is, save one. He is a Death Knight sergeant, an élite Drakkarim warrior. He curses his comrades for their cowardice and, as you bear down on him with your lance levelled at his chest, he draws his sword and gets ready to meet your attack head-on. Then the tip of your lance strikes his steel breastplate and you are forced back in your saddle with a jolt that leaves you breathless.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 12 or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hopes of finding a clear route out of here are soon dashed when you arrive at a ruined staircase. It leads to a landing where you are confronted by the corpse of a Drakkarim guard, slumped beside a mound of rubble which is blocking the stairs to the level above. A quick examination of the dead body reveals that both arms are broken. Injured and trapped here by the falling rocks, it appears that this guard eventually died of thirst.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you wish to search the body further, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to attempt to clear away the rubble that is blocking the stairs, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prarg has reservations about your decision; he fears that your curiosity could be leading you both straight into the arms of the enemy. You understand his anxiety but you stand by your decision. Time is running against you and some risks must be taken if you are to discover quickly the location of Magnaarn and the Doomstone. With a nod of his head Prarg accepts the logic of your argument. Then, as if to reaffirm his loyalty, he draws his sword and offers to lead the way.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you follow him through the dense trees, your nerves as taught as bowstrings. As you draw closer, you are able to make out the sounds of wood being chopped, gruff voices and the jingle of horse bridles. Your suspicions are confirmed when you reach the edge of a clearing and see a Drakkarim encampment in the centre of recently cleared ground. Three log cabins, two only partially completed, stand in the middle of a circular ditch which is backed in turn by a chest-high wall of sharpened stakes. You count more than a hundred Drakkarim labouring to complete this forest outpost, while another fifty or so stand guard along its perimeter wall. They look well-equipped; all are clad in thick furs and studded leather armour, and they wield weapons which are unmistakably fresh from the forge.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Suddenly the door swings open and a Drakkarim officer strides out into the snow.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Slowly you edge your way around the clearing until you are on the north side of the encampment. Here the perimeter wall has yet to be completed, affording you an unobstructed view of the cabins. You settle yourself behind a fallen tree and patiently you observe the main hut. Suddenly the door swings open, and a Drakkarim officer strides out into the snow. He pulls on his iron helm and draws his wolfskin cloak close about him as he goes off to inspect his men's work. The door swings shut, but before it closes, you catch a glimpse of something that sparks your curiosity anew.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329"><link-text>Turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you strike your killing blow, the creature explodes with a flash of brilliant white light. As the glare fades, you see that nothing whatsoever remains of either its body or spirit. Magnaarn witnesses the death of his servant with a look of pure terror. He screams, and in a moment of panic, he touches the head of the Nyras Sceptre to the floor. There is a tremendous boom, and the floor shudders violently as it is torn wide open by a massive quake.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly, Magnaarn makes his escape through a curtained archway. Determined not to allow him to escape, you get ready to leap across the fissure which has opened up the chamber floor. It is no less than twenty feet wide at its narrowest point.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If your total is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If it is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard's eyes, made unnaturally large by the lens, narrow as he stares intently across the snowy eastern approaches to the tower. Immediately you slow yourself to a halt, fall to the ground, then begin utilizing your camouflage skills to keep you hidden from his unblinking gaze.</p>
- <p>With your cheek pressed flat to the snow, you glance firstly at the guard's face at the observation slit, then to Captain Prarg who is now climbing the stairs to tower door, his sword ready to hand. He reaches the door, throws it open, and disappears quickly inside. For a few moments there is complete silence, then he reappears, sheathes his bloodied blade, and beckons you to hurry to the tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take some bread and dried meat from your Backpack and offer it to your companion. Gratefully he accepts the food and settles himself at the base of a tree where hungrily he consumes every scrap. (Remember to deduct this Meal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Meanwhile you scan the surrounding forest, ever watchful for enemies. For the last hour you have had a growing suspicion that something has been watching you. Your senses detect the presence of a hostile entity, closing from the east. Now the suspicion has become a firm belief, and the moment Prarg finishes his meal, you suggest that you be on your way as swiftly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The current, and your powerful oar-strokes, propel you swiftly towards the Drakkarim renegades. You are fifty yards distant when the unexpected sight of your boat galvanizes them into action. They drop their makeshift fishing lines and take up their bows in readiness to fire the moment you are opposite their position. A growl from their pot-bellied leader passes for an order to fire, and suddenly you find yourself speeding through a cloud of deadly arrows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you possess a Bow and wish to return fire, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you do not possess a Bow, or choose not to return fire, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly you abandon your attempt to open this iron portal and turn instead to a sloping passageway which descends to a deeper subterranean level of this ancient temple. You set off down this damp passage and at length it ends at a vault where the only exit appears to be a vertical pit at its centre. Cautiously you approach the pit and peer through its barred grill.</p>
- <p>To your surprise, you see the floor of another torchlit passageway less than a dozen feet directly below the grill. With Prarg's help you pull open the rusty cover, then you lower yourself through the hole and drop down into the corridor below, followed by your companion. The pervading aura of evil is stronger now, and you feel certain that with every step you are drawing closer to finding the Doomstone. You are thinking to yourself that perhaps your progress has been almost too easy when suddenly you sense imminent danger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If your total score is now 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If it is 3&endash;6 <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Patiently you keep watch to the north, expecting to see the appearance of enemy cavalry at any moment. You do not have to wait too long, for within minutes of deciphering the crow's warning, you see the first few outriders of a Drakkarim platoon crest the horizon. You magnify your vision and recognize them to be part of Magnaarn's own army. They are carrying lances topped with pennants that bear Magnaarn's personal emblem: an eagle clasping two fiery swords. Steadily these cavalry scouts draw closer. They are riding directly towards the river.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect72-1-foot" idref="sect72-1">
- <p>This section is unreachable and superfluous since it is equivalent to <a idref="sect349">Section 349</a> and <a idref="sect185">Section 185</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the beast keels over backwards and splashes into the mire, you roll Prarg on to his back then watch as the remaining Ciquali, now leaderless, turn away and disappear as quickly as they had come, slipping back to the cold, dark safety of their hiding places beneath the surface. Silence returns, and for a long moment you stay alert, suspecting trickery, then slowly you relax; they have gone.<a id="sect72-1" idref="sect72-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <p>Aided by your healing skills, Prarg makes a speedy recovery from the battering he sustained in combat with the Ciquali chieftain. The boat, too, has survived the attack and you are able to continue without further delay. As soon as you pass the obstruction, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along the channel beyond.</p>
- <p>You are hungry after your encounter. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make swift progress, helped by the river's strong current. Gradually, as the day unfolds, the surrounding landscape changes from open plain to an expanse of low, rolling hills which are blackened and scarred by war. Ruined hovels smoulder on the horizon, and scores of snow-covered corpses, human and otherwise, lie scattered across the fields, their limbs frozen into impossible shapes.</p>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard's eyes, made unnaturally large by his magical lens, stare out across the snowy eastern approaches to the town. You are in plain view, less than a few dozen yards from his position, yet he fails to notice you racing to join your companion. Shielded by your Kai skills and aided by your fleetness of foot, you reach Prarg unobserved by this watchful defender.</p>
- <p>Prarg points ahead to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels close by the watchtower. You nod to confirm you understand his intentions, and without a word having been spoken, you follow as he runs towards the alley's shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap across the gap, but, as you land, you slip on the broken flooring and gash both knees: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Cursing your luck, you hobble towards the curtain through which Magnaarn disappeared and pull it aside to find a short flight of stone steps. You climb them and discover that they emerge at a turret at the very top of the Palace Tower, the highest point in the city of Darke.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Magnaarn cowers with his crooked back pressed against the frost-covered wall</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="649"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="649"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Here you find Magnaarn, cowering with his crooked back pressed hard against the frost-covered wall. You sense that he has very nearly succumbed to the evil power of the Doomstone; he is treading a fine line between life and undeath. Yet, even though he is but a whisker away from eternal damnation, he musters enough spite to challenge you to a fight to the death.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well, Drakkar,</quote> you reply, <quote>Let battle commence.</quote></p>
- <combat><enemy>Warlord Magnaarn (with Nyras Sceptre) </enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you draw an Arrow, take aim, and fire as the beast comes leaping through the air towards your chest. The arrow thuds into its furry belly but the momentum of its leap still carries it forwards.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow whistles over your head and sinks harmlessly into the muddy bank on the opposite side of the river. For ten minutes you lie in the bottom of the boat staring up at the grey sky as the river carries you downstream, and when eventually you pull yourself upright, you discover that the Drakkarim renegades are no longer in sight.</p>
- <p>Your voyage continues without further incident until, later in the afternoon, you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon reaching the base of the chasm you discover the ground to be slick with black, foul-smelling mud. It is peppered with broken slabs of rock, veined marble and other temple debris which have fallen from the many sundered levels above. You wade through this ankle-deep slime, following the course of the river as it rushes towards the brick-lined tunnel at a frightful speed. When you reach the tunnel entrance, to your relief you discover a solid stone walkway which runs parallel to the roaring water. From the roof of this echoing tunnel hang vast, bloated domes of stinking fungi which give off a grey-green radiance. It is an unwelcoming light, an illumination born of decay.</p>
- <p>You have taken a few hundred paces along the stone walkway when you are confronted by a massive iron grill. It stretches across the entire width of the tunnel and prevents you from continuing further in this direction. Nearby, a heavy chain hangs from a hole in the arched ceiling. Upon closer investigation you discover that it operates a concealed winch which raises and lowers the grill, like the portcullis of a castle. You are about to haul the chain and raise the grill when suddenly you hear a beast-like roar echoing along the tunnel, louder than the rushing water. You sense danger; something is approaching. You release the chain and spin around, your hand reaching instinctively to your weapon, but you are frozen immobile by the terrible sight of the creature that is now moving along the walkway towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This quarter of the town is now teeming with enemy soldiers, and as you hurry away from the cell window, you know that you are in grave danger of being caught unless you can find somewhere safe to hide.</p>
- <p>At length you discover a refuge on the far side of the main square. It is an empty grain storage tower which overlooks Magnaarn's headquarters and the gaol, and it is here that you spend a sleepless night contemplating the mission and the fate of your captured companion. Now that it appears Magnaarn has found the Doomstone, you know you should do as Captain Prarg insisted; you should try to reach Antah and confront him before he can use his new-found power against the Lencians. But you are loath to abandon your guide. You have promised Prarg that you will help him escape, and a Kai Grand Master never breaks his word. The Captain has been captured as a spy, and as such, he can expect no mercy from the Drakkarim.</p>
- <p>Soon after dawn you witness some activity in the main square which confirms your worst fears. A squad of Drakkarim engineers arrive and set to work constructing a raised wooden platform in the centre of the square.</p>
- <p>An hour later, when their work is complete, a covered wagon arrives. The engineers unload a large lump of black oak which they place in the middle of the platform, and as you focus on this block, a shiver runs the length of your spine the moment you realize its grim purpose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118"><link-text>Turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You will commence your mission at midnight,</quote> says the King, motioning you towards a small window which overlooks the busy harbour of Vadera. He points to a ship, one of several moored at the quayside, but one that is readily identifiable for it is the only vessel not in military service.</p>
- <p><quote>That trading sloop will carry you and the Captain to the small island you can see in the distance. That is Battle Isle. There you will find a sailing boat with enough provisions for your mission. The Captain knows where it is hidden and he will be responsible for your safe passage once you set sail for the Hellswamp. Remember, secrecy is vital to the success of your mission. Trust nobody save Captain Prarg.</quote></p>
- <p>The King voices his fear that Drakkarim spies are operating in the harbour and he expresses his concern that your unexpected arrival by air may have already alerted them to your presence here in Vadera. However, it is too late to change the plan; it is a risk you must accept.</p>
- <p>Having concluded your briefing, King Sarnac sends for an escort to take you to a private chamber where you can rest and reflect upon the mission ahead. Later that evening, you and Captain Prarg are smuggled out of the citadel via a secret passage which leads directly to the harbour. Quietly you board the sloop and hide yourselves amongst its cargo of supplies which are destined for the garrison on Battle Isle. The ship sets sail on the first strike of midnight and, after a smooth and uneventful voyage it moors at a jetty on the southern coast of Battle Isle, three hours later.</p>
- <p>The crew of the sloop are unaware that you are aboard and, in order to safeguard your secrecy, you await your chance to disembark without being seen. Soon the opportunity presents itself. As the crew go in search of help to unload the cargo, the two of you leave the sloop and hurry off along the beach, heading north towards the place where your sailing boat awaits. There is no cloud and a near-full moon illuminates the rocky beach, making it easy for you to progress despite the difficult terrain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell the three Lencians to spread out into an extended line and watch carefully for your signals. Then you scale the river bank and make your approach to the trees. The three men all seem to be competent scouts but you have your reservations. Had it not been for Schera's insistence, you would have preferred to scout this copse alone.</p>
- <p>You have only just entered the copse when one of the Lencians accidentally steps on a dry twig. There is a loud <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia>, and almost immediately, a volley of arrows comes screaming out of the trees, forcing you to throw yourself face-first into the snow to avoid being hit.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect226">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sudden jolt knocks you backwards off your horse and, as you hit the ground, you strike your head and lose consciousness. Sadly, you never reawaken. A few moments after your fall, you are mobbed by angry Drakkarim soldiers who slay you out of hand.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in Shugkona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect a strong presence of evil lurking somewhere nearby and you warn Prarg of what you sense. Cautiously, the two of you leave this chamber by a passage which leads to a flight of black stone steps. You ascend the steps to a domed chamber which is sheathed with dull black stone. Heavy velvet hangings of ebony hue cover most of the walls, and all of the furnishings are upholstered with the same morbid cloth. The sensation of evil is stronger here, so strong that you feel as if you are slowly suffocating.</p>
- <p><quote>It's here&ellips;</quote> you whisper, your hand reaching for your weapon, <quote>The Doomstone. I can feel its presence!</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a movement away to your left and a blast of white-hot energy comes roaring towards your face. You dive aside in time to avoid it, but the bolt rebounds from the steel-hard wall and glances off the back of Prarg's head, knocking him unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are some distance from the east bank when the boat stops abruptly; it has run aground in the shallows.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse our luck,</quote> grumbles Prarg, peering over the side. <quote>I was a'hoping we'd be fortunate enough t'keep our feet dry.</quote> Wearily he searches through the provisions and produces a heavy rope, one end of which he proceeds to tie around the bowhead while you stow away the oars. Then, together, you slip into the cold knee-deep mud and begin the laborious task of hauling the boat towards dry ground.</p>
- <p>Eventually you reach dry ground where you set up camp on a promontory which offers the best view of the surrounding swamp. The upturned boat becomes your shelter from the elements, but you both are sorely aware that it will not protect you from the creatures who inhabit this morass. Prarg volunteers to sit the first watch, and hungry for sleep, you bow to his request. But it seems as if you have only just closed your eyes when you are awoken by his hushed and fearful voice:</p>
- <p><quote>Awake Sire, I think we've visitors!</quote></p>
- <p>You rise in an instant, your hand reaching in reflex for your weapons as your senses try to locate the threat. In the middle-distance, emerging from a bed of tall, frost-heavy rushes, you catch sight of three large and scaly reptilians. From horn-tipped snout to barbed tail they are twenty feet or more, and, despite their enormous weight, they move with impressive lizard-like grace.</p>
- <p><quote>Gorodons!</quote> says Prarg, his voice full of horror. <quote>Quickly, Sire, we must get away while we still can!</quote></p>
- <p>Hurriedly you right the boat and drag it through the cloying mud towards the river. Your escape is painfully slow and your mounting fear rapidly approaches sheer terror when, in unison, the pursuing Gorodons give vent to a chorus of croaking growls At once you sense that these huge carnivores are ravenously hungry, and the prospect of a feast upon warm-blooded prey is driving them into a frenzy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If the number you have picked is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch with mounting anxiety as the Drakkar officer approaches the execution block. He halts beside the helpless Captain and signals to the gaolers to step back, to give him room to enact the execution. Then he takes an oiled stone from his pocket and an ugly sneer spreads across his face as he proceeds to sharpen the blade of the great axe with slow deliberation.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Invisible Shield</spell> and make a circle in the air with the palm of your left hand. But have you acted quickly enough to deflect the speeding arrow?</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your present <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 20 or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely the horse attempts to clear the trench, but it is simply too exhausted to jump. Its forelegs buckle as it approaches the edge, and you and Prarg are thrown head-first into the trench. Luckily, you both land in deep snow and emerge unharmed by the fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having finished your evening meal, you are faced with a difficult decision: who should take the first watch. Both of you are very tired, and after a whole day's rowing you are less than enthusiastic about the prospect of trying to stay awake for another four hours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you decide to volunteer for the first watch, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you would rather decide the matter on the toss of a coin, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect89-1-foot" idref="sect89-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step closer to the door and carefully examine the combination lock. You are confident that, with your skill and experience, you will soon have it open without too much difficulty.</p>
- <p>Study the following sequence of numbers. When you think you have worked out what the missing number is turn to the page which is identical to your answer.<a id="sect89-1" idref="sect89-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you guess incorrectly, or if you cannot solve the door puzzle, <link-text>turn instead to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes without incident and you awake to a bright dawn feeling refreshed by your long, uninterrupted sleep. Prarg, too, has slept well, and he feels eager to start the journey to Shugkona. Fresh snow has fallen during the night, and when you descend to the base of the tree, you discover several sets of footprints nearby. Your Pathsmanship senses tell you that they are little more than an hour old and were made by a Drakkarim patrol heading due north.</p>
- <p>You set off towards the north east, following a frozen stream that winds its way through the forest like a glistening crystal serpent. Luck and your Kai skills keep you safe from the Drakkarim patrols, and by noon you find yourselves approaching the outskirts of Shugkona. From the cover afforded by a small wooden footbridge that crosses the icy stream, you are able to reconnoitre this heavily fortified Drakkarim town. Log-lined trenches encircle most of its perimeter, fronted by pits filled with sharpened stakes to counter attacks by enemy cavalry. Mantlets and wheeled barricades defend its four highway approaches, and the whole line is manned by squads of Drakkarim and Hammerland mercenaries. However, this formidable protection comprises just a first line of defence behind which there are more fieldworks, sharpened stakes and watchtowers, many bearing recent scars of war. The town itself lies within this second circle. It is constructed entirely of wood, and many of its outermost buildings have, over the years, been reduced to ash by Lencian firebombs. You learn from Prarg that Magnaarn's headquarters are located at the very centre, in a high tower which commands a clear view over the town and its defensive lines.</p>
- <p>At first sight the Shugkona defences look impregnable, but after having carefully observed the perimeter lines you note two places where, with luck, you might enter the town without being observed. The first is close to the east road where an expanse of cleared ground is guarded only by a watchtower. The second is a section of the perimeter, further south, where only one line of trenches has been completed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you wish to try to enter Shugkona from the east, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you choose to try to enter Shugkona from the south, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few moments you stare at the lifeless body of the Tunnel Stalker, then you sheathe your weapon and continue the chore of clearing away the rockfall. Soon you have removed enough debris to enable you to squeeze through the gap to a clear section of the stairwell beyond. Once here, you block the opening behind you, and then race up the steps to the level above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your super-sensitive hearing detects the faint sound of stone grating on stone. Then you notice that a line of loopholes are opening at chest height along both walls of this passageway, revealing the sticky sharpened tips of venom-coated spears.</p>
- <p><quote>Get down!</quote> you shout, and throw yourself flat on to the damp stone floor. Moments later, a volley of the deadly spears comes hurtling from out of the walls to smash and splinter in the passageway. Both you and your companion escape injury, your timely warning saving you from certain death.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">To continue, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Follow me!</quote> shouts Prarg, and before you can stop him he is on his feet and sprinting away. Hurriedly you follow him, with the lookouts shouting wildly in your wake.</p>
- <p><quote>Halt!</quote> they scream, <quote>Halt or we shoot!</quote></p>
- <p>There is the sound of bowfire, then two arrows hit the rocks and shatter dose by your feet. You invoke your Magnakai skill of Invisibility to keep you safe, but your Discipline does not extend to Captain Prarg who is less than an arm's length ahead of you.</p>
- <p>Then your senses tingle anew, drawing your eyes towards a ridge less than thirty yards from the beach. Standing there, clutching loaded crossbows, are two more Lencian lookouts.</p>
- <p><quote>Beware!</quote> you cry to Prarg, but already the Lencians are preparing to fire at your fleeing forms.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If the number you have chosen is 0, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If it is 1&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a deep breath and launch yourself feet-first into the icy lake. At first, as the dark water closes over your head, your senses are numbed by the intense cold. Then your Magnakai skill of Nexus begins to protect your body and the cold gives way to a warm, tingling glow.</p>
- <p>Using your infravision, you detect Prarg by the warmth radiating from his body. He is caught upon a jagged ridge of ice and, as you take hold of his tunic and try to pull him free, suddenly you feel unable to move. Something has taken hold of your legs!</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you possess Magi-magic, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inspired by your victory, the Lencians and their League-land allies repel the remaining Zagganozod and close their ranks until the square is intact once more. The enemy are now exhausted and wearily they retreat across the plain with the stinging cheers of their foes echoing in their ears.</p>
- <p>Then an ominous noise comes rolling across the plain from the city of Darke, a thunderous boom that shakes the very ground on which you stand. You look towards the city and see that the battle is growing ever fiercer. But now there is a new and sinister aspect. Flickerings of magical fire can be seen dancing along battlements, engulfing friend and foe alike. You sense that it is the work of Magnaarn; he and his Nadziranim allies are responsible for this.</p>
- <p>Then, through the smoke of battle, you see a Lencian flag flying proudly amidst the carnage that is taking place on the coastal plain to the south of the city. Here, King Sarnac's crusaders have turned an enemy flank and are storming its weakened centre. Maquin and Schera see the flag and, encouraged by the cheers of their own men, they decide to march at once in support of the crusader's brave attack.</p>
- <p>You wish them both good fortune, for you know the time has come to part company with these brave men. Their destiny awaits them on the field of battle; yours will be found inside the city of Darke itself where, if you are to fulfil your quest, you must confront Warlord Magnaarn.</p>
- <p>You bid them farewell and watch as they lead their men in a marching column across the plain towards the distant field of battle. When they are a mile away, you set off alone towards the hamlet, which lies en route to the gates of Darke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the stables by a side door and soon find a hiding place in one of a hundred straw-filled stalls. You also find the following items which may be of use to you:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Lantern</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Enough food for 2 Meals</li>
- <li>Hourglass</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Periodically, Drakkarim enter and search the building, but they fail to detect you. While you are hiding from their search parties, you consider your companion's plight and grow ever more fearful for his safety. You are also very anxious that, under torture, he will reveal your presence, your identity and the reason why you have come to this town. You are determined not to allow this to happen and so, as midnight approaches, you slip away from your hiding place and make your way stealthily towards the Shugkona Gaol.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Schera considers your question, then he replies:</p>
- <p><quote>I'm sorry, I've heard nothing. There have been so many men lost, killed, or captured since Magnaarn attacked. I know of this officer, and though we've never met, I've heard tell that he is a good and brave man. All I can tell you is that I have not seen him here in Konozod.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect236"><link-text>Turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This dry and crumbling surface is the worst you have ever attempted to climb, but it does not defeat you. Your consummate climbing skills and natural grace of movement ensure that you do not falter for a moment. You clear this section of the chasm wall and safely reach the ledge above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic attack penetrates the war-dog's mind, causing it to howl with pain and terror. Immediately the others halt in their tracks, visibly shaken by the horrible cries issuing from their leader as he rolls over and over in the snow. You sense that the pack is torn now between its desire to satisfy its gnawing hunger and its natural instinct for survival. Eventually the instinct for preservation wins out, and one by one the dogs turn and flee for the safety of the forest.</p>
- <p>Confident that the Akataz will not be back this night, you return to the boat to catch some sleep while Prarg begins his turn on guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the cover of the forest's edge you observe the temple, taking in every detail, your eyes scouring every inch of its leprous grey exterior for a way of gaining entry without being detected. Much of the temple is derelict yet it is still an imposing edifice, especially the squat stone tower which stands intact at its centre. Its walls are covered with intricate designs that must have taken centuries to complete, yet while you admire the craftsmanship you find the embellishments wholly repulsive for they depict and glorify acts of great evil.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The ruins are deserted, except for a wide ramp of stone which leads to a pair of huge bronze doors set into the base of the tower. These doors are open, but they are guarded by two of Warlord Magnaarn's Tukodak.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you have Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly, you abandon your attempt to open this door and retrace your steps to the junction. Prarg leads you along the opposite passageway until you come to a corner. He turns the corner before you can warn him otherwise and finds himself staring at the brutish features of a Drakkarim Death Knight Sergeant. The warrior's curses echo loudly along the narrow corridor as he draws his sword and comes striding towards your careless companion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you do not, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Along the walkway comes a lumbering hulk with cold scarlet eyes. This beast is covered with a vile fur which glistens in the grey-green light of the tunnel. Its long sinewy arms are outstretched and in both of its huge hands it holds chunks of dagger-like flint. Its bloated belly skims the floor as it stalks closer, and a brown gluey saliva bubbles and runs freely from its fanged lower jaw.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A beast with cold scarlet eyes lumbers along the walkway.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="562"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="562"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Using your Kai mastery you command this beast to halt and for a few seconds it ceases to advance, but you can sense that it is being driven by a desperate hunger, a hunger that could prove stronger than your Kai mastery.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above Kai Grand Master Superior, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Layers of heavy snow clouds blanket the moon, and dusk quickly fades to a darkness which is total. Yet, using your Magnakai night vision, you experience no difficulties as you follow Magnaarn's tracks across the open plain.</p>
- <p>Shortly before midnight you come to the banks of the River Shug, close to a small cluster of log huts which are grouped around a derelict ferry post. Your enemy's week-old tracks lead you to the centre of this deserted settlement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus on the distant mass of floating vegetation as you evoke the Brotherhood spell <spell>Sense Evil</spell> and immediately you are able to feel the presence of several hostile creatures. They are lying in ambush beneath the raft of weeds and among the dank thickets which line the adjoining bank.</p>
- <p>You tell Prarg of what lies ahead, and wisely he heeds your warning. He suggests you draw in the mainsail to prevent the wind from propelling your boat any nearer to the obstruction, yet once the sail is gathered, still you find yourselves drifting inexorably towards your would-be ambushers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you wish to make use of the oars in order to escape from probable ambush, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you choose to do nothing further to prevent the boat from drifting towards the raft of weeds, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two commanders have a great respect for your Kai instincts and immediately they order their men to return to the river bank. Once you are in position, you keep your eyes glued to the north, expecting to see the appearance of the enemy at any moment. You do not have to wait too long, for within minutes of returning here, you see the first few outriders of a Drakkarim cavalry platoon crest the horizon.</p>
- <p>You magnify your vision and recognize them to be part of Magnaarn's own army. They are carrying lances topped with pennants that bear Magnaarn's personal emblem: an eagle clasping two fiery swords. Steadily these cavalry scouts draw closer. They are riding directly towards the river.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If the number you have picked is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If the number is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8), <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the distance you see a makeshift roadblock. Several trees have been hacked down and they are strewn haphazardly across the road. Behind this obstruction stand several armoured Drakkarim, waiting eagerly for you to appear.</p>
- <p>At once, you leave the road and take cover in the forest. The trees hereabouts are too dense to allow you to enter on horseback, so reluctantly you abandon the mare and enter on foot. Your instinct and Pathsmanship skills lead you in a westerly direction and you cover more than five miles before the trees begin to thin out. Then you emerge from the forest to be greeted by a spectacular sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192"><link-text>Turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach Bear Rock shortly before dusk. The landmark is a massive granite boulder, weather-worn into the shape of a huge bear standing upright with its forepaws extended. It is positioned on the west side of the Gourneni and overshadows a sheltered cove formed where, over the centuries, the river has undercut the bank. Here you bring the boat ashore and make camp for the night.</p>
- <p>Over your evening meal you discuss the next leg of your mission. In the morning you will hide the boat before setting off cross-country towards Magnaarn's headquarters at Shugkona. Fifty miles of dense timberland separate you from this town and, in current conditions, you estimate it will take at least two days to reach.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you possess Animal Mastery <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flatten yourself against the bottom of the rowboat and listen to the gruff voices of the Drakkarim as you draw closer to their position. You hear splashes, then suddenly there is a loud thud and the rusty tip of an arrow punches its way through the side of the boat, stopping barely inches in front of your face. You hear the enemy's coarse laughter and you realize that they are simply using your boat for a spot of target practice. They are unaware that you are hiding inside. As you drift past them they rapidly lose interest in your craft. They put down their bows, pick up their makeshift fishing lines, and resume their efforts to catch themselves something to stave off their hunger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251"><link-text>Turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you have been greatly weakened by your internment, your powers of Nexus are still sufficient to neutralize the effects of the noxious fumes.</p>
- <p>As your mind clears and your strength returns, you approach the circular door and take a closer look at its strange octagonal lock. It comprises a keyhole and a series of numbers, although one of the numbers is clearly missing. Experience tells you that this is a dual combination lock, one that can be opened either by key or by tapping in the correct number which is missing from the sequence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess a Green Key, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look down at your feet, and using your infravision, you see the outline of a huge, slug-like amphibian poised no more than a fathom below. Wrapped tightly around your legs are two rope-like tentacles which extend from a sac beneath the creature's solitary eye. You try to kick free but it will not easily let you go. Slowly it is drawing you deeper into the lake.</p>
- <p>Desperate to get free, you summon to mind the Elder Magi battle spell of <spell>Concussion</spell>. Then you project your right hand at the creature and a deep boom resonates in your head, its effect greatly amplified by the water. At once the creature releases you and dives for the shelter of its lair, trailing blood from those parts of its body which pass for its ears.</p>
- <p>Once free, you take hold of Prarg's tunic and pull him towards the jagged hole in the ice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313"><link-text>Turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release your drawstring and send the Arrow screaming towards the creature's hairless skull. Almost immediately it strikes the beast above its right eye and, although it does not penetrate bone, the shock of the impact knocks the Ciquali off its webbed feet and sends it tumbling backwards into the water.</p>
- <p>You shoulder your Bow and rush to help Prarg who is lying, barely conscious, with his face in the shallow water which is sloshing around at the bottom of the boat. You are reaching down to pull him over on to his back when suddenly you feel two pairs of scaly hands grab hold of your cloak. With a loud growl, you spin around and unsheathe your weapon in readiness to deal with your attackers.</p>
- <p>They are two Ciquali, their hides decorated with ritual scars which mark them as warriors of their tribe. At first they back away, shocked by the speed of your reflexes, but rapidly their nerve returns and, half-crouched, they glare at you with their hideous, bulging eyes. Their throat sacs swell and collapse with increasing rapidity as they approach the moment to strike, then, with a shrill screech, they raise their claw-tipped hands and leap simultaneously towards your chest</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ciquali</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">27</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you rise up out of the snow and run to the tower where you meet up with Prarg at the foot of the wooden steps.</p>
- <p><quote>That guard'll not be raising any alarms,</quote> he says, cocking his thumb behind him towards the tower door. <quote>And they'll not find him too soon, neither.</quote></p>
- <p>You smile knowingly. Then Prarg points to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels at the edge of the town, and suggests you go that way.</p>
- <p><quote>Lead on Captain,</quote> you say, and follow as he runs towards the alley's shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon, turn the corner, and run at the Death Knight with it held ready to strike him down. The warrior meets your stare and laughs. Confidently he parries your first blow, then strikes out for your neck.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Death Knight</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">33</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the treacherous surface, your consummate climbing skills and natural grace of movement ensure that you do not falter for a moment. You clear this section of the chasm wall and reach the base safely.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once inside the stable you discover two horses. One is old and lame, but the other is young and powerfully built. Using your powers of Animal Control, you subdue them and lead the younger horse, a grey mare, from its stall. As you leave the stable you see Prarg pointing frantically towards the crest of the hill. A troop of Drakkarim cavalry are descending towards the bridge.</p>
- <p>Quickly you mount the mare and help Prarg to climb up upon her back. Then the enemy see you and immediately they sound a horn. Moments later an old Drakkar appears at the door to the cabin. He is holding a Bor musket, and when you fail to obey his command to halt, he levels his primitive gun at you and pulls the trigger.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect342">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Drakkar who is carrying the sack appears to be very anxious. His companion also seems wary and alert. As you are moving towards the doorway, he glimpses you and commands you to halt at once. When you do not obey, the two of them draw their swords and come running towards the doorway with their blades held ready to cut you down.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Escorts</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove your hand and uncover the proud countenance of King Ulnar V stamped on the face of the coin.</p>
- <p><quote>Well done, Prarg. You've guessed correctly,</quote> you say, and press the Gold Crown back into your pouch. <quote>I'll stand the first watch&emdash;you get some sleep. We've a long march ahead of us tomorrow and you'll need all your strength.</quote></p>
- <p>Prarg breaths a sigh of relief, and while he settles himself down to sleep in the relative comfort of the boat, you pull your cloak about you and climb to the top of Bear Rock where you begin your lonely vigil.</p>
- <p>For hours you sit on this windswept boulder, staring out through a curtain of swirling snow at the surrounding timberline. Despite your fatigue you stay alert and your iron discipline pays off when, shortly before midnight, you sense movement at the forest's edge. Then your super-keen Kai senses detect an animal scent on the cold air which you recognize immediately: it is Akataz.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163"><link-text>Turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The solid lump of oak is an executioner's block. Its surface is cut and scarred by blows from a heavy axe, and its sides are stained dark with the blood of a hundred Lencian prisoners who have lost their lives upon it.</p>
- <p>Suddenly your thoughts are disturbed by the rhythmic stamp of marching feet and your eyes are drawn to the avenue which runs alongside Magnaarn's headquarters. Down this thoroughfare come a regiment of Drakkarim. They file into the square and form up in three lines facing the platform. Then an open wagon, drawn by a brace of half-starved oxen, emerges from the alleyway beside the gaol. Captain Prarg is standing in the rear of the wagon with his hands tied behind his back. Despite the bumpy ride he stands rigidly at attention, proudly defiant in the face of imminent death. The wagon halts and the Captain is dragged up onto the platform by three brutish gaolers. He is made to kneel down before the block as a Drakkar officer hurriedly reads the contents of a scroll to the assembled troops. He is condemning the Captain to death for spying. When he finishes the reading, he takes a two-handed axe from one of the gaolers and walks slowly across the platform towards the block. Clearly he intends to carry out the execution personally.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Captain is dragged up on to the platform and is made to kneel before the sold oak executioner's block.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you do not possess a Bow, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn instead to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the creature's expression changes from fierce anger to stark fear. It drops its flint weapons, turns on its heel, and scurries off along the tunnel as fast as it can. Your use of Animal Mastery has been successful; it has subdued the creature's natural instincts and totally shattered its will.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Confident that it will not return, you take hold of the heavy chain and pull it to raise the grill a few feet off the walkway, just high enough for you to duck under the rusty bars and continue along this tunnel. After a few hundred yards, the tunnel turns to the south. At this point you discover a flight of slimy steps that ascend from the walkway towards a darkened arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to ascend the steps to the arch, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you decide to ignore the steps and continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your final blow kills the scarlet wasp-leader and immediately the surviving swarm members break off their attack. They stream towards the opening at the centre of the ceiling and disappear towards the sky at the top of the shaft, closely followed by the remainder of their colony.</p>
- <p>When you feel sure that the nests are empty, you reach up and take a grip of the rough brick which lines the shaft. It offers good purchase for your fingers and toes, enabling you to climb past the nests and reach the top of the shaft in a matter of minutes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect121-1-foot" idref="sect121-1">
- <p>The most reasonable way to treat the temporary <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> gain is reduce your score at the end of combat <em>only</em> if it is above your original score. Another choice would be to reduce your score at the end of combat unless it would cause your score to fall to zero. The only other option would be to reduce your score regardless which would make the spell pointless.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature utters a spine-chilling shriek as it comes bounding towards you, its sabre-like teeth glinting in the wintery sun. You step back and draw your weapon just in time to defend yourself as it makes its first strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mawtaw</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to the effects of Mindblast and Psi-surge. If you choose to use Kai-surge, add only 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-alchemy and have reached the rank of Sun Knight, you may increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point scores by 5 each for the duration of this combat.<a id="sect121-1" idref="sect121-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fifty yards along the tunnel, you turn a corner and find yourself face-to-face with a nightmarish creature. From out of the gloom comes a lumbering hulk that fixes you with its pair of hungry scarlet eyes. The beast is covered with a vile fur which glistens in the eerie half-light of the tunnel, and its long sinewy arms are outstretched as if it is sleepwalking. But this beast is not asleep. In both of its huge hands it holds chunks of dagger-like flint which it wields like weapons. Its distended belly skims the floor as it gathers speed, and a brown gluey saliva runs freely from its fanged lower jaw.</p>
- <p>With a shriek, the creature comes lunging towards you, flailing the air with its dagger-flints as it closes in for the kill. You step back and get ready to defend yourself as the beast rushes towards you at a breathtaking pace.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Stalker</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear approaching footsteps, then through the open archway comes a Lencian soldier attired in the parade tunic and breeches of a Court Captain. He is unusually tall, but his most striking feature is his close-set eyes which are bright above his thin, hawk-like nose and bushy black moustache.</p>
- <p><quote>May I introduce you to Captain Prarg,</quote> says King Sarnac. <quote>He will be your guide.</quote></p>
- <p>The Captain shakes your hand and bows his head respectfully.</p>
- <p><quote>'Tis an honour to have been the one chosen to accompany you. Grand Master Lone Wolf, on such a noble quest</quote>'</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch the Drakkarim sergeant, who is pilfering his Captain's private stock of wine, tilt the bottle back to take another long gulp. He belches loudly, then bangs in the cork and replaces the bottle on the shelf before turning to leave. You wait until he is out of view before you slip into the cabin and close the door.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="117"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="117"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You hurry to the table but, to your disappointment, the map you glimpsed earlier turns out to be merely a construction plan of the encampment. It offers no clues to Magnaarn's present location.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you wish to search this cabin more thoroughly, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose to leave the cabin and return to Prarg, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clamber over the bodies that are heaped chest-high around the shattered city gates, then you begin to fight your way steadily towards the centre of this terrible stronghold. Beyond the entrance you see that a wild battle is raging through the streets. A regiment of Lencian Crusaders are fighting to wrestle possession of the keep from a determined horde of Magnaarn's Drakkarim. The tide turns against the Lencians and as they are driven back towards the gates, you are forced to climb a stair which leads to the battlements in order to avoid being lost in the crush. Halfway up the steps you are attacked by a Drakkar armed with sword and shield. You duck his clumsy swipe and lash out at his chest. He catches your blow on his shield, but the sheer force of your attack hurls him down on the steps where he remains, cradling his broken arm, tears streaming down his soot-blackened face.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You stride up the steps towards the battlements where a group of Lencians are locked in combat with two Death Knights. The Crusaders slay their enemies, but they, in turn, are slain when a bolt of crackling crimson energy rips through their shiny steel armour, fired from the tip of a wizard's staff. Their lifeless bodies come tumbling down the steps, knocking you flat on your back and pinning you down beneath the weight of their armour. You struggle to get free, but you are being observed by the one who slayed the knights: an evil Nadziranim wizard. He levels his staff at your head and a swirling trail of sparks ignites at its tip. With imminent death staring you full in the face, you steel yourself to meet your maker.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You head towards an archway in the far wall, advancing with caution as you traverse the slippery mounds of rubble which litter the floor of this damp and unwholesome chamber. A short tunnel lies beyond the arch. It ends at a junction where a wider passageway crosses from west to east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you wish to go west, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you wish to go east, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Whilst observing the guards, a bold idea springs to mind. You tell Prarg to take a firm grip of your cloak and stay close as you cross the clearing and approach to within twenty yards of the stone ramp. At this point you use your Discipline of Assimilance to summon a fog from out of the frozen ground. A dense white vapour arises which quickly envelops the guards before they can take steps to avoid it. Vainly, the two Tukodaks shout to each other and stab at the mist with their spears, lest an enemy should be poised to attack them. With Prarg clinging to your cloak, you slip past the confused guards with ease and make your way into the tower unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You run to the edge of the fissure and make your leap, but, as you take off, you slip on a loose stone and fall head-first into the yawning void.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the Palace Tower of Darke.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After your meal, you leave Prarg and climb to the top of the river bank. Here, using your Grand Mastery, you send forth a mental command into the surrounding forest, summoning creatures to your aid. At first there is no response, then a pair of white Nyras Timberwolves appear at the forest's edge and, upon your command, they approach you. Normally these wolves are wild and feral creatures, slave to nothing save their natural instincts, yet your mastery over them is total; they are utterly compliant to your will.</p>
- <p>You command the two wolves to guard your camp while you and Prarg are sleeping. With a blink of their eyes they acknowledge your order and settle themselves on their haunches. You return to the boat and tell Prarg what you have done. At first he is sceptical, but having already witnessed some of your powers in action, he does not protest too hard, especially as he can now look forward to a long sleep without having to stand watch. Unfortunately for Prarg, his hopes for an uninterrupted night's rest are soon shattered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41"><link-text>Turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the tower steps and look up to see Captain Prarg emerging from the open door. Quickly he descends, sheathing his bloodied sword as he hurries down the steps to meet you.</p>
- <p><quote>That guard'll not be raising any alarms,</quote> he says, cocking his thumb behind him towards the tower door. <quote>And they'll not be finding him too soon, neither.</quote></p>
- <p>You smile knowingly, and commend your guide for his swift and brave action. Then Prarg points to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels at the edge of the town, and suggests you enter Shugkona that way.</p>
- <p><quote>Lead on Captain,</quote> you say, and follow as he hurries off towards the alley's shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With mixed feelings you begin your trek through the forest. You are still hopeful of defeating Magnaarn, but you are less than enthusiastic about the prospect of having to foot-slog more than 250 miles in order to reach Darke, the city where you are most likely to find your sworn enemy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your acute hearing detects the faint sound of stone grating on stone. Then you notice that a line of loopholes are opening at chest height along both walls of the passageway, revealing the sticky sharpened tips of venom-coated spears.</p>
- <p><quote>Get down!</quote> you shout, and throw yourself flat on to the damp stone floor. Moments later, a volley of the deadly spears comes hurtling from out of the walls to smash and splinter in the passageway. Your timely warning saves you and Prarg from certain death, but one of the spears ricochets and gouges the back of your thigh.</p>
- <p>Your Magnakai Curing skills neutralize the venom, but the wound is deep and painful: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">To continue, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon and strike one of the sentries a killing blow as you slam through their brave but futile defence. They are trampled under your horse's hooves and you clear the gap, but it is not until you are racing along the road beyond the barricade that you realize you have been wounded in the leg: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">To continue, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature opens its great jaws and from the depths of its throat it coughs forth a guttering ball of flame. Immediately, your senses alert you to the fact that this is no ordinary fireball; it is wholly psychic in nature. It comes roaring towards you, like a mini-sun trailing fiery orange sparks, and although you try to dodge aside, it follows your feint and hits you in the back with numbing force. Unless you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The sudden jolt knocks you to the floor. Before you fully recover your footing, the creature seizes its advantage and comes leaping through the air towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283"><link-text>Turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within ten yards of the west bank the boat stops abruptly when it runs aground in the silted shallows.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse our fortunes,</quote> grumbles Prarg, peering over the side. <quote>I was a'hoping we'd be lucky enough t'keep our feet dry.</quote> Wearily he searches through the provisions and produces a heavy rope, one end of which he proceeds to tie around the bowhead while you stow away the oars. Then, together, you slip into the cold knee-deep mud and begin the laborious task of hauling the boat towards dry ground.</p>
- <p>You encamp on a strip of frozen loam and use the upturned boat as a shelter from the elements. As night falls, so, too, does the temperature. You cast your experienced eye across the darkening skies and see banks of cloud, heavy with snow, scudding the distant horizon. They are an unwelcome sight, the precursors to a winter storm.</p>
- <p>Prarg volunteers to sit the first watch but, mindful that his need for rest is greater than yours, you insist that he be the first to get some sleep. For four hours you sit and scan the bleak horizon, your mind filled with unanswered questions about the mission and the dangers you have yet to face. While you ponder what may await you in the future, you remain watchful and alert, for the risk of an attack by the denizens of this swamp is ever present. Fortunately, the cold dissuades them from leaving their lairs this night and your watch passes without incident. Then the time comes for you to awaken Prarg. With a distinct lack of enthusiasm he takes over whilst you settle down to catch a few hours of much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately below the window of the grain tower sits a Drakkar lancer astride his warhorse. He is one of a dozen troopers who have been posted around the perimeter of the square to guard its many exits, but he is more interested in watching the execution than carrying out his duty. His lance is sheathed in a tube-like scabbard fixed to the rear of his saddle, and all his attention is focused on the platform. He is unaware that you are hiding barely a few yards from where he sits.</p>
- <p>The officer puts away his oiled stone and a murmur of expectation ripples through the assembled Drakkarim as he gets ready to raise the axe. Captain Prarg has no more than a few minutes left to live; you must act now if you are to save him. Using a Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> you will the lancer to dismount from his horse, and at once he obeys your mental command. He climbs down, and as he wanders away, you leap from the open window and land in the empty saddle. Seizing the reins you spur the horse forward and it takes off across the square at a gallop. Then you unholster the lance and bring it to bear as you race headlong towards the backs of the Drakkarim soldiers who are standing between you and the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull your cloak close about your shoulders and draw upon your camouflage skills to keep you hidden as you follow the two Drakkarim towards the town gates. Their sergeant berates them, then he orders them to assist with a new influx of Lencians, just arrived. They are all so preoccupied with their duties that they fail to see you stride confidently through the open gates and into the town. Once safely inside, you head towards a dark, deserted alleyway which is sandwiched between a stables and an armoury. From here you observe the compound with a growing anger and pity for those trapped inside. Stirred by their plight, you vow to do what you can to help these starving men. Patiently you watch and wait for the patrols to pass, then you scurry towards the compound fence, eager to make contact with the Lencians.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After several minutes spent surveying the gloomy chasm, you note two promising features. One is situated fifty feet or so directly above your head. At first it merely looks like a narrow ledge of rock with a grey semicircular shadow poised above it, but when you look closely, you see that it is the mouth of a passageway.</p>
- <p>The second feature lies far below you. It is a large, brick-lined tunnel situated at the eastern edge of the chasm floor, through which the waters of the dark river flow away. This, too, may offer a way out of this subterranean prison.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you wish to attempt to climb the chasm wall and enter the passageway above, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you wish to attempt to descend to the floor of the chasm and escape via the river tunnel, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you hack and stab at the ice but it simply will not break. Reluctantly you abandon the attempt, sheathe your weapon, arid run back towards the jagged hole. You have no choice now but to enter the water. Prarg will soon be beyond help if you delay much longer.</p>
- <p>You take a deep breath and launch yourself feet-first into the icy lake. At first, as the dark water closes over your head, your senses are numbed by the intense cold. Then your Magnakai skill of Nexus protects your body and the terrible chill gives way to a warm, tingling sensation.</p>
- <p>Using your infravision, you detect Prarg by the warmth radiating from his body. He is caught upon a jagged ridge of ice and, as you take hold of his tunic and try to pull him free, suddenly you feel unable to move. Something has taken hold of your legs!</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you possess Magi-magic, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within the hour the final preparations for your airborne voyage to Lencia are completed, and Lord Floras and you are piped aboard the <cite>Skyrider</cite> by Bo'sun Nolrim and his cheerful crew of dwarves. You exchange a few reminiscences with each of the jovial crewmen and cannot help but smile when they tell you how proud they feel to have been given the chance to serve you once more.</p>
- <p>Nolrim takes the helm and you sense a vibration run down the length of the deck as he coaxes the craft's powerful engine to life. Lord Floras joins you at the prow and together you wave a farewell to Rimoah and your fellow Kai as, steadily, the <cite>Skyrider</cite> ascends into the crisp, wintery sky. Then, with a sudden surge of power, the keel clears the battlements of the Tower of the Sun and swiftly the monastery and its inhabitants recede into the distance.</p>
- <p>You and your companion are escorted to a warm cabin at the bow which has been prepared especially for your passage. It is well stocked with provisions and, spread out across a grand oak table, you find several maps of Northern Magnamund. Aided by Lord Floras, you study these maps and use them to chart your course to the Lencian city-port of Vadera. Bo'sun Nolrim is informed of your chosen route and, as he sets about implementing your course, you settle back to enjoy what will be a long voyage. By your calculations, it will take thirty hours for the <cite>Skyrider</cite> to reach its destination.</p>
- <p>During your voyage, Lord Floras recounts the dramatic events which have taken place in the Western Tentarias since the demise of the Darklords. Prior to their fall, the Drakkarim nations had for many centuries kept the Lencians at bay. Countless crusades had been undertaken to recapture their former lands but all had ended in costly defeat for the House of Sarnac. Then, two years ago, the tide finally turned when the King launched an invasion across the Gulf of Lencia into the lands of Zaldir and Nyras. The boldness of his strategy and the unpreparedness of his enemies combined to win for him many victories in the early months of the war. Much of Zaldir and all of southern Nyras were taken and held by his conquering knights, and now the lines of battle are drawn diagonally across the centre of Nyras, from Lake Lenag in the north to the marshland fortress of Lozonzee in the east. However, King Sarnac cannot lay claim to total victory in the south, for the cities of Shpyder and Darke have defied all his attempts at capture. Their Drakkarim garrisons have steadfastly held on to these important strongholds and, although they have been surrounded and besieged for more than a year, still they refuse to surrender.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>At present, the war is focused around the towns of Hokidat and Konozod,</quote> says Lord Floras, tracing a circle around their location on the map with the tip of his index finger. <quote>Many battles have been fought here but victory has, as yet, eluded us. Now, with the onset of a cruel winter, our advance has ground to a halt. Maintaining the sieges at Shpyder and Darke has drained us of troops and resources that would have been put to better use in the north. To compensate for this shortage, the King has employed many companies of foreign mercenaries to reinforce his armies in the field, but their services are expensive and the campaign has already proved costly, both in revenue and lives. The King is hard pressed to pay for their continued loyalty and already several regiments have deserted. If Magnaarn were to complete his quest and strike now, whilst our battle lines are weakened, his counterattack could push us all the way back to the sea.</quote></p>
- <p>Lord Floras' report is sobering, yet it serves to strengthen your determination to thwart Magnaarn's quest. Later, shortly before nightfall, you leave the cabin and go up to the stern deck for a breath of fresh air. In quiet solitude you see the great expanse of the Slovarian plain passing by more than a mile beneath the craft and, as you watch, you lose yourself in thoughts of what may await your arrival in Lencia. The night sky is clear and laced with twinkling stars. As you return to the cabin to sleep, you draw comfort from the thought that the weather and the stars have seen fit to help speed your night passage to Vadera.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257"><link-text>Turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of your scouts hurries to your side and takes hold of your arm, fearful that you have been mortally wounded. You pull away and brusquely you tell him that you are not seriously hurt and that he should watch where he steps in future. Sheepishly he follows as you creep forward through the snow, using the sparse undergrowth to your advantage wherever possible. You move deeper into the copse until you spy where the arrow came from. A small camp is hidden among the trees. It comprises four white canvas tents attended by a dozen lean and hungry-looking human soldiers armed with longbows. A furled battle-flag stands propped against one of the tents and you ask your scout if he recognizes its chequered black-and-white design.</p>
- <p><quote>They're League-landers of Ilion,</quote> he whispers. <quote>I know that flag well. They're good mercenaries, these men, loyal to the King. We fought alongside them at Hokidat.</quote></p>
- <p>You are anxious about risking another volley of arrows, but when you tell your companion of your fears, he smiles.</p>
- <p><quote>Don't worry, Sire,</quote> he says, <quote>I know how to make safe contact with them.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Abandoning the shelter of the bridge, you work your way slowly along the ice-filled ditch to a point directly in front of the south trench. Here you settle to observe the Drakkarim guards who are dutifully keeping watch over this sector. All you can see of them is their brutal faces peering over the rim of their dugout, but, after a while, one by one these faces disappear. Your keen hearing detects the sound of laughter, some clicks, and a few Giak curses, and judging by what you have heard you hazard a guess that the guards are busy gambling with dice.</p>
- <p>You decide that now would be the best time to make your move, while the guards are distracted from their duty. Prarg insists that he lead the way; he has crossed here once before and he knows a safe way through. The ground in front of the trench-line looks clear but there are concealed pits out there just waiting to snare the careless or unwary. You nod your agreement and follow in his wake as he crawls a zig-zagging route towards the distant trench.</p>
- <p>Two minutes later you reach the mound of frost-hardened earth abutting the dugout. Silently you motion to Prarg to get ready to attack, but before he can draw his sword, one of the enemy guards pops his head up to take a cursory glance over the parapet. He is less than an arm's length from you, and his eyes and mouth spring open with sheer terror when he finds himself staring into the face of a Kai Grand Master!</p>
- <p>Instinctively you lash out with the edge of your hand, aiming for his right temple, hoping to render him unconscious before he can warn his confederates. But the shock of seeing you makes him reel backwards, and your blow misses by a hair's breadth.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If the number you have chosen is 0&endash;2, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If it is 3&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect164">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You face the portal and shape your mouth in readiness to emit the power-word battle spell, as taught to you by your trusted friend, Lord Rimoah.</p>
- <p><quote>Gloar!</quote></p>
- <p>The word slams into the portal's lock like an invisible hammer before reverberating around the walls of this confined chamber. A spider's web of cracks appear in the surface of the portal and, when you place your shoulder to it and push hard, the lock breaks and the door gives way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Without a rigged sail, the stinking marsh wind propels your boat along the channel at a far slower rate. Gradually you approach the cluster of huts and, as you pass before them, you see eight dwellings, each built of mud-daubed roots and thatched with rotting vegetation. They are empty but they have not been deserted. The shoreline is littered with bones, the remnants of past meals, and nearby is a crude wooden frame on which the skins of a snake and a lizard have been stretched out to dry.</p>
- <p><quote>It's a Ciquali camp,</quote> whispers Prarg nervously, his eyes scouring the surrounding waters for the slightest sign of movement. During your travels you have heard tales about the Ciquali, none of which were favourable. They are the bane of the Hellswamp&emdash;a breed of vicious amphibians, intelligent and cunning, with a taste for human flesh that makes them especially dangerous.</p>
- <p><quote>Our luck's good, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Prarg, as gradually the wind carries you beyond the huts. <quote>The camp's empty&emdash;they must be away hunting. Truly we're fortunate to have come this way this time.</quote></p>
- <p>As soon as you lose sight of the settlement, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along Dakushna's Channel. You are hungry, and unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a loud <onomatopoeia>bang</onomatopoeia> and a great grey cloud billows from the muzzle of the musket. It startles the horse, but you swiftly control the animal and urge it forwards, out onto the road. Quickly you make your escape northwards, hidden from the eyes of your pursuing enemy by the acrid cloud of gunpowder smoke.</p>
- <p>Your ears are ringing but otherwise you escape unharmed. Prarg however has not been so lucky. His arm and shoulder are bleeding from where he has been grazed by buckshot. You halt as soon as you can, and using your healing skills, you mend his wounds before continuing on your way. The use of your powers reduces your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 3.</p>
- <p>The mare is strong and sure-footed, and you quickly cover eight miles before you encounter something on the road ahead which makes you halt for a second time.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From here you hurry into the new tunnel in search of a clear route to the surface. Unfortunately, your hopes for a quick escape are soon dashed when you arrive at a ruined staircase. It leads to a landing where you are confronted by the corpse of a Drakkarim guard, slumped beside a mound of rubble which is blocking the stairs to the level above. A quick examination of the dead body reveals that both arms are broken. Injured and trapped here by the falling rocks, it appears that this guard eventually died of thirst.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you wish to search the body further, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to attempt to clear away the rubble that is blocking the stairs, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt hits the lock and, to your horror, it rebounds and hits you full in the chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. The number you have picked is equivalent to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost as a result of this backfire (0 = 10). If you have survived this setback, make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly, you abandon any thought of opening this door and retrace your steps to the junction. Prarg leads you along the opposite passageway until you come to a corner. He turns the corner before you can warn him otherwise, and finds himself staring at the brutish features of a Drakkarim Death Knight Sergeant. The warrior's curses echo loudly along the narrow corridor as he draws his sword and comes striding towards your careless companion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you do not, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your slain enemies keel over backwards and splash into the mire, you spin around to see your companion grappling with a Ciquali in a desperate hand-to-hand combat. Prarg has lost his sword and the fight is going badly for him. The creature is by far the largest of the attacking pack and much of its muscular body is protected by armour, crudely fashioned from human bones. Anxious to help your companion, you rush forward and strike the creature a mighty blow at the base of its skull, opening a fearful wound. For a few moments the Ciquali continues to fight on as if unaffected by your blow, then its webbed hands spring open, letting Prarg, who is barely conscious, fall limply to the bottom of the boat. The beast touches a hand to its shattered skull and a look of astonishment fixes upon its ugly face when it sees its gore-stained palm. You raise your weapon to strike again, to finish the creature once and for all, but a second blow proves unnecessary. Its eyes roll backwards in their sockets, then stiffly the Ciquali falls sideways over the gunwale and sinks without trace beneath the slimy water.</p>
- <p>As one, the remaining Ciquali turn away from the boat and disappear as quickly as they had come, slipping back to the cold, dark safety of their hiding places beneath the surface. Silence returns, and for a long moment you stand alert, suspecting trickery, then slowly you relax; they have gone.</p>
- <p>Aided by your healing skills, Prarg makes a speedy recovery from the battering he sustained in combat with the Ciquali chieftain. The boat, too, has survived the attack and you are able to continue without further delay. As soon as you pass the obstruction, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along the channel beyond.</p>
- <p>You are hungry after your encounter. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clamber out of the cellar and set off after the Drakkarim with weapon in hand, determined to free your companion from their clutches, but as you hurry into the western avenue you see that they have already joined with the troops who are escorting the covered wagon. The wagon has halted and you count more than fifty Drakkarim jostling the helpless Prarg, bullying and cursing him vilely. More than one voice calls out in the Giak tongue&emdash;<quote>Let's kill the Lencian spy!</quote></p>
- <p>Fearful that they are going to beat him to death, you decide to charge headlong into the crowd in a desperate attempt to save him, despite the overwhelming odds against your success. But before you can act, a Drakkar officer on horseback appears and commands the troops to order. An uneasy silence descends on the group, then dutifully they step away from Prarg and form up in a column facing the officer and his mount. Prarg, who has been left lying on the ground, barely conscious, is bundled into the wagon. The officer raises his hand and the wagon trundles off along the avenue towards a distant square, with the troop of soldiers marching smartly in its wake.</p>
- <p>You follow and observe, taking in every aspect, every detail that might help you to free your companion. When you reach the square at the end of the avenue, you discover that is dominated by a tall tower. It is Magnaarn's tower. His flag, emblazoned with the emblem of a black eagle clutching two fiery swords, flutters lazily from its slender wooden spire. The wagon draws up in front of a building adjacent to the tower and Prarg is dragged unceremoniously inside. Judging by the bars which adorn its windows, and the armed guards at its entrance, you hazard a guess that this is the Shugkona Gaol.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Patiently you watch the square for several minutes while you try to formulate a plan. Then the assembled troops are galvanized into action when an order from their officer sends them off in pairs to search the town for other spies. Several Drakkarim come towards your location and you are forced to seek somewhere to hide. Looking around you can see only two dwellings that may offer some hope of a safe haven. The first is a warehouse; the second a stables.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you wish to hide in the warehouse, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you choose to hide in the stables, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Huddled together in a corner of the compound, away from the other prisoners, is a small group of men-at-arms. The fronts of their tattered blue coats bear the emblem of a crown set above the crest of Vadera identifying them to be of the same regiment&emdash;the Imperial Vadera Guard&emdash;one of Lencia's finest. Using your Magnakai skills to avoid detection, you make your way to the fence and try to attract their attention. One of their number, a Captain, sees you and is immediately suspicious. You signal to him to come closer and, reluctantly at first, he crawls towards the fence.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A captain of the Imperial Vadera Guard crawls reluctantly towards the fence in response to your signal.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="595"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="595"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>You're not Drakkarim or Lencian. Who are you? What do you want?</quote> he hisses, through cracked lips that are blue with hunger and cold. <quote>Is this another Drakkar trick devised to torment us?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>This is no trick,</quote> you whisper in reply, trying hard to reassure him, <quote>I'm an ally in the service of your King. I want to help you and your men to escape.</quote></p>
- <p>He holds you with his steely-grey eyes and slowly shakes his head.</p>
- <p><quote>It's too late to help us,</quote> he says, sadly. <quote>We're too weak to resist. Some have tried and they've all died in the jaws of the dogs. No, you save yourself, stranger. Forget us.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But if you stay here you'll starve to death,</quote> you retort. <quote>Surely it's better to die fighting than waste away. The garrison here is small, barely forty in number. I could cause a diversion and draw their dogs away. Your men may be weakened but still they outnumber the enemy five times over. For Ishir's sake, man, have you lost the will to live?</quote></p>
- <p>The Lencian Captain glances over his shoulder at his starving comrades and, when he turns to face you once more, you see a faint glimmer of hope in his eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>All of these men have been more than a week without food or shelter. Many have died, many are near to death. I fear they are too weak to fight an enemy who has food in his belly and a sword in his hand. Perhaps&ellips; if we had weapons&ellips;</quote></p>
- <p><quote>If you do as I say, you'll have weapons enough to pluck this town from under their very noses,</quote> you reply, earnestly.</p>
- <p>The Lencian narrows his eyes, and for a moment, the trace of a smile softens his gaunt features.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well, stranger. Tell me your plan.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect61"><link-text>Turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Thanks to your Kai skills, the two Tukodak guards do not see you until it is too late. From the base of the stone ramp you launch a lightning attack which dispatches them both before they can attempt to raise the alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and a crackling blast of electrical energy leaps from your fingers. The fiery bolt hits the advancing creature, stunning it momentarily, but it soon recovers and presses home its attack with renewed determination.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down upon the unsuspecting lancer, but the shock of impact does not unseat him and desperately he struggles to fend you off. He wounds your forearm with his sabre before you succeed in knocking him out of the saddle: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You seize control of the startled horse and take off across the square, unholstering the lance as you gallop headlong towards the mass of Drakkarim soldiers who stand between you and the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the hamlet and hurry along its solitary road. Flanking you are two rows of low cottages, their thick-thatched roofs still intact despite the fiery carnage that has swept so near. Off to the right you see a barn-like building standing with its door ajar. A brazier of coals, an anvil and a scattering of iron strips prove it to have once been a busy smithy. But now, like the surrounding buildings, it is seemingly deserted.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A Lencian Crusader rushes out into the road brandishing a heavy steel mace in his left hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="604"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="604"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You are passing the open door when suddenly you hear a man's voice. He has a strong Lencian accent and he is cursing you, thinking you to be a turncoat Stornland mercenary. As you turn to face the smithy door, a Lencian Crusader comes rushing out into the road, brandishing a heavy steel mace in his left hand. You yell at him that you are loyal to King Sarnac, but he ignores your plea and swings his weapon wildly at your head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lencian Crusader</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Throughout this combat you are attempting to strike a blow that will render the knight unconscious. Fight this combat using the normal combat procedure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you manage to reduce the knight's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> to zero, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you struggle to kill the last Gorodon, suddenly you catch sight of Prarg attacking the creature from the rear. Having witnessed your desperate plight, he has brought the boat back to shore and grounded it nearby. Now, with his help, swiftly you seal the doom of this last swamp-creature.</p>
- <p>Shaken by your hard-won battle, Prarg helps you back to the boat and places you aboard.</p>
- <p><quote>That was a mite too close for comfort,</quote> he says, as he frees the oars and sets them in place.</p>
- <p><quote>You can count yourself lucky to have escaped with your life. The first time I navigated these channels I lost three good men in a Gorodon attack. Those beasts are the bane of this accursed place&ellips; yet, t'is true to say, there are other creatures here that are far deadlier.</quote></p>
- <p>Soon you reach the west bank where, once safely ashore, you encamp on a strip of frozen loam that overlooks a bleak expanse of marsh. Night has fallen and so, too, has the temperature. From the shelter of your upturned boat you cast your experienced eye across the darkening skies and see banks of cloud, heavy with snow, scudding the distant horizon. They are an unwelcome sight, the precursors to a winter storm.</p>
- <p>Prarg volunteers to continue the first watch but, mindful that his need for rest is greater than yours, you insist that he gets some sleep. For four hours you sit and scan the bleak horizon, your mind filled with unanswered questions about the mission and the dangers you have yet to face. While you ponder what awaits you in the near future, you remain watchful and alert, your encounter on the east bank still vivid in your mind. Fortunately, the increasing cold dissuades the Hellswamp's inhabitants from leaving their lairs this night and your watch passes without further incident.</p>
- <p>Then the time comes for you to awaken Prarg. With a noticeable lack of enthusiasm he takes his turn while you settle yourself down to catch a few hours of much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect156-1-foot" idref="sect156-1">
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 15 only if it is currently above that level.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>For fifteen days you tunnel through a solid wall of earth and broken rock, using your weapons and bare hands, sustained all the while by little more than your indefatigable spirit and will to survive. You are near to giving up when, mid-way through the sixteenth day of your internment, you suddenly break through into a passageway that is free of debris. Weak but alive, you drag yourself into this empty tunnel and collapse on the damp, fungi-covered floor.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Reduce your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 15.<a id="sect156-1" idref="sect156-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Also, erase any Meals you may have been carrying in your Backpack, and erase any potions of Laumspur and/or Alether.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">To continue, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain Prarg recovers consciousness and slowly his strength returns until he is able, with your help, to regain his feet. He is cold and soaking wet, but you sense that he is no longer in a state of shock. He will survive.</p>
- <p>Carefully you both retreat from the hole and make a wide detour around this section. An hour later you reach the far side of the lake and enter the trees beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You increase your stroke until you are rowing as fast as you can, then you hear the leader shout a command and suddenly the rain of arrows ceases. You pray that you are either out of range, or the enemy are out of arrows, but when you glance at the shore you see that the leader has you fixed in his sights. The only reason he has ordered his troops to stop firing is because he wants you all to himself.</p>
- <p>The fat Drakkar lets loose his bowstring and his steel-tipped shaft comes whistling towards your head with chilling accuracy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you possess Kai-alchemy but have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn instead to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are moving across a stretch of beach which is overlooked by a small grassy hill when suddenly a harsh command splits the night air:</p>
- <p><quote>Halt where you are. Do not move!</quote></p>
- <p>Instantly you flatten yourself among the rocks and moments later you hear Prarg whispering, <quote>They're Lencians. They must be lookouts from the island garrison.</quote></p>
- <p>Together you watch with bated breath as two inquisitive soldiers appear, silhouetted on the top of the hill. Brandishing their spears, they curse your sudden disappearance and come hurrying down a steep track towards the beach.</p>
- <p><quote>Curse them,</quote> hisses Prarg, <quote>If they find us, the whole garrison will get to hear of our mission even before it has properly begun.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you possess Assimilance <em>and</em> you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you do not possess this Discipline, or you have yet to achieve this rank, <link-text>turn instead to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In order to delay the other Drakkarim, you bundle the bodies of the Death Knights down the stairs, but one soldier clambers across them and attempts to skewer you upon the tip of his spear. You sidestep his thrust and fell him with a lightning blow to the head, but not before his weapon gashes your side: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you cross to a window at the far side of the tower. Outside, directly below, you see a Drakkar lancer sitting astride a warhorse. His lance is sheathed in a tube-like scabbard fixed to the rear of his saddle and in his hand he holds aloft a heavy cavalry sabre. He is cheering those who are entering the tower and he is completely unaware that you are only a few yards away.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you climb onto the window ledge, raise your weapon, then leap onto the unwary lancer below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If your total score is now 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kneel beside Prarg and check that he is still breathing. He is fortunate that the bolt struck him a glancing blow; had it hit him squarely it would have killed him outright. Then you hear a movement over on the far side of the chamber, and when you look up, you see Warlord Magnaarn emerging from behind one of the many hanging black drapes. An aura of evil surrounds his body like a shimmering grey cocoon, and his features no longer appear as they did when first you encountered him in the subterranean labyrinths of the Temple of Antah. Now his body is twisted and mummy-like, and feverish eyes burn from black sockets within a bald skull of a face. You sense that he is wholly possessed by the object he holds clenched in his shrunken hand&emdash;the Nyras Sceptre.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The dread sceptre hums with the power of the Doomstone that is set upon its platinum shaft. Magnaarn utters an evil laugh and points the sceptre at you, but curiously you feel no weakness or leeching of strength, as occurred at Antah. The Warlord's sick eyes widen with surprise and you sense that he is fearful. He threatens you with death, but his voice is wavering. He is unsure of his power. Then you sense another presence, a magical presence. A wispy shape emerges from behind another curtain, summoned forth by Magnaarn, and at once you recognize it to be the formless life-force of a Nadziranim sorcerer. You hear Magnaarn issue a psychic command, ordering the creature to slay you, and immediately it responds. Swiftly it moves across the chamber, changing shape as it draws closer. It is no more than ten feet distant when it solidifies into a form which is truly horrifying to behold.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike your killing blow and send the creature tumbling off the walkway into the rushing black waters of the subterranean river. It surfaces for a brief moment, its arms flailing wildly, then it disappears forever beneath the swirling foam.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Confident in your victory, you sheathe your weapon and take hold of the heavy winch chain. You pull it to raise the grill a few feet off the walkway, just high enough for you to duck under the rusty bars, then you continue along the tunnel at a brisk pace: After a few hundred yards, the tunnel turns to the south. At this point you discover a flight of slimy steps that ascend from the walkway towards a darkened arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to ascend the steps to the arch, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you decide to ignore the steps and continue along the tunnel, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you return to the boat and attempt to awaken your companion. But he does not respond at once, and you are forced to shake him vigorously by the shoulders until finally he stirs to consciousness.</p>
- <p><quote>Wha&ellips; what's wrong!</quote> he mumbles, as he struggles to free himself from your firm grip.</p>
- <p><quote>Wake up Captain,</quote> you retort, <quote>there's trouble coming our way.</quote></p>
- <p>The word <quote>trouble</quote> galvanizes Prarg into action. He throws off his blankets, unsheathes his sword, and follows as you lead the way up the river bank. When you reach the crest, you see a dozen or more of the leathery black war-dogs come slinking out of the trees. Your senses are drawn to one of the red-eyed creatures, who instinctively you recognize as the leader of this pack, and suddenly you recall from past experience that Akataz are susceptible to psychic attacks. Using your Magnakai abilities, you focus on this leading hound and prepare to launch a burst of psychic energy directly at its mind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Kai-surge, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard crashes to the bottom of the trench, but before he can raise the alarm, you and Prarg are in the dugout beside him with your weapons drawn ready to strike.</p>
- <p>Your attack is swift and deadly. In less than five seconds, you and your companion dispatch all four of the Drakkarim trench-troopers who occupy this position, overcoming them before they can even unsheathe their swords.</p>
- <p>Keen to maintain your advantage of surprise, you quickly leave the trench and rush across the remaining strip of open ground which separates you from the town's outlying dwellings. Prarg points ahead, to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels, and immediately you follow as he rushes towards its shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite its fatigue, the horse clears the trench and carries you safely beyond range of the Drakkarim archers. For half a mile you skirt along the edge of the Tozaz forest, then, the moment the enemy are lost to sight, you rejoin the road and make your escape northwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you step away from the dead guards, you hear shouts of alarm outside the building: the roof of the stables has just erupted into a sheet of flame. The garrison is thrown into a state of near-panic as they try to fight the fire and contain the horses which are stampeding through the streets.</p>
- <p>You run the length of the armoury and hurriedly lift the massive drawbar which holds the main doors closed. Outside, you see the perimeter guards are abandoning their posts in order to fight the fire now raging through the stables. The Lencians are on their feet. They are grouped by the entrance to the compound and, as the last of the guards leaves, they rush forward and barge open the gates. Led by the Captain, they come streaming across the flagstoned square towards the armoury, sweeping aside any Drakkarim foolish enough to try to turn this vengeful tide. With a cheer they pour into the armoury and equip themselves with weapons from its many racks of spears and swords.</p>
- <p><quote>Let's take this town!</quote> shouts the Captain, and amid stirring battle-cries of <quote>Lencia</quote> and <quote>For the House of Sarnac</quote>, the starving Lencians set off to obey his command.</p>
- <p>You try to reach the Captain, whose name you learn is Schera, but before you reach him you are swept out into the street and carried along by this crowd of battle-hungry soldiers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39"><link-text>Turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You breathe the words of the Brotherhood spell <quote>Halt Missile</quote> and, in an instant, the first of the bolts freezes in mid-air. This swift action saves Prarg from being hit, but it does not stop the second missile from striking home. Red-hot pain flares up your arm as the iron-tipped bolt gouges a deep furrow of flesh from the back of your wrist: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The lookouts fumble with their crossbows, desperate to fire again, but before they can reload you have disappeared along the beach. Shortly you reach a small secluded cove where Prarg discovers a rusty anchor. It is a landmark, left on purpose by agents of King Sarnac to point the way to the cave where they have left your boat and provisions. You find the cave and together you haul the boat down the beach and raise its coal-black sail before pushing it out into the icy waters of the Tentarias.</p>
- <p>Once aboard, you trim the sail whilst Prarg takes charge of the rudder. There is a good wind and within minutes your tiny craft is bobbing towards the far western channel of the Hellswamp, twenty miles distant. You ask Prarg if this dark estuary has a name, and he replies, <quote>Yes. The Drakkarim call it <quote>Dakushna's Channel</quote> after the Darklord who once commanded the city-fortress of Kagorst. They say it is a fitting dedication, for the waterway is as deadly and as treacherous as the creature after whom it is named.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hold the bird with a mental command and use your skill to converse with it. Its response is rudimentary, but you are able to understand that many warriors, dressed in metal and riding horses, are approaching the river from the north.</p>
- <p>You tell Captain Schera and Baron Maquin of what you have gleaned from the bird, and the Baron says, <quote>It sounds to me that a troop of Drakkarim cavalry are coming this way.</quote></p>
- <p>The Captain agrees, and both commanders pass the word to their men to stay hidden and keep completely silent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The spear-wielding guard notices the Signet Ring and immediately his suspicions melt away. The ring must denote a very high rank or office within Magnaarn's army for the Tukodaks both stand rigidly to attention and bow their heads reverently. You approach the open doors and hastily they step aside to allow you and Prarg entry to the temple. Once safely inside, you cause your features to revert to normal before you set off on your urgent hunt for the Doomstone of Darke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly draw an Arrow and take aim through a hole in the portcullis, but the Tukodaks cower behind Prarg, using him as a human shield. Again the, cruel voice booms out: <quote>Put down your bow, Lone Wolf, or I'll have my guards kill your companion.</quote></p>
- <p>At once your anger subsides. You sense that this is no idle threat and, reluctantly, you obey the command.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron-tipped bolts scream towards you but your swift reflexes are more than a match for these deadly missiles. You open your hand and thrust your palm into Prarg's back, pushing him forward and saving him from the first bolt; then you sidestep to avoid being hit by the second. The lookouts fumble with their crossbows, desperate to fire again, but before they can reload you have disappeared along the beach.</p>
- <p>Shortly you reach a small secluded cove where Captain Prarg discovers a rusty anchor. it is a landmark, left on purpose by agents of King Sarnac to point the way to the cave where they have left your boat and provisions. You find the cave and together you haul the boat down the beach and raise its coal-black sail before pushing it out into the icy waters of the Tentarias.</p>
- <p>Once aboard, you trim the sail whilst Prarg takes charge of the rudder. There is a good wind and within minutes your tiny craft is bobbing towards the far western channel of the Hellswamp, twenty miles distant. You ask Prarg if this dark estuary has a name, and he replies, <quote>Yes. the Drakkarim call it <quote>Dakushna's Channel</quote> after the Darklord who once commanded the city-fortress of Kagorst. They say it is a fitting dedication, for the waterway is as deadly and as treacherous as the creature after whom it is named.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down upon the unsuspecting lancer and send him tumbling from the saddle. The impact leaves him stunned, but before he can recover, you seize control of his horse and take off across the square. With your left hand you unholster the lance and bring it to bear as you gallop headlong towards the backs of the Drakkarim soldiers who are standing between you and the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aided by your Kai skills, you uncover some tracks frozen beneath the snow. They were made by horses and wagons and are a little over a week old. There are far more than you expected to find here, and you can tell at once that they were not all made by Magnaarn's entourage. Before he left this site and headed west, he was joined by several hundred reinforcements.</p>
- <p>During your search you also discover some scraps of food which you eat immediately: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Having satisfied your curiosity, and your rumbling stomach, you decide to leave the campsite and follow the tracks westward.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you possess Animal Mastery, <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (or higher), <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature is badly wounded but its powerful natural psychic skills block out the pain, enabling it to press home its attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you climb the stairs, spurred on by the wintery chill which grows steadily colder as you ascend. You count one hundred and fifty steps before you arrive at a chamber which is heaped with rubble. Its only door is blocked by debris and huge slabs of marble, making an immediate exit impossible. But it is not the door which commands your attention; it is a narrow circular shaft which is set into the middle of the ceiling. It is the source of the cold, wintery draft.</p>
- <p>Expectantly, you step closer and investigate this shaft. For the most part it is dark, but you can see glimmers of grey daylight high above, and you can hear the whistling of the wind. But you can also hear another sound, one that is quite unexpected. It is a buzzing, insectile noise. You focus upon the darkness and suddenly you see that the noises come from nests of winged insects which are fixed to the inside of the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the few remaining pack survivors slink away into the forest, you help Prarg, who has sustained several deep wounds to his arms and legs, to reach the boat. Repeatedly he apologizes for having fallen asleep while on guard but you refuse to let him take all of the blame.</p>
- <p>Using your mate Kai skills you tend to Prarg's injuries and ensure that they heal without infection. He recovers quickly, but the use of your Curing skills leaves you feeling weak and tired: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the evil wizard cries out in pained surprise and throws his claw-tipped hands into the air. A sparkling bolt, which was destined to seal your doom, arcs from his staff and blows a man-sized hole in the wall of the fortress. As the resultant smoke and dust slowly clears, you see Captain Prarg standing over the body of the slain wizard with a bloodied sword held in his hand. With a cry of victory, he leaps over the crumpled corpse and comes rushing down the steps to help free you from the tangle of bodies.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Captain Prarg stands over the body of the slain wizard with bloodied sword in hand.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Well met, Sire,</quote> he says excitedly. <quote>I feared you were dead and buried at the Temple of Antah.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I, too, thought you dead, Prarg,</quote> you reply, thankful to see him still alive. <quote>Yet it seems that fate has decreed otherwise.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I was lucky,</quote> he says, <quote>I escaped from Magnaarn. But come, Sire. There's no time for tales now. We must away from here. Follow me, I know where the Warlord is hiding.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dark alleyway leads to a square where, an age ago, the grand mansions of Lencian noblemen encircled a shrine dedicated to the Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon. But now this square, in common with the rest of the town, bears little resemblance to, or trace of, its Lencian origins. When the Drakkarim first captured Ferndour, as it was then called, all the houses and public buildings which had stood for centuries were demolished. In their place were erected ungainly dormitories and ugly communal dwellings made entirely of timber culled from the surrounding forest. The town's once-picturesque plazas and narrow, winding streets were replaced with coldly functional military avenues for the marching Drakkarim hordes.</p>
- <p>From the shadows of a doorway, you and Prarg observe a small covered wagon and a troop of weary Drakkarim soldiers entering the square from the north. This small procession swings right and approaches an avenue which exits the square, leading off to the west towards the centre of the town. Magnaarn's headquarters are located in the middle of Shugkona and, with night fast approaching, Prarg suggests you follow the troop using the gathering darkness for cover. You are about to agree with him when suddenly the door of a nearby hovel swings open, and out into the alley step three burly, drunken Drakkarim.</p>
- <p>Instinctively you both leap for cover to avoid being seen. Prarg drops down behind a stack of empty ale casks, whilst you dive behind a mound of rotten timbers. The moment you hit the ground you feel it sag beneath your weight, then, in a moment of terror, the ground collapses and you fall headlong into darkness. You have crashed through the rot-infested timbers of a trapdoor into a damp and dingy cellar.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect237">If your total score is now 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You clear the gap with one bound, and even manage to stay on your feet when you land on the far side of the fissure. Hungry for victory and vengeance, you tear aside the curtain through which Magnaarn disappeared and discover a short flight of steps which emerge at a turret at the very top of the Palace Tower, the highest point in the city of Darke.</p>
- <p>Here you find Magnaarn, cowering with his crooked back pressed hard against the frost-covered wall. You sense that he has very nearly succumbed to the evil power of the Doomstone; he is treading a fine line between life and undeath. Yet, even though he is but a whisker away from eternal damnation, he musters enough spite to challenge you to a fight to the death.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well, Drakkar,</quote> you reply. <quote>Let battle commence.</quote></p>
- <combat><enemy>Warlord Magnaarn (with Nyras Sceptre)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With lightning speed you draw and fire two Arrows, sending the shafts whistling deep into the scaly bellies of the two swamp creatures. Their effect is swift and deadly; the Ciquali screech in unison and throw their arms wide as they are hurled backwards into the mire. You string another Arrow and glance over your shoulder at your companion who, having lost his sword, is now grappling with a Ciquali in a desperate hand-to-hand combat.</p>
- <p>The fight is going badly for Prarg. The creature is by far the largest of the pack and much of its muscular body is protected by armour, crudely fashioned from human bones. Anxious to help your companion, you raise your Bow and take aim, but the two are entwined and you dare not fire for fear of hitting the Captain. Then a sudden swipe of the creature's horny fist knocks Prarg to his knees, allowing you a moment's unobstructed view of his adversary.</p>
- <p>(Remember to erase three Arrows from your quiver.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you wish to fire at the creature's head, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you choose to fire at the sac which surrounds the creature's throat, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you decide to fire at the creature's upper chest, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a terrible moment your body is racked with pain. It fills your mind with a scarlet fog and your vision swims in and out of focus. The reins slip from your hands and you fall from the horse to crash heavily upon the snow-covered road. You strike your head and lose consciousness; you never awaken. The guards close in and put a swift end to both you and your companion, Captain Prarg.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your quest ends here at Shugkona.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry along this wind-swept passageway until you come to a corner. Prarg turns the corner before you can warn him otherwise, and he finds himself staring at the brutish features of a Drakkarim Death Knight Sergeant. The warrior's curses echo along the corridor as he draws his sword and comes striding towards your careless companion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you do not, or your choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Arrow flies true, but at the very last moment before impact, the Drakkar spins around to face the assembled soldiers, and your shaft shatters harmlessly upon the blade of his axe. For a few seconds he is stunned by the nearness of your attack, then suddenly he points to the grain tower and begins to scream like a madman:</p>
- <p><quote>Up there! At the window! The arrow was fired from up there!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On reaching the main street, you see Captain Schera beckoning to you from the doorway of a ruined inn.</p>
- <p><quote>Over here,</quote> he calls, <quote>I think I've found something.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What is it?</quote> you say, on entering the fire-ravaged ruins.</p>
- <p><quote>Come and take a look for yourself,</quote> he replies, and takes you to flight of stone steps which lead down into a cold, dark cellar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chieftain bellows its death-cry and keels over backwards to hit the water with a mighty splash. Now leaderless, the remaining Ciquali turn away from the boat and disappear as quickly as they had come, slipping back to the cold, dark safety of their hiding places beneath the surface. Silence returns, and for a long moment you stand alert, suspecting trickery, then slowly you relax; they have gone.</p>
- <p>Aided by your healing skills, Prarg makes a speedy recovery from the battering he sustained in combat with the Ciquali chieftain. The boat, too, has survived the attack and you are able to continue without further delay. As soon as you pass the obstruction, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along the channel beyond.</p>
- <p>You are hungry after your encounter. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you tend to your companion's wound, using your Magnakai Curing skills to neutralize the venom before it does its fatal work. Your swift action saves him but it drains you of energy: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">To continue, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move deeper into the forest, maintaining a steady pace. Here, in this part of the Tozaz, the snowfall underfoot is light because of the canopy of thick branches overhead, and you make good progress. You have been walking for an hour when a shivery rustle brings you abruptly to a halt. You look up and a miniature snowslide falls from a branch overhead, covering your face and shoulders with a deluge of powdery snow. Prarg laughs as he watches you spluttering, and as you wipe your eyes, you glimpse a grey-winged bird fluttering away to the west.</p>
- <p><quote>By the Gods, I'm hungry,</quote> exclaims Prarg, leaning weakly against a tree trunk. <quote>What I'd give for a side of beef and a plate of boiled beets.</quote></p>
- <p>The Captain has not eaten since before you reached Shugkona and you can see that after the rigours of his capture and escape, he is sorely in need of food. Unless he eats soon he will be unable to go much further.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you possess a Meal, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake at first light and make a search of all the cabins, but they have either been despoiled by Giaks or stripped bare and you discover nothing of practical use. However, you do uncover enough scraps of food, preserved by the cold, to make quite a decent breakfast: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>After your meal, you gather together your equipment and set off along the river bank, heading west. The surrounding landscape is a harsh black and white desolation, devoid of all colour. The bleakness is deepened by the constant moaning wind and the occasional cawing of distant carrion crows. Five miles downstream you happen upon a hut at the edge of the river. You are expecting it to be empty, like the others at the ferry stage, so it comes as a welcome surprise to find it contains a rowboat and a pair of oars, both in good condition. Heartened by your discovery, you launch the boat into the water and begin your voyage towards Darke.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prarg makes a wide detour to the west in order to avoid the risk of walking straight into the arms of your enemies. The detour takes you across a steep and rugged part of the forest previously unexplored by your guide, and progress here is slowed dramatically. You have covered less than six miles when the failing light, and the increasing sightings of Drakkarim patrols, forces you to halt and make camp for the night.</p>
- <p>From the safety of a treetop, fifty feet above the forest floor, you rope yourself to the trunk before settling down to sleep. You are hungry and, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your psychic strength to create, in the depths of your mind, three radiant pulses of pure energy. As you watch the advancing Gorodon, rapidly these glowing cores increase in size and power until they resemble a cluster of fiery meteors. The Gorodons increase their speed and come pounding through the shallows, their eyes blazing and their horns lowered in eager readiness to impale you on their razor-sharp tips. They are almost upon you when, with a blink of your eyes, you hurl your psychic pulses, directly into their brains. The effect is instantaneous and devastating. It is as if all three have been felled simultaneously by a massive hammer blow to the skull.</p>
- <p>The Gorodons' forelegs buckle and they are brought down head first into the muddy shallows. Their horns sink deeply into the silt whilst their heavy torsos are thrown forwards by the momentum of their charge. For a few seconds they cartwheel end-over-end, then, with a chilling abruptness, they cease moving and settle into the mud. Your psychic attack was devastating but it did not kill them outright; it was the massive strain placed upon their necks when they fell that ultimately sealed their doom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284"><link-text>Turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the corpse and run down the corridor with Prarg close on your heels. Soon you reach a junction where you are forced to choose a direction, left or right. You call upon your Kai skills and immediately you sense a strong presence of evil lurking at the end of the right-hand passage. You focus on the source of this evil and determine that it is the Doomstone. You tell Prarg and together you advance along the passage until you reach a closed door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you lies a vast frozen lake, more than a mile wide at the point at which you now stand. An icy wind whips across its glistening surface, stirring freshly fallen snow into eddies which whirl and dance like spinning tops. Silently you stare across the lake at the distant tree line and your mind is filled with doubt. The Temple of Antah lies beyond, of that you are sure, and the quickest way to reach it would be to traverse the lake, but there is no cover and no way of knowing if the ice is thick enough to support you all the way across. Yet, to go around the lake would delay you by hours, giving your pursuers ample time to catch up and attack.</p>
- <p>At length you decide to take your chances and cross the lake. At first the going is smooth and you make easy progress, but as you near the centre, suddenly you sense that something is wrong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship <em>and</em> have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You begin the descent and soon discover that the rough chasm wall makes for an ideal climbing surface. With confidence you descend towards the river, but you are almost caught unawares when you reach a section of the chasm wall which is treacherous in the extreme. It is smooth, dry and crumbly, making it suddenly impossible for you to find safe purchase for your toes and fingers.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess a Rope, add 1. If your present Kai rank is Grand Guardian or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect194-1-foot" idref="sect194-1">
- <p>This section is unreachable and superfluous since it is equivalent to <a idref="sect19">Section 19</a> but less complete.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the deadly shafts scream towards you and Prarg, you open your hand and thrust your palm into his back, pushing him aside. This swift action saves him from the first bolt, but it robs you of time in which to react to the second. It strikes and red-hot pain flares up your leg as the iron-tipped bolt gouges a deep furrow of flesh from the back of your calf: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<a id="sect194-1" idref="sect194-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step over the body of the fallen lancer and pull yourself into the saddle of his warhorse. Seizing the reins you spur the horse forward and it takes off across the square at a gallop. Then you unholster the lance and bring it to bear as you race headlong towards the backs of the Drakkarim soldiers who are standing between you and the platform.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your keen senses detect an unpleasant odour wafting towards you on the damp air. It is the scent of a hostile animal. It is not lurking in this chamber but it is somewhere close by.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you head towards an archway in the far wall, taking great care not to fall as you traverse the slippery mounds of rubble which litter the floor of this dank and unwholesome chamber. A short tunnel awaits you beyond the arch. It ends at a junction where a wider passageway crosses from west to east.</p>
- <p>The animal odour is stronger here; it is wafting from out of the west tunnel. Forewarned, you shun this tunnel and set off to the east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26"><link-text>Turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In a corner of the cellar you see two booted and bloodstained feet protruding from beneath a mass of collapsed flooring. You move closer and discover they belong to a Lencian soldier who is badly wounded and barely conscious. Schera helps you to clear away the charred timbers that are pinning him to the ground and, using your Kai healing skills, you attend to the man's wounds. After a few minutes he recovers consciousness just long enough to tell you his name&emdash;Hul Sendal.</p>
- <p>You both carry the man back to the river and place him carefully into your boat. The Captain's men have managed to clear a passage wide enough for the flotilla to pass through in single file, and as you continue your journey down-river, you spend some time nursing the injured soldier back to consciousness. He tells you of the battle that destroyed his regiment, of how Magnaarn used his sceptre to set the town ablaze, and of how he has survived the last six days sustained by nothing more than a few handfuls of snow. His account of the battle is chilling and it leaves you with a gnawing fear that maybe it is already too late to prevent Warlord Magnaarn from regaining control of Darke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208"><link-text>Turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and rush forward to strike the soldier down, determined to finish him quickly before he can raise the alarm.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Sergeant</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the speed of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss you may sustain in the first round of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrows miss you by an arm's length, but as you hit the ground you gash the palms of your hands on the trunk of a fallen tree: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From out of the shadows of the secret passage steps Warlord Magnaarn. He is a huge man&emdash;not much over six feet tall but massively built. His body is sheathed in finely crafted armour that fits his frame like a glove, and his features are coarse and foreboding, accentuated by a fresh battle scar which runs diagonally from the top his red-haired scalp to a point near the lobe of his left ear.</p>
- <p>Arrogantly he approaches the portcullis and stares unblinkingly into your eyes. For a moment you consider attacking him, but your senses detect that he is surrounded by a field of energy so strong that already you feel it leeching your psychic powers. He reaches to a pocket inside his cloak and takes out a large black gemstone, which he holds level with his sneering face. Scarlet veins glow within the depths of this stone, swirling and undulating as if they are alive. Waves of dizziness force you to your knees as the evil power of the Doomstone of Darke washes over you, bleeding you of the strength and will to resist.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The massively build Warlord Magnaarn steps out of the shadows and stares arrogantly into your eyes.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="633"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="633"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>I've been waiting for you, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Magnaarn, with a condescending tone. <quote>I've known your plan ever since my spies told me of your arrival at Vadera. After all, there could be but one reason why the great Grand Master of the Kai would come to Lencia at this time. Yet, as you can see, Grand Master, you are already too late to stop me.</quote></p>
- <p>Magnaarn turns to his Tukodak guards and orders them to take Prarg away. You try to protest but you cannot find strength enough to voice the words. The warlord smiles at your weakness.</p>
- <p><quote>Know you this, Grand Master. Now that I possess the stone of power, nothing can stand in my way. You were the only threat to my victory, but now you're a threat no longer.</quote></p>
- <p>With this he steps away from the portcullis and turns to follow his guards as they drag Prarg into the secret passage.</p>
- <p><quote>Farewell,</quote> he says, sardonically, before disappearing into the portal, <quote>and remember my first words to you: welcome to your tomb.</quote></p>
- <p>With these chilling words echoing in your mind, you watch as he disappears into the passage and the wall closes behind him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Arrow strikes with deadly accuracy. The Drakkar officer drops the axe and clutches the shaft which has suddenly buried itself in his throat. He tries to scream, but the arrow has destroyed his larynx and slowly he topples from the platform without uttering a sound. For a few moments the assembled Drakkarim are transfixed by his death, then a solitary voice shrieks in alarm: 'Up there! The arrow came from up there!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect336"><link-text>Turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your super-keen senses alert you to something on the brow of a hill which overlooks this stretch of beach. You detect the faint glint of moonlight on steel and at once you whisper a warning to Prarg. Instantly he takes cover among the rocks and together you watch with bated breath as two inquisitive Lencian lookouts leave their post and come down to the sea's edge. They scan the beach then, shaking their heads, they turn and retrace their steps, pausing to skewer a few clumps of seaweed with their spears as they trek back to their post.</p>
- <p>As the lookouts climb the hill, you and Prarg hurry away whilst they have their backs turned.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273"><link-text>Turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the caustic stench of your smouldering cloak filling your nostrils, you kneel before the portal and set to work in an attempt to pick its ancient lock. The mechanism is quite basic and it takes you less than a minute to pick it successfully.</p>
- <p>However, before you escape from this chamber, the deluge of acid takes its toll upon your Backpack and equipment. Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> those items which you have recorded as the first and fourth on your list of Backpack Items. Also, erase either one Special Item of your choice, or (if you possess one) your Bow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A bold idea springs to mind. Using your Kai Discipline, you cause your facial features to take on the harsh countenance of a Drakkar warrior. At first Prarg is alarmed by your dramatic change and he steps back aghast, but you quickly reassure him that the effect is temporary; it is part of your plan to gain entry to the temple.</p>
- <p>Prarg will act as your prisoner while you pretend to be a Drakkar guard, summoned from Shugkona by Warlord Magnaarn himself. Prarg agrees to the plan and. he places his hands behind his back, as if they are tied, and you escort him towards the temple doors. As you approach the two guards you call out to them, speaking in Giak, saying that Warlord Magnaarn has sent for this prisoner. Visibly they hesitate. They have no knowledge of their master's request and are suspicious. As you ascend the ramp, one of the guards levels his spear and points it threateningly at your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you possess a Signet Ring, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your acute hearing detects the faint sound of stone grating on stone. Then you notice that loopholes are opening at chest height along both walls of the passageway, revealing the sticky sharpened tips of venom-coated spears.</p>
- <p><quote>Get down!</quote> you shout, and throw yourself flat on to the damp stone floor. Moments later, a volley of the deadly spears comes hurtling from out of the walls to smash and splinter in the passageway. Your timely warning saves you and Prarg from certain death, yet, unluckily, one of the speartips ricochets and gouges Prarg's shoulder.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186"><link-text>Turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard crashes to the bottom of the trench, screaming&emdash;<foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Gaz rekenarim! Gaz rekenarim!</quote></foreign></p>
- <p>Instantly the other Drakkarim react to his warning. They leap to their feet and thrust their spears upwards as you come leaping over the parapet. One spear tip gouges your leg, another cuts deeply into your shoulder, but neither wounds are fatal: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p><quote>Sarnac and Lencia!</quote> cries Prarg, as side-by-side you land in the trench and engage these four Drakkarim warriors in a fierce close combat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Trench-troopers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">29</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point the index finger of your right hand at the circular keyhole. A tingling sensation engulfs your entire arm, then a shudder runs from your shoulder to your fingertip, culminating in a burst of blue-white energy which arcs towards the lock.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 20 or higher, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>West of Odnenga, the river meanders very little as it crosses the snow-swept plain of Southern Nyras. It is a deserted landscape, yet Captain Schera cautions his men to remain watchful, doubly so whenever the boats pass an occasional copse of fir or stunted pine. Late in the afternoon, as the light is beginning to fade, you come to a forested part of the river where the banks are steeply undercut. Trees are growing at the very edge of the overhanging banks and their roots are clearly visible, hanging down like clusters of vines into the icy waters of the Shug. You are watching the left bank when suddenly your Pathsmanship senses alert you to the threat of ambush. You warn the Captain and he signals to the following boats to put ashore at once.</p>
- <p>Having sensed the threat, you volunteer to go forward and scout the woods to find out who, or what, is there. Schera agrees, and he calls for three of his men, all trained army scouts, to accompany you. He and the rest of his command will remain here with the boats and wait for you to return.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment your horse slams into the sentries, you strike out and fell one of them with a crushing blow to the side of his head. But, as you strike, the remaining two guards catch you with their spears and you receive deep wounds to your leg and chest: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is now 15 or lower, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If it is 16 or higher, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have almost overcome this treacherous section of the chasm wall when a sudden slip ends in disaster. You are stretching to reach an outcrop of rock with your left hand when the powdery wall gives way beneath the toe of your left boot. You try to recover but it is too late. You slip sideways and topple head-first into the chasm where you land amongst the boulders and debris embedded into the river bank. Death is instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the deepest reaches of the Temple of Antah.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush towards your stricken companion, unshouldering your Backpack as you run. Once you are as close to the hole as you dare go, you tear open the pack and take out your coiled rope. Prarg is foundering in the icy water; he can barely keep his head above the surface. Hurriedly you hurl one end of the rope towards him and he makes a desperate grab for it with numbed fingers. Miraculously he grips it first time and manages to hold on tight as you haul him out of the freezing water.</p>
- <p>His skin is violet and his entire body is shaking uncontrollably. Using your healing skills, you transmit some of your body warmth through your hands to his chest and face and, within a few minutes, he comes out of his state of shock and his body returns to its normal temperature. Your prompt action has saved his life, but it has also drained you of 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swallow hard and within a few seconds you feel your strength returning. You shake your head and as your vision clears you approach the circular door and take a closer look at its strange octagonal lock. It comprises a keyhole and a series of numbers, although one of the numbers is clearly missing. Experience tells you that this a dual combination lock, one that can be opened either by key or by tapping in the correct number which is missing from the sequence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess a Green Key, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sift through the items stacked upon the shelves, packed in cases and hidden in the personal bags of the Drakkarim commander, and discover the following which may be of use to you during your mission:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>2 potions of Laumspur (each restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>Hourglass</li>
- <li>Signet Ring</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>3 Arrows</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">To continue, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sense detects that your approach to this door has set off a trap.</p>
- <p>You shout a warning to Prarg, and he reacts with commendable swiftness. The two of you hit the floor and, moments later, several razor-sharp sword blades lunge from slits in the walls to rake the air just a few feet above your heads. Then they retract and lock back into the walls with a deadly slickness.</p>
- <p>When you are sure that this trap no longer poses a threat to your lives, you get to your feet and move forward to take a closer look at the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake with the dawn and fix a hasty breakfast before breaking camp. Within the hour you are ready to begin your trek towards Magnaarn's stronghold at Shugkona, but first you must dispose of your boat. Prarg takes what provisions he needs, then, with his sword, he pierces several holes in the keel. You launch the boat towards the centre of the river and watch as slowly it sinks beneath the surface. The moment it disappears, you leave the river's edge and set off into the trees.</p>
- <p>Deep in the forest the snowfall is light underfoot, because of the thick canopy of branches overhead, and you find the going much easier than expected. You are struck by the unexpected beauty of this dense timberland in winter, by the intricate webs of frost that trail between its blue-green branches, and by its frozen streams and waterfalls. But even as you admire it, you remain ever conscious of its dangers. Prarg leads the way, and swiftly you progress from one concealed marker to another, all having been placed by him on previous missions behind enemy lines. By using his system of hidden signposts he is able to guide you safely through a maze of Drakkarim outposts and patrol routes that riddle this timberland.</p>
- <p>It is nearing noon and you have covered more than twenty miles when Prarg motions you to halt: he has found something unexpected. Nailed to a trunk is a small rectangle of orange-coloured metal.</p>
- <p><quote>This is a Drakkarim marker,</quote> he says, after closer examination. <quote>They use them to mark the perimeter boundaries of their forest camps. It wasn't here the last time I came this way which means there must be a new outpost here, somewhere close.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How close?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Within half a mile at most.</quote></p>
- <p>For a few moments you stop and listen to the silence of the forest. You close your eyes and concentrate, and through the use of your aural skills, you detect noises away to the north. The sounds are mixed and many, and you are unable to discern their exact cause.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you wish to investigate these sounds, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you choose to avoid them, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With forbearance, you make the difficult trek westwards through the dense forest, following the scant trail left by Magnaarn's troops. Dusk arrives within the hour and with it comes a fresh fall of snow which hampers your progress further. You are hungry, and unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">To continue, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The beast's albino eyes widen and you feel a wave of psychic energy washing over you. It is trying to subdue you, to hypnotize you. Your Magnakai skill of Psi-screen blocks this primitive Mindforce but Prarg succumbs to the hypnotic suggestion. Rigidly he stands to attention as the creature makes its attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you possess Animal Mastery, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you have none of these skills, or choose not to use any of them, <link-text>turn instead to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature shakes its ghastly head and emits a piercing shriek. Its great hunger and natural predatory instincts have overcome your psychic commands and, with anger blazing in its eyes, it comes lunging towards you, flailing at the air with its dagger-flints as it closes in for the kill. You step back and get ready to defend yourself as the beast rushes towards you at a breathtaking pace.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Stalker</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you a few moments to disentangle yourself from the coarse, hairy limbs and weighty carcasses of the Nad-jaguz war-hogs. As you emerge, bruised and bespattered with their blood, you see Captain Prarg climbing the stairs to the tower door, his sword in his hand. At once you recognize his purpose; he intends to silence the tower guard before he can raise the alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to follow Prarg, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you decide to enter the tower via the open hatch, through which the war-hogs first appeared, <link-text>turn instead to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry to the door and examine the lock. It is a unique design, quite unlike any you have seen before. It appears be made entirely of silver with a keyhole that is smooth and circular in shape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you possess a Silver Rod, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect221-1-foot" idref="sect221-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the doors you discover a large echoing hall, lit by a circle of torches which flare dimly in the moist gloom. The atmosphere is saturated with a malevolent power, an evil that is welling up from somewhere deep below ground. Immediately to your right you see a ladder which ascends to the upper floor of the tower, and to your left there is a wide staircase which leads down. Your senses scream a warning as you approach this staircase and begin to descend, but this time you choose to ignore your trusty instincts. The aura of evil which pervades this place has its source, and you are certain that it is the Doomstone of Darke, the very object you have sworn to destroy.</p>
- <p>The staircase leads down to a winding torchlit hallway which passes through a series of narrow chambers, all empty and derelict. Eventually, you come to an iron portal and you stop for a few moments to examine the intricate engravings that embellish its age-blackened surface. Quickly you realize that the engravings are not mere decorations, they are part of a sophisticated combination lock which holds this door secure.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="326"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="326"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A host of writhing dragons are intertwined above a dial edged with ancient numerals. Each dragon has a number engraved upon its forehead, similar to those numbers which encircle the dial. Your senses inform you that the dragon numbers form a puzzle, and by solving this puzzle you will discover the <quote>key</quote> to this door. Then, by turning the dial to this <quote>key</quote> number, the lock will disengage and the door will open.</p>
- <choice>Study this puzzle. When you think you have found the answer, turn to the entry in this book which is the same as your answer.<a id="sect221-1" idref="sect221-1-foot" class="footnote"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you discover that your answer is wrong, or if you cannot solve the puzzle, <link-text>turn instead to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The driver shouts a rude greeting to the guards at the main gates as they pull them open, allowing the cart to pass through into the town unchallenged. You stay hidden beneath the straw until the cart slows to a halt, then, very carefully, you raise your head and take a look around. You have stopped in a muddy alley which runs between a stables and an armoury. This alley opens on to a central square that has been turned into a prisoner of war compound. It is enclosed by a crude fence of wire and sharpened stakes, and is patrolled by sentries with Akataz war-dogs. You estimate at least two hundred Lencians are being held captive here, and in conditions that are shocking to behold. The men are being kept out in the open, without shelter or heat of any kind, and judging by their physical state, it looks as if the Drakkarim are purposefully starving them to death.</p>
- <p>Shock soon turns to anger and you vow that you will do whatever you can to save these prisoners. Unseen, you slip from the rear of the cart and wait in the shadows until the chance comes for you to approach the fence and make contact with the Lencians.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, or higher, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you have yet to reach this level of Kai Grand Mastership, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first the ascent is easy, but as you approach the ledge you find that the chasm wall is dry and crumbly, making it very difficult for you to find safe purchase for your toes and fingers.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If your present Kai rank is Grand Guardian or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sounds of the struggle cease abruptly and you hear gruff Drakkarim voices yelling and cursing in anger. A yellowy light flares up and grows brighter as it approaches the broken trapdoor. Then the face of a Drakkar appears, framed in the ragged hole, illuminated grotesquely by the guttering flames of a torch. The Drakkar thrusts the torch through the shattered door and peers into the cellar, his small piggy eyes probing into every corner. You keep completely still, and he fails to see you lying beneath the clutter of barrels and casks.</p>
- <p>The moment the face and the torch disappear, you prise yourself free and then scramble up onto an upright barrel in order to reach the trapdoor. Prarg and the Drakkarim are no longer in the alleyway, yet as you pull yourself through the gaping hole, you catch sight of them in the square beyond. The Drakkarim have captured Prarg; they have tied his hands and they are marching him along the west avenue towards the centre of the town, towards Magnaarn's headquarters.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149"><link-text>Turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a splash in the powdery snow and a sharp pain lances across your right shoulder blade. You have been grazed by an arrow, but fortunately, the wound is shallow: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141"><link-text>Turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having decided to follow Magnaarn's tracks, you are now faced with the unwelcome prospect of a tiring foot-slog through the Tozaz forest, unless, of course, you can find some other means of speeding your journey. Using your Kai mastery, you scan the surrounding woodland and send out a silent call for help A few minutes pass, then a wild dog appears. He is soon joined by a handful of other creatures: a young grey-skinned boar, two feral snow-cats and an ape-like Rhudun. Unfortunately, none are large or sturdy enough to carry you any great distance.</p>
- <p>Then, from out of the snow-laden undergrowth, bursts forth a wild stag. It is a magnificent animal, as large and as strong as any stallion. Subdued by your commands, it approaches and tilts it antlered head to allow you to climb upon its back. Obediently it responds as you steer it through forest, heading westwards in the wake of Magnaarn's troops.</p>
- <p>Shortly after dusk you come to the banks of the River Shug, close by a small settlement of log huts which are grouped around a derelict ferry post. You dismount, and with a slap to its rump, you send the stag trotting back to its forest home. You watch him disappear towards the distant tree-line, then you turn back to the river and approach the huts on foot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Arrow hits the creature squarely in the chest but its tip fails to penetrate the bone armour. With a shriek of anger and contempt, the Ciquali knocks Prarg aside and comes lumbering towards you with both claw-tipped hands outstretched. Swiftly you shoulder your Bow and unsheathe your weapon in readiness to repel this beast as it makes a desperate lunge for your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ciquali Chieftain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a dozen razor-sharp sword blades lunge from out of the walls and come scything towards you at waist-height. You shout a warning to Prarg and push him to the floor, an action which saves his life, but in doing so it leaves you vulnerable to this trap. You try to twist aside but you are gashed across your stomach and lower back: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The blades retract and lock back into the wall with a deadly slickness. You staunch your bleeding wounds and, when you are sure that this trap no longer poses a threat to your lives, you stagger to your feet and move forward to take a closer look at the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307"><link-text>Turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you ride along this road of frozen earth, the sky begins to darken ominously and the weather closes in. What begins as a light flurry of snow soon deteriorates into an icy squall which cuts through you like a knife. Your Magnakai skills protect you from the cold, but Captain Prarg is not so fortunate. He utters not a word of complaint but you can sense that he is in great discomfort. Moreover, your horse, already tired from the exertions of the escape, is greatly weakened by the icy winds. Eventually it can carry you no further and you are forced to halt and dismount.</p>
- <p>Your Kai senses warn you that enemy cavalry are in pursuit. You are a few miles ahead of them but their mounts are fresh and the distance between you is shrinking rapidly. You are about to suggest to Prarg that you abandon the horse altogether and seek shelter in the surrounding forest, when suddenly there is a lull in the storm and the falling snow thins out to reveal an unexpected sight.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Below you the forest road descends to a stone bridge which crosses a frozen stream.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You have stopped near the crest of a hill. Below you the forest road descends to a stone bridge which crosses a frozen stream. A rough log cabin stands beside this bridge, and a thin trail of wood smoke rises from its crooked chimney indicating that it is occupied. At the rear you see stables and at once you sense the presence of horses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to approach the cabin and attempt to take a fresh mount from the stables, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you choose to abandon your exhausted horse and take to the forest on foot, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer the boat towards the river bank and as soon as the prow embeds itself in the mud, you disembark and make your way quickly towards two lines of ramshackle huts which are standing near the water's edge. A narrow alley separates these hovels, and it is from here that you observe the town's defences and try to assess how many Drakkarim are stationed within this stronghold.</p>
- <p>The town itself comprises a sorry collection of battle-damaged buildings, ringed by a perimeter wall of logs which is shored up in many places. Several long and bitter battles have been fought here over the past year, and everywhere you look the vivid scars of war are plain to see. The town is strangely quiet and it appears to be weakly protected. The Drakkarim garrison are few in number, and those that you have seen so far appear to be either young, old, or walking wounded.</p>
- <p>Night is beginning to draw in. The Drakkarim are lighting the torches which line the perimeter wall, and a change of guard is taking place at the main gate. You are considering leaving this town and continuing on your way towards Darke, when suddenly you see something which makes you change your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <quote>Silence</quote> and within the confines of the cabin all sound ceases. The Drakkarim sergeant screams for help, but to his amazement, he finds he has suddenly been struck dumb. You unsheathe your weapon and rush forward to strike him down, determined to finish him before the effects of the spell wear off.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkarim Sergeant</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">29</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the surprise of your spell and the speed of your attack, ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss you may sustain in the first round of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fearful of what may happen if your stay in this chamber any longer, you retrace your steps and make your way swiftly to the place where you first emerged from the collapsed passage. You pause here to catch your breath, then you continue along the tunnel until, once more, you find yourself standing at the edge of the chasm. You scan this vast and dismal fissure, hoping to find a means of escape from this grim subterranean prison.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An ominous noise comes rolling across the plain from the city of Darke, a thunderous boom that shakes the very ground on which you lie. You look towards the city and see that the battle is growing ever fiercer. But now there is a new and sinister aspect. Flickerings of magical fire can be seen dancing along battlements, engulfing friend and foe alike. You sense that it is the work of Magnaarn; he and his Nadziranim allies are responsible for this.</p>
- <p>Then, through the smoke of battle, you see a Lencian flag flying proudly amidst the carnage that is taking place on the coastal plain to the south of the city. Here, King Sarnac's crusaders have turned an enemy flank and are storming its weakened centre. Maquin and Schera see the flag and, encouraged by the cheers of their own men, they decide to march at once in support of the crusaders' brave attack.</p>
- <p>You wish them both good fortune, for you know the time has come to part company with these brave men. Their destiny awaits them on the field of battle; yours will be found inside the city of Darke itself where, if you are to fulfil your quest, you must confront Warlord Magnaarn.</p>
- <p>You bid them farewell and watch as they lead their men in a marching column along the river road towards the field of battle. When they are a mile distant, you set off alone across the plain towards the hamlet, which lies en route to the gates of Darke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The boat glides silently through the dark, syrupy water and within minutes the huts are lost to sight. Unlike the smooth muddy banks of Dakushna's Channel, the shores of this newly-formed passage comprise a tangle of exposed roots and rotting vegetation. A foul-smelling mist clings to these torn roots, exuding a corpse-like chill that, despite your Kai skills, makes you shiver involuntarily.</p>
- <p>You have been following this unwelcoming canal for nearly a mile when it starts to meander towards the east, and soon you are brought to a halt when an unexpected obstruction looms into view. A matted raft of floating, frost-covered weeds has become ensnared upon the right bank, partially blocking the way ahead.</p>
- <p>You are observing the raft, looking for a way to steer around it, when suddenly your senses alert you to a hidden danger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Captain Schera musters his men, and posts lookouts around the town wall as a precaution in case the Drakkarim return during the night with reinforcements. He then oversees the care of the sick and wounded. You are impressed by his devotion to the men under his command and, once his duties are completed, you return with him to the armoury to formulate a plan of action. It is decided that it is too dangerous to remain here and you agree that you should leave at first light. Schera says there are sufficient boats to transport everyone downriver to Darke, but there is a risk that you could run foul of Magnaarn's troops. However, he is determined to rejoin his army. If the Lencians are still resisting Magnaarn, then he reasons that the city of Darke is where the battle is most likely to be taking place.</p>
- <p>Before you settle down to sleep, one of Schera's men brings you some food and ale: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23">To continue, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land with a jolt, crashing down upon a stack of ale barrels which topple and fall, pinning you beneath them: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Stunned by the fall, and with blood trickling into your eyes from a gash on your forehead, at first you feel totally unable to move. Then you hear sounds that immediately stir you into action. In the alleyway above, you hear the sounds of a struggle taking place: the Drakkarim have found Prarg and they are attempting to overpower him by force.</p>
- <choice idref="sect225"><link-text>Turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect238-1-foot" idref="sect238-1">
- <p>The weapon bonuses are cumulative (e.g. the Dagger of Vashna which is a Dagger and a Special Item confers a bonus of +1: 2 - 1).</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and attack the ice. Time is fast running out for your trapped companion; you have but a few seconds in which to reach him or he will surely drown.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If the weapon you are using is a Special Item, add 2 to the number you have picked. If it is a Mace, a Warhammer, an Axe, or a Broadsword, add 1. If it is a Dagger, a Quarterstaff, or a Short Sword, deduct 1.<a id="sect238-1" idref="sect238-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Many hours pass before you regain consciousness, and although your terrible ordeal has left you physically weakened, your mind is still as sharp and resolute as ever. You are determined to find a route to the surface and continue your quest, for even though Magnaarn now has Captain Prarg and the Doomstone of Darke, there may yet be a way you can defeat him. Before he entombed you in the passage he admitted that you alone posed a threat to his quest for victory over Lencia. Now that he thinks you dead and buried, you feel sure you can turn this to your advantage.</p>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and peer along the gloomy passageway in either direction, east and west. You are anxious to pursue a route that will lead you quickly to the surface, and when you detect cold, damp air wafting from the west, you hurry this way. But you are soon disappointed. The passageway ends abruptly at the edge of a vast chasm, formed by the same destructive powers which buried you alive. At the bottom of this great fissure is a river of black water, and high above, you glimpse a few rays of winter daylight filtering through a tiny rent in the darkness. It looks so far distant that you abandon any thought of reaching it from here and return along the passageway.</p>
- <p>A few hundred yards beyond where you emerged, you discover an octagonal chamber that is bathed by an eerie green light. This light is emitted by fungi which blanket the walls and ceiling and illuminate a strange circular door that has an octagonal lock. You have been in the chamber for no more than a few seconds when your senses detect something is wrong. Invisible fumes are rising from the fungi, which, in your weakened state, are making you feel dizzy and nauseous.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand directly below the shaft and focus your Kai power on the basket-sized nests that are fixed along its walls. The incessant buzzing grows steadily louder, then several lines of large wasp-like insects emerge from the nests and escape towards the sky at the top of the shaft, driven away by your mental command.</p>
- <p>When you feel sure that the nests are empty, you reach up and take a grip of the rough brick which lines the shaft. It offers good purchase for your fingers and toes, enabling you to climb past the nests and reach the top of the shaft in a matter of minutes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an Arrow, then you peep around the corner and fire at the advancing Death Knight. Your shaft hits him in the middle of his chest and knocks him flat on his back. He is fatally wounded but, incredibly, he finds the strength to reach for a horn which is strung around his neck. In his dying moments he is trying to summon help.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you wish to fire a second Arrow at the Death Knight, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you do not wish to fire again, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your burst of psychic energy penetrates the war-dog's mind, causing it to shriek with pain and fear. Immediately the others halt in their tracks, visibly shaken by the horrible cries of their leader, but their hesitation is short-lived. Their hunger is so great that, despite the fearsome howls of their pack master, they ignore his plight and continue their advance upon you and Captain Prarg.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn instead to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At last you strike the killing blow that sends this evil amphibian spiralling down to the bottom of the frigid lake. Once free of its grip, you take hold of Prarg's tunic and pull him towards the jagged hole in the ice. Then, with great difficulty, you climb out of the water and haul your unconscious companion to safety. His skin is deep violet, he is barely breathing, and his entire body is shaking uncontrollably. Using your healing skills, you transmit some of your body warmth through your hands to his chest and face and, within a few minutes, he comes out of his state of shock as his body returns to its normal temperature. Your prompt action has saved his life, but it has also drained you of 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap down upon the unsuspecting lancer, but you have judged the jump badly and you only glance his shoulder before you hit the ground. Stunned by the fall, you react slowly when the Drakkar unholsters his lance and tries to impale you upon its steel tip.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Drakkar Lancer</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Because of the fall, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 10 for the first two rounds of this fight. You are unable to use any potions prior to combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dispatch the Drakkarim with deadly precision. Then you hide their bodies in a nearby hovel, just in case their comrades should notice their absence and care enough to come looking for them. You are keen to leave this place but, before you go, you notice that one of them is wearing a hooded leather cloak which could help you get inside the town. It is big enough to hide your Kai tunic and, when pulled up, the hood hides your face completely.</p>
- <p>Wrapped totally in this cloak, you approach the main gates. The guards are busy admitting the latest batch of prisoners and they do not give you a second glance as you stride confidently into the town. Once inside, you head towards a dark, deserted alleyway which is sandwiched between a stables and an armoury. From here you observe the compound with a growing anger and pity for those trapped inside. Stirred by their plight, you vow to help these starving men. Patiently you watch and wait for the patrols to pass, then you scurry towards the compound fence, eager to make contact with the Lencians.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely the horse attempts to clear the trench but it is simply too weak. Its rear legs buckle as it tries to jump and you and Prarg are both thrown head-first into the trench. Painfully you land amongst a heap of picks, shovels, and other entrenching tools: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">To continue, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You empty the dead Drakkar's pockets and pouches, and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Bottle (empty)</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>2 Arrows</li>
- <li>Ball of String</li>
- <li>40 Kika (equivalent to 4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You are about to abandon the body when suddenly you notice something gleaming in the top of its left boot. It is a rod of silver, plain and unmarked, and little more than four inches in length. If you wish to keep this Silver Rod, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in your pocket.</p>
- <p>Satisfied that you have overlooked nothing of worth, you turn your attention to clearing the rockfall which is blocking your escape from this landing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">To continue, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The order goes out to advance quickly towards the distant hamlet. But you have covered barely a quarter of a mile when you see enemy horsemen fast approaching from the north. Mindful of the danger of being caught out here in the open, Baron Maquin orders his mercenaries to form into a square in readiness to repel a cavalry attack. Captain Schera issues the same order to his men, and together they create a square that is bristling with spears.</p>
- <p>The cavalry thunder towards you, undaunted by the sight of this porcupine-like defence. The first wave of Drakkarim cavalry slam against the square and are repulsed with heavy losses, then a second line hits home and it, too, fails to break through. The wounded are dragged to the centre of the square and the ranks close in readiness to face the next charge. Twice the Drakkarim have been repulsed but they are a determined enemy and they are getting ready to attack again. This time the charge is led by armoured Zagganozod, on warhorses that are sheathed with plates of bronze. Their armour, and the sheer weight of their attack, smashes a corner of the square and, in a terrible moment of carnage and chaos, several enemy horsemen break into the middle of the square and trample the helpless wounded.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The charge is led by armoured Zagganozod on warhorses that are sheathed with plates of bronze.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="591"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="591"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You rush to help them but, in the heat of the battle, you are knocked down by a riderless horse. Before you can get to your feet you are attacked simultaneously by two enemy lancers, who are maniacally determined to pin you to the ground with their lances.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Zagganozod Lancers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You glimpse the guard's startled eyes, made unnaturally large by the lens, and instantly you know that you have been seen. The Drakkar retreats from the observation slit and, moments later, a noise issues from the base of the tower. It is the rattle of chains and the creak of straining timbers.</p>
- <p>A section of the tower's log wall is opening like a castle drawbridge, revealing a dark cave-like opening at its base. The noise prompts you to increase speed until you are racing towards Prarg just as fast as you can. You hope to reach him before the portal opens completely, but before the descending section hits the ground, from out of the darkness leap five vicious war-hogs. Their fearsome tusks glint like sharpened knives as they come charging across the snow to attack you head-on.</p>
- <p>You have no time to avoid this attack; you must draw a hand weapon and fight these beasts to the death.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Nad-jaguz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you possess Animal Mastery, add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sound of a dog growling loudly in your ear stirs you to sudden wakefulness. Instinctively you reach for your weapon, but as you do so, a set of sharp fangs closes about your wrist: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Fiercely you struggle to free yourself from the vice-tight jaws of an Akataz. The war-dog hangs on to your wrist with grim determination until a blow to its neck with the edge of your left hand kills it instantly. As its body drops to the snow, you unsheathe your weapon and call out to Prarg. He replies, but his voice is distant and filled with desperation. You climb the river bank, cursing yourself for allowing your guide to take the first watch. Overcome by fatigue he must have fallen asleep, allowing a pack of marauding Akataz to fall upon you without warning.</p>
- <p>As you crest the bank, you see Prarg stabbing and slashing with his sword, fighting like a wild man to save himself from a dozen of the snapping, snarling war-dogs.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, Prarg!</quote> you shout, as you rush to his aid, <quote>Stand back-to-back. Don't let them separate us or you're done for!</quote></p>
- <combat><enemy>Wild Akataz Pack</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">55</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These war-dogs are especially susceptible to psychic attack. Double all bonuses you would normally receive should you decide to use a psychic attack during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is late afternoon when you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You get to your feet and hurry along this tunnel in the opposite direction. Before long you find yourself in a section of this underground labyrinth which has suffered greatly during the recent rockfalls. Many fissures have opened up the stone floor and shattered the walls, but you take these obstacles in your stride and soon arrive at a ruined staircase which ascends to a landing. Here you are confronted by the corpse of a Drakkarim guard. It is slumped beside a mound of rubble which is blocking the stairs to the next level above. A quick examination of the dead body reveals that both arms are broken. Injured and trapped here by the rockfall, it appears that this guard eventually died of thirst.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you wish to search the body further, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you wish to attempt to clear away the rubble that is blocking the stairs, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately below the window of the grain tower sits a Drakkar lancer astride his warhorse. He is one of a dozen troopers who have been posted around the perimeter of the square to guard its many exits, but he is more interested in watching the execution than carrying out his duty. His lance is sheathed in a tube-like scabbard fixed to the rear of his saddle, and all his attention is focused on the platform. He is unaware that you are hiding barely a few yards from where he sits.</p>
- <p>The officer puts away his oiled stone and a murmur of expectation ripples through the assembled Drakkarim as he gets ready to raise the axe. Captain Prarg has no more than a few minutes left to live; you must act now if you are to save him. Quickly, you climb through the open window and leap from the ledge on to the back of the unwary lancer below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect244">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If your total score is now 4&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If your total score is now 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As one, the soldiers draw their weapons and come rushing towards the ground floor entrance to the tower. You retreat from the window and look around for a means of escape for already you can hear the first of the enemy climbing the stairs. With fear running cold in your veins you cross to a window on the far side of the tower. But before you reach it you are confronted at the top of the stairs by two formidable warriors. They are Death Knights, the fighting élite of the Drakkarim.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Death Knights</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you win this combat in three rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If this combat takes four rounds or longer to resolve, <link-text>turn instead to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt enters the keyhole and shatters the lock with a deafening boom. The heavy door is flung open, and you see standing before you two Tukodak guards, both visibly shaking from the effects of concussion. Before they come to their senses and reach for their weapons, you rush forward and silence them both with two swift and deadly open-handed blows to their necks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pause to incant the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Strength</spell> and within seconds you feel the fatigue disappear from your aching muscles. A vibrant sense of power and well-being infuses your whole body, enabling you to attack the rockfall with increased effect. Soon you have removed enough debris to enable you to squeeze through the gap to a clear section of the stairwell beyond. Once here, you block the opening behind you, and then race up the steps to the level above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rise at dawn and peer out of the cabin porthole to be greeted by a wondrous sight, for the <cite>Skyrider</cite> is now flying west along the Tentarias, the great divide that parts the two continents of Magnamund. You are soaring more than a mile above blue-green waters which shimmer in the early morning sun. Sunlight is also reflecting from the snow-capped mountain peaks of the Great Bor and Boradon mountains which rise up on either side to form a gigantic corridor of unyielding stone. Fondly the crew cast their eyes across the northern landscape, for this is the magnificent realm of Bor, the place of their birth, and many years have elapsed since they last visited their native land.</p>
- <p>The weather remains clear and swift progress is made as the <cite>Skyrider</cite> follows its course along the Tentarias towards the Gulf of Lencia. By mid-morning you pass within a few miles of Humbold, capital of Eru, then emerge from the mountain corridor to a less enchanting sight. To the north, as far as the eye can see, stretches a dull and sickly mire. It is the infamous Hellswamp, an infernal morass of twisted vegetation and treacherous, shifting mudflats. Slowly the hours pass and the anticipation of your arrival at Vadera steadily grows. Then, at two hours past noon, the lookout catches first sight of the city-port nestling in its protected bay along the Lencian coast. You join Nolrim at the prow as skilfully he begins a descent towards the main square, the only place large enough to accommodate the craft in the closely packed quarters of this populous city.</p>
- <p>At first, the sight of the <cite>Skyrider</cite> gliding towards their city causes a wave of panic among the Vaderans, who mistake it for a Drakkarim machine of war. But this initial fear is soon assuaged when the tower lookouts pass word that your mast bears a Sommlending flag. Upon landing, masses of curious citizens surge from out of the surrounding streets to form a ring of bodies around the airship's keel. Then a troop of armoured guardsmen push through the crowds and the air is filled with the buzz of their excited speculation. After a brief consultation with Lord Floras, they escort you both to the Vadera Citadel for an immediate audience with King Sarnac.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25"><link-text>Turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unexpectedly your Arrow pierces the creature's heart, which is located at its midriff, and brings the beast crashing on to the snow. For a few moments it twitches and shivers fitfully, then it stiffens and lies still with a sudden abruptness. Prarg regains his composure and sheepishly he steps forward to look at the dead creature.</p>
- <p><quote>The Gods are watching over us, Sire,</quote> he says, quite respectfully. <quote>This beast is a Mawtaw. Few can say they have defeated this fearsome king of the Tozaz forest.</quote></p>
- <p>You decide to press on without delay, just in case there are others of its breed close by. Your instinct and Pathsmanship skills lead you in a northerly direction and you cover more than five miles before the trees begin to thin out. Then you emerge from the forest to be greeted by an unexpected and spectacular sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192"><link-text>Turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two escorts enter the alleyway and, although you are less than ten feet away from them, they fail to see you hiding in the shadowy doorway. You watch as they open the sack and proceed to pick over and divide its contents. It is filled with the spoils of battle: items of value which they have taken from prisoners or stolen from the dead.</p>
- <p>They laugh greedily until they hear the gruff shouts of their sergeant who is standing at the main gates, shouting out their names. Quickly they hide their booty in a hole beneath an empty horse trough, then they leave the alleyway and hurry back to the town.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you wish to uncover the hiding place and search the sack, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you choose instead to follow these two Drakkarim, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dark alleys and streets surrounding the gaol are illuminated by a hundred guttering brands. Magnaarn's soldiers are everywhere, casting their suspicious eyes over every section of the nighted town laid bare by their torches. Your Kai skills keep you hidden from sight and soon you reach the gaol, but only to discover that the entrance is now heavily guarded by a platoon of Drakkarim.</p>
- <p>You abandon your hopes of entering by the front door and instead you circle around to an alley at the rear of the building where you discover a line of windows, each one criss-crossed with iron bars. Instinct leads you to the last in the line and you peer inside to see Captain Prarg lying on a bed of filthy straw. He looks in poor shape; both his eyes are bruised, his lips are swollen, and his bushy moustache is caked with dried blood. You whisper his name and wearily he turns his head towards the cell window. Then he sees you and suddenly his whole face lights up with renewed hope.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank the Gods you are still free, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says quietly, pressing his battered face to the bars. <quote>The Drakkarim have tried to make me talk but I have kept silent. They know nothing about the mission.</quote></p>
- <p>You examine the cell window and reassure Prarg that you will soon spring him from this gaol, but he insists that you do not risk your life on his account.</p>
- <p><quote>Listen, Sire. I have learned that Magnaarn isn't here in Shugkona. When the gaolers' beat me, I feigned unconsciousness and overheard them say that their leader is at a place called Antah. It's a ruined temple some forty miles away to the north. They talked of certain victory now that their warlord has found <quote>the stone</quote>. Please, Lone Wolf, I beseech you to continue without me. Go to Antah and defeat Magnaarn, before it is too late.</quote></p>
- <p>Then a yellowy flicker of torchlight at the end of the alley cuts short your conversation. It is a Drakkarim patrol. They turn the corner and come marching towards you with purposeful steps.</p>
- <p><quote>Don't give up hope, Captain,</quote> you say, as you make ready to run from the approaching patrol, <quote>I'll come back for you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect79"><link-text>Turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered no more than a few hundred yards of this dark and dreary tunnel when you sense imminent danger. You stop and, using your Kai tracking skills, you attempt to identify the nature of this threat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect335">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You send one of the scouts to summon Captain Schera and his men, and when they arrive they are treated most hospitably by the mercenaries who, despite their own hunger, unselfishly share out their meagre rations.</p>
- <p>You stay here overnight and break camp at dawn. The Baron's regiment has suffered heavily in battle and now totals little more than forty men, and so you have no difficulty in finding room for them in the boats. Captain Schera is especially pleased to have these warriors aboard. Despite their losses, they are a cheerful group and they help lift the morale of his men.</p>
- <p>The journey downstream passes swiftly and without incident until, shortly before noon, the sky grows steadily darker. An orange glow illuminates the distant horizon, and you can see many pinpoints of fire spread all across the land. An eerie silence descends on the flotilla as it draws nearer to the city of Darke. Shortly after, you see lines of troops marching towards the glowing skyline. Then you witness isolated actions taking place in the surrounding fields as groups of Lencian knights, cut off during the retreat, fight desperate hand-to-hand battles with Drakkarim cavalry. Some Drakkarim horse scouts have reached the river bank, and as you pass them, they open fire at you with their bows. But the swift current soon carries the flotilla away and there are few casualties.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Whilst observing the distant battle, a large black carrion crow lands on a nearby log and stares at you with a cold, beady eye.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>It is an hour past noon when you first see the forbidding city of Darke. A great battle is raging around its mighty walls and bastions, and the noise and stench of this fierce conflict comes gusting towards you on the chill winter wind. The river current is getting stronger as it approaches the sea, and so you signal to the other boats to row for the bank. You put ashore on the right bank and both Captain Schera and Baron Maquin have their men take up defensive positions here. There is a road close by, running parallel to the river, and beyond it lies a snowy expanse of open plain on which many regiments of Drakkarim, and some Giaks, are marching towards the city. You are observing the distant battle when a large black carrion crow lands on a nearby log and stares at you with a cold, beady eye.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You peer through the grimy glass and see a grizzled old Drakkar sitting in front of a blazing fire. A briar pipe hangs precariously from the corner of his bearded mouth and he puffs fitfully at its contents as he reads from a tattered, leather-bound book which lies open in his lap.</p>
- <p>You sense that he is a veteran of many battles who, now that he is too old to fight, has been given the undemanding task of guarding this river crossing. Mindful that time is fast running out, you leave the window and hurry on towards the stables.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The remaining Gorodon utters a high-pitched and piercing whistle as your killing blow steals its life. Its massive limbs shudder and stiffen, then, with a final gasp, it topples over and lands heavily in the thick mud.</p>
- <p>Prarg brings the boat back to shore and, as he draws closer, you can see by his facial expression that he is greatly impressed by your incredible fighting skills. Respectfully he helps you aboard the boat then sets about rowing towards the west bank.</p>
- <p><quote>Sire, I salute you,</quote> he says, <quote>Never have I seen such courage and skill in the face of so formidable an enemy. I've heard tell of the fighting disciplines of the Sommlending Kai Lords, but, until now, I must admit I'd not wholly believed what I'd heard. The first time I navigated these channels I lost three good men in a Gorodon attack. Those beasts are the bane of this accursed place&ellips;yet, t'is true to say, there are other creatures here that are far deadlier. I count myself lucky indeed to be your guide.</quote></p>
- <p>Soon you reach the west bank where, once safely ashore, you encamp on a strip of frozen loam that overlooks a bleak expanse of marsh. Night has fallen and so, too, has the temperature. From the shelter of your upturned boat you cast your experienced eye across the darkening skies and see banks of cloud, heavy with snow, scudding the distant horizon. They are an unwelcome sight, the precursors to a winter storm.</p>
- <p>Prarg volunteers to continue the first watch but, mindful that his need for rest is greater than yours, you insist that he gets some sleep. For four hours you sit and scan the bleak horizon, your mind filled with unanswered questions about the mission and the dangers you have yet to face. While you ponder what awaits you in the near future, you remain watchful and alert, your encounter on the east bank still vivid in your mind. Fortunately, the increasing cold dissuades the Hellswamp's inhabitants from leaving their lairs this night and your watch passes without further incident.</p>
- <p>Then the time comes for you to awaken Prarg. With a noticeable lack of enthusiasm he takes his turn while you settle down to catch a few hours of much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You settle yourself close to the lock which holds the portal secure and, using your Discipline, you cause the ancient mechanism to vibrate. The portal begins to resonate and hairline cracks appear in the stone surrounding the lock. Then there is a loud <onomatopoeia>bang</onomatopoeia>; the lock has disintegrated.</p>
- <p>Confidently you move forward and place your shoulder to the portal. One hard push is all that is needed to break the seal of dirt, and slowly it creaks open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ease open the window and climb in, making an agile and silent entry. The Drakkarim sergeant, who is pilfering his Captain's private stock of wine, belches loudly, then tilts the bottle back to take another long gulp. He is unaware of you moving towards his back, and does not feel the blow to his neck that is to seal his doom.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="117"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="117"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The Drakkar shudders and, with an open-mouthed look of surprise, closes his eyes and drops lifelessly to the floor. Quickly you step over his body and hurry to the table to study the map. To your disappointment, the map turns out to be merely a construction plan of the encampment. If offers no clues to Magnaarn's present location.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you wish to search this cabin more thoroughly, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you choose to leave the cabin and return to Prarg, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch as the cavalry steadily approaches. As they come closer you recognize them to be Zagganozod, a unit of armoured Drakkarim troopers of a type you once encountered many years ago, during a quest that took you to the land of Eru. The enemy horsemen reach the road and you can tell by their gait that they are battle-weary.</p>
- <p><quote>Prepare!</quote> says Schera, and his whispered command is passed all along the line.</p>
- <p>The enemy cross the road and draw closer; they intend to water their horses at the river. They are less than ten yards distant when Baron Maquin yells the order to attack and, as one, the combined force of Lencians and League-landers rise up from hiding and catch the Drakkarim totally by surprise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are nearing the base of the stone ramp when suddenly you are seen by one of the Tukodak guards. He grunts a warning to his comrade. Quickly you draw your weapon in readiness to meet them as, shoulder to shoulder, they level their spears and move down the ramp towards you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tukodaks</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">34</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you do not act quickly enough to avoid the Drakkar's arrow. It hits you squarely in the upper chest, knocking you flat on your back: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Despite the pain, bravely you take hold of the arrow and wrench it from your chest. Then, using your innate healing skills, you successfully staunch the bleeding. But you are weakened by shock and for nearly an hour you lie in the bottom of the boat staring at the grey sky, allowing the river to carry you downstream, and when eventually you pull yourself upright you find that the Drakkarim renegades are no longer in sight.</p>
- <p>Your voyage continues without further incident until, later in the afternoon; you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take an Arrow from your Quiver and place it to your bow in readiness to shoot. You gauge the range at forty yards as you take aim at the Drakkar officer. Patiently you wait for him to reach the execution block, and at the very moment he stops moving, you release your straining bowstring and send your Arrow arching through the air towards his head.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Weaponmastery with Bow, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
-<!-- JDOUGAN: should this be +3? (Consistent with just being a reminder about the standard bonus?) -->
- <choice idref="sect183">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature opens its great jaws and from the depths of its throat it coughs forth a guttering ball of flame. Immediately, your senses alert you to the fact that this is no ordinary fireball; it is wholly psychic in nature. It comes roaring towards you like a mini-sun trailing fiery orange sparks. You strike at it with the Sommerswerd, and as your divine blade connects, the fiery ball suddenly explodes into a million motes of light which rapidly dissolve.</p>
- <p>The sudden jolt of contact knocks you backwards. Before you fully recover your footing, the creature seizes its advantage and comes leaping through the air towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283"><link-text>Turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The misguided knight falls unconscious at your feet. Before he recovers, you take to your heels and continue on across the plain which leads inexorably towards the gates of Darke.</p>
- <p>As you approach the city, the din of battle fills your ears. The shouts of angry men, the neighs of galloping steeds, the clang of riven steel and the terrible screams of the slain buffet you remorselessly. Then, all of a sudden, you are plunged into the battle and to survive you are forced to cleave your way through a seemingly endless wall of enemy troops. It is as if they are gladly willing to sacrifice themselves in order to prevent you from reaching the apex of the slope that ascends to the shattered gates of the city. Undeterred, you forge a bloody path through this Drakkarim horde, wielding your weapon with deadly precision, every blow claiming an enemy soul. It is not until you are standing upon the very threshold of the gates that you encounter more formidable defenders. The breached gates are being held by a trio of blood-spattered Tukodaks. They are in a state of battle-frenzy which you sense has been magically induced. Wild-eyed with savage bloodlust, they scream maniacally as they rush at you with their bloodied blades.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description> The breached gates are held by a trio of blood-spattered Tukodaks who rush at you with their bloodied blades.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="566"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="566"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund!</quote> you cry, as you steel yourself to meet their attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Tukodak Guardians (in battle-frenzy)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shortly you reach a small secluded cove where Captain Prarg discovers a rusty anchor. It is a landmark, left on purpose by agents of King Sarnac to point the way to the cave where they have left your boat and provisions. You find the cave and together you haul the boat down the beach and raise its coal-black sail before pushing it out into the icy waters of the Tentarias.</p>
- <p>Once aboard, you trim the sail whilst Prarg takes charge of the rudder. There is a good wind and within minutes your tiny craft is bobbing towards the far western channel of the Hellswamp, twenty miles distant. You ask Prarg if this dark estuary has a name, and he replies, <quote>Yes. The Drakkarim call it <quote>Dakushna's Channel</quote> after the Darklord who once commanded the city-fortress of Kagorst. They say it is a fitting dedication, for the waterway is as deadly and as treacherous as the being after whom it is named.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the tunnel for a mile further until it opens into a vast underground cistern. Slimy water splashes down the slick sides of this vertical shaft to mix with the rushing river before disappearing into a whirlpool which is swirling at its centre. The noise here is almost unbearable and you look around for some means of escape. The walkway ends at a rusty iron ladder which is cemented into the wall and ascends the shaft for as far as you can see. Slowly you climb this ladder, testing every rung carefully before trusting it to your weight.</p>
- <p>You climb for an hour before reaching the entrance to a man-sized tunnel set into the wall of the shaft. Here you leave the ladder and follow this damp passageway until you come to a small, smooth-walled chamber. At first it appears to be raining, then you notice that the ceiling is badly broken and water is dripping constantly from the cracks. Opposite the tunnel exit there is a stone door. Anxious to escape, you hurry across the chamber and place your shoulder to this heavy portal in an attempt to force it open, but unfortunately it is locked. Then you detect something unusual, an acrid burning smell. Your heart skips a beat when suddenly you realize that your cloak and tunic are smouldering and giving off wisps of bluish smoke. The fluid raining from the ceiling is not water at all&emdash;it is corrosive acid!</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you possess Grand Nexus, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you do not possess any of these Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You brief the three Lencians to spread out into an extended line and to watch carefully for your signals before you scale the river bank and make your approach to the trees. They all seem to be competent scouts but you have your reservations. Had it not been for Schera's insistence, you would have preferred to have reconnoitred this copse alone.</p>
- <p>Silently you creep forward through the snow, using the sparse undergrowth to your advantage wherever possible. You are less than a hundred yards into the copse when you spy a small cabin hidden among the trees. It comprises four white canvas tents attended by a dozen lean and hungry-looking human soldiers armed with longbows. A furled battle-flag stands propped against one of the tents and you signal to your nearest scout to join you, hoping he will be able to identify its chequered black-and-white design.</p>
- <p><quote>They're League-landers of Ilion,</quote> whispers the scout, staring at the campsite. <quote>I know that flag well. They're good mercenaries, these men, loyal to the King. We fought alongside them at Hokidat.</quote></p>
- <p>You are anxious about going forward and making contact with the mercenaries. If they are as good as your scout claims, there is a real danger that they will fire first and ask questions later. You tell your companion of your fears and he smiles.</p>
- <p><quote>Don't worry, Sire,</quote> he says, <quote>I know how to contact them.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scramble to your feet to see that your horse is still close by. He is standing at the forest's edge, steam rising from his flanks as hungrily he swallows mouthfuls of snow to cool himself down. You call to the animal, using your Magnakai skills, and at once he responds obediently to your silent commands. Drakkarim archers are now running from the outer defences and you are in danger of being surrounded unless you can make a speedy escape. You and Prarg remount the horse and set off at a gallop along the forest's edge. Only when you are safely beyond the range of the enemy's bows do you rejoin the road and head off towards the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you are about to leave the cabin, you notice a lantern hanging on a hook beside the door. You take it down, flip up its glass cover, then cast it into the corner where it immediately sets fire to a heap of clothes. The fire will cover your tracks and, hopefully, cause enough of a diversion to enable you to escape from the encampment unchallenged.</p>
- <p>As you hoped, the fire spreads quickly and, as you sprint across the frozen ground towards the forest's edge, you glance over your shoulder to see bright orange flames roaring from the open doorway, and a pall of black smoke rising into the steel-grey sky. You reach Prarg and together you hurry deeper into the forest. The fire covers your escape, but it also draws several Drakkarim patrols back to the encampment. You are forced to make a wide detour to the west in order to avoid these returning soldiers and your new route takes you across a steep and rugged part of the Tozaz forest previously unexplored by your guide.</p>
- <p>The difficult terrain slows you down and you cover less than six miles before failing light and the increasing sightings of Drakkarim patrols force you to halt and make camp for the night. From the safety of a treetop, fifty feet above the forest floor, you rope yourself to the trunk before settling down to sleep. You are hungry and, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90">To continue, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ship the oars and take aim with your bow at the pot-bellied leader of this band of lowly Drakkarim renegades. For a moment your eyes meet and instantly his nerve shatters when he realizes that he is your chosen target. He drops his bow and turns to run, but it does not save him; your Arrow still finds its mark. As he throws his hands to the sky and tumbles lifelessly into the river, panic breaks out among his motley followers. Any attempt to fire at you is soon forgotten as they scramble desperately up the muddy bank and flee for the safety of the hills.</p>
- <p>Your voyage continues without interruption until, later in the afternoon, you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After what seems like an eternity, you reach the icy-cold waters of the Gourneni and hurriedly launch your boat. Prarg scrambles over the stern, but as the aft drips beneath his weight, the rudder embeds itself in the mud and the boat is held fast.</p>
- <p><quote>Hurry Prarg! Break out the oars!</quote> you shout. <quote>I'll push!</quote></p>
- <p>The Gorodons are gaining ground; you can hear the rasping rush of their breathing as they close in for the kill. Desperately you press your shoulder to the stern timbers and push with all your might. There is a shudder, then suddenly the boat lurches forwards and you fall face first into the freezing water. You surface almost immediately and blink the muddy water from your eyes to see the boat drifting away towards the middle of the river. Prarg is leaning over the gunwale with his arms outstretched:</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, Lone Wolf!</quote> he screams. <quote>They're nearly upon you!</quote></p>
- <p>Sensing that it would be quicker to swim than wade towards the boat, you bring your hands together in readiness to dive. But before you can launch yourself forwards, you feel something sharp graze your shoulders. An instant later, you are lifted out of the river and hurled backwards through the air to land, with a thick splash, in the mud at the water's edge. One of the Gorodons caught your cloak upon its bull-like horns and, with a flick of its powerful neck muscles, it has tossed you all the way back to the shoreline.</p>
- <p>Cold, stunned, and covered with mud, you struggle to find your feet and unsheathe your weapon as the three Gorodons come lumbering through the shallows, eager to kill and consume.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you possess Kai-surge <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The chilling echo of Magnaarn's voice is drowned by new sounds: the rattle of chains and the rumble of falling stone. You shout a warning to Prarg and he dives aside only just in time to avoid being crushed by a heavy portcullis. The great stone portal slams down, partitioning the passageway and separating you from the Captain. The dust has barely settled when a section of the passage wall slides open behind Prarg, and a trio of Magnaarn's Tukodak bodyguards leap out and seizes him. Your companion is unarmed and he is quickly and brutally overpowered. Anger floods your mind and you vow to get even with these cruel Drakkarim, but they are not impressed by your threat. They are aware of your exceptional skills yet they feel safe behind the portcullis. With a knife held to Prarg's throat they taunt you and dare you to retaliate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you do not, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the gentle buzzing becomes an angry drone. Then from out of the lowest nest comes a swarm of wasp-like insects, each as large as a clenched fist. Alerted by your body warmth, they hurtle down the shaft and gather in a menacing cloud around the opening. For a few moments they hover there, virtually motionless, then they begin to circle the ceiling, led by an insect whose vivid scarlet markings stand out in stark contrast to the black and yellow striped torsos of the others.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>From out of the lowest nest comes a swarm of wasp-like insects, each as large as a clenched fist.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="613"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="613"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As the encircling swarm gathers speed, the lower section of their bodies begins to glow, illuminating needle-like stingers in their tails. You draw your weapon and get ready to defend yourself lest they should attack, but you are caught off-guard when suddenly the leading insects fire their stingers at you. Diving aside, you avoid being hit by this volley of venom-tipped needles, but as you scramble to your feet the remainder of the swarm break away and dive down to attack your unprotected back.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Antah Wasps</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These insects are immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Pathsmanship skills, you identify and gather up a handful of edible roots, fungi and berries from the forest floor which you then offer to Prarg. At first he thinks you are joking. Then, once you assure him that they are nutritious, he accepts this dubious selection and starts to eat.</p>
- <p><quote>Damn rabbit food,</quote> he mumbles, but you notice that he is careful not to waste a crumb. Meanwhile, you scan the surrounding forest, ever watchful for enemies. For the last hour you have had a growing suspicion that something has been watching you. Your senses detect the presence of a hostile enemy, closing from the east. Now the suspicion has become a sure belief, and the moment Prarg finishes his meal, you suggest that you be on your way as swiftly as possible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you roll across the black stone floor to avoid the creature's initial attack. Your swift reactions save you from its razor claws, but it, too, possesses lightning reflexes. It leaps once more and you barely have enough time to unsheathe your weapon before it lands upon you and slams you to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tarhdemon (polymorphed Nadziran)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shaken but unharmed, you wade out to the boat where Prarg helps you aboard.</p>
- <p><quote>That was too close for comfort,</quote> says Prarg, as he struggles to free the oars and set them in place.</p>
- <p><quote>You can count yourself lucky to have escaped with your life. The first time I navigated these channels I lost three good men in a Gorodon attack. Those beasts are the bane of this accursed place&ellips; yet, t'is true to say, there are other creatures here that are far deadlier.</quote></p>
- <p>Using the oars you soon reach the west bank where, once safely ashore, you encamp on a strip of frozen loam that overlooks a bleak expanse of marsh. Night has fallen and so, too, has the temperature. From the shelter of your upturned boat you cast your experienced eye across the darkening skies and see banks of cloud, heavy with snow, scudding the distant horizon. They are an unwelcome sight, the precursors to a winter storm.</p>
- <p>Prarg volunteers to continue the first watch but, mindful that his need for rest is greater than yours, you insist that he gets some sleep. For four hours you sit and scan the bleak horizon, your mind filled with unanswered questions about the mission and the dangers you have yet to face. While you ponder what awaits you in the near future, you remain watchful and alert, your encounter on the east bank still vivid in your mind. Fortunately, the increasing cold dissuades the Hellswamp's inhabitants from leaving their lairs this night and your watch passes without incident.</p>
- <p>Then the time comes for you to awaken Prarg. With a noticeable lack of enthusiasm he takes his turn while you settle yourself down to catch a few hours of much-needed sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rising to the top of the stairs comes a lumbering hulk with hungry, scarlet eyes. The beast is covered with a vile fur which glistens in the eerie light of the landing, its long sinewy arms are outstretched and in both of its huge hands there are chunks of dagger-like flint. Its distended belly skims the floor as it stalks closer, and a brown gluey saliva runs freely from its fanged lower jaw. With the rockfall preventing a hasty escape, you draw your weapon and steel yourself for combat with this nightmarish creature.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Stalker</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The few war-dogs that manage to survive the combat now slink away into the forest like frightened pups. Prarg, elated by the victory, is confident that they will not be back this night. You are not so sure, and as you turn to go back to the boat to catch some sleep, you warn him to remain vigilant whilst he is on guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shield takes form and the arrow shatters against it. You hear gasps of astonishment from the Drakkarim, and more than one utters the word <foreign xml:lang="x-giak"><quote>Ziran</quote></foreign>&emdash;the Giak for <quote>Wizard</quote>. As you disappear rapidly downstream, you see the renegades scrambling up the muddy bank in a desperate attempt to get away, having convinced themselves that they have just encountered a powerful sorcerer!</p>
- <p>Your voyage continues without further incident until, later in the afternoon, you catch sight of a town on the horizon. You check your <a idref="map">map</a> and discover it to be Konozod, a fortified Drakkarim stronghold. As the river carries you closer, you magnify your vision and see that it is built upon the left bank of the Shug. A huge stone bridge spans the river, and beneath this you see that the waterway is blocked by a barrier of chained logs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you wish to allow your boat to drift towards this barrier, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to avoid the barrier, you can put ashore and continue on foot by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An agonizing pain lances through your body and the warm taste of blood fills your mouth. Then the terrible pain gives way to a terrifying numbness For a moment the surrounding forest swims in and out of focus, then darkness engulfs you and you slip into a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and warn Prarg to hold tight as you bear down on a collision course with the three Drakkarim sentries.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If it is 4&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the circular lock with care and sense that it is protected by a powerful magical spell. Any attempt to pick this lock could prove fatal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The deadly bolts come screaming towards you and Captain Prarg with an unnerving accuracy that sends a cold spike of fear coursing down your spine. Impact is imminent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you possess Kai-alchemy <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this rank, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel yourself awakening; all you wish for is to sleep. But your senses warn you that to fall asleep here could prove fatal. You know you must do something, and quickly, if you are to avoid unconsciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you possess some Oede or some Sabito, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you possess neither of these substances, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The journey downstream is swift and easy. The icy river cuts a direct path across the frozen plain before it wends its way through an expanse of low, rolling hills, blackened and scarred by war. Ruined hovels smoulder on the horizon and scores of snow-covered corpses, human and otherwise, lie where they died in a running battle that has swept like wildfire across this land.</p>
- <p>Shortly after midday, you see something in the distance that sets your nerves on edge. It is a group of figures, huddled together on the river bank. You magnify your vision and identify them to be Drakkarim, possibly deserters from Magnaarn's army, who are attempting to catch fish from the river.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you wish to hide in the bottom of the boat and allow the current to carry you past them, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you choose to row with the current, so that you will pass by these enemy soldiers as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and your scouts are taken to a lookout post on the banks of the river where you meet with Baron Maquin, the leader of this mercenary band. He is a tall man, clad from neck to toe in furs that are caked with frost. A battered silver helm hides much of his battle-scarred face, but you can see enough of his distinctly Ilionian features to know at once that he is a brave man, a man of honour. He regards you with a sceptical eye, having never before met a Sommlending lord, let alone one such as you. He questions you at length, and upon hearing your story, you sense that he is greatly impressed. In return he tells you briefly of how he and his men have come to find themselves here.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Baron Maquin, leader of the mercenary band, regards you with a sceptical eye.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="630"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="630"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>This regiment is still loyal to King Sarnac,</quote> he says, proudly, <quote>unlike the cowardly Stornlanders. They have broken their pact and now they fight 'gainst Lencia, alongside the enemy.</quote> The Baron spits at the ground in a show of contempt for these treacherous regiments. <quote>My command has been left here to fight as a rear-guard. Our orders are to ambush any Drakkarim that may try to reach Darke by river. We believe there to be many enemy reinforcements at Konozod and our task is to prevent them from joining with Magnaarn.</quote></p>
- <p>You remind the Baron that you have just come from Konozod and that it is virtually empty. There are no enemy reinforcements there. Respectfully you suggest that he and his men join with you in an attempt to reach Darke, where he could join once more with the Lencian army. He considers your suggestion, and after discussing it with his men, finally he agrees.</p>
- <p><quote>But first,</quote> he says, as he shakes your hand in friendship, <quote>you must summon your men to my humble camp. It will soon be dark and it is much too dangerous to travel this river at night. You could be ambushed!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect262"><link-text>Turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as the coast is clear, you leap from the ditch and sprint through a gap in the log wall. You are within a few yards of the cabin when suddenly you see two Drakkarim on horseback come galloping along a newly-laid forest track which leads to the encampment. You are in danger of being seen by them, so the moment you reach the cabin door you thrust it open and rush in.</p>
- <p>Your sudden entrance startles a Drakkarim sergeant who is secretly sneaking a gulp of wine from his Captain's private stock. The bristle-bearded soldier chokes on his mouthful of ruby-red claret when he hears the door open, but his fear soon turns to anger when he sees it is you, and not his commander, who is standing in the doorway. He spits out the wine and hurls the half-empty bottle at your head. You dodge this missile with ease, but it has served its purpose; it has bought the sergeant the time he needs to unsheathe his heavy-bladed sword. He sneers, and your heart skips a beat when you see him get ready to shout for help. You must silence him quickly or he will alert the entire camp to your presence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn instead to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you wander through the smouldering ruins but discover little that has survived the fire which, at its height, must have transformed this whole town into a blazing inferno. The charred bones and skulls of those who died in the battle are strewn everywhere, and no attempt has been made to gather and bury them. You are examining the twisted remains of an iron axe when suddenly you sense that someone is nearby. You can tell that they are weak and in pain.</p>
- <p>Instinct leads you to the ruins of an inn, and as you enter what was once its front door, you stop to listen. You can hear someone breathing. You detect they are somewhere below ground and you call out to Captain Schera to come quickly.</p>
- <p><quote>What is it?</quote> he says, as he enters the ruined inn.</p>
- <p><quote>There's someone alive here,</quote> you reply. <quote>They're somewhere beneath the floor.</quote></p>
- <p>Schera helps you to lift away some charred beams and you discover a trapdoor. You pull it open and slowly descend a flight of stone steps leading down into a cold, dank cellar. The sound of breathing has stopped but your suspicions are soon confirmed. There is somebody here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197"><link-text>Turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect297-1-foot" idref="sect297-1">
- <p>The most reasonable way to treat the temporary <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> gain is reduce your score at the end of combat <em>only</em> if it is above your original score. Another choice would be to reduce your score at the end of combat unless it would cause your score to fall to zero. The only other option would be to reduce your score regardless which would make the spell pointless.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature utters a spine-chilling shriek as it comes bounding towards you, its sword-like teeth glinting in the wintery sun. You step back and draw your weapon just in time to defend yourself as it makes its first strike.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mawtaw</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to the effects of Mindblast and Psi-surge. If you choose to use Kai-surge, add only 1 point to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-alchemy and have reached the rank of Sun Knight, you may increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point scores by 5 each for the duration of this combat.<a id="sect297-1" idref="sect297-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Heads!</quote> says Prarg.</p>
- <p>You remove your hand to reveal the citadel of Holmgard stamped on the reverse side of the coin.</p>
- <p><quote>Never mind, Prarg,</quote> you say, trying hard not to sound too pleased with the way things have turned out. <quote>The time'll soon pass. Wake me in four hours and I'll take over.</quote></p>
- <p>Prarg gathers his weapons and equipment and, while you are settling yourself down to sleep in the relative comfort of the boat, he climbs to the top of Bear Rock to begin his cold and lonely vigil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You search the dead guard's pockets and belt pouches, and discover the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>2 Arrows</li>
- <li>Ball of String</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Bottle (empty)</li>
- <li>40 Kika (equivalent to 4 Gold Crowns)</li>
- </ul>
- <p>You are about to abandon the body when suddenly you notice something gleaming in the top of its left boot. It is a rod of silver, plain and unmarked, and little more than four inches in length. If you wish to keep this Silver Rod, mark it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in your pocket.</p>
- <p>Satisfied that you have overlooked nothing of worth, you turn your attention to clearing the rockfall which is blocking your escape from this landing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the top of the shaft you look out across the sprawling ruins of Antah. You have emerged upon the flat roof of a mouldering stone crypt situated a few hundred yards from the tower by which you first entered the subterranean temple. A chill wind howls in the surrounding trees and overhead the darkening winter sky warns that night is fast approaching.</p>
- <p>The ruins are completely deserted. The undisturbed blanket of snow which lies thick upon the ground, hiding all tracks, sorely reminds you that fifteen precious days have elapsed since your internment. You think of Captain Prarg and wonder if he is still alive, and an empty feeling gnaws at your stomach when you pause to consider the fate which may have befallen him and his Lencian countrymen now that Magnaarn is in possession of the Doomstone. You are fearful, but you are not entirely without hope. Magnaarn believes you to be dead; it is a belief that you could use to your advantage. After all, by his own admission, did he not say that you were the only threat to his victory?</p>
- <p>Carefully you descend from the roof of the crypt and make your way through the forest to where, two weeks earlier, Magnaarn's Tukodak guards were encamped. In this clearing there are no visible remains of their campsite, but diligently you sift through the ankle-deep snow, looking for clues to where they may have gone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pain knifes along your limbs but you draw upon your inner strength to control and lessen the agony of your wounds. Moments later your horse slams into the sentries and they are trampled mercilessly beneath its hooves. Then you are through the gap in the barricade and racing along the road beyond. You have passed successfully through the inner defensive line, but, as Prarg quickly points out, you have yet to reach the outer defences of Shugkona.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bird suddenly takes fright and flies away, cawing long and loud as hurriedly it disappears towards the northern horizon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328"><link-text>Turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you and Prarg fix the oars in place and row with all your strength, retracing your route all the way back to where the channel first divided. Once here, you slow your boat to a halt and take some time to reconsider your plans.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you decide to navigate the left channel. Rather than run the risk of making any noise, you stow the oars and allow the stinking marsh wind to propel your boat along the channel, albeit at a far slower speed. Gradually you approach the cluster of huts and, as you pass before them, you see eight dwellings, each built of mud-daubed roots and thatched with rotting vegetation. They are empty but they have not been deserted. The shoreline is littered with bones, the remnants of past meals, and nearby is a crude wooden frame on which the skins of a snake and a lizard have been stretched out to dry.</p>
- <p><quote>It's a Ciquali camp,</quote> whispers Prarg nervously, his eyes scouring the surrounding waters for the slightest sign of movement. During your travels you have heard tales about the Ciquali, none of which are favourable. They are the bane of the Hellswamp&emdash;a breed of vicious amphibians, intelligent and cunning, with a taste for human flesh that makes them especially dangerous.</p>
- <p><quote>Our luck's good, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Prarg, as gradually the wind carries you beyond the huts. <quote>The camp's empty&emdash;they must be away hunting. Perhaps it was they who were lying in wait for us along the other passage?</quote></p>
- <p>As soon as you lose sight of the settlement, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along Dakushna's Channel. You are hungry, and unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Sixth Sense tells you that the Green Key you have in your possession will open this door. Quickly you take it from your Backpack, insert it into the lock, and twist it counter-clockwise. There is a faint <onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia>, then the door creaks open to reveal a dark and desolate chamber, its brick walls dripping with evil-smelling grey slime.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the coast is clear, you enter the stables and set a fire in the straw loft. Then, as you are leaving, you open each of the stalls so that the horses will be able to escape once the fire has taken hold. On returning to the alleyway you run to the rear of the armoury building and locate a window through which you can force an entry. It is shuttered and barred, but aided by your innate Kai skills, you are able to break it open. Unfortunately, the noise of your forced entry alerts the two Drakkarim who are on guard inside the building and, as you are squeezing through the narrow window, they attack you with their black-bladed swords.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Armoury Guards</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Pathsmanship, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 3 for the first round of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the opening at the base of the tower, your keen senses detect the repulsive aromas of greasy bristles and dung. At once you know that a war-hog pen lies beyond, and you can also detect that it is now empty.</p>
- <p>With weapon drawn you enter the enclosure, searching for a door that will allow you swift entry to the viewing tower above. There is a door, but it is locked and bolted from the other side. Rather than waste precious minutes trying to open this barred portal, you turn to leave. But as you are crossing the straw-strewn floor of the pen, you are brought to a halt when your eye falls upon an oiled leather whip which hangs from a peg on the wall. (If you wish to take this Boar Whip, record it as a Backpack Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>You leave the pen and rush around the side of the tower in time to see Captain Prarg emerging from the open door. Quickly he descends, sheathing his bloodied sword as he hurries down the steps to meet you.</p>
- <p><quote>That guard'll not be raising any alarms,</quote> he says, cocking his thumb behind him towards the tower door. <quote>And they'll not be finding him too soon, neither.</quote></p>
- <p>You smile knowingly, and commend your guide for the swiftness of his action. Then Prarg points to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels at the edge of town, and suggests you enter Shugkona that way.</p>
- <p><quote>Lead on Captain,</quote> you say, and follow as he hurries off towards the alley's shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your surprise, you discover that the door is unlocked. You push it and it swings open to reveal an empty chamber. You detect a strong presence of evil lurking somewhere nearby and you warn Prarg of what you sense. Cautiously, the two of you leave this chamber by a passage which leads to a flight of black stone steps. You ascend the steps to a domed chamber which is sheathed with dull black stone. Heavy velvet hangings of ebony hue cover most of the walls, and all of the furnishings are upholstered with the same morbid cloth. The sensation of evil is stronger here, so strong that you feel as if you are slowly suffocating.</p>
- <p><quote>It's here&ellips;</quote> you whisper, your hand reaching to your weapon, <quote>the Doomstone. I can feel its presence!</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a movement away to your left and a blast of white-hot energy comes roaring towards your face. You dive aside in time to avoid it, but the bolt rebounds from the steel-hard wall and glances off the back of Prarg's head, knocking him unconscious.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood spell <spell>Sense Evil</spell> you scour the surrounding woodland and a powerful sensation alerts you to danger. It is not an immediate threat, yet you can feel the invisible waves of power which are radiating from its source. The power is strong, too strong to originate from Drakkarim or a hostile forest creature. You focus your senses in the direction of this power and at once you recognize its source: it is the Doomstone of Darke.</p>
- <p><quote>What's wrong, Sire?</quote> says Prarg.</p>
- <p><quote>It's the Doomstone,</quote> you reply quietly. <quote>We're close&ellips; I can feel it.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prarg is understandably happy to accept your offer to stand the first watch. While he settles himself down to sleep in the relative comfort of the boat, you pull your cloak about you and climb to the top of Bear Rock where you begin your lonely vigil. For hours you sit on this windswept boulder, staring out through a curtain of swirling snow at the surrounding timberline. Despite your fatigue you stay alert and your iron discipline pays off when, shortly before midnight, you sense movement at the forest's edge. Then your super-keen Kai senses detect an animal scent on the cold air which you recognize immediately: it is Akataz.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163"><link-text>Turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tracks end at a wooden jetty which juts precariously into the deep, fast-flowing waters of the River Shug. Carefully you examine the ground around this landing area, and aided by your exceptional tracking skills, you make two important discoveries. You deduce that Magnaarn and his troops boarded a barge here and headed downstream towards Darke. Also, you discover that this area was used as a mustering place for a second, far larger unit of troops. Doomwolf droppings and a Giak tooth hint at the identity of these troops, but your suspicions are confirmed when you find a bronze belt buckle which is engraved with the symbol of a fortress and a full moon. It is the symbol of the old Darklord city-fortress of Kagorst. It confirms your fears that Magnaarn has at last persuaded Kagorst to join his cause.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You find a bronze belt buckle engraved with the symbol of a fortress and a full moon.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="618"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="618"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You are tired after your long trek. Rather than attempt to go any further, you decide instead to rest here in one of the empty cabins overnight and continue your journey at dawn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the two dead Tukodaks, sheathe your weapon, then signal to Prarg that the coast is now clear. He emerges from the trees and hurries to your side. He praises your combat skill and then he helps you to hide the bodies of the two slain guards beneath some undergrowth in the surrounding ruins. Before you leave, a quick search of their packs and pockets reveals the following items:</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Enough food for 1 Meal</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>2 Swords</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>4 Arrows</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to take and keep any of the above items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">To enter the unguarded tower, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your mental powers and launch a blast of psychic energy at the three Drakkarim sentries. The effect is instantaneous. They begin to shake uncontrollably and all three drop their spears. Unable to move aside, you trample them into the ground as you gallop through the gap in the barricade and race along the road beyond. You have passed successfully through the inner defensive line, but as Prarg quickly points out, you have yet to reach the outer defences of Shugkona.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With some difficulty you climb out of the water and haul your unconscious companion to safety. His skin is deep violet, he is barely breathing, and his entire body is shaking uncontrollably. Using your healing skills, you transmit some of your body warmth through your hands to his chest and face, and within a few minutes, he comes out of his state of shock as his body returns to its normal temperature. Your prompt action has saved his life, but it has also drained you of 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the current carries you towards the stone bridge, you row against the river's flow in order to slow your final approach to the log barrier. There are Drakkarim on the bridge and the noise of a hard collision would be sure to attract their unwanted attention. The prow grazes the muddy river bank, slowing you further, then the boat comes to an abrupt halt as it bumps against the barrier. Quickly, you leap on to the line of logs and make your way towards the bank as swiftly as the treacherously icy surface will allow.</p>
- <p>A rickety flight of wooden steps ascends from the river to the top of the bridge. You climb them, then you crouch down and take cover behind the stone parapet. From here you observe the town's defences and try to assess how many Drakkarim are stationed within this stronghold. The town itself comprises a sorry collection of battle-damaged buildings, ringed by a perimeter wall of logs which is shored up in many places. Several long and bitter battles have been fought here over the past year, and everywhere you look the vivid scars of war are plain to see.</p>
- <p>A rutted road crosses the bridge and leads directly to the town gates. You observe Drakkarim on guard at the bridge, and at the gate, yet you sense something is wrong. The town is strangely quiet and it appears to be weakly protected; the Drakkarim garrison is few in number, and those that you have seen so far appear to be either young, old, or walking wounded.</p>
- <p>Night is beginning to draw in. The Drakkarim are lighting the torches which line the perimeter wall, and a change of guard is taking place at the main gate. A wagon laden with straw crosses the bridge and pulls to a halt nearby. Wearily the driver gets down from his seat, curses his aching back, then wanders off towards a nearby hovel, one of barely a dozen that are still standing outside the town's wall. While he is gone, you take the opportunity to climb into the cart and hide yourself beneath the foul-smelling straw. Soon you hear the driver's gruff voice and you feel the cart sway as he climbs back into his seat. There is the <onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia> of a whip and, with a jolt, the cart trundles off towards the main gates.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222"><link-text>Turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the open archway comes a Lencian soldier attired in the parade tunic and breeches of a Court Captain. He is unusually tall, but his most striking feature is his close-set eyes which are bright above his thin, hawk-like nose and bushy black moustache. At once you recognize this officer, for he is Captain Prarg. During the fighting at Cetza you and he led Prince Graygor's reserves in a decisive action that helped save the Eruan Guards and turn the tide of the battle in your favour.</p>
- <p><quote>Well met, Sire!</quote> he says, with a smile, <quote>'Tis an honour to have been chosen to guide you on your noble quest.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The scout places two fingers to his lips and gives a long, warbling whistle. The sound makes the mercenaries turn and stare in your direction, and you hear one of them whistle twice in reply. Your scout then calls out a request that you be allowed to enter their camp. There is a long pause, then a heavily-accented voice replies:</p>
- <p><quote>Show yourselves.</quote></p>
- <p>Relief that you are human, and not Drakkarim, is displayed clearly on the faces of these League-landers when the four of you stand up and walk towards their camp. You receive a warm welcome from these soldiers of fortune, and two of them offer to escort you to their leader&emdash;Baron Maquin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294"><link-text>Turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You abandon the shelter of the bridge and work your way slowly along the ice-filled ditch to a point directly in front of the tower. Here you settle to observe the Drakkarim guards who are dutifully keeping watch over the eastern approaches to the town. All you can see of them is their brutal faces peering out of the horizontal slit which runs the full circumference of the tower. After a while, three of the four Drakkarim leave the tower by a staircase at the side. Only one remains, and you decide that now would be the best time to make your move, before the three return or before their replacements show up for duty.</p>
- <p>Prarg insists that he go first; he has crossed here once before and he knows a safe way through. The ground looks clear but there are concealed pits out there just waiting to snare the careless or unwary. You nod your agreement and, as soon as the guard turns his face away from the observation slit, Prarg makes his run. Crouching low, he half-runs, half-scampers across the clearing, keeping low and zig-zagging as he weaves a safe path through the pits. It takes him thirty seconds to reach the base of the tower, then he slips around the side and takes cover beneath the steps before beckoning you to follow.</p>
- <p>You take a deep breath then launch yourself out into the open. With heart pounding you run towards the tower, following in Prarg's footsteps which are clearly visible in the snow. You are halfway across when suddenly the guard's face reappears at the observation slit. You pray your camouflage skills will keep you hidden for a few seconds longer, but then you see something that shakes your confidence. The guard raises a curious square of glass in front of his eyes, and at once you sense it possesses magical properties.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery and you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, add 1 to the number you have chosen. If you have the Discipline of Assimilance, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If your total score is now 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If it is 4&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From out of the grey-green gloom comes a lumbering hulk that fixes you with its hungry scarlet eyes. The beast is covered with a vile fur which glistens in the eerie light of the tunnel. Its long sinewy arms are outstretched and in both of its huge hands there are chunks of dagger-like flint. Its distended belly skims the walkway as it stalks closer, and a brown gluey saliva runs freely from its fanged lower jaw. With the grill at your back preventing your escape, you draw your weapon and get ready to defend yourself from this nightmarish creature.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Stalker</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skills you command your tired horse to descend the hill and cross the bridge. Hopefully its tracks will lead your pursuers in the wrong direction and enable you to get away. As the horse wanders off, you beckon Prarg to follow you into the dense forest. Your instincts and Pathsmanship skills set you on a north-westerly tack, the direction you hope will lead eventually to Magnaarn and the hidden Temple of Antah.</p>
- <p>You have covered two miles when suddenly you hear a sound which stops you both dead in your tracks. It is a terrible, bestial growl.</p>
- <p><quote>There!</quote> gasps Prarg, and you spin round to see a terrifying creature come slinking from out of the undergrowth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The site has been expertly cleared and very little evidence remains that Magnaarn and his bodyguard were here, yet you do manage to uncover some tracks frozen beneath the snow. They were made by men and horses, and are a little over a week old. Satisfied with your discovery, you leave the campsite and follow the tracks westward.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you possess Animal Mastery and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (or higher), <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn instead to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your second Arrow kills the Death Knight instantly. You shoulder your Bow and run down the corridor, with Prarg close on your heels, and soon you reach a junction where you are forced to choose a direction, left or right. You call upon your Kai skills and immediately you sense a strong presence of evil lurking at the end of the right-hand passage. You focus on the source of this evil and determine that it is the Doomstone. You tell Prarg and together you advance along the passage until you reach a closed door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually, over the next few hours, the level of the water rises until it covers most of the surrounding mud flats. Here and there, clumps of wire-hard briar stand isolated on tiny islands which are almost flush with the surface. They are the only features to break the dreary landscape.</p>
- <p>As sunset approaches, so the wind dies until there is barely enough breeze to ruffle the canvas. Stoically Prarg gathers in the mainsail and you ship the oars, then together you pull back against the scum-darkened water and continue on your way. You are watchful of the current, for this will indicate your approach to the River Gourneni, but the water is so thick with silt and slime that neither of you can be certain of its direction, or even of its existence.</p>
- <p>It is almost dark when finally you reach the outflow of the Gourneni. It is a sluggish confluence, jammed with deadwood and silt-banks which obstruct most of its fifty-yard width. You both realize that an attempt to navigate this river at night would be foolish, and so you decide to set up camp at the river's edge and wait until first light before continuing.</p>
- <p>Using your Kai skills of detection, you scan the two river banks to determine which would be a safer place to set up camp. Unfortunately you sense little difference between the two; neither east nor west looks very inviting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you decide to set up camp on the west bank, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you choose to set up camp on the east bank, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect323-1-foot" idref="sect323-1">
- <p>This bonus is applicable when the missiles are aimed at you&emdash;not when you're aiming them at someone or something else. Note the word <quote>against</quote> and that the list includes bolts and darts which are not normally used by Lone Wolf.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You uncover the sack and sift through its contents. Gleaming in the dim light you see a mass of coins, silver plates and candlesticks, jewellery and all manner of precious and semi-precious stones. There are countless gold teeth, pulled no doubt from the mouths of fallen Lencian knights, and scores of trinkets and other mementoes taken from less noble corpses. One item you sense possesses magical properties. You pull it out and, on closer inspection, you discover it to be a polished Jadin Amulet which is fixed to a gold neckchain.</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep this Jadin Amulet, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you wear around your neck. It adds +1 to your score should you be instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> to check against normal missiles (arrows, bolts, darts, etc.).<a id="sect323-1" idref="sect323-1-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <p>Having replaced the sack in its hole, you draw your cloak about you and approach the main gates. The guards are busy admitting the latest batch of prisoners and, helped by your camouflage skills, they do not give you a second glance as you stride confidently into the town.</p>
- <p>Once inside, you head towards a dark, deserted alleyway which is sandwiched between a stables and an armoury. From here you observe the compound with a growing anger and pity for those trapped inside. Stirred by their plight, you vow to help these starving men. Patiently you watch and wait for the patrols to pass, then you scurry towards the compound fence to make contact with the Lencians.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the warehouse through a broken window and soon find a hiding place among hundreds of rolls of canvas that are being stored on the ground floor. Periodically, Drakkarim enter and search the length and breadth of this sprawling building, but they fail to detect you.</p>
- <p>While you are hiding from their search parties, you consider your companion's plight and grow ever more fearful for his safety. You are also very anxious that, under torture, he will reveal your identity and the reason why you have come to this town. You are determined not to allow this to happen and so, as midnight approaches, you slip away from your hiding place and make your way stealthily towards the Shugkona Gaol.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260"><link-text>Turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Come, Prarg,</quote> you say urgently, <quote>we must hurry from here. I sense more traps nearby.</quote></p>
- <p>Obediently, the Captain follows as you make your way speedily along the passageway towards a distant torchlit chamber. Upon reaching this chamber you are brought skidding to a halt by an unexpected sight.</p>
- <p>The room is constructed entirely of polished black rock. Revealed in the torchlight is a throne of rough-hewn marble, where rests the skeletal remains of a warrior clad in mouldering furs. Bare bone gleams dully through a clinging mass of muscle and sinew, now shrunken to an iron-hard texture, and upon its skull there is perched a helm of solid gold. Set into the face of this helm is an emerald as large as your fist.</p>
- <p>Prarg approaches the throne, tempted by the magnificent emerald, but he halts the moment you warn him that the helm is protected by a magical trap. You sense that a powerful spell of warding encircles the throne; to touch the crown would activate the spell, thereby unleashing a blast of destructive energy. The thought of being blown to atoms serves to dampen Prarg's curiosity and sheepishly he returns to your side. You give the booby-trapped throne a wide berth and leave the chamber by a smooth-walled tunnel in the far wall. But you have taken no more than a dozen steps when a chill of premonition runs like a trickle of icy cold water down your spine. You halt and reach for your weapon. Then a loud voice booms out, destroying the silence.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Lone Wolf. Welcome to your tomb!</quote></p>
- <p>Instinctively you know that it is the voice of Warlord Magnaarn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you try to tear yourself free from the creature's grip. You draw your weapon and strike at the tentacles which ensnare your legs, but the skin which sheathes them is like iron and you can barely cause a scratch. Then you sense that the creature's most vulnerable spot is its single eye and, with renewed vigour, you dive down and attack it relentlessly.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Desperately trying to draw yourself away from the creature's grip, you strike at the tentacles which ensnare your legs.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="609"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="609"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Gartoth</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prarg awakens you shortly before dawn. It has been snowing during the night and the boat is covered with a thin layer of crisp white flakes. As you open your eyes, the cold air brings you swiftly to your senses, its sudden unexpected chill making you shiver violently. However, this discomfort is momentary; your Magnakai skill of Nexus rights the imbalance and a comfortable warmth returns to your frozen limbs.</p>
- <p>Carefully you step from beneath the boat and cast your eyes across the marsh which borders the river, now completely white. Tracks in the snow betray the nocturnal passage of several swamp creatures, but none are too large as to cause you undue concern. Prarg unpacks some provisions and, after a breakfast of dried meat, potatoes, ale and blue cheese, you prepare the boat for your long voyage north up the Gourneni river to Bear Rock.</p>
- <p>By mid-morning the snow has returned and your progress is soon hampered by a whipping wind that blows persistently in your faces. Shielded by your innate skills, the sub-zero temperatures cause you little concern as tirelessly you work the oars. But Prarg is not so fortunate and, as the hours pass, the cold saps his strength until he is unable to continue rowing. Single-handedly you take over the oars whilst your guide, swathed in blankets, mans the rudder and acts as your pilot through the narrower sections of the Gourneni.</p>
- <choice idref="sect107"><link-text>Turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Baron Maquin and Captain Schera are anxious to move their men away from the river bank. Their military training has taught them to avoid placing their troops with their backs to an impassable body of water, for if the enemy were to attack, there would be no way to escape. You understand their concern and, using your ability to magnify your vision, you scan the landscape in search of a more advantageous position. A mile away, to the north-west, you see a tiny hamlet. It appears to be deserted and you suggest to the two officers that they move their men there. Briefly they discuss your suggestion and both agree that it would be a safer position.</p>
- <p>The order to move is passed along the ranks and the men prepare to leave the boats and go forward. You take the lead, together with the Baron and the Captain, but you have barely covered a quarter of the distance to the hamlet when your tracking senses warn you that a threat is approaching from the north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you wish to insist they return to the river, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you wish to hurry towards the hamlet, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before the door closed you caught sight of a map spread out across a trestle table in the centre of the cabin. You whisper to Prarg what you have seen, then you tell him to wait for you here while you try to get a closer look at that map. It may contain a clue to Magnaarn's whereabouts.</p>
- <p>Slowly you work your way across the snowy ground towards the ditch which encircles the camp. Your camouflage skills keep you from being seen by the Drakkarim sentries and you are able to reach the cover of this shallow, ice-filled trench with little difficulty. While you wait here for the chance to make a dash for the cabin, you notice two points of entry: the main door and a side window.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you wish to enter the cabin by the door, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you choose to enter through the side window, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Breathless from the fight, you step away from the slain beast and wipe its foul blood from your weapon before sheathing it in your belt. A distant howl echoes along the tunnel, a chilling cry that warns you that the creature you have just defeated was not the only one of its kind.</p>
- <p>Fearful of staying a moment longer, you turn around and hurry along the tunnel. Before long you find yourself in a section of this underground labyrinth which has suffered greatly during the recent rockfalls. Many fissures have opened up the stone floor and shattered the walls, but you take these obstacles in your stride and soon arrive at a ruined staircase which ascends to a landing. Here you are confronted by the corpse of a Drakkarim guard. It is slumped beside a mound of rubble which is blocking the stairs to the next level above. A quick examination of the dead body reveals that both arms are broken. Injured and trapped here by the rockfall, it appears that this guard eventually died of thirst.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you wish to search the body further, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you wish to attempt to clear away the rubble that is blocking the stairs, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your mastery, you will the creature to cease its mental attack. It hesitates, but not for long. Its instincts quickly overcome your psychic commands and, with a terrifying howl, it leaps forward and attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your index finger at the trio of Drakkarim. A surge of crackling energy gushes from your hand and explodes in their midst, scattering them like rag dolls. Their comrades flee the wagon and, without slowing, you gallop through the gap in the barricade with barely inches to spare and race along the road beyond. You have passed successfully through the inner defensive line, but as Prarg quickly points out, you have yet to reach the outer defences of Shugkona.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You exit this chamber by the archway and discover yet another flight of stairs awaiting you. At first you bemoan the thought of another long and weary climb, but then you detect something which quickly changes your mind. You can smell clean, fresh air descending this stairwell.</p>
- <p>You hurry up the stairs, spurred on by the wintery chill which grows steadily colder as you ascend. You count one hundred steps before you arrive at a small chamber which is heaped with rubble. Its only door is blocked by debris and huge slabs of shattered marble, making an immediate exit impossible. But it is not the door which commands your attention; it is a narrow circular shaft which is set into the middle of the ceiling. It is the source of the cold, wintery draft.</p>
- <p>Expectantly, you step closer and investigate this shaft. For the most part it is dark, but you can see glimmers of grey daylight far above, and you can hear the whistling of the wind. But you can also hear another sound, one that is quite unexpected. It is a buzzing, insectile noise. You focus upon the darkness and suddenly you see that the noise comes from nests of winged insects which are fixed along the inside of the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship and have reached the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the bolts hits you in the back with such force that you are lifted off your feet. There is a fiery flash of pain, then a terrifying numbness engulfs your body. As you crash face first into the swirling foam, you realize to your horror that you cannot move any of your limbs. The bolt has severed your spine and, in the long minutes which follow, slowly you drown in the tide.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here on Battle Isle.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A hundred paces further along the tunnel, you turn a corner and find yourself face-to-face with a ghastly creature. From out of the gloom comes a lumbering hulk with hungry scarlet eyes. This beast is covered with vile fur which glistens in the eerie half-light of the tunnel, and its long sinewy arms are outstretched as if it is sleepwalking. But this beast is not asleep. In both of its huge hands it holds chunks of dagger-like flint which it wields like weapons. Its bloated belly skims the floor as it gathers speed, and a brown gluey saliva runs freely from its fanged lower jaw.</p>
- <p>With a shriek; the creature lunges towards you, flailing at the air with its brace of dagger-flints as it closes in for the kill. You are forced to retreat as it comes rushing towards you at a breathtaking pace.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Tunnel Stalker</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">49</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the unexpected speed and ferocity of its attack, reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score by 3 points for the first round of this combat only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As one, the soldiers draw their weapons and come rushing towards the ground floor entrance to the grain tower. You retreat from the window and look around for a means of escape for already you can hear the first of the enemy climbing the stairs. With fear running cold in your veins you cross to a window on the far side of the tower. Outside, directly below the window, you see a Drakkar lancer sitting astride a warhorse. His lance is sheathed in a tube-like scabbard fixed to the rear of his saddle, and in his hand he holds aloft a heavy-bladed cavalry sabre. He is staring at the onrushing soldiers and is completely unaware that you are barely a few yards away.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you climb on to the window ledge, draw your weapon, and leap on to the unwary lancer below.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If your total score is now 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The guard crashes to the bottom of the trench, screaming&emdash;<quote>Gaz rekenarim! Gaz rekenarim!</quote></p>
- <p>The other Drakkarim are slow to react, and only one manages to snatch up his spear in his defence as you come leaping over the parapet. He thrusts it at your head and you dodge aside just in time to avoid a fatal wound, yet the tip gouges your shoulder: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p><quote>Sarnac and Lencia!</quote> cries Prarg, as side-by-side you land in the trench and strike out at its defenders. Your attack is swift and deadly. In less than five seconds, you have dispatched all four of the Drakkarim trench-troopers who occupy this position, overcoming three of them before they could even unsheathe their swords.</p>
- <p>Keen to maintain your advantage of surprise, you quickly leave the trench and rush across the remaining strip of open ground which separates you from the town's outlying dwellings. Prarg points ahead to an alleyway that lies sandwiched between two burnt-out hovels, and immediately you follow as he hurries towards its shadowy entrance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon forth the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and extend your right arm towards the portal. A tingling sensation runs all the way from your shoulder to the tip of your index finger, culminating in a crackling arc of electrical power that bridges the gap between your hand and the portal's lock.</p>
- <p>The charge slams into the lock, splintering its stone surround and utterly destroying its ancient mechanism. Confidently you move forward and place your shoulder to the portal. One hard push is all that is needed to break the seal of dirt, and slowly it creaks open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You conjure forth the Brotherhood spell of <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and, at once, your right arm is sheathed with rings of glowing, blue fire. Calmly you raise your hand, point your index finger at the leader of the Akataz pack, and with a blink of your eyes you launch a crackling pulse of energy directly at his head. The bolt arcs through the cold air and hits the war-dog squarely between the eyes, sending it tumbling backwards in a flurry of snow to disappear among the trees.</p>
- <p>Instantly the others halt in their tracks, visibly shaken. You sense that the pack is torn now between its desire to satisfy its gnawing hunger and its natural instinct for survival. Eventually the instinct for self-preservation wins out, and one by one the dogs turn and flee for the safety of the Tozaz forest.</p>
- <p>Confident that the Akataz will not be back this night, you return to the boat to catch some sleep while Prarg begins his turn on guard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After several minutes you notice a ledge which juts out from the chasm wall. It is located fifty feet or so directly above the place where you are currently standing. Close to this ledge you see a dark shadow. It marks the entrance to another tunnel, one that hopefully may lead all the way to the surface.</p>
- <p>With renewed optimism, you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and at once you feel gravity losing its grasp. Assisted by this magic, you climb the rough chasm wall with ease and quickly reach the ledge above. Here you cancel the spell before hurrying into the new tunnel in search of a clear route to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shocked by the death of their leader, the few remaining enemy turn tail and flee across the open plain in panic, with the stinging cheers of their foes echoing in their ears.</p>
- <p>Then the cheering is cut short when an ominous noise comes rolling across the plain from the city of Darke. It is a thunderous boom that shakes the very ground on which you stand. You look towards the city and see that the battle is growing ever fiercer. But now there is a new and sinister aspect. Flickerings of magical fire can be seen dancing along battlements, engulfing friend and foe alike. You sense that it is the work of Magnaarn; he and his Nadziranim allies are responsible for this.</p>
- <p>Then, through the smoke of battle, you see a Lencian flag flying proudly amidst the carnage that is taking place on the coastal plain, to the south of the city. Here, King Sarnac's crusaders have turned an enemy flank and are storming its weakened centre. Maquin and Schera see the flag and, encouraged by their own victory, they decide to march at once in support of the crusader's brave attack.</p>
- <p>You wish them both good fortune, for you know the time has come to part company with these brave men. Their destiny awaits them on the field of battle; yours will be found inside the city of Darke itself where, if you are to fulfil your quest, you must confront Warlord Magnaarn. You bid them farewell and watch as they lead their men in a marching column along the river road towards the field of battle. When they are a mile distant, you set off alone across the plain towards the hamlet, which lies en route to the gates of Darke.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a loud <onomatopoeia>bang</onomatopoeia> and a great grey cloud billows from the muzzle of the musket. It startles the horse, but you swiftly control the animal and urge it forwards, out on to the road. In the confusion you make your escape northwards, hidden from the eyes of your pursuing enemy by the acrid cloud of gunpowder smoke.</p>
- <p>Your ears are ringing but otherwise you and Prarg escape unharmed. The mare is strong and sure-footed, and despite the snow, you quickly cover more than eight miles before you encounter something on the road ahead that brings you immediately to a standstill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106"><link-text>Turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With weapons drawn you wait for the boat to strike the frost-covered raft of weeds. An unnatural silence has descended upon the surrounding mire, as if every creature of the Hellswamp were holding its breath in anticipation, waiting for the trap to be sprung. The bow grazes the obstruction and suddenly the silence is torn apart by a gurgling screech. Like sorcery-conjured demons, a dozen ghoulish creatures rise up from the murky depths of the swamp amid a seething froth of bubbles. Swiftly they climb from beneath the weed-raft and slink from hiding places along the bank. Within seconds they have you surrounded.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A dozen ghoulish creatures rise up from the murky depths of the swamp amid a seething froth of bubbles.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="665"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="665"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Ciquali!</quote> growls Prarg, naming these ghoulish foes. He moves forward, sword raised, and lashes out at the first of these dome-headed creatures as it tries to climb aboard. His razor-sharp blade severs its forearm at the wrist, sending a scaly webbed hand spinning into the swamp, trailing green ichor. The beast screams and falls over the side, yet no sooner has it vanished beneath the surface when two more of its kin attempt to haul themselves into the boat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you do not, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you search through the clutter of boxes which lie scattered all around this cabin, and you discover the following which may be of use to you during your mission:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>2 Potions of Laumspur (each restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points)</li>
- <li>Hourglass</li>
- <li>Signet Ring</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>3 Arrows</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Brass Key</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">To continue, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you let go of the oars and throw yourself on the floor of the boat to avoid being hit by the speeding arrow.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Prarg is soon paralysed by the intense cold. He ceases all movement when his body goes into shock and rapidly he disappears beneath the water. You rush to help him, approaching as near to the edge of the hole as you dare, and then you see his face pressed to the underside of the ice, close to where you are standing. His eyes are wide open and a stream of bubbles are trailing from his nose and mouth. You must act quickly if you are to save him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to jump into the gaping hole in the ice and attempt to pull him out, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you decide to attempt to smash another hole in the ice, close to where he is trapped, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With stoic determination you begin the laborious task of clearing away the rock and rubble which fills this stairwell. You are fearful that it may take you several days to reach the next level, and so it comes as a welcome surprise when, after just a few minutes work, you see a gap appearing at the top of the mound. A gust of cold, wintery air wafts through this breach, rekindling your hopes of reaching the surface. Revived by the cold clean air, you attack the rubble with renewed vigour. But then your hopes are shaken when you hear a sinister sound; behind you, something is climbing the stairs to the landing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have reached the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tip of your lance penetrates the Death Knight's armoured breastplate and kills him instantly. The force of the blow is such that it snaps the lance in two and nearly knocks you clean out of your saddle, but you manage to hold tight and quickly you recover. Moments later you reach the platform to see Captain Prarg struggling to break free from his gaolers. He succeeds and he comes running towards you. With a yell he leaps from the platform and lands astride the rump of your horse.</p>
- <p><quote>Go, Lone Wolf, go!</quote> he shouts, excitedly.</p>
- <p>You dig your heels into the horse's flanks and take off through the confused mass of Drakkarim towards an avenue on the north side of the square. Prarg's hands are still tied behind his back and in order to stop himself from falling off the horse, he is forced to hang on to your cloak with his teeth.</p>
- <p>You gallop out of the square and along the northern avenue which is flanked by barracks and hovels. Arrows come whistling from their windows but they are poorly aimed and fly wide of their mark. You glance over your shoulder and see that some Drakkarim horsemen are grouping up at the exit from the square in order to give chase. You urge the horse onwards, and as you speed towards a distant corner, you use your Magnakai skill of Nexus to loosen Prarg's bonds. Minutes later you turn the corner and see the road which leads out of Shugkona. Your spirits rise, but they are quickly dashed when you see that your route of escape is blocked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your slain enemies keel over backwards and splash into the mire, you roll Prarg on to his back then watch as the remaining Ciquali, now leaderless, turn away and disappear as quickly as they had come, slapping back to the cold, dark safety of their hiding places beneath the surface. Silence returns, and for a long moment you stay alert, suspecting trickery, then slowly you relax; they have gone.</p>
- <p>Aided by your healing skills, Prarg makes a speedy recovery from the battering he sustained in combat with the Ciquali chieftain. The boat, too, has survived the attack and you are able to continue without further delay. As soon as you pass the obstruction, you hoist the sail and catch the prevailing wind which propels you northwards along the channel beyond.</p>
- <p>You are hungry after your encounter. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">To continue, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you strike your killing blow, the Nyras Sceptre explodes with a brilliant flash and you are knocked down by the sudden release of energy. For several minutes you lie unconscious on the floor of this wind-swept turret, until you are found and revived by your guide and companion, Captain Prarg. Nothing remains of either Warlord Magnaarn or the Nyras Sceptre; both have been utterly destroyed. Prarg helps you to your feet, and as you look out across the battle-torn landscape, you witness a wondrous event. The Gulf of Lencia is dotted with scores of square-rigged men o' war. They are the ships of the Kasland fleet: at last Lencia's allies have arrived.</p>
- <p>Thanks to your bravery and determination, the power which has so devastated this land is now no more. The destruction of the Nyras Sceptre heralds a turning of the tides of war in the west. The Nadziranim and their armies flee the field of battle and are pursued by the allies all the way back to their strongholds in the north. The remnants of Magnaarn's army are routed and swept out of Nyras, and after many centuries, this country finally returns to its rightful heirs.</p>
- <p>In recognition of your victory over Warlord Magnaarn, King Sarnac of Lencia and Archduke Chalamis of Kasland hold a royal banquet in Vadera in your honour. You are heaped with praise and you receive the thanks and warm congratulations of a grateful populace.</p>
- <p>Well done, Lone Wolf. Once again you have achieved a victory over the forces of darkness and proved yourself to be worthy of the title <quote>Kai Grand Master</quote>. Yet the fight against Evil goes ever on. On your return to your homeland you will be faced with a new and deadly challenge that will test your remarkable skills and unquestionable bravery. The nature of this challenge can be found in the next Grand Master adventure, which is entitled:</p>
- <p><a href="&link.16tlov;"><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite></a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Lands & Territories of the Western Tentarias</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="181" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>, <quote>feted</quote> with <quote>fêted</quote>, <quote>Left-Handed</quote> with <quote>Left-handed</quote>, <quote>Right-Handed</quote> with <quote>Right-handed</quote>, <quote>freestate</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>doomstone</quote> with <quote>Doomstone</quote>, and <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote> that you will find in the front of this book. For ease of use, and for further adventuring, it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote> and <quote> on the last page of this book</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>(ie</quote> with <quote>(i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>, <quote>gods</quote> with <quote>Gods</quote>, and <quote>listed overleaf</quote> with <quote>listed below</quote>. Replaced <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less</quote> with <quote><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less</quote> since it is highly unlikely that your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will ever be reduced to such a low level and later published books also make this change.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>, <quote>(eg,</quote> with <quote>(e.g.</quote>, five occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, two occurrences of <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>, and eight occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>. Inserted the explanation of how to use Gold Crowns. Removed <quote> (see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Amended the text to correctly reflect the +5 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> bonus for Grand Weaponmastery.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote> on the inside back cover of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>. In the example combat, changed Lone Wolf's initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to 27 and corrected the Kai Surge bonus to +8 <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote> and <quote>(e.g. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, Spear etc)</quote> with <quote>(i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear)</quote>. Replaced <quote>etc)</quote> with <quote>etc.)</quote> in the <spell>Halt Missile</spell> section. Added the description of the improvements for Grand Guardian. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) Replaced <quote>tunnel stalker</quote> with <quote>Tunnel Stalker</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) Replaced <quote>potions</quote> with <quote>Potions</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>Pathsmanship, and</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Halt Missile</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>) Replaced <quote>tunnel stalker</quote> with <quote>Tunnel Stalker</quote> and <quote>Kai-alchemy, and</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy and</quote>. Removed <quote> or higher</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>) Replaced <quote>approaching and</quote> with <quote>approaching, and</quote>, <quote>Kai-alchemy, and</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy and</quote>, and <quote>Kai-surge, and</quote> with <quote>Kai-surge and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>raised</quote> with <quote>razed</quote>, <quote>river bank</quote> with <quote>riverbank</quote>, <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>, and <quote>incident and, shortly</quote> with <quote>incident, and shortly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>) Replaced <quote>mawtaw</quote> with <quote>Mawtaw</quote> and <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced <quote>or, failing</quote> with <quote>or failing</quote>, <quote>assauge</quote> with <quote>assuage</quote>, and both occurrences of <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>aimed ready</quote> with <quote>aimed, ready</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>floroa</quote> with <quote>Floroa</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>steps and, as</quote> with <quote>steps, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect37">37</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>crack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>remnants have</quote> with <quote>remnants had</quote> and <quote>seige</quote> with <quote>siege</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect41">41</a>) Replaced <quote>treeline</quote> with <quote>tree-line</quote> and <quote>psi-surge</quote> with <quote>Psi-surge</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect43">43</a>) Replaced <quote>directions and, with</quote> with <quote>directions, and with</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) Replaced <quote>west and</quote> with <quote>west, and</quote>, <quote>Prarg and</quote> with <quote>Prarg, and</quote>, and <quote>Antah and</quote> with <quote>Antah, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>anger and</quote> with <quote>anger, and</quote>, <quote>judging, and</quote> with <quote>judging and</quote>, and <quote>shoulder and, as</quote> with <quote>shoulder, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Removed <quote> (or higher)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote> and <quote>breastplace</quote> with <quote>breastplate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect65">65</a>) Replaced <quote>argument, then</quote> with <quote>argument. Then</quote>, <quote>open and</quote> with <quote>open, and</quote>, and <quote>recently-cleared</quote> with <quote>recently cleared</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect70">70</a>) Replaced <quote>now and</quote> with <quote>now, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced <quote>horizon and</quote> with <quote>horizon, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>ahead, to</quote> with <quote>ahead to</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Replaced <quote>upright you</quote> with <quote>upright, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>) Replaced <quote>escape and</quote> with <quote>escape, and</quote>, <quote>spy and, as</quote> with <quote>spy, and as</quote>, and <quote>platform, and, as</quote> with <quote>platform, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) Replaced <quote><onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia> and, almost</quote> with <quote><onomatopoeia>crack</onomatopoeia>, and almost</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>watch and, hungry</quote> with <quote>watch, and hungry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect85">85</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai alchemy</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Invisible Shield</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>trench but</quote> with <quote>trench, but</quote> and <quote>edge and</quote> with <quote>edge, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>tunnel stalker</quote> with <quote>Tunnel Stalker</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect93">93</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>nexus</quote> with <quote>Nexus</quote> and <quote>infra-vision</quote> with <quote>infravision</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>open but</quote> with <quote>open, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>) Replaced <quote>otherwise, and</quote> with <quote>otherwise and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Sense Evil</quote> and replaced <quote>ahead and</quote> with <quote>ahead, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>) Replaced <quote>themsleves</quote> with <quote>themselves</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>feet and, using</quote> with <quote>feet, and using</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect114">114</a>) Replaced <quote>consumate</quote> with <quote>consummate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect115">115</a>) Replaced <quote>animal control</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) Removed <quote> (or higher)</quote>. Replaced <quote>Kai-alchemy, and</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>distented</quote> with <quote>distended</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect126">126</a>) Replaced <quote>Its ends</quote> with <quote>It ends</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>curing</quote> with <quote>Curing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai-shield</quote> with <quote>Kai-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Removed the quotation marks and dashes around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>semi-circular</quote> with <quote>semicircular</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>infra-vision</quote> with <quote>infravision</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>yourself are</quote> with <quote>you are</quote>, <quote>abroad</quote> with <quote>aboard</quote>, <quote>seiges</quote> with <quote>sieges</quote>, and <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>) Replaced <quote>can and, using</quote> with <quote>can, and using</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>) Replaced <quote>succcess</quote> with <quote>success</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) Replaced <quote>eyes and, for</quote> with <quote>eyes, and for</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>) Removed the quotation marks and dashes around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>barnlike</quote> with <quote>barn-like</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>) Replaced <quote>hard-worn</quote> with <quote>hard-won</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai Alchemy</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy</quote>. Changed the choice that requires the rank of Sun Knight to lead to <a idref="sect17">Section 17</a> instead of <a idref="sect86">Section 86</a>, and changed the other choice to lead to <a idref="sect86">Section 86</a> instead of <a idref="sect17">Section 17</a>. <a idref="sect17">Section 17</a> assumes that you've reached the rank of Sun Knight. Replaced <quote>Kai-alchemy, and</quote> and <quote>Kai-alchemy and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect160">160</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect170">170</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>) Replaced <quote>curing</quote> with <quote>Curing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>, <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>. Moved <quote>(Remember to erase three Arrows from your quiver.)</quote> above the list of choices.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>soldiers and</quote> with <quote>soldiers, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>death cry</quote> with <quote>death-cry</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>curing</quote> with <quote>Curing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) Replaced <quote>Weaponmastery, and</quote> with <quote>Weaponmastery and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>) Removed <quote> or higher</quote>. Inserted <quote>, or have yet to reach this level of Kai training</quote> into the last choice.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>portlcullis</quote> with <quote>portcullis</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Changed the first choice to lead to <a idref="sect304">Section 304</a> instead of <a idref="sect30">Section 30</a> (cf. <a idref="sect109">Section 109</a>). If you cannot solve the combination lock in <a idref="sect89">Section 89</a>, you are lead to <a idref="sect30">Section 30</a> which is its correct role instead of here, in <a idref="sect212">Section 212</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>mindforce</quote> with <quote>Mindforce</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) Replaced <quote>still and</quote> with <quote>still, and</quote>, <quote>upon an upright</quote> with <quote>up onto</quote> and <quote>yet, as</quote> with <quote>yet as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow but, fortunately</quote> with <quote>arrow, but fortunately</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>woodsmoke</quote> with <quote>wood smoke</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) Replaced <quote>ramshakle</quote> with <quote>ramshackle</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Replaced <quote>crusader's</quote> with <quote>crusaders'</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) Replaced <quote>killing bow</quote> with <quote>killing blow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Strength</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) Replaced <quote>less-enchanting</quote> with <quote>less enchanting</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect262">262</a>) Replaced <quote>pin-points</quote> with <quote>pinpoints</quote> and <quote>bank and, as</quote> with <quote>bank, and as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>inate</quote> with <quote>innate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>quiver</quote> with <quote>Quiver</quote>. Replaced <quote>block and, at</quote> with <quote>block, and at</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>battle frenzy</quote> with <quote>battle-frenzy</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect278">278</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect282">282</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>) Replaced <quote>distented</quote> with <quote>distended</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>) Replaced <quote>Weaponmastery, and</quote> with <quote>Weaponmastery and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>length and, upon</quote> with <quote>length, and upon</quote>, <quote>suggestion and, after</quote> with <quote>suggestion, and after</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai-alchemy, and</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy and</quote>. Removed <quote> (or higher)</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>) Replaced <quote>Charts</quote> with <quote>chart</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> and <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>inate</quote> with <quote>innate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Removed the quotation marks and dashes around <quote>Sense Evil</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>) Replaced <quote>area and, aided</quote> with <quote>area, and aided</quote> and <quote>larger, unit</quote> with <quote>larger unit</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>) Replaced <quote>but, as</quote> with <quote>but as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>) Replaced <quote>face and, within</quote> with <quote>face, and within</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect320">320</a>) Replaced <quote>Mastery, and</quote> with <quote>Mastery and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect321">321</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Replaced <quote>momentoes</quote> with <quote>mementoes</quote>, <quote>jadin amulet</quote> with <quote>Jadin Amulet</quote>, <quote>less-noble</quote> with <quote>less noble</quote>, and <quote>etc</quote> with <quote>etc.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>inate</quote> with <quote>innate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>. Replaced <quote>but, as</quote> with <quote>but as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>) Replaced <quote>Pathsmanship, and</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Removed the quotation marks and dashes around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>. Replaced <quote>glowing blue-fire</quote> with <quote>glowing, blue fire</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>) Removed the quotation marks and dashes around <quote>Levitation</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>potions</quote> with <quote>Potions</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai-alchemy, and</quote> with <quote>Kai-alchemy and</quote>. Removed <quote> or higher</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect349">349</a>) Replaced <quote>is routed</quote> with <quote>are routed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced <quote>Nyras and, after</quote> with <quote>Nyras, and after</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>) Inserted a zero in a blank spot that appeared in the original printing. The zero appeared in the edition printed in the US.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="crsumary">Combat Rules Summary</a>) Replaced <quote>of chart</quote> with <quote>of the chart</quote>, <quote>to random</quote> with <quote>to the random</quote> and <quote>to 0</quote> with <quote>0 or below</quote>. Replaced <quote>to Combat Results Tables</quote> with <quote>to the Combat Results Table</quote>. Replaced <quote>cross reference</quote> with <quote>cross-reference</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far&ellips;</a>) The Drakkarim land of Nyras has been referred to as <quote>Nyraz</quote> in previous publications. We have left it as it stands in this book due to its consistent use here and under the assumption that the author intended this name change.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6-12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13-20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect5">5</a>) This section represents the correct answer to the dragon door lock.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) You may take <em>one</em> handful of the Floroa Fungi.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) This section represents the correct answer to the octagonal door lock.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) It is at your discretion whether or not to apply these bonuses cumulatively. It seems that the bonuses are used non-cumulatively (i.e. a Sun Knight would add 2, not 3).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) This section is unreachable and superfluous since it is equivalent to <a idref="sect349">Section 349</a> and <a idref="sect185">Section 185</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>) The most reasonable way to treat the temporary <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> gain is reduce your score at the end of combat <em>only</em> if it is above your original score. Another choice would be to reduce your score at the end of combat unless it would cause your score to fall to zero. The only other option would be to reduce your score regardless which would make the spell pointless.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>) Reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 15 only if it is currently above that level.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>) This section is unreachable and superfluous since it is equivalent to <a idref="sect19">Section 19</a> but less complete.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect221">221</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect238">238</a>) The weapon bonuses are cumulative (e.g. the Dagger of Vashna which is a Dagger and a Special Item confers a bonus of +1: 2 - 1).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) The most reasonable way to treat the temporary <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> gain is reduce your score at the end of combat <em>only</em> if it is above your original score. Another choice would be to reduce your score at the end of combat unless it would cause your score to fall to zero. The only other option would be to reduce your score regardless which would make the spell pointless.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) This bonus is applicable when the missiles are aimed at you&emdash;not when you're aiming them at someone or something else. Note the word <quote>against</quote> and that the list includes bolts and darts which are not normally used by Lone Wolf.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect5">Section 5</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect20">Section 20</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect42">Section 42</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect65">Section 65</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect75">Section 75</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect102">Section 102</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect118">Section 118</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect150">Section 150</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect154">Section 154</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect177">Section 177</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect200">Section 200</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect230">Section 230</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect248">Section 248</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect262">Section 262</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect272">Section 272</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect281">Section 281</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect294">Section 294</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect310">Section 310</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect326">Section 326</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect343">Section 343</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">Lands & Territories of the Western Tentarias</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Only the first occurrence of each secondary illustration is cited.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect1">Section 1</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect2">Section 2</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect23">Section 23</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect25">Section 25</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect36">Section 36</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect45">Section 45</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect53">Section 53</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect85">Section 85</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect89">Section 89</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect100">Section 100</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect119">Section 119</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect125">Section 125</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect140">Section 140</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect221">Section 221</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
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-</gamebook>
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-Added Illustration Transcription credits that went missing since
-The Masters of Darkness
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-Revision 1.6 2005/03/11 19:24:30 jonathan.blake
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-Revision 1.5 2005/03/10 18:32:33 jonathan.blake
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-//////////////////////////
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-////// To Do //////
-
--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>The Legacy of Vashna</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>3</month><day>12</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf&emdash;Kai Grand Master of Sommerlund. The spirit of Vashna, greatest of all the Darklords, is imprisoned deep within the fathomless reaches of the Maakengorge. For centuries, servants of darkness have tried to summon him to do their bidding but always they have failed&ellips; until now!</p>
- <p>In <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>, you must locate and defeat the Darklord's minions before they can complete the resurrection of their master&emdash;the most powerful Lord of Evil your world has ever known. Will you succeed in your quest? Or will you and your fragile world perish in the wrath of Vashna?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Margaret Foden</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jason Smith</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Action Charts</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Michael Davies (Sections 71&endash;140)<br/>Jeff Dougan (Frontmatter)<br/>Markus Eisensehr (Sections 141&endash;210)<br/>Brett Taylor (Sections 1&endash;70, 211&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br/>Ingo Klöcker<br/>Chris Lundgren<br/>Neil McGrory<br/>Timothy Pederick<br/>Simon Osborne<br/>Keith Sheldon<br/>Jennifer Sigman</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Laurence Leach<br/>Jeremy Welker</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of your élite warrior caste.</p>
- <p>It is the year MS 5077 and twenty-seven years have passed since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar, the King of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain&emdash;the Darklands&emdash;and caused the destruction of their leader, Archlord Gnaag, and the seat of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, most notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war, which allowed the Freeland armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Skilfully their commanders exploited the chaos and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
- <p>For seven years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction, the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a Second Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well under way. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possess latent Kai skills and show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the Monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai Lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai Monastery and organized the training of the Second Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded and, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose to their newfound responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the Monastery, a hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power which you had recovered during your quest for the Magnakai. It was here, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, that you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors&emdash;Banedon and Rimoah&emdash;you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master Disciplines, and grasp the fundamental secrets of Left-handed and Old Kingdom magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now, for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
- <p>At this time many changes were occurring beyond the borders of Sommerlund. In the regions to the northeast of Magador and the Maakengorge, the Elder Magi of Dessi and the Herbwardens of Bautar were working together in an effort to restore the dusty volcanic wasteland to its former fertile state. It was the first tentative step towards the reclamation of all the Darklands. However, their progress was painfully slow, and both parties were resigned to the fact that their efforts to undo the damage caused by the Darklords would take centuries to complete.</p>
- <p>Following the destruction of the Darklords of Helgedad, the Giaks, the most numerous of all Gnaag's troops, fled into the Darklands and sought refuge in the gigantic city-fortresses of Nadgazad, Aarnak, Gournen, Akagazad and Kaag. Within each of these hellish strongholds, fierce fighting broke out as remnants of the Xaghash (lesser Darklords) and the Nadziranim (evil practitioners of Right-handed magic who once aided individual Darklord masters) fought for control. It is widely believed that by the time the Elder Magi and the Herbwardens reach the walls of these strongholds they will encounter no resistance; the occupants will have long since brought about their own extinction.</p>
- <p>Elsewhere, throughout Northern Magnamund, peace reigns victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms rejoice in the knowledge that the age of the Darklords has finally come to an end. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of Naar come in many guises and there are those in Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
- <p>Already your newfound skills have been tested against Naar's agents and you have, on each such occasion, acquitted yourself admirably. But your continuing victories against his minions have enraged the Dark God, and rarely has his lust for vengeance been greater than it is at present. Recently, Lord Rimoah has counselled you to be extra vigilant, for he fears that Naar is getting ready to strike at Sommerlund anew. The Elder Magi have received warnings from President Kadharian of Magador that something strange is taking place in the north of his country, in the mountainous territory which borders upon the Maakengorge. Freak storms and unseasonal weather have swept this remote region, and the night skies over Lake Vorndarol have, for several weeks now, been illuminated by eerie, inexplicable lights.</p>
- <p>Lord Rimoah fears that Naar is plotting to revive Vashna, the greatest of all the Darklords, whose spirit is trapped deep within the fathomless reaches of the Maakengorge. It has remained there, in uneasy entombment, ever since the day the Darklord was defeated in battle by King Ulnar I of Sommerlund. Vashna's body, along with those of his loathsome troops, was hurled into the abyss, hopefully never to be seen again. Legend has it that the Darklord's body was destroyed but his spirit still lives on. He is said to be awaiting the day when he shall be made to rise, at the head of a vast army of undead warriors, and set loose to wreak his revenge upon Sommerlund and the house of Ulnar.</p>
- <p><quote>If it is Naar's intention to resurrect Vashna and his army from the depths of the Maakengorge,</quote> said an anxious Lord Rimoah, as you and he discussed the situation in the secure privacy of your vault below the Kai Monastery, <quote>then no free realm upon the face of Magnamund will be safe. It has always been Sommerlund's misfortune that Ulnar's victory over Vashna was never total. I have always feared that the legacy of the Maakengorge would one day awaken and confront us&ellips; and I fear, unless we act swiftly, that that day is about to dawn.</quote></p>
- <p>For several hours, you and your learned advisor deliberated what could be done to prevent such a catastrophe. You decided that the exact nature of the threat had first to be determined if you were to combat it effectively. You were confident that your Grand Master Disciplines would enable you to unravel this mystery quickly, and so you volunteered to journey to northern Magador and investigate the strange incidents at first hand. After all, there could be a perfectly innocent explanation for them.</p>
- <p><quote>Let us hope it is so, Grand Master,</quote> said Lord Rimoah, earnestly, <quote>but, nevertheless, do not forget what could confront you there. I shall pray to Kai and Ishir to watch over and guide you on the journey ahead, Lone Wolf, and bring you home, swiftly, safely and victoriously.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For more than six years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1&endash;15), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 16. These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses obtained upon completion of Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1&endash;5) or Magnakai (Books 6&endash;12) adventures.<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over from the Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1&endash;5) and Magnakai (Books 6&endash;12) series to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Books 13-onwards):<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Dagger of Vashna</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Helshezag</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6&endash;12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13&endash;20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature's sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell, and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the Gods Kai and Ishir go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<a id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title>Magi-magic</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros&emdash;the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and artifacts.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the fourth of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.17tdoi;">Book 17</a>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline(s), your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <a href="&link.17tdoi;"><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>.</a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off on your long journey to Magador, you take with you a <a idref="map">map of the Maakengorge and surrounding territories</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1&endash;15), you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you can carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take four items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six Arrows: record them on your weapons list.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Item)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the four items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a quiver and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>The currency of Magador is the Gold Crown. These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35−30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="imprvdsc-1-foot" idref="imprvdsc-1">
- <p>The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery, you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian's bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell>&emdash;This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell>&emdash;This causes the tip of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this Discipline are able to wield two-handed weapons (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature's body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Discipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Halt Missile</spell>&emdash;This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. Arrows, axes, crossbow bolts etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2&endash;3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Strength</spell>&emdash;By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.<a id="imprvdsc-1" idref="imprvdsc-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunlord">
- <meta><title>Sun Lord</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Lord (7 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, i.e. they can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-blast&emdash;a pulse of intense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in one attack. A Kai Sun Lord using Kai-blast determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a <quote>0</quote> = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted. However, use of a Kai-blast will reduce a Sun Lord's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surfaces, e.g. water, mud, lava, and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Penetrate</spell>&emdash;This increases the penetrative energy of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</li>
- <li><spell>Energy Grasp</spell>&emdash;This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell>, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Grand Master Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master's Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Northern Magador, which borders upon the Maakengorge, is a notoriously wild and treacherous region. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for you can expect little help from the outlaws and fell creatures who dwell in this area.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will encounter during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all. If you discover any items, be selective in what you choose to keep.</p>
- <p>Pick your four Grand Master Disciplines with care, for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the mission, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you venture into the unknown.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect1-1-foot" idref="sect1-1">
- <p>Note this Scroll as a Special Item that doesn't take up any space on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hours leading up to your departure from the Kai Monastery are spent in the company of your able advisor, Lord Rimoah. Having discussed the mission at great length, you busy yourself now with the practical preparations for your long journey to Magador. He gives you a Scroll which contains a written invitation from President Kadharian to attend his senate to <quote>discuss trade between Sommerlund and Magador</quote>.<a id="sect1-1" idref="sect1-1-foot" class="footnote" /> It will provide a cover for you should the need arise to justify your journey. Also, in the interests of secrecy, you decide it best to discard your formal Kai robes in favour of less conspicuous garments, and you choose instead to wear the simple clothes of a guildsman&emdash;woollen breeches, leather tunic, and a cloak. Dressed thus, and aided by your innate Kai skills of invisibility, you feel confident you will be able to travel the road to Helgor, the Magadorian capital, without drawing undue attention to yourself or your purpose.</p>
- <p>By horse, the journey to Helgor could be expected to take five weeks. Your initial thought had been to send word to your friend, Guildmaster Banedon, requesting that he allow you use of his magical skyship, <cite>Skyrider</cite>. However, on this occasion you will have to forego the speedy comfort of his wondrous craft, for Banedon is using it himself on a quest to the distant land of Bhanar in southern Magnamund, and he is not expected to return to Sommerlund before the year's end.</p>
- <p>Your second choice was also to prove unsuitable. Having resigned yourself to a long journey on horseback, you immediately sent an order to the monastery stables for your horse, Storm, to be saddled and made ready. This fine Slovarian stallion had been a gift to you from Elector Manatine of Palmyrion, in gratitude for the crucial part you played in the victory over the evil Cener Druids of Ruel. His strength, intelligence, and indomitable spirit had reminded you so much of your old Kai tutor&emdash;Storm Hawk&emdash;that you chose to name the horse Storm in his memory. But, as Rimoah quickly pointed out, such a magnificent horse would be sure to attract suspicion, especially if it was ridden by what appeared to be a humble guildsman. And so, albeit reluctantly, you had the stables prepare you another horse, a strong but less exceptional mount called Bracer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105"><link-text>Turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An ugly, one-eyed mongrel is standing in front of the inn, barking defiantly at the first-floor window through which you are observing the Vakovarians. You curse it under your breath and mentally you command it to go away, using your innate Kai skill of Animal Kinship. The hound ceases its infernal yapping and runs off, whimpering pathetically, but its noise has already attracted the unwanted attention of some brigands who are looting the ruins nearby. They surround and enter the ground floor of the inn, eager to discover what it was that made the dog run away so abruptly.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If have the Grand Master Discipline of Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you slay the first two of these strange creatures, their bodies dissolve into a swirling cloud of steamy vapour. Now, upon the death of the third beast, the vapours unite and expand with breathtaking speed until the basalt island and the entire fiery plain beyond are engulfed by a thickening grey fog.</p>
- <p>You walk through this sea of mist for what seems like an eternity until your senses detect that something is circling high above you. At first you suspect that more of the golden-winged creatures have come hunting for you, but then you detect that it is something completely different. There is only one creature, and you sense that it is using a highly-developed psychic probe in order to seek you out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you possess Grand Nexus and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the bolts hits your Backpack. The force of the impact lifts you off your feet and sends you tumbling backwards across the floor. (Erase three items from your Backpack List and reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by 2 points.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the cover of a dense pine copse and quickly dismount. Having secured Bracer's reins to a tree, you move to the edge of the copse to try to catch a glimpse of your attackers. You have no difficulty seeing them: a dozen brigands, armed with crossbows and swords, are rushing through the undergrowth towards your hiding place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect6-1-foot" idref="sect6-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the crystal dais grid in <a idref="sect164">Section 164</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you correctly complete the sequence, a deep hum resonates from inside the upper tier, and slowly it opens to reveal a hexagonal crystal plinth with a circular hole at its centre.<a id="sect6-1" idref="sect6-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Your Kai senses inform you that by inserting the tip of the Deathstaff into the hole, you will cause the Shadow Gate beneath the great arch to close.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="128"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="128"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Trembling with fear and exhilaration, you raise the Deathstaff above your head and bring it down with one mighty thrust, driving it deep into the hole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive over the mounds of charred timbers, aiming to land in the cobblestoned street outside the hut, but the bolt hits the building whilst you are in mid-air and the force of the concussion sends you twisting away in another direction.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Huntmastery <em>and</em> Assimilance, add another 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden to within five miles of the hamlet when you are forced to leave the trail and take cover. Ahead, you see a group of Vakovarian bandits encamped on a bridge which carries the trail across a fast-flowing stream. Rather than risk a confrontation, you follow this tributary of the River Storn a mile downstream until you happen upon a shallow bend where the water is fordable on horseback. You cross here, make a wide detour, and then return to the trail a mile beyond the Vakovarian's encampment.</p>
- <p>The trail gradually descends towards the burnt and derelict hovels of Vorn, clustered in squalid disarray around a greystone quay. Vakovarian bandits occupy the ruined hamlet and you decide it wise to leave the trail in case they have posted a lookout. A copse of stunted firs offers you a good hiding place for your horse. You tether him here, then gather some grasses and roots for him to eat while you are away scouting the hamlet.</p>
- <p>You have no difficulty entering Vorn unseen. From the first-floor ruins of a burnt-out inn on the outskirts of the hamlet you make a careful observation of the Vakovarians. They seem to be systematically looting the ruins and transporting their ill-gotten booty to a fishing boat which is moored at the quay. You are watching this boat closely when suddenly your concentration is broken by the sound of a yapping dog.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With weapon in hand, you climb out of the window. You are expecting the archer to attack you the moment you appear, but the balcony is deserted: he has disappeared. Then your keen eyes catch a glimpse of movement on the roof of a building opposite. It is the archer. He has leapt the narrow street from the rail of the balcony and he is now making his escape across the rooftops of the north quarter.</p>
- <p>With the grace of a springing panther, you leap from the balcony and land on the roof opposite. Without breaking your stride, you set off after the fleeing assassin and pursue him to the edge of a flat-topped warehouse at the end of Tavern Lane. Here a plank of wood had been laid down to span the gap of ten metres to the rooftop opposite. The man makes a sure-footed escape across the plank, then kicks it away to prevent you from following him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you are determined to follow him and wish to try to leap across the gap, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you do not wish to make the jump, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect10-1-foot" idref="sect10-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to Shamath's riddle in <a idref="sect189">Section 189</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon hearing you utter the correct solution to her riddle, Shamath recoils in horror.<a id="sect10-1" idref="sect10-1-foot" class="footnote" /> You have beaten her challenge and the humiliation she feels cuts her as sharply as any sword.</p>
- <p>She begins to whimper. Then, quite suddenly, a geyser of flame shoots from the floor and engulfs her wormlike body. You watch with disbelief as the tendrilled flesh blackens and flakes away in a matter of seconds, to leave nothing but a coiled heap of glowing cinders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261"><link-text>Turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you approach the circle of boulders, leading your frozen horse by the reins. Through a gap in the boulders you see a pack of eight ridge-backed Jackals feeding on the carcass of a Durncrag Scavenger, a vulture-like bird of prey. They are engrossed with their meal until they suddenly detect the scent of their most favoured food: live horsemeat.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>With a frenzied howl the wild Jackals abandon the feathery carcass and come streaming through the gap in the boulders.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With a frenzied howl the wild Jackals abandon the feathery carcass and come streaming through the gap in the boulders, drawn by the scent of your horse. They seem to know that he is in a weakened state, and this fuels their fury. Your horse takes fright and tries to pull away, his hooves flailing the air perilously close to your skull, and as the first of the Jackals makes its attack, you find yourself struggling to hold on to the reins with one hand and fight them off with the other.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vorndarol Jackals</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess Grand Weaponmastery and have reached the rank of Sun Knight or higher, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">You may evade combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first light of dawn brings with it a dramatic change in the weather. The storm has ended and the sky is now bright and clear, but on the distant horizon you can still see flashes of lightning and hear thunder rumbling in the mountains.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>After drying out your equipment and tending to the minor cuts and abrasions that Bracer sustained last night, you climb into the saddle and set off along the muddy track, most of which you discover has been washed away by the flood. The damp earth is steaming in the unusual heat of the morning sun, and the air crackles with an eerie residue of static electricity.</p>
- <p>You continue your ride through the hills without stopping until, shortly after midday, you come to a derelict hovel which stands at the edge of a marshy peat bog. Your Kai senses inform you that there is somebody inside and, spurred on by curiosity, you resolve to find out who they are. You dismount and leave Bracer to feed on the marsh grass while you go forward to investigate the hovel on foot. You are six metres away from its rotting wooden door when suddenly it creaks open and you see an old man standing in the doorway. He is smiling at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you have ever visited the city of Varetta, the city of Tahou, or a hut on the Ruanon Pike in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you have never visited any of these places, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man makes a slow, sure-footed descent to within three metres of where you are standing, during which time his weapon's sights never leave your chest. You can tell immediately that he is a skilled hunter and, judging by his furs and his beautifully crafted crossbow, he is a successful one too.</p>
- <p>Your muscles are tense and coiled like springs, ready to propel you out of the path of his crossbow bolt in case he fires. But then he says something which makes you realize that, maybe, he has no intentions of killing you after all.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the brigand leader stealthily, without making a sound. As you draw closer, you hear him cursing the incompetence of his men and you see him beating his clenched fist on the trunk of the fallen bough in frustration. Then, without warning, he turns around to retrieve something from a satchel lying on the ground nearby and his keen eyes catch sight of you creeping up on him. In an instant his sword is in his hand. You rush forward and launch your attack but you have lost the element of surprise. As he parries your first blow, he screams for his men to come to his aid.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vakovarian Brigand Captain</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">33</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect312">You may evade this combat after two rounds by <link-text>turning to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you win and the fight lasts five rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you win and the fight lasts six rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai mastery, you attempt to stop the creature dead in its tracks with a sharp psychic command. The beast shudders, its instincts confused, but it possesses an unusually strong will, and you can sense that it may overcome your mental suggestion.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every Grand Master rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Defender, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flick your heel against Bracer's flank and urge him towards the dingy street. Here, only a few houses show any light, and this through the knotholes and cracks of their bolted shutters. At length you come to a junction illuminated by a solitary street lantern. You are trying to decide which way to turn when your eye is distracted by something moving in the shadows. From out of a darkened doorway steps a pale-skinned woman wrapped in a black velvet cloak, edged with scarlet silk.</p>
- <p><quote>&thinspace;'Tis no night to be out ridin',</quote> she says, her voice syrupy and seductive, <quote>not 'less you be lookin' for company.</quote></p>
- <p>You tell her you have no need for her company and turn your horse to leave, but suddenly you find yourself transfixed by the woman's eyes and unable to move. They seem unnaturally vibrant, as if filled with a flickering green fire; she is using magic in an attempt to charm you. Instinctively, you draw on your innate psychic Kai powers to try to dispel the charm, but her magic is unusually strong.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make a slow descent to the clearing, trusting to your camouflage skills to keep you hidden as you move from one boulder to the next. You are less than ten metres from the carcass when you hear the faint scrape of leather on stone. You turn to look and a man's voice growls, <quote>Don't move!</quote></p>
- <p>Standing between two boulders away to your left is a grey-bearded man, clad in furs and clutching a loaded crossbow. The weapon is pointing at your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you possess the Discipline of Telegnosis, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you do not possess this skill, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the plateau the trail descends steeply towards a thick pine wood. Milky-white pools of water punctuate this section of the track, some deceptively deep, making the descent difficult and tiring. By the time you reach the wood your horse is in need of rest.</p>
- <p>You dismount to take the weight off his back and, as you gather his reins together, you notice that the flap of your Backpack is undone. On checking the contents you discover that one of your possessions is missing. (Erase the second item on your list of Backpack Items. If you have only one item on your list, erase that one instead.)</p>
- <p>As soon as your horse is rested, you remount him and set off through the pine wood, heading east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The three phantoms swoop down into the trees as if to pursue the fleeing cats, but then they break off their attack and come speeding once more towards the mouth of the cave.</p>
- <p>You sense a hostile psychic presence about them, an evil mind-energy which is growing stronger as they draw nearer. You use your Magnakai skills to erect a Psi-screen to protect your mind, but they launch a sudden, massive bolt of their energy which buckles your hasty shield: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205"><link-text>Turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you step through the archway you feel an electrifying jolt run through your body, and snake-like tendrils of blue-white energy writhe from the rim of the arch to the hilt of Vashna's Dagger. A gasp of astonishment arises from the acolytes, audible even above the howling wind.</p>
- <p><quote>We have an intruder in our midst,</quote> screams Cadak, levelling his wizard's staff at you accusingly. You fight the paralysing effect of the current and tug the dagger free of its scabbard. For a moment the current weakens as it is absorbed and neutralized by the dark blade's unholy energy, but then the tip of Cadak's staff ignites with a crimson flame and the current intensifies anew, numbing your limbs with its insidious effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect21-1-foot" idref="sect21-1">
- <p>If you have already spent all of your money, you have a choice: you may either give her an item of comparable or greater value, or you may simply disregard this cost.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the open doorway, and the hubbub of laughter and conversation dies momentarily as all eyes turn to stare in your direction. They consider you for a few moments, then the chatter and noise begin anew and the eyes return to other matters. After descending a flight of steps to the sunken floor of the taproom, you make your way through the noisy crowd to the beer-soaked counter. A husky serving wench thuds a pewter tankard down on the bar before you and fills it with frothing ale.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A husky serving wench thuds a pewter tankard down on the bar before you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="633"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="633"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>First one's on the 'ouse,</quote> she says, with a snarl, <quote>the rest y' pays for, understand?</quote> You nod your reply and, as you sip the watery brew, you take stock of the inn's villainous clientele. They are not a pretty crowd. The Crooked Sage is a tavern with an ill reputation, even in the brawling turmoil of Helgor's north quarter. The city guard never patrol here; a weekly donation to the guard captain guarantees that they are always somewhere else. Order, and what passes for law, is kept by Chegga, the owner of the inn, and his two brutish sons&emdash;Zhola and Gorgan.</p>
- <p>You finish your ale and the serving wench returns to refill your tankard.</p>
- <p><quote>That'll be one Gold Crown,</quote> she says, thrusting out a calloused palm. You place the crown on the bar and, as she goes to pick it up, you take hold of her wrist to prevent her from moving away.<a id="sect21-1" idref="sect21-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p><quote>Where's Smudd? Is he here tonight?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>Over there,</quote> she growls, pointing to a shadowy alcove at the rear of the taproom, <quote>now let go o' me or I'll call Chegga.</quote></p>
- <p>Calmly you release her, take up your ale, and walk slowly towards the place where Smudd is seated. He is in the company of a giggling bar-girl and does not notice that you are standing beside him until you thump your tankard down on his table. The sound startles him and immediately he reaches for his sword.</p>
- <p>He has a desperate look about him which reminds you of a cornered rat. If you are to avoid a confrontation, you must do or say something to assuage his fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you wish to offer him some money, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect108">If you choose to offer him one of your Backpack Items, <link-text>turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elder's suspicion swiftly turns to anger. He grabs your robe and pulls it open, revealing your leather tunic and breeches. Recognizing them at once to be Sommlending in origin, he gasps with shock as he guesses at your true identity.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cave offers adequate protection but you are plagued by a feeling of unease. A familiar tingling sensation runs up and down your spine; it is your Sixth Sense, warning you that danger lurks close by. You stand in the mouth of the cave and scan the surrounding storm-swept hills, but when you are unable to detect any obvious threat, you shrug it off and step back into the dry. Fatigue, and this strange weather, must have begun to affect your senses.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, for every level you have attained above the rank of Kai Grand Guardian add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slip out of the line and enter the hut unseen. Inside you discover the following weapons:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>4 Arrows</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>3 Daggers</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Having satisfied your curiosity, you leave the hut and rejoin the procession as it leaves the settlement.</p>
- <choice idref="sect218"><link-text>Turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brigand captain screams aloud and clutches at the fatal wound you have dealt him. His eyes glaze over, and as he falls dead at your feet, you see some of his men emerging from the surrounding pines. Rather than fight them, you decide it better to escape whilst you still can. You take to your heels, pausing only to snatch up the captain's satchel as you leave. The brigands give chase, but they soon lose you among the dense pines and give up the pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The few acolytes who survive the combat count themselves lucky as they turn and flee for their lives. The effects of the Deathstaff upon those who fell to your blows are gruesome to look upon. Each one is drained of all blood, leaving nothing but an untidy heap of loose skin and bones. You have won the fight but not without cost. In addition to any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost during the combat, you now lose a further 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, due to the vampirish effects of the Deathstaff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is still above 0, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You let fly your shaft but it is poorly aimed. It thuds harmlessly into the window frame as the archer escapes on to the balcony.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to pursue the man, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to let him go, you can leave the inn by the front door by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your refusal to pass through the arch is looked on with grave suspicion. An Elder steps forward and pushes you, telling you to affirm your vows <quote>like a true believer</quote>. When you resist, he draws a dagger and curses your insubordination. Instinctively, you grab the Elder by the wrist and disarm him, but he screams in anger and Cadak responds to his cry. A gout of dark red electrical energy leaps from his staff and connects with your spine, paralysing you from neck to toe: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you have survived this wounding, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually, the clouds knit together and shut out the sun, and once again you are plunged into the teeth of the storm. You hear a low scream carried on the wind and turn to see Cadak, blazing with anger, come striding down from his crystal dais, wielding his staff like a fiery lance. He approaches to within twenty paces and bangs the butt down twice upon the rain-drenched earth. On the second strike, an umbrella of spectral light explodes overhead and falls to earth to encompass you both.</p>
- <p><quote>Nothing can stop the arrival of Shamath!</quote> screams Cadak, his eyes bright with madness. <quote>You have delayed her, Lone Wolf, that is all. You have not stopped her. Soon she will set foot upon the soil of Magnamund and Lord Vashna will have his revenge!</quote></p>
- <p>You scan the flickering walls of this rainbow-coloured prison of light, searching for a chink in its armour through which you can escape.</p>
- <p><quote>You will not escape this time!</quote> shouts Cadak, as if he has been reading your mind. <quote>Not while I am alive!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you wish to attack Arch Druid Cadak using the Deathstaff, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you wish to attack Cadak with a Bow and Arrow, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to do none of the above, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense a hostile psychic presence about them, an evil mind-energy which is growing stronger as they draw nearer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess Kai-surge, and have reached the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand perfectly still and concentrate on attaining the trance state needed in order to effect your transition from consciousness to suspended animation. You feel as if you are drifting off to sleep, although you have entered a state in which you appear, to any outside observer, to be dead.</p>
- <p>High above you, the unseen creature probes the fog for evidence of life-force. Unable to detect any, it trails away to another part of this hellish plane in search of prey with which to feed its young. You hear the winged beast departing and you bring yourself out of the death-trance, awaking with a start.</p>
- <choice idref="sect233"><link-text>Turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shoreline trail winds away from Lake Vorndarol and slowly ascends to a chalky plateau which is covered with dense scrub. Small groups of ragged-looking birds are perched on this foliage, feeding on its brightly coloured blooms. As you pass by, you reach out and grab a handful of these yellow flowers which smell sickly-sweet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to taste these blooms, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you decide to discard them and continue your ride, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The alley is pitch dark but this causes you little difficulty. Using your Magnakai skill of Huntmastery, you can pick out the way ahead with ease. Your horse is not so gifted, but he trusts to your guiding hand to avoid the stinking debris and broken glass which lie strewn across the cobblestones. You are nearing a street at the alley's end when you hear the click of a door latch. You halt, and from an archway to your left you see two men emerge. One is a wiry figure, partially bald; the other, a swarthy-faced villain with ragged ears and greasy blond hair. Daggers gleam dully in their hands as they advance towards you with murder in their eyes.</p>
- <p>Silently you unsheathe your weapon. A few moments later, when you re-sheathe it, it is slick with the blood of these two footpads. A search of their pockets nets you six Gold Crowns and enough food for one Meal. (Remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.)</p>
- <p>Anxious to leave, you remount your horse and turn him to face the street at the end of the alley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16"><link-text>Turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you sidestep the oncoming wave of automatons and leave them hacking uselessly at the air with their swords. The Demoness is putting on an armoured breastplate of varnished black steel, and she is kneeling to allow her attendants to fasten the straps. They are clumsy, and she is distracted and does not see you approaching dangerously close to the dais and the Deathstaff until it is too late. You grab the staff's cold, metallic haft and instantly you feel the terrible power that is locked within its core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you possess Helshezag&emdash;the sword of Darklord Kraagenskûl, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bloodied and breathless from the exertion of combat, you break off the fight and take to your heels. The remaining brigands give chase, but they soon lose you among the dense pines and call off their pursuit. The area is alive with bandits and you are forced to flee northwards, away from the place where you left Bracer tethered to a tree. You are anxious for his safety and mindful that there are still many miles to be covered before you reach Lake Vorndarol, but you dare not turn back for him. Then you hear something that makes you halt in your tracks: it is the sound of a horse whinnying.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect36-1-foot" idref="sect36-1">
- <p>The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your defensive skill of Mindblend to protect and keep hidden your psyche from the attacking horde. The Vortexi are psychic creatures who actively seek out their prey by the strength of their mind waves. Your Discipline disrupts this homing process and many, in the final few hundred yards of their dive, fail to lock on to your location and waste their attack.</p>
- <p>But there are still those among the horde who sense accurately where you are. When they attack, you are forced to defend yourself vigorously.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. If you possess the Sommerswerd, restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score.<a id="sect36-1" idref="sect36-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In your desperation to prevent the Elder from sounding the alarm, you lash out with your clenched fist and punch him squarely on the jaw.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You survive the fall to the street without breaking any bones, but you are knocked unconscious when your head strikes the wet cobblestones. For more than an hour you lie there until you regain consciousness. Bruised, bloodied, and with a sorely aching head, you are further dismayed to discover that while you have been lying in the street, you have also been robbed.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). The number you have picked is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost as a result of the fall. It is also equal to the number of Gold Crowns which have been stolen from your belt pouch, and the number of items which have gone missing from your Backpack (adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly).</p>
- <p>Cursing your luck and the thieves of this foul city, you wearily retrace your steps back to the stables of the Crooked Sage in order to collect your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your Magnakai Curing skills to staunch the flow of blood pouring from your gashed neck, and to mend torn muscle, but it takes several minutes before you feel the blood flow and the pain subsiding. Strength is beginning to return to your aching limbs when half a dozen loutish brigands come rushing across the rocks towards you, brandishing swords and daggers in their hands. You pull yourself wearily to your feet and unsheathe your weapon as they rush at you, stabbing and hacking with their gleaming blades.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vakovarian Brigands</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to your wound and the speed of their attack, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the first three rounds of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59">You may evade combat after six rounds by <link-text>turning to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point at the onrushing acolytes. A tingling sensation runs down the length of your arm which culminates with a bolt of blue-white energy. It shoots from your index finger and explodes between them, killing them instantly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry up the path and join the end of the procession. Moments later, two Elders go rushing past you on either side, screaming and cursing in an attempt to rally those acolytes who are fleeing down the track in confusion. You allow yourself a wry smile as you adjust the hood on your robe and raise your torch on high.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sheathe your weapon, run to the edge of the warehouse, and launch yourself towards the roof of the building opposite.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery <em>and</em> have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect310">If it is 4&endash;7, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elder's probe breaks through your mind shield and he suddenly realizes that you are an intruder. He pulls at your robe and tears it open, revealing your leather tunic and breeches. Recognizing them at once to be Sommlending in origin, he gasps with shock as he guesses at your true identity.</p>
- <p><quote>Seize him!</quote> he bellows, and a score of acolytes turn around and run forward to obey the command. You draw your weapon and fight them with breathtaking skill and valour, but eventually you are overcome by their numbers. By the time they have disarmed you and pinned you to the rocky ground, more than thirty of them lie slain or seriously injured in a heaped circle around where you lie.</p>
- <p>You stare back defiantly at the ring of grim torchlit faces that loom over you. Then the face of the Elder comes into view and he sneers with disdain. He places the tip of a glowing wand to your forehead and suddenly there is an explosion of white light. Sadly for you, it is the last sensation you will ever experience.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here, on the trail to the Maakengorge.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are standing inside a mountain of ice. A dim, blue vista stretches away in every direction, and here the light appears bent and fractured by the myriad frozen facets of the water. You are encased yet you can still move; you are able to stride forwards through the seemingly solid walls as if you are moving through air.</p>
- <p>Confidently you walk through the strange and terrible beauty of this crystal world, striding on towards the distant dim, twinkling light that first drew you to the mountains. Slowly the icy vastness begins to change and you see new wonders. There are treasures&emdash;veins of gold, raw gemstones, chests of coins, pearls, and rubies. And there are graves and lost tombs, where corpses watch your passing with burning eyes. Their ghastly stares bleed the warmth from your body and leave you shivering with psychic shock: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>At length you pass beyond the ice and emerge into the shadowy recesses of a vast cavern. Here you discover the source of the light, and in its dim glow, you witness a scene that makes you tremble with fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gwynian opens his envelope and removes a time-yellowed parchment which he spreads upon the smooth stone table: it is a map of northern Magador. He points to Lake Vorndarol and tells you that the eye of the strange storms which have swept this region has been calculated to be within a few miles of the lake's eastern shore, close to the Maakengorge. The hamlet of Vorn, or what is left of it, is located on the southern shore, near to a tributary of the River Storn. He counsels you to be on your guard at all times and, to help you succeed, he gives you an amulet of his own.</p>
- <p><quote>Wear this, Grand Master,</quote> he says as he places the corded platinum disc around your neck. <quote>It will keep you safe from some of the perils that may await you at the Maakengorge.</quote></p>
- <p>(Record this Platinum Amulet, which you wear on a cord around your neck, as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You need not discard another item in its favour if you are already carrying the maximum number permissible.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect297"><link-text>Turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have destroyed the power of the Vortexi horde. They shrink and fade, and their faint, wispy remains are whipped up and dispersed by the winds of the raging storm. For a few moments there is a break in the roiling clouds and a few rays of sunlight burst through to bathe you in a warm, yellow glow. This warmth greatly invigorates your body and your mind: restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to its original level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">To continue, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the far corner of this hovel are a man and a woman. They are huddled close together, wide-eyed and shivering with fear. Their once-fine clothes are tattered and caked with mud, and in their midst you see that they are cradling an infant who is clearly sick with fever. You lower your weapon and offer them an assurance that you mean them no harm but, even though you can tell that they understand your words, they still look at you with terror in their eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you possess some food and wish to offer it to them, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you do not have any food, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature roars with pain as your Arrow clips its shoulder. Unfortunately, it is just a flesh wound and it does not stop the beast from advancing. You shoulder your Bow and draw your weapon, bringing your horse about with your knees as you get ready to face the beast. But the instant he sees the creature, he panics and rears up on his hind legs, neighing with fright, his hooves scrabbling frantically at the air. You bring him under control using your innate Kai skills, but in doing so your attention is diverted momentarily from the attacking beast as it moves in and swipes at you with its clawed paw.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The creature roars with pain as your Arrow clips its shoulder.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="576"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="576"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Black Corvayl</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 10 for the first round of this fight only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On closer examination you discover that one side of the amulet is covered by a detailed engraving which depicts a sinister scene. It portrays the rising up of a monstrous creature from the depths of a great gorge, flanked on all sides by a horde of skeletal warriors. At once you recognize it to be a portrayal of Darklord Vashna and his minions, arising from the depths of the Maakengorge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dreadful gaze of Shamath falls upon you and your blood runs cold. She points a black-gloved finger at your hiding place and speaks a thunderous phrase in the Dark Tongue that rings like metallic thunder throughout the vaulted cavern. Then, slowly, she raises her other hand and levels it beside the first. A crackling mass of electrical energy explodes into being, arcing between her outstretched palms. She flicks her massive wrists and the sparking coils of power come writhing towards you. Before you can dodge them, they swirl around and encircle your body, imprisoning you in a cage of living energy.</p>
- <p>Shamath throws back her head and the floor shudders rhythmically beneath the weight of her laughter. You peer through the gaps in the swirling force field and see that her attendants are now rushing towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you possess the Dagger of Vashna, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect179">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are left stunned and smouldering by the impact of the lightning ball. Drunkenly, you stagger to your feet and use your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to extinguish those parts of your cloak and tunic ignited by the blast. Then you draw the Sommerswerd and examine the hilt, but to your amazement, there is no sign of any damage whatsoever.</p>
- <p>Your terrified horse has halted at the river's edge and you call to him, using your natural Kai skills to calm and control his fear. He responds at once and returns to collect you. Swiftly you climb back into the saddle and gallop away along the river trail, anxious to put distance between you and this deadly storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly they flicker and disappear altogether from view. Frantically, you scan the brooding sky for some sign of where the creatures have gone, but it is not until you use your psychic abilities that you detect them.</p>
- <p>With your eyes closed you can picture them in your mind's eye. You see them circling their lair, then they break away and come swooping down to attack you.</p>
- <p>You draw your weapon and detect that an aura of protection is sheathing it from the extreme temperatures of this domain. Then a hideous shriek splits the air, and you find yourself fighting the urge to open your eyes as the first of the beasts dives upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect276">You may evade this combat after six rounds by <link-text>turning to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master. I am Gwynian of Varetta,</quote> says the grey-haired old man, in a clear voice which belies his age. <quote>Come and talk with me a while. Your purpose is known to me and I have something which will help your quest. Come, do not be afraid. I am a friend.</quote></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You are shocked that he knows your true identity, but your Kai senses confirm that he is no threat to your safety. He speaks the truth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect54-1-foot" idref="sect54-1">
- <p>There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With loathing in your heart, you advance upon your despised enemy, but he weaves his hands before his face and his image fades. He is using a spell of invisibility, yet it does not keep him entirely hidden: you can still see the outline of his staff and his body flickering as he moves against the background wall of light.<a id="sect54-1" idref="sect54-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <combat><enemy>Arch Druid Cadak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You show the Runic Disc and immediately the Elder's temper cools. He recognizes it to be the mark of the Guild of Rhem, the most feared brotherhood of assassins in all of northern Magnamund. He is aware that some guild assassins have been employed as agents to carry out missions for the acolytes, and he assumes at once that you are such an agent.</p>
- <p>He backs away a few paces, bows his head, and leaves to attend to other matters at the bow of the boat. Those seated around you have now become uncomfortably curious. To avoid their attentions, you get up and move to the stern where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You push your way through the jostling crowd and stumble out into the street. As you turn towards the stables to go and retrieve your horse, your eagle-eyes catch a glimpse of movement on a second storey balcony. It is the archer you saw a few minutes ago, the man in black who fled from the gallery.</p>
- <p>With bated breath you watch as he climbs on to the balcony rail and leaps across the narrow street on to the roof of the building opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Net</spell> and point your right hand at the snarling Demoness. A fluid gush of sticky strands shoot from your fingers and ensnare her legs, buying you the few precious seconds you need in order to reach the dais.</p>
- <p>You wrench the Deathstaff from the lower tier and sag beneath its unnatural weight. In the same moment, the Demoness bursts free of the sticky net and screams with unholy anger, the noise lifting you bodily and sending you skidding across the floor.</p>
- <p>Desperately, you fight to maintain your grip on the Deathstaff as the furious Shamath comes striding towards you. The deafening shriek of her voice rings once more in your ears as you clutch the staff to your chest and take a running leap into the dark oblivion of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the Sommerswerd and a halo of golden light engulfs its god-crafted blade. The dim, shadowy cavern is flooded with its goodly glow and the attendants of the Demoness Shamath waver before it. The hilt is warm in your hands and a strange feeling of miraculous ecstasy floods up your arms and courses through your body. You no longer feel as if you are wielding the sword; you are acting in concert with it. Restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect85">To continue, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bloodied and breathless from the exertion of combat, you break off the fight and take to your heels. The remaining brigands give chase, but they soon lose you among the boulders and undergrowth and are forced to call off their pursuit. The area is alive with bandits, and you have to flee northwards, away from the copse where you left Bracer tethered. You are anxious for his safety and mindful that there are still many miles to be covered before you reach Lake Vorndarol, but you dare not turn back for him. Then you hear something that makes you halt in your tracks: it is the sound of a horse whinnying.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For countless minutes you hurtle into a whirling abyss of darkness and howling gales, torn by freezing winds that cut to the marrow despite your Magnakai protections. Then, as if waking from a dream, the sensation of falling abruptly ceases and you find yourself standing on a plateau of black volcanic rock, cratered and split by rivers of blazing lava. You take a tentative step forwards and feel the ground sag beneath your feet. The thin crust of cooled lava wrinkles and tears, and a jet of flickering yellow flame shoots upwards to engulf your legs.</p>
- <p>Your Nexus skills are sufficiently developed to protect you from the flames and hellish temperature, but you are amazed that your boots and clothing have not ignited. Then you sense that your entirety is being protected by a field of energy radiating from the Platinum Amulet given you by Gwynian the Sage. Silently you thank him for his gift, for you suspect now that even your Kai skills would be hard-pressed to keep you safe in this alien domain.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Suddenly, a trio of horny-skinned creatures emerge from the dark hollow.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="594"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="594"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With difficulty you cross the semi-molten terrain and reach an island of blue-grey basalt rock, strewn with cubes of obsidian and jet. At the island's centre you discover a huge, untidy pile of cubes which make a crude temple. There is a yawning hollow at its base and, as you draw closer, you sense something is lurking there. Suddenly, a trio of horny-skinned creatures emerge from the dark hollow and take to the air on wings that glimmer like burnished gold. You watch them ascend, but you have difficulty following their flight when their bodies begin to flicker in and out of existence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your ascent into the foothills is slowed by the difficult terrain. Thousands of huge granite boulders litter the hillside, forcing the trail to zigzag constantly on its way towards a wooded peak, less than five kilometres distant. The weather turns bitterly cold as you make the climb and, although you are protected by your innate ability of Nexus, your horse is not so fortunate. It takes you over two hours to reach the wooded peak, but you are rewarded with a spectacular view of Lake Vorndarol.</p>
- <p>The descent from the peak is far easier. The trail is wide and less tortuous, and the peak itself protects you and your horse from the icy winds that are blowing in off the lake. You have gone a little over a kilometre when suddenly your Pathsmanship skills alert you to danger; you sense that there is an ambush ahead. You turn off the trail and dismount, leaving your horse tied to a boulder, while you scout the way ahead on foot. You draw your weapon and keep it to hand in case you should happen once more upon some skulking brigands.</p>
- <p>Soon you arrive at a granite outcrop which overlooks a small clearing among the boulders below. In the centre of this clearing lies the carcass of a wild boar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you wish to descend to the clearing and examine the carcass more closely, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you would rather wait here and observe the clearing from a distance, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fat drunkard can hardly believe his luck when you reach to your belt pouch and count out ten Gold Crowns into his grubby hand.</p>
- <p><quote>May the Gods bless y' boots, sir!</quote> he cackles, as he stuffs the gleaming crowns into his pocket. <quote>If it's the Crooked Sage you be a'wantin' to visit, you be needin' Tavern Lane, o'er there,</quote> he says, enthusiastically pointing to the street which leads off to the east.</p>
- <p>With the drunkard's gleeful laughter echoing in your ears, you spur Bracer to a canter and enter this foul-smelling street. Clamped against the walls of the surrounding buildings are oil-soaked torches which serve to illuminate the signs of wine shops and taverns. They are crudely painted with emblems&emdash;a bloodied battle-axe, a winged horse, a watery sun rising from a broken skull. There is not one which resembles a crooked sage and you are beginning to suspect you have been duped, when suddenly you hear the sound of drunken revelry coming from a two-storey building at the end of the street. Its oaken doors hang open and the vivid orange glare of its roaring hearth spills invitingly into the dank night gloom. Although it has no painted emblem, you sense at once that you have come to the Crooked Sage Inn.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>At your approach, a sallow-faced stable boy limps from a wooden hut which is leaning precariously against the side of the tavern wall. For a Gold Crown (erase this from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), he takes charge of your horse and shows you to the taproom door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look towards the dais and see a staff of twisted black metal. Its two-metre length looks insignificant lying beside the huge, booted foot of the Demoness.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="128"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="128"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>The time has nearly come for the transference,</quote> says the young woman. <quote>Shamath must be stopped, and only you can stop her.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But how?</quote> you reply, bemused.</p>
- <p><quote>Simple! You must steal the Deathstaff and enter the Shadow Gate before her. Use the staff to destroy Cadak's crystal dais&emdash;this will close the gate and prevent the Demoness from entering Magnamund. But I warn you, Lone Wolf. You will have precious little time to accomplish this, so do not delay once you return to your world. You must destroy Cadak's dais as quickly as possible or Shamath will get through. She has great strength and power here, but on Magnamund her powers would make her invincible.</quote></p>
- <p>The young woman looks over her shoulder, as if she is being pursued by some invisible hunter. <quote>I wish I could help you more, Lone Wolf,</quote> she says, anxiously, <quote>but I have my own battle to fight. Be brave, Grand Master, but most of all&emdash;be swift!</quote></p>
- <p>And with these words she begins to fade before your eyes. The moment she vanishes completely, the cavern echoes to a deafening roar. It is the angry cry of Shamath. She has seen you!</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike camp and set off shortly after dawn. Come mid-morning, you arrive at a high pass from where you see Lake Vorndarol for the first time. You call on your Magnakai skill of Huntmastery to intensify your vision and, as your view of the lake grows sharper and clearer, you make out the ruins of Vorn on the southern shore. The hamlet is blackened and desolate, but it is not without signs of life. There are men moving around in the streets, and a square-rigged boat is moored at the quay.</p>
- <p>Bayan is anxious for his family's safety and keen to return to them now that he has guided you to within sight of Vorn. You thank him for his help and offer him some money which he gratefully accepts. Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). The number you have chosen is equal to the number of Gold Crowns you give to Bayan. If you have insufficient money, you must give him all the Gold Crowns you have, plus an item from your Backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">To continue, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling phantoms come swirling out of the storm. They encircle the great shimmering arch in a long, unbroken chain, and then, one by one, they peel away to dive at the place where you are standing.</p>
- <p>Your Kai instincts inform you that the Deathstaff possesses the power to repel these psychic phantoms, if you have the courage to use it. You also sense that there will inevitably be a price to pay if you use a weapon forged by the King of all Darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you wish to use the Deathstaff, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect83">If you decide not to use this weapon, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake shortly after dawn to the smell of freshly-brewed jala. Fyrad has already risen and is busy preparing breakfast. He hands you a steaming mug and you look out over the damp hillside, contemplating the quest whilst sipping this delicious beverage.</p>
- <p>After breakfast, Fyrad tells you of a pass which leads directly to the east shore, then he gathers his equipment and furs and loads them on to his mule. He is tired of dodging brigands and storms and has decided to strike camp and abandon his hunt in the mountains. You bid each other good luck before saying your final farewells. On leaving the cave, you turn to the east and Fyrad to the south.</p>
- <p>The hunter's directions are accurate and useful. You find the pass and by noon you have reached a chalky plateau on the far side, which is covered with dense scrub. Small groups of ragged-looking birds are perched on this foliage, feeding on its brightly coloured blooms. As you pass by, you reach out and grab a handful of these yellow flowers which smell sickly-sweet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to taste these blooms, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you decide to discard them and continue your ride, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The muddy track climbs to the peak of a ridge and then makes a twisting descent to a copse of sickly-looking trees clustered at the base of a gully. You have noticed that the night wind has gradually been getting warmer and, as you reach the copse, a few drops of rain begin to spatter the shoulders of your cloak. Within minutes this gentle shower is transformed into a torrential downpour. Suddenly, thunder booms overhead and forks of white lightning streak down to explode among the surrounding trees, setting them on fire. Fearful of the danger, you peer through the wall of rain in search of safer shelter.</p>
- <p>Aided by your Kai senses, you detect two possible refuges from the storm: an overhanging ledge of rock, and the entrance to an old mineshaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you wish to take shelter under the ledge, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you decide to seek shelter in the old mineshaft <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The unexpected sight of your dead brother's face leaves you dry-mouthed and shaking, but fortunately your Kai mastery of psychic defence protects your mind from the full effects of this psychic shock: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively, you dodge your head to one side to avoid being hit in the face by this deadly missile.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect165">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make the jump look effortless as you glide through the air and make a perfect landing on the opposite roof. For a moment the black-clad archer halts beside a tall chimney stack and turns around to look at you. He is clearly worried by how efficiently you are pursuing him. Then, three other shadowy figures emerge from behind the stack and stand at his shoulder. Silently they stare at you for a few moments before one of their number raises his hand and hurls a glassy sphere in your direction.</p>
- <p>The sphere shatters at your feet and, in an instant, your legs are engulfed by a writhing mass of magical vines. By the time you have freed yourself, you discover that the assassin and his confederates are nowhere to be seen. Cautiously, you approach the chimney stack where you find, lying at its base, a palm-sized coin of black metal engraved with runes. You pick up this disc and slip it into the pocket of your tunic. (Record this Runic Disc on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item. You must discard an item in its favour if you already carry the maximum number permissible.)</p>
- <p>Having lost sight of the four shadowy figures, you decide now to call off the chase. Wearily you make your way down from the roof and retrace your steps back to the stables of the Crooked Sage in order to collect your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly, you recite the words that trigger the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Counterspell</spell>. To your sudden horror you discover that the spell is ineffective against this energy bolt and, with a blinding eruption of white light, it explodes among the charred timbers. The blast and concussion send you reeling backwards to slam against a soot-blackened wall: lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The umbrella of light quickly fades to leave you standing in a torrential rain-storm, close to the base of the crystal dais. Through the downpour, you can see that the acolytes are slowly returning. They are anxious for the safety of their leader and hungry for the successful summoning of their banished lord.</p>
- <p>Despite the chill, you tighten your grip on the icy-cold Deathstaff and climb the tiers to the top of the dais. You sense that the crystal dais commands the opening and closing of the Shadow Gate, and you know you must try to close the gate before Shamath appears. In frustration, you raise the Deathstaff and bring it crashing down upon the floor of the upper tier, but it does little damage. It could take forever to destroy the dais this way.</p>
- <p>Then a wave of electrical energy crackles around the rim of the great arch and your blood runs cold, for you know that in a dim and distant cavern upon the plane of Darkness, the Demoness Shamath has just stepped into a Shadow Gate. Her journey to Magnamund has begun!</p>
- <choice idref="sect164"><link-text>Turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dig your heels into Bracer's flanks to make him gallop along the track, away from the rocky ledge and the onrushing wall of water which threatens to drown you both. Unfortunately, you have covered no further than a few dozen metres when you are caught and overrun by the raging flood.</p>
- <p>For countless minutes you hurtle along the gully, propelled by the torrential flood waters. Your terrifying experience comes to an end when you are deposited on a tiny island of rock in the centre of the raging flow. A few minutes later you catch sight of Bracer; he is standing on a ridge of high ground near the edge of the gully. He is clearly frightened but he looks to be physically unharmed by his ordeal. You spend a long and miserable night on this rock, waiting for the flood waters to subside. Due to injuries sustained in the flood, you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen to keep safe your identity from the Elder's mind probe. You sense that his psychic power is strong, and you fear that your defences may not be sufficient to repel him.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked. Also, if you possess Grand Nexus, add 3; and if you possess Kai-alchemy, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43">If your total score is now 9 or less, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hold the brigand in a vice-tight armlock and demand to know who sent him here to ambush you.</p>
- <p><quote>No one sent me,</quote> he pleads, <quote>no one&ellips; no one at all. I was plannin' on robbin' me a few acolytes, that's all. Some of 'em has gold and trinkets that's worth cash in Vakovar. This trail's been good to me. It's netted me some rich pickin's in the past month or so. We wern't after you in partic'lar&ellips; no, you jus' happened to come ridin' past, that's all.</quote></p>
- <p>Your Kai senses inform you that he is speaking the truth. He and his band of robbers have been waylaying Acolytes of Vashna who have travelled this route over the past few weeks. Without slackening your grip, you ask him what he knows about them.</p>
- <p><quote>They been preparin' something, over on the&ellips;</quote> he says, but he ceases to speak the moment he sees a group of his men emerge from the surrounding pines.</p>
- <p><quote>You're in for it now,</quote> he hisses, <quote>my men are goin' to do for you good an' proper.</quote></p>
- <p>Another six of the captain's men step from out of the trees and begin to move towards you, their swords held ready to strike. Rather than stay and fight them, you shove the captain away and take to your heels, pausing only to snatch up his satchel as you make your escape.</p>
- <p>Screaming curses and promising you a slow death, the captain scrambles to his feet and leads his men in a chase, but you are soon lost among the dense pines and, reluctantly, he orders his henchmen to give up the pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You don a red robe, taken from one of the dead acolytes, and raise its black hood to keep your face hidden. The folds of this voluminous garment cover your weapons as well as your clothing, and a haversack taken from another acolyte battle-corpse is large enough to conceal your Backpack. Confident that you can pass for one of them, you run to the quayside and join with those acolytes who are now climbing aboard the longboat.</p>
- <p>When your turn comes, you leap from the quay on to the deck of the ship. You land very close to the sandalled feet of one of the three Acolyte Elders and he glares at you angrily, though he does not see through your disguise. You take your place on a bench alongside the others and use your Kai Camouflage skills to avoid their attention. You notice that a bank of oars stands upright in the gunwales of the boat, and it strikes you as odd that no order has been given to man them. When the last of the acolytes are safely aboard, you discover why.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93"><link-text>Turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the furriers' shop and remount your horse to continue your search for the Crooked Sage Inn. You have ridden less than twenty metres when a sudden gust of wind thins out the cloying fog, revealing the dark entrance to an alleyway off to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to explore this alley, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you decide to ignore it and continue on your way along this street, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your mastery of psychic defence, you are able to construct a fortress wall around your mind which absorbs the Elder's probe. He learns nothing from his attempt to read your psyche and, rather than admit to failure, he dismisses you as an empty-headed cretin.</p>
- <p>With a growl of disdain, he orders you to rejoin the procession and pushes you out of his way as he strides back to his position beside the altar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you slay the last of the ghastly spawn, you feel the floor beginning to harden. Hurriedly, you stretch out and grab the rough cavern wall and pull your feet free before the floor sets and you are held fast forever.</p>
- <p>The automatons have ceased to move. They stand like frozen statues in a line across the cavern. You seize your chance and race towards the dais, but the Demoness is watching you and now she is aware of your plan. She has no intention of allowing you anywhere near the dais or the Deathstaff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rumble and crack of repeated lightning ball strikes echo in your wake as you make your hurried escape along the river trail. It is not until you traverse a high pass, where the River Storn flows through the mountain foothills, that the sound eventually disappears. Your senses tingle with the conviction that the storm was no accident; you feel sure that a malevolent elemental force is at work here.</p>
- <p>Shortly before dusk, you emerge from the pass and see Lake Vorndarol for the first time. You call on your Magnakai skill of Huntmastery to intensify your vision and, as your view of the lake grows sharper and clearer, you make out the ruins of Vorn on the southern shore. The hamlet is blackened and desolate, but it is not without signs of life. There are several pinpoints of light, camp fires judging by their colour, and you can see a square-rigged mainsail: there is a boat moored at the quay.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you wish to attempt to reach Vorn before nightfall, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If you decide to try to spend the night in the hills and then approach the hamlet in the morning, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you step through the archway you feel an electrifying jolt run through your body, and a writhing snake of blue-white energy arcs from the rim of the arch to the hilt of the sword Helshezag. A gasp of astonishment arises from the acolytes, audible even above the howling wind.</p>
- <p><quote>We have an intruder in our midst,</quote> screams Cadak, levelling his wizard's staff at you accusingly. You fight the paralysing effect of the current and tug the sword free of its scabbard. For a moment the current weakens as it is absorbed and neutralized by the dark energy of Helshezag, but then the tip of Cadak's staff ignites with a crimson flame and the current intensifies anew, numbing your limbs with its insidious effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elder becomes angry. He scolds you for taking a <quote>forbidden</quote> weapon and he orders you to hand it over to him at once. Aware that most of the acolytes in this section of the boat are watching you, and that any resistance would be sure to lead to the revealing of your true identity, you reach inside your robe and undo the buckle of your weapon's belt. It clatters to the deck, and the Elder snatches it up and hurls it into the lake. (Erase from your Weapons List any hand weapons you possess. If you have a Bow, you may still keep it.)</p>
- <p>Still fuming, the Elder orders you to go to the rear of the ship where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer, and plead to the spirit of Vashna for forgiveness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You resist the urge to make use of the Deathstaff to ward off the approaching Vortexi horde. You would rather trust in your own goodly powers than use a weapon forged of evil.</p>
- <p>Lashed by the wind and the rain, you steel yourself as the screaming phantoms come swooping down to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you possess Assimilance, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you possess Kai-screen, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect144">If you do not possess these skills, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Do you mind if I keep this?</quote> you ask, motioning to the amulet.</p>
- <p><quote>I've no objection,</quote> replies Kadharian. <quote>I hope it helps you to discover what is truly going on in the north.</quote></p>
- <p>Carefully you rewrap the talisman and slip it into the pocket of your tunic (record this Black Amulet as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>&emdash;you need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum allowed). Then, after a meal and a soothingly hot bath, you bid farewell to the President and take your leave of the palace by way of the stables.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A dishevelled fat man with a yellow streaked beard.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="619"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="619"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Night has thickened the blanket of mist which lines the narrow streets and alleys of Helgor. Guided by your Kai instincts, you set off northwards, but soon you have cause to regret not having thought of asking Kadharian for directions to the Crooked Sage Inn. Helgor is an old city and its chaotic streets follow no logical plan. After several wrong turns you come upon a square where the vanes of a rotting signpost point to three exits. Slumped at its base there sits a dishevelled fat man with a yellow streaked beard, who is gulping mouthfuls of cheap ale from a filthy stone pitcher. You attempt to use your Kai Pathsmanship skill to read the signpost but with no success&emdash;it is completely illegible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to leave the square by the north exit, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to leave the square by the east exit, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to leave the square by the west exit, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you decide to ask the fat man for directions to the Crooked Sage Inn, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At Shamath's command, the attendants draw slivers of steel and come rushing to hack you down. You essay a wide sweep of the sword and scythe the front rank down as easily as if they were ripened corn. Your sword strokes feel effortless; it is as if you are merely holding the Sommerswerd and the blade itself is fighting of its own accord. Within the space of a few minutes you have slain every last one of Shamath's attendants, over a hundred in number.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Sense Evil</spell> you determine that the token is a cursed relic which has been activated by its proximity to the pool of stagnant water. The closer you get to the pool, the hotter the relic becomes. Another few steps and it will explode. Desperately, you fumble to retrieve it from the smoking pocket of your tunic, and hurl it away.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are nearing the middle of the river when your acute hearing detects the cawing of birds in the far distance. At first you dismiss the sounds, thinking they are probably birds of prey feeding somewhere high in the mountains, but when the cawing rapidly grows louder you look upwards to try to detect where it is coming from. You do not have to look very far.</p>
- <p>Three hundred metres above you, a flock of ugly black birds are cawing excitedly as they ride a thermal air current. You recognize them to be Durncrag Scavengers, cruel predators native only to these mountains. Then, with an awful suddenness, they come diving towards you, screeching like demons as they prepare to strike with beak and claw.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small5.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small5.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you possess Animal Mastery and have reached the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to attain this level of Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For half an hour you crouch among the boulders, your eyes scanning every inch of the terrain which surrounds the clearing, but you detect nothing untoward. Then the silence is broken by a sharp <onomatopoeia>clack!</onomatopoeia> and a small rock comes tumbling down the slope. You catch sight of movement among some bushes at the top of the slope, and you sense at once that someone is hiding there.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you possess a Bow and wish to fire an Arrow into the bushes, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utilize your powers to subdue the growling wolf and immediately he becomes calm and docile. Within a few minutes you exact a transformation that turns this creature from a wild animal into a loyal and friendly ally.</p>
- <p>While you settle down to rest, the wolf watches over you and Bracer, attentively standing guard at the entrance to the mineshaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">Restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points and <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great winged beast ekes out its death throes for several minutes after you strike the fatal blow. Aching with the fatigue of your combat, you stagger away from its carcass and stumble blindly through the fog. Soon you sense the temperature beginning to drop, and the great grey wall of fog gradually condenses and falls as rain. This rain freezes and you quickly find yourself surrounded by a wall of glittering ice which stretches like a range of jagged glass mountains from horizon to horizon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187"><link-text>Turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hollow is damp and draughty and offers poor protection against the elements. There is little foliage on which to feed your mount and the incessant storm winds howl through the gaps in the rocks, making it impossible for you to sleep. During this long and uncomfortable night, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Shortly before dawn, the storm dies down and you are able to snatch an hour's sleep. Unfortunately, it is insufficient rest to refresh you fully: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">To continue, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the bolts hits your Backpack (erase 2 items from your Backpack List) but you manage to stay on your feet and reach the dais. You wrench the Deathstaff from the floor of the lower tier and sag beneath its unnatural weight. The Demoness spins around and emits a terrible scream when she sees what you are holding. The noise of her wrath lifts you bodily and sends you skidding helplessly across the floor.</p>
- <p>Desperately, you fight to maintain your grip on the Deathstaff as the furious Shamath comes striding towards you. The deafening shriek of her voice rings once more in your ears as you clutch the Deathstaff to your chest and take a running leap into the dark oblivion of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the returning acolytes aboard, an Elder gives the order that the grappling lines and planks&emdash;which hold the longboat secure to the Vakovarian ship&emdash;be cut and tossed into the lake. The moment this is done, the three Elders raise their glowing wands of power and touch them together to form a triangle.</p>
- <p>There is a flash of greenish light and a swirling cone of vapour coils into the sky, pouring from the tip of this triangle. It creates a howling wind which fills the sails and catapults the longboat away from the quayside at tremendous speed. It takes just a few minutes for the ruins of Vorn to disappear over the horizon.</p>
- <p>Aboard the longboat the victorious acolytes busy themselves as the cold waters of Lake Vorndarol speed by beneath the keel. Some are attending to those who were wounded in the battle; others are chanting a sombre dirge or sitting quietly with their heads bowed, lost in unholy prayer; the remainder clean their weapons or stare vacantly at the distant mountains.</p>
- <p>You keep your head bowed and pretend to be praying. The deception seems to be working until a hand suddenly grips your shoulder and you hear a gruff voice bark a command in a language you do not readily understand.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a thunderous <onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia> as a bolt of white lightning leaps from the Deathstaff and connects with the hilt of Helshezag. You feel an agonizing pain wrack your body from skull to toe: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Then, with a breathtaking suddenness, the pain ceases.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="128"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="128"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You open your eyes and look down, and to your astonishment you see the scorched remains of Helshezag lying at the foot of the dais, the sword obliterated by the power of the Deathstaff (erase Helshezag from your Special Items list).</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">To continue, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are nearing the top of the steps when three shadowy figures emerge from behind a chimney stack and block your path to the approaching archer. One of them has something in his hand which he hurls in your direction: it is a small glass sphere.</p>
- <p>The sphere shatters upon the iron steps and, in an instant, your feet and legs are engulfed by a writhing mass of magical vines. By the time you have freed yourself from their vice-like grip, you discover that the archer and his confederates are nowhere to be seen. Having lost sight of the four shadowy figures, you decide to call off the chase. Wearily you make your way down from the roof and retrace your steps back to the stables of the Crooked Sage in order to collect your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw the red-hot token away, but it hits a boulder and rebounds directly into the trough. There is a dreadful moment of silence, then the whole area is lit up by a blinding flash of yellow flame. Suddenly everything seems to be happening in slow motion. You see acolytes tumbling backwards, screaming, their robes sprouting tongues of flame, and chunks of marble from the trough hurtling skywards like fiery meteors. Then the heat and the shock of the explosion rip into your face and chest, sending you cartwheeling backwards into a black, unfeeling oblivion.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here, on the trail to the Maakengorge.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At Shamath's command, the attendants draw vicious-looking slivers of steel from scabbards hidden inside their robes, and come rushing forwards to hack you down.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The attendants draw vicious-looking slivers of steel from scabbards hidden inside their robes.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="592"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="592"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Cheghath</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are gifted with strong psychic defences. Halve all bonuses you would normally receive if you choose to use a psychic attack (including Kai-blast) during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes it is clear that the brigands have no idea where you are. The leader is furious; he turns to his henchmen and orders them to find you at once. One by one, his brutish sidekicks scurry away into the surrounding trees until the leader is left all alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to launch a surprise attack on the brigand leader, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you wish to creep forward and attempt to take him hostage, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Jackals are gaining too quickly for you to outrun them; your only hope now is to fight them off. You rein your exhausted horse to a halt and slip out of the saddle, drawing your weapon as you touch the ground. The Jackals spread out and surround you, howling maniacally as they savour the scent of your frightened horse. Then, as if responding to a silent signal, they slink forward to tighten the circle. Your horse rears up and tries to pull away, his hooves flailing the air perilously close to your skull.</p>
- <p>As the first of the Jackals makes its attack, you find yourself struggling to hold on to the reins with one hand and fight the Jackals off with the other.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vorndarol Jackals</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess Grand Weaponmastery and have reached the rank of Sun Knight or higher, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">You may evade combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the President into the chamber, your footsteps echoing as you walk across the mosaic marble floor. At the far end of the room a wiry wolfhound lies snoozing in front of a log fire which is crackling in an iron grate. The flames illuminate the chamber with a warm glow, casting flickering shadows across countless shelves stacked with thick rolls of parchment and papyrus. At the centre there stands a large table heaped with sand. The sand has been shaped to depict the topography of Magador, its towns, cities, mountains, hills and rivers. The attention to detail is most impressive.</p>
- <p><quote>Somewhere, here, I fear there is a great evil at work,</quote> says Kadharian, pointing to a section of the table which depicts the territory north of Lake Vorndarol, an area uncomfortably close to the deep furrow which represents the Maakengorge.</p>
- <p><quote>Three moons ago, the lakeside hamlet of Vorn was reportedly destroyed by an unnatural storm, the first of many that have continuously swept the region. I dispatched a troop of my guards to investigate but they never returned. Since then, a second troop has also disappeared without trace.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But what makes you think that a plot to resurrect Vashna is afoot?</quote> you reply, trying not to sound overly sceptical. <quote>With due respect, President, this is a notorious region infested with renegades and brigands. There may be a far simpler explanation for the destruction of Vorn and the disappearance of your troops.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye, 'tis so,</quote> retorts Kadharian. <quote>At first, I too made the same assumption. But then I came into the possession of something which made me believe otherwise.</quote></p>
- <p>From a leather pouch hanging from his sword belt, Kadharian takes an item which is neatly wrapped in a square of patterned silk.</p>
- <p><quote>Here, Grand Master,</quote> he says, offering it to you, <quote>I'll let you draw your own conclusions from this.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect133"><link-text>Turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are so stunned by the image of your dead brother's face that your mind enters a deep state of psychic shock: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you survive the effects of this trauma, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that you are not alone; you can feel the presence of another living creature close by. Silently you draw your weapon and set off on foot to investigate. Your Kai senses lead you directly to a derelict hut on the perimeter of this ancient settlement. You call out, demanding whoever is inside to show himself, but there is no reply. You repeat your demand but again it goes unanswered. With weapon raised you rush in through the door, expecting to have to fight a skulking brigand or an Acolyte of Vashna, but you find neither. You are confronted instead by something wholly unexpected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect103-1-foot" idref="sect103-1">
- <p>The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your Kai mastery to conjure up a dense fog to surround you, in the hope that it will hamper the attacking horde. However, the Vortexi are psychic creatures who actively seek out their prey by the strength of their mind waves. Your Discipline disrupts this homing process to some extent, but there are still many among the phantom horde who sense accurately where you are. When they attack, you are forced to defend yourself vigorously.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. If you possess the Sommerswerd, restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score.<a id="sect103-1" idref="sect103-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dig your heels into Bracer's flanks and gallop along the track, steering him away from the rocky ledge and the onrushing wall of water which threatens to drown you both. Helped by your Kai mastery, you make him leave the track and ascend a difficult slope that leads to higher ground. He obeys your command and, with barely seconds to spare, you avoid being caught by the flood as it careers along the gully.</p>
- <p>The remaining few hours before sunrise are spent on a tiny island of rock, waiting for the flood waters to subside. It is a long and uncomfortable wait: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The journey to Helgor takes you south to the City-state of Casiorn, then west to the Lyrisian capital of Varetta&emdash;a road you once travelled several years ago during your Magnakai quest. In the main, your ride is peaceably uneventful. By choice you keep to yourself and avoid staying too long in any one place. It is not until you reach Vakovar that the uncertain politics of this region give rise for concern. This squalid, lawless city is home to some of the Stornlands' most notorious criminals and robber-barons. It is common knowledge that travellers who value their wealth and health wisely avoid Vakovar whenever possible. Forewarned by these rumours you choose not to dwell here, but ride swiftly through the city and press on to Helgor. Yet while you are within the city walls of Vakovar no less than a dozen separate attempts are made to relieve you of your money pouch and horse. There are no witnesses to these attacks, which is just as well, for when you ride out of Vakovar you leave a score of dead robbers littering the cobblestones.</p>
- <p>It is early evening when you eventually crest a hill and catch your first disappointing glimpse of Helgor. It is a damp and unwholesome-looking city, ringed by a rampart of mouldering rubble, the remains of a curtain wall which was destroyed during the war against the Darklords. Through the many gaps in this rampart you can see the thick fog that swirls through Helgor's brick streets and crooked, filthy alleys. At first sight it seems that the Magadorian capital is little more than a beggar-city, a vast hotchpotch of slums and hovels, but as you ride nearer you notice several grand towers piercing the rolling grey mist.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The main approach to Helgor is patrolled by presidential guards, heavily armed with crossbows and spears, who are checking everyone attempting to enter by road. They are dressed in flamboyant tunics of green, scarlet, and black calf hide, which seem too lavish for the garrison of such a squalid city. When asked your business, you show them the scroll given to you by Rimoah. They are impressed by the invitation and insist that an armed escort be provided to take you directly to the President's palace. After your experience at Vakovar you welcome their offer.</p>
- <p>Despite the overwhelming squalor of Helgor's dingy tenements and streets, you were expecting the President's palace to be the exception. To your disappointment, it turns out to be little more than a fortified chateau situated at the centre of the city, atop a hill known as the Vanagrom Knoll. You are welcomed into the palace's senate hall by an official called Stepona, a dour man who looks older than his thirty years. He sees to it that your horse is stabled, and that you are given refreshments while you await your audience with the President. An hour passes before the doors to the senate hall swing open and, without formal announcement, in strides President Kadharian of Magador.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you have ever visited the city of Aarnak in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you have never been to Aarnak, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your psychic defences to keep you hidden from this creature. You cannot see it in the dense fog but you can hear it swooping down, and you are nearly flattened by the draught of its mighty wings as it roars past close overhead.</p>
- <p>As first it seems to be going away into the distance, but then you sense it turn about and come gliding back for a second pass. Suddenly you realize that your psychic defences are not hiding you from this creature at all; it is locking on to your life-force, not your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you do not possess this weapon, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recite the words of the battle spell <spell>Invisible Fist</spell> and suddenly you feel a powerful gust of wind sweep past your face. It punches the Elder squarely in the stomach, lifts him off his feet, and sends him tumbling over the side of the boat.</p>
- <p>A cry goes up along the deck, a shout of alarm that one of the Elders has fallen overboard. Scores of acolytes rush to the rail in response but there is nothing they can do. The longboat is travelling so fast that the Elder is already hundreds of metres behind the stern and cannot be seen amidst the churning water.</p>
- <p>Those who were seated near you have now become uncomfortably curious about who you are. To avoid their attentions, you move to the stern where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Calm yourself, Smudd,</quote> you say, purposefully letting your hands drift away from your weapons, <quote>I mean you no harm. I just want to talk with you awhile, that's all.</quote></p>
- <p>The scrawny-faced knave stares at you with deep suspicion. Cold sweat beads upon his brow and his hand tightens on the hilt of his rapier.</p>
- <p><quote>Look,</quote> you say, reaching to your Backpack, <quote>I'm even prepared to compensate you for the privilege.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly you unshoulder your Backpack, unbuckle the flap, and offer him any item of his choosing. After some hesitation, he picks the item which is listed at the top of your Backpack List. (Erase this item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">To continue, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your Bow and draw an Arrow, but the instant the feathers touch your lips, both the Bow and the Arrow burst into flames: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Cadak cackles with glee at the success of his spell. <quote>You are doomed, Lone Wolf. Why don't you admit it,</quote> he says, sneeringly. <quote>You were doomed the moment you returned from the great arch.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect110-1-foot" idref="sect110-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to second sequence of numbers on the crystal dais grid in <a idref="sect235">Section 235</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you correctly complete the second sequence, a deep hum resonates from inside the upper tier and slowly it opens to reveal a hexagonal crystal plinth with a circular hole at its centre.<a id="sect110-1" idref="sect110-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Your Kai senses inform you that by inserting the tip of the Deathstaff into the hole, you will cause the Shadow Gate beneath the great arch to close.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="128"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="128"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Trembling with fear and exhilaration, you raise the Deathstaff above your head and bring it down with one mighty thrust, driving it deep into the hole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense a hostile psychic presence about them, an evil mind-energy which is becoming stronger as they draw nearer. You draw on your own formidable psychic skills and erect a defensive wall around your mind which keeps you safe from their first bombardment. They veer upwards and vanish into the clouds for a few moments, but then they reappear and come swooping down for another attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess Kai-surge, and have reached the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you do not possess this Discipline, of if you have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect112-1-foot" idref="sect112-1">
- <p>You may also eat a single Meal and only lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai mastery, you steer your exhausted horse across this difficult terrain with incredible skill. You manage to keep him ahead of the Jackals just long enough to reach firmer ground, where he is then able to increase his pace and escape from the howling pack.</p>
- <p>The Jackals command the shore, and you are forced to retrace your steps all the way back to the fork in the trail and take the other path that leads into the foothills. By the time you arrive here, you are tired and very hungry. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat 2 meals or lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<a id="sect112-1" idref="sect112-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stretch out with your right foot and kick open the satchel, but in doing so you place yourself off balance. The brigand captain senses this and uses the opportunity to break free. He scurries away for the safety of the trees, screaming all the while for his men to come and save him. Then you see the first of them emerging from the surrounding pines. Rather than fight them, you decide it better to escape whilst you still can, and so you take to your heels pausing only to snatch up the captain's satchel as you leave. The brigands give chase, but they soon lose you among the dense pines and call off their pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recover quickly from the unexpected shock and manage to keep your place in the line as it moves up the hillside, away from the poisoned trough, without displaying any discomfort.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You command her to raise her right hand and she does so without hesitation. On her index finger you notice a platinum ring which you sense at once is magical; it is the source of her psychic power. The ring is fused to her hand and cannot be removed. Having no wish to sever her finger, you command her to lower her hand and tell you where you may find the Crooked Sage Inn. Obediently, she gives you clear directions to Tavern Lane, the street where the inn is situated, and less than ten minutes later you find yourself at a signpost which marks the entrance to this narrow thoroughfare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elder scolds you for more than a minute before he loses his patience and stalks off, dismissing you as unworthy of his time. Those seated around you have now become uncomfortably curious about who you are. To avoid their attentions, you get up and move to the stern where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You find shelter in a wooded grove, close to the trail, where you are able to make camp for the night. Darkness descends, but the surrounding trees are kept illuminated by a spectacular host of twinkling lights which swoop and soar above the hills. It is a wondrous display but you are not deceived into thinking that all is well. There is a great and evil magic at work here; you can sense it.</p>
- <p>The storms stay away this night and you are able to get several hours' uninterrupted sleep&emdash;restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You rise with the dawn and breakfast on roots and berries which are in plentiful supply (there is sufficient surplus for 2 Meals). Then you break camp and continue your ride towards Vorn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect118-1-foot" idref="sect118-1">
- <p>The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the Sun-sword and strike out with unerring accuracy as the first of the Vortexi engulf you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For possessing the Sommerswerd, restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score.<a id="sect118-1" idref="sect118-1-foot" class="footnote" /> For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add a further 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like a fleeting shadow, you move through the undergrowth towards the brigand leader. As you draw closer, you hear him cursing the incompetence of his men and you see him beating his clenched fist on the trunk of the fallen bough in frustration. Then you leap upon him, covering his mouth with one hand and locking his arm behind his back with the other. He growls and struggles like an angry bear to break free from your grip, but when you whisper a threat in his ear he quickly ceases to resist. Suddenly his nerve seems to break and he begins to whimper like a frightened puppy. You ease your hand away from his mouth just enough so that he can speak and at once he pleads with you not to kill him. He offers you the contents of his satchel and free passage away from here if you will promise not to harm him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to see what he has in his satchel, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to question him about why he has laid an ambush for you, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you unshoulder your Bow, draw an Arrow to your lips, and take hurried aim as the man in black makes his daring leap across the street.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with Bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon it is your turn to dip your hand into the trough. As you come to within a few metres of the foul water, you sense that it has been cursed by powerful necromantic spells. The evil surrounding it is strong, and nausea rises up from the pit of your stomach as you dip your fingers into this cursed brine.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). The number you have picked is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose as a result of touching this cursed water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is now 20 or less, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is now 21 or more, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place the food before their feet and step away, but they do not touch it until you sheathe your weapon and taste it yourself to prove that it has not been poisoned (erase this Meal from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>). Ravenously they consume the humble meal in seconds and, when they have finished, they allow you to approach and examine their sickly child. You tell them that you can help their son. Using your innate Healing skills, you place your hands upon the boy's chest and let your Kai power flow through into his fever-wracked body. Within a few moments he stirs to consciousness and gives a healthy cry; you have saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect123-1-foot" idref="sect123-1">
- <p>There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your finger at the Arch Druid. A tingling sensation runs down the length of your arm which culminates with a bolt of blue-white energy that arcs from your index finger and explodes against the haft of Cadak's staff.</p>
- <p>Your sudden and unexpected use of magic caught the Arch Druid offguard. He defended himself, but you sense that the bolt has weakened him. Seizing this opportunity, you draw your weapon and rush forwards to attack him before he fully recovers.<a id="sect123-1" idref="sect123-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <combat><enemy>Arch Druid Cadak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kneel between two praying acolytes and begin to mumble along with their sonorous prayer-dirge. A shiver runs along your spine and you begin to feel queasy; a strong aura of evil surrounds the group and your psychic senses are struggling to shield your mind from its insidious influence.</p>
- <p>You notice that some of the acolytes are shaking uncontrollably, and sweat drips from their faces despite the icy wind which howls across the deck. You recognize that they are suffering the after-effects of using Adgana, a potent and highly addictive potion which increases skill and ferocity in combat. You hazard a guess that many of the acolytes were made to take this narcotic before the assault on the quay, to stir them into battle-frenzy.</p>
- <p>You have been kneeling among the praying acolytes for barely a minute when suddenly the war-horn blares a long, discordant tone. All eyes turn to the east where the shoreline can now be seen on the horizon. The longboat is speeding towards the wooden jetty where a large group of red-robed figures are awaiting its return. The prayer-dirge ceases and everyone gets to their feet in readiness to disembark as soon as the boat docks at the jetty.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken in the middle of the night by a tremendous clap of thunder which shakes the ground and startles Bracer. At first you think that a new day must already have dawned, for the cave is awash with bright light. But when you prise open your sleep-clogged eyes and look out over the surrounding landscape, you see that the light has a far more sinister origin.</p>
- <p>The sky is alive with hordes of glowing, wraith-like phantoms. They swoop down from the roiling storm clouds and skim the treetops, howling and screeching like insane banshees. A trio of these ghastly apparitions pass within a few yards of the cave mouth and suddenly your head is gripped by a crushing pain. You use your Magnakai skills to erect a Psi-screen to protect your mind from this psychic attack, but your reflexes are sleep-dulled and you lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before your defence is intact.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your mastery of psychic defence, you are able to construct a shield around your mind which absorbs the Elder's probe. He learns nothing from his attempt to read your psyche and, rather than admit to failure, he dismisses you as an empty-headed cretin.</p>
- <p>With a growl of disdain, he orders you to rejoin the end of the procession and pushes you out of his way as he strides back to rally those acolytes who are fleeing down the path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell> you are able to rise in the air and glide over this soft section of the cavern floor until you reach firmer ground. With ease, you are then able to slip past the end of the line of automatons and race towards the dais.</p>
- <p>During your flight across the sagging floor, the Demoness was putting on an armoured breastplate of varnished black steel and was otherwise distracted. But she saw you get around the flank of her automatons and now she is aware of your plan.</p>
- <p>It is clear by the anger on her face that she has no intention of allowing you anywhere near the dais or the Deathstaff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57"><link-text>Turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You urge Bracer up a treacherously slick path that leads to the entrance. Without once faltering on the difficult ascent, he carries you to the top of the path where two rusty wagon rails disappear into the mineshaft's shadowy maw. You approach, and the instant you are out of the rain, your keen Sixth Sense alerts you to the fact that you are not the only ones seeking shelter here. The scent of greasy fur and the glint of two grey-green eyes in the gloom tell you that you have stumbled upon the lair of a mountain wolf.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The scent of greasy fur and the glint of two grey-green eyes in the gloom&ellips;</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="577"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="577"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>The wolf growls menacingly and Bracer backs away in fright. Quickly you prepare to use your Magnakai skill of Animal Control to calm this beast before its hunger or its fear make it attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you possess Animal Mastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this rank, <link-text>turn instead to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your <spell>Mind Charm</spell> proves stronger than his will to resist it. With a sigh, he bows his head and becomes completely subservient. Mentally you command him to go and attend to the wounded at the bow of the boat and he obeys at once without question. Those seated around you have now become uncomfortably curious. To avoid their attentions, you get up and move to the stern where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the arch and feel no harmful effects. But as you descend the steps on the far side, you suddenly notice that a large number of acolytes and Elders are staring at you with hatred and anger in their eyes. You look over your shoulder to see that the invisible curtain of power, through which you passed, is no longer invisible. It is glowing an accusing shade of red.</p>
- <p><quote>Intruder!</quote> screams one of the Elders. <quote>Unbeliever!</quote> screams another. Then, with a sudden rush, a wave of acolytes comes running at you, many clasping knives and short swords in their fists.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Acolytes of Vashna</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). The number you have picked is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost as a result of the lightning impact and the fall.</p>
- <p>You are left stunned and smouldering by the explosion. Drunkenly, you stagger to your feet and use your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to extinguish those parts of your cloak and tunic ignited by the blast. Your Weapon disintegrated when it was hit (erase it from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), yet it served to conduct some of the energy of the lightning ball away from your body.</p>
- <p>Your terrified horse has halted at the river's edge and you call to him, using your natural Kai skills to calm and control his fear. He responds at once and returns to collect you. Swiftly you climb back into the saddle and gallop away along the river trail, anxious to put distance between you and this deadly storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At Shamath's command, her attendants draw wicked-looking slivers of steel from scabbards hidden inside their robes and, with a cry of vengeance, they come rushing forwards to hack you down.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cheghath</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are gifted with strong psychic defences. Halve all bonuses you would normally receive if you choose to use a psychic attack (including Kai-blast) during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You accept the package and carefully unfold its silken wrapper to reveal an amulet, oblong in shape, strung upon a length of crude twine. It has been carved from coal-black stone, flecked with grains of metal, which sparkle in the firelight.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small1.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small1.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Where was this found?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>In the ruins of Vorn,</quote> replies Kadharian, ominously.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you possess the Discipline of Telegnosis, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your punch knocks the Elder off his feet and leaves him slumped unconscious against the gunwale. A deathly silence descends on the deck and all eyes turn to stare in disbelief at what you have done.</p>
- <p><quote>Seize him!</quote> bellows another Elder, and a score of acolytes spring from the benches to obey the command. You draw your weapon and fight them with breathtaking skill and valour, but eventually you are overcome by the sheer weight of numbers. By the time they have disarmed you and pinned you to the deck, more than thirty of them lie slain or seriously injured in a heaped circle around where you lie.</p>
- <p>You stare back defiantly at the ring of grim faces that loom over you. Then the face of an Elder comes into view and he sneers with disdain when he sees that you are a Sommlending. He places the tip of his glowing wand to your forehead and suddenly there is an explosion of white light. Sadly, it is the last sensation you will ever experience.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect135-1-foot" idref="sect135-1">
- <p>There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw the Sommerswerd from its scabbard and point it accusingly at the Arch Druid, expecting him to wither in the face of its goodly light. But the blade does not glow as radiantly as before: it is as if its powers are being subdued by Cadak's spectral prison.</p>
- <p>With loathing in your heart, you advance upon your despised enemy. He weaves his hands before his face and his image fades. He is using a spell of invisibility but it does not keep him entirely hidden: you can still see the outline of his staff and his body flickering as he moves against the background wall of light.<a id="sect135-1" idref="sect135-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <combat><enemy>Arch Druid Cadak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retreat into the copse, using your Magnakai skills of Invisibility to keep you hidden from the advancing brigands. In their clumsy eagerness to enter the trees, they fail to notice you slip through their lines and circle around behind them. You have outwitted them but you are still anxious that they may find your horse. You move to higher ground in order to get a better view of the copse and, from a vantage point among the boulders, you observe their leader and three of his henchmen hiding nearby, crouched behind the bough of a fallen tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess a Bow and wish to fire an Arrow at the brigand leader, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use the spell of <spell>Mind Charm</spell>, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you decide to wait and observe the brigands a little longer, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the hall, you notice that it has only one means of entry&emdash;a large pair of double doors facing the lake. A long procession of acolytes are filing into the hall through these open doors and you stop to observe them. It occurs to you that if you are to discover what is going on inside, then you will have to enter by the same way.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A portly perimeter guard passes by and you duck into a darkened doorway to avoid being seen. He goes into a hut opposite and suddenly an idea springs to mind, an idea that could get you into the grand hall. You hurry across to the hut and rush in, catching the acolyte by surprise. A blow to the back of the head renders him unconscious, and quickly you put on his voluminous red robes which completely cover your clothing and equipment (you need not record these robes on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>Dressed as an acolyte, and aided by your Kai Camouflage skills, you should now have no difficulty getting into the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If, before leaving the hut, you wish to search it for useful items, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wield the Deathstaff with strength and confidence. The whirling cyclone ruins the Vortexi attack and bleeds them of their psychic powers, rendering them harmless.</p>
- <p>However, by using the Deathstaff to accomplish this, you have left yourself vulnerable to its insidious power: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You let fly your Arrow but it is poorly aimed. It arcs harmlessly into the night sky as the archer lands on the roof of the building opposite. Determined not to let him get away, you dash along the street, your eyes fixed on the shadowy figure as he makes his escape across the rooftops of the north quarter. You are twenty metres ahead of him when the street makes a turn and you find yourself faced by a solid brick wall; you have come to a dead end. You are about to retrace your steps when suddenly you notice a rusty iron staircase away to your right. It is a crude fire-escape ladder and it leads all the way to the roof of a linen warehouse. Quickly you climb the ladder, your weapon drawn in readiness to intercept the assassin the moment he appears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and brace yourself to receive their maniacal attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Acolytes of Vashna (in battle-frenzy)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a sparkling sheet of energy shimmers beneath the great arch, and you catch sight of a huge, booted foot stepping through it. You tremble at the thought of what will happen next, for you recognize only too well to whom the foot belongs. With mounting horror you watch as the Demoness Shamath emerges from the Shadow Gate in her entirety. Here on Magnamund she is five times greater in size and power than in her own domain, and she is hungry to exercise that terrible power.</p>
- <p>She stoops down and plucks the Deathstaff from you as if she was removing a tiny splinter of wood from a lowly insect. Then she points a tree-sized finger at the ground before the dais and a huge hole appears.</p>
- <p>A raging whirlwind arises from this abyss, a whirling vortex which quickly builds in power until it is sucking everything into its spinning black core. Screaming acolytes tumble past and disappear into its maw as you desperately hang on to the dais to stop yourself from being sucked to your death. But your resistance is futile. With a callous flick of her wrist, the Demoness Shamath consigns you to your doom.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect142-1-foot" idref="sect142-1">
- <p>The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and brace yourself as the phantoms swoop down upon you like hungry vultures descending on a corpse.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. If you possess the Sommerswerd, restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score.<a id="sect142-1" idref="sect142-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect143-1-foot" idref="sect143-1">
- <p>It is most likely that these Discipline bonuses are not intended to be cumulative.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the hood of your robe and join the procession of acolytes who are filing into the hall. The interior is a dark and forbidding place, decorated with the ritualistic trappings of the Acolytes of Vashna. Spluttering candles dimly illuminate a central altar and a sickly-smelling incense saturates the air. The acolytes encircle the altar several ranks deep and listen intently as two of their Elders conduct a liturgy in praise of Darklord Vashna, and the victory he has seen fit to grant them. They conclude their sinister ceremony by crying out the words, <quote>We celebrate this eve of the <quote>Great Welcoming</quote>. May Lord Vashna, our master, vanquish his enemies and rule unchallenged ever more!</quote></p>
- <p>The acolytes respond spontaneously by repeatedly chanting their master's name. <quote>Vashna! Vashna! Vashna!</quote> they cry, as they slowly shuffle out of the hall in single file. At the door, each acolyte is handed a burning torch and made to parade past the Elders who give them their unholy blessing. You take care to keep your face concealed within the raised hood of your robe as your turn comes to pass before them.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Kai-alchemy, Kai-screen, or Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked.<a id="sect143-1" idref="sect143-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Also, if you possess a Runic Disc, add 1; if you possess the Sommerswerd, deduct 3; and for every rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the screaming Vortexi horde swoops down, you pray to Kai and Ishir to give you strength enough to defeat them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the first of the brigand captain's men emerge from the surrounding pines, you break off the fight and take to your heels, pausing only to snatch up his satchel as you leave. Thinking that his swordsmanship has terrified you into running away, the captain gives chase, but he soon loses you among the dense pines and gives up his pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247"><link-text>Turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a grey-haired man dressed in furs springs up from behind the boulder with a loaded crossbow clutched in his hands.</p>
- <p><quote>Don't move!</quote> he growls, and levels the weapon at your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you possess the Discipline of Telegnosis, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you do not possess this skill, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The street ends at a stagnant fountain where a rowdy crowd has gathered to watch a bare-knuckled contest between two tough streetfighters. You stop to ask one of the spectators the way to the Crooked Sage Inn and, somewhat to your surprise, he seems pleased to offer his help. He gives you clear directions to Tavern Lane, the street where the inn is situated, and less than ten minutes later you find yourself at a signpost which marks the start of this narrow thoroughfare.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shamath recoils in horror before your deadly blows. She begins to whimper. Then, quite suddenly, a geyser of flame shoots from the ground and engulfs her worm-like body. You watch with disbelief as the tendrilled flesh blackens and flakes away in a matter of seconds, to leave nothing but a coiled heap of glowing cinders on the mirrored floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261"><link-text>Turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bolt streaks towards you and, for one terrible moment, you are frozen rigid with fear. Then your natural Kai instincts take command, and suddenly it is as if everything is happening in slow motion. You are in mortal danger and must act swiftly if you are to survive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you do not, you can attempt to avoid the bolt by diving out of the building. <link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect150-1-foot" idref="sect150-1">
- <p>It is most likely that these Discipline bonuses are not intended to be cumulative.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The longboat glides to a halt beside the jetty and attendant acolytes make it secure with ropes and hawsers. An Elder oversees the disembarkation, allowing the wounded off first, followed by the rest in descending order of rank and superiority. You join in the queue with the lowly initiates and follow the line as it files off the jetty and up a torchlit hilltrack to a hall of stone. It is a grand building which shows signs of having only recently been constructed.</p>
- <p>The interior of the hall is a dark and forbidding place, decorated with the ritualistic trappings of the Acolytes of Vashna. Spluttering candles dimly illuminate a central altar and a sickly-smelling incense saturates the air. The acolytes encircle the altar several ranks deep and listen intently as two of their Elders conduct a liturgy in praise of Darklord Vashna, and the victory he has seen fit to grant them. They conclude their sinister ceremony by crying out the words, <quote>We celebrate this eve of the <quote>Great Welcoming</quote>. May Lord Vashna, our master, vanquish his enemies and rule unchallenged ever more!</quote></p>
- <p>The acolytes respond spontaneously by repeatedly chanting their master's name. <quote>Vashna! Vashna! Vashna!</quote> they cry, as they slowly shuffle out of the hall in single file. At the door, each acolyte is handed a burning torch and made to parade past the Elders who give them their unholy blessing. You take care to keep your face concealed within the raised hood of your robe as your turn comes to pass before them.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Kai-alchemy, Kai-screen, or Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked.<a id="sect150-1" idref="sect150-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <p>Also, if you possess a Runic Disc, add 1; if you possess the Sommerswerd, deduct 3; and for every rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your basic Kai skills are sufficient to calm the wolf, but he is clearly agitated by the scent and presence of your horse. Confused and frustrated by its conflicting instincts, the wolf retreats into the depths of the mineshaft where it howls throughout the remainder of the night.</p>
- <p>Unable to sleep because of the wolf's incessant cries, you spend the next five hours in quiet discomfort waiting for the storm to subside: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279"><link-text>Turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and wait with bated breath as you listen to the beast approaching. It sounds as if it is more than thirty metres away when suddenly, with a deafening roar, it drops through the fog and lands upon you. Desperately you fight to defend yourself as it tries to rake you unmercifully with fang and claw.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You unsheathe your weapon and wait with bated breath as you listen to the beast approaching.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="633"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="633"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Zarthyn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You back away from the advancing line of automatons and try to use your speed and agility to get around their flank. But you have taken less than a dozen steps when you feel the floor becoming soft and spongy beneath your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you possess Telegnosis, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">Otherwise, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fly through the air towards the opposite roof, yet in your haste to pursue the assassin, you misjudge the jump and land short. Desperately, you scrabble to get a grip on the rusty gutter at the edge of the tiled roof, but it is weak and cannot support your weight. It collapses and, with a cry of fear, you plummet backwards into the street below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38"><link-text>Turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trail meanders away from the lapping waters of the lake and winds slowly upwards to a chalky plateau covered with dense scrub. Clumps of dull yellow blossoms, blighted by the severe weather, cling to the boughs of this foliage. They give off a pleasant odour which your horse finds irresistible. You sense that they are nutritious and so you stop and both of you eat your fill: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (There is a sufficient surplus of blossoms for 2 Meals.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect338"><link-text>Turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Throughout the afternoon, the rocky trail descends through an unlovely landscape of shale hills and crags topped with thorny brambles. It is difficult terrain but your ride passes without incident. Shortly before dusk, you come to the top of a ridge and catch your first glimpse of the River Storn and the snow-capped peaks of the southern Durncrags beyond. The elation of having come this far is sobered when you see that the distant sky is changing rapidly, and only a slender streak of light fringes the horizon. A storm is closing in.</p>
- <p>As you make the long, gradual descent towards the river, the air becomes humid and dark clouds appear overhead. The turmoil of moisture quickly charges the atmosphere. Lightning flashes without warning from the clouds to the earth and arcs skyward again, its energy echoing in a slow roll of thunder. Then the heavens open and a deluge of rain saturates the land. You calm your startled horse and urge him through the pouring rain, praying all the while that you will be able to find shelter before night closes in.</p>
- <p>You are within a mile of the river when the darkness is almost complete. Yet, aided by your keen vision, you are able to make out two places that can offer some degree of shelter from the storm. The first is a cone-shaped stone hut, perched near the river's edge; the second is a rocky hollow close to the trail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you wish to shelter in the hut, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to take shelter in the rocky hollow, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scramble to your feet and sprint to the dais where you wrench the Deathstaff from the floor of the lower tier. To your horror it feels abnormally heavy and you sag beneath its weight. The Demoness spins around and emits a terrible scream when she sees what you are holding. The noise of her wrath lifts you bodily and sends you skidding across the floor.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="128"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="128"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Desperately, you fight to maintain your grip on the Deathstaff as the furious Shamath comes striding towards you. The deafening shriek of her voice rings once more in your ears as you clutch the Deathstaff to your chest and take a running leap into the dark oblivion of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the brooding sky, using your ability to see in the ultraviolet and infrared light spectrums. Your advanced Kai skills enable you to see and track the flying creatures as they circle slowly around their lair and come swooping down to attack you.</p>
- <p>You draw your weapon and, in the ultraviolet spectrum, you detect that an aura of protection is sheathing it from the extreme temperature of this domain. Then a hideous shriek splits the air as the first of the beasts dives upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect276">You may evade this combat after five rounds by <link-text>turning to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have destroyed all of the ghostly creatures that were attacking you, but you are mindful that there are still hundreds of these malevolent spirits circling the area. You stand with your horse at the rear of the shallow cave, your weapon ready in hand, and pray to Kai and Ishir to keep you both safely hidden. Gleefully, the Vortexi ride the raging storm for more than an hour until eventually it dies and they slowly disappear.</p>
- <p>An uneasy calm descends upon the land. You sense that the danger has passed and try to get some rest, but the recent memory of your ghastly confrontation is still vivid in your mind which makes it impossible for you to sleep: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Furthermore, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose an additional 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337"><link-text>Turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elder's probe breaks through your defence and he suddenly realizes that you are an intruder. He pulls at your robe and tears it open, revealing your leather tunic and breeches. Recognizing them at once to be Sommlending in origin, he gasps with shock as he guesses at your true identity.</p>
- <p><quote>Seize him!</quote> he bellows, and a score of acolytes spring forward to obey the command. You draw your weapon and fight them with breathtaking skill and valour, but eventually you are overcome by the sheer weight of their numbers. By the time they have disarmed you and pinned you to the rocky ground, more than thirty of them lie slain or seriously injured in a heaped circle around where you lie.</p>
- <p>You stare back defiantly at the ring of grim torchlit faces that loom over you. Then the face of the Elder comes into view and he sneers with disdain. He places the tip of a glowing wand to your forehead and suddenly there is an explosion of white light. Sadly for you, it is the last sensation you will ever experience.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here, on the trail to the Maakengorge.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shops and hovels which sandwich this narrow street show no visible signs of life. Heavy iron bars and stout oaken shutters secure their every portal, understandably a necessary precaution in this villainous city. You are beginning to lose hope of finding the Crooked Sage Inn, when suddenly you notice a pale yellow light streaming from the doorway of a nearby building. As you ride closer, you see a sign hanging above the door. It shows a black bear standing upright on its hind legs, and in its forepaws it grasps a placard which says:</p>
- <signpost>GHADLAR & SONS&emdash;FURRIERS</signpost>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you wish to enter the furriers' shop, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you choose to ignore it, you may continue along this street by <link-text>turning to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling phantoms come swirling out of the storm. They encircle the great shimmering arch in a long, unbroken chain, and then, one by one, they peel away to dive at the place where you are standing. Guided by your Kai instincts, you raise the Deathstaff and whirl it around your head&emdash;once, twice, three times&ellips;</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="128"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="128"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>An ominous hum radiates from its haft. There is a crackle of static electricity and the damp air seethes with restrained, undischarged power. A thread of mist issues from the staff's tip and builds rapidly into a spinning cyclone that ensnares the Vortexi and prevents them from reaching you. In desperation, you sense them pooling their immense psychic energies in an attempt to break out of this whirling prison and attack you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-surge, add 4 to this number. If you possess Kai-screen, add 2. If you possess Assimilance, add 1.</p>
- <p>Also, if your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 18 or more, add 1; if your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 17 or less, deduct 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If it is 4&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tied to a stone obelisk in the centre of the quay square are three Acolytes of Vashna. They are guarded by two Vakovarian brigands who keep themselves amused by bullying and tormenting them.</p>
- <p>For the past hour the sky overhead has become increasingly grey and thundery, with occasional storm flashes illuminating the northern shore. Now this storm is crossing the lake and the lightning is beginning to strike dangerously close to the quay. The brigands seemingly ignore this danger, so preoccupied are they with their petty cruelties, but then something appears on the surface of the lake which commands their attention.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Suddenly, a massive longboat emerges from the wall of fog and comes speeding towards the quay.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>A massive bank of grey-white fog is rolling across the water towards the quay at an unnatural pace. When it is just a few hundred metres from the shore, a volley of lightning bolts comes hurtling from its core to explode against the quayside wall with devastating effect. Several brigands are incinerated where they stand, leaving nothing but glowing piles of ash to mark their passing. Then, suddenly, a massive longboat emerges from the wall of fog and comes speeding towards the quay. Glowing bolts of energy dart from its prow to explode upon the deck of the Vakovarian ship. One of these bolts passes high between the masts and arcs through the air towards the quay. You watch with mounting horror as it comes speeding directly towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect164-1-foot" idref="sect164-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect235">turn immediately to 235</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Galvanized into action by the fear of what will happen should the Demoness be allowed entry to this world, you cast your eyes and Kai senses across the symbols which are engraved upon the crystal surface of the uppermost tier. Then, in a sudden flash of inspiration, you realize that the symbols themselves are the key to the activation of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <p>You study the symbols and determine that a sequence must be completed in order for you to be able to close the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <p>Study the following grid of numbers carefully. When you think you know the missing number, turn to the entry which bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect164-1" idref="sect164-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="195"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="195"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you cannot solve the problem, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself flat against Bracer's neck and the bolt parts your hair as it whistles past your head. Unharmed, you reach the cover of a dense pine copse where you quickly dismount. Having secured Bracer's reins to a tree, you move back to the edge of the copse to try and catch a glimpse of your attackers. You have no difficulty seeing them: a dozen brigands, armed with crossbows and swords, are rushing through the undergrowth directly towards your hiding place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you step through the archway you feel an electrifying jolt run through your body, and snake-like tendrils of blue-white energy arc from the rim of the arch to the hilt of the Sommerswerd. A gasp of astonishment arises from the acolytes, audible even above the howling wind.</p>
- <p><quote>We have an intruder in our midst!</quote> screams Cadak, levelling his wizard's staff at you accusingly. You fight the paralysing effect of the current and tug the sun-sword free of its scabbard. For a moment the current weakens as it is absorbed and neutralized by the Sommerswerd's divine energy, but then the tip of Cadak's staff ignites with a crimson flame and the current intensifies anew, numbing your limbs with its insidious effect.</p>
- <p><quote>Ha! I know you, intruder,</quote> yells Cadak maniacally. <quote>You are Lone Wolf, the doomed hero of a doomed realm. You are a fool to come here, Kai Lord. Your powers are no match for those of Naar, the King of the Darkness.</quote></p>
- <p>With this he turns to the acolytes and throws up his hands triumphantly.</p>
- <p><quote>This night we shall celebrate a double victory, my brethren. The resurrection of Lord Vashna and the destruction of Grand Master Lone Wolf!</quote></p>
- <p>The acolytes scream their approval, but their cheer is drowned by the ever-increasing noise of the storm. Then you see that the storm itself is changing. A huge vortex of whirling cloud is descending from the heavens, a tornado whose deadly funnel is reaching down towards you. Then the tip of the roaring plume touches the ground at your feet and, with a terrifying suddenness, you are torn from the energy curtain and sent hurtling through the air towards the dark centre of the towering arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cease firing, having decided to conserve your remaining Arrows for later. After a few minutes the brigands suspect that one of their bolts has found its mark and they come creeping forwards.</p>
- <p>You retreat into the copse, using your Magnakai skills of Invisibility to keep you hidden from the advancing brigands. They pass you, enabling you to circle around behind them. You have outwitted them but you are still anxious that they may find Bracer. You move to higher ground in order to get a better view of the copse and, from a vantage point among the boulders, you observe their leader and three of his henchmen hiding nearby, crouched behind the bough of a fallen tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you wish to fire an Arrow at the brigand leader, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use the spell of <spell>Mind Charm</spell>, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you decide to wait and observe the brigands a little longer, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry down towards the circle of boulders, dragging your frozen horse behind you, eager to get him out of this icy gale. You are twenty metres from your goal when you are brought skidding to a halt by your hunting senses&emdash;something is wrong here. You listen and, to your horror, you detect the clacking of fangs and the scent of blood and greasy fur. Suddenly the clacking ceases and a terrifying howl arises from the far side of the boulders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you wish to mount your horse and gallop away from here, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you choose to draw your weapon and investigate what lurks on the other side of these boulders, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Easy, Smudd,</quote> you say, letting your hands drift away from your weapons, <quote>I mean you no harm. I just want to talk with you awhile, that's all.</quote></p>
- <p>The scrawny-faced knave looks at you with deep suspicion, his hand tightening around the hilt of his rapier.</p>
- <p><quote>Look,</quote> you say, reaching for your money pouch, <quote>I'm even prepared to pay for the privilege.</quote></p>
- <p>Slowly you remove five Gold Crowns and place them on the table (if you currently have less than five Gold Crowns, you give Smudd what you have <em>plus</em> one item from your Backpack).</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly, then <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You barely manage to utter the words of the spell before the deadly bolt slams into the magical shield. For a moment you are blinded by a splash of sparks which blister your face (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but you quickly recover and urge your horse onwards with renewed vigour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5"><link-text>Turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Inspired by your plan, you run towards the advancing line of automatons, taking care to keep a watchful eye on Demoness Shamath, and your goal&emdash;the distant Deathstaff.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 1. If you possess Telegnosis, add 1. Also, for every level of Kai mastery you have attained above the rank of Kai Grand Defender, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The crossing is laborious and tiring (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but at length you reach the far side of the river and disembark safely. A stony trail runs along the bank, heading north, and you follow it with high hopes of reaching Lake Vorndarol before sunset.</p>
- <p>All day the sun blazes supreme in a cloudless sky and waves of heat create a shimmering, distorted view of the trail ahead. The distant horizon is streaked with myriad colours and the dry air crackles with electricity, a legacy of last night's violent storm. Late in the afternoon you come to the ruins of an ancient settlement and stop here to allow your horse to rest awhile in the shade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The young woman smiles at you and begins to laugh.</p>
- <p><quote>You can't harm me, Lone Wolf,</quote> she says, full of confidence. <quote>You may as well sheathe that weapon for now, though you'll be needing it later I fancy.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Who are you? What do you want?</quote> you hiss, still clutching your weapon defensively. <quote>Are you some cursed illusion, some mind-trick of Naar's sent to entrap me? Well, demon, maybe this will wipe the smile off your face.</quote></p>
- <p>You strike the young woman a savage blow to the head but to no effect. She laughs again and says, with a mocking tone, <quote>Now do you believe me?</quote></p>
- <p>You back away, looking to either side for a way of escaping this creature, but there is none. She advances, and you regard her with fearful caution. She is wearing a worn leather jerkin and ragged trousers which are cut short at the knees, and does not appear to be armed with a weapon.</p>
- <p><quote>You should be more respectful,</quote> she says, <quote>after all, if I should decide to leave, who'll keep you hidden from the gaze of Shamath?</quote> She points to the giant demoness to illustrate who she means. <quote>Trinket or no,</quote> she continues, motioning to the Platinum Amulet you wear, <quote>you wouldn't last long against her without my help.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What do you want from me?</quote> you reply, uneasily.</p>
- <p><quote>Your attention would be a good start. Strange as it may seem, I wish to help you, Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On leaving the furriers' shop, you continue along the street until you reach a junction. The old woman's directions lead you through a warren of covered alleyways and narrow passages which eventually lead to the start of Tavern Lane, the street where she says you'll find the Crooked Sage Inn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332"><link-text>Turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You collect your horse and accompany Fyrad to his camp which is hidden in a hill cave. The hunter has made this bare rock hollow surprisingly comfortable with a fire, a straw mattress, and a rock-lined food store dug into its earthen floor. The two corvayl pelts he spoke of are hanging on wooden frames near the smouldering embers of the fire, and his mule, which he calls <quote>Izzy</quote>, is dozing at the rear of the cave.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>As you enter, a hawk swoops down from the roof and lands on Fyrad's arm.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="555"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="555"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>As you enter, a hawk swoops down from the roof and lands on Fyrad's arm. He produces a strip of dried meat from his pocket and the hawk takes it back to his perch to consume at his leisure.</p>
- <p><quote>Fine bird, that 'un,</quote> he says, fondly. <quote>He's led me to some rich quarry over the years.</quote></p>
- <p>Over a meal of rabbit and wild berries, you ask Fyrad what he knows about the Acolytes of Vashna and the Maakengorge. He says he has seen their camp on the east shore of the lake but, like the infamous gorge, only from a distance. His main cause for concern has been the storms and the Vakovarian bandits. If he did not have a hungry family and debts to meet in Karkaste, he would have packed up and gone home a month ago.</p>
- <p>After your delicious meal, you attend to your horse before settling down for the night. You offer to share the watch but Fyrad says this will not be necessary.</p>
- <p><quote>Best watchman you could ever wish for,</quote> he says, pointing to his pet hawk. <quote>He'll let us know in good time if trouble comes a-callin' tonight.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect66"><link-text>Turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the sun-sword and strike out at the approaching bolt in a desperate attempt to deflect it away. It strikes the edge of the blade and you are blinded by an eruption of searing white light. The Sommerswerd has negated the force of the bolt, rendering it harmless, but the shock of the impact sends you reeling backwards. As you fall you knock your head on a charred timber: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200">To continue, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A grimace spreads slowly across the Elder's face and sweat breaks out on his forehead as he tries to shut you out of his mind. Suddenly, he breaks the spell and his mouth opens wide. In your desperation to prevent him from sounding the alarm, you lash out with your clenched fist and punch him squarely on the jaw.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gwynian leads you into the derelict hovel and offers you a seat next to an ancient table carved from stone. Then he lowers himself carefully into a chair opposite and looks deeply into your eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>Lord Rimoah sent word to me in Varetta that you were on your way here,</quote> he says, taking a parchment envelope from the folds of his robes. <quote>I, and my fellow sages, have been observing the skies in this region for many months, and we are sure that an event of great and terrible importance is close at hand. The stars and the storms portend that an evil power is soon to appear on Magnamund.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Could it be the rising of Vashna?</quote> you ask, daring to voice your fear.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, we believe it to be Vashna. Unless you can prevent it, Lone Wolf, the Darklord and his army will rise from the Maakengorge.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess a Black Amulet, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shamath's laughter becomes a hideous screech. She mouths a word of power and a flood of psychic energy comes washing across the cavern towards you. Fortunately, it hits the force field and breaks like a wave against it, sparing you from its full effect. Even so, the residue which penetrates the wall is enough to leave you stunned and gasping for breath: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The Demoness flicks her fingers and instantly the wall is gone. But now you see that you are surrounded by a ring of her sinister, robed attendants.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The birds attack at such a tremendous speed that you dismiss the idea of using a Bow. Swiftly you draw your weapon&emdash;it has barely cleared its sheath when the first of the Scavengers swoop in for the kill. You are forced to release your grip on the guide rope and step back a few paces, for you are not the target of their attack: they are after your horse.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Durncrag Scavengers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">18</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic defence holds fast and the Elder learns nothing from his attempt to read your mind. Rather than admit to failure, he curses and denounces you as an empty-headed cretin.</p>
- <p>With a growl of disdain, he orders you to rejoin the procession and pushes you roughly out of his way as he strides back to his position beside the altar.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you steer Bracer off the track and into the surrounding undergrowth. Almost immediately you hear an angry voice shouting a command, followed by the sound of crossbow bolts in flight. A glance over your shoulder makes your heart leap&emdash;a bolt is speeding directly towards your face!</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an Arrow to your lips and fire it with blinding speed and accuracy. It pierces the heart of the leading acolyte, killing him instantly, and causes his partner to skid to a halt. Unnerved by your deadly prowess with a Bow, he turns and runs towards his brethren who are fighting at the quayside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">Erase one Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn your head slightly and see a pair of sandalled feet standing on the deck by your side. They belong to the Elder with whom you almost collided when you jumped aboard the longboat. He repeats his command and this time you recognize some of the words. You think he is saying something like: <quote>Move, or you'll be wounded.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you wish to move along the bench, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you decide to ignore his command, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Bah! Y' towheaded screwjaw,</quote> curses the drunkard when you refuse to pay his outrageous price. <quote>I've more pressin' things t' do than waste breath on you.</quote></p>
- <p>With this, he stumbles away into the fog, clutching his jug of ale. You watch him disappear, then you look again at the three exits from this square and try to fathom which one will lead you to the Crooked Sage Inn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you wish to leave the square by the north exit, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you wish to leave the square by the east exit, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to leave the square by the west exit, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It seems that the closer you get to the pool, the hotter the relic becomes. Another few steps and it will be hot enough to explode. Desperately, you fumble to retrieve it from the charred pocket of your tunic and hurl it away.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the distance you see a dim light flickering and twinkling at the heart of these ice mountains. You strike out towards it, across the frost-encrusted ground, and find yourself covering the distance far quicker than would ever be possible on Magnamund. A kilometre slips by at a single step and the surrounding terrain becomes impossible to focus on. Suspecting that you are the victim of some powerful illusion, you stride up to the flickering ice wall and thrust your hand against it. Effortlessly, your palm sinks into the glassy blue surface and you fall headlong into the icy mountainside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Vakovarians falls dead at your feet, you step away from their heaped bodies and wipe the sweat of battle from your bloodied brow. You have slain the enemy but you can hear more of their kind crashing through the undergrowth, eager to reach you and avenge the deaths of their brothers-in-arms.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Several of the dead have satchels, quivers and backpacks slung about their shoulders. Some have been torn open during the combat and their contents lie spilled out on the ground. A cursory glance reveals the following weapons and other items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>6 Arrows</li>
- <li>Comb</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Pipe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Spyglass</li>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Blanket</li>
- <li>20 Gold Crowns</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to mark them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you make your escape into the dense pines. The area is alive with bandits and you are forced to flee northwards, away from the place where you left Bracer tethered to a tree. You are anxious for his safety and mindful that there are still many miles to be covered before you reach Lake Vorndarol, but you dare not turn back for him. Then you hear something that makes you halt in your tracks: it is the sound of a horse whinnying.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect189-1-foot" idref="sect189-1">
- <p>The correct method for finding the solution of this riddle has eluded readers ever since <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite> was published (as befits a riddle posed by an immortal demoness). If you can find the correct solution, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon volunteers. The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect216">turn immediately to 216</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Attend with care to what I say, mortal,</quote> says the face of Shamath. <quote>When I have finished, I shall ask you this question: <quote>While I am here to do Naar's bidding, how many loyal servants guard my throne of power?</quote>&thinspace;</quote></p>
- <p>Shamath notes the look of concentration on your face and she allows herself a sneering laugh at your expense before she continues. She is confident that you will not defeat her in this intellectual contest. She begins:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><quote>In addition to the loyal servants, there are two Dwellers of the Abyss.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>When the loyal servants and the Dwellers of the Abyss were counted together, their total number was doubled when my Lieutenants of Night arrived.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But when my Lieutenants of Night arrived, the Dwellers of the Abyss had to leave.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Exactly half of the remaining number also departed, for they were beholden to the Dwellers.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>From the remainder I picked the loyal servants to guard my throne of power. I chose them all, except for one who was known to me as a traitor. I executed the traitor before I set my loyal servants to guard my throne.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>So, mortal, answer my question: while I am here to do Naar's bidding, how many loyal servants guard my throne of power?</quote></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Study the words of Shamath's riddle carefully. When you think you have the answer, turn to the entry which bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect189-1" idref="sect189-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you cannot answer Shamath's riddle, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Elder grabs your robe and pulls it open, revealing your leather tunic, cloak and breeches. Recognizing them at once to be Sommlending in origin, he gasps with shock as he guesses your true identity.</p>
- <choice idref="sect314"><link-text>Turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch from the edge of the warehouse roof as the assassin makes his escape. For a moment he halts beside a tall chimney stack and turns to look in your direction. Then three other shadowy figures emerge from behind the stack and stand at his shoulder. They stare at you silently for a few moments before turning and melting away into the night.</p>
- <p>Having decided not to follow, you make your way down from the warehouse roof and retrace your steps back to the stables of the Crooked Sage to collect your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass before the Elders without incident and follow the procession as it winds its way through the settlement. As it nears the perimeter, you pass beside some smaller huts where a few of the doors are open. Most of the huts are empty, but you notice one where a table near the door is stacked with captured weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to slip away from the procession and enter this weapons hut, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced Kai mastery, you alter your body weight so that you are able to glide over this soft section of the cavern floor and you soon reach firmer ground. With ease, you slip past the end of the line of automatons and race towards the dais.</p>
- <p>During your flight across the sagging floor, the Demoness was putting on an armoured breastplate of varnished black steel and was otherwise distracted. But she saw you get around the flank of her automatons and now she is aware of your plan. It is clear by the anger on her face that she has no intention of allowing you anywhere near the dais or the Deathstaff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your spine tingles with the presentiment of danger. Your senses warn that something evil is abroad this night and you are fearful that it will come upon you while you are sleeping. With this worry foremost in your mind, you stand at the mouth of the cave and use your Kai mastery to summon a woodland creature. A few minutes pass, then you sight a wildcat and its cub emerging from the pines. They have answered your call and obediently they submit to your will. You command them to guard the cave mouth, then you settle down to rest, confident in the knowledge that they will wake you at the first sign of trouble.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small8.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small8.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The face of the worm is changing. It no longer resembles your brother Jen; it has taken on the haughty visage of the Demoness Shamath.</p>
- <p><quote>Ha!</quote> she snorts. <quote>How puny and insignificant you mortals are. There can be no sport for me in the easy slaying of your kind, for it is too easy. There is no challenge. Therefore I, Shamath, Mistress of the Gates of Darkness, shall devise one. I challenge you to a duel&ellips; a duel of intellect!</quote></p>
- <p>The great worm-thing retreats towards the dais and the darkened walls of the cavern are suddenly illuminated by a thousand jets of flame, which roar from jets set into the smooth, glassy floor.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> she says, fixing you with her supernatural eyes, <quote>let the combat begin.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect189"><link-text>Turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the Elder is hauling you off the bench, your robe gets snagged on a splinter and it rises up to reveal your boots and scabbard. The Elder is now angry and suspicious; he shouts at you, demanding to know how you came to be in possession of these items.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;6, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If it is 7&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speed across the room and lunge for the archer as he exits through the window. Your hand grabs hold of his breeches and you try to drag him back into the room, but he kicks free and leaves you clutching a fragment of cloth torn from the leg of his trousers.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to pursue the man onto the balcony, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you decide to let him go, you can leave the inn by the front door by <link-text>turning to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unshoulder your Bow and draw an Arrow with one swift and fluid movement. Then, as the beast's head crosses your line of sight, you release the shaft and send it whistling towards its gaping jaws.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Weaponmastery with Bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect272">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your teeth clenched tightly against the fearful stench that is arising from the grave, you scrape away the remaining earth and stones and begin to search through the corpse's robes. There is little of value to be found here, nothing that the brigands have not already picked over. You are about to abandon this unpleasant task when suddenly you notice something protruding from the corpse's boot. It is a hexagonal token engraved with strange symbols, and it is made from the same black, metallic substance as the amulet given to you by President Kadharian.</p>
- <p>You decide to keep this item. (Record this Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Black Token which you carry in your pocket. If you already carry the maximum number of Special Items permissible, you must discard one in its favour.) Having satisfied your curiosity, you leave the gravesite and return to your horse, eager to continue your journey as quickly as you can.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and shake your head to clear your blurred vision. The first thing you see when your sight returns to normal is the attacking longboat as it collides with the Vakovarian ship. With a deafening screech of twisting metal and shearing timbers, it shudders along the length of the starboard side, sending the brigands who are aboard cartwheeling helplessly across the deck. Grappling lines are cast and boarding planks lowered, and before the Vakovarians can recover, a screaming horde of red-robed acolytes are amongst them, slaying all without quarter.</p>
- <p>On the quayside the Vakovarians are gripped by panic. Many flee to the ruins, but there is a core of battle-hardened ex-mercenaries who band together and attempt a counterattack. Bloody fighting rages along the quayside as the acolytes try to recapture the three who are tied to the stone obelisk. The prisoners are eventually saved by a trio of Acolyte Elders, each of whom is armed with a glowing wand that discharges an incinerating blast of energy against any brigand foolish enough to stand in their way. The Elders retreat to the long boat with the freed prisoners, but the fighting has started to spread beyond the quay. There is a sudden noise to your left, and when you turn to face it, you see two Acolytes of Vashna racing along the street towards you with bloodied swords held ready to strike you down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect140">If you have none of these, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare into the man's steel-blue eyes and, using your psychic skill, implant in his mind the suggestion that he should put his crossbow on the ground. You are hoping he will comply with your command so that you can attempt to get away, but then he says something which makes that idea redundant.</p>
- <p><quote>You're no bandit,</quote> he muses. <quote>No, by thunder, you look like a Sommlending to me.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect13"><link-text>Turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>President Kadharian is a tall, muscular man whose stern countenance reflects his unmistakably military background. He gives a formal salute, then he offers you his strong hand in friendship. You accept readily, without hesitation.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>He offers you his strong hand in friendship.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="636"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="636"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> he says, his jade-green eyes glinting warmly in the torchlit hall. <quote>I am deeply honoured that you have answered my call. I trust your journey to Helgor was not too difficult?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I encountered no problems that couldn't be overcome,</quote> you reply.</p>
- <p><quote>Good, good,</quote> he says, and gives a knowing laugh. Then he bids you accompany him as he crosses the floor of the senate hall and pushes open the door to a smaller adjoining room.</p>
- <p><quote>And now to the business in hand. I shall endeavour to explain the reasons why I felt it necessary to request your help, Grand Master.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Darkness descends as you ride down from the hill pass, but the twisting trail is kept illuminated by a spectacular host of twinkling lights which swoop and soar above the glimmering waters of the lake. It is a wondrous display but you are not deceived into thinking that all is well. There is a great and evil magic at work here; you can sense it.</p>
- <p>You have ridden to within five kilometres of Vorn when you are forced to leave the trail and take cover. Ahead you see a group of Vakovarian bandits encamped on a bridge which carries the trail across a fast-flowing stream. Rather than risk a confrontation, you take cover in a wooded grove and spend a restless night waiting for the dawn. Due to the proximity of the enemy, you are unable to sleep&emdash;lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">To continue, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fear tightens its grip on your senses as you move slowly towards the arch. You are terrified by the thought of what might happen when you enter, but you dare not falter now. If you refuse to enter the arch, the Acolytes of Vashna will know that you are not one of them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you possess the Dagger of Vashna, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you possess Helshezag, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you do not possess either of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ferocity of their attack leaves you sprawled on the floor of the cave, holding your aching head with both hands. Having encountered unexpected resistance, the phantoms veer away and vanish into the clouds. They have gone, but not for long. Within minutes they return with seven more of their ghostly brothers in train.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess Kai-surge, and have reached the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have difficulty controlling the tremendous forces contained within the Deathstaff. Some of the Vortexi are able to seize upon this weakness and break away from the spinning cyclone to make good their attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. However, due to the insidious effect of the Deathstaff, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 3 prior to the start of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hut has long been deserted but it still offers you and your horse good protection against the elements. It is watertight and there is sufficient straw on the floor to feed your mount and keep you warm during the night.</p>
- <p>Before you settle down to rest, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Sheltered from the foul storm, you are able to get a good night's rest. You awake the following morning feeling invigorated: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">To continue, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through a gap in the boulders you see a pack of eight ridge-backed Jackals feeding on the carcass of a Durncrag Scavenger, a vulture-like bird of prey. They are engrossed in their meal until they detect the scent of their most favoured food: live horsemeat.</p>
- <p>With another frenzied howl the wild Jackals abandon the feathery carcass and come streaming through the gap in the boulders, drawn by the scent of your horse. They seem to know that he is in a weakened state and this fuels their fury. Your horse takes fright and tries to pull away, his hooves flailing the air perilously close to your skull, and as the first of the Jackals make its attack, you find yourself struggling to hold on to the reins with one hand and fight off the Jackals with the other.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vorndarol Jackals</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess Grand Weaponmastery and have reached the rank of Sun Knight or higher, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">You may evade combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gallop down the muddy track towards a cleft in the gully which is protected by the overhanging ledge. Here you command Bracer to halt, but he does not respond as you would wish. He paws at the ground and refuses to stand still. You feel sure that the lightning flashes, the burning trees, and the deafening cracks of thunder are the reasons why he is so unsettled. In an attempt to calm him down, you draw on your innate Kai skill of Animal Kinship. In doing so, you suddenly discover the real reason why he is so agitated.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319"><link-text>Turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull your horse back from the body of the dead corvayl and gallop away in case there are others of its kind lurking nearby. Beyond the plateau, the trail descends steeply towards a thick pine wood. Milky-white pools of water punctuate this section of the track, some deceptively deep, making the descent difficult and tiring. By the time you reach the wood your horse is in need of rest.</p>
- <p>You dismount to take the weight off his back, and as you gather his reins together you notice that the flap of your Backpack is undone. On checking the contents you discover that one of your possessions is missing. (Erase the second item on your list of Backpack Items. If you have only one item on your list, erase that one instead.)</p>
- <p>As soon as your horse is rested, you remount him and set off through the pine wood heading east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of the Kai Camouflage skills makes you virtually undetectable. The Vakovarians search the inn thoroughly but they fail to find you, even though one passes so close that he treads on your foot.</p>
- <p>You wait until they have gone, then you leave the inn and make your way down through the ruins towards the lake, taking care to avoid those other Vakovarians who are out looting. The burnt-out shell of a meeting hall offers you an unobstructed view of the quay and its flagstoned square. You hide here, invisible among the charred roof timbers, and watch as a curious scene unfolds on the quayside outside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163"><link-text>Turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus on the brigand leader as you whisper the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>. You will him to send away his henchmen and, when he is alone, you close in on him from behind without making a sound.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119"><link-text>Turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You level the Deathstaff at the Arch Druid, and say, <quote>This is the key to the resurrection of Vashna; without it your Demoness will be powerless to summon him.</quote></p>
- <p>Cadak laughs sneeringly at your words. <quote>And how long do you think you will keep it from her, Kai Lord? Did you think that the Demoness Shamath will have difficulty taking it from you? No, she will not. You are doomed, Lone Wolf. Why don't you admit it? You were doomed the moment you returned from the great arch.</quote></p>
- <p>Your hatred for the evil druid wells up and you suddenly feel a tingling sensation engulf your hands. Your emotion has activated the power of the Deathstaff and, without warning, a swirling cone of grey vapour emerges from its tip and coils towards Cadak. He yelps with shocked surprise and raises his staff to fend off the attack. He is successful, but at great cost to his magical stamina.</p>
- <p>You, too, feel the draining effect of this accursed staff (lose 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and your Kai senses scream a warning not to use it again in combat for fear of the consequences. Next time you could lose more than <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points&emdash;you could lose your soul!</p>
- <choice idref="sect252"><link-text>Turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your power on a small pile of rocks lying at the edge of an outcrop which overhangs the boulder. The vibrations that you set up dislodge the rocks and make them cascade on to the boulder beneath. Suddenly, there is a cry of alarm and a man springs up from behind the boulder, shielding his head with both arms as he scurries out in the open to avoid the deluge. He is a grey-bearded man, clad in furs and armed with an expensive-looking crossbow which is slung by a leather strap around his shoulder. By his looks you judge him to be a hunter, not a brigand.</p>
- <p>Coughing and spitting dust, he wipes his face with his hairy hands then turns to look in your direction. You sense that he is about to reach for his crossbow, but when you raise your hand in a show of friendship, he pauses and narrows his eyes, as if he is trying to get a clearer look at you.</p>
- <p><quote>You're no Vakovarian,</quote> he muses. <quote>No, by thunder, you look like a Sommlending to me.</quote></p>
- <p>Chuckling under his breath, he makes his way down the slope and comes walking towards you with a broad smile on his weather-beaten face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wave of panic sweeps through the crowded inn. Women shriek hysterically and gruff voices shout in anger and confusion, demanding Smudd's killer be found. You back away from the alcove and, as you turn towards the counter, you catch a glimpse of a figure running along the gallery which overlooks the taproom floor. He is clad from head to toe in a close-fitting black tunic and he is carrying a bow. You watch helplessly as he disappears through a door which leads off the gallery.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You catch a glimpse of a figure running along the gallery.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to climb an adjoining staircase and give chase, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you choose to leave the inn by the front door, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Demoness laughs with disdain at your inability to answer her riddle. She denounces you as unworthy of her presence and says that, although she will derive little pleasure from it, she is now going to have to kill you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demoness Shamath (in the guise of Gnekasha the Worm-thrall)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sheathe your weapon and hold out your open palms to show that you have no intention of harming them. They seem to respond to this gesture and they allow you to approach and examine their sickly child. You tell them that you can help their son and, using your innate Healing skills, you place your hands upon the boy's chest and let your Kai power flow through into his fever-wracked body. Within a few moments he stirs to consciousness and gives a healthy cry; you have saved his life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277"><link-text>Turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the perimeter of the settlement the path steadily gets steeper as it ascends into the hills. The torch-bearing line of acolytes illuminates the rocky landscape with flickering shadows as slowly they zigzag their way eastwards. Another storm is brewing; the eastern sky is alive with electrical activity and thunder booms beyond the horizon. Your ears pop as the air pressure fluctuates wildly and the howl of the wind seems to be growing ever louder. Then you notice something strange. Your torch does not seem to be affected by the storm; it is burning as smoothly as if you were in an enclosed room. You glance over your shoulder and see that the same is true of every other torch. It is as if the procession is being protected from the outside elements by an invisible tunnel.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small7.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small7.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Two kilometres from the settlement you pass a group of acolyte youths, all in their early teens, who are calling encouragement, chanting, and waving the line onwards. Then the path bends and you see a wayside altar and a large marble trough filled with stagnant green water. As they file past, every acolyte dips his right hand into the trough and touches it to his heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you possess a Black Token, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shuffle along the bench, hoping that this will appease the Elder, but it merely serves to anger him. He shouts at you and, thinking that you are being deliberately insubordinate, he grabs your robe in both hands and pulls you roughly to your feet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255">If you possess a Runic Disc, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately you recognize the man: he is Gwynian, the Sage of Varetta.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master. It has been a long time since we last met. Come, step into my humble abode. The time has come once more for us to discuss the future.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect178"><link-text>Turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery informs you that this creature is telling the truth. You also sense that she is not human, she is a supernatural creature, not of your world or this. You scan her mind but it is impossible for you to penetrate her psychic defences. She seems to possess contradictory qualities; she is both good and evil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286"><link-text>Turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap into the saddle and steer your terrified horse away from the frenzied Jackals. Bloodied in combat, they stand off just long enough for you to urge your horse to a gallop and get away along the shore. With the help of your Kai mastery, he crosses the difficult terrain with agility, despite his fatigue, and soon reaches firmer ground where he is able to increase his pace and escape from the howling pack.</p>
- <p>The Jackals command the shore and you are forced to retrace your steps all the way back to the fork in the trail and take the other path that leads into the foothills. By the time you arrive here, you are tired and very hungry. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat 1 Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your keen Kai senses detect the warm scent of horse flesh on the air, mingling with the sharp tang of the surrounding pine trees. Hopeful that it is Bracer, escaped from the brigands and come to find you, you push through the densely-packed trees until you stumble upon a clearing. Here you discover that it is not Bracer after all; you have found the brigands' horses.</p>
- <p>They are unguarded and you cannot sense their owners close by, but even so you take every care not to startle them. Silently you untether one of the stallions and lead him away from the rest of the horses, along a trail which is covered with fresh tracks, and soon you come to a wider trail which winds away to the north. Here you mount the horse and set off along this rocky trail, but you have gone little more than half a mile when you smell something that makes you rein your new horse to a halt. From a wooded gully away to your right you detect the scent of death being carried on the afternoon breeze.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If you wish to investigate the wooded gully, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you choose to avoid it and ride on, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You intensify your vision and focus upon the figure who commands the crystal dais. Shock freezes your spine when you recognize at once the face and flowing platinum hair of Arch Druid Cadak, ruler of Mogaruith, the usurper lord of Kaag. He has grown strong since your last fateful encounter, and now it seems that he is poised to fulfil the Dark God Naar's lust for vengeance by releasing Vashna and his hordes from the depths of the Maakengorge.</p>
- <p>You take your place among the throng who are kneeling before the dais, and hear Cadak's voice ring out above the howling storm.</p>
- <p><quote>I summon forth from the Vortex of the Planes the Deliverer of Vashna, Mighty Lord of Darkness, Prince of the Legions of the Restless Dead. Come to us. Come to us now and fulfil our destiny. We, the worthy, now prove our faith in the undying power of Vashna.</quote></p>
- <p>With these words, the acolytes utter a chilling cry of affirmation and rise to their feet. By rank they follow the Elders in single file towards a smaller, shimmering metallic arch which stands to one side of the crystal dais, almost obscured by the glare of the larger one. One by one they file through this archway, under the watchful gaze of Cadak, and then return to their places where they kneel and pray.</p>
- <p>As you approach the smaller arch, you sense a curtain of power drawn across it. Anxiously you pray to the Gods Kai and Ishir to protect you as you prepare to pass through this invisible barrier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wrench the Deathstaff from the dais and sag beneath its unnatural weight. The moment you raise it into the air, the Demoness spins around to stare at you, sending her attendants flying in all directions. She screams with unholy anger and the noise of her wrath lifts you bodily and sends you skidding across the floor.</p>
- <p>Desperately you fight to maintain your grip on the Deathstaff as the furious Shamath gets to her feet. She comes striding towards you, bolts of energy darting from her fingertips to rip open the ground as you stumble away towards the yawning black tunnel. The deafening shriek of Shamath's voice rings in your ears as you clutch the Deathstaff to your chest and leap head first into the oblivion of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tether your horse's reins to a peg beside the door and step into the welcoming warmth of the furriers' shop. Immediately you are assailed by the greasy stench of the furs which fill this emporium. They hang in rows from ornate brass hooks driven into the wooden walls and ceiling rafters, sorted by size and type. Three young men, all strikingly similar in looks, are busy trimming wolf pelts at a work bench. Behind the counter stands a grey-haired old woman with a straight back and clear, milky-white skin. She smiles and asks if you wish to buy or sell furs.</p>
- <p><quote>Neither, madam,</quote> you reply, politely, <quote>I'm trying to find my way to an inn called the Crooked Sage.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Oh, you are, are you?</quote> she mumbles, disappointedly, her welcoming smile fading as she abandons hopes of striking up a deal with you. Then her smile returns and she says, <quote>Well, sir, I'll be glad to tell you&ellips; but only if you buy something first. If you won't buy any of my furs, then I'll sell you the information you want for five Gold Crowns. What do you say?</quote></p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>She smiles and asks if you wish to buy or sell furs.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="633"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="633"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Without replying, you step away from the counter and look up. On a square of black slate hanging above the old woman's head are chalked the following items and prices:</p>
- <table>
- <tr>
- <td>Coney-skin Mitts</td>
- <td>5 Gold Crowns a pair</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>Wolfskin Cloaks</td>
- <td>12 Gold Crowns each</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>Wildcat Pelts</td>
- <td>12 Gold Crowns each</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>Bearskin Cloaks</td>
- <td>16 Gold Crowns each</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>White Wolf Pelts</td>
- <td>18 Gold Crowns each</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>Kalkoth Hides</td>
- <td>20 Gold Crowns each</td>
- </tr>
- <tr>
- <td>Black Corvayl Cloaks</td>
- <td>35 Gold Crowns each</td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- <choice idref="sect174">All of the above furs are Backpack Items. If you wish to purchase any (or should you decide to pay 5 Gold Crowns for directions to the Crooked Sage), deduct the appropriate amount of Gold Crowns and adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly. Then, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you decide not to buy any furs, or pay for the information, <link-text>turn instead to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Arrow streaks into the bushes and you hear it shatter against the rocks behind. Then you hear the faint scrape of leather on stone, above and to the side. You turn to look and a man's voice growls, <quote>Don't move!</quote></p>
- <p>Standing between two boulders away to your left is a grey-bearded man clad in furs and clutching a loaded crossbow. The weapon is pointing directly at your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you possess the Discipline of Telegnosis, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you do not possess this skill, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Ha! I know you, intruder,</quote> yells Cadak, maniacally, <quote>You are Lone Wolf, the doomed hero of a doomed realm. You are a fool to come here, Kai Lord. Your powers are no match for those of Naar, the King of the Darkness.</quote></p>
- <p>With this he turns to the acolytes and throws up his hands triumphantly.</p>
- <p><quote>This night we shall celebrate a double victory, my brethren. The resurrection of Lord Vashna and the destruction of Grand Master Lone Wolf!</quote></p>
- <p>The acolytes scream their approval, but their cheer is drowned by the ever-increasing noise of the storm. Then you see that the storm itself is changing. A huge vortex of whirling cloud is descending from the heavens, a tornado whose deadly funnel is reaching down towards you. Then the tip of the roaring plume touches the ground at your feet and, with a terrifying suddenness, you are torn from the energy curtain and sent hurtling through the air towards the dark centre of the towering arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect229-1-foot" idref="sect229-1">
- <p>Since this attack is described as a <quote>Kai-blast</quote>, you should deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current score.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="sect229-2-foot" idref="sect229-2">
- <p>The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You open the depths of your mind and summon forth a glowing ball of Kai energy which you project at the leading phantom.<a id="sect229-1" idref="sect229-1-foot" class="footnote" /> This fiery ball of psychic power rips into the creature's ghostly form and causes it to shriek with agony. Your Kai-blast has wounded this entity, but it has not stopped its attack. It gathers itself and swoops down upon you, like a hungry vulture descending on a corpse.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi (weakened by Kai-blast)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">22</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. If you possess the Sommerswerd, restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score.<a id="sect229-2" idref="sect229-2-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A kilometre beyond the cove the shoreline trail becomes littered with boulders and huge mounds of muddy earth. It is the debris of landslides from the surrounding hills, a consequence of the violent storms. It soon becomes impossible to continue on horseback and you are forced to dismount and make your way on foot, with your horse trailing behind you.</p>
- <p>During this difficult trek an icy squall arises, driven by a gale-force wind which whips the shoreline mercilessly. Your innate skills of Nexus protect you from the cold, but your horse is not so lucky. You know that you must find shelter from this bitter wintery squall, and quickly, if he is to survive.</p>
- <p>As you reach the top of a rocky mound, you see below you a cluster of huge boulders grouped in a horseshoe shape near the lake's edge; they promise good protection from the squall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gamblers are enraged that their privacy has been invaded. They crowd in on you, demanding an explanation, but you push them aside and leave the room without uttering a word. At the bottom of the gallery stairs you are met by an excited throng of people, still shocked and angered by Smudd's murder. Some openly blame you and attempt to stop you from leaving. By the time you have forced your way across the taproom to the doors of the inn, your face is bleeding and your body is bruised from their kicks and punches.</p>
- <p>You stumble out into the street and, as you turn towards the stables to go and retrieve your horse, your eagle eyes catch a glimpse of movement on a second storey balcony. It is the archer you saw a few minutes ago, the man in black who fled from the gallery. With bated breath you watch as he climbs on to the balcony rail and leaps across the narrow street on to the roof of the building opposite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274"><link-text>Turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Terror grips your heart as you feel yourself sinking into the cavern floor. Your feet have completely disappeared from sight when suddenly the sinking sensation stops&ellips; but the terror goes on. Suddenly you hear a hideous squeaking sound high above your head. You look up into the vaulted ceiling and gasp with dread as a writhing cloud of Crypt Spawn come plummeting down towards your face.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Spawn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">43</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 for the duration of this fight due to your immobility.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon the temperature begins to drop and the great grey wall of fog condenses and falls as rain. This rain freezes and you quickly find yourself surrounded by a wall of glittering ice which stretches like a range of jagged glass mountains from horizon to horizon.</p>
- <p>In the distance you see a dim light flickering and twinkling at the heart of these ice mountains. You strike out towards it, across the frost-encrusted ground, and find yourself covering the distance far quicker than would ever be possible on Magnamund. A kilometre slips by at a single step and the surrounding terrain becomes impossible to focus on.</p>
- <p>Suspecting that you are the victim of some powerful illusion, you stride up to the flickering ice wall and thrust your hand against it. Effortlessly, your palm sinks into the glassy blue surface and you fall headlong into the icy mountainside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove the Amulet from your pocket and hand it to the old sage.</p>
- <p><quote>President Kadharian gave me this. It was found on the shore of Lake Vorndarol, near the ruins of Vorn, by a rogue who went by the name of Smudd. I tracked him to a tavern in Helgor but he was assassinated before he could tell me anything more about it. Can you?</quote></p>
- <p>Gwynian holds the Amulet close to his myopic eyes and examines the engravings with great care.</p>
- <p>After a short while he says, <quote>It is a seal. It's an amulet of fealty worn by the Acolytes of Vashna,</quote> he says sadly. <quote>It would seem to confirm our fears. I have seen amulets such as this before, but none crafted from such a metal. This is a metal not of this world.</quote></p>
- <p>Gwynian hands back the Amulet and you return it to your pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect235-1-foot" idref="sect235-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect141">turn immediately to 141</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first attempt at deciphering the secret of the crystal dais was not successful and a new sequence of numbers materializes upon the surface of the upper tier.</p>
- <p>This time the sequence appears to be harder. Now you will need to bring to bear all your Kai skill and intelligence if you are to break the code and close the Shadow Gate in time. Or will you be defeated by your old enemy, Arch Druid Cadak, even after his death?</p>
- <p>Study the following grid of numbers carefully. When you think you know the missing number, turn to the entry which bears the same number as your answer.<a id="sect235-1" idref="sect235-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small14.gif" width="386" height="196"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small14.pdf" width="386" height="196"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you cannot solve the problem, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A ball of lightning comes hurtling towards your head. Desperately, you pull your horse away to avoid being hit, but the fiery meteor changes course in mid-flight as if guided by an unseen hand. Instinctively, you draw your Weapon and raise it to defend yourself from the onrushing ball of energy, suspecting it to be a spectral enemy in disguise. Then, with a blinding flash, it impacts upon your weapon and you are hurled from the saddle amidst a shower of glowing sparks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If the weapon you are wielding is a Bow or a Quarterstaff, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you are wielding any other type of weapon, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced Kai mastery you can tell that, along with the heat, the token is giving off intense ultraviolet radiation. It is a cursed relic which has been activated by its proximity to the pool of stagnant water. The closer you get to the pool, the hotter and more reactive the relic becomes. Another few steps and it will explode. Knowing this, you fumble to retrieve it from the smoking pocket of your tunic, and hurl it away.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect316">If it is 2&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Who found this amulet?</quote> you ask.</p>
- <p><quote>A rogue, one who goes by the name of Smudd,</quote> answers Kadharian. <quote>A patrol found him in the mountains close by the River Storn, a few days after the second troop went missing. When he couldn't give a good reason for being there, they arrested him and brought him back to Helgor for <em>questioning</em>.</quote></p>
- <p>Kadharian's emphasis on the word <quote>questioning</quote> leaves you in no doubt that Smudd's interrogation probably involved some degree of torture.</p>
- <p><quote>Where is he now?</quote> you ask. <quote>I'd like to, er, question him myself.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>He's in Helgor. He stays at the Crooked Sage, an inn in the north quarter of the city. I'd willingly send a detachment of Palace Guards to fetch him here but that quarter of Helgor is rife with villains. Word would be sure to get out and he'd go to ground. My men would never find him. No, I'm afraid the only likely way you'll get to speak to Smudd is by going to the Crooked Sage in person.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Very well, President,</quote> you reply, <quote>then that is exactly what I shall do.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect84"><link-text>Turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>We have an intruder in our midst,</quote> screams Cadak. You fight the paralysing effect of the current and, for a moment, its effect weakens. Then the crimson current intensifies anew, numbing your limbs with its insidious effect.</p>
- <p><quote>Ha! I know you, intruder,</quote> yells Cadak, maniacally, <quote>You are Lone Wolf, the doomed hero of a doomed realm. You are a fool to come here, Kai Lord. Your powers are no match for those of Naar, the King of the Darkness.</quote></p>
- <p>With this he turns to the acolytes and throws up his hands triumphantly. <quote>This night we shall celebrate a double victory, my brethren. The resurrection of Lord Vashna and the destruction of Grand Master Lone Wolf!</quote></p>
- <p>The acolytes scream their approval, but their cheer is drowned by the ever-increasing noise of the storm. Then you see that the storm itself is changing. A huge vortex of whirling cloud is descending from the heavens, a tornado whose deadly funnel is reaching down towards you. Then the tip of the roaring plume touches the ground at your feet and, with a terrifying suddenness, you are torn from the energy curtain and sent hurtling through the air towards the dark centre of the towering arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last automaton drops at your feet, you sheathe your weapon and race towards the dais. During your fight, the Demoness was putting on an armoured breastplate of varnished black steel and was otherwise distracted. But she saw you slay the last of her automatons and now she is aware of your plan. She has no intention of allowing you anywhere near the dais or the Deathstaff.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you leave the trail, steering Bracer through the undergrowth towards the cover of a dense pine copse. Here, you quickly dismount and tie his reins to a tree before going forward to see what you can find.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You soon discover that a gang of brigands are lying in ambush.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="599"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="599"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You soon discover that a gang of brigands are lying in ambush, well hidden among the boulders that line both sides of the trail. Your Kai Hunting skills enable you to circle around and get behind them without being seen and, from a high vantage point among the boulders, you observe their leader and three of his henchmen hiding behind the bough of a fallen tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess a Bow and wish to fire an Arrow at the brigand leader, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use the spell of <spell>Mind Charm</spell>, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you decide to wait and observe the brigands a little longer, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly the cavern begins to darken and the towering body of the Demoness shimmers and changes into a new and totally repugnant form: she has taken on the guise of a huge crawling worm. Her slimy flanks are studded with a multitude of tiny tendrils, and her head is equipped with a sphincter-like maw which drips loathsome green saliva. She slithers closer and, in the half-light, you catch sight of her ghastly face. It is like that of an infant, wholly black, save for the eyes which are aglow with a hellish red fire.</p>
- <p>The worm-thing rears up and, as the head sweeps past your eyes a second time, you suddenly recognize the facial features and a paralysing blast of psychic shock rips through your mind. It has the face of your long-dead brother Jen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You turn your head slightly and see a pair of sandalled feet standing on the deck by your side. They belong to the Elder whom you almost collided with when you jumped aboard the longboat. He repeats his command and this time, aided by your Kai mastery, you understand what he says. He is commanding you to get up and go forward to the bow and help with the carrying of some wounded acolytes to the stern.</p>
- <p>You nod to signify you acknowledge his order yet you do not raise your head&emdash;to do so would risk him seeing your face. Unfortunately, as you rise from the bench, your robe gets snagged on a splinter and is pulled up to reveal your boots and scabbard. The Elder becomes suspicious and he demands to know how you came to be in possession of these items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you possess a Runic Disc, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you wish to say that you took them from a dead Vakovarian during the battle at the quay, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you choose to pretend that you did not hear him, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden less than twenty metres when a sudden gust of wind thins out the cloying fog, revealing the dark entrance to an alleyway off to your right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to explore this alley, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you decide to ignore it and continue on your way along this street, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you hurry towards the end of the procession, an Elder steps out from behind a boulder and grabs you by the shoulder, commanding you to halt. Then you feel a tingling sensation, as if a horde of spiders were crawling in a line from your shoulder to the nape of your neck; the Elder has psychic abilities and he is attempting to probe your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A shudder runs through the dais and fingers of green electrical fire shoot from the tip of the Deathstaff into the ground below. There is a moment of dreadful silence when even the storm and the rain abate, then the air shakes with a terrific implosion as the great shimmering arch collapses inwards and slowly disintegrates. Sparkling sheets of energy buckle and fuse as segments of the arch fall to the ground, crushing everything beneath, rock and man. For an instant you catch a glimpse of a huge booted foot stepping through a silvery sheet of energy and you tremble at the thought of what will happen next, for you recognize only too well to whom the foot belongs. But in the very next instant the keystone of the arch falls away and, with a grating cry of tortured rock, the whole edifice comes crashing to the ground.</p>
- <p>Then, as if from nowhere, a raging whirlwind arises in mid-air, at the centre of where the arch stood. This whirling vortex quickly builds in power until it is sucking everything into its spinning black core. Screaming acolytes tumble past and disappear into its maw as you desperately hang on to the dais to stop yourself from being sucked to your doom.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 14 or higher, add 2 to the number you picked.</p>
- <p>If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 13 or lower, deduct 1 from the number you picked.</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Knight, add 5 to the number you picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect350">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you sense it is safe to do so, you stop to catch your breath and examine the contents of the satchel, which you empty out on to the ground. It contains the following items:</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <ul>
- <li>80 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Quiver (containing 3 Arrows)</li>
- <li>Bottle of Wine</li>
- <li>Spyglass</li>
- <li>Ruby Ring</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>The area is alive with bandits and you are forced to flee northwards, away from the place where you left Bracer tethered to a tree. You are anxious for his safety and mindful that there are still many kilometres to be covered before you reach Lake Vorndarol, but you dare not turn back for him. Then you hear something that makes you halt in your tracks: it is the sound of a horse whinnying.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having decided not to approach the circle of boulders, the only option left to you is to turn back to the fork in the trail and take the other path that leads into the foothills. By the time you arrive there, you are tired and very hungry. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">To continue, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your power of Animal Control on the leader of this predatory flock and will him to abandon his attack. The speed of his descent is making it difficult for you to target him, but your persistence and your Kai skills overcome this. At the last moment the ugly black bird banks away, cawing frantically, and the remainder of his flock follow suit without pressing home their attack. You watch with grim satisfaction as the flock return to the mountains, cawing with frustration, their hunger unsatiated.</p>
- <p>You manage to regain control of the raft and, at length, you reach the far side of the river and disembark safely. A stony trail runs along the bank, heading north, and you follow it with high hopes of reaching Lake Vorndarol before sunset. All day the sun blazes supreme in a cloudless sky and waves of heat create a shimmering, distorted view of the trail ahead. The distant horizon is streaked with myriad colours and the dry air crackles with electricity, a legacy of last night's violent storm. Late in the afternoon you come to the ruins of an ancient settlement and stop here to allow your horse to rest awhile in the shade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three kilometres you trek stolidly through the hills towards a deep magenta glow that is bathing the horizon. Then as you round a knoll of rock shaped like an accusing skeletal finger, you are confronted by a spectacle which leaves you staring open-mouthed with awe and horror.</p>
- <p>An expanse of dead land, littered with cracked and shattered rocks, slopes down to the edge of an immense chasm that stretches more than a kilometre from rim to rim. It is the Maakengorge. Hordes of screeching Vortexi ride a violent electrical storm which rages in the clouds above this vast abyss, and the earth shudders in echoing response to the booming thunder. Near the rim of the chasm there stands a towering arch, hewn of stone, that shimmers with such a supernatural brilliance that you cannot fully focus upon it. Peering closer you see before the arch an elaborate, multi-tiered dais constructed entirely of crystal. Around it kneel hundreds of acolytes who are chanting devoutly. Their dreary voices add to the dreadful noise.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You follow the procession as it winds its way towards the dais.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="572"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="572"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You follow the procession as it winds its way towards the dais and soon you see that a solitary figure is standing upon its uppermost tier. He faces the shimmering arch, his hands outstretched, and with every movement of his fingers there is a subtle shift in the spectrum of colours within the angry clouds above. It is as if he is manipulating the storm as a conductor would an orchestra. With a grand sweep of his arms he calms the turbulent sky, then he turns to face his kneeling congregation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">If you have ever been to Kaag or Mogaruith, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you have never been to these city-fortresses, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tip of your Arrow clips the man's calf and you hear him yelp with pain. But the wound is superficial and it does not prevent him from making his escape out on to the balcony.</p>
- <p>With weapon in hand, you climb out of the window. You are expecting the archer to attack you the moment you appear but the balcony is deserted: he has disappeared. Then your keen eyes notice fresh bloodstains on the balcony rail and you catch a glimpse of movement on the roof of the building opposite. It is the archer. Despite his wounded leg he has leapt across the narrow street and is now making his escape across the rooftops of the north quarter.</p>
- <p>With the grace of a panther you spring on to the balcony rail and leap across to the roof opposite. Without breaking your stride, you set off after the fleeing assassin and pursue him to the edge of a flat-topped warehouse at the end of Tavern Lane. Here a plank of wood has been laid down to span the gap of fifteen metres to the rooftop opposite. The man limps across the plank, then kicks it away to prevent you from following him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you are determined to follow him and wish to try to leap across the gap, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If you do not wish to make the jump, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that Cadak is playing for time. It is his wish to keep you imprisoned within this umbrella of light until the Demoness Shamath arrives. Then you recall the words of the young girl whom you encountered in the cavern&emdash;<thought>Be brave, Grand Master. But most of all&emdash;be swift!</thought></p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you possess Kai-surge and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you possess neither of these skills, or if you choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your advanced healing skills to staunch the flow of blood from your gashed neck and to mend the torn tissue. Within a few moments the pain subsides, and sufficient strength returns to your aching limbs to enable you to break from cover and run after your horse.</p>
- <p>You enter the dense pine copse to find Bracer standing among the trees, whinnying nervously. You calm him down and secure his reins to a branch, then you go back and try to catch a glimpse of your attackers. As you reach the edge of the trees you have no difficulty seeing them: a dozen brigands, brandishing crossbows and swords, are rushing through the knee-high undergrowth towards your hiding place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an Arrow and take aim in the direction you can hear the beast approaching from. It sounds as if it is no more than twenty metres away when you release the straining bowstring and send the Arrow streaking into the fog. The shaft has travelled barely a few metres when it ignites with a flash and is instantly transformed into a line of glowing splinters which float away on the mist.</p>
- <p>As soon as the Arrow passed beyond the perimeter of the protection of your Platinum Amulet, it was subjected to the true temperature of this domain: a temperature which reduced it to glowing embers in less than a second.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, with a deafening roar, the unseen beast is upon you. You drop your Bow and unsheathe your weapon as it tries to rake you unmercifully with fang and claw.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Zarthyn</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Runic Disc that you found in Helgor falls from your pocket as the Elder hauls you roughly off the bench. It bounces off the deck and comes to rest on his foot. He releases his grip on your robe and stoops to pick it up, thinking that it is booty you have looted from Vorn. But his temper quickly cools when he recognizes it to be the mark of the Guild of Rhem, the most feared brotherhood of assassins in all of northern Magnamund. He is aware that some guild assassins have been employed as agents to carry out missions for the acolytes, and he assumes at once that you are such an agent.</p>
- <p>Nervously he returns the disc to you. Then, without further word, he backs away a few paces, bows his head, and leaves to attend to other matters at the prow of the boat. Those seated around you have now become uncomfortably curious. To avoid their attentions, you get up and move to the stern where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Kai skills and the mud make it easy for you to tell that these tracks were made by humans travelling on foot. You count eight different pairs of footprints: six made by sandalled feet, and two by heavy hobnailed boots. The tracks are two days old and they are all heading in a northeasterly direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67"><link-text>Turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon and bring your horse about to face this fearsome beast's attack. The instant he sees the creature he panics and rears up on his hind legs, neighing with fright, his hooves scrabbling frantically at the air. You bring him under control using your innate Kai skills, but in doing so your attention is diverted from the attacking beast as it moves in and swipes at you with its clawed paw.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Black Corvayl</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">58</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 10 for the first round of this fight only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic defences hold fast and the Elder learns nothing from his attempt to read your mind. Rather than admit to failure, he curses and denounces you as an empty-headed cretin.</p>
- <p>With a growl of disdain, he orders you to rejoin the end of the procession and pushes you out of his way as he strides back to rally those acolytes who are fleeing down the path.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race up the staircase and kick open the door through which the black-clad archer disappeared. Inside, you discover a group of gamblers standing at a circular table with playing cards in their hands. They have all risen from their seats to look at something on the far side of the room. When you follow their gaze, you see it is the archer; he is climbing through an open window on to a balcony outside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the ancient settlement and continue your ride along the sun-baked river trail. As dusk approaches, you keep a weather eye open for the signs of a storm. Clouds are rapidly forming over the mountains to the east, and the metallic smell of ozone is strong on the evening breeze.</p>
- <p>In the middle distance you see a large herd of Vythaz. These timid, goat-like mountain animals are rarely seen at this time of the year, yet here are more than two hundred of them drinking at the river's edge. You sense that they are nervous and confused; the eerie weather has disrupted their natural migratory instincts and they have descended to the river a season earlier than is usual.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, there is a flash of lightning and a mighty clap of thunder explodes in the sky overhead. The herd scatter in all directions, terrified by the noise. Then an incredible ball of light shoots down from the heavens and hits the trail, scattering stones like shrapnel and leaving a huge, smoking crater in its wake. You pull your horse off the trail and run with the fleeing Vythaz herd as more of the lightning balls streak down from the stormy sky.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blazing cavern walls grow dim, and shimmering waves of the crimson light begin to sweep across the floor towards the crystal dais. Suddenly Shamath reappears in her female form at the base of the dais. In front of her booted legs there stand a dozen powerful warriors, armoured and helmeted as if for war, but their stern faces have no eyes and their mouths have no lips. Behind her, a score of new attendants emerge from the shadows carrying large pieces of shiny black armour. She begins to strap this armour to her limbs and, by the sluggishness of her movements, you can tell that she must have been weakened by your earlier conflict.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Suddenly Shamath appears in her female form at the base of the dais.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="568"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="568"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>With a single word she commands the warriors to attack you. They raise their short swords and come marching slowly forwards, their movements stiff and machine-like. Beyond their advancing line you catch sight of the Deathstaff still lying near the base of the dais, and a bold plan springs to mind. If you could evade the oncoming line of automatons, you could reach the dais. Then you would be able to take the Deathstaff and enter the Shadow Gate before Shamath recovers her strength.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171"><link-text>Turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Closer examination of the amulet reveals a wealth of detailed engravings which depict a chilling scene. They portray clearly the rising of Darklord Vashna and his minions from the depths of the Maakengorge. Your Kai skill reveals to you that this amulet once possessed a powerful charge that could have killed anyone who touched it. That charge is spent, but you can still detect the faint, lingering aura of the evil being who crafted this artefact.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your Kai instincts, you raise the Deathstaff and whirl it around your head&emdash;once, twice, three times&ellips;</p>
- <p>An ominous hum radiates from its haft. There is a crackle of static electricity and the damp air seethes with restrained, undischarged power. A thread of mist issues from the staff's tip and builds rapidly into a spinning cyclone that ensnares the Vortexi and prevents them from reaching you. In desperation, you sense them pooling their immense psychic energies in an attempt to break out of this whirling prison and attack you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess Kai-surge, add 4 to this number. If you possess Kai-screen, add 2. If you possess Assimilance, add 1.</p>
- <p>Also, if your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 18 or more, add 1; if your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 17 or less, deduct 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If it is 4&endash;8, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect138">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken in the middle of the night by an excruciating, vice-like pain that engulfs your whole head. With great difficulty you sit up and open your eyes and, at first, you assume that a new day must already have dawned for the cave is awash with a vivid white light. Then the pain in your head begins to ease and when you look out over the surrounding landscape, you see that the light has a far more sinister origin.</p>
- <p>The sky is alive with hordes of glowing, wraith-like phantoms. They swoop down from the roiling storm clouds and skim the treetops, howling and screeching like insane banshees. A trio of these ghastly apparitions are hovering just a few metres from the cave mouth, from where they are assaulting you with a psychic bombardment. You muster your Magnakai skills to erect a Psi-screen to protect your mind from their psychic attack, but your reflexes are pain-dulled and you lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before your defence knits together.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Weakened by the effects of the cursed water, you stagger away from the trough and very nearly drop your torch. Nearby, at the wayside altar, stands an Acolyte Elder who is watching the procession. He notices your reaction after having dipped your hand into the trough and it makes him suspicious. He steps forwards and grabs your shoulder, commanding you to halt. Then you feel a tingling sensation, as if a horde of spiders were crawling in a line from your shoulder to the nape of your neck: the Elder has psychic abilities and he is attempting to probe your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down to earth amidst a heap of jagged stones and broken glass (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but your quick wits and Kai senses help you roll away in time to avoid being hit by the deluge of burning timber that has been thrown up by the blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200">Adjust your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score and <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect267-1-foot" idref="sect267-1">
- <p>There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and this Section describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your psychic energy at the distant druid and release a burst of power the instant he takes his eyes off you. You see him falter and place a hand to his forehead, as if he has just been struck by a stone.</p>
- <p>Your sudden and unexpected use of a psychic attack caught the Arch Druid offguard. His inner mind is well shielded, but you sense that your burst of power has weakened him. Seizing this opportunity, you draw your weapon and rush forwards to attack him before he fully recovers.<a id="sect267-1" idref="sect267-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <combat><enemy>Arch Druid Cadak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect298">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes, the brigands suspect that one of their bolts has found its mark and they come creeping forwards. You inch your way back towards the copse, but before you can reach it you are intercepted by six brigands who come rushing across the rocks brandishing swords and daggers in their battle-scarred hands. You spring to your feet and unsheathe your weapon as they rush at you, stabbing and hacking with their gleaming blades.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vakovarian Brigands</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect59">You may evade combat after six rounds by <link-text>turning to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood Spell of <spell>Mind Charm</spell> you try to convince the Elder that you are what you outwardly appear to be: a lowly Acolyte of Vashna. A wave of calm washes over him. He ceases to panic and his eyes flicker as if he is about to fall asleep, but you sense that he is fighting hard to resist your spell.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect129">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The screaming winds of the abyss rip and tear at you unmercifully as you are sucked through the heart of this whirling black vortex. All the while you cling to the Deathstaff, although its chill touch is far colder than even the frigid gales of the void and it drains you of warmth like some evil vampire (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately, you do not move swiftly enough to avoid the bolt. It gashes the side of your neck and opens a deep wound: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The shock of impact knocks you out of the saddle and you land amongst a tangle of roots and briars. Bracer continues on through the undergrowth and quickly disappears into a dense copse of pine trees. Gritting your teeth against the pain, you drag yourself free from the thorny foliage and crawl for cover among some moss-covered boulders nearby.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Deliverance, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hardened steel tip of your Arrow penetrates the roof of the creature's mouth and skewers its brain. For a moment it freezes in mid-stride, seeming to defy gravity as it balances precariously on one hairy foot. Then its eyes roll back, revealing the whites, and it crashes down in an untidy heap at the side of the trail.</p>
- <p>You bring your horse about and gallop away in case there are others of its kind lurking nearby. Beyond the plateau, the trail descends steeply towards a thick pine wood. Milky-white pools of water punctuate this section of the track, some deceptively deep, making the descent difficult and tiring. By the time you reach the wood your horse is in need of rest.</p>
- <p>You dismount to take the weight off his back, and as you gather his reins together you notice that the flap of your Backpack is undone. On checking the contents you discover that one of your possessions is missing. (Erase the second item on your list of Backpack Items. If you have only one item on your list, erase that one instead.)</p>
- <p>As soon as your horse is rested, you remount him and set off through the pine wood, heading east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the twisted spike of black steel and thrust it into the swirling coils of energy that are holding you prisoner. There is a terrific <onomatopoeia>Crack!</onomatopoeia> as the tip penetrates the energy wall and, with a breathtaking suddenness, the wall disappears. You look down at the dagger in your hand but, to your astonishment, it too has disappeared (erase the Dagger of Vashna from your Special Items list).</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">To continue, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dash along the street, your eyes fixed on the shadowy archer as he makes his escape across the rooftops of the north quarter. You are twenty metres ahead of him when the street makes a turn and you find yourself faced by a solid brick wall; you have come to a dead end. You are about to retrace your steps when suddenly you notice a rusty iron staircase away to your right. It is a crude fire-escape ladder and it leads all the way to the roof of a linen warehouse. Quickly you climb the ladder, your weapon drawn in readiness to intercept the assassin the moment he appears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as all of the acolytes have clambered aboard, you see them cut the grappling lines which tie their longboat to the sinking Vakovarian ship. At the longboat's prow there stand a trio of Acolyte Elders, each holding a glowing wand of power in their outstretched hands. The moment they touch them together to form a triangle there is a flash of light. A swirling cone of vapour pours from the tip of this triangle and coils into the sky, creating a howling wind which fills the ship's sails and catapults the vessel away from the quayside at tremendous speed. Five minutes later the longboat has disappeared from sight, beyond the stormy horizon.</p>
- <p>The raiding acolytes leave chaos behind them. The brigands flee in all directions, taking with them little more than the bitter regret that their hoard of loot is now resting in the hold of a sunken ship, ten fathoms down at the bottom of the quay. You leave Vorn as soon as you can and return to the copse to retrieve your horse. Then you set off on a trail that heads east, following along the shoreline of Lake Vorndarol. You pass a few brigands on this trail but they are too busy nursing their battle wounds to cause you any concern.</p>
- <p>Three kilometres later, you come to a cove where the trail splits in two. The left trail continues on along the shoreline whilst the right trail turns towards the foothills of the Durncrags. Your natural tracking instincts tell you that the shoreline will be the harder of the two routes to follow. The hill trail looks easier, but it could take you much longer to reach the east shore of Lake Vorndarol that way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you wish to follow the shoreline trail, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you decide to take the foothills route, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on all your Kai mastery to evade these swooping horrors as you make good your escape. At first they pursue you, but when you leave the island they seem to lose interest and they turn back to their lair. Within a few minutes of their departing, a grey vapour boils up from the cracks in the ground. The vapour thickens with breathtaking speed until the basalt island and the entire fiery plain beyond is engulfed by this grey fog.</p>
- <p>You walk through this cloying sea of mist for what seems like an eternity until your senses detect that something is circling high above you. At first you suspect that the golden-winged creatures have come hunting for you again, but then you detect that it is something completely different. There is only one creature, and you sense that it is using a highly-developed psychic probe in order to seek you out.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tearful with gratitude, the boy's parents kiss your hands and thank you with all their hearts for saving their child's life. The man asks if there is anything they can do to help you in return and you respond by asking who they are, and how they came to be hiding here.</p>
- <p>You learn that they once lived in the hamlet of Vorn where the man, whose name is Bayan, made a humble but honest living fishing the waters of Lake Vorndarol. Then one fateful night, some weeks ago, the Acolytes of Vashna came and destroyed Vorn. They managed to escape with their lives but they fear that the rest of their community were slaughtered in the attack, or perished in the dreadful storms which followed. For the past few weeks they have been hiding in the hills to avoid the acolytes and the marauding bands of robbers who have come from Vakovar looking for loot.</p>
- <p>You tell them that you have been sent here by President Kadharian to find out what is going on at Lake Vorndarol. Bayan replies that he knows a safe route through the hills which leads directly to the ruins of his old home. He says he is willing to act as your guide and you accept his offer gratefully.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335"><link-text>Turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Fools!</quote> screams Cadak at his fleeing acolytes. <quote>Must I do everything myself?</quote></p>
- <p>With these words he bangs the tip of his staff three times against the floor of the dais and a gout of crackling energy arcs through the rain-laden air towards you. Instinctively, you raise the Deathstaff and catch the arching bolt on its haft. There is a flash of sparks, then the crackling energy flickers and disappears.</p>
- <p>Cadak curses loudly and promises that you are about to die, but for all his bravado you sense that he is scared. He recognizes the Deathstaff for what it is and he fears that, in your hands, it could lay waste to all his meticulous plans. The aged druid looks to the stormy clouds and screams a command to the circling Vortexi to help him finish you once and for all.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first light of dawn brings with it a dramatic change in the weather. The storm has ended and the sky is now bright and clear, but on the distant horizon you can still see flashes of lightning and hear thunder rumbling in the mountains.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small9.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small9.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You leave the old mine and urge Bracer down the muddy slope towards the track, most of which you discover has been washed away by last night's storm. The damp earth is streaming in the unusual heat of the morning sun and the air crackles with an eerie residue of static electricity.</p>
- <p>You continue your ride through the hills without stopping until, shortly after midday, you come to a derelict hovel which stands at the edge of a marshy peat bog. Your Kai senses inform you that there is somebody inside and, spurred on by curiosity, you resolve to find out who they are. You dismount and leave Bracer to feed on the marsh grass while you go forward to investigate the hovel on foot. You are six metres away from its rotting wooden door when suddenly it creaks open and you see an old man standing in the doorway. He is smiling at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you have ever visited the city of Varetta, the city of Tahou, or a hut on the Ruanon Pike in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you have never visited any of these places, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The man makes a slow, sure-footed descent to within three metres of where you are standing, during which time his weapon's sights never leave your chest. You can tell immediately that he is a skilled hunter and, judging by his furs and his beautifully crafted crossbow, he is a successful one too.</p>
- <p>Your muscles are tense and coiled like springs, ready to propel you out of the path of his crossbow bolt in case he fires. But then he says something which makes you realize that, maybe, he has no intentions of killing you after all.</p>
- <p><quote>You're no bandit,</quote> he muses. <quote>No, by thunder, you look like a Sommlending to me.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A one-eyed mongrel is standing in front of the inn, its head cocked defiantly at the first-floor window through which you are observing the Vakovarians.</p>
- <p>Mentally you command it to cease its infernal yapping and it responds by running away along the street, whimpering pathetically, as if it has just seen a ghost.</p>
- <p>Most of the bandit activity appears to be going on around the quay. In order to get a better view, you leave the inn and make your way down through the ruins towards the lake, taking care to avoid those Vakovarians who are out looting. The burnt-out shell of a meeting hall offers you an unobstructed view of the quay and its flagstoned square. You hide here, invisible among the charred roof timbers, and watch as a curious scene unfolds on the quayside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163"><link-text>Turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Demoness comes striding towards you, screaming maniacally, bolts of energy darting from her fingertips to rip open the ground as you zigzag to avoid being hit.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect92">If it is 4&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The three phantoms swoop down into the trees as if to pursue the fleeing cats, but then they break off their attack and come speeding once more towards the mouth of the cave.</p>
- <p>You sense a hostile psychic presence about them, an evil mind energy which is growing stronger as they draw nearer. You draw on your own formidable psychic skills and erect a defensive wall around your mind which keeps you safe from their first bombardment. Having encountered unexpected resistance, they veer upwards and vanish into the clouds. They have gone, but not for long. Within minutes they return with seven more of their ghostly brothers in train.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess Kai-surge, and have reached the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You level your weapon and strike out with deadly accuracy as the first of the Vortexi engulf you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add a further 2 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the cold light of dawn you see that the River Storn is too deep and fast-flowing to be fordable at this point. The trail follows the river downstream so you decide to follow it in the hope of finding somewhere to cross. Two kilometres later, you happen upon such a place.</p>
- <p>At a point where the river slows and widens, you find a crude rope ferry has been erected. It comprises two rafts attached to two long lengths of rope which are suspended above the river. A crossing can be achieved by boarding a raft and pulling on its guide rope to haul it across to the opposite bank.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A crossing can be achieved by boarding a raft and pulling on its guide rope.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>You wait and observe that area for a few minutes. When you feel sure that it is safe to proceed, you place your horse aboard a raft and begin the laborious task of pulling yourself across to the distant shore.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If the number you have picked is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8), <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If it is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> you say, <quote>how do you intend to help me?</quote></p>
- <p>The young woman begins by confirming your suspicions. The Demoness Shamath is indeed preparing to go to the Maakengorge in response to Cadak's summons. She will make the journey by entering the tunnel; it is a Shadow Gate which will transport her from this plane of existence to Magnamund, to the great shimmering archway through which you were hurled by the storm. She will take with her an artefact of great evil&emdash;the Deathstaff&emdash;a device forged by the Dark God Naar himself and imbued with the power to resurrect the spirit of his long-lost champion, Lord Vashna, from the depths of the Chasm of Doom.</p>
- <p><quote>Naar has laboured long and hard to create the Deathstaff,</quote> says the young woman. She points once more towards the crystal dais and says, <quote>Can you see, Lone Wolf? It is there, resting beside Shamath's feet.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The drunkard gives a lop-sided grin and wipes his greasy mouth with the back of his hand before replying to your question.</p>
- <p><quote>F' sure I know where be the Crooked Sage. Fine ale to be had there, if only I was moneyed enough to afford it. I'll tell you where it is for a small payment&ellips; say, ten Gold Crowns?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to pay the drunkard for this information, erase 10 Gold Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you refuse to pay such a high price, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Coolly you stare into the eyes of the advancing acolytes as you summon forth the power-word of the Elder Magi: <em>Gloar</em>.</p>
- <p>The sound hits them like a massive, invisible hammer. It crushes their ribs and leaves their bodies lying broken and lifeless amongst the charred debris.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325"><link-text>Turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your search uncovers the following items:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Enough food for 3 Meals</li>
- <li>Quiver</li>
- <li>4 Arrows</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>3 Daggers</li>
- <li>Tinderbox</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Bottle of Wine</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of the above, remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect143">To leave the hut, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You watch helplessly as the woman approaches, her corpse-white hands outstretched, reaching in eager anticipation for the flap of the money pouch which hangs from your belt. You fight to resist the mind charm which is paralysing your limbs but, try as you will, you cannot break free.</p>
- <p>Then with a jolt, the feeling suddenly returns to your paralysed body. The woman has vanished and so, too, have nearly all the Gold Crowns in your Belt Pouch.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If the number you have picked is 0&endash;3, there are only two Gold Crowns left in your pouch.</p>
- <p>If the number you have picked is 4&endash;7, there are only three Gold Crowns remaining.</p>
- <p>If the number you have picked is 8&endash;9, you have been left with five Gold Crowns.</p>
- <p>Remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Cursing your luck, you coax your horse to the right at the road junction and continue on your search for the Crooked Sage Inn. A warren of covered alleyways and narrow passages eventually lead to a wider street, one which is illuminated by flickering torchlight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Like a fleeting shadow, you move through the undergrowth towards the brigand leader without making a sound. As you draw closer, you hear him cursing the incompetence of his men and you see him beating his clenched fist on the trunk of the fallen bough in frustration. Then you leap upon him, covering his mouth with one hand and locking his arm behind his back with the other. He growls and struggles like an angry bear to break free from your grip, but when you whisper a threat in his ear he quickly ceases to resist. Suddenly his nerve seems to break and he begins to whimper like a frightened puppy. You ease your hand away from his mouth just enough to allow him to speak and at once he pleads with you not to kill him. He offers you the contents of his satchel and free passage away from here if you will promise not to harm him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you wish to see what he has in his satchel, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you wish to question him about why he has laid an ambush for you, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Elder becomes angry. He scolds you for more than a minute before he loses his patience and stalks off, dismissing you as unworthy of his time. Those seated around you have now become uncomfortably curious about who you are. To avoid their attentions, you get up and move to the stern where a score of acolytes are kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect293-1-foot" idref="sect293-1">
- <p>There is no indication whether or not the extra meals that you gather as you ride should also have a curative effect. If you decide that they do, record each on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as <quote>Meal +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></quote>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The yellow blossoms are surprisingly nutritious: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you wish, you can gather some more of these blooms as you continue your ride across the plateau, and store them in your Backpack (up to a maximum of 2 Meals).<a id="sect293-1" idref="sect293-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> and, at once, you see Smudd relaxing under its influence. He removes his hand from his sword and the scowl of fearful suspicion softens to a smile as he lowers himself back into his seat. With a flick of his hand he dismisses the bar-girl. She leaves without protest and as you watch her walk away, he leans across the table and says, <quote>How can I help you, stranger?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What do you know about a little hamlet called Vorn?</quote> you say, quietly.</p>
- <p>For a moment the look of suspicion returns to his beady eyes, then he sneers and says, <quote>I know it no longer exists, that's what I know. There's rumour on the street that it was destroyed by the storms, but there's more to it than that. More than I care to remember.</quote></p>
- <p>You show him the Black Amulet that President Kadharian gave to you and once more you repeat your question. Now he refuses to answer, fearing that you are one of Kadharian's agents out to arrest him. He kicks back his chair and tries to stand, but he does not make it.</p>
- <p>He is halfway out of his seat when suddenly his chest is transfixed by a crystal arrow. Wide-eyed with pain and shocked surprise, he crashes to the floor amid a spray of blood and spilt ale.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take your place among the throng who are kneeling before the dais, and watch as the tall, platinum-haired figure begins to speak.</p>
- <p><quote>I, Cadak of Kaag, summon forth from the Vortex of the Planes the Deliverer of Vashna, Mighty Lord of Darkness, Prince of the Legions of the Restless Dead,</quote> he says, his words clear and confident above the howling storm. <quote>Come to us. Come to us now and fulfil our destiny. We, the worthy, now prove our faith in the undying power of Vashna.</quote></p>
- <p>Upon hearing these words, the acolytes utter a chilling cry of affirmation and rise to their feet. By rank they follow the Elders in single file towards a smaller, shimmering metallic arch which stands to one side of the crystal dais, almost obscured by the glare of the larger one. One by one they file through this archway, under the watchful gaze of Cadak, and then return to their places where they kneel and pray.</p>
- <p>As you approach the smaller arch, you sense a curtain of power drawn across it. Anxiously you pray to the Gods Kai and Ishir to protect you as you prepare to pass through this invisible barrier.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The night passes uneventfully, but you awake at dawn to a spectacular sight. The eastern sky is filled with soaring meteors of fiery yellow light which shoot from the midst of a bank of deep magenta storm clouds. The air seethes with electrical energy and lightning flashes can be seen all along the distant horizon. You find the sight unnerving, doubly so when you calculate that its centre of activity lies directly over the Maakengorge.</p>
- <p>After a frugal breakfast, you set off along the shoreline trail on a route which takes you ever nearer to the storm.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;4, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If it is 5&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You thank Gwynian for his help and he waves farewell as you leave the hovel and walk back to your horse.</p>
- <p><quote>Good luck, Grand Master,</quote> he calls out, <quote>my hopes and my prayers go with you.</quote></p>
- <p>By nightfall you have covered twenty kilometres of rough terrain and have been assailed by extremes of weather. From a desert-like heat at mid-afternoon the temperature plummeted, causing a sub-zero squall which left you and Bracer blanketed with frost. But now, as darkness draws its cloak over this troubled land, the temperature quickly rises. This heralds the return of the rain, and the thunder and the violent lightning strikes.</p>
- <p>Helped by your Tracking skills, you discover a shallow cave where you can take shelter from the storm. You are tired and hungry, and unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you possess Animal Mastery, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to achieve this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike your killing blow, Cadak shudders and crashes to the ground, clutching his staff tightly to his chest. He finds just enough strength to utter a dying curse, then, before your disbelieving eyes, his body slowly disintegrates. The skin is quickly criss-crossed by thousands of wrinkles, and the drying flesh falls from his skull, leaving it bare boned with a tattered layer of leathery skin stretched over it. Then, in the next instant his body collapses into naked bone. His staff breaks into chalky chunks and, finally, bone and staff blacken and fall away to dust.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72"><link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crash down to earth amidst a heap of jagged stones and broken glass. Then, as you are struggling to stand, a deluge of burning timber falls on your back and knocks you down: lose 9 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is dusk when you emerge from the woods and ride along a ridge which overlooks the eastern shoreline of Lake Vorndarol, and it is here that you catch your first glimpse of the acolyte settlement. It consists of several long huts, grouped around a great hall of stone on a hill overlooking a shingle beach. Down on the beach there is a wooden jetty where an acolyte longboat is moored. It is the same longboat that was used in the attack on Vorn quay.</p>
- <p>Cautiously, you descend the ridge and ride towards the settlement. When you are within half a kilometre of the perimeter, you leave your horse and go forwards on foot. There are acolytes everywhere but you find it easy to avoid them and enter the encampment unseen. Under cover of the approaching darkness and aided by your Camouflage skills, you make your way towards the stone hall. You sense that something important is going on there and you resolve to find out what it is.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you unshoulder your Bow, draw an Arrow from your Quiver, and take hurried aim as the man in black leaps from the window ledge on to the balcony.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with Bow, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery of the Magnakai Pathsmanship Discipline warns you that you could be ambushed if you were to enter the circle of boulders. Forewarned, you wait and observe the horseshoe of rocks a while longer. Before too long your patience is rewarded: something is moving around down there.</p>
- <p>You intensify your vision and see that it is a pack of bony, dog-like creatures. They are feeding on something in the lee of the rocks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you wish to go and see what it is they are feeding upon, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If you choose to avoid the horseshoe rocks, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aching with fatigue and spattered with the foul ichor that passed for blood in the bodies of Shamath's attendants, you step back from those you have slain and stare defiantly at the towering Demoness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242"><link-text>Turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw back your Arrow until the feathers are touching your lips, then you let slip the straining bowstring. The shaft whistles through the trees towards the brigand leader's back and hits him squarely between the shoulder blades with a loud <onomatopoeia>thok!</onomatopoeia> He screams and throws his arms wide as he crashes face-first to the ground.</p>
- <p>His henchmen spin around and see you. They bellow commands to their underlings and at once the angry brigands begin to close in on your position from all sides. You retreat into the trees and head back the way you came, anxious to retrieve your horse before the brigands find him. You are within a stone's throw of Bracer when suddenly you are confronted by more than a dozen bandits, hungry for revenge. They attack in a frenzy and you are forced to fight all twelve at once.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vakovarian brigands</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">56</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect35">You may evade this combat after six rounds by <link-text>turning to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wield the Deathstaff with confidence, but the insidious effect of the weapon is making you careless as you sweep the staff around your head. Some of the stronger Vortexi are able to break away from the spinning cyclone to make good their attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vortexi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, you may add 2 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight. However, due to the harmful side effects of the Deathstaff, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 2 prior to the start of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature roars with frustration. Mentally its instincts are pulling it apart; it cannot decide whether to attack or retreat. Finally, with a howl of anger, it comes lumbering towards you. It is going to attack but you sense that your commands have greatly weakened its resolve.</p>
- <p>You raise your weapon and bring your horse about to face the beast, but on the instant he sees the creature he panics and rears up on his hind legs, neighing with fright. You bring him under control using your innate Kai skills, but in doing so your attention is diverted from the attacking beast as it moves in and swipes at you with its clawed paw.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Black Corvayl</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">56</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the first round of this fight only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Magnakai Pathsmanship skills and the freshness of the mud make it easy for you to tell that the tracks are made by humans on foot. You count at least six different sets of footprints, all heading in a northeasterly direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67"><link-text>Turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Weapon disintegrated in the blast (erase it from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), yet it served to conduct the energy of the lightning ball away from your body. It has spared you from sustaining injury and possibly death.</p>
- <p>Dazed by the blast and the fall, you stagger to your feet and look around for your horse. He has halted at the river's edge where he is pacing nervously to and fro. You call to him, using your natural Kai skills to calm and control his fear, and he responds at once and returns to collect you. Swiftly you climb back into the saddle and gallop away along the river trail, anxious to put distance between you and this deadly storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap into the saddle and steer your horse away from the lake and the sinister circle of boulders. Then you hear another frenzied howl and you glance over your shoulder to see a pack of eight ridge-backed Jackals come streaming through a gap in the boulders, drawn by the scent of your horse. They seem to know that he is in a weakened state and this fuels their fury.</p>
- <p>You urge your horse to the gallop as the Jackals bound along the shore, but he is weakening fast and the ground here is treacherous: it is strewn with loose rocks and jagged shale.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this Discipline, or have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make it across the street to the roof, but you twist your ankle on landing and crash heavily against the corrugated tiles: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Painfully you limp to your feet and watch as the assassin makes good his escape. For a moment he halts beside a tall chimney stack and turns to look in your direction. Then three other shadowy figures emerge from behind the stack and stand at his shoulder. They stare at you silently for a few moments before turning and melting away into the night.</p>
- <p>Having decided it would be pointless to try to follow them, you make your way down from the roof and retrace your steps back to the stables of the Crooked Sage in order to collect your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341"><link-text>Turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stunned by the speed and skill with which you have dispatched over fifteen of their brothers, the circle of murderous acolytes retreat a few paces to catch their breath and lick their wounds.</p>
- <p><quote>We have an intruder in our midst,</quote> screams Cadak, levelling his wizard's staff at you accusingly. The tip flares brightly, then a jet of crimson energy comes arcing towards your chest. You try to dodge it but it follows you and connects with your spine, numbing your limbs with its insidious effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228"><link-text>Turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brigand captain's men respond to his call for help and, with the sound of them closing in, you break off the fight and take to your heels. Thinking that he has terrified you into running away, the captain gives chase, but he soon loses you among the dense pines and calls off his pursuit. The area is alive with bandits and you are forced to flee northwards, away from the place where you left Bracer tethered to a tree. You are anxious for his safety and mindful that there are still many miles to be covered before you reach Lake Vorndarol, but you dare not turn back for him. Then you hear something that makes you halt in your tracks: it is the sound of a horse whinnying.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223"><link-text>Turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight to maintain your grip but you have been badly weakened during your conflict with Shamath and Cadak, and your reserves of strength are exhausted. Comforted by the knowledge that your actions have prevented the resurrection of Vashna and the destruction of your homeland, you finally release your grip and allow yourself to be sucked to your doom in the whirling abyss.</p>
- <p>Heroically, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a moment the Elder is wide-eyed and speechless with shock, but you know that he will soon come to his senses and raise the alarm. You must act swiftly and decisively if you are to prevent him from revealing your true identity to the others on this boat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, or you do not wish to use them, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately you recognize the tall, muscular man who stands before you now; he was once known as the Slavemaster of Aarnak. He was an agent of the Elder Magi based in the Darklands who, seven years earlier, helped you to enter the dread city of Helgedad and bring about the downfall of the Darklords. Now he is known by a different name&emdash;President Kadharian of Magador.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> he says, smiling warmly, <quote>it seems we have both come a long way since our last meeting.</quote></p>
- <p>The President is amused by your expression of surprise and offers an explanation of how he came to be leader of this rough republic. After the fall of Helgedad, the Elder Magi arranged for his safe passage to the Stornlands where he was granted a command in the army of Lyris. He distinguished himself in battle and later, once the remains of the Darkland armies had been vanquished, he returned to his native Magador and led an uprising against King Vanagrom VI, who had long been a puppet of the Darklords. The revolt ended with the King's death and the abolition of the monarchy. Magador became a republic and the Slavemaster, whose given name was Kadharian, became its first elected leader.</p>
- <p><quote>And now to the reasons why I have requested your help, Grand Master,</quote> he says, as he pushes open the door to a smaller room which adjoins the senate hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast the glowing Token into the darkness and it explodes with a dull boom among the boulders, showering the path with dirt and slivers of stone. (Erase this Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>The sudden flash and bang cause a moment of panic among the acolytes. They fear that they are being attacked by Vakovarians and many of them drop their torches and run back along the path, screaming excitedly. Using this confusion to your advantage, you attempt to tag on to the end of the line of acolytes who are still advancing up the path.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you possess Kai-screen, add 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The few scavengers that survive the attack wheel away and return to the mountains, cawing with frustration, their wings bloodied and their hunger unsatiated. You manage to regain control of the raft and, at length, you reach the far side of the river and disembark safely. A stony trail runs along the bank, heading north, and you follow it with high hopes of reaching Lake Vorndarol before sunset. All day the sun blazes supreme in a cloudless sky and waves of heat create a shimmering, distorted view of the trail ahead. The distant horizon is streaked with myriad colours and the dry air crackles with electricity, a legacy of last night's violent storm. Late in the afternoon you come to the ruins of an ancient settlement and stop here to allow your horse to rest awhile in the shade.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step back from the glowing remains of Helshezag and feel yourself sagging beneath the unnatural weight of the Deathstaff. The sound of the bolt attracts Shamath's attention and she spins around to stare at you, sending her attendants flying in all directions. Then she screams with unholy anger and the noise of her wrath lifts you bodily and sends you skidding across the floor.</p>
- <p>Desperately you fight to maintain your grip on the Deathstaff as the furious Demoness gets to her feet. She comes striding towards you, bolts of energy darting from her fingertips to rip open the ground as you stumble away towards the yawning black tunnel. The deafening shriek of her voice rings in your ears as you clutch the Deathstaff to your chest and leap head first into the oblivion of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ground beneath Bracer's hooves is trembling. At first you think the thunder is the cause, but then you notice that the sound of the storm is getting louder and louder. Fear knots your stomach when suddenly you see a solid roaring wall of water come tumbling down the gully. It is a flash flood and, unless you act quickly, you and your horse will be washed away without trace.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You see a solid roaring wall of water come tumbling down the gully.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="591"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="591"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect104">If you possess Grand Huntmastery and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to attain this rank of Kai Grand Mastership, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your sight and hearing at the bushes and suddenly realize that you have been taken in by an elaborate ruse. A thin length of twine runs away under the foliage; it is the trigger that dislodged the rock and made it fall. There is nobody hiding there after all.</p>
- <p>Your eye follows the twine along the hillside to a boulder high up on the slope to your left. Perhaps your would-be ambusher is hiding there instead?</p>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Knight; <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A lightning ball is hurtling directly towards you. Desperately, you pull your horse away to avoid being hit but the fiery meteor changes course in mid-flight as if guided by an unseen hand. You make one last attempt to dodge it but to no avail; it impacts upon the hilt of the Sommerswerd and you are thrown from the saddle amidst a shower of glowing sparks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0 = 10). The number you have picked is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost as a result of the lightning impact and the fall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">After making the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you draw level with the first Elder he reaches down and takes hold of your shoulder to make you halt. He says something in a dialect you do not understand and, when you do not answer, his suspicion swiftly turns to anger. He grabs your robe and pulls it open, revealing your leather tunic and breeches. Recognizing them at once to be Sommlending in origin, he gasps with shock as he guesses at your true identity.</p>
- <p><quote>Seize him!</quote> bellows the other Elder, and a score of acolytes spring forward to obey the command. You draw your weapon and fight them with breathtaking skill and valour, but eventually you are overcome by the sheer weight of their numbers. By the time they have disarmed you and pinned you to the ground, more than thirty of them lie slain or seriously injured in a heaped circle around where you lie.</p>
- <p>You stare back defiantly at the ring of grim torchlit faces that loom over you. Then the face of an Acolyte Elder comes into view and he sneers with disdain. He places the tip of a glowing wand to your forehead and suddenly there is an explosion of white light. Sadly for you, it is the last sensation you will ever experience.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Smudd is clearly impressed by your generosity. He removes his hand from his sword and the scowl of fearful suspicion softens to a smile as he lowers himself back into his seat. With a flick of his hand he dismisses the bar-girl. She leaves without protest, and as you watch her walk away, he leans across the table and says, <quote>How can I help you, stranger?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What do you know about a little hamlet called Vorn?</quote> you say, quietly.</p>
- <p>For an instant the look of suspicion returns to his beady eyes, then he sneers and says, <quote>I know it no longer exists, that's what I know. There's a rumour on the street that it was destroyed by the storm, but there's more to it than that. More than I care to remember.</quote></p>
- <p>You show him the Black Amulet that President Kadharian gave to you and once more you repeat your question. Now he refuses to answer, fearing that you are one of Kadharian's agents out to arrest him. He kicks back his chair and tries to stand, but he does not make it.</p>
- <p>He is halfway out of his seat when suddenly his chest is transfixed by a crystal arrow. Wide-eyed with pain and shocked surprise, he crashes to the floor amid a spray of blood and spilt ale.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The few acolytes who survive the fight count themselves lucky and flee for their lives. <quote>Fools!</quote> screams Cadak, at his routing acolytes. <quote>Must I do everything myself!</quote></p>
- <p>With these words he bangs the tip of his staff three times against the floor of the dais and a gout of crackling energy arcs through the rain-laden air towards you. Instinctively, you raise the Deathstaff and catch the arcing bolt on its haft. There is a flash of sparks, then the crackling energy flickers and disappears.</p>
- <p>Cadak curses loudly and promises that you are about to die, but for all his bravado you sense that he is scared. He recognizes the Deathstaff for what it is and he fears that, in your hands, it could lay waste to all his meticulous plans. The aged druid looks to the stormy clouds and screams a command to the circling Vortexi to help him finish you once and for all.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65"><link-text>Turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly a piercing note blares out above the din of battle: it is a war-horn and it is sounding the recall to the acolyte longboat. You see those Acolytes of Vashna who are fighting in the ruins suddenly break off their combat and race back to the quay in answer to this command. Their mission has been achieved. They have recaptured their three brothers and now the time has come for them to depart.</p>
- <p>As you watch them streaming along the body-strewn quay, a bold plan springs to mind, a plan that could enable you quickly to discover the truth about what is happening at the Maakengorge. If you were to don a red robe from one of the acolytes you have slain, you could infiltrate the ranks of those acolytes who are now fleeing back to the longboat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you wish to put on a red robe and attempt to get aboard the acolyte longboat, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you decide that it is too dangerous a plan, you can watch the acolyte retreat from the safety of the ruins by <link-text>turning to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trio of phantoms break off their attack and take to the sky to rejoin their unholy siblings. As their wispy, glowing forms disappear into the stormy clouds, you get to your feet and quickly gather up your weapons and equipment. They have gone, but not for long. Within minutes they return with seven more of their ghostly brothers in train.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you possess Kai-screen, and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you stretches a gigantic cavern. Its walls of ancient obsidian rise to a high-arched roof where hangs a circle of stalactites&emdash;twelve huge luminescent spears of lime-green stone. Bathed in their pulsating glow is a many-tiered crystal dais, identical to the one on which Arch Druid Cadak stood before the great shimmering archway at the edge of the Maakengorge. To the right of this dais you see a dark tunnel. The entrance appears like a black semicircular shadow upon the cavern wall.</p>
- <p>Standing upon the uppermost tier of the dais is a creature which both mesmerizes and repulses you. It has the semblance of a human female, yet she stands more than seven metres tall. She is strikingly beautiful but you sense at once that she is also wholly evil. Her skin has a deathly, corpse-like pallor and she is clad in a flowing black costume which trails thin wisps of smoke. Cloaked figures scurry around the lower tiers of the dais, carrying out their mistress's commands and attending to her every whim. If they fail or displease her she crushes them like lowly insects in her elegant, deadly hands.</p>
- <p>You watch in silent fascination as this demonic creature makes preparations, as if for a long journey. Then, in a flash of a sudden realization, you know her purpose. She is getting ready to enter the tunnel, a tunnel which will transport her to the archway at the edge of the Maakengorge. She is the deliverer of Vashna of whom Cadak spoke, the one who will raise the spirit of Lord Vashna from the chasm of doom!</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You find yourself looking into the impish face of a young, teenage girl.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="633"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="633"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>Suddenly you are aware that someone is standing behind you. Instantly, you unsheathe your weapon and spin around to face them, half-expecting to see the grotesque face of a demonic minion. Instead, you find yourself looking into the impish face of a young, teenage girl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173"><link-text>Turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You let loose your Arrow and watch as it clips the man's thigh before arcing away into the night. You hear him yelp with pain, but the wound is superficial and it does not prevent him from making a safe landing on the rooftop opposite.</p>
- <p>You dash along the street, your eyes fixed on the limping archer as he makes good his escape from the inn. You are twenty metres ahead of him when the street makes a turn and you find yourself face-to-face with a solid brick wall; you have come to a dead end. You are about to retrace your steps when suddenly you notice a rusty iron staircase away to your right. It is a crude fire-escape ladder and it leads all the way to the roof of a linen warehouse. Quickly you climb the ladder, your weapon drawn in readiness to intercept the wounded assassin the moment he appears.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Vakovarians search the inn thoroughly. They fail to find you on their first sweep, but when they return to search again, one of them discovers your hiding place when he accidentally treads on your foot.</p>
- <p>You react quickly and with fatal effect. A blow to the throat silences the brigand for good and prevents him from ever warning his confederates that you are here. They do not notice that he is missing and they leave the inn to go elsewhere. By the time they realize they are one man short, you have searched and hidden his body and made good your escape from the inn.</p>
- <p>Among the items you discover on the brigand are the following:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quiver with 4 Arrows</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>13 Gold Crowns</li>
- <li>Rope</li>
- <li>Small Sack</li>
- </ul>
- <p>After leaving the inn, you make your way down through the ruins towards the lake, taking care to avoid other Vakovarians who are out looting. The burnt-out shell of a meeting hall offers you an unobstructed view of the quay and its flagstoned square. You hide here, invisible among the charred roof timbers, and watch as a curious scene unfolds on the quayside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163"><link-text>Turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brigands are clumsy in their eagerness to reach the copse, presenting themselves as easy targets to your Bow. Every Arrow finds its mark until their leader calls off the assault and they take cover among the boulders. Now the trees echo to the sound of steel bolts ripping through branches and ricocheting off stone; once more these brigands have begun firing at you with their crossbows.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). The number you have picked is equal to the number of Arrows you have fired at the brigands (adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly).</p>
- <choice idref="sect268">If the number you have picked is greater than the number of Arrows you have in your Quiver, erase them all and <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If, after having deducted the relevant number of Arrows, you still have one or more left in your quiver, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen to keep safe your identity from the Elder's mind probe. You sense that his psychic power is strong and you fear that your defences may not be sufficient to repel him.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked. Also, if you possess Grand Nexus, add 2; and if you possess Kai-alchemy, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect332-1-foot" idref="sect332-1">
- <p>If you have already spent all of your money, you have a choice: you may either give him an item of comparable or greater value, or you may simply disregard this cost.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride slowly through the clammy fog which carpets the cobblestones of this ill-smelling lane. Clamped against the walls of the surrounding buildings are oil-soaked torches which serve to illuminate the signs of wine shops and taverns. They are crudely painted with emblems&emdash;a bloodied battle-axe, a winged horse, a watery sun rising from a broken skull. There is not one that resembles a crooked sage and you are beginning to lose heart when suddenly you hear the sound of drunken revelry coming from a two-storey building at the end of the street. Its oaken doors hang open and the vivid orange glare of its roaring hearth spills invitingly into the dank night gloom. Although it has no painted emblem, you sense at once that you have at last found the Crooked Sage Inn.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <p>At your approach, a sallow-faced stable boy limps from a wooden hut which is leaning precariously against the side of the tavern wall. For one Gold Crown (erase this from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), he takes charge of your horse and shows you to the taproom door.<a id="sect332-1" idref="sect332-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your punch lifts the Elder clean off his feet and sends him tumbling over the side of the boat. A cry goes up along the deck, a shout of alarm that one of the Elders has fallen overboard. Scores of acolytes rush to the rail in response but there is nothing they can do. The longboat is travelling so fast that he is already hundreds of metres behind the stern and cannot be seen amidst the churning water.</p>
- <p>Fortunately, none of the acolytes saw you throw your punch; they all assume the Elder fell accidentally. However, those who were seated near you have now become uncomfortably curious about who you are. To avoid their attentions, you move to the stern where you find a score of acolytes kneeling in prayer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush towards the crystal dais, feinting and weaving to avoid the oncoming Automatons. But the machine-like warriors move closer together and, by the time you reach them, they have closed ranks and you run straight into their solid wall. You will have to fight them. These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack (except Kai-blast).</p>
- <combat><enemy>Shamath Automatons</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect153">You may evade combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bayan says farewell to his wife, warning her to stay hidden here with the child until he returns. She thanks you once more for curing her son and she wishes you a safe journey, then Bayan leads you to another hovel where he has hidden a donkey. It is a stubborn, flea-bitten old ass, but it serves Bayan well as the two of you follow his secret trail into the foothills of the southern Durncrags.</p>
- <p>It is a long and tortuous route but it is also a safe one. At dusk you come to a cave whose entrance is hidden by clumps of loose brushwood. Bayan and his family have used it several times over in the past few weeks and they have stocked it with a buried cache of roots and berries. These, together with some live game which you catch at a nearby stream, make for a filling and nutritious meal which you both enjoy before settling down to a long sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">You may restore your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to its original level. To continue, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature roars with anger as it overcomes your mental commands and rushes forward. You raise your weapon and bring your horse about to face this fearsome beast's attack. The instant he sees the creature he panics and rears up on his hind legs, neighing with fright, his hooves scrabbling frantically at the air. You bring him under control using your innate Kai skills, but in so doing your attention is diverted from the attacking beast as it moves in and swipes at you with its clawed paw.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Black Corvayl</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">58</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 10 for the first round of this fight only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the cave at first light and continue your lonely trek towards Lake Vorndarol. Before dawn, an icy wind swept down from the north and spread a thick blanket of frost on the trail, freezing the mud beneath. To your surprise, the going is easier and swifter than expected and, by noon, you find you have covered more than thirty kilometres.</p>
- <p>During your ride you have watched the land slowly changing. The trail is now steeper and granite outcroppings have begun to appear, tinged with moss and interspersed with pine trees and grey-green underbrush. You are approaching an area littered with huge granite boulders when suddenly your Magnakai Pathsmanship skills alert you to danger; you sense there is an ambush ahead.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If the number you have picked is 0&endash;1, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If it is 2&endash;9, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you enjoy your impromptu meal, you stare at the shimmering waters of the lake, now some ten kilometres distant, and contemplate with dread what may await you when you get to the east shore. Then, unexpectedly, your Sixth Sense warns you that danger is much closer at hand and instinctively you reach for your weapon. As your hand closes upon it, a fearful roar erupts from the bushes on the other side of the trail. Suddenly the foliage is torn open by two great hairy paws and a black, bear-like hulk comes charging across the trail towards you, its fanged jaw open as if to bite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you possess Animal Mastery, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you have neither, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Although you are unable to sleep, you take some comfort from the fact that there is no storm this night. You leave the grove at first light and follow the rushing stream until you happen upon a shallow bend where the water is fordable on horseback. You cross here, make a wide detour, and then return to the trail a mile beyond the Vakovarian's encampment.</p>
- <p>The trail gradually descends towards the burnt and derelict hovels of Vorn, clustered in squalid disarray around a greystone quay. Vakovarian bandits occupy the ruined hamlet and you decide it wise to leave the trail in case they have posted a lookout. A copse of stunted firs offers you a good hiding place for your horse. You tether him here, then gather some grasses and roots for him to eat while you are away scouting the hamlet.</p>
- <p>You have no difficulty entering Vorn unseen. From the first-floor ruins of a burnt-out inn on the outskirts of the hamlet you make a careful observation of the Vakovarians. They seem to be systematically looting the ruins and transporting their ill-gotten booty to a fishing boat which is moored at the quay. You are watching this boat closely when suddenly your concentration is broken by the sound of a yapping dog.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>I bid you welcome, Northlander,</quote> says the fur-clad stranger, taking you aback with his friendly tone, <quote>&thinspace;'T'as been many moons since I've seen a welcome face in this godforsaken land. What beckons you here?</quote></p>
- <p>You answer with caution in case he is trying to trick you, and simply reply that you are a hunter.</p>
- <p><quote>A hunter, eh?</quote> he says, smiling. <quote>Come, now. You be no hunter, least none like I know. And I should know seein' as I'm a hunter m'self.</quote></p>
- <p>You use your Kai senses to assess this man's purpose and realize that he is speaking the truth. He really is a hunter and he intends you no harm.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> you say, <quote>I admit I'm not a hunter, at least not in the way you think. I've come here to find out what is going on at the Maakengorge. I want to know why Vorn was destroyed and what is causing the storms. But what of your purpose, master hunter? What quarry is there here that's worth battling these accursed storms for?</quote></p>
- <p>The hunter tells you that he has travelled all the way from Karkaste, in the realm of Lyris, to hunt for Black Corvayl. The fur of this beast is worth a small fortune in the markets of Casiorn and the Stornlands. He says the storms and the Vakovarian brigands have made things difficult for him; he has been in these mountains for more than a month now and has only two pelts to show for his trouble.</p>
- <p>The hunter, whose name is Fyrad, invites you to join him at his camp in the hills. It will soon be dusk and the icy winds are getting colder, so you gladly accept his offer of food and warm shelter.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as the stable boy has saddled Bracer, you mount up and leave the inn at a gallop. You decide to forgo sleep this night and begin your journey north without further delay. Shortly past midnight, you pass through Helgor's ruined East Gate and head off along a rutted track that winds a northeasterly route towards the River Storn. The moon is full and this rough trail is illuminated clearly by its cold, ashen light. Far to the north an electrical storm is brewing. Flashes of forked lightning light up the horizon and the sky, and the hills echo to the rumble of distant thunder.</p>
- <p>You have covered little more than ten kilometres when the trail gradually peters out. You continue on across soft heathland for a few miles further until you find another trail, muddier than the first. Fresh tracks are imprinted in its surface, leading off towards the northeast. Curious as to their origin, you dismount and take a closer look.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 1 for every Kai level you are above the rank of Kai Grand Guardian to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect307">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect256">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The horse refuses to approach the trees so you dismount and tether him to a boulder before investigating the wooded gully on foot. Beyond the perimeter of trees you discover a clearing where a score of shallow graves are clustered in a circle. You scrape away some of the stones and earth from the nearest grave and uncover the corpse of a man clad in mouldering red robes. A black hood trimmed with skeletal insignia identifies him to have once been an Acolyte of Vashna. He and his brothers were attacked, robbed, and murdered by the brigands when they passed this way some weeks earlier. This clearing is where they disposed of the bodies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you wish to search the robes of this corpse, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you wish to leave this crude graveyard and return to the trail, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the acolyte immediately before you in the line steps into the arch, your Sixth Sense screams a warning of imminent danger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you wish to ignore your Kai senses and step through the arch, <link-text>turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you decide to follow your senses and refuse to step through the arch, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are awoken in the middle of the night by the she-cat's nervous growl. At first you think that a new day must already have dawned for the cave is awash with bright light, but when you look out at the surrounding landscape you see that the light has a far more sinister origin.</p>
- <p>The sky is alive with hordes of glowing, wraith-like phantoms. They swoop down from the roiling storm clouds and skim the treetops, howling and screeching like angry banshees. A trio of these ghastly apparitions passes within a few yards of the cave mouth and startle the wild cat and her mewing cub. Terrified, they flee the cave and disappear into the pines.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you possess Kai-screen, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you do not possess Kai-screen, or have yet to attain this Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Time passes and you sense flashing motes of light streaking past your closed eyes, and faint far away sounds come dimly to your ears through the howling wind. Then, as suddenly as it began, the sensation of falling ceases and you feel yourself lurching forwards onto wet, rocky soil. Rain spatters your face and, when you open your eyes, you see that you have returned to Magnamund&ellips; and to terrible danger.</p>
- <p><quote>Kill him!</quote> It is the voice of Arch Druid Cadak. You have emerged from the Shadow Gate and now you lie on the ground between the great shimmering arch and Cadak's crystal dais. You have only just found your feet when a growling horde of vengeful acolytes close in upon you, eager to fulfil their leader's wish.</p>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A growling horde of vengeful acolytes close in upon you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="622"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="622"/>
- </illustration>
- <combat><enemy>Acolytes of Vashna</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>If you choose to use the Deathstaff as your weapon during this fight, you may add 10 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you win the combat (using the Deathstaff), <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you win the combat (without using the Deathstaff), <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your formidable mind skill, you create a protective wall around your will which deflects the woman's psychic power-charm. Her spell rebounds and the suddenness of this reversal completely overwhelms her senses. In an instant the light vanishes from her eyes and her face becomes blank and expressionless, like that of a mask of a mindless automaton.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You slay all but one Jackal. This bruised and blood-spattered cur flees from the shore, defeated but determined not to suffer the fate of the others. You pause to wipe the sticky gore from your weapon, then you mount your horse and set off along the rugged shoreline, foregoing the shelter of the horseshoe boulders in case the Jackal should return in the night with more of its ferocious brothers.</p>
- <p>Fortunately, you soon reach firmer ground and, by nightfall, you come to a sheltered cove where you find a warm hollow in which to set up camp for the night. Unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296">To continue, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Vakovarians falls dead at your feet, you step away from their heaped bodies and wipe the sweat of battle from your bloodied brow. You have slain the enemy but you can hear more of their kind stumbling across the boulders, eager to reach you and avenge the deaths of their brothers-in-arms.</p>
- <p>You retreat into the copse, using your Magnakai skills of Invisibility to keep you hidden from the advancing brigands. In their clumsy eagerness to enter the trees, they fail to notice you slip through their lines and circle around behind them. You have outwitted them but you are still anxious that they may find your horse. You move to higher ground in order to get a better view of the copse and, from a vantage point among the boulders, you observe their leader and three of his henchmen hiding nearby, crouched behind the bough of a fallen tree.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you possess a Bow and wish to fire an Arrow at the Brigand leader, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use the spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you decide to wait and observe these brigands a little longer, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the trough, you feel the token getting hotter in your pocket. Your Magnakai skill of Nexus protects you from the heat, yet it does not prevent the glowing token from setting your tunic alight. Immediately you smother the flames but the resulting smoke causes a commotion among the acolytes following behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you possess Grand Huntmastery and have attained the rank of Sun Lord, and wish to use your Discipline, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you have neither of the above, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, the raging winds cease and you fall unconscious to the floor of the dais. When you awaken you discover that you are entirely alone. The collapse of the Shadow Gate and the whirlwind which followed have consumed everything, save yourself and the crystal dais: no acolytes, no trace of the grand archway, no Deathstaff, not even the storms remain. Virtually all trace of Cadak's evil plan has been wiped from the surface of your world.</p>
- <p>Congratulations, Grand Master Lone Wolf. You have triumphed. You have defeated the plan to resurrect Vashna and saved Magnamund from his rule of terror. But the fight against Evil is not yet over. The collapsing Shadow Gate destroyed everything it consumed&ellips; everything, that is, with one exception. That exception returns to haunt you in the next Grand Master adventure, entitled:</p>
- <p><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Maakengorge & Surrounding Territories</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="207" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
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- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
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- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
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- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>, <quote>no Kai lord</quote> with <quote>no Kai Lord</quote>, <quote>strongholds fierce</quote> with <quote>strongholds, fierce</quote>, <quote>Right-Handed Magic</quote> with <quote>Right-handed magic</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>, <quote>Dark God and</quote> with <quote>Dark God, and</quote>, <quote>vigilant for</quote> with <quote>vigilant, for</quote>, <quote>free-state</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>, <quote>body, and those</quote> with <quote>body, along with those</quote>, <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>, and <quote>quickly and</quote> with <quote>quickly, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For ease of use, and for further adventuring, it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote> and <quote>on the last page of this book</quote>. Changed <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> to <quote><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote> according to <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 24</cite>. Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote> and <quote>opposite and overleaf</quote> with <quote>below</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>smell and</quote> with <quote>smell, and</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>(ie,</quote> with <quote>(i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>Magador you</quote> with <quote>Magador, you</quote>, <quote>eg Gold</quote> with <quote>e.g. Gold</quote>, <quote>map of the area</quote> with <quote>map of the the Maakengorge and surrounding territories</quote>, <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, and <quote>adds 3 points</quote> with <quote>adds 5 points</quote>. Removed <quote>(see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Added a section about Gold Crowns which reads <quote>The currency of Magador is the Gold Crown. These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>, <quote>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 32)</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27)</quote>, and <quote>adds 3 points</quote> with <quote>adds 8 points</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai-Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>. Replaced <quote>surface, eg:</quote> with <quote>surfaces, e.g.</quote>, <quote>ie.</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>, <quote>Kai Surge</quote> with <quote>Kai-surge</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>arrow, or arrow-like</quote> with <quote>Arrow or Arrow-like</quote>, <quote>lava and</quote> with <quote>lava, and</quote>, and <quote>body-weight</quote> with <quote>body weight</quote>. Added <quote>(7 Disciplines)</quote> after <quote>Sun Lord</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</quote> and <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p><cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 24</cite> states: <quote>In Lone Wolf 16, the Improved Discipline of Kai-surge (at rank of Sun Lord) is not fully explained (a sentence is missing from the paragraph). A Kai Sun Lord using Kai Blast [sic] determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a '0' = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted.</quote>. This missing information has been added to the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Grand Master's Wisdom</a>) Moved this section of the book to its normal position after <a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>skyship Skyrider</quote> with <quote>skyship, <cite>Skyrider</cite></quote> and <quote>scroll</quote> with <quote>Scroll</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>animal kinship</quote> with <quote>Animal Kinship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) Replaced <quote>beyond is</quote> with <quote>beyond are</quote>, <quote>Nexus, and</quote> with <quote>Nexus and</quote> and <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) Replaced <quote>tier and</quote> with <quote>tier, and</quote> and <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect9">9</a>) Replaced <quote>hand you</quote> with <quote>hand, you</quote>, <quote>appear but</quote> with <quote>appear, but</quote>, and <quote>panther you</quote> with <quote>panther, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>Durncrag scavenger</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Scavenger</quote>, <quote>most-favoured</quote> with <quote>most favoured</quote>, <quote>weakened state and this</quote> with <quote>weakened state, and this</quote>, <quote>state and</quote> with <quote>state, and</quote>, <quote>skull and, as</quote> with <quote>skull, and as</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>, <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>sun and</quote> with <quote>sun, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>Vakovarian brigand captain</quote> with <quote>Vakovarian Brigand Captain</quote> and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>will and</quote> with <quote>will, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>T'is</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'Tis</quote> and <quote>not less</quote> with <quote>not 'less</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>psi-screen</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>, <quote>sudden massive</quote> with <quote>sudden, massive</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) Replaced <quote>doorway and</quote> with <quote>doorway, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced <quote>over and, as</quote> with <quote>over, and as</quote>, <quote>them you</quote> with <quote>them, you</quote>, <quote>can and so you</quote> with <quote>can. You</quote>, <quote>chase but</quote> with <quote>chase, but</quote>, and <quote>and they give</quote> with <quote>and give</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>) Replaced <quote>strike an</quote> with <quote>strike, an</quote>, <quote>this time,</quote> with <quote>this time!</quote>, <quote>alive.</quote> with <quote>alive!</quote>, <quote>Bow and arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>Sun Lord or higher,</quote> with <quote>Sun Lord,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote> and <quote>prey on which</quote> with <quote>prey with which</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced <quote>huntmastery</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery</quote> and <quote>swarthy-face</quote> with <quote>swarthy-faced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>Kraagenskul</quote> with <quote>Kraagenskûl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>Vortex</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>, <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>, and <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>curing</quote> with <quote>Curing</quote>, <quote>Vakovarian brigands</quote> with <quote>Vakovarian Brigands</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect44">44</a>) Replaced <quote>dim blue</quote> with <quote>dim, blue</quote>, <quote>streches</quote> with <quote>stretches</quote>, and <quote>light and in its dim glow you</quote> with <quote>light, and in its dim glow, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) Removed the superfluous semicolon in <quote>region; has</quote>&emdash;the original print has a suspicious looking smudge that makes no sense in this context. Replaced <quote>says, as</quote> with <quote>says as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, and <quote>Black corvayl</quote> with <quote>Black Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>them they</quote> with <quote>them, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) Replaced <quote>psychic ability</quote> with <quote>psychic abilities</quote> and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility yet</quote> with <quote>invisibility, yet</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>runic disc</quote> with <quote>Runic Disc</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>eagle eyes</quote> with <quote>eagle-eyes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Net</quote>. Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Replaced <quote>bandits and</quote> with <quote>bandits, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote> and <quote>ascend but</quote> with <quote>ascend, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> and <quote>peak but</quote> with <quote>peak, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>gods</quote> with <quote>Gods</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>huntmastery</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery</quote>, <quote>desolate but</quote> with <quote>desolate, but</quote>, and <quote>streets and</quote> with <quote>streets, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks around <quote>Counterspell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>downpour you</quote> with <quote>downpour, you</quote> and <quote>summonation</quote> with <quote>summoning</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>. Added a comma after the first <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>. Replaced <quote>flood you</quote> with <quote>flood, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>strong and</quote> with <quote>strong, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>) Replaced <quote>arm lock</quote> with <quote>armlock</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote> and <quote>acolyte Elders</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elders</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>) Replaced <quote>huntmastery</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery</quote> and <quote>desolate but</quote> with <quote>desolate, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>deck and</quote> with <quote>deck, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>Guardian,</quote> with <quote>Guardian or higher,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>Black Talisman</quote> with <quote>Black Amulet</quote> and <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks from <quote>Sense Evil</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>scavengers</quote> with <quote>Scavengers</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>drop and</quote> with <quote>drop, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>dawn the</quote> with <quote>dawn, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>Crack!</quote> with <quote>crack!</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>rips</quote> with <quote>rip</quote> and <quote>flame and suddenly</quote> with <quote>flame. Suddenly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>One by one his</quote> with <quote>One by one, his</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced all occurences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>, <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>t'is</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'tis</quote> and <quote>At first I, too, made</quote> with <quote>At first, I too made</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>investigate and your</quote> with <quote>investigate. Your</quote> and <quote>acolyte of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolyte of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote> and <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Replaced <quote>Citystate</quote> with <quote>City-state</quote> and <quote>destoyed</quote> with <quote>destroyed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Removed the quotation marks from <quote>Invisible Fist</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>) Replaced <quote>hesitation he</quote> with <quote>hesitation, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>bow and draw an arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and draw an Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow and the arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and the Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Removed <quote>, or higher</quote> from <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> since Sun Lord is the highest available rank in this book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Replaced <quote>shore and</quote> with <quote>shore, and</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>off-balance</quote> with <quote>off balance</quote>, <quote>them you</quote> with <quote>them, you</quote>, <quote>can and</quote> with <quote>can, and</quote>, <quote>heels, pausing</quote> with <quote>heels pausing</quote>, and <quote>chase but</quote> with <quote>chase, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>sun-sword</quote> with <quote>Sun-sword</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>) Replaced <quote>bow, draw an arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow, draw an Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>healing</quote> with <quote>Healing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote> and replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>adgana</quote> with <quote>Adgana</quote> and <quote>long discordant</quote> with <quote>long, discordant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>far sinister</quote> with <quote>far more sinister</quote> and <quote>psi-screen</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Removed the quotation marks from around <quote>Levitation</quote> and replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote>. Removed the choices at the end since they are superfluous: Lone Wolf must have Kai-alchemy to reach this section. The choices read:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>If you possess Kai-alchemy, turn to 57.</p>
- <p>If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, turn to 282.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The single remaining choice now reads:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>Turn to 57.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> and <quote>animal control</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>) Replaced <quote>Vasha</quote> with <quote>Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote> and <quote>unconscious and</quote> with <quote>unconscious, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>battle frenzy</quote> with <quote>battle-frenzy</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>we celebrate</quote> with <quote>We celebrate</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote> and <quote>swoop</quote> with <quote>swoops</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>) Replaced <quote>command and</quote> with <quote>command, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>If you do not possess these skills, or if you have yet to attain the rank of Sun Lord,</quote> with <quote>Otherwise,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>guttering</quote> with <quote>gutter</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>and it makes</quote> with <quote>which makes</quote> and <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Replaced both occurrences <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote> and <quote>in our midst,</quote> with <quote>in our midst!</quote>, and <quote>Cadak, maniacally, &lsquot;You</quote> with <quote>Cadak maniacally. &lsquot;You</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>, <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote>, and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>scavengers</quote> with <quote>Scavengers</quote>, <quote>paces for</quote> with <quote>paces, for</quote> and <quote>attack; they</quote> with <quote>attack: they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>whom you almost collided with</quote> with <quote>with whom you almost collided</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>screwjaws</quote> with <quote>screwjaw</quote> and <quote>drunkard, when</quote> with <quote>drunkard when</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>tunic, and</quote> with <quote>tunic and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>bow and draw an arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and draw an Arrow</quote> and <quote>jaw</quote> with <quote>jaws</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>, <quote>acolyte Elders</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elders</quote>, <quote>face it you see, two</quote> with <quote>face it, you see two</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>) Removed <quote>, or higher</quote> from <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote>since Sun Lord is the highest available rank in this book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Replaced <quote>Huntmastery you</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>scavenger</quote> with <quote>Scavenger</quote>, <quote>most-favoured</quote> with <quote>most favoured</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>Jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>, <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>, <quote>animal kinship</quote> with <quote>Animal Kinship</quote>, and <quote>so you</quote> with <quote>so, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote> and replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>healing</quote> with <quote>Healing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>) Replaced <quote>to the gallop</quote> with <quote>to a gallop</quote> and both occurences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>, <quote>mitts</quote> with <quote>Mitts</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>cloaks</quote> with <quote>Cloaks</quote>, <quote>corvayl</quote> with <quote>Corvayl</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>pelts</quote> in the sale list with <quote>Pelts</quote>, <quote>White wolf</quote> with <quote>White Wolf</quote>, and <quote>hides</quote> with <quote>Hides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect227">227</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>man, clad in furs clutching</quote> with <quote>man clad in furs and clutching</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>. Replaced <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>horseshoe circle</quote> with <quote>horseshoe shape</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>cloud of crypt spawn</quote> with <quote>cloud of Crypt Spawn</quote> and <quote>Crypt spawn</quote> with <quote>Crypt Spawn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Replaced <quote>After a short while he says.</quote> with <quote>After a short while he says,</quote> and moved that phrase into the beginning of the fourth paragraph rather than at the end of the third. Replaced three occurences of <quote>amulet</quote> with <quote>Amulet</quote>. Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced <quote>hunting</quote> with <quote>Hunting</quote>, <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, and <quote>longer ,</quote> with <quote>longer,</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>animal control</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>Then, as you round a knoll of rock, shaped</quote> with <quote>Then as you round a knoll of rock shaped</quote> and <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Be brave, Grand Master. But most of all&emdash;be swift!</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>approaching.</quote> with <quote>approaching from.</quote>, <quote>domain, a</quote> with <quote>domain: a</quote>, and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>runic disc</quote> with <quote>Runic Disc</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>north-easterly</quote> with <quote>northeasterly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) Replaced <quote>Black corvayl</quote> with <quote>Black Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>psi-screen</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>) Replaced <quote>Vakovarian brigands</quote> with <quote>Vakovarian Brigands</quote> and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>. Replaced <quote>be&emdash;a lowly acolyte of Vashna</quote> with <quote>be: a lowly Acolyte of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>humble-but-honest</quote> with <quote>humble but honest</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>) Removed <quote>, or higher</quote> from <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> since Sun Lord is the highest available rank in this book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>chasm of doom</quote> with <quote>Chasm of Doom</quote> and <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) Replaced <quote>gold crowns</quote> with <quote>Gold Crowns</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Replaced <quote>Elder-magi</quote> with <quote>Elder Magi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>) Replaced <quote>belt pouch</quote> with <quote>Belt Pouch</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks from <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>ever-nearer</quote> with <quote>ever nearer</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>tracking</quote> with <quote>Tracking</quote> and <quote>Guardian, or</quote> with <quote>Guardian or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>) Replaced <quote>bow, draw an arrow from your quiver</quote> with <quote>Bow, draw an Arrow from your Quiver</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Magnakai Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>Thok!</quote> with <quote>thok!</quote>, and <quote>screams, and</quote> with <quote>screams and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>corvayl</quote> with <quote>Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> and <quote>north-easterly</quote> with <quote>northeasterly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>arching</quote> with <quote>arcing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>king's</quote> with <quote>King's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>token</quote> with <quote>Token</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote> and <quote>Guardian, or</quote> with <quote>Guardian or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Moved <quote>How can I help you, stranger?</quote> to the first paragraph and moved <quote>For an instant the look of suspicion returns to his beady eyes, then he sneers and says,</quote> to the third paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote> and <quote>ruins, by</quote> with <quote>ruins by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>Guardian, or</quote> with <quote>Guardian or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>stalagtites</quote> with <quote>stalactites</quote> and <quote>young teenage</quote> with <quote>young, teenage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>, and <quote>quiver</quote> with <quote>Quiver</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>automatons</quote> with <quote>Automatons</quote> and <quote>Kai Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>corvayl</quote> with <quote>Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>T'as been</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'T'as been</quote> and <quote>black corvayl</quote> with <quote>Black Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Replaced <quote>north-easterly</quote> with <quote>northeasterly</quote> and <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>, <quote>indentify</quote> with <quote>identifies</quote>, and <quote>acolyte of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolyte of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>tree-tops</quote> with <quote>treetops</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote> and <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>jackal</quote> with <quote>Jackal</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote> and removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>. Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6&endash;12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13&endash;20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Note this Scroll as a Special Item that doesn't take up any space on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) This is the correct answer to the crystal dais grid in <a idref="sect164">Section 164</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) This is the correct answer to Shamath's riddle in <a idref="sect189">Section 189</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) If you have already spent all of your money, you have a choice: you may either give her an item of comparable or greater value, or you may simply disregard this cost.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) This is the correct answer to second sequence of numbers on the crystal dais grid in <a idref="sect235">Section 235</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) You may also eat a single Meal and only lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) It is most likely that these Discipline bonuses are not intended to be cumulative.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) It is most likely that these Discipline bonuses are not intended to be cumulative.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect235">turn immediately to 235</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) The correct method for finding the solution of this riddle has eluded readers ever since <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite> was published (as befits a riddle posed by an immortal demoness). If you can find the correct solution, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon volunteers. The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect216">turn immediately to 216</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Since this attack is described as a <quote>Kai-blast</quote>, you should deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect141">turn immediately to 141</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and this Section describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) There is no indication whether or not the extra meals that you gather as you ride should also have a curative effect. If you decide that they do, record each on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as <quote>Meal +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) If you have already spent all of your money, you have a choice: you may either give her an item of comparable or greater value, or you may simply disregard this cost.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect11">Section 11</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect21">Section 21</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect60">Section 60</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect84">Section 84</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect97">Section 97</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect128">Section 128</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect152">Section 152</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect163">Section 163</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect202">Section 202</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect215">Section 215</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect226">Section 226</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect241">Section 241</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect250">Section 250</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect261">Section 261</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect285">Section 285</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect319">Section 319</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect327">Section 327</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect345">Section 345</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Maakengorge & Surrounding Territories</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect339">339</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect12">12</a>, <a idref="sect279">279</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect53">53</a>, <a idref="sect220">220</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect62">62</a>, <a idref="sect332">332</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect6">6</a>, <a idref="sect63">63</a>, <a idref="sect94">94</a>, <a idref="sect110">110</a>, <a idref="sect157">157</a>, <a idref="sect162">162</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect87">87</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect105">105</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect133">133</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect137">137</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect164">164</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect188">188</a>, <a idref="sect247">247</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect194">194</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect218">218</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect235">235</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
- </section>
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-Revision 1.20 2006/12/07 01:39:56 jonathan.blake
-Removing superfluous footnote data
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-Revision 1.19 2006/06/08 19:30:45 jonathan.blake
-To be published today.
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-Revision 1.18 2006/06/05 23:45:21 jonathan.blake
-Miscellaneous fixes for the day.
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-Revision 1.17 2006/06/03 00:07:07 jonathan.blake
-Check in of various changes.
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-Revision 1.16 2006/05/23 23:38:31 jonathan.blake
-More miscellaneous fixes
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-Revision 1.15 2006/05/20 00:04:07 jonathan.blake
-lots of little miscellaneous fixes
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-Revision 1.14 2006/05/16 23:03:29 jonathan.blake
-More fixes to illustrations and unresolved issues.
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-Revision 1.13 2006/05/11 23:33:30 jonathan.blake
-Added small illustrations
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-Revision 1.12 2006/04/07 23:33:17 jonathan.blake
-Corrected illustration dimensions and converted to the new "illref" mechanism (apparently not correctly)
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-Revision 1.9 2005/10/25 22:42:08 jonathan.blake
-Finished the first run through of the corrections list. Still some issues to address when I have a printed copy of the book in my hands.
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-Revision 1.8 2005/10/17 18:33:01 jonathan.blake
-Still more incremental updates. More to follow.
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-Revision 1.7 2005/09/30 22:30:44 jonathan.blake
-Commitment of partial errata fixes. More to come.
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-Revision 1.6 2005/05/18 18:27:19 jonathan.blake
-Commiting (ne) changes from jffdougan
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-Revision 1.5 2005/03/30 16:48:34 jonathan.blake
-jffdougan said: "Implemented reported (ne) fixes, except as noted. Included pending fixes as comments prior to frontmatter. Encoded proper spell names where they occur."
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-Revision 1.4 2005/03/29 18:58:44 jonathan.blake
-jffdougan said: "Finished formatting frontmatter; inserted blank endmatter template from 16tlov. Copied relevant errata & footnotes. Need blurb, dedication & original copyright date. Added primary illustration placements & captions, with placeholder size of 60x60. Updated table of primary illustrations."
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--->
-
- <meta>
- <title>The Deathlord of Ixia</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2006</year><month>6</month><day>8</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>Kai Grand Master of Sommerlund. Far away to the west lies the peninsula of Ixia. It is an icy, desolate wasteland that for 10,000 years has been the domain of Lord Ixiataaga<ch.emdash/>Masterlord of the Dead. Here he reigns supreme over a horde of lost souls, an undead populace who are condemned to an eternity in his service.</p>
- <p>In <cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>, you must journey to the forbidden city of Xaagon<ch.emdash/>the seat of Lord Ixiataaga<ch.apos/>s dark power<ch.emdash/>and confront him in a life-or-death battle which will test your Grand Master abilities to the limit. Will you overcome and defeat this terrifying entity? Or will you fall victim to his undead legions and the terrible new power they wield?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> 1991 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">For Chris Smith</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Peter Cook</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br/>Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt>Action Charts</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Robert Hartley (Sections 211<ch.endash/>350)<br/>Timothy Pederick(Sections 141<ch.endash/>210)<br/>Martin Ryland (Frontmatter and Sections 1<ch.endash/>140)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>Jeff Dougan<br/>Jacob Humphrey<br/>Ingo Kl<ch.ouml/>cker<br/>Simon Osborne<br/>Timothy Pederick<br/>Jennifer Sigman<br/></dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Andre Davidson</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="tssf-1-foot" idref="tssf-1">
- <p>There is some confusion around the use of the term <quote>Old Kingdom</quote> in this book. Although the native Ixians are often described as belonging to the <quote>time of the Old Kingdoms</quote> (<a idref="sect152">Section 152</a>), it is clear from the fact that the Deathlord destroyed them during the Age of Eternal Night that they could not have existed during the Age of the Old Kingdoms which began more than 1000 years after the Age of Eternal Night ended. (See <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, <quote>Magnamund Then and Now</quote>.) The author may have used the term <quote>Old Kingdom</quote> to refer to any humanoid nation prior to the appearance of the Shianti.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of your <!--ERRTAG-RE-5555--><ch.eacute/>lite<!--/ERRTAG-RE-5555--> warrior caste.</p>
- <p>It is the year MS 5077, twenty-seven years since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by <!--ERRTAG-RE-6583-->Naar, the King<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6583--> of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund, have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain<ch.emdash/>the Darklands<ch.emdash/>and caused the destruction of their leader and the seat of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, most notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war which allowed the <!--ERRTAG-RA-6514-->Freeland<!--/ERRTAG-RA-6514--> armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Their commanders exploited the chaos skilfully and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
- <p>For seven years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a Second Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well established. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possess latent Kai skills and show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the Monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai Lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection<ch.emdash/>to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai Monastery and the training of the Second Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded for within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. The Kai Masters rose to their newfound responsibilities readily, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the Monastery, a hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power which you had recovered during your quest for the Magnakai. It was here, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, that you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors<ch.emdash/>Banedon and Rimoah<ch.emdash/>you worked hard to develop your innate <!--ERRTAG-RE-12767-->Grand Master Disciplines and grasp<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12767--> the fundamental secrets of Left-handed and Old Kingdom magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now, for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
- <p>At this time many changes were occurring beyond the borders of Sommerlund. In the regions to the northeast of Magador and the Maakengorge, the Elder Magi of Dessi and the Herbwardens of Bautar were working together in an effort to restore the dusty volcanic wasteland to its former fertile state. It was the first tentative step towards the reclamation of all the Darklands. However, their progress was painfully slow, and both parties were resigned to the fact that their efforts to undo the damage caused by the Darklords would take centuries to complete.</p>
- <p>Elsewhere, throughout Northern Magnamund, peace reigns victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms rejoice in the knowledge that the age of the Darklords has finally come to an end. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of Naar come in many guises and there are those upon Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
- <p>Already your newfound skills have been tested against Naar<ch.apos/>s agents and you have, on each occasion, acquitted yourself admirably. But your continuing victories against his minions have enraged the Dark God and inflamed his lust for vengeance. Earlier this year you thwarted Naar<ch.apos/>s plans to revive Vashna, the greatest of all the Darklords, whose spirit is trapped deep within the fathomless reaches of the Maakengorge<ch.emdash/>the chasm of doom. Vashna<ch.apos/>s spirit has remained there in uneasy entombment ever since the day, long ago, when he and his army were defeated in battle by King Ulnar I of Sommerlund. Your brave and courageous actions prevented Naar<ch.apos/>s agents from summoning to Magnamund a demoness named Shamath from the Plane of Darkness. This supernatural creature possessed the Deathstaff<ch.emdash/>an artefact of great evil forged by Naar himself<ch.emdash/>with which she could have resurrected Vashna and his army from the Maakengorge. Yet your timely intervention destroyed the <!--ERRTAG-RA-12477-->Shadow Gate<!--/ERRTAG-RA-12477--> through which she was travelling, and by so doing, you imprisoned the demoness Shamath in the limbo which exists between your world and the Plane of Darkness.</p>
- <p>Confident in the belief that you had saved Magnamund from the demoness and the Deathstaff, you returned triumphantly to Sommerlund. Several months later, however, as the year was drawing to a close, Lord Rimoah came unexpectedly to the Kai Monastery seeking an urgent audience. With growing dismay you listened as he relayed ill news<ch.emdash/>the Deathstaff had reappeared in Magnamund. The threat to the peace of your fragile world was greater now than ever before.</p>
- <p><quote>When you destroyed the <!--ERRTAG-RA-12477-->Shadow Gate<!--/ERRTAG-RA-12477--> at Maakengorge, Grand Master,</quote> said Lord Rimoah, as the two of you discussed the matter in the secure privacy of your vault below the Kai Monastery, <quote>you banished Shamath to the void, hopefully for all eternity. Yet, alas, the weapon she possessed did not go with her. Naar<ch.apos/>s accursed Deathstaff has since returned to this world through another <!--ERRTAG-RA-12477-->Shadow Gate<!--/ERRTAG-RA-12477-->, one that lies far away to the west, on a remote and icy peninsula that is called Ixia.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>My lord, do you wish me to go to Ixia<ch.emdash/>to find and destroy the Deathstaff before another of Naar<ch.apos/>s agents can use it against us? Is this why you have come seeking my help?</quote> you replied, expecting Rimoah to affirm your assumption.</p>
- <p><quote>Partly so, my lord,</quote> he said, holding you with his steel-grey eyes, <quote>but I fear that already it has fallen into the hands of an enemy<ch.emdash/>and one who is deadlier than even the demoness Shamath. What do you know of the Deathlord of Ixia?</quote></p>
- <p>You faintly remembered having heard this name before but were unable to recall any detail. Lord Rimoah, seeing that you were unable to give an answer, obliged with an impromptu history lesson:</p>
- <p><quote>The Deathlord of Ixia was once lieutenant to Agarash the Damned<ch.emdash/>the most powerful of all Naar<ch.apos/>s champions of evil,</quote> said Rimoah, his head bowed as he paced the granite floor of your vault. <quote>During the Age of Eternal Night he conquered much of Northern Magnamund, including the realm of Ixia which was once a rich and very fertile land. He destroyed the native Ixians, transforming them into a legion of undead servants under his command.<footref id="tssf-1" idref="tssf-1-foot"/> Many centuries later, when my ancestors defeated Agarash during the <!--ERRTAG-RE-17262-->Age of War<!--/ERRTAG-RE-17262-->, they magically imprisoned the weakened Deathlord in a secret tomb within the dread city of Xaagon, near to the southern coast of Ixia. For thousands of years his tomb lay undisturbed until the first of the Drakkarim appeared on Magnamund. They entered Xaagon and found the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s tomb<ch.emdash/>yet legend has it that none of them escaped Ixia alive. Perhaps they, too, serve him now. During the Age of the Black Moon, the Darklords conquered all of the territories surrounding Ixia yet they chose to avoid setting foot in the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s realm. Mindful of his origins, they feared that if he were released from his sorcerous prison he would seek to dominate and destroy them.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>My lord, are you telling me that the Deathlord of Ixia is now free of this prison <em>and</em> in possession of the Deathstaff?</quote> you asked, fearing Lord Rimoah<ch.apos/>s reply.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, Grand Master. I<ch.apos/>m afraid that is exactly the situation which confronts us. Since the passing of the last moon, I and others of the High Council of the Elder Magi have detected a great imbalance between the forces of Good and Evil in our world. By ill chance or by Naar<ch.apos/>s design, the Deathstaff has fallen into the hands of Ixiataaga. Once again the Deathlord is free to indulge his unholy and insatiable appetite for living beings. Already we have heard reports from Lencian fishermen which tell of the destruction of remote Drakkarim settlements around the Gulf of Konkor, and there are even claims of a <ch.apos/>death fleet<ch.apos/> having been sighted in the waters of the Shakoz Bight. Yes, Grand Master, the Deathlord is free to roam the face of Magnamund once more, and I fear he will not stop until every living creature is enslaved to him in undeath.</quote></p>
- <p>For hours, you and your trusted advisor deliberated over what could be done to prevent this unspeakable disaster from befalling Magnamund. You considered a muster of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-6514-->Freeland<!--/ERRTAG-RA-6514--> armies and an immediate attack upon Ixia, but such a plan simply could not be executed. The peninsula of Ixia is far too remote and desolate a territory to be reached by any <!--ERRTAG-RA-6514-->Freeland<!--/ERRTAG-RA-6514--> army on foot, and, with winter already so far advanced, any ship-borne invasion would be doomed to fail. Time was also against you. The Deathlord had to be stopped as quickly as possible before he could unleash an army of undead upon Magnamund, an unkillable army that would grow larger with every battle it fought against the living.</p>
- <p><quote>Only I can stop this,</quote> you said, voicing your thoughts.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, Grand Master. Only you,</quote> replied Rimoah quietly.</p>
- <p>After a few moments<ch.apos/> silence, Rimoah continued, <quote>In expectation of your decision, preparations have already been made for your journey, Grand Master. I trust this doesn<ch.apos/>t offend you?</quote></p>
- <p>You smiled your consent.</p>
- <p><quote>Good. Then I shall call upon Guildmaster Banedon<ch.emdash/>he knows of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s rise and he has offered his ship <cite>Skyrider</cite> to hasten your journey westwards. He will tell you more about Ixia and how you will be conveyed there. Godspeed, Grand Master. I shall pray to Kai and Ishir to watch over you on this fateful mission.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list now includes the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in this book after being omitted beginning in <bookref book="14tcok" section="gamerulz">The Captives of Kaag</bookref>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the previous books and retrieve them at the outset of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For more than six years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><ch.emdash/>and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1<ch.endash/>16), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 17. These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses obtained upon completion of Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1<ch.endash/>5) or Magnakai (Books 6<ch.endash/>12) adventures.<footref id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot"/> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over from the Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1<ch.endash/>5) and Magnakai (Books 6<ch.endash/>12) series to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Books 13-onwards):<footref id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Silver Bracers</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Korlinium Scabbard</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6<ch.endash/>12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender<ch.ellips/> means you are skilled in two<ch.ellips/> weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13<ch.endash/>20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. For example, if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature<ch.apos/>s sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell, and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-27110-->Gods Kai and Ishir<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27110--> go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<footref id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot"/></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack<ch.emdash/>Mindblast<ch.emdash/>they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title><!--ERRTAG-RE-33045-->Magi-magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33045--></title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros<ch.emdash/>the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and <!--ERRTAG-RE-34720-->artefacts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-34720-->.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the fifth of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <bookref book="18dotd">Book 18</bookref>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline(s), your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <bookref book="18dotd"><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>.</bookref></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off on your long journey to Ixia you take with you a <a idref="map">map of the area</a> <!--ERRTAG-DE-35140/--> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1<ch.endash/>16), you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you can carry, but additional Crowns can be left in <!--ERRTAG-RE-35809-->safekeeping<!--/ERRTAG-RE-35809--> at your Monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take four items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p><!--ERRTAG-RE-37113-->Broadsword<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37113--> (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p><!--ERRTAG-RE-37196-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37196--> (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-37292-->Quiver<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37292--> (Special Items) This contains six <!--ERRTAG-RE-36319-->Arrows<!--/ERRTAG-RE-36319-->, record them on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-37805-->Dagger<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37805--> (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p><!--ERRTAG-RE-38196-->Sword<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38196--> (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 <!--ERRTAG-RE-38293-->Meals<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38293--> (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-38729-->Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38729--> (Backpack Item)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-39131-->Potion of Laumspur<!--/ERRTAG-RE-39131--> (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p><!--ERRTAG-RE-39691-->Axe<!--/ERRTAG-RE-39691--> (Weapons)</p></li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the four items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a <!--ERRTAG-RA-39864-->Quiver<!--/ERRTAG-RA-39864--> and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals <!--ERRTAG-RE-40946-->(e.g. Gold Dagger<!--/ERRTAG-RE-40946-->, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35<ch.minus/>30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection<ch.emdash/>to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender<ch.emdash/><em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="imprvdsc-1-foot" idref="imprvdsc-1">
- <p>The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery, you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian<ch.apos/>s bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes the tip of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this Discipline are able to wield two-handed weapons (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature<ch.apos/>s body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Discipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following <!--ERRTAG-RE-53768-->Brotherhood Spells<!--/ERRTAG-RE-53768-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Halt Missile</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. arrows, axes, crossbow bolts, etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2<ch.endash/>3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Strength</spell><ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.<footref id="imprvdsc-1" idref="imprvdsc-1-foot"/></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunlord">
- <meta><title>Sun Lord</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Lord (7 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, <!--ERRTAG-RE-58448-->i.e. they<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58448--> can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-blast<ch.emdash/>a pulse of intense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in one attack. A Kai Sun Lord using Kai-blast determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a <quote>0</quote> = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted. However, use of a Kai-blast will reduce a Sun Lord<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surface, e.g. water, mud, lava and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt><!--ERRTAG-RE-57185-->Magi-magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-57185--></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Penetrate</spell><ch.emdash/>This increases the penetrative energy of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</li>
- <li><spell>Energy Grasp</spell><ch.emdash/>This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-58099-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell><!--/ERRTAG-RE-58099-->, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunthane">
- <meta><title>Sun Thane</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Thane (8 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes with this Discipline are able to command an animal to fall asleep at will. Some hostile animals may be able to resist this command, but most will be affected by it in some way. The duration of effect and the number of animals which can be affected at one time will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this skill are able to conduct a Kai Exorcism. This ritual will banish any evil supernatural force that has taken possession of any goodly creature or object.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Thanes with this skill are able to protect themselves from the effects of being struck by natural electrical discharges, <!--ERRTAG-RE-59140-->i.e. lightning<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59140-->.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to alter the temperature of water by touch. By using this skill they are able to transform water into ice and vice versa. The volume of water affected, and the duration of effect, both increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to erect a special psychic defence called <spell>Mindfort</spell>. A <spell>Mindfort</spell> defence greatly reduces the effects of any psychic shock that would normally paralyse or weaken a lesser mortal.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Thane are able to use the following <!--ERRTAG-RE-60406-->Brotherhood Spells<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60406-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Slow Fall</spell><ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, Kai Sun Thanes are able to slow their rate of free-falling to three feet per second, thereby avoiding damage upon landing while the spell is in effect. The duration of the spell is limited at first, but it steadily increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Breathe Water</spell><ch.emdash/>Using this spell, a Kai Sun Thane is able to breathe underwater for ten minutes. The duration of effect increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-60783--><cite>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</cite><!--/ERRTAG-RE-60783--> section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master<ch.apos/>s Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ixia is a cruel and treacherous region. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for you can expect no help at all from the fell creatures who dwell in this remote territory.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will encounter during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all. If you discover items, be selective in what you choose to keep.</p>
- <p>Pick your four Grand Master Disciplines with care, for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this adventure.</p>
- <p>May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you venture into the darkness of Ixia.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lord Rimoah removes a sphere of crystal from a pocket of his robe and holds it up to the lantern light. It is filled with a swirling grey mist. Softly he murmurs the words of an ancient spell and the mist clears to reveal the anxious face of your friend<ch.emdash/>Guildmaster Banedon. Rimoah speaks briefly to Banedon<ch.apos/>s image, requesting that he come to the Monastery at once.</p>
- <p><thought>I will be with you within the hour,</thought> says the voice of Banedon, a whisper in your mind.</p>
- <p>Your friend is in Toran, sixty miles to the north, yet he holds true to his word. In less than an hour he arrives at the Monastery aboard <cite>Skyrider</cite><ch.emdash/>his sleek flying ship. Two excited young <!--ERRTAG-RE-63440-->Kai Aspirants<!--/ERRTAG-RE-63440--> bring word of his arrival to the vault and you respond by making your way swiftly to the surface. Banedon<ch.apos/>s <cite>Skyrider</cite> is hovering above the training park, the hum of its magical engine amplified by the surrounding walls and battlements. It is dusk on this wintry evening and a shower of feathery snow is illuminated by the craft<ch.apos/>s lanterns. A rope ladder hangs from the bow rail to the frost-hardened earth.</p>
- <p><quote>Go aboard, Grand Master,</quote> <!--ERRTAG-RE-63972-->urges Rimoah.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-63972--> <quote>Banedon will advise you and provide you with what you<ch.apos/>ll be needing. I shall stay here and pray for your safe return.</quote></p>
- <p>You bid a hasty farewell to your mentor before climbing the dangling rope ladder with the legendary speed and grace that sets you apart from lesser warriors. Banedon is waiting as you haul yourself aboard. He greets you with a glad smile, yet his face cannot hide his deep concern for what may await you in Ixia. You wave a final farewell to Lord Rimoah, then you retreat to the warmth of Banedon<ch.apos/>s cabin as the <cite>Skyrider</cite> glides over the Monastery<ch.apos/>s southern wall and ascends into the leaden sky.</p>
- <p>Your friend Banedon has already set a course for Vadera, the principal city of Lencia, a destination which is more than a full day<ch.apos/>s flight west of Sommerlund. Were this not the first stage of a longer voyage to Ixia you would gladly welcome the chance to visit Vadera, for you have many friends there in the court of King Sarnac of Lencia.</p>
- <p>During the flight, Banedon details the plans which have been made on your behalf. King Sarnac himself has promised his help; he will provide you with a boat and a pilot to sail you from Vadera to Azgad Island, a desolate Lencian outpost in the Tozaz Sea. On your arrival there you will be transferred to a Lencian ice-boat, a craft specially built to withstand the power of the treacherous <!--ERRTAG-RE-65461-->pack-ice<!--/ERRTAG-RE-65461--> which clings to the Ixian shoreline at this time of the year.</p>
- <p><quote>The ice-boat will land you on the coast of Ixia, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Banedon, <quote>and then it will wait at anchor for you to return upon the completion of your mission.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How long will the <!--ERRTAG-RE-65775-->ice-boat<!--/ERRTAG-RE-65775--> wait for me?</quote> you ask, apprehensively.</p>
- <p><quote>If you do not return within <!--ERRTAG-RE-65937-->seven days, the pilot<!--/ERRTAG-RE-65937--> has orders to set sail for Vadera without you. The Tozaz in winter is a cruel and terrible sea<ch.emdash/>no ordinary man could hope to survive there for much longer than a week, no matter how strong his ship or plentiful his supplies. Which reminds me<ch.emdash/>if you are to survive your visit to Deathlord Ixiataaga<ch.apos/>s frigid realm, you will be needing some special protection.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you possess a Platinum Amulet, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Furtive and fretful, like dogs snuffling for a grounded fox, the undead Drakkarim encircle your hiding place and begin to close in upon you. It can only be a matter of moments before they find what they are looking for!</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you possess Kai-surge and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your dismay, the descending wave of Lavas reach the <!--ERRTAG-RE-67530-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-67530--> before you and form up in a protective circle around his ice-sheened body. Those that remain in the sky beat the air with their mighty wings, causing a powerful <!--ERRTAG-RE-67737-->down-draft<!--/ERRTAG-RE-67737--> which holds you at bay.</p>
- <p>Shielding your eyes from the stinging dust-choked winds, you look up and see that the Lavas leader is cradling the curious spiked metal bowl in its horny hands. He descends towards Tagazin and inverts it, and suddenly you realize its true purpose and design. It is a helm of power, affixed on top with a crystal spike. The Lavas places the helm upon the <!--ERRTAG-RE-68158-->Demonlord<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-68158--> head and the spike begins to glow menacingly.</p>
- <p>Now all of the Lavas ascend into the sky where they wait to view a confrontation which is about to commence. Suddenly Tagazin, revitalized by the power of the spiked helm, comes charging at you with his head lowered, snorting gruffly like a maddened bull.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect308">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You circle around the hall, keeping a wary eye on the frozen humanoids that line the walls in case your presence here should cause them to animate. Fortunately your caution proves unnecessary<ch.emdash/>they remain completely immobile.</p>
- <p>As you pass by the shimmering archway, you feel nausea rising from the pit of your stomach and a wave of dizziness makes you falter for a few moments: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, your dogged persistence pays off when you discover a partially-concealed panel in the wall. As you step nearer, it slides open to reveal a flight of steps which ascend to an empty chamber. Here you discover a door of opaque green crystal set flush into the north wall. Closer investigation reveals a curious lockplate positioned at its centre.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to examine this lock, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you choose to ignore the crystal door and return by the stairs to the entrance hall below, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You mistime your jump and land badly, breaking your right leg in three places and rendering yourself incapable of moving. Gritting your teeth against the intense pain, you draw on your healing skills to mend the broken bones. Unfortunately, before your legs have healed sufficiently for you to go on, you are crushed to death by a deluge of falling masonry.</p>
- <p>Your incredible courage has brought about the defeat of the evil Deathlord Ixiataaga, saving untold millions of living souls from an eternity of slavery in his service. So long as there is Good upon Magnamund you will never be forgotten. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for this victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here in the Crystal Spire of Xaagon.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a faint <!--ERRTAG-RE-71213--><onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia><!--/ERRTAG-RE-71213--> and the door opens without a sound. You walk through and emerge into a chamber composed entirely of polished black crystal, where you see myriad images of yourself trailing away into infinity within the mirror-smooth walls. At first you see only your own reflections, but when you cast your gaze around this eerie chamber you realize that you are not alone. Standing guard at an open archway are a trio of undead creatures, the like of which you have never encountered before. They are armed with barbed tridents which they hold loosely in their corpse-green hands.</p>
- <p>Suddenly they become aware of your presence and come scurrying forwards, their tridents raised in readiness to pin you to the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-72055-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72055-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your Magnakai skills of camouflage and psychic defence to shield your body and mind, you leave your hiding place and hurry through the open archway. Several hundred yards <!--ERRTAG-RE-72582-->beyond, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72582--> come to a wide stone staircase which ascends to a landing, positioned high above the underground lake and ice cavern. As you climb the steps, the sub-zero temperature plummets even further, making you shiver involuntarily, despite the combined protection of your Platinum Amulet and your Magnakai skills.</p>
- <p>At length you reach the landing to be greeted by the sight of two undead Ixian warriors standing guard at the mouth of a cave. Instinctively, you sidestep into the shadows to avoid being seen, but the Ixians show no reactions; <!--ERRTAG-RE-73183-->it is as if<!--/ERRTAG-RE-73183--> they have both been cast in stone.</p>
- <p>Beyond the open cave mouth you see a bleak and desolate wasteland of rock and ice. A blizzard is raging, whipped up by a fierce electrical storm that blazes above a distant mountain range. The jagged peaks are illuminated by the flashes of the storm<ch.apos/>s ghostly, blue-white fire.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small3" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small3" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Your Kai senses tell you that the evil sorcery which animates and controls the guards is temporarily dormant: these two skeletons currently pose no threat to your safety. However, the same cannot be said of the troop of undead Drakkarim warriors who, at this moment, are marching up the stairs behind you. Reluctantly, you leave the cave mouth and set off into the raging blizzard in search of the city of Xaagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you step into the light, a wave of acute pain washes through your body as the curtain of shimmering radiance swallows you up. You writhe in agony as gravity releases its hold on your body, and you feel yourself begin to rise: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are on the threshold of unconsciousness when suddenly the light fades and you find yourself kneeling on a floor of black crystal, staring at the reflection of your pain-wracked face in its highly-polished surface. Wearily you raise your aching head and see, to your horror, a trio of undead creatures scurrying towards you from an open archway. They have barbed tridents clasped in their corpse-green hands, held raised in readiness to pin you to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-75028-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75028-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64"><!--ERRTAG-RE-75303-->If you do not<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75303-->, or if you choose not to use either of the above, then <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stare upwards at the monstrous spire, you detect waves of pure evil radiating from its ice-sheathed surfaces. They seem to wax and wane in time with the crimson light pulsing from its tip. Your improved mastery also detects dangerously high concentrations of light in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-75861-->ultraviolet<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75861--> spectrum. So strong is this light that it physically sickens you, yet you find it hard to look away; you are both fascinated and repulsed by it.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you realize what it is that you are seeing and feeling: it is the evil power of Deathlord Ixiataaga himself. He is present here, somewhere inside this dread spire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect10-1-foot" idref="sect10-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the grid lock in <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a dull <onomatopoeia>clunk</onomatopoeia>, the lock disengages and the heavy portal creaks ajar.<footref id="sect10-1" idref="sect10-1-foot"/> Immediately you are greeted by a blast of frozen air as you push open the door and step out on to a viewing platform which is fixed to the outer metallic skin of this huge alien submarine. Away to your right you can see a line of ice-boats at anchor at the lake<ch.apos/>s edge, and to your left you notice a column of skeletal warriors. These are being led by a black-robed Cabalah, marching in mechanical fashion along a jetty towards the mouth of a tunnel which leads out of the vast ice cavern. Your keen Kai senses tell you that you have arrived in Ixia, and that the distant tunnel leads to the surface.</p>
- <p>You commit the position of the ice-boats to memory; if your mission is successful, you will be needing some means by which you can escape from Ixia. Then you carefully observe the area immediately surrounding the submarine, and notice that there are only two ways by which you can reach the distant tunnel<ch.emdash/>by the adjacent jetty, or by entering the icy waters of the lake and swimming to the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to attempt to reach the tunnel via the jetty, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you choose to attempt to reach the tunnel entrance by swimming from the submarine to the shore, <link-text>turn instead to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pilot the ship cautiously along a string of narrow fjords which cut an uncertain route through this treacherous field of icebergs. Using a mix of hand signals and telepathy, you send directions to the helmsman at the rear of the ship. It is a gruelling procedure which soon takes its toll on the nerves of all aboard.</p>
- <p>Every few minutes your vision is obscured by gusts of powdery snow which swirl across the deck, blown down from the tops of the surrounding ice cliffs. During one of these fierce blasts you are momentarily blinded. You clasp your hands to your stinging eyes and suddenly the incessant howl of the wind is accompanied by the tortured screech of the hull as it shudders along a bank of submerged ice. The impact sends the ship careering violently to port and almost hurls you overboard. You crash heavily against the rail and rebound to the deck where you lie for a few moments, stunned and gasping for breath: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Mindful of the deadly danger, you scramble to your feet and rush to the prow. The crew have been clearly terrified by the collision; most of them are cowering along the ship<ch.apos/>s rail, staring up at the encroaching walls of ice, their eyes haunted with fear as earnestly they offer prayers to the Goddess Ishir. Then, almost without any warning, the snow-laden wind abates and the ship emerges from the iceberg field into the open waters of the Tozaz Sea. The crew give a hearty cheer, relieved that their icy ordeal has at last come to an end. One man pulls the cork from a bottle of black rum which he has been keeping for a special occasion. He takes a mighty swig, then passes it to you. Just as you are about to take a swallow, unexpectedly you hear the helmsman<ch.apos/>s voice echoing along the deck: <quote>Ship ahoy!</quote></p>
- <p>Fear returns to tie a knot in your stomach as you turn and focus your eagle eyes upon the distant vessel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see that the Deathstaff is no longer vibrating with power. You sense that Ixiataaga has expended all of its unholy energy in one massive burst, in the hope of destroying you quickly and utterly. It will be several minutes before the Deathstaff recoups its dark powers<ch.emdash/>you must act swiftly if you are to turn this to your advantage.</p>
- <p>You raise the Sommerswerd and an umbrella of golden light bursts from its hilt to illuminate the debris-strewn chamber.</p>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote> you shout, and, with a single mighty leap, you traverse the fiery moat and land on the plinth within an arm<ch.apos/>s length of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s foul form. Your brave and bold action takes Ixiataaga aback, but he quickly recovers and, with unnerving speed, he spins around to counter your attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect214"><link-text>Turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With difficulty you retrieve the Sabito from your Backpack and force it into your mouth. Your lungs feel as if they are on fire, and you are barely moments away from slipping into unconsciousness when the Sabito takes effect. Quickly the feelings of nausea subside and your strength returns. This prized herb enables your body to absorb oxygen from the icy <!--ERRTAG-RE-81799-->seawater<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81799--> directly through the pores of your skin, negating the need to surface for air.</p>
- <p>In just a few minutes you reach the distant shoreline and break through the surface alongside a shallow stone causeway. Atop this causeway is a track, a spur of which branches off towards the tunnel entrance. With only your head visible above the lake, you cling to the causeway stones and wait patiently for a patrol of undead warriors to march past.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race up the treacherously frosty steps which lead to the open watchtower roof. There you find Prarg hurriedly loading a pantard<ch.emdash/>a heavy iron crossbow which is mounted on a rotating platform.</p>
- <p>Once again the freezing air is filled with cries of fear and chaos. Drawn by these frightful sounds, you run to the stone parapet and look down to see the great black ship come shuddering to a halt beside the harbour wall. Instantly, a horde of undead warriors leap on to the quayside and rush off in pursuit of the routing Lencians. Their eyes burn with an unnatural fire and they howl like demons as mercilessly they hunt down their human prey.</p>
- <p>Prarg has now loaded the pantard and he calls on you to act as gunner. You oblige by taking hold of the firing mechanism and swivelling the weapon around in search of your first target. Two spring readily to view: the mass of <!--ERRTAG-RE-83432-->undead that are swarming<!--/ERRTAG-RE-83432--> ashore, and a glowing glassy sphere which is mounted on a plinth beside the ship<ch.apos/>s wheelhouse.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill1" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill1" class="pdf"/>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you choose to fire at the undead horde, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you decide to fire at the glowing sphere, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced mastery, you lighten your body weight to prevent yourself from sinking any deeper into the mire. Moments later, you feel something brush past your leg for a second time and the chilling sensation galvanizes you into action.</p>
- <p>The walls of the shaft are mirror smooth for the first ten feet above the surface of the mire. But beyond this point you notice that they are <!--ERRTAG-RE-84736-->rough-hewn<!--/ERRTAG-RE-84736--> and studded with sharp spurs of rock. One such spur offers a tempting hand-hold<ch.ellips/> if only you could get to it. If you could reach it, it would be an easy task for a warrior of your agility to climb to the opening above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you possess a Rope (oiled or otherwise), <link-text>turn to 323</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you do not possess this Backpack <!--ERRTAG-RE-85157-->Item<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85157-->, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon the instant you strike your fatal blow the creature emits a piercing shriek and crumples to the floor of the cave. The stench of its rotting body makes you feel nauseous, but at least it is blocking the icy wind which whips through the open cave mouth. After satisfying yourself that it was the only one of its kind in this cave, you settle down in a corner and take a well-deserved rest: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289"><link-text>Turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few tense moments you pause to consider a plan of action. The radiant light from the archway raises the hairs on the nape of your neck<ch.emdash/>a sure sign that danger lies here. But as you focus on the eerie curtain of light, you sense that beyond it lies the only certain route by which you can gain access to the higher levels of this dread citadel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you wish to pass through the shimmering archway, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you decide to search for an alternative way of reaching the upper levels of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-87045-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-87045-->, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the Ixian ship and go in search of Captain Lanza. You find him with his men by the watchtower<ch.emdash/>they are building a bonfire out of rags and broken bones. A toothless sergeant empties a gallon of <!--ERRTAG-RE-87112-->skark oil<!--/ERRTAG-RE-87112--> on to the heap and a burning torch sets the whole thing ablaze.</p>
- <p>You stride over to Lanza and slap him heartily on the back. <quote>Well fought, Captain. You and your men have brought honour to Lencia this day.</quote></p>
- <p>Captain Lanza greets your compliment with a sombre face. <quote>Nay, sire,</quote> he says, sadly. <quote><ch.thinspace/><ch.apos/>Tis the enemy who<ch.apos/>ve won. The ice-boat is sunk and we cannot sail you to Ixia.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We can use the enemy ship, Captain,</quote> you reply. <quote>It is perfect for the task. All I need of you are some provisions and a crew.</quote></p>
- <p>Lanza<ch.apos/>s face brightens. He orders his men to prepare the Ixian ship and within the hour you are ready to set sail.</p>
- <p><quote>May the gods watch over you, Grand Master,</quote> says Prarg, as you bid him and Lanza farewell.</p>
- <p><quote>Do not fear,</quote> <!--ERRTAG-RE-88112-->you reply. <quote>I shall soon return.</quote><!--/ERRTAG-RE-88112--></p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect224">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you focus on the hole and attempt to will the lock to disengage itself.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of <!--ERRTAG-RE-88807-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88807--> you have <!--ERRTAG-RE-88888-->attained above<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88888--> that of Sun Knight, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect20-1-foot" idref="sect20-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the ancient, green crystal lock in <a idref="sect213">Section 213</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you project the correct number at the lockplate, the entire portal begins to shimmer and lose its solidity.<footref id="sect20-1" idref="sect20-1-foot"/> It becomes transparent and then fades completely, as if evaporating into thin air. With a smile of satisfaction on your lips at having solved the riddle, you step through the <!--ERRTAG-RE-89634-->now open<!--/ERRTAG-RE-89634--> archway and into an adjoining hall.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="pdf"/>
- <p>This vaulted, oblong-shaped hall is illuminated by flickerings of electrical fire which arc between two <!--ERRTAG-RA-90182-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-90182--> pillars at the far end of the chamber. Beyond the pillars you can make out the shadowy entrance to another chamber; it is the only other exit from this hall. You realize at once that to pass between the pillars could prove to be fatal: the power arcing between them is as great as any lightning storm raging in the skies above Xaagon. Yet there may be a way of avoiding contact with this raw power. You notice that the two <!--ERRTAG-RA-90182-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-90182--> pillars do not go all the way to the ceiling there is a gap, a little over two feet wide above them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to attempt to climb one of the pillars and squeeze through the gap in order to reach the adjoining hall, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you decide to throw caution to the wind and run between the pillars, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few dozen yards of the shoreline when you feel the body of a massive underwater creature come surging past. Battered by its swell, you fumble desperately to unsheathe your weapon as this fearsome monster circles around and comes powering through the dark water for a second attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ixian Gybia</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 points for the duration of this underwater combat, due to the lack of oxygen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">You may attempt to evade combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is in the thirtieth hour of your air voyage that the <cite>Skyrider<ch.apos/>s</cite> eagle-eyed lookout catches his first glimpse of Vadera. Word spreads quickly and a hubbub of excitement grips the dwarven crew as the flying ship draws ever closer to the fortified walls and turrets of the Lencian capital.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small2" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Skilfully Bo<ch.apos/>sun Nolrim lands the <cite>Skyrider</cite> on the paved courtyard in front of the Vadera Citadel, which has been cleared of crowds in expectation of your arrival. Awaiting you is a party of stern-faced Vadera officials who, with a minimum of fuss, escort you and Banedon directly to the court of King Sarnac.</p>
- <p><quote>We are honoured to welcome you once again to our city, Grand Master,</quote> says the silver-haired King. <quote>My only regret is the reason for your visit. I<ch.apos/>d have hoped our meeting would have been in less ominous circumstances.</quote></p>
- <p>Formally you acknowledge the King<ch.apos/>s greeting, then you turn to face the elderly man who is standing beside the King<ch.apos/>s throne. You recognized him as soon as you entered the King<ch.apos/>s chamber<ch.emdash/>he is Lord Ardan, an Elder Magi from Dessi, one of Lord Rimoah<ch.apos/>s countrymen.</p>
- <p><quote>Well met, my Lord,</quote> you say, and Ardan returns your greeting with a smile. Sadly, his smile soon fades when he says: <quote>No doubt your able companion, Guildmaster Banedon, has told you of the rise of evil in Ixia. Dire news indeed, Grand Master, for it threatens our very existence, most especially the existence of our Lencian friends. If the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s power is allowed to grow unchecked, Lencia will be the first <!--ERRTAG-RE-93654-->Freeland state<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93654--> to suffer his wrath.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I pledge to do all in my power to prevent such an outcome, my lord,</quote> you reply earnestly.</p>
- <p><quote>We have every faith in you, Lone Wolf,</quote> says King Sarnac, <quote>and we shall help you accomplish your mission in whatever way we can.</quote> He signals to one of his silver-armoured bodyguards and the soldier leaves the chamber. He returns shortly in the company of another man, clad in the court uniform of a Guard Captain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you took part in the Battle of Cetza, or have visited the city of Darke <!--ERRTAG-RE-94349-->in any previous Lone Wolf adventures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94349-->, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect129"><!--ERRTAG-RE-94491-->If you did not<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94491-->, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter a prayer to the Goddess Ishir to watch over your soul as you get ready to engage the attacking skeletal warriors.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-94868-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94868--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">55</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat and must fight to the finish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the wisps of black smoke are a manifestation of several evil beings, each possessed of a strong psychic presence. Fearing attack, you quickly draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen to construct a defensive wall to protect yourself from the possibility of psychic assault. It is a wise precaution, but one that proves ineffective against these powerful entities.</p>
- <p>Moments after your psychic wall is in place, the wisps streak across the chamber and encircle your body. They accelerate to a dizzying speed before launching a massive wave of psychic energy at your mind. This tidal wave batters <!--ERRTAG-RE-96008-->your Psi-screen<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96008--> and leaves you trembling with psychic shock: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill2" class="pdf"/>
- <p>As your shocked senses slowly return to normal, you see that the wisps of smoke have now solidified into six bodily forms. They have taken the appearance of large, spindly-limbed, black insectoids, each with a ghoulish <!--ERRTAG-RE-96797-->head from which<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96797--> composite eyes stare at you with evil intent. Chittering excitedly, the six creatures come stalking forwards, hungry for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to attempt to evade these hideous insectoids, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you have a <!--ERRTAG-RA-97160-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97160-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you choose not to evade them, or make use of a <!--ERRTAG-RA-97160-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RA-97160-->, <link-text>turn instead to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shrug aside the warnings of your <!--ERRTAG-RE-97640-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97640-->, assuming incorrectly that they relate to the danger posed to your safety by the advancing skeletal warriors. Unfortunately, you make a costly mistake. As your hand closes around the silvery rod, it discharges a second blast of energy which hits you squarely in the stomach and lifts you bodily off the floor with the numbing force of its impact: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you survive this severe wounding, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crouch down amongst the foul-smelling debris which litters the floor of the hold, watching with bated breath as a dozen undead warriors enter by the stairs and begin a systematic search. Your Kai <!--ERRTAG-RE-98551-->Camouflage<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98551--> skills make you virtually invisible to the eye, but these undead Drakkarim no longer have eyes<ch.emdash/>they are using powerful psychic probes in an effort to locate you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you possess Kai-screen and have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you do not possess this skill, or have yet to reach this level of <!--ERRTAG-RE-99039-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-99039-->, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach down into the mire and unsheathe your weapon, but it has only just cleared the scabbard when a terrible pain knifes through your lower right leg. The unseen pit-beast has clamped its powerful jaws around your calf and is attempting to drag you below the surface of the bog. Desperately you stab blindly with your weapon at the creature<ch.apos/>s head in an attempt to cut yourself free from its vice-tight grip.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Suggaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the evil yellow eyes of the creature slowly draw closer, you are suddenly engulfed by a fetid corpse-like stench which makes you retch and recoil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess the Sommerswerd and wish to use it in your defence, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you do not possess this Special Item, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced knowledge of Brotherhood magic, you recite the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-100780-->spell <spell>Slow Fall</spell> and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100780--> step into the gaping hole. Easily you glide down through the dust-choked air to land on the floor of the hall, fifty feet below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your <!--ERRTAG-RE-101182-->Kai Camouflage<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101182--> skills to minimize the risk of being seen, you climb down from the viewing platform and grab hold of a steel hawser which is securing the stern of the alien submarine to the jetty. Slowly you make your way along this great steel rope until you reach the jetty, where hurriedly you take cover among a stack of wooden crates and barrels. The jetty is teeming with undead soldiers who, under the direction of some spindly, black-clad creatures, are busily transferring materials to and from the open mouth of the submarine. Getting past them in order to reach the shore looks, at first sight, a near-impossible task. You are contemplating a swim to the shoreline, when suddenly you notice a means by which you could achieve your goal without getting wet.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon as the first of the Drakkarim undead come within arm<ch.apos/>s reach. Then, with frightening speed, they leap upon you from all sides.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Undead Drakkarim Search Party</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are sensitive to all forms of psychic attack; double all normal bonuses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodies of the ghastly creatures undergo a swift and gruesome transformation upon the instant you deal them the <foreign>coup de gr<ch.acirc/>ce</foreign>. Their torsos implode with dramatic effect, and they barely have time to cry out in agony as their twisted remains hit the floor and crumble to dust.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="pdf"/>
- <p>You sheathe your weapon and step away from the foul-smelling mounds of dust. Then you hurry out of this black-floored chamber by a short passage which leads into an adjoining hall. This vaulted, oblong shaped hall is illuminated by flickerings of electrical fire which arc between two <!--ERRTAG-RA-103910-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-103910--> pillars at the far end of the chamber. Beyond the pillars you can make out the shadowy entrance to another chamber; it is the only other exit from this hall.</p>
- <p>You realize at once that to pass between the pillars could prove to be fatal: the power arcing between them is as great as the lightning storm which is raging in the skies above Xaagon. Yet there may be a way of avoiding contact with this raw power. You notice that the two <!--ERRTAG-RA-103910-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-103910--> pillars do not go all the way to the ceiling<ch.emdash/>there is a gap, a little over two feet wide above them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to attempt to climb one of the pillars and squeeze through the gap in order to reach the adjoining hall, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you decide to throw caution to the wind and run between the pillars, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you smite Tagazin with your single, devastating blow, his body shatters into a million frozen pieces which cascade to the ground like an opaque crystal waterfall. You step back from his smashed and scattered remains, and glance skywards in time to see the second wave of Lavas come screaming out of the clouds. The sight makes you start and you take to your heels. You sprint the remaining few yards towards the Shadow Gate and, before the leading Lavas can block your escape, you dive headlong into its spinning core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the bony bodies of the two undead Drakkarim guards into the chamber and close the door before continuing your exploration. You proceed warily, moving like a shadow through a series of dingy, ice-caked corridors that wend their way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You encounter a confusing maze of empty holds where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through countless low-ceilinged chambers that despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. Eventually you come to a junction where the narrow corridor splits in <!--ERRTAG-RE-109630-->two directions.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-109630--></p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to take the left branch of this corridor, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you decide to take the right branch, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hideous creatures howl with glee as they fall upon you, like starving vultures descending upon a corpse.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Cabalah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">56</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">54</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These undead creatures are immune to <!--ERRTAG-RE-111090-->Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111090-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">You may evade this combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you make your way across the hall, <!--ERRTAG-RE-107138-->zigzagging<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107138--> to dodge pillars, chunks of stone, and the many bodies of Ixiataaga<ch.apos/>s former undead slave-warriors which are raining down from the shattered stairwell above. Assisted by your Kai Disciplines, eventually you reach the lowest level of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-108002-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-108002--> where the entrance hall and grand arch open out into the city. You are racing through a torrent of crystal dust towards the grand arch, the main exit, when a massive shockwave shakes the entire edifice. You are within seconds of escaping when, to your horror, you see the walls buckle and the grand arch begin to collapse.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 14 or less, deduct 1 from the number you have picked. If you <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 24 or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If your total is now 3 or lower, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you slay the second wave of undead, a third wave presses forward. They clamber awkwardly over the heaped bodies of those you have destroyed, their bony hands brandishing rusty blades and their eyes burning with a cold, devilish fire.</p>
- <p>Seizing your only chance, you retreat from this onrushing horde and evade them by descending a stair which leads down into the ship<ch.apos/>s hold. Above, you can hear the frenzied shouts of the Lencian crewmen as they are engaged by the undead Drakkarim in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Then the clatter of steel-shod boots on the steps alerts you to the fact that the Drakkarim have not given up the chase. As they begin to descend, you quickly scan the gloomy hold for a place to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have taken only a few dozen steps in pursuit of the sickly <!--ERRTAG-RE-109561-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-109561--> and his golden-winged escorts, when your presence is betrayed by the aura of goodly light your body is radiating whilst on this plane of existence. A wave of alarm spreads through the escorts when they detect your aura, and many of them take to the sky. Directed by a vengeful Tagazin, they circle around you and come diving down to attack you with beak and claw.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your <!--ERRTAG-RE-110397-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-110397-->, you focus on the encroaching mist and detect strange movements in the ultraviolet spectrum of light. You cannot discern exactly what is moving out there, but you are certain of one thing: it is evil and it is drawing ever closer to Fort Azgad.</p>
- <p>You warn Captain Lanza and at first he does not believe you. He chuckles, saying that it is not uncommon for new arrivals to imagine they have seen all manner of spectres in the sea mists which swirl around the fort. But then a loud, discordant bell rings out from above, and Lanza<ch.apos/>s face is transfixed with shock.</p>
- <p><quote>By the gods!</quote> he <!--ERRTAG-RE-111096-->splutters. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111096--> the alarm bell<ch.emdash/>we<ch.apos/>re under attack!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-111431-->At the instant<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111431--> you strike Tagazin the killing blow, his body shatters into a million frozen pieces which cascade to the ground. The spiked helm drops on top of his pile of smashed remains, crowning them, as if it were a marker fashioned for the <!--ERRTAG-RE-111723-->Demonlord<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111723--> grave.</p>
- <p>You look skywards to see the second wave of Lavas wheeling away in shocked disarray. They are visibly stunned by your unexpected victory and they flee to the safety of the clouds, fearful of tempting the fate that has befallen Tagazin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive over a low wall and roll across a mound of ancient rubble in order to break free from the fight. As you spring to your feet and sprint away, you draw on your Magnakai skills of camouflage and psychic defence to increase your chances of a successful escape. It is a wise move; the Cabalah give chase but they soon lose your trail as you make your way deeper into the ruins of Xaagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the gunwale, through a blinding wall of flame, and hit the sea feet first. The frigid water is shockingly cold, but your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus protects you from its numbing chill and you are able to surface quickly. Burning chunks of timber and sailcloth rain down all around as you strike out towards a flight of stone steps that rise out of the sea to the top of the quay.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, your escape from the blazing ice-boat does not go unnoticed. Upon reaching the steps you are met by a dozen skeletal warriors who are determined to slay you before you can haul yourself out of the icy water.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-113672-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-113672--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast. Also, because you are still in the icy water, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and lash out with blinding speed, striking dozens of blows in a matter of seconds, in order to save yourself from these chittering horrors.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dentaag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">51</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For an hour you trek through a swirling white oblivion of a blizzard, trusting solely to your keen survival instincts to keep you safe from rock falls and hidden crevasses. Yet, despite your skills, it proves to be a difficult and treacherous journey: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gradually, the storm lifts its heavy yoke. Although snow continues to fall, the wind loses its angry intensity and, for the first time since you left the cave mouth, you are able to see more than a mile distant. As you crest an icy ridge, you stop to get your bearings. You look to the south and see the brooding, grey-black waters of the Tozaz Sea lapping at the ice-locked Ixian coastline. To the north and west you are surrounded by unfriendly mountains, and to the east, directly ahead, lies a pass which cuts between two viciously sharp peaks. Beyond the pass you catch your first tantalising glimpse of Xaagon<ch.emdash/>the city of the Deathlord.</p>
- <p>You establish that you are less than three miles from the crystal walls and monstrous towers of Xaagon. You resolve to try and reach the city before the storm resumes but, as you enter the pass, the blizzard returns with malicious vigour. Finding it impossible to continue, you stop and use your Kai skills in order to seek sanctuary from the raging storm.</p>
- <p>In this narrow pass you detect only two possibilities for shelter: a cave on the north side, and a circle of fallen rocks a few hundred yards away to the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you wish to take shelter in the cave, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If you choose to seek shelter among the rocks, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tagazin quickly recovers from your psychic attack and launches himself through the air at you, his clawed paws outstretched in readiness to tear your flesh.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill3" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill3" class="pdf"/>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Before commencing the combat procedure, reduce your enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by the number you have noted in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may use Kai-surge again to aid you during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If, at any time during this fight, you reduce Tagazin<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 25 or less, do not continue. <link-text>Turn instead to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The metal door of this cell is sheathed with ice and there is no visible means of opening it only a hexagonal-shaped keyhole. You crouch down, so that your face is level with the keyhole, then you form your lips into an O-shape in readiness to utter the power word <!--ERRTAG-RE-118529-->battle-spell<!--/ERRTAG-RE-118529--> you once learned from Lord Rimoah. The instant the spell-thoughts focus in your mind, you project the <!--ERRTAG-RE-118714-->power word <spell>Gloar!</spell> at<!--/ERRTAG-RE-118714--> the keyhole.</p>
- <p>Use of this spell so soon after recovering consciousness costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly before <link-text>turning to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive and roll over several times to avoid the onrushing bolt of energy. The massive flame-ball passes over your back and explodes through the far wall of the chamber with devastating effect. It tears open a hole in the steel-hard crystal measuring more than ten feet in diameter, and it fills the air with razor-sharp shards. You are peppered in the back by these splinters: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you stagger to your feet, you suddenly see an opportunity to seize the initiative and carry the attack to the Deathlord.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike down the last of your skeletal foes, you hear Captain Lanza<ch.apos/>s stirring <!--ERRTAG-RE-120076-->battle-cry<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120076--> ring out above the noise of the fighting: <quote>For Lencia and the House of Sarnac!</quote> Despite the odds, he and his men have beaten back the enemy and are now within a stone<ch.apos/>s throw of the quay. You rush to the end of the street and join them at a small flagstoned square, close to the harbour wall.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small2" class="pdf"/>
- <p><quote>Captain<ch.emdash/>we must save the ice-boat!</quote> you shout, pointing to the ship which is being attacked by the skeleton horde. <quote>Indeed we must,</quote> he replies, dourly. He orders a handful of his men to form a protective wall around you and, the moment their shields lock together, you move with them towards the ice-boat.</p>
- <p>Twenty yards from the quayside, you break away from the wall and sprint towards the ship<ch.apos/>s gangplank. You are halfway along the plank when you find yourself confronted by a wedge of skeletal warriors, armed with crude axes and swords. You leap into their midst, striking them down with blurring speed and deadly accuracy. But as the last one falls, its corpse-like body almost severed at the waist, you hear a noise behind you which makes you spin around in fearful expectation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rely on your natural agility to descend from the top of the pillar. You achieve the task swiftly, yet your continued close proximity to the deadly electrical rays takes its toll: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The moment your feet touch the coal-black floor you hurry away towards the shadowy exit, eager to distance yourself from the debilitating power that is arcing between the pillars.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you twist the key in the lock, a stunning jolt of raw electrical power runs up your arm and across your chest. The sudden pain makes you cry out in shocked surprise and desperately you attempt to let go of the key. But it is no use<ch.emdash/>the current holds you firmly in its agonizing grip: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Then you hear approaching footsteps and frantically you redouble your efforts to free your pain-numbed fingers from the electrified key. A troop of a dozen undead warriors appear on the landing and, upon seeing you, they come rushing forwards with swords drawn.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-122808-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-122808--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">47</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to your painful predicament, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 8 points for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take over control of the helm and send a man forward to the bow with instructions to keep his eyes on the ship<ch.apos/>s waterline. The vast bulk of any iceberg lies hidden beneath the surface and you are fearful that collision with a submerged ridge could rip the hull wide open. Guided by the man<ch.apos/>s shouted directions, and your own Magnakai skills, you steer the ship cautiously into a passage which is overshadowed on either side by two monstrous mountains of ice.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect255">If it is 6<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect97">If it is 9 or higher, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you step into the light, a wave of acute pain washes through your body as the curtain of shimmering radiance swallows you up. You writhe in agony as gravity releases its hold on your body, and you feel yourself begin to rise: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are on the threshold of unconsciousness when suddenly the light fades and you find yourself kneeling on a floor of black crystal, staring at the reflection of your pain-wracked face in its highly-polished surface. Wearily you raise your aching head and see, to your horror, a trio of undead creatures scurrying towards you from an open archway. They have barbed tridents clasped in their corpse-green hands, held raised in readiness to pin you to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-125276-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125276-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you cannot, or if you choose not to use either of the above, then <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast the <!--ERRTAG-RE-125862-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Strength</spell> upon<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125862--> yourself and, within seconds, your body surges with <!--ERRTAG-RE-125957-->newfound<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125957--> energy. You increase your pace until you are running at three times your previous speed. Within a matter of seconds you close upon Tagazin, your weapon drawn in preparation to strike at him as you pass by, but the <!--ERRTAG-RE-126227-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126227--> sees you gaining on him and he stops to block your path. He is weaker than before, but he has lost none of his devilish cunning.</p>
- <p>As you come to within striking distance, suddenly he leaps at your chest and brings you crashing to the loamy ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin (injured)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Conduct this combat for two rounds only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If Tagazin is killed outright during either of these rounds, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If not, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you reach out your hand towards the silvery rod, you suddenly hesitate your Kai <!--ERRTAG-RE-127225-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-127225--> is warning you of imminent danger.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurl yourself to the floor to avoid the onrushing bolt of energy, but your reactions are too slow. It catches you in the back and an explosion of white-hot fire obliterates your senses. In this terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to the power of the Deathstaff. Your life and your quest end here in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-128699-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-128699--> of Ixia.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you hurry away from the cave mouth, you look back over your shoulder to see the Ixian Mhagani illuminated momentarily by a flash of lightning. It fills the entrance to the cave, and it is howling with glee at having successfully defended its evil-smelling lair.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small12" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small12" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Denied shelter in the cave, you return to the bottom of the pass and seek cover among the circle of rocks which lie embedded in the ice on the southern face. When you are within a few dozen yards of the circle, you hear a deafening <!--ERRTAG-RE-128759--><onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia><!--/ERRTAG-RE-128759--> which sets your pulse racing. With that split-second warning, a huge expanse of rock and ice breaks away from the slopes above and swiftly transforms itself into a thundering avalanche. Wide-eyed with horror, you watch as a million tons of ice, snow, and shale comes rumbling down the mountainside towards you.</p>
- <p>Galvanized into action, you turn and run from this deadly white wall of destruction. It is almost upon you when you see a low shelf of rock near the base of the pass, and desperately you dive for cover beneath it.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Nexus, you may add another 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total score is now 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If it is 6<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If it is 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon tosses the box back on to the cluttered shelf and continues with his briefing. Having satisfied himself that you have adequate protection, he turns his attention to your weapons.</p>
- <p><quote>It concerns me greatly that so little is known of Xaagon<ch.emdash/>the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s city. There is no way of knowing what unholy breed of creature awaits you there. It seems that you can be confident of only one thing, Lone Wolf: whoever or whatever inhabits that dreadful place will surely be hostile to your presence. If you are to defeat the Deathlord of Ixia and his <!--ERRTAG-RE-130610-->minions, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-130610--> will need a weapon of exceptional power<ch.emdash/>a weapon capable of destroying that which is already dead.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect220">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap among the mass of advancing undead with renewed vigour, chopping and hewing at their decaying bodies until barely a handful remain to confront you. Grudgingly they yield ground. You snarl at them, defiantly cursing the power which makes them live beyond the grave, and they pull back a few yards more as if to catch their breath before launching their next assault.</p>
- <p>You glance over your shoulder to see how the Lencian crew are faring but your eye is distracted by something glinting brightly in the dull light. It is a key, hanging from a chain strung around the neck of a slain undead warrior. You stoop to snatch up this key and, as your hand closes around its jade-green stem, you sense that it has magical properties. (If you wish to keep this Onyx Key, record it as a Special Item which you keep in the pocket of your tunic.)</p>
- <p>Moments later the undead renew their attack, clambering awkwardly over the heaped bodies of those you have destroyed, their eyes burning with cold fire. You retreat from this relentless enemy and evade them by descending a stair which leads down into the ship<ch.apos/>s hold. Above, you can hear the frenzied shouts of the Lencian crewmen as they are engaged by the undead Drakkarim in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Then you hear something else<ch.emdash/>the clatter of steel-shod boots on the steps, alerting you to the fact that your foes have not given up the chase. As they begin to descend, you quickly scan the gloomy hold for a place to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a jolt that leaves you gasping for breath, you hit the gluey surface of a stinking subterranean bog and sink in up to your neck. In the eerie half-light you can see the chaos horde above you, clustered around the edge of the square opening through which you fell. They are like excited spectators at a pit fight waiting for combat to begin.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you sense movement in the slime<ch.emdash/>something is brushing past your left thigh. You struggle to move but, in doing so, you cause your body to sink deeper into the mire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you possess Telegnosis, and have reached the rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-133768-->Sun Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133768-->, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you possess Animal Mastery, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you cannot, or choose not to use any of the above Disciplines, <link-text>turn instead to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures utter a chilling sound that resembles mocking laughter. Then, from pockets inside their tattered black robes, they draw silvery rods which they level menacingly at your head. Quickly you dive for cover as a trio of crackling bolts come arcing through the snowy air towards your face.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If your total score is now 3 or lower, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If it is 4<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the <!--ERRTAG-RE-135239-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Sense Evil</spell> you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135239--> focus on the encroaching mist and detect a strange presence. You cannot discern exactly what is moving out there, but you are certain of one thing: it is evil and it is drawing ever closer to Fort Azgad.</p>
- <p>You warn Captain Lanza and at first he does not believe you. He chuckles, saying that it is not uncommon for new arrivals to imagine they have seen all manner of spectres in the sea mists which swirl around the fort. But then a loud, discordant bell rings out from above, and Lanza<ch.apos/>s face is transfixed with shock.</p>
- <p><quote>By the <!--ERRTAG-RE-135979-->Gods<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135979-->!</quote> <!--ERRTAG-RE-136066-->he splutters. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136066--> the alarm bell<ch.emdash/>we<ch.apos/>re under attack!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry across the chamber, zigzagging to dodge pillars, chunks of stone, and the many bodies of Ixiataaga<ch.apos/>s former undead slave-warriors which are raining down from the upper levels of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-137114-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137114-->. Aided by your <!--ERRTAG-RE-136622-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136622-->, eventually you reach the lowest level of the spire where the entrance hall and grand arch open out into the city. You are racing through a torrent of crystal dust towards the grand arch, the main exit, when a massive shockwave runs through the entire building. You are within seconds of escaping when, to your horror, you see the walls buckle and the grand arch begin to collapse.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 10 or less, deduct 1 from the number you have picked. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 20 or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">If your total is now 3 or lower, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect193">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the broken bodies of the Drakkarim guards and rush to the door. To your relief you discover it to be unlocked, and when you push upon the surface of this great grey slab of metal, it creaks open to reveal your weapons and equipment stacked haphazardly upon a stone table in the middle of a small chamber.</p>
- <p>Carefully you check your belongings and discover that they are mostly intact. However, all of your Gold Crowns, plus two items from your Backpack are missing. Erase all of the Gold Crowns from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, and cross off the first two items recorded on your list of <!--ERRTAG-RE-138321-->Backpack Items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-138321-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you wish to stay and search this chamber further, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you choose to leave the chamber, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect64-1-foot" idref="sect64-1">
- <p>The wording of this section ignores the fact that you may arrive here without passing through the curtain of light.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trio of ghastly creatures press home their attack with fearful speed and purpose. You look around for some means of evading them, but there appears to be only one way: the shimmering curtain of light by which you arrived here.<footref id="sect64-1" idref="sect64-1-foot"/> The painful memory of your passage through it makes you abandon this idea at once.</p>
- <choice idref="sect238">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you do not possess this Special Item, or choose not to use it, <link-text>turn instead to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attempt at opening the lock using only your Magnakai skill of Nexus proves to be a fatal mistake. Inadvertently, you activate a powerful necromantic spell of protection placed upon the lock by Deathlord Ixiataaga himself. You see a flash of white light as, in an instant, a surge of radiant energy comes shooting from the hole to hit you squarely in the face. Pain engulfs your mind, followed by an explosion of white-hot fire which obliterates your senses. Then, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to one of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s spells. Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw out your arms in a desperate attempt to arrest your fall, but it does you no good. You hit the sea face-first and slam your head and left shoulder against a ridge of solid ice that lies submerged just a few inches below the slushy surface: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The frigid water is shockingly cold but you are oblivious to its numbing chill. Your Magnakai skill of Nexus, and the concussion which you have sustained due to the fall, account for that. Stunned and helpless, it is only the speedy action of the crew which saves you from being crushed between the hull of the ship and the harsh, unyielding ice. With a noose of oiled rope, a couple of crewmen swiftly retrieve you from the sea and haul you back on to the deck. Dazed but undaunted, you free yourself from the rope and scramble back to the prow.</p>
- <p><quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-141180-->Hard aport!<!--/ERRTAG-RE-141180--></quote> you yell, waving frantically to the helmsman. He responds immediately, and within a few minutes the ship is free of the ice-bank and safe in deep water.</p>
- <p>Some of the crew, clearly terrified by the collision and the subsequent sight of you falling overboard, are cowering along the ship<ch.apos/>s rail like frightened puppies. They stare up at the encroaching walls of ice, their eyes full of fear as they pray feverishly to the Goddess Ishir to save their souls. Then, almost without any warning, the snowy wind abates and the ship emerges from the iceberg fjord into the open waters of the Tozaz Sea. As one, the crew give a hearty cheer, relieved that their ordeal has at last come to an end. One man pulls the cork from a bottle of black rum which he has been keeping for a special occasion. He takes a mighty swig, then hands the frosted bottle to you. Just as you are about to take a swallow, unexpectedly you hear the helmsman<ch.apos/>s voice echoing along the deck: <quote>Ship ahoy!</quote></p>
- <p>Fear returns to tie a knot in your stomach as you turn and focus your eagle eyes upon the distant vessel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect67-1-foot" idref="sect67-1">
- <p>Unless you have Grand Weaponmastery and are a Sun Knight or higher, you may not use a two-handed weapon (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, or Spear) for this combat.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Trusting solely to your natural climbing ability, you use what little purchase you can find in the wall of the pit to assist your difficult climb back to the top. The snickering horde of chaos-creatures watch your ascent with eager anticipation. When you are within a few feet of the top, you unsheathe your weapon and get ready to fight your way out of the shaft one-handed.<footref id="sect67-1" idref="sect67-1-foot"/></p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill4" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill4" class="pdf"/>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-143354-->Chaos-horde<!--/ERRTAG-RE-143354--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 for the duration of this combat, due to your disadvantageous position.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike a killing blow deep into the Gybia<ch.apos/>s frightful maw, it gives vent to a deafening cry. For a few moments it thrashes wildly, then, amidst a cloud of its vile green blood, it sinks slowly to the bottom of the lake.</p>
- <p>Aching mentally and physically from the fatigue of your underwater combat, you swim towards the shallows and stagger out of the icy water. Some boulders, which lie embedded along the shore, offer you a hiding place while you recover your strength. As your vitality returns, you find to your dismay that during your fight with the Gybia you lost all but three items from your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Erase <!--ERRTAG-RE-144645-->all of your Backpack Items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-144645--> with the exception of those which you have recorded in spaces 4, 5, and 6 on your Backpack Items list.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">To continue, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect69-1-foot" idref="sect69-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect139">turn immediately to 139</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the hallway you arrive at a flight of metal stairs which ascend to a heavy, bronze-banded door. This sealed door appears to be a recent addition to the vessel; it is secured by a curious combination lock which you recognize to be Drakkarim in design.</p>
- <p>The lock comprises three raised blocks, each of which is divided into four equal squares. In each square, except one, there is a number. You have encountered this type of lock before and are aware that by tapping the empty square a correct number of times, you will cause the lock to disengage and the door to open.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small13" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small13" class="pdf"/>
- <choice>Consider the <!--ERRTAG-RE-149955-->grid<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149955--> of numbers. When you think you have determined the missing number, turn to the entry that is the same number as your answer.<footref id="sect69-1" idref="sect69-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect139">If your answer is incorrect, or if you cannot solve this lock puzzle, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you deal the Ziog the <foreign>coup de gr<ch.acirc/>ce</foreign> it collapses to the deck and crumbles like ancient parchment. An inhuman cry arises from the skeleton horde that is grouped on the quay. They come charging down the gangplank towards you, as if hungry for vengeance. You strike the plank a mighty blow, splitting the timber cleanly in two. Both sections collapse, dumping the onrushing skeletons unceremoniously into the harbour<ch.apos/>s freezing water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you now wish to examine the Ziog<ch.apos/>s remains, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you do not wish to approach the Ziog<ch.apos/>s body, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you peer into the tiny opening at the base of the arch and realize that what you are looking into is a keyhole.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If you possess Grand Nexus, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive aside from the onrushing <!--ERRTAG-RE-147920-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147920--> but your reactions are too slow to avoid being hit. He catches you with the tip of his spiked helm and you feel an agonizing pain shoot through your body. Then an explosion of white-hot fire obliterates your senses and, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to a helm of power, forged and fashioned by the Dark God Naar himself. Sadly your life and your quest end here on the Plane of Darkness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You advance cautiously along the ice-slick decking towards the high curving prow of this alien vessel. Strange and intricate carvings decorate every inch of its coal-black timbers, and runic symbols embellish the metal plates which sheathe the hull forward of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-149236-->mainmast<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149236-->. Calling upon your Kai senses, you determine that this vessel was not constructed by the unhuman creatures who crewed it, but that it is an ancient ship, built and crafted by a race of mariners who have long since disappeared into the mists of time. Closer examination of the timbers reveals it to be more than fifteen thousand years old.</p>
- <p>An open hatch at the bow leads down into a gloomy hold where you discover a tangle of rotten rags and rusty weapons. Among this debris you find a Stone Bowl, a Crystal Tiara, and a Coil of Oiled Rope. (If you wish to keep any of these Backpack Items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.)</p>
- <p>You are about to venture deeper into the hold when suddenly you hear Prarg<ch.apos/>s voice<ch.emdash/>he is calling for you to come to the stern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect271"><link-text>Turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and carefully work its tip under the lip of the lockplate in an attempt to prise it open. It is a difficult and delicate procedure, made all the more unnerving by the sound of marching footsteps in the dark distance behind you: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>After several fretful minutes you succeed in lifting off the covering plate, but doing so does not release the lock: the door is still firmly shut. In order to open it you must manually disengage the locking mechanism.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-150483-->Bulkhead Door<!--/ERRTAG-RE-150483--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Conduct a combat in the usual manner. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself result from fatigue at having to pick the lock with your bare hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">When you have reduced the door<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total to zero, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon and leap forward to strike a pre-emptive blow at the advancing <!--ERRTAG-RA-151246-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RA-151246-->. The force of your strike would have decapitated any normal creature made of flesh and blood, but Tagazin is no such creature. A splash of bluish-white sparks explode at the point of impact and, to your horror, your weapon disintegrates to dust in your hand (<!--ERRTAG-RE-151571-->delete this Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RE-151571--> from your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>).</p>
- <p>Snickering evilly, the <!--ERRTAG-RA-151246-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RA-151246--> springs forward to rake you with his razor-sharp claws.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now, unless you possess the Discipline of Deliverance, double the number you have chosen (in this instance, 0 = 10). The resultant total equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by you in this deadly attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you survive Tagazin<ch.apos/>s initial attack, make the appropriate changes to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score and <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you extricate yourself from the fighting and take cover in the doorway of a nearby hut. The heavy wooden door is hanging off its hinges, and you can tell from the number of sacks, barrels and boxes that are stacked inside that this hut is a food store. Through a window on the far side of the hut, you see the Lencian ice-boat. A score of undead have clambered aboard the vessel and it is clear by their actions that they intend to destroy and sink it.</p>
- <p>Determined to put a stop to their <!--ERRTAG-RE-152987-->plan, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-152987--> race into the hut, squeeze yourself through its solitary window, and then run headlong towards the stricken ship. You are halfway along the gangplank when you find yourself confronted by a wedge of skeletal warriors, each armed with a crude axe or sword. You leap into their midst, striking them down with blurring speed and deadly accuracy. But, as the last one falls, its corpse-like body almost severed at the waist, you hear a noise behind you which makes you spin around in fearful expectation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect77-1-foot" idref="sect77-1">
- <p>There is no mention of what type of Weapon the Power Spike is. If you choose to consider it one of the close combat Weapons used by the Kai (i.e. Spear, Dagger, Mace, Short Sword, Warhammer, Quarterstaff, Broadsword, Axe, and Sword), you may add all appropriate bonuses to your Combat Skill. If you decide that the Power Spike is not any of those Weapons, you may still decide that your Weaponmastery bonuses, if any, apply since Grandmasters are proficient with <quote>all close combat and missile weapons</quote> due to their knowledge of Magnakai Weaponmastery. (<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the Power Spike and a halo of silvery flame engulfs the tip, flaring with such brilliance that Deathlord Ixiataaga is momentarily blinded by its intensity. He shrieks, and raises the Deathstaff defensively to ward off your first blow. As the tip of the Power Spike bites deep into the haft of Ixiataaga<ch.apos/>s fell weapon, a hissing mass of crimson and white sparks explode into the air. These fiery motes are immediately sucked into the vortex of the Shadow Gate, which has now begun to whirl with alarming intensity.</p>
- <p>The Deathlord reels from the force of the impact, but he recovers swiftly and slashes with the sharp tip of the Deathstaff at your face. You duck the blow, but you sense that this is only the opening exchange in what will surely be a titanic fight to the finish.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill5" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill5" class="pdf"/>
- <combat><enemy>Deathlord Ixiataaga (with Deathstaff<ch.emdash/>uncharged)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">60</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.<footref id="sect77-1" idref="sect77-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Standing on the quayside, close to the gangplank, is a ghastly creature which exudes the cloying stench of death and decay. It towers over you by more than an arm<ch.apos/>s length, and its long spindly limbs are covered with grey-white fur. From its skull-face bulge three milky-white eyes, set above a lipless maw edged with dozens of barbed fangs. In its claw-like hand it clutches what appears to be a stalactite. It raises this icy rod and a bolt of cold, orange fire leaps from its tip and comes crackling towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you land your final blow and <!--ERRTAG-RE-156436-->dispatch<!--/ERRTAG-RE-156436--> the last of these mouldering foes, you make to leave by the stairs. But you are halted in your tracks when your <!--ERRTAG-RE-156560-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-156560--> warns that more undead are about to descend into the hold at any moment. Cursing your luck, you turn and run towards the stern section where you hide behind the ship<ch.apos/>s rudder. More undead enter the hold, yet they ignore the broken bodies of those you have just fought and make only a cursory search. As you watch them climbing the stairs you breathe a silent sigh of relief.</p>
- <p>Soon the ship becomes deathly quiet and your mind is filled with concern for the Lencian crewmen<ch.emdash/>your Kai senses detect there are no living beings close by.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to investigate what is happening up on deck, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you choose to stay hidden here in the hold, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Squatting upon a plinth of stone arising from out of the floor is a huge, sabre-toothed, jackal-like creature with <!--ERRTAG-RE-157739-->cream-coloured<!--/ERRTAG-RE-157739--> skin. Ice sheens on its muscular body and wisps of black smoke curl from its snuffling snout.</p>
- <p><quote>Prepare for death, lowly mortal,</quote> growls this creature, as it steps from the risen plinth. <quote>I, Tagazin, am the deliverer of your destruction!</quote></p>
- <p>The unexpected sound of its voice sends a shiver of dread coursing down your spine. Your Kai instincts tell you that this supernatural creature is slave to Ixiataaga<ch.emdash/>he is the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s loyal companion. Venom drips from his bared fangs and murder glows darkly from the depths of his nightmarish eyes as slowly he stalks towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your knowledge of Old Kingdom magic, you form your lips into an O-shape in readiness to utter a power word. The instant the spell-thoughts coalesce in your mind, you project the word at the door<ch.apos/>s triple combination lockplate.</p>
- <p>The concentrated force of the word at such short range twists and buckles the plate, but it does not release the lock: the door is still firmly shut. In order to open it you must prise away the twisted lockplate and manually disengage the locking mechanism.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-159182-->Bulkhead Door<!--/ERRTAG-RE-159182--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Conduct a combat in the usual manner. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself result from fatigue at having to pull apart the damaged lock with your bare hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327">When you have reduced the door<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> total to zero, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before the sundered remains of your enemies can merge and reform, you kick them into the pit where they are consumed by the creature which lurks at the bottom of its slime-filled base. Then, without looking back, you make a swift escape up to the roof and hurry away along the mossy ridge.</p>
- <p>Minutes later, you come to a thicket of mist-enshrouded trees. As you pass through this eerie wood, you detect the presence of Tagazin once more. Fresh tracks indicate his direction and determinedly you set off, finding it an easy task to follow his clawed footprints in the loamy soil. They lead you through a tangle of saw-toothed briar and up a gently sloping rise. As you crest the top of the rise, you look upon an awe-inspiring sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>King Sarnac dismisses his guardsmen before ushering you, Banedon, Lord Ardan and Captain Prarg, into an adjoining antechamber. An oaken table commands the centre of this opulent room, upon which is spread a detailed map of north-western Magnamund.</p>
- <p><quote>In response to Lord Ardan<ch.apos/>s request, I have made provision for your journey to Ixia, Grand Master,</quote> says the King, as the five of you gather around the map table. <quote>As we speak, a man-o<ch.apos/>-war is standing by in Vadera harbour, awaiting my order to set sail. Captain Prarg will accompany you during the first part of your sea voyage to our outpost, which is here on Azgad Island.</quote> King Sarnac points to the map, indicating a remote island near to the Gulf of Konkor.</p>
- <p><quote>The garrison on Azgad Island is commanded by Captain Lanza. Word has been sent of your coming, and Lanza has a crew and an ice-boat ready to place at your disposal. They will transport you across the stormy Tozaz Sea and land you on the southern coast of Ixia. From there you must make your way on foot to the city of Xaagon, where you will find the Deathlord and his accursed weapon<ch.emdash/>the Deathstaff.</quote></p>
- <p>You study the map and, with growing dismay, you appreciate the difficult voyage which lies ahead. <quote>Very well, sire,</quote> you reply. <quote>I understand how I am to <em>reach</em> Ixia in order to find and defeat the Deathlord, but can you tell me how I am to <em>return</em> once my mission has been accomplished?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect248"><link-text>Turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Disappointedly you turn away from the lockplate and descend the steps to the entrance hall below. You are still resolved to find and defeat the Deathlord, but in order to do so you must get to the upper levels of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-163440-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-163440-->. Faced with no alternative, you walk forwards and enter the shimmering archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Deftly you sidestep the molten missile and strike a scything blow which removes the creature<ch.apos/>s skeletal head. From its open throat comes a chilling shriek as its flailing body crashes backwards into the midst of the other undead Drakkarim. Roughly they trample it underfoot in their frenzy to get at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you wish to stand firm and fight these undead foes, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you choose to evade them, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your <!--ERRTAG-RE-163827-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-163827-->, you cause the glass dome to rise a few inches from the plinth. Quickly you snatch up the key, taking care not to touch either the plinth or the cover hovering above it, then you will the glass dome to descend slowly to its original position. (Record the Onyx Key on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, which you carry in the pocket of your tunic.)</p>
- <p>Having obtained the key, you now try it in the door and find that it fits perfectly. You give it a gentle twist, confident that it will unlock this door and allow you entry to whatever lies beyond.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If the number you have picked is 0 or 1, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If it is 2<ch.endash/><!--ERRTAG-RE-168519-->9<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168519-->, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the distance you fall, you manage to hit the floor with cat-like grace and roll over to lessen the impact. The damage you sustain in the process is minimal: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">To continue, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Among the dusty, foul-smelling remains of the Ziog you find a small green gemstone on a platinum chain. If you wish to keep this Green Gem, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you keep in your pocket.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">To continue, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon just in time to fend off the creature<ch.apos/>s initial attack. A flash of lightning briefly illuminates the cave and, for the first time, you see the face of this mysterious beast: the sight is truly chilling to behold. Its mouth is a mass of twisted fangs and from its huge, bear-like body there writhes a score of slimy tentacles, each tipped with a venomous claw. Its reptilian head is domed and <!--ERRTAG-RE-166240-->from its centre<!--/ERRTAG-RE-166240--> there protrudes a twisted horn, longer than a broadsword.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill6" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill6" class="pdf"/>
- <p>The creature retreats a few paces and howls with anger as it prepares to make its second attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ixian Mhagani</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect56">You may evade the combat with this undead creature at any time after the third <!--ERRTAG-RE-167148-->round by<!--/ERRTAG-RE-167148--> <link-text>turning to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin around to see a circular section of the floor disappearing. At the centre of this gaping hole there arises a plinth on which stands the awesome figure of Deathlord Ixiataaga. Jets of flame encircle his robed form, shooting up from the moat which now separates the plinth from the floor of the chamber.</p>
- <p>The cloying stench of decay is overwhelming. As you reel backwards, you see the Deathlord <!--ERRTAG-RE-167909-->raising the Deathstaff<!--/ERRTAG-RE-167909--> that hums with the terrible power held precariously within its haft. A ghastly laugh issues from his goat-skull face as he levels the evil weapon and directs its tip towards your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you possess the Power Spike, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you possess neither of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-swift reactions save you from certain death. The bolts crackle overhead, passing close enough to singe your tunic, before they explode harmlessly in the snow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing upon your knowledge of Old Kingdom magic, you whisper the words of the spell <spell>Invisible Fist</spell> and extend your right arm towards the approaching beast. You feel a surge of energy leap from your hand and dart towards its torso, connecting with powerful effect. The ghastly creature shrieks in alarm as it is sent tumbling backwards along the gangplank to crash into a group of skeletal warriors massing on the quayside.</p>
- <p>Before the creature can recover, you leap to your feet and deal the gangplank a mighty blow, splitting it cleanly in two. Both sections collapse and splash into the harbour<ch.apos/>s freezing water. The creature and its skeletal minions can no longer get aboard the ice-boat but the danger has not diminished. The loathsome creature regains its feet, then it turns its icy rod around and points the blunt end at your head. There is a brilliant flash of light and a guttering ball of flame comes speeding from the base of the rod towards your face. Your reflexes save you<ch.emdash/>you dive for cover behind a tool chest and the fireball whistles over your head to explode into the decking. Howling with anger, the creature launches a second fireball, but this one is not aimed at you<ch.emdash/>it is targeted at the ice-boat<ch.apos/>s waterline. You feel the deck shudder and see tongues of fire leaping up all around. They spread with unnatural speed and within seconds you are engulfed by roaring flames.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to escape from this burning ice-boat by jumping into the harbour, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to attempt to reach the quayside by swinging from the rigging, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive and roll across the floor to avoid the onrushing bolt of energy. The massive flame-ball passes over your back and explodes at the far end wall of the chamber with devastating effect. It tears open a great hole in the steel-hard crystal wall, more than ten feet in diameter, and it fills the air with razor-sharp shards. Fortunately, due to your swift reflexes, you suffer only minor injuries: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>As you spring to your feet, you suddenly see an opportunity to grab the initiative and carry the attack to the Deathlord.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108"><link-text>Turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The narrow passageway leads you to a chamber carved from glittering blue ice. Steps have been chiselled into its translucent north wall, a slippery staircase which ascends to a landing positioned high above the ice-cavern. As you climb the steps, the sub-zero temperature plummets even further, making you shiver involuntarily despite the combined protection of your Platinum Amulet and your Magnakai skills.</p>
- <p>After a tiring climb you reach the landing to be greeted by the sight of an unguarded cave mouth. Through this opening you see a bleak and desolate wasteland of rock and ice. A blizzard is raging, whipped up by a fierce electrical storm that blazes above a distant mountain range. The jagged grey peaks are illuminated by the flashes of the storm<ch.apos/>s ghostly, blue-white fire.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small3" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small3" class="pdf"/>
- <p>After checking your equipment, you reluctantly leave the cave mouth and set off into the raging blizzard in search of the city of Xaagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The firmness of the mossy ridge makes the going easier as, reluctantly, you trek deeper into the mire. Infrequently you are assailed by small, slimy-skinned horrors which live beneath the mud of this rotting land. They rise up from their evil-smelling lairs and attempt to bite your legs and feet as you pass. All their attempts prove costly and futile; your speedy reactions and your Kai weapon skill makes sure of this.</p>
- <p>After an hour or so, you glimpse something through the tangle of trees ahead which makes you stop and stare. At first sight it looks like a huge slab of stone lying on the surface of the swamp, but when you magnify your vision, you see that it is the flat roof of a stone building which is being swallowed very slowly by the mire. You sense that you are gaining on Tagazin and, with weapon drawn, you approach the sinking stone roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect96-1-foot" idref="sect96-1">
- <p>Kajarda are undead. (See Section <a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect52">52</a>, or <a idref="sect265">265</a>.)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon up a ball of psychic energy and project it at the advancing creatures, but at once you sense that your powers are weaker than normal due to the lingering effects of having passed through the shimmering curtain of light. Your mind-missile engulfs them, causing them to falter and fall back, but the effect is short-lived they quickly recover and press home their attack.</p>
- <p>In your weakened state, your use of Kai-surge costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You cannot evade this combat.<footref id="sect96-1" idref="sect96-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Kajarda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you win this combat in six rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you win the fight in seven rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer the ship slowly along a string of narrow fjords which cut an uncertain route through this treacherous field of icebergs. Your hands, slick with nervous sweat, grip the wheel tightly and inch it back and forth in response to the pilot<ch.apos/>s frantic signals. It is a gruelling ordeal which takes its toll on all aboard. Every few minutes your vision is obscured by gusts of powdery snow which swirl across the deck, blown down from the tops of the surrounding ice cliffs. During these fierce blasts you often lose sight of the pilot and are forced to rely solely upon your Kai instincts to see you through.</p>
- <p>The wind howls incessantly, accompanied by the tortured screech of the hull as it skims and grazes banks of submerged ice. The sounds send shivers of dread coursing down your spine. The crew are also clearly terrified by the noises; they cower beside the ship<ch.apos/>s rail and stare up at the encroaching walls of ice, mouthing prayers, their eyes haunted with fear.</p>
- <p>Then, almost without any warning, the snow-laden wind abates and the ship emerges from the iceberg field into the open waters of the Tozaz Sea. The crew give a hearty cheer, relieved that their icy ordeal has at last come to an end. One man pulls the cork from a bottle of black rum which he has been keeping for a special occasion. He takes a mighty swig, then passes it to a comrade. Just as the second man is raising the bottle to his lips, you hear unexpectedly the pilot<ch.apos/>s voice echoing along the deck: <quote>Ship ahoy!</quote></p>
- <p>Fear returns to tie a knot in your stomach as you turn and focus your eagle eyes upon the distant vessel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spin on your heel and sprint towards the arched opening by which you entered this chamber, but the insectoids anticipate your action and they move with frightening speed to block your escape. Snickering evilly, they fall upon you from the sides and rear, using their barbed limbs to drag you to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you possess a Green Gem, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you reach the cover of the ice-shelf, you are caught up in the avalanche and swept away to the bottom of the pass. Buried and crushed beneath the irresistible mass of ice and rock, your death is mercifully swift.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the mountains of Ixia.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect100-1-foot" idref="sect100-1">
- <p>This is the correct answer to the intricate lockplate in the center of the green crystal door in <a idref="sect322">Section 322</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you project the correct number at the lockplate, the entire door begins to shimmer and lose its solidity.<footref id="sect100-1" idref="sect100-1-foot"/> It becomes transparent and then it fades completely, as if it has evaporated into thin air. With a smile of satisfaction on your lips at having solved the riddle of the door, you step through the now-open portal and climb a set of stairs which await you beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You show Banedon your <!--ERRTAG-RE-178944-->Korlinium Scabbard<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178944--> and tell him how you came by it. The seemingly plain belt and scabbard were given to you several years ago by Lord Rimoah, for a similar purpose<ch.emdash/>to conceal the power of the Sommerswerd from the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
- <p><quote>I trust it will serve you just as well in Ixia,</quote> says Banedon, nodding his approval.</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from the speeding missile but it curves in mid-air and impacts against your forehead. Vibrant flashes of white light instantly obliterate your vision and steely fingers of pain tighten themselves about your throat and chest. The force of impact knocks you clean off your feet<ch.emdash/>but you do not feel yourself hitting the floor. Instead, you experience a sensation of falling, as if you are twirling and tumbling endlessly backwards into the heart of a white-hot sun.</p>
- <p>The pressure around your throat and chest is becoming intolerable. You fight against it, struggling desperately to control the mounting pain. Suddenly the agony melts away as your body succumbs to unconsciousness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171"><link-text>Turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you destroy the last undead warrior, the agonizing current which holds you captive suddenly disappears. You stagger away from the door, cradling your blistered hand which trails alarming wisps of blue smoke. Gritting your teeth against the pain, you draw on your Kai healing skills to repair the damage to your fingers and arm.</p>
- <p>When you have recovered sufficiently to go on, you return to the door to find that it is no longer closed. The lock has opened, although there is now no trace of the Onyx Key (erase this from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>You push open the door carefully and enter a chamber composed entirely of polished black crystal, where you see myriad images of yourself trailing away into infinity within the mirror-smooth walls. At first you see only your own reflections, but when you cast your gaze around this eerie chamber you realize that you are not alone. Standing guard at an open archway are a trio of undead creatures, the like of which you have never encountered before. They are armed with barbed tridents which they hold loosely in their corpse-green hands. Suddenly they become aware of your presence and come scurrying forwards, their tridents raised in readiness to pin you to the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-181803-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-181803-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the snow and roll beneath the ice-shelf barely seconds before the leading edge of the avalanche comes roaring down. Tons of rock and ice engulf your shelter, but miraculously it does not collapse under the incredible weight.</p>
- <p>When at last the terrible roaring ceases, you count yourself fortunate <!--ERRTAG-RE-182574-->to still be<!--/ERRTAG-RE-182574--> alive. Buried beneath countless tons of snow, you begin the slow and laborious process of digging yourself out of this icy tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you slay the last of these golden-winged horrors, their torn bodies dissolve into a hot, steamy vapour which is carried away on a foul breeze. The few Lavas that remained with Tagazin, having seen what has befallen their comrades, now abandon the <!--ERRTAG-RA-183228-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RA-183228--> to his fate. Tagazin curses their apparent cowardice as they take to the air and speed away.</p>
- <p>For a moment you stare at the <!--ERRTAG-RA-183228-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RA-183228--> and he returns your gaze; his bitter hatred of you burns brightly in his supernatural eyes. Then he turns and drives himself on towards the Shadow Gate. You give chase, determined to stop him, but you slow your pace when suddenly you see a wide rent appearing in the sky high above. Through a tear in the clouds you see a new host of Lavas come swooping down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The corridor gradually ascends to a high <!--ERRTAG-RE-184244-->gallery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-184244--> which overlooks a chamber two storeys deep. A dozen undead slaves clad in silvery robes are busy attending to a vast machine constructed of quartz-like crystal and black metal. Through holes in its side they probe and manipulate long glassy rods which reach into the machine<ch.apos/>s core. From these holes there radiates a brilliant, ghostly light.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small6" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small6" class="pdf"/>
- <choice idref="sect313">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, and have attained the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-184763-->Sun Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-184763-->, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are making a cursory search of this derelict chamber when suddenly you hear something that makes you reach for your weapon: it is the grating rumble of stone on stone.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small11" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small11" class="pdf"/>
- <p>From out of a secret panel in the wall to your right come six skeletal warriors, each one brandishing a rust-pitted sword. The leading two move to block the staircase, preventing you from making a speedy escape. The remaining four stalk forwards with evil intent, their eye sockets aglow with sorcerous green fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect23"><link-text>Turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You see that the Deathstaff is no longer vibrating with power. You sense that Ixiataaga has expended all of its unholy energy in one massive burst, in the hope of destroying you quickly and utterly. It will be several minutes before the Deathstaff recoups its dark powers<ch.emdash/>you must act swiftly if you are to turn this to your advantage. You raise the Power Spike and shout: <quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote></p>
- <p>Then, with a single mighty leap, you traverse the fiery moat and land on the plinth within an arm<ch.apos/>s length of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s foul form. Your brave and bold action takes Ixiataaga aback, but he quickly recovers and, with <!--ERRTAG-RE-186556-->unnerving<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186556--> speed, he spins around to counter your attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77"><link-text>Turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last skeleton warrior falls to your <!--ERRTAG-RE-186923-->lightning-swift<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186923--> blows, you drag yourself out of the freezing water, across the bony bodies of those you have valiantly defeated, and stumble up the steps to the top of quay. You are met by Captain Lanza and his men, all of whom are clearly amazed that you are still alive.</p>
- <p><quote>We have this enemy beaten,</quote> yells Lanza. <quote>We<ch.apos/>ve slain more than half their number and the rest have their backs to the sea. Will you help us finish the job, Grand Master?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Gladly,</quote> you reply. <quote>For Kai and Ishir, we<ch.apos/>ll send them all to meet their unholy maker!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tug the Sommerswerd from its scabbard and a vibrant golden light erupts along the full length of its divinely-crafted blade. For the first time you see clearly the mysterious creature illuminated by the glow of your sword: the sight is chilling to behold. Its mouth is a mass of twisted fangs and from its huge, bear-like body there writhes a score of slimy tentacles, each tipped with a venomous claw. Its reptilian head is domed and <!--ERRTAG-RE-188251-->from its centre<!--/ERRTAG-RE-188251--> there protrudes a twisted horn, longer than a broadsword.</p>
- <p>As the goodly light of the Sommerswerd washes over its ghastly face, it ceases to advance and gives vent to a loud gibbering howl of fear. You seize the advantage and strike out at its throat with the tip of the sun-sword.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ixian Mhagani</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain during the first two rounds of combat. Also, remember to apply all the appropriate <!--ERRTAG-RE-188994-->bonuses<!--/ERRTAG-RE-188994--> whilst using the Sommerswerd against this undead enemy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">You may evade the combat at any time after the <!--ERRTAG-RE-189144-->third round by<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189144--> <link-text>turning to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You will yourself to rise once more and slowly you return to the edge of the shaft, but your strength is waning and it is now impossible for you <!--ERRTAG-RE-189640-->to simultaneously fight<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189640--> and maintain this spell.</p>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote> you shout, and leap among the monstrous <!--ERRTAG-RE-189825-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189825--> crowding the stairs, lashing out in a wide arc as your feet touch down on the slimy steps. Gleefully, the unnatural horde close in around you for the kill.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-horde</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The metal door is sheathed with ice and there is no handle visible<ch.emdash/>only a hexagonal-shaped keyhole. You utter the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-188989-->Brotherhood Spell<!--/ERRTAG-RE-188989--> <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your index finger at this keyhole. A tingling sensation runs along your arm, culminating in a burst of blue-white energy which arcs from your fingertip to the lock.</p>
- <p>Use of this spell so soon after recovering consciousness costs you 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">Adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly before <link-text>turning to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Abruptly the ghastly laughter ceases, as if the Deathlord has seen something which has shaken his arrogant confidence in his own invincibility. Your senses tell you that it is the Sommerswerd<ch.emdash/>he has recognized that you possess one of the few weapons capable of destroying him. It is a realization that shocks him to the core.</p>
- <p>You move forwards, eager to exploit your advantage, but the Deathlord reacts swiftly. He utters a guttural sound and, in the next instant, a massive bolt of energy shoots from the tip of the Deathstaff and comes speeding towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have <!--ERRTAG-RE-192076-->attained above<!--/ERRTAG-RE-192076--> that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If it is 3<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull the firing lever and send the pantard<ch.apos/>s heavy iron bolt whistling into the midst of the skeletal horde. It rips through their densely-packed ranks, shattering a dozen bodies before disappearing into the ship<ch.apos/>s decking. For a few moments the horde falter, but they recover quickly and continue to disembark on to the quay.</p>
- <p><quote>It<ch.apos/>s no good!</quote> you shout to Prarg. <quote>We<ch.apos/>ll need more than a pantard to turn back this dark tide.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Look there, Grand Master!</quote> retorts Prarg. His face is blanched with shock as he points to the ice-boat. The invading undead have begun to swarm aboard the vessel and it is clear by their actions that they intend to destroy and sink it.</p>
- <p><quote>They must be stopped!</quote> you cry, as you turn and run to the stairs. <quote>Stay here, Prarg, and cover me with the pantard!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the insectoids come to within a body<ch.apos/>s length of where you stand, suddenly their shiny black shells sprout masses of razor-sharp spines. Then, the leading creature emits a high-pitched screech<ch.emdash/>it is the signal to attack. As one, the creatures leap into the air and fall upon you from above. Desperately you twist and dodge to avoid being crushed beneath their heavy, spiky bodies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your prayers, your Kai senses tell you that you have indeed been seen by the creature on the jetty. Then you hear something which sends a shiver of fear racing down your spine; it is the dull, muffled noise of an underwater gate being winched open. You suspect that the undead have released a predator into the lake and, a few moments later, your <!--ERRTAG-RE-194896-->Kai Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194896--> confirms your fear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you wish to turn around and swim back towards the jetty, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you choose to continue swimming towards the shore, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lanza is a stocky, hard-nosed soldier whose leathery, frost-bitten face bears living testimony to the five years he has spent as commander of this bleak, godforsaken outpost. His posting here had been his punishment for a drunken brawl in a Vadera tavern in which he had killed, albeit in self-defence, the brutish elder son of Haglar, the mayor of the city. At his <!--ERRTAG-RE-195749-->court-martial<!--/ERRTAG-RE-195749--> he had been allowed to choose his fate<ch.emdash/>command of the notorious Azgad Island garrison, or death by hanging. Lanza readily admits that there have been times when he has felt that he made the wrong choice.</p>
- <p>Lanza<ch.apos/>s private quarters comprise a sparsely-furnished chamber near the top of the watchtower. You warm yourself in front of an open grate and listen as he and Prarg discuss your onward passage to Ixia aboard the garrison<ch.apos/>s ice-boat. At length, Lanza voices his fears about recent sightings at sea<ch.emdash/>strange craft which sail beneath the waves and ships crewed by the living dead. As you listen to his chilling account, you look out through the chamber<ch.apos/>s slit window at an icy mist which is creeping in from the north. It swirls knee-deep around the watchtower and the harbour wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery and have reached the rank of Sun Lord (or higher), <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you do not possess these Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grim-faced undead conduct a thorough search of the hold, passing many times within inches of where you are hiding, yet they fail to find you. Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-197377-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197377--> of Assimilance keeps you safe from detection. As you wait patiently for them to leave the hold, your thoughts turn to the Lencian crewmen. The sound of fighting on the deck above has long ceased and you are fearful that the crew may have been slain by these merciless enemies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to follow the undead when they leave the hold, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you choose to stay hidden in the hold, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your chosen passage is wide and deep the whole way, enabling you to navigate a course through the ice-field with ease. Within three hours of entering, you emerge on the far side without a scratch and are able to continue your voyage to Fort Azgad without further delays.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge into a chamber composed entirely of polished black crystal, where you see myriad reflections of yourself trailing away into infinity within its mirror-smooth walls. You cast your gaze around this eerie chamber and see that you are not alone. Standing guard at an open archway are a trio of undead creatures, the like of which you have never seen before. They are armed with barbed tridents which they hold loosely in their corpse-green hands.</p>
- <p>Suddenly they become aware of your presence and come scurrying towards you, their tridents raised in readiness to pin you to the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-199244-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199244-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-197731-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197731--> extend your right hand towards the approaching beast. You feel a surge of energy run down your arm and explode into life at the tip of your index finger. There is a flash and a gout of blue-white energy arcs towards the creature<ch.apos/>s chest, connecting with powerful effect.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill7" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill7" class="pdf"/>
- <p>At first the ghastly creature shrieks in alarm and reels backwards, but to your horror it quickly recovers and comes leaping at you from the gangplank. It has absorbed the energy of your spell and it is now even stronger than before.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ziog</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This undead creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stare upwards at the monstrous spire, you sense waves of pure evil radiating from its ice-sheathed surfaces. They seem to wax and wane in time with the crimson light which is pulsing from its tip. So strong are these waves of evil that they physically sicken you, yet you find it hard to look away; you are both fascinated and repulsed by them.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you realize what it is that you are seeing and feeling: it is the evil power of Deathlord Ixiataaga himself. He is present here, somewhere inside this dread spire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect123-1-foot" idref="sect123-1">
- <p>It is unclear whether a 0 picked on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> should count as exactly 0. Since the procedure described here is similar to the procedure for Kai-blast, and you are required to be a Sun Lord who has mastered Kai-surge, it would be reasonable to count 0 as a 1 in the same way as for Kai-blast.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look into the eyes of the approaching <!--ERRTAG-RE-202090-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-202090--> and muster all your strength to summon a pulse of psychic energy. The pulse forms a radiant ball of power which speeds across the chamber and slams into Tagazin<ch.apos/>s mind, making him flinch and falter.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Now double the number you have chosen and make a note of the total in the margin of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.<footref id="sect123-1" idref="sect123-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect45">To continue, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The third wave of undead come staggering across the heaped bodies of their slain confederates. They are led by a skull-faced warrior that clutches a ball of a liquescent, glass-like substance in its mangled hand. You raise your weapon and draw it back in readiness to strike a blow at the creature<ch.apos/>s ghastly face. It reacts to your move by hurling the glassy ball into the air. Moments later, there is a blinding flash and the ball comes <!--ERRTAG-RE-203234-->hurtling towards<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203234--> your forehead like a streak of molten light.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess either Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess <!--ERRTAG-RE-203527--><em>both</em><!--/ERRTAG-RE-203527--> of these Grand Master Disciplines, you may add 3.</p>
- <choice idref="sect102">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect125-1-foot" idref="sect125-1">
- <p>Kajarda are undead. (See Section <a idref="sect6">6</a>, <a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect52">52</a>, <a idref="sect103">103</a>, <a idref="sect120">120</a>, or <a idref="sect265">265</a>.)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and unsheathe your weapon only just in time to defend yourself from their lightning-swift attack.<footref id="sect125-1" idref="sect125-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Kajarda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you win this combat in six rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you win the fight in seven rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the floor with a terrific jolt which leaves you gasping for breath: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you survive this fall, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fearing detection by the undead attendants, you hurry from this high <!--ERRTAG-RE-205201-->gallery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-205201--> by means of a sloping tunnel which descends to an empty hallway. All along the left wall of this narrow passage are glassy portholes that are caked with ice and grime. Vigorously you scrape the encrusted filth from one of these circular windows and peer through it. Your curiosity is rewarded by a stunning sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198"><link-text>Turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare at the spiked helm and a strange sense of purpose forms in your mind. You know that this artefact is wholly Evil, yet you have the curious notion that it could also be put to use in the cause of Good. Your Kai instincts tell you that this helm was forged and fashioned by Naar, the Dark God, and that its power is such that it can destroy most beings, living or dead. It may even be powerful enough to destroy Deathlord Ixiataaga.</p>
- <p>You pick up the helm and, with a swift and violent action, you smash it on to the ground. The crystal spike snaps cleanly from the top of the helm and you <!--ERRTAG-RE-206415-->stow it in your belt<!--/ERRTAG-RE-206415-->. (Record this Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Power Spike, which you carry in your belt. If you already carry the maximum number of Special Items permissible, you must discard another in favour of this one.)</p>
- <p>Resolutely, you turn and walk towards the Shadow Gate. As you leap into its spinning core, you pray that you will arrive back <!--ERRTAG-RE-206849-->on Magnamund<!--/ERRTAG-RE-206849--> with time enough to thwart the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s evil plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You regard the Captain with an appraising eye. He is tall, towering more than a dagger<ch.apos/>s length above the heads of the other court guardsmen. He possesses a proud military bearing, yet his most striking feature is his close-set eyes which sparkle above his hawk-like nose and bushy black moustache.</p>
- <p><quote>This is Captain Prarg, Grand Master,</quote> says King Sarnac. The Captain bows formally before you.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome to Vadera, my lord,</quote> he says. <quote>I am honoured to have been chosen to help your urgent quest.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghoulish creatures shriek with glee as they fall upon you, like starving vultures upon a corpse.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Cabalah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">56</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">54</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These undead creatures are immune to <!--ERRTAG-RE-210163-->Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-210163-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">You may evade this combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the wisps of black smoke are a manifestation of several evil beings, each possessed of a strong psychic presence. Fearing attack, you quickly draw upon your <!--ERRTAG-RE-208843-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-208843--> to construct a defensive wall to protect yourself from psychic assault. It is a wise precaution, but one that could prove less than effective against these powerful entities.</p>
- <p>Moments after your psychic wall is in place, the wisps streak across the chamber and encircle your body. They accelerate to a dizzying speed before launching a massive wave of psychic energy at your mind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. (In this instance, 0 = 10.)</p>
- <p>The number which you have picked is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose as a result of this massive psychic assault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you survive this attack, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurtle through the smoke towards the harbour wall, but unfortunately you have mistimed your leap and you miss the quayside by just a few feet. You glance off the wall and tumble head first into the sea: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The frigid water is shockingly cold, but at least your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus protects you from its numbing chill and you are able to surface quickly. Burning chunks of timber and sailcloth rain down all around as you strike out towards a flight of stone steps that rise out of the sea to the top of the quay. However, upon reaching the steps you are met by a dozen skeletal warriors who are determined to slay you before you can haul yourself out of the icy water.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-210597-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-210597--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">41</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast. Also, because you are still in the icy water, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 5 for the duration of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your underwater swim, your higher Kai rank and mastery enables you to use the <!--ERRTAG-RE-209083-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Breathe Water</spell><!--/ERRTAG-RE-209083-->. This magical spell allows you to absorb oxygen from the icy sea water directly into your bloodstream through the pores of your skin, negating the need to surface repeatedly for air.</p>
- <p>In just a few minutes you reach the distant shoreline and break through the surface alongside a shallow stone causeway. Atop this causeway is a track, a spur of which branches off towards the tunnel entrance. With only your head visible above the lake, you cling to the causeway stones and wait patiently for a nearby patrol to march past.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the tightening confines of this narrow fjord, it proves impossible for you to avoid a collision. With a shuddering crash, the port bow grounds on a submerged ridge of ice and is torn wide open. Within the hour, your ship sinks, leaving you stranded alone on the ice-field.</p>
- <p>For three weeks you survive on the ice until, in the middle of one cold and stormy night, with your strength nearing its lowest ebb, you are swept into the sea, never to be seen again.</p>
- <p>You can take some comfort in the fact that your incredible courage brought about the defeat of the evil Deathlord, saving untold millions from an eternity of slavery in his service. So long as there is Good upon Magnamund you will never be forgotten. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for this victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here in the Tozaz Sea.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The ghastly creature shrieks with undisguised glee as it prepares to strike you down. It raises its jagged rod of ice and sparks ignite at the tip; the prelude to another devastating blast of energy which the beast is about to aim at your crouching form. You reach for your own weapon, desperate to defend yourself, but as your hand closes around the hilt you hear the unexpected sound of rushing wind. Suddenly a spear-like missile hits the creature in the back and explodes from its chest. The impact sends the beast cartwheeling past you to slam into the ice-boat<ch.apos/>s mast. You look towards the watchtower and see Prarg at the parapet, standing behind a catapult-like pantard, his clenched fist raised in triumph. You return his salute, thankful that his aim was true.</p>
- <p>The pantard bolt has pinned the creature to the mast but it has not destroyed it. Howling with anger, it twists and writhes to get free. Then, as if drawn by its unhuman cries, a mass of skeletal warriors come charging down the gangplank towards you. Instinctively, you draw your weapon and strike the plank a mighty blow, splitting it cleanly in two. Both sections collapse and the onrushing skeletons tumble helplessly into the icy water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288"><link-text>Turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stand at the base of the left-hand pillar and utter the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-212449-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell><!--/ERRTAG-RE-212449-->. Immediately, you feel yourself rise from the floor and, using your hands to guide you and maintain a grip on the pillar, you inch your way effortlessly towards the narrow gap between it and the ceiling above.</p>
- <p>The ascent is effortless but it is not entirely painless. The energy radiating from the electrical arcing blisters the exposed flesh on the right side of your face: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you have reached the Kai rank of Sun Thane, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect137-1-foot" idref="sect137-1">
- <p>Unless you have Grand Weaponmastery and are a Sun Knight or higher, you may not use a two-handed weapon (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear) for this combat.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lasso the spur of rock on your first attempt and pull yourself out of the cloying mire barely seconds before the unseen creature, which is circling below the surface, moves in to attack your legs. On reaching the spur, you retrieve your rope and set out to climb the wall of this shaft.</p>
- <p>Above, the snickering horde of <!--ERRTAG-RE-216006-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216006--> watch your ascent with eager anticipation. When you are within a few feet of the top, you unsheathe your weapon and get ready to fight your way out of the shaft one-handedly.<footref id="sect137-1" idref="sect137-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-216266-->Chaos-horde<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216266--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 for the duration of this combat, due to your disadvantageous position.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you strike out for the shore with the jaws of the gruesome Gybia snapping at your heels. Fortunately, as you reach the shallows, the creature is forced to abandon its pursuit and let you escape. Coughing and retching violently, you stagger out of the icy water and stumble to the cover of some boulders which lie embedded in the shore. Here, as you slowly recover, you find to your dismay that during your hasty escape from the Gybia, you lost all but two items from your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Erase all of your <!--ERRTAG-RE-217422-->Backpack Items<!--/ERRTAG-RE-217422--> with the exception of those which you have recorded in spaces 4 and 6 on your Backpack Items list.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">To continue, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fearful that you could be discovered here at any moment, you bring your face closer to the door and make a detailed examination of the combination lock. On the surface it appears to be straightforward, but your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus alerts you to the fact that it is protected by sorcery. Failure to tap in the correct number more than once will activate an alarm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you possess neither of these <!--ERRTAG-RE-218512-->Disciplines<!--/ERRTAG-RE-218512-->, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With your briefing now concluded, King Sarnac ushers you all into his court chamber. There you bid him, Lord Ardan, and Guildmaster Banedon farewell, and they in turn wish you good luck and godspeed before Captain Prarg escorts you to the harbour. It is snowing heavily, and few of Vadera<ch.apos/>s inhabitants notice as the two of you are welcomed aboard the <cite>Maycastle</cite>, the square-rigged man-o<ch.apos/>-war which will carry you to Azgad Island.</p>
- <p>You leave Vadera within the hour and begin the long, cold voyage northwards. During the voyage, Captain Prarg tells you about the raids which have destroyed several small Drakkarim settlements along the Gulf of Konkor and the coast of the Shakoz Bight. On the twelfth day of your two-week sea journey, you catch a glimpse of one such settlement, near to the mouth of the River Lenag. All that remains is a wispy pall of smoke which hangs above the burnt-out hovels, darkening an already stormy sky.</p>
- <p>For most of the voyage, a host of seabirds have accompanied the <cite>Maycastle</cite>, attracted by the scraps of food regularly thrown out by the ship<ch.apos/>s galley. But at dawn on the thirteenth day, as the ship enters the Gulf of Konkor, the usual flocks of shrieking gulls are nowhere to be seen. It is as if they have suddenly become aware of impending danger and have turned back, eager to stay out of harm<ch.apos/>s reach. Later in the day, a fierce squall arises from the east which whips the iron-grey waters of the gulf into a maelstrom. The crew fight desperately to control their ship as the storm rages all day and all night, not abating until dawn of the following day. As the wind gradually dies and the sea settles, the lookout is able to resume his post atop the mainmast.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill8" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill8" class="pdf"/>
- <p><quote>Land ahoy!</quote> he cries, and all eyes scan the northern vista. There, perched on the wintry horizon, is a grey strip of barren, frost-covered rock. You magnify your vision and see, on the western side of this island, a few slate buildings clustered around a fortified stone tower.</p>
- <p><quote>That<ch.apos/>s Fort Azgad,</quote> says Captain Prarg, with relief in his voice. <quote>At last we<ch.apos/>ve arrived.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect321"><link-text>Turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect141-1-foot" idref="sect141-1">
- <p>Assuming that this weaponry was created by native Ixians prior to their destruction at the hands of the Deathlord since no other nation has occupied Ixia since that time, it is impossible to reconcile calling them <quote>Old Kingdom armourers</quote> with the timeline presented in <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, <quote>Magnamund Then and Now</quote>. According to that book, the Ixians must have been destroyed long before the Age of the Old Kingdoms.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the first opportunity you sprint away from the wooden crates and descend the staircase to a closed door. It is a sturdy portal, carved from solid rock and banded with strips of bronze. You test it with the toe of your boot and, to your surprise, it swings open with barely a sound.</p>
- <p>Beyond the door lies a rough-hewn chamber lined with racks of ancient crystal spears and swords. Despite the <!--ERRTAG-RE-222108-->millennia<!--/ERRTAG-RE-222108--> which have passed since they were crafted by Old Kingdom armourers,<footref id="sect141-1" idref="sect141-1-foot"/> these weapons still hold a keen edge and gleam like new.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small4" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small4" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Casting your eye around this weapon store there appears to be no other exit save the one by which you entered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you do not possess mastery of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your swift reflexes save you from being impaled upon the tip of the spiked helm. Tagazin goes charging past in a cloud of dust but, as you roll over and spring to your feet, you see that he has already made his turn and is bearing down for a second time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin (with Power Helm)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes of intense concentration your use of your Magnakai Discipline pays off. Successfully you will the lock to disengage, yet the effort required is far greater than you could have anticipated and it leaves you mentally weakened: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The portal begins to shimmer and lose its solidity. At first it becomes transparent and then it fades completely, as if evaporating into thin air. With a smile of satisfaction on your lips at having overcome it, you step through the now-open archway and into an adjoining hall.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="pdf"/>
- <p>This vaulted, oblong-shaped hall is illuminated by flickerings of electrical fire which arc between two <!--ERRTAG-RA-224359-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-224359--> pillars at the far end of the chamber. Beyond the pillars you can make out the shadowy entrance to another chamber; it is the only other exit from this hall. You realize at once that to pass between the pillars could prove to be fatal: the power arcing between them is as great as any lightning storm raging in the skies above Xaagon. Yet there may be a way of avoiding contact with this raw power. You notice that the two <!--ERRTAG-RA-224359-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-224359--> pillars do not go all the way to the ceiling<ch.emdash/>there is a gap at the top, a little over two feet wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to attempt to climb one of the pillars and squeeze through the gap in order to reach the adjoining hall, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you decide to throw caution to the wind and run directly between the pillars, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With trepidation you steer the ship along a string of narrow fjords which cut an uncertain route through this treacherous field of icebergs. Your hands, slick with nervous sweat, grip the wheel tightly and inch it back and forth in response to the pilot<ch.apos/>s frantic signals. It is a gruelling ordeal which soon takes its toll on the nerves of all aboard.</p>
- <p>Every few minutes your vision is obscured by gusts of powdery snow which swirl across the deck, blown down from the tops of the surrounding ice cliffs. One of these fierce blasts temporarily blinds you. As you fight to restore your vision, the incessant howl of the wind is suddenly accompanied by the tortured screech of the ship<ch.apos/>s hull as it collides with a ridge of submerged ice. The impact sends the vessel careering violently to starboard and hurls you painfully against the wheelhouse wall: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">To continue, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite their misshapen form, the moment these macabre horrors catch sight of you, they charge forwards with frightening speed. Gibbering and howling like demons, they hurl themselves upon you and attempt to slay you with fang and claw.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-226631-->Chaos-horde<!--/ERRTAG-RE-226631--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">You may evade this combat after six rounds, by <link-text>turning to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you set foot inside the cave entrance, you hear a noise which makes you freeze in your tracks. A ghastly half-gibbering, half-growling sound issues from the dark recesses of the cave<ch.emdash/>a warning from the creature which dwells here that you are not a welcome visitor. You scan the inky darkness and see the glint of two yellow eyes as they emerge from a fold in the rock wall. Slowly the eyes advance. You use your ability to see in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-227734-->infrared<!--/ERRTAG-RE-227734--> spectrum of light, in order to discern the outline of this shadowy creature, but it is to no avail. You can detect no heat patterns. The reason for this is simple<ch.emdash/>the creature now advancing towards you gives off no heat because, like everything else in this wretched land, it is already dead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you wish to escape from the cave while you can, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you choose to draw your weapon and defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your Kai instincts and the night stars, you set a southerly course for Azgad Island. The Tozaz Sea is unusually calm for most of this lonely voyage, and hazards are few<ch.ellips/> until the dawn of your second day at sea.</p>
- <p>Through the grey winter<ch.apos/>s gloom you see the unwelcome sight of the Tozaz iceberg field stretching across the southern horizon. At first it looks impenetrable, but as you sail closer you identify two breaks in the ice-field that could be the beginnings of passages through to the far side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you wish to steer your craft into the south-easterly passage, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you choose to sail into the south-westerly passage, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door to this cell is sheathed with ice and the only visible means of opening it appears to be a hexagonal-shaped keyhole. You crouch down, so that your face is level with the keyhole, and draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus in an attempt to pick the lock.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained, above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342">If your total is now 4 or lower, <link-text>turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you slay each of the insectoids in turn, their bodies return to their original wispy form. These trails of black smoke swirl harmlessly around the chamber before evaporating into the porous stone which frames the Shadow Gate. You are relieved to see the back of these hideous creatures, but your comfort is all too short-lived; no sooner have they vanished than a new horror appears in the chamber, rising up out of the stone floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you have ever been to the Isle of <!--ERRTAG-RE-230763-->Ghosts in<!--/ERRTAG-RE-230763--> a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few hundred yards beyond the rise, you see Tagazin moving along a track which leads to the top of a small hillock. Here, contained within an arch of ancient stone, you see a whirling vortex: it is unmistakably an open Shadow Gate.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small9" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small9" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Surrounding Tagazin are a host of winged, dragon-like creatures, with horny skins that glimmer like gold in the wan light. By the slow, laborious way in which the jackal-like <!--ERRTAG-RE-231547-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-231547--> is moving his limbs, you sense that he has been injured and greatly weakened by his passage through the void.</p>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you have ever been to the Plane of Darkness before, in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The advancing creature sees that you are preparing to strike the gangplank and quickly it retreats to the quayside. You deal the plank a mighty blow, splitting it cleanly in two, and both sections collapse and splash into the harbour<ch.apos/>s freezing water. But the danger is not over.</p>
- <p>The creature turns its icy rod around and points the blunt end towards your head. There is a brilliant flash of light and a guttering ball of flame comes speeding from the base of the rod towards your face. Your reflexes save you<ch.emdash/>you dive for cover behind a tool chest and the fireball whistles over your head to explode into the decking. Howling with anger, the creature launches a second fireball, but this one is not aimed at you<ch.emdash/>it is targeted at the ice-boat<ch.apos/>s waterline. The deck shudders and flames leap up all around, spreading with unnatural speed. Within seconds you are engulfed by roaring flames.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to escape from this burning ship by jumping into the harbour, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to attempt to reach the quayside by swinging from the rigging, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect152-1-foot" idref="sect152-1">
- <p>It is impossible to reconcile the statement that the native Ixians reigned <quote>in the time of the Old Kingdoms</quote> with the timeline presented in <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, <quote>Magnamund Then and Now</quote>. According to that book, the Ixians must have been destroyed long before the Age of the Old Kingdoms.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last skeletal warrior crumbles beneath your repeated blows, you step back and wipe the sweat of battle from your brow. A glance into the secret panel through which they emerged reveals a narrow chamber beyond. Lying on the crystal slab floor you see several items of equipment:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Small Sack</li>
- <li>Stone Bowl</li>
- <li>Spyglass</li>
- <li>Iron Key</li>
- <li>Coil of Oiled Rope</li>
- </ul>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, record them on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Backpack Items.</p>
- <p>You leave the chamber and hurry down the stone staircase to the archway below. The Drakkarim patrol you sighted earlier is now nowhere to be seen, enabling you to leave the barbican and enter Xaagon without further confrontation.</p>
- <p>Warily you trek through the awesome ruins of this age-old city, where once, in the time of the Old Kingdoms, a proud and mighty race reigned supreme.<footref id="sect152-1" idref="sect152-1-foot"/></p>
- <p>You have just passed a derelict mausoleum when you are forced to halt and hide from a passing troop of Ixian warriors. You watch as they march stiffly along an ice-choked avenue towards a plaza that is dominated by a huge frozen fountain. Beyond the fountain<ch.apos/>s solid plume of water you see a broad ramp which ascends to a grand archway at the base of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-235533-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-235533-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you possess Grand Huntmastery and have attained the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-234972-->Sun Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-234972-->, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you climb the stairs and peer over the lip of the hatch; you are just in time to witness a scene which shocks you to the core. You see that the undead Drakkarim warriors have slain all of the Lencian crewmen and have heaped their bodies around the base of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-236097-->mainmast<!--/ERRTAG-RE-236097-->. One of the undead, clad in a filthy grey cloak embroidered with alien symbols, utters a chilling liturgy over the corpses of the slain. You sense something is very wrong. The chill air crackles with power and sparks of evil energy whirl around their bodies. When at last the liturgy ends, you see to your horror the slain Lencians rise up and take their places alongside the Drakkarim undead.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill9" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill9" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Revolted and angered by what you have witnessed, you vow to avenge the souls of the crew and draw your weapon in readiness to attack the host of Drakkarim undead. But before you can act, you feel a shudder run through the deck. The great vessel which has swallowed your ship is lurching to a halt. There is a dull boom, then several portals open in the surrounding walls of the host vessel, spilling beams of white light across the deck of your captive ship. Scores of Drakkarim undead emerge from these portals and descend upon the ship like a host of hungry ghouls. You are forced to abandon your plan for vengeance<ch.emdash/>there are now far too many of the enemy. Yet all is not lost. In the milling confusion, you seize an opportunity to get away from the ship and escape into one of the light-filled portals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rise once more and return to the edge of the shaft, drawing on reserves of strength and determination both to fight and maintain your levitation spell.</p>
- <p><quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote> you shout, as you lash out at the monstrous <!--ERRTAG-RE-237766-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-237766--> crowding the edge of the pit.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Chaos-horde</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">37</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your newly-achieved mastery of Deliverance and feel yourself slip into the trance-like state which is necessary in order to perform a Kai Exorcism. Soundlessly you mouth the words of the evocation and feel your goodly powers, like a warm electrical current, flow out from your fingertips. Within seconds this aura sweeps through the ship and engulfs the evil entity. You sense resistance but it is <!--ERRTAG-RE-238772-->short-lived<!--/ERRTAG-RE-238772-->; the evil succumbs to your exorcism and quickly vanishes.</p>
- <p>You may restore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost during your adventure so far.</p>
- <choice idref="sect345">To continue, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An undead Drakkarim soldier steps forward, takes hold of the shaggy beast<ch.apos/>s harness, and leads the wagon towards a stockpile of metallic containers. Clearly he intends to load these on to the wagon for transportation back to the submarine. Fearing discovery, you leap from the rear of the moving wagon and hide yourself among a stack of empty wooden crates. From here you observe two possible ways by which you could leave this busy <!--ERRTAG-RE-239673-->cavern: by<!--/ERRTAG-RE-239673--> an unguarded staircase in the north wall, or through an open archway in the east wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to leave this cavern by the staircase, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you choose to leave through the open archway, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With relief you sense that you have acted just in time; the creature on the jetty failed to catch sight of you before you dived below the surface.</p>
- <p>In just a few minutes you reach the distant shoreline and break through the surface alongside a shallow stone causeway. Atop this causeway is a track, a spur of which branches off towards the tunnel entrance. With only your head visible above the lake, you cling to the causeway stones and wait patiently for a nearby patrol of undead soldiers to march past.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169"><link-text>Turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You circle around the hall, keeping a watchful eye on the frozen humanoids that line the walls in case your presence here should cause them to animate. Thankfully, your caution proves unnecessary<ch.emdash/>they remain completely immobile.</p>
- <p>As you pass by the shimmering archway, you feel nausea rising from the pit of your stomach and a wave of dizziness makes you falter for a few moments: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. However, your dogged persistence pays off when you discover a partially-concealed panel in the wall. As you step nearer, it slides open to reveal a flight of steps which ascend to an empty chamber. Here you discover a door of opaque green crystal set flush into the north wall. Closer investigation reveals a curious lockplate positioned at its centre.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you wish to examine this lock, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If you choose to ignore the crystal door and return by the stairs to the entrance hall below, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ziog drops to the deck and begins to crumble like ancient parchment. As you are stepping away from its foul-smelling carcass, your eye is caught by the glint of precious metal entangled in the remains of its fur.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to make a closer examination of the Ziog<ch.apos/>s remains, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you choose not to approach the Ziog<ch.apos/>s carcass, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you unsheathe the Sommerswerd, its golden light floods the chamber, countering the heavy aura of evil which permeates its every corner. The goodly presence of your divine sword causes the insectoids to shy away fearfully. You sense that they are repelled by its power which is leeching their strength.</p>
- <p>Gradually, their insect-like forms dissolve back into wispy trails of black smoke which swirl once around the chamber before evaporating into the porous stone framing the Shadow Gate. You are relieved to see the back of these hideous creatures, but your comfort is all too short-lived; no sooner have they vanished than a new horror appears in the chamber, rising up out of the stone floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you have ever been to the Isle of Ghosts in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You descend from the submarine<ch.apos/>s viewing platform and slip unseen into the frigid lake, thankful that the Platinum Amulet you are wearing is powerful enough to protect your body from the ill-effects of such devastatingly cold water. Rather than risk being seen by a patrolling group of undead warriors, you gulp a lungful of air, dive below the surface, and strike out for the distant shoreline.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have reached the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-250149-->Sun Thane<!--/ERRTAG-RE-250149-->, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect309">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect162-1-foot" idref="sect162-1">
- <p>It is impossible to reconcile the statement that Old Kingdom magic is <quote>older<ch.ellips/> than the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s vile necromancy</quote> with the timeline presented in <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, <quote>Magnamund Then and Now</quote> and the statements about the origin of magical power in <quote>The Realms of Northern Magnamund: The Birth of Magnamund</quote> and <quote>The Realms of Southern Magnamund: Man, Magic and the Moonstone</quote> in that same book. According to <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, magic entered Magnamund with the Elder Magi long after Agarash and his minion, the Deathlord.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the subterranean lake and go aboard an ice-boat moored alongside the stone jetty. With the demise of the Deathlord and his necromantic power, you are fearful that these vessels may no longer be serviceable; their sorcerous engines could prove to be as immobile as the warriors who stand like frozen statues all around the shore of the lake. But, fortunately, your fears turn out to be groundless.</p>
- <p>You quickly discover that these ice-boats are propelled by Old Kingdom magic, an arcane art far older and more benign than the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s vile necromancy.<footref id="sect162-1" idref="sect162-1-foot"/> Having satisfied yourself that your chosen vessel is seaworthy, you cast off its hawser and steer it away from the jetty towards the wide cave mouth which opens out into the stormy Tozaz Sea. The elation of victory is still buoying your spirits, yet there is a nagging unease in the back of your mind that not everything is as it should be.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147"><link-text>Turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retreat hurriedly from the onrushing horde and evade them by descending a stair which leads down into the ship<ch.apos/>s hold. <!--ERRTAG-RE-246098-->Above, you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246098--> can hear the frenzied shouts of the Lencian crewmen as they engage the undead Drakkarim in fierce hand-to-hand combat. Suddenly, the body of a Lencian comes tumbling down the stairwell to land in an untidy heap at the bottom, the <!--ERRTAG-RE-246396-->hilt of a rusty sword<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246396--> protruding from his chest. Then the clatter of steel-shod boots on the steps warns you that his killers are about to appear, and quickly you scan the darkness looking for a place to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text><!--ERRTAG-RE-246496-->turn to 26<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246496--></link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun-sword begins to glow and become warm in your hand. The blade points of its own accord towards the spiked helm and, at once, you sense that it is prompting you to destroy the evil artefact. Obediently you obey its silent request. You raise the sun-sword and bring it crashing down on the helm, splitting it asunder. There is a violent splash of hissing sparks and, when the sparks dissipate, you see that no trace of the helm remains; it has been utterly destroyed.</p>
- <p>Purposefully, you turn and walk towards the Shadow Gate. As you leap into its spinning core, you pray that you will arrive back <!--ERRTAG-RE-247617-->on Magnamund<!--/ERRTAG-RE-247617--> in time to thwart the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s evil plan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect165-1-foot" idref="sect165-1">
- <p>It is impossible to reconcile the statement that the native Ixians were a <quote>race of the Old Kingdoms</quote> with the timeline presented in <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, <quote>Magnamund Then and Now</quote>. According to that book, the Ixians must have been destroyed long before the Age of the Old Kingdoms.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Leaning at a slant to make headway into the blizzard, you trek determinedly through deep snow that is heaped in drifts around the breached city wall. As you pass through the gap, you catch brief glimpses of ruined buildings through the sleeting gale. You also become aware of a noise<ch.emdash/>a low hum<ch.emdash/>which is reverberating beneath the howl of the wind. You stop to listen and at once you determine that this strange noise is coming from the <!--ERRTAG-RA-250051-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-250051-->.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill10" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill10" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Wearily you press on through the awesome ruins of this age-old city, where once a proud and mighty <!--ERRTAG-RE-259452-->race of the Old Kingdoms<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259452--> reigned supreme, until you are forced to halt and take cover from a passing troop of skeletal warriors.<footref id="sect165-1" idref="sect165-1-foot"/> You watch them march stiffly along an ice-choked avenue towards a plaza which is dominated by a frozen fountain. Beyond the fountain<ch.apos/>s solid plume of water you see a broad ramp which ascends to a grand archway at the base of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-250051-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-250051-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you possess Grand Huntmastery and have attained the Kai rank of Sun <!--ERRTAG-RE-249397-->Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-249397-->, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon reaches for a small wooden box which lies half-buried on a shelf, amongst a clutter of scrolls and charts. As he does so, he is momentarily distracted by the Platinum Amulet which you wear on a cord around your neck. You notice the suddenly inquisitive look in his eye.</p>
- <p><quote>How did you come by that?</quote> he asks, as he stares fixedly at the amulet.</p>
- <p><quote>It was given to me by Gwynian<ch.emdash/>the Sage of Varetta. I<ch.apos/>m sure its powers kept me safe from the perils of the Maakengorge. Tell <!--ERRTAG-RE-250332-->me, my<!--/ERRTAG-RE-250332--> friend, have you heard of this sage?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Oh yes,</quote> replies Banedon, thoughtfully, <quote>I know Gwynian. If the amulet you wear was given to you by him then, perhaps, you do not need the special protection I had in mind after all.</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon takes the small wooden box and hands it to you. Upon opening it you discover it contains a platinum amulet, almost identical to the one you are already wearing.</p>
- <p><quote>I see what you mean,</quote> you say, as you close the lid and return the box to Banedon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect57"><link-text>Turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the Sommerswerd and a brilliant golden light erupts along its divinely-crafted blade. The goodly light of the sun-sword washes over your ghastly adversaries, causing them to howl with naked fear. Instantly you seize the advantage and strike out at them before they can get away.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Cabalah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">54</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These undead creatures are immune to <!--ERRTAG-RE-253493-->Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253493-->. Ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain during the first two rounds of combat. Also, remember to apply all the appropriate <!--ERRTAG-RE-251910-->bonuses<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251910--> whilst using the Sommerswerd against these undead enemies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your desperate combat is interrupted by a whirling gale-force wind. It arises in the centre of the chamber and accelerates like a cyclone around the walls, separating you from your enemy and hurling you both to the floor.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the air crackles and seethes with static power. A dark shape is taking form at the centre of the raging cyclone, a shape which radiates an intense aura of evil. It solidifies into a tall, black-robed torso surmounted by a goat-like skull. Where there should be eye-sockets you see fiery cores of scarlet energy. Fear grips you with its icy hand when you smell the stench of death and corruption that hangs heavy around this dread being. You are in no doubt that you are now in the presence of the Deathlord of Ixia.</p>
- <p>Tagazin whimpers like a frightened pup and slinks towards his master, his head bowed in fearful subservience. The Deathlord removes the Deathstaff from inside his funereal robe and holds it on high. Tagazin freezes in his tracks and his whole body trembles violently<ch.emdash/>he is clearly petrified of his master<ch.apos/>s wrath. Ixiataaga sweeps the air with the evil staff and, in a terrifying instant, both you and Tagazin are lifted by the raging wind and hurled into the dark abyss that is the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as the patrol is a safe distance away, you haul yourself out of the water and run to the cover of some boulders which lie embedded in the icy shore of this subterranean lake. Here you discover to your dismay that, during your underwater swim, you lost two items from your Backpack.</p>
- <p>Erase those items which you have recorded in spaces 4 and 6 on your Backpack Items list.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">To continue, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away in a desperate attempt to dodge the oncoming bolt, but it twists like a crackling snake in mid-air and glances off your left shoulder. The force of its impact sends you spinning to the deck where you crash heavily among the sundered skulls and bones of your skeletal foes.</p>
- <p>You are dazed and bruised but otherwise unharmed, the glancing blow and your Magnakai skill of Nexus having spared you the worst effects of the deadly bolt. You shake your head wearily and attempt to stand, only to find yourself half-kneeling before the clawed feet of your would-be killer. The creature is advancing slowly and is nearing the end of the gangplank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If you possess the Discipline of Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you do not possess these Disciplines, or if you choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you regain consciousness, it seems as if you have been knocked out for no more than a few minutes, but as your mind clears you sense that you are still at sea, although no longer in the hold of the Ixian ice-boat. Countless hours, perhaps even days, could have elapsed since you were knocked out, and now you find yourself lying face-down on the floor of a small dank cell. Instinctively you reach for your weapon<ch.emdash/>but it is no longer there. Your head throbs, your body aches viciously, and your mood is further soured when you discover that your Backpack, your Weapons, and all of your Special Items (with the exception of your Platinum Amulet) are missing.</p>
- <p>You roll over wearily and drag yourself to your feet. You can hear noises in a distant part of this vessel and, when you intensify your hearing, you become aware that this mysterious craft is slowing down as if in preparation to dock. Anxious to escape, and doubly anxious to retrieve your missing equipment, you step towards the door of the cell.</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite the difficulties, you handle the vessel like a master seaman. Within three hours of entering the narrows, you emerge on the far side of the ice-field without a scratch and are able to continue your voyage to Fort Azgad without any further delays.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your divine blade inflicts the wounds which destroy these creatures, their bodies undergo a swift and gruesome transformation. They implode, twisting and shrinking as they contract, until all that is left are three evil-smelling pools of bubbling black venom surrounded by melted ice and fragments of smouldering cloth.</p>
- <p>You sheathe the Sommerswerd and step away from the foul remains. But as you turn to leave the ruins, you hear a terrifying howl that makes your blood run cold. With fearful anticipation you look up at the towering <!--ERRTAG-RE-259049-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259049--> and see, illuminated by lightning flashes, the awesome figure of Deathlord Ixiataaga. He stands behind the parapet of a window in the upper reaches of the spire, the Deathstaff raised high in his ungodly hand. He has sensed the presence of the Sommerswerd and he has determined to destroy it.</p>
- <p>You see a flash of white light explode at the tip of the Deathstaff and, in the very next instant, you feel agonizing pain shoot through every part of your body. Then an explosion of white-hot fire obliterates your senses and, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to the Deathlord of Ixia. Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lock disintegrates and the door bursts open, spraying a shower of ice into the empty corridor beyond. Before leaving the cell you pause for a few moments to use your Magnakai skill of Nexus in an attempt to determine the location of your missing weapons and equipment. You sense they are distant. Guided by your feelings, you turn to the right and go off along the corridor in search of them.</p>
- <p>The dingy, ice-caked corridor wends its way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You explore a maze of empty holds, where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through low-ceilinged chambers that, despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. At length your search ends at a great grey door which is guarded by two undead Drakkarim warriors, armed with spears. The noises you heard earlier have now ceased, and so has the movement of the vessel. You sense that this craft is no longer at sea.</p>
- <p>From the cover of a curving crystal bulkhead, you spy upon the Drakkarim guards while you consider your next move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to attack the guards with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you choose instead to use your Magnakai mind Disciplines upon the guards, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your mastery of the Kai mind Discipline of Grand Nexus, you focus on the hole and attempt to will the lock open.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of <!--ERRTAG-RE-260752-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-260752--> you have attained, above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you <!--ERRTAG-RE-264501-->have picked.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264501--></p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect203">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-258103-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258103--> immediately you feel yourself rising up out of the mire. You clear the scummy surface and continue to float up the shaft until you are face-to-face with the <!--ERRTAG-RE-261529-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-261529--> who are crowded around the pit<ch.apos/>s edge. You draw your weapon and prepare to fight your way through them, but, as soon as you lash out at your first target, you falter and slip a few feet into the gaping shaft. You are finding it difficult to maintain your levitation spell and fight at the same time.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 15 or lower, deduct 2 from the number you have picked. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 36 or higher, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect111">If your total is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect154">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>There<ch.apos/>s the answer,</quote> you say, pointing to the Ixian ship.</p>
- <p><quote>B<ch.ellips/> b<ch.ellips/> but<ch.ellips/></quote> stammers Prarg, clearly taken aback by the suggestion.</p>
- <p><quote>I grant you, it is a strange craft,</quote> you say, <quote>but it looks well-suited for passage through icy waters. It served the enemy<ch.apos/>s purpose well enough<ch.emdash/>I say it<ch.apos/>s time we put it to better use.</quote></p>
- <p>Prarg gives a weak smile and follows hesitantly in your wake as you leap aboard the deck of the Ixian ship.</p>
- <p><quote>First we<ch.apos/>d best make sure it is empty,</quote> you say, as you unsheathe your weapon.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> replies Prarg, <quote>which end do you wish to search, Grand Master, the bow or the stern?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect240">If you wish to search the stern of the ship, <link-text>turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you choose to search the bow, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to avoid the onrushing bolt of energy but your reactions are too slow. It catches you in the upper body and an explosion of white-hot fire obliterates your senses. In this terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to the power of the Deathstaff. Your life and your quest end here in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-265009-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265009--> of Ixia.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect179-1-foot" idref="sect179-1">
- <p>It is unclear whether Grand Huntmastery should help you find food in this situation. Note that this appears to be the only section within the Grand Master books where Huntmastery is not mentioned in when you are required to eat a Meal. This either means that the current omission is intentional because the author is otherwise so consistent, or it means that Huntmastery was intended to be applied in all situations and this is an unintentional omission.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>After an hour spent burrowing with your bare hands through the snow and ice, you eventually break through to the surface. To your disappointment you discover that the blizzard is still raging, and much of the pass has now been filled by the avalanche. No trace remains of the circle of rocks that had offered you hope of protection from the cruel elements.</p>
- <p>With the storm showing no sign of abating, you dig a hollow in the snow and curl up in it with your back to the howling wind. While you wait out the storm in this makeshift shelter, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.<footref id="sect179-1" idref="sect179-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect338">To continue, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the top of the stairs you find a chamber where the walls and floor are thick with frost. Standing beside a locked door is a crystal plinth on which lies an Onyx Key covered by a clear glass dome. Your Kai <!--ERRTAG-RE-265312-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265312--> tingles as you approach it<ch.emdash/>you sense that the glass dome is protected by sorcery.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small8" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small8" class="pdf"/>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you already possess an Onyx Key, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If you possess Kai-alchemy or Grand Nexus, and wish to use one of these Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If you do not possess the <!--ERRTAG-RE-265801-->Special Item, or do not<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265801--> have or choose not to use the Disciplines, then <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From out of the eerie mist there looms a high-prowed ship, wrought of age-blackened timbers which glisten with ice and frost. It speeds into the harbour and a morbid terror grips the hearts of the Lencian garrison when they see that it is crewed by a cadaverous host of skeletal warriors. A ghastly wail arises from the invading ship, an unholy shriek that shatters the garrison<ch.apos/>s will to resist. As one, the shocked Lencians turn and flee from the quayside, dropping and discarding their supplies and weapons in their hurry to get away.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small5" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small5" class="pdf"/>
- <p><quote>Ishir preserve us!</quote> cries Lanza, as he takes up his sword belt and hurries towards the door. <quote>My men are routing. I must rally them to the defence before all is lost!</quote></p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill11" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill11" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Prarg unsheathes his sword and rushes after Lanza. Outside the door you see a circular stone staircase which leads up to the roof, or down to the base of the watchtower. Lanza descends the stairs but Prarg does not follow. Instead, he begins to climb the steps to the roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to follow Captain Lanza, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you decide to go after Captain Prarg, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pilot the ship cautiously along a string of narrow fjords which cut an uncertain route through this treacherous field of icebergs. Using a mix of hand signals and telepathy, you send directions to the helmsman at the rear of the ship. It is a gruelling procedure which soon takes its toll on the nerves of all aboard.</p>
- <p>Every few minutes your vision is obscured by gusts of powdery snow which swirl across the deck, blown down from the tops of the surrounding ice cliffs. During one of these fierce blasts you are momentarily blinded. You clasp your hands to your stinging eyes and suddenly the incessant howl of the wind is accompanied by the tortured screech of the hull as it collides with a bank of submerged ice. The impact sends the ship careering violently to starboard and in a terrifying instant, you are flung head-first over the ship<ch.apos/>s rail into the sea.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect212">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect66">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Tagazin is poised to strike you a second devastating blow, but his attack is thwarted by a whirling gale-force wind. It arises in the centre of the chamber and accelerates like a cyclone around the walls, separating you from the enemy and hurling you both to the floor.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, the air crackles and seethes with static power. A dark shape is taking form at the centre of the raging cyclone, a shape which radiates an intense aura of evil. It solidifies into a tall, black-robed torso surmounted by a goat-like skull. Where there should be eye-sockets you see fiery cores of scarlet energy. Fear grips you with its icy hand when you smell the stench of death and corruption that hangs heavy around this dread being. You are in no doubt that you are now in the presence of the Deathlord of Ixia.</p>
- <p>Tagazin whimpers like a frightened pup and slinks towards his master, his head bowed in fearful subservience. The Deathlord removes the Deathstaff from inside his funereal robe and holds it on high. Tagazin freezes in his tracks and his whole body trembles violently<ch.emdash/>he is clearly petrified of his master<ch.apos/>s wrath. Ixiataaga sweeps the air with the evil staff and, in a terrifying instant, both you and Tagazin are lifted by the raging wind and hurled into the dark abyss that is the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303"><link-text>Turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lightning strike has burned through your pack and seared your back: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Numb with shock, you stagger unsteadily to your feet and unsling your smouldering Backpack. After smothering with snow those parts which have been scorched by the lightning bolt, you open the flap to discover that three items have been completely destroyed (erase three items of your own choosing from your Backpack list).</p>
- <p>Pained but thankful at least to have survived the deadly strike, you shoulder your Backpack and hurry the last few remaining yards towards the beckoning shelter of the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your regret, the new wave of Lavas reach the <!--ERRTAG-RE-271699-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271699--> before you and form a protective circle around his <!--ERRTAG-RE-271813-->cream-coloured<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271813--> body. Those that remain in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-271900-->sky beat<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271900--> the air with their mighty wings, causing a powerful <!--ERRTAG-RE-265861-->down-draft<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265861--> which holds you at bay.</p>
- <p>Shielding your eyes from the stinging dust-choked wind, you look up to see that one of the winged creatures is cradling a curious item in its horny hands, an item which radiates an intense aura of evil power. At first glance it resembles a large metal bowl with a sharp spear of crystal fixed to its underside, but when the Lavas descends towards Tagazin and inverts it, you suddenly realize its true purpose and design. It is a helm of power, affixed on top with a crystal spike. The Lavas places the helm upon the <!--ERRTAG-RE-272627-->Demonlord<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272627--> head and the spike begins to glow menacingly.</p>
- <p>Now all of the Lavas ascend into the sky where they wait to view a confrontation which is about to commence. Suddenly Tagazin, revitalized by the power of the spiked helm, comes charging at you with his head lowered, snorting gruffly like a raging bull.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the stairs cautiously and peer over the lip of the hatch in time to witness a scene that shocks you to the core. You see that the undead Drakkarim warriors have slain all of the Lencian crew and have heaped their bodies around the base of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-274268-->mainmast<!--/ERRTAG-RE-274268-->. One of the undead, who is clad in a filthy grey cloak embroidered with alien symbols, utters a chilling liturgy over the corpses of the slain. The chill air crackles with power and sparks of evil energy whirl around their bodies. When at last the liturgy ends, you see the dead Lencians rise up and take their places alongside the Drakkarim undead.</p>
- <p>Numb with shock, you slowly retreat down the stairs and hide yourself in a corner of the ship<ch.apos/>s hold while you consider a new plan of action.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your swift reactions save you from a direct hit, yet one of the bolts passes close enough to sear your thigh as you are diving for cover: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221"><link-text>Turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first your chosen passage is wide and deep, but within an hour of entering, it becomes treacherously narrow. With no crew to help you pilot the craft, you are in great risk of running the ship aground on the encroaching icebergs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>1, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If it is 2<ch.endash/>10, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you instruct the helmsman to listen out for your directions, then you leave the wheelhouse and make your way forward to the bow. The vast bulk of any iceberg lies hidden beneath the surface and, with this chilling thought in mind, you lean over the prow and keep a careful watch on the waterline. This ship is strongly built but a <!--ERRTAG-RE-275996-->collision<!--/ERRTAG-RE-275996--> with a submerged ridge could easily rip its hull wide open.</p>
- <p>Guided by your telepathic directions, the helmsman steers the vessel towards a passage that is over-shadowed on either side by two monstrous mountains of ice.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If it is 5<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect284">If it is 9 or higher, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creatures yield to your powerful blows, but the grievous wounds you deal them draw neither blood nor ichor. The ground around your feet is crawling with severed segments of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-277074-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277074-->. Hacked and dismembered, they continue to wriggle forwards, forcing you <!--ERRTAG-RE-277215-->to retreat grudgingly<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277215--> towards the steps.</p>
- <p>When, to your mounting horror, you witness the dismembered segments press themselves together to form composite creatures of impossible shape and design, your nerve breaks and you flee headlong down the steps. The hideous gibbering shrieks of the reformed chaos-creatures echo in your ears as you descend into the claustrophobic depths of this sunken building. At first their cries sound hungry and frantic, like those of a ravenous pack of starving wolves denied their prey, but suddenly you realize that they are not cries of hunger at all<ch.emdash/>they are howls of glee. The gibbering chaos-creatures are enjoying the sight of you rushing headlong to your doom!</p>
- <p>You skid to a halt but it is already too late. With chilling abruptness, the slimy stairs open up and you fall feet-first into a deep, dark pit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the sound of a key turning in the lock, you tense yourself in readiness to launch a surprise <!--ERRTAG-RE-278446-->attack the<!--/ERRTAG-RE-278446--> instant the door swings open. The heavy portal creaks inwards and you hurl yourself at the head of a small group of skeletal warriors who stand framed in the doorway. You collide with their leader and slam him to the ground. In his bony hand he clutches a rod which hums with the power contained within its silvery haft. He had intended to use its power on you, to extract details of your mission, but the swiftness of your attack has pre-empted this. The skeletal being shrieks with anger as you wrestle the rod from his grasp. Suddenly, a blast of red-hot fire erupts from its tip, carving a fist-sized chunk of stone from the cell wall. The recoil of the blast makes you drop the rod, which falls to the floor, close to the booted feet of the other skeletal guards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to snatch up the rod before the skeletal guards retrieve it themselves, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you decide to ignore the rod, you can attempt an escape through the open door by <link-text>turning to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Intuition prompts you to take out the Onyx Key from your pocket and try it in the hole. It fits perfectly and, when you twist it clockwise, the entire portal begins to shimmer and lose its solidity. It becomes transparent before fading completely, as if evaporating into thin air. You go to retrieve the Onyx Key but it, too, has disappeared (erase this Special Item from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Relieved that you have overcome this obstacle, you step through the now-open archway and into an adjoining hall. This vaulted, oblong-shaped hall is illuminated by flickerings of electrical fire which arc between two <!--ERRTAG-RA-280795-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-280795--> pillars at the far end of the chamber. Beyond the pillars you can make out the shadowy entrance to another chamber; it is the only other exit from this hall. You realize at once that to pass between the pillars could prove to be fatal: the power arcing between them is as great as any lightning storm raging in the skies above Xaagon. Yet there may be a way of avoiding contact with this raw power. You notice that the two <!--ERRTAG-RA-280795-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-280795--> pillars do not go all the way to the ceiling<ch.emdash/>there is a gap, a little over two feet wide above them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to attempt to climb one of the pillars and squeeze through the gap in order to reach the adjoining hall, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you decide to throw caution to the wind and run between the pillars, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge from the <!--ERRTAG-RE-282679-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282679--> with barely seconds to spare. As you descend the main ramp which leads away into the streets of Xaagon, the great archway disintegrates completely, bringing with it a vast section of the foundation wall. This collapse begins a chain reaction of destruction that culminates in the spectacular fall of the upper spire, which crashes down upon the city like some massive crystal tree felled at the roots.</p>
- <p>You run without stopping, through the quaking streets to the shattered west gate, and then onwards through the deepening snow towards the narrow mountain pass. You are more than a mile from the walls of Xaagon when eventually you stop to rest and survey the destruction you have left behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lying beneath Banedon<ch.apos/>s chart table is a seemingly plain leather sword belt and scabbard. Banedon retrieves these items of equipment and hands them to you. <quote>Here, Grand Master. This scabbard has been impregnated with the rare mineral<ch.emdash/>korlinium. It will shield the radiant power of your sword.</quote></p>
- <p>You exchange your old belt and scabbard for these new ones. (Mark the <!--ERRTAG-RE-282913-->Korlinium Scabbard<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282913--> as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already carry the maximum number of Special Items permitted.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect22"><link-text>Turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than a mile to the north, like some nightmare apparition surfacing from the deep, you see a broad-prowed vessel of prodigious size breaking low in the stormy water. You magnify your vision and see that its main deck is completely enclosed by a canopy of overlapping green-grey timbers, affording it the appearance of some gigantic fish. Two glassy portholes and a jagged line which stretches around its prow complete this chilling illusion.</p>
- <p>For its shape and size it moves towards your ship at an unnatural speed. You call the crew to arms, fearing it to be an enemy vessel closing to attack, and you sense a shudder run through them when, for the first time, they clearly discern its alien design. You focus your Kai senses upon the oncoming craft and suddenly you realize its purpose. It is an Ixian vessel, come to rendezvous with your ship, believing it still to be manned by the undead horde which attacked Fort Azgad.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill12" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill12" class="pdf"/>
- <p><quote>Stand firm!</quote> you shout, attempting to rally the nervous Lencians as the craft speeds ever nearer. When less than a <!--ERRTAG-RE-290089-->hundred yards<!--/ERRTAG-RE-290089--> distant, its great prow begins to creak open. It is as if you are looking into the ghastly maw of a hungry sea predator. The fearful sight alarms the Lencian crew and they flee towards the bow of the ship in panic: <quote>Save us!</quote> they <!--ERRTAG-RE-285121-->cry. <quote>Ishir<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285121--> save us! It<ch.apos/>s going to eat us alive!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect236"><link-text>Turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flee the chamber, escaping past many Ixian and Drakkarim guards who stand rigidly immobile, fixed in the poses and attitudes they were in the very moment you vanquished the Deathlord. It was his power which gave them un-life; now that power is no more.</p>
- <p><!--ERRTAG-RE-285729-->Fearing for your survival<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285729-->, you sprint across heaving, buckling slabs of broken stone that were once smooth tiled floors, and rush down staircases that crack and twist beneath your feet. You are racing down one such stairwell when suddenly an entire section collapses, leaving a gaping hole more than fifty feet deep. Above you, a row of pillars topple like storm-shaken trees, blocking the stairs completely, and making it impossible for you to retrace your steps.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-292491-->Sun Thane<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292491-->, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you possess Telegnosis, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun <!--ERRTAG-RE-286539-->Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286539-->, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you do not possess either of these Disciplines, or if you have yet to attain the relevant levels of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn instead to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You trudge stoically through the snow and ice towards the distant circle of rocks, hoping all the while that they will afford you some protection from this incessant blizzard. When you are within a few dozen yards of the circle, you hear a deafening <onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia> which sets your pulse racing. With that split-second warning, a huge expanse of rock and ice breaks away from the slopes above and swiftly transforms itself into a thundering avalanche. Wide-eyed with horror, you watch as a million tons of ice, snow, and shale comes rumbling down the mountainside towards you.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small12" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small12" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Galvanized into action, you turn and run from this deadly white wall of destruction. It is almost upon you when you see a low shelf of rock near the base of the pass, and desperately you dive for cover beneath it.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Nexus, you may add another 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total score is now 4 or lower, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If it is 5<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If it is 9 or higher, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Outside of this vessel is a vast subterranean lake enclosed within a titanic cavern of ice. Several ice-boats, similar to the one on which you set sail from Fort Azgad, are moored in a long line at the lake<ch.apos/>s edge. Scores of undead warriors attend to these ships, and many more can be seen marching along the frosty walkways which go all around the lake<ch.apos/>s shoreline.</p>
- <p>Quickly you realize that these ships are part of a great invasion fleet. Constructed by the slaves of Deathlord Ixiataaga, they can only have been built for one purpose<ch.emdash/>to carry his armies of undead warriors to the lands of the living. Rimoah and Ardan were correct<ch.emdash/>the Deathlord does intend to wage a bloody war upon Magnamund<ch.emdash/>yet even their gloomiest predictions failed to estimate just how advanced his plans are.</p>
- <p>Shocked by the revelation of your discovery, you reaffirm your vow to thwart the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s monstrous scheme. You move away from the porthole and hurry along the hallway in search of a way out of this alien submarine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your frustration at not being able to solve the psychic riddle soon deepens into despair. The oppressive aura of evil which fills this chamber is beginning to undermine your will to go on.</p>
- <p>Driven by the need to escape from its insidious effect, you commence a search for another exit. During this laborious search you discover a tiny hole near the base of the archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you possess an Onyx Key, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling winds of the void rip at your face and clothing as you plummet into the core of the lightless abyss. You lose all sense of time until, in the remote distance, you see tiny motes of light come streaking towards your face. Then, as suddenly as it began, the sensation of falling through deep space is replaced by an abrupt cessation of movement.</p>
- <p>Stunned and disorientated, you shake your head and rise uneasily to your feet. As your blurred vision clears, you see that you have returned to the chamber of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-292181-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-292181--> from where you were first sent tumbling into the Shadow Gate. It is empty now. Fearing the worst, you use your Kai skills to determine the time and the date. To your immediate relief you discover that only a few hours have elapsed during your absence from Magnamund; it is still possible for you to achieve your quest.</p>
- <p>You resolve to find the Deathlord, even if it means searching every chamber of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-292181-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-292181-->. You turn to leave this hall, but a noise behind you makes you freeze in your tracks. The sudden stench of decay and corruption tells you that you may not have to look too far to find your adversary after all.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb the rigging rapidly until you reach the middle section of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-292595-->mainmast<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292595-->. Here you cut free a guide rope and use it to swing clear of the burning ship. Your Kai skills enable you to see through the billowing clouds of smoke and, as your swing begins to lose momentum, you get ready to release your grip and make your jump to the quayside<ch.emdash/>a distance of more than fifty feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you have Grand Huntmastery, add 1 for every level you have attained above that of Kai Grand Defender.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your <!--ERRTAG-RE-292820-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292820--> warns you that you have inadvertently triggered a silent alarm. You unsheathe your weapon and turn to leave this rubble-strewn chamber, but as you move towards the stairs you hear a sound that makes you spin on your heel: it is the grating rumble of stone on stone.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small11" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small11" class="pdf"/>
- <p>From out of a secret panel in the wall to your left come six skeletal warriors, each one brandishing a rust-pitted sword. They make no sound, yet their eye sockets are aglow with sorcerous fire as they rush across the chamber towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you wish to stand and fight these skeletal warriors, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you choose to escape from this chamber by the stairs, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes of intense concentration your <!--ERRTAG-RE-293855-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293855--> pays off. Successfully you will the lock to disengage, yet the effort required is far greater than you could have anticipated and it leaves you mentally weakened: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The portal begins to shimmer and lose its solidity. At first it becomes transparent and then it fades completely, as if evaporating into thin air. With a smile of satisfaction on your lips at having overcome it, you step through the now-open archway and into an adjoining hall.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small10" class="pdf"/>
- <p>This vaulted, oblong-shaped hall is illuminated by flickerings of electrical fire which arc between two <!--ERRTAG-RA-295051-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-295051--> pillars at the far end of the chamber.</p>
- <p>Beyond the pillars you can make out the shadowy entrance to another chamber; it is the only other exit from this hall. You realize at once that to pass between the pillars could prove to be fatal: the power arcing between them is as great as any lightning storm raging in the skies above Xaagon. Yet there may be a way of avoiding contact with this raw power. You notice that the two <!--ERRTAG-RA-295051-->freestanding<!--/ERRTAG-RA-295051--> pillars do not go all the way to the ceiling<ch.emdash/>there is a gap at the top, a little over two feet wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you wish to attempt to climb one of the pillars and squeeze through the gap in order to reach the adjoining hall, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you decide to throw caution to the wind and run directly between the pillars, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lying behind the stone table you discover three leather haversacks. Curious as to what they contain, you rip them open and spill their contents out on to the frost-covered floor. Mostly they hold crudely-made eating utensils<ch.emdash/>battered metal bowls, flasks, iron cutlery and the like. But among these worthless items you discover something that makes your eyes widen<ch.emdash/>it is a key fashioned expertly from green stone.</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep this Onyx Key, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in the pocket of your tunic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">To continue, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize the winged creatures. You encountered them the last time you were here upon the Plane of Darkness. They are Lavas<ch.emdash/>fell servants of the Dark God Naar.</p>
- <p>The dozen or so Lavas surrounding the ailing Tagazin appear to be urging him on towards the Shadow Gate. Your hopes of returning to your home world rose when first you saw the Shadow Gate, but now the familiar sensation of fear returns to chill your blood. The thought occurs to you that if Tagazin should enter the Shadow Gate before you, the Lavas may be able to close it behind him and deny you the chance of escaping from this evil domain. It is a risk you cannot afford to take.</p>
- <p>Drawing your weapon, you race along the track in pursuit of the Demonlord, grimly determined to prevent him from reaching the Shadow Gate alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stumble away from the cave mouth, you look back over your shoulder to see the mysterious creature illuminated momentarily by a flash of lightning. The sight is chilling to behold. From the creature<ch.apos/>s huge, bear-like body there writhes a score of slimy tentacles, and from the top of its reptilian head there protrudes a twisted horn, longer than a broadsword. It gives a loud gibbering howl of victory before returning to its evil-smelling lair.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small12" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small12" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Denied shelter in the cave, you return to the bottom of the pass and seek cover among the circle of rocks which lie on the southern face. When you are within a few dozen yards of the circle, you hear a deafening <!--ERRTAG-RE-298425--><onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia><!--/ERRTAG-RE-298425--> which sets your pulse racing. With that split-second warning, a huge expanse of rock and ice breaks away from the slopes above and swiftly transforms itself into a thundering avalanche. Wide-eyed with horror, you watch as a million tons of ice, snow, and shale comes rumbling down the mountainside towards you.</p>
- <p>Galvanized into action, you turn and run from this deadly white wall of destruction. It is almost upon you when you see a low shelf of rock near the base of the pass, and desperately you dive for cover beneath it.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Nexus, you may add another 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect99">If your total is now 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If it is 6<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect104">If it is 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than fifty yards away you see a shaggy, grey-furred beast of burden which is harnessed to a wooden wagon. A <!--ERRTAG-RE-305784-->troop of undead soldiers is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-305784--> unloading shiny metallic containers from the back of this wagon which they then carry, cradled in their bony arms, into the open mouth of the submarine.</p>
- <p>Stealthily, you make your way closer to the wagon and await the chance to climb aboard as soon as the final container has been off-loaded. At last the opportunity arrives; you leap aboard and hide yourself from sight beneath a greasy, foul-smelling tarpaulin.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes you feel a jolt as the wagon moves off. Through a crack in its ancient wooden planks, you watch with trepidation as the wagon trundles along a causeway towards the distant tunnel entrance. It enters the tunnel, unchallenged by the skeletal warriors who stand guard here, and ascends a gentle gradient to another ice-walled cavern. Several passages connect here from all directions, like the spokes of a giant wheel converging at the hub.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill13" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill13" class="pdf"/>
- <p>An undead Drakkarim soldier steps forward, takes hold of the shaggy beast<ch.apos/>s harness, and leads the wagon towards a stockpile of metallic containers. Clearly he intends to load these on to the wagon for transportation back to the submarine. Fearing discovery, you leap from the rear of the moving wagon and hide yourself among a stack of empty wooden crates. From here you observe two possible ways by which you could leave this busy cavern; by an unguarded staircase in the north wall, or through an open archway in the east wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to leave this cavern by the staircase, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you choose to leave through the open archway, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aided by your mastery, you crouch down amongst the foul-smelling debris which litters the floor of the hold. A dozen undead warriors enter by the stairs and begin a systematic search, but your advanced camouflage skills make you virtually invisible, even to their psychic probes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118"><link-text>Turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike your killing blow and the creature<ch.apos/>s tongue flickers in and out as it hisses like a sleeting gale. It drops to its knees, its talons scrabbling for your legs, and its eyes flaring brightly with evil fire. Quickly you step back and watch the flames that are its eyes flicker and go out. Then it crumples to the icy ground, its body transforming swiftly into an evil-smelling pool of bubbling black venom.</p>
- <p>The destruction of the Cabalah seems to weaken the attacking horde. They <!--ERRTAG-RE-303096-->falter, and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-303096--> Lanza<ch.apos/>s men seize the opportunity to <!--ERRTAG-RE-303201-->counterattack<!--/ERRTAG-RE-303201-->. You rush forward and join them as they fight their way valiantly back towards the quay.</p>
- <p><quote>Look there, Grand Master!</quote> shouts Lanza, pointing to the ice-boat. A score of undead have clambered aboard the vessel and it is clear by their actions that they intend to destroy and sink it.</p>
- <p><quote>They must be stopped!</quote> you cry. You break free from the battle and run headlong towards the stricken ship. You are halfway along its gangplank when you find yourself confronted by a wedge of skeletal warriors, armed with crude axes and swords.</p>
- <p>You leap into their midst, striking them down with blurring speed and deadly accuracy. As the last one falls, its corpse-like body almost severed at the waist, you hear a noise behind you which makes you spin around in fearful expectation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach down to unsheathe your weapon, but it has only just cleared the scabbard when a terrible pain knifes through your lower left leg. The unseen pit-beast has clamped its powerful jaws around your calf and is now attempting to drag you below the surface of the bog. Desperately you stab blindly for the creature<ch.apos/>s head in an attempt to cut yourself free from its vice-tight grip.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Suggaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you enter the electrical field arcing between the pillars, an <!--ERRTAG-RE-305179-->explosion of white-hot<!--/ERRTAG-RE-305179--> fire obliterates your vision and you feel agonizing pain shoot through every part of your body: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315">If you are still alive after this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a yell of desperation you tumble headlong towards the sea and strike the water face-first. For an instant you feel its icy chill, then you are plunged into darkness as your head and left shoulder slam against a ridge of solid ice that lies submerged just a few inches below the slushy surface. Mercifully, you are knocked unconscious and spared the agony of being crushed and torn between the ship<ch.apos/>s prow and the cruel, unyielding ice.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the Tozaz Sea.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect213-1-foot" idref="sect213-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect199">turn immediately to 199</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>The bodies of the ghastly creatures undergo a swift and gruesome transformation upon the instant you deal them the <foreign>coup de gr<ch.acirc/>ce</foreign>. Their torsos implode with dramatic effect, and they barely have time to cry out in agony as their twisted remains hit the floor and crumble to dust.</p>
- <p>You sheathe your weapon and step away from the foul-smelling mounds of dust. But as you go to leave, you discover that the open archway that these creatures were guarding when you first arrived in this <!--ERRTAG-RE-306850-->chamber is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306850--> now sealed. You approach the solid sheet of opaque green crystal and examine an intricate lockplate which is set in the centre of its mirror-smooth surface. It is a lock of ancient design, one which operates by psychic energy. You study the intricate patterns which embellish it and gradually you realize that they give clues to a two-digit number. By projecting the image of this number at the lock, using your psychic powers, you will release the locking mechanism and cause the portal to open.</p>
- <p>The first of the two numbers is equal to the number of islands which can be found within 150 miles of Xaagon.</p>
- <p>The second number is equal to the number of cities and towns which can be found located in the Shegtar Peaks.</p>
- <choice>Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> in order to determine the correct two-digit number which will open the lock. When you think you have cracked it, turn to the entry that bears that same number as your answer.<footref id="sect213-1" idref="sect213-1-foot"/></choice>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you calculate incorrectly, or if you cannot solve the clues, <link-text>turn instead to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise the Sommerswerd and a gout of golden flame engulfs the blade, flaring with such brilliance that Deathlord Ixiataaga is momentarily blinded by its goodly light. He shrieks, and raises the Deathstaff defensively to ward off your first blow. As the blade of the sun-sword bites the haft of Ixiataaga<ch.apos/>s fell weapon, a hissing mass of crimson and gold sparks explode into the air. These fiery motes are sucked into the vortex of the Shadow Gate, which has now begun to whirl with alarming intensity.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small1" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small1" class="pdf"/>
- <p>The Deathlord reels from the force of the impact, but he recovers swiftly and thrusts the sharp tip of the Deathstaff at your face. You duck the thrust, but you sense that this is just the beginning of what will be a titanic fight to the finish.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Deathlord Ixiataaga (with Deathstaff<ch.emdash/>uncharged)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">60</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This supernatural being is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and advance bravely towards the Deathlord, determined to take the fight to him and finish him in mortal combat. His laughter buffets you like a ghastly storm, and its growing, concussive power keeps you from reaching the fiery moat. Then you see a ball of light appear at the tip of the Deathstaff and, in the very next moment, an agonizing pain shoots through your chest. Almost immediately there is an explosion of white-hot fire that obliterates your senses and, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to the Deathlord and his staff of unholy power. Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare into the glowing eyes of the approaching <!--ERRTAG-RE-310390-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-310390--> and muster your strength to summon up a pulse of psychic energy. The pulse forms a radiant ball of power which you send speeding across the chamber to slam into Tagazin<ch.apos/>s unprotected mind. He flinches with pain and halts momentarily, but he soon recovers and presses home his attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">54</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You may use Kai-surge again during this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If at any time during this <!--ERRTAG-RE-311030-->fight you<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311030--> reduce Tagazin<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 25 or less, do not continue, but <link-text>turn instead to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring to mind the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-307042-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Counterspell</spell> and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-307042--> focus on the lock as you quietly recite them under your breath. For a few moments the air crackles with static electricity, then you feel a calm descend: the sorcerous spell which once protected this door has suddenly evaporated.</p>
- <p>Confident that it is safe to proceed, you unsheathe your weapon and use its tip to prise open the three lockplates, revealing their internal mechanisms. With the lock exposed, you set about the now-simple task of opening the door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10"><link-text>Turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The second wave of <!--ERRTAG-RE-312220-->Lavas comes swooping down<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312220-->, howling defiantly, and the terrific beat of their wings forces you and the <!--ERRTAG-RE-312378-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312378--> apart. You look up to see that one of the winged creatures is cradling a curious item in his horny hands, an item which radiates an intense aura of evil power. At first glance it resembles a large metal bowl with a sharp spear of crystal fixed to its underside, but when the Lavas descends <!--ERRTAG-RE-312735-->towards Tagazin<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312735--> and inverts it, you suddenly realize its true purpose and design. It is a helm of power, affixed with a crystal spike. The Lavas place the helm upon the <!--ERRTAG-RE-312948-->Demonlord<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312948--> head and the spike begins to glow menacingly.</p>
- <p>Now the encircling Lavas ascend into the sky where they wait to view the confrontation which is about to commence. Suddenly Tagazin, revitalized by the power of the spiked helm, comes charging at you with his head lowered, snorting loudly like a raging bull.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your hand closes around the hilt of the sun-sword, you suddenly recall Guildmaster Banedon<ch.apos/>s words of warning: <thought>Use the Sommerswerd with discretion. In the darkness of Ixia its power will be like a blazing beacon<ch.ellips/> it could readily alert the Deathlord to your presence.</thought></p>
- <p>For a moment you hesitate in drawing the sun-sword from its <!--ERRTAG-RE-314228-->Korlinium Scabbard<!--/ERRTAG-RE-314228-->. But the cave creature is now almost upon you<ch.emdash/>it is closing swiftly for the kill. You must act immediately if you are to defend yourself from its attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you choose to unsheathe the Sommerswerd and use it in your defence, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you decide to leave the Sommerswerd in its scabbard and use <!--ERRTAG-RE-314696-->another Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RE-314696--> instead, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect220-1-foot" idref="sect220-1">
- <p>This is a permanent enhancement to this Weapon.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Give me your <!--ERRTAG-RA-322174-->Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RA-322174-->, Grand Master,</quote> says Banedon, holding out his hand expectantly. You unsheathe your hand-weapon and pass it to him hilt-first. From a pocket he takes out a dull red gem, no bigger than a fig stone, and presses it gently against the hilt of your <!--ERRTAG-RA-322174-->Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RA-322174-->. To your surprise, you see the gem sink into the hilt as easily as if Banedon were pressing it into a pat of warm butter.</p>
- <p><quote>The gem is a Dessi Stone,</quote> says Banedon, in answer to your unspoken question. <quote>Lord Rimoah gave it to me. Now, I give it to you. Whenever you use this <!--ERRTAG-RA-322174-->Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RA-322174--> in combat against a non-living foe, the power of the Dessi Stone will help you achieve swift victory.</quote> Banedon returns your <!--ERRTAG-RA-322174-->Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RA-322174--> and you examine the Dessi Stone carefully for a few moments before sheathing it in your belt.</p>
- <p>With the <!--ERRTAG-RE-322048-->Dessi Stone<!--/ERRTAG-RE-322048--> fitted into its hilt, your <!--ERRTAG-RA-322174-->Weapon<!--/ERRTAG-RA-322174--> now inflicts double <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses against an undead opponent in combat. Be sure to record this modification on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>.<footref id="sect220-1" idref="sect220-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect22">To continue, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and try to get away but your escape is quickly thwarted. The creatures glide swiftly across the snow and block your escape route, forcing you to face them in a desperate hand-to-hand combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you possess the Sommerswerd and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect130">If you do not possess this Special Item, or choose not to use it in combat against these creatures, <link-text>turn instead to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You barge your way through the skeletal warriors and escape into a maze of dark corridors. The breathtaking speed of your action leaves them sprawled helplessly on the ground and, by the time they have untangled themselves and staggered to their feet, you are nowhere to be seen.</p>
- <p>When you are sure that you are not being followed, you pause for a few moments to use your Magnakai skill of Nexus in an attempt to determine the location of your missing weapons and equipment. You sense they are not too distant and, guided by your feelings, you go off along an adjoining passageway in search of them.</p>
- <p>The dingy, ice-caked tunnel wends its way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You explore a series of empty holds, where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through low-ceilinged chambers that, despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. At length your search ends at a great grey door which is guarded by two undead Drakkarim warriors, armed with spears. The noises you heard earlier have now ceased, and so has the movement of the vessel; you sense that this craft is no longer at sea.</p>
- <p>From the cover of a curving crystal bulkhead, you spy silently upon the Drakkarim guards while you consider your next move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to attack the guards with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you choose instead to use your Magnakai mind Disciplines upon the guards, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the wisps of black smoke are a manifestation of several evil beings, each possessed of a strong psychic presence. Fearing attack, you quickly draw upon your <!--ERRTAG-RE-318810-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-318810--> to construct a <spell>Mindfort</spell> to protect yourself from psychic assault. It is a wise precaution. Moments after the <spell>Mindfort</spell> is in place, the wisps streak across the chamber and encircle your body. They accelerate to a dizzying speed before launching a massive wave of psychic energy at your mind. Fortunately for you, this tidal wave crashes against the walls of your <spell>Mindfort</spell> and dissipates harmlessly into a thousand motes of light.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283"><link-text>Turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take the ship<ch.apos/>s wheel and turn this alien vessel out of the narrow harbour, into the roiling waters of the Tozaz Sea. It is less than an hour past noon and yet the winter night has already closed in. You share the icy darkness with a crew of six Lencian outposters, all of whom have volunteered for this perilous mission. Lanza has ordered them to land you on the coast of Ixia and wait at anchor for seven days for you to return; they must wait no longer.</p>
- <p>With ten miles of sea behind you, you hand over the wheel to one of the crew and settle down on the wheelhouse floor to sleep. But you have barely closed your eyes when the deck begins to buck like a stallion. The ship has sailed directly into a <foreign>saesha</foreign><ch.emdash/>a sudden and violent sea-storm <!--ERRTAG-RE-327201-->for which the Tozaz is infamous<!--/ERRTAG-RE-327201-->. Thunder roars and sleet blows with blinding ferocity as the ship dips and rolls in the waves.</p>
- <p>After what seems like an eternity, the ship emerges from the storm<ch.emdash/>a storm against which few craft other than this could have sailed. The darkness gives way to an eerie dawn which casts its watery light upon a new danger. In the grey half-light you see thousands of icebergs ahead, stretching across the horizon as far as the eye can see. Your heart sinks<ch.emdash/>navigating a course through this icy maze could well prove impossible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to take control of the ship<ch.apos/>s wheel as you approach the field of icebergs, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to go forward to the prow and act as ship<ch.apos/>s pilot, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Chunks of rock and crystal are raining down on your head from above, and what little remains of the stairs on which you are standing is fast crumbling away. You must act quickly to save yourself before this entire stairwell disintegrates and plummets into the hall below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you possess a Rope (<!--ERRTAG-RE-321679-->oiled or otherwise<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321679-->), <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect344">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take up one of the crystal swords and examine it. It is a fine blade, but one that was not crafted for a human hand. You replace it in the rack before leaving this chamber and climbing the stairs to the ice-cavern. Here you wait in the shadows for a chance to escape by the only other exit<ch.emdash/>the open archway in the east wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dozen or so winged creatures that surround the ailing Tagazin appear to be urging him on towards the Shadow Gate. Your hopes of returning to your home world rose when first you saw the whirling vortex, but now a familiar sensation of fear returns to chill your blood. The thought occurs to you that if Tagazin should enter the Shadow Gate before you, the dragon-creatures may be able to close it behind him and deny you the chance of ever escaping from this evil domain. It is a risk you cannot afford to take.</p>
- <p>Drawing your weapon, you race along the track in pursuit of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-323154-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-323154-->, grimly determined to prevent him from reaching the Shadow Gate alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you strike the final blow that consigns the Ziog to its doom, it drops to the deck and crumbles like ancient parchment.</p>
- <p>An unhuman cry arises from the skeleton horde grouped on the quay. They come charging down the gangplank towards you, hungry for vengeance. Instinctively you draw your weapon and strike the plank a mighty blow. The wood splits cleanly in two and both sections collapse, dumping the onrushing skeletons unceremoniously into the harbour<ch.apos/>s freezing water.</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you wish to examine the Ziog<ch.apos/>s remains, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you do not wish to approach the Ziog<ch.apos/>s body, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you reach the stone roof, you notice an opening at its centre, partially overgrown with barbed creepers. A closer look reveals a flight of steps, thick with slime, which descend into the darkness of the building which now lies trapped below the surface of the swamp. You are peering into this hellish gloom when suddenly your Kai senses alert you to an approaching threat.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill14" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill14" class="pdf"/>
- <p>You spin around to see a horde of monstrous shapes come streaming along the mossy ridge which you have just travelled. Bloated corpse-things jostle with humanoid horrors and skeletal warriors whose bones are gnawed with decay. It is a ghastly sight<ch.emdash/>a regiment of <!--ERRTAG-RA-325620-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RA-325620-->, drawn here by the scent of human prey. You shiver with dread, for clearly you are the prey they seek.</p>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you wish to evade these approaching <!--ERRTAG-RA-325620-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RA-325620--> by descending the steps inside the sunken stone building, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you choose to stand and fight the advancing horde, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recite the words of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-326382-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Strength</spell>, and within seconds<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326382-->, your body surges with <!--ERRTAG-RE-326547-->newfound<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326547--> energy. You increase your pace until you are running at three times your previous speed. Within a matter of seconds you close upon Tagazin, your weapon drawn in preparation to strike at him as you pass by, but the <!--ERRTAG-RE-326817-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326817--> sees that he can no longer <!--ERRTAG-RE-326904-->outdistance<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326904--> you and he stops to block your path. He is weaker than before, but he has lost none of his devilish cunning.</p>
- <p>As you come to within striking distance, suddenly he leaps at your chest and brings you crashing to the loamy ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin (injured)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Conduct this combat for one round only.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If Tagazin is killed outright during this single round of combat, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If he is not, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the snow and roll beneath the ice-shelf barely seconds before the leading edge of the avalanche comes roaring down. Tons of rock and ice engulf your shelter, causing part of it to collapse and trap your feet: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>When at last the terrible roaring ceases and, somewhat to your <!--ERRTAG-RE-328152-->surprise<!--/ERRTAG-RE-328152-->, you realize that you are still alive, you begin the slow and laborious process of digging yourself out of this icy tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179"><link-text>Turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the floor with a numbing jolt that takes your breath away, and leaves you partially concussed: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you survive this fall, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to turn away from the window and engage Captains Lanza and Prarg in conversation, when suddenly a loud, discordant bell rings out from above. The sound transfixes Lanza<ch.apos/>s face with shock.</p>
- <p><quote>By the gods!</quote> he <!--ERRTAG-RE-329219-->splutters. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329219--> the alarm bell<ch.emdash/>we<ch.apos/>re under attack!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect181"><link-text>Turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You project a powerful blast of Kai-surge at the group but, to your dismay, it does not affect them. One of the target creatures utters a sound that resembles a mocking laugh and, from a pocket of its tattered black robe, it draws a silvery rod which it levels at your head. Reflexively you dive for <!--ERRTAG-RE-329854-->cover, avoiding<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329854--> certain decapitation as a searing bolt of energy surges from its tip. It passes within inches of your back before impacting against a distant pillar of crystal.</p>
- <p>As you scramble to your feet, you see all three of the creatures gliding towards you across the snow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you wish to attempt to evade these ghoulish attackers, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you choose to stand and fight them, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tear yourself away from the horde and retreat to the stairs. With the hideous gibbering shrieks of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-330691-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RA-330691--> echoing in your ears, you hurry down the slime-smeared steps into the claustrophobic depths of this sunken building. At first the alien cries of your pursuers sound hungry and frantic, like those of a ravenous pack of starving wolves denied their prey, but suddenly you realize that they are not cries of hunger at all<ch.emdash/>they are howls of glee. The <!--ERRTAG-RA-330691-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RA-330691--> are enjoying the sight of you rushing headlong to your doom!</p>
- <p>You skid to a halt but it is already too late. With chilling abruptness, the slimy stairs open up and you fall feet-first into a deep, dark pit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great alien vessel looms towards your ship, its jaw-like prow hinged open as if in readiness to bite you in half. Then, with stunning swiftness, your entire craft is consumed by this onrushing vessel, swallowed up in its great jaws. There is a moment of deadly silence. Then, in the morbid, greenish gloom, you hear a bubbling rush of icy water echoing through the vast depths of this gullet. With fearful anticipation you unsheathe your weapon, move towards the ship<ch.apos/>s rail, then look down. The surrounding sea water is fast draining away, leaving your ship dry-docked upon a long, V-shaped plinth which glistens like polished bone. The bubbling subsides, to be replaced by another noise<ch.emdash/>the sound of a great portal grinding open. Bright light streams across the deck, blazing down from an archway which is opening close to the starboard bow. Silhouetted in this light are a hundred moving forms, each man-sized and armed with a sword or a spear. A ghastly howl of anger arises from their ranks when they see unexpectedly that the ship is crewed by living men. As the first of their number leap from the arch and crash upon the deck, you recognize their form. Once these creatures were Drakkarim warriors; now they are undead slaves in the service of the Ixian Deathlord. You shout to the Lencians to prepare for battle as the first wave of undead Drakkarim comes surging forwards.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you wish to stand and fight the first wave of Drakkarim undead, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you choose to evade their attack, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and fight with blinding speed in order to save yourself from these chittering horrors.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Dentaag</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">51</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you draw your divine blade, the bodies of your attackers undergo a swift and gruesome transformation. The radiant golden light of your sword washes over them, causing their torsos to implode with dramatic effect. They barely have time to cry out in agony as their twisted remains hit the floor and crumble to dust.</p>
- <p>You sheathe the Sommerswerd and step away from the foul-smelling mounds of dust. But as you turn towards the archway that these fell creatures were guarding, you are confronted by a terrifying sight. Framed in the archway is the awesome figure of Deathlord Ixiataaga himself, the Deathstaff raised high in his ungodly hand. He has sensed the presence of the Sommerswerd and he has come to destroy it. Stunned by his awful visage, you fail to react in time to save yourself. You see a flash of white light explode at the tip of the staff and, in the very next instant, you feel agonizing pain shoot through every part of your body. Then an explosion of white-hot fire obliterates your senses and, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to the Deathlord and his staff of unholy power. Your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect239-1-foot" idref="sect239-1">
- <p>There is no path which leads to this section of the book. It is functionally identical to <a idref="sect23">Section 23</a> and <a idref="sect242">Section 242</a>, and therefore its isolation does not affect the gameplay of the book.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pray to the God Kai to watch over you as you steel yourself to meet these attacking skeletal warriors.<footref id="sect239-1" idref="sect239-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-335522-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335522--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">55</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You advance slowly along the slippery foredeck towards steps which ascend to the raised stern of this alien vessel. Every inch of its coal-black timbers are decorated with strange and intricate carvings, and archaic symbols embellish the metal rails which encircle its gunwales. Drawing on your Grand Master Disciplines, you determine that this vessel was not constructed by the unhuman creatures who crewed it, but that it is an ancient ship, built and crafted by a race of mariners who have long since disappeared into the mists of time. Closer examination of the timbers reveals it to be more than fifteen thousand years old.</p>
- <p>You climb to the wheelhouse, which stands in the centre of the stern deck, and discover there a large, glassy sphere mounted upon an ornate base of glittering black stone. A low hum and a faint greenish glow radiate from this sphere, which in turn is connected by silver tubes and strands of braided metal to the wheel which steers the craft. After careful study of the controls you feel confident that you could sail the vessel.</p>
- <p>Prarg enters the wheelhouse and announces that, having thoroughly searched the bow and below deck areas, he is sure that it is empty<ch.emdash/>no hidden enemies are lurking aboard.</p>
- <p><quote>Well, Grand Master,</quote> he continues, staring bemusedly at the strange workings of this craft, <quote>this is a rum craft and no mistake. Are you sure it can carry you to Ixia?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, I<ch.apos/>m sure,</quote> you reply. <quote>In fact I<ch.apos/>m certain that it will be safer to sail the Tozaz in this ship than to attempt the crossing in any ice-boat bearing the Lencian flag.</quote></p>
- <p>Prarg looks out of the wheelhouse window at the sunken remains of the ice-boat, and says: <quote>I hope you<ch.apos/>re right, Grand Master. I sincerely hope you<ch.apos/>re right.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skills, you magnify your vision in order <!--ERRTAG-RE-338120-->to better see<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338120--> the new enemy that is descending towards you from out of the sky. However, despite your visual ability, they are too distant for you to be able to make them out clearly. All you can discern is that they are accelerating at an ever-increasing rate.</p>
- <p>You increase your own pace, determined more than ever now to reach the Shadow Gate before either Tagazin, or his new wave of helpers, can stop you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-338694-->Sun Knight or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338694-->, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You say a brief prayer to the Goddess Ishir, beseeching her to watch over your soul as you get ready to engage the attacking skeletal warriors.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-339272-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-339272--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">55</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat and must fight these enemies to the finish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your <!--ERRTAG-RE-339798-->Kai Camouflage<!--/ERRTAG-RE-339798--> skills, you inch your way closer and closer to the two undead guards. You are less than ten feet from the great grey door when suddenly they react to your presence. They spring into animation and come rushing towards you with their spears levelled at your chest.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill15" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill15" class="pdf"/>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-340512-->Drakkarim Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-340512--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Without weapons or equipment you have no choice but to fight this enemy unarmed. (Remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you draw an <!--ERRTAG-RA-341144-->Arrow<!--/ERRTAG-RA-341144--> and take aim at the nearest insectoid. You attempt to place your missile into its eye, but as it whistles towards the creature, it twists its head and your shaft misses its mark by barely an inch. You curse your luck as the <!--ERRTAG-RA-341144-->Arrow<!--/ERRTAG-RA-341144--> glances off its shell to shatter uselessly against the far wall.</p>
- <p>There is no time for a second shot. Dropping your <!--ERRTAG-RE-341601-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-341601-->, you quickly unsheathe a hand weapon and brace yourself to meet their determined attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261"><link-text>Turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your Magnakai mind-defences to shield yourself from the debilitating effects of the evil which is radiating from the <!--ERRTAG-RE-343394-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343394-->. Your psychic skills protect you, but not completely: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">To continue, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you retrieve your <!--ERRTAG-RA-342470-->Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RA-342470--> from your pack and secure one end of it around a fallen pillar. Then you cast the free end down into the hall below and begin your descent. Unfortunately, your <!--ERRTAG-RA-342470-->Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RA-342470--> runs out before you reach the floor, leaving you suspended twenty feet above the hall<ch.apos/>s rubble-strewn tiles.</p>
- <p>A jolt runs through the <!--ERRTAG-RA-342470-->Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RA-342470-->, warning you that the pillar to which you secured it is about to come crashing down. Anxiously you scan the floor below, looking for a clear place to land.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If your total is now 0, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect126">If it is 1<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect276">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retreat hurriedly from the onrushing horde and evade them by descending a stair which leads down into the ship<ch.apos/>s hold. Above, you can hear the frenzied shouts of the Lencian crewmen as they are engaged by the undead Drakkarim in fierce hand-to-hand combat around the ship<ch.apos/>s wheelhouse. Then the clatter of steel-shod boots on the steps alerts you to the fact that the Drakkarim have not given up the chase. As they begin to descend, you quickly scan the gloomy hold for a place to hide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess Assimilance, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having heard your question, King Sarnac turns to Ardan and says: <quote>My lord, perhaps you could say something to allay Grand Master Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s fears?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Certainly, sire,</quote> replies Lord Ardan, turning to address you.</p>
- <p><quote>My lord, as Guildmaster Banedon may already have told you, the coast of Ixia is a hellish place. The ice-boat will be able to anchor in this region for seven days at most. If you do not return within this time, it will be forced to go back to Azgad Island. But do not let this cause you undue concern, my Lord. At present there is a great imbalance between the forces of Good and Evil in our world, yet upon the instant that you defeat the Deathlord and destroy his staff of power, this balance will surely be resumed. I, like my kinsman Lord Rimoah, will know the moment that the balance has been righted. If your quest takes longer than one week to accomplish, the ice-boat will be sent out once more to collect you from Xaagon.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the grand archway you discover a massive high-ceilinged <!--ERRTAG-RE-345839-->antechamber<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345839-->. The walls of this vast circular hall are lined with human-like figures who, were it not for the frigid whiteness of their skin, would appear to be sleeping while on guard. Opposite the entrance you see another open archway, this one filled by a shimmering curtain of light. You sense that beyond it lies the way to the upper storeys of the spire, to the place where the Deathlord resides.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you possess the Discipline of Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From a vantage point on a rocky, snow-swept ridge, you watch the stupendous spectacle that is the fall of Xaagon. One by one, its walls, buildings, and crystal towers implode and collapse until less than a handful remain. When the destruction is over, the black skies brighten and the fierce electrical storms abate. For the first time in ten thousand years, sunlight pierces the perpetual cloud cover of Ixia and brings warmth to this frozen land.</p>
- <p>Greatly heartened by the success of your mission, you set off westwards and retrace your original route through the mountains to the ice-caverns on the southern coast. When you arrive there, you are greeted by an unmoving tableaux of skeletal warriors, each one frozen in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-347418-->action they were performing<!--/ERRTAG-RE-347418--> at the time of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s destruction. You are eager to return to Fort Azgad as soon as possible, and to this end, you descend to the underground lake where the Ixian ice-boats are moored.</p>
- <choice idref="sect162"><link-text>Turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You swivel the pantard around and pull the firing lever. The heavy iron bolt screeches through the air towards the great glassy sphere. However, moments before impact, the target is suddenly blocked by a host of undead warriors that come surging out of the wheelhouse. The bolt rips through their densely-packed ranks, shattering more than a dozen skeletal bodies, but in so doing it is deflected from its chosen target; the sphere survives intact. Before Prarg can reload the pantard, a shimmering metallic plate rises up from out of the decking and blocks the sphere from your sight.</p>
- <p><quote>It<ch.apos/>s no good!</quote> you shout to Prarg. <quote>We<ch.apos/>ll need more than a pantard to repel this dark tide.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Look there, Grand Master!</quote> retorts Prarg. He is pointing to the Lencian ice-boat and his face is blanched with shock. The invading undead have begun to swarm aboard the vessel and it is clear by their actions that they intend to destroy and sink it.</p>
- <p><quote>Stay here, Prarg, and cover me with the pantard!</quote> you cry, as you turn and run for the stairs. <quote>They must be stopped!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you deal Tagazin your single, fatal blow, his body shatters into a million frozen pieces which cascade like an opaque crystal waterfall to the ground. You step back from his smashed remains and look skywards to see the second wave of Lavas come screaming out of the clouds. The sight makes you take to your heels. You run the remaining few yards towards the Shadow Gate and, before the leading Lavas can block your path, you dive headlong into its spinning core.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lower your head and tug your cloak closer about your shoulders as you climb stoically towards the distant cave. You are within a few dozen yards of its inviting entrance when suddenly a crackling arc of lightning streaks down and hits you between the shoulder blades. The impact burns a hole clean through your Backpack and hurls you face-first into the snow and ice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, and have reached the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-358087-->Sun Thane<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358087-->, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Hold, fell demon!</quote> you shout, hoping to arrest his determined advance, but Tagazin merely sneers with disdain at your command. He stalks closer and you see knife-sharp talons extending from his hairless paws. From the gruesome expression on his face, clearly he is relishing the thought of rending you limb from limb. As you reach for your weapon, you consider using your psychic skills to <!--ERRTAG-RE-351282-->preempt<!--/ERRTAG-RE-351282--> his imminent attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you possess Kai-surge, and have attained the rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-351460-->Sun Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-351460-->, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you possess Kai-surge but have yet to attain this level of <!--ERRTAG-RE-351657-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-351657-->, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you do not possess Kai-surge, or decide against using this Discipline, <link-text>turn instead to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steer the ship cautiously along a string of narrow fjords which cut an uncertain route through this treacherous field of icebergs. Your hands, slick with nervous sweat, grip the wheel tightly and inch it back and forth in response to the pilot<ch.apos/>s frantic signals. It is a gruelling ordeal which takes its toll on the nerves of all aboard. Every few minutes your vision is obscured by gusts of powdery snow which swirl across the deck, blown down from the tops of the surrounding ice cliffs. During one of these fierce blasts you lose sight of the pilot and are forced to rely solely upon your Kai <!--ERRTAG-RE-352660-->instincts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-352660--> to see you through.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the incessant howl of the wind is accompanied by the tortured screech of the hull as it skims a bank of submerged ice. The impact sends the ship careering violently to port and hurls you head-first against the wall of the wheelhouse: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">To continue, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive over a wall and across a mound of ice and rubble in order to evade the creatures. Then, as you spring to your feet and sprint away, you draw on your Magnakai skills of camouflage and psychic defence to increase your chances further. It is a wise move; the black-robed horrors give chase but they soon lose your trail as you make your way deeper into the ruins of Xaagon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to avoid the onrushing <!--ERRTAG-RE-353910-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353910--> but your reactions are too slow. He catches you with the tip of his spiked helm and you feel agonizing pain shoot through your body. Then an explosion of a white-hot fire obliterates your senses and, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to a helm of power, forged and fashioned by the Dark God Naar. Your life and your quest end here on the Plane of Darkness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Patiently you attempt to manipulate the lock mechanism using the power of your mind alone. Your patience is finally rewarded by a loud <!--ERRTAG-RE-345610--><onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia><!--/ERRTAG-RE-345610-->, and the ice-caked door creaks slowly open.</p>
- <p>Beyond it you see a dark and empty corridor. Before leaving the cell you pause for a few moments to use your skill of Nexus once more, in an attempt to determine the location of your missing weapons and equipment. You sense they are distant but, guided by these feelings, you enter the corridor and go in search of them.</p>
- <p>The dingy corridor wends its way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You explore a maze of empty holds, where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through low-ceilinged chambers that, despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. At length your search ends at a great grey door which is guarded by two undead Drakkarim warriors, armed with spears. The noises you heard earlier have now ceased, and so has the movement of the vessel; you sense that this craft is no longer at sea.</p>
- <p>From the cover of a curving crystal bulkhead, you spy upon the Drakkarim guards while you consider your next move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to attack the guards with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you choose instead to use your Magnakai mind Disciplines upon the guards, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With the hideous gibbering shrieks of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-356286-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RA-356286--> echoing in your ears, you hurry down the slime-smeared steps into the claustrophobic depths of this sunken building. At first the alien cries of your pursuers sound hungry and frantic, like those of a ravenous pack of starving wolves, but suddenly you realize that they are not cries of hunger at all<ch.emdash/>they are howls of glee. The <!--ERRTAG-RA-356286-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RA-356286--> are enjoying the sight of you rushing headlong to your doom!</p>
- <p>You skid to a halt but it is already too late. With chilling abruptness, the slimy stairs open up and you fall feet-first into a deep, dark pit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the first line of screeching Drakkarim hurl themselves forwards, you advance to meet their attack, your weapon dealing them destruction in a wide arc. Resistance meets your weapon<ch.apos/>s keen edge, though it is not the touch of armour or flesh. Your powerful blows shear through Drakkarim bodies with the sickening feel of clinging jelly. It is as if you are fighting against a horde of bloodless phantoms possessed of a rubbery strength in their rotting, wasted limbs. The first line falls, but a second is poised ready to throw itself upon you with a mindless fury.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-357783-->Drakkarim Marines<!--/ERRTAG-RE-357783--> (undead)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These undead beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you win the combat in five <!--ERRTAG-RE-358153-->rounds or less<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358153-->, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If the combat lasts for six <!--ERRTAG-RE-358321-->rounds or longer<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358321-->, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When the insectoids come to within a body<ch.apos/>s length of where you stand, suddenly their shiny black shells sprout masses of razor-sharp spines. The leading creature, the one who survived your <!--ERRTAG-RE-358755-->Bow fire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358755-->, emits a high-pitched screech; it is the signal to attack.</p>
- <p>As one, the creatures leap into the air and fall upon you from above. Desperately you twist and dodge to avoid being crushed beneath their heavy, spiky bodies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai Mastery warns you that the rod is ready to discharge another blast of energy. If you touch this sorcerous weapon, it is you who will be the victim of the blast.</p>
- <p>Aware of the danger, you quickly pull your hand away. Instead of retrieving the rod, you change direction and barge your way head-first through the skeletal warriors who are blocking the door. The speed of your action leaves them sprawled helplessly on the ground and, by the time they have untangled themselves and staggered to their feet, you are nowhere to be seen.</p>
- <p>You escape along a dark corridor and, when you are sure that you are not being followed, you pause for a few moments to use your Magnakai skill of Nexus in an attempt to determine the location of your missing weapons and equipment. You sense they are not too distant and, guided by your intuition, you go off along an adjoining passageway in search of them.</p>
- <p>The dingy, ice-caked tunnel wends its way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You explore a series of empty holds, where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through low-ceilinged chambers that, despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. At length your search ends at a great grey door which is guarded by two undead Drakkarim warriors, armed with spears. The noises you heard during your time in the cell have now ceased, and so has the movement of the vessel; you sense that this craft is no longer at sea.</p>
- <p>From the cover of a curving crystal bulkhead, you spy silently upon the Drakkarim guards while you consider your next move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to attack the guards with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you choose instead to use your Magnakai mind Disciplines upon the guards, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before the sundered remains of your enemies can merge and reform, you kick them into the pit where they are consumed by the creatures which lurk at the bottom of its slime-filled base. Then, without looking back, you make a swift escape up to the roof and hurry away along the mossy ridge.</p>
- <p>Minutes later, you come to a thicket of mist-enshrouded trees. As you pass through this eerie wood, you detect the presence of Tagazin once more. Fresh tracks indicate his direction and determinedly you set off, finding it an easy task to follow his clawed footprints in the loamy soil. They lead you through a tangle of saw-toothed briar and up a gently sloping rise. As you crest the top of the rise, you look upon an awe-inspiring sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow Captain Lanza as he races down to the base of the watchtower and hurries off along the slate-cobbled avenue which leads directly to the harbour. As he runs he curses and barks orders at the garrison soldiers who are fleeing from the quay, but they are wide-eyed with terror and all appear deaf to his commands. As you reach a bend in the road, you see the great black ship shuddering to a halt alongside the harbour wall. Instantly, a horde of undead warriors leap on to the quay and come rushing in pursuit of the routing Lencians. Their eyes burn with an unnatural fire and they howl like unchained demons as they mercilessly hunt their human prey.</p>
- <p>Lanza manages to rally a dozen of his best men to form a defensive line across the narrow avenue. With their shields overlapping and their swords poised ready to thrust, they brace themselves to receive the first wave of undead. The pugnacious Captain shouts words of encouragement to stave off their fear but it is clear to you that every single one of them is terrified. Their faces are drenched with sweat despite the biting cold.</p>
- <p>With a hideous howl, the advancing mass of undead fall upon their line, hacking and stabbing at their shield-wall with their rust-dulled blades. The Lencians fight back furiously, shattering bones and cleaving skulls, but they are forced to give ground before the pressing onslaught.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill16" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill16" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Then, from the midst of the enemy ranks, a grisly creature clad in mouldering black robes comes bursting through the shield-wall. A Lencian turns to thrust his sword into the creature<ch.apos/>s wormy flesh. His attack releases a gout of venom and instantly his sword crumples<ch.emdash/>corroded by the foul blood. The venom splashes him and he falls screaming to the ground, clutching at the smouldering stump that was once his hand. The creature howls with malicious glee as it leaps over his writhing body. It rushes towards you, its eye sockets blazing and its black claws extended to rake your flesh.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cabalah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This undead creature is immune to <!--ERRTAG-RE-366705-->Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-366705-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">You may escape from this creature after three rounds of combat by <link-text>turning to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you stay and win the fight, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you approach the curtain of light, your senses scream a warning that you are in dire peril. With difficulty you suppress your natural instincts and force yourself to step into the light; instantly a wave of acute pain washes through your body as the curtain of shimmering radiance swallows you up. You writhe in agony as gravity releases its hold on your body, and you feel yourself begin to rise: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You are on the threshold of unconsciousness when suddenly the light fades and you find yourself kneeling on a floor of black crystal, staring at the reflection of your pain-wracked face in its highly-polished surface. Wearily you raise your aching head and see, to your horror, a trio of undead creatures scurrying towards you from an open archway. They have barbed tridents clasped in their corpse-green hands, held raised in readiness to pin you to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-366442-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-366442-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you cannot, or if you choose to use neither of the above, then <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Determinedly you battle your way through deepening snow and sleeting <!--ERRTAG-RE-367034-->crosswinds<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367034--> to reach the remnants of Xaagon<ch.apos/>s west gate. This once-magnificent portal lies scattered in pieces around the open archway of a twin-towered barbican. As you approach the arch, you catch brief glimpses of the city<ch.apos/>s ruined buildings through the driving sleet. You also become aware of a noise<ch.emdash/>a low hum<ch.emdash/>reverberating beneath the howl of the wind. You pause briefly to listen and determine at once that this strange noise comes from the direction of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-368912-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-368912-->.</p>
- <p>Warily you press on towards the barbican, your eyes peeled all the while for guards. You are within a few yards of the archway when suddenly your Kai <!--ERRTAG-RE-367702-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367702--> alerts you to danger. Moments later, a dozen undead Drakkarim warriors come looming out of the storm, marching two abreast towards the west gate arch. To avoid detection you quickly sidestep into a shadowy portal at the base of the barbican wall. Here you discover a flight of stone steps which ascend to a derelict chamber that once served as a guardroom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The undead warriors carry out a thorough search of the hold, passing several times within inches of where you are hiding, yet they fail to find you; your <!--ERRTAG-RE-368686-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-368686--> keeps you safe from detection. As you wait patiently for them to leave the hold, your thoughts are with the Lencian crewmen. The sound of fighting on the deck above has ceased and you are fearful that all the crew may have been slain by these merciless enemies.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to follow the undead when they leave the hold, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you choose to stay hidden in the hold, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and throw it at the glass dome. It shatters the dome on impact, releasing a crackling halo of energy which quickly dissipates. You retrieve your weapon and quickly snatch up the key, taking care not to touch the plinth on which it lies. (Record the Onyx Key on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item, which you carry in the pocket of your tunic.)</p>
- <p>Having obtained the key you now try it in the door and find that it fits perfectly. You give it a gentle twist, confident that it will unlock this door and allow you access to whatever lies beyond.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If it is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You land badly, breaking your legs and your pelvis and rendering yourself incapable of moving. Concussed and in great pain, you attempt to draw on your healing skills to mend your broken bones. Unfortunately, before your bones have healed sufficiently for you to be able to go on, you are crushed to death beneath a deluge of falling rock and crystal.</p>
- <p>Your incredible courage has brought about the defeat of the evil Deathlord Ixiataaga, saving untold millions of living souls from an eternity of slavery in his service. So long as there is Good upon Magnamund you will never be forgotten. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for this victory. Your life and your quest end here in the Crystal Spire of Xaagon.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Soon you stumble upon a ruined watchtower where you stop to rest awhile and get your bearings. Through a hole in the tower<ch.apos/>s dull, glassy wall, you can see the wide stone ramp which services the archway entrance of the great <!--ERRTAG-RA-372920-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-372920-->. Hidden from sight, you observe the traffic of undead warriors passing through this grand archway. The low hum that you detected earlier is much louder here, almost painfully so. Its concussive vibration is so strong that it leaves ripples in the snow.</p>
- <p>You crane your neck to look at the uppermost tip of the spire, and you shiver with dread when you detect the unmistakable presence of the Deathlord. His cloying aura of evil makes you break out in a cold sweat, but you fight back this fear and resolve to gain entry to the <!--ERRTAG-RA-372920-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-372920-->; you are determined to defeat him. Patiently you wait, crouched in the rubble of the ruined watchtower, observing his undead slaves come and go. During this time, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">To continue, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb out of the forward hold and hurry along the deck to a flight of steps which ascend to the raised stern. A wheelhouse stands in the centre of the stern deck, inside of which you find Prarg examining a large glassy sphere mounted upon an ornate base of glittering black stone. A low hum and a faint greenish glow radiate from this sphere, which in turn is connected by silver tubes and strands of braided metal to the wheel which steers the craft.</p>
- <p><quote>What do you make of this, Grand Master?</quote> says Prarg, inviting you to take a closer look. You inspect the devices and determine them to be the propulsion and steering mechanisms. After careful appraisal of the controls you determine that you could easily sail the vessel.</p>
- <p><quote>Well, Grand Master,</quote> he says, staring bemusedly at the strange workings of this ship, <quote>this is a rum craft and no mistake. Are you sure it can carry you to Ixia?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, I<ch.apos/>m sure,</quote> you reply. <quote>In fact I<ch.apos/>m certain that it will be safer to sail the Tozaz in this ship than to attempt a crossing in any ice-boat bearing the Lencian flag.</quote></p>
- <p>Prarg looks out of the wheelhouse window at the sunken remains of the ice-boat and says: <quote>I hope you<ch.apos/>re right, Grand Master. I sincerely hope you<ch.apos/>re right.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced mastery, you magnify your vision in order to see better the new enemy that is descending towards you from out of the sky. As the images grow larger, you see that the leading Lavas is holding an item which radiates an intense aura of evil power. At a distance it appears to be a large metal bowl with a sharp spear of crystal fixed to its underside. Unsure of its purpose, you hazard a guess that it is some kind of weapon that the Lavas leader intends to use against you.</p>
- <p>Driven by fear, you increase you own pace, determined more than ever now to reach the Shadow Gate before either Tagazin, or his new wave of helpers, can stop you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the Kai rank of <!--ERRTAG-RE-375004-->Sun Knight or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-375004-->, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having used Brotherhood magic to assist your climb you now call on it again to aid your descent. The <!--ERRTAG-RE-375550-->spell <spell>Slow Fall</spell> enables<!--/ERRTAG-RE-375550--> you to glide smoothly to the coal-black floor. A few whispered words cancel its effect and you hurry away towards the shadowy exit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moments from losing consciousness, you propel yourself upwards and break through the surface of the lake to gulp air into your burning lungs. On the jetty, a black-clad being is distracted by the sound of a distant splash. It turns its head and stares in your direction, its fiery eyes aglow like two red-hot coals. Hurriedly you inhale and dive below the surface, praying all the while that you have not been seen.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, Grand Huntmastery, or Grand Pathsmanship, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect116">If your total score is now 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect157">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You remove your hand from the Sommerswerd and draw another weapon just in time to fend off the creature<ch.apos/>s initial attack. A flash of lightning briefly illuminates the cave and, for the first time, you see this mysterious beast: the sight is chilling to behold. Its mouth is a mass of twisted fangs and from its huge, bear-like body there writhes a score of slimy tentacles, each tipped with a venomous claw. Its reptilian head is domed and <!--ERRTAG-RE-377350-->from its centre<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377350--> there protrudes a twisted horn, longer than a broadsword.</p>
- <p>The creature retreats a few paces and howls with anger as it prepares to make its second attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ixian Mhagani</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect56">You may evade combat with this undead creature at any time after the fourth <!--ERRTAG-RE-377853-->round by<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377853--> <link-text>turning to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the floor with cat-like grace, roll over to lessen the impact, and regain your feet<ch.emdash/>all in one balanced movement. The damage you sustain is minimal: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">To continue, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature leaps from the gangplank on to the deck and thrusts the tip of its icy rod at your face. You parry its attack with the Sommerswerd and a flash of hissing sparks explode when the two formidable weapons collide.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ziog</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This undead creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On reaching the stone roof, you notice an opening at its centre which is partially overgrown with barbed creepers. You rip away this foliage, taking care not to scratch yourself on the poisonous barbs, and discover a flight of steps, thick with slime, which descend into the dark interior of the sunken building.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, your preoccupation with the stairway distracts you from an imminent danger. Suddenly your Kai senses alert you to the threat, and when you spin around, you find yourself facing a horde of monstrous shapes. Bloated corpse-things jostle with humanoid horrors and skeletal warriors whose bones are gnawed with decay. It is a ghastly sight<ch.emdash/>a regiment of <!--ERRTAG-RE-380068-->Chaos-creatures<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380068-->, drawn here by the scent of human prey. You shiver with dread for clearly you are the prey they seek.</p>
- <p>They have come streaming along the same mossy ridge that you travelled, hungrily following your scent trail. But now they are on the roof and, with frightening speed, they charge towards you. Gibbering and howling like demons, they hurl themselves upon you in a desperate attempt to slay you with fang and claw.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-380581-->Chaos Horde<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380581--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235">You may evade this combat after six <!--ERRTAG-RE-380937-->rounds by<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380937--> <link-text>turning to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon the strength of your mind to fuel a ball of psychic energy. The ghoulish Drakkarim are at arm<ch.apos/>s length when you fire this burning ball of power into their midst. There is a white-hot flash and three crumble instantly to dust<ch.emdash/>the rest are knocked down by the blast of its psychic shockwave.</p>
- <p>You raise you weapon and rush for the stairs, but to your shock and surprise, the Drakkarim undead rise swiftly and leap upon you from all sides.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Undead Drakkarim Search Party (in psychic shock)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">20</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are sensitive to all forms of psychic attack; double all normal bonuses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive and roll across the floor to avoid the onrushing bolt of energy. The massive flame-ball passes over your back and explodes at the far end wall of the chamber with devastating effect. It tears open a hole in the steel-hard crystal <!--ERRTAG-RE-382531-->wall more<!--/ERRTAG-RE-382531--> than ten feet in diameter, and it fills the air with razor-sharp shards. Yet, due to your swift reflexes, you suffer only minor injuries: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>As you spring to your feet, you suddenly see an opportunity to seize the initiative and carry the attack to the Deathlord.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12"><link-text>Turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unshoulder your <!--ERRTAG-RE-383145-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383145--> and let fly an <!--ERRTAG-RE-383213-->Arrow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383213--> at the nearest robed creature. The shaft arcs through the snowy sky and hits the target but, to your dismay, it passes clean through and splinters harmlessly against a distant wall.</p>
- <p>The target creature utters a sound that resembles a mocking laugh. From a pocket of its tattered robe it draws a silvery rod and levels it at your head while its ghoulish companions circle around in an attempt to get behind you. Reflexively you dive for cover, avoiding certain decapitation as a searing bolt of energy surges from the tip of the rod. It passes within inches of your back before impacting against a pillar of crystal, the resultant explosion peppering you with splinters: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You scramble to your feet and run but your escape is thwarted by the creature<ch.apos/>s two companions. They block your path and you are forced to take on all three of them in a desperate hand-to-hand fight.</p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Cabalah</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">56</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">54</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These undead creatures are immune to <!--ERRTAG-RE-386365-->Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge<!--/ERRTAG-RE-386365-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">You may evade this combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Banedon reaches to a small wooden box which lies half-buried on a shelf choked with scrolls and charts. He blows away a film of dust, then hands you the box and asks you to open it. Inside you discover a small platinum disc strung upon a loop of braided cord.</p>
- <p><quote>Take the amulet, Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>it is a protection from evil. You may need to draw upon its power when you reach Ixia.</quote></p>
- <p>You do as your friend requests. Then you close the lid and hand him the empty wooden box.</p>
- <p>(Record this Platinum Amulet, which you wear around your neck, as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum number permissible.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect57"><link-text>Turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frustrated by their inability to destroy you psychically, the wispy beings retreat to the far side of the chamber where they solidify into six bodily forms. They have taken on the appearance of large, spindly-limbed, black insectoids, each with a ghoulish head <!--ERRTAG-RE-386061-->from which<!--/ERRTAG-RE-386061--> composite eyes stare at you with evil intent. Chittering excitedly, the six creatures come stalking forwards, hungry for the kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you wish to attempt to evade these hideous insectoids, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If you have a <!--ERRTAG-RA-386426-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RA-386426-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect115">If you choose not to evade them, or make use of a <!--ERRTAG-RA-386426-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RA-386426-->, <link-text>turn instead to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pilot the ship cautiously along a string of narrow fjords which cut an uncertain route through this treacherous field of icebergs. Using hand signals and telepathy, you send directions to the helmsman at the bow of the ship. It is a gruelling ordeal which takes its toll on all aboard. Every few minutes your vision is obscured by gusts of powdery snow which swirl across the prow, blown down from the tops of the surrounding ice cliffs. During these fierce blasts you often lose sight of the way ahead and are forced to rely solely upon your Kai instincts to see you through.</p>
- <p>The wind howls incessantly, accompanied by the tortured screech of the hull as it skims and grazes vast banks of submerged ice. The sounds send shivers of dread coursing down your spine. The crew are also clearly terrified by the noises; they cower beside the ship<ch.apos/>s rail and stare up at the encroaching walls of ice, mouthing prayers to Ishir, their eyes haunted with fear.</p>
- <p>Then, almost without any warning, the snow-laden wind abates and the ship emerges from the iceberg field into the open waters of the Tozaz Sea. The crew give a hearty cheer, relieved that their icy ordeal has at last come to an end. One man pulls the cork from a bottle of black rum which he has been keeping for a special occasion. He takes a mighty swig, then passes it to you. Just as you are raising the bottle to your lips, unexpectedly you hear one of the crew shout: <quote>Ship ahoy!</quote></p>
- <p>Fear returns to tie a knot in your stomach as you turn and focus your eagle eyes upon the distant vessel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Twice you attempt to lasso the outcrop without success. You are getting ready to try for a third time when an excruciating pain knifes through your lower right leg. The powerful jaws of the unseen pit beast have closed around your calf, and the creature is now trying to drag you below the surface of the mire.</p>
- <p>You drop your <!--ERRTAG-RE-389034-->Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-389034--> (erase this from your Backpack Items list) and reach for your weapon. With the scummy slime lapping at your chin, you stab at the creature<ch.apos/>s head in a desperate attempt to cut yourself free from its agonizing grip.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Suggaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Kai skill detects a secret door concealed in the far wall of this chamber. It is finely constructed, virtually undetectable to the human eye, but a closer examination reveals a raised pimple of rock positioned at its centre. As you reach out to touch it, the heat from your hand activates a concealed catch and the secret door slides silently open, revealing a dark passageway beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you wish to enter this secret passage, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you choose to ignore the passage and leave this chamber by the same way you entered, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect287-1-foot" idref="sect287-1">
- <p>Kajarda are undead. (See Section <a idref="sect6">6</a>, <a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect52">52</a>, <a idref="sect103">103</a>, <a idref="sect120">120</a>, or <a idref="sect265">265</a>.)</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw and fire an <!--ERRTAG-RE-390545-->Arrow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-390545--> at the leading creature. To your horrified disbelief, the shaft passes cleanly through its chest, meeting no resistance whatsoever, and then shatters uselessly against the far wall.</p>
- <p>You drop your <!--ERRTAG-RE-390806-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-390806--> and unsheathe a hand weapon only just in time to defend yourself from these deathly creatures as they launch a lightning-swift attack.<footref id="sect287-1" idref="sect287-1-foot"/></p>
- <combat><enemy>3 Kajarda</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you win this combat in six round or less, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text></choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you win the fight in seven rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now your Kai <!--ERRTAG-RE-391657-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-391657--> alerts you to an imminent danger. You react by spinning around in time to see the speared creature tear itself free from the mast. Maniacal with anger, it leaps across the deck at you, flailing the air with its venom-coated claws.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-391977-->Ziog (damaged)<!--/ERRTAG-RE-391977--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">39</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This undead creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Several hours pass before the blizzard dies down sufficiently for you to be able to leave the cave and continue your lonely trek towards Xaagon. You reach the end of the pass where, for the first time, you get a clear view of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s dread city. Once, <!--ERRTAG-RE-392775-->millennia<!--/ERRTAG-RE-392775--> ago, this city had been the home of a brilliant civilization; today the stately crystal palaces and temples of Xaagon are occupied by the lord and host of the evil dead.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small7" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small7" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Onward you trek, through knee-deep snow and jagged ice, towards the towering walls of Xaagon. The city is dominated by a spire of crystal which stabs the stormy sky, drawing lightning from the black clouds which swirl around its tip. From this needle-sharp point there radiates a crimson glow which sweeps the surrounding landscape. It is like a hellish lighthouse casting baleful crimson beams across a dead sea of ice.</p>
- <p>Gradually, as you come within the shadows of Xaagon<ch.apos/>s outer wall, you see two places where you could gain entry to the city beyond. The first is near to the coast, through a breach in the south wall; the second is through the city<ch.apos/>s shattered west gate. Neither entrance appears to be guarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to enter Xaagon by the breach in the south wall, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you choose to enter by the west gate, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your final blow draws a hellish shriek from the skull of Deathlord Ixiataaga, so loud that it batters the walls and shakes the plinth on which you stand. The Deathstaff disintegrates in his skeletal hand and he topples backwards towards the fiery moat. Yet as he does so, his body crumbles into a plume of grey-green dust which is sucked away into the whirling maw of the Shadow Gate, together with the shattering remnants of the Deathstaff.</p>
- <p>Your victory over the Deathlord has freed Ixia from an evil which has enslaved its dead for <!--ERRTAG-RE-394654-->millennia<!--/ERRTAG-RE-394654-->. Now, at last, their tormented souls can find a lasting peace. You have destroyed a great and evil entity, yet by doing so you have also unwittingly removed the power which has kept the ravages of time at bay for thousands of years. Now, time returns to Xaagon.</p>
- <p>Eager to leave this place, you leap across the fiery moat and run towards the archway. But as you are passing through it, there is a terrific explosion which shakes the very foundations of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-396709-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-396709-->. Fear grips your heart when suddenly you realize that all of Xaagon is collapsing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196"><link-text>Turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decide to ignore the lingering aura of evil and try to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep, but you find it impossible to rest<ch.emdash/>the insidious presence torments your mind. You abandon your attempt at sleep and instead you go forward and watch the ship<ch.apos/>s mighty prow cutting its way through the foaming waters of the Tozaz: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gradually the darkness gives way to an eerie dawn which casts its watery light upon a new hazard. In the grey half-light you see thousands of icebergs ahead, stretching across the horizon as far as the eye can see. You curse your misfortune<ch.emdash/>navigating a course through this icy maze could well prove impossible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to stay here at the prow and act as ship<ch.apos/>s pilot, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to return to the wheelhouse and take control of the ship as you approach the iceberg field, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gloomy corridor gradually descends to a platform which overlooks a chamber two storeys deep. Several dozen undead slaves, clad in armour and mouldering robes, are busy toiling here amidst green fires and swirling, noxious fumes. Banks of dials and levers protrude from the chamber walls, indicating that it is from here that the alien vessel is controlled.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you strike your killing blows, the creatures crumple to the snow, their bodies undergoing a gruesome transformation. Slowly they implode, twisting and shrinking as they contract, until all that is left are three evil-smelling pools of bubbling black venom surrounded by tatters of cloth.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you sheathe your weapon and run deeper into the ruins, eager to put distance between yourself and the remains of your ghastly foes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You stare into the glowing eyes of the approaching <!--ERRTAG-RE-398057-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-398057--> and steel yourself to meet his certain attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You flee from the skeletal horde and hide in an empty outbuilding, close to the base of the watchtower, until you are sure the coast is clear. As you emerge from hiding, you hear Captain Lanza<ch.apos/>s stirring cry ring out above the noise of battle: <quote>For Lencia and the House of Sarnac!</quote> Despite the odds, he and his men have beaten back the enemy and are now within a stone<ch.apos/>s throw of the quay. You rush along the street, towards the harbour, and join them at a small flagstoned square close to the quayside.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small2" class="pdf"/>
- <p><quote>Captain<ch.emdash/>we must save the ice-boat!</quote> you shout, pointing to the ship which is being attacked by the skeleton horde. <quote>Indeed we must,</quote> he replies, dourly. He draws together a handful of his men to form a protective wall around you and, the moment their shields lock together, you move with them towards the ice-boat.</p>
- <p>Twenty yards from the quayside, you break away from their protective wall and sprint towards the ship<ch.apos/>s gangplank. You are halfway along the plank when you find yourself confronted by a wedge of skeletal warriors, armed with crude axes and swords. Courageously you leap into their midst, striking them down with blurring speed and deadly accuracy. But as the last one falls, its corpse-like body almost severed at the waist, you hear a noise behind you which makes you spin around in fearful expectation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Abruptly the ghastly laughter ceases, as if the Deathlord has seen something which has shaken his arrogant confidence in his own invincibility. Your senses tell you that it is the Power Spike<ch.emdash/>he has recognized that you possess one of the few weapons capable of destroying him. It is a realization that shocks him to the core.</p>
- <p>You move forwards, eager to exploit your advantage, but the Deathlord reacts swiftly. He utters a <!--ERRTAG-RE-394456-->guttural<!--/ERRTAG-RE-394456--> sound and, in the next instant, a massive bolt of energy shoots from the tip of the Deathstaff and comes speeding towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 1. If you possess Grand Nexus as well, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect55">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If it is 3<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect93">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You move close to the base of the right-hand pillar and take hold of its smooth surface with both hands. Then, aided by your natural agility, you begin to climb towards the narrow gap between the top of the pillar and the ceiling.</p>
- <p>The ascent is difficult, made even more so by the fierce energy of the electrical arcing. Its <!--ERRTAG-RE-401809-->radiant<!--/ERRTAG-RE-401809--> power blisters the exposed flesh on the back of your hands, and down the left side of your face: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you have reached the Kai rank of Sun Thane, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For five hours you remain in hiding, listening to the noises which echo through distant parts of the vessel which has swallowed your ship. During this period, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gradually you become aware that this mysterious craft is slowing down as if in preparation to dock. Anxious to escape, you leave your hiding place and climb the stairs to the deck above. Over the past few hours your shock at having witnessed the unholy resurrection of the Lencian crew has gradually turned to anger. You vow to avenge the souls of the crewmen and draw your weapon in readiness to attack the host of Drakkarim undead who are standing in rows upon the deck. But before you can act, you feel a shudder run through the steps as the host vessel comes lurching to a halt. There is a dull boom and then several portals open in the surrounding wall, spilling beams of white light across the deck of your captive ship. Scores of Drakkarim undead emerge from these portals and descend upon the ship like a host of hungry ghouls. You are forced to abandon your plan for vengeance for there are now far too many of the enemy. Yet all is not lost. In the milling confusion, you seize an opportunity to get away from the ship and escape into one of the many light-filled portals.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320"><link-text>Turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reluctantly you turn away from the door and descend the steps to the entrance hall below. You are still determined to find and defeat the Deathlord, but in order to do so you must get to the upper levels of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-405715-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-405715-->. Faced with no alternative, you enter the shimmering archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sense of unease makes you slow your hurried pace as you approach the shadowy opening. The low humming noise, which has been a constant presence ever since you first entered the <!--ERRTAG-RA-406231-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-406231-->, is almost unbearable now. Were it not for your natural Kai defences, your hearing would have suffered permanent damage the moment you passed beyond the two pillars.</p>
- <p>Beyond the opening lies a grand yet sinister chamber. Peering into its gloomy recesses, you observe that this chamber was constructed with great skill and care in some distant age. But it is not the rich decorations which hold your <!--ERRTAG-RE-405126-->attention; it<!--/ERRTAG-RE-405126--> is the whirling circular vortex which hangs on the far wall like some nightmarish, living mural. Your pulse quickens when you look into its spinning core for you recognize immediately that it is a Shadow Gate<ch.emdash/>an astral doorway to another plane of existence.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill17" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill17" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Your Kai senses quickly become attuned to the powerful psychic residues which linger in this chamber. You notice that several empty coffins lie scattered about the floor and, when you focus upon them, chilling dream-like images form in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye. You see the accursed Deathstaff emerging from the Shadow Gate. It spins end-over-end and impacts against the heavy stone lid of a coffin, breaking it in two. Its evil power feeds un-life into the mouldering remains of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-406351-->Ixian Elder<!--/ERRTAG-RE-406351--> lying within and, driven by this ungodly energy, the remains rise up from their stony tomb. The resurrected Ixian bears the Deathstaff to the highest chamber of the <!--ERRTAG-RA-406231-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RA-406231--> where, imprisoned in a cage of light fashioned by the Elder Magi, stands Deathlord Ixiataaga. The Ixian pushes the Deathstaff through the wall of this shimmering prison and, with a crackling flash, the cage of light vanishes. Freed from the magical prison which has kept him secure for thousands of years, Deathlord Ixiataaga takes the Deathstaff and howls with manic glee as he rejoices in his fateful escape.</p>
- <p>The disturbing images fade from your mind, driven away by your <!--ERRTAG-RE-407081-->Kai Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-407081--> which is warning you of imminent danger. A wispy black vapour is leaking from the circular stone edging which abuts the whirling Shadow Gate. You focus upon these smoky black trails and sense at once that they are alive and that they radiate an aura of evil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If you possess Kai-screen, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Thane, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you possess Kai-screen but have yet to attain the Kai rank of Sun Thane, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you do not possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, <link-text>turn instead to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The second wave of Lavas come swooping down en masse, the terrific beat of their wings forcing you and the <!--ERRTAG-RE-408080-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-408080--> apart. Shielding your eyes from the stinging dust-choked wind, you look up and see that the Lavas leader is cradling the curious spiked metal bowl in its horny hands. He descends towards Tagazin and inverts it, and suddenly you realize its true purpose and design. It is a helm of power, affixed on top with a crystal spike. The Lavas places the helm upon the <!--ERRTAG-RE-408504-->Demonlord<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-408504--> head and the spike begins to glow menacingly.</p>
- <p>Now all of the Lavas ascend into the sky where they wait to view a confrontation which is about to commence. Suddenly Tagazin, revitalized by the power of the spiked helm, comes charging at you with his head lowered, snorting gruffly like a maddened bull.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery or Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect257">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You quickly recover and take your position at the helm, yet the impact has left you shivering with shock. The crew have also been clearly terrified by the collision; most of them are cowering along the ship<ch.apos/>s rail, staring up at the encroaching walls of ice, their eyes haunted with fear as they pray silently to the Goddess Ishir.</p>
- <p>Then, almost without any warning, the snow-laden wind abates and the ship emerges from the iceberg field into the open waters of the Tozaz Sea. The crew give a hearty cheer, relieved that their icy ordeal has at last come to an end. One man pulls the cork from a bottle of black rum which he has been keeping for a special occasion. He takes a mighty swig, then passes it to a comrade. Just as the second man is raising the bottle to his lips, unexpectedly you hear the pilot<ch.apos/>s voice echoing along the deck: <quote>Ship ahoy!</quote></p>
- <p>Fear returns to tie a knot in your stomach as you turn and focus your eagle eyes upon the distant vessel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect195"><link-text>Turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The freezing winds of the abyss tear mercilessly at your body as you tumble headlong through this cold and lightless void. You scream with anguish but hear nothing, not even the sound of your own voice, for sound does not exist in the airless limbo of a Shadow Gate. You are in no-space, falling helplessly between two planes of existence.</p>
- <p>You are on the brink of unconsciousness when, with shocking abruptness, you splash face-first into a warm and stinking mire. Coughing and retching, you stagger to your feet and claw the oily muck from your stinging eyes. When you prise open your gluey eyelids, the sight which greets your disbelieving gaze is wholly unlike that of frigid Ixia. You find yourself knee-deep in steaming mud, surrounded by a hot and humid jungle of dense vegetation. Your Kai senses detect an all-consuming aura of evil which saturates this swampy land, warning you that this foul, stinking mire is part of the Plane of Darkness<ch.emdash/>the domain of the Dark God Naar. You scan the fetid landscape and sense that you are not alone<ch.emdash/>Tagazin is here, beyond the range of your vision but, nevertheless, not too far distant.</p>
- <p>A sense of helplessness assails your spirit, feeding a growing fear that you have failed your mission. Your only hope is to find another Shadow Gate through which you can escape from this nightmare plane and return to your home world. Weary and despondent, you trudge through the slime towards a ridge of firm ground which is carpeted with lime-green moss. You sense Tagazin<ch.apos/>s presence somewhere in this direction and you cling to the faint hope that he may be able to lead you to the Shadow Gate you seek.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95"><link-text>Turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From your hiding place among the boulders you watch the activities of the loathsome undead. The causeway and jetty are teeming with cadaverous soldiers who, under the direction of several spindly, black-clad creatures, are busily transferring materials to and from the ice-boats and the open mouth of the submarine. The tunnel entrance lies only two hundred yards away, yet reaching it without being detected by the enemy looks to be a near-impossible task. You are trying to formulate a plan of action when suddenly you notice a means by which you can achieve your goal.</p>
- <p>The track, which branches away from the causeway and leads to the tunnel entrance, passes close beside your hiding place. Every so often a wagon loaded with equipment trundles along this track towards the jetty, and an empty one trundles back. When the next empty wagon appears, you get ready to abandon your hiding place and leap aboard its open tailgate.</p>
- <p>Patiently you observe your chosen wagon. It is being hauled by a shaggy, grey-furred beast of burden which is harnessed by heavy leather straps. As it trundles past the boulders you break cover, leap aboard the tail, and hide yourself from sight beneath a greasy, foul-smelling tarpaulin. Through a crack in its ancient wooden planks you watch with trepidation as the wagon moves slowly towards the tunnel entrance. It enters the tunnel, unchallenged by the skeletal warriors who stand guard here, and ascends a gentle gradient to another ice-walled cavern. Several passages connect at this point from all directions, like the spokes of a giant wheel converging at the hub.</p>
- <choice idref="sect156"><link-text>Turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize the officer at once<ch.emdash/>it is your friend and former guide, Captain Prarg.</p>
- <p><quote>We meet again, Captain,</quote> you say, as you shake his hand gladly in friendship.</p>
- <p><quote>Aye, Grand Master. It is an honour to serve you once more.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Groaning from the pain of your wound, you stagger to your feet and barge your way through the skeletal warriors who are now clustered in the doorway to the cell. The speed of your action, so soon after receiving a wound that would have killed outright any lesser mortal, takes the group by surprise and leaves them sprawled helplessly on the ground. By the time they have untangled themselves and found their feet, you are nowhere to be seen.</p>
- <p>When you are sure that you are not being followed, you pause for a few moments to attend to your wounded stomach. Once you have staunched the bleeding, you then use your Magnakai skill of Nexus in an attempt to determine the location of your missing weapons and equipment. You sense they are not too distant and, guided by your intuition, you go off along an adjoining passageway in search of them.</p>
- <p>The dingy, ice-caked tunnel wends its way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You explore a series of empty holds, where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through low-ceilinged chambers that, despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. At length your search ends at a great grey door which is guarded by two undead Drakkarim warriors, armed with spears. The noises you heard earlier have now ceased, and so has the movement of the vessel; you sense that this craft is no longer at sea.</p>
- <p>From the cover of a curving crystal bulkhead, you spy silently upon the Drakkarim guards while you consider your next move.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to attack the guards with your bare hands, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you choose instead to use your Magnakai mind Disciplines upon the guards, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Intuition prompts you to take out the Onyx Key from your tunic pocket; it is identical to the one lying beneath the glass dome. You then try it in the door and find that it fits perfectly. You twist the key counter-clockwise, unlocking the door, then you pocket the key before passing through into the chamber beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">To continue, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your lightning-fast reactions save you from being run through by the spiked helm. Tagazin goes charging past, but as you roll over and spring to your feet, you see that he has already turned around and is now bearing down on you for a second time.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin (with Power Helm)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect40">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For three minutes you swim underwater towards the distant shoreline, covering more than half the distance between the submarine and the entrance to the tunnel, but the icy water and the sheer exertion of swimming fully clothed and equipped conspire to sap your strength. You are fast becoming desperate for oxygen, and you now risk potentially deadly muscle cramps if you do not surface in the next few seconds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you possess Sabito, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you do not possess any Sabito, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hurry down the steps to the base of the watchtower and sprint along a slate-cobbled avenue which leads directly to the harbour. As you run, you see Captain Lanza with some of his garrison troops engaging in fierce hand-to-hand combat against a maniacal horde of skeletal warriors. The fighting is blocking the road which leads down to the quay, so you slip into an adjoining alley in the hope of finding another route to the ice-boat. You emerge from the alley and turn towards the harbour, <!--ERRTAG-RE-419334-->only to find<!--/ERRTAG-RE-419334--> yourself confronted by a howling mass of fiery-eyed skeletons. You barely manage to unsheathe your weapon in time to defend yourself from their crazed attack.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill18" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill18" class="pdf"/>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-419963-->Ixian Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-419963--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">You may evade combat after three rounds by <link-text>turning to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Squatting upon a plinth of stone arising from out of the floor is a huge, snarling, jackal-like creature which you recognize immediately. It is the Demonlord Tagazin, the supernatural beast which you encountered many years earlier during your quest to the dungeons of Torgar.</p>
- <p>The unexpected sight of this creature, whom you fought, defeated, but did not destroy all those years ago, sends a shiver of dread coursing down your spine. Your Kai instincts tell you that Tagazin is slave to Ixiataaga<ch.emdash/>he is the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s loyal companion.</p>
- <p>Tagazin, too, recognizes you to be a former adversary. He recalls his ignominious defeat at your hand and, enraged by this bitter memory, he leaves the plinth and comes stalking towards you. Venom drips from his bared fangs and murder glows darkly from the depths of his nightmarish eyes.</p>
- <choice idref="sect254"><link-text>Turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lightning strike leaves you dazed and shaken yet you have survived it without lasting injury. Your improved <!--ERRTAG-RE-421804-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-421804--> enabled your body to withstand the massive jolt of electricity and discharge it away harmlessly into the ground.</p>
- <p>You stagger to your feet and unsling your smouldering Backpack. After smothering with snow the parts which have been scorched by lightning, you unbuckle the flap to discover that two items have been completely <!--ERRTAG-RE-422262-->destroyed. (Erase two items of your own choosing from your Backpack list.)<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422262--></p>
- <p>Thankful to have survived the strike unharmed, you shoulder your Backpack and hurry the remaining few yards towards the welcoming shelter of the cave.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146"><link-text>Turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your <!--ERRTAG-RE-422716-->Kai Mastery<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422716-->, you are able to see patterns in the ultraviolet spectrum of light. You recognize that the light which is pouring from the holes in the side of this diabolical machine is very similar to that which normally radiates from the sun, but it is abnormally intense. A tingle of fear runs along your spine the moment you realize that the ghostly rays are a deadly threat to any living creature.</p>
- <choice idref="sect127"><link-text>Turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For five hours you stay in hiding, listening to the noises which echo through distant parts of the vessel that has swallowed your ship. During this period, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gradually you become aware that this mysterious craft is slowing down as if in preparation to dock. Anxious to escape, and doubly anxious to discover the fate of the crew, you leave your hiding place and climb the stairs to the deck above.</p>
- <choice idref="sect153"><link-text>Turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terrible pain of the injuries you have sustained drags you groaning to the floor. For several minutes you lie on the coal-black tiles, half-blinded and racked by nausea, until your natural <!--ERRTAG-RE-424335-->Kai Healing<!--/ERRTAG-RE-424335--> abilities mend the damage sufficiently for you to be able to go on. When your strength returns, you stagger to your feet and hurry away towards the shadowy exit, eager to distance yourself from the debilitating power that arcs between the pillars.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint across the rubble and rush through the collapsing archway. But in your desperate hurry to escape you slip on a chunk of crystal and fall heavily against a pilaster, gashing your head. Dazed with concussion, you fail to move out of the way in time to avoid being crushed to death by a falling keystone.</p>
- <p>Your incredible courage has brought about the defeat of the evil Deathlord, saving untold millions from an eternity of slavery in his service. So long as there is Good upon Magnamund you will never be forgotten. Sadly, though, death is the price you have paid for this victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your quest end here in Xaagon.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arc through the smoke and flame towards the harbour wall and land on the quayside with a jolt that leaves you breathless. Fortunately, your agility and Kai skills save you from injury and you quickly regain your composure. Minutes later you are joined by Captain Lanza and his men, all of whom are clearly amazed that you are still alive.</p>
- <p><quote>We have this enemy beaten,</quote> yells Lanza. <quote>We<ch.apos/>ve slain more than half their number and the rest have their backs to the sea. Will you help us finish the job, Grand Master?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Gladly,</quote> you reply. <quote>For Kai and Ishir, we<ch.apos/>ll <!--ERRTAG-RE-426309-->dispatch<!--/ERRTAG-RE-426309--> them all to meet their unholy maker!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In their frenzy to get at you, many of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-426674-->Chaos Horde<!--/ERRTAG-RE-426674--> tumble headlong into the pit to be consumed by the creatures which lurk within its slime-filled base. Soon you have thinned their ranks sufficiently for you to be able to leap over the scuttling, severed remains, and make a swift escape up the steps to the surface.</p>
- <p>Without looking back, you leave the stone roof and hurry away along the mossy ridge towards a thicket of mist-enshrouded trees. As you pass through this eerie wood, you detect the presence of Tagazin once more. Fresh tracks indicate his direction and determinedly you set off, finding it an easy task to follow his clawed footprints in the loamy soil. They lead you through a tangle of saw-toothed briar and up a gently sloping rise. As you crest the top of the rise, you look upon an awe-inspiring sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Sadly you react too slowly to avoid being hit by the combined bolts of energy. As you splash face-first into the snow, you feel agonizing pain shoot through every part of your body. An explosion of white-hot fire obliterates your senses and, in a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your quest end here in the city of Xaagon.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The portal opens out into a domed chamber where several great orbs of fire-filled crystal, mounted on mechanical plinths, generate the intense light which is flooding the deck of the captive ship. You cross to a tunnel which leads out of the chamber and follow along a series of dingy, ice-caked corridors that wend their way deeper into the bowels of this vast alien vessel. You explore a maze of empty holds where the walls are braced with gleaming crystal girders, and pass through countless low-ceilinged chambers that, despite the biting chill, reek of death and decay. At length you come to a junction where the corridor splits in two directions.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you wish to take the left branch of this corridor, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you decide to take the right branch, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the <cite>Maycastle</cite> cuts through the icy waves towards the fort, a beacon flares into life, its guttering yellow flame marking the entrance to the outpost<ch.apos/>s slate-walled harbour. A Lencian flag is raised atop the watchtower and the crew give a cheer<ch.emdash/>for them it is a welcoming sight after two cold and difficult weeks at sea.</p>
- <p>The <cite>Maycastle</cite> docks at the harbour wall, alongside the iron-bowed ice-boat which will take you to Ixia. The excited garrison have gathered to greet the crew; they have been looking forward to receiving fresh provisions and news from their homeland for several weeks. You disembark with Prarg and are met on the quay by a bearded sergeant clad in a fur-trimmed leather tunic. He escorts you to the watchtower, where you are welcomed in person by Captain Lanza, the garrison commander.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117"><link-text>Turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect322-1-foot" idref="sect322-1">
- <p>The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect84">turn immediately to 84</a>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You examine the intricate lockplate and determine that it operates by psychic energy. You study the intricate patterns which embellish it and gradually you realize that they give clues to a three-digit number. By projecting the image of this number at the lock, using your psychic powers, you will release the locking mechanism and cause the door to open.</p>
- <p>The first of the three numbers is equal to the number of islands which can be found between the Tozaz Sea and the Gulf of Konkor.</p>
- <p>The second of the three numbers is equal to the total of islands which can be found in Lake Ghargon.</p>
- <p>The third and final number is equal to the number of cities that can be found on the banks of the River Zegar.</p>
- <p>Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> in order to determine the correct three-digit number which will open the lock. When you think you have cracked it, turn to the entry that bears the same number as your answer.<footref id="sect322-1" idref="sect322-1-foot"/></p>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you calculate incorrectly, or if you cannot solve the clues, <link-text>turn instead to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With difficulty you retrieve your <!--ERRTAG-RE-431671-->Rope<!--/ERRTAG-RE-431671--> from your Backpack and hurriedly make a lasso. Then, uttering a short prayer to Kai and Ishir, you cast it upwards in an attempt to catch it upon the rocky spur.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If if is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You kick aside the mouldering bodies of your foes and make to leave by the stairs, but your <!--ERRTAG-RE-432484-->Sixth Sense<!--/ERRTAG-RE-432484--> warns you that more undead are about to descend at any moment. Cursing your luck, you turn and run towards the stern section, where you hide behind the ship<ch.apos/>s rudder gear. The undead warriors ignore the broken bodies of those you fought, and make only a cursory search. As you watch them climbing out of the hold you breathe a silent sigh of relief.</p>
- <p>Soon the ship becomes deathly quiet and your mind is filled with concern for the Lencian crewmen<ch.emdash/>your Kai senses detect no living beings close by.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to investigate what is happening up on deck, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you choose to stay hidden here in the hold, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your psychic defences to protect yourself from the debilitating effect of the evil which is radiating from the <!--ERRTAG-RE-435199-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-435199-->. Yet, even so, you do not escape some discomfort and pain: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">To continue, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced mastery, you reduce your body weight to a minimum before stepping into the gaping hole. You fall through the dust-choked air to land on the floor of the hall, fifty feet below. On landing you weigh little more than a domestic cat, yet the speed and shock of impact is still rough enough to strain your ankles and force the breath from your lungs: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">To continue, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Finally the lock surrenders to your blows and the heavy portal creaks ajar. Immediately you are greeted by a blast of frozen air as you push open the door and step out on to a viewing platform which is fixed to the outer metallic skin of this huge alien submarine. Away to your right you can see a line of ice-boats at anchor at the lake<ch.apos/>s edge, and to your left you notice a column of skeletal warriors. These are being led by a black-robed Cabalah, marching in mechanical fashion along the jetty towards the mouth of a tunnel which leads out of the vast ice cavern. Your keen Kai senses tell you that you have arrived in Ixia, and that the distant tunnel leads to the surface.</p>
- <p>You commit the position of the ice-boats to memory; if your mission is successful, you will be needing some means by which you can escape from Ixia. Then you carefully observe the area immediately surrounding the submarine, and notice that there are only two ways by which you can reach the distant tunnel<ch.emdash/>by the adjacent jetty, or by entering the icy waters of the lake and swimming to the shore.</p>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you wish to attempt to reach the tunnel via the jetty, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you choose to attempt to reach the tunnel entrance by swimming from the submarine to the shore, <link-text>turn instead to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your attempt at opening the lock using only the power of your mind proves to be a fatal mistake.</p>
- <p>Inadvertently, you set off an alarm which in turn activates a powerful necromantic spell of protection. You see a flash of white light as, in an instant, a surge of radiant energy comes shooting from the hole to hit you squarely in the face. Pain engulfs your mind, to be followed by an explosion of white-hot fire which obliterates your senses. In a terrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, you have fallen victim to one of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s spells. Your life and your quest end here in the <!--ERRTAG-RE-438469-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-438469-->.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lanza and his men reach the quayside, having fought their way stoically through the ranks of the Ixian undead. The Captain, his face streaked with sweat, shouts excitedly and waves his sword. The tide of the battle appears to have turned and he seems elated by his hard-won victory. But then you realize that he is not cheering<ch.emdash/>he is shouting a warning.</p>
- <p>From the prow of the enemy ship comes a hissing cloud of fire-tipped arrows. You dive for cover and escape being hit, but many of the burning shafts pierce the ice-boat<ch.apos/>s decking and start fires in the sails. The flames spread with unnatural speed and you are quickly engulfed by flames.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you wish to escape from the burning ship by jumping into the harbour, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to attempt to reach the quayside by swinging from the rigging, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your fascination with the power of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-439820-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-439820--> has distracted you from a more imminent danger. From a narrow passageway to your left appear three creatures draped in mouldering black robes. They see you and give vent to a chorus of high-pitched shrieks of alarm. You spin on your heel to face them, fearful that their hideous cries will bring all of Xaagon down upon your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-438501-->Bow<!--/ERRTAG-RE-438501-->, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess Kai-surge, have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, and wish to make use of this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you possess neither the weapon nor the Discipline, or choose to use neither, <link-text>turn instead to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive and roll across the floor to avoid the onrushing bolt of energy. The massive flame-ball passes over your back and explodes at the far end wall of the chamber with devastating effect. It tears open a hole in the steel-hard crystal wall, more than ten feet in diameter, and it fills the air with razor-sharp shards. You are peppered in the legs by these splinters: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you stagger to your feet, you suddenly see an opportunity to seize the initiative and carry the attack to the Deathlord.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108"><link-text>Turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the harbour and set a northerly course to Ixia. It is less than an hour past noon and yet the winter night has already closed in. You share this icy darkness with a crew of six Lencian outposters, all of whom volunteered for this perilous mission. Lanza has ordered them to land you on the coast of Ixia and wait at anchor for seven days for you to return; they must wait no longer.</p>
- <p>The blackness is lit only by the throbbing green glow which radiates from the sphere. You stare at this mesmerizing light and you are gripped by a feeling of unease. Your Kai senses warn you that there is a lingering aura of evil aboard this ship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you possess Deliverance and have reached the rank of Sun <!--ERRTAG-RE-440661-->Thane<!--/ERRTAG-RE-440661-->, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your mastery warns you that the shimmering curtain of light which fills the archway ahead will cause harm to any living thing that passes through its beams. However, your senses also detect that beyond the archway lies the only sure route by which you can gain access to the higher levels of this dread citadel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you wish to pass through the shimmering archway and risk injury, possibly even death, then <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you decide to search for an alternative way of reaching the upper levels of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-443359-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-443359-->, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you leave, you take up one of the crystal swords and examine it. It is a fine blade, but one that was not crafted for a human hand. You replace it carefully in the rack before leaving this chamber and climbing the stairs to the ice-cavern. Here you wait in the shadows for a chance to escape from this subterranean complex by the only other exit<ch.emdash/>the open archway in the east wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>An hour passes before the arched entrance becomes devoid of undead slaves. Steeling yourself for the awesome task ahead, you slip away from the ruins of the watchtower and hurry up the ramp towards the open, empty archway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge, you cast a powerful blast of psychic energy at the two guards in the hope of disrupting the power that controls them. Unfortunately, your attack is deflected by an invisible shield, a magical protection which has been placed upon these two guards by a powerful necromantic sorcerer. Alerted psychically to your presence, the undead Drakkarim guards suddenly spring into action and come rushing towards your hiding place with their spears raised.</p>
- <combat><enemy><!--ERRTAG-RE-443372-->Drakkarim Undead<!--/ERRTAG-RE-443372--></enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Without weapons or equipment you have no choice but to fight these foes bare-handed. (Remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon your mastery to repel the unseen creature which is circling around your legs. To your dismay, however, the creature does not respond as you would wish. Pain knifes through your lower right leg as the powerful jaws of this unseen beast clamp around your calf in an attempt to drag you below the surface of the bog. Desperately you stab with your weapon at the creature<ch.apos/>s head in an attempt to cut yourself free from its agonizing grip.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Suggaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">44</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Several hours pass before the blizzard dies down sufficiently for you to be able to leave your hollow and continue your lonely trek towards Xaagon. You scale the mountain of snowy debris brought down by the avalanche and reach the end of the pass where, for the first time, you get a clear view of the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s dread city. Once, <!--ERRTAG-RE-444244-->millennia<!--/ERRTAG-RE-444244--> ago, this city had been the home of a brilliant civilization; today the stately crystal places and temples of Xaagon are occupied by the evil dead.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-small7" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-small7" class="pdf"/>
- <p>Onward you trek, through knee-deep snow and jagged ice, towards the towering walls of Xaagon. The city is dominated by a spire of crystal which stabs the stormy sky, drawing lightning from the black clouds which swirl around its tip. From this needle-sharp point there radiates a crimson glow which sweeps the surrounding landscape. It is like a hellish lighthouse, casting its baleful crimson beams across a landscape that has frozen to death.</p>
- <p>Gradually, as you come within the shadows of Xaagon<ch.apos/>s outer wall, you see two places where you could gain entry to the city beyond. The first is through a breach in the south wall, near to the coast; the second is through the city<ch.apos/>s shattered west gate. Neither entrance appears to be guarded.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you wish to enter Xaagon by the breach in the south wall, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If you choose to enter by the west gate, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>You need have no fear, Banedon,</quote> you reply, unsheathing the sun-sword, <quote>for you know that I possess such a weapon<ch.emdash/>the Sommerswerd.</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon stares at the shimmering golden blade and calmly nods his head. <quote>Yes, Grand Master. Your divine sword is ideally crafted for the task, but you must use it with discretion. Unsheathed, the Sommerswerd radiates a powerful aura of goodness<ch.emdash/>in the darkness of Ixia, such power would be like a blazing beacon. It could readily alert the Deathlord to your presence.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you possess a <!--ERRTAG-RE-447186-->Korlinium Scabbard<!--/ERRTAG-RE-447186-->, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lanza orders his men to arm themselves with warhammers from a nearby hut.</p>
- <p><quote>Normally my men use these to break up harbour ice in the dead of winter,</quote> he says, as together you help to distribute the heavy two-handed hammers among the garrison, <quote>but now they can be put to good use smashing up the bones of our foes!</quote></p>
- <p>Freshly equipped and fired by the taste of victory, Lanza and his men set about hammering the remnants of the attacking enemy. They drive them all the way back to their ship, literally shattering all who dare stand in their way. Within the hour the outpost is secured<ch.emdash/>the enemy have been destroyed.</p>
- <p>You survey the aftermath of the battle with mixed emotions. You feel elated at having helped Lanza to win, but the ice-boat, which was to have conveyed you to Ixia, is now a burned wreck lying at the bottom of the harbour. All that can be seen of it is a few feet of its <!--ERRTAG-RE-449135-->mainmast<!--/ERRTAG-RE-449135--> protruding at an angle above the surface of the sea. As you stare at this blackened masthead, you are joined by Captain Prarg.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill19" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill19" class="pdf"/>
- <p><quote>What in Ishir<ch.apos/>s name can we do, Grand Master?</quote> he says, staring dejectedly at the icy water which is swirling in eddies around the submerged wreck. <quote>That ice-boat was the only vessel capable of transporting you to Ixia.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Never fear, Prarg,</quote> you reply, confidently. <quote>I<ch.apos/>ve just had an idea that could be the answer to our problem.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your golden blade and its goodly light washes over the <!--ERRTAG-RE-449754-->Demonlord<ch.apos/>s<!--/ERRTAG-RE-449754--> unlovely form. He growls fearfully, as if weakened by its radiant power, yet he does not lose his determination to attack.</p>
- <p>With a hellish howl, he launches himself through the air at you, his clawed paws outstretched in eager readiness to tear at your flesh.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Demonlord Tagazin</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">60</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This being is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168"><!--ERRTAG-RE-450504-->If you reduce Tagazin<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 25 or less at any time during this fight<!--/ERRTAG-RE-450504-->, do not continue. <link-text>Turn instead to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite all your attempts at opening the lock, the mechanism remains defiantly immobile. The effort expended in the attempt also leaves you feeling weakened and frustrated: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You pass the following hour in quiet discomfort listening to the dull and distant noises which echo through the walls of this strange vessel. Then you detect the sound of approaching footsteps and your spirits suddenly rise<ch.emdash/>at last this could be your chance to effect an escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="sect343-1-foot" idref="sect343-1">
- <p>It is impossible to reconcile the statement that the native Ixians reigned <quote>in the time of the Old Kingdoms</quote> with the timeline presented in <cite><a href="&link.tmc;">The Magnamund Companion</a></cite>, <quote>Magnamund Then and Now</quote>. According to that book, the Ixians must have been destroyed long before the Age of the Old Kingdoms.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you turn and hurry down the stone staircase. The Drakkarim patrol you sighted earlier is nowhere to be seen, enabling you to leave the barbican and enter Xaagon without further confrontation.</p>
- <p>Warily you trek through the awesome ruins of this age-old city, where once, in the time of the Old Kingdoms, a proud and mighty race reigned supreme.<footref id="sect343-1" idref="sect343-1-foot"/> You have just passed a derelict mausoleum when you are forced to halt and hide from a passing troop of Ixian warriors. You watch as they march swiftly along an ice-choked avenue towards a plaza that is dominated <!--ERRTAG-RE-452103-->by a huge frozen fountain<!--/ERRTAG-RE-452103-->. Beyond the fountain<ch.apos/>s solid plume of water you see a broad ramp which ascends to a grand archway at the base of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-454134-->Crystal Spire<!--/ERRTAG-RE-454134-->.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you possess Grand Huntmastery and have attained the Kai rank of Sun <!--ERRTAG-RE-452409-->Lord or higher<!--/ERRTAG-RE-452409-->, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to reach his level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With rock and debris crashing about your ears, you have no choice but to risk a jump into the hall below. Anxiously you scan the rubble-strewn tiles, looking for a clear place to land.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If your total is now 1 or less, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If it is 2<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hand over the wheel to one of the crew and settle down on the floor to sleep. A few hours later you are woken by one of the crew.</p>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>ve a problem, my lord,</quote> he says, nervously rubbing the backs of his calloused hands. The darkness has given way to an eerie dawn which casts its watery light upon this problem. In the grey half-light you see thousands of icebergs ahead, stretching across the horizon as far as the eye can see. Your heart sinks<ch.emdash/>navigating a course through this icy maze could well prove impossible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to take control of the ship<ch.apos/>s wheel as you approach the field of icebergs, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you wish to go forward to the prow and act as ship<ch.apos/>s pilot, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grasp the hilt of the sun-sword with both hands and turn the flat of its golden blade towards the onrushing bolt of energy. There is a loud <onomatopoeia><!--ERRTAG-RE-454756-->crack!<!--/ERRTAG-RE-454756--></onomatopoeia>, and you feel a numbing jolt run the length of your arms as the crackling bolt is deflected away. It hits the surface of the sea, close to the harbour wall, and instantly the patch of briny water freezes over.</p>
- <p>The ghastly creature shrieks with fury and frustration. It comes lumbering down the gangplank, wielding its icy rod like a sword. Calmly you raise the Sommerswerd and steel yourself to receive its unnerving attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to attack the creature the moment it steps aboard the ice-boat, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you wish to attempt to sever the gangplank before the creature can come aboard, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utilize your advanced camouflage skills to keep yourself hidden from sight as you approach the sickly <!--ERRTAG-RE-455826-->Demonlord<!--/ERRTAG-RE-455826--> and his golden-winged escorts. However, when you come to within a few hundred feet of them, your presence is revealed by the aura of goodly light your body radiates on this plane of existence. A wave of alarm spreads through the escorts when first your aura is detected, and many of them take to the sky. Directed by a vengeful Tagazin, they circle around you and come diving down to attack you with beak and claw.</p>
- <illref idref="bw-ill20" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-ill20" class="pdf"/>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your bold decision to turn back to the jetty buys you precious time; it also saves you from the jaws of an Ixian Gybia<ch.emdash/>a ferocious underwater predator. Seconds after hauling yourself out of the water, the massive body of this creature surges past, barely a few feet from where you are clinging limpet-like to the jetty wall. The sight of this huge monster electrifies you, sending you scurrying to the top of the jetty as quickly as your aching limbs will allow. From a makeshift hiding place among some wooden crates, you look down at the swirling water and watch as the Gybia circles the jetty in a wide arc. On its second sweep, it veers away and returns disappointedly to its underwater pen.</p>
- <p>The jetty is teeming with undead soldiers who, under the direction of the same black-clad creature who released the Gybia, are busily transferring materials to and from the open mouth of the submarine. Getting past this creature and its undead minions in order to reach the shore looks, at first sight, a near-impossible task. Then you notice a means by which you could achieve your goal without having to face the predator for a second time.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kai instinct and intuition prompt you to take out the Green Gem. In the presence of the insectoids, it pulses with an eerie light that causes them to shy away fearfully. You sense that they are repelled by its power which is leeching their strength.</p>
- <p>Gradually, their insect-like forms dissolve back into wispy trails of black smoke which swirl once around the chamber before evaporating into the porous stone which frames the Shadow Gate. You are relieved to see the back of these hideous creatures, but your comfort is all too short-lived; no sooner have they vanished than a new horror appears in the chamber, rising up out of the stone floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you have ever been to the Isle of Ghosts in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect80">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two days out from the Tozaz ice-field, you catch sight of Fort Azgad. After the ordeal of Ixia, the sight of this spartan little outpost is one of the most welcoming you have ever seen. The garrison salutes you as you bring your ship to the quayside where Lord Ardan, Captain Lanza, and Prarg are all waiting to welcome you back.</p>
- <p>Warmly they congratulate you, praising your inspired act of courage and bravery but you sense that all is not well. The feeling of unease which haunted you upon leaving the ice-caverns of Ixia has returned.</p>
- <p><quote>Where<ch.apos/>s Banedon?</quote> you ask of Lord <!--ERRTAG-RE-459748-->Ardan. <quote>Is<!--/ERRTAG-RE-459748--> something wrong?</quote></p>
- <p>Ardan<ch.apos/>s face grows as sombre as his reply. <quote>King Ulnar sent word to Sarnac<ch.apos/>s court, summoning the Guildmaster to return urgently to Sommerlund. It is <!--ERRTAG-RE-467312-->grave news, I<ch.apos/>m afraid<!--/ERRTAG-RE-467312-->, Grand Master. In your absence, your country has been attacked. The Dark God, Naar, has sent forth a host of dragon-creatures to destroy the Second Order of the Kai and lay waste to your homeland. It is said his new minions are confident of swift victory for they are sure you will never defeat the Deathlord of Ixia.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I must leave for Sommerlund at once,</quote> you say, looking to the eastern horizon. <quote>My brethren and my <!--ERRTAG-RE-460493-->country<!--/ERRTAG-RE-460493--> need me.</quote></p>
- <p>The others nod in silent agreement. <quote>We will do all we can,</quote> replies Lord Ardan, <quote>to speed your passage home.</quote></p>
- <p>The news of your country<ch.apos/>s plight comes as a terrible shock. In Ixia, you have won a great and lasting victory against the forces of Evil, but could the cost be too great? You fear, also, for the lives of your young Kai acolytes. The Second Order are worthy Kai warriors but they are young, their mettle yet to be tested in the furnace-heat of battle. You pray to Kai himself that they be strong enough to resist Naar<ch.apos/>s newest champions, at least until you return.</p>
- <p>The challenge of the long journey <!--ERRTAG-RE-461256-->home and<!--/ERRTAG-RE-461256--> the quest to save the Second Order of the Kai from the deadly wrath of Naar<ch.apos/>s newest champions awaits you in the next Grand Master adventure, entitled:</p>
- <p><bookref book="18dotd"><!--ERRTAG-RE-465248-->Dawn of the Dragons<!--/ERRTAG-RE-465248--></bookref></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>Ixia <ch.ampersand/> the Hardlands</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref idref="bw-map" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="bw-map" class="pdf"/>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref class="html" idref="acstats" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acdscplz" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acitems" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acbckpck" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acspcl" />
- <illref idref="ac1" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="ac2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="ac3" class="html"/>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref idref="crtneg" class="html" />
- <illref idref="crtneg" class="tex" />
- <illref idref="crtpos" class="html" />
- <illref idref="crtpos" class="tex" />
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref idref="rnt" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="rnt" class="tex"/>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>no Kai lord</quote> with <quote>no Kai Lord</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>, and <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RA-12477-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-12477-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-6514-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>freestate</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-6514-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-5555-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote><ch.eacute/>lite</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-5555-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-6583-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Naar<ch.emdash/>the King</quote> with <quote>Naar, the King</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-6583-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-17262-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Age of the Old Kingdoms</quote> with <quote>Age of War</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-17262-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-12767-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Grand Master Disciplines, and grasp</quote> with <quote>Grand Master Disciplines and grasp</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-12767-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For ease of use, and for further adventuring, it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote> and <quote>on the last page of this book</quote>. Changed <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> to <quote><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote> according to <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 24</cite>. Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote> and <quote>opposite and overleaf</quote> with <quote>below</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>smell and</quote> with <quote>smell, and</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>(ie,</quote> with <quote>(i.e.</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-27110-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>gods Kai and Ishir</quote> with <quote>Gods Kai and Ishir</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27110-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-33045-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33045-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-34720-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>artifacts</quote> with <quote>artefacts</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-34720-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>Magador you</quote> with <quote>Magador, you</quote>, <quote>eg Gold</quote> with <quote>e.g. Gold</quote>, <quote>map of the area</quote> with <quote>map of the the Maakengorge and surrounding territories</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, and <quote>adds 3 points</quote> with <quote>adds 5 points</quote>. Added a section about Gold Crowns which reads <quote>The currency of Magador is the Gold Crown. These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</quote><!--ERRTAG-RE-35809-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-35809-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-DE-35140-ITEM--> Deleted <quote>(see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-DE-35140-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-40946-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>(eg Gold Dagger</quote> with <quote>(e.g. Gold Dagger</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-40946-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-36319-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-36319-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-39864-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>quiver</quote> with <quote>Quiver</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-39864-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-37113-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>BROADSWORD</quote> with <quote>Broadsword</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37113-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-37196-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>BOW</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37196-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-37292-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>QUIVER</quote> with <quote>Quiver</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37292-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-37805-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>DAGGER</quote> with <quote>Dagger</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-37805-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-38196-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>SWORD</quote> with <quote>Sword</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38196-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-38293-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>MEALS</quote> with <quote>Meals</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38293-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-38729-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ROPE</quote> with <quote>Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-38729-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-39131-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>POTION OF LAUMSPUR</quote> with <quote>Potion of Laumspur</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-39131-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-39691-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>AXE</quote> with <quote>Axe</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-39691-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>, <quote>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 32)</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27)</quote>, and <quote>adds 3 points</quote> with <quote>adds 8 points</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai-Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>. Replaced <quote>surface, eg:</quote> with <quote>surfaces, e.g.</quote>, <quote>Kai Surge</quote> with <quote>Kai-surge</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>arrow, or arrow-like</quote> with <quote>Arrow or Arrow-like</quote>, <quote>lava and</quote> with <quote>lava, and</quote>, and <quote>body-weight</quote> with <quote>body weight</quote>. Added <quote>(7 Disciplines)</quote> after <quote>Sun Lord</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-57185-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-57185-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-59140-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ie. lightning</quote> with <quote>i.e. lightning</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59140-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-60783-ITEM--> Replaced <quote><ch.lsquot/>Improved Grand Master Disciplines<ch.rsquot/></quote> with <quote><cite>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</cite></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60783-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-53768-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spells</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spells</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-53768-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-58099-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell <ch.lsquot/>Lightning Hand<ch.rsquot/></quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58099-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-60406-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spells</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spells</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60406-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-58448-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ie. they</quote> with <quote>i.e. they</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58448-ITEM--></p>
- <p><cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 24</cite> states: <quote>In Lone Wolf 16, the Improved Discipline of Kai-surge (at rank of Sun Lord) is not fully explained (a sentence is missing from the paragraph). A Kai Sun Lord using Kai Blast [sic] determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a <ch.apos/>0<ch.apos/> = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted.</quote>. This missing information has been added to the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Grand Master<ch.apos/>s Wisdom</a>) Moved this section of the book to its normal position after <a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-63440-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai aspirants</quote> with <quote>Kai Aspirants</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-63440-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-63972-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>urges Rimoah,</quote> with <quote>urges Rimoah.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-63972-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-65775-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>iceboat</quote> with <quote>ice-boat</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-65775-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-65937-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>seven days the pilot</quote> with <quote>seven days, the pilot</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-65937-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-65461-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pack ice</quote> with <quote>pack-ice</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-65461-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-67530-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-67530-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-68158-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>Demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-68158-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-67737-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>down-draught</quote> with <quote>down-draft</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-67737-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-71213-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Click</quote> with <quote><onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-71213-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-72055-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72055-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect7">7</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-72582-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>beyond you</quote> with <quote>beyond, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-72582-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-73183-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>it as if</quote> with <quote>it is as if</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-73183-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect8">8</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-75028-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75028-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-75303-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you cannot</quote> with <quote>If you do not</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75303-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect9">9</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-75861-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ultra-violet</quote> with <quote>ultraviolet</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-75861-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect13">13</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-81799-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sea water</quote> with <quote>seawater</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-81799-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-83432-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>undead who were swarming</quote> with <quote>undead that are swarming</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-83432-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-85157-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>item</quote> with <quote>Item</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-85157-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-84736-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rough hewn</quote> with <quote>rough-hewn</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-84736-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect17">17</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-87045-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-87045-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect18">18</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-87112-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Skark oil</quote> with <quote>skark oil</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-87112-ITEM--> Began a new paragraph before <quote>Do not fear,<ch.ellips/></quote>.<!--ERRTAG-RE-88112-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>you reply, <ch.lsquot/>I shall soon return.<ch.rsquot/></quote> with <quote>you reply. <ch.lsquot/>I shall soon return.<ch.rsquot/></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88112-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-88807-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88807-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-88888-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>attained, above</quote> with <quote>attained above</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-88888-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect20">20</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-89634-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>now-open</quote> with <quote>now open</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-89634-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-90182-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>free-standing</quote> with <quote>freestanding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-90182-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect22">22</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-93654-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>freestate</quote> with <quote>Freeland state</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-93654-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-94349-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>in previous Lone Wolf adventures</quote> with <quote>in any previous Lone Wolf adventures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94349-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-94491-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If you have not</quote> with <quote>If you did not</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94491-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-94868-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-94868-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect24">24</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-96008-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>your psi-screen</quote> with <quote>your Psi-screen</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96008-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-96797-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>head in which</quote> with <quote>head from which</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-96797-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-97640-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-97640-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect26">26</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-98551-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-98551-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-99039-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-99039-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-100780-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Slow Fall</spell><ch.emdash/>and</quote> with <quote>spell <spell>Slow Fall</spell> and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-100780-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-101182-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai camouflage</quote> with <quote>Kai Camouflage</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-101182-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect32">32</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-103910-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>free-standing</quote> with <quote>freestanding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-103910-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-109630-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>two directions</quote> with <quote>two directions.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-109630-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect35">35</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-111090-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Mindblast and Kai-surge</quote> with <quote>Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111090-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-107138-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>zigzaging</quote> with <quote>zigzagging</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-107138-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-108002-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-108002-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect38">38</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-109561-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-109561-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-110397-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-110397-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-111096-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>splutters, <ch.lsquot/>it<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>splutters. <ch.lsquot/>It<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111096-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-111431-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Upon the instant</quote> with <quote>At the instant</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111431-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-111723-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>Demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-111723-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect42">42</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-113672-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-113672-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-118529-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Battlespell</quote> with <quote>battle-spell</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-118529-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-118714-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>power word<ch.emdash/>Gloar!<ch.emdash/>at</quote> with <quote>power word <spell>Gloar!</spell> at</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-118714-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-120076-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>battle cry</quote> with <quote>battle-cry</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-120076-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-122808-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-122808-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-125276-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125276-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect53">53</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-125862-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Strength</spell><ch.emdash/>upon</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Strength</spell> upon</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125862-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-125957-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-125957-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-126227-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-126227-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-127225-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-127225-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-128699-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-128699-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-128759-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Crack!</quote> with <quote><onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-128759-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-130610-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>minions you</quote> with <quote>minions, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-130610-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Moved the choice to use Telegnosis to the first position in the list. <!--ERRTAG-RE-133768-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-133768-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-135239-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Sense Evil</spell><ch.emdash/>you</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Sense Evil</spell> you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135239-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-135979-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>gods</quote> with <quote>Gods</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-135979-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-136066-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>he splutters, <ch.lsquot/>it<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>he splutters. <ch.lsquot/>It<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136066-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-136622-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-136622-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-137114-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-137114-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-138321-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Backpack items</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-138321-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect66">66</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-141180-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Hard a-port!</quote> with <quote>Hard aport!</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-141180-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-143354-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos horde</quote> with <quote>Chaos-horde</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-143354-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect68">68</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-144645-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>all of your Backpack items</quote> with <quote>all of your Backpack Items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-144645-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect69">69</a>) Changed the illustration from being numbered (Illustration V) to an unnumbered minor illustration similar to how puzzles are handled in other books.<!--ERRTAG-RE-149955-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>following grid</quote> with <quote>grid</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149955-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-147920-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-147920-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-149236-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>main mast</quote> with <quote>mainmast</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-149236-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-150483-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Bulkhead door</quote> with <quote>Bulkhead Door</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-150483-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RA-151246-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-151246-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-151571-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>delete this weapon</quote> with <quote>delete this Weapon</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-151571-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-152987-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>plan you</quote> with <quote>plan, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-152987-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Reduced the illustration number from VI to V (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect79">79</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-156560-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-156560-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-156436-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-156436-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-157739-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>creamy-coloured</quote> with <quote>cream-coloured</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-157739-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect81">81</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-159182-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Bulkhead door</quote> with <quote>Bulkhead Door</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-159182-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-163440-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-163440-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-163827-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-163827-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-168519-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>8</quote> with <quote>9</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-168519-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect89">89</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-166240-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>at its centre</quote> with <quote>from its centre</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-166240-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-167148-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>round, by</quote> with <quote>round by</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-167148-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from VII to VI (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-167909-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>raising a Deathstaff</quote> with <quote>raising the Deathstaff</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-167909-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect101">101</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-178944-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>korlinium scabbard</quote> with <quote>Korlinium Scabbard</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-178944-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-181803-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-181803-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-182574-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>still to be</quote> with <quote>to still be</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-182574-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-183228-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-183228-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-184244-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>galley</quote> with <quote>gallery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-184244-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-184763-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-184763-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-186556-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>unnervering</quote> with <quote>unnerving</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186556-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-186923-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>lightning swift</quote> with <quote>lightning-swift</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-186923-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-188251-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>at its centre</quote> with <quote>from its centre</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-188251-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-188994-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bonuses to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> with <quote>bonuses</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-188994-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-189144-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>third round, by</quote> with <quote>third round by</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189144-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-189640-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>simultaneously to fight</quote> with <quote>to simultaneously fight</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189640-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-189825-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-189825-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-188989-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-188989-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-192076-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>attained, above</quote> with <quote>attained above</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-192076-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect116">116</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-194896-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Kai Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-194896-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect117">117</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-195749-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>court martial</quote> with <quote>court-martial</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-195749-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-197377-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197377-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-199244-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-199244-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect121">121</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-197731-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Lightning Hand<ch.emdash/>and</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-197731-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from VIII to VII (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-202090-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-202090-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-203234-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>hurling towards</quote> with <quote>hurtling towards</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203234-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-203527-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>both</quote> with <quote><em>both</em></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-203527-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-205201-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>galley</quote> with <quote>gallery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-205201-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-206415-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>place it into your belt</quote> with <quote>stow it in your belt</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-206415-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-206849-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>in Magnamund</quote> with <quote>on Magnamund</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-206849-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-210163-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Mindblast and Kai-surge</quote> with <quote>Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-210163-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-208843-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-208843-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-210597-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-210597-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect133">133</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-209083-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Breathe Water</spell></quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Breathe Water</spell></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-209083-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-212449-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Levitation</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-212449-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-216006-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216006-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-216266-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos horde</quote> with <quote>Chaos-horde</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-216266-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-217422-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Backpack items</quote> with <quote>Backpack Items</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-217422-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-218512-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>disciplines</quote> with <quote>Disciplines</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-218512-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Reduced the illustration number from IX to VIII (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-222108-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>millenniums</quote> with <quote>millennia</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-222108-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-224359-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>free-standing</quote> with <quote>freestanding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-224359-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect145">145</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-226631-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos horde</quote> with <quote>Chaos-horde</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-226631-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect146">146</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-227734-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>infra-red</quote> with <quote>infrared</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-227734-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-230763-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ghosts, in</quote> with <quote>Ghosts in</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-230763-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-231547-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-231547-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect152">152</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-234972-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-234972-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-235533-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-235533-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-236097-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>main mast</quote> with <quote>mainmast</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-236097-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from X to IX (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-237766-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-237766-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect155">155</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-238772-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>shortlived</quote> with <quote>short-lived</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-238772-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect156">156</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-239673-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cavern; by</quote> with <quote>cavern: by</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-239673-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-250149-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Thane, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Thane</quote> (Sun Thane is the highest possible rank).<!--/ERRTAG-RE-250149-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-246098-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Above you</quote> with <quote>Above, you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246098-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-246396-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>hilt of rusty sword</quote> with <quote>hilt of a rusty sword</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246396-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-246496-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>turn to 126</quote> with <quote>turn to 26</quote> (cf. Sections <a idref="sect37">37</a>, <a idref="sect58">58</a>, and <a idref="sect247">247</a>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-246496-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-247617-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>in Magnamund</quote> with <quote>on Magnamund</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-247617-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect165">165</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-249397-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-249397-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-250051-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-250051-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XI to X (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).<!--ERRTAG-RE-259452-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>race of the Old Kingdom</quote> with <quote>race of the Old Kingdoms</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259452-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-250332-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>me my</quote> with <quote>me, my</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-250332-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-251910-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bonuses to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> with <quote>bonuses</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-251910-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-253493-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Mindblast and Kai-surge</quote> with <quote>Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-253493-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect173">173</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-259049-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-259049-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-260752-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-260752-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-264501-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>have picked</quote> with <quote>have picked.</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-264501-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect176">176</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-258103-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Levitation<ch.emdash/>and</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-258103-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-261529-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-261529-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect178">178</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-265009-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265009-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-265312-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265312-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-265801-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Special Item, do not</quote> with <quote>Special Item, or do not</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265801-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect181">181</a>) Reduced the illustration number from XII to XI (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-265861-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>down-draught</quote> with <quote>down-draft</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-265861-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-271699-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271699-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-271813-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>creamy-coloured</quote> with <quote>cream-coloured</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271813-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-271900-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sky, beat</quote> with <quote>sky beat</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-271900-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-272627-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>Demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-272627-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-274268-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>main mast</quote> with <quote>mainmast</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-274268-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-275996-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>collison</quote> with <quote>collision</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-275996-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect190">190</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-277074-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277074-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-277215-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>grudgingly to retreat</quote> with <quote>to retreat grudgingly</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-277215-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect191">191</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-278446-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>attack upon the</quote> with <quote>attack the</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-278446-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect192">192</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-280795-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>free-standing</quote> with <quote>freestanding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-280795-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect193">193</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-282679-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282679-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect194">194</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-282913-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>korlinium scabbard</quote> with <quote>Korlinium Scabbard</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-282913-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect195">195</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-285121-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cry, <ch.lsquot/>Ishir</quote> with <quote>cry. <ch.lsquot/>Ishir</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285121-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XIII to XII (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).<!--ERRTAG-RE-290089-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>hundred leagues</quote> with <quote>hundred yards</quote>. The ship surfaces only one mile away, and now is somehow approaching from a much greater distance?.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-290089-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect196">196</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-285729-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Fearing your survival</quote> with <quote>Fearing for your survival</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-285729-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-286539-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-286539-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-292491-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Thane, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Thane</quote> (Sun Thane is the highest possible rank).<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292491-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-292181-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-292181-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect201">201</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-292595-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>main mast</quote> with <quote>mainmast</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292595-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect202">202</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-292820-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-292820-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect203">203</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-293855-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-293855-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-295051-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>free-standing</quote> with <quote>freestanding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-295051-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect206">206</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-298425-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Crack!</quote> with <quote><onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-298425-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Reduced the illustration number from XIV to XIII (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).<!--ERRTAG-RE-305784-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>troop of undead soldiers are</quote> with <quote>troop of undead soldiers is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-305784-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-303096-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>falter and</quote> with <quote>falter, and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-303096-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-303201-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-303201-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-305179-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>explosion white-hot</quote> with <quote>explosion of white-hot</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-305179-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-306850-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chamber, is</quote> with <quote>chamber is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-306850-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect216">216</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-310390-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-310390-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-311030-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>fight, you</quote> with <quote>fight you</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-311030-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-307042-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/>Counterspell<ch.emdash/>and</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Counterspell</spell> and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-307042-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect218">218</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-312220-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Lavas come swooping down</quote> with <quote>Lavas comes swooping down</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312220-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-312378-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312378-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-312735-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>towards the Tagazin</quote> with <quote>towards Tagazin</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312735-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-312948-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>Demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-312948-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect219">219</a>) Removed the quotation marks around Banedon's warning. <!--ERRTAG-RE-314228-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>korlinium scabbard</quote> with <quote>Korlinium Scabbard</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-314228-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-314696-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>another weapon</quote> with <quote>another Weapon</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-314696-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect220">220</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-322048-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Dessi stone</quote> with <quote>Dessi Stone</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-322048-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-322174-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-322174-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-318810-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-318810-ITEM--></p>
-<p>(<a idref="sect224">224</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-327201-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>from which the Tozaz is infamous</quote> with <quote>for which the Tozaz is infamous</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-327201-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-321679-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>coiled or otherwise</quote> with <quote>oiled or otherwise</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-321679-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect227">227</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-323154-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-323154-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RA-325620-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-325620-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XV to XIV (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-326382-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Strength</spell><ch.emdash/>and, within seconds</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell <spell>Strength</spell>, and within seconds</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326382-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-326547-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326547-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-326817-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326817-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-326904-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>out-distance</quote> with <quote>outdistance</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-326904-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect231">231</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-328152-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>suprise</quote> with <quote>surprise</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-328152-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect233">233</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-329219-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>splutters, <ch.lsquot/>it<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>splutters. <ch.lsquot/>It<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329219-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-329854-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cover avoiding</quote> with <quote>cover, avoiding</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-329854-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RA-330691-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-330691-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-335522-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-335522-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-338120-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>to see better</quote> with <quote>to better see</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338120-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-338694-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Knight, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Knight or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-338694-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect242">242</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-339272-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-339272-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect243">243</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-339798-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai camouflage</quote> with <quote>Kai Camouflage</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-339798-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-340512-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Drakkarim undead</quote> with <quote>Drakkarim Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-340512-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XVI to XV (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect244">244</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RA-341144-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-341144-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-341601-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-341601-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect245">245</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-343394-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-343394-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect246">246</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RA-342470-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>rope</quote> with <quote>Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-342470-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-345839-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>ante-chamber</quote> with <quote>antechamber</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345839-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-347418-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>action they were committing</quote> with <quote>action they were performing</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-347418-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect253">253</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-358087-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Thane, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Thane</quote> (Sun Thane is the highest possible rank).<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358087-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-351282-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>pre-empt</quote> with <quote>preempt</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-351282-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-351460-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-351460-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-351657-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-351657-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-352660-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>insticts</quote> with <quote>instincts</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-352660-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) <!--ERRTAG-RE-353910-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-353910-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect258">258</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-345610-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Click</quote> with <quote><onomatopoeia>click</onomatopoeia></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-345610-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect259">259</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-356286-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-356286-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect260">260</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-357783-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Drakkarim marines</quote> with <quote>Drakkarim Marines</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-357783-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-358153-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rounds, or less</quote> with <quote>rounds or less</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358153-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-358321-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rounds, or longer</quote> with <quote>rounds or longer</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358321-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-358755-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow fire</quote> with <quote>Bow fire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-358755-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Reduced the illustration number from XVII to XVI (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).<!--ERRTAG-RE-366705-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Mindblast and Kai-surge</quote> with <quote>Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-366705-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-366442-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-366442-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect266">266</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-367702-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367702-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-367034-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>cross-winds</quote> with <quote>crosswinds</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-367034-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-368912-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-368912-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-368686-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-368686-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect270">270</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RA-372920-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-372920-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-375004-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Sun Knight, or higher</quote> with <quote>Sun Knight or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-375004-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect273">273</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-375550-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>spell<ch.emdash/><spell>Slow Fall</spell><ch.emdash/>enables</quote> with <quote>spell <spell>Slow Fall</spell> enables</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-375550-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-377350-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>at its centre</quote> with <quote>from its centre</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377350-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-377853-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>round, by</quote> with <quote>round by</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-377853-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect278">278</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-380068-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos-creatures</quote> with <quote>Chaos-creatures</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380068-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-380581-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Chaos horde</quote> with <quote>Chaos Horde</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380581-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-380937-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-380937-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect280">280</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-382531-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>wall, more</quote> with <quote>wall more</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-382531-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect281">281</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-383145-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383145-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-383213-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-383213-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-386365-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Mindblast and Kai-surge</quote> with <quote>Mindblast, Psi-surge, and Kai-surge</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-386365-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-386061-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>in which</quote> with <quote>from which</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-386061-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect285">285</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-389034-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rope</quote> with <quote>Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-389034-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-390545-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-390545-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-390806-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-390806-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-391657-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-391657-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-391977-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ziog: (damaged)</quote> with <quote>Ziog (damaged)</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-391977-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect289">289</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-392775-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>millenniums</quote> with <quote>millennia</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-392775-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-394654-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>millenniums</quote> with <quote>millennia</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-394654-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-396709-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-396709-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-398057-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-398057-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-394456-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>gutteral</quote> with <quote>guttural</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-394456-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-401809-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>raidant</quote> with <quote>radiant</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-401809-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect299">299</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-405715-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-405715-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-405126-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>attention, it</quote> with <quote>attention; it</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-405126-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-406351-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian elder</quote> with <quote>Ixian Elder</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-406351-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-407081-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Kai Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-407081-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RA-406231-ITEM--> Replaced all occurrences of <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RA-406231-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XVIII to XVII (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-408080-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-408080-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-408504-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>Demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-408504-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect310">310</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-419334-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>but only to find</quote> with <quote>only to find</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-419334-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-419963-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ixian undead</quote> with <quote>Ixian Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-419963-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XIX to XVIII (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect312">312</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-421804-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-421804-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-422262-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>destroyed (erase two items of your own choosing from your Backpack list).</quote> with <quote>destroyed. (Erase two items of your own choosing from your Backpack list.)</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422262-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect313">313</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-422716-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai mastery</quote> with <quote>Kai Mastery</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-422716-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-424335-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Kai healing</quote> with <quote>Kai Healing</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-424335-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect317">317</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-426309-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>despatch</quote> with <quote>dispatch</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-426309-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-426674-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>chaos horde</quote> with <quote>Chaos Horde</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-426674-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-431671-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>rope</quote> with <quote>Rope</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-431671-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-432484-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-432484-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-435199-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-435199-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-438469-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-438469-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-438501-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-438501-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-439820-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-439820-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-440661-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Thane, or higher</quote> with <quote>Thane</quote> (Sun Thane is the highest possible rank).<!--/ERRTAG-RE-440661-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect333">333</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-443359-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-443359-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-443372-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Drakkarim undead</quote> with <quote>Drakkarim Undead</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-443372-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-444244-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>millenniums</quote> with <quote>millennia</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-444244-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect339">339</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-447186-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>korlinium scabbard</quote> with <quote>Korlinium Scabbard</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-447186-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-449135-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>main mast</quote> with <quote>mainmast</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-449135-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XX to XIX (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-449754-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote> with <quote>Demonlord<ch.apos/>s</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-449754-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-450504-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>If, at any time during this fight, you reduce Tagazin<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 25 or less</quote> with <quote>If you reduce Tagazin<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score to 25 or less at any time during this fight</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-450504-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-452103-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>by huge frozen fountain</quote> with <quote>by a huge frozen fountain</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-452103-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-452409-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Lord, or higher</quote> with <quote>Lord or higher</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-452409-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-454134-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>crystal spire</quote> with <quote>Crystal Spire</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-454134-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect346">346</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-454756-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Crack!</quote> with <quote><onomatopoeia>crack!</onomatopoeia></quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-454756-ITEM--></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-455826-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>demonlord</quote> with <quote>Demonlord</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-455826-ITEM--> Reduced the illustration number from XXI to XX (see erratum for <a idref="sect69">Section 69</a>).</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>)<!--ERRTAG-RE-459748-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>Ardan, <ch.lsquot/>Is</quote> with <quote>Ardan. <ch.lsquot/>Is</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-459748-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-460493-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>county</quote> with <quote>country</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-460493-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-461256-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>home, and</quote> with <quote>home and</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-461256-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-465248-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>DAWN OF THE DRAGONS</quote> with <quote>Dawn of the Dragons</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-465248-ITEM--><!--ERRTAG-RE-467312-ITEM--> Replaced <quote>grave news I<ch.apos/>m afraid</quote> with <quote>grave news, I<ch.apos/>m afraid</quote>.<!--/ERRTAG-RE-467312-ITEM--></p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <illustrations>
- <illustration id="bw-ill1" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A horde of undead warriors leap on to the quayside.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill1.gif" width="386" height="637"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill1.pdf" width="386" height="637"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill2" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Six large, spindly-limbed black insectoids, each with a ghoulish head<ch.ellips/></description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill2.gif" width="386" height="571"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill2.pdf" width="386" height="571"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill3" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Tagazin launches himself through the air, clawed paws outstretched.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill3.gif" width="386" height="608"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill3.pdf" width="386" height="608"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill4" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The chaos creatures watch your ascent eagerly.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill4.gif" width="386" height="634"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill4.pdf" width="386" height="634"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill5" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Deathlord Ixiataaga slashes at your face with the Deathstaff.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill5.gif" width="386" height="573"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill5.pdf" width="386" height="573"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill6" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The creature<ch.apos/>s body is a mass of slimy tentacles, tipped with venomous claws.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill6.gif" width="386" height="585"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill6.pdf" width="386" height="585"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill7" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The ghastly creature comes leaping at you from the gangplank.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill7.gif" width="386" height="610"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill7.pdf" width="386" height="610"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill8" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>You see a few stone buildings around a fortified stone tower.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill8.gif" width="386" height="635"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill8.pdf" width="386" height="635"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill9" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>One of the undead warriors utters a chilling liturgy over the corpses of the slain.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill9.gif" width="386" height="595"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill9.pdf" width="386" height="595"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill10" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A troop of skeletal warriors marches stiffly towards the plaza.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill10.gif" width="386" height="587"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill10.pdf" width="386" height="587"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill11" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A high prowed ship glistening with ice and frost looms out of the eerie mist.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill11.gif" width="386" height="638"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill11.pdf" width="386" height="638"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill12" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>It is as if you are looking into the ghastly maw of a hungry sea predator.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill12.gif" width="386" height="579"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill12.pdf" width="386" height="579"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill13" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The undead soldiers unload metallic containers into the open mouth of the submarine.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill13.gif" width="386" height="632"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill13.pdf" width="386" height="632"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill14" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>A horde of bloated corpse-things, humanoid horrors and skeletal warriors approaches you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill14.gif" width="386" height="603"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill14.pdf" width="386" height="603"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill15" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The two undead soldiers rush towards you.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill15.gif" width="386" height="577"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill15.pdf" width="386" height="577"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill16" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The Lencian<ch.apos/>s sword is corroded by the creature<ch.apos/>s foul blood.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill16.gif" width="386" height="585"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill16.pdf" width="386" height="585"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill17" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Freed from the magical prison, Deathlord Ixiataaga takes the Deathstaff in glee.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill17.gif" width="772" height="565"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill17.pdf" width="772" height="565"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill18" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>Captain Lanza fights the maniacal horde of skeletal warriors.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill18.gif" width="386" height="583"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill18.pdf" width="386" height="583"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill19" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The ice-boat is now a burned wreck lying at the bottom of the harbour.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill19.gif" width="386" height="610"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill19.pdf" width="386" height="610"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-ill20" class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- <description>The golden-winged escorts come diving down to attack you with beak and claw.</description>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="ill20.gif" width="386" height="510"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="ill20.pdf" width="386" height="510"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-map">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illgroup idref="action" class="visible">
- <illustration id="acstats" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acdscplz" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="234" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acitems" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acbckpck" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acspcl" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="ac1" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="ac2" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="ac3" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
-
- <illgroup idref="crtable" class="hidden">
- <illustration id="crtneg" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="crtpos" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
-
- <illgroup class="hidden">
- <illustration id="rnt" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
- </illustrations>
-
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <illustrations>
- <illustration id="bw-small3" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small3.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small3.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small10" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small10.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small10.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small2" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small2.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small2.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small12" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small12.gif" width="386" height="122"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small12.pdf" width="386" height="122"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small13" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small13.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small13.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small6" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small6.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small6.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small11" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small11.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small11.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small4" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="small4.gif" width="386" height="150"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="small4.pdf" width="386" height="150"/>
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="bw-small9" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
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-<meta>
- <title>Dawn of the Dragons</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2006</year><month>6</month><day>8</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- [Insert blurb here]
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> [Insert year] Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> [Insert year] Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">[Insert Dedication]</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Peter Cook</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br/>Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt><a idref="action">Action Chart</a>s</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd><br/></dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grand Master lone Wolf of Sommerlund, sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of the Kai<ch.emdash/>an elite warrior caste.</p>
-
- <p>It is the year MS 5077, twenty-seven years since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar<ch.emdash/>the King of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund, have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain<ch.emdash/>the Darklands<ch.emdash/>and caused the destruction of their leader and the base of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
-
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, roost notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war which allowed the freestate armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Skilfully their commanders exploited the chaos and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
-
- <p>For sever years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a New Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well established. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against he Darklords, possess latent Kai skills and show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time here at the Monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
-
- <p>Your attainment of he rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as he restoration of he Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay he potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of he Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection<ch.emdash/>to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai Monastery and the training of the New Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded for, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose to their new-found responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of be Elder Magi.</p>
-
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the Monastery, one hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber, wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power which you had recovered during an earlier quest for Kai knowledge. In this vault, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors<ch.emdash/>Banedon and Rimoah<ch.emdash/>you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master Disciplines, and grasp the fundamental secrets of Brotherhood and Old Kingdom magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now, for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
-
- <p>In the years following your victory over the Darklords, peace has reigned victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms rejoice in the knowledge that the evil which once threatened to destroy them has been banished from the face of Magnamund. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their fleshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of the Dark God Naar come in many guises and there are those upon Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
-
- <p>Already your new-found skills have been tested against Naar<ch.apos/>s agents and you have, on each occasion, acquitted yourself admirably. But your continuing victories against his minions have enraged the Dark God and inflamed his lust for vengeance. One such minion, the powerful Deathlord of Ixia, threatened to enslave the free nations of Magnamund with a weapon forged by Naar himself. Bravely you ventured alone into the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s icy domain and confronted him in a life-or-death battle in which you were triumphant. However, as you were returning from the Deathlord<ch.apos/>s frigid realm you learned that Sommerlund had been attacked. In your absence, Naar had sent forth host of dragon-creatures to destroy the New Order of the Kai and lay waste to your homeland.</p>
-
- <p>The news came as a terrible shock. In Ixia you had won a great victory over Evil, yet at what cost? You had no doubts that the New Order were worthy Kai warriors, but they were all so young, their mettle as yet untested in the furnace-heat of battle. Secretly you feared that they would be unable to resist Naar<ch.apos/>s newest champions, and so you resolved to return as quickly as possible to Sommerlund to take command of the Kai Monastery and orchestrate your country<ch.apos/>s defences.</p>
-
- <p>In the court of King Sarnac of Lencia, in the city of Vadera, you received a pledge from the King himself that he would do all in his power to help speed your long journey home to Sommerlund. Accompanied by Lord Ardan, a friend and magician from the land of Dessi, you were put aboard a Lencian clipper, one of the fastest of all sea-going vessels. This ship was bound for Garthen<ch.emdash/>the principal city of Talestria<ch.emdash/>which lies more than a thousand miles to the east of Vadera. This was to be the first stage of your journey back to Sommerlund, a destination more than two thousand miles from Lencia. As you set sail from Vadera harbour you knew that you were embarking upon a race against time, a desperate race in which the future of your country and the New Order of the Kai were at stake.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list now includes the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in this book after being omitted beginning in <bookref book="14tcok" section="gamerulz">The Captives of Kaag</bookref>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the previous books and retrieve them at the outset of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For more than six years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><ch.emdash/>and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1<ch.endash/>17), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 17. These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses obtained upon completion of Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1<ch.endash/>5) or Magnakai (Books 6<ch.endash/>12) adventures.<footref id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot"/> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over from the Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1<ch.endash/>5) and Magnakai (Books 6<ch.endash/>12) series to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Books 13-onwards):<footref id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Silver Bracers</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Korlinium Scabbard</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6<ch.endash/>12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender<ch.ellips/> means you are skilled in two<ch.ellips/> weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13<ch.endash/>20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. For example, if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature<ch.apos/>s sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell, and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-27110-->Gods Kai and Ishir<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27110--> go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<footref id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot"/></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack<ch.emdash/>Mindblast<ch.emdash/>they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title><!--ERRTAG-RE-33045-->Magi-magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33045--></title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros<ch.emdash/>the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and <!--ERRTAG-RE-34720-->artefacts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-34720-->.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the sixth of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <bookref book="19wb">Book 19</bookref>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline(s), your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <bookref book="19wb"><cite>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane</cite>.</bookref></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off on your long journey to Sommerlund you take with you a <a idref="map">map of Northern Magnamund</a> (see the inside front cover of this book) and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1<ch.endash/>17), you may add this sum to the total sum of crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you can carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safe-keeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take four items from, the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows; record them on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Dagger Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>2 MEALS Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>ROPE (Backpack tern)</p></li>
- <li><p>POTION OF LAUMSPUR (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p></li>
- <li><p>AXE (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the four items bat you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect that may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a <!--ERRTAG-RA-39864-->Quiver<!--/ERRTAG-RA-39864--> and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals <!--ERRTAG-RE-40946-->(e.g. Gold Dagger<!--/ERRTAG-RE-40946-->, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35<ch.minus/>30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection<ch.emdash/>to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender<ch.emdash/><em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="imprvdsc-1-foot" idref="imprvdsc-1">
- <p>The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery, you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian<ch.apos/>s bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes the tip of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this Discipline are able to wield two-handed weapons (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature<ch.apos/>s body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Discipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following <!--ERRTAG-RE-53768-->Brotherhood Spells<!--/ERRTAG-RE-53768-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Halt Missile</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. arrows, axes, crossbow bolts, etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2<ch.endash/>3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Strength</spell><ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.<footref id="imprvdsc-1" idref="imprvdsc-1-foot"/></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunlord">
- <meta><title>Sun Lord</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Lord (7 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, <!--ERRTAG-RE-58448-->i.e. they<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58448--> can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-blast<ch.emdash/>a pulse of intense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in one attack. A Kai Sun Lord using Kai-blast determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a <quote>0</quote> = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted. However, use of a Kai-blast will reduce a Sun Lord<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surface, e.g. water, mud, lava and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt><!--ERRTAG-RE-57185-->Magi-magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-57185--></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Penetrate</spell><ch.emdash/>This increases the penetrative energy of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</li>
- <li><spell>Energy Grasp</spell><ch.emdash/>This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-58099-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell><!--/ERRTAG-RE-58099-->, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunthane">
- <meta><title>Sun Thane</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Thane (8 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes with this Discipline are able to command an animal to fall asleep at will. Some hostile animals may be able to resist this command, but most will be affected by it in some way. The duration of effect and the number of animals which can be affected at one time will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this skill are able to conduct a Kai Exorcism. This ritual will banish any evil supernatural force that has taken possession of any goodly creature or object.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Thanes with this skill are able to protect themselves from the effects of being struck by natural electrical discharges, <!--ERRTAG-RE-59140-->i.e. lightning<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59140-->.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to alter the temperature of water by touch. By using this skill they are able to transform water into ice and vice versa. The volume of water affected, and the duration of effect, both increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to erect a special psychic defence called <spell>Mindfort</spell>. A <spell>Mindfort</spell> defence greatly reduces the effects of any psychic shock that would normally paralyse or weaken a lesser mortal.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Thane are able to use the following <!--ERRTAG-RE-60406-->Brotherhood Spells<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60406-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Slow Fall</spell><ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, Kai Sun Thanes are able to slow their rate of free-falling to three feet per second, thereby avoiding damage upon landing while the spell is in effect. The duration of the spell is limited at first, but it steadily increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Breathe Water</spell><ch.emdash/>Using this spell, a Kai Sun Thane is able to breathe underwater for ten minutes. The duration of effect increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="grandthane">
- <meta><title>Grand Thane</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Kai Grand Master who has reached the rank of Grand Thane (9 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes with this Discipline are able to call upon the God Kai for divine assistance should a situation warrant it. Kai cannot intervene to save a Grand Thane from physical danger, but he can give signs which may help a Grand Thane chose the best course of action. A Grand Thane can call upon the God Kai for assistance no more than once every month. The frequency of divine audiences will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess this skill are able to protect themselves from detection by creatures using infravision (the ability to see the heat radiating from a person or thing), or ultra-vision (the ability to detect objects or movement in the ultra-violet spectrum of light).</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes with this skill are able to focus their mind-power upon inanimate breakable objects, eg, bottles, windows, all ceramics, urns, jugs etc, and cause them to explode violently. Any person or creature in close proximity to such an explosion risks injury from flying shrapnel.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline can pass freely through the Shadow Gates. These phenomena are special portals which enable one to access other dimensions and planes of existence outside of Magnamund. Kai Grand Thanes are able to detect the location of Shadow Gates and pass through them without suffering any physical ill effects. The range of their detection increases as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to detect the exact location of precious gems, and valuable metals such as gold, platinum and silver. These minerals and metals may occur naturally in the ground or they could be part of a hidden treasure hoard. The range of this ability is limited at first, but increases steadily as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Thane are able to use the following Old Kingdom battle-spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Power Glyph</spell><ch.emdash/>By inscribing this ancient glyph (a secret magical symbol) upon a door, an archway, or even upon the lid of a closed box, a Kai Grand Thane is able to protect items or portals from being opened. Any creature attempting to open a portal protected in such a way will release the power of the glyph and suffer its deadly effects.</li>
- <li><spell>Hold Enemy</spell><ch.emdash/>Using this spell, a Kai Grand Thane is able to immobilize a single hostile creature anywhere within twenty feet of themselves. The duration of the spell is dependent upon the size and strength of the targetted creature. The range and duration of effect of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the <ch.apos/>Improved Grand Master Disciplines<ch.apos/> section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master<ch.apos/>s Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In order to find the quickest route from Vadera to your Kai Monastery you nay well have to pass through several wild and dangerous regions of Magnamund. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for the agents of the Dark God Naar are abroad and they will do everything in their power to thwart your safe return.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will find or encounter during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all,. If you discover items, be selective in what you choose to keep.</p>
- <p>Pick your four Grand Master Disciplines with care for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>May the light of the Gods Kai and Ishir make swift your return to your endangered homeland.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You set sailfrom Vadera harbour on a bitterly cold, grey, late winters day. The masts of your host ship, the Lencian clipper <cite>Saxin</cite>, have been rigged with every available square inch of canvas to catch the prevailing winds that will, with luck, propel you quickly to Talestria<ch.emdash/>the first stage of your long journey home. The clipper is a sleek and impressive craft and its departure does not go unnoticed, yet of all the many Lencians who have turned out to watch and wave it farewell, only King Sarnac and his closest advisors know the true purpose of its voyage.</p>
- <p>Once the <cite>Saxin</cite> is beyond the sheltering walls of Vadera harbour, its Captain charts an easterly course along the Tentarlas<ch.emdash/>the chain of seas and landlocked lakes which separate the two continents of Magnamund. You and your companion, Lord Ardan, settle into the ship<ch.apos/>s easy routine and, with few on-board duties to perform, you endeavour to pass the long hours constructively. With the aid of a <a idref="map">map</a> (see the inside front cover of his book) which he gives to you, Ardan briefs you on the route you should travel if you are to reach Sommerlund as swiftly as possible. You spend your time discussing the details of the route and pondering the new Evil which now threatens your homeland and the Kai.</p>
- <p>Every night, as you lie awake on your bunk staring at the tarred beams of your cabin, you wish away the miles that separate you from your beloved homeland. You want, most of all, to be with your young Kai acolytes in this dark hour, but fate has seen fit to place a great distance between you. Fearful of what you may find if you arrive home too late, every night you offer up prayers to the Gods Ishir and Kai to help speed your return to Sommerlund.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175"><link-text>Turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are deeply suspicious of the youth, and by using the Brotherhood spell <spell>Sense Evil</spell>, you soon confirm your fears. You detect that he is a murderous cut-throat and that his sinister building is home to Varetta<ch.apos/>s notorious Guild of Thieves. Forewarned of the danger, you wheel your horse about and gallop away along Spur Lane, retracing your route back to the square at the city<ch.apos/>s South Gate. On returning here, you rein in your horse and pause to consider the remaining two exits from the square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to go north Into Ladder Way, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you choose to go west into Quill Street, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is early in the afternoon when you catch sight of a grand, half-timbered bridge in the far distance. It spans a river, swollen by the recent rains, which you recognize at once to be the River Reloni. There is a mall circular tent near the approach to the bridge, and three Eldenoran soldiers are seated on stools beside it, each smoking a long-stemmed pipe.</p>
- <p>At first you consider avoiding the bridge and finding somewhere else to make a crossing, but the river is wide and fast-flowing, and the three guards look particularly weak and stupid. After some deliberation, you decide to try and bluff your way past them.</p>
- <p>As you approach, one of the guards gets up off his stool and moves to stand in your way. Casually, he asks to see some sort of identification.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you possess a Silver Seal, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout the order to fire and the Kai let loose their straining bowstrings. A cloud of arrows with armour-piercing tips, hardened in the fires of the monastery forge, whistle towards the swooping lavas with impressive accuracy. All find their target, but only one of the winged creatures falls from the sky. You see that the beast has been struck in the eye. Hurriedly the acolytes reload as the lavas prepare to land on the Tower of the Sun.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire at their eyes!</quote> you shout, and a cloud of Kai arrows are sent screaming through the sky to seek their elusive mark. This time more than half find their target, decimating the onrushing lavas at a single stroke, yet those winged creatures who do survive this deadly volley are quickly among the defenders on the Tower.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58"><link-text>Turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before your face disappears completely below the surface of the Storn, you manage to utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Strength</spell>. Immediately, you feel the fatigue melting away from your aching limbs, and a surge of renewed energy revitalizes your muscles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect327"><link-text>Turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a mighty effort, you drag your feet from the burning mire and leap head-first into the whirling black abyss of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack leader is ripped to shreds by the blast and many of his followers are left mortally wounded. But neither the sight of their injuries nor the deafening sound of the explosion deters the remaining pack members from approaching the bridge. With fear running ice cold in your veins, you spur your tired horse to the gallop in a desperate attempt to out-run these howling fiends.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bow to the King<ch.apos/>s wishes and resolve, instead, to reach the Kai Monastery by land and destroy the Shadow Gate as soon as you are able. Strengthened by this resolution, you show to the council the Sun-Crystal that Gwynian gave you, and you tell them how you intend to use it.</p>
- <p>Ulnar and the barons applaud your plan and your steadfast courage. The King places under your command his elite Guard Cavalry regiment, so that you may be able to use them to break through the enemy<ch.apos/>s line at its weakest point and reach the Kai monastery. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val, commander of the Guard Cavalry, knows where this weak point is and he will guide you to it.</p>
- <p>The King dissolves the council and, as the barons return to their armies in the field, he orders you to rest in his chambers for a few hours.</p>
- <p><quote>Get some sleep, Grand Master,</quote> he says, patting you paternally on the shoulder, <quote>you will need it. You ride with the Guard at dawn.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you intone the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Hold Enemy</spell> and direct its power at Prince Lutha. Instantly he is frozen into immobility. Your swift action has prevented him from activating the evil power of the ring he wears, a power which could spell your doom. But you sense that it is only a matter of time before your spell wears off and he is free to direct the power of the ring against you.</p>
- <p>Seizing the advantage, you call on your Magnakai skills of Pathsmanship to aid you as you begin the difficult climb out of the pit. The ascent becomes a race against time; you must reach the open trapdoor before the Prince recovers from the effects of your spell.</p>
- <p>You are pulling yourself through the opening when Lutha begins to move. He attempts to kick you with his right foot but you twist away in time to avoid the vicious attack. You tug his left leg and put him off balance; this move buys you the few seconds you need to get to your feet. As you rise he comes at you with a dagger in his hand, forcing you back towards the open hole.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Prince Lutha (with Ring of Power)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">54</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>While wearing the Ring of Power, Lutha is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you make your descent across the rocks to where the Sun-Crystal lies, but in your hurry, you slip and fall on he wet granite.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Nexus, add 2. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 1. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total is 11 or less, deduct 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect258">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect134">If it is 3 or more, <link-text>turn to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is near dusk when you emerge from the hills and see the glimmering waters of River Kinam less than five miles distant. This great river marks the border between Talestria and Palmyrion, Queen Evaine<ch.apos/>s neighbouring ally. The road descends to a border toll bridge beyond which you can see the sprawling town of Scade. The troop is challenged by the bridge warden to halt and pay a fee of 100 Silver Lune. This fee is soon forgotten, though, when the Lord Constable shows the pedantic old man his Royal Seal. With a stiff salute he steps aside and bids you all a safe journey.</p>
- <p>Scade is a bustling market town which has grown rich and fat in the years following the defeat of the Darklords. Its brightly painted buildings and paved thoroughfares exude affluence, and even its lowly street-beggars look clean and well-fed by comparison to those in other parts of Magnamund. Nathor leads the troop to an inn near the centre of the town, a fine establishment called <quote>The Lucky Bucket</quote>. Its owner, a corpulent fellow with a polished bald pate, welcomes him with open arms. After the ordeal at Pinepeaks and the long day<ch.apos/>s ride, you are looking forward to a hot bath and a large supper. However, it soon transpires that the inn is almost full and the owner can only provide rooms for five of the troop.</p>
- <p><quote>Not to worry,</quote> says Nathor, noticing the look of disappointment on your face. <quote>I know Knight Tranius<ch.emdash/>the lord of this manor. Many<ch.apos/>s the time we<ch.apos/>ve hunted boar in the hills. His castle is but two miles from here. Five can billet here tonight while the rest of us lodge with Tranius.</quote></p>
- <p>You agree to Nathor<ch.apos/>s proposal and set off with him, accompanied by three of the troopers, along a river track which heads north to Castle Tranius.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on all your Kai camouflage and tracking skills, you manage to evade the war-dog pack and escape into the depths of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place your hands on the young man<ch.apos/>s chest and, using your Magnakai healing skills, you cause the puncture wound to mend (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 1 point). However, your treatment is not enough to save him. The poison in his blood is too strong and to well-established to be neutralized by your innate Kai powers. Sadly you watch as the brave young man slips into a sleep from which he will not awaken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the hiss of a crossbow bolt in flight, and instantly react by pulling your horse sharply to one side. It is a move that saves your life. The iron missile grazes your shoulder (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) but it does not prevent you from making good your escape into the trees.</p>
- <p>You keep to the woods and head south in a wide arc around the Eldenoran settlement at Fabri. During your ride through this lush timberland, you discover the following items in the bags and blanket roll which are attached to the horse<ch.apos/>s saddle:</p>
- <p>Sword Rope Tinderbox Blanket Bow Quiver containing 5 arrows 12 Lune (equivalent to 3 Gold Crowns) Spyglass</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Shortly before sunset, you emerge from the trees at a place where three trails meet. A wooden signpost propped against a boulder indicates three directions, and distances:</p>
- <p>North<ch.endash/>Chod<ch.endash/>250 miles</p>
- <p>West<ch.endash/>Holona<ch.endash/>50 miles</p>
- <p>South<ch.endash/>Tenzha<ch.endash/>20 miles</p>
- <p>You are anxious to leave hostile Eldenoran territory as soon as possible and, after checking your <a idref="map">map</a>, you set off to the south, towards the Slovian border town of Tenzha. During your ride, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">To continue, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Did you not know, Northlander,</quote> chuckles Dorst, <quote>that cheatin<ch.apos/> is fair in Taluka? Least, that<ch.apos/>s the way we play it, eh boys?</quote></p>
- <p>Feeling a little embarrassed by their behaviour, you fold your hand of cards, pick up your money, and make an excuse that you are tired after your long day<ch.apos/>s ride. Dorst and his men bid you goodnight, and as he and his men continue with their dubious game, you go and check to see that your horse is comfortable for the night. You are busy gathering some grasses for his feed when suddenly a shriek echoes through the hills<ch.emdash/>it is the unmistakable cry of a Kraan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Overhead the sun gleams like a jewel in the clear blue sky, and the early morning air bites with a refreshing sharpness which helps to revive your spirits. A layer of thick frost covers the stony trail from the monastery, and it scrunches loudly under the horses<ch.apos/> hooves as you make your careful descent. Soon you rejoin the east road and follow it, through a series of shallow gorges, to a thick pine forest where the ground is covered with mossy rocks. Here the road ascends to a crest where a pall of black smoke stains the cloudless sky. As you approach the crest, you suddenly sense danger ahead and shout a warning to Nathor. He commands the troop to halt while you go ahead to assess the situation.</p>
- <p>Beyond the crest you see a broad valley with steeply wooded sides. At its centre there is a village and a large stone building which, when you magnify your vision, you determine to be a church. The roof of this building is ablaze and several bodies lie dotted around its cultivated grounds and gardens. You signal to Nathor to join you and, when he arrives upon the crest, he is able to identify the burning church.</p>
- <p><quote>That<ch.apos/>s Pinepeaks Abbey,</quote> he says, his voice stilted with anxiety. <quote>They are in trouble<ch.emdash/>we must help them.</quote></p>
-
- <p>He calls his men to come forward and, before you can caution him, he leads them at the gallop down the steep trail which descends towards the valley floor. Cursing his impetuosity, you spur your steed onward and follow in his wake. You have covered less than half a mile when suddenly your Magnakai sense of Divination screams a warning<ch.emdash/>the troop is riding directly into an ambush.</p>
- <p>Desperately you shout for Nathor to halt but your command goes unheeded. Then, from out of the surrounding pines, there comes a volley of arrows and spears. One spear penetrates deep into your horse<ch.apos/>s flank, killing him instantly.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect278">If the number you have picked is 0 or 1, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect183">If it is 2<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If it is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>High above you can hear the distant sound of running feet. A troop of the Prince<ch.apos/>s guards are rushing to his aid, although you sense that it is too late to save him now. Rather than stay to face their wrath when they discover their leader has been incinerated, you use the Sommerswerd to open the circular panel in the wall of the pit. As it falls away, you discover a chute which leads to an underground river. Quickly you crawl along this slime-smeared chute and slip into the cold waters, where you are carried swiftly away by the strong undercurrent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense that the talisman is protecting your body from the extreme heat and toxic atmosphere of this hellish plane. However, this talisman alone will not be sufficient to keep you sale from the creatures that are now advancing rapidly towards the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the valley lies an expanse of coarse and thorny vegetation which is alive with wild game. You stop to catch yourself an evening meal and then make camp beneath an old twisted oak (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The night passes uneventfully and at first light you resume your ride east. Shortly before midday, you arrive at the ruins of an ancient church where a signpost, pointing to the east, says:</p>
- <signpost>VANAMOR<ch.emdash/>42 miles</signpost>
- <p>You allow yourself a smile; with luck you could be the city walls by nightfall.</p>
- <p>Later in the day you see a dust cloud approaching along the road. You magnify your vision and see a dozen armed horsemen clad in ragged uniforms of green and black. A sense of unease pervades your mind; these are the colours most often worn by Eldenoran soldiers. Trusting to your Kai instincts, you steer your horse off the trail and take cover among the trees of a nearby copse.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect229">If it is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The unexpected sound of the voice jolts you to full consciousness. You look around for who it was who uttered these words and, to your surprise, you see an old man dressed in brown robes standing before you, stroking your horses nose. Immediately you recognize the kindly face of Gwynian the Sage.</p>
- <p><quote>Fate calls us together once more, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, <quote>Come, we have much to discuss.</quote></p>
- <p>And with that he takes hold of your horse<ch.apos/>s bridle and leads him across the park to a grand building. It has changed much since you were last here, but despite the new brick and marble fa<ch.ccedil/>ade you recognize Varetta<ch.apos/>s Halls of Learning.</p>
- <p>You are taken along a gravelled path to a hall, where a sign hanging over its richly-carved oak door says: LIBRARY. You dismount, and Gwynian ties the reins to a ring set into the wall. Then he pushes open the door and together you enter the library<ch.apos/>s cool interior. Countless thousands of books and parchments crowd the stone shelves of this magnificent library, marching past on either side as you walk towards another door at the far end of the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you urge the horse forwards, but the combined weight of you and Lord Nathor conspire to slow its progress. Before it can carry you through the gatehouse and onto the drawbridge beyond, the portcullis comes crashing down, sealing your only means of escape. Then a second portcullis descends, preventing you from returning into the castle keep. You are caught, trapped like fish in a barrel in the narrow corridor between these two gates.</p>
- <p>This area is called the <quote>murder hole</quote>, and, as you soon discover to your cost, it is an apt description of what can occur in this dreadful place. Within seconds of your capture, the walls above are ringed by guardsmen, each armed with bows which they aim at you and your companion. At a given signal they open fire, pouring volley after relentless volley of arrows into your defenceless forms.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey home to Sommerlund ends here, in the murder hole of castle Tranius.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You instruct Captain D<ch.apos/>Val to retreat with the regiment fifty yards back along the trail. When he has complied with your order, you move upstream until you can see, at an angle, the source of the ultraviolet beam: it is a small metallic polyhedron, studded with rivets.</p>
- <p>You dismount and pick a large stone out of the river and lob it at the device with deft precision. The instant the stone hits, there is a violent explosion which knocks you down and peppers the area of the ford with sharp splinters of rock.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If it is 4<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you feel your throat tighten, and the skin on your face and the backs of your hands begins to itch. With mounting dread you realize that you have been walking into an area which is infested with a virulent plague. Hurriedly, you turn to run from the town as fast as you can, but you have taken no more than a dozen steps when you collapse to the muddy ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess any Oede herb, or Matho<ch.apos/>s potion, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you possess neither of these items, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The death of their leader stuns the dragon herd into frozen silence, and you seize this opportunity to make a dash for the Shadow Gate. Before Naar can direct his lavas to block your escape, you reach the Gate and hurl yourself through it into the whirling black abyss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fold your hand of cards, pick up your money, and make an excuse that you are tired after your long day<ch.apos/>s ride. Dorst and his men bid you goodnight, and as he and his men continue with the game, you go and check to see that your horse is comfortable for the night. You are busy gathering some grasses for his feed when suddenly a shriek echoes through the hills<ch.emdash/>it is the unmistakable cry of a Kraan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Kai mastery reveals to you the whereabouts of the missing purse of gems. It is in the boot of the bargee, the lank-haired man who is siding with the merchant against the other. He is hoping to keep hidden his guilt by pointing the finger of suspicion at the man in the hide coat.</p>
- <p>The bargee steps away from the table and, as he tries to move quietly towards the tavern door, he passes in front of your chair. Deftly you kick the top of his boot. The blow splits the purse and scatters gemstones all over the tavern floor.</p>
- <p><quote>Why you<ch.ellips/></quote> growls the guilty bargee, and, in the blink of an eye, he draws a dagger and lunges for your heart.</p>
-<combat><enemy>Bargee (master thief):</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect199">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a gasp of air and dive below the surface, but as you submerge, you feel the stinging kiss of a crossbow bolt<ch.apos/>s tip graze your shoulder: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Having lost the element of surprise, you allow the current to carry you a few hundred yards downstream before you cone to the surface. You find yourself opposite a shallow bay in the river bank which affords you better cover from the nearest enemy trench than your previous position upstream. Quickly you crawl out of the water and slither like a snake up the muddy bank to drop silently into this trench. A dull-witted Eldenoran is swiftly dispatched with a blow from the edge of your hand, enabling you to move further along this log-walled ditch. Just as you are passing the opening to a makeshift dug-out, you sense danger ahead. A single file of Eldenoran swordsmen are marching along the trench in your direction; it will be only a matter of seconds before they are close enough to see you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to dive into the dug-out to avoid being seen by these men, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you choose to unsheathe your weapon and prepare for combat with this advancing file of troops, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your decision to stop and speak with the pilgrims clearly irritates the Lord Constable, but he bows to your authority and watts patiently for you to finish talking with them.</p>
- <p>You learn that this ragged group are on their way to Garthen. Their leader, a bearded wretch called Pospora, also tells you of a strange camp that he and his pilgrims discovered last night, near a place on the road which he calls <ch.apos/>red rock<ch.apos/>. However, this information does not come cheaply<ch.emdash/>you are pressed by the pilgrims into making a donation to their dubious cause. (Deduct 5 Gold Crowns from you <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. If you possess less than 5 Crowns, erase instead one Backpack Item of your choice.)</p>
- <p>Having satisfied your curiosity, you return to the troop and continue the ride east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect319"><link-text>Turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall among the damp, jagged rocks and gash your head on a pointed outcrop: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your sudden movement alerts a lavas to your position and it circles around Ravens Eerie until it is sure that you are human. Then, with a piercing shriek, it comes diving out of the sky with its claws extended and its beaked jaw open wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108"><link-text>Turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You abandon your horse at the derelict barn and creep down stealthily to the river<ch.apos/>s edge. After stowing your cloak and boots in your backpack, you wade out into the cold dark waters of the Storn and begin your swim to the opposite bank. The river current is strong and, before long, you find yourself being carried swiftly downstream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect232">If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 10 or less <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect177">If it is 11 or more, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A signpost on the road out of Quarlen says: Casiorn 260 miles. On a normal horse you would expect the journey to take four days, but on Wildwind you are confident of reaching the City of Merchants before midnight.</p>
- <p>Aided by a full moon and your sharp Kai skills, you keep Wildwind on a safe course throughout your long night<ch.apos/>s ride. Rapidly the miles melt away beneath his hooves and, as midnight approaches, you see the welcoming lights of Casiorn twinkling on the horizon. Using magical spyglasses, the watchful guards above the city<ch.apos/>s west gate see you coming and set their torches to fire-beacons to help guide you. The gates of the city are thrown open and, as you ride through, you meet with a thunderous welcome from its citizens, rich and poor, many of whom have left their beds to cheer your arrival.</p>
- <p>Not until you see the bulbous golden towers of the High Mayor<ch.apos/>s Palace do you allow Wildwind to slow his pace. You pass through the palace<ch.apos/>s grand arch, crafted from marble and gold, and as you bring Wildwind to a halt you see a wondrous skyship hovering over the roof of the High Mayor<ch.apos/>s chambers. It reminds you of Skyrider<ch.emdash/>your friend Guildmaster Banedon<ch.apos/>s flying ship, although the craft above is and appears to be fashioned not from wood, but from burnished metal.</p>
- <p><quote>She awaits your command,</quote> says High Mayor Cordas, as he strides down the steps of his palace chambers with an entourage of guards and advisors scurrying in his wake. <quote>What do you think?</quote> he beams, pointing to the ship. <quote>Is she not magnificent?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, indeed she is,</quote> you reply, as you dismount from Wildwind who, to your greater astonishment, displays not the slightest sign of fatigue after your incredible ride from Varetta. <quote>Pray tell me, High Mayor. What is the craft<ch.apos/>s name?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We call her <quote>Cloud-dancer</quote></quote> he replies, proudly.</p>
- <p>Within the hour you are standing aboard the gleaming steel deck of Cloud-dancer, which vibrates gently in tune to the rising power of its magical engines. The crew of Casiornian engineers set free the hawsers which hold her in place and then, with a farewell wave to Cordas and his court, you give the order for Cloud-dancer to commence her maiden voyage north to Holmgard.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60"><link-text>Turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The burning wolf-thing comes crashing down into the midst of its following pack members, scattering them in all directions. A collective howl arises from the darkness, a hellish shrieking that is filled with fear, anger and pain. The dramatic loss of their leader is more than the remaining beasts can bear, and, with a final howl of frustration, they flee from the bridge and scurry back to the safety of their pens in Castle Tranius</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The trooper fumbles for the haft of an axe which is tucked into his belt. Before he can free it, you stride forward and strike a blow with your fist that sends him crashing backwards through the open hut door. Moments later, there is a loud commotion and half a dozen angry Eldenorans come pouring out of the doorway with weapons drawn. You will have to fight them:</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran horse-scouts</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">38</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you win and the combat lasts three rounds or less <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect160">If you win and the combat lasts four rounds or more, <link-text>turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your calves and feet are badly scorched by the heat of the dragon<ch.apos/>s breath: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Gritting your teeth against the pain, you force yourself to stand and then use your Magnakai skill of Nexus to extinguish your burning breeches. Your quick thinking has saved you from more serious injury, but it does not impress the dragon. Your escape from his incinerating breath serves to make him even angrier. In a fit of pique, he stomps his massive forefoot down on to the black soil and sends a splash of molten mud and flame soaring into the sulphurous sky.</p>
- <p>You use this opportunity to retreat towards the Shadow Gate, but you do not get very far before the great beast sees you and comes lumbering forwards with his jaw agape.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a Platinum Amulet, a Talisman of Ishir, or the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you must now deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the debilitating effects of the heat and atmosphere.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush to the brigand<ch.apos/>s side and wrench the dagger from his chest, but it is already too late to save his life. You step away from his lifeless body and look around at the devastation he and his men have brought to the sleepy village of Pinepeaks. Leaderless, the remaining brigands now abandon their loot and flee to the wooded hills to rejoin their confederates, those who attempted to ambush the troop when first you entered this valley. Nathor<ch.apos/>s men have secured the village and they are busy helping the villagers to fight small fires which are burning in several of the cottages.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You continue along the avenue until you reach the city<ch.apos/>s north wall. Here you stop to read a proclamation that had been nailed to the door of a coaching inn and stables. It states that a curfew is in force in Rhem, and anyone found on the streets an hour after nightfall will be arrested by the city watch.</p>
- <p>You are about to leave when you overhear the owner of the stables talking to one of his stable-hands. The boy is holding the reins of an aged horse that is severely lame in one leg, and the owner is telling him that he can no longer afford to stable the sick old mare.</p>
- <p><quote>She<ch.apos/>ll have to go,</quote> says the owner, shaking his head, <quote>she<ch.apos/>s worthless to me now she<ch.apos/>s not earning her keep.</quote></p>
- <p>Tears are streaming down the young boys face. Clearly he loves the old horse and is heartbroken at the prospect of her being destroyed. Boldly you approach the owner and propose a deal.</p>
-
- <p><quote>Sir, if I am able to cure this lame mare,</quote> you say, stroking the horse<ch.apos/>s velvety nose, <quote>then will you allow me to keep her?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Ha, ha, ha, so you think you can work miracles, do you?</quote> chuckles the owner, <quote>Very well then, stranger. If you can cure her<ch.emdash/>you can keep her.</quote></p>
- <p>Gently you settle the mare and run your hands down her lame foreleg. Using your Magnakai Disciplines of curing and animal control, you slowly ease her worn-out joints and mend her cracked bones. Within minutes she is as agile as a new-born foal.</p>
- <p><quote>Well I be a storgh<ch.apos/>s uncle!</quote> gasps the owner, amazed by the sudden transformation. <quote>So, stranger, you <cite>can</cite> work miracles after all! The horse is yours!</quote></p>
- <p>You climb upon the mare<ch.apos/>s back and wave farewell to the owner and the stable-boy, who is now crying tears of joy.</p>
- <p><quote>If ever you<ch.apos/>re looking for work,</quote> says the owner, as you turn the horse to leave, <quote>then there<ch.apos/>ll always be a job for you here!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect244"><link-text>Turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You intone the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Invisible Fist</spell> and extend the palm of your right hand, pointing it towards the belly of the swooping beast. You feel a surge of energy leap from your palm and shoot towards the creature. It senses your attack and veers in mid-air to avoid it, but its reactions are too slow to escape being hit. The concussive force of your spell deals a crushing blow to its chest and, momentarily stunned by the impact, the beast loses control and hits the ground with a sickening crunch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cearmaine provides you with a fresh horse from the Canatarium<ch.apos/>s stables, and then he escorts you personally to the city<ch.apos/>s north gate.</p>
- <p><quote>Good luck and godspeed, Grand Master,</quote> he says. <quote>May we meet again one day<ch.emdash/>but in happier circumstances.</quote></p>
- <p>Under cover of darkness you ride due north towards the border with Eldenora, less than eight miles distant. The hilly terrain and your natural camouflage skills enable you to evade the enemy<ch.apos/>s lookouts and pass into their territory unseen. At first the going is easy and you cover many miles despite the undulating ground, but shortly before dawn you find yourself descending from the hills towards an expanse of marsh and reed beds. You try to avoid this bog and make a wide detour to the east, but before long you are brought to a halt at the edge of a steep ravine.</p>
- <p>Both ways ahead now look impossible on horseback, but you are loathe to abandon your mount. You decide to turn back, yet you have gone no more than half a mile when your Kai senses alert you to danger. In the distance you see a regiment of Eldenoran cavalry on the move; you count more than a hundred riders. Rather than risk running foul of them, you reluctantly abandon your horse and return again to the edge of the ravine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you wish to attempt to cross the ravine, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you decide to try to cross the bog, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You erect a psychic shield to protect our mind from Roark<ch.apos/>s assault, and you successfully deflect his attack. But as his ghastly apparition gallops past, it stirs in its wake a whirling maelstrom that is filled with rocks, broken glass and other city debris. This whirlwind assails you physically and knocks you to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ghost of Roark</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You conduct this combat in ho normal way. While attacking the ghost of Roark using your psychic Kai abilities, you must defend yourself from the injurious effects of the debris-storm. Only by defeating Roark<ch.apos/>s ghost an combat will you cause the maelstrom to cease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the monastery under cover of darkness and set off towards the north-west, into the foothills the Durncrag mountains. Soon you pick up the trail that leads to Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie and you follow it for a mile to where it crosses a mountain stream. Mist oozes from the peaty soil, breathing a damp film on the surrounding rocks.</p>
- <p>You continue beyond the mist-enshrouded stream until you reach a rocky spur of granite called Eagle<ch.apos/>s Claw. Here you detect a low humming sound and your pulse quickens; you sense you are getting closer to the Shadow Gate. This resonant hum steadily increases in volume the nearer you get to Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie. Then, as you come to within a few hundred yards of the peak, you catch your first glimpse of the Shadow Gate. It is an awe-inspiring sight.</p>
- <p>It appears like a black, semi-circular cavemouth that seems to hover motionless in the air. Crackling snakes of electrical energy surround its edges, and the air before it writhes and shimmers like a desert mirage. You reach to the pocket of your tunic and remove the Sun-Crystal, weighing it carefully in your hand so that you will be ready to throw it accurately when the time comes.</p>
- <p>The electrical fire that borders the Shadow Gate suddenly flares and gives off hissing sparks which climb like fireworks into the night sky. Moments later, a trio of lavas emerge from its total darkness and soar into the air. Judging by their direction of flight, you determine that they are going to reinforce the enemy line which keeps King Ulnar<ch.apos/>s armies at bay.</p>
- <p>You are too far from the Shadow Gate to hurl the Sun-Crystal and so, with caution, you begin to inch your way nearer to your goal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship and Telegnosis <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you do not possess <cite>both</cite> of these skills, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you take hold of Nathor and heave him across the neck of a saddled horse. Then you mount this steed and urge it to the gallop, scattering a trio of bogus castle guards that are hurriedly trying to block your escape from the stables. The castle keep is alive with screams and curses as you steer your horse towards the gatehouse, where, to your mounting horror, you see the portcullis beginning to fall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Telegnosis, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Lord or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2. If you possess Animal Mastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This village is a run down shabby-looking place which appears to have seen better days. The timbers of its gaudily-painted houses are riddled with rot, and its citizens have a mean and surly demeanour at you find irksome. You are having second thoughts about stopping at the inn and are only persuaded when you hear the distant rumble of thunder.</p>
- <p>To your surprise, you discover the owner of the Pickled Scow to be an unusually kind and cheerful character. For 3 Gold Crowns (erase these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>), he and his daughter furnish you with a fine meal and a warm room above their kitchen. Before you retire for the night, they invite you to sample their ale<ch.emdash/>free of charge. It is a weak but flavoursome brew, and while you sip it in front of the blazing hearth, they tell you stories about the colourful travellers who have spent the night at their inn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you wish to ask them if they have heard any news about your homeland, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the bog, the land gently rises to barren plateau that is dotted with scrub and stunted pines. Here, beneath the twisted boughs of a dead tree, you make camp for the night and settle down to sleep. Before you rest, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">To continue, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>King Ulnar convenes an emergency council of the Sommlending barons in his Chamber of State. When all are assembled, Baron Caldar of Anskaven conducts a briefing, principally for your benefit, outlining the grave situation confronting Sommerlund and, most especially, the new order of the Kai. You are aware of much of what he says, having been briefed already by Gwynian the Sage in Varetta, but you learn that the Sommlending army has lost many brave men attempting to break the siege at the Kai Monastery and is too weakened, at present, to attack the enemy again.</p>
- <p><quote>Where is Guildmaster Banedon?</quote> you ask, when called upon by the King to speak to the council of war.</p>
- <p><quote>He is at the Kai Monastery,</quote> answers Baron Medar of Tyso, <quote>He, in company with Lord Rimoah of Dessi and the ten most senior magicians of Toran<ch.apos/>s Brotherhood, went to the monastery during the early days of the siege. They travelled there aboard the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s skyship and<ch.ellips/></quote> At this point, the Baron hesitates and looks to the King, as if seeking his permission to continue. The King continues on his behalf.</p>
- <p><quote>Grand Master,</quote> he says, his voice heavy, <quote>The Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s skyship was seen falling from the skies above the monastery. Border Rangers saw it crash in flames. We<ch.ellips/> we fear that all aboard were lost.</quote></p>
- <p>The King<ch.apos/>s words come as a terrible blow for Banedon and Rimoah are your closest friends. If it is true, and all of Sommerlund<ch.apos/>s finest magicians have been lost at a stroke, then the blow is doubly severe. The security of your homeland will have been greatly compromised by their deaths.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect124">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight with devastating skill and, despite the overwhelming odds against you, you succeed in defeating every last one of these vicious hounds. As the last one falls to your blows, you urge your horse away from the bridge and set off along the track to the distant town of Scade.</p>
- <p>On returning to the Lucky Bucket inn, you break the ill news of your encounter at Castle Tranius to he remaining five troopers. It comes as a shock, both to them and to he innkeeper, who fears for the safety of the real Knight Tranius.</p>
- <p><quote>I haven<ch.apos/>t seen him in the town for near-on a week,</quote> he says, anxiously rubbing his many chins. <quote>We <ch.apos/>ere had no inkling that somethin<ch.apos/> bad was happenin<ch.apos/> up there at the castle. It<ch.apos/>s right put the shakes up me, I can tell you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and, simultaneously, you leap into the air. The spell takes effect almost immediately, and it pushes you high enough to avoid the dragon<ch.apos/>s searing blast of flame.</p>
- <p>Your quick thinking has saved your skin, but it does not impress the dragon. Your escape from his incinerating breath serves to make him even angrier. He stomps his massive forefoot down on to the black soil and sends a splash of molten mud and flame soaring into the sulphurous sky.</p>
- <p>You ease the levitation spell and return to the uncertain black soil. Then you retreat towards the Shadow Gate, but, as you run, you are forced to reach for your weapon as the great beast comes lumbering forwards with his jaw agape.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a Platinum Amulet, a Talisman of Ishir, or the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you must now deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the debilitating effects of the heat and atmosphere.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai skill, you send a silent, soothing message to the excited war-dogs. They respond within seconds, becoming suddenly quiet as your psychic command subdues their trained and natural instincts. Their handlers, the Eldenoran archers, curse them under their breath, thinking that their outburst may have given away their position to the enemy. While they are berating their dogs, you slip through their line and move deeper into the woods.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Lord Constable Is an imposing man with a proud and noble countenance. At your approach he removes a white Leather gauntlet and welcomes you with a formal salute.</p>
- <p><quote>Greetings, my Lord,</quote> he says, his voice deep and resonant, <quote>Welcome to Garthen. I am Nathor, Lord Constable of the Royal Citadel. It would be an honour if you would allow me to escort you and Lord Ardan to an audience with Queen Evaine.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The defenders on the Tower fight like lions. The battle is fierce and bloody throughout the monastery, but the struggle is soon won and the shaken remnants of the winged attackers are repelled with heavy losses. A great cheer goes up as the last of the battered lavas limps into the air and makes its escape towards the Durncrags.</p>
- <p>You leave the Tower and tour the battlements, offering words of comfort to the wounded and praising those Kai who have shown exceptional bravery. You are returning to the Grand Hall when you see Banedon approaching from the other direction.</p>
- <p><quote>The time is ripe for you to begin your mission, Grand Master,</quote> he says. <quote>The enemy have lost a great number this night<ch.emdash/>it is unlikely they will return before the dawn.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, my friend,</quote> you reply, touching the pocket of your tunic which contains the Sun-Crystal, <quote>you are right. The time has come<ch.emdash/>I will leave for Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie at once.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and slay the first guard to come within arm<ch.apos/>s length of your horse. The others freeze in their tracks, stunned by the speed of your attack, but then the sergeant screams at them like a wild animal and they rush forward again. They are more scared of their sergeant<ch.apos/>s wrath, it seems, than they are of your battle skill. You must fight them.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Duadon guardsmen:</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect335">You may evade this combat after loin rounds by <link-text>turning to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you win he fight, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush into the forest and glance overhead to make doubly sure that you are not being tracked by the winged lavas. The darkening sky is clear of the enemy and confidently you press on through the trees, sure in your ability to remain undetected now that you are in your natural environment of the forest.</p>
- <p>Soon you reach the clearing and hurry to a boulder which bears the imprint of a human band. You place your right hand upon it and the imprint fits around it like a glove. Silently a hinged stone slab rises up from the around revealing a stair hat leads down into a brick-lined passageway. You enter and hurry along this familiar tunnel, covering a mile before you come to a door that opens automatically at your approach. Beyond lies the Vault of the Sun, your personal stronghold. It radiates a warmly golden light: they are the rays of the Lorestones of Nyxator. Once safely inside your underground lair, you pause to allow the radiant light of the Lorestones to wash over your tired and aching limbs and, within the space of a few heartbeats, the fatigue of your long journey home is melted away (restore all lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Revived and revitalized, you throw open the door to the vault and see a young Kai Master standing guard at the foot of the tower stairwell. He is Sabre Fox, one of your most gifted students.</p>
- <p><quote>Gr.. Grand Master!</quote> he stammers, hardly daring to believe his eyes, <quote>you have returned. Praise the Gods!<ch.emdash/>Our prayers have been answered!</quote></p>
- <p>You smile at the young Kai Master who now has tears of joy in his steel-grey eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, Sabre Fox,</quote> you reply, <quote>I have returned. Now let us vanquish this foe and rid our land of their evil shadow.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> you are able to counter the speed of your descent. Unfortunately, Lord Constable Nathor does not possess the same ability and, as you are beginning to slow down, he comes screaming past you, his eyes and mouth wide with terror.</p>
- <p>You stretch out and make a grab for his cloak as he hurtles past. You manage to get a grip and hold on fast, but as you are nearing the ground, his cloak comes undone and he falls the last twenty feet to the flagstoned keep. Upon landing, you discover that Nathor is still alive, but his left ankle is badly broken and his face is cut and bruised. Despite his obvious pain he manages a smile, revealing gaps where he is now missing two of his teeth.</p>
- <p>Bravely Nathor stifles his urge to scream as you take hold of his shattered ankle. You summon your healing powers and transmit them through your hands to the injured foot (reduce you <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 4). You feel the warmth of your power start to reduce the swollen tissues and mend the broken bone, but before you can complete the cure, a yelling horde of bogus castle guardsmen come rushing from out of the gatehouse with their swords drawn. You unsheathe your weapon and crouch in readiness to meet their manic attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Castle guardsmen (imposters)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly an explosion of while light fills your vision and the taste of blood fills your mouth: you have been hit in the head by an armour-piercing arrow. Mercifully, death is virtually instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Sadly your life and your journey home comes to an abrupt end here, in the cold dark waters of the River Reloni.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Slow Fall</spell> and then leap from the rocky slab to where the Sun-Crystal is lying, wedged among the rocks. The spell slows your descent, and you are able to land easily. With a growing sense of awe, you take hold of the warm crystal and turn to look back at the Shadow Gate in order to gauge your throw.</p>
- <p>The halo of energy which surrounds the Gate begins to crackle fiercely, and your Kai instincts tingle with a strange and sinister premonition. You can sense that, on the Plane of Darkness, Naar has just consigned his newest champions to the Shadow Gate. His mighty dragon herd is on its way to Magnamund.</p>
- <p>As the first rays of the dawn sun spread across the surrounding rocks, you draw back your arm and hurl the Sun-Crystal into the gaping maw of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You yell at the drunken thug, calling him a <quote>cowardly snake</quote> in his native Eldenoran tongue. Unfortunately, this taunt does not distract him for long. In fact it makes the situation worse<ch.emdash/>he seems more frightened and murderous now than he was before.</p>
- <p>He snarls as he raises his dagger and you are forced to rush headlong towards him in a desperate attempt to prevent him from wounding his innocent captive<ch.apos/>s child.</p>
- <choice idref="sect311"><link-text>Turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sleep well and rise with the cock<ch.apos/>s crow. When you reach the stable, you discover the innkeeper has already prepared your horse ready for your departure. You thank him and wave farewell to be cheerful man and his daughter as you set off on the road north to Varetta.</p>
- <p>It is midday when you catch your first glimpse of this ancient city. Positioned on a large plateau in the centre of a grassy plain, the blood-red walls and towering spires of Varetta look doubly impressive. As you approach the south gate, you admire the carvings which embellish the city<ch.apos/>s walls. They depict great dragons with snake-like bodies that intertwine as they flow around the towers and bastions of this ancient city.</p>
- <p>The guards at the gate allow you to enter without challenge, and you pass through the grand southern entrance which leads to a flagstoned square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If you have ever visited Varetta before, in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you have never visited this city before, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leading Eldenoran soldier is stunned into open-mouthed shock when he sees you standing in the trench before him. You strike a swift, deadly blow, and he staggers backwards, pulling two of his comrades down to the floor of the trench as he falls. The others draw their swords and come leaping over their fallen friends, attacking you with unexpected fury.</p>
- <p>Eldenoran assault troops; <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 39 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 42</p>
- <choice idref="sect324">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you are confronted by one of these beasts who attempts to strike you from the Tower with its horny tail. You leap to avoid its scything attack, draw your weapon in mid-air, and swing your first blow the moment your feet return to the flagstones.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You help the Baroness<ch.apos/>s entourage 10 set up camp beside the stream while Dorst, who considers himself something of a master cook, prepares the trout you caught earlier. To your surprise, the meal turns out to be excellent (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.)</p>
- <p>During supper, you ask the Baroness what news she has heard of events in the east. She tells you that there is war between the principalities of the Stornlands, although this is such a common condition that it can hardly be considered news any more. Of distant Sommerlund she has heard nothing. After supper, she excuses herself and retires to her carriage. Dorst posts two men to guard her coach, then he invites you to play cards with himself and the remaining five men.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you wish to accept his offer, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect330">If you choose to decline his offer, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Throughout your sky voyage home, your mind is filled with the fear and uncertainty of what may await you in Holmgard. You spend most of the journey on the rear deck, alone with your thoughts, staring down at the land speeding past more than a mile below. You watch as the jungle of the Maakenmire swamp gives way to the barren scrub of the Wildlands. Then, when you catch sight of the Pass of Moytura, your pulse races with excitement for this V-shaped cleft in the southern Durncrags is where the Wildland territories end and your beloved homeland of Sommerlund begins. Yet he excitement you feel here is but nothing compared to your elation when you first glimpse the lights of Holmgard<ch.emdash/>the Sommlending capital.</p>
- <p>Guided by beacons blazing atop the King<ch.apos/>s Citadel, the crew of the Cloud-dancer bring her gently in towards the city. The craft is made to hover directly above the Citadel and hawsers are lowered to anchor her in position against the wind. Then you descend by rope ladder to the Citadel roof where your are greeted by a distinguished party of Barons and Fryearls, led by King Ulnar himself.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome home, Grand Master,</quote> he says, his voice breaking with emotion. Then he clasps you to his chest, like a father welcoming home a lost son. <quote>Thank Kai and Ishir you are safe, Lone Wolf</quote> he says. <quote>Now may the darkness of Naar be lifted from our land.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect44"><link-text>Turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>In the name of the Gods!</quote> splutters Nathor, spilling liqueur down the front of his tunic, <quote>what was that?</quote></p>
- <p>A knot of fear tightens in the pit of your stomach. <quote>A Kraan,</quote> you reply, recognizing at once the fell cry of this unwelcome creature.</p>
- <p>You hurry to a window and see the large, bat-like Kraan silhouetted against the moon. A man-sized rider clings precariously to the creature<ch.apos/>s reptilian back as it swoops and soars among the hills and gulleys.</p>
- <p><quote>You had best come away from the window, my Lord,</quote> replies an anxious Nathor, <quote>lest it detects your presence here,</quote></p>
- <p>You take heed of the Lord Constable<ch.apos/>s advice and retreat from the window. Furthermore, you use your Magnakai skill of Kai-screen to shield your mind in case the Kraan rider is able to employ psychic abilities to locate your presence.</p>
- <p><quote>It is not the first time it has come,</quote> says Rasbarin. <quote>Every night for the past ten days we<ch.apos/>ve heard it circling the hills. Sometimes there is more than one of its kind.</quote> He suggests that you bunk in the cellar of the monastery where you may be safer from detection, and you accept his offer gladly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stop to survey the shops and stalls which encircle this busy square, you notice a stone signpost positioned on a plinth at its centre. It indicates the names of the three exits from this square:</p>
- <p>Ladder Way (North) Spur Lane (East) Quill Street (West)</p>
- <choice idref="sect112">If you wish to enter Ladder Way, <link-text>turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you wish to enter Spur Lane, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect90">If you wish to enter Quill Street, <link-text>turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the horsemen close in, unexpectedly you spur your steed straight at then in a bold counter-charge. The move takes the leading pair of riders by surprise and, before they fully recover their battle-senses, you speed between them and lash out with a single scything sweep. Both riders crash to the ground<ch.emdash/>minus their heads.</p>
- <p>Shocked by your sheer audacity, the brigand leader shouts a recall to the others. They wheel around in a wide arc and form up in a line behind him, cursing you vehemently for the death of their comrades. Then, with a vengeful yell, the brigand chief leads his gang of saddle-bandits in a charge that, he hopes, will leave you trampled into the ground.</p>
- <p>As this wave of brigands come thundering down upon you, the leader urges at your head with his straight-bladed sword. It whistles by just inches from your scalp, but you do not allow him a second try. You twist in the saddle and strike like lightning, splitting his helmet and his skull with a single mighty blow. He falls before his men, yet they prove to be hardy rogues and they press home their attack regardless.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran brigands</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">46</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect182">You may evade this combat after four rounds, by <link-text>turning to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With dread, you cast your eyes across a nightmare landscape that stretches in every direction to a horizon dancing with fire. Streams of blazing lava cut fissures through the coal-black soil, and pools of molten mud, glowing cherry-red, spout geysers of yellow flame that seem to claw vengefully at the orange sky. The heat, and the stench of sulphur, is overwhelming.</p>
- <p>The lavas drops you onto the shifting black soil and soars upwards until it disappears into the roiling clouds. In the middle distance you see a herd of dragon-like creatures, snorting fire as they lumber slowly across this hellish plain. You sense great danger, and when you focus your Kai skills at the approaching leviathans, you are shocked by what you learn.</p>
- <p>You have been transported to the Plane of Darkness, the domain occupied and ruled over by Naar, the Dark God. The approaching dragon-creatures are massing to enter the Shadow Gate that lies several hundred yards at your back. They are Naar<ch.apos/>s newest creations, and you sense that if they are allowed entry to your world, then Sommerlund and the Kai are doomed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect321">If you possess Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess a Platinum Amulet, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect18">If you possess a Talisman of Ishir, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect131">If you do not possess this skill, nor either of these Special Items, <link-text>turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You manage to pull free from he tangle of shattered timbers, but you are now so chose to unconsciousness due to lack of oxygen that you are forced to surface. The moment your head bobs above the water and you gasp for breath, you attract a volley of arrows from the archers hiding in the trees.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 1.</p>
- <p>If your total score is now 3 or less, him to 53.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon your special Kai abilities to lighten your body weight sufficiently enough for you to prevent yourself from sinking further into this evil-smelling morass. Then, using your hands and weapons, you wade through this sinking bog until you feel the welcome sensation of firm ground once more beneath your feet. You rest momentarily to regain your strength before you hurry away from the morass and head north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your hand and bring the regiment to a silent halt. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val leans towards you from his saddle and whispers: <quote>Here is the enemy who have your monastery surrounded, Grand Master, and this as the weakest point in their line.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I know this place,</quote> you reply, quietly. <quote>The monastery lies beyond the next ridge of trees. If we are to break through here, we must be quick about it. These creatures can take to the skies<ch.emdash/>it would not take them long to summon reinforcements.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You are right, Grand Master. The risks are indeed great, but I and my men are willing to take them to ensure your return to the Monastery of the Kai. You must get through. You are the only one who can destroy the Shadow Gate and remove this curse from our land.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Very well then, Captain,</quote> you reply, unsheathing your weapon. <quote>Pass the order to prepare to charge.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack leader is torn to shreds by the blast, and several of his followers are left mortally wounded. The sight of their injuries, coupled with the deafening sound of the unexpected explosion, is more than the remaining pack members can bear. With a howl of fear and frustration, they turn away and race back to the safety of Castle Tranius.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The howling winds of the abyss buffet you unmercifully as you spin around this whirling black vortex. Pressure begins to build in your body, and soon the pain in your head and chest become almost unbearable: it feels as if you are being torn apart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect305">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride to a barricade that is within twenty yards of the river<ch.apos/>s edge. To he astonishment of the soldiers who are sheltering here from a hail of fire bombs and arrows, you leap from your horse and sprint headlong towards the river. The moment you hit the freezing water, you stay submerged as you begin the long swim to the opposite bank.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>5, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If it is 6<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tell Captain D<ch.apos/>Val to take the regiment fifty yards back along the trail. When he has complied with your order, you move upstream until you can see, at an angle, the source of the ultra-violet beam: it is a shiny metallic polyhedron, studded with rivets.</p>
- <p>Using your Kai mastery of Nexus, you cause the device to rise. You have lifted it no more than a few inches when suddenly It is torn apart by a violent explosion that peppers the area around the ford with sharp splinters of rock. As the dust of the explosion clears, you signal to D<ch.apos/>Val to bring the regiment forward.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank Ishir you<ch.apos/>re with us,</quote> says the Captain, as he leads the men across the ford. <quote>Without you, this wicked sorcery would have cost us dear.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The figure at the fireplace does not reply. Instead, it stretches out a gloved hand and takes up an iron rod which is lying upon the stone mantle. The instant its fingers close around the haft, a crackling blue flame ignites at its tip.</p>
- <p><quote>Draw steel!</quote> commands Nathor, and his men respond by unsheathing their swords in readiness for combat. You focus your psychic powers at the figure and sense that it is not human: it possesses an aura of evil that marks it as a dark disciple, a magician versed in the forbidden black arts of the Nadziranim.</p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a low, concussive boom and a spiral of blue flame shoots the length of the hail, Fired from the tip of the figure<ch.apos/>s iron stave. You are its intended target and you dive to the floor to avoid being hit. The bolt ricochets off the stone wall close behind you and shatters one of the tall windows into a thousand glittering shards.</p>
- <p><quote>Take him!</quote> shouts Nathor, and his men rush forward, but a second blast from the stave puts an end to their brave advance. All three are cut down by an arc of blue fire that leaves their corpses heaped and smouldering in the middle of the hall.</p>
- <p>Nathor curses the sinister figure and it responds by uttering a chilling, inhuman laugh. Now you sense a new danger approaching<ch.emdash/>the being<ch.apos/>s sickly laughter is summoning its minions to the hall.</p>
- <p><quote>Lord Nathor!</quote> you cry, <quote>We cannot prevail here. We must escape<ch.ellips/> follow me!</quote></p>
- <p>And with these words, you race to the window and leap feet-first through its shattered pane.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within a matter of seconds, the remaining pack members catch the scent of their leaders blood and it drives them into a frenzy. They increase their speed and, knowing that you cannot out-run them, you are forced to turn and face them as they launch a simultaneous attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran war-dogs (in blood-frenzy)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">47</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to their frenzied state, these war-dogs are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave behind the Denka Gate and follow a road that twists and climbs through densely wooded highland. Once you crest the last timbered hill, you begin a gradual descent towards the Taunor Valley<ch.emdash/>a fertile expanse of cropland and grassy plain. By dusk you can see the River Quarl ahead and, shortly before nightfall, you cross its fast-flowing waters at a bridge in the centre of Quarlen, a busy town on the caravan route to Casiorn.</p>
- <p>Just beyond the bridge you see an impressive hostelry, with adjoining stables. A shield hangs above the courtyard gate displaying its name: THE BARREL BRIDGE TAVERN.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If you wish to stop and enter this hostelry, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you choose to continue your ride to Casiorn, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the twilight before dawn, you catch sight of the River Kinam less than a mile away to the west. You scan the surrounding landscape and note several small tracks (which lead to tiny farmsteads dotted around the vast plain) converging at a hamlet which nestles in a bend of this great river. During the past hour your horse has developed a slight limp, and a cursory look at his affected leg reveals that he has thrown a shoe. You know that unless you replace the missing shoe, and soon, he will be too lame to carry you further. Reluctantly, you decide to enter the hamlet and go in search of a blacksmith.</p>
- <p>A signpost at the entrance to the hamlet announces its name: Kalma. It is a quiet, sleepy sort of place that in many ways reminds you of Dage, the Sommlending village where you were born and where you spent your early years. Near the centre of this humble village you discover a smithy where, even at this early hour, you can hear the sound of a hammer beating iron. You tether your horse to a rail alongside a moth-eaten old donkey, and call out for the blacksmith.</p>
- <p><quote>In <ch.apos/>ere,</quote> comes the curt reply. On entering you discover a tail, broad-shouldered man clad in a leather apron, busily shaping a horseshoe on an anvil.</p>
- <p><quote>My steed has shed a shoe,</quote> you say, <quote>can replace it?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye,</quote> he says, without bothering to look up from his work, <quote>but it<ch.apos/>ll cost you 20 Lune. In cash, and in advance, if you please.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you have sufficient cash to pay the blacksmith (20 Lune = 5 Gold Crowns}, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow glances harmlessly off the dragon<ch.apos/>s skull, making him even angrier than he already is. He stomps his massive forefoot down onto the black soil and sends a splash of molten mud and flames soaring into the air.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you discard your bow and reach for your weapon as the great beast comes lumbering slowly towards you with his massive jaw agape.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a Platinum Amulet, a Talisman of Ishir, or the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you must now deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the debilitating effects of the heat and atmosphere.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You avoid, as best you can, any contact with your fellow passengers as the ferry sets off on its return trip to the city of Rhem. It docks inside the city<ch.apos/>s famous horseshoe-shaped harbour, and you make sure that you are among the first to disembark.</p>
- <p>Using your Kai camouflage skills and your natural stealth, you avoid the attentions of the watchful Salonese guards at the harbour and, once inside the city proper, you merge with the crowds. Soon you find yourself in a square that is overshadowed by the twin towers of Rhem Cathedral. An avenue runs along the cathedral<ch.apos/>s south side and, at its far end, your eye is drawn to a rusty suit of armour which stands beside the door to a dingy-looking weapons shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to enter this armoury, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you decide not to enter, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout the order to fire and the Kai let loose their straining bowstrings. A cloud of arrows with armour-piercing tips, hardened in the fires of the monastery forge, whistle towards the swooping lavas with impressive accuracy. All find their target, but only one of the winged creatures falls from the sky. You see that the beast has been struck in the eye. Hurriedly the acolytes reload as the lava prepare to land on the battlements.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire at their eyes!</quote> you shout, and a cloud of fifty Kai arrows are sent screaming through the sky to seek their elusive mark. This time more than half find their target, decimating the onrushing lavas at a single stroke, yet those winged creatures who do survive this deadly volley are quick1y among the defenders on the wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165"><link-text>Turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell>, you command the prisoner to reveal the identity of the person who sent him here to Garthen to murder you. At first you are unable to penetrate the man<ch.apos/>s mind<ch.emdash/>his memory is protected by a magical shield. Then you draw on your psychic Kai skills to boost the <spell>Mind Charm</spell> spell and suddenly you feel the man<ch.apos/>s magical shield begin to crack and disintegrate.</p>
- <p>The man shrieks with fear as his body is racked by convulsions. A mass of images swirl and solidify in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye<ch.emdash/>they are images of a past meeting in a far-off place which you recognize to be Duadon, the capital city of Eldenora. You see a shadowy figure, sheathed in ornate chainmail, handing a bulging pouch of gold to the prisoner in a dimly-lit alleyway. The figure speaks your name before melting away into the shadows.</p>
- <p><quote>Who is this person?</quote> you say, commanding the trembling prisoner to answer. He parts his bruised lips and tries to utter a name but no sound emerges. You sense that he is fighting to overcome the remnants of the shielding spell placed upon his mind. Moving closer, you try to make out the name he is struggling hard to whisper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The herd of coppery-red dragons continue their relentless advance across the fiery plain. You count more than a hundred in total, and each one is as long and as broad as a galleon. The largest of their number, who is also the swiftest of foot, comes looming towards you, breathing blasts of blue flame. His scaly brethren halt in their tracks and watch expectantly, through hooded black eyes, as their leader stalks you like a cat preying upon a helpless doormouse.</p>
- <p>High above, swooping in and out of the clouds, are scores of cackling lavas. You sense also another presence, a wispy dark shadow that exudes malevolence. You shudder when you realize that you are in the presence of a manifestation of Naar himself. He has come to witness your doom, to enjoy the sport of your final, futile battle, before he unleashes his dragons upon Sommerlund. The lavas<ch.apos/> attacks were but a preliminary phase of his master plan to destroy Sommerlund and the Kai.</p>
- <p>With terror in your heart you retreat across the moving sands in a desperate attempt to reach the Shadow Gate<ch.emdash/>your only hope of escape. The dragon continues to advance and it utters a thunderous roar as it bares its fangs in preparation for its attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you do not, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the riders approach, your initial suspicions are confirmed: these are unquestionably Eldenoran brigands. Their saddle-cloths bear their emblem and their steeds are laden with sacks and pouches that bulge with ill-gotten gains. You decide to remain hidden until they have passed by, but as they draw level with the copse, your horse suddenly shrieks and rises up on its hind legs, With shocked dismay you see that a harmless grasssnake has coiled itself around your horse<ch.apos/>s foreleg.</p>
- <p>The cry of your frightened horse betrays your hiding place. The Eldenorans wheel away from the road and come charging towards the copse, their swords drawn in eager anticipation of yet another easy kill.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you wish to unsheathe a weapon and gel ready to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect241">If you choose to retreat deeper into the copse in an attempt to evade these brigands, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Old Kingdom battle-spell <spell>Hold Enemy</spell>, you command the Eldenoran to cease all movement. Instantly, the drunken thug freezes like a stone statue, enabling the young woman and her child to break free from his grasp. She runs towards you, cradling the sobbing child in her arms.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank you, thank you<ch.ellips/></quote> she cries as she falls to your feet. Gently you lift her, assuring her with kind words that her ordeal is over. She smiles, reassured, but her expression quickly changes when she spots something moving behind you.</p>
- <p><quote>There he is, that cur Holkar!</quote> she spits. <quote>He<ch.apos/>s the murdering leader of these bandits. All this chaos his doing.</quote></p>
- <p>You turn to look at the object of her hatred, and see a swarthy brigand dodging between the gravestones tat line the abbey grounds. He has a sack full of cot slung over his shoulder and he is hurrying towards his horse which stands close to the abbey<ch.apos/>s perimeter wall. Determined not to let him escape, you rush into the grounds of the abbey and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once outside the broken gate of Amory, you turn to the north and follow the road which leads to Varetta, the principal city of Lyris. At noon you come to a fork in the road where a signpost indicates two different destinations: Soren (left) and Varetta (right). You take the right-hand road and spend the afternoon riding across a lonely stretch of gently undulating plain. During this ride, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Daylight is beginning to wane when you arrive at a village that is dominated by a fortified manor house. Rain clouds are fast closing in from the west and your thoughts turn, once more, to finding shelter or the night.</p>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you wish to seek shelter at the manor house, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect42">If you choose to seek shelter in the village, <link-text>turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Grand Master, let me introduce you to Captain Cearmaine,</quote> says Elector Manatine, formally presenting the tough-looking officer to you. <quote>I have chosen him to see you safely to Holona. He will do all he can to help you through the battle zone so that you may press on with your urgent journey to Casiorn.</quote></p>
- <p>You recognize the captain<ch.apos/>s name and recall haying heard tales of his bravery during the Darklands War. His acts of heroism turned many battles to the favour of the Freeland Armies and earned him a respected reputation throughout Northern Magnamund. You could not have asked for a better man to escort you on the next, difficult stage of your vital journey.</p>
- <p>He offers you his hand in friendship and you are mildly shocked when your fingers close around a palm crafted from cold steel.</p>
- <p><quote>A keepsake from the Battle of Vellino</quote>, he says, smiling at his metal hand. <quote>Sadly, the first was stole away by a Drakkar<ch.apos/>s axe.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the Eldenorans falls to the ground, you turn and vault on to the freed horse<ch.apos/>s back. With a flick of your heels, you urge him to gallop and steer him into the woods. You keep to the trees and head south in a wide arc around the Eldenoran settlement at Fabri. During your ride through the timberland, you discover the following items in the bags and blanket roll which are attached to the horse<ch.apos/>s saddle:</p>
- <p>Sword</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Tinderbox</p>
- <p>Blanket</p>
- <p>Bow</p>
- <p>Quiver containing 5 arrows</p>
- <p>12 Lune (equivalent to 3 Cold Crowns)</p>
- <p>Spyglass</p>
- <p>If you wish to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Shortly before sunset, you emerge from the trees at a place where three trails meet. A wooden signpost propped against a boulder indicates three directions, destinations, and distances:</p>
- <p>North<ch.endash/>Chod<ch.endash/>250 miles</p>
- <p>West<ch.endash/>Holona<ch.endash/>50 miles</p>
- <p>South<ch.endash/>Tenzha<ch.endash/>20 miles</p>
- <p>You are anxious to leave hostile Eldenoran territory as soon as possible and, after checking your <a idref="map">map</a>, you set off to the south, towards the Slovian border town of Tenzha.</p>
- <p>During your tide, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">To continue, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride to Scade, with all the speed your exhausted horse can muster, and return at once to the Lucky Bucket inn where the remaining members of the troop are billeted. The news of your encounter at Castle Tranius comes as a shock, both to the troopers and to the innkeeper who fears for the safety of the real Knight Tranius.</p>
- <p><quote>I haven<ch.apos/>t seen him in the town for near-on a week,</quote> he says, anxiously rubbing his many chins. <quote>We <ch.apos/>ere had no inkling that somethin<ch.apos/> bad was happenin<ch.apos/> up there at the castle. It<ch.apos/>s right put the shakes up me, I can tell you.</quote></p>
- <p>In the warm comfort of the inn, you use your Kai healing skills to mend the Lord Constable<ch.apos/>s injuries. He is carefully testing his weight on his newly mended ankle when suddenly there is a commotion outside in the street. An angry mob of hard-faced men, many clutching torches, staves, and coils of rope, are marching down the cobbled avenue towards the inn.</p>
- <p><quote>Hang the Talestrian thieves!</quote> they shout. <quote>String up the murdering swine!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What<ch.apos/>s going on? Who are these men?</quote> says Nathor. The innkeeper<ch.apos/>s face turns white and he begins to tremble with fear.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.ellips/> I don<ch.apos/>t rightly know,</quote> he stammers, <quote>I ain<ch.apos/>t never seen <ch.apos/>em before. They<ch.apos/>s not from these parts. We<ch.apos/>ve never had no quarrel with Talestria. You<ch.apos/>ve always been our friends.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly a chunk of cobblestone smashes through a window and an angry cry arises from the mob:</p>
- <p><quote>Come out, you Talestrian dogs. Come out or we<ch.apos/>ll burn you out!</quote></p>
- <p>Nathor calls everyone to the rear of the inn where a passage leads directly to the stables.</p>
- <p><quote>I fear this is some kind of crude ploy to murder you, Grand Master,</quote> he says. <quote>If you are to stand any chance of reaching your homeland, you must continue your journey at once. I and my men will do what we can to hold this mob at bay, but you must leave now and you must go alone.</quote></p>
- <p>Another window shatters and a burning brand is hurled into the inn.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> you reply, uneasily, <quote>I shall leave at once.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are part-way across the lord when alarm bells sound on both sides of the river.</p>
- <p><quote>Deserter at the ford!</quote> goes the cry from the Eldenoran fort. <quote>Enemy spy approaching!</quote> shout the Slovian guards.</p>
- <p>Moments later, a hissing cloud of arrows and bolts descend on you from both sides and several missiles graze your back and thighs: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. But the speed of your surprise crossing and your Kai camouflage skills enable you to reach the Slovian side intact, and you disappear swiftly into the darkness of the plains beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92"><link-text>Turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you pass through the Shadow Gate, you are assailed by howling gales and icy winds that freeze you to the bone: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You feel as if both you and the lavas are whirling downwards in ever-decreasing circles into the core of the vortex, and rapidly you lose all track of time. Then, as abruptly as it began, the whirling ceases and the frigidity of the abyss is transformed into a harsh and blistering heat. With fearful apprehension, you force open your eyes to look upon the nightmare realm that surrounds you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you strike your killing blow, the evil power of Lutha<ch.apos/>s ring implodes and consumes the Prince<ch.apos/>s body in a whirlwind of supernatural fire. You turn your back on the intense heat and, when the heat subsides, you turn around to see that he has been incinerated beyond all recognition. No sign of the ring remains, and only a glowing heap of bones mark the place where he fell.</p>
- <p>From beyond a closed door you hear a horde of guards come running along an echoing corridor towards the chamber in which you stand. Beside your feet is the dagger which Prince Lutha used against you, and you stoop to pick it up (record this in the <a idref="action">Weapons List</a> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>Then you lower yourself back into the shaft and descend to the bottom of the pit. There you use the dagger to prise open the circular panel in the wall and, as it falls away, you discover a chute which leads to an underground river. Quickly you crawl along the slime-smeared chute and slip into the river, where you are carried swiftly away by the strong undercurrent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter Quill Street and ride along this narrow avenue, which is flanked by aromatic jala houses and perfumeries, until it turns abruptly right into a wider thoroughfare called Brass Street. Here you see the courtyard enhance to a grand building whose brick and marble fa<ch.ccedil/>ade is adorned with the words: HALLS OF LEARNING. Suddenly you feel inexplicably drawn towards this building; it is as if it possesses the solution to all your problems.</p>
- <p>You enter and ride along a gravelled path which leads to a building where a sign, hanging over its richly-carved oak door, simply says: LIBRARY. You feel compelled to stop here and, without quite knowing why, you dismount from your horse and tie his reins to a ring which is set into the wall. Then you push open the door and enter the library<ch.apos/>s cool interior.</p>
- <p>Countless thousands of books and parchments crowd the stone shelves of this magnificent library. Your eyes travel along them until they reach another door at the far end of the hall. There, standing framed in its archway, is an old man clad in plain brown robes. He looks at you and smiles knowingly.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> he says, <quote>I have been expecting you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you have ever visited a hut on Raider<ch.apos/>s Road, the city of Tahou, or Lake Vorndarol (in previous Lone Wolf adventures), <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you have never visited any of these places, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You grab Dorst by the wrist and shake a dozen cards from his sleeve. A deathly silence descends on the group as all eyes look first at the cards, then at you. Simultaneously, the men start to laugh like hyenas until tears are soon streaming down their faces. One by one, they jiggle their hands over the blanket and hidden cards cascade from all their sleeves.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After the dangers of Eldenora, the plains of peaceful Slovia seem like a tranquil paradise. The grasslands are rich arid fertile, and an abundance of game keeps you well fed during the five days it takes you to ride north to the walled city of Tekaro. Here, at an inn close by the city<ch.apos/>s cathedral, where, years ago, you discovered one of the Lorestones of Nyxator during your quest for Kai knowledge, you spend a fortunate evening in the company of a band of Salonese mercenaries. Aided by your Kai skills, you fleece them of 30 Gold Crowns while playing cards, and with your gain you purchase a fresh horse (or your continuing journey home. (Your new horse and a night<ch.apos/>s lodging at the inn cost you 25 Cold Crowns; you may add the balance of 5 Cold Crowns to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, maximum allowances permitting.)</p>
- <p>Early the following day you leave Tekaro and set out on the highway bound for Tido. You plan to reach Casiorn by means of the North Pass through the Slovarian Range, but during your second day on the road you are forced to revise your plans drastically. During a chance meeting at a wayside inn with a merchant who has journeyed from Casiorn, you learn that an avalanche has blocked the North Pass and travel by that route is now impossible. It will be several months before the pass is cleared and the mountain road rebuilt. You resolve instead to reach Casiorn by way of Varetta, the ancient city of crossed swords, and the following day you resume your ride north.</p>
- <p>During your ride, you stop to assist a farmer whose cart has shed a wheel. In return for your help, he offers the services of his brother who operates a raft ferry across the river Quarl. Gladly the brother transports you and your horse across the river to Salony, where you enter the great forest by way of a timberland trail. After a full day<ch.apos/>s ride along this lonely track, you find yourself approaching the outskirts of a town called Ellio.</p>
- <p>During your long day<ch.apos/>s ride through the forest of Salony, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the heaped bodies of the bogus castle guardsmen and sheathe your bloodied weapon. Then you take hold of Nathor and carry him into the stables where you heave him across the neck of a saddled horse. Quickly you mount this steed and urge it to the gallop, bursting forth from the stable doors at a breakneck speed. Outside, the castle keep is alive with screams and curses as you steer your horse towards the gatehouse, where, to your mounting horror, you see that the portcullis is beginning to fall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Telegnosis, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Lord or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2. If you possess Animal Mastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the sun rises above the waters of the Holmgulf, it sheds its golden light upon the hopeful citizens of Holmgard who have gathered to cheer your departure. You ride out of the King<ch.apos/>s Citadel at the head of the Guard Cavalry regiment, with Captain D<ch.apos/>Val at your side. Bouquets of Sommlending roses are thrown before the hooves of your warhorse, and your ears ring to the jubilant cries of the crowd as you, and the brave horsemen at your back, ride with pride through the city streets that lead to Holmgard<ch.apos/>s north gate.</p>
- <p>Once outside the city, you order your troop to couch their lances and form up in column, four abreast, in readiness for a swift ride north. At midday, you cross the River Unoram and meet with a patrol of Border Rangers who are guarding a junction. A track emerges from the Fryelund Forest and joins with the main road from the west at this point. Although it is unsigned, you recognize its rutted surface at once: it is the Alema trail, one of several forest tracks which lead to the Kai Monastery, thirty miles distant. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val tells you that the enemy line is weakest at a place several miles along this trail.</p>
- <p>The Border Rangers come quickly to attention when they see you approaching. Their leader, a sergeant with a battle-wounded leg, warns you that the enemy were seen earlier flying over this area of the forest. You acknowledge his salute, then you give the order for the regiment to form up in column, two abreast, before leading them along the trail and into the Fryelund Forest.</p>
- <p>You have covered less than a mile of this woodland track when you find yourself descending a gentle slope towards a stream, a tributary of the Unoram. There once was a bridge which crossed the water-course at this point, but it has long since collapsed. Its ancient stones now form a ford which carries the trail over to the far side of the stream.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord or higher, <link-text>turn to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect151">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your Magnakai powers of psi-surge and launch a pulse of energy at the prisoner<ch.apos/>s mind in an attempt to weaken his resolve. Unexpectedly, you discover that his memory is protected by a magical shield and it takes a great effort for you to break through this defence (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 4 points).</p>
- <p>Suddenly the man<ch.apos/>s mind shield crumbles. He shrieks with fear and his body is racked by uncontrollable tremors. You command the prisoner to reveal the identity of the person who sent him here to Garthen to murder you, and a mass of images begin to swirl and solidify in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye. They are the images of a past meeting in a far-off place which you recognize to be Duadon, the capital city of Eldenora. You see a shadowy figure, sheathed in ornate chainmail, handing a bulging pouch of gold to the prisoner in a dimly-lit alleyway. The figure speaks your name before melting away into the shadows.</p>
- <p><quote>Who is this person?</quote> you say, commanding the trembling prisoner to answer. He parts his bruised lips and tries to utter a name but no sound emerges. You sense that he is fighting to overcome the remnants of the shielding spell placed upon his mind. Moving closer, you try to make out the name be is struggling hard to whisper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You resolve to reach a clearing in the Fryelund Forest, a mile to the east of the monastery, where a secret entrance and passageway are located. The passage leads directly to your vault beneath the Tower of the Sun, and it is your intention to gain entry to the monastery by this way.</p>
- <p>Before you set off towards the woods, you use your psychic ability<ch.emdash/>Mindblend<ch.emdash/>as an extra camouflage precaution. Quickly it proves to be wise, for no sooner have you begun to run for the trees, than a flight of winged lavas come soaring out of the clouds overhead. You throw yourself to the ground and they pass by without slowing.</p>
- <p>Once they have disappeared beyond the ridge, you get to your feet and continue your run for the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51"><link-text>Turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave your horse at the derelict barn and make your way on foot towards the ferry post, arriving there just as the boat is docking at the jetty. Using your Kai camouflage skills, and aided by the frenzy of activity, you merge with the crowds of anxious travellers who are jostling to get aboard. An impatient trio of Eldenoran soldiers are collecting tickets from passengers before allowing them off the jetty. When it is your turn to board, you say that you have dropped your ticket and lost it.</p>
- <p><quote>Pay again!</quote> shouts one of the soldiers. <quote>Yeah!</quote> sneers another, <quote>cough up another 2 Crowns, y<ch.apos/> scab, and be sharpish about it!</quote></p>
- <p>Hurriedly you give the soldier 2 Gold Crowns (erase these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and take your place aboard the crowded boat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77"><link-text>Turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As if in answer to your prayer to the Goddess Ishir, the blade of your divine sword suddenly radiates a blinding halo of golden light. You sense that you hold in your hands a weapon capable of destroying the dragon and this realization greatly lifts your spirits (restore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost so far).</p>
- <p>The dragon growls with disdain as the light of your sword washes over his scaly hide. He raises a claw-tipped forepaw and lashes out in an attempt to swat the Sommerswerd from your grasp, but you duck the blow and thrust the blade into his side. He roars with pain, but then he caps at you with frightening speed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vaxagore</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">56</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">52</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast. Due to the increased power of your sword while upon the Plane of Darkness, you may add 4 to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You look up to see the loathsome creature circling directly above, less than twenty feet above the tops of the trees. Instinctively, you crouch down and take cover amongst the nearby foliage, your weapon drawn in readiness, as it attempts in vain to force a landing amongst the densely-packed pines. Its incessant cawing and the crash of its leathery wings against the upper branches brings Dorst and his men hurrying to investigate. They each pause to grab a bow and quiver from their saddlebags, then they loose off a volley of arrows at the beast. Shrieking with frustration, the Kraan takes to the night sky and quickly disappears, heading away to the north.</p>
- <p>A chill night wind whistles through the trees and you shiver. But it is not the cold that is chilling your blood<ch.emdash/>it is the nagging fear that you may never live to see your homeland again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From a secret drawer beneath the stone table, Gwynian brings forth a golden crystal the size of an apple. Its multi-faceted surface radiates a myriad tiny beams which shimmer and sparkle with the fiery energy that is locked within its core.</p>
- <p><quote>This is a Sun-Crystal, Grand Master,</quote> he says, placing the object into the palm of your hand. Its surface feels pleasantly warm, inviting your touch. <quote>If you are to save your brethren, you must close the Shadow Gate for good. This crystal can achieve this aim. It contains power sufficient to destroy the Shadow Gate and prevent its return.</quote></p>
- <p>You look down at the glowing crystal with fearful respect. Gwynian notes your concern and smiles.</p>
- <p><quote>You need not fear the crystal<ch.apos/>s power for it cannot cause harm in our world. Only if it is cast into another plane of existence will its powers be released. Grand Master, you must cast it into the Shadow Gate that Naar has created.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>So this is how I can save my brethren,</quote> you whisper, as you peer into the glittering head of the crystal.</p>
- <p><quote>Just so,</quote> replies Gwynian, <quote>Just so.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Then I must away at once,</quote> you say, placing the Sun-Crystal into the pocket of your tunic. <quote>Now that I have the weapon I need to save my people, I can stay not a moment longer, I must leave for Casiorn at once.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes,</quote> says Gwynian, still smiling, <quote>I know of your plans, and I have made provision for you to travel to the City of Merchants more swiftly. Come, follow me, and all will be revealed.</quote></p>
- <p>Record the Sun-Crystal on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item. You must discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum permissible.</p>
- <choice idref="sect323"><link-text>Turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The figure beside the fireplace does not reply. Instead, it stretches out a gloved hand and takes up an iron rod which is lying upon the stone mantle. The moment its fingers close around the haft, a crackling blue flame ignites at its tip.</p>
- <p><quote>Draw steel!</quote> commands Nathor, and his men respond by unsheathing their swords in readiness or combat. The Sommerswerd hums with power as you release it from its scabbard and hold it before dour face. You sense that the figure is not human: it possesses an aura of evil that marks it as a dark disciple, a magician versed in the forbidden black arts of the Nadziranim.</p>
- <p>Suddenly there is a low, concussive boom and a spiral of blue flame shoots the length of the hall, fired from the tip of the figure<ch.apos/>s iron stave. It connects with the blade of your divine sword and rebounds, shattering one of the tall windows into a thousand glittering shards.</p>
- <p><quote>Take him!</quote> shouts Nathor, and his men rush forward, but a second blast from the stave puts an end to their brave advance. All three are cut down by an arc of blue fire that leaves their corpses heaped and smouldering in the middle of the hall.</p>
- <p>Nathor curses the sinister figure and it responds by uttering a chilling, inhuman laugh. Now you sense a new danger approaching<ch.emdash/>the being<ch.apos/>s sickly laughter is summoning its minions to the hall.</p>
- <p><quote>Lord Nathor!</quote> you cry, <quote>we cannot prevail here. We must escape<ch.ellips/> Follow me!</quote></p>
- <p>And with these words, you race to the window and leap feet first through the shattered pane.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect219">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect301">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow penetrates deeply into the dragon<ch.apos/>s eye, its entire length disappears into the black cornea and he reacts to the sudden, agonising pain by emitting a ground-shuddering roar. He rears up on his hind legs and, for a few terrifying moments, he claws wildly at the sulphurous sky before keeling over on his side. You have slain the dragon!</p>
- <choice idref="sect24"><link-text>Turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount and toss your horse<ch.apos/>s reins to a sniffing stable-boy before entering the dry and welcome warmth of the inn. The innkeeper is a burly, ginger-bearded man with an incongruous lisp, who attends to his small group of patrons with an air of bored indifference. You hand him 2 Cold Crowns and in return you receive a small and draughty room over the stables.</p>
- <p>You sleep well (restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) and wake at dawn. The innkeeper offers you breakfast, but the unsavoury plate of stale cheese and bacon rind that he produces from under the taproom counter does little to excite your appetite. You decline his offer, collect your horse, and set off on the trail which heads east out of Ellio.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sun is now above the horizon and this hamlet is slowly stifling to life. You decide to while away the next hour or so by looking around its simple shops and riverside stores. One building in particular catches your eye: it is a hail perched precariously on the end of a wide wooden jetty. You can hear an old man<ch.apos/>s voice hailing from its open doors, answered by the occasional murmur of a crowd. Inside you discover a wizened old cleric administering to a sick woman whose head is swathed with bandages. The cleric is attempting to cure the woman of her ills by laying-on his hands, but the pressure is simply making the pain in her head feel worse.</p>
- <p><quote>Charlatan,</quote> mumbles one onlooker. <quote>Old fake,</quote> whispers another. The aged cleric hears these dissenting voices and he becomes flustered. Although he may be incompetent as a healer, you sense that he is a good man at heart and so you decide to save him from the disgruntled crowd, who look as if they are on the brink of throwing him In the river at any moment.</p>
- <p><quote>Hold, good brother!</quote> you say, moving swiftly through the crowd to the small stage on which he and the bandaged woman are standing. <quote>You should not be placing your hands upon this good woman<ch.apos/>s head. Surely the source of her pain stems from her aching heart!</quote></p>
- <p>And with this you take hold of the man<ch.apos/>s hands and place them on the woman<ch.apos/>s chest. Her first reaction is one of shock and she starts to pull away, but when you transmit your own healing powers through the cleric<ch.apos/>s hands and into her body, the pain in her head suddenly vanishes. A smile of pure joy lights up her face and hurriedly she strips off her bandages.</p>
- <p><quote>Ishir be praised!</quote> she cried, <quote>I<ch.apos/>m cured. I<ch.apos/>m completely cured!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect188"><link-text>Turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you rise from the river and cough out a mouthful of cold water. The dust of the explosion is settling and you can see D<ch.apos/>Val bringing the regiment forward.</p>
- <p><quote>Are you badly injured, Grand Master?</quote> he shouts, as he comes riding through the water.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.apos/>ll live,</quote> you reply, sardonically, and hurry to remount your skittish horse.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank Ishir you<ch.apos/>re with us,</quote> says the Captain, as together you return to the regiment and lead them across the ford. <quote>Without you, this wicked sorcery would have cost us dear.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect253"><link-text>Turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tip of the swirling vortex is drawn to the Platinum Amulet you wear around your neck, like lightning to a conductor, and upon the instant it touches there is a blinding flash. An electrifying jolt runs through your body and a deafening screech splits the air.</p>
- <p>For a terrifying moment the amulet becomes red hot (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), then there is another flash, and the power of the ring rebounds from the amulet and returns towards its source. For an instant you glimpse the Prince<ch.apos/>s face<ch.emdash/>it is a mask of abject terror. Then the vortex reaches him and, in a blink of an eye, he is swallowed up by a whirlwind of supernatural fire.</p>
- <p><quote>So perish all who serve the Dark God!</quote> you scream, elated by your unexpected victory over the evil Prince Lutha.</p>
- <p>High above you can hear the distant sound of running feet. A troop of the Prince<ch.apos/>s guards are rushing to his aid, although you sense that it is too late to save him now. Rather than stay to face their wrath when they discover their leader has been incinerated, you use the edge of the amulet to prise open the circular panel in the wail of the pit. As it falls away, you discover a chute which leads to an underground river. Quickly you crawl along this slime-smeared chute and slip into the cold waters, where you are carried swiftly away by the strong undercurrent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your horse crashes lifelessly to the ground and you are thrown forwards through the air. With cat-like grace, you land on your feet among the boulders and bracken which border this hill road, and regain your balance almost immediately. Seconds later, you see a yelling horde of leather-clad men, each brandishing a sword or a spear, come rushing from hiding places among the surrounding pines. As they close in upon you, you unsheathe your weapon and prepare to fight for your life.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran ambushers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shrieking lavas snatches you off the mountainside and soars into the air. At first you struggle to free yourself from its mighty claws, but then you see the creature is carrying you directly towards the yawning black maw of the Shadow Gate and you freeze with shock.</p>
- <p>Moments before entering this hellish abyss, you look down and get a passing glimpse of the Sun-Crystal lying among the rocks, no more than thirty feet from the entrance to the Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sheathe your bloodstained weapon and dismount in order to search the bodies of your slain foes. Your search is thorough and it uncovers the following items:</p>
- <p>6 Swords</p>
- <p>4 Axes</p>
- <p>1 Broadsword</p>
- <p>2 Spears</p>
- <p>260 Lune (equivalent to 65 Gold Crowns)</p>
- <p>4 Backpacks</p>
- <p>5 Daggers</p>
- <p>Enough food for 12 Meals</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Boar Whip</p>
- <p>Hammer</p>
- <p>Lantern</p>
- <p>Blanket</p>
- <p>Spyglass</p>
- <p>Sliver Seal (Special Item)</p>
- <p>If you choose to keep any of the above items, remember to record them in the appropriate sections of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">To continue your journey east, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus a blast of psychic energy at the trooper (deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) and he collapses in the doorway, clasping his head and screaming in agony.</p>
- <p>His cries of pain alert his fellow horsemen, but by the time they come to his aid, you and the shocked trooper<ch.apos/>s horse are nowhere to be seen. You keep to the trees and head south in a wide arc around the Eldenoran settlement at Fabri. During your ride trough the woodland, you discover the following items in the bags and blanket roll which are attached to the horse<ch.apos/>s saddle:</p>
- <p>Sword</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Tinderbox</p>
- <p>Blanket</p>
- <p>Bow</p>
- <p>Quiver containing 5 arrows</p>
- <p>12 Lune (equivalent to 3 Cold Crowns)</p>
- <p>Spyglass</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Shortly before sunset, you emerge from the trees at a place where three trails meet. A wooden signpost propped against a boulder indicates three directions, destinations, and distances:</p>
- <p>North<ch.endash/>Chod<ch.endash/>250 miles</p>
- <p>West<ch.endash/>Holona<ch.endash/>50 miles</p>
- <p>South<ch.endash/>Tenzha<ch.endash/>20 miles</p>
- <p>You are anxious to leave hostile Eldenoran territory as soon as possible and, after checking your <a idref="map">map</a>, you set off to the south, towards the Slovian border town of Tenzha.</p>
- <p>During your ride, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">To continue, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spend the night at the Royal Citadel as the guest of Queen Evaine, and enjoy a fine feast and the hospitality of her court. Then, shortly after dawn of the following day, you bid her majesty, and your companion<ch.emdash/>Lord Ardan<ch.emdash/>a fond farewell before beginning the next stage of your long journey home.</p>
- <p>The Queen has given her Lord Constable a Royal Seal and placed him, along with a troop of ten court cavalrymen, at your disposal. Lord Nathor and his men are to act as your guides and bodyguards on the road to Vanamor, the capital city of neighbouring Palmyrion. This republic is closely allied to Talestria and lies along its eastern border. Palmyrion also has close ties with your homeland and you look forward to the chance of renewing your friendship with its leader, Elector Manatine.</p>
- <p>Mounted on fine Talestrian steeds, your party leaves the walled city of Garthen by is East Gate and sets off towards the outlying village of Sharr. Here you cross the mighty River Phoen by way of a great stone bridge. On the far side of this bridge you notice a signpost which points to the east. It reads: VANAMOR 280 miles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210"><link-text>Turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride across this busy square and enter Ladder Way, a thoroughfare which heads towards the very heart of Varetta. Apothecaries and candle-makers<ch.apos/> shops flank this wide street until it opens upon an ornate park that is filled with rare and beautiful flowers.</p>
- <p>To the west of the park you notice a fortified tower, by far the tallest in the city. You feel inexplicably drawn towards this tower; it is as if it possesses the solution to all your problems. You leave the park by its west sate and enter a wider thoroughfare called Brass Street. Here you see the courtyard entrance to a grand budding whose brick and marble facade is adorned with the words: HALLS OF LEARNING.</p>
- <p>You enter and ride along a gravelled path which leads to a building where a sign, hanging over its richly-carved oak door, simply says: LIBRARY. You feel compelled to stop here and, without quite knowing why, you dismount from your horse and tie his reins to a ring which is set into the wall. Then you push open the door and enter the library<ch.apos/>s cool interior.</p>
- <p>Countless thousands of books and parchments crowd the stone shelves of his magnificent library. Your eyes travel along them until they reach another door at the far end of the hall. There, standing framed in its archway, is an old man clad in plain brown robes. He looks at you and smiles knowingly.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome. Grand Master,</quote> he says, <quote>I have been expecting you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you have ever visited a hut on Raider<ch.apos/>s Road, the city of Tahou, or Lake Vorndarol (in previous Lone Wolf adventures), <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you have never visited any of these places, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swelling in your throat is choking your oesophagus, making it difficult for you to swallow: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Fighting back the pain, you force yourself to swallow hard and, within seconds, you feel the terrible plague symptoms begin to subside.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193"><link-text>Turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lower ranks of the Kai are proud and excited to have you among them. Your presence inspires their courage and you feel confident that they will fight exceptionally well in the coming battle. Lord Rimoah is also by your side, quietly intoning the words of battle spells in preparation for the lavas<ch.apos/> attack.</p>
- <p><quote>Here they come!</quote> shouts Sabre Fox from the far end of the battlements,</p>
- <p><quote>Take up your bows, my lords!</quote> you cry, as the first wave of winged beasts come sweeping down from out of the northern sky, <quote>and make every arrow count!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The burning wolf-thing comes crashing down into the midst of its following pack members, setting fire to four of their number. A collective howl arises, a hellish shrieking filled with fear, anger and pain. For a few moments the pack is thrown into turmoil, but this panic does not last and, with renewed tenacity, they soon come sweeping across the bridge towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull free from the shattered timbers and continue your swim, reaching the far bank as quickly as your aching lungs will allow. Using the corpses that litter the shoreline for cover, you crawl slowly from the river and slither on your stomach into the wood which commands this stretch of bank. Your stealth and your Kai camouflage skills keep you hidden from the watchful eyes of the Eldenoran archers who infest these trees, but they do not fool their keen-nosed war-dogs. You have barely reached the treeline when they begin to bark and howl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly there is a tremendous <onomatopoeia>Crack!</onomatopoeia> and a gaping chasm splits the ground wide open. With the hellish laughter of the Dark God Naar ringing in your ears, you are consumed by this fiery crevasse.</p>
- <p>Tragically, on the threshold of victory, your life and pour quest end here on the Plane of Darkness.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the narrow track for half a mile before arriving at a clearing. Here you discover the poorly-concealed remains of an encampment which, on closer examination, you are convinced was used by the Eldenoran bandits who attacked the village at Pinepeaks.</p>
- <p>Among the ashes of a campfire you find a small, soot-blackened silver seal which bears the star emblem of Eldenora. (If you wish to keep this Silver Seal, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.)</p>
- <p>Once satisfied that there is nothing else here of interest or value, you return with the troop to the red rock and continue east along the main trail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The speed and audacity of your crossing, coupled with your Kai camouflage skills, enable you to reach the Slovian side without being detected by the guards on either side of the river.</p>
- <p>As soon as your horse<ch.apos/>s hooves touch Slovian soil, you spur him onwards and disappear swiftly into the welcoming darkness of the plains beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92"><link-text>Turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The hall is lit by a hundred spluttering candies and the light of a log fire which blazes in the chamber<ch.apos/>s imposing stone hearth. Three tall arched windows, each glazed with stained glass panels, are set into the south wall, and an impressive collection of books and fine tapestries line the others. Clearly, Knight Tranius is a refined man whose tastes extend beyond hunting the occasional boar.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes, a concealed panel beside the fireplace slides open and a broad-shouldered man clad in a wolfskin coat and a silver helm steps into the hall.</p>
- <p><quote>Hail Tranius!</quote> says Nathor, <quote>It<ch.apos/>s good to<ch.ellips/></quote></p>
- <p>The Lord Constable<ch.apos/>s words of greeting die in his throat and immediately you sense that something is very wrong. You hear a bolt slide shut outside the door to the hall, sealing it closed, and your Kai senses suddenly scream a warning of impending danger.</p>
- <p><quote>You<ch.apos/>re not Tranius,</quote> shouts Nathor at the shadowy figure at the far end of the hall. <quote>By the gods! Who are you?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>It is good to see you again, Grand Master,</quote> he says, forcing a smile, <quote>I was expecting you. I received word yesterday from Queen Evaine telling me of your urgent journey. Yet it is unfortunate that your visit should come at this time, I would have hoped to have given you the kind of welcome you truly deserve.</quote> The Elector then introduces you to his generals who acknowledge you with soldierly salutes.</p>
- <p><quote>As you can see, we are at war, Grand Master,</quote> he says, sweeping a hand over the maps which lie strewn across his state table. <quote>The new ruler of Eldenora, a low-born blackguard by the name of Lutha who dares to adorn himself with the title <quote>Prince of Duadon</quote>, is attempting to seize our northern territories. We are locked in battle with his army of cut-throats near Holona and, though it pains me to have to admit this, were hard-pressed to contain his advance. This war has come without warning and we were ill-prepared. We have few reserves, insufficient to support the Holona garrison and to counter the many small units of Eldenoran horsemen who are ravaging our plains. This is a dark and testing time for us, Grand Master, but e<ch.apos/>er so, I shall old you all I can.</quote></p>
- <p>You learn that the Elector has already elicited, on your behalf, the help of High-Mayor Cordas of Casiorn. Cordas is reputedly the richest man in all of Magnamund. Manatine tells you that Cordas has ordered the construction of a sky-vessel to transport you swiftly to Sommerlund.</p>
- <p><quote>This craft is presently being built in Casiorn, and the High-Mayor has sent word that you should go there as quickly as you can. His teams of skilled artisans are working on the craft day and night, and he is confident that it will be completed in fifteen days<ch.apos/> time.</quote></p>
- <p>In times of peace, you would expect the 850-mile ride to Casiorn to take little more than two weeks to complete. But peace, always a fragile state in the Stornlands, has been shattered by Prince Lutha<ch.apos/>s unprovoked attack on Holona, a town through which you had hoped to travel. Anxiously, you ask the Elector how the wax against Eldenora will affect your chances of reaching Casiorn swiftly.</p>
- <p><quote>Sadly, I cannot predict the future, Grand Master,</quote> he replies, <quote>the war bodes ill for both our causes. However, I shall do what I am able to speed your journey onwards.</quote></p>
- <p>The Elector motions to one of his guardsmen who turns and leaves the War Room. He soon returns with another soldier who wears the uniform of a captain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204">If you have ever visited the Palmyrion military post at Stonewatch, in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the depths of its cavernous gullet, the dragon coughs forth a concentrated jet of white-hot flame that comes speeding towards your chest. Wide-eyed with fear, you leap aside desperately to avoid being incinerated by this lance of dragon-fire.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you possess Kai alchemy, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Please sir,</quote> she says once more. <quote>Are you not the Northland warrior, the one they call Lone Wolf? I was in attendance at the Elector<ch.apos/>s court when he awarded you the Star of Palmyrion for your victory over the Cener Druids of Ruel. I would be honoured if you would grace me with your company.</quote></p>
- <p>Intrigued by the young woman<ch.apos/>s account, and her high-bred charms, you step away from the bushes and approach her carriage door.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dare not allow yourself to believe that Guildmaster Banedon and the others are dead. You ask the King to be allowed to travel immediately to the Kai Monastery aboard your flying ship <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> so that you may be sure of their fate. King Ulnar considers your request, but he refuses his permission for you to fly to the monastery. He fears that <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> could be destroyed in the same manner that <cite>Skyrider</cite> was felled from the skies. He reasons that if Naar<ch.apos/>s minions were capable of wrecking a skyship that was protected by twelve powerful magicians, they would have little difficulty in destroying a skyship with no magical defences whatsoever. And, furthermore, he can ill afford to risk losing you in this fashion. You embody Sommerlund<ch.apos/>s only hope of victory against the forces of Naar in this dark hour.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8"><link-text>Turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On reaching the far bank, you use the corpses that litter the shoreline for cover. You wait here, absolutely motionless, for nearly fifteen minutes before crawling from the water and slithering on your stomach into the wood which commands this stretch of the river bank. Your stealth and your Kai camouflage skills keep you hidden from the watchful eyes of the Eldenoran archers who infest these trees, but they do not fool their keen-nosed war-dogs. You have barely reached the treeline when they begin to bark and howl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You help Nathor and the villagers to fight the fires which threaten to consume their humble homes, using your Magnakai skill of Nexus to good effect, and when you have saved all you can, you summon the troop together to assess the situation</p>
- <p>Six brigands and two Court Cavalry troopers were killed during the brief fight to secure the village. The villagers themselves have lost eight of their menfolk, with several others wounded and some missing; these are presumed to be hiding in the woods. They have retained most of their possessions but their abbey has been gutted by the fire which Holkar and his thugs started. Nathor conducts a burial for the slain villagers and his two men, during which he pledges that Queen Evaine will be informed of what happened here this day.</p>
- <p><quote>Her Majesty will see that justice is done,</quote> he assures the tearful gathering of peasants. <quote>The bandit-realm of Eldenora will be made to pay for this crime.</quote></p>
- <p>After the burial, Lord Nathor gives to the village elders a weighty purse of silver Lune and a horse which belonged to one of his slain men. It is a small token for the loss they have suffered, but one that is appreciated by the villagers. The other horse is given to you, to replace the steed that was killed beneath you during the ambush on the road.</p>
- <choice idref="sect190"><link-text>Turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You get to your feet and resume your steady climb towards the gate, now less than a hundred yards distant, but you have taken only a few dozen steps when suddenly another flight of lavas emerge from the Shadow Gate. You flatten yourself against the damp granite in a desperate attempt to avoid being seen, hut in your hurry you lose your footing on the slippery rocks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If it is 6<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect141">If it is 9 or higher, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to drag yourself up from the roadway, but your strength rapidly deserts you and you tumble, unconscious, back into the mud.</p>
- <p>Several hours later you regain consciousness and are able to muster sufficient strength to stand. Your innate Kai healing skills have saved you from the deadly plague virus which infects this town, but you have paid a grievous price.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have chosen is even (0, 2, 4. 6, 8), deduct 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current total. If the number you have picked is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), deduct 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you are still alive, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and raise your right arm, pointing it towards the belly of the swooping beast. A flash of blue-white light erupts at your fingertips, and an arc of crackling energy speeds from your hand towards the creature. It veers in mid-air to avoid the bolt but its reactions are too slow to escape being hit. The bolt rips a jagged hole in its left wing and, suddenly off-balanced by the wound, the beast loses control and slams into the ground with a sickening crunch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215"><link-text>Turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Elector Manatine permits you the use of his private chambers, which adjoin the War Boom, where you are able to get a few hours<ch.apos/> sleep before dawn. Then, shortly after sunrise, you bid the Elector and his generals farewell and leave the city, with Captain Cearmaine, in a military coach bound for Holona. An escort of cavalry outriders accompany this armoured carriage in case you should meet unexpectedly with a unit of roving Eldenorans during your journey east. Thankfully, the journey proves swill and uneventful and, as the day is turning to dusk, you find yourself approaching the military outpost of Stonewatch.</p>
- <p>You stay at this fort overnight and then continue on to Holona in the morning. For most of the journey you experience a sense of unease, a premonition that something is wrong, but it is not until you catch sight of the city, shortly before noon, that your fears are realized.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157"><link-text>Turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The severe heat and poisonous atmosphere is beginning to take its toll: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You sense that your Magnakai skill of Nexus is shielding your body from the worse effects of this hellish environment, but you cannot rely on it to protect you indefinitely. Already your tunic is smouldering and the soles of your boots are giving off wisps of blue smoke. You must escape from here soon, before you succumb to the heat and the toxic atmosphere.</p>
- <p>However, for the moment there is a more pressing danger to be faced. The dragon-creatures that you saw earlier are now advancing rapidly towards the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Queen Evaine commands the Lord Constable to take you to the citadel dungeons which are located several levels below the State Hall. Here, shackled o the dank stone wall of a rat-infested cell, is the man who was caught in a Garthen tavern plotting your murder. Limp and unconscious, he hangs by his wrists in chains, his emaciated body showing all too clearly the signs of recent tortures. A pot-bellied gaoler scoops a bucket of foul water from a trough by the cell door and revives the prisoner by pouring it unceremoniously over his head. Coughing and spluttering, the wretch stirs to consciousness. He raises his face and you sense that he recognizes immediately who you are; his eyes blaze with an undisguised hatred.</p>
- <p><quote>He<ch.apos/>s a tough <ch.apos/>un,</quote> growls the gaoler, <quote>I<ch.apos/>ve used all o<ch.apos/> me skills on <ch.apos/>im but <ch.apos/>e won<ch.apos/>t say who <ch.apos/>is paymaster be.</quote></p>
- <p>The fat gaoler reaches for a pair of long-handled pincers which are protruding from a brazier of hot coals.</p>
- <p><quote>Perhaps you<ch.apos/>ll be wanting to interrogate <ch.apos/>im yourself, sire?</quote> he says, offering you the pincers. Wisps of smoke curl from their sharpened tips which are red and glowing.</p>
- <p><quote>Aye, gaoler, there are questions I<ch.apos/>d like this man to answer. But I<ch.apos/>ll not be needing those,</quote> you reply, declining the use of the cruel pincers.</p>
- <p><quote>I prefer to rely on my own methods of interrogation.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you possess Kai-surge, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you possess neither of these Grand Master Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wait until the line of Eldenoran soldiers have filed past the entrance to the dug-out, then you slip outside and make your way swiftly along the trench. Suddenly there Is a terrific boom, and a brilliant splash of blue-white fire illuminates the distant bridge. It is the opening bombardment in yet another futile assault across the river.</p>
- <p>The trench ahead is empty; its owners have already gone forward to support the new attack. When you reach the end, you scramble over the muddy parapet and race head-down across a stretch of open ground towards a small wood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You do not slip very far before you are able to arrest your fall and descend at a slower pace. You find the Sun-Crystal lying wedged among the rocks and, with a growing sense of awe, you take hold of it and weigh it in your hand. Then you turn to look back at the Shadow Gate in order to gauge your throw.</p>
- <p>The halo of energy which surrounds the Gate begins to crackle fiercely, and your Kai instincts tingle with a strange and sinister premonition. You can sense that, on the Plane of Darkness, Naar has just consigned his newest champions to the Shadow Gate through which you escaped. His mighty dragon herd is on its way to Magnamund.</p>
- <p>As the first rays of the dawn sun spread across the surrounding rocks, you draw back your arm and hurl the Sun-Crystal into the gaping maw of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect350"><link-text>Turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The carriage door swings open and the beautiful young woman steps gracefully out on to the stony trail.</p>
- <p><quote>May I be so bold as to introduce myself,</quote> she says, pausing to adjust a broad-brimmed hat which is trimmed with black corvayl fur, as silky smooth as her flowing hair. <quote>I am the Baroness Coryene of the Lucia Province.</quote></p>
- <p>She offers her delicate hand and you kiss it in deference to her noble rank. Out of the corner of your eye you notice the leading horseman dismount and come to stand protectively by her side.</p>
- <p><quote>Oh, and this is my personal guard<ch.emdash/>Dorst.</quote></p>
- <p>You give the gruff-looking fellow a slight bow and he nods his head in response, albeit begrudgingly.</p>
- <p><quote>We are returning from a visit to my cousin<ch.apos/>s estate. We were hoping to reach Kalma by sunset, but we were delayed by bandits,</quote> she says, almost apologetically.</p>
- <p><quote>We made <ch.apos/>em pay dearly for wastin<ch.apos/> our time, though,</quote> adds Dorst, with quiet menace.</p>
- <p><quote>It appears that we shall now have to encamp here in the hills this night,</quote> says the Baroness. <quote>Perhaps you would care to join us, my Lord? I would feel so much safer if you did.</quote></p>
- <p>Despite Dorst<ch.apos/>s cutting glances, you agree to the Baroness<ch.apos/>s proposal. Then you produce the six trout that you caught earlier and offer them to her as a gift.</p>
- <p><quote>Why, thank you,</quote> she says, with a wide smile, <quote>they look<ch.ellips/> delicious.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect59"><link-text>Turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite not having made a telepathic contact with Guildmaster Banedon, you refuse to believe that he and Lord Rimoah are dead. You resolve instead to reach the Kai Monastery and destroy the Shadow Gate as soon as you are able and, strengthened by this resolution, you return to the council of war and announce your decision to the King. You show the council the Sun-Crystal that Gwynian gave you, and you tell them how you intend to use it.</p>
- <p>Ulnar and the barons applaud your plan and your steadfast courage. The King places under your command his elite Guard Cavalry regiment, so that you may be able to use them to break through the enemy<ch.apos/>s line at its weakest point and reach the Kai Monastery. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val, commander of the Guard Cavalry, knows where this weak point is and he will guide you to it.</p>
- <p>The King dissolves the council and, as the barons return to their armies in the field, he orders you to rest in his chambers for a few hours.</p>
- <p><quote>Get some sleep, Grand Master,</quote> he says, patting you paternally on the shoulder, <quote>you will need it. You ride with the Guard at dawn.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect94"><link-text>Turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You steel yourself for the impact, but you hit the flagstones with such numbing force that your preparation does little to lessen the injuries you receive to your legs and body (lose 12 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Moments later, you are hit by Nathor who comes crashing down upon your prone form. Your body softens his fall, but even so, the impact leaves him with a broken left ankle and severe cuts to his face and hands. Despite his obvious pain he manages to smile when he realizes that you are both still alive, revealing gaps where he is now missing two of his front teeth.</p>
- <p>Using your natural Kai curing skills, you repair your internal injuries sufficiently for you to be able to stand and assist your companion. Bravely Nathor stifles his urge to scream as you take hold of his shattered ankle. You summon your healing powers and transmit them through your hands to his injured foot (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by a further 4 points). You feel the warmth of your power start to reduce the swollen tissues and mend the broken bone, but before you can complete the cure, a yelling horde of bogus castle guardsmen come rushing from out of the gatehouse with their swords drawn. Cursing your luck, you unsheathe your weapon and crouch in readiness to meet their manic attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Castle guardsmen (imposters)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first spatterings of rain are dampening your shoulders as you approach the forest town<ch.apos/>s solitary inn. The smell and soft noises of horses waft from an adjoining stable, and the flickering orange light of an open fire can be seen shimmering through the bulls-eye glass of the inn<ch.apos/>s leaded windows. You halt outside the main door and stoop to read a weather-faded board that is fixed to the wall:</p>
- <p>The Towering Pine Inn Room & Stabling<ch.emdash/>2 Cold Crowns per night</p>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you possess sufficient Gold Crowns to stay here for the night, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lavas veers away from you and uses its wings to deflect the Sun-Crystal. With dismay you watch as the glowing crystal drops harmlessly among the rocks, below the entrance to the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you scramble over the jagged granite in a desperate attempt to retrieve the Sun-Crystal and try again, but as you are about to stretch out and close your hand upon it, the lavas swoops down and fixes its claws into your backpack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108"><link-text>Turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The river hack runs parallel to the Kinam for nearly a mile before bearing east and entering a coppice of tall conifers. On the far side of this cultivated wood you come to a bridge across a wide, fast-flowing tributary of the Kinam. The parapet of the bridge is lined with imposing stone statues, each depicting a past lord of Scade manor.</p>
- <p>In the distance you can now see Castle Tranius. Its curtain wall and fortified barbican are illuminated by torches which were lit, as is the custom here, an hour before sunset. On arriving at the gatehouse, Lord Nathor and the rest of you are welcomed into the castle keep where your horses are attended to. A trio of Knight Tranius<ch.apos/>s guards come to escort you to his hall and, as you follow them to the castle<ch.apos/>s upper chambers, Nathor asks after Guetor the Boarmaster, the leader of Knight Tranius<ch.apos/>s hunt.</p>
- <p><quote>He<ch.apos/>s no longer with us,</quote> answers one of the guards, tersely, <quote>he<ch.apos/>s gone away.</quote></p>
- <p>Before Nathor ran enquire further as to the whereabouts of his old hunting instructor, you are ushered into the castle<ch.apos/>s main hall and asked to wait a few minutes for Knight Tranius to arrive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect120"><link-text>Turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you regain your footing and flatten yourself against the rocks. The granite is cold and damp against your cheek as you watch the second flight soar into the sky and fly away, heading due east.</p>
- <p>You resume your climb quickly. When you are within thirty yards of the Shadow Gate, you draw back your arm and get ready to hurl the Sun-Crystal into its inky black core. At this moment, a piercing shriek rises above the Gate<ch.apos/>s throbbing hum and, to your horror, you look up to see a lavas diving towards your chest. Hurriedly you throw the Sun-Crystal before the creature can press home its attack.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack leader comes leaping through the air as you are unsheathing your weapon. You only just manage to sidestep in time to avoid being slammed to the ground beneath its vast bulk. As it flashes past, you spin around and sever its spine with one mighty, back-handed blow.</p>
- <p>Within seconds, the remaining pack members appear. They catch the scent of their leader<ch.apos/>s blood and it drives them into a frenzy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect166">If you possess Assimilance, and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If you do not possess his skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With painstaking care, you inch your way up the side of the ravine. Bits of rock and soil crumble away beneath your feet with alarming regularity, and often you are left dangling precariously in mid-air, holding on by just the fingers of one hand.</p>
- <p>You are within sight of the top, more than a hundred feet from the base of the ravine, when suddenly there is a thundering roar. You look up and, to your mounting horror, you see a deluge of rock and stone come tumbling towards your face.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess a Rope, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Grand Master discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect329">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The leading wolf-creatures swarm around you and then attack with chilling ferocity. As they leap at you from all sides, desperately you lash out, left and right, in an attempt to cut your way free from their deadly circle.</p>
- <p>Hounds of Vikkak <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 50 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 50</p>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you slay the last of the line of lavas, you feel the wrath of Naar sweep down upon your back. The ground beneath your feet begins to shudder and fissures appear in the black soil, running red with glowing lava. You struggle to reach the entrance to the Shadow Gate, barely ten yards distant, as the ground is transformed into a heaving molten mass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect228">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, and have attained the rank of Rat Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon the instant you defeat the spirit of Roark, the whirlwind ceases and all the airborne debris drops harmlessly to the ground. Roark<ch.apos/>s ghostly apparition mouths a silent scream before it, and its hideous mount, melt into the shadows of the night. You sense that the evil which pervaded this sad city has, at last, been banished for good.</p>
- <p>You sleep easily this night, and you awake the following morning to the sound of birdsong. It brings a smile to your face to hear that life is already returning to Amory. You gather your equipment and, as you are leaving, you are blessed by an unexpected stroke of luck. By accident you step on a rotten board, and, when you pull your foot free, you discover 10 Gold Crowns hidden in the hollow beneath the floorboards. (You may record these on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, maximum allowances permitting.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect83"><link-text>Turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recognize these creatures at once<ch.emdash/>they are Lavas, winged-horrors from the Plane of Darkness, the domain of the Dark God himself. The memory of your previous encounter with these creatures sends a shiver coursing down your spine.</p>
-
- <p>With a silent signal you bring the regiment to a halt. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val leans towards you Iron his saddle and whispers: <quote>Here is the enemy who have your Monastery surrounded, Grand Master, and this is the weakest point in their line.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I know this place,</quote> you reply quietly. <quote>the monastery lies over the next ridge of trees. If we are to break through here, we must be quick about it. These creatures can take to the skies<ch.emdash/>it would not take them long to summon reinforcements.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You are right, Grand Master. The risks are indeed great, but I and my men men are willing to take them to ensure your return in the monastery of the Kai. You must get through. You are the only one who can destroy the Shadow Gate and remove this curse from our land.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Very well then, Captain,</quote> you reply, unsheathing your weapon. <quote>Pass the order to prepare to charge.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recoil from the insidious green cloud and fall back towards the cell door. Your mastery of Nexus protects you from this highly poisonous gas, but the gaoler and Lord Nathor are not so fortunate: both are vulnerable to its deadly effect. Choking and retching, they collapse to the floor, their fingers scrabbling at their swelling throats as they fight desperately for breath. You grab hold of their tunics, one in each hand, and drag their bodies me of the cell into the cleaner air of the corridor beyond. Here you use your Magnakai healing disciplines to ease the effects of the poison gas; your skill and the swiftness of your actions save them from a painful, suffocating death.</p>
- <p><quote>Wh<ch.ellips/> what happened?</quote> wheezes Nathor, as he slowly recovers from the deadly gas.</p>
- <p>You peer into the cell at he man now hanging limply in chains, then you turn to Nathor and say: <quote>Suicide. A suicide and an attempted murder. The prisoner has just killed himself with a poison pellet and it seems his last wish was to take all three of us with him.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calling upon your Kai Mastery, you cause yourself to slip into a coma-like state which gives every outwardly appearance of death.</p>
- <p>High above, you hear Prince Lutha bowling delightedly at the sight of your seemingly lifeless body. He calls for his guards and, a few moments later, you hear them entering the pit. They pronounce you dead, then there Follows the tinny sound of metal scraping on metal before you feel yourself being lifted by the shoulders and feet and lowered into a slippery chute. A wave of panic makes you awake from your death-like trance with a start. This sudden and unexpected resurrection makes the guards scream and drop you. They scurry away, gibbering like idiots, and you are left to slide headlong down a chute which leads to a fast-flowing underground river. You hit the cold waters head-first and are carried swiftly away by the strong undercurrent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For several minutes you ride the river, keeping to the centre of its course to avoid being dashed against the rough rock walls of the tunnel through it flows. Then you glimpse a moonlit opening in the distance and, a few moments later, you are tumbling from an outflow at the base of Duadon<ch.apos/>s east city wall. You fall amidst a torrent of frothing water and hit the surface of a river twenty feet below.</p>
- <p>Immediately you strike out with your hands and rise as quickly as you can, spitting out a mouthful of foul-tasting water as soon as your head breaks the surface. The current pushes you towards the river bank where a group of beggars, clad in mouldering rags, are sifting through the flotsam that is being flushed out of the city. You note with disgust that this floating debris consists mainly of corpses, many the victims of Prince Lutha<ch.apos/>s brutal regime. The beggars take fright and scatter when you stagger out of the water. You watch them run away, then you hurry towards the beckoning safety of a wood which borders upon a rutted river road. Here you spend a damp uncomfortable night trying to formulate a new plan of action that will enable you to reach Casiorn as quickly as possible. At length you resolve to go east and attempt to cross the River Storn to the Salonese city of Rhem, located on its east bank. It has the reputation for being a tough and lawless place but you feel sure it can be no worse than Duadon.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lead the regiment across the ford, keeping an eye peeled on the sky above In case the enemy should appear without warning from over the treeline. But the danger to the regiment comes not from above; it is at ground level.</p>
- <p>As you are leaving the ford and ascending the slope of the river bank, suddenly there is a tremendous explosion. Unwittingly, you have ridden your horse through an invisible beam, a beam which has triggered a device hidden earlier among the rocks by Naar<ch.apos/>s minions. The explosion sends sharp splinters of rock tearing into horses and men with deadly effect. The blast knocks you from your saddle and, as you fall backwards into the cold water, a splinter of rock slices through your left arm and another tears open your upper left thigh: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the stinging pain you struggle to your feet and use your Kai healing skills to staunch the bleeding. As the dust of the explosion clears, you count two horses and two men lying dead in the water. Captain D<ch.apos/>Val has lost his horse, but miraculously he has survived with no more than scratches to his face and legs, Quickly you attend to the wounded, using your healing skills to ease their suffering. D<ch.apos/>Val, wary of the vulnerability of his regiment, orders his men to abandon the dead and cross the ford as quickly as they can.</p>
- <p>Cursing your ill luck, you hurriedly remount and join him at the head of the column.</p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dorst spreads out an oilskin blanket and you all gather round, seating yourself cross-legged on the ground. He then deals five cards to each man and opens the betting with a stake of five Lune. The game is Taluka<ch.emdash/>common in the inns of Palmyrion and especially popular among professional gamblers. With your Kai abilities it is easy for you to know every card that is being played, and so, rather than risk being called a cheat, you simply go through the motions of playing the game, maintaining exactly the same amount of money you begin with.</p>
- <p>After half an hour or so, you suddenly realize that Dorst is cheating.</p>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to expose his cheating, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you decide to quit the game, <link-text>turn instead to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel the searing heat of the dragon<ch.apos/>s breath blister your legs as you dive headlong to avoid its deadly jet of flame.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 12 or less, deduct 1 from the number you have picked. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 13 or more, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If your total score is now 2 or lower, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect213">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For hours the sound of the Kraan<ch.apos/>s incessant cry echoes among the surrounding hills, making it difficult for you to sleep at all this night. As you lie awake listening to its ghastly caw, a sense of foreboding invades your mind and, despite your strong will, you feel powerless to overcome it. Restless and agitated, you get up and pace around the cellar until, at last, the cawing ceases and a chorus of birdsong ushers in the dawn (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points because of lack of rest).</p>
- <p>You join the troop for breakfast with Rasbarin and his brothers. During this meal, the elderly monk offers you a Flask of Aquas to fortify you on the road ahead, and a Talisman of Ishir to ward off hostile creatures (these are both Backpack Items). After breakfast, Nathor thanks Rasbarin for his hospitality and makes a donation of 50 Lune to his monastery. (If, before leaving, you too would like to make a donation, erase from your Anion Chart the number of Gold Crowns you decide to give to the holy Vaderish brethren.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">To continue, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After your long ride to Varetta, the youth<ch.apos/>s offer of rest and assistance sounds inviting. You dismount and approach the door, but as you are about to enter, your Kai sixth sense screams a warning.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a gang of scurrilous rogues emerge from the shadows and come creeping towards your back. Swiftly you unsheathe your weapon and spin around to face them as they launch their cowardly attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Thieves of Varetta</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">36</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect222">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The cry of the war-dogs grows steadily louder until the Eldenoran archers let them off the leash. Then, like a wave of hellish demons, the yellow-eyed hounds come bounding through the trees, homing-in directly on your scent. The leading war-dog, a great grey beast with teeth that glint like polished daggers, storms through the foliage less than twenty yards from where you are crouching. It fixes you with its gruesome stare and turns towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you possess a bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Holona is in turmoil. The approach roads and outlying fields are littered with scores of broken wagons, dead horses, and the ruined impediments of war. Palmyrion soldiers sit dejectedly on the frost-hardened earth, their glazed eyes and bandaged limbs bearing grim testimony to the bitter fighting that is taking place just a few miles to the north. Battle-weary officers ride among these exhausted men, cursing and coaxing them in a half-hearted attempt to rally them to arms. Few heed their call.</p>
- <p>Inside the city walls the situation is tense. Every available dwelling is packed to overflowing with wounded soldiers, and the civilian populace, displaced from their homes by the army<ch.apos/>s needs, wander the streets and alleyways in a state of shocked confusion, greatly adding to the chaos.</p>
- <p>Captain Cearmaine orders his driver to the Canatarium, the largest of Holona<ch.apos/>s municipal halls, where General Foucharl, the Palmyrion commander, has established his headquarters. On entering this crowded building, a young lieutenant rushes up to Cearmaine and informs him that his son has been wounded in the battle now raging at the Reloni bridge.</p>
- <p><quote>I must go to him, Grand Master,</quote> he says, his voice choked with emotion, <quote>I<ch.apos/>m told that he has not long to live.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you wish to go with Captain Cearmaine to see his wounded son, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If you choose not to accompany him, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the top of the Tower of the Sun you survey the mountainous northern approaches with growing trepidation. Banedon is by your side, so too are Kai Masters Black Hawk and Wild Weasel and a score of Kai warmarns and savants. You sense the lower ranks of the Kai are proud and excited to be stationed here with their Grand Master. Your presence inspires their courage and you feel confident that they will fight exceptionally well in the coming battle.</p>
- <p>You look down at the shattered wreck of the <cite>Skyrider</cite> lying in the monastery grounds far below, and I reminds you of your sky journey from Casiorn to Holmgard. You tell Banedon about the <cite>Cloud-dancer</cite> and you promise him that, if your mission to destroy the Shadow Gate is successful, you will make a gift of it to him in recognition of the help he has given the Kai in your absence.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank you, Grand Master,</quote> he says, <quote>yours is a most gracious gesture,</quote></p>
- <p>Then the first of the lavas horde are seen, their burnished wings glinting in the moonlight.</p>
- <p><quote>Here they come!</quote> shouts Black Hawk, from the far end of the tower.</p>
- <p><quote>Take up your bows, my lords!</quote> you cry, as the first wave of these winged beasts comes sweeping down from out of the northern sky, <quote>and make every arrow count!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the heaped bodies of the bogus castle guardsmen and sheathe your bloodied weapon. Then you take hold of Nathor and heave him across the neck of a saddled horse. Quickly you mount this steed and urge it to the gallop, bursting forth from the stables at breakneck speed. Outside, the castle keep is alive with screams and curses as you steer your horse towards the gatehouse, where, to your mounting horror, you see that the portcullis is beginning to fall.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Telegnosis, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Lord or higher, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 2. If you possess Animal Mastery add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect230">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You finish the last of the horse scouts with a crushing blow to the head, and, as he collapses to the ground, you spin about and vault on to the freed horse<ch.apos/>s back. But before you can spur him to the gallop and make good your escape, you hear the ominous click of a crossbow being cocked in the doorway behind you.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After bidding a hurried farewell to the Lord Constable and his men, you take a fresh horse and leave the inn by a door at the rear of the stables. Some of the mob have gathered in an adjoining alleyway, but aided by your Kai camouflage skills, you evade these bloodthirsty thugs with ease.</p>
- <p>Keeping to the smaller alleys and passages, you make your way across Scade unseen and then head north towards the open plains. You ride all night, using your infra-vision to help guide your horse trough the lush grasslands and keep watch for potential dangers. As the hours slip past you cannot help but think about Nathor and the men of his troop; they are risking their lives by staying behind as bait for the mob. You admire their courage and it strengthens your resolve to return home to Sommerlund. Should the Lord Constable and his men have to pay or your escape with their lives, then you are determined that their sacrifice shall not be a wasted one.</p>
- <p>During your long night ride, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">To continue, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you struggle to reach the Shadow Gate as the ground heaves and jolts beneath your sinking feet.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect117">If your total is now 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are more than two-thirds of the way across the river when you become entangled in the submerged wreckage of a siege engine. You fight to free yourself but, in doing so, you quickly expend the last of the air in your lungs.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <p>If you possess any Sabito, or if you possess mastery of Kai-alchemy, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Nexus, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your advanced Kai healing powers on the young man<ch.apos/>s wound and cause the punctured tissues to knit together (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 3 points). Your treatment deadens his pain and revives him, but you know that this remission is but temporary; the poison in his blood is too strong and too well-established to be neutralized by your Kai powers.</p>
- <p>Through clenched teeth, he forces himself to speak. You hear him tell his father that Prince Lutha<ch.apos/>s army is being aided by a sinister group of Cener Druids and renegade nadziranim magicians. Lutha himself possesses a ring of power, which bestows upon him an invulnerability to weapons. The boy says this ring must be taken from him if he is to be slain.</p>
- <p>Gradually, the effects of your healing powers wear off and the brave young man slips into a sleep from which he will not awaken.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you are confronted by one of these beasts who attempts to strike you from the battlements with its horny tail. You leap to avoid its scything attack, draw your weapon in mid-air, and swing your first blow the moment your feet return to the flagstones of the North Watch.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Kai ability, you conjure up a fog from the forest floor to conceal your position. Shielded by this supernatural mist, you manage to evade the war-dog pack and make good an escape into the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moments before you reach him, he throws the young woman and her child to the ground and spins around to face you, his dagger held poised to slash at your throat. He strikes and you dodge his first clumsy blow with ease. As he is about to strike out for a second time, you raise your weapon and aim a scything blow at his head.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran thug (drunk)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">30</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ask a street trader the way to the Halls of Learning and he points impatiently to an avenue on the west side of the square. A rusty plate fixed to the corner building says: Quill Street.</p>
- <p>You ride along this narrow avenue, which is flanked by aromatic jala houses and perfumeries, until it turns abruptly right into a wider thoroughfare called Brass Street. A smile cracks your travel-grimy face when you see the courtyard entrance to a grand building. It has changed much since you were last here, but despite its new brick and marble fa<ch.ccedil/>ade you recognise Varetta<ch.apos/>s Halls of Learning.</p>
- <p>You ride along a gravelled path to a fountain where you stop to ask a brown-robed scholar if he mows where Gwynian can be found. Without speaking, he points to a nearby hall. A sign hanging over its richly-carved oak door says: LIBRARY. You thank the robed man and dismount from your horse, leaving him tied to a ring which is set into the wall. Then you push open the door and enter the library<ch.apos/>s cool interior.</p>
- <p>Countless thousands of books and parchments crowd the stone shelves of this magnificent library. Your eyes travel along them until they reach another door at the far end of the hall. There, standing Framed in the arch, is the man whose help you seek.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> says Gwynian the Sage, <quote>I have been expecting you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect268"><link-text>Turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your keen Kai senses detect a faint aroma in the air, a sickly sweet smell which you recognize immediately. It is the aroma of disease and decay<ch.emdash/>the ghastly cloying smell of plague.</p>
- <p>Alerted by your acute Kai senses to the tragedy which has befallen the town of Nursha, you skirt around its perimeter before taking the road which heads east towards Abisko.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3"><link-text>Turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The young man gets up off his knees and greets you with a friendly smile. He is unusually talkative for a guildsman and you soon learn that his name is Frello, and that he is a journeyman from the Silversmiths Guild of Vanamor. He has stopped here to offer up a prayer to Ishir to protect him from <quote>bad strangers on the trail</quote>. It appears that he was robbed yesterday by some Eldenorans on the road out of Vanamor. He offers to share half a loaf of bread with you, but you decline his generosity, thanking him nonetheless. You sense that it is all the food he has. Mindful of wasting time, you bid him good luck and then continue your journey east.</p>
- <choice idref="sect19"><link-text>Turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You signal to Captain D<ch.apos/>Val to bring the regiment to a halt. Then, as soon as they are stationary, you dismount and move into the undergrowth alone. Stealthily you advance towards the boot, suspecting it to be another of the enemy<ch.apos/>s booby traps, but when you get to within a few feet you see that it is no trap. A knot tightens in the pit of your stomach and a tear wells up in your eye as you look with pity at what lies here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect245"><link-text>Turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your Kai mastery to conjure up a dense fog which fills the pit. You hear Lutha cursing you vehemently, for he can no longer see where you are. In frustration, he causes a whirling blast of power to surge from the ring and sweep down the shaft of the pit. You are buffeted by a wave of evil psychic energy (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) but this power is unfocused and you quickly recover.</p>
- <p>Seizing the advantage, you call on your Magnakai skills of Pathsmanship to aid you as you begin the difficult climb out of the pit. The ascent becomes a race against time; you must reach the open trapdoor before the mist clears.</p>
- <p>You are pulling yourself through the opening when Lutha sees you. He attempts to kick you with his right foot, but you twist away in time to avoid the vicious attack and you tug his left leg, pulling him off balance. This move buys you the few seconds you need to get to your feet. As you rise he comes at you again, this time with a dagger in his hand.</p>
- <p>Prince Lutha (with Ring of Power) <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 54 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 39</p>
- <p>While wearing the Ring of Power, Lutha is immune to all fonts of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow glances off the Dragons lower eyelid and its tip gouges a furrow of black tissue from the cornea of his eye. He reacts to the sudden, agonizing pain by emitting a ground-shuddering roar. Wildly he stomps his massive forefeet down into the black soil and sends splashes of molten mud and flame soaring into the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Mind Charm</spell> and point your hand at the trooper<ch.apos/>s face. Instantly he relaxes and becomes entirely susceptible to your psychic commands. You will him to turn around and close the door to the hut and, as he is obeying your silent order, you mount his horse and escape into the woods.</p>
- <p>You keep to the trees and head south in a wide arc around the Eldenoran settlement at Fabri. During your ride through the woodland, you discover the following items in the bags and blanket roll which are attached to the horse<ch.apos/>s saddle:</p>
- <p>Sword</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Tinderbox</p>
- <p>Blanket</p>
- <p>Bow</p>
- <p>Quiver containing 5 arrows</p>
- <p>12 Lune (equivalent to 3 Gold Crowns)</p>
- <p>Spyglass</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Shortly before sunset, you emerge from the trees at a place where three trails meet. A wooden signpost propped against a boulder indicates three directions, destinations, and distances:</p>
- <p>North<ch.endash/>Chod<ch.endash/>250 miles</p>
- <p>West<ch.endash/>Holona<ch.endash/>50 miles</p>
- <p>South<ch.endash/>Tenzha<ch.endash/>20 miles</p>
- <p>You are anxious to leave hostile Eldenoran territory as soon as possible and, after checking your <a idref="map">map</a>, you set off to the south, towards the Slovian border town of Tenzha.</p>
- <p>During your ride, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">To continue, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Ten days after leaving Vadera, the <cite>Saxin</cite> drops anchor in Varnos harbour in Garthen<ch.emdash/>the crown capital of Talestria. The sleek and elegant lines of the Lencian craft contrast starkly with the drab, functional hulls of the merchant ships and dhows which crowd this city-port<ch.apos/>s jetties and wharfs. Lencian craft are a rare sight in Garthen, and the <cite>Saxin</cite> is the rarest of Lencian craft; it is no wonder that its arrival stirs a frenzy of interest and speculation among the citizens of this capital.</p>
- <p>Word of your arrival travels quickly to the Royal Citadel and a troop of Queen Evaine<ch.apos/>s court cavalry are dispatched to the harbour. They are led by a stern-faced man who wears the uniform and gold insignia of the Lord Constable, the highest military rank in the Talestrian army. He brings his column of regal horsemen to a halt at the quayside, then he dismounts and strides forward to welcome you in person as you disembark from the ship.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you have ever visited Garthen or Torgar in a previous <cite>Lone Wolf</cite> adventure, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you have not, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For two days you follow this trail through the great forest of Salony. During your ride it strikes you that the weather seems to be reflecting the nature of the people who dwell in this region<ch.emdash/>cold and inhospitable. They do not take kindly to strangers, especially those riding alone.</p>
- <p>On the morning of the third day, you reach a small village called Hopforst which stands at the edge of the great forest. To the west of the village you can now see the snow-capped mountain peaks of the Ceners, and to the north stretches an open expanse of rough grassland dotted with thickets of larch and pine.</p>
- <p>As dusk is drawing its curtain of shadow over the land, you see in the distance the decaying walls of a derelict city. A broken sign by the roadside says that this place is called Amory, yet the newish track which branches off the road and avoids the city gate tells you that travellers on this road no longer visit here. It has begun to rain again and you are quietly dreading having to spend another night out in the open. Tempted by the promise of shelter, you approach Amory and enter the city by a gate that hangs haphazardly from its hinges.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stoically you swim against the powerful current and reach the distant shore, breathless and exhausted, but glad to have escaped in one piece from the hostile land of Eldenora.</p>
- <p>Once you have fully recovered, you put on your boots and cloak and take stock of your surroundings. You have emerged from the Storn at a wooded stretch of riverbank, less than a mile south of the city of Rhem. You set off along a track heading north and within a few minutes, you catch sight of the city walls and its famous horseshoe-shaped harbour.</p>
- <p>You enter the city by its south gate, using your Kai camouflage skills and your natural stealth to avoid the attentions of the watchful guards. Once inside, you merge with the crowds and soon find yourself in a square that is overshadowed by the twin towers of Rhem Cathedral. An avenue runs along the cathedral<ch.apos/>s south side and, at its far end, your eye is drawn to a rusty suit of armour which stands beside the door to a dingy-looking shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to enter this armoury, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you decide not to enter, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take careful aim at one of the leading lavas. As it dips its head and opens its jaw, you release your straining bowstring and send your shaft whistling towards its head. The fire-hardened tip penetrates its eye and, with a hideous shriek, it spins end over end before crashing into the parapet of the Tower.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire at their eyes!</quote> you shout, and a cloud of Kai arrows are sent screaming through the sky to seek their elusive mark. More than half find their target, decimating the first wave of the lavas attack at a single stroke, yet those winged creatures who do survive this deadly volley are quickly among the defenders on the tower. Suddenly you are confronted by one of these beasts who attempts to bat you over the parapet with its horny tail. You leap to avoid its scything attack, draw your weapon in mid-air, and strike your first blow the moment your feet return to the Tower<ch.apos/>s flagstones.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack leader is a ferocious creature whose supernatural will is far too strong to be turned by your powers of animal control. Your attempts at repelling him prove futile, and, with their kill now in sight, these howling beasts increase their speed. Hurriedly you unsheathe your weapon as they come streaming across the bridge towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144"><link-text>Turn to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With Sabre Fox at your side, you climb the circular stairs to the Grand Hall of the Tower of the Sun. Excitedly the young Kai master announces your arrival to the battle-weary Kai who are gathered here, and, at first, they look at you in stunned disbelief. Then the truth of what they see sinks in and they give vent to a loud cheer that can be heard all throughout the monastery.</p>
- <p>The news of your return spreads like wildfire. Two of the first to welcome you back are your friend Guildmaster Banedon, and your trusted advisor Lord Rimoah.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank Ishir you are alive, Banedon,</quote> you say clasping his hand in friendship. <quote>In Holmgard they fear that you and Rimoah were killed aboard your skyship. It gladdens my heart to see this is not so.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And it warms me to see you safely home, Grand Master,</quote> he replies, <quote>though we<ch.apos/>ve been hard-pressed to keep your home safe in your absence,</quote> adds Lord Rimoah, with a wry smile.</p>
- <p><quote>You both have my deepest thanks,</quote> you reply. <quote>You took a great risk in corning to the aid of the Kai. I have seen what became of your skyship, Banedon. You were indeed fortunate to have survived.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye,</quote> he replies, sadly. <quote>Yet, alas, three of my Brotherhood were not so blessed. They perished when the lavas dragged us from the skies.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Take heart, Banedon, for their deaths will not be in vain. They shall be avenged.</quote> And with these prophetic words you take the Sun-Crystal from your pocket and show it to your grieving friend. <quote>With this crystal I shall destroy the Shadow Gate and put an end to Naar<ch.apos/>s evil plan.</quote></p>
- <p>Together with Banedon and Rimoah, you make a tour of the monastery to assess for yourself the extent of the battle damage. Your presence among the young Kai greatly improves their morale and strengthens their resolve to withstand the lavas<ch.apos/> siege. You Ask every area of the monastery, including the Lore Hall of Solaris where the bodies of those slain in battle have been layed out, awaiting burial. It saddens you to see so many Kai dead and, as you walk among their still ranks, you recognize many in whom you had held high hopes; Spring Rain, Eastwind, Sharp Dove, Deep Heart. Frost Lark, and Firefly. As you turn to leave the Lore Hall, you vow to Banedon and Rimoah that the sacrifice they have made will never be forgotten.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256"><link-text>Turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride to an overturned wagon that lies within thirty yards of the river<ch.apos/>s edge. To the wide-eyed astonishment of the three soldiers who are sheltering here from a hail of naptha and crossbow bolts, you leap from your horse and sprint headlong towards the river. The moment you hit the freezing water, you stay submerged and swim to the opposite bank. Once there, you make use of the corpses that litter the shoreline to conceal your presence while you observe the enemy trenches.</p>
- <p>The Eldenoran assault troopers are well dug in. Furthermore, they are aided by a Cener Druid who occupies a nearby trench. He is peering through what, at first glance, appears to be a giant magnifying glass.</p>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you possess Assimilance, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect207">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your deadly battle-skill leaves the brigands shocked and bloodied. With ease you are able to disentangle yourself from the fight and escape across the open plain. Two of the bandits attempt to pursue you, but they soon lose heart and give up the chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340"><link-text>Turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your slain horse crashes to the ground and you are thrown through the air. You land among the boulders and bracken which border the hill road, but your swift Kai reflexes prevent you from sustaining serious injury: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Bruised but unshaken, you spring to your feet in time to see a yelling horde of leather-clad men, each brandishing a sword or a spear, come rushing from hiding places among the surrounding trees. As they close in upon you, you draw your weapon and prepare to fight for your life.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran ambushers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your first reaction is to back away from this strange old man and reach for the hilt of your weapon, but then your Kai senses tell you that he means you no harm. You focus your psychic powers at his mind and, in an instant, you sense that he has summoned you here to aid you.</p>
- <p><quote>I am Gwynian the Sage,</quote> he says, meekly. <quote>I am a humble servant of the Gods Kai and Ishir. I seek to help you, Grand Master. Will you not listen to my wisdom?</quote></p>
- <p>You nod in wary agreement and allow the old man to usher you through the archway into an adjoining chamber. Here you see strange floating bulbs of light that illuminate a stone table covered with charts and scrolls.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well, Gwynian, what news have you of Sommerlund?</quote> you ask, sceptically.</p>
- <p><quote>Grave news,</quote> replies the old man, with an ominous tone. He picks up a chart from the table and traces a finger across the intricate lines and calculations that embellish its ancient yellowed surface.</p>
- <p><quote>The Dark God Naar has opened a Shadow Gate in the Durncrag mountains, a corridor between our world and his. By means of this corridor he has sent a host of winged creatures<ch.emdash/>the Lavas<ch.emdash/>to assail your monastery. It is his plan to destroy the young order of Kai warriors while you are not able to lead them. The Shadow Gate opened at the time of the last full moon and, since then, the Kai Monastery has been attacked many times. Naar<ch.apos/>s servants have your stronghold encircled and cut off from the armies of King Ulnar, who has repeatedly sought to break the siege. Your Kai have withstood the attacks well, Lone Wolf, but they are weakening. Only you can save them now.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But how?</quote> you ask, shaken by Gwynian<ch.apos/>s account of the events which have occurred during your absence from the monastery. <quote>If the armies of King Ulnar are powerless to break the siege, how can I hope to save my brethren?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Do not despair, Lone Wolf,</quote> replies Gwynian, reassuringly. <quote>All is not yet lost. You can save your brave order by closing the gate through which Naar sends his Lavas minions.</quote></p>
- <p>You are about to ask how you could possibly achieve this, how you could close the Shadow Gate, but your urgent question is forestalled when Gwynian raises his hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Patience for just a moment, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, and he allows himself a smile. <quote>I, humble Gwynian, possess the means by which you can thwart the Dark God<ch.apos/>s murderous plan.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hasty dive lands you upon the chest of a sleeping Eldenoran officer who awakes with a start. Before he can cry out, you punch him squarely or the jaw, knocking him unconscious. As you get to your feet you notice that scattered on his makeshift bunk are several leather bags and scraps of paper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you wish to silt through these items, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect133">If you choose to get ready to leave this dug-out as soon as the coast is clear, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sides of the ravine are composed of gravel and shale which is loose and treacherous underfoot, yet our natural agility enables you to make the descent about too much difficulty. Climbing up the far side, however, proves to be a far harder task than expected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your Nat mastery for protection and, gradually, you feel the pain subside. Flashing motes of light are beginning to whirl past you in the inky blackness, and faint sounds are reaching your ears, emanating from a pinpoint of light in the far distance. This speck of light steadily grows until it seems to fill your senses, and, with an abruptness that leaves you gasping for breath, you suddenly find yourself lying face-down on a slab of damp granite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The woman reaches to her purse and counts out 40 silver Lune into the cleric<ch.apos/>s trembling hands, and all the while she praises him loudly for along the pain from her head. The cleric, whose name is Matho, sheepishly accepts her generous donation. Then, quite suddenly, he is swamped by the crowd of onlookers who all rush the stage at once. Each one waves a money purse and demands that he cure them as well. The frail old man is in danger of being crushed to death until you rescue him from this agitated crowd.</p>
- <p>Once safely outside, he offers you all of the woman<ch.apos/>s donation, for he knows only too well that it was your healing abilities which cured her, and not his own. (If you wish to accept this money, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as 40 Lune).</p>
- <p><quote>Where are you bound for, stranger?</quote> he asks.</p>
- <p><quote>The east,</quote> you reply.</p>
- <p><quote>That<ch.apos/>s where I<ch.apos/>ve journeyed from. Perhaps I can offer you a word of caution, eh? There<ch.apos/>s plague in the Stornlands this year. You would be well to avoid the region if you can. If you can<ch.apos/>t, well, this potion will protect you. I can at least guarantee that.</quote></p>
- <p>The old cleric pulls a small flask from his pocket and offers it to you (if you wish to accept this potion, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as Matho<ch.apos/>s Potion).</p>
- <p>Then the old cleric accompanies you back to the blacksmithy where he, too, is having his mount re-shoed. You collect your horse, and he collects his ragged old mule, then you bid each other good luck and farewell before going your separate ways.</p>
- <choice idref="sect315"><link-text>Turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Stealthily you approach the nearest horse, using your Magnakai Discipline of animal control to keep him calm as you untie his reins. But you have only just released them from the rail when suddenly the door of the hut swings open and you find yourself confronted by the horse<ch.apos/>s rider<ch.emdash/>an Eldenoran cavalry scout.</p>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you possess Kai-surge, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect174">If you possess Kai alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you possess neither of these Grand Master Disciplines, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is the mid-afternoon when the troop resumes the long journey east to Vanamor. During the ride, Lord Nathor voices his grave concern that Eldenoran bandits should be operating in the heart of his country: they have rarely dared to venture this far from home before. Although he does not say so, you sense that he knows the reason why they have become so bold of late. They have been sent here to find and kill you.</p>
- <p>The road climbs out of the valley and zig-zags its way through the forested hills to a high pass. Beyond this pass there stretches a wide expanse of lush grassland where herds of wild deer roam and graze freely. It is late in the afternoon when you catch sight of a procession approaching on the road ahead. Mostly they are men dressed in ragged brown robes, and one is carrying aloft a grimy banner which bears the image of a lightning bolt set upon a full moon.</p>
- <p><quote>Shoni pilgrims,</quote> says Nathor, dismissively. <quote>They<ch.apos/>re wandering beggar-monks who have taken a vow of poverty. Many in Garthen regard them as just a gang of scroungers who pretend to be a holy order so they can fleece the foolish. I suggest we ignore them and press on.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you wish to take Nathor<ch.apos/>s advice and ignore the Shoni pilgrims, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you decide to stop and talk to them, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the ravine the land becomes increasingly barren. You press on, following a dried watercourse to a plateau which is dotted with scrub and stunted pines. Here, beneath the twisted boughs of a dead tree, you make camp for the night and settle down to sleep. Before you rest, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal and lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">To continue, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw an arrow and take careful aim at one of the leading lavas. As it dips its head and opens its jaw, you release your straining bowstring and send your shaft whistling towards its face. The fire-hardened tip penetrates its eye and, with a hideous shriek, it spins end over end before crashing into the parapet of the North Watch.</p>
- <p><quote>Fire at their eyes!</quote> you shout, and a cloud of fifty Kai arrows are sent screaming through the sky to seek their elusive mark. More than half find their target, decimating the first wave of the lavas attack at a single stroke, yet those winged creatures who do survive this deadly volley are quickly among the defenders on the wall. Suddenly you are confronted by one of these beasts who attempts to bat you from the battlements with its horny tail. You leap to avoid its scything attack, draw your weapon in mid-air, and strike your first blow the moment your feet return to the flagstones of the North Watch.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">46</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave this accursed town as quickly as you are able, and skirt around its perimeter before joining the road which heads east towards Abisko. Later in the afternoon, you catch sight of a grand, half-timbered bridge in the far distance. It spans a river, swollen by recent rains, which you recognize at once to be the River Reloni. There is a small circular tent near the approach to the bridge, and three Eldenoran soldiers are seated on stools beside it, each smoking a long-stemmed pipe.</p>
- <p>At first you consider avoiding the bridge and finding somewhere else to make a crossing, but the river is wide and fast-flowing, and the three guards look particularly weak and stupid. After some deliberation, you decide to try and bluff your way past them. At your approach, one of the guards gets up off his stool and moves to stand in your way. Casually, he asks to see some sort of identification.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you possess a Silver Seal, <link-text>turn to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before the angry thieves of Spur Lane can catch you, you cross the square and enter Quill Street. This narrow avenue is flanked by aromatic jala houses and perfumeries, until at length it turns abruptly right into a wider thoroughfare called Brass Street. Here you see the courtyard entrance to a grand building whose brick and marble façade is adorned with the words: HALLS OF LEARNING. Suddenly you feel inexplicably drawn towards this building; it is as if it possesses the solution to all your problems.</p>
- <p>You enter and ride along a gravelled path which leads to a building where a sign, hanging over its richly-carved oak door, simply says: LIBRARY. You feel compelled to stop here and, without quite knowing why, you dismount from your horse and tie his reins to a ring which is set into the wall. Then you push open the door and enter the library<ch.apos/>s cool interior.</p>
- <p>Countless thousands of books and parchments crowd the stone shelves of this magnificent library. Your eyes travel along them until they reach another door at the far end of the hall. There, standing framed in its archway, is an old man clad in plain brown robes. He looks at you and smiles knowingly.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> he says, <quote>I have been expecting you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you have ever visited a hut on Raider<ch.apos/>s Road, the city of Tahou, or Lake Vorndarol (in previous Lone Wolf adventures), <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you have never visited any of these places, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cross to the far side of the river and wait there as the first few wolf-creatures come racing towards the bridge. The pack leader is a massive brute with chillingly yellow eyes that seem to follow your every move. The moment he reaches the bridge approach, you focus your Kai powers of Animal Control at him in a desperate attempt to turn him away.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If it is 5<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If it is 9 or higher, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you draw an arrow and raise your bow at the dragon<ch.apos/>s massive head, you hear the lavas emitting a sound that approximates laughter. Clearly they are amused by your reliance on such a primitive weapon. Undaunted by their cackling sneers, you pull the bowstring as taut as you can and place your trust in the Gods Ishir and Kai to guide your aim.</p>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you possess Magi-magic, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, or higher, <link-text>turn to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect334">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After a few minutes the druid ceases to sweep the river<ch.apos/>s edge with his curious-looking device, and you watch him disappear below the parapet of the trench.</p>
- <p>Rather than attempt to exit the water here, you allow the current to carry you a few hundred yards downstream. Here you discover a shallow bay in the river bank which affords you better cover from the nearest enemy trench. Quickly you crawl out of the water and slither like a snake up the muddy bank to drop silently into this trench. A dull-wined Eldenoran is swiftly dispatched with a blow from the edge of your hand, enabling you to move further along this log-walled ditch. Just as you are passing the opening to a makeshift dug-out, you sense danger ahead. A single file of Eldenoran swordsmen are marching along the trench in your direction: it will only be a matter of seconds before they are close enough to see you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to dive into the dug-out to avoid being seen by these men, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you choose to unsheathe your weapon and prepare for combat with this advancing file of troops, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>In the name of the Gods!</quote> splutters Nathor, spilling liqueur down the front of his tunic, <quote>what was that?</quote></p>
- <p>You hurry to the window and see a large, bat-like shape silhouetted against the moon. A man-sized rider clings precariously to the creature<ch.apos/>s back as it swoops and soars among the hills and gulleys. A knot of fear tightens in the pit of your stomach.</p>
- <p><quote>A Kraan,</quote> you say, recognizing at once the outline of this unwelcome creature.</p>
- <p><quote>You had best come away from the window, my Lord,</quote> replies an anxious Nathor, <quote>lest it detects your presence here.</quote></p>
- <p>You take heed of the Lord Constable<ch.apos/>s advice and retreat from the window. Furthermore, you use your Magnakai skill of Kai-screen to shield your mind in case the Kraan rider is able to employ psychic abilities to locate your presence.</p>
- <p><quote>It is not the first time,</quote> says Rasbarin. <quote>Every night for the past ten days we<ch.apos/>ve heard it circling the hills. Sometimes there is more than one of its kind.</quote> He offers you a bunk in the cellar of the monastery where you may be safe from detection, and you accept gladly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154"><link-text>Turn to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The accused man thanks you profusely for proving his innocence, and the merchant, while on his hands and knees gathering up his scattered gems, offers the man one of his glittering stones by way of an apology.</p>
- <p>Red-faced wish embarrassment, the merchant then offers you 10 Gold Crowns for having rid him of a thief whom he was about to entrust with his entire cargo of gems and spices from Casiorn. (If you choose to accept the crowns, be sure to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.)</p>
- <p>The tavern owner, however, is not so understanding. He does not like blood being spilled on his premises and he asks you to leave at once. You bid all three goodnight and then return to the stables to collect Wildwind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lead the regiment along the trail to where the surrounding forest opens out into a shallow meadow. Along the centre of this grassy clearing there meanders a small stream, where a dozen of the winged creatures are spread unevenly along the muddy banks. They are staring intently at the water, seemingly fascinated by the sight of the trout swimming there, and at first they do not see the regiment approaching. You give the signal to change formation, to form into two lines abreast for the charge. Then you glance at the wooded rise on the far side of the meadow, knowing that beyond this ridge lies your goal<ch.emdash/>the Kai Monastery.</p>
- <p>Suddenly one of the creatures hovering over the stream raises the alarm and his ghastly brothers growl with surprise. Unnervingly, they clack their beaked jaws as they survey the King<ch.apos/>s Cavalry, as if they are relishing the thought of an imminent feast. You order the men to lower their lances and then, with a smile of grim determination on your lips, you spur your horse forward and give voice to your battle-cry: <quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote></p>
- <p>The King<ch.apos/>s Cavalry sweep down the meadow and engulf the winged horrors, driving their lances through their steely hides. You see two of the creatures disappear beneath a thundering wave of hooves, and another two are caught from behind as they attempt to take to the air. You strike one creature a blow to its head as you gallop across the stream. It glances off its iron-hard skull, but the force s sufficient to stun the beast. As it staggers drunkenly in your wake, Captain D<ch.apos/>Val, who is leading the second line, veers towards it and runs it through with his lance.</p>
- <p>Once you are over the stream, you spur your horse up the grassy rise towards the top of the ridge, now no more than a hundred yards distant. You are within seconds of reaching the crest of the ridge when suddenly one of the creatures comes swooping out of the sky. It flies you with its glowing eyes and extends its talons as it comes screaming down towards your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you possess neither of these skills, or if you choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Intrigued by the young woman<ch.apos/>s high-bred charms, you step away from the bushes and approach her carriage door.</p>
- <p><quote>Why, yes,</quote> she says, excitedly. <quote>You are the Northland warrior they call Lone Wolf, are you not? I was in attendance at the Elector<ch.apos/>s court the day he awarded you the Star of Palmyrion or your victory over the Cener Druids of Ruel. I am honoured to meet with you in person, brave Sir.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect135"><link-text>Turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are woken from a fitful slumber by the sound of shouting. Cautiously you part the foliage to see a group of Duadon guardsmen scorning the river hank in search of your body. A brutish garrison sergeant is questioning a scrawny beggar whom he holds by the neck, lifting him several inches off the ground. The beggar, shaking with fear, points a finger towards the wood. The sergeant gives him a sneering smile, then rewards him for his co-operation with a dagger in the guts.</p>
- <p><quote>Search the copse!</quote> bellows the sergeant, wiping be blood from his blade on the dead beggar<ch.apos/>s coat. <quote>Damned Northlander<ch.apos/>s gone to ground in there.</quote></p>
- <p>Quickly you retreat deeper into the wood as a line of soldiers come crashing through the foliage, hacking and slashing with their broad-bladed swords. Using your camouflage skills, you slip through their line and make your way back towards the river road, to the place where they have left their horses. A blow to the base of the skull puts paid to the soldier who is standing guard there and, as quietly as you can, you take a horse and escape towards the east.</p>
- <p>When you can no longer see the walls of Duadon, you rein in your horse and take stock of the equipment contained in its saddle-bags. You discover the following items:</p>
- <p>Backpack</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Enough food for 2 Meals</p>
- <p>Sword</p>
- <p>3 Gold Crowns</p>
- <p>Bow</p>
- <p>Quiver, containing 3 arrows</p>
- <p>(Record these items on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. They replace those that were confiscated from you in Duadon.)</p>
- <p>Determinedly you continue your ride east and, by mid-afternoon, you come to the banks of the mighty River Storn. From the cover of a derelict barn you observe a group of merchants and travellers who are waiting at a ferry post for the boat to Rhem. The post us controlled by Eldenoran soldiers who check the ferry passengers thoroughly to make sure they are not enemy agents or deserters from the army. After an hour or so, you see the boat from Rhem approaching the post. The waiting crowd gather their belongings and get ready to board what will be the last crossing of the day.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If you wish to go to the ferry post and try to board the boat to Rhem, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you decide to avoid the ferry, you can attempt to swim the half mile stretch of river to Rhem by <link-text>turning to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery alerts you to a beam of ultra-violet light at the exit from the ford. This pencil-thin beam emanates from behind the age-worn keystone of the old bridge, crosses the exit just inches off the ground, and disappears into some bushes opposite.</p>
- <p><quote>Column halt!</quote> you shout, bringing the regiment to a stop at the approach to the ford.</p>
- <p><quote>Is something wrong, Grand Master?</quote> asks D<ch.apos/>Val, anxiously.</p>
- <p><quote>Perhaps,</quote> you reply, staring at the beam which is invisible to the Captain<ch.apos/>s eyes. <quote>Wait here, Captain, while I satisfy my curiosity.</quote></p>
- <p>You urge your horse forward and approach the fallen keystone. As you draw closer, you sense that it conceals an explosive device constructed from materials not of this world. It is an elaborate booby trap planted here by Naar<ch.apos/>s minions, and it is set to detonate should any large creature unwittingly break the beam.</p>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you possess Kai alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you possess Grand Nexus, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you possess neither of these skills, or if you choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At once you recognize the captain: it is Cearmaine, the brave hero of the Darklords War, who guided you to Stonewatch and the Forest of Ruel during your quest to thwart the Cener Druids, two years previously.</p>
- <p><quote>Hail, Grand Master!</quote> he says, his battle-scarred face beaming with delight, <quote>I am pleased to have been chosen by the Elector to escort you north to Holona.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Well met, captain,</quote> you reply, shaking his steel hand. <quote>I could not have wished for a better travelling companion.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect130"><link-text>Turn to 130</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the ghastly spectre comes galloping towards you on its hellish black steed, your Kai senses warn you that it is the spirit of the evil lord who once ruled this city. His name was Roark and be was once a secret practitioner of the dark arts of the Cener Druids. He has long since perished in the flesh but his evil spirit lives on, tortured and restless, doomed to ride the deserted streets of his shattered domain.</p>
- <p>As the spectre of Roark comes closer, his mouth opens and a hideous shriek fills the air. You feel a pressure rapidly building in your head; it is an agonizing force that threatens to tear your skull apart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The brigand leader mounts his horse, but before he can make good his escape, you take a running leap over the abbey wail and drag him out of the saddle. Together you crash to the frost-hardened ground and desperately he kicks and struggles to break free from your steely grip. Out of his boot he snatches a stiletto blade and thrusts it viciously at your throat. You dodge your head aside, avoiding its razor-sharp tip, but in doing so you let the brigand slip out of your hands. He rolls away and begins to rise to his feet, but then he freezes, his eyes wide with fearful recognition, as he stares at your face.</p>
- <p><quote>L<ch.ellips/> Lone Wolf!</quote> he gasps, mortified, as if he is confronting a ghost.</p>
- <p><quote>Drop the dagger and surrender!</quote> you order, levelling your weapon at his head to reinforce your command. Swiftly the brigand<ch.apos/>s expression changes from one of shock to one of sneering defiance.</p>
- <p><quote>You<ch.apos/>ll never take me alive!</quote> he spits, and to your shocked surprise he thrusts his danger deep into his chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Deliverance, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect a faint shimmer of crimson light radiating from the druid<ch.apos/>s giant spy-glass as he sweeps it back and forth along the river<ch.apos/>s edge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Kai-screen, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect248">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect197">If it is 6 or more, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give thanks to your friend Banedon for providing you with the Platinum Amulet, for you sense that it is protecting your body from the extreme heat and toxic atmosphere of this hellish plane. However, the amulet alone is not sufficient to keep you safe from the creatures that are now advancing rapidly towards the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On the far side of the river you notice a milestone half-buried in a roadside ditch. Etched on its granite surface is a small arrow which points eastwards, and below reads the message: Abisko<ch.emdash/>25 miles.</p>
- <p>Later, as you approach the outskirts of this town, you notice a large flock of carrion crows circling above its timbered buildings. You sense that plague has recently visited this town as well, and so you leave the road and spend the night in woodland a few miles to the south.</p>
- <p>The next day, the weather changes for the better. The temperature rises and the surface of the muddy road quickly becomes dry and hard. Ten miles east of Abisko you see a small regiment of Eldenoran soldiers camped out beside the road. They are busy with their luckless duty of having to burn the bodies of Abisko<ch.apos/>s plague victims, which number in the hundreds. So preoccupied are they with their grim task that they fail to see you steal one of their horses and make off with it along the road which leads to Duadon<ch.emdash/>their capital city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect270"><link-text>Turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The road which crosses the plains to the east of the River Phoen is deeply rutted. Fortunately though, it is dry, there haying been little rain in these parts for weeks. Progress is good and by midday you and your troop have covered more than thirty miles. You pass many wagons on this road, mostly driven by farmers who are taking their crops to the markets and wharfs of Garthen. These wagon drivers seem an unusually loyal and friendly breed; invariably they wave and cheer the moment they recognize the uniforms of Queen Evaine<ch.apos/>s Court Cavalry.</p>
- <p>After a brief rest at a village on the road, you continue your ride across the open plains and descend into a wide valley where a shallow stream winds its way through a mass of reed-beds and willow copses. Beyond this valley, the land becomes increasingly hilly. The sun is almost touching the horizon when you come to a small wayside shrine dedicated to the Goddess Ishir. Here a track leads off to the north and, a mile distant, you can make out the walls and tall bell-tower of a chateau high in the hills.</p>
- <p><quote>That<ch.apos/>s the monastery of the Vaderish Brethren,</quote> says Nathor. <quote>They<ch.apos/>re a holy order devoted to the worship of the Goddess Ishir. We will find safe shelter with them this night.</quote></p>
- <p>The sun has set and dusk is quickly turning to darkness by the time the troop reaches the gates of the Vaderish monastery. The brothers of this holy order are led by an elderly monk called Rasbarin whom Nathor has met once before. The old cleric welcomes him warmly, as if he was his son, then he invites you to stay here overnight.</p>
- <p>The monk<ch.apos/>s evening meal is simple fare but well-prepared and wholesome nonetheless (restore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you may have lost during your adventure so far). Afterwards, Rasbarin invites you and Nathor to his chambers to sample some of the monks<ch.apos/> speciality<ch.emdash/>a fine liqueur called Aquas. You are raising a glass of this golden liquid to your lips when suddenly the peace is shattered by a loud, cawing shriek which echoes through the surrounding hills.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess the Discipline of Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you enter the courtyard, a boy rushes out of the stables and eagerly takes charge of Wildwind<ch.apos/>s reins. He praises your horse enthusiastically and promises that he will look after him well while you are enjoying your visit to the tavern. On entering the taproom, you are welcomed by the mouth-watering smell of roasting beef and fine ale. The tavern is busy and nobody pays you any special attention as you take a seat by the counter.</p>
- <p>At a nearby table, you notice an argument is brewing between a merchant and a man dressed in a shabby hide coat. The merchant is accusing the man of stealing a purse of gems from his pocket, and the confrontation is being made worse by a third man, a lank-haired bargee, who is siding with the merchant. The accused man pleads that he is innocent but the other two give no credence to his pleas. Suddenly, the merchant draws a dagger and threatens to slit the man<ch.apos/>s throat unless he hands over the stolen gems at once.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you possess Telegnosis, and have attained the Kai rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While you are observing the town, your thoughts wander to your homeland and the threat that is confronting the new order acolytes at the Kai Monastery. Your fervent desire to be with them is rekindled, making you wish that you possessed a horse to help speed your journey to Casiorn.</p>
- <p>Near the junction at the centre of the town, you see a large timbered building. Painted on its facia and roof are two words: Narsha Stables.</p>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you wish to enter the deserted-looking town and go in search of a horse, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you would rather avoid this town, you can skirt around its perimeter and take the road which heads east towards Abisko, by <link-text>turning to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quick reactions have saved you from being burnt alive, but this feat does not impress the dragon. Your escape from his incinerating breath serves to make him even angrier. In a fit of pique, he stomps his massive forefoot down on to the black soil and sends a splash of molten mud and flame soaring into the sulphurous sky.</p>
- <p>You use this opportunity to retreat towards the Shadow Gate, but you do not get very far before the great beast sees you and comes lumbering forwards with his jaw agape.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a Platinum Amulet, a Talisman of Ishir, or the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you must now deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the debilitating effects of the heat and atmosphere.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack leader is a ferocious creature whose supernatural will is far too strong to be turned by your powers of animal control. Some of the pack, however, are affected by your psychic suggestion and break away from the main body to cower by the side of the bridge. But the majority continue to follow their leader, and with their prey now in sight, these howling beasts are increasing the pace of their loping stride.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you hear Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s strident voice rising above the din of the battle: <quote>Ride on, Lone Wolf!</quote> he shouts, <quote>Ride to the monastery!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance over your shoulder and see the Captain and his men locked in combat with the winged creatures. More are swooping in from the east now, drawn by the cries of their brothers. The tide of the battle is turning against D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men and your heart goes out to them as they struggle bravely against increasing odds. Your instinct is to turn back, but you heed the Captains plea and urge your horse on towards the top of the ridge. The best way you can serve these courageous men now is to reach the Kai Monastery and destroy the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a terrifying howl, the war-dog pack launch a simultaneous attack and come leaping at you from all sides.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran war-dogs (in blood-frenzy):</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">47</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to their frenzied state, these war-dogs are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ventured less than a few hundred yards across this stagnant bog, taking care to avoid its bubbling pools and treacherous tracks of quicksand, when suddenly you find yourself sinking knee-deep into a treacly black ooze. What you had at first thought to be firm earth has, to your growing dismay, turned out to be a cloying, semi-liquid morass of rotting vegetation.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you possess Telegnosis. and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Lord or higher, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect296">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are half-way across the ford when alarm bells sound on both sides of the river.</p>
- <p><quote>Deserter at the ford!</quote> goes the cry from the Eldenoran fort. <quote>Enemy spy approaching!</quote> shout the Slovian guards.</p>
- <p>Moments later, a hissing cloud of arrows and bolts descend on you from both sides and your horse is killed instantly in he crossfire. It crashes head-first into the water and you are thrown out of the saddle to land heavily amongst the rocks which lie strewn along the Slovian bank. You try to rise but suddenly an explosion of white light fills your vision and the taste of blood fills your mouth: you have been hit in the head by an armour-piercing arrow. Mercifully, death is virtually instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Sadly your life and your journey home comes to an abrupt end here, on the Slovian banks of the River Storn.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few moments you hurtle through the cold night air, oblivious to your surroundings. Then you glimpse the flagstones of the keep and the roof of the castle stables, more than a hundred feet below, and your stomach churns with fear.</p>
- <p>Steeling yourself for impact, you smash through the thatched roof of the stables and land amidst a tangle of hay and broken timbers. Moments later, Nathor comes crashing through the roof and lands just a few yards from where you are lying. You are badly bruised but you have survived the fall (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Nathor, too, is alive, but his injuries are more severe. His left ankle is badly broken and his face is a mess of cuts and contusions. Despite his obvious pain he manages a smile, revealing gaps where he is missing two of his teeth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you wish to use your Kai healing skills on the Lord Constable, <link-text>turn to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you decide to concentrate on escaping from the castle as quickly as possible, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press on through the trees, your senses alert to the slightest sound. After an hour or so, you stumble across a stream where you stop briefly to gulp a mouthful of icy fresh water. Beyond this stream the trees become far denser, offering you better cover from the wandering groups of Eldenorans who seem to be positioned all over this vast timberland. It is not until later that you realize that they have not been posted here; they are deserters, hiding out in the forest to avoid a certain death at the Reloni Bridge.</p>
- <p>By morning, you have covered several miles of forest and avoided all contact with the Eldenorans. Then, shortly before midday, you come across the outlying huts of a fortified town which sits astride a busy woodland trail. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> reveals this to be Fabri, an Eldenoran outpost close to the Slovian border. From the top of a pine tree you look down on this settlement which is ringed by a palisade. Five cavalry regiments are camped within its perimeter wail of sharpened logs, and you note several Cener Druids conversing with the regimental commanders. It would seem that Prince Lutha is in league with the evil plague-lords of Ruel.</p>
- <p>While you are observing Fabri from your vantage point high above, you notice a patrol of horsemen wending their way through the trees towards one of the outlying huts. On arriving, they dismount and enter, leaving their horses tied to a split rail but otherwise unattended. Tempted by the opportunity, you descend the tree and make your way towards the hut.</p>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Instinctively you crouch down and take cover amongst the nearby foliage. You also call upon your Kai camouflage and psychic skills to help mask your presence from the creature which is circling high above the trees. For several minutes you stare at the loathsome creature, not daring to move a muscle, then you see it fly away and you breathe a sigh of relief.</p>
- <p>A chill night wind whistles through the trees and you shiver. But it is not the cold that is chilling your blood<ch.emdash/>it is the sudden fear that you may never see your homeland again.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275"><link-text>Turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the thieves lying dead and bleeding outside the door to their sinister guildhouse. Coming from inside, you can hear the sound of running feet and angry voices. Before more of the thieves appear, you vault on to your horse and gallop away along Spur Lane, retracing your route back to the square at the city<ch.apos/>s South Gate. On returning here, you rein in your panting horse and pause to consider the remaining two exits from the square.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308">If you wish to go north into Ladder Way, <link-text>turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you choose to go west into Quill Street, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself as flat as you can against the sheer rock face of the ravine, but a heavy boulder glances your shoulder and you lose your precarious grip. Frantically you scrabble for a hand hold, but already you are falling backwards amidst a cloud of choking dust and loose shale. With a sickening thud, you smash head-first into the boulder-strewn ground at the base of the ravine.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey home come to an abrupt end here in Eldenora.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the hiss of the crossbow bolt in flight, then suddenly an explosion of white light fills your vision and the taste of blood fills your mouth: you have been shot in the base of the skull by an iron bolt and, mercifully, death is virtually instantaneous.</p>
- <p>Sadly your life and your journey home comes to an abrupt end here, in the timberlands of southern Eldenora.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Discipline, you launch a concentrated burst of psychic energy at the drunken thug. The bolt penetrates his mind and stuns him, causing him to freeze like a stone statue (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 1).</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, this temporary paralysis also prevents the young woman and her child from breaking free from his grasp. After a few moments the thug emerges from his state of psychic shock in a murderous mood, and you are forced to draw your weapon and rush towards him in an effort to stop him before he can enact his revenge on his innocent captive<ch.apos/>s child.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your hurried blow rips a jagged hole in the wing of the beast, and, suddenly off-balanced by the wound it loses control and slams into the ground with a sickening crunch. You give a cry of elation, then you hear Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s strident voice rising above the din of the battle:</p>
- <p><quote>Ride on, Lone Wolf!</quote> he shouts, <quote>Ride to the monastery!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance over your shoulder and see the Captain and his men locked in combat with the winged creatures. More are swooping in from the east now, drawn by the cries of their brothers. The tide of the battle is turning against D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men and your heart goes out to them as they struggle bravely against increasing odds. Your instinct is to turn back, but you heed the Captain<ch.apos/>s plea and urge your horse on towards the top of the ridge. The best way you can serve these courageous men now is to reach the Kai Monastery and destroy the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before your face disappears completely below the surface of the Storn, you force yourself to intone the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Breathe Water</spell>. Immediately, you feel the fatique melting away from your aching limbs as you absorb oxygen directly from the river itself. Powered by a surge of renewed energy, you are able to strike out afresh for the opposite bank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Calling upon your Kai mastery, you are able to vault across the opening fissures and reach the Shadow Gate uninjured. With the hellish screams of the Dark God Naar ringing in your ears, you hurl yourself through the Shadow Gate into the whirling abyss beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the riders approach, your initial suspicions are confirmed: these are unquestionably Eldenoran brigands. Their saddle-cloths bear the emblem of their realm, and their steeds are laden with sacks and pouches that bulge with ill-gotten gains. You remain hidden until they have passed by, and then, to be doubly sure you wait until the dust of their horses<ch.apos/> hooves disappears beyond the horizon.</p>
- <p>During your wait, unless your possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race through the gatehouse arch just moments before the heavy portcullis comes crashing down. Without daring to look back, you urge your horse across the wooden drawbridge and along the open track that lies beyond. The angry shouts of the gate guards echo from the battlements but so too do the unexpected sounds of clanking chains and baying hounds.</p>
- <p>You have covered more than half a mile when you chance a glance over your shoulder. To your dismay you see that you are being pursued by a snarling pack of wolf-like creatures with drooling fangs and eyes that gleam menacingly in the darkness. An icy chill invades your heart. These are ho ordinary hunting hounds<ch.emdash/>these are hellish beasts born of a dark sorcery.</p>
- <p>Soon you reach the tributary bridge that is lined with statues, and you catch sight of the twinkling lights of Scade about a mile beyond. The feral pack are closing fast and you know that your encumbered horse cannot outpace them indefinitely. You must do something to delay them, if you and Nathor are to escape in one piece.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If you possess the discipline of Magi-magic, and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Thane <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you possess Kai-surge, and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect195">If you do not possess these skills, or if you have yet to attain the necessary level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 195</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Sommerlund?</quote> answers the innkeeper, quizzically. <quote>I<ch.apos/>m afraid not, kind Sir. Your home must be mor<ch.apos/>n six hundred miles from <ch.apos/>ere. It<ch.apos/>s rare we gets to hear what<ch.apos/>s goin<ch.apos/> on in Varetta and that<ch.apos/>s only twenty five miles t<ch.apos/>north.</quote></p>
- <p>Hearing the inkeeper mention how far it is to Sommerlund brings a leaden feeling to your stomach. You still have far to go and so little time in which to accomplish your urgent journey. Feeling chastened by the daunting number of miles you must ride, you bid the innkeeper and his daughter goodnight and retire quietly to your room.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56"><link-text>Turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to swim against the current, but your recent ordeal in Duadon has greatly weakened your constitution. The strength in your limbs is ebbing fast, and, with mounting panic, you feel unable to prevent yourself from sinking beneath the surface of the Storn.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect227">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Thane, or higher, <link-text>turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you possess Telegnosis, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, or higher, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect251">If you possess none of these skills, or if you have yet to attain the necessary levels of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lavas veers away from you and uses its wings to deflect the Sun-Crystal. With dismay you watch as the glowing crystal drops harmlessly among the rocks, below the entrance to the Shadow Gate. Hurriedly you scramble over the jagged granite in a desperate attempt to retrieve the Sun-Crystal, but in doing so you lose your footing and fall heavily among the rocks: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The shrieking lavas snatches you off the mountainside and soars into the air. At first you struggle to free yourself from its mighty claws, but then you see the creature is carrying you directly towards the yawning black maw of the Shadow Gate and you freeze with shock.</p>
- <p>Moments before entering this hellish abyss, you look down and get a passing glimpse of the Sun-Crystal lying among the rocks, no more than thirty feet from the entrance to the Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect88">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place five Gold Crowns on the blacksmith<ch.apos/>s anvil (remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>) and he nods his approval.</p>
- <p><quote>Leave y<ch.apos/> horse outside and come back in an hour<ch.emdash/>I<ch.apos/>ll <ch.apos/>ave it done by then.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After the explosion at the ford, you sense that the regiment is more wary of the surrounding forest. You proceed at a slower, more cautious pace, and keep a watchful eye on the trail ahead. You have not gone very far when your eagle-eyes detect something amiss in the undergrowth away to your right. You magnify your vision and see a patch of grey among the greens of the forest floor. After a few moments you recognize it to be the sole of a man<ch.apos/>s boot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you wish to halt the troop and examine what you have seen more closely, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you decide to ignore it and continue along the trail, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As soon as your feet touch the ground, the sergeant and his men swarm around you and force you to your knees. Quickly they bind your hands with cord and confiscate your weapons, money pouch, backpack and cape (delete these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; you need not erase your Special Items however as none of these are taken).</p>
- <p>Then the staff-wielding Cener arrives with a horsedrawn cart into which the soldiers bundle you unceremoniously. The robed druid cackles like a crazed maniac ecstatic at having identified and captured Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>the destroyer of so many of his evil brethren. His vile laughter echoes in your ears as he lashes his horses and steers his rickety cart through the dark streets of Duadon. After a short and bruising journey at breakneck speed, you pass beneath the imposing arch of Skull-Tor, the fortified bastion of Duadon<ch.apos/>s long line of past rulers, and descend a stone ramp to an underground gaol. Here you are greeted by a squad of brutal guards who beat you with staves (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before imprisoning you in a circular pit infested with vermin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride across this busy square into an avenue that heads north, towards the heart of Varetta. Apothecaries and candle-makers<ch.apos/> shops flank this wide street until it opens upon an ornate park filled with rare and beautiful flowers. The sight and scent of these blooms are entrancing and, before you are aware of any change, you find yourself intoxicated by their powerful aroma.</p>
- <p><quote>Awake, Grand Master,</quote> says an old man<ch.apos/>s voice in your ear. <quote>you have no time to dream.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect20"><link-text>Turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You accept Lord Constable Nathor<ch.apos/>s offer of an escort to Queen Evaine<ch.apos/>s citadel and call to Lord Ardan, who has been watching from the deck of the <cite>Saxin</cite>, to come and join you. As Ardan disembarks, Nathor gives a signal to his men who are busy keeping an inquisitive crowd of citizens at bay. Hurriedly they clear a gap in the pressing wall of curious, wide-eyed Garthanians, and moments later the horse-drawn coach comes trundling through towards the quay.</p>
- <p>Once you and Ardan are safely aboard, Lord Constable Nathor shouts a terse command to the driver and the coach speeds away from the harbour, escorted by the troop of court cavalry. A swervingly swift journey through Garthen<ch.apos/>s steeply narrow streets ends when the coachman reins in his horses in the courtyard of the Royal Citadel. Everywhere you look you see soldiers of the Royal Household in uniforms bedecked with glittering braid. A fanfare of trumpets announces your arrival and, with minimal delay, Nathor escorts you personally to the State Hall where Queen Evaine of Talestria, seated upon a throne and surrounded by a dozen of her court advisors, is waiting patiently for you to appear.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master.</quote> she says, graciously, <quote>we have been expecting you. King Sarnac sent word of your arrival by message-hawk and we have made arrangements to help speed your passage homewards,</quote></p>
- <p>Respectfully you bow to the queen and voice your thanks for the cooperation she has seen fit to offer you.</p>
- <p><quote>Not at all. Grand Master, for Talestria is in your debt. Were it not for you, our land would be in the thrall of the Darklords.</quote></p>
- <p>With this, Queen Evaine dismisses her advisors and motions for you, Ardan, and Lord Constable Nathor to approach to the foot of her throne.</p>
- <p><quote>I understand the urgency of your journey, Grand Master,</quote> she says, her voice hushed as if she fears being overheard, <quote>but I must caution you to be on guard. The Dark God Naar<ch.apos/>s agents are abroad with plans to thwart your homecoming. I have received word from my garrisons in the north that Zlanbeast and Kraan riders have been sighted in the night skies. They venture forth from the ruins of the Darklord cities of Nadgazad and Cragmantle, sent by the express command of Naar himself. They know now that you triumphed in Ixia and they are watching expectantly for your coming.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I thank you for this information, your majesty, but I am sure that I can avoid these night-riders,</quote> you reply confidently.</p>
- <p><quote>I have no doubt of this, Grand Master,</quote> she says, <quote>but they are not the only agents in Naar<ch.apos/>s employ. Word of your coming has spread like wildfire throughout the shadowy underworld of thieves and assassins. Great rewards of gold and dark magic have been offered for your death.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>With respect, your majesty,</quote> you reply, tactfully masking your scepticism, <quote>how do you know this to be true?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Grand Master, it is true. I have heard it from the very lips of an assassin who was plotting your murder, here, in the heart of my capital. He was captured while attempting to recruit others and he is being held prisoner in the dungeons of this citadel. Perhaps you would welcome the chance to question this man yourself?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you wish to accept Queen Evaine<ch.apos/>s offer and question your would-be assassin, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you choose not to question the prisoner, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dragon growls with disdain as you threaten him with your weapon. He raises a claw-tipped forepaw and lashes out in an attempt to swat it from your grasp, but you duck he blow and thrust it into his side. He roars with pain, but then he leaps at you with frightening speed.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Vaxagore</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">52</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At close quarters, the city of Amory gives off an odour of disease and decay. Its flagstoned streets are cracked and broken open by plants, the roofs of its once-fine houses have long since caved in, and every surface is damp and mildewed. It is also completely deserted; even the rats have left.</p>
- <p>You seek shelter in one of the few buildings with a roof still intact. The furnishings that you discover here are made of the finest Durenese oak and Salonese leather, but none withstand your weight. Everything has rotted and falls to shreds at a touch. You are clearing debris from the floor to make a place to sleep when suddenly you hear hoofbeats in the street outside. You rush to the open door and see, to your shocked surprise, a ghostly rider astride a black horse come galloping down the narrow avenue. Tongues of red flame shoot from the horse<ch.apos/>s nostrils and it leaves in its wake a trail of green mist.</p>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you have ever visited the town of Quarlen, or the Isle of Ghosts, in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If you have visited neither of these places, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Expertly you guide your horse through the densely packed trees at the centre of this copse. The brigands attempt to follow, but they are poor riders by comparison and they find it impossible to penetrate this wood on horseback.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes you hear their leader command them to return to the road. He has lost patience with his men and cannot be bothered to pursue the chase any further. You remain hidden at the middle of the copse and do not emerge until the dust of their horses<ch.apos/> hooves has disappeared beyond the horizon.</p>
- <p>During your wait, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">To continue, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow penetrates the dragon<ch.apos/>s skull, but the only effect it has is to make him angrier than he already is. He stomps his massive forefoot down on to the black soil and sends a splash of molten mud and flame into the air.</p>
- <p>You discard your bow and reach for your weapon as the great beast comes lumbering slowly towards you with his jaw agape.</p>
- <p>Unless you possess a Platinum Amulet, a Talisman of Ishir, or the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you must now deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to the debilitating effects of the heat and atmosphere.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you unshoulder your bow and draw an arrow to your lips. You take aim at the thug<ch.apos/>s head and let fly your shaft but in an instant before it strikes, he twists around and the arrows tip merely scratches a crimson line across his cheek.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, this wound does not make him loose his grip; it simply makes him more frightened and murderous than before. You are forced to discard your bow and unsheathe a hand weapon as you rush towards him in a desperate attempt to prevent him from wounding his innocent captive<ch.apos/>s child.</p>
- <choice idref="sect167"><link-text>Turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ride out of Rhem by its east gate and head off along a wide road that is bordered by hovels and farmsteads. Shortly you come to a signpost where the road ends and a track begins. It marks the entrance to the forest of Salony, and indicates the distances to two Salonese towns:</p>
- <p>Ellio<ch.emdash/>50 miles Amory<ch.emdash/>100 miles</p>
- <p>You follow the track deep into the forest and spend your first night in Salony here, surrounded by the leafy comfort of this rich timberland. At dawn, you resume your ride and, by nightfall, you find yourself approaching the outskirts of the forest town of Ellio.</p>
- <p>During your long day<ch.apos/>s ride through the forest, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138"><link-text>Turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have found the body of a Kai Master. His torn and crushed remains are clothed in the grey cloak and tunic that denotes his rank within the new order. He has been dead for two or three days.</p>
- <p>At first you can hardly bear to look at his face, but when you do, you recognize him at once: it is Swift Fire. He was the fastest runner of all the Kai, and you suspect he may have volunteered to use his speed to try and break through the enemy lines. Sadly, it seems, he could not outrun his fate.</p>
- <p>Respectfully you cover his face with his cloak and say a short prayer to the God Kai to watch over his spirit. Then you return to the regiment and continue the ride along the trail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect280"><link-text>Turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the warm comfort of the inn, you use your Kai healing skills to mend the Lord Constable<ch.apos/>s injuries. He is carefully testing his weight on his newly-mended ankle when suddenly there is a commotion outside in the street. An angry mob of hard-faced men, many clutching torches, staves, and coils of rope, are marching down the cobbled avenue towards the inn.</p>
- <p><quote>Hang the Talestrian thieves!</quote> they shout. <quote>String up the murdering swine!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What<ch.apos/>s going on? Who are these men?</quote> asks Nathor. The innkeeper<ch.apos/>s face turns white and he begins to tremble with fear.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.ellips/> I don<ch.apos/>t rightly know,</quote> he stammers, <quote>I ain<ch.apos/>t never seen <ch.apos/>em before. They<ch.apos/>s not from these parts. We<ch.apos/>ve never had no quarrel with Talestria. You<ch.apos/>ve always been our friends.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly a chunk of cobblestone smashes through a window and an angry cry arises from the mob:</p>
- <p><quote>Come out, you Talestrian dogs. Come out or we<ch.apos/>ll burn you out!</quote></p>
- <p>Nathor calls everyone to the rear of the inn where a passage leads directly to the stables.</p>
- <p><quote>I fear this is some kind of crude ploy to murder you, Grand Master,</quote> he says. <quote>If you are to stand any chance of reaching your homeland, you must continue your journey at once. I and my men will do what we can to hold this mob at bay, but you must leave now and you must go alone.</quote></p>
- <p>Another window shatters and a burning brand is hurled into the inn.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> you reply, uneasily, <quote>I shall leave at once.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect161"><link-text>Turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you pass through the Shadow Gate, you are assailed by howling gales and winds. Yet, despite the freezing coldness of this abyss, you feel no pain. Your body is protected, cocooned and shielded by your advanced mastery of the Discipline of Nexus.</p>
- <p>You feel as if both you and the lavas are whirling downwards in every-decreasing circles into the core of a vortex, and rapidly you lose all track of time. Then, as abruptly as it began, the whirling ceases and the frigidity of the abyss is transformed into a harsh and blistering heat. Shielded as you are, this extreme temperature feels pleasantly warm. Nevertheless, with fearful apprehension, you force open your eyes to look upon the nightmare realm that now surrounds you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64"><link-text>Turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The druid suddenly detects you in hiding at the water<ch.apos/>s edge. He shouts a hurried order to a group of Eldenoran crossbowmen in the trench beside him and immediately they open fire, sending a volley of deadly bolts whistling about your ears.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Through the foliage you see six well-armed horsemen riding two abreast. They are followed by a carriage, behind which there are another two horsemen guarding the rear. The coach is quite small, suitable for no more than two passengers at most, and its lacquered black wood looks dull. It is covered with the dust of a long journey. It has curtained windows and a crest adorns its doors.</p>
- <p>As they draw closer, you see one of the leading horsemen raise his hand to bring the column to a halt. Your heart sinks when you realize that he has seen your horse. Rather than take the risk of losing your mount, you call out to the horseman, commanding him to continue on his way.</p>
- <p><quote>Show y<ch.apos/>self,</quote> he shouts in reply, and draws his sabre. <quote>Unless you be a brigand, you have no need to fear us.</quote></p>
- <p>You remain hidden for a few moments longer, using your Kai skills to determine their purpose. When you can detect no aura of evil about them, you rise from behind the bush so that you can be seen. A pale hand parts the carriage curtains and you glimpse the face of a handsome young woman with jet-black hair. Judging by the finery of her dress and the elegance of her demeanour, you assess her to be of noble birth.</p>
- <p><quote>You, Sir!</quote> she calls, with a refined Palmyrion accent, <quote>I<ch.ellips/> I know you. Please, won<ch.apos/>t you approach my coach so that I can be sure?</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to do as she requests, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you decide to ignore her request and stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You crest the ridge and your spirits soar when you see the Kai monastery two miles distant. The chequered battle banner of the Kai flutters atop the Tower of he Sun, proudly defiant in the face of the hordes of winged lavas circling overhead. The monastery is largely intact, though much of its surrounding wall has been damaged and plumes of smoke rise from the inner keep and training park. Yet, even at this distance, you sense that it is still being held secure from Naar<ch.apos/>s loathsome minions.</p>
- <p>The new order have indeed proved themselves worthy in your absence. However, the pride you feel for your young acolytes is tempered by the price that has been paid. At the base of the Tower of the Sun you can see the blackened wreckage of the <cite>Skyrider</cite>, Banedon<ch.apos/>s skyship, twisted and gutted where it fell to earth. There are bodies strewn about it, but at this distance, even with your magnified vision, you cannot tell if they are friend or foe.</p>
- <p>Dusk is already upon the land and darkness will be total within the hour. Mindful of the circling lavas who command the skies, you decide to abandon your horse and continue from here on foot. It will be harder for the enemy to spot you moving through the forest on foot than if you were to continue on horseback.</p>
- <choice idref="sect96">If you possess Kai-screen, and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, you are gripped by spasms which paralyse your leg and stomach muscles. Incapacitated by cramp, you are unable to prevent yourself from sinking rapidly to the bottom of the River Storn.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your journey home to Sommerlund end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You request the King to excuse you from the council of war for a few moments. He grants your request, thinking that you wish to be alone to grieve the loss of your friends Banedon and Rimoah, and he allows you the use of his Royal chamber.</p>
- <p>Once you are alone, you use your Kai mastery to attempt to make contact with Guildmaster Banedon telepathically. You concentrate with all your power, straining your psychic energies in your effort to connect with your friend<ch.apos/>s mind. To your surprise, you detect a barrier in the ethereal plane, a wall of dark energy that has been placed there purposefully to prevent telepathic contact. You sense that the barrier is the work of the Dark God Naar and you call on all your reserves of psychic strength in an effort to break through it.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw on your Magnakai skill of Psi-screen to protect your mind from Roark<ch.apos/>s assault, but before it can deflect his attack, you suffer the numbing effects of psychic shock: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you recover your senses, you see his ghastly apparition galloping past. It stirs in its wake a whirling maelstrom that is filled with rocks, broken glass and other city debris. This whirlwind assails you physically and knocks you to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ghost of Roark</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You conduct this combat in the normal way. While attacking the ghost of Roark using your psychic Kai abilities, you must defend yourself from the injurious effects of the debris-storm. Only by defeating Roark<ch.apos/>s ghost in combat will you cause the maelstrom to cease.</p>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus your psychic powers and launch a pulse of energy at the prisoner<ch.apos/>s mind in an attempt to weaken his resolve (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 1 point). You sense that his memory is protected by a magical shield, but it proves to be ineffective against your psychic probe. The man shrieks with fear as his body is racked by uncontrollable tremors.</p>
- <p>You command the prisoner to reveal the identity of the person who sent him here to Garthen to murder you, and a mass of images begin to swirl and solidify in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye. They are the images of a past meeting in a far-off place which you recognize to be Duadon, the capital city of Eldenora. You see a shadowy figure, sheathed in ornate chainmail, handing a bulging pouch of gold to the prisoner in a dimly-lit alleyway. The figure speaks your name before melting away into the shadows.</p>
- <p><quote>Who is this person?</quote> you say, commanding the trembling prisoner to answer. He parts his bruised lips and tries to utter a name but no sound emerges. You sense that he is fighting to overcome the remnants of the shielding spell placed upon his mind. Moving closer, you try to make out the name he is struggling hard to whisper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect326"><link-text>Turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cearmaine is overcome with grief by his son<ch.apos/>s death. With trembling hands he takes the bloodstained tunic from beneath the young mans head, unfolds it, and drapes it over his lifeless body. To your surprise, you note the insignia on the lapels are similar to those on Cearmaine<ch.apos/>s uniform; his son held the rank of captain, the same as his father.</p>
- <p><quote>I must go to his regiment,</quote> he says, his voice wavering. <quote>It is right and fitting that I take command of them now.</quote></p>
- <p>After attending to the burial of his son, the grieving Captain returns to the Canatarium to find out where his son<ch.apos/>s regiment is stationed. He learns they are at he Reloni Bridge, at the very heart of the battle. Before he leaves, he thanks you for trying to save his son<ch.apos/>s life and he suggests two routes by which you can reach the distant city of Casiorn from here.</p>
- <p>The first route is the most direct, but it is also the most hazardous. It requires you to pass through the enemy lines at the Reloni Bridge, cross the southern tip of Eldenora, then continue your journey north by way of the Slovarian Plain.</p>
- <p>The second route will avoid the fighting at the Reloni Bridge, but it would mean having to pass through the city of Duadon<ch.emdash/>Prince Lutha<ch.apos/>s stronghold.</p>
- <p>(Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> at the beginning of this book before making your choice.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you choose to take the Reloni Bridge/Slovarian Plain route to Casiorn, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you decide to take the Duadon/Rhem route instead, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the Grand Hall where Banedon and Rimoah tell you of the location of the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <p><quote>Kai scouts sighted it in the foothills of the Durncrag mountains, less than five miles distant, at a place called Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie,</quote> says Banedon.</p>
- <p><quote>I know this place,</quote> you say. <quote>My old tutor, Storm Hawk, and I camped there on a hunting trip when I was an acolyte, before the war with Darklord Zagarna. There is a track that leads there<ch.emdash/>I know it well</quote></p>
- <p>You are determined to destroy the Shadow Gate and you resolve to go to Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie tonight, to carry out the mission. Also you are aware that tomorrow is a very special day. It is Fehmarn<ch.emdash/>the first day of Spring, a holy day in Sommerlund when traditionally all of the Kai gather at the Monastery to reaffirm their fealty to King Ulnar and the God Kai. It is also the anniversary of the First Order, the day upon which all of your warrior caste, save you, were massacred by Darklord Zagarna<ch.apos/>s hordes.</p>
- <p><quote>I will destroy the Shadow Gale tonight,</quote> you vow resolutely, <quote>and tomorrow we shall celebrate Fehmarn, secure in the knowledge that a lasting peace has returned to our land.</quote></p>
- <p>Moments later, a doleful bell sounds from atop the Durncrag tower: it is the alarm.</p>
- <p><quote>Hurry, my lords!</quote> shouts a young Kai savant who comes rushing breathlessly into the Grand Hall, <quote>the enemy are attacking in force!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>To your battle positions, my lords!</quote> you command, as you stride towards the door, <quote>the time has come for you to avenge your dead brothers. Fight well! Fight true! The spirit of the sun-god Kai is with us this night!</quote></p>
- <p>A great cloud of winged lavas are speeding towards the Monastery from the north-west and they will arrive within a few minutes at most. As you watch the young Kai lords arm themselves and take up their positions around the Monastery, you consider where best to position yourself for the imminent battle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you wish to join the acolytes who are lining the battlements of the North Watch, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect158">If you choose to fight from the top of the Tower of the Sun, the highest point in the Kai Monastery, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The numbing blast leaves you slumped against the wall of the pit. Rather than invite a second devastating blast from Lutha<ch.apos/>s Ring of Power, you pretend to be dead in the hope that you may be able to escape when Lutha<ch.apos/>s guards come to dispose of your body.</p>
- <p>High above you, you hear Prince Lutha howling delightedly at the sight of your seemingly dead corpse. He calls for his guards and, a few minutes later, you hear them entering the pit. There follows the tinny sound of metal scraping on metal before you feel yourself being lifted by the shoulders and feel and lowered into a slippery chute. A wave of panic makes you open your eyes and struggle to break free of their grip. This sudden and unexpected resurrection in turn makes the guards scream and drop you. They scurry away, gibbering like idiots, and you are left to slide headlong down a chute which leads to a fast-flowing underground river. You hit the cold waters feet-first and are carried swiftly away by the strong undercurrent.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You tumble head-first down the slope and knock yourself unconscious on a jagged outcrop. Minutes later, the halo of energy which surrounds the Shadow Gate begins to crackle fiercely. The surge of energy has great significance, for on the Plane of Darkness, Naar has just consigned his newest champions to the Shadow Gate through which you escaped from his realm.</p>
- <p>As the first rays of the dawn sun spread across the surrounding rocks, the first of Naar<ch.apos/>s mighty dragon herd emerge from the Shadow Gate. Drawn by the glow of the Sun-Crystal, they descend on your unconscious form and, in a frenzy of retribution, they rend you limb from limb.</p>
- <p>Tragically, on the threshold of victory, your life and the future of Sommerlund ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lacking cash, you decide instead to try and barter with the blacksmith in return for his services. You offer him a choice of any item in your backpack and, after some initial reluctance, he decides to accept. (Erase the third item you have recorded on your list of Backpack Items.)</p>
- <p><quote>Alright stranger,</quote> he says, tossing the item on a bench at the rear of the smithy, <quote>leave y<ch.apos/> horse outside and come back in an hour<ch.emdash/>I<ch.apos/>ll <ch.apos/>ave it done by then.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect104"><link-text>Turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the cover of the trees, you first use your Magnakai Nexus Discipline to cause one of the horse<ch.apos/>s reins to become untied from the rail. Then you summon the steed using your animal mastery. The horse responds without hesitation and soon you are back in the saddle once more, heading south in a wide arc around the Eldenoran settlement at Fabri.</p>
- <p>During your ride through the woodland, you discover the following items in the bags and blanket roll which are attached to the saddle:</p>
- <p>Sword</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Tinderbox</p>
- <p>Blanket</p>
- <p>Bow</p>
- <p>Quiver containing 5 arrows</p>
- <p>12 Lune (equivalent to 3 Gold Crowns)</p>
- <p>Spyglass</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>Shortly before sunset, you emerge from the trees at a place where three trails meet. A wooden signpost propped against a boulder indicates three directions, destinations, and distances:</p>
- <p>North<ch.endash/>Chod<ch.endash/>250 miles</p>
- <p>West<ch.endash/>Holona<ch.endash/>50 miles</p>
- <p>South<ch.endash/>Tenzha<ch.endash/>20 miles</p>
- <p>You are anxious to leave hostile Eldenoran territory as soon as possible and, after checking your <a idref="map">map,</a>, you set off to the south, towards the Slovian border town of Tenzha.</p>
- <p>During your ride, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect343">To continue, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pull away from the bitter green cloud and fall back towards the cell door. Your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus offers some protection from this highly poisonous gas, but you are not completely safe from its effect: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The gaoler and Lord Nathor were standing several paces from the prisoner when he exhaled, yet even so they are affected by the insidious poison. Choking and retching, they collapse to the floor, their fingers scrabbling at their swelling throats as they fight desperately for breath. You grab hold of their tunics, one in each hand, and drag their bodies out of the cell into the cleaner air of the corridor beyond. Here you use your Magnakai healing Disciplines to ease the effects of the poison gas; your skill and the swiftness of your actions undoubtedly save them from a painful, suffocating death.</p>
- <p><quote>Wha<ch.ellips/> what happened?</quote> wheezes Nathor, as he slowly recovers from the gas effects.</p>
- <p>You peer into the cell at the man now hanging limply in chains, then you turn to Nathor and say: <quote>Suicide. A suicide and an attempted murder, that is. The prisoner has just killed himself with a poison pellet and it seems his last wish was to take all three of us with him.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rather than take the risk of serious injury in a fall, you intone the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell>, and slowly you rise to the top of the ravine. Once safely on firm ground, you cancel the spell and continue on your way, heading north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of the creature<ch.apos/>s attack lifts you physically from your horse<ch.apos/>s back, and it is only your agility and determination which save you from crashing to the ground.</p>
- <p>You heave yourself back into the saddle and hold fast as the beast swoops away into the meadow. Then you hear Captain D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s strident voice rising above the din of battle:</p>
- <p><quote>Ride on, Lone Wolf!</quote> he shouts, <quote>Ride to the monastery!</quote></p>
- <p>You glance over your shoulder and see the Captain and his men locked in combat with the winged creatures. More are swooping in from the east now, drawn by the cries of their brothers. The tide of the battle is turning against D<ch.apos/>Val<ch.apos/>s men and your heart goes out to them as they struggle bravely against increasing odds. Your instinct is to turn back, but you heed the Captain<ch.apos/>s plea and urge your horse on towards the top of the ridge. You know that the best way you can serve these courageous men now is to reach the Kai Monastery and destroy the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before your face disappears for the last time below the surface of the Storn, you call upon your Kai mastery to lighten your body weight. The increased buoyancy raises you in the water and enables you to keep your head above the surface. Gradually, you feel the fatigue melting away from your aching limbs and you are able to strike out afresh for the opposite bank.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177"><link-text>Turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow glances off the Dragon<ch.apos/>s lower eyelid and its tip gouges a furrow of black tissue from the cornea of his eye. He reacts to the sudden, agonizing pain by emitting a ground-shuddering roar. Wildly he stomps his massive forefeet down into the black soil and sends splashes of molten mud and flame soaring into the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The pack leader is a ferocious creature, but his will is no match for your highly-advanced Kai powers. You command him to retreat and instantly he obeys your psychic order. The sight of their leader running away with his tail between his hind legs is more than the remaining pack members can bear. With a howl of fear and frustration they, too, turn away and race back to the safety of their pens in Castle Tranius.</p>
- <choice idref="sect86"><link-text>Turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the crystal ring there pours forth a torrent of energy, a crackling vortex of evil power that whirls around and around the wall of the circular shaft as it slowly descends towards you. Tugging the Sommerswerd from its scabbard, you hold the golden blade aloft and brace yourself for the moment the two powers collide. The tip of the swirling vortex is drawn to your blade like lightning to a conductor, and upon the instant it touches the tip, there is a blinding flash. An electrifying jolt runs through your body and a deafening screech splits the air. For a terrifying moment the tip of the Sommerswerd becomes molten and begins to lose its rigidity, then there is another flash, and he power of the ring rebounds from your divine blade and returns towards its source, conquered and repelled by the goodly might of the Sword of the Sun.</p>
- <p>For an instant you glimpse the Prince<ch.apos/>s face<ch.emdash/>it is a mask of abject terror. Then the vortex reaches him and, in an instant, he is swallowed up by a whirlwind of supernatural fire.</p>
- <p><quote>So perish all who serve the Dark God!</quote> you scream, elated by your victory over the evil Prince Lutha.</p>
- <choice idref="sect17"><link-text>Turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gwynian ushers you through into an adjoining chamber where floating bulbs of light illuminate a stone table covered with charts and scrolls.</p>
- <p><quote>What news have you of Sommerlund?</quote> you ask anxiously.</p>
- <p><quote>Grave news,</quote> replies Gwynian, with an ominous tone. He picks up a chart from the table and traces a finger across the intricate lines and calculations that embellish its ancient yellowed surface.</p>
- <p><quote>The Dark God Naar has opened a Shadow Gate in the Durncrag mountains, a corridor between our world and his. By means of this corridor he has sent a host of winged creatures<ch.emdash/>the Lavas<ch.emdash/>to assail your monastery. It is his plan to destroy the young order of Kai warriors while you are not able to lead them. The Shadow Gate opened at the time of the last full moon and, since then, the Kai Monastery has been attacked many times. Naar<ch.apos/>s servants have your stronghold encircled and cut oft from the armies of King Ulnar, who has repeatedly sought to break the siege. Your Kai have withstood the attacks well, Lone Wolf, but they are weakening. Only you can save them now.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But how?</quote> you ask, shaken by Gwynian<ch.apos/>s account of the events which have occurred during your absence from the monastery. <quote>If the armies of King Ulnar are powerless to break the siege, how can I hope to save my brethren?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Do not despair, Lone Wolf,</quote> replies Gwynian, reassuringly. <quote>All is not yet lost. You can save your brave order by closing the gate through which Naar sends his Lavas minions.</quote></p>
- <p>You are about to ask how you could possibly achieve this, how you could close the Shadow Gate, but your urgent question is forestalled when Gwynian raises his hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Patience for just a moment, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says and he allows himself a smile. <quote>I, humble Gwynian, possess the means by which you can thwart the Dark God<ch.apos/>s murderous plan.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Bravely Nathor stifles his urge to scream as you take hold of his shattered ankle. You summon your healing powers and transmit them through your fingers to his injured foot (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 3). You feel the warmth of your power begin to reduce the swollen tissues and mend the broken bones, but before you can complete the cure, a yelling horde of bogus castle guardsmen come rushing into the stables with their swords drawn. They see you, and you have barely enough time to draw your weapon before they launch a manic attack.</p>
- <p>Castle guardsmen (imposters) <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 48 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 48</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>While riding the road to Duadon, you search the bags which hang from the saddle of your new-found horse. Among the things they contain are a spare Eldenoran uniform and rain-cape. You throw the uniform away, but you sling the voluminous cape around your shoulders and fix the clasp under your chin. Mindful of the increased risks of detection the nearer you get to Duadon, this simple black cape serves two useful purposes: it keeps hidden your Kai clothes and gives you the outward appearance of an Eldenoran horseman. (You need not record this cape on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <p>Among the other items you discover in the saddle-bags are:</p>
- <p>Enough food for 2 Meals</p>
- <p>Mace</p>
- <p>Rope</p>
- <p>Tinderbox</p>
- <p>8 Lune (equivalent to 2 Cold Crowns)</p>
- <p>Mirror</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of these items, remember to adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <p>During the remaining daylight hours, you frequently see units of Eldenorans on the road, most marching westwards with long pikes over their shoulders. None of them challenge you as you pass them by, for they assume you are a cavalry scout going about his duty. After spending a comfortable night in the loft of a deserted hay barn, you continue your ride at first light and reach the outskirts of Duadon shortly before midday.</p>
- <p>The Eldenoran capital is a grey and unlovely place. Its cold stone buildings bear the scars of a city whose history is one of near-continual warfare. The roads leading to the city gates are crowded with regiments on the move, and soon you find yourself caught up to a large body of troops which is snaking slowly towards Duadon<ch.apos/>s heavily fortified western approach. The mood of the troops is one of studied indifference, a condition which often prevails in those who have become emotionally numbed by the horrors of war. As this sullen mass moves through the west gate, you glance up at the battlements and notice a red-robed figure clutching a long staff of glowing white metal. A tingle of apprehension runs the length of your spine when you recognize the figure to be a Cener druid. The staff he holds radiates a magical aura and you sense at once that he is scanning the arriving soldiers, using the staff to determine, amongst other things, if any have contracted plague. Suddenly the Cener becomes agitated and he sprints the length of the battlements to sound an alarm bell. Within a few moments, the west gate is sealed by a heavy iron portcullis and panic sweeps through the troops who have been shut outside. You look up at the battlements once more and this time your heart skips a beat; the Cener is pointing his glowing staff directly at your head.</p>
- <p>From out of the crowd of panic-struck soldiers there bursts a unit of Duadon guards armed with spears and throwing nets. They are led by a bearded, one-eyed sergeant who barks an order at you to throw down your weapons and dismount from your horse.</p>
- <p><quote>Do as I say,</quote> he growls, murderously, <quote>or I<ch.apos/>ll cut out your liver and feed it to the crows.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect236">If you decide to do as he says, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you choose to ignore his command and get ready to defend yourself, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Very well, Grand Master, if this is the way you choose to proceed with your journey, then you are welcome to ride with me.</quote></p>
- <p>You accept Cearmaine<ch.apos/>s offer and, within the hour, you and he are on the road once more, this time riding north on horseback towards the battle that is raging at the Reloni Bridge. When you are three miles from the dyer you can see the night sky lit up by the fires of war. At two miles, the sounds of singing steel and dying men can he heard on the wind. At a mile distant, you see fields littered with the wounded and dying recently evacuated from the front, and regiments of young Palmyrion reserves nervously awaiting their turn to go forward. And when at last you catch sight of the bridge itself, your stomach churns as you witness the carnage being wrought there.</p>
- <p>The bridge, and the surrounding banks of the river, are carpeted with dead and dying men, twisted into impossible shapes. Massive engines of war bombard the soldiers on both sides, raining fiery death and destruction upon their heads. You have seen many battles in your time, but none to rival the savagery of the conflict that is unfolding here.</p>
- <p>Cearmaine catches hold off a young lieutenant whose face is covered with dried blood. Part of his scalp has been sliced away but he seems unaware of his gaping wound. Cearmaine barks a question and the man answers him by pointing to a regiment of pikemen stationed on a distant hill.</p>
- <p><quote>There stand the Black Ravens<ch.emdash/>my son<ch.apos/>s men. I must away now, Grand Master, so I bid you farewell. The enemy have been repulsed this last hour and are gathering themselves for their next attack. If you are determined to cross the water to their side, you should attempt it now, before they advance again.</quote> Cearmaine turns his horse about and makes ready to ride off. <quote>By the Gods, Grand Master, you are brave to have chosen this road home!</quote> he says, saluting you. <quote>I wish you luck<ch.emdash/>may Kai and Ishir keep you safe. Farewell, my friend. Farewell!</quote></p>
- <p>As the captain gallops away, you look with mounting dread at the slaughter. To cross the river by the bridge is impossible; the only ways across are either upstream to the north, or downstream to the south. To the north you see a dense wall of trees on the far bank, which, judging by the number of arrow-struck bodies lying nearby, you hazard is full of enemy archers. To the south, the far shore is a mass of heavily fortified trenches filled to overflowing with Eldenoran assault troops.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to attempt to cross the river north of the bridge, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you decide to try a crossing to the south of the bridge, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fall backwards and land heavily among the damp, jagged rocks. The hard fall gashes your head and injures your back: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your sudden movement alerts a lavas to your position on the mountainside and it circles around Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie until it is sure that what it has seen is human. Once it spots you lying dazed among the rocks, it gives a piercing shriek. Like a predatory bird, it comes diving out of the sky, its claws extended and its beaked jaw open wide.</p>
- <choice idref="sect108"><link-text>Turn to 108</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using the Brotherhood spell <spell>Slow Fall</spell> you are able to control the rate of your descent. Unfortunately, Lord Constable Nathor does not possess this ability and, as you are beginning to slow down, he comes tumbling past you, his eyes and mouth wide with terror.</p>
- <p>You stretch out and make a grab for his cloak as he hurtles past. You manage to get a grip and hold on fast, but as you are nearing the ground, the cloak comes unfastened and he falls the last twenty feet to the flagstoned keep. Upon landing, you discover that Nathor is still alive, but his left ankle is badly broken and his face is cut and bruised. Despite his obvious pain he manages a smile, revealing gaps where he is missing two of his teeth.</p>
- <p>Bravely Nathor stifles his urge to scream as you take hold of his shattered ankle. You summon your healing powers and transmit them through your fingers to his injured foot (reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score by 3). You feel the warmth of your power start to reduce the swollen tissues and mend the broken bone, but before you can complete the cure, a yelling horde of bogus castle guardsmen come rushing from the gatehouse with their swords drawn. You draw your weapon and crouch in readiness to meet their manic attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Castle guardsmen (imposters)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect93">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You instruct Captain D<ch.apos/>Val to retreat with the regiment fifty yards back along the trail. When he has complied with your order, you move upstream until you can see, at an angle, the source of the ultra-violet beam: it is a small metallic polyhedron, studded with rivets.</p>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point the index finger of your right hand at the device. A tingle runs the length of your arm and a crackling arc of power jumps from your finger to the polyhedron. Instantly, there is a violent explosion which peppers lie area around the ford with sharp splinters of rock. As the dust of the explosion clears, you signal to D<ch.apos/>Val to bring the regiment forward.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank Ishir you<ch.apos/>re with us,</quote> says the Captain, as he leads the men across the ford. <quote>Without you, this wicked sorcery would have cost us dear.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dorst doubles the guard in case the Kraan should decide to return during the night. Then he and the others unpack their sleeping furs and settle down to a night<ch.apos/>s rest beside the warmth of the camp fire embers. For an hour you lay awake, staring uneasily at the sky, until fatigue finally overtakes you and you slip into a deep sleep.</p>
- <choice idref="sect299"><link-text>Turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Still shaking from the effects of your return through the Shadow Gate, you slowly get to your feet and look out across the surrounding foothills. Here, on your home world, several hours have passed since you were carried through the Gate and into the Plane of Darkness, and as you survey the land, you notice that the first rays of the Fehmarn dawn are beginning to colour the eastern horizon.</p>
- <p>You look down at the mountainous slopes which descend before the yawning black mouth of the Shadow Gate, and, to your relief, you see the faint golden shimmer of the Sun-Crystal. It is still lying where it fell, thirty feet below where you are now standing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you possess Kai alchemy, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Thane or higher, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect10">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Among the unconscious officer<ch.apos/>s possessions, you discover the following:</p>
- <p>Map of Palmyrion</p>
- <p>Backpack</p>
- <p>Dagger</p>
- <p>Scroll</p>
- <p>Pouch containing 12 Gold Crowns</p>
- <p>Pouch containing 2 potions of Laumspur</p>
- <p>Pouch of tobacco</p>
- <p>Military Pass</p>
- <p>If you decide to keep any of the above, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133">To continue, <link-text>turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your slain steed crashes to the ground and you are catapulted head over heels through the air. You land heavily among boulders and bracken which border the hill road, hiring your forehead with a sickening crack: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Nauseous and dizzy from the impact, you struggle to stand up. You are barely back on your feet when suddenly a yelling horde of leather-clad men, each brandishing a sword or a spear, emerge from hiding places among the trees and come rushing at you from all sides. You must fight them.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran ambushers</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">42</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Due to the effect of your fall, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by 4 for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A cold lance of fear stabs your heart the moment you see the face of the ghostly rider. You recognize it immediately to be Roark<ch.emdash/>the highborn lording of Amory who chose to follow the ways of Evil.</p>
- <p>Roark was once a powerful disciple of the Demonlord Tagazin and a secret practitioner of the foul arts of the Cener Druids, but he has long since perished in the flesh. Yet his evil spirit lives on, tortured and restless, doomed to ride the deserted streets of his shattered city.</p>
- <p>As the ghastly spectre of Roark comes rushing towards you on his hellish steed, his mouth opens and a hideous shriek fills the air. You feel a pressure rapidly building in your head, an agonizing force that threatens to tear your skull apart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Two miles further along the Alema trail, you catch your first glimpse of Naar<ch.apos/>s minions. You see five horny-skinned creatures, hovering on the breeze, thirty feet above the distant treeline.</p>
- <p>These creatures have wings and tails that shimmer like burnished gold, and armour-like plates which protect their limbs and bellies. From their beaks protrude snaky tongues, and their claw-like hands and feet are tipped with talons that glint like sharpened knives in the sunlight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you have visited Ixia, or Lake Vorndarol, in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you have ever visited these places, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cross to the far side of the river and wait there as the first few wolf-creatures come racing towards the bridge. The pack leader is a massive brute with ghastly yellow eyes that seem to follow your every move. The moment he reaches the bridge approach, you focus your psychic power at the nearest statue. Your concentrated pulse of psychic energy shatters this sculpture with devastating effect, peppering the hellish beast with razor-sharp shards of stone.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The defenders on the North Watch fight like lions. The battle is fierce and bloody throughout the monastery, but the struggle is soon won and the shaken remnants of the winged attackers are repelled with heavy losses. A great cheer goes up as the last of the battered lavas limps into the air and makes its escape towards the Durncrags.</p>
- <p>You are moving slowly along the battlements, helping the wounded and praising those Kai who have shown exceptional bravery, when Banedon approaches.</p>
- <p><quote>The time is ripe for you to begin your mission, Grand Master,</quote> he says, as he watches the last of the enemy wave disappearing into the mountains. <quote>They have lost many this night<ch.emdash/>it is unlikely they will return before the dawn.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Yes, my friend,</quote> you reply, touching the pocket of your tunic which contains the Sun-Crystal, <quote>you are right. The time has come. I will leave for Raven<ch.apos/>s Eerie at once.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your Kai instincts, you remove the seal from your tunic pocket and show it to the sallow-faced guard. He grunts his approval and then shuffles back to his cronies seated beside the tent. Calmly, you proceed to cross the bridge without paying them a second glance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209"><link-text>Turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you stop to survey the shops and stalls which encircle this busy square, you recall the welcome help you received from Gwynian the Sage the last time you visited here. You remember vividly your meeting with him at the Halls of Learning, but you have no idea whereabouts in this vast city the Halls are located.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to go in search of the Halls of Learning, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you decide not to seek Gwynian, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of your attackers collapses at your feet, you turn and run headlong down the steep hill track. Arrows and spears whistle past on all sides as you endeavour to outrun the remaining ambushers. By dint of luck and speed, Nathor and his troop of court cavalry have survived the Eldenoran ambush with little injury and no los. of life. You see them in the distance, gathered in a group on the valley floor, and you wave to them to show that you are still alive. Immediately Nathor gallops away from the troop and comes speeding up the track to your rescue. As he gets nearer he slows his horse to allow you to leap astride its rump. Once aboard, he pulls his steed about and descends once more towards he valley floor, cheered on by his anxious men.</p>
- <p><quote>Follow me!</quote> commands the Lord Constable as he gallops past his troop without slowing. You glance over your shoulder and see them spur their steeds forward, their faces set in expressions of grim determination. Upon entering the village, you note a number of frightened women and children who are huddled beside stone walls or lying beneath hay carts. Some are cradling the bodies of their dead menfolk who lie scattered in the fields nearby. Then you catch sight of a group of Eldenorans in the grounds of the abbey. All are laden with loot, yet even so there are some who are squabbling amongst themselves in an effort to grab an even bigger share of the booty.</p>
- <p>Nathor brings his steed to a halt and you both quickly dismount. As your feet touch the ground, you notice a drunken Eldenoran come lurching out of the doorway of a nearby cottage. He has a flagon of ale in one hand and a young woman, with a crying baby in the other. He sees you and, in a moment of drunken panic, he drops the flagon and unsheathes a dagger from his belt. It is clear from his actions that he intends to stab the screaming child.</p>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you possess Magi-magic and have reached the Kai rank of Grand Thane, or higher, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you possess a bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you possess neither a bow, nor any of the above skills, (or should you decide not to use them), <link-text>turn instead to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel your psychic powers burrowing through Naar<ch.apos/>s ethereal barrier. You have almost penetrated this shield when suddenly you sense the presence of the Dark God himself; he is pouring the essence of his Evil into the breach, repairing the damage you have inflicted.</p>
- <p>Immediately you cease your telegnosis. You are mortally afraid of allowing Naar the opportunity of locating and attacking your mindforce, for if he was to do so, you risk losing not only your sanity but also your soul!</p>
- <choice idref="sect136"><link-text>Turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the crystal ring there pours forth a torrent of energy, a crackling vortex of evil power that whirls around and around the wall of the circular shaft as it slowly descends towards you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess a Platinum Amulet, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect345">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The death of Vaxagore stuns the dragon herd into frozen silence, and you seize this opportunity to make a dash for the Shadow Gate. Before Naar can direct his lavas to block your escape, you reach the Gate and hurl yourself through into the whirling black abyss.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69"><link-text>Turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow Cearmaine and the young lieutenant out of the Canatarium and along a crowded avenue towards a tented encampment in the city<ch.apos/>s main park. Here, under a canvas awning, the Captain finds his mortally wounded son being attended to by an army physician.</p>
- <p><quote>Will he pull through?</quote> asks Cearmaine, of the physician whose white surgical apron is stained deep crimson with the blood of all those he has attempted to save this day. The weary man does not answer<ch.emdash/>he simply shakes his head and leaves to attend yet another poor wretch who is crying out for him to end his suffering.</p>
- <p>Cearmaine<ch.apos/>s son has a deep chest wound which, on closer inspection, you determine was made by a poisoned arrow. The physician has removed the shaft but the poison has long since entered the young man<ch.apos/>s bloodstream. His life is fast ebbing away and you sense there is very little you can do to save him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you possess Deliverance, and have reached he rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having slain all of the guardsmen, and their sergeant, with stunning ease, the surrounding crowd of Eldenoran pikemen now look at you with fearful respect. You seize the opportunity to wheel your horse about and then you spur him to the gallop and scatter a score of soldiers as you attempt an escape along the crowded west road. Soon the cry goes up from the city<ch.apos/>s battlements to stop you and, when you are only a few hundred yards away from the gatehouse, your horse is brought crashing to the ground by a volley of arrows.</p>
- <p>A mass of angry Eldenorans close in and grab hold of you before you can get to your feet. Roughly they bind your hands with cord, then they confiscate your weapons, money pouch, backpack and cape (delete these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; you need not erase any Special Items however, as none of these are taken).</p>
- <p>Minutes later, the staff-wielding Cener arrives with a horse-drawn cart into which the soldiers bundle you unceremoniously. The robed druid cackles like a crazed maniac, ecstatic at having identified and captured Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>the destroyer of so many of his evil brethren. His vile laughter echoes in your ears as he lashes the horses and steers his rickety cart back to the gatehouse and into the dark streets of Duadon beyond. After a short and bruising journey at breakneck speed, you pass beneath the imposing arch of Skull-Tor, the fortified bastion of Duadon<ch.apos/>s long line of past rulers, and descend a stone ramp to an underground gaol. Here you are greeted by a squad of brutal guards who beat you mercilessly with staves (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before imprisoning you in a circular pit infested with vermin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai masteries warn you that another flight of lavas are about to emerge from the Shadow Gate. You flatten yourself against the damp granite rocks and wait until this second flight pass overhead before resuming your steady advance up the mountainside towards the Gate, now less than a hundred yards distant.</p>
- <p>When you have climbed to within thirty yards, you draw back your arm and get ready to hurl the Sun-Crystal into the inky black core. At this moment, a piercing shriek rises above the throbbing hum of the Shadow Gate and, to your horror, you look up to see a lavas diving towards your chest. Hurriedly you throw the Sun-Crystal before the creature can press home its attack.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The smooth dark hair and noble countenance of the Lord Constable is oddly familiar, reminding you of someone whose name momentarily you cannot recall.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, my Lord,</quote> he says, with a respectful salute, <quote>I an Nathor, Lord Constable of the Royal Citadel. My troop would be honoured to escort you to an audience with Queen Evaine.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Pray tell me, Lord Constable,</quote> you reply, <quote>have we not met before?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>No, sire. I venture you must be thinking of my late brother<ch.emdash/>Adamas. He held the office of Lord Constable afore me. I understand that you and he once fought together in the war <ch.apos/>gainst the Darklords. He spoke most highly of your courage. Sadly, though, he is no longer with us. He died valiantly during the great siege of Torgar.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon the bellowed command of their leader, the onrushing horsemen split into two groups. One group continues their charge towards you while the other slows to a halt to await the outcome. You sense that they are used to picking off lone travellers in this fashion; no sense expending the energy of twelve men when the job can be accomplished by six. But this time they have underestimated their enemy and it is a mistake you intend them to pay dearly for.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you possess a bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have no desire to become embroiled in this argument, and so you take your leave of the taproom and return to the stables to collect your horse.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you despatch the last of the war-dogs, you turn and run headlong into the forest. The Eldenoran archers attempt to give chase, and several of their arrows come whistling past as you make your escape, but you soon out-distance them and reluctantly they are forced to call off the pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call on your Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery, as well as your natural agility and dexterity, to slow your descent into this syrupy mire. After several anxious minutes, with the foul morass lapping at your chest, you feel yourself no longer sinking any deeper into the bog. Now, using your hands and your weapons, you heave your way slowly through this stinking bog until, at last, you feel the welcome sensation of firm ground beneath your feet. Breathless and exhausted, you crawl out of the ooze and collapse on a bank of soft, dark earth.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. The number you have picked equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost in your struggle to free yourself from the mire (0 = 10).</p>
- <p>As soon as you are able, you get to your feet and hurry away from this foul morass, heading north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect43"><link-text>Turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Penetrate</spell> and direct its power to the tip of your arrow. Instantly, its steel point and shaft become as hard as diamond. Then, with a prayer to Ishir on your lips, you release your straining bowstring and send the arrow whistling towards the dragon<ch.apos/>s head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery (with Bow), add 5 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Nexus, add 2. If you possess Telegnosis, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If your total score is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If it is 8<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If it is 10 or more, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take a lungful of air and dive once more below the surface, but as you submerge, you feel the stinging kiss of an arrow<ch.apos/>s tip graze the top of your head: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>On reaching the far bank, you use the corpses that litter the shoreline for cover. You wait here, absolutely motionless, for nearly fifteen minutes before crawling from the water and slithering on your stomach into the wood which commands this stretch of the river bank. Your stealth and your Kai camouflage skills keep you hidden from the watchful eyes of the Eldenoran archers who infest these trees, but they do not fool their keen-nosed war-dogs. You have barely reached the treeline when they begin to bark and howl.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are woken at dawn by one of Dorst<ch.apos/>s men who immediately hands you a steaming mug of Huas, a delicious Palmyrion beverage. You notice the others are in various states of waking and, as you sip your reviving drink, you watch Dorst shaving at the stream. After a while the Baroness emerges from her carriage. She appears as fresh as a spring flower, and together you breakfast before the camp is struck and you go your separate ways.</p>
- <p><quote>If ever you visit Lucia Province,</quote> she says, leaning from the open window of her carriage, <quote>be sure to visit my estate in Gadorvo.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I would be honoured, my Lady,</quote> you reply, and wave to her until, at last, her carriage and riders disappear into the hills.</p>
- <p>The weather is warmer than of late and you make good progress despite the poor condition of the road. An hour past midday, as you are crossing a treeless valley, you happen upon a young man praying at a wayside shrine. He is dressed in a guildsman<ch.apos/>s tunic and cloak, and he appears to be unarmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170">If you wish to stop and question this young man, <link-text>turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you decide to ignore him and continue on your way, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The stench of the circular pit is almost unbearable. The floor is covered with a brackish green slime in which a host of flea-infested rats are scratching for food. In the dim half-light you watch with a mixture of fascination and revulsion as these vicious rats burrow nose-first into the evil-smelling mire, pausing only to fight when one of them uncovers the prey that they are hunting for: glistening, black-bodied worms.</p>
- <p>Using your Magnakai skill of Nexus, you are able to free your hands from the cords that bind them. Escape from this pit is now foremost in your mind. Beyond the wall you can hear the sound of rushing water and, when you move to where the sound is loudest, you discover a panel partially concealed by slime. A closer inspection reveals it to be an opening to a circular chute. You are working on a way to prise open this panel, hoping it will lead to a way out of the pit, when suddenly there is a grating rumble high above. A column of bright light invades the gloom and, squealing with fright, the rats burrow frantically into the slime to avoid it.</p>
- <p><quote>Well well, if it isn<ch.apos/>t Grand Master Lone Wolf himself!</quote> booms a man<ch.apos/>s voice from the top of the shaft. <quote>How good of you to come to Duadon in person. You have saved me the further expense of having you hunted down and brought here in chains.</quote></p>
- <p>Quickly your eyes grow accustomed to the light and you see, peering over the lip of an open trapdoor at the top of the shaft, the sneering face of a young man. His pointed beard and moustache are trimmed to perfection, and his dark eyes twinkle with a cold malevolence that places a chill in your very soul. His skin is unusually pale and, judging from the wealth of gold embellishment that bedecks the neck of his velvet tunic, you feel sure that he is Prince Lutha, the self-appointed ruler of this city.</p>
- <p><quote>What do you intend for me?</quote> you ask aloud, but silently you are dreading his answer. The Prince does not reply directly, he simply utters a soft, chilling laugh as he extends his right hand. On his index finger you see a glowing ring of green crystal and, in a moment of terror, you realize that it is an artefact of pure evil, fashioned by, and imbued with, the power of the Dark God Naar himself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you possess the Sommerswerd, and wish to unsheathe it, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you possess Magi-magic, and have attained the Kai rank of Grand Thane, or higher, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you possess Assimilance, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian or higher, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you do not possess any of the above Special Items, Grand Master Disciplines, or if you have yet to attain the relevant levels of Kai Mastery, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For a few moments you hurtle through the cold night air, oblivious to your surroundings. Then, in a terrifying instant, you glimpse the flagstones of the keep and the roof of the castle stables: they are more than a hundred feet below.</p>
- <p>Your stomach churns with fear as you watch the hard, unyielding flagstones of the keep come rushing towards you at dizzying speed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have reached the Kai rank of Sun Thane or higher, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you possess Kai-alchemy but have yet to reach this level of Kai rank, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn instead to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You spend a cold and uncomfortable night sheltering beneath a stone bridge near the centre of this forest town (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The rain which began at dusk, eases off at dawn. In the grey half-light, you gather some nutritious roots and grasses for your mare and allow her to finish them before setting off on the trail which heads east out of Ellio.</p>
- <choice idref="sect176"><link-text>Turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon and brace yourself in the stirrups as the winged horror comes swooping down to rake you with its sword-sharp claws.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>The creature is attempting to claw you as it swoops past, therefore fight this combat for <cite>one round only</cite>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If, in this single round of combat, you lose more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points than your enemy, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If your enemy loses more <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points, or if the loss is identical, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and urge your frightened horse along the track. As you reach the perimeter of the conifer coppice, the leading wolf-creatures draw alongside and begin to claw and bite at your steed<ch.apos/>s flanks. Desperately you lash out, left and right, in an attempt to cut them down before they can drag your shrieking horse to the ground.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Hounds of Vikkak</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In desperation you draw upon your psychic Kai defence skills to erect a shield around your mind. This eases the agony coursing through your head, but your body sustains a severe battering before you are able to control the pain that grips your torso and limbs: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gradually, you feel your pain subsiding. Flashing motes of light are now beginning to whirl past you in the inky blackness, and faint sounds are reaching your ears, emanating from a pinpoint of light in the far distance. This speck of light steadily grows until it seems to fill your senses, and, with an abruptness that leaves you gasping for breath, you suddenly find yourself lying face-down on a slab of damp granite.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276"><link-text>Turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and, as you feel gravity losing its grip, you leap from the floor of the pit in order to boost the effects of the spell.</p>
- <p>Prince Lutha sees you come soaring up the shaft towards him and he is frozen with shock. Your swift action prevents him from activating the evil power of the ring he wears, a power which could spell your doom, but you sense that it is only a matter of seconds before he comes to his senses.</p>
- <p>You rise up through the opening and strike a blow with your fist which glances off the side of Lutha<ch.apos/>s face. He reels backwards, but the sudden pain serves to awaken him from his shock, and when he comes back at you he has a needle-sharp dagger clasped in his hand.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Prince Lutha (with Ring of Power)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">54</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">39</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>While wearing the Ring of Power, Lutha is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For several hours you wait in the crowded Canatarium for Captain Cearmaine to return. Then, shortly before nightfall, the Captain enters by the main doors, his head bowed with sorrow. You sense at once that his son has died of his wounds, and you try to console him as best you can.</p>
- <p><quote>I must go to his regiment,</quote> says Cearmaine, his voice full of emotion. <quote>It is right and fitting that I take command of them now.</quote></p>
- <p>You learn that his son<ch.apos/>s regiment is stationed at the Reloni Bridge, at the very heart of the battle. Before the Captain leaves, he wishes you good luck and suggests two routes by which you can reach the distant city of Casiorn from here.</p>
- <p>The first route is the most direct, but it is also the most hazardous. It requires you to pass through the enemy lines at the Reloni Bridge, cross the southern tip of Eldenora, then continue your journey north by way of the Slovarian Plain.</p>
- <p>The second route will avoid the fighting at the Reloni Bridge, but it would mean having to pass through the city of Duadon<ch.emdash/>Prince Lutha<ch.apos/>s stronghold. (Consult the <a idref="map">map</a> at the beginning of this book before making your choice.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If you choose to take the Reloni Bridge/Slovarian Plain route to Casiorn, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you decide to take the Duadon/Rhem route instead, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way across this busy square and enter Ladder Way, a thoroughfare which heads towards the very heart of Varetta. Apothecaries and candlemakers<ch.apos/> shops flank this wide street until it opens up on an ornate park filled with rare and beautiful flowers.</p>
- <p>To the west of the park you notice a fortified tower, by far the tallest in the city. You feel inexplicably drawn towards this tower; it is as if it possesses the solution to all your problems. You leave the park by its west gate and enter a wider thoroughfare called Brass Street. Here you see the courtyard entrance to a grand building whose brick and marble fa<ch.ccedil/>ade is adorned with the words: HALLS OF LEARNING.</p>
- <p>You enter and ride along a gravelled path which leads to a budding where a sign, hanging over its richly-carved oak door, simply says: LIBRARY. You feel compelled to stop here and, without quite knowing why, you dismount from your horse and tie his reins to a ring which is set into the wall. Then you push open the door and enter the library<ch.apos/>s cool interior.</p>
- <p>Countless thousands of books and parchments crowd the stone shelves of this magnificent library. Your eyes travel along them until they reach another door at the far end of the hall. There, standing framed in its archway, is an old man clad in plain brown robes. He looks at you and smiles knowingly.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Grand Master,</quote> he says, <quote>I have been expecting you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you have ever visited a hut on Raider<ch.apos/>s Road, the city of Tahou, or Lake Vorndarol (in previous Lone Wolf adventures), <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you have never visited any of these places, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you sense that the poison gas has dissipated and the air is no longer perilous to breathe, you enter the cell and take one last look at the prisoner<ch.apos/>s body. The man<ch.apos/>s face and upper body have been horribly disfigured by the effects of the gas, yet the extensive blistering has only partially destroyed a small tattoo on the side of his neck. It is a six-pointed star which you recognize to be the national symbol of Eldenora.</p>
- <p><quote>He must have died within seconds of biting into the poisoned pellet,</quote> says Nathor. <quote>It chills me to think that whoever sent him here commanded such respect from this man that he chose in die in this way rather than face the consequences of failing his mission.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye, and if there are others like him who are out to stop me,</quote> you reply, uneasily, <quote>then my journey home to Sommerlund may prove more difficult than I expected.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you fall backwards into the cold water, a splinter of rock slices through your upper left arm: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Gritting your teeth against the stinging pain, you struggle to your feet and use your Kai healing skills to staunch the bleeding. The dust of the explosion is clearing and you can see D<ch.apos/>Val bringing the regiment forward.</p>
- <p><quote>Are you badly injured, Grand Master?</quote> he shouts, as he comes riding through the water.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.apos/>ll live,</quote> you retort, and hurry to remount your skittish horse.</p>
- <p><quote>Thank Ishir you<ch.apos/>re with us,</quote> says the Captain, as together you return to the regiment and lead them across the ford. <quote>Without you, this wicked sorcery would have cost us dear.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect235"><link-text>Turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Moments before you reach him, he throws the young woman and her child to the ground and spins around to face you, his dagger hold poised to slash at your throat. He strikes and you dodge his first clumsy blow with ease. As he is about to strike out for a second time, you raise your weapon and aim a scything blow at his head.</p>
- <p>Eldenoran thug (drunk) <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 34 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 34</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense your psychic powers burrowing through Naar<ch.apos/>s ethereal barrier. You have almost penetrated this shield when suddenly you feel the presence of the Dark God himself; he is pouring the essence of his Evil into the breach, repairing the damage you have inflicted.</p>
- <p>Immediately you cease your telegnosis for fear of allowing Naar the opportunity of locating and attacking your mindforce. If he was to do so, you would risk losing not only your sanity but also your soul! You succeed in severing the telepathic link, but the abrupt cessation leaves you in psychic shock: lose S <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect136">To continue, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are woken by the clammy sensation of fine cold spray on your face. Reluctantly you prise open your sleep-clogged eyes and see that the sky above is uniformly grey, swaddled by a thick blanket of cloud. A fine drizzle is sweeping down across the plateau, but the darkening clouds above indicate that this is merely the prelude to heavier rain.</p>
- <p>Sure enough, within the hour you find yourself trekking north through a torrential downpour. The heavy rain makes the going difficult, but you take some comfort in the fact that it will lessen the odds of a chance encounter with an Eldenoran patrol.</p>
- <p>Later in the day you come to a ridge which overlooks a sizeable town positioned at the centre of a wide valley. A glance at your <a idref="map">map</a> confirms your suspicion that this town is Oredal, and, when you magnify your vision, you see that it is swarming with Eldenoran troops and horsemen. You decide to give this town a wide berth and you stay in the hills to avoid the risk of being detected. For two days you live off the land as you make your way steadily northwards. Despite the bad weather, and having to go on foot, you make excellent progress. On the morning of the third day you come to a wood overlooking a small village called Nursha, which sits astride the main Rioma road. In the centre of this town there is a junction where another wide road branches off to the east. A large signpost at the junction says: Abisko<ch.emdash/>40 miles.</p>
- <p>From the dry shelter of the wood you observe the town for nearly an hour, but you detect no movement there whatsoever: the place appears to be completely deserted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect169">If you possess the Disciplines of Deliverance and Grand Pathsmanship, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you do not possess <cite>both</cite> of these Grand Master Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The lavas turn in mid-air and circle around the place where you lie. They have seen you and are getting ready to attack you with their fearsome claws. As they swoop down, you unsheathe your weapon and spring to your feet, determined to fight them off.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas sky patrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect346">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave Kalma and ride due east along a dusty track. Mile after mile of featureless grassland passes by on either side until, late in the afternoon, you enter a range of gentle, wooded hills. You have not gone very far before you discover a stream of sparkling water that is teeming with trout. Feeling tired and hungry, you decide to rest here and try your luck at catching some fresh fish for your supper.</p>
- <p>Within half an hour, you have collected six fine speckled specimens of Palmyrion trout, more than enough to sate your ravenous appetite. You are about to construct a small camp fire on which to cook them when suddenly you hear the sound of a wagon and horses approaching along the hill track from the east. Rather than run the risk of being confronted by bandits, you take cover behind a bush and wait for the wagon to appear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249"><link-text>Turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon before your face, dig your heels into the shifting soil, and pray to the Goddess Ishir to watch over you as the dragon gets ready to lash out with fang and claw.</p>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect239">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At first you are tempted to use your psychic Kai skills to influence this guard, to persuade him to lose interest in you and return to his pipe-smoking comrades seated outside the tent. But then you sense that they are not the only ones standing guard over this bridge. Beyond a nearby knoll you feel the presence of many horses and men: it is an Eldenoran cavalry encampment.</p>
- <p>When you delay in showing the sallow-faced guard the identification that he wants to see, he becomes abusive and threatens to throw you in the river. To quieten his anger, you offer him a bribe. It is an offer which gains his undivided attention. He says that for 20 Gold Crowns he will let you across the bridge. If you do not possess sufficient money, this greedy guard will settle for half of the items in your Backpack plus one Special Item of your choice. Not wishing to have an entire Eldenoran cavalry regiment descend on you, you reluctantly agree to his extortionate terms.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">Make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before <link-text>turning to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A steep path leads to a turreted gate which marks the entrance to this manor house. The house itself is barred and shuttered as if to withstand a siege. You ring a bell at the door but there is no reply. When you ring a second time, the shutters on an upstairs window creak open and the sneering face of an startlingly ugly woman peers down at you.</p>
- <p><quote>Whadya want?</quote> she snaps.</p>
- <p><quote>A room for the night and feed for my horse, if you<ch.apos/>d be so kind,</quote> you reply, as politely as you feel able. <quote>I<ch.apos/>d be prepared to pay, of course.</quote></p>
- <p>The wart-faced old woman snorts and retreats from view. Moments later, she suddenly reappears and hurls a rotten cabbage which catches you squarely in the face (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p><quote>Be off, y<ch.apos/> scraggin<ch.apos/> Northlander,<ch.apos/> she yells, <ch.apos/>afore I set the dogs on ya!</quote></p>
- <p>Wiping a trickle of blood from your nose, you turn your horse about and ride back down the path, cursing the old woman under your breath. As you pass through the turreted gate, she shouts out: <quote>I heard that!</quote></p>
- <p>As soon as you rejoin the main road, you urge your horse to a canter and ride into the village that lies a little way beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For an hour you ride across the rich grasslands of eastern Talestria until you come to a range of hills that are carpeted with scented spruce and pine. The road snakes its way through this ruggedly beautiful landscape to a place where a smaller track branches off the main trail, heading south. A huge boulder of red granite marks the start of this adjoining track, yet there is no signpost to indicate where it leads. Using your Kai tracking skills, you determine that the track has been used by men and horses during the last twenty-four hours.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you wish to investigate the track, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect11">If you choose to ignore it and continue along the main east road, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you focus your Kai senses upon this device, you suddenly realize its true purpose: it detects light in the infra-red spectrum. It is a means by which the Cener Druid can locate objects in the dark by the heat radiating from them. Many of the men, whose corpses now provide you with cover, were detected crossing the river this way.</p>
- <p>Forewarned by your advanced mastery, you slip back into the water and allow the current to carry you a few hundred yards downstream. Here you discover a shallow bay in the river bank which affords you cover from the device, and also from the nearest enemy trench. Quickly you slither like a snake up the muddy bank and drop silently into this trench. A dull-witted Eldenoran is quickly dispatched with a blow from the edge of your hand, enabling you to move further along this log-walled ditch. Just as you are passing the opening to a makeshift dug-out, you sense danger ahead. A single file of Eldenoran swordsmen are marching along the trench in your direction: it will only be a matter of seconds before they are close enough to see you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect185">If you wish to dive into the dug-out to avoid being seer by these men, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you choose to unsheathe your weapon and prepare for combat with this advancing file of troops, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You give thanks for your mastery of Nexus, for you sense that it is protecting your body from the extreme heat and toxic atmosphere of this hellish plane. However, your mastery alone is not sufficient to protect you from the creatures that are now advancing rapidly towards the Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bring your horse to a halt at the approach to the bridge and quickly recite the complex intonations of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Power Glyph</spell>. For a brief moment, a faint shimmering light dances on the piled surfaces of the first two statues, indicating that he spell has been successfully activated. An invisible barrier is now in place across the entrance to the bridge; anything passing through this barrier will trigger a massive discharge of magical energy.</p>
- <p>You canter your horse across the river and wait on the far side as the first few wolf-creatures come racing towards the bridge. The pack leader, a massive brute with ghastly yellow eyes, breaks the invisible barrier and, amidst a crackling flash of sparks, he is flung high into the air like a soaring meteor, his black fur and tail blazing fiercely.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow Gwynian through a series of corridors to a stable from where he brings forth a magnificent white stallion, the finest steed you have ever seen.</p>
- <p><quote>This is Wildwind, Grand Master,</quote> says Gwynian, as he strokes the steed<ch.apos/>s muscular neck. <quote>He will carry you to Casiorn far swifter than any horse you have known. Swifter than even your own fine steed, Storm.</quote></p>
- <p>You look into Wildwind<ch.apos/>s intelligent eyes and you detect the faint aura of magic about him. But it is not until you climb into the saddle that you sense his true power.</p>
- <p><quote>A thousand thanks, Gwynian. I am forever in your debt.</quote></p>
- <p>And with these words you bid Gwynian farewell and leave the Halls of Learning. You depart from Varetta through its great east gate and, once outside the city, you spur Wildwind to the gallop. You are astounded by his speed and untiring stamina: Gwynian was right<ch.emdash/>he is the fastest horse you have ever ridden. In little more than an hour you have covered sixty miles. It is only when you find yourself approaching a stone bridge, commanded by a huge gated archway, that you are forced to rein him to a halt. Above the archway you notice the words <quote>Denka Gate</quote> engraved into the stone. Below them, written in chalk, is the message: Toll<ch.emdash/>4 Gold Crowns.</p>
- <p>After a few minutes, an unshaven old man emerges from a door set into this grand gate. He holds out his hand and demands that you pay him the toll.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you wish to pay the gateman his toll of 4 Cold Crowns, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect331">If you cannot pay, or if you do not wish to, <link-text>turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap over the bodies of your Eldenoran foes and make your way swiftly along the trench beyond. Suddenly there is a terrific boom, and a brilliant splash of blue-white fire illuminates the budge behind you. It is the opening bombardment in yet another futile assault across the river.</p>
- <p>The trench ahead is empty; its owners have already gone forward to support the new attack. When you reach the end, you scramble over its muddy parapet and race head-down across a stretch of open ground towards a distant wood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly you feel your throat tighten, and the skin on your face and the backs of your hands begins to itch. With mounting dread you realize that you have been walking into an area which is infested with a virulent plague. Hurriedly, you run from the town as fast as you can, thankful that your Grand Master Discipline affords you some protection from the deadly plague virus which has decimated the population of Nursha, and turned it into a ghost town.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have chosen is even (0, 2, 4, 6, 8}, deduct 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current total. If the number you have picked is odd (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If you have survived your visit to Nursha, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you place your ear close to the trembling man<ch.apos/>s mouth and try to identify the name he is struggling hard to utter.</p>
- <p><quote>L<ch.ellips/> L<ch.ellips/> Lutha,</quote> he breathes. Then he gives a chilling snigger and you feel the hairs on the nape of your neck begin to rise. Your sixth senses are screaming a warning: you are in danger. With his tongue, the prisoner dislodges a hollow tooth and bites down hard upon it. It releases a vile greenish gas which he exhales directly into your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With renewed vigour you swim against the powerful current and reach the distant shore. As you emerge from the water you are thankful for two reasons: for having survived the crossing, and for having escaped in one piece from the hostile land of Eldenora.</p>
- <p>Once you are fully recovered, you put on your boots and cloak and take stock of your surroundings. You have emerged from the Storn at a wooded stretch of riverbank, less than a mile south of the city of Rhem. You set off along a track heading north and, within a few minutes, you catch sight of the city walls and its famous horseshoe-shaped harbour.</p>
- <p>You enter the city by its south gate, using your Kai camouflage skills and your natural stealth to avoid the attentions of the watchful guards. Once inside, you merge with the crowds and soon find yourself in a square that is overshadowed by the twin towers of Rhem Cathedral. An avenue runs along the cathedral<ch.apos/>s south side and, at its far end, your eye is drawn to a rusty suit of armour which stands beside the door to a dingy-looking weapons shop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to enter this armoury, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect36">If you decide not to enter, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You resolve to reach a clearing in the Fryelund forest, a mile to the east of the monastery, where a secret entrance and passageway are located. The passage leads directly to your vault beneath the Tower of the Sun and it is your intention to gain entry to the monastery by this way. But no sooner have you begun to run for the trees, than a flight of winged lavas come soaring out of the clouds overhead. Swiftly you throw yourself to the ground and pray that they will not see you as they fly towards the ridge.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Huntmastery add 1</p>
- <choice idref="sect314">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If it is 4 or more, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press yourself as flat as you can against the sheer rock face of the ravine, and manage to hold tight until the deluge of loose shale ceases to fall. Once the dust has cleared, you find the remainder of the climb relatively easy, and you scramble quickly to the top of the ravine. There you pause for a few moments to check that your equipment is still intact, then you hurry away from the ravine, heading north.</p>
- <choice idref="sect191"><link-text>Turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You decline Dorst<ch.apos/>s offer politely and make an excuse that you are tired after your long day<ch.apos/>s ride. As he and his men settle down to a night<ch.apos/>s gambling, you go and check to see that your horse is comfortable. You are busy gathering some grasses for his feed when suddenly a shriek echoes through the hills<ch.emdash/>it is the unmistakable cry of a Kraan.</p>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Eeeargh!</quote> snorts the old man, impatiently, and begins to walk back to the door, <quote>Raggin<ch.apos/> time-waster!</quote></p>
- <p>Rather than being forced to make a long detour to avoid this bridge, you decide to try and barter with the gateman. Your proposal captures his interest and he demands to see what valuables you have. You show him your possessions and, after a few minutes thought, he agrees to let you pass in return for one of your Special Items (excluding the Sun-Crystal).</p>
- <p>Wary of the delay, you agree to his terms. (Erase one Special Item of your choosing from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">To continue, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly an explosion of scarlet light fills your vision and the taste of blood fills your mouth: you have been hit in the head by a crossbow bolt. Mercifully, death comes instantaneously.</p>
- <p>Sadly, though, your life and your journey home come to an abrupt end here, in the cold dark waters of the River Reloni.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Thank you, thank you<ch.ellips/></quote> cries the young woman, whose child you have just saved from certain death at the hands of the drunken thug. Sobbing with gratitude, she collapses at your feet. Gently you lift her by the arm and assure her with kind words that her ordeal is over. She smiles, reassured, but her expression quickly changes when she spots something moving behind you.</p>
- <p><quote>There he is, that cur Holkar!</quote> she spits. <quote>He<ch.apos/>s the murdering leader of these bandits. This chaos is his doing.</quote></p>
- <p>You turn to look at the object of her hatred, and see a swarthy brigand dodging between the gravestones that line the abbey grounds. He has a sack full of loot slung over his shoulder and he is hurrying towards his horse which stands close by the abbey<ch.apos/>s perimeter wall. Determined not to let him escape, you rush across the road and into the grounds of the abbey to give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect206"><link-text>Turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a prayer to the Goddess Ishir on your lips, you release your straining bowstring and send the arrow whistling towards the dragon<ch.apos/>s head.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If the number you have chosen is 0<ch.endash/>8, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If it is 9, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sheathe your weapon and wheel your horse away from the shouting guardsmen. Spurting him to the gallop, you scatter and trample a score of soldiers as you attempt to escape along the crowded west road. Soon the cry goes up to stop you and, when you are only a few hundred yards away from the gatehouse, your horse is brought crashing to the ground by an arrow in its right foreleg.</p>
- <p>A mass of angry Eldenorans close in and hold you firm until the garrison sergeant and his men catch up. Roughly they force you to your knees and quickly bind your hands with cord. Then your weapons, money pouch, backpack and cape are all confiscated (delete these from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>; you need not erase any Special Items however, as none of these are taken).</p>
- <p>Minutes later the staff-wielding Cener arrives with a horse-drawn cart into which the soldiers bundle you unceremoniously. The robed druid cackles like a crazed maniac, ecstatic at having identified and captured Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>the destroyer of so many of his evil brethren. His vile laughter echoes in your ears as he lashes the horses and steers his rickety cart back to the gatehouse and into the dark streets of Duadon beyond. After a short and bruising journey at breakneck speed, you pass beneath the imposing arch of Skull-Tor, the fortified bastion of Duadon<ch.apos/>s long line of past rulers, and descend a stone ramp to an underground gaol. Here you are greeted by a squad of brutal guards who beat you mercilessly with staves (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points) before imprisoning you in a circular pit infested with vermin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With stunning speed and accuracy, you let loose an arrow at the leading Eldenoran rider. The tip punctures his forehead and sends him tumbling backwards, his limbs flailing wildly, to disappear into the tall plains grass. Shocked by your bowskill, the brigand leader shouts a recall to his men. They wheel about and form up in a line behind him, cursing you for the death of their confederate. Then, with a vengeful yell, the brigand chief leads his gang of ruffians in a charge he hopes will trample you into the ground.</p>
- <p>You shoulder your bow and draw a hand weapon as the wave of brigands come thundering down upon you. The leader flashes past, his sword blade whistling inches from your scalp, but he does not get very far. You turn in the saddle and strike like lightning, splitting his helmet and his skull with a single mighty blow. He falls before his men, but they prove to be hardy rogues and they press home their attack regardless.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Eldenoran brigands</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect182">You may evade this combat after four rounds, by <link-text>turning to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you win this fight, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush to the brigand<ch.apos/>s side and wrench he dagger from his chest. The wound is deep and you sense that it has penetrated his heart; he has only seconds to live. Calling upon your advanced healing skills, you cause he torn tissues of his heart wall to knit together sufficiently enough to stem the bleeding.</p>
- <p><quote>How do you know my name?</quote> you demand. <quote>Who sent you here? What is your purpose?</quote></p>
- <p>The brigand tries to smile through his pain and a trickle of crimson blood runs from the corner of his mouth.</p>
- <p><quote>You<ch.ellips/> you are the reason I<ch.apos/>m here,</quote> he whispers, <quote>I came here looking to finish you. I am finished now<ch.ellips/> Lutha will not be pleased.</quote></p>
- <p>Then a fit of coughing reopens his punctured heart. With a final gurgling gasp, he expires in your arms. You get to your feet and look around at the devastation he and his men have brought to the sleepy village of Pinepeaks. Leaderless, the remaining brigands abandon their loot and flee to the wooded hills to rejoin their confederates, those who attempted to ambush the troop when first you entered this valley. Nathor<ch.apos/>s men have secured the village and they are helping the villagers to fight the fires which are burning in several of the cottages.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126"><link-text>Turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This narrow lane is flanked by hovels and makeshift shelters for the poor of the city. Beggars assail you from all sides, pleading for money with outstretched hands, but there are so many of them that you quickly abandon the idea of making a donation.</p>
- <p>At length, the lane opens into a rubbish-strewn square faced by a shadowy, unsigned building. As you draw nearer, its grey door creaks open and a curly-haired youth beckons you to approach.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, stranger,</quote> he says, in a syrupy voice. <quote>You look lost. Why don<ch.apos/>t you rest here a while. I<ch.apos/>m sure I can help you find your way.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you possess Kai alchemy, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect155">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The owner of this emporium is a grizzled old veteran of many wars. As you enter, you see him and his son busy at a workbench, shaping and flattening squares of rusty iron into poor-quality breastplates. A sign fixed to their bench reads:</p>
- <p>Armour & Weapons<ch.emdash/>we buy we sell</p>
- <p>Swords 2GC 4GC</p>
- <p>Spears 3GC 6GC</p>
- <p>Axes 1GC 2GC</p>
- <p>Daggers 1GC 2GC</p>
- <p>Bows 3GC 6GC</p>
- <p>Arrows 1/2GC 1GC</p>
- <p>Broadswords 3GC 6GC</p>
- <p>Maces 2GC 1GC</p>
- <p>Helmets 3GC 6GC</p>
- <p>Breastplates 3GC 6GC</p>
- <p>Full suits of armour<ch.emdash/>by special arrangement</p>
- <p>If you wish to purchase or sell any of the above weapons for Gold Crowns, remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">To leave this weapons shop, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You reach the city of Vanamor late in the evening, long after the sun has set beyond the western horizon. The guards at the west gate do not, at first, look kindly upon a travel-stained rider of unknown origin, but when you show them the Star of Palmyrion<ch.emdash/>the medal that their leader, the Elector Manatine, awarded you for your victory over the evil druids of Ruel<ch.emdash/>their cold attitude undergoes a dramatic change. The guard sergeant apologizes profusely and escorts you personally through the capital<ch.apos/>s streets, past a well-ordered collection of dwellings and public buildings, to a grand palatial edifice in the city<ch.apos/>s northern quarter. It is the Elector<ch.apos/>s Hall<ch.emdash/>the seat of the Palmyrion republic.</p>
- <p>Trumpets announce your arrival as you stride through the hall<ch.apos/>s great arched doors. Senators and officials stop momentarily to stare, then their attentions return to their affairs of state which strike you as unusually urgent. It is almost midnight, yet the Elector<ch.apos/>s Hall is a buzzing hive of activity. You meet with Elector Manatine in his War Room where he and his generals are pouring over maps and battle reports. He welcomes you with a warm handshake but his countenance seems unusually dour and agitated. You are soon to learn why.</p>
- <choice idref="sect121"><link-text>Turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw and fire an arrow in the blink of an eye. The shaft whistles through the trees and hits the war-dog squarely between its hideously yellow eyes. For a few seconds it continues to bound forward, then its front legs collapse beneath its weight and it crashes, nose-first, into the soft forest earth.</p>
- <p>Swiftly you shoulder your bow and run headlong into the trees, desperate to make use of what little time you have gained by slaying the pack leader.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 2 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the cell and return to the State Hall where Lord Constable Nathor reports what has happened to the Queen. Concerned for your safety, she suggests that you spend the night at the Royal Citadel as her guest. You accept her gracious invitation and enjoy a fine feast and the hospitality of her court. Then, shortly after dawn of the following day, you bid her majesty, and your companion<ch.emdash/>Lord Ardan<ch.emdash/>a fond farewell before beginning the next stage of your long journey home.</p>
- <p>Mindful of the dangers, the Queen gives her Lord Constable a Royal Seal and places him, along with a troop of ten court cavalrymen, at your disposal. Lord Nathor and his men are to act as your guides and bodyguards on the road to Vanamor, the capital city of neighbouring Palmyrion. This republic is closely allied to Talestria and lies along its eastern border. Palmyrion also has close ties with your homeland and you look forward to the chance of renewing your friendship with its leader, Elector Manatine.</p>
- <p>Mounted on fine Talestrian steeds, your party leaves the walled city of Garthen by its East Gate and sets off towards the outlying village of Sharr. Here you cross the mighty River Phoen by way of a great stone bridge. On the far side of this bridge you notice a signpost which points to the east. It reads: VANAMOR 280 miles.</p>
- <choice idref="sect210"><link-text>Turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It is near midnight when you arrive at a ridge which commands a view of the mighty River Storn. Moonlight pours molten silver over the rushing water, illuminating a ford where a crossing can be made over this unusually deep and fast-flowing river. To the far horizon stretch the plains of Slovia, peaceful and inviting. You long to be on the other side, but you suspect that crossing here, despite the ford, will not be an easy task. Heavily fortified border posts stand at the approaches to the ford, and many keen-eyed sentries are scanning the surrounding countryside on both sides of the river. The Eldenorans are watching for deserters attempting to flee to the safety of Slovia, a neutral territory in the war against Palmyrion; the Slovians keep watch for signs of an Eldenoran attack. It would not be the first time an invasion by their hostile neighbour had come this way.</p>
- <p>Patiently you observe the ford for more than an hour, trying to determine the optimum time to make your move, but then suddenly the choice is taken out of your hands. In the middle distance you see an Eldenoran patrol riding towards the ridge. Unless you abandon the ridge at once, they will be sure to see you and raise an alarm.</p>
- <p>Taking your courage in both hands, you spur your horse to the gallop and rush headlong down the rocky slope that leads directly to the ford.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2. And if you possess Kai alchemy, add 1</p>
- <choice idref="sect218">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect87">If it is 3<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect119">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Gradually the wounded dragon yields his ground. He twists his head violently back and forth, as if he is trying to cast away the pain, then slowly he turns his back on you and lumbers towards his herd.</p>
- <p>You seize this opportunity to make a dash for the Shadow Gate. However, the wraith-like manifestation of Naar senses your intention and sends his lavas swooping down to block your path. Hurriedly they form up in a line at the entrance to the Gate, forcing you to fight or retreat. Knowing that they block your only means of escaping from this nightmare realm, you draw your weapon and hurl yourself against them in a frenzied attempt to break through their line.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Lavas</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect145">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tip of the swirling vortex connects with your chest and, in a moment of terrifying agony, you are lifted into the air and hurled against the wall: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (only 6 if you possess the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-screen).</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you are still alive and you possess Grand Nexus, and have reached the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If you are still alive and you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect346">
- <meta><title>346</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of the winged horrors comes crashing to the ground, slain by your deadly blows, you take off at a run towards the trees. You rush headlong into the forest and glance overhead to make doubly sure that you are not being tracked by more of the winged lavas. The darkening sky is clear of the enemy and confidently you press on through the trees, sure in your ability to remain undetected now that you are in your natural environment of the forest.</p>
- <p>Soon you reach the clearing and hurry to a boulder which bears the imprint of a human hand. You place your right hand upon it and the imprint fits around it like a glove. Silently a hinged stone slab rises up from the ground revealing a stair that leads down into a brick-lined passageway. You enter and hurry along this familiar tunnel, covering a mile before you come to a door that opens automatically at your approach. Beyond lies the Vault of the Sun, your personal stronghold. It radiates a warmly golden light: the rays of the Lorestones of Nyxator. Once safely inside your underground lair, you pause to allow the radiant light of the Lorestones to wash over your tired and aching limbs and, within the space of a few heartbeats, the fatigue of your long journey home is melted away (restore all lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>Revived and revitalized, you throw open the door to the vault and see a young Kai Master standing guard at the foot of the tower stairwell. He is Sabre Fox, one of your most gifted students.</p>
- <p><quote>Gr<ch.ellips/> Grand Master!</quote> he stammers, hardly daring to believe his eyes, <quote>you have returned. Praise the Gods!<ch.emdash/>Our prayers have been answered!</quote></p>
- <p>You smile at the young Kai Master who now has tears of joy in his steel-grey eyes.</p>
- <p><quote>Yes, Sabre Fox,</quote> you reply, <quote>I have returned. Now let us vanquish this foe and rid our land of their evil shadows.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect180"><link-text>Turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect347">
- <meta><title>347</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You fight with the devastating speed and skill that only a Kai Grand Master possesses. Despite the overwhelming odds against you, you succeed in defeating every last one of these vicious hounds. As the last one falls to your blows, you urge your horse away from the coppice and set off along the dyer track to Scade.</p>
- <p>On returning to the Lucky Bucket inn, you break the news of your encounter at Castle Tranius to the remaining five troopers. It comes as a shock, both to them and to the innkeeper, who fears or the safety of the real Knight Tranius.</p>
- <p><quote>I haven<ch.apos/>t seen him in the town for near-on a week,</quote> he says, anxiously rubbing his many chins. <quote>We <ch.apos/>ere had no inkling that somethin<ch.apos/> bad was happenin<ch.apos/> up there at the castle. It<ch.apos/>s right put the shakes up me, I can tell you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect246"><link-text>Turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect348">
- <meta><title>348</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Immediately you recognize the kindly face of Gwynian the Sage.</p>
- <p><quote>Fate calls us together once more, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says. <quote>Come, we have much to discuss.</quote></p>
- <p>And with that he ushers you through the archway into an adjoining chamber, where floating bulbs of light illuminate a stone table covered with charts and scrolls.</p>
- <p><quote>What news have you of Sommerlund?</quote> you ask, anxiously.</p>
- <p><quote>Grave news,</quote> replies Gwynian, with an ominous tone. He picks up a chart from the table and traces a finger across the intricate lines and calculations that embellish its ancient yellowed surface.</p>
- <p><quote>The Dark God Naar has opened a Shadow Gate in the Durncrag mountains, a corridor between our world and his. By means of this corridor he has sent a host of winged creatures<ch.emdash/>the Lavas<ch.emdash/>to assail your monastery. It is his plan to destroy the young order of Kai warriors while you are not able to lead them. The Shadow Gate opened at the time of the last full moon and, since then, the Kai Monastery has been attacked many times. Naar<ch.apos/>s servants have your stronghold encircled and cut off from the armies of King Ulnar, who has repeatedly sought to break the siege. Your Kai have withstood the attacks well, Lone Wolf, but they are weakening. Only you can save them now.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>But how?</quote> you ask, shaken by Gwynian<ch.apos/>s account of the events which have occurred during your absence from the monastery. <quote>If the armies of King Ulnar are powerless to break the siege, how can I hope to save my brethren?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Do not despair, Lone Wolf,</quote> replies Gwynian, reassuringly. <quote>All is not yet lost. You can save your brave order by closing the gate through which Naar sends his Lavas minions.</quote></p>
- <p>You are about to ask how you could possibly achieve this, how you could close the Shadow Gate, but your urgent question is forestalled when Gwynian raises his hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Patience for just a moment, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says, and he allows himself a smile. <quote>I, humble Gwynian, possess the means by which you can thwart the Dark God<ch.apos/>s murderous plan.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect349">
- <meta><title>349</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave the wood and make your way across open fields to a farm at the edge of the town. Here, among the outbuildings of this deserted property, you make a shocking discovery. The burnt remains of men, women, and children are heaped in small mounds all over the farmyard. Open trenches, containing fire-blackened bones and skulls, have been dug in lines behind the farm house, and cattle carcasses fill the ditches which border the muddy road into the town. You detect no life at all, not even a bird or lowly farm animal wonders freely here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect23">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 23</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is a blinding flash as the Sun-Crystal passes through the Shadow Gate, and a deafening implosion follows which sucks a whirlwind of air and loose rock into its whirling core. For a few moments you hear a terrible, far-off scream: it is the lonely cry of Naar himself, lamenting the destruction of his dragon herd, which, by your action, you have consigned to oblivion. The vortex continues to whirl but it is growing smaller as its collapsing power fades it shrinks and shrinks until, with a final Crack!, it disappears completely.</p>
- <p>You return to the monastery where, upon your arrival at the north gate, you are treated to the loud and joyous applause of the young Kai warriors. Banedon and Rimoah praise and congratulate you for your victory over the minions of Naar; it is a victory that will long be remembered in the history of Sommerlund and the legends of the Kai.</p>
- <p>Congratulations, Grand Master Lone Wolf. Once again you have triumphed over the evil forces of the Dark God. You are truly a brave and exceptional warrior. Yet the fight against Evil has still to be won. A new and chilling manifestation of this Evil will soon appear in your world, and it is an Evil that will test your skills to the limit. The nature of this challenge awaits you in the next Grand Master adventure, which is entitled:</p>
- <p>WOLF<ch.apos/>S BANE</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta></meta>
-
- <data>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref class="html" idref="acstats" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acdscplz" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acitems" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acbckpck" />
- <illref class="html" idref="acspcl" />
- <illref idref="ac1" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="ac2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="ac3" class="html"/>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref idref="crtneg" class="html" />
- <illref idref="crtneg" class="tex" />
- <illref idref="crtpos" class="html" />
- <illref idref="crtpos" class="tex" />
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illref idref="rnt" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="rnt" class="tex"/>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <illustrations>
-
- <illgroup idref="action" class="visible">
- <illustration id="acstats" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acdscplz" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="234" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acitems" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acbckpck" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="acspcl" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="ac1" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="ac2" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="ac3" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
-
- <illgroup idref="crtable" class="hidden">
- <illustration id="crtneg" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration id="crtpos" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
-
- <illgroup class="hidden">
- <illustration id="rnt" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
- </illustrations>
-
- <data/>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <illustrations>
-
- </illustrations>
- <data/>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
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-Revision 1.4 2006/12/08 20:51:24 jonathan.blake
-Making it validate and tidying the indentation
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-Revision 1.3 2006/12/07 01:41:54 jonathan.blake
-Simon's updates
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-Revision 1.2 2006/07/31 15:12:39 cvsuser
-basic markup; line-break hyphenations fixed in tssf
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-Revision 1.1 2004/11/09 06:47:16 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
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-Revision 1.2 2006/07/31 jffdougan
-basic markup; line-break hyphenations fixed in tssf
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-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/21 19:27:04 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
-Suggestions for Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, sections 141-210:
-
-150: Capitalize the p in psi-screen (2nd paragraph, 1st sentence).
-171: Maybe add <ch.apos/>or have not reached this level of Kai mastery<ch.apos/> to the second choice, just to make it a little clearer what to do if the player has Kai-alchemy but isn<ch.apos/>t a Sun Knight or higher.
-177: Contains a non-numbered illustration that MUST be included as part of a puzzle.
-178: Change <ch.apos/>flys<ch.apos/> to <ch.apos/>flies<ch.apos/> (1st paragraph, 2nd sentence).
-218: Change <ch.apos/>lost 3 ENDURANCE points<ch.apos/> to <ch.apos/>lose 3 ENDURANCE points<ch.apos/> (2nd sentence, 1st paragraph)
-226: Capitalize <ch.apos/>curing<ch.apos/> and <ch.apos/>animal control<ch.apos/> (1st sentence, 1st paragraph)
-252: Contains a small illustration that must be included because it is an essential part of a puzzle.Suggestions for Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, sections 281-350
-
-347: Change <ch.apos/>divination<ch.apos/> in the first sentence to <ch.apos/>Divination<ch.apos/>, as it is referring to the Magnakai Discipline.
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2006</year><month>6</month><day>8</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- [Insert blurb here]
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright <ch.copy/> [Insert year] Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> [Insert year] Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright <ch.copy/> Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright <ch.copy/> Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p class="dedication">[Insert Dedication]</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.<ch.ellips/></quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br/>Jeff Dougan</dd>
- <dt><a idref="action">Action Chart</a>s</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd></dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd><br/></dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far<ch.ellips/></title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, the sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of the Kai<ch.emdash/>the warrior elite of Sommerlund.</p>
-
- <p>It is the year MS 5080, thirty years since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar<ch.emdash/>the King of the darkness<ch.emdash/>to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund, have them-selves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain<ch.emdash/>the Darklands<ch.emdash/> and caused the destruction of their leader and the base of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
-
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who had been poised to conquer all of Magnamund. This disorder escalated into a mutinous civil war, which allowed the freestate armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Against the odds, a swift and total victory was secured over the feuding Darklands armies.</p>
-
- <p>For ten unbroken years peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction, the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a New Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well established. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possess strong latent Kai skills and all show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
-
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai (which were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to) was truly a revelation. Your discovery, has inspired you to search for the wisdom and power that no Kai lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection<ch.emdash/>to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai monastery and the training of the New Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded and, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose readily to their new-found responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
-
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the monastery, one hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator<ch.emdash/>gems of Kai power which you had recovered during your quest for Kai knowledge. In this vault, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors<ch.emdash/>Banedon and Rimoah<ch.emdash/>you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master disciplines, and grasp the fundamental secrets of Brotherhood and Old Kingdom Magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body; you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
-
- <p>In the years since your victory over the Darklords, peace has reigned victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms have rejoiced in the knowledge that the evil which once threatened to destroy them has been banished from the face of Magnamund. Men have readily exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still some who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of the Dark God Naar come in many guises and there are those upon Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
-
- <p>Already your new-found skills have been tested against Naar<ch.apos/>s agents and you have, on each occasion, acquitted yourself admirably. Yet your continuing victories have enraged the Dark God and inflamed his lust for vengeance. Three years earlier, you and your new Kai kinsmen achieved a glorious victory over a host of deadly Lavas. These dragon-like horrors were sent by Naar to destroy the Kai Monastery and lay waste to Sommerlund, and yet, despite their supernatural strength, they were defeated in battle by the sheer courage and skill of the New Order Kai who fought magnificently under your leadership.</p>
-
- <p>After the ignominious defeat of his minions, Naar retreated to the Plane of Darkness to plot and scheme anew. Victory at the monastery had won for you a respite in the Dark God<ch.apos/>s war against Sommerlund and the Kai. The following three years were peaceful for your homeland, yet elsewhere on Magnamund the agents of Naar continued their insidious work. On several occasions your special skills were sought by envoys from foreign realms whose leaders were desperate to rid themselves of Naar<ch.apos/>s minions. Courageously you undertook many of these dangerous missions and,by succeeding where no other mortal could, you brought fresh glories upon yourself and your fellow Kai.</p>
-
- <p>In the summer of MS 5080, during a return voyage by sea from a successful quest to distant Dessi, an act of sabotage very nearly wrecked the sailing ship that was transporting you home. Only fair weather and skilful repairs by the Sommlending crew saved the ship from being lost in the Gulf of Durenor. When the damaged craft limped into its home port of Anskaven, more than two weeks late, the reception you received was far from welcoming. The normally cheerful seafaring folk of this busy port were in a strangely sullen mood. Clearly they all recognized you, yet none cheered as you disembarked on Anskaven quay. The crowd were quietly hostile. Before you could determine their reasons, the uneasy silence was shattered by a troop of heavily-armoured cavalrymen who came galloping along the quayside, their gleaming swords drawn. The crowd scattered as the horsemen drew up in a circle around you. Their leader, a nervous young lieutenant whose coat bore the black eagle and three hearts motif of Avan Caldar, Baron of Anskaven, curtly ordered you to lay down your weapons. Not wishing to provoke these city troopers, you obeyed the command and allowed them to escort you to Baron Caldar<ch.apos/>s castle where you felt sure their inglorious mistake would be swiftly punished.</p>
-
- <p>Baron Caldar formally received you in the Great Hall of his castle. You had met previously on many state occasions at King Ulnar<ch.apos/>s court in Holmgard and had always held each other in high esteem. Yet Caldar, flanked by more than a dozen armed bodyguards, could barely bring himself to conceal his contempt. He spoke to you as if you were a hated criminal. You asked why you were being treated in such a manner, but your pleas fell on deaf ears. Without further explanation, he ordered that you be taken immediately to the dungeons and placed in irons.</p>
-
- <p>Later that evening, using your mental Kai Disciplines to help loosen the tight-lipped resolve of a dungeon guard, you learned the reasons for your apparent fall from grace.</p>
-
- <p><quote>You first arrived in Anskaven by ship eighteen days ago, as expected,</quote> said the gaoler, in response to your psychic commands. <quote>Baron Caldar met you personally at the quayside and gave you a horse and six of his best troopers to escort you to Toran. During your ride to that city, they say you murdered his men and burnt their bodies. On arriving at Toran, you tried to assassinate Banedon<ch.emdash/>the Guildmaster of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. He survived, yet much of the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s Hall was destroyed by your doing. To cover your escape from the city, you poisoned the wells causing hundreds of deaths. At first it was said that a Helghast had adopted your likeness to gain entry to the Guildhall, but Guildmaster Banedon refuted these claims. He is convinced that you are possessed by the spirit of Naar. The Guildmaster dispatched the Toran militia to spread this message across Sommerlund. A few days later at the forest village of Durnfallow, near Tyso, the Fryearl of Durnfallow was murdered and his manor house was torched to the ground. The villagers say they saw you riding away from the blazing ruins, howling like a crazed wolf. The people are terrified by the thought that Naar has corrupted you<ch.emdash/>their greatest hero<ch.emdash/>and turned you against your own. They are scared and they are demanding swift justice. King Ulnar has bowed to their will; he has sent all of his Border Rangers to Tyso with orders to find and kill you on sight.</quote></p>
-
- <p>The news of your alleged crimes comes as a bitter blow. You are sure that it is all the handiwork of an agent of Naar, and you resolve to find and vanquish this impostor at the first opportunity. However, as you cast your eyes around the damp walls of the castle dungeon, you can only pray to Ishir and Kai that the Baron and his guards will believe your story and allow you a chance to reclaim your honour.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list now includes the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in this book after being omitted beginning in <bookref book="14tcok" section="gamerulz">The Captives of Kaag</bookref>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the previous books and retrieve them at the outset of this adventure.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For more than six years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ><ch.emdash/>and physical stamina<ch.emdash/><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1<ch.endash/>18), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 17. These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses obtained upon completion of Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1<ch.endash/>5) or Magnakai (Books 6<ch.endash/>12) adventures.<footref id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot"/> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over from the Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1<ch.endash/>5) and Magnakai (Books 6<ch.endash/>12) series to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Books 13<ch.endash/>onwards):<footref id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Silver Bracers</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Korlinium Scabbard</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6<ch.endash/>12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender<ch.ellips/> means you are skilled in two<ch.ellips/> weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13<ch.endash/>20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. For example, if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature<ch.apos/>s sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell, and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the <!--ERRTAG-RE-27110-->Gods Kai and Ishir<!--/ERRTAG-RE-27110--> go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<footref id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot"/></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack<ch.emdash/>Mindblast<ch.emdash/>they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title><!--ERRTAG-RE-33045-->Magi-magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-33045--></title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros<ch.emdash/>the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and <!--ERRTAG-RE-34720-->artefacts<!--/ERRTAG-RE-34720-->.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in Book 19 of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your Action Chart in Book 20. For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic COMBAT SKILL score and 2 points to your basic ENDURANCE points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline(s), your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called: <bookref book="20tcon"><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>.</bookref></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off on your long journey home to Sommerlund you took with you a <a idref="map">map of Northern Magnamund</a> (see the inside front cover of this book) and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1<ch.endash/>18), you may add this sum to the total sum of crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you can carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safe-keeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take four items from, the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Broadsword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six arrows; record them on your <a idref="action">Weapons List</a>.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>2 MEALS Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>ROPE (Backpack tern)</p></li>
- <li><p>POTION OF LAUMSPUR (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p></li>
- <li><p>AXE (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the four items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect that may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a <!--ERRTAG-RA-39864-->Quiver<!--/ERRTAG-RA-39864--> and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals <!--ERRTAG-RE-40946-->(e.g. Gold Dagger<!--/ERRTAG-RE-40946-->, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf<ch.apos/>s and the enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35<ch.minus/>30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection<ch.emdash/>to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender<ch.emdash/><em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="imprvdsc-1-foot" idref="imprvdsc-1">
- <p>The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery, you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian<ch.apos/>s bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes the tip of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this Discipline are able to wield two-handed weapons (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, and Spear) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature<ch.apos/>s body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Discipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following <!--ERRTAG-RE-53768-->Brotherhood Spells<!--/ERRTAG-RE-53768-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Halt Missile</spell><ch.emdash/>This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. arrows, axes, crossbow bolts, etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2<ch.endash/>3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Strength</spell><ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.<footref id="imprvdsc-1" idref="imprvdsc-1-foot"/></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunlord">
- <meta><title>Sun Lord</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Lord (7 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, <!--ERRTAG-RE-58448-->i.e. they<!--/ERRTAG-RE-58448--> can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-blast<ch.emdash/>a pulse of intense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in one attack. [A Kai Sun Lord using Kai-blast determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a <quote>0</quote> = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted.] However, use of a Kai-blast will reduce a Sun Lord<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surface, e.g. water, mud, lava and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt><!--ERRTAG-RE-57185-->Magi-magic<!--/ERRTAG-RE-57185--></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Penetrate</spell><ch.emdash/>This increases the penetrative energy of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</li>
- <li><spell>Energy Grasp</spell><ch.emdash/>This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the <!--ERRTAG-RE-58099-->Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell><!--/ERRTAG-RE-58099-->, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunthane">
- <meta><title>Sun Thane</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Thane (8 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes with this Discipline are able to command an animal to fall asleep at will. Some hostile animals may be able to resist this command, but most will be affected by it in some way. The duration of effect and the number of animals which can be affected at one time will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this skill are able to conduct a Kai Exorcism. This ritual will banish any evil supernatural force that has taken possession of any goodly creature or object.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Thanes with this skill are able to protect themselves from the effects of being struck by natural electrical discharges, <!--ERRTAG-RE-59140-->i.e. lightning<!--/ERRTAG-RE-59140-->.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to alter the temperature of water by touch. By using this skill they are able to transform water into ice and vice versa. The volume of water affected, and the duration of effect, both increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to erect a special psychic defence called <spell>Mindfort</spell>. A <spell>Mindfort</spell> defence greatly reduces the effects of any psychic shock that would normally paralyse or weaken a lesser mortal.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Thane are able to use the following <!--ERRTAG-RE-60406-->Brotherhood Spells<!--/ERRTAG-RE-60406-->:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Slow Fall</spell><ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, Kai Sun Thanes are able to slow their rate of free-falling to three feet per second, thereby avoiding damage upon landing while the spell is in effect. The duration of the spell is limited at first, but it steadily increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Breathe Water</spell><ch.emdash/>Using this spell, a Kai Sun Thane is able to breathe underwater for ten minutes. The duration of effect increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="grandthane">
- <meta><title>Grand Thane</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Kai Grand Master who has reached the rank of Grand Thane (9 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes with this Discipline are able to call upon the God Kai for divine assistance should a situation warrant it. Kai cannot intervene to save a Grand Thane from physical danger, but he can give signs which may help a Grand Thane chose the best course of action. A Grand Thane can call upon the God Kai for assistance no more than once every month. The frequency of divine audiences will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess this skill are able to protect themselves from detection by creatures using infravision (the ability to see the heat radiating from a person or thing), or ultra-vision (the ability to detect objects or movement in the ultra-violet spectrum of light).</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes with this skill are able to focus their mind-power upon inanimate breakable objects, eg, bottles, windows, all ceramics, urns, jugs etc, and cause them to explode violently. Any person or creature in close proximity to such an explosion risks injury from flying shrapnel.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline can pass freely through the Shadow Gates. These phenomena are special portals which enable one to access other dimensions and planes of existence outside of Magnamund. Kai Grand Thanes are able to detect the location of Shadow Gates and pass through them without suffering any physical ill effects. The range of their detection increases as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to detect the exact location of precious gems, and valuable metals such as gold, platinum and silver. These minerals and metals may occur naturally in the ground or they could be part of a hidden treasure hoard. The range of this ability is limited at first, but increases steadily as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Thane are able to use the following Old Kingdom battle-spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Power Glyph</spell><ch.emdash/>By inscribing this ancient glyph (a secret magical symbol) upon a door, an archway, or even upon the lid of a closed box, a Kai Grand Thane is able to protect items or portals from being opened. Any creature attempting to open a portal protected in such a way will release the power of the glyph and suffer its deadly effects.</li>
- <li><spell>Hold Enemy</spell><ch.emdash/>Using this spell, a Kai Grand Thane is able to immobilize a single hostile creature anywhere within twenty feet of themselves. The duration of the spell is dependent upon the size and strength of the targetted creature. The range and duration of effect of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="grandcrown">
- <meta><title>Grand Crown</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Grand Crown, you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines: </p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Crowns with this discipline are consummate masters of unarmed combat. When fighting bare-handed ie, without any weapons, they may add 3 points to their COMBAT SKILL.</p></dd>
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns with this ability are able to plant in the mind of any animal the image of their most-feared predator or adversary. Under the influence of this illusion the animal will believe, with all of its senses, that it is being confronted by such a creature instead of a Kai Grand Crown.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns with this skill are able to create a clear passageway through dense undergrowth, forest, or jungle. Once having passed through this passageway, the plant material will revert to its normal state. This skill can also be employed by a Kai Grand Crown against magical foliage, or to counter any plant material ranged against him by an enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to mask the goodly aura which radiates naturally from their minds and bodies. Additionally, Grand Crowns can deliberately alter these auras to give a false impression of themselves to creatures who are sensitive to such psychic auras.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns who possess this Discipline are able to speak a Kai Power Word<ch.emdash/>a holy utterance which will cause physical and psychic damage to any single creature within a radius of thirty feet. The degree of damage so caused, and the resultant drain upon a Grand Crown<ch.apos/>s reserves of ENDURANCE, are dependent upon individual circumstances. The power and range of this skill increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Crown are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Teleport<ch.emdash/>By casting this spell, Kai Grand Crowns can transport themselves physically to any place which they can see with their own eyes. The spell will carry the caster, his equipment and clothing to his chosen sighted destination. It cannot be used on any other living creature and it will not transport any other living creature along with the caster. Use of this spell will cost the caster between 1 and 5 ENDURANCE points every time it is used. This cost reduces as a Kai Grand Master increases in rank.</li>
- <li>See Illusion<ch.emdash/>Using this spell, a Kai Grand Crown is able to detect an illusion and know immediately its true identity or purpose.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the <ch.apos/>Improved Grand Master Disciplines<ch.apos/> section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master<ch.apos/>s Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are about to face an adversary who possesses skills and abilities commensurate with your own. Even though you have returned to Sommerlund, the land of your birth, you should remain wary and on guard at all times. Your enemy is cunning and ruthless; you can expect no quarter from him whatsoever.</p>
- <p>Some of the things you will encounter during your adventure will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all. If you discover items, be selective in what you choose to keep.</p>
- <p>Pick your four Grand Master Disciplines with care for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the quest, no matter how weak their initial COMBAT SKILL and ENDURANCE scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you strive to defeat the agents of Naar.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The jangle of keys and the metallic squeal of a rusty iron drawbolt makes your pulse quicken. Moments later, the heavy dungeon door creaks open and two imperious figures step with caution into the dingy cell. They are protected by a dome of radiant magical energy, yet you can see enough of their features through this shimmering force-field to recognize them to be Baron Calder and Guildmaster Banedon.</p>
- <p><quote>Well met, old friend!</quote> you call out, but Banedon does not return your greeting. His countenance is one of fearful suspicion. Clearly he and the Baron suspect you are the evil impostor who has wrought havoc across Sommerlund.</p>
- <p><quote>Come now, Banedon. Truly, it is I<ch.emdash/>Lone Wolf. Won<ch.apos/>t you release me from these shackles?</quote></p>
- <p>Banedon takes hold of a crystal pendant that hangs from a chain around his neck and a wave of strong psychic energy washes over you. The sensation is. deeply unpleasant, but you resist the urge to use repel it. Instead, you allow this mental probe to access the recesses of your mind and gradually Banedon<ch.apos/>s grim expression is replaced by a smile. He nods approvingly and, in an instant, the magical barrier which protects the two men blinks out of existence.</p>
- <choice idref="sect302">If you possess a Platinum Amulet, turn to 195. If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 302</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the stinking water and dive beneath the surface. But moments later you are struck forcefully in the side by the tip of the creature<ch.apos/>s tail, lifted into the air, and dashed against the rough earth wall of the cavern: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Coughing and gasping for breath, you find your feet and claw the muck from your eyes just in time to see the serpent<ch.apos/>s tail swishing back towards your chest. Instinctively you throw yourself against the wall and the deadly barbed tail misses you by inches. As it sweeps past, you draw your weapon in readiness to strike out at it the moment it come within range.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ukara (chained)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This serpent is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your divine blade from its scabbard and a halo of golden light irradiates the throne hall. Naar bellows with a terrible rage. He is mortally aghast that such a holy weapon should be unsheathed in his inner sanctum, and in his rage he summons yet a further horde of Crypt Spawn to attack and overwhelm you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Spawn hordes</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">55</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you concentrate upon a small area of the plant wall and will the fibres to loosen and tear. The wall is remarkably resilient, and you expend a great deal of energy before the tough fibres weaken and bend to your will: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Eventually you are able to create a large enough hole in the stem through which you can make your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow decapitates the head of this mechanical beast, sending it bouncing across the chamber. Fountains of fiery sparks shoot from its severed neck and its torso cracks and crumples in on itself. Within seconds, the body is transformed into a glowing mound of steel slag.</p>
- <p>Warily you approach the creature<ch.apos/>s head and prod it with the tip of your weapon. When you are sure that it is safe, you examine it more closely and discover a curious disc of iron wedged in a crease in the back of its skull. Guided by instinct, you take this disc and insert it into the wall. Moments later, the door opens with a hiss of escaping air.</p>
- <p>If you wish to retrieve the Iron Disc before you pass through the door, record it on your Action Chart as a Special Item which you carry in the pocket of your tunic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">To continue, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself to the ground and the beam of blazing white light passes within inches of your head, close enough to scorch the hood of your cloak. The moment you hit the warehouse floor you roll over and over and scramble for the nearest cover<ch.emdash/>a heavy iron chest, banded and riveted with steel. The warrior follows your swift movement and looses a second beam from his spear which slams into the iron chest with stunning force. You gasp with horror as you see the side of the chest bulging towards your face. Its thick rivets tremble and its age-blackened skin smoulders with a sullen heat. Instinct takes over, making you roll away from the iron chest and seek cover elsewhere. As you move, the beam of light tears through the rear of the iron box and destroys the ground where, only moments before, your face had been.</p>
- <p>You call upon all of your camouflage skills to mask your body as you hurriedly seek a way to escape from this warrior and his sorcerous weapon. You reach the base of a large steel tank and scramble up a ladder fixed to its side. The top of the tank is stacked high with coiled ropes and you force yourself in amongst them. A few moments later you watch the warrior approach the smouldering remains of the iron chest. He is close enough now for you to see that his weapon is attached by length of steel cable to a canister strapped to his back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you possess a Bow and the Discipline of Magi magic, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess a Bow or this skill, or if you have yet to attain the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
-
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by a circle of blazing beacons, Javano the pilot lands the skyship expertly in the middle of a paved training park located within the castle<ch.apos/>s expansive grounds. In Tyso a curfew is in force, and the only figures lawfully abroad this night are Baron Medar<ch.apos/>s guardsmen whose numbers have been doubled by a regiment of Border Rangers recently arrived from Holmgard. Banedon suggests that you stay on board until he has informed Baron Medar of the true situation.</p>
- <p><quote>The guards of Tyso are under orders to kill you on sight,</quote> he says, as he gets ready to disembark. <quote>It would not be wise to show yourself, Grand Master, until I have explained all to the Baron.</quote></p>
- <p>You remain in his quarters while Banedon seeks an audience with Baron Medar. Shortly he returns with the Baron who, upon entering the cabin, greets you warmly like a father welcoming home a favourite son.</p>
- <p><quote>You will always be welcome here, Lone Wolf,</quote> he says clasping your hand in friendship. <quote>I knew in my heart that you were innocent of these crimes which have so shocked our people. You may rely on me to help you find this impostor who has sought to harm us and bring dishonour upon your good name.</quote></p>
- <p>You thank the Baron for his support and his pledge of loyalty, and you tell him how pleased you are to be in Tyso after the months you have spent abroad.</p>
- <p><quote>Then come, my lord, let<ch.apos/>s adjourn to my hall where you may enjoy the hospitality of my court,</quote> he says, and turns to leave the cabin. As he reaches the door he says: <quote>Oh, and by the way, there are some men waiting there who, I<ch.apos/>m sure, will be most pleased to meet with you.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect238"><link-text>Turn to 238</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow hits your forehead, yet fortunately at an angle. It carves a gash across the top of your head and removes a deep furrow of skin and hair as it glances off your skull bone: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Biting back the pain, you clasp both hands to your scalp and muster your healing skills to staunch the heavy flow of blood. As you stagger to your feet, you look to the jungle and pinpoint the place where the arrow emerged. When you magnify your vision you see the face of your enemy<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>partially hidden by a tree. He is laughing, his teeth showing white against the deep green of the jungle. He mouths a curse and then he springs to his feet and disappears into the undergrowth.</p>
- <p>Determined that you are not going to allow him to escape so easily, you break into a run and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow punctures the beast<ch.apos/>s single lung and heart, sending it swiftly to the bottom of the flooded cellar. You sheathe your weapon and strike out for the surface where, upon clambering onto the steps, you pause for a few moments to regain your composure. As you recover, you note that one of your Backpack Items is missing, lost during your underwater combat with the Ekmakon. (Erase from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> the item which you have recorded at the top of your list of Backpack Items.)</p>
- <p>Eager to continue your pursuit, you climb the steps and emerge through a trapdoor into the rubble-heaped city ruins. There is no sign of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, but when you hurry to where you saw him last, you discover a flight of steps leading down into a wide underground passage. His tracks can be seen clearly imbedded in the muddy floor of this tunnel.</p>
- <p>The tunnel passes under a street and then surfaces in front of a grand two-storey building, once a busy warehouse that stored braided coils of fine copper cable. You avoid the main entrance in case your adversary is lying in ambush there, and enter instead by way of a flight of iron steps that lead to a second floor window. The moment you set foot inside the building you sense that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is here. Warily you explore, your nerves stretched to breaking point as your eyes seek out detail in the darkness. You are approaching the west wing of this building when you suddenly catch sight of your opponent through a hole in the floor. He is sitting on his haunches behind a mound of wooden crates, busily eating a green-skinned fruit, and he is unaware that you are watching him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you possess Magi-magic, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane (and wish to use your skill), <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you possess none of these skills, or have yet to reach the required level of Kai rank, or simply choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 20</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The door opens with a hiss. You rush forward and immediately sidestep to place a solid wall between you and the steel monster. Then the door slides shut and, a few moments later, you feel a shudder run through the wall as the creature slams head-first into the portal and shatters its skull.</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">To continue, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the arrows grazes your left shoulder and gouges a furrow of skin from the back of your left thigh. You stifle a cry, but the intense pain that grips your injured limbs warns you at once that the tip of the arrow was tainted with poison.</p>
- <p>Your innate healing skills counter the poison before it can do its deadly work, but your body<ch.apos/>s defences draw heavily on your reserves of strength and the curing process leaves you feeling weak and light-headed: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309">To continue, <link-text>turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Luckily, the acid-spitter was the only one of its kind to be found lurking in this hall, and you are able to reach the door without being spat upon by one of its many brothers. The door itself is unlocked and, without further delay, you pull it open and hurry through into the hall which lies beyond.</p>
- <p>You are hungry and, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220">To continue, <link-text>turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the ground with a numbing jolt and almost lose consciousness. As you lie there, dazed and gasping for breath, you hear the anxious voices of your companions swirling around in your mind. You cannot move but you are able to draw on your Magnakai curing skills to staunch your bleeding wounds. Gradually you feel your strength returning. The young Kai gather around and lift you carefully to your feet. As your vision clears, you see that the doorway to the tomb is now devoid of rubble. You sense that the destructive force of the power-glyph has been discharged, but only temporarily. It is recharging, and you have but a few seconds in which to enter the tomb before the deadly device is fully active once more.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, my lords,</quote> you gasp, as you break free of their grasp and stagger towards the entrance, <quote>follow me!</quote></p>
- <p>They hesitate, fearing you are about to trigger yet another explosion. <quote>Hurry!</quote> you cry, <quote>the trap is spent but its power is fast returning. We must enter now!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your right hand at the onrushing beast. A tingle runs down your arm and a bolt of power bursts from your fingertip. It arcs towards the creature<ch.apos/>s head and there is a splash of hissing sparks as it rips a strip of steel from the creature<ch.apos/>s skull. But the wound is not fatal. The beast shudders under the impact yet it hardly slows its pace, and now there is no time left to launch a second bolt. You only have two seconds remaining in which to unsheathe a hand weapon, as this great metallic horror comes leaping at you through the darkness.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mech-wulf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow clips the top of your right shoulder and rips away a strip of skin: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Wincing at the sharp pain, you clasp your left hand to the wound and use your healing skills to staunch the flow of blood. Then you get to your feet and look to the jungle to pinpoint the place where the arrow emerged. When you magnify your vision you see the face of your enemy<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>partially hidden by a tree. He is laughing, his teeth showing white against the deep green of the jungle. He mouths a curse before springing to his feet and running off into the undergrowth.</p>
- <p>Determined that you are not going to allow him to escape so easily, you rush forward and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You trawl the depths of your psychic defences to construct a fortress wall to protect yourself from this agonizing mental assault. The process drains your reserves of strength (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the effort is not in vain. You feel your vitality returning as you force the pain from your mind.</p>
- <p>This psychic assault has been one of the worst you have ever experienced. You have survived, but your Kai senses tell you that your ordeal has not ended. You force open your eyes and look with dread at the terrible threat that confronts you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon and lash out at the creature<ch.apos/>s ugly maw. You wound the beast but it only serves to make him more angry. With a jerk of his head, he spits a gout of venom which splashes the front of your tunic and rapidly melts through the cloth to attack your skin.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, deduct 2 from the number you have chosen. The resultant score is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose due to the harmful effects of this creature<ch.apos/>s highly corrosive saliva.</p>
- <p>Before the beast can spit at you again, you strike a blow which crushes its windpipe and sends it sinking fast to the bottom of the flooded cellar. Free now to continue your pursuit, you climb the steps to emerge amongst the ruins of the city. There is no sign of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, but when you hurry to where you saw him last, you discover a flight of steps leading down into a wide underground passage. His tracks can be seen clearly imbedded in the muddy floor of this tunnel.</p>
- <p>The tunnel passes under a broad avenue and then surfaces in front of a grand two-storey building. This was once a busy warehouse that stored braided coils of fine copper cable. You avoid the main entrance in case your adversary is lying in ambush there, and enter instead by way of a flight of iron steps that lead to a second floor window. The moment you set foot inside the building you sense that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is here. Warily you explore, your nerves stretched to breaking point as your eyes seek out detail in the darkness. You are approaching the west wing of this building when you suddenly catch sight of your opponent through a hole in the floor. He is sitting on his haunches behind a mound of wooden crates, busily eating a green-skinned fruit, and he is unaware that you are watching him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you possess Magi-magic, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane (and wish to use your skill), <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you possess none of these skills, or have yet to reach the required level of Kai rank, or simply choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the left of the tunnel arch you discover two squares of opaque crimson gemstone separated by a small slot. The squares are similar in size and design to those you encountered at the entrance to the temple of Avaros. These, too, comprise a locking mechanism that controls this portal. By tapping upon each square a correct number of times you will cause the lock to disengage and the portal to rise.</p>
- <p>You place your fingers lightly upon the squares and feel the tell-tale vibrations that are the key to deciphering the secret code. After only seconds you are able to determine that the first code is equal to the number of islands south of the Kirlundin island of Hemd.</p>
- <p>The second code is equal to the number of villages that lie on the highway between the cities of Toran and Anskaven.</p>
- <p>In order to discover the exact numbers that will open the portal, consult the map at the front of this book.</p>
- <p>When you think you know the two-digit solution, turn to the entry that is the same number as your answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect242">If you cannot decipher the codes, <link-text>turn instead to 242</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the Bangrol shrieks in agony as a steel-tipped arrow skewers its skull. The force of the impact sends it cartwheeling through the air to crash limply against the chamber wall. You glance to your left and see a grinning Blazer calmly shouldering his bow.</p>
- <p><quote>Well done, Blazer,</quote> you say, as you sheathe your weapon. <quote>Your bowmanship<ch.apos/>s as keen as ever. Those many hours you<ch.apos/>ve spent in the Monastery butts were not in vain, eh!</quote> The young Kai Master smiles his gratitude for your welcome words of praise.</p>
- <p><quote>Now, my lords, we must press on. We<ch.apos/>ve a trail to find,</quote> you say, and motion your companions to follow as you leave this chamber by a tunnel in its south wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge and focus a pulse of psychic energy at the head of your mortal enemy. The moment you launch your mental attack, you see him physically shudder. Then his body stiffens and his half-eaten fruit drops from his grasp. You have hit your target, but you sense resistance; your adversary has powerful psychic defences with which he can counter your attack.</p>
- <p>You feel a sudden wave of pain wash through you as he repels your mental assault and turns it back on you: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. To your dismay, you watch as Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane leaps to his feet and makes a hasty escape, seemingly uninjured by your mental assault.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you approach the slain warriors. You are eager to examine their strange armour and you are particularly curious about the light-emitting spears they wielded; weapons such as these could prove useful in your fight against Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. However, on examining these steely shafts you discover that they are now useless. The source of their power was contained in the canisters strapped to the warriors<ch.apos/> backs, a power that is now depleted.</p>
- <p>When you pose open a helmet and breastplate, you discover a thin, pale-skinned humanoid within. His bone structure and muscularity is surprisingly weak for a warrior, prompting you to suspect that he must have relied heavily on his power-fed armour for strength and protection. This sallow-faced soldier has a lean and brutal appearance, a look which resembles that of an emaciated Drakkarim.</p>
- <p>After having satisfied yourself that there is nothing worth salvaging from the bodies of these two slain enemies, you make a cursory check of your own equipment. You are hungry, and unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must now eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Having satisfied your curiosity and your appetite, you hurry out of this derelict warehouse by a rear door and continue your hunt for Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s trail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature<ch.apos/>s sharp proboscis misses you by inches. Before it can strike again, you prise yourself out of the cluster and retreat back along the stamen until you are out of harm<ch.apos/>s way. Blindly the giant insect stabs and slashes, splintering stamen tips and drenching you with showers of sticky pollen. Fortunately, the span of its gigantic wings and the narrowness of the plant<ch.apos/>s corolla conspire to prevent it from reaching deeper into the plant, and you are able to escape without injury.</p>
- <p>You retreat all the way down to the bowl of the corolla, from where you began your ascent. Looking around you see that the hollow stem is now the only remaining chance you have of getting out of this plant alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you tap in the second code the portal begins to rise. You wait until it has risen a few feet and you are sure that no enemy awaits you on the other side, then you duck under the heavy iron plate and hurry into the tunnel beyond. As you run, you hear the portal slamming shut behind you with a dull reverberating boom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai camouflage skills keep you hidden from the unwanted attentions of these thirsty creatures, and you reach the stairs without being detected. Once you are here, you ascend to the balcony and hurry through the arch.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">To continue, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly the tip of the creature<ch.apos/>s tail erupts from beneath the water and comes swishing towards your face. Instinctively you dive to avoid being hit and ripped open by the scores of razor-sharp barbs that encircle its tail.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If the number you have picked is 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect169">If it is 8 or more, <link-text>turn to 169</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon your Kai skills to mask your body prior to uttering the words of the advanced Brotherhood spell <spell>Teleport</spell>. You focus on the distant balcony and feel yourself leave the ground and surge towards it. As you come close to passing over the fountain, you pray that your camouflage skills will keep you hidden from the eyes of the creatures gathered there.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 4 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect179">If your total score is 5 or lower, <link-text>turn to 179</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect245">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 245</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the hut and crouch down beside its mud wall, close to its open door. Your senses detect no glyphs or other traps here, and there are no residues of magical energy that might betray the presence of illusions or shielding spells. However, your Kai senses do pick up a strong aura of evil lingering at the rear of the hut, close to the water<ch.apos/>s edge.</p>
- <p>You move around to the rear of this hovel and discover that the bank is deeply undercut where the soft earth has been eroded by the fast-flowing stream. Standing in a line in the shadow of the undercut are a dozen wooden cages, each containing a fleshless skeleton. A shiver runs down your spine as your Magnakai Discipline of Divination detects the lingering agonies of these luckless victims. They suffered cruelly at the hands of the natives of this settlement before death finally ended their torment. The shock of your discovery is unnerving: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>You leave the stream and return to the front of the hut. Inside the open doorway you discover several fruits stacked in mounds on a mat of woven rushes. Somewhat to your surprise, your senses tell you that they are nutritious and safe to eat. (There are sufficient fruits here for 3 Meals.)</p>
- <p>Wary of further delay, you approach the trench at the centre of the hut. Your tracking skills locate your enemy<ch.apos/>s tracks leading down the flight of steps, and quickly you follow them into an underground tunnel. You have gone only a few yards along this narrow passageway when suddenly you hear the terrifying roar of a large cat. With an abruptness that takes your breath away, a huge tiger-like beast comes bounding from out of the darkness ahead. So sudden and unexpected is this creature<ch.apos/>s attack, that you only just have enough time to unsheathe a hand weapon as it hurls itself upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rahjaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe the Sword of the Sun and a shimmering halo of light engulfs the blade. This golden glow washes over the rubble-strewn steps and illuminates something that, until now, had gone unnoticed.</p>
- <p>Lying across the open doorway to the tomb is a slab of granite. Cautiously you move nearer to inspect a strange mark on its surface which is glinting in the light from your sword. You discover that it is an intricate design which has been scratched upon its surface. Someone has gone to the trouble of smearing it with dirt and a magical spell of shielding has been placed upon it to disguise its true purpose, yet you immediately realize what it is and you recoil from the slab, hurriedly retreating a dozen paces. It is a glyph of power: a magical booby trap that has been expertly camouflaged to keep it secret. If anyone or anything were to step upon or pass over this glyph, the energy contained within it would be released in one devastating instant.</p>
- <p>You sheathe your sword and warn the others of what you have found, telling them to retreat with you to a safe distance. From the cover of a gravestone, several yards from the tomb, you instruct Star Lynx to pick up a rock and hurl it through the open doorway. He responds by selecting an apple-sized chunk of granite which he lobs with accuracy into the tomb.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If the number you have chosen is 1<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If it is 4<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb more than two hundred steps before the staircase arrives at a short tunnel which opens into a damp, cavernous hall. This huge chamber is partitioned into pens which house several giant dragonflies, similar to those you encountered when first you arrived on Avaros. High above, great oblong sections of the steel roof are open to the elements and the bases of passing storm clouds are lit up by the glow from the hall<ch.apos/>s phosphorescent lighting. You scan the rainswept pens for sight of your adversary, and find him climbing upon the saddled back of a great crimson dragonfly. He urges the creature into the air and it obeys with stunning swiftness. You watch as Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane steers his winged mount once around the roof of the hail, and then, to your horror, you see him bring the creature to hover directly over your head. He shouts at you, but his words are lost in the buzz of the dragonfly<ch.apos/>s massive wings. Then he leans from the saddle and casts down a metallic box before urging his mount skywards. The box lands close by, bouncing once before coming to rest near your feet. Your heart pounds when you sense that it is a powerful time bomb. A panel on the side of this device contains several illuminated numerals that are blinking intermittently. You can see by the numbers remaining that you have only 30 seconds before the bomb detonates.</p>
- <choice idref="sect177">If you wish to attempt to diffuse this time bomb, <link-text>turn to 177</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect190">If you decide instead to mount one of the giant dragonflies and attempt to escape from this hall before the bomb explodes, <link-text>turn to 190</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nausea wells up from the pit of your stomach as the lower chamber of the tower is suddenly transformed into a whirling spiral of violent colours and noise. You feel yourself falling forwards into this vortex and, for a few fleeting seconds, you glimpse your adversary. He is brandishing his sword and laughing like a madman, his face twisted with maniacal glee as he rides this terrifying whirlwind. Then he is lost to the chaos of the maelstrom and he vanishes from your sight.</p>
- <p>For what seems like an eternity you spin and fall through a rainbow of colour and sound. Only gradually do you become aware that this nightmare journey is coming to an end when the noise abates and the swirling colours begin to fade. Then, with a jolt, you find yourself standing ankle-deep in stagnant green water, struggling to keep your balance. You draw your weapon and scan your surroundings, fearful of sudden attack, but you soon realize that you are alone.</p>
- <p>You appear to be under the ground, standing in a crude sewer-like tunnel which has been excavated by primitive means. The roots of trees protrude from its beaten earth ceiling and there is a stale and unpleasant smell of rotting vegetation. You use your psychic skills to probe for Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane but you cannot detect his presence, and so you sheathe your weapon and relax your guard. The encounter with the manifestation of Naar has left a fear gnawing at your heart, the fear that the Dark God could at any moment he chooses lay claim to your soul. But your Kai courage swiftly overcomes the anxiety and you draw comfort from your faith in the Gods Kai and Ishir. You offer up a prayer to them to watch over you during the coming trial of strength, and vow that you will never lose hope, no matter what the dangers you may have yet to face. As if in answer to your prayer you feel a surge of energy flow through your body, revitalizing your mind and senses (restore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points which you may have lost during your adventure so far).</p>
- <p>Alert and confident, you peer along the gloomy tunnel in both directions and try to determine the best course to follow. Neither way looks especially appealing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect128">If you choose to explore the tunnel ahead, <link-text>turn to 128</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect262">If you decide to follow the tunnel behind, <link-text>turn to 262</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rear of the warehouse opens onto a wasteland of shattered rubble which is bisected by a dead stream of salty, acidic water. You trudge across this bleak and forbidding landscape, past sharp spires of crimson and jet that erupt through the dereliction to scratch the cloudy sky. Rust-red water encircles their bases, lending them a wholly sinister aspect. To your eyes it seems as if this blighted city has been impaled upon these cruel, towering spikes.</p>
- <p>Beyond the spires you discover a paved street almost clear of debris. You find several sets of footprints here, and your hopes are raised when you determine that one set belong to Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. You follow them to a gutted building, several storeys high, which is adorned with strangely angular gargoyles. The inside of this crumbling edifice is completely empty and your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail passes through it to a rear exit. As you emerge on the far side, you catch your first breathtaking glimpse of this grim city<ch.apos/>s tallest structure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect250"><link-text>Turn to 250</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The giant serpent tries desperately to resist your mental command to retreat, but it cannot overcome your powers of persuasion. Slowly it retreats towards the cavern wall until it is halted by the chain to which it is shackled. Cautiously you advance, keeping a wary eye on its trembling form as you skirt around the opposite wall. Within seconds you are able to reach the safety of the exit tunnel and make your escape unscathed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The water is refreshingly cold to your touch, but it has a metallic taste that makes you retch: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <choice idref="sect336"><link-text>Turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kekataag the Avenger is attired in battle armour that, glimmers like slime-dulled gold. Beneath his helmet there is a hollow skull-face from which emerges a sickly stench that permeates even the foul air of this hall. The skulls and bones of humans bedeck his armoured hide and in his mighty hands he carries a great two-handed axe, its blade stained black with the blood of his countless victims.</p>
-
- <p>This fearsome warrior holds you with his glowing eyes and you feel waves of powerful psychic energy buffet your mind. You muster your Magnakai defences to repel this attack, but you sustain psychic shock before your defences knit together properly: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This sudden and unprovoked attack leaves you in no doubt that Kekataag is deeply jealous of your supposed defeat of Lone Wolf.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steel Hand and the other Kai clear away the rubble to reveal a trapdoor set into the floor. You command Star Lynx to tie one end of his rope to its bronze ring and then together, from a safe distance, you pull open this stone hatch. No traps are sprung as the heavy slab of stone creaks open, and when you move closer, you see a circular chute and a ladder descending to a deeper level of the catacombs. You peer down into the darkness and you detect fresh tracks on the ladder<ch.apos/>s iron rungs. You are back on the impostor<ch.apos/>s trail.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you lead the descent into the chute, using your powers of infravision to scan for signs of movement in the damp darkness below. After several minutes you reach the bottom of the ladder where you discover a large, vaulted chamber. Around its walls are positioned urns and grey stone caskets, each embellished with traces of gold. There is an unexpected air of opulence about this vault which prompts you to guess that it is a secret burial tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have ever visited the Graveyard of the Ancients in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you have never visited this place, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your target is beyond the effective range of your power word. The energy of your attack dissipates before it reaches Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, and all that he feels is a cool and pleasant breeze. The use of this Discipline at such extreme range drains your strength unnecessarily: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>You watch your adversary and see him getting to his feet he is moving deeper into the jungle. Fearing that he is getting away, you dash from the cavemouth and chase after him. But you have covered fewer than a dozen yards when suddenly an arrow comes whistling out of the undergrowth. It speeds directly towards your face with terrifying accuracy.</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess Kai-alchemy but have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As your enemy<ch.apos/>s platform passes through the next level of the tower, he leaps off and disappears from view. A few moments later, when your platform reaches this level, Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is nowhere to be seen. You step into the circular chamber and cast your eyes around its bare metallic surfaces. There is only one exit from here: a narrow tunnel in the north wall.</p>
- <p>Quickly you enter this tunnel and discover footprints in the dust which blankets the floor. You follow the tracks, but they soon fade and then disappear completely. You stop to examine the floor and your tracking skills tell you that your adversary is deliberately masking his trail. Determined not to give up the pursuit, you break into a run and hurry along this tunnel to where it makes a sharp turn to the left. What you see filling the corridor ahead brings you skidding to a halt.</p>
- <p>The way is blocked by a criss-crossed tangle of thick, gluey strands, which are anchored to the floor, walls and ceiling. You sense that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has cast this magical net to ensnare and delay you while he makes good his escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect118">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 118</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect233">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 233</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect187">If you possess Grand Weaponmastery, have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, and possess a bladed weapon (ie sword, axe, dagger etc), <link-text>turn to 187</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect69">If you possess none of these skills, rank, weapons or Special Item, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your blow has ripped a hole in the creature<ch.apos/>s silvery wing. The wound is not fatal, but the damage is enough to render the hungry creature incapable of ascending any higher. It emits a loud buzz of frustration which fades as it slowly spirals away towards a cluster of smaller dragonflies hovering near the centre of the gorge.</p>
- <p>Several minutes elapse before your tireless mount reaches the apex of the cavern and soars into the light-filled vent. Upon entering this vast aperture you are buffeted by crosswinds which sweep you and your air-steed precariously close to its rocky lip. The shock of the unexpectedly violent wind causes your mount to circle around the lip and attempt to dive back into the cavern. Blind with fear, it no longer responds to your commands, forcing you to take drastic action to avoid being carried back into the gorge. As you swoop past a rocky outcrop, you leap from the creature<ch.apos/>s back and abandon yourself to the crosswinds. Only your Kai mastery and your lightning-swift reactions save you from being crushed to death as you are blown towards the jagged, volcanic rock.</p>
- <p>Miraculously, you survive the impact and are able to haul yourself out of the vent and climb safely onto a surface that you assume is the roof of the cavern. Seeking shelter from the raging crosswinds, you squeeze yourself into a hollow in the porous rock from where you are able to take stock of your new surroundings. The sight makes you gasp, for it is a view that truly rivals the fertile wonders of the cavern below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You utter the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and loose a power beam of your own at the back of the running warrior. It tears open the canister that is strapped between his shoulder blades and, with a sudden eruption of blue-white light, he is hurled upon the cylinders that cover his slain comrade. For a few seconds a spidery net of pulsating light enshrouds the two lifeless warriors, then it crackles and disappears, leaving behind an acrid stench of scorched metal and roasted meat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the body of your enemy and allow yourself a smile of grim satisfaction that you have, at last, rid Aon of this evil intruder.</p>
- <p><quote>Hurry, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Alyss, impatiently, <quote>Naar is vengeful. He will soon be wanting to know how his champion is faring. If he finds him slain, we will both feel his wrath.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Then we must escape from here,</quote> you reply, <quote>but how? Do you know of a way?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Mmm<ch.ellips/>maybe,</quote> she replies, narrowing her green eyes. <quote>Yes<ch.ellips/>I<ch.apos/>ve got a plan.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect280">If you possess the Discipline of Kai-screen, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 280</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect98">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 98</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Black Hawk unsheathes his sword and rests this gleaming band of Sommlending steel across his forearm, awaiting your signal to proceed. You cast your eyes over the surface of the wall one last time, to satisfy yourself that you can detect no lurking traps, and when you are fully confident that it is safe you nod your head affirmatively. Because you are so sure that there is no threat, what occurs in the next instant is doubly shocking.</p>
- <p>Black Hawk puts the tip of his sword to the hairline crack in the wall and presses forward with all of his weight. But, unexpectedly, he meets with no resistance. His blade disappears into the wall and the young Kai Master stumbles forwards and vanishes through the seemingly solid granite. For a second or two there is a deathly silence. Then an explosion of white light obliterates your vision and you feel a searing wave of heat buffet your face and body.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect223">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 223</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect99">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 99</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the great portal closing behind the hover-wagon. It makes surprisingly little noise for such a huge expanse of iron, barely a serpent-like hiss as it seals out the stormy city wind. You stay hidden until the wagon comes to a halt and then you venture a glance over the side of its cargo bay to assess the situation.</p>
- <p>Before your eyes there stretches a cavernous plaza, crafted entirely of steel, glass, silver and iron. Towering girders arc over your head, buttressed upon each other to support the many upper levels of this stupendous edifice. The plaza is vast and alien in design, and it is virtually deserted. You count no more than six armoured warriors, some so far distant that you have to magnify your vision to be sure that they are what they seem.</p>
- <p>The arrival of the wagon attracts no attention. The driverless craft has docked of its own accord at a steel jetty that encircles an iron support pillar. The coast is clear and so you waste no time in attempting to locate your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail. As expected, you find traces of his tracks close to the portal. They lead you to an archway which opens into a steel-lined chamber that has two exits: one to the left, the other to the right. Here the tracks become indistinct; you are unable to determine which way Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane went from here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to explore the left exit, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you choose to explore the right exit, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You take several deep breaths as you prepare to utter the Kai power word. Focusing on your enemy<ch.apos/>s hiding place, you expel the word<ch.emdash/>Kai!<ch.emdash/>and you see the undergrowth shimmer as the force of your exhalation ploughs through the jungle like an invisible fist.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is more than 20, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect327">If it is 9 or more, <link-text>turn to 327</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow flies straight and true and hits the creature<ch.apos/>s glowing eye, yet it does not penetrate deep enough to cause a fatal wound. The eye dims but the beast does not slow its pace, and there is now no time for a second shot. You only just have time to unsheathe a hand weapon to defend yourself as the metallic horror comes leaping at you through the darkness.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mech-wulf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The swift and unexpected ferocity of this psychic assault makes you fall to your knees and clasp your head in both hands. Pain is flooding your mind and causing your body to convulse with psychic shock. Dimly, through a red haze, you sense that the Platinum Amulet you are wearing around your neck affords you some defence against this attack. Sadly, it is insufficient to save you from sustaining damage to the fabric of your mind.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). Now add 5 to the number you have chosen. The resultant total equals the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost due to this psychic attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect203">If you survive this mental assault, you may continue by <link-text>turning to 203</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You open the cage door and command the creature to jump onto your outstretched arm. You are hoping to be able to use it as a guide to help you find Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, but the primate does not co-operate as expected. It is deeply confused. It thinks that you are Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane and adamantly it refuses to leave its cage.</p>
- <p>You detect that it has suffered cruelly at the hands of the impostor, and this sudden realization serves to strengthen your determination to find and defeat him. You take one last look at the pitiful creature before closing the cage door, and continuing your exploration of the tower by way of the circular stairs.</p>
- <choice idref="sect287"><link-text>Turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you emerge from the tunnel, the oppressive jungle heat hits you like a sledgehammer. Your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus automatically regulates your body temperature, making the heat bearable, yet even so it comes as a shock that any living creature can exist in this hellish environment.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, the shock of the jungle heat is only the first of two nasty surprises that await you. The second is a barbed arrow that whistles from out of the dense foliage and comes speeding towards your forehead!</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess Kai-alchemy but have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The instant you set foot into the hall, your worst fears are realized. The floor is not solid and quickly you sink up to your waist in a dry, foul-smelling quicksand. You spread your arms and legs to slow your rate of descent, but your action does little to help your situation. It seems the more you move the quicker you sink. In desperation, you attempt to swim through this dry morass.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 1 to the number you have picked. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 2. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is 12 or less, deduct 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect158">If your total score is now 3 or lower, <link-text>turn to 158</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect257">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 257</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With mixed feelings of fear and fascination you force open your eyes and gaze upon your alien surroundings. At first it seems as if you have fallen into a humid, green-walled cell, illuminated by a solitary lantern at the apex of a fluted chimney-like ceiling. Then slowly your mind makes sense of sights and smells and the realization of where you are makes you shiver with dread.</p>
- <p>You have landed inside the corolla tube of some gigantic flower. Huge stamens rise up to the light from the sticky bowl-shaped floor on which you lie, and nearby there is a large, chute-like tunnel which drops away into the plant<ch.apos/>s hollow stem. For a moment you close your eyes and let your psychic senses explore this strange environment. Your greatest fear is that you have been drawn through the Shadow Gate to the Plane of Darkness, the supernatural realm of Dark God Naar, yet you can detect no abnormally high concentrations of evil. Also, you are unable to sense the presence of your adversary<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. Your hopes begin to rise when suddenly you realize that you are still somewhere within the material universe of Aon. You are able to determine that this alien place is not your home world, yet you are certain that it is a planet that lies within the same galaxy as Magnamund.</p>
- <p>You cling to this small crumb of comfort and resolve to find a way of returning to Magnamund as quickly as you can. You open your eyes and stare around the walls of your plant-prison, searching for a means of escape. There appear to be only two ways out: by climbing a stamen towards the light high above, or by sliding down the nearby chute which plunges deep into the plant<ch.apos/>s stem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect264">If you wish to climb a stamen, <link-text>turn to 264</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect103">If you choose to slide down the hollow stem, <link-text>turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have covered twenty yards of a passageway that extends from the balcony when you hear a grating noise. It is a concealed portal, and it is sliding shut to seal off the hall through which you have just passed.</p>
- <p>Ahead lies a chamber which is bedecked with a score of lavish tapestries, each depicting the landscapes of remote and wondrous planets within the universe of Aon. Your adversary<ch.apos/>s tracks pass through this opulent chamber and end at a pair of stout wooden doors, inlaid with exquisite gold marquetry. You place your ear to one of the doors and concentrate. The only sound you can hear is the crackle of a log fire, but your Kai senses detect the presence of your adversary in the room beyond. You peer through a keyhole and glimpse part of a gallery with a railed parapet. The wooden rails are lit from below by the warming yellow flicker of a fire.</p>
- <p>You reach out to open the doors and confront your enemy, but a strong sense of unease stays your hand. It feels as if a swarm of butterflies are fighting to escape from your churning stomach. You have a chilling premonition that a confrontation with Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane in the room beyond could prove fatal for both of you. This fear prompts you to pray to the Gods Kai and Ishir to sustain and protect you in the coming fight.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect104">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 104</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect216">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 216</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You relax the tension in your body and allow yourself to enter a trance state, the preliminary stage required before you spirit-walk. You feel yourself leave your corporeal body and, in spirit form, you move through the curtain of vines and out into the jungle heat. Immediately beyond the cave mouth there is a small clearing which slopes away to the jungle perimeter. You scan the border of dense foliage and you are shocked when you detect your adversary, Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, hiding among the bushes less than fifty yards away. He is armed with a bow which he has trained upon the entrance to the tunnel.</p>
- <p>You retreat into the cave mouth and re-enter your body. On awakening from your trance, you move forward and peer through the hanging vines to locate your enemy<ch.apos/>s hiding place. So advanced is his camouflage skill that it takes you several minutes to find him. Once you are sure you have him, you allow yourself a smile; you are looking forward to turning the tables on this arrogant impostor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown (and wish to use your mastery), <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you do not have a Bow, the Discipline of Grand Nexus, or if you have yet to attain this higher level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You haul yourself out of the putrid, salty water, and narrowly avoid the clutches of the cellar beast. The creature opens its fanged jaw and issues a gurgling roar of frustration as it gets ready to climb onto the steps and pursue you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect172">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, and have attained the rank of Sun Thane, <link-text>turn to 172</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Star Lynx dives for cover behind the gravestone, but you stay on your feet to watch the trajectory of the rock as it disappears into the open tomb. The moment it passes over the glyph there is a blinding flash of white light, followed almost instantly by the deafening crackle of exploding electrical energies. You are hit by the concussive force of the explosion which knocks you flat on your back<ch.emdash/>lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As you lie on the hard damp ground, gasping for breath, you can hear splinters of stone ricocheting off the surrounding gravestones and smell the stench of scorched earth and ozone in the air. Then, abruptly, the noise and light abates and the burial ground is shrouded once more in gloomy silence. You pull yourself to your feet to see that the doorway is now clear of rubble, save for the slab upon which the glyph is inscribed. The destructive power of the glyph has been discharged, but only temporarily. Your senses warn you that it is recharging; you have but a few seconds in which to enter the tomb before the magical device is active once more.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, my lords,</quote> you shout, as you hurry towards the entrance, <quote>Follow me!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the arrows whistles past dangerously close to your legs, while the other passes wide and shatters harmlessly against the ceiling. Before the creatures can reload and fire again, you reach the balcony and speak the words which negate the effects of the <spell>Teleport</spell> spell. The moment your feet touch the ground, you hurry into the archway beyond.</p>
- <p>Use of the Teleport spell costs you 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Be sure to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">To continue, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cursing your predicament, you steel yourself to confront the chained serpent. Unsheathing your weapon, you take your first tentative steps towards the hissing creature and soon discover that its iron collar and chain will prevent it from reaching you so long as you keep close to the cavern wall. Mindful of this, you skirt around the writhing serpent and inch your way carefully towards the tunnel. However, you have progressed only a few yards when you feel the floor sloping away. The water is getting deeper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess Magi-magic, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your adversary sniggers when he hears your cry of pain. Yet, despite the burning agony of your wound, you wrench the evil shaft from your chest and force yourself to stand. Defiantly, you level your weapon at the darkened stairwell. But Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is no longer crouching near the steps; he is fast ascending them. Calling upon your innate healing skills, you staunch the flow of blood that is soaking the front of your tunic and stumble towards the staircase in pursuit of your hated foe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place your lips to the plant wall and utter the power word of the Elder Magi: <spell>Gloar</spell>!</p>
- <p>The explosive power of this magical word is greatly accentuated within the confines of the stem. It tears a large ragged hole in the plant wall through which, with little difficulty, you are able to make your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230"><link-text>Turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Counterspell</spell> and, to your relief and amazement, the fire-bolt splutters and dissolves within an arm<ch.apos/>s reach of your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your advanced Kai instincts, you avoid the rain of debris without too much difficulty and reach the entrance to the skull-rock unscathed. Without any hesitation you enter the misty portal in pursuit of your enemy. Barely seconds later, there is a tremendous explosion and the entire temple ceiling collapses.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174"><link-text>Turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you twist the dial to the correct number, the panel slides open and a rush of air surges into the cell. Greedily you fill your lungs as you stagger out into the corridor and make your way back along this steel-lined passage towards the stairs. Quietly cursing your ill luck, you descend the steps to the foyer and leave the building.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced mastery, you are able to project the image of the creature<ch.apos/>s most-feared adversary into its mind<ch.apos/>s eye. The huge serpent reacts violently; it twists and wrenches at its iron collar in a desperate attempt to break free from its bonds. Its great body, which is studded with tiny barbed horns, thrashes the water into a stinking foam as it writhes back and forth in front of the exit tunnel. Your psychic projection has this creature terrified, but its state of near-panic will now make it difficult for you to reach the tunnel and escape from this cavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect293">If you possess Kai alchemy, <link-text>turn to 293</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect326">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 326</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you negate your spell of <!-- <spell>Levitation (?)</spell> -->levitation and set foot upon firm ground, you feel a warm breeze. You sense that it comes from a stairwell at the far end of this new hail and, when you investigate it, you rediscover Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s footprints on the stone steps. You cast your hands over them and detect that this is not a false trail: your enemy passed this way sometime within the last hour.</p>
- <p>Slowly you ascend the stairs and arrive at the arched entrance to a large, vaulted stone chamber. Gathered around a fountain set into its north wall are a group of six grey-skinned humanoids. They are busy drinking a clear, oily fluid that pours from the fountain<ch.apos/>s spout into a semi-circular trough. All are barefoot and clad in rags, and they are each armed with a spear and a bow. The only exit from this chamber appears to be an archway set high in the north wall. There is a balcony in front of it that can only be reached by two flights of stairs which rise up on either side of the fountain.</p>
- <p>Quietly you observe the creatures slaking their thirsts, and you try to formulate a way in which you can get past them and reach the balconied exit in the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you possess a Bow, and the Discipline of Magi-Magic, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the rank of Grand Crown (and wish to use it), <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess these skills, or a Bow, or if you have yet to attain the required levels of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release your grip of your enemy and roll away from him. Moments later, the beam from his comrade<ch.apos/>s weapon hits his side and erupts through the back of his armour. The force of the impact lifts him bodily from the floor and hurls him into a pile of rusty cylinders, bringing them crashing down to bury him. Shocked and angry at having accidentally killed his confederate, the newly-arrived warrior rushes forward. He is determined to find and finish you once and for all, but his anger and his armour put him at a disadvantage. He fails to see where you have gone and, under cover of the smoke and debris, you manage to circle around behind him without being seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect349">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 349</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you complete the code, you feel a shuddering vibration run through the great iron portal. Slowly it grinds open to reveal an antechamber that is lit by a dozen flaming torches set around its glassy walls. The wind has now become so fierce that it is tearing the fabric of your cloak and tunic. Rather than remain outside in the storm a moment longer, you hurry through the open portal and seek shelter within.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you more than half an hour to cut a clear path through these magical strands, and the effort leaves you aching with fatigue.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 2 points. If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 4 points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">To continue, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ask Steel Hand to give you his rope and he obeys dutifully. Then you utter the words of the Brotherhood Spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and almost immediately you feel gravity losing its grip on your body. Gently you rise to the ceiling of the vault where, using the exposed stone buttresses, you are able to pull yourself along until you are directly above the centre of the fissure. Here you fix one end of the rope to an exposed stone beam and cast the other end to your companions wailing below. One by one they swing across the void and, when all have crossed safely, you untie the rope and pull yourself to the far side before intoning the words that cancel the effects of the spell.</p>
- <p>It is clear from their wide-eyed expressions that they are all impressed with your mastery of Brotherhood magic, especially Steel Hand. You gather up his rope and as you give it back to him you say: <quote>Don<ch.apos/>t worry. One day I<ch.apos/>ll instruct you in the ways of magic so that you, too, can walk a ceiling!</quote></p>
- <p>The young Kai Master smiles as he stuffs his rope into his bulging backpack.</p>
- <p><quote>And now, my lords, we must press on. We<ch.apos/>ve a trail to find,</quote> you say, and you motion your companions to follow as you get ready to leave this chamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel your throat tightening and your lungs collapsing as the air is sucked out of the chamber. The whirling flames of the fire have rapidly transformed into a raging vortex which is dragging into its core every loose item in the banquet hall. You and Alyss hang on to the banister rail affixed to the gallery stairs, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain your grip. Chairs, tapestries, tables and other furniture batter you as they tumble past to be sucked into the vortex (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Then the rail collapses and the two of you are drawn into the raging heart of this fearsome whirlpool.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>So advanced is your adversary<ch.apos/>s camouflage skill that it takes you several minutes to locate him, despite the fact that he is less than fifty yards away. He is partially hidden behind a tree, and he is armed with a bow which is trained upon the entrance to the tunnel. Once you are sure you have found him, you allow yourself a smile; you are looking forward to turning the tables on this arrogant impostor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect196">If you have a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 196</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown (and wish to use your mastery), <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect114">If you do not have a Bow, the Discipline of Grand Nexus, or if you have yet to attain this higher level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 114</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The strands of this magical net are thick, sticky and tough. Clearing a way through them quickly becomes a trial of strength and stamina.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess a bladed weapon, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect65">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect228">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 228</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few feet of the exit tunnel when a heavy sheet of iron falls from the ceiling and seals off your chosen route of escape. You spin around and glimpse the creatures in the pot who attempted to shoot you full of arrows. They are small, blue-skinned reptilians, with cruel crocodilian faces and curiously human hands. They are armed with finely crafted bows of gleaming white bone which you detect are capable of discharging six poisoned arrows every second. The reptilians are close to reloading these bows<ch.emdash/>you must act quickly if you are to avoid becoming the target of another deadly volley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess a Bow and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, or a Bow, or choose to use none of them, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once outside, you focus your tracking skills and attempt to pick up your enemy<ch.apos/>s trail. You have a feeling that he may have doubled-back on his tracks and so you retrace your steps to the street where you first appeared in this alien city. As you are nearing this place, you suddenly hear the ringing metallic clang of an iron girder falling from a height. The noise echoes from an alleyway off to your right and immediately you go to investigate.</p>
- <p>At the end of the alley you discover a derelict warehouse. Fire has ravaged its interior and much of the roof has caved in, but amongst the debris you can see that it once stored metal cylinders and coils of wire. You stop at the entrance and listen. Your caution is rewarded when you hear footsteps at the rear of the building. You draw your weapon and enter, using the debris for cover as you inch your way towards the back of the ruined warehouse. You are moving between cover when suddenly you see the outline of a human form silhouetted against a broken window. Instantly you know that it is not Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane: this figure is clad in grey, close-fitting armour and is holding a metallic spear. The realization makes you hesitate, and in that split second of indecision, the armoured figure sees you and raises its spear. A blinding flame ignites at its tip and a beam of white-hot light comes speeding towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect312">If your total is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 312</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You motion to your companions to follow, then you take your first step into the dark tomb. Suddenly there is a blinding flash of white light followed almost instantly by the deafening crackle of exploding electrical energies. Pain consumes your body as you are lifted into the air and thrown backwards by the blast. You have triggered a hidden power-glyph, a magical booby trap, you have been caught by its explosive energy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the Random Number (0=10). Now add 5 to the number you picked. The resulting total equals the number <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">Make the necessary adjustments to your Action Chart before <link-text>turning to 13</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Kai mastery reveals to you that a hoard of precious platinum is stored in a chamber at the end of the left corridor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you wish to explore the left corridor, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you choose instead to explore the right corridor, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature that is diving towards you suddenly freezes in mid-air. The morbid fear of death that had gripped your heart quickly evaporates, but you are left with a feeling of deep unease as your senses detect that something extraordinary is taking place around you. The hall has become filled with a deadly silence and everything, including the tongues of flame trailing from the creature<ch.apos/>s sword, and the blazing fire in the grate, is utterly frozen. It is as if time itself is standing still.</p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is a frozen statue, his face fixed in the malevolent sneer he was wearing in gleeful anticipation that you were about to meet your doom. You are beginning to think that perhaps you have been killed and that this is life after death, when suddenly you glimpse a blurred movement out of the corner of your eye.</p>
- <p>From the shadows cast by the gallery there steps a young teenage girl. She is dressed in a leather jerkin and threadbare trousers which are cut short at the knees. She is barefoot and appears to be armed only with a mischievous grin.</p>
- <p><quote>Who<ch.ellips/> who are you? Why are you here?</quote> you stammer, dumbly. Casually she walks towards you and reaches up to touch a finger to the frozen fiery sword clutched in the taloned hands of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s winged minion. There is a gentle Pop! and the creature disappears.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.apos/>m Alyss, and I do hate cheats,</quote> she says, as she wanders over to where Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is standing immobile. Cheekily she pokes out her tongue at him and then she spins on her heel to face you.</p>
- <p><quote>Now, perhaps you can finish what you came here to do, Lone Wolf,</quote> she says, and claps her hands three times. A sudden rush of noise assails your ears and your senses reel as the reality of time comes flooding back into the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296"><link-text>Turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With a loud and angry buzzing noise, the predatory dragonfly circles you twice and then dives down like a speeding hawk to make its initial attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Golasyx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is attempting to stab you with the tip of its spear-like proboscis as it swoops past, therefore you need only fight this combat for one round.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you inflict an equal or greater <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss upon the enemy in this single round of combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you sustain a greater <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss than your enemy, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your advanced mastery, you cause the dragonfly<ch.apos/>s wounds to close up and heal. Consciousness and strength return to its battered body and the creature is able to pull out of its dive before it is too late. It swoops deep into the cavernous moat of the tower to gather speed for its ascent into the clouds. As you soar past the top of the tower, you see that the dragonfly pens have been completely destroyed by the explosion. Fire rages through the uppermost levels of the tower, and is spreading quickly to those below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your tracking skills to find your enemy<ch.apos/>s trail, but following it becomes increasingly difficult. You sense that he has used magic to assist his escape for the foliage hereabouts is entangled far tighter than in neighbouring areas of this jungle. Your progress is slowed, but eventually you reach a copse of toa trees where you hear the sound of running water away to your left. Your adversary<ch.apos/>s tracks turn in this direction and you follow them all the way to the banks of a fast flowing watercourse.</p>
- <p>Less than fifty yards downstream there is a primitive settlement of huts that form an untidy line along the edge of the stream. The tracks appear to lead to this settlement but you can see no sign of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. The place looks deserted.</p>
- <choice idref="sect215">If you wish to stay in the jungle and observe the settlement, <link-text>turn to 215</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect297">If you choose to continue your pursuit, you can approach the settlement under cover of the jungle, by <link-text>turning to 297</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You motion your companions to follow as you leave this chamber by a tunnel in its south wall. This new passage gradually descends by slope and stair through deeper levels of the catacombs. You detect no trace of the impostor and, when eventually the tunnel comes to a dead end, you curse your ill luck and turn reluctantly to retrace your steps. It is then that you sense a faint but lingering aura of evil close to the tunnel floor.</p>
- <p>Closer inspection reveals a trapdoor set into the flagstones. You pull this heavy hatch open and discover a circular chute and a ladder descending into darkness. Your heart misses a beat when you notice fresh tracks on the ladder<ch.apos/>s iron rungs: at last you have found the impostor<ch.apos/>s trail.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you lead the descent into the chute, using your powers of infravision to scan for signs of movement in the damp darkness below. After several minutes you reach the bottom of the ladder where you discover a large vaulted chamber. Around its walls are positioned urns and grey stone caskets, each embellished with traces of gold. There is an unexpected air of opulence about this vault which prompts you to guess that it is a secret burial tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have ever visited the Graveyard of the Ancients in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you have never visited this place, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way towards the avenue and take cover in a darkened alleyway, an ideal place from which to observe the passing traffic. Thirty minutes elapse before a hover-wagon glides into view at the city end of the avenue. It is bound for the tower, but you note that its cargo compartment is completely sealed and so you decide to let it pass and wait for a more suitable target. Fortunately, you do not have to wait too long. Within the space of a few minutes another appears. This one, like the first, has no driver, but its cargo bay is open to the elements. As you wait for it to get closer, you judge its speed and prepare yourself to leap aboard as it passes. It is less heavily laden than the first wagon and is moving much quicker; leaping aboard this speeding wagon is not going to be easy.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 12 or less, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect301">If your total is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 301</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect185">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 185</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The grating rumble of heavy stone on stone heralds the sudden appearance of the impostor. Like some secret door to a nightmare realm, the entire far wall of this vault is slowly sliding open. Violent tremors shake the floor and orange tongues of flaming gas shoot from the ever-widening gap. Silhouetted in the centre of this fiery portal is a warrior clad in a parody of the robes of a Kai Grand Master. His stature and his facial features bear an uncanny resemblance to your own, yet the two of you are not entirely identical. The eyes of this impostor betray his true nature for they are black and cold; they are like two tiny windows through which you can see the evil lurking deep within his heart.</p>
- <p>The portal crackles and roars like a blazing furnace yet it radiates no heat. You sense powerful magic at work here and you shout a command to your young Kai comrades to prepare themselves for combat. They react as one, their years of training suppressing their fears, and swiftly they draw arms and form up in a protective circle around you. The impostor unsheathes his black-bladed sword and gives vent to a chilling laugh that momentarily drowns the roar of the flames. His cruel laughter fills your head and suddenly the stone walls of the vault seem to writhe and buckle inwards. Your psychic Kai defences resist this illusion and the distortion ceases, yet as it does so you realize that something important has changed. You command your companions to retreat towards the chute but they do not respond. They are completely rigid, frozen immobile like four stone statues.</p>
- <p><quote>Ha ha ha<ch.ellips/></quote> cackles the impostor, <quote>so we meet at last, Lone Wolf.</quote> He advances a little nearer and you feel an icy chill wash over you. The body of this bogus Kai lord radiates coldness.</p>
- <p><quote>How I have enjoyed myself in your guise,</quote> he sneers. <quote>Let me introduce myself<ch.ellips/>I am Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. An apt name don<ch.apos/>t you think?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>What is your purpose?</quote> you growl in reply, your hand poised to draw a weapon in case he should attempt to launch a sudden attack.</p>
- <p><quote>Why, I<ch.apos/>ve come to kill you, of course,</quote> he retorts, his voice full of contempt. <quote>There should be but one Grand Master and only I am worthy of such distinction.</quote> The impostor narrows his coal-black eyes and curls back his lip in disdain.</p>
- <p><quote>And I intend to prove my worthiness, Lone Wolf,</quote> he adds, with quiet menace.</p>
- <p><quote>How so?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>By a duel,</quote> he replies. <quote>I challenge you to a duel. A fight to the finish. A fight between just you and I, Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>And if I refuse your challenge?</quote> you retort, defiantly.</p>
- <p><quote>Then your four frail acolytes will die.</quote> The impostor sweeps his sword in a wide arc, as if to emphasize his threat, and the fiery wall at his back begins to change. The plumes of flame twist and spin with increasing speed until the wall is transformed into a swirling vortex. Fear tightens its icy fingers around your throat as you witness the creation of a Shadow Gate<ch.emdash/>a portal to another plane of existence. At once you know his threat is real. If he were to direct the power of the vortex towards your paralysed companions, they would be helpless to resist. They would be sucked into the Shadow Gate and destroyed.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> you say, <quote>I accept your challenge.</quote></p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane gives a triumphant smile and whirls his black sword around his head. Then he dashes the blade to the floor and, in a terrifying instant, a mighty gust of wind tears the two of you off your feet and sends you both hurling into the fiery heart of the dread Shadow Gate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect200"><link-text>Turn to 200</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect81">
- <meta><title>81</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You focus on Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane as you intone the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Hold Enemy</spell>. You see him shudder, and the half-eaten fruit drops from his grasp. But suddenly you sense resistance: your adversary is casting a counterspell. There is an abrupt release of energy as the effects of your spell are negated and broken: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>To your dismay, you watch Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane leap to his feet and make a hasty escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect224"><link-text>Turn to 224</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect82">
- <meta><title>82</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The reptilians complete the reloading of their bows, and together they lean over the lip of the pot to take aim at your unprotected body. Simultaneously they let fire, sending a stream of arrows whistling towards your chest, and you are forced to dive headlong into the grey slime to avoid being peppered with poison-tipped shafts. One of the bone arrows clips your calf and you feel an agonising pain shoot up the back of your thigh as its poison enters your blood: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your innate healing skills quickly neutralize the venom and seal the wound. Dripping with slime, you scramble to your feet and hear your thwarted enemies cursing you vilely as they fumble with their bows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect288">If you possess a Naptha Bomb, <link-text>turn to 288</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect320">If you do not possess this item, <link-text>turn to 320</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect83">
- <meta><title>83</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The steel walls of the room you have entered are sheened with ice. Several tall glass canisters stand in a circle at the centre of this frigid chamber, connected to one another with pipes and coils of copper cable. Their liquid contents bubble and seethe and appear to be boiling despite the freezing air temperature. You walk around them, mesmerized by the strange beauty of the roiling multi-coloured fluids. Then you sense imminent danger somewhere to your right and instantly you spin around to face it, your hand reaching reflexively to the weapon at your belt.</p>
- <p>You see a dark stairwell and a shadowy shape which is crouched near to the bottom steps. It is Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. He is clutching a bow and he has an arrow drawn ready to fire. The instant you see him releases his bowstring and the tip of the arrow bursts into flames as it comes speeding towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. If your current ENDURANCE score is 10 or less, deduct 2.</p>
- <choice idref="sect155">If your total is now 3 or lower, <link-text>turn to 155</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect102">If it is 4<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 102</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect248">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 248</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect84">
- <meta><title>84</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You increase the rate of your ascent and swiftly accelerate beyond the reach of the predatory dragonfly. Unable to catch you, it emits a loud buzz of frustration which slowly fades as it spirals away. You glance down to see it satisfying its appetite in an attack upon a number of smaller dragonflies. From this great height they appear to be no larger than a cluster of colourful dots hovering above the centre of the great gorge.</p>
- <p>After several minutes you reach the apex of the cavern and soar into the light-filled vent. Upon entering this vast aperture you are buffeted by crosswinds which sweep you precariously towards its rocky lip, yet your Kai mastery and your lightning-swift reactions save you from being crushed to death as you are blown onto its jagged, volcanic edge.</p>
- <p>You survive the impact and are able to haul yourself out of the vent and climb safely onto a surface that you assume to be the roof of the cavern. Seeking shelter from the raging crosswinds, you squeeze yourself into a hollow in the porous rock from where you are able to take stock of your new surroundings. The sight makes you gasp, for it is a view that truly rivals the fertile wonders of the cavern below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect85">
- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Surely the great master of all the Kai is not a coward?</quote> sneers Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, taunting you for your refusal to accept his challenge. <quote>Are you not brave enough to prove your worth?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>I have no fear of you, impostor,</quote> you retort. <quote>I simply do not trust you to fight with honour.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>If you should win the duel, Lone Wolf, you will be returned to Tyso<ch.emdash/>of that you have my word. And the word of my master.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Both equally worthless,</quote> you reply, coolly.</p>
- <p>For a few moments you stare into your adversary<ch.apos/>s murderous eyes and sense that every word of his pledge is a lie. Yet you know that your options are limited. If you do not fight this duel, he will be sure to summon his minions to capture and kill you. There is nothing to gain by refusing his challenge and so, with reluctance, you accept.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304"><link-text>Turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect86">
- <meta><title>86</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrow soars over your shoulder and lodges itself in the tangle of vines that hang down in front of the cave mouth. You spring to your feet and swiftly your sharp eyes pinpoint the place where the arrow emerged from the jungle perimeter. When you magnify your vision you see the face of your enemy<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>partially hidden by a tree. He is cursing you, his teeth showing white against the deep green of the jungle. Then he sees that you have spotted him and he turns and runs, quickly disappearing into the dense undergrowth.</p>
- <p>Determined that you are not going to allow him to escape so easily, you rush forward and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect87">
- <meta><title>87</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Swiftly you place an arrow to your bow and take aim at the beast<ch.apos/>s left eye. It senses a threat to its sight, and instantly a layer of interlocking metal plates emerges from beneath its protruding forehead to protect its vision. You offer up a prayer to the God Kai to guide your aim, for the moving target you are attempting to hit is now no wider than the edge of a coin.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Weaponmastery with Bow, add 5 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect322">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 322</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect299">If it is 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 299</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect88">
- <meta><title>88</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caldar removes his hand from his sword and heaves a sigh of relief. <quote>Thank Ishir you<ch.apos/>ve returned to us, Grand Master. Perhaps now the evil that has befallen Sommerlund will be avenged.</quote></p>
- <p>The Baron summons his gaoler who unlocks the shackles that encase your wrists. Then, as the three of you hurriedly ascend from the castle dungeons to the Great Hall, Caldar and Banedon confirm the account of events that you extracted earlier from the gaoler. In addition to these facts you also learn that several days ago an angry mob, composed in the main of soldiers and citizens from Holmgard, marched upon the Kai Monastery. Firestone, the most senior of the New Order Kai, pleaded with the mob for calm. Fortunately they heeded his call and allowed him to send four Kai Masters to Tyso<ch.emdash/>the city where the impostor was last sighted. Firestone has ordered these four Kai to track down and slay the impostor as quickly as possible.</p>
- <p>You are in no doubt that this impostor is a formidable enemy, one who could easily prove more than a match for the four young Kai. Anxious for their safety, you request that you be allowed to ride to Tyso to join with them. Banedon is in agreement, but he suggests a swifter and surer way that you may reach Tyso. Moored to the tower of Baron Caldar<ch.apos/>s castle is Cloud Dancer<ch.emdash/>the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s skyship<ch.emdash/>which he places at your disposal. Gratefully you accept his generous offer.</p>
- <p>You are keen to leave for Tyso without further delay, but before you depart, Baron Caldar offers you the chance to equip yourself with weapons and stores from his well-stocked armoury.</p>
- <choice idref="sect149">If you wish to accept the Baron<ch.apos/>s offer, <link-text>turn to 149</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you decide to decline his offer, <link-text>turn to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect89">
- <meta><title>89</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your valiant efforts, you are unable to revive your mount and it dies of its wounds before reaching the ground. Unfortunately, you become entangled in its trailing wings and are unable to save yourself before the giant dragonfly smashes into the rim of the moat surrounding the tower. Death is mercifully swift.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your duel end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect90">
- <meta><title>90</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You force your way through the dense tangle of plants and grasses and soon reach the place where Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane lay in wait for you. The foliage around this hiding place has been carefully arranged, which suggests to you that he must have spent some considerable time setting his ambush. Yet there is also evidence of a hasty retreat. Lying on the ground behind a tree you discover 2 Arrows and a Dagger (if you wish to take one or more of these, remember to make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>Determined to stay on his trail while it is still fresh, you leave this hide and press deeper into the jungle in pursuit of your enemy. However, you have penetrated less than twenty yards into the undergrowth when his trail becomes indistinct.</p>
- <choice idref="sect246">If you possess the Discipline of Grand Pathsmanship, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 246</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect91">
- <meta><title>91</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Luckily, this acid-spitter has emptied its sac of corrosive venom and you are able to make good your escape from the hall without being spat upon as you leave. You reach the door and discover it is unlocked. Without hesitation, you pull it open and hurry through into the hall beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect220"><link-text>Turn to 220</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect92">
- <meta><title>92</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The broken buttress and the rope plummet into the fissure and are lost when they hit an underground river far below. Steel Hand swings one-handedly from the ceiling yet he manages to maintain his grip, despite being showered with loose rocks and dust. You command him to return and he obeys readily.</p>
- <p>As soon as Steel Hand is back on solid ground, you praise his skill and his brave effort. Only ill luck thwarted him. He offers to try again but you say that it is your turn<ch.emdash/>he has already proved his courage. Blazer offers you his rope and you accept it, then you walk along the edge of the fissure until you reach the wall. You find it easy to ascend the rough surface and work your way across to a point directly above the fissure. From here you fix the rope to a secure beam and cast the other end to your companions waiting below. One by one you watch them swing across the void and, when all have crossed safely, you untie the rope and make your way over to the far side to join them.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, my lords,</quote> you say, as you jump effortlessly down from the wall, <quote>we must press on. We<ch.apos/>ve a trail to find.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect93">
- <meta><title>93</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You try to evade the crackling light that speeds towards you from the muzzle of the warrior<ch.apos/>s spear, but the wounds and fatigue you have sustained conspire to dull your reactions. You are hit in the side by this white-hot beam and hurled high into the air. Suddenly an explosion of white light obliterates your senses and, in a horrifying instant, the light that is your life is snuffed out.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your duel with Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane ends here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect94">
- <meta><title>94</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your Grand Mastery skills, you conjure a fog from the surface of the slime which rapidly fills the lower level of the vault. You hear the angry, rasping voices of the creatures echoing inside the pot as they curse the fog which is obscuring their view of the vault floor. Under cover of the vapour, you enter the vault and wade silently through the slime towards the far exit. You have just passed beneath the pot when suddenly a volley of bone arrows comes whistling down from above.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect266">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 266</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect95">
- <meta><title>95</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This passage ends at a door crafted from sheeted silver inset with circles of iron. It has no handle and there appears to be no lock. You try pushing against it but to no avail: it refuses to open. Then you notice a small slit cut into the frame of the door and, when you run your fingers across it, you detect the tell-tale vibrations of an electrical lock.</p>
- <choice idref="sect159">If you possess an Iron Disc, <link-text>turn to 159</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect143">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 143</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect96">
- <meta><title>96</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You muster your psychic defences and construct a wall around your mind to protect yourself from this agonizing mental assault. Your strategy is effective although the effort it requires depletes your reserves of strength (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>This psychic assault has been one of the worst you have ever experienced. You have survived, but your Kai senses tell you that your ordeal has not ended; it has only just begun. You force open your eyes and look with dread at the terrible threat confronting you now.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect97">
- <meta><title>97</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of the arrows grazes your tight forearm and gouges a furrow of skin from the top of your right thigh. You stifle a cry, but the intense pain that grips your injured limbs warns you at once that the tip of the arrow was tainted with poison.</p>
- <p>Your innate healing skills counter the poison before it can do its deadly work, but your body<ch.apos/>s defences draw heavily on your reserves of strength and the curing process leaves you feeling weak and light-headed: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">To continue, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect98">
- <meta><title>98</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Come, Grand Master. You<ch.apos/>re going home,</quote> she says, and she takes you by the hand and leads you to the middle of the banquet hall, to a place directly opposite the great fireplace. <ch.apos/>But first we must make preparations for the journey.<ch.apos/></p>
- <p>Alyss then proceeds to remove an amulet from around the throat of your slain adversary. She presses it into your palm and tells you to put it on immediately. (Record this Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane Amulet, which you wear on a chain around your neck. You must discard another Special Item in its favour if you already possess the maximum permissible.)</p>
- <p>Having done as she requests, she then touches her finger to the two amulets that you now wear, and she smiles.</p>
- <p><quote>Good, good,</quote> she enthuses, <quote>these baubles will take care of you.</quote></p>
- <p>She then takes a piece of limestone from her pocket and proceeds to draw a pentagram on the floor of the hail. She has half-completed the complicated design when suddenly she becomes agitated.</p>
- <p><quote>Must hurry,</quote> she mumbles, <quote>must, must hurry.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly the fire in the hearth flares brightly. The flames begin to grow and whirl and slowly change colour.</p>
- <p><quote>It<ch.apos/>s no good!</quote> cries Aylss, tearful with frustration. Angrily she casts her chunk of crumbling limestone at the roaring flames and then leaps to her feet and comes rushing to your side. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s too late!</quote> she screams, her voice now barely audible above the unnatural crackling of the fire, <quote>Naar is summoning his champion!.</quote></p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect99">
- <meta><title>99</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shockwave from the blast sends you tumbling backwards into the chamber. Moments later something heavy falls across your legs, pinning you to the ground. You reach down to pull yourself free and discover that the object that is lying across your legs is Black Hawk. Dazed and trembling, you roll his limp body over and then hurriedly check to see if he is still breathing. Thankfully you discover that he is alive, although he has sustained serious injuries. His hand and sword arm are badly burnt and he is in a state of deep shock.</p>
- <p>Using your Magnakai curing skills, you are able to stabilize his condition and bring him out of shock (in doing so you expend 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). As you help him to his feet you look around and see that the others have been knocked fiat by the blast. They too are now struggling to pull themselves to their feet. Fortunately their physical injuries are minor; their innate Kai skills appear to have spared them from serious injury. However, you sense that your inability to detect that the wall was an explosive illusion has taken its toll on their confidence.</p>
- <p><quote>Our prey is far more cunning than I feared,</quote> you say, reproachfully, <quote>but we are Kai and we shall rise to the challenge. Our enemy possesses strong magic and he is capable of masking it well. Yet he chooses to use it to wound and weaken our party, not to kill us. Why this should be I do not know. But from now on we cannot entirely trust our senses to protect us. We must proceed with the utmost caution.</quote></p>
- <p>Beyond where the illusory north wall once stood, you can now see a small antechamber which is wreathed in acrid blue smoke. Gradually this smoke dissipates to reveal a shallow plinth upon which lies a bronze urn. This heavy object rests on its side and a quantity of pale grey ash has spilled from its hinged lid. Cautiously you approach the urn and see that there is an inscription engraved on its side. From this ancient script you learn that the ashes are the last remains of Baroness Garrulen, the wife of Hul<ch.emdash/>third Baron of Tyso. Glinting half-buried in the ash, you notice a ring encrusted with crimson gemstones (if you wish to keep this Ruby Ring, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item).</p>
- <p>You are righting the urn on its plinth when you hear Steel Hand calling you. He has found something among the rubble which litters the floor at the rear of the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35"><link-text>Turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect100">
- <meta><title>100</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are eager to confront your enemy, but you are wary of walking into a trap. At first glance he appears to be alone in this circular hall, but then you notice something curious about the hail itself. At the four points of the compass there are rails attached to the walls. Small horizontal platforms are attached to these rails and they move along them in a continuous procession. At the north and the south these platforms ascend through holes in the ceiling; at the west and east the platforms descend through similar holes and continue through other holes cut in the floor. You suspect them to be elevators and your suspicions are confirmed when suddenly an armoured warrior appears; he is standing on a descending platform and he passes through the hall and continues travelling downwards to a level somewhere below.</p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is standing with his back to you and is examining a panel of glass set into the chamber wall. You magnify your vision and you see that the panel displays an illuminated view of the avenue that approaches the tower. Your adversary is watching and waiting for your approach; clearly he is unaware that you have already gained access to the tower.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, something alerts him to your presence and he spins on his heel, his dark eyes blazing with a mixture of fear and loathing. He sees you at the entrance to the hall and immediately he leaps upon a rising north platform in an attempt to escape from you. Determined not to let him get away again, you enter the hall and jump onto a rising south platform. As the platform passes through the ceiling of the hall, it carries you .up a tall open shaft. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is on the far side of the shaft wall, some twenty feet above. You can see his face peering over the lip of the platform on which he is standing. He mouths something that you suspect is a curse, but then he points at you with an extended hand and a crackling arc of crimson fire leaps from his fingers and comes twisting down the shaft towards your face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect341">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 341</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect153">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 153</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect101">
- <meta><title>101</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect several footprints in the loamy mulch, all of them virtually identical to your own. They have been partially covered by leaves and there are many narrow channels in the soft soil, made unmistakably by human fingers. Your suspicions are immediately aroused; the tracks are so poorly concealed, it is as if someone wanted you to find them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect258">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 258</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect102">
- <meta><title>102</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself forwards to avoid the missile, yet it dips in mid-air and carves a furrow across your shoulder blades as you slide along the frost-encrusted floor: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your adversary sniggers when he hears your cry of pain. Yet, despite the burning agony of your wound, you scramble to your feet and level your weapon defiantly at the darkened stairway. But Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is no longer crouching near the steps<ch.emdash/>he is fast ascending them. Calling upon your innate healing skills, you staunch the blood that is trickling freely from your back and hurry towards the staircase in pursuit of your hated foe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect103">
- <meta><title>103</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lower yourself carefully into the hollow stem and soon discover that it drops away very steeply. It is a vertical tube for most of its length, yet you are able to slow your rate of descent by grabbing hold of tiny tendrils which protrude from the lining of the stem wall. As you get nearer to its base, the stem wall becomes semi-transparent and slick with moisture. You press your face to this warm surface and you are able to discern other stems. They look like the trunks of trees in a dense green forest. Then you look down to see that the stem of this plant is descending into darkness. The darkness begins at the point where the stem passes below ground level. You decide to stop at this point for you have no desire to explore the roots of this strange flower.</p>
- <p>Carefully you examine the fabric of the semi-transparent stem. If you can force your way through this tough plant wall, you will be able to escape from your prison-like tube.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you possess a bladed weapon, or a bladed Special Item, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you possess Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you possess none of the above, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect104">
- <meta><title>104</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In response to your prayer, you feel a warming sensation radiating through your body and your mind, leaving you physically and mentally refreshed and alert: restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> paints.</p>
- <p>Confident that the divine Gods of Good are watching over you in this moment of truth, you throw open the doors and stride boldly into the hall beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect105">
- <meta><title>105</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having weighed the risks and options, you decide to make a dash for the exit on the far side of the vault. You are confident that the combination of surprise, speed, and camouflage will be enough to see you safely across the vault before your would-be ambushers have a chance to react to your presence.</p>
- <p>Taking a deep breath, you launch yourself into the vault. You have covered barely ten feet of the floor when you hear the angry, rasping voices of the creatures echoing from inside the hanging cauldron. You are passing beneath this iron pot when suddenly a volley of bone arrows comes whistling down from above.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance and Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect97">If your total score is now 8 or less, <link-text>turn to 97</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect180">If it is 9 or higher, <link-text>turn to 180</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect106">
- <meta><title>106</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Silently you unshoulder your bow and notch an arrow to the bowstring. Then, with cold precision, you take aim at the back of your enemy<ch.apos/>s head and release your arrow. A split second before the shaft reaches its target, Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane senses danger and throws himself to the floor. The fire-hardened tip of your deadly missile pierces his thigh, wounding him badly, but not so as to prevent him from wrenching the shaft from his leg and making a hasty escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect107">
- <meta><title>107</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This narrow passageway leads to a vault littered with scraps of cloth, rodent skins, bones, and twisted clumps of dry vegetation. Out of this carpet of debris a crude, nest-like hollow has been fashioned. The glint of burnished gold prompts you to investigate the nest more closely and, to your surprise, you discover a valuable Gold Cup (Special Item) entangled among its twigs and grasses.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you sense movement directly overhead. You glance upwards and find yourself looking into a brick-lined vent which ascends all the way to the surface. Descending this chimney at an alarming speed is a Bangrol<ch.emdash/>an acquisitive and aggressive breed of Sommlending sea-eagle. This particular bird is far from pleased that you have disturbed its secret nest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect139">If you possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 139</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect217">If you do not possess this skill, <link-text>turn to 217</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect108">
- <meta><title>108</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you emerge from the cave mouth, the oppressive jungle heat hits you like a battering ram. Your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus automatically regulates your body temperature, making the heat bearable, yet even so it comes as something of a shock that any living creature can exist in this hellish environment.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, the shock of the jungle heat is only the first of two nasty surprises that await you. The second is a barbed arrow that whistles from out of the dense foliage and comes speeding towards your forehead!</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess Kai-alchemy but have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect109">
- <meta><title>109</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow this torchlit tunnel as it snakes through the dungeon levels of this strange castle. A growing presentiment warns you that danger lies ahead and you pause to focus your Kai skills in an attempt to determine its exact nature. You cannot identify the threat, save that it is not a living entity.</p>
- <p>You draw your weapon and advance more cautiously now. As you turn a bend in this meandering passageway, a warrior appears from out of the gloom ahead. He is sheathed in plate armour and he clutches a sword and, at first sight, appears to be human. It is not until he steps a little closer that you see he has no neck: his visored helm hovers inches above his breastplate and is not connected to his torso.</p>
- <p>A pulse of green light illuminates the warrior<ch.apos/>s visor and suddenly a wave of powerful psychic energy hits you with terrific force.</p>
- <choice idref="sect181">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 181</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect265">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 265</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect110">
- <meta><title>110</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You attempt to subdue the giant serpent using your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, but the creature is resilient to mental suggestion and it resists your psychic command.</p>
- <p>You are now faced with a dilemma. In order to escape from this cavern you must either face the chained serpent in combat, or you can evade it by discovering some way of opening the portcullis so that you can go back the way you have come.</p>
- <choice idref="sect165">If you choose to face the creature in combat, <link-text>turn to 165</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect171">If you decide to attempt to open the portcullis, <link-text>turn to 171</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect111">
- <meta><title>111</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Alyss commands you to leave at once. The cocoon of light that surrounds her and the Moonstone is beginning to flicker with every blow it sustains from Kekataag<ch.apos/>s mighty axe. You sense that she cannot maintain her shield for very much longer.</p>
- <p>You heed her cry and race towards the swirling mouth of the Shadow Gate. But Naar is determined to launch one last desperate attempt to prevent you from escaping. You are within ten paces of the gate when two rubbery-limbed horrors emerge from the smoky walls and hurl themselves upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Cryopedeans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect112">
- <meta><title>112</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The fabled Moonstone was created many thousands of years ago by the god-like Shianti, whose presence upon Magnamund heralded the dawn of humanity. This wondrous artifact contains the combined might of all their magic and wisdom, the sum of all their knowledge. So significant was the creation of this artifact that all time on Magnamund is measured from the date of its creation. It had long been held that the Moonstone<ch.apos/>s location was a secret known only to the remnants of the Shianti, who dwell upon the Isle of Lorn in deepest Southern Magnamund, yet the evidence of your eyes tells you that this mystical stone of power has fallen into the hands of the Dark God.</p>
- <p>Suddenly the significance of the Moonstone becomes clear. Naar is using its legendary powers to generate Shadow Gates within the world of Magnamund, at locations and times of his own choosing. Such power has enabled him to send his loathsome champions to your home world, while the goodly forces of Kai and Ishir are held at bay, helpless to counter them. Only you and your Kai brethren have stood in the way of the onslaught of Naar<ch.apos/>s agents since the demise of his Darklords.</p>
- <p>The hideous form of the Dark God returns to the dais and settles there uneasily. Then a deep rumble fills the throne hail; it is the prelude to the voice of Naar.</p>
- <p><quote>You have done well, my champion,</quote> it booms.</p>
- <p><quote>Now I command you to return to accursed Sommerlund and finish my work. Prepare the way for my armies of night. At last this planet is mine for the taking. My victory is complete!</quote></p>
- <p>It is clear from his words that Naar is convinced that you are his champion<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>freshly returned from a duel in which Evil has triumphed. Suddenly you see Alyss emerge from the smoky wall less than a dozen paces behind Naar, yet the Dark God appears unaware of her presence. She appears calm and focused, and you sense that she is waiting for an auspicious moment to approach the plinth and take the Moonstone. With bated breath you watch as she inches closer and closer to the legendary stone. Then Naar shifts his gruesome bulk and she freezes.</p>
- <p><quote>Your return to Sommerlund will not be alone, Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. Kekataag the Avenger will accompany you. He has a mission of assassination to complete in Toran, at the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star.</quote></p>
- <p>Then the Dark God emits a high-pitched whistle and, moments later, a fearsome warrior answers the call. He emerges from the smoky wall and the floor shudders as he strides to the centre of the throne hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect183">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 183</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect113">
- <meta><title>113</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you shout the words of the Old Kingdom Battle spell <spell>Shield</spell> and make a swift circle in the air with your right hand. The crackling fire-bolt explodes against an invisible barrier which you have hurriedly brought into existence, and dissolves away in a shower of crimson sparks which are sucked into the depths of the shaft.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect114">
- <meta><title>114</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon all of your Kai camouflage skills to keep you hidden as you attempt to slip out of the tunnel unseen. However, your adversary has disciplines comparable to your own. He is watching the cave mouth like a hawk and your stealthy exit may not go unnoticed.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance and Grand Pathsmanship, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect105">If your total score is now 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect191">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 191</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect115">
- <meta><title>115</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You follow the tunnel as it ascends towards the surface. A dot of daylight appears in the distance which, as you climb towards it, becomes a cluster of bright sunbeams filtering through a curtain of vines. This fringe of emerald streamers conceals the cave mouth entrance to this tunnel. The tunnel itself becomes increasingly humid as you get nearer to the exit. Its dry earth floor has gradually transformed into a slick and treacherous surface which is alive with beetles and centipedes, some as long as daggers.</p>
- <p>Upon reaching the cave mouth, you stop to peer through the hanging vines. Outside, in the fiercely tropical heat, you can see a dense jungle sweltering beneath a blazing sun. It extends in every direction towards a jagged horizon of volcanic mountain peaks. Then your eye is caught by something small and metallic glinting in the mulch of vegetation that carpets the entrance. You pick it up and discover that it is a brass button, engraved with a sun motif. It is identical to the buttons which adorn your own tunic, none of which are missing. You deduce that it has come from the tunic of your adversary, but you cannot be sure whether it was lost accidentally or was placed here deliberately for you to find.</p>
- <choice idref="sect101">If you wish to search the entrance for further clues to the whereabouts of your enemy, <link-text>turn to 101</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you choose to leave the tunnel and explore the jungle beyond, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect116">
- <meta><title>116</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You regard the distant vent with trepidation. It looks to be so high and so far away that you fear an escape from this world may truly be impossible. In your growing despair, you call upon your divine mentor<ch.emdash/>the God Kai<ch.emdash/>for inspiration and, as if in answer to your prayer, you experience a sudden moment of revelation in which a bold plan takes form in your mind<ch.apos/>s eye.</p>
- <p>Using your innate Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control, you focus on one of the smaller dragonflies that is circling above the fecund blossoms lining the lip of the gorge. Instantly it responds to your silent command and comes soaring down to land in a nearby clearing. Like a tame and obedient horse, this winged creature waits patiently for you to clamber upon its back. Then, once you are in position, it takes to the air with such speed that your stomach feels as if it has been physically torn from your body. Several minutes pass before you fully recover from the shock of the stunningly swift take-off, and are able to sit back and enjoy the spectacular aerial views of the gorge.</p>
- <p>Using your palms and your knees, you quickly discover that you are able to steer the dragonfly towards the distant vent. Unfortunately, your ascent does not go entirely unnoticed. You are close to a mile above the canyon when suddenly your insectile steed attracts the unwanted attention of a larger predatory dragonfly. This predator is bigger and faster than your encumbered mount and, as it circles around him, it is clear that it is simply biding its time, awaiting the best moment to strike.</p>
- <p>You draw your weapon and tighten your grip on your mount<ch.apos/>s scaly back as the predatory dragonfly swoops down to make its initial attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Golasyx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is attempting to stab you with the tip of its spear-like proboscis as it swoops past, therefore you need only fight this combat for one round.</p>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you inflict an equal or greater <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss upon the enemy in this single round of combat, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect192">If you sustain a greater <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss than your enemy, <link-text>turn to 192</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect117">
- <meta><title>117</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nimbly you dodge aside and avoid being hit by this creature<ch.apos/>s drool. At first you think nothing of it, but then you look to see where it landed and you notice that this trail of saliva is melting the flagstones.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to attack the creature that attempted to spit acid in your face, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you choose to evade this creature, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect118">
- <meta><title>118</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Vigorously you attack the sticky strands of the net with your magical sword, cleaving through them with unexpected ease. They shrivel at the touch of your golden blade and drop in smouldering heaps onto the floor of the tunnel. Within a matter of seconds you have cut your way through and are able to continue your pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect119">
- <meta><title>119</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You and the others watch as Steel Hand slings his coil of rope over his shoulder and commences his climb. The rough wall of this vault offers many handholds and he is able to progress swiftly to the ceiling and work his way across to the middle of the chamber, directly above the fissure. Whilst holding himself in position with his left hand, he attempts to fix one end of the rope around an exposed stone beam with his right. On completing the task he ties off the rope and tugs it to make sure it is secure. There is a loud crack! and you gasp with horror as the buttress to which he has fixed his rope suddenly crumbles and breaks away from the ceiling.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect92">If the number you have chosen is 0<ch.endash/>7, <link-text>turn to 92</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect268">If it is 8 or 9, <link-text>turn to 268</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect120">
- <meta><title>120</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>At the end of the passage you discover another tunnel that leads off to the left. The walls and ceiling of this adjacent passageway are dripping wet, indicating that it passes directly under the stream. You stride along its narrow confines, your shoulders grazing the muddy walls as you advance up a flight of steps which lead to an archway supported by thick wooden beams. Beyond the arch lies a large subterranean chamber that is daubed and decorated with runes and evil insignia. It is a primitive temple and it radiates an aura of evil so vile and malicious that the thought of entering makes your skin crawl.</p>
- <p>On the far side of this unholy place, you see a stone altar standing before a huge boulder that has been crudely chiselled to resemble a grinning human skull. An eerie green glow pulsates from the eye sockets of this great skull-rock, and a mist swirls from its open jaw. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane stands before the altar, an arrogant sneer spreading slowly across his face.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.apos/>d expected better sport from you, Lone Wolf,</quote> he chides. <quote>You disappoint me<ch.ellips/> but no matter. Such easy triumph proves the worthiness of my master<ch.apos/>s cause. I bid you farewell, Lone Wolf. A final farewell.</quote></p>
- <p>And with these chilling words ringing in your ears, your enemy stretches out both of his hands and takes hold of two iron staves that protrude from the ground on either side of the skull-rock<ch.apos/>s jaw. He jerks them out of their settings and casts them into the centre of the temple. Then, with a patronising salute, he turns and enters the open jaw, swiftly disappearing into the swirling mist.</p>
- <p>The dull boom of an explosion somewhere in the rock above the ceiling makes your heart miss a beat. Moments later, the walls begin to shake and the floor shudders violently beneath your feet, throwing you off balance. Rock and earth cascade from the roof and fissures tear open the ground. With fear running ice cold in your veins, you begin a desperate race to reach the mouth of the skull-rock before the entire roof collapses and you are buried alive in this doomed temple.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked. For every level of Kai rank you have so far attained, above the rank of Sun Knight, add 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect222">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 222</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect321">If it is 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 321</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect205">If it is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 205</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If it is 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect121">
- <meta><title>121</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect that the fluid which the creatures are drinking is highly flammable. Armed with this knowledge, you realize that if you were able to set fire to the fluid in the trough, it would cause such a panic among the creatures that, in the ensuing chaos, you would very likely be able to reach the distant archway without being seen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect292">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 292</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect314">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 314</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect122">
- <meta><title>122</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sudden and unexpected ferocity of this psychic assault makes you fall to your knees and clasp your head in both hands. The pain is worming its way deep into your mind, causing your body to convulse with psychic shock. Dimly, through a red haze, you sense that the Platinum Amulet you are wearing around your neck affords you some defence against this attack, although it cannot protect you completely.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai mastership that you have attained above the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked. (The maximum you are permitted to add is 7.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect16">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect96">If it is 4<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 96</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect315">If it is 10 or higher, <link-text>turn to 315</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect123">
- <meta><title>123</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you retreat a few paces from the shrieking horde to unsheathe a weapon, you glance towards the plinth to see how Alyss is faring. She has drawn upon her powers to create a cocoon of energy to protect both her vulnerable body and the legendary Moonstone. Kekataag assaults this glowing shield with maniacal ferocity, his great two-handed axe drawing fiery sparks with every mighty blow. You can sense from the hatred which blazes in his supernatural eyes that he and Alyss are old enemies.</p>
- <p>Her bravery inspires you to fight like a demon to reach the Shadow Gate and escape to your home world. You are determined that her efforts to save you will not be in vain.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Spawn horde</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect124">
- <meta><title>124</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The great portal closes behind you with little noise, save the serpent-like hiss of escaping air. Inside, a cavernous plaza awaits you, crafted entirely of steel, glass, silver and iron. Towering girders arc over your head, buttressed upon each other to support the many upper levels of this stupendous edifice.</p>
- <p>The plaza is vast and alien in design, and it is virtually deserted. You count no more than six armoured warriors, some so far distant that you have to magnify your vision to be sure that they are what they seem to be. Your arrival goes unchallenged and you waste no time in attempting to locate your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail. As expected, you find traces of his tracks close to the portal. They lead you to an archway which opens into a steel-lined chamber that has two exits: one to the left, the other to the right. Here the tracks become indistinct and you are unable to determine which way Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane went from here.</p>
- <choice idref="sect243">If you wish to explore the left exit, <link-text>turn to 243</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect254">If you choose to explore the right exit, <link-text>turn to 254</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect125">
- <meta><title>125</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You instruct your Kai comrades to search the chamber<ch.apos/>s four walls for hidden levers or secret panels, while you busy yourself with a careful examination of Baron Garrulen<ch.apos/>s sarcophagus. You attempt to lift its heavy stone lid but without success; it is sealed tight by the grime of centuries. You are considering ways to prise it open when Black Hawk discovers something unusual about the north wall. He signals to you to come and take a closer look.</p>
- <p>Your experienced eye immediately detects two faint hairline cracks in its granite surface. They run vertically from the floor to the ceiling and appear to reveal the outline of a secret panel.</p>
- <p><quote>Good work, Black Hawk. I<ch.apos/>d wager the impostor escaped this way,</quote> you say, as you scan the entire wall for some means of opening the secret panel. When no obvious way can be found, Black Hawk volunteers to force it open.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you decide to allow Black Hawk to attempt to force open the secret panel, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect286">If you choose to try and open it yourself, <link-text>turn to 286</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect126">
- <meta><title>126</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One arrow passes wide and shatters against the ceiling. But the other shaft clips your left leg and opens a painful gash above your knee: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>On reaching the balcony you speak the words which negate the effects of the <spell>Teleport</spell> spell, and, the moment your feet touch the ground, you hurry into the archway beyond.</p>
- <p>Use of the Teleport spell costs you a further 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Remember to make the necessary adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">To continue, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect127">
- <meta><title>127</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe a hand weapon and brace your back against the door as the great metallic beast comes leaping through the darkness with its iron jaw set wide.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mech-wulf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect128">
- <meta><title>128</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The damp subterranean tunnel meanders for nearly a mile before entering a cavern which is lit by rays of insipid sunlight, permeating through holes in its root-entangled ceiling. Your natural pathsmanship warns you that the slimy water is deep at the centre of this cavern and, as you enter, you take extra care where you tread.</p>
-
- <p>Thirty yards opposite there is a sloping tunnel which appears to ascend towards the surface; dim light illuminates its dry earthen floor. You approach it, keeping near to the cavern wall to avoid the deep water, but you have only taken a few paces when a sudden noise jars your nerves. With a dull boom, a concealed portcullis falls from the ceiling to seal off the tunnel through which you have come. Moments later, swirling eddies form in the water at the centre of the cavern and, with a hissing splash, a huge snaky head breaks through the surface and rises up to scrape the ceiling. Around its banded neck there is a collar of iron which is attached to a heavy chain. The chain disappears below the surface, keeping the creature a prisoner of this cavern. You gasp as you look into the eyes of this gigantic serpent for they radiate waves of evil that seem to place a chill in your very soul.</p>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you possess the Discipline of Animal Mastery, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect208">If you possess Animal Mastery, but have yet to attain this rank, <link-text>turn to 208</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect110">If you do not possess Animal Mastery, <link-text>turn to 110</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect129">
- <meta><title>129</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step away from the bodies of your slain enemies and collapse against the wall of the vault, gasping for breath. As you slowly recover, you notice that one of the reptilians has a leather pouch slung around its neck. You kneel down and tear open the pouch to discover that it contains a small Iron Disc. A cursory search of his dead companion reveals a Dagger, a Sword, and a small stone phial containing a Black Potion (properties unknown).</p>
- <p>The size and shape of the disc suddenly triggers an image in your memory. You take the disc and insert it between the gemstone squares which operate the portal lock. There is an audible click!, and the disc reappears at the slot (if you wish to keep this Iron Disc, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item). Seconds later, the heavy portal begins to rise. You wait until it has risen a few feet and you are sure that no enemy awaits you on the other side, then you duck under the iron plate and hurry into the tunnel beyond. As you run, you hear the portal slamming shut behind you with a dull reverberating boom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect130">
- <meta><title>130</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you key-in the correct number, it activates the detonator lock and the bomb ceases to function. You wipe a trickle of sweat from your brow as you look at the illuminated display, for it shows that there were only five seconds to go before the bomb would have exploded. Carefully you set the device down on the floor and then hurry to the nearest dragonfly pen where you use your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control to subdue its hostile occupant. The creature reluctantly submits to your will and allows you to climb upon its back, It has no saddle, and so you are forced to grip its scaly spine as you urge it skywards in pursuit of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane.</p>
- <p>As you emerge through the open steel roof of the tower, you catch a fleeting glimpse of the rainswept city far below. Then, in the next instant, you plunge into the base of the thick black storm clouds which keep this alien city forever in shadow.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect131">
- <meta><title>131</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The inside of the tomb is a cold and sombre place, devoid of all life. Its featureless walls glisten with rivulets of moisture and the air is dank and evil smelling, like the breath of some cold-blooded reptile. At its centre, where one would have expected to find the remains of the nobleman who long ago was incarcerated here, there is instead a yawning shaft. An ancient bronze ladder is fixed to the shaft wall which descends to an unknown depth.</p>
- <p>Using your Kai senses, you scan the tomb and detect lingering traces of the impostor. His trail leads directly to the ladder. After satisfying yourself that your quarry has left behind no unwelcome surprises, you step onto the ladder and begin a slow descent into the shaft.</p>
- <p>The ladder ends inside a larger stone chamber, one hundred feet below the tomb. Here you discover a granite coffin embellished with runes and ancient Sommlending script. As you wait for your Kai companions to complete their descent, you read enough of the script to learn that you have found the final resting place of Hul Garrulen, the third Baron of Tyso. Your senses confirm that you are on the trail of the impostor, yet there appear to be no other exits from this chamber, other than the shaft by which you entered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect290">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 290</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect125">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai Grand Mastery, <link-text>turn to 125</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect132">
- <meta><title>132</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your divine blade from its scabbard and a halo of golden light irradiates the throne hall. Naar bellows with a terrible rage. He is mortally aghast that such a holy weapon should be unsheathed in his presence, in his inner sanctum, and in his anger he summons a host of rubbery-limbed horrors from the smoky walls of his evil domain.</p>
- <choice idref="sect201">If you wish to fight these creatures, <link-text>turn to 201</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect162">If you wish to attempt to evade them by entering the Shadow Gate, <link-text>turn to 162</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect133">
- <meta><title>133</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your eagle eyes pinpoint the place where the arrow emerged from the jungle perimeter and, when you magnify your vision, you see the face of your enemy<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>partially hidden by a tree. He laughs, his teeth showing white against the dark green of the jungle, and then he springs to his feet and disappears into the undergrowth.</p>
- <p>Determined that you are not going to allow him to escape so easily, you break into a run and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect134">
- <meta><title>134</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cursing your luck, you abandon the lock and turn to face the metal beast. The creature is loping towards you now, the rhythmic squeal of its metal joints counterpointed by the whirring clack of its great iron jaw. You bite back your fear and brace yourself as the beast gets ready to pounce.</p>
- <choice idref="sect87">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 87</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect127">If you do not possess this weapon or skill, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 127</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect135">
- <meta><title>135</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The gigantic insect detects movement where it is expecting none and immediately it senses a threat to its safety. Swiftly it retracts its proboscis and rises several feet, taking its vulnerable belly beyond the reach of your sword arm. It hovers motionlessly for a few seconds, its glinting fly-like eyes watching you intently, then it emits a high-pitched shriek and at once you know that it is getting ready to attack.</p>
- <choice idref="sect178">If you possess Animal Mastery, and wish to use it in an attempt to repel this creature<ch.apos/>s imminent attack, <link-text>turn to 178</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect311">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 311</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect136">
- <meta><title>136</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With stunning grace and swiftness, you unshoulder your bow and let loose two hastily aimed arrows at the reptilians. Yet, despite the haste of your shots, both shafts find their mark. They skewer the horny skulls of these cold-blooded ambushers, killing them both in an instant. (Remember to reduce your total number of arrows by 2.)</p>
- <p>Free now from the immediate threat of attack, you shoulder your bow and turn to examine the sealed portal for a lever or some other means to make it rise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect202"><link-text>Turn to 202</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect137">
- <meta><title>137</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This passage ascends by a slope to a chamber that is lined with sheets of a glassy, jet-black mineral. A flight of iron steps ascends from here to a landing where a circular stair continues the ascent to the levels above. On a shelf beside the opening to the circular stairway there is a steel cage containing a small primate. It reminds you of the kakarmi, the wild primates who inhabit the forests around the Kai Monastery. This creature seems to recognize you, and as you approach the stairs, it begins to shriek with fear. Rather than risk drawing unwanted attention to yourself, you use your innate skills of animal control to calm and subdue the frightened creature.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46">If you wish to release this creature from its cage, <link-text>turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect287">If you choose to ignore it and continue on your way up the circular stairs, <link-text>turn to 287</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect138">
- <meta><title>138</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You detect that the fluid which the creatures are drinking from the fountain is highly flammable. Armed with this knowledge, you place an arrow to your bow and take aim at the stone trough. Moments before you release your bowstring, you utter the words of the Old Kingdom battle spell <spell>Flameshaft</spell> and the tip of your missile flares brightly with a crackling magical flame. You launch the arrow and watch as it arcs into the trough. With a deafening wumph!, the liquid ignites to form a blazing fireball which greedily consumes the creatures who are gathered around the lip of the trough.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect139">
- <meta><title>139</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you focus your Discipline at the attacking bird and command it to stop.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank that you have attained above the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have chosen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect241">If your total is now 7 or less, <link-text>turn to 241</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect307">If it is 8 or higher, <link-text>turn to 307</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect140">
- <meta><title>140</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you pass into the mouth of the skull-rock you are engulfed by a dense fog that is icy-cold and impenetrable to your sight and senses. You strain your Kai skills to aid your pursuit of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, but all to no avail; this ivory-white fog hides everything, swamping and distorting all sense of time and direction.</p>
- <p>You keep moving, forcing yourself onwards even though the surface beneath your feet has become viscous and uncertain. After what seems like an eternity spent wandering through this cloudy limbo, you gradually feel the ground hardening and sense that the impenetrable fog is beginning to dissipate. Patches of grey appear in the creamy whiteness. Then the fog dissolves completely and you find yourself standing in the middle of a rubble-strewn street, surrounded by the bleak and derelict dwellings of a decaying, alien city.</p>
- <p>It is the dead of night and a fine drizzle falls from a storm-laden sky, dampening this dreary landscape. Everywhere you look you see the hollow shells of buildings. They are heaped with mounds of broken stone, twisted rusty iron, and shattered glass. There are no trees, no blades of grass, no animals here. Everything is cold, grey, and dead.</p>
- <p>Suddenly you sense a blur of movement beside a mountain of rubble which blocks the end of the street. You focus upon it, magnifying your vision to penetrate the damp gloom, and you are rewarded with a fleeting glimpse of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. He is running away. You hurry after him and, as you crest the mound, you see him entering the shattered entrance to a three-storey dwelling close by.</p>
- <choice idref="sect324"><link-text>Turn to 324</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your weapon and climb the rickety shelves in order to be able to reach this elusive acid-spitter. Despite its ungainly shape, it proves to be adept at evading your first few blows until you manage to corner it at the far end of the top shelf.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Caq</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">32</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">20</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect328">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 328</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect142">
- <meta><title>142</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow decapitates the Bangrol and the two sundered halves of its body fall limply to the debris-strewn floor. Hurriedly you wipe clean your weapon and re-sheathe it, then you motion your companions to follow as you leave this chamber by a tunnel in its south wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect298"><link-text>Turn to 298</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect143">
- <meta><title>143</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unable to open this portal, you turn around and retrace your steps back to the junction and then explore the other passageway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect144">
- <meta><title>144</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you retreat back along the stamen until you are out of harm<ch.apos/>s way. Blindly the angry Solyx stabs with its proboscis, splintering stamen tips and drenching you with showers of sticky pollen. Fortunately, the span of its gigantic wings and the narrowness of the plant<ch.apos/>s corolla conspire to prevent it from reaching deeper into the plant, and you are able to escape without sustaining further injury.</p>
- <p>When you reach the bowl of the corolla once more, you lower yourself into the hollow stem and soon discover that it drops away very steeply. It is a vertical tube for most of its length, yet you are able to slow your rate of descent by grabbing hold of tiny tendrils which protrude from the lining of the stem wall. As you get nearer to its base, the stem wall becomes semi-transparent and slick with moisture. You press your face to this warm surface and you are able to discern other stems beyond. They look like the trunks of trees in a dense green forest. Then you look down to see that the stem of this plant is descending into darkness. The darkness begins at the point where the stem passes below ground level. You decide to stop at this point for you have no desire to explore the roots of this huge flower.</p>
- <p>Carefully you examine the fabric of the semi-transparent stem. If you can force your way through this tough plant wall, you will be able to escape from your prison-like tube.</p>
- <choice idref="sect332">If you possess a bladed weapon, or a bladed Special Item, <link-text>turn to 332</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you possess Kai-alchemy and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect279">If you possess Magi-magic and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 279</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you possess none of the above, or choose not to use them, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect145">
- <meta><title>145</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lose your grip and slip back into the water. As you make a second attempt to climb out, you feel the creature grab your legs. Swiftly he pulls you beneath the surface and drags you down towards the cellar floor, twenty feet below the surface. You are left in no doubt that this beast wants to drown you before it feasts on your flesh!</p>
- <choice idref="sect194">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Thane, or higher, <link-text>turn to 194</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect237">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 237</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect146">
- <meta><title>146</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You step out from beneath the leaf under which you have been hiding and focus on the distant vent. Carefully you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> that Guildmaster Banedon taught you many years ago, and moments later you feel yourself floating upwards through the air towards the apex of this gigantic cavern.</p>
- <p>The spell frees you from the grip of gravity and enables you to soar towards the cavern<ch.apos/>s roof. However, you are unable to control the angle of your ascent and in order to steer yourself towards the vent, you must try to position yourself in one of the thermal currents which are rising from the canyon floor.</p>
- <p>After some great effort you manage to locate a benign thermal which carries you slowly towards the distant vent. Unfortunately, you are not the only creature enjoying the hospitality of this rising current. You have soared close to a mile above the canyon when suddenly you attract the unwanted attention of a gigantic dragonfly. Anxious to defend yourself in case it should attack, you draw a weapon and wait with bated breath as it circles around your floating form.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If your total is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect244">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 244</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect147">
- <meta><title>147</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Naar summons forth a shrieking horde of horrors from the smoky walls of his throne room. These hideous bat-winged creatures resemble deformed human brains that trail skeletal appendages. You retreat a few paces before them, in order to unsheathe your weapon, and then with your battle cry on your lips<ch.emdash/><quote>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</quote><ch.emdash/>you launch yourself into their midst and fight like a demon.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Crypt Spawn horde</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">36</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect111">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 111</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect148">
- <meta><title>148</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The once-grand doors of this hall no longer hang upon their hinges. They have been torn down and now lie twisted and rusted together, partially blocking the entrance. After checking to make sure that your adversary has not left any unwelcome surprises, you clamber over these ruined doors and begin a cautious exploration of the hall<ch.apos/>s gloomy interior.</p>
- <p>The cavernous ground floor was long ago gutted by fire. All that remains of its contents now lie buried beneath blackened timbers and twisted iron beams. Metal chains hang in festoons from the buckled roof girders, dripping icicles of rust. They sway and squeal eerily in the wind, sending shivers coursing down your spine.</p>
- <p>You detect nothing of interest in the debris and are about to abandon your search when suddenly you hear something unexpected<ch.emdash/>a dull thump. The sound came from below the ground. Drawing upon your Magnakai hunting skills, you peer through a hole in the ruined floor and detect something large and warm-blooded. It is moving away, towards the rear of the hall<ch.apos/>s cellar level.</p>
- <choice idref="sect168">If you wish to investigate your discovery further, <link-text>turn to 168</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you choose to abandon your search and leave the hall, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect149">
- <meta><title>149</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Caldar instructs one of his guards to escort you to the castle armoury, where you are encouraged to take whatever you need. From among the many racks of fine weapons and equipment, the following items catch your eye:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Arrows (6)</li>
- <li>Quiver (counts as a Special Item if you choose this in addition to any quiver you may already possess)</li>
- <li>Naptha Bomb (small explosive incendiary<ch.emdash/>counts as a Backpack Item)</li>
- </ul>
- <choice idref="sect260">If you choose to take any of the above items, make the appropriate adjustments to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You may then leave the armoury by <link-text>turning to 260</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect150">
- <meta><title>150</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the arch lies a steep ramp that descends to the floor of a circular chamber, the lowest level of the tower which soars into the stormy sky above. Runes of alien design run around the seamless glassy walls and the air is heavy with the sweet smell of decay. A large circular plinth stands in the centre of the chamber, its mirror-smooth surface a little under three feet from the floor. You take a step towards it and suddenly it is surrounded by a wall of fierce blue flames which shoot upwards from tiny vents in the floor around its base. As these flames gradually subside, you see four Kai Masters cowering upon the plinth. They are the four young Kai you thought had been left safely behind in the Old Necropolis of Tyso. They look petrified with fear, and when they see you they throw up their blistered, soot-blackened hands and plead for you to release them from their fiery prison.</p>
- <p>Drawing upon your Magnakai Discipline of psi-screen, you detect that the image of the four Kai Masters is nothing but a cruel illusion. Then, in the very next instant, the ramp on which you are standing suddenly drops away from under your feet. You throw yourself to one side and crash down upon the floor of the chamber, rolling over as you strike the hard surface to lessen the shock of impact. As you stagger to your feet, you see the image of the four Kai being consumed by fire. It is a frightful sight, and as they scream their last, a wave of hostile psychic energy crashes into your mind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect122">If you possess Kai-screen, <link-text>turn to 122</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you do not possess this Discipline, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect151">
- <meta><title>151</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane staggers backwards, clutching at his wounds with his free hand. You move forward, eager to finish him, but he parries your lunge and then, with a look of utter desperation in his soulless eyes, he glances up at the ceiling and shouts:</p>
- <p><quote>Take him, Doom-blight! Take him now!</quote></p>
- <p>Your blood freezes when you see a great gull-winged horror emerge from a hidden perch among the hall<ch.apos/>s shadowy rafters. It plunges towards you, a fiery sword held at arm<ch.apos/>s length ready to be driven through your heart.</p>
- <choice idref="sect263">If you have ever encountered the Demoness Shamath in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 263</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have never encountered this creature, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect152">
- <meta><title>152</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you shout the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Halt Missile</spell> and point at the onrushing arrow. The deadly shaft freezes in mid-flight, barely a few inches from the tip of your extended finger. Immediately you crouch down, and as the effects of the spell wear off, the shaft suddenly re-animates and whistles over your head to lodge itself in the tangle of vines that curtain the cave mouth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133"><link-text>Turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect153">
- <meta><title>153</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Icy fingers of fear run up and down your spine as you brace yourself for the imminent impact of the approaching fire-bolt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect113">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 113</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect176">If you possess Assimilance, and have attained the rank of Sun Lord, (and you wish to use this Discipline), <link-text>turn to 176</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect212">If you possess Grand Huntmastery, and have attained the rank of Sun Lord, (and you wish to use this Discipline), <link-text>turn to 212</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect259">If you possess none of these skills, or do not yet possess the necessary level of Kai rank, (or if you choose not to use any Kai mastery), <link-text>turn instead to 259</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect154">
- <meta><title>154</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Dazed and trembling, you stagger to your feet and tentatively shake your head in an effort to clear your blurred vision. Close by your feet you see the outline of your weapon and you stoop to retrieve it. (If you were holding a normal weapon when you passed through the wall, you discover it has been destroyed by the blast: delete this weapon from your Weapons List. If the weapon you were holding was a Special Item, you discover that it has survived intact.)</p>
- <p>As your vision returns you see that you have been hurled back into the chamber. Your fellow Kai, all of whom were knocked to the floor by the blast, are now struggling to get themselves back on their feet. Fortunately their physical injuries are minor; their innate Kai skills have spared them from serious injury. However, you sense that your inability to detect that the wall was an explosive illusion has severely shaken their confidence.</p>
- <p><quote>Our prey is far more cunning than I feared,</quote> you say, reproachfully, <quote>but we are Kai and we shall rise to the challenge. Our enemy possesses strong magic and he is capable of masking it well. Yet he chooses to use it to wound and weaken our party, not to kill us. Why this should be I do not know. But from now on we cannot entirely trust our senses to protect us. We must proceed with the utmost caution.</quote></p>
- <p>Beyond where the illusory north wall once stood, you can now see a small antechamber which is wreathed in acrid blue smoke. Gradually this smoke dissipates to reveal a shallow plinth upon which lies a bronze urn. This heavy object rests on its side and a quantity of pale grey ash has spilled from its hinged lid. Cautiously you approach the urn and see that there is an inscription engraved on its side. From this ancient script you learn that the ashes are the last remains of Baroness Garrulen, the wife of Hul<ch.emdash/>third Baron of Tyso. Glinting half-buried in the ash, you notice a ring encrusted with crimson gemstones (if you wish to keep this Ruby Ring, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item).</p>
- <p>You are righting the urn on its plinth when you hear Steel Hand calling you. He has found something among the rubble which litters the floor at the rear of the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35"><link-text>Turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect155">
- <meta><title>155</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you can move to avoid the oncoming missile, it hits you in the chest and sends you crashing to the floor: lose 10 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you have survived this grievous wounding, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect156">
- <meta><title>156</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With bated breath you watch as the warrior kicks the smouldering remains of the iron chest. He scans the warehouse, the visor of his helmet pulsing a dull crimson glow as he tries to locate where you are hiding. Unable to find you, he cradles his weapon and begins a systematic search of the building.</p>
- <p>As he passes beneath the storage tank you seize the opportunity to launch a surprise attack. You leap onto his back and bring him crashing to the ground. However, you soon discover that he is an exceptionally strong opponent and your advantage of surprise is quickly lost. He draws his power from the armour he wears and you are hard pressed to maintain your hold on his neck as he wrestles to break free. Then another warrior appears at the rear of the building. He, too, is armed with a magical spear. He aims this weapon at you and a flash of light erupts from its tip.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 12 or less, deduct 2 from the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect93">If your total is now 0 or less, <link-text>turn to 93</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">If it is 1 or more, <link-text>turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect157">
- <meta><title>157</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you destroy the mechanism, you feel a shuddering vibration run through the great iron portal. Slowly it grinds open to reveal an antechamber that is lit by a dozen flaming torches set around its glassy walls. The wind has now become so fierce that it is ripping your exposed flesh. Rather than remain outside in the storm a moment longer, you hurry through the open portal and seek shelter within.</p>
- <choice idref="sect227"><link-text>Turn to 227</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect158">
- <meta><title>158</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Despite your desperate action, you continue to sink further into this dry bog until the soil closes in over your head. You draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus to ease the pain in your aching lungs, but this simply prolongs your life for a further fifteen minutes before the lack of air and the crushing weight of the morass combine to overwhelm you.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your duel end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect159">
- <meta><title>159</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You insert the iron disc and the portal slides open to reveal an impressive sight. The chamber beyond is stacked to the ceiling with coils of wire and solid bars made of pure platinum. These items are worth a vast fortune on your home world of Magnamund. (If you wish to take a Platinum Ingot, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. Due to its weight, however, it occupies the same space as 2 Backpack Items.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect330">To leave this chamber and continue, <link-text>turn to 330</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect160">
- <meta><title>160</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage beyond the fissure twists and turns like an angry snake. Gradually this winding tunnel bears eastwards and descends by slope and stair into deeper levels of the catacombs. During your long trek you detect not a single trace of the imposter and, when eventually the tunnel comes to a dead end, you curse your ill luck. Reluctantly you decide to retrace your steps. It is only then that you sense a faint but lingering aura of evil close to the tunnel floor.</p>
- <p>A closer inspection reveals a trapdoor set into the grimy flagstones. You pull this heavy hatch open and discover a circular chute and a ladder descending into darkness. Your heart misses a beat when you notice fresh tracks on the ladder<ch.apos/>s iron rungs; at last you have found the impostor<ch.apos/>s trail.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you lead the descent into the chute, using your powers of infravision to scan for signs of movement in the damp darkness below. After several minutes you reach the bottom of the ladder where you discover a large vaulted chamber. Around its walls are positioned urns and grey stone caskets, each embellished with traces of gold. There is an unexpected air of opulence about this vault which prompts you to guess that it is a secret burial tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have ever visited the Graveyard of the Ancients in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you have never visited this forbidden place, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect161">
- <meta><title>161</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the open door and pause momentarily to check that no glyphs or other traps have been placed here. The doorway is clear, and you can detect no lingering residues of magical energy that might betray the presence of illusions or shielding spells, so you rush through it and hurry down the flight of steps that descends beneath the ground.</p>
- <p>The steps lead down to a tunnel that is dark and narrow. You sense danger ahead and, using your infravision, you detect Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane standing at the far end of this passageway, some thirty yards distant. He is holding a long piece of rope which trails back along the tunnel towards you. You follow its course and see that it is attached to a wooden peg which holds secure the door to a cage set flush into the tunnel wall. You focus on the door and sense that the cage beyond is occupied by a large and ferocious carnivore. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane utters a chilling laugh as he whips the rope to dislodge the peg. But you focus on the peg and, using your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus, you cause it to jam. Your adversary curses you and casts aside the rope in frustration. Then he turns and disappears into a tunnel which meets this main passageway from the left.</p>
- <choice idref="sect344"><link-text>Turn to 344</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect162">
- <meta><title>162</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race towards the swirling mouth of the Shadow Gate, but Naar is determined to launch one last desperate attempt to prevent you from escaping. You are within ten paces of the gate when two of the rubbery-limbed horrors emerge from the smoky walls and hurl themselves upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Cryopedeans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">32</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect163">
- <meta><title>163</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your defensive blow tears a hole in the creature<ch.apos/>s silvery wing. The wound is not fatal, but the damage to its wing is enough to render the hungry dragonfly incapable of ascending any higher. It emits a loud buzz of frustration which fades as it slowly spirals away towards a cluster of smaller creatures hovering near the centre of the gorge.</p>
- <p>At length you reach the apex of the cavern and soar into the light-filled vent. Upon entering this vast aperture you are buffeted by crosswinds which sweep you precariously towards its rocky lip. Only your Kai Disciplines and your lightning-swift reactions save you from being crushed to death as you are blown towards its jagged, volcanic edge.</p>
- <p>You survive the impact and are able to haul yourself out of the vent and climb safely onto a surface that you assume to be the roof of the cavern. Seeking shelter from the raging crosswinds, you squeeze yourself into a hollow in the porous rock from where you are able to take stock of your new surroundings. The sight makes you gasp, for it is a view that truly rivals the fertile wonders of the cavern below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect164">
- <meta><title>164</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wary of the uncertain floor of this hall, you utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Levitation</spell> and feel yourself rising slowly to the ceiling. Using the gaps between the bricks in the arched roof, you pull yourself along the ceiling until you reach the far end of the hall. Fortunately, the door is unlocked and you are able to open it with your foot and lower yourself safely through its archway and into the hall beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect62"><link-text>Turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect165">
- <meta><title>165</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon realize that the creature<ch.apos/>s iron collar and chain prevent it from reaching you so long as you keep your back pressed to the cavern wall. Mindful of this, you inch your way slowly towards the tunnel. However, you have progressed only a few yards when you feel the floor sloping away. The water is getting deeper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess Magi-magic, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect166">
- <meta><title>166</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fortunately your attempt to evade this magical missile is successful. The onrushing bolt hits you only a glancing blow (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point) before it slams into the wall of the shaft, showering you with harmless crimson sparks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and then continue by <link-text>turning to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect167">
- <meta><title>167</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Once more you focus your advanced Kai senses on the gloomy entrance to the tomb. You can detect no living creature or imminent threat of ambush, yet the area around the doorway radiates traces of a malevolent magic that makes you deeply suspicious. However, you are mindful of the fact that the impostor has entered the catacombs by this door, and the longer you delay in tracking him, the more he increases his chances of successfully evading your hunting party.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you wish to suppress your sense of unease and enter the tomb, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect173">If you choose to heed your senses and examine the entrance more closely, <link-text>turn to 173</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect168">
- <meta><title>168</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully you lower yourself through the hole and drop silently to the floor of the cellar beneath. You remain crouched where you land, not daring to move a muscle until you have scoured the darkness for any potential threat to your life. You detect an area of warmth radiating from behind a stack of rotting timbers and slowly you inch towards it, your weapon drawn in readiness to strike.</p>
- <p>You have moved to within a few yards of the timber pile and feel confident that you have tracked down your enemy.</p>
- <p><quote>Come out, Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane!</quote> you shout, <quote>Don<ch.apos/>t hide from me like some cowardly dog!</quote></p>
- <p>You sense movement and draw back your weapon in anticipation of your enemy<ch.apos/>s imminent attack. Then a loud, inhuman, blood-curdling howl issues from behind the pile of timber and in a terrifying moment your confidence is shattered. The enemy confronting you is not Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane.</p>
- <p>You glimpse the shadowy blur of a huge, black shape rising up from behind the timbers. Fangs gleam momentarily in the gloom as it opens its cavernous maw, and then, in the blink of an eye, it leaps over the pile and falls upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Kataka</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">42</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect333">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 333</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect169">
- <meta><title>169</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hit the stinking water and dive beneath the surface. Your swift reactions save you from being hit and wounded, but when you rise from the stinking mire and claw the muck from your eyes, you are horrified to see the serpent<ch.apos/>s tail swishing back towards your chest.</p>
- <p>Instinctively you throw yourself flat against the wall and its deadly barbed tail misses you by inches. As it sweeps past, you draw your weapon in readiness to strike out at it the moment it comes within range.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ukara (chained)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This serpent is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect348">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 348</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect170">
- <meta><title>170</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For what seems like an eternity, you plummet into the swirling heart of a supernatural vortex. Brilliant sparks and flashes of colour illuminate this funnel of darkness as items of furniture from the banquet hall explode and disintegrate, unable to withstand the extraordinary pressures generated by this cosmic whirlpool. You watch with shock and awe as the lifeless body of your adversary<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>is transformed into a fiery meteor before your very eyes. Then, gradually, the spin of the vortex becomes less fierce and you feel the centrifugal pull on your body easing. Beams of light penetrate the darkness and you see Alyss glide into view. She appears to be reclining, as if casually resting upon a couch after a weary day<ch.apos/>s work, and her expression is mildly pensive. She looks as if to her this whole terrifying journey is nothing more than an irritating inconvenience.</p>
- <p>At last the vortex slows to a standstill and you feel ground solidifying beneath your feet. But the darkness gives way to a swirling mist which dissolves to reveal a horrifying sight. A deep and morbid terror returns to twist its knife in your guts when you suddenly realize where you are. You have been summoned to the throne hall of Naar<ch.emdash/>the seat of power of the King of the Darkness<ch.emdash/>the inner sanctum of ultimate evil.</p>
- <choice idref="sect331"><link-text>Turn to 331</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect171">
- <meta><title>171</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Frantically you examine the portcullis, searching for some chink in its armour that you can exploit to your advantage. It is crudely constructed from criss-crossing strands of iron and steel, bolted and riveted wherever the bars connect, yet despite its crude appearance you soon discover that it is very tough and secure. You will not be able to break through this portal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect272">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 272</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect172">
- <meta><title>172</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You muster your skill and plunge your hand into the water, close to where the creature<ch.apos/>s head has surfaced. In an instant, the black water around its neck and body freezes over, trapping and crushing the beast within a solid block of ice.</p>
- <p>Free now to continue your pursuit, you leave the frozen cellar-beast and climb the steps to emerge amongst the ruins of the city. There is no sign of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, but when you hurry to where you saw him last, you discover a flight of steps leading down into a wide underground passage. His tracks can be seen clearly imbedded in the muddy floor of this tunnel.</p>
- <p>The tunnel passes under a broad avenue and then surfaces in front of a grand two-storey building. This was once a busy warehouse that stored braided coils of fine copper cable. You avoid the main entrance in case your adversary is lying in ambush there, and enter instead by way of a flight of iron steps that leads to a second floor window. The moment you set foot inside the building you sense that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is here. Warily you explore, your nerves stretched to breaking point as your eyes seek out detail in the darkness. You are approaching the west wing of this building when you suddenly catch sight of your opponent through a hole in the floor. He is sitting on his haunches behind a mound of wooden crates, busily eating a green-skinned fruit, and he is unaware that you are watching him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect81">If you possess Magi-magic, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane (and wish to use your skill), <link-text>turn to 81</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect106">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 106</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect319">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 319</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you possess none of these skills, or have yet to reach the required level of Kai rank, or simply choose not to use them, <link-text>turn instead to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect173">
- <meta><title>173</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you inch your way nearer to the open tomb. Lying across the threshold is a slab of stone which stirs your curiosity. A closer inspection reveals an intricate design scratched upon its surface. It has been smeared with dirt and a magical spell of shielding has been placed upon it to disguise its true purpose. Yet you realize immediately what it is and you recoil from the slab, hurriedly retreating a dozen paces. It is a glyph of power: a magical booby trap that has been expertly camouflaged to keep it secret. If anyone or anything were to step upon or pass over this glyph, the energy contained within it would be released in one devastating instant.</p>
- <p>You warn the others of what you have found and tell them to retreat with you to a safe distance. From the cover of a gravestone, several yards from the tomb, you instruct Star Lynx to pick up a rock and hurl it through the open doorway. He selects an apple-sized chunk of granite and lobs it accurately into the open tomb.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If the number you have chosen is 1<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect174">
- <meta><title>174</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you enter the mouth of the skull-rock you are engulfed by a dense fog that is icy-cold and impenetrable to your sight and senses. The thunderous noise of the temple<ch.apos/>s destruction ends abruptly, as if a great door has suddenly been closed upon it. You strain your Kai skills to aid your pursuit of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane but to no avail; the ivory-white fog hides everything, swamping and distorting your sense of time and direction.</p>
- <p>You keep moving, forcing yourself onwards, even though the surface beneath your feet has become viscous and uncertain. After what seems like an eternity spent wandering through this cloudy limbo, you gradually feel the ground hardening and sense that the impenetrable fog is beginning to dissipate. Patches of grey appear in the creamy whiteness. Then the fog dissolves completely and you find yourself standing in the middle of a rubble-strewn street, surrounded by the bleak and derelict remains of a decaying, alien city.</p>
- <p>It is the dead of night and a fine drizzle falls from a storm-laden sky, dampening this dreary landscape. Everywhere you look you see the hollow shells of buildings. They are heaped with mounds of broken stone, twisted rusty iron, and shattered glass. There are no trees, no blades of grass, no animals here. Everything is cold, grey, and dead.</p>
- <p>You examine the paved surface of the street and detect your enemy<ch.apos/>s footprints. They are fresh and they lead you to a small courtyard flanked by two buildings: a large municipal hall and a smaller two-storey dwelling. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s tracks end in the middle of the wet courtyard and you sense that they have been deliberately erased. Despite your advanced hunting skills, you are unable to determine into which building your enemy has escaped.</p>
- <choice idref="sect148">If you wish to enter the municipal hall, <link-text>turn to 148</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect267">If you wish to investigate the two-storey dwelling, <link-text>turn to 267</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect175">
- <meta><title>175</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The giant serpent resists your mental command to retreat, yet the strain of doing so leaves its body in a state of partial paralysis. Cautiously you advance, keeping a wary eye on its trembling form as you skirt around the serpent and inch your way towards the opposite tunnel. However, you have progressed only a few yards when you feel the floor sloping away beneath your feet. The water is getting deeper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess Magi-magic, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect176">
- <meta><title>176</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your Kai mastery to blur the outline of your body in the hope that the onrushing bolt of energy will miss its mark.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect177">
- <meta><title>177</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pick up the ticking bomb and examine it carefully. Below the illuminated panel, which is counting down the seconds, you see four small windows which display a sequence of numbers. Beneath these windows are tiny buttons which, when pressed, change the numbers that are displayed. The third window in the sequence is blank and, when you concentrate upon it, your Kai senses reveal to you that by keying-in the missing number in the sequence you will prevent the bomb from exploding.</p>
- <p>Study the following sequence of numbers carefully. When you think you know the solution, turn to the page number that is the same as your answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect269">If you guess incorrectly, or if you cannot determine the missing number, <link-text>turn instead to 269</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect178">
- <meta><title>178</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic powers prove very effective: the giant insect obeys your command not to attack. Yet, before it flys away, it sprays the stamen with a misty vapour which causes the petals to close up.</p>
- <p>Hurriedly you retreat along the stamen and narrowly avoid being crushed to death as the huge petals fold in on themselves. Your innate Kai Discipline of Animal Control has saved you from a confrontation with the giant insect, yet the creature has used its own innate abilities to thwart your chances of escaping from the plant this way. The vapour condenses and runs along the stamen, making it difficult for you to maintain your grip, and reluctantly you are forced to retreat all the way down to the bowl of the corolla, to where the hollow stem is now the only chance you have of getting out of this plant alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect179">
- <meta><title>179</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately you are detected by one of the grey-skinned creatures as you pass directly over their fluid-filled trough. It raises the alarm and frantically its ragged brothers scramble to unshoulder and load their bows.</p>
- <choice idref="sect198">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 198</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect231">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 231</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect180">
- <meta><title>180</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Arrows splash into the mire, dangerously close. You sense that this volley was not aimed at you; it was let loose in the hope of hitting you by chance. Anxious to avoid a second volley, you increase your pace and sprint across the vault towards the exit tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect181">
- <meta><title>181</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced psychic defences save you from sustaining severe damage to the fabric of your mind. However, the surprise assault on your mental defences has bought this castle guardian the precious few seconds he needs in which to advance upon you. As the pain in your head recedes, you see the armoured warrior striding towards you with his sword raised high, poised ready to deal you a mighty blow.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Meghanic</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This being is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect182">
- <meta><title>182</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Looking around the walls of this tomb brings back memories of the time that you ventured into the Graveyard of the Ancients. The shape of the urns which stand here are identical to those that you discovered by chance in the tombs beneath that forbidden burial ground. The recollection chills you, for clearly you recall that those urns contained deadly Crypt Spawn.</p>
- <p>You focus your sixth sense on the urns that line this chamber and, to your relief, you detect no living creatures lurking within. You instruct the others to examine them with care and, to your surprise, they discover that some contain Laumspur leaves. They are spotted with age but they still possess their healing powers. (There are enough leaves here for three potions of Laumspur. Each potion counts as one Backpack Item and will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed immediately after combat.)</p>
- <p>You are helping Blazer to tilt one of the urns when a sudden and unexpected noise at the far end of the chamber sets your pulse racing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect183">
- <meta><title>183</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Kekataag the Avenger is attired in battle armour that glimmers like slime-dulled gold. Beneath his helmet there is a hollow skull-face from which emerges a sickly stench that permeates even the foul air of this hall. The skulls and bones of humans bedeck his armoured hide and in his mighty hands he carries a great two-handed axe, its blade stained black with the blood of his countless victims.</p>
- <p>This fearsome warrior holds you with his glowing eyes and you feel waves of powerful psychic energy buffet your mind. Your advanced Kai defences repel this attack, but you are left in no doubt that he is deeply jealous of your supposed defeat of Lone Wolf.</p>
- <choice idref="sect255"><link-text>Turn to 255</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect184">
- <meta><title>184</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call upon your advanced mastery to mask the goodly aura that radiates from your body. Then, having mustered your Kai camouflage skills, you enter the vault and make your way stealthily towards the exit on the far side.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance and Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect313">If your total score is 5 or less, <link-text>turn to 313</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect236">If it is 6 or higher, <link-text>turn to 236</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect185">
- <meta><title>185</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race towards the hover-wagon and, as it sweeps by, you hurl yourself towards its open cargo bay. You hit the side of the vehicle with numbing force (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but you manage to keep your grip and haul yourself aboard.</p>
- <p>By the time the wagon reaches the windswept moat, you have concealed yourself in amongst its cargo of steel cylinders and bales of wire. You hear the distant clang of a bell and, from your hiding place, you are able to watch as the drawbridge extends from beneath the portal to span the deep chasm. Swiftly the wagon passes across the semi-transparent bridge and glides through the tower<ch.apos/>s open portal unchallenged.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect186">
- <meta><title>186</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow opens a gash across the giant insect<ch.apos/>s belly and brings the creature crashing down into the plant<ch.apos/>s corolla. Hurriedly you retreat along the stamen and narrowly avoid being crushed to death beneath its huge rainbow-coloured torso. You have triumphed in combat, yet the creature<ch.apos/>s death has thwarted your chances of escaping this way. Slippery ichor drips from its fatal wound and runs along the stamen, making it difficult for you to maintain your grip, and the bulk of its lifeless body now blocks any chance of your being able to escape upwards.</p>
- <p>Reluctantly you are forced to retreat all the way down to the bowl of the corolla, to where the hollow stem is the only chance you now have of getting out of this sinister plant alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect187">
- <meta><title>187</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate your attention upon the cutting edge of your weapon and, using your advanced skill, cause tongues of magical flame to ignite along its length. Then you vigorously attack the sticky strands of the net and cleave through them with surprising ease. They shrivel at the touch of your fiery weapon and drop in smouldering heaps onto the floor of the tunnel. Within a matter of seconds you have cut a path through and are able to continue your pursuit.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect188">
- <meta><title>188</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the hut and crouch down beside its mud wall, close to its open door. Your senses detect no glyphs or other traps here, and there are no residues of magical energy that might betray the presence of illusions or shielding spells. However, your Kai senses do detect a strong aura of evil lingering at the rear of the hut, close to the water<ch.apos/>s edge.</p>
- <p>You move around to the rear of this hovel and discover that the bank is deeply undercut where the soft earth has been eroded by the fast-flowing stream. Standing in a line in the shadow of the undercut are a dozen wooden cages, each containing a fleshless skeleton. A shiver runs down your spine as your Magnakai Discipline of Divination detects the lingering agonies of these luckless victims. They suffered cruelly at the hands of the natives of this settlement before death finally ended their torment. The shock of your discovery is unnerving: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>You leave the stream and return to the front of the hut. Inside the open doorway you discover several fruits stacked in mounds on a mat of woven rushes. Somewhat to your surprise, your senses reveal that they are nutritious and safe to eat. (There are sufficient fruits here for 3 Meals.)</p>
- <p>Wary of further delay, you approach the trench at the centre of the hut and descend a flight of steps that lead down to an underground tunnel. You can detect no traps, yet you have gone only a few yards along this narrow passageway when you hear the terrifying roar of a large cat. With an abruptness that takes your breath away, a huge tiger-like beast comes bounding from out of the darkness ahead. So sudden and unexpected is this creature<ch.apos/>s attack, that you only just have time in which to unsheathe a hand weapon as it hurls itself upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rahjaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect189">
- <meta><title>189</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ask Steel Hand to give you his rope and he obeys dutifully. You sling its coiled length around your shoulder and then you commence your climb. The rough, pitted wall offers many handholds and you progress swiftly to the ceiling where you are able to work your way quickly across to the middle of the chamber, directly above the fissure. Once you are in position, you fix one end of the rope to an exposed stone beam and cast the other end to your companions waiting below. One by one you watch them swing across the void and, when all have crossed safely, you untie the rope and make your way over to the far side to join them.</p>
- <p><quote>Come, my lords,</quote> you say, anxious to waste not a minute more, <quote>we must press on. We<ch.apos/>ve a trail to find.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect190">
- <meta><title>190</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You rush to the nearest dragonfly pen and use your Magnakai Discipline of Animal Control to subdue its hostile occupant. Reluctantly the creature submits to your will and allows you to climb upon its back. It has no saddle, and so you are forced to grip its scaly back as best you can as it rapidly takes to the air. Fear is running ice-cold in your veins as you urge the creature towards the open portal in the roof, for you know that the bomb is set to explode at any moment.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect335">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>3, <link-text>turn to 335</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect278">If it is 4<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 278</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect218">If it is 7<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 218</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect191">
- <meta><title>191</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge from the cave mouth, staying as low as you can and making the most of what little foliage there is in the clearing. You are so successful that you come to within twenty yards of your enemy<ch.apos/>s hiding place before he spots your approach.</p>
- <p>The sudden realization that you are so close shocks your adversary to the core. You see his mouth drop open, revealing teeth that show white against the green of the jungle, then he regains his senses and rapidly disappears into the undergrowth. Determined that you are not going to allow him to get away so easily, you leap to your feet and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect192">
- <meta><title>192</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The sudden shock of impact nearly knocks you off the back of your flying steed. Frantically you scramble to regain your seat and, as you pull yourself upright, you notice that the enemy is now more than a hundred feet below; the momentum of its attack has carried it deeper into the cavern.</p>
- <p>Your mount seizes its slim advantage and climbs as fast as it can to get away from the larger dragonfly. The enemy circles about, as if preparing to pursue, then it emits a loud buzz and changes its course. You watch with relief as it spirals away towards a cluster of smaller dragonflies that are hovering near the centre of the gorge.</p>
- <p>Several minutes elapse before your tireless mount reaches the apex of the cavern and soars into the light-filled vent. Upon entering this vast aperture you are buffeted by crosswinds which sweep you and your air-steed precariously close to its rocky lip. The shock of the unexpectedly violent wind causes your mount to circle around the lip and attempt to dive back into the cavern. Blind with fear, it no longer responds to your commands, forcing you to take drastic action to avoid being carried back into the gorge. As you swoop past a rocky outcrop, you leap from the creature<ch.apos/>s back and abandon yourself to the mercy of the crosswinds. Only your Kai mastery and your lightning-swift reactions save you from being crushed to death as you are blown towards the jagged, volcanic edge.</p>
- <p>Miraculously, you survive the impact and are able to haul yourself out of the vent and climb safely onto a surface that, you assume, is the roof of the cavern. Seeking shelter from the raging crosswinds, you squeeze yourself into a hollow in the porous rock from where you are able to take stock of your new surroundings. The sight makes you gasp, for it is a view to rival the fertile wonders of the cavern below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect193">
- <meta><title>193</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a dozen paces of the stairs when suddenly one of the grey-skinned creatures turns and sniffs the air; it has detected your scent. It scans the hall and the moment its ghoulish eyes focus on your body it raises the alarm. Frantically, its ragged brothers scramble to the stairs to deny you access to the balcony and archway above.</p>
- <combat><enemy>6 Avarosi</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">44</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>You cannot evade this combat; you must fight these foes to the finish.</p>
- <choice idref="sect325">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 325</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect194">
- <meta><title>194</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mentally you recite the words of the spell <spell>Breathe Water</spell> and feel strength coursing through your limbs as the pain in your air-starved lungs melts away. The creature is unaware of your ability to survive underwater and this gives you a strong advantage; it is slow to react to your initial attack.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ekmakon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Ignore any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point losses you may sustain in the first two rounds of this combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect195">
- <meta><title>195</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Release him, my lord,</quote> says Banedon. The Baron, caught off-guard by the sudden disappearance of the magical shield and the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s unexpected request, takes a step backwards and reaches nervously for his sword.</p>
- <p><quote>Have no fear,</quote> says Banedon, staying the Baron<ch.apos/>s hand, <quote>for we have here the real Grand Master of the Kai.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How can you be so sure?</quote> retorts Caldar. Banedon smiles and points to the amulet that you wear around your neck.</p>
- <p><quote>Look there,</quote> he says. <quote>No agent of Naar could tolerate the touch of that goodly artifact. Banish your doubts, my lord. This man is Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect88"><link-text>Turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect196">
- <meta><title>196</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place an arrow to your bowstring and draw it taut to your lips. Expertly you gauge the distance to your target and then let your arrow fly. It arcs into the jungle and slams into the tree behind which your enemy is part-hidden, peppering his face with splinters of damp wood.</p>
- <p>He curses you, his teeth showing white against the green of the jungle as he spits out fragments of tree bark. Then he springs from his hiding place and disappears into the undergrowth. Determined that you are not going to allow him to get away so easily, you dash out of the tunnel and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect197">
- <meta><title>197</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having been detected, you attempt a hasty escape and sprint as fast as you can towards the exit. As you run, a volley of bone arrows comes whistling down from the iron cauldron. One of the arrows grazes your left shoulder and gouges a furrow of skin from the back of your left thigh. You stifle a cry, but the intense pain that grips your injured limbs warns you at once that the tip of the arrow was tainted with poison.</p>
- <p>Your innate healing skills counter the poison before it can do its deadly work, but your body<ch.apos/>s defences draw heavily on your reserves of strength and the curing process leaves you feeling weak and light-headed: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">To continue, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect198">
- <meta><title>198</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You extend your right arm and point your hand at the trough below. Then you utter the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and a familiar tingle rushes along your arm to explode into life at the tip of your index finger. A bolt of blue fire arcs downwards to the oily surface and, with a deafening wumph!, it ignites the liquid to create a blazing fireball. Greedily, this guttering ball of flame consumes the creatures who are gathered around the lip of the trough, sparing none. The heat from the blast buffets you and singes your tunic and cloak, but your body survives unscathed.</p>
- <p>On reaching the balcony you speak the words which negate the effects of the Teleport spell, and the moment your feet touch the ground you hurry into the archway beyond.</p>
- <p>Use of the Teleport spell has cost you 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Remember to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">To continue, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect199">
- <meta><title>199</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The first thing you see are the creature<ch.apos/>s eyes. Like two strips of molten sulphur, they radiate a cold, yellow light. Then you glimpse the outline of its angular shoulders, its square snout, and its gleaming steel forelegs. Oily drool hangs from an iron jaw which is set with jagged blades. As this shocking jaw widens, you hear the whir of metal cogs and gears.</p>
- <p>You can be fearless in the face of foes of flesh and blood, but this steel wolf strikes terror in your heart. You turn and flee towards the distant door, praying that it will lead to a safe haven from this bloodless beast, but you reach it only to discover that it is locked. Frantically you search for a bolt or a keyhole but there are none. Then you locate two squares of opaque crimson gemstone set into the wall. The squares are like those you encountered at the entrance to the temple of Avaros, yet these differ in one important respect: they are separated by a small slot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect261">If you possess an Iron Disc, <link-text>turn to 261</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect210">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 210</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect200">
- <meta><title>200</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Fiery winds sear your face and body as you, and your adversary, tumble headlong towards the whirling white heart of the vortex. Motes of fire stream past on all sides and a roaring wind howls like a demon in your ears. You pass through a cloud of sparkling vapour which wraps threads of silver light around your limbs and torso. As you emerge from the cloud, this shimmering cocoon grows tighter and tighter until the pain becomes almost unbearable.</p>
- <choice idref="sect229">If you possess Grand Nexus, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 229</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect281">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 281</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect201">
- <meta><title>201</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The seething horde of needle-fanged horrors attempt to surround and overwhelm you. They seem undaunted by the divine glow of your wondrous blade<ch.emdash/>a blade that can seal their doom.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Cryopedeans</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect350">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 350</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect202">
- <meta><title>202</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To your amazement, the portal begins to rise of its own accord. You wait until it has risen a few feet and you are sure that no enemy awaits you on the other side, then you duck under the heavy iron plate and hurry into the tunnel beyond. As you run, you hear the portal slamming shut behind you with a dull reverberating boom.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect203">
- <meta><title>203</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This psychic assault has been one of the worst you have ever experienced. You have survived it, but your Kai senses warn you that your ordeal has not ended; it has only just begun. You force open your eyes and look with dread at the terrible threat that waits to confront you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect204">
- <meta><title>204</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel a searing wave of heat wash over your body as the fireball reaches its peak and then rapidly dies to form a spluttering flame which clings to the mouth of the fountain. None of the creatures have survived the conflagration and you are able to cross the hall and ascend the stairs to the balconied archway without meeting any resistance.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">To continue, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect205">
- <meta><title>205</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Guided by your Kai mastery, you successfully avoid the tumbling debris until you reach the base of the skull-rock. Here you are struck by a falling boulder which clips your left shoulder and leaves you sprawled on the floor: lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your arm may be injured but your spirit refuses to give up. Cradling your injured arm, you stagger to your feet and hurry through the misty opening. Barely seconds later there is a tremendous explosion and the entire temple ceiling caves in.</p>
- <p>In addition to the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points loss, you soon discover that you have also lost 1 Backpack Item. Delete from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> the third item you have recorded on your list of Backpack Items.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">To continue, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect206">
- <meta><title>206</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Wary of danger, you focus your Kai sixth sense on the urns and caskets which line this chamber and, to your relief, detect no evil creatures lurking within. You instruct the others to examine them with care and, to your surprise, they discover that some contain Laumspur leaves. They are spotted with age but they still possess healing powers. (There are enough leaves here for three potions of Laumspur. Each potion counts as one Backpack Item and will restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points when swallowed immediately after combat.)</p>
- <p>You are helping Blazer to tilt one of the urns when a sudden and unexpected noise at the far end of the chamber sets your pulse racing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect207">
- <meta><title>207</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lower yourself through the hole and catch sight of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane running away. He is clutching at his injured leg as he weaves and swerves to avoid the debris which litters his escape route. You move to follow him, but your attention is momentarily distracted by something that has fallen from his tunic pocket. It is a small disc of bronze that is engraved with alien symbols. (You must keep this Bronze Disc. Record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item. You must discard one non-weapon Special Item in its favour if you already hold the maximum number permissible.)</p>
- <p>You pocket the disc and give chase. Despite his wounded leg, your adversary is more familiar with this treacherous cityscape and he widens the gap between you. Soon you have lost sight of him completely. However, he cannot shake you off his trail, and you have no difficulty following his tracks as they leave the building and wend their way across a desolate wasteland beyond. You follow his footprints to a gutted building, several storeys high, which is adorned with strangely angular gargoyles. The inside of this crumbling edifice is completely empty and your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail passes through it to a rear exit. As you emerge on the far side, you catch your first breathtaking glimpse of this grim city<ch.apos/>s tallest structure.</p>
- <p>It is a great tower of gleaming black stone which rises from the depths of a fathomless moat and soars to within a hundred feet of the stormy grey clouds. Its pitted surface bristles with metal discs and antennae, streaked with rust, yet there are few windows and you can see but one portal. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is limping towards it. He approaches the deep trench that rings the tower<ch.apos/>s base and, as he halts at the edge, a semi-transparent drawbridge extends from beneath the portal. It resembles a flattened beam of solid, green-grey light. This beam bridges the moat and provides your enemy with a means to reach the open tower door.</p>
- <p>Powerless to stop him, you can only stand and watch as he crosses the moat and disappears into the tower. At first glance this stronghold looks to be impregnable, but you have gained access to far tougher fortresses in the past and you do not allow your spirits to be dampened by the difficult task of finding a way into this one.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect208">
- <meta><title>208</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing upon your Animal Mastery, you will the giant snake to retreat towards the far wall of the cavern. Its hypnotic eyes widen and its huge body trembles as it struggles to resist your psychic command.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. Add 1 to the number you have picked for every level of Kai mastery you have attained above the rank of Kai Grand Guardian.</p>
- <choice idref="sect175">If your total score is now 6 or less, <link-text>turn to 175</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If it is 7 or more, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect209">
- <meta><title>209</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unshoulder your bow and draw an arrow from your quiver. As you fix the notch of the arrow to the bowstring, you cast the Old Kingdom battle spell <spell>Flameshaft</spell> upon its tip, keeping the last word of the spell upon your lips until you are ready to fire.</p>
- <p>Patiently you watch the warrior kicking at the smouldering remains of the iron chest. The moment he turns away, you utter the completing word of the spell and let loose your arrow at his back. The tip of the arrow ignites in flight, the magical flame illuminating the gloom as it arcs towards your unwary target with deadly precision. The fiery point penetrates deep into the metal canister strapped to the warrior<ch.apos/>s back and, in a terrifying instant, he and his sorcerous weapon are engulfed by a crackling mass of electrical energy. He screams and staggers across the floor, his limbs and torso trailing blue-white snakes of light which earth themselves to the surrounding metal debris. Then, finally, the energy that is contained within the canister is expended. Released from his torment, he loses his balance and falls heavily to the floor.</p>
- <p>You shoulder your bow and move to descend from the top of the storage tank, but you freeze when you see a second warrior running to where the first has fallen. As he passes beneath the tank, you leap onto his back and bring him crashing to the ground. To your shocked surprise you discover that he is an exceptionally strong opponent. He draws power from the armour he wears and he uses it to break your grip. In desperation you utter the words of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Energy Grasp</spell> and use it to discharge a powerful pulse of energy into the fabric of his armour. The effect is devastating. His armour disintegrates, crushing him to death as it crumples and compresses his body.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect210">
- <meta><title>210</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The rasping growl of the metal wolf is steadily getting louder. The sinister sound makes your palms slick with cold sweat as you feverishly examine the door and the locking mechanism set into the wall nearby.</p>
- <p>The gemstone squares are sensitive devices which secure this door. By tapping upon each of them a correct number of times you will cause the lock to disengage and the door will open. You place your fingers lightly upon the squares and feel the tell-tale vibrations that are the key to deciphering their secret code. Aided by your Kai skills, you are able to determine that the first code is equal to the number of named Kirlundin islands north of Egen. The second code is equal to the number of villages to the east of Ragadorn.</p>
- <p>In order to discover the exact numbers that will open the door, consult the map.</p>
- <p>When you think you know the two-digit solution, turn to the entry that is the same number as your answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect134">If you cannot decipher the codes, <link-text>turn instead to 134</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect211">
- <meta><title>211</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment the rock passes over the glyph there is a blinding flash of white light, followed almost instantly by the deafening crackle of exploding electrical energies. Splinters of stone ricochet from the gravestone behind which you and your fellow Kai have wisely taken cover, and the stench of scorched earth and ozone assails your nostrils.</p>
- <p>Then, abruptly, the noise and light cease and the burial ground is shrouded once more in gloomy silence. You peer over the gravestone to see that the doorway is now clear of rubble, save for the slab upon which the glyph is inscribed. The destructive power of the glyph has been discharged, but only temporarily. Your senses warn you that it is recharging; you have but a few seconds in which to enter the tomb before the magical device is active once more.</p>
- <p><quote>Quickly, my lords,</quote> you say, as you spring to your feet and hurry towards the entrance, <quote>Follow me!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect131"><link-text>Turn to 131</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect212">
- <meta><title>212</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You call on your advanced Kai mastery to protect you from the effects of being struck by a massive electrical charge. However, the bolt that is now speeding towards your head is not a natural phenomenon<ch.emdash/>it is wholly magical in nature. The protection of your advanced Discipline may not be sufficient to save you from this crackling bolt of magical fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. For every level of Kai rank you have attained above that of Grand Guardian, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect291">If your total is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 291</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect166">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 166</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect213">
- <meta><title>213</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You hear the pot splash into the mire and the sound makes you spin around and reach for your weapon. The two angry reptilians clamber out of the pot and come rushing at you with jagged bone swords clutched tightly in their hands. They hiss and howl as simultaneously they launch themselves upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>2 Knoarcs</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>These beings are immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect129">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 129</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect214">
- <meta><title>214</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retreat along the stamen as fast as you can, yet the sticky pollen conspires to slow you down. Then there is a sudden rush of air and you are forced to flatten yourself behind a gluey pollen cluster as the insect<ch.apos/>s lance-like proboscis comes hurtling towards your back.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Disciplines of Grand Pathsmanship and Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect295">If your total score is now 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 295</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect215">
- <meta><title>215</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the cover of the leafy undergrowth you observe the primitive settlement for several minutes. During this vigil, you are bitten on the wrist by a small, ugly-looking spider which you crush immediately under your heel. The spider<ch.apos/>s bite is poisonous, but you are saved from a long and painful death by your innate Kai healing powers which eradicate the venom from your blood: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As time ticks by you become increasingly restless. You can detect no signs of life around the settlement and you are haunted by the fear that you may have allowed your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail to go cold. Prompted by this anxiety, you move closer to the settlement under cover of the thick jungle foliage. The line of deserted mud huts look innocuous, but the words of the voice of Naar still linger in your memory. This humid jungle realm lies within his domain; it is therefore reasonable to expect that any inhabitants of this place will be wholly devoted to the cause of Evil.</p>
- <p>You reach the edge of the undergrowth and pause to assess potential threats. The huts are semi-derelict, all bearing some signs of neglect and decay. The nearest one is a clay-tiled hovel that, like the others, appears to be empty. But when you focus upon its open doorway you see that a trench has been cut into its earth floor. You magnify your vision and at once you detect steps in the wall of this excavation, leading underground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect306">If you wish to enter the hut and investigate where these steps lead to, <link-text>turn to 306</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you choose instead to check the hut for traps, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect216">
- <meta><title>216</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In response to your prayer, you feel a warm and glowing sensation deep within your chest. This feeling grows and then pulses through your body and your mind, leaving you physically and mentally refreshed and alert: restore 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Confident that the divine Gods of Good are watching over you in your moment of truth, you throw open the doors and stride boldly into the hall beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect240"><link-text>Turn to 240</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect217">
- <meta><title>217</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You unsheathe your weapon and dive aside to avoid the Bangrol as it swoops out of the chimney and attempts to claw you with its razor-sharp talons.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bangrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you win this combat in 3 rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If the combat goes to a fourth round, do not continue the fight. Instead, <link-text>turn immediately to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect218">
- <meta><title>218</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You escape through the steel roof of the tower and catch a fleeting glimpse of the rainswept city far below. Suddenly there is a tremendous flash as the bomb explodes and a debris-laden shockwave hits you from behind, flattening you against the dragonfly<ch.apos/>s crusty neck: lost 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your winged mount is hit by twisted metal from the blast which tears open its vulnerable belly. You feel it shudder, and then, in a terrifying instant, it ceases to beat its gossamer wings. Moments later you find yourself clinging desperately to its back as it plummets towards the ruins of the alien city.</p>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you possess Deliverance, and have attained the rank of Sun Knight, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect226">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 226</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect219">
- <meta><title>219</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recite the words of the Old Kingdom battle spell <spell>Shield</spell> and circle your arm in a wide arc before you. The reptilians cackle with glee as they finish reloading their bows, and together they lean over the lip of the pot and take aim at your seemingly unprotected body. Simultaneously they let fire, sending a stream of arrows whistling towards your chest, but none of them find their mark. The bone shafts shatter to pieces as they smash into your invisible shield.</p>
- <p>Your thwarted enemies curse you vilely as they fumble to reload once more. It will take them less than a minute to achieve this task and so, mindful of the impending danger, you turn and hurriedly examine the sealed portal for a lever or some other means to make it rise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect220">
- <meta><title>220</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You can feel a warm breeze wafting along this new hallway and you sense that it comes from a stairwell at its far end. When you investigate it, you rediscover Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s footprints on the stone steps. You cast your hands over them and detect that this is not a false trail: your enemy passed this way sometime within the last hour.</p>
- <p>Slowly you ascend the stairs and arrive at the arched entrance to a large, vaulted stone chamber. Gathered around a fountain set into its north wall are a group of six grey-skinned humanoids. They are busy drinking a clear, oily fluid that pours from the fountain<ch.apos/>s spout into a semi-circular trough. All are barefoot and clad in rags, and they are each armed with a spear and a bow. The only exit from this chamber appears to be an archway set high in the north wall. There is a balcony in front of it that can only be reached by two flights of stairs which rise up on either side of the fountain.</p>
- <p>Quietly you observe the creatures slaking their thirsts, and you try to formulate a way in which you can get past them and reach the balconied exit in the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you possess a Bow, and the Discipline of Magi-magic, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the rank of Grand Crown (and wish to use it), <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess these skills, or a Bow, or if you have yet to attain the required levels of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect221">
- <meta><title>221</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The shock of impact sends you tumbling helplessly into the gorge. You fall several hundred feet before you finally stop spinning, yet before you can unscramble your senses, you are struck from behind by the predatory dragonfly. White hot pain shoots through your body as you are impaled upon the tip of the creature<ch.apos/>s proboscis. You struggle to get free but your strength quickly deserts you. Mercifully, you are spared further agonies when you slip into unconsciousness<ch.emdash/>the prelude to a sleep from which you never awaken.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your quest end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect222">
- <meta><title>222</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have leapt and scrambled your way to the base of the skull-rock, when suddenly a starburst of pain explodes in your head and the taste of blood fills your mouth. You fall face-first to the ground, breaking your nose on impact, but you are numb to the pain; a falling boulder has already snapped your neck in two.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your duel come to an end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect223">
- <meta><title>223</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The blast sends you tumbling backwards into the chamber. The instant you come to rest, you roll over onto your hands and knees and try to scramble back onto your feet. But before you can do so, something heavy strikes your side and knocks you down, pinning your legs to the ground. You reach out to pull yourself free and discover that the heavy object is Black Hawk. Dazed and trembling but otherwise uninjured, you drunkenly help each other to stand.</p>
- <p>Once you are upright, you look around and see that the others have all been knocked flat by the blast. They, too, are now struggling to pull themselves to their feet. Fortunately their innate Kai skills appear to have spared them from serious injury. However, you sense that your inability to detect that the wall was an explosive illusion has shaken their confidence.</p>
- <p><quote>Our prey is far more cunning than I feared,</quote> you say, reproachfully, <quote>but we are Kai and we shall rise to the challenge. Our enemy possesses strong magic and he is capable of masking it well. Yet he chooses to use it to wound and weaken our party, not to kill us. Why this should be I do not know. But from now on we cannot entirely trust our senses to protect us. We must proceed with the utmost caution.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect224">
- <meta><title>224</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You lower yourself through the hole in the floor and quickly give chase. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane sprints through the ruined building, leaping obstacles with a catlike grace that rivals your own legendary agility. He is more familiar with this treacherous cityscape and, despite your best efforts, he soon widens the gap between you until you lose sight of him completely. Yet he cannot shake you off his trail, and you have no difficulty following his tracks as they leave the building and wend their way across the desolate wasteland beyond. You follow his footprints to a gutted building, several storeys high, which is adorned with strangely angular gargoyles. The inside of this crumbling edifice is completely empty and your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail passes through it to a rear exit. As you emerge on the far side, you catch your first breathtaking glimpse of this grim city<ch.apos/>s tallest structure.</p>
- <p>It is a great tower of gleaming black stone which rises from the depths of a fathomless moat and soars to within a hundred feet of the stormy grey clouds. Its pitted surface bristles with metal discs and antennae, streaked with rust, yet there are few windows and you can see but one portal. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is running towards it. He approaches the deep trench that rings the tower<ch.apos/>s base and, as he halts at the edge, a semi-transparent drawbridge extends from beneath the portal. It resembles a flattened beam of solid, green-grey light. This beam bridges the moat and provides your enemy with a means to reach the open tower door.</p>
- <p>Powerless to stop him, you can only stand and watch as he crosses the moat and disappears into the tower. At first glance this stronghold looks to be impregnable, but you have gained access to far tougher fortresses in the past and you do not allow your spirits to be dampened by the difficult task of finding a way into this one.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect225">
- <meta><title>225</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Using your psychic and pathsmanship skills, you focus your attention on the iron pot and determine that the two creatures lurking inside are armed with a variety of weapons. Your acute senses detect the presence of bone, oiled twine and bronze, as well as some volatile chemicals which you cannot identify. Also, you sense that they possess very sensitive hearing and are receptive to goodly auras. There is a very great risk that if you attempt to cross the vault undetected, relying solely on your advanced camouflage skills, these ambushers would be able to detect you using their own innate abilities.</p>
- <choice idref="sect184">If you possess Kai-screen, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 184</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect105">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 105</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect226">
- <meta><title>226</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your Magnakai Disciplines of curing and animal control in a desperate attempt to revive your unconscious mount before it is too late.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score is 20 or higher, add 1 to the number you have picked. If it is 10 or lower, deduct 1.</p>
- <choice idref="sect89">If your total score is 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 89</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect346">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 346</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect227">
- <meta><title>227</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The iron portal grinds to a close behind your back, shutting out the storm so completely that the roar of the wind instantly disappears. The abrupt silence and lower air pressure within this entry chamber makes your ears pop painfully. You lower the hood of your cloak and carefully wipe the sand from your eyes before taking your first tentative steps across the antechamber<ch.apos/>s polished glass floor.</p>
- <p>You pass through a triangular arch and down a ramp that leads to an echoing hallway. The floor and walls of this broad hall are fashioned from a black glassy mineral that is veined with fluorescent greens and sickly purples. You sense strong pulses of psychic power radiating from an open arch at the far side of the hall and your skin prickles with a presentiment of danger. You unsheathe your weapon and move towards the arch with the utmost caution; you are expecting the unexpected.</p>
- <choice idref="sect150"><link-text>Turn to 150</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect228">
- <meta><title>228</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>It takes you nearly half an hour to cleave a path through these magical strands, and the effort leaves you tired and aching with fatigue.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 1 point. If the number you have picked is 5<ch.endash/>9, reduce your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score by 2 points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect316">To continue, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect229">
- <meta><title>229</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Rapidly the pain melts away as your advanced Kai mastery sheathes and protects you from the crushing grip of the vortex. The strands of light unravel themselves and dissolve as you plummet ever nearer to the blazing white heart of this cosmic whirlpool. Then, at the moment you plunge into its core, your senses are obliterated and you are engulfed by total darkness.</p>
- <p>From out of the depths of this cold dark universe there appears a pinpoint of light. You feel yourself being drawn inexorably towards it and, although you struggle to resist, you cannot tear yourself free from its irresistible pull. You feel yourself accelerating towards it until the speck becomes as large as a glowing sun. Then, with an abruptness that leaves you gasping, there is a flash of blue-white light and you find yourself lying spread-eagled upon a bed of moist green foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49"><link-text>Turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect230">
- <meta><title>230</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap from the rent in the plant wall and land safely on a mound of soft black earth. As you struggle to your feet, you notice that this rich soil forms a narrow clearing between the base of the plant and the stems of many others, all of a similar species. Their colossal stalks soar into a dimly amber sky where gigantic flowering heads bend and sway in a humid breeze. Staring at this awe-inspiring canopy, hundreds of feet above, makes you feel incredibly small and vulnerable<ch.emdash/>like a tiny insect. This feeling is made worse when suddenly a huge, horse-sized beetle comes careering through the plant stems. Instinct and quick thinking save your skin. Instantly you freeze and the shiny black monstrosity ignores you and continues its chaotic rampage through this forest of gigantic plants.</p>
- <p>It is several moments before your pulse slows and your senses detect a distant source of energy, somewhere away to the north. You cannot discern its nature or purpose but you feel compelled to investigate. Guided by your tracking skills, you trek through this extraordinary forest for nearly an hour before arriving at a huge clearing where, from the cover of a huge fallen leaf, you gaze upon a spectacular sight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect334"><link-text>Turn to 334</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect231">
- <meta><title>231</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are rapidly approaching the safety of the balcony, yet two of the ghoulish creatures manage to aim and fire their bows at you before you disappear out of their field of fire.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect126">If your total score is now 2 or less, <link-text>turn to 126</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If it is 3 or higher, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect232">
- <meta><title>232</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You throw yourself flat to the ground in a desperate attempt to avoid being hit by this deadly missile.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If your total score is now 0, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If it is 1<ch.endash/>6, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect86">If it is 7 or higher, <link-text>turn to 86</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect233">
- <meta><title>233</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast the Brotherhood spell <spell>Counterspell</spell> at the sticky strands, and watch as they sag and smoulder. Your magic has weakened the fabric of this net, but it has not completely removed it. You are forced to draw a weapon and slash your way through the remaining strands in order to be able to continue along this tunnel. (The fatigue of overcoming this obstacle costs you 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect316"><link-text>Turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect234">
- <meta><title>234</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recall the verses of the Old Kingdom spell <spell>Hold Enemy</spell> and as you whisper these arcane words, you focus upon the eyes of the chained serpent. Instantly, the creature ceases to thrash the water and falls silent and still, enabling you to wade across the deep channel which bisects this cavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect342"><link-text>Turn to 342</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect235">
- <meta><title>235</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel zigzags to the left and right for several hundred yards before it widens at the entrance to a long, low-ceilinged hall. The slabs of stone which have so far paved the tunnel end abruptly at the entrance to this chamber. The floor here appears to be made of a gritty brown soil that gives off a pungent, earthy aroma. You scan its surface but you can see no tracks<ch.emdash/>it looks perfectly smooth.</p>
- <choice idref="sect164">If you possess Kai-alchemy, <link-text>turn to 164</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect236">
- <meta><title>236</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within a few yards of the exit when suddenly you hear gleeful, rasping voices. You have been detected! Your immediate reaction is to bolt for the tunnel and, as you run, arrows whistle down to splash into the mire all around your feet. Anxious to avoid risking being hit by a second volley, you increase your pace as you approach the mouth of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect237">
- <meta><title>237</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel the strength ebbing from your limbs as the pain in your air-starved lungs begins to worsen. You are near to the bottom of the flooded cellar when you manage to unsheathe your weapon and strike out at your rubbery foe.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Ekmakon</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">25</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by five for the duration of this fight, due to your lack of oxygen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect238">
- <meta><title>238</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Baron escorts you and Banedon through the echoing corridors of his castle, past watchful ranks of court guards and Border Rangers, to a hall which is lavishly furnished with Durenese oak and rare silken tapestries. Awaiting you there are a group of young men attired in hooded grey cloaks and close-fitting tunics. You recognize them immediately for they are four of your most promising students<ch.emdash/>Kai Masters Black Hawk, Star Lynx, Blazer and Steel Hand.</p>
- <p><quote>Praise Ishir you<ch.apos/>ve returned to us, Grand Master!</quote> says Black Hawk, laying his right hand across his chest in a formal Kai salute. His companions breathe an audible sigh of relief as they, too, salute you and bow in deference to your rank.</p>
- <p><quote>Stand easy, my lords,</quote> you say, smiling as you motion them to relax. <quote>It warms my heart and gives me strength to be with you again.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>We have heard the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s account,</quote> says red-haired Blazer, <quote>and we await your orders, my lord. Upon your command we will find the impostor and avenge the honour of the Kai.</quote></p>
- <p>You are about to give your answer when a court herald announces the unexpected arrival of Lord Foilan, Reeve-lieutenant of Tyso, the man charged with keeping law and order in the city. Upon entering the hall he is momentarily taken aback by the sight of you standing at the Baron<ch.apos/>s side.</p>
- <p><quote>Calm yourself, Foilan,</quote> says Baron Medar, <quote>this is the true Lone Wolf, not the impostor who stalks our land. What news have you?</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Sire<ch.ellips/> the Kai impostor has been sighted within the hour by rangers in the city<ch.apos/>s North Quarter. They tried to take him captive but he slew two and wounded three of their number before escaping into the old necropolis. The city watch now have both entrances to the necropolis secure<ch.emdash/>he will not be permitted to escape.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Very good, my lord,</quote> retorts the Baron, <quote>so we have him cornered.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>If he<ch.apos/>s gone to ground in the old necropolis,</quote> says Banedon, <quote>he<ch.apos/>ll be hard to track down. The catacombs of that ancient burial field are vast. It could take months to search them all.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Never fear,</quote> you say confidently. <quote>With the help of my able young Kai Masters I shall track and trap this impostor before dawn.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>Aye, my lord,</quote> pipes Star Lynx, elated by the thought of the hunt, <quote>we<ch.apos/>ll flush this cur from his hole before sunrise and bring him to justice.</quote></p>
- <p>Guided by Lord Foilan, you take your leave of Banedon and Baron Medar and depart from the castle on horseback, accompanied by your eager Kai. During your ride through the twisting, lantern-lit streets of Tyso, you learn from Foilan that there are only two ways in and out of the city<ch.apos/>s old necropolis: by its South Gate or by its Western Arch.</p>
- <p><quote>The impostor fled into the burial ground by the South Gate, my lord,</quote> says Foilan, <quote>but that was more<ch.apos/>n an hour ago. He<ch.apos/>ll be deep un<ch.apos/>erground by now.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect337">If you wish to ask Foilan to lead you to the South Gate of the necropolis, <link-text>turn to 337</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect323">If you choose to ask that he take you to the Western Arch instead, <link-text>turn to 323</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect239">
- <meta><title>239</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before your disbelieving eyes there spreads a vast volcanic landscape, punctuated by mountainous dunes of blue-grey sand and columns of towering rock. The amber sky is mottled and banded, like the eye of an angry tiger, and within its fathomless reaches you count twelve multi-coloured moons. These glowing spheres cast their light upon the burnt and crusty soil, lending it a ghostly aspect. Thick clouds, black and turgid, swollen with humid vapours, rear up like shadowy castles upon the far horizon. You can feel coarse grains of sand in the stinging crosswinds and your senses warn that a storm is fast approaching.</p>
- <p>Seeking safer shelter from the coming storm, you get to your feet and cast your eyes across this warm yet unwelcoming land. Away to your right, lying less than a mile distant within a shallow basin of age-worn rock, you see a monstrous temple crafted from opaque black glass. Spikes of crystal embellish its many tiers and atop its highest level there stands a tower, tall and sleek.</p>
- <p>A square of yellow light marks an open portal at the tower<ch.apos/>s base. You glimpse something standing in the doorway and, when you magnify your vision, you see that it is a cloaked warrior silhouetted against the portal<ch.apos/>s fiery glow. Your pulse quickens the instant you recognize the warrior. It is your accursed adversary<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane.</p>
- <p>The compelling urge to move northwards, that you felt shortly after you broke free from the plant stem, returns to haunt your senses. You feel drawn towards the temple as if you are being summoned by a force beyond this world. Your sixth senses scream danger, and every fibre of your being knows it should resist, but you suppress these natural instincts and set off towards the temple. This towering edifice holds many dangers, of that you are in no doubt, yet bravely you resolve to confront and overcome them. Only by doing so can you hope to triumph over your enemy and find a way back to your home world of Magnamund.</p>
- <p>During your difficult trek to the temple, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect251">To continue, <link-text>turn to 251</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect240">
- <meta><title>240</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The doors swing open onto a gallery which encircles three sides of a large banquet hall. Below, through the wooden spindles of the gallery<ch.apos/>s parapet rail, you can see the hall itself. Tapestries drape the walls and a blazing fire crackles in a great stone fireplace that occupies much of the north wall. Your adversary is sitting alone in a throne-like chair at the head of a long banqueting table. A plain, oblong-shaped wooden case lies closed on the table before him.</p>
- <p><quote>Welcome, Lone Wolf<ch.emdash/>so glad you could join me,</quote> he says, his voice oozing sarcasm as he gets to his feet and tilts his head condescendingly towards the gallery. You see his right hand move below the edge of the table and, moments later, you hear the double doors swing shut and lock behind you. Anxiously you cast your eyes around the hall, searching out his hidden accomplices.</p>
- <p><quote>We<ch.apos/>re alone,</quote> snaps Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. He raises a hand and beckons you to descend the gallery stairs to the hall below. <quote>The time has come, Lone Wolf. Our jaunt across Avaros has been leading to this moment of truth.</quote></p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane reaches out to the slim case that is laid on the table before him and he flips open its lid. Inside you see two thin-bladed duelling rapiers couched on a velvet liner.</p>
- <p><quote>We two are as equally matched as these fine blades,</quote> he says, in a voice as syrupy as rancid molasses. <quote>Come, Lone Wolf. I challenge you to duel honourably. Come and choose your weapon and let fate decide who of us will triumph this day.</quote></p>
- <p>You magnify your vision and scrutinize the open case. Your senses confirm that these swords are finely crafted blades. They are not booby-trapped, nor are they magically cursed in any way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect304">If you choose to accept Wolf Bane<ch.apos/>s challenge to a duel to the death using these swords, <link-text>turn to 304</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect85">If you choose to decline his challenge, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect241">
- <meta><title>241</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your psychic command weakens the Bangrol<ch.apos/>s resolve, but it is already too late to turn aside its savage attack. This razor-clawed bird is set on a collision course with your face!</p>
- <combat><enemy>Bangrol</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">34</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">30</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <choice idref="sect142">If you win this combat in two rounds or less, <link-text>turn to 142</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If the combat goes to a third round, do not continue the fight. Instead, <link-text>turn immediately to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect242">
- <meta><title>242</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This lock looks similar to that which operates the door to the temple of Avaros, yet there is one important difference. The mechanism of this lock is genuinely protected by a powerful spell, shielded also by magic to prevent its detection. Your unsuccessful attempt to open the portal triggers this spell and causes a massive bolt of electrical energy to be discharged through your fingers, along your outstretched arm, and deep into your body.</p>
- <p>A blinding flash of light obliterates your vision and an agonising pain explodes in your chest. The pain quickly fades, but it is replaced by a terrifying numbness. You feel weightless, as if you are falling through deep space. Briefly you try to resist this sensation but it is no use. You are falling into a sleep from which you will never awaken.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your duel against Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect243">
- <meta><title>243</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This exit leads to an echoing tunnel constructed from sheeted steel. Its walls and ceiling are lined with iron pipes and braided copper cables for most of its length. You follow this passage for several hundred yards before arriving at another which crosses it from left to right.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73">If you possess Telegnosis, and have attained the rank of Grand Thane, <link-text>turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect347">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 347</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect244">
- <meta><title>244</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The huge dragonfly swoops down like a hunting hawk and attempts to skewer you upon the sharp tip of its spear-like proboscis. You wait until the very last moment before twisting aside to avoid its lunge and, as it streaks past, you deal it a backhanded blow which tears a hole in its silvery wing. The wound is not fatal, but the damage to its wing is enough to render the hungry creature incapable of ascending any higher. It emits a loud buzz of frustration which fades as it slowly spirals away towards a cluster of smaller dragonflies hovering near the centre of the gorge.</p>
- <p>At length you reach the apex of the cavern and soar into the light-filled vent. Upon entering this vast aperture you are buffeted by crosswinds which sweep you precariously towards its rocky lip. Only your Kai mastery and your lightning-swift reactions save you from being crushed to death as you are blown towards its jagged, volcanic edge.</p>
- <p>You survive the impact and are able to haul yourself out of the vent and climb safely onto a surface that you assume to be the roof of the cavern. Seeking shelter from the raging crosswinds, you squeeze yourself into a hollow in the porous rock from where you are able to take stock of your new surroundings. The sight makes you gasp, for it is a view that truly rivals the fertile wonders of the cavern below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect239"><link-text>Turn to 239</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect245">
- <meta><title>245</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai camouflage skills keep you hidden from the unwanted attentions of the creatures below, and you reach the balcony without being seen. Once you are here, you whisper the words which negate the effects of the spell and then you hurry into the archway.</p>
- <p>Use of the Teleport spell costs you 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Remember to make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50">To continue, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect246">
- <meta><title>246</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You use your advanced mastery to find your enemy<ch.apos/>s tracks, and then you clear a path through the dense undergrowth which covers them. You sense that he has used magic to assist his escape, for the foliage here is entangled far tighter than in neighbouring areas of this jungle. Your advanced Discipline flattens the undergrowth as you advance, as if you were being preceded by some invisible battering ram. So effective is your skill that you gain ground on your fleeing enemy.</p>
- <p>As you pass through a copse of toa trees, you hear the sound of running water away to your left. The tracks turn in this direction and you follow them all the way to the banks of a fast-flowing watercourse. Less than fifty yards downstream there is a primitive settlement of huts that form an untidy line along the banks of the stream. You catch sight of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane as he runs into this settlement and hides in the nearest hut<ch.emdash/>a mud-walled hovel with a clay tile roof.</p>
- <choice idref="sect339">If you wish to stay in the jungle and observe the settlement, <link-text>turn to 339</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect285">If you choose to continue your pursuit, you can approach the settlement under cover of the jungle, by <link-text>turning to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect247">
- <meta><title>247</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Steel Hand pulls a rope from his backpack and volunteers to climb the rough-hewn chamber wall. The ceiling above is criss-crossed with buttresses and he is confident that he can affix his rope securely to one of them, thereby enabling your party to swing across the gaping fissure and reach the tunnel on the far side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect119">If you decide to approve Steel Hand<ch.apos/>s suggestion, <link-text>turn to 119</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect189">If you prefer instead to fix the rope yourself, <link-text>turn to 189</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect248">
- <meta><title>248</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leap aside to avoid the missile, yet it alters course in mid-air and clips your shoulder as you fall to the frost-encrusted floor: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Quickly you scramble to your feet and look to see your opponent escaping up the darkened staircase. Calling upon your innate healing skills, you staunch the blood that is trickling freely from your wounded shoulder and hurry towards the stairs in pursuit of your hated foe.</p>
- <choice idref="sect29"><link-text>Turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect249">
- <meta><title>249</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow fells this feline horror, bringing it crashing nose-first to the dirt floor. The body of the beast almost blocks the passageway, forcing you to clamber over it in order to reach the other side. You are struggling across its still-warm carcass when you notice a thick leather collar buckled around its throat. Affixed to the buckle is a curious Black Clasp (if you wish to take this clasp, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry in the pocket of your tunic).</p>
- <choice idref="sect120">To continue, <link-text>turn to 120</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect250">
- <meta><title>250</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you stands a great tower of gleaming black stone which rises from the depths of a fathomless moat and soars to within a hundred feet of the stormy grey clouds. Its pitted surface bristles with metal discs and antennae, streaked with rust, yet there are few windows and you can see but one portal.</p>
- <p>You magnify your vision and note that your adversary<ch.apos/>s tracks lead to a traffic-worn area on this side of the moat, directly opposite the portal. You watch this area for several minutes, and then you see two armour-clad warriors emerge from the ruins and approach it. Suddenly a semi-transparent drawbridge extends from beneath the portal. It resembles a flattened beam of solid, green-grey light, and this beam bridges the moat and provides the two warriors with the means to reach the open tower door.</p>
- <p>You scan the great tower with your senses and you feel sure that your opponent is lurking somewhere within. Powerless to reach him, you can only stand and watch the two warriors as they cross the moat and disappear into the portal, which slides shut behind them. At first glance this stronghold looks to be impregnable, but you have gained access to far tougher fortresses in the past and you refuse to allow your spirits to be dampened by the daunting task of finding a way into this one.</p>
- <choice idref="sect308"><link-text>Turn to 308</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect251">
- <meta><title>251</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>By the time you reach the base of the temple, the storm is howling like a vengeful demon in your ears. Stinging blasts of hot, sand-laden wind whip your face mercilessly and you are forced to lean almost horizontally into the storm to maintain your balance. The storm is increasing in ferocity by the minute. You are sorely aware that you must find cover within an hour at most or you will perish in this hellish blizzard.</p>
- <p>An empty parapeted stairway ascends from the temple<ch.apos/>s lowermost tier to the portal of its crowning tower. The parapet offers you protection from the wind and you climb the many steps bent over, almost on your hands and knees, in order to stay out of the abrasive storm. Before you ascend the last tier, you check to make sure that your adversary is not lying in ambush. The portal is now closed and you can sense no living creature nearby, yet you unsheathe your weapon from your belt and hold it ready in case danger should come from an unsuspected quarter.</p>
- <p>When you reach the portal, you discover that it comprises a seamless sheet of lead-lined iron, many inches thick. You detect a lingering aura of magic around its threshold which makes you wary that a trap may have been set. Yet when you summon your psychic skills to probe deeper, you sense otherwise. You detect that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has deliberately cast an illusion of magic around this portal, no doubt in the hope that it will delay or deter you long enough for the storm to do its work. Confident that the door is not lethal, you examine it more closely. Set flush into the glassy surface of its surrounding arch, you discover an inscription above two squares of dull crimson gemstone. Your sixth senses reveal that by tapping upon each square a correct number of times you will cause the door to open. Cautiously you place your fingers lightly upon the squares and feel the gentle vibration of the door<ch.apos/>s locking mechanism. By concentrating on these vibrations you hope to be able to decipher its locking codes.</p>
- <p>After several minutes you determine that the first code is equal to the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score below which a Grand Master cannot use the Discipline of Kai-surge.</p>
- <p>The second code is equal to the number of villages that lie on the highway between the cities of Holmgard and Ragadorn.</p>
- <p>In order to determine the numbers that will open the door to the temple, consult the map and games rules. When you think you know the two-digit solution, turn to the entry that is the same number as your answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect283">If you cannot decipher the codes, <link-text>turn instead to 283</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect252">
- <meta><title>252</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you enter the new passage, the concealed panel slides shut behind you. Almost immediately, another panel slides out of the metal wall and seals off the passage ahead, trapping you in the cell-like space between. You throw yourself against the steel door and run your hands over its smooth surface, searching frantically for a means to escape. Your efforts are made all the more urgent when suddenly a loud hissing sound fills your ears; it is the sound of the air being extracted from this cell.</p>
- <p>Gasping for breath, you turn around to search the opposite panel. Your hopes rise when you see a combination lock set flush into its surface. It is unlike the lock which secured the entrance to the temple of Avaros, but your Kai senses soon detect how it operates. The lock is inlaid with five dials in two groups. There is one group of three and one group of two. Each dial indicates a number. One dial however, in the group of two, is set to zero. By turning this dial to the correct number you will cause the lock to disengage.</p>
- <p>Study the following sequence of numbers carefully.</p>
- <p>When you think you know what the correct solution is, turn to the page that is the same as your answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect303">If you guess incorrectly, or if you cannot answer this puzzle, <link-text>turn instead to 303</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect253">
- <meta><title>253</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Having been detected, your immediate reaction is to bolt for the exit and, as you run, arrows whistle down to splash into the mire all around your feet. Anxious to avoid risking being hit by a second volley, you increase your pace as you approach the mouth of the tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect70"><link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect254">
- <meta><title>254</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You pass through the arch and enter a long passageway that is crafted from sheets of silver and steel. A panel of translucent mineral is embedded into the entire length of the ceiling, illuminating the tunnel with a harsh phosphorescent light. You have covered several hundred yards before you see a small alcove set into the wall. A stream of clear water pours from a pipe protruding from the alcove, and drains away into a grille set into the floor. The sight and sound of the trickling makes you thirsty for a drink.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to stop and take a drink from this pipe, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect336">If you choose not to drink, <link-text>turn to 336</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect255">
- <meta><title>255</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Naar moves from the dais and commands Kekataag to cease his psychic assault. The murderous leviathan complies at once with his fell master<ch.apos/>s wishes. For the first time since he strode into this throne hall, Kekataag turns to face Naar. His intent is to bow his huge form in dutiful deference to his master<ch.apos/>s authority, but this formality is soon forgotten when his psychic powers detect the presence of Alyss. The realization that she is here makes the warrior bellow with supernatural rage. The deafening sound galvanizes Alyss into action; she leaps towards the plinth and places both of her hands upon the surface of the Moonstone. Instantly a whirling hole appears in the smoky wall of the throne hall; it is the unmistakable mouth of a Shadow Gate.</p>
- <p><quote>Flee, Lone Wolf,</quote> she cries, <quote>flee to your homeland before it<ch.apos/>s too late!</quote></p>
- <p>Bravely she stands her ground, her hands clasped upon the glowing Moonstone, as Kekataag and Naar advance upon her from two sides. You are deeply moved by the courage of this enigmatic being; it seems she is prepared to sacrifice her immortality that you might escape alive from this terrible place.</p>
- <choice idref="sect282">If you wish to obey her command and enter the whirling Shadow Gate, <link-text>turn to 282</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect343">If you choose to stay and fight the Dark God and his evil avenger, <link-text>turn to 343</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect256">
- <meta><title>256</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your advanced Kai senses detect faint magical energies radiating from a large chunk of rubble which lies in the open doorway to this tomb. Cautiously you move nearer to inspect the slab of stone and discover an intricate design scratched upon its surface. It has been smeared with dirt and a magical spell of shielding has been placed upon it to disguise its true purpose, yet you immediately realize what it is and you recoil from the slab, hurriedly retreating a dozen paces. It is a glyph of power: a magical booby trap that has been expertly camouflaged to keep it secret. If anyone or anything were to step upon or pass over this glyph, the energy contained within it would be released in one devastating instant.</p>
- <p>You warn the others of what you have found and tell them to retreat with you to a safe distance. From the cover of a gravestone, several yards from the tomb, you instruct Star Lynx to pick up a rock and hurl it through the open doorway. He selects an apple-sized chunk of granite and lobs it accurately into the tomb.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect211">If the number you have chosen is 1<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 211</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text></choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect257">
- <meta><title>257</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai mastery skills and your sheer will to survive save you from succumbing to a grisly death in this morass. After an agonizing ordeal, you finally reach the door at the end of the hall and haul yourself through it. Aching with fatigue (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), you lie on the solid flagstones for several minutes until you regain sufficient strength to be able to continue your hunt for Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane.</p>
- <p>You can feel a warm breeze wafting along this hall and you sense that it comes from a stairwell at the far end. When you investigate it, you rediscover Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s footprints on the stone steps. You cast your hands over them and detect that this is not a false trail: your enemy passed this way sometime within the last hour.</p>
- <p>Slowly you ascend the stairs and arrive at the arched entrance to a large, vaulted stone chamber. Gathered around a fountain set into its north wall are a group of six grey-skinned humanoids. They are busy drinking a clear, oily fluid that pours from the fountain<ch.apos/>s spout into a semi-circular trough. All are barefoot and clad in rags, and they are each armed with a spear and a bow. The only exit from this chamber appears to be an archway set high in the north wall. There is a balcony in front of it that can only be reached by two flights of stairs which rise up on either side of the fountain.</p>
- <p>Quietly you observe the creatures slaking their thirsts, and you try to formulate a way in which you can get past them and reach the balconied exit in the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you possess a Bow, and the Discipline of Magi-magic, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the rank of Grand Crown (and wish to use it), <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess these skills, or a Bow, or if you have yet to attain the required levels of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect258">
- <meta><title>258</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tracks lead out of the tunnel and across a clearing before disappearing into the jungle perimeter. Deeply suspicious, you peer through the curtain of vines and scan along the jungle<ch.apos/>s edge for signs of your adversary.</p>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you possess Grand Pathsmanship and Grand Huntmastery, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect317">If you do not possess both of these Grand Master Disciplines, <link-text>turn to 317</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect259">
- <meta><title>259</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A white-hot spike of pain penetrates deep into your chest as the onrushing bolt hits you and slams you against the moving wall of the shaft: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>If you survive this wounding, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">To continue, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect260">
- <meta><title>260</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Baron Caldar escorts you and Banedon to the roof of his castle<ch.apos/>s main tower where, hovering above, you see the great gleaming hull of the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s skyship<ch.emdash/>Cloud Dancer. At Banedon<ch.apos/>s signal a cage is lowered from the stern of this magical vessel and, after bidding farewell to the Baron, you are both hoisted aboard. The crew, some of whom are survivors from his previous skyship<ch.emdash/>Skyrider<ch.emdash/>are clearly agitated by your unexpected appearance; the sibilant hiss of their fearful whispers echoes softly along the deck. But immediately Banedon vouches that you are not the impostor who has terrorized Sommerlund these past few weeks and this swiftly allays his crew<ch.apos/>s suspicions. As you accompany the Guildmaster to his quarters, the mood of the men and dwarves of the ship<ch.apos/>s complement changes. Respectfully they salute you and welcome you with pride aboard their wondrous craft.</p>
- <p>The Cloud Dancer sets sail and follows a south-westerly bearing for the city of Tyso, over one hundred miles distant. The night sky is clear and Javano, the ship<ch.apos/>s pilot, is confident that you will arrive within the hour. During the brief voyage, Banedon communicates magically with the elders of his Brotherhood in Toran. He informs them of your safe return and tells them of your plans to track down the impostor. In response they assure him that word of your return will be conveyed at once to the King in Holmgard, and to your beleaguered kinsmen at the Kai Monastery. This glad news does much to lift your bruised spirits.</p>
- <p>It seems as if you have been aboard the Cloud Dancer for no more than a few minutes when a message arrives from the forward lookout: <quote>Tyso lights due south</quote>. You leave Banedon<ch.apos/>s comfortable quarters below deck and accompany him to the prow rail from where you catch your first aerial glimpse of the distant city-port. The warm lantern light of hovels and taverns shimmers like a captive cluster of stars within the city<ch.apos/>s protective wall. At the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s command, Javano begins the skyship<ch.apos/>s descent and, as the twinkling lights loom larger, you are able to make out the silhouette of a grand castle that is perched on a headland overlooking the harbour.</p>
- <p><quote>There<ch.apos/>s our destination, Lone Wolf,</quote> says Banedon, cheerfully, <quote>the castle of Baron Tor Medar<ch.emdash/>the Seneschal of Tyso.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect261">
- <meta><title>261</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now you can hear the creature loping towards you. The squeal of its metal joints merges with the whirring clack of its great iron jaw. The sound unnerves you and, for a terrifying moment, your sweat-slick fingers cannot grip the disc in your tunic pocket. Then you have it and quickly you insert it into the slot in the wall.</p>
- <p>The door opens with a hiss. You rush forward and immediately sidestep to place a solid wall between you and the steel monster. The door slides shut and, a few moments later, you feel a shudder run through the wall as the creature slams head-first into the portal and shatters its skull.</p>
- <p>Your swift escape may have saved your life, but in your haste to evade the mechanical wolf you left behind the key which opened the portal (erase the Iron Disc from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <choice idref="sect83">To continue, <link-text>turn to 83</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect262">
- <meta><title>262</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The tunnel twists and turns for several hundred yards before entering a large vault that is knee-deep in brackish grey slime. A huge black iron pot hangs suspended by a large chain in the middle of the vault, ten feet above the surface of the slimy floor. The oily chain runs around a large wheel fixed near the ceiling and drops through the centre of a slit, high up in the opposite wall. Carefully you approach the entrance to the vault and, using your Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, you detect that the pot hides two creatures. They are lying in ambush. There is an exit on the far side of the vault, but in order to reach it you will have to pass directly below the hanging pot. Using the cover of shadows at the entrance to the vault, you look to the far exit and consider how you can reach it unscathed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you possess the Discipline of Assimilance, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, or higher, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect263">
- <meta><title>263</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature that is diving towards you suddenly freezes in mid-air. The morbid fear of death that had gripped your heart quickly evaporates, but you are left with a feeling of deep unease as your Kai senses detect that something extraordinary is taking place around you. The hall has become filled with a deadly silence and everything, including the tongues of flame trailing from the creature<ch.apos/>s sword, and the blazing fire in the grate, is utterly frozen. It is as if time itself is standing still.</p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is a frozen statue, his face fixed in the malevolent sneer he was wearing in gleeful anticipation that you were about to meet your doom. You are beginning to think that perhaps you have been killed and that this is life after death, when suddenly you glimpse a blurred movement at the corner of your eye.</p>
- <p>From out of the shadows cast by the gallery steps a young teenage girl, dressed in a leather jerkin and threadbare trousers. You recognize her at once<ch.emdash/>it is Alyss, the strange enigmatic creature who helped you once before, during your confrontation with the Demoness Shamath.</p>
- <p><quote>Wh<ch.ellips/> what are you doing here?</quote> you stammer. Casually she walks towards you and reaches up to touch a finger to the frozen fiery sword clutched in the taloned hands of Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s winged minion.</p>
- <p><quote>Why, doing what I like doing best,</quote> she replies, airily, <quote>minding other people<ch.apos/>s business.</quote></p>
- <p>She prods the frozen sword with the tip of her finger and there is a gentle Pop! Instantly the creature disappears.</p>
- <p><quote>I do hate cheats,</quote> she says, as she wanders over to where Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is standing immobile. Cheekily she pokes out her tongue at him and then she spins on her heel to face you.</p>
- <p><quote>Now, perhaps you can finish what you came here to do, Lone Wolf,</quote> she says, and claps her hands three times. A sudden rush of noise assails your ears and your senses reel as the reality of time comes flooding back into the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect296"><link-text>Turn to 296</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect264">
- <meta><title>264</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The thick, trunk-like stamen is covered with fine hairs which help you to make the long climb towards the amber-coloured light far above. However, as you get nearer to the light, the stamen hairs become coated with lumps of sticky, sweet-smelling yellow pollen. These pollen clusters hamper your progress as you have to struggle to unglue yourself from them every time you shift your position.</p>
- <p>You are nearing the stamen<ch.apos/>s bud-like top when you become aware of a distant buzzing sound. Rapidly the noise gets louder until you are suddenly plunged into semi-darkness. A huge winged insect is hovering directly above you, its multi-coloured body blotting out most of the pale amber sky. It lunges back and forth with its great head as it sucks away clumps of pollen from surrounding stamens with its long, spear-like proboscis. Then the creature detects your presence and the deafening noise of its wings changes pitch. It rises several feet above the stamen and hovers there for a few moments while it studies you with massive composite eyes. Unfortunately it takes only a few seconds for the creature to decide that it wants to vary its diet of pollen. With a sinister nod of its head, it extends its proboscis and then stabs its sticky point towards your unprotected back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect135">If you wish to attempt to defend yourself from this creature<ch.apos/>s attack, <link-text>turn to 135</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect214">If you decide to attempt to evade it, <link-text>turn to 214</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect265">
- <meta><title>265</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon your Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen to repel this psychic attack, but your defence is not sufficient enough to completely protect the fabric of your mind: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>The surprise assault on your mental defences has bought this castle guardian the precious few seconds it needs in which to advance upon you. As the pain in your head recedes, you see the armoured warrior striding towards you with its sword raised high, poised ready to deal you a mighty blow.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Meghanic</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">48</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This being is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect338">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 338</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect266">
- <meta><title>266</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The arrows splash into the mire, dangerously close to where you are standing. You sense that the volley was not aimed at you; it was let loose in the hope of hitting you by chance. You suspect that the creatures who fired these arrows have an exceptional hearing ability, and rather than risk them getting lucky with their second volley, you decide to throw caution to the wind and make a dash for the exit tunnel.</p>
- <choice idref="sect309"><link-text>Turn to 309</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect267">
- <meta><title>267</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There is no door to the entrance of this derelict dwelling and, after checking that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has left no unwelcome surprises, you enter and find a foyer strewn with mouldering masonry. Two staircases lead off this small entrance hall; one ascends to the floor above, the other descends to the basement. The stairwell down is blocked by timbers and sheets of crumpled iron. It shows no signs of having been disturbed for years and so you choose instead to explore the upper floor.</p>
- <p>At the top of the stairs you make an unexpected discovery. You emerge into a corridor that is lined with a seamless metallic skin. Unlike the dereliction you have so far witnessed, the walls and floor of this passage bear no signs of neglect or corrosion. They gleam like highly polished steel.</p>
- <p>You explore the corridor and come to what, at first sight, appears to be a dead end. Then you hear a loud hiss and a concealed panel slides open to reveal another steel-lined passageway. You pause to examine the panel but you can detect no traps or residues of magic.</p>
- <choice idref="sect252">If you wish to enter the new passageway, <link-text>turn to 252</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect274">If you choose not to enter, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect268">
- <meta><title>268</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The buttress and the rope plummet into the fissure and are lost to an underground river far below. For a few terrible seconds Steel Hand swings precariously from the ceiling, then his fingers lose their purchase and he, too, tumbles into the abyss.</p>
- <p>You and your young Kai comrades rush to the edge of the fissure, fearing the worst. But Steel Hand has not fallen into the raging river to be carried out to sea; he is still in sight. Your infravision reveals him to be lying on a rocky ledge less than twenty feet below. He has been knocked unconscious by the fall but thankfully he is still alive.</p>
- <p>It takes nearly an hour to retrieve Steel Hand from the ledge and then cross safely to the far side of the fissure. During this time, unless you possess Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p><ch.apos/>Come, my lords,<ch.apos/> you say, mindful of the unwelcome dangers and delays you have so far endured, <ch.apos/>we must press on. We<ch.apos/>ve yet to find our quarry<ch.apos/>s trail.<ch.apos/></p>
- <choice idref="sect160"><link-text>Turn to 160</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect269">
- <meta><title>269</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>With mounting dread, you watch as the seconds tick away. When the illuminated display reaches zero, there is a sun-like burst of light which totally obliterates your senses; it is the last light that you ever see. The bomb detonates and explodes with terrific force, destroying the dragonfly pens and several of the upper storeys of the tower.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your struggle against Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has ended in defeat, leaving the way clear for Naar<ch.apos/>s forces to invade and conquer Magnamund. Your life and your duel end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect270">
- <meta><title>270</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly you spit out the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Invisible Shield</spell> and sweep your hand in a circle before your face. You complete the spell barely seconds before the deadly shaft splinters against this magical protection and falls in pieces to the ground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect133"><link-text>Turn to 133</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect271">
- <meta><title>271</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your search uncovers many interesting and rare items, but few which are of any practical value. The only item worthy of consideration is a valuable goblet, crafted from gold. (If you wish to take and keep this Gold Cup, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">To continue, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect272">
- <meta><title>272</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Strength</spell>, and feel a wave of vibrant energy course through your body and limbs. Charged with the power of this spell, you take a firm grip of the portcullis with both hands and lift with all your might. The heavy iron portal creaks and shudders, then its hidden counterweights bow to your efforts. The portal rises and you are able to make a swift escape from the clutches of the chained serpent.</p>
- <p>You retrace your steps along the tunnel, passing the place where you first appeared in this subterranean labyrinth, and continue on until you reach a large vault that is knee-deep in brackish grey slime. A huge black iron pot hangs suspended by a large chain in the middle of the vault, ten feet above the surface of the slimy floor. The oily chain runs around a large wheel fixed near the ceiling and drops through the centre of a slit, high up in the opposite wall. Carefully you approach the entrance to the vault and, using your Magnakai Discipline of Pathsmanship, you detect that the pot hides two creatures. They are lying in ambush. There is an exit on the far side of the vault, but in order to reach it you will have to pass directly below the hanging pot. Using the cover of shadows at the entrance to the vault, you look to the far exit and consider how you can reach it unscathed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect94">If you possess the Discipline of Assimilance, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, or higher, <link-text>turn to 94</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect225">If you do not possess this skill, or if you have yet to attain this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 225</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect273">
- <meta><title>273</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You feel your throat tightening as the air is sucked out of the chamber. The whirling flames of the fire have rapidly transformed into a raging vortex which is dragging into its core every loose item in the banquet hall. You and Alyss hang on to the banister rail affixed to the gallery stairs, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain your grip. Chairs, tapestries, tables and other furniture batter you as they tumble past to be sucked into the vortex (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Then the rail collapses and the two of you are drawn into the raging heart of this fearsome whirlpool.</p>
- <choice idref="sect170"><link-text>Turn to 170</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect274">
- <meta><title>274</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You return to the stairs and descend to the foyer. Mindful of your enemy<ch.apos/>s skills of deception and illusion, you take a closer look at the debris which blocks the stairs leading down. But you cannot detect any tracks or evidence that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has come this way. You are about to abandon the stairwell and leave the building when something catches your eye. Protruding from the dust that covers the top step is a small disc of iron engraved with runic symbols. (If you wish to keep this Iron Disc, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">To leave the building and continue, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Lining the walls of this passage are countless thousands of small alcoves, each one occupied by the skull of an ancient Tysoan. Occasionally this macabre display is punctuated by a sealed tomb or burial urn, but in the main the parade of mirthless skulls seems to go on forever.</p>
- <p>At length you come to a circular vault where, unexpectedly, you can hear the sound of the sea. Using your infravision to scan the dark chamber before entering, you note that a wide section of its stone floor has collapsed. The sound of the sea breaking against a distant shoreline wells up from this gaping hollow.</p>
- <p>With caution guiding your step, you enter the inky-black chamber and inch your way to the edge of the fissure. You can detect no living creatures or other sources of heat, but using your Kai senses you are able to determine that the hollow is more than one hundred feet deep. There is one exit from the vault, but it lies over forty feet away, on the opposite side of the fissure.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect247">If you do not possess this skill, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 247</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect276">
- <meta><title>276</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You make your way towards the avenue and select an ideal place from where you can launch an ambush. Twenty minutes tick by before you see two armoured humanoids approaching. One walks several paces behind the other, but both are on their way towards the tower. At first you are discouraged that there are two, fearing that an ambush will be harder to effect. But as they draw closer you note that neither appears to be carrying weapons.</p>
- <p>You let the first warrior pass and then you strike the second one, dragging him off the street and into the dark alley where you have been lying in wait. A sharp blow beneath the chin-guard of his helmet renders him unconscious, and swiftly you begin to strip away his armour. All is going to plan until a scraping noise behind alerts you to trouble. His companion has noticed that he is alone and has retraced his steps to investigate the sudden disappearance of his brother-in-arms.</p>
- <p>You are holding an armoured breastplate in both hands when he comes striding into the alley. You hurl it at him, hoping to buy yourself a few precious seconds in which you can unsheathe your weapon, but the warrior bats it aside and attempts to close his hands around your throat.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Manoyd (with power gloves)</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">40</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Unless you possess Grand Weaponmastery, and have attained the rank of Grand Crown, you must reduce your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> by four for the duration of this fight.</p>
- <choice idref="sect289">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 289</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect277">
- <meta><title>277</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You speak the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your right index finger at the iron pot. There is a flash of bluish light and then an arc of crackling electricity leaps from your finger to strike the top of the pot, blowing a fist-sized chunk of rusty iron out of its turned rim. One of the creatures is killed instantly by the blast and the other is stunned when the electrical charge is earthed along the supporting chain.</p>
- <p>You sense that the surviving creature is only temporarily incapacitated; it will soon revive and it will be sure to attempt to avenge its dead companion by shooting at you with its bow. Mindful of the pending danger, you hurriedly examine the portal for a lever or some other means to make it rise.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18"><link-text>Turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect278">
- <meta><title>278</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You escape through the steel roof of the tower and catch a fleeting glimpse of the rainswept city far below. Suddenly there is a tremendous flash, followed almost immediately by the concussive blast from an enormous explosion. A debris-laden shockwave hits you from behind, flattens you against the dragonfly<ch.apos/>s crusty neck, and leaves you bleeding from several minor wounds: lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Fortunately your winged mount survives the shockwave unscathed and is propelled upwards at greater speed into the base of the thick storm clouds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect279">
- <meta><title>279</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You press the index finger of your right hand against the plant wall and whisper the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell>. You feel a tingling sensation run down your arm and then a crackling flame ignites at your fingertip which burns a neat hole through the stem. Then, quite suddenly, the sap within the plant wall catches fire and within seconds you find yourself trapped inside a roaring cocoon of fire.</p>
- <p>The highly flammable sap feeds the flames, and the temperature rapidly increases until the inside of the stem becomes as hot as a blazing furnace. Unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus, you lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points before the flames die down and you are able to burst free from the smouldering stem.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect280">
- <meta><title>280</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Come, Grand Master. You<ch.apos/>re going home,</quote> she says, and she takes you by the hand and leads you to the middle of the banquet hall, to a place directly opposite the great fireplace. <quote>But first we must make preparations for the journey.</quote></p>
- <p>Alyss then proceeds to tell you to use your advanced Kai mastery to mask the goodly aura that radiates naturally from your mind and body. Having done as she requests, she touches the platinum amulet which you wear around your neck and smiles.</p>
- <p><quote>Good, good,</quote> she enthuses, <quote>this bauble will take care of the rest.</quote></p>
- <p>She then takes a piece of limestone from her pocket and proceeds to draw a pentagram on the floor of the hall. She has half-completed the complicated design when suddenly she becomes agitated.</p>
- <p><quote>Must hurry,</quote> she mumbles, <quote>must, must hurry.</quote></p>
- <p>Suddenly the fire in the hearth flares brightly. The flames begin to grow and whirl and slowly change colour.</p>
- <p><quote>It<ch.apos/>s no good!</quote> cries Alyss, tearful with frustration. Angrily she casts her chunk of crumbling limestone at the roaring flames and then leaps to her feet and comes rushing to your side. <quote>It<ch.apos/>s too late!</quote> she screams, her voice now barely audible above the unnatural crackling of the fire, <quote>Naar is summoning his champion!</quote></p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect273">If the number you have picked is 0<ch.endash/>4, <link-text>turn to 273</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect67">If it is 5<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect281">
- <meta><title>281</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw upon all of your defensive Kai Disciplines to protect you from the effects of the vortex. The agony abates, but the effort depletes your reserves of mental and physical stamina: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>As the pain melts, so the strands of light unravel themselves and dissolve. As the silvery cloud disappears, you find yourself plummeting ever nearer to the blazing heart of this cosmic whirlpool. Then, at the moment you plunge into its core, your senses are obliterated and you are engulfed by a total darkness.</p>
- <p>From out of the depths of this cold dark universe there appears a pinpoint of light. You feel yourself being drawn inexorably towards it and, although you struggle to resist, you cannot tear yourself free from its irresistible pull. You feel yourself accelerating towards it until the speck becomes as large as a glowing sun. Then, with an abruptness that leaves you gasping, there is a flash of blue-white light and you find yourself lying spread-eagled upon a bed of moist green foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49"><link-text>Turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect282">
- <meta><title>282</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you scramble across the throne hall and leap towards the swirling maw of this supernatural portal, but your entry is barred by a horde of shrieking horrors which materialize from the smoke surrounding the circumference of the Shadow Gate. Immediately you recognize them and your heart sinks<ch.emdash/>they are Crypt Spawn.</p>
- <p>Now Naar himself is aware of your true identity and he is determined not to let you escape from the Plane of Darkness.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect123">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 123</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect283">
- <meta><title>283</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unable to decipher the code, you decide instead to attempt to dismantle the locking mechanism. Using the buckle of your belt, you work it between the gemstone lockplates and attempt to prise them away. It is a difficult and delicate procedure, made doubly so by the increasing ferocity of the storm which is tearing through the fabric of your cloak and tunic: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>After several painful minutes you succeed in lifting off the gemstone plates. But this does not release the locking mechanism; it simply exposes it to the elements. In order to force the door to open you must now physically destroy the exposed mechanism.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Temple Portal</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">50</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>Conduct a combat in the usual manner. Any <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by yourself result from the effects of prolonged exposure to the storm.</p>
- <choice idref="sect157">If you succeed in reducing the door<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score to zero before losing all of your own, <link-text>turn to 157</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect284">
- <meta><title>284</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Nimbly you dodge aside, but droplets of the creature<ch.apos/>s drool splash your arm and shoulder to burn straight through your tunic with frightening speed. You immediately call upon your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus for protection against this acidic saliva, but the substance is highly corrosive and your innate skill is hard-pressed to provide you with adequate protection.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). The resultant score is equal to the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you lose due to the effects of this acid on your skin and muscle.</p>
- <choice idref="sect141">If you wish to attack the creature that has spat at you, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect91">If you wish to evade this creature, <link-text>turn to 91</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect285">
- <meta><title>285</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you approach the settlement, your keen senses absorbing every detail. The line of deserted mud huts look innocuous, but the words of the voice of Naar still linger in your memory. This humid jungle realm lies within his domain; it is therefore reasonable to expect the inhabitants of this place to be wholly devoted to the cause of Evil.</p>
- <p>You reach the edge of the undergrowth and pause to assess potential threats. The huts are semi-derelict, all bearing some signs of neglect and decay. The clay-tiled hovel that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane entered appears to be empty, but when you focus upon its open doorway, you see what appears to be a trench cut into the earth. You magnify your vision and at once you see steps in the wall of this excavation. Your heart sinks: Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has escaped underground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to enter the hut and follow your enemy without further delay, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect188">If you choose to investigate the hut to check for traps, <link-text>turn to 188</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect286">
- <meta><title>286</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Obediently, Black Hawk stands aside. You cast your eyes over the surface of the north wall for one last time, to satisfy yourself that you can detect no lurking traps, and when you are fully confident that it is safe you take up your weapon and put it to the crack in the wall. Because you are so sure that there is no threat, what occurs in the next instant is doubly shocking.</p>
- <p>You press forward with all of your weight yet, unexpectedly, you meet with no resistance. Your weapon disappears into the wall and you stumble forward to plunge through seemingly solid granite. For a second or two you are consumed by total darkness, then an explosion of white light obliterates your vision and you feel yourself being hurled backwards by a searing wave of heat.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> (0=10). Now add 2 to the number you have picked. The resultant total is the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points you have lost as a consequence of this explosion.</p>
- <choice idref="sect154">Make the appropriate adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> and continue by <link-text>turning to 154</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect287">
- <meta><title>287</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you climb the stairs, you are filled with a growing sense of uncertainty and dread as you ponder what may yet await you in this alien tower. However, these feelings of impending doom are quickly banished when you reach the third level, for here you pick up the trail of your adversary. Your tracking skills determine that his trail is fresh and you pursue it eagerly.</p>
- <p>You pass through a maze of empty passageways which lead eventually to a large, circular hall. Cautiously you approach the entrance and peer inside. Your tracking skills and your curiosity are handsomely rewarded when you see Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane; he is standing alone and he is unaware that you have found him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect288">
- <meta><title>288</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Quickly you take the incendiary from your Backpack, prime its crude detonator, and hurl it at the hanging cauldron. There is a splash of oily yellow flame as it impacts and smashes against the lip of the iron pot, then, in a terrifying instant, the two reptilians are consumed in a roaring ball of fire. You watch with shocked fascination as they shriek their last and tumble from the pot to splash, like two fiery meteors, into the mire.</p>
- <p>You turn your eyes away from the terrible sight and, to your amazement, you see the portal beginning to rise of its own accord. You wait until it has risen a few feet and you are sure that no enemy awaits you on the other side, then you duck under the heavy iron plate and hurry into the tunnel beyond. As you run, you hear the portal slamming shut behind you with a dull reverberating boom, sealing away the smouldering remains of your two would-be assassins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect289">
- <meta><title>289</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You drag the body of the dead Manoyd into the ruins of a house and cover it with rubble. Then you put on the armour, which you have stripped from the unconscious Manoyd, and lower the visor of the helmet to hide your face. A black haversack taken from the warrior provides you with a convenient means to hide your own weapons, equipment, and cloak.</p>
- <p>After checking that the avenue is clear, you emerge from the alley and stride boldly towards the tower. On reaching the edge of this windswept canyon, you hear the distant clang of a bell and watch as the drawbridge extends from beneath the portal to span the chasm. You march across, trying not to look down through the semi-transparent bridge to the dark floor of the moat that lies thousands of feet below, and enter the tower<ch.apos/>s great portal.</p>
- <choice idref="sect124"><link-text>Turn to 124</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect290">
- <meta><title>290</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your experienced eye is drawn to the chamber<ch.apos/>s north wall. You step closer and magnify your vision, which enables you to detect two faint hairline cracks in the damp granite surface. They run vertically from the floor to the ceiling and appear to be the outline of a secret panel. But all is not what it seems. You utter the words of the advanced Brotherhood spell <spell>See Illusion</spell>, and the truth is swiftly revealed. The panel does not exist: it is a skilful illusion. With the memory of the power-glyph you encountered at the tomb entrance still fresh in your mind, you command your companions to stand with their backs against the south wall. Then you scoop a handful of gravel from the floor and hurl it at the north wall. There is a sudden flash of blue-white light which melts into a shower of hissing sparks as the gravel passes through the illusory panel, dissipating its energy.</p>
- <p><quote>Just as I thought<ch.emdash/>another trick!</quote> you say, as you unsheathe your weapon and signal to your comrades to follow your lead. <quote>Be on your guard, my lords. We<ch.apos/>re hunting a cunning foe.</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect345"><link-text>Turn to 345</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect291">
- <meta><title>291</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Unfortunately your attempt to evade this magical missile is unsuccessful. A white-hot spike of pain penetrates deep into your chest as the onrushing bolt hits you and slams you against the moving wall of the shaft: lose 6 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>If you survive this wounding, adjust your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">To continue, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect292">
- <meta><title>292</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You extend your right arm and point your hand at the stone trough. Then you speak the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and a familiar tingle rushes along your arm to explode into life at the tip of your index finger. A bolt of blue fire arcs towards the trough and, with a deafening wumph!, it ignites the liquid to create a blazing fireball. Greedily, this guttering ball of flame consumes the creatures who are gathered around the lip of the trough.</p>
- <choice idref="sect204"><link-text>Turn to 204</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect293">
- <meta><title>293</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You concentrate upon the entrance to the tunnel as you recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Teleport</spell>. You feel a power building deep within your body, a power you are able to contain until the moment comes to release it. As soon as the writhing giant serpent twists away from the tunnel mouth, you channel the spell<ch.apos/>s energy into propelling you across the cavern. Within seconds you are able to reach the safety of the exit and make your escape unscathed.</p>
- <p>Use of this spell drains you of 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. Make the necessary adjustment to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> before continuing.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect294">
- <meta><title>294</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Less than a hundred paces along this tunnel you come to a narrow hall which is lined with shelves. These thin and ancient beams sag under the weight of a strange collection of bones, stones, shells, ornaments and other curios. The uppermost shelves are crowded with books, all old, dusty and damaged.</p>
- <p>You are advancing past the shelves, towards a door at the end of the hall, when a strange sound makes you freeze in your tracks. Something is moving behind the books on the top shelf. You tilt your head to look and find yourself staring into the corpse-green eyes of a round, pudding-shaped creature. It seems to be smiling, but then it purses its bulbous lips and spits a stream of smoky-coloured fluid at your face.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect284">If your total is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 284</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect117">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 117</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect295">
- <meta><title>295</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature<ch.apos/>s sharp proboscis penetrates your Backpack and gouges a furrow of skin from your ribs: lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Before it can strike again, you prise yourself out of the sticky cluster and retreat back along the stamen until you are out of harm<ch.apos/>s way. Excited by the taste of your warm blood, the giant insect stabs and slashes wildly, splintering stamen tips and drenching you with showers of sticky pollen. Fortunately, the span of its gigantic wings and the narrowness of the plant<ch.apos/>s corolla conspire to prevent it from reaching deeper into the plant and you are able to escape without sustaining further injuries.</p>
- <choice idref="sect305"><link-text>Turn to 305</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect296">
- <meta><title>296</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The triumphant sneer dies on Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s face the instant he realizes that his winged minion has disappeared and that you are still alive. He recoils, his mouth gaping and his eyes wide with disbelief. As he retreats, he brushes against Alyss and utters a yelp of fright. His abject fear, however, soon transforms into blind fury.</p>
- <p><quote>You!</quote> he cries, accusingly. Fuelled by rage, he raises his sword in readiness to slash at her face. You rush forward and block his vicious blow, then you twist the blade from his grasp and, with one swift thrust, you skewer his heart upon the tip of your rapier.</p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane regards the blade protruding from his chest with a look of utter astonishment. Then, with a curse on his blood-flecked lips, he drops to his knees and crumples lifelessly to the floor.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect297">
- <meta><title>297</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Warily you approach the settlement, your keen senses absorbing every detail. The line of deserted mud huts look innocuous but the words of the voice of Naar still linger in your memory. This humid jungle realm lies within his domain; it is therefore reasonable to expect that the inhabitants of this place will be wholly devoted to the cause of Evil.</p>
- <p>You reach the edge of the undergrowth and pause to assess potential threats. The huts are semi-derelict, all bearing some signs of neglect and decay. The nearest one is a clay-tiled hovel that, like the others, appears to be empty. But when you focus upon its open doorway you see that a trench has been cut into its earth floor. You magnify your vision and at once you detect steps in the wall of this excavation, leading underground.</p>
- <choice idref="sect161">If you wish to enter the hut and investigate where these steps lead to, <link-text>turn to 161</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you choose instead to check the hut for traps, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect298">
- <meta><title>298</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This tunnel gradually descends by slope and stair through deeper levels of the catacombs. You detect no trace of the impostor and, when eventually the tunnel comes to a dead end, you curse your ill luck and turn reluctantly to retrace your steps. It is then that you sense a faint but lingering aura of evil close to the tunnel floor.</p>
- <p>Closer inspection reveals a trapdoor set into the flagstones. You pull this heavy hatch open and uncover a circulate chute and a ladder descending into darkness. Your heart misses a beat when you notice fresh tracks on the ladder<ch.apos/>s iron rungs; at last you have found the impostor<ch.apos/>s trail.</p>
- <p>Cautiously you lead the descent into the chute, using your powers of infravision to scan for signs of movement in the damp darkness below. After several minutes you reach the bottom of the ladder where you discover a large vaulted chamber. Around its walls are positioned urns and grey stone caskets, each embellished with traces of gold. There is an unexpected air of opulence about this vault which prompts you to guess that it is a secret burial tomb.</p>
- <choice idref="sect182">If you have ever visited the Graveyard of the Ancients in a previous Lone Wolf adventure, <link-text>turn to 182</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect206">If you have never visited this place, <link-text>turn to 206</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect299">
- <meta><title>299</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your arrow hits its mark and penetrates deep into the creature<ch.apos/>s eye socket. There is a splash of white sparks and a crackle of electrical arcing as the tip punches through the back of its steel skull, and yet the beast comes on. The wound has inflicted serious damage to its sight and senses, but it does not stop it from pressing home its attack. You have barely one second remaining in which to unsheathe a hand weapon as this great metallic horror launches itself at your chest.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mech-wulf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">38</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">35</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect300">
- <meta><title>300</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the uppermost reaches of the tower there descends an icy fog which radiates an intensely powerful aura of evil. This menacing mist darkens as it swirls around the lower levels, like some huge vaporous snake seeking out its prey. Then, slowly, it gathers in towards the centre of the chamber where it hangs above the plinth like an angry thunderhead, roiling and seething with colossal malevolence.</p>
- <p>You gaze into this black cloud and are gripped by an abject terror the instant you fathom its nature and purpose. This cloud is not of this world and it has not fully taken on substance and being within the material plane of Aon, yet even in its malformed state you recognize it to be a materialization of ultimate evil. This is a manifestation of Naar<ch.emdash/>the King of the Darkness!</p>
- <p>Suddenly a deafening clap of thunder shakes the walls and the base of the tower is lit up by crackling arcs of lightning. The freezing air seethes with tension as the presence of Naar triggers explosive chemical imbalances within it. Then, above the crackling cacophony of noise, you hear a chilling voice speaking to you in your native tongue.</p>
- <p><quote>Disciple of Kai<ch.emdash/>you know my name. Will you not deign to speak it?</quote></p>
- <p>Morbid terror is ripping at your insides yet you refuse to show the slightest trace of weakness. You steel yourself and inwardly you pray to Kai and Ishir to protect you in this hour of deepest need.</p>
- <p><quote>No!</quote> you scream, <quote>I will never acknowledge you!</quote></p>
- <p><quote>You may be one of Kai<ch.apos/>s favourite minions,</quote> retorts the voice, <quote>but you will always be mortal. You would do well to remember that in my presence.</quote> Thunder booms and the floor shakes beneath your feet, causing you to fall involuntarily to your knees.</p>
- <p><quote>Now that you bow before me, Lone Wolf, I shall impart to you your fate, for I am the true master of Aon. This is Avaros, a small and insignificant satellite of Duron, a world that has long been devoted to my cause. And you have been lured here for one purpose<ch.emdash/>to be destroyed. During the speck of time that you have existed, you have become an impertinent obstacle to my conquest of Magnamund. For this you will forfeit your soul. Yet, before I claim your worthless soul, I shall make sport of your demise so that Kai and Ishir shall see the worthlessness of their creations and know the futility of their cause.</quote></p>
- <p>Once more the thunder booms and you are blinded momentarily by a flash of white fire. Slowly your sight returns, and now you can see your adversary<ch.emdash/>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.emdash/>standing upon the plinth, directly under the menacing black cloud.</p>
- <p><quote>Here is my champion,</quote> speaks the voice of Naar, <quote>you and he are well-matched for the contest that is about to commence.</quote></p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane unsheathes his sword and levels it your chest. His facial features twist into a grotesque parody of your own as he spits out a venomous threat:</p>
- <p><quote>Victory will be mine, Lone Wolf. Evil shall ultimately triumph!</quote></p>
- <p>You shout a defiant riposte, but the voice of Naar booms once more, drowning your worthy cry:</p>
- <p><quote>So be it! Let the duel begin!</quote></p>
- <choice idref="sect30"><link-text>Turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect301">
- <meta><title>301</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sprint towards the speeding wagon and hurl yourself towards its open cargo bay. But, disastrously, you misjudge your leap and crash headlong into the side of the hover-wagon, knocking yourself unconscious.</p>
- <p>The concussion you have sustained does not kill you, but it contributes indirectly to your death. Your body is seen lying in the avenue by Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane, from one of the tower<ch.apos/>s many watching posts, and he immediately dispatches a troop of Manoyds to capture and slay you. Sadly, they are brutally efficient servants and they obey his commands to the letter.</p>
- <p>Tragically, your life and your duel end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect302">
- <meta><title>302</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Release him, my lord,</quote> says Banedon. The Baron, unnerved by the sudden disappearance of the magical shield and the Guildmaster<ch.apos/>s unexpected request, takes a step backwards and reaches for his sword.</p>
- <p><quote>Have no fear,</quote> says Banedon, staying the Baron<ch.apos/>s hand, <quote>for we have here the real Grand Master of the Kai.</quote></p>
- <p><quote>How can you be so sure?</quote> retorts Caldar, his voice full of scepticism.</p>
- <p><quote>I<ch.apos/>m certain,</quote> says Banedon, <quote>yet there is one way we can be absolutely sure.</quote></p>
- <p>So saying, Banedon removes from the pocket of his robe a small platinum disc which is strung upon a loop of braided cord. He approaches you and slips the cord over your head.</p>
- <p><quote>Here is proof,</quote> he says. <quote>No agent of Naar could tolerate the touch of this goodly artifact. Banish your doubts, my lord. This man is Lone Wolf.</quote></p>
- <p>(Record this Platinum Amulet, which you wear around your neck, as a Special Item on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. You need not discard another item in its favour if you already possess the maximum number permissible.)</p>
- <choice idref="sect88">To continue, <link-text>turn to 88</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect303">
- <meta><title>303</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Within thirty seconds of both panels closing, all of the air is sucked out of this tiny metal cell. Your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus sustains you for a further ten minutes, during which precious little time you try everything possible to extricate yourself from this deadly vacuum. Unfortunately, your valiant efforts are to no avail. You are unable to penetrate the strange metal skin of this cell. Slowly, reluctantly, you succumb to the lack of oxygen until you drift off into a sleep from which you never awaken.</p>
- <p>Sadly, your life and your duel end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect304">
- <meta><title>304</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Slowly you descend the stairs and approach the banqueting table. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane slides the open case towards you and motions for you to take a weapon. You reach for the box and remove the uppermost rapier, then you slide the case back across the table to your opponent.</p>
- <p><quote>Very well,</quote> he says, as he takes the sword and makes a few strokes to gauge its balance, <quote>let the duel begin.</quote></p>
- <p>The Duel: Lone Wolf vs. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane</p>
- <p>The combat ratio for the duel is -4. This ratio takes account of all bonuses which may apply (eg Grand Weaponmastery with Sword, psychic attacks, and Special Items). Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score is identical to your current <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score, unless you possess a Bronze Disc. If you possess this Special Item, you may reduce your enemy<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> by 4 points before the commencement of combat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect151">Conduct the combat using the normal combat procedure. However, should Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> be reduced to 10 or less, do not continue any further with the fight. Instead, <link-text>turn immediately to 151</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect305">
- <meta><title>305</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You retreat all the way down to the bowl of the corolla, to where you began your ascent. Here you take the opportunity to check your Backpack and you discover that three items have been damaged beyond repair (erase three items of your choice from your current list of Backpack Items). Having had your hopes of escape thwarted by the creature, you see that the hollow stem is now the only remaining chance you have of getting out of this plant alive.</p>
- <choice idref="sect103"><link-text>Turn to 103</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect306">
- <meta><title>306</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You approach the hut and crouch down beside its mud wall, close to its open door. Your senses detect no glyphs or other traps here, and there are no residues of magical energy that might betray the presence of illusions or shielding spells. Wary of further delay, you approach the trench at the centre of the hut and descend a flight of steps that leads down to an underground tunnel. You still cannot detect any traps, yet you have gone only a few yards along this narrow passageway when you hear the terrifying roar of a large cat. With an abruptness that takes your breath away, a huge tiger-like beast comes bounding from out of the darkness ahead. So sudden and unexpected is this creature<ch.apos/>s attack, that you only just have time in which to unsheathe a hand-weapon as it hurls itself upon you.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Rahjaz</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">48</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">41</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect249">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 249</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect307">
- <meta><title>307</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your powerful Discipline of Animal Control suppresses the Bangrol<ch.apos/>s natural instinct to defend its nest and immediately it breaks off its attack. It circles around the chamber, cawing with frustration, and then re-enters the chimney and escapes back to the surface.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78"><link-text>Turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect308">
- <meta><title>308</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For two hours you observe the tower. During this time you sense that an invisible field of energy surrounds the wall, a defence that augments the terrifyingly deep moat. This force field disappears only when the portal opens and the drawbridge extends to allow for the arrival or departure of armoured warriors, or strange horseless wagons that hover a few feet from the ground, but in the main the great door remains firmly closed.</p>
- <p>You notice that the sparse traffic of warriors and wagons passes along one avenue. It is the only thoroughfare approaching the tower which has been cleared of debris. It is an uncomfortable vigil, but the time you spend observing the tower is rewarded when a bold plan gradually takes form in your mind.</p>
- <p>You assess that an entry to the tower could be effected by two means: if you were able to ambush a warrior and use his armour as a disguise, or, if you were able to stow away aboard one of the wagons approaching the moat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect276">If you wish to attempt to ambush one of the armoured warriors, <link-text>turn to 276</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you decide to attempt to stow away aboard a hover-wagon, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect309">
- <meta><title>309</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You are within ten feet of the exit tunnel when a heavy sheet of iron falls from the ceiling and seals off your chosen route of escape. The fog is beginning to thin out and you can now see the creatures in the pot who attempted to shoot you full of arrows. They are small, blue-skinned reptilians, with cruel crocodilian faces and curiously human hands. They are armed with finely crafted bows of gleaming white bone that you detect are capable of discharging six poisoned arrows every second. The reptilians are close to reloading these bows<ch.emdash/>you must act quickly if you are to avoid becoming the target of a second deadly volley.</p>
- <choice idref="sect277">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 277</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect219">If you possess Magi-magic, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 219</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect136">If you possess a Bow, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 136</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect82">If you possess neither of these Disciplines, or a Bow, or choose to use none of them, <link-text>turn to 82</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect310">
- <meta><title>310</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The moment you pass through the storm clouds, you enter a stratosphere that is bathed with magnificent light. Above the city<ch.apos/>s perpetual cloud layer lies a wondrous vista, an aerial realm that is calm and clear. The golden rays from two suns and the reflected light from twelve satellite moons, combine to bathe the thunderheads with a panoply of colour. You scan these heavens and see high above the dragonfly which is carrying Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane. It is climbing towards a castle-like fortress that seems to rest upon a base of wispy cloud, defying gravity. Your enemy<ch.apos/>s flying mount enters the castle from below, passing through a gap in the underside of its cloudy base. Upon seeing his destination you urge your own winged mount to follow in his wake.</p>
- <p>You enter the clouds and pass through an open portal, like some massive trapdoor located in the belly of this mystical stronghold. Beyond the portal is a cavern of stone, vaulted and substantial like the dungeons of a great castle. There is no sign of your enemy, save for his mount which is tethered to a wooden pier. You bring your dragonfly in to land upon this pier and then leap down from its back and examine the ground for tracks. You find what you are seeking and they lead you to an archway that opens upon a landing where three tunnels lead off in different directions. However, to your dismay, you discover that Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane has deliberately spoiled his tracks; his footprints lead to all three tunnels.</p>
- <choice idref="sect294">If you wish to explore the north tunnel, <link-text>turn to 294</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect109">If you choose to explore the east tunnel, <link-text>turn to 109</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect235">If you decide instead to explore the west tunnel, <link-text>turn to 235</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect311">
- <meta><title>311</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Desperately you take cover behind a pollen cluster as the insect<ch.apos/>s lance-like proboscis comes hurtling towards your body.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Solyx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">45</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">40</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all forms of psychic attack, except Kai-surge and Kai-blast.</p>
- <choice idref="sect144">You may evade this combat after four rounds by <link-text>turning to 144</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect186">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 186</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect312">
- <meta><title>312</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive to the ground, but the white beam is lightning fast and it glances your shoulder as you fall: lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You bite your lip to stifle a scream of pain as you hit the warehouse floor, then you scramble for the nearest cover<ch.emdash/>a heavy iron chest, banded and riveted with steel<ch.emdash/>to avoid leaving yourself exposed to another blast from this deadly weapon. The warrior follows your swift move and discharges a second beam from his spear which slams into the iron chest with stunning force. You gasp with horror as you see the side of the chest bulging towards your face. Its thick rivets tremble and its age-blackened skin smoulders with a sullen heat. Instinct takes over, making you roll away from the iron chest and seek cover elsewhere. As you move, the beam of light tears through the rear of the iron box and destroys the ground where, only moments before, your face had been.</p>
- <p>You call upon all of your camouflage skills to mask your body as you hurriedly seek a way to escape from this warrior and his sorcerous weapon. You reach the base of a large steel tank and scramble up a ladder fixed to its side. The top of the tank is stacked high with coiled ropes and you force yourself in amongst them. A few moments later you watch the warrior approach the smouldering remains of the iron chest. He is close enough now for you to see that his weapon is attached by a length of steel cable to a canister strapped to his back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect209">If you possess a Bow and the Discipline of Magi-magic, and have attained the Kai rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 209</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect156">If you do not possess a Bow or this skill, or if you have yet to attain the rank of Sun Lord, <link-text>turn to 156</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect313">
- <meta><title>313</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you move across the vault, you hear your would-be ambushers moving around in the cauldron above. You are near the centre of this dingy chamber, level with the hanging pot, when a glassy sphere filled with white liquid is dropped over the side. As it hits the slimy floor it explodes, spraying droplets of the white fluid in every direction. You are hit by this fine spray which instantly reveals your position to the creatures above.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Huntmastery and Assimilance, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect197">If your total score is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 197</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect253">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 253</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect314">
- <meta><title>314</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You summon all of your Kai skills to mask your body before setting foot into the hall. You keep close to the left wall and, as you inch your way closer to the stairs, you pray that your camouflage skills will keep you hidden from the eyes of the creatures who are gathered around the trough.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 3 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect193">If your total score is 4 or lower, <link-text>turn to 193</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect24">If it is 5 or higher, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect315">
- <meta><title>315</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You gather your psychic defences and construct a wall around your mind to protect yourself from this agonizing mental assault. Your strategy is swiftly effective and costs you but a fraction of your remaining reserve of psychic energy (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p>This psychic assault has been one of the strongest you have ever experienced. You have survived it, but your Kai senses tell you that your ordeal has not ended; it has only just begun. You force open your eyes and look with dread at the terrible threat that confronts you now.</p>
- <choice idref="sect300"><link-text>Turn to 300</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond the net you rediscover your opponent<ch.apos/>s tracks. They lead you to an unlit storage chamber containing dozens of iron canisters and large steel crates. Using your ability to see in the dark, you follow his footprints as they wend their way around these obstacles and trail off towards a distant door. But before you reach the door you are brought to an abrupt halt by a strange sound<ch.emdash/>a whirring, mechanical growl. Instinctively you look over your shoulder, in the direction of the noise, and freeze with shock the moment you catch sight of the creature that is moving slowly towards your back.</p>
- <choice idref="sect199"><link-text>Turn to 199</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect317">
- <meta><title>317</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You scan the jungle perimeter several times but you can detect nothing potentially hostile lurking amongst the undergrowth and trees. You decide to follow the tracks to see where they lead and, as you emerge from the tunnel, the oppressive jungle heat hits you like a sledgehammer. Your Magnakai Discipline of Nexus automatically regulates your body temperature, making the heat bearable, yet even so it comes as a shock that any living creature can exist in this hellish environment.</p>
- <p>Unfortunately, the shock of the jungle heat is only the first of two nasty surprises that await you. The second is a barbed arrow that whistles from out of the dense foliage and comes speeding towards your forehead!</p>
- <choice idref="sect152">If you possess Kai-alchemy, and have attained the rank of Sun Knight or higher, <link-text>turn to 152</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect270">If you possess Kai-alchemy but have yet to reach this level of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 270</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect232">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 232</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect318">
- <meta><title>318</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Kai sixth sense reveals to you traces of a magical energy which is lingering around the entrance to the tomb. Your fellow Kai also detect that something is wrong, although their senses are not as finely tuned as your own and they are unable to pinpoint its source.</p>
- <p><quote>Is it safe to enter, Grand Master?</quote> whispers Steel Hand.</p>
- <p><quote>I cannot be certain,</quote> you reply, uneasily. <quote>But of one thing I am sure<ch.emdash/>the impostor has already descended into the catacombs by way of this entrance.</quote></p>
- <p>You take a few steps back from the open tomb and point to a patch of soft earth amongst the rubble.</p>
- <p><quote>Look here<ch.emdash/>it<ch.apos/>s a footprint.</quote> You examine it closely and a tingle of apprehension runs down your spine when you realize that the impression is identical to that made by your own boot.</p>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect167">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 167</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect319">
- <meta><title>319</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You recite the familiar words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell> and point your index finger at the head of your mortal enemy. You feel a surge of power and a crackle of blue flame explodes at the tip of your finger, but the sudden noise alerts Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane to your presence.</p>
- <p>A split second before your bolt of energy reaches its target, Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane throws himself to the floor. The bolt burns the back of his thigh, wounding him badly, but not so badly as to prevent him from scrambling to his feet and effecting a hasty escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect207"><link-text>Turn to 207</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect320">
- <meta><title>320</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The two reptilians have exhausted their supply of arrows and are frantically working at the chain in an effort to lower their iron pot to the floor of the vault. You can see that it will only be a matter of minutes before they accomplish their task.</p>
- <p>Anxious to evade them, you examine the portal for a lever or some other means to make it rise. To the left of the tunnel arch you discover two squares of opaque crimson gemstone separated by a small slot. The squares are similar in size and design to those you encountered at the entrance to the temple of Avaros. These, too, comprise a locking mechanism that controls this portal. By tapping upon each square a correct number of times you will cause the lock to disengage and the portal to rise.</p>
- <p>You place your fingers lightly upon the squares and feel the tell-tale vibrations that are the key to deciphering the secret code. After only seconds you are able to determine that the first code is equal to the number of islands south of the Kirlundin island of Hemd.</p>
- <p>The second code is equal to the number of villages that lie on the highway between the cities of Toran and Anskaven.</p>
- <p>In order to discover the exact numbers that will open the portal, consult the map.</p>
- <p>When you think you know the two-digit solution, turn to the entry that is the same number as your answer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect213">If you cannot decipher the codes, <link-text>turn instead to 213</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect321">
- <meta><title>321</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Aided by your Kai skills, you manage to avoid the falling debris until you reach the base of the skull-rock. Here you are struck by a deluge of earth that knocks you down and pins your legs to the floor: lose 8 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Your body may be injured but your spirit refuses to give up. Frantically you dig yourself free with your bare hands and crawl the last few remaining yards to the skull<ch.apos/>s mist-filled jaw. Gritting your teeth against the pain of your injuries, you stagger to your feet and enter the opening barely moments before the entire temple ceiling caves in.</p>
- <p>In addition to the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points loss, you also lose 1 Special Item and 1 Backpack Item of your choice.</p>
- <choice idref="sect174">To continue, <link-text>turn to 174</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect322">
- <meta><title>322</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You let your arrow fly but it fails to find its mark. It shatters uselessly against the creature<ch.apos/>s steel skull, leaving no time for a second shot. You only just have time to unsheathe a hand weapon to defend yourself as the great metallic beast comes leaping through the darkness.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Mech-wulf</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">50</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is immune to all psychic attacks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win this combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect323">
- <meta><title>323</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Follow me, my lords!</quote> shouts Foilan, as he spurs his black mare along a narrow, cobblestoned street that wends its way through Tyso<ch.apos/>s shabby northern quarter. At a junction close by the city<ch.apos/>s main stables, he turns into an avenue that leads to the West Arch of the Old Necropolis.</p>
- <p>When the Arch is less than a hundred yards distant, Foilan brings his horse to a halt and you reign in your steed beside him. Several dozen guards and rangers have gathered at the Arch and they have erected a barricade which completely blocks the entrance to the burial ground beyond. The Reeve-lieutenant tells you to wait here with your men while he goes forward to inform the guards of the situation and to tell them that you and your companions are not Kai impostors.</p>
- <p>Patiently you wait for Foilan to complete his task. Then, on seeing his signal, you move forward and join him at the Western Arch. He shouts an order and hurriedly the guards pull aside a wagon which blocks the entrance, enabling the five of you to dismount and proceed into the necropolis on foot.</p>
- <p>Aided by the moonlight, you lead your party along a gravelled path towards the centre of the burial ground, to where a tunnel-like opening has been excavated in the side of a mossy mound. On arriving at this shadowy entrance you stop to examine the surrounding area, to check for any clues that may help you track your quarry. You find no fresh prints and you sense no lingering aura of an evil that could betray his presence. Confident that it is safe to proceed, you enter the mound and lead your comrades down a wide stone ramp to an oval-shaped chamber. A dozen stone coffins, each carved with the likeness of its occupant, are laid out in a circle like the spokes of a wheel. The chamber is cold and unwelcoming, but it does not harbour any trace of evil. You are sure that the impostor has not set foot here.</p>
- <p>On the far side of the burial chamber, opposite the ramp, there is a stairwell which descends deep into the catacombs below the necropolis. You go down these stairs until you come to a landing where a passage crosses from north to south. Black Hawk suggests that the party split in two and explore both ways, but you are not in favour of this idea. Splitting the party would make it easier for the impostor if he chose to launch an ambush. You peer along both passages and draw on your Grand Mastery skills to determine the best route to follow, but with little success. Neither passage looks especially inviting.</p>
- <choice idref="sect275">If you decide to enter and explore the north passage, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect107">If you choose to investigate the south passage, <link-text>turn to 107</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect324">
- <meta><title>324</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You enter the building at ground level and follow your adversary<ch.apos/>s tracks to a mouldering hall at the rear of this derelict dwelling. From the cover of a shadowy alcove you watch as Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane meets and converses with two warriors. They are both helmeted and clad in suits of close-fitting grey armour. They have shiny steel spears slung over their shoulders which radiate a faint hum of electrical power. Their meeting is brief. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane issues terse commands and the two warriors leave to enact his orders. As you watch them go, you hazard a guess that their mission is to find and kill you.</p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane leaves the hall by a broken rear door. You wait for a few minutes, to reduce the risk that he may detect how near you are, and then you follow his trail. The rear of the building opens onto a wasteland of shattered rubble which is bisected by a dead stream of salty, acidic water. You follow your opponent<ch.apos/>s trail across this bleak and forbidding landscape, past sharp spires of crimson and jet that erupt through the dereliction to scratch the cloudy sky. Rust-red water encircles their bases, lending them a wholly sinister aspect. To your eyes it seems as if this blighted city has been impaled upon these cruel, towering spikes.</p>
- <p>Beyond the spires you see Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane descending a flight of stone steps that disappear into the ground. Suddenly he stops and looks in your direction; it is as if he has sensed you are on his trail. Instinctively you dive to take cover behind a broken wall, but as you hit the ground it collapses, dumping you unceremoniously into a cellar that is flooded with black, briney water.</p>
- <p>Coughing and spluttering, you bob to the surface and reach out to grab at a stone step. It is the lowest of a flight of slime-smeared steps that rise out of the water and ascend to a trapdoor in the ceiling. Suddenly you see two fiery red eyes emerging from the darkness and your stomach churns. They belong to the hungry, rubbery-skinned creature that dwells in this dismal cellar. It reaches out to grab you with its taloned hands, but you avoid its attack by wrenching at its wrist, sending it somersaulting over your head to splash into the water. Quickly you attempt to pull yourself onto the slippery steps before this creature recovers and tries to attack again.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Grand Pathsmanship and Grand Huntmastery, add 2 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect145">If your total score is now 4 or less, <link-text>turn to 145</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If it is 5 or more, <link-text>turn to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect325">
- <meta><title>325</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the last of these ghoulish creatures falls to your lightning-swift blows, you leap over its body and race up the stairs to the balcony above. You spare one last glance at the hall below and then, when you are sure that you have left behind no survivors who could raise an alarm, you hurry into the arch beyond.</p>
- <choice idref="sect50"><link-text>Turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect326">
- <meta><title>326</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon discover that the creature<ch.apos/>s iron collar and chain prevent it from reaching you so long as you keep close to the cavern wall. Mindful of this, you skirt around the writhing serpent and inch your way carefully towards the tunnel. However, you have progressed only a few yards when you feel the floor sloping away. The water is getting deeper.</p>
- <choice idref="sect234">If you possess Magi-magic, <link-text>turn to 234</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect327">
- <meta><title>327</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your target is beyond the effective range of your power word, yet there is still sufficient energy in your attack to knock him down. However, use of this Discipline at such long range puts an unnecessary strain on your vocal chords: lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point.</p>
- <p>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane struggles to his feet and he curses you, his teeth showing white against the green of the jungle as he spits out a mouthful of damp soil. Then he turns and disappears into the undergrowth. Determined that you are not going to let him get away so easily, you dash out of the tunnel and give chase.</p>
- <choice idref="sect90"><link-text>Turn to 90</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect328">
- <meta><title>328</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your killing blow splits the vile creature in two, severing the venom sac located below its tongue. The small amount of fluid remaining in the sac splashes on your weapon and immediately it gives off wisps of acrid, green-grey smoke.</p>
- <p>Unless the weapon you are using is a Special Item, the acid quickly corrodes it and renders it useless (delete this weapon from your Weapons List).</p>
- <choice idref="sect271">If, before leaving this hall, you wish to search the shelves for useful items, <link-text>turn to 271</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you choose not to search the shelves, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect329">
- <meta><title>329</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing on your newly acquired magic, you focus on the distant vent and carefully recite the words of the Brotherhood spell <spell>Teleport</spell>. For a few seconds your vision swims in and out of focus as your strength is sapped of the power that this spell requires (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). Then your sight becomes crystal clear and you feel yourself floating upwards through the air towards the apex of this gigantic cavern.</p>
- <p>You have risen close to a mile above the canyon when suddenly you attract the unwanted attention of a gigantic dragonfly. Anxious to evade a probable attack, you concentrate harder upon your destination and will yourself to accelerate.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you possess Assimilance, add 1 to the number you have picked.</p>
- <choice idref="sect340">If your total is now 3 or less, <link-text>turn to 340</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect84">If it is 4 or higher, <link-text>turn to 84</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect330">
- <meta><title>330</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leave the chamber, the portal slides shut and your Iron Disc emerges from the slot. You take the disc and slip it back into your pocket as you retrace your steps to the junction. On arriving there, you continue ahead and begin your exploration of this new passageway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect137"><link-text>Turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect331">
- <meta><title>331</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you lies a smoke-filled hall that reeks of death and decay. Only the floor appears to be solid, and yet when you stare down at its glassy surface, you see that it is honeycombed with thousands of cells, each one occupied by a tortured soul writhing in perpetual torment. The walls of this evil chamber are wreathed with sulphurous smoke, lit intermittently by shafts of crimson lightning. The foul substances which pass for air seethe with the tension of ferocious, evil energies.</p>
- <p>From the centre of the floor there arises a slender domed plinth. Moments later, a wide dais rises beside it, upon which you see a visage of the Dark God, one that he favours whilst occupying his unholy throne hall. Nothing could have prepared you for the sight that now meets your gaze<ch.emdash/>it is the foulest you have ever seen.</p>
- <p>Naar<ch.apos/>s favoured form is a great globular body, like that of a bloated spider, borne by a score of stunted limbs which emerge chaotically from the underside of a sac-like abdomen. His face hangs like a parody of a wrinkled old sow<ch.apos/>s yet with an evil-smelling black hole where one could expect a snout. The upper surface of his body is covered with pouches of vile fluids that trail wisps of black smoke, and his maw is studded with hundreds of blue-stained fangs. But it is the eyes that shock you most. The Dark God has the eyes of a man.</p>
- <p>Naar shifts his bloated body from the dais and slither-shuffles towards the plinth. A misshapen limb extends to the plinth and its domed cover retracts to reveal a wondrous and mysterious artifact. A second shock stuns your senses when you recognize the nature of this artifact. It is one of the most legendary items in all the long history of Magnamund. It is the fabled Moonstone of the Shianti!</p>
- <choice idref="sect112"><link-text>Turn to 112</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect332">
- <meta><title>332</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The toughness of the plant wall and the confines of the stem make it difficult for you to wield your weapon effectively. It takes you nearly half an hour to hack your way out of this plant, during which time you lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points due to fatigue.</p>
- <choice idref="sect230">To continue, <link-text>turn to 230</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect333">
- <meta><title>333</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pull yourself a from under the creature<ch.apos/>s body, your hand brushes against a collar of steel that is fixed tightly around its muscular neck. Attached to this collar is a thin disc of iron engraved with runic symbols. (If you wish to keep this Iron Disc, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item.)</p>
- <p>You are now anxious to leave this place in case the creature<ch.apos/>s death cry has alerted others of its kind. By way of an iron staircase, you leave this cellar and emerge through a trapdoor into a street adjacent to the hall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71"><link-text>Turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect334">
- <meta><title>334</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have come to the edge of a deep canyon. The verdant walls of this massive gorge are carpeted with a rainbow of colour and the air is alive with the busy noise of huge, buzzing insects. Everything is fecund and fertile and dripping with humid jungle heat. High above the gorge you glimpse for the first time the source of the light which illuminates this strangely wonderful realm. The canyon is set within a cavern, the walls of which seem to engulf the sky. At its apex there is an oval-shaped vent through which a concentrated shower of amber rays pours down, like sunbeams through a stained glass portal. You watch in awe as flights of dragonflies, each as large as a Vassagonian Itikar, circle languidly above the canyon on gossamer wings. They shimmer like streaks of liquid silver as they ride the thermal currents. The sight is one of great beauty, yet one you cannot fully enjoy. The instinct which led you to the rim of this gorge now tells you that the source of the power you seek lies several miles away and above, beyond the vent that is the source of this cavern<ch.apos/>s light. Carefully you consider your predicament and determine that in order to escape, you must reach the vent<ch.emdash/>an exit that lies more than a thousand feet above the rim of the gorge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect329">If you possess Kai-alchemy (and wish to use it) and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 329</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect146">If you possess Kai-alchemy (and wish to use it), but have yet to attain the rank of Kai Grand Crown, <link-text>turn to 146</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect116">If you do not possess this Discipline, or if you choose not to use it, <link-text>turn to 116</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect335">
- <meta><title>335</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You emerge through the steel roof of the tower and catch a fleeting glimpse of the rainswept city far below. Suddenly there is a tremendous flash, closely followed by the concussive blast of a terrific explosion. This shockwave hits you from behind, leaving you feeling as if you have just been kicked in the back by an angry mule.</p>
- <p>Fortunately your winged mount is able to ride this shockwave which helps propel it upwards at great speed into the base of the thick black storm clouds.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect336">
- <meta><title>336</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The passage leads to a landing where a circular staircase gives access to levels above. As you climb the stairs, you are filled with a growing sense of uncertainty and dread as you ponder what may await you in this alien tower. Yet these feelings of impending doom are quickly banished when you reach the third level, for here you pick up the trail of your adversary. Your tracking skills determine that his trail is fresh and you pursue it eagerly.</p>
- <p>You pass through a maze of empty passageways which leads eventually to a large, circular hall. Cautiously you approach the entrance and peer inside. Your tracking skills and your curiosity are handsomely rewarded when you see Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane; he is standing alone and he is unaware that you have found him.</p>
- <choice idref="sect100"><link-text>Turn to 100</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect337">
- <meta><title>337</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>This way, my lords!</quote> shouts Foilan, as he spurs his black mare along a mist-wreathed street that snakes through Tyso<ch.apos/>s shabby northern quarter. The street is deserted yet many citizens witness your passing. Their eyes glint in the moonlight as they peep through the smoky yellow panes of their windows, their curiosity and fears awakened by the clatter of your horses<ch.apos/> hooves.</p>
- <p>At length the street opens onto a wider avenue which gently descends towards a sprawling expanse of derelict ground surrounded by a tall, moss-covered perimeter wall. Several dozen guards and rangers have gathered at a distant archway in this wall and, by magnifying your vision, you can see that they have erected a barricade which completely blocks the entrance to the burial ground beyond.</p>
- <p>The Reeve-lieutenant tells you to wait here with your men. Then he goes forward to inform the guards of the situation and to tell them that you and your companions are not Kai impostors. On seeing his signal, you move forward and join him at the archway. At his command, the guards hurriedly clear away some of the rubble which fills the entrance, enabling the five of you to dismount and proceed into the necropolis on foot.</p>
- <p>In the moonlight, the burial ground has a certain ghostly beauty. There is an aura of sad serenity surrounding its mouldering tombs as, with the passing of centuries, they crumble to dust and disappear with their secret memories of another age. But all is not what it seems. Your sixth sense detects the lingering aura of an evil entity that has invaded this place. A glance at your fellow Kai tells you that they, too, can sense its presence.</p>
- <p>You clasp the Platinum Amulet and feel a tingling vibration run through the palm of your hand. The sensation grows stronger as you move along a weed-choked path which leads to a shadowy tomb. With the passage of the years this tomb has settled lop-sidedly into the soft Tysoan earth, yet a flight of damp stone steps descends to where its door once was. As you draw nearer, you notice that all that now remains of the door is a mound of broken rubble.</p>
- <choice idref="sect256">If you possess Telegnosis, <link-text>turn to 256</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect318">If you do not, <link-text>turn to 318</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect338">
- <meta><title>338</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>When you strike your final blow, the limbs of the Meghanic come adrift from its torso and it disintegrates into a heap of buckled metal. You sift through this scrap and discover nothing of value, save for the warrior<ch.apos/>s sword.</p>
- <p>You leap over the battered remains and continue along this winding tunnel until you reach an empty chamber. Here you can feel a warm breeze and you sense that it comes from a stairwell in the far wall. When you investigate, you rediscover Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane<ch.apos/>s footprints clearly imbedded in dust on the stone steps. You cast your hands over them and detect that this is not a false trail; your enemy passed this way sometime within the last hour.</p>
- <p>Slowly you ascend the stairs and arrive at the arched entrance to a large, vaulted stone chamber. Gathered around a fountain set into its north wall are a group of six grey-skinned humanoids. They are busy drinking a clear, oily fluid that pours from the fountain<ch.apos/>s spout into a semi-circular trough. All are barefoot and clad in rags, and they are each armed with a spear and a bow. The only exit from this chamber appears to be an archway set high in the north wall. There is a balcony in front of it that can only be reached by two flights of stairs which rise up on either side of the fountain.</p>
- <p>Quietly you observe the creatures slaking their thirsts, and you try to formulate a way in which you can get past them and reach the balconied exit in the north wall.</p>
- <choice idref="sect138">If you possess a Bow, and the Discipline of Magi-magic, and have attained the rank of Kai Grand Guardian, <link-text>turn to 138</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you possess Kai-alchemy and have attained the rank of Grand Crown (and wish to use it), <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect121">If you do not possess these skills, or a Bow, or if you have yet to attain the required levels of Kai mastery, <link-text>turn to 121</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect339">
- <meta><title>339</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From the cover of a leafy bush you observe the primitive settlement for several minutes. (During this vigil, unless you possess the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.) But as time ticks by you become increasingly restless. The hut into which your enemy ran is a small, single-roomed hovel, yet you can detect no movement within it. Prompted by a gnawing fear that you may have allowed Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane to escape, you move closer to the settlement under cover of the thick jungle foliage.</p>
- <choice idref="sect285"><link-text>Turn to 285</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect340">
- <meta><title>340</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You increase the rate of your ascent, but your sudden acceleration serves only to make you a more attractive target in the eyes of the predatory dragonfly. With a loud and angry buzzing noise, the creature comes soaring down upon your back like a hawk upon a bolting hare.</p>
- <combat><enemy>Golasyx</enemy><enemy-attribute class="combatskill">49</enemy-attribute><enemy-attribute class="endurance">45</enemy-attribute></combat>
- <p>This creature is attempting to stab you with the tip of its spear-like proboscis as it swoops past, therefore you need only fight this combat for one round.</p>
- <choice idref="sect163">If you inflict an equal or greater <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss upon the enemy in this single round of combat, <link-text>turn to 163</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect221">If you sustain a greater <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> loss than your enemy, <link-text>turn to 221</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect341">
- <meta><title>341</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You draw your divine blade and a radiant halo of golden flame caresses its razor-sharp edge. You raise the sword above your head and then strike out at the leading point of the approaching fire-bolt. There is a tremendous splash of fiery sparks as you connect with the bolt and send it arcing away to explode harmlessly against the wall of the shaft.</p>
- <p>The Sommerswerd absorbs some of the energy of the fire-bolt which it transfers to you through its hilt: restore 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">To continue, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect342">
- <meta><title>342</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you pass close to the creature<ch.apos/>s barbed torso, you sense that inwardly it is struggling desperately to overcome the effects of the spell you have placed upon it. Its body begins to twitch as its great crushing coils go into spasm. Sensing that it is about to break free, you cast the spell again to reinforce its effect.</p>
- <p>Your second casting of the spell keeps the serpent from breaking loose and swiping you with its deadly tail, but the double use of Old Kingdom magic takes its toll on your physical stamina (lose 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). With the serpent subdued, you are able to reach the safety of the exit and make your escape unscathed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect343">
- <meta><title>343</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Alyss draws upon her powers to create a cocoon of energy to protect both her vulnerable body and the legendary Moonstone. Kekataag assaults this glowing shield with maniacal ferocity, his great two-handed axe drawing fiery sparks with every mighty blow. You can sense from the hatred which blazes in his supernatural eyes that he and Alyss are old enemies.</p>
- <p>Naar is now aware of your true identity. He also senses that you have made no effort to reach the Shadow Gate and so he moves away from Alyss, seemingly happy to allow his minion to press on with the attack while he devotes his undivided attention to you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect132">If you possess the Sommerswerd, <link-text>turn to 132</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect147">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 147</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect344">
- <meta><title>344</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race along the passageway and turn the corner to see a tunnel sloping away into the gloom. The walls and ceiling are dripping wet, indicating to you that this dingy passageway passes directly under the stream. You hurry along its narrow confines, your shoulders grazing its muddy walls as you run, until you arrive at a flight of steps that ascend to an archway supported by thick wooden beams. Beyond the arch lies a large subterranean chamber that is daubed and decorated with runes and evil insignia. It is a primitive temple and it radiates an aura of evil so malicious that it makes your skin crawl.</p>
- <p>On the far side of this unholy place, you see a stone altar standing before a huge boulder that has been crudely chiselled to resemble a grinning human skull. An eerie green glow pulsates from the eye sockets of this great skull-rock, and a mist swirls from its open jaw. Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane is at the centre of the chamber but he is moving quickly towards the altar. You command him to stop and face you, but he ignores your order and continues running until he reaches the jaw of the great stone skull, which is flanked by two staves of iron set into holes in the ground. Gasping for breath, he now turns to face you. For a moment his evil eyes dart towards one of the iron staves and he reaches out a hand as if to grasp it. But, seemingly, he changes his mind. He sees you entering the temple and he turns and runs into the open jaw of the skull to be swallowed up by the roiling mist.</p>
- <p>Quickly you pursue him, confident that you can maintain the upper hand so long as you do not lose his trail.</p>
- <choice idref="sect140"><link-text>Turn to 140</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect345">
- <meta><title>345</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Beyond where the illusory north wall once stood, you can now see a small antechamber which is wreathed in acrid blue smoke. Gradually this smoke dissipates to reveal a shallow plinth upon which lies a bronze urn. This heavy object rests on its side and a quantity of pale grey ash has spilled from its hinged lid. Cautiously you approach the urn and see that there is an inscription engraved on its side. From this ancient script you learn that the ashes are the last remains of Baroness Garrulen, the wife of Hul<ch.emdash/>third Baron of Tyso. Glinting half-buried in the ash, you notice a ring encrusted with crimson gemstones (if you wish to keep this Ruby Ring, record it on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as a Special Item).</p>
- <p>You are righting the urn on its plinth when you hear Steel Hand calling you. He has found something among the rubble which litters the floor at the rear of the antechamber.</p>
- <choice idref="sect35"><link-text>Turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
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- <p>Your efforts are rewarded when the dragonfly responds to your healing powers. Consciousness and strength return to its battered body and the creature is able to pull out of its dive before it is too late. It swoops deep into the cavernous moat of the tower to gather speed for its slow ascent into the clouds. As you climb past the top of the tower you see that the dragonfly pens have been completely destroyed by the explosion. Fire rages through the uppermost levels of the tower, and it is spreading quickly to the other levels below.</p>
- <choice idref="sect310"><link-text>Turn to 310</link-text>.</choice>
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- <p>You stop to use your Magnakai Discipline of divination, to determine which passage you should follow. Unfortunately, you are still unable to detect your adversary<ch.apos/>s trail and you cannot determine any difference between the two passages.</p>
- <choice idref="sect95">If you decide to explore the left corridor, <link-text>turn to 95</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect137">If you choose instead to explore the right corridor, <link-text>turn to 137</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
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- <p>Your final blow cleaves the head from the chained serpent and sends it spinning into the air. It collides with the ceiling and rebounds to splash loudly into the mire. For a moment it bobs on the surface, its lifeless eyes glazed and opaque, then it sinks slowly beneath the foam. Breathless from the fight, you sheathe your weapon and wade across the slimy ichor-stained waters towards the mouth of the tunnel where you make a hasty escape from this hostile cavern.</p>
- <choice idref="sect115"><link-text>Turn to 115</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
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- <p>The warrior skids to a halt and stares down in disbelief at the legs of his slain comrade that protrude from beneath the fallen cylinders. You seize the chance to attack and you move up behind him and leap onto his undefended back. He fights tenaciously to free himself, but his struggle ends abruptly when you rip a steel cable from the canister that is strapped to his back. There is a dull boom, and an eruption of blue-white flame shoots from the top of the canister, burning open the back of his helm. The force of this blast hurls him forwards and leaves him sprawled across the cylinders that cover his slain comrade. For a few seconds a spidery net of pulsating light enshrouds the two lifeless warriors, then it crackles and disappears, leaving behind an acrid stench of scorched metal and roasted meat.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21"><link-text>Turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
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- <section class="numbered" id="sect350">
- <meta><title>350</title></meta>
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- <p>As the last of the creatures dies, you leap over its heaped body and stumble through the Shadow Gate into a whirling oblivion. The last image that burns itself into your memory is that of Alyss slowly succumbing to the relentless blows from Kekataag<ch.apos/>s axe. The memory of her fearless bravery strengthens your spirit and resolve to forever serve the forces of Good against the accursed hordes of darkness.</p>
- <p>Congratulations Grand Master<ch.emdash/>you have won a great victory over the forces of Evil. You have defeated Naar<ch.apos/>s sinister plan to destroy you and conquer all of Magnamund. But, as you return through the Shadow Gate to the land of your birth, you know that the fight against Evil is not yet over. If you are to prevent the Dark God from launching his armies of night into Magnamund, you must return to the Plane of Darkness and retrieve the fabled Moonstone. Only by doing so will Magnamund be safe from the ravages of Naar<ch.apos/>s unholy hordes.</p>
- <p>It will be a supremely perilous mission, perhaps the most dangerous you have ever undertaken. If you possess the true courage of a Kai Grand Master, the ultimate quest awaits you in the climax to the Grand Master series, entitled:</p>
- <p>THE CURSE OF NAAR</p>
-
- </data>
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- <!-- Backmatter -->
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- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
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- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
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- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
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- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
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- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
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- <illustrations>
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- <illgroup idref="action" class="visible">
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- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <illustration id="acdscplz" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="234" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
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- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <creator>JC Alvarez/Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <illustration id="ac1" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration id="ac2" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
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- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration id="ac3" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
- </illgroup>
-
- <illgroup idref="crtable" class="hidden">
- <illustration id="crtneg" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
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- <illustration id="crtpos" class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
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- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
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- <data/>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
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- </data>
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+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Brian Williams</strong> was first noticed by Joe Dever for his work in White Dwarf magazine (circa issue 50) and the Real Life Adventure series by Jon Sutherland. Brian Williams was Joe's first choice of illustrators to replace Gary Chalk. Jon, being an old friend of Joe's, introduced the two. Brian was excited to work with Joe on the Lone Wolf series. He illustrated <cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite> and almost every book about Magnamund since that time.</p>
+++ /dev/null
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-Initial revision based on 16tlov.xml and tmc.xml - needs lots of love
-
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-////// To Do //////
-
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-
- <meta>
- <title>The Legacy of Vashna</title>
- <creator class="short">Joe Dever and Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Joe Dever<br />Illustrated by Brian Williams</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- &inclusion.joe.dever.bio.lw;
- &inclusion.brian.williams.bio.lw;
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2005</year><month>3</month><day>12</day></date>
- <description class="blurb">
- <p>You are Lone Wolf&emdash;Kai Grand Master of Sommerlund. The spirit of Vashna, greatest of all the Darklords, is imprisoned deep within the fathomless reaches of the Maakengorge. For centuries, servants of darkness have tried to summon him to do their bidding but always they have failed&ellips; until now!</p>
- <p>In <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>, you must locate and defeat the Darklord's minions before they can complete the resurrection of their master&emdash;the most powerful Lord of Evil your world has ever known. Will you succeed in your quest? Or will you and your fragile world perish in the wrath of Vashna?</p>
- </description>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.projectaon.org/">Project Aon</a>. This edition is intended to reflect the complete text of the original version. Where we have made minor corrections, they will be noted in the <a idref="errata">Errata</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Text copyright © 1991 Joe Dever.<br />Illustrations copyright © 1991 Brian Williams.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
- </meta>
-
- <section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To Margaret Foden</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="dedicate" />
- <link class="next" idref="tssf" />
- </meta>
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- <data>
-
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="credits">
- <meta><title>Credits</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jason Smith</dd>
- <dt>Illustration Transcription</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Action Charts</dt>
- <dd>JC Alvarez<br />Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Proofreading</dt>
- <dd>Michael Davies (Sections 71&endash;140)<br/>Jeff Dougan (Frontmatter)<br/>Markus Eisensehr (Sections 141&endash;210)<br/>Brett Taylor (Sections 1&endash;70, 211&endash;350)</dd>
- <dt>Editing</dt>
- <dd>David Davis<br/>Ingo Klöcker<br/>Chris Lundgren<br/>Neil McGrory<br/>Timothy Pederick<br/>Simon Osborne<br/>Keith Sheldon<br/>Jennifer Sigman</dd>
- <dt>Coordination</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- <dt>Special Thanks</dt>
- <dd>Laurence Leach<br/>Jeremy Welker</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="tssf">
- <meta>
- <title>The Story So Far&ellips;</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="gamerulz" />
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- <data>
- <p>You are Grand Master Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Lords of Sommerlund and sole survivor of a massacre that wiped out the First Order of your élite warrior caste.</p>
- <p>It is the year MS 5077 and twenty-seven years have passed since your brave kinsmen perished at the hands of the Darklords of Helgedad. These champions of evil, who were sent forth by Naar, the King of the Darkness, to destroy the fertile world of Magnamund, have themselves since been destroyed. You vowed to avenge the murder of the Kai and you kept your pledge, for it was you who brought about their downfall when alone you infiltrated their foul domain&emdash;the Darklands&emdash;and caused the destruction of their leader, Archlord Gnaag, and the seat of his power that was the infernal city of Helgedad.</p>
- <p>In the wake of their destruction, chaos befell the Darkland armies who, until then, had been poised to conquer all of Magnamund. Some factions which comprised this huge army, most notably the barbaric Drakkarim, began to fight with the others for control. This disorder quickly escalated into an all-out civil war, which allowed the Freeland armies of Magnamund time in which to recover and launch a counter-offensive. Skilfully their commanders exploited the chaos and secured a swift and total victory over an enemy far superior in numbers.</p>
- <p>For seven years now peace has reigned in Sommerlund. Under your direction, the once-ruined monastery of the Kai has been thoroughly rebuilt and restored to its former glory, and the task of teaching a Second Order of Kai warriors the skills and proud traditions of your ancestors is also well under way. The new generation of Kai recruits, all of whom were born during the era of war against the Darklords, possess latent Kai skills and show exceptional promise. These skills will be nurtured and honed to perfection during their time at the Monastery so that they may teach and inspire future generations, thereby ensuring the continued security of your homeland in future years.</p>
- <p>Your attainment of the rank of Kai Grand Master brought with it great rewards. Some, such as the restoration of the Kai and the undying gratitude of your fellow Sommlending, could have been anticipated. Yet there have also been rewards which you could not possibly have foreseen. The discovery that within you lay the potential to develop Kai Disciplines beyond those of the Magnakai, which, until now, were thought to be the ultimate that a Kai Master could aspire to, was truly a revelation. Your discovery has inspired you to set out upon a new and previously unknown path in search of the wisdom and power that no Kai Lord before you has ever possessed. In the name of your creator, the God Kai, and for the greater glory of Sommerlund and the Goddess Ishir, you have vowed to reach the very pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to attain all of the Grand Master Disciplines and become the first Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <p>With diligence and determination you set about the restoration of the Kai Monastery and organized the training of the Second Order recruits. Your efforts were soon rewarded and, within the space of two short years, the first raw recruits had graduated to become a cadre of gifted Kai Masters who, in turn, were able to commence the teaching of their skills to subsequent intakes of Kai novices. Readily the Kai Masters rose to their newfound responsibilities, leaving you free to devote more of your time to the pursuit and perfection of the Grand Master Disciplines. During this period you also received expert tutelage in the ways of magic from two of your most trusted friends and advisors: Guildmaster Banedon, leader of the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, and Lord Rimoah, speaker for the High Council of the Elder Magi.</p>
- <p>In the deepest subterranean level of the Monastery, a hundred feet below the Tower of the Sun, you ordered the excavation and construction of a special vault. In this magnificent chamber wrought of granite and gold, you placed the seven Lorestones of Nyxator, the gems of Kai power which you had recovered during your quest for the Magnakai. It was here, bathed in the golden light of those radiant gems, that you spent countless hours in pursuit of perfection. Sometimes alone, sometimes in the company of your two able advisors&emdash;Banedon and Rimoah&emdash;you worked hard to develop your innate Grand Master Disciplines, and grasp the fundamental secrets of Left-handed and Old Kingdom magic. During this time you noticed many remarkable changes taking place within your body: you became physically and mentally stronger, your five primary senses sharpened beyond all that you had experienced before, and, perhaps most remarkably, your body began to age at a much slower rate. Now, for every five years that elapse you age but one year.</p>
- <p>At this time many changes were occurring beyond the borders of Sommerlund. In the regions to the northeast of Magador and the Maakengorge, the Elder Magi of Dessi and the Herbwardens of Bautar were working together in an effort to restore the dusty volcanic wasteland to its former fertile state. It was the first tentative step towards the reclamation of all the Darklands. However, their progress was painfully slow, and both parties were resigned to the fact that their efforts to undo the damage caused by the Darklords would take centuries to complete.</p>
- <p>Following the destruction of the Darklords of Helgedad, the Giaks, the most numerous of all Gnaag's troops, fled into the Darklands and sought refuge in the gigantic city-fortresses of Nadgazad, Aarnak, Gournen, Akagazad and Kaag. Within each of these hellish strongholds, fierce fighting broke out as remnants of the Xaghash (lesser Darklords) and the Nadziranim (evil practitioners of Right-handed magic who once aided individual Darklord masters) fought for control. It is widely believed that by the time the Elder Magi and the Herbwardens reach the walls of these strongholds they will encounter no resistance; the occupants will have long since brought about their own extinction.</p>
- <p>Elsewhere, throughout Northern Magnamund, peace reigns victorious and the peoples of the Free Kingdoms rejoice in the knowledge that the age of the Darklords has finally come to an end. Readily men have exchanged their swords for hoes and their shields for ploughs, and now the only marching they do is along the ruts of their freshly furrowed fields. Few are the watchful eyes that scan the distant horizon in fear of what may appear, although there are still those who maintain their vigilance, for the agents of Naar come in many guises and there are those in Magnamund who wait quietly in the shadows for the chance to do his evil bidding.</p>
- <p>Already your newfound skills have been tested against Naar's agents and you have, on each such occasion, acquitted yourself admirably. But your continuing victories against his minions have enraged the Dark God, and rarely has his lust for vengeance been greater than it is at present. Recently, Lord Rimoah has counselled you to be extra vigilant, for he fears that Naar is getting ready to strike at Sommerlund anew. The Elder Magi have received warnings from President Kadharian of Magador that something strange is taking place in the north of his country, in the mountainous territory which borders upon the Maakengorge. Freak storms and unseasonal weather have swept this remote region, and the night skies over Lake Vorndarol have, for several weeks now, been illuminated by eerie, inexplicable lights.</p>
- <p>Lord Rimoah fears that Naar is plotting to revive Vashna, the greatest of all the Darklords, whose spirit is trapped deep within the fathomless reaches of the Maakengorge. It has remained there, in uneasy entombment, ever since the day the Darklord was defeated in battle by King Ulnar I of Sommerlund. Vashna's body, along with those of his loathsome troops, was hurled into the abyss, hopefully never to be seen again. Legend has it that the Darklord's body was destroyed but his spirit still lives on. He is said to be awaiting the day when he shall be made to rise, at the head of a vast army of undead warriors, and set loose to wreak his revenge upon Sommerlund and the house of Ulnar.</p>
- <p><quote>If it is Naar's intention to resurrect Vashna and his army from the depths of the Maakengorge,</quote> said an anxious Lord Rimoah, as you and he discussed the situation in the secure privacy of your vault below the Kai Monastery, <quote>then no free realm upon the face of Magnamund will be safe. It has always been Sommerlund's misfortune that Ulnar's victory over Vashna was never total. I have always feared that the legacy of the Maakengorge would one day awaken and confront us&ellips; and I fear, unless we act swiftly, that that day is about to dawn.</quote></p>
- <p>For several hours, you and your learned advisor deliberated what could be done to prevent such a catastrophe. You decided that the exact nature of the threat had first to be determined if you were to combat it effectively. You were confident that your Grand Master Disciplines would enable you to unravel this mystery quickly, and so you volunteered to journey to northern Magador and investigate the strange incidents at first hand. After all, there could be a perfectly innocent explanation for them.</p>
- <p><quote>Let us hope it is so, Grand Master,</quote> said Lord Rimoah, earnestly, <quote>but, nevertheless, do not forget what could confront you there. I shall pray to Kai and Ishir to watch over and guide you on the journey ahead, Lone Wolf, and bring you home, swiftly, safely and victoriously.</quote></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gamerulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="tssf" />
- <link class="next" idref="discplnz" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-1-foot" idref="gamerulz-1">
- <p>The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- </footnote>
- <footnote id="gamerulz-2-foot" idref="gamerulz-2">
- <p>Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>For more than six years, ever since the demise of the Darklords of Helgedad, you have devoted yourself to developing further your fighting prowess&emdash;<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>&emdash;and physical stamina&emdash;<typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Before you begin your first Grand Master adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick a 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 31). When you fight, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points).</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If at any time your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points can never rise above the number you have when you start an adventure.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series (Books 1&endash;15), you can carry your current scores of <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points over to Book 16. These scores may include Weaponmastery, Curing, and Psi-surge bonuses obtained upon completion of Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1&endash;5) or Magnakai (Books 6&endash;12) adventures.<a id="gamerulz-1" idref="gamerulz-1-foot" class="footnote" /> Only if you have completed these previous adventures will you benefit from the appropriate bonuses in the course of the Grand Master series. You may also carry over any Weapons and Backpack Items you had in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new Grand Master <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry up to ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over from the Lone Wolf Kai (Books 1&endash;5) and Magnakai (Books 6&endash;12) series to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Books 13-onwards):<a id="gamerulz-2" idref="gamerulz-2-foot" class="footnote"/></p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Dagger of Vashna</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Helshezag</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- </ul>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="discplnz">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gamerulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="equipmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="discplnz-1-foot" idref="discplnz-1">
- <p>The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6&endash;12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13&endash;20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature's sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell, and night vision.</dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the Gods Kai and Ishir go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered <em>four</em> of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in <em>two</em> of the weapons listed below.<a id="discplnz-1" idref="discplnz-1-foot" class="footnote" /></p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 4 points without loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. (Kai-surge, Psi-surge, and Mindblast cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to spirit-walk for far greater lengths of time, and with far fewer ill effects. Duration, and the protection of his inanimate body, increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title>Magi-magic</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros&emdash;the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of Left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and artifacts.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the fourth of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.17tdoi;">Book 17</a>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four Disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score and 2 points to your basic <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline(s), your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure, which is called <a href="&link.17tdoi;"><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>.</a></p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="equipmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="discplnz"/>
- <link class="next" idref="cmbtrulz"/>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Before you set off on your long journey to Magador, you take with you a <a idref="map">map of the Maakengorge and surrounding territories</a> and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> and add 20 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote>Gold Crowns</quote> section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any of the previous Lone Wolf adventures (Books 1&endash;15), you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. Fifty Crowns is the maximum you can carry, but additional Crowns can be left in safekeeping at your monastery.</p>
- <p>You can take four items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess from previous adventures (remember, you are still limited to two Weapons, but you may now carry a maximum of ten Backpack Items).</p>
- <ul class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Sword (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li><p>Bow (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Quiver (Special Items) This contains six Arrows: record them on your weapons list.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="quiver.gif" width="386" height="127"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="quiver.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Axe (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>2 Meals (Meals) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="food.gif" width="386" height="152"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="food.pdf" width="386" height="91"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Rope (Backpack Item)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="rope.gif" width="386" height="109"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="rope.pdf" width="386" height="109"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li>
- <p>Potion of Laumspur (Backpack Item) This potion restores 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for only one dose.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="potion.gif" width="386" height="167"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="potion.pdf" width="386" height="127"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- <li><p>Quarterstaff (Weapons)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Dagger (Weapons)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="dagger.gif" width="386" height="157"/>
- <instance class="pdf" src="dagger.pdf" width="386" height="103"/>
- </illustration>
- </li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>List the four items that you choose on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, under the appropriate headings, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points or <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="howuse">
- <meta>
- <title>How to Use Your Equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weapons</dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of weapons that you can carry is two. Weapons aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct weapon, it adds 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>. If you find a weapon during your adventure, you may pick it up and use it.</p></dd>
- <dt>Bows and Arrows</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a Bow and Arrow. If you equip yourself with this weapon, and you possess at least one Arrow, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The Bow is a useful weapon, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a Bow cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat weapon, such as a sword or axe.</p>
- <p>In order to use a Bow you must possess a quiver and at least one Arrow. Each time the Bow is used, erase an Arrow from your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. A Bow cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of Arrows, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of Arrows.</p>
- <p>If you have the Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery with a Bow, you may add 3 to any number that you pick from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>, when using the Bow.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Backpack Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>These must be stored in your Backpack. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of ten articles, including Meals, in your Backpack at any one time. You may only carry one Backpack at a time. During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may decide to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p>
- <p>Any item that may be of use, and which can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> is given either initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant), or is clearly labelled as a Backpack Item. Unless you are told that it is a Special Item, carry it in your Backpack.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Special Items</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Special Items are not carried in the Backpack. When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how or where to carry it. The maximum number of Special Items that can be carried on any adventure is twelve.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>The currency of Magador is the Gold Crown. These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your Backpack. Each Meal counts as one item. You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. If you have chosen the Discipline of Grand Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p></dd>
- <dt>Potion of Laumspur</dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are Backpack Items.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="cmbtrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="equipmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="levels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to zero while losing as few <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, giving him a total <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 35.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack's <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +5. (35−30 = +5). +5 is noted on the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +5. If the number picked from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A <a idref="crsumary">summary of Combat Rules</a> appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="evasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="levels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Kai Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="cmbtrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="imprvdsc" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter-separate" id="imprvdsc">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="levels" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaiwisdm" />
- </meta>
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote id="imprvdsc-1-foot" idref="imprvdsc-1">
- <p>The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- </footnote>
- </footnotes>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery, you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, if you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this Discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian's bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infravision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Splinter</spell>&emdash;This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Flameshaft</spell>&emdash;This causes the tip of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this Discipline are able to wield two-handed weapons (i.e. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, Spear) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature's body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Discipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Halt Missile</spell>&emdash;This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. Arrows, axes, crossbow bolts etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2&endash;3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li><spell>Strength</spell>&emdash;By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.<a id="imprvdsc-1" idref="imprvdsc-1-foot" class="footnote" /></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="sunlord">
- <meta><title>Sun Lord</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Lord (7 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, i.e. they can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-blast&emdash;a pulse of intense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points in one attack. A Kai Sun Lord using Kai-blast determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a <quote>0</quote> = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted. However, use of a Kai-blast will reduce a Sun Lord's <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surfaces, e.g. water, mud, lava, and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><spell>Penetrate</spell>&emdash;This increases the penetrative energy of any Arrow or Arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</li>
- <li><spell>Energy Grasp</spell>&emdash;This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the Brotherhood spell <spell>Lightning Hand</spell>, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
- <p>The nature of any additional improvements and how they affect your Grand Master Disciplines will be noted in the Improved Grand Master Disciplines section of future Lone Wolf books.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kaiwisdm">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master's Wisdom</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="imprvdsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="sect1" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Northern Magador, which borders upon the Maakengorge, is a notoriously wild and treacherous region. Be wary and on your guard at all times, for you can expect little help from the outlaws and fell creatures who dwell in this area.</p>
- <p>Some of the things that you will encounter during your mission will be of use to you in this and future Lone Wolf books, while others may be red herrings of no real value at all. If you discover any items, be selective in what you choose to keep.</p>
- <p>Pick your four Grand Master Disciplines with care, for a wise choice will enable any player to complete the mission, no matter how weak their initial <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> scores may be. Successful completion of previous Lone Wolf adventures, although an advantage, is not essential for the completion of this Grand Master adventure.</p>
- <p>May the light of Kai and Ishir be your guide as you venture into the unknown.</p>
- <p>For Sommerlund and the Kai!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sense of foreboding hangs over you as you mount your horse and head towards the city's south gate. There, a couple of tired night guards grumble wearily at your demand for the gate to be opened.</p>
- <p>'What's the hurry?' they growl. The door finally opens and you gallop through the arch.</p>
- <p>Half a mile beyond a stone bridge you see a signpost. An arrow pointing to the south says, 'Meadowood 1/2 mile/Holmgard 80 miles', and the other arrow, pointing west says simply, 'Old Mine Road'.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to continue south along the highway, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you decide to take the road heading west, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shouting your power-word, you point at the snarling Giaks. The lightning bolt breaks into several smaller energy pulses that rip into the evil warriors, sending them tumbling in all directions. Seizing the opportunity, you turn and run deeper into the ruined temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reining your horse to a halt, you stare down at the two dead Rangers. Their chests are scorched as if they were both struck by lightning. A Sword and a Mace lie close by. You may take either of these weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The one-roomed hut is damp and deserted. You scan the moss-covered walls for a good hiding place and your attention is caught by a large stone fireplace. You waste no time in climbing up the flue. Minutes later you hear the Giaks enter the hut in search of you. You try to keep as still as possible but you are desperate to sneeze.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the spell of Silence, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you do not possess this spell, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A search of the cupboards uncovers 2 Gold Crowns, enough food for one Meal, and the old man's Silver Warhammer. If you wish to take this, mark it on your <a idref='action'>Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry tucked into your belt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Quickly, take cover in the forest,' you shout to Daron and Thelda. But their little pony is terrified by the black-winged Kraan. It panics and gallops off into the trees on the other side of the highway. You are forced to ride deeper into the forest to avoid the black arrows of their Giak riders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73"><link-text>Turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few minutes later you see a line of wagons on the highway ahead. A group of merchants are arguing with a patrol of Border Rangers who stand guard at a barricade. The Rangers are refusing to allow anyone to pass through the village of Meadowood. 'No good you trying,' calls a disgruntled coachman.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to ask the Rangers to allow you through, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to stop and talk to the coachman, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast your spell and catch all three of them by surprise. They struggle to free themselves but to no avail. The Kraan, fearing its riders have fallen into the clutches of a hideous monster, flies away to avoid a similar fate. The path is now clear and you seize your chance of escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a wave of pain makes you scream out. Two arrows have passed through your chest and back, smashing the air from your lungs. You fall from the saddle, crashing to the soft earth with a terrible jolt.</p>
- <p>The last thing you hear are gasps of horror as the Rangers recognize your sky-blue robes.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As night falls, you reach the tiny village of Oak Hill, less than twenty miles from the Monastery of the Kai. There is no tavern here, but the blacksmith is well known for his generous hospitality.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to stop at the blacksmith's house, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you choose to sleep out in the open, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For over an hour you move stealthily through the trees, straining for the sound of an approaching Giak patrol or nearby Kraan.</p>
- <p>Gradually the trees begin to thin out and you can see the ruins of an ancient temple. You take refuge beneath a fallen pillar. As you catch your breath, you remove the Guildmaster's envelope from your robe. Now that war has begun, it will be safer to commit its contents to memory rather than allow it to fall into enemy hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rush into the fray, the familiar sound of Kraan wings return. Hovering above you are six of the fearsome creatures. The peasants panic and flee, leaving you to face the Kraan alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to try to escape, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly, you cast the spell, circling your palm behind your head to form the shield. An instant later, two arrows just miss your back. Your magic has saved your life, but it has not protected you from a third arrow that gouges your left leg. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Wincing with pain, you press on until you have left the archers far behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon learn that your companions' names are Daron and Thelda, and that their father owns a bakery at Searsby.</p>
- <p>An hour has passed when you hear the beat of huge wings. A great cloud of black-winged creatures appears flying in a vast formation that darkens the sky. Your heart sinks. The Darklords, the ancient enemy of your people, are attacking. War has begun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you decide to seek the shelter of the forest, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track continues for several miles down a steep wooded hillside to arrive at a little bridge spanning a deep, crystal-clear stream. A young woman dressed in padded leather armour stands there, warily watching you approach.</p>
- <p>'Where are you bound for, young wizard?' she asks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to tell her your destination, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you demand that she allow you across the bridge, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giaks form a semi-circle, holding you at bay with the points of their spears. Suddenly, a clutch of Kraan glide across the trees and drop their riders almost on top of you. Their leader screams 'Darg!' and, as one, the Giaks charge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you whisper the spell-chant, a wave of fear numbs your senses.</p>
- <p>You are in the presence of a great and malicious evil. The woman senses your fear and a smile spreads across her face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quick thinking saves you from the full impact of the lightning bolt. It passes close by your head, blistering the skin on your cheek and causing your hair to smoulder. The Helghast screams a terrible cry that claws at your mind (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the pain quickly fades as you gallop away from the village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46"><link-text>Turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leave your hiding place, a cry echoes in your ears. 'Ogadak - Dok taag!' You thrust the envelope back into your robes and clamber across the ruins. Giaks appear as if from nowhere; one has his arm drawn back ready to throw a spear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to try to dodge the spear, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the spell under your breath. A shiver runs the length of your spine as you sense evil. It comes, not from the cabin, but from the wooded hills beyond. It is many miles away but you can feel it drawing closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to hide in the cabin, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to turn away from the approaching evil and press on through the forest, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive in time to witness a handful of peasants armed with pitchforks attacking two Giaks on Doomwolves. Although superior in numbers, they are no match for these ferocious fighters who have already killed many of their kinfolk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you wish to aid the peasants, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you choose to avoid the fight, you can run back along the track by <link-text>turning to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cannot hold back the sneeze. Within seconds, three ugly Giak faces are squinting up the chimney at you, prodding your feet with their spears. You hurriedly climb the flue only to find a couple of Kraan hovering above. They drop their Giak riders on the roof, and a voice shrieks: 'Dok ek!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper's cheerful mood changes to a stony stare. 'Get out o' here!' he shouts angrily.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you have the spell of Mind Charm, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to leave the tavern, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the smiling Ranger walks nearer, your horse becomes nervous and skittish. It takes a great deal of effort to bring him under control. When you glance at the Ranger once more, your skin prickles with dread at the change that has come over him. The skin of his face is writhing. It is changing colour, growing darker and tighter on his skull. His eyes glow with a red fire and fangs sprout from his bottom lip. A wave of panic leaves you breathless as you realize he is a Helghast, a hellish agent of the Darklords. A blue flame ignites at the tip of his staff and a searing charge of energy leaps towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you possess the spell of Invisible Shield, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you possess the spell of Counter Spell, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have neither of these spells, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You invoke the spell and, to the astonishment of the Giaks, leap over the edge. You are able to control your rate of descent, and gently you come to rest in a shallow ravine. You can hear the cries of Kraan and Giaks echoing through the forest. The trees are thicker to the south and you press on in that direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Spreading the fingers of your right hand wide apart, you breathe the spell-runes. The net wraps around the old man, pinning him firmly to his chair. As you step forward to take away his Warhammer, the yellow bird swoops down and gouges your cheek before flying out of an open window. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>'Leave me be,' whimpers the old man. 'Take what little I have but spare my life.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to free him from the net, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you decide to leave him tied up and search his cabin for useful items, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you choose to leave the cabin and continue on your mission, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After waiting several minutes for a unit of Giaks to march away you whisper the spell and take to the air. Unfortunately, the effects wear off as you near the middle of the lake, and gradually you descend into the cold dark waters of Lake Pewas.</p>
- <p>You are forced to discard all your equipment, except for your Crystal Star Pendant and Guildmaster's Envelope, for fear of drowning (erase all but these two Special Items from your <a idref='action'>Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>Eventually, you reach the far side and stumble ashore, cold and bedraggled. However, if you possess the spell of Mend, you may restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total, for you were able to cast the spell whilst swimming across the lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain is insulted by your attempt at bribery. He knocks the coins from your hand and forces you away from the barricade at the point of his sword. Erase half the number of Gold Crowns that are noted on your <a idref='action'>Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>There is little you can do except try to circle the village under cover of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bite your lip as an arrowhead gouges a deep furrow across your thigh (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The pain makes you swoon but you manage to press on until you have left the Rangers far behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense no evil in these children and you have no cause to doubt their word. They smile with joy when you agree to join them on the ride south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From around a bend in the street ahead, a Ranger appears. He is carrying a long black staff. He smiles and waves at you to slow down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to slow down and see what he wants, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you decide to ignore him and gallop on, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A Giak, taller than the others and dressed from head to foot in black chainmail, curses and whips his troops with a barbed flail to get them to pursue you.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a figure dressed in green leaps out of the undergrowth wielding an axe. Your heart skips a beat as he raises the weapon to strike, but he fells a Giak lurking behind your back - not you! The stranger has saved your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Welcome to my humble home, welcome,' beams the wrinkle-faced old man.</p>
- <p>As you close the door, a sudden shriek sets your nerves on edge. 'Now, now, Galir!' says the old man, reproving a large yellow-feathered bird perched on a mirror above the mantelpiece. Irritably it flaps its wings and emits a curious warbling sound that the old man appears to understand. The man's expression becomes less friendly and his fingers tighten around the silver handle of an ornate Warhammer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you have the spell of Net, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to draw your sword and attack the old man, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to escape into the forest, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the foul creature dies it tumbles from the bridge and is washed away by the fast-flowing stream. If you have the spell of Mend, you can take this opportunity to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by wading into the water and casting the spell. Before remounting your horse, you must eat a meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kraan heads west and soon lands in a clearing teeming with Giak soldiers. Roughly you are dragged from the saddle and thrown into a deep pit that holds three other humans, all Sommlending like yourself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you have the spell of Levitation, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you do not possess this spell, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake at dawn, refreshed and eager to continue your mission. The blacksmith's nephew and niece join you for a hearty breakfast and then accompany you to the stable to collect your horse. They share a small black pony called Bobin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You put up a brave struggle but you are soon overwhelmed. They tie your hands and confiscate everything you possess, except for your Crystal Star Pendant, and the Guildmaster's Message, both of which they fail to discover.</p>
- <p>'Dok ziran,' shouts a Giak officer pointing at you, 'Dok kag eg oknar oka.'</p>
- <p>Suddenly you are grabbed and thrown across the saddle of a Kraan. An ugly-faced Giak sits behind you, his knife held to your throat as the beast takes to the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you do not have this spell, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ranger raises his black staff and aims it at your chest. A wave of nausea knots your stomach as suddenly you witness a terrible change. The skin that covers the Ranger's face is writhing, growing darker and tighter on his skull. His eyes glow red and great curved fangs have pushed themselves through his lower jaw. You stifle a scream as you realize he is a Helghast, a powerful shape-changing agent of the Darklords. A blazing blue flame ignites at the tip of his staff and a bolt of energy leaps towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you have the spell of Counter Spell, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you do not have this spell you can try to dodge the energy bolt by <link-text>turning to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">Or you can try to trample the Helghast beneath your horse's hooves. <link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Take it easy, old man. I mean you no harm,' you say, as you cut the magical netting that binds him to his rocking chair. 'Your yellow bird seems to have misjudged me, for I have not come here to rob you.'The old man listens with interest to your explanation and gives you some advice on how to reach the Monastery of the Kai.</p>
- <p>You thank the old man and as you turn to leave he offers to exchange his Warhammer for any two items in your Backpack (excluding Meals). If you wish to make the exchange, erase two items of your choice and mark the Silver Warharnmer as a Special Item which you carry tucked into your belt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On seeing the green-cloaked stranger emerge from the woods, the Giak officer orders his troops to run to the shelter of the forest. For the time being, the danger has passed.</p>
- <p>Wiping the sweat from your brow, you turn to thank your unexpected rescuer and, as you do so, you recognize the clothes he wears: they are the green tunic and cloak of a Kai initiate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing your hand across your face to invoke the spell, you form an invisible shield between yourself and the bolt of energy. Unfortunately, the bolt is magical, and it passes through the shield unhindered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72"><link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The message is a warning that the Darklords have mustered a vast army beyond the Durncrag Range. The Guildmaster urges the Kai to cancel the feast of Fehmarn and prepare immediately for war. He fears that Sommerlund has been betrayed by a wizard of the brotherhood, called Vonotar.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, you hear the crunch of iron-shod boots on stone, and before you can destroy the Guildmaster's message, a Giak booms: 'Zazgog rek okaka.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you wish to move deeper into the ruins, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Border Rangers of Sommerlund are expert archers, and as you hear the hiss of their arrows speeding towards your back you pray that luck is on your side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you possess the spell of Invisible Shield, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have this spell, pick a number from the <a idref='random'>Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If the number you have chosen is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If the number is 3-7, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If the number is 8-9, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike at the old man's head, but he parries your blow with his Warhammer. To your horror, your sword blade disintegrates as soon as it touches the weapon's silver haft. Cackling with glee, the old man leaps into the attack, brandishing his enchanted Warhammer above his head.</p>
- <p>Old Tadeus <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 18</p>
- <p>You must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for you are now unarmed. If you have the spell of Vigour, you may cast it to increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, but be sure to deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">You may evade combat after three rounds, by escaping to your horse. <link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to the edge of a small lake where many Giaks and Drakkarim are being marshalled into units. You sense that the Kai Monastery lies on the other side of the lake, and you try to think of a way to get across the water unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you have the spell of Levitation, and you wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you want to swim across the lake, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you decide to skirt around the lake, under cover of the forest, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden several miles before you dare rest. You stop by the banks of a stream and allow your horse to drink. If you have the spell of Mend, you can take this opportunity to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by standing in the stream and casting the spell. Before you remount and continue, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb through a tunnel of trees and emerge at the top of a rocky knoll. About three miles to the south you can see a huge cloud of Kraan circling a grey stone building. You watch with grim fascination as they tear at the walls with their talons. Suddenly, you are disturbed by the sound of rustling undergrowth, and you spin around in time to see a handful of Giaks charging towards you. You turn to run, but find yourself teetering on the brink of a steep drop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you have the spell of Levitation, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you do not have this spell, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Rangers are not impressed by your request to be allowed through Meadowood. A Ranger captain tells you to return to Toran. They are searching for a spy who has murdered three of his men. Until he is caught, nobody can pass through Meadowood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you have the spell of Mind Charm, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you do not have this spell, you can offer him some Gold Crowns, by <link-text>turning to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">Or you can try to circle Meadowood by riding through the forest. <link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dozen black-winged creatures appear overhead. They are Kraan, and on their backs are shrieking Giaks eager to fight. Suddenly, the Kraan swoop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to evade the attack by entering the forest, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foul-mouthed Giaks cackle with joy as they close in for combat. You must fight all three as one enemy.</p>
- <p>Giaks <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 16 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 18</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">You can evade combat after three rounds by running into the forest. <link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you win the combat, you can escape along the south path by <link-text>turning to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive aside and the spear whistles past your arm, tearing the cuff of your robe but drawing no blood. Quickly, you scramble to your feet and run deeper into the ruins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely seconds to act. Desperately you jerk your horse to the left to avoid the crackling blue pulse of flame.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref='random'>Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If the number you have chosen is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If the number is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave all you carry (except for your Crystal Star Pendant and Guildmaster's Envelope) on this side of the lake, for fear of drowning.</p>
- <p>After fifteen minutes you reach the far side and stumble ashore, cold and bedraggled. However, if you possess the spell of Mend, you may restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total, for you were able to cast the spell whilst swimming across the lake,</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She unsheathes a black sword and emits a hideous laugh. The skin on her face is starting to writhe and change colour, growing darker with each passing second. Her eyes glow with red fire and long fangs appear from her lower jaw as she creeps slowly towards you. Shock leaves you breathless as you realize that she is a Helghast, a powerful shape-changing servant of the Darklords. Before you can think of using one of your spells, the Helghast hauls you out of the saddle. You land heavily on the stony ground and fumble in desperation for a weapon as the creature's black sword whistles towards your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have a Silver Warhammer, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This road is little better than a rough forest track. Soon all trace of it disappears. You urge your horse through a mass of tangled undergrowth until you happen upon a moss-covered log cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to take a closer look at the cabin, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to press on and try to find traces of the old mine road, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have the spell of Sense Evil, and if you wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release a bolt of lightning at the first of a number of Kraan screaming towards you. The pulse of energy tears through its chest, flipping it backwards and scattering its Giak crew like rag dolls. Two Kraan collide with it in mid-air and come crashing down in a tangled heap.</p>
- <p>However, your magic has attracted more Kraan and quickly you realize you must take to the forest if you are to avoid being overwhelmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You learn that the Rangers are searching for a Darklord spy. Last night he killed three Rangers, here in Meadowood. He escaped but is still somewhere in the area. The Rangers have sealed off the highway and are not letting anyone through until the spy is caught or killed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to approach the Rangers and ask them to allow you to pass, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you decide to ride back to the junction at Old Mine Road, and try to circle the village, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout the spell-words and feel a chill as some of your body warmth drains away to form the counter spell. A flat sphere of translucent red mist suddenly appears in the path of the oncoming bolt and, as they collide, a splash of violet flame erupts in front of your eyes. A tremendous shock wave knocks you back in the saddle and your startled horse rears up, but somehow you manage to regain control. The Helghast emits a cry that rakes your mind (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the pain quickly fades as you gallop away from Meadowood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46"><link-text>Turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race back along the forest track, but a Kraan swoops down and drops three Giaks on the path ahead. They unsheathe curved swords and utter vile curses as they stalk nearer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you have the spell of Net, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to draw your weapon and fight these three Giak soldiers, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to escape into the forest, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, you point your finger at the grinning Giak rider and say the power words. There is an intense flash of blue light and a scream as your bolt decapitates him. His body somersaults backwards off the Kraan which begins to climb, its load instantly halved. The spell has burned through your bonds and now you can pull yourself into a sitting position. With blows to its head and neck, you force the Kraan to land in the forest. As soon as its clawed feet touch the soil, you leap from the saddle and run for cover.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature laughs manically as it raises the sword to strike again. Valiantly you try to fend off the attack, but you are greatly weakened through loss of blood. The last thing you hear as the black sword descends is the Helghast's mocking laugh of victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place the envelope back into your robe and peek carefully over a broken marble slab. A squad of Giaks have entered the ruins and are systematically searching every square inch. Suddenly, a group appear to your left. They see you and raise the alarm: 'Ogadak!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you wish to evade the Giaks, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dense foliage makes it difficult to pass through the trees on horseback, so you keep to a narrow track. Suddenly, a patrol of Rangers rush out of the trees behind you. They have bows and are preparing to fire them at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to call out to them to hold their fire, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you decide to escape along the track as fast as your horse will carry you, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A crackle of blue flame bursts from your enemy's sword as it strikes the haft of your Silver Warhammer. The Helghast recoils from the blow, allowing you to stagger to your feet, but it soon recovers and attacks again. You cannot evade combat and must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <p>Helghast <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 21 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 28</p>
- <p>If you have the spell of Vigour, you may cast it before combat begins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Three hours pass before a Drakkarim officer appears at the edge of the pit and stares down at you with contempt. He barks an order and a circle of Giak archers appear. The last thing you hear is the hiss of their deadly black arrows.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You knock on the door of the blacksmithy. It opens and a small plump woman stands before you, hurriedly wiping her hands on her chequered apron. She smiles and calls for Tym, her husband, as she ushers you into the dark warmth of the smithy. Tym the blacksmith welcomes you with a firm handshake. 'My word, Petrea, we're honoured to have a journeyman with us tonight,' he says to his wife.</p>
- <p>You enjoy a delicious supper, during which the blacksmith asks a favour of you. His nephew and niece, who are staying at the blacksmithy, are due to return home to their village in the morning. They live in Searsby, which lies to the south, where the road to the Kai Monastery branches off from the main highway. All he asks is that you accompany them home. You can hardly refuse the blacksmith's request, especially after enjoying his food and hospitality.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount and tether your horse before climbing the rickety steps to the cabin door. Through a cracked window pane you can see an old man sitting in a rocking chair. He is smoking a clay pipe and reading a leather-bound book. As you approach the door, you tread on a twig that snaps with a loud crack.</p>
- <p>'Who's there?' calls the old man.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to enter the cabin, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you decide to press on through the forest, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you move through the enemy-infested trees, but less than a hundred yards from the water's edge you are spotted by a Kraan patrol. You cannot evade them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You weave back and forth across the track, to present the archers with a harder target. Your tactics pay off, for although an arrow grazes your scalp (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), it is just a flesh wound. Wiping a trickle of blood away, you press on and soon leave the archers cursing your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Crashing headlong through the bracken, you fight to stay on your feet as you make your escape. Everywhere you hear the cries of Kraan and Giaks echoing through the trees. After ten minutes, the trees start to thin out and you can just make out the shape of a stone hut nestling at the bottom of a shallow ravine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to hide in this hut, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to push on deeper into the forest, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ask her once more to let you cross, this time using your spell of Mind Charm to persuade her you are friendly. Unfortunately, your spell does not have the desired effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The energy bolt smashes into your unprotected chest and hurls you out of the saddle. Your chest is ablaze and tongues of orange flame flicker before your eyes - but you feel no pain. Only numbness and the irresistible urge to sleep fill your body. As your eyes slowly close, you do not see the Helghast raise its black staff to finish you off.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart is pounding fit to burst as you urge your horse through the ever-thickening foliage. The forest soon becomes too dense to continue on horseback and you are forced to press on by foot. You force your way through the rich vegetation until you discover a track. To the north you can make out some huts; to the south the path disappears into wooded hills.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to head north towards the huts, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to go south towards the hills, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You invoke the spell just in time, and your violent sneezing goes undetected by the Giak soldiers searching the hut below. You wait several minutes before leaving your hiding place and pushing on through the forest to the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Under the influence of your magic, a calm descends on the man and his anger is swiftly replaced by his usual jollity. 'I'm sorry,' he says, 'please forgive my rudeness. I don't know what came over me.'</p>
- <p>He ushers you to a table near the fireplace that is set for dinner, and calls to his son to prepare you a meal. The food is delicious: restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total before leaving the tavern and continuing on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She answers by grasping the hilt of a weapon sheathed at her side. Her expression is stern and unfriendly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you have the spell of Mind Charm, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you have the spell of Sense Evil, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you decide to offer her some Gold Crowns to let you cross the bridge, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the surprise of his men, the Captain orders the barricade to be drawn aside. You are allowed to pass, but as you are riding towards the village, you hear the Captain shouting: 'Stop that rider!'</p>
- <p>Your spell has begun to wear off. Spurring your horse to a gallop, you race along the deserted main street of Meadowood. Two bloodstained bodies lie on the road ahead; they are Rangers and they appear to be dead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to stop and examine the bodies, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you decide to ride on as fast as you can, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of your fellow captives, a young hill farmer, unties the cords that bind your wrists. With your hands free once more, you whisper the spell of Levitation and slowly rise to the edge of the pit. The others are amazed but they stay silent so as not to jeopardize your escape. Patiently you wait for the right moment before emerging from the pit and diving into the cover of the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake shortly after dawn to a chill morning and, unless you possess a blanket, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You are rising to your feet when suddenly you realize you are being watched. Two children, a boy and a girl, are sitting astride a little black pony, staring at you in disbelief.</p>
- <p>'Have you been asleep here all night?' asks the young girl. You nod.</p>
- <p>'You should have called on our uncle,' says the boy, 'he's the blacksmith of Oak Hill. He would have given you a bed for the night.'</p>
- <p>The little girl leans forward and offers you some bread and cheese. Gratefully you accept her kind offer (restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p>'We're on our way to Searsby for the feast of Fehmarn,' says her brother. 'Are you going that way?'</p>
- <p>The village of Searsby lies to the south, where a road to the Kai Monastery branches off from the main highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to accompany the children south, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you have the spell of Sense Evil, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You offer your hand in friendship and it is gratefully received. After introducing yourself, you hand over the Guildmaster's Envelope. The Kai Lord studies the message and a great sadness fills his eagle eyes.</p>
- <p>'Alas, the wisdom of this warning has arrived too late to save my kin. The war has already begun and my brothers in arms were the first to fall to the evil host of Helgedad. They are dead, and I am all that remains of the Kai. Your mission is complete, Banedon, but mine has only just begun. I, Lone Wolf, must journey to Holmgard to warn the King. He will know what must be done to save our land.'</p>
- <p>Instinctively, you remove your Crystal Star Pendant and hand it to the last Kai warrior. It is a talisman of good luck and you pray that it protects him on the perilous road ahead.</p>
- <p>Your mission is complete!</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="map">
- <meta><title>The Maakengorge & Surrounding Territories</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration>
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="map.jpg" width="1024" height="768" class="html" />
- <instance src="map.pdf" width="1024" height="768" class="pdf" />
- </illustration>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="action">
- <meta><title>Action Chart</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acstats.gif" width="386" height="286" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acdscplz.gif" width="386" height="207" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acitems.gif" width="386" height="161" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acbckpck.gif" width="386" height="137" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>JC Alvarez & Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="acspcl.gif" width="386" height="280" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac1.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac2.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="ac3.tex" width="400" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crsumary">
- <meta><title>Combat Rules Summary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>Add your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> to any extra points given to you by your Kai Disciplines.</li>
- <li>Subtract the <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of your enemy from this total. This number = Combat Ratio.</li>
- <li>Pick number from <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Turn to the <a idref="crtable">Combat Results Table</a>.</li>
- <li>Find your Combat Ratio on the top of the chart and cross-reference to the random number you have picked. (E indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Enemy. LW indicates loss of <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to Lone Wolf.)</li>
- <li>Continue the combat from Stage 3 until one character is dead. This is when <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points of either character fall to 0 or below.</li>
- </ol>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="smevazn">
- <meta><title>To Evade Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <ol>
- <li>You may only do this when the text of the adventure offers you the opportunity.</li>
- <li>You undertake one round of combat in the usual way. All points lost by the enemy are ignored, only Lone Wolf loses the <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</li>
- <li>If the book offers the chance of taking evasive action in place of combat, it can be taken in the first round of combat or any subsequent round.</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="crtable">
- <meta><title>Combat Results Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtneg.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtneg.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtpos.gif" width="386" height="472" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="crtpos.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="random">
- <meta><title>Random Number Table</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="random.gif" width="332" height="432" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="random.tex" width="380" height="500" class="tex" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errata">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errintro">
- <meta><title>Introduction</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>We have taken our unique opportunity to correct errors and to enforce a standard of English usage. We list our changes here. If you see anything that needs correction, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon Staff.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="errerr">
- <meta><title>Errata</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="tssf">The Story So Far</a>) Replaced <quote>elite</quote> with <quote>élite</quote>, <quote>no Kai lord</quote> with <quote>no Kai Lord</quote>, <quote>strongholds fierce</quote> with <quote>strongholds, fierce</quote>, <quote>Right-Handed Magic</quote> with <quote>Right-handed magic</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>new-found</quote> with <quote>newfound</quote>, <quote>Dark God and</quote> with <quote>Dark God, and</quote>, <quote>vigilant for</quote> with <quote>vigilant, for</quote>, <quote>free-state</quote> with <quote>Freeland</quote>, <quote>body, and those</quote> with <quote>body, along with those</quote>, <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>, and <quote>quickly and</quote> with <quote>quickly, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Removed <quote>that you will find in the front of this book. For ease of use, and for further adventuring, it is recommended that you photocopy these pages</quote> and <quote>on the last page of this book</quote>. Changed <quote><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></quote> to <quote><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></quote> according to <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 24</cite>. Replaced <quote>Magi-Magic</quote> with <quote>Magi-magic</quote> and <quote>opposite and overleaf</quote> with <quote>below</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced <quote>smell and</quote> with <quote>smell, and</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>(ie,</quote> with <quote>(i.e.</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="equipmnt">Equipment</a>) Replaced <quote>Magador you</quote> with <quote>Magador, you</quote>, <quote>eg Gold</quote> with <quote>e.g. Gold</quote>, <quote>map of the area</quote> with <quote>map of the the Maakengorge and surrounding territories</quote>, <quote>safe-keeping</quote> with <quote>safekeeping</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, and <quote>adds 3 points</quote> with <quote>adds 5 points</quote>. Removed <quote>(see the inside front cover of this book)</quote>. Added a section about Gold Crowns which reads <quote>The currency of Magador is the Gold Crown. These are always carried in the Belt Pouch. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="cmbtrulz">Rules for Combat</a>) Removed <quote>on the inside back cover of this book</quote>. Replaced <quote>on the page after the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a></quote> with <quote>in the back of this book</quote>, <quote>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 32)</quote> with <quote>Lone Wolf (<typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 27)</quote>, and <quote>adds 3 points</quote> with <quote>adds 8 points</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai-Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>. Replaced <quote>surface, eg:</quote> with <quote>surfaces, e.g.</quote>, <quote>ie.</quote> with <quote>i.e.</quote>, <quote>Kai Surge</quote> with <quote>Kai-surge</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>arrow, or arrow-like</quote> with <quote>Arrow or Arrow-like</quote>, <quote>lava and</quote> with <quote>lava, and</quote>, and <quote>body-weight</quote> with <quote>body weight</quote>. Added <quote>(7 Disciplines)</quote> after <quote>Sun Lord</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Improved Grand Master Disciplines</quote> and <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p><cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletter 24</cite> states: <quote>In Lone Wolf 16, the Improved Discipline of Kai-surge (at rank of Sun Lord) is not fully explained (a sentence is missing from the paragraph). A Kai Sun Lord using Kai Blast [sic] determines the damage inflicted on an enemy by picking two numbers from the <a idref="random">Random Number Table</a>. These numbers should be added together (a '0' = 1) and the resultant total equals the damage inflicted.</quote>. This missing information has been added to the text.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="kaiwisdm">Grand Master's Wisdom</a>) Moved this section of the book to its normal position after <a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Replaced <quote>skyship Skyrider</quote> with <quote>skyship, <cite>Skyrider</cite></quote> and <quote>scroll</quote> with <quote>Scroll</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect2">2</a>) Replaced <quote>animal kinship</quote> with <quote>Animal Kinship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect3">3</a>) Replaced <quote>beyond is</quote> with <quote>beyond are</quote>, <quote>Nexus, and</quote> with <quote>Nexus and</quote> and <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) Replaced <quote>tier and</quote> with <quote>tier, and</quote> and <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect9">9</a>) Replaced <quote>hand you</quote> with <quote>hand, you</quote>, <quote>appear but</quote> with <quote>appear, but</quote>, and <quote>panther you</quote> with <quote>panther, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect11">11</a>) Replaced <quote>Durncrag scavenger</quote> with <quote>Durncrag Scavenger</quote>, <quote>most-favoured</quote> with <quote>most favoured</quote>, <quote>weakened state and this</quote> with <quote>weakened state, and this</quote>, <quote>state and</quote> with <quote>state, and</quote>, <quote>skull and, as</quote> with <quote>skull, and as</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>, <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect12">12</a>) Replaced <quote>sun and</quote> with <quote>sun, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect14">14</a>) Replaced <quote>Vakovarian brigand captain</quote> with <quote>Vakovarian Brigand Captain</quote> and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect15">15</a>) Replaced <quote>will and</quote> with <quote>will, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect16">16</a>) Replaced <quote>T'is</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'Tis</quote> and <quote>not less</quote> with <quote>not 'less</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect19">19</a>) Replaced <quote>psi-screen</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>, <quote>sudden massive</quote> with <quote>sudden, massive</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) Replaced <quote>doorway and</quote> with <quote>doorway, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect23">23</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect25">25</a>) Replaced <quote>over and, as</quote> with <quote>over, and as</quote>, <quote>them you</quote> with <quote>them, you</quote>, <quote>can and so you</quote> with <quote>can. You</quote>, <quote>chase but</quote> with <quote>chase, but</quote>, and <quote>and they give</quote> with <quote>and give</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect29">29</a>) Replaced <quote>strike an</quote> with <quote>strike, an</quote>, <quote>this time,</quote> with <quote>this time!</quote>, <quote>alive.</quote> with <quote>alive!</quote>, <quote>Bow and arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect30">30</a>) Replaced <quote>Sun Lord or higher,</quote> with <quote>Sun Lord,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect31">31</a>) Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote> and <quote>prey on which</quote> with <quote>prey with which</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect33">33</a>) Replaced <quote>huntmastery</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery</quote> and <quote>swarthy-face</quote> with <quote>swarthy-faced</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect34">34</a>) Replaced <quote>Kraagenskul</quote> with <quote>Kraagenskûl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) Replaced <quote>Vortex</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>, <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>, and <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect39">39</a>) Replaced <quote>curing</quote> with <quote>Curing</quote>, <quote>Vakovarian brigands</quote> with <quote>Vakovarian Brigands</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect40">40</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect44">44</a>) Replaced <quote>dim blue</quote> with <quote>dim, blue</quote>, <quote>streches</quote> with <quote>stretches</quote>, and <quote>light and in its dim glow you</quote> with <quote>light, and in its dim glow, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect45">45</a>) Removed the superfluous semicolon in <quote>region; has</quote>&emdash;the original print has a suspicious looking smudge that makes no sense in this context. Replaced <quote>says, as</quote> with <quote>says as</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect46">46</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect48">48</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, and <quote>Black corvayl</quote> with <quote>Black Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect50">50</a>) Replaced <quote>them they</quote> with <quote>them, they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect51">51</a>) Replaced <quote>discipline</quote> with <quote>Discipline</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect52">52</a>) Replaced <quote>psychic ability</quote> with <quote>psychic abilities</quote> and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility yet</quote> with <quote>invisibility, yet</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect55">55</a>) Replaced <quote>runic disc</quote> with <quote>Runic Disc</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect56">56</a>) Replaced <quote>eagle eyes</quote> with <quote>eagle-eyes</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect57">57</a>) Replaced <quote>Brotherhood spell</quote> with <quote>Brotherhood Spell</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Net</quote>. Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect59">59</a>) Replaced <quote>bandits and</quote> with <quote>bandits, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect60">60</a>) Replaced <quote>hard pressed</quote> with <quote>hard-pressed</quote> and <quote>ascend but</quote> with <quote>ascend, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect61">61</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> and <quote>peak but</quote> with <quote>peak, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect62">62</a>) Replaced <quote>gods</quote> with <quote>Gods</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect63">63</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect64">64</a>) Replaced <quote>huntmastery</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery</quote>, <quote>desolate but</quote> with <quote>desolate, but</quote>, and <quote>streets and</quote> with <quote>streets, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect67">67</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect71">71</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks around <quote>Counterspell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect72">72</a>) Replaced <quote>downpour you</quote> with <quote>downpour, you</quote> and <quote>summonation</quote> with <quote>summoning</quote>. Replaced both occurrences of <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>. Added a comma after the first <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect73">73</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>. Replaced <quote>flood you</quote> with <quote>flood, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect74">74</a>) Replaced <quote>strong and</quote> with <quote>strong, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect75">75</a>) Replaced <quote>arm lock</quote> with <quote>armlock</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect76">76</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote> and <quote>acolyte Elders</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elders</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect77">77</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect80">80</a>) Replaced <quote>huntmastery</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery</quote> and <quote>desolate but</quote> with <quote>desolate, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect82">82</a>) Replaced <quote>deck and</quote> with <quote>deck, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect83">83</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>Guardian,</quote> with <quote>Guardian or higher,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect84">84</a>) Replaced <quote>Black Talisman</quote> with <quote>Black Amulet</quote> and <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect86">86</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks from <quote>Sense Evil</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect87">87</a>) Replaced <quote>scavengers</quote> with <quote>Scavengers</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect88">88</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect90">90</a>) Replaced <quote>drop and</quote> with <quote>drop, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect91">91</a>) Replaced <quote>dawn the</quote> with <quote>dawn, the</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect92">92</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect94">94</a>) Replaced <quote>Crack!</quote> with <quote>crack!</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect96">96</a>) Replaced <quote>rips</quote> with <quote>rip</quote> and <quote>flame and suddenly</quote> with <quote>flame. Suddenly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect97">97</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect98">98</a>) Replaced <quote>One by one his</quote> with <quote>One by one, his</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect99">99</a>) Replaced all occurences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>, <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect100">100</a>) Replaced <quote>t'is</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'tis</quote> and <quote>At first I, too, made</quote> with <quote>At first, I too made</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect102">102</a>) Replaced <quote>investigate and your</quote> with <quote>investigate. Your</quote> and <quote>acolyte of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolyte of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote> and <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect104">104</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect105">105</a>) Replaced <quote>Citystate</quote> with <quote>City-state</quote> and <quote>destoyed</quote> with <quote>destroyed</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect106">106</a>) Replaced <quote>life force</quote> with <quote>life-force</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect107">107</a>) Removed the quotation marks from <quote>Invisible Fist</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect108">108</a>) Replaced <quote>hesitation he</quote> with <quote>hesitation, he</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect109">109</a>) Replaced <quote>bow and draw an arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and draw an Arrow</quote> and <quote>bow and the arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and the Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect111">111</a>) Removed <quote>, or higher</quote> from <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> since Sun Lord is the highest available rank in this book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) Replaced <quote>shore and</quote> with <quote>shore, and</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect113">113</a>) Replaced <quote>off-balance</quote> with <quote>off balance</quote>, <quote>them you</quote> with <quote>them, you</quote>, <quote>can and</quote> with <quote>can, and</quote>, <quote>heels, pausing</quote> with <quote>heels pausing</quote>, and <quote>chase but</quote> with <quote>chase, but</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) Replaced <quote>sun-sword</quote> with <quote>Sun-sword</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect120">120</a>) Replaced <quote>bow, draw an arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow, draw an Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect122">122</a>) Replaced <quote>healing</quote> with <quote>Healing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Lightning Hand</quote> and replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect124">124</a>) Replaced <quote>adgana</quote> with <quote>Adgana</quote> and <quote>long discordant</quote> with <quote>long, discordant</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect125">125</a>) Replaced <quote>far sinister</quote> with <quote>far more sinister</quote> and <quote>psi-screen</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect127">127</a>) Removed the quotation marks from around <quote>Levitation</quote> and replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote>. Removed the choices at the end since they are superfluous: Lone Wolf must have Kai-alchemy to reach this section. The choices read:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>If you possess Kai-alchemy, turn to 57.</p>
- <p>If you do not possess this Grand Master Discipline, turn to 282.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The single remaining choice now reads:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p>Turn to 57.</p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>(<a idref="sect128">128</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> and <quote>animal control</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect129">129</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect130">130</a>) Replaced <quote>Vasha</quote> with <quote>Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect131">131</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect132">132</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect134">134</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect136">136</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote> and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect137">137</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote> and <quote>unconscious and</quote> with <quote>unconscious, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect138">138</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect139">139</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect140">140</a>) Replaced <quote>battle frenzy</quote> with <quote>battle-frenzy</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect141">141</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) Replaced <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) Replaced <quote>we celebrate</quote> with <quote>We celebrate</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect144">144</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote> and <quote>swoop</quote> with <quote>swoops</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect149">149</a>) Replaced <quote>command and</quote> with <quote>command, and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect153">153</a>) Replaced <quote>If you do not possess these skills, or if you have yet to attain the rank of Sun Lord,</quote> with <quote>Otherwise,</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect154">154</a>) Replaced <quote>guttering</quote> with <quote>gutter</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect157">157</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect158">158</a>) Replaced <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect159">159</a>) Replaced <quote>and it makes</quote> with <quote>which makes</quote> and <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect161">161</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect162">162</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect163">163</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) Replaced both occurrences <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect166">166</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote> and <quote>in our midst,</quote> with <quote>in our midst!</quote>, and <quote>Cadak, maniacally, &lsquot;You</quote> with <quote>Cadak maniacally. &lsquot;You</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect167">167</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>, <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote>, and <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect174">174</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect175">175</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect180">180</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>scavengers</quote> with <quote>Scavengers</quote>, <quote>paces for</quote> with <quote>paces, for</quote> and <quote>attack; they</quote> with <quote>attack: they</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect183">183</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote> and both occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect184">184</a>) Replaced <quote>whom you almost collided with</quote> with <quote>with whom you almost collided</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect185">185</a>) Replaced <quote>screwjaws</quote> with <quote>screwjaw</quote> and <quote>drunkard, when</quote> with <quote>drunkard when</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect186">186</a>) Replaced <quote>tunic, and</quote> with <quote>tunic and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect197">197</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect198">198</a>) Replaced <quote>bow and draw an arrow</quote> with <quote>Bow and draw an Arrow</quote> and <quote>jaw</quote> with <quote>jaws</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect200">200</a>) Replaced <quote>counter-attack</quote> with <quote>counterattack</quote>, <quote>acolyte Elders</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elders</quote>, <quote>face it you see, two</quote> with <quote>face it, you see two</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect204">204</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect205">205</a>) Removed <quote>, or higher</quote> from <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote>since Sun Lord is the highest available rank in this book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect207">207</a>) Replaced <quote>Huntmastery you</quote> with <quote>Huntmastery, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect208">208</a>) Replaced <quote>scavenger</quote> with <quote>Scavenger</quote>, <quote>most-favoured</quote> with <quote>most favoured</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>Jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>, <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>, and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect209">209</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>, <quote>animal kinship</quote> with <quote>Animal Kinship</quote>, and <quote>so you</quote> with <quote>so, you</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect211">211</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect212">212</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote> and replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect213">213</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect217">217</a>) Replaced <quote>healing</quote> with <quote>Healing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect222">222</a>) Replaced <quote>to the gallop</quote> with <quote>to a gallop</quote> and both occurences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect223">223</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect225">225</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect226">226</a>) Replaced <quote>furrier's shop</quote> with <quote>furriers' shop</quote>, <quote>mitts</quote> with <quote>Mitts</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>cloaks</quote> with <quote>Cloaks</quote>, <quote>corvayl</quote> with <quote>Corvayl</quote>, both occurrences of <quote>pelts</quote> in the sale list with <quote>Pelts</quote>, <quote>White wolf</quote> with <quote>White Wolf</quote>, and <quote>hides</quote> with <quote>Hides</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect227">227</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote> and <quote>man, clad in furs clutching</quote> with <quote>man clad in furs and clutching</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect228">228</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>Kai blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>. Replaced <quote>add 5 to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points score</quote> with <quote>restore 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect230">230</a>) Replaced <quote>horseshoe circle</quote> with <quote>horseshoe shape</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect232">232</a>) Replaced <quote>cloud of crypt spawn</quote> with <quote>cloud of Crypt Spawn</quote> and <quote>Crypt spawn</quote> with <quote>Crypt Spawn</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect234">234</a>) Replaced <quote>After a short while he says.</quote> with <quote>After a short while he says,</quote> and moved that phrase into the beginning of the fourth paragraph rather than at the end of the third. Replaced three occurences of <quote>amulet</quote> with <quote>Amulet</quote>. Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect236">236</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect239">239</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai lord</quote> with <quote>Kai Lord</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect241">241</a>) Replaced <quote>hunting</quote> with <quote>Hunting</quote>, <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, and <quote>longer ,</quote> with <quote>longer,</quote>. Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect247">247</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect249">249</a>) Replaced <quote>animal control</quote> with <quote>Animal Control</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect250">250</a>) Replaced <quote>Then, as you round a knoll of rock, shaped</quote> with <quote>Then as you round a knoll of rock shaped</quote> and <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect251">251</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect252">252</a>) Removed the quotation marks around <quote>Be brave, Grand Master. But most of all&emdash;be swift!</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect254">254</a>) Replaced all occurrences of <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>approaching.</quote> with <quote>approaching from.</quote>, <quote>domain, a</quote> with <quote>domain: a</quote>, and <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect255">255</a>) Replaced <quote>runic disc</quote> with <quote>Runic Disc</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect256">256</a>) Replaced <quote>north-easterly</quote> with <quote>northeasterly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect257">257</a>) Replaced <quote>Black corvayl</quote> with <quote>Black Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect261">261</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect263">263</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect264">264</a>) Replaced <quote>psi-screen</quote> with <quote>Psi-screen</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect265">265</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect268">268</a>) Replaced <quote>Vakovarian brigands</quote> with <quote>Vakovarian Brigands</quote> and <quote>rounds, by</quote> with <quote>rounds by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect269">269</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>. Replaced <quote>be&emdash;a lowly acolyte of Vashna</quote> with <quote>be: a lowly Acolyte of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect272">272</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect275">275</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect276">276</a>) Replaced <quote>Knight, or</quote> with <quote>Knight or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect277">277</a>) Replaced <quote>humble-but-honest</quote> with <quote>humble but honest</quote> and <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect283">283</a>) Removed <quote>, or higher</quote> from <quote>Sun Lord, or higher</quote> since Sun Lord is the highest available rank in this book.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect284">284</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect286">286</a>) Replaced <quote>chasm of doom</quote> with <quote>Chasm of Doom</quote> and <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect287">287</a>) Replaced <quote>gold crowns</quote> with <quote>Gold Crowns</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect288">288</a>) Replaced <quote>Elder-magi</quote> with <quote>Elder Magi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect290">290</a>) Replaced <quote>belt pouch</quote> with <quote>Belt Pouch</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) Replaced <quote>backpack</quote> with <quote>Backpack</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect294">294</a>) Replaced <quote>spell</quote> with <quote>Spell</quote> and removed the quotation marks from <quote>Mind Charm</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect296">296</a>) Replaced <quote>ever-nearer</quote> with <quote>ever nearer</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect297">297</a>) Replaced <quote>tracking</quote> with <quote>Tracking</quote> and <quote>Guardian, or</quote> with <quote>Guardian or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect300">300</a>) Replaced <quote>camouflage</quote> with <quote>Camouflage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect301">301</a>) Replaced <quote>bow, draw an arrow from your quiver</quote> with <quote>Bow, draw an Arrow from your Quiver</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect302">302</a>) Replaced <quote>Kai pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Magnakai Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect304">304</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>, <quote>Thok!</quote> with <quote>thok!</quote>, and <quote>screams, and</quote> with <quote>screams and</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect305">305</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect306">306</a>) Replaced <quote>corvayl</quote> with <quote>Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect307">307</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> and <quote>north-easterly</quote> with <quote>northeasterly</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect308">308</a>) Replaced <quote>weapon</quote> with <quote>Weapon</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect309">309</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>jackals</quote> with <quote>Jackals</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect311">311</a>) Replaced <quote>arching</quote> with <quote>arcing</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect315">315</a>) Replaced <quote>king's</quote> with <quote>King's</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect316">316</a>) Replaced <quote>token</quote> with <quote>Token</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect318">318</a>) Replaced <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect319">319</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote> and <quote>Guardian, or</quote> with <quote>Guardian or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect322">322</a>) Replaced <quote>acolyte Elder</quote> with <quote>Acolyte Elder</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect323">323</a>) Moved <quote>How can I help you, stranger?</quote> to the first paragraph and moved <quote>For an instant the look of suspicion returns to his beady eyes, then he sneers and says,</quote> to the third paragraph.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect324">324</a>) Replaced <quote>vortexi</quote> with <quote>Vortexi</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect325">325</a>) Replaced <quote>acolytes of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolytes of Vashna</quote> and <quote>ruins, by</quote> with <quote>ruins by</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect326">326</a>) Replaced <quote>Guardian, or</quote> with <quote>Guardian or</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect327">327</a>) Replaced <quote>stalagtites</quote> with <quote>stalactites</quote> and <quote>young teenage</quote> with <quote>young, teenage</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect328">328</a>) Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect329">329</a>) Replaced <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect330">330</a>) Replaced <quote>bow</quote> with <quote>Bow</quote>, all occurrences of <quote>arrows</quote> with <quote>Arrows</quote>, and <quote>quiver</quote> with <quote>Quiver</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect334">334</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>automatons</quote> with <quote>Automatons</quote> and <quote>Kai Blast</quote> with <quote>Kai-blast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect336">336</a>) Replaced <quote>corvayl</quote> with <quote>Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect337">337</a>) Replaced <quote>pathsmanship</quote> with <quote>Pathsmanship</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect338">338</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect340">340</a>) Replaced <quote>T'as been</quote> with <quote>&thinspace;'T'as been</quote> and <quote>black corvayl</quote> with <quote>Black Corvayl</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect341">341</a>) Replaced <quote>north-easterly</quote> with <quote>northeasterly</quote> and <quote>north-east</quote> with <quote>northeast</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect342">342</a>) Replaced <quote>gulley</quote> with <quote>gully</quote>, <quote>indentify</quote> with <quote>identifies</quote>, and <quote>acolyte of Vashna</quote> with <quote>Acolyte of Vashna</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect343">343</a>) Replaced <quote>sixth sense</quote> with <quote>Sixth Sense</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect344">344</a>) Replaced <quote>tree-tops</quote> with <quote>treetops</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect345">345</a>) Replaced <quote>on to</quote> with <quote>onto</quote> and <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect347">347</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>jackal</quote> with <quote>Jackal</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect348">348</a>) Replaced <quote>invisibility</quote> with <quote>Invisibility</quote> and removed the quotation marks around <quote>Mind Charm</quote>. Replaced <quote>arrow</quote> with <quote>Arrow</quote></p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect350">350</a>) Replaced both occurrences of <quote>shadow gate</quote> with <quote>Shadow Gate</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="footnotz">
- <meta><title>Footnotes</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) The Discipline bonuses mentioned do not affect your permanent scores. If you have completed previous adventures, the Disciplines that you have mastered may still be beneficial. See the Grand Master Rules section of the <a href="&link.rh;">Rules Handbook</a> for details.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="gamerulz">The Game Rules</a>) Note that this list is not identical to the one used in <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: this list is missing the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard. These items are restored to the list of permissible items from the Kai and Magnakai series again in <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>. Presumably, therefore, it should be permissible to leave the Silver Bracers and Korlinium Scabbard in safekeeping at the monastery during the intervening books and retrieve them at the outset of <cite><a href="&link.17tdoi;">The Deathlord of Ixia</a></cite>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="discplnz">Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The rules of the books in the Magnakai series (6&endash;12) and the fact that the <quote>rank of Kai Grand Defender&ellips; means you are skilled in two&ellips; weapons</quote> imply that for each book that you complete of the Grand Master series (13&endash;20), you will gain mastery of an additional Kai weapon. E.g. if you complete <cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite> and have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery at the beginning of the next book, you can choose an additional Weapon from the list to have Mastery of.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="imprvdsc">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a>) The <spell>Strength</spell> spell is, in practice, also used in armed combat contrary to what is indicated here.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect1">1</a>) Note this Scroll as a Special Item that doesn't take up any space on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect6">6</a>) This is the correct answer to the crystal dais grid in <a idref="sect164">Section 164</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect10">10</a>) This is the correct answer to Shamath's riddle in <a idref="sect189">Section 189</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect21">21</a>) If you have already spent all of your money, you have a choice: you may either give her an item of comparable or greater value, or you may simply disregard this cost.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect36">36</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect54">54</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect103">103</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect110">110</a>) This is the correct answer to second sequence of numbers on the crystal dais grid in <a idref="sect235">Section 235</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect112">112</a>) You may also eat a single Meal and only lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect118">118</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect123">123</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect135">135</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and <a idref="sect267">Section 267</a> of this book describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect142">142</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect143">143</a>) It is most likely that these Discipline bonuses are not intended to be cumulative.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect150">150</a>) It is most likely that these Discipline bonuses are not intended to be cumulative.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect164">164</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect235">turn immediately to 235</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect189">189</a>) The correct method for finding the solution of this riddle has eluded readers ever since <cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite> was published (as befits a riddle posed by an immortal demoness). If you can find the correct solution, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact</a> the Project Aon volunteers. The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect216">turn immediately to 216</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) Since this attack is described as a <quote>Kai-blast</quote>, you should deduct 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points from your current score.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect229">229</a>) The originally published edition of this book instructed you to add 5 points to your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score. We believe that our alteration to specify restoration instead of addition is closer to the intent of the author. The original led to several questions. Would this additional score be a permanent increase of your maximum <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ>? Permanent alterations of basic scores in the middle of an adventure are rare making this option unlikely. Nor does the context support this conclusion. Then would this addition only be for the duration of the combat similar to the bonus to <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>? This makes the bonus useless. If you were to complete the combat with fewer than 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points remaining and then removed the bonus after the combat was over, you would be just as dead as without the bonus. Another proposal was that you should remove the bonus from your score only if it leaves your score above the normal maximum after the combat. Although reasonable, this probably wasn't the intent of the author since he did not specify this procedure. We have opted for the simplest, most straightforward choice: that this is just a restorative effect.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect235">235</a>) The section corresponding to the correct answer will have a footnote confirming that it is indeed correct. You have only one chance to guess at the correct answer. If you guess incorrectly, <a idref="sect141">turn immediately to 141</a>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect267">267</a>) There are strong indications that Arch Druid Cadak should be immune to both Mind Blast and Psi-surge but not Kai-surge. The Cener High Priest fought in <a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a> Sections 156 and 212 is immune to these lesser psychic Disciplines, and this Section describes Arch Druid Cadak's inner mind as <quote>well-shielded</quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect293">293</a>) There is no indication whether or not the extra meals that you gather as you ride should also have a curative effect. If you decide that they do, record each on your <a idref="action">Action Chart</a> as <quote>Meal +3 <typ class="attribute">EP</typ></quote>.</p>
- <p>(<a idref="sect332">332</a>) If you have already spent all of your money, you have a choice: you may either give her an item of comparable or greater value, or you may simply disregard this cost.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="illstrat">
- <meta><title>Table of Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following is a list of all Sections containing illustrations found in this book:</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="primill">
- <meta><title>Primary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Illustration I (<a idref="sect11">Section 11</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration II (<a idref="sect21">Section 21</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration III (<a idref="sect48">Section 48</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IV (<a idref="sect60">Section 60</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration V (<a idref="sect84">Section 84</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VI (<a idref="sect97">Section 97</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VII (<a idref="sect128">Section 128</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration VIII (<a idref="sect152">Section 152</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration IX (<a idref="sect163">Section 163</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration X (<a idref="sect175">Section 175</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XI (<a idref="sect202">Section 202</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XII (<a idref="sect215">Section 215</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIII (<a idref="sect226">Section 226</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIV (<a idref="sect241">Section 241</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XV (<a idref="sect250">Section 250</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVI (<a idref="sect261">Section 261</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVII (<a idref="sect285">Section 285</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XVIII (<a idref="sect319">Section 319</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XIX (<a idref="sect327">Section 327</a>)</li>
- <li>Illustration XX (<a idref="sect345">Section 345</a>)</li>
- <li><a idref="map">The Maakengorge & Surrounding Territories</a></li>
- <li><a idref="action">Action Chart</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="secill">
- <meta><title>Secondary Illustrations</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="sect8">8</a>, <a idref="sect339">339</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect12">12</a>, <a idref="sect279">279</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect53">53</a>, <a idref="sect220">220</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect62">62</a>, <a idref="sect332">332</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect6">6</a>, <a idref="sect63">63</a>, <a idref="sect94">94</a>, <a idref="sect110">110</a>, <a idref="sect157">157</a>, <a idref="sect162">162</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect87">87</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect105">105</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect133">133</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect137">137</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect164">164</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect188">188</a>, <a idref="sect247">247</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect194">194</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect218">218</a></li>
- <li><a idref="sect235">235</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
-</gamebook>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><quote>I would be especially pleased if my granting of the rights to distribute my books in this way was seen as my <quote>millennium gift</quote> to all those devoted readers who have kept the Kai flag flying high, through all the good times, and the not-so-good. It would make me very proud indeed if this enterprise laid the foundations of a lasting legacy, securing the longevity of Lone Wolf by making my creation freely and readily accessible to current and future online generations. For them, for us, for Sommerlund and the Kai.&ellips;</quote> <strong>Joe Dever</strong></p>
- <p>Project Aon would first like to thank Joe Dever for making this generous offering of the books that we have all loved from the beginning. We are also grateful for the generosity of Rob Adams, Paul Bonner, Gary Chalk, Melvyn Grant, Richard Hook, Peter Andrew Jones, Cyril Julien, Peter Lyon, Ian Page, Graham Round, and Brian Williams for contributing their portions of the world of Magnamund to Project Aon. We would also like to acknowledge the following members of Project Aon for their diligent work:</p>
+++ /dev/null
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-18 April 2003 (version 0.11.1)
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- * Added the "xml:lang" attribute to the "core.attributes" entity.
- Although this could be used for most elements, it is primarily
- aimed at the "foreign" element.
-
-6 July 2002 (version 0.9)
- * Replaced the "caption" element and the "illustrator" attribute with
- the use of the "meta" element.
- * Renamed the "illustration-instance" element to simply "instance".
- * Removed the "character-attribute" element.
- * Added the "typ" element for typographical markup.
- * Removed the "shortname" attribute.
-
-1 June 2002 (version 0.8.3)
- * Removed the "marker" attribute from the "footnote" element.
-
-29 April 2002 (vesion 0.8.2)
- * Changed the content of the "enemy" element from "#PCDATA" to
- "%inline.content;".
-
-4 April 2002 (version 0.8.1)
- * Added the "thinspace" entity
-
-3 April 2002 (version 0.8.0)
- * Added the "thought" element.
- * Added the "foreign" element.
-
-15 March 2002 (version 0.7.0)
- * Changed the name of the "illustration-set" element to "illustration"
- and changed the name of the "illustration" element to
- "illustration-instance".
- * Made many minor changes to bring the DTD up to current practice.
-
-11 May 2001 (version 0.6.0)
- * Removed the "publication-date" element.
-
-5 May 2001 (version 0.5.0)
- * Added facilities for transformation to LaTeX - mainly appropriate
- character escapes.
- * Added the "marker" attribute to the "footnote" element.
-
-1 May 2001 (version 0.4.0)
-
- * Added the "link" element to the set of allowable "meta" elements.
- Although not a Dublin Core meta-data element, it's functionality
- adds a lot to the document.
-
-30 April 2001 (version 0.3.0)
-
- * Changed the basic orgranization of the sections by allowing them to
- have their own meta section instead of a "section-title" element.
- * Changed the name of the "section-data" element to simply "data".
-
-17 April 2001 (version 0.2.0)
-
- * Changed some of the block and inline elements in order to make them
- more useful.
-
-14 April 2001 (version 0.1.0)
-
- * First revision
- -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Table of Contents -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!--
-
- I. Entities
- A. General Entities
- B. Character Entities
- II. Hierarchical Elements
-III. Block Elements
- IV. Inline Elements
- V. Character Elements
-
- VI. Appendices
- A. Valid Document Example
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Entities -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: General Entities :::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY % character.content "ch.apos | ch.nbsp | ch.iexcl | ch.cent | ch.pound | ch.curren | ch.yen | ch.brvbar | ch.sect | ch.uml | ch.copy | ch.ordf | ch.laquo | ch.not | ch.shy | ch.reg | ch.macr | ch.deg | ch.plusmn | ch.sup2 | ch.sup3 | ch.acute | ch.micro | ch.para | ch.middot | ch.cedil | ch.sup1 | ch.ordm | ch.raquo | ch.frac14 | ch.frac12 | ch.frac34 | ch.iquest | ch.Agrave | ch.Aacute | ch.Acirc | ch.Atilde | ch.Auml | ch.Aring | ch.AElig | ch.Ccedil | ch.Egrave | ch.Eacute | ch.Ecirc | ch.Euml | ch.Igrave | ch.Iacute | ch.Icirc | ch.Iuml | ch.ETH | ch.Ntilde | ch.Ograve | ch.Oacute | ch.Ocirc | ch.Otilde | ch.Ouml | ch.times | ch.Oslash | ch.Ugrave | ch.Uacute | ch.Ucirc | ch.Uuml | ch.Yacute | ch.THORN | ch.szlig | ch.agrave | ch.aacute | ch.acirc | ch.atilde | ch.auml | ch.aring | ch.aelig | ch.ccedil | ch.egrave | ch.eacute | ch.ecirc | ch.euml | ch.igrave | ch.iacute | ch.icirc | ch.iuml | ch.eth | ch.ntilde | ch.ograve | ch.oacute | ch.ocirc | ch.otilde | ch.ouml | ch.divide | ch.oslash | ch.ugrave | ch.uacute | ch.ucirc | ch.uuml | ch.yacute | ch.thorn | ch.yuml | ch.ampersand | ch.lsquot | ch.rsquot | ch.ldquot | ch.rdquot | ch.minus | ch.endash | ch.emdash | ch.ellips | ch.lellips | ch.blankline | ch.percent | ch.thinspace | ch.frac116 | ch.plus">
-
-<!ENTITY % inline.content "#PCDATA | a | bookref | footref | em | strong | thought | foreign | quote | cite | code | line | br | typ | onomatopoeia | spell | item | %character.content;">
-
-<!ENTITY % block.content "p | ul | ol | dl | table | blockquote | illustration | combat | choice | signpost | hr | illref">
-
-<!ENTITY % core.attributes "
- class CDATA #IMPLIED
- xml:lang CDATA #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!ENTITY % link.attributes "
- idref IDREF #IMPLIED
- id ID #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!ENTITY % cell.align.attributes "
- align ( left | center | right | justify | char ) #IMPLIED
- char CDATA #IMPLIED
- valign ( top | middle | bottom | baseline ) #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!ENTITY % cell.scope.attributes "
- rowspan CDATA #IMPLIED
- colspan CDATA #IMPLIED
- axis CDATA #IMPLIED
- scope ( row | col | rowgroup | colgroup ) #IMPLIED
-">
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::: Character Entities ::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY lt "&#60;"><!-- left angle bracket -->
-<!ENTITY gt ">"> <!-- right angle bracket -->
-<!ENTITY amp "&#38;"><!-- ampersand -->
-<!ENTITY apos "'"> <!-- apostrophe = single quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY quot """> <!-- double quotation mark -->
-
-<!--
-
-It is the responsibility of the document to define relevant character
-entities in its internal subset. See also Character Elements below.
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Hierarchical Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-
-<!ELEMENT gamebook ( meta, section+ )>
-<!ATTLIST gamebook
- version CDATA #REQUIRED
- xml:lang CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "version" attribute represents the revision number of the gamebook
-DTD. This allows gamebook processors to make decisions about the
-suitability of the data.
-
-The "xml:lang" attribute specifies the primary language of the
-document. The data should conform to the IETF RFC1766.
-
- http://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc1766.txt
-
-Examples:
-
- <gamebook version="0.12" xml:lang="en-UK">
- <meta . . .> . . . </meta>
- <section . . .> . . . </section>
- . . .
- </gamebook>
-
- <gamebook version="0.12" > . . . </gamebook>
-
--->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::::: meta Element ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-<!--
-
-The children of the meta element are designed to directly translate to
-the Dublin Core Element Set v1.1. For a description of each Dublin
-Core element, visit the following URL:
-
- (http://dublincore.org/documents/1999/07/02/dces/)
-
-Although many Dublin Core elements will probably never have any real
-relevance to gamebooks, all are included for completeness's sake.
-
-[editor: add dc: namespace to isolate dublin core elements
- http://dublincore.org/documents/2001/10/26/dcmi-namespace/ ]
-
-Note: The "link" element doesn't correspond directly to any Dublin
-Core element. It has been added here for required functionality.
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT meta ( title | creator | subject | description | publisher | contributor | date | type | format | identifier | source | language | relation | coverage | rights | link)*>
-<!--
-
-The "meta" element represents underlying information about the
-document. It should contain any number of the Dublin Core 1.1
-elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <meta>
- <title . . .> . . . </title>
- <creator . . .> . . . </creator>
- . . .
- </meta>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT title ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST title
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT creator ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST creator
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT subject ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST subject
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT description ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST description
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT publisher ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST publisher
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT contributor ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST contributor
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT date ( year, month, day )>
-<!ATTLIST date
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "date" element has been extended beyond the specification made in
-the Dublin Core. It should contain "year", "month" and "day" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <date>
- <year . . .> . . . </year>
- <month . . .> . . . </month>
- <day . . .> . . . </day>
- </date>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT year ( #PCDATA )>
-<!--
-
-The year should be specified in full digit numeric format.
-
-Example:
-
- <year>2001</year>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT month ( #PCDATA )>
-<!--
-
-The month should be specified in numeric format with January as "1",
-February as "2", etc.
-
-Example:
-
- <month>4</month>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT day ( #PCDATA )>
-<!--
-
-The "day" element specifies the day of the month in numeric format.
-
-Example:
-
- <day>14</day>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT type ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST type
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT format ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST format
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT identifier ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST identifier
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT source ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST source
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT language ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST language
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT relation ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST relation
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT coverage ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST coverage
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT rights ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST rights
- %core.attributes;
->
-
-<!ELEMENT link EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST link
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
- idrefs IDREFS #IMPLIED>
-<!--
-
-The "link" element has been added to the Dublin Core elements to
-represent relationships to other parts of the document. The "idrefs"
-attribute has been added to allow relationships that are held with
-more than one part of the document.
-
-Examples:
-
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
-
- <link class="friends" idrefs="dedicate cmbtrulz" />
-
--->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: section Element ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT section ( meta, footnotes?, illustrations?, data )>
-<!ATTLIST section
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "section" element represents one hierarchical level of data.
-Section elements can be nested (inside the "data" element) in
-order to create more complex data representations.
-
-A "section" element can used as a linking element. The most useful way
-to utilize this is to make it a named anchor and thus the target of a
-"choice" element.
-
-Examples:
-
- <section>
- <meta><title . . .> . . . </title></meta>
- <data . . .> . . . </data>
- <footnotes . . .> . . . </footnotes>
- </section>
-
- <section id="title">
- <meta><title . . .> . . . </title></meta>
- <data . . .>
- . . .
- <section id="dedication">
- <meta><title . . .> . . . </title></meta>
- <data . . .> . . . </data>
- </section>
- . . .
- </data>
- </section>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT data ( %block.content; | section )*>
-<!ATTLIST data
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "data" element contains the main data contained within
-a section. Note that a nested section structure can be created by
-including a "section" element within the content of the "data"
-element.
-
-Examples:
-
- <data>
- <p . . .> . . . </p>
- <combat . . .> . . . </combat>
- . . .
- </data>
-
- <data>
- <section . . .> . . . </section>
- </data>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT illustrations ( illustration | illgroup )*>
-<!ATTLIST illustrations
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "illustrations" element represents a collection of illustrations.
-The illustrations, or illustration groups, should be listed in the
-order they appear in the book.
-
-Example:
-
- <illustrations>
- <illustration . . . />
- <illgroup . . .>. . .</illgroup>
- . . .
- </illustrations>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT illgroup ( illustration )*>
-<!ATTLIST illgroup
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-
-<!--
-
-The "illgroup" element represents a group of illustrations contained
-within one section. It is used when individual links to the each
-illustration from the illustrations index are not wanted.
-
-Example:
-
- <illgroup idref=". . .">
- <illustration . . . />
- <illustration . . . />
- . . .
- </illgroup>
-
- <illgroup idref=". . ." class="hidden">
- <illustration . . . />
- <illustration . . . />
- . . .
- </illgroup>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT footnotes ( footnote )*>
-<!ATTLIST footnotes
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "footnotes" element represents the collection of extra-textual
-information contained within "footnote" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <footnotes>
- <footnote . . .> . . . </footnote>
- <footnote . . .> . . . </footnote>
- . . .
- </footnotes>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT footnote ( %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST footnote
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "footnote" element contains extra-textual information. It can be
-used as a linking element and can thus be used to refer back to a
-named anchor within the document.
-
-Example:
-
- <data . . .>
- <p . . .>This paragraph requires an appropriate footnote
- <a id="reference" idref="footnote-reference" . . ./>.
- </p>
- . . .
- </data>
- <footnotes . . .>
- <footnote id="footnote-reference" idref="reference">
- <p . . .>This is the appropriate footnote.</p>
- </footnote>
- . . .
- </footnotes>
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Block Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::::::: Lists :::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT ul ( li )*>
-<!ATTLIST ul
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "ul" represents an unordered list.
-
-Example:
-
- <ul>
- <li . . .> . . . </li>
- <li . . .> . . . </li>
- . . .
- </ul>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT ol ( li )*>
-<!ATTLIST ol
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "ol" element represents an ordered list.
-
-Example:
-
- <ol>
- <li . . .> . . . First Item . . . </li>
- <li . . .> . . . Second Item . . . </li>
- . . .
- </ol>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT li ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST li
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "li" element is a generic list item used within both ordered and
-unordered lists (i.e. "ol" and "ul" elements).
-
-Examples:
-
- <ul . . .>
- . . .
- <li>list item</li>
- <li>another list item</li>
- . . .
- </ul>
-
- <ol . . .>
- <li>first list item</li>
- <li>second list item</li>
- . . .
- </ol>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT dl ( dt, dd? )*>
-<!ATTLIST dl
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "dl" element represents a list of terms and their definitions.
-
-Example:
-
- <dl>
- <dt . . .> . . . First Term . . . </dt>
- <dd . . .> . . . First Term's Definition . . . </dd>
- . . .
- <dt . . .> . . . Second Term . . . </dt>
- <dd . . .> . . . Second Term's Definition . . . </dd>
- <dt . . .> . . . Third Term with No Definition . . . </dt>
- </dl>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT dt ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST dt
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "dt" element represents a definition term within a definition
-list. It should be immediately followed by its definitions contained
-within "dd" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <dl . . .>
- . . .
- <dt>Definition Term</dt>
- <dd . . .> . . . Definition . . . </dd>
- . . .
- </dl>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT dd ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST dd
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "dd" element contains a definition.
-
-Example:
-
- <dt . . .> . . . Term to be defined . . . </dt>
- <dd>Definition of the term.</dd>
-
--->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::::::: Tables ::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT table ( caption?, colgroup*, thead?, tfoot?, ( tr+ | tbody+ ))>
-<!ATTLIST table
- summary CDATA #IMPLIED
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "table" element represents tabular data. It's data is organized
-within rows.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT caption ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST caption
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "caption" element contains a brief description of the data
-contained in the table and the structure of the table.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- <caption>Random Number Table</caption>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT colgroup EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST colgroup
- span CDATA #REQUIRED
->
-<!--
-
-The "colgroup" element explicitly groups several columns of tabular data
-together. The "span" attribute specifies the number of columns to be
-grouped. This is primarily useful for non-visual user agents.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- . . .
- <colgroup span="1"/>
- <colgroup span="13"/>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT thead ( tr+ )>
-<!ATTLIST thead
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "thead" element contains rows of data designated as the table
-header. It creates a rowgroup for the purposes of the "scope"
-attribute in the "th" and "td" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- . . .
- <thead>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- . . .
- </thead>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT tfoot ( tr+ )>
-<!ATTLIST tfoot
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "tfoot" element contains rows of data designated as the table
-footer. It creates a rowgroup for the purposes of the "scope"
-attribute in the "th" and "td" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- . . .
- <tfoot>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- . . .
- </tfoot>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT tbody ( tr+ )>
-<!ATTLIST tbody
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "tbody" element contains rows of data designated as the part
-of the main table data. More than one "tbody" element is allowed per
-"table" element. It creates a rowgroup for the purposes of the "scope"
-attribute in the "th" and "td" elements.
-
-Example:
-
- <table>
- . . .
- <tfoot>
- <tr . . .> . . . </tr>
- . . .
- </tfoot>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT tr ( th | td )*>
-<!ATTLIST tr
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "tr" element contains a collection of "th" and "td" elements that
-represent one row of a "table".
-
-Example:
-
- <table . . .>
- . . .
- <tr>
- <th . . .> . . . </th>
- <td . . .> . . . </td>
- . . .
- </tr>
- . . .
- </table>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT th ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST th
- %core.attributes;
- %cell.align.attributes;
- %cell.scope.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "th" contains a table header used to label a particular row or
-column of tabular data.
-
-The "scope" attribute specifies to what extent the data of this header
-applies. The "axis" attribute is a comma-separated list of categories
-to which the element belongs.
-
-Example:
-
- <tr . . .>
- . . .
- <th>Row Label</th>
- <td . . .> . . . </td>
- <td . . .> . . . </td>
- . . .
- </tr>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT td ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST td
- %core.attributes;
- %cell.align.attributes;
- %cell.scope.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "td" element contains one cell of tabular data.
-
-The "scope" attribute may be used in conjunction with a "td" element to
-specify that though its data isn't considered header data, it functions
-as a label for the data. For example, a character's name is a label for a row
-of the character's statistics, but it is not a header.
-
-Example:
-
- <tr . . .>
- . . .
- <td>Cell data</td>
- . . .
- </tr>
-
--->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::::::: Miscellaneous :::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ELEMENT p ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST p
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "p" element contains a paragraph.
-
-Example:
-
- <p>This is a (short) paragraph.</p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT blockquote ( %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST blockquote
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "blockquote" element contains a lengthy quotation which isn't
-contained within a paragraph.
-
-Example:
-
- <blockquote>
- <p>There was once a Kai monk from Sommerlund . . .</p>
- </blockquote>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT combat ( enemy, enemy-attribute+ )>
-<!ATTLIST combat
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "combat" element contains one combat represented by the enemy's
-name and attributes.
-
-Example:
-
- <combat>
- <enemy . . .> . . . </enemy>
- <enemy-attribute . . .> . . . </enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute . . .> . . . </enemy-attribute>
- . . .
- </combat>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT enemy ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST enemy
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "enemy" element contains an enemy's name.
-
-Example:
-
- <combat . . .>
- . . .
- <enemy>12-foot Giak</enemy>
- . . .
- </combat>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT enemy-attribute ( #PCDATA )*>
-<!ATTLIST enemy-attribute
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "enemy-attribute" element contains one particular attribute which
-describes an enemy.
-
-Example:
-
- <combat . . .>
- . . .
- <enemy-attribute>30</enemy-attribute>
- . . .
- </combat>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT choice ( %inline.content; | link-text )*>
-<!ATTLIST choice
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "choice" element contains the text describing a choice presented
-within a section. It's a linking element and therefore can link to
-the place to which the choice leads.
-
-The choice element can contain "link-text" elements which suggest text
-that should be used by the user agent to represent the hyperlink.
-
-Example:
-
- <section id="section12" . . .> . . . </section>
- . . .
- <choice idref="section12">If you would like to fight the 12-foot Giak,
- <link-text . . .> . . . turn to 12. . . . </link-text>
- </choice>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT link-text ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST link-text
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "link-text" element contains text which is suggested for use by
-hypertext user interfaces to represent one end of a hyperlink.
-
-Example:
-
- <choice . . .>
- . . .
- <link-text>the unfortunately ubiquitous "Click Here!"</link-text>
- . . .
- </choice>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT illustration ( meta?, instance+ )>
-<!ATTLIST illustration
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-
-<!--
-
-The "illustration" element contains a set of alternate
-representations of a particular illustration.
-
-Example:
-
- <illustration>
- <meta> . . . </meta>
- <instance . . .> . . . </instance>
- <instance . . .> . . . </instance>
- . . .
- </illustration>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT instance ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST instance
- %core.attributes;
- src CDATA #IMPLIED
- width CDATA #IMPLIED
- height CDATA #IMPLIED
- mime-type CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "instance" element describes one instance of an illustration.
-
-The "src" attribute is a URL for the data file for the illustration.
-
-The "width" and "height" attributes contain the dimensions of the
-illustration.
-
-The "mime-type" attribute can contain an appropriate label for the
-format of the illustration file (e.g. "image/png" or "image/jpeg").
-
-The "instance" element can contain block or inline content that
-is intended to replace graphical illustrations.
-
-Example:
-
- <illustration . . .>
- . . .
- <instance src="17.gif" width="386" height="532" type="image/gif" />
- <instance src="" width="" height="" type="text" >
- [content here]
- </instance>
- . . .
- </illustration>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT illref EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST illref
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-
-<!--
-
-The "illref" element is used to mark the location of an illustration.
-The actual illustration is declared elsewhere.
-
-Since the placement of a particular illustration may depend on the
-output format, one "illref" is required for each format.
-
-Example:
-
- <illref idref="ill2" class="html"/>
- <illref idref="ill2" class="pdf"/>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT signpost ( %inline.content; | %block.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST signpost
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "signpost" element contains the text of a sign or message that
-should be presented offset from surrounding text.
-
-Example:
-
- <signpost>RENDALIM'S LABORATORY</signpost>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT hr EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST hr
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "hr" element designates a horizontal rule. Since this is a
-presentational tag, it should be used sparingly in cases where new
-logical divisions of the text begin which aren't given a unique
-title.
-
-Example:
-
- <hr />
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Inline Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!ELEMENT a ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST a
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
- href CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "a" element is used to contain inline content that should be a
-hypertext anchor. The "a" element should not contain another linking
-element (e.g. "a", "bookref", "footref").
-
-The "href" attribute is added to allow a reference outside of the
-document itself.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <a idref="section12" id="foo">Section 12</a>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT bookref ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST bookref
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
- series CDATA #IMPLIED
- book CDATA #REQUIRED
- section CDATA #IMPLIED
->
-<!--
-
-The "bookref" element is used to contain inline content that should be a
-hypertext anchor to another book.
-
-The "series" attribute is a tag that denotes the series of the book that
-the link points to. The attribute may be left out if the book is part of
-the same series as the one containing the link.
-
-The "book" attribute is a tag that denotes the book that the link points
-to. This is not necessarily a URL.
-
-The "section" attribute is a tag indicating which section to link to.
-This is not necessarily a URL. The attribute may be left out if no
-particular section is referred to.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <bookref series="lw" book="11tpot" section="sect33">
- The Prisoners of Time: Section 33
- </bookref>
- . . .
- </p>
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <bookref book="04wotw">Book 4</bookref>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT footref ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST footref
- %core.attributes;
- %link.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "footref" element is used to indicate the position of a reference
-to a "footnote" element. It should normally not contain any text.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- You lose 3EP.<footref id="footref1" idref="footnote1"/>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT em ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST em
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "em" element contains text that should be emphasized. Although not
-part of the DTD and therefore not guaranteed or required to be so, the
-text should be typeset with an italic font.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <em>You are being attacked!</em>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT strong ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST strong
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "strong" element contains text that should be emphasized. Although
-not part of the DTD and therefore not guaranteed or required to be so,
-the text should be typeset with a bold font weight.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <strong>If</strong> you have the Talisman of Supreme Obscurity,
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT thought ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST thought
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "thought" element contains text that is the character's thoughts or is
-an overheard thought. Although not part of the DTD and therefore not
-guaranteed or required to be so, the text should be typeset with an italic
-font face.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- Lone Wolf heard the words <thought>Die Northlander!</strong> echo in
- his mind,
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT foreign ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST foreign
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "foreign" element contains a phrase in a non-native language.
-Although not part of the DTD and therefore not guaranteed or required
-to be so, the text should be typeset with an italic font face.
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- The Giak horde attacked <foreign>en masse</foreign>.
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT quote ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST quote
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "quote" element contains an inline quotation.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>The Giak yelped <quote . . .>Oww!</quote></p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT cite ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST cite
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "cite" element contains the title of a sited resource.
-
-Example:
-
- <p . . .>
- . . .
- <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>
- . . .
- </p>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT code ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST code
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "code" element contains data that should be interpreted as literal
-input to a computer (e.g. email addresses and URIs).
-
-Example:
-
- <code>http://www.projectaon.org/</code>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT line ( %inline.content; )*>
-<!ATTLIST line
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "line" element contains one logical line of data in, for example,
-a poem. Its use should be confined to documents such as poems that
-require a particular line structure.
-
-Example:
-
- <line>When the full moon rises o'er the temple deep,</line>
- <line>A sacrifice will stir from sleep</line>
- <line>The legions of a long forgotten lord.</line>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT br EMPTY>
-<!ATTLIST br
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "br" indicates a required line break. Its use is deprecated in favor
-of the "line" element.
-
-Example:
-
- <blockquote . . .>
- . . .
- There once was a Kai monk from Sommerlund<br />
- Who always wore a pink cummerbund<br />
- . . .
- </blockquote>
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT typ ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST typ
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "typ" element is used to denote purely typographical markup. For
-example, bold font face, italics, and smaller font are purely of
-typographical concern. Take care to not use this in place of logical
-markup such as the "em" element when it is more appropriate.
-
-Example:
-
-The <typ class="bold">Project Aon</a> volunteers.
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT onomatopoeia ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST onomatopoeia
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "onomatopoeia" element is used to denote words that imitate a
-sound (e.g., "whoosh", "bang").
-
-Example:
-
-The <onomatopoeia>clang</onomatopoeia> of the bell is deafening.
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT spell ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST spell
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "spell" element contains the name of a magic spell.
-
-Example:
-
-Having had no success with his female peers, the acolyte learned the
-forbidden <spell>Attract Opposite Gender</spell> spell.
-
--->
-
-<!ELEMENT item ( #PCDATA )>
-<!ATTLIST item
- %core.attributes;
->
-<!--
-
-The "item" element contains the name of an item that the reader can
-pick up or interact with.
-
-Example:
-
-Her <item>Sword</a> lay just out of reach.
-
--->
-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Character Elements -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-The character elments provide a hook to specify a character without
-specifying the exact representation in target formats. The exact
-representation used is the responsibility of the processor (e.g XSLT
-stylesheet.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.apos EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.apos %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.nbsp EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.nbsp %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- inverted exclamation mark, U+00A1 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.iexcl EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.iexcl %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- cent sign, U+00A2 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.cent EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.cent %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.pound EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.pound %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.curren EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.curren %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.yen EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.yen %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.brvbar EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.brvbar %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sect EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sect %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.uml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.uml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.copy EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.copy %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ordf EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ordf %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.laquo EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.laquo %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.not EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.not %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.shy EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.shy %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.reg EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.reg %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.macr EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.macr %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.deg EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.deg %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.plusmn EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.plusmn %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sup2 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sup2 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sup3 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sup3 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.acute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.acute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.micro EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.micro %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.para EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.para %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.middot EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.middot %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.cedil EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.cedil %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.sup1 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.sup1 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ordm EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ordm %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.raquo EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.raquo %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac14 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac14 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac12 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac12 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.frac34 EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.frac34 %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.iquest EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.iquest %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Agrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Agrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Aacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Aacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Acirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Acirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Atilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Atilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Auml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Auml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Aring EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Aring %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.AElig EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.AElig %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ccedil EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ccedil %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Egrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Egrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Eacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Eacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ecirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ecirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Euml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Euml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Igrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Igrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Iacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Iacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Icirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Icirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Iuml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Iuml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ETH EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ETH %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ntilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ntilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ograve EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ograve %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Oacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Oacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ocirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ocirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Otilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Otilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ouml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ouml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.times EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.times %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Oslash EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Oslash %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ugrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ugrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Uacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Uacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Ucirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Ucirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Uuml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Uuml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.Yacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.Yacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.THORN EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.THORN %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.szlig EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.szlig %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.agrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.agrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.aacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.aacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.acirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.acirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.atilde EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.atilde %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.auml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.auml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.aring EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.aring %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.aelig EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.aelig %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ccedil EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ccedil %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.egrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.egrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.eacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.eacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.ecirc EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.ecirc %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.euml EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.euml %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.igrave EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.igrave %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<!ELEMENT ch.iacute EMPTY><!ATTLIST ch.iacute %core.attributes;>
-
-<!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
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-
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- Appendices -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::: Valid Gamebook Document Example :::::::::::::: -->
-<!--
-This document is not intended to document current practice in Project
-Aon. It is merely here to demonstrate the concepts of the Gamebook
-DTD. For current practice, please refer to published XML files.
--->
-
-<!--
-
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd">
-
-<gamebook version="0.12" xml:lang="en-UK">
-
-<meta>
- <title>Flight from the Dark</title>
- <creator>Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date><year>2001</year><month>10</month><day>24</day></date>
- <rights>Copyright <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="section1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>You must make haste for you sense it is not safe to linger by the smoking remains of the ruined monastery. The black-winged beasts could return at any moment. You must set out for the Sommerlund capital of Holmgard and tell the King the terrible news of the massacre: that the whole <ch.eacute/>lite of Kai warriors, save yourself, have been slaughtered. Without the Kai Lords to lead her armies, Sommerlund will be at the mercy of their ancient enemy, the Darklords.</p>
- <p>Fighting back tears, you bid farewell to your dead kinsmen. Silently, you promise that their deaths will be avenged. You turn away from the ruins and carefully descend the steep track.</p>
- <p>At the foot of the hill, the path splits into two directions, both leading into a large wood.</p>
-
- <choice idref="section85">If you wish to take the right path into the wood, <link-text>turn to 85</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section275">If you wish to follow the left track, <link-text>turn to 275</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section141">If you wish to use your Kai Discipline of Sixth Sense, <link-text>turn to 141</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- <footnotes>
- <footnote><p>Later books use <quote>Sommlending</quote> as the possessive adjective for Sommerlund, contrary to the use of the word <quote>Sommerlund</quote> in the third sentence. This is probably not a typo, but a reflection of Joe Dever<ch.apos/>s later expansion of the vocabulary of Magnamund.</p></footnote>
- </footnotes>
-</section>
-
-<section id="section17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>You raise your weapon to strike at the beast as its razor-fanged mouth snaps shut just inches from your head. Buffeted by the beating of its wings you find it difficult to stand.</p>
-
- <illustration>
- <instance src="1.gif" width="386" height="532" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
-
- <p>Deduct 1 point from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> and fight the Kraan.</p>
-
- <combat>
- <enemy>Kraan:</enemy>
- <enemy-attribute>16</enemy-attribute>
- <enemy-attribute>24</enemy-attribute>
- </combat>
-
- <p>If you kill the creature, you quickly descend the far side of the hill to avoid the Giaks.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the Random Number Table.</p>
-
- <choice idref="section53">If you pick 0, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section274">If you pick 1<ch.endash/>2, <link-text>turn to 274</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="section316">If you pick 3<ch.endash/>9, <link-text>turn to 316</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
-</section>
-
-<section id="section53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
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- <meta><title>85</title></meta>
- <data />
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-
-<section id="section141">
- <meta><title>141</title></meta>
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-
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- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section275">
- <meta><title>275</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="section316">
- <meta><title>316</title></meta>
- <data />
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
-
--->
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Gary Chalk</strong>, the illustrator of the early Lone Wolf series, was born in 1952, grew up in Hertfordshire, England. Being interested in history, he began playing war games at the age of fifteen. When he graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in design, Gary spent three years training in a studio before becoming a teacher in art and design.</p>
- <p>Gary was working as a children's book illustrator when he became involved in adventure gaming, an interest which eventually led to the creation of several successful games. He is the inventor/illustrator of some of Britain's biggest-selling fantasy games including Cry Havoc, Starship Captain and Battlecars (co-designed with Ian Livingstone). He is also known for his work on the very successful game, Talisman.</p>
- <p>Gary was working at Games Workshop when Joe Dever asked him to illustrate some of his manuscript of Flight from the Dark. The two teamed up after that and, they continued to work together until the eighth book in the series, <cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>.</p>
- <p>Gary has also drawn the illustrations in <cite>Redwall</cite> and related books, <cite>The Prince of Shadows</cite> gamebook series, and several books which he also authored. Gary continues to enjoy war gaming and works as an illustrator and model maker. He maintains a <a href="&link.gary.chalk.website;">website</a> with examples of his work.</p>
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
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+++ /dev/null
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+++ /dev/null
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-These entities define link URLs between books when using XHTML. Note
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- <p><strong>Ian Page</strong> was born in London in 1960. Since the age of sixteen he has pursued a successful career as a singer/songwriter. With the band Secret Affair, he had a string of chart hits to his credit including <cite>Time for Action</cite> and <cite>My World</cite>. His interest in the fantastic worlds of <quote>Sword and Sorcery</quote> dates back to his early teens, and to his love of the novels of J.R.R. Tolkien and Michael Moorcock. It was in 1979, when Joe Dever introduced him to role-playing games, that his involvement in the world of Magnamund began. He contributed greatly to the development of the southern reaches of this fantastic world, and worked closely with Joe on several other role-playing games projects that include TV and radio appearances.</p>
- <p>Ian has since re-entered the music industry with a band known as <a href="&link.the.affair.website;">The Affair</a>.</p>
+++ /dev/null
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- <title>JC Alvarez's Illustrations</title>
- <creator class="short">JC Alvarez</creator>
- <creator class="medium">JC Alvarez</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p>JC Alvarez created these illustrations in an early period of Project Aon's history before Gary Chalk had given his consent to use his illustrations. They were used in the Project Aon editions of <cite><a href="&link.01fftd;">Flight from the Dark</a></cite> and <cite><a href="&link.02fotw;">Fire on the Water</a></cite>, but their use was eventually discontinued. They are published here for your continued and enjoyment.</p>
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- <date class="publication"><year>2004</year><month>5</month><day>14</day></date>
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- <p>Published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>.</p>
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- <p>We would like to thank JC Alvarez for creating these illustrations even though we did not use them in the end for the Project Aon editions.</p>
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+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels and the Freeway Warrior adventure books, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels and editor for the World of Lone Wolf series, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields&emdash;as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons &ersand; Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons &ersand; Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>&emdash;the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson's (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
- <p>This first book sold more than 100,000 copies within its first month of publication, and overseas rights were snapped up by twelve countries (including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, Italy and Sweden). The success of Joe's first book laid the foundations for the future of the Lone Wolf series, which has sold millions of copies around the world.</p>
- <p>Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Joe Dever</strong>, the creator of the bestselling Lone Wolf adventure books and novels, has achieved world-wide recognition in three creative fields<ch.emdash/>as an award-winning author of international renown, as an acclaimed musician and composer, and as a games designer specialising in role-playing games.</p>
- <p>On graduating from college in 1974, Joe Dever became a professional musician, and for several years, he worked in the music industry in Europe and the United States.</p>
- <p>While working in Los Angeles in 1977 he discovered a then little-known game called <quote>Dungeons <ch.ampersand/> Dragons</quote>. Although the game was in its infancy, Joe at once realised its huge potential and began designing his own role-playing games along similar conceptual lines. These first games were to form the basis of a fantasy world called Magnamund, which later became the setting for the Lone Wolf books.</p>
- <p>Five years later, in 1982, Joe won the Advanced Dungeons <ch.ampersand/> Dragons World Championships in Baltimore, an event held before 16,000 people. Inspired and encouraged by his success at Origins, Joe decided to quit the music business and devote his time to writing and games design.</p>
- <p>In 1983, after a brief spell at Games Workshop in London, he wrote <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite><ch.emdash/>the first Lone Wolf interactive gamebook. His manuscript immediately attracted a frenzy of interest from three major London publishing companies, all of whom bid for world rights. Joe accepted an offer of publication from Hutchinson<ch.apos/>s (later to become Century Hutchinson Ltd; now Random House UK) and <cite>Flight from the Dark</cite> was first published in 1984.</p>
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- <p>The Lone Wolf series ended after 28 books and 14 years. Joe has continued to work in the games industry as script writer and games design consultant.</p>
+++ /dev/null
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- <xsl:text>November</xsl:text>
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- <xsl:text>December</xsl:text>
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- <xsl:text>
-
- </xsl:text>
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- <xsl:text>
-
- \vspace*{\stretch{3}}
-
- \pagestyle{empty}
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-\clearpage{\pagestyle{empty}\cleardoublepage}
-
- \vspace*{\stretch{1}}
-
- \thispagestyle{empty}
- </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='blurb']" />
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- <xsl:text>
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- \vspace*{\stretch{3}}
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-\clearpage{\pagestyle{empty}\cleardoublepage}
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-<xsl:text>
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-\end{backmatter}
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-<xsl:template match="section" />
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-</xsl:template>
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-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
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-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
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- <xsl:apply-templates />
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-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level main matter sections :::::::::::::: -->
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-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
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-</xsl:template>
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-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level backmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
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- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fourth-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
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-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
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-<!-- :::::::::::::::::: dedication template ::::::::::::::::::::: -->
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-
- <xsl:text>\vspace*{\stretch{1}}</xsl:text>
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-
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- <xsl:text>{\bfseries </xsl:text><xsl:apply-templates /><xsl:text>}\\*\\*</xsl:text>
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+++ /dev/null
- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Project Aon License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>30 June 2006</p>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Rob Adams, Paul Bonner, Gary Chalk, Melvyn Grant, Richard Hook, Peter Andrew Jones, Cyril Julien, Peter Lyon, Peter Parr, Graham Round, and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for these books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, grant rights to their readers, and preserve the quality of the books distributed in this way.</p>
- <p>By viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
- <p>Anyone who wishes to simply view or download the Internet Editions for their own personal use need not worry about running afoul of the terms of this License. These activities are within acceptable behaviour as defined by this License.</p>
- <p>This section does not contain the legally binding terms of this license. Please read the precise terms and conditions of this license that follow.</p>
- <p>The current version of this license can be found at the following URL:</p>
- <blockquote><p><a href="&link.license;">&link.license;</a></p></blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1">
- <meta><title>1. Definitions</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-0">
- <meta><title>1.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-1">
- <meta><title>1.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever, Ian Page, and Gary Chalk, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where Joe Dever, Ian Page, or Gary Chalk is mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-2">
- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrators</quote> shall hereafter refer to Rob Adams, copyright holder of portions of <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Paul Bonner, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of the World of Lone Wolf books; Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, holder of the copyrights of portions of <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>, and holder of the copyrights for <cite>The Lone Wolf Poster Painting Book</cite>; Melvyn Grant, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of <cite>Freeway Warrior 1: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Richard Hook, copyright holder of portions of <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Peter Andrew Jones, copyright holder for the illustrations used in the <cite>Lone Wolf 10th Anniversary Calendar</cite>; Cyril Julien, copyright holder of portions of <cite>The Skull of Agarash</cite>; Peter Lyon, copyright holder of portions of <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Peter Parr, copyright holder of the illustrations of <cite>Black Baron</cite> and <cite>White Warlord</cite>, <cite>Emerald Enchanter</cite> and <cite>Scarlet Sorcerer</cite>; Graham Round, copyright holder of portions of <cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite>, holder of the copyrights of portions of <cite>The Skull of Agarash</cite>, and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four, counted inclusively, of the Freeway Warrior series. Where Paul Bonner, Gary Chalk, Melvyn Grant, Richard Hook, Peter Andrew Jones, Cyril Julien, Peter Lyon, Peter Parr Graham Round, or Brian Williams is mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-3">
- <meta><title>1.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (The term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-4">
- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1991 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Voyage of the Moonstone</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight<ch.apos/>s Hero</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1997 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1997 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1998 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1998 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior 1: Highway Holocaust</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior 2: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior 3: The Omega Zone</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior 4: California Countdown</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Black Baron</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>White Warlord</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Emerald Enchanter</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Scarlet Sorcerer</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Rob Adams for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>;<br/>Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Rob Adams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Paul Bonner for the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1985 Paul Bonner.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Paul Bonner.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Paul Bonner.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Paul Bonner.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk for the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>;<br/>Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Lone Wolf Poster Painting Book</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1987 Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The text written by Gary Chalk for the following book is being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Lone Wolf Poster Painting Book</cite>;<br/><ch.copy/> 1987 Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Melvyn Grant for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior 1: Highway Holocaust</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1988 Melvyn Grant.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Richard Hook for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>;<br/>Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Richard Hook.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Peter Andrew Jones for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Lone Wolf 10th Anniversary Calendar</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1994 Peter Andrew Jones.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Cyril Julien for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Skull of Agarash</cite>;<br/>Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1994 Cyril Julien.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Peter Lyon for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>;<br/>Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Peter Lyon.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Peter Parr for the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>Black Baron</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Peter Parr.</li>
- <li><cite>White Warlord</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Peter Parr.</li>
- <li><cite>Emerald Enchanter</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Peter Parr.</li>
- <li><cite>Scarlet Sorcerer</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Peter Parr.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Graham Round for the following book are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>;<br/>Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1986 Graham Round.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams for the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf<ch.apos/>s Bane</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight<ch.apos/>s Hero</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Skull of Agarash</cite>;<br />Some illustrations <ch.copy/> 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>;<br/>Illustrations <ch.copy/> 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>The works distributed under the collective title <cite>Lone Wolf Club Newsletters</cite><ch.emdash/>which are composed of, in part, portions of the above named works<ch.emdash/>will also be distributed under the terms of this License.</p>
-
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall not refer to any other works by the Authors, nor any other illustrations by the Illustrators unless the Authors or Illustrators amend this License. <quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall refer solely to the text and illustrations of the above works when made available through the Internet.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-5">
- <meta><title>1.5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereafter refer to any person or electronic agent who receives some portion or all of the Internet Editions. The <quote>Licensee</quote> shall hereinafter be referred to as <quote>Licensee</quote> or <quote>you</quote>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-6">
- <meta><title>1.6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Distribution Point</quote> shall hereafter refer to the specific Internet site or sites to which the Authors and Illustrators have granted rights to distribute the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-1-7">
- <meta><title>1.7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p><quote>Maintainer</quote> shall hereafter refer to the person or persons who are responsible for the maintenance of the Distribution Point.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2">
- <meta><title>2. Terms of Distribution</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-0">
- <meta><title>2.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The terms of this License are limited to the distribution of the Internet Editions. No other form of distribution is covered under the terms of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-1">
- <meta><title>2.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators grant you the right to receive a copy or copies of the Internet Editions from the Distribution Point at no charge provided that you agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License. If you do not agree to all of the terms and obligations of this License, you are not granted any rights by this License.</p>
- <p>You agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License by the act of receiving or viewing a copy of any portion of the Internet Editions even though you have not signed a written document. Indeed, you have no right to receive or view a copy or copies without first accepting this License as legally valid and binding and agreeing to the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-2">
- <meta><title>2.2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You agree to refrain from redistributing the Internet Editions in any form, electronic or otherwise, to any other person or persons for any reason by any means. You are granted the right to receive a copy or copies only for your own personal use.</p>
- <p>This License does not collectively grant any rights to corporations or groups of individuals when regarded as one legal entity. This License exclusively grants rights to private individuals.</p>
- <p>Redistribution includes but is not limited to displaying the Internet Editions within the graphical representation of an Internet site other than the Distribution Point. This prohibition includes but is not limited to the use of HTML <quote>frames</quote>.</p>
- <p>An exception to the restrictions on redistribution in this section is made in that you may send the Internet Editions or derivative works thereof to the Distribution Point by the consent of the Maintainer.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-4">
- <meta><title>2.3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and Illustrators retain all other rights to their respective portions of the Internet Editions not covered by this License. The Authors or Illustrators may, at any time, without notice and without need to show due cause, revoke the rights granted to you by this License to their respective portions of the Internet Editions.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-2-5">
- <meta><title>2.4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If a person is under the legal age to be able to enter into a contractual relationship as defined by the laws of the area in which that person resides, they may have a parent or legal guardian agree to be bound by the terms and obligations of this License. On condition of agreeing to be bound by the terms of the License, that same parent or legal guardian may thereafter give a copy or copies of the Internet Editions to that child. That parent or legal guardian is thereafter legally responsible to ensure that that child behaves in accordance with all of the terms and obligations of this License.</p>
- <p>The authority of a parent or legal guardian to distribute the Internet Editions does not extend to the distribution of the Internet Editions to any other person or persons except his or her child or legal dependent.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3">
- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-1">
- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors<ch.apos/> or Illustrators<ch.apos/> work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
+++ /dev/null
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!-- LaTeX Characters Module v0.1 -->
-<!-- ============================================================= -->
-<!--
-
-This module defines the mapping between the character entities used in
-the Project Aon instances of Gamebook XML and the ISO-8859-1
-characters. It is targeted at LaTeX as the output encoding.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<!ENTITY nbsp "~"><!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY iexcl "!`"><!-- inverted exclamation mark, U+00A1 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY cent "?"><!-- cent sign, U+00A2 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY pound "\pounds "><!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY curren "?"><!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY yen "?"><!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY brvbar "|"><!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sect "\S "><!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY uml "\"{ }"><!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY copy "\copyright "><!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordf "?"><!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY laquo "?"><!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY not "\not "><!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY shy "\-"><!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY reg "?"><!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY macr "\={ }"><!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY deg "?"><!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY plusmn "?"><!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup2 "?"><!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY sup3 "?"><!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY acute "\'{ }"><!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY micro "?"><!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY para "\P"><!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY middot "?"><!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY cedil "\c{ }"><!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<!ENTITY sup1 "?"><!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY ordm "?"><!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY raquo "?"><!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac14 "?"><!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac12 "?"><!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY frac34 "?"><!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY iquest "?`"><!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Agrave "\`{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aacute "\'{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Acirc "\^{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Atilde "\~{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Auml "\"{A}"><!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Aring "\AA"><!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY AElig "\AE"><!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ccedil "\c{C}"><!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Egrave "\`{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Eacute "\'{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ecirc "\^{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Euml "\"{E}"><!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Igrave "\`{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iacute "\'{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Icirc "\^{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Iuml "\"{I}"><!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ETH "?"><!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ntilde "\~{N}"><!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ograve "\`{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Oacute "\'{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ocirc "\^{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Otilde "\~{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ouml "\"{O}"><!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY times "?"><!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY Oslash "\O"><!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ugrave "\`{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uacute "\'{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Ucirc "\^{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Uuml "\"{U}"><!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY Yacute "\'{Y}"><!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY THORN "?"><!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY szlig "\ss"><!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY agrave "\`{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aacute "\'{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY acirc "\^{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY atilde "\~{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY auml "\"{a}"><!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aring "\aa"><!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY aelig "\ae"><!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ccedil "\c{c}"><!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY egrave "\`{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eacute "\'{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ecirc "\^{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY euml "\"{e}"><!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY igrave "\`{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iacute "\'{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY icirc "\^{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY iuml "\"{\i}"><!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY eth "ð"><!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ntilde "\~{n}"><!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ograve "\`{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY oacute "\'{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ocirc "\^{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY otilde "\~{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ouml "\"{o}"><!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY divide "?"><!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
-<!ENTITY oslash "\o"><!-- latin small letter o with stroke, = latin small letter o slash, U+00F8 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ugrave "\`{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uacute "\'{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY ucirc "\^{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY uuml "\"{u}"><!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yacute "\'{y}"><!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY thorn "?"><!-- latin small letter thorn, U+00FE ISOlat1 -->
-<!ENTITY yuml "\"{y}"><!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: Special Characters :::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<!ENTITY ampersand "\&"><!-- ampersand -->
-<!ENTITY lsquot "`"><!-- opening left quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rsquot "'"><!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY ldquot "``"><!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY rdquot "''"><!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<!ENTITY minus "-"><!-- mathematical minus -->
-<!ENTITY endash "-"><!-- endash -->
-<!ENTITY emdash "--"><!-- emdash -->
-<!ENTITY ellips "~\ldots "><!-- ellipsis -->
-<!ENTITY lellips "\ldots ~"><!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
-<!ENTITY blankline "\_\_\_\_\_\_\_"><!-- blank line to be filled in -->
-<!ENTITY percent "\%"><!-- percent sign -->
-<!ENTITY thinspace "\,"><!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks -->
+++ /dev/null
-<p><strong>Melvyn Grant</strong> is the illustrator of the first book in the Freeway Warrior series of gamebooks... TODO</p>
-<p>Melvyn maintains a <a href="&link.melvyn.grant.website;">website</a> showcasing his art.</p>
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0" encoding="ISO-8859-1"?>
-<!DOCTYPE gamebook SYSTEM "gamebook.dtd" [
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.characters SYSTEM "htmlchar.mod">
- <!ENTITY % latex.characters SYSTEM "ltexchar.mod">
- %xhtml.characters;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.links SYSTEM "genlink.mod">
- %general.links;
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.links SYSTEM "htmllink.mod">
- %xhtml.links;
-
- <!ENTITY % general.inclusions SYSTEM "geninc.mod">
- %general.inclusions;
-]>
-
-<gamebook xml:lang="en-UK" version="0.11">
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/10 06:37:11 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Michael Hahn's Maps</title>
- <creator class="short">Michael Hahn</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Michael Hahn</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p>Michael Hahn created these maps in an early period of Project Aon's history before Gary Chalk had given his consent to use his illustrations. They were used in the Project Aon editions, but their use was eventually discontinued. They are published here for your continued use and enjoyment.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2004</year><month>5</month><day>12</day></date>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Maps copyright © 2000&endash;2002 Michael Hahn.<br />Web publication copyright © 2004 Project Aon Team.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Maps copyright © 2000&endash;2002 Michael Hahn.<br />Web publication copyright © 2004 Project Aon Team.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="maps" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>We would like to thank Michael Hahn for creating these maps even though we did not use them in the end for the Project Aon editions.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Map Illustrations</dt>
- <dd>Michael Hahn</dd>
- <dt>XML</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake</dd>
- </dl>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="maps">
- <meta>
- <title>Maps</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>Map of the Lastlands</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="01fftd.gif" width="998" height="766" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>The Icy Wastes of Kalte</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="03tcok.gif" width="946" height="752" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>Southern Sommerlund</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="04tcod.gif" width="798" height="633" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>The Empire of Vassagonia</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="05sots.gif" width="992" height="762" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>The Stornlands</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="06tkot.gif" width="1016" height="715" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>The Magiocracy of Dessi</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="07cd.gif" width="739" height="539" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- <illustration class="float">
- <meta>
- <creator>Michael Hahn</creator>
- <description>The Danarg Swamp</description>
- </meta>
- <instance src="08tjoh.gif" width="629" height="561" class="html" />
- </illustration>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- &inclusion.project.aon.license;
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
- <p><strong>Paul Bonner</strong> is the illustrator of the World of Lone Wolf series of gamebooks. His childhood love of <quote>folk-tales, fairy-stories, <cite>The Hobbit</cite>, Scandanavian tales, myths, and sagas</quote> led Paul Bonner to spend four years at Harrow, a London art school, on an illustrating course of study.</p>
- <p>His artwork for the <cite>World of Lone Wolf</cite> series is among his earliest professional work. He subsequently started freelancing for Games Workshop and later accepted a full-time position. He worked there for a few years before moving on to produce full-colour artwork (which Games Workshop had not required from him). He moved to Copenhagen, Denmark and again began to work as a freelance illustrator.</p>
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0"?>
-<!DOCTYPE xsl:transform [
- <!ENTITY % pml.characters SYSTEM "pmlchar.mod">
- %pml.characters;
-]>
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.2 2005/04/09 19:51:50 angantyr
-Added handling of open-ended quotes.
-
-Revision 1.1 2005/01/30 01:32:52 jonathan.blake
-Initial freepository revision of XML support documents.
-
-Revision 1.2 2003/01/07 16:55:28 jblake
-Restarted work from base xhtml.xsl.
-
-
--->
-
-<xsl:transform version="1.0"
- xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"
- xmlns:xsl="http://www.w3.org/1999/XSL/Transform"
- xmlns:lxslt="http://xml.apache.org/xslt">
-
-<xsl:output method="text" encoding="ISO-8859-1" />
-
-<xsl:strip-space elements="gamebook section meta data ol ul dl li dd footnotes footnote illustration instance" />
-<xsl:preserve-space elements="p choice" />
-
-<!-- ====================== parameters ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:param name="use-illustrators" />
-
-<!-- ======================= variables ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:variable name="newline">
-<xsl:text>
-</xsl:text>
-</xsl:variable>
-
-<xsl:variable name="newparagraph">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:variable>
-
-<xsl:variable name="newpage">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\p</xsl:text>
-</xsl:variable>
-
-<!-- ======================== Templates ========================= -->
-
-<!-- ================= hierarchical sections ==================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="meta" />
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::: top-level section :::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section[@id='title']">
- <xsl:text>\vTITLE="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/title" /><xsl:text>"\v</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:text>\X0\l\B</xsl:text>
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/title" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:text>\B\l\X0</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/creator[@class='medium']" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='license-notification']" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- <xsl:text>Publication Date: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/day" />
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 1">
- <xsl:text>January</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 2">
- <xsl:text>February</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 3">
- <xsl:text>March</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 4">
- <xsl:text>April</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 5">
- <xsl:text>May</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 6">
- <xsl:text>June</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 7">
- <xsl:text>July</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 8">
- <xsl:text>August</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 9">
- <xsl:text>September</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 10">
- <xsl:text>October</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 11">
- <xsl:text>November</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 12">
- <xsl:text>December</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Invalid Month</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/year" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='publication']" />
-
- <xsl:if test="data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="data/section[@class='frontmatter']" />
- </xsl:if>
-
- <xsl:if test="data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="data/section[@class='mainmatter']" />
- </xsl:if>
-
- <xsl:if test="data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="data/section[@class='numbered']" />
- </xsl:if>
-
- <xsl:if test="data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="data/section[@class='backmatter']" />
- </xsl:if>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="//footnote">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- <xsl:text><footnote id="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"></xsl:text>
- <xsl:text>[</xsl:text><xsl:number count="footnote" from="/" level="any" format="1" /><xsl:text>]</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:text></footnote></xsl:text>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section[@id='toc']" />
-
-<xsl:template match="section" />
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level frontmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
-
- <xsl:text>\X1\l\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B\l\X1</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level front matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\X2\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l\X2</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\Q{</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level main matter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\X1\l\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B\l\X1</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level main matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\X2\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l\X2</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:text>\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" />><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" />><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level glossary sections ::::::::::::: -->
-<!-- Glossary sections should be contained in a second level section. -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\X2\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l\X2</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary']">
- <xsl:text>\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::: numbered sections ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\X1\l\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B\l\X1</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='numbered']/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\c\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- <xsl:text>\w="50%"</xsl:text>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level backmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text>\X1\l\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B\l\X1</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: third-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\l\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\l</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fourth-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <xsl:text>\B\Q="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" />><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/title" />
- <xsl:text>\B</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::: dedication template ::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="id( 'dedicate' )">
- <!-- PML doesn't allow blank lines at the top of a page without a space -->
- <xsl:value-of select="$newpage" />
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- <xsl:text>\c\i</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="data/p" />
- <xsl:text>\i</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== block elements ======================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="p">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dd/p | li/p">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="following-sibling::illustration">
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::illustration/instance[@class='text']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ul | ol | dl">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="li/ul | li/ol | li/dl | dd/ul | dd/ol | dd/dl">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="table">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tr">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="th">
- <xsl:variable name="indent-level" select="count( th | td )" />
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$indent-level = 2"><xsl:text>\T="33%"</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="$indent-level = 3"><xsl:text>\T="66%"</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text>\B</xsl:text><xsl:apply-templates /><xsl:text>\B</xsl:text>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="td">
- <xsl:variable name="indent-level" select="count( th | td )" />
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$indent-level = 2"><xsl:text>\T="33%"</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="$indent-level = 3"><xsl:text>\T="66%"</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="combat">
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="enemy" />
- <xsl:text>:</xsl:text>
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\t </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']">
- <xsl:text>COMBAT SKILL </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']">
- <xsl:text>CLOSE COMBAT SKILL </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\t </xsl:text>
- <xsl:text>ENDURANCE </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='target']">
- <xsl:text>(TARGET points) </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='target']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']">
- <xsl:text>(RESISTANCE points) </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='endurance']" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="choice">
- <xsl:variable name="link">
- <xsl:value-of select="@idref" />
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:for-each select="* | text()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::link-text">
- <xsl:text>\q="#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$link" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:text>\q</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="signpost">
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="blockquote">
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illustration">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="instance[@class='pml'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:text>\c\m="</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="instance[@class='pml']/@src" /><xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:text>\c</xsl:text>
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="instance[@class='text'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="instance[@class='text']/*" />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newparagraph" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="instance" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnotes" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnote">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="hr">
- <xsl:text>\w="80%"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dt">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dd">
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:text>\t</xsl:text>
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ol/li">
- <xsl:number count="li" /><xsl:text>. </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="following-sibling::node( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ul/li">
- <xsl:text>• </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
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-<!--
-
-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.2 2005/03/10 18:21:51 jonathan.blake
-Removed link to old staff email address.
-
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/10 06:37:11 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.7 2003/01/27 22:11:39 jblake
-Checkin prior to global footnote change
-
-Revision 1.6 2003/01/15 16:50:00 jdougan
-Checkin of Jeff Dougan's work.
-
-Revision 1.5 2003/01/15 16:43:50 jblake
-Small changes.
-
-Revision 1.4 2003/01/12 19:25:04 jblake
-Back to a working copy.
-
-Revision 1.3 2003/01/12 19:17:39 jblake
-This checkin is meant to fake the published release of
-the Rules Handbook made on 3 Jan 2003.
-
-Revision 1.2 2003/01/12 19:12:54 jblake
-Lots of changes. Should have checked in much earlier.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:31:08 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-//////////////////////////
-
-To Do:
-
-* Add entries for:
- - Willpower
- - Wizard's Staff
- - Nobles
-
-* make links more ubiquitous including
-
-combatskill
-endurance
-*willpower
-weapons
-backpack
-currency
-*noble
-specialitems
-*herb pouch
-*wizardsstaff
-
--->
-
-<meta>
- <title>Rules Handbook</title>
- <creator class="short">Project Aon Staff</creator>
- <creator class="medium">Project Aon Staff</creator>
- <creator class="long">
- <p>The <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a> Team is the group of fan-volunteers dedicated to publishing online the gamebooks by Joe Dever et al. They have co-authored this booklet in order to make the gamebooks more accessible and more enjoyable.</p>
- </creator>
- <publisher>Project Aon</publisher>
- <date class="publication"><year>2003</year><month>3</month><day>6</day></date>
- <description class="publication">
- <p>Published by <a href="&link.project.website;">Project Aon</a>.</p>
- </description>
- <rights class="copyrights">Copyright © 2002-2003 The Project Aon Team.</rights>
- <rights class="license-notification">
- <p>Copyright © 2002-2003 Project Aon.<br />Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a idref="license">Project Aon License</a>.</p>
- </rights>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
-</section>
-
-<section id="title">
- <meta>
- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="dedicate">
- <meta>
- <title>Dedication</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="acknwldg" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p class="dedication">To all those who created such a fantastic world.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="acknwldg">
- <meta>
- <title>Acknowledgements</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="title" />
- <link class="next" idref="preface" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>We would like to thank all those who have worked to make this booklet the useful tool that it is.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt>Contributors</dt>
- <dd>Jonathan Blake<br />Jeff Dougan<br />Joe Grocott-James<br />Simon Osborne<br />Thomas Wolmer</dd>
- </dl>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="preface">
- <meta>
- <title>Preface</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="acknwldg" />
- <link class="next" idref="kairulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In writing the Lone Wolf series, Joe Dever created a system of rules that is both simple and satisfying in its completeness. The rules seek to find a balance between being simple enough to learn in one sitting and being able to deal with situations encountered by the player in a reasonable, realistic and predictable way.</p>
- <p>However, the rules for the Lone Wolf books are not perfect, nor are they perfectly understandable to the first time reader. Many new readers are intimidated by the rules' level of complexity, skip over them and try to forget they ever existed. Although the Lone Wolf books can be enjoyed without following the rules, the reader will find greater enjoyment if the rules are understood and applied. For readers who understand the basic rules, there are inconsistencies and situations not covered by the rules. These inconsistencies and omissions can be frustrating for the conscientious.</p>
- <p>This Rule Handbook is intended to help both groups: new readers encountering the rules for the first time, and experienced readers encountering confusion about how to apply the rules in a particular situation. It is organized with the intention of helping you find the information you need when you need it.</p>
- <p>This booklet is divided up into sections based on the different series of gamebooks written and edited by Joe Dever: the <a idref="kairulz">Lone Wolf Kai series</a> (books 1&endash;5), the <a idref="mkrulz">Lone Wolf Magnakai series</a> (books 6&endash;12), the <a idref="gmrulz">Lone Wolf Grand Master series</a> (books 13&endash;20), the <a idref="norulz">Lone Wolf New Order series</a> (books 21&endash;28), the <a idref="wrldrulz">World of Lone Wolf series</a> and the <a idref="fwrulz">Freeway Warrior series</a>. Each section goes through the rules sequentially as presented in the books.</p>
- <p>A composite version of the rules for each series is written from beginning to end in its section. This composite appears without indentation. Where comment is necessary, it is inserted in indented text and <em>italic typeface</em>. For example:</p>
- <hr />
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em> The <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> is a set of tables which contain all information about your character such as items carried, skills possessed, etc. The <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> can take many forms. You may use a specialized program like StatsKeeper to help you keep track of character statistics. You may use a spreadsheet document. You may print out the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> that appears in the Internet Editions of the books and fill in the blanks. As you become familiar with the rules, you may want to create your own by hand on paper. The method you choose doesn't matter as long as you're comfortable with it.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <hr />
- <p>Links are also provided to helpful information in the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a>. For the first time reader, as you read through the rules, you can refer to this booklet to find explanations of the things you read in the order which you read them.</p>
- <p>In areas where there is more than one reasonable way to interpret rules, we will present justifications for the most reasonable interpretations and let you decide for yourself. The Rules Handbook is not here to dictate the One True Way. Find what you are comfortable with and follow it.</p>
- <p>The <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> which follows the several rules composites is an alphabetical listing of topics in need of clarification.</p>
- <p>We hope that you find this booklet helpful in better understanding the rules and finding greater enjoyment in Joe Dever's gamebooks. If this booklet doesn't answer all your questions, please <a href="&link.staff.contact;">contact us</a> with your question.</p>
- <p><strong>The Project Aon Team</strong></p>
- <ul>
- <li><a idref="kairulz">The [Kai] Game Rules</a></li>
- <li><a idref="mkrulz">The [Magnakai] Game Rules</a></li>
- <li><a idref="gmrulz">The [Grand Master] Game Rules</a></li>
- <li><a idref="norulz">The [New Order] Game Rules</a></li>
- <li><a idref="wrldrulz">The [World of Lone Wolf] Game Rules</a></li>
- <li><a idref="fwrulz">The [Freeway Warrior] Rules</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a></li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kairulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The [Kai] Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="preface" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaidisc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Theses rules do not come from any particular book. They are a generic set of rules designed to help new readers familiarize themselves with the rules&emdash;not walk the reader through a particular book. The details of the rules in each book will differ from what you find here.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and physical stamina&emdash;<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have already completed an adventure with your character, you should not pick his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> again. You should use those scores already picked.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 14.) When you fight, your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If at any time your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points fall to zero or below, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can never go above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You start each adventure with your maximum <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point score. (see <a idref="lwcn1987summer">Lone Wolf Club Newsletter: Summer Special 1987</a>)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>If you have successfully completed any previous book of the Lone Wolf series, you will already have your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>, <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points and Kai Disciplines which you can now carry over with you to this book. You may also carry over any <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that you held at the end of the previous book and these should be entered on your new <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and eight <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>).</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You may also carry over any <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a> and <a idref="topics-currency">Currency</a> (e.g. <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a>) that you possessed at the end of the last adventure. Some readers feel that you should not carry over Meals since they are perishable, but this is not even hinted at in the rules, so this is optional.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You may choose one bonus Kai Discipline to add to your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf adventure you have successfully completed; then read the section on equipment for this book carefully.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You may add <em>one</em> Discipline if you have completed a previous adventure successfully. In other words, you earn one new Discipline each time you complete an adventure successfully.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="kaidisc">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="kairulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="keqpmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Over the centuries, the Kai monks have mastered the skills of the warrior. These skills are known as the Kai Disciplines, and they are taught to all Kai Lords. You are a Kai initiate which means that you have learnt only five of the skills listed below. The choice of which five skills these are, is for you to make. As all of the Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your five with care. The correct use of a Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have already completed one or more adventures, you will already have picked your five initial Disciplines. You may add more Disciplines to your initial five as described later. It is quite possible that a particular Discipline will be of no use to you at all in a particular book which means that you should pick your Disciplines with even greater care.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <p>When you have chosen your five Disciplines, enter them in the Kai Discipline section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscc">
- <meta>
- <title>Camouflage</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Kai Lord to blend in with his surroundings. In the countryside, he can hide undetected among trees and rocks and pass close to an enemy without being seen. In a town or city, it enables him to look and sound like a native of that area, and can help him to find shelter or a safe hiding place.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Camouflage</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscu">
- <meta>
- <title>Hunting</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Lord will never starve in the wild. He will always be able to hunt for food for himself except in areas of wasteland and desert. This skill is very useful for it also enables a Kai Lord to move with great speed and dexterity.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Hunting: no need for a Meal when instructed to eat</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscs">
- <meta>
- <title>Sixth Sense</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Lord of imminent danger. It may also reveal the true purpose of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Sixth Sense</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidisct">
- <meta>
- <title>Tracking</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to make the correct choice of a path in the wild, to discover the location of a person or object in a town or city and to read the secrets of footprints or tracks.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Tracking</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidisch">
- <meta>
- <title>Healing</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline can be used to restore <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost in combat. If you possess this skill you may restore 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point to your total for every numbered section of the book you pass through in which you are not involved in combat. (This is only to be used after your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> has fallen below its original level.) Remember that your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> cannot rise above its original level.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill write <quote><a idref="topics-healing">Healing</a>. + 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics-healing">Healing</a> entry in the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a>)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscw">
- <meta>
- <title>Weaponskill</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Upon entering the Kai monastery, each initiate is taught to master one type of weapon. If Weaponskill is to be one of your Kai Disciplines, pick a number in the usual way from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> on the last page of the book, and then find the corresponding <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> from the list below. This is the <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> in which you have skill. When you enter combat carrying this <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, you add 2 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>0 = <a idref="topics-dagger">Dagger</a></li>
- <li>1 = <a idref="topics-spear">Spear</a></li>
- <li>2 = <a idref="topics-mace">Mace</a></li>
- <li>3 = <a idref="topics-shortsword">Short Sword</a></li>
- <li>4 = <a idref="topics-warhammer">Warhammer</a></li>
- <li>5 = <a idref="topics-sword">Sword</a></li>
- <li>6 = <a idref="topics-axe">Axe</a></li>
- <li>7 = <a idref="topics-sword">Sword</a></li>
- <li>8 = <a idref="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a></li>
- <li>9 = <a idref="topics-broadsword">Broadsword</a></li>
- </ul>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> does not mean you set out on the adventure carrying that particular <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>. However, you will have opportunities to acquire <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> in the course of your adventures. You cannot carry more than 2 <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Possessing Weaponskill doesn't <strong>necessarily</strong> mean that you start out with that <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, but you might.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <p>You cannot carry more than 2 <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>. If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponskill in &blankline; + 2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points if this <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscd">
- <meta>
- <title>Mindshield</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Darklords and many of the evil creatures in their command have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Kai Discipline of Mindshield prevents you from losing any <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points when subjected to this form of attack.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindshield: no points lost when attacked by Mindblast</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscl">
- <meta>
- <title>Mindblast</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This enables a Kai Lord to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used at the same time as normal combat <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and adds two extra points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Not all the creatures encountered on this adventure will be harmed by Mindblast. You will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mindblast: + 2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidisca">
- <meta>
- <title>Animal Kinship</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This skill enables a Kai Lord to communicate with some animals and to be able to guess the intentions of others.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Kinship</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaidiscm">
- <meta>
- <title>Mind Over Matter</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Discipline enables a Kai Lord to move small objects with his powers of concentration.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Mind Over Matter</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this book of Lone Wolf</strong>, you may add a further Kai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> in the next book. This additional skill, together with your other skills and any <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that you have found, may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf series.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="keqpmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>[Kai] Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="kaidisc" />
- <link class="next" idref="kaicmbt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>The way in which you obtain your equipment before the adventure varies greatly from book to book. What follows is a fairly common scenario intended to give you a feel for what to expect, but it may be very different from a particular book you read. Please carefully read the Equipment section of the book you are playing to find out its particular details.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Before leaving on your journey, you are given a map of the area and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> inside the pouch, and you may now enter this number in the <quote><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></quote> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total of any Crowns you may already possess. Remember you can only carry a maximum of fifty Crowns.)</p>
- <p>You may take your pick of the following items (in addition to those you already possess, but remember you may only carry two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>). You may take up to three of the following:</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> for details about a particular item)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>List the three items you choose on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points or <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p>
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaihwcry">
- <meta>
- <title>How to carry equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You don't need to make notes but you can refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> for details about a particular item)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaimhcry">
- <meta>
- <title>How much can you carry?</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>. It will hold a maximum of fifty crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, carry it in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaihowuz">
- <meta>
- <title>How to use your equipment</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> aid you in combat. If you have the Kai Discipline of Weaponskill and the correct <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, it adds 2 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. If you enter a combat with no <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>, deduct 4 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember you can only carry two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry eight items in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at once.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Each <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses. <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not usually carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics-safekeeping">Safekeeping</a> entry in the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a>)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The local currency is the Crown, which is a small gold coin. <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> can be used on your adventure to pay for transport, food or even as a bribe! Many of the creatures that you will encounter possess <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a>, or have them hidden in their lairs. Whenever you kill a creature, you may take any <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> that it has and put them in your <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If you have chosen the Kai Discipline of Hunting as one of your five skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat unless you are in an area of wasteland or desert.</p></dd>
- <dt>Healing Potion</dt>
- <dd><p>This can restore 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is only enough for one dose. If you discover any other potions during the adventure, you will be told then of their effect. All Healing Potions are <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="kaicmbt">
- <meta>
- <title>[Kai] Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="keqpmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="mkrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions on your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to zero while losing as few <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Kai Disciplines to your current <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of your enemy from this total. The result is your <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>. Enter it on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 15) is ambushed by a Winged Devil (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but must stand and fight as the creature swoops down on him. Lone Wolf has the Kai Discipline of Mindblast, so he adds 2 points to his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>, giving a total <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 17.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Winged Devil's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> from his own, giving a <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> of -3 (17 - 20 = -3). -3 is noted on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> as the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>When you have your <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="topics-combatresultstable">Combat Results Table</a>. Along the top of the chart are shown the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> numbers. Find the number that is the same as your <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> between Lone Wolf and Winged Devil has been established as -3. If the number taken from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points</li>
- <li>Winged Devil loses 6 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from Stage 3.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points reduced.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>It is not necessarily true that Lone Wolf will lose any <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> in combat. He may go unscathed.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <p>A summary of Combat Rules appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kvasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="mkrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The [Magnakai] Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="kaicmbt" />
- <link class="next" idref="mkdisc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Theses rules do not come from any particular book. They are a generic set of rules designed to help new readers familiarize themselves with the rules&emdash;not walk the reader through a particular book. The details of the rules in each book will differ from what you find here.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and physical stamina&emdash;<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have already completed an adventure with your character, you should not pick his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> again. You should use those scores already picked.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 14.) When you fight, your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (i.e. if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If at any time your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points over to this book. You may also carry over any <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and eight <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>).</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You may also carry over any <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a> and <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> that you possessed at the end of the last adventure. Some readers feel that you should not carry over Meals since they are perishable, but this is not hinted at in the rules so this is optional.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You many choose one bonus Magnakai Discipline to add to your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Magnakai adventure you successfully complete (Books 6&endash;12).</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You may add <em>one</em> Magnakai Discipline if you have completed a previous Magnakai adventure successfully. In other words, you earn one new Magnakai Discipline each time you complete a Magnakai adventure successfully.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="mkdisc">
- <meta>
- <title>Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mkrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="mkeqpmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Lord, and in the course of the adventures that led to the discovery of <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have mastered all ten of the basic warrior skills known as the Kai Disciplines.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have completed the first five books of the Lone Wolf series, you can continue to use the Kai Disciplines acquired in those books. (see the following Lone Wolf Club Newsletters: <a idref="lwcn1987summer">Summer Special 1987</a>, <a idref="lwcn10">No. 10</a> and <a idref="lwcn28">No. 28</a>) If you have not completed all of the first five books, use your personal judgement whether or not you should benefit from Kai Disciplines which you didn't choose in the books you did complete. If you have completed all five books of the Kai series, remember that you now possess all ten Kai Disciplines including the last one that you hadn't chosen previously. If that left over Discipline was Weaponskill, remember to chose a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> with which you are skilled as detailed in the Kai series books.</em></p>
- <p><em>Some Kai Disciplines have measureable bonuses that are useful to you in the Magnakai series. Other Kai Disciplines have less tangible effects and are assumed by the book (e.g. the Kai Discipline of Camouflage doesn't have a measureable bonus and the books assume you have this skill). The Kai Disciplines that are useful in the Magnakai series are:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Hunting&emdash;may be used to automatically find food in fertile areas, but still doesn't function in areas of wasteland or desert.</em></li>
- <li><em><a idref="topics-healing">Healing</a>&emdash;may be used to heal 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point while not in combat.</em></li>
- <li><em>Weaponskill&emdash;adds 2 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> if using the <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> with which you are skilled.</em></li>
- <li><em>Mindblast&emdash;adds 2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points to your total when used against an opponent who isn't immune.</em></li>
- </ul>
- <p><em>These bonuses are replaced by their Magnakai Discipline equivalent (e.g. acquiring Weaponmastery in your Weaponskill <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> gives you a +3 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> bonus&emdash;not +5).</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>After studying <cite>The Book of the Magnakai</cite>, you have also reached the rank of Kai Master Superior, which means that you have learnt <em>three</em> of the Magnakai Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which three skills these are. As all of the Magnakai Disciplines will be of use to you at some point on your adventure, pick your three with care. The correct use of a Magnakai Discipline at the right time can save your life.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have already completed one or more Magnakai adventures, you will already have picked your three initial Disciplines. You may add more Disciplines to your initial three as described later. It is quite possible that a particular Discipline will be of no use to you at all in a particular book which means that you should pick your Disciplines with even greater care.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The Magnakai skills are divided into groups, each of which is governed by a separate school of training. These groups are called <quote><a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circles</a></quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines in a particular <a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circle</a>, you can gain an increase in your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points score. (See the section <quote><a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circles</a> of the Magnakai</quote> for details of these bonuses.)</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your three Magnakai Disciplines, enter them in the Magnakai Disciplines section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="wpnmstry">
- <meta><title>Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to become proficient in the use of all types of <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>. When you enter combat with a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> you have mastered, you add 3 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. The rank of Kai Master Superior, with which you begin the Magnakai series, means you are skilled in <em>three</em> of the <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> in the list below.</p>
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li><a idref="topics-spear">Spear</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-dagger">Dagger</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-mace">Mace</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-shortsword">Short Sword</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-warhammer">Warhammer</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-broadsword">Broadsword</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-axe">Axe</a></li>
- <li><a idref="topics-sword">Sword</a></li>
- </ul>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>When using a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you are typically asked to choose a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> to determine the success of your shot. If you choose Weaponmastery with the <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you may add 3 to the number chosen.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with three <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> does not mean that you begin the adventure carrying any of them. However, you will have opportunities to acquire <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> during your adventure. For every Lone Wolf book that you complete in the Magnakai series, you may add an additional <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> to your list.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Possessing Weaponmastery doesn't <strong>necessarily</strong> mean that you start out with that <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, but you might.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Weaponmastery: + 3 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, and tick your chosen <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> on the <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> list. You cannot carry more than two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>) These improvements and those for subsequent Magnakai Disciplines are listed here for your convenience.</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Tutelary (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, Tutelaries lose only 2 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>, instead of the usual 4 points.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Mentora (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Mentoras skilled in Weaponmastery are more accurate when using all missile <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>, whether fired (e.g., a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>) or thrown (e.g., a <a idref="topics-dagger">Dagger</a>). When using a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> or thrown <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> and instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>, add 2 to the number picked if you are a Mentora with the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Scion-kai (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>When entering combat with a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> they have mastered, Scion-kai may add 4 points (instead of the usual 3 points) to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Also, when in combat without a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, they only lose 1 point from their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="anmlctrl">
- <meta><title>Animal Control</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai Discipline enables a Kai Master to communicate with most animals and to determine their purpose and intentions. It also enables a Kai Master to fight from the saddle with great advantage.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Animal Control</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Primate (4 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Principalin (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Principalins with this skill are able to call on a woodland animal (if nearby) to aid them, either in combat, or to act as a messenger or guide. The number of animals that can be summoned increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Archmaster (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Archmasters with this skill are able to command most animals to do their bidding, although effectiveness is diminished when attempting to control a hostile creature.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="curing">
- <meta><title>Curing</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>The possessor of this skill can restore 1 lost <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point to his total for every numbered section of the book through which he passes, provided he is not involved in combat. (This can only be done after his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> has fallen below its original level.) This Magnakai Discipline also enables a Kai Master to cure disease, blindness and any combat wounds sustained by others, as well as himself. Using the knowledge mastery of this skill provides will also allow a Kai Master to identify the properties of any herbs, roots and potions that may be encountered during the adventure.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Curing: + 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point for each section without combat</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics-healing">Healing</a> entry in the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a>)</em></p>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Primate (4 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Mentora (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Mentoras with this skill are able to neutralize the effects of any poisons, venoms or toxins with which they come into contact.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Archmaster (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Archmasters are able to use their healing power to repair serious wounds sustained in combat. If, whilst in combat, their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> is reduced to 6 points or less, they can use their skill to restore 20 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. This ability can only be used once every 100 days.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="invsblty">
- <meta><title>Invisibility</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Magnakai skill allows a Kai Master to blend in with his surroundings, even in the most exposed terrain. It will enable him to mask his body heat and scent, and to adopt the dialect and mannerisms of any town or city that he visits.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Invisibility</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Tutelary (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill when hiding from an enemy by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Principalin (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Principalins are able to mask any sounds made by their movements while using this skill.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Scion-kai (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Scion-kai are able to alter their physical appearance at will in order to deceive an enemy. The duration and effectiveness of this deception increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="hntmstry">
- <meta><title>Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill ensures that a Kai Master will never starve in the wild; he will always be able to hunt for food, even in areas of wasteland and desert. It also enables a Kai Master to move with great speed and dexterity and will allow him to ignore any extra loss of <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points due to a surprise attack or ambush.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Huntmastery</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Primate (4 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Principalin (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Principalins with this Magnakai Discipline are able to intensify their eyesight at will, giving them telescopic vision.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Archmaster (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Archmasters who possess this ability benefit from greatly increased senses of hearing, smell, and night vision. These senses become even more acute upon attaining the rank of Kai Grand Master.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="pthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In addition to the basic skill of being able to recognize the correct path in unknown territory, the Magnakai skill of Pathsmanship will enable a Kai Master to read foreign languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks (even if they have been disturbed), and detect the presence of most traps. It also grants him the gift of always knowing intuitively the position of north.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Pathsmanship</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Tutelary (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Mentora (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Mentoras who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to cross any kind of terrain on foot without leaving any tracks, even if the ground is covered in snow.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Scion-kai (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Scion-kai with this ability are able to converse with any sentient creature. They are also able to make themselves invisible when subjected to any psychic or magical spells of detection.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="psisurge">
- <meta><title>Psi-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This psychic skill enables a Kai Master to attack an enemy using the force of his mind. It can be used as well as normal combat <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and adds 4 extra points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p>
- <p>It is a powerful Discipline, but it is also a costly one. For every round of combat in which you use Psi-surge, you must deduct 2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. A weaker form of Psi-surge called Mindblast can be used against an enemy without losing any <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points, but it will add only 2 extra points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Psi-surge cannot be used if your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> falls to 6 points or below, and not all of the creatures encountered on your adventure will be affected by it; you will be told if a creature is immune.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-surge: +4 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points but -2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points per round</quote> and <quote>Mindblast: +2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Primate (4 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Principalin (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Principalins using this skill in combat are able to confuse an enemy by planting seeds of doubt in its mind. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Archmaster (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Archmasters may add 6 points to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> instead of the usual 4 points. For every round in which Psi-surge is used, Archmasters need only deduct 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 3 points without loss of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. Archmasters cannot use Psi-surge if their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score falls to 4 points or below.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="psiscrn">
- <meta><title>Psi-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Many of the hostile creatures that inhabit Magnamund have the ability to attack you using their Mindforce. The Magnakai Discipline of Psi-screen prevents you from losing any <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points when subjected to this form of attack and greatly increases your defence against supernatural illusions and hypnosis.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Psi-screen: no points lost when attacked by Mindforce</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Tutelary (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defence against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Mentora (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Mentoras with this ability can protect themselves from evil spirits and other non-corporeal beings that attack with psychic energy. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Scion-kai (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>When engaging in psychic combat Scion-kai are able to absorb and control some of the energies directed at them. By deflecting or inducing the hostile energy they can either reduce the damage they sustain, or increase the power of their own psychic attacks.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="nexus">
- <meta><title>Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this Magnakai skill will enable you to withstand extremes of heat and cold without losing <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points and to move items by your powers of concentration alone.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Nexus</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Primate (4 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Principalin (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Principalins with this ability can extinguish fires by force of will alone. The size of the fire, and the number that can be extinguished using Nexus increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Archmaster (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Archmasters with the skill of Nexus are able to withstand extremes of heat and cold, and possess limited immunity to harmful elements, such as flames, toxic gases, and corrosive liquids. The duration of this immunity increases greatly upon attaining Grand Mastership.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="dvnation">
- <meta><title>Divination</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="mkimprv">Improved Magnakai Disciplines</a> and <a idref="mklevels">Levels of Magnakai Training</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Tutelary (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities. However, this improved Discipline can be negated if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Mentora (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Mentoras who possess this skill are able to detect psychic residues lingering in a place where a dramatic event, such as a battle, a murder, a ritual sacrifice or a ritual ceremony, has taken place. By meditating at the scene of the incident, a Kai Mentora is able to visualize the event, even though it may have occurred in the distant past.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Scion-kai (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Scion-kai are able to leave their body in a state of suspended animation and, in spirit form, explore their immediate surroundings unhindered by physical limitations. This ability is called <quote>spirit walking</quote>. The length of time a Kai Master can spirit walk increases as he rises in rank. When the spirit is separated from the body in this fashion, the body remains inanimate and vulnerable to attack. If a Kai Master's body is killed whilst he is spirit walking, his spiritual self will also cease to exist, and vice versa.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p><strong>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this book of the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you may add a further Magnakai Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> in the next book. This additional skill, together with your other Magnakai skills and any <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures may then be used in the next adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="mkeqpmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>[Magnakai] Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mkdisc" />
- <link class="next" idref="mkcmbt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>The way in which you obtain your equipment before the adventure varies greatly from book to book. What follows is a fairly common scenario intended to give you a feel for what to expect, but it may be very different from a particular book you read. Please carefully read the Equipment section of the book you are playing to find out its particular details.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Before leaving on your journey, you are given a map of the area, and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></quote> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. You can carry a maximum of only fifty Crowns, but additional Crowns can be left in <a idref="topics-safekeeping">safekeeping</a> at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>You are offered a choice of equipment to aid you on your perilous mission. You can take three items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and eight <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> for details about a particular item)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>List the three items that you choose on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points or <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="mkhwcry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> for details about a particular item)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="mkmhcry">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only eight articles, including Meals, in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, carry it in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="mkhowuz">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> aid you in combat. If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery and a correct <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, it adds 3 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. If you enter a combat with no <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>, deduct 4 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> and <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> and <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a>. If you equip yourself with this <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, and you possess at least one <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a>, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> is a useful <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, like a <a idref="topics-sword">Sword</a> or <a idref="topics-mace">Mace</a>.</p>
- <p>In order to use a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> you must possess a <a idref="topics-quiver">Quiver</a> and at least one <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a>. Each time the <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> is used, erase an <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a> from your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. A <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a>, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery with a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>, when using the <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>. If you enter combat armed only with a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you must deduct 4 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and fight with your bare hands.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a>.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve. Surplus <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> may be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Anari is the Lune, but <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> are readily accepted at an exchange rate of four Lune for every 1 <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a>.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If you have chosen the Magnakai Discipline of Huntmastery as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Hunting may also be useful as noted in <a idref="mkdisc">Magnakai Disciplines</a>.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </dd>
- <dt>Potion of <a idref="topics-laumspur">Laumspur</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="mkcmbt">
- <meta>
- <title>[Magnakai] Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mkeqpmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="mklevels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to zero while losing as few <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Magnakai Disciplines and <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> to your current <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of your enemy from this total. The result is your <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>. Enter it on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 15) is attacked by a Nightstalker (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 22). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat but must stand and fight as the creature leaps on him. Lone Wolf has the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge to which the Nightstalker is not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 4 points to his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>, giving a total <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 19.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Nightstalker's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> from his own, giving a <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> of -3. (19 - 22 = -3). -3 is noted on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> as the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p>When you have your <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="topics-combatresultstable">Combat Results Table</a> on the inside back cover of the book. Along the top of the chart are shown the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> numbers. Find the number that is the same as your <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> between Lone Wolf and the Nightstalker has been established as -3. If the number taken from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points (plus an additional 2 points for using Psi-surge)</li>
- <li>Nightstalker loses 6 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from Stage 3.</p></li>
- </ol>
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points reduced.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>It is not necessarily true that Lone Wolf will lose any <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> in combat. He may go unscathed.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>A summary of Combat Rules appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="mkvasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="mklevels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Magnakai Training</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mkcmbt" />
- <link class="next" idref="mklore" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles that are achieved by Kai Masters at each stage of their training. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Magnakai series, you will gain an additional Magnakai Discipline and progress towards the ultimate distinction of a Kai Warrior&emdash;Kai Grand Mastership.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Master</li>
- <li>Kai Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Master Superior&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Magnakai adventures with this level of training</em>.</li>
- <li>Primate</li>
- <li>Tutelary</li>
- <li>Principalin</li>
- <li>Mentora</li>
- <li>Scion-kai</li>
- <li>Archmaster</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="mklore">
- <meta>
- <title>Lore-circles of the Magnakai</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mklevels" />
- <link class="next" idref="mkimprv" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>In the years before their massacre, the Kai Masters of Sommerlund devoted themselves to the study of the Magnakai. These skills were divided into four schools of training called <quote><a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circles</a></quote>. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a <a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circle</a>, the Kai Masters developed their fighting prowess (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>), and their physical and mental stamina (<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>) to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could otherwise attain.</p>
- <p>Listed below are the four <a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circles</a> of the Magnakai and the skills that must be mastered in order to complete them.</p>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>Weaponmastery &ersand; Huntmastery</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>Animal Control &ersand; Curing</dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>Invisibility, Huntmastery &ersand; Pathsmanship</dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>Psi-surge, Psi-screen, Nexus &ersand; Divination</dd>
- </dl>
- <p>By completing a <a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circle</a>, you may add to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> the extra bonus points that are shown below.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="lcbonus">
- <meta><title>Lore-circle bonuses</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt>Circle of Fire</dt>
- <dd>+1 <a idref="topics-cs"><typ class="attribute">CS</typ></a> +2 <a idref="topics-ep"><typ class="attribute">EP</typ></a></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Light</dt>
- <dd>0 <a idref="topics-cs"><typ class="attribute">CS</typ></a> +3 <a idref="topics-ep"><typ class="attribute">EP</typ></a></dd>
- <dt>Circle of Solaris</dt>
- <dd>+1 <a idref="topics-cs"><typ class="attribute">CS</typ></a> +3 <a idref="topics-ep"><typ class="attribute">EP</typ></a></dd>
- <dt>Circle of the Spirit</dt>
- <dd>+3 <a idref="topics-cs"><typ class="attribute">CS</typ></a> +3 <a idref="topics-ep"><typ class="attribute">EP</typ></a></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>All bonus points that you acquire by completing a <a idref="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circle</a> are additions to your basic <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> scores.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="mkimprv">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved [Magnakai] Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mklore" />
- <link class="next" idref="gmrulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Magnakai training you will find that some of your skills will steadily improve. If you have reached the rank of Primate (four skills), Tutelary (five skills), Principalin (six skills), Mentora (seven skills), Scion-kai (eight skills), or Archmaster (nine skills), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Magnakai Disciplines:</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="primate">
- <meta><title>Primate</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd><p>Primates with this Magnakai Discipline are able to repel an animal that is intent on harming them by blocking its sense of taste and smell. The level of success is dependent on the size and ferocity of the animal.</p></dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd><p>Primates with this skill have the ability to delay the effects of poisons, including venoms, that they may come into contact with. Although a Kai Primate with this skill is not be able to neutralize a poison he is able to slow its effect, giving him more time to find an antidote or cure.</p></dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Primates with this skill have a greatly increased agility and be able to climb without the use of climbing aids, such as ropes, etc.</p></dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Primates with the Magnakai Discipline of Psi-surge will, by concentrating their psychic powers upon an object, be able to set up vibrations that may lead to the disruption or destruction of the object.</p></dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Primates with the skill of Nexus will be able to offer a far greater resistance than before to the effects of noxious gases and fumes.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="tutelary">
- <meta><title>Tutelary</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Tutelaries are able to use defensive combat skills to great effect when fighting unarmed. When entering combat without a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, Tutelaries lose only 2 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>, instead of the usual 4 points.</p></dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd><p>Tutelaries are able to increase the effectiveness of their skill when hiding from an enemy by drawing the enemy's attention to a place other than that in which they are hiding. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Tutelaries with this skill can detect an enemy ambush within 500 yards of their position unless their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score is low due to wounds sustained or lack of food.</p></dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Tutelaries with this skill develop mental defence against magical charms and hostile telepathy. These defences increase in strength as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd><p>Tutelaries who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to recognize objects or creatures with magical skills or abilities. However, this improved Discipline can be negated if the creature or object is shielded from detection.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="prncpln">
- <meta><title>Principalin</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd><p>Principalins with this skill are able to call on a woodland animal (if nearby) to aid them, either in combat, or to act as a messenger or guide. The number of animals that can be summoned increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd><p>Principalins are able to mask any sounds made by their movements while using this skill.</p></dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Principalins with this Magnakai Discipline are able to intensify their eyesight at will, giving them telescopic vision.</p></dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Principalins using this skill in combat are able to confuse an enemy by planting seeds of doubt in its mind. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Principalins with this ability can extinguish fires by force of will alone. The size of the fire, and the number that can be extinguished using Nexus increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="mentora">
- <meta><title>Mentora</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Mentoras skilled in Weaponmastery are more accurate when using all missile <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>, whether fired (e.g., a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>) or thrown (e.g., a <a idref="topics-dagger">Dagger</a>). When using a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> or thrown <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> and instructed to pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>, add 2 to the number picked if you are a Mentora with the Magnakai Discipline of Weaponmastery.</p></dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd><p>Mentoras with this skill are able to neutralize the effects of any poisons, venoms or toxins with which they come into contact.</p></dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Mentoras who possess this Magnakai Discipline are able to cross any kind of terrain on foot without leaving any tracks, even if the ground is covered in snow.</p></dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Mentoras with this ability can protect themselves from evil spirits and other non-corporeal beings that attack with psychic energy. The effectiveness of this ability increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd><p>Mentoras who possess this skill are able to detect psychic residues lingering in a place where a dramatic event, such as a battle, a murder, a ritual sacrifice or a ritual ceremony, has taken place. By meditating at the scene of the incident, a Kai Mentora is able to visualize the event, even though it may have occurred in the distant past.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="scion">
- <meta><title>Scion-kai</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>When entering combat with a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> they have mastered, Scion-kai may add 4 points (instead of the usual 3 points) to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Also, when in combat without a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, they only lose 1 point from their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p></dd>
- <dt>Invisibility</dt>
- <dd><p>Scion-kai are able to alter their physical appearance at will in order to deceive an enemy. The duration and effectiveness of this deception increases as a Kai Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Scion-kai with this ability are able to converse with any sentient creature. They are also able to make themselves invisible when subjected to any psychic or magical spells of detection.</p></dd>
- <dt>Psi-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>When engaging in psychic combat Scion-kai are able to absorb and control some of the energies directed at them. By deflecting or inducing the hostile energy they can either reduce the damage they sustain, or increase the power of their own psychic attacks.</p></dd>
- <dt>Divination</dt>
- <dd><p>Scion-kai are able to leave their body in a state of suspended animation and, in spirit form, explore their immediate surroundings unhindered by physical limitations. This ability is called <quote>spirit walking</quote>. The length of time a Kai Master can spirit walk increases as he rises in rank. When the spirit is separated from the body in this fashion, the body remains inanimate and vulnerable to attack. If a Kai Master's body is killed whilst he is spirit walking, his spiritual self will also cease to exist, and vice versa.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="archm">
- <meta><title>Archmaster</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Control</dt>
- <dd><p>Archmasters with this skill are able to command most animals to do their bidding, although effectiveness is diminished when attempting to control a hostile creature.</p></dd>
- <dt>Curing</dt>
- <dd><p>Archmasters are able to use their healing power to repair serious wounds sustained in combat. If, whilst in combat, their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> is reduced to 6 points or less, they can use their skill to restore 20 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. This ability can only be used once every 100 days.</p></dd>
- <dt>Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Archmasters who possess this ability benefit from greatly increased senses of hearing, smell, and night vision. These senses become even more acute upon attaining the rank of Kai Grand Master.</p></dd>
- <dt>Psi-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Archmasters may add 6 points to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> instead of the usual 4 points. For every round in which Psi-surge is used, Archmasters need only deduct 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;Mindblast&emdash;they may add 3 points without loss of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. Archmasters cannot use Psi-surge if their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score falls to 4 points or below.</p></dd>
- <dt>Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Archmasters with the skill of Nexus are able to withstand extremes of heat and cold, and possess limited immunity to harmful elements, such as flames, toxic gases, and corrosive liquids. The duration of this immunity increases greatly upon attaining Grand Mastership.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gmrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The [Grand Master] Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="mkimprv" />
- <link class="next" idref="gmdisc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Theses rules do not come from any particular book. They are a generic set of rules designed to help new readers familiarize themselves with the rules&emdash;not walk the reader through a particular book. The details of the rules in each book will differ from what you find here.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You keep a record of your adventure on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>During your training as a Kai Master you have developed fighting prowess&emdash;<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and physical stamina&emdash;<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Before you set off on your adventure you need to measure how effective your training has been. To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have already completed an adventure with your character, you should not pick his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> again. You should use those scores already picked.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Add 25 to the number you picked and write the total in the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 31.) When you fight, your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Add 30 to this number and write the total in the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (i.e., if your pencil fell on the number 7 on the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would have 37 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points.)</p>
- <p>If you are wounded in combat you will lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If at any time your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, but your number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can never rise above the number you started with.</p>
- <p><strong>If you have successfully completed any of the previous adventures in the Lone Wolf series</strong>, you can carry your current scores of <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points over to this book. You may also carry over any <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> you have in your possession at the end of your last adventure, and these should be entered on your new <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> (you are still limited to two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>, but you may now carry up to ten <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>).</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You may also carry over any <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a> and <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> that you possessed at the end of the last adventure. Some readers feel that you should not carry over Meals since they are perishable, but this is not hinted at in the rules so this is optional.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>However, only the following Special Items may be carried over to the Lone Wolf Grand Master series (Book 13 onwards):</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Crystal Star Pendant</li>
- <li>Sommerswerd</li>
- <li>Silver Helm</li>
- <li>Dagger of Vashna</li>
- <li>Silver Bracers</li>
- <li>Jewelled Mace</li>
- <li>Silver Bow of Duadon</li>
- <li>Helshezag</li>
- <li>Kagonite Chainmail</li>
- <li>Korlinium Scabbard</li>
- </ul>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Late in the Grand Master series, this list undergoes some alterations to reflect events of the stories. If you begin the Grand Master series with Book 13, use this list throughout. If you begin later in the Grand Master series, then use the list as published in the appropriate book.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>You many choose one bonus Grand Master Discipline to add to your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> for every Lone Wolf Grand Master adventure you successfully complete (Books 13&endash;20).</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>You may add <em>one</em> Grand Master Discipline if you have completed a previous Grand Master adventure successfully. In other words, you earn one new Grand Master Discipline each time you complete a Grand Master adventure successfully.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="gmdisc">
- <meta>
- <title>Grand Master Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gmrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="gmeqpmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <section class="frontmatter" id="mksumary">
- <meta>
- <title>Kai and Magnakai Disciplines</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your distinguished rise to the rank of Kai Grand Master you have become proficient in all of the basic Kai and Magnakai Disciplines. These Disciplines have provided you with a formidable arsenal of natural abilities which have served you well in the fight against the agents and champions of Naar, King of the Darkness. A brief summary of your skills is given below.</p>
-
- <dl>
- <dt><a idref="wpnmstry">Weaponmastery</a></dt>
- <dd>Proficiency with all close combat and missile weapons. Master of unarmed combat; no <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> loss when fighting bare-handed.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="anmlctrl">Animal Control</a></dt>
- <dd>Communication with most animals; limited control over hostile creatures. Can use woodland animals as guides and can block a non-sentient creature's sense of taste and smell.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="curing">Curing</a></dt>
- <dd>Steady restoration of lost <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points (to self and others) as a result of combat wounds. Neutralization of poisons, venoms and toxins. Repair of serious battle wounds.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="invsblty">Invisibility</a></dt>
- <dd>Mask body heat and scent; hide effectively; mask sounds during movement; minor alterations of physical appearance.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="hntmstry">Huntmastery</a></dt>
- <dd>Effective hunting of food in the wild; increased agility; intensified vision, hearing, smell and night vision.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="pthmnshp">Pathsmanship</a></dt>
- <dd>Read languages, decipher symbols, read footprints and tracks. Intuitive knowledge of compass points; detection of enemy ambush up to 500 yards; ability to cross terrain without leaving tracks; converse with sentient creatures; mask self from psychic spells of detection.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="psisurge">Psi-surge</a></dt>
- <dd>Attack enemies using the powers of the mind; set up disruptive vibrations in objects; confuse enemies.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="psiscrn">Psi-screen</a></dt>
- <dd>Defence against hypnosis, supernatural illusions, charms, hostile telepathy, and evil spirits. Ability to divert and re-channel hostile psychic energy.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="nexus">Nexus</a></dt>
- <dd>Move small items by projection of mind power; withstand extremes of temperature; extinguish fire by force of will; limited immunity to flames, toxic gases, corrosive liquids.</dd>
- <dt><a idref="dvnation">Divination</a></dt>
- <dd>Sense imminent danger; detect invisible or hidden enemy; telepathic communication; recognize magic-using and/or magical creatures; detect psychic residues; limited ability to leave body and spirit-walk.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have completed the first twelve books of the Lone Wolf series, you can continue to use the Magnakai Disciplines acquired in those books. (see the following Lone Wolf Club Newsletters: <a idref="lwcn1987summer">Summer Special 1987</a>, <a idref="lwcn10">No. 10</a> and <a idref="lwcn28">No. 28</a>) <!-- JDOUGAN: Jon, do these references need updating? (probably) --> If you have not completed all of the first twelve books, use your personal judgement whether or not you should benefit from Magnakai Disciplines that you didn't choose in the books you did complete. If you have completed all twelve books of the Kai series, remember that you now possess all ten Magnakai Disciplines, including the last one that you hadn't chosen previously. Be certain to adjust your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> to reflect the bonuses of the last Lore-Circle.</em></p>
- <p><em>At times, the text will explicitly give you the option of using a Magnakai Discipline. At other times, some Magnakai Disciplines may have measureable bonuses that are useful to you in the Grand Master series but which are not explicitly prompted by the text. Other Magnakai Disciplines have less tangible effects and are assumed by the book (e.g. the Magnakai Discipline of Invisibility doesn't have a measureable bonus and the books assume you have this skill). The Magnakai Disciplines that can provide "tangible" bonuses in the Grand Master series are:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em><a idref="hntmstry">Huntmastery</a>&emdash;may be used to automatically find food (unless the text explicitly notes otherwise)</em></li>
- <li><em><a idref="topics-healing">Curing</a>&emdash;may be used to heal 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point (per numbered section of the book) while not in combat.</em></li>
- <li><em><a idref="wpnmstry">Weaponmastery</a>&emdash;adds 3 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> (4 if you reached the Magnakai rank of <a idref="scion">Scion-Kai</a>) if using the <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> with which you are skilled.</em></li>
- <li><em><a idref="psisurge">Psi-surge</a>&emdash;adds 4 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points to your total when used against an opponent who isn't immune, at the cost of 2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points per round of combat. Mindblast can still be used to add two points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> without loss of endurance points. (If you reached the Magnakai rank of Archmaster, Psi-surge will add 6 points to <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> at the cost of 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point per round of combat and Mindblast will add 3 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points at no <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> penalty.)</em></li>
- </ul>
- <p><em>These bonuses are replaced by their Grand Master Discipline equivalent (e.g. acquiring <a idref="gwpnmtry">Grand Weaponmastery</a> in a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> with which you have <a idref="wpnmstry">Weaponmastery</a> gives you a +5 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> bonus&emdash;not +8).</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Now, through the pursuit of your new skills and the further development of your innate Kai abilities, you have set out upon a path of discovery that no other Kai Grand Master has ever attempted with success. Your determination to become the first Kai Supreme Master, by acquiring total proficiency in all twelve of the Grand Master Disciplines, is an awe-inspiring challenge. You will be venturing into the unknown, pushing back the boundaries of human limitation in the pursuit of greatness and the cause of Good. May the blessings of the gods Kai and Ishir go with you as you begin your brave and noble quest.</p>
- <p>In the years following the demise of the Darklords you have reached the rank of Kai Grand Defender, which means that you have mastered four of the Grand Master Disciplines listed below. It is up to you to choose which four Disciplines these are. As all of the Grand Master Disciplines will be of use to you at some point during your adventure, pick your four skills with care. The correct use of a Grand Master Discipline at the right time could save your life.</p>
- <p>When you have chosen your four Disciplines, enter them in the Grand Master Disciplines section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>If you have already completed one or more Grand Master adventures, you will already have picked your four initial Disciplines. You may add more Disciplines to your initial four as described later. It is quite possible that a particular Discipline will be of no use to you at all in a particular book which means that you should pick your Disciplines with even greater care.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gwpnmtry">
- <meta><title>Grand Weaponmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This Discipline enables a Grand Master to become supremely efficient in the use of all weapons. When you enter combat with one of your Grand Master weapons, you add 5 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. The rank of Kai Grand Defender, with which you begin the Grand Master series, means you are skilled in two of the weapons listed overleaf.</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Brian Williams</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance class="html" src="weapons.gif" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="pdf" src="weapons.pdf" width="386" height="310" />
- <instance class="text" src="none" width="none" height="none" >
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <li>Spear</li>
- <li>Dagger</li>
- <li>Mace</li>
- <li>Short Sword</li>
- <li>Warhammer</li>
- <li>Bow</li>
- <li>Quarterstaff</li>
- <li>Broadsword</li>
- <li>Axe</li>
- <li>Sword</li>
- </ul>
- </instance>
- </illustration>
-
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>When using a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you are typically asked to choose a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> to determine the success of your shot. If you choose Grand Weaponmastery with the <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you may add 3 to the number chosen. <!-- JDOUGAN: Does this supersede any relevant missile bonuses from Magnakai Disciplines? --></em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>The fact that you are skilled with two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> does not mean that you begin the adventure carrying any of them. However, you will have opportunities to acquire <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> during your adventure. For every Lone Wolf book that you complete in the Grand Master series, you may add an additional <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> to your list.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Possessing Grand Weaponmastery doesn't <strong>necessarily</strong> mean that you start out with that <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, but you might.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
-
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>) These improvements and those for subsequent Grand Master Disciplines are listed here for your convenience.</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Sun Knight (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Knights with this discipline are able to wield <a idref="topics-twohandedweapons">two-handed weapons</a> (e.g. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, Spear, etc.) with full effect, using only one hand.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Lord (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Crown (10 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Grand Crowns with this discipline are consummate masters of unarmed combat. When fighting bare-handed i.e., without any weapons, they may add 3 points to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="anmlmstr">
- <meta><title>Animal Mastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters have considerable control over hostile, non-sentient creatures. Also, they have the ability to converse with birds and fishes, and use them as guides.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Grand Guardians with this discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian's bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Thane (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Thanes with this Discipline are able to command an animal to fall asleep at will. Some hostile animals may be able to resist this command, but most will be affected by it in some way. The duration of effect and the number of animals which can be affected at one time will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Crown (10 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Crowns with this ability are able to plant in the mind of any animal the image of their most-feared predator or adversary. Under the influence of this illusion the animal will believe, with all of its senses, that it is being confronted by such a creature instead of a Kai Grand Crown.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Prince (11 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Sun Princes with this Discipline are able to alter their appearance, including clothing and equipment, to take on the guise of any animal that they may come into contact with. This physical change will only be witnessed by the animal in question.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="deliver">
- <meta><title>Deliverance (Advanced Curing)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to use their healing power to repair serious battle wounds. If, whilst in combat, their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> is reduced to 8 points or less, they can draw upon their mastery to restore 20 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. This ability can only be used once every 20 days.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics-healing">Healing</a> entry in the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a>)</em></p>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Sun Knight (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature's body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Thane (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Thanes who possess this skill are able to conduct a Kai Exorcism. This ritual will banish any evil supernatural force that has taken possession of any goodly creature or object.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Thane (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Thanes with this Discipline are able to call upon the God Kai for divine assistance should a situation warrant it. Kai cannot intervene to save a Grand Thane from physical danger, but he can give signs which may help a Grand Thane chose the best course of action. A Grand Thane can call upon the God Kai for assistance no more than once every month. The frequency of divine audiences will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Prince (11 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Princes with this ability are able to cause the regeneration of lost body parts, i.e. hands, feet, arms, legs, bones and internal organs. This improved Discipline can be used to repair a Sun Prince's own body, or that of another person or creature. The time required to effect regeneration depends on the size and relative importance of the body part affected.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="assimila">
- <meta><title>Assimilance (Advanced Invisibility)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to effect striking changes to their physical appearance, and maintain these changes over a period of a few days. They have also mastered advanced camouflage techniques that make them virtually undetectable in an open landscape.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infra-vision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Lord (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Thane (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Thanes who possess this skill are able to protect themselves from detection by creatures using infra-vision (the ability to see the heat radiating from a person or thing), or ultra-vision (the ability to detect objects or movement in the ultra-violet spectrum of light).</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Prince (11 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Sun Princes who possess this Discipline are able to create an illusory double of themselves and project this image up to a range of thirty feet. The Sun Prince must remain in visual contact with his/her image in order to maintain the illusion. Physical, magical, and psychic attacks upon the illusory image will cause no injury. The range of this ability increases substantially when a Sun Prince attains the rank of Kai Supreme Master.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="ghntmstr">
- <meta><title>Grand Huntmastery</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to see in total darkness, and have greatly heightened senses of touch and taste.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Lord (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, i.e. they can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Thane (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Sun Thanes with this skill are able to protect themselves from the effects of being struck by natural electrical discharges, i.e. <!-- JDOUGAN: what we want here is e.g., not i.e. -->lightning.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Prince (11 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Prince are able to control their direction and rate of movement when subjected to strong currents of air or water, or when venturing through non-material planes of existence, e.g., Shadow Gates.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gpthmnshp">
- <meta><title>Grand Pathsmanship</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to resist entrapment by hostile plants, and have a super-awareness of ambush, or the threat of ambush, in woods and dense forests.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Sun Knight (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Thane (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to alter the temperature of water by touch. By using this skill they are able to transform water into ice and vice versa. The volume of water affected, and the duration of effect, both increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Crown (10 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Crowns with this skill are able to create a clear passageway through dense undergrowth, forest, or jungle. Once having passed through this passageway, the plant material will revert to its normal state. This skill can also be employed by a Kai Grand Crown against magical foliage, or to counter any plant material ranged against him by an enemy.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaisurge">
- <meta><title>Kai-surge</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>When using their psychic ability to attack an enemy, Grand Masters may add 8 points to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. For every round in which Kai-surge is used, Grand Masters need only deduct 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point. When using the weaker psychic attack&emdash;<a idref="kaidiscl">Mindblast</a>&emdash;they may add 4 points without loss of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. (Kai-surge, <a idref="psisurge">Psi-surge</a>, and <a idref="kaidiscl">Mindblast</a> cannot be used simultaneously.)</p>
- <p>Grand Masters cannot use Kai-surge if their <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score falls to 6 points or below.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Lord (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-Blast&emdash;a pulse ofintense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points in one attack. However, use of a Kai-Blast will reduce a Sun Lord's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Thane (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Thanes with this skill are able to focus their mind-power upon inanimate breakable objects, e.g., bottles, windows, all ceramics, urns, jugs etc, and cause them to explode violently. Any person or creature in close proximity to such an explosion risks injury from flying shrapnel.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Prince (11 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Princes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to focus their psychic power into a Kai-Ray: a laser-like beam of mental energy capable of penetrating the strongest of psychic defences. This ability can be used once during a combat to reduce an enemy's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score by 15 points. However, use of this Kai-Ray will also reduce a Sun Prince's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score by 4 points. It cannot be used if a Sun Prince's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score is 10 or less and it cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kaiscrn">
- <meta><title>Kai-screen</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>In psychic combat, Grand Masters are able to construct mind fortresses capable of protecting themselves and others. The strength and capacity of these fortresses eases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Thane (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to erect a special psychic defence called <quote>Mindfort</quote>. A Mindfort defence greatly reduces the effects of any psychic shock that would normally paralyse or weaken a lesser mortal.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Crown (10 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Crowns who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to mask the goodly aura which radiates naturally from their minds and bodies. Additionally, Grand Crowns can deliberately alter these auras to give a false impression of themselves to creatures who are sensitive to such psychic auras.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Prince (11 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Princes who possess this Discipline are able to create a mental sanctuary in which to keep safe their minds <!-- jdougan: [IMHO - keep their minds safe] -->from psychic assault. Creation of this sanctuary does not require thought or concentration; it occurs instantly whenever a Kai Sun Prince is subjected to psychic attack. The defensive strength of this sanctuary further increases when a Sun Prince attains the rank of Kai Supreme Master.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="grnexus">
- <meta><title>Grand Nexus</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Grand Masters are able to withstand contact with harmful elements, such as flames and acids, for upwards of an hour in duration. This ability increases as a Grand Master advances in rank.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Sun Knight (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Distipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Thane (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline can pass freely through the Shadow Gates. These phenomena are special portals which enable one to access other dimensions and planes of existence outside of Magnamund. Kai Grand Thanes are able to detect the location of Shadow Gates and pass through them without suffering any physical ill effects. The range of their detection increases as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Crown (10 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Crowns who possess this Discipline are able to speak a Kai Power Word&emdash;a holy utterance which will cause physical and psychic damage to any single creature within a radius of thirty feet. The degree of damage so caused, and the resultant drain upon a Grand Crown's reserves of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>, are dependent upon individual circumstances. The power and range of this skill increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gnosis">
- <meta><title>Telegnosis (Advanced Divination)</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>This skill may warn a Kai Master of imminent or unseen danger or enable him to detect an invisible or hidden enemy. It may also reveal the true purpose or intent of a stranger or strange object encountered in your adventure. Divination may enable you to communicate telepathically with another person and to sense if a creature possesses psychic abilities.</p>
- <p>If you choose this skill, write <quote>Divination</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Sun Knight (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Lord (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body-weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surface, e.g., water, mud, lava and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Thane (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd><p><em>Grand Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to detect the exact location of precious gems, and valuable metals such as gold, platinum and silver. These minerals and metals may occur naturally in the ground or they could be part of a hidden treasure hoard. The range of this ability is limited at first, but increases steadily as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</em></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="magi">
- <meta><title>Magi-magic</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Lord Rimoah, you have been able to master the rudimentary skills of battle magic, as taught to the Vakeros&emdash;the native warriors of Dessi. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of Old Kingdom magic increase.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Splinter&emdash;This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc., to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></li>
- <li><em>Flameshaft&emdash;This causes the tip of any arrow, or arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</em></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Lord (7 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Penetrate&emdash;This increases the penetrative energy of any arrow, or arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</em></li>
- <li><em>Energy Grasp&emdash;This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the Brotherhood spell <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</em></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Thane (9 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Thane are able to use the following Old Kingdom battle-spells:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Power Glyph&emdash;By inscribing this ancient glyph (a secret magical symbol) upon a door, an archway, or even upon the lid of a closed box, a Kai Grand Thane is able to protect items or portals from being opened. Any creature attempting to open a portal protected in such a way will release the power of the glyph and suffer its deadly effects.</em></li>
- <li><em>Hold Enemy&emdash;Using this spell, a Kai Grand Thane is able to immobilize a single hostile creature anywhere within twenty feet of themselves. The duration of the spell is dependent upon the size and strength of the targetted creature. The range and duration of effect of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="kai-alchemy">
- <meta><title>Kai-alchemy</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>Under the tutelage of Guildmaster Banedon, you have mastered the elementary spells of left-handed magic, as practised by the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star. As you advance in rank, so will your knowledge and mastery of left-handed magic increase, enabling you to craft new Kai weapons and artifacts.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>Improvements: (see <a idref="gmimprv">Improved Grand Master Disciplines</a> and <a idref="gmlevels">Levels of Grand Mastership</a>)</em></p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><em>Sun Knight (6 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Halt Missile&emdash;This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. arrows, axes, crossbow bolts, etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2&endash;3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number lncreases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></li>
- <li><em>Strength&emdash;By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.</em></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- <dt><em>Sun Thane (8 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Thane we able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Slow Fall&emdash;By casting this spell, Kai Sun Thanes are able to slow their rate of free-falling to three feet per second, thereby avoiding damage upon landing while the spell is in effect. The duration of the spell is limited at first, but it steadily increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></li>
- <li><em>Breathe Water&emdash;Using this spell, a Kai Sun Thane is able to breathe underwater for ten minutes. The duration of effect increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</em></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- <dt><em>Grand Crown (10 Disciplines)</em></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><em>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Crown are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</em></p>
- <ul>
- <li><em>Teleport&emdash;By casting this spell, Kai Grand Crowns can transport themselves physically to any place which they can see with their own eyes. The spell will carry the caster, his equipment and clothing to his chosen sighted destination. It cannot be used on any other living creature and it will not transport any other living creature along with the caster. Use of this spell will cost the caster between 1 and 5 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points every time it is used. This cost reduces as a Kai Grand Master increases in rank.</em></li>
- <li><em>See Illusion&emdash;Using this spell, a Kai Grand Crown is able to detect an illusion and know immediately its true identity or purpose.</em></li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <p>If you successfully complete the mission as set in this, the first of the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you may add a further Grand Master Discipline of your choice to your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> in <a href="&link.13tplor;">Book 14</a>.</p>
-
- <p>For every Grand Master Discipline you possess, in excess of the original four disciplines you begin with, you may add 1 point to your basic <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> score and 2 points to your basic <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points score. These bonus points, together with your extra Grand Master Discipline, your original four Grand Master Disciplines, and any Special Items that you have found and been able to keep during your adventures, may then be carried over and used in the next Grand Master adventure.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="gmeqpmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>[Grand Master] Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gmdisc" />
- <link class="next" idref="gmcmbt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>The way in which you obtain your equipment before the adventure varies greatly from book to book. What follows is a fairly common scenario intended to give you a feel for what to expect, but it may be very different from a particular book you read. Please carefully read the Equipment section of the book you are playing to find out its particular details.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>Before leaving on your journey, you are given a map of the area, and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. Add 10 to the number you have picked. The total equals the number of <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> inside the pouch, and you should now enter this number in the <quote><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></quote> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf adventures, you may add this sum to the total sum of Crowns you already possess. You can carry a maximum of only fifty Crowns, but additional Crowns can be left in <a idref="topics-safekeeping">safekeeping</a> at your Kai monastery.</p>
- <p>You are offered a choice of equipment to aid you on your perilous mission. You can take three items from the list below, again adding to these, if necessary, any you may already possess. However, remember that you can carry a maximum of two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> and ten <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> for details about a particular item)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- <p>List the three items that you choose on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, under the heading given in brackets, and make a note of any effect they may have on your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points or <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gmhwcry">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em>(see the <a idref="topics">Topical Guide</a> for details about a particular item)</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gmmhcry">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> that you may carry is two.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>These must be stored in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Because space is limited, you may keep a maximum of only ten articles, including Meals, in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at any one time.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that can be carried on any adventure is twelve. Surplus <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> may be left for safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>These are always carried in the <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>. It will hold a maximum of fifty Crowns.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd><p>Food is carried in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Each Meal counts as one item.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> is given initial capitals (e.g. Gold Dagger, Magic Pendant) in the text. Unless you are told it is a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, carry it in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="gmhowuz">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> aid you in combat. If you have the Grand Master Discipline of Grand Weaponmastery and a correct <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, it adds 5 points to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. If you find a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> at once.)</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> and <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>During your adventure there will be opportunities to use a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> and <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a>. If you equip yourself with this <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, and you possess at least one <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a>, you may use it when the text of a particular section allows you to do so. The <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> is a useful <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, for it enables you to hit an enemy at a distance. However, a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> cannot be used in hand-to-hand combat, therefore it is strongly recommended that you also equip yourself with a close combat <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>, like a <a idref="topics-sword">Sword</a> or <a idref="topics-mace">Mace</a>.</p>
- <p>In order to use a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> you must possess a <a idref="topics-quiver">Quiver</a> and at least one <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a>. Each time the <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> is used, erase an <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a> from your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. A <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> cannot, of course, be used if you exhaust your supply of <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a>, but the opportunity may arise during your adventure for you to replenish your stock of <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a>.</p>
- <p>If you have the Grand Master Discipline of <a idref="gwpnmtry">Grand Weaponmastery</a> with a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>, you may add 3 to any number that you choose from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>, when using the <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember you can only carry a maximum of ten items in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at anytime.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it. If you have successfully completed previous Lone Wolf books, you may already possess <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a>.</p>
- <p>The maximum number of <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that a Kai Master can carry during an adventure is twelve. Surplus <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> may be left in safekeeping at your Kai monastery.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The currency of Anari is the Lune, but <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> are readily accepted at an exchange rate of four Lune for every 1 <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a>.</p></dd>
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If you have chosen the Grand Master Discipline of <a idref="ghntmstr">Grand Huntmastery</a> as one of your skills, you will not need to tick off a Meal when instructed to eat.</p>
- <blockquote>
- <p><em><a idref="hntmstry">Huntmastery</a> may also be useful as noted in <a idref="gmdisc">Magnakai Disciplines</a>.</em></p>
- </blockquote>
- </dd>
- <dt>Potion of <a idref="topics-laumspur">Laumspur</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This is a healing potion that can restore 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose only. If you discover any other potion during the adventure, you will be informed of its effect. All potions are <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="gmcmbt">
- <meta>
- <title>[Grand Master] Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gmeqpmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="gmlevels" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points are given in the text. Lone Wolf's aim in the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to zero while losing as few <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Lone Wolf's and the enemy's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li><p>Add any extra points gained through your Grand Master Disciplines and Special Items to your current <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> total.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 28) is attacked by a pack of Doomwolves (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 30). He is taken by surprise and is not given the opportunity of evading their attack. Lone Wolf has the Grand Master Discipline of Kai-surge to which the Doomwolves are not immune, so Lone Wolf adds 8 points to his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>, giving him a total <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 36.</p>
- <p>He subtracts the Doomwolf pack's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of +6. (36-30 = +6). +6 is noted on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio.</p>
- </li>
- <li><p><a id="kai-stage3">When you have your Combat Ratio</a>, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the Combat Results Table on the inside back cover of this book. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost by both Lone Wolf and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; LW represents points lost by Lone Wolf.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Lone Wolf and the Doomwolf Pack has been established as +6. If the number picked from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> is a 2, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Lone Wolf loses 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points (plus an additional 1 point for using Kai-surge).</li>
- <li>Doomwolf Pack loses 7 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
-
- <li><p>On the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to the participants in the combat.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="kai-stage3">Stage 3.</a></p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points of either the enemy or Lone Wolf are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Lone Wolf is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Lone Wolf proceeds but with his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A summary of Combat Rules appears on the page after the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="frontmatter" id="kevasion">
- <meta><title>Evasion of Combat</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat. If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Lone Wolf may lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points during that round (but then that is the risk of running away!). You may evade only if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="gmlevels">
- <meta>
- <title>Levels of Grand Mastership</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gmcmbt" />
- <link class="next" idref="gmimprv" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The following table is a guide to the rank and titles you can achieve at each stage of your journey along the road of Kai Grand Mastership. As you successfully complete each adventure in the Lone Wolf Grand Master series, you will gain an additional Grand Master Discipline and progress towards the pinnacle of Kai perfection&emdash;to become a Kai Supreme Master.</p>
- <ol>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Senior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Master Superior</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Sentinel</li>
- <li>Kai Grand Defender&emdash;<em>You begin the Lone Wolf Grand Master adventures at this level of Mastery</em></li>
- <li>Kai Grand Guardian</li>
- <li>Sun Knight</li>
- <li>Sun Lord</li>
- <li>Sun Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Thane</li>
- <li>Grand Crown</li>
- <li>Sun Prince</li>
- <li>Kai Supreme Master</li>
- </ol>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="gmimprv">
- <meta>
- <title>Improved [Grand Master] Disciplines</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gmlevels" />
- <link class="next" idref="norulz" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rise through the higher levels of Kai Grand Mastery, you will find that your Disciplines will steadily improve. For example, If you possess the Discipline of Grand Nexus when you reach the Grand Master rank of Grand Thane, you will be able to pass freely through Shadow Gates and explore the nether realms of Aon and the Daziarn Plane.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="guardian">
- <meta><title>Kai Grand Guardian</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian (5 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this discipline are able to summon a limited number of forest animals to their location. The creatures so summoned will become loyal and willing allies, willing to do the Kai Grand Guardian's bidding. This ability can only be used in an outdoor setting.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this skill are able to create a cloud of fog-like vapour within 15 yards of their location. This fog will obscure both normal and infra-vision. The duration of the fog increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians with this skill enjoy increased mobility when travelling across all types of terrain, whether on foot or on horseback. This improved ability is very useful when used to outdistance a pursuing enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to attack up to three enemies in psychic combat simultaneously.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Guardians who possess this Discipline are able to exercise a defensive psychic skill known as Mindblend. This cloaking ability enables them to both protect and hide their minds from being detected by a hostile psychic probe.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-Magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Kai Grand Guardian are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Splinter&emdash;This causes breakable items such as bottles, jugs, mirrors, windows, etc[.], to shatter to pieces. The range of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li>Flameshaft&emdash;This causes the tip of any arrow, or arrow-like missile, to burn fiercely with a magical flame which cannot readily be extinguished by normal means.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="sunkght">
- <meta><title>Sun Knight</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Knight (6 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights with this discipline are able to wield <a idref="topics-twohandedweapons">two-handed weapons</a> (e.g. Broadsword, Quarterstaff, Spear, etc.) with full effect, using only one hand.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this skill are able to repair serious wounds sustained by creatures other than themselves. By the laying of hands upon the affected creature's body, a Sun Knight can cause an open wound (or other serious injury) to mend itself. The speed at which this healing takes place increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Knights with this skill are able to repel at will all normal-sized insects within a radius of three yards. The range and numbers of insects so affected increases considerably as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess Mastery of this Distipline are able to feign death. By placing themselves into a state of suspended animation, outwardly they are able to achieve all semblance of being truly dead. However, whilst in this state the only sense that a Sun Knight retains is the ability to hear.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Knights who possess this Discipline are able to communicate telepathically over great distances. Initially the range of this ability is approximately 100 miles, but this distance increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Knight are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Halt Missile&emdash;This causes any projected or hurled missile (i.e. arrows, axes, crossbow bolts, etc.) which may pose an immediate threat to the life of a Sun Knight, to cease its flight and remain stationary in mid-air. The effect of the spell lasts for 2&endash;3 seconds, allowing the Sun Knight sufficient time to move away from its line of flight. Initially only one missile can be affected by this spell, but the number lncreases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li>Strength&emdash;By casting this spell, a Sun Knight is able to greatly increase his or her physical strength for a short duration. It can be used to lift or move heavy objects, or to effect a temporary increase in <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> scores whilst fighting an enemy in unarmed combat.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="sunlord">
- <meta><title>Sun Lord</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Lord (7 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords with this Discipline are able to cause the metal edge of any non-magical weapon to ignite and burn fiercely. When a weapon thus affected is used in combat, it inflicts an additional 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point loss upon an enemy in every successful round of combat. This ability cannot be used with a wholly wooden weapon such as a quarterstaff.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this skill are able to cause the outline of their bodies to become blurred and indistinct. By so doing, they can greatly increase their chances of avoiding magical and/or non-magical missiles directed at them.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Lords with this skill are able to see, with acute accuracy, light in the infrared spectrum, ie. they can see complex patterns generated by heat in near or total darkness. They can also see light in the ultraviolet spectrum.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to launch a Kai-Blast&emdash;a pulse ofintense psychic energy which is capable of affecting both psychically active and inactive enemies. This form of psychic attack is very effective, more so than a usual Kai-surge, Psi-surge or Mindblast. It can cause an enemy to lose between 2 and 18 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points in one attack. However, use of a Kai-Blast will reduce a Sun Lord's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points total by 4. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Lords who possess this Discipline are able to alter their body-weight in order to walk successfully upon different kinds of surface, eg: water, mud, lava and quicksand. Time duration and degree of surface difficulty increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Lord are able to use the following battle-spells of the Elder Magi:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Penetrate&emdash;This increases the penetrative energy of any arrow, or arrow-like missile, launched by a Sun Lord.</li>
- <li>Energy Grasp&emdash;This spell enables a Sun Lord to discharge a powerful electrical force into anything he or she touches. It is similar in effect to the Brotherhood spell <quote>Lightning Hand</quote>, but differs in that it is easier to control and channel the resulting energy. It also requires the actual touching of an object or an enemy to effect the spell.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="sunthane">
- <meta><title>Sun Thane</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Thane (8 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes with this Discipline are able to command an animal to fall asleep at will. Some hostile animals may be able to resist this command, but most will be affected by it in some way. The duration of effect and the number of animals which can be affected at one time will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this skill are able to conduct a Kai Exorcism. This ritual will banish any evil supernatural force that has taken possession of any goodly creature or object.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Thanes with this skill are able to protect themselves from the effects of being struck by natural electrical discharges, ie. <!-- JDOUGAN: I think that we want e.g. and not i.e. --> [i.e.] lightning.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to alter the temperature of water by touch. By using this skill they are able to transform water into ice and vice versa. The volume of water affected, and the duration of effect, both increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to erect a special psychic defence called <quote>Mindfort</quote>. A Mindfort defence greatly reduces the effects of any psychic shock that would normally paralyse or weaken a lesser mortal.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Thane we able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Slow Fall&emdash;By casting this spell, Kai Sun Thanes are able to slow their rate of free-falling to three feet per second, thereby avoiding damage upon landing while the spell is in effect. The duration of the spell is limited at first, but it steadily increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- <li>Breathe Water&emdash;Using this spell, a Kai Sun Thane is able to breathe underwater for ten minutes. The duration of effect increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="grthane">
- <meta><title>Grand Thane</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Kai Grand Master who has reached the rank of Grand Thane (9 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes with this Discipline are able to call upon the God Kai for divine assistance should a situation warrant it. Kai cannot intervene to save a Grand Thane from physical danger, but he can give signs which may help a Grand Thane chose the best course of action. A Grand Thane can call upon the God Kai for assistance no more than once every month. The frequency of divine audiences will increase as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess this skill are able to protect themselves from detection by creatures using infra-vision (the ability to see the heat radiating from a person or thing), or ultra-vision (the ability to detect objects or movement in the ultra-violet spectrum of light).</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes with this skill are able to focus their mind-power upon inanimate breakable objects, eg, bottles, windows, all ceramics, urns, jugs etc, and cause them to explode violently. Any person or creature in close proximity to such an explosion risks injury from flying shrapnel.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess mastery of this Discipline can pass freely through the Shadow Gates. These phenomena are special portals which enable one to access other dimensions and planes of existence outside of Magnamund. Kai Grand Thanes are able to detect the location of Shadow Gates and pass through them without suffering any physical ill effects. The range of their detection increases as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Telegnosis</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Thanes who possess this Discipline are able to detect the exact location of precious gems, and valuable metals such as gold, platinum and silver. These minerals and metals may occur naturally in the ground or they could be part of a hidden treasure hoard. The range of this ability is limited at first, but increases steadily as a Kai Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Magi-magic</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Thane are able to use the following Old Kingdom battle-spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Power Glyph&emdash;By inscribing this ancient glyph (a secret magical symbol) upon a door, an archway, or even upon the lid of a closed box, a Kai Grand Thane is able to protect items or portals from being opened. Any creature attempting to open a portal protected in such a way will release the power of the glyph and suffer its deadly effects.</li>
- <li>Hold Enemy&emdash;Using this spell, a Kai Grand Thane is able to immobilize a single hostile creature anywhere within twenty feet of themselves. The duration of the spell is dependent upon the size and strength of the targetted creature. The range and duration of effect of this spell increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="grcrown">
- <meta><title>Grand Crown</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Grand Crown (10 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Grand Weaponmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Grand Crowns with this discipline are consummate masters of unarmed combat. When fighting bare-handed ie, without any weapons, they may add 3 points to their <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p></dd>
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns with this ability are able to plant in the mind of any animal the image of their most-feared predator or adversary. Under the influence of this illusion the animal will believe, with all of its senses, that it is being confronted by such a creature instead of a Kai Grand Crown.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Pathsmanship</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns with this skill are able to create a clear passageway through dense undergrowth, forest, or jungle. Once having passed through this passageway, the plant material will revert to its normal state. This skill can also be employed by a Kai Grand Crown against magical foliage, or to counter any plant material ranged against him by an enemy.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to mask the goodly aura which radiates naturally from their minds and bodies. Additionally, Grand Crowns can deliberately alter these auras to give a false impression of themselves to creatures who are sensitive to such psychic auras.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Nexus</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Crowns who possess this Discipline are able to speak a Kai Power Word&emdash;a holy utterance which will cause physical and psychic damage to any single creature within a radius of thirty feet. The degree of damage so caused, and the resultant drain upon a Grand Crown's reserves of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>, are dependent upon individual circumstances. The power and range of this skill increases as a Grand Master rises in rank.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-alchemy</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Grand Crown are able to use the following Brotherhood spells:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Teleport&emdash;By casting this spell, Kai Grand Crowns can transport themselves physically to any place which they can see with their own eyes. The spell will carry the caster, his equipment and clothing to his chosen sighted destination. It cannot be used on any other living creature and it will not transport any other living creature along with the caster. Use of this spell will cost the caster between 1 and 5 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points every time it is used. This cost reduces as a Kai Grand Master increases in rank.</li>
- <li>See Illusion&emdash;Using this spell, a Kai Grand Crown is able to detect an illusion and know immediately its true identity or purpose.</li>
- </ul>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="sunprinc">
- <meta><title>Sun Prince</title></meta>
- <data>
- <p>If you are a Grand Master who has reached the rank of Sun Prince (11 Disciplines), you will now benefit from improvements to the following Grand Master Disciplines:</p>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt>Animal Mastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Princes with this Discipline are able to alter their appearance, including clothing and equipment, to take on the guise of any animal that they may come into contact with. This physical change will only be witnessed by the animal in question.</p></dd>
- <dt>Deliverance</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Princes with this ability are able to cause the regeneration of lost body parts, ie, [i.e.] hands, feet, arms, legs, bones and internal organs. This improved Discipline can be used to repair a Sun Prince's own body, or that of another person or creature. The time required to effect regeneration depends on the size and relative importance of the body part affected.</p></dd>
- <dt>Assimilance</dt>
- <dd><p>Kai Sun Princes who possess this Discipline are able to create an illusory double of themselves and project this image up to a range of thirty feet. The Sun Prince must remain in visual contact with his/her image in order to maintain the illusion. Physical, magical, and psychic attacks upon the illusory image will cause no injury. The range of this ability increases substantially when a Sun Prince attains the rank of Kai Supreme Master.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-surge</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Princes who possess mastery of this Discipline are able to focus their psychic power into a Kai-Ray: a laser-like beam of mental energy capable of penetrating the strongest of psychic defences. This ability can be used once during a combat to reduce an enemy's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score by 15 points. However, use of this Kai-Ray will also reduce a Sun Prince's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score by 4 points. It cannot be used if a Sun Prince's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score is 10 or less and it cannot be used in conjunction with any other form of psychic attack.</p></dd>
- <dt>Kai-screen</dt>
- <dd><p>Sun Princes who possess this Discipline are able to create a mental sanctuary in which to keep safe their minds <!-- JDOUGAN: [IMHO - keep their minds safe] -->from psychic assault. Creation of this sanctuary does not require thought or concentration; it occurs instantly whenever a Kai Sun Prince is subjected to psychic attack. The defensive strength of this sanctuary further increases when a Sun Prince attains the rank of Kai Supreme Master.</p></dd>
- <dt>Grand Huntmastery</dt>
- <dd><p>Grand Masters who have reached the rank of Sun Prince are able to control their direction and rate of movement when subjected to strong currents of air or water, or when venturing through non-material planes of existence, eg, [e.g.] Shadow Gates.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="norulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The [New Order] Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="gmimprv" />
- <link class="next" idref="wrldrulz" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>This portion of the booklet is yet to be completed.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="wrldrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The [World of Lone Wolf] Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="norulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="powers" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To keep a record of your adventure, use the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Before you set off on your adventure, you must discover how well your Shianti masters have prepared you for your quest by determining your fighting prowess&emdash;<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>&emdash;your state of mind&emdash;<a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a>&emdash;and your physical stamina&emdash;<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. To do this take a pencil and, with eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it on to the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
- <p>The first number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> in this way represents your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Add 10 to the number you picked and write the total in the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>. (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 4 in the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would write in a <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 14.) When you fight, your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> will be pitted against that of your enemy. A high score in this section is therefore very desirable.</p>
- <p>The second number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> represents your <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 in the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would have a <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> of 26). If you decide to use a spell or utilize the power of your <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a>, then you will lose <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points. If at any time your <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> falls to zero, you may not use any of your spells or your <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a>. Lost <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points can be regained during the course of the adventure, and it is possible for your <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points to rise above the total with which you start your adventure.</p>
- <p>The third number that you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> (e.g., if your pencil fell on the number 6 on the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> you would have 26 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points). If you are wounded in combat, you will lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points. If at any time your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over. Lost <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points can be regained during the course of the adventure but can never rise above the number with which you start your adventure.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="powers">
- <meta>
- <title>Magical Powers</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="wrldrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="weqpmnt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <p>When you start your adventure, your education in the ways of wizardry is incomplete. You have mastered only <em>five</em> of the seven magical powers that the Shianti call the <typ class="ital">lesser magicks</typ>. The choice of which five powers these are, is up to you. All of the lesser magicks will be of use to you at some point on your quest, so choose them with care. Your survival may depend on the correct use of a magical power at the right time.</p>
- <p>The seven magical powers available to you are listed below. When you have chosen your five powers, enter them in the Magical Powers section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="sorcery">
- <meta><title>Sorcery</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This power allows a wizard to transform his thoughts or desires into magical energy. By concentration of the will it is possible to create magical shields of force to bar doors or move objects. Sorcery drains more <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points than any other Magical Power, and is most effective when your <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points are high.</p>
- <p>If you choose this power, write <quote>Sorcery</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="enchant">
- <meta><title>Enchantment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power of Enchantment enables a wizard to charm or beguile other creatures, and create illusions in the minds of others. He will be able to extract information from others, place thoughts and compulsions into another's mind or cause them to believe that imaginary events are actually taking place. Some magical or highly intelligent beings may be immune to the powers of Enchantment</p>
- <p>If you choose this power, write <quote>Enchantment</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="elementl">
- <meta><title>Elementalism</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Power of elemental magic allows a wizard some control over the natural elements of Air, Fire, Earth and Water. By entering a trance and chanting incantations, you may summon aid from the spirits of the Elemental Plane. Elementals have very little understanding of man, and for this reason a wizard can never be sure of the nature of the aid the Elementals may send.</p>
- <p>If you choose this power, write <quote>Elementalism</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="alchemy">
- <meta><title>Alchemy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A wizard who possesses the power of Alchemy is able, through the mixing of various substances, to create magical potions. Given the correct ingredients, a potion may restore lost energy (i.e., <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points, <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a>), or temporarily improve various abilities (e.g., <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>). The use of alchemy may also allow a wizard to alter the nature of substances (e.g., change lead into gold), but the necessary ingredients and the correct equipment (e.g., a pestle and mortar) must be at hand. The use of the power of Alchemy drains no <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a>.</p>
- <p>If you choose this power write <quote>Alchemy</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="prophecy">
- <meta><title>Prophecy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The power of prophecy allows a wizard to foretell the future through meditation. A meditative state will allow a wizard to make the correct decision when facing conflicting choices or difficult actions; to discover the whereabouts of a person he has once met, or an object he has once seen. It may also allow him to determine the true nature of a stranger or a strange object. Magical beings or objects are sometimes hidden from the power of prophecy.</p>
- <p>If you choose this power, write <quote>Prophecy</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="psycmncy">
- <meta><title>Psychomancy</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This power bestows upon a wizard the ability to deduce facts about events by touching objects connected to them. Through deep concentration, a wizard may lay his hands upon any inanimate object and visualize scenes that have affected it. Visions brought about through the use of Psychomancy are often cryptic, taking the form of a riddle or puzzle. Some magic items are resistant to the use of Psychomancy and may, sometimes, impart misleading information.</p>
- <p>If you choose this power, write <quote>Psychomancy</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="evcation">
- <meta><title>Evocation</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Mastery of this power permits contact with the spirit realm. A wizard wishing to speak with the dead, or to call up a form from the spirit world, must draw a magic pentacle and enter a trance, when the use of the correct spell-chant will reach out to the Spiritual Plane. Standing within the protection of a magic pentacle, a wizard may consider himself to be relatively safe from harm. If he wishes to speak with a corpse, especially one whose former life was good and righteous, then a wizard can expect help and advice. However, contact with those whose former lives were evil or selfish can be a perilous, and often fatal, experience. Evil spirits are reluctant to return to the realm of the dead and may try to trick a wizard into freeing them into the world of the living. All spirits, good and evil, will require some service of the wizard in return for their aid. Any failure to perform this task, however difficult may result in the wizard losing his life.</p>
- <p>If you choose this power, write <quote>Evocation</quote> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="staff">
- <meta><title>Wizard's Staff</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your Staff is your most valuable possession. It looks and feels like an ordinary quarterstaff, yet it is stronger than any known metal. This is your main combat weapon, for you are untrained in the use of any other form of armed combat. It contains a potent force that is unleashed at will by the power of your mind, and causes a beam of destructive power to hurtle from its tip. Every time you unleash this power you must deduct 1 <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> point.</p>
- <p>In the event that your enemy survives such an attack or should you fall victim to a surprise attack, you will be forced to engage in close combat and must attempt to strike your enemy with the Staff. If your attack is successful, a bolt of energy will be released from the Staff that is capable of inflicting great physical harm. If you wish to increase the amount of damage that you inflict in this way, you must use more <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points and multiply the number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost by the enemy, accordingly. For example, if you chose to expend 3 <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points on your attack, all enemy <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point losses would be multiplied by three.</p>
- <p>If you enter combat without your Staff, deduct 6 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="weqpmnt">
- <meta>
- <title>Equipment</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="powers" />
- <link class="next" idref="wrldcmbt" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wear the grey robe and hooded cloak of a Shianti Wizard. Your only weapon is your <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a> (note this on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> under <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>). You wear a <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> containing 4 Meals (note under Meals on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>), and you have been given a map of the Shadakine Empire (note under <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>) which you place inside your robe.</p>
- <p>If you have chosen Alchemy as one of your Magical Powers, then you will have a leather pouch for herbs and potions hanging from your belt. The <a idref="topics-herbpouch">Herb Pouch</a> contains the following:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>2 empty Vials for carrying potions</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Saltpetre</li>
- <li>1 Vial containing Sulphur</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>Mark these 4 items in your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>Your <a idref="topics-herbpouch">Herb Pouch</a> will carry a maximum of eight items.</p>
-
- <p>On your last day on the Isle of Lorn, your Shianti Masters offer you the following gifts to aid you in your quest. According to Shianti custom, you may choose one of them. They are:</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li>Jewelled Dagger (<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>) This adds 1 point to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> when used in combat.</li>
- <li>Magic Talisman (<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>) This adds 2 points to your <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> total.</li>
- <li>Vial of Laumspur (<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) This restores 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose.</li>
- </ul>
-
- <p>When you have made your choice, mark the item on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> under the headings given in brackets, and make a note of any effect it may have on your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>, <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> or <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> totals.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="whowcary">
- <meta><title>How to Carry Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Now that you have your equipment, the following list shows you how it is carried. You do not need to make notes, but you should refer back to this list in the course of your adventure.</p>
-
- <ul>
- <li><a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a>&emdash;Carried in the hand.</li>
- <li><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>&emdash;slung over the shoulder.</li>
- <li>Meals&emdash;carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</li>
- <li>Jewelled Dagger&emdash;tucked into your belt.</li>
- <li>Magic Talisman&emdash;worn on a chain around your neck</li>
- <li>Vial of Laumspur&emdash;carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</li>
- </ul>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="whowmuch">
- <meta><title>How Much Can You Carry?</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd>The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is <em>two</em>. Your <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a> counts as one weapon.</dd>
-
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd>These must be stored in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Because space is limited, you may only keep a maximum of eight articles, including Meals, in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at any one time.</dd>
-
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> are not carried in the <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>, When you discover a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
-
- <dt><a idref="topics-nobles">Nobles</a> (Shadakine <a idref="topics-currency">currency</a>)</dt>
- <!-- WOLM: Is this correct? Compare to 02TFC -->
- <dd>These are carried in your Belt Pouch.</dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>Food is carried in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>. Each Meal counts as one item.</dd>
- </dl>
-
- <p>Any item that may be of use and can be picked up on your adventure and entered on your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> is given capital letters in the text. Unless you are told it is a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, carry it in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="whowuse">
- <meta><title>How to Use Your Equipment</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl>
- <dt><a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd>Your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> depends on your <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a>. If you do not possess your Staff when you enter combat you must deduct 6 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. If you enter a combat without a weapon, deduct 8 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. (Remember that you can only carry <em>two</em> weapons at once.)</dd>
-
- <dt><a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a></dt>
- <dd>During your travels you will discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. (Remember that you can only carry a maximum of eight items in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a> at any one time.) You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat.</dd>
-
- <dt><a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd>Each <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> has a particular purpose or effect. You may be told this when the item is discovered, or it may be revealed to you as the adventure progresses.</dd>
-
- <dt><a idref="topics-currency">Currency</a></dt>
- <!-- WOLM: Is this correct? Compare to 02TFC -->
- <dd>The <a idref="topics-currency">currency</a> of the Shadakine Empire is the <a idref="topics-nobles">Noble</a>, which is a small jade stone. The system of money is alien to the Shianti, and for this reason you begin your adventure with no money. Whenever you kill an enemy, you may take any <a idref="topics-nobles">Nobles</a> belonging to him and keep them in your Belt Pouch.</dd>
-
- <dt>Food</dt>
- <dd>You will need to eat regularly during your adventure. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat a Meal, you will lose 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points.</dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter-separate" id="wrldcmbt">
- <meta>
- <title>Rules for Combat</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="weqpmnt" />
- <link class="next" idref="fwrulz" />
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- <data>
- <p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points are given in the text. Grey Star's aim during the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to zero while at the same time losing as few <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points as possible himself.</p>
- <p>At the start of a combat, enter Grey Star's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points and the enemy's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of your <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
- <ol class="paragraphed">
- <li>
- <p>Calculate your current <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> total, based on the weapon you are using. (Remember, if you enter combat without your Staff, you must deduct 6 points from your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. If you have no weapon at all, you must deduct 8 points.)</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Subtract the <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p><a id="wrld-stage3">If you are using your</a> <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a>, decide how many <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points you wish to use. (Remember, you must expend at least 1 point.) Enter this number on your Combat Record in the box marked <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a>.</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>Grey Star (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 15, <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> 23) is ambushed by a Deathgaunt (<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> 20). He is not given the opportunity to evade combat, but he can use his <a idref="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a> against the creature as it swoops down on him. He subtracts the Deathgaunt's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> from his own, giving a Combat Ratio of −5. (15 − 20 = −5). −5 is noted on the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> as the Combat Ratio. Grey Star decides to use 2 <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points, which is noted on the <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> box of the Combat Record.</p></li>
-
- <li><p>When you have decided upon the number of <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points you wish to use, and have determined your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>.</p></li>
- <li>
- <p>Turn to the <a idref="topics-combatresultstable">Combat Results Table</a> on the inside back cover of the book. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number that you have picked. (The random numbers appear on the side of the chart.) You now have the number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost by Grey Star. To calculate the number lost by the enemy, multiply this by the number of <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points that Grey Star elected to use. Now you have the final number of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost by both Grey Star and his enemy in this round of combat. (E represents points lost by the enemy; GS represents points lost by Grey Star.)</p>
- <p>Example</p>
- <p>The Combat Ratio between Grey Star and the Deathgaunt has been established as −5, and Grey Star's <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points used as 2. If the number taken from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> is a 6, then the result of the first round of combat is:</p>
- <ul>
- <li>Grey Star loses 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points.</li>
- <li>Deathgaunt loses 5 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points, multiplied by 2 <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points, giving a total of 10 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost in all.</li>
- </ul>
- </li>
- <li><p>On the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to the participants in the combat, and Grey Star's amended <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points total.</p></li>
- <li><p>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</p></li>
- <li><p>Repeat the sequence from <a idref="wrld-stage3">Stage 3</a>.</p></li>
- </ol>
-
- <p>This process of combat continues until the <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points of either the enemy or4 Grey Star are reduced to zero, at which point the one with the zero score is declared dead. If Grey Star is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Grey Star proceeds but with his <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> points reduced.</p>
- <p>A summary of Combat Rules appears in the back of this book.</p>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="wevasion">
- <meta>
- <title>Evasion of Combat</title>
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>During your adventure you may be given the chance to evade combat If you have already engaged in a round of combat and decide to evade, calculate the combat for that round in the usual manner. All points lost by the enemy as a result of that round are ignored, and you make your escape. Only Grey Star may lose <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points during that round, but then that is the risk of running away! You may only evade if the text of the particular section allows you to do so.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="mainmatter" id="fwrulz">
- <meta>
- <title>The [Freeway Warrior] Game Rules</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="wrldrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="topics" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>This portion of the booklet is yet to be completed.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary" id="topics">
- <meta>
- <title>Topical Guide</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="fwrulz" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicsa" />
- </meta>
- <data>
-
- <p>The Topical Guide attempts to provide answers, or at least insight, into some of the inconsistencies and blind spots in the rules. It is organized alphabetically by topic. If you are looking for guidance on a particular subject, this is intended to be a quick reference.</p>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsa">
- <meta>
- <title>A</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topics" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicsb" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> is a set of tables which contain all information about your character such as items carried, skills possessed, etc. The <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> can take many forms. You may use a specialized program like StatsKeeper to help you keep track of character statistics. You may use a spreadsheet document. You may print out the <a idref="topics-actionchart">Action Chart</a> that appears in the Internet Editions of the books and fill in the blanks. As you become familiar with the rules, you may want to create your own by hand on paper. The method you choose doesn't matter as long as you're comfortable with it.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-adgana">Adgana</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>(<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) The leaves of the Adgana plant are a potent narcotic popular among the warriors of Magnamund. When dried, crushed, and eaten, they provide a potent enhancement to <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> for the duration of a fight, but at a high potential cost.</p>
- <p>Use of Adgana will grant a bonus of +6 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> for the duration of a fight when first used (i.e. all combats listed in a single numbered section). Immediately upon completing the combat, you must pick a number from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. If that number is either a 0 or a 1, you have become addicted to Adgana, and must reduce your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score permanently by 4 points.</p>
- <p>Regardless of whether addiction is suffered on the first use or not, future doses of Adgana will provide a bonus of only +3 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>. Addiction must still be checked for at the end of a combat, but now occurs on a pick of 0, 1, 2, or 3 from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-alether">Alether</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) This plant is common throughout much of Magnamund. Its orange berries are renowned for their ability to improve combat prowess either when eaten whole or when the juice of the crushed berries is drunk. Alether potions or berries typically provide a bonus of +2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> for the duration of a single fight, but the amount of the bonus is always specified when you find the item. It is uncertain whether or not Alether's effects should last for a single enemy or for all enemies in one numbered section.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-armour">Armour</a></dt>
- <dd><p>There is an interesting blind spot in the rules regarding armour which increases your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> (e.g. <a idref="topics-chainmailwaistcoat">Chainmail Waistcoats</a> and <a idref="topics-paddedleatherwaistcoat">Padded Leather Waistcoats</a>). For example, if you are wearing a piece of armour that gives you a 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point bonus and your current <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point score is less than or equal to 4, what happens if you lose or discard the armour? Your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score has fallen to zero or below, so strictly speaking, you should be dead. This doesn't mesh well with reality, so use your best judgement.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-axe">Axe</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand)</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-arrow">Arrow</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> carried in a <a idref="topics-quiver">Quiver</a>) This item is carried in a <a idref="topics-quiver">Quiver</a> and so doesn't take up any more space as a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> or <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> than the <a idref="topics-quiver">Quiver</a> required to carry it. You must possess an Arrow in order to use a <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsb">
- <meta>
- <title>B</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topicsa" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicsc" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-backpack">Backpack</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Your Backpack is used to carry various items. The maximum number of items that can be carried in your Backpack in the Kai and Magnakai series is eight. If you lose your Backpack, you cannot keep any Backpack Items until you find a Backpack in which to keep them. If you have lost your Backpack in an adventure and haven't yet found one before beginning the next adventure, you will be given a new one when you choose your equipment.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Your Belt Pouch stores 50 <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a> or an equivalent amount of another <a idref="topics-currency">currency</a>.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-bow">Bow</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand) You must have at least one <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrow</a> (usually carried in a <a idref="topics-quiver">Quiver</a>) to use a Bow&emdash;more if the text requires it. You cannot use a Bow in combat, but will be told in the text when you have an opportunity to use it. If you enter combat armed only with a Bow, it is the same as if you were unarmed.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-broadsword">Broadsword</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand) This <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> requires the use of <a idref="topics-twohandedweapons">two hands</a> in combat.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsc">
- <meta>
- <title>C</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topicsb" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicsd" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-chainmailwaistcoat">Chainmail Waistcoat</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> worn on the body) The Chainmail Waistcoat <a idref="topics-armour">armour</a> adds 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to your total. It may be used in conjunction with a <a idref="topics-paddedleatherwaistcoat">Padded Leather Waistcoat</a> for a cumulative 6 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point bonus. [cite LWCN]</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The Combat Ratio is not a true ratio in the mathematical sense. It is the difference between your character's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT RATIO</typ></a> and that of his opponent's. For example, if your character's <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> is 21 and his opponent's is 22, the Combat Ratio is -1 (21 - 20 = -1). <a idref="topics-negativenumbers">Negative</a> Combat Ratios are valid.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-combatresultstable">Combat Results Table</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>The Combat Results Table is used to determine your character's <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</a> loss and that of his opponent during a single round of combat. You cross-reference the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> with the number chosen from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>. (see <a idref="appb">Appendix B: Example Combat Results Table</a>) For example, if the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> is <a idref="topics-negativenumbers">-4</a> and the random number is 7, you would find the column that has <a idref="topics-negativenumbers">-4</a> at the top (note that most columns have two or more <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratios</a>) and the row that 7 on the side. Where that row and that column intersect, the opponents' <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point</a> loss is found. (see the example)</p>
- <illustration class="inline">
- <meta>
- <creator>Jonathan Blake</creator>
- </meta>
- <instance src="crtnegex.gif" width="250" height="306" class="html" mime-type="image/gif" />
- </illustration>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-combatskill">Combat Skill</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This is a measurement of your overall fighting prowess which can be effected by many things such as equipment carried, how surprised you are by an attack, your skills, etc. When in combat, your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> is compared to your enemy's&emdash;the higher your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> score the better.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-cs">CS</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Abbreviation for <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a></p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-currency">Currency</a></dt>
- <dd><p>There are various forms of currency in use throughout Magnamund. The most commonly used in Lone Wolf's adventures is the <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a>. Other currencies include the <a idref="topics-lune">Lune</a> and the <a idref="topics-kika">Kika</a>. All forms of currency are stored in the <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsd">
- <meta>
- <title>D</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topicsc" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicse" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-dagger">Dagger</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand)</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-daggerofvashna">Dagger of Vashna</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This cursed blade is a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> carried tucked into your belt. Although a potent <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> which may be useful on Lone Wolf's adventures, it doesn't carry a bonus to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> or <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> outside of the Darklands.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicse">
- <meta>
- <title>E</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topicsd" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicsf" />
- </meta>
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-endurance">Endurance</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This is a measurement of your overall health and stamina. If your <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> score ever falls to zero <a idref="topics-negativenumbers">or below</a>, your character is dead.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-ep">EP</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Abbreviation for <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points</a></p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsf">
- <meta>
- <title>F</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topicse" />
- <link class="next" idref="topicsg" />
- </meta>
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-fireseed">Fireseeds</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> carried in your pocket) Small, explosive items that burn fiercely when thrown against a hard surface. The total of all the Fireseeds you are carrying always takes up the space of exactly one <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, no matter how many you carry. (see <a idref="lwcn1987summer">Lone Wolf Club Newsletter: Summer Special 1987</a>)</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsg">
- <meta>
- <title>G</title>
- <link class="prev" idref="topicsf" />
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- </meta>
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Gold Crowns are a common form of <a idref="topics-currency">Currency</a> used in Magnamund which you carry in your <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsh">
- <meta>
- <title>H</title>
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- </meta>
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="topics-healing">Healing</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Healing provides the ability to cure minor diseases, heal injuries and wounds, and provide a steady restoration of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> when not involved in combat. There is some uncertainty as to what kind of <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> losses can be restored by this Discipline and its enhancements. The Kai series described Healing as effective against <quote><a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost in combat.</quote> This implies that losses due to missed Meals and other non-combat losses are not curable using Healing. The description of Curing in the Magnakai series does not contain this restriction. The descriptions of Curing in the Grand Master and New Order series do contain this restriction however. Curing is described in these series as being effective against <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points lost as a result of combat.</p>
- <p>Strict adherence to the rules would dictate that only <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> lost in combat can be restored using Healing and its improved derivatives: Curing and Deliverance. Common sense says that wounds similar to those sustained in combat can also be healed, but <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> lost due to hunger, fatigue, etc. cannot.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-herbpouch">Herb Pouch</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Carried by those skilled in the Wizard's power of Alchemy, it is used to carry the raw materials necessary to use this power. Contrary to what is stated in <cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>, the Herb Pouch can carry eight items. (see <a idref="lwcn1986summer">Lone Wolf Club Newsletter: Summer Special 1986</a>)</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
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- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsi">
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- <dt><a id="topics-kika">Kika</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The Kika is the form of <a idref="topics-currency">currency</a> used by the Darklords' minions. This small iron coin is worth one-tenth of a <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a> and ten of them take up as much space in your <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a> as a single <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a>.</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
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- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsl">
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- <title>L</title>
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- <dt><a id="topics-lantern">Lantern</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This item can be used as a source of light similar to a <a idref="topics-torch">Torch</a> and <a idref="topics-tinderbox">Tinderbox</a> except this is the only item that you need.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-laumspur">Laumspur</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) This prolific herb is well-known for the curative properties possessed by its red flowers. While they can occasionally be eaten whole, they are more typically crushed and extracted to form a red-coloured potion. Laumspur potions typically restore 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points per dose, but the amount is always specified when you find the item. Laumspur also has curative powers over some diseases.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-lorecircles">Lore-circles</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The Lore-circles of the Magnakai represent groups of Disciplines that, when possessed together, have a synergistic effect. Every time you complete a Lore-circle by acquiring the appropriate Disciplines, you add the appropriate <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> and <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point bonuses immediately and permanently to your basic scores. Lore-circles that you have completed may give you other advantages throughout your adventure, as indicated in the text. These advantages are always related to the Disciplines that make up the Lore-circle. For example, if you have the Lore-circle of Solaris, you may have an advantage in a situation that requires excellent awareness. Note that the Discipline of Huntmastery counts towards two different Lore-circles.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-lune">Lune</a></dt>
- <dd><p>A <a idref="topics-currency">currency</a> used in Magnamund. The silver coin is equivalent in weight and value to one quarter of a <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a>. Four Lune therefore take up the same space as one <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crown</a> in your <a idref="topics-beltpouch">Belt Pouch</a>.</p></dd>
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- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsm">
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- <dt><a id="topics-mace">Mace</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand)</p></dd>
- <dt>Money</dt>
- <dd><p>(See <a idref="topics-currency">Currency</a>)</p></dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsn">
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- <dt><a id="topics-negativenumbers">Negative Numbers</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>Negative numbers are used throughout the books. They are the numbers below zero. For example, if we have 1 and subtract 1 from it, we have 0. If we subtract 1 again, we have the next number below zero: -1 (we call this negative 1). The minus sign before the one tells us that it is a negative number. If we subtract 1 yet again, we have -2, and so on.</p>
- <p>If we count from -5 to 5, it looks like this: -5, -4, -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. If we subtract 5 from 3, we get -2. To see that this is true, start at 3 and count back 5 numbers.</p>
- <p>To add a negative number to a normal (positive) number, we can think of it like subtraction. For example, if we add 3 and -2 we get 1. 3 + -2 is the same as 3 - 2, which is 1.</p>
- <p>As a practical example of how negative numbers are used, during combat the opponent's score is subtracted from Lone Wolf's to find the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a>. If, for example, Lone Wolf has a <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> of 16 and his opponent has one of 18, the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> is -2 (16 - 18 = -2).</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-nobles">Nobles</a></dt>
- </dl>
- </data>
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- <dt><a id="topics-paddedleatherwaistcoat">Padded Leather Waistcoat</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> worn on the body) The Padded Leather Waistcoat <a idref="topics-armour">armour</a> adds 2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points as long as it is worn. It may be worn with a <a idref="topics-chainmailwaistcoat">Chainmail Waistcoat</a> which would add the two <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point bonuses together. [cite LWCN]</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-potionoflaumspur">Potion of Laumspur</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(see <a idref="topics-laumspur">Laumspur</a>)</p></dd>
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- </data>
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- <dt><a id="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand) This <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> requires the use of <a idref="topics-twohandedweapons">two hands</a> in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-quiver">Quiver</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> worn slung over your shoulder) You must possess this <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> in order to carry <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a>. A Quiver will hold a maximum of six <a idref="topics-arrow">Arrows</a>. Although strange, the rules never state that you cannot wear more than one Quiver.</p></dd>
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- </data>
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- <section class="glossary-separate" id="topicsr">
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- <title>R</title>
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- <dt><a id="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a></dt>
- <dd><p>The Random Number Table is a ten-by-ten grid of random numbers that was printed in the back of the original series (see <a idref="appa">Appendix A: Example Random Number Table</a>). It was intended to allow you to play the books with minimal equipment. However, blindly stabbing a pencil at a page can be clumsy and not very random. You may also choose to use any method that gives you a random number between 0 and 9 (e.g. ten-sided die or computer random number generator).</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-rope">Rope</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) Some Ropes are larger than others and require two spaces in your <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>.</p></dd>
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- <dt><a id="topics-safekeeping">Safekeeping</a></dt>
- <dd><p>You may store any item you chose in safekeeping at the monastery beginning with Book 5 <cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>. (see <a idref="lwcn7">Lone Wolf Club Newsletter No. 7</a>) There is no limit to the number of items you may store at the monastery, but be sure to note which items you keep there and what kind of item it is (i.e. <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack</a>, <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>, etc.). Items in safekeeping may be reclaimed at the beginning of a book during the equipment selection process. You cannot access these items during the adventure.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-shield">Shield</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> normally worn slung over the shoulder but carried in the hand during combat) The Shield gives you a 2 point <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> bonus. Optionally, may not be used with <a idref="topics-twohandedweapons">two-handed weapons</a>.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-shortsword">Short Sword</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand)</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-silverbowofduadon">Silver Bow of Duadon</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>) This is a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> not a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> (see ???). It adds +3 to every number you pick from the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a> when using this <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a> to make a shot.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-sommerswerd">Sommerswerd</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>) This legendary <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> forged by a god-like race and given to the Sommlending is a powerful bane against evil. It grants a +8 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> bonus when used in combat. Any Discipline bonus due to Weaponskill, Weaponmastery, or Grand Weaponmastery with <a idref="topics-sword">Swords</a>, <a idref="topics-shortsword">Short Swords</a>, or <a idref="topics-broadsword">Broadswords</a> is applicable when using the Sommerswerd. The Sommerswerd also absorbs hostile magic used against its bearer, and doubles all damage done to an undead opponent. It enhances the Disciplines of Sixth Sense, Divination, and Telegnosis. (see Sections 97 and 242 of <cite><a href="&link.02fotw;">Fire on the Water</a></cite>)</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-spear">Spear</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand) This <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> requires the use of <a idref="topics-twohandedweapons">two hands</a> in combat.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>Special Items are any items which are not <a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Items</a>, <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> or <a idref="topics-currency">currency</a> (e.g. <a idref="topics-goldcrown">Gold Crowns</a>). In Books 1&endash;7 of the Lone Wolf series, there is no stated maximum on how many Special Items you may carry. From Book 8 onwards, the maximum number you may carry is twelve. You may, if you wish, follow this rule prior to Book 8.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-sword">Sword</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand)</p></dd>
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- <dt><a id="topics-tarama">Tarama</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>) The seeds of this plant are highly sought after by those trained in the magical arts. Swallowing a single seed prior to the working of a spell will allow it to be cast without loss of <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a>. These benefits do not apply to the use of <a idref="topics-willpower"><typ class="attribute">WILLPOWER</typ></a> to charge a Wizard's Staff in combat although they do help when making long distance attacks.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-tinderbox">Tinderbox</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) You must possess this item to light a <a idref="topics-torch">Torch</a>.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-torch">Torch</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-backpack">Backpack Item</a>) You must possess a <a idref="topics-tinderbox">Tinderbox</a> in order to light a Torch.</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-twohandedweapons">Two-handed Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p>An off-handed reference in <cite><a href="&link.10tdot;">The Dungeons of Torgar</a></cite>: Section 304 lists <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> which can be used in combat with one hand. This topic is dealt with more directly in the Grand Master series (e.g. <cite><a href="&link.13tplor;">The Plague Lords of Ruel</a></cite>: Section 295). Those not on the list <a idref="topics-broadsword">Broadsword</a>, <a idref="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a> and <a idref="topics-spear">Spear</a> require the use of two hands during combat. Optionally, you may decide that this means that you cannot also use a <a idref="topics-shield">Shield</a> at the same time as these two-handed <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a>.</p></dd>
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- <dt><a id="topics-warhammer">Warhammer</a></dt>
- <dd><p>(<a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> carried in the hand)</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-weapons">Weapons</a></dt>
- <dd><p>You carry Weapons in your hands, therefore you may only carry two. The Weapons in which the Kai Lords specialize are the <a idref="topics-dagger">Dagger</a>, <a idref="topics-spear">Spear</a>, <a idref="topics-mace">Mace</a>, <a idref="topics-shortsword">Short Sword</a>, <a idref="topics-warhammer">Warhammer</a>, <a idref="topics-sword">Sword</a>, <a idref="topics-axe">Axe</a>, <a idref="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a>, <a idref="topics-broadsword">Broadsword</a> and <a idref="topics-bow">Bow</a>. (see <a idref="topics-weaponlikespecialitems">Weapon-like Special Items</a>)</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-weaponlikespecialitems">Weapon-like Special Items</a></dt>
- <dd><p>This is a class of <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Items</a> that may be used as a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a>. They aren't counted toward your maximum of two <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapons</a> carried but rather count as a <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a>. A weapon-like <a idref="topics-specialitems">Special Item</a> is used as a <a idref="topics-weapons">Weapon</a> of its same type (e.g. the <a idref="topics-daggerofvashna">Dagger of Vashna</a> is used like a <a idref="topics-dagger">Dagger</a>).</p></dd>
- <dt><a id="topics-willpower">Willpower</a></dt>
- <dt><a id="topics-wizardsstaff">Wizard's Staff</a></dt>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="appa">
- <meta><title>Appendix A: Example Random Number Table</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="appb">
- <meta><title>Appendix B: Example Combat Results Table</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="appc">
- <meta><title>Appendix C: Example Combat</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The following is an example of a simple combat to show how it works in general and to supplement the example given in the Rules for Combat section of the books. This example is taken from <a href="&link.01fftd;"><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite></a>: Section 229.</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf has a base <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> score of 15. He has an <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score of 23. He has the Discipline of Mindblast which adds 2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points to his base score (as long as his enemy isn't immune to Mindblast). He has mastered the Discipline of Weaponskill with the <a idref="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a>. He is carrying an <a idref="topics-axe">Axe</a> and a <a idref="topics-mace">Mace</a>.</p>
- <p>He is in combat with a Kraan who isn't immune to Mindblast, so he adds 2 <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points to his score (15 + 2 = 17). He isn't carrying a <a idref="topics-quarterstaff">Quarterstaff</a> (the <a idref="topics-weapons">weapon</a> in which he has Weaponskill so he doesn't benefit his Weaponskill mastery. He must reduce his <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> by 1 due to dust mentioned in the book (17 - 1 = 16).</p>
- <p>Lone Wolf's opponent&emdash;a Kraan&emdash;has a <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> of 16 so the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> is 0 (16 - 16 = 0). The Kraan has an <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> of 25.</p>
- <p>Combat begins by picking a random number which is traditionally done using the <a idref="topics-randomnumbertable">Random Number Table</a>, but there a other ways available. The first random number picked is 6. Looking that up on the <a idref="topics-combatresultstable">Combat Results Table</a> by finding the <a idref="topics-combatratio">Combat Ratio</a> (0) at the top and cross-referencing it with the random number (6) along the side. In this case, we find that Lone Wolf has lost 2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points and the Kraan has lost 8. Now Lone Wolf has 21 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points (23 - 2 = 21) and the Kraan has 17 (25 - 8 = 17). Lone Wolf and his opponent continue with these new, reduced <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point scores.</p>
- <p>Combat continues by picking another random number: 5. During this round, Lone Wolf loses another 2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points while the Kraan loses 7. Lone Wolf now has an <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score of 19 (21 - 2 = 19) and the Kraan has 10 (17 - 7 = 10). The situation looks good for Lone Wolf.</p>
- <p>The random number picked for the next round is 1&emdash;not a great round for Lone Wolf. He loses 4 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points while the Kraan loses only 3. Lone Wolf is left with 15 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points (19 - 4 = 15) and the Kraan has 7 (10 - 3 = 7).</p>
- <p>Another random number is picked: 7. This time Lone Wolf loses 2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points leaving him with 13 (15 - 2 = 13) and the Kraan loses 9 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points leaving him with -2 (7 - 9 = -2). Since the Kraan has an <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> score that is <a idref="topics-negativenumbers">less than or equal to 0</a>, it is dead and Lone Wolf wins the combat and can continue his quest. If Lone Wolf's score had been reduced to <a idref="topics-negativenumbers">0 or below</a>, his quest would now be over.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="appd">
- <meta><title>Appendix D: Lone Wolf Club Newsletter Excerpts</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <dl class="paragraphed">
- <dt><a id="lwcn1986summer">Summer Special 1986</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] On page 26 of Grey Star Book 2, it says you <quote>carry a maximum of eight items in your Herb Pouch</quote>&emdash;should it be six?</p>
- <p>[A:] Actually, the rule which first appeared in Grey Star Book 1 regarding the herb Pouch was incorrect. It should be able to hold up to eight itmes hence the changed rule in later books.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt>Newsletter No. 6</dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] In the sewers beneath Tekaro, I lost my weapon to the grasp of a certain killer organism&emdash;that weapon was the Sommerswerd!&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Strictly speaking, the Sommerswerd is a Special Item&emdash;not a weapon. When facing the organism (Ref. 4) you should erase a weapon from your Action Chart. If you do not possess a weapon, only then do you lose the Sommerswerd.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn7">Newsletter No. 7</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] Is the <quote>Dagger of Vashna</quote> Taken from the Bandit Leader Barraka at the Maakengorge, usable as a weapon?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Yes, if you possess this Special Item you may use it as an ordinary dagger in combat. Kai Masters may find it interesting to note for future use that the Dagger of Vashna could prove to be a valuable piece of equipment to take with them on the quest for the Lorestone of Tahou in Lone Wolf Book 9&emdash;<quote>The Cauldron of Fear</quote>&ellips;you have been warned!</p>
- <p>[Q:] Can you keep Backpack Items in [safekeeping] at the Kai Monastery?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Yes if you wish to leave any surviving Backpack tems in [safekeeping] at the end of an adventure, you can do so. When beginning the next quest, you are given a selection of new equipment which you may then supplement with any of the items you previously held. Many readers have written to point out that they now have a huge selection of Special Items discovered during the course of their adventures and that carrying all these goodies seems a little unrealistic. In response to theis valid point, a new rule comes into effect in Lone Wolf 8, limiting the number of Special Items you can carry. The new limit is 12 Special Items; all others you may have must be left in safe keeping. A tip to all Kai Masters&emdash;don't take you full quota of 12 items with you when youbegin the adventure; leave enough room for any you may find en route otherwise you will have to sacrifice some in favour of others. The recommended number to start with is eight. Also, purely for the sake of accuracy, the term <quote>safe keeping at the Kai Monastery</quote> in fact means leaving some items with the Elder Magi in Elzian, which features as Lone Wolf's base of operations during the Magnakai Quest.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn1987newyears">1987 New Year's Special</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:]Is there a ranking system for Shianti Wizards, like there is for Kai Lords and Masters?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] No, unlike the ranking system that marks the rise of Kai Lords, the Shianti do not have set levels of advancement.</p>
- <p>[Q:] On reaching the rank of Primate and having mastered Weaponmastery, would this enable you to be skilled in four weapons and increase the points added to your <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> to +4 when entering combat with a wepon you have mastered?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] For every adventure you complete in the Magnakai series, assuming you have the mastery of Weaponmastery, you gain proficiency in the use of one new weapon. The bonus to your [<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>] rating for use of this weapon is combat always remains at +3.</p>
- <p>[Q:] Are you allowed to drop a weapon, or must you wait until the end of the book?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] You can drop ([i.e.] discard) a weapon at any time during your adventure, you need not wait until the end of the book. If you find a weapon during the adventure (it will be marked in the text with a capital letter, like a Backpack Item) you may pick it up and use it. You can only carry two weapons at any time.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn8">Newsletter No. 8</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] If Lone Wolf has Weaponskill & Weaponmastery with the same weapon, does this give him +3 or +5 extra <a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a> points in battle? Also, if he has Healing as well as Curing, does this give him +2 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points back for every section through which he passes without combat?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] The correct weapon bonus is +3, on higher than the basic Kai Discipline bonus for having Weaponskill. Kai Mastery of Curing gives the same +1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point back (for every section though which you pass without combat) as does the basic Kai Discipline of Healing. The mastery advantage comes with the ability to cure disease, blindness and combat wounds, as well as being able to identify the properties of herbs, roots, and potions. Additional advantages are gained at higher rank as the Magnakai [Discipline] improves.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn1987summer">Summer Special 1987</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] In Lone Wolf Book 8, ref. no. 169, you <quote>lose a grip of your weapon</quote>. Can you retrieve it or must it be erased from you Action Chart?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] If you win the combat against the Vordak you are able to retrieve the weapon and keep it noted on your Action Chart.</p>
- <p>[Q:] When you complete a Lone Wolf adventure, do you renew your <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points to their original total for the next adventure?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] All lost [<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>] points are regained at the end of an adventure. If you have completed any new Lore-circles by finishing an adventure successfully, the bonuses you gain to your [<a idref="topics-combatskill"><typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ></a>] and [<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>] are added to this basic score prior to the next adventure.</p>
- <p>[Q:] In the basic series (Books 1-5) I possessed the Kai Discipline of Healing and was able to restore 1 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> point for every section I passed through in which I was not involved in combat. Now that I am a Kai Master with the Magnakai Discipline of Curing I can no longer benefit from my basic healing skills&ellips; or can I?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] If you have completed all five of the Basic series books you can add +1 [<a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a>] as per the rules of Healing. This advantage will benefit all those Kai Masters who have completed the basic series books prior to tackling the Magnakai Series.</p>
- <p>[Q:] When I was captured in Book 9, All my weapons were taken from me. Can I retrieve them at the end of the book?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Yes. The South Gate Guard would definately allow the <quote>Saviour of Tahou</quote> to have his weapons back!</p>
- <p>[Q:] In some books you can choose Fireseeds at the start. It says 3 Fireseeds&emdash;if you take all three does this mean you have taken 3 [separate] items from the 5 you are allowed to pick?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] The Fireseeds are Special Items which count only as 1 item no matter how many of them you possess. However, when you use them be sure to note how many you have left. Also, for the purpose of determining your maximum number of Special Items (12), all Fireseeds count as 1 item.</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn10">Newsletter No. 10</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] If, in a Magnakai adventure, we are instructed to eat a Meal (or lose 3 <a idref="topics-endurance"><typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ></a> points) and we do not have the Magnakai skill of Huntmastery, can we still use the basic skill of Hunting (assuming we're not in a desert or wilderness), [e.g.] Book 8; ref. 129?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Basically, yes you can. All [Kai Masters] who have completed one or more of the Lone Wolf <quote>basic</quote> books (1&endash;5) can benefit from their experience in this way. This will give them a real advantage over those who have tried only one or more of the Magnakai series books (6&endash;12).</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn12">Newsletter No. 12</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] If you find a new Backpack in one of the adventures, can you use it to hold an additional 8 items as well as those you already have?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Realistically, you can only wear one [Backpack] at a time, and carry a maximum of eight [Backpack] items ([Special Items] not included). Carrying two [Backpacks], and 16 [Backpack Items], would make close combat very difficult indeed, even for a Kai Master. (<em>Note: This aspect of the Lone Wolf rules influenced the progressive [encumbrance] rule of the Freeway Warrior series</em>)</p>
- </dd>
- <dt><a id="lwcn28">Newsletter No. 28</a></dt>
- <dd>
- <p>[Q:] Can you clarify what happens to the +1EP bonus when you progress from Kai Master to Grand Master?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] The [+1EP] bonus gained when passing through combatless sections does still apply, but only if you have played and survived the Magnakai series books. Joe Dever intended this as a <quote>hidden loyalty bonus</quote> for readers who had played the earlier books, which is why it was ommitted from the Grand Master rules.</p>
- <p>[Q:] If a person keeps the +4CS Weaponmastery ability from one series to the next, does that mean that when he gets Grand Weaponmastery he has +9CS with the weapons he has proficiency in?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] The +4CS Weaponmastery bonus is not added to Grand Weaponmastery&emdash;it simply rises by 1 to +5.</p>
- <p>[Q:] Is the Dagger of Vashna taken from the bandit leader Barraka at the Maakengorge useable as a Weapon?&ellips;</p>
- <p>[A:] Yes, if you possess this Special Item you may use it as an ordinary [Dagger] in combat. It could also prove especially usefull during the quest for the Lorestone of Tahou (Lone Wolf 9).</p>
- </dd>
- </dl>
- </data>
- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="license">
- <meta><title>Aon Project End User License</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>24 May 2001</p>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-pre">
- <meta><title>0. Preamble</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>Joe Dever, author of the Lone Wolf game books, and Ian Page, author of the World of Lone Wolf books are providing certain of their works for free (gratis) download from the internet. Gary Chalk and Brian Williams are similarly offering the illustrations that they did for Joe Dever's books. This license is intended to protect the rights of the authors and the illustrators, the rights of his readers, and the quality of the distributions of the books.</p>
- <p>Basically, by viewing or downloading the books or the illustrations, you agree to refrain from redistributing them in any format for any reason. This is intended to protect readers from getting poor quality, unofficial versions or from being asked for payment in exchange for the books by someone who is redistributing them unofficially.</p>
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- <p><quote>License</quote> shall hereafter refer to this document.</p>
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- <p><quote>Authors</quote> shall hereafter refer to Joe Dever and Ian Page, copyright holders for the literary works covered by this license. Where either Joe Dever or Ian Page are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
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- <meta><title>1.2</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>Illustrator</quote> shall hereafter refer to Gary Chalk, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books one through eight counted inclusively, and Brian Williams, holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of Lone Wolf books nine through twenty-eight counted inclusively with the exception of the illustrations for book twenty-one, <cite>The Voyage of the Moonstone</cite> and holder of the copyrights for the illustrations of books two through four of the Freeway Warrior series. Where either Gary Chalk or Brian Williams are mentioned singly, they will be referred to by name.</p>
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- <p><quote>Internet</quote> shall hereafter refer to any means of transferring information electronically between two or more <quote>Licensees</quote>. (the term <quote>Licensee</quote> is defined in Section 1.5 of the License)</p>
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- <meta><title>1.4</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p><quote>Internet Editions</quote> shall hereafter refer to the document or documents, any parts thereof or derivative works thereof (including translations) made available to the public under the terms of this License via the Internet. The term <quote>Internet Editions</quote> is limited to the electronic transcription of certain text and illustrations by the Authors and Illustrators respectively as listed hereafter.</p>
- <p>The following are the works written by Joe Dever which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
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- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Copyright 1987 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Copyright 1990, 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Copyright 1991, 1993 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Copyright 1992, 1994 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Copyright 1992 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1995 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Copyright 1993, 1996 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>The Magnamund Companion</cite>; Copyright 1986 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Highway Holocaust</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Copyright 1988 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Copyright 1989 Joe Dever.</li>
- </ul>
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- <p>The following are the works written by Ian Page which are being offered under the terms of this license:</p>
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- <ul>
- <li><cite>Grey Star the Wizard</cite>; Copyright 1985 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>The Forbidden City</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>Beyond the Nightmare Gate</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- <li><cite>War of the Wizards</cite>; Copyright 1986 Ian Page.</li>
- </ul>
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- <p>The illustrations created by Gary Chalk of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
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- <ul>
- <li><cite>Flight from the Dark</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Fire on the Water</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Caverns of Kalte</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1984 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Chasm of Doom</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Shadow on the Sand</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Kingdoms of Terror</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1985 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>Castle Death</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1986 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- <li><cite>The Jungle of Horrors</cite>; Illustrations copyright 1987 Joe Dever and Gary Chalk.</li>
- </ul>
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- <p>The illustrations created by Brian Williams of the following books are part of the illustrations being offered under the terms of this License:</p>
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- <ul>
- <li><cite>The Cauldron of Fear</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Dungeons of Torgar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Prisoners of Time</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1987 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Masters of Darkness</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Plague Lords of Ruel</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Captives of Kaag</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1990, 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Darke Crusade</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Legacy of Vashna</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1991, 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Deathlord of Ixia</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Dawn of the Dragons</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1992 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Wolf's Bane</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Curse of Naar</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1993 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Buccaneers of Shadaki</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1994 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Mydnight's Hero</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Rune War</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1995 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Trail of the Wolf</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Fall of Blood Mountain</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1997 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Vampirium</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>The Hunger of Sejanoz</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1998 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: Slaughter Mountain Run</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1988 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: The Omega Zone</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- <li><cite>Freeway Warrior: California Countdown</cite>; Illustrations Copyright 1989 Brian Williams.</li>
- </ul>
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- <meta><title>3. Termination of the License</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-3-0">
- <meta><title>3.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If for any reason you are unable to comply with any of the terms and obligations of this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days after the first violation.</p>
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- <meta><title>3.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>If any of the Authors or the Illustrators revokes your rights granted under this License, you agree to destroy all copies of the Authors' or Illustrators' work which is a part of the Internet Editions of which you have control within fourteen calendar days of receiving notification in any form.</p>
- </data>
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-
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- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4">
- <meta><title>4. Jurisdiction</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-4-0">
- <meta><title>4.0</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>If, in consequence of court judgement or the laws of a particular area, any portion of the License is held as invalid or unenforceable in any particular circumstance, you are no longer granted any rights under the terms of this License in that circumstance. You agree to act in accordance with section 3.0 for all copies of the Internet Editions for which the License is held as invalid or unenforceable as if you had violated the terms and obligations of the License. The License is intended to remain in force in all other circumstances.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5">
- <meta><title>5. Revision of the License</title></meta>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-5-0">
- <meta><title>5.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>The Authors and the Illustrators may publish revisions of this License in the future to address new concerns. Any further revisions will be legally binding at the time that you receive notification in any form of the revision.</p>
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- </section>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6">
- <meta><title>6. NO WARRANTY</title></meta>
-
- <data>
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- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-0">
- <meta><title>6.0</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>BECAUSE THE INTERNET EDITIONS ARE LICENSED FREE OF CHARGE, THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE INTERNET EDITIONS, TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW. EXCEPT WHEN OTHERWISE STATED IN WRITING THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS OR OTHER PARTIES PROVIDE THE INTERNET EDITIONS "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INTERNET EDITIONS PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY REPAIRS.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="backmatter" id="lic-6-1">
- <meta><title>6.1</title></meta>
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- <data>
- <p>IN NO EVENT UNLESS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW OR AGREED TO IN WRITING WILL ANY COPYRIGHT HOLDER OR MAINTAINER BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE INTERNET EDITIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF DATA OR DATA BEING RENDERED INACCURATE OR LOSSES SUSTAINED BY YOU OR THIRD PARTIES OR A FAILURE OF THE INTERNET EDITIONS TO OPERATE WITH ANY PROGRAMS), EVEN IF SUCH HOLDER OR OTHER PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
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- </section>
- </data>
-</section>
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-</gamebook>
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-<!--
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-$Id$
-$Log$
-Revision 1.1 2004/11/10 06:37:11 jonathan.blake
-Initial Freepository revision
-
-
-//// RCS Revision Log ////
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/20 06:24:52 jblake
-Initial revision
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-<meta>
- <title>[Insert Title]</title>
-</meta>
-
-<section id="toc">
- <meta />
- <data />
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-<section id="title">
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- <title>Title Page</title>
- <link class="next" idref="dedicate" />
- </meta>
-
- <data>
-
- <!-- Frontmatter -->
-
-<!--
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Table of Contents</title>
-
-<h2>Table of Contents</h2>
-
-<ul>
-<li><a href="timeline.htm">Magnamund Then and Now</a>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="timeline.htm">The Ages of Magnamund</a></li>
- <li><a href="realmsno.htm">The Realms of Northern Magnamund</a></li>
- <li><a href="realmsso.htm">The Realms of Southern Magnamund</a></li>
- </ul>
-<li><a href="nations.htm">The Nations of Magnamund</a>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="nations.htm">The Races of Magnamund</a></li>
- <li><a href="vaderish.htm">The Vaderish/Aluvian Nations</a></li>
- <li><a href="nael.htm">The Nael/Nael-Aluvian Nations</a></li>
- <li><a href="lastland.htm">The Lastlander/Old Kingdom Nations</a></li>
- <li><a href="mythensh.htm">The Mythenish/Tianese Nations</a></li>
- <li><a href="vassa.htm">The Vassa Nations</a></li>
- <li><a href="drakkar.htm">The Drakkarim/Agarashi Nations</a></li>
- <li><a href="primtive.htm">The Primitive/Drodarin Nations</a></li>
- </ul>
-</li>
-<li><a href="drklords.htm">The Darklords</a>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="drklords.htm">The Creatures of Helgedad</a></li>
- <li><a href="darkhist.htm">The History of the Darklords</a></li>
- <li><a href="darkpwr.htm">The Fighting Power of the Darklords</a></li>
- </ul>
-</li>
-<li><a href="kai.htm">The Kai Lords</a></li>
-<li><a href="ragadorn.htm">Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</a>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="ragadorn.htm">Introduction & Setting-up</a></li>
- <li><a href="ragrulz.htm">Rules (Part I)</a></li>
- <li><a href="ragrulz2.htm">Rules (Part <span class="caps">II</span>)</a></li>
- <li><a href="ragrulz3.htm">Rules (Part <span class="caps">III</span>)</a></li>
- <li><a href="ragsmmry.htm">Rules Summary</a></li>
- <li><a href="ragchrt.htm">Ragadorn Tavern Game Characters</a></li>
- </ul>
-</li>
-<li><a href="sommrlnd.htm">Sommerlund</a></li>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="sommrlnd.htm">The Royal Estates, Fryelund and Baronial Provinces</a></li>
- <li><a href="sommsaga.htm">The Saga of Sommerlund</a></li>
- <li><a href="faldon.htm">Lorin Faldon - Young Archer</a></li>
- <li><a href="rolny.htm">Aran Rolny - Young Scribe</a></li>
- <li><a href="taynor.htm">Jac Taynor - Farmer's Son</a></li>
- <li><a href="sommwarr.htm">The Warriors of Sommerlund</a></li>
- </ul>
-</li>
-<li><a href="giaks.htm">Giaks</a>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="giaks.htm">The Giak Army</a></li>
- <li><a href="giaklang.htm">The Giak Language</a></li>
- <li><a href="giakword.htm">Giak Word List</a></li>
- <li><a href="giakspek.htm">Zegor Jok Dak Eg</a></li>
- </ul>
-</li>
-<li><a href="modling.htm">Modelling Magnamund</a>
- <ul>
- <li><a href="modling.htm">The Kai Monastery</a></li>
- <li><a href="skyrider.htm">The Skyrider</a></li>
- <li><a href="fntsyflt.htm">Fantasy Fleets</a></li>
- </ul>
-</li>
-<li><a href="dod.htm">Dawn of the Darklords</a>
-
-[numbered sections]
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The History of the Darklords</title>
-
-<h2>The Darklords</h2>
-
-<h3>The History of the Darklords</h3>
-
-<p>Once there were twenty Darklords, each unique and very powerful and each with a 'court' of followers drawn from the ranks of the Nadziranim and Xaghash. The most powerful lord was Vashna. He masterminded the War of Desecration that bent the Drakkarim nations to his cause. In the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 3192, he was proclaimed Archlord of the Darklands. He then ordered the construction of eight gigantic fortress-cities.</p>
-
-<p>In <span class="caps">MS</span> 3262, Vashna began the construction of Helgedad, the mightiest Darklord city. Perched upon an island of granite at the centre of a huge volcanic chasm, it claimed the lives of one million Giak slaves during the many years it took to build its walls, towers and turrets of black steel. A bridge of twisted steel now spans the fiery chasm joining Helgedad to the desolate plain of the Naogizaga where craters of molten rock belch forth a black gas that keeps the city forever in shadow.</p>
-
-<p>Beneath the towers and the streets of iron, are many dungeons that descend through solid rock towards the blazing chasm floor. Here lie the breeding pits of a host of Vashna's evil creations. Vordaks, Doomwolves and Kraan emerged from these terrible halls to swell the Darklord armies, securing victory after victory in the incessant wars of expansion. But victory turned sour when a new breed of warriors appeared from the Northern Void. For the very first time, Vashna tasted defeat at the hands of mortal men called Sommlending; his armies were ejected from the Lastlands and held at bay along the Durncrag Ranqe. The Sommlending, under their leader King Kian, established the land of Sommerlund within this captured territory and defied all attempts to recapture it. Vashna was enraged.</p>
-
-<p>He vowed to destroy Sommerlund and its king, and set about the creation of a new evil to unleash upon his enemies. His efforts spawned the Helghast, undead beings of great power who could adopt the form of humans at will. They were used to great effect during the Helghast Wars (<span class="caps">MS</span> 3520-50), but the strength and resolve of the Sommlending finally overcame them. The magicians of Toran identified them, and using the Sommerswerd, a sword of great magical power wielded by their king, drove them out of the land. This sword then brought about the destruction of Vashna himself, at the Great Battle of Maakengorge, where, upon the edge of the chasm of doom, King Ulnar I slew and in turn was slain by the evil Darklord.</p>
-
-<p>After Vashna's death, chaos errupted in Helgedad as the Darklords struggled between themselves, to win supreme control. In order to increase their personal strength, many Darklords undertook a quest to discover the lost Doomstones of Agarash the Damned, for with these gems of power they could dominate Helgedad and force their peers to proclaim them Arch-lord of the Darklands. The Doomstone quest was eventually completed and one Darklord emerged to claim the throne. His name was Zagarna, and he, like his former master Vashna, pledged himself to the complete destruction of Sommerlund. He exercised his new-found power by launching an attack on the monastery of the Kai. But the invasion was defeated by the superiority of the Sommlending archers. Frustrated but undeterred, Zagarna focused his attentions upon other human nations. He planted agents throughout the royal courts of the Stornlands and used them to maintain a state of conflict. Elsewhere, his Nadziranim were engaged in a quest for magical items and tomes of wisdom that were lost following the decimation of the Elder Magi in the Great Plague of 2514 <span class="caps">MS</span>.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Fighting Power of the Darklords</title>
-
-<h2>The Darklords</h2>
-
-<h3>The Fighting Power of the Darklords</h3>
-
-<p>Darklord Zagarna, who had emerged supreme after the completion of the Doomstone quest, soon turned his attention to creating an arsenal of terrible weapons. With them, he aided the Vassagonian and Shadakine empires and shared in the spoils of their conquests. He forged staves of power and harnessed blue lightning within their twisted black steel shafts. Explosive crystals, great swords of iron and flame, daggers with magical blades, and poisoned spikes that always found their mark were among the many cruel arms fashioned by Zagarna in preparation for the fulfilment of his one overwhelming desire - the invasion and conquest of Sommerlund. In <span class="caps">MS</span> 4950, he ordered the construction of fortresses in the Durncrag Range; they were to serve as marshalling posts for his Giak armies and as bases for agents and spies operating within Sommerlund. Carefully, he built up his armies, taking great pains to hide their numbers and movements from the prying eyes of Sommlending Border Rangers.</p>
-
-<p>It was early in the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 5050 that fate presented the ideal opportunity for Zagarna's invasion, when a Sommlending magician named Vonotar betrayed his country in return for Nadziranim magic and weapons. His treachery brought about the near total destruction of the Kai lords, but it did not secure victory for Darklord Zagarna, who was destined to perish during the siege of Holmgard.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Dawn of the Darklords</title>
-
-<h2>Dawn Of The Darklords</h2>
-<h3>A Solo Role-Playing Adventure Game</h3>
-
-<h3>The Story So Far...</h3>
-
-<p>You are Banedon, a young journeyman to the Magicians Guild of Toran in Sommerlund. In the last two weeks disturbing events have rocked the stability of your guild. A brother magician named Vonotar denounced the Guild and murdered one of the Elders. He disappeared after the crime and your Guildmaster fears that he has fled to Helgedad to aid the Darklords.</p>
-
-<p>It is now dawn of the day before the feast of Fehmarn. You have been summoned to the Guildmaster's chamber and entrusted with an envelope that must be taken to the Monastery of the Kai. It contains an urgent message for the Kai Grand Master, and your mission is to deliver it by hand at all costs. The Guildmaster warns you to be on your guard at all times, for he fears that enemy agents are already at work within the land. 'Travel swiftly, my son,' he says, as you turn to leave his chamber, 'and may the luck of the Gods go with you.'</p>
-
-<h3>The Game Rules</h3>
-
-<p>To keep a record of your adventure, use the <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a> below. Before you start you must determine your fighting prowess (Combat Skill) and physical stamina (Endurance). To do this take a pencil and, with your eyes closed, point with the blunt end of it onto the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a> on the last page of this book. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</p>
-
-<p>The first number that you pick in this way represents your Combat Skill. Add 10 to this number and write the total in the Combat Skill section of your <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
-<p>The second number that you pick from the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a> represents your powers of Endurance. Add 20 to this number and write the total in the Endurance section of your <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
-<p>If you are wounded in combat, or if you use any of your spells, you will lose Endurance points. If at any time your Endurance points fall to zero, you are dead and the adventure is over.</p>
-
-<h4>Magical Powers</h4>
-
-<p>You have mastered only five of the ten spells that the Magicians Guild call the 'Brotherhood Spells'.</p>
-
-<p>When you have chosen your five spells, enter them in the 'Spells' section of your <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
-<dl>
-<dt>Lightning Hand</dt>
-<dd>This spell enables you to cast a bolt of lightning, simply by pointing a finger and concentrating upon the spell. Every time this spell is used you must deduct 3 from your Endurance points total.</dd>
-<dt>Mind Charm</dt>
-<dd>Casting this spell upon a person (or creature) will cause that person to regard you as a trusted friend. It will not allow you to control the person, but anything you do or say will be looked on as friendly.</dd>
-<dt>Invisible Shield</dt>
-<dd>When this spell is cast, an invisible barrier will form as protection from missiles and enemies. However, it will not protect you from magical attacks, and every time it is used you must deduct 2 Endurance points from your score.</dd>
-<dt>Net</dt>
-<dd>This spell enables you to cast a web-like net of magical rope at a chosen target. It can be used to ensnare an enemy, or to enable you to climb high walls or obstacles with ease.</dd>
-<dt>Vigour</dt>
-<dd>Casting this spell will increase your Combat Skill by 3 points for the duration of one combat, at the cost of 3 Endurance points. It cannot be used if your Endurance points total is below 10.</dd>
-<dt>Counterspell</dt>
-<dd>This spell may be used to protect yourself, or another person or object of your choice, from a magical attack. Use of this spell costs 2 Endurance points.</dd>
-<dt>Levitation</dt>
-<dd>This spell may be cast upon yourself, or upon another person or object, to cancel the effects of gravity, and thereby make the affected object rise into the air. The spell lasts no more than a few minutes and its usage costs 2 Endurance points.</dd>
-<dt>Sense Evil</dt>
-<dd>When this spell is cast it will enable you to detect the presence of evil in any creature or object close by. However, perils such as traps or naturally poisonous animals will not be detected through the use of this spell.</dd>
-<dt>Mend</dt>
-<dd>This spell can be used to repair damaged items or to restore lost Endurance points. In order for the spell to work, you must be standing in fresh running water, such as a river or stream, when the spell is cast. Using this spell upon yourself will restore 5 Endurance points.</dd>
-<dt>Silence</dt>
-<dd>Casting this spell will muffle the sound of any movement that you make.</dd>
-</dl>
-
-<h4>Equipment</h4>
-
-<p>You wear a Crystal Star Pendant (Special Item). Before leaving the Guildhall, you are given an envelope that contains the Guildmaster's message to the Kai (Special Item), and a pouch of gold. To find out how much gold is in the pouch, pick a number from the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a>. Now add 10 to this number. The total equals the number of Gold Crowns inside the pouch, and you may now enter this number in the Gold Crowns section of your <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>. The message is carried inside your robe, and you are given a backpack in which to carry any four of the following items:</p>
-
-<ul>
-<li>Blanket (Backpack Item)</li>
-<li>Healing Potion (Backpack Item) This potion restores 2 points to your total when swallowed after combat. There is enough for one dose.</li>
-<li>Rope (Backpack Item)</li>
-<li>Torch (Backpack Item)</li>
-<li>2 Meals (Backpack Items) Each Meal takes up one space in your Backpack.</li>
-<li>Tinderbox (Backpack Item)</li>
-<li>Bottle Of Wine (Backpack Item)</li>
-</ul>
-
-<p>You also possess a Short Sword (Weapon) which you carry in a scabbard.</p>
-
-<h5>Using Your Equipment</h5>
-
-<dl>
-<dt>Weapons</dt>
-<dd>If you enter a combat with no weapons, deduct 4 points from your Combat Skill and fight with your bare hands. If you find a weapon during the adventure, you may pick it up and use it. The maximum number of weapons that you may carry is two.</dd>
-<dt>Backpack Items</dt>
-<dd>You may discover various useful items which you may wish to keep. You may exchange or discard them at any point when you are not involved in combat. Your Backpack can carry a maximum of eight articles (including Meals).</dd>
-<dt>Special Items</dt>
-<dd>When you discover a Special Item, you will be told how to carry it.</dd>
-<dt>Gold Crowns</dt>
-<dd>These are carried in your pouch (maximum 50 Crowns).</dd>
-<dt>Food</dt>
-<dd>Each Meal counts as one backpack item. If you do not have any food when you are instructed to eat, you will lose 3 Endurance points.</dd>
-</dl>
-
-<h4>Rules For Combat</h4>
-
-<p>There will be occasions during your adventure when you have to fight an enemy. The enemy's Combat Skill and Endurance points are given in the text. Your aim during the combat is to kill the enemy by reducing his Endurance points to zero while at the same time losing as few Endurance points as possible yourself.</p>
-
-<p>At the start of a combat, enter your Endurance points and the enemy's Endurance points in the appropriate boxes on the Combat Record section of the <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>.</p>
-
-<p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Add any extra points gained through the use of Special Items or spells to your current Combat Skill total.</li>
-<li>Subtract the Combat Skill of your enemy from this total. The result is your Combat Ratio. Enter it on the <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>.</li>
-<li>When you have your Combat Ratio, pick a number from the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
-<li>Turn to the Combat Results Table on page 96. Along the top of the chart are shown the Combat Ratio numbers. Find the number that is the same as your Combat Ratio and cross-reference it with the random number you have picked (the random numbers appear on the side of the chart). You now have the number of Endurance points lost by both Banedon and his adversary in this round of combat.</li>
-<li>On the <a href="action.htm">Action Chart</a>, mark the changes in Endurance points to both participants in the combat.</li>
-<li>Unless otherwise instructed, or unless you have an option to evade, the next round of combat now starts.</li>
-<li>Repeat the sequence from Stage 3.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>This process of combat continues until the Endurance points of either the enemy or Banedon are reduced to zero, at which point the one with a zero score is declared dead. If Banedon is dead, the adventure is over. If the enemy is dead, Banedon proceeds but with his Endurance points reduced.</p>
-
-<h5>Evasion of Combat</h5>
-
-<p>You may only evade if the text allows you to.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Drakkarim/Agarashi Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Drakkarim/Agarashi Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Danarg</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Unknown
-<br />Capital: No major settlements
-<br />Population: 50,000 +
-<br />Resources: Undeveloped
-<br />Currency: None
-<p>This vast tract of forest swamp lies in the crater of an ancient volcano, and is fed by the many rivers and streams that flow down from the encircling hills and mountains. Ferocious monsters, the legacy of the Agarashi empire, control the swamp and occasionally raid the freelands of Talestria. It is said that the lost temple of the Elder Magi still stands at the heart of the Danarg, but as yet these rumours have not been confirmed.</p>
-
-<h4>Ghatan</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Darklord Dakushna of Kagorst
-<br />Capital: Torgar
-<br />Population: 25,000 +
-<br />Resources: Sulphur, slave labour
-<br />Currency: Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>The hills of Ghatan have harboured creatures of evil since the dark days of the Agarashi empire. Nothing grows in the sulphurous soil, except for the twisted trees that border upon the source of the Hellswamp. In <span class="caps">MS</span> 2801, Ghatan was overrun by the Drakkarim who, in the midst of this desolation, constructed the city of Torgar for the grim purpose of imprisoning and torturing their enemies. In <span class="caps">MS</span> 3150, when the Drakkarim allied themselves to the Darklords, Torgar came under Darklord control.</p>
-
-<h4>Ixia - The Land of the Dead</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Lord Ixiataaga
-<br />Capital: Xaagon
-<br />Population: Number unknown
-<br />Resources: Rare minerals
-<br />Currency: No system of currency
-<p>The peninsula of Ixia is an icy, desolate wasteland, lit by the lightning flashes of electrical storms that rage constantly above its bleak mountain peaks. Lord Ixiataaga, Masterlord of the Dead, has reigned over this terrible place for more than ten thousand years. The city of Xaagon is the seat of his power, its undead inhabitants, condemned to an eternity in his service. It is some measure of his power that even the Darklords of Helgedad fear to trespass in his realm.</p>
-
-<h4>Hardlands - The Tadatizaga</h4>
-<p>Ruler: The Shog'aash of Lake Ghargon
-<br />Capital: Unknown
-<br />Population: 260,000
-<br />Resources: Black iron ore, minerals
-<br />Currency: None
-<p>For centuries the hellish landscape of the Tadatizaga has repelled all but the hardiest of creatures. The sky is dark and the blizzard-swept hills and poisonous vegetation encourage the monstrous inhabitants to remain in their lairs underground. In the midnight depths of the black, cold waters of Lake Ghargon lives the Shog'aash, an evil sea dragon of immense size. It swims supreme having devoured all potential rivals long ago. Occasionally it ventures onto land to terrorize the inhabitants of Gournen, a Darklord city built upon the edge of Lake Ghargon.</p>
-
-<h4>The Dark Realm of Skaror</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Darklord Kraagenskul of Helgedad
-<br />Capital: Cragmantel
-<br />Population: 38,000
-<br />Resources: Slave labour, timber, iron ore, copper
-<br />Currency: Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Helotry of Nyraz</h4>
-<p>Ruler: High Warlord Magnaarn of Darke
-<br />Capital: Darke
-<br />Population: 55,000 +
-<br />Resources: Shipbuilding, timber, slaves, agriculture
-<br />Currency: Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Helotry of Nyvoz</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Darklord Dakushna of Kagorst
-<br />Capital: Kagorst
-<br />Population: 75,000
-<br />Resources: Timber, slave labour
-<br />Currency: Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Darklordship of Zaldir</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Darklord Gnaag of Mozgoar
-<br />Capital: Shpydar
-<br />Population: 26,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, timber, copper, slave labour
-<br />Currency: Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>Swamp of Maakenmire</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Unknown
-<br />Capital: V'ka
-<br />Population: Unknown
-<br />Resources: Undeveloped
-<br />Currency: No system of currency</p>
-
-<h4>The Infernal Hellswamp</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Swamplord Vag'kroag
-<br />Capital: Unknown
-<br />Population: Unknown
-<br />Resources: Rare herbs, rare minerals
-<br />Currency: None</p>
-
-<h4>The Bandit Domain of the Hammerlands</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Baron Shinzar
-<br />Capital: Blackshroud
-<br />Population: 62,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, rare minerals, gems, mercenaries
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown) Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Helotry of Ogia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Warchief Zegron
-<br />Capital: Xanar
-<br />Population: 42,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, silver, bronin, mercenaries, slaves
-<br />Currency: Kika (10 Kika = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Doomlands of Naaros</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Unknown
-<br />Capital: Naaros (destroyed)
-<br />Population: Unknown
-<br />Resources: Mostly destroyed
-<br />Currency: None</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Darklords</title>
-
-<h2>The Darklords</h2>
-
-<p>During the Golden Age of the Shianti, Naar, the King of the Darkness, set about creating new and powerful servants to champion his cause and to reconquer the empire that was lost with the destruction of Naaros. Drawing upon the awesome power of his domain, he fashioned a race of supernatural creatures who were to become his generals in a war to end all wars. These terrible creatures were the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
-
-<h3>The Creatures of Helgedad</h3>
-
-<h4>Helghast</h4>
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Darklord Vashna originally bred the Helghast for the wars against the Sommlending. They are powerful, undead creatures who can adopt human form at will. This, coupled with their invulnerability to normal weapons, makes them ideally suited to missions of spying and assassination. They have greatly furthered the Darklord cause by the subversion of countries in Northern and Southern Magnamund.</p>
-
-<h4>Vordak</h4>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Vordaks were the first undead to be summoned and controlled during Vashna's early experiments in the laboratories of Helgedad. Their skeletal bodies were formed around crystals of power called 'Vordak gems', and when they are destroyed they revert back to this crystal state. They possess strong psychic powers and often act as lieutenants in Darklord armies to control Drakkarim regiments.</p>
-
-<h4>Zlanbeast/Kraan</h4>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Bred in the pits of Heigedad, the Zlanbeast, and their smaller sub-species the Kraan, were created as flying mounts for Darklord and Nadziranim commanders. Fed on the meat of Szalls and swamp Giaks, these creatures are strong and fierce, and enable the Darklords to travel with great speed. Vashna mustered a vast number to invade Sommerlund, and it was their air assault that destroyed the monastery of the Kai.</p>
-
-<h4>Crypt Spawn</h4>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>These winged, brain-like creatures can be summoned by all Darklords from the plane of existence occupied by their master, Naar. They are as hideous as they are powerful, and are often used to guard Darklord chambers, tombs and treasures. Darklords can use a flood of Crypt Spawn to attack and overwhelm an enemy, or set a plague of them upon a land to despoil livestock and crops and create mayhem.</p>
-
-<h4>Doomwolves</h4>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Larger and fiercer than the mountain wolves of Northern Magnamund, the Doomwolves were first bred in Helgedad to serve as mounts for Giak officers. They were hardy and quick to multiply in the wolf pens of the Black City, and were soon commonplace in every Darkland fortress. Large units of Doomwolves are employed to carry Giak lancers into battle, and as mounts for scouts and messengers.</p>
-
-<h4>Xaghash</h4>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Although among the weakest of the lesser-Darklords, Xaghash are powerful creatures. They are always involved in complex schemes and court intrigues in attempts to ascend their evil hierarchy. To maintain their physical strength, they must devour warm-blooded creatures (preferably humans), and many of the attacks launched from the Darklands are raids to gather 'food' for these loathsome beings.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Lorin Faldon - Yound Archer</title>
-<meta name="robots" content="noindex,nofollow">
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-</head>
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-<div class="title"><img src="title.gif" width="29" height="201" alt="The Magnamund Companion"></div>
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-<div class="body">
-
-
-<h2>Sommerlund</h2>
-
-<h3>Lorin Faldon - Young Archer</h3>
-
-<p>I can remember my first bow, it was given to me by my father on my fifth birthday. He taught me to draw my bow using all my strength, not just my arms. 'Lay your body to the bow, Lorin,' he used to say, as I struggled to hit the stooks in our cornfield. I'd have no trouble hitting them now.</p>
-
-<p>Our lands lie close to the Durncrag Range and at night you can sometimes hear Giaks calling one another in the hills. They are horrible creatures. Once they raided our village and killed our livestock; a cottage was burned down and Vinas the blacksmith was blinded in one eye. We lived in fear of them until the King built the watchtower at Shadow Pass, and Knight Hobar made the villagers train with bows so that they could defend themselves if the Giaks ever returned., I trained every day until I could split a plank at four hundred paces, and I learned to fledge my own arrows with goose feathers.</p>
-
-<p>On my Oathday of Fehmarn, I was sent into service in the household of Knight Hobar. I was taught how to fight with a sword and a mace, but all I really wanted was to use a bow. Eventually, I got my chance. It was mid-summer and a tournament was being held at Thornfalcon market. Knight Hobar granted us permission to attend but ordered: 'All boys must conduct themselves in a manner as befits Sommlending warriors.'</p>
-
-<p>We wore our best white tunics and coats of mail, and held our heads high as we marched into the tournament stands. We had barely taken our seats when my eye fell upon a distant corner of the field. There, beyond the jousters and the tents, was an archery range. The targets were bales of twigs, stacked and cut to look like Giaks, with stunted arms and bow legs. A contest was set to commence. As my brothers shouted and cheered the joust, I sat in silence with my thoughts focused upon that distant range. The temptation was too great; I had to slip away and enter the archery contest myself. I wriggled beneath my seat and jumped down below the stand where I hid my surcoat and mail in a barrel. My shirt was quite plain and with my sleeves rolled up I easily passed for a stable lad or trades boy.</p>
-
-<p>The judges chuckled when I paid my crown, and one even offered to help draw back my bowstring for fear I was too weak to manage it alone. I was given three arrows, and as I entered the field the crowd began to laugh and point their fingers at me. 'Who'll bet on the boy?' cried the umpire. 'Not I,' came the gamblers' unanimous reply. The first three rounds saw an end to the hopes of all but three archers: a cobbler, a woodsman and myself. Again the umpire called for bets, but none would wager gold on me. As my winning arrow hit the mark, the gamblers stopped laughing.</p>
-
-<p>The news quickly spread and so caught up was I in the excitement of my victory that I didn't recognize the face of the man who handed me first prize until I had returned to my brothers at the tournament. He was my lord - Knight Hobar. My heart sank like a stone. To remove one's tunic and mail in a public place is considered dishonourable; I would be punished severely, of that I had no doubt. As I marched hesitantly into the castle keep, the gatehouse guard handed me a parchment. It was a summons to Knight Hobar's chambers. My legs started to shake and oh how I wished for the ground to open and swallow me up! Trembling all over, I knocked upon my master's door and entered.</p>
-
-<p>'Lorin Faldon,' he boomed, 'you were ordered to conduct yourself as befits a warrior of the realm.'</p>
-
-<p>I gritted my teeth and clenched my sweating palms as I awaited his wrath. But to my shocked surprise, he began to laugh.</p>
-
-<p>'Calm yourself, boy,' he said, grinning broadly. 'You're a credit to your village and this household. Never have I seen such natural bowmanship in all my days.'</p>
-
-<p>I could scarcely believe my ears.</p>
-
-<p>'I have need of skilful archers,' he continued, 'especially those who would dare face a taunting crowd and the wrath of their master to prove their worth.'</p>
-
-<p>That night my lord invited me to dine at his table, and the following day he ordered that I join the garrison of the watchtower at Shadow Pass, where my bow skill would be put to good use in the defence of my home and village. Now I am the youngest archer in the army of the King!</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Fantasy Fleets</title>
-
-<h2>Modelling Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>Fantasy Fleets</h3>
-
-<p>The battle between Admiral Calfen's Durenese fleet and Vonotar's death-hulks is the climax of Fire on the Water. Overleaf, you can see part of the action being refought with models. Building fantasy ships is not that difficult - those overleaf were built mainly from card and strip balsa wood.</p>
-
-<p>For a death-hulk or Durenese warship, you will need:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Some mounting card. (Try artists' suppliers for large sheets or picture framers for cheap offcuts.)</li>
-<li>Balsa strip for ships' rails and mouldings on the stern and forecastles. Use balsa block about 2 cms square for the ram on Vonotar's flagship.</li>
-<li>Several pieces of dowel about 1/2 or 3/4 cm in diameter for masts and spars.</li>
-<li>Cartridge or good quality typing paper for sails and, if you want to make several ships, to make a prototype for the various pieces.</li>
-<li>Impact adhesive, e.g. Uhu.</li>
-<li>Ready-made accessories. Anchors, pulleys, etc from model shops. Metal washers make good portholes, and figures like the bolt throwers come from Citadel Miniatures.</li>
-<li>Modelling enamels for painting the ships.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Constructing a Basic Hull</h4>
-
-<p>Using Fig 1 as a guide, draw out the ship's sections using a ruler and set square. These can be cut out and used as a pattern to produce as many identical parts as you need. Use a craft knife to cut the ship sections out of the card, and bend the ship's sides to correspond to the curve of the deck. Then glue the parts together as shown in Fig 2. This basic bull can then be decorated to become either a death hulk or warship. Add a section of dowel midway between the stern and forecastles to create a mast. Fix it in position under the deck with self-hardening modelling clay. Leave to set. Durenese ships should have intact mouldings on their stern and forecastles and smart card deckhouses with an overall bright paint finish. Their bulls are painted dark brown, drybrushed with a little pale khaki; the decks, masts and yards are painted light tan. Death hulks will have suffered damage during their time beneath the waves but don't overdo it. Small, jagged holes can be cut into the sides of the stern and forecastles to look like shattered planking and deckhouses can be made from irregular balsa planks. They should be painted black with dirty, greeny-brown decks, masts and spars. Grey or brown dry-brushing will pick out the texture and make the vessel's shape more apparent. Exposed ironwork should be painted rust brown with vertical streaks leading from it to simulate staining. Mould a lump of modelling clay textured with a pin to resemble seaweed, and paint it green. The evil flagship was made bigger to reflect its importance. It also has a derrick, which swivels round the mast and carries a cage of monsters to drop on unwary opponents. All the ships have sails and flags cut from paper, their designs painted with drawing ink or modelling enamels. The creases, where the sails are glued to the yards, are painted in a darker shade of the sail's basic colour.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Giak Language</title>
-
-<h2>Giaks</h2>
-
-<h3>The Giak Language</h3>
-
-<h4>Giak Gramar</h4>
-
-<p>Giak is a well-developed military language that evolved to meet the needs of inter-racial communication. The language is full of concepts relating to warfare, military construction and hunting: the three main Giak occupations. It is a harsh and guttural language with a limited range of vowel and consonant sounds, but it serves as a common tongue for all the creatures serving the Darklords of Helgedad.</p>
-
-<p>The structure of Giak sentences uses the simple grammar of subject, verb and object, in that order. Any words that modify other words will follow them.</p>
-
-<p>For example, the English sentence: 'The enemy of the Giaks escaped the black doomwolf of the Great Forest.' would be organized in Giak as follows:</p>
-
-<table>
-<tr><td>'Enemy of Giaks</td><td>escape</td><td>doomwolf black of Forest Great.'
-</td></tr>
-<tr><td align="center">(subject)</td><td align="center">(verb)</td><td align="center">(object)</td></tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The simplest form of this sentence is:</p>
-
-<p>'Enemy/escape/doomwolf.'
-<br />(Subject/verb/object)</p>
-
-<p>with the following modifiers:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>The subject 'enemy' is modified by 'Giaks'.</li>
-<li>The verb 'escape' is put into the past tense by using the adverb 'rannad'.</li>
-<li>The object 'doomwolf' is modified by the adjective 'black' and the prepositional phrase 'of Forest Great'.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>This is the basic structure of the Giak language. The following pages contain the most commonly used Giak words.</p>
-
-<h4>Numbers</h4>
-
-<table>
-<tr><td>1</td><td>Aki</td></tr>
-<tr><td>2</td><td>Ig</td></tr>
-<tr><td>3</td><td>Ga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>4</td><td>Rorag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>5</td><td>Ishrak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>6</td><td>Narga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>7</td><td>Na</td></tr>
-<tr><td>8</td><td>Sha</td></tr>
-<tr><td>9</td><td>Shak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>10</td><td>Ishrakig</td></tr>
-<tr><td>11</td><td>Da-aki</td></tr>
-<tr><td>12</td><td>Da-ig</td></tr>
-<tr><td>13</td><td>Da-ga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>14</td><td>Darorag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>15</td><td>Daishrak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>16</td><td>Da-narga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>17</td><td>Da-na</td></tr>
-<tr><td>18</td><td>Da-sha</td></tr>
-<tr><td>19</td><td>Da-shak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>20</td><td>Gogoz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>21</td><td>Gogoz-aki</td></tr>
-</table>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Giaks</title>
-
-<h2>Giaks</h2>
-
-<p>These ferocious fighters, spawned in the dark dungeons of Helgedad, fear their evil masters more greatly than any mortal enemy. For centuries they have served the Darklords, bringing death and destruction to all who dare resist. It is said that on the field of battle there are but few sounds that match the blood-curdling clamour of the Giak war cry: '<span class="caps">SHEGGA</span>-<span class="caps">ASH</span>-<span class="caps">TAAG</span>!'</p>
-
-<h3>The Giak Army</h3>
-
-<p>During the early years of the Age of the Black Moon, the Darklords bred slaves to form the mainstay of their invading armies and for labour in the construction of fortresses and cities within the conquered lands. These slaves were the Giaks, and quickly they became respected as a formidable fighting force.</p>
-
-<p>Under the command of Darklord Vashna, the Giaks built the notorious stronghold of Helgedad, a place that owes its name to the Giak language (Hel = black/gedad = city). Upon its completion, Vashna began breeding new types of Giak in many dreadful spawning pits deep below his infernal city. The fruits of his ghastly labour were a stronger and more fearless breed that could better withstand the hellish heat and poisonous atmospheres of the Darklands. They were small, squat and grey-skinned, with yellow fangs and eyes that could see clearly in the smoky dungeons of Helgedad. Ruthlessly, this new breed, the Mountain Giaks, persecuted the weaker earlier breeds, ruling over them in a society founded on strength, cruelty and fear.</p>
-
-<p>As the Darklords expanded their empire, and as their need for bigger armies increased, the Giaks were used less frequently as slaves. Their society became wholly military, and a well-developed language evolved to fulfil their need for clear communication. In addition to their language, the Giaks are famed for their instinctive sense of order. Their armies are highly disciplined and well organized, with a strong chain of command. It is said that they fear their officers more greatly than any enemy, and this is borne out in many tales of Giak battles. With a strong leader they are fearless foes, but should their leader prove to be weak, or should he fall at a crucial moment, then Giak nerve is swift to break. The soldiers of Sommerlund were quick to realize this weakness during the siege of the Kai Monastery in <span class="caps">MS</span> 4219. By directing their bows against the attacking Giak officers, they succeeded in routing an army that totally outnumbered their own.</p>
-
-<p>The Darklords were gravely worried by this weakness and sought to find leaders for their Giak armies who were less susceptible to arrows. Their search lasted many centuries, but eventually they discovered the ideal creature to lead their Giaks in battle - the Gourgaz. Gourgaz are huge swamp-dwelling reptilians that inhabit the Maakenmire swamp of Eastern Magnamund. Not only are they intelligent and uncannily battle-wise, they also have a special ability that makes them perfect for the role of Giak army leaders. When a Gourgaz engages in combat, it secretes an oil from scent glands that ridge the underside of its tail. This scent is odourless but when it is inhaled by Giaks, a chemical reaction takes place in their blood, stirring them to frenzy and total fearlessness.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Zegor Jok Dak Eg</title>
-
-<h2>Giaks</h2>
-
-<h3>Zegor Jok Dak Eg (How to Speak Giak)</h3>
-
-<p>Now use your Giak grammar and vocabulary to make sentences in Giak.</p>
-
-<p>For example, take the sentence. 'The merchant asked us to guard the treasure.' and rearrange it as explained on p. 68.</p>
-
-<p>You now have: 'Merchant ask (past tense) to guard treasure us.' The basic Giak sentence would be: 'Merchant ask me'. The subject 'merchant' is not modified, but the verb 'ask' is modified by the phrase '(to) guard the treasure', and by being placed in the past tense by the use of the word 'rannad'. The object of the sentence 'I' is modified by adding the plural suffix, 'a'.</p>
-
-<p>A direct translation of this rearranged sentence into Giak reads: 'Kikago jok rannad eg odak kika oka.' which, when written in Giak script, looks like this: (insert Giak sentence here)</p>
-
-<p>Now that you can see how the Giak language works, why not try your hand at solving these three fun exercises:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>What does the following Giak phrase mean?
-<br />'Zutgorak shok rannad kog zazgog naj odnenga ak.'</li>
-<li>Translate the following English sentence into Giak:
-<br />'The human wizard is strong. He will destroy our castle.'</li>
-<li>What does this Giak sentence say?
-<br />(insert Giak sentence here)</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>For the answers please see page 73.</p>
-
-<p>Answers to Giak Language Exercises on page 72:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>The monster lives in the temple near the red river.</li>
-<li>Ziran orgaduk tukor. Dok ruzzar rogag gazad oka.</li>
-<li>I fought three dwarf soldiers and I won.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>The Official English/Giak Phrase Book</h4>
-<p>Approved by H.A.T.E. (Helgedad Adventure Tour Enterprises)</p>
-
-<p>A selection of everyday phrases you may find useful when visiting the city of Helgedad.</p>
-
-<p>English - Your spear is hurting my chest.
-<br />Giak - Zuk okak zutag narg tadzar ok.</p>
-
-<p>English - The view of the slave huts is nice.
-<br />Giak - Zee kor hezaa kuz hoki narg.</p>
-
-<p>English - There is a monster in my bedroom.
-<br />Giak - Zutgorak narg kog shardar-ligaheza ok.</p>
-
-<p>English - When is the tour of the Lake of Blood?
-<br />Giak - Tak-eg on narg Nengud-kor-Adez ta.</p>
-
-<p>English - Your Doomwolf has eaten my shoes/friend/horse.
-<br />Giak - Akamaz okak raz rannad hagora/lug/nozod ok.</p>
-
-<p>English - Please unchain me from this wall.
-<br />Giak - Ok naog-shuk jok zordak kor.</p>
-
-<p>English - How much is a poisoned dagger?
-<br />Giak - Kez dak narg ogsha zejar rannad ta.</p>
-
-<p>English - What is that incredible smell?
-<br />Giak - Teg narg zinoz gudjag ta.</p>
-
-<p>English - Waiter, there's an undead in my soup.
-<br />Giak - Zutaagon kog nenigooga - kuz.</p>
-
-<p>English - Do you have a map of the Burning Swamp?
-<br />Giak - Edaz jokog okak Nodog-Azagada kor ta.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Giak Word List</title>
-
-<h2>Giaks</h2>
-
-<h3>The Giak Word List</h3>
-
-<table>
-<tr><td>And (conj)</td><td>Ash</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Army/War party (n)</td><td>Orgar/Dorgar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Ask/Demand (v)</td><td>Jok</td></tr>
-<tr><td>At (prep)</td><td>Iak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Attack (n)</td><td>Dargag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Attack (v)</td><td>Darg</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Bed (n)</td><td>Shardar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Big/Great (adj)</td><td>Gudjag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Black (adj)</td><td>Hel</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Blood (n)</td><td>Adez</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Blue (adj)</td><td>Gug</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Boot/Shoe (n)</td><td>Hagor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Break (v)</td><td>Jez</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Brown (adj)</td><td>Klag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Burn (v)</td><td>Azgad</td></tr>
-<tr><td>But (conj)</td><td>Ka</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Carry (v)</td><td>Kag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Castle/Stronghold (n)</td><td>Gazad</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Chain (n)</td><td>Shuk</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Champion (n)</td><td>Kookar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Charge (v)</td><td>Shaag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Chest (n)</td><td>Tadzar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Church/Temple (n)</td><td>Zazgog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>City/Town (n)</td><td>Gedad</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Climb (v)</td><td>Ezar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Close/shut (v)</td><td>Zen</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Cold (adj)</td><td>Gour</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Come (v)</td><td>Dez</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Cut (v)</td><td>Shez</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Dagger/Knife (n)</td><td>Ogsha</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Danger (n)</td><td>Jatnar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Dark (adj)</td><td>Nad</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Deep (adj)</td><td>Lenag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Defend (v)</td><td>Akag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Desert/Wasteland (n)</td><td>Adar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Destroy (v)</td><td>Ruzzar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Die (n)</td><td>Gaj</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Dog (n)</td><td>Sheg</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Doomwolf (n)</td><td>Akamaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Drink (v)</td><td>Gag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Drink (n)</td><td>Gajog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Dwarf (n)</td><td>Shegtar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>East (n)</td><td>Dej</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Eat (v)</td><td>Raz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Eighty (adj)</td><td>Shazoz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Enemy (n)</td><td>Gaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Escape (v)</td><td>Ozon</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Fall (v)</td><td>Ekor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Far (adj/adv)</td><td>Ish</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Fast (adj/adv)</td><td>Tagog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Fear (v)</td><td>Tuz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Fifty (adj)</td><td>Izraz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Fight (v)</td><td>Nak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Fire (n)</td><td>Kaggaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Food (n)</td><td>Googa</td></tr>
-<tr><td>For (prep)</td><td>Tor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Forty (adj)</td><td>Roraz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Free (adj)</td><td>Loga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Friend (n)</td><td>Lug</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Get/fetch (v)</td><td>Ek</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Giak (n)</td><td>Zegor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Go (v)</td><td>Der</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Green (adj)</td><td>Shug</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Guard (v)</td><td>Odak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Guard (n)</td><td>Odakar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hammer (n)</td><td>Moggador</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hard (adj/adv)</td><td>Tadat</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hate (v)</td><td>Nig</td></tr>
-<tr><td>He (n)</td><td>Dok</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Head (n)</td><td>Nogjat</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hide (v)</td><td>Zek</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hold (v)</td><td>Jokog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Horse (n)</td><td>Nozod</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hot (adj)</td><td>Razi</td></tr>
-<tr><td>House/Hut (n)</td><td>Heza</td></tr>
-<tr><td>How (adv/conj)</td><td>Dak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Human (n)</td><td>Orgadak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hunt (n)</td><td>Kon</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hunt (v)</td><td>Shegga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Hunter (n)</td><td>Konkor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>I/me (n)</td><td>Ok</td></tr>
-<tr><td>If (conj)</td><td>Dar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Ill/Disease/Sickness (v)/(n)</td><td>Ezog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>In (prep)</td><td>Kog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Is/am/to be (v)</td><td>Narg</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Kill (v)</td><td>Taag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Lake (n)</td><td>Nengud</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Lead (v)</td><td>Okgan</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Leader/Officer (n)</td><td>Oknar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Left (n)</td><td>Daz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Like/As (prep)</td><td>Tek</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Listen/Hear (v)</td><td>Tan</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Live (adj)</td><td>Shok</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Long (adj)</td><td>Lozon</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Make/Build/Erect (v)</td><td>Dag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Many (adj)</td><td>Kez</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Map (n)</td><td>Edaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Merchant (n)</td><td>Kikago</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Monster (n)</td><td>Zutgorak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Move (v)</td><td>Daka</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Near (adj)</td><td>Naj</td></tr>
-<tr><td>New (adj)</td><td>Haag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Night (n)</td><td>Nadul</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Ninety (adj)</td><td>Shakoz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>No/Negative (adj)</td><td>Naog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>North (n)</td><td>Aztar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Obey (v)</td><td>Okja</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Of/From (prep)</td><td>Kor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Open (v)</td><td>Tok</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Or (conj)</td><td>Nart</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Order (v)</td><td>Zaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Order (n)</td><td>Zazdak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Pain/Hurt (n/v)</td><td>Zutag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Plan (v)</td><td>Tuja</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Pleasure/joy (n)</td><td>Hoki</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Poison (n)</td><td>Zejar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Red (adj)</td><td>Ak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Rest (v)</td><td>Dat</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Retreat (v)</td><td>Ogot</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Ride (v)</td><td>Kluz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Right (n)</td><td>Jag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>River (n)</td><td>Odnenga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Run (v)</td><td>Dakagog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Safe/Safety (adj/n)</td><td>Tanoz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Scout (v)</td><td>Rek</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Scout (n)</td><td>Rekenar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Sea (n)</td><td>Egina</td></tr>
-<tr><td>See (v)</td><td>Zee</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Seventy (adj)</td><td>Nazgiz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Shoot (v)</td><td>Zaj</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Shut/Close (v)</td><td>Kot</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Sixty (adj)</td><td>Nizgaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Slave (n)</td><td>Kuz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Slow (adj)</td><td>Jatnek</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Small (adj)</td><td>Liga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Smell (v)</td><td>Zinoz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Soft(adj)</td><td>Zendod</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Soldier (n)</td><td>Shad</td></tr>
-<tr><td>South (n)</td><td>Zand</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Spear (n)</td><td>Zuk</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Stand (v)</td><td>Dan</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Start/Begin (v)</td><td>Ekar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Stone (n)</td><td>Lajak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Stop/Halt (v)</td><td>Koa</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Strong (adj)</td><td>Tukor</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Succeed/Win (v)</td><td>Leka</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Swamp/Marsh (n)</td><td>Nodog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Sword (n)</td><td>Shezag</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Take (v)</td><td>Jeg</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Thief (v)</td><td>Nenrak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Thirty (adj)</td><td>Gaggaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Threaten (v)</td><td>Gan</td></tr>
-<tr><td>To (prep)</td><td>Eg</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Treasure/Wealth/Money (n)</td><td>Kika</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Undead (n/adj)</td><td>Zutaagon</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Up (adv/prep)</td><td>Tog</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Use (v)</td><td>Oza</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Wall (n)</td><td>Zordak</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Want (v)</td><td>Aga</td></tr>
-<tr><td>War (n)</td><td>Nadgaj</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Water (n)</td><td>Nen</td></tr>
-<tr><td>West (n)</td><td>Tozaz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Wet (adj)</td><td>Neni</td></tr>
-<tr><td>What (adv/n)</td><td>Teg</td></tr>
-<tr><td>When (adv/conj)</td><td>On</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Where (adv/conj)</td><td>Ega</td></tr>
-<tr><td>White (adv)</td><td>Orgad</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Who/Whom (n)</td><td>An</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Why (adv/conj)</td><td>Ka</td></tr>
-<tr><td>With (prep)</td><td>Ar</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Wizard/Sorcerer (n)</td><td>Ziran</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Wood (n)</td><td>Kona</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Wrong/Bad (adj)</td><td>Zut</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Yellow (adj)</td><td>Staz</td></tr>
-<tr><td>Yes/Positive (adv)</td><td>Gee</td></tr>
-<tr><td>You (n)</td><td>Okak</td></tr>
-</table>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Kai Lords</title>
-
-<h2>The Kai Lords</h2>
-
-<p>Of the Sommlending who first appeared from out of the Northern Void, to defeat the Darklords and establish the sun-realm of Sommerlund, there were some who possessed a great strength that lay undeveloped within them. Greater powers of mind and body, and combat skills far beyond the reach of other men were attainable to these special few. These remarkable warriors became known as the Kai Lords of Sommerlund.</p>
-
-<h3>The Rise of the Kai Lords</h3>
-
-<p>The first Kai Lord was a noble warrior, a Baron of Toran, who achieved distinction during the Great Battle of Maakengorge. Aided by the magicians of Dessi, he came to realize the true nature of his powers and the purpose for which they were bestowed. For on their prompting, he searched for and found the Lorestones of Nyxator, and through them unlocked the wisdom and strength that lay dormant within him.</p>
-
-<p>In the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 3810, he built a monastery high in the hills of Western Sommerlund, on lands of the Royal Estate, and established the Order of the Kai. The monastery became a warrior school devoted to the development of the powerful disciplines that lay within all true Kai Lords. He took the name 'Sun Eagle', partly in honour of the sun-realm and partly in recognition of his baronial eagles' crest, and recorded the wisdom of his discoveries in a great tome that became known as the Book of the Magnakai. Guided by the wisdom of this book and the personal instruction of Kai Grand Master, Sun Eagle, the Order of the Kai flourished and grew. Children in the households of Knights of the Realm who were seen to possess dormant kai disciplines, were sent to the monastery to receive special training. They entered a caring but very strict society where their true potential as warrior lords was developed to the highest level. The skills by which they had first come to the attention of their liege-lords were honed to perfection under the watchful eye of the Kai Masters. Besides the Kai Disciplines, they were also taught the virtues of truth, honour and selfless courage.</p>
-
-<p>After one year, they each received a new name. It was given to them by their teachers on the feast day of Fehmarn, and it reflected qualities in their growing personalities. Gradually, as the young novices mastered each of the ten basic Kai Disciplines, they were awarded ranks and titles and given greater responsibilities both inside and away from the monastery. At the rank of Warmarn or Journeyman, a Kai Lord was either sent into the service of the Sommlending Army to accustom himself to the command of troops, or sent abroad to gather information about the lands bordering his realm. Upon complete mastery of all ten basic Kai Disciplines, a Kai Lord became a Kai Master. The pupil was now a teacher whose role it was to train young novices in the way of the Kai.</p>
-
-<p>But a Kai Master's learning was still incomplete, for beyond the ten basic skills there awaited the higher Kai Disciplines. The 'Magnakai' skills were handed down through each generation of Kai Masters by personal instruction and study of the Book of the Magnakai. The skills were divided into groups, each of which was governed by a separate training school called a 'lore-circle'. By mastering all of the Magnakai Disciplines of a lore-circle, the Kai Masters increased their fighting prowess and their physical and mental stamina to a level far higher than any mortal warrior could have otherwise attained.</p>
-
-<h3>The Kai Monastery</h3>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>The Kai Monastery built by Sun-Eagle in <span class="caps">MS</span> 3810. Situated high in the hills of Western Sommerlund, the monastery became a warrior school devoted to the development of the Kai Disciplines. Here potential Kai Lords were trained in all the warrior skills and imbued with the virtues of truth, honour and courage.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Lastlander/Old Kingdom Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Lastlander/Old Kingdom Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Durenor</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Alin <span class="caps">IV</span>
-<br />Capital: Hammerdal
-<br />Population: 96,000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, agriculture, shipbuilding, gold, silver, copper, fish, gems, timber
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<p>The peninsula of Durenor was the first territory claimed by the Ulnarian peoples when they came to Magnamund in <span class="caps">MS</span> 2829. They encountered little resistance to their expansion; the outlaws and corsairs (mainly fugitives from Vassagonian law) who had settled along the southern coast, fled to Cloeasia and the Lakuri Isles when confronted by the Ulnarian armies. The second migration (<span class="caps">MS</span> 3434) saw the arrival of Durenor's greatest ally, the Sommlending, and the construction of the city of Hammerdal.</p>
-
-<h4>The Magiocracy of Dessi</h4>
-<p>Ruler: 'Magi Regnanti' (The Council of Elder Wizards)
-<br />Capital: Elzian
-<br />Population: 4000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, gold, silver, platinum, rare gems, minerals <br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<p>The Magicians of Dessi are all that remains of the great Elder Magi, the race of beings from whom all magical power stems. Sent to destroy Agarash and to deliver Magnamund out of the age of Eternal Night, the Elder Magi brought about his final downfall during the War of One Thousand Years (3572 <span class="caps">MS</span>). In 2514 <span class="caps">MS</span>, their numbers were decimated in the Great Plague. The surviving magicians sought refuge in the mountains of Dessi and have lived there ever since.</p>
-
-<h4>The Free State of Chaman</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Arch-Chief Borghanaphon
-<br />Capital: Gleesh
-<br />Population: 11,000 +
-<br />Resources: Fishery, timber, copper, bronin
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<p>The government and populace of this independent free state are made up almost exclusively of Kloons - an intelligent race of Drodarin descent. They are to be found throughout the Stornlands and have a reputation for being scholarly and industrious creatures. The city of Gleesh is one of the great trading ports of the Tentarias, a fact attributed to the renowned business acumen and wisdom of the country's ruler - Arch-Chief Borghanaphon.</p>
-
-<h4>The Isle of the Sianti - (Isle of Lorn)</h4>
-<p>Ruler: High Wizard Acarya
-<br />Capital: Temple of Amida
-<br />Population: 1500
-<br />Resources: Self-supporting - agriculture, fish, timber
-<br />Currency: None</p>
-
-<p>Surrounded by the mage-winds and illusions of the Sea of Dreams, the Isle of Lorn is the last refuge of a race of lesser gods called the Shianti. They were exiled to this small island by command of the Goddess Ishir, and they pledged themselves to remain separate from the peoples and lands of Magnamund, and to take no further part in the destiny of mankind.</p>
-
-<h4>The Plenary of Bautar</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Magnalord Fennic
-<br />Capital: Talon
-<br />Population: 8000 +
-<br />Resources: Rare herbs, timber, fish, copper, bronin
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<h4>The Realm of Ruel</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Grand Druid Cadak
-<br />Capital: Mogaruith
-<br />Population: 8000
-<br />Resources: Rare herbs, timber, fish
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Gynarchy of Telchos</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Council of Thirty
-<br />Capital: Telchos
-<br />Population: 30,000 +
-<br />Resources: Silver, platinum, iron ore, gold, agriculture, fish, rare gems
-<br />Currency: Telc (1 Telc = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Modelling Magnamund</title>
-
-<h2>Modelling Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Kai Monastery</h3>
-
-<p>It you want to start re-fighting Lone Wolf's adventures in miniature, where better to start than at the Kai Monastery. It was here that the Darklords struck their greatest blow against Sommerlund, when on the Feast of Fehmarn, they launched a surprise attack on the Kai Lords.</p>
-
-<p>On the left, you can see the Darklords launching their final assault. Those Kai with the swiftest reactions have snatched up weapons in a desperate attempt to stop the Giaks and Drakkarim bursting in. In the foreground, a Giak Shaman has loosed a fireball at the defending Kai warriors, killing some and wounding others. Doomwolves are waiting to pour through the gap in the Kai lines.</p>
-
-<p>The model of the monastery was designed with a flat back to allow it to be placed up against the edge of a war-games table. The towers and keep have no back wall, enabling you to see the figures inside. The monastery is about 100 cms long - a fairly large model for an inexperienced modeller but the same techniques can be used to make smaller, less detailed models.</p>
-
-<p>First of all, draw a simple plan of your model showing the layout of the building and its dimensions. Rooms should be relatively large as figure bases take up a lot of room. If you need help deciding what to build, try the junior history section of your local library.</p>
-
-<h4>The Materials</h4>
-
-<p>All the materials you need for making models are cheap and readily available in hobby or <span class="caps">DIY</span> shops or artists' suppliers.</p>
-
-<p>You will need:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Some polystyrene ceiling tiles for walls and floors.</li>
-<li>Some <span class="caps">PVA</span> glue. (This is for sticking the polystyrene tiles together. Don't use any other type of glue as it may dissolve the plastic.)</li>
-<li>A piece of hardboard or chipboard for the model's base. For a small model use hardboard but for a larger model (over 30 cms square) use chipboard as it's less likely to warp.</li>
-<li>A sheet of thin plasticard (to simulate stone work).</li>
-<li>A tube of ready-mixed household filler, such as Tetrion or Polyfiller.</li>
-<li>Some strip balsa wood (for door- and window-frames or mouldings on the building's exterior).</li>
-<li>Dressmaking pins (to reinforce the corners and to hold the model together while the glue dries).</li>
-<li>Cork bark (for any rocks or boulders on the base of your model). For small amounts try model railway shops; for large amounts try a garden centre or florist.</li>
-<li>Ready-made accessories. The doors and windows of the Kai Monastery are white-metal castings. You should be able to buy them at model shops. (Note: Citadel Miniatures have a worldwide mailing service. Their address is: Chewton St, Hilltop, Eastwood, Notts.) In plastic, they are available from model railway shops. You can make your own from balsa or plastic strip but they take a long time and look less finished. Statues can be made by painting figures grey. Use the larger plastic figures for huge statues.</li>
-<li>Emulsion paint. If your model is meant to be a stone building, it will look best if painted in shades of grey. You can tint white paint by adding a little poster or powder colour. You can usually buy small quantities of paint at <span class="caps">DIY</span> shops.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Instructions</h4>
-
-<ol>
-<li>The base. Cut a piece of hardboard or chipboard to the required size. Allow about 3 cms all around your model. If by any chance you have a jigsaw or keyhole saw, use this to cut the base in an irregular shape. Use sandpaper to remove roughness round the edge.</li>
-<li>Walls and floors. Using a ruler and set square and a fine felt tip pen, draw the shapes of the walls and floor on the polystyrene ceiling tiles. Take care to ensure they're accurate. Mark in position the outlines of any doors or windows you require.</li>
-<li>Cutting out the pieces. Use a craft knife or scalpel to cut out the pieces of polystyrene. Any straight edges, door and window apertures should be cut by drawing the knife very carefully along the edge of a ruler.</li>
-<li>Putting it together. Pin the pieces together to make sure they fit. If everything fits, brush the edges to be joined with <span class="caps">PVA</span> glue and press them together. Push a pin deep into each joint to hold it together. (See Fig 1.) Remember not to glue the fourth wall if your model is to be free-standing. When everything is glued together, allow the model to dry.</li>
-<li>Doors and windows. If you are making your own, use balsa wood glued together with an impact adhesive like Uhu. (See Fig 2.) Make them to the same size as the holes in your model. Do not attempt to fit them in place until the glue has set hard.</li>
-<li>Stonework. Take your plasticard and with a ruler and craft knife, score its surface in a grid to make a large number of rectangles of different sizes (none should be larger than 1 1/2 cms). Snap them off into individual pieces. Using the <span class="caps">PVA</span> glue, fix the pieces in irregular clusters on the exterior of your building (see Fig 3). Glue the larger pieces on the corners as shown. If you are making a building with a removable side, look closely at Fig 4 before gluing the plasticard pieces onto the building. The corner pieces should only be fixed to the edge of the removable side. This will disguise any join between the loose wall and the main building. Now glue the model to the base, using the <span class="caps">PVA</span> adhesive.</li>
-<li>Plastering. Wait until the glue holding the stonework in place has completely dried. Then, using a small spatula or scrap of plasticard fill any gaps round the doors and windows with a little of the ready-mixed filler. Thin down some of the filler with a little water until it's like thin custard and then paint it all over the inside and outside of the building. If your model is built with a removable side, don't brush any plaster where the pieces of plasticard grip the walls as the increased thickness of the dried filler may prevent the loose section fitting properly.</li>
-<li>The Base. If you wish to have a rocky base, you should glue your cork bark into position with an impact adhesive such as Uhu. Then spread unthinned filler over the base right up to the walls and round any cork rocks so that they appear to be sunk into the ground. Make sure it sets with a rough texture but while it's still soft, add small objects (twigs, stones, treasure chests, severed heads!) for extra interest. If your building has a removable side take care not to plaster the loose section into place.</li>
-<li>Painting. Make sure the plaster has dried. Use only emulsion paint on the polystyrene pieces. If you have a removable wall, remove and paint separately. Paint the interior in the colour of your choice. For the exterior and stone flooring: first paint all the exposed stonework medium grey and let it dry. Then put a little light grey paint on your brush and wipe it firmly with a rag. Now draw the brush lightly over the surface from side to side and up and down. This technique (dry-brushing) picks out the texture of the stonework and makes the building look more three dimensional. Next dry-brush the building with the off-white paint, very lightly, using up and down strokes. This highlights those parts that would catch the sunlight. When the emulsion has dried, paint the doors and windows with modelling enamel in either dark brown or white. Paint the base next using medium green for grass, dry-brushed with yellow (when dry) to pick out the rough textures. Dry-brush cork rocks with off-white.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>Your building is now complete. If you want to furnish the inside, visit your games shop and look at their range of miniature furniture. Or make your own using balsa wood strip and thin card.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Mythenish/Tianese Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Mythenish/Tianese Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Autocracy of Bhanar</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Imperial Autarch Sejanoz
-<br />Capital: Otavai
-<br />Population: 350,000 +
-<br />Resources: Fish, shipbuilding, timber, agriculture, silver, copper, jadin
-<br />Currency: Ren (10 Ren = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>Following the creation of Bhanar during the Great Civil War (<span class="caps">MS</span> 1620), the Imperial Autarch set about the expansion of his empire. In the north, vast tracts of dense timberland were laid bare and the city of Sejanoz built in his honour. Rumour is rife that the Imperial Autarch has entered into a pact with the demonic creatures of Naaros: it is based on the fact that Autarch Sejanoz has not aged a day since the completion of the city, over 3000 years ago.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Vaduzhan</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Rhetaka
-<br />Capital: Vaduz
-<br />Population: 120,000 +
-<br />Resources: Fish, timber, shipbuilding, gold, silver, iron ore, copper, spices
-<br />Currency: Ren (10 Ren = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Island Principalities of Nyhtan</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Grand Prince Tsumobi
-<br />Capital: Shotia
-<br />Population: 43,000
-<br />Resources: Shipbuilding, fish, silver, copper, spices
-<br />Currency: Ren (10 Ren = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>Chai</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Khea-khan of Pensei
-<br />Capital: Pensei
-<br />Population: 89,000 +
-<br />Resources: Fish, timber, gold, silver, iron ore, agriculture, copper, bronin, jadin
-<br />Currency: Ren (10 Ren = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>The natural defences of Chai - mountains, swamps and dense forests - have protected her from aggressive neighbours for over three thousand years. Long ago, during the Age of Eternal Night, the land of Chai was stalked by hideous monsters - the creatures of Agarash the Damned. When he was destroyed, his creatures scattered into the wilderness of Chai. Many are alive to this day, hiding deep in swamp, burrow and cave.</p>
-
-<h4>The Plainlands of Lissan</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Samu (in exile)
-<br />Capital: Rakholi (The Tent City of)
-<br />Population: 220,000 (prior to <span class="caps">MS</span> 5054)
-<br />Resources: Horses, agriculture, copper, silver, iron ore
-<br />Currency: Hen (10 Ren = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Province of Suhn</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Mother Magri
-<br />Capital: Port of Suhn
-<br />Population: 25,000 +
-<br />Resources: Fish, spices, rare herbs, rare minerals, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Province of Andui</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Mother Chow-loon
-<br />Capital: Andui
-<br />Population: 8000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, iron ore, copper
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Desolation of Taklakot</h4>
-<p>Ruler: The Mad King of Gyanima
-<br />Capital: Gyanima: The Forbidden City
-<br />Population: Unknown
-<br />Resources: Mostly destroyed
-<br />Currency: Kote (10 Kotes = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Freedom Guild of Karnali</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Sado of the Long Knife
-<br />Capital: Karnali
-<br />Population: 17,000
-<br />Resources: Rare hides, rare minerals, agriculture, fish
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Principality of Forlu</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Mother Lhasa
-<br />Capital: Forlu
-<br />Population: 36,000 +
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, timber, iron ore, jadin
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>Formally ruled by the corrupt household of Mesanna, this principality suffered its ruthless leadership for several centuries. The populace grew weaker and poorer as the Lords of Mesanna hoarded the wealth of the jadin-rich Shuri mountains. They entered into an alliance with the evil forces of the Shadakine Empire, but were betrayed during the War of the Winds. For the Shadakine invaded and took control of the Mesanna palace in Forlu, throwing the former corrupt rulers to the angry citizens.</p>
-
-<h4>The State of Korli</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Mother Solani
-<br />Capital: Korli
-<br />Population: 15,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, fish, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>One of the oldest Tianese states, Korli was first established in the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 675 by the ruling household of Lord Margos. It flourished and grew wealthy from its trade with neighbouring provinces, its command of the Kalamar river, and its large merchant fleet. Civil War with the breakaway state of Andui, led by renegade Prince Junai and his Knights of Abbali, weakened her but control of the rich township of Abbali was never lost. Following the War of the Winds in <span class="caps">MS</span> 4663, Korli fell to the invading Shadakine Empire.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Nael/Nael-Aluvian Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Nael/Nael-Aluvian Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Kindom of Klarnos</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Hulz
-<br />Capital: Dragen
-<br />Population: 96,000
-<br />Resources: Gold, iron ore, fish, shipbuilding agriculture, copper <br />Currency: Orla (2 Orla = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<p>Klarnos was the first territory to be settled by the Nael peoples in <span class="caps">MS</span> 1309. They claimed the land by force from the kingdom of Cincoria, and secured for themselves the gold-rich Klann mountains of north. Further Nael expansion led to the Great Plains War with Lunarlia in which they were defeated at the Battle of Kaylar Flat (<span class="caps">MS</span> 1366). Mountains and desert sandstorms have prevented any contact with Telchos, and the continued hostility of Cincoria and Lunarlia has forced Klarnos to rely heavily on sea trade with the Mythenish nations.</p>
-
-<h4>The Grand Principalities of Slovia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Grand Prince Ormond of Suentina
-<br />Capital: Suentina
-<br />Population: 190,000
-<br />Resources: Cloth, textiles, agriculture, iron ore, silver, bronin <br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<p>The fertile plains of Slovia are divided into many principalities which are united, albeit precariously, by the rule of Grand Prince Ormond. War is a constant threat to the Slovians, who face hostile enemies to the north, east and west. A large regular army, comprised in the main of mercenaries and horse knights, keep the land secure and aid her ally, Anari. Recently, it is feared that Darklord subversion has undermined the Grand Prince's court, and civil war seems imminent.</p>
-
-<h4>The Confederated Principalities of Salony</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Prince Ewevin of Rhem
-<br />Capital: Rhem
-<br />Population: 42,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, timber, shipbuilding, iron ore, mercenaries, rare minerals
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<p>Descended from both Aluvian and Nael stock, the people of Salony have struggled hard to maintain their independence. Their land-locked principalities have suffered, more than any other Stornland nation, from the countless wars that ravage that region. They emerged victorious from the War of the Lorestone due, in part, to the sinister aid they received from the Cener Druids of Ruel.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Siyen</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Oridon <span class="caps">IV</span>
-<br />Capital: Seroa
-<br />Population: 480,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, timber, shipbuilding, fish, iron ore, copper, gold, gems, bronin, tin, rare metals
-<br />Currency: Orla (2 Orla = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<p>The kingdom of Siyen was founded by the Nael peoples during their early migration across central Magnamund. Following the Great Plains War, Siyen was cut off from its parent land of Klanos by the Union of Lunarlia. It grew strong from its command over the Tentarius, and from the skilful use of its rich natural resources. King Oridon maintains a large standing army and battle fleet. Of all the neighbouring states, only Rezovia is friendly.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Rezovia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Delhan
-<br />Capital: Maula
-<br />Population: 92,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, fish, shipbuilding, timber, tin, copper
-<br />Currency: Orla (2 Orla = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Palinate of Firalond</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Grandar Beylian
-<br />Capital: Firina
-<br />Population: 89,000 +
-<br />Resources: Cloth, textiles, agriculture, iron ore (little)
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Theocracy of Valerion</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Fathers of the Truth
-<br />Capital: Kelis
-<br />Population: 66,000
-<br />Resources: Timber, rare metals, rare minerals, agriculture, silver, fish
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Senatocracy of Lourden</h4>
-<p>Ruler: The Senate of Arlcor
-<br />Capital: Pforodon
-<br />Population: 106,000
-<br />Resources: Cloth, textiles, agriculture, silver, minerals, iron ore
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Nations of Magnamund</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Races of Magnamund</h3>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Drakkar Assault-Trooper
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 5050
-<br />Drakkarim Assault-Troopers are used by the Darklords to spearhead Giak attacks. They favour weapons of black steel. This warrior's red helmet plume signifies over 100 'kills'.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Varetian Mercenary
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 4405
-<br />This Aluvian pikeman is typical of many soldiers of fortune who fought in the Stornlands during the War of the Lorestone. He wears the red and white livery of Varetta.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Lencian Crusader
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 2754
-<br />This Vaderish foot knight wears Lencian plate armour. Lightly armoured Drakkarim archers constantly outmanoeuvred these knights in the second crusade.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Ice Barbarian Scout
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 5000
-<br />This fur-clad warrior is equipped with bone armour, skis (formerly the ribs of Kalte mammoths), and a backpack that is specially designed to carry a bow-wielding child.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Sharnazim Warrior
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 5050
-<br />The Vassa guard the Grand Palace and the royal family of Vassagonia. They are famed for their skill with wide-bladed scimitars known as 'bitikali'.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Drodayin Tower-Gunner
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 4967
-<br />Tower-Gunners, armed with axes and primitive handguns, are employed to defend the entrances to the mountain kingdom of Bor.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<p>Imperial Chai Guardsman
-<br />c.<span class="caps">MS</span> 5000
-<br />This famous Mythenish warrior is wearing a ceremonial 'armour of life'. His gold collar and epaulettes denote his rank of guard-captain, and his weapon is a 'kirusami'.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Primitive/Drodarin Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Primitive/Drodarin Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Starn</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Korl
-<br />Capital: Mount Vost
-<br />Population: 2000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, gold, gems, rare minerals, bronin, silver <br />Currency: Ain (1 Ain = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>The Drodarin giants of Starn have occupied the halls of Mount Vost ever since the Age of the Old Kingdoms. They are an insular race who have shunned all contact with humans since the Great Plague of 2514 <span class="caps">MS</span> devastated their population. A strong bond of friendship exists with the dwarves of Boden, who, in spite of their great physical differences, are also of Drodarin descent.</p>
-
-<h4>The Free State of Caron</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Svedchek Moldo
-<br />Capital: Orello
-<br />Population: 6000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, copper, timber, fish, shipbuilding, agriculture, silver
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>This small but resourceful free state is the home of a Drodarin race of blue-skinned creatures called Ogrons. Closely related to the dwarves of Bor and the giants of Starn, they frequently have had cause to call on their aid to repel their sinister neighbours - the Cenerese of Ruel - from their northern territories.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kelderwastes</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Count Laj of Sheasu
-<br />Capital: Sheasu
-<br />Population: 2000 + (Sheasu)/30,000 (Mainland)
-<br />Resources: Shipbuilding, fish, agriculture
-<br />Currency: Ren (10 Ren = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>The Isle of Sheasu is the only human settlement in the Kelderwastes, the mainland being a vast jungle populated by lizards and other semi-intelligent reptilians of Agarashi descent, that fled there after the fall of Naaros. Count Laj rules over a small population of exiles from several nations who, for a variety of reasons, choose not to return to the lands of their birth.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Bor</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Ryvin
-<br />Capital: Boradon
-<br />Population: 130,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, copper, silver, platinum, rare minerals, rare metals, gems, gold
-<br />Currency: Ain (1 Ain = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>The kingdom of Bor is the home of all Drodarin dwarves of Northern Magnamund. The vast hills and chambers at the heart of the Great Bor Range were formed by the labour and skill of these stout and stubborn folk. Their ingenuity (particularly in the field of innovative weapon and armour design) and their tales of bravery and endeavour are famed throughout the whole of Magnamund.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Boden</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Lomaer <span class="caps">II</span>
-<br />Capital: Anarin
-<br />Population: 120,000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, bronin, gold, silver, rare metals, rare minerals, agriculture, fish
-<br />Currency: Ain (1 Ain = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Burntlands of Lara</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Shasarak the Wytch-king
-<br />Capital: None
-<br />Population: 2000 +
-<br />Resources: Sparse agriculture
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Cloud-Realm of the Azanam</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Okosa
-<br />Capital: None
-<br />Population: 12,000
-<br />Resources: Rare herbs, rare minerals, timber, spices
-<br />Currency: None</p>
-
-<h4>The Dark Forest of Fernmost</h4>
-<p>Ruler: None
-<br />Capital: None
-<br />Population: Doubtful
-<br />Resources: Rare herbs, rare flora, rare timbers
-<br />Currency: None</p>
-
-<h4>The Icy Wastes of Kalte</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Brumalmarc Kzu'tooa
-<br />Capital: Ljuk
-<br />Population: 6000
-<br />Resources: Furs
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown (Ljuk only)</p>
-
-<h4>The Wilderlands of Kaum</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Unknown
-<br />Capital: None
-<br />Population: 1000 +
-<br />Resources: Silver, gems, rare metals, rare herbs
-<br />Currency: None</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</title>
-
-<h2>Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</h2>
-
-<h3>Introduction</h3>
-
-<p>The Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl is a multi-player role-playing game where you have the chance to play the part of Ragadorn's famous, or infamous, inhabitants. For maximum enjoyment and excitement players should try to act as though they are the characters dealt them (hence the term 'role-playing'). Whether your character is a native of the city or a visitor, a night to remember awaits you in the Ragadorn Ale-house.</p>
-
-<h3>Preparation</h3>
-
-<p>Before play can begin, you will need to cut out the coloured playing pieces and the Combat Results Table that appear on p. 95. The Character Profiles on pp. 48-9 should be copied out onto separate cards, or alternatively, they can be photocopied, cut out and stuck onto individual cards. (Players may find it convenient to photocopy these rules in advance of play, as reference to them will be impractical once the game is in progress.)</p>
-
-<h3>Game Equipment</h3>
-
-<ul>
-<li>Playing Board</li>
-<li>3 Torch Counters</li>
-<li>10 Character Profile Cards</li>
-<li>10 Player Counters</li>
-<li>3 Non-Player Counters</li>
-<li>3 Bucket Counters</li>
-<li>9 Loot Counters</li>
-<li>3 Food Counters</li>
-<li>9 Chair Counters</li>
-<li>1 Broom Counter</li>
-<li>6 Bottle Counters</li>
-<li>1 Helghast Marker</li>
-<li>1 Axe</li>
-<li>9 Special Item Counters</li>
-<li>10 Gambling Counters</li>
-<li>1 Combat Results Table/<a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a></li>
-<li>1 Character Grid</li>
-</ul>
-
-<h3>Setting-up</h3>
-
-<ol>
-<li>The game is designed for 2 to 10 players, each controlling one or more of the characters.</li>
-<li>Characters are allocated to players according to the number of players taking part. Consult the Character Grid for details.</li>
-<li>Players take their Character Profile Cards.</li>
-<li>The Landlord player mixes the Special Item counters and places one face downwards on each of the Character Profile Cards. (See Heighast rules for special conditions.)</li>
-<li>Players may now look at their Special Item counters and adjust their Character Profile Cards depending on the nature of the Special Item received.</li>
-<li>Each player draws the coloured Player Counter for their respective character or characters.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>The Landlord player now prepares the gameboard as follows:</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Place Chair and Tavern Item counters face upwards on the playing board. Care should be taken to place them in realistic positions on the board e.g. chairs should be set around tables, torches next to walls, etc.</li>
-<li>Place the Landlord Player Counter and the 3 Non-Player Counters on the board. At least one of the Serving Girls should be placed behind the bar, and the Croupier should be adjacent to the Gaming Table.</li>
-<li>Place the 9 Loot Counters face downwards anywhere on the board. If a Loot Counter occupies the same square as a Non-Player Character counter, the loot is considered to be in the possession of that non-player character. If a Loot Counter is placed on the same square as the Bar, the Gaming Table, a Tavern Item or a piece of furniture (chair or table), then the Loot Counter is considered to be hidden from view (see 'Hidden Counters')</li>
-</ol>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</title>
-
-<h2>Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</h2>
-
-<h3>Ragadorn Tavern Game Characters</h3>
-
-<p>Lone Wolf
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 18
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 34
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 5
-<br />Weapon: Magic Spear
-<br />Gold Crowns: 10</p>
-<p>You are Lone Wolf. A scroll found on the body of a dead Giak messenger in the Durncrag mountains points to a Darklord plot to take control of Ragadorn. You arrived in the city last night and were attacked by a Helghast. Fortunately, you fought it off with your Magic Spear. You have now tracked the Helghast to this ale-house and you are sure that it has taken on the appearance of one of the customers.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To uncover the Helghast and kill it before it kills you.</p>
-
-<p>Magician
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 13
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 22
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 3
-<br />Weapon: Dagger
-<br />Gold Crowns: 0</p>
-<p>You are a Journeyman from the Magicians Guild of Toran. You reached Ragadorn this morning, but as soon as you stepped inside the city gate you were attacked by a street thief. In the fight the thief fell on his dagger and died. You kept the dagger and the Special Item that was in the thief's pocket. Since then you have heard that the thieves' guild are now on the lookout for you.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To acquire 20 Gold Crowns for the coach fare to the safety of Durenor.</p>
-
-<p>Mercenary
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 15
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 28
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon: Sword
-<br />Gold Crowns: 16</p>
-<p>You are a Soldier of Fortune from Varetta. Two months ago, your regiment was lured into an ambush and massacred. You were the only one to survive and you have sworn to take revenge on the traitor who betrayed your comrades. He, like yourself, is a mercenary from Varetta, and you have learned that he is in hiding in Ragadorn. You have never seen this man, but you know that he often disguises himself as a Magician or a Ranger.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To kill the Magician and the Ranger.</p>
-
-<p>Knight
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 16
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 26
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon: Broadsword
-<br />Gold Crowns: 12 </p>
-<p>You are a Knight of the White Mountain, a warrior lord of Durenor. Two days ago your brother was assassinated at his castle in Ryme. You witnessed the crime and have followed the assassin, a female Adventuress, here to Ragadorn. You hope to capture the assassin alive and take her back to Durenor to face trial, but you suspect that she will not give up without a fight.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To arrest the Adventuress. You may only attack her if she offers resistance.</p>
-
-<p>Herbwarden
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 12
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 20
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 3
-<br />Weapon: Dagger
-<br />Gold Crowns: 8</p>
-<p>You are a young Herbwarden from Bautar, sent to Ragadorn to investigate the disappearance of a fellow Herbwarden called Dalimor. You have discovered that your arch-enemies, the Cener Druids, have established a secret temple in Ragadorn, and that Dalimor was murdered there. You must return to Bautar to report your chilling discovery, but you do not have enough money.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To acquire 40 Gold Crowns for your return trip to Bautar by whatever means possible.</p>
-
-<p>Druid
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 12
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 20
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 3
-<br />Weapon: Quarterstaff
-<br />Gold Crowns: 6</p>
-<p>You are a member of an evil sect of Druids called the Ceners. Your brotherhood has set up a secret temple deep in the heart of Ragadorn, but its location has been discovered by your arch-enemies - the Herbwardens of Bautar. You have already killed one of their spies, but now another has been sent to investigate his disappearance. You have tracked him down to this ale-house.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To kill the Herbwarden as quickly as possible.</p>
-
-<p>Adventuress
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 15
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 24
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon: Short Sword
-<br />Gold Crowns: 12</p>
-<p>You are a skilled fighter and assassin who has just returned from a successful mission in Durenor. Your contact has just been murdered but before his death he hid the payment for your mission, a large diamond (<span class="caps">LOOT</span> counter), somewhere in this ale-house. You fear someone witnessed the assassination you carried out, and that you have been followed all the way from Durenor.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To find the large diamond that is hidden somewhere in the ale-house.</p>
-
-<p>Merchant
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 10
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 24
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 3
-<br />Weapon: Dagger
-<br />Gold Crowns: 20</p>
-<p>You are a wealthy Merchant who owns a trading post down by Ragadorn quay. You love gambling and often frequent this ale-house to play the Gaming Table - some nights you are very lucky! You have made many enemies due to your shady business dealings, and you should remain on your guard at all times.</p>
-<p>Your objective: To win 50 Gold Crowns at the Gaming Table, or acquire the money by some other means before the night is out.</p>
-
-<p>Ranger
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 15
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 24
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon: Axe
-<br />Gold Crowns: 10</p>
-<p>You have just returned from a long and successful hunting trip to Durenor. On your arrival you sold some furs to the Merchant for 25 Gold Crowns. You later discovered that he had cheated you and that 15 of them were counterfeit. You have come to the ale-house determined to make him give you the money he owes you.</p>
-<p>Your objective: Either to persuade the Merchant to hand over 15 Gold Crowns, or to kill him and take the money.</p>
-
-<p>Landlord
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 16
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 26
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 5
-<br />Weapon: Club
-<br />Gold Crowns: 20</p>
-
-<p>Croupier
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 10
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 21
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon: Dagger
-<br />Gold Crowns: 3</p>
-
-<p>Serving Girl 1
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 8
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 18
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon:
-<br />Gold Crowns: 1</p>
-
-<p>Serving Girl 2
-<br /><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 8
-<br /><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span>: 18
-<br /><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 4
-<br />Weapon:
-<br />Gold Crowns: 1</p>
-
-<p>As landlord of the tavern your objective is to collect 40 Gold Crowns from players using the Gambling Table, and to ensure that none of your staff (the non-player characters) get killed.</p>
-
-<h4>Character Grid</h4>
-
-<ul>
-
-<li>2 Players:
- <dl>
- <dt>Player 1</dt>
- <dd>Lone Wolf
- <br />Mercenary
- <br />Druid
- <br />Merchant
- <br />Adventuress</dd>
- <dt>Player 2</dt>
- <dd>Landlord
- <br />Magician
- <br />Knight
- <br />Herbwarden
- <br />Ranger</dd>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>3 Players: (Take out Knight)
- <dl>
- <dt>Player 1</dt>
- <dd>Druid
- <br />Magician
- <br />Merchant</dd>
- <dt>Player 2</dt>
- <dd>Herbwarden
- <br />Ranger
- <br />Lone Wolf</dd>
- <dt>Player 3</dt>
- <br />Landlord
- <br />Mercenary
- <br />Adventuress</dd>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>4 Players: (Take out Herbwarden & Druid)
- <dl>
- <dt>Player 1</dt>
- <dd>Magician
- <br />Ranger</dd>
- <dt>Player 2</dt>
- <dd>Merchant
- <br />Knight</dd>
- <dt>Player 3</dt>
- <dd>Adventuress
- <br />Lone Wolf</dd>
- <dt>Player 4</dt>
- <dd>Mercenary
- <br />Landlord</dd>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>5 Players:
- <dl>
- <dt>Player 1</dt>
- <dd>Adventuress
- <br />Ranger</dd>
- <dt>Player 2</dt>
- <dd>Knight
- <br />Druid</dd>
- <dt>Player 3</dt>
- <dd>Merchant
- <br />Mercenary</dd>
- <dt>Player 4</dt>
- <dd>Herbwarden
- <br />Lone Wolf</dd>
- <dt>Player 5</dt>
- <dd>Magician
- <br />Landlord</dd>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>6 Players:
- <dl>
- <dt>Player 1</dt>
- <dd>Lone Wolf</dd>
- <dt>Player 2
- <dd>Landlord</dd>
- <dt>Player 3</dt>
- <dd>Magician
- <br />Ranger</dd>
- <dt>Player 4</dt>
- <dd>Merchant
- <br />Knight</dd>
- <dt>Player 5</dt>
- <dd>Adventuress
- <br />Herbwarden</dd>
- <dt>Player 6</dt>
- <dd>Mercenary
- <br />Druid</dd>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>7 Players: (Take out Knight, Herbwarden and Druid)
- <dl>
- <dt>Players take one character each</dt>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>8 Players: (Take out Herbwarden & Druid)
- <dl>
- <dt>Players take one character each</dt>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>9 Players: (Take out Knight)
- <dl>
- <dt>Players take one character each</dt>
- </dl>
-</li>
-
-<li>10 Players:
- <dl>
- <dt>Players take one character each</dt>
- </dl>
-</li>
-</ul>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</title>
-
-<h2>Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</h2>
-
-<h3>Player Objectives</h3>
-
-<p>Each player must attempt to complete the objective given on each Character Profile Card (see also 'Helghast' and 'Winning the Game')</p>
-
-<h3>Startion Positions</h3>
-
-<p>The game begins with the player to the left of the Landlord.</p>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Pick a number from the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a>. To do so, place the table face upwards on a flat surface and hold a pencil directly above it. The pencil should be at least 25 cm above the table. Now, let the pencil fall onto the table. The number it falls on is the number that has been picked. If you pick 0 it counts as zero.</li>
-<li>If the number chosen is 0-6, the player can place his Character Counter on any square inside the ale-house, with the exception of any table or behind the bar.</li>
-<li>If a 7-9 is chosen, the player must position his Character Counter on any one of the four doors.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h3>Game Rounds</h3>
-
-<p>The game is conducted in rounds, each consisting of four quarters - Movement Quarter, Missile Quarter, Combat Quarter, Gaming Quarter. Play in the first round takes place in a clockwise direction, alternating anti-clockwise and clockwise every subsequent round. Actions are completed by each player in turn before moving on to the next Quarter.</p>
-
-<h4>Movement Quarter</h4>
-
-<ol>
-<li>The Landlord moves any or all of the Non-Player Character counters.<li>
-<li>Each player takes it in turn to move his Character Counter(s), any number of squares up to the maximum allowed on his Character Profile Card.</li>
-<li>If one player moves his character onto a square adjacent to another character, he can choose to fight or talk to that character. If so, the character he intends fight or talk to cannot move his Character Counter in that move.</li>
-<li>Characters cannot move diagonally or pass through a square occupied by another character.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Missile Quarter</h4>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Any character who possesses, or is adjacent to an item that can be thrown, may now choose to throw that item at another character.</li>
-<li>Consult the chart that is printed on the playing board to determine if a thrown missile hits its target, and if it does, how many <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> are lost by the target.</li>
-<li>Weapons may be thrown if so desired, but are considered lost until retrieved by the throwing character.</li>
-<li>Thrown magical weapons do extra damage to their target if a successful hit is scored. Consult the Combat Results Table in the normal way (see Rules for Combat), ignoring any loss of <span class="caps">ENDUPANCE POINTS</span> sustained by the attacker.</li>
-<li>Missiles that miss will land one square in front of the target if the random number picked is an even number, and one square behind if the number is odd.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Combat Quarter</h4>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Only character counters that are adjacent to each other at the end of the Missile Quarter can engage in combat. If either character is unarmed, his <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> is reduced by 4.</li>
-<li>Characters can only co-operate with other player's characters once they have elected to 'talk' to each other on the gameboard i.e. the two Player Character Counters are moved adjacent to one another. If a player has elected to talk to another player during the Movement Quarter, he cannot enter into combat with him that round, unless the other player has thrown a missile at him during the Missile Quarter.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>The sequence for combat is as follows:</p>
-<ol>
-<li>The player who is launching the attack ('the attacker') compares his <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> to that of the player he is attacking ('the defender').</li>
-<li>The defender's <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> is subtracted from the attacker's <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>. This result is the Combat Ratio.</li>
-<li>The attacker picks a number from the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
-<li>Turning the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a> over, the attacker finds the number that is the same as the Combat Ratio on the Combat Results Table. He now cross-references it with the Random Number that he picked and finds the number of <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> lost by both the Attacker and the Defender in this Combat Quarter. ('A' represents points lost by the defender, 'B' represents points lost by the attacker.)</li>
-<li>Each player marks the changes in <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> on his Character Profile card.</li>
-<li>The loser of the Combat Quarter can now choose to continue the combat next game round, or to evade combat.
-<br /><br />If he chooses to continue combat, both character counters stay exactly where they are. Neither player can move during the following Movement Quarter or throw a missile during the Missile Quarter. In the next Combat Quarter, the fight continues but with the defender now becoming the attacker, and vice versa.
-<br /><br />If the loser chooses to evade combat, he may add 2 to his movement rate in the following Movement Quarter. He must move away from his attacker in that quarter. The attacker can attempt to give chase if he wishes, but the loser must always be allowed to move first.</li>
-<li>Any character whose <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> total falls to zero or below is declared dead. The counter remains on the square where the character is killed and becomes an obstruction to movement.</li>
-<li>Any weapons, gold or items can be taken from the body by the victor at the end of the Combat Quarter. The defeated player must hand over the dead character's profile card to the winner of the combat.</li>
-<li>Characters fighting from a higher vantage point (on a table, chair or the bar) may add 1 point to their <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> when fighting an opponent on a floor square.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Gaming Quarter</h4>
-
-<ol>
-<li>In the Gaming Quarter of each round, any Player Character Counter that is occupying a square adjacent to the Gaming Table, and who is not involved in combat, may elect to gamble.</li>
-<li>No gaming can take place if any player's Character Counter is standing on, or if the Croupier is not adjacent to, the Gaming Table.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<p>The procedure for gambling is as follows:</p>
-<ol>
-<li>The Landlord player mixes the Gaming Counters face down.</li>
-<li>Each player in turn calls out a number between 0 and 9 and declares how much they wish to stake (minimum bet 2 Gold Crowns, maximum bet 10).</li>
-<li>When all the numbers and stakes have been announced, the Landlord player reveals one of the counters at random.</li>
-<li>Any player who has called out the same number as that which is revealed wins four times his stake money. If any player has called out a number that is immediately before or after the one revealed, he wins twice his stake money. All other players lose their stake.</li>
-<li>Players may enter or leave the Gaming Table during the Movement Quarter.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</title>
-
-<h2>Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</h2>
-
-<h3>Helghast</h3>
-
-<p>Helghast are undead shape-changers who serve the Darklords of Helgedad. One of the characters (to the exclusion of Lone Wolf) is really one of these creatures in disguise. To determine which player character is the Helghast, follow the procedure outlined below:</p>
-
-<table border="0">
-<tr><th>No. of Players</th><th>Procedure</th></tr>
-<tr><td valign="top">2</td><td>The non-Lone Wolf player chooses one of his four characters to be the Heighast.</td></tr>
-<tr><td valign="top">3-6</td><td>Special Item counters are dealt to the Lone Wolf player first. One of the remaining counters is substituted with the Heighast counter prior to being dealt out. The player character dealt the Helghast counter becomes that creature.</td></tr>
-<tr><td valign="top">7-10</td><td>Lone Wolf and Landlord receive Special Item counters first, then follow same procedure as per 3-6 player game.</td></tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>The objective for the Helghast player is to kill Lone Wolf; this objective takes priority over that shown on the character profile card.</p>
-
-<p>The Helghast player can enter combat without revealing his true identity, and all <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> lost in combat are deducted in the usual way. Should the <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINT</span> total of his 'disguise' fall to zero, the player must reveal his true identity by placing the Helghast counter onto the playing board (on top of his player character counter).</p>
-
-<p>He may then continue to play using the Helghast <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>, <span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span> and <span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span> totals as shown on the playing board.</p>
-
-<p>The Helghast player can choose to reveal his identity at any stage of the game but, in order to keep everyone guessing, it is recommended that he keep his identity a secret for as long as possible.</p>
-
-<p>When the Helghast appears, it can only be killed by a Magical Weapon (Lone Wolf's Magic Spear, the Magic Sword (Special Item) or the Magic Mace (Special Item) are the only weapons that can reduce the Heighast's <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> during combat). All normal weapons are ineffective against it, and all <span class="caps">ENDURANCE POINTS</span> lost by a Helghast in combat with a player character armed with a normal weapon should be ignored.</p>
-
-<h3>Obstructions to Movement</h3>
-
-<ul>
-<li>To climb over a table, reduce movement by 2 squares.</li>
-<li>To climb on to or off of a table, reduce movement by 1 square.</li>
-<li>To pick up an item, reduce movement by 1 square.</li>
-<li>To climb over a dead character, reduce movement by 1 square.</li>
-<li>To leave the ale-house by a window, reduce movement by 2 squares.</li>
-</ul>
-
-<h3>Leaving the Ale-House</h3>
-
-<p>Players may leave the ale-house by any one of the doors or windows shown on the gameboard. They may re-enter by any one of the doors two game rounds later.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</title>
-
-<h2>Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</h2>
-
-<h3>Special Items</h3>
-
-<p>The Laumspur and Alether Special Items can only be used once during the game. When a player chooses to do so, the counter must be shown and then removed from play. The Magic Wand and the Spell Book can only be used twice during the game.</p>
-
-<h3>Hidden Loot Counters</h3>
-
-<p>Players must remain in a square adjacent to a hidden Loot counter for one game round before they can lay claim to it in the Movement Quarter of the following round. Players cannot search for hidden Loot counters if they are involved in combat.</p>
-
-<h3>Winning the Game</h3>
-
-<h4>2-6 Players</h4>
-
-<p>A complete game lasts for 16 game rounds. At the end of the Gaming Quarter of the 16th round, calculate each player's score as follows:</p>
-
-<ul>
-<li>For every character's objective achieved +6 points</li>
-<li>For every character that survives the game +3 points</li>
-<li>For every Special Item you possess +1 point</li>
-<li>For every character you have lost -2 points</li>
-</ul>
-
-<p>The player with the highest score is declared the winner.</p>
-
-<h4>7-10 Players</h4>
-
-<p>The first player to achieve his objective and leave the ale-house by the double doors is declared the winner.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</title>
-
-<h2>Ragadorn Ale-house Brawl</h2>
-
-<h3>Game Round Summary</h3>
-
-<h4>Movement Quarter:</h4>
-<ol>
-<li>Landlord moves <span class="caps">NPC</span>'S.</li>
-<li>Players move (first round clockwise, then alternating anticlockwise/clockwise).</li>
-<li>Characters adjacent can elect to fight or talk.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Missile Quarter:</h4>
-<ol>
-<li>Items that can be thrown by characters are identified.</li>
-<li>Hits/damage are calculated on Missile Chart.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Combat Quarter:</h4>
-<ol>
-<li>Attacker's <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> compared to Defender's <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> to find Combat Ratio.</li>
-<li>Attacker picks Random Number.</li>
-<li>Endurance points lost by attacker and defender found on the Combat Results Table.</li>
-<li>Alter Player Character profile cards.</li>
-<li>Loser of combat chooses to continue combat next round, or evade.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h4>Gaming Quarter:</h4>
-<p>See 'Gaming Table' for details.</p>
-
-<h3>Missile Chart</h3>
-
-<table border="1" cellspacing="0">
-<tr><th rowspan="2">Missile</th><th colspan="4">Target Distance</th><th rowspan="2"><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span> loss</th></tr>
-<tr><th>1</th><th>2/4</th><th>5/7</th><th>8+</th></tr>
-<tr><th>Dagger</th><td>2</td><td>4</td><td>6</td><td>8</td><td>3</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Axe/Other Thrown Weapons</th><td>2</td><td>4</td><td>5</td><td>6</td><td>4</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Chair</th><td>3</td><td>7</td><td>M</td><td>M</td><td>2</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Bottle</th><td>2</td><td>4</td><td>5</td><td>6</td><td>2</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Torch</th><td>2</td><td>4</td><td>5</td><td>6</td><td>3</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Food</th><td>2</td><td>6</td><td>9</td><td>M</td><td>1</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Bucket</th><td>3</td><td>5</td><td>9</td><td>M</td><td>2</td></tr>
-<tr><th>Broom</th><td>2</td><td>6</td><td>M</td><td>M</td><td>1</td></tr>
-</table>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Determine how far target is from thrower.</li>
-<li>Cross-reference missile with target distance on the above chart.</li>
-<li>Pick a number from the <a href="random.htm">Random Number Table</a>.</li>
-<li>If random number is the same or higher than the chart number, the missile hits the target.</li>
-<li>Target loses the number of <span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span> points shown in the <span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span> loss column.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<h3>Obstructions</h3>
-
-<ul>
-<li>Climb onto/off table -1 square</li>
-<li>Climb over body -1 square</li>
-<li>Pick up item -1 square</li>
-<li>Leave via window -2 squares</li>
-</ul>
-
-<h3>Special Items</h3>
-
-<ol>
-<li><b>Magic Sword</b> - +4 to <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span></li>
-<li><b>Ring of Speed</b> - + 2 to <span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span></li>
-<li><b>Elixir of Life</b> - +8 to <span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span> (once only)</li>
-<li><b>Magic Mace</b> - +2 to <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span></li>
-<li><b>Spell Book</b> - Put any player to sleep for two game turns (twice only)</li>
-<li><b>Magic Wand</b> - Stop any player moving for two game turns (twice only)</li>
-<li><b>Magic Talisman</b> - + 4 to <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> when attacked by another player</li>
-<li><b>Golden Shield</b> - + 2 to <span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span> when attacked by another player</li>
-<li><b>Medallion of Stealth</b> - +2 to <span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span></li>
-</ol>
-
-<h3>Helghast Profile</h3>
-
-<ul>
-<li><span class="caps">COMBAT SKILL</span>: 20</li>
-<li><span class="caps">ENDURANCE</span> points: 30</li>
-<li>Gold Crowns: -</li>
-<li>Weapon: Sword</li>
-<li><span class="caps">MOVEMENT</span>: 5</li>
-<li>Objective: Kill Lone Wolf</li>
-</ul>
-
-<h3>Gaming Table</h3>
-
-<ol>
-<li>Landlord mixes Gambling Counters face down.</li>
-<li>Players in turn call out their number and stake money.</li>
-<li>Landlord turns over one Gambling Counter at random.</li>
-<li>Identical number pays 4 x stake money, Number before or after pays 2 x stake money, All other numbers lose stake.</li>
-</ol>
-
-<ul>
-<li>Minimum bet - 2 Gold Crowns</li>
-<li>Maximum bet - 10 Gold Crowns</li>
-</ul>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Realms of Northern Magnamund</title>
-
-<h2>Magnamund Then and Now</h2>
-
-<h3>The Realms of Northern Magnamund</h3>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<h4>The Birth of Magnamund</h4>
-
-<p>In the silent darkness before the creation of Magnamund, a titanic struggle raged between the formless, shapeless Lords of Good and Evil. Ageless and unceasing was their conflict until the Peace of Ishir heralded an uneasy truce between the powers of life and death. Goddess Ishir, High Priestess of the Moon, sealed a promise with Naar, the King of the Darkness, by which their endless war might cease. A great vessel was shaped from the truth of her pledge into which Naar infused the essence of his terrible power. Their creation became Aon, the 'Great Balance', and from this seed grew a universe filled with light and dark, life and death, hope and despair. The Lords of Good and Evil looked down upon Aon in wonder, and so greatly did they desire to enter and control their creation that the Peace of Ishir was ended and their struggle was born anew.</p>
-
-<p>The many jewels of Aon shone brightly in the darkness and swiftly were they claimed by the gods. As one world fell to Evil, another was saved by Good, until just one, the brightest jewel of all, remained unclaimed and unconquered. The great powers marshalled their forces in preparation for the final momentous battle that would decide the fate of Aon, for control over the last world would tip the balance in favour of the victor and banish the defeated to the void from whence they came. And so it was that Magnamund, the last free world of Aon, became a battleground of the gods - the keystone of power in the war between Good and Evil.</p>
-
-<p>The forces of the noble God Kai, Lord of the Sun, were the first to enter the primeval world of Magnamund, and in doing so they became mortal creatures. They chose to dwell in the depths of the oceans where they took the shape of sea dragons of massive size and power. Kai spoke to Nyxator, a dragon of immense wisdom, and warned him of the birth of evil among his brethren.</p>
-
-<p>So Nyxator led the true dragons onto the land and created the realm of Cynx, to avoid the evil spawn of Naar that were hatching in the depths of the sea. In his wisdom, Nyxator created the Lorestones in order to preserve the power bestowed upon him by the great God Kai. The dragons of Naar emerged from the sea and waged war on Cynx, destroying it with a rain of fire that lasted many centuries. Nyxator escaped and rallied his brothers to fight again, but they were defeated and Nyxator was forced to take refuge at the molten core of Magnamund. The sea dragons burned and savaged the land, laying all to waste in an orgy of triumphant destruction. But in doing so they sealed their doom for they were now mortal creatures.</p>
-
-<p>Following their extinction, the King of the Darkness sought to destroy Nyxator by other means. He caused the land to seethe and boil - to erupt, twist, and tear. For two thousand years Magnamund was tortured, but it refused to yield its hidden refugee. In desperation Naar sent forth his most powerful servant - Agarash the Damned. In 6700 <span class="caps">MS</span>, he arose and conquered Southern Magnamund, creating the Doomstones in mockery of the Lorestones of Nyxator. In the depths of his fortress of Naaros, he used them to breed a legion of dreadful forms - the Agarashi - the Creatures of Darkness. They were let loose upon the land and nowhere was safe from their insatiable hunger. The power of Agarash grew unchecked; he forged great weapons of power and raised the dead to do his bidding. He hunted and slew the aged Nyxator in a fiery duel at the core of the earth, and captured the Lorestones. For the gods Ishir and Kai, it was the nadir of their struggle, but in their desperation they conceived a new power to save their cause - the power of magic.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Realms of Southern Magnamund</title>
-
-<h2>Magnamund Then and Now</h2>
-
-<h3>The Realms of Southern Magnamund</h3>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[Illustration]</tt></p>
-
-<h4>Man, Magic and the Moonstone</h4>
-
-<p>In the year 4570 <span class="caps">MS</span>, the gods Ishir and Kai sent forth the magical Elder Magi to challenge the mighty Agarash, servant of Darkness. They undertook a daring assault upon his fortress at Naaros and seized the stolen Lorestones of Nyxator whilst he slept, entranced by their spells. Enraged to a terrible fury, Agarash unleashed his Creatures of Darkness in a great war with the Elder Magi that lasted over one thousand years. But the magicians used their skill to turn his creatures against themselves and, in so doing, brought about the downfall of his great empire.</p>
-
-<p>With the ruin of the Agarashi Empire, the pendulum of fate swung in a favourable arc towards the powers of Good. The Age of the Old Kingdoms welcomed the arrival of new civilizations and new hope for a world scarred by war, but it also saw the emergence of a sinister force. The Cenerese, a race of treacherous Druids, appeared in Central Magnamund shortly before the Great Plague swept slowly and systematically across the world, leaving the Elder Magi and Drodarin peoples decimated in its wake. Their power spread until the arrival of the Herbalish, a holy order devoted to the healing arts, defeated them in a long and bitter war.</p>
-
-<p>In the year 1600 <span class="caps">MS</span>, an accident took place that was to alter the balance and course of history. A race of lesser gods called the Shianti appeared through a 'Shadow Gate' - a door between the material world of Magnarnund and the astral world of Daziarn. As centuries passed, they grew ambitious and sought to increase their knowledge of their new home and discover the secrets of the Daziarn. Their culture spread to the north and east where they were known by several names (Majhan, Suukon, Ancients). Their quest for knowledge was successful and culminated in the creation of the Moonstone, a gem of power formed in the astral Daziarn, that became the focus of their wisdom, their magic and their very existence. It saw the dawn of their Golden Age, an era that brought health and plenty to all creatures of Magnamund. Many humans arrived during this age; the Mythenish and Tianese in the south, the Vassa in the east, the Vaderish, Nael and Aluvians in the west, and the Ice Barbarians and Ulnarians in the north. But the presence of the Shianti, and especially their Moonstone, on Magnamund, disturbed the balance of the conflict between the Lords of Good and Evil.</p>
-
-<p>Ishir appeared to the Shianti and persuaded them to relinquish their Moonstone and exile themselves to the remote Isle of Lorn. The Moonstone was returned to the Daziarn and the Shianti abandoned their cities and began their great exodus. In the years prior to their exile, a new and evil force had arrived in the west, a barbaric horde of warriors called Drakkarim. Their name struck terror in the hearts of men, but they were merely a prelude to a far greater nightmare. Naar, the King of the Darkness, had laboured unceasingly to create new champions of evil, and now his task was complete. In the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 3072, the Darklords appeared and began a terrible war of desecration. The Drakkarim nations, in fear and awe of Darklord power, allied themselves to this new force and constructed huge city-fortresses to dominate the lands that they helped to conquer. Never, since the rise of Agarash the Damned, had Magnamund faced such overwhelming evil. Ishir and Kai, woefully ill-prepared for the speed with which Naar's champions were conquering Magnamund, sent forth a race of men called Sommlending and armed them with wisdom and a great power called the Sommerswerd: the sword of the sun. Their defiant bravery is all that now stands in the path of Darklord domination.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Aran Rolny - Young Scribe</title>
-
-<h2>Sommerlund</h2>
-
-<h3>Aran Rolny - Young Scribe</h3>
-
-<p>My name is Aran Rolny, and I count myself the luckiest boy in all Sommerlund. When I was young, my father sent me to the household of Baron Calder of Anskaven, to learn to read and write and wield a sword. Well, I must confess that I was the clumsiest boy in the castle, and I now remember with dread the days spent in the keep practising with sword and shield. The other boys would always tease me when it was my turn to fight. 'Stumbletoes Rolny,' they used to shout, 'you'll never be a knight!' No matter how hard I tried I always managed to drop my sword, or trip over my shield, or both. Then one day, the most humbling of my life, I knocked myself unconscious with the hilt of my sword. When I awoke, the castle keep was echoing to the laughter of my classmates. They rolled around on the dusty ground, tears streaming down their faces as they laughed themselves hoarse at my misfortune. It was awful. The news reached the Baron and he ordered that I be excused my sword duties for fear I would injure myself further. He set me to work in the castle library, where I was placed under the supervision of the Chief Scribe. I learnt to scrape and polish parchment, to cut a quill and prepare the ink for my master. I was his best student and the only boy allowed to write upon his parchments. I loved to sit in his high-backed chair, with its high arms and footstool, with the sunlight streaming down upon a polished parchment laid out before my ink and pen.</p>
-
-<p>It was early winter when my master told me the most joyous news. My work had come to the attention of Baron Medar of Tyso, the Chancellor of the Realm. So impressed was he by the neatness of my script, that he had requested I be sent into his service at the Chancery of the Privy Seal and, to my delight, my master agreed. A special messenger arrived at the castle to collect me, and in his charge he had a chest of solid oak. My heart skipped a beat as I opened the lid, for it contained the wardrobe of a Chancery scribe: a robe of blue silk, breeches of velvet and the finest pair of buckled brown shoes that I had ever seen. The robe was trimmed with lamb's fur and upon the sleeve was the embroidered seal of Baron Medar and my name in golden thread below it.</p>
-
-<p>That evening in the Great Hall, after food and prayers, the Baron himself announced to the assembled household the news of my appointment. The voices that once teased and cajoled me were now filled with praise for my achievement. It was the happiest, proudest moment of my life.</p>
-
-<p>A year has passed since I left Anskaven castle and my world has changed in many ways. My days are now filled with the drafting of royal letters, the issue of summons and papers of state. I have my own horse, a small staff of messengers and the friendship of the King's court. Yet I often recall the day I stumbled with my sword and reflect upon it, not with shame, but with a smile.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Skyrider</title>
-
-<h2>Modelling Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Skyrider</h3>
-
-<p>This is the flying ship, Skyrider, which provides the setting for a fierce aerial battle between Lone Wolf and a pack of Drakkarim mounted on Kraan in Shadow on the Sand. Standing on the prow is Banedon, the vessel's captain, Journeymaster to the Guild of the Crystal Star. The crew, dwarves from the mountain kingdom of Bor, are below. Just as Skyrider was once a conventional water-borne craft so the model opposite started life as a model ship in kit form. Only the hull and deck were actually used in the model overleaf; everything else was built from scraps of card, balsa wood and other bits. Overleaf is a diagram of the Skyrider and instructions for building it. If you can't find exactly the same materials, don't worry. Use what you do have to create a unique flying ship.</p>
-
-<p>The diagram below shows a profile of the Skyrider with some notes explaining what each part of the vessel is made from. The most important part is the hull. If you feel that buying a brand new kit just for the hull is extravagant, you could make your own from card. A modified version of a death-hulk's hull with deeper sides and a flat bottom would look very good.</p>
-
-<p>If you are using a hull from a plastic kit, you should glue it together using polystyrene cement. Everything else on the model can be glued into place using a contact adhesive, but small metal items are best cemented together with Superglue. (<span class="caps">NB</span> Be careful not to get glue on your fingers.) Once the hull is complete, you can build cabins and deckhouses from card and glue them one on top of each other. Alternatively, cabins and cockpits can be raised up on staging and the space underneath used for deck storage. The model in the photograph has a central cabin built straight onto the deck with a bridge above it, a forward observation cockpit and a small house-shaped cabin at the rear all built up on staging made from balsa strip.</p>
-
-<p>The Skyrider's mast was part of another old ship kit but could be made from the thin dowel available in model shops, as were the ribs stiffening the bat-like sails. The outriggers are built from balsa strip. Ready-made accessories from model shops have been used for deck cargo, treasure chests, shields, rolled-up tarpaulins, crates and sacks. Try model railways shops for useful boxes and bags, or you can make your own from balsa wood and modelling clay. Standing in the cockpit at the prow, Banedon is one of Citadel Miniature's Lone Wolf figures. Unless you want a static display, don't glue the figures down - characters in role-playing games move around a lot. The Skyrider's rigging is made from thin wire. You can use fuse wire but florist's wire is best. On completion, the ship was painted with modelling enamels.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Sommerlund</title>
-
-<h2>Sommerlund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Royal Estates, Fryelund and Baronial Provinces</h3>
-
-<p>Of all the lands of Northern Magnamund, one only has defied the awesome might of the Darklands. Sommerlund - 'the land of the sun' - is now poised to fight a war which will decide the fate of the whole continent. The resolve of her people and the bravery of her warriors is seen as a shining example, a beacon of hope to all who fear the terror that follows Darklord domination. Only through Sommerlund's continued vigilance and stolid determination to survive will the future of the Lastlands be secured.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Royal Estates of King Ulnar V</h4>
-<p>The Royal Estates encompass the capital of Holmgard, and much of the richly forested vale of Central Sommerlund. Stewardship of the estate rests with the Marshal of the Realm, Crown Prince Pelathar, the King's only son. In addition, all highways, bridges and forests fall within this royal fiefdom.
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Baronial Confederation of Toran</h4>
-<p>Although it is recognized as a baronial province, Toran is a confederation of guilds that dominate the social, political and economic life of the city. All positions of high rank are held by guildsmen, the most influential under the control of the magician's guild - the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Baronial Province of Ruanon</h4>
-<p>Located far to the south, Ruanon is a remote province under the control of Baron Oren Vanalund. The gold and precious gems that are mined from the Maaken Range yield an important source of revenue for Sommerlund.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The County of Tyso</h4>
-<p>Control of this small but wealthy coastal region rests with the Seneschal of Tyso: Baron Tor Medar. In addition to his county duties, the Baron holds the office of Chancellor of the Realm, and is one of the King's most trusted advisors.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Baronial Province of Anskavern</h4>
-<p>This northern agricultural province is controlled by Baron Avan Caldar, Steward of the Royal Court and Commander of the Royal Fleet. The city of Anskavern has long had a naval tradition, with its fishing fleet being the largest in all the Lastlands.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Fryelund of the Kai</h4>
-<p>The lands contained by the River Tor in the north, and the River Unoram to the south, traditionally have belonged to the warrior lords of the Kai; although it was not until after their massacre that the province was declared 'fryelund', and given into the command and protection of Lone Wolf, the last of the Kai.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Southlund Marches</h4>
-<p>This vast province to the south of Holmgard, falls under the jurisdiction of Baron Vea Galt. It is an honorary title, for the Southlund Marches are a rolling expanse of plains, farmed by fryemen of the realm who are outside the feudal order of Northern Sornmerlund. The 'keeping of the King's peace' is enforced by the Border Rangers, who in turn answer to Baron Galt in Holmgard. The Baron is also Keeper of the Privy Seal.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<h4>The Kirlundin Isles</h4>
-<p>There are six islands in the Kirlundin chain, and collectively they fall under the baronial fiefdom of Knight-commander Baleon Medar, brother of Tor, the Baron of Tyso. The inhabitants of these rocky isles are famed seafarers, their ships protecting the coastline from Anskavern to Holmgard.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Saga of Sommerlund</title>
-
-<h2>Sommerlund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Saga of Sommerlund</h3>
-
-<p>In the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 3434, a host of fair-haired warriors led by a fierce and lordly king called Kian, came to the Lastlands in ships of yellowed oak. They had sailed across the northern void, through storm and ice, to turn back a tide of great evil that threatened to consume all. For three centuries the Darklords had conquered the lands of Northern Magnamund, destroying everything in their path. But the arrival of the Sommlending reversed their victories in the east and drove them back beyond the Durncrag mountains, into the wastelands that they themselves had created.</p>
-
-<p>And so it was that the kingdom of Sommerlund was born in a land of fertile beauty, saved from destruction at the hands of Lord Vashna and his champions of evil. King Kian's victory was but the first battle in a long and vindictive war to be waged over the coming centuries. Vashna had sworn to destroy Sommerlund and in the depths of his stronghold, within the black city of Helgedad, he schemed and plotted the downfall of the sun-realm. In the face of this constant threat, King Kian ordered the construction of four great cities: Holmgard, Toran, Anskaven and Tyso, and a number of smaller fortifications to guard the mountain passes through the Durncrag Range. Command of these cities, forts and surrounding lands was given into the charge of the Barons of Sommerlund, high-ranking warrior lords who had achieved great honour and distinction during the war against Vashna. The barons ruled over the Sommlending who lived and worked their lands, and they in turn were bound to serve the king, supplying him with soldiers to protect the realm. Although King Kian had decreed that 'every Sommlending must have a lord', most men, except the poorest, considered themselves free. Many skilled craftsmen, especially in the cities, banded together to form guilds, and officials, such as the Mayor and Lord-Justice of the City Court, were often elected from their ranks. Rich merchants or wealthy farmers were sometimes declared 'Fryemen of the Realm', a rank which freed them from service to a Baron. For acts of great honour or bravery, too, the King could award the title 'Fryearl of Sommerlund', a rare and greatly coveted title that raised a man to the level of a Baron in wealth and standing.</p>
-
-<p>With the threat of war so constant, every child (girl and boy) was trained in the use of weapons from an early age. This training was organized by the barons and took place in the grounds of their castles. Any child who displayed a natural instinct for combat was placed into the household of a Knight of the Realm, where they were groomed for the Sommlending army. Similarly, the magician's guild, the Brotherhood of the Crystal Star, recruited children into their ranks at an early age. Those who showed exceptional intelligence or a natural ability to grasp the secrets of their craft were raised and educated into the ways of magic at their guildhall in Toran.</p>
-
-<p>Following the defeat of Lord Vashna at the Great Battle of Maakengorge, the Baron of Toran, a noble warrior who had distinguished himself during that battle, began a quest for the ancient Lorestones of Nyxator in order to acquire their wisdom. His quest was successful and in the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 3810, he took the name 'Sun Eagle' and established the Order of the Kai Lords, an elite warrior caste whose study of martial disciplines was to ensure the future security of Sommerlund. But in spite of that victory at Maakengorge, and the birth of the Kai Lords, the kingdom of Sommerlund was often attacked in the coming centuries. Only the strength of its people, and its alliance with the free kingdom of Durenor proved steadfast and unshakable in these years of conflict.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Warriors of Sommerlund</title>
-
-<h2>Sommerlund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Warriors of Sommerlund</h3>
-
-<p>The people of Sommerlund have always lived in the shadow of war, and the threat of Darklord invasion has demanded that they remain constantly prepared for battle. For centuries, they have grown strong in the face of this intimidation, and their army, although small, is the best equipped, trained and motivated force in all of Magnamund.</p>
-
-<p>Supreme commander of this force is the King, to whom all Sommlending swear an oath of loyalty upon reaching their seventh birthday. It is called the 'Oath of Fehmarn', and it is celebrated and renewed once a year, on the first day of spring, to remind all Sommlending that their highest duty is to protect their country by serving their King in time of need. A standing army, composed of the Royal Guard and Border Rangers, is maintained at all times, and new recruits for these regular units are trained and supplied by the Barons and Knights of the Realm. In war time, the Barons call upon each knight in their province to supply a troop of 200 soldiers, known as a 'charge'. Several charges combine under the command of a baron to form a 'cassel', and three to five cassels comprise an army. Additional troops are supplied by the city guilds in the form of Townsmen Regiments, led by Guildmarshals, and militia whose role it is to defend the city walls and protect the civilians.</p>
-
-<p>The Brotherhood of the Crystal Star are called upon to provide sorcerers gifted in battle magic. They are attached to a cassel where they aid and advise the commander. Prior to their massacre, the Kai Lords formed a cassel of mounted and unmounted warriors, and Kai Masters were placed in command of Sommlending armies.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<p>Baron Tor Medar - Seneschal of Tyso
-<br />Baron Medar is Chief Advisor to the King. In his possession is the Great Seal of Sommerlund, under which are issued all the important royal proclamations. His wealthy county has 2400 well-trained retainers.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<p>Kirlundin Naval Marine
-<br />The ships that guard and patrol the coast carry a retinue of marines to search suspicious vessels. They are often involved in ship-to-ship combat with rogue traders from Ragadorn, and pirate raiders.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<p>Ruanese Man-at-Arms
-<br />The miners who work the gold-rich Maaken Range are frequently attacked by hostile bandits and ferocious Giaks. The Baron maintains a charge of Men-at-Arms to defend them.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<p>Toranese Archer City Guilds Regiment
-<br />Comprised of apprentices to the guilds of Toran, this regiment is regarded with fear by Sommerlund's enemies. They carry a range of special arrow-heads and their accuracy is unmatched.</p>
-
-<p class="illustration"><tt>[illustration]</tt></p>
-<p>Sommlending Knight of the Realm
-<br />This noble knight owns a castle and lands in Anskaven. His household trains young warriors for battle, and he personally commands a charge of his own landed retainers (200+ men) in times of war. He is an expert horseman and a master of battle lore. His war horse responds instantly to the commands of the rider. Its ferocity in combat is matched only by its indefatigable stamina.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Jac Taynor - Farmer's Son</title>
-
-<h2>Sommerlund</h2>
-
-<h3>Jac Taynor - Farmer's Son</h3>
-
-<p>My name is Jac Taynor and I live in the village of Stonefurrow with my mother, my father and my brother Lon. Stonefurrow consists of the village hall and thirty-one cottages, mostly built on either side of the highway leading to Tyso. There is a blacksmithy, an alehouse, a water mill, and beyond the cottages there are five great fields in which we grow our crops. No one, except Reeve Ladnor, has ever travelled further than thirty miles away, though my younger brother and I have often been to the market at Tyso, which is ten miles to the north. All the land of Stonefurrow belongs to the lord of the manor, Knight Evald of Worlan. Since he cannot work the land himself, it is shared among the villagers and in return they pay him their taxes. My family moved here from the neighbouring village of Boonwold when I was very young. Our old cottage blew down in a storm, and my father was given permission to build a new one near Stonefurrow stream. He's a farmer and I help him work in our fields behind the cottages. We're lucky because we own four oxen and a plough. My father steers the plough and I rake the broken earth with my harrow before planting our wheat seed. Come the spring, the ploughing starts again, but this time I sow barley instead. It's hard work but I enjoy it, especially at harvest time when Knight Evald comes to the village hall and gives a feast. There are minstrels, dancing and all kinds of entertainments, but none have been as good as last year's Harvestfest; it was then I learnt all about magic.</p>
-
-<p>It was a hot and sunny day. Since early morning there had been sports such as wrestling, archery tournaments and casting the stone and, as the sun began to set, the festival moved into the village hall. My brother and I had found a hiding place up in the rafters where we could watch everybody dancing and singing without them seeing us, and I had my fishing line which I used to hook cakes from the table below. An hour after sunset, the Knight's heralds sounded a fanfare on their shiny brass trumpets and the floor was cleared. A magician, all the way from the city of Casiorn, came in and stood on the table directly below where my brother and I were hiding, and called for everyone's attention. I'd seen the street-magicians of Tyso before, but they were not as impressive as this brown-skinned man with his hat and cape of silk. He said he was 'Zalatar the Magnificent', and with a wave of his hand there was a flash and bang and suddenly he was sitting astride a little white donkey. Everyone began cheering and clapping as he rode around the hall, and they threw half-crowns into his silk hat which he held at arm's length. My brother and I tried not to laugh, for high in the roof we could see that Zalatar had hidden his donkey under the tablecloth. The flash must have blinded the villagers, for they seemed not to notice the magician pulling him out. But we had seen how his magic was worked. I thought it was all good fun until I suddenly noticed how much gold he was taking from the villagers: his tricks were stealing all they had earned from the harvest. It was then that I decided to try some magic of my own.</p>
-
-<p>As the performance came to an end, he returned to the table below to gather his belongings together. In his haste he didn't notice the fishing line hooking his pouch of ill-gotten gold. I gave a swift tug and the pouch flew up in the air and landed in my lap. You should have seen his face as he reached the door and discovered that the money had disappeared! My brother and I jumped down from the rafters to tell Knight Evald what we had seen. He praised our honesty, and as the heralds returned the gold to the startled villagers, he warned them in future to take greater care of their money.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Magnamund Then and Now</title>
-
-<h2>Magnamund Then and Now</h2>
-<h3>The Ages of Magnamund</h3>
-
-<p>All time is reckoned by the date on which the Moonstone (<span class="caps">MS</span>) was created by the Shianti. The years before its creation are dnoted by the date first, e.g. 4906 <span class="caps">MS</span>. The years after its creation by the date after, e.g. <span class="caps">MS</span> 3799. All historical information in this book is relevant to the year <span class="caps">MS</span> 5050.</p>
-
-<h4>Chronological Tables of Events</h4>
-
-<dl>
-<dt>Age of the Dragons (13000 - 10148 <span class="caps">MS</span>)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(12750) Dragons emerge from the oceans</li>
- <li>(12209) Nyxator creates the Lorestones</li>
- <li>(11890) The War of the Wyrms</li>
- <li>(10869) Cynx destroyed</li>
- <li>(10148) Nyxator exiled to the core of Magnamund</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of Entropy (10148 - 9000 <span class="caps">MS</span>)</dt>
-<dt>Age of Chaos (9000 - 6750 <span class="caps">MS</span>)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(8560) Tentarias splits Magnamund</li>
- <li>(8011 - 6750) Volcanic activity re-shapes most of North/South Magnamund</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of Eternal Night (6750 - 4608 <span class="caps">MS</span>)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(6700) Agarash the Damned rises in Magnamund</li>
- <li>(4906) The Great Dragon Nyxator is slain by Agarash - Lorestones Captured</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of War (4608 - 3572 <span class="caps">MS</span>)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(4608) Elder Magi appear (central Magnamund)</li>
- <li>(3572) Defeat of Agarash & destruction of Naaros</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of Old Kingdoms (4608 - 1600 <span class="caps">MS</span>)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(2514) Great Plague Decimates Drodarin & Elder Magi</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of Awakening (1600 <span class="caps">MS</span> - 0)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(1600) Shianti appear</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Golden Age of the Shianti (0 - <span class="caps">MS</span> 3004)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(0) Moonstone created by the Shianti</li>
- <li>(2591) Drakkarim invade North Magnamund</li>
- <li>(3004) Ishir appears to the Shianti - Moonstone returned to the Daziarn plane - Exodus begins</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of the Black Moon (<span class="caps">MS</span> 3004 - 3799)</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(3072) Darklords appear in Magnamund - Giaks bred</li>
- <li>(3150) Drakkarim nations ally to the Darklords</li>
- <li>(3192) Rise of Vashna</li>
- <li>(3400) Doomwolves, Kraan & Zlanbeast bred in Helgedad</li>
- <li>(3434) Sommlending arrive in North Magnamund - Darklords pushed back beyond Durncrag Mountains</li>
- <li>(3450) Holmgard built</li>
- <li>(3520-50) Helghast Wars</li>
- <li>(3785) Vashna begins the Black Muster in preparation for war with Sommerlund</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-<dt>Age of the Sun-Star (<span class="caps">MS</span> 3799 - )</dt>
-<dd>
- <ul>
- <li>(3799) Battle of Moytura Pass - Defeat of Darklord Vashna at Great Battle of Maakengorge - Death of Ulnar I</li>
- <li>(3810) Kai Monastery established</li>
- <li>(3952) Ljuk built</li>
- <li>(4219) Siege of Kai Monastery</li>
- <li>(4401 - 18) War of the Lorestone (Stornlands)</li>
- <li>(4434) Book of the Magnakai lost</li>
- <li>(4551) Rise of Vassagonian Empire</li>
- <li>(4702) Great Khordaim War</li>
- <li>(4771) Death of the Black Zakhan</li>
- <li>(5050) Invasion of Sommerlund - Massacre of the Kai - Defeat of Darklord Zagarna - Grey Star leaves Isle of Lorn</li>
- </ul>
-</dd>
-</dl>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: Title Page</title>
-
-<h1>The Magnamund Companion</h1>
-<h2>The Complete Guide to the World of <br>Lone Wolf & Grey Star</h2>
-
-<p class="title">Joe Dever and Gary Chalk</p>
-
-<p>Internet Edition published by <a href="http://www.bigfoot.com/~TheAonProject/">The Aon Project</a>. Because of the graphical nature of the original publication, we've made many adaptations. Where we have made corrections, they will be noted in the <a href="errata.htm">Errata</a>.</p>
-
-<p>Publishing Date:</p>
-
-<p>Copyright © 1986 Joe Dever. Distribution of this Internet Edition is restricted under the terms of the <a href="license.htm">Aon Project End User License</a>.</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Vaderish/Aluvian Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Vaderish/Aluvian Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Lencia</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: King Sarnac <span class="caps">III</span>
-<br />Capital: Heimstorm
-<br />Population: 92,000 +
-<br />Resources: Copper, silver, tin, agriculture, fish, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<p>This rich and fertile land was the first to be settled by the Vaderish peoples in <span class="caps">MS</span> 1007. Migration continued rapidly into other provinces, but the elder Vaderish settled in Lencia and built many ports, including the great city port of Helmstorm. They prospered from their command of the western Tentarias until the arrival of the Drakkarim in <span class="caps">MS</span> 2591. Nyras, formerly Northern Lencia, was lost to them during the Darkdawn War (<span class="caps">MS</span> 2606-10) and, in spite of many Lencian crusades, it has remained under their control ever since.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Magador</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: King Vanagrom <span class="caps">VI</span>
-<br />Capital: Helgor
-<br />Population: 82,000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, copper, bronin, gold, silver, furs
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-<p>The peoples who settled in this territory at the source of the River Storn were mixed groups of Vaderish and Aluvian origin. The ore-rich mountains of its northern provinces were extensively mined, and brought great wealth to its people. However, the treasures of Magador soon attracted outlaw bands and robber barons who fought for possession of the land. In <span class="caps">MS</span> 3657, the royal household was murdered, and the pretender Prince Dolgorn acceded to the throne. It is rumoured that the present ruler, King Vanagrom <span class="caps">VI</span>, is a puppet of the Darklords.</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Lyris</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: King Konral <span class="caps">XI</span>
-<br />Capital: Varetta
-<br />Population: 40,000 +
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, iron ore, mercenaries
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<p>With the founding of the city state of Varetta (<span class="caps">MS</span> 1270), reputedly upon the site of the ancient realm of Cynx, the migration of the Vaderish peoples slowed to a halt and gradually the precincts of the city expanded to encompass the lands bordering the River Storn. During the War of the Lorestone, the power of the King was usurped by his sons, each claiming an equal right to his throne. Their greed led to civil war and conflicts with neighbouring states eager to exploit this disunity. The current ruler has little control over the warmongering princes of Lyris.</p>
-
-<h4>The Freelands of Talestria</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: Queen Evaine
-<br />Capital: Garthen
-<br />Population: 53,000 +
-<br />Resources: Timber, fish, agriculture
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<p>The river valleys of Talestria were wrested from the Agarashi during the Wars of Restitution (<span class="caps">MS</span> 1660). Under the banner of King Varnos <span class="caps">II</span>, the Talestrians pushed the creatures of darkness back into the stagnant swamps of the Danarg and built border forts to defend their new realm. Strong alliances with Bor and Palmyrion ensured peace, but with the coming of the Drakkarim this peace was shattered. Persistent raids and incursions from Ogia have decimated the once-fertile northland, and the Talestrians are now hard pressed to defend their homeland from the Ogian aggressors.</p>
-
-<h4>The Protectorate of Cincoria</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: Margrave Vactor <span class="caps">XXIV</span>
-<br />Capital: Quilla
-<br />Population: 68,000
-<br />Resources: Timber, agriculture, shipbuilding, silver
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Kingdom of Delden</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: King Naumon <span class="caps">III</span>
-<br />Capital: Luyen
-<br />Population: 65,000 +
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, timber, shipbuilding, ore
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<h4>The Unified Principalites of Eldenora</h4>
-
-<p>Ruler: Prince Cillan of Tyssek
-<br />Capital: Duadon
-<br />Population: 137,000 +
-<br />Resources: Timber, agriculture, silver, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<h4>The Principality of Eru</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Prince Graygor
-<br />Capital: Humbold
-<br />Population: 13,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, copper, tin, gold, gems
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Dukedom of Malia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Duke Isak, Freelordain of Halia
-<br />Capital: Saidor
-<br />Population: 12,000
-<br />Resources: Timber, tin, copper
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Leaguelands of Ilion</h4>
-<p>Ruler: League of the Sword (council of Elder Knights)
-<br />Capital: Feravan
-<br />Population: 55,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, shipbuilding, copper, horses
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Grand Duchy of Kasland</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Archduke Chalamis
-<br />Capital: Casala
-<br />Population: 180,000 +
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, timber, fish, shipbuilding, copper
-<br />Currency: Orla (2 Orla = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Great Union of Lunarlia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: King Aluvaria <span class="caps">XV</span>
-<br />Capital: Avalar
-<br />Population: 300,000 +
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, iron ore, timber, shipbuilding, copper, gems, bronin
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Republic of Palmyrion</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Elector Manatine of Vanamor
-<br />Capital: Vanamor
-<br />Population: 156,000 +
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, timber, fish, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<title>The Magnamund Companion: The Vassa Nations</title>
-
-<h2>The Nations of Magnamund</h2>
-
-<h3>The Vassa Nations</h3>
-
-<h4>The Empire of Vassagonia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Zakhan Moudalla
-<br />Capital: Barrakeesh
-<br />Population: 1,000,000 +
-<br />Resources: Gold, gems, rare minerals, spices, agriculture, silver, platinum, copper, bronin, iron ore, fish, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown
-<p>This rich and powerful empire owes its wealth and status to the ruthless imperialism of the Black Zakhan, a former ruler, of Vassagonia. Under his iron rule, the nomadic Vassa tribes of the Dry Main united and waged war on their weaker neighbours, capturing much land and many resources in the north and west. The current ruler is old and has no heir to claim his throne - one of the richest thrones in all of Magnamund.</p>
-
-<h4>The Empire of Shadaki</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Shasarak the Wytch-king
-<br />Capital: Shadaki
-<br />Population: 850,000 +
-<br />Resources: Fishery, agriculture shipbuilding, timber, iron ore, gold, copper, bronin, silver, rare gems, horses, spices
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)
-<p>Formerly a collection of remote city states which were defeated and subsequently ruled over by the invading nomads of the Sadi desert, this nation rose to power under the rulership of Shasarak the Wytch-king. Its capital was built to celebrate the unification of the Vassa and Sadi peoples, and to mark the fall of Jazer, the original province of Shadaki. Shasarak dedicated himself to the expansion of the realm building a mighty iron-clad fleet in preparation for the War of the Winds. Victory in this war brought the downfall of the neighbouring states and their occupation by Shadakine armies. Elated by victory, the Shadakine empire chose to declare war on their distant relatives - the Vassagonians of Northern Magnamund. A massive invasion ended in disaster for the Shadaki at the Battle of the Tentarium, in which both the fleet and the army were devastated. This disastrous war paved the way for rebellion among its subjugated neighbours, and led to the uprising of Karnali.</p>
-
-<h4>The Wildlands</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Overlord Lachlan
-<br />Capital: Ragadorn
-<br />Population: 20,000
-<br />Resources: Fish, shipbuilding
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown
-<p>Formerly Northern Cloeasia, this region was laid waste during the formation of the Maakengorge and the geological upheaval that followed. The city state of Ragadorn, by virtue of its coastal-location was the only major city to survive. It attracted a motley crowd of bandits and fugitives from justice who, by fair means and foul, took control of the city's administration. In spite of its sordid past, Ragadorn has become a major free trade port of Northern Magnamund.</p>
-
-<h4>The Free State of Casiorn</h4>
-<p>Ruler: High-Mayor Kordas
-<br />Capital: Casiorn
-<br />Population: 30,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, commerce
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown
-<p>Casiorn, the city of merchants, was constructed in <span class="caps">MS</span> 3074 as a fortified city state. Its merchants have grown exceedingly rich from trade between the Lastlands and Central Magnamund, yet their influence has spread no further than the immediate environs of their city. Their leader, High-Mayor Kordas, is reputedly one of the richest men in Northern Magnamund, with an estimated personal fortune in excess of ten million gold crowns.</p>
-
-<h4>The Great Sadi Desert</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Shasarak the Wytch-king
-<br />Capital: None
-<br />Population: 80,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, gems, gold, silver
-<br />Currency: Noble (1 Noble = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Zultanate of Cloeasia</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Zultan Guldarra
-<br />Capital: Kadan
-<br />Population: 28,000
-<br />Resources: Iron ore, copper, agriculture, shipbuilding, fish, rare cloths, gems
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<h4>The Republic of Anari</h4>
-<p>Ruler: President Dabudei
-<br />Capital: Tahou
-<br />Population: 61,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, minerals, gold, silver, timber, iron ore <br />Currency: Lune (4 Lune = 1 Gold Crown)</p>
-
-<h4>The Imperial Emirate of Kakush</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Emir Chotan
-<br />Capital: Nikesa
-<br />Population: 76,000
-<br />Resources: Agriculture, timber, iron ore, gold, minerals, bronin
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
-<h4>The Lakuri Isles</h4>
-<p>Ruler: Captain Khadro
-<br />Capital: Kita Cove
-<br />Population: 1500
-<br />Resources: Piracy
-<br />Currency: Gold Crown</p>
-
--->
-
- <section class="numbered" id="numbered">
- <meta><title>Numbered Sections</title></meta>
-
- <data>
-
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect1">
- <meta><title>1</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A sense of foreboding hangs over you as you mount your horse and head towards the city's south gate. There, a couple of tired night guards grumble wearily at your demand for the gate to be opened.</p>
- <p>'What's the hurry?' they growl. The door finally opens and you gallop through the arch.</p>
- <p>Half a mile beyond a stone bridge you see a signpost. An arrow pointing to the south says, 'Meadowood 1/2 mile/Holmgard 80 miles', and the other arrow, pointing west says simply, 'Old Mine Road'.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to continue south along the highway, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you decide to take the road heading west, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect2">
- <meta><title>2</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Shouting your power-word, you point at the snarling Giaks. The lightning bolt breaks into several smaller energy pulses that rip into the evil warriors, sending them tumbling in all directions. Seizing the opportunity, you turn and run deeper into the ruined temple.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect3">
- <meta><title>3</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Reining your horse to a halt, you stare down at the two dead Rangers. Their chests are scorched as if they were both struck by lightning. A Sword and a Mace lie close by. You may take either of these weapons.</p>
- <choice idref="sect31"><link-text>Turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect4">
- <meta><title>4</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The one-roomed hut is damp and deserted. You scan the moss-covered walls for a good hiding place and your attention is caught by a large stone fireplace. You waste no time in climbing up the flue. Minutes later you hear the Giaks enter the hut in search of you. You try to keep as still as possible but you are desperate to sneeze.</p>
- <choice idref="sect74">If you have the spell of Silence, <link-text>turn to 74</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect22">If you do not possess this spell, <link-text>turn to 22</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect5">
- <meta><title>5</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A search of the cupboards uncovers 2 Gold Crowns, enough food for one Meal, and the old man's Silver Warhammer. If you wish to take this, mark it on your <a idref='action'>Action Chart</a> as a Special Item which you carry tucked into your belt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect6">
- <meta><title>6</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Quickly, take cover in the forest,' you shout to Daron and Thelda. But their little pony is terrified by the black-winged Kraan. It panics and gallops off into the trees on the other side of the highway. You are forced to ride deeper into the forest to avoid the black arrows of their Giak riders.</p>
- <choice idref="sect73"><link-text>Turn to 73</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect7">
- <meta><title>7</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A few minutes later you see a line of wagons on the highway ahead. A group of merchants are arguing with a patrol of Border Rangers who stand guard at a barricade. The Rangers are refusing to allow anyone to pass through the village of Meadowood. 'No good you trying,' calls a disgruntled coachman.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to ask the Rangers to allow you through, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect57">If you wish to stop and talk to the coachman, <link-text>turn to 57</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect8">
- <meta><title>8</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cast your spell and catch all three of them by surprise. They struggle to free themselves but to no avail. The Kraan, fearing its riders have fallen into the clutches of a hideous monster, flies away to avoid a similar fate. The path is now clear and you seize your chance of escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect47"><link-text>Turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect9">
- <meta><title>9</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Suddenly, a wave of pain makes you scream out. Two arrows have passed through your chest and back, smashing the air from your lungs. You fall from the saddle, crashing to the soft earth with a terrible jolt.</p>
- <p>The last thing you hear are gasps of horror as the Rangers recognize your sky-blue robes.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect10">
- <meta><title>10</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As night falls, you reach the tiny village of Oak Hill, less than twenty miles from the Monastery of the Kai. There is no tavern here, but the blacksmith is well known for his generous hospitality.</p>
- <choice idref="sect66">If you wish to stop at the blacksmith's house, <link-text>turn to 66</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect79">If you choose to sleep out in the open, <link-text>turn to 79</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect11">
- <meta><title>11</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>For over an hour you move stealthily through the trees, straining for the sound of an approaching Giak patrol or nearby Kraan.</p>
- <p>Gradually the trees begin to thin out and you can see the ruins of an ancient temple. You take refuge beneath a fallen pillar. As you catch your breath, you remove the Guildmaster's envelope from your robe. Now that war has begun, it will be safer to commit its contents to memory rather than allow it to fall into enemy hands.</p>
- <choice idref="sect42"><link-text>Turn to 42</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect12">
- <meta><title>12</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you rush into the fray, the familiar sound of Kraan wings return. Hovering above you are six of the fearsome creatures. The peasants panic and flee, leaving you to face the Kraan alone.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37">If you wish to stand and fight, <link-text>turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect59">If you wish to try to escape, <link-text>turn to 59</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect13">
- <meta><title>13</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Hurriedly, you cast the spell, circling your palm behind your head to form the shield. An instant later, two arrows just miss your back. Your magic has saved your life, but it has not protected you from a third arrow that gouges your left leg. Lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>Wincing with pain, you press on until you have left the archers far behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect14">
- <meta><title>14</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You soon learn that your companions' names are Daron and Thelda, and that their father owns a bakery at Searsby.</p>
- <p>An hour has passed when you hear the beat of huge wings. A great cloud of black-winged creatures appears flying in a vast formation that darkens the sky. Your heart sinks. The Darklords, the ancient enemy of your people, are attacking. War has begun.</p>
- <choice idref="sect49">If you wish to continue along the highway, <link-text>turn to 49</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you decide to seek the shelter of the forest, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect15">
- <meta><title>15</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The track continues for several miles down a steep wooded hillside to arrive at a little bridge spanning a deep, crystal-clear stream. A young woman dressed in padded leather armour stands there, warily watching you approach.</p>
- <p>'Where are you bound for, young wizard?' she asks.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you wish to tell her your destination, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect76">If you demand that she allow you across the bridge, <link-text>turn to 76</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect16">
- <meta><title>16</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Giaks form a semi-circle, holding you at bay with the points of their spears. Suddenly, a clutch of Kraan glide across the trees and drop their riders almost on top of you. Their leader screams 'Darg!' and, as one, the Giaks charge.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect17">
- <meta><title>17</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you whisper the spell-chant, a wave of fear numbs your senses.</p>
- <p>You are in the presence of a great and malicious evil. The woman senses your fear and a smile spreads across her face.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect18">
- <meta><title>18</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your quick thinking saves you from the full impact of the lightning bolt. It passes close by your head, blistering the skin on your cheek and causing your hair to smoulder. The Helghast screams a terrible cry that claws at your mind (lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the pain quickly fades as you gallop away from the village.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46"><link-text>Turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect19">
- <meta><title>19</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As you leave your hiding place, a cry echoes in your ears. 'Ogadak - Dok taag!' You thrust the envelope back into your robes and clamber across the ruins. Giaks appear as if from nowhere; one has his arm drawn back ready to throw a spear.</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect51">If you wish to try to dodge the spear, <link-text>turn to 51</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect20">
- <meta><title>20</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You whisper the spell under your breath. A shiver runs the length of your spine as you sense evil. It comes, not from the cabin, but from the wooded hills beyond. It is many miles away but you can feel it drawing closer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to hide in the cabin, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to turn away from the approaching evil and press on through the forest, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect21">
- <meta><title>21</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You arrive in time to witness a handful of peasants armed with pitchforks attacking two Giaks on Doomwolves. Although superior in numbers, they are no match for these ferocious fighters who have already killed many of their kinfolk.</p>
- <choice idref="sect12">If you wish to aid the peasants, <link-text>turn to 12</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you choose to avoid the fight, you can run back along the track by <link-text>turning to 47</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect22">
- <meta><title>22</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You cannot hold back the sneeze. Within seconds, three ugly Giak faces are squinting up the chimney at you, prodding your feet with their spears. You hurriedly climb the flue only to find a couple of Kraan hovering above. They drop their Giak riders on the roof, and a voice shrieks: 'Dok ek!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect23">
- <meta><title>23</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The innkeeper's cheerful mood changes to a stony stare. 'Get out o' here!' he shouts angrily.</p>
- <choice idref="sect75">If you have the spell of Mind Charm, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 75</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect7">If you wish to leave the tavern, <link-text>turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect24">
- <meta><title>24</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the smiling Ranger walks nearer, your horse becomes nervous and skittish. It takes a great deal of effort to bring him under control. When you glance at the Ranger once more, your skin prickles with dread at the change that has come over him. The skin of his face is writhing. It is changing colour, growing darker and tighter on his skull. His eyes glow with a red fire and fangs sprout from his bottom lip. A wave of panic leaves you breathless as you realize he is a Helghast, a hellish agent of the Darklords. A blue flame ignites at the tip of his staff and a searing charge of energy leaps towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect41">If you possess the spell of Invisible Shield, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 41</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you possess the spell of Counter Spell, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If you have neither of these spells, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect25">
- <meta><title>25</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You invoke the spell and, to the astonishment of the Giaks, leap over the edge. You are able to control your rate of descent, and gently you come to rest in a shallow ravine. You can hear the cries of Kraan and Giaks echoing through the forest. The trees are thicker to the south and you press on in that direction.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect26">
- <meta><title>26</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Spreading the fingers of your right hand wide apart, you breathe the spell-runes. The net wraps around the old man, pinning him firmly to his chair. As you step forward to take away his Warhammer, the yellow bird swoops down and gouges your cheek before flying out of an open window. Lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <p>'Leave me be,' whimpers the old man. 'Take what little I have but spare my life.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect39">If you wish to free him from the net, <link-text>turn to 39</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you decide to leave him tied up and search his cabin for useful items, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you choose to leave the cabin and continue on your mission, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect27">
- <meta><title>27</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>After waiting several minutes for a unit of Giaks to march away you whisper the spell and take to the air. Unfortunately, the effects wear off as you near the middle of the lake, and gradually you descend into the cold dark waters of Lake Pewas.</p>
- <p>You are forced to discard all your equipment, except for your Crystal Star Pendant and Guildmaster's Envelope, for fear of drowning (erase all but these two Special Items from your <a idref='action'>Action Chart</a>).</p>
- <p>Eventually, you reach the far side and stumble ashore, cold and bedraggled. However, if you possess the spell of Mend, you may restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total, for you were able to cast the spell whilst swimming across the lake.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect28">
- <meta><title>28</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The captain is insulted by your attempt at bribery. He knocks the coins from your hand and forces you away from the barricade at the point of his sword. Erase half the number of Gold Crowns that are noted on your <a idref='action'>Action Chart</a>.</p>
- <p>There is little you can do except try to circle the village under cover of the forest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect63"><link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect29">
- <meta><title>29</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You bite your lip as an arrowhead gouges a deep furrow across your thigh (lose 4 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points). The pain makes you swoon but you manage to press on until you have left the Rangers far behind.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect30">
- <meta><title>30</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You sense no evil in these children and you have no cause to doubt their word. They smile with joy when you agree to join them on the ride south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect31">
- <meta><title>31</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>From around a bend in the street ahead, a Ranger appears. He is carrying a long black staff. He smiles and waves at you to slow down.</p>
- <choice idref="sect24">If you wish to slow down and see what he wants, <link-text>turn to 24</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect38">If you decide to ignore him and gallop on, <link-text>turn to 38</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect32">
- <meta><title>32</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A Giak, taller than the others and dressed from head to foot in black chainmail, curses and whips his troops with a barbed flail to get them to pursue you.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, a figure dressed in green leaps out of the undergrowth wielding an axe. Your heart skips a beat as he raises the weapon to strike, but he fells a Giak lurking behind your back - not you! The stranger has saved your life.</p>
- <choice idref="sect40"><link-text>Turn to 40</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect33">
- <meta><title>33</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Welcome to my humble home, welcome,' beams the wrinkle-faced old man.</p>
- <p>As you close the door, a sudden shriek sets your nerves on edge. 'Now, now, Galir!' says the old man, reproving a large yellow-feathered bird perched on a mirror above the mantelpiece. Irritably it flaps its wings and emits a curious warbling sound that the old man appears to understand. The man's expression becomes less friendly and his fingers tighten around the silver handle of an ornate Warhammer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect26">If you have the spell of Net, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 26</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect44">If you wish to draw your sword and attack the old man, <link-text>turn to 44</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to escape into the forest, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect34">
- <meta><title>34</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>As the foul creature dies it tumbles from the bridge and is washed away by the fast-flowing stream. If you have the spell of Mend, you can take this opportunity to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by wading into the water and casting the spell. Before remounting your horse, you must eat a meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect35">
- <meta><title>35</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Kraan heads west and soon lands in a clearing teeming with Giak soldiers. Roughly you are dragged from the saddle and thrown into a deep pit that holds three other humans, all Sommlending like yourself.</p>
- <choice idref="sect78">If you have the spell of Levitation, <link-text>turn to 78</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect65">If you do not possess this spell, <link-text>turn to 65</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect36">
- <meta><title>36</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You wake at dawn, refreshed and eager to continue your mission. The blacksmith's nephew and niece join you for a hearty breakfast and then accompany you to the stable to collect your horse. They share a small black pony called Bobin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14"><link-text>Turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect37">
- <meta><title>37</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You put up a brave struggle but you are soon overwhelmed. They tie your hands and confiscate everything you possess, except for your Crystal Star Pendant, and the Guildmaster's Message, both of which they fail to discover.</p>
- <p>'Dok ziran,' shouts a Giak officer pointing at you, 'Dok kag eg oknar oka.'</p>
- <p>Suddenly you are grabbed and thrown across the saddle of a Kraan. An ugly-faced Giak sits behind you, his knife held to your throat as the beast takes to the air.</p>
- <choice idref="sect60">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand, <link-text>turn to 60</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect35">If you do not have this spell, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 35</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect38">
- <meta><title>38</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Ranger raises his black staff and aims it at your chest. A wave of nausea knots your stomach as suddenly you witness a terrible change. The skin that covers the Ranger's face is writhing, growing darker and tighter on his skull. His eyes glow red and great curved fangs have pushed themselves through his lower jaw. You stifle a scream as you realize he is a Helghast, a powerful shape-changing agent of the Darklords. A blazing blue flame ignites at the tip of his staff and a bolt of energy leaps towards your chest.</p>
- <choice idref="sect58">If you have the spell of Counter Spell, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 58</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect52">If you do not have this spell you can try to dodge the energy bolt by <link-text>turning to 52</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">Or you can try to trample the Helghast beneath your horse's hooves. <link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect39">
- <meta><title>39</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>'Take it easy, old man. I mean you no harm,' you say, as you cut the magical netting that binds him to his rocking chair. 'Your yellow bird seems to have misjudged me, for I have not come here to rob you.'The old man listens with interest to your explanation and gives you some advice on how to reach the Monastery of the Kai.</p>
- <p>You thank the old man and as you turn to leave he offers to exchange his Warhammer for any two items in your Backpack (excluding Meals). If you wish to make the exchange, erase two items of your choice and mark the Silver Warharnmer as a Special Item which you carry tucked into your belt.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect40">
- <meta><title>40</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>On seeing the green-cloaked stranger emerge from the woods, the Giak officer orders his troops to run to the shelter of the forest. For the time being, the danger has passed.</p>
- <p>Wiping the sweat from your brow, you turn to thank your unexpected rescuer and, as you do so, you recognize the clothes he wears: they are the green tunic and cloak of a Kai initiate.</p>
- <choice idref="sect80"><link-text>Turn to 80</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect41">
- <meta><title>41</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Drawing your hand across your face to invoke the spell, you form an invisible shield between yourself and the bolt of energy. Unfortunately, the bolt is magical, and it passes through the shield unhindered.</p>
- <choice idref="sect72"><link-text>Turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect42">
- <meta><title>42</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The message is a warning that the Darklords have mustered a vast army beyond the Durncrag Range. The Guildmaster urges the Kai to cancel the feast of Fehmarn and prepare immediately for war. He fears that Sommerlund has been betrayed by a wizard of the brotherhood, called Vonotar.</p>
- <p>Suddenly, you hear the crunch of iron-shod boots on stone, and before you can destroy the Guildmaster's message, a Giak booms: 'Zazgog rek okaka.'</p>
- <choice idref="sect62">If you wish to stay where you are, <link-text>turn to 62</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect19">If you wish to move deeper into the ruins, <link-text>turn to 19</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect43">
- <meta><title>43</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Border Rangers of Sommerlund are expert archers, and as you hear the hiss of their arrows speeding towards your back you pray that luck is on your side.</p>
- <choice idref="sect13">If you possess the spell of Invisible Shield, <link-text>turn to 13</link-text>.</choice>
- <p>If you do not have this spell, pick a number from the <a idref='random'>Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect69">If the number you have chosen is 0-2, <link-text>turn to 69</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect9">If the number is 3-7, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect29">If the number is 8-9, <link-text>turn to 29</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect44">
- <meta><title>44</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You strike at the old man's head, but he parries your blow with his Warhammer. To your horror, your sword blade disintegrates as soon as it touches the weapon's silver haft. Cackling with glee, the old man leaps into the attack, brandishing his enchanted Warhammer above his head.</p>
- <p>Old Tadeus <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 18 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 18</p>
- <p>You must deduct 4 points from your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> for you are now unarmed. If you have the spell of Vigour, you may cast it to increase your <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ>, but be sure to deduct 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points accordingly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15">You may evade combat after three rounds, by escaping to your horse. <link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect5">If you win the combat, <link-text>turn to 5</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect45">
- <meta><title>45</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You come to the edge of a small lake where many Giaks and Drakkarim are being marshalled into units. You sense that the Kai Monastery lies on the other side of the lake, and you try to think of a way to get across the water unseen.</p>
- <choice idref="sect27">If you have the spell of Levitation, and you wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 27</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect53">If you want to swim across the lake, <link-text>turn to 53</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect68">If you decide to skirt around the lake, under cover of the forest, <link-text>turn to 68</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect46">
- <meta><title>46</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have ridden several miles before you dare rest. You stop by the banks of a stream and allow your horse to drink. If you have the spell of Mend, you can take this opportunity to restore lost <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points by standing in the stream and casting the spell. Before you remount and continue, you must eat a Meal or lose 3 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points.</p>
- <choice idref="sect10">Now <link-text>turn to 10</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect47">
- <meta><title>47</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You climb through a tunnel of trees and emerge at the top of a rocky knoll. About three miles to the south you can see a huge cloud of Kraan circling a grey stone building. You watch with grim fascination as they tear at the walls with their talons. Suddenly, you are disturbed by the sound of rustling undergrowth, and you spin around in time to see a handful of Giaks charging towards you. You turn to run, but find yourself teetering on the brink of a steep drop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect25">If you have the spell of Levitation, <link-text>turn to 25</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect16">If you do not have this spell, or do not wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 16</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect48">
- <meta><title>48</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The Rangers are not impressed by your request to be allowed through Meadowood. A Ranger captain tells you to return to Toran. They are searching for a spy who has murdered three of his men. Until he is caught, nobody can pass through Meadowood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect77">If you have the spell of Mind Charm, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 77</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect28">If you do not have this spell, you can offer him some Gold Crowns, by <link-text>turning to 28</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect63">Or you can try to circle Meadowood by riding through the forest. <link-text>Turn to 63</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect49">
- <meta><title>49</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A dozen black-winged creatures appear overhead. They are Kraan, and on their backs are shrieking Giaks eager to fight. Suddenly, the Kraan swoop.</p>
- <choice idref="sect56">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 56</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect6">If you wish to evade the attack by entering the forest, <link-text>turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect50">
- <meta><title>50</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The foul-mouthed Giaks cackle with joy as they close in for combat. You must fight all three as one enemy.</p>
- <p>Giaks <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 16 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 18</p>
- <choice idref="sect70">You can evade combat after three rounds by running into the forest. <link-text>Turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you win the combat, you can escape along the south path by <link-text>turning to 47</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect51">
- <meta><title>51</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dive aside and the spear whistles past your arm, tearing the cuff of your robe but drawing no blood. Quickly, you scramble to your feet and run deeper into the ruins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect32"><link-text>Turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect52">
- <meta><title>52</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You have barely seconds to act. Desperately you jerk your horse to the left to avoid the crackling blue pulse of flame.</p>
- <p>Pick a number from the <a idref='random'>Random Number Table</a>.</p>
- <choice idref="sect18">If the number you have chosen is 0-6, <link-text>turn to 18</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect72">If the number is 7-9, <link-text>turn to 72</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect53">
- <meta><title>53</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You leave all you carry (except for your Crystal Star Pendant and Guildmaster's Envelope) on this side of the lake, for fear of drowning.</p>
- <p>After fifteen minutes you reach the far side and stumble ashore, cold and bedraggled. However, if you possess the spell of Mend, you may restore 5 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your current total, for you were able to cast the spell whilst swimming across the lake,</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect54">
- <meta><title>54</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She unsheathes a black sword and emits a hideous laugh. The skin on her face is starting to writhe and change colour, growing darker with each passing second. Her eyes glow with red fire and long fangs appear from her lower jaw as she creeps slowly towards you. Shock leaves you breathless as you realize that she is a Helghast, a powerful shape-changing servant of the Darklords. Before you can think of using one of your spells, the Helghast hauls you out of the saddle. You land heavily on the stony ground and fumble in desperation for a weapon as the creature's black sword whistles towards your head.</p>
- <choice idref="sect64">If you have a Silver Warhammer, <link-text>turn to 64</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect61">If you do not possess this Special Item, <link-text>turn to 61</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect55">
- <meta><title>55</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>This road is little better than a rough forest track. Soon all trace of it disappears. You urge your horse through a mass of tangled undergrowth until you happen upon a moss-covered log cabin.</p>
- <choice idref="sect67">If you wish to take a closer look at the cabin, <link-text>turn to 67</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you wish to press on and try to find traces of the old mine road, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect20">If you have the spell of Sense Evil, and if you wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 20</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect56">
- <meta><title>56</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You release a bolt of lightning at the first of a number of Kraan screaming towards you. The pulse of energy tears through its chest, flipping it backwards and scattering its Giak crew like rag dolls. Two Kraan collide with it in mid-air and come crashing down in a tangled heap.</p>
- <p>However, your magic has attracted more Kraan and quickly you realize you must take to the forest if you are to avoid being overwhelmed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect6"><link-text>Turn to 6</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect57">
- <meta><title>57</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You learn that the Rangers are searching for a Darklord spy. Last night he killed three Rangers, here in Meadowood. He escaped but is still somewhere in the area. The Rangers have sealed off the highway and are not letting anyone through until the spy is caught or killed.</p>
- <choice idref="sect48">If you wish to approach the Rangers and ask them to allow you to pass, <link-text>turn to 48</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect55">If you decide to ride back to the junction at Old Mine Road, and try to circle the village, <link-text>turn to 55</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect58">
- <meta><title>58</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You shout the spell-words and feel a chill as some of your body warmth drains away to form the counter spell. A flat sphere of translucent red mist suddenly appears in the path of the oncoming bolt and, as they collide, a splash of violet flame erupts in front of your eyes. A tremendous shock wave knocks you back in the saddle and your startled horse rears up, but somehow you manage to regain control. The Helghast emits a cry that rakes your mind (lose 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points), but the pain quickly fades as you gallop away from Meadowood.</p>
- <choice idref="sect46"><link-text>Turn to 46</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect59">
- <meta><title>59</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You race back along the forest track, but a Kraan swoops down and drops three Giaks on the path ahead. They unsheathe curved swords and utter vile curses as they stalk nearer.</p>
- <choice idref="sect8">If you have the spell of Net, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 8</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect50">If you wish to draw your weapon and fight these three Giak soldiers, <link-text>turn to 50</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect70">If you wish to escape into the forest, <link-text>turn to 70</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect60">
- <meta><title>60</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Carefully, you point your finger at the grinning Giak rider and say the power words. There is an intense flash of blue light and a scream as your bolt decapitates him. His body somersaults backwards off the Kraan which begins to climb, its load instantly halved. The spell has burned through your bonds and now you can pull yourself into a sitting position. With blows to its head and neck, you force the Kraan to land in the forest. As soon as its clawed feet touch the soil, you leap from the saddle and run for cover.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect61">
- <meta><title>61</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The creature laughs manically as it raises the sword to strike again. Valiantly you try to fend off the attack, but you are greatly weakened through loss of blood. The last thing you hear as the black sword descends is the Helghast's mocking laugh of victory.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect62">
- <meta><title>62</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You place the envelope back into your robe and peek carefully over a broken marble slab. A squad of Giaks have entered the ruins and are systematically searching every square inch. Suddenly, a group appear to your left. They see you and raise the alarm: 'Ogadak!'</p>
- <choice idref="sect2">If you have the spell of Lightning Hand, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 2</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect32">If you wish to evade the Giaks, <link-text>turn to 32</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect63">
- <meta><title>63</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The dense foliage makes it difficult to pass through the trees on horseback, so you keep to a narrow track. Suddenly, a patrol of Rangers rush out of the trees behind you. They have bows and are preparing to fire them at you.</p>
- <choice idref="sect9">If you wish to call out to them to hold their fire, <link-text>turn to 9</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect43">If you decide to escape along the track as fast as your horse will carry you, <link-text>turn to 43</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect64">
- <meta><title>64</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>A crackle of blue flame bursts from your enemy's sword as it strikes the haft of your Silver Warhammer. The Helghast recoils from the blow, allowing you to stagger to your feet, but it soon recovers and attacks again. You cannot evade combat and must fight this creature to the death.</p>
- <p>Helghast <typ class="attribute">COMBAT SKILL</typ> 21 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> 28</p>
- <p>If you have the spell of Vigour, you may cast it before combat begins.</p>
- <choice idref="sect34">If you win the fight, <link-text>turn to 34</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect65">
- <meta><title>65</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Three hours pass before a Drakkarim officer appears at the edge of the pit and stares down at you with contempt. He barks an order and a circle of Giak archers appear. The last thing you hear is the hiss of their deadly black arrows.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect66">
- <meta><title>66</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You knock on the door of the blacksmithy. It opens and a small plump woman stands before you, hurriedly wiping her hands on her chequered apron. She smiles and calls for Tym, her husband, as she ushers you into the dark warmth of the smithy. Tym the blacksmith welcomes you with a firm handshake. 'My word, Petrea, we're honoured to have a journeyman with us tonight,' he says to his wife.</p>
- <p>You enjoy a delicious supper, during which the blacksmith asks a favour of you. His nephew and niece, who are staying at the blacksmithy, are due to return home to their village in the morning. They live in Searsby, which lies to the south, where the road to the Kai Monastery branches off from the main highway. All he asks is that you accompany them home. You can hardly refuse the blacksmith's request, especially after enjoying his food and hospitality.</p>
- <choice idref="sect36"><link-text>Turn to 36</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect67">
- <meta><title>67</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You dismount and tether your horse before climbing the rickety steps to the cabin door. Through a cracked window pane you can see an old man sitting in a rocking chair. He is smoking a clay pipe and reading a leather-bound book. As you approach the door, you tread on a twig that snaps with a loud crack.</p>
- <p>'Who's there?' calls the old man.</p>
- <choice idref="sect33">If you wish to enter the cabin, <link-text>turn to 33</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect15">If you decide to press on through the forest, <link-text>turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect68">
- <meta><title>68</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Cautiously you move through the enemy-infested trees, but less than a hundred yards from the water's edge you are spotted by a Kraan patrol. You cannot evade them.</p>
- <choice idref="sect37"><link-text>Turn to 37</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect69">
- <meta><title>69</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You weave back and forth across the track, to present the archers with a harder target. Your tactics pay off, for although an arrow grazes your scalp (lose 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point), it is just a flesh wound. Wiping a trickle of blood away, you press on and soon leave the archers cursing your escape.</p>
- <choice idref="sect15"><link-text>Turn to 15</link-text>.</choice>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect70">
- <meta><title>70</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Crashing headlong through the bracken, you fight to stay on your feet as you make your escape. Everywhere you hear the cries of Kraan and Giaks echoing through the trees. After ten minutes, the trees start to thin out and you can just make out the shape of a stone hut nestling at the bottom of a shallow ravine.</p>
- <choice idref="sect4">If you wish to hide in this hut, <link-text>turn to 4</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect45">If you wish to push on deeper into the forest, <link-text>turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect71">
- <meta><title>71</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You ask her once more to let you cross, this time using your spell of Mind Charm to persuade her you are friendly. Unfortunately, your spell does not have the desired effect.</p>
- <choice idref="sect54"><link-text>Turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect72">
- <meta><title>72</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>The energy bolt smashes into your unprotected chest and hurls you out of the saddle. Your chest is ablaze and tongues of orange flame flicker before your eyes - but you feel no pain. Only numbness and the irresistible urge to sleep fill your body. As your eyes slowly close, you do not see the Helghast raise its black staff to finish you off.</p>
- <p>Your life and your mission end here.</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect73">
- <meta><title>73</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Your heart is pounding fit to burst as you urge your horse through the ever-thickening foliage. The forest soon becomes too dense to continue on horseback and you are forced to press on by foot. You force your way through the rich vegetation until you discover a track. To the north you can make out some huts; to the south the path disappears into wooded hills.</p>
- <choice idref="sect21">If you wish to head north towards the huts, <link-text>turn to 21</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect47">If you wish to go south towards the hills, <link-text>turn to 47</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect74">
- <meta><title>74</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You invoke the spell just in time, and your violent sneezing goes undetected by the Giak soldiers searching the hut below. You wait several minutes before leaving your hiding place and pushing on through the forest to the south.</p>
- <choice idref="sect45"><link-text>Turn to 45</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect75">
- <meta><title>75</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>Under the influence of your magic, a calm descends on the man and his anger is swiftly replaced by his usual jollity. 'I'm sorry,' he says, 'please forgive my rudeness. I don't know what came over me.'</p>
- <p>He ushers you to a table near the fireplace that is set for dinner, and calls to his son to prepare you a meal. The food is delicious: restore 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points to your total before leaving the tavern and continuing on your way.</p>
- <choice idref="sect7"><link-text>Turn to 7</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect76">
- <meta><title>76</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>She answers by grasping the hilt of a weapon sheathed at her side. Her expression is stern and unfriendly.</p>
- <choice idref="sect71">If you have the spell of Mind Charm, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 71</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect17">If you have the spell of Sense Evil, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 17</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect54">If you decide to offer her some Gold Crowns to let you cross the bridge, <link-text>turn to 54</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect77">
- <meta><title>77</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>To the surprise of his men, the Captain orders the barricade to be drawn aside. You are allowed to pass, but as you are riding towards the village, you hear the Captain shouting: 'Stop that rider!'</p>
- <p>Your spell has begun to wear off. Spurring your horse to a gallop, you race along the deserted main street of Meadowood. Two bloodstained bodies lie on the road ahead; they are Rangers and they appear to be dead.</p>
- <choice idref="sect3">If you wish to stop and examine the bodies, <link-text>turn to 3</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect31">If you decide to ride on as fast as you can, <link-text>turn to 31</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect78">
- <meta><title>78</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>One of your fellow captives, a young hill farmer, unties the cords that bind your wrists. With your hands free once more, you whisper the spell of Levitation and slowly rise to the edge of the pit. The others are amazed but they stay silent so as not to jeopardize your escape. Patiently you wait for the right moment before emerging from the pit and diving into the cover of the trees.</p>
- <choice idref="sect11"><link-text>Turn to 11</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect79">
- <meta><title>79</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You awake shortly after dawn to a chill morning and, unless you possess a blanket, you must deduct 2 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> points. You are rising to your feet when suddenly you realize you are being watched. Two children, a boy and a girl, are sitting astride a little black pony, staring at you in disbelief.</p>
- <p>'Have you been asleep here all night?' asks the young girl. You nod.</p>
- <p>'You should have called on our uncle,' says the boy, 'he's the blacksmith of Oak Hill. He would have given you a bed for the night.'</p>
- <p>The little girl leans forward and offers you some bread and cheese. Gratefully you accept her kind offer (restore 1 <typ class="attribute">ENDURANCE</typ> point).</p>
- <p>'We're on our way to Searsby for the feast of Fehmarn,' says her brother. 'Are you going that way?'</p>
- <p>The village of Searsby lies to the south, where a road to the Kai Monastery branches off from the main highway.</p>
- <choice idref="sect14">If you wish to accompany the children south, <link-text>turn to 14</link-text>.</choice>
- <choice idref="sect30">If you have the spell of Sense Evil, and wish to use it, <link-text>turn to 30</link-text>.</choice>
-
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <section class="numbered" id="sect80">
- <meta><title>80</title></meta>
-
- <data>
- <p>You offer your hand in friendship and it is gratefully received. After introducing yourself, you hand over the Guildmaster's Envelope. The Kai Lord studies the message and a great sadness fills his eagle eyes.</p>
- <p>'Alas, the wisdom of this warning has arrived too late to save my kin. The war has already begun and my brothers in arms were the first to fall to the evil host of Helgedad. They are dead, and I am all that remains of the Kai. Your mission is complete, Banedon, but mine has only just begun. I, Lone Wolf, must journey to Holmgard to warn the King. He will know what must be done to save our land.'</p>
- <p>Instinctively, you remove your Crystal Star Pendant and hand it to the last Kai warrior. It is a talisman of good luck and you pray that it protects him on the perilous road ahead.</p>
- <p>Your mission is complete!</p>
-
- </data>
- </section>
- </data>
- </section>
-
- <!-- Backmatter -->
-
- </data>
-</section>
-
-</gamebook>
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0"?>
-<!DOCTYPE xsl:transform [
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.characters SYSTEM "../../en/xml/htmlchar.mod">
- %xhtml.characters;
-]>
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.5 2007/02/02 20:04:28 jonathan.blake
-Correction to handling line elements
-
-Revision 1.4 2006/12/20 00:15:04 jonathan.blake
-Updated to handle the new capabilities in version 0.12.1 of the Gamebook DTD.
-
-Revision 1.3 2006/12/07 01:42:28 jonathan.blake
-Text illustrations need inclusion
-
-Revision 1.2 2006/11/25 18:57:16 jonathan.blake
-Fixed links to footnotes
-
-Revision 1.1 2006/11/25 04:48:52 jonathan.blake
-Modified to generate a single unstyled, UTF-8, HTML file which lacks any illustrations
-
-
-///// xhtml.xsl used as source for xhtml-mongoose.xsl
-
-Revision 1.12 2006/06/05 23:46:46 jonathan.blake
-Fixing the handling of titles when <ch.*/> elements are used.
-
-Revision 1.11 2006/04/04 18:48:52 angantyr
-Fixed paragraphed list and illref template bug.
-
-Revision 1.10 2006/04/02 19:14:37 angantyr
-Introduced automatic footnotes list generation and changed the illustrations
-list generation so that links to numbered sections are titled "Section ...".
-Backwards compatible with old XML files.
-
-Revision 1.9 2006/03/14 21:04:03 angantyr
-Changed the illustration handling with the introduction of 'illref's.
-Backwards compatible.
-
-Revision 1.8 2006/03/13 18:38:49 jonathan.blake
-Fixed minor Spanish translation issue
-
-Revision 1.7 2006/03/09 18:56:33 jonathan.blake
-Added a language parameter and coding to switch between languages when the output is hard-coded into the transformation.
-
-Revision 1.5 2006/03/02 00:33:32 jonathan.blake
-Removed the 'book-path' parameter to work with new gbtoxhtml.pl
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/12/27 01:51:29 angantyr
-Added templates for the "bookref" and "footref" elements.
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/12/05 21:29:04 jonathan.blake
-Added the facilities to properly handle character elements.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/04/09 19:51:50 angantyr
-Added handling of open-ended quotes.
-
-Revision 1.1 2005/01/30 01:32:52 jonathan.blake
-Initial freepository revision of XML support documents.
-
-Revision 1.12 2003/10/07 06:05:14 Jon
-Added capability for "accent" illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.11 2002/12/06 22:12:04 jblake
-Added default namespace declaration to transformation element
-and removed all the extraneous declarations in the template
-elements.
-
-Revision 1.10 2002/11/17 22:37:25 jblake
-Removed the "medium" creator entry from the templates.
-Will they be of any use?
-
-Revision 1.9 2002/11/17 05:06:56 jblake
-Rearranged the title page.
-
-Revision 1.8 2002/11/15 19:35:25 jblake
-Fixed "Content-type" of XHTML output.
-
-Revision 1.7 2002/11/15 00:15:39 jblake
-Fixed a problem with the client-side image map and fixed
-the numbered section list generation so that it will work
-for Shadow on the Sand.
-
-Revision 1.6 2002/10/30 05:59:45 jblake
-Added a value for the alt attribute of the ToC image on the navigation bar.
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/10/24 15:53:41 jblake
-Fixed a conflict with whitespace and paragraphed lists.
-
-Revision 1.4 2002/10/24 15:06:51 jblake
-Added xmlns attributes to all elements that are top level in
-their templates. This was an adjustment required by Xalan-J 2.4.
-
-Also reinstated the comment in each document since the new
-version of Xalan redirects it properly.
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/10/23 05:18:29 jblake
-Added the capability to filter which illustrators' work is used.
-This is accomplished by the "use-illustrators" parameter.
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/20 06:25:35 jblake
-Added support for CLOSE COMBAT SKILL for Freeway Warrior books.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:29:51 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-
-20020327 - repurposed to be used with Xalan Java 2
-
-Todo:
-
-* Add blank whitespace handling to the paragraphed list template
-
--->
-
-<xsl:transform version="1.0"
- xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"
- xmlns:xsl="http://www.w3.org/1999/XSL/Transform"
- xmlns:redirect="org.apache.xalan.lib.Redirect"
- extension-element-prefixes="redirect">
-
-<xsl:output method="xml"
- encoding="utf-8"
- omit-xml-declaration="yes"
- doctype-public="-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN"
- doctype-system="http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd" />
-
-<xsl:strip-space elements="section data ol ul dl li dd footnotes footnote" />
-<xsl:preserve-space elements="p choice" />
-
-<!-- ====================== parameters ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:param name="use-illustrators" />
-<xsl:param name="language"><xsl:text>en</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-
-<!-- ======================= variables ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:variable name="newline">
-<xsl:text>
-</xsl:text>
-</xsl:variable>
-
-<!-- ======================== Templates ========================= -->
-
-<!-- ================= hierarchical sections ==================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="meta" />
-<xsl:template match="section" />
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook">
- <html xml:lang="en-UK" lang="en-UK">
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <head><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <title>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" />
- </title><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <meta http-equiv="Content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <meta name="robots" content="noindex,nofollow" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </head>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <body>
- <xsl:comment>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='copyrights']" />
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text> Publicado por </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> Published by </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/publisher[1]" />
- <xsl:text>. </xsl:text>
- </xsl:comment>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <h1>
- <a name="title">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" />
- </a>
- </h1><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates/>
-
- </body>
- </html>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::: top-level section :::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section[@id='title']">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='blurb']" />
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/creator[@class='long']" />
-
- <hr />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='publication']" />
-
- <p>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Fecha de Publicación: </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Publication Date: </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/day" />
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 1">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de enero de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>January</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 2">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de febrero de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>February</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 3">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de marzo de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>March</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 4">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de abril de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>April</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 5">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de mayo de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>May</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 6">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de junio de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>June</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 7">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de julio de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>July</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 8">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de agosto de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>August</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 9">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de septiembre de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
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- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 10">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de octubre de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>October</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
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- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 11">
- <xsl:choose>
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- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 12">
- <xsl:choose>
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- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/year" />
- </p>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='license-notification']" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
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- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
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- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Índice de Contenidos</xsl:text>
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-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
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- <ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:variable name="title-page">
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- <xsl:text>Página Principal</xsl:text>
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- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Title Page</xsl:text>
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- </xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="/gamebook/section/data/section">
- <li>
- <a><xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" />
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- <xsl:if test="data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' or @class='mainmatter-separate']">
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- <a><xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
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-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
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-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level frontmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h2>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </div>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level front matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h3><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate']">
- <h3><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h4><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h5><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h5>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level main matter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <div class="mainmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h2>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </div>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level main matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h3><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <h3><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h4><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h5><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h5>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::: numbered sections ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <div class="numbered"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates/>
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <h3><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h3><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level backmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: third-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <h3><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fourth-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <h4><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: footnotes template ::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="id( 'footnotz' )">
- <div class="backmatter">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <!-- No particular reason to code title here -->
- <h2><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></a></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <!-- Generate list of footnotes -->
- <div class="footnote">
- <xsl:for-each select="//footnotes/footnote">
- <!-- will the list always contain the closest ancestor first? -->
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-section"><xsl:value-of select="ancestor::section[position()=1]/@id" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-marker"><xsl:number count="footnotes/footnote" from="/" level="any" format="1" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-id"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-idref"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="*[1]">
- <p>
- <xsl:text>[</xsl:text>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="$footnote-id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="$footnote-idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select="$footnote-marker" />
- </a>
- <xsl:text>] </xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text>
- <xsl:call-template name="section-title-link" />
- <xsl:text>) </xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="child::* | child::text()" />
- </p>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="*[position() != 1]">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- </xsl:for-each>
- </div>
-
- <!-- Backwards compatibility... needed? Probably not. -->
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== block elements ======================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="p">
- <p><xsl:apply-templates /></p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="p[@class='dedication']">
- <p class="dedication"><xsl:apply-templates /></p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dl[@class='paragraphed']/dd/node() | ol[@class='paragraphed']/li/node() | ul[@class='paragraphed']/li/node()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::p">
- <xsl:apply-templates /><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::dl">
- <dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </dl><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::ol">
- <ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ol><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::ul">
- <ul>
- <xsl:if test="self::*[@class='unbulleted']"><xsl:attribute name="class"><xsl:text>unbulleted</xsl:text></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ul><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::blockquote">
- <blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration"></xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::illref"></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>[error: paragraphed list template]</xsl:text>
- <xsl:message><xsl:text>error: paragraphed list template</xsl:text></xsl:message>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ol">
- <ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ul">
- <ul>
- <xsl:if test="self::*[@class='unbulleted']"><xsl:attribute name="class"><xsl:text>unbulleted</xsl:text></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dl">
- <dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dt">
- <dt><xsl:apply-templates /></dt>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dd">
- <dd><xsl:apply-templates /></dd>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="li">
- <li><xsl:apply-templates /></li>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="table">
- <table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2">
- <xsl:if test="@summary"><xsl:attribute name="summary"><xsl:value-of select="@summary" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </table>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="caption">
- <caption>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </caption>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="colgroup[@scope]">
- <colgroup>
- <xsl:attribute name="scope"><xsl:value-of select="@scope" /></xsl:attribute>
- </colgroup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="thead">
- <thead>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </thead>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tfoot">
- <tfoot>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tfoot>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tbody">
- <tbody>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tbody>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tr">
- <tr>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tr>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="th">
- <th>
- <xsl:if test="@align"><xsl:attribute name="align"><xsl:value-of select="@align" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@valign"><xsl:attribute name="valign"><xsl:value-of select="@valign" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@char"><xsl:attribute name="char"><xsl:value-of select="@char" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@rowspan"><xsl:attribute name="rowspan"><xsl:value-of select="@rowspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@colspan"><xsl:attribute name="colspan"><xsl:value-of select="@colspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@axis"><xsl:attribute name="axis"><xsl:value-of select="@axis" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@scope"><xsl:attribute name="scope"><xsl:value-of select="@scope" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </th>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="td">
- <td>
- <xsl:if test="@align"><xsl:attribute name="align"><xsl:value-of select="@align" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@valign"><xsl:attribute name="valign"><xsl:value-of select="@valign" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@char"><xsl:attribute name="char"><xsl:value-of select="@char" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@rowspan"><xsl:attribute name="rowspan"><xsl:value-of select="@rowspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@colspan"><xsl:attribute name="colspan"><xsl:value-of select="@colspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@axis"><xsl:attribute name="axis"><xsl:value-of select="@axis" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@scope"><xsl:attribute name="scope"><xsl:value-of select="@scope" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </td>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="combat">
- <p class="combat">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="enemy" />
- <xsl:text>: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']">
- <small>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>COMBAT SKILL</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </small>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']">
- <small>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </small>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <small>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>RESISTENCIA</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>ENDURANCE</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </small>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='target']">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text> (o </xsl:text><small>BLANCOS</small><xsl:text>)</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text><small>TARGET</small><xsl:text> points)</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='target']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text><small>RESISTANCE</small><xsl:text> points)</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='endurance']" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="choice">
- <xsl:variable name="link">
- <xsl:value-of select="@idref" />
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <p class="choice">
- <xsl:for-each select="* | text()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::link-text">
- <a href="#{$link}">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="signpost">
- <div class="signpost">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </div>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="blockquote">
- <blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illref">
- <!-- It is important that the class is not checked right in the template - that would make this template match with higher priority, which will turn a few things upside down -->
- <xsl:if test="@class='html'">
- <xsl:for-each select="id( @idref )">
- <!-- This creates unneccessary regeneration of float illustration pages, but it is easiest to keep things this way as long as we have to be backwards compatible... -->
- <!-- When backwards compatibility can be dropped, most of (all?) the <illustration> processing can happen here -->
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:for-each>
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illustrations">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <xsl:for-each select="illustration[contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )] | illgroup">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration and @class='float'">
- <!-- List item with illustration name as link -->
- <li>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="1" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Ilustración </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Illustration </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="I" />
- </a>
- <!-- List the sections that the illustration appears in -->
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text>
- <xsl:for-each select="//illref[@class='html' and @idref=current()/@id]">
- <xsl:call-template name="section-title-link" />
- <xsl:if test="position()!=last()">
- <xsl:text>, </xsl:text>
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:for-each>
- <xsl:text>)</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </li>
- <!-- Call the backwards compatible template for generating the illustration page -->
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illustration">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="instance[@class='text'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="instance[@class='text']/*"/>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="instance[@class='html'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@class='float'">
- <div class="illustration">
- <xsl:text>[[Illustration </xsl:text>
- <xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="I" />
- <xsl:text>]]</xsl:text>
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="instance" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnotes" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnote" />
-
-<xsl:template match="hr">
- <hr />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== inline elements ======================= -->
-
-<xsl:template match="a">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@href">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@href" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <a>
- <xsl:if test="@idref">
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" />
- </xsl:attribute>
- </xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- This template is obsolete, the "footref" element should be used instead -->
-<xsl:template match="a[@class='footnote']">
- <!-- <xsl:message><xsl:text>WARNING: Obsolete <a idref='...' class='footnote' /> usage</xsl:text></xsl:message> -->
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <sup>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:number count="a[@class='footnote']" from="/" level="any" format="1" />
- </a>
- </sup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- TODO: can this be made more uniform with illrefs? -->
-<xsl:template match="a[@class='accent-illustration']"></xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="bookref">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:variable name="my-section">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@section">
- <xsl:value-of select="@section" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>title</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="my-series">
- <!-- If series is specified, go one directory back and then to series. Otherwise, add nothing. -->
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@series">
- <xsl:text>/../</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@series" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text></xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
- <xsl:text>..</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-series" /><xsl:text>/</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@book" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-section" />
- </xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="footref">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <sup>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:number count="footref" from="/" level="any" format="1" />
- </a>
- </sup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="em">
- <em><xsl:apply-templates /></em>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="strong">
- <strong><xsl:apply-templates /></strong>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="thought">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="onomatopoeia">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="spell">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="item">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="foreign">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="quote">
- <xsl:text>‘</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="not(self::*[@class='open-ended'])"><xsl:text>’</xsl:text></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="quote//quote">
- <xsl:text>“</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="not(self::*[@class='open-ended'])"><xsl:text>”</xsl:text></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="cite">
- <cite><xsl:apply-templates /></cite>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="code">
- <tt><xsl:apply-templates /></tt>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="line">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="position( ) != last( )"><br /></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="br">
- <br />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="typ[@class='attribute']">
- <small><xsl:apply-templates /></small>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== character elements ==================== -->
-<!--
-
-These templates define the mapping between the character elements used in
-the Project Aon instances of Gamebook XML and the ISO-8859-1
-characters.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<xsl:template match="ch.apos"><xsl:text>'</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- apostrophe = single quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.nbsp"><xsl:text> </xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iexcl"><xsl:text>¡</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- inverted exclamation mark, U+00A1 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.cent"><xsl:text>¢</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- cent sign, U+00A2 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.pound"><xsl:text>£</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.curren"><xsl:text>¤</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.yen"><xsl:text>¥</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.brvbar"><xsl:text>¦</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sect"><xsl:text>§</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.uml"><xsl:text>¨</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.copy"><xsl:text>©</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ordf"><xsl:text>ª</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.laquo"><xsl:text>«</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.not"><xsl:text>¬</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.shy"><xsl:text>­</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.reg"><xsl:text>®</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.macr"><xsl:text>¯</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.deg"><xsl:text>°</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.plusmn"><xsl:text>±</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sup2"><xsl:text>²</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sup3"><xsl:text>³</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.acute"><xsl:text>´</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.micro"><xsl:text>µ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.para"><xsl:text>¶</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.middot"><xsl:text>·</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.cedil"><xsl:text>¸</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sup1"><xsl:text>¹</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ordm"><xsl:text>º</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.raquo"><xsl:text>»</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac14"><xsl:text>¼</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac12"><xsl:text>½</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac34"><xsl:text>¾</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iquest"><xsl:text>¿</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Agrave"><xsl:text>À</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Aacute"><xsl:text>Á</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Acirc"><xsl:text>Â</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Atilde"><xsl:text>Ã</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Auml"><xsl:text>Ä</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Aring"><xsl:text>Å</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.AElig"><xsl:text>Æ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ccedil"><xsl:text>Ç</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Egrave"><xsl:text>È</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Eacute"><xsl:text>É</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ecirc"><xsl:text>Ê</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Euml"><xsl:text>Ë</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Igrave"><xsl:text>Ì</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Iacute"><xsl:text>Í</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Icirc"><xsl:text>Î</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Iuml"><xsl:text>Ï</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ETH"><xsl:text>Ð</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ntilde"><xsl:text>Ñ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ograve"><xsl:text>Ò</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Oacute"><xsl:text>Ó</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ocirc"><xsl:text>Ô</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Otilde"><xsl:text>Õ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ouml"><xsl:text>Ö</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.times"><xsl:text>×</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Oslash"><xsl:text>Ø</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ugrave"><xsl:text>Ù</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Uacute"><xsl:text>Ú</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ucirc"><xsl:text>Û</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Uuml"><xsl:text>Ü</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Yacute"><xsl:text>Ý</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.THORN"><xsl:text>Þ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.szlig"><xsl:text>ß</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.agrave"><xsl:text>à</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.aacute"><xsl:text>á</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.acirc"><xsl:text>â</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.atilde"><xsl:text>ã</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.auml"><xsl:text>ä</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.aring"><xsl:text>å</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.aelig"><xsl:text>æ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ccedil"><xsl:text>ç</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.egrave"><xsl:text>è</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.eacute"><xsl:text>é</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ecirc"><xsl:text>ê</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.euml"><xsl:text>ë</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.igrave"><xsl:text>ì</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iacute"><xsl:text>í</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.icirc"><xsl:text>î</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iuml"><xsl:text>ï</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.eth"><xsl:text>ð</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ntilde"><xsl:text>ñ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ograve"><xsl:text>ò</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.oacute"><xsl:text>ó</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ocirc"><xsl:text>ô</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.otilde"><xsl:text>õ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ouml"><xsl:text>ö</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.divide"><xsl:text>÷</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.oslash"><xsl:text>ø</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with stroke, = latin small letter o slash, U+00F8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ugrave"><xsl:text>ù</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.uacute"><xsl:text>ú</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ucirc"><xsl:text>û</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.uuml"><xsl:text>ü</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.yacute"><xsl:text>ý</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.thorn"><xsl:text>þ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter thorn, U+00FE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.yuml"><xsl:text>ÿ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Special Characters ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
-<xsl:template match="ch.ampersand">&</xsl:template><!-- ampersand -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.lsquot">‘</xsl:template><!-- opening left quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.rsquot">’</xsl:template><!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ldquot">“</xsl:template><!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.rdquot">”</xsl:template><!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.minus">−</xsl:template><!-- mathematical minus -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.endash">–</xsl:template><!-- endash -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.emdash">—</xsl:template><!-- emdash -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ellips"> …</xsl:template><!-- ellipsis -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.lellips">… </xsl:template><!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.blankline">_______</xsl:template><!-- blank line to be filled in -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.percent"><xsl:text>%</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- percent sign -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.thinspace"><xsl:text> </xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks - added mainly for LaTeX's sake -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac116"><xsl:text>1/16</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction one sixteenth = fraction on sixteenth -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.plus"><xsl:text>+</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- mathematical plus -->
-
-<!-- ==================== named templates ======================= -->
-
-<!--
- A "subroutine" to generate a link to the current section, with the section title (expanded with "Section " in case of a numbered section) as link text.
--->
-<xsl:template name="section-title-link">
- <!-- will the list always contain the closest ancestor first? -->
- <xsl:variable name="section-title">
- <!-- numbered or not? -->
- <xsl:if test="ancestor::section[position()=1]/@class='numbered'">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Sección </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Section </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="ancestor::section[position()=1]/meta/title[1]" />
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="ancestor::section[position()=1]/@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select="$section-title" />
- </a>
-</xsl:template>
-
-</xsl:transform>
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0"?>
-<!DOCTYPE xhtml-transform [
- <!ENTITY nbsp " ">
-]>
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.2 2005/04/09 19:51:50 angantyr
-Added handling of open-ended quotes.
-
-Revision 1.1 2005/01/30 01:32:52 jonathan.blake
-Initial freepository revision of XML support documents.
-
-Revision 1.1 2003/01/15 17:22:44 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/22 16:35:26 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/20 06:25:35 jblake
-Added support for CLOSE COMBAT SKILL for Freeway Warrior books.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:29:51 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-
-20020327 - repurposed to be used with Xalan Java 2
--->
-
-<xsl:transform version="1.0"
- xmlns:xml="http://www.w3.org/XML/1998/namespace"
- xmlns:xsl="http://www.w3.org/1999/XSL/Transform"
- xmlns:lxslt="http://xml.apache.org/xslt"
- xmlns:redirect="org.apache.xalan.lib.Redirect"
- extension-element-prefixes="redirect">
-
-<xsl:output method="xml"
- encoding="ISO-8859-1"
- omit-xml-declaration="yes"
- doctype-public="-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN"
- doctype-system="http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd" />
-
-<xsl:strip-space elements="section data ol ul dl li dd footnotes footnote" />
-<xsl:preserve-space elements="p" />
-
-<!-- ====================== parameters ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:param name="book-path"><xsl:text>undefined-book</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ colors ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
-<xsl:param name="link-color"><xsl:text>#ff0000</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-<xsl:param name="alink-color"><xsl:value-of select="$link-color" /></xsl:param>
-<xsl:param name="vlink-color"><xsl:value-of select="$link-color" /></xsl:param>
-
-<xsl:param name="text-color"><xsl:text>#000000</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-<xsl:param name="background-color"><xsl:text>ffffe4</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-
-<!-- ======================= variables ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:variable name="newline">
-<xsl:text>
-</xsl:text>
-</xsl:variable>
-
-<!-- ======================== Templates ========================= -->
-
-<!-- ================= hierarchical sections ==================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="meta" />
-<xsl:template match="section" />
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::: top-level section :::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">top-level</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">toc</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename">toc</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level frontmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-frontmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level front matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h3><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-frontmatter-separate</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h4><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h5><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h5>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level main matter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-mainmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level main matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h3><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-mainmatter-separate</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h4><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h5><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h5>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level glossary sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='glossary']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-glossary</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="glossary-id-prefix">topics</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level glossary sections ::::::::::::: -->
-<!-- glossary sections should be enclosed in a second level glossary section -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary']">
- <h3><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-glossary-separate</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="glossary-id-prefix">topics</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::: numbered sections ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-numbered</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-numbered</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level backmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-backmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: third-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <h3><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fourth-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <h4><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: map template ::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="id( 'map' )">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">map-adjusted</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">map</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>large</xsl:text></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== block elements ======================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="p">
- <p><xsl:apply-templates /></p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="p[@class='dedication']">
- <p class="dedication"><xsl:apply-templates /></p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dl[@class='paragraphed']/dd/node() | ol[@class='paragraphed']/li/node() | ul[@class='paragraphed']/li/node()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::p">
- <xsl:apply-templates /><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::dl">
- <dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </dl><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::ol">
- <ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ol><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::ul">
- <ul>
- <xsl:if test="self::*[@class='unbulleted']"><xsl:attribute name="class"><xsl:text>unbulleted</xsl:text></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ul><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::blockquote">
- <blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:if test="instance[@class='pdaxhtml']">
- <div class="illustration"><div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <p><img src="{$illustration-src}" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" border="0" align="middle" alt="[illustration]" /></p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>[error: paragraphed list template]</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ol">
- <ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ul">
- <ul>
- <xsl:if test="self::*[@class='unbulleted']"><xsl:attribute name="class"><xsl:text>unbulleted</xsl:text></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dl">
- <dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dt">
- <dt><xsl:apply-templates /></dt>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dd">
- <dd><xsl:apply-templates /></dd>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="li">
- <li><xsl:apply-templates /></li>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="table">
- <table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </table>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tr">
- <tr>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tr>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="th">
- <th>
- <xsl:if test="@align"><xsl:attribute name="align"><xsl:value-of select="@align" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@valign"><xsl:attribute name="valign"><xsl:value-of select="@valign" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@char"><xsl:attribute name="char"><xsl:value-of select="@char" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </th>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="td">
- <td>
- <xsl:if test="@align"><xsl:attribute name="align"><xsl:value-of select="@align" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@valign"><xsl:attribute name="valign"><xsl:value-of select="@valign" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@char"><xsl:attribute name="char"><xsl:value-of select="@char" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </td>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="combat">
- <p class="combat">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="enemy" />
- <xsl:text>: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']">
- <span class="smallcaps">COMBAT<xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>SKILL</span>
- <xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']">
- <span class="smallcaps">CLOSE<xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>COMBAT<xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>SKILL</span>
- <xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes"> &nbsp;&nbsp;</xsl:text>
- <span class="smallcaps">ENDURANCE</span>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='target']">
- <xsl:text>(</xsl:text><span class="smallcaps">TARGET</span><xsl:text> points)</xsl:text>
- <xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='target']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']">
- <xsl:text>(</xsl:text><span class="smallcaps">RESISTANCE</span><xsl:text> points)</xsl:text>
- <xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text disable-output-escaping="yes">&nbsp;</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='endurance']" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="choice">
- <xsl:variable name="link">
- <xsl:value-of select="@idref" />
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <p class="choice">
- <xsl:for-each select="* | text()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::link-text">
- <a href="{$link}.htm">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="signpost">
- <div class="signpost">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </div>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="blockquote">
- <blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illustration">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width-adjusted"><xsl:number value="$illustration-width div 2" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height-adjusted"><xsl:number value="$illustration-height div 2" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:if test="instance[@class='pdaxhtml']">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@class='float'">
- <div class="illustration"><div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <p>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float']" from="/" level="any" format="1" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <img src="{$illustration-src}" width="{$illustration-width-adjusted}" height="{$illustration-height-adjusted}" border="0" align="middle" alt="[illustration]" />
- </a>
- </p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">illustration</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float']" from="/" level="any" format="1" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- </xsl:when>
-
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <div class="illustration"><div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <p><img src="{$illustration-src}" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" border="0" align="middle" alt="[illustration]" /></p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="instance" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnotes" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnote" />
-
-<xsl:template match="hr">
- <hr />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== inline elements ======================= -->
-
-<xsl:template match="a">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@href">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@href" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <a>
- <xsl:if test="@idref">
- <xsl:variable name="my-idref" select="@idref" />
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:choose>
- <!-- The order of these tests is deliberate. They are ordered roughly from most to least specific. -->
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section[@id=$my-idref] | /gamebook/section/data/section[@id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='numbered' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section[descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section[descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>[error: "a" template]</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:attribute>
- </xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="a[@class='footnote']">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <sup>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:number count="a[@class='footnote']" from="/" level="any" format="1" />
- </a>
- </sup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="em">
- <em><xsl:apply-templates /></em>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="strong">
- <strong><xsl:apply-templates /></strong>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="thought">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="onomatopoeia">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="spell">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="item">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="foreign">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="quote">
- <xsl:text>'</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="not(self::*[@class='open-ended'])"><xsl:text>'</xsl:text></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="quote//quote">
- <xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="not(self::*[@class='open-ended'])"><xsl:text>"</xsl:text></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="cite">
- <cite><xsl:apply-templates /></cite>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="code">
- <tt><xsl:apply-templates /></tt>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="br">
- <br />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="typ[@class='attribute']">
- <span class="smallcaps"><xsl:apply-templates /></span>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== named templates ======================= -->
-
-<xsl:template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:param name="document-type">undefined</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="filename">undefined</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="glossary-id-prefix"></xsl:param>
-
- <redirect:write file="{$book-path}/{$filename}.htm">
- <xsl:fallback>
- <xsl:text>xhtml-wrapper: Cannot write to filename: "</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$filename" /><xsl:text>.htm"</xsl:text>
- </xsl:fallback>
-
- <xsl:comment>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='copyrights']" />
- <xsl:text> Published by </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/publisher[1]" />
- <xsl:text>. </xsl:text>
- </xsl:comment>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en-UK" lang="en-UK">
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <head><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <title>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" />
- <xsl:text>: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='illustration'">
- <xsl:text>Illustration </xsl:text>
- <xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float']" from="/" level="any" format="I" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:value-of select="meta/title[1]" /></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </title><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <meta name="robots" content="noindex,nofollow" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <link rel="stylesheet" href="main.css" type="text/css" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </head>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <body>
- <xsl:attribute name="text"><xsl:value-of select="$text-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="bgcolor"><xsl:value-of select="$background-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="background"><xsl:text>bckgrnd.gif</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="link"><xsl:value-of select="$link-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="alink"><xsl:value-of select="$alink-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="vlink"><xsl:value-of select="$vlink-color" /></xsl:attribute>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h1><xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" /></h1><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <div id="body"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:choose>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ top-level ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='top-level'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <p class="author"><xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/creator[@class='medium']" /></p>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='publication']" />
-
- <p>
- <xsl:text>Publication Date: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/day" />
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
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- <xsl:text>January</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 2">
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- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 3">
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-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
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-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:for-each select="data/* | data/text()">
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- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width-adjusted"><xsl:number value="386" /></xsl:variable>
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- <p>[map]</p>
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- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
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- <p>[map]</p>
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- <h3>
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-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <map name="imagemap" id="imagemap">
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- <img src="right.gif" width="150" height="30" border="0" alt="" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- </div>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template name="alpha-bar">
- <xsl:param name="alpha-bar-id-prefix"></xsl:param>
-
- <p class="navigation">[<a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}a.htm">A</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}b.htm">B</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}c.htm">C</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}d.htm">D</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}e.htm">E</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}f.htm">F</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}g.htm">G</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}h.htm">H</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}i.htm">I</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}j.htm">J</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}k.htm">K</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}l.htm">L</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}m.htm">M</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}n.htm">N</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}o.htm">O</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}p.htm">P</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}q.htm">Q</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}r.htm">R</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}s.htm">S</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}t.htm">T</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}u.htm">U</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}v.htm">V</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}w.htm">W</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}x.htm">X</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}y.htm">Y</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}z.htm">Z</a>]</p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
-</xsl:template>
-
-</xsl:transform>
\ No newline at end of file
+++ /dev/null
-<?xml version="1.0"?>
-<!DOCTYPE xsl:transform [
- <!ENTITY % xhtml.characters SYSTEM "../../en/xml/htmlchar.mod">
- %xhtml.characters;
-]>
-
-<!--
-
-$Id$
-
-$Log$
-Revision 1.15 2007/02/02 20:04:28 jonathan.blake
-Correction to handling line elements
-
-Revision 1.14 2006/12/20 00:15:21 jonathan.blake
-Updated to handle the new capabilities in version 0.12.1 of the Gamebook DTD.
-
-Revision 1.13 2006/11/25 04:47:00 jonathan.blake
-Removal of obsolete apache namespace.
-
-Revision 1.12 2006/06/05 23:46:46 jonathan.blake
-Fixing the handling of titles when <ch.*/> elements are used.
-
-Revision 1.11 2006/04/04 18:48:52 angantyr
-Fixed paragraphed list and illref template bug.
-
-Revision 1.10 2006/04/02 19:14:37 angantyr
-Introduced automatic footnotes list generation and changed the illustrations
-list generation so that links to numbered sections are titled "Section ...".
-Backwards compatible with old XML files.
-
-Revision 1.9 2006/03/14 21:04:03 angantyr
-Changed the illustration handling with the introduction of 'illref's.
-Backwards compatible.
-
-Revision 1.8 2006/03/13 18:38:49 jonathan.blake
-Fixed minor Spanish translation issue
-
-Revision 1.7 2006/03/09 18:56:33 jonathan.blake
-Added a language parameter and coding to switch between languages when the output is hard-coded into the transformation.
-
-Revision 1.5 2006/03/02 00:33:32 jonathan.blake
-Removed the 'book-path' parameter to work with new gbtoxhtml.pl
-
-Revision 1.4 2005/12/27 01:51:29 angantyr
-Added templates for the "bookref" and "footref" elements.
-
-Revision 1.3 2005/12/05 21:29:04 jonathan.blake
-Added the facilities to properly handle character elements.
-
-Revision 1.2 2005/04/09 19:51:50 angantyr
-Added handling of open-ended quotes.
-
-Revision 1.1 2005/01/30 01:32:52 jonathan.blake
-Initial freepository revision of XML support documents.
-
-Revision 1.12 2003/10/07 06:05:14 Jon
-Added capability for "accent" illustrations.
-
-Revision 1.11 2002/12/06 22:12:04 jblake
-Added default namespace declaration to transformation element
-and removed all the extraneous declarations in the template
-elements.
-
-Revision 1.10 2002/11/17 22:37:25 jblake
-Removed the "medium" creator entry from the templates.
-Will they be of any use?
-
-Revision 1.9 2002/11/17 05:06:56 jblake
-Rearranged the title page.
-
-Revision 1.8 2002/11/15 19:35:25 jblake
-Fixed "Content-type" of XHTML output.
-
-Revision 1.7 2002/11/15 00:15:39 jblake
-Fixed a problem with the client-side image map and fixed
-the numbered section list generation so that it will work
-for Shadow on the Sand.
-
-Revision 1.6 2002/10/30 05:59:45 jblake
-Added a value for the alt attribute of the ToC image on the navigation bar.
-
-Revision 1.5 2002/10/24 15:53:41 jblake
-Fixed a conflict with whitespace and paragraphed lists.
-
-Revision 1.4 2002/10/24 15:06:51 jblake
-Added xmlns attributes to all elements that are top level in
-their templates. This was an adjustment required by Xalan-J 2.4.
-
-Also reinstated the comment in each document since the new
-version of Xalan redirects it properly.
-
-Revision 1.3 2002/10/23 05:18:29 jblake
-Added the capability to filter which illustrators' work is used.
-This is accomplished by the "use-illustrators" parameter.
-
-Revision 1.2 2002/10/20 06:25:35 jblake
-Added support for CLOSE COMBAT SKILL for Freeway Warrior books.
-
-Revision 1.1 2002/10/15 23:29:51 jblake
-Initial revision
-
-
-20020327 - repurposed to be used with Xalan Java 2
-
-Todo:
-
-* Add blank whitespace handling to the paragraphed list template
-
--->
-
-<xsl:transform version="1.0"
- xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"
- xmlns:xsl="http://www.w3.org/1999/XSL/Transform"
- xmlns:redirect="org.apache.xalan.lib.Redirect"
- extension-element-prefixes="redirect">
-
-<xsl:output method="xml"
- encoding="ISO-8859-1"
- omit-xml-declaration="yes"
- doctype-public="-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN"
- doctype-system="http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd" />
-
-<xsl:strip-space elements="section data ol ul dl li dd footnotes footnote" />
-<xsl:preserve-space elements="p choice" />
-
-<!-- ====================== parameters ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:param name="use-illustrators" />
-<xsl:param name="language"><xsl:text>en</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ colors ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
-<xsl:param name="link-color"><xsl:text>#ff0000</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-<xsl:param name="alink-color"><xsl:value-of select="$link-color" /></xsl:param>
-<xsl:param name="vlink-color"><xsl:value-of select="$link-color" /></xsl:param>
-
-<xsl:param name="text-color"><xsl:text>#000000</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-<xsl:param name="background-color"><xsl:text>#ffffe4</xsl:text></xsl:param>
-
-<!-- ======================= variables ========================== -->
-
-<xsl:variable name="newline">
-<xsl:text>
-</xsl:text>
-</xsl:variable>
-
-<!-- ======================== Templates ========================= -->
-
-<!-- ================= hierarchical sections ==================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="meta" />
-<xsl:template match="section" />
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::: top-level section :::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section[@id='title']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">top-level</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename">title</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section[@id='toc']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">toc</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename">toc</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level frontmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-frontmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level front matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-frontmatter-separate</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h4><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level front matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter']">
- <h5><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h5>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::: second-level main matter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-mainmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level main matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-mainmatter-separate</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: fourth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h4><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fifth-level main matter sections :::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter']">
- <h5><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h5>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level glossary sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='glossary']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-glossary</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="glossary-id-prefix">topics</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: third-level glossary sections ::::::::::::: -->
-<!-- glossary sections should be enclosed in a second level glossary section -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary']">
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-glossary-separate</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="glossary-id-prefix">topics</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::::::::: numbered sections ::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-numbered</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='numbered']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">third-level-numbered</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- :::::::::::: second-level backmatter sections :::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-backmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: third-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h3>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::: fourth-level back matter sections ::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section/data/section[@class='backmatter']">
- <h4><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></h4>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: map template ::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="id( 'map' )">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">map-adjusted</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">map</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>large</xsl:text></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ::::::::::::::::::::: footnotes template ::::::::::::::::::::::::: -->
-
-<xsl:template match="id( 'footnotz' )">
- <xsl:choose>
- <!-- Backwards compatibility measure - if there is data content, use that, otherwise generate footnotes list -->
- <xsl:when test="count( data/p ) = 0">
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">footnotz</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">second-level-backmatter</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== block elements ======================== -->
-
-<xsl:template match="p">
- <p><xsl:apply-templates /></p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="p[@class='dedication']">
- <p class="dedication"><xsl:apply-templates /></p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dl[@class='paragraphed']/dd/node() | ol[@class='paragraphed']/li/node() | ul[@class='paragraphed']/li/node()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::p">
- <xsl:apply-templates /><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::dl">
- <dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </dl><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::ol">
- <ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ol><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::ul">
- <ul>
- <xsl:if test="self::*[@class='unbulleted']"><xsl:attribute name="class"><xsl:text>unbulleted</xsl:text></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ul><br /><br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::blockquote">
- <blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration">
- <!-- Backwards compatibility code -->
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:if test="instance[@class='html'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <div class="illustration">
- <div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="self::illref">
- <xsl:if test="@class='html'">
- <xsl:for-each select="id( @idref )">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:for-each>
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>[error: paragraphed list template]</xsl:text>
- <xsl:message><xsl:text>error: paragraphed list template</xsl:text></xsl:message>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ol">
- <ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ol><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="ul">
- <ul>
- <xsl:if test="self::*[@class='unbulleted']"><xsl:attribute name="class"><xsl:text>unbulleted</xsl:text></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dl">
- <dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </dl><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dt">
- <dt><xsl:apply-templates /></dt>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="dd">
- <dd><xsl:apply-templates /></dd>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="li">
- <li><xsl:apply-templates /></li>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="table">
- <table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2">
- <xsl:if test="@summary"><xsl:attribute name="summary"><xsl:value-of select="@summary" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </table>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="caption">
- <caption>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </caption>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="colgroup[@scope]">
- <colgroup>
- <xsl:attribute name="scope"><xsl:value-of select="@scope" /></xsl:attribute>
- </colgroup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="thead">
- <thead>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </thead>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tfoot">
- <tfoot>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tfoot>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tbody">
- <tbody>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tbody>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="tr">
- <tr>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </tr>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="th">
- <th>
- <xsl:if test="@align"><xsl:attribute name="align"><xsl:value-of select="@align" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@valign"><xsl:attribute name="valign"><xsl:value-of select="@valign" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@char"><xsl:attribute name="char"><xsl:value-of select="@char" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@rowspan"><xsl:attribute name="rowspan"><xsl:value-of select="@rowspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@colspan"><xsl:attribute name="colspan"><xsl:value-of select="@colspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@axis"><xsl:attribute name="axis"><xsl:value-of select="@axis" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@scope"><xsl:attribute name="scope"><xsl:value-of select="@scope" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </th>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="td">
- <td>
- <xsl:if test="@align"><xsl:attribute name="align"><xsl:value-of select="@align" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@valign"><xsl:attribute name="valign"><xsl:value-of select="@valign" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@char"><xsl:attribute name="char"><xsl:value-of select="@char" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@rowspan"><xsl:attribute name="rowspan"><xsl:value-of select="@rowspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@colspan"><xsl:attribute name="colspan"><xsl:value-of select="@colspan" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@axis"><xsl:attribute name="axis"><xsl:value-of select="@axis" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@scope"><xsl:attribute name="scope"><xsl:value-of select="@scope" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </td>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="combat">
- <p class="combat">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="enemy" />
- <xsl:text>: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']">
- <span class="smallcaps">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>DESTREZA EN EL COMBATE</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>COMBAT SKILL</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </span>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='combatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']">
- <span class="smallcaps">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>CLOSE COMBAT SKILL</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </span>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='closecombatskill']" />
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <span class="smallcaps">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>RESISTENCIA</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>ENDURANCE</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </span>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='target']">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text> (o </xsl:text><span class="smallcaps">BLANCOS</span><xsl:text>)</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text><span class="smallcaps">TARGET</span><xsl:text> points)</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='target']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text><span class="smallcaps">RESISTANCE</span><xsl:text> points)</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='resistance']" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="enemy-attribute[@class='endurance']" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="choice">
- <xsl:variable name="link">
- <xsl:value-of select="@idref" />
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <p class="choice">
- <xsl:for-each select="* | text()">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::link-text">
- <a href="{$link}.htm">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </p>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="signpost">
- <div class="signpost">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </div>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="blockquote">
- <blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:apply-templates /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </blockquote><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illref">
- <!-- It is important that the class is not checked right in the template - that would make this template match with higher priority, which will turn a few things upside down -->
- <xsl:if test="@class='html'">
- <xsl:for-each select="id( @idref )">
- <!-- This creates unneccessary regeneration of float illustration pages, but it is easiest to keep things this way as long as we have to be backwards compatible... -->
- <!-- When backwards compatibility can be dropped, most of (all?) the <illustration> processing can happen here -->
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:for-each>
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illustrations">
- <ul class="unbulleted">
- <xsl:for-each select="illustration[contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )] | illgroup">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration and @class='float'">
- <!-- List item with illustration name as link -->
- <li>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="1" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Ilustración </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Illustration </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="I" />
- </a>
- <!-- List the sections that the illustration appears in -->
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text>
- <xsl:for-each select="//illref[@class='html' and @idref=current()/@id]">
- <xsl:call-template name="section-title-link" />
- <xsl:if test="position()!=last()">
- <xsl:text>, </xsl:text>
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:for-each>
- <xsl:text>)</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </li>
- <!-- Call the backwards compatible template for generating the illustration page -->
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">illustration</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) ) ]" from="/" level="any" format="1" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- </xsl:when>
-
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration"> <!-- inline and map -->
- <!-- List the sections that the illustration appears in -->
- <li>
- <!-- TODO: fix this so that sections that do not represent separate XHTML files are not linked to? -->
- <xsl:for-each select="//illref[@class='html' and @idref=current()/@id]">
- <xsl:call-template name="section-title-link" />
- <xsl:if test="position()!=last()">
- <xsl:text>, </xsl:text>
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </li>
- </xsl:when>
-
- <xsl:when test="self::illgroup and @class!='hidden'">
- <!-- Check if the group contains any illustrations being used, before creating the list item -->
- <xsl:if test="count( illustration[contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )] ) != 0">
- <li>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select="id(@idref)/meta/title[1]" />
- </a>
- </li>
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:when>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="illustration">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width-adjusted"><xsl:number value="$illustration-width div 2" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height-adjusted"><xsl:number value="$illustration-height div 2" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:if test="instance[@class='html'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@class='float'">
- <div class="illustration">
- <div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width-adjusted" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height-adjusted" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-href">
- <xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="1" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:with-param name="document-type">illustration</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="filename"><xsl:text>ill</xsl:text><xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) ) ]" from="/" level="any" format="1" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- </xsl:when>
-
- <xsl:when test="@class='accent'" />
-
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <div class="illustration">
- <div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="instance" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnotes" />
-
-<xsl:template match="footnote" />
-
-<xsl:template match="hr">
- <hr />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== inline elements ======================= -->
-
-<xsl:template match="a">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@href">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@href" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <a>
- <xsl:if test="@idref">
- <xsl:variable name="my-idref" select="@idref" />
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:choose>
- <!-- The order of these tests is deliberate. They are ordered roughly from most to least specific. -->
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section[@id=$my-idref] | /gamebook/section/data/section[@id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='numbered' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate' and @id=$my-idref]">
- <xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='mainmatter-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section/data/section[@class='glossary-separate' and descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/section/data/section[descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]">
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/section/data/section[descendant::*[@id=$my-idref]]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-idref" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>[error: a template]</xsl:text>
- <xsl:message><xsl:text>error: a template</xsl:text></xsl:message>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:attribute>
- </xsl:if>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- This template is obsolete, the "footref" element should be used instead -->
-<xsl:template match="a[@class='footnote']">
- <!-- <xsl:message><xsl:text>WARNING: Obsolete <a idref='...' class='footnote' /> usage</xsl:text></xsl:message> -->
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <sup>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:number count="a[@class='footnote']" from="/" level="any" format="1" />
- </a>
- </sup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- TODO: can this be made more uniform with illrefs? -->
-<xsl:template match="a[@class='accent-illustration']">
- <xsl:for-each select="id( @idref )">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:if test="instance[@class='html'] and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <img src="{$illustration-src}" class="accent" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" alt="" border="" align="left" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:for-each>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="bookref">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:variable name="my-section">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@section">
- <xsl:value-of select="@section" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>title</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="my-series">
- <!-- If series is specified, go one directory back and then to series. Otherwise, add nothing. -->
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="@series">
- <xsl:text>/../</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@series" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text></xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
- <xsl:text>..</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-series" /><xsl:text>/</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@book" /><xsl:text>/</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$my-section" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:if test="@id"><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute></xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- </a>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="footref">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <sup>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:text>#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:number count="footref" from="/" level="any" format="1" />
- </a>
- </sup>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="em">
- <em><xsl:apply-templates /></em>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="strong">
- <strong><xsl:apply-templates /></strong>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="thought">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="onomatopoeia">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="spell">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="item">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="foreign">
- <i><xsl:apply-templates /></i>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="quote">
- <xsl:text>'</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="not(self::*[@class='open-ended'])"><xsl:text>'</xsl:text></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="quote//quote">
- <xsl:text>"</xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="not(self::*[@class='open-ended'])"><xsl:text>"</xsl:text></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="cite">
- <cite><xsl:apply-templates /></cite>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="code">
- <tt><xsl:apply-templates /></tt>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="line">
- <xsl:apply-templates />
- <xsl:if test="position( ) != last( )"><br /></xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="br">
- <br />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template match="typ[@class='attribute']">
- <span class="smallcaps"><xsl:apply-templates /></span>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!-- ==================== character elements ==================== -->
-<!--
-
-These templates define the mapping between the character elements used in
-the Project Aon instances of Gamebook XML and the ISO-8859-1
-characters.
-
-Portions Copyright International Organization for Standardization 1986
-Permission to copy in any form is granted for use with conforming SGML
-systems and applications as defined in ISO 8879, provided this notice
-is included in all copies.
-
--->
-
-<xsl:template match="ch.apos"><xsl:text>'</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- apostrophe = single quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.nbsp"><xsl:text> </xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- no-break space = non-breaking space, U+00A0 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iexcl"><xsl:text>¡</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- inverted exclamation mark, U+00A1 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.cent"><xsl:text>¢</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- cent sign, U+00A2 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.pound"><xsl:text>£</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- pound sign, U+00A3 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.curren"><xsl:text>¤</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- currency sign, U+00A4 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.yen"><xsl:text>¥</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- yen sign = yuan sign, U+00A5 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.brvbar"><xsl:text>¦</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- broken bar = broken vertical bar, U+00A6 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sect"><xsl:text>§</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- section sign, U+00A7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.uml"><xsl:text>¨</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- diaeresis = spacing diaeresis, U+00A8 ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.copy"><xsl:text>©</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- copyright sign, U+00A9 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ordf"><xsl:text>ª</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- feminine ordinal indicator, U+00AA ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.laquo"><xsl:text>«</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- left-pointing double angle quotation mark = left pointing guillemet, U+00AB ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.not"><xsl:text>¬</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- not sign, U+00AC ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.shy"><xsl:text>­</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- soft hyphen = discretionary hyphen, U+00AD ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.reg"><xsl:text>®</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- registered sign = registered trade mark sign, U+00AE ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.macr"><xsl:text>¯</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- macron = spacing macron = overline = APL overbar, U+00AF ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.deg"><xsl:text>°</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- degree sign, U+00B0 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.plusmn"><xsl:text>±</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- plus-minus sign = plus-or-minus sign, U+00B1 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sup2"><xsl:text>²</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- superscript two = superscript digit two = squared, U+00B2 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sup3"><xsl:text>³</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- superscript three = superscript digit three = cubed, U+00B3 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.acute"><xsl:text>´</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- acute accent = spacing acute, U+00B4 ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.micro"><xsl:text>µ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- micro sign, U+00B5 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.para"><xsl:text>¶</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- pilcrow sign = paragraph sign, U+00B6 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.middot"><xsl:text>·</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- middle dot = Georgian comma = Greek middle dot, U+00B7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.cedil"><xsl:text>¸</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- cedilla = spacing cedilla, U+00B8 ISOdia -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.sup1"><xsl:text>¹</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- superscript one = superscript digit one, U+00B9 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ordm"><xsl:text>º</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- masculine ordinal indicator, U+00BA ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.raquo"><xsl:text>»</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- right-pointing double angle quotation mark = right pointing guillemet, U+00BB ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac14"><xsl:text>¼</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction one quarter = fraction one quarter, U+00BC ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac12"><xsl:text>½</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction one half = fraction one half, U+00BD ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac34"><xsl:text>¾</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction three quarters = fraction three quarters, U+00BE ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iquest"><xsl:text>¿</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- inverted question mark = turned question mark, U+00BF ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Agrave"><xsl:text>À</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with grave = latin capital letter A grave, U+00C0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Aacute"><xsl:text>Á</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with acute, U+00C1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Acirc"><xsl:text>Â</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with circumflex, U+00C2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Atilde"><xsl:text>Ã</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with tilde, U+00C3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Auml"><xsl:text>Ä</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with diaeresis, U+00C4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Aring"><xsl:text>Å</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter A with ring above = latin capital letter A ring, U+00C5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.AElig"><xsl:text>Æ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter AE = latin capital ligature AE, U+00C6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ccedil"><xsl:text>Ç</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter C with cedilla, U+00C7 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Egrave"><xsl:text>È</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with grave, U+00C8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Eacute"><xsl:text>É</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with acute, U+00C9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ecirc"><xsl:text>Ê</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with circumflex, U+00CA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Euml"><xsl:text>Ë</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter E with diaeresis, U+00CB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Igrave"><xsl:text>Ì</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with grave, U+00CC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Iacute"><xsl:text>Í</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with acute, U+00CD ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Icirc"><xsl:text>Î</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with circumflex, U+00CE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Iuml"><xsl:text>Ï</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter I with diaeresis, U+00CF ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ETH"><xsl:text>Ð</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter ETH, U+00D0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ntilde"><xsl:text>Ñ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter N with tilde, U+00D1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ograve"><xsl:text>Ò</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with grave, U+00D2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Oacute"><xsl:text>Ó</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with acute, U+00D3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ocirc"><xsl:text>Ô</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with circumflex, U+00D4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Otilde"><xsl:text>Õ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with tilde, U+00D5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ouml"><xsl:text>Ö</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with diaeresis, U+00D6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.times"><xsl:text>×</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- multiplication sign, U+00D7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Oslash"><xsl:text>Ø</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter O with stroke = latin capital letter O slash, U+00D8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ugrave"><xsl:text>Ù</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with grave, U+00D9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Uacute"><xsl:text>Ú</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with acute, U+00DA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Ucirc"><xsl:text>Û</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with circumflex, U+00DB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Uuml"><xsl:text>Ü</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter U with diaeresis, U+00DC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.Yacute"><xsl:text>Ý</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter Y with acute, U+00DD ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.THORN"><xsl:text>Þ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin capital letter THORN, U+00DE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.szlig"><xsl:text>ß</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter sharp s = ess-zed, U+00DF ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.agrave"><xsl:text>à</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with grave = latin small letter a grave, U+00E0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.aacute"><xsl:text>á</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with acute, U+00E1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.acirc"><xsl:text>â</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with circumflex, U+00E2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.atilde"><xsl:text>ã</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with tilde, U+00E3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.auml"><xsl:text>ä</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with diaeresis, U+00E4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.aring"><xsl:text>å</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter a with ring above = latin small letter a ring, U+00E5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.aelig"><xsl:text>æ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter ae = latin small ligature ae, U+00E6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ccedil"><xsl:text>ç</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter c with cedilla, U+00E7 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.egrave"><xsl:text>è</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with grave, U+00E8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.eacute"><xsl:text>é</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with acute, U+00E9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ecirc"><xsl:text>ê</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with circumflex, U+00EA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.euml"><xsl:text>ë</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter e with diaeresis, U+00EB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.igrave"><xsl:text>ì</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with grave, U+00EC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iacute"><xsl:text>í</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with acute, U+00ED ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.icirc"><xsl:text>î</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with circumflex, U+00EE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.iuml"><xsl:text>ï</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter i with diaeresis, U+00EF ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.eth"><xsl:text>ð</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter eth, U+00F0 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ntilde"><xsl:text>ñ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter n with tilde, U+00F1 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ograve"><xsl:text>ò</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with grave, U+00F2 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.oacute"><xsl:text>ó</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with acute, U+00F3 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ocirc"><xsl:text>ô</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with circumflex, U+00F4 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.otilde"><xsl:text>õ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with tilde, U+00F5 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ouml"><xsl:text>ö</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with diaeresis, U+00F6 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.divide"><xsl:text>÷</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- division sign, U+00F7 ISOnum -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.oslash"><xsl:text>ø</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter o with stroke, = latin small letter o slash, U+00F8 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ugrave"><xsl:text>ù</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with grave, U+00F9 ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.uacute"><xsl:text>ú</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with acute, U+00FA ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ucirc"><xsl:text>û</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with circumflex, U+00FB ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.uuml"><xsl:text>ü</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter u with diaeresis, U+00FC ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.yacute"><xsl:text>ý</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter y with acute, U+00FD ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.thorn"><xsl:text>þ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter thorn, U+00FE ISOlat1 -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.yuml"><xsl:text>ÿ</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- latin small letter y with diaeresis, U+00FF ISOlat1 -->
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Special Characters ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
-<xsl:template match="ch.ampersand">&</xsl:template><!-- ampersand -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.lsquot">'</xsl:template><!-- opening left quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.rsquot">'</xsl:template><!-- closing right quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ldquot">"</xsl:template><!-- opening left double quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.rdquot">"</xsl:template><!-- closing right double quotation mark -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.minus">-</xsl:template><!-- mathematical minus -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.endash">-</xsl:template><!-- endash -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.emdash">--</xsl:template><!-- emdash -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.ellips"> . . .</xsl:template><!-- ellipsis -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.lellips">. . . </xsl:template><!-- left ellipsis, used at the beginning of edited material -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.blankline">_______</xsl:template><!-- blank line to be filled in -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.percent"><xsl:text>%</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- percent sign -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.thinspace"><xsl:text></xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- small horizontal space for use between adjacent quotation marks - added mainly for LaTeX's sake -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.frac116"><xsl:text>1/16</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- vulgar fraction one sixteenth = fraction on sixteenth -->
-<xsl:template match="ch.plus"><xsl:text>+</xsl:text></xsl:template><!-- mathematical plus -->
-
-<!-- ==================== named templates ======================= -->
-
-<xsl:template name="xhtml-wrapper">
- <xsl:param name="document-type">undefined</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="filename">undefined</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="glossary-id-prefix"></xsl:param>
-
-<!-- <redirect:write file="{$filename}.htm">-->
- <redirect:write file="{$filename}.htm">
- <xsl:fallback>
- <xsl:text>xhtml-wrapper: Cannot write to filename: "</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$filename" /><xsl:text>.htm"</xsl:text>
- </xsl:fallback>
-
- <html xml:lang="en-UK" lang="en-UK">
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <head><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <title>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" />
- <xsl:text>: </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='illustration'">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Ilustración </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Illustration </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="I" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" /></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </title><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <meta http-equiv="Content-type" content="text/html; charset=ISO-8859-1" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <meta name="robots" content="noindex,nofollow" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <link rel="stylesheet" href="main.css" type="text/css" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </head>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:comment>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='copyrights']" />
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text> Publicado por </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> Published by </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/publisher[1]" />
- <xsl:text>. </xsl:text>
- </xsl:comment>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <body>
- <xsl:attribute name="text"><xsl:value-of select="$text-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="bgcolor"><xsl:value-of select="$background-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="background"><xsl:text>bckgrnd.gif</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="link"><xsl:value-of select="$link-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="alink"><xsl:value-of select="$alink-color" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:attribute name="vlink"><xsl:value-of select="$vlink-color" /></xsl:attribute>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <div id="title"><img src="title.gif" width="550" height="100" border="0" align="middle" usemap="#imagemap"><xsl:attribute name="alt"><xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" /></xsl:attribute></img></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <div id="body"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:choose>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ top-level ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='top-level'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='blurb']" />
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/creator[@class='long']" />
-
- <hr />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/description[@class='publication']" />
-
- <p>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Fecha de Publicación: </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Publication Date: </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/day" />
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 1">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de enero de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>January</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 2">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de febrero de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>February</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 3">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de marzo de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>March</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 4">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de abril de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>April</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 5">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de mayo de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>May</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 6">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de junio de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>June</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 7">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de julio de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>July</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 8">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de agosto de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>August</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 9">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de septiembre de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>September</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 10">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de octubre de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>October</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 11">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de noviembre de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>November</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:when test="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/month = 12">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'"><xsl:text>de diciembre de</xsl:text></xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise><xsl:text>December</xsl:text></xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Invalid Month</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="/gamebook/meta/date[@class='publication']/year" />
- </p>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='license-notification']" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ toc ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='toc'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Índice de Contenidos</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Table of Contents</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:variable name="title-page">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Página Principal</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Title Page</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <li><a href="title.htm"><xsl:value-of select="$title-page"/></a></li><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:for-each select="/gamebook/section/data/section">
- <li>
- <a><xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title[1]" />
- </a>
- <xsl:if test="data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' or @class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:for-each select="data/section[@class='frontmatter-separate' or @class='mainmatter-separate']">
- <li>
- <a><xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select ="meta/title[1]" />
- </a>
- </li><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:for-each>
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
- </li><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:for-each>
- </ul><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ second-level-frontmatter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='second-level-frontmatter'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ third-level-frontmatter-separate ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='third-level-frontmatter-separate'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h3><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ second-level-mainmatter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='second-level-mainmatter'">
- <div class="mainmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ third-level-mainmatter-separate ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='third-level-mainmatter-separate'">
- <div class="mainmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h3><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ second-level-glossary ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='second-level-glossary'">
- <div class="mainmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="alpha-bar">
- <xsl:with-param name="alpha-bar-id-prefix"><xsl:value-of select="$glossary-id-prefix" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ third-level-glossary-separate ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='third-level-glossary-separate'">
- <div class="glossary"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h3><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="alpha-bar">
- <xsl:with-param name="alpha-bar-id-prefix"><xsl:value-of select="$glossary-id-prefix" /></xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ second-level-numbered ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-<!--
-
-The following automatically generated section list requires that the
-title of each section be a simple number.
-
--->
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='second-level-numbered'">
- <div class="numbered"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:variable name="base-section-number" select="number( data/section[1]/meta/title ) - 1" />
- <p>
- <xsl:for-each select="data/section">
- <xsl:if test="position( ) mod 10 = 1">
- <b><a><xsl:attribute name="name"><xsl:value-of select="position( ) + $base-section-number" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select="position( ) + $base-section-number" />
- <xsl:if test="not( position( ) = last( ) )">
- <xsl:text>-</xsl:text>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="position( ) + 9 <= last( )">
- <xsl:value-of select="position( ) + 9 + $base-section-number" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:value-of select="last( ) + $base-section-number" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:if>
- </a><xsl:text>: </xsl:text></b>
- </xsl:if>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="@id" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" />
- </a>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="position( ) mod 10 = 0">
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text> </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </p>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ third-level-numbered ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='third-level-numbered'">
- <div class="numbered"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h3><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h3><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div>
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ footnotes ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='footnotz'">
- <div class="backmatter">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <!-- No particular reason to code title here -->
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <!-- Generate list of footnotes -->
- <xsl:for-each select="//footnotes/footnote">
- <div class="footnote">
- <!-- will the list always contain the closest ancestor first? -->
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-section"><xsl:value-of select="ancestor::section[position()=1]/@id" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-marker"><xsl:number count="footnotes/footnote" from="/" level="any" format="1" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-idref"><xsl:value-of select="@idref" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="*[1]">
- <p>
- <xsl:text>[</xsl:text>
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="$footnote-section" /><xsl:text>.htm#</xsl:text><xsl:value-of select="$footnote-idref" /></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select="$footnote-marker" />
- </a>
- <xsl:text>] </xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:text> (</xsl:text>
- <xsl:call-template name="section-title-link" />
- <xsl:text>) </xsl:text>
-
- <xsl:apply-templates select="child::* | child::text()" />
- </p>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="*[position() != 1]">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- </div>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- <!-- Backwards compatibility... needed? Probably not. -->
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ second-level-backmatter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='second-level-backmatter'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:apply-templates />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ map-adjusted ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='map-adjusted'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:for-each select="data/* | data/text()">
- <xsl:variable name="map-illustration-alt-text">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>mapa</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>map</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <!-- duplicated stuff here, no good way to avoid this while retaining backwards compatibility -->
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width-adjusted"><xsl:number value="386" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height-adjusted"><xsl:number value="$illustration-height * $illustration-width-adjusted div $illustration-width" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <div class="illustration"><div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width-adjusted" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height-adjusted" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-href">maplarge.htm</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrl-width">31</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrr-width">33</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-alt-text">[{$map-illustration-alt-text}]</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><br />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
- <xsl:when test="self::illref and @class='html'">
- <xsl:for-each select="id( @idref )">
- <xsl:if test="contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width-adjusted"><xsl:number value="386" /></xsl:variable>
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height-adjusted"><xsl:number value="$illustration-height * $illustration-width-adjusted div $illustration-width" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <div class="illustration">
- <div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width-adjusted" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height-adjusted" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-href">maplarge.htm</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrl-width">31</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrr-width">33</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-alt-text">[{$map-illustration-alt-text}]</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><br />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div>
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ map ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='map'">
- <div class="frontmatter"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <h2><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/title" /></h2><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:for-each select="data/* | data/text()">
- <xsl:variable name="map-illustration-alt-text">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>mapa</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>map</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <!-- duplicated stuff here, no good way to avoid this while retaining backwards compatibility -->
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="self::illustration and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <div class="illustration"><div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-href">map.htm</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrl-width">31</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrr-width">33</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-alt-text">[{$map-illustration-alt-text}]</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
- <xsl:when test="self::illref and @class='html'">
- <xsl:for-each select="id( @idref )">
- <xsl:if test="contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <div class="illustration">
- <div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-href">map.htm</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrl-width">31</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrr-width">33</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-alt-text">[{$map-illustration-alt-text}]</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <xsl:call-template name="navigation-bar" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div>
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ illustration ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:when test="$document-type='illustration'">
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-width" select="instance[@class='html']/@width" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-height" select="instance[@class='html']/@height" />
- <xsl:variable name="illustration-src" select="instance[@class='html']/@src" />
-
- <h3>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Ilustración </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Illustration </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- <xsl:number count="illustration[@class='float' and contains( $use-illustrators, concat( ':', meta/creator, ':' ) )]" from="/" level="any" format="I" />
- </h3><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <div class="illustration"><div align="center"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:call-template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-width"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-width" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-height"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-height" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="illustration-src"><xsl:value-of select="$illustration-src" /></xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrl-width">31</xsl:with-param>
- <xsl:with-param name="brdrr-width">33</xsl:with-param>
- </xsl:call-template>
- <br /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </div></div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <p class="caption"><strong><xsl:apply-templates select="meta/description" /></strong></p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:when>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ error ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:message>
- <xsl:text>xhtml-wrapper: Cannot process document of type "</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$document-type" />
- <xsl:text>".</xsl:text>
- </xsl:message>
- <p>
- <xsl:text>xhtml-wrapper: Cannot process document of type "</xsl:text>
- <xsl:value-of select="$document-type" />
- <xsl:text>".</xsl:text>
- </p>
- </xsl:otherwise>
-
- </xsl:choose>
-
-<!-- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ footer ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -->
-
- <xsl:call-template name="process-footnotes" />
-
- <p class="copyright"><xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/rights[@class='copyrights']" /></p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" /><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- <map name="imagemap" id="imagemap">
- <area shape="rect" coords="0,0,99,99" href="http://www.projectaon.org/" alt="Project Aon" target="_top" />
- <area shape="default" href="title.htm">
- <xsl:attribute name="alt"><xsl:apply-templates select="/gamebook/meta/title[1]" /></xsl:attribute>
- </area>
- </map>
-
- </body>
-
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
- </html>
- </redirect:write>
-
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template name="process-footnotes">
- <xsl:if test="footnotes/footnote">
- <div id="footnotes"><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <xsl:for-each select="footnotes/footnote">
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-idref" select="@idref" />
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-id" select="@id" />
- <xsl:variable name="footnote-marker"><xsl:number count="footnotes/footnote" from="/" level="any" format="1" /></xsl:variable>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="*[1]">
- <p>
- <xsl:text>[</xsl:text>
- <a href="#{$footnote-idref}" name="{$footnote-id}"><xsl:value-of select="$footnote-marker" /></a>
- <xsl:text>] </xsl:text>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="child::* | child::text()" />
- </p>
- </xsl:for-each>
-
- <xsl:for-each select="*[position() != 1]">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="." />
- </xsl:for-each>
- </xsl:for-each>
- </div><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </xsl:if>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template name="navigation-bar">
- <xsl:variable name="table-of-contents">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Índice de Contenidos</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Table of Contents</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:variable>
- <div class="navigation">
- <table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
- <tr>
- <td>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="meta/link[@class='prev']">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:apply-templates select="meta/link[@class='prev']/@idref" />
- <xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:attribute>
- <img src="back.gif" width="150" height="30" border="0">
- <xsl:attribute name="alt">
- <xsl:value-of select="id( meta/link[@class='prev']/@idref )/meta/title" />
- </xsl:attribute>
- </img>
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <img src="left.gif" width="150" height="30" border="0" alt="" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </td>
- <td><a href="toc.htm"><img src="toc.gif" width="150" height="30" border="0" alt="{$table-of-contents}" /></a></td>
- <td>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="meta/link[@class='next']">
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href">
- <xsl:value-of select="meta/link[@class='next']/@idref" />
- <xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text>
- </xsl:attribute>
- <img src="forward.gif" width="150" height="30" border="0">
- <xsl:attribute name="alt">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="meta/link[@class='next']/@idref = 'sect1'">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Sección 1</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Section 1</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:value-of select="id( meta/link[@class='next']/@idref )/meta/title" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:attribute>
- </img>
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <img src="right.gif" width="150" height="30" border="0" alt="" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </td>
- </tr>
- </table>
- </div>
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template name="alpha-bar">
- <xsl:param name="alpha-bar-id-prefix"></xsl:param>
-
- <p class="navigation">[<a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}a.htm">A</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}b.htm">B</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}c.htm">C</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}d.htm">D</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}e.htm">E</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}f.htm">F</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}g.htm">G</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}h.htm">H</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}i.htm">I</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}j.htm">J</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}k.htm">K</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}l.htm">L</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}m.htm">M</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}n.htm">N</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}o.htm">O</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}p.htm">P</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}q.htm">Q</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}r.htm">R</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}s.htm">S</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}t.htm">T</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}u.htm">U</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}v.htm">V</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}w.htm">W</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}x.htm">X</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}y.htm">Y</a> <a href="{$alpha-bar-id-prefix}z.htm">Z</a>]</p><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-
-</xsl:template>
-
-<xsl:template name="illustration-framed">
- <xsl:param name="brdrl-width">32</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="brdr-height">32</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="brdrr-width">32</xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="illustration-alt-text">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>ilustración</xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>illustration</xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:param>
-
- <xsl:param name="illustration-width"></xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="illustration-height"></xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="illustration-src"></xsl:param>
- <xsl:param name="illustration-href"></xsl:param>
-
- <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <tr>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrtpl.gif" width="{$brdrl-width}" height="{$brdr-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrtp.gif" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$brdr-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrtpr.gif" width="{$brdrr-width}" height="{$brdr-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </tr><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <tr>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrl.gif" width="{$brdrl-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td>
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$illustration-href">
- <a href="{$illustration-href}">
- <img src="{$illustration-src}" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" align="middle" border="0" alt="{$illustration-alt-text}" />
- </a>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <img src="{$illustration-src}" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" align="middle" border="0" alt="[{$illustration-alt-text}]" />
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrr.gif" width="{$brdrr-width}" height="{$illustration-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </tr><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <tr>
- <xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrbtl.gif" width="{$brdrl-width}" height="{$brdr-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrbt.gif" width="{$illustration-width}" height="{$brdr-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- <td><img src="brdrbtr.gif" width="{$brdrr-width}" height="{$brdr-height}" align="middle" alt="" /></td><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </tr><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
- </table><xsl:value-of select="$newline" />
-</xsl:template>
-
-<!--
- A "subroutine" to generate a link to the current section, with the section title (expanded with "Section " in case of a numbered section) as link text.
--->
-<xsl:template name="section-title-link">
- <!-- will the list always contain the closest ancestor first? -->
- <xsl:variable name="section-title">
- <!-- numbered or not? -->
- <xsl:if test="ancestor::section[position()=1]/@class='numbered'">
- <xsl:choose>
- <xsl:when test="$language='es'">
- <xsl:text>Sección </xsl:text>
- </xsl:when>
- <xsl:otherwise>
- <xsl:text>Section </xsl:text>
- </xsl:otherwise>
- </xsl:choose>
- </xsl:if>
- <xsl:apply-templates select="ancestor::section[position()=1]/meta/title[1]" />
- </xsl:variable>
-
- <a>
- <xsl:attribute name="href"><xsl:value-of select="ancestor::section[position()=1]/@id" /><xsl:text>.htm</xsl:text></xsl:attribute>
- <xsl:value-of select="$section-title" />
- </a>
-</xsl:template>
-
-</xsl:transform>
Project Aon Git Repositories / project-aon.git / commitdiff